THIS WEEK INAFRICAN AMERICAN

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NUBIAN MESSAGEWEDNESDAY | NOVEMBER 4 | 2009

SENTINEL OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY AT NC STATE SINCE 1992 ISSUE 9 WWW.NCSU.EDU/NUBIAN

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Robert Marshall | Arts & Entertainment

The Great Xi Zeta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. hosted the Miss Phi Beta Sigma Scholarship Pageant on Wednesday, October 28, 2009. Cameron Johnson hosted the event featuring: Whitney Deschamps, Eboni Christie, Delisa Hawkes, and Julie Pitts. The first section was the in-troduction. The ladies crossed the stage, telling their names, majors, and numbers in the competition. The swimsuit sec-tion followed and was hosted by Justin Watkins and Michael Moore. Each young lady entered wearing a swimsuit and were judged by the suit that complimented their physique the best. Dance Visions performed then was followed by, my favorite part, the talent section. Maynard Jeannis hosted this portion in which Eboni Christie sang the gospel song “I Cant Complain” which went very well. Delisa Hawkes played a piano piece by Alicia Keys, surprising me with her abilities. Juliana Pitts stood out in my mind with her amaz-

ing talent. She displayed her artwork which was amazing to say the least. She airbrushed and painted everything from skateboards to an amazing portrait of her parents. Whit-ney Deschamps recited a thought provoking poem entitled “Act Like a Lady” about her opinion on how a lady should act. J-read followed that with some amazing poetry, “Baby Girl” and “Homage.” “Homage” was definitely the best of the night with word play based on hip-hop and R&B artists’ monikers. The last section was the evening gown portion in which each contestant wore an evening gown and answered questions.

The night ended with the announcement of the winner, Juliana Pitts and the runner-up/people’s choice winner Whitney Deschamps. Whitney gained the title of Miss Xi Zeta and Juliana, Miss Phi Beta Sigma. I enjoyed the night, being my first Sigma pageant. The brothers did a great job and I am looking forward to next year’s pageant.

November 4, 1879 - Thomas Elkins patents refrigeration ap-paratus.

November 5, 1968 - Shirley Chisolm of Brooklyn, N.Y., becomes the first African American woman elected to Congress.

November 6, 1901 - James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosa-mond Johnson compose “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, widely regarded as the Black national anthem.

November 7, 1989 - L. Doug-las Wilder is elected governor of Virginia,, becoming the na-tion’s first Black governor since the Reconstruction.

November 8, 1938 - Crystal Bird Faucet is elected state representative in Pennsylvania, becoming the first Black wom-an to serve in a state legislature.

November 9, 1731 - Math-ematician, urban planner and inventor Benjamin Banneker born.

November 10, 1983 - Wil-son Goode elected, becoming Philadelphia’s first African American mayor.

November 11, 1989 - Civil Rights Memorial is dedicated in Montgomery, Ala.

Miss Blue and White PageantPhi Beta Sigma celebrates beauty, poise and talent

Juliana Pitts and Whitney Des-champs, winners of the Miss Phi Beta Sigma pageant, with other pageant winners from surrounding areas | Photo by Kali Rogers

Getting Back in the HabitLauren Gayden | Arts & Entertainment Writer

It is no surprise that many of us have tried to pick a diet and stick to it but failed to do so. And there are many out there who have attempted to maintain a consistent work out plan to no avail; we simply chose to give up because we are unsure of what to do and how to do it. Last Wednesday, W.E.S.T. (Women Empowering Society Together) hosted “Get in the H.A.B.I.T.” (Health, Active, Balance, and Inclined, Towards a Better You) to help promote a healthier lifestyle among college students. Campus Recreation, the Women Center, Pack Peers, and the Counseling Center were some of the organizations that participated in the event.

To kick off the program, the well-known student dance group Dancing With Wolves showed participants sever-al dance moves in between a few laughs and giggles here and there; this little exercise helped loosen up some nerves and resulted in others around the room trying to imitate the dance they had just been taught. Afterwards, attendees were treated to healthy treats like ham & cheese, turkey & cheese, and veggie subs from Jimmy John’s, smoothies from Planet Smoothie, water, other snacks such as granola bars and grapes. As they were eating and socializing, students also had a chance to visit the information tables set up; one table measured students’ blood pressure and body mass in-dex (BMI) to see if in fact students were as healthy and fit as they thought they were. Some people were not expecting the results they got and were not “happy” at what they saw as one student put it. The table over had a university dietician that gave everyone eye-opening facts about nutrition; two

pamphlets gave people the do’s and don’ts of eating on the run at various fast-food restaurants to include Subway and Wendy’s. She even had two diet books (that can be found at the university bookstore) about how to prepare meals that do not contain many calories and what portions to eat them in. There was even a time-glass like diagram that displayed how much fiber, which has been shown to reduce an individ-ual’s risk of having heart disease and type II diabetes accord-ing to studies done by the Harvard School of Public Health, popular foods such as microwave popcorn and oatmeal have in them.

There were also tables that promoted physical, mental, and sexual health. A counselor was present at one of the tables to help provide students with any questions that had on things such as mental and psychological health and what they could about it. A table manned by members of The Move-ment, which is a group of NC State students who facilitate workshops that achieve to prevent sexual and relationship violence (www.ncsu.edu/themovement); this attracted at-tention from some students who did not know or hadn’t heard about the group. But perhaps the table that had triv-ia-like questions about sex gained the most interest; people were intrigued at note cards that contained facts that awed, amazed, and in some cases, shocked as some ran to inform their friends of what they had just learned. Pamphlets and other resources were available for students to pick up to help educate them about other aspects of sexual health. At the conclusion of the event, Fusion also showed people dance moves that were somewhat complex, but did little to stop those who were eager to learn in hopes of getting back into habit, a healthy habit that is.

ONE-SIDED DIVERSITY>>>>> See Pg. 3

2 | november 4, 2009 nubian message

gye nyame“except for God”

A symbol of the supremacy of God. This unique and beautiful symbol is ubiquitous in Ghana. It is by far the most popular for use in decoration, a reflection on the deeply religious character of the Ghanian people.Official symbol for the Nubian Message.

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Photos from the week

Among the programs for Alpha Week was “Bowling for Babies” which was held on Wednesday. A portion of the proceeds was donated to the March of Dimes | DEMI OLUBANWO

Members of the audience are entertained by local comedians the the first Eta O HOuse of Laughs which was held on Thursday in Talley Student Center | DEMI OLUBANWO

Alpha Week 2009

On Tuesday, October 27, 2009, the Eta Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Lamb-da Pi Chi Sorority Inc. hosted a program entitled “UP-DATE ME.” The purpose of the program was to show college students the depth and usefulness of online “branding” and making a positive image for yourself on the web. The panelists included Phil Buckley, Morgan Siem, and Jeremy Smith. One thing that the panelists stressed was creating an online brand so that you can easily be found on the Internet. This includes your Face-book, Twitter, the dying Myspace, and one from a group that I had never heard of before the meeting, Linkedin. Linkedin is a site dedicated to creating connections be-tween the employer and the job hunters or employees.

Another thing the panelists stressed was flooding your brand with positive images and things to make a pos-sible employer, scouring the web for information on you, see you in a good light. They also gave good advice on ways to make you stand out. They said making a video resume and focusing less on a resume and more on mak-ing yourself appear to be a well-rounded person in this 21st century are good ways to stand out. As we go fur-ther into the future the world is switching from a more paper based communication to a more online based way of communication. Googling is a growing way that em-ployers find out who you are and what you stand for, so making sure that you have a good image on the web is imperative to your success in corporate America. There are, however, positive and negative things related to you making a Facebook profile or Twitter account. It gives you one more thing that you have to make sure you are on top of. Making sure people don’t tag you in unflatter-ing pictures. Making sure your statuses are boss friendly or “possible employer” friendly. Make a good name for yourself and make sure it stays good. Keep your eyes open to anything that can affect your future. Thanks to the Eta Omicron chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and the Lambda Pi Chi Sorority Inc. for a great program.

Robert Marshall | Arts & Entertainment

nubian message november 4, 2009 | 3Opinions

inspirational quotes of the week

“our greatness, our talent has never been the question. it’s been a matter of grappling for control over what we do.”

SPIKE LEE

Hopeless CitiesHenry Goodson | Culture

When people often discuss issues in cities like Durham or Fayetteville, there is a word (or sentiment) that often comes up: hopelessness. In some cities, it seems like no matter what is proposed, or what promises are made, things never get better. It isn’t even an issue of making things perfect, in some places it feels as if things have always been and always will be miserable.

In fact, the state of North Carolina has its very own example of great expecta-tions gone awry with city planning and reform: Soul city. Soul City was conceived as a hopeful experiment in African American capitalism led by activist Floyd McKissick. The city was (and still is) located between Manson and Warrenton in Warren County. Early on, the city’s development was financed by federal loans and grants totaling around $31 million between 1971 and 1978. The money was successfully put to use early on and a solid infrastructure was built for the city, but the jobs that are so crucial to any city’s development did not come as city planners had hoped.

Much of the problems with attracting jobs were strongly related with the nega-tive press that had arisen from how Soul City’s federal funds were being invested. McKissick agreed to an independent audit of the way of the funds were being invested and the audit found few instances of mismanagement. However, the year-long audit cast a dark cloud over the city economically and the difficulties were worsened by the poor economic climate that the entire country was dealing with in the late 1970’s. Despite the results of the audit, negative press continued to surround the Soul City, and The Housing and Urban Development withdrew funding in 1980.

In a lot of ways, the early history of Soul City is a prime example of all the things that make citizens nervous about efforts to improve living conditions for African Americans or to try new things to bring positive change. Usually, most seem to believe, political pressure and poor circumstances will keep any substan-

tial positive change from happening. This is not always the case however. Newark, New Jersey has long held a repu-

tation as one of the most dangerous, miserable cities in the entire United States. But under the leadership of Mayor Corey Booker and other community leaders, things have undeniably gotten better. Between 2006 and 2008, murders, rapes, and auto thefts all dropped by at least 20 percent. Some of them , robberies in particular, have risen since the recession has set in, but overall almost all crimes are down since Mayor Booker came into office.

Much of the success has been because of an increase of law enforcement and community oriented programs. A small part of it has also been from Mayor Booker’s personal commitment to the cause of improving Newark, as he in the past patrolled the Newark streets with his security team as early as 4 a.m.

This is not to suggest that Newark is now some sort of utopia, the city is still suffering from high unemployment (the city had 13.5% unemployment in May) and the crime rate is still much higher than one would prefer it to be. Still, the fact that less people are being senselessly killed or robbed is certainly a step in the right direction.

Any city can improve, even Newark, Durham, or Fayetteville with the right leadership and the cooperation of the citizens of the city. Even Soul City has enjoyed some improvements that have added some jobs for its couple of hundred residents and support such as a preschool and some recreational facilities. No matter how dire the situation, cities are not simply cursed to be failures forever. With effort and commitment things can improve.

One -Sided DiversityCJ Guoin | Opinions

Since coming to college here, I have heard at so many programs and events, the concepts of diversity. I have heard that we are supposed to step outside the box and meet people of other cultures, races, etc. I have heard that we won’t make it in this world, if we surround ourselves with one group of people, because the world is not just black or white. While that is indeed true, I feel that there are several issues that I have with these ideas. It seems that some groups of people are told more to be diverse, than others. It seems that diversity seems to have certain boundaries. There are several issues that I would like to figure out when it comes to diversity.

The first thing is, why does it seem as if minorities are the only ones who are urged to be diverse? Why is it such a problem, when blacks and Hispanics go to events that are predominately of their respected races? However, we never seem to question why whites only go to events where they are predominately represented. I guess we can’t really answer that question, being that most of the campuses events are tailored specifically for the majority. Why don’t we urge whites to at-tend events thrown by minority groups, just as we urge minorities to attend events in which they aren’t the majority? It seems like there are many events that happen on campus, where the main focus is catering to one group. For example, let’s take a look at Friday Fest. Last year, Friday Fest featured Boyz II Men, Who’s Bad, and Little Brother. This year, it featured Josh Gracin and Chuck Wicks. Even though the concept of switching it up every year is good, why not for once mix it up and give something that caters to everybody equally. It also seems that sometimes people like to complain when minorities hang out in groups together, but it is ok when whites sit together. Being black or Hispanic, doesn’t mean we have the same ideas, values, and characteristics just because we are all minorities. Everybody here at NC State comes from different places all over the world. There are hardly any two people here who are the same. If we are so “color blind” as we like to say, why does it matter if we talk to someone who is black or white? We are supposed to be individuals right?

Another thing that I have issues with is this thought of predominately minor-ity colleges and universities being wrong. There’s always this statement about the world not being black or white. Well then if that’s the case, why is it ok for us to have Predominantly White Instiutions, but so wrong for us to have Historically

Black Colleges/Universities? Yes, there are a variety of races who go here, but there are also a variety of races at those schools as well. I mean just recently, the valedictorian of Morehouse was a white male. So what is the big difference? So why is it ok for whites to go to a predominately white school, and not ok for mi-norities to go to schools with people who look like them? Why does it seem that the world gives you more opportunities when you go to a school of the majority? And why does it seem that we think that the more interaction we have with the majority equals the amount of success that we will have? Let’s also take a look at the population of NC State. North Carolina State University is a state funded school. This is a school in which the taxpayers of North Carolina help to fund. That is why we pay in-state tuition. So isn’t it strange that a school which the state pays for doesn’t even reflect the population of the state itself. African Americans make up 21.6 percent of North Carolina’s population, but only 7 percent of NC State’s population. Hispanics make up 7 percent of the population, but only 3 percent here. However, when you look at the White population, it’s 73 percent statewide and here at this wonderful school. Even when you take into account age of the school, the numbers don’t add up. There is a huge issue in this situation.

Finally, why does it seem that minorities are always grouped, more so than the majority? All black people don’t think the same, and all Hispanics don’t think the same. We don’t all like the same music, like the same foods, or think the same way. It’s weird that Caucasians seem to consider themselves individuals, but see minorities as just another person of their race. We are all different in our own way, and we should be valued for our different opinions and ideas. That is why I don’t see the big deal about picking and choosing who we are supposed to talk to. I don’t feel that we should limit who we talk to. I feel that another African American can give me another way of thinking, just like a white person can. If we really don’t see color anymore as we say that we do, why can’t we just talk to everybody, whether they be our own color or another color. There shouldn’t be any consequences for talking to somebody of my own race, just as there shouldn’t be specific rewards just to talk to someone of a different race. Every person is an individual and we can learn something from everybody.

I feel that diversity is very beneficial to our society. However, the problem with diversity is that it seems to only be important to some people more than others. I feel that if you’re going to urge one group of people to be diverse, you should urge everyone to be diverse. Diversity will not work if everyone does not participate.

4 | november 4, 2009 nubian messageCulture

Dear Nubian, I’m very interested in joining a fraternity on campus. I’ve wanted to be a member of this organization since high school. My grandfather, my father, and two

of my uncles are members of this fraternity, so I feel like I should join too. Don’t get me wrong, I care about service and all that stuff too. Please tell me how to get into one of these organizations, because I want it bad.

Sincerely,

Legacy

Dear Legacy, I think the most important thing you need to do before joining this fraternity is evaluate your reasons for wanting membership. You should never join a

specific fraternity or any fraternity for that matter just to fit in with your family. Be your own person! If you have not gone the extra mile to try to learn more about this fraternity, its purpose, platforms, and initiatives, in addition to doing research on other fraternities to see what they have to offer, then you’re probably not ready to make this decision.

With Greek life, once you join an organization, you are a permanent member, and that organization’s name will always be attached to yours. Changing your mind and deciding to be apart of a different organization is not an option, so make sure that your first choice is the right one.

When seeking membership in these organizations, the best way to get members to notice you is by standing out to them through your grades and your leadership. You may have a family full of members in this fraternity, but that doesn’t make you qualified to join as well. The men of these fraternities want to see that YOU, not your relatives, are intelligent and able to stand out amongst your peers. By maintaining good grades and being active in both campus organizations and your community, you will definitely catch the eye of the men within the organization.

It’s also important to be sincere. I’m not one to judge, but when you say you care about service and “all that stuff,” it sounds to me like community service is the last reason why you want to be a member. Many fraternities were founded for the purpose of serving the community, specifically the traditionally African American fraternities, so if you’re going into these organizations without a true commitment to serve your community through volunteering and philanthropy, you will be in for a rude awakening, because “stepping” and “wearing letters,” two of the most common things associated with African American Greeks, are actually the least important things to their organizations.

During your pursuit to Greekdom, keep in mind that knowledge is power. The more you know about this organization and yourself, the more you will be able to make an informed decision.

Sincerely,

Nubian Queen

Advice Column

Movies This WeekOpening This Week Box Office Top 10 Campus CinemaNovember 6:

A Christmas CarolThe Fourth KindPrecious: Based on the Novel “Push” by SapphireThe BoxThe Men Who Stare at Goats

1. This Is Is2. Paranormal Activity3. Law Abiding Citizen4. Couples Retreat5. Where the Wild Things Are6. Saw VI7. Astro Boy8. The Stepfather9. Cirque Du Freak10. Amelia

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood PrinceThursday (9 p.m.) Friday (7 p.m. & 11.59 p.m.) Saturday (10 p.m.) Sunday (7 p.m.)

MoonThursday (7 p.m.) Friday (10 p.m.) Sunday (10 p.m.)

Che (Part 1) - FREE Satuday (7 p.m.)

Toms Shoes Documentary - FREEMonday (7 p.m.)

Black Alumni Society Homecoming Week ScheduleThursday:30th Anniversary Celebration and

Distinguished Alumni - Legacy Banquet at the Park Alumni Center. 7:00pm-9:00pm. Sign-up at http://www.alumni.ncsu.edu/events/event.php?id=1913

Friday:Inaugural Golf Outing at the

new Lonnie Poole Golf Course located on the Centennial Cam-pus. Registration limited to 40 participants. $70/75 registration fee includes cart and green fees, range balls and boxed lunch. Registration deadline extended to Friday Oct 30th. Sign-up at http://www.alumni.ncsu.edu/events/event.php?id=1914

Guest Welcome at the Crab-tree Embassy Suites (Host Ho-tel). 4700 Creedmoor Road, Ra-

leigh, NC. 3:00pm.

Homecoming Parade on Hillsborough Street. 6:00pm.

Group Reunions. 7:00pm.Family Fun Night at the

Witherspoon Student Center Sankofa Room. 7:00pm

NCSU Greeks United and Varsity Club Social at the North Italian Chophouse, 8311 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh, NC. Get your tickets at http://www.alumni.ncsu.edu/events/event.php?id=1915

Saturday:Homecoming Tailgate at the RBC Center West Terrace.

10:30am. Get your tailgate tickets at http://www.alumni.ncsu.edu/events/event.php?id=1779

Football Game. Maryland vs. NCSU at Carter-Finley Stadium, 1:00pm. Get your game tickets at http://www.alumni.ncsu.edu/events/event.php?id=1779

Group Reunions. 7:00pm.Homecoming Bash @ Oliver Twist, 8111 Creedmoor Rd, Ra-

leigh NC. Sponsored by Blue Goose, Velvet Entertainment and the Black Alumni Society. 10:00pm-2:00am. Get your tickets at http://www.ncsublackalumni.org/homecoming/registration.html