PG.5
PG.4
Vol. 75 / No. 24
PG.8
April 2, 2015
www.thejsuflash.com
Jackson State students hold sit-in protest in Heritage Dining Hall
Photo: William Kelly Students raise hands during sit-in protest to indicate that they have had issues with members of campus police.
Guy King and William Kelly Staff Writers Students at Jackson State University held a sit-in protest yesterday at the Heritage Dining Hall in support of Rahim Aponte, a sophomore criminal justice major from Atlanta, Ga. Aponte was arrested by campus police on Sunday, March 29, when he refused to leave the dining hall which was closing. He was later charged with disorderly conduct by the City of Jackson Police Department and given a fine of $345.
INSIDE
“I was in the cafeteria, I had just got out of practice and honestly I wasn’t aware that the cafeteria closed at 7 p.m. on Sundays. I got my plate after 7, it was about 7:03 p.m. I got my food and when I sat down, the security came over there and told us that we had to leave. I had just got my food, I hadn’t eaten all day so I said, ‘I understand where y’all are coming from, but I’m going to finish my food, just let me finish my food,’” said Aponte. Aponte, a member of the JSU track and field team, was with several of his teammates
JSU Events................. 2
at the time of the incident. “While eating in the café two officers came by our table asking us to leave, because it was closing time. Rahim had just got his plate and understood that the café was about to close, but he wanted to finish his meal. While trying to finish, the officers came to Rahim and took his plate. The food from the plate fell on Rahim’s head, and the situation began to escalate,” said William Carroll, also a track team member and a freshman civil engineering major from Mobile, Ala. “From that point, the officers
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went too far and the situation could have been avoided.” On Monday, an edited video (source unknown) was circulated among many students on the campus who were outraged at what they perceived to be excessive force from the officers. Word spread around the campus via text messages that a demonstration would be held in the dining hall on April 1. One of the messages read: “Update on sit-in: If asked to leave the cafeteria please respond with “We have a voice.”” Remember that this is a PEACEFUL demonstration.
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Variety................ 5
Refrain from the use of profanity.” Ariana Smith, a senior biology major from Oklahoma City, Okla. said this after seeing the video. “I feel like it wasn’t right. I feel like the police used excessive force without a reason to. I feel like they violated him and he never did anything to them. And I feel like they’re not properly trained to handle situations like that because clearly if they were trained, it wouldn’t have happened like that. A lot of stuff slides with the campus police and they get away with
Meet the Candidates..... 6-7
Tiger Events
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JSU Campus Briefs
The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu
Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.
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Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.
The Blue & White Flash SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager
KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer
MARK BRABOY Associate Editor
GUY KING News Editor
WILLIAM KELLY Photographer/Student Designer
Jeremy Anderson Orionna Brumfield Dejha Carlisle Christoper Chapman Dwayne Joseph Jr. Kenya Johnson Octavis Lawson
Elissa McCool Dominique McCraney Ashton Nash Alexis Neely Brittney Snell Reese Tornes Da’Niecia Washington
Letters To The Editor
Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.
Editorial Staff
The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.
Publication/Distribution Information The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.
The Blue & White Flash
JSU STUDENTS PRESENT AFRICAN ART EXHIBIT APRIL 10 The art students of JSU have pulled together an exhibit of African art that has been donated to the university, and which will be shown at an opening event in the Ayer Hall at 1 PM on April 10th. There are three themes that will be expressed during this party: Cosmology in African Art, Images of Animals in African Art, and Images of Ancestors in African Art. For more information, email:yumi.park@jsums. edu.
annual Creative Arts Festival will be held Friday, April 10, 2015 at the JSC Theater room 2200 at 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. HIV AWARENESS AND TESTING RALLY A hotspot will be held for the HIV Awarenes and Testing Rally Wednesday, April 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
JSU JROTC RECRUITMENT DAY The JSU JROTC Recruitment Day will be Saturday, April 11 at the SOE Auditorium, room 200 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Timothy THEE WE RUN Abram at (601) 979-6390 Thee We Run is a fitness or email timothy.l.abram@ movement that promotes jsums.edu. healthy fitness lifestyles to students, faculty, alumni, ALCOHOL TIPS UNIVERSITY families, communities, and TRAINING the youth through fitness. It will begin Monday, April 6 This training will provide at 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. in the participants the tools to learn specific strategies AAC. and skills for intervening in alcohol related situations JSU GENTLEMEN’S ACADEMY FORUM that may develop on JSU Gentlemen’s Academy campus. It will be held forum will be held Thursday, Monday, April 13 at the JSC April 9, 2015 at the JSC building, room 3213 from Theater room 2200 at 5 p.m. 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For to 6:00 p.m. more information, contact Henry T.. Thompson at CREATIVE ARTS (601) 979-1197 or email FESTIVAL henry.thompson@jsums. The opening panel of the edu.
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The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
“Do you vote in campus elections? Why or why not?” Compiled by Mark Braboy and Reese Tornes
Lakesha Sims Freshman Accounting Chicago, Ill.
“I just don’t. I’m just not interested”
Jazmine Thomas Junior Milwaukee, Wis. Psychology
“I am going to participate in this year’s election because I know everyone on the ballot that’s in my class.”
Frantreasea Williams Freshman Criminal Justice Crystal Springs, Miss.
“I participate because there are certain things to be done and certain needs that need to be met. Some of the candidates can make a difference on campus.”
Cartoon: Reese Tornes
You have a voice, it’s called voting! COMMENTARY Jakyria Smith Atlanta, Ga. Junior Management
“I haven’t participated in a year, but I plan on doing so this year. I want to be more than a body here at JSU.”
Jalin Smith Sophomore Computer Engineering Chicago, Ill.
“I’ll participate because I know a lot of people that’s running and I know how they are and the difference that they will make at Jackson State.”
Natasha Devon Speech /Theater Junior Chicago, Ill.
“Sometimes I do as far as voting for people, but I don’t sometimes because I believe that it’s rigged.” Mark Braboy Associate Editor
Keleigh Wiliams Sophomore Psychology Sierra Vista, Ariz.
“If I had a friend that I knew that was going for a position, I would participate but I don’t because its just a popularity contest.”
Tyesha Kidd Senior Childcare Education Jackson, Miss “I do participate in voting but I won’t this year. I feel like people aren’t genuine in what they’re running for.”
Carleigh Smith Brandon, Miss. Sophomore Elementary Education
“I always vote. It’s just a chance to try to get who I want to see win in a position of power. If I had a chance to express my opinion I would.”
Raquetta Allen Junior Biology Olive Branch, Miss.
“Sometimes. If I don’t now who’s running, I vote for who’s got the best food and other stuff. The candidates don’t promote anymore.”
Kamaria Malone Memphis, Tenn. Biology Senior
“I participate in elections, but I feel like it’s become a joke. It’s not like it’s a political decision. I once voted for someone because he was fine.”
Brianna Gardner Sophomore Biology Jackson, Miss.
“I do because it gives you a chance to make your voice heard.”
Young people are powerful. We are powerful and influential in ways that we cannot begin to imagine, especially when it comes to elections. It is a known fact that our voting power in this country truly makes a significant difference. Our participation in the 2008 and 2012 presidential elections shows this. However, the overall attitude of a lot of young people in my generation is that they just do not care to participate in political elections. Growing up, I always looked at voting as an important, but cool thing to do. Voting was the thing to do in me and my sister’s eyes. Heck, we watched President George W. Bush and his administration practically tear down the country for eight long years, only to vote the first African-American president into office. It was exciting to
finally have a political say so for the first time. So when I began to hear people talk about not participating in elections it was unfathomable to me. As time went on however, and while I still strongly disagree with it, I understand why a lot of poor and disenfranchised people do not vote. While a lot of us do not actually vote, we are the most politically aware and engaged out of every generation and have an insane degree of exposure to all kinds of information. A lot of people my age just simply do not know how the political machine works. All across social media, you can see all kinds of propaganda that prey on frustrated young. The other reason, and perhaps the biggest, is because a lot of people are simply not satisfied with the system and feel voiceless. When we look at a lot of elections, all we see are a bunch of socially detached men and women who only show up in the community when they are looking for a job with a lot of perks. Many of these politicians do not really care to take the issues of young people, ages 18-35, seriously enough and we see through that. In our minds, we are thinking “I spent my time trying to vote for this person and they didn’t do anything for me! Why should I keep voting for people who just
give lip service?” Today, it’s more evident to us that the system is broken. Voting in 2015 feels more like picking the lesser of two evils more than picking the best candidate that will address the issues that matter to us. Even student government elections suffer low turnouts. A lot of people do not participate in voting because they feel that the people who are elected do not have the best interests of the student body at heart, but only want power, privilege, and favor for themselves. Overall, it is not that we do not care about the issues we face, it is just that we do not care for the people who claim that they represent the people, because we know it’s a lie. The problem is that whenever we choose not to vote, the people who we do not want in power end up becoming elected. I believe that if more of us voted against the people that we do not want in power, it can help. It is not an end all, be all solution, but it can prevent worst case scenarios from happening. It is better for us to participate rather than to just to sit back and let the world crumble.
The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
News
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The Blue & White Flash
Surprise ending announced for 2015 Miss JSU Pageant Ashton Nash Staff Writer
A surprise twist to this year’s Miss Jackson State University pageant had students in an uproar on social media on Tuesday, March 31. Twitter posts expressing outrage over the outcome of the pageant flooded many social media sites including Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Snapchat. Anticipation of the Roaring 20’s themed pageant, The Blue Gatsby, was high as seven candidates vied for the top three spots and the chance to make it to the ballot. All contestants where judged on five individual categories: Interview, OnStage Questions, Tiger Pride, talent and evening wear. The ladies could receive a total of 300 points. At the end of the pageant, three young ladies where announced as the top three contestants moving out of the pageant. They were: Markeisha Robinson, Robin Jackson and Charance Higgins. The evening took an unexpected turn however, when the Election Commission comprised of 11 JSU students, discovered discrepancies with the tally sheets for the candidates.
After much deliberation, the election commission reached a unanimous decision and determined that all candidates in the pageant would be allowed to run for Miss JSU. Candidates were informed of the decision in an emergency meeting later that evening. “After the pageant, it is the duty of the election commission to review all score sheets submitted by the judges. Upon doing so, we found that several judges had scored contestants more than one time per category. Then the official score sheet went missing and the election commission never received it so we decided to be fair and allow all seven girls the opportunity to run for the title of Miss JSU,” said Guy King, Chair of the Election Commission. Many students across the campus were shocked at the news and an uproar on social media ensued. Some of the comments found on Twitter included: “Jackson State’s SGA elections are crucial but not crucial enough to be this damn political. JSU is NOT the end all be all….well at least not in real life. Cheater’s never win” “JSU had an Oprah moment… ‘YOU GET TO RUN! YOU GET TO RUN! EVERYBODY GETS
TO RUN!’” “ W h a t ’s the point of all this s*%#. Just appoint who yall want. Don’t do all the extras*%#.” “I see JSU started April Fools early with the pageant.” M a n y students on the campus are divided on what happened at the pageant. “The pageant overall was nice. I’m not exactly sure if I agree with how everything with the results turned out just because it’s kind of taking away that honor from those who originally made it out of the pageant,” said Stacie Hopkins, a senior psychology major from Chicago, Ill. Cherese Pendleton, a senior mass communications major from Hattiesburg, Miss. said, “I think that what ever happened, it happened
Image created by William Kelly
for a reason. It is extremely impossible for a candidate who was running to mess with the score sheets. I think who ever is over the election; their advisors should go over the score
sheets to make sure that ever ything was fair.” JSU students will head to the polls on April 10 to make their selections for the 2015-2016 Miss JSU and other SGA positions.
Candidates vie for coveted Student Government Association positions
William Kelly Photographer/Student Designer Nervous jitters, leg shaking, and nail biting anxiety clouded the auditorium of College of Engineering on March 30 as Jackson State University held its 2015-2016 Student Government Association (SGA) candidate speeches. The freshman class of 2018, Thee GreatOne8, set the tone for those who followed
with their confidence and mic presence. “I feel the candidates will make an impact compared to my previous years of SGA candidacy. I know that these candidates will fulfill their talk and bring everything that they have to the table,” said Shontrice Garrett, a senior mathematics major from East St. Louis, Ill. Each class candidate spoke to the student body and other candidates present, stating
their campaign platforms. Following the freshman class, Thee Elite Class of 2017 candidates took the stage. Loud screams and cheers filled the auditorium as the candidates approached the podium. Sterlen Griffin, a freshman accounting major from Madison, Miss., was impressed by the speeches of many of the candidates. “I think that the creativity put into people’s speeches
shows that they actually care and they are not just running for a position,” said Griffin. Immediately following the sophomore class, was the class of 2016, Thee Superb 16. Each class created a humorous atmosphere as they yelled class chants and teased other classmates. Savannah Greene, a freshman chemistry major from Detroit, Mich., is expecting a very positive and fulfilling experience for the 2015-2016 academic school year. “I look forward to better school spirit and an overall more welcoming atmosphere for all students, regardless of their classification,” said Greene. Last but not least, Thee Extreme and Supreme senior class, including the seven candidates for Miss JSU and three candidates for the position of SGA President, demanded immediate attention from the crowd by interacting with the students
in unique and fun ways. The overall experience included laughter between candidates and the student body when candidates made errors, held sing-a-longs with candidates, and relayed hearttouching childhood stories. Jauan Knight, a freshman running from SGA Justice received a standing ovation from the crowd. “Jauan Knight personally stood out the most. I believe this is because I was unfamiliar with him as a classmate but I feel like I know him enough now due to him being humble, genuine, and open with TheGreatOne8!,” said Jennifer Wiles, a freshman mass communications major from New Orleans, La. Formal SGA debates will take place today, April 2, in the Student Center Theater from 5 -7 p.m. and JSU students will head to the polls on April 10 from 9 a.m. – to 4 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 3250. Results will be announced at 5 p.m.
News
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The Blue & White Flash
Mass Communications department forecast is sunny Comm Day to gain insight into the changing trends in media. “Mass Comm Day is important because students Future leaders of the mass get a chance to hear from media shared industry tips professionals, but they also get and advice to Jackson State a chance to really network with University students at the professionals. The professionals Mississippi e-Center on April give them an insight about what 1, 2015 during Mass Comm they can expect in the field,” Day. said Anthony. The annual event Hayes-Anthony added, serves as a celebration and “Students get a chance to receive networking opportunity for accolades from the department students, alumni and media about the job that they have professionals. been doing in mass comm, Director of the Department of and we only want to make that Mass Communications, Elayne better every year.” Hayes-Anthony, gave a forecast The event opened up with for the department to students a meet and greet, and students concerning the changes in the got the chance to network with department. professionals and alumni. The “The forecast for the guest speaker and moderator Department of Mass for the event was Ronika Ann Communications is sunny! We Joyner, CEO and Founder of expect all highs. We don’t expect InGENEus Public Relations any lows. & CO. in We will It’s good to feel rewarded for Atlanta, Ga. have a your hard work and to feel noticed and 2011 very able graduate of in this department, it makes bodied JSU. students feel good and valued advisory Joyner board spoke to the - Jeremy Anderson working students along with us as we make changes, about the importance of as we make enhancements (to internships, networking and the department),” said Hayes- branding their name and Anthony during the event. their professional work. She She also believes that also gave an insight on what students should attend Mass it takes to start and run your Dashawna Wright Staff Writer
“
own business and how she got started in the business of public relations. Mia Brooks, a senior mass communication major from Minnesota, Ind. enjoyed the opportunity to hear from her fellow Jacksonians and the paths the alumni chose to take after graduation. “I really like Mass Comm Day this year. I enjoyed hearing from young alumni like Ronika Joyner and hearing their stories and how they reached success,” said Brooks. Following Joyner was the alumni and industry panel. The young alumni panel consisted of four ambitious mass communications graduates, who spoke to the students about their hardships, dedication and the need to strive in the fields of journalism, media production and entrepreneurship. Andrew Nomura, reporter for WAFB-TV, Baton Rouge, La., Marissa Simms, owner of Royal Bleau Boutique, Mea Ashley, Alumni Constituency Relations Program Specialist at JSU, and LaVale Leggett, executive producer of “The Lavale Show all came back to participate in the event. The industry panel consisted of: Justin MooreReporter/anchor for WABG TV, Kamel King- Terminal Studios/
Photo: William Kelly New technology, Google Glass, demonstrated at Mass Comm Day.
entertainment lawyer, and Kathy Times, author, former national NABJ president and media consultant. Students also received recognition for their dedication and hard work during the awards ceremony. Jeremy Anderson, a sophomore mass communications student from Baton Rouge, La., said he feels that it is very important for
students to receive rewards for their performances and that he is looking forward to next year. “It’s good to feel rewarded for your hard work and to feel noticed in this department, it makes students feel good and valued,” said Anderson. “What I’m looking forward to the most next year is better equipment, more organization and more involvement from students and myself.”
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Sixty-four school districts attend Teacher Recruitment Day
File Photo
Rosie Dunlap Staff Writer Jackson State University students hoping to enter the field of education had a chance to meet with 64 school districts on March 26 in the annual Teacher Recruitment Day sponsored by the JSU Career Services Center. “Teacher Recruitment Day
was designed for students that are in the education field and those considering entering into education. The Career Services Center provides an opportunity for these students to meet one on one with representatives from various school districts across the nation,” said Alissa Hughes, CSC Coordinator. Many students attending
were pleased to learn that some of the schools districts would be hiring students on the spot and they could potentially have jobs waiting for them after graduation. “I feel as though Teacher Recruitment Day is good because it allows the graduating seniors and upcoming seniors a chance to get out in different school districts and show what they have learned here at JSU. This day helps them see how different school systems work,” said Shalakkeia Brocks, Students not graduating in May also gained useful information at the event. “I felt the fair was very informative. I especially liked the idea that so many representatives from different states were in attendance, even my hometown,” said Shadai Hailey, a junior English education major from Detroit, Mich. “As a junior, I learned many things that will help me next year when I start looking for employment. How to dress;
how contracts work and all the qualifications I need to become certified.” Some of the school districts in attendance included: El Dorado Public Schools, Holmes County School District, Jackson Public School District, South Delta School District and many more. Many students learned that many of the schools offer perks if you come to there district. If you work for a critical needs school in the state of Mississippi for at least four years or more, programs are in place to help students pay off student loan debt. According to the Education Corner website, it is projected that until 2016, job growth for teachers is projected to increase by 12 percent, or just over 479,000 new jobs. This growth is in-line with average expected job growth in other industries. During this same period, growth for teaching jobs is expected to increase quickest in Georgia, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. Growth is projected to
increase at the smallest rate in the Northwest. Teachers willing to move and licensed in multiple subjects will enjoy more job opportunities than teachers licensed in only one subject and unwilling to relocate. Candice Chambers, a senior English education major from Jackson, Miss., is looking forward to life after JSU. “I have a plethora of opportunities to teach in school districts in-state and out-ofstate. I have been contacted by principals and human resource representatives for potential teaching positions. I’m actually going to grad school full time,” said Chambers. She added, “JSU has prepared me extensively for the job market. My classes have strengthened my knowledge base in the field of education and English. From professional development seminars to the teacher recruitment fair, I have had opportunities to develop myself for the work force.”
Meet the
Candidates Robin Y. Jackson Miss JSU
Charence Higgins Miss JSU
Tatiyana Blood Miss JSU
Destiny Lawrence
Jasmine C. Jackson
Jauan Knight Justice
Raymond Gee Justice
Jordan Turner Justice
Vernon Lee
Kendall Bunch
Lauren Taylor
Tiffany
Jordan Carter Miss Senior
Ebony A. Parks Miss Senior
Tyinnia Jenkins Miss Senior
Senior Class President
Myia Young Miss JSU
Kristen Hudson Miss JSU
Markeisha Robinson
Henry Goss SGA President
Rashad Moore SGA President
Michael Gorden SGA President
Executive Vice President
Executive Secretary
Ruqayya Calmes
Bennie Walker Chief Justice
Charance Wright Chief Justice
Joyce Winston Justice
Alexis Armstrong Justice
Treyvian Durl
Brittany Morgan Miss Senior
Executive Parliamentarian
Mr. Senior
Miss JSU
Special Interest Senator
Larry Strickland
Special Interest Senator
Academic Council Senator
Executive Business Manager
Holland
Academic Council Senator
Christopher Allen
Destiny Harris Miss Junior
Kevron McMillan Mr. Junior
Raymond McCanks
Davaughn Jackson
Joseph Thomas
Jaylon Moore
Kedric Hayes
Ryan Swainer
Bre’Ann Williams
Jerrica Johnson
Devonta Thomas
Jasmine Robinson
Maya Hughes
Laura Coleman
Olujide Oluade
Th’Marves Brooks
Isaac Gaines
Jesslyn Course
Alexis Moore
Miss Sophomore
Quindarius Redmond Mr. Sophomore
De’Angelo Riddle
Darius Williams
Senior Business Manager
Mr. Junior
Junior Business Manager
Junior Senator
Senior Assistant Secretary
Junior President
Junior Secretary
Miss Sophomore
Tiara Todd
Senior Assistant Secretary
Cynthia Cox Miss Junior
Junior President
Junior Class Secretary
Junior Vice President
Junior Class Asst. Secretary
Junior Vice President
Junior Class Parliamentarian
Mr. Sophomore
Junior Business Manager
Junior Senator
Mr. Sophomore
Faith Ambrose
Claude Davis, Jr
Telandus Craft
Alyssa Drake
Shelbi Ware
Tyler Harden
Macalah Lang
Parri Swinson
Dwayne Jenkins
Joseph Henderson
Kyren Garel
Asean Davis
Sophomore Class Asst. Secretary Sophomore Class President
Sophomore Parliamentarian
Sophomore Secretary
Sophomore Class President
Sophomore Secretary
Sophomore Vice president Sophomore Vice President
Sophomore Class Senator
Sophomore Class Senator
Sophomore Business Manager
Sophomore Class Senator
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Page 8 - April 2, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
The Flash wins MPA awards at journalism conference Mark Braboy Associate Editor
The Blue & White Flash student newspaper won many accolades in the 2014-2015 Better Newspaper Contest during the 2015 O.C. McDavid Journalism Conference. The Jackson State University student newspaper brought back seven awards in six different categories. On March 26, The Flash received awards in Best News Sports Story, Best Cartoon, Best Editorials, Best Miscellaneous Advertisement, and Best Website. They competed in 20 different categories against other student newspapers from Mississippi State University (The Reflector), Delta State University (The Delta Statement), William Carey University (The Cobbler), and University of Southern Mississippi (Student Printz). Several community colleges also competed in the junior division. “I’m very proud of all my colleagues from all of the good writers to the graphic design artists. I mean, it was just wonderful to know that there are so many talented
Photo: Kierra Thomas Blue & White Flash staff members at the O.C. McDavid Journalism Conference.
students that I work with,” said Derrick Walton, a senior mass communications major and staff writer from Yazoo City, Miss. The annual conference, sponsored by the Mississippi Press Association took place at the Mississippi Craft Center in Ridgeland, Miss.
Journalists from the Clarion Ledger and The Petal News were present along with Leonard Van Slyke, an attorney from the Mississippi Center for Freedom of Information, Gene McDavid, the son of the late O.C. McDavid, and Ann Brunson of the Craftmens Guild of
Mississippi, who delivered a presentation. A panel discussion on community journalism took place where journalists Therese Apel, David Gustafson, and Josh Mlot spoke in depth about many issues in the field, including whether or not it is important to have to story first
or to have the story right and being a responsible journalist. Slyke also gave legal advice when covering stories as well as what is ethical and unethical. The annual conference is named after the late O.C. McDavid, who was the former managing editor of The Jackson Daily News. He actively pursued a second career as an artist and sculptor after retiring from journalism. The staff of the Blue & White Flash enjoyed their time at the conference and learned a great deal of extensive information about journalism. “Well being a freshman, this was my first time being at the O.C. McDavid Conference and it was a unique and memorable experience knowing that there are journalists in Mississippi that are still interested in print, because a lot of people say that print is at the bottom of the totem pole. I enjoy being around people who enjoy the beauty of print,” said William Kelly, a freshman mass communications major and photographer from Houston, Texas.
JSU goes global during Model United Nations panel discussion Orionna Brumfield MC301 Contributor/Staff
Over 200 students attended Jackson State University’s annual Model United Nations discussion panel. This is one of the many events held during the university’s annual International Week celebration that recognizes the cultural diversity at Jackson State. Priscilla Slade, special assistant to provost for JSU Global and Community Colleges was glad to see such a great turnout. “International Week is for all faculty and students, both domestic and international. Events like these help students gain more insight on what’s going on and how to respond to other health concerns,” said Slade. JSU faculty, staff, and administrators encouraged students to attend events held from March 23-27 to introduce them to other cultures and provide information on global concerns including diseases and vaccinations. Mario Azevedo, College of Liberal Arts Dean, led
the discussion of the current diseases including the Ebola virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Ebola, previously known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever, is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains. Ebola can cause disease in humans and nonhuman primates (monkeys, gorillas, and chimpanzees). The Ebola virus causes an acute, serious illness which is often fatal if untreated. “I lecture on infectious diseases because I studied etymology and diseases especially in developing countries and continents like Africa… I’m very active in trying to promote good health not only in Africa, but in the United States,” said Azevedo. Azevedo added that since the 1700s, evidence exist that vaccines have an effect on people who get them and it saves lives. “The world is shrinking; it’s getting smaller and smaller. You can fly to Africa in six to seven hours, and somebody’s contaminated there. In fact, that infection is going to be in
Photo: Deonte Williams JSU students at the Model United Nations discussion panel.
the U.S. If you go somewhere and have sexual contact with someone who has Ebola, that can also be a problem. In other words, there’s no safety,” said Azevedo Azevedo also stated that the country of Africa is actually rich, but the upper class (government, ministers, etc) control the money while allocating only 3 percent to health care. “The most severely affected countries, Guinea, Sierra Leone
and Liberia have very weak health systems, lacking human and infrastructural resources, having only recently emerged from long periods of conflict and instability.” Many JSU students in at the discussion were very interested in news about Ebola. “It [the panel discussion] actually taught me about different things that I didn’t know about Ebola and Africa. I am vaccinated, but I will start to tell others to do so also,”
said Chereigna Dixon, a junior criminal justice major from Hazlehurst, Miss. Shirley Harrison, Interim Director of JSU Global hopes her department is able to better inform students of global issues. “The more we learn and understand of the cultures, I think the more we will grow and be able to adjust to the changes that have been going on in the United States. The only way to know is to listen, learn and read,” said Harrison.
The Blue & White Flash
News
Page 9 - April 2, 2015
Lewis selected as Miss Phi Beta Sigma for state of MS Derrick Walton Practicum/Staff Writer
Photo Provided by Derrick Walton JSU Junior, Kendra Lewis (center) with Eric Cook (left) Alpha Beta Chapter of Phi Sigma advisor and Ryan Rush (right) State Director of Collegiate Affairs.
Kendra Lewis, a junior entrepreneurship major from Clinton, Miss., has selected to represent the state of Mississippi as Miss Phi Beta Sigma. Lewis, who currently holds the position of Miss Phi Beta Sigma for the Alpha Beta Chapter at Jackson State University, won the state title on March 27 at the pageant held in Meridian, Miss. She first competed in the Miss Phi Beta Sigma pageant for the Alpha Beta chapter in fall 2013 and won 2013-2014 Miss Blue. She stated that serving as Miss Blue gave her the inspiration to compete again in the Miss Phi Beta Sigma Pageant. “After winning Miss Blue, I was inspired to do the Miss Phi Beta Sigma again to rejoin the court because as Miss Blue, I honestly fell in love with the fraternity. I got a chance to get to know them first hand, as well as some of the members of the fraternity first hand, and I was just determined to do
another pageant because I am a pageant girl,” said Lewis. “I was not going to do any other pageant. I enjoyed my reign as Miss Blue, but I wasn’t satisfied. The year went by so fast and I felt like there was so much work to be done.” In fall 2014, she won the title of Miss Phi Beta Sigma. Lewis is no stranger to pageants. “I have competed in other pageants for the state of Mississippi. I haven’t done any for the country, but I did compete in the Miss Mississippi Pageant by way of the Miss America organization.” She added, “I was the first African-American to be crowned Miss Clinton in 2013, and that gave me the opportunity to try for the position of Miss Mississippi.” Kendra currently serves as the captain of the JSU track and field team as well as the president of the student advisory board in the College of Business and has made many contributions outside of campus. “Currently, I’m the president and cofounder of an organization entitled SWAC
Nation. SWAC Nation is an outsource organization not through JSU. However, it is focused on SWAC schools and of course, with me being at JSU that is the school that I pretty much focused on. She stated that the mission of SWAC Nation is to increase campus and community involvement. Lewis says that she was inspired by one of the greatest entertainment moguls of all time. “The person that inspired me the most, other than my mom, is Oprah Winfrey,” said Lewis. “I consider Oprah to be one of my intangible mentors. I look up to her and admire her most because she revolutionized the way AfricanAmerican women were viewed in the American society in entrepreneurship, philanthropy and independence.” Her future goals are to attend graduate school, become a legislator for the state of Mississippi as a democrat and to open several businesses throughout the state of Mississippi geared towards social and economic development.
Future releases mixtape in honor of fellow rapper DJ Esco Derrick Walton Practicum/Staff Writer Atlanta rap star Future surprised fans on March 20 with the release of his latest mixtape “56 Nights.” The title refers to the number of days fellow Atlanta native and frequent collaborator DJ Esco was incarcerated. According to MTV.com, DJ Esco traveled to Dubai last year to perform with Future at the 2014 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. But he didn’t make the return flight home, Esco (real name William Moore) got arrested at the airport for marijuana possession, and ended up spending 56 days in prison. He finally made it home on Jan. 13. “56 Nights” is the second mixtape released by Future this year and with this project he embraces a unique trap style like many other southern rappers in the Atlanta area. The beginning track of “56 Nights” is called “Free At Last” and it gives listeners
the atmosphere of what it was like when DJ Esco was overseas in Dubai. You can hear sound effects of an airplane flying towards the end of the track. The 808 Mafia produced the 10-track mixtape. Most of the tracks were produced by 808 Mafia member Southside, with the exception of the single, “March Madness”. “March Madness”, which was produced by Tarantino, is a track that kind of reminds you of the actual NCAA basketball tournament. The single itself was released around the start of March Madness. In the song he quotes, “We balling like the March Madness” and “I’m the one that living lavish, like I’m playing for the Mavericks”, in which it goes to show that he is living in wealth. “Diamonds from Africa is another track that serves as a reminder that Future is living wealthy. “I got them diamonds like Africa. I got the blow on a one-footed trafficker” can be heard on
the hook of this song. There are some similarities between the sound of “56 Nights” and last year’s “Monster”. Even though it was executively produced by Metro Boomin, several tracks were either produced by or collaborated with 808 Mafia. If you ever listened to “Monster”, you’ll notice that Southside used a few similar sounds and drumlines that can be heard quite a bit in “56 Nights”. Like many of Future’s mixtapes, he included skits as well as DJ Esco talking as if he was going to purchase drugs. The mixtape is concluded with a track entitled “56 Nights”. I think that this track is metaphorical compared to the name of the mixtape. Future raps about things that he has been doing for 56 nights straight such as drugs and having pleasure with women. He doesn’t refer to the incarceration of DJ Esco. Overall, I really enjoyed listening to this mixtape. I am a fan of Future and I
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was surprised by the release. It reminds me of a typical southern rap project. My favorite song of the tape is “March Madness”. It sounds a little different from most of the other tracks, but it still
has that same unique vibe to me compared to other tracks. I wish that “56 Nights” included more tracks. “56 Nights” is now available and can be downloaded on livemixtapes.com.
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Protest
Cont. from pg.1 a lot of stuff and I feel like it’s time for the students to take a stand,” said Smith. Lindsey Horton, Associate Vice President for JSU Public Safety, believes reasonable force was used in the incident. “We do have enough information to indicate that there was an incident with an individual arrested and several officers were involved. We’ve determined that based on the videos that I saw, it did not rise to the level of excessive force. There was an individual arrested for disorderly conduct and during the course of that, we determined there was a lot of abusive language that’s not conducive to the environment that you would expect on the campus of an institution that is charged with educating young people,” said Horton. Horton also explained the difference between reasonable and excessive force. “Reasonable force is defined as the minimum amount of force needed to bring a situation under control or an individual under control. As it relates to excessive force on an individual, it’s been said that the most visible element of any municipality is that of a uniformed police officer. If the officer determines that it’s necessary to either direct or order the overall population in a room or one individual to do something in the interest of safety, then that person should comply,” said Horton. Imani Nelson, a senior biology major from Detroit, Mich. was one of the protest organizers. “When we found out about the incident that took place this Sunday that just passed, somebody showed us the video of the security guard kind of harassing one of our students who is a part of the track team. When we saw the video, it sparked our interest because there are times when security, to us, has not done their jobs effectively. When they go
overboard and abuse their authority, that’s an issue,” said Nelson. Yesterday at 7:30 p.m., hundreds of students gathered at the dining hall where the incident occurred for a sit-in. At 8 p.m., when the dining hall was supposed to close, students remained seated. Organizers of the event want the university to comply with the following demands: - the fine be waived for Aponte - the removal of the charge from Aponte’s record - extended cafeteria closing times - to-go-boxes for instances when students cannot sit and eat Nelson added: “This isn’t the first time that something like this has happened, it’s just the first time that this was caught on video… If it wasn’t for our tuition, we wouldn’t have these security guards; we wouldn’t be able to pay these security guards. So the reason that we stood up is because we’re tired of them being able to get away with stuff and sweep stuff under the rug like it’s no big deal when we all are affected by it. Especially with that young man having to go to court.” During the protest, Aponte stated that he appreciated the support of his classmates. “I think what they (JSU Campus Police) need to take out of this protest is that it’s a way that y’all can do things and I feel like a lot of the security that we have working, they don’t know the law,” said Aponte. At press time, Horton was holding a question and answer session with the students who wanted to voice their concerns. He assured the students that the incident was under investigation. Sodexo, the food services provider at JSU and JSU Contractual Services were contacted for input on this story. As of 9 p.m., at Blue & White Flash print deadline, no comments were given and protesters were still in the dining hall. Visit thejsuflash.com for updates and video on this story.
Sports Commentary
Page 12 - April 2, 2015 The Blue & White Flash
Mayweather picked to defeat Paquiao in upcoming matchup
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Mark Braboy Associate Editor Ladies and gentlemen, Hell has frozen over and pigs are flying through the sky as we speak. After years of delays and drama, the biggest fight in boxing histor y will finally
take place on May 2, 2015. The undefeated WBA and WBC welter weight and light middleweight champion, Floyd Mayweather Jr. will fight the current WBO welter weight champion, Manny Paquiao. Two of the greatest boxers of all time will fight
an unprecedented war that will finally determine who is the best in the world. Even though I am a fan of both fighters, here’s my prediction. Mayweather WILL win the fight on May 2nd in a unanimous decision. However he will not be coming out as unscathed as his previous bouts. Although these two fighters are well past their prime, Mayweather being 38 and Paquiao at 36, this should be quite a spectacle. Perhaps not the same kind of spectacle we would have had five or six years ago, but that’s not important anymore. It’s a fight between two very different styles of boxing and this will be a difference maker. Make no mistake that Mayweather is much more focused than ever before. He is not bragging as much as he normally does and lately, his training has been focused on power. He was seen in an interview with Stephen A. Smith cutting wood, an old school strength training method. This will be the toughest challenge either fighter
has had in a long time. In Mayweather’s case, it is his biggest challenge since Miguel Cotto, another fighter trained under Freddie Roach. Like the Cotto fight, Mayweather will be in serious danger, perhaps more so with Paquiao, of getting hurt very badly. The two have similar hand speeds and are quick on their feet. However, Paquiao is still a more powerful fighter, despite his age, and can take punishment as well as he can deliver it. He’s more likely to take risks, unlike Mayweather, because in to him, Mayweather’s power is not a factor. Mayweather’s X-factor that has been constant is his boxing IQ. He is skilled enough to outbox his opponents. As much of a threat as Paquiao is, I seriously doubt that he can outbox and outthink Mayweather. Unless Paquiao somehow thrashes him in the later rounds. I also expect Mayweather to be slightly more aggressive than before, but it is going to be all about his defense throughout all
twelve rounds. His supreme defense, quick decision making, speed, and counter punching will make a difference. Paquiao’s legs are in question right now as well. Throughout the past few years he has been fighting leg cramps and according to reports, it has been getting worse. Even though it’s being treated, if Paquiao does not have his legs then it is over for him. There have been plenty of cases where Mayweather has easily picked apart fighters with limited mobility. I expect the fight to be a bit slow starting off but become more aggressive in the later rounds. Mayweather can win as long as he does not get caught like he has in his last few fights. If I were a gambling man, I would bet my last dollar on Mayweather winning by unanimous decision. I doubt he will win ever y round, but he will leave the MGM Grand as the undisputed best boxer in the world and perhaps the best of all time. You heard it here first.
“Who do you think will win the fight between Compiled by Mark Braboy Mayweather and Paquiao”
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Jasmine Thomas Junior Psychology Milwakee, Wis.
“I have high expectations for Mayweather, but Paquiao is about neck to neck. If I had to bet based on statistics, I would bet on Mayweather.”
Eric Barber Junior Health Education Leland, Miss.
“I think Paquiao (will win) because I feel like Paquiao has a chip on his shoulder. Mayweather has been running from him for a while. He has enough motivation to beat him.”
Frankie Pounds Senior Art Colombia, Miss.
“Paquiao is going to win because he’s trained harder than Mayweather this year and he’s going to put him in his place.”
Morris Bowman Junior History Itta Bena, Miss.
“I think Floyd Mayweather is going to win. Paquiao is old, too slow, and keeps getting knocked out.”
Gabriella Mason Junior Psychology Memphis, Tenn.
“I been watching boxing for a while so I feel that Mayweather is going to win. The odds are in his favor, but I wouldn’t put it past Paquiao to win.”