VOTW: November 2019

Bethune-Cookman University • Daytona Beach, Florida

Rapper Lil Durk visits campus

November 2019

Florida Classic tickets now on sale, game set for November 23

By Rennae Morgan Staff Writer

Rapper Lil Durk performing at the All Black Affair in the Fine Arts parking lot during homecoming. See more homecoming highlights inside. Photo by Jaymonte McLeod.

No Honda, no problem

By Nadia Reese Staff Writer

For the first time in more than a decade, the Marching Wildcats band will not be taking part in the annual Honda Battle of the Bands showcase next year in Atlanta.

The Bethune-Cookman University band, which is known nationally and internationally, apparently did not garner enough votes this year. Honda invited all HBCU marching bands to participate in this year’s program.

The “final eight” bands were selected from among 38 bands that chose to participate through a voting process that included fans, band directors, HBCU school presidents and Honda representatives.

The four bands that received the highest number of votes automatically secured their spots in the lineup while the other four bands were selected by the HBOB committee.

What's inside:

Each of the eight bands will receive a $20,000 grant from Honda to support their music education program, as well as an all-expenses paid trip to the Invitational Showcase in January 2020.

“Marching bands are the cornerstone of HBCU culture, and through Honda Battle of the Bands, we are able to bring together students, alumni, fans and supporters in celebration of their incredible talents,” said Steve Morikawa, vice president of corporate relations and social responsibility for American Honda in a release.

For 16 years the Honda Battle of the Bands had been inviting bands from all Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

“The Marching Wildcats have continued to page 12.

Opinion 2

News 3

For many people, the arrival of November signals the change of color on the leaves outside, pumpkin patches with loved ones and Thanksgiving dinner at home with the family.

But for Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats, November means that annual Florida Blue Florida Classic footbal game is just around the corner.

The 40th annual event, pitting the Wildcats against their rival, the Rattlers of Florida A&M University, will be Nov. 23 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.

B-CU athletics has not posted anything on its website, social media and even sent out an email about a guaranteed date of ticket distribution. Savvy students, however, have started buying tickets.

Ashlyn Denson said she purchased a Florida Classic ticket for $15 at the campus box office. "I didn't know they were selling Florida Classic Tickets,” Denson said.

“I just happened to go check and to my surprise they were. I advise

people to go purchase a ticket soon before they sell out."

Tickers also are on sale at the Florida Classic official website. Prices range from $22 to $225 or more, depending on seating, when purchased through Ticketmaster. There is an option to pay on the day of the game at the stadium box office but prepared for price to rise due to the popularity of the game. The attendance at last year’s game, during which the Wildcats beat FAMU 33-19, was 52,142.

Besides the game, the website also is promoting the Florida Classic Consortium Kickoff Luncheon presented by Florida Blue on Friday, Nov. 22.

According to the site, the Classic weekend gets started with players, pep bands, university officials and student leaders gathering to celebrate the season, preview the upcoming matchup and show that Rattlers and Wildcats remain divided on the field but united in the world with this luncheon.

Florida Blue Florida Classic Saturday, Nov. 23 Kickoff 3:30 p.m.-– Camping World Stadium – ESPNews FanFest 11:30 a.m.-Free admission Florida Blue Battle of the Bands Friday, Nov. 22 7:00 p.m. – Amway Center, 400 W Church St, Orlando, FL, 32801 Florida Classic Consortium Kickoff Luncheon presented by Florida Blue Friday, Nov. 22 11:30 a.m. Doors; 12 p.m. Program – Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 10th Annual Florida Blue Florida Classic Career Expo & Diversity Job Fair Friday, Nov. 22 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Amway Center, 400 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801 Florida Classic Night of Distinction Thursday, Nov. 21 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. – Varsity Club at Camping World Stadium

The Stompdown Experience Saturday, Nov. 23 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. – Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Sports 8

A Look Back 10

Features 4-7,9,11,12

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OPINION

November 2019

The Voice of the Wildcats is written, edited and published by members of the student body at Bethune-Cookman University. All opinions are solely those of the author.

Editor-in-Chief Ashlyn Denson News Writers Nadia Reese Sara Wilson Sports Writers Sidney P. Brown John Huger Jr. Entertainment Writers Sayvon Shaw Feature Writers Amber Courtney Ashlyn Denson Tatiana Tyler-Addison Photographers Nadia Reese Sikera Murray Victor Minikwu Jaymonte McLeod

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

Sexual Harassment Is Killing America

By Augustinas Navickas Sexual harassment is a two-word combination that can rarely be left out while describing daily work experience in the life of most women in the United States.

This 1960s American routine, like many other discriminating practices, unfortunately was not left in the past.

The proof of it sits across the nation: starting with media newsrooms, leading up to Hollywood studios and even the White House.

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, “It is unlawful to harass a person (an applicant or employee) because of that person’s sex. Harassment can include “sexual harassment” or unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.” This simple law asks people to treat everyone with respect and keep their hands to themselves.

However, for many people (mostly men) this is asking for too much.

Two years ago author and edu-

cator Michael Eric Dyson visited Bethune-Cookman University to deliver the “State of The Dream Address” in honor of the 50th birthday of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Dyson, while reminiscing about King, focused his message on the issue of oppression and sexual harassment.

He invited men to keep their hands to themselves, their mouths in-check and their minds clear.

While some men are calling women too sensitive or petty, the reality we live in differs. Women are right and the #MeToo movement is real. It’s about time the powerful men of America stop abusing those beneath their status.

It is doubtful that anyone would want their mother, sister, daughter or wife to experience sexual harassment at place of employment; however, it is also doubtful that those thoughts go through the mind of a man as he “accidentally” touches his female co-worker’s leg and calls her sexy behind closed doors.

Sexual harassment, just like racism,

Photo courtesy of Phycology Today.

is a sickness slowly but surely decreasing the quality of life in America and deflating the “American Dream” bubble. To cure this disease, however, we don’t need to look for another King.

We need only look in the mirror and ask ourselves to treat women how they deserve to be treated. Equal.

Augustinas Navickas is a 2019 graduate of Bethune-Cookman University and former editor of the Voice.

Layout Editor Tatiana Tyler-Addison Nadia Reese

Sexual harassment training welcomed on college campuses

Publication Director Dr. Elsie Wanjohi

there is nothing to report.

This “As long as they didn’t touch me” mentality is what allows a majority of harassment cases to go unreported.

It is detrimental to every person on college campuses and schools nationwide should be actively trying to stop and prevent it with Sexual Misconduct training classes.

Kudos go out to officials here at Bethune-Cookman University who recently conducted mandatory Title IX training for the entire campus body.

By Amber Courtney

Sexual harassment is one of the most common and least reported forms of sexual misconduct.

Faculty Co-Advisers While most people know that sexual Prof. Valerie Whitney assault includes rape and unwanted Dr. Keith O. Hilton physical contact, few know what constitutes “sexual harassment.”

PUBLICATION The U.S. Equal Employment OpporMEMBERSHIP tunity Commission defines it this way: “Unwelcome sexual advances, requests The Voice of the for sexual favors, and other verbal or Wildcats is a member physical conduct of a sexual nature of the Black College constitute sexual harassment when this Communications Association (BCCA), conduct explicitly or implicitly affects an individual's employment, unreaCollege Media Advisors Association sonably interferes with an individu(CMA) and National al's work performance, or creates an Asscociation of Black intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment is sexual harassment.”

Journalists (NABJ).

Title IX protects and forbids sexual ADVERTISER harassment toward college students MEMBERSHIPP and faculty. College women ages 18 to The Voice of the Wildcats subscribes 24 are three times more at risk of being victims of sexual violence, according to the 360 Youth to the RAINN Foundation. The group, Send Correspondence whose name stands for Rape, Abuse & to: Incest National Network, is dedicated Editor to stopping sexual violence.

The VOICE, Fine Arts Moreover, a 2006 study conducted Building by the American Association of UniRoom 124 versity Women found that 62 percent 640 Dr. Mary McLeod of college women reported feeling Bethune Blvd. sexually harassed on campus.

Daytona Beach, FL The problem with these statistics, 32114 and with this topic in general, is that Phone: (386) 481most of the time, sexual harassment 2707 goes unreported. Many women feel voiceofthewildcats@ gmail.com that if they weren’t actually raped then

actions were harmful and feel an unmeasurable sense of guilt.

In the same way, lack of education also can lead to even bigger issues for the victim. Not realizing that they have been violated, victims of sexual harassment may feel at fault for what happened to them. Research shows that those who have experienced harassment suffer from stress reactions, such as anxiety, problems with sleeping, depression, lower self-esteem, and even in severe cases, PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sexual misconduct training, there-

"College women ages 18 to 24 are three times more at risk of being victims of sexual violence."

There is no doubt that more education about sexual harassment can make a difference. Not only should students receive information on how to avoid harassing others, but also on what harassment is and how to report it to authorities if it happens to them.

At the same time, this lack of knowledge can create a bad situation for all involved. The assailant is allowed to live in blissful ignorance, causing (perhaps unintentional) harm with the belief that nothing has been done wrong, which further feeds into their delusion. Later, they discover that their

Photo courtesy of iStock.

fore, provides so much more than information about what is right and wrong. It can provide those on college campuses with the ability to make better judgments and to know their rights on how they should be treated.

Education is the key to stopping sexual harassment from harming anyone else.

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

NEWS

November 2019

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Faculty, president celebrate shared governance Voice Staff Report

Members of the Faculty Senate Executive Committee and administrators pose in honor of the signing of the document. The leadership team, seated on the front row (l to r) are Dr. Wayne Shepard, vice chair; Dr. Shams Rahman, representative-elect to the Board of Trustees; Dr. Deborah Freckleton, treasurer; Dr. Helena Mariella-Walrond , provost; Dr. E. LaBrent Chrite, university president; Dr. Joanna Showell, senate chair; and Dr. Angelo Salvo, secretary of the senate. Photo by John Reeves.

Faculty and faculty senators gather with University President E. LaBrent Chrite and Provost Helena Mariella Walrond to commemorate the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Shared Governance. The document, which recognizes the faculty as a partner in the university, now goes to the board of trustees for approval.

B-CU hit with two new lawsuits, ex-CFO claims wrongful termination

By Voice Staff Report

Bethune-Cookman Univerwith interest would rise to sity has been named in two $306 million once the dorms new lawsuits including one were paid for in 40 years. asking for $100 million in The same suit names former damages. college president Edison O. Quantum Equity LLC, the Jackson and former B-CU builder of the two newest administrators Hakim Lucas dorms on campus, filed suit and Emmanuel Gonsalves, this month in U.S. District among others.

Court in Maryland against Meanwhile, Angela Poole, B-CU and Wells Fargo Bank former chief financial officer Northwest N.A., serving as at B-CU, has filed a lawsuit trustee for the institutional against the school. investors, asking for a jury The lawsuit was filed trial and demanding $100 Oct. 22, according to the million in damages, acNews-Journal. cording to published rePoole was hired December ports in the Daytona Beach 2016 by then Bethune-CookAngela Poole. Photo courtesy of The Famuan.

News-Journal. man University President EdThe suits states that B-CU ison O. Jackson and worked officials knowingly made false statements, deabout a year and a half. Before coming here, she faming the company, which has suffered damwas employed as CFO at Florida A&M Univerages to its creditworthiness and lost income and sity and was credited with helping that school new business opportunities. get clear of its accreditation probation.

B-CU sued Quantum Equity and other inInterim President Hubert Grimes lauded dividuals in 2018 alleging deceptive and unfair Poole when he took over in July 2017, and she trade practices, criminal practices and fraud in was cited in a credit rating report as helping connection with the dorms after it was revealed move B-CU forward. Tax returns show she that the price was $85 million and not $72 helped reduce, but not eliminate, the university’s million as previously cited $72 million. The cost losses, the newspaper reported at the time.

A certified public accountant, she alleges in the lawsuit that school leaders violated the Florida’s Whistleblower Act by first demoting her and then not renewing her contract when she pointed out problems including how the school handled grant money, according to the newspaper. College officials declined to comment when asked. The newspaper said the lawsuit makes several allegations, including that B-CU: ‒ Approved spending grant money on expenses specifically disallowed by the grant and internal controls. ‒ Violated federal regulations on government grants, including record keeping. ‒ Failed to timely reconcile accounts related to grant money it received. ‒ Failed to follow budget and procurement policies before making payments to vendors. ‒ Entered contracts without completing the required procurement process.

The lawsuit did not list any specific money amounts, grants or vendors.

Poole could not be reached for comment.

Jackson, meanwhile is the subject of a lawsuit filed by the university regarding money borrowed to pay for the newest dorms on campus.

The situation lead to B-CU being placed on academic probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

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FEATURES

November 2019

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

Wildcat Watch: Halloween movies bring out the ghouls in ‘US’

By Sayvon Shaw Voice Feature Writer Halloween is upon is and so is the time to shine the light on some new and some old fright night movies. Here is a round-up of some that caught the eye of the Voice staff.

“Joker” The newly release film “Joker” is a crime drama thriller that tell the story of how Batman’s archrival became who we all know him as.

The movie opened Oct. 4 and set a box office record for an R-rated film of more than $800 million worldwide in ticket sale in the first 21

though It’s terror is over, it’s wasn’t going to be the end. Believing that It will one day return.

So, to make up for this, the kids make an oath to each other to promise to come together again if It decides to return.

In “Chapter Two,” the kids are now adults and looking to defend themselves from It a second time. Seeing this movie in theaters for sure lots of fun. The movie does have its share of jokes that is certainly there to keep you off your guard so when the jump scares do actually come through.

“It Chapter Two” truly is a good, scary and fun movie that can easily stretch into the upcoming Halloween as an entertaining watch.

“Zombieland 2: Double Tap”

Poster courtesy of filmspell.

days.

The main character, Arthur Fleck, is a failed comedian who eventually is turned on by society. Unable to handle the pressures of the world, Fleck slowly goes insane, turning in Joker, an evil criminal mastermind.

The aforementioned film is a sequel to the original “Zombieland.” The lastest version opened Oct. 18 and as of Oct. 27 it had grossed $47 million in the United States and Canada, and $16.6 million in other territories, for a worldwide total of $63.6 million.

A decade after the events of the previous film, four zombie slayers must yet again face off against zombies (who have evolved since the first movie). With the same directors and writers as the first, this movie is sure to have blood, gore, and even some laughs for you, during this Halloween season.

“IT Chapter Two” This sequel to the 2017 film “It” lives up to the same scares and intensity as the previous movie did. In the first film, the story follows a group of neighborhood kids during a summer, being terrorized by the shapeshifting clown known as “It” (or “Pennywise”).

After weeks of torment, the kids eventually find a way to defeat the clown, but feel as

Poster courtesy of comic book news.

“Us”

Poster courtesy of bookmyshow.

This film is the sophomoric release of director Jordan Peele, following the wildly success “Get Out.” Just like the Peele’s first installment Us went over well with audiences, despite the fear of living up to the magic of “Get Out”.

Poster courtesy of amazon.

After an outing with friends, a family returns to their vacation home, surprised by a strange silhouette they see in their driveway. Unlike any one of them could expect, what was waiting for them was four doppelgangers of themselves! It has been several months since “Us” hit the screens March but it is a scary, terrifying and violent movie that fits in seamlessly with anyone’s Halloween movie playlist.

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

FEATURES

November 2019

Volusia residents turned out for the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk

Walkers gathering at the start line for the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, Daytona Beach FL, Oct. 26, 2019.

Photo by Karen Romero Diaz

Lakiah McBride, Ashley Loncke, members of SISTUHS Inc. and volunteer Dania Jean-Baptiste were among the many who turned out for the Making Strides against Breast Cancer walk at Jackie Robinson Stadium on Oct. 26, 2019. Photo by Nadia Reese.

James, who declined to give his last name, going to the extra mile to show support at the Making Strides against Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. Photo by Karen Romero Diaz.

Team 1507 at the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. Photo by Karen Romero Diaz.

See online photo gallery for more www.bcuvoice.com

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November 2019

FEATURES

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

VOICE editor travels to Spain to cover the world

By Ashlyn Denson Editor-in-Chief

Posing for a picture on a balconey where the classroom was located.

Photo by Ashlyn Denson.

VOICE editor Ashlyn Denson spent part of her summer abroad in a summer program under the auspices of the Institute for Education in International Media. More than 1,200 students from more than 80 public and private universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Turkey and Singapore have participated in ieiMedia programs since 2002, according to its website.

Here is Ashlyn’s story.

nalism, of course. Therefore, it was only right that I chose the program in Bologna, Italy.

Shortly after starting the application, I asked two of my professors to complete a reference letter needed to complete the application.

I asked Professor Valerie Whitney, who has worked with me as one of the co-advisers for the campus newspaper since my freshman year. Additionally, I asked Dr. Elsie Wanjohi, the chair of the mass communications department.

Once those reference letters were submitted, I received a letter shortly afterward from ieiMedia welcoming me to the study abroad program in Bolo-

gna, Italy.

I was overwhelmed with joy and numb to the news at the same time. I never thought I would earn an opportunity to participate in a mass communication internship that studied Hip-Hop and some theater. Everything was just about perfect. The only thing that I knew would be a challenge for me was garnering the funds needed to study abroad.

I did not lose hope.

In November 2018 I applied and was Mike Dorsher, one of the executive subsequently accepted into a mass commu- directors at ieiMedia, helped me with apnication study abroad summer program in plying for scholarships. The first scholarship Bologna, Italy for summer 2019 sponsored I applied for was the Fund for Education

by The Institute for Education in InternaAbroad (FEA) Scholarship. I received a tional Media or ieiMedia. The agency has scholarship through FEA called the NAFSA seven study abroad summer programs that Tamara H. Bryant Memorial Scholarship, cover multimedia journalism, broadcast, a scholarship for public relations African Amerand more. The ican students programs focus on wanting to study media production abroad. Bryant and have taken immigrated to students abroad the United States since 2002. from Rangoon, I chose to apply Burma, in the for the internship 1960s. She set in Italy because, up the scholin addition to the arship to foster mass communicaintercultural tion aspect, it also exchange. explored Hip-Hop A few months and performing after receiving arts. As a mass this great news, communication I applied for the major with a Benjamin A. minor in theatre Gilman Scholararts, I had a great ship and reThe Metropolitan Cathedral–Basilica of the Assumption interest in Hipof Our Lady of Valencia or Saint Mary’s Cathedral of Va- ceived a Gilman Hop, performing lencia located near the Plaze de la Reina (Queen’s Plaza). scholarship, too. arts (theatre) and Not long afPhoto by Ashlyn Denson. multimedia jourter all the good

news I received an email from Dorsher informing me that the program in Bologna, Italy, was canceled due to low enrollment.

He then offered three other multimedia

The City Hall building in Valencia, Spain.

Photo by Ashlyn Denson.

journalism study abroad program that also took place in the summer. My options were Urbino, Italy; Jerusalem, Israel; and Valencia, Spain. After some research and consideration, I chose Spain.

The program started on May 31and ended June 28. I arrived in Valencia on May 29, which was awesome because I had a chance to explore some of the city. The program in Valencia was multimedia journalism, broadcast, and photography. I found myself focusing on journalism, social media reporting and broadcast. There were about 20 people in the program including students from colleges in Nebraska, California and the East Coast. I was the only student from an HBCU. I learned a lot about journalism and how to tell a story using the five senses (see, smell, hear, feel and touch). Additionally, I learned more about AP style writing and using other multimedia outlets to tell a story (i.e., photography, videography, and social media captions).

I had several challenges. I did not know that much Spanish and everyone in Valencia spoke Spanish. Additionally, not only did they speak Spanish, but they also have their dialect called “Valencian.” This made everything even

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

FEATURES

November

2019

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"Good things take time and if you strategize correctly, everything will go better than planned."

Valencia is known for its impressive sandcastles such as the one pictured here.

Photo by Ashlyn Denson.

harder at times because even the basic be up early in the morning for school and Spanish words I knew may not have the work. Then, by the afternoon and evening same meaning in Valencian. For exam(2 p.m. – 5 p.m.), some stores would close ple, the Spanish word for “street” is “calle.” temporarily. Afterward, they would reopen However, in Valencia, they might have a the businesses or rest to prepare for a long street they say, “carre,” which means “street” night of partying that lasted until 6 a.m. the in Valencian. This could be confusing to next day. tourists who are trying to get around the I lived near the heart of the city, not far city. from a business called MarDuring my cado de Ruzafa or Russafa time in Valencia, Market. The vendor sold I learned what it every kind of animal you really means to be can imagine. an investigative We stayed in a busy journalist. I could part of the town and that not allow my lack allowed us to experience of Spanish hinder the authentic Valencian me from getting a community. When people great story. Google went out partying Saturtranslator became day night, their drunken my best friend screams and laughter when going out to became my alarm clock on report on a story.

Sunday morning.

I usually sought Every morning my people who were host mom would toast A plate of seafood Paella, one of the most able to speak Enbread and make our popular in Valencia. Photo by Ashlyn Denson. glish and Spanish favorite drink. She made so that I could me chocolate caliente (hot have enough information on the story I was cocoa) and coffee for my peers. Then at 2 covering. Going out to interview people p.m. we were expected to be back home afmay sound like a job, however, it was quite ter class, (which started at 11a.m. and endthe contrary. ed at 1p.m.), for lunch. After lunch, I would Completing my stories allowed me to either indulge in some homework I knew meet to mingle with my peers that also were would be due soon or go out shopping. enrolled in the program and talk to people I would spend hours shopping because from Valencia. I did one of my stories on they had some of the best fashion and even the perception of black music in Valenbetter prices! Sometimes I would shop until cia that required that I visited the beach. about 8:45 p.m. and then rush home before There was a black music dinner which started at festival going on and 9 p.m. My host mom I covered the music would be a little annoyed festival. They were very if we did not inform welcoming and inviting her that we would not to whatever party, event make it to dinner. It is a or feast they held. tradition to be home for The nature of the dinner at 9 p.m. and eat Valencian people exudes the food served. Speakpatience, easy-going ing of food, I tried rabbit and spontaneity. Ironfor the first time! ically, they also have a One of Valencia’s most An IMAX theater created to look like structured way of doing the eye known as the L'Hemisferic. Photo famous dishes is “Paella,” their daily routines. For courtesy of Pinterest. which consist of yellow instance, they would rice, rabbit, chicken and

snail. There also i a seafood Paella dish that consists of snails, shrimp, crab meat and chickens. A vegetarian Paella dish also is available for those who do not eat meat. I also loved their gelato, which is an Italian-style ice-cream. I tasted a bit of Italy.

Overall, the trip was one that I will alwaysremember. I picked up several tips that we hope to use at the Voice of the Wildcats, including the growing importance of social media sites such as Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat to report on stories.

The people I met on this journey will forever be in my heart. My host mom, whose name is Charo, spoke very little English.

Still, we managed to understand one another by body language or one of my peers translating for us. She was a feisty woman, but still a sweetheart who never let us sleep on an empty stomach.

Finally, I learned to work at my own pace. As a young journalist, I sometimes try to rush to get the story completed and I leave out good information. However, I learned the real meaning of quality over quantity. Good things take time and if you strategize correctly, everything will go better than planned.

"I attended one of the Valencia’s famous Flamenco shows along with my classmates and teachers." Photo by Ashlyn Denson.

For more information about the Institute for Education in International Media and its study abroad program, visit the website ieimedia.com.

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November 2019

SPORTS

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

NFL needs to give Colin Kaepernick another chance

By Sidney P. Brown The Sports Fanatic

Photo courtesy of Kaepernick's instagram.

It’s the midway point of the NFL season, and it’s safe to say that several teams are already planning for next season already. In some cases, I believe teams need to search for a new quarterback. As a matter of fact, I believe teams need to give Colin Kaepernick a call. Yes- Colin Kaepernick.

Here is a list of teams I believe should give him a chance midway through the season: 1. Miami Dolphins – They are the laughing stock of the NFL this season. They started

Quarterback has not played since 2016 out the season losing their first 7 games. They finally got their first win on their 26-18 win against the New York Jets. They have not had a solid quarterback on their roster after trading former starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill to the Tennessee Titans and losing their solid backup Matt Moore who is now a member of the Kansas City Chiefs.

2. New York Jets – They may have their quarterback of the future in Sam Darnold, but he has been awful this season, and he also missed games due to illness. The Jets are also 1-7, and Darnold has thrown 9 interceptions in the 5 games he has played this year. He is in his 2nd year, and appears to have little to no guidance or tutoring. Bring in Kaepernick to takeover and show Darnold the ropes.

3. Denver Broncos- They are 3-6 at the halfway point, and that’s highly disappointing for a team who hasn’t had a solid quarterback since future pro hall-of-famer Peyton Manning retired after beating the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50. What’s funny is that pro hallof-fame quarterback John Elway, the general manager of the Broncos, who also led Denver to 2 Super Bowl titles during his career, has not brought in an elite quarterback to replace Manning yet! Give Colin a chance! You have no shot at the title this year anyway!

4. Chicago Bears – Your current quarterback Mitchell Trubisky out of UNC has proved to been a waste of a 3rd overall pick back in 2017.

They also passed up on Patrick Mahomes, who was named 2018 MVP and led the Chiefs to an

AFC Championship appearance last year and Houston star Deshaun Watson, who has been sensational as well. Looking back at Bears history, before Trubisky, there was Jay Cutler, who is known for only having 1 playoff appearance in 8 years with the Bears. Bears fans are obviously desperate for a true leader and consistent performer at quarterback. Currently, the Bears are 3-5 at the halfway point. They should definitely consider calling Kaepernick.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – The Buccaneers have been playing good football this year, but they haven’t contributed to wins. They are 2-6 at the halfway point. I personally believe that they need to move on from Jameis Winston, who has been in and out of legal troubles since his time at Florida State. Due to this, I consider him to be unreliable although he has good talent as a quarterback. The Bucs probably won’t consider moving Winston, but the Buccaneers could always use a better backup QB just in case he gets in more trouble with the league. Tampa Bay, give Colin a chance.

In conclusion, I believe Colin Kaepernick is still better than a good amount of quarterbacks in this league, and he certainly should have at least a backup quarterback job in the league right now. I believe most teams in the NFL could use him right now. I don’t see what they have to lose by signing him to a contract, especially the five teams I listed above. This man deserves a check from the NFL! Get him back in the league!

Success in college requires a balancing act

By Amber Courtney No matter if you’re an incoming freshman or an upperclassman, everyone wants the new school year to be as easy, fun, and successful as possible. There are many ways to get everything needed done while maintaining a healthy and well-balanced life.

Here are some suggestions to help your personal and academic life be productive, fulfilled, and all together, awesome.

Personal Life Join an organization: The easiest way to meet new people and make friends is to simply be a part of an on-campus organization. You will be in contact with people with similar interests as you and that are open to making new friends just as you are. Having connections is a definite way to make the school year great and maybe even help down the road in your career.

Practice self-care: It could be as simple as using your favorite scented body lotion, exercising, or always dressing stylish but, doing things that make you feel good about yourself is important. Not only does it build your self-esteem, which is necessary to be successful and happy, but it also brings you comfort and happiness.

Taking care of yourself is a necessity, even if it is in the smallest of ways.

Have fun: School is important, but it cannot be everything. Having fun during your downtime is needed to maintain good mental

health. There is always something to do on and off-campus such as parties, game nights and even events on the Quad. Always check your school email and be aware of flyers to be notified of all the fun events happening. Trust me, there are plenty.

Find a hobby: As previously stated, school cannot take up all of your time. Find something productive that you genuinely enjoy doing. Any activity can count as a hobby --- playing an instrument, playing pool in the Game Room or even joining a sports team. Not only will it keep you from being bored when not in class, but it also gives you other goals to accomplish, making you a well-rounded individual. Plus, being busy is a good way to stay out of trouble and leaves less time to be isolated, bored, or sad.

Academic Life Schedule: Set aside designated times when you’ll do your schoolwork. Plan ahead when to work on certain assignments and set aside an early date you want to have it done by. This creates organization and also guarantees you that you’ll get it done and that it will be done on time.

Befriend your professors: Establishing relationships with your teachers can go a long way. There may be moments when you may need their help, whether it is a request for extra credit, recommendation letters, or career guid-

ance. Having a friendly relationship with them improves your chances of receiving help and makes it less awkward when asking for it.

Organize: Keep all of your notes, papers and documents in notebooks, folders, and binders.

Keeping all of your important documents in designated areas will be an absolute lifesaver.

The last thing anyone wants is to lose a paper needed for an important assignment or notes needed to study for a test. Papers are the easiest thing to misplace. Try to keep them all together in an organized area.

Take advantage of campus resources: Struggling with schoolwork? There are plenty of places to receive help. There is the tutoring lab filled with students who may excel in a subject you need help in, writing labs for those who need with things like essays, cover letters, or resumes and even certain clubs have study sessions for students to study together before exams. There is no need to struggle or fail a class when there is plenty of help around you.

Hopefully, these tips can help you during your new school year and all of those to follow.

These words of advice may not make your year perfect, but it sure can make it a lot easier. Good Luck, Wildcats.

Amber Courtney is a sophomore mass communications major.

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

FEATURES

November 2019

9

Anime and gaming club aim to highlight Japanese culture

By Tatiana Tyler-Addison Layout Editor, Feature Writer

Bethune-Cookman University is home to a variety of organizations for students looking for something to do outside the classroom.

These include organizations such as the Math Club; HOLA! for Hispanics and other Spanish speaking individuals who find excitement in Spanish culture; and also, The BethuneCookman University: Anything Goes Anime and Gaming Club.

The latter mission is “to make possible a change in people’s views of Japanese culture by creating an environment for fans and non-fans alike to watch anime, read manga, and discuss topics of interest.”

Khadijah Jones, now a high school teacher here in Daytona Beach, founded the anime and gaming club in 2015 when she was a student here.

The current president is Alonzo Davis, a senior and one of the few trombonists for the Marching Wildcats.

Davis says the club is for people with interest in anime and gaming, but with an interest also in the Japanese culture and design.

“We accept any and every one because we have any and every anime/game for everyone,” Davis says. “Anime is a type of art style develop in Japan. The word anime (pronounced a·nuh·mei) is a Japanese word for animation.”

The textbook definition of anime is a term for a style of Japanese comic book and video cartoon animation in which the main characters have large doe-like eyes.

He says he likes the combination of gaming and anime. “It would ease my stress or take my

mind off of anything going on around me,” he says. “People can get a sense of relief…I truly believe there is an anime and game for everyone. There is something that everyone can play or find interest in.”

To fully grasp what this organization is really about, he says, one only has to understand the actual Members and guests competing in one of the tournaments held.

Game controllers that were donated for the gaming tounament held in the CCE. name: Anything Goes Anime and Gaming. The club places emphasis on the word “anything” regarding its members.

The club hosts a weekly event known as Wasabi Wednesday. On that day, members gather together around a television to view, by majority rule, anime.

Gaming is a big hit with the group. Every Friday, members and even non-members have an option to bring televisions, game systems and sometimes board games to the other weekly event known as “Fight-or-Flight Friday.”

“Members play all types of games such as Fighting, Racing, MMO RPG and First-person Shooters,” Davis says.

Both events are held in the evenings after band practice to correspond with the members schedules since many belong to the Marching Wildcats band. The club also hosts an annual gaming tournament every spring that's usually held in the Center for Civic Engagement's graduate seminar room. There is a $1 entry fee and a $3 fee for every tournament enterd with a prize after each tournament that is won.

Snacks are also on sale for everyone present.

Meanwhile, the paid members meet twice a month, usually on Thursdays, to discuss future meetings and fundraisers. The initial cost to join the Anything Goes Anime and Gaming Club is $30, then $15 for each semester afterward.

For more information, interest persons can reach Davis by texting 386-334-6199 or by email at alonzo.l.davis@students.cookman.edu.

‘Always a Bridesmaid’ cast shares wisdom with B-CU

By Sierra Perry and Nadia Reese

B-CU recently hosted a screening of “Always while stepping out on faith to make a living out Yvette Nicole Brown, who wrote the screenA Bridesmaid,’ a new made-for-television movie of my talents,” Brown said. play, said she used her own life for inspiration. featuring veteran actors Yvette Nicole Brown University President E. LaBrent Chrite and She said she had been a bridesmaid five times and Richard Lawson, as well as newcomers his wife Phyllis were among that that watched and that she has been in the position of asking Chardae Johnson, Jasmine Savoy Brown and the viewing Oct. 12. The presentation was a herself, “when will it be my turn?”

Marcel Spears. partnership between B-CU’s School of Per“We all hope that the themes of love, The program in forgiveness and long-held dreams fulfilled Heyn Chapel also resonate with those who may need the reincluded a talkminder that 'Delay is not denial,” said the back portion for the veteran actress, who also was the execuaudience hosted by tive director of the film, is perhaps best Monica May, a Star known for her role in the award-winning 94.5 Radio PersonalNBC comedy "Community." ity and Tom Joyner She said she really wanted to write Morning Show Host. a film that the black community did Other guests not have—one that was PG-13 and that included Trey Haley, taught a lesson without vulgarity. She said the film’s director, she hopes to write more movies where and a frequent to the black people win. school. Haley said The story was filmed in the screen he and Yvette Nicole Cast, director and writer of fillm "Always a Bridesmaid" during Q&A w host: (l to writer’s hometown of East Cleveland, Brown have been r) Monica May, Trey Haley, Yvette Nicole Brown, Jasmine Brown, Chardae Johnson Ohio. The actress is a graduate of Hampbusiness partner for a and Marcel Spears. Photo by Desmond Walden. ton University in Virginia and there are long time. “Working several references to that HBCU in the with Yvette is an exmovie, which is currently showing on cellent experience,” Haley said. “Collaboration is forming Arts and Communication, along with cable television. the key.”

Haley’s Tri Destined Studios, Little Brown Girl, As a HBCU graduate, she encourage students This was comedian Jasmine Savoy Brown’s Sabrina Russ Entertainment, Hard Rock Hotel to go to institutions where they are “celebrated, first movie role. “I’m trying to find my balance and Team Volusia. not tolerated.”

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November 2019

A LOOK BACK

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

An October Homecoming to remember

The Marching Wildcats performing at the Homecoming game Oct. 26, 2019. Photo by Victor Minikwu.

B-CU Football taking the legacy walk before the start of the game. Photo by Sikera Murray.

Members of the Student Activities Board serves student body during homecoming tailgate. Photo by Sikera Murray.

Students unveil commemorative bricks in the Quad.

Photo by Victor Minikwu

B-CU cheerleaders show their school spirit during the Homecoming Parade at Bethune-Cookman University. Photo by Nadia Reese.

Ms. Alumni waving to the crowd during the homecoming parade. Photo by Victor Minikwu.

FEATURES

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

November 2019

11

City fetes B-CU's president at meet and greet

By Ashlyn Denson Editor-in-Chief

"We sent our kids to HBCUs purposefully because we believe in them," [President Chrite] said.

Bethune-Cookman University President E. LaBrent Chrite lay bare his plans for action to correct the financial issues that threatened the institution during a community “Meet and Greet” on Thursday, Oct. 30 hosted by the city of Daytona Beach.

Chrite told the estimated 200 people in attendance at the Midtown Cultural and Educational Center that B-CU has to satisfy its accreditation body that it had corrected the problems that caused it to be placed on probation or it will not survive.

“This is our final year,” he said. “The legacy (here) is so extraordinary and powerful....The implications will be catastrophic on this community (if Bethune-Cookman went under),” he said. A study undertaken more than 20 years ago suggested that B-CU had a local impact of $250 million yearly.

Chrite has hope, saying he is pleased with the progress, so far, and expects B-CU will get off probation.

Chrite said that he has been over-whelmed by what he has seen. However, he still maintained an optimistic attitude about his leadership at B-CU.

Pictured left to right are President Chrite, Norma Bland, local B-Cu alumnae, and B-CU first lady Phyllis Chrite.

“There is no other place I’d rather be,” he said, during the mayor and city commission hosted event.

He then took the community on a journey of his first B-CU impression. He came here from the University of Denver, a private university in Colorado, where he served as dean of the Daniels College of Business.

He said that after he decided to take the job, the negative stories in the media about B-CU’s problem caused many in Denver to ask him, “Why would you go there?”

Chrite said that at first he and his family were not sure if this place would survive, but after spending time with students and faculty, he fell in love with the university.

The seventh president of B-CU called on the community to remain “relentlessly committed and focused on the students.”

October marks Chrite’s fourth month at B-CU. He said that in these four months officials have “steadied our balance sheet.”

He hired a new chief financial officer and new cabinet members.

“We have made difficult decisions to make major budget cuts,” Chrite said, adding officials

worked hard to balance the income and expenses. Chrite also talked about the need to prepare students to be competitive for the labor field.

“We must prepare and mold our students to be able to adapt easily,” he said. Chrite ended on several notes, first addressing the past issues the university’s had with transparency, integrity, and finances.

“This is not about me or my leadership team,” Chrite said, “It’s about the students.”

Chrite, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, was welcomed to the city by the fraternity’s local graduate chapter with gifts.

Cynthia Slater, president of the NAACP area chapter, also welcomed him and invited him to take out a membership.

Mayor Derrick Henry declared Oct. 30, as Dr. E. LaBrent Chrite Day. The audience, meanwhile, got a chance to meet Chrite’s wife, Phyllis.

He said that neither he nor his wife had attended an HBCU but they supported them and sent two of their three children to HBCUs. “ We sent out kids to HBCUs purposefully because we believe in them,”he said.

Community extends warm wishes to Chrite

By Nadia Reese and Sara Wilson

Perhaps it was what B-CU President E. LaBrent Chrite said or the way he said--but either way Chrite received a warm welcome by an estimated 200 people that attended a reception staged by the city in his honor at the Midtown Cultural and Educational Center on Wednesday, Oct. 30.

“There is no place I’d rather be than at Bethune-Cookman,” said Chrite, who, as the university’s seventh president, has the task of pulling the institution back from a financial crisis that has put its accreditation in jeopardy.

Pam Brown, executive director of the Mike Curb Institute at Daytona State College, was among

those present. “I am celebrating the fact that he is connecting with the community and I am supporting him because of his background in business. He is in a unique position,” Brown said, about Chrite who most recently served as dean of the business school at the University of Denver.

Lamar Evans, a 2002 Bethune-Cookman University Alumna, said he wished the president well. Evans said he while he believes that Chrite he will be a blessing to the community. Several other alums also sent their support.

Meanwhile, B-CU faculty and staff also were in the audience, including Anthony Owens, a student

success coach and instructor.

“I work with President Chrite and I support the new vision that he has for the university,” Owens said.

The reception ceremony opened with a prayer. Chrite was presented with a plaque from the Delta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., congratulating his newfound role of leadership and their trust that he will strengthen Bethune-Cookman.

Terrence Culver, president of the chapter, noted that Chrite is one of several Alphas that have served as president including Oswald P. Bronson Jr., who served as president for 29 years.

Cynthia Slater, president of the Volusia County-Daytona Beach Chapter of the NAACP, said Chrite has her full support. “I thought his speech was timely for the audience and for their love for B-CU. People want B-CU to flourish because it has been here all their lives,” Slater said.

The invitation for the event included a request for RSVP and less than 50 people had done so, according to city staff, whom were pleased with the turnout.

Nadia Reese is a junior mass communications major. Sara Wilson is a senior mass communication major.

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FEATURES

November 2019

VOICE OF THE WILDCATS

WILDCAT ROAR

By Faith Landreneaux

If you were isolated in a large, empty chamber for one month, what three things would you take with you?

Ryleigh Taylor Sophomore

Nadia Pace Freshman

Katora Roberts Faculty Graduate Assistant

“I would bring a tent for shelter, lots of water, and lots of trail mix.”

“I would bring lots of water, at least a month supply of food, and a blanket.”

“I would bring food for at least two months just to have enough, phone with unlimited battery, and body wash.”

Honda continued from page 1. been there for 13 of the 16 years,” B-CU band director Don ovan Wells said. “I’m not upset by it and my students are not upset by it.”

The Marching Wildcats have been the only band to play at the Honda Battle of the Bands for 13 years, which is more than what any other band has achieved.

The next closest bands to play for many years are the Jackson State University’s Sonic Boom of the South Marching Band, Prairie View A&M University’s Marching Storm and Tennessee State University’s Aristocrats of Bands, which played for nine years.

“We’ve done so many things on the national and international level,” Wells said, noting the band's appearance in the film "Drumline" starring Nick Cannon and Zoe Saldana, among others.

The Marching Wildcats also have appeared on television on the "Ellen" daytime show and in a commercial for Cadillac.

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