End of Year Edition www.thescsucollegian.com MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2009
OUR 96th YEAR
ISSUE 6
The Coast Guard offers lucrative careers and salaries even during college By Dervedia Thomas Editor in Chief Money, lots of money, leadership experience, and an early retirement with a more than ample pension; these are all the advantages of joining the U.S Coast Guard according to Rear Admiral Steve Branham, but what about the military aspect? The long periods away from home, constant traveling and most of all the danger? These issues were addressed in the Career Center’s seminar on Leadership on Dec 2 in the K.W Green Student Center. The Admiral along with SC State alumna Christy Rutherford who is a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Coast Guard, spoke with students about the leadership opportunities available with the Coast Guard, the excitement and fulfillment that their jobs bring and the compensation that begins soon after joining including, money for tuition and books; a $30 000 a year salary for three years while in college along with full medical and dental. Additionally, students will have a guaranteed job after college and a pay increase to $54,000 four months after college that can be increased to
$85,000 after 5 years and $100 000 after 10 years. Aside from just the money, Branham explained to The Collegian that the Coast Guard gives persons leadership experience that enables them to assume top positions, making them more competitive that their peers. “The Coast Guard offers pretty heavy responsibility at an early age,” he said. “At age 24, I was in charge of a 95 ft patrol boat with a crew of 17.” The Admiral who will retire next summer says he is expecting to assume a top position in a major corporation because the Coast Guard enabled him to have high level experience as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), as well as management experience leading search and rescue operations, counter drug missions and port safety and migrant interdiction operations. Rutherford also has also acquired an impressive resume since graduating from SC State. The Coast Guard paid her tuition to go do her MBA as well as go to Culinary school. She has also conducted counter drug patrols in the Caribbean, capturing drug smugglers SEE COAST GUARD PAGE 3
Senate votes against SC State KING
Will the Pedestrian Campus Solve Parking Issues? By Jonathan White Managing Editor Parking is the source of alot of problems here at South Carolina State University. Some student’s say it’s preventing them from getting to classes on time and parking fines are putting a dent in their wallets. “I’ve accumulated 600 dollars worth of tickets since I’ve been here at STATE,” said Senior Sports Communication major, Romeo Edwards. “It may be my fault because I didn’t purchase a parking decal, but what’s the point when there is never a place to park.” On SC State’s campus, students say there simply aren’t enough parking spots for all of the students, and its $6.00 to park off campus. “Something needs to be done so that there is adequate parking on campus, maybe a new parking lot,” said Senior
P.E.S.C major, Terrell Harmon. Despite all of the parking problems, Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Charles Smith feels that there may be a solution. If you haven’t already heard, SC State may be implementing a Pedestrian Campus in the near future. The procedures involve restricting movement of automobiles in certain areas of the campus, creating detours or just creating an entire parking lot for students. “Though there hasn’t been much planning for the Pedestrian campus, I feel like its a really good idea,” said Smith. In an updated Collegian poll of 100 students, ony 27 percent felt that this is a good solution SEE PEDESTRIAN PAGE 3
Photo by Rolondo Davis/University Photographer Rear Admiral Steve Branham speaking at SC State’s Career Center’s seminar on Leadership on Dec 2 in the K.W Green Student Center.
By Dervedia Thomas Editor in Chief SC State’s Student Senate voted 18-1 against implementing a Mr. SC State. According to Senator-at-Large Chassidy Hinton, the senators expressed reservations about implementing the position because of the additional cost to be incurred for a new King and his court. The senators estimated a budget of $12 000 for Mr. SC State and $650 for each class King for attire alone. Official debate and voting for the position began at the Oct 7 Student Government Association’s full body meeting which resulted in a student vote of 48-34 in favor of the new position. Hinton said however that the senate is looking at alternatives which may include an official escort for Miss SC State. The Student senate is comprised of five members of each class, two members of the International Student Association and two members from the Leadership council.
The Collegian’s Most Controversial Stories for 2009 The Collegian has had a very successful year for news. We discussed taboo topics like homosexuality at SC State, gave faculty a voice to express their concerns and provided the news about campus crime that you need to know to make more informed decisions. We don’t do it for mere controversy, knowledge is power and a more informed student body can make wiser decisions. In reverse order, here is a re-cap of the most controversial stories for 2009.
By Dervedia Thomas Editor in Chief
5. Gay at SC State I promise you if we were at another university like Claflin or Hampton, you would never see this article. Gay at SC State was a two part series that allowed students speak out about they way they are treated on campus. Students interviewed were candid about they way they are stared at, made fun of, and stereotyped because of their sexuality. “The name calling is truly annoying,” said one of the students interviewed. “I feel as if we are all adults therefore we should
conduct ourselves as such. Even though a name does not define who I am [derogatory name calling]; it is just that I want to shake them and say grow up!” Students also spoke about controversial issues like gay marriage, men on the “down low,” religion and “coming out.” In the fall of 2009, Unity a new organization designed to eliminate stereotypes associated homosexuals, and to promote awareness of HIV/AIDS and encourage testing was established at SC State.
4. Light Skin in an HBCU The fact that students who are light-skinned would actually be at the receiving end of discrimination at SC State was shocking to many including those who believed that only darker skinned persons were discriminated against. Students explained that they have been called Light Bright, Highlighter, High yellow, Red Bone, Mulatto, Light Skinned-ed, “See Through” and Transparent since attending SC State; behavior, they said, they would have expected at a playground or even at high SEE CONTROVERSIAL STORIES PAGE 4
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The Collegian • MONDAY DECEMBER 7, 2009
Is this December Graduation the Last one?
Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Joyce Blackwell who is responsible for commencement says there is no truth to the rumor that the December 2009 Commencement is the last and assured The Collegian that SC State will continue to have December graduations.
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Take SC State's Customer Service Survey Here’s how:
Report to Belcher Hall fourth floor to complete the registration process even if you have full financial aid or a scholarship. 9am to 5pm daily.
1) Go to www.scsu.edu 2) Click on Current Students 3) Click on Customer Service Survey for either Undergraduate or Graduate Students 4) Enter your email address and password to log on to the survey 5) Complete the survey and click on Submit
Registration Steps – Belcher Hall 1. Clear all “Holds” that will stop registration 2. Check Financial Aid Status – BULLDOG CONNECTION or Belcher Hall 3. Check Housing and Meal Plan 4. Enroll or Waive Health Insurance - www. studentinsurance.com 5. Academic Advisement – Obtain Alternate PIN Immediately – Academic Departments/Advisors 6. Assessment of Fees 7. Tuition Pay Plan https://tuitionpay.salliemae.com/tuitionpay/tpphome. aspx?scs 8. If applicable, Pay Balance Due – Cashier’s Office – 108 Crawford-Zimmerman 9. Complete Your Validation of Enrollment – Bulldog Connection
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“WE WANT YOU” SC State University Is Currently Filling Positions For The Television Show, “A NEW STATE OF MIND” Orangeburg, S.C.-The Office of University Relations and Marketing recently completed the first season of the SC State University television show, “A New State of Mind.” The primary purpose of this show is to entertain and to inform the citizens of South Carolina about the positive attributes of an institution built upon a legacy of excellence. Currently airing in Charleston, S.C., Greenville, S.C., and Orangeburg, S.C., “A New State of Mind,” may also prove to be a strong recruitment tool for potential
students of SC State. Therefore, our primary target audience will continue to be potential students, the parents of potential students, alumni of SC State, and you, our current students. We realize how significant your role will be to ensure that “A New State of Mind” will be a success. While we have already garnered high ratings in our current markets, our future success is contingent upon your participation. Therefore, if you are tenacious, organized, and if you
are willing to commit to a project that will exemplify SC State in the best possible light, then you are invited to join our team. We are currently recruiting writers, producers, make-up artists, photographers, and hosts. If you are interested, please send an e-mail to adawkins@scsu.edu indicating your area of interest and the names of two on-campus faculty or staff references, including their contact information. Please note that there are only a certain number of individuals that will
be allowed to fill each position and we must determine the best candidates. All potential hosts must audition. Once we receive your names, you will be contacted with all of the necessary information. We must receive your names no later than Wednesday, October 14, 2009. Join us in promoting SC State University. Join us in our efforts to continue building upon our legacy of excellence.
SC State’s Bowling Alley Re-opens SC State’s Bowling Alley re-opened with a night of fun, food and fanfare after being closed for maintenance. The alley will be open from Monday to Thursday from 6pm to 10pm and on Fridays from 6 to 8pm. Fridays after 8pm will be by appointment only. Students with ID pay $3, faculty and staff $4 and the general public will pay $5. The Alley also offers a special Cosmo night with disco lights and music by appointment only. For more information contact the department of Student Life and Leadership at 536-7057
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CAMPUS NEWS The Collegian • MONDAY DECEMBER 7, 2009
Pedestrian Continued from Front Page
Photo by Rolondo Davis/University Photographer L-R SGA President Zachary Middleton, VP for Student Affairs, Dr. Charles Smith, Career Counselor Kristal Hutchinson , Rear Admiral Steve Branham, Career Counselor Sherry C. Mack , Miss SC State Zuri Stackhouse and Interim Director Joseph Thomas at SC State’s Career Center’s seminar on Leadership on Dec 2 in the K.W Green Student Center
Coast Guard Continued from Front Page intending to transfer illegal goods into the United States, coordinated and responded to maritime emergencies, responded to Hurricane Katrina, and ensured port safety and security in Houston. Rutherford is now a congressional fellow on the U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. As a result of this experience, she says she gets several job offers outside of the Coast Guard, all making over $150 000 a year. But what about the danger of search and rescue missions, responding to hurricanes and intercepting drug smugglers and illegal immigrants? What about the long periods away from home. How does one maintain a family? “Our jobs are inherently dangerous,” she explained. “But we don’t place ourselves in danger every day, rarely do our people die in the line of duty.” Branham concurred. “When you serve in the military you are going to see some danger,” he said, “Its a high stakes game, those drug smugglers are armed, but our boarding team is always trained and prepared to deal with danger, there is even danger when we search for people who are in the water,” he continued. Rutherford also explained that people ask to go to
the Coast Guard’s ships in Iraq and Bahrain, they are not selected or ordered to go. More money is also paid for these assignments. In terms of time always from home, the Admiral said flexibility is a condition of employment. “There are challenges,” he said. “A lot of people spend significant time away from home. Bigger ships are gone half of the year and they spend the other half at home and then there are aspects [of the Coast Guard] where people [like Rutherford] go home every night.” He went on to explain that the Coast Guard prepares you for worldwide assignment. “One of the questions they asked me when I decided to be an Admiral is, are you prepared to go anywhere at anytime?” Both the Admiral and Commander Rutherford are grateful for the time they spent overseas and expressed extreme satisfaction with their jobs. “I’ve loved it,” said Admiral Branham and though he is retiring next summer says he is more than happy with his career. For more information on the Rear Admiral Branham’s visit, contact the Career Center at (803) 536-7033.
“Though the pedestrian campus is a great idea, I feel like it would limit parking for students who don’t stay on campus, just like there is a problem now,” said Campus Activities Board VP, Oxzavia Finley. Joining the 27 percent that are for the pedestrian campus, is SGA Vice President Tymon Graham who says he totally agrees. “I think the pedestrian campus will be a great addition to the school because of the health factor for students. Cars will be in a central location, so that when we have visitors, cars wont be so piled up, making the campus much better.” “We really want the Pedestrian Campus for the faculty, staff, and students so they can be able to move around without hesitation and can get away from having to watch out for cars,” Smith explained. “It will also limit noise on campus, giving the students more quiet and study time.” Smith also feels that implementing the project would give the University a more campus like atmosphere. He says it would also be great for security measures. Cars would be parked in one place, and without having a decal, parking time will be limited, for visitors. Though there are positives for the idea, the challenge comes in when trying to figure out where the Pedestrian Campus will be placed. The University would have to decide whether they want to buy land and expand the campus, creating budget problems. Agreeing with Smith, Sophomore Brianna Oates feels it is also a great idea. “Not only will it decrease hesitation and chances for people to get hurt, it will decrease the number of tickets on campus, including parking in the wrong places and loud music.” Despite all of this, Smith wants to students to be excited about the Pedestrian Campus, especially for students who want to seriously study on a quiet, campus like atmosphere. “Its best for students who want to move around freely, talk, and have fun. Its a chance for more green space,” said Smith. Though most students would not prefer parking a mile away from their classes, in light of mother nature, the Pedestrian may be coming in the near future.
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CAMPUS LIFE The Collegian • MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2009
The Collegian’s Most Controversial Stories for 2009 Continued from Front Page school, but not at an institution of higher learning. The authors also cited the historic source of the divide in the African American community; the difference in treatment of the lighter skin house slaves and darker field slaves. The story was picked up by Blackcollegewire, a website that selects the best HBCU newspaper articles. Several blogs also posted this article as a discussion thread. Comments from readers were long and included historical quotes showing that lighter skinned slaves had it more difficult in many circumstances than darker slaves, because they were accepted by neither the white slave masters nor the dark skinned slaves. On campus the article had mixed reactions. One of the authors was even Photo by Zia Felder/The Collegian told by a student that they were not Authors of “Light Skinned in an HBCU” the ones who have it hard; it is dark Chassidy Hinton (left) and Jernai Ellis skinned people. The purpose of the article was in no way to decipher which complexion has it harder, it was merely to share the story of these students, so that the student body can have a greater knowledge of what it is like to walk in another person’s shoes.
3. Omegas Face Hazing Allegations This story received far more hits online than controversial stories about other fraternities; however the “buzz” was not quite as frenetic. Before writing this story, several of the other Student Media staff members were worried about Greeks taking revenge on the organization. I am happy to say that this has not been the case. Comments online were a little more balanced than other stories. Some said that The Collegian should stay out of the business of Greek organizations while others decried the act of hazing itself. The article reported that the Xi Psi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. was given cease and desist orders from their national fraternity because of hazing allegations. Sixth district adviser for the chapter, Octavio Miro, confirmed that the allegations existed and also said that hazing has no place in any organization, but admitted that some young people believe that you have to engage in this behavior to become a member. Miro continued by saying he was appalled by that kind of behavior both on the part of the alleged giver and those who choose to accept it.
2. Faculty discusses a vote of no confidence in SC State’s leadership The campus buzzed less than 24hours after this story was posted online. A vote of no confidence in the university’s leadership is definitely serious
business and the story was picked up in the Times and Democrat two days later. Faculty members were angry. Their senate president who co-chaired the meeting said that was ‘talk” of an 18 day furlough because of low enrollment numbers and budget cuts. The website hits were low, but the article was copied and pasted throughout the campus [mainly among faculty and staff.] Two days later at the Board of Trustees meeting, faculty members as well as students were in attendance to listen to the president’s presentation to the board. It was clear that the board was not pleased with the way the Faculty’s meeting was publicized in the media, but addressed their concerns and even delayed a decision on furloughs until after President George E. Cooper met with faculty and staff to discuss the matter. Cooper, who said he thought he had been inclusive, called a general assembly for all faculty and staff the next week and solicited feedback after communicating that his administration was considering a 10 day furlough. The furlough days were eventually Photo by Rolondo Davis/University Photographer decreased to 7 days President George E. Cooper addressing faculty and staff at on and began during Oct 7. Thanksgiving week.
1. Alphas Told to Cease and Desist. By far the most controversial and most commented on story for 2009 was “Alphas told to Cease and Desist.” Copies of The Collegian reached as far as Claflin University and the Claflin student newspaper staff even told us that they had never seen an article as explicit as that before. The article raised questions about the line between privacy and freedom of the press and exactly how secret ‘secret societies” should be. While the article was designed to expose both sides of the conflict, several readers commented that the article was one-sided and The Collegian was even called “Trash and Dirt” by one reader. The article was a report on “cease and desist” orders given to the Beta Delta Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc following an event held by the organization in Harmon Park on March 23. The university’s administration accused the group of having an illegal probate at Harmon Park that attracted a large crowd with no security. The fraternity maintained that they did not have a probate; it was a birthday party held off campus, because the university cancelled their event at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial center without notice, even thought they booked the facility since December of the year prior and informed the university that they had a different timeline set by their National organization. Although the fraternity is “off the yard,” the Alphas continue to do community service work in keeping with their mission.
Most Shocking News for 2009 Woman attacked by chimp (AP) A US woman who was attacked by a 90kg chimpanzee revealed her heavily disfigured face on television on Wednesday, saying she is blind and has to eat through a straw, but isn’t angry. “I don’t even think about it,” Charla Nash said on a recent episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show. “And there’s no time for that anyways because I need to heal, you know, not look backwards.” Winfrey removed Nash’s hat Photo courtesy z.hubpages.com and veil to reveal her face, which Charla Nash’s face disfigured by Chimp was swollen and damaged beyond recognition. She had a large scar near the bottom of her face and a large piece of skin where her nose had been. The February 16 attack occurred when the animal’s owner, Sandra Herold, asked Nash, her friend and employee, to help lure the animal back into her house in Stamford, Connecticut. The chimpanzee ripped off Nash’s hands, nose, lips and eyelids Nash told Winfrey that she is not in pain, but can’t breathe through her nose and has to eat through a straw. She said she doesn’t touch her face very often. Nash said she didn’t remember anything from the attack and doesn’t want to. “I want to get healthy,” she said. “I don’t want to wake up with nightmares.” Nash’s family has filed a $US50 million ($53.7 million) lawsuit against Herold, saying she was negligent and reckless for lacking the ability to control “a wild animal with violent propensities.”
South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford Admits Affair, After Unexplained Trip COLUMBIA, S.C. — Gov. Mark Sanford’s tearful confession that he quietly disappeared from the state for five days to rendezvous with his lover in Argentina has shattered his marriage and dimmed his oncebright political future. The Republican Sanford famously told his staff last summer that he was “hiking the Appalachian Trail” Sanford is now facing the possibility of impeachment for his actions.
Kanye West Crashes VMA Stage
SC Gov. Mark Sanford
Kanye West infamously interrupted country-pop sweetheart Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech the MTV VMAs and said that Beyonce deserved to win. According to MSNBC, West he wrote on his blog later that evening: “I’M SOOOOO SORRY TO TAYLOR SWIFT AND HER FANS AND HER MOM. I SPOKE TO HER MOTHER RIGHT AFTER AND SHE SAID THE SAME THING MY MOTHER WOULD’VE SAID. For her part, Swift called the evening “interesting.”
Rihanna and Chris Brown - A Romance gone wrong
The world was shocked by news and gory images of a battered Rihanna at the hands of fellow pop star Chris Brown on Feb 8. The attack occurred in Los Angeles’ Hancock Park neighborhood as Brown drove a rented sports car. She said it was triggered when she saw a text message on his phone from another woman and confronted him about it. A search warrant affidavit filed in the case stated that Brown hit, choked and bit Rihanna and tried at one point to push her from the car. During the beating, the singer said she had no idea how it (AP) The New York Post apologized would end: “That’s all I kept thinking the whole time, ‘When is it for a cartoon said by some to going to stop? When is it going to stop?’” compare President Barack Obama to Brown was sentenced to five years’ probation, six months of coma violent chimpanzee gunned down munity labor and a year of domestic violence counseling after he by police. pleaded guilty to felony assault. The tabloid’s statement came after Brown, 20, has apologized to fans and has said he has repeatedly two days of protests by civil rights apologized to Rihanna for the attack. campaigners and others - but the The New York Post cartoon that created controversy in paper said it would not apologize to its Feb 2009 long-time detractors, who it accused of exploiting the image for revenge. The newspaper posted an editorial on its website saying the cartoon was Perhaps the biggest story of the year was the meant to mock the government’s economic stimulus bill, but “to those who death of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The were offended by the image, we apologize”. singer died this past June at age 50. Michael’s The piece was posted hours after 200 people chanting “Boycott the Post! Shut death was a huge loss to everyone, but his legacy it down!” marched in front of the paper’s office, saying the cartoon echoed will forever live on. racist stereotypes of blacks as monkeys. According to media reports, although the late singer’s death has been officially ruled a homicide, police investigating the case say it could be several more months before any charges in the homicide are filed. The late King of Pop Michael (AP) WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama accepted a South Carolina It has been reported that due to the complex Jackson Republican’s apology for shouting, “You lie!” during his speech to Congress, nature of the investigation and the large amount of and House Democratic leaders showed no interest in sanctions against Rep. evidence to sift through, including medical data that has required the help of Joe Wilson. outside experts, prosecutors don’t expect to file any charges in the 50-year-old Wilson stunned the president and his colleagues with his outburst. pop icon’s death before 2010. Infuriated Democrats briefly considered sanctioning the four-term Jackson’s personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, is the main suspect in the congressman, but decided early to look beyond it. Though stunned and visibly furious at the interruption, Pelosi said she opted case, according to investigators he injected Jackson with the powerful surgical anesthetic propofol prior to his death. Coroner’s officials have said that Jackson not to gavel down Wilson on the spot. Obama, she said, was right to pitch right back into his speech and not “give it any more attention than it deserved.” died from “acute propofol intoxication,” and the presence of lethal levels of that drug in his system combined with other sedatives led to a declaration that his death was a homicide.
New York Post apologizes over Obama chimp cartoon
King of Pop’s death stuns the World
Obama called a liar by Rep. Senator
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NATION & WORLD The Collegian • MONDAY DECEMBER 7, 2009
FAMU SGA Buys Buses for $450,000
WSSU Alumni Protest During Homecoming
By Kendra Anderson Black College Wire
By Tiffany Gibson Black College Wire
The Florida A&M Student Government Association recently purchased two charter buses for recruitment trips and other SGA activities. According to an official news release from the Office of Communications, the buses cost $450,000 and were funded by the 2008 Activities and Service Carry Forward Funds once it was approved by the FAMU Board of Trustees. The personalized buses, displaying the FAMU logo and an enormous rattler colored with orange and green, each seat 56 passengers and will allow SGA its own mode of transportation alleviating the cost of renting buses when traveling with students. The recruitment team has used the new transportation already when it traveled to Tampa for a recruitment fair, and for recruitment activities during the recent 30th Annual Florida Classic in Orlando. SGA Officials, FAMU Connection, Presidential Ambassadors, FAMU Royal Court and Representatives from the FAMU Office of Student Affairs make up the recruitment team. Dean Henry Kirby, associate vice president of student affairs, said in a press release that the buses would also promote FAMU as SGA travels to different areas in and out of Florida. “FAMU is a brand, and to have these bright buses pulling into cities in North Carolina, Alabama and Photo courtesy www.famu.edu even across Florida will increase the One of FAMU’s SGA buses visibility of FAMU as we continue to recruit the best and brightest students,” Kirby said. FAMU students were able to see the new buses as they parked alongside the Set. “I had an opportunity to get on one of the buses when they arrived on campus and I was just in awe,” said Brandon Hill, a third-year philosophy student from Lake City. “I think they will be a wonderful addition. The buses stand out when they are parked, so I know that while traveling on the interstate, they will have a great impact.” Kendra Anderson writes for The Famuan, the Florida A&M University student newspaper, which originally published this article.
What Holds Africa Back? By Charity Jones Black College Wire While growing up in Kenya, June Arunga was troubled: What has gone wrong in Africa? Why is it so poor? To answer those questions she was forced to answer this one: Where does wealth come from? Arunga, 27, spoke last recently at an event sponsored by N.C. Central University’s University College. Contrary to many African economists, Arunga, a graduate of the University of Buckingham in Great Britain, does not blame globalization or a lack of resources for Africa’s problems. Arunga argues that legal structures that breed corruption and over regulation are the problem. Arunga says that economic liberalization and free trade will promote African entrepreneurship. “What should be encouraged is the fundamental right of people to own land and the products of their labor, which are then recognized by the courts, and can be exchanged at the market,” said Arunga. Arunga’s economic thinking has been influenced by her documentary work, specifically the 2004 British Broadcasting Corporation production, “The Devil’s Footpath.” The film, which covers a 5,000 mile voyage across the African continent, covers war zones, mining towns, refugee camps, and more. Arunga put her economic concepts into practice when she co-founded Black Star Lines, a banking service and payment network that small vendors can operate from their cell phones. “You have to come with innovative ideas ... not just for your area but worldwide,” said Arunga. In her speech, Arunga discussed the importance of free trade and the value of the American free enterprise system. According to Arunga when people trade something of value for money, a foundation of economic development is created. Arunga said nations must be open-minded when they view the world because there are “six billion different views of the world.” She said she wanted people to dare to challenge their own thinking. “Make your life count for something, don’t be a clone of other people, dare to challenge your own thinking” she said. Charity Jones writes for The Campus Echo, the North Carolina Central University student newspaper, which originally published this article.
During Winston-Salem State University’s Homecoming on Friday, Oct. 30, approximately 500 alumni, students and staff attended a “Call To Awareness, Action, Accountability” to address their concerns about the decisions made by Chancellor Donald J. Reaves that affect Winston-Salem State and the community. Victor Bruinton, president of the WSSU National Alumni Association, said he organized the “Call” because Reaves had been unresponsive to him and the Alumni Association. “I requested a meeting [on behalf of the Alumni Association] with Chancellor Reaves and sent a letter of concern before deciding to hold a call to action,” Bruinton said. In the letter [see Grievance Letter] sent Oct. 28, a lawyer from Tharrington Smith LLP outlined some of the alumni’s grievances. Reaves said that he was aware of the event a week in advance. “I’ve been in higher education since 1977, and I have been at universities where protests are common. I encourage people to protest that’s their right to protest,” he said. “Freedom of speech is one of the most cherished freedoms that we have, and they should speak out if they want to. That is why we have the free speech zone on this campus.” During the “Call” alumni circulated a flier titled “Chancellor Reaves’ Report Card: Initial Priorities “He” set for WSSU.” According to the flier, Reaves failed seven of the eight priorities and was given an incomplete for one. The alumni gave Reaves a grade of F for the first priority listed: “Improving Retention and Graduation Rates.” During an interview with the student newspaper, The News Argus, Bruinton said that with all the things going on today a student graduating within four years is not always obtainable. “It is important for the University to keep track of students graduating within four years, but they should really focus on graduation rates for those students who graduate within six years,” Bruinton said. “UNCCH, NC State and NC A&T all put more emphasis on the six-year graduation rate. “Sometimes classes are only offered in the fall semester, and if you are a student with a spring graduation your graduation date may be changed because of class availability.” Reaves said graduation rates are measures of the percentage of students who graduate from the University within four or six years. “I have only been here two years,” Reaves said. “It’s impossible for me to have a class under me that we have begun to measure. “The first class I admitted was fall 2008. My first four-year graduation rate will be in 2012, and 2014 for six years. I can’t be held accountable for the graduation rate.” Reaves said all this is about Division I athletics. He said people who are unhappy with the decision to move back to Division II protest about the decision, conjure up all sorts of things, and attack the process. “There was no problem with the Alumni Association before that decision was made,” Reaves said. Bruinton said there is still time for change when it comes to the Division II decision. “The Division II decision will not be finalized until the committee comes in April,” Bruinton said. “There is still something that can be done.” The alumni gave Reaves an F for his ability to increase fundraising. Reaves said, “Last year in a economic recession our fundraising total was only down I believe four percent, which I believe was the best performance of all the UNC-systems. “It’s interesting they [alumni] would raise the issue of fundraising.” Reaves continued to explain alumni fundraising for athletics. “The transition to Division I is in its fifth year,” he said. “Over that time period the total raised for athletics is $942,000. Of that total only $300,000 has come from alumni, which is to say the alumni did not support the athletic program. It’s as simple as that,” he added. “That’s an average of $60,000 a year. There are some alumni who are generous and support this University, but if you want this thing so badly you have to step up, and you have to pay for it, and that was not done.” Bruinton said when the alumni try to implement fundraising initiatives they are met with opposition. “The school will not release information from the University databases that has the year the alumni graduated, their permanent address, phone numbers and e-mail. “The University said they see the alumni as competition, which does not make sense when all the money raised is going to the same place,” Bruinton said. Tiffany Gibson writes for The News Argus, the Winston-Salem State University student newspaper, which originally published this article.
Proposal to merge HBCUs in Mississipi draws fire (AP) JACKSON, Miss. — Gov. Haley Barbour’s plan to merge Mississippi’s three historically black universities has created a tense atmosphere in a state saddled with a violent civil rights past and a decades-long legal battle over the historic under funding of those schools. At Jackson State University, students have turned to Twitter and Facebook to gather signatures on a petition to block the move proposed by the Republican governor. A half-dozen students attended a state College Board meeting Thursday expecting some discussion about the proposal, but there was none. “I personally believe they undermined the uniqueness of the black colleges and how far we’ve come with the little resources we have,” said Marissa Simms, a 20-year-old JSU student. Many of the nation’s public historically black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, were founded more than a century ago. Mississippi’s own Alcorn State University in Lorman was the country’s first land-grant black college. The state’s other historically black campus is Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena. Nationwide, there are 42 public HBCUs and dozens more private institutions. White House officials and representatives of national organizations say the colleges play a vital role in an initiative by the Democratic Obama administration. Under Barbour’s plan, no campuses would close but Alcorn State and Valley would be merged into Jackson
State. Each of the smaller schools is roughly 100 miles from Jackson. Barbour said the merger would save money by reducing administrative costs and eliminating academic duplication. He also wants to consolidate Mississippi University for Women with nearby Mississippi State University.
The governor said the restructuring could save the state $35 million out of a nearly $5.5 billion budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1. The black university presidents have made clear they want to remain independent. “The governor’s proposed budget
cuts will change the face of higher education in Mississippi for decades,” JSU President Ronald Mason said in a statement. Alcorn State President George Ross said the university leaders didn’t find out about the plan until Monday. “We don’t have a lot of detail. We’re reacting to something without much of the knowledge to react to it,” Ross said. Some key lawmakers said they wouldn’t support the plan when the Legislature convenes in January. “I don’t think the House is going to give it much consideration,” said Rep. Cecil Brown, a white Democrat from Jackson. Rep. Adrienne Wooten, a black Democrat from Jackson, said all universities should be treated the same. “I only know there are certain universities that are having to come forward and prove why they should remain open. That’s not right,” she said. Barbour said a state with about 2.9 million residents can’t afford eight universities. He said Monday he’s not worried about appearing racially insensitive with his proposal. John S. Wilson, executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, questions Barbour’s rationale. Wilson said improving the campuses’ capacity to educate more students, not cost-
savings, should be the goal. Wilson said the president wants the U.S. to have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world by 2020. “In order to reach the 2020 goal, we’re going to need greatness from the HBCUs,” Wilson said. “Would this result in a great move in higher education for African-Americans in the state of Mississippi? Would it result in a great institution? I think that’s unclear.” Napoleon Moses, a vice president of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education in Washington, D.C., said Mississippi should follow Louisiana’s lead. He said Louisiana higher education officials are examining all the state’s universities and colleges, not just its three HBCUs. Moses called Barbour’s proposal an “insensitive recommendation devoid of critical data.” He also said the state has the “ugliest history of perpetuating a dual and unequal higher education system.” In 1975, Jake Ayers Sr. filed a lawsuit accusing Mississippi of giving more financial support to predominantly white schools. The state settled the lawsuit in 2002 and agreed to direct $503 million to the three historically black schools, collectively, over 17 years. Negotiations for the lawsuit settlement included discussions of merging Mississippi Valley State University with nearby Delta State University, a predominantly white school. Nothing came of those merger talks.
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VOICES
The Collegian • MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2009
Ask Lorpu: “Is my boyfriend too controlling?”
Q A
I really need your help! My boyfriend and I are deeply in love, but there is one problem. My boyfriend likes to control me. Whenever we prepare to go out he likes to view my clothing. If he does not approve, he will ask me to find something else. If I disagree he changes his mind about going out. What should I do? Why are men so possessive? I enjoy expressing myself through clothes; my boyfriend feels it’s too provocative. Should I change the way I dress for his comfort or just be me? -Confused
All men are not overly possessive and only you can make the decision whether to change or continue to “do you.” Call me old fashioned, but if my man did not approve of my outfit, then I would change it considering that it is the only problem in the relationship. You have acknowledged that this is the only problem; therefore I believe you all should come to a compromise. Although I do find it a little over bearing that he feels he has to approve of your clothing, but it makes me wonder why. Does he feel embarrassed because you are wearing provocative clothes? Does he try to control everything in your relationship, or is it that he does not want people thinking negatively of you because of your dress? I believe you should think these things through before making your decision. If it is that he is embarrassed by the way you choose to dress then ask yourself whether the relationship is worth altering your clothing? Others may say if he met you that way then there shouldn’t be a problem, but I disagree. I do recognize that this is not your husband, but I believe when one makes the decision to be in a relationship he/she is making their other half a priority, meaning one will consider their partner’s feeling when making decisions that will affect them both. If you come to the conclusion that he often tries to control everything in the relationship then you may need to take a step back, because that is not a healthy relationship. Often times controlling partners turn into abusive partners. On the other hand, maybe he is concerned that others may view you negatively and in an effort to protect you he comes off controlling. I am unsure of why you dress provocatively, but maybe you need to tone it down because there is a substantial differentiation in between being sexy and being risque. The best thing I can suggest is that you talk to him and try to get a better understanding of the reason for his actions; this will help you get to the bottom of the problem.
Are You Customer service still poor at SC State “Write” for News? By Jonathan White Managing Editor
JOIN US Conference Room 3 K.W Green Student Center 5367522
To work at SC State University, rudeness has to be one of the requirements listed for the job, because clearly the majority of our staff here are just that; rude, crude, and obnoxious. We all encounter rude people from time to time, like the driver who cuts into your lane on the road or the customer representative who’s less-than-eager to help. But which is worse? Should students have to deal with the everyday sarcasm and nonchalant attitudes of the “so-called staff ” who are here to help us? It’s pretty sad and ironic that most of my first semester here, all I’ve heard about is how to be professional in a work setting, but the University’s very own “workers” are the exact opposite. You call, you get no answer. Ask questions, receive sarcasm. It’s merely impossible to get a polite response. Whatever happened to the days where you could call a place, get an answer, and not receive the run around; with kindness. Those days are dead and gone at South Carolina State. One day as I tried to reach the Vice President of Admissions, I stumbled upon a rude and unprofessional secretary. I just had one question, but she made me want to hang up the phone. Not to mention, I got no where since. On another occasion, I had an emergency, and had to
call Campus Police. For one, I had to call three times, not to mention, after explaining my situation, which felt like a waste, these words were spoken to me, “help me, help you, and come to the office.” I just finished telling this “worker” that I felt threatened for my life, but she told me to help her. Okay, can somebody say slack. And this is what the University calls staff members? And do I even need to touch on financial aid? Words cant express the problems, “run arounds”, unprofessionalism, sarcasm, and rudeness that they give. Sometimes don’t you just want to say, “If you have to act like that, then don’t come to work.” Its really ridiculous, but true. And don’t get me wrong, its not all staff members, but too many, and one bad apple spoils the bunch. In other words, there are two kinds of rude people in this world; those who are tired of being at work, are just plain rude all the time, and can care less. Then there are those who have an occasional bad day and feel remorseful for their behavior. Which category does SC State fall into? SC State needs to really work on this problem due to the fact that this is a University and professional workplace, where jobs should be taken seriously. I guess Obama couldn’t motivate all to change. Until then, though, ignorance of what hurts others will remain widespread at South Carolina State University.
Acting ‘Ghetto’ in College thecollegian@scsu.edu LIT TERAE THESARUM EST
ESTABLISHED IN 1914 The Collegian P O Box 8124, 300 College St. NE South Carolina State University Orangeburg, SC 29117 Newsroom: 803-536-7522
STAFF Editor-In-Chief/News Editor Dervedia Thomas Sports Editor Marquita Chislom Copy Editor Jessica Teasdale Circulation Manager William Champy Jr. Staff Writers Calhoun Cornwell, Lavantai Wynn, Favel Mondesir, Moses O. Bell, Jonathan White, Jamika Harris, Nkosi Kennedy, Anthony Brooking, Simona Falana, LaCreatcia Adams Contributors Janique Francis, LouAnne Wilkes, Kyle Williams SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY President Dr. George E. Cooper Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement Dr. Jackie Epps Director, University Relations and Marketing Erica S. Taylor Adviser, Office of Student Media Rolondo Davis Associate Adviser, Office of Student Media Stephanie McDuffie The Collegian is a student produced newspaper under the direction of University Relations and Marketing at South Carolina State University. The newspaper is distributed free to all students, faculty and staff members at various locations on campus. Editorial views and letters submitted to the editor express the opinions of the respective writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of South Carolina State University nor those of The Collegian staff as a whole.
By Keona Prude Blackcollegewire While in college, you are bound to meet people from different backgrounds and cultural settings. One image becoming more apparent to me is the “hood” or “ghetto” representation. On a daily basis, I hear someone saying “I’m from the streets,” or “I’m from the hood.” Being from the hood is not a problem. However, when you cannot differentiate between what’s appropriate behavior in a college setting because you are stuck in your hood mentality, that’s when it becomes an issue. I, myself, grew up in an inner-city ghetto, but upon entering college, I had to remove that frame of mind in order to be successful. Walking around campus, I hear several conversations that I deem unsuitable for young African American students in college. I hardly ever hear topics that will stimulate our minds, unless I am in class. Often, I find myself irritated by the conversations my friends have.
They have no redeeming value or substance. Also, when I use certain words, they look at me confused and baffled. They often say, “Stop using those big words.” Since we are in college, I feel as if we should have accumulated an extensive vocabulary, but many of my peers have not. When I ask why they do not know certain words, they say things like “we don’t talk like that in my hood.” However, what they need to realize, is they are not in their hood anymore. We are in a place for higher education. In addition, I find myself correcting my friends on their word usage; they use the wrong word or use it completely out of context. It makes them sound ignorant, which can be very annoying. Not only is speech an issue, but attire is as well. Norfolk State University often has VIP speakers and other important people on campus. Many students miss opportunities of their life because of how they look. No, you should not judge a book by its cover, but you should not look like you just got out of bed. When
students get involved in school and semi-professional activities, certain things need to be cut out. Extemporaneous hair colors, tattoos, piercings and club clothes should be at a minimum. I am all for unique expression, but there is a time and place for everything. Several students complain about dressing up for presentations because they feel like it is a waste of time. I have even heard people say they do not own business clothes. When I dress up, I feel a sense of pride; I feel good about myself. Not only does it look nice, it makes me feel important and professional. Where you came from should not be the determining factor of how you act, think or speak. Unfortunately, that seems to be case these days. We, as college students, need to grow up and realize where we are trying to go in life. We cannot accomplish certain things by acting certain ways; we are in college to practice for our future. Keona Prude writes for The Spartan Echo, the Norfolk State University student newspaper, which originally published this article.
True Story By Moses O. Bell Staff Writer
Questioning the legitimacy of reality because she is too beautiful not to be an extravagant figment of my imagination. Beautiful is the only word that comes to mind when I see her face or smell her scent or feel her presence. She is a wild flower amongst weeds in the valley. The most interesting being that I have encountered thus far. I was truly blessed to become acquatinted with such a regal queen. She is unique in every way, that’s why I have no choice but to stay and rap to her and inquire about her thoughts. She teaches me about life with each opinion that she verbalizes. The way she walks speaks to me in such a way that I am no longer a functional member of society for that moment. The world offers no variety of her kind. A strong woman that stands up for her beliefs. Hey love, will you be mine? I must know before I continue with such a mundane way of life that seems to be stuck on repeat on a daily basis. Eternity will be twice as long if I never tried to make her life complete by igniting her passion with my poetry. I cant be selfish with my words when I continue to witness a lady with such integrity and poise, unlike anything that man has ever seen on mother earth. Style is effortless and her soul is pure as the inspirational eye candy that makes a man write original words at 4:20 in the morning. Let me whisper sweet “somethings” in your ear, no, bypass that, let me communicate directly with your soul before we allow life to take its toll on such an emotional anomaly. The phrase “love at first sight” doesn’t even begin to explain how I feel about this lovely angel. She is the epitome of elegance on an infinite level. In a society of assimilation, she’s my radical rebel. Beautiful is the only word that comes to mind when I see her face or smell her scent or fell her presence. True Story.
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SPORTS
The Collegian • MONDAY DECEMBER 7, 2009
Vick makes triumphant return ATLANTA (AP) — Michael Vick took the snap, sprinted to his right, made a quick cut to the left, broke a tackle and dove into the end zone. He wasn’t done, either. Turns out, No. 7 still rules Atlanta. Making quite a return to the Georgia Dome, Vick accounted for a pair of touchdowns — one running, the other passing — and basked in the cheers of his former home as the Philadelphia Eagles thoroughly dominated the short-handed Atlanta Falcons 34-7 on Sunday. The Eagles (8-4) pulled two games ahead of the reeling Falcons (6-6) in the NFC wild-card standings, bringing a little more clarity to the playoff race. But most of the attention was on Vick’s first game in Atlanta since he went off to prison for dogfighting. Vick, a three-time Pro Bowler with the Falcons and one of the NFL’s most dynamic players before his stunning downfall, ran for a 5-yard touchdown in the third quarter, his first score since Oct. 15, 2006. With the game out of hand, he slipped a 5yard scoring pass to Brent Celek early in the fourth, his first TD throw since that final season with the Falcons. By then, all the fans who had showered Vick with boos when he came in for a couple of snaps on Philadelphia’s opening possession had long since gone. Those who were left — many of them wearing No. 7 jerseys — were chanting “We want Vick! We want Vick!” Deciding that two touchdowns was enough, Philadelphia coach Andy Reid let third-string quarterback Kevin Kolb finish out of the game, much to the chagrin of those fans who hoped the ex-Falcon would get even more playing time. Still, the day was everything — and then some — that Vick could’ve hoped for. He played sparingly
in his first nine games with the Eagles, but coming back to the city that once hailed him as its biggest star finally gave him a chance to shine. Vick went 2-for-2 passing, setting up his touchdown throw with a 43-yard completion to Reggie Brown, and ran four times for 17 yards. The Falcons sure could’ve used their former quarterback. Five offensive starters, including quarterback Matt Ryan, were Eagles quarterback Michael Vick rushes or a short gain in the first quarter today. sidelined by injuries. That was simply too much to overcome, (AP/JOHN BAZEMORE) even with the Eagles missing a couple of key offensive players, running back Brian though it lifted a huge weight off his shoulders. With the boos now drowned out by thunderous cheers, Westbrook and receiver DeSean Jackson. Atlanta scored on the final play to avoid a Vick hopped off the turf, pulled away from his teammates and headed toward the stands. shutout. He tried to flip the ball into the crowd, but was Before the game, Vick chatted with Falcons owner Arthur Blank and several former teammates, thwarted by the net being raised for the extra including receiver Roddy White. When it was time point. The ball deflected back into the hands of fullback Leonard Weaver, who turned toward Vick, to get down to business, No. 7 led the Eagles out of the tunnel, served as one of the captains for the coin apparently to ask if he wanted to keep it. Already heading toward the Eagles bench, Vick toss and got a chance to take a couple of snaps on just pointed toward the stands. Weaver managed to Philadelphia’s very first drive. After that, all he did was watch — until the Eagles get it to a fan on the second try. Vick did keep the ball after his TD pass. And when faced third-and-1 at the Atlanta 5 on the opening drive of the third quarter and leading 13-0 in a game it was done, he lingered on the field for interviews, they had dominated. Trotting on the field to those then trotted off with both arms raised before blowing familiar boos, Vick lined up in a shotgun and pulled kisses in all directions. Chris Redman, filling in for Ryan, had a miserable off the sort of play that was so familiar when he game after leading the Falcons to a last-second win played for the home team. Spotting the hole and taking off, Vick darted the week before. Redman was picked off twice, into the end zone for a touchdown that looked as one of them returned 83 yards for a touchdown by Sheldon Brown.
Saints stay perfect, beat Redskins 33-30 in OT (AP) LANDOVER, Md. — Oh, what a charmed life the unbeaten New Orleans Saints are leading these days. There’s surely no other way to explain the shanked punt that turned into a 29-yard gain, the Drew Brees interception that somehow morphed into another touchdown for Robert Meachem, or the fact that the Washington Redskins missed a 23-yard field goal that would have sealed a victory with less than 2 minutes to play. Therefore, it seemed inevitable that Brees, operating with no timeouts, would lead an 80-yard, game-tying drive that took just 33 seconds and tied the game with 1:19 remaining. And, of course, in overtime, the Saints benefited from a replay reversal and won Sunday’s game 33-30 on Garrett Hartley’s 18-yard field goal 6:29 into the extra period. The victory improved the Saints to 12-0 and clinched the NFC South, although it was a far-from-perfect performance. The defense gave up 455 yards to the Redskins, and the offense had to make up a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Washington (3-9) blew a late fourth-quarter lead to lose for the third straight week. Brees finished 35 for 49 for 419 yards with two touchdowns and one
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) is sacked by New Orleans Saints Scott Fujita (55) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, in New Orleans. Dave Martin / AP Photo
interception for the Saints, who won a sub-40 degree game for the first time since 1995. Meachem caught eight passes for 142 yards and scored the late game-tying touchdown, a 53-yarder wide open over the middle that made the score 30-30. Meachem also scored a fluke firsthalf touchdown by forcing a fumble after an interception. After Meachem’s late touchdown, the Saints had a chance to win in regulation after Jonathan Vilma’s
interception, but Hartley — playing his first game of the season in place of benched veteran John Carney — was well short with a 58-yard field goal attempt on the last play of regulation. The Redskins won the toss and had the ball to start overtime, but Mike Sellers fumbled when he was upended by Chris McAlister after making a catch — a turnover that was only verified after a meticulous replay reversal — giving the Saints the ball at the Washington 37. Brees needed only seven plays to march New Orleans to the 1 before Hartley made the game-winning kick. Jason Campbell completed 30 of 42 passes for 367 yards and three touchdowns with one interception for the Redskins. Campbell frequently picked on first-round draft pick Malcolm Jenkins, and muchmaligned 2008 second-rounders Devin Thomas and Fred Davis had big games once again. Thomas had seven catches for a career-high 100 yards and two touchdowns, and Davis had five receptions for 53 yards and a score. The Redskins’ season-high yardage output came against Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, who ran Washington’s defense from 2004-07 and was passed over for the head coaching job when Joe Gibbs
retired. Players on both teams expected the fiery Williams to try to punish his old team relentlessly, but his players frequently missed tackles and couldn’t shut the Redskins down when New Orleans was trying to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter. Suisham’s missed field goal bailed the Saints out, but it wasn’t the first big New Orleans break of the game. Meachem’s first-half touchdown was an especially unforgettable play. Facing third-and-26 at the Redskins 44, Brees backpedalled under pressure and threw a desperation pass deep over the middle toward Jeremy Shockey in triple coverage. Kareem Moore dived over Shockey’s back to make an interception, rolled over, got up and ran 14 yards before Meachem simply took the ball away from an upright Moore and started running down the sideline — highstepping 44 yards for the team’s ninth return touchdown of the season, tying the game at 17 with 22 seconds left in the first half. Just as strange as that touchdown was a play that set it up. A few plays earlier, when the Saints punted from their own 30, Thomas Morstead shanked the kick so badly that it hit Washington’s Kevin Barnes flush on the back near the sideline. New Orleans recovered at the Redskins 41.
Flagler Lead Bulldogs Over Rams 63-60
‘Bama vs Texas in title game
By SC State Sports Information
Sr., Jason Flagler
Texas players celebrate with the trophy following their NCAA college football Big 12 Conference championship game against Nebraska, Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, in Arlington, Texas. Texas won 13-12. Amy Gutierrez / AP Photo (AP) Alabama and Texas get to play in a national title game. For TCU, Cincinnati and Boise State, the math doesn’t quite add up but they still get a spot in a BCS bowl. The quirky, often imperfect method of choosing a national champion succeeded Sunday in matching top-ranked Alabama against No. 2 Texas in the BCS championship — a Jan. 7 game between undefeated teams that will bring together Heisman Trophy hopefuls Colt McCoy of the Longhorns and Mark Ingram of the Crimson Tide. And, of course, it also produced plenty for the little guys to get upset about. No. 3 TCU, No. 4 Cincinnati and No. 6 Boise State also finished undefeated. All three were included in the BCS, but none will play for the title, which will renew the annual debate about college football’s way of determining the best team in the land. “If we were going to talk about fairness, the first thing we’d do is destroy that whole structure,” said Jay Coakley, a sociology professor who authored the textbook, “Sport In Society: Issues and Controversies.” “That’s the least fair thing in all of college sports. It doesn’t even pretend to be fair.” Seeking its first national title since 1992, Alabama opens as a 3-point favorite for the game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif.
WINSTON-SALEM, NC-Senior guard/forward Jason Flagler recorded his first double-double of the season with 13 points and 14 rebounds, while junior Darnell Porter chipped in 13 and freshman center Jodd Williams added 12 as SC State defeated Winston-Salem State 63-60 Saturday at the C.E. Gaines Center.
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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
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The Collegian • MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2009
Theatre Students Portray Hip-Hop Evolution Through Fashion By Blair Bevereaux Staff writer and photographer Thursday, December 3, 2009 the students of The History of Costume and Design held their annual fashion show. Calling the production held in Henderson Davis Theatre, a “Fashion Show,” would be a huge injustice to spectacle that was presented free of charge to the students of SC State. The production, Hip Hop Evolution: A Creative Journey into Fashion was directed by Elijah Corley, a professional theatre major at STATE. Most would remember Elijah from his variety show, The Corley Show, which took place last school year. Once again, Corley pulled out all the stops for this show with over an hour of original and theme appropriate costumes (created by Photo by Blair Devereaux/The Collegian the students of the class), fierce Debrika Clyburn and Edwin Hamilton models, a very humorous story line,
Photo by Blair Devereaux/The Collegian What is Hip-Hop without a Pimp, right? Theatre major Andre Kennedy is dressed The Pimp. The theatre students explored all the major characters in Hip-Hop music.
and plenty of music and dancing by both Ujima and Main Event to make one feel guilty for not having to pay to get in. Photo by Blair Devereaux/The Collegian The show was part of the student’s Evetta Shivers and Andre Kennedy dressed as Egyptian final exam for this class. Royalty to show the early roots of Hip-Hop.
Ninja Assassin
Is Drake ever going to release an album?
Blood, Gore and Good Fun By Nkosi Kennedy Sports Editor and staff writer If you see a ninja in a dark room, you’re already dead. That’s the grand message from the movie Ninja Assassin which opened November 25. This movie is about Rain (Raizo) an assassin for the Ozunu Clan. He’s one of their best, but rebels against them for killing his love. He recruits Mika Coretti (Naomie Harris) a Europol agent who knows too much about the clan. Together, the duo tries to take down the very clan that made Rain who he is. Now before we get into the good stuff, let’s discuss its flaws. If you’re looking for a movie like 300, this movie is not for you. The main character Rain can barely speak Eng-
PRECIOUS gives audiences food for thought
Photo courtesy http://swiperbootz.files.wordpress.com By India Lowry Staff writer Is rap’s newcomer Drake ever going to release an album? Canadian rapper Drake is one of the rising stars of rap music. His music has actual lyrical content unlike other newcomers Soulja Boy and The New Boys, Drake’s music is causing rap followers to do more than “Jerk” and “Bird Walk.” He has been featured on many of 2009’s hit singles ranging from artists like Mary J Blidge all the way to Lil Wayne. Drake is now signed to Lil Wayne’s label Young Money, but when is he ever going to release an album? The album was set to release in September of 2009; that date has come and gone, still no album and now it has been pushed back to a further date. “I don’t know, I’m hoping February, that’ll be a nice release month,” Drake said in reference to his alleged album. Drake announced on The Big Tiger radio show that the name of the album will be “Thank Me Later” but I believe a more appropriate name for this much anticipated album would be “Sorry for The Wait.”
lish so everything he says sounds flat like a tire. Mika isn’t much better being the damsel in distress. But don’t let all that fool you; this is a movie that you want to see. The action is just like the blood in this movie; beautiful and plenty of it. From the opening minutes to the very end, this movie gets your heart pumping. If you want a movie that will challenge your mind and make you think, this movie is not for you. But, if you want to be entertained with blood and gore for more then an hour, sit back and enjoy.
By India Lowry Staff writer The movie Precious is causing a stir in selected box offices around America. This movie has an all star cast that is compiled of Monique, Paula Patton, Mariah Cary, Sherri Shepherd and new comer Gabourey Sidibe playing the role of Precious herself. The movie is based on the novel Push and is set In Harlem in 1987 the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones a sixteen year old African- American girl born into a life no one could imagine. Her mother played by actress, comediane and late night talk so host Monique, is not only verbally, but physically abusive and continues to tell her daughter Precious that she is worthless every
Photo courtesy www.blackchristiannews.com day. In the movie, Precious makes it to the ninth grade with an embarrassing secret, she could not read nor write. When offered the opportunity to transfer to an alternative school “Each One/ Teach One,” she finally gets the chance that she’s been waiting for; the chance “to break through.” At this institution, her teacher played by actor Paula Patton, is the one person that believed in her and together they achieve what Precious once thought was impossible. This movie leaves its audience with this food for thought: “Life is hard. Life is short. Life is painful. Life is rich.. Life is....Precious.”
Fashion Paparazzi - Fall Photos and interviews by Charlotte Collins Fashion Editor
Tamara Cobin <<< Sophomore Charleston, SC Social Work major Q. Why did you choose to wear this outfit today? A. I just liked the fall colors and free flowing, relaxing feel.
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Jennifer Nowell <<< Grad Student Athens, GA Rehabilitation Counselling Q. Why was your inspiration for this look today? A. I read Cosmopolitan magazine a lot and get ideas. I just wanted to feel look a cosmo girl?
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