He wakes up, lines up his watches, cleans his toothbrush, restocks his shaving cream, and polishes his shoes. Then as he proceeds to lock up his tent, he takes the zipper from the right side and brings it around to the left side and clamps his lock to secure his place of residence. These are things James Walker must do every morning before heading out to find work in the city of Charlotte. But once his day is over, he must head back to his new address of 600 E. Trade St. hoping no one has broken into his tent.
James Walker is one of thousands of protestors participating in the Occupy Wall Street movement which argues that the 1 percent of the wealthiest people have too much power. “The 1 percent are scared to change because they are afraid to lose their power,” explained James Walker, who is a singer and actor looking for work whose temporary address is now 600 E. Trade St.
Protestors say that major corporations and banks have too much ability to take away jobs. “These big corporations and banks have this power to take our jobs and take our money,” said Walker, who talked a lot about the issues of power.
The citizens of Occupy Wall Street feel the need for change is not being met and right now the citizens of Occupy Charlotte are reorganizing their daily activities and routines to make this change happen. Occupy Charlotte has been recently publicized in the media and the point of this stand is to show Congressman Mel Watt (D) that change can help the city- let alone this nation.
“Mel Watt needs to see that what we are standing for is something that helps the city of Charlotte and even the nation in regards to economy equality,” said Alex, a fired up protestor whose last name was told to be unneeded for the issues of America.
This change the occupants are talking about will come from that 1 percent. They say they hope to bring down costs of services, advocate more jobs by decreasing the tax rate, and allow more occupations to stay occupied and not being taken away due harboring money and being gluttonous.
Occupy Wall Street protestors say these major banks and corporations of Charlotte are being gluttonous by overconsuming money and wealth. This substantially leads to many job losses and foreclosures. “There is making a profit, then there is gluttony. The problem that most of the Occupy movements have had with the banks and these huge multi-corporations is that they have become gluttons and that’s the way it works for them,” explained Walker who became more passionate as the conversation went on.
With all that being said, one would say why doesn’t these big corporations, banks, even Congress speak up. “Speaking up can lead to someone’s job [being] lost, much like a political party there is a majority and a minority, in a group that is aiming to drive away from change, if one stands for the change that can be a catastrophic mess,” Walker explained.
The majority always has the overall power, and power always wants more power. “Right now it seems to be a cry of power, these major companies, are continuing to raise everything, charge everything, and have to control of what is happening with the city of Charlotte,” said Alex. These Occupy campers say they are here to fight these standards that are putting people in the streets. They say they are fed up, and they want to see change. They want to be able to go to work Monday and not worry that their job will being gone by Thursday.
Occupy Charlotte protestors have camped out for 90 days straight and they say they are ready to continue for 90 more days until they see change. Occupy Charlotte first rallied in 2011 when Bank of America decided to charge five dollars for each transaction used with a debit card. Many thought the fight was over when Bank of America decided to no longer charge the five dollar fee, but according to Walker, “the banks and corporations will get their money one way or another and it will affect the city of Charlotte tremendously”.
The protestors of Occupy Wall Street want Congress and these big banks and corporations to lessen the value of services, allow more jobs to come about, raise the tax rate for the rich, and open the door to those in need. Change is something Occupy Charlotte is fighting for and will continue on until change seeps through. “I will continue to sleep on these grounds and walk around and letting people know of this injustice until our economy changes for us,” said Walker, who stands with a smile as he expresses his passionate thoughts regarding Occupy Wall Street.
In a rough city with a pass-or-fail system, Raven Ward says you must have a role model who has done something positive to dodge the cemented negativity that threaten the residents of her hometown, East St. Louis, IL. Otherwise, you’re stuck.
“Either you’re successful or you’re not, there is no in between” said the key returning guard for the Kentucky State University Thorobrettes, who is using her passion for the medical field, instead of basketball, to unlock the door of success.
As a senior biology major in her last season, Ward is wrapping up her basketball career. “Nothing is next for basketball,” she said, “I want to become an OB/GYN, so I’m gonna take the route to getting into medical school.”
She draws inspiration from her great grandmother. “My great-grandma was a nurse, and I’ve always wanted to be in this field,” she said.
Her great grandmother serves as her role model, not because she inspired Ward’s future career path, but because Ward has seen her remain grounded through many struggles. “She taught me what to do and what not to do,” she said.
Ward, 22, grew up in East St. Louis as the youngest of her siblings for much of her life until she was promoted to a big sister in a group that currently totals 12. Formerly being the littlest of the bunch, she didn’t have to experience many hardships since her older brothers and sisters tackled them, but she still realized that the city was small, full of poverty, and lacked businesses.
“Not many people make it,” she said. The person closest to Ward was whom she first remembered overcoming the formidable city – her godmother, who went to college and became a high school principal.
On the other hand, Ward’s six-year-old brother aspires to be just like her, and she said it’s been a struggle to be away from her younger siblings. “Leaving them, sometimes, made me not even want to come back to school,” she said.
Before landing at KSU, Ward travelled down to Barton College in Great Bend, Kan. after high school, hoping to transfer to a Division-I institution. But instead, she became a Thorobrette under head coach Serena King-Coleman.
Standing just 5’6’’, Ward made an immediate impact for Kentucky State as a junior, finishing the 2010-2011 regular season as the team’s third-leading scorer (9.1 ppg) while averaging a team-high 3.5 assists per game; and while her numbers are down slightly this season, she remains motivated and a key contributor in the Thorobrette attack.
“I’m gonna work hard and never give up no matter what,” she said of her basketball performance.
She picked up a basketball at six-years-old when an elementary school coach encouraged her to play at a local recreation center, and she hasn’t put it down since.
In high school, she was also a pitcher on the softball team which helped occupy her time when basketball season ended. Between the two, basketball was the better choice; she said if she had chosen softball, “I probably wouldn’t be playing up to this point. I’d probably be at a bigger school for academics.” While basketball was better for her athletic career, academic success always remained at the top of her list.
While nothing can sidetrack Ward away from schoolwork, it’s the studying that can distract her from basketball. She said it’s harder for her to focus on sports if she has incomplete work.
Ward has always played hard, but studied harder, and that’s partially due to her participation in basketball.
“Growing up, I loved playing basketball so much. If I didn’t get good grades, I couldn’t play,” she said. “Getting good grades is the starting point to being successful.”
Although she has a passion for basketball, it’s her love for biology and a 3.6 GPA that she hopes will lead her to medical school in the future, which will be the success that ultimately helps get her pass.
While breezing through fashion history books, you will find men from the beginning of time o have been adorning themselves in gaudy and sometimes over the top pieces in order to gain the attention of the opposite sex. But, it doesn’t mean that they did it the best. In recent centuries, women have adopted the “peacock syndrome” of men in the past in order to stand out from the rest.
Ruffles , skirts , heels, and make-up is something that is now commonly associated with women’s fashion now while men’s fashion can sometimes become boring and repetitive . However, the tides are beginning to turn now that women are commonly sporting blazers, beautifully tailored suits , and even oxfords and penny loafers.
The alleged incident took place on the Alabama A&M campus, according to school officials. Campus police took Chandler into custody, according to jail records.
Chandler has been released on a $10,000 bond.
Courtesy of Alabama Live
Police said 21-year-old Justin Clark died around 8:55 a.m. Thursday at the Jackson-Madison County General Hospital.
Police said Clark was involved in a fight with an unidentified black male near the gymnasium. Shots were fired and Clark was hit. Police were not sure if the man who Clark fought with was the shooter.
Clark was not a Lane College student. College officials were assisting in the investigation.
Investigators believe there was a large group of people who witnessed this incident.
UPDATE: Jackson police have determined the man shot and critically injured on the campus of Lane College on Wednesday night is not a Lane student. Police said there was a fight going on at the time of the shooting in the parking lot near the gym area, and there were many people around.
Courtesy of The Jackson Sun & News Channel 5
GRAMBLING, LA– After interviewing seven finalists recommended by a search committee, President Frank G. Pogue announced this week that Dr. Percy “Chico” Caldwell will assume the position of Athletic Director at Grambling State University, pending approval by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors. More than 50 applications were received.
“One of the difficult decisions was narrowing this extensive highly qualified pool of candidates to one individual,” says Dr. Pogue. “Dr. Caldwell’s experience and professional preparation will empower Grambling’s athletics to the next level of excellence and bridge the gap between Grambling’s historic achievements and success in athletics and the academic mission of the University. He will bring significant strength to the athletic administration including planning, research, marketing and financial management.”
Dr. Caldwell, a former student athlete, received his doctorate from Iowa State University and earned certification as an Administrative Leadership Evaluator. He received a master’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation from the University of Alabama and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Psychology from Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama.
Dr. Caldwell has held several athletic positions over the course of his career. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1989, named Coach of the Year in 1990 and Athletic Director of the Year in 1991 for the West Virginia Conference. He also served in the United States Army, Military Police Corps.
“To be afforded the employment opportunity at Grambling State University with rich athletics history drawing national attention a great academic institution is special and very exciting. The rich athletics history separates Grambling State University from any other university. The stage is already set, my job will be to start from here assisting Dr. Progue and his administration continue to operationalize the mission and vision at GSU, says Dr. Caldwell. To be working with Dr. Frank Pogue and the GSU athletics staff will be an amazing opportunity. I am excited to get started.”
Grambling State University has 15 sports program: men’s football, basketball, baseball, cross country, track and field/outdoor; women’s basketball, bowling, track and field indoor/outdoor, cross country, tennis, soccer, softball and volleyball.
Courtesy of Grambling State University
It’s your birthday, and your girlfriend got you a special gift — but it’s not what you think. When you open the box, there it is. She brought you a purse, a pocketbook, a bag. And when you question her about it, she says, “It’s a carryall. All of the guys are wearing them these days.” She might be right, but you and your boys always laughed when you saw men walking by with large bags in their hands. She wants you to dress better, but you don’t want to wear a man-bag. What do you do?
There are more to these bags than meets the eye. Their street name is “man-bag,” but rest assured that maintaining masculinity with your bag is easy — it is all in the styling. There are hybrids, messengers, carryalls, totes, and every other kind of style that you can think of. There is a man-bag for any kind of man; you just has to find the one that is right.
1- Briefcase

Briefcases are probably the oldest form of “acceptable” handbags for men. Modern-day briefcases, however, have evolved a great deal since the days of your father’s sharp-cornered case. They’re no longer boxy; in fact, that’s about the only traditional element discarded in the modern briefcase. The classic shape (without the sharp corners), buckles, leather exterior, and practical interior compartments help make this bag a timeless addition to any working-man’s wardrobe.
Carry with: Business attire
2- Messenger bag

Aptly named, the messenger bag is designed after the bags traditionally carried throughout history by — whom else? — messengers. Often made from canvas and swung across the shoulder, messenger bags have taken on a whole new meaning in urban fashion. From students with canvas bags to urban hipsters with modern leather bags, the messenger’s laid-back style will always have a classic casual flair, but today’s leather messenger tote also exudes a hint of uptown sophistication.
Carry with: Slick street clothes
3- Holdall

Any traveling man needs a holdall for those weekend jaunts or three-day business trips. Big, bulky luggage has transformed into sleek, stylish holdalls (or carryalls). Its design is inspired by the duffel bag, but its predominantly leather exterior and more refined appearance attribute a classic look to this practical tote.
Carry with: Casual weekend wear, business-casual attire
4- Camera bag

A smaller version of the messenger bag, a camera bag is a longer rectangular bag that is meant to be strapped across the shoulders. Convenient for tourists, but good for any man on the go, a camera bag is a discreet but severely stylish way to lug around your belongings. What makes the camera bag stand out as a classic men’s bag is its ability to bring a touch of masculinity to an outfit, even if it is hanging from your shoulder. It’s a simple style with a whole lot of function.
Carry with: Leisure wear
5- Tote

A tote is the modern approach to the classic briefcase. Resembling an artisan’s bag, the tote is the utmost in casual business attire. Its basic design and usual soft leather exterior allots it a classic status, while its long handles give it a contemporary edge. If purchased in a chocolate brown or black, this bag can add a touch of laid-back masculinity to any casual work wear.
Carry with: Business-casual clothes
6- Newsboy bag

Like the advent of the newsboy cap, the newsboy bag is a classic style that has become synonymous with men’s casual wear. It’s similar to the messenger bag’s style, but its traditional canvas exterior makes it a little less formal than the latter. This bag style is perfect for the student on the go, as it makes a fashion statement and exudes more masculinity and style savvy than a knapsack.
Carry with: Campus-chic wear
via AskMen | AvidCourtesyLeague
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) announced today that the City of Norfolk, Virginia has been awarded the 2013-2015 MEAC Basketball Tournament. The 2013 Tournament is scheduled for March 11-16 and will be played at the Norfolk Scope Arena.
Mayor Paul D. Fraim of the City of Norfolk, MEAC Commissioner Dennis Thomas along with Norfolk Vice Mayor Anthony Burfoot and Norfolk City Councilman Paul Riddick are scheduled to make the official announcement to media and fans during a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 2 beginning at 11:45 a.m. at the Showcase Restaurant in the Norfolk Scope.
“We are excited to announce that the MEAC Council of Chief Executive Officers have selected Norfolk, Virginia as the host city for the 2013, 14, and 15 MEAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament,” said MEAC Commissioner Dennis Thomas. “We have enjoyed our tournament experience in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and look forward to another great tournament experience this year. We are grateful to Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines, the City Council Members, the Steering Committee members and Bucky Dame and his staff for providing an outstanding experience for the MEAC and our fans.”
Thomas added, “We anticipate the move to Norfolk will be yet another opportunity for our fans to enjoy competitive MEAC Division I basketball and be a part of March Madness in a great and progressive city.”
The City of Norfolk, home to MEAC institution Norfolk State University, is no stranger to hosting the annual basketball tournament. From 1991-1993 and again in 1997, the City of Norfolk served as the tournament’s host site.
“The City of Norfolk is pleased to welcome back the MEAC Basketball tournament for the next three years. With Norfolk State University and Hampton University, two leading schools in the MEAC Conference, within a 20 minute drive from the venue, Norfolk is a natural choice for hosting this prestigious tournament. This is a tremendous opportunity to welcome fans and players to our vibrant city. It is my hope that visitors throughout the week-long event will decide Norfolk is a destination to experience again and again,” says Mayor Paul D. Fraim.
“I’m thrilled to welcome the MEAC back to the City of Norfolk. Not only will the tournament provide an economic boost to our City but more importantly this partnership will enrich the lives of our youth through its college day outreach program that allows young people to enjoy a college experience for a day,” says Norfolk Vice Mayor Anthony Burfoot.
“The MEAC’s legacy keeps the rich history of our African-American colleges and universities alive. I am pleased Norfolk will play a vital role continuing this rich tradition,” says Norfolk City Councilman and Norfolk State University Alumni Paul Riddick.
The 2012 MEAC Basketball Tournament concludes the final year of the four-year partnership with the City of Winston-Salem. The 2012 Tournament is scheduled for March 5-10 at the Lawrence Joel Memorial Coliseum in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Sept. 8, at Arkansas-Pine Bluff*
Sept. 15, PRAIRIE VIEW A&M*
Sept. 22, at Texas Southern*
Sept. 29, GRAMBLING STATE*
Oct. 6, at Mississippi Valley State*
Oct. 13, ALCORN STATE*
Oct. 27, vs. Alabama State (Birmingham, Ala.)*
Nov. 3, SOUTHERN*
Nov. 10, at Jackson State*
Nov. 17, at Auburn
* – SWAC game
Courtesy of The Chicago Tribune.

Jason is starting to have feelings for Chardonnay, his wife whom he married during a drunken night in Tahiti. Chardonnay is different from the women Jason is usually attracted to, mainly because she is black. Chardonnay on the other hand, feels she and Jason should go their separate ways after the annullment. However, after Jason shows her how genuinely interested he is in her she decides to continue seeing him after the annullment.
At the Davis household, Melanie and Derwin are still trying to make a baby. Melanie has gone so far as to include “give me a baby” on the memo line of her offering checks for church. Derwin thinks Melanie is using God as a “genie” hoping He’ll grant her wishes and is disappointed in the new church Melanie has chosen for them.
At the new church, Melanie and Derwin have reserved seats in the V.I.P section of the church and the pastor holds up the service when the couple is running late. Derwin feels the V.I.P. section is more about celebrity than church, and despite Girl Melanie’s objections, they return to their old church where they now have to “sit in coach, with the regular people.” When there, they are bombarded with fans and people on the ‘down and out’ looking for a handout.
An elderly church member by the name of Celeste asks the congregation to pray for her and her family who have fallen on hard times. Melanie realizes how fortunate she is to be so blessed.
Guest stars of last night’s episode include Deery Davis and Irma P. Hall. Be sure to tune in for next week’s episode, “Drink, Pray, Love.”
Los Angeles (CNN) — Don Cornelius, the founder of the “Soul Train” television show, was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head Wednesday, authorities said. He was 75.
Cornelius died of a gunshot wound at a house on Mulholland Drive, said Los Angeles police Officer Tenesha Dodine. Police responded to the call about 4 a.m. (7 a.m. ET), Dodine said.
Cornelius was pronounced dead at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, according to Lt. Larry Dietz of the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office.
Los Angeles police investigators reported to the coroner that Cornelius died from a “self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head,” coroner’s Assistant Chief Ed Winter said. The coroner’s office will perform an autopsy to confirm the cause of death.
Cornelius created a pilot for “Soul Train” using $400 of his own money, according to the website biography.com. The show was named after a promotional event he put together in 1969, the site said.
Gladys Knight, who performed on the pilot of the show more than four decades ago, said Cornelius “opened up so many avenues for African-American artists.”
In an interview with CNN Wednesday, Knight said he appeared in ill health when she saw him recently.
“Last time I saw him, he was pretty sick,” Knight said. “He had lost a lot of weight, but he still had that thing about him.”
Singer Aretha Franklin called his death “so sad, stunning and downright shocking.”
“Don Cornelius single-handedly brought about a melding and unity of brother and sisterhood among young adults worldwide and globally with the unforgettable creation of ‘Soul Train,'” Franklin said.
Courtesy of CNN

