Issue 70.5 - The Reign Continues | Special Edition II, October 25, 2017

VOLUME 70 | ISSUE 5 October 25, 2017

THE TSU HERALD

THE REIGN CONTINUES The Dawn of a New Reign | 2017 Homecoming Committee | Fashion Night Out | The Greek Show

Campus Kings 2017-2018

PHOTOS BY BRANDON ANINIPOT

Mr. Senior CHRISTOPHER LONDON Mr. Junior SHUN BRISBY Mr. Sophomore ALUSINE DAVIS Mr. Freshman BRAYMOND MCGILBRA

THE REIGN CONTINUES

TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITORIAL STAFF Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Paige M. Hubbard MANAGING EDITOR

Nicole Tall

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tasha Poullard Jabari Sherman Kyndra Snoddy

Pictured above: Todd Travon Rogers; editor-in-chief and Paige M. Hubbard; managing editor representing Student Publications as Mr. and Miss TSU Herald during the 2017 Royal Court Coronation.

HBCU BUZZ A quick recap of the full week of events

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THE ROYAL COURT A Royal Who’s Who

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6 GOSPEL EXPLOSION Sunday Best winner headlines annual event PEP RALLY Homecoming has an explosive kickoff

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9 FASHION SHOW TSU creatives converge on the Tiger Walk

HOMECOMING COMMITTEE 10 Insight into the planning of the Tiger Dynasty

GREEK SHOW 16 Omega Psi Phi and Sigma Gamma Rho take the win

HUMPDAY Check out our midweek photo story

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17 SATURDAY From the parade to the tailgate and everything in between

COMEDY SHOW Alumni Billy Sorrells returns for third year as host

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14 YARDFEST Fundraising opportunities for campus organizations CONCERT YFN Lucci and Boosie unveiled during concert

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TIGERS VS. HORNETS TSU Sports Coverage

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The cover photos and ‘Campus King and Queens’ features were shot and edited by Brandon Aninipot. For more information follow him on IG @aninipics

The TSU Herald staff is compiling a video montage of the full week of Homecoming. If you would like to submit your clips to contribute to the final product – send to tsu.heraldeditor@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Mikol Kindle Jr. Kordell Tilley Brandon Aninipot Emmanuel Green Jeremiah Cooper Akayla Harris

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kendrick Davis

CIRCULATION/ DISTRIBUTION

Tiyosha Turner

PUBLICATIONS MANAGER

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The TSU Herald is published by the students of Texas Soutehrn University. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration. The newspaper is printed biweekly, except during holidays and examination periods.

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HBCU BUZZ

THE TIGER DYNASTY RECAP TSU COMMEMORATED 90TH ANNIVERSARY WITH HOMECOMING CELEBRATION

Words by Kendrick D. Callis TSU COMMUNICATIONS

HOUSTON – Texas Southern University’s campus was abuzz for seven days as students, alumni, faculty and staff celebrated its 2017 Homecoming – Tiger Dynasty: The Reign Continues – from October 7-14.

This year’s weeklong calendar of events featured a coronation ceremony, block party, golf tournament, parade, comedy and fashion shows, concerts, the Homecoming football game and tailgating.

“There is a true Tiger Dynasty brewing here at Texas Southern University,” said TSU President Austin Lane. “The proof is in the eagerness of our alumni, community partners, faculty and staff to come together with our current student body to celebrate the importance of this great institution and its 90-year history.”

Homecoming Week opened on October 7 with the coronation ceremony of Miss TSU Tramauni Brock, Mister TSU Chad Zeno and their Royal Court. Homecoming worship services were held at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church followed by a spirited gospel concert on campus featuring Tasha PageLockhart, and performances

by DA Davies and J’Von Gray.

Student events included a pep rally, the third-annual midnight breakfast, an open mic poetry night, and a fashion show featuring 70 student models and 14 fashion designers.

“I am honored to represent the student body at Homecoming and beyond,” said Tramauni Brock, Miss TSU 2017. “From the parties to the parade to the tailgate and football game, the student body had fun and enjoyed meeting and mingling with our alumni.”

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Alumni activities began with a graduates vs. undergrads game night in the Student Center and golfers teed-off at the 16th annual Tiger Paw Golf Classic at Hermann Park. Esther Franklin Nelson, 92, a 1946 graduate of the Houston College for Negroes (which became Texas Southern University in 1947), returned to her alma mater to take part in the alumni mixer on October 12.

“Texas Southern University means tradition and being back on the Yard just feels like home,” said Johnetta “Kittie” Long-Alfred (TSU ‘89). “This was the best Homecoming and a great way to celebrate 90 years.”

Alumni, students, faculty and staff converged on the University Plaza for Yard Fest. The campus event featured games, specialty vendors and food trucks. Rap artists Lil’ Boosie and Lucci headlined a standing-room-only show for students in Sawyer Auditorium, all on October 13.

Homecoming culminated on October 14 with the Grand Tiger Parade which featured Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, local and state officials, marching bands, decorated cars, walking and dance units.

The festive atmosphere continued at the campus-wide Tailgate Party, featuring rapper Big Daddy Kane. The Tigers football team posted an impressive effort against Alabama State, but fell short, losing 23-16 in a hard-fought match. TSU men’s and women’s top athletic teams – basketball, softball, baseball and golf – were presented conference championship rings during halftime.

From top to bottom: TSU Cheer during game day, alumna at Welcome Home event, attendees of the 16th Tiger Paw Golf Classic at Hermann Park, the Motion during half-time at BBVA Compass Stadium.

THE ROYAL COURT MR. TEXAS SOUTHERN Chad L. Zeno Lafayette, Louisiana

MISS TEXAS SOUTHERN Tramauni E. Brock Baton Rouge, Louisiana

National Society of Leadership and Success, member; Lambda Beta National Honor Society for the Profession of Respiratory Care, Vice-President; Louisiana Club, Founder and President

American Pharmacist Association, member; Alpha Pi chapter of Phi Lambda Sigma, member; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated; 2016-2017 Student Regent at TSU

MR. SENIOR Christopher London Memphis, Tennessee

MISS SENIOR Blessing Nwosu Houston, Texas

MR. JUNIOR Shun Brisby Houston, Texas

MISS JUNIOR Jaida Lewis Chicago, Illinois

MR. SOPHOMORE Alusine “AJ” Davis Houston, Texas

MISS SOPHOMORE Janai DeDiemar Denver, Colorado

MR.FRESHMAN Braymond McGilbra Dallas, Texas

MISS FRESHMEN Kaleigh Davis Memphis, Tennessee

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GOSPEL EXPLOSION

Sunday Best Star Tasha Page-Lockhart Headlines TSU Homecoming Gospel Concert in Sawyer Auditorium Words by Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Photos by Kordell Tilley

Clockwise from top left: Concert attendees lift their hands in prayer, mime performance from TSU Intervarsity club, Vice-President of Student Services Dr. Raphael Moffett makes a powerful statement during gospel performances, J’Yon Gray (right), and DA Davies (left).

SAWYER

AUDITORIUM

–

Season six winner of BET Sunday Best Tasha PageLockhart took to the stage during the annual Homecoming Gospel Show held in Sawyer Auditorium on Sunday, October 8, 2017.

The Stellar Award winner headlined the longstanding concert along with special performances from DA Davies and J’Yon Gray.

The host for the evening was 6

Jor’el Quinn, a commanding presence in the gospel community.

Lockhart was definitely the highlight of the night.

Student regent Justin Lee said she made the spirit flow through the room with her powerful singing voice.

In the past, the gospel show brought in a high attendance with prominent members of the community

taking seats in the audience.

Although the crowd enjoyed the spirited occasion, the student regent said the university could do a better job packing out the house.

“Attendence was low because of marketing. It could have been promoted better to the community and students,” Lee said. “Next year the university should reach out to more churches and bring different choirs.”

The student attendees loved the show including a comedian and mime performance from TSU Intervarsity.

“It was an amazing experience and I enjoyed every second. It allowed every student, no matter their religion, to come together and fellowship with one another,” junior Kasha Powell said.

Doors opened at 3:30 p.m. and started at 4 p.m.

PEP RALLY

Attendance Increases with Longer Lines at the Annual Midnight Breakfast Following the Pep Rally Words by Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Photos by Kordell Tilley DURLEY FIELD – Monday night the university hosted the 2017 Homecoming Kickoff Pep Rally on the track field from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. before the 3rd annual Midnight Breakfast.

The night began with a short, but lively performance from the Ocean of Soul Marching Band and the university cheerleaders while the crowd watched from the stands.

Sophomore Kat Grey participated in the traditional mock funeral in which students mourned the “death” of our homecoming opponent, the Alabama State Hornets.

“I got to push the casket this year. Newer students probably thought it was disrespectful, but it was all in good spirit,” Grey said.

The mock funeral was closed out by chants and a dance battle led by Talk on the Walk host Tyler Doggett, better known as “Plex Washington” and Korey “DJ iKew” Williams.

Williams, a freshman, said there was some confusion in communication with the DJ. Another freshman disc jockey was originally planned to spin the event on Monday, October 9, 2017.

“Due to technical dif-

ficulties, I ended up DJing that night,” Williams said.

The pep rally concluded with an unexpected surprise. The Homecoming Committee managed to get a firework show approved which made the occasion more festive.

“The committee really outdid themselves with the fireworks,” Grey said.

That night the Student Government Association (SGA) Elevation administration led by president Corbrin “Cornbread” Burton hosted the 3rd annual “Midnight Bread and Breakfast“ event in the cafeteria.

In the past, the midnight breakfast was provided by the Breakfast Klub and Esther’s Cajun Café & Soul Food, but this year the event was catered by Sodexo with a menu that included fried fish, chicken and waffles, french toast, bacon, eggs and grits with an assortment of fruit.

Senior Calon MaskOats said the best thing on his plate was the fried fish and sophomore Jamia Smith said she enjoyed the fresh grapes and strawberries.

The lines leading into the cafeteria quickly became congested at both entrances due to the large

Clockwise from top: Student reporters capture the exciting chants, sophomore Kat Grey and friends mourns for the Alabama State Hornets during the mock funeral, students observe the unexpected fireworks.

crowd that migrated to the Student Center following the pep rally.

“I felt for the other students in line because they were so long. I entered the cafeteria on the strength of SGA, but I noticed how quickly the lines moved thanks to the TSU Police,” Smith said.

There commotions

were slight during the

event which lasted from 10 p.m. to midnight. Students that arrived later than others complained about the slow service, but Smith said the Sodexo servers did an excellent job at accommodating the large crowds.

“In between time, Sodexo helped move the lines quicker by bringing out large portions to serve throughout the night,” Smith said.

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FASHION SHOW

Student Designers Showcase Brands During TSU Fashion Night Out CREATIVES FROM PHOTOGRAPHERS TO STYLE CRITICS CONVERGE ON THE TIGER WALK FOR AN EPIC CATWALK SHOW

Words by Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Photos by Mikol Kindle Jr.

Clockwise from the top left: Model Deouna Davis models custom jacket by Flex SZN, Moya Evans accessorizes with bejeweled headband, Model Jaylen Brooks in Flex SZN, a snake on the runway makes for an exciting spectacle, Model Victoria Harris catches the light at the right time, Models Rakayla Robertson (left) and Indya Steele (right) coordinate in matching EgoRay designs.

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FASHION SHOW STERLING STUDENT LIFE CENTER – Fashion Night Out exceeded expectations on Tuesday evening with a large turnout. The Texas Southern University (TSU) Homecoming fashion show brought out a crowd of 300 plus on October 10, 2017 in front of the Sterling Student Life Center. With over 70 models and 16 designers participating, this show was the largest compared to previous years.

The models that walked the complicated catwalk rehearsed for three weeks in an extensive workshop setting coached by Victoria Charles.

“It was the third fashion show I’ve been a part of,” said model Nazanne Smith. “The designers and the whole vibe throughout the workshops and during the show has never failed to impress me. I look forward to be “Out of all the ing a part of more shows.”

Homecoming events, the fashion show had the The fashion show best venue,” senior Tyler was not only an opportuDoggett said. “It really felt nity to showcase talented like a true fashion show.” designers, but it also allowed for students like

Doggett also host- freshman Joshua Brown to ed the fashion show from step out of their comfort the second-floor balcony zone as models. of the student center. He said it was great to see a “My favorite part lot of diversity this year about the fashon show with the models, but the was being able to actually designers. do something of this caliber because I had lack of

“EgoRay had the confidence in myself and best designs. She was this boosted me a lot,” definitely my favorite,” Brown said.

Doggett said.

Flex SZN designer

The show featured Quinn Peterson said his brands by TSU students brand received some pretincluding YOBA Brand, ty decent exposure.

Puffington Clothing, Daydream Collective, EgoRay “I would definitely do it Designs, Flex SZN, Highend again,” Peterson said. “I Clothing, Hitman Corps am already looking forward and more. to the one next year.”

Clockwise from the top left: Model Lauren McCants (left) poses in Arcvision clothing, Victoria Harris (right) opens the show in a spirited tiger stripe dress from Versatile Ego by alumna Yolanda Vincent, masked model in Daydream Collective brand by Denavean “Navy” Fox, Jaylen Brooks modeling yellow hat and shirt by YOBA Brand.

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HOMECOMING STEERING COMMITTEE

BEHIND THE SCENES: Words by Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Photos by Jeremiah Cooper

THE HERALD: Do you think coronation made for a great Homecoming week kickoff this year?

JORDAN STANLEY Marketing/ Promotions

DEESE: I think so because it was very elegant. Miss TSU and the whole court looked great. It was nice to see students and their families dressed up.

THE HERALD: How can we improve attendance at events like the gospel explosion?

CLAIBOURN: If we publicized the event to the community and different churches there would be higher attendance.

STANLEY: Since I’ve been here the gospel explosion has never been an event with high attendance. So, to be honest, I don’t really care for the gospel explosion and it’s an event we could really do away with.

JOSIE DEESE Creative Director

DEESE: We should have a choir competition instead of a traditional gospel show.

THE HERALD: Was there some confusion with the DJ during the pep rally?

CLAIBOURN: There was some confusion, but fortunately were always prepared.

ANGELICA CLAIBOURN Operations Manager 10

STANLEY: The pep rally was my event and I could have communicated better with the DJ. I thought DJs knew to have their microphones on them and to be there an hour ahead of time, but now I know that’s something that we as the homecoming committee must take into account. It all worked out – shoutout to DJ iKew. THE HERALD: Who decided to include pyrotechnics and will

they return next year?

CLAIBOURN: We needed a big ‘shah-bang’ to kick off the week so that people would know that homecoming is officially here and it’s going to be lit.

THE HERALD: How will the committee handle the long lines at midnight breakfast next year?

STANLEY: Directly after the pep rally, the entire crowd left the field at the same time to head to the cafeteria. It was really congested and difficult for the police officers to get students in and out. It probably should have been better organized, but the food was good.

THE HERALD: Why didn’t the Breakfast Klub cater midnight breakfast?

STANLEY: The reason why is because Sodexo has the ability to supply more food compared to using a third party like the Breakfast Klub, which will only supply the university with about 400-600 plates. We’ve learned that it’s not enough to accommodate the large crowds here.

You see we never ran out of food. Everyone got to eat.

THE HERALD: What was the biggest change with the fashion show compared to last year?

CLAIBOURN: The production was grander compared to prior years. We had more seats and it was more open. It was like a real show for the students and not just a showcase for the designers.

STANLEY: The biggest change was obviously the location. It was so beautiful and well put together by the homecoming

committee and Todd Rogers.

This year was all about expansion and we wanted to take a chance, which worked in our favor.

THE HERALD: What was the highlight of the art show on Tuesday?

CLAIBOURN: My favorite part was the finished art pieces that we have. Our students are super dope and I feel like people don’t appreciate our artistic students. This was a platform for them.

DEESE: I loved seeing students showcase their work. We had a couple of people who had never performed in front of a crowd, so it was nice to share those moments with them.

THE HERALD: Why did the committee decide to do collaborative art?

CLAIBOURN: We wanted every event to have some type of interactive element.

DEESE: We wanted to show appreciation for the arts and give students an opportunity to leave something behind from homecoming.

THE HERALD: What made this humpday different than any other humpday?

STANLEY: We had a camel out there – if you get it.

DEESE: The camel! Humpdays usually have a high attendance anyways.

THE HERALD: Did the committee find any of the material from the comedy show offensive?

HOMECOMING STEERING COMMITTEE

THE TIGER DYNASTY 2017 CLAIBOURN: Comedy is one of those things where its unfiltered just like music. Prior to the event we announced that there would be offensive language used. Maybe there were some offensive things said, but it was all out of fun.

STANLEY: You have to expect for comedians to offend someone. I don’t think it’s a true comedy show if no one is offended – it just has to be funny.

DEESE: I personally wasn’t offended because those are jokes that we make on a daily basis.

THE HERALD: Why has did the university hire Billy Sorrells to host the comedy show?

CLAIBOURN: TSU tries to stick with our alum and Billy Sorrells is an alum. Any event that we do here at TSU, we try to involve people with personal ties to the university.

THE HERALD: Are you surprised that the block party didn’t get out of hand due to a large amount of non-students attending?

STANLEY: We had security in place. And it was great. No fights, nothing broke out, and students loved it.

CLAIBOURN: I’m not surprised and that’s one of the things that the TSU police were aware of. We underestimate our community and our students so we always expect the worst, but I’m glad that at this event we actually showed that we are ONE TSU. THE HERALD: What’s the difference between a block party and a street festival?

STANLEY: Actually, there’s no difference. Originally, there was proposal for a rooftop party that we denied by officials because they were worried about safety. Certain people didn’t like the name of the event because they thought it would bring out the wrong crowd, but as it turns out we had no problems. Its probably an event that we should bring back.

THE HERALD: What’s the biggest opportunity for students during yardfest?

CLAIBOURN: A lot of new students don’t know that yardfest is a fundraising event for organizations.

THE HERALD: Why was the concert moved from the Plaza to Sawyer?

DEESE: TSU-PD had concerns with security since it would be outside and a free concert. So in order to ensure students were safe we moved the concert inside.

THE HERALD: Why weren’t the concert artists revealed until the day of the event?

STANLEY: We originally planned for an unveiling on Thursday night at the block party. We had planned for two big name acts from the beginning that were approved by university administrators, unfortunately we were told a lie when it came down to who we actually locked in as artists. Shoutout to Boosie and Lucci for coming last minute and the students love them, but if it would have worked out the way it was supposed to we would have had Cardi B and Young Dolph.

For more information about the Homecoming Committee activities on IG: @txsuhc17

THE HERALD: Why have a Greek Show without all of the Divine Nine?

music, eat, drink, have fun, and there’s really a bunch of comradery.

STANLEY: The concept behind the Greek Show would allow for all Divine Nine organizations to participate, but we don’t have that many Greeks on campus because they are suspended.

We would allow outside chapters to participate, but with Greek politics not everyone is able to just walk on our campus and perform in our Greek Show.

THE HERALD: What is the importance of having the parade route through Third Ward?

CLAIBOURN: Third Ward needs all of the traditions it had before gentrification.

THE HERALD: What is tailgate the most active event of homecoming week?

DEESE: I’m from Third Ward, so I really am connected to both TSU and the community. You can’t have one without the other, so it is really important because I know when the parade was moved the community felt some type of way. Members in this neighborhood raised the money to build this university and parade shows the community that TSU appreciates them.

CLAIBOURN: Usually all of our alumni come back home from tailgate. Its like a family reunion.

THE HERALD: How can students get involved in Homecoming or be a part of the committee?

DEESE: Tailgate is truly the time for alumni and students to come together to just enjoy the

STANLEY: Applications will be available in the Office of Student Activities.

DEESE: The Greek Show is the fundraiser for the PAN. So, we had no control over who would be a part of the show.

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HUMP DAY

Clockwise from top left: Miss Debate Ania Sherman and friend, TSU students dress for the occasion, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. stroll during Humpday alongside Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Miss Recreation Center Tiffany Conrad, Humpday turns into a fashion show, DJ sets up on the second-floor balcony, TSU security are about that action, Joshua Gilmore-King enjoys the food, Todd T. Rogers poses with friend, Josie Deese is the first to ride the Humpday camel.

Photos by Brandon Aninipot

The TSU Herald staff is currently looking for contributors. If you are interested in publishing your original work, news, and photographs please send an inquiry to tsu.heraldeditor@gmail.com 12

COMEDY SHOW

Billy Sorrells Returns for the Third Time as Host of TSU Homecoming Comedy Show Words by Paige M. Hubbard MANAGING EDITOR Photos by Brandon Aninipot

H&PE ARENA - The Texas Southern University Homecoming Comedy Show was nothing short of a good time, but that should come as no surprise with TSU alumni Billy Sorrells as the host.

ing at the seams in laughter.

RIP Michaels and Lavar Walker closed out the show and one comedian incorporated dating while the other chose to input Hispanic culture into his comedy skit.

The show kicked off Wednesday, October 11, in the H&PE Arena on day five of the Tiger Dynasty homecoming. Sounds of joyful laugher filled the arena as each guest hit the stage ready to give their best for the TSU Tigers.

There were four comedians, but each individual brought a different dynamic to the stage.

Some students like Miss Wesley Foundation Jamia Smith thought the standup was pure comedy and said she was in tears after Walker left the stage.

Darren Brand and Leonard Outsz from MTV’s hit show Wildin’ Out were the first two performers of the night and they had the audience bust-

However some students were offended by the statements and felt like Walker’s skit mocked the culture of Hispanic people. Nevertheless,

“The Hispanic skit was super funny and I like how the guy talked about relationships,” said Smith. “it was hilarious.”

the feedback was positive in regards to how the students enjoyed the show overall.

“I was actually sitting in the front and the show was very live, one of the most live shows I’ve ever been to.” said Korey Willams AKA DJ iKew.

TSU’s very own Talk on the Walk host Tyler Doggett also known as Plex Washington was in attendance and said he thought the Homecoming committee selected the perfect venue for the event and he thoroughly enjoyed himself.

“It was popping. The location was able to house everyone comfortably, plus the show was super dope and funny,” said Doggett.

From bottom to top from left: Billy Sorrells opens the show, the crowd cannot contain their laughter, Darren Brand has the crowd rolling, RIP Michaels’ skit is inappropriate but hilarious, and Lavar Walker closes out the show.

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YARD FEST

Yardfest Adds Concert to Daytime Lineup Words by Nicole Tall EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Photos by Brandon Aninipot and Daniel Oluku

On Friday, October 13, Texas Southern University (TSU) the annual Yardfest took place as a number of our 150-student organization set up booths on the University Plaza to showcase everything from unique foods trucks to customized fashion for fundraising.

As current students and young alumni enjoyed the festivities on the Tiger Walk, special guest performers Lil Boosie and YFN Lucci geared up for a surprise performance in the Granville Sawyer Auditorium.

After giving everyone a much-anticipated performance, overnighters prepared The Point for the Homecoming Tiger Tailgate held on Saturday, October 14.

With all the food and fun on Friday afternoon, the mood was set for smooth sailing into Saturday bringing out more Tiger family to reunite and remember 90 years of Tiger Dynasty!

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CONCERT

YFN Lucci and Boosie Unveiled as Homecoming Concert Headliners Words by Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SAWYER AUDITORIUM – Two recording artists surprised students at Texas Southern University on Friday, October 13, 2017 during the Homecoming Concert.

The Homecoming Steering Committee opted to keep the concert headliners a secret for the entire week of festivities while rumors of potential artists spread down the Tiger Walk.

“We wanted to provide a free concert to students. It would have been a security risk if we pubbed it to the public,” Homecoming committee member Josie Deese said.

From top to bottom: YFN Lucci hit the stage as the first headliner of the Homecoming Concert, Louisiana based rapper Boosie makes a surprise appearance as the second headliner for the evening.

Photos by Ken Davis and Daniel Oluku

piled into Sawyer Auditorium.

The seats filled quickly.

The concert started off shaky due to the large crowd and the opening acts were welcomed with mixed reactions, yet they put on a great pre-show.

YFN Lucci entered the stage next. He is best known for his songs “Key to the Streets” featuring Migos and “Everyday We Lit” with PnB Rock.

Sophomore Sydney Moten said she was excited when she found out who the artist was.

With a brief seven-minute intermission, the crowd began to disperse when the DJ made a surprise announcement. The show was not over.

Louisiana based recording artist Boosie hit the stage as the second headliner causing the crowd to rush toward the stage.

“I thought we’d have Cardi B. I was so excited to see her, but I was okay with the performers that came,” Moten said.

“I feel like the officers did an okay job with crowd control, but students are going to do what they want to do,” Moten said.

A poll was set up by the committee during the Spring 2017 semester to gage the student’s musical interest.

Moten said she has a lot of family from “the boot” and was hype because she was able to meet Boosie backstage.

Deese said the students really wanted artists like Travis Scott, Gucci Mane, and SZA.

Moten and the rest of the crowd stayed around after the concert for pictures with the artist.

On the day of the show, concert goers departed from the Yardfest activities on the University Plaza and

“The crowd enjoyed themselves, they were definitely on ten,” Deese said.

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GREEK SHOW

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. Takes First Place in Greek Show Alongside Back to Back Winners Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Words by Kyndra Snoddy CONTRIBUTING WRITER show ended strongly with an NWA inspired performance by the men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated, who ultimately won first place along with the ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated.

When asked how he felt about winning first place, Mr. Omega Psi Phi Christian Ross said that it felt amazing.

Photo courtesy of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated

Stepping or step-dancing has a long and gilded history in African-American culture. It can be traced back to African foot dances such as Gumboot, which was originally created by miners in South Africa as a result of authorities banning drumming. Individuals participating in the step rituals use movements, words and sounds to communicate allegiance to a group.

The stepping tradition in the United States grew out of song and ceremonial dances practiced by historically African-American fraternities and sororities beginning in the early 1900s. The ritual performance of stepping in Black Greek-letter societies may have developed in part from African-American Masonic rituals.

Friday the 13th, traditionally recognized as “bad luck” day, was a complete oxymoron in terms of how the day actually went on the cam16

pus of Texas Southern University. Music, food, and fellowship was prevalent around the campus as alumni and students reconnected and enjoyed the homecoming festivities of the day.

Following an explosive concert which featured Louisiana rapper Boosie as the main attraction, Texas Southern University’s Panhellenic Council hosted the “School Daze” Greek Step Show in the Granville Sawyer Auditorium.

The show opened with high school step team, Men of Distinction, rendering the audience a mind-blowing performance. Students, alumni, staff, and judges then enjoyed about two hours of TSU’s sororities and fraternities giving their absolute best. Following the Men of Distinction were Tau Beta Sigma, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, and the

“I really don’t know what it feels like to be second because we’ve been first place back to back over the last few years,” Ross said.

Ross thanked all the students for coming out and supporting the Greek organizations.

“It’s not just the Ques, but the Greek unity on the campus. This is a Pan event.

The Pan is all Greeks who are in the Divine Nine,” Ross said.

Kaijah Pratt, member of Sigma Gamma Rho said it felt great to win.

“You know people have been sleeping on us, but we came back and have been tearing the yard up,” Pratt said.

The Omegas and the SGRhos received a check in the amount of $1000 each which will continue to support the solidarity of their organizations.

Mr. Kevaris Sims, along with Ms. Shannon Henderson, were the executive producers behind the scenes mak-

ing sure everything was organized and safe. Sims said that he volunteered to cover all of the expenses to ensure the students and alumni had a great show.

“I thought it was great,” Sims said. “It was highly anticipated strictly based off the ticket sales. The ticket sales started off slow so we were a little concerned at first and didn’t know if we would get the crowd we needed, but it was reflected in the lines outside.”

Sims said the entire Divine 9 was not present, which is something the Panhellenic Council is working on for the future.

“I anticipate with a lot of work and a lot of discussion with some of the regional chapters, we’ll be able to get some of the organizations back. So, this time next year, we’ll be able to have a full show with only Texas Southern University Greeks – that’s the goal,” Sims said.

“I think the campus would love it, they would appreciate it, and our students need it. Today was somebody’s first step show. Our freshman class, for some of them, this is their first homecoming. It was someone’s first time seeing Omega Psi Phi and Sigma Gamma Rho win a step-show.

That means a lot to know that we have the ability to create those types of experiences – that’s what it’s all about.”

PARADE

Community Enjoys the New Parade Route Through Third Ward Photos by Mikol Kindle Jr.

Photo courtesy of Office of University Communications

Article courtesy of cw39.com HOUSTON -- Texas Southern University is celebrating in a major way as homecoming week almost comes to a close!

Tigers invited Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green and our very own Mayor Sylvester Turner to be a part of the annual homecoming parade that celebrates the university and community coming together in honor of TSU’s powerful impact and presence in the Third Ward!

“What a special time for Texas Southern University,” Jackson Lee said. “Ninety years of educating our young people. What a great asset to this community, and I’m delighted that we’re so unified in Houston...”

From top to bottom: Mayor Sylvester Turner (left) and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (right) participate in the annual TSU Homecoming Parade, university president Austin Lane rides down Cleburne Street in a vintage car, and the Ocean of Soul Marching Band makes waves.

For 90 years, this historically black college has been a leading producer of African-American and Hispanic college graduates. It was also an institution of choice for many notable people, such as Yolanda Adams, Barbara Jordan, and Michael Strahan.

Enjoy your homecoming, tigers, and continue to model “Excellence in Achievement” in everything you do!

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TSU VS. ALABAMA STATE

Hornets mount comeback to defeat TSU 23-16 During Game at BBVA Stadium Article courtesy of tsusports.com

HOUSTON- After jumping out to a 16-3 first half lead the Texas Southern Tigers lost momentum eventually falling to the Alabama State Hornets by a score of 23-16 at BBVA Compass Stadium.

TSU quarterback Dominic DeLira tossed two first half touchdowns connecting on a 32 yard reception to Carter Jefferson and a 19 yard reception to Tracy Johnson to give TSU a 14-3 lead early. The Tigers defense responded by recording a safety to give Texas Southern a commanding 16-3 advantage.

Alabama State would add a score prior to the conclusion of the first half bringing the score to 16-10.

In the second half the Hornets held the Tigers offense scoreless while adding 13 points to subsequently take the lead and seal the game in their favor.

Julian Marcantel lead Texas Southern in tackles during the contest as he tallied 10 stops (3 solo, 7 assists) including 2.5 tackles for loss and a pass breakup.

Texas Southern will have a bye next week before returning to the field to face Grambling State on Oct. 28th on the road.

Photos by Brandon Aninipot

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From top to bottom: BBVA Stadium was the place to be, the TSU Royal Court represent the university well at the 2017 homecoming game, the TSU Motion dance team performs during halftime. On the left: TSU vs. Alabama State University

Campus Queens 2017-2018

PHOTOS BY BRANDON ANINIPOT

Miss Senior BLESSING NWOSU Miss Junior JAIDA LEWIS Miss Sophomore JANAI DEDIEMAR Miss Freshman KALEIGH DAVIS

“One of the most courageous things you can do is to identify yourself, know who you are, what you believe in, and where you want to go.”

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SHEILA M. BETHEL

MISS TSU 2017-2018 TRAMAUNI E. BROCK