Thursday, February 13, 2014

Weather postpones Day 1 of MEAC Indoor Track and Field Championships

LANDOVER, Maryland  -- Inclement weather postponed the opening day of the 2014 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Indoor Track and Field Championships at the Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex.

Competition will now begin on Friday at 9 a.m. with a slew of events, beginning with the men's heptathlon, Other field events on Friday's slate include the women's high jump, men's and women's weight throw, men's and women's long jump and men's pole vault. The student-athletes take to the track with the men's and women's 5,000, 800m, 60m dash, 200m and 400m. The closes out with the men's and women's distance medleys.
 
The competition concludes on Saturday, beginning at 9 a.m. with the women's pentathlon, the final events of the men's heptathlon, women's pole vault, men's and women's triple jump and men's shot put. Running events begin at 1 p.m. with the women's mile. Rounding out the afternoon's events will be the men's and women's 4x400 relay race at 3:25 p.m.
 
A complete schedule of events and live statistics for the 2014 MEAC Men's and Women's Indoor Track and Field Championships can be found at www.MEACsports.com.
 
Admission for the Indoor Track and Field Championships is $5 daily on Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15. Tickets are available at the Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex on the event dates.
 
For the latest on the 2014 MEAC Men's and Women's Indoor Track and Field Championships, log on to www.MEACsports.com.
 
COURTESY MEACSPORTS.COM

FAMU senior music industry major and saxophone prodigy Bernard Jackson is a busy member of Prince's band

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  -- Bernard Jackson was hardly the only student at Florida A&M who had to miss his school’s football season opener last fall — and the celebrated return of the Marching 100 — because of work.

What separates Jackson from his classmates is his job. He couldn’t be at Bragg Stadium last September because he was in Minneapolis with his boss, the acclaimed musician Prince, helping him prepare for an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night TV show.

“I think it was Minneapolis,” Jackson, a 22-year-old senior at FAMU, said. “We might have been in L.A.”

Welcome to life in the fast lane for a saxophone prodigy.


Sax phenom Bernard Jackson: FAMU senior and saxophonist Bernard Jackson was given a full college scholarship after President James Ammons heard him play. Since that invite years ago, Jackson has perfected his craft and his most recent gig was with musical giant Prince.

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FAMU finally comes to terms with Mangum

TALLAHASSEE, Florida  -- The protracted negotiations between Florida A&M’s trustees and the university’s new president appear to be at an end, and Elmira Mangum should be on campus April 1 as FAMU’s new CEO.

The sharply divided board voted 8-4 on Thursday to accept the revisions Mangum made to a contract she originally agreed to in late January with Solomon Badger, chair of FAMU’s board.

Thursday’s 150-minute meeting was the third by FAMU’s board in less than two weeks. Trustee Rufus Montgomery made more than five motions to amend the contract, and Trustee Kelvin Lawson also attempted to have a provision for a car stripped from Mangum’s contract, but all failed by 8-5 or 7-6 votes.

Mangum, a vice president for planning and budget at Cornell University, still must sign ...

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JSU dome still on the table

JACKSON, Mississippi  --  Plans for Jackson State’s 50,000-seated stadium are still alive.

Earlier this week, state Sen. Kenneth Jones (D-Canton) filed a bill in the Legislature to establish a special fund for the stadium to be used for the facility’s establishment, maintenance and operation.

In the Senate Bill No. 2920, money in the fund would come from a 7 percent tax levied on revenues from stadium activities and placed in the special tax fund. Legislators would have to appropriate revenues from the special fund to the dome on an annual basis.

The bill is currently in ...

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White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities Presents 2014 HBCU All-Stars

WASHINGTON, D.C.  --  The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (WHIHBCU) announced on February 10, 2014, its first class of HBCU All-Stars, recognizing 75 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, and civic engagement.   Currently enrolled at 62 HBCUs, the All-Stars were selected from 445 students who submitted completed applications that included a transcript, resume, essay, and recommendation.

“Engaging with the next generation of leaders who will graduate from HBCUs and go on to make meaningful contributions to society is crucial to the success of our community, our country and our global competitiveness,” said George Cooper, executive director of the WHIHBCUs.  “It is a privilege to announce these 75 students who have demonstrated a commitment to both their own academic achievement and making a difference in their communities, and we look forward to working with them as partners in advancing President Obama’s college completion goal.”

Over the course of the next year, the HBCU All-Stars will serve as ambassadors of the White House Initiative by provide outreach and communication with their fellow students about the value of education and the Initiative as a networking resource.   Through social media and their relationships with community-based organizations, the All-Stars will share promising and proven practices that support opportunities for all young people to achieve their educational and career potential.   In addition, the 45 female and 30 male All-Stars will participate in regional events and web chats with Ivory Toldson, deputy director of the WHIHBCUs, other Initiative staff and professionals from a wide range of disciplines.  They will also have opportunities to engage with other scholars to showcase individual and collective talent across the HBCU community.

More information about the activities of the 75 HBCU All-Stars will be provided in the coming months as they carry out their role as ambassadors of the White House Initiative on Historically Black colleges and Universities.

Where are the HBCUs?
Complete listing by State
 Accredited HBCU listing


Below is the list of the 2014 HBCU All-Stars, alphabetical by their hometown state, and including the city they are from, the school they attend and the school’s location.

ALABAMA
Huntsville–Sharesse Mason –attends Alabama A&M University, Normal
Mobile–Justin Wells –attends Bishop State Community College, Mobile, AL
Aliceville–Keiwan Harris –attends Concordia College Alabama, Selma, AL
Tuscaloosa–Morgan Curry –attends Shelton State Community College, Tuscaloosa, AL
Tuscaloosa–Jeraun Pouge –attends Stillman College,  Tuscaloosa, AL
Talladega–Chuck Stewart –attends Talladega College, Talladega, AL
Tuskegee—Kalauna Carter –attends Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL

ARKANSAS
Little Rock–Chelsea Fox –attends Philander Smith, Little Rock, AR

CALIFORNIA
Los Angeles–Nicole Tinson –attends Dillard University, New Orleans, LA
Fresno–Arogeanae Brown –attends Virginia State University, Petersburg, Virginia

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Tyrone Hankerson –attends Howard University, District of Columbia
-Jocelyn Cole –attends Howard University, District of Columbia
-LaTrice Clayburn –attends Livingstone College, Salisbury, NC
Abdul Nurriddin –attends University of the District of Columbia Community College, District of Columbia

FLORIDA
Daytona–Shantel Braynen –attends Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, FL
Tallahassee–Jamil McGinnis –attends Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL
Tallahassee–Jazmyne Simmons –attends Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL
Miami–Jonte Myers –attends Florida Memorial University, Miami Gardens, FL
Orlando–Vivian Nweze –attends Howard University, District of Columbia

GEORGIA
Riverdale–Kelcey Wright –attends Albany State University, Albany, GA
Atlanta–Lillian Harris –attends Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA
Rex–Elijah Porter –attends Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA
Atlanta–Cameron Weathers –attends Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Atlanta–David Johnny –attends Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Atlanta–Sarah Dillard –attends Savannah State University, Savannah, GA
Albany–Bria Carrithers –attends Spelman College,  Atlanta, GA

KENTUCKY
Frankfort–Chaundra Bush –attends Kentucky State University, Frankfort, KY

LOUISIANA
Grambling–Breonna Ward –attends Grambling State University, Grambling, LA
Ruston–Brooke Battiste –attends Grambling State University, Grambling, LA
Zachary–Robert Chambers –attends Southern University A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA

MARYLAND
Accokeek–Symone Jordan –attends Bowie State University, Bowie, MD
Fort Washington–Kayla Reynolds –attends Delaware State University, Dover, DE
Baltimore–Triston Bing-Young –attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD
Fort Washington–Trevor McKie –attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD
Silver Spring–Chanel Banks –attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD
Salisbury–So Jin Park –attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD

MISSISSIPPI
Brookhaven–Lawrence Warren –attends Alcorn State University, Alcorn, MS
Jackson–Candace Chambers –attends Jackson State University, Jackson, MS
Itta Bena–Rodney Rice –attends Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena, MS
Holly Springs–Larrance Carter –attends Rust College, Holly Springs, MS
Bolton–Kisa Harris –attends Tougaloo College, Jackson, MS

NORTH CAROLINA
Greensboro–Jasmine Everett –attends Bennett College, Greensboro, NC
Raleigh–Victoria Jones –attends North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC
Whiteville–Valerie Edwards –attends Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC
Gates–Amanda Eure –attends Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, NC
Charlotte–Jheanelle Linton –attends Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, NC
Greensboro–Shakera Fudge –attends North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University, Greensboro
Greensboro–Leon White –attends North Carolina Agricultural &Technical State University, Greensboro
Knightdale–Joseph Wyatt –attends St. Augustine’s University, Raleigh, NC
Winston-Salem–Georges Guillame –attends Winston Salem State University, Winston Salem, NC

NEW JERSEY
Newark–Akirah Crawford –attends Virginia State University, Petersburg, VA

OKLAHOMA
Ardmore–Beautiful- Joy Fields –attends Langston University, Langston, OK

PENNSYLVANIA
Chester–Ahn-yea Graham –attends Cheyney University of PA, Cheyney, PA

SOUTH CAROLINA
Leesville–Rodrea Zeigler –attends Allen University, Columbia, SC
Orangeburg–Jessica Mong –attends Claflin University, Orangeburg, SC
Lynchburg–Refugio Banuelos –attends Morris College, Sumter, SC
Orangeburg–Harold Rickenbacker –attends South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC
Orangeburg–Jasmine Harris –attends South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC

TENNESSEE
Nashville–Ciera Carter –attends Fisk University, Nashville, TN
Jackson–Stephanie Phillips –attends Lane College, Jackson, TN
Memphis–Gilbert Carter –attends LeMoyne- Owen College, Memphis, TN
Nashville–Ciera Scales –attends Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN
Nashville–Jeremiah Cooper –attends Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN
Jackson–Aneesa Sood –attends Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL

TEXAS
Houston–Antoine Southern –attends Oakwood University, Huntsville, AL
Dallas–Priscilla Barbour –attends Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX
Cedar Hill–Glenn Johnson –attends Texas College, Tyler, TX
Houston–Jarrauri Curry –attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX
Houston–Candace Jones –attends Texas Southern University, Houston, TX
Garland–Jade Crutch –attends Xavier University, New Orleans,  LA

VIRGINIA
Suffolk–Chanae LeGrier –attends Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC
Dendron–Whitney Johnson –attends Hampton University, Hampton, VA
Richmond–Caprichia Moses –attends Virginia Union University, Richmond, VA

VIRGIN ISLANDS
Christiansted–Shereena Cannonier –attends Lincoln University PA, Lincoln, PA
Christiansted–Kevin Dixon –attends University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, USVI    

 

Former Southern defensive coordinator Terrence Graves to coach at Grambling

GRAMBLING, Louisiana  -- Terrence Graves, a longtime assistant coach at Southern University under Pete Richardson, will be the linebackers coach and special teams coordinator at Grambling, Graves announced Monday on Facebook.

“After much Prayer and discussion I have began next phase of My Coaching Career..... I am Officially the Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Grambling State University. I look forward to opportunity God has placed me to Mentor Young Men and Build Lives. Another HBCU. Another Blessing,” Graves posted.

Grambling did not send out a release confirming Graves’ hiring.

Graves had been the assistant head coach and linebackers coach at Mississippi Valley State since the 2010 season. He was also the interim head coach at Valley after the school did not renew the contract of Karl Morgan and until former Jackson State head coach Rick Comegy was hired last month.

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Podcast: Southern baseball preview with coach Roger Cador; Baseball set to host MLB Urban Invitational Friday

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana  -- Southern baseball coach Roger Cador previews the upcoming season with Advocate sportswriter Les East. Click here to listen to the podcast.



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Baseball set to host MLB Urban Invitational Friday

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana --  The seventh edition of the Major League Baseball Urban Invitational will shift from Houston to southern Louisiana.

This year's Invitational will feature four teams from the state of Louisiana to include Southwestern Athletic Conference and rivals Southern and Grambling State.

The Urban Invitational, played in Houston the past two years, will be held Feb. 14-16 and will be played in the cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Four venues -- Southern University, Louisiana State University, Zephyr Field and the New Orleans UYA -- will host games.

In 2013, the Urban Invitational exclusively featured HBCUs with all four teams coming out of the SWAC. Alabama State, Southern, Texas Southern and Prairie View A&M played in the round-robin at Minute Maid Park.

Southern will become the only school to have played in all seven editions of the Urban Invitational. Grambling State makes its third appearance with LSU and UNO participating for the first time.

The Urban Invitational has been held since 2008 in which 16 players among HBCU ranks that have played in the tourney were selected in the First-Year Player Draft.

The tournament will begin with games at two venues in Baton Rouge. GSU and SU will play at Lee Hines Field on the campus of Southern University on Feb. 14, and UNO and LSU will face off at Alex Box Stadium.

First pitch for Friday's season opener at Lee-Hines Field is set for 6 p.m. Live stats and live video will be available on GoJagSports.com.

Saturday's game will take place at the New Orleans UYA (UNO vs. LSU) and another at Zephyr Field (GSU vs. SU). LSU will host the final two games on Sunday. The final two tourney games on Sunday, Feb. 16, will be broadcast live on MLB Network and simulcast live on MLB.com.

The Urban Invitational not only promotes baseball, it helps Major League Baseball showcase Historically Black Colleges and Universities and unveils one of the newest Urban Youth Academies. It also seeks to underline the value of education. The New Orleans Urban Youth Academy, which opened in November 2012, will host a baseball clinic for kids and a college and career fair on Saturday, Feb. 15, as part of the Urban Invitational.

"Collegiate baseball represents a significant element of the game's future, so it is important to give these programs the opportunity for exposure to a larger audience," MLB executive vice president of baseball development Frank Robinson said in a news release. "We are thrilled to host this year's Urban Invitational in Southern Louisiana, and thank all of our participating schools."

The New Orleans Urban Youth Academy will get a chance to take center stage and to highlight the growth of the league's initiative around the country. There are already Urban Youth Academies up and running in Compton, Calif., Houston and New Orleans. New facilities are currently under construction in Cincinnati and Philadelphia, with another planned for South Florida.

Information for the Urban Invitational can be found at MLB.com/community/uya.jsp, and parking at the New Orleans UYA will be free for all events throughout the weekend. High school students from New Orleans, Mississippi and Alabama are all invited to attend the college fair free of charge.

COURTESY SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

 

SI: 6 underrated players in college hoops

HOUSTON, Texas  -- Aaric Murray, Texas Southern.

Murray looked like one of the nation's best big men when he played at La Salle, but ended up at Texas Southern trying to repair his image after being dismissed from the team at West Virginia. After a visit to John Lucas' rehabilitation center and earning his degree, Murray has resurrected his image, his game and his NBA chances with his third college team. A powerful 6-10, 245 pounds, he's been an unstoppable force in the SWAC, scoring 23.8 points per game - fourth nationally - while shooting 48 percent from the floor, grabbing 8.2 rebounds and blocking 2.3 shots per game. Murray had 48 points against Temple, the most ever scored against the Owls, and has shown that he now has the maturity to go with that NBA-ready body.

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Alabama State's Riley Continues NFL Pursuit

MONTGOMERY, Alabama  -- Kejuan Riley is still looking to make plays, and is willing to take the road less traveled to do it.

The former Alabama State football free safety signed a professional football contract to play for the Indoor Football League's Texas Revolution, the Plano, Texas-based team which begins its season this Saturday.



Alabama State's career leader in both interceptions (21) and interception return yards (348), Riley, who led or tied for the Southwestern Athletic Conference lead in interceptions each of his final three seasons, finished his career with 231 tackles (145 solo) with four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. He also averaged 22.3 yards on 15 kick returns and 7.5 yards on 28 punt returns during his career.

The three-time All-SWAC and two-time All-America performer was invited to the Atlanta Falcons rookie camp in May, but was not signed by the team.

While continuing to work towards his NFL dream, Riley continued his education at Alabama State, finishing hours toward his physical education degree while coaching defensive backs at Jefferson Davis High School.

Riley, who will play defensive back, wide receiver and return kicks for the Revolution, said his current Texas experience has humbled him.

"It's coming from a top notch HBCU where things were very organized and you knew what you were going to get out of the program to coming here where you go with the flow, finding a place to practice, and having no locker room," Riley said. "This has opened my eyes to go hard each and every day with no regrets and put God first.

And while the 15-game schedule ends in June, Riley hopes the IFL season ends with an NFL invitation for the fall.

"I've been playing football all my life and I know God has my back," Riley said. "I know I have to just wait for my time and trust in him. I'm going to pursue my dream as long as he shows me the way. I just thank God for letting me get back on a football field to play the sport I love. This is a great chance for me to get more film and prove myself. I am taking things one step at a time."

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

FAMU Rattler Weekend Series Changed Due To Weather


TALLAHASSEE, Florida  -- The FAMU game baseball against the Naval Academy scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed.  The teams will play at 1 p.m. on Saturday and a doubleheader on Sunday starting at 1 p.m. at Moore-Kittles Field.  Inclement weather has caused travel complications as the country has been crippled by the closing of Atlanta and Charlotte airports.

FLORIDA A&M RATTLERS 2014 BASEBALL SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Location Time (ET)  
Sat, Feb 15   Naval Academy Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m.
Sun, Feb 16  Naval Academy Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m.
Sun, Feb 16 Naval Academy Tallahassee, Fla.   3 p.m. 
Tue, Feb 18 Mercer at Macon, Ga. 4 p.m. 
Wed, Feb 19 Mercer at Macon, Ga. 4 p.m. 
Sat, Feb 22 Jackson State Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Feb 22 Jackson State Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Feb 23 Jackson State Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Tue, Feb 25 Troy University Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Wed, Feb 26 Jacksonville at Jacksonville, Fla. 6 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 01 Bethune-Cookman * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 01 Bethune-Cookman * Tallahassee, Fla. 3:30 p.m. 
Sun, Mar 02 Bethune-Cookman * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Tue, Mar 04 Mercer Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m.
Wed, Mar 05 Mercer Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 08 Savannah State at Savannah, Ga. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 08 Savannah State * at Savannah, Ga. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Mar 09 Savannah State * at Savannah, Ga. 1 p.m. 
Thu, Mar 13 Florida Gulf Coast at Fort Meyers, Fla. 6:30 p.m. 
Fri, Mar 14 Florida Gulf Coast at Fort Meyers, Fla. 6:30 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 15 Florida Gulf Coast at Fort Meyers, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 22 North Carolina Central * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 22 North Carolina Central Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Mar 23 North Carolina Central * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Wed, Mar 26 Stetson at DeLand, Fla. 5 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 29 North Carolina A&T * at Greensboro, N.C. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Mar 29 North Carolina A&T * at Greensboro, N.C. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Mar 30 North Carolina A&T * at Greensboro, N.C. 1 p.m. 
Wed, Apr 02 Florida Gulf Coast Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 05 Bethune-Cookman * at Daytona Beach, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 05 Bethune-Cookman * at Daytona Beach, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Apr 06 Bethune-Cookman * at Daytona Beach, Fla. 1 p.m.
Tue, Apr 08 Jacksonville Tallahassee, Fla. 5 p.m. 
Wed, Apr 09 North Florida Tallahassee, Fla. 5 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 12 Savannah State * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 12 Savannah State * Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Apr 13 Savannah State * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Tue, Apr 15 Central Florida at Orlando, Fla. 5 p.m. 
Wed, Apr 16 Alabama State Tallahassee, Fla. 6 p.m. 
Thu, Apr 17 Alabama State Tallahassee, Fla. 2 p.m. 
Wed, Apr 23 Florida at Gainesville, Fla. 7 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 26 North Carolina Central * at Durham, N.C. 1 p.m. 
Sat, Apr 26 North Carolina Central * at Durham, N.C. 4 p.m. 
Sun, Apr 27 North Carolina Central * at Durham, N.C. 1 p.m. 
Sat, May 03 North Carolina A&T * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Sat, May 03 North Carolina A&T * Tallahassee, Fla. 4 p.m. 
Sun, May 04 North Carolina A&T * Tallahassee, Fla. 1 p.m. 
Tue, May 06 Jacksonville Tallahassee, Fla. 5 p.m. 
Wed, May 07 Jacksonville at Jacksonville, Fla. 6 p.m. 
Thu, May 15 - Sun, May 18 2014 MEAC Baseball Championships at Norfolk, Va. TBA 

* Conference Games 

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Delaware State Hornets Announce 2014 Football Schedule

DOVER, Delaware  --  First-time contests against Temple and Monmouth, along with a visit to Alumni Stadium by FCS national runner-up Towson, highlight the 2014 Delaware State University football schedule released today. Also this year, the Hornets will visit First State rival Delaware for the fourth straight season.

The 12-game slate features eight Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference contests, beginning with Savannah State’s first visit to Alumni Stadium since it joined the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference in 2011.

The last time Delaware State played a 12-game regular season schedule was in 2002.

The Hornets will kick off the 2014 season on the road at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J., for the first meeting between the teams on Aug. 30. The Hawks, 6-6 as an independent in 2013, will play its first season as a member of the Big South Conference this year.

The following Saturday (Sep. 6), DSU will visit the University of Delaware Fightin Blue Hens for the fourth straight year, and sixth time overall. The previous five meetings were also played at Delaware Stadium. The Hornets have yet to win in the series, which includes a 42-21 Delaware victory last season. The Hens dropped their last three games to finish with a 7-5 overall record in 2013.

Delaware State will play its 2014 home opener on Sep. 13 against Towson University, which fell to No. 1 North Dakota State in the FCS National Championship Game last season. The Tigers were 13-3 overall in 2013, including a 49-7 victory over the Hornets in Towson, Md. This will be the 17th meeting between the teams.  Towson holds a 10-6 in the series.

The next week (Sep, 20), the Hornets will take on Football Bowl Subdivision Temple University for the first time at Lincoln Financial Field, home of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. Temple, a member of the American Athletic Conference, was 2-10 overall in 2013. This will be Delaware State’s first game against a FBS opponent since visiting Michigan in 2009.

Delaware State will begin MEAC play at home against Savannah State on Sep. 27. It’s the only Alumni Stadium night game on the Hornets’ 2014 schedule (6:00 p.m.). The Tigers were 1-11 overall and 0-8 in the MEAC last season, including a 24-22 loss to the Hornets in Savannah, Ga. Delaware State is 3-0 all-time against Savannah State.

The Hornets will begin a two-game road swing on Oct. 4 at defending MEAC co-champ Bethune-Cookman in Daytona Beach, Fla. The Wildcats have won the last three meetings between the teams, including a 21-7 victory in Dover, Del., in 2013. Delaware State, however, leads the all-time series 19-17.  Bethune-Cookman was 10-3 overall and 7-1 in the MEAC last season, which ended with a loss to Coastal Carolina in the FCS playoffs.

The following weekend (Oct. 11), the Hornets will visit MEAC rival Norfolk State at Dick Price Stadium in Norfolk, Va. The Spartans were 3-9 overall and 3-5 in the MEAC last season, including a 14-7 loss to the Hornets in Dover, Del. Delaware State has won the last two meetings between the teams to open up a 15-6 lead in the series.

The Hornets return home Oct. 18 to face North Carolina A&T in the annual homecoming contest. Delaware State holds a 22-20-1 lead in the all-time series against the Aggies, including a 12-7 victory in Greensboro, N.C., last season. NCA&T was 4-4 in the MEAC and 7-4 overall in 2013. Since 1969, the Hornets are 33-12 on homecoming Saturday, including victories in the last two years.

Delaware State is also home for its next game on Oct. 25 for a Parents’ Day contest against Hampton. Connell Maynor was hired as the new head coach of the Pirates after the team posted a 4-8 overall record and 4-4 mark in the MEAC last season. One of the Hampton’s 2013 wins was a 30-7 victory over the Hornets in Hampton, Va. The Pirates hold a 25-14 lead in the series.

DSU will hit the road the following week with a visit to the Nation’s Capital to face Howard on Nov. 1. The teams will be meeting for the 57th straight year and 71st time overall, making it the Hornets’ oldest rivalry. DSU leads the all-time series 36-33-1. The Hornets won last year’s meeting 22-20 on a field goal by Mitchell Ward on the last play of the game. Howard was 6-6 overall and 4-4 in the MEAC in 2013.

After a week off, Delaware State will play its 2014 home finale against Florida A&M in a MEAC contest on Nov. 15. The Rattlers were 3-9 overall and 2-6 in the MEAC last season, including a 29-21 loss to the Hornets in Tallahassee, Fla. Florida A&M holds a 22-9 lead in the series.

DSU will wrap up the 2014 regular season at Morgan State and new head coach Lee Hull in Baltimore, Md., on Nov. 22. The Hornets will be seeking revenge against the Bears, who won last year’s meeting 31-26 in Dover, Del. Morgan State was 5-7 overall and tied with the Hornets for third place in the MEAC with a 5-3 league record in 2013. The Bears hold a 33-24 lead in the series.

Kermit Blount will be in his fourth year as head coach of the Hornets in 2014. He led to DSU to a 5-6 overall record and a third place tie in the MEAC with a 5-3 conference mark last season. In addition to national runner-up Towson, the Hornets’ 2013 schedule included a loss to FCS National Champ North Dakota State.

Delaware State graduated seven seniors from last year’s squad. Among the returning players are 2013 All-MEAC First Team receiver Milton Williams III (sr.) and all-conference defensive end Rodney Gunter (sr.).


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 2014 DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Date Opponent Site Time

Sat., Aug. 30 at Monmouth U., West Long Branch, N.J. TBA
Sat., Sept. 6 at U. of Delaware,  Newark, Delaware  6:00 p.m.
Sat., Sept. 13 TOWSON 2:00 p.m. (Hall of Fame Day)
Sat., Sept. 20 at Temple (Lincoln Financial Field) Philadelphia, Pa. TBA
Sat., Sept. 27 SAVANNAH STATE*  6:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 4 at Bethune-Cookman* Daytona Beach, Fla. TBA
Sat., Oct. 11 at Norfolk State* Norfolk, Va. 2:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 18 NORTH CAROLINA A&T*  2:00 p.m. (Homecoming)
Sat., Oct. 25 HAMPTON*  2:00 p.m. (Open House)
Sat., Nov. 1 at Howard* Washington, D.C. TBA
Sat., Nov. 15 FLORIDA A&M* 2:00 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 22 at Morgan State* Baltimore, Md. TBA

Dates and Times subject to change.
Home games at Alumni Stadium in bold
*-MEAC games

DSU Ticket Office: 302-857-7497/1-866-378-TIXX

WSSU Rams Sign Five Additional Football Student-Athletes

WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina  – The Winston-Salem State University football coaching staff has announced the signing of five additional football student-athletes to Head Coach Kienus Boulware's initial class of signees.
 
The Rams released 15 signees last week on National Signing Day, and have now added the following five student-athletes, to bring the total to 20 thus far. The additional signees are:
 
1. Daiquan Faulks – (LB, 6-3, 225, Glenn HS/Kernersville, NC)
 
2. Nathan Moore – (OL, 6-3, 340, Morganton Freedom HS/Morganton, NC)
 
3. Devin Jones – (DB, 6-0, 180, Eastern Guilford HS/Greensboro, NC)
 
4. Demetrius Lewis – (QB, 6-3, 185, Irmo HS/Irmo, SC)
 
5. Davonte Williams – (Ath, 5-8, 175, Eastern Guilford HS/Greensboro, NC)


WATCH IN 1080p HD, WIDE SCREEN

COURTESY WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

2014 CIAA® Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina  -- Beginning February 25 through March 1, CIAA men and women student-athletes from each of our 12-member institutions will be competing for the title of basketball champion and a chance to move up to the NCAA Division II tournament.

Charlotte, for the ninth year, will serve as the backdrop to one of the most popular basketball tournaments in the country drawing more than 150,000 residents and visitors to the tournament and events surrounding the week. 

Want game tickets?  Click here!

Don’t miss a single minute of the action, which not only includes 22 great basketball games, but also the CIAA Fan Experience, a three-day FREE fan festival event that takes up 200,000 square feet in the Charlotte Convention Center and is hosted by the CIAA’s generous sponsors including Food Lion, Lowe's, Nationwide Insurance and Toyota.

Official Schedule of Events

CONTINUE READING

Basketball Time: CIAA Style



TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- INSiiGHTS, the brainchild of the visionary championship winning coach, Mickey Clayton, premiere their latest show: Basketball Time: CIAA Style on www.INSiiGHTS.com and iHeart Radio.

Coach Mickey Clayton, interviews Winston-Salem's Bobby Collins and Johnson C. Smith's Steve Joyner Jr. from the popular CIAA. Bobby Collins has been very successful at WSSU and also won the MEAC Tournament while the head coach at Hampton University.

Steve Joyner, Jr. comes from a basketball family tree that has many Head Basketball Coach that blossomed from the branches of that tree. Coach Steve Joyner, Jr. grew and blossomed under the branches of that family tree provided by his father, the Hall of Fame Coach Steve Joyner, Sr.

INSiiGHTS explores the highly successful background of CIAA basketball and two of its long established programs, their respective institutions and the CIAA......

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Ragin' Cajuns defeat Gold Rush 6-1, Nuggets 4-0

LAFAYETTE, La. -- Xavier University of Louisiana lost to Louisiana-Lafayette in men's and women's tennis Wednesday. The Gold Rush lost 6-0, and the Gold Nuggets lost 4-1.

Nour Abbes scored the lone victory for Xavier when her opponent at No. 1 singles, Nelo Phiri, retired because of illness after one game, which Abbes won.

Brandi Nelson split sets with Eleanor Bradshaw at No. 6 singles -- Nelson won the second set 6-3 -- but the match was not completed after the Ragin' Cajuns clinched the dual.

Kyle Montrel was the lone Gold Rush player to win a set. Montrel lost 3-6, 6-2, 1-0 (10-6) to Rick de Groot at No. 1 singles.

No doubles matches were played. The dual was scheduled for 6 p.m. but pushed up two hours because of unseasonably cold weather. Temperatures were in the upper 30s at the start of competition.

UL Lafayette's women are 3-2, and the men are 6-1.

Both XU teams will travel to Hattiesburg, Miss., to play William Carey at 3 p.m. Friday. Both XU teams and both William Carey teams are ranked in the NAIA's top 15. It will be the first of three Mississippi matches in as many days for the Rush and Nuggets.


By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
https://twitter.com/xulagold
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12th-ranked Gold Rush lose to 4th-ranked Crusaders

HATTIESBURG, Mississippi -- Xavier University of Louisiana lost 81-58 to William Carey in a matchup of ranked NAIA Division I men's basketball teams Tuesday.

Daron Bell scored 26 points for the fourth-ranked Crusaders (18-2), who have a 12-game win streak. Sydney Coleman produced his seventh double-double of the season, 17 points and 12 rebounds, for the 12th-ranked Gold Rush (18-7).

Coleman scored eight points, and Morris Wright made four technical free throws to spark Xavier to a 14-7 lead through 6½ minutes. But William Carey scored the next 10 points, led 32-27 at halftime and never lost its lead in the second half.

Xavier trimmed a 13-point deficit to seven, 61-54, on Coleman's basket with 5:35 remaining, but the Crusaders ended the game on a 20-4 run.

Kelvin Nixon scored 19 points, Donovan Walker 13 and Jeremiah Dunnings 10 for the Crusaders, who earned a regular-season split with Xavier. The Gold Rush won 90-80 in overtime Dec. 3.

Anthony Goode scored 14 points for Xavier, and Lucas Martin-Julien and Xavier Rogers had eight points apiece. Goode and Martin-Julien each had four assists, and Martin-Julien had six rebounds and two steals.

William Carey outshot Xavier 43.6 to 36.2 percent from the floor and had the advantage in free throws, making 29-of-35 to XU's 14-of-24. In the second half, the Crusaders shot 54.2 percent from the floor and made 21-of-23 free throws.

Xavier's next game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. Monday at XU's Convocation Center against another ranked opponent, No. 24 Philander Smith. Xavier defeated the Panthers 83-78 on Feb. 3.

Box score

By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
https://twitter.com/xulagold
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Shaw Announces Its 2014 Football Schedule

RALEIGH, North Carolina  -- Shaw University announced its 2014 football schedule Wednesday.  The slate features six away and four home games.
 
"This is a challenging schedule, but one that will be a good test for our team," said head coach Robert Massey.  "The nonconference schedule is one of the toughest we've had, but we'll need that to make sure we're ready for the CIAA season."
 
The Bears open with three straight games on the road, sending them as far north as Loretto, PA, to face Division I St. Francis on September 6, then as far south as Fairfield, AL, to take on perennial powerhouse Miles the next week.
 
The Cape Fear Classic will again feature a matchup between Shaw and UNC Pembroke in Wilmington, NC, on September 20.
 
Shaw opens CIAA play with a home contest against Lincoln (PA) the next week.  The schedule also features key division matchups against Fayetteville State and Winston-Salem State, both at home.  The Bears will also travel to Livingstone.
 
Shaw Homecoming celebrations will culminate in a game against Johnson C. Smith on October 25.  The Bears close out the season at cross-town rival Saint Augustine's.
 
Last season, the Bears went 6-4, 4-3 in the CIAA.

COURTESY SHAW UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

VUU Assistant Football Coaches Announced

RICHMOND, Virginia  --  Virginia Union University's head football coach Mark James has completed forming his inaugural support staff, it was announced on Wednesday, February 12.  James' assistant coaches include a former assistant coach from NCAA Division I Auburn University, a former assistant coach from Division I University of Wyoming, and a former assistant coach at Hampton University and Florida A&M University.

The assistant coaches are:

1. Mike Fanoga, Defensive Coordinator
2. Toriano J. Morgan, Passing Game Coordinator
3. Aaron Taylor,  Running Game Coordinator
4. Wes Murphy, Offensive Line/Recruiting Coordinator
5.  Josef Harrison, Defensive Line
6.  Andre LeBlanc, Defensive Backs
7.  Trumaine Watson, Strength & Conditioning
8. Stephen  Velasquez, Kicking
9. Sam Davis, Equipment Manager
10. Bernard Rucker, Special Assistant

CONTINUE READING 

CIAA Banquet brawl: Who's to blame?

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Virginia  --  Donald Reaves’ message to Virginia State University was clear: Whatever you’re selling, I’m not buying.

About 48 hours after VSU issued the findings of its investigation into a November incident that prompted the cancellation of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association football championship game, Winston-Salem State University’s chancellor responded by scoffing at both the report’s conclusions and the methods used in its preparation.

“I cannot understand how the investigator could uncover the facts of the incident when his interviews were limited to people who study or work at VSU. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that they all tell the same story,” Reaves said in a statement last week.

Three months after a fight that broke out during a pregame banquet left Winston-Salem State quarterback Rudy Johnson with multiple injuries, both universities continue to ...

CONTINUE READING

North’s Coney signs with St. Aug’s



SPENCER, North Carolina — Kasaun Coney can drop beats, but secured the football every time it went his way at North Rowan.

Coney, who’s behind the mic in North’s ‘Green and Yellow’ celebration song you’ve probably heard a hundred times at Eagle Stadium, was a leader in the Cavaliers’ defensive backfield for the past two season and a fixture in the North football resurgence.

Coney signed to play at St. Augustine’s Tuesday alongside teammate Xavier Robinson.  It made sense that Robinson, a linebacker who wears No. 8, and Coney, No. 9, signed as a duo.

“It’s kind of crazy that I’m going to college as a Falcon when just a couple of months ago I didn’t want anything to do with Falcons,” Coney joked in referencing North rival West Rowan.

North was coming off a 4-8 season two years ago but has put together 21 wins since, the most in the county. The 13 wins in 2013 were a school record and North was ranked No. 1 for much of the season. Coney, a 5-foot-10, 175-pound free safety, was a vital part of ...


XAVIER ROBINSON @ 2:02 mark

CONTINUE READING

FAMU RELAYS CENTRAL: 63rd FAMU Relays - March 1


Meet Information
63rd Annual FAMU Relays

Site: Florida A&M University, Pete Griffin Track Complex Tallahassee, FL

Date: Saturday, March 1, 2014

Time: 9:00am Saturday

Awards: Plaques will be given to first place relays. T-shirts will be given to the first place finisher in each individual event.  (ONLY COLLEGIATE ATHLETES ON A COLLEGE TEAM ARE ELIGIBLE FOR AWARDS)

Scoring: No individual points or team scores awarded.

Entries: All entries must be made online at www.directathletics.com

Entries are due by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday February 25, 2014.  No entries will be accepted after this date.

Entry Limits: College/University teams may have 3 entries of athletes in each individual running event and HJ, PV, SP, D, and J. Teams may enter 2 entries in horizontal jumps; Long Jump and Triple Jump and may enter up to (2) teams in each relay event.

Entry Fees: Entry Fee Per Team: College Men: $300.00, College Women: $300.00, Or $30.00 per entry if there are less than 10 team members. Unattached entries should be emailed to darlene.moore@famu.edu. Make your check for the entry fee payable to: Florida A&M University Athletics Track & Field.  No Personal Checks will be accepted.

Packets: Packets will be ready Friday, February 28, 2014 between 9:00am and 5:00 pm in the Athletic Ticket Office at the Lawson Center (New Gym).

Hotels: There are plenty of hotel rooms available in Tallahassee. However, you should make your reservations as soon as possible.

Parking: Park across the street in Bragg Stadium Football parking lot.

Seating: Athletes must sit in the east stands only.

Any athlete on the track while not actively participating in an event will be disqualified from the meet.
Spikes:
Only 1/4" spikes may be used. (Spikes MUST be checked-in for Inspection)
Warm-up Area:
General warm-ups must be completed outside the fenced track area south of the track. The Gaither Gym will also be available to the athletes.
Coaches are not allowed in the fenced track and field areas.
Protests:
Protest should be made in writing immediately after the event or no later than 30 minutes after the official results have been posted. The protest should be delivered to the meet director in the press box.
Conduct of Field Events:
All horizontal jumps and throw events will be conducted as four jump/throw finals.
Field Venue Surfaces:
Cement platforms are provided for the weight events. Long jump, triple jump, and high jump runways have a rekortan surface.
Implement Weigh-in:
Field implements must be weighed before competition.  Saturday 8:00am-12:30pm
Opening Heights:
            
 
Women
Men
 
 
Women
Men
High Jump
4’8”
6’0”
 
 
4’10”
6’0”
Pole Vault
7’
11’
 
 
7’
11’
 
Cut-off Marks:
 
Women
Men
 
 
Women
Men
LJ
17’0”
21’5”
 
 
16’
22’
TJ
37’0”
44’0”
 
 
34’
44’
SP
35’0”
42’0”
 
 
34’
44’
DT
100’
120’
 
 
90’0”
120’0”
 
Officials:
United Track and Field Officials Association will be the officials for the meet.
Timing and Judging:
Hy-Tek and the FinishLynx System will be used to determine the official time and order of finish for all races. Field event judges will measure, record and post all results on the performance indicator boards for coaches and spectator interest.
Sanctions:
FAMU Relays is sanctioned under the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
Questions:
Wayne Angel- Phone: (850) 599-3835
Head Men Track & Field Coach Fax: (850) 599-3810
Darlene Moore- Phone: (850) 412-7957
Head Women Track & Field Coach Fax: (850) 599-3810

FAMU RELAYS ROLLING SCHEDULE

Session 1: Saturday, March 1, 2014 • Starts 9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m. Women’s 800 Meter Run University / College Finals

Men’s 800 Meter Run University / College Finals

Women’s 400 Meter Dash University / College Finals

Men’s 400 Meter Dash University / College Finals

Women 100m Meter High Hurdles University/ College Finals

Men 110 Meter Hurdles University/ College Finals

Women’s Distance Medley University / College Finals

Men’s Distance Medley University / College Finals


Session 2: Saturday, March 1, 2014 • Starts 12:00 p.m.

11:45 a.m. Opening Ceremonies

Women’s 4x100 Meter Relay University / College Finals

Men’s 4x100 Meter Relay University / College Finals

Women’s 4x800 Meter Relay University / College Finals

Men’s 4x800 Meter Relay University / College Finals

Women’s 100 Meter Dash University / College Finals

Men’s 100 Meter Dash University /College Finals

Women’s 1500 Meter Run University /College Finals

Men’s 1500 Meter Run University /College Finals

Women’s 400 Meter Hurdles University /College Finals

Men 400 Meter Hurdles University / College Finals

Women’s 1600 Sprint Medley University/College Finals

Men’s 1600 Sprint Medley University / College Finals

Women’s 3000 Meter Run University/College Finals

Men’s 3000 Meter Run University / College Finals

Women’s 4x400 Meter Relay University College Finals

Men’s 4x400 Meter Relay University / College Finals

Field Events Schedule

9:00 a.m. Women’s Javelin Throw University / College Finals (4 Throw Final)

•Men’s Javelin Throw University / College Finals to follow Women’s

9:00 a.m. Men’s Long Jump University / College Finals (South Pit)

•Women’s Long Jump University / College Finals (North Pit)

12:00 p.m. Women’s Shot Put University / College Finals (4 Throw Final)

•Men’s Shot Put University / College Finals to follow Women’s

12:00 p.m. Men Discus University/ College Finals (4 Throw Final)

Women’s Discus University/ College Finals to follow Men’s

1:45 p.m. Women’s High Jump University /College Finals

•Men’s High Jump University /College Finals to follow Women’s

12:30 p.m. Women’s Triple Jump University / College Finals (South Pit)

Men’s Triple Jump University / College Finals (North Pit)

3:00 p.m. Women’s Pole Vault University / College Finals

•Men’s Pole Vault University / College Finals to follow Women’s

 
COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

Moton stresses defense to MEAC-leading N.C. Central

DURHAM, North Carolina  — An NBA scout at McDougald-McLendon Gymnasium last month when N.C. Central beat N.C. A&T by 40 points said the blowout kept him from adequately assessing NCCU senior shooting guard Jeremy Ingram.

On Monday, NCCU handled Florida A&M by 43.

FAMU coach Clemon Johnson said he saw plenty not only from Ingram but also from NCCU’s fine point guard and some NCCU big men who make up for their lack of scoring by doing other things well.



“They’re focused. They’re like, ‘Hey, we’re on a mission,’” Johnson said about NCCU. “To be honest with you, at the beginning of the season when people asked me who the best team in the conference is, I told them this team was. Everybody was talking about Norfolk (State). No, Norfolk can’t touch these guys. These guys are on a mission.”

It’s a straight forward to-do list for NCCU: Finish first in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. Win the MEAC Tournament, which would send NCCU to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in school history.

The Eagles are perched atop the MEAC with one league loss.

CONTINUE READING

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

William Carey gives Xavier its third consecutive defeat

HATTIESBURG, Mississippi -- Xavier University of Louisiana suffered its third consecutive defeat in women's basketball, 57-50 against William Carey on Tuesday.

Tiffany Sims scored 12 of her 16 points in the final 13 minutes to help the Lady Crusaders (7-11) pull away from the Gold Nuggets (17-9).

Whitney Gathright scored 14 points for Xavier, ranked 23rd in NAIA Division I. Vinnie Briggs scored nine points, and Danielle Tucker had eight points, nine rebounds and three steals.

Alesha Smith's basket with 16:29 remaining gave Xavier its final lead, 31-30. Ciera Sibley's basket after an offensive rebound put William Carey ahead to stay on the next possession and started a decisive 12-4 run.

The Gold Nuggets cut William Carey's lead to three twice in the final four minutes, but both times the Lady Crusaders scored on the ensuing possession.

Sibley had 13 points, 14 rebounds and three steals.

William Carey outshot the Gold Nuggets 35.7 to 26.7 from the floor -- 46.2 to 19.4 in the second half -- and outrebounded them 48-40. The Lady Crusaders had a 13-12 advantage in steals and produced 16 assists on 20 field goals.

Gathright and Paige Gauthier each made two of Xavier's five 3-pointers. The Gold Nuggets made 13-of-16 free throws; Gathright made all eight of her attempts.

Xavier led 5-0 in the opening minute and 14-7 after 7½ minutes, but William Carey rallied for a tie at 26 at halftime.

It was the fourth consecutive road game for Xavier, whose next game will start at 5:30 p.m. Monday against Gulf Coast Athletic Conference opponent Philander Smith.

By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
https://twitter.com/xulagold
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