WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM
Monday, February 6, 2012
VOL. 114 ISSUE 17
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Cloudy
Cloudy
High / 75ºF
High / 73ºF
High / 74ºF
High / 66ºF
High / 68ºF
High / 69ºF
High / 68ºF
Big week for Ammons
Karl Etters News Editor
It’s a big decision week for President James H. Ammons and the Florida A&M Board of Trustees as they face Ammons’ evaluation and requests for key information. Tuesday is the deadline that has been set Board of Governors Inspector General Derry Harper to submit all documents to the Board of Governors regarding the university’s anti-hazing plan. On Jan. 20, Harper sent a letter to FAMU Board of Trustees Chairman Solomon Badger outlining which documents should be submitted including a list of a dozen documents and a Nov. 25 letter from suspended band director Julian White to university President Ammons,
President James H. Ammons will receive his annual evaluation by the Board of Trustees this week.
files dating as far back as January 2007 from the FAMU Police Department, the office of the vice president of student affairs, any
university sanctioned student organizations and description of the president’s role at the university.
On Wednesday, according to the official agenda, Ammons will undergo his annual review by the BOT and
several outside consultants including nationally known education consultant and a lead member for the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Edward Penson. The review will cover July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011, leaving out the fall 2011 semester in which FAMU went under the scope of the BOG, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and received attention on a national level after the hazing death of drum major Robert Champion Nov. 19 in Orlando, Fla. The focus of reviews in the past has been perceptions, judgments and ratings by
Week
3
Biden to talk Facebook is going public education Christian Allen Correspondent
For the first time ever, there’s much anticipation about Facebook considering going public. CEO and Founder, Mark Zuckerburg is projected to be worth $24 billion if selling shares to the public becomes a reality for daily users. Recording artist, Drew Jenkins says Facebook for him is a great promotional tool. “Facebook going public for me as an artist is a big help because I have access to about 6,000 people worldwide through my Facebook page. So I have people in France, Iran and Norway listening to my music and see my music videos through Facebook,” said Jenkins. The social-networking company would be ranked among the largest public companies in the world, alongside major businesses such as McDonald’s and Bank of America. Facebook’s value
Jorge Rodriguez-Jimenez Editor-in-Chief United States Vice President Joe Biden will be coming to Florida State today with Under Secretary of Education Martha Kanter to discuss tackling rising college tuition costs. In correlation with President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address, Biden will be touching on the reforms Obama challenged Congress to explore. “As part of a continuing national dialogue on the issue, the Vice President will discuss the importance of college and the steps the Administration has taken to keep college affordable in Florida and across the country,” read the press release dated Feb. 3. If the reforms pass through the Congress it will be the first time in U.S. history that the government has tied federal campus aid to responsible tuition policies. “In today’s global economy, a college education is no longer just a privilege for some, but rather a prerequisite for all,” as outlined in the press release. “To reach a national goal of leading the
Associated Press
world with the highest share of college graduates by 2020, we must make college more affordable.” The event starts at 11 a.m. and is being held in the FSU basketball training facility, located at 520 W. Madison Street.
Jorge Rodriguez-Jimenez famuannews@gmail.com
is set to range anywhere from $75 billion to $100 billion. Facebook is estimated to make $5.7 billion alone in ad revenues this year. Many aren’t concerned about privacy but more about making money which has become an intrical part of life.
Facebook is currently in the process of filing paperwork that would deem the site a public company. This will result in more advertising and coupon offers available to its users. David Marshall, a senior in the school of business, explains his perspective. “I think it’s great, it did wonders for Google when they went public. The IPO for Facebook as I read earlier would be close to almost $10 billion in initial capitalization and I think they should really capitalize on that point because their trying to make more money,” said Marshall. There is much anticipation surrounding Facebook and what they plan to do in the near future. At the reported price, Facebook’s IPO would be the biggest ever in U.S. internet company.
Christian Allen
famuannews@gmail.com
Trafficking bill moves through committee Spencer Henderson Correspondent A bill to prevent human trafficking progressed through a second committee last week as members of the Legislature moved to stop what is seen as a growing problem in Florida. Legislation sponsored by
Sen. Arthenia L. Joyner, D-Tampa, increasing protection for victims of human trafficking, passed unanimously through the second committee of the senate during the 2012 legislative session. The session took off after the co-introduction by Smith on Joyner’s SB 80. The
bill is specifically aimed at massage parlors holding illegal immigrants and conducting prostitution. A bill by Joyner, which was introduced by Smith, requiring operators of massage establishments to maintain
Trafficking
3
Local
National
International
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Ray Willis earned a double-double, scoring 25 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, to lead North Carolina Central over Florida A&M 78-61 on Saturday night.
CHICAGO (AP) — Roosevelt University is offering a class on the Occupy movement. Thirty-two students are enrolled in the University’s “Occupy Everywhere” class. It’s a three-credit political science course that looks at the movement that started last summer .
SABANA DE LA MAR, Dominican Republic (AP) — Sixteen bodies have been recovered and 11 people have been rescued in waters off this coastal town after an overloaded boat carrying migrants from the Dominican Republic capsized, rescue officials said Sunday.
Index
Teaser Sports
The Lady Rattlers basketball team made school history scoring more than 100 points Saturday against Noth Carolina Central University for the first time since 1995. They continue their 13-game winning streak and look toward the future against North Carolina A&T tonight.
News
Opinions
LifeStyles
Sports
Page 1......Facebook goes public Page 1......Human trafficking bill Page 3...... Natural gas car unveiled Page 4......Tallahassee Marathon Page 4......HIV-AIDS awareness Page 4......Film success forum
Page 5......Baseball is my life Page 5......A deeper history Page 5......A proud heritage Page 6......Ladies making history Page 6...... Tennis beats Tulane Page 6...... NCCU beats Rattlers
MonDAY, February 06, 2012
WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM
famuancalender@gmail.com
Calendar Events and Announcements Announcements Feb. 9
February 2012
The FAMU Anime Club will be having a general body meeting Thursday, Feb. 9 at 8 p.m., in Room 111 of the architecture building. This week the club will be showing “Anohana.” For $1 students can enter the weekly viewer lottery. The winner will pick anime episodes for the next meeting. There will be theater seating, surround sound, and free cookies. For more information, contact Allika Williams, at famuanimeclub@gmail.com.
The FAMU Electoral Commission announces the spring 2012 Declaration of Candidacy. Students may officially declare intent to pursue an elective office on Feb. 6-8, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., in AL Cooper Conference Room located in OSA. For more information, please contact the Electoral Commission at famuec2011@gmail.com.
Feb. 10 FAMU’s Music Entertainment and Industry Students Association will be releasing its second album titled, Love Notes. The album is compiled of mostly R&B and some hip-hop tracks that are entirely composed, written, produced and recorded by FAMU MEISA students. The album release date is Feb. 10. This LP will only be digital and can be downloaded via the internet.
The 10th Annual Florida Conference of Black State Legislators invites you to join them in their quest to rid voter suppression. The conference will be from Feb. 8-11. For more information and ticket prices visit www.stateofblackflorida.com.
The RIMS Program is looking for mature and dedicated individuals to teach classes as well as serve as resident assistants during our six week summer residential program for high school students. For more information, please attend our Meet & Greet on Wednesday, Feb. 29 at 6 p.m. in the TRIO Academic Support Center, located in the Old Physical Plant or call 850-561-2109 or 850-412-7695.
Classifieds Employment Bartenders Wanted!!! $250/day potential. No experience necessary. Training provided age 18+ okay. Call (800) 965-6520 ext. 189
To place an announcement in the Calendar, email your submission to famuancalendar@gmail.com at least two days prior to the desired publishing issue. All submissions must include the student organization along with information in paragraph format to include “who, what, when and where.” A contact number and e-mail address is required to correspond with the individual submitting announcements. If you do not desire that number to be published with the announcement, indicate so in your e-mailed submission and provide an alternate method for readers to obtain more information. If you do not follow the paragraph format then your submission will not be able to be published.
MonDAY, February 6, 2012
WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM FAMUANNEWS@GMAIL.COM
3.News
Car drives on alternative gas Delmarshae Walker Correspondent Florida State University officials unveiled a new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) car in effort to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil. “The unveiling of the Compressed Natural Gas car shows that Florida State is pushing for something better for the economy,” said Corey Shirley, a senior Special to The Famuan business management and real estate The new compressed natural gas car will join student at Florida State. “This initiative the fleet of Florida State University vehicles could lead to bigger development in the university’s Material Research Building future.” and learned about the technology exactly Gerome Ogeris, an FSU Alumni said, from Honda CNG experts. “The vehicle will have a positive impact “The Compressed Natural Gas car is a on the community because it would new and cool addition to the universities reduce our dependability on the current research development,” said Larry resources we have and also reduce the Edwards, a senior international affairs amount of pollution we create.” student at Florida State. “It’s healthier According to the Florida State for our environment because it burns University Office of Research, the CNG cleaner than gasoline and it’s healthy for car, a Honda Civic, produces 60-90 our ozone.” percent less smog producing pollutants FSU’s CNG car initiative involves a and 30-40 percent less greenhouse gas partnership with Leon County Schools, emissions. United States Environmental the city of Tallahassee and Proctor Protection Agency has called it the Honda. Until local public stations are cleanest internal combustion vehicle on constructed, Leon County Schools and Earth. It also costs considerably less to the city allow the university to use their fill the tank (estimated half the price of existing CNG facilities to refuel the car. regular gasoline) and it uses a fuel that is Proctor Honda was active in getting the almost entirely domestic. car to Tallahassee in order for Florida The Office of Research in a statement State researchers to begin the project, said that it’s time to move beyond the according to the Florida State news site. To learn more about the FSU CNG debate and get behind the wheel of a car, visit http://www.research.fsu.edu/ potential game changer in our nation’s naturalgascar/. energy dilemma. Florida State’s Office of Research collaborated with American Honda to build the environmentally attentive vehicle from the start to finish. Students and faculty got a chance to watch the unveiling of the CNG car at the
Delmarshae Walker famuannews@gmail.com
Caucus fights for voters’ rights Janice Eusebio Correspondent
The 2008 presidential election showed the biggest turnout in young and minority voters America had ever seen. Few remained involved and engaged politically say black elected officials. In 2011, more than a dozen states passed new voting restriction laws hindering minority participation at the polls. In an effort to unite to fight recent moves to legalize “voter suppression”, the Florida Legislative Black Caucus and the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators present the 10th annual “State of Black Florida” conference Wednesday through Saturday. This year’s theme is “Protecting Our Votes, Preserving Our Voices.” “It means a lot because this body definitely represents the interests of African-American students as well as the masses,” said Marissa West, a fourthyear pharmacy student, who is also senate president. “They’re able to reach—as far as their opinions are concerned—Gov. Scott or anyone else who doesn’t necessarily think in terms of how to help the African heritage.” Rep. Mia Jones, chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus, said that the annual gathering brings together experts, leaders and citizens, to ensure their constituents are informed on important political issues. “This year’s event is especially important because for the first time we will be uniting African-American professional and civic organizations against the ongoing attacks on our voting rights,” Jones said. The conference begins Wednesday evening, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m. in the Capitol’s fourth floor House Chambers, with the Annual Distinguished Lecture Series and Reception. This year, Charles Ogletree, director of the Houston Institute for Race and Justice at Harvard Law School, will be the keynote speaker.
Ogletree’s 33-year career includes serving as a public defender in the nation’s capital, representing professor Anita Hill, and teaching both Barack and Michelle Obama as students at Harvard. “My personal reasons for participating are not only to gain insight about the problems that we face, but to network and meet the people who fight to serve us better,” said Antorris Williams, a fourthyear public relations student. Williams, a first vice president of the Student National Alumni Association, said SNAA will be volunteering their services to the summit as well. The week’s events include free informative workshops and receptions, networking opportunities, a town hall meeting and a unity rally. The conference concludes on Friday, with the annual luncheon and gala. Proceeds go toward college scholarships and other important causes. “Students can make their voices heard. They can make sure that they have the right to vote because that’s an essential part of being an American,” said Martine Lunis, a fourth-year political science student. Lunis is the account manager for the Florida Legislative Black Caucus in the PRodigy PR Firm and a member of the Hatchet Pre-Law Society. Lunis said Hatchet is also working to facilitate the conference. Many student organizations are volunteering for the promotion, preparation and facilitation of the “State of Black Florida” conference and encourage everyone to get involved: “Get involved and informed. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter,” said Edward Meriwether, a fourth-year pharmacy student and member of Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, Inc. “Spread the word and check out the events. Afterwards, stay actively involved in politics, especially with policies that directly affect us,” said Meriwether.
Janice Eusebio
famuannews@gmail.com
Trafficking valid work authorization documents for each employee who is not a United States citizen, may change the amount of money they generate. “This change makes it clear that the state of Florida will protect any person at risk of becoming a victim of human bondage or being forced to engage in illicit sexual activities,” said Joyner. “The legislation creates vitally important issued identification.” Supporters of the bill like Sen. Christopher Smith, D-West Palm Beach, said the bill will give more teeth to the law and make it harder for massage parlors to practice illegal activities. “They’re bringing in women from other countries,” said Smith. “Under false pretenses sometimes for housing them for a couple of days and saying you have to pay it off.” When referring to the problem, Smith said human trafficking in Florida is no different from your average pimp in the street. “It’s the old pimp game just rewound,” he said. Smith said owners of these massage parlors are getting women and using them for more than giving massages. “These women are basically being held captive. They have nobody they have no family and they get forced
Week members of the BOT regarding progress on goal achievement, strengths and qualities the president brings to his role as president and the future professional development and suggestions for improvement. Trustees use a scale from one to seven to rate each aspect of the president’s role. In a Jan. 6 interview, National Alumni Association President Tommy Mitchell said, “some of those things that are coming up are going to make it difficult for him,” said Mitchell, “Frankly, I don’t know exactly what the tone is going to be, particularly since the board has been divided, so I really don’t know what to expect,” said Mitchell. Mitchell called FAMU’s current state a glass half full, glass half empty situation. “Depending on which way you look the institution certainly has gotten some recognition, unfortunately the Champion case has put a damper on some of the
The Famuan Sen. Arthenia Joyner, D-Tampa, sponsored a bill that protects victims of human trafficking
into prostitution at these massage parlors.” According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office there were nine humantrafficking cases in 2011, none of them resulted in charges filed. Smith wants to make the owners of massage parlors provide some type of proof of citizenship when authorities ask for it. “When law enforcement goes in they can go in and ask for identification and ask
for proof that you are in the country legally now,” said Smith. According to the state’s Senate Criminal Justice Committee, the approval was needed in order to clean up Florida’s streets. Under the new bill, the penalty would increase from a maximum of 15 years in prison to 30 years.
recognition that we’ve gotten but the institution has still being recognized as an outstanding college,” said Mitchell. “If you’re going to blame the president for some of the problems, you have to equally give him credit for the achievements.” More recently, FAMU has come under scrutiny by the American Civil Liberties Union after Ammons announced at a mandatory safety forum that the induction of new members into student organizations would be suspended. “The suspension will give us the opportunity to receive recommendations of the anti-hazing committee,” said Ammons at the forum held Jan. 31. In a letter to Ammons Feb.3, Executive Director of the ACLU Howard Simon requested a copy of the suspension and any statement issued regarding the ban, calling the university’s decision to halt intake a potential infringement of the student’s First Amendment rights to freedom of assembly. Derek Newton, spokesman for the ACLU
of Florida said that it is still unclear whether student’s rights have been infringed upon, but there is concern about student’s rights to assembly. “We’re not there yet,” said Newton, “We’re certainly are not taking the position that student’s rights are being infringed upon that’s why the first step was to request more information. We’d like to see the policy. We’d like to be able to discuss it with some experts within our organization and maybe ask some followup questions.” Newton said there has been no response yet from FAMU, although it is still early. As part of the university’s response to the BOG, FAMU has named Interim Vice President of Audit and Compliance Richard Givens as the liaison to the Board. Givens is a certified public accountant, according to FAMU spokewoman Sharon Saunders.
Spencer Henderson
famuannews@gmail.com
Karl Etters
famuannews@gmail.com
Apartment incident leaves four injured Marie Eustache Deputy News Editor
The Tallahassee Police Department is investigating a Sunday afternoon shooting at Shaker Heights Apartment involving at least four victims. “I was across the street praying when I heard a door being kicked down; I looked up and saw a boy kicking the door, went in and I heard shots fired,” said Antonio Duncan, a fourth-year criminal justice student from New Orleans.
Police said shots were fired and at least one individual was stabbed. Duncan said four black males ran down the stairs from an apartment and sped off in a gray Nissan Altima. Four individuals were admitted to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. Their condiditons were unknown Sunday evening. Check thefamuanonline.com for more.
Marie Eustache
famuannews@gmail.com
Monday February 6, 2012
WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM
FAMUANLIFESTYLES@GMAIL.COM
4.LifeStyles
Marathon runners endure Denecah Nickerson Correspondent
The sun was barely on the horizon when about 900 runners started onto St. Marks Trail for the 38th Annual Marathon and Half-Marathon on Sunday. This year marked the race’s highest completion rate. Runners finished the lengthy courses, despite high temperatures and humidity levels. Fewer than 10 percent of registered runners failed to show up. Marking the event’s lowest no-show rate. Both marathon and halfmarathon runners started out on St. Marks Trail, but separated as runners completed the 26.2-mile marathon or the 13.1-mile half-marathon. Both courses were primarily flat and semi-shaded by canopied trees. The race concluded on the Florida State track. Tallahassee residents Jay Silvanima and Nancy Stedman, husband and wife, served as race directors. Silvanima has been the race director for the past six years and said he was thankful for the support of the local community. “We had so many helpful volunteers,” said Silvanima. Tallahassee resident Linda Zingale, 65, served as an event volunteer. Members of Zingale’s church, Epiphany Lutheran, distributed cold water to runners and spectators as they crossed the finish line. “It felt good to be supportive,” Zingale said. “You can see people feeling accomplished as they cross the finish line and it
Advice on succeeding in the film industry
Shortly behind Kandie was second-place marathon runner Matt Flaherty, 26, from Chicago. “It’s a gorgeous course. I really enjoyed the experience,” Flaherty said. Like Solomon, Flaherty said he was not prepared to run in such high temperatures, but was satisfied overall with his performance. Several Florida A&M students feels good to be a part of attended this year’s halfmarathon. Anthony Scavella, 20, a senior political science student from Miami, participated in the half-marathon alongside two other cadets of FAMU’s Army ROTC unit—Pete Falcone, 19, a sophomore physical education student from Ft. Myers, Fla. and Mason Marshall, 21, a senior political science student from Miami. Scavella admits he grew weary during the 13-mile trek, but was encouraged by other runners to keep going. Denecah Nickerson The Famuan Falcone said he used this halfMore than 900 runners participated in the 38th Annual Tallahassee Marathon and marathon as training for an Half-Marathon. upcoming run he’ll complete in March. Thorvilson beat the standing very flat and fast,” Thorvilson “Hydration and stretching are record by more than three described. “The people along that.” key,” Marshall advised longAdditionally, Silvanima minutes. As she finished, the route were extremely distance runners. acknowledged the large Thorvilson attempted to slap supportive.” Paramedics from Leon First place male and overall number of talented runners the clock reading her recordCounty’s Emergency Medical setting time. Although she marathon winner Solomon who travelled to participate in Services were stationed along missed the celebratory move, Kandie, 34, visited from this year’s race. both routes and at the finish spectators continued to cheer Albuquerque, N.M., to complete “This year, we had some of the line alongside the FSU Medical the run. Kandie is originally fastest elite male runners that her on. First Response staff to quickly Just three weeks ago, from Kenya. He said he enjoyed have ever entered this event,” handle emergencies. completed the running the course despite the Silvanima said. “We [also] had Thorvilson The less-than-ideal weather Olympic Trials in Houston, high temperatures. a course record broken for the conditions caused several so she said she was worried “I’m looking forward to female record open.” heat strokes, but no one was her Tallahassee Marathon coming back again,” Kandie Leah Thorvilson, 33, from seriously injured. Little Rock, Ark., set the record performance would either be a said. “The people here are so huge success or huge fatiguevery warm, very kind and very for fastest female marathon generous and the stations were runner in the history of the related failure. Denecah Nickerson “The course was nice; it was very well-organized.” course. famuanlifestyles@gmail.com
A race to combat HIV/AIDS
Kristin Broner Lifestyles Editor
Do you think you have what is takes to be the next Spike Lee or Tyler Perry, or do you just need insight on how to make you mark in the film industry? Well fret not. More than eight memebers of the film industry will share their experiences and pathways to success at Turner Auditorium at Tallahassee Community College on Wednesday, at 8 p.m. Among the distinguished professionals will be Akil Dupont, Florida A&M alumnus, and Student Emmy winning short film director and cowriter and Robert Stevenson, a hair stylist for major movies as well as actors like, Denzel Washington and many others. He has also been the personal stylist for Samuel Jackson for more than 12 years. So whether one wants to be a director, writer, stylist, professor, or publicist interested in the film industry this is the forum for you. From secrets to insights everything you want to know or question or concerns one may have will be covered at the event. For more information visit http://www. tallahasseefilmfestival.com/ or contact Pamela Tolson at (850) 412-5211 or pamela. tolson@famu.edu.
Kristin Broner
famuanlifestyles@gmail.com
Duresny Nemorin The Famuan Yolanda Bogan, and members of the Naval ROTC pose for a picture after placing first in ‘The Amazing Race.’
Duresny Nemorin Correspondent About a half a dozen student organizations participated Saturday in ‘The Amazing Race,’ to promote HIV/AIDS awareness on campus. ‘The Amazing Race,’ coordinated by Sharronda James and Weschester Junior of Students Against the Spread of HIV/AIDS, Access to Rapid Testing (SASHA-ARTs) and Yolanda Bogan, Ph.D. of the Office Counseling Center, was designed to bring awareness of HIV/AIDS in the black community. The event was designed to promote physical activity, inform participants of the affects of HIV/AIDS in black communities, as well as bring awareness to Black HIV/AIDS day on Tuesday. Aaron Lancaster, president of The Amine Club, said he was
looking forward to “Bragging rights and monetary prizes.” Lancaster has visited South Africa and knows first-hand on how this epidemic is affecting the black race. There were nine stations around campus. The teams began at the Set, and their first destination was the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences building. The participants had to decode the names of HIV/AIDS cocktails, which are combinations of three or more medicines taken at one time to keep the individual infected with the disease healthy. Troy Harris, a fourth-year business administration student, vice president of Student Government Association and member of Beta Nu chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was glad to know that so many people were passionate about the subject of HIV/AIDS.
Harris was excited that they found a creative way to inform students about the topic, unlike the typical “Room filled with board and pictures.” For most of the participants, station six was the most intriguing because of the condom demonstrations. Two members from each team had to demonstrate how to properly put on and remove a male condom, and if they did it incorrectly the SASHA-ARTs volunteers would show them the proper way. Tia Gilmore, a fourth-year computer information system student and member in Naval ROTC Rattler Battalion, said the jump ropes were the most difficult tasks for her. She still enjoyed the ‘Amazing Race’ and hopes that it takes place again next year. The first place prize went to the NROTC members who received $300. Second place went to Alpha Phi Alpha, who
received $200 and FACES Modeling Troupe came in third place and received $100. SASHA-ARTS and the Office Counseling Center greeted each team with lunch. Professor Andrew Skerritt, from the School of Journalism and Graphic Communications, spoke to all the participants about his novel “Ashamed to Die: Silence, Denial and the Aids Epidemic in the South,” and the effects of HIV/AIDS in the Black community. Skerritt advised every student in the room that though the HIV/AIDS epidemic is an uphill fight the, “winning begins with you. Be educated, stand for what you believe… have fun, but be responsible and make the conscious decision that you will protect yourself before you leave home.”
Duresny Nemorin
famuanlifestyles@gmail.com
WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM
MonDAY, February 6, 2012
Baseball season is my time of year
We must look deeper Khristanda Cooper Copy Desk Chief
the time. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying learning about these pioneers every year is not pertinent, because it is. Not just for us, but for the generations of young AfricanAmericans after us. However, what I wonder about are those individuals behind the scenes? The people who were not in the spotlight who we don’t hear about but made huge contributions and strides in our culture. There are plenty of people we don’t know about, who like Dr. King, have added to our history. For instance, the men who worked with Dr. King that carried on his legacy after he died. No, I’m not talking about Jesse Jackson. I’m talking about the other individuals who worked with him, such as the Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth. There’s so
Karl Etters News Editor
I am a happy man. I have neither fallen into a large sum of money, nor have I found the love of my life. No, I am happy because finally after a long, mysteriously warm winter, football season is over and the real sports, baseball and basketball, are thrust into the spotlight once again. I am a Seminole fan at heart. As a Tallahassee native, it is almost instilled at birth that one is going to be a ‘Nole, and I am no exception. But with the promise from football head coach Jimbo Fisher for an above average year, and then subsequently logging a less-than-stellar football season, an 8-4 record and a win against Notre Dame in the Champs Sports Bowl, the ‘Noles left this fan and many others feeling like we got the raw end of the deal. Thank you Jimbo. Now, the reasons why I can’t wait for February, March, or April. In March, the NCAA basketball tournament starts and with Florida State on a seven game winning streak with big wins against Duke and North Carolina, it is a good possibility that Leonard Hamilton and the number 25 ranked squad will be heading to the Sweet Sixteen if they keep it up. The middle of February is the beginning of FSU baseball, my favorite time of year. As a long-time fan and a long-time player of the sport, I have a soft spot for baseball. This is when my year turns around. April marks the beginning of the Major League Baseball season, an event that usually leaves my roommates spinning from my constant need to watch what they call “the slowest sport alive.” I watch close to 100 professional games a year. Add in the numerous college games and that number skyrockets. There is something magical about the laziness of baseball fans lounging in the grandstands, enjoying sunflower seeds and good conversation instead of counting seconds off a clock. Baseball season brings out the best in me. The sun shines brighter; the sky seems more blue than usual and my mood changes for the better. I am convinced it is because I will no longer have to hear football dominating the airwaves. It gives me a chance to reflect and to sit back and enjoy the time passing, until I hear the crack of the bat.
Karl Etters
famuanopinions@gmail.com
FAMUANOPINIONS@GMAIL.COM
February is well underway and so are the many festivities and TV specials dedicated to Black History Month. You know, the many assemblies held at schools all over the nation, the documentaries on PBS, oh and let’s not forget our very own Black History Month Convocation that will be held soon. For the next 23 days, we will be seeing is essentially the same old thing we see every year. We learn about Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and Rosa Parks all
much that we don’t know. And all we have to do is look more into things. We need to research and share what we find. For this month, no, for every month, I think as a culture we should delve deeper in our history. We learn and teach the same things so often that seems as if that’s all there is. But there is so much more to be learned. I encourage each and every one of you to find someone in our history that we don’t know much about. You can find somebody and research what they endured and what they contributed to the struggle of equality and freedom. Once you have done that, share what you find. I know I will.
Khristanda Cooper
famuanopinions@gmail.com
Editor-in-Chief: thefamuaneic@gmail.com Jorge Rodriguez-Jimenez Managing & Multimedia Editor: famuanlive@gmail.com D.A. Robin Copy Desk Chief: thefamuancopydesk@gmail.com Khristanda Cooper News Editor: famuannews@gmail.com famuan.metro@gmail.com Karl Etters Deputy News Editor: famuannews@gmail.com famuan.metro@gmail.com Marie Eustache Opinions Editor: famuanopinions@gmail.com Angie Meus Deputy Opinions Editor: famuanopinions@gmail.com Breanna Rittman Lifestyles Editor: famuanlifestyles@gmail.com Kristin Broner Sports Editor: famuansports@gmail.com Brandon Lee
Political Takeout
Deputy Sports Editor: famuansports@gmail.com Frank Peterman Photo Editor: famuanphotography@gmail.com Keenan Doanes Deputy Photo Editor: famuanphotography@gmail.com Jasmine Mitchell Visuals Editor: jeffrey1.morris@yahoo.com Jeffrey Morris Deputy Visuals Editor: Ashley McCray PR Coordinator: famuancalendar@gmail.com Chakiara Tucker Program Coordinator: Valerie McEachin Adviser: andrew.skerritt@famu.edu Andrew Skerritt
Larry Wright, The Detroit News
Our ancestors struggles helped set us free Sharell Williams Correspondent
Two years ago, Florida A&M was not my first choice for college. Like some blacks, I didn’t think FAMU was on the same level as University of Central Florida or University of South Florida or even Florida State. I didn’t know the bountiful opportunities this school offered. I was advised to be cognizant of the HBCUs I was interested in because obtaining degrees from there didn’t hold much weight or the schools just weren’t accredited. However, I’m glad I decided to apply to FAMU anyway because it was one of the best decisions I ever made. What I appreciate most is African-American history being
a requirement at this university. I wasn’t always fully aware of the many contributions AfricanAmericans made in this country. My knowledge of our people gives me a better appreciation for where blacks are today and why we must continue to strive for excellence. President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Condoleezza Rice, Fredrick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, Charlotta A. Bass-- just to name a few--- are blacks that rose out of the ashes. They crossed borders, beat the odds and became inspirational forces. Although we’ve overcome the power of our oppressors, it is my belief that we still have not reached that mountaintop. We have become our own oppressors and we have a lot to work on. Too many of us have taken for granted the freedom we have today; the freedom that is unconstitutional to withhold from anyone; the freedom that so many of our ancestors fought, marched and died for. The freedom we have today
is because of the blood, sweat and tears of blacks. For us to not take the opportunities to better ourselves is a slap in the face. Every time we choose to accept the low expectations this society has of us we’ve taken steps back as a race. We’re a very powerful, intelligent race of people. Black people need to look beyond the entertainment world for a source of inspiration and look at the many blacks who have made a difference in this world economically, historically and politically. They matter too. Support each other. Put more interest in education; impart wisdom on our youth, and stop tearing each other down. We must eliminate the “crab-in-the bucket” mentality and stop defaming our own race. Let’s unify, grow and empower one another so we can see the full manifestation of our power.
Sharell Williams
famuanopinions@gmail.com
How would you feel if minorities couldn’t vote? A.) I would be upset B.) I wouldn’t care C.) I don’t know
Fax 850.561.2570 Editor-in-Chief 850.561.2569 Secretary 850.599.3159 Newsroom 850.599.3011/ 561.2569
The Famuan, an Associated Collegiate Press Association non-daily finalist, is published on Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring semesters. The opinions do not reflect the administration, faculty or staff of the University. The editorials are the expressed opinions of the staff and columnists. The Famuan is funded partially by activities and services fees.
MonDAY, February 6, 2012
WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM
FAMUANSPORTS@GMAIL.COM
6.Sports
Lady Rattlers write history Clarence Fowler Staff Writer
As the women’s basketball team sat on 98 points, Rattler fans waited anxiously for the next score. Guard Keturah Martin then passed the ball to Patrice Collie, and the rest was history. The Lady Rattlers (16-5, 9-0 MEAC) reached a school record set in 1995 for points scored as they thrashed the North Carolina Central Lady Eagles (2-20, 0-9 MEAC) 102-66, extending their winning streak to 13 games Saturday in the Al Lawson Center. This was the first time the Al Lawson Center had seen at least 100 points scored in a game. Four players scored in double figures. Flirting with a triple-double, senior Antonia Bennett posted 27 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. She also collected six steals. Bennett said the team is difficult to beat when it puts forth the effort that it did. “We could be very dangerous,” Bennett said. “We just need to stay humble and keep executing. We plan on keeping it like this.” The Lady Rattlers never trailed in the game. They began the game with a 9-2 run and quickly padded the lead to double digits eight minutes into the game. They clicked offensively as well, capping the first half with a score by senior Kimberly Sparkman just before the buzzer. That gave the team a 52-29 advantage at halftime. Head coach LeDawn Gibson’s team applied its full court pressure defense against the Lady Eagles to force turnovers. In the first half, they forced 16 turnovers
and scored 24 points off of them. Gibson said she was pleased with the way her team’s defense disrupted the Lady Eagles offense. “The effort that they showed on defense tonight was incredible,” Gibson said. “We weren’t going to stop them every time, but I loved the effort.” The team continued its intensity during the second half. The lead stretched to as much as 38 points midway through the half after senior Qiana Donald made her first three-pointer of the season. Donald, who scored 23 points and nabbed 11 rebounds, said that that she was able to shoot since the team had a sizable lead. “We had talked about it and coach had given me the green light to shoot it,” Donald said. With 2:39 remaining, the Lady Rattlers were within six points of the century mark. Kaylin Foreman scored inside, then Bennett scored off of a turnover. When Collie scored, the team hit the century mark and the entire arena erupted in cheers. Senior Tameka McKelton and Sparkman also scored in double figures, scoring 21 and 15 respectively. As a team, the Lady Rattlers made more than 50 percent of their shots and scored 50 points in the paint. The Lady Rattlers will look to extend their winning streak as they compete Monday against the North Carolina A&T Aggies in the Al Lawson Center.
Clarence Fowler
famuansports@gmail.com
Kennan Doanes The Famuan The Florida A&M women’s basketball team displayed a thrilling offensive performance Saturday, scoring 100 points for the second time in school history.
FAMU tennis overthrows Tulane 5-2 Angel Neal Correspondent
File Photo The Famuan The Florida A&M men’s tennis is putting the pieces together after experiencing a rocky start on the season, defeating Tulane for its third-straight victory Friday.
The Florida A&M men’s tennis team (3-3) had a rough start on the season but is slowly creating team chemistry. With a winning mindset, the Rattlers left nothing but net against the Tulane University Green Wave Friday (2-3), earning a 5-2 victory. This feat marked FAMU’s third consecutive victory, as it defeated both Southern Methodist and Florida Gulf Coast 4-3 last weekend. The Rattlers fell short to Tulane in recent meetings but came through this season, defeating nationally ranked Idan Mark in singles and doubles competition. “We took down a nationally ranked player. We worked really well as a team and came out very strong,” said Salif Kante, a junior from Senegal, West Africa. “We had a good
game, all we wanted to do was win and we did.” FAMU surged to a 3-2 win in the doubles category, as Levon Clark and Kante defeated Idan Mark and Joe Young. Mark and Young mounted a comeback late in the match, but Clark and Kante resisted with an impressive team display to earn a victory. Temuera Asafu-Adjaye and Takura Happy defeated Coby Kramer and Cedric Rutsaert. Tulane’s Rodrigo Rappaccioli and Shaye Wali defeated Chidi Gabriel and Fabrice Myrtil. “We played well, in doubles we came out strong and played great even though we had to play through horrible windy weather,” said Levon Clark, a junior from Orlando, Fla. “Winning the doubles helped build our momentum. I really think this by far is the best match that we played really good so far as a team.” In singles competition,
Kante sealed a 6-2 victory in straight sets in the second spot. Gabriel, in the third spot, won 6-3, 6-4. Happy won 6-2, 7-6 in the fourth spot, and Lavon Clarke won 7-6, 7-4 in the fifth spot. Adajye lost to Takuma Oheshi in the sixth spot and Myrtil lost to Adam Bernstein Assistant coach Michael Moore said the Rattlers clinched a victory in one of its most challenging matches this season. “We knew going into this match that it would be one of our toughest of the year. For the first time everybody played well, even though it was tough we came out with a deserved win,” Moore said. FAMU will return to action Saturday in Thibodaux, La. to take on Nicholls State at 1 p.m.
Angel Neal
famuansports@gmail.com
North Carolina Central Eagles claw Rattlers 78-61
FamuanSports@Gmail.com
Interested Writer?
Brandon Lee Sports Editor Offensive woes were more than the Rattlers basketball team (617, 4-5 MEAC) could overcome, as it fell 78-61 to conferencerival North Carolina Central (1111, 5-4 MEAC) Saturday night in the Al Lawson Center. FAMU entered play looking to build off its notable 6862 victory against BethuneCookman last weekend. But it did just the opposite, committing 18 turnovers, shooting a lowly 40.8 percent from the field and displaying a lack of determination late in the game. The Eagles have won three of its last four meetings with FAMU and now lead the all-time series 5-1. “We didn’t put forth the effort tonight,” head coach Clemon Johnson said after the game. “I felt like we were still celebrating the Bethune-Cookman win, and it’s a team still trying to grow up. Unfortunately, it caught us. We kind of went through the motions for 35 minutes tonight and played for five minutes. “We were hoping to win, not playing to win.” Offensive struggle would plague FAMU late in the first
half, as NCCU jumped out to a 35-29 lead with 2:34 to go. The Rattlers would trail for the remainder of the half, entering halftime with a 40-33 disadvantage. Stevens paced the Rattler offense with nine points and seven rebounds during the first half. Yannick Crowder chipped in nine points and four rebounds, while Lewis connected for seven points. On the half, the Rattlers shot 56 percent (14-of-25) from the field, 80 percent (4-of-5) from the free-throw line and 16.7 percent (1-of-6) from three-point range. NCCU would continue the pace during second half, jumping out to a 60-44 advantage on a Ray Willis layup with 8:24 remaining in regulation. The Rattlers’ defensive performance down the stretch was no match for the Eagles’ 51.9 percent shooting from the field, as they would control the tempo for the game’s remainder to stamp a 78-61 victory. “I was frustrated on defense because I don’t think we were playing hard on defense at all,” Stevens said. “Our intensity, our energy, our whole morale just went down as a team,” Crowder said about the team’s final minutes of the game.
Keenan Doanes The Famuan Offensive struggles doomed the Florida A&M men’s basketball team Saturday night, as it fell 78-61 to NCCU.
Crowder tallied a team-high 17 points, seven rebounds and four blocks on the game. Stevens supported on offense with 15 points and 11 rebounds to secure a double-double, while Lewis posted 10 points. Eight players scored in all. As a team, FAMU concluded the game with 72 percent shooting from the line (18-of25) and an underwhelming 17.6 percent from beyond the arc. Willis posted a game-high 25 points and 10 rebounds for
the Eagles, recording a doubledouble. Sutton followed with 23 points and eight assists and Jeremy Ingram chipped in 10 points. FAMU will look to redeem itself in conference play Monday night against the North Carolina A&T Aggies in the Al Lawson Center at 7:30 p.m.
Brandon Lee
famuansports@gmail.com