Congratulations Benedict Men s and Women s Basketball Teams

Congratulations Benedict Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams – SIAC Champions! VOLUME 81 NUMBER 6 APRIL 2004 BEHIND EVERY GREAT MAN IS A GREAT WOMAN IN THIS ISSUE: Campus News 2 – More funding needed for scholarships 2 – New School of Honors inductees 2 – SGA/Miss BC race Mrs. Patricia Swinton honored during Women's History Month BY KRYSTEL ROLLE STAFF WRITER Business & Careers 3 – Internships help prepare for career 3 – Tax help/tips from accounting department I Features 4 – Bridging the gap between men & women 4 – The “Battle of the Sexes” 4 – What traits make women attractive? n honor of President David Swinton’s 10th Anniversary Celebration and Women’s History Month, Benedict’s First Lady Patricia Lewis Swinton received her own ceremony of appreciation from the college in March. As Lady Swinton walked in the chapel with her entourage of family and friends, her husband, President Swinton, greeted her warmly. About 350 family, friends, and Benedict staff and students were present at the assembly program to help celebrate Women’s History Month and to honor Mrs.Swinton. The assembly began shortly after 11 a.m. with an invocation from Arts, Culture, History 5 – Know both sides of the Civil War 5 – World famous drummer visits BC Sports 7 – Handball team finishes 4th in Nationals 8 – BC basketball teams win SIAC Championships Photo by Floyd Ingram First Lady Mrs. Patricia Swinton receives one of her many gifts. June Bouknight, administrative assistant for Education Support Services. Assistant Professor of Social Work Brenda Clark gave the occaPhotos by Naim Zarif sion. This was followed by a Dr. Perez addresses the audience at the dance tribute to Mrs. Swinton special commemoration for Mrs. Swinton. from Donna Edwards-Todd, piano rendition of the work, “To director of the Harold Odom Dance God be the Glory,” in honor of Mrs. Theatre Co., called “Talk” that was Swinton. The audience gave him a done to words and music by standing ovation, and Mrs. Swinindia.arie. ton expressed her appreciation for Tara Roberts, director of the Stuthe rendition calling it a very beaudent Financial Services Department, tiful and lovely piece. read a Congressional resolution desMrs. Swinton has been a teacher ignating the month of March as for 27 years. She is now teaching Women’s History Month. This was at A. C. Flora high school in followed by special tributes to Mrs. Columbia, where she has taught Swinton from the organization Sissince 1994. She teaches human ter Act; from faculty member anatomy, physiology and biology. Vivian Counts, director of the South “I am a working first lady,” she said. Carolina Alliance for Minority ParAfter all of the tributes were done, ticipation (SC AMP); from Jennefir Mrs. Swinton told the audience that Fertil, president of the Gamma she was honored and “truly Upsilon chapter of Delta Sigma touched.” She went on to recount Theta Sorority, Inc., of which Mrs. the many blessings that she and Swinton is a member; and from Dr. Continued on page 2 Ronald High, who performed a Zimbabwe ambassador stresses land need for masses Z theirs. In order to retrieve the land, however, he said, Zimbabwe needs STAFF WRITER money to buy it back. Mubako explained that the U.S. imbabwean ambassador Dr. and Britain had agreed to give his Simbi V. Mubako came to country $2 billion when President Benedict College last month, Jimmy Carter was in office, but where he led a discussion before a when Carter left office, President group of about 50 faculty and stuRonald Reagan rejected the claim. dents on the history of the land In the 15 years since then, he said, reclamation movement in his counZimbabwe has collected only $71 try. million of the money promised by Mubako, who was appointed Zimthe U.S. and babwean ambasBritain. sador to the UnitMubako also ed States in 1999, spoke about the said his main role that former objective in comSouth African ing to Benedict President Nelson was to discuss Mandela has had the impact of in other struggles land reclamation by Zimbabwe. in his country. Mandela helped “Struggle for Photo by Naim Zarif them fight for land has always Zimbabwe Ambassador Simi Mubako been a racial spoke to a Benedict audience about their democracy and for human issue,” he said. land reform in his country and the rights for ZimThe ambas- lack of adequate support from the babwe, Mubako sador spoke on U.S. and Britain on that issue. said. He added several issues that Mandela also implemented proaffecting Zimbabwe. He said that grams in South Africa to give land the United States as well as Britain to the masses. had promised his country money for Making a challenge to Benedict land retrieval. The need for land is students and African Americans in essential to Zimbabwe, he said. “If general, Ambassador Mubako said we have land, we will be able to he wants more people, especially provide food and other resources blacks, to show greater support to needed in order to survive,” he said. the African continent. Blacks had originally held most of “You should come out more the land in his country. In 1956, the forcibly to support Zimbabwe so land in Zimbabwe was divided that we may end up with political between black and white farmers. as well as economical empowerNow black farmers there are trying ment,” he told the audience. reclaim what they feel is rightfully BY DIONNE CHANDLER Tiger News receives top honors from S.C. Press Association BY ALI OMAR EDITOR T he Tiger newspaper staff has now earned the right to be called the best in their class, so to speak. This past February, the South Carolina Press Association (SCPA) named the newspaper Best Overall Collegiate Newspaper of Division III. The SCPA is an organization for professional and college newspapers in South Carolina. The Tiger News was in competition for the Division III first Tiger News staff members who went to the S.C. Press Association place award with other several college convention to pick up the Tiger News first place award. From left to newspapers from institutions with an right: Krystel Rolle, Sherika Prince, advisor G. A. Shabazz, Tamika enrollment of between 3,000 to 5,000 McLemore, editor Ali Omar, Raynita Miller and (back) Terrell Bryant. students. and the University of South Carolina at Aiken, Claflin This is the Tiger News’ second consecutive year College, Winthrop University, and Clemson Univerwinning an award in the competition. Last year the sity. Tiger News came in second place for Best Overall In their written comments on the Tiger News, the Newspaper in Division II. judges said that they get “a well rounded sense of For this year’s competition, the Tiger News was news, sports and fun at Benedict College from the judged on past issues (in spring and fall of 2003) and varied story selection and for the newspaper’s content useful calendar boxes. Lots on such elements as the qual“I really appreciate the hard of photos – great! The secity of the writing, the layout and design, graphics and pho- work of all our staff members. tions have energy in the writing and design.” tography. Shabazz said she was very Several members of the We are looking forward to pleased that Tiger News won Tiger News staff and advisor- another great year.” again this year and moved instructor Gladys Shabazz, of G. A. Shabazz, up from second to first place. the English, Foreign Lanadvisor-instructor of the “We are making tremendous guages, and Mass Communication Department, traveled award-winning Tiger News progress,” she said. “All of us worked very hard to proto Myrtle Beach to accept the duce a product that we hope award at the press associathe college community appreciates and enjoys. I hope tion’s annual convention. Some of the other school we can continue to improve, and we will, with the newspapers Tiger News competed against were from support of the college and the next staff. We look forFurman University, Bob Jones University, the Colward to another great year.” lege of Charleston, the University of South Carolina, Page 2 APRIL 2004 C AMPUS N E W S Benedict and other HBCUs not getting fair share, say black officials BY QUESHONDA MOORE STAFF WRITER BC TIGER NEWS FINANCIAL PLANNING More funding urged for need-based scholarships Tips for students BY JANEEN TOOLE STAFF WRITER D I s your financial future going in the right path? Recently, this question was put to a group of students attending a workshop here with financial advisor Tim Williams, who spoke on the importance of financial planning and finding a financial advisor. Williams, who is with the local financial investment firm Waddell and Reed, was invited to speak for a workshop sponsored by the Benedict Delta Mu Delta honorary accounting society chapter. He explained that he educates his clients on understanding specific choices they make concerning their finances. His objective, he said, is to teach his clients how to make intelligent choices when it comes to money. “When it comes to finances, people have been mis-educated or tied to old habits,” he said. “In order to change this, we have to financially re-construct those habits.” Williams shared some tips to help students on how to become better equipped to handle financial situations. He said too many times college student don’t have a game plan or a time frame for what they want to do financially. Therefore, he said, students need to do the following: • Look at what you have and make good sense of it. • Write down your goals. • Delay big immediate purchases. • Live on campus or at home to so you can build a firm financial base. • Create an emergency fund at a different location than your bank, and make sure you don’t have check book or credit card access. • Set aside at least three to six months of expense money and keep saving. • Make investments; do research on investments; for the best ones, ask around if you have to. • Try to stay away from getting credit cards. They are the quickest way to get in debt. • If you have credit cards and are in debt, pay them off before you start your financial savings. • Concentrate on your debts one by one. Then you can go forth with making financial plans. Williams said these are only a few tips to get you started. If you need more help, talk to a financial counselor at a church, bank, or a business firm. Just remember: a better financial future can be yours if you start saving and planning today. emocratic State Sen. Daryl Jackson issued a call for more federal and state funding of historic black colleges and universities, such as Benedict, when he spoke here recently during a Legislative Appreciative Luncheon, held by Benedict to thank those legislators who have given their support to the college. Jackson was among several legislators who attended the thank-you luncheon. He, along with State Sen. Kay Patterson and State Representatives Leon Howard, Todd Rutherford, and John Scott, and some other key officials, discussed the distribution of federal funding for Hope and Life scholarships and state tuition grants. They strategize on ways to make sure that the distribution of federal and state funds for the state’s colleges is done in an equitable manner. Dwayne L. Smiling, assistant director of Benedict’s Office of Governmental Affairs Grants and Contracts, helped plan the luncheon session, which attracted a number of faculty, staff, and students. Discussing the level of govern- mental funding for Benedict, Jackson said, “We are under-funded. We deserve a lot more.” The federal and state governments provide the funds for Hope and Life scholarships, which go to students who have a score of a 1,000 or better on the SAT. Jackson noted, however, that need based merit programs such as the Palmetto scholarship, are not as fully funded. State Sen. Patterson doesn’t think that the money is divided in an equitable manner. “The kids who are in need get the least amount of money,” he said. State Rep. Scott commented that South Carolina spent ten years bringing the lottery to the state. The lottery dollars fund the Life and Palmetto scholarships, he said, instead of programs such as ‘No Child Left Behind,’ which would provide resources to parents to pay for after school programs and for learning specialists, who could assist them in educating their children. In many cases, he continued, the dollars spent on lottery tickets are granted to students who don’t have a financial need. The legislators said the state has earmarked some $30 million over 10 years from lottery funds to endow three chairs -- or to set up professorships -- at the state’s three research universities: the University of South Carolina, Clemson, and the Medical University of South Carolina and to fund other educational initiatives. Out of that $30 million, however, only $3.5 million dollars has been given to HBCUs. “They want us to settle for nothing,” Jackson said. “We must continue to educate the public on what they (state and federal governments) are doing.” There are some legislators, on the other hand, he said, who are trying to provide direct funding to black colleges. “The needbased scholarships must be increased,” he said. Photo by Terrell Bryant State Sen. Daryl Jackson, shown here at Founder’s Day, is calling for more federal and state funding for HBCUs, especially such schools as Benedict. “Out of $30 million in lottery funds…only $3.5 million dollars has been given to HBCUs. They want us to settle for nothing. We must continue to educate the public on what they (state and federal governments) are doing.” State Senator Daryl Jackson, speaking at Benedict’s legislative luncheon Several new inductees join the School of Honors BY ZAKIYYAH WOODS CONTRIBUTING WRITER S everal new members were inducted into Benedict’s School of Honors this semester. The induction ceremony, held in Antisdel Chapel, was one of several events sponsored by the School during Honors Week. A rainy, cloudy day outside did not dampen the spirits of the proud 150-plus inductees, friends, family and supporters who attended the ceremony. The program began with the new inductees entering the chapel in single file in order of their respective academic schools. They remained standing until every student was in place, then they sat in unison. The program included a welcome address. Miss School of Honors 2003-2004 Tina Sanders delivered the occasion and David J. Malebranche, the speaker of the hour, was introduced. After the introduction of the speaker, Benedict’ s gospel choir sang, dedicating their rendition of “Total Praise” to the inductees. The choir members started out in a soft hum, which escalated into powerful, inspirational lyrics. Audience members sat enthralled in the beauty of the song’s message. Thanking the family members, friends of the inductees, and faculty and staff in attendance, keynote speaker Malebranche congratulated the inductees, and then he began his speech. He spoke about his own childhood and how he learned the importance of education from his father. “I expect for you to be scholarly in four things,” Malebranche said. “Academics…life…the ability to dissect rhetoric…respect.” Malebranche stressed the importance of everyone having respect for each other no matter what title he or she may possess. “We want you to stand on our shoulders and see further than we have seen,” Malebranche said. Students in the audience and the honor scholars themselves appeared very interested in Malebranche’s message as he spoke. “I think he (Malebranche) is right,” said one student after the speech. “We must respect ourselves and always, others.” Malebranche ended his speech by saying that there is a need for affirmation between people. He was presented with a plaque from the Benedict College School of Honors, which is under the direction of Dr. Ronnie Hopkins. The assistant director is Dr. Glenda Suber. After the speaker’s remarks, recognition was given to the School of Honors faculty, staff and member students. Students from two middle schools were also present, as well as students from C.A. Johnson high school’s W.E.B. Dubois Honors Program, with which Benedict’s School of Honors often partners on mentoring and special activities. After all the speeches and the awards, the time finally arrived for the new members to be officially inducted. The Commitment was read and the Resolution was given. The inductees stood and walked across the stage. As their names were announced, Hopkins and Suber and other program guests and participants greeted them. Each inductee received a copy of the Honor Program’s Resolution and the Pledge of Honor, which they could keep as mementos of the occasion and of their high achievement. After the Benedict School of Honors induction for its scholars, scholars in C. A. Johnson’s W.E.B. Dubois honors program were inducted in that program. President David Swinton, Benedict Gospel Choir Director Darryl Izzard, and “Call Me Mister” Director Edward Hill were among those receiving honors. They were recognized and given plaques in honor of their service to the Honors Program. Mrs. Patricia Swinton honored Continued from page 1 SGA Election/Miss Benedict race attracted several competitors J ameka Young is the new SGA president for 2004-2005. Erica Smalls won the title for Miss Benedict for 2004-2005. The race was very spirited and exciting on campus. Banners were up; flyers were everywhere; and candidates and their supporters were out canvassing for votes. The SGA candidates for president were Marlon Walcott, Kingston and Jameka Young; for first vice president, Leslie Watley; for second vice president, Desmond Coleman and Tina M. Sanders; for busi- ness manager, Neville Bain, DeVaughn Joseph, Tiffany Pierce, and Jayron Gresham; for recording secretary, Nicholas Scott and Dontae’ Patterson; for corresponding secretary, Roderick Casey, LaDonna Holmes, and Latisha Monk. The Miss Benedict contestants were NaCaya Davis, Tanisha Morris, Stacey Read, Erica Smalls and Wendy Thompson. The Tiger News will have a full report on the campaign and the pageant in the final school year issue. President Swinton have had since coming to Benedict and the deep affection that the college family has given her and her family. “I appreciate the love that was given to David and I when we came here 10 years ago,” she said. “It is an inspiration being married to David. He is the hardest working and most dedicated president I know.” Before returning to her seat, she said, “Benedict, you are always in my heart. I truly appreciate this. I am very thankful.” Following Mrs. Swinton’s remarks, Professor of Education Dr. Judy L. Carter introduced the guest speaker for the occasion, Dr. Lucille C. N. Perez, who is the president and CEO of the Cave Institute, a medical think-tank in California, and the past president of the National Medical Association. She is also a member of Benedict’s Board of Trustees. Dr. Perez spoke on the pressing health needs of African Americans, especially women, and noted the disparities between the kinds of health care given to many blacks as opposed to the health care that whites receive. Racism does some- times play a role in the quality of health care, she said, noting studies, which show that whites often get quicker and more extensive treatment in emergency rooms compared with the treatment of blacks in emergency rooms. She then presented a plan that she said can help everyone achieve better health: “spending 15 minutes with God each day (in spiritual meditation); exercising for at least 20 minutes a day; drinking eight glasses of water per day; and getting a thorough physical check-up at least once a year.” Following Dr. Perez’ remarks, President Swinton spoke on how important the women of Benedict College are to the institution. He also thanked his wife for “putting up with me for 36 years.” Following the Women’s History Month program honoring Mrs. Swinton, a luncheon was held in her honor. The Women’s History Month committee included Chair Dr. Ruby Watts, Jeannie Adams, Carter, Clark, Faye Hardy, Vareva Harris, Joyce Hatten, Juanita Hopper, Bridget Jones, Roberts, Karen Rutherford, Beatrice Sumter, and Edwards-Todd. BC TIGER NEWS B USINESS & C AREERS APRIL 2004 PAGE 3 INTERNSHIPS: Practical way for students to prepare for career opportunities T Yolonda Goodman of Student Leadership Development and a STAFF WRITER seminar instructor, knows the effectiveness of internships. “Interns are oday’s traditional form of effective because they expose stueducation is being taught in dents to the real professional arena. a classroom, but where’s the They give students the chance to fun? Where’s the experience? When enhance his or her professional can you put some of that education ethics, communication skills, and to work and get some hands on organizational skills. Having an training and do the job you know internship also you are capable of? removes the fear One way many barrier of not being students are preparsuccessful,” she ing for this very explained. competitive world There are several to get the experiways to obtain ence they need and internships -- recto gain some pracommendation from tical knowledge is your internship through internships. instructor, seeking Going to classes internships on your in your field is a own through word great starting off India McKinney of mouth, the web, point toward the or even cold calling path to a dream to companies. job, but just going to classes alone Many student and professional to learn about a job or the history associations and organizations also of a field may not be enough to get offer internships. They can direct the job you want. In today’s maryou to sites or links through their ket, you need experience, and plenweb pages. There are also internty of it. ship directories and books. But few companies want to hire Almost every company, institustudents with a degree alone. Many tion, agency has need of an intern. are asking for experience and know Some internships are paid, most are how. You have been in school trynot. Companies welcome students ing to learn your trade and not who can conduct themselves in a working in your field. What do you professional manner and are eager do? to learn. More and more, internships are In this competitive world, profesproviding a door of opportunity to sionals are much more apt to share that dream career. If you have had tips and advice with a student internships that have allowed you intern, than with a new or upstart the opportunities to really learn, you employee who they may consider will have a better chance of getting their rival. the job you are searching for. Companies also consider interns Here at Benedict, internship as regular staff persons or employcourses are offered, wherein stuees, even if they are unpaid. Theredents can get academic credit for fore, if you want an internship or an internship in their field. With an if you have one currently, treat it internship, you can meet people in like a career opportunity, not a your field and receive training and chance to slough off and stay out experience you may not normally of classes. receive in a traditional classroom. Many an intern who performs Internship instructors say that well at a site may find it easier to internships can be very effective in return to the company for another helping students gain experience internship or even a job in the and prepare for future career opporfuture. Also remember that if you tunities. BY INDIA MCKINNEY Photo by Andre Buckland Students can also get a head start on their career by attending career fairs. perform well at an intern site, your intern supervisor can be an excellent reference for you. Accounting professor Darlene Booth-Bell in the School of Business recommends and sends students to paying and non-paying internships with such institutions as the Chamber of Commerce, Hope World Wide, Secondary Mortgage Lender, and the Internal Revenue Service. George McCoy of the Biology and Chemistry Department said that biology majors’ internships are a little different from most other areas. Biology and chemistry majors may receive research grants and assistantships and get the opportunity to work directly with faculty, where they get hands-on help and may even engage in cutting edge research. “If the students have good grades, that helps determine their seriousness and whether they will be assisting professors,” McCoy said. Many of the internships here are at least 120 hours, which may seem like a lot of time, especially if you have a full course a full load. Ron McKnight, a broadcast faculty member in the English, Foreign Languages, and Mass Communication Department, said that internships overall are an advantage for the students, but having to get at least 120 internship hours can be a challenge at times, especially for students who have a full load or work. That is why several faculty members suggest that students get the bulk of their course work done before acquiring an internship. Another helpful way to manage an internship is to get one in the summer if you have no classes or have a reduced course load. Another problem that may crop up is getting transportation to the internship site. Students may have to plan at least a semester ahead of the internship for how they will get to the intern site. That is why some students try to find internships close to campus or even on campus. This worked for mass communication major Reggie Jeffcoat, who interned with Benedict’s Office of Public Relations on campus. He answered phones, made media contacts, and along the way met media personalities. “It was a good experience,” he said. “I learned a lot about the communications and production field.” Benedict’s Career Services Office also identifies internships, potential jobs and graduate schools for stu- Photo by Andre Buckland Students from various majors, such as mass communication major Marco Brooks seen here, have had some exciting and challenging internships. Brooks spent last summer interning at one of the biggest television stations in Atlanta. “It was tough,” he said, “but I learned a lot.” dents. Director Karen Rutherford holds at least two career fairs annually, and she maintains contacts with companies for job openings and internships. She also takes students to graduate schools for site Continued on page 7 Accounting Dept. offers tax filing tips Tax season is almost over but these tips can help for next year CAMPUS EVENTS APRIL 2 3 CRIMINAL JUSTICE DAY SPRING OPEN HOUSE & HIGH SCHOOL VISITATION DAY, HRC ARENA, 10 A.M. GY AND T reason why the Accounting Department of the School of Business and Economics STAFF WRITER sponsors a tax forum every year,” he said. Whether you like paying taxes or not, the ax season is almost over. Many tax federal and state governments depend on payers are probably happy about that, the tax dollars of citizens for a major part of having been stressed out over their revenue. All Americans under federal whether they will have to pay Uncle Sam law, in fact, who earn an income, must file something back in taxes, or whether they taxes by April 15. can get through the myriad Nelson Alino, an instrucgroup of forms required by tor in the Accounting the IRS. Department, supervises the But tax season does not VITA program. He works have to be a super stressed in collaboration with the out affair. Members of BeneInternal Revenue Service dict’s own accounting faculon the program, which the ty have been offering tax department operates out of help to those procrastinators Benedict’s Center for Busiand people who just don’t ness Development, located want the headache of doing on Two Notch Road. their own taxes. They have The program’s aim, he been offering the service for Keiana Page said, is to properly inform at least two years now students as well as the community about through a tax help program called the Voltaxes. “Students are becoming more profiunteer Tax Assistance Program or VITA. cient through VITA,” he said. By offering Dr. Pender Gbenedio, professor and interthe tax help program, Benedict also fulfills im chair of the Accounting Department, more of its social obligations, Gbenedio said. understands that the process of filing taxes, The Accounting Department, along with sorting W-2’s, declaring incomes, and deterthe S.C. Department of Revenue, the IRS, mining dependants can become confusing. and the S.C. Association of CPA’s, sponsors “Many of our students are not well an annual workshop at the beginning of informed about tax matters, and that’s one BY KEIANA PAGE each tax season. The workshop, held in February, covers various tax related topics such as taxation matters for small businesses and the value of using home ownership as a tax deduction. During the workshop, students can get help preparing their taxes. Gbenedio and Alino offered some other advice on ways to bring down your tax liability. More African Americans need to be aware of the deduction for owning a home, they said, adding that homeowners can deduct the yearly interest on their mortgage. The property taxes paid on a house are also tax deductible, they said. Most students only qualify for the standard deductions that apply to an annual income of $30,000 or less. However, paid interest on student loans before graduation is tax deductible. According to a representative of H & R Block, the tax preparation service, the HOPE scholarship and Lifetime scholarships are also tax deductible. Another area of income taxes that can be confusing for students and which can lead to bad choices is when to spend that income tax refund and how. Gbenedio’s advice to students regarding their tax refund is “spend it wisely. Buy what is essential, budget your money, and don’t spend it all their money in one month.” EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOMATHEMATICS WEEK 6 BLACK HERITAGE FASHION SHOW, SWINTON CENTER BALLROOMS, 6 P.M. EASTER HOLIDAY WIND ENSEMBLE SPRING CONCERT, LITTLE THEATRE, 7:30 P.M. RENAIZANCE THEATRE PRESENTS: “NOT ANOTHER GOSPEL PLAY”, LITTLE THEATRE, 7:30 P.M. STUDENT ART EXHIBITION OPENS, HENRY PONDER ART GALLERY TIGERFEST WEEK CHILD AND FAMILY MAJORS CAREER FAIR, SWINTON CAMPUS CENTER, 10 A.M. JAZZ ENSEMBLE SPRING CONCERT, LITTLE THEATRE, 7:30 P.M. LAST DAY TO DROP A CLASS 12 13 16 19 25 19 22 23 Page 4 APRIL 2004 F EATURES a few female students, faculty and staff: Triya Godfrey, senior, business administration major: “How to respect women. How it is important to be honest. Stop playing with us women and stop being a thug.” Lakeisha Rogers, junior, sociology major: “They should know women are not as weak as they think we are. We handle brutal honesty.” Susan Dugan, faculty member: “You need to think of women as individuals, not as a subgroup. I think that by treating everybody as an individual, the gaps that exist come closer together. Robin Amaker, senior, social work major: “Our emotional needs. Knowing who she is as a woman.” Karen Brown, senior, mass communications major: “Being dumb is not cute. Not every female wants a thug for a mate.” Dantz Davis, senior and staff accountant: “That we are sensitive. BC TIGER NEWS TIGER NEWS QUESTION OF THE MONTH: How to bridge the gender gap between men and women BY KEIR MOORE AND KEIANA PAGE I n honor of Women’s History Month in March, the Tiger News sent roving reporters Keir Moore and Keiana Page, in quest of some answers to the paper’s Question of the Month: “What do men really need to know about women that will help bridge the gap between men and women?” Here’s what they found after talking to Dantz Davis Karen Brown Robin Amaker Susan Dugan Triya Godfrey Lakeisha Rogers Communication is the key. We’ve got to be able to talk about any and everything.” Latricha Williams, senior, criminal justice major: “Men need to know about our emotional sides. They shouldn’t try so hard in trying to help us out with our problems when they are really the problem. Communication is the key.” April Foggle, junior, social work major: “That men and women need to support each other 100 percent in the things we do in order to bridge the gap between us.” The Battle of the Sexes: BC students offer reasons for the ‘gender divide’ BY GEORGE MOSES III & TOWANDA TISDALE W hether you agree that men are from Mars and women are from Venus, the bottom line is that men and women are different. It is because of this fact, men and women sometimes have conflicts between each other, no matter their age or color. In most normal households, men and women are taught from childhood the “roles” that men and women are supposed to play in society. For example: men are the guardians and protectors of the home, while the women are the caretakers of it. However, there have been some deviations from this script throughout history. In the world today, especially here in the United States, traditional male and female roles have been adjusted due to certain events and influences in history (i.e. the women’s suffrage movement, more women playing sports, gay rights, etc.). Some women, as well as men, have been trained to think in such ways. It goes back to the old Biblical days of women being submissive. Women were not allowed to feel any type of emotions. They were used to being completely powerless. Location is also important. Growing up in the South is not Towanda Tisdale George Moses the same as growing up in the North. Different kinds of valfeel that being able to provide for ues are instilled in you. As a southself is the best solution to all probern woman, I was given a list of lems. what not to do. And if I ever quesTyra Oliver, a senior and a child tioned the reasons, I was always told and family studies major, discussed that it was not very lady like. her views on the whole battle of the However, very few southern sexes issue. “I am a working women still believe that women woman, and I prefer to deal with a should be ‘stay at home moms’. The man who is at least making some old cave man thinking that women progress. He doesn’t have to have should be barefoot and pregnant is money galore, but he should at least long gone. More women are indebe trying to get something.” pendent and providing for themAnother student, Valencia Goodselves. win, comments on how she feels Several female Benedict students about the male versus female stigma. “Personally, I feel that most women prey on men who are ‘easy’ in a way; they prey on men who don’t have a problem with providing them with everything that they want.” George’s take on the issue On the other hand, others feel relationships should not be about one individual. It takes two to have a successful relationship. People’s roles are important and both should be equal. It is assumed that every relationship should be 50/50 in terms of productivity. However, both men and women perform different tasks in these relationships. As to what task should be performed by whom, that should be determined by the counterparts in the relationship. For example, females have high expectations of their man. “My man must be responsible, mature, intelligent, and sweet,” said Carla Mckenzie, a sophomore. Mckenzie also stated that she is independent and can provide for herself. Several females feel as though the man should be the initiator of a relationship. Senior Antonio Kelly discussed how he feels about initiating things. “If the relationship is 50/50, both should initiate certain things. When both initiate things, that creates excitement.” Another student, Byron King, stated how he feels about initiating things. “I like to initiate things because I think all males should be the one to initiate, and the females should just sit back and let us handle everything.” Wrap-Up In conclusion, it’s all about communication. Each person may require certain things from the other in a relationship, but how is either to know what those things are without those standards being told to them. In relationships, in setting your standards for the opposite sex, consider the minimal characteristics that you can deal with at the minimum. Some rules can be bent; some can be broken; some not at all. It all depends on you. Towanda’s take on the issue Many people may wonder why is it normal for women to ‘expect’, so to speak, certain things from men. The reasons vary tremendously, according to the different sets of people that I have spoken with. “It’s all about communication. Each person may require certain things from the other in a relationship, but how is either to know what those things are without those standards being told to them… In relationships, in setting your standards for the opposite sex, consider the minimal characteristics that you can deal with at the minimum. Some rules can be bent; some can be broken; some not changed at all. It all depends on you.” George Moses & Towanda Tisdale BC MEN ARE ASKED: What traits make a woman attractive? BY TOWANDA TISDALE STAFF WRITER Editor’s Note — What defines a woman as attractive? There are many ways to define an attractive woman, it seems. Tiger News reporter Towanda Tisdale took a mini survey with a few of the men on campus to find out how they feel about this question. Here are some of their thoughts. “African American. Nice legs, eyes. Long hair.” Authur Mayes, junior, biology major “Long hair. Personality.” Donovan Gayle, junior business management major “Maturity. She has to be able to see through nonsense.” Cameron Taylor, freshman, biology major “A woman with glasses. She has to be short. Natural hair. Pretty feet. A woman that I can wake up to without makeup.” John Thomas, sophomore, social work major “Pretty smile, legs, long hair and pretty eyes. She has to have common sense.” Pete Asmond, freshman, physics and engineering major Tiger News BENEDICT Vol. 81 No. 6 Spring 2004 Tiger Newspaper Staff Instructor/Advisor: Mrs. G. A. Shabazz Editor: Ali Omar Assistant Editor: Terrell Bryant COLLEGE April 2004 Pete Asmond Authur Mayes “Intelligent, sophisticated lady. I like sex appeal.” Larres Curry, junior, business management major “Sense of humor. Knows how to treat a brotha.” Joshua Middleton, freshman, business major “Personality and sense of humor.” Shawn Ray, freshman, English major “Intelligent. Intelligence goes a long way. Open minded, respect- ful and just happy.” Michael Jones, freshman, business management major “Personality and skin tone.” Sam Davis, senior, social work major “Attitude. Strong but hard to get to.” Bryan Simon, senior, mass communications major “Skin tone, hair. How much she knows about the world around her. How comfortable she is around me. Creativity.” Bernard Caulder, sophomore, political science major Staff Writers: Kristen Archie Dionne Chandler Omar Davis Jocelyn Egleton McKeiver Jones David Lee India McKinney Raynita Miller Keir Moore Queshonda Moore George Moses Allyson Murphy Keiana Page Delaqua Pickett Krystel Rolle Towanda Tisdale Janeen Toole Sports Writers: Raynita Miller Photographers: Andre Buckland Na’im Zarif News Assistants: Tamika McLemore Produced by the Production Print class MASS 336 – English, Foreign Languages, and Mass Communications Dept. The newsroom is located in Stuart Hall basement. tigernews@benedict.edu Member, South Carolina Press Association (Collegiate Division) and Black College Commications Association • 2003 First Place Winner • Best Newspaper Overall: Division II Newspapers, SCPA BC TIGER NEWS A RTS , C ULTURE , H ISTORY APRIL 2004 PAGE 5 Historian encourages folks to know both sides of the Civil War BY DELAQUA PICKETT STAFF WRITER B efore you think about buying that next history book, you might want to chat with comedian and historian Steve Gipson, a Civil War enthusiast, who recently presented a ‘living history’ expo about the War Between the States at Dutch Square Mall in Columbia. Gipson travels nationally, with a partner, to present his show, one mixed with humor and drama. In it, he educates people about both sides of the Civil War. “The point that I am trying to get across is how much we have in common,” Gipson said. Gipson has been studying the Civil War for numerous years, researching the truth on both sides. He gets a lot of his information from different books about historical figures ,such as George Washington, Harriet Tubman and Abraham Lincoln. Gipson’s purpose behind reading as much information as possible on the Civil War is because Hollywood creates false images of what really happened in that time, he said. However, he believes that the movies Glory and Cold Mountain are good historically accurate movies to see. “I believe that the best soap opera is history,” he said. In comparison to the way history may be taught in a normal history class, Gipson uses authentic Civil War artifacts as props in his performance, while he and his sidekick dress in traditional Union and Confederate uniforms. Dutch Square marketing assistant Michelle Harris highly encourages African Americans to view the show for its significant historical facts toward black history. “Though a lot of us know about the Civil Rights Movement,” Gipson said, “Civil rights actually goes back all the way to the Civil War… We give special attention to the ethnic involvement in both Union and Confederate sides of this very human tragedy.” Gipson’s traveling show ranges from one hour to an hour and a half in length. However, Gipson said that he has had three hour plus performances of non-stop Civil War facts. For more information on how you can book or receive copies of “The Great Civil War Exposition and Living History Show,” contact Allison Gipson at (423) 6587378. Photo by Andre Buckland Sekouba, world famous African drummer, shared wisdom and knowledge with BC students BY QUESHONDA MOORE STAFF WRITER L (Right) Civil War historian Steve Gipson and his assistant during their educational presentation at Dutch Square Mall. (Below) Audience members, including a group of Benedict students, listen to the Civil War presentation. Did You Know? (Little Known Civil War Facts) • The Civil War was not only fought over the ongoing debate of slavery but state’s rights, sovereignty, trade differences and tariffs. • There were between 30,000 and 60,000 FREE African-Americans who joined the integrated Confederate army. • There were 180,000 African-Americans who joined the segregated Union army. • 23 African-Americans received the Medal of Honor in the Union army. • More than 20,000 Native Americans were involved in the conflict and fought on both sides. Photo by Floyd Ingram The play “Affairs” written and directed by theater professor Charles Brooks, was performed on campus in March. In this scene the actors portray ancient ancestors who overcome great catastrophies and use their wisdom to help guide the men and women of today out of their troubles. ittle after 6 p.m. on a day in late February, all was silent in room 218 of the HRC building. Suddenly, students and faculty began to pour into the room with a sense of readiness. They were about to be taught by one the world’s foremost dance authorities, Sekouba Camera. Students were there from some of the dance classes taught by Donna Edwards-Todd, director of the B e n e d i c t ’s Harold Odom Dance Co., along with members of the local dance and drumming group, African Drum and Dance, Inc. and the visiting Boreyna West African Drum and Dance Ensemble. Everyone was dressed in African attire. Children from the dance ensemble pranced around eagerly awaiting for everything to start. Their drums were all set up. There in the center of the room sat Sekouba, a foremost authority on African dance and a griot or African story teller. Sitting before a full view mirror and dressed in an orange cap, green linen pants, tan sweater, and jean jacket, this world renowned dancer and cultural historian, considered to be ‘everyone’s teacher’because of his remarkable West African dance lineage, rose from his chair. He smiled, and then began to speak in French, one of the three languages besides Soussou and Malinke that he speaks. The Boreyna ensemble manager, Laura Rich, sat nearby, translating as he spoke. Talking as if he was having a simple conversation, Sekouba explained the meaning of a West African dance called yankdi. It means, he said, it is good here; the makru dance, he continued, means a dance for celebration. As he explained the dance movements, members of the ensemble and the dance students tried them, their bodies glistening with sweat, their breaths heavy. They danced with strength and courage. He explained that those two dances were started in 1980. They originated on the border between the African countries of Sierra Leone and Guinea, where they were performed during wedding celebrations and for baptisms. During performances, he said, the African dancers dressed in white from head to toe, or wore white jackets, blue tops, and white pants with blue stripes down the side. Everyone is taught how to dance in Guinea, he said. Sekouba said he thought he was going to be a mechanic, but his government recruited him for a dance company called Djoliba, named for the Niger River. Sekouba explained how he got into the company. When famed actor and singer Harry Belafonte went to Guinea several years ago, he was concerned that much of that country’s culture had been lost under the previous French colonial rule of the country. He asked Guinea President Sekou Toure if he could help start a national ballet company, and when he was given permission, the actor went up and down Guinea’s coast looking for dancers. He found 345 singers and dancers and recruited them for the dance company. One of those dancers was Sekouba. Sekouba said they spent months on Guinea’s Kassa Island practicing drumming and dancing all day. Out of 345 students recruited, 45 were chosen for the Djoliba ballet company. Sekouba said he was recruited as a principle indigenous dancer. “And to think I thought I was going to be a mechanic,” he said. Sekouba, now conducts many dance workshops and lectures on traditional music and dance of Guinea and its culture. “I am inspired to dance,” he said. “To be a musical griot and to be able to follow in the steps of my grandfather makes me happy.” Sekouba’s came to Benedict as part of the college’s Black History Month events. Photo by Andre Buckland The New Supremes – They call themselves the singing trio. Faculty members Pamela Bryant, Katherine Mille, and Faye Hardy shared their singing talents with the audience at the English, Foreign Languages, and Mass Communication Department’s “Kaleidoscope Reflections” program, held as part of Black History Month events earlier this semester. Several faculty members in the department shared diverse aspects of the literary, historical, and cultural heritage of African American and global writers and speakers. DEADLINE: MONDAY APRIL 19TH. BC TIGER NEWS S P ORT S Benedict played UNC Tarheels, taking a 2-0 lead in the first half. When BC’s offense was failing, their defense picked up the slack. At one point the Lady Tigers were left with only four players on the court, yet they managed to hold the Lady Tarheels scoreless with key blocks from goalie Melissa Reese. But something happened. By the end of the first half, UNC had taken the lead, 2-5. The second half belonged to the Lady Tarheels. Bad turnovers on offense and sluggish defense from BC allowed UNC to go on a 3-0 run for a final score of 2-8. After their loss to UNC, BC faced West Point for a shot at the bronze medal, but even that would prove to be a difficult task. Once again Benedict got off to a quick start with the help of Kim Webber and Raushana Gregg taking a 3-0 lead. West Point answered back with four devastating scores. West Point’s crippling defense precipitated numerous Benedict turnovers, resulting in eight points for Army. The Lady Tigers continued to struggle despite five points from Webber and Gregg in the second half. Interim Coach Charnissia Franklin expressed how proud she was of the Lady Tiger’s efforts. “No one here can deny that these ladies came out and gave one hundred and ten percent. The odds just weren’t in our favor today, but we’ll learn from this experience and come back stronger next year,” she said. APRIL 2004 PAGE 7 WOMEN’S HANDBALL TEAM Lady Tigers take fourth place at the national tournament BY RAYNITA MILLER STAFF WRITER A fter hard fought battles against several other college handball teams in the SIAC, Benedict’s women’s handball team emerged with a fourth place finish at the recent national tournament. The Lady Tigers entered the national tournament as second place winners of the Southeastern Team Handball Conference (SETHC). Though they were high in ranking, the team was low in numbers. BC’s handball team headed to the nationals with only seven players and no substitutes. The outlook for the Lady Tigers was awfully cloudy. Yet, there was a shred of hope. The Lady Tigers would meet up with some of the same teams they faced and had triumphed over during the regular season. These teams included Rock Hill, Atlanta and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “We’ve played Rock Hill and UNC numerous times already so we knew what to expect from them, but we didn’t know anything about West Point,” team captain Raushana Gregg said. Benedict’s handball team was introduced to West Point’s “black” team in a scrimmage game the day before the tournament, in which the Lady Tigers were defeated 5-10. Then and there, BC knew they had a problem on their hands. In the first round of competition, Photo by Charnissia Franklin Handball Coach James Rice (far right) tries to regroup his Lady Tigers during a timeout at the Handball Nationals in Durham, N.C. Internships Continued from page 3 visits. If internships sound like the experience you’ve been looking for, you might want to sign up for an internship course for next semester. Check with your department for the requirements and course prerequisites, if any. Internships can be scary, even intimidating and hard, but they can also be exciting and fun. Editor’s note: If you would like to share your internship experience with our readers, contact Tiger News at 253-5297. College Corner GOOD FOOD • GOOD PRICES Hamburgers • Fries • Soft Drinks • Chicken * & More Stop by College Corner Your Neighborhood Friend (Corner of Taylor and Harden Streets) Columbia’s Place For Fun Attractions Include: • • • • • • • • • • 3 Go-Kart Tracks Bumper Boats Laser Tag Mini-Golf (54 Holes) Batting Cages Rock Climbing Wall Euro Bungee Arcade (150 Games) Frankie’s Grill Great Group Packages Visit us on the web at www.frankiesfunpark.com Frankie’s Fun Park 140 Parkridge Drive Columbia, SC 29212 781-2342 Page 8 APRIL 2004 S P ORT S BC TIGER NEWS Benedict makes SIAC history Men’s and women’s basketball teams take SIAC conference titles Benedict’s men and women’s basketball teams have set new standards, broken records and made history. Both the men and women’s teams won the NCAA SIAC Division II Conference Tournament in Albany, Ga. over the Spring Break. No other college had won both the men and women’s SIAC conference tournament since 1979. This is also the first conference championship for the teams since they entered the SIAC two years ago. Photo by Floyd Ingram Photo by Floyd Ingram The Lady Tigers celebrate their conference championship win over Tuskegee University. The Tigers celebrate their conference championship victory. WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Tigerettes overcome Tuskegee in tournament BY DIONNE CHANDLER & RAYNITA MILLER SPORTS WRITERS A lthough the women ended their regular season with three losses and went into the conference as a sixth seed, they had high expectations. Said Coach Maurice Bailey on the irrelevance of the standings: “When the conference tournament comes, everyone has the same record.” In the first round of the conference, the Lady Tigers beat Albany State 52 to 44. Albany State also hosted the tournament. The Tigerettes would go on to blow out first seeded Clark-Atlanta 69 to 44 in the second round. Even though the championship game was televised, that put no added pressure on the Lady Tigers. Senior Lashon McCoulley stressed to her team members the importance of playing the same game that brought them this far. “Ladies, we can do this. Play defense. Play good defense,” she said. Coach Bailey also stressed to his players to play defense and to limit their turnovers. “If we cut down on our turnovers, play defense and make the game as ugly as possible, we will win,” he said. With support from Benedict alumni and other student athletes, the Lady Tigers were motivated to win the championship. Tuskegee and Benedict battled back and forth with several lead changes throughout the game. Down by one point with seven seconds left in the fourth quarter, senior Shaunna Armstrong hit the game winner by making a 15-foot jump shot. The game’s final score: 55 to 54. After the game, Coach Bailey received the Outstanding Coach award. Kim Cue was selected as first team all-conference as well as the tournament MVP; Christy Yusef was selected to be on the all-tournament team. She also received the Sportsmanship Award. Tina Hayes received the Hustle Award, and Shaunna Armstrong was also selected to be on the all-tournament team. Photo by Floyd Ingram (Above) Tina Hayes penetrates to the basket in the defeat over ClarkAtlanta University. (Left) Athletic Director Willie Washington cuts down the net in celebration of the win. MEN’S BASKETBALL SPORTS CALENDAR APRIL 3 BASEBALL - BC VS. PAINE COLLEGE (AT PAINE) 12 NOON 4 BASEBALL - BC VS. PAINE COLLEGE (AT PAINE) 1 P.M. 6 BASEBALL - BC VS. COKER COLLEGE (HOME) 2 P.M. SOFTBALL - BC VS. PAINE COLLEGE (HOME) 5 P.M. 7 SOFTBALL - BC VS. LANDER UNIVERSITY (HOME) 4 P.M. 10 BASEBALL - BC VS. ALBANY STATE UNIV. (HOME)12 NOON Tigers escape with a win in OT BY CALLEB OBUMBA CONTRIBUTING WRITER T he ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ featured a fired up Tiger unit that swept through previous opponents Fort Valley and Lane by an average of 16 points. Standing in their way to glory were the Morehouse Maroon Tigers, last season’s conference champions. Coach Fredrell Watson, who was named SIAC Coach of the Year prior to the tournament, had to prepare Photo by Floyd Ingram Photo by Floyd Ingram Point guard Eugene Jackson shoos a lay-up over two Fort Valley defenders. Men’s basketball coach Fredrell Watson cuts down the net as he celebrates with the men’s team. Conference championship his team to avenge an embarrassing loss that was suffered to Morehouse in January. Before the game began, Coach Watson let his team know that there was no tomorrow. “It’s the GET A REAL JOB. How many jobs out there pay you to learn valuable skills? In the Army National Guard, we teach hundreds of sought after skills. You’ll also learn leadership, responsibility and the “can-do” that employers are looking for. You can gain experience, an extra paycheck, college tuition assistance and other military benefits. All while serving your country and community part-time. Call today to find out how you can make it to the top. SOUTH CAROLINA 11 BASEBALL - BC VS. ALBANY STATE UNIV. (HOME) 1 P.M. 15-17 BASEBALL - SIAC CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT T.B.A. SOFTEBALL - SIAC CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT T.B.A. 1-800-GO-GUARD www.1-800-GO-GUARD.com same game with different circumstances. We have to leave it on the floor, have fun and relax,” he said. It seemed like the Tigers were on route to a blow out, after jumping out to a 15 - 0 lead. Morehouse coach Grady Brewer immediately called a time out to gather his troops together. Morehouse would eventually bounce back into the game in the second half, even holding a lead throughout the final minutes of the game. It almost looked as if Morehouse would steal the game from the Tigers. However, the determination of senior shooting guard Eugene Jackson would keep the BC Tigers in the game. Fellow senior Pete Asmond and junior Charles Bankhead also contributed with clutch baskets to give the Tigers a second chance, as the game would be tied at 81 at the end of regulation. In overtime, it was all about BC’s clutch free throw shooting by Jackson and Bankhead, which allowed the Tigers to defeat Morehouse 89 to 86 in a thriller. When the buzzer sounded, Coach Watson and his team were ecstatic. “I was elated, hard work paid off. I hugged all of my guys and let them know that I was extremely proud of their efforts,” Coach Watson said. Jackson’s 30 points helped to earn him the honor of being named tournament MVP in the midst of the Tigers’ first SIAC championship title since 1961. Coach Watson received the Coach of the Year as well as the Outstanding Coach Award. Joshua Obiajunwa received the Freshman of the Year Award along with the AllConference and All-Academic award. Pete Asmond received the Hustle Award. Eugene Jackson was the tournament MVP and was selected to be on the All-Tournament team and the All-SIAC second team. With the conference titles in the books, the Benedict men’s and women’s team members danced into the NCAA Division II Tournament, but they were both defeated in the first round by Rollins College of Florida. Nevertheless, Benedict teams felt proud that they came home winners and conference champs.