The Xavier heraldFebruary 8 - February 21, 2011 xavierherald.com Xavier University Of Louisiana Established in 1925

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Community counseling student Ashley Bailey-Ojo surveys Gert Town resident Joseph Brown, Jr.

Xavier Division of Education gives Gert Town residents fighting chance

By Ariel JohnsonManaging Editor

A&E: Asian cultures around the world celebrate the new yearpg. 6

WOYMWho are today’s leaders and history makers?pg. 3

One by one, members of the Bese Saka Dance Experience group entered the room. The seven women wore skirts of traditional African fabrics with brightly colored patterns of vibrant yellows, deep reds, lush greens and muted blues. Within minutes, the room was transformed into African grounds as the women sensuously captured each beat of the rhythmical drums, from fast tempos to slow, through their artful Yuki dances. Sounds from three waist-high drums echoed down the walkways of the UC, luring students to experience these West African dances and music from Senegal, Guinea and Mali. Yuki, which is an African woman’s dance, incorporates belly dancing and teaches women to use every muscle in their body in one motion, harmonizing movement with erotic African beats. The experience is breathtaking. As part of Xavier’s observance of African American History Month, the Bese Saka Dance Experience will continue each Wednesday, Feb. 9, Feb. 16, and Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m., in the UC, Room 219.

See History Month Calendar, pg. 4

Story and photos by Brittney Rhea, Staff Writer

‘Yuki’ dance speaks to the African soul

As New Orleanians struggle to take back the streets in a fight against crime, one organization believes community engagement will lead to a better and safer New Orleans. The MICAH Project, Moving In Courage and Hope, is a faith-based organization that involves 15 churches of various denominations. Founded in 2007, this social justice organization works to eliminate problems in the metropolitan area. The organization is multi-cultural, multi-racial and non-partisan.

In order to encourage public involvement, MICAH is hosting a community forum Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, 1923 Saint Philip Street. Allen Stevens, a deacon at St. Peter Claver and one of the event organizers, said he believes the public wants and needs to be directly involved in making decisions that affect their community. According to Stevens, prevalent issues such as violent crime, public education, continued street, sewer, and transportation problems, and operation of nuisance businesses such as bars and late-night stores will be addressed at the action.

MICAH seeks seat at decision-making table

See MICAH, pg. 9

By Stacey WindonEditor-in-Chief

“This area is too small to be like this.” These are the words of 34-year Gert Town resident and community activist Rev. Lois DeJean. DeJean’s voice rose in anger as she stood on the corner of Edinburgh and Pine streets and described the derelict and abandoned buildings ignored since Hurricane Katrina. The minister said Gert Town resi-dents endure unacceptable blight and civil neglect because they, too, are neglected. “When poor folks live in poor towns, they don’t get recognition. We don’t have power,” DeJean said, her voice shaking with contempt.

To remedy these pains and restore hope to Gert Town residents, Dr. Ro-salind Hale, chair of the Xavier Di-vision of Education, led a group of community counseling graduate stu-dents and faculty who endured freez-ing weather Feb. 5 to conduct a sur-vey to gauge resident’s needs.

See GERT TOWN, pg. 5

Instructor Sister Esailama embraces feminine movements of the African drums.

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Page 2 February 8-February 21, 2011NeWS

CAMPUS BRIEFSCourtesy of Media Relations

Compiled by Ariel Johnson

Local Authors Tell Their Stories

Local authors Eileen Julien ‘69 and Kareem Kennedy will tell their stories of growing up in New Orleans WEDNESDAY (Feb. 9) at 6:30 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom. A reception will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

Minority Association of Pre-Health Students

The XU Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS) will hold its second meeting of the spring 2011 semester WEDNES-DAY (Feb. 9) at 5:30 p.m. in NCF 115. Stop in and learn about the different health care professions and upcoming events.

AIDS Awareness Day

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is WEDNESDAY (Feb. 9). Free confidential, rapid HIV testing will be offered by Brotherhood, Inc. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the University Cen-ter, Room 205. The Greater N. O. Chapter of the National Coalition 100 Black Women/Priority Health Care will also be on campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Katharine Drexel Hall, Room 130. For more info call 520-7396.

Crowns of Glory Hat Exhibit

The Crowns of Glory Hat Exhib-it - honoring African American Women impacted by HIV – will be open to the public WEDNES-DAY (Feb. 9) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the University Center, 2nd Floor Hall. Refreshments will be served. For info call 520-7396.

Late Night Scripture Series

The Office of Campus Ministry’s Late Night Scripture Series con-tinues WEDNESDAY (Feb. 9) with “Call It What It Is: Racism" at 7 p.m. in the Chapel. Future top-ics include: Feb. 16 – “Crossroads Decision," and Feb. 23 – “Victory Testimony at a Parade." The Rev. Fernand Cheri, XU Chaplain & Director of Campus Ministry, is the presenter.

Sociology Club is selling Valentine’s Day Cupcakes

The Sociology Club will be sell-ing delicious Valentine’s Day cupcakes on the first floor of the

University Center MONDAY-FRIDAY (Feb. 7-11) during lunch. Cupcakes can also be or-dered for special delivery on Val-entine’s Day with a special note attached. Cost is $1. Raffle tickets for a Valentine’s Day present will also be on sale for $1.Contact Ari-ana Stone at astone1@xula.edu

Books into Film Series

The monthly Books into Film series – a look at classic films adapted from equally classic nov-els – resumes THURSDAY (Feb. 10) at 6 p.m. in the second floor lounge of the UC with the 1936 film version of “Camille” by Al-exander Dumas. Presenting the film will be Katheryn Laborde from the English Department. Admission is free. Come out for pizza, drinks, and prizes.

Cancer Biology Graduate Programs Seminar

The XU Louisiana Cancer Re-search Consortium and Xavier RCMI will sponsor a presenta-tion for students, "Ph.D. Training in the Biology of Cancer at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute (KCC)", Feb 14 from 12 p.m. to 1p.m. in the College of Pharmacy, Room 115. This presentation will provide an over-view of cancer research at KCC and their Cancer Biology Gradu-ate Training Program and oppor-tunities that are available to XU. Lunch will be provided at 11:45 p.m.Contact Dr. Thomas Wiese at 520-7433 or twiese@xula.edu.

STOP Hunger Scholarships

The Sodexo Foundation’s STOP Hunger Scholarships reward stu-dents working to end hunger in their communities. Winners re-ceive a $5,000 scholarship as well as a matching grant to donate to the hunger-related charity of their choice. Deadline for applications is Feb. 18.

Basketball vs. SUNO, Dillard

Ticket plans for the SUNO (Feb. 19) and Dillard (Feb. 26) basket-ball doubleheaders at The Barn have been announced. There will be no advance ticket sales for these games. Ticket prices are $5 for XU students (with a valid XU ID card), $10 for adults and non-XU students, and $3 for children under 12.

For over 30 years, Xavier has brought African American professionals to campus for two and a half days to share their personal experiences with students and advise them on how to succeed in life. Through the Youth Motivation Task Force/Black Executive Exchange Program, which is handled by the Office of Career Services, students have direct access to role models who can tell them what to expect when they leave college and begin their professional careers. It is no coincidence that Xavier

holds its program in February when we celebrate Black History Month. Through the years, some of the YMTF/BEEP participants have been history makers themselves by being the first Black person in a particular career field. The participants represent a wide range of backgrounds and nearly half of them are Xavier alumni. Team members will visit selected classes on Monday, Feb. 21, and Tuesday, Feb. 22. However, on Monday, Feb. 21, students can meet one-on-one with team members at a “Meet and Greet” in the Ballroom at 4 p.m. The program also includes two panels which will focus on the legal profession and career options to medical school. The

YMTF/BEEP participants will soon return to Xavier

By Carolyn ThomasDirector, Xavier University Office of Career Services

- All Students: About 600 students have taken their photo for the 2010-2011 yearbook. Have you? Don't be left out. The yearbook staff will be set up WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY (Feb. 9-11), from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., in the UC gallery. It only takes a couple of minutes, so stop by! Also pick up your copy of the fabulous 2010 Xavierite.

- May '11 Graduates: Candid Campus Photography will take cap/gown portraits WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY (Feb. 9-11) at the UC gallery. Times: Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. They provide caps, gowns, hoods, tas-sels. Those taking photos receive a free proof and the chance to win a $100 photo gift package.

- Campus Clubs, Greeks: If you have not scheduled group photographs for the yearbook, please do so immediately. Greeks: the yearbook is taking only group shots, which need to be coordinated ASAP.

Contact Veronica Farve at vfarve@xula.edu or send an e-mail to yearbook@xula.edu to set up times. Photo deadline for the 2010-11 yearbook is Feb. 21.

Yearbook Photos

panels will be offered at noon on Monday the 21st in Room 205C and the UC Ballroom. Refreshments will be provided at both those sessions and also at the mixer. The old adage, “It’s not always what you know but who you know” is still very much applicable in today’s workplace. We encourage students to practice their networking skills and possibly meet a future mentor at the “Meet and Greet.” The YMTF/BEEP team members voluntarily come to Xavier – many at their own personal expense – because they are passionate about helping students achieve their goals. Please return the love by coming out to talk with them while they are on campus.

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February 8-February 21, 2011 Page 3

WhaT’S oN your miNd?

By Brooke AdamsStaff Writer

Lashaunda Reese, Sophomore, Theology

Renisha Franklin, Sophomore, Biology/Pre-Med

James Hearn, Junior, Chemistry

Anthony Boswell, Freshman, Business Management

Sarah Guillory, Freshman, Education

Destini Watson, Freshman, Speech Pathology

Robert Bostanian, Sophomore, Chemistry/Pre-Pharmacy

Lereginald Jones, Senior, Psychology

William Petty, Senior, Sociology

Courtney Lee, Senior, Biology Pre-Med

“Actually, I do not think that there are very many African American political leaders or motivational speakers that we can look up to now. I think it is more toward the entertainment music industry. The actors and musicians are trying to play duel roles as motivational and influential leaders. I feel people, such as Will Smith, who have a great career who take time to help out the community and give back to kids are the motivational speakers today. I do not think it is so

much as people who have a primary focus on leading.”

“I feel that Bill Gates is a motivational speaker and leader in today’s society. I look up to him because he donates most of his money to charity. I feel he is a notable leader and through his inventions people are able to normally function.”

“Today’s leader and history maker is Oprah Winfrey. She helps empower not just people in America, but also people all over the world. She opened a school in Africa to give young women a chance to learn. I feel she is a great role model for young women of today.”

“I look up to Dr. Cornell West. Dr. West is an intellectual, and he is just a walking encyclopedia about black history anything with black life. He causes you to think, he causes you to really look at yourself and say ‘OK, what can I do to make myself better, and make my people collective better?’ I look up to Dr. West because of that, and he is just one that I would like follow and one day hope to be. When I think of Dr. West I think of this quote by Benjamin Mays, ‘Whatever you do, strive to do it so well that no man living and no man dead, and no man yet to be born can do it any better.’ Dr. West is the epitome of that quotation.”

“I think Bill Cosby because he promotes education for the young black kids. He tries to get young black children to go to school and become the next president or the next big doctors in America.” “I look to up the honorable Louis Farrakhan. He raises

a lot about black issues that a lot of people are afraid to talk about. He speaks of topics that are probably more controversial. He brings up topics of slavery, and the involvement of Jews. He brings up everything that Father Linden would talk about with the doors closed. I guess in this country he is kind of looked over because he says stuff that should not really be said.”

“I feel that Oprah is the leader of today. Oprah is pretty much the queen of the United States, but not officially. She has so much power that she can say something on her show, and people will automatically want to go with what she says. It could be negative or positive, if she wanted to say something negative she could. Without using her own money she can change a lot of things in the United States as well as in other countries.”

“I think that person is my pastor. Right now, we have a new church building that God has blessed us with. He is just taking it on and guiding his path. He is rebuilding and remodeling the inside. I personally like to follow someone that I know is real both in church and out of church. He shows a perfect example of living life for God and all the benefits that you have doing it. I feel that he is a good role model for me as well as my community.”

“I feel that Common is a great role model to the African American community. He is very positive, he came out to Xavier last semester. He talked about how we can be inspired, and empower ourselves to be strong African American students. He shows that we can grow up to be strong African American citizens no matter.”

“I think Tyra Banks is a leader because she encourages young girls of all sizes, color, ethinity, and culture to believe in themselves. She tries to show young women that they are pretty in any kind of way. No matter the shape or form you are in, she tries to make them feel like they belong.”

Dijihad Hamerulaine, Sophomore, Chemistry Pre-Pharmacy

“Norman Francis inspires me. I feel that he is a great role model to look up to. He is the president of the university I attend. I really appreciate that he is trying to make the school better. He is well respected all over the world. He cares for the school, you can tell by the way the school is coming up with different projects.”

February is celebrated as African American History Month, with focus primarily on people and events from the distant past. The Herald asked Xavierites to explain who they think are today’s

leaders and history makers--with the exception of Barack and Michelle Obama.

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STAFFeditor-in-chief: STACEY A. WINDONmanaging editor: ARIEL JOHNSONA&E editor: CASSIE SMITH sports editor: MAYA JONESgraphic design editor: HONG NGUYENweb design editor: CLINE BAILEYfaculty adviser: MELINDA SHELTONbusiness manager: LATASHA TINSONstaff writers: BROOKE ADAMS, DUDLEY C. GRADY, MYLINH HOANG, RABIAT SARAKI, BRITTNEY RHEAphoto editor: JIMMIE JOHNSONphotographers: RUSTON HENRY, ALYSSA MERCADEL, MARIEL JARREAU

CONTACT INFORMATIONherald office (504) 520-7474melinda shelton: director of student publications (504) 520-5096communications department (504) 520-5092fax (504) 520-7919email: herald@xula.eduads: Latasha Tinson ltinson@xula.edu

The Herald Office is located in the Communications Department, Room 112B, in Xavier South. Please stop by during regular weekly office hours for information.

STUDENT INVOLVEMENTThe Herald is a student newspaper created by and for the students. We encourage all students to write stories, short columns, submit your professional, academic, Greek organization news, but most importantly keep us informed.

Publication date Print-ready ad and copy deadlineFeb. 22 Feb. 11March 15 March 4March 29 March 18April 12 April 1

The Xavier herald

Other events marking African American History Month at Xavier include:

Wed., Feb. 9Forum: What is Creole?Sponsored by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and NAACPUC Room 205, at 7 p.m.

Naturally New OlEileen Julian & Kareem Kennedy book reading www.neighborhoodproject.org/KARREMwww.indiana.edu/complit/people/julienhttp://www.indiana.edu/~complit/people/julien.shtmlUC Ballroom, at 7 p.m.

Sat., Feb. 12Stop The Violence RallySponsored by XABUniversity Center, at 12 p.m.

Sun., Feb. 13 The Color Purple PlaySponsored by XAB Mahalia Jackson Theatre, at 2:30 p.m.

Wed., Feb. 16African Dance Class Session IIIUC Room 219, at 6:30 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 17Speaker Series: Harbor Institute–African American LeadershipSponsored by Black History CommitteeUC Ballroom, at 6 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 18ThinkFast: Black HistoryTrivia Game ShowSponsored by XABUC Ballroom, at 7:30 p.m.

Black History Month Events

Mon., Feb. 21 Casa Samba Parade PerformanceSponsored by Black History Committee and XABUC Ballroom, at 6 p.m.www.casasamba.com

Tues., Feb. 22 Black History Convocation Gym, at 12:15 p.m.

Wed., Feb. 23

Monday: February 14, 2K11 "Be My Krush"The Yard 11:03 a.m.

Tuesday: February 15, 2K11 "Just Go With It" Blind Speed DatingUC Ballroom 6:03 p.m.

Wednesday: February 16, 2K11 "Tribute to a Black Woman"UC Ballroom 6:33 p.m.

Friday: February 18, 2K11 "The Newlywed Game"University Center Lounge 6:03 p.m.

Saturday: February 19, 2K11 Childrens Hospital Community ServiceBuses depart from UC at 8:03 a.m.

KAPPA KRUSH WEEK:Striving To Krush Kancer

Mia Chenier and Imar Sherrington capture the emotion filling the room.

B. RHEATiffany Knighten and Sister Esailama are hot on their feet to the African beat.

African Dance Class Session IVUC Room 219, at 6:30 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 24Speaker Series: Ruby BridgesUC Ballroom, at 6 p.m.

Mon., Feb. 28Black History ProgramSponsored by Black History CommitteeUC Ballroom, at 7 p.m.

Judah Mason drumming exotic African beats.

YUKI DANCE, from pg. 1

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February 8-February 21, 2011 Page 5

Rev. DeJean: ‘We don’t have power’GERT TOWN, from pg. 1

“We chose to reach out into Gert Town because we look at this community as a part of Xavier University, not an ex-tension of it, “Hale explained. Unsightly and unlivable conditions have not affected the resident’s civility. Students and faculty were greeted with smiles and welcomed inside by the survey participants, many of whom are senior citizens. The goal of the Division of Education is to “prepare

reflective professionals as change agents towards a more just and humane society.” Four teams of graduate students, faculty, and local community leaders brought the mission to life as they as-sessed the needs of the Gert Town community by asking residents about their top 10 concerns. Gert Town resident Joseph Brown Jr. told student survey-or Ashley Bailey Ojo he wants

a corner grocery store in the neighborhood. Several other residents agreed and lamented the lack of shopping venues some said they need conflict resolution help and teen preg-nancy counseling. The department hopes the surveys will support their ini-tiative to re-open Mary Church Terrell Elementary School that sits just across the Washington Avenue canal and is within view of the Xavier University Center. Hale said the school’s re-opening will allow graduate students to revive the Division of Education’s pre-Katrina community outreach there. Dr. Judith Miranti, who par-ticipated in the outreach, said she will help students assess the survey results and draft a community program proposal, which would use grant funds to initiate community im-provement programs in Gert Town.

Director of the Gert Town Revival Initiative, Rev. Lois DeJean vents angrily about blighted property in her neighborhood, including the abandoned home shown below on Pine Street.

(l-r) Division of Education volunteers Shaniece Cook, Kecia Poplus, Kiosha Jefferson and Dr. Judith Miranti endure freezing weather to distribute surveys.

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arTS & eNTerTaiNmeNTRinging in the Chinese New Year

“Chuc Mung Nam Moi!” (Vietnamese for Happy New Year!) Food, fun, and festivities reigned as Asians around the world held Chinese New Year celebrations Feb. 3 to usher out the year of the Tiger and welcome the year of the Rabbit. The rabbit is the fourth of the 12 animal signs of the Chinese Zodiac and a symbol of longevity and an emblem of graciousness, good luck, good manners, creativity, compassion, and sensivity. The Chinese New Year is very different from Western culture’s New Year because it never falls on the same date. Chinese New Year is based on the lunar cycle starting with the first new moon of the year and extends for 15 days until the first full moon. Chinese New Year is not just celebrated by Chinese cultures; it is inclusive of many Asian cultures. The New Year kicks off with the lion dance, which features costumed dancers who perform a symbolic “taming the lion” dance. Children receive beautifully decorated envelopes of money for good luck called “li xi” (luck money in Vietnamese). Festivals feature elaborate firework displays, ethnic foods, and musical performances. At the end of the 15-day cycle is the evening Lantern Festival, a parade of beautiful lanterns to welcome the first full moon. Each year in New Orleans, there is a rotation of church-based Vietnamese New Year celebrations beginning with St. Joseph Mission Church in Algiers, Immaculate Mary Mission Catholic Church in Marrero, and Mary, Queen of Vietnam Catholic Church in New Orleans East. For more information about Chinese zodiacs or New Year traditions, visit www.xavierherald.com and follow the links.

Photos by Stacey Windon

By Ariel JohnsonManaging Editor

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February 8-February 21, 2011 Page 7

arTS & eNTerTaiNmeNT

“Black Swan” is a disturbing portrayal of an obsessive compulsive, self-mutilating, and anorexic prima ballerina named Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman). Nina’s life is completely absorbed by her passion for ballet as well as the struggle of pleasing an overly protective, former ballerina mother (Barbara Hershey), who is determined to keep her in a child-like state. When she gets the lead role in her New York City ballet company’s production of “Swan Lake,” Nina is faced with the challenge of having to play the innocent, graceful White Swan as well as the evil, more jarring Black Swan. Playing the role of the White Swan comes naturally to her, but it’s her quest to accurately portray the latter that consumes and threatens to destroy her life. As her need for greatness grows, Nina finds herself experiencing out-of-body events, exploring sexual urges and balancing a friendship with a fellow ballerina (Mila Kunis) who may or may not be trying to steal her spot. This is all

done in an effort to connect with a dark side that she believes will complete her role as the “perfect” ballerina. As Nina struggles to play the role of a lifetime, the film’s audience finds themselves struggling to maintain a grip on reality. This movie takes the audience through a series of events that questions the authenticity of what’s real and what’s a mere projection of Nina’s hallucinations. For her role in “Black Swan,” Portman won a Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild (SAG) award, and is nominated for the coveted “Best Actress” Academy Award at the upcoming Oscars. With all that being said, it is an excellent movie!

By Rabiat SarakiStaff Writer

Once known as the new voice of urban soul, Avant can now be labeled as the new voice of modern soul. Avant usually sings about what is going on in lives around him, but in his newest release, “The Letter,” he focuses on his life and what struggles he is going through. When someone writes a letter, they are writing to express what is going on with them at that point of time. In this album, Avant takes his fans on a journey through his life and relationships. It hits on many points that men deal with in relationships, and also the struggles they go through. R. Kelly and Babyface are two artists who inspired Avant to sing and write about relationships. The lead single “Kiss Goodbye” has a very strong message: do not take a romantic relationship for granted, hence the words, “But if she kissed him, that is your kiss goodbye.” Those lyrics express that if the girlfriend decides

to step out of the relationship it needs to be over. The song “Walking on Water” has a different message, which explains the love he has for her and never thought he would find. It has a very quiet melody, and makes the listener feel the love of their partner. These two songs reflect how the album is largely about heartaches and happiness. “The Letter” shows how Avant has made changes in his writing and singing. The album is in stores now.

By Brooke AdamsStaff Writer

Some artists are meant to last for a season, and others, a lifetime. They can often be distinguished by the clarity in their voice and the quality of their music that leaves you wanting more, like 23-year-old R&B songstress Jazmine Sullivan. Sullivan returns with her sophomore album “Love Me Back,” two years after her Grammy-

nominated debut. With standout tracks like “Stuttering” and “Excuse Me,” Sullivan proves why she was Billboard’s 2010 Rising Star. Sullivan steers away from the commercial sound, and instead provides a compilation of honest and well-orchestrated songs Sullivan wrote. She maintains her signature passionate approach with songs like “Good Enough,” but also tells a heartfelt story of domestic violence in “Redemption.” Sullivan’s vocals don’t hide her influence from Mary J. Blige, Prince, Lauryn Hill, Kim Burrell and Brandy. Fusing 80’s pop, contemporary R&B and Hip-Hop, she creates a soulful, yet fresh sound that separates her from the rest of the industry. If you love R&B, this album is a gem for your collection.

GOOD

Album Review Movie Review

Album Review

Avant “The Letter” Black Swan

Jazmine Sullivan “Love Me Back”

By Dudley C. GradyStaff Writer

okay GOOD

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February 8-February 21, 2011 Page 9

By Lester Bell, Jr.Contributing Writer

Lester Bell, Jr.

The 3rd Annual Business Plan Competition sponsored by the Xavier University Division of Business is rapidly approaching. The application submittal deadline is Sunday, Feb. 20. The competition is a wonderful opportunity for students to get their business plans recognized and evaluated by current, successful entrepreneurs. Students are encouraged to participate and winners of the competition will receive cash prizes: first place, $2,000; second place, $1,000; and third place, $500. The Division of Business hopes that student participants walk away with more than a cash prize, but also an appreciation of the entrepreneurial spirit and a sense of encouragement and competitive edge. This competition is a major activity of the Entrepreneurship Institute of the Division of Business. The Entrepreneurship Institute works closely with Xavier University to foster an excellence center of entrepreneurship on campus. The entrepreneurial spirit is

the key driver of sustainable business growth, and the true ethos of entrepreneurship is in full alignment with the Xavier mission to empower all people to contribute to our society in positive, humane and lasting ways. I am a contestant for the 3rd Annual Business Plan Competition, and I am excited to have my business plan evaluated by professionals and receive feedback for improvement on my plan. I am anticipating this event and I am confident that it is the first step in moving closer to finding the entrepreneur within. I believe that, “you can never get to the finish line if you don’t start the race.” Once again, students who have entrepreneurial interests or who want to have their business plans evaluated, don’t miss out on this opportunity. Submit your entire business plan by Feb. 20 to http://xula2011.istart.org.

Bell is a junior psychology major from Mobile, Ala.

Third annual Division of Business competition

Stevens said the public forum’s goal is clear: “We want to sit at the table of decision making and be able to have a hand in creating final results.” Why should Xavier students be interested in the MICAH forum? Stevens said that like St. Peter Claver in the 7th ward, Xavier’s campus is part of Gert Town and near Holly Grove. The two neighborhoods have high crime, widespread blight, poverty, continued problems with streets, drainage, public transportation access, and nuisance businesses. These problems attract crime in neighborhood areas, Stevens said. Students should form an organization on Xavier's

campus and become active in making the decisions that will make these areas better, he explained. Stevens and other MICAH members organizing the open forum are optimistic and determined to see positive outcomes. A number of public officials are scheduled to attend: New Orleans City Councilwoman Kristin Palmer of District C; top police officials, including 1st District Captain Robert Norton; and Recovery School District officials, including Superintendent Paul Vallas. For more information about contact The MICAH Project office at 504-865-0802 or www.picolouisiana.org.

XU students encouraged to attend public forum to combat violence

Support our advertisers.

Your ad here.

MICAH, from pg. 1

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Page 10 February 8-February 21, 2011

By Maya JonesSports Editor

SporTS

Photos by Alyssa Mercadel

The latest accomplishment for the Gold Nuggets came after a 72–68 win over the Dillard Lady Bleu Devils in the Bleu Devil Classic on Saturday, Feb. 5 at A.W. Dent Hall.The Nuggets took control early on in the game and much of the first half, but the Lady Bleu Devils found their rhythm, trailing 31-27 at halftime. The renewed Lady Bleu Devils made strides to rally back during the second half and came as close as a 68-70 run with 10 seconds left in the game. Two free throws from Danielle Kennebrew increased the lead and sealed a win for the Gold Nuggets. Christina Warren led the Nuggets with 20 points. Jazmoné Kelly and Carmen Holcombe added nine points each. The Nuggets are currently 3-0 in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference and ranked 12th in The NAIA Division I Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll. The Nuggets will take on the SUNO Lady Knights in their next home game on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 5 p.m. in The Barn.

The Gold Rush pulled in front late in the second half to defeat the Bleu Devils 89-75 for their eighth consecutive victory in the Bleu Devil Classic Feb 5. The Rush struggled during the first half, but battled to take a 34-30 lead at halftime. During the second half, the Rush kept a consistent lead as they pulled ahead of the the Bleu Devils. A free throw from Wanto Joseph gave the Rush an 83-71 lead with 1:06, and free throws from Kevin Miller boosted the Rush’s 89-75 advantage. Michael Harvey led all scorers with 20 points. Devin Andrew added 17 points, Chris Iles scored 16 points, and Cordell Hadnot added 13 for Xavier. In addition to a 3-0 GCAC record, the Rush is ranked 11th in the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll. The Rush will take on the SUNO Knights in their next home game on Saturday, Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. in The Barn.

Xavier routes Dillard in Bleu Devil Classic

Devin Andrew shoots over a DU player.

Jeremy Lee shoots for 2.

Wanto Joseph and Jeremy Lee double team DU player

Christina Warren helps teammate catch the rebound.

Women’s team huddle.Jazmone Kelly and Keldra Hall fight to keep the ball in bounds.

Women19 Saturday SUNO The Barn 5pm26 Saturday Dillard The Barn 5pm

Men19 Saturday SUNO The Barn 7pm22 Tuesday St. Thomas The Barn 7pm26 Saturday Dillard The Barn 7pm

February Home Games

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February 8-February 21, 2011 Page 11

healTh & FiTNeSS

In the previous issue, aerobics instructor Sister Jean Marie Craig said, “You have to get really serious if you want to be healthy.” Xavier medial director Dr. Robert Mercadel responded, “You have to see the overall process, the big picture.”

You were asked to begin an “honesty entry” in which you kept a log of what your average day is like from morning till evening. Daily activities like what and when you eat, what you drink, where you walk, and how often you took the stairs or elevator. Did your entries consist of skipping breakfast? Snacking on chips and candy? Drinking soft drinks? Driving instead of walking? Taking the elevator instead of the stairs? You’ve just assessed yourself, let’s get down to business. I’m going to assume you know your daily activities are harmful to your well-being. Assessing yourself brings you one step closer to the beginning of your healthy journey. Change is possible!

Walk with a purpose Walk 30 minutes a day and keep the dietitian away. Let’s say you usually drive from NCF to XU South. The next time you think about driving, walk! When I first started walking from NCF to XU South, it took eight minutes. Now I’ve cut the time down to six minutes. When walking, try increasing your distance and speed. As a result, your body is doing more work. Challenge yourself and take it to the next level. Sister Jean Marie Craig suggests “everyone should do some type of aerobics a few days a week.” Do something to get your heart rate going like walking, jogging, even dancing. Any physical activity

By Mylinh HoangStaff Writer

• iPhone users: “RunKeeper” logs your distance, time, pace, even includes a map.

• Andriod users: “CardioTrainer” records and maps your walks and logs distance, pace, and calories burned.

• Blackberry users: “AllSportGPS” allows you to view your speed, distance, and provides maps of where you’re going.

Walk your way to a healthier lifestylecan increase body muscle strength and help control your weight. According to aerobic.org, aerobics can recover your mood and decrease depression, stress, and anxiety.

Use apps

Many diet and fitness information apps can be downloaded for free. These apps can be used to help you get healthy. It organizes your work out information so all you have to do is focus on exercising.

Walking Tips

Rabiat Saraki sticks to her honest entry and works out on the ellipti-cal.

xavierherald.com

Page 12 February 8-February 21, 2011

Zeta Founder’s Week

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. celebrate Mardi Gras on the yard.

Yearbook Portraits and King Cake Contest

in cased you missed it

Students pick up their 2010 yearbooks.

Senior Devin Andrew prepares for his senior portrait.Student votes on the best king cake. The winner was Manny Randazzo’s.

(l-r) Trina Fletcher, Jade Young, Sharrone Godfrey, Tina Fletcher, Jessica Joseph, and Mia Holmes.

(l-r) Tina and Trina Fletcher speak at Black History month seminar.

Seniors Lee Gibbs, Joe Gallien, and Brandon Theard attend the Tina and Trina Seminar.

Black History Month Series

Deltas Founder’s Day Social

Ladies of Delta Sigma Theta, Amanda Grego, Tempestt Brown, and Jillian Gibbs celebrate at their annual founder’s day dinner.

Photos by Julienne Brown, Mariel Jarreau, Alyssa Mercadel and Dan Shore.

Students Alesia Sterling, Melissa D. Lewis, Kapria Joseph, Dedrain Hogan, and Crystal Morris perform a scene from “An Embarassing Position.” The students took 3rd place in National Opera Association competition Jan. 6-9 in San Antonio, Texas.

Xavier Opera

Workshop Triumphs