the deal with the canes...
 

ok...my question to you gentlemen.

How do you feel about other orgs using canes?
Do you feel offended by it or what?

I pose this because...my guy is a nupe. When i was practicing with my sorors at a neighboring school for a stepshow, they said we had one part where we use canes.
So anyways, he was up in arms about the fact we were using them and was talkin mad sh*t. So what makes it that no other org should use them? I was taught that the men of KAPsi taught the ladies of SGRho to step with canes back in the day in Indiana. I do not mean we should be bopping, twirling, and the whole nine yards, but we use them for beat. We could have just as well used sticks...but canes are usually easier to find. Anyways, some responses would be apprieciated...

Total ArRHOgance #4
WIN 01
Iota Psi "Covergirl Chapter"
10 pearls and 2 rubies make a true woman

I've been to three stepshows in the past month and I think I've seen just about every org. using canes. Besides Kappas, I'd seen SGRhos and Sigmas use them, but never anybody else. At a show I was at last weekend, sorors came onstage in pink jumpsuits and started twirling green canes.. my mouth was wide open. It was just something I'd never seen before.

You aint neva eva seen a Que twirling no cane, nor will you ever. Cane twirling belongs to Kappas. No one else should ever pick up a cane in a stepshow, especially Sigmas. Do your own stuff. As many old school Kappas as I know, none of them have ever stated that Kappas taught SGRhos to step with canes. Having worked with a Kappa Provincial officer (Spr '83), the whole Indiana Love thing is a recent (post 90's) phenomenon and Kappas would not have been teacher their art to any sorority.

I don't know if you care, but there's a guy who wrote some paper on the History of Stepping and he does a lot of tours and goes to different conferences and universities and speaks about.
I don't know if he's greek or not.

Anyway, I'm not sure where he got his sources, but he says Phi Beta Sigma was the first to use canes, and Kappas made it their own by perfecting twirling. So if you want to be technical, who "owns" the use of canes?

I'm not sure where you are, but many BLGO at Black colleges and Univ. step with canes. They don't step with the same style as KAPsi. The don't do a lot of twirling. But the use canes nonetheless.

I go to many step shows and many sororities step with canes. Sigma Gamma Rhos especially.

Divine Zeta

No, I never saw Omegas with canes. I'd never seen my sorors with canes either though, nor did I expect to. But sure enough, there they were. I'd heard the same thing as DivineZeta, so I never thought much of Sigmas using them. I really don't have an opinion one way or the other, probably because the cane has no significance to me. Which is the argument some would make as to why a person with that perspective shouldn't be stepping with one, I'm sure. That's understandable... I never gave the issue much thought until now and I'm interested to see how Kappas feel about the subject.

Four of my friends share an apartment. Two are Kappas and they share a room. I think there's a total of about 4 to 5 canes up on the wall and they fall every oh.... 10 minutes or so. But the number one house rule is that you don't touch the canes. Doesn't matter if they fall off the wall, fall on the floor, fall on YOU, whatever. ;) One of my LS's made the mistake of reaching to pick one up off the floor... everbody that visits regularly was like.... "NOOOOOO!!!!" :eek: I've learned in the greek world that what's ordinary to you can be very significant to another org... so it's just important to be respectful. Sorry for getting so off topic. :)

And the Kappas have yet to say anything.......I find that interesting but my Kappa sands always says "If people wanted to step with Canes you should have pledged Kappa"

Sphinxpoet

Probably because GC is DEVOID, WITHOUT, MINUS any active, regular KAPPAS.:confused:

I'm new to this, so I hope I'm doing this right. First off I'd like to say that I too have heard that PBS is the orginator of not only cane stepping, but stepping in general. But if it were not true, it's very rude to say that "especially Sigma's" should not be picking up a cane!
I'm a SGRho I have always known my sorors to step w/ canes! We have the same respect for our canes as Kappas. Soror, sorry I have never heard that the Kappa's taught us how to use them in Indy. :confused: Furthermore, DoggyStyle it is irrelivant to talk about Indy Luv, b/c that has nothing to do w/ them teaching cane steps. And how would you know what a Kappa would teach? You're not one. :mad:
Anyway, I have seen PBS, Kappas, Zetas, Detas, AKAs, and SGRho's all step w/ canes here in the midwest. I understand the feeling of the Kappas. However, it's not like anyone has taken their style. Whether they have a right to be upset, that is something that can not be addressed because no one can control their feelings and people vary. :confused: I'm not anal when it comes to someone touching my cane or my letters like some of my sorors. But I do expect RESPECT for organization, meaning as long as they aren't using my cane or wearing my letters I'm cool. :cool: However a person wants respect shown is different, and I understand everyone's rational is significant to them. :)
I will say numerous SGRho chapters step with canes, and all I can say is sorors keep on stepping! :) It's not gonna stop now! Just as long as nobody is stealing someone else's moves, it's all good! Now that's another topic, "Greeks that steal other organizations steps."

Rhapsody in Blue
#3-Fall 1997
Blue and Gold Rules Everything Around Me! :)
EEEEEEEEEEEE-YIP!!!!!!!!!!!

the deal with the canes....
 

I have to say that when I was an undergrad, the Kappas on my campus worked with us when it came to using canes. So to say that Kappas would not teach SGRho or any other group how to work a cane...is way too general of a statement to make. We appreciated their help and I know they did not mind showing us a few cane steps. They knew we were not trying to claim it as our own, but it was taught to us that SGRho's were the first sorority to really start using canes, in honor of Kappa. My chapter was founded in "87", and my sorors were using canes then, so it is not just an "Indiana Love Thang", And I as well have seen alot of groups use canes or the smaller sticks (sorry...I do not know the proper name). But I have also heard that Sigmas were the first to step with canes as well. So...I guess you could go back and forth on that issue forever. (I do have to give props to those who can step with the canes, because it is not easy! :) But I can also understand if the Kappas feel as if no-one should use the canes, because it does seems as if we all have borrowed moves, steps, ideas from other orgs., to the point where you have no idea who really started what.

It is very ironic to me that I have not heard a Kappa yet comment on this question. I too am sort of curious as to what they think....I know this may seem off the wall but I was taught that the Alpha's started using canes but they stopped because the Kappa's "stole that style". From this the Alpha's simply let the Kappa's have the stepping with canes style.

Oh, by the way, I am new to this site so I hope no feathers were ruffled:cool: . Halla back.

You can't believe everything you hear.
 

If you heard that, it's bullshit! I aint neva seen or heard of ANY chapter of MY BRUHS using a cane! Where the hell did you cross? Alphas aint NEVA used a cane for jack shit!

For the SECOND time (see CrimsonTide4's post for the first mention), the Kappas have been missing in action since August. That's why they haven't responded.

The Kane issue
 

Recently Fresno State had their annual step show.

Well some Sigmas from Sacramento went out there and did their thing, BUT ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE when they took out some blue and white canes. I mean the Kappa section almost knocked over the S G Rho section. A Que had to stop one Kappa from getting on the stage.

And let me just put it out there, I am so tired of Sigmas

1. Claiming the Kanes
2. Being the originators of stepping
3. Claiming they were the first to have a "dogmatic" image.
4. The first to hop.

So if one organization founded all these things, WHY OH WHY DIDN'T YOU KEEP THEM??? Shouldn't this of been passed down like your other traditons? I'm sorry, but I have seen pictures of Ques back in the 30's and Kappas in the 40's with Kanes(from older relatives) so if it worked with them, why didn't it with the Sigmas?

So that is why I :rolleyes: when I hear them talk about it. Maybe you do have proof, but my question is WHO ROCKS THE KANES/DOGMATIC IMAGE/HOPPING NOW? And I got an answer, it's ain't the Sigmas.


I've had this arguement many times before and I'm sure this isn't the last.


QTE ;)

This is all very amusing. First of all, the "Kane" has a different level of signifiance for Nupes. It is not just something that used as a prop in stepshows. And yes, as a Nupe I have seen other organizations use canes at shows and yes, I have heard that other organizations used canes before it became synonymous with members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. However, the kane has special significance for us because of what it stands for, so while other groups may appear with them, they are in no way the same "kanes" that Nupes hold dear.

And not to diminish the topic or the replies because the question is an interesting one, but perhaps the Nupes have not replied because this matter has been a trivial one to us for some time. I only decided to add my "two cents" as a point of clarification.

well said...no need for anyone else to reply...lol...hahaha...:p ;)

the deal with the canes....
 

Hey DoggyStyle82,

I think it is safe to say that you can never be accused of not speaking your mind!! :) I do have a question for you? (hopefully you will not mind).
Is it about my man Steve Harvey (love him). I know he is Que, but I have always wondered when and where he became a Que?

Thanks...

Tenacious1922

Re: Re: The Kane issue
 

What do you mean "doesn't apply to SGRho if that is part of your history?" :confused: Didn't understand the statement. :confused:

Re: the deal with the canes....
 

Steve Harvey pledged at Psi Gamma Chapter at Kent State univ in Ohio in 1977, however he was not formally initiated until 1998.

Re: Re: Re: The Kane issue
 

Sorry. I don't know where SGRho's history with the cane came from nor how long its been part of your history. I see a lot of them perform with them and some without. I say that I don't know because I never saw many SGRhos until the mid -90's. None of the 70's or 80's Nupes that I know never mentioned a relationship with SGRho or about teaching them the art of "kaning". If the cane is part of your history, I'll take your word for it. It definitely could be the case in the midwest and I'll take a SGRho's word on that before I trust my limited observation of your org.

DoggyStyle82,

While I appreciate your right to your opinions, can we agree to disagree and not be disagreeable?

To my knowledge, no Sigma Man has come to this forum saying negative things about Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., so why do you feel the need to voice hostility towards Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.?

I have nothing but respect for Alphas, Kappas, Omegas and Iotas. All I ask is that you respect my org in return.


Texas_Dove

For anyone interested in learning more about Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. involvement with canes, stepping etc...please check out http://www.sigmahistory.cjb.net.

I think this website goes a long way in clearing up "misconceptions" about Sigma.

To DoggyStyle82: I understand your position on these matters (I don't agree, but understand your position) and look forward to "chatting" with you in the future.

Texas_Dove

Texas Dove you are class act
 

and I love that site. :)

Thanks for the info. Very interesting and informative. Knowledge beats supposition any day. The old pics with the canes was proof enough so I must acquiesce on that being in their tradition. It must be regional because it is not universal as with the Kappas.

PLEASE send me a pm!!!!

Baby UM back....
 

Man, it's been a minute since I have been up in here... up in here.
I see things haven't changed much.
It is amazing how quickly dicussions can get heated in this camp.

Well let me put my two cents in.

I do agree with DoggyStyle a little. Frats should do what they do and what they do, only. However, I am sure that some where down the line, some organizations have bitten the styles of other organizations. Nevertheless, we all have a unique style that is "Often imitated :D but never duplicated." I don't care how many organizations started with, used, or incorporated a kane into their history.

NOBODY KNOWS ABOUT KANE like a NUPE:cool: (notice I didn't say Kappa) KNOWS ABOUT KANE ... and I'm not just talking about founders either.

You can twirl it, flip it, roll it, catch it and even hook it.
But until you get in the KUT:mad:, you don't know anything about it!

THAT IS THE DEAL WITH THE KANES.


"Youngblood"
SPR 93
Theta Lambda
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Re: Baby UM back....
 

That's a'ight, tho' Bobby Earl. The only thing I need to know about canes is that I am good at twirlin' 'em and that in dueling with Kappas on skills, I represent with the best of 'em. :cool:

THAT is the deal, and I know it better then Monty Hall himself ;)

No hard feelings

Rain Man

Thanks
 

TEXAS_DOVE,

I visited your site. It was very informative. I have been a NUPE:cool: for more than a few years, so I have heard a lot of myths, tales, beliefs, and folk stories about Kappa Alpha Psi and all the other Black Frats. However, nothing is like reading, komprehending, and drawing your own konclusion. Unfortunately, so many young (sometimes old, too) brothers chose to believe what the "Ol Skool" brothers tell them and not seek the truth and arrive at their own konclusions.

Thank You for providing us with some "light".

Oh yeah:rolleyes:, almost forget....

Rainman:confused: , you keep practicing with your freshly taped cane (notice I didn't spell it with a K), maybe one day you will be the best :D twirler in the whole wide world. When your doing a difficult move, be careful of the end on the opposite side of the hook. It can sting a little. :eek:

For the record Ms Crimson Tide,

I happen to be an active brother.:p Highly irregular, but active, none the less.

You just gave me an idea for a new thread.

LOL, BobbyEarl, when I wrote this I was referring to the fact that no Kappas were present on GC on an active, regular basis to answer the question posed to YOU ALL AS KAPPAS yet other orgs were coming up in your forum and asking this question as well as trying to answer on your (KAPPA) behalf. That is all I meant. :D

Re: Thanks
 

Yo, Bobby Earl

Thanx for the word of encouragement. As a long time cane twirler (eight years and counting), I probably am among the world's best in such a talent--well, at least I have the confidence that I am. As far as the opposite end of the hook stinging, you ain't lying about that, don't remind me. Yes, I keep it freshly taped for appearance purposes. As far as spelling kane with a c or a k, well, let's not split hairs, shall we?

Thanx again and see ya 'round.

Da Rain Man

When I attended to Austin Peay State University, I visited Tennessee State University with some of my friends. We were walking around the campus and saw some AKAs with canes. I have always seen Kappas (and the only ones) with Kanes. I guess it is okay. At the same time, it does look tacky when I see the Sigmas and Que Dogs with Kanes because most of the time they are crawling on the floor like ants!!!!!!!!!!! Oh by the way, I am a member of the Sophisticated and Elegant Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Pardon KAPsi for interrupting the thread, but welcome cjbachus. Please come over to AKA Ave. and introduce yourself.
:)

Alphas with canes! That would be some ridiculous stuff to see. I've seen sigmas, sgrhos, AKAs, and even my sorors (DST) use canes so I don't think it should be a big issue. Although the cane is most associated with them men of Kappa Alpha Psi, so it doesn't suprise me that some Kappas may find it offensive to see other organizations use it for show. By the way, the day I see a Que or Alpha pick up a cane is the day pigs fly!

okay...
 

This thread is definitely on its way to winning the most stupid thread award.

Folks you are revealing how little exposure you really have in NPHC life...:rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Its not cool. And it just reads as plain ignorant.

Hey Girl! (FinerWoman)
 

:rolleyes:

It is amazing, isn't it?

I have seen all the NPHC orgs with canes even my own Sorors. However, I prefer not to see my Sorors with canes because it just disturbs me I don't know why.

You ain't never see no Ques with canes!!! unless they were clownin' the Kappas. :o

LOL!

This is why I love those Ques! they're so "doggone" real.

Kanes to Nupes...
 

The truth is....
If some of you greeks stop looking at your fraternal history from the last 3 lines and look deep into the past, you will find that members of each and everyone of your organizations carried canes. In the past, canes were a representation of presitge, wealth, and respect. Canes were a symbol of honor and so, many, many men carried them within the BGLO's.Ques...oh, sorry...Omega men, Alpha's Kappa's and Sigma's. As far as the men of Kappa Alpha Psi goes...they carry it in remembrence of Paul W. Caine who died in 1922 due to an explosion at his business. So understand, to Kappa's, this kane is a connection, a remembrance, and a dedication to a fallen brother. Not mearly a piece of wood with electrical tape around it. To them, it really is sacred. That is why they are so close to it. The men of Phi Beta Sigma were not the first to carry canes, but they were the first to step with them in a rythmic way. You see, stepping is a hand me down of African dance and military drill and ceremony movements. Soldiers returning from the military incorporated these drill movements into what has evolved as modern day stepping. The men of Phi Beta & KAY first used the "walking" version of the cane while the men of KAY eventualy cut the cane and used the shortened version to "twirl" with. And understand this, twirling is very new in comparision of how old the fraternity really is. Twirling became associated with KAY because they "perfected" it if you will. Phi Beta Sigma didn't twirl, they beat the canes on the ground to a rythm, the passed the canes in a ripple fashion, they tossed the canes through the air, but they didn't twirl until after KAY popularized it. Alpha's and Que's abandoned the cane once it became "commercialized" by Phi Beta and KAY. So they embloyed other methods of individualization. And so, to this day, Kappa's and Sigma's carry canes. But for very different reasons.
Like I said, your history runs much deeper then the few ol' heads you see comming back for homecoming. Set yourself on a quest for truth and search. You will be surprised at what you will find.

Once again...Prince Hall Masons lead from the front.

Mr. Wizard of Ahh's
Stand Apart, Stand Alone