On Tap Issue 07 Spring 2013

ON TAP A VSU Student Magazine

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

STAFF J. Daniel Young EDItoR IN CHIEF

ef GRAPHIC DESIGNER Roberto Leal

ef Managing Editor Denise Pleasant

ef Section Editors Autumn Sullivan - Straight Up Tasty James Washington - Sports Erin Ellis - What’s Bugging You? Copy Editors Jenae’ Brew Starla Monroe Public Relations Ray Pack Devin Durham Photographers Veronica Dominicis Devin Durham J. Daniel Young

Writers, Editors, Designers Jessica Cooke Cathy Carmichael Terrance Johnson James Washington Jennifer Marlatt John Preer Erin Ellis Jessica Tuggle Von Kennedy Denise Pleasant Steven Quinn Karli Greene Jennifer Marlatt Ray Pack Kendra Zollicoffer Ashley Jacobs John Preer

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Deborah Hall Email: ontap@valdosta.edu Cover page photo credit: Veronica Dominicis

OnTap table of contents

01 NATURAL HIGH: An organization that sponsors on-campus substance abuse free activities.

04 REFRESH YOUR DORM ROOM: A green dorm is a happy dorm.

06 EXPRESS YOUR-SELF: Fashion sense is one of those things that does not come to just anyone.

24 BLAZER GARDEN: All natural everything!

27 FLAvOR IN YOUR EAR: Some fresh beats for your listening pleasure.

28 SIMPLY DAD: A personal perspective of a Blazer and Falcons legend.

08 BARTENDER’S PERSPEcTIvE: Ever wonder what your bartender is thinking?

32 REMEMBER THE WILDcATS: A local team’s journey to immortality.

10 STRAIGHT UP TASTY: Some new treats for your taste buds.

40 RANT & RAvE: Student opinions about campus life.

14 PHILIP LEvINE AND THE SIMPLE TRUTH: Poetry review of Levine’s The Simple Truth.

16 JOURNALISTS: WHAT’S NEXT? Career options for students nearing graduation.

18 LOvE BUGS: The life and times of love bugs.

20 cOMPARISON GAME: “...Five beats one everytime.”

22 RAcE TO THE RING: Basketball insight!

41 RIO DE JANIERO: Between Christ and a marketplace a city struggles for peace.

44 INTERvIEW WITH POSTMEN: Get to know a newly formed band, Postmen.

45 FROM THE cLOSET TO THE PARTY: Ladies enjoy a night out with the girls, and their favorite place to present their fashion sense is at a club.

LETTER OF THE EDITOR Farewell!

S

trange for me to begin this letter by saying goodbye, but it’s my last semester, and I will be walking the stage toward a different zip code on May 4.

It’s even stranger, considering that this issue began with a discussion last fall on how spring is a time of renewal. We editors spoke about recycling and how we can better impact our environment. We talked about food, relationships and fashion.

This issue encompasses many of these topics and then some.

Von Kennedy’s article about Rio de Janiero reminds us that the renewal of a city’s image sometimes requires growing pains. James Washington goes back to the past in search of

Valdosta High School’s football roots. Jessica Tuggle brings her father’s college career to life in “Simply Dad.” We learned how to make a new drink, understand what the bartender is thinking, and how to reinvigorate your dorm. We chatted about bugs and what’s bugging you. We visited Blazer’s Garden and brought you a fresh perspective on new music.

We hope that our efforts paid off and you enjoy our magazine. While I may be saying goodbye, On Tap says ‘Hello!’ and will welcome you back in the fall.

J. Daniel Young Editor In Chief

Naturally High?

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ft e n e no ugh, w he n s o meo n e h ear s me di scu ssing m y stu den t o rg an i z at i o n , N a t ur al Hi gh , f or th e f i r s t t ime t hey giv e m e a conf u sed look . “W ha t ki n d o f o r gani zat io n i s th at ?” th ey wou ld ask. Their con fu sion is exp ec ted s i n ce th e cl ub d o es s o un d li k e s o met hing a grou nd of m isg u ided t een a ger s w o ul d p ar t i cip a te i n . Bu t, it’ s q u i te th e con trar y. N atu ral Hig h, of ten abbreviated as NH , is a n o r g aniz at io n t ha t s po nsors on -c amp u s su bstan ce abuse fr ee act i vi t i es

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

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t ha t o ffe r a p o si t i ve a lte rn at i ve to a b u si n g d ru gs a nd al coh ol. S ub s tan ce a n d a l c oh o l a b us e i s a r i s k y b e h av ior t ha t o cc ur s in Val d o st a o n a d ai l y b a s is a nd f r e q u e n t ly af fec t s t h os e w ho c h o o se t o n o t p ar t ic ip ate i n h i gh - ris k ed ac ti v it i e s . T h is me a n s t h a t i t a f f e ct s n ot on l y t h e a b use r , bu t o ur c oll e ge’ s c o mm u nit y , ca mpus , and s t ud ents. T he c o n s e qu en ce s fe l t fr o m t he se act i vit ies a re s e rio us a nd sho u ld n ot b e tak en li g h t l y. A r gu ab ly , t he big ge st con s eq u en ce ar o und t he ab use o f al co h o l an d ot he r sub stan ce s is th e po ssi b i l i ty of i nj ur y t o ei t he r the ab use r o r t o th os e ar o und t he m. Th e b i g ge s t i ss ue r e vol v in g a ro u nd the ab use of a lco hol a nd s ub s ta nce s is th e r i s k o f i n ju ry to t h e a bu s er and t o t h os e ar o u n d t h e m.

T he s e i n ju r i es can r an ge f r o m as s ault , eng agi n g i n fi s t f i gh t s , s exu al a b use and par ti c i pa ti n g i n un sa f e s e x, whi ch i n i t s el f i s a h ig h - r i sk ac t iv i ty . A n o th er c o ns e q ue nce i nvol ves v an da l is m a nd pr o pe r t y dama ge , wh ich 2

ca n inc lu d e brea kin g a t abl e a t t he ba r or sma shin g y ou r own TV. Th e m o s t da ngerou s con sequen c e o f ab u sin g a lc ohol a n d su bst a n c es i s dr ivin g w hi l e i n int oxic at ed. N o t onl y c a n t he abu se r go t o ja i l f or DU I, t hey c an also l ose th ei r lic en se. Mo s t deva st at in g l y, driv in g wh i l e u nd er t he in f lu en ce h as a h igh pr o babilit y of re su ltin g in a f a t al ca r ac c id en t . Th e pu rp ose of Natu ra l Hi g h is to sh ow st ud e nts t he y a re a bl e to h ave fu n in a safe , he alth y en vironmen t with ou t t h e u se of su bst an ces or alcoh ol .

NH h as fou r main even t s and one sp e cial e ven t. Th e m ain e ve nts in volve Ga me Board N ight , Game R o om Nigh t, Movie Nigh t an d th e ne wly add ed Ka ra ok e Nigh t. N H’ s spe cial nig h t is Bin go Night . Al l e ven ts pro vi de an d are f ree t o a ll act ive VSU st u de nt s. Wi t h aw aren ess, N H h op es t hat o u r st u de nt s wi ll c hoose a lt ern ative a ct ivities, o ver usin g alc oho l an d oth er su bst anc es, for h avin g f un .

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

Events in Detail G a me B oa rd Ni ght: Thi s n i gh t is u su ally NH ’ s most quiet a n d rel axi n g ni g h t , u nl e ss a he ate d ga me o f Un o or T aboo st art s u p. NH mem bers h ave th e c h o ic e t o p l ay w i t h a la r ge co l lec tion of board g ames with t heir f rien d s o r f el l o w cl u b me mbe r s.

G a me Roo m N i ght: The n i gh t when the Stu d ent U nion Ga me Ro om i s fr ee f or N H me mbe r s fo r th e dur ation of the event ( rou ghly thr ee h o urs).

Mo v i e Ni gh t: O ne of NH ’s m ore pop ular ev en ts an d it shows a mov ie th at was vo te d o n a we ek p r i o r, v ia email.

Ka r a oke Ni gh t : NH’ s ne we s t ev en t is an op en -mic sin g f est , mean ing , a ny o n e i s ab le t o si ng any s o ng o f t he ir c hoice . T hey are fre e t o sing as a s ol oi s t or w i t h a gr ou p. Mo s t o f the ti m e, a s an ic ebre aker, th is event in clu des a l ot of gr ou p s in gi ng o f Di sne y s ongs.

Bin go N i ght : NH’ s bi gg es t e ve nt t hat alw ay s ha s a larg e tu rnou t. T his i s t he ni g ht when VS U s t ud ent s te s t th e ir lu c k for p riz es we p rov ide . Th ese p r i ze s i ncl ud e po pu l ar C D’ s, new ly r ele ase d mov ie s, a la rge p ict ure f ra me, g a me b oa r ds , s cho ol s up pl i es , fr e e p izz a c ard s, a nd a ran d om blackou t priz e.

By C atheri ne Ca rm ic ha el ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

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Refresh Your Use recycling bins on campus Most colleges have recycling bins placed all around campus. Instead of dumping your plastic water bottles and notes from fall semester’s Psychology class in the trash can, find a bin! They are usually marked in green, blue and brown colors, and are placed by dumpsters or inside different buildings on campus.

Switch to flourecent bulbs

Plant something Develop a green thumb by planting flowers or a low-maintenance plant, and let it grow in your window sill. Certain plants (like Aloe Vera or Marginita) can absorb harmful toxins in the air, and whatever you end up planting will give you a stress-free view during final week! See Cathy Carmichael’s story on Dorm Window Gardening for ideas.

Marginita’s absorb toxins in the air

Guzzle water from a reusable bottle Tote around a B.P.A free or stainless steel water bottle. It is easy to clean and does not contain Bisphenol A, a compound that contains extra hormones. Trust me, one reusable bottle looks a lot better than having 15 empty Dasani bottles on your floor.

Turn off the tap

Ditch plastic and drink water from an eco-friendly bottle

Save water by turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth and washing your face. “You can also save up to 8 gallons of water a day simply by turning off the tap while you brush your teeth in the morning and at night.” (The DailyGreen.com)

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ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

Dorm Room A green dorm is a happy dorm Utilize power strips Instead of strategically placing extension cords around your room so every charger reaches an outlet, buy a power strip. It can have up to six electrical sockets and the power strip only plugs up to one socket in your wall. No more tripping on your way to class!

Decorate with cotton bedding Organic linen is a plus for us and the Earth. Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment (goodnightnaturals.com). It is great for sensitive skin and it is hypoallergenic. It is time to finally get a good night’s rest.

Reuse furniture Why buy new furniture for your room when you already have it from last year? More than likely, that mini-fridge is stored in your garage somewhere. Leave space in the landfills for something else. Items like the microwaves, refrigerators, hangers and bedding can be re-used every year. I go the extra mile and re-use my binders and other school supplies as well.

Kick out the artificial cleaning product Green, eco-friendly cleaners contain few or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). “VOCs are chemicals in many household products that can cause respiratory problems, headaches and dizziness from short-term exposure” LIVESTRONG.COM). Pick up some natural brands like Mrs. Meyers, Method or Simple Green from a nearby store. Better yet, start using natural ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

ingredients like lemon, baking soda and vinegar to clean places like your bathroom.

How many college students does it take to change a light bulb Switch your regular incandescent light bulbs out for fluorescent bulbs. The light bulbs emit 70% less heat, provide the same amount of light, and last up to 10 times lighter. “If every U.S. household replaced just one regular incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb, it would prevent 90 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions from power plants” . (environment.about.com)

Do not waste paper Try to print both sides when printing assignments, and only print when needed. Things like the class syllabus, you can look up online. Ask your professors about emailing them your assignments instead of handing them in. Use a laptop or tablet for taking notes during lecture classes.

Leave your binder at home and take notes on you laptop

Denise Pleasant

Photo Credit : Google.com

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EXPRESS YOUR-SELF By:Kendra Zollicoffer Imagine a tough, hard hitting, intimdating lawyer who takes no pity on her opponents in the courtroom. She approaches every day with a mindset to win, and an attitude that would intimidate just about anyone who falls in her line of vision. The most astonishing thing about her is the tailored suit she wears during every appearance she makes in court. Sleek and perfectly outlining her form, her attire always compliments her personality and shines to show the world the perfect harmony between her and the material she puts on her back. Not only does her choice of clothing perfectly match the setting she is in, but it also helps create the illusion of an intense, strong and very charismatic woman she wants the world to see. Do you feel that could have been accomplished if she were wearing a short, silk sundress and nude pumps? No. What a lot of people do not understand is the fact that a simple shirt and pants combination can be the paint on a body’s canvas, so to “True identification speak. of fashion sense not What the world sees only projects a peryou in gives insight on son’s dedication to who you really are. looking their best on Would an artist wear any occasion, but clothing indicating that also expresses their he or she is a nun? ability to pinpoint Would a Goth wear those things that preppy clothing and compliment whatSperry’s? The stateever setting they are ment you choose to present in, while givmake when putting on ing an accurate clothing should be one summary of their so effortlessly loud that personality”. it not only demands the attention of anyone that passes by, but immediately shows them the type of individual they are beholding.

Some people may be concerned with the steps it takes to develop one’s own fashion and do so successfully.

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Fashion is present in day-to-day life to inspire people to create their own so all you must do is find the will within your heart to learn more about fashion, (i.e. reading magazines, shopping online, reading blogs, or simply paying close attention to your favorite stars). Before

you know it, you will be that painting confidently strolling by in clothing that best suits you.

There are so many amazing levels of fashion to choose from in modern day society; one to fit every mood, every climate/sea-

son, and practically every encounter with another human being.

When developing your own fashion statement, it is most important to remember what is important to YOU. There is no need in involving yourself with someone else’s interests because you begin to shape and mold your own interests to match theirs, and let’s just be honest; no one likes a copycat.

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Some styles that a person looking to develop their own could consider: preppy, high-end, hip-hop urban street wear, sexy chic, hipster and even red carpet ready.

It is always around and waiting for the next person to obtain the beauty it can bring to a life...

“Fashion sense is one of those things that does not come to just anyone”.

A select few understand its depths and appreciate its effect on a dull life. The conception of an eye for fashion takes years to come by, with its necessary decisions and approval of different fabrics, colors and their schemes, size and even what day to wear a wonderful masterpiece of an outfit.

Knowledge and consideration for fashion and all of its perks is only for people that crave the good feeling that comes with purchasing a new Michael Kors purse or watch to accent their already “loud” assemble. And they are okay with the volumes it speaks as they cruise by.

The secret ”fashionistas” at heart understand that in order to be stylish anytime you walk out of the door, you must have knowledge on more than the current style of the day. You must understand the various types of fashion, and which setting is appropriate for each of them.

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Bartender’s Blunt Ever wonder what your bartender is thinking of your actions? Ever go out and ask was I too much the night before? Ever thought everyone has had their night of too much fun? Through the eyes of a bartender it really is a different world on the other side of the bar.

Well now you have a chance to learn with the do’s and don’ts of how you treat local bartenders.

Time to start off with the do’s of concerning your bartender. It’s your only night to get crazy with your friends, and your concerns for other people and the consequences of your actions have flown out the window of the taxi taking you to the bar five drinks ago. Remember that yes, it is a place for you to let loose your ambitions and drive to be a successful college student, but it is not a place for you to lose your manners.

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The number one rule is to always tip your bartender. The job may seem incredibly fun, and that it truly is, but the job can be incredibly exhausting. Working all the way up till four in the morning making drinks for people who can barely spell their own name is not the easiest task on the planet. Most bartenders also usually are still in school, and the job is paying for their education and overall livelihood, so remember to be courteous. Tipping can also score you a cheaper tab ; repeat tippers almost always become a usual and have a place within that bar they can call their own.

Another do is to clean up anything you spill on the bar. This action shows that you have respect for their place of work, and it will also usually catch the eye of the bartender. The final do is to speak loud and clear. Don’t scream at the top of your lungs, but know what you want when they get to you; get the order to the ears of the bartender as soon as possible so they can serve more customers. This action shows that your respectful of their job.

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& Honest Perspective Now it’s time for the don’ts while being at the bar. The number one don’t is not tipping. Walking off without tipping is not only rude, but bartenders talk, and they will more than likely remember you if you come back another time. If you don’t tip, don’t expect to be served quickly at all. Another don’t is being rude. Bartenders are not your free slaves for the night. They are the hand that feeds you your good time, so getting anxious and yelling at a bartender who is busy serving forty other people is no way of scoring any sort of quick service. The way to go about the situation is to hold up your money with an extended arm, don’t shake your arm up and down just wait, but do try to make eye contact. The best way to avoid waiting is to be a kind and generous person. The third don’t is to always remember to close your tab.

For one, the bar may actually just go ahead and charge your card its standard walk out fee, but it also shows the staff that you’re irresponsible and most likely can’t handle your alcohol.

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Just remember that a bar is a place of business, and the people that work there are trying to make a buck just like anyone else. Although it is a place to let it loose, just remember not every night is your birthday, and have some barrier to let yourself know when your actions are crossing the line.

Easy Drinks Dirty Sherley - 1 part Vodka - 1 part Grenadine - 2 Parts Sprite Tequila Sunrise - 1 part Tequila - 3 Parts Orange Juice - 1/2 Grenadine Sea Breeze - 1 Part Vodka - 4 parts Cranberry - 1 Part Grapefruit Lemon Drop - 1 Part Vodka - 1 Part Triple sec - 1 Part Sour/Lemon Juice

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Straight Up Tasty

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Berry Paloma with Mint 12

http://www.pocotequila.com/tqcocktails/drinks02paloma.html http://cocktails.about.com/od/embellishments/ss/rm_glass_4.htm ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013 http://www.tequila.net/faqs/tequila/types-of-tequila-classifications.html

The Paloma is a refreshing citrus drink known famously by many names such as: "Refesco de Toronja con Tequila", "Squirt con Tequila", “Squirt con Cazadores” or “ Squirt con Hornitos”. This drink mimics its American counterpart, the Maragarita, with its citrus taste, but requires a lot less hassle to make. . The use of either tequila blanco or reposado will give the drink a different personality, depending on how strong or sweet you want your Paloma. Tequila blanco is the clear and un-aged

Ingredients

2 oz blanco or reposado tequila 6 oz fresh grapefruit soda 1/2 oz lime juice 3 oz Strawberry Juice 2 drops mint extract Halved Strawberries, Limes, and

form of the spirit. This from from of tequila embodies the flavor of the Agave plant from which tequila is made, as well as its sweetness.

Tequila reposado means that the spirit is in its first stage of aging. Because the tequila is aged in wood barrels, the color is no longer clear, but gold and has a mixture of Agave and wood flavoring. Usually this drink is made with only lime and grapefruit juice, and tequila, however I added in the strawberry juice for the sweetness to soften the bite of the tequila. The mint adds to the refreshing quality of the drink. The Paloma is a great drink to cool off with on a hot Summer Day.

Directions

Combine the tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, Strawberry juice, and mint extract in a separate cup or glass Stir slightly to mix ingredients

Grapefruit for decoration (optional)

Rim the serving glass(es) with salt

Kosher salt for rimming (optional)

Serve

Instructions for Glass Rimming

Wet the rim of the glass by running a lime or grapefruit half along the edge of the rim Put salt (or sugar) on a saucer or bowl and dab the wet rim of the glass into the salt while turning the glass slowly making sure only the outer edge is covered Shake off excess salt ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013 Fill your rimmed glass with desired beverage

13 By: Autumn Sullivan

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ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013 Photo Credit:Jennifer Marlatt

Levine states the obvious in the previous lines, but he then shifts to the ‘absence of light.’

The small things have become repressed by things that don't matter, and that is what is truly disappointing to Levine.

Levine ironically shifts the attention towards the reader and asks, “Can you taste what I’m saying?” Do you taste the ‘onions and potatoes’ or do you taste the ‘simple truth’ that has Photo Credit:Frances Levine gone unspoken? Because all these simple truths are so obvious that we do not find any truth in o you know the simple truth? Well you can them at all. Levine brings life to these common certainly read Philip Levine’s The Simple situations, gestures and items by defining them in Truth to figure it out. Published in 1994, The Simple Truth awarded him the Pulitzer Prize for very ironic ways. These truths cannot be spoken Poetry. His book pinpoints the ‘simple truths’ of of because they are all so obvious, he writes: the ironic, everyday life in which he lived in the It stays in the back of your throat like a 1930s and 1940s in Detroit, Michigan. Although truth you never uttered because the time that time frame seems a long time ago, and we was always wrong, it stays there for the live nowhere near Detroit, Levine paints a picture of truths that cannot be seen through the ordirest of your life, unspoken, made of that nary eye of society. His poetry embodies a society dirt we call earth, the metal we call salt, in that seems destroyed, darkened and deserted, a form we have no words for, and you live similar to the society in which we live today. on it.

Philip Levine writes about the true nature of the working man by depicting the lives of real Levine expresses how he and his friend or fake people, who have taught him simple Henri finally discovered this simple truth “before truths about life. The simple truths he brings to he began to kill himself.” Can you taste what he is life in his book are so simple they almost have no saying? It’s better to know the truth and die alone importance but to the poet or the reader. Levine’s than to not know any truth at all. ironic imagery in the title poem, “The Simple I believe Philip Levine has spoken for a Truth” reveal much more than the ‘Polish’ woman generation of working class people who have truly who sold him the potatoes and demanded that he gone unnoticed. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of eat, or the ‘pinch of salt’ and ‘wealth of melting his books I have read so far, and would butter.’ These images are simple and true to our advise everybody to read Philip Levine and The everyday lives yet they are never spoken about Simple Truth, What Work Is, and News of the because Levine writes: World. I am a young, college student and I can Some things you know all your life. They feel the same emotions as Philip Levine through are so simple and true they must be said the poetry he creates, and that is what makes without elegance, meter and rhyme, they poetry a ‘simple truth.’ must be laid on the table beside the salt shaker, the glass of water, the absence of light gathering in the shadows of picture frames, they must be naked and alone, Jennifer Marlatt they must stand for themselves.

D

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JourNalists : ? t x e N s ’ t a Wh “A career as a journalist is your not only option.”

M

ay 4, 2013 will be a day that remains in nervous, mind-wrecking thoughts than when I the mind of many Valdosta State initially stepped foot on campus. students for the rest of their lives. After a typical journey of packing bags, moving away for four fter constant confusion and numerous major changes, I landed on grueling years of studies, partying, and test-taking “There are opportunities my true calling of journalism.

It allows me to do what I love, (for many, that list has everywhere.” which is share my ideas to not necessarily been prioritized), students will be tossed into the “real anyone willing to read or listen. The world of world” with nothing more than a diploma and journalism is expanding at an amazing rate. thousands of dollars of debt from student loans. Much of this expansion is due to advances in technology and social media. Many journalists make their living from home, doing nothing Where is the help? more than discussing current events from their laptops. raduation, for many, is viewed as the CAreer OptiOns culmination of a lifelong dream and an astounding accomplishment. It will mark the passage for many into a world of adulthood that raduates need not fear, however. Just has never been experienced. As someone who because you major in journalism does not will be graduating just a short time after this necessarily mean that a career as a journalist is publication is released, I am filled with more your only option.

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 

editor in Chief Journalism students are taught countless skills that are valuable in life.

For example, journalists are able to read and edit others’ writing samples, which can lead to job opportunities as an editor of magazine, newspaper, or book publishing company.

Newspapers are released daily around the world, and there are thousands of books published every year.

Grant Writer

Many nonprofit organizations need grant writers. A grant writer’s job is simple: You are paid to get the company money. You write grants, grants are approved, and in turn, you receive a paycheck. Journalists have ample experience in English, grammar, and creative writing that can help tremendously in this profession.





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photojournalist

Another option for journalism students is working as a Sports Information Director. In this profession, your job is to travel all over your city, state, or country (depending on who you work for) in order to collect information regarding sporting events and athletes in those respective areas.

Also, you would have the opportunity to coordinate media events and coverage for sporting events.

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sports information Director

Students can also rest on the fact that journalism extends beyond a pen, pad and computer screen. A major aspect of journalism sits behind the lens of a camera. Photojournalists are able to tell stories that are just as valuable as the reporters that put sentences on paper. Many newspapers, magazines and other organizations look to photographers for special ways of communication that cannot be expressed with words.

OppOrtunities

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There are opportunities everywhere. We are multi-talented and able to entertain many different careers. No need to worry, journalists. Take those degrees with pride; there will always be a need for us.

James Washington ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

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WhaT’s Bugging YO

u?

T he T ragic Tale OF

loveBugs

WHAT ARE LOVEBUGS? As the weather begins to heat up, we can expect an appearance from our favorite bugs: Lovebugs.

They made their first appearance in Louisiana and from there they migrated across Mississippi, Alabama and Florida; stopping by Georgia on their way to South Carolina.

The now Georgia natives appear in large numbers in April-May and August- September.

Lovebugs are relatives of mosquitoes and gnats, which explains where they get their trait of annoyance from. Unlike mosquitoes, Lovebugs do not bite or sting.

Lovebugs are easily identified by their black, slender bodies and red thorax. They can generally span from 1/3 inch to Âź inch in length; males being longer than females. In general, they live for three to four days, but males living a day longer than females.

These three to four days include finding a mate, producing offspring and then dropping off the food chain. Imagine having only two days to find a mate and strive for offspring. We would have to find love, get married and 18

immediately have kids which will set us back nine months.

THE MATING PROCESS Mating begins with the males choosing a mate. They prefer larger, heavier females because they provide better odds of reproducing and mating. As females emerge from the vegetation, males instantly plunge down and seize a female. Males have to act quickly or else they lose their chance at the mating partner of their dreams.

Love bug mating can be quite competitive.

Desperate males will grasp a female that is already mating with a male in an attempt to interrupt mating. After finding a mate, the pair will relax on the vegetation below and finish their mating process, during which the male faces the opposite direction of the female.

Dogs mate and become stuck together for a few minutes, maybe even hours but Lovebugs are stuck to their mates forever. That is why they seem like very clumsy fliers. How can you fly with someone attached to you going in the opposite ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

direction? Mating Lovebugs are in the Honey- Lovebugs. With those odds, I am sure that it moon phase. would be somewhat easy to find a mate.

Every time I Imagine not being have seen a Lovebug, lucky enough to even they have been in the find a mate.

Honeymoon phase. I This means that you think it would be safe either spend your last to consider Lovebugs days being sprayed to creatures of PDA. But death by insecticide, with their short life being sprayed by a expectancy, they water hose, being have to exhibit PDA stuck to the every chance they get. windshield of a car or Photo Credit: ZacharyToday.com Lovebugs fly around on a human’s bumper in the honeymoon (fender). You could phase, which means they are not afraid to have even be lost to sex in public places or spread their spawn across wander someone’s big back yard, until you drop miles. They are similar to trees spreading their from the food chain. pollen everywhere; we all know what pollen is.

LOVEBUGS: STAGES Female Lovebugs lay from 100 to 350 eggs that are deposited underneath debris and decaying vegetation; this refers to trash, plants, grass etc. After 20 days, the larvae hatch and feed on the decaying plant vegetation. Larvae assume the role of decomposer by turning the plant substance into nutrients that can be used by growing plants. Once the larvae mature and have stopped feeding on the decomposing vegetation, they pupate.

During the pupal stage, the larvae’s body begins to develop the features of Lovebugs. With humans, the pupal stage takes place in the womb.

Imagine hundreds of bugs laying from 100 to 350 eggs per couple; that is a lot of ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

LOVEBUGS AS PEST’S

Besides their tragic love stories, people are not quite fond of Lovebugs. When Lovebugs splatter on a windshield, their fatty remnants can make a windshield unclear, hindering the vision of an unsuspecting driver. They can clog radiator fins and cause pitting in a car’s finish.

Lovebugs are prey to birds and fungi and enemies to humans and insecticides. Soaking Lovebugs with water helps with their removal.

Besides clogging radiators, hindering vision of drivers and causing pitting in a car’s finish, bugs are actually quite harmless to a certain extent.

Will knowing the background story of Lovebugs change our attitude towards them?

Erin Ellis 19

The Comparison Game

Lately many sports analysts, announcers and fans have been making comparisons between LeBron James and other great players like Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.

Logically these comparisons don’t make sense because LeBron James is unlike any other player we have ever seen. His size, and skill set make him uncanny to any other player in the world.

Kobe comparisons to Jordan make sense because of their playing style, but Jordan just so happens to be in another league that Kobe could never catch.

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Jordan has recently come out and said that he would take Kobe over James because “five beats one every time” (referring to the amount of championships they have).

But by that logic, with eleven rings as a player amd coach, wouldn’t Bill Russell be the best player of all time?

My point is that championships matter, but people base too much of their opinion on the amount of championships a player has.

Just because a player hasn’t won a championship doesn’t mean he is any less of a player.

Kobe has 5 rings, but he only has two Finals MVP awards. Jordan won six championships ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

best to ever play the game of basketball. What and six finals MVP awards. Jordan has I am getting at is that James may very well be also never lost an NBA Finals series in his caconsidered the best all-around player ever to reer. play, and that may add up to being the greatest This puts Jordan on a different playing player of all-time. Now, field than anyone that they this is only of course if he compare him to in my book.

I wouldn’t even make continues to get better, the James comparison to Jorbut at this point he has shown no signs of slowing dan or Johnson because you down. can’t compare apples and oranges.

If I were making a team today based on playJames is a different breed, and people need to uners from every era I would derstand that. He is not a pick Jordan first without shooting guard like Jordan -NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jor- question.

Next, would be was, and he isn’t a point guard dan, explaining why he would prelike Johnson was. fer Kobe Bryant over LeBron James James, followed by JohnHe is what they call a son. point forward.

Sorry Kobe...

Every team doesn’t have someone who can play the forward and point guard position Who would you pick? so he this makes him a rare luxury.

Don’t get me wrong, Jordan is still the

By Terrance Johnson

“...Five beats one every time.”

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Race To Standings: 1. SanAntonio Spurs 2. Oklahoma City Thunder 3. L.A. Clippers 4. Denver Nuggets 5. Memphis Grizzles 6. Golden State Warriors 7. Houston Rockets 8. L.A. Lakers 9. Utah Jazz 10. Dallas Mavericks (As of 4/2/2013)

San Antonio Spurs have clinched a playoff berth, but are still battling with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top spot in the Western Conference it is sure to come down to the wire. Holding a one game lead over the Thunder the last few games mean a lot for the Spurs, but it will be a challenge with the loss of Manu Ginobili for an extended period of time and an injury to defensive minded Kawhi Leonard the Spurs are in for a challenge. Tony Parker’s return to the court after a month long from an ankle sprain looks to be promising for the Spurs, but Parker must return to basketball shape after the long absence.

The Oklahoma City Thunder holds the second spot in the Western Conference fighting to catch the Spurs and take the top spot in the West. Regardless of anything, the Thunder are the front runners to come out of the West and make it to the NBA Finals. The development of both Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook promises the Thunder a great run to get a ring. This being their fourth year in a row making the playoffs, last two years in the Conference Finals and last year to the NBA Finals, the Thunder are looking to make the next step in becoming the team to beat in the NBA. The Los Angeles Clippers is not the team you expect to hear in the top 4 seeds of teams, because of their history and them sharing the city with the Lakers, but led by Chris Paul the Clippers are looking to make a lot of noise in the playoffs. Acquiring Chris Paul and the development of Blake Griffin has been the turning point for the Clipper Organization with highlights and a winning record to match my claim. With the Lakers dominating the headlines with their dismal play for such a storied franchise, the Clippers have flown under the radar not receiving the proper coverage due to their counterparts.

The Clippers have a chance to run the table and possibly come out of the west if the Thunder lose.

The Memphis Grizzlies are a wild card in this Western Conference, due to the lack of a superstar player that they traded away for more role players. Thought to be a bad trade by many, the Grizzlies have improved in defense, but lack someone who can create a shot on his own. They do have some of the best two big men in the game with Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph to lead the way with their punishing play on the boards and putting up points for their team also. Gasol coming back from his abdominal strain was a great boost for the Grizziles. They hope to make a strong run in the playoffs with Gasol leading the way.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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The Ring

.

By Ray Pack Jr.

The defending Champions Miami Heat is coming into playoff form with their suffocating defense and vast amounts of scoring to match. Heat lead by Finals MVP LeBron James has showed this form with a 27 game win streak leading up to the playoffs. This is sure to be a great playoff by the way the Heat has been playing. With LeBron on another MVP season and Dwayne Wade as his counterpart they are destined for another trip to the NBA Finals. Their biggest challenge will be either the New York Knicks or the Indiana Pacers, based on size in the paint, but the Heat have overcome a lot this season to be as great as they are. The Heat hope to win their second title in a row, but it will not be an easy task to win it.

Standings: 1. Maimi Heat 2. Indiana Pacers 3. New York Knicks 4. Brooklyn Nets 5. Chicago Bulls 6. Atlanta Hawks 7. Boston Celtics 8. Milwaukee Bucks

Carmelo Anthony has lead the Knicks to the number three spot in the Eastern Conference, with vast contributions from big men Tyson Chandler and Amare Stoudemire they look to get out of the first round this year. This has been a constant problem for Anthony only being out of the first rounds once in his ten-year career in the NBA. This New York Knicks team has the potential to come out of the East with their three point shooting, great bench, and their defense anchor Chandler coming back of a neck injury is a plus for the Knicks. He will be the key to the success of the Knicks and their run in the playoffs.

Indiana Pacers are looking to take the next step in becoming a high-caliber team. With the emergence of Paul George as a star player on their team, the Pacers have definitely gotten better from the year before. George must step up with the loss of their superstar Danny Granger to a knee injury that will sideline him for the rest of the year. The Pacers have an advantage inside with the presence of 7’2 big man Roy Hibbert, who has come into his potential over the past two season, and David West they look to dominate the boards. The Pacers have a chance to make it to the Finals as long as they stray away from the Heat until the third round.

With the move to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Nets have lived up to expectations with their play and receiving a playoff berth, something they haven’t done in the past 6 seasons. The Nets acquired Joe Johnson from the Hawks to help Deron Williams with the scoring and leadership of the team. This proved to propel the team from out of the playoffs to expected playoffs every year. With the new team being their first year together, their chemistry is coming into full effect as the playoffs grow near. They look to put up a fight, but they must have the right firepower and defense to beat other elite teams.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

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Saturdays are about getting dirty at 2229 E Park Ave. Upon entering the parking lot of Mindful Massage and Bodyworks, your mind starts to wonder if you are in the right place. The building is unassuming and does not catch the eye even though it is facing East Park Ave. as cars fly down the road.

On the left side of the parking lot are two young trees (no more than ten years of age), draped over each other that lead visitors to the land behind Mindful Massage and Bodyworks and to Blazer Gardens.

Soon after exchanging pleasantries, everyone get right to work.

Blazer Gardens is a stu24

dent organization at VSU dedicated to growing food organically using sustainable and popular methods to promote gardening.

The organization started three years ago when students saw a lack of available, affordable and healthy food on campus when students were struggling.

“As you know prices for food on campus can range from seven to eight dollars,” said Benjamin Veith, senior anthropology major and President of Blazer Gardens.

Former president Bobby Hancock came up with the idea to start the garden.

“The best part out this is giving students the knowledge

ability to choose their food and how they grow it,” Danielle Costello, Vice President of Blazer Gardens said. “There are a lot of choices that students don t get to make about what goes into their food and how it is grown.”

As Benjamin starts to check cabbage, Costello builds wooden enclosures for the plants to maintain healthy growth all while deterring animals.

“You can build a box, section it off and have crops grown inside it,” Costello said. “Then we put straw over the dirt in the box to protect it from erosion and different bugs that could possibly kill the crop before it starts.

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Top: Red cabbage grown from the winter Garden by Daniell Costello.

Left: Benjamin Veith Right: Jennifer Veith

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The sounds of the nail gun driving through the plywood breaks the silence of the ambience that surrounds the garden.

Costello and Veith’s Wife Jennifer, who serves as the Off Campus Advisor laugh about previous crops that have failed because of the lack of knowledge they had when the two first started gardening.

Off to the side, Benjamin stands to the side watching as

the two women chuckle and builds another enclosure.

has more interest in all natural foods than the average person; because he has one kidney.

Veith lost his kidney in a training exercise while stationed in California during his time in the military.

“About two weeks in I realized that I had a urinary tract infection during our three week exercise,” said Veith. “I tried to push through it, but one day I woke up very sick with a 107 degree tempature. I was medically evacuated and within a couple of days they told me my kidney had to go.”

Veith says what goes into his body is only organic now and advises other students to continue the organization initiative and make this a community garden.

The tract infection had spread into my kidney and created a kidney infection.

Blazer gardens wants everyone is open to anyone who would like to help or just learn about gardening.

Because of the infection Veith’s urinary tract pumped toxins back into his body.

The damage was irreversible.

“I’ll never take a chance on my health again,” said Veith. “I’m more cautious about my health than anyone. If I have kids, I would never want them to go through the same thing I did and that is why I will teach them to eat healthy as well. “

“Community gardens build public relations in the community, it is one of the reasons.

Interested students can stop by every Saturday at 10 a.m to help out.

For more information and gardening tips, visit Blazer Gardens on Facebook at “Blazer Gardens.”

Costello and the Veith’s are all seniors and urge underclassmen to come out and keep the traditions going.

Left to right: Daniell Costello, Benjamin Veith and Jennifer Veith all do their part to build an enclosure.

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ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

Put Some Flavor In Your Ear!

By Ray Pack Jr.

Kid Cudi – Indicud (April 23, 2013)

Snoop Lion – Reincarnated (April 23, 2013) With his first solo album in 2 years the legendary Snoop Dogg drops “Reincarnated” a reggae album under his new moniker Snoop Lion.

Snoop traveled to Jamaica studied the Niyabinghi branch of the Rastafari Movement this lead to the title of the album and he will also be releasing a documentaty film also entitled “Reincarnated” showing the culture, explorations and the transformation of his name into Snoop Lion. His lead single “No Guns Allowed” featuring his daughter Cori B and Young Money Artist Drake promoted the peace in the world.

Tyga – Hotel California (April 9, 2013) Coming off his sophomore album “Careless World: Rise Of The Last King”, the Young Money Entertainment Artist follows up with his junior album called “Hotel California.”

With the smash hit “Dope” featuring Rick Ross and keeping the fans intrestered with the mixtapes “Well Done 3” and “187”, and features from Wiz Khalifa, Lil Wayne, Jadakiss, Chris Brown, Future, 2 Chainz, and the legendary 2pac promises for good music.

Putting a rock album under your belt withDot Da Genius under the group name WZRD (pronunced one letter at at time), Kid Cudi releases his third studio album named “Indicud” the title was initally thought to be “Man On The Moon III” becoming the thrid installment to the series. This being his first solo album since 2010 the album is sure to be Kid Cudi at his best with his different approach to music and the rhythm he creates with people will promise for a good album. With singles like “Immortal” “Just What I Am” and “Girls” at the forefront of his album including features from Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, King Chip, and the legendary RZA just to name a few, Cudi album sures to be entertaining.

Out Now:

Other Upcoming Albums:

Lil Wayne - I Am Not A Human Being II

Chrisette Michele - Better

Justin Timberlake - The 20/20 Experience

LL Cool J - Authentic

Ashanti - Braveheart

Eve - Lip Lock

Tyler, The Creator - Wolf

French Montana - Excuse Me French

Will.I.Am - #willpower

YMCMB - Rich Gang: Flashy Lifestyle

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Simply Dad A heartfelt story of a daughter’s love, affection...and gratitude

A magazine cover commemorating Tuggle’s induction to the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.

(Photo credit: Jimmy Cribbs)

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Photo credit: Jessica Tuggle

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When football fans think of Jessie Tuggle, many think of a small-framed, 5' 11", 230-pound linebacker who went to Valdosta State College in Valdosta, Georgia.

He is given a great deal of credit as a leader of Valdosta State College’s first-ever winning football season.

In the eyes of Atlanta Falcons fans, Jessie Tuggle is one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise.

A 14-year NFL veteran, he is known as "The Hammer," a nickname given to mirror the impact of his tackles.

He appeared in Super Bowl XXXIII, five Pro Bowls, and his 1,293 tackles led the National Football League from 1990 to 1999.

He is a member of the VSU Hall of Fame, the College Football Hall of Fame, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, and the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor.

But when the game is over, the crowds have gone, and the helmet and pads come off, I don’t see the numerous accolades that made him a gridiron legend.

When I look at Jessie Tuggle, what I see…is simply Dad. Growing up, I remember spending many Sundays in the Georgia Dome. A special part of my childhood, this all-day affair sometimes included bringing my pompoms or getting my face painted 15 minutes prior kickoff.

I can also remember being glued to the television during every away game the Falcons played.

My father has influenced, inspired and impacted my academics from the time I could read.

He has done the same for my athletic career ever since the day I could run. He encouraged me to try any sport I wanted. He was there to congratulate me after every victory and to console me after every defeat.

My father demonstrated a strong work ethic on the field and in the confines of our home. I remember the many times I would fall asleep in his lap as he spent countless hours watching film from previous games in order to prepare for upcoming matchups. He studied the tendencies of the opposing teams, re29

viewed what he did correctly, and always learned from his mistakes.

One afternoon, Daddy and I sat down for coffee in the kitchen and talked about how his career got started at Valdosta State University.

I asked Dad what attracted him to Valdosta State after graduating from Griffin High School (in Griffin, GA).

“I decided to attend VSU because of the people I met on my recruiting trip,” he said. “I also liked the campus."

Dad still teases me about the fact that I am a student-athlete at VSU. When I was a child, I always told him that I would never go to his alma mater.

I didn't want to go somewhere that everyone looked at me simply as “Jessie Tuggle's daughter”.

Yet, once I visited the campus, I fell in love with the university for the same reasons he did.

Next, I asked Dad to recall his most memorable moment as a Blazer football player.

He began telling me a story about the summer before his senior season. The head coach at the time was Mike Calvin. Calvin was a former assistant coach at the University of Georgia when the Bulldogs recruited Hershel Walker, another NFL legend.

Coach Calvin invited Herschel to speak to the Blazers football team in 1986.

"I will never forget that moment because [Herschel] was a legend here in the state of Georgia," Dad said.

He finished the story telling me that he was tackling Herschel Walker in the NFL the following year.

During the 2012 football season, Dad did not travel to Valdosta for many games. His son, Justin Tuggle, was playing in his senior season for the Kansas State University Wildcats as a linebacker.

During finals week at VSU, I asked Dad if we could drive to Florence, Alabama if the Blazers won (their semifinal game) in Minnesota against the Mavericks (of Minnesota StateMankato).

“Of course,” he said.

Dad described himself as being "happy" 30

for the Blazers and what they accomplished in 2012.

"Being back in Florence, Alabama for the National Championship was great,” he said. “No one around the country knew anything about the Valdosta State College Blazers in 1983. After winning our 3rd National Championship on ESPN, I left Florence so proud to be a Blazer!"

I couldn't have said it any better.

"Obviously, it means a great deal to me for the VSU Blazers to be [three-time] National Champions,” Dad said. “There was a lot of blood, sweat, and tears that helped the program grow.”

He went on to further explain his allegiance to the Blazer Nation.

“The football program started in 1982,” he said. “I was on the second team ever in 1983, and the first winning team. I feel like I’m a part of VSU history and I am proud of it.”

I am so grateful to have a father like him.

Although I may have told Dad I would never attend VSU, I am more than honored to go to his alma mater.

I’ve finally gotten used to people knowing me as “Jessie Tuggle’s daughter,” but I cannot wait to leave my own mark on the campus.

By Jessica Tuggle

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

Below: A young Jessica Tuggle reaches out to her father at an Atlanta Falcons game.

(Photo credit: Jimmy Cribbs)

“When I look at [Jessie Tuggle], what I see...is simply ‘Dad’...

...I am so grateful to have a father like him.”

Opposite: A photo of Jessie Tuggle stands in VSU’s Student Union.

~Jessica Tuggle

(Photo credit: James Washington)

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Valdosta High School’s 1971 Varsity Football Captains: (Top row, left to right) Steve Stanaland, Alvin Payton, Stan Bounds (Bottom row, left to right) Calvin Lester, Scott Griffin, David Berrian (Photo Courtesy of Lowndes County Historical Society)

Remember the Wildcats How one team made history...overcoming countless obstacles on and off the field

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The “Titletown, USA” trophy, surrounded by Valdosta High School’s six national championship football trophies.

(Photo credit: Jefferies Eldridge)

N

ever underestimate the heart of a champion.

Football is a key component of Georgia heritage, and much of that credit is due to Valdosta. In their storied history, Valdosta High School’s football program has won 41 regional, 23 state, and six national championships.

Also to their credit, the Wildcats have the distinction of having the most wins of any high school football program in the United States.

Their 876 wins (through the end of the 2012 season) completely eclipse the win totals of the nearest competition. The closest schools (Washington in Massillon, Ohio and Male in Louisville, Kentucky) stand at 821 wins each.

Since their inception in 1913, the Wildcats have only suffered five losing seasons.

The Wildcats’ success extends beyond

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

high school. Only the University of Michigan (903) boasts a football program with more wins than Valdosta High School, and the Wildcats sit an amazing 145 games ahead of the Chicago Bears, who currently hold the record for the most wins in the history of the National Football League (731).

Here in Valdosta, named “Titletown, USA”

by ESPN in 2008, many look at the history of the Wildcats and choose only to highlight their accolades.

No success, however, comes without obstacles.

From 1968-1970, the Wildcats went on a streak of 36 wins, zero losses, and one tie. However, after the team lost a great deal of players to graduation, many people chose to write the team off as an early failure. They were projected to finish the 1971 season with a 5-5 record and miss the playoffs.

Calvin Lester, 59, played guard for the ’71 Wildcats.

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During his junior year he barely saw any time on the field.

“I was a ‘pine-rooter’,” says Calvin. “Kids nowadays call ‘em ‘benchwarmers’.”

After the 1970 Wildcats finished their season one game short of a state title, young Calvin took it up on himself to motivate the team.

He credits one particular post-game speech as a major reason behind the soon-to-be success of the 1971 team.

“There were seniors crying on the bus,” says Calvin. “That was the only game that those guys lost in their high school careers. I told the rest of the team that we had to win a state title for them.”

Frank Lester, 61, is Calvin’s older brother. He played defensive end for the Wildcats during the 1970 season.

“I never would have thought that [Calvin] had a leadership gene in him,” says Frank. “He always came across as the type that followed along. But I learned a lot about my brother that year.”

The team opened the season in impressive fashion, only allowing 22 points in their first five games, including two shutouts against Thomasville (49-0) and Bainbridge (28-0).

According to Calvin, the first true test of the season would come in week six.

“We were lookin’ at Colquitt County that week,” says Calvin. I knew we had our work cut out for us.”

Once again, in the fashion of true leadership, Calvin took charge.

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“I was a ‘pine-rooter’...Kids nowadays call ‘em ‘benchwarmers’.”

-Calvin Lester

“Normally, after practice, the coaches would make us run a straight sprint to the locker room,” says Calvin. “I told the coaches and the team that one sprint wasn’t gonna cut it.

[Colquitt] will run us ragged if we don’t prepare.”

Sure enough, in their following battle against the Packers of Colquitt County, the Wildcats faced their stiffest

competition, going into the final quarter of the game tied at 21.

It could have been the extra sprints from practice. It could have been sheer will. In the end, the Wildcats celebrated a 42-21 victory over the Packers.

The rest of Valdosta saw the Wildcats’ victory as a regular game.

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there was an equal, if not greater, struggle taking place within the school.

Valdosta High School was fully integrated in 1969 and, as expected, not everyone welcomed the change.

Calvin recalls many painful moments from his experiences with the team.

“Bringing [Black students] over from Pinevale didn’t do much for us,” he says. “We might have been playing together, but at the end of the day we still went to separate locker rooms.”

During the fall of 1969, rumors began circulating thatthe voting was being fixed to prevent a Black student from winning Homecoming Queen.

“Soon as word spread, we The Valdosta High School 1971 Varsity Football team.

(Photo credit: Lowndes County Historical Society)

The team saw it much differently.

It was their win over the Packers that finally brought their potential into perspective.

“It was that game that made the guys realize what I had been sayin’ all along,” says Calvin. “In that final quarter, we finally understood that wehad what it took to be champions, and there was no lookin’ back after that.”

The team continued their dominance on the field in astonishing fashion.

Coached by the legendary

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1971 National Sports News High School Football Rankings

Wright Bazemore, the team forever etched their names into the record books with an 1) Valdosta (GA) undefeated season (13-0), 2) (Tie) Tulsa B.T. Washington capped with a 62-12 victory in (OK) the state championship game 2) (Tie) Alexandria T.C. against Avondale.

To add to their credit, Williams (VA) their season total of 629 4) Tennessee (TN) points stood as a Georgia 5) Pittsburgh Kiski Area (PA) record for 23 years.

6) New Orleans Brother Martin The team’s success, ac(LA) cording to Calvin, came from 7) East Waterloo (IA) “a perfect blend of speed, quickness, and rugged mus8) Warren Harding (OH) cle.”

9) Chicago St. Rita (IL) For all the success that 10) San Antonio Lee (TX) the team saw on the field,

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fixed that,” says Calvin. “A lot of the Black players walked out on the team. We knew they wouldn’t play without us.”

In 1971, Calvin was named a team captain.

This appointment also came under controversy.

After three Black players were chosen as team captains, the coaches appointed three White players for racial balance.

“Coach [Bazemore] knew that the boosters wouldn’t accept three African-American captains,” says Calvin. “We had to reach a compromise, and that’s why we were the first team in Valdosta High’s history to have six captains.”

To add insult to injury, 1971 marked the first year that the Valdosta Daily Times did not feature a captains’ lineup or photo in the newspaper.

“I told everybody to be lookin’ out for that [newspaper],” says Calvin. “But when it came out, we were nowhere to be found.”

Before the season, the Wildcats were overlooked. In the end, their efforts resulted in their twenty-third regional, fifteenth state, and third national titles.

Years later, a story similar to their own was made into a movie.

Ironically, not only was the movie not about Valdosta, the Wildcats weren’t even mentioned.

Released in 2000, Walt Disney’s Remember the Titans tells the story of T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia andtheir battles with racism when

36

the school integrated in 1971.

When Valdosta High School was named the National Champions that year, T.C. Williams tied for second place in the final polls.

According to the film, the Titans dealt with racial tension from society, fellow players, and even coaches.

Through it all, the Titans banded together and finished the season undefeated.

However, at the end of the day there can only be one national champion.

“Everything that they went through, we had done it two years prior,” says Calvin.

“1971 was ours because our worst year was a memory. The only real difference I saw between them and us was that their head coach [Herman

Boone] was Black.””

While the movie received critical acclaim, the national response in 1971 was quite opposite.

“We had never even heard of them,” says Calvin. “I didn’t know anything about those guys until I saw the movie. I thought, ‘Why not us?’”

Calvin Lester and his teammates will forever hold a special place in Georgia history.

Football fans have a feature film to help them remember the Titans. In South Georgia, fans, former players, and loved ones have their own memories to remember the 1971 Wildcats.

By James A. Washington

Valdosta Wildcats 1971 Football Schedule Thomasville (W, 49-0) Dougherty County (W, 47-7) Crisp County (W, 49-7) Bainbridge (W, 28-0) Albany (W, 41-8) Colquitt County (W, 42-21) Albany Monroe (W, 75-22) Albany Westover (W, 47-6) Tift County (W, 60-28) Lowndes (W, 40-0) Warner Robins (W, 35-6) Lucy Laney (W, 54-20) Avondale (W, 62-12)

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Valdosta High School’s Varsity Offense.

(Photo credit: Lowndes County Historical Society)

Valdosta High School’s Varsity Defense.

(Photo credit: Lowndes County Historical Society)

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Valdosta High School Head Football Coach Wright Bazemore with Rick Peterson during a game in 1971.

(Photo credit: Lowndes County Historical Society)

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Calvin Lester poses for his Senior football photo in 1971.

(Photo credit: Lowndes County Historical Society)

Calvin Lester (left) and his brother, Frank, in November 2012.

(Photo credit: James Washington)

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 What’s Bugging Yo u?  Rant & Rave        I love that VSU offers art exhibitions, plays and recitals to us for free, or at cheaper prices than the real world.

Juniors are not allowed to register for senior classes unless they have 60 credits. I had 59 credits and I had to wait nearly an entire semester before I could get registered. I think that's what's getting everybody behind on their graduation schedule.

There are so many student organizations to join on campus that anyone can find a place where they belong. I appreciate that.

Overall, I like Valdosta State but one problem that we do have is with the parking. With the new semester they implemented a new rule where there’s less parking for students on campus. Now there’s more parking for students off campus.

Students that parked in the Oak Street parking lot now have to park in Centennial and Sustella.

That makes it harder for students in Centennial to find actual parking spots. I really think they should really do something about that.

The stores on campus--Langdale Market and Sustella Market--are really convenient if you don’t have a car. It’s nice that they actually have real food and not just snacks.

We need a sub place on campus! All of these fast food places on campus are going make us gain the "freshmen 30” instead of the "freshmen 15."

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I think we should have designated areas where you smoke because I don't want to smoke, I don't want to smell it and I shouldn't have to. But if you want to smoke and get cancer, that's your business.

The architecture has so many little details that nobody notices except for me and a few other people. I really appreciate that about VSU.

The shuttle buses should have a set time every day. There are so many drivers but when you go out in the middle of the day, you see three or four shuttle buses sitting there with nobody driving them. You have to wait forever on a shuttle bus especially if you’re going to north campus with the red shuttle bus; you have to wait like, 20 minutes. I find that completely ridiculous.

It's awesome that we get free entrance into sports events just by showing our VSU I.D. I've been able to experience all the sports events VSU has to offer.

I’m tired of seeing people walk around with their pants hanging down. If I wanted to see your underwear, I’d be dating you. I wish we could pass a law that would allow me to tase you if your drawers are showing.

There are a number of English Professors that are amazing teachers and friends.

Erin Ellis ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

Photo by: MCT Campus

A view of Complexo da Mare, a slum neighborhood in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. These neighborhoods are very violent because of wars between heavily armed drug traffickers.

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unny skies, vast beaches, smiling patrons are some of the ideal features of a person’s dream vacation destination. Add a statue of Jesus overlooking the city from the mountain tops and you have arrived in Brazil’s second largest city, Rio de Janeiro.

This coastal town may be the luckiest city in the world because it is soon to host the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games, but tragically Rio has been the host nation of murder and social injustice for many years adding definition to the phrase “ethnic cleansing.”

According to the Overseas Security Advisory Council or OSAC, a subgroup of the U.S Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, Rio de Janeiro has been labeled “critical” in its crime rate for the past 25 years. Danger tends to follow any foreign tourists who are visiting the city. Criminals are not afraid to use deadly force to achieve what they want from others.

Imagine the imminent danger for the loISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

cals as construction continues to make the World Cup and Olympics a success, problems persist that must be addressed immediately.

Rio’s major problems in the city as it get ready for the events in the coming years are gangs, corruption, poverty and power.

Nearly all of these dilemmas can be traced to favelas, or slums that surround Rio’s hilltops and are home to millions of residence. There are over 100 favelas and most are ruled by tightly organized drug traffickers and the gangs they employ.

These slums are important because they overcast the rich, upper class coast and downtown areas that will be central to hosting two of the world’s largest international events.

These gangs terrorize the residence in these lowly areas and systematically rob, torture and kill whoever decides to oppose their occupation in the areas.

How can you ensure the safety of athletes, when they can see murder and destruction from 41

by Andrew Downie, one resident describes the their hotel windows?

To combat the problems inside the favelas, changes since the favela has been occupied.

"I've been here 43 years, and I've never the local government in Rio has created a a speseen it as good as it is now," says resident Eunice cial task force to handle the chaos in the poor Malta. "Before it was not life, I would stand here neighborhoods and “pacify” the violence in and a gang would come by shooting at everything preparation for the upcoming events that will that moved. Now my kids come have the city in the world’s spotand go as they please." light.

Sounds like a happy ending The Battalion of Special to gruesome tale, but not so fast.

Police Operations, also known as BOPE have deployed pacification In some areas that have not been efforts to ride the areas of the reclaimed by BOPE, gangs are bedrug lords and the terror they coming stronger by banding tospread. Since 2009, BOPE has gether in order to fight back with successfully taken over 20 faveferocity toward the special ops las, plan to overtake 20 more group. and are looking to have the rest Militias, gangs comprised of the favelas pacified before the current and former police, fire2016 Olympics according to a remen, soldiers and security guards cent article in the Rio Times are taking over where the drug newspaper. traffickers have left resulting in BOPE has been active in more deaths of innocent civilians. driving out criminals who been Poder Paralelo or “Parallel in the slums and are responsible Power,” is a term used to describe for numerous arrest with the areas that are neglected by the hopes of keeping the violence Brazilian government and are outdown or eradicating it all toside the protections of the legal gether. justice system. These areas atop The team announces the hills, not reclaimed by BOPE, which favelas they are coming to where lawlessness continues. beforehand to intimidate drug Tim Lopes, a renowned jourtraffickers, but in essence, this nalist for his investigative reports gives the gangs ample amount of in Rio was brutally beaten, stuffed time to pack up their operations in a trunk, tied to a tree, had limbs and leave or cease the violence severed, and was then set on fire, Photo by: MCT Campus for the time being.

Rio de Janeiro's policemen take cover and all while alive in one of the areas answer fire after being attacked by drug known for its parallel power in Rio Large drug trafficking dealer. in 2002. gangs such as the Red Command Some gangs and militias have bribed cor(Rio’s largest and most deadliest) and Amigos dos Amigos (“Friends of Friends”) have been pacified. rupted police officers to continue to deal drugs and slaughter mass amounts of people.

In 2012, the murder rate dramatically declined to 10.9% only reporting 1,784 murders. An BOPE themselves have been indicated in 8.3% decrease from 2011 when in only five extrajudicial killings of people by the organizamonths, the city saw 1,945 homicides according tion Human Rights Watch. to an article on insightcrime.org.

Congressman Marcelo Freixo started an While gangs are silenced, BOPE will also effort to end corruption in both law enforcement and government. According to BBC News, his efsupport government efforts to get much needed forts led to the creation of the 2010 film, “Tropa programs and health clinics into the areas that de Elite 2” which identified ex law enforcement were once impenetrable by police.

In a TIME Magazine article written in 2011 officials who are now in militias.

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ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

sons rate in Rio has nearly tripled just as fast.

These militias run services such as gas, And as long as the murder rates are low, water and alternative transport in slums, as well the government will not provide answers to the as charging protection money and ruling with viquestion of why are so many people missing? olence and fear.

To add insult to injury, favelas that are Freixo also followed a long money trail connectclosest to the downtown Rio ing a local government official to collusion with areas, a sense of “urban recriminal organizations and newal” is beginning. In the resulted in 225 convictions. movie, the government is forcBecause of his efing families out of their homes forts, Congressmen Freixo and demolishing their homes at has been exiled to an undisa rapid rate in order to cash in closed location in Europe by on the new and “safe” real esthe group Amnesty United tate. since a $230,000 price was Some families are fighting placed on his life. for their right to stay, but many With all of these violent others have been forced to move killings and intimidation other areas of Rio or to other techniques still occurring favelas that are not occupied (now by current and ex law and unsafe to be in because of enforcement), how could the gang presence. the murder rate decrease so Pushing these people into inrapidly? secure areas and squalor once A recent HBO docuagain is not right ethically in my mentary offered to share a eyes and can cause more innosurprising theory. cent people to be caught in the In the documentary, line of fire.

Witness: Rio, photojournalChrist the Redeemer, a 100 ist Enos Hoagland tries to foot tall monument dedicated to answer this very question.

Jesus of Nazareth overlooking Since the murder the city can only provide a symrate has went down, a crime bolic gesture of peace to the scene investigation task people of Rio de Janeiro. Everyforce has been enacted to one else has to do their part to follow up on every homicide make it happen. in the city and compare When you think of genocide “ Christ the Redeemer, a 100 foot their findings to the murand ethnic cleansing of disender rate that had been retall monument dedicated to Jesus franchised communities, many ported. Yet before they can think of Kosovo in the 1990’s, of Nazareth overlooking the city make it to crime scenes in but more recently, Joseph Kony can only provide a symbolic gesthe favelas, bodies have disand Muammar Gaddafi. For the ture of peace to the people of Rio sake and unity in which the 2014 appeared from crime de Janeiro. Everyone else has to scenes.

World Cup and 2016 Olympics do their part to make it happen.

The documentary represent, let us not add the peo” suggests that in order to ple of beautiful Rio de Janeiro keep the murder rate down, police are removing because of gangs, greed and power. bodies from crime scenes in order to keep the murder rate in Rio in decline to the public.

So even though the murder rate has sharply declined in the last year, the missing perISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

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Interview Postmen with

In an interview I did this past weekend I met with the newly formed band Postmen. I found the two gentlemen to be quite well - educated, but also witty and humorous bringing a strong personality to such a newly formed group. Led by vocalist/guitarist Jake Post and Micah Leon who both attend Valdosta State, you may know these two from the fraternity Pi Kappa Phi, but today I had a one on one conversation about their one true love, playing music. The style I found to be quite different, and their personality the band seems to bring to the table will is something that will definitely draw people’s attention, while also bringing something new to the table.

How long have you guys been playing together?

Why hip hop?

“We’ve just started playing shows for about three months, but we’ve been planning it since about I’d say April of 2012, but I’ve been on stage since I was fifteen” (Post)

“People love hip hops songs when they are played acoustically, it really gets the crowd going, and everyone could sing along. I mean that’s what we really want is for people to sing along.” (Post)

Where have you guys performed so far?

“We really have just gotten our name at their by playing at a few parties, and then we got a gig at Flip Flops. It was really awesome a lot of our friends came out to support us. It got a little crazy, but that’s really what we were looking for. (Leon) What kind of genre would you say your band is?

“We play acoustic, bar songs mostly, a lot of top forties stuff, and even a little hip.” Post also later said, “if you like pop you will like us.” (Post)

What’s the Main Purpose for the Postmen?

“Well we want to just have fun, and play music, and also we want to look cool. You know though it’s more of a hobby for me that sometimes I get paid for it. ” (Post) “We’ve been working really hard and are just looking for some venues to really get our name out their because I feel that we really have something going for this band, and knowing that I think we all are definitely more than capable of putting in the work to get there.” (Leon) Steven Quinn

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ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

From the Closet To The ParTy !

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adies enjoy a night out with the girls and their favorite place to present their fashion sense is at a club. Spring is the ladies’ favorite time to hit the club scene because it gives them a chance to express a chic look in extravagant colors.

The outfit choices vary between showing off long legs in shorts, body dresses, or fitted skirts.

VSU sophomore. Eboni Greene favors a short dress and open toe heels or wedges.

“It gives a lady a chance to show off her vibrant color toes and long legs, shorter fitted dresses and high heels help the shorter ladies’ legs look a little longer ,” Greene said.

“I believe in goung for a flirty look but very simple and comfortable”, said Goss.

Although there are numerous ways to put together an outfit, does color during different seasons matter? Of course! Pastels and white are more for the spring since it’s more of a bright and warm season. “Darker colors attract heat, and the club scene is already compacted along with warm weather, therefore, it’s meant more for the winter and fall,” VSU Junior Richara Goss said.

There are different types of hang out scenes besides the club, however.

Today’s generation we’ve adapted small get-togethers, “kickbacks,” and then there are the Greek house parties. Fashion then takes on a different direction: ladies are always cautious and aware when it comes to a party locaPhoto Credit; Jessica Cooke tion.

ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013

For the kickback scene is more of a comfortable place to wear a nice shirt in pastel, shorts (ripped or denim) with wedges, sneakers, or strapped-sandals. “I believe in going for a more flirty look but very simply and comfortable,” Goss adds.

On the other hand, the club scene is a little different. It resembles a red carpet event; the ladies are pulling their best creations, sequences, prints, and mixed colors.

Since there is a lot of dancing and movement, it’s suggested to sport bottoms that don’t rise (leggings, pants made of a flexible material).

The options of tops vary from a crop top (belly shirts) in suggested colors of white, peach and a bright blue, or tank tops and full shirts in the same suggested colors. “Peach, white, and like a similar turquoise blue are like the most popular pastels,” VSU sophomore Shaquana Brooks said.

Accessories are like the finishing touch, and like the icing on the cake, you never want to overdo it! When attending a kickback, you are in a spacious area where it can be comfortable, so wear simple hoops or dangling earrings with either a fashion bracelet or casual necklace to top it off.

NEVER wear too much dangle, if you’re going to wear long earrings, scrap the necklace and finish it off with a bracelet. Yet the club scene consists of a larger crowd and can possibly get uncomfortable, which means you would want to avoid tangling, breaking, or losing a piece of accessory.

Wear hoops or studs with a necklace that doesn’t extend to or past the chest. “I like to dance, so for the ladies that enjoy vivacious movement should definitely wear accessories that won’t fling while they’re dancing or break easily,” Brooks said. Any typical party night is a girl’s fashion show, so brighten it up and make it beautiful!

Photo Credit; Jessica Cooke

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TO CONTRIBUTE AN ARTICLE EMAIL US AT: ontap@valdosta.edu OR VISIT US ON THE WEB AT: www.ontapvsu.com ISSUE 07 / SPRING 2013 Valdosta State University

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