It’s a chilly Monday night in mid December on the campus of Bowling Green State University. BGSU appears to be a ghost town.
Many students are crammed inside the campus library. 24 hour quiet hours have been mandated in all dorms and students have their heads buried in various books.
This is the time of the year where seats tend to be filled in classrooms across campus. This constitutes the most stressful time of the semester- finals.
There are five students studying in the Harshman- Chapman lab. A young woman sighs with frustration as she flips a page in her text book.
The lab door swings open and a female standing 4’11’’ walks in. She is wearing red slippers, BGSU brown & orange pajama pants and a blue shirt. Carrying her SpongeBob backpack, she flicks her brunette hair with blond streaks away from her face as she finds her studying destination.
Marie Krupienski, a sophomore student at Bowling Green State University majoring in Tourism, takes a seat at a large table. The younger of two children, she is originally from the east side of Cleveland and is a Mentor High School graduate.
She rustles through her backpack and pulls out neatly organized notes and an Econ textbook that has sections divided by tabs.
“Ugh,” sighs Krupienski. “I dread and love this time of the year. First off, it’s exam week, but at least it’s Christmas season.”
Krupienski is like every other student on campus during this period, except she is taking 18 credit hours and; not to mention, a former Rocket. “Yeah, I’m taking so many credit hours because I lost some when I transferred here from the University of Toledo,” says Krupienski.
Studying, as Krupienski puts it, is essential during exam time. But she also makes time for leisure activities to alleviate the stress exam week can cause the average student.
“I was swimming at the rec and performed ab workouts before I came here,” exclaims Krupienski. “And I also played some Chinese ping pong in Kreisher with a couple of friends.”
“Paralyzer” by Finger Eleven suddenly plays through her cell phone. She answers the call and engages in a ten minute conversation. “Yeah, you didn’t know!” says an animated Krupienski. “I had to get rid of it.”
Krupienski ends her call and puts on her glasses, while pulling a study guide out of a folder. She is focused.
“Yeah that is another thing I did to prepare for finals,” says Krupienski who is referring to her last phone call. “I had to get rid of Facebook. It wasted my time and I could spend that hour doing something productive.”
Krupienski takes a sip of her Aquafina before getting up to access a computer.
“You know looking at a computer screen makes you tired due to rays or something it gives off,” she says. “That’s why you gotta wear glasses because it blocks the rays. That way you won’t be tired studying.”
She starts to type the facebook url address, but then remembers her account is cancelled.
“See?,” she says. “Facebook is addictive.”
She then logs onto the BGSU website to check her email. She logs off the computer after checking her email and walks back to her original seat.
“There are various studying methods I have,” says Krupienski. “These are studying habits I carrying with me for all tests- not just for finals.”
When looking at her textbook, one would notice tabs placed on the side and on the top. “The tabs on the top means I still need to read that section and tabs on the side mean I have already finished it,” clarified Krupienski.
In addition to tabs being there, one would notice each are a different color. “I color code every section for order,” she says.
She then pulls out a stick of spearmint gum. “Would you like a piece?” she asks. “Studies say spearmint gum helps your thinking because it calms your nerves.”
Several students walk in and out of the lab at this point. “I usually do not study in the lab because I am always focused on the door,” laughs Krupienski. “But with printer making noise and people walking through, it creates a little bit of noise.
Krupienski is fond of noise. “You hate it when it’s too quiet,” she says. “It can be quiet, but not too quiet.”
She pulls out another notebook from her backpack and reviews some material. She then begins to write in it.
“I have a separate notebook where I recopy all my notes,” says Krupienski. “It’s a great way to study because it gets into your head better when you rewrite them.”
Sarah Sperling, a 3rd year student who is a Recreation Major and Environmental Education Minor, is a close friend of Krupienski and confirms her friend Maria as having good study habits.
"I don't see Maria as being a book worm or studying continually, because she has to be involved in some physical or social activity at all times,” says Sperling. “Yet, when it comes right down to it, she can sit down, focus, and study productively. She usually does better when she has a study partner or partners."
Krupienski says she and Sperling motivate each other during exam which goes a long way. They each go into an exam mentally prepared due to encouragement they receive from each other.
Krupienski, like many other college students, will have to use her study skills to good use to make it through this stressful period. But with the many study methods she has, getting through exam week will be a breeze.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
BGSU Senior Day
Senior Day took place Friday, November 2, 2007. College seniors are now probably scratching their heads wondering why they were not honored, but it should be clarified that Senior Day recognized the contributions of the Bowling Green State University Football team’s senior players.
Senior day is a special moment for many. It highlights the achievements of the seasoned veterans on BG’s football team.
The BGSU Falcon football team has a core of seniors who continue to rear the younger players into the team leaders they will soon become. Seniors of the Falcon Football team were honored during their game with Akron, which they won 44 to 20.
Many people may question the need of Senior Day. Mike Burtch, staff assistant for the Falcon Football team, has watched these young men progress into the football players many see before them. Before he was a staff assistant, Mike Burtch spent his Undergrad years as team manager for the team.
“Senior Day is a special moment. It gives people, fans, families, and other on-lookers a chance to admire the athletic or academic accomplishments of the athletes,” said Burtch. It also can give those being honored a chance to stick out their chests and be proud of what they’ve done.”
Giovanni Fillari, a junior football player for the Falcons, agrees Senior Day is a very important day for all.
“As a younger player, the seniors of the team have done a great deal for me on and off the field,” said Fillari. “There are a small group of seniors, but all of them have had a hand in lending knowledge to me and the rest of the team. They have showed me what a "Falcon" is by carrying themselves with Pride and Honor in everything theydo. I hope that younger people will look at me the way I look up to the current seniors.”
Many students who were athletes in high school can remember the pride they felt when they were honored for senior day. It displays the years of dedication one gives to the sport, in addition to homework and other external factors that build stress for the young athlete.
Khalafani Rice, former player for the Falcon football team, admired the seniors for their dedication to the sport.
“They know their purpose and performed their job to the best of their ability day in and day out,” said Rice. “Some were motivating and help keep you mentally tough for the game.”
Seniors can be seen as survivors. They battled to keep good grades, a good disciplinary standing, and a spot on the team.
They inevitably are the last ones standing and senior day recognizes this valuable attribute.
Burtch has been around the football team for a little more than 6 years and has seen some players not make it to their senior year.
“I have seen so many football players come and go. Not everyone that goes out as a freshman makes it to their senior year,” said Burtch. “Those that do have learned how to go through some ups and downs that life can bring. Most of them will not be able to go on playing the sport after their career is over so they realize how much more to life there is outside the arena or stadium.
Burtch further elaborates, “Many have matured, physically as well as mentally, with those experiences. There are some that come in, not respecting the game and when they leave; you can see a change in their attitude because of how much work they put in.”
Fillari knows for certain the seniors have a lasting impact on both younger player and the game.
“I have learned to lead by example from the seniors,” said Fallari. “Many people can talk a good game and say that they will do something, but you aren't doing much of anything until it is done. A good example is senior Sean O'Drobinak who plays DT. He stopped a late 4th quarter rally on 4th down during the game @ Eastern Michigan Friday night. We would not know the outcome if it wasn't for him. This was only one example of numerous ones that seniors have made throughout my tenure as a Falcon.”
Many may view Senior Day as just a regular day to give recognition to seniors of a particular sport. But many should view that day as compilation of the many years of blood, sweat and tears these players dedicated to their sport.
Fillari says, “Once I am a senior, I plan to show the younger people that there is more to being a Falcon football player that being a good athlete on the field. It is about being respectable and responsible off the field. Decisions are always to be made in thecollege life, and I hope to help younger kids make the better ones once they are brought to a tough decision.”
Senior day is a special moment for many. It highlights the achievements of the seasoned veterans on BG’s football team.
The BGSU Falcon football team has a core of seniors who continue to rear the younger players into the team leaders they will soon become. Seniors of the Falcon Football team were honored during their game with Akron, which they won 44 to 20.
Many people may question the need of Senior Day. Mike Burtch, staff assistant for the Falcon Football team, has watched these young men progress into the football players many see before them. Before he was a staff assistant, Mike Burtch spent his Undergrad years as team manager for the team.
“Senior Day is a special moment. It gives people, fans, families, and other on-lookers a chance to admire the athletic or academic accomplishments of the athletes,” said Burtch. It also can give those being honored a chance to stick out their chests and be proud of what they’ve done.”
Giovanni Fillari, a junior football player for the Falcons, agrees Senior Day is a very important day for all.
“As a younger player, the seniors of the team have done a great deal for me on and off the field,” said Fillari. “There are a small group of seniors, but all of them have had a hand in lending knowledge to me and the rest of the team. They have showed me what a "Falcon" is by carrying themselves with Pride and Honor in everything theydo. I hope that younger people will look at me the way I look up to the current seniors.”
Many students who were athletes in high school can remember the pride they felt when they were honored for senior day. It displays the years of dedication one gives to the sport, in addition to homework and other external factors that build stress for the young athlete.
Khalafani Rice, former player for the Falcon football team, admired the seniors for their dedication to the sport.
“They know their purpose and performed their job to the best of their ability day in and day out,” said Rice. “Some were motivating and help keep you mentally tough for the game.”
Seniors can be seen as survivors. They battled to keep good grades, a good disciplinary standing, and a spot on the team.
They inevitably are the last ones standing and senior day recognizes this valuable attribute.
Burtch has been around the football team for a little more than 6 years and has seen some players not make it to their senior year.
“I have seen so many football players come and go. Not everyone that goes out as a freshman makes it to their senior year,” said Burtch. “Those that do have learned how to go through some ups and downs that life can bring. Most of them will not be able to go on playing the sport after their career is over so they realize how much more to life there is outside the arena or stadium.
Burtch further elaborates, “Many have matured, physically as well as mentally, with those experiences. There are some that come in, not respecting the game and when they leave; you can see a change in their attitude because of how much work they put in.”
Fillari knows for certain the seniors have a lasting impact on both younger player and the game.
“I have learned to lead by example from the seniors,” said Fallari. “Many people can talk a good game and say that they will do something, but you aren't doing much of anything until it is done. A good example is senior Sean O'Drobinak who plays DT. He stopped a late 4th quarter rally on 4th down during the game @ Eastern Michigan Friday night. We would not know the outcome if it wasn't for him. This was only one example of numerous ones that seniors have made throughout my tenure as a Falcon.”
Many may view Senior Day as just a regular day to give recognition to seniors of a particular sport. But many should view that day as compilation of the many years of blood, sweat and tears these players dedicated to their sport.
Fillari says, “Once I am a senior, I plan to show the younger people that there is more to being a Falcon football player that being a good athlete on the field. It is about being respectable and responsible off the field. Decisions are always to be made in thecollege life, and I hope to help younger kids make the better ones once they are brought to a tough decision.”
Scrap Metal Valuable?
Crimes occur everyday; especially theft. People will steal anything from a stick of gum to an automobile.
But people have now upgraded to a new desirable item. What is it you ask?
Well, this item comes in the form of scrap metal. Don’t laugh, this is a serious matter.
This new criminal trend has many people going to extreme lows. For instance, three men, James Nelson, Richard Pitts and John Kuhn were caught stealing a flag pole from Mount Carmel Cemetery’s Veterans’ Memorial in Toledo, Ohio in hopes of trading in their stolen treasure at a scrap yard for an undisclosed sum of money.
According to the Toledo Blade, these men damaged two nearby monuments in the process of sawing the flag pole.
Little do people know; scrap metal is big business and is not just in the city of Toledo, nor is relegated to the borders of the U.S. Scrap metal is global and even the automobile you drive could contain metal that was stolen, exchanged for profit, sent overseas for another profit, and then used to produce it.
13abc.com states nothing is off limits: school construction sites, utility companies, cemeteries and businesses. Losses are passed along to consumers and neighborhoods are left to deteriorate.
According to SanduskyRegister.com, copper, aluminum, stainless steel and brass are valuable metals. This site states Steve Lichtcsein, owner of Sandusky Steel & Supply, says, “Copper sells for more than $2 per pound, compared to 50 cents a pound nearly 20 years ago.”
As said before, something this minor is major economics. John Waunick, an attorney from Anspach Meeks Ellenberger LLP Law Firm, says when one hears about a flag pole being stolen to be used as scrap metal, you know this situation is not small potatoes… it’s big business.
“It’s the law of supply and demand,” said Waunick. “It is being generated by both China and India. The price on the open market is so high right now it’s worth the effort [by criminals].”
Individuals will go through any means to get this valuable resource. Captain Diana Ruiz-Krause, commander of the Personal and Public Affairs Bureau of the Toledo Police Department, agrees with this analysis, but is also concerned about the effect this crime is having on neighborhoods.
“Metal prices are very high and they take them to scrap yards,” says Ruiz-Krauz.
“People will go to abandoned houses or even houses that are not abandoned, especially in older neighborhoods, and take off its aluminum siding. This has proven to be very detrimental to neighborhoods as community value goes way down.”
Sgt. Joel Squadrito of the Ft. Wayne police department agrees. According to 13abc.com, Squadrito asserts "If you live in that neighborhood and two or four houses become vacant and they become condemned, whatever the case may bring, it breaks down the neighborhood and property value."
“I live in Perrysburg and we recycle,” said Waunick. “Don’t be surprised if you find that someone has been rummaging through your recyclables. They take what they find and go to a scrap yard.”
Many may wonder if it is really worth the effort to steal from a cemetery just to make some money. Bryan McGannon, director of Media Relations & Marketing for the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc., which is a trade association representing about 3,500 scrapyards across the nation, states the prices for these metals are so high right now.
“Some metals like copper are selling for about 3 times what they were selling for 2 years ago,” said McGannon. “While I can't get into the mind of a criminal, metals are just another item that has value that is readily available and frequently not secured or locked up.”
Melanie Nied, a law firm receptionist at Anspauch Meeks Ellenberger LLP, feels there may be another reason some individuals do this crime.
“People need money for habits they have,” said Nied. “It may be to support a drug habit.”
According to Sandusky Register.com, Capt. Paul Sigsworth of the Erie Country Sheriff’s Office agrees that drugs may be a factor.
“Many thefts are motivated by drug habits,” said Sigsworth. “It’s gotten worse lately because of heroin usage.”
Drugs also happened to be a reason for the flagpole incident.
According to the Toledo Blade, Denise Ann Dartt, a Lucas County Common Pleas Court judge, sentenced Kuhn to one year in prison August 8, 2007 after he pleaded no contest to felony vandalism. Judge Dartt imposed the maximum sentence after Kuhn asked that he be given time in prison to kick his drug addiction.
Law enforcement and scrap yards are trying various methods to combat this problem. Police officers make unannounced visits while scrap yard use a security system to keep tabs customers.
According to 13abc.com, as officers make unannounced visits to scrap yards, Sgt. Joe Heffernan of the Toledo Police department says, “We want to make sure one person comes in, they have valid government issued ID, positively identify that person, identify what the property is and where it came from.”
13abc.com further states R&M Recycling relies on a computerized security system to keep tabs on its customers and their purchases. R&M's David Willet says, "Anyone that comes into the yard is on camera 24 hours a day and in our computer we have signatures that are required, ID required. So that's all on file."
Businesses that don't play by the rules face being shut down by code enforcement officers.
According to freep.com, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy is trying to raise private money to pay for two full-time prosecutors devoted to pursuing cases of scrap metal theft. She also is planning to meet with Wayne County Circuit Court judges to urge tougher sentences on scrap metal theft, which is a misdemeanor.
The global economy may encourage crimes such as these to be committed. Something as small stealing scrap metal is generating a billion dollar market.
With the damage done to public lighting, homes and businesses from thieves looking to strip them of copper and other metals for sale, Worthy said such crimes must be punished more harshly.
But John Waunick said it best… it’s big business.
But people have now upgraded to a new desirable item. What is it you ask?
Well, this item comes in the form of scrap metal. Don’t laugh, this is a serious matter.
This new criminal trend has many people going to extreme lows. For instance, three men, James Nelson, Richard Pitts and John Kuhn were caught stealing a flag pole from Mount Carmel Cemetery’s Veterans’ Memorial in Toledo, Ohio in hopes of trading in their stolen treasure at a scrap yard for an undisclosed sum of money.
According to the Toledo Blade, these men damaged two nearby monuments in the process of sawing the flag pole.
Little do people know; scrap metal is big business and is not just in the city of Toledo, nor is relegated to the borders of the U.S. Scrap metal is global and even the automobile you drive could contain metal that was stolen, exchanged for profit, sent overseas for another profit, and then used to produce it.
13abc.com states nothing is off limits: school construction sites, utility companies, cemeteries and businesses. Losses are passed along to consumers and neighborhoods are left to deteriorate.
According to SanduskyRegister.com, copper, aluminum, stainless steel and brass are valuable metals. This site states Steve Lichtcsein, owner of Sandusky Steel & Supply, says, “Copper sells for more than $2 per pound, compared to 50 cents a pound nearly 20 years ago.”
As said before, something this minor is major economics. John Waunick, an attorney from Anspach Meeks Ellenberger LLP Law Firm, says when one hears about a flag pole being stolen to be used as scrap metal, you know this situation is not small potatoes… it’s big business.
“It’s the law of supply and demand,” said Waunick. “It is being generated by both China and India. The price on the open market is so high right now it’s worth the effort [by criminals].”
Individuals will go through any means to get this valuable resource. Captain Diana Ruiz-Krause, commander of the Personal and Public Affairs Bureau of the Toledo Police Department, agrees with this analysis, but is also concerned about the effect this crime is having on neighborhoods.
“Metal prices are very high and they take them to scrap yards,” says Ruiz-Krauz.
“People will go to abandoned houses or even houses that are not abandoned, especially in older neighborhoods, and take off its aluminum siding. This has proven to be very detrimental to neighborhoods as community value goes way down.”
Sgt. Joel Squadrito of the Ft. Wayne police department agrees. According to 13abc.com, Squadrito asserts "If you live in that neighborhood and two or four houses become vacant and they become condemned, whatever the case may bring, it breaks down the neighborhood and property value."
“I live in Perrysburg and we recycle,” said Waunick. “Don’t be surprised if you find that someone has been rummaging through your recyclables. They take what they find and go to a scrap yard.”
Many may wonder if it is really worth the effort to steal from a cemetery just to make some money. Bryan McGannon, director of Media Relations & Marketing for the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc., which is a trade association representing about 3,500 scrapyards across the nation, states the prices for these metals are so high right now.
“Some metals like copper are selling for about 3 times what they were selling for 2 years ago,” said McGannon. “While I can't get into the mind of a criminal, metals are just another item that has value that is readily available and frequently not secured or locked up.”
Melanie Nied, a law firm receptionist at Anspauch Meeks Ellenberger LLP, feels there may be another reason some individuals do this crime.
“People need money for habits they have,” said Nied. “It may be to support a drug habit.”
According to Sandusky Register.com, Capt. Paul Sigsworth of the Erie Country Sheriff’s Office agrees that drugs may be a factor.
“Many thefts are motivated by drug habits,” said Sigsworth. “It’s gotten worse lately because of heroin usage.”
Drugs also happened to be a reason for the flagpole incident.
According to the Toledo Blade, Denise Ann Dartt, a Lucas County Common Pleas Court judge, sentenced Kuhn to one year in prison August 8, 2007 after he pleaded no contest to felony vandalism. Judge Dartt imposed the maximum sentence after Kuhn asked that he be given time in prison to kick his drug addiction.
Law enforcement and scrap yards are trying various methods to combat this problem. Police officers make unannounced visits while scrap yard use a security system to keep tabs customers.
According to 13abc.com, as officers make unannounced visits to scrap yards, Sgt. Joe Heffernan of the Toledo Police department says, “We want to make sure one person comes in, they have valid government issued ID, positively identify that person, identify what the property is and where it came from.”
13abc.com further states R&M Recycling relies on a computerized security system to keep tabs on its customers and their purchases. R&M's David Willet says, "Anyone that comes into the yard is on camera 24 hours a day and in our computer we have signatures that are required, ID required. So that's all on file."
Businesses that don't play by the rules face being shut down by code enforcement officers.
According to freep.com, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy is trying to raise private money to pay for two full-time prosecutors devoted to pursuing cases of scrap metal theft. She also is planning to meet with Wayne County Circuit Court judges to urge tougher sentences on scrap metal theft, which is a misdemeanor.
The global economy may encourage crimes such as these to be committed. Something as small stealing scrap metal is generating a billion dollar market.
With the damage done to public lighting, homes and businesses from thieves looking to strip them of copper and other metals for sale, Worthy said such crimes must be punished more harshly.
But John Waunick said it best… it’s big business.
It Takes a Village
How would one feel if college students played a role in rearing one’s child? No wait, please come back!
Please do not flip the page because college students are not as incompetent as many may believe. Parents need not worry about their sons or daughters acquiring the skill to play beer pong.
But let’s take it a step further. How would one feel if campus Greeks played a role in rearing one’s child? No, this is not a joke; it is a serious question.
The mere thought of college students raising a community of kids may send shivers down a parent’s spine. The stigma associated with college students is not praiseworthy; especially amongst Greeks.
But for Gwen Whitlock, a native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, bringing her two teenage daughters to Alpha Kappa Alpha’s sponsored “It Takes A Village” has been worthwhile. “I must say that I am impressed,” said Whitlock, who is a resident of Bowling Green, OH.
Held in Bowen Thompson Student Union room 308 on September 8, 2007, It Takes A Village featured various activities for children ranging in the ages from toddlers to teenagers. Among the activities for the children was the option for boys to receive a haircut and girls to have their hair braided.
Music was played to provide a soothing atmosphere and food was provided to quell the children’s appetite. Not to mention the children’s laughter was also soothing to the ears.
When asked how she learned of the program, Whitlock replied, “I have a friend who happens to be a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. I attend church with her at Indiana Missionary Baptist Church and she informed me of this program.”
Whitlock further added, “I have several family members who are AKA and I am familiar with the things they do in the community.”
If there were any indication of the Greek stereotypes, the Iota Iota chapter of AKA successfully dispelled them. No true colors were exposed, but the bright white smiles of children in the room, and of course pink and green.
The kids enjoyed working with crafts. A table of young girls was putting together gummy bears with tooth picks.
“This here is my BFF,” exclaimed a young girl who was referring to a young girl sitting next to her. BFF is an acronym for “best friends forever”.
The child was the most valuable resources at ITAV. AKA sorority members were very attentive of the children’s needs.
Kelli Brown, president of Iota Iota chapter, was pleased with the turnout of the program. There were many children as well as Bowling Green State University students who were in attendance.
Brown proclaims one of the main objectives of the program is to mentor young children. “We’re trying to bring BG area black children here to interact with one another. This is a mentoring program. We inspire kids in the community and are positive role models for them,” she said.
Whitlock’s two daughters, who were in attendance, happen to be identical twins. Shleah and Shreah are sophomores who attend Bowling Green High School and will turn 16-years-old this November.
Both girls enjoyed themselves at the event. “It was okay meeting some new people,” said Shreah.
Shleah responded, “There are a lot of activities for us. I made a string wolf.”
When asked what they would be doing if she was not in attendance at ITAV, Shreah responded, “I would be playing with my three kittens.” She was referring to her Giga pet.
Shleah responded, “I would be tending to the chickens at home.”
The “It Takes a Village” concept is an old African proverb. Alpha Kappa Alpha stresses the importance of this concept for black children.
Hillary Rodham Clinton chose this title for a book she wrote in 1996. Clinton proclaims that children will thrive only if their families thrive and if the whole society cares enough to provide for them.
The meaning of the event served an actual purpose than the event itself. It was not done to fulfill a community service requirement.
The program taught kids they can find solace within the black community. They were exposed to resources they may have never known before.
Whether the children realize it or not, they learned values that will stay with them for the rest of their life. Helping others will be a value that will be instilled in them for a lifetime.
Founded on December 4, 1972, the chapter of Iota Iota has been dedicated to promoting quality education, uplifting the black family, inspiring those to make healthy choices and economic empowerment. Alpha Kappa Alpha is a college based organization striving to organize a channel - an organization - established to promote unity.
Those who may want to involve themselves in this program may contact Kelli Brown at krbrown@bgnet.bgsu.edu
Please do not flip the page because college students are not as incompetent as many may believe. Parents need not worry about their sons or daughters acquiring the skill to play beer pong.
But let’s take it a step further. How would one feel if campus Greeks played a role in rearing one’s child? No, this is not a joke; it is a serious question.
The mere thought of college students raising a community of kids may send shivers down a parent’s spine. The stigma associated with college students is not praiseworthy; especially amongst Greeks.
But for Gwen Whitlock, a native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, bringing her two teenage daughters to Alpha Kappa Alpha’s sponsored “It Takes A Village” has been worthwhile. “I must say that I am impressed,” said Whitlock, who is a resident of Bowling Green, OH.
Held in Bowen Thompson Student Union room 308 on September 8, 2007, It Takes A Village featured various activities for children ranging in the ages from toddlers to teenagers. Among the activities for the children was the option for boys to receive a haircut and girls to have their hair braided.
Music was played to provide a soothing atmosphere and food was provided to quell the children’s appetite. Not to mention the children’s laughter was also soothing to the ears.
When asked how she learned of the program, Whitlock replied, “I have a friend who happens to be a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. I attend church with her at Indiana Missionary Baptist Church and she informed me of this program.”
Whitlock further added, “I have several family members who are AKA and I am familiar with the things they do in the community.”
If there were any indication of the Greek stereotypes, the Iota Iota chapter of AKA successfully dispelled them. No true colors were exposed, but the bright white smiles of children in the room, and of course pink and green.
The kids enjoyed working with crafts. A table of young girls was putting together gummy bears with tooth picks.
“This here is my BFF,” exclaimed a young girl who was referring to a young girl sitting next to her. BFF is an acronym for “best friends forever”.
The child was the most valuable resources at ITAV. AKA sorority members were very attentive of the children’s needs.
Kelli Brown, president of Iota Iota chapter, was pleased with the turnout of the program. There were many children as well as Bowling Green State University students who were in attendance.
Brown proclaims one of the main objectives of the program is to mentor young children. “We’re trying to bring BG area black children here to interact with one another. This is a mentoring program. We inspire kids in the community and are positive role models for them,” she said.
Whitlock’s two daughters, who were in attendance, happen to be identical twins. Shleah and Shreah are sophomores who attend Bowling Green High School and will turn 16-years-old this November.
Both girls enjoyed themselves at the event. “It was okay meeting some new people,” said Shreah.
Shleah responded, “There are a lot of activities for us. I made a string wolf.”
When asked what they would be doing if she was not in attendance at ITAV, Shreah responded, “I would be playing with my three kittens.” She was referring to her Giga pet.
Shleah responded, “I would be tending to the chickens at home.”
The “It Takes a Village” concept is an old African proverb. Alpha Kappa Alpha stresses the importance of this concept for black children.
Hillary Rodham Clinton chose this title for a book she wrote in 1996. Clinton proclaims that children will thrive only if their families thrive and if the whole society cares enough to provide for them.
The meaning of the event served an actual purpose than the event itself. It was not done to fulfill a community service requirement.
The program taught kids they can find solace within the black community. They were exposed to resources they may have never known before.
Whether the children realize it or not, they learned values that will stay with them for the rest of their life. Helping others will be a value that will be instilled in them for a lifetime.
Founded on December 4, 1972, the chapter of Iota Iota has been dedicated to promoting quality education, uplifting the black family, inspiring those to make healthy choices and economic empowerment. Alpha Kappa Alpha is a college based organization striving to organize a channel - an organization - established to promote unity.
Those who may want to involve themselves in this program may contact Kelli Brown at krbrown@bgnet.bgsu.edu
Washington Redskin "Sean Taylor" Remembered
Sean Taylor is at peace now, but the media gave him a hard time to achieve that state. The fact that Taylor was the victim of a botched robbery attempt did not gain him sympathy, but rather a merciless attack from media journalists. As soon as news hit that Taylor was shot in his home, the media began speculating whether his background may have had something to do with it. Gossip is not even a standard form of good journalism, yet journalists decided to make it their platform in their coverage of his death. Instead of reporting on his condition, news outlets decided to devote their resources to bringing up past events of Taylor's troubles. The media felt it was in good taste to say Taylor's shooting was caused by the way he lived. He was shot, but the media covered his shooting as if he done the crime. When is it a crime to protect one's family from intruders? ESPN broadcaster Michael Wilbon had this to say about Sean Taylor:
"I know how I feel about Taylor, and this latest news isn't surprising in the least, not to me. Whether this incident is or isn't random, Taylor grew up in a violent world, embraced it, claimed it, loved to run in it and refused to divorce himself from it. He aint the first and won't be the last. We have no idea what happened, or if we know now will be revised later. It's sad, yes, but hardly surprising."
It's sad that a few events, such as a DUI or gun wielding incident, are all that characterizes a man who has dedicated 24 years of his life to this earth. If all other news outlets will not show compassion for the senseless murder of Sean Taylor, The Obsidian will. May God bless your soul and family. Rest in peace Sean Taylor.
"I know how I feel about Taylor, and this latest news isn't surprising in the least, not to me. Whether this incident is or isn't random, Taylor grew up in a violent world, embraced it, claimed it, loved to run in it and refused to divorce himself from it. He aint the first and won't be the last. We have no idea what happened, or if we know now will be revised later. It's sad, yes, but hardly surprising."
It's sad that a few events, such as a DUI or gun wielding incident, are all that characterizes a man who has dedicated 24 years of his life to this earth. If all other news outlets will not show compassion for the senseless murder of Sean Taylor, The Obsidian will. May God bless your soul and family. Rest in peace Sean Taylor.
Michael Vick In a DogFight For His Life
Mike Vick has sure found himself in the dog house. It’s just so happens that the doghouse comes in the form of a prison. On Nov. 19, 2007 Michael Vick surrendered to U.S. marshals three weeks before he is to be sentenced for a federal dogfighting charge on Monday, Dec. 10, 2007. According to a court document, Vick worked out a deal to voluntarily enter custody prior to sentencing. This action caused Vick to miss Thanksgiving with close family and friends during this troubling period for him. Vick wants to get an early start on the prison sentence he may have to serve and display an act of repentance for his crimes. According to the Associated Press, the gruesome details outlined in the federal indictment _ dogs were hanged, drowned and electrocuted _ fueled a public backlash against the Falcons' star player and cost him several lucrative endorsement deals. AP states Vick is being sued for more than $4 million by banks claiming he defaulted on loans and might have to repay nearly $20 million in NFL signing bonus money. Not to mention he is banned indefinitely from the NFL. According to CNN, Vick has to pay nearly $1 million dollars for the care of about 54 pit bulls. These costs will cover the long-term care and/or the euthanasia of the dogs found on his property during a dogfighting raid. If that’s not enough, Virginia has decided to bring state charges against the fallen star. Vick will go to trial on state dogfighting charges in Surry County, Va., on April 2. According to AP, he has been charged with two state felonies _ beating or killing or causing dogs to fight other dogs and engaging in or promoting dogfighting. Each felony is punishable by up to five years in prison. Vick seems to be getting hit with consecutive blows, but the attacker is savoring the knock out. A player who once was sitting in a locker room mentally preparing a football game is now sitting in a jail cell awaiting his trial date. It is hard to fathom the rise and fall of this star player. A player who was once hailed by the public is now public enemy number 1. Many fans of Vick hope the judge does not impose the maximum length of five years. Daily News stated on Friday November 30, 2007, two of Vick’s partners in dog fighting operation were sentenced to 18 and 21 months, respectively, which may be an indication that Mike Vick will stay in jail longer than expected. According to Daily News, William Frick, the former prosecutor for the South Carolina Attorney General’s office who in 2004 got a 40-year sentence for notorious dogfighter David Ray Tant said, “I don’t think it looks good for Michael Vick. If those two guys who cooperated early are getting that much time, Vick is going to be at least looking at 24 months. I personally thought he would be looking at 18 to 24 months. But if those guys are getting 18 and 21 months, Vick is going to do more time. And they don't have the additional stuff of being the ringleader, which Vick is.” Many fans wonder if Vick will ever be allowed to return to football after these charges? It really is a difficult question to answer, but let’s just hope that Vick pays his debt to society and quickly gets back to what his fans remember him as. Not as a cruel dog fighting ring leader, but as a prolific football player.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is a disease affecting women all ethnic backgrounds. According Texas Medical Association, one out of nine American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. A new breast cancer case is diagnosed every three minutes and one woman dies from this disease every 13 minutes. The statistics are definitely frightening for women around the world, though it does affect a small percentage of men. Though the disease is unbiased in who it affects, minority women are very much susceptible to it. BlackAmericaWeb.com stresses that back woman should become more aware of this problem. According to the America Cancer Society, breast cancer is 12 percent higher in Anglo women than it is black woman, but with black women it strikes at an earlier age and the mortality rate is higher. Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer among black women, surpassed only by lung cancer. According to a study at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seatle, African American women, Native American women and Hispanic women are 70 percent more likely to die after a diagnosis than a white woman. This is attributed to the most incurable tumor type “triple negative,” which affects African-American and Hispanic women more than Caucasian women
The purpose of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is very straight forward. Since October is designated as BCAW, many women schedule a check-up with doctor for their annual mammogram. Mammography is used to diagnose breast disease in women who have symptoms, and also those who appear to have no breast problems. According to the Society’s “Cancer Facts & Figures for African-Americans 2007-2008” booklet, “Factors that contribute to the higher death rates among African-American women include differences in access to and utilization of early detection and treatment, risk factors that are differentially distributed by race or socio-economic status, or biological differences associated with race.”
RedbookMag.com outlines prevention methods women should take for breast cancer. Four doable ways to reduce your breast cancer risk inlcude:
The purpose of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is very straight forward. Since October is designated as BCAW, many women schedule a check-up with doctor for their annual mammogram. Mammography is used to diagnose breast disease in women who have symptoms, and also those who appear to have no breast problems. According to the Society’s “Cancer Facts & Figures for African-Americans 2007-2008” booklet, “Factors that contribute to the higher death rates among African-American women include differences in access to and utilization of early detection and treatment, risk factors that are differentially distributed by race or socio-economic status, or biological differences associated with race.”
RedbookMag.com outlines prevention methods women should take for breast cancer. Four doable ways to reduce your breast cancer risk inlcude:
- Do monthly breast self-exams! "About 40 percent of lumps are still discovered by women themselves," says Lillie Shockney, of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.
- Help your husband quit smoking. Women who have never smoked but who are frequently exposed to smoke at home or work are 68 percent more likely to develop breast cancer than other never-smokers.
- Know your family history. If you have relatives with breast cancer or other hormone-driven cancers such as prostate or ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor about BRCA testing.
- Breast-feed your babies. Research suggests that the practice can protect against breast cancer in moms over age 25.
For more information on breast cancer, visit nbcam.com
Internet Leveling Playing Field?
Is the internet leveling the playing field in the representation of people of color in the media? The Jena Six took some time to gain national spot light. The nooses were hung in Jena, LA on September 1, 2006. This action set off a chain of events that led to the harsh sentencing of six black students who beat up a white student. As one can see, these events were going on in this little town behind the backs of all Americans. Was it that CNN received a tip on what was going on in Jena, Louisiana? No, it took the efforts of many people, primarily college students, sending the information all across America through web.
The reason college students were so vital in the spreading of this information is because they are exposed to so many resources. In college, a student is surrounded by internet access. One does not even need to go to a computer lab to access the internet due wireless connectivity being readily available to so many students. Various forms of web brought this injustice to light, such as email and weblog. Many individuals learned of the Jena situation through word of mouth attributed to various blogging sites, including Myspace and Facebook.
Latisha Edwards, a second year student majoring in Psychology, said she heard about the Jena Six as a result of word of mouth. “My friend found out about the situation through Facebook and told me about it,” said Edwards. Jarrhette Burke, a freshman majoring in digital arts, learned of this prejudice through email. Now that we are in this new era many have dubbed the “digital age,” can we expect more injustices to come to light? As Al Sharpton said, “You wait ’til we go to D.C. and bring the whole country, because there’s Jenas all over America.” This is not the first incident of racial injustice going on in America and it sure will not be the last. It just so happens that this incident by the Grace of God was heard all around the world. People of color should not let incidences of this caliber stop with the Jena Six. Everyone should report injustices. If news outlets will not listen, create your own news outlet in the form of a blog. There are millions of people in cyber space. Someone will be bound to listen and it may catch the eye of someone who has resources to bring the injustice to national spotlight. As Al Sharpton said, let’s let it be known of the Jenas in our communities.
The reason college students were so vital in the spreading of this information is because they are exposed to so many resources. In college, a student is surrounded by internet access. One does not even need to go to a computer lab to access the internet due wireless connectivity being readily available to so many students. Various forms of web brought this injustice to light, such as email and weblog. Many individuals learned of the Jena situation through word of mouth attributed to various blogging sites, including Myspace and Facebook.
Latisha Edwards, a second year student majoring in Psychology, said she heard about the Jena Six as a result of word of mouth. “My friend found out about the situation through Facebook and told me about it,” said Edwards. Jarrhette Burke, a freshman majoring in digital arts, learned of this prejudice through email. Now that we are in this new era many have dubbed the “digital age,” can we expect more injustices to come to light? As Al Sharpton said, “You wait ’til we go to D.C. and bring the whole country, because there’s Jenas all over America.” This is not the first incident of racial injustice going on in America and it sure will not be the last. It just so happens that this incident by the Grace of God was heard all around the world. People of color should not let incidences of this caliber stop with the Jena Six. Everyone should report injustices. If news outlets will not listen, create your own news outlet in the form of a blog. There are millions of people in cyber space. Someone will be bound to listen and it may catch the eye of someone who has resources to bring the injustice to national spotlight. As Al Sharpton said, let’s let it be known of the Jenas in our communities.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Toledo Riot Aftermath: 2 Years Later
If one were to walk down Stickney avenue- or “The Ave” as some residents would call it- in North Toledo, one would not believe a riot ensued in this neighborhood two years ago. Children playing, music blasting through car stereos, friends relaxing on porches, teenage boys shadow boxing or playing a game of pick-up basketball at nearby Wilson Park would describe a scene on a typical day in this neighborhood. But taking a trip back to Saturday, Oct. 15, 2005, the scene drastically changes. At least 14 members of the Nationalist Socialist Movement turned an entire community upside down in their attempt to lead a hate march. In a chaotic four-hour scene to follow, a mob of 600 rioters looted a gas station and bar, engaged in a violent confrontation with police and pelted cars with rocks. The end result: more than 120 rioters arrested, a damaged city and community.
Today, the aftemath of the riot has further deteriorated relations between residents and the police, garnered a bad reputation for Toledo and left the north Toledo community with many unanswered questions.
What factors played a role in the neo-Nazis coming to Toledo?
The media had reports Thomas Szych, a white resident of North Toledo, contacted NSM due to conflict with black gangs. According to the Toledo Blade, a quarrel between Szych and his neighbor, a black woman, over a fence was the cause behind the planned neo-Nazi march.
The march was planned in response to what was thought to be worsening race relations in the community. Tony Newson, a resident of North Toledo, said he has never experienced any racial problems in is community.
“I have lived in this community for seven years and have never in my time here seen any racial conflict,” said Newson. “Everybody gets along.”
Tony Newson, his brother Josh Newson and Richard Huggins, believe the media played a role in promoting the build up around the march.
Toledo Blade reporter Clyde Hughes said the media played a part in the large crowd turnout and probably the intensity of the crowd.
"But to be honest, as a journalist, I don't know what we could have done differently," he said. "An event like that could not have been ignored by the media, print or electronic.”
Hughes said he believed NSM played a little gamesmanship with the media by refusing day by day to disclose its route and other information after promising to do so, leading him and reporters to write additional stories about the march they would not have written.
“That was a clever move by them to manipulate the publicity," he said. "In fact, there were things our police reporter was picking up on the streets that we decided not to report on because we felt it would add fuel to an intense situation, so I think in some ways we showed good restraint in our newspaper coverage and I think a review of our stories would bare that out."
Why were neo-Nazis allowed to march through a residential community?
Tony Newson said he and his neighbors were in disbelief upon learning a hate group would be marching through their commnity.
"There was a lot of unrest in the community leading up to the march," Newson said. "You just knew something was going to happen."
Former mayor Jack Ford said he didn't think the march was going to turn out the way it did.
“No one thought the protest would get out of hand," he said. "We expected some rock throwing, but nothing like a full out riot.”
Hughes said it was hard to predict.
“It's a tough call," he said. "Other cities handled it by giving them space in a public square, like what happened the second time the group visited in December.”
Ford said the neo-Nazis, as American citizens, are entitled to their right of free speech.
“First Amendment gives you the right to free speech,” he said. “If we would have denied them their right to march, we would have been infringing on their rights.”
Josh Newson said he is doubtful of the whole situation because he feels there are inequalities present. He said a musician wanted to shoot a video in Toledo, but was denied a permit to do so.
“Lyfe Jennings wanted to do a video here, but the city would not grant him a permit,” said Newson. “Our city denies someone who wants to provide positive energy for our community, but grants some people a permit whose intentions are negative?”
Should the community have had a say in who could march in their neighborhood?
Newson said he and other residents were angered to not have been able to have a say in who could march through their community. Newson said he felt betrayed by the city offering police protection to the 14 NSM members.
“My tax dollars provided their protection,” he said.
Ford said protection must be provided for those who lead a march.
“When you have free speech you have to protect people who are marching,” he said. “They could use the “due diligence” clause and sue the city if we didn’t provide them with protection if something were to happen to them.”
Hughes agreed police protection was necessary.
“Given the reaction this group draws, the police protection was appropriate," he said. "Without police protection and injury to the protesters, the police would have been drawn into the situation regardless and would have had less control."
Huges added “Of course, police and the mayor miscalculated how little control they would have allowing the Neo-Nazis to march in the streets and it all unraveled very quickly. I know we in the media didn't give a lot of thought to the counter-demonstrators, who proved just as fervent as the Neo-Nazis in their protest and quickly made for a bad situation.”
Newson said the march should have been held downtown rather than in a residential ommunity.
“The mayor should have done more to prevent the march from happening in the neighborhood,” said Newson. “I could see if the march was held downtown like it was when they came back a second time.” '
In the second rally, which took place in December 2005, slightly less than 30 individuals were arrested compared to the more than 120 individuals arrested in October 2005.
Freedom of Speech
Freedom of speech is arguably America’s most important Amendment in the Constitution. Josh Newson said police would not allow him to lead a hate march in a majority white neighborhood. He said it would be impossible to obtain a permit and police protection to do this.
“I know for one thing; if I gathered a racist black group to Ottawa Hills, they lock my ass up!” he said.
Jack Ford disagreed.
“If one wanted to march in Ottawa Hills or Perrysburg, they should have that right,” he said. "A group would have to negotiate with city officials on a variety of factors. If a city were to deny one the right to march, one could sue for infringement of rights. NSM applied for a permit march two weeks prior to the march."
The Aftermath
The Toledo Blade quoted NSM leader Bill White saying his group put more blacks in jail than the Toledo Police Department did in an entire year.
Tony Newson said residents should have shown more restraint.
“It’s hard to ignore racist white people, but then again we ended up hurting ourselves," he said. "That day, I saw people being taken by the bus loads.”
Ford said the city of Toledo was negatively affected by he riots.
“Toledo earned a bad reputation from the riots,” he said.
Today, the aftemath of the riot has further deteriorated relations between residents and the police, garnered a bad reputation for Toledo and left the north Toledo community with many unanswered questions.
What factors played a role in the neo-Nazis coming to Toledo?
The media had reports Thomas Szych, a white resident of North Toledo, contacted NSM due to conflict with black gangs. According to the Toledo Blade, a quarrel between Szych and his neighbor, a black woman, over a fence was the cause behind the planned neo-Nazi march.
The march was planned in response to what was thought to be worsening race relations in the community. Tony Newson, a resident of North Toledo, said he has never experienced any racial problems in is community.
“I have lived in this community for seven years and have never in my time here seen any racial conflict,” said Newson. “Everybody gets along.”
Tony Newson, his brother Josh Newson and Richard Huggins, believe the media played a role in promoting the build up around the march.
Toledo Blade reporter Clyde Hughes said the media played a part in the large crowd turnout and probably the intensity of the crowd.
"But to be honest, as a journalist, I don't know what we could have done differently," he said. "An event like that could not have been ignored by the media, print or electronic.”
Hughes said he believed NSM played a little gamesmanship with the media by refusing day by day to disclose its route and other information after promising to do so, leading him and reporters to write additional stories about the march they would not have written.
“That was a clever move by them to manipulate the publicity," he said. "In fact, there were things our police reporter was picking up on the streets that we decided not to report on because we felt it would add fuel to an intense situation, so I think in some ways we showed good restraint in our newspaper coverage and I think a review of our stories would bare that out."
Why were neo-Nazis allowed to march through a residential community?
Tony Newson said he and his neighbors were in disbelief upon learning a hate group would be marching through their commnity.
"There was a lot of unrest in the community leading up to the march," Newson said. "You just knew something was going to happen."
Former mayor Jack Ford said he didn't think the march was going to turn out the way it did.
“No one thought the protest would get out of hand," he said. "We expected some rock throwing, but nothing like a full out riot.”
Hughes said it was hard to predict.
“It's a tough call," he said. "Other cities handled it by giving them space in a public square, like what happened the second time the group visited in December.”
Ford said the neo-Nazis, as American citizens, are entitled to their right of free speech.
“First Amendment gives you the right to free speech,” he said. “If we would have denied them their right to march, we would have been infringing on their rights.”
Josh Newson said he is doubtful of the whole situation because he feels there are inequalities present. He said a musician wanted to shoot a video in Toledo, but was denied a permit to do so.
“Lyfe Jennings wanted to do a video here, but the city would not grant him a permit,” said Newson. “Our city denies someone who wants to provide positive energy for our community, but grants some people a permit whose intentions are negative?”
Should the community have had a say in who could march in their neighborhood?
Newson said he and other residents were angered to not have been able to have a say in who could march through their community. Newson said he felt betrayed by the city offering police protection to the 14 NSM members.
“My tax dollars provided their protection,” he said.
Ford said protection must be provided for those who lead a march.
“When you have free speech you have to protect people who are marching,” he said. “They could use the “due diligence” clause and sue the city if we didn’t provide them with protection if something were to happen to them.”
Hughes agreed police protection was necessary.
“Given the reaction this group draws, the police protection was appropriate," he said. "Without police protection and injury to the protesters, the police would have been drawn into the situation regardless and would have had less control."
Huges added “Of course, police and the mayor miscalculated how little control they would have allowing the Neo-Nazis to march in the streets and it all unraveled very quickly. I know we in the media didn't give a lot of thought to the counter-demonstrators, who proved just as fervent as the Neo-Nazis in their protest and quickly made for a bad situation.”
Newson said the march should have been held downtown rather than in a residential ommunity.
“The mayor should have done more to prevent the march from happening in the neighborhood,” said Newson. “I could see if the march was held downtown like it was when they came back a second time.” '
In the second rally, which took place in December 2005, slightly less than 30 individuals were arrested compared to the more than 120 individuals arrested in October 2005.
Freedom of Speech
Freedom of speech is arguably America’s most important Amendment in the Constitution. Josh Newson said police would not allow him to lead a hate march in a majority white neighborhood. He said it would be impossible to obtain a permit and police protection to do this.
“I know for one thing; if I gathered a racist black group to Ottawa Hills, they lock my ass up!” he said.
Jack Ford disagreed.
“If one wanted to march in Ottawa Hills or Perrysburg, they should have that right,” he said. "A group would have to negotiate with city officials on a variety of factors. If a city were to deny one the right to march, one could sue for infringement of rights. NSM applied for a permit march two weeks prior to the march."
The Aftermath
The Toledo Blade quoted NSM leader Bill White saying his group put more blacks in jail than the Toledo Police Department did in an entire year.
Tony Newson said residents should have shown more restraint.
“It’s hard to ignore racist white people, but then again we ended up hurting ourselves," he said. "That day, I saw people being taken by the bus loads.”
Ford said the city of Toledo was negatively affected by he riots.
“Toledo earned a bad reputation from the riots,” he said.
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