www.!eFamuanOnline.comWednesday, March 27, 2013

In This Issue:

News ....... 1, 3Calendar .... 2Opinions ..... 5Lifestyles .... 6Sports ......... 6

Mayor’s push for gun control stirs controversy

The abrupt halt of Florida A&M’s search for a university president, called by board of trustees Chairman Solomon Badger III on March 15, has spawned controversy.

Narayan Persaud, who was unanimously voted to serve a second term as faculty senate president on March 19 committee member, seems to have an answer to which way the university should be heading.

Persaud’s priorities for his second term include making sure guidelines are followed, students are prepared for the labor market and ensuring that the university can do for itself as an institution. He is aware of increasing scrutiny surrounding FAMU.

“It is necessary for all, as faculty body, to not be detoured by the negative publicity or reviews but to pull our resources and intellectual capabilities to better serve our students,” said Persaud, a presidential search

committee member.James Muchovej, parliamentarian of the

faculty senate, said one problem the university faces is that “we try to protect individuals in leadership positions.”

“This is an opportunity to get the dirty linen out,” Muchovej said. “If we don’t, SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and 6FKRROV��ZLOO�¿QG�LW�´�

Persaud is an advocate for the need of D� TXDOL¿HG� SUHVLGHQWLDO� FDQGLGDWH�� ,Q� KLV�opinion, Badger’s actions to suspend the search did not follow protocol.

“He did it singularly,” Persaud said. “Appropriate action would be to allow the SURFHVV� WR� FRQWLQXH� XQWLO� WKH� ¿QDO� FDQGLGDWH�review. If there was not a better candidate than (Interim President) Dr. (Larry) Robinson, then the board can make a decision as to what they want to do.”

Bettye Grable, a member of the faculty senate, agrees that all rules and guidelines are

Star Manning

Correspondent

Jamessa Chester

Correspondent

PERSAUD, see page 3

Faculty senate members question BOT chair’s

decision

TALLAHASSEE — Florida Gov. Rick Scott waded into a religious-infused campus controversy Tuesday, asking the state university system chancellor to look into a classroom lesson at Florida Atlantic University in which students were instructed to stomp on sheets of paper that had “Jesus” written on them.

David H. Jackson Jr., chair of Florida $0� 8QLYHUVLW\·V� �)$08�� 'HSDUWPHQW�of History, Political Science, Public Administration, Geography and African American Studies, has been selected as president of the Southern Conference on $IULFDQ�$PHULFDQ�6WXGLHV��,QF���6&$$6,��for 2013-2014.

6($77/(� �$3�� ³� 6LQFH� $PDQGD�Knox was acquitted of murder in Italy, she has tried to return to the life she knew before becoming an international media sensation.%XW�KHU�HIIRUW�WR�NHHS�D�ORZ�SURÀOH�DV�

a college student in her hometown of Seattle was upended Tuesday, when ,WDO\·V�KLJKHVW�FULPLQDO� FRXUW�RYHUWXUQHG�her acquittal.

026&2:��$3��³�$�WHHQDJHU�DGRSWHG�by an American couple has returned to Russia, claiming that his adoptive family treated him badly and that he lived on the streets of Philadelphia and stole just to survive, Russian state media reported.

FAMU professor appointed president of national organization of

African-American studies

Italian Supreme Court overturns Knox’s acquittal

for the 2007 killing of British student Kercher

Russian youth accuses adoptive American family

of mistreatment

Gov. Scott expressed concern over FAU ‘Jesus

stomping’ incident

News Briefs

“I think that’s right because we need the accreditation, because what would FAMU do without the accreditation?”

“I don’t think it was a good idea until they were able to ½RH�E�RI[�SRI�so that we don’t lose our accreditation.”

“Honestly, it’s kind of a give-and-take because I do want us to keep our accreditation, but at the same time we do need that leadership.”

“I think it wasn’t a good idea because you kind of need a president to lead the school back to the right track.”

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Topic of discussion: Do you think suspending the Presidential Search Committee was a good idea?

Florida lawmakers are currently in session to discuss gun control measures.

Gary Kleck, a criminology professor at Florida State University, hopes they will begin discussion on solving the socioeconomic problems that he feels are the real culprits behind America’s violence problem.

“Serious gun violence is overwhelmingly concentrated among poor people, so poverty has a very close connection with violence,” Kleck said. “Not just gun violence, but non-gun violence. So reducing poverty logically has a link with reducing the crime that’s caused by that poverty.”

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg revealed a $12 million advertisement campaign to persuade lawmakers to support gun control measures earlier this week.

The focus of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns campaign is comprehensive background checks. Bloomberg’s actions were received with mixed emotions.

Bloomberg, a staunch advocate for gun control, has announced his support for Second Amendment rights in the past. However, he also said gun ownership should be regulated so that guns do not enter the hands of criminals or the mentally ill.

Anti-gun control groups have widely denounced his funding of the campaign. 7KH� 1DWLRQDO� 5LÀH� $VVRFLDWLRQ� UDQ�its own campaign against universal EDFNJURXQG�FKHFNV�DQG�YRZHG�WR�¿JKW�this component of gun control because it believes the background checks will lead to universal registration. Supporters of this viewpoint said universal registration could make it HDVLHU�IRU�WKH�JRYHUQPHQW�WR�FRQ¿VFDWH�weapons in the future.

Representatives from other organizations expressed their disapproval as well. Dick Farrell, a member of the Second Amendment Coalition of Florida, said Bloomberg’s move was a little more than bribery.

“I am embarrassed, angered and revolted by the fact that a billionaire can use his money to buy political LQÀXHQFH� IRU� DQ\WKLQJ� LQ� WKLV� FRXQWU\��especially to subvert our civil rights,” WE

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FAMU alumnus opens franchise in Altanta and gives back to the FAMU community.More on page 6.

GUN, see page 3TV, see page 3

CompTEK, an electronics company based out of North Canton, Ohio, has announced the selling of the Clear-Cast TV antenna, a new system allowing for free television channels.

Residents within a 32*** zip code are eligible for the free network broadcasts. The digital antenna will provide access to ABC, NBC, NBC HD, CBS, CBS HD, PBS, FOX and CW.

The Clear-Cast antenna is a slim black box that plugs into almost any television model and scans the surrounding area to locate a signal. It then gives the viewer access to the television channels without satellite, cable or monthly bills.

Clear-Cast costs $98 plus shipping and handling.

Sarah Thornton, a third-year criminal justice student from West Palm Beach, Fla., feels its better to pay a low fee for those channels because they’re necessary and informative.

“They are really the only channels college students need,” Thornton said. “I have had to pay for expensive cable channels where I was only watching four out the hundred-plus

channels I had. So, yes, I think this will be a better idea.”

Providers such as Comcast and DirecTV charge for these particular channels. They usually have a cable box or satellite dish that must be installed, which can give unpredictable service due to many complications. Roughly $80 to $100 a month is spent on hundreds of channels.

Arnold Williams, a third-year information technology student from Jacksonville, Fla., thinks the Clear-Cast TV antenna is a great idea.

“I pay about $90 a month for Comcast, and it’s not worth it,” Williams said. “I’m rarely at home to watch television, but the main reason I have it is for the Internet. My apartment complex doesn’t allow us to KDYH�D� VDWHOOLWH�GLVK��EXW� ,�ZRXOG�GH¿QLWHO\�value saving money any way I can instead of paying Comcast.”

Paying for television service can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when money is tight. But some students have concerns about the quality of service the TV antenna would offer.

“I think it’s a good idea,” said Jasmin Baker, a fourth-year criminal justice student

Courtney Martin

Correspondent

FAMU students excited about free tv

Local supporters of marriage equality make their voices heard in front of the state Capitol. More on page 3.

Jamessa Chester/The Famuan1HZ�<RUN�0D\RU�0LFKDHO�%ORRPEHUJ·V�JXQ�FRQWURO�GHFLVLRQV�KDYH�VSDUNHG�GHEDWH� LQ�Florida.

Announcements Classifieds

WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM @TFamuan2 Calendar WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

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The Relay for Life of FAMU announces that the executive committee application will be available online March 22 for the 2013-2014 committee. Visit www.relay.org/famufl to complete an application. The deadline for all applications is April 5 by 5 p.m.

March 27Voices Poetry group is hosting Poetry in the den at 7 p.m.

There is an interest meeting taking place this for the 2013 Art & Design. Hi. Definition Kid’s Art Gallery. The meeting will take place BL Perry room

200 at 8 p.m. students who are interested in volunteering are welcomed to attend.

March 28Honors Convocation will be held in Lee Hall Auditorium at 10:00 a.m.

March 29The Kappa Iota Chapter of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society will hold its Spring 2013 Induction Ceremony on at 5:00 p.m. in the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication. For additional information, please contact Dr. Veronica Yon at 412-7697 or veronica.yon@famu.edu, or contact Mr. Joseph Etienne at 786-355-5284 or

joe_etienne2009@yahoo.com.

The Color Purple musical will be presented March 29 in the Charles Winter Wood Theatre, Edmonds Stage. Admission: $20 Adult, $15 Senior Citizen, $8 Student/Child, FAMU Student Free admittance with I.D. (May not be suitable for children 10 and younger.)

The 2013 Art & Design.Hi.Definition Kid’s Art Exhibit will be taking place on campus at 8:00 p.m. Student volunteers are welcome. For more information please contact Amir Shabazz at Design.group@gmx.com.

April 1Art & Design. Hi. Definition Kid’s Art Gallery (ADHD) is having its planning meeting in BL Perry room 200 at 8:00 p.m.

Employment 50 New Donors Needed This Week Save a life. Make a Difference New donors can donate life saving plasma and receive $200 compensation in four donations. Student ID receive $10 bonus first two donations. Biomat USA 1950 W. Tennessee St 850-222-0195 Grifolsplasma.com Walk ins welcome Current picture ID, Social Security Number required Email kimberly.walters@grifols.com

5BR / 5BA Home for Rent - Separate Leases Avail beginning FALL 2013. Quick 3-min walk from

campus. Furnished living room with flat-screen TV, modern bathrooms, walk-in closets. Digital cable with HBO, sports package, wi-fi included. $1975 or $395 per person. Separate leases available. Call 850-298-8669

Hello! We are looking for outgoing salesperson who needs extra money! Work on campus. Call 850-687-4138”

Bartenders Wanted!!!$250/day potential. No experience necessary.Training provided age 18+ okay. Call (800)965-6520 ext. 189

If you have an announcement that you

want added to the calendar email famuancalendar.@

gmail.com

All announcement submissions should be no more than 60 characters

“BARRY gave me the opportunity to pursue mygoals and dreams. I wasdrawn to the school’s strongmission and commitment to excellence. Now that I have my own law practice, I am very thankful for everything BARRY has provided me.”

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BARRY LAW:Legal education with a conscience

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ORLANDO, FLORIDAwww.barry.edu/FAMU

1644 - FAMU:Layout 1 3/4/13 3:13 PM Page 1

Gun, from page 1

Tallahassee supporters of marriage equality

gathered at the Capitol on Monday to join a

nationwide rally urging the U.S. Supreme

Court to vote to overturn both Proposition 8

and the Defense of Marriage Act.

“What we were there for and all over the

country was to show that we were in support

and encouraging the Supreme Court of

the United States to do the right thing, the

constitutional thing,” said Ron Bunting,

treasurer of Parents and Friends of Lesbians

and Gays of Tallahassee and longtime

marriage equality activist. “Freedom for

everyone, equally and forward.”

The rally had several speakers who shared

their stories of love and the desire to have

the right of marriage. Protesters waved signs

reading “Light the way to justice” and “Love

is love is love.”

The rally came a day before the U.S.

Supreme Court underwent a hearing to

overturn Proposition 8, the California ballot

referendum that was passed in 2008 to ban

same-sex marriage that was legalized less

than a year before.

One young girl spoke about her experience

growing up with same-sex parents and

recently discovered that she is gay, too.

“I am gay as well,” said Emalee

Schierman, a senior at Leon High School. “I

have heard many negative comments since

I was a kid and knew things in America

needed to change.”

The desire for marriage is strong for many

same-sex couples. Diane Fisher, senior

pastor at Gentle Shepherd Metropolitan

Community Church of Tallahassee, spoke

on her feelings of marriage equality.

“For them to deny the love between two

people, for them to say it’s OK for some

to have this right but not all to have this

right, stands in the face of everything I

know,” Fisher said. “It is a violation of

basic human rights.”

Michette Cole, a fourth-year elementary

education student from Detroit, agrees that

marriage equality is important.

“These are new times, and people

want to be able to express their love and

commitment for and to one another,” Cole

said. “If it wasn’t for religious beliefs,

I think gay marriage would have been

allowed from the beginning, just as it was

for straight people.”

Members, artists and administrators

of the Foster-Tanner Fine Arts Gallery

are presenting the second annual spring

fundraiser, the Trouvaille Art Auction,

on Saturday.

Harris Wiltsher, director of the Foster-

Tanner Fine Arts Gallery, said he is looking

forward to this year’s auction.

“I’m excited about having the opportunity

to be able to do this again for the second

year,” he said. “We are trying to get FAMU

administrators, staff, faculty, students [and

the] surrounding Tallahassee community to

come and experience what we do have and

what we are presenting within the walls of

the Foster-Tanner Arts Gallery.”

Tickets for the live auction are $5 in

advance and $10 at the door. Joseph Kitka, a

professional auctioneer of the Aaron Joseph

& Company, will lead the bids.

The French term Trouvaille means “lucky

¿QG�RU�GLVFRYHU\�´�7KH�LWHPV�XS�IRU�ELG�DUH�artwork from current and former Florida

A&M students and faculty members and

jewelry and works by local, national and

international artists. The prices of the works

range from about $25 to $250.

“I think the work is extraordinary,

and I believe that it will warrant a good

number of people attending the event and

purchasing some of the artwork, if not all of

it,” Wiltsher said.

A portion of the proceeds will go toward

the FAMU Art Scholarship Fund. It helps

current art students purchase art supplies and

supplement tuition fees.

Food, jazz entertainment and a special

UDIÀH�RI�JLIW�EDVNHWV�ZLOO�EH�SURYLGHG�DW�WKH�auction, which will last from 4-7 p.m.

For more details, call 850-599-8755.

Korbin Miles

Correspondent

Farrell said. “The Second Amendment is

no joke. It’s a civil right. This would be the

equivalent of a racist using his billions to force

black people on the back of the bus again.”

Still, others look to the mass shootings

that occurred last year as proof that universal

background checks are necessary. Many of the

shooters in these instances were mentally ill.

Adam Lanza, the man who shot 26

people at Sandy Hook Elementary School,

allegedly suffered from autism.

James Holmes, the man responsible for

the shootings at a movie theater in Aurora,

Colo., reportedly showed signs of mental

issues as well.

Kleck, said background checks have

proven to impact criminal activity.

“People, including me, have done

research on comparisons of states and

cities with different levels of gun control

strictness,” Kleck said. “While most

gun control laws don’t seem to have any

measurable effect on crime, the ones that

do seem to have in common the element

that there’s a background check.”

However, Kleck also said that the mass

shootings that prompted lawmakers

to push for gun control are too rare

and unpredictable to prevent. He said

lawmakers should focus on reducing

the routine violence that occurs most

often in poor inner-city neighborhoods

to effectively combat America’s high

violence rates. To decrease this type of

crime, Kleck said lawmakers would have

WR�¿JKW�RWKHU�VRFLRORJLFDO�LVVXHV�Marion Hammer, former president of

WKH� 1DWLRQDO� 5LÀH� $VVRFLDWLRQ�� DOVR� VDLG�lawmakers are using the wrong ammunition

WR�¿JKW�YLROHQFH��6KH�VDLG�VWULFW�JXQ�FRQWURO�will not reduce violence among criminals but

emphasizing the importance of families will.

“Basically, it goes back to the

home,” Hammer said. “It goes back

to being raised with a mom and dad or

grandparents or people who care. Good

homes raise good children.

Hammer said that attention to the family

is as importnat now as it was when the

nation was founded.

“We do know how to reduce poverty,”

Kleck said. “Poverty would reduce crime,

but it requires a political will to invest in

that. And as long as we lack that will, we

search for these kind of trivial side-issue

ways to reducing violence. We go after

what’s achievable but trivial rather than

what’s hard to achieve but would have

VLJQL¿FDQW�HIIHFWV�´

WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM@TFamuan 3NewsWEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

Jorge Rodriguez-Jimenez/The Famuan/*%7�ULJKWV�VXSSRUWHUV�UDOO\�RQ�)$08·V�FDPSXV�ODVW�\HDU�LQ�VXSSRUW�RI�D�SURWHFWLRQ�UHIHUHQGXP�

Each company in the Altria family is an equal opportunity employer that supports diversity in its workforce.

3K291© 2012 Altria Client Services Inc.

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to be adhered to.

“[Badger] stepped outside of his purview

as chairman of the board of trustees,”

Grable said.

With Badger as chairman of the BOT,

Persaud feels that future presidential

candidates will not be attracted to FAMU.

“He has interrupted [the process],”

Persaud said of the BOT chairman and

the presidential search. “We cannot give

anybody the assurance that the process will

be fair and open.”

To date, Persaud has not had any

communication with Badger or Robinson.

“I do not know what happened to the

candidates,” Persaud said. “I have not

heard when the process will happen again.”

Student Government Association

President Michael Jefferson, who has been

involved with the process, believes this

will be the highlight of discussion at the

upcoming board of trustees meeting April

11.

“Every trustee is entitled to his or her

RSLQLRQ�´� -HIIHUVRQ� VDLG�� ³,� DP� FRQ¿GHQW�that the issue will be resolved.”

from West Palm Beach. “It gives you the

channels that you really need. It allows

those that may not be able to afford

monthly subscriptions to be able to take

advantage of the opportunity.”

Baker said, however, reception would

probably be a downfall for the product.

“There are pros and cons to having this

SURGXFW�´�VKH�VDLG��³%XW�WKH�SURV�GH¿QLWHO\�outweigh the cons.”

PERSAUD, from page 1.

tv, from page 1.

Jamessa Chester/The Famuan7KRVH�RSSRVHG�WR�%ORRPEHUJ·V�GHFLVLRQV�WKLQN�XQLYHUVLDO� EDFNJURXQG� FKHFNV� ZRXOG� PDNH�JXQ�RZQHUV�WRR�YLVLEOH�WR�WKH�JRYHUQPHQW�

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Marriage equality supporters rally at state Capitol

Trouvaille Art Auction

promises µOXFN\¶�¿QGVJordan Kinsey

Correspondent

I started working for Sodexo Inc. in August 2008, but I removed myself from the job about a month ago.

In the past five years, the experience has had its ups and downs. I started working for the food court, moved into Jazzman’s Café, the main dining hall and then to concessions.

My skills included greeting customers while ensuring a positive dining experience each time; managing cash transactions and assisting in daily bank deposits; being lead employee in preparation for concession stands for all campus events, including transporting items throughout campus; acting as chief wait staff for Sodexo’s catering, special events and private university functions; and mastering the art of working among a myriad of Florida A&M students, faculty and staff personality types. I was also the Sodexo experience district award winner in 2011.

As you can see, I have had an amazing time working for this company. The clients have introduced us to more clients. I have built many lifelong relationships with those that I’ve met. But one of the biggest issues I’ve had with my time working for Sodexo was the inconsistencies with members of the management staff. Sodexo prides itself with paying the staff more than Florida’s minimum wage. I’m not sure if you can recall Danny Glover being arrested for a peaceful protest for telling a crowd, “We’re here today to say ‘no more’ to deplorable pay and working conditions.”

The general manager promised new changes, such as an open email

policy, among other things, to help create a friendly work environment. When I was transferred to the concession stand department, I treated it as my own. There was no concrete system for inventory, stocking and cleaning. I took time on my days off to create a system that is still being used today. With the help of non-profit organizations, we turned that department around with four employees. When the management team shifted, I was pulled from concessions and placed in Jazzman’s. It now operates with about 50 employees. Can you say money wasted?

The air conditioner unit is now up to code in the main dining hall, but that was not the only issue. There is only enough staff to operate each regular shift. This is not including those that call out for various reasons. The hot wells where the main entrée is served gets to about 100 degrees. The staff members who work behind the line get little-to-no breaks. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning over the hamburger line do not work, which leaves the heat in the cooks’ personal spaces.

It was a great journey and time we had with Sodexo. But I do believe that it is time for a new company to take over and treat its staff with respect and responsibility. Sodexo’s contract is set to end on June 30. The university is negotiating with another company called Aramark Higher Education.

Sodexo, may your next endeavors be great and as awesome as you want it to be. So long …

As a journalism student at Florida A&M, I know all too well the kaleidoscopic meanings of various words throughout the English dictionary. I’ve been trained by the best to use the most sophisticated and intricate words to ensure that I show the epitome of my five-star educational experience.

But when I think of a description that can lucently describe the culture of the various organizations both Greek and non-Greek within this great institution of higher learning, only one word comes

to mind: careless. Though simple, the word still carries significance in more ways than one.

For far too long, FAMU has allowed its reputation to become tarnished by faculty and students who seem uninterested in preserving the image of this great institution.

We’ve allowed our careless actions to mold our once-superior status throughout the world as one of the best institutions of higher learning. It’s time we fade away the current shame and disappointment we create

as a unit and get back on the track to greatness. As students, our jobs are to get the best education that we can and

become leaders in our chosen career fields. It seems as though we’ve become fearful of doing the right thing and

instead give way to implementing fear into others. I’m often reminded of a recently written article regarding a student

who was adamant about giving her personal testament of the physical and psychological hazing she experienced as a member of the FAMU Gospel Choir. After the article was published, she claims she endured numerous harassment incidents from members of the choir and eventually badgered the author and publisher with threats of legal action if it wasn’t removed.

Though she is partially to blame for allowing herself to become a victim of hazing, the ultimate responsibility lies with our culture for allowing people to haze others.

It is our obligation to report and object to any form of activity that isn’t supporting the mantra of our institution. If we, as we should be, are growing tired of the constant ridicule that we receive from the public on an almost weekly basis, then let us stand up for what’s right and vow to stop being careless. Let us be more careful in representing our institution in the best way possible.

Editor-in-ChiEf:thefamuaneic@gmail.com

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fax

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THE F U

The Famuan, an award-winning newspaper, is published

Monday, Wednesday and Friday during the fall and spring

semesters. Look for us online on Mondays and Fridays. The opinions on this page do not

reflect the administration, faculty or staff of the university. The Famuan is funded partially by activities and services fees.

Every Florida A&M University student is invited to join the staff of The Famuan. Staff writers and photographers receive assignments from the

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The culture of our organizations

rosCoE thoMpson

StAff Writer

WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM@TFamuan 5OpinionsWEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

I wish more of our artists could switch their perceptions, either tales of misfortune,

or their numerous blessings. Ones that do distinguish them, but can mold an

obsession, in kids with nothing left to lose, but their sense of direction … In a land

where life spans, rarely breach adolescence. The same place where worst cases will likely teach them the lessons, it is important that their courses … do lead to

progression … and are the sources of the answers and not of lingering questions ...

I find it funny how women need to reflect them, so insecure with reflections, emulating the major for recognition,

acceptance … less invested in labor once close enough to perfection horseshoes and hand grenades with fame comes

a third exception, to the rule, quite a ways from that 40 acres and mule, the truest mark of success when oppressors neighbor to you, when that woman you once obsessed will

await to cater to you, when those diamonds across your neck in excess can taper a view … of what’s important. For fame and fortune … the retros will come to mind when asked of the river Jordan, the ghettos have been aligned to feed the children of wardens. A code of “ethics” conveyed in music keeping accordance … with vicious cycles ... petty idols

preach indulgence, aiding in the in-do-lence glorifying what’s haunting the mother needing condolence, how are you not

to be blame when your fame constructed the motive, despite your lack of street living you profited off promoting … the vicious cycles. Our plight entitles? Since when did struggle

justify that we kill for survival, since when did wilderness of the world diminish the Bible, embracing more of our errors

but fear the feel of the trials … the vicious cycle.

Four female phenoms who continue to inspire

It’s not simple to discuss one woman I admire, let alone one I strive to be like. There are so many phenomenal women who have tapped into their purposes and pushed beyond the norm that it’s impossible to pinpoint just one.

I’m assuming it would be cliché to say my mom. Most girls look up to their mothers. So striving to be like the phenomenal woman Maya Angelou speaks of, I’m going to stray from the typical answer. My

inner woman is comprised of four women I want to be like when I make it into the entertainment industry: Oprah Winfrey, Whitney Houston, Phylicia Rashad and Keke Palmer.

Winfrey’s work ethic, drive and determination speak volumes through her success, and that alone is something to strive for. She motivates me to delve into my endeavors and work hard at doing them because if I don’t, they’ll never come to fruition. She made me realize my God-given talents are mine, not only to glorify him but to share with the world.

Houston was a true testament of sharing her God-given gift. I want her boldness, humility and lack of care about what people think. Being called “the voice” by Winfrey is a huge honor in itself, but throughout her successful but tumultuous career, she remained humble. Even when the media beat her up, she still walked around in her stride with class and her head held high. I admire her feistiness and will to fight back.

Rashad is another woman who doesn’t look for the world’s approval, especially when it comes to her beauty. I admire her for being a lady and never degrading herself. This woman knows how to be sexy and maintain a level of class. Women like her are true role models to young people, and she gives me hope that I can still be successful without degrading myself.

Palmer, although she is younger than I, gives me something to look forward to. She’s young, successful, beautiful and talented. She has a mind of her own and doesn’t participate in the “shock factor” that many stars, who lack talent, are known to do to grasp the world’s attention. She allows her talent to speak for itself and doesn’t seem to second-guess herself.

These four women are the “it factor,” in my opinion. They’re strong, beautiful and courageous. If I can pattern some of my ways after them, then I know I am destined for success.

THE VICIOUS CYCLE OF HIP-HOP ARTISTS

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste” is a phrase many people use. However, so many students continue to waste their education.

We have the opportunity to obtain a college degree when so many others aren’t as fortunate, so why are some of us refusing to take advantage? Students go to class, don’t do the work and, at the end of the semester, tell their family and friends that their teacher gave them an F. Isn’t that what you earned?

The teacher didn’t pick a random grade and hand it to you. You, the student, received a grade that reflected your performance.

According to Bright Hub, an online community of experts, 35 percent of students who enter college will end up dropping out during their first year. It seems that students aren’t taking education seriously. I get it, school is hard and can be a bit overwhelming. But we have to do better. A lot of students go to class, cheat on tests and are satisfied with a C as the outcome.

Some students are more concerned about “turning up” and looking good rather than putting any energy into passing a test. Let us not forget that in the 1950s nine African-American students entered Little Rock Central High School to better their education at an all-white school and were tormented every day. They had to fight for their education so that we could go to school without having to deal with those struggles.

It’s time to step up because this trend is getting old.

sharELL wiLLiaMs

StAff Writer

Are students wastingtheir education?aLExis fraziEr

StAff Writer

Farewell, Sodexo, thank you for the memories

- traVis robErts

trEnton pinson

CorreSpondent

Careless:

Tell us what you think on Twitter! @TFamuan

A former member of Florida A&M’s 1978 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship football team shows how hard work, dedication and perseverance can pay off.

Charles King, who graduated in 1981 with a degree in electrical engineering, recently opened a new store under The Grounds Guys franchise in Atlanta. With more than 100 locations, a franchise with The Grounds Guys typically covers a territory with a population of 150,000 people.

King owns the only franchise of The Grounds Guys in Atlanta. But although it is already open for business, the grand opening isn’t until August, which is a month dedicated to black small business owners

After being laid off four times, King decided it was time for a change. He picked up what he referred to as a “hustle” and went on to pursue his passion: landscaping.

King started off slowly by occasionally mowing his neighbors’ lawns for extra cash. It wasn’t until he sat down to watch TV one night that he realized his dream could become a reality.

King was watching “Undercover Boss” on CBS when The Dwyer Group, the parent company of The Grounds Guys, caught his attention.

According to King, the beliefs and values of The Grounds Guys is “similar to that of Chick-fil-A in that their customer service draws you in. They have a 24-hour care center.”

After six months, with work and determination, King was able to open the franchise on March 5.

He attributes his work ethic and mindset to succeed to the lessons he learned at FAMU as both a student and an athlete.

“It was a chore,” King admitted. “I had to persevere.”As a student-athlete, King said slacking off was not an option.

And with the help of professors and coaches, he was able to graduate in the standard amount of time – four years.

Outside of his business, King is an active member of the Metro-Atlanta Chapter of the FAMU National Alumni Association, where he serves as vice president. He focuses much of his time selling the idea of attending college, to high school students.

“Despite the clouds over the university, if you were to cut me open, my heart will always bleed orange and green,” King said. “I love my university. I love my alma mater.”

King spoke volumes of his time as an athlete at FAMU. Giving credit to his former coaches for pushing he and his teammates to be the best players possible, he said athletics taught him a great deal.

In King’s opinion, the ability to maintain a passing GPA on

top of traveling, practices, games, classwork and a social life shows the dedication of student-athletes.

“Athletes are very talented people,” King said. “I don’t care what anybody says.”

King is passing many of the lessons he acquired at FAMU on to the high school students he travels with. He recalled two professors, Aderline Evans and George Clarke, who taught him two different but valuable lessons that he still utilizes.

“Professor Evans would always say, ‘Open your mouth,’ ” King recalled. That meant two things, King said: In order to be successful, you need to be able to articulate, and you need to be able to articulate effectively.

On the other hand, Clarke taught King how to write an effective to-do list and stick with it.

While King would love for each of his mentees to attend FAMU, his main goal is to introduce the idea of college to the students.

King stresses the importance of education and how a degree can give one person an edge over another.

Speaking highly about the culture of FAMU, King said that upon graduation, he never felt that he had to fear anybody.

“With the lessons professors and your peers teach you, when you step out of FAMU and into the real world, you will be ready for anything,” King said. “FAM[U] prepares you in that way.”

He tells the students “when you get an education, you can go toe-to-toe with anybody.”

The tools King acquired as a FAMU student made his transition from corporate America relatively easy, he said.

“Being your own boss is tough,” King said. “Rewarding but tough.”

In addition to landscaping, King also has a passion for giving back. He rewards students who do well in school with money out of his own pocket.

“I always tell my kids, ‘If you ever want to make As, you have to hang out with people who make As,’ ” King said.

Similar to his Rattler pride, King’s hard work does not go unnoticed. The Grounds Guys President Ron Madera has no doubt King will be successful.

Madera explained The Grounds Guys focuses a lot on the compassionate culture of the company and communication with its customers.

People will just love him,” Madera said of King.King’s desire to give back to the Atlanta community, as well

as doing his “civil duty” as an alumnus of FAMU, is a trait that Madera admires.

Brian Kendall, a Tallahassee franchisee of The Grounds Guys, was unaware of King’s story, but after learning about King’s desire to help others, Kendall made a strong connection

to the “culture of care” The Grounds Guys adheres to. Kendall said the franchise always puts the client first, “no matter what happens.”

King is constantly putting others first. He wants to ensure that the upcoming generation is well prepared for life after high school. He wants the next generation to go to college and be great.

“If your tools aren’t sharp, you’re not going to go very far,” King said.

Everything King does for the community and the university is voluntary, he said. Students and parents often ask how they

can repay him.Modestly, King explained that there is only one way his

mentees and their families can pay him back: By doing what he is doing – giving back.

“It’s not about me at all,” he said. “It’s about you guys. I love doing it.”

Morgan Culler

SportS Editor

WWW.THEFAMUANONLINE.COM6 Sports/Lifestyles WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2013

Rattler continues to strike

ALUM

GIVES

BACK

“The Color Purple” has entertained audiences for more than 30 years, and now Florida A&M will welcome audiences to its performance of the play based off of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Luther Wells, the play’s director, said he found it imperative to display “The Color Purple” for the student body.

“The play was recently released last year for people to do,” Wells said. “And our name is the Essential Theatre, so we felt that it was essential for our theater to be the first in the Tallahassee community to do ‘The Color Purple.’ ”

Many students are excited that the play has come to FAMU. Vallery Agenor, a senior computer information systems student from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., has high expectations for it.

“I’ve been waiting to see it since I first heard FAMU was putting it on, and I’m expecting a great performance from the cast,” Agenor said.

Jamoyia Taylor, a junior physical therapy student from Quincy, Fla., shared a similar reaction. According to Taylor, the Essential Theatre has a great track record with shows, and she feels cast will not disappoint with “The Color Purple.”

“I know FAMU’s Essential Theatre will do the play justice,” Taylor said. “I expect nothing less than the best because every showing at the theater I’ve been to has been great.”

The student actors are one element of bringing play to life. The actors attend rehearsals, which began in January, Monday through Friday from 6:30-10 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. One actor, Kevin Parks, a senior theater student from Eustis, Fla., spoke fondly of his experience thus far.

“I am a theatre major, and this is something I love to do,” Parks said. “From the time I spend on the play, it shows me that love conquers all.”

Wells spoke highly of the cast that comprises students, alumni and community members.

“We have a talented group of students who are working hard,” he said. “We also have people from the community who are in the play.”

The play, which stays true to the book and features some elements from the 1985 movie, adds another element with the use of songs and dance to enhance the story. Along with enjoyment of the songs and the choreography, Wells hopes the audience receives a positive message about FAMU and its students.

“I hope people walk away from it and see that quality work does come from the Hill,” he said. “And when they come to see plays at the

Essential Theatre, they can always expect to receive quality work.”

“The Color Purple” will be presented Friday through Sunday and again April 5-7. Admission for adults is $20, $15 for senior citizens, $8 for children and non-FAMU students and free for FAMU students with valid ID.

Opening night attendees are encouraged to dress formally for the Essential Theatre’s first red carpet affair. The festivities, which will begin at 7 p.m., will include a red runner,

flashing cameras, step and repeat and reporters. Tickets will be on sale through Thursday for

the March performances and Monday through April 5 for the remaining performances from noon to 5:30 p.m. and again one hour prior to each curtain.

Tickets must be purchased in person. The box office is located in the lobby of Tucker Hall. Tickets may be purchased with cash and checks only.“

Krystal sMith CorrESpondEnt

Essential Theatre to present“Performances are Friday at 8

p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Sports Editor Morgan Culler stands with Charles King in the Al Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center.

Former football player hits the turf from another angle

‘The Color Purple’beginning Friday

Syretta Tucker/The FamuanThe banner for “The Color Purple” displayed outside of Charles Winter Wood Theatre.

@TFamuan