Spartan Echo

Car fire heats the Suites

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

News Editor Keona Prude was on the scene.

"Freshman fifteen" can sneak up on new students

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Why attend NSU?

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Dress for Success helps Hampton Roads women

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NSU remained open as Earl passed

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Many along Virginia's coastline anxiously awaited the storm's arrival overnight to see what kind of punch Earl would pack. By early Friday, Sept. 3, hours after Earl was downgraded to a Category 2 storm, strong winds and light rain were the only signs something was swirling out at sea.

McDonnell presses case for private booze sales

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell is still struggling to sell his plan to privatize state-owned liquor stores and other reforms as he hits the midway point of a tour around the state to hold town hall-style forums on the topic.

Supreme Court to review Va. ban on alcohol ads in college newspapers

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - The ACLU of Virginia asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday, Aug. 23, to review a federal appeals court ruling that upholds a ban on alcohol advertising in Virginia's college newspapers.

In a 2-1 ruling in April, a panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals concluded that the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission ban is a minimally restrictive approach to combat problem drinking.

DEA seeks Ebonics experts to help with cases

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

ATLANTA (AP) - Federal agents are seeking to hire Ebonics translators to help interpret wiretapped conversations involving targets of undercover drug investigations.

The Drug Enforcement Administration recently sent memos asking companies that provide translation services to help it find nine translators in the Southeast who are fluent in Ebonics, Special Agent Michael Sanders said Monday, Aug. 23.

Q&A on 'ground zero' mosque

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

An Islamic Center including a mosque is proposed for a site in lower Manhattan that's two blocks from Ground Zero. The project has ignited passions and turned into a major political issue. The Spartan Echo gives you the factual who, what, when, where, why and how regarding this ongoing controversy.

For-profit colleges rein in recruiting tactics

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

DENVER (AP) - Two for-profit colleges whose recruiting tactics were singled out in a scathing undercover government investigation are pledging to stop using enrollment targets as a factor in paying admissions representatives.

MyNSU merges web functions

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

This August, Norfolk State University will begin a new approach to connecting with its campus community. This fall, NSU will launch MyNSU, a ground-breaking web portal that will allow students and faculty to stay organized and informed in their lives on and off campus.

Gov. sees 2010 budget surplus

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Despite months of declining revenues and a small decrease in May tax collections, Gov. Bob McDonnell predicts a year-end state budget surplus.

Attorney: Vick says he wasn't involved

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) - Michael Vick was interviewed by a detective about a shooting that took place outside a nightclub where he had celebrated his birthday, a Virginia Beach Police spokesman said.

The spokesman, Adam Bernstein, said the Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback is not a suspect, and no arrest has been made in Friday's early morning shooting.

Board of Visitors appoints acting president

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Norfolk, Va.-The Norfolk State University Board of Visitors named Dr. Kim Luckes as acting president at NSU, effective July 1. Most recently, Luckes served as the liaison to the Board of Visitors and assistant to the president.

"We are confident that she will provide the university with excellent leadership as the Board conducts the presidential search," said NSU Rector Edward L. Hamm, Jr.

Employers held back hiring in May

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The new employment snapshot indicated that many private employers are still wary of bulking up their work forces. And it suggested the economic recovery may not bring help fast enough for millions of Americans still unemployed.

Many still waiting for recovery

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The federal government says the "Great Recession" is over - has been for months now - and that we're well into the recovery. But, if "recovery" means getting back to where you were, many aren't even close.

Va. gets stimulus, skips other funding

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

(AP) - Virginia is getting another $324.6 million in stimulus funds for public education, but skips vying for a portion of $3.4 billion in additional federal funds.

Duncan: Schools should disclose more

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan urged schools across the country on Wednesday, Aug. 25, to disclose more data on student achievement and teacher effectiveness, saying too much information that would help teachers and parents is being kept out of public view.

Colleges see prospective donors among new students

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) - The drill for new college students remains pretty consistent: grab a campus map, buy some overpriced textbooks, save those quarters for laundry and don't forget to call home.

On a growing number of campuses, first-year students are hearing another message. Please give. Not for tuition, but instead as a young donor.

10 named 'Race to the Top' grant winners

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

ATLANTA (AP) - The U.S. Education Department said Tuesday, Aug. 24, that nine states and the District of Columbia will get money to reform schools in the second round of the $4.35 billion "Race to the Top" grant competition.

Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island and Washington, D.C., will receive grants, department spokesman Justin Hamilton said.

Lesbian cadet quits West Point, cites 'don't ask' policy

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

WEST POINT, N.Y. (AP) - A lesbian cadet asked to resign from the U.S. Military Academy because she said she can no longer lie about her sexuality and was troubled by the anti-gay attitudes of some around her.

Katherine Miller of Findlay, Ohio, also said she wants to fight for repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" law, a subject she was studying and writing about as a sociology major at West Point.

"I intend for my resignation to offer a concrete example of the consequences of a failed law and social policy," she wrote in her resignation letter on Monday, Aug. 16, referring to the law against gays serving openly in the military.

Student lender settles lawsuit for $55M

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - Student lender Nelnet said Friday, Aug. 13, it agreed to pay $55 million to settle a whistle-blower lawsuit that accused the company and nine other lenders of defrauding the U.S. government out of $1 billion.

Muslim student group faces suspension

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (AP) - A University of California, Irvine, disciplinary committee ruled that a Muslim student group should be suspended for at least a year because of a protest that disrupted a talk by Israel's ambassador and led to the arrest of 11 students, according to documents released June 14.

First lady recalls family's influence

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON (AP) - Her voice cracking and eyes filled with tears, first lady Michelle Obama remembered her parents' sacrifices for their two children and how they pushed for success as she urged high school graduates to claim their destiny.

Mrs. Obama addressed students, parents and faculty of The Academies at Anacostia at the school's graduation ceremony June 11 at the Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall, not far from the White House. She said she would not have been standing at the podium if her parents had not encouraged her and her brother, Craig Robinson, to dream big.

Job outlook brightens for grads--barely

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

This year's slightly better performance is one of many signs around the country that 2010 is a better year than 2009 for landing that first job out of college - but not by much.

Even graduates with sought-after degrees had less than sizzling prospects. Fewer than half of U.S. accounting majors could boast job offers this spring.

In 2007, about two-thirds of soon-to-be graduates reported having job offers in hand that spring. Just three years later, about 40 percent could say that.

Resume adviser helps would-be federal workers

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

With the economy inching out of the worst downturn in a generation, working for the feds has gained cachet as a source of stable employment in uncertain times. The government needs to fill 270,000 "mission-critical" - non-clerical, nonsupport - positions by 2012, an increase of 40 percent over the previous three years. And Kathryn Troutman of Crystal City, Va. is happy to guide them through Uncle Sam's bewildering application thicket.

Students stand in class ...for their health

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Researchers for years have studied the so-called "stand-up" desks with adults, who in some cases work at stations fitted over standard treadmills, but the data being collected from Idaho students could provide crucial information on how this works in the classroom.

Hispanic college success: It's all in the family

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Studies show that more Hispanic students are enrolling in college, but a disproportionate number drop out with debt instead of degrees. At the average college or university, 51 percent of Hispanic students earn a bachelor's degree in six years, compared to 59 percent of white students.

But researchers point out that institutions that serve similar students show wide disparities in graduation rates. Their argument: What colleges do matters.

Spartans shut-out by Rutgers, 31-0

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - The Spartans started their season just like they did three years ago, with a loss to Rutgers. Even though the final score was 31-0, the game was much closer.

Spartans ready the troops for Rutgers

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Spartan football heads to the gridiron of Rutgers University for the first match-up of the season. NSU is ranked No. 25 in the preseason Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) poll in the Lindy's Sports College Football 2010 Preview magazine. This is the first time the Spartans have been ranked in a preseason poll.

According to MEACsports.com, NSU was number three in the conference for total offense and defense last season. But the Spartans have a big job of replacing many key starters from last season. Head Coach Pete Adrian has confirmed that Christopher Walley will lead the team as the starting quarterback in New Jersey against Rutgers.

2010 Virginia Division I and FCS football schedule

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Redskins' Armstrong had 'very scenic' route to NFL

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Armstrong is the leading receiver in the preseason for the Redskins, a long-shot speedster making a surprisingly strong bid for a roster spot at the age of 27. Donovan McNabb's first touchdown pass in the first game didn't go to Santana Moss, Joey Galloway, Devin Thomas, Roydell Williams or Malcolm Kelly. It went to Armstrong.

Defense shines in first scrimmage

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NORFOLK, Va. - The Norfolk State football team conducted its first scrimmage in full pads on Saturday afternoon, Aug. 14, at Dick Price Stadium. The 80-play controlled scrimmage saw some highlights on both sides of the ball, but in the end, the Spartan defense stood tall and kept the offense out of the end zone.

"You normally see that early in preseason camp," NSU head coach Pete Adrian said. "We're still getting used to each other out there. But for us to be able to go 80 plays in our second day in full pads, we're ahead of where we normally are."

Hall of Fame to correct "Pete" Hill's information

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Culpeper, Va. can now officially lay claim to its second hall of famer: John Preston "Pete" Hill, born circa 1884, the son of former slaves, in the rural community of Buena, near Rapidan in the county's southeastern corner.

Hill was inducted posthumously into the Hall of Fame in 2006, more than five decades after his death in 1951. He went by the nickname Pete and was considered one of the greatest outfielders and hitters in Negro League history.

Culver breaks into ITA Regional rankings

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NORFOLK, Va. - Norfolk State's Arsenio Culver (Philadelphia, Pa.) made his debut in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association's regional rankings, which were released for the final time of the 2010 season.

Culver breaks into the men's Atlantic Region at No. 20 in singles. The first-team All-MEAC selection tallied a 13-4 singles record as a sophomore this past season. He defeated opponents from East Carolina, Liberty, Delaware, James Madison and MEAC champion South Carolina State in singles action.

Spartans rank #25 in FCS preseason poll

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Spartans are ranked No. 25 in the preseason Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) poll in the Lindy's Sports College Football 2010 Preview magazine, which is available now on newsstands.

This marks the first time the Spartans have achieved any preseason national FCS ranking. The Spartans are picked to finish second in the MEAC behind two-time defending champion South Carolina State, which checks in at No. 7 in the magazine's preseason FCS poll.

Spartan men win 6th MEAC all-sports trophy

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NORFOLK, Va. - Norfolk State University has won its sixth straight Talmadge Layman Hill Award, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference men's all-sports trophy, the league announced.

This marks the first time a MEAC men's program has won six straight all-sports awards since South Carolina State won 11 in a row from 1974-84.

Dennis Brown signs with CFL's Calgary Stampeders

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NORFOLK, Va. - Former Norfolk State University quarterback Dennis Brown (Miami, Fla.) has signed a contract with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League.

Brown started all 23 games under center for the Spartans the last two seasons. The University of Connecticut transfer finished his NSU career second in school history in total offense (4,617 yards) and fourth in passing yards (3,771).

Whitehead, Bell sign free agent NFL contracts

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NORFOLK, Va. - Norfolk State All-American free safety Terrell Whitehead (Virginia Beach, Va.) and All-MEAC receiver Chris Bell (Norfolk, Va.) have signed free-agent NFL contracts.

Whitehead, NSU's first-ever three-time Division I FCS All-American, signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bell inked a deal with the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints.

Rapper T.I. comeback could be derailed with arrest

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

After finishing a sentence for weapons charges earlier this year, T.I. was poised to have the comeback of the fall.

The multiplatinum rapper starred in the nation's No. 1 movie, recently married his longtime girlfriend, taped a music special for VH1 and was wrapping up a new album. But after an arrest Wednesday, Sept. 1, in California, there are questions about whether he's returning to the music charts - or prison.

While charges have yet to be filed, the case has the potential to put one of music's top names behind bars yet again.

'Bed Intruder' songster turning fame into a future

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (AP) - Antoine Dodson's angry, head-shaking TV interview about an attempted rape against his younger sister in her bed has turned into a chart-topping iTunes song and YouTube hit and made the 24-year-old Alabama college student an Internet sensation.

Dodson plans to use the money from the "Bed Intruder Song" selling for $1.29 a download and T-shirt sales to move his family out of the Lincoln Park housing project where they say the attack happened. But in an era when a viral video clip can rocket anyone to stardom, some suggest that Dodson and his family are being used and that his online rant plays to racial stereotypes.

NASCAR on BET? Drive for Diversity goes reality TV

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (AP) - Jessica Brunelli is a fan of "Jersey Shore" and "The Real World," so the 17-year-old race car driver knows just how addictive reality TV can be.

Addictive enough to draw in viewers who don't know Jeff Gordon from Jeff Burton? That's the gamble behind "Changing Lanes," a new show that airs not on a sports network but BET.

Nigeria tailor-makes a yam-packed 'Sesame Street'

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

"Sesame Street," once a mainstay for a generation of Nigerian children who grew up with the U.S. show on the state-run TV network, will return to screens in Africa's most populous nation this fall, funded by American taxpayers but distinctively Nigerian.

Algebra with a hip-hop beat

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The class of eighth graders at a Los Angeles middle school tap their rulers and nod their heads to the rhythm of the rap video projected on a screen. It's not Snoop Dogg or Jay-Z.

Uncanny timing brings "Thurgood" to DC stage

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON (AP) - He called her Shorty. She called him the most important lawyer of the 20th century.

Now, in a case of uncanny timing, the story of former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall is taking center stage at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts just as the Senate prepares to take up the nomination of his onetime clerk, Elena Kagan, to join the high court.

Marshall, the first black justice on the court, is brought to life by actor Laurence Fishburne in the one-man play "Thurgood." The production opened on Broadway in 2008 and earned Fishburne a Tony Award nomination.

Obama: clean energy manufacturing points toward bright economic future

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

We expect our commitment to clean energy to lead to more than 800,000 jobs by 2012. And that's not just creating work in the short term, that's going to help lay the foundation for lasting economic growth. I just want everybody to understand --just a few years ago, American businesses could only make 2 percent of the world's advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles -- 2 percent. In just a few years, we'll have up to 40 percent of the world's capacity.

See, when folks lift up the hoods on the cars of the future, I want them to see engines stamped "Made in America." When new batteries to store solar power come off the line, I want to see printed on the side, "Made in America." When new technologies are developed and new industries are formed, I want them made right here in America. That's what we're fighting for.

Education, not criminal records for sexting youth

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

How can an innocent gesture of visual gratification turn into such an ugly crime such as child pornography? Sexters beware.

Having a nude picture of your boyfriend/girlfriend in your cell phone could very well land you in a world of trouble.

Acting 'ghetto' in college

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

While in college, you are bound to meet people from different backgrounds and cultural settings. One image becoming more apparent to me is the "hood" or "ghetto" representation.

On a daily basis, I hear someone saying "I'm from the streets," or "I'm from the hood." Being from the hood is not a problem. However, when you cannot differentiate between what's appropriate behavior in a college setting because you are stuck in your hood mentality, that's when it becomes an issue.