MARCH/APRIL 2016
Students gathering their belongings and moving into new dorms.
B-CU opens new dorms Officials celebrate as students move back on campus into “state-of-the-art facilities”
The key to Bethune-Cookman University’s newly constructed residence hall, Phase 1, was recently presented to President Edison O. Jackson during an on campus ceremony. This event signified a new chapter for the historic institution and its effort to continue to build for the future. Excited supporters, including the university’s Executive Cabinet members, were on hand to witness the occasion. During the ceremony, university officials were given a tour of the new state-of-the-art facility, which will become the new home to more than 300 students. The key presentation ceremony was a proud moment for university officials.
“These new residence halls will help our students achieve their goals and dreams. The students who were living in off campus housing can now move on campus and can enjoy campus life,” said Jason Glenn, vice president for student affairs. In addition to state-of-the-art living accommodations, the residence hall also features other amenities including a fitness center, computer lab and multipurpose room. Jackson shared his enthusiasm about the residence hall project. He said he is extremely happy for students who will enjoy the new residence halls and thanked everyone who assisted
photo by Petra Merrick
the institution in achieving this milestone. “The building itself is made of quality materials. This will last for generations to come. I can’t even imagine how our students will feel once they walk through these doors and begin to select their rooms,” Jackson said. Students have begun moving into the new residence halls. The building is named after Thomas Moorehead and his wife Joyce Hanks Moorehead, who is a B-CU alumnae.
Officials still struggle for solution to county’s homeless issue By Christina Sloan Staff Writer
“Safe Harbor will be a place for people to focus on recovery before being placed back into the community,” the organizers wrote in a prepared statement.
When Edward Barnes was released from prison, he was given a bus ticket and $50.
During the meeting, officials announced that Catholic Charities of Central Florida has committed to be the lead agency responsible for the facility, which would seemingly bring closure to one of the issues surrounding the plan.
It was tough going for him, Barnes said during a community rally sponsored by FAITH that was aimed at drawing attention to the less fortunate in the community. “It would have been helpful in my transition” back into society, said Barnes, referring to Volusia Safe Harbor, a homeless shelter that has been at the center of debate within the county for more than a year. Supporters, including FAITH, which stands for Fighting Against Injustice Toward Harmony, have been pushing it as a solution to the county’s homeless program.
New Smyrna Beach resident Edward Barnes was among the speakers at the F.A.I.T.H. rally in March.
The coalition of 32 congregations that comprise FAITH came out strongly in favor of the proposed 250-bed shelter at its March 14 action assembly at the Performing Arts Center here on campus.
“We believe that we can do what’s necessary to pull all the partners together in support of this project,” said Gary Tester, spokesman for Catholic Charities. Volusia Safe Harbor is based on two models—one in Miami and another in Pinellas County—that have been credited with reducing the street homeless populations in those continued on page 3
photo by Brenda Starr
OPINION SEE PAGE 2
FEATURES SEE PAGE 4-5
COMMUNITY SEE PAGE 6
SPORTS SEE PAGE 7-8
2 MARCH/APRIL 2016 The Voice of the Wildcats is written, edited and published by members of the student body at BethuneCookman University. The Voice of the Wildcats is published monthly during the fall and spring semesters. All opinions are solely those of the author. Petra Merrick
Editor-in-Chief Jaimee Cobb Layout Editor Greg Lewis Copy Editor Felix Reyes Jr. Sports Editor Curtis Killings Photo Editor Christina Sloan Features Editor George Hudson Staff Photgrapher Staff Writers Andres Whipple Augustinas Navickas Kalen Murphy Charla McCord Correspondents Lenyjha Dodd Brenda Starr Dr. Elsie Wanjohi Publication Director Valerie Whitney Voice Adviser PUBLICATION MEMBERSHIP
OPINION
VOICE
Savannah trip proves fruitful for many reasons By Petra Merrick Editor The staff and I packed our bags and hit the road in February to attend the annual Southern Regional Press Institute in Savannah, Georgia. The Southern Regional Press Institute or SRPI is a yearly twoday conference held at Savannah State University to promote minority awareness in the media. The conference offers a plethora of workshops that participants can go to. It also offers career preparation workshops for college students. We attended different workshops according to our interest and our McCord emphasis within the field of communications. Although, all the workshops were very informative, the one that connected with me the most was titled “Want a Job in the Music or Entertainment Industry? “ Besides having the opportunity to meet magician Magic Marc Dunston and social entrepreneur Michael Trammel, it was the only workshop that gave the participants words of wisdom. I found this interesting given that all the workshops that I attended only gave you the run down of how the speaker’s typical workday goes, rather than their experiences and words of wisdom. Meanwhile, the VOICE struck gold at the closing luncheon Friday
afternoon. Our newspaper captured first place for feature writing for a couple of articles written by Charla McCord and second place in the overall category. To see the growth of the Voice from when I first started writing until now is unbelievable. The moment almost brought tears to Voice staff members during the SRPI awards luncheon. my eyes. I will forever appreciate that moment as being the editor of the Voice and watching it bloom. Besides the conference, we also visited the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum in downtown Savannah. At the museum we viewed different exhibits and watched a video showing the struggle of African Americans during the civil rights movement. Finally, to my staff, I just to say that I am very proud of all of you. We would not have been honored were it were not for you. I just want you to know that I appreciate your efforts and dedication to make the Voice of the Wildcats what it is today! You are the true definition of great leaders! Continue to stay focus, dedicated, desired and disciplined. photos by Brenda Starr
Voice staff and other B-CU Mass Communications students outside the Civil Rights Museum in Savannah.
More social events on campus should help improve student safety By Lenyjha Dodd
The Voice of the Wildcats Special to Voice is a member of the College Media Advisors AssociaBethune-Cookman University tion (CMA) and National President Edison O. Jackson sent out Association of Black Jour- a very special email recently. nalists (NABJ).
Jackson announced that he was giving approval for more activities ADVERTISER on campus. The move, rightly so, was MEMBERSHIP in response to several incidents this year where students were victims of The Voice of the Wildcats violence.
subscribes to the 360 Youth
“We must do everything within our God given powers to keep our stuSend Correspondence to: dents safe, and provide them with the Editor educational journey our founder, Dr. The VOICE, Fine Arts Mary McLeod Bethune, envisioned on that temperate day on Oak Street Building Room 124 640 Dr. Mary McLeod over 100 years ago,” Jackson was quoted as saying in one report. Bethune Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114 When I first heard about it, I was Phone: (386) 481-2707 happy to know that we can remain Fax: (386) 481-2701 on campus and be safe, especially voiceofthewildcats@gmail. in light of the shootings involving
B-CU students. The deaths of three students—one at a party off campus and two in off-campus housing complex— was very unfortunate. I pray that nothing like that happens again. One way to try and keep students safe is by Dodd holding social activities in a more controlled environment such as campus. But, what exactly should those activities be? Several B-CU students interviewed were quick to offer suggestions. Freshman mass communications major Kaylin Jackson said he would like to see more game nights. Jackie Saucer, another freshman, wants more dances on campus.
Finally, Amari Croakley wants to see more on campus movie nights. Obianuju Orjioke, president of the Student Activities Board, said the group is looking at ways to bring more social events to campus. “SAB loves B-CU,” Orjioke said, adding the board, in conjunction with the Student Government Association, presented the idea to Jackson of the need for more social events. Great news, I thought. After all, Bethune-Cookman is responsible for all of us. Having fun is important but safety should all ways come first. Meanwhile, Orjioke ask that students remain patient. The exact details are still to be worked out. To stay updated on future events, you can follow all of SAB social networks instagram/ snapchat/ periscope @ bcu_sab.
NEWS
VOICE
MARCH/APRIL 2016
3
Mass Communications hosts Cox Media career fair
Staff Report
M. Cox in 1898 with a $26,000 loan.
she went through.
Faculty and students in the department of mass communication played host recently to representatives from Cox Media.
Today the company, which is headquartered in Atlanta, employs 50,000 people and has annual revenue of $17 billion.
The nation’s largest private communication, media and automotive services company had representatives from a cross section of its departments here to talk with students about career opportunities.
Among those employees here on March 18 were B-CU alumni Tasheka Young, who now works as a radio personality for Cox station Power 106.1 in Jacksonville. Young shared with students the steps on her road to Cox and her typical workday.
“I also faced similar challenges throughout my life and knowing that I wasn’t the only one really made me happy. At the end of our conversation we did agree for us to meet up one day so that I could come and shadow her one day. I am stoked. “
Dr. Hiram Powell, dean of the School of Performing Arts and Communication, praised officials for taking the time from their busy work schedules to come here. “I’m impressed. Not a lot of companies would bring that many people. I know what this investment is and we hope you find it worthwhile,” Powell said. Clarence Natto, director of branding for Cox in Jacksonville, shared a brief history of the company, which was started by James
“I’m impressed. Not a lot of companies would bring that many people. I know what this investment is and we hope you find it worthwhile.” Hiram Powell “I learned a lot,” said sophomore Bobbi London-Ligon. “As she was speaking to us, I could relate to a lot that she was saying (especially) some of the struggles that
Attendees also had the chance to view a film on the company’s Digital Talent Program, which is a one year Dr Elsie Wanjohi, left, talks to presenters during the Cox paid internship. Media fair.
Student Yamil Turner, meanwhile, said he enjoyed the chance to rub shoulders with the Cox executives. “(It) showed how Cox Media
Homelessness continued from page 1
Downtown drama The issue of homelessness in Daytona Beach took center stage earlier this year after dozens of homeless people camped out in front of the Volusia County Administration Building at 250 N. Beach St. in Daytona Beach.
County Councilman Josh Wagner proposed converting an empty lot located on the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and North Street into a tented campground with outdoor restrooms available for the homeless. The city responded by offering to open a 46-bed temporary shel-
photo by Adam Grimes
There are close to 2,000 homeless people in Volusia County as of 2015. According to another report, there are more than 2,000 homeless children in Volusia County.
communities. Critics say it will not solve the problem.
At one point, county officials closed the doors after one of the employees was “accosted” by a homeless person. In addition, there were news reports about criminal activity including drugs and prostitution in the encampment. The issue appeared to create tension between the city and county officials as both struggled to find a solution.
has great respect for the department of mass communications here at B-CU,” Turner said.
In Daytona Beach there are 430 homeless children, according to the Volusia County School District. Wagner said its clear that there needs to be more by both the city and county for homeless residents. “It is a homeless problem and a funding problem,” he said.
Daytona Beach City Commissioners Kelly White, Ruth Trager and Paula Reed attended the F.A.I.T.H. rally at the PAC last month.
ter at the Salvation Army downtown. Volusia County gave the city an ultimatum: Come up with a solution in 90 days or the county would back off on its plans to donate millions of dollars for Volusia Safe Harbor. The city went with its plans and opened the shelter on January 25. To great surprise, many of the homeless population refused to go to the shelter. County Councilwoman Joyce
Cusack, who was involved in helping the Salvation Army open the shelter, said only half of the beds were filled the first night. “The homeless are trying to send a message, that they need a more permanent fixture,” Cusack said in an interview. She said most were unhappy with the idea of the Salvation Army Center. Cusack also said she was disappointed with the outcome.
The county offered to provide $4 million for construction of the building and the land it is on. However, the cities that neighbor Daytona Beach in Volusia County are not on board to share the operational costs of the building. Cusack, meanwhile, said it is the duty of government officials to handle the homelessness issue in Volusia. “It’s our responsibility to do due diligence and provide opportunities for the homeless. It’s not just in Daytona, it’s all over the county,” she said.
Homeless include children
The Voice of the Wildcats is looking for ad sales people, staff writers, section editors, photographers and an online editor for the Fall. For more information, contact Ms. Valerie Whitney in Fine Arts room 123 or email us at voiceofthewildcats@gmail.com.
4
FEATURES
MARCH/APRIL 2016
VOICE
Review: ‘The Life of Pablo’
BJ the Chicago Kid making great strides in music
New album proves Kanye West is back
By Kalen Murphy Feature Writer Kanye is BACK!!! For better or for worse, the world’s attention gravitates towards this man when he drops an album. I can’t express how many of my friends have been hitting me up for a copy of his latest project once they found out I bought it.
By Kalen Murphy Feature Writer Bubbling in the music industry for the last couple of years, BJ the Chicago Kid has been slowly making a name for himself through his notable features on tracks with Chance the Rapper, ScHoolBoy Q and Jill Scott. With his recent studio album titled “In my Mind,” his introspective lyrics prove that he couldn’t have picked a better title for this project. Listening to the album you can hear soul simmering on tracks like “Church” featuring Chance The Rapper and “Shine.” The listener can easily appreciate the honesty in these songs and the minimalistic instrumentation. Most of the tunes on the album sounds like something you want to play on a Sunday afternoon, but not because you’re
coming home from church. Despite that, the project’s only major flaw is the lack of variety. There are flashes of ‘90s R&B on songs like “The Resume” featuring Big K.R.I.T., but for the rest of this project pretty much carries the same sound. Don’t get me wrong, this song is a different turn than what a lot of artists might have done, but “In my Mind” seems to be on the road trying to ride on with a little too much tunnel vision. BJ the Chicago shows a lot of promise with his sound. Give it a listen. Standout Track: “Church” Rating:
With his latest masterpiece “The Life of Pablo,” he is more interpersonal and unpredictable than ever before. I was very reluctant to give it a listen at first, but the early release of the Kendrick-featured heater, “No More Parties In LA”, quickly made me change my mind. Yeezy came with what me and many others have been craving for a long time: BARS. When I first heard T.L.O.P, it was immediately clear that one of the album’s standout tracks would be the gospel-powered “Ultralight Beam”, including a stellar verse from Chance the Rapper. Still questioning if the album was going to live up to the hype, the first 45 seconds of the following track “F.S.M.H Pt. 1” erased any doubt that this wasn’t going to be a step up from his last album, Yeezus.
“Real Friends”, proves once again that Mr. West is best when he’s admitting to his own faults, as he opens up about his trust issues with the people around him and his own flaws as being a friend. But of course, Kanye is going to be Kanye, from his self-proclamation of being “Steve Jobs mixed with Steve Austin” on the track “Feedback” to “I Miss Kanye”, a love letter from himself and nostalgic fans. This album lacks the cohesion found in his previous works, but it works because T.L.O.P is a collision of all his previous sounds. Who can argue with that? Rating:
Arguably the album’s best song,
Wildcat Roar Q. Have you been watching the presidential primary debates? photos and text by Curtis Killings
Tyler Grant Freshman
Erron Enoex Sophomore
Denzel Manning Junior
Leroy Holt III Senior
“No, but I have been paying attention to the political race as a whole. I would like to get more involved with the political debates to be more knowledgeable about both parties and candidates to select the best person as president.”
“I, myself, have not been watching because I just don’t want to. Knowing who is running scares me and makes me not want to watch. However, even though I havent been watching, I do know who I am voting for. My vote is influenced by keeping up with the candidate and following their campaign.”
“Yes, I’ve been paying close attention to this debate, because if we put the wrong person in office, this could impact our country in a major way. So I advise my peers to watch and pay attention and to also make sure that everyone gets out and vote. Because what is the point of having these rights, if you don’t use them.”
“I’ve kept up with it a little, but I haven’t been watching it. The reason is because I feel that the presidential candidates this year are terrible. Donald Trump is winning so far and if he becomes president, I think that a lot of people in this country are going to suffer. If I could change one thing about this years election, it would be, to give President Barack Obama, another four years!”
FEATURES
VOICE
MARCH/APRIL 2016
‘50 Shades of Black’ fails to deliver
By Christina Sloan Feature Editor I went to see the film “Fifty Shades of Black” with an open mind. But, five minutes into the story, I knew what kind of movie it was going to be---one full of thoughtless innuendos, African-American stereotypes and only a few moments of clever humor. The first few minutes revealed that Christian Black, portrayed by a funny Marlon Wayans, earned his fortune through purse snatching and drug dealing. In addition, when he meets Hannah, played by a sweet Kali Hawk, Christian’s creep factor is majorly increased. He also
remains creepy and continues to constantly stalk her throughout the movie. At one point in the movie he even admits to be a “certified stalker” with four restraining orders. Finally, someone says what we all thought while watching “Fifty Shades of Grey,” that Christian Grey was a full on stalker with some major control issues. What made the film not full of laughter were all of the racial stereotypes that were obviously trying way too hard to make the audience laugh, but instead made them groan. For instance, Christian and Hannah saying they wanted to argue like black people which was full of yelling and clapping at one another, and Christian’s racist mother serving them fried chicken for dinner. I would say the funniest parts were the reference to the movie “Whiplash,” starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons. Also, during the sexual “torture” scene, Hannah is tied down and crying in pain as Christian reads from the book “Fifty Shades of Grey,” calling it “Fifty shades of terrible!” I’m unsure if he was only talking about the book, or both of the movies as well. Rating:
‘RACE’ to the movies to see this film pics in Berlin, Germany. He won four gold medals and is credited with breaking down racial barriers as well. I give this movie 3 out of 5 stars. Overall, it was very good. It demonstrated the hardship of being an African American male at the time, as well as being determined to reach your dreams.
By Petra Merrick Feature Writer One of the must-see movies at the box office in recent weeks was the biographic flick “Race,” based on the Jesse Owens story. Owens, in my opinion, was the greatest Olympian that has ever lived. The movie begins in 1933 and we are treated to Owens, played by Stephan James, displaying his love of running. He gets accepted to Ohio State University. While there he was recruited by coach Larry Snyder, played by Jason Sudeikis, for track and the rest is history.
The biggest downside for me is that this movie is too long! The total run time for the movie is 2 hours and 15 minutes. I was ready to leave after the first hour and 45 minutes. I feel as if the director should not have dragged out the movie. Certain scenes could have been cut or not added at all. So, is the movie worth the money? I would say yes, especially if you have the yearning for a good historical movie for everyone to enjoy. Rating:
The real Jesse Owens broke many barriers at the 1936 Olym-
“Deadpool” makes his mark as a different kind of Superhero By Augustinas Navickas Feature Writer Many of you probably only recently became familiar with Marvel’s super anti-hero named Deadpool thanks to the movie released this year under the same name. Created by Rob Liefeld and Fabian Nicieza to simply make fun of a DC superhero Deathstroke, Deadpool became a fan favorite sensation. Likewise, the film that was produced by 20th Century Fox, Marvel Entertainment and The Donner’s Company, has made a killing at the box office despite the R rating since it was released recently. In the comic book, Deadpool, whose real name is Wade Wilson, is a funny, filter-less but always ready for action anti-superhero. Unlike your traditional superhero, Deadpool won’t necessarily make the honorable choice, but he will get things done. The most exciting idea of Deadpool’s story is breaking the 4th wall or the thin wall that exists between fantasy and reality. In the film, just like in the comics, Deadpool often talks to the audience and discusses real life situations. For example, in the “Deadpool” comic book the character once spoke about Ryan Reynolds. Ironically, the director of “Deadpool,” Tim Miller, trusted Ryan Reynolds with the main role. He did a tremendous job. It seems like Reynolds was truly perfect for the role, claiming that it was in fact a dream come true.
5
“For me, this is 11 years of a dream come true. Every single second I got to spend making this movie, being a part of it, wearing the makeup, wearing the suit – all that crap that is usually kind of aggravating, it was – I couldn’t complain for a second of it though,” he told the online site flickering myth.com The film follows Wilson, who used to be a special forces agent. Guess what? A man, who kills and steals for a living, finds true love. Shortly afterward, Wilson is diagnosed with cancer in his brain, liver and lungs. A mystery man convinces him to try a “nontraditional” treatment. After being tortured and experimented on, Wilson’s DNA mutates and he becomes a super anti - hero; however, his face becomes hideous to look at. He looks like “an avocado had sex with an older avocado,” as described in the movie. With the powers of super healing abilities, super agility, and amazing skills with guns and swords, Wilson tries to hunt down the man who did this to him. This movie is full of action and dirty jokes, but it also has a love story behind it. Will Deadpool get his revenge, and most importantly, his love back? Invest your time into a twisted, funny and extremely entertaining love story, watch “Deadpool” and find out.
Rating:
COMMUNITY VOICE Central Florida scouts camp out on campus
6
MARCH/APRIL 2016
By Brenda Starr Special to the Voice Boy Scouts from several counties came together on the campus of Bethune-Cookman University for a “Scouting with the Wildcats Weekend” recently. The college’s Office of K-16 Initiatives Department and the Central Florida Council of Boy Scouts of America in Orlando coordinated the event. “ I can imagine this being a yearly thing,” said Tia Townes, who works with the K-16 program, during check-in. Officials said more than 120 boys, representing 13 Cub Scout packs and Boy Scout troops, pitched tents and enjoyed the event. The scouts began checking-in at 4 p.m. March 18, setting up their tents next to the Bethune Foundation. The following day they were slated to take part in several activities before heading home around 3 p.m.
“This is exciting for young boys,” said Rosetta Kraus, another executive with the council. Her district includes the West Volusia area. Jeremiah Williams, 9, was one of the boys who took part in the event. Williams, who is a Cub Scout, said he learned about scouting from a friend. “It’s good because you are not suppose to cuss and I don’t cuss,” he said, before heading off to dinner Friday night in the Center for Civic Central Florida scouts pitched tents near the Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation. Engagement.
Halvern Johnson, a regional official with the Central Florida Council, spearheaded the project. Johnson, whose territory includes East Volusia, said his goal was to get more boys, especially African-American youths, interested in scouting. He said officials initially talked about limiting the event to youth in Volusia County here but ended up inviting troops from as far away as Tampa.
The sign above indicates that boy scout troops from as far as Tampa visted campus on March 18-19. photos by Brenda Starr
ESPNU sports anchor Charlie Neal visits B-CU campus By Shaquasia Foster Correspondent One of the most well-know voices for ESPNU made a surprise visit last month and quickly captured the attention of faculty and students in the department of mass communication. Charlie Neal is a play-byplay announcer for ESPNU and since 2005 he has been the voice for Historically Black College/ University football and basketball telecast for that network. Neal shared with students highlights of his career as an announcer, while getting a feel of what each student desires to be once they graduate. He said he never planned on being in radio or television. He studied psychology in college. He was drawn to mass communication after observing a
Charlie Neal
friend work a shift at a radio station. The friend told Neal that he felt he also had a good voice for radio.And the rest, according to Neal, is history. “If an opportunity knocks, you have to decide to take it,” he said. Neal’s broadcasting career dates back 30 years and includes stints at BET, MSNBC and TNT. He told students that sometimes all you have to do is get your foot in the door and everything will follow if you work hard enough for it. “You don’t arrive, you evolve,” he said.
Boy scouts check-in for Scouting with the Wildcats weekend.
SPORTS
VOICE
MARCH/APRIL 2016
7
Reigning MEAC Champs not hindered by lack of track B-CU track team lacks proper training facilities
SPORTS PLAYBOOK By Felix Reyes Jr The BethuneCookman men and women’s track and field teams may not have state of the art facilities but that does not stop them from being competitive. In fact, the men’s track and field team was the reigning 2015 Indoor MEAC Champions. Many might think that the teams not having a full track on or near the main campus of B-CU may hinder the progress of these athletes. But, that is not case at all as the team defended its title by capturing the gold once again at Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex in Landover, Maryland. “Actually, it probably doesn’t hinder [my progress, not having a full track],” said Demetrius Rooks, who does the long jump and triple jump. The Wildcats finished with a final score of 122 points to outscore the Aggies of North Carolina A&T who had a final score of 113.
“We talk to the other schools all the time. And when we tell them we don’t have a full track they’re just amazed at how we keep winning,” Rooks said. “As far as short distance, it doesn’t affect me, …” said Dominique Williams, who runs in the 100 meter hurdle. The B-CU track teams only have a 120-meter straightaway to practice on. This is a challenge to some of the athletes [cross country runners] because they may run in events The men’s track team celebrates after winning back to back MEAC Indoor Championships. that are longer than 120 meters. While the student athletes don’t Former Wildcats recall how “…But for long distance it does, because there are certain events that we partake in that are outdoors, that are longer than indoors,” Williams continued. During the outdoor track season, there are events the Wildcats must prepare for that they just don’t have the facilities here on campus that can accommodate their needs.
tough it was to prepare for events such as the 800 meter and the cross country 1500 meter.
“We just had to make it work. We used a couple of high school tracks (Mainland High School) to practice on,” Wildcat alumni Jaquell Phillip said. “And, as a distance runner, we ran more routes to get on different areas like bridges, grass, and streets,” Phillip said.
feel like the lack of a full track hinders their abilities and it certainly doesn’t stop them from winning; they wouldn’t mind having something to call their own. “It [being on the team] probably would feel better if we had our own facility, to train, but we have other places that we could go and use a full track, even though it’s time consuming,” Rooks said. photo by B-CU Athletics
March Madness truly lived up to its name this year By Felix Reyes Jr Sports Editor Well, March Madness is finally over. And no, I’m not talking about the Future Hendrix track, the original March Madness.
given night. The pick that I am going with to win it all is Oklahoma. Buddy Hield has become a shining super star right before our eyes. Hield has gotten his team to the Final Four and is the first player to average 25 points per game for a team in the Final Four since 1990.
No, I am referring to the NCAA basketball tournament. The tournament that went to 68 teams from 64 making the final cut because too many coaches and fans were crying that their mediocre team didn’t make it.
The tournament wraps up with the National Championship title game April 4 in Houston, Texas. I could be eating my words by the time you read this or not. Either way this was one season when March Madness truly lived up to its name.
Last year the Duke Blue Devils won the tournament for their fifth national title in school history. Led by Tyus Jones and Jahlil Okafor—now NBA players--the two combined for 33 of the team’s 68 points in the victory against Wisconsin University. But just when you think you have things figured out, the regular season showed just how much parody there is in college basketball. Or, just when you think a team is about to take off as the consensus favorite to win it all--they lose. This year Duke did not repeat, having been knocked out of the tournament by Oregon-who was then knocked out by Oklahoma.
This season there were more than 70 losses by teams ranked inside the top 10. That exceeded the previous record of 71 losses in the 2000-01 season, which was eventually won by the Duke Blue Devils, who was a No. 1 seed.
Villanova, UConn win
A three-point shot at the buzzer by Kris Jenkins lead the Villanova men’s basketball team to its first national title in 31 years. Villanova defeated North Carolina, 77-74, at The four No. 1 seeds this year were Kansas NRG Stadium in the N.C.A.A. tournament’s (South), Oregon (West), North Carolina (East), championship game. and Virginia (Midwest). Kansas, the No. 1 one It was the Wildcats’ first championship since overall seed, was knocked out of the tournadefeating Georgetown in 1985 in one of the ment by No. 2 seed Villanova. Oregon was also tournament’s greatest upsets. knocked out before the final four by No. 2 seed Meanwhile, the University of Connecticut Oklahoma. women’s team crushed Syracuse in the finals. It was the fourth straight national title for UConn. So, I’d just advise you to sit back and enjoy the fact that anyone could in fact lose on ANY
8
SPORTS
MARCH/APRIL 2016
VOICE
Women’s golf wins Low Country Intercollegiate Trophy
HILTON HEAD, S.C. – The Wildcats of Bethune-Cookman University turned in a tournament-low scoring mark during the recent 2016 Low Country Intercollegiate and walked away with the winning trophy
Her teammate Shamiso Hatchard (76-79=155, +11) used a second round 7-over 79, placing herself tied for 16th on the final leaderboard.
The two-day, 36-hole event took place at the famed Moss Creek Golf Club in Hilton Head, South Carolina on March 19 and 20.
Meanwhile, a pair of Wildcats tied for 25th overall. Sophomore Mackenzie Butzer (7978=157, +13) and freshman Alejandra Sanchez (81-76=157, +13) each lowered their scores from opening round action. Butzer fired a final round 6-over 78, shaving a stroke from her opening round. Meanwhile, Sanchez bested her first round by five strokes with a 4-over 76 on the final day.
Bethune-Cookman (304307=611, +35) sat just two shots back of the lead heading into the final round. The Wildcats made up ground by breaking the tournament’s team scoring record of 616 (+40), previously held by Western Carolina (2010) and Appalachian State (2011). Second-place competitor Chattanooga (302-312=614, +38) also broke the tournament record alongside the Wildcats. Wildcat freshman Yudika Rodriguez (74-74=148, +4) was steady the entire weekend for the Maroon and Gold, pacing the Wildcats as the top scorer and tying for second in the tournament with mirror round of 2-over 74.
Head Coach Loritz Clark and members of the Bethune-Cookman womens golf team, l t r,
Alejandra Sanchez, Yudika Rodriguez, Mackenzie Butzer, Shamiso Hatchard, Saraid Ruiz and The final Bethuneassistant coach Hannah Hellyer celebrate after the recent win. Cookman golfer was junior Saraid Ruiz (75Third place in the tourney went to Sasha Banks (75-71=146, +2) of 83=158, +14), dropping down the Gardner-Webb (306-311-617, +41). Brown took the individual medalleaderboard in the final round as the Venezuela native turned in a fi- ist award, while B-CU’s Rodriguez Photo and information in this story nal round 83 scorecard. She would and Chattanooga’s Emily McLenwas supplied by B-CU Athletics. nan shared the runner-up cup. finish tied for 33rd overall.
Grammy winner Kendrick Lamar standing in the shadows of greatness By Gino Cyrus Correspondent
I knew that day that the music world had no choice but to acknowledge such an album for it is truly a masterpiece—in my opinion. He even impressed President Obama with song No. 11 on the 16 tracks, titled “How Much A Dollar Cost.”
Viewers who tuned into this year’s Grammy awards may have witnessed what in years to come may be described as a major turning point in the music industry.
Lamar won five of the 11 nominations he received for the Grammys this year. Thus, he did not surpass Michael, who won eight in 1984 for “Thriller.” Most people wouldn’t even consider surpassing Michael Jackson even tangible, as iconic as he was.
As an avid listener of all music, I would have to agree that some of the music released from the nominated artist in the past few years have been great. So great that they might even outlive some of the artist. After all, longevity is synonymous with an artist creating truly impactful music. Michael Jackson is the perfect example. Yet, there is always some artist or group that dominates the music industry through their work. Though it is subjective, there is one artist I’ve been following for a while who has been doing just that, which brings me to my reasons for making sure I watched the Grammys on Feb. 18.
When asked one time about the possibility of surpassing Jackson, Lamar replied, “No. I can’t fathom being as great as Michael, without putting out the work.”
Kendrick Lamar holding one of his five grammys.
The artist that captured my attention was nominated for 11 Grammys, making him the most nominated Grammy hip-hop artist in one year, which put him right behind the legendary Michael Jackson’s 12 Grammy nominations in 1984 for his “Thriller” album. Coming in second to the king of pop was enough for this artist to make history at the Grammys even before the event took place. His name--none other than Kendrick Lamar. What got him there was the release of his Afrocentric conceptualized second album in 2015, titled “To Pimp A Butterfly.” ( It was
originally going to be titled “Tu Pimp A Caterpillar” in honor of Tupac Shakur. I purchased the album on its release day and listened to it. And, just as most of his previous work has resonated with me, I wasn’t surprised to be astounded once again by Lamar. After listening to the last track, I removed the Beats by Dre headphones away of my ears, placed them down, stood, and slowly began to applaud as if Lamar actually just ended performing this entire album in my room.
While I am proud of Lamar’s accomplishment, I can’t help but notice that the categories he won in were solely for hip-hop artist. Why is that? I dare say I think that Lamar had a better than average chance with this album to snag the best album of the year honor, which went to Taylor Swift. However, there is always next year.
“After listening to the last track, I removed the Beats by Dre headphones away of my ears, placed them down, stood, and slowly began to applaud as if Lamar actually just ended performing this entire album in my room.”