The Bent Tree - May edition

www.benttreenews.org May 2012CSU’s Student Newspaper

Volume 46 • Issue 03

BENT TREEthe

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

Students Get First-Hand Government LessonChairman, Clayton County Board of Commissioners

visits CSU. Pg 2

TAMIKA GALANIS/ THE BENT TREE

Greek Week Activities

Page 4

Mr. Pink andGreenPage 6

MusicReviewPage 9

Senior Spotlight0

As a student run publication, our goal is to entertain, educate and inform the campus, while also providing an opportunity for students to develop and enhance their journalistic skills. We strive to promote balanced reporting, while offering a platform for students to share opinions and concerns

with the student body.

M i s s i o n S t a t e m e n t

The Bent Tree Newspaper encourages letters to the editor, as well as story ideas and

submissions.

To do so, submit your letter in 200 words or less in an email to [email protected].

The Newspaper Office is located in the Student Activities Center, Room 205. You can reach us

at 678-466-5436.

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www.benttreenews.org

May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03

NewsEditors

Editor-in-ChiEfTamika Galanis

Managing Editor

Michel Zambo

assignMEnts Editor

Jacinta Ragland

PHOTO EDITOR“Blake” White

staff WritErsAaron Adams

Alexander BrownBrittany Bryan

Mario FelizBrittney Robinson

PhotograPhErsMike McCray

Brittney Robinson

Contributors to this EditionJoseph EcholsNick Kilburg

Clayton State University Theatre

faCulty advisorDr. Randy Clark

[email protected]

studEnt MEdia advisorJennifer DeMond

[email protected]

BENT TREEthe

Eldrin Bell Visits POLI 1101By Alexander BrownStaff Writer

For those who don’t have the slight-est idea about what Clayton State University has been up to the past month for Political Science 1101; I will be glad to tell you. On April 3rd, a group of political science stu-dents from Dr. Mattie’s 1101 class went to the Clayton County Board of Commissioners meeting to see how federalism is distributed across the county government. Upon arrival, the chairman and the four district heads gave a standing ovation to the students that went. I was one of the eight that went to the meeting, for an extra credit assign-ment that is. The Chairman Eldrin Bell was enthusiastic to engage young minds that he extended the invitation to come to the uni-versity and speak to our class for the day. When I returned to class, I proposed the idea to my professor and we both reached out to the Chairman. On April 23, Eldrin Bell shared his knowledge of and passion for local govern-ment. Chairman Bell is the former Deputy Chief of Police in Atlanta; he has worked with the FBI and the Secret Service since in the late 1960’s. Besides climbing the ranks in his respective branch of government, he is also a graduate of Harvard University Law School. Bell addressed student concerns about C-Tran by explaining why the transit

system was eliminated. He encouraged stu-dents to stand up for issues they believe in. Among other things, Chairman Bell shared that he is currently working on a Federal Grant for STEM technology for students and that he also has a vision for more Magnet Schools in the county which would facilitate specialized areas of study for students. Chairman Bell’s STEM grant focuses on education in the areas of Science, Technol-ogy, Engineering and Mathematics. Chairman Bell challenged us to think holistically about the people we vote into office; he wants us to know their backgrounds. He shared with us that he has an open-door policy and often encourages county residents to contact him directly if a resolution cannot be reached otherwise. He shared his views about extra-legal sanctions because he feels everyone deserves a chance at employment, especially after the government has worked hard to rehabilitate them. Meeting Chairman Bell was a memo-rable experience; I am elated that I was able to facilitate his appearance for my class. I strongly recommend that all the students of this university reach out to the community and find someone who can demonstrate leadership, success and intelligence for your-self and your colleagues.



3May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03

News

CSU Focuses on Diversity: Culture By Brittany BryanStaff Writer

During the last week of March, the students and faculty at Clayton State had the opportunity to experi-ence the ultimate culture shock. Activi-ties and a showcase took place during “Culture Shock Week 2012”. This week focused on exposing students to the diversity on campus. On March 29, the showcase took place on the Student Activites Center (SAC) Green. There were dancers and multiple stations set up with food from around the world. The African food station offered tilapia and red rice, while the exotic food sta-tion offered seaweed salad and octo-pus. Along with the showcase, there was The Tunnel of Oppression in the SAC Ballrooms, which exhibited oppres-sion in today’s society. Two students acted as tour guides and narrators as they led groups to different scenarios. The first scenario was a woman with no health insurance who couldn’t get fair medical attention. Did you know

that 44 million people in this country have no health insurance and 38 mil-lion people have inadequate insurance? There were many more scenarios including a bullying scene. Something that stood out was the wall filled with racial slurs such as “Nigger” and “Wet-back”. While standing in front of so many hateful words, what made them more offensive labels was that they were aimed at us. It was a real eye-opener to experience the harassment that many have to endure. At the end of The Tunnel of Oppression, the group was directed to another room to discuss how they felt about everything that they experienced in the tour. It was a great way to give reactions and get advice from Counseling and Psy-chological Services. At the end of the day, we must come together to end oppression in our society.

CSU Theatre PresentsBy Brttany BryanStaff Writer

Clayton State Theatre presented the hilarious musical, “I Love you, You’re Perfect, Now Change” and it was a blast to watch. The production was directed by Shontelle Thrash and had ten cast members: Darius Booker, Adam Dunn, Da-

vid Henry, Tamara Marshall, Anissa Matlock, David Phil-lips, Rineka Rob-ingson, LaDonna Williams, Colby Wilson, and Angel Woods. The musi-cal was a great representation of people coping with being single, facing rejection, staying in love, or simply people looking for love in the all the wrong places. Opening night

was on April 12 and a crowd stood at the theatre door to enter at 7:30. There were students and non-students among the crowd. The crowd was filled with young and old as well as single and married. Soon the houselights were turned down

and the prologue began. The cast came out from the back of the house in white robes and the show began. It was a good introduction for the musical. Throughout the play different scenarios were presented. In the opening scene, “Cantana For A First Date” two women and two men prepare for that nerve-wracking first date. You know, the one where you have to make sure you’re perfect in order to impress the other person? In the scene, “ Not Tonight, I’m Busy Busy Busy,” Stan and Pat both are too busy to accommodate dates into their schedule so they fast-forward to future dates with their perception of how the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th dates normally end. “A Stud and A Babe” was dorky but cute. “Shouldn’t I Be Less In Love With You” was one of the more serious scenes. Colby Wilson played a husband who was sitting across from his wife at the table and reflected on the year. The song in that scene mentioned how many thought they wouldn’t last but still he loves her no less. That scene had the audience filled with, “Aws”. Then there was, “The Very First Dating Video of Rose Ritz” with Tamara Marshall as Rose, a divorced woman with a bit of a blabbermouth. Even though her husband left her and she had many bad days, she decided that life goes on. In fact, Rose making her first dating video in that scene was step one of her comeback. There were many more comical scenes that dealt with guys seeing “chick flicks” with girlfriends, waiting for him/her to make that move, getting that first phone call, and adapting to married life. It revolved around how we find someone that we love, someone we think is perfect, and we spend the rest of our lives trying to change that person. The music and the singing were incredible. There was a lot of time and hard work put into this produc-tion and it really paid off. The standing ovation at the end said it all. Good job to everyone who helped to make, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” a suc-cess.

*Photo from “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” courtesy of the Clayton State University Theatre.

4 May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03

Newswww.benttreenews.org

Theta Phi Alpha Presents: Phire and Ice By Jacinta RaglandAssignments Editor

Theta Phi Alpha Greek Week took over the campus during the week of April 9 through the 13 with a Theta Phi extravaganza! The ladies put on a week of fun-filled events, demonstrations of excellent service skills, and family fun for everyone! The Fraternity of Theta Phi Alpha is known as one of the largest Greek letter organizations on the Clayton State University campus. They continue to commit to volun-teerism for their school, in community and with fellow Greek letter organizations. Theta Phi Alpha week kicked off with “Chill Fest” cookout filled with delicious food, fun family-oriented games, POP the Penguin, and a surprise stroll off to introduce their newest members: the Eta Class of Spring 2012! The ladies moved with precision and skill as they stepped out and pre-sented themselves to the school and other Greek organiza-tions. Music and laughter filled the air and bellies were full from the intense Watermelon Eating Contest that took place between some of the students and other Greek members. On Tuesday April 10, Theta Phi Alpha hosted Casino Royale, an event where students had the opportunity to get a taste of Vegas! The eagerness and anticipation circled around the tables, as chips were thrown out and cards flipped to reveal their secrets! On Thursday April 12, Theta Phi Alpha showed their colors by hosting a table on University Center Main Street to raise money for Child Abuse Awareness. Anyone who donated one dollar to go toward the victims of Child Abuse, received a blue ribbon. The Theta Phi’s raised $150 dollars. Congratulations to the new members of Theta Phi Alpha! I only hope as a sister and student that we continue to grow as a Fraternity and sisterhood of successful women and educated students.

MICHEL ZAMBO/ THE BENT TREE

Want to work for the Bent Tree?

Contact us at [email protected]

Pictures from “Phire and Ice” weekOn right: Kish Ma, Willena Roger, Shanna Weaver of The-ta Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.Below: Codie Richardson of Alpha Kappa Lambda, Jacinta Ragland of Theta Phi Alpha, and Roger (“Blake”) White of Alpha Kappa Lambda.Far Below: Members of the Sigma Sigma chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

5May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03


Campus Events Council: Spring Fling 2012By Brittany BryanStaff Writer

To celebrate another semester, the Campus Events Council (CEC) hosted Spring Fling 2012. Many activities and events took place during the week of April 9-13. The official “Game On” event was held on April 12 from 5-9pm in the Student Activities Center Game Room and on the Green. It was not only great for students but for children also. The weather was nice and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Refreshments were served and were gone in no time. There were many games to choose from, including Laser Tag, Fruit Ninja, Giant Twister, Madden Challenge, Poker, Spades, Black Jack, and Just Dance 2. Prizes were also given away, mak-ing the games more competitive. Students danced festively to the music provided by DJ Tay. The following day was the Big Foam Party and stu-dents had a blast in the foam. Many students were sitting under the trees enjoying the view. The foam may have been the highlight, but there was also a Spider Jump and Mock Tails. Both events were free to Clayton State students. These great outdoor events gave students a time to chill out and catch up with friends. The Spring Fling 2012 was a great way to end the semester before the dreaded week of finals.


6 April 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 02


On Friday, April 6, ticket-holders were in for a real treat. The ladies of the Sigma Sigma chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. put on quite a produc-tion when they brought us the second annual Mr. Pink and Green Pageant. The production began with a mock news-cast in which a reporter an-nounced that the President was arriving. Suddenly, last year’s pageant winner, Colby Wilson arrived, surrounded by his entourage and took the stage to wel-come everyone. Not long after that, all six contestants: Kenneth McFar-land, Corenza Morris, Chris-tian Reynolds, C.J. Banks, Tevin Smith and Ryan Wilk-erson greeted the audience. Immediately following the introduction of the con-testants, we were greeted by our hostesses for the evening, Alexis Griffin and Savannah Douglas. The la-dies then briefly introduced the judges for the evening’s event. The first segment was a swimsuit competition of sorts, where contestants

showed off their beach-ready physiques. C.J. Banks was the clear winner of this por-tion of the pageant, given the reaction of the crowd when he appeared on stage. Not to be outdone, Christian Reynolds was the leading contender in the “Mr. Pil-low Talk” Pajama Scene. The

junior fed his scene co-star strawberries and gave her a massage on stage, much to the admiration of the ladies in the audience. When asked what his favorite part of the experi-ence of competing in this pageant was, Christian com-mented, “I enjoyed the prac-tices. I always enjoy making new friends.” “Mr. Showtime” was

the talent portion of the pageant. It was difficult to identify who had the stron-gest talent among so many talented contestants. Ryan Wilkerson mimed to gospel hit “Imagine Me”; Tevin Smith recited a self-written poem about the Trayvon Martin incident; Corenza Morris also

performed a spoken word piece. However, the highlight of the talent portion was C.J. Banks’ rousing R&B vocal performance. What was most surprising is that the Mr. Pink and Green Pageant marks the first time the senior mar-keting major, had sung pub-licly. During his interview with The Bent Tree, C.J. Banks revealed, “I’ve never

had the confidence to sing in front of a crowd. So now I feel that I have conquered a task that I have longed for.” The frontrunner in the following segment, “Mr. GQ”, was not up for debate. The crowd’s favorite was clearly Corenza Morris, who was

sharply attired. Although, later in the evening, it was Kenneth McFarland who outshone his competition dur-ing the extempo-raneous speaking portion of the pageant. As the judge’s votes were tallied, the audience was encouraged to jump on stage and dance. Af-ter the crowd enjoyed a few dance hits, Pag-eant Coordinator, Martha Andrade announced Chris-tian Reynolds as

the first runner up. Directly after that, C.J. Banks was crowned the new reigning Mr. Pink and Green. When asked what he is looking forward to the most during his stint, Mr. Banks replied, “To carry on my platform, which is youth mentoring.”

AKA Sorority Presents: Mr. Pink and GreenByMario Féliz-GuillenStaff Writer

The Student’s New Source for Clayton State University:www.benttreenews.org

JOSEPH ECHOLS/CSU

7April 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 02


NewsBy Brittney RobinsonStaff Writer

National Student Employment Week

Food, games, and school spirit were a few of the things that took place April 9 through April 13 during National Stu-dent Employment Week sponsored by the Office of Career Services. The week was dedicated to the students employed at Clayton State University, to celebrate their hard work and dedication. The week began with the Monday Kick-Off, where cake was served and students could take a picture with the infamous Loch mascot on the Quad. Tuesday was Depart-ment Day, where departments showed their appreciation to student employees by decorating doors, bulletin boards, and giving gifts in order to say, “Thank you.” Wednesday was the tasty Chick-fil-A Resume Day, where students could visit the Student Center to have their resumes reviewed, and in return receive some Chick-fil-A snacks. Then, Thursday be-gan with Pop-A-Palooza, where representatives from Career Services were passing out buttery fresh popcorn and sweet tea to students. Finally, Friday was the Raffle Drawing, where the winners were announced on “Jobs!Jobs!Jobs!”. Those who won received a $50 gift card to Best Buy. The week left student employees feeling appreciated for their hard-work and diligence.

BRITTNEY ROBINSON/ THE BENT TREE

8 May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03


Opinion Student Style Spotlight

ByMario Féliz-GuillenStaff Writer

When I consider candidates for this column, I insist they offer something I don’t see very often. This was certainly the case when it came to Elliot Proust. Since, he is an interna-tional student, it’s only natural that this selection for The Bent Tree’s fashion feature stand out in a crowd. Elliot immediately struck me as someone who had a flair for fashion. I originally spotted Elliot in a pink scarf with matching loafers. I thought to myself, his pension for drama seemed very European. My assumption was confirmed when I ap-proached the 19 year-old Political Science major to be fea-tured in The Bent Tree. It turns out that Elliot hails from Nev-ers, France. Since, he is so far away from home and Atlanta could never be considered one of the world’s fashion capitals, I couldn’t wait to ask Elliot where he shops. “My favorite store is Zara. We have a lot in Europe but not so many in the US. Sometimes H&M [has] some good stuffs. The key is to know how to match the clothes,” was Elliot’s reply. It seems like Elliot would agree that his look tends to lean toward the grandiose. When asked how he would describe his style in three words, Elliot replied, “Different, audacious, and original.” I’d like to add the word refined to this list of adjectives. Elliot has the rare ability to put together outfits that are dramatic without venturing into looking like he’s wearing a costume. His looks are always corralled with an understated elegance that encourages you to appreciate his daring choices that much more. If you would allow me to paraphrase the great Coco Chanel, one can be over styled but never over elegant. Elliot is a solid example to support that argument.

BLAKE WHITE/ THE BENT TREE

Faculty SpotlightBy Brittney RobinsonStaff Writer

Dr. Khedija Gadhoum is a Spanish professor at Clayton State University, who believes firmly that everyone deserves a free education. When she teaches her students she has a way of mak-ing them feel at ease in the classroom. She takes her students under her wing and connects with them on a personal level. She was born in Tunisia, Africa and went to the University of Tunis. Later, in 1989, she moved to America after studying in Madrid, Spain. Dr. Gadhoum speaks French, Arabic, English, Spanish, and Tunisian. She has taught at Ohio State, Pennsylvania, and also in Michigan. One of her many passions is writing. Recently, she had some of her poetry published. Dr. Gadhoun enjoys creating docu-mentary films that educate people on events to which they are unaware. She also enjoys traveling and going to museums. Like many of us, Dr. Gadhoum loves food. She is open to try anything from Jamaican to Asian cuisine. Her taste in music varies also. One minute she may listen to a sultry song from South America and the next she may be rocking out to punk music. By teaching in different states, she has become more mature and has realized how diverse our country truly is. She is passionate about being an educator and hopes to have a rippling effect on whoever she teaches. When asked what inspired her to become a Spanish professor, she gave a small anecdote of her favorite English teacher in grade school. She said that she made all her students feel as if they were her children. Dr. Gadhoum states that in order to genuinely be a good teacher one should “Be humble and not obnoxious.”

Opinionwww.benttreenews.org

9May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03

What Music Do You Keep in Heavy Rotation?

“Mastadon, Jesus Lizard, Shellac,” Karl Egsieker- Senior

“Sexy Movimiento by Winsin y Yandel,” Alexandra Destin- Freshman

“Gotta Have It by Kanye West & Jay-Z,” Amenan Ball- Sophomore

“Badman by Vado and Everyday Strug-gle by B.I.G. ,” Jeremy Lennon- Junior

Music is universal. No matter where you are, you can recognize the majes-tic sound of a musical melody. Students at Clayton State listen to many genres of music while they’re studying, exercising, or engaging in extracurricular activities. From rock to rap, the students on campus blast everything on their musical gadgets.Upcoming artist Gotye is one of the most trending artists right now. His famous song, “Somebody That I Used to Know” featuring Kimbra is number one on the Billboard Hot 100. When asked around campus if students listen to Gotye’s song, the responses were incredible. Ebony Miller responded by stating, “I really enjoy this song, I wake up to it almost every morning on the Vh1 Countdown.” Jelani Miller states, “I normally listen to rap but there is something about this song that stands out to me, something that makes me want to keep hitting the repeat button.” Many other students gave similar remarks. Other artists that are trending on campus are Fun, Chris Brown, Adele, Rick Ross, Frank Ocean, The Black Keys, and Rihanna. When I interviewed the girls on campus, I learned that many of them were listen-ing to Rihanna’s song “Birthday Cake”. Student participant Toran-Marie Reese states, “The song is vulgar but good. It makes you want to dance.” Our students love music. For many it is a stress reliever, a way to escape the chaotic world we live in. You know what they say, “Music makes the world go ‘round.”

By Brittney RobinsonStaff Writer

Music Review: Gotye

Opinion

10 May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03


Senior Spotlight: Colby WilsonBy Aaron AdamsStaff Writer

As our Spring semester comes to an end, we have a great class of seniors graduating. The Bent Tree shines its light on one senior, who has inspired so many students during his matriculation at Clayton State Uni-versity. Colby Wilson, is our Senior Spotlight. He started here at Clayton State in January of 2008 as a Freshman. He admitted that Clayton State wasn’t his first choice for a college to attend, but Clayton State grew on him. He ended up loving it and wanting to graduate from here. Over his years at Clayton State, Colby joined many organizations. His campus involvement includes the Clayton State Gospel Choir, Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) as the former President and as a current member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, the University Hearing Pan-el, the New Student Complication Committee, and he is also a Resident Assistant. His involvement on campus has captured so many student’s at-tention to the extent that he has won two Student Choice Awards, one for “Best Dressed” and one for “Mr. Fresh” this past semester. While President of SAAB, the organization won “Program of the Year” for Men Awareness Week and “Best Organization of the Year”. One of Colby’s greatest memories here at Clayton State was the Benefit Concert that the Gospel Choir held in honor of Zac Bradly. He said that it felt great to help and to see the smile on his face and the tears and happiness his family showed. After graduating from Clayton State, he was looking forward small business ownership post-graduation. He said that he is in the process of opening his own talent and event management company. We wish him great success in the future.

Listen LiveAnytime

www.ClaytonStateRadio.comClayton State Television

Watch Them


11May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03

Entertainment

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Sudoku Puzzle #B278KUPresented by Puzzle Baron

Rated: Easy

4 6

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3 2 8 6

5 1 8 2

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Sudoku Puzzle #P424NOPresented by Puzzle Baron

Rated: Medium

Copyright © Puzzle Baron April 27, 2012 - Go to www.Printable-Puzzles.com for Hints and Solutions!

Go to www.Printable-Puzzles.com for hints and solutions! Puzzle ID: #A465EK

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Across

1. Davenport or chesterfield

5. "Taxi" character

10. They're honored in May

14. Sacred bull of ancient Egypt

15. European autos

16. Gain ___ (get ahead in a race)

17. U.S. money market

19. Strip in the Mideast

20. Icy rain

21. Made quieter

23. All ___: listening

26. Capstan drum

27. Like a versatile athlete

32. Exclamations of surprise

33. Filmdom's Lash

34. Prayer wheel priests

38. Tara of "American Pie"

40. Beginning of a long story

42. Completely fill, as a hungry person

43. Early fabulist

45. Calpurnia's wrap

47. One, to Conchita

48. Typical sampling

51. Egg container

54. Georgia and Ukraine, once: Abbr.

55. Supervises

58. Old-time oath

62. Noon, in France

63. Camp David Accords figure

66. Carolina college town

67. Blue opening

68. Knee

69. Wedding invitation encl.

70. Sealed up, as a package

71. Said 'Not guilty,' e.g.

Down

1. Carpenters' dust creators

2. Semi-precious stone

3. Manicurist's tool

4. Dead to the world

5. Land for a house

6. Busy mo. for accountants

7. ____ off (irate)

8. "Fish Magic" artist

9. Glaring

10. Red shades

11. Chan portrayer

12. "___ tov!"

13. Fictional sleuth Sam

18. Slot in a stable

22. Kind of highway or citizenship

24. Gather.

25. Paste jewelry material

27. When said three times, a 1970 war movie

28. Korean leader Syngman ___

29. Goddess with a cow's horns

30. Painful reminders

31. Throw again

35. Island and county of Hawaii

36. ___ cost (free)

37. Connery of the cinema

39. Marxism, for one

41. Aits in Arles

44. Major-leaguers

46. Builders' units

49. Without a break

50. Irving hero

51. Arrives

52. Spanish city

53. Makeovers

56. One-named singer with the hit "Orinoco Flow"

57. Give this for that

59. Georgia city

60. Odense citizen

61. Tuxedo button

64. Get ___ for effort

65. "Spare the ___, spoil..."

SUDOKU

12 May 2012 / VOL. 46 • ISSUE 03


EntertainmentIT’S TIME FOR FINALS!

The internet is ablaze with memes about finals so we thought we’d share a few of

our favorites.

GOOD LUCK ON YOUR EXAMS!

The Bent Tree - May edition

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