Buzz Killer: Drug Raid at Virginia State University

With a few days remaining until one of Virginia State’s most sought-after events: Homecoming 2011, the University began the week with troubling news.

Virginia State’s dormitories were investigated for marijuana Petersburg, VA .Virginia State University Police, alongside officers from Chesterfield, Colonial Heights and Virginia State Police agencies, conducted a drug sweep in the Quad, Moore, and Williams residence halls of Virginia State University.

More than 12 police vehicles were called in to investigate the drug raid. VSU officials are believed to have conducted the drug sweep out of a recent “uptick in judicial affairs activity involving drugs.”

Two students were arrested and will most likely face disciplinary actions proceeding from the university in addition to the criminal charges. Tom Reed, the University’s spokesman, said “We want to reinforce [that] we are zero tolerance campus.” Although rumors of 32 pounds of marijuana being confiscated erupted after the drug sweep, the two students were only charged for possession of marijuana with no current felonies pending.

According to Virginia State’s Alcohol/Substance Abuse Policy, the university recognizes substance abuse as a prevalent social issue and accepts its role and responsibility in helping to find solutions to this problem. The university is dedicated to the education of students and employees about the risks associated with the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Founded in 1882 as the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, and widely known as the first fully state supported four-year institution of higher learning for Blacks in America, Virginia State University recently attempted to “sweep away” its issues concerning drugs, along with reinforcing its zero tolerance course of action.

Fiscal support for HBCUs makes sense

The Republican-led House of Representatives and its near majority in the Senate want to shrink government. This season a GOP leader (Virginia’s very own Rep. Eric Cantor) recommended withholding domestic disaster aid because the emergency spending expanded government.

Now there’s news that GOP leaders want to cut Title III Higher Education funding, 40 percent of historically black colleges and universities’ (HBCUs) share of a $651 million pot, according to New America Foundation data. Such news normally might fly under the radar, but Hampton University President William R. Harvey was not about to let that proposed cut occur quietly. As chairman of the President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, Harvey was determined to fight to keep the funding. He also makes a case for why the funding works in America’s interest.

He laid out the Title III funding challenge to a standing-room crowd of 500 on the Saturday of the 51st annual Parent’s Weekend. Title III funding goes to institutions serving low-income and minority students, Title III, Harvey explained, are sound investments; they pay for infrastructure, technology that supports classroom education, and research and contract service that feed American economic engines.

Harvey said the threatened cuts come at time when HBCUs are under assault.

Since I’ve been teaching here I’ve been disappointed by mean-spirited, poorly researched and lazy shots fired at black colleges by so-called establishment experts. Take exhibit A, a Wall Street Journal op-ed essay last fall (Jason L. Riley’s “Black colleges need a new mission,” Sept. 28)

smeared 105 HBCUs with a broad brush.

Two years earlier, in the winter of 2008, Abigail and Stephan Thernstrom, again in the Wall Street Journal, recommended an end to funding at HBCUs that were less than 1 percent white.

The think-tank couple was shabbily informed: White enrollment has been increasing at many HBCUs, and in Hampton’s case, notably in its post-graduate programs.

HBCUs are not monolithic. Like mainstream campuses there are degrees of educational competence: About one third are excellent, the middle third are fair to good, and the last third need improvement.

Last year for-profit universities were championed by the business community, but many of these schools were exposed as financially wasteful mills that prey on nontraditional students and produce dubious educational results. The author of that 2010 Wall Street Journal attack on HBCUs wrote that the for-profits were a good alternative to HBCUs. Isn’t that special?

In making the case that cutting Title III funding would be penny-wise and pound-foolish, Harvey inventoried activity at HU that serves the region, nation and world and has earned government support:

• The Proton Therapy Institute, largest cancer treatment center in the world and eighth built in the U.S. and the only center in the mid-Atlantic region.

• The new Skin of Color Research Institute that is committed to producing sound research that provides answers that solves problems afflicting people from emerging nations in Africa and Asian, and yes American people of African and Asian descent. Harvey said the groundbreaking work has drawn interest from a top executive with Proctor & Gamble, because the company wants to expand its brands into those emerging markets.

• Harvey told parents that a top-level director from the National Institute of Health was amazed by the sound infrastructure on our campus. Funny, after six years here, I’m not surprised.

HU and other high-performing HBCUs are conducting research and service that saves and improves lives globally and domestically, in addition to the assumed responsibility of educating students in classrooms.

If Congress blindly cuts Title III support, the act could cripple billions of dollars of economic output plus innovations in research and technology.

Do cuts like that make any sense?

Dawkins is an assistant professor at Hampton University and winner of a 2011 Edward L. Hamm Teaching Excellence award.

Dillard University Theatre to Open 76th Season with “Mahalia,” a Gospel Musical

The Dillard University theatre program will open its 76th season this month with a six-performance run of “Mahalia,” a celebration of the life and work of gospel warrior Mahalia Jackson on the centennial of her birth. The show opens on Friday, Oct. 28 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 6 in Cook Theatre on the Dillard campus.

Jackson (1911-1972) rose from humble roots in New Orleans’ Black Pearl neighborhood to become the preeminent gospel singer of her day, captivating the nation and audiences worldwide with her distinctive voice and effervescent delivery. She is known for recordings such as “Elijah Rock,” “Precious Lord” and “We Shall Overcome.”

She was also a close friend of Martin Luther King Jr. and an important figure in the civil rights movement. She famously performed at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy as well as at King’s funeral. “A voice like hers comes along once in a millennium,” King once said of the beloved singer.

“We are thrilled to open our 76th anniversary season with such a moving show that provides a unique historical look at the life of Mahalia Jackson,” said Cortheal Clark, director of Dillard’s theatre program. “She was the world’s greatest gospel singer and the spiritual voice of the civil rights movement.”

The Dillard University production of “Mahalia” is directed by Troy R. Poplous from a book by Tom Stolz. Tickets are $15, and $10 for seniors and students. The Saturday, Nov. 5 performance is a special fundraiser for Friends of the Dillard University Theatre. This show will be preceded by a full dinner in the Professional Schools Building. Tickets to the dinner and show are $50. For more ticket information, please contact the Dillard University box office at (504) 816-4857.

Claflin University’s Jasmyne Barber Wins Orangeburg County Fair Art Competition

Jasmyne Barber wasn’t always into art. In fact, she only began cultivating her soon-to-be passion in the twilight of her senior year of high school.

Now, her work is winning over judges. Barber, a native of Montgomery, Maryland, took home the blue ribbon in the Orangeburg County Fair’s amateur art competition in early October. Her winning entry is an untitled painting depicting a landscape of bushes and trees.

“I never won first place for anything before,” said Barber, a studio art major.

Barber entered Claflin unsure of what she would study. After speaking to her pastor, Rev. Shane Wall of the Feast of the Lord Church in Orangeburg, she gave art a chance.

“I spoke to him and he said ‘God wanted me to use this’,” she said of Wall’s advice.

Barber said she had been working on this particular painting for some time. At the encouragement of Wall and Winston Kennedy, chair of the University’s Art Department, she submitted two entries into the fair competition.

“Jasmyne is a remarkably talented young artistic,” said Kennedy. “Her ability to visualize and create art far exceeds her years.”

Read Full article at Claflin University

Alabama State beats Prairie View 20-7; Hornets now 6-1, perfect in SWAC – Video

ASU's QB Greg Jenkins stiff arms PVAM's Marcus White during action between ASU and PVAM at Montgomery's Cramton Bowl, Saturday October 15, 2011. (David Campbell/ASU)

MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Nick Andrews became Alabama State’s all-time leader in receptions and his 34-yard touchdown reception helped the Hornets to a 20-7 win over Prairie View A&M Saturday afternoon at Cramton Bowl in matchup of division leaders in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

Andrews caught nine passes for 118 yards and one touchdown as Alabama State improved to 6-1 overall, 6-0 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference for the first time since the 2005 season. Prairie View (4-3, 4-2) had a three-game winning streak snapped.

Andrews caught the record-setting pass in the third quarter, surpassing Damon Hodge (176). Andrews now has 178 receptions for 2,429yards and an ASU record 26 touchdowns. He is just 108 yards shy of the Hornets’ receiving yards record.

“I want to give thanks to God first and foremost for winning the game,” Andrews said. “Without the offensive line and quarterbacks I’ve played with, I wouldn’t have the record. I thank them for that.”

Read Full Article AL.COm

Grambling State University Welcomes Students to its 2011 High School Day

Miss Grambling State University poses with students and faculty at 2011 High School Day (Kimberly Monroe)

On Saturday morning at 6:30 a.m. students and faculty of Grambling State University united to partake in the 2011 high school day. High schools started arriving at around 7:30 and after registration they were taken on tours around the campus. Cities such as Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth, Lake Charles and various others were represented. Some buses carried more than high school students. Many had parents, GSU alumni and middle school students all looking forward to the day ahead.

The day continued with everyone meeting at the Fredrick C. Hobdy assembly center. Departments set up tables around the arena for visitation. Department heads, professors and some students provided high school students with information in their major of inquiry. Grambling offers over 60 undergraduate programs which all share in preparing one for a successful career.

The entertainment portion of the day began at 11:15. Music from DJ Twin filled the room as everyone gathered in the arena. Along with excitement and smiles on the faces of the future Gramblinites there was a large number of dancing. DJ Twin asked for one student from each school to represent in a dance battle. Cheers flooded the room as the music started and the dancing began.

President Pogue greeted students, with high hopes that all the students visiting would return as students soon, gave greetings. Miss Grambling, Jamesia Leonard, delivered her welcome to the students, in addition to introducing her royal court. Channing Gaulden’s president of the Student Government Association, salutation followed.

The hype that people had traveled far to see was finally here, the World Famed tiger marching band. With drum majors leading, the orchesis dance company and the band marched to the loud thumps from the percussion section. The sounds overflowed with the “tiger fightsong”, “neck”, and the crowd favorite: the GSU chant. It was a thrilling experience.

Tiger cheerleaders then took the stage, conveying energy and pep to the entire arena. With their creative pyramids and stunts, the ladies and men wowed the crowd. Praises were generated throughout the cheerleaders’ performance.

As lunch was served, the Chemistry club demonstrated two experiments and Black Dynasty modeling troupe provided brief entertainment.

The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc and the men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc made a large impact as they strolled in the middle of the arena. Along with Skee- Phi, the society of Distinguished Black Women and Kappa Kappa Psi band fraternity represented the non- Greeks.

As the first part of the day came to a close, I spoke with high school senior Gaylan Green from Slidell. “ It was wonderful, I can’t wait to attend. I plan on majoring in theatre and being a part of the yearbook and Gramblinite newspaper”, she responded when asked abouther first experience at Grambling.

Chris Nevells, a high school junior from Lake Charles said “I like Grambling, I want to major in music, and I play percussion and guitar.”

The game kickoff started at 4:00, against Concordia College. Halftime was a success as the band brought fans to their feet once again.

As GSU took the win, beating Concordia 44-0, the day came to an end. High school day was a awesome experience for all who contributed. It’s always great to see current students and faculty teaming up to continue the legacy of this institution “where everybody is somebody.”

Kimberly Monroe
HBCU Buzz Staff Writer

Recap: Central State University Homecoming 2011

Central State University, Ohio’s only public Historically Black University, celebrated Homecoming on its historic grounds throughout the week of October 10-15. From memorable events such as the Pep Rally: Stop the Violence, Increase the Peace and the Midnight Soul Bonfire to Central State’s Step Show and its Homecoming Party, students, alumni and several visitors enjoyed the festive week; acknowledging 125 years of excellence in higher education.

 

Thomas “Zeus” Hall – Alcorn State Coach Killed in a Fatal Car Accident

Thomas "Zeus" Hall

Strength & Conditioning Coach Alcorn State Thomas Hall Killed early this morning October 16, 2011 involved in a fatal car accident.  The former strength and conditioning head coach at Southern University was killed shortly after midnight Sunday when he drove into a train that was crossing U.S. 61 just north of Thomas Road. The State Police said Thomas Hall, 40, of Baton Rouge, was driving on U.S. 61 when he crashed into a Kansas City Southern engine. Hall was pronounced dead at the scene, State Police said. The train crossing had working bells and lights to signal the train, the police said.

Trina Dunn said;

He was an AWESOME coach and one of the best human beings walking this earth. He is responsible for my weight loss and healthy lifestyle.

Thomas Hall entered his first season the Alcorn State University Braves Strength and Conditioning Coach. Hall is responsible for the physical development of Alcorn student-athletes, training all Athletic Programs.

Thomas “Zeus” Hall served as Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach under the Great noted Head Coach Billy C. Long, whose physical fitness Philosophy helped aid the St. Louis Rams become the 2000 Super Bowl Champions. Hall served under Coach Danny Morris as “The Enforcer” for the Strength and Conditioning program that helped bring Southern University back to the top of SWAC in 2003 with a Championship, and a return trip to Birmingham in 2004.

More information to come…

FAMU Alumni Breaking New Ground with The Cravings Truck

Young, Black Entrepreneurs make their mark in Florida’s Capital City

By: Tauheedah Shukriyyah Asad

In today’s unstable economy, young African Americans like Kianta Key and Johnathan Sellers are creating their own job opportunities. The two trailblazers made waves in Florida’s capital city by putting a unique twist on a familiar concept. In August 2010, the Florida A&M University alums launched “The Cravings Truck”, a mobile food unit known for its signature chicken and red velvet waffles.

Capitalizing on the growing influence of social media and technology, co-owners Key and Sellers have quickly made a name for themselves in Tallahassee’s food industry. “In a city that wasn’t familiar with food trucks we knew it would be important to be engaging,” said Sellers. “We use social networking tools like Twitter and Facebook to tweet our location, promote new menu items, communicate with our followers. Some people will even tweet in their orders.”

Radio personality and Program Director, Sean-D said the Cravings Truck is a big hit with Tallahassee radio listeners. “People are always talking about the Cravings Truck. I know I try to get out there as much as I can,” said Sean-D. “I think the response has been so huge because you can tell Kianta and Johnathan aren’t just about the money. It’s a business of course, but they give back and they have a real connection with the people in the community. And that’s why we support them”.

Today, business is booming for The Cravings Truck. The company has a constant stream of catering requests, and support from the community. However, Key said it was a long journey to get to them to get to this point. “Our first day we made a grand total of $75. We were so sad,” she said. “Emotionally it was tough because Johnathan and I are in a relationship, and working with your partner can be challenging at times but thankfully I think we’ve gotten through the worst of it.”

During the first month of operation the couple faced unexpected obstacles including issues with city ordinances, accidents in the kitchen, and broken equipment “There was a curve ball thrown at us every single day for the first three months. Things you would never think of,” Sellers said. “I’ve suppressed a lot of it because it was so depressing.” Keys recalls naming the food truck Lazarus because it kept “dying and coming back to life.”

According to the dynamic duo, being in a position to have success as socially responsible entrepreneurs and serve the community has been worth the trials and tribulations. Since opening its doors the small business owners have donated more than $2,000 to help charities and student groups on FAMU’s campus.

In the future, the power couple has plans to expand their fleet of food trucks and relaunch Freedom Theory Clothing, a successful t-shirt line started as undergrads. In the meantime they continue to pursue graduate degree while encouraging young African Americans to redefine the “American Dream”.

“If you have a good idea, run with it. But at the same time plan it out. Our business plan is a living document. It wakes us up every morning and is constantly being revised. Its one thing to have a business plan, but its another thing to actually run a business. There will be bad moments, but you can’t sulk in them.”

For more information about The Cravings Truck visit, http://cravingstruck.com/

 

Tauheedah Shukriyyah Asad is a writer, activist and social commentator from Miami, Florida. Contact her at tauheedahasad@gmail.com, or follow her on Twitter, @respectmyname.

My Final Homecoming as an Undergraduate Student

Homecoming won't be the same as an alumni, but the love is still there (Victor Harper)

Homecoming is a grand celebration at universities across the nation. The name alone gives everyone a rush as they return to their roots to show their love for their alma mater. This is an extremely spectacular event if you attend a HBCU. Family, friends, and proud alumni travel far and wide to attend the highly anticipated homecoming activities that prestigious institutions of higher learning focused primarily on African American students host. With events such as coronations of the University King and Queen, stepshows, on campus parties for students, and alumni gatherings at hotels, there is quite a bit of excitement on the yard during homecoming week. Alumni showed up and showed out, making it known that they are indeed “STEEL IN LOVE WITH VUU.”

This year on the hallowed grounds of Virginia Union University proved to be no different. On Monday, October 3rd, there was a kickoff that consisted of a cookout on the yard (which was moved inside the student center due to inclement weather) and a pep rally. There was a DJ spinning tunes, having everyone in the groove to a mixture of current and classic hits. Our SGA was selling “Panther Packages” for the homecoming events.

Mr. and Miss Virginia Union University gave a message to the student body to get us pepped up for what the week was going to bring. The Rah-Rah’s (our cheerleaders) performed a few cheers, and head coach Michael Bailey and the football team were in attendance as well. Coach Bailey and starting quarterback and team captain Cheston Hickman gave some encouraging words that surely boosted everyone’s school spirit and Panther Pride.

Tuesday night was the fashion show, “Til Death Do Us Part” which featured our own modeling troupe, AckroVinci. The fashion featured in the show was made by members of the troupe and local designer of upcoming clothing brand Hollywood cemetery based in Richmond, Britt Sebastian. The fashion show was definitely a crowd pleaser, of course this is no surprise because this is what AckroVinci dedicates themselves to practices that last several hours to perfect their moves. As a team, the troupe choreographed the show themselves and I am extremely proud of my peers.

Wednesday was the VUU Music Video Awards Impersonation Show, and what an awards show it was! We had guests perform such as TLC, Missy Elliott, Beyonce, MMG recording artists Rick Ross, Meek Millz and Wale, and the late Ray Charles and Notorious BIG.

Thursday was an eventful day for me. As a member of the Virginia Union University Royal Court serving as Miss Senior 2011-2012, I had to prepare for the night’s coronation activity -after ­class of course! After class, I headed to the mall to meet my fellow class queens and our University queen to get my makeup done. I was extremely excited for the night’s festivities. Later that evening, we met early so we could get dressed and primped for the evening. The coronation was beautiful, as King Trent T. Miller and Queen Rachetta (Shay) Moss waltzed in to a jazz beat played by a live band as one of the music professors serenaded us with her opera style vocals.

After President Claude G. Perkins and First Lady Sheryl Perkins crowned the King and Queen and the closing remarks were said, the Royal Court and the immediate past King and Queen lead the processional to the Royal Reception. It was a classy event in which the Court got the chance to fellowship with family, friends, faculty, and staff. A live band was also there providing a wonderful ambiance as enjoyed dinner and played upbeat tunes to shake a tailfeather and simultaneously enjoy a slight workout.

Friday morning was convocation –the first event the graduating seniors got a chance to wear our caps and gowns and were recognized by in front of the University, family, friends, and guests. The keynote speaker was Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, VUU Class of 1979 and currently the chairman on the board of trustees. He delivered a powerful message on staying strong in faith as well as using the power of your will to get up and serve your purpose. That evening was the long awaited and highly anticipated Greek Stepshow. This is an event that I find hard to sum up the greatness of because it completely took my breath away.

I would have to say my favorite part of the night was watching my King and Queen step for their respective organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Gamma Chapter) and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Beta Epsilon Chapter). I had lost my voice cheering them on as well as my other friends who performed that night. I beamed with pride knowing the hard work and dedication they put into their shows, especially with both of their organizations winning first place that night. Special props to Queen Shay for going through coronation and the stepshow with a minor ankle sprain! After the stepshow, there was a “gymjam” featuring music by Richmond’ own DJ Rayvon. I must say, I enjoyed myself to the fullest despite the bittersweet reality of this being the final homecoming gym jam I would be attending.

Saturday morning, I rose bright and early after only a few short hours of sleep, hearing my best friend’s voice saying “you don’t sleep during homecoming!” That motivated me to get out of my bed and go over my checklist because as the old adage says, the show must go on! I got dressed and ready for the parade. I had no jitters until the moment my King helped me into our corvette so I could sit on the “t”. He held my hand silently in support as we waited for our cue that the parade was about to begin. It was a great experience to see family and friends as the parade processed on. My heart was also warmed by countless strangers cheering me on as well! We were local celebrities! A baby even blew me a kiss! That was one of the most memorable moments of the parade for me.

This year, nationally renowned gospel recording artists Trin-I-Tee 5:7 served as the parade grand marshal. They also sung the National Anthem live before our football game began. After halftime, we were allowed to venture off with our families. After countless photo opportunities, I led my family across the street to experience tailgating -VUU style! There were tents everywhere, many had DJs ­-one even shouted me out because I was still donned in my dress birdcage and sash. There were merchants selling food, jewelry, clothing, Greek paraphernalia, and many other trinkets. Greeks were at their tents doing their thing and fellowshipping with brothers and sisters both young and old, yet with the same undying love for their organizations.

Sadly, my team was defeated by Elizabeth City State University 43-41 in TRIPLE overtime –yes, you read correctly TRIPLE! I still admire my peers for staying strong and playing until there were triple zeros on the scoreboard. PANTHER PRIDE (RAWR)!!!

Ending the week was the Gospel Experience titled “Still in Love with JESUS!” This was an exceptional way to end the week’s festivities—with praise! This is another event I find difficult to put into words. You truly had to be there to understand that as a Baptist university, Virginia Union always has an activity that ties into our Christian roots. The Holy Spirit was moving in the Allix Bledsoe James Chapel, also known as Coburn Hall, and all of the acts were wonderful.

We had several guests to bless our presence with their talents including Sisterly Grace Praise Dancers, Ty Francis, Pamela Johnson -a Virginia Union Alum, and the Black Awakening Choir from our neighboring university, Virginia Commonwealth. Of course the Virginia Union University Gospel Choir tore the house down with a grand finale.

Although this is the closing of one chapter of my journey, I am positive that I will enjoy my first homecoming as alumni next year. Hopefully by then I will meet my goal and have the coveted title of Young Alumnus of the Year. My HBCU has definitely helped me grow and mold me into the woman I know I was destined to be. The great tradition of homecoming that occurs on the campuses at these exceptional institutions that we call HBCU’s shall live on forever.

Nadejah Whitted

HBCU Buzz Staff

Aussie & Davis – Unique Sophisticated Style Influencing Everyone

Jeffery Mark, Aaron Coad and Shannon Jean-Louis didn’t wait on their degree to launch their own business. Aussie & Davis specializes in high-end casual/semi-formal unisex accessories, hailing out of Washington, DC. Affordable to every college student, these innovative accessories emphasize color, design and comfort.

When asked how did they get the name Aussie & Davis, Shannon Jean-Louis replied, “It came from God. It’s stands for A Unique Sophisticated Style Influencing Everyone and Dedicated to Advocating Various Individual Standouts.”

The three Howard University students began brainstorming this idea back in 2008 and introduced it to the world in 2010. They originally wanted to start with a t-shirt line but due to budget issues they decided to start Aussie & Davis’s buzz with unisex beaded bracelets. Their ultimate goal is longevity, being the “next big thing in fashion” by expanding their brand to apparel.

The biggest misconception people have about Aussie & Davis is that they’re just a jewelry line, but you can be sure to look out for their apparel line! Aussie & Davis advice given from the trio is “Don’t jump into the water, if you don’t know how to swim. Stay hungry, patient, keep your faith and grind hard.”

KSU Thorobreds Defeat FVSU Wildcats 25-24 at KSU’s Homecoming

Chased by Fort Valley defenders, Kentucky State University's Jacquise Lockett runs in for a touchdown during the game Saturday at Alumni Stadium. (Hannah Reel/hreel@state-journal.com)

Frankfort, KY (October 8, 2011) – The Thorobreds battled their way past the Fort Valley Wildcats with a 25-24 victory Saturday afternoon. The victorious game was an addition to KSU celebrating 125 years of excellence.

Kentucky State elected to receive the ball for the first half. The Thorobreds were unsuccessful on their opening drive of the game. The Wildcat’s offense moved quickly in their first possession of the game. Travis Richmond had a 6 yard touchdown run with 12:14 left in the first quarter of the game. Kicker, Justin Rosenbaum capped off the possession with a successful kick.

The Thorobred offense speed slightly kicked up when freshman, Jacquise Lockett rushed for a 44 yard touchdown. Cade Berryman kick was successful to tie the score with 5:12 left in the first quarter. Christopher Slaughter of  the Wildcats finished off the first quarter with a reception from Rashad Johnson which resulted in a touchdown. Rosenbaum completed the drive with another successful kick. With 3:29 left in the first half, Fort Valley’s Rashad Johnson rushed for a yard that resulted in a touchdown with a successful kick followed up by Rosenbaum making the score 21-7 at the half.

The second half began slowly for both teams. Quarterback, Martez James rushed for a one yard touchdown with 6:47 left. Berryman’s kick was blocked which left the score 21-13 at the end of the third quarter with the Breds trailing Fort Valley.

The Thorobred defense  held steady in the fourth quarter and limited the Wildcats to a field goal for the remaining of the game. Lockett showed more of his running game when he  rushed for a 49 yard touchdown with 7:50 remaining on the clock. The offense’s two-point conversion failed leaving the score 24-19 with the Breds still trailing the Wildcats.

With a quick three and out from Fort Valley, KSU’s offense went back on the field setting up for a victory. James faked a handoff to a running back and instead rushed for 17 yards himself only leaving 2:07 on the clock for retaliation from the Wildcats.

Fort Valley attempted to set them up for field goal range but the Breds stopped them. Senior Keith Massey intercepted a pass at KSU’s 14 yard line which claimed Kentucky State University’s homecoming victory.

With the win, the Kentucky State University Thorobreds 4-2 on the season and 1-2 in the SIAC. For the Breds’ next game they travel to Fairfield, AL, on Saturday, October 15, 2011 to play Miles College AT 7:00 P.M.

By Danielle Wright

All Photos couresty of Hannah Reel (hreel@state-journal.com)

Recap: Virginia Union University- Steel in Love with You

 Virginia Union University celebrated its Homecoming on the weekend of October 6-8 on its historic campus. The theme of VUU’s homecoming was “Steel in Love with You”, and it was definitely a love affair for VUU students, alumni and the Richmond community. Although the Panthers enjoyed a festive Homecoming this year, the VUU football team lost to Elizabeth City State University on Saturday by the score of 43-41 in triple overtime. Nevertheless, VUU had an amazing Homecoming!

All Photos Courtesy of Victor Harper