Thursday, March, 8, 2012 thehilltoponline.com
The Student Voice of Howard University
Vol. 95 No.42
est. 1924
Awkward Black Girl Comes to Howard by Odochi Ibe Assistant Copy Chief
Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor President and CEO of the National Urban League, Mark Morial addresses the crowd during the 2012 State of Black America Town Hall. Morial served as the stage moderator during the panel.
National Urban League Encourages Black Voter Mobilization at Town Hall Organization releases 2012 State of Black America Report. By Macy L. Freeman and Chief Managing Editor Civil rights organizations and activists came together in an effort to increase awareness of recent voting laws presenting challenges to the black community and other people of color during a forum on Howard University’s campus. “We are in the largest voting rights assault since the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965,” said Melanie Campbell, president of the National Coalition for Black Civic Participation, during the National Urban League’s State of Black America town hall Wednesday evening. According to the Urban League, the challenges making it difficult for people to vote include discriminatory ID requirements, arbitrary registration deadlines and limited voting hours. During the town hall, “Occupy The Vote To Educate, Employ and Empower,” the Urban league released its 2012 State of Black
INSIDE Washington Watch
Read up on last night’s event that addressed Super Tuesday. p.3
America report, which includes messages on black voter awareness, education reform and community empowerment. “Voting and civic participation is essential if we are to have a voice in education policy, college affordability, fixing our schools, early childhood education, and if we’re going to have a voice in jobs policy, whether we invest in infrastructure, whether we target urban communities,” said Marc Morial, president and CEO of the Urban League. “Our voice comes because we participate civically, so we have to occupy the vote.” The Urban League has been releasing State of Black America reports annually since 1976 and began holding release events for the reports in 2004. Morial said the report combines 300 data sets and that the organization’s chief economist, director of research, a small staff at the Urban League Policy Institute in D.C. and an outside econometrics firm worked to collect all of the data for the report. This was the organization’s second time releasing the report at Howard. Last year, their town hall discussion “Jobs Rebuild America: Putting Urban America Back to
Spring Break Guide Staying in D.C. for Spring Break? Check out some cool things to do while you’re here. p.4
Work” included talks about economic recovery and the future of American jobs. “I think one of the most important elements of last year’s State of Black America and our 12-point jobs plan is that President Obama included several provisions from our jobs plan in his American Jobs Act, so we had an impact on policy makers at the top level,” Morial said. “Second is the state like Ohio, where you had several state legislators who introduced the Ohio Jobs Bill, and that bill was mirrored off of some ideas in our 12-point jobs bill.” The recent report features an eight-point plan, which stresses the importance of equalizing school funding to close achievement gaps, expanding access to early childhood education and the continued need to expand the quality and compensation for teachers. Morial said by releasing these annual reports the Urban League seeks to influence the thinking, the policy and the ideas that members of Congress, state legislatures, mayors and local government and officials undertake.
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Davon’s Law
Read up on the legislation to protect international travelers in honor of a fallen Bison.
Issa Rae, the creator and producer of the hit series The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl never thought a video she put on YouTube would ever become popular. Gaining notoriety in the U.S. as well as Great Britain, she and cast members have been doing a college tour to speak with their fans. Students’ laughter could be heard throughout the Armour J. Blackburn Center as the two cast members of The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl came for a screening and panel discussion of the hit web series. Rae, who plays “J” and Tracy Oliver, the villainous “Nina”, answered student’s questions Wednesday evening about the inspiration and production of the show. The highly anticipated event was a long time in the making. Norkia Baker, the Associate Director of Student Leadership, Development and Service said that people were reaching out to Rae for a while, but were unsure of the procedures they needed to follow in order to bring her here. A graduate of Stanford Uni-
versity Rae said they were reaching out to universities and really wanted to come to an HBCU. “We have shouted out Howard a lot of times in the series because a lot of our guest stars have been alumni, Rae said. “Howard has shown us a lot of support hitting us up all the time on Twitter.” Ameena Green, senior film production major from Detroit said she likes the show because it portrays awkward moments that affect people and gives a different perspective on black women. “I want people to realize that black people can be relatable too,” Oliver said. “There is a sense when you watch mainstream television that the default always has to be white or you need a mainstream cast that has to be Eurocentric. I want awkward and normal to be the new cool.” The Howard University Office of Student Activities and several other organizations including the Undergraduate Student Association, California Club, and the School of Communications and College of Arts and Sciences student councils sponsored the event.
Arne Duncan Deputs Tool to Shed Light on Education Disparities By Macy L. Freeman and Lauren McEwen HU News Service
New findings show that several factors have widened the achievement gap for students of color in the United States. “Our work is all geared toward ensuring that the achievement gap closes, but without more information about where it exists, where opportunity is provided, how resources are being distributed, getting to our common goal is all the more difficult,” said Russlynn Ali, assistant secretary for Civil Rights during a
INDEX
CAMPUS................... p. 3 LIFE & STYLE............. p. 8 OPINIONS............... p. 10 MECCANISMS......... p. 11
Tuesday press conference in Founders Library on Howard University’s campus. U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Ali announced new findings from a data collection tool to help analyze the achievement gap in the U.S. education system. That tool, Transformed Civil Rights Data Collection, consists of self-reported information covering college and career readiness, discipline, school finances and student retention.
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WEATHER
Today: Cloudy High 70 Low 48 Friday: Partly Sunny High 54 Low 32 Saturday: Sunny High 48 Low 34
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The Hilltop Newspaper Maya Rhodan Editor-in-Chief Macy Freeman Chief Managing Editor Christina Downs Production Managing Editor Natalie Neilson Online Manager Jasmin Carnelus Campus Editor Noelle Jones Metro Editor Lauren McEwen Life & Style Editor Jordane Frazier Sports Editor Britney Wilson Opinions Editor Marquis Gibson Copy Chief Odochi Ibe Assistant Copy Chief Ayanna Alexander Copy Editor Angelique Gayle Copy Editor Jarondakie Patrick Copy Editor Khalea Underwood Copy Editor Terricka Johnson Photo Editor
Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Members of the audience during the State of Black America town hall included leaders of civil rights organizations, activists and community members.
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Journalist Jeff Johnson served as floor moderator during a panel discussion, which featured Professor Gregory Carr, activist and writer Kevin Powell and radio host Warren Ballentine. Ballentine spoke about the perception of wealth in the black community and encouraged wiser spending, while Carr spoke about younger generations and the influence of technology on literacy. During one of his opening messages, Morial stated that Vernon Jordan, former Urban league president and Howard alumnus, came to the conclusion that the State of Black America reports were necessary after seeing President Gerald Ford’s State of the Union address, which failed to mention urban communities. “It’s part of our determination
to bring our message to college campuses, bring our message to the next generation of leaders,” Morial said. A hard copy of the 2012 State of Black America report can be viewed on the Urban League’s website or purchased. The organization has launched an online election center at www.iamempowered.com to educate people about the voting guidelines in their respective state. Morial said the Urban league plans to continue to raise voter awareness through bus tours and working with other civic and faith organizations. The online election center gives people the opportunity to call a hotline if they need assistance getting a voter registration form. “The state of black America is the state of America,” he said.
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percent of the high school students in the sample and make up 12 percent of the students who don’t graduate. Discrepancies not only appear in the quality of education provided to students, but also in teachers’ salaries. Teachers in high-minority schools tend to be younger and less experienced. They are also paid less. In Philadelphia, teachers may be paid up to $14,000 less than one of their older counterparts. In New York, the discrepancy is $8,000. Duncan stressed the fact that this data is not being used to accuse administrators and school boards of discrimination and that the data collected needs to be studied further. Instead, he cites a lack of transparency, saying that officials and educators “would be shocked” to learn about the data. “I don’t think these are bad people,” Duncan said. “They just didn’t know how to handle a child that was struggling.” Ali added, “This is a call to action for all of us to study what’s happening – not enough to signal a violation of the Civil Rights Act.” While any complaints of civil rights violations will be investigated, the CDRC is to be used to improve struggling schools. Ali pointed out that the data examines schools that are “defying the odds” so that other schools can use their tactics to challenge the status quo. The CDRC data can be found online at ocrdata.ed.gov, and Duncan encourages people to check the site for updates. “No other issue holds greater promise for opportunities,” Duncan said.
Campus By Taylor-Rae Collins-Headley Contributing Writer
Roland Martin, journalist and political commentator, hosted a special three hour live broadcast of his TV ONE news show “Washington Watch with Roland Martin” in the School of Business auditorium on Super Tuesday. The broadcast was a collaboration between TV ONE, Nu Vision Media Inc., UStream.tv, and NewsOne.com and featured multiple panels and more than 30 panelists including Ben Jealous, president and CEO of the NAACP, Jeff Johnson, journalist and motivational speaker, Peggy Lewis, Howard University School of Communications broadcast journalism sequence coordinator, Rich Galen, conservative columnist and political commentator, and Howard University students Britney Wilson and Stephen T. Simpson. The purpose of the event was to discuss the Super Tuesday elections, an event in which 11 states held their GOP primaries to pick the next Republican presidential nominee, and what the results may mean for Barack Obama, the Democratic Party, the Republican Party, and the November election. As the results rolled in, the guests discussed issues such as Barack Obama and black voters, African Americans and the GOP, Obama and young voters, the
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role foreign policy will play in this election and the impact of religion. Throughout the night, the results of the primaries came in showing Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum neck in neck, with Newt Gingrich and Ron Paul trailing far behind. Though the room was half full, HU students came prepared and knowledgeable to comment on the black youth vote, how Obama can regain the same momentum in the 2012 election that he inspired in 2008, and what we are doing on Howard’s campus to get involved in our nation’s politics. “If you get involved at a young age, you know how to keep your leaders accountable,” Wilson said. “The honeymoon is over. We’re looking at his policies to know how they will impact us,” Simpson said. Krystal Leaphart, junior legal communications major and president of the Howard University Chapter of the NAACP, said that the NAACP at Howard University is pushing a lot of different initiatives as far as financial literacy, education, social and political issues. They are starting a Civic Engagement Coalition in conjunction with multiple organizations on campus so that every organization can play a role in civic engagement and make it relevant on campus. “We’re going to have the absentee ballots and the voter registration because we want to make sure that
Howard University is an involved, engaged, educated student body,” Leaphart said. Desiree Luckey, senior sociology major and D.C. governmental affairs coordinator for HUSA, spoke about Legislative Day on the Hill, a part of the HBCU summit sponsored by HUSA at Howard. Students from Howard, and other HBCUs that participate in the summit, will travel to the hill to meet with members of Congress and discuss financing and higher education with them i.e.-Howard’s role with federal appropriations. Students can get involved with Legislative Day on the Hill by emailing HUSAonthehill@ gmail.com for more information. Howard students who attended were interested in sharing what they took away from the event and why they attended. “I came tonight because I watch Washington Watch and I don’t really get into Republican issues being a democrat so I wanted to have this open forum and to hear ideas and be able to form what exactly is going on in the GOP.” said Sydney Brunson, junior public relations major, “I’ve really gotten some key points about being more motivated by what Jeff Johnson and Roland Martin had to say like is Obama going to be a moment or a movement, and I think it was a moment and we need to make it more into a movement.”
Photo by Terricka Johnson, photo editor Roland Martin and Howard University president Sidney A. Ribeau share a word on the current political state of America.
“Just sitting here is very informative. We can go home and tell people who aren’t as informed about these things. It would be better if this whole room was filled though,” said Joseph Perry, sophomore community health major. Roland Martin and Howard University President Sidney Ribeau explained why they wanted to have this event on Howard University’s campus and what role they think college students will play in this election. “We wanted to have this event in a public venue and be able to have students involved in the conversation. We had students from the
broadcast program helping us out and it gave them some real world experience,” Martin said, “We saw what young voters did in 2008, so I see the same thing happening in 2012 in terms of young folks stepping up, getting involved, and being the difference makers, it’s all a matter of them really getting engaged.” “Part of what we do at Howard is exposing our students and the community to issues of importance. We’re a platform for social, political, cultural issues throughout America and the entire diaspora,” said President Ribeau, “and what could be more important than this upcoming election.”
Howard Community Prepares to Celebrate Alumnus Guides Students to Hollywood, Shares Journey 145 Years at Charter Day Convocation Marking the 145th anniversary of Howard University’s approval signed by President Andrew Johnson on March 2, 1867, Charter Day Convocation will be held this Friday, March 9 at 11 a.m. in Cramton Auditorium. This year’s honorary speaker will be Kamala D. Harris, California’s Attorney General and a 1986 graduate of Howard University. The honorary event occurs each year to celebrate the founding of Howard University. One hundred and forty five years later, students and alumni continue to honor their prestigious university, standing by the motto “Veritas et Utilitas-Truth and Service.” For Dean Bryson, a first year graduate student in the history department, Charter Day is a time for him to personally commemorate and express gratitude for Howard University. “I am excited to go and attend to be in the spirit of Howard,” Bryson said. The honorary speaker, Kamala D. Harris, graduated from Howard University in 1986 and is most recognized for serving as the current District Attorney of California. She became the first African-American female Attorney General in the state of California in 2011. Among many other accolades, she has been listed in Newsweek as one of “America’s 20 Most Powerful
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Jasmin Carnelus, Campus Editor
Roland Martin Brings Awareness of Super Tuesday to Howard
“I am excited to attend and to be in the spirit of Howard.” -Dean Bryson 1st year Graduate Student
By Shanae Bass Contributing Writer
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The CRDC, compiled during the 2009-10 school year, is not only the largest study of its kind – with a sample representing 85 percent of American students – it is also the most detailed. Statistics were broken down by race and ethnicity, gender, disability and native language. It also focused on resource equity, access to and success in higher-level courses, retention rates, discipline and more. Part of the Department of Education’s research revealed disparities in disciplinary practices in the U.S. Education system. Findings show that African-American students, especially African-American boys, are more likely to be suspended or expelled from school than their counterparts. Although black students made up 18 percent of the students used in the sample, they made up 35 percent of students who have been suspended once, and 39 percent of the students expelled from school. “I have fought for such analysis for years given my personal and professional observation of the over-discipline of African-American boys,” said Illinois Congressman Danny Davis. Davis said the CRDC reveals that an opportunity gap still exists in American society. “The opportunity gap and school-to-prison pipeline are very real for students of color, students with disabilities, and students who are learning English—especially for the first time,” Duncan said. The report shows that while 55 percent of predominately white schools offer Calculus, 29 percent of high-minority schools offer the subject. Students who speak English as a second language constitute 6
Photo courtesy of kamalaharris.org California Attorney General and Howard Alumna Kamala Harris will deliver this years Charter Day Convocation address.
Women.” Lennex Cowan, a sophomore mathematics and Afro-American studies double major reflects on this Friday’s Charter Day Convocation and the speaker. “I want to hear the prominent leader in our community speak. To see someone black on that stage is sheer beauty in itself,” Cowan said. Sheena Hall, a graduating senior political science major, said that in the past Charter Day has been a motivating experience for those who attend but an even more
rewarding experience for underclassmen. Though she will not be in attendance this year, she encourages other students to attend. “In the past, I have always left Convocation feeling a hint of inspiration.” Rhea Warren, a freshman public relations major, thinks some students won’t attend because they don’t know about it. “I think some students may not be as informed as they should be,” Warren said. She recalled being informed about the celebration only as a requirement for her freshman seminar class. Even as some students will be missing out on this years Convocation, Bryson maintains his enthusiasm. “I’m really excited about just being there with the Howard community, faculty, staff and students celebrating another year at Howard University,” he said. As seats are limited, students and guests who wish to attend this year’s Charter Day Convocation can still RSVP at HUCDAYRSVP2012@gmail.com.
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By Rodney Holcombe II Staff Writer Students gathered in Childers Hall yesterday to hear the real scoop from alumnus David L. Johnson who successfully navigated his way to Hollywood as a writer, producer and actor. Johnson graduated from Howard in 2008 with a bachelor of arts in film production. While at Howard, Johnson became a member of Gentlemen of Drew Social Club, Campus Pals and other organizations. Once he completed his tenure here, he took on various jobs before enrolling in the American Film Institute, where is currently a student. Johnson began his presentation by showing the audience two of his short films, Fast Forward and In Arizona Amina. He then introduced what he called “an anti-panel discussion”, where students were given the opportunity to learn more about Johnson and the industry. Johnson stressed several points throughout the presentation to ensure that Howard students will encounter some of the same and even greater successes in the near future. He placed special emphasis on defining oneself, a deeper look inside the industry and how to make the Hollywood transition. He presented students with many helpful suggestions that are necessary to making it in this industry as well, such as joining a union. He also discussed the difference between
a manager and an agent, how to properly format a script through screenwriting programs, the logistics that really shape Black Hollywood, and the harsher realities that exist in the industry. Johnson asked the audience if they would accept a position the very next day as a background actor in a pilot show. Many students disagreed and were met with great surprise when Johnson showed a photo of himself as a background actor in ABC’s Desperate Housewives. He made the point that in order to be an actor, one must be willing to take on various roles. Leading role positions are ideal and the most sought after, however one must work diligently and steadfast to obtain such roles and positions. He later discussed his method for retaining ideas that he thinks about while on the go, or even at home. He makes it a point to carry a notebook around to jot down ideas for a possible story, and if that is not accessible, he suggests typing the idea down on one’s cellular phone. “If you think it has potential, it probably does,” Johnson said. Johnson left students hopeful for the future, however made it clear that, “success doesn’t just happen overnight.” Johnson will be at the School of Communications todaty to discuss and give further insight on graduate programs in film.
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Noelle Jones, Metro Editor metro@thehilltoponline.com
The Hilltop Guide: Spring Break in the DMV
-Compiled by Noelle A. Jones, Metro Editor and Brittany T. Epps, Staff Writer
The long nights of studying, chugging Redbulls feverishly, and watching the sunrise are finally dwindling as midterm season and ‘hell week’ are coming to an end. The days of sitting in class daydreaming about the beach or staring out of an airplane window are quickly subsiding. The hum drum of the professor’s voice is being muted by spring break anthems or by peace and quiet. Either way, the Hilltop is providing a guide for all of those spending the weeklong break in the district. Art exhibits, parties, shows, new restaurants, and three-day getaways are all ways to spice up your life and celebrate the sunshine to come in spring 2012. Nestle at National Harbor This secluded spot in National Harbor, Md. is home to beautiful resorts, a host of fine dining, family fun, romantic rides, and a crowd that can indeed party until the break of dawn. Looking out on the National Harbor sits the popular, five-star Gaylord Resort, which hosts two-floor Pose Ultra Lounge and Bar, said to be “the place to find your pose.” The harbor also has its own marina which offers cruises, stopping at D.C.’s famous monuments—along with fishing trips and water taxi rides. Make travels to the harbor a day trip or a weekend trip, with restaurants to please every flavor palette and a row of 12 specialty boutiques. This place is for those wishing to relax out on the water—or those seeking good eats, shopping, and adventure. For more information, visit nationalharbor.com
Pi(e) Day St. Stephens Church Celebrate national Pi Day on March 14 with slices of delectable selection of pies at a benefit for local community station, Radio CPR 97.5FM. It’s all-you-can-eat pie for just a few bucks!
Anthology of Booty Presents #b00tyCall Wonderbox Warehouse/Art Space Also on March 10, spend your night with DJ crew, Anthology of Booty—and whoever else is still in D.C.—as they pump out scandalous Global Booty Beats including dancehall, pirated Kenyan pop, no wave, Miami booty bass, reggaeton and funky disco. The fiesta is for 18-year-olds and up with $5 presale tickets through March 9 and $7 at the door.
The Dream The Fillmore, Silver Springs The self-proclaimed “Love King” will be performing at the Fillmore in Silver Springs on March 17. Tickets are $25. This is the perfect event to mellow out and enjoy some good R&B music before classes are back in session.
Cabin Retreat Deep Creek Lake Resort and Cabins Photo Courtesy of thecommunityfoundationpgc.org
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Constitution Ave (begins at 2 p.m.) Washington, D.C.’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade is March 11 on Constitution Avenue as a kickoff to the actual holiday. The procession will feature marching bands, floats, drill teams and young Irish-dance students, as well as popular restaurateur Cathal Armstrong in the Grand Marshall’s slot. Grab a beer— if you’re of age—and celebrate the Irish holiday!
The Black List: Photographs by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders National Portrait Gallery This AT&T sponsored photo exhibit includes 50 photographs of some of America’s most influential and powerful Black Americans in the fields of politics, business, civil activism, the arts, and athletics. Some of the featured photographs include those of Angela Davis, John Legend, Michael Lomax, Chris Rock, Kara Walker, and Melvin Van Peebles. On view until mid-April, Spring Break is
Become one with nature lodge, wine, dine, and sit under the stars at Deep Creek Lake, only three hours from the Metropolitan are. Deep Creek offers beautiful weekend cabin rentals nestled amongst blooming flowers, rivers, and streams. This getaway also offers an abundance of outdoor and indoor activities including water skiing, bumper boats, go carts, fishing, and wake boarding. Spend spring break in western Maryland soaking up the sun at ‘The Creek.’ For more information visit deepcreekresorts.com
the perfect time to check this out! The Black Keys Verizon Center Make this break rock! In support of their new album El Camino, blues-rock group The Black Keys will make a pit stop on March 9 in D.C. on the first leg of their U.S. tour. If you’re still in the nation’s capital, this is the perfect kickoff for spring break. Photo Courtesy of deepcreekresorts.com
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Graduate Assistant &
2012-2013
Resident Hall Staff Assistant Qualifications: Full-time validated graduate student. Must have a 3.0 GPA as a new graduate student and a cumulative 3.2 GPA as a continuing graduate student. Documentation of educational credentials required through submission of official academic transcripts. Degree from accredited institution. Letters of reference must be current and relevant to the qualifications for this position. 1.One year of relevant residential living experience in a college/university setting. 2.Must have supervised and administered programs directly to students.
Criteria: The following criteria, which are not the sole criteria used in the final hiring decision,
will be used to review the applications of those persons who meet the stated minimum qualifications and to select those qualified applicants who will be interviewed. Other information and observations made during the interview process may be considered in the selection process. 1. Evidence of leadership and management experience. 2. Evidence of experience working with student clubs and organizations. 3. Evidence of effectiveness in oral and written communication. 4. Evidence of ability to function effectively within, and contribute positively to, a diverse multi-ethnic, multi-cultural student population and campus environment within the Department of Residence Life. 5. Briefly describe what contributions you could bring to a learning-centered environment.
"We Need Good People Interested In Promoting Student Learning And Personal Development While Strengthening Their Leadership Skills."
Secure application online at www.howard.edu/residencelife complete and submit to the: Office of Residence Life 2401 4th Street, NW Washington, DC 20059
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The Division of Student Affairs presents
2012 Essay Competition
The Howard University Experience :
Positions in university residence halls
Due March 19, 2012 Before 3pm!!!
ESSAY CONTEST
HOWARD UNIVERSITY DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS OFFICE OF RESIDENCE LIFE
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$ 1,500
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$ 750 7KLUG 3ODFH
$ 350 The winners of the competition will be announced on Thursday, March 30th at the Inaugural Reception
Topic
It has been argued that alumni carry into the world the indelible imprint of their alma mater. Accepting this premise as a starting point, develop a cogent, thoughtprovoking essay in which you elaborate upon the topic, “How Would You Know a Howard University Graduate? How would he/she be different from all other graduates? Then discuss your idea of the ideal “Howard University Experienceâ€? that will develop this “distinguishedâ€? alumnus. You are not being asked to write a “researchâ€? paper that relies heavily upon secondary sources. This paper VKRXOG EH SULPDULO\ UHĂ HFWLYHÂłEDVHG XSRQ \RXU RZQ LGHDV DQG SHUKDSV \RXU HQJDJHPHQW ZLWK VHFRQGDU\ VRXUFHV XVHG RQO\ IRU FODULĂ€FDWLRQ DQG GHHSHQLQJ WKH reader’s appreciation and understanding of your ideas. You must strike a delicate balance.
Deadline & Eligibility
All Undergraduate students are eligible to enter. Essays can be sent electronically to ESSAYCONTEST@howard.edu. (VVD\V VXEPLWWHG LQ KDUG FRS\ PXVW EH EURXJKW WR WKH 2IĂ€FH RI WKH 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW for Student Affairs, Suite 201 in the Administration Building. ALL ESSAYS MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:00 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21, 2012.
)RU ,QIRUPDWLRQ RQ )RUPDW 7LWOH 3DJH DQG (YDOXDWLRQ 6WDQGDUGV 3OHDVH 9LVLW http://tinyurl.com/HUEssayContest or Call (202)806-2100
Rev. 12
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Life&Style
Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, and Ice Cube Discuss New Movie ‘21 Jump Street’ by Jasmin Carnelus Campus Editor
From 1987 to 1991, “21 Jump Street” told the story of a youthful police squad that often went undercover in high schools to investigate crimes. Twenty-one years later, actor Jonah Hill has brought the once popular television show to the big screen. Set to open March 16, Jump Street features Channing Tatum and Ice Cube. The Hilltop caught up with the stars to discuss the film and other topics. Hilltop: Jonah, what prompted you to want to make the TV show into a feature film? JH: I was aware of the cultural significance. I really loved the idea of getting to relive that part of your youth. Thinking you have all the answers and realizing you have none of the answers. Hilltop: Were there any characters that you were thinking ‘I want this person for this role’? JH: Cube was actually the only person we wrote the part for. He said yes because we wanted the guy who said “eff the police” to play the police captain. Other than that, we just got lucky that all of these other amazing people were willing to be in the movie. Hilltop: During the movie, some of your songs are played. Did you have any involvement in the music process? IC: I think they put it in because
Beauty by Montrelle Green Contributing Writer
Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum and Ice Cube star in ʻ21 Jump Street,ʼ a comedy based off the 80ʼs series.
I was in. They probably were like ‘we got Ice Cube in this movie, and he’s playing a cop. Let’s put an N.W.A. song in and mess everybody up. Hilltop: As an actor/rapper, what actors or musicians inspired you to follow this career path? IC: I never knew I was going to act, I really never knew I was going to do music at all. I was into sports--that’s what I thought I wanted to do. After ‘Boyz N the Hood’, I looked at people who had done both acting and music. I said to myself, if Frank Sinatra and Harry Belafonte can do it, I could do it too. Hilltop: How do you all prepare for movie roles? Are you a method actor, or does your approach vary? CT: It depends on the film.
I’ve never done full method acting. I want to probably try it at some point in my life, it’s just a lot and it needs to be the right character because it’s a lot to take on. It’s exhausting for the people around you. IC: I don’t do a lot of method acting because I think it’s silly. That means if I’m a drug head, I have to go get on drugs. I believe you can act and still hone your skills without having to be the character the whole day. Hilltop: You didn’t actually start off acting, how has it been transitioning into being an actor, and what made you want to act? CT: I was modeling before that and there’s no creativity on your side. You pretty much walk in, they take pictures and then you leave and all the art is on the other side of the camera. I got lucky and got a Pepsi commercial, it peaked my interest. I haven’t been doing anything else since. Hilltop: Given your rebellious background, how does it feel to play a police captain in the movie? IC: It feels cool, it ain’t no sweat. Hilltop: How has it been balancing a music/acting career and a family? IC: Challenging but fun. I think I have a pretty good balancing act. People kind of wait for you to fail when you’re trying to do more than one thing. The key is to be true to who you are.
Corner: Spring Nail Designs: The Trend That Fits Everyone
With spring quickly approaching , fashionista’s and beauty gurus of all ages, seek inspiration. From the most extravagant dresses to the smallest hair details, the perfect spring ensemble adds flair and finesse to virtually every part of the body, including the nails. Even though 44 percent of teenagers and 19 percent to 29 percent of adults bit their nails, according to psychologist Penny Donnenfeld, nail care and design trends are among some of the most fascinating and versatile; there’s something for everybody. Gel polish is one old development, which has garnered new popularity among natural nail fans. Using UV light technology, a special gel paint formula is designed to give customers the perfect manicure. Seniors, Jazsmin Watson-Booth and Karla McKenzie both enjoy using, Shellac, a new gel nail polish product by Creative Nail Design. Shellac is a gel polishing formula, which raves of having a mirror finish and extreme long lasting durability. For $20-$35 depending upon service location, ladies now have the opportunity to get perfect natural manicures, with nail color that lasts more than 2 weeks. Simi-
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Photo Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
Photo by Montrelle Green, Contributing Writer Bright nail polish, gel nails and 3-D acrylic nails and more this spring!
lar nail product companies such as OPI and Red Carpet both boast of having a gel product and have plenty of shades to choose from including glitter and shatter paints. Singers Keri Hilson and Rihanna fashioned long, sharp, cat-like nails in the fall. This nail trend involves the use of acrylic and acetone to create an artificial nail with a harder texture and extended
. Don’t Sleep: New Releases
Lauren McEwen, Life & Style Editor
durability. “With acrylic, the possibilities are endless,” said nail technician Emerald Green, “But if you don’t take them off right, your nails won’t come out the same.” Although acrylic powder is harmful to the human body if inhaled, after it has been “set” with the acetone, and dries in place, the product itself isn’t harmful. However, often nail professionals use tips, a plastic nail extension, which serves as a base for acrylic to set on. This extension is glued to the natural nail and must be removed very carefully. In order to preserve natural nail beauty and vitality, it is important not to wear one set of acrylic nails for more than 8 weeks, including any acrylic re-fill services. When it is time to remove the acrylic nails, the best way to ensure the least amount of damage is to soak them off in pure acetone, using a glass bowl, and then removing the plastic extensions with nail clippers. Acrylic can be used in 3-D methods to create flowers, cartoon characters and more. With regular nail maintenance, and careful removal, artificial nail application is a way anyone can express themselves artistically. With the perfect design, the lawyer, painter, dancer and physician can all carry a little of their own spring fashion wherever they go.
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lifeandstyle@thehilltoponline.com
Sports
THE HILLTOP | THURSDAY MARCH 8, 2012
Jordane Frazier, Sports Editor
e Week h t f o n o s i B
Compiled by Lauren McEwen, Life and Style Editor “Silent House” - March 9
Film
Inspired by true events, “Silent House” tells the story of a young woman named Sarah Murphy (Elizabeth Olsen) and her father’s horrifying experience at their family’s lake house. The story sounds a little familiar: as they settle in for the night, it becomes frighteningly clear that they are not alone. After Sarah’s father is attacked, she struggles to find a way for them to Open Road Films/ escape. Thing is, the creepy Photo Courtesy of Liddell Entertainment figure stalking Sarah around the house seems to be more familiar with the place than she is. Shot in real time, and packed with Olsen’s screams, “Silent House” is one scary movie that might actually be…well, scary.
TV
“Pretty Little Liars” - March 19
ABC Family’s hit series, “Pretty Little Liars” has kept viewers guessing about the identity of the mysterious “A” for two seasons. Finally, after being blackmailed, framed, and harassed by “A” the liars are going to find out who has been behind all of this madness in Episode 47 “unmAsked.” Is it Melissa, Spencer’s older sister who definitely had a motive to kill Allison? Or maybe Spencer’s parents? Or what about Garrett? And what will happen once they find out who it is? The suspense is too much.
Music
Chris Brown - “Fortune” - March 16
Photo Courtesy of RCA Records
On the tails of the “Birthday Cake” remix drama – don’t you just hate yourself for liking that song? – Chris Brown is releasing his fifth studio album, “Fortune”. Some of the songs are “Turn Up the Music” and “Strip”. There are also collaborations with Meek Mill, 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa that could be interesting.
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sports@thehilltoponline.com
Freshman, Jenny Ly of Women’s Softball
by Camille Augustin Contributing Writer
Photo By Justin D. Knight, Office of University Communications The Howard University came in third place overall in the is weekendʼs MEAC tournament only falling behind Morgan State and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
Howard Cheer Takes Second Place at Weekend MEAC Championship by Jordan Duckens Contributing Writer The Howard University cheerleading team boarded their bus at noon on Saturday to head to Winston-Salem, N.C. for the MEAC Cheerleading Competition. By Sunday night, the team left the Joel Coliseum and boarded the same bus back to the District, this time with two trophies in hand. Out of eight schools in this particular category, Howard’s Cheerleading Squad won second place in the all-girls division. Overall, they placed third behind Morgan State and the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. Eleven schools competed in total. Between performances, the participants and audience mascot dance-offs and high school exhibitions kept the crowd entertained. There was even a performance by a special needs cheerleading team from an area high school. According to the rules, each team has to create a routine that’s no longer than three minutes. It is judged based on stunts, dancing, cheering, motions, technique, appearance, audience participation and skills such as jumping, tumbling, and tosses. The Howard cheer team had been working on their routine since December with the help of their competition coach, Marcus Ewell. “He makes up our routine, but we have a lot of input,” junior health management major and cheer back spotter, Stephanie Pace said. “He lays down the foundation and we finalize the end result.” Although Howard is not a
stranger to the MEAC championship, it is not often that the team comes home with trophies, especially more than one. “Usually Howard University has gone to the MEAC competition,” said Courtney Wesley, a junior sports medicine major and main base on the cheer team. “We’ve been the last 2 years, but the last time we were given a trophy was when Howard placed third in 2008.” Wesley said the moment they won 2nd place was “bittersweet” because she knew they could have won first. “We had a mistake in our stunt. We were deducted five points for our fall and that was the five points we needed for 1st place,” Wesley said. Both Pace and Wesley believe more support would help the team perform at the highest level. Others may not be aware that the cheer team wants someone to root for them when they compete as well. “We were fortunate enough to have the support of the men’s and women’s basketball teams which is a big help,” Wesley said. “While you’re there a lot of people from the area come to support their teams. And it gets lonely out there being all the way from D.C.” Next year, the competition will be held in Norfolk, Va. and the cheer team hopes Howard could pay for a busload of fans to support them at the completion. As the team isn’t recognized as an athletic team, they don’t get any funding from the university. “We bring home trophies, so we feel like we deserve some support from the school,” Pace said.
The next batter up to plate is Los Angeles native, Jenny Ly. As she takes her stance, the ball is thrown, she clutches the bat, swings, and the rest is history. To Ly, softball was more than just a sport. It was also a tool to get into college with having her education paid for. “My mom was the only one in the family working and there was five of us so there was no way that we could afford college. My mom worked for us to have a better lifestyle than what she had as a child but she didn’t know how it would be possible with such a small income,” freshman, design major Jenny Ly said. “So I started playing ball in order to help my mom out with college expenses.” With four years of playing softball, Ly said she enjoys being able to, “shock everyone with my unique ability to make plays that are usually really tough to make.” Ly did just that as she hit two home-runs this past weekend against Arizona State University, which was her first weekend being able to play. “It was unexpected from both teams because it was against Arizona State (2011 National Softball Champions),” Ly said. “If I couldn’t play for the number one school, might as well be able to play against them.”
Photo Courtesy of Jenny Ly Freshman in-fielder, Jenny Ly from Los Angeles adds a spark to the lady bison softball team as she gives the team two home-runs in there matchup agaisnt Arizona State.
However, the Lady Bison loss to the Sun Devils 15-3. In keeping a clear head on the field, Ly is also learning to balance keeping a clear head in the classroom as well. With classes everyday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Ly had to factor in practices from 3 to 6 p.m., study hall hours, weight-lifting, homework, and not to mention lunch and dinner. In addition, time for friends then shower and sleep.
One thing Ly has learned while playing softball for Howard is that the sport deserves a lot more credit than people give them. Despite all the disadvantages the Howard softball team has compared to other Howard sports, no field to practice, no equipment, etc., it does not stop the team from succeeding at being the best sport at Howard. Another challenge Ly faces is playing innings with injuries due to the fact that there are not enough players to substitute. “I literally have to play until my body collapses but I don’t mind the challenge,” Ly said. Despite a team record of 1-11, Ly said the team has held their own while going up against top teams in the nation. One area of work Ly said the team could improve on is being able to withstand a long day of play. “(We need to work on) endurance for long games and being able to offensively battle back,” Ly said. After getting a degree in design, Ly would enjoy working on uniforms for softball teams, wallpapers, programs, as well as create logos. Nonetheless, Ly wants to be exposed to all facets of design. As only a freshman, Ly still has a promising future with the HU softball team and is looking forward to knocking more balls out the park. “The season has been going better than expected, despite what is written in the books,” Ly said.
From the MEAC: Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament HU Score Box: Men’s Basketball vs. North Carolina A&T: W, 51-50 Men’s Basketball vs. Norfolk State: L, 71-61
(1-1) Women’s Basketball vs. South Carolina State: W, 57-42
(1-0)
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Men’s Basketball: The Number 10 seed, bison team advanced to the quarterfinal round of the MEAC tournament after defeating North Carolina State 51-50. Calvin Thompson scored eight of his team-high 15 points, Including a three pointer and a key basket to help Howard University edge on the Aggies. Last night in the quarterfinals the bison team matched up with the Norfolk State Spartans in a 71-61 loss. The loss to the second seed team knocked the bison off the bracket and out of a trip to the semi finals. Women’s Basketball: Tamoria Holmes scored a teamhigh 14 points and Saadia Doyle and Zykia Brown each added 11 to help second seed Howard University team defeat South Carolina State, 57-42 and advance to the semifinal round of the MEAC tournament. The Lady Bison team will advance to the semi finals along with the Hampton Lady Pirates. Compiled by Jordane Frazier/ Sports Editor
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THE HILLTOP | THURSDAY MARCH 8, 2012
Opinions
From The Hill to the Top
THE HILLTOP | THURSDAY MARCH 8, 2012
Britney Wilson, Opinions Editor
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opinions@thehilltoponline.com
Meccanisms SUDOKU
Action is the Highest Form of Tribute
by Austin Edwards Columnist
As we approach spring break, I think it’s safe to say that few [people] on Howard’s campus will ever forget the story of Davon GreenFranklin. The legislation created in his honor, the International Travelers Bill of Rights (HR 1120, ITBOR) was the right response to such an unfortunate situation. Davon was a very active member of the Howard University community. While at Howard, he joined the Campus Pals and later became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. In March 2010, he vacationed in Cancun, Mexico, with a few friends during spring break. Unfortunately, he would never make it back. While swimming, he suffered a medical emergency which prevented him from returning to shore. Friends, who sought help and actively tried to save him were harassed and treated with little respect by the Mexican authorities and hospital officials. Davon’s mother even had to suffer for weeks after her son’s death to resolve issues with the Mexican government. In response to this horrendous treatment, the Green-Franklin family petitioned Congress to draft legislation which would prevent another incident like this from occurring. Davon’s friends, family and members of the Howard community rallied around the International
Travelers Bill of Rights (ITBOR), which according to the ITBOR website, is intended to ensure that “Americans are provided with the most current health and safety information before they book an international trip online.” This site goes on to explain that the legislation would “[require] a clear, conspicuous notice” so that the citizen knows that “this health and safety information” has not been provided fully. The idea is that the absence of information could influence whether or not the travelers decide to book the trip. Various campus organizations such as Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity and the Campus Pals rallied for signatures of support behind the International Travelers Bill of Rights. While much work has been done, there is much more to do. Currently this bill has been stalled in Congress (it has been referred to a committee), but through more support, which was previously demonstrated by the Howard community, we can get the bill passed. Davon’s family created the website http://www.itbor.org/ to highlight the progress of the bill and to tell the stories of other college students who suffered similar fates. So as you take that drive, flight, or alternate means of travel to your favorite spring break destination, even if it merely consists of taking the metro to Adams Morgan/ Woodley Park Zoo, never forget the importance of safety and situational awareness, particularly in these college hotspots. Stay informed as to where you are going and the pitfalls you may encounter there. A website’s travelers’ information may not be enough and the International Travelers Bill of Rights was created to combat this startling fact. Please tell your congressman to support the International Travelers Bill of Rights so this tragedy never has to be repeated. Austin Edwards is a senior political science major from Trenton, N.J.
Coming to thehilltoponline.com: This week’s edition of
Benjamin Woods’ column “Free ‘em All”
5 3 1 Sean Miller, Contributing Cartoonist
Black Lobbyists for Israel? STAFF EDITORIAL
The longstanding AmericanIsraeli alliance has been in the headlines a great deal recently. The apparent disagreement between the United States and Israel on how to address Iran’s development of nuclear weapons—President Obama wants to continue to focus on diplomacy and sanctions, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thinks that they need to be prepared to take military action—is a major subject for debate. While President Obama restated his support for Israel during an address to the lobbyist group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) saying he had “Israel’s back,” another group has also been lobbying on Israel’s behalf. AIPAC has been recruiting students from HBCUs to join in its work to support Israel, a recent Colorlines article states. In light of many Palestinian advocacy groups arguing that the current plight of Palestinians is similar to that of black South Africans during apartheid (many of the African American students who have been recruited object to the comparison of the Palestinian predicament and apartheid), AIPAC has begun giving African-American students at HBCUs background in Israeli-Palestinian history, fund-
ing the students’ trips to D.C. and Israel to meet prominent officials, and providing them with training as lobbyists. However, how valuable it would be if some organization recruited and trained African-American students to lobby on behalf of some country in Africa or in the African world in the same way that AIPAC
Our View:
AIPACʼs recruitment of HBCU students highlights the need for students of color to develop lobbying skills in order to better advocate on behalf of their communities and the rest of the African world. is training them to lobby for Israel? Particularly since many of the students sited in the Colorlines article admitted to not being very knowledgeable about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict prior to their exposure to AIPAC, as HBCU students who are supposed to be especially well-
versed in the history and issues affecting the Diaspora, the added skill and experience of lobbying would be beneficial to advocate and bring about change. Even for students who may not be very knowledgeable about issues affecting certain countries, a program that combines education, exposure, and advocacy training would no doubt be helpful for both the student and the country to which he or she decides to devote his or her efforts. We live in a society where social and political change is in many ways a direct result of our organizational skills and efforts. While many people stress the importance of voting in order to actively participate in our democracy, the ability to lobby is equally as, if not more, important. By recruiting students from HBCUs, AIPAC is deliberately challenging accusations of prejudice and racism with a literal demonstration of the “I’m not racist. I have black friends” argument, with a somewhat one-sided cultural exchange. Although it may be equipping the students with powerful tools to aid them in their fight for Israel, hopefully the students are also mastering some of the strategies to use in their own communities and in the world at large.
PERSPECTIVE An Endorsement or a Red Flag? I have consistently had issues with the quality of The Hilltop. Usually it stems from editing and grammar more so than the content. However, the HUSA and Undergraduate Trustee endorsements this year were a cause of concern for me, specifically the undergraduate trustee recommendation. I will say that this opinion has some bias because I supported another candidate. However, my complaint stems from the content of the endorsement, not the endorsed candidate. If my candidate would have gotten
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the nomination with the exact same description given to Marcus Carey, I still would not be pleased. The Hilltop editorial staff endorsed Marcus Carey while simultaneously discrediting him from the position. As they stated in their endorsement, “…we question his ability to truly represent the needs of the students of our university.” Wait, what? I’m sorry; I thought that was a critical part of being the undergraduate trustee. As an undergraduate trustee, you repre-
sent the voice of the students to the board. If you are not in tune with the students and their needs, then how are you going to be effective? To me, that statement nullifies the entire endorsement. Between last year and The Hilltop’s endorsement of, in my opinion, a clearly subpar candidate to this year’s nonsensical explanation of support, I question the expertise and the motivation of these endorsements. Unfortunately, sometimes students at Howard, especially freshman, simply see the names of
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the Hilltop endorsed candidates and vote without reading the articles, being knowledgeable about platforms, and understanding how the University works. The Hilltop has great influence and it is important to use that responsibly. If anyone read that article and thought about it critically, they would have to question the validity of that endorsement. There simply cannot be an endorsement that questions the individual’s ability to do the job. That goes beyond poor grammar; it
literally does not make any sense. I hope that in the future, The Hilltop will do a better job at evaluating candidates before endorsing them and improve their explanations for their support as well. It is their responsibility to present meaningful information to the student body, not contradictory rhetoric that is illogical.
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Classifieds Employment
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1. Have you given up on your spring break workout plan? 2. Did you get your spring break weave yet? 3. Do you have a midterm tomorrow? #firstworldpains 4. Are you going to Charter Day? 5. Are you sleeping instead? 6. HU Twerk team? 7. Really doe? 8. Do you think Debbie Allen & Stokely Carmichael would be proud? 9. Are you going to Miami to escape Howard? 10.You know everybody and they mama gone be there, right? 11.You juiced? 12.Y’all seen Ms. Long Hair Don’t Care. The Metro Editor? #AyeBayBay 13. And it’s not even her birthday? 14. Cuffin season is over? 15.Yo boo stopped calling? *pulls out box of Kleenex* 16. Who tryna babysit Blu Ivy? 17. Applications been due. Where you been? 18. Under a rock? #midterms 19. Who misses Lil Zane signs? 20. Got ya SB12 playlist? #sunglassesandadvil
$5 for 10 words, 25 cents per word after Email all reservations to classifieds@thehilltoponline.com. Payments and requests are due three business days before publication
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Misc.
Do you have Sitters Want- Buy an ad in our something to classifieds seced. $12+ per tion say? Somehour. Register Email classithing to free for jobs fieds@thehilloffer? Place at www.stu- toponline.com an ad in dent-sitters. with your reclassifieds!! quest. com
Desireé Luckey is a senior sociology and political science minor from Peoria, Ill.
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Have a Safe, Fun Spring Break Bison!!! Don’t forget The Hilltop when you get back!
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! email campusadvertising@thehilltoponline.com for more info!
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THE HILLTOP | THURSDAY MARCH 8, 2012 Similar to a TV Guide section of a newspaper, HU GUIDE gives campus advertisers the opportunity to advertise programs and services valuable to the Howard University community. HU GUIDE is displayed in FULL COLOR and features advertisements relative to the week of publication.
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