Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney gestures to supporters during his election night rally, Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, in Boston. AP Photo/David Goldman, AP Photo/Julie Jacobson. (Top) President-Elect Barack Obama and Family AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

www.TheFamuanOnline.com VOL. 125 ISSUE 13Wednesday, November 7, 2012

FourstepsForward

November 9

Florida A&M University will host its annual Homecoming Convocation Friday at 10:10 a.m. in Gaither Gymnasium. This year’s keynote speaker is FAMU alumna, performer, writer, producer and director T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh. The general public is invited to attend.

The Rattler Booster club will hold it’s Homecoming Friday Night Strike. The event starts at 6 p.m. outside of Bragg Stadium closestet to Perry Street.

November 10

The Homecoming parade is scheduled for Saturday and will begin at 8 a.m. It will travel south on Macomb Street and turn east onto West Tennessee Street. The parade will then turn south onto Duval Street and continue south to Pensacola Street. At Pensacola Street, the parade will travel west to the parking lot of the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center where it will disembark.

The Rattler Football Team will take on the Eagles of North Carolina Central University at 3 p.m. on Saturday in Bragg Memorial Stadium. Tickets are $40 and $45. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. For more information, call (850) 599-3868.

Announcements

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Submission Guidelines Employment

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

St. Eugene Catholic Chapel and Student Center“Anchored on the word of God, The Eucharist, andthe guidance of the Holy Spirit”

SUNDAY SCHOOLN/A

FIRSTSERVICE

Sunday(Spanish)9 a.m.

SECONDSERVICE

Sunday(English)11 a.m.

PRAYERMEETING(Spanish Mass)Sun. 9 a.m.(English Mass)Tues, Wed. & Thurs. Noon

BIBLESTUDY

N/A

Tuesday7 p.m.

CO

LLE-

GIA

TE

SHU

TTLE

YES

YES

YES

ADDRESS

N/A

Sunday11 a.m.

N/A EverydayNoon N

OYE

S

YES

YES

YES

Bishop Joseph L. Brown and Dr. Edna S. Brown 2640 Old Bainbridge Road (850) 212-0007

Jacob Chapel Baptist Church

New Hope International Outreach Ministries“An apostolic ministry helping others pursue excellence in Christ”

Sunday11 a.m.

Sunday10:30 a.m.

Thursday 6:15 p.m.

Tuesday7:30 p.m.

NO

NO

YES

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Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons, Sr. 2333 Lake Bradford Road (850) 574-3150

Bishop John E. Baker3426 Crawfordville Rd.(850) 219-9950www.newhopeiom.com

Sunday9:45 a.m.

Sunday9 a.m.

Sunday7:30 a.m.

Friday7:30 p.m.

Thursday6:45 p.m.

Monday6:30 p.m.Wednesday7 p.m.Saturday 6 p.m.

Religion Directory

Rev. Ejiofor Ugwu701 Gamle St(850) 222-6482www.sainteugenechapel.org

WAL

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University Ministires International “The church where the power of God is manifested, the Glory of God is revealed, and Jesus is Lord!”

Classifieds

Services BOATWRIGHT BAIL BONDS, INC.“This Rattler has Your Back”Specializing in Student BondsBonds for all OffensesMobile Bonding Services AvailableSpeak to me directly 24 hours/7 days a Week 850-559-2601

CALENDARWdnesday, November 7, 2012 famuancalendar@gmail.com2

“I actually thought Romney would win because I was born a Republican,” McCain said. “I thought Romney would really win Florida. I thought his views with foreign policies in China were more accurate than what Obama promised.”

Corey Shirley, a senior finance student at FSU, said he was glad he could use the same address from four years ago.

“It is always an accomplisment to vote, and it only took 10 minutes,” Shirley said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has been re-elected to a second term, defeating Republican Mitt Romney in a hard-fought race in which the economy was the dominant issue.

Voters decided to give Obama another four years of stewardship over an econ-omy that is slowly recovering from the recession.

Obama captured battleground states including Ohio, Iowa and Colorado on his

way to the 270 electoral votes he needed.Romney unsuccessfully campaigned on

the theme that his business background gave him the experience needed to guide the nation out of tough economic times.

Obama will again be dealing with a divided Congress. Democrats maintained control of the Senate and Republicans likely will again control the House. Among the most pressing matters is the so-called fiscal cliff of tax hikes and spending cuts scheduled to hit in January. Economists have warned that if they aren’t averted, the nation could face another recession.

about the speaker. I think she will say some things that will help FAMU to prepare for another 125 years.”

Saunders said Keymáh will probably discuss how important the university has been to thousands of students and how each person connected to FAMU can work to ensure its continued existence.

This year’s homecoming theme is “Ignite the Strike: Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence with Care.”

In honor of the university’s 125th anniversary, Director of Dance

Studies Elgie Gaynell Sherrod created a line dance, the 1-2-5 Rattler Strut, which will be performed at the convocation by Sherrod and a group of about 45 students, including dancers, cheerleaders and the softball team.

Lisa Gault, a second-year English education student, said this convocation will be better than prior convocations. Gault said FAMU has such distinguished alumni coming to speak. She said it will be livelier and students will pay more attention.

ALUMNA

VICTORY

MIKE HAMMERAssOCIATed PRess

Obama wins second term

Homecoming 2012

Students celebrate victoryFrom the cheers to the dancing of some of the

Democratic students on election night. One thing was for certain- many students left the Hansel E. Tookes Sr. Recreation Center with a smile on their face.

Close to 1,000 students packed the recreation center with dancing and live music. Students had on their “Just vote You” T-Shirts that were handed out at the comedy show other students were found with their Obama stickers worn on their outfits.

CNN announced at 11:40 p.m. that President Barack Obama is projected to be re-elected. Students were taking pictures of this historic day. Others held hands and cried with happiness as they joined their friends to capture the event.

Some students decided to vote early and avoid waiting in long lines on Election Day.

O’Shea Boyce, a senior psychology student from Deltona, Fla., recalls early voting on Oct. 27.

“I did early voting that Saturday morning with my family,” Boyce said. “I was the first person to vote at my precinct in the Deltona, Fla.”

Boyce explained how proud she felt arriving at the precinct at 6:15 a.m. and being the first person to vote in the Deltona community.

Many Florida A&M students were elated about this presidential election because this was an opportunity for them to voice their opinions.

Boyce explained that it’s important for students to vote because the president will have a big impact on their future.

“A lot of us can’t afford college,” said Reginald Johnson,

a junior criminal justice student from Jacksonville. “Finding jobs isn’t easy, and it is very important to pick the right president. This will determine our future and finding future jobs.”

This was Johnson’s first time voting for a presidential candidate and he said “the memory makes me feel like I am somebody in this country.”

“It’s important for FAMU students to vote because if you want to see change, you have to voice your opinion, “Johnson said. “We are the future for America.”

Boyce said she could relate more to Obama. “He started from the bottom and had to struggle,” Boyce

said. “He knows what it feels like to pay back student loans and fight to get to the top.’’

On the other hand, Thomas McCain, a senior advertising student at Florida State University, said he was very disappointed

She played a mother, a student and a dancer on TV. On Friday, T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh will take on the role of keynote speaker at the Homecoming

Convocation. A Florida A&M alumna, Keymáh will

address students, faculty, staff and administrators when the convocation convenes at 10:10 a.m. Friday in Gaither Gymnasium.

Keymáh is an author, director, speaker, performer, writer and producer. She has played roles in “That’s So Raven” and “Cosby.” Keymáh was also an original cast member of “In Living Color.”

Luther Wells, associate director of theatre and friend of Keymáh, said she

was a business student before changing her major to theatre.

Wells describes Keymáh as down-to-earth and giving, especially of her time and resources. He said Keymáh has given more than $100,000 to FAMU by establishing a scholarship in her name. The scholarship was endowed last year and will be awarded to students for the first time next year.

“One of Keymáh’s most recent accomplishments would include her being honored in the HBCU Hall of Fame

during the Atlanta Classic weekend,” Wells said.

Students were very appreciative of her at that time, Wells said.

The FAMU administration has made many preparations for this convocation and Keymáh’s arrival.

“We have been working tirelessly to plan activities to celebrate the 125th anniversary,” said Sharon Saunders, FAMU’s chief communications officer. “We are e x c i t e d

With the aftermath of last November’s unfortunate event still looming over Famuans’ heads, there is concern about how this year’s homecoming events will be affected.

The cancellation of the Greek step show has created a buzz, and many wonder if the new intake rules have something to do with it. According to the new membership intake rules that began in September, student organizations were not allowed to hold meetings until Sept. 17 and must meet certain academic requirements. These new rules have put a hold on new member intakes.

There are a large amount of student organizations that perform in the homecoming

events. An event that is affected largely by student organization participation is the Homecoming Fashion Show. Lateisha Harris, a junior criminal justice student from Miami and fan of the annual show, expressed her concern.

“The Homecoming Fashion Show has always been my favorite event,” Harris said. “With everything going on, I hope it’s just as good this year, especially because I know they can’t use new models.”

New intake rules bar freshmen from joining any student organization until they have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours with a 2.5 GPA and 30 hours of community service. Elouinia Exantus, a Homecoming Fashion Show chair and member of Images

New rules, new facesHow he did it

Famous alumna to “ignite the strike”

Delmarshae Walker

Correspondent

rabia muhammeD

Correspondent

shala Nettles

Correspondent

Spencer Perry/The FamuanStudent supporters rejoice in the Hansel E. Tookes Recreation Center after the announcement of President Obama winning another term in office.

See VICTORY p. 2

See PLANNING p. 4

See ALUMNA p. 2

NEWS

df

Wednesday, November 7, 2012 famuannews@gmail.com3Homecoming 2012

Eddie Saintil is an American citizen from Miami who feels accomplished this morning after last night’s election because he had the opportunity to vote. In the midst of an election he felt enthusiastic about casting his vote but something was stopping him. He was not registered in Leon County and did not have his voter identification card in his possession.

Saintil gave up on the hope of voting until one person came and changed everything.

“I felt left out at first because I had no chance but Mike (Stafford) here said there’s always a way.” Saintil said.

Michael Stafford is a campaign volunteer in Tallahassee who happened to be active in Saintil’s neighborhood. As Stafford was going door-to-door making sure the neighborhood all had the opportunity to vote, he stopped by Saintil’s apartment. Stafford explained that although an individual may be registered in another county, he or she may vote using their current address in Leon County. Stafford volunteered his time and resources to make sure that Saintil could cast his ballot.

There was no reason Saintil’s should not vote, especially because Stafford was offering to provide transportation. With Stafford driving, Saintil made it to his voting precinct and he was able to cast his ballot. Saintil said he could not help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment after exercising his right.

Absentee ballots have been popular this election especially since supervisor of elections of Leon County Ion Sancho extended early voting until Monday. This comes from Sancho’s strong belief in the importance of voting.

“The fate of the nation and our community will be determined in the upcoming fall elections,” Sancho said in a public service announcement.

When asked what motivates him to help out in such a way, Stafford responded that it comes from a natural inner drive to help out others. According to Stafford, emotions such as empathy are coded in our biology.

“I believe that people are very much social animals.” Stafford said.

Individuals like Stafford together with Ion Sancho’s aggressive campaign to encourage the community to vote gives off a sense of togetherness that falls upon the city in the thought that no voter was left behind in this year’s election.

No voter left behind

Usually, students without transportation can board the Rattler Express to shop at off-campus locations such as Target, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, Publix and Governor Square Mall.

However, this semester, students will miss out on the opportunity to take advantage of the Rattler Express because of an audit filed by the Audit and Compliance Office on April 23.

“I am upset because I feel as though the Rattler Express was one program that reached a majority of students,” said Modjinah Lavache, a sophomore broadcast journalism student and a coordinator of the program. “It was made for students to use and since someone was not responsible with the funds, it was misused and abused.”

Section 1009.24(10)(b) of the Florida Statutes states, “The student activity and service fees shall be expended for lawful purposes to benefit the student body in general.”

According to section 903.4 of the Student Body Statues, the Board of Trustees approved the allocation of $450,000 at the Board meeting on Feb. 9, 2009 for the Activities and Service funds to cover the lease costs of two buses for Student Government Association recruitment, student government, and “general student use.”

In October of 2009, the university established an agreement for the leasing of two 56-seat charter buses. The funds were

supposed to be removed from an account each June 30. The Board then approved $489,307 on December 2011, once again, to allocate the lease of the two buses.

“The idea of the charter buses came up in the audit,” said Stanley Hardy, senior political science student and a senior senator in SGA. “After what happened in the audit, the administration feels as though they’re not going to deal with the buses unless it’s university reasons.”

Marvin Green, director of student activities, said he isn’t knowledgeable on why the Rattler Express isn’t being offered to students to utilize it for off campus locations.

The audit, which was addressed to administrative staff in the Office of Student activities, clearly hints that Greene knew exactly what happened to the Rattler Express being restricted to the student body for general use.

The Rattler Express wasn’t the only program, which was stopped this semester, the football packages for students to travel to away games was also reported in the audit. The 42nd Student Senate is looking into the policies and regulates on how the Rattler Express can be used.

Marquise McMiller, a junior political science student and a junior senator in SGA, started the program in fall 2011 to take students to locations in Tallahassee because of limited transportation.

“We are working on alleviating these issues because student transportation is very important to student life,” McMiller said.

Anthony Mundle

Staff Writer

Students will miss the bus

LaGretta Johnson/The FamuanModeling troupe members strut their stuff during a Homecoming Fashion Show practice.

Erickson Joseph/The FamuanEddie Saintil checks in to vote Tuesday. He nearly missed the opportuinty

to do so before a campaign volunteer took him to the polls.

United State Senator

Reps. in Congress, District 2

Bill Nelson DConnie Mack R

Steve Southerland RAl Lawson D

State Attorney 2nd Judicial Court

Willie Meggs DPete Wiliams R

State Senator, District 3

Bill Montford DJohn Shaw R

State Reps. 7th House District

Halsey Beshear R Robert Hill D

State Reps. 9th House District

Bradley Maxwell R

Michelle Rehwinkel-Vasalinda

Sheriff

Larry Campbell DLisa Sprague NPA

Superintendent of Schools

Jackie Pons DSabrina M. Allen R

Circuit Judge

Barbara HobbsJosefina M. Tamayo

Board of County Commissioners

Akin AkinyemiMary Ann Lindley

City Commissioner

Scott Maddox

Amendments 1 No

Yes

No

No

No

No

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

Amendments 2

Amendments 3

Amendments 4

Amendments 5

Amendments 6

Amendments 8

Amendments 9

Amendments 10

Amendments 11

Amendments 12

School Sales Tax

Steve Stewart

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Votes

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

Percentage

4, 267, 177

174, 689

67, 021

99, 344

2, 2025

50, 449

88, 034

10, 563

63, 739

62, 944

45, 840

3, 270, 233

155, 676

61, 657

30, 089

1, 422

31, 437

39, 985

21, 359

55, 243

58, 796

28, 325

55.2

52.9

52.08

76.7

58.7

61.6

68. 7

83.1

53. 5

51.7

61.8

42.3

47.1

47.92

23.25

41.2

38.3

31.2

16.8

46.4

48.3

38.1

Poll Results

her frustrations with the new rules. “Our opening scene consists of students that are a part

of organizations and students that are not. About 25 of those students are freshmen,” Exantus said. “Because of the new rules, these models lack the proper training and confidence needed to perform for such a large crowd.”

In order to maintain membership in an organization, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA, be in good academic and judicial standing and have 30 documented hours of community service. Each organization is required to submit detailed monthly community service reports to the Office of Student Affairs.

Avagay Lindsay, a senior public relations student and Images model from Ft. Lauderdale will be participating in this year’s Fashion Show. Despite the rules’ interference with practices and intake, Lindsay provided a positive

outlook on the situation.“This year it feels different,” Lindsay said. “I’m used to

coaching the new Images members as well as meeting some the new members of the other troupes. This year it feels like a family reunion. Aside from the few freshmen that we have, everyone is pretty familiar with one another.”

In celebration of FAMU’s 125th anniversary, models will be showcasing the fashion of the past 125 years as well as giving FAMU students the opportunity to sport their own clothing lines.

“Despite the changes and rules that have been implemented this year, we have an amazing show planned,”Exantus said. “Myself as well as others have been working with these students twice a week for some time and they are going to blow the audience away.”

The homecoming fashion show will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012 at 7pm in Gaither Gym.

PlAnning

erickson JosePh CorreSpondent

NEWSWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuannews@gmail.com4 Homecoming 2012

After numerous conversations with my peers, it is safe to say that there seems to be some discontent among the student body.

For many of the upperclassmen, this year’s homecoming week of events has been very disappointing. In light of the university’s 125th anniversary, many students were expecting an extravagant, e x t r a o r d i n a r y , memorable homecoming experience. However, this year’s event lineup seems to be no different than any other homecoming in years past.

Actually, it is a little worse when considering its level of student

appeal. Many have stated that this year’s homecoming appeals to an older alumni audience. With events such as the President’s Gala, selling $125 tickets that not many students can realistically afford, students feel left out of what their Activity & Service fees pay for.

The Backyard Party - Open Air Concert featuring artists Raheem DeVaughn

and Doug E. Fresh seems to be an example of the Homecoming Committee, and more specifically, Director of Student Activities Marvin Green taking the cheap way out.

These artists are “irrelevant.” They are not very popular and do not attract the students who are paying for them to come.

Last year, the Homecoming Block Party was a huge hit with students and alumni who were in town – showcasing four disc jockeys simultaneously in different areas of the Set. Why that event was not included this year, students may never know.

Safety has been brought to my attention

as a probable issue, but if we pay for everything else, we can pay for security guards and the FAMU police.

The Greek Step Show has been omitted from this year’s schedule, and the dorm step show was taken out of homecoming week entirely. These are all events that the A&S fee-paying students find most exciting.

The 2012 FAMU Homecoming is not something I am eager to experience outside of seeing old friends and alumni. Several students who were once members of the Homecoming Committee stepped down due to decisions being made by members of administration who were utilizing their power to overrule student ideas and desires. This is a disservice to the students and it is unfair.

With the Marching “100” being suspended this year, the university and individuals responsible for the homecoming acts needed to do everything they could to make it as attractive and appealing as possible. It is apparent that they have failed to do so.

Most students consider Paddyfote the worst residence hall to live in. “It’s too small” seems to be the largest complaint, but filth and general unattractiveness seem to be common as well.

There is no real lobby, one of the four buildings has been shut down and, as previously stated, the rooms are the smallest of any on campus. Nobody wants to be a resident of arguably the most neglected, underrated residence hall at Florida A&M.

However, many late appliers have no choice and reluctantly resign themselves to what will surely be a miserable yearlong experience in a hideous residence hall.

But most of these fears are largely unfounded. The Paddyfote resident assistants have spearheaded many programs this year, one of which is a beautification project. This program aims to improve the landscape and aesthetics in and around the Paddyfote courtyard.

In September, residents and RAs helped Resident Director William Johnson place fabric, rocks and red mulch around the pathways to improve the look of the aging buildings. Many of the visual ideas came from the residents, such as the wavy mulch pattern around one of the sidewalks extending away from Building C and the “river” of rocks extending from the gutters on the female buildings.

Many of the same people helped with both the gravel placement around the Paddyfote tree and the painting of the railings and benches around the pavilion, which is Paddyfote’s equivalent to a lobby.

“I’m really proud of everybody,” said Jillian Sanders, a freshman business administration student from Tampa and vice president

of Paddyfote Hall Government. “I like the way everyone cares about the dorm and making it look better.”

Paddyfote also has one of the most spirited communities on campus.

“Because of our small size, we tend to see and interact with each other more often than people from the other dorms,” said Devon Lawrence, a second-year biology student from Tampa.

That interaction leads to an sense of camaraderie and morale. Paddyfote’s step team is the reigning champion of the Housing Step Show, which was held in October. Paddyfote also won the “spirit boot,” which is an award given to the most spirited supporters.

“We’re the best,” said Johnessia Sholtz, the president of Paddyfote Hall Government. “Simple as that.”

The P-Fote “Souljas,” a select group of male Paddyfote residents, are a resilient bunch. Their unique location and structure give them a sense of pride and belonging that goes unmatched across FAMU’s campus.

Homecoming is a week that past and current Rattlers can enjoy along with visitors from around the country. Students should enjoy the privileges of being a Rattler, but remember why you are here.

Millions of students are attaining degrees each year – millions. The cost of attendance at Florida A&M for the next academic year will increase to about $18,000 for in-state students and $31,000 for out-of-state students, according to the FAMU website.

During that year, colleges and universities are expected to award 1.8 million bachelor’s degrees and 756,000 master’s degrees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Tuition keeps increasing and millions of students are seeking the same degree as you. So why are you here?

In 2010, about 74 percent of young adults with a bachelor’s degree or higher were employed full time. The median annual earnings for young adults with a bachelor’s degree was $45,000 and $54,700 for young adults with a master’s degree or higher, according to NCES.

Earning $45,000 a year is not bad. It is an advantage of earning a college degree versus an associate

degree or high school diploma or GED, but college is not worth the cost if you are here just to obtain a degree. Almost 2 million students will receive a bachelor’s degree the next academic year. Much of that 2 million will be looking for jobs, and many will be after the same jobs as you.

Take advantage of your opportunity. Weigh the pros and cons when it comes to skipping classes, especially during homecoming. Think about whether partying until 2 a.m. is worth missing your 8 a.m. class.

Thanksgiving is near and finals are around the corner. Now is not the time to allow your grades to suffer. Do not just graduate – stand out.

Build relationships with your professors. It may be too late for the fall, but many of them should know your name by the end of each semester. Professors have been there and done that. They know what it takes to succeed. Do not be afraid to have an occasional sip from their fountain of knowledge.

Look for internships and become active members in organizations to build your resume. The competition is real. As potential employees, we are not in competition with FAMU, Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College students but students and adults throughout the nation. Remember why you are here.

It should not be just to get a bachelor’s degree. Obtaining a bachelor’s is an accomplishment, and you should be proud. But at the end of the day, it makes you “one of nearly 2 million.” Set yourself apart and take advantage of your opportunity.

Establish a rapport with professors in your field of study. Take advantage of workshops and other helpful events that take place on campus.

We are all competing for jobs, and resumes and GPAs speak for themselves. If neither is among your top priorities, then why are you here?

It is homecoming, and you should enjoy it. But do not let a week of fun blind you into losing sight of you why chose to attend this university and ruin your academic progress.

Lest we forget our true purpose

A disservice to students Paddyfote speaks

NolaN Mccaskill

Copy Desk Cheif

Gladys Murray

CorresponDentdarius JoNes

CorresponDent

Homecoming is the most anticipated event of the year. It is our time to get together as Rattlers and have a good time in the name of orange and green. However, while we are holding events and cheering for our Rattler football team, one can only wonder how things are in the land of garnet and gold.

Rumors have been circling for years that many Florida State University students find the best time to take a quick vacation is during Florida A&M’s homecoming week. Of course, we know that correlation does not mean causation, yet we have seen

FSU students leaving Tallahassee year after year as Rattler families make their way into the city.

I do not know anyone who has openly admitted to leaving town because of FAMU festivities. If I did know someone, my first question is why? I happily stay in town during FSU’s homecoming. In fact, some FAMU students call on out-of-town friends and family to join them for FSU’s

homecoming events.The issue of population

control does not seem like a logical problem considering FSU clearly has more students than FAMU. Seminole families travel from all over the country to our state capital for the big FSU homecoming game. And instead of avoiding FSU’s campus, Rattlers tend to join in celebration by attending the game, afterparties and concerts.

Maybe it is the age-old rivalry that some students still feed into. Although the tension between our schools dates back to when my parents were in college, it is simply old and unnecessary. I would

hope that neither FAMU nor FSU students would still feel so negatively toward each other that they would rather pack up and leave than be surrounded by yet another fan. After all, we do not play each other in football nor are we natural rivals. All we do is share a city. Officials at both schools have worked hard to bring our two universities closer together. This should encourage all students to want to happily mingle.

Yes, there are FAMU students who pit themselves against FSU students and vice versa, bringing up issues of quality of education, wealth and, as much as we would like to deny, race. But the hatred has to stop. Although the relationship between both schools has come a long way, there are still some barriers that can be broken. I would love to see more FSU students over on the Hill during our games, not just for homecoming. It not only diversifies the crowd, but it allows us to more directly share our “FAMUly” love, which, to me, is what homecoming is all about.

‘Noles leave town

BrittaNy daNiels

CorresponDent

Political Takeout

OPINIONSWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuanopinions@gmail.com5

Credit: Daryl Cagle, CagleCartoons.com

Homecoming 2012

Workers poured concrete on the footpath outside Florida A&M’s Gore Education Complex and smoothed steps on the new stairwell Thursday as 15 months of construction came to an end.

Inside, other workers pulled phone and Internet cables into winding labyrinths in server rooms, installed aluminum

panels in the ceilings of covered walkways, checked electrical supplies and plumbing and swept floors.

Every few minutes, lights flashed and fire alarms blared. Workers seemed oblivious. They kept moving and hauling and drilling as though nothing had changed while fire inspectors combed all three floors of Buildings A, B and C of the Gore complex to determine whether the buildings are safe.

“We’re testing them to make sure everything’s ready,” said Gary Meredith, senior project manager at Baycrest Corporation, which is in charge of construction management.

Baycrest reached “substantial completion” last week, meaning the firm is close to finishing the $10 million renovation. Students say they are looking forward to the improved Gore complex, which will include smart classrooms, motion-sensing lights, a new entrance and a wall of fame for distinguished alumni.

“Being at substantial completion means we’re ready to turn the project over for use,” Meredith said.

Although work is winding down, it is still an active construction site. Signs remind workers and visitors to “keep doors closed.” Door handles are wrapped. A few frames are missing glass panels and boxes of new supplies stretch along various sections of the buildings.

Workers have replaced the roofs, added new carpets, remodeled classrooms and restrooms, added reflective glass panels and aluminum sunscreens along with other spruce-ups such as planted trees and artificial turf.

Meredith and his team will be working for another two weeks in November and for a few weeks in December once the university is closed for winter break.

Students said they believe that restoring outdated buildings and modernizing classrooms will boost campus morale.

“I am hopeful it’ll be similar to Tucker Hall,” said Miguel Rivera, a 22-year-old senior English student from Tallahassee. “I think it’s an enormous benefit for the campus.I think it motivates the students.”

Tucker Hall and Jones Hall are two other campus buildings that received large-scale renovations in recent years. Contractors added projector and computer facilities for classrooms in both buildings. In Jones Hall, contractors upgraded the laboratories and in Tucker Hall, rebuilt the second-floor Gallery of Distinction, an

area that features photos of outstanding alumni of FAMU’s arts and sciences programs.

The Gore complex’s new Gallery of Distinction will feature marble engravings of at least the current 35 members. It will be outside Buildings A and B and facing the new Gamble Street entrance.

Earlier contractors have improved

the technology and aesthetics in Tucker Hall and Jones Hall while preserving the sites’ architecture. Baycrest has done the same for the Gore complex. And that suits senior English student Harold Anderson just fine.

“I think giving a facelift to the campus is a good idea,” said 23-year-old Anderson, a native of Jacksonville. “I’m expecting a nice, cleaner look. I like how they kept the historical value but they redo the inside.”

The College of Education has been operating from the former FAMU DRS building. The classrooms fit 20 or more students and the auditoriums fit at least 60. Most of these rooms, however, do not have computers and monitors built in.

“It’s kind of boring to go into,” said Tiara Glover, a 20-year-old junior secondary education student from Orlando.

With the new classrooms, I hope the students will be more engaged,” Administrators at the College of Education are planning to overhaul the education curriculum to better provide for minority students and train teachers for self-evaluation, and Interim Associate Dean of Assessment and Accountability Mark Howse said the Gore complex remodel happened “at a very good time.”

“We’re looking to complement our production of effective teachers and leaders. It’s important that teachers-in-training experience learning spaces similar to the real world,” said Howse. He also said students can expect some “very significant changes to our curriculum.”

FAMU is still awaiting delivery of furniture for the classrooms and administrative offices. Desks and chairs are scheduled to arrive on Dec. 17, said Craig Talton, project manager at FAMU’s Offices of Facilities, Planning and Construction.

He said he expects College of Education officials to begin using the buildings “either before Christmas or during Christmas break.”

Baycrest also remodeled Sampson Hall and Young Hall, two men’s dormitories that had been closed for years. Baycrest, along with partners Premier Construction and Development Inc., also laid the foundation for the new 800-room student dormitory at the former Polkinghorne Village site. That was before a contractual dispute between Premier and FAMU’s Board of Trustees ended the work in August.

D.A. Robin Staff Writer

AARPAgency for Persons w/ DisabilitiesAmerican Red CrossApalachee Center Inc.Audiology Associates of North FloridaBe The MatchBig Bend AHEC: Bone DensityBig Bend AHEC: Cooking DemonstrationBig Bend AHEC: Smoking CessationBig Bend HospiceBig Bend CaresBig Bend Chapter: National Ovarian Cancer CoalitionBond Community Health Center, Inc.Brewed for Success: Visalus Independent DistributorCapital Area Healthy StartCapital Region YMCACapital Regional Bariatric CenterCenter for Disability Access & ResourcesCity Of Tallahassee: Energy ServicesCity of Tallahassee: Utility ServicesCostco WholesaleCovenant HospiceDCF - ACCESS FloridaDOH Molar ExpressEarth FareEmergency Response Division: Fire DepartmentEnjoy Life Rehabilitation CenterEyesaversFlorida Department of Health: Immunization ProgramsFAMU College of PharmacyFAMU Division of Cardiopulmonary SciencesFAMU Division of Occupational TherapyFAMU Public SafetyFAMU Office of Counseling Serv. & FAMU Women’s CenterFAMU Student Health ServicesFlorida Park ServiceFlorida Therapy ServicesGold's GymHabitat for HumanityHealth South Rehabilitation HospitalInternal Revenue ServiceIsagenix InternationalLeon County EMSLeon County Health Department: Chronic DiseaseLeon County Health Department: WICLeon County Health Department: STD ProgramLeon County Health Department: Office of Minority HealthLeon County Health Department: BCCEDPLeon County Sheriff's OfficeLupus Support NetworkMAACAMagellan Health ServicesMary Kay Skin CareNational Parkinson's Foundation- North FloridaNeighborhood Health ServicesNew Leaf MarketOmega Psi Phi Fraternity: Grad ChapterOunce of Prevention Fund of Florida

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NEWSWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuancalendar@gmail.com8 Homecoming 2012

Alvin McBean/The FamuanConstruction workers laboring tediously to see Gore Education Complex through to the end.

Education complex nears completion

Events attract non-RattlersPuRhnel Meek Staff Writer

For more than a century, the homecoming experience at Florida A&M has been a staple in southern tradition. As people flood Tallahassee from around the nation, it is evident that FAMU is a prime location for fall festivities.

The experience features a variety of events this year, from barbecues to community worship service to the fashion and step shows. One of the most anticipated events for FAMU’s homecoming lineup is Superfest. With Bill Bellamy as host, this concert is slated to sell out the Al Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center. It will also feature performances by Rick Ross, members of the Maybach Music Group and the Miami legend Uncle Luke.

Keith Robinson is a singer, songwriter and actor from the movie “Dreamgirls” and “35 and Ticking.”

“Living in Los Angeles, I know quite a few Famuans, and they all seem to have a certain thing about them,” Robinson said. “I am happy to be a part of this homecoming so I can feel it for myself. I’m bringing my music with me, too.”

Celebrity appearances are one addition to the many activities that attract thousands of people to homecoming each year.

“There is something to be said about the culture that is represented at this HBCU,” said Melia Watson, a senior cardiopulmonary student from Atlanta. “One of my favorite aspects of homecoming is watching the band perform. I’ve gone to see them since freshman year, and I know they will be missed this year.”

Although the Marching “100” is not currently representing FAMU, the legacy of the university’s band remains.

“The music hasn’t gone anywhere,” said Isaac Carter, president of the FAMU Chapter of Music and Entertainment Industry Student Association. “We still have great things going on in the music department, and we have a lot of talent and versatility that represents the one universal language of music.”

The 125th anniversary provides an added incentive to those contemplating missing out on the homecoming activities. Aside from music, FAMU plans to hold several events that should appeal to the community, student body, alumni and those in search of a good time.

“I love going to FAMU’s homecoming every year,” said John Alexander, a criminal justice student from Detroit. “I’m not ashamed to say – I’m going for the women.”

Kristen Colquitt, a Tallahassee Community College student from St. Petersburg feels that homecoming is more than just an event.

“It’s an experience,” Colquitt said. “The tradition of FAMU and the memories that are created during homecoming are something that I can say I was a part of, even though I don’t attend school there.”

It is likely for students attending the events during homecoming week to run across people from other schools, counties and states. Some have been known to save up for a year to get a fresh paint job or even a new wardrobe to impress the attendees of the festivities.

“Everybody is coming from different cities, and they bring music back home with them,” said rapper Chris “GameFace” Simmons, a senior accounting student from Ft. Lauderdale. “I think homecoming is a great opportunity to reach my fan base.”

It is a quiet afternoon. The neighborhood is serene and 94-year-old Rattler Lucille Williams watches as the scenery changes.

As she sits on her porch, located on Young Street near Florida A&M’s School of Architecture, she slowly reflects on her youthful days as a Rattler.

Petite in stature with a sharp mind, Williams revealed how her family is steeped in FAMU’s history.

“My family is connected to FAMU,” Williams said as she displayed their class photos. “My mother finished FAMU in 1909, and my auntie finished in 1908.”

Williams’ grandfather, Henry Thomas, was a freed slave who sent his two daughters to college. The university was known as the State Normal and Industrial College for Colored Students at the time.

In 1909, it was renamed Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College for Negroes. Though it was hard to fathom the desire to go to college during an era somewhat fresh from the abolition of slavery, Williams said it was a must in her family.

“It was pretty understood in my family that after high school you went to college,” Williams said.

She explained the importance of education in her family. Though Williams was the only daughter, her mother believed it was vital for her to attend college.

Born in the small city of Apalachicola, Williams said her life consisted of home, church and school. However, that never stopped her from exploring a world where opportunities for African-

Americans were scarce but seemed boundless at FAMU.

As a freshman in 1935, she lived in the science hall that contained a dormitory upstairs and science classes downstairs. Williams, who graduated in 1940 majoring in mathematics, still recalls her freshman roommate Lillian Thompson, who majored in music.

She also remembered then-FAMU President John Robert Edward Lee who brought many nationally known speakers to campus.

“I think about how privileged we were to be in an environment that gave us a great outlook on life,” she said.

The pride in her almond-shaped eyes was evident when she explained how college expanded her world and told of the impact FAMU had on her. She said the world was small with less distractions back then, but it gave her countless, unforgettable memories.

Williams’ aspiration as a college student was to become an educator. After graduating, she used education to give back so that she could assist in expounding the visions of children.

“I love talking to Mrs. Lucille,” said Sharielle Johnson, a senior business administration student from Tallahassee who lives next to Williams. “She’s full of wisdom and has always given me great advice regarding life and school. It helps having someone whose experienced it all.”

Williams has served as coordinator of education for Leon and Wakulla counties, was an assistant principal and went on to become a principal.

She was later elected president of Florida Association for Childhood Education International.

The Lucille Williams Mini Grant for students, a $150 grant, was named after her. It is sponsored by the Florida

Association for Childhood Education International and is available for student-teachers to construct projects with children in the internship classroom.

“Give,” Williams said. “The more you give, the more you receive. College is a door for opportunity.”

Williams’ noticed that her words about giving may come across as an ancient language. The displeasure in her voice spoke volumes as she compared the interest in learning with people of yesterday compared to those of today.

“I just wonder,” Williams said. “Are we losing the human touch?”

Seasoned Rattler reminisces

Williams said people of her time used to speak to each other when they passed by.

“Now, I see people walking around looking down,” Williams. She said people are looking at something in their hands with something

in their ears. “They’re almost about to bump into each other,” Williams said. However, Williams believes that technology is wonderful when it is

used for the sole purpose it was created for. “Use it for what it was made for,” she said. “But don’t let it take over

your mind.”

Sharell WillliamS Staff Writer

Special to The FamuanLucille Williams is a proud FAMU alumna who remembers what it was like to be a Rattler in the first half of the 20th century.

LIFESTYLESWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuanlifestyles@gmail.com9 Homecoming 2012

Florida A&M’s fashion is like no other. For “Homecoming 125,” Rattlers are expected to step out and show out. Crowds will join together to make sure that people notice their individuality. One may ask, why does fashion have such a huge platform at FAMU, especially during homecoming?

The answer for most is clear. This is how we do it. FAMU is a university full of students who feel comfortable enough to stand out and express themselves through fashion. These unforgettable fashion moments shed light on the history of FAMU throughout 125 years. Whether students are rocking old school apparel, heels or outrageous hairstyles, homecoming is the best week of fashion on the Hill.

“Part of what makes the culture of FAMU is the diversity in fashion from different parts of the country,” said Jerome Williams, a fourth-year health care management student from Ft. Lauderdale. “During regular school hours,

it’s a fashion show. So for homecoming, you must put your best foot forward. Fashion at homecoming separates the best dressed from the regulars.”

The week of homecoming allows those confused individuals to capture one of the biggest traditions of homecoming with some of the best and worst fashion moments on the Hill.

One of the reasons I love FAMU is the opportunity I have every morning to express myself through fashion. Whether judged or not, Rattlers understand the importance of standing out and it is promoted everyday I step on campus.

FAMU has proven that you do not need a lot of money to look like a million bucks. No matter what your budget is, your style can be inexpensively creative and give people moments to remember every school year.

“It becomes an unofficial fashion show around campus because no one wants to get caught on camera somehow not looking up to par,” said Melissa Dunbar, a fourth-year pre-physical therapy student from Ft. Lauderdale.

I am sure the glory years of the ‘90s on the Hill served as a testament of how tradition never changes. Fashion is part of FAMU and whether it is Set Friday, the homecoming football game or just heading to class, there are many runways on the Hill.

Since last November, Florida A&M has been involved with scandals. As the university’s credibility diminishes, its culture will soon follow suit. In addition to the frequent drama with the Office of Student Activities and the Student Government Association, a battle over homecoming has pitted students against the university administration.

Students expressed their discontent with homecoming at meetings and it fell on deaf ears. Twitter rants about homecoming did not help vocalize student opinions either. Many feel that the schedule is alumni-centered, despite students’ $10.50 per credit hour Activity and Service fees funding the schedule of events.

“The new freshman will not get the typical homecoming experience,” said Breyon Sneed, a 23 year-old from Pompano Beach.

Sneed sat on last year’s Homecoming Committee. He feels that this year every

meeting was exclusive to certain demographics and cliques.

Students lost their voices in selecting many of the artists and entertainers who are part of the scheduled lineup. The selection of artists often left many students uninterested in attending the meetings.

The schedule and website was launched only a few weeks before homecoming. BET will not be part of the barbecue this year. The dorm step show was moved to parents’ weekend. There are three religious events spread throughout the week. No party or social segment is listed either.

Kyle Washington, a 25-year-old from Tallahassee, was also on the executive committee of last year’s homecoming

“I think it lacks homecoming,” Washington said. “For it to be the 125th year, disappointment will be an understatement.”

Washington feels that Director of Student Activities Marvin Green dropped the ball on preparing to execute homecoming in a timely manner.

“He had 13 months and a doubled salary and doubled homecoming budget,” Washington said.

The expectations for this year’s events were high because of an increased budget and it being the institution’s 125th anniversary.

Everyday is a runway Students feel ignored

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Moving forward, four more yearsIt is finally over. We

braved the waters of yet another tumultuous campaign season and a winner has surfaced. The Obama family will remain in the White House and the country lies in wait of the promised move “forward.” With the president sitting in for his second term, The Famuan staff reflects on his journey thus far and predicts what lies ahead.

After jumping the hurdle of many “anyone but

Obama” supporters, we predict that the president will have one more obstacle to face. Obama is well- known and highly commended for his efforts in bipartisanship. However, the party leaders in the House of Representatives, who just so happened to be Republicans, sometimes canceled out these efforts. If the party leaders in our legislative branch remain as they have been for the next four years, we are in trouble.

When it comes to sheer

experience, we felt that Obama was the more qualified candidate. His views on social issues seemed a bit more realistic than having “binders full of women.” Obama realizes that we cannot all ask our parents to pay for our education and that a 65-year-old man should not be making decisions about what goes on inside of a woman’s body.

Outside of the great strides the president has made in bipartisanship, he has made some missteps.

As a news publication

at a historically black institution, we have had our fair share of people requesting endorsements for various campaigns, not just political ones. Sometimes the Obama campaign seemed to feel entitled to the vote of most African-Americans. While statistically, many African-Americans typically lean toward a Democratic candidate, assumptions such as this should not be made. The public should be able to make its own decision without regard to something as superficial as

race. This is, after all, the open-minded attitude that got Obama elected in the first place.

We are hopeful for the next four years and comfortable with the decision that many Americans have made. Even though the hype of having the first African-American president has simmered, we hope that Obama approaches his second term with the same, if not more, fervor. When it comes to college students, Barack’s got our back.

kEndra MoorEr

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Homecoming ignites the strike in Rattlers

This homecoming, we are all gathering to show our everlasting love for Florida A&M. We are celebrating its legacy by remembering a school that started 125 years

ago with 15 students and two professors to what is now one of the most distinguished historically black universities in the world. During one of FAMU’s most memorable moments, students shed light on what the university has brought and meant to them over the years.

“With all the negative energy that’s been surrounding the school, this homecoming will be that much more special.” Darnell Jordan, fourth-year physical education student.

“Meeting the alumni, tasting all the vendors, it was like winning the lottery. I felt at home.” Kiara Nixon, third-year biology pre-med student.

“I love the park activities when BET would come. But that’s not happening this year. I’m not even sure what to expect.” Samantha Sinclair, fourth-year criminal justice student.

“We have alumni who have taken on the world, and I’m ready to be one of them.” Mario Milligan, fourth-year psychology/political

science student.

ashLEy sMith

CorresponDent

staff EditoriaL

Famuan staFF

Homecoming 2012

The many faces of homecoming

Alvin McBean/ The FamuanThe Homecoming Comedy and Talent Show delivered hearty laughs and an array of acts that captivated the audience. (Clockwise) FAMU Alum Roy Woods Jr., Marissa Brisker of the DC Metro Band, Voices member Caleb Bodly. Bottom (left to right) comedians Marvin Dixon and Gary Owens, Mr.FAMU Larry Polynice.(Above) Student judge “Mr./Mrs. Lady Saw” and Host Tight Mike.

Raising awareness for adolescent suicide

Alvin McBean/ The FamuanMore than 1,000 college students commit suicide each year. The organization Active Minds dropped backpacks around campus to highlight the death toll.

SPECIALWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuanphotos@gmail.com

Homecoming 2012 11

Bragg Memorial Stadium is packed, fans are cheering and lights are shining bright. Florida A&M’s opponent is waiting on the other side of the field for its looming loss. The football players are in the locker room being led in prayer by legendary head football coach Alonzo “Jake” Gaither. The prayer went as follows:

Dear God,God of the Rattlers, a

sweet and just God, the only God we know. We submit ourselves humbly today for your blessings. We are not asking for victory over all our enemies, but for the ability to participate fairly in the game of life. Grant us the wisdom to know what plays to call and the strength to follow them through. Help us, Lord Jesus,

to transfer your strength and wisdom to the game of life and be able to walk in the footsteps of our Heavenly Father. All these blessings we ask through the grace of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

During the 1940s and 1950s, FAMU football was at its best. Gaither led the Rattlers to five black college football championships.

The Gaither era, which lasted 25 years, was the most memorable of FAMU football, producing six national titles, 22 conference championships, 36 All-Americans and 42 NFL football players.

Rudy Givens played football for FAMU during the 1960s. Givens was a lineman from 1961 to 1965. In 1965, he was the co-captain of the team and won the Division I Defensive Player of the Year. He was part of the “blood” unit.

Gaither introduced the

Split-T formation on offense and held one of the top football clinics in the nation. He used the words “blood,” “sweat” and “tears” to describe his team’s depth chart. The blood of the team was the starting offense, the sweat was the starting defense and the tears were a combination of offensive and defensive backups.

“This era was the most winning era we had,” Givens said. “That’s when the love and desire for FAMU really started. Blood, sweat and tears is the history of FAMU.”

From the starters to the players who did not get much playing time, each player was assigned to a unit. Those who did not get much playing time were known as the scraps.

During the time of segregation, Gaither took advantage by recruiting the best African-American football players and turning

them into stars. Most of them were from the surrounding cities in Florida.

“He only recruited the top athletes in Florida,” Givens said. “The greatest thing was you knew you had to be the best.”

Gaither had second string and third string players on his team who would start for most college football teams. He said that he wanted his players to be hostile, agile and mobile. Gaither produced NFL players such as Willie Galimore, Bob Hayes and Hewritt Dixon.

From 1957 to 1960, John D. Glover was part of the blood, sweat and tears era of FAMU football. Glover played split end, known today as wide receiver. He had a Hall of Fame career and went on to become the first African-American to be a special agent in charge in an FBI field office.

“One team would leave the

field, and excellence was still sustained,” Glover said.

Under Gaither, the Rattlers made history several times. Against Bethune-Cookman University, the Rattlers shut out the Wildcats and won one of the highest scoring games 97-0.

“During the Cookman game, we weren’t trying to run the score up,” Glover said. “It just happened.”

The school also made history by beating a predominately white college, the University of Tampa, which was a first for the program.

After retiring as head football coach of FAMU, Gaither became director of athletics.

“Coach Gaither was a successful teacher,” Glover said. “He made you feel that when you came to FAMU, you were the best.”

Salif Kante has demonstrated his skills on the tennis court by winning a national championship at the junior college level and helping the Rattlers win an HBCU national championship.

Kante, a fourth-year public relations student from Dakar, Senegal, has returned home to represent his country in the African Nations Cup.

Kante was the No. 1 tennis player coming out of Senegal in 2009. He transferred to Florida A&M from Georgia Perimeter College, where he won a junior college national championship.

Kante understands the magnitude of the African Nations Cup and the pressure associated with representing his country on an international stage. However, he is ready for the challenge.

“Since it’s at home, we want to do even better because people expect a lot of things from us,” Kante said. “So we have to get the job done.”

The tournament began Monday and will last through Sunday. It allows Senegal, the host nation, to have five men and five women participate. Other countries are allowed three men and three women.

Kante is also excited about representing the Rattlers in Senegal because he is able to show how he

has grown as a player and a person since arriving at FAMU.

Men’s tennis coach Carl Goodman is proud of the progress Kante has made as an individual as well as an athlete.

“Now, he is an outgoing person,” Goodman said. “With the leadership that he has and the confidence that he has, I am sure he is going to do relevantly good over there.”

The tournament is an opportunity for Kante to bounce back after struggling with injuries throughout most of the fall.

“I been going to the training room to get some rehab,” Kante said. “They have been working on me for the last three weeks, and now I am feeling better.”

The athletic trainers have been pushing the limits of Kante’s body since the rehab began to make sure he is 100 percent.

“He is moving better now,” said Alfred, one of Kante’s training partners.

Kante has the chance to bring glory and victory to Senegal and FAMU.

“It’s kind of exciting because not only do I get to represent my country but I get to represent FAMU,” he said.

Kante won his first match against Ivory Coast 6-2, 6-2 and beat the fourth seed from Morocco to advance to the quarterfinals. He will face competitors from Nigeria in the next round.

Kante represents SenegalTennis star plays in African Nations Cup

Jonothan heredia

Staff Writer

Jake Gaither led FAMU to five championships

JoneSa rodriguez

CorreSpondent

SPORTSWednesday, November 7, 2012 famuansports@gmail.com12

Special To The FamaunSalif Kante has the home field advantage competing in Senegal.

Willie Galimore, Florida A&M’s all-time rushing leader (1953 to 1956), had a Hall of Fame career.

Coach Alonzo “Jake” Gaither: “I like my boys hostile, agile and mobile.”

Robert “Bullet Bob” Hayes had an All-Pro NFL career as a Dallas Cowboys wide receiver.

Homecoming 2012