The Spokesmman, Feb 13, 1997

Abstract

Dawn Coleman Feature: Senior Dawn Coleman, a history and education major, discussed her experience posing nude for Black Tail magazine. She faced mixed reactions from the campus community but emphasized her views on body positivity and personal freedom. Coleman shared insights into her dual persona, balancing her stage name "Silver" with her everyday identity, and addressed the impact of her decision on her future teaching career. Bomb Threats: The university responded to a series of bomb threats in the fall of 1996 that targeted academic buildings like Holmes, Banneker, and Spencer Halls. The Morgan State University Police Department, in collaboration with the Baltimore Crime Lab, took measures to prevent recurrence and provided guidelines for the community on handling such threats. A suspect was apprehended, but efforts to ensure campus safety continued. Black History Month: Various articles and columns celebrated Black History Month, emphasizing the importance of Afrocentric values, community engagement, and historical awareness. Events and activities planned for the month included lectures, convocation, and cultural festivals. Athletics: The sports section highlighted achievements and profiles of athletes, including the Men's Basketball team's home victories and standout player Rasheed Sparks. The Women's Basketball team, led by Coach Darcel Estep, exceeded expectations by securing a strong position in the MEAC standings. The issue also featured a profile of Aaron Moore, a top-ranked junior tennis player, and his impact on the university's tennis program. Entertainment and Reviews: Reviews of music albums and movies, including Tony Toni Toné's "House of Music," were featured. The entertainment section also discussed the portrayal of African Americans in television sitcoms and the evolution of these portrayals over time. Editorials and Opinions: The edition included editorials on various topics such as the role of HBCU athletes as ambassadors, the societal impact of gangster rap, and reflections on African American celebrity status. The opinions expressed addressed the need for positive role models and the challenges faced by Black celebrities in the media. Community and Student Life: The newspaper covered events and initiatives like the annual "I Love Morgan Day," career development opportunities, and community service activities. Articles emphasized the importance of student involvement and the legacy of HBCUs.