The Collegian 2-18-15 by gpc collegian

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February 18, 2015 VOLUME 31 NO.3 Visit online at www.collegiannews.com

Modern-Day $lavery Beware: College students targeted for sex trafficking

Photo illustration by Tosin Ogunnoiki, The Collegian. By Evie Palmer Staff Writer

he Thirteenth Amendment abolished slavery in 1865. Yet, 150 years later, the human trafficking industry is a 32 billion dollar industry. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) states, “It’s sad but true; here in this country, people are being bought, sold and smuggled like modern-day slaves.” Students like Shamere McKenzie, a former student at St. John's University fall into exploitation while in college. McKenzie describes colleges as

Around the Perimeter

“hot spots” for traffickers. As an average college student, McKenzie came upon some hard times and even lost her track and field scholarship. Low on self-esteem and cash, she became desperate; so when her trafficker, her boyfriend, suggested the opportunity to make extra money by stripping, she complied. McKenzie began a downward spiral of physical and emotional abuse and became trapped into much more than merely stripping with her pimp threatening her family and inflicting physical and emotional pain if she tried to escape.

“Once you are in, it is difficult to get out because of the fear and emotional manipulation,” said McKenzie. After 18 months of abuse, McKenzie got away. Now, she is the CEO of an anti-trafficking foundation, Survivors of Slavery. There are still many young women out there just like McKenzie who are trapped in a life of slavery. Because of the rise of human trafficking nationwide, everyone, especially students, needs to be aware of the type of victims that these traffickers are looking for. “I think [students] should get

1960's Symposium

Centerfold: Introducing the GPC Consolidation Implementation Committee

6-7

involved in church activities or groups [on campus] that will keep them more so out of that arena, so they won’t be so susceptible,” said Sergeant Carson Whatley of GPC Public Safety. “I encourage women here to walk in groups.” Traffickers may promise money to those who need it or give attention to those who lack self-esteem. Some may even drug their targets. “I worry that self-esteem issues play into it, if the girls are not outright abducted,” said Dede Weber, Clarkston Enrollment and Registration Services staff member. “I think there is a component

of individual responsibility, but I also think it’s society’s responsibility to provide the information and to identify the most vulnerable group.” Whatever the case, pimps primarily look for women to victimize, which only emphasizes the need for college women to be alert and on guard. Students should not be on their phones while they’re walking, according to Whatley. Nonetheless, precautionary measures exist for student safety. “If students feel at danger, call campus security by dialing extension 3940,” said Whatley.

Paper or Plastic?

Album Reviews

How to dunk like Mike

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

h i s edition marks the third edition of the Spring 2015 semester. I hope everyone is ready for midterms and for this cold weather. Personally, I have been sick onand-off with this weather change. Weather and current events have consumed the news lately. Last week, three Muslim students were shot at UNC: Chapel Hill. Mainstream media vaguely covered the victims of the shooting. According to media sources, the conflict occurred because of a parking dispute. This was said to be an outof-character instance for the perpetrator. The media seems to have dropped the subject after that. I don't know what bothers me more: the Muslim community being targeted or fellow journalists not covering the incident comprehensively. Locally, many of you have heard about the consolidation now. Stay

February 18, 2015 PHOTO OF THE WEEK: February celebrates Black History Month. The Collegian commemorates Martin Luther King Jr. and his contributions to the Civil Rights feat.

tuned, and keep reading the Collegian for more updates. Know that you have the power to change an institution. You have the power to make your voice heard. If the Collegian can help you do that, let us know! Thank you for the rewarding experience of being the editor of the Collegian and representing you, the students, as your student newspaper editor. If you have something to say then be sure to contact us at gpc. collegian@gmail.com. We want to make your voice heard. I would like to thank each and every one of you for reading the content we put so much effort into producing. We hope to exceed your expectations. The Collegian appreciates any feedback from our audience. If you wish to submit a letter to the editor, please e-mail it to gpc.collegian@ gmail.com Also, if you have any story ideas, comments, or questions, please contact us at gpc.collegian@ gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!

Photo by Tosin Ogunnoiki, The Collegian.

Farhin Lilywala

Editor-in-Chief

HEALTH AND WELLNESS CALENDAR 1/263/4 1/273/5 1/273/5

Decatur (M/W): Kickboxing

Clarkston (T/TH): Piloxing

2/34/9

Clarkston (T/TH): Yoga

2/23

Clarkston (T/TH): Weight Room Orientation

Decatur (T/TH): Butts & Guts

Information provided by GPC Health and Wellness website

Classified Isagenix Launch Party Find Your Optimal Health and Wellness with the help of Core Nutrition Learn the best way to get Fit, Feel Healthy and look Fabulous Boost Energy /Performance Live life on Your Terms Set your own schedule Earn $500 - $1000/wkly Join us to hear from the Experts on how you can get started owning your life today! FOR MORE INFORMATION Call Joyce Bell LPN @ 678 907 0780 Visit www.startyourlife.com to see what the Party is about. EDITOR IN CHIEF Farhin Lilywala MANAGING EDITORS Alem Giorgis Naya Clark

DESIGNERS Farhin Lilywala Jack Lester EXECUTIVE EDITOR Open

SPORTS EDITOR Ben Abrams

CAMPUS NEWS EDITOR Open

PHOTO EDITOR Tosin Ogunnoiki

COPY EDITOR Open

ALPHARETTA MANAGING EDITOR

Open

DECATUR MANAGING EDITOR Open

DISCLAIMER The Collegian is the student newspaper of Georgia Perimeter College, and is a designated public forum for students, faculty and staff to share their opinions. Comments and views expressed herein are those of the individual writers, and not those of the college or the Collegian as a whole. We strongly encourage students to submit articles and artwork for publication. Single copies are free. More than three copies per person are $.50 each. Editors reserve the right to edit for grammar, space, appropriateness and length. Not all submissions will be published. To speak with a staff member, please call 678-891-3382 or e-mail us at gpc.collegian@gmail.com.

STAFF

February 18, 2015

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Campus News The wealthy rule all at the A Place for Prayer GPC Muslim students share their World Economic Forum dilemma of fulfilling an obligation By Maurice Raeford Staff Writer

he World Economic Forum, annual meeting when top entrepreneurs, politicians and celebrities from around the world come together to decide the direction in which they want to drive the economy, recently took place in Davos, Switzerland. This meeting consisted of about 25,000 attendees. Celebrities are invited, because they have capital to end a lot of world problems. This year’s issues were gender inequality, digital economy, and climate control. Bill Gates said at this year’s forum that they are also working on a cure for AIDS that should be ready by the year 2030. These forums are when the wealthy come together and help stabilize the world. Gender inequality The leaders hope to help bridge the income gap between men and women. Women as of now make up about 50 percent of the work force. In many homes in today’s society women are the breadwinners for the home.

It is average that women earn about 77 cents to every dollar that a man earns. When factored out over a year, this is about $23,000. The number of cents to dollars is even lower with Latin and African American women. Digital economy The digital economy is considered the new economy or the internet economy. More and more transactions are being done over the internet. The youth unemployment rate has gone from 15 percent to 60 percent. Digital technology affects everything from education to farming. The digital economy has done a lot of good for the economy, but there have also been negative consequences. There has been a growing social inequality, a loss of privacy and a growing surveillance society, and a massive structural unemployment, just to name a few. Climate change There has been an acceleration in climate change, with 2014 being the hottest year to date. At the forum they are coming up with a way to move towards a more livable world. One of the things that the UN came with is

to increase the price of carbon, the U.S. and China also agreed to use less carbon. However, there has been backlash for these meetings because the top 85 percent make more than the bottom 50 percent of the world. They address gender inequality but last year’s forum was only 14 percent women. People also see these meetings as a way for the rich to buy elections and political power. Recently, the Koch brothers invested 896 million dollars in the 2016 election. The Koch brothers are one of the wealthiest families in the world who own a few tissue brands along with other necessities in life. The brothers are worth about $41 billion each. This can be dangerous because then the middle class vote will increasingly start to lose influence in political matters. With only the top percent controlling political system then the gap continues to spread between the rich and poor. The forum is basically a yearly convention set in place to alter the way of living.

State of the Art Atlanta: An all-around artful event with more to come By Naya Clark Collegian Staff

hen State of the Art Atlanta showcased at the Fuse Center on Jan. 21, the event sparked the eyes and ears of young music, fashion and art enthusiasts. State of the Art featured artists including Eugene Waleda, whose tranquil personality differed from his electrifying artwork. With his vivid colors and dream-like illustrations, Waleda says he gets a lot of his inspiration from “life and drugs.” “I guess it’s half-traditional and half-digital,” said Waleda. Two up-and-coming clothing lines “Lyfted” and “Wisdom” were also featured. The practical, yet unique clothing caught the first sights

of those who walked into the busy event. State of the Art Atlanta was founded by four artists, Lanous Wright, Chibs Onyeneho, Alexandra Hernandez and Amos Hudson. Hudson compares the artistic team to a basketball team, stating that each of them have a part in State of the Art in order to reach their ultimate goal of being well-known Atlanta artists. As the venue at the Fuse Center quickly started to fill in attendance, music by featured artist Benny Jetts added an urban ambiance to the occasion. The group discussed their talents and what inspired them. Onyeneho and Hudson are both talented photographers who love to capture beautiful things, according to Hudson.

Whereas, Wright and Hernandez specialize in illustrations but focus on different aspects of each. “I personally like realism. I try to get as much detail to make it look like the real thing,” Wright said. Hernandez focuses her illustrations on women. “I’m intrigued by female anatomy and beauty that comes from the female attributes. I also love colors that are kind of pop artish,” said Hernandez. This event is not the last for State of the Art Atlanta. According to Wright, the date for the next event is not confirmed, but he’s expecting it will be in early August. For more information on the next State of the Art event, contact stateoftheartatlanta@gmail.com.

NEWS BRIEFS By Naya Clark and Sabrina Jamil Collegian Staff

21st Century Literacies Bootcamp When: Feb. 21 9 a.m-12:30 p.m. Where: Clarkston campus, CE and CC buildings and in the CE Atrium. How: Nine workshops discussing 21st Century Literacies such as blogging, tweeting, and creating or sharing media, information table and equipment demo

The Chattahoochee Review Guest Author Series

Who: The Chattahoochee Review presents a poetry reading by Philip Lee Williams, a 1986 winner and 2014 Townsend Prize finalist When: Feb. 25 at 1-2:30 p.m. Where: Dunwoody, NB-2100/2101 How: Free. Light refreshments will be served. Books will be sold and available for signing at the end of the reading. Contact Alicia Johanneson at 678-891-3275 or at alicia.johanneson@gpc.edu

By Fatou Ndow Staff Writer

s one walks through the GPC Dunwoody campus, it is quite noticeable that it has a very large and diverse student body with students from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. This has often been regarded by many as one of the outstanding qualities that make GPC a great place to learn. The majority of its students are inclusive and responsive, especially through most of the student clubs and organizations that are available. A club which has been regarded among the most active as well one of the most recent is that of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) at the GPC Dunwoody campus. MSA President Danial Ghazipura explains that MSA’s purpose is to unite the Muslim community at the GPC Dunwoody campus through a variety of yearround activities and social events. “We are a club that is committed to enhancing the spirit of understanding, and dialogue here at GPC,” said Ghazipura. “Everyone is welcome to our meetings and to participate in our events as we are open and always ready to serve the campus community.” However, due to the growing number of Muslim students at GPC, MSA’s growing concern is for the Muslim students on campus to have a proper and designated place for prayers while on campus. Muslims are required to perform prayers within a limited time before the next prayer time approaches. “The prayers can occur in a group or in an individual manner, and it usually takes 8 minutes or less,” said Ghazipura. “But the challenge has been the difficulty of not getting adequate space to pray which mostly forces us to pray in potentially unsafe areas like the parking lot or in between bookshelves along the library. Though it is very uncomfortable, our options are limited.” Many Muslim students agreed that they struggle when the time comes for them to pray.

GPC Campus MovieFest is back!

“I am a full time student at Clarkston, and I do not drive. I am here three days a week from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m., meaning that I must perform my prayers here on campus. It is very difficult trying to find a space to pray without having to be interrupted or being stared at by other students,” said Jameela Warren. The lack of a location to pray has caused many students to choose between being late for prayer or being late for class. Some students have to leave school premises to pray and then drive back. “It is a very tedious process,” said Ghazipura. “We have tried almost everything, from booking a room in the library to looking around for empty classrooms. Both are not always readily available, and when they are, we must always make room by moving tables and chairs around in order to make space for others, but even this takes so much time.” Many non-Muslim students are also disconcerted by the matter. “I am not a Muslim, but it seems like is much more of a need than it is a want,” said student Emily Stewart. “It would be great if GPC can allocate a designated prayer space or interfaith meditation room for its students. GPC respects diversity, and I think this would be a great way or example for them to cater to their students in this respect.” Numerous other schools and universities have designated interfaith prayer rooms for their students by simply allocating a room which is an inexpensive investment. “Due to these various facets of Muslim prayer, having access to an allocated prayer room for Muslims on campus would eliminate the problems that Muslim students at GPC face in observing this mandatory act of worship,” said Ghazipura. The MSA plans on approaching GPC administration and the Dean of Student Affairs in hopes that a great depth of consideration will be given to this matter of having a nondenominational prayer space established.

Georgia Women's Conference

When: Feb. 26 at 9 a.m. Where: Clarkston Cole Auditorium How: Free. The top 16 films will be showcased. The top four films will move on to the national event in Los Angeles, Calif.

What: Women's Perspective in Art, Scholarship and Politics. When: March 19: 12-7:30 p.m. March 20: 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Where: Clarkston campus How: Not exclusive to women.

Scan the code to visit the website.

Scan the code for more information.

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

February 18, 2015

Campus News

Get hired: Resume Drugs, just for you tips that can get you Obama addresses precision medicine that cures individual conditions

that dream job By Olujimi Oyenekan Staff Writer

t’s two months into the New Year, as well as the semester. Everybody has their own set of goals to accomplish before their deadline. For many students, a prominent factor in these goals is money. How do you make more money? How do you save more money? In order to earn more money and to save more money, you need to have a better-paying job. For a company to hire you, you need to have a better resume. The resume is the first real play in the job market, and these are the most important pieces of information recruiters attend to in the screening process: Dr. Gulshan S. Harjee works at the Student Health Center and believes in Photo by Justin Fredericksen, The Collegian. patient-centered care.

By Justin Fredericksen Staff Writer

uring President Obama’s State of the Union address, he briefly introduced the Precision Medicine Initiative (PMI). According to White House authorities, this plan will “revolutionize how we improve health and treat disease.” For years the medical field has used a model of “blanket medicine.” Doctors prescribe treatments according to the ailment, not the specific patient. Doctors have struggled with managing the effects that certain drugs have on the individual. “Precision medicines are those directed toward a precise defect in the primary cause of a disease,” said David Kroll, a biomedical educator and natural products cancer pharmacologist. In order to begin this revolutionary brand of medicine, the government will need a database of molecular and DNA information to work from. Doctors will have your specific information stored and will be able to reference that information in using a treatment designed specifically for the individual. Imagine a world where people can go to the doctor, and instead of being prescribed a medicine that works for three out of five patients, they are prescribed medicines that work specifically with their genetic makeup. This notion has the potential to minimize guesswork and treat disease efficiently. For any person who has suffered the side-effects of medicine and felt the treatment was not worth dealing with the

effects, PMI has the potential to eliminate the guesswork. PMI not only incorporates the use of personal genetic information but the storage of it in some government database. “PMI will leverage advances in genomics, emerging methods for managing and analyzing large data sets while protecting privacy, and health information technology to accelerate biomedical discoveries,” said a White House press release. Privacy is a concern that many people face in the advancing technological age. Although this revolutionary medical initiative has the potential to alter the way modern medicine treats the individual, questions are raised on the security of storing information. Biology major Donata Bursos said, “Precision Medicine is logical, and a good idea.” Nonetheless, she worries about protecting genetic information. These are real concerns that every individual must take into account. Although PMI could benefit Americans, these are honest questions that should be addressed. There needs to be a trust that the people of America can rely on the government to honestly use this information for the betterment of its citizens and no other purpose. “It’s only okay if you give permission to store the information,” said health science major Miranda Matani. Matani like many people would want reassurance that genetic information will stay private. These are exciting times for the medical field which will yield new technologies that could forever change the way we deal with diseases and prevention.

• Name and Branding:

Make yourself identifiable. Your name becomes your brand.

• Current contact

address and information:

Be sure to include email addresses and phone numbers. Include any professional social media accounts you have here. Also, list any professional websites or profiles that you may have.

• Educational History: This is where academic history shows potential employers your commitments, your major and your GPA.

• Wo r k e x p e r i e n c e s :

Employment history and information should be entered; duration and responsibilities are fair game. Many people alter their resumes based on the job. If you are applying for a lab technician job, you don’t need to put that you worked at McDonald’s in high school.

• Skills

and

references:

Information like computer programs you’re familiar with and professional contacts should be put here. On average, recruiters spend about 30 seconds reviewing applications. That being said, focusing on the aforementioned points should give the organizations a well-rounded idea of who you are and what you have to offer in the allotted time. Companies and organizations are now seizing the opportunity to preview applicants by LinkedIn, Indeed and other similar networking sites. Getting on-board with this approach helps improve employment chances and is a step towards a better financial situation. Now that you’re better armed, it’s only a matter of time before the phone rings for an interview.

February 18, 2015

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Features Be a flower child at the 60's Symposium Photo illustration courtesy of Diana Cora.

By Joseph Richardson Staff Writer

he winter comes to its last stanza, a warmer song plans to come to fruition. This song includes many scientific breakthroughs, civil rights and an abbey road that leads straight to the 1960’s Symposium. The Clarkston campus will present a much anticipated symposium displaying the many aspects and ideologies of the 1960’s. The time warp begins this week and ends on Friday, Feb. 20. The symposium will be held in the JCLRC Auditorium, CL 1000 from Monday until Thursday, while

the free concert will be held in the Cole Auditorium. The symposium will have something for all students of various studies and interest. “You just don’t want to pick any major, you want to learn the history of the major before you jump into your field of study,” said Lauryn Sanford, an undecided GPC student. History professor and event organizer Dr. Paul Hudson believes the 1960’s Symposium plays a key role in students’ lives. “This campus (Clarkston) opened around 1964, and it was first called DeKalb College,” said Hudson. This symposium will celebrate

50 years of the college by reminiscing and reliving the past, according to Hudson. “Many of history’s unresolved problems are affecting us today,” said GPC student Donovan Stanley. “The 1960’s Symposium can help us to look back at an era that strived to address certain conflicts in the world.” Rebellion and fighting the social norm was something that the 1960’s really brought to full display. Jim Engstrom, Greg Okoro and Marc Zayac will present the “Decolonization and Student Rebellion” seminar on Thursday at 10 a.m. On Thursday, there will be a

presentation on “Selma and Voting Rights in 1965” from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Nicole Cromartie will be speaking on what made Selma such a significant part in the 1960’s. Cromartie is from the recently built National Center for Civil and Human Rights in downtown Atlanta. “Like my momma always told me: learn your history so you’re not likely to repeat it,” said student Mikayla Burney. As the sun starts to creep below the horizon on Friday, seismometers will go haywire as Louder Than Dirt takes center stage at the Cole Auditorium starting at 7 p.m.

The band is led by the revered Dr. Greg Kelley and other talented musicians that will successfully take you back to the 1960’s itself. The band will play various songs from the 1960’s in tribute to the many great musicians of that time. They will not be the only one under the spotlight that night. A 1960’s Mustang will be on full display for everybody and anybody to come witness. The event will be first come, first serve. “Pretty soon GPC will no longer be GPC; it’ll be Georgia State. And one day we’ll be having a symposium on today’s times,” said Hudson.

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

February 18, 2015

Introducing the GPC Consolida ti By Farhin Lilywala Collegian Staff

t the end of January, University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby

India Blackburn

charged 21 members of the GPC community to represent GPC on the GPC/ Georgis State Consolidation Implementation Committee.

John Clower

Twenty-one members from Georgia State’s side joined them. The respective presidents of the two institutions chose

the committee members. They come from varied educational background and have many different views on the consolidation.

Here’s what they had to say about their charge and who they are.

Debra Denzer

Jamie Fernandes

Position: Assistant Dean of Student Services, Alpharetta Quote (goal): “The students are our first priority. We have a great opportunity to expand access while improving rates of student success by providing increased flexibility of course offerings, high quality programs and services.

Position: Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Quote: "If I feel that some discussions are taking place that are not in the best interest of those experiences that we provide for students, then I'm going to speak up."

Position: Associate Professor of English as a Second Language and GPC Faculty Senate chair Quote (to students): "The education that you receive should not be negatively impacted at all this consolidation, though some processes may change."

Position: Assistant VP for Financial and Administrative Affairs Quote: "I'm excited. This is a great opportunity for efficiency and for students to learn from the GSU model. My concern is the scope that we are dealing with."

Diane Hickey

Mark Hoeting

Paul Hudson

Kara Kennebrew

Position: Associate Vice President for Financial Affairs Quote: "I am very mindful of the impact of possible changes on GPC students and am determined to help make this merger as seamless as possible from a student perspective."

Position: Assistant Vice President and Chief Information Officer Quote: “Our success will be measured in how effectively we create a pathway to four-year degree completion for all students of the new institution.”

Position: Professor of History Quote: “There are times to be bold, and there are times to develop things that work. With the collective wisdom of everyone on the committee, we can truly make history”

Position: GPC Staff Senate President Quote: “My overall concern is how well staff will fare through this process. We will have to work through the process and see the final outcome. ”

Sally Robertson

Jeff Tarnowski

Ingrid Thompson-Sellers

Position: Immediate Past Chair of the GPC Faculty Senate, Current Chair of the USG Faculty Council Quote: “Students should definitely keep up with how the consolidation is proceeding via the GSU website. If you have questions or concerns, contact the student representative first but I am certainly available for students should they wish to talk.”

Position: Vice President for Institutional Advancement Quote: “We just want to make sure that the access mission is preserved. As students, someday you'll look back and see what a historic time it is to be a GPC student.”

Position: Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs Quote: “My concern, at this point, is that lines of communication are wide open. Students need to make sure that they are in the loop, that they know what's going on. Be concerned. Make sure that you are connected to the right forums that will give you the right information.”

Rob Watts

Position: Interim President, GPC Quote: “Two goals: First, that it is transparent for students, who will now have more pathways to success, in academics and in life. Second, that 50 years from now, at the college’s 100th anniversary, the students, faculty and staff will say that this transition ushered in a new golden age for the college.”

February 18, 2015

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

a tion Implementation Committee Photos and information by GPC Newsroom and Farhin Lilywala.

Susan Finazzo

Sheila Garland

Position: Dean of Institutional Effectiveness and SACS liaison Quote: "Students are witnessing something truly historic. We have a fantastic opportunity to create a truly unique institution that will address the needs, foster the success and degree attainment of students."

Position: Associate Professor and Dean of Health Sciences Quote (goal): “To engage in successful outcomes that provide seamless access and opportunities for advancement in a changing higher education environment.”

Barbara Obrentz

Dan O' Leary

Position: Chief Public Information Officer and Director of Marketing Quote: “My hope is that we listen intently and engage as many people in decision-making process as possible – so that the entire college community feels engaged in the collaborative process.”

Position: Chair of the GPC Foundation Board Job: President and CEO of O’Leary Partners, Inc. Education: B.B.A., Finance, Georgia State University; Certified Commercial Investment Member.

Scott Hardy

Todd Hendricks

Position: GPC Alumni Association President and GPC Facilities Operation Director Quote (to students): “Find a place to make a difference. You will have a bigger toolbox because of this consolidation.”

Position: Chair of the GPC Promotion and Tenure Committee Quote: “Both colleges need student populations to remain high to justify their work to the Board of Regents and to the state in general. I don't believe that any policy that hurts students will be implemented.”

Sri Rajasekaran

Jim Rasmus

Position: SGA President, Newton Quote: “I believe that my role is to represent the voice of the entire student body of Georgia Perimeter College, and to identify student members to serve on the work groups.”

Position: Executive Director of Human Resources Quote: “Based upon what we know at this time, I only see upside for students in terms of what this can become. More choices, over time improved processes and support, and greater access for individuals.”

Julius Whitaker

Position: Executive Director of Library Services and Interim Director of Policy and Governance Quote (role): “To think outside the box, be open to new ideas, move away from the idea of what has been done in the past to what should be done in the future that will result in a new and unique institution that will Members of the GPC/GSU Consolidation Implementation Committee gathered on Jan. 30 for their very first meeting. ensure student success.”

Photo by Farhin Lilywala.

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Our Voice Je suis contre Boko Haram? (I am against Boko Haram) By Rangadevi Chakraborty Staff Writer

he shootings at the offices of satirical newspaper, “Charlie Hebdo,” in Paris shook many up, surprised many others and enraged innumerable people. According to mainstream media, the attackers targeted the organization because they published cartoons of Prophet Muhammad. Twelve journalists were killed in these attacks. Meanwhile, in Baga, Nigeria, a terrorist group named Boko Haram also carried out various attacks, allegedly killing up to 2000 people. However, hardly anyone writes or comments on the latter of the two. For what reason do the events in Nigeria almost go unnoticed while such a large number of the population has shown support for the victims of the Paris shootings on the internet? ISIS and Al-Qaeda circulate the news channels regularly, but what is Boko Haram? The organization was founded in 2002 and initially focused on powerfully opposing Western education, hence the name. After 2009 they began operations in order to create

an Islamic state, similar to the operations that ISIS is currently performing in Syria. Around three million people are affected by Boko Haram’s local dictatorial behavior to date. Yet this injustice received little coverage compared to other international news. CNN reported that it is not easy to determine the truth in Nigeria, when most other information seems to leak through social media first in a 140-character Tweet. Politicians and government officials whose jobs are to represent the best interests of their regions often have no idea what really happened. Senator Maine Maaji Lawan has said that at least 70 percent of the area he represents is in the hands of Boko Haram, including Borno, and Adamawa, two provinces in the north east of Nigeria. In both cases, the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar,”literally translating to “God is great,” is a phrase often repeated during attacks and in newscasts. The media portrays the entire religion of Islam, a religion founded in peace, and its followers as vicious and vindictive. How Islamic are these attacks really, and are the perpetrators really Muslim?

February 18, 2015

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Our Voice Album Reviews

Grassroots Rap and Eclectic Hip-Hop

Joey Bada$$ in ‘B4.Da.$$’ Lupe Fiasco in ‘Tetsuo & Youth’

B4.Da.$$ (pronounced Before Da Money) is the debut studio album by American hip-hop artist Joey Bada$$. It was released on Jan. 20, also his 20th birthday, by Cinematic Music Group and Relentless Records in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as being made available on iTunes.

By D'vale Weston Staff Writer

his album by an amazing a r t i s t is something that we must all take a listen too. Joey Bada$$, a hot young talent with an old school flow offers a Photo courtesty of website of gritty, witty and deeply Joey Bada$$. lyrical alternative to “I love the album,” said current mainstream hip-hop. Dasha Miller, a student His long-awaited at the Newton campus. “I debut album has understand him and love impressed many critics, the ‘old-school’ flow that reaching Billboard’s Joey Bada$$ gives.” 200 at number five and

Tetsuo & Youth is the fifth studio album by American rapper Lupe Fiasco. The album was released on January 20, 2015, by Atlantic Records and 1st & 15th Entertainment. It was promoted by the Tetsuo & Youth preview tour, which took place from Nov. 2, 2013 to December 15, 2013.

selling 53, 990 units in his first week. Bada$$ updates the rough but smooth vibe of golden age rap for the millennial generation, rocking of flow that is equally inspired by the introspective rhythms and intricate street tales. Bada$$ bring some- Photo courtesty of website of thing completely new Lupe Fiasco. to our generation, suc“He took time off to gain cessfully intertwining old-school rap with a who he really is and find himself, and he also just modern-day flow.

By D'vale Weston Staff Writer

upe Fiasco is an incredible underground rapper who happens to have a mainstream career. From his label dust to his shifting musical ambition, he rebels in his duality in “Tetsuo & Youth.” This artist is someone you must pay attention too. His lyrics and bars transcend when came up with a different look a new type something listening to him. With such knowledge he new for us to reflect on.” gives a comprehensive

work of artistry. Fiasco is someone that this young generation needs to hear to understand what's really going on in the world around us. What I love about Fiasco is the fact that he took a temporary hiatus and came back, with full force to give us an album that is unsurpassed by any artist of our era.

Music Review

HBCU athletics receive I’m feelin’ blue the leftovers of Integration The classic genre: The blues By Ruth Green Staff Writer

wo things I enjoy about Atlanta are its wide variety of venues for food and music. One of my favorite genres of music is the blues, which according to “A Brief History of the Blues” by Ed Kopp, is a form of music that “originated on Southern plantations in the 19th century and is generally accepted that the music form evolved from African spirituals, African chants, work songs, and field hollers…” As quiet as it’s kept ‘the blues’ is the springboard for such musical genres as rock and roll, jazz, and R&B. There is a place in Atlanta on Piedmont Avenue known as Fat Matt’s Rib Shack that is always a hot bed of activity on most nights of the week. Over the years, it has become an Atlanta landmark. It has been featured on the Food Channel for having some of the best barbecue in the state of Georgia, perhaps nationally. Owner Matt Harper started the business more than 20 years ago, as a hole in the wall. Twenty odd years later, it has grown tremendously in popularity. Fat Matt's Rib Shack was built on BBQ and the blues. On just about any given day there is live music by local musicians.

I was there recently and had the pleasure of enjoying music by local bluesman, Larry Griffith. Griffith leads his band on guitar and sings and plays most anything from blues, jazz, rock and roll and R&B. As a lyricist, Griffith penned an interesting and hilarious song entitled “I Do, I Did, I’m Done,” an ode to the institute of marriage that I found very entertaining. There are several venues around Atlanta in which you can experience the Larry Griffith Band regularly. He engages his audience, he’s funny and always thoroughly entertaining. One thing I love about the blues is even though some of the songs can be sad, they have a way of making you feel good at the same time and have a way of lifting your spirits. If you decide to treat yourself to a night out anywhere in Atlanta, Fat Matt’s Rib Shack should be a consideration because along with the mouth-watering food, there is always great music. Keep in mind: there is usually a line going out the door and sometimes around the corner, so you should arrive early and plan on standing in the line, but it moves quickly. So, go for the food, and stay for the music–you will not be disappointed.

By Jack Fisher

Collegian Staff

alter Payton and Jerry Rice, to name a few, are two names synonymous with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) sports teams. The aforementioned athletes were college stars over two decades ago. Fast forward to 2015: the golden age of HBCU athlete stardom has long ended along with the prestige of the players represented. An entire piece of black history has been transferred into the present and future triumphs of major universities present and future. Nevertheless, the production and occurrence of marquee players hasn’t ceased. The athletes have simply decided to choose other universities besides a HBCU in enormous numbers. Through integration, black athletes have migrated to major universities. This migration has been fueled

by access to larger fan bases, larger endowments, greater booster club funding, and far better chances of notoriety—awards, television and the Internet. In turn, majority universities continue to boost revenues off the efforts of athletes they refused to recruit until they saw benefit to. College athletics is a large business, with all of Division I’s top 120 teams generating over $10 million through sports, none of which are HBCUs. Without substantial revenue, HBCUs have no chance of advancement through upgraded facilities and school infrastructure. Lack of money has already proved hindrance to HBCU South Carolina State, who will battle school closure in search of restabilization money. Athletic revenues wouldn’t have seen the school dip into this state of emergency. The “grass is greener” approach has left HBCU athletic programs with a depleted talent pool to choose from and to place on the field.

So much so that certain HBCUs endure mammoth beatings from large, non-HBCU universities, which lure players with the promise of lucrative, six-figure paydays. HBCUs only receive top-tier talent when majority universities no longer need certain players. In the case of top recruit and freshman standout Isiah Crowell, the University of Georgia dismissed him after a string of offthe-field incidents. He landed on his feet at Alabama State, a HBCU. It is comical that top high school athletes snub HBCU for fear of hurting chances of a pro career. With the NFL only drafting less than 300 players per year against 10,000 football players, the logic in the decision is of weak value. No community thrives without its most talented individuals. To change HBCU culture, it needs a major athlete of color to change the status quo. Whoever he or she is, would be an adrenaline shot in the arm.

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COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Sports

GPC coaches crushed by closing of athletic department

Coach Waldon (right) said that he did not hear the news of the consolidation from anyone at the school. Photo by Ben Abrams, The Collegian. Coaches from different athWhat confuses the coaches By Ben Abrams letic programs shared similar is the decision to announce the Collegian Staff feelings of disappointment about consolidation with GSU and the this semester being the last one disbandment of GPC athletics oaches from GPC’s for sports at GPC. after the spring semester of the athletic programs James Waldon, women’s basschool year began. share their disapketball head coach, was melan“You tell people in the middle pointment about the disbandcholy about the end of GPC’s of their season that you only have ment of the athletic department athletic program but did ac15 games in your career left, and after the spring semester. knowledge that the tide was that’s not right,” said Dennis. “It’s sad and surprising. This changing for colleges in Georgia. “They could have handled the has been my whole life, both my “It’s kind of sad in a way GPC situation a lot better.” parents worked here, I graduated served a major role in the comWaldon said that he did not from here and worked here. So munity. It has for 50 years gaven even hear the news of the conit’s pretty sad and shocking at the a lot of student the opportunity solidation from anyone at the same time,” said Chris Ward, an to pursue higher education, but school. He originally heard about assistant coach for the men’s basthese are the kind of times we live it from a former player who asked ketball team. in,” said Waldon. him if the rumor was true. The Ward’s colleague and fellow Ray Edwards, the coach and coach was not even certain about assistant coach David Dennis was coordinator for the Wellness the news until his wife asked him also somber about the legacy that and Recreation Center at the about it. is about to be abandoned by the Clarkston campus looked at the Coaches know that the botschool. situation with the glass half-full. tom line is that moves like the “I think it’s very unfortunate; “I think it’s going to be a big consolidation are about business, a lot of people spent a lot of loss to the current student popuand that includes making decihard time putting in the energy lation that they don’t have a cursion that will have a negative imand effort building the programs rent team to support, but I think pact on certain people. to where they are,” said Dennis. it’s a good opportunity for those “I understand that it’s a busi“I’ve been here for 17 years, and I who will be here in 2016 to supness decision, and it will benefit watched it grow from a very small port the Georgia State athletic everyone overall, but I feel sorry program to a nationally known program which is really on the for a lot of people who will lose program in not just basketball, rise,” said Edwards. their job and may not have retirebut in every single sport.” ment,” said Dennis.

SPORTS BRIEFS By Tosin Ogunnoiki Collegian Staff

MEN'S BASKETBALL

The Jags scored huge wins over Central Georgia Tech (68-58, OT), East Georgia (66-49), Atlanta Metro (62-57), and topseeded South Georgia (75-62). Team captain Ronnie Mays (#2) scored 20 points and aided 11 assists. The Jags' lone blemish was being swept by Chattahoochee Tech (80-72). The recent stretch has improved the Jags to (14-11), (7-8) in the conference and sixth place in GCAA standings. Go Jags!

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

The Lady Jags have split their last six games, defeating Atlanta Metro (7465), Georgia Highlands (76-73), and Chattahoochee Tech (100-22). Team captain Taylor Boyd (#12) scored 19 points and collected seven boards. Defeats were delivered by Central Georgia Tech (72-53), East Georgia (66-60), and Darton State (65-53). The Lady Jags are (13-15), (9-7) in conference play as 5th in GCAA standings. Go Lady Jags!

Information provided by GPC Athletics website.

BASEBALL

The Jaguars had a rocky start to their final season, suffering double header losses to Chattanooga State (4-2) and (5-1), East Mississippi Community College (7-6) and (8-4), Northwest Florida State (2-0) and (64), and Spartanburg Methodist (4-3) and (54). Two wins came back to back over Shorter College JV (4-2) and (11-10). The Jags (2-8) are looking to get the season back on track before defending their GCAA title with conference play on March 3. Go Jags!

SOFTBALL

The Lady Jags have been on a roll with wins over Richard Bland College (10-1), Northwest Florida State (15-9), Palm Beach State (14-9), Blinn College (4-3), and Lamar State (1-0). They were defeated by East Florida State (11-1), College of Central Florida (9-5), Wallace State-Hanceville (9-8), and San Jacinto College-South (76). The Lady Jags (5-4) start coference play March 25. Go Lady Jags!

February 28, 2015

Jump like Mike Ankles key in art of slam dunking

Photo by Ben Abrams, The Collegian. By Temarrio Thomas Staff Writer

or athletes looking to become artists of the slam dunk, start with conditioning and strengthening the body and practicing techniques. Conditioning Training 1. Run the first sprint for 70 yards. Continue to increase distance of each run by ten yards after finishing the previous sprint. Pause after each sprint and rest 30 seconds before starting the next sprint. Go in succession of running 70, 80, 90, and 100 yards then stop after finishing the 100 yard sprint. Strength Training 1. Strap ankle weights around the ankles and jog 30 minutes .This increases ankle strength in 30 days. 2. A proper calf raise starts with the balls of your feet on the bottom step of a flight of stairs

with the heels hanging off the edge. Raise the heels high as possible and hold for two seconds. Slowly lower heels back to toe level and hold again for two seconds. Repeat the exercise daily 20 times for three sets with one-minute of rest in between sets. 3. Stand against a wall with feet shoulder width apart. Bend knees and hips like trying to sit in a chair until thighs are parallel to the floor. From this position stretch arms out and jump high as possible. Repeat jump squats 25 times in sets of three with breaks. Practicing Techniques 1. Practice your vertical leap by jumping to reach the rim without a basketball. Start by using small objects—tennis ball or pair of socks—before graduating to basketballs. Try this for your vertical leaps and your lay ups. Remember to practice with a running start.

SCHEDULE WOMEN'S BASKETBALL

2/18- Andrew College, Decatur, Ga.: 5:30 p.m. 2/21- South Gerogia Tech, Decatur, Ga.: 2:00 p.m.

MEN'S BASKETBALL

2/18- Gordon State College, Decatur, Ga.: 7:30 p.m. 2/21- South Georgia Tech Decatur, Ga.: 4 p.m. 2/25- Georgia Highlands, Decatur, Ga.: 7:00 p.m.

BASEBALL

2/17- USC Salkehatchie (DH), Covington, Ga.: 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. 2/20- Northwest Florida State (DH), Covington, Ga.: 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. 2/21- Northwest Florida State, Covington, Ga.: 11:30 a.m. 2/21 - Cleveland State (DH), Covington, GA.: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. 2/26- USC Salkehatchie (DH), Allendale, S.C.: 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. 2/28- Spartanburg Methodist (DH), Covington, Ga.: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. 3/3- East Georgia (GCAA Opener), Covington, Ga.: 6:00 p.m.

SOFTBALL

2/15- Snead State, Marianna, Fl.: 9:00 a.m. 2/15- Chipola College, Marianna, Fl.: 11:00 a.m. 2/19- Cleveland State (DH), Covington, Ga.: 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. GPC Spring Invitational, Covington, Ga. 2/27- Gordon State, 12:00 p.m. 2/27- Spartanburg Methodist, 4:00 p.m. 2/28- Southern Union Community College, 9:00 a.m. 2/28- Tallahassee Community College, 3:00 p.m. Information provided by GPC Athletics website. Compiled by Ben Abrams, sports editor

February 18, 2015

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

Sports

Final Act in GPC's Athletic History Jags’ Goal: Knock 2015 Outta’ the Park

By Tuneel Speech Staff Writer

he Jaguars begin the 2015 season as defending GCAA champions. A third place finish in the Division I NJCAA tournament (East Central Region) capped 2014. Past accolades mean nothing this year to manager, Jeremy Brotherton as GPC looks to continue its success in 2015. “It’s too early to even think about national championships,” said Brotherton. “Obviously our

goal every year is to get to Colorado and have the opportunity to compete for a national title. There are so many variables that play into getting to Grand Junction (Colo.). ” The team is replacing 31 of the 40 previously active players this year, losing their most valuable players to graduation and Major League Baseball (MLB). Two All-American players, pitcher Dustin Beggs and shortstop J.T. Phillips, were drafted last year. Beggs was selected by St. Louis Cardinals in the 17th round. He enrolled to play for the University of Kentucky before

joining the Cardinals. Phillips who batted .419 with 50 RBIs was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 18th round. “Those two guys were special players,” said Brotherton. “Any time you have to replace two AllAmericans, it’s tough. Hopefully the newcomers can find a way to fill Beggs' and Phillips' shoes.” However, the Blake Cairnes (#16) led pitching rotation is the best Brotherton has seen in his three years at GPC. Other notable pitchers are twotime All-Newnan honoree Robert Massenberg (#18) and four-time

Alcovy High School baseball letter man, Dalton Reagin. The 2015 edition Jaguars will be the final team that plays for the school after GPC interim president Rob Watts announced the athletic department will be dismantled following the spring semester. “I told them, 'In life things are not fair, and this is an example of that.’ I expect them to come out and play hard everyday, ” said Brotherton. The coaches also will be held to high standards this season, as they too are preparing for the next chapter of their lives after the

season's conclusion. “Our job as coaches is to teach these guys as much about the game as possible so the next place they move on to is a little easier,” said Brotherton. “These guys know what is expected of them: play hard, and do the right thing. They will represent GPC in the right manner.” GPC starts the year ranked eighth in the NJCAA national preseason poll and voted to finish second in the East Central region. GPC is looking to swing big and hit hard, so they can end Jaguar baseball with a blaze of glory.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Pierce Ressmeyer. (2013 Season) .303 AVG., .352 OBP., 40 RBIs

LaDonis Bryant. .371 AVG., .479 OBP., 22 RBIs

London Lindley. .361 AVG., .434 OBP., 30 RBIs

KEY POSITION PLAYERS

ON THE MOUND No. Name 16

Blake Cairnes

Position Higlights (9-4), .329 AVG., 10 RHP

Erich Stahl

RHP

Devin Vainer

LHP

HR, 72 RBI, UGA Commit

5 K, 1.46 ERA, Kennesaw State Commit 20 K, 20 saves, Georgia State Commit

No. Name 1

Position Higlights .361 AVG., .434 London Lindley OF

LaDonis Bryant OF

.371 AVG., .479 OBP., 22 RBIs

Pierce Ressmeyer

(2013 Season) .303 AVG., .352 OBP., 40 RBIs

OBP., 30 RBIs

Photos courtesty of GPC Athletic Department.

COLLEGIANNEWS.COM

February 18, 2015