Vol. 76 / No. 15
January 21, 2016
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University
Photo: Charles A. Smith Keynote speakers, student leaders, and faculty and staff singing “We Shall Overcome” at the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium on the main campus of JSU, celebrating King’s legacy.
Remembering the King: Where do we go from here? 48th Annual Martin Luther King Jr, Birthday Convocation held
Special to the Flash “Dr. King is alive and talking to you about the dynamic reality of living history today,” said Juan Williams, keynote speaker at the 48th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Convocation celebration at Jackson State University. Williams, author and politcal analyst, spoke to a packed audience on Jan. 15 at the event sponsored by the Margaret Walker Center at JSU. Williams added, “A living history and the idea of a living Dr. King at age 87 is so real because he is helping to shape, influence, inspire us as we deal with the ongoing history of race in America… You have to understand that as these atrocities are occurring there is a black man in the White House. You also have a black attorney general.”
INSIDE
Students, faculty, staff and JSU community partners gathered in the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium to listen to the speech of Williams, a reporter for National Public Radio and the Washington Post. Williams is also a political analyst for Fox News. With an extensive and impressive resume of accomplishments, Williams has interviewed many power players and elected officials including: President Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H. W. Bush and Ronald Reagan. He is most noted for his acclaimed novel, “Eyes on the Prize”. Williams would later receive the 2016 For My People Award at the MLK convocation luncheon held later that day. Other recipients of the award included: the Ida B. WellsBarnett Museum in Holly
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Springs, Miss., the Emmett Till Interpretive Center in Sumner, Miss. and the Beta Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Williams used many events and occurrences in “Eyes on the Prize” as examples when speaking at the convocation. He encouraged students to be great and thoughtful in their actions. He also advised each student to be wise. “People will look to you for leadership and guidance the same way they looked to Dr. King,” said Williams. “You are alive. You’ve got to hold on and thank God for this moment in history and shape it for what you want it to be.” Many students were pleased with this year’s convocation speaker selection. “I’m really glad that we invited Juan Williams because he’s written a lot of books and 2015 Year in Review....... 5
started a lot of publications to actually spark conversations that we need to have in America. There is a lot of racial controversy out there that a lot of people don’t know about or they’re scared to know the truth about,” said Ruquaya Calmes, a junior marketing major from Little Rock, Ark. Calmes added: “I like the fact that I saw a lot of students here and they actually sat through the program just to hear what was said. The ending, especially what the last speaker said about voting, I thought that needed to be said because how can you say black lives matter but you don’t go to the voting polls to vote.” The message behind Williams’ speech helped some students understand more about society. “There’s still more change to come. I loved the program. I enjoyed it, I really did. I got
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the message. I know that there’s more that we need to change in this world and hopefully one of these students can do it,” said Cynthia Gooden, a sophomore business administration major from Jackson, Miss. Williams ended his address by urging the young audience to shape history the way they want it to be, proclaiming to the audience, “God is with you; keep on marching on.” Former Jackson State professor, Margaret Walker Alexander, began the MLK Birthday Convocation at Jackson State to honor Dr. King just nine months after his assassination in 1968, making it one of the earliest celebrations of the civil rights leader’s birthday in the nation. MC 301-02 Students Ashli Coggins, Alexandria Galtney, Maya Parker and William Kelly contributed to this story.
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The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
Are we slaves to the Miss. Voter ID Laws? “Do you think marijuana should be legalized in Mississippi?”
COMMENTARY
Compiled by Dejha Carlisle, Derrick Walton and William Kelly January 29, 2015
Chanel Wilkerson Criminal Justice Junior Detroit, Mich.
“I don’t feel like marijuana should be legalized at all. It’s not coinciding with society.”
Michael Wilson Speech Communications Senior Vicksburg, Miss.
“I feel that it’s not a negative drug. It is only negative perceived by the manipulated society.”
Yang Li Engineering Graduate Student Southeast, China
“I’m not familiar with marijuana. I never heard about it. ”
Guy King Staff Writer March 5, 2015 “Who was the 13th President that held an office? You don’t know? Application to vote denied!” That was told to so many
of our grandparents and great grandparents when all they wanted to do was be able to register to vote. With the new voter identification laws that are being set in place, we seem to be going back to that place in time. Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 was declared unconstitutional in 2013 and now 30 states have voter ID laws, including Mississippi. According to an article published on June 23, 2014 by CBS News, 300 voters out of 400,000 failed to present an ID, and were turned around and did not return. A June 3, 2014 Clarion Ledger article stated that
only one voter was reported as not having an ID and turned around from being able to cast a ballot in the election. This is quite a jump from 1 to 300 in less than a 30 day period right? The real question is why Mississippi would implement a law with knowledge that those who are of poor economic status or elderly may not be able to present identification. I feel that Mississippi is slowly going back to its past, and not allowing the blacks to vote! However, now blacks are not the only demographic that will be affected. The elderly, the young, the poor and...
Send your child to a Historically Black College COMMENTARY Derrick Jones Computer Engineering Senior Jackson, Miss.
“I feel like it should be legalized if it is profitable for the state.”
Kyle Witt Computer Engineering Senior Pickens, Miss.
“I feel that a lot of money is wasted in attempting to keep people incarcerated for marijuana related offenses which are non violent offenses.”
Iman Beckham Pre-Veterinarian Junior Atlanta, Ga.
“I feel like it should because it helps you actually think. Some people are more calm while smoking.”
“Why do you think people choose to stay silent when witnessing domestic violence incidents?” Compiled by Jennifer Wiles November 5, 2015
Areon Smith Sophomore Chemistry Tulsa, Okla.
“A lot of times when you’re on the outside looking in, you kind of feel like it’s not your business or place to speak up about it. Even though its wrong.”
Ansel Heidelberg Senior Elementary Education Jackson, Miss. “The reason why women stay silent is because they don’t want other people in their business.”
Nigel Dixon-McCullough Senior Speech Communication Canton, Miss. “We grow up in a generation that frowns upon acting on anything. That means acting on racially motivated abuse, social abuse, and especially domestic violence.”
Breann Williams Junior Graphic Design Tulsa, Okla.
“I think people choose to stay silent because they don’t want to be in anyone’s business.”
Mark Braboy Associate Editor April 16, 2015 As a current student at an HBCU, I often wonder if I will encourage my children to follow in my footsteps and attend an HBCU. The relevance of HBCUs
Chanda Titus Junior Business Admin. Grambling, Miss.
“People choose to stay silent because they get embarrassed and they don’t want people in their business.”
gone and done what you have done. HBCUs like THEE Jackson State University provide a nurturing academic atmosphere tempered with cultural understanding for many students like myself, a young African-American man from an urban city blighted by many of the social problems that plague America. But it’s not just the inner city youth like myself that have benefited from HBCUs. I meet people from all walks of life, state and countries at JSU. Every HBCU is different and comes along with different of set of experiences depending on where the location is as well as the background of the...
Suffering silently no longer an option for victims COMMENTARY
“People usually remain silent out of fear. Fear of being hurt or making a situation even more worse than what it is.”
Deondre Powell Junior Criminal Flint, Mich.
has been an ongoing debate since historically black colleges were founded. Honestly, despite what some critics say and even though the challenges historically black institutions still face, they are as relevant today as they ever were. Historically Black Colleges and Universities are cornerstones in this country for African-Americans, especially those who come from underprivileged backgrounds. While there are many great predominately white institutions (PWIs), historically black institutions address the needs of minority students with an understanding that can only come from those who have been where you have been, gone where you
Deirdra Harris Glover MC Contributor/Staff Writer November 5, 2015 Society makes it easy for us to look away from violence, even when it’s happening
under our noses. From an early age, we’re taught not to stare, not to make a fuss, to mind our own business. We want to believe the best of the people we encounter in our day to day lives. We want our friends and relatives to be happy, so we believe them when they say they’re “fine.” The next time you’re in a room full of your friends, remember these numbers. One in 7 men, and 1 in 4 women over 18-years-old have experienced domestic or intimate partner violence. Every 9 seconds, an American woman is subject to assault or battery. It’s an easy thing to say,
“The first time they hit me, I’m out the door.” It’s an automatic and rational reaction to the idea of violence, but it does not encompass all the factors that can influence a situation: children, pets, finances, vows, shame, pride, fear and love. It doesn’t take into account the gradual whittling away of self-worth that usually precedes a violent act. The hard-and-fast rule we’re taught doesn’t account for an abuser’s remorse, apologies or promises. It also doesn’t account for how often survivors’ admissions of violence are met with skepticism...
The views expressed in these commentaries are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
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Three-year enrollment growth at JSU tops universities JSU blossoms again as Apple statewide; JSU now fourth-largest HBCU nationwide Distinguished School for 2015-2017 September 18, 2015 University Communications
December 18, 2015 University Communications
Enrollment has grown by 10.8 percent at Jackson State University over the past three years, the largest increase of any state-assisted college or university, according to figures released by the Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL). With an enrollment of 9,802 students, JSU is now the fourth-largest HBCU in the country. When Dr. Carolyn W. Meyers came to Jackson State University as president in 2010 the school was ranked eighth-largest among HBCUs nationally. “Our freshman class is at an all-time high of 1,252 students. This represents a 4.7 percent increase over last year’s number of 1,196. We are really excited to report that the number of nonresident first-time freshmen...
Jackson State has earned its second consecutive designation as an Apple Distinguished School, which is awarded biennially. The honor praises the institution for incorporating technology into its curriculum. “We are delighted to be recognized again as an Apple Distinguished School for 20152017. Once again, JSU is deemed a national exemplar for innovation,
Photos by William H. Kelly III
Ted Williams uses ‘Golden Voice’ to inspire others
Photos by William H. Kelly III Ted Williams with JSU students who earned the most community service hours.
April 9, 2015 Dwayne Joseph Jr. Staff Writer “The purpose of standing on that highway corner was to acquire a relationship with God,” said the man who went from being
leadership and education excellence,” said Dr. Robert Blaine, dean of Undergraduate Studies and CyberLearning at JSU. Digital enhancements have paved the way for the university to transform the institution’s learning environment with innovative teaching methods, thus increasing students’ creativity. Blaine said, “When we received our first recognition in 2013, we were designing INNOVATE and CREATE and planning our curricular redesigns. Now, we have completed both and are...
homeless for 19 years to a job as an announcer for Kraft Mac & Cheese. Ted “Golden Voice” Williams visited Jackson State University and was the guest speaker on April 2, 2015 at the Community In
Action (CIA) Reception hosted by the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning held at the Mississippi e-Center. “The Harden Center for Service wanted a platform where we could recognize students and student organizations for all of the service they have done, and also encourage them to continue to serve,” said Kimberly Harris, Community Service/ServiceLearning Resource Specialist/NSE Coordinator. She added: “Who better to help convey this idea than Mr. Ted “Golden Voice” Williams whom has been on both the receiving end as well as the giving end of service.” Williams’, who co-authored the book, “Faith, Hard work, and Humility Brought Me from the Streets to Salvation,” was homeless in 2011 when a videographer from the Columbus Dispatch...
Photo: Dominique McCraney
Jackson State tackles housing issues September 10, 2015 William H. Kelly III Associate Editor As college enrollments continue to increase, Jackson State University, like many other colleges and universities across the nation, are faced with challenges in providing housing to students in need. As this fall semester began, much attention was given to this issue in the local media in Jackson as some JSU students faced housing challenges. JSU is projected to have 10,000 students, its highest enrollment numbers in the history of the university, which university officials say contributed to the need for
housing. James C. Renick, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at JSU, told The Blue & White Flash several reasons why the housing situation occurred. “You have this confluence of factors where we’re housing more students, acquired a 500 plus bed complex, and then we got another off-campus facility. We have to fix up the property and get all of that ready for the fall in addition to getting the rest of the residence halls ready. We just kind of fell behind schedule and when you do that it has a domino effect on everything,” said Renick. He added that students participating in summer...
Surprise ending announced for 2015 Miss JSU Pageant
Image created by William Kelly
April 2, 2015 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...
Page 5 - January 21, 2016
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JSU students hold sit-in protest in Heritage Dining Hall April 2, 2015 Guy King and William Kelly III Staff Writers
Photos by William H. Kelly III Students raise hands during sit-in protest to indicate that they have had issues with members of campus police.
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. “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 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,”...
Voting rights 50 years after Selma march JSU students attend Bloody Sunday commemoration March 5, 2015 Mark Braboy Associate Editor/MC301 Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) of 1965 was declared unconstitutional in 2013 by the United States Supreme Court in a 5-4 vote. Some people believe that this decision has compromised the voting rights of citizens of color, the lower class and the elderly in the United States. According to the U.S. Constitution, Section 4 is the key component to the VRA which is a formula that is based on voting patterns to identify areas where there are high amounts of voting discrimination due to race. This guarantees citizens of all ethnicities and education levels
the right to vote and register to vote without discrimination. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, 30 states now have a voter ID laws. Some of these include: Indiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Texas, Kansas, Florida, Michigan, and Louisiana. The voter ID law was made effective in Mississippi on June 3, 2014 when 62 percent of Mississippi voters approved the citizen-initiated constitutional amendment in a vote on Nov. JSU students at Selma 50. 8, 2011. The new law says people March 5, 2015 must show one of 10 specific Jeremy Anderson types of photo ID to vote. MC301 Contributor/Staff Some of these include: driver’s Section 4 of the Voting Rights license; an ID issued by any Act (VRA) of 1965 was declared branch of Mississippi state unconstitutional in 2013 by the government; a U.S. passport ...
Provided by: Jeremy Anderson
United States Supreme Court in a 5-4 vote. Some people believe that this decision has compromised the voting rights of citizens of color, the lower class and the elderly in the United States.
According to the U.S. Constitution, Section 4 is the key component to the VRA which is a formula that is based on voting patterns to identify areas where there are high amounts of voting discrimination due to race. This guarantees citizens of all ethnicities and education levels the right to vote and register to vote without discrimination. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, 30 states now have a voter ID laws. Some of these include: Indiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Texas, Kansas, Florida, Michigan, and Louisiana. The voter ID law was made effective in Mississippi on June 3, 2014 when 62 percent of Mississippi voters approved...
JSU goes global: Passport to the World documentary details students’ experiences October 1, 2015 Jhade’ Norris MC Contributor/Staff Jackson State University is on a mission to produce technologically advanced, diverse, ethical global leaders who think critically, address societal problems and compete effectively. On Sept. 29 in the JSU Student Center Theater, an audience of students, faculty and administrators screened a 45-minute documentary that details how this mission is being put into action. The experiences of 73 students and faculty who traveled to six
different countries this summer to study abroad were featured in the exciting documentary. The four-week faculty-led excursions took students to Shanghai, China; Madrid, Spain; Paris; Salvador da Bahia, Brazil; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and Rio de Janeiro. “JSU Passport to the World was designed to provide an academic experience that immerses students in cultural experiences that are discipline specific and thought provoking,” said Priscilla Slade, Special Assistant to the Provost for International Studies and Community Colleges.
The key objective of the travel abroad experience, as mentioned in the documentary, is to create global leaders and for students to make cultural connections within the country they are studying in. The JSU Passport to the World program conquers the three major obstacles that prevent students from studying abroad; cost, curriculum and culture. In the documentary, students went into detail about the entire traveling abroad process from beginning to end. Some of the students stated that upon their arrival on foreign soil, they did not know what to expect. Some students relayed that even...
Photo: Darek Ashley Dr. Priscilla Slade, JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers and Paul Scott attend the Passport to the World documentary screening.
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Jackson State students react to terrorism in Paris November 19, 2015 Kendra Brown MC Contributor/Staff Writer People all over the world are still reeling from the news of the bombings in Paris, which occurred on Nov. 13. So far, 129 people are confirmed killed and 350 were wounded in the terrorist attacks that have victims from at least 19 nations. The al Qaeda faction, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria or ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attacks. As evidenced by the many countries affected by these events, this tragedy has touched
people in all parts of the world, including students at Jackson State University. “I was just in Paris almost two summers ago and immediately began to think about how I could have been a part of those numbers,” said Tyvarras Lindsey, a sophomore mass communication major from Kosciusko, Miss. “I am truly blessed to have not been there, and I am praying for the ones who were. I also hope and pray that this traumatic event will open the eyes of our government to amplify security here in
America.” Jarielle Gibson, a freshman theatre major from Natchez, Miss. was also shocked to hear news of the terrorist attacks. “I was really hurt and it honestly took me by surprise. I was backstage at the “Wine in the Wilderness” production when one of my cast members informed me about the attacks. I then proceeded to inform my snapchat followers about the disaster and asked for their prayers,” said Gibson. Jordan Darensbourg expressed frustration that...
Photo: Google
Pope Francis makes historic visit to USA Incumbent Governor Phil Bryant wins election October 1, 2015 Jordan Darensbourg MC Contributor/Staff Writer Pope Francis visited the United States and addressed many of the issues facing countries worldwide. During his visit, the Holy Father paid a visit to Washington, D.C., where he would visit the White House and President Barack Obama. He then celebrated mass at the
National Catholic Cathedral before addressing Congress. Something never done by a Pope before. Pope Francis conveyed his message of peace and love as well as embracing diversity. According to the Associated Press, some words that have been described are humble, understanding, genuine & empathetic. During his homily during Sunday mass, Fr. Ricardo...
Photo: Crystal Killingsworth
November 4, 2015 Jhade’ Norris MC Contributor/Staff Writer
Photo: Google
Incumbent Governor Phil Bryant was victorious in the 2015 Mississippi Gubernatorial election. The election, which took place on Tuesday Nov. 3, 2015, included incumbent Bryant (R), Robert Gray (D), and Shawn O’Hara of the Reform Party.
The race concluded with Gov. Bryant leading the polls at 66.6 percent, Robert Gray at 32 percent and Shawn O’Hara with 1.4 percent of the votes. Gov. Bryant, a Moorehead, Miss. native, is the third Mississippi governor to win back-to-back four-year terms. “The election was almost predictable for me. Most people who I have talked to about the race agreed that Phil Bryant would be taking the position
for Mississippi state governor for a second term,” said Shayla Perkins, a biology/pre-nursing major from Jackson, Miss. The primary elections were conducted on Aug. 4 and Mississippi is one of 21 states with a mixed primary system. Voters did not have to register with a party, but they were expected to support the party nominations if they voted in the primary election. In the race, Bryant spent $2.7 million and defeated Gray, a truck driver who spent just over $3,000, and O’Hara, who spent $300 according to published reports. Prior to becoming governor, Bryant earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Hinds Community College, a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a master’s in political science from Mississippi College. While in office, Gov. Bryant stated his focus has been on...
C-SPAN tour bus promotes political education November 5, 2015 Jeremy Anderson Associate Editor On Tuesday, Nov. 3, the Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network, commonly known as C-SPAN, stopped on the campus of Jackson State University in the award-winning C-SPAN Bus. The bus has been touring states in the South in cities such as Beaumont, Texas, Baton Rouge, La., and Montgomery, Ala., before Jackson State became a resting stop. While on campus, students were able to walk onto to the bus and engage with technological learning tools that offered
various information about the 2016 presidential election, and also about C-SPAN in general. In a promotion for the news channel and in an effort to engage the with community, the C-SPAN Bus Program stops at high schools, universities, political gatherings, book fairs and other venues to give students and faculty the opportunity to interactively engage in learning about public affairs, congressional debates, history, and non-fiction books related to the network. The bus offered technological methods to connect with C-SPAN via social media, and even quizzes to test political and
historical knowledge. “I think the bus was very informative. There were interactive screens that were preloaded with a lot of information. There was historic information, as well as some up-to-date information regarding the 2016 election,” said Kesicia Dickinson, a junior criminal justice major from Walnut Grove, Miss. Dickinson also said, “It’s a good way to pull peoples’ attention toward the election. In this generation, you have to meet the people where they are, and I think the bus is a great effort in doing so.”...
Photo: William H. Kelly III JSU Faculty and Staff along with Miss JSU Charence Higgins and other student volunteers aboard the C- SPAN tour bus.
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New School of Journalism and Media Studies excites future journalists and communicators November 12, 2015 Special to the Flash
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Jackson State University is the first historically black college or university in the state of Mississippi to open a School of Journalism and Media Studies. JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers made the official announcement Nov. 12 at the Mississippi e-Center@ JSU where the School is located. Only two other universities in Mississippi, The University of Mississippi and the University of Southern Mississippi, have a School of Journalism or Mass Communication. Jackson State becomes the 7th out of 106 HB CUs in
the nation (three private and three public universities) to house schools of journalism, media or communication. Communication students are excited about the announcement and what it will mean to their career aspirations. Jhade’ Norris, a junior mass communication major from Chicago, Ill., said: “I feel that the new School of journalism and Media Studies will benefit students because it will bring new experiences, curriculum, and professors. I am eager as a student to see what the future holds for the department.” Orionna Brumfield, a senior from Brookhaven ...
Campus responders, medical professionals engage in mass casualty exercise at Jackson State University October 15, 2015 Deirdra Harris Glover MC Contributor/Staff Writer As many students prepared for midterms, campus police and emergency management officers prepared for the worst. Jackson State University hosted a mass casualty drill in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center parking lot on Oct. 8, spearheaded by Russell Bennett, interim associate dean of the JSU School of Public Health. The drill, staged by the The Mississippi Center for Emergency Services at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, depicted the
bombing of a concert or social event, similar to the bombing of Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park in 1996. Carl Mangum, associate professor of nursing at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, directed the drill portion of the training. He stressed the importance of training local emergencyrelated professionals to work together in times of disaster or other dangers. “With all the things going on in the country, we don’t need to wait on the government to come save us. We must be able to take matters into our own hands until help arrives.” Trainees learned to assess
an unknown scene, prioritize patients, and other onsite protocols. Participants included law enforcement, emergency medical responders, hospital nursing staffers and emergency management professionals. The exercise even included roleplaying medical staff who were in shock or otherwise impaired at the scene, so professionals could learn to care for their own. The mass casualty drill scenario is a part of the core curriculum of the Advanced Disaster Life Support training course provided by the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Willie Gray, Jr. was a firefighter for 25 years before he accepted the emergency...
Photos by William H. Kelly III
Zagster bike sharing program promotes fitness October 8, 2015 Gabrielle Brawner MC Contributor/Staff Writer
Photos by William H. Kelly III
The Zagster bike sharing program is promoting health, fitness and a fun way to commute around campus for Jackson State University students. The program, which is a part of the “1 Fit JSU” initiative, made its debut at Jackson State in September. The primary purpose of the
Zagster program, according to Mark Dickerson, JSU Recreation Complex Assistant Director, is to promote a fun way to travel and exercise. “We received a grant originally from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation of Mississippi and originally in that grant there was a piece of it that was for a bike share program,” said Dickerson. He added: “So we looked at it and we tried to do it inhouse first and then we looked
at other national programs such as Zagster and said this is a great way to facilitate fitness activities while also providing students with transportation from one side of the campus to the other.” There are currently 12 bikes available for use in the program. Students can find the bikes at Zagster check-in/check-out stations located in front of the Student Center, JSU Recreation Complex, and the...
Page 8 - January 21, 2016
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Top 10 memberable moments on the epic show Empire Marine Band wows JSU audience Jackson State University are no exception and are tuning in every Wednesday to see what the Lyon family has in store. Here are the top ten OMG moments on “Empire”, according to JSU students we interviewed. 1. Take These Cookies Who can forget Cookie’s plea to Malcolm, the head of Empire security, to “take these cookies” after he saves her from a would be purse snatcher.
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March 19, 2015 Ashton Nash and Dwayne Joseph Jr. Staff Writers “Take these Cookies!” Many fans remember this line from Taraji P. Henson’s character, Cookie Lyon and many more from the hit new series, “Empire”. The series, created by Lee
Daniels, has had the audience stoked, breathless, and on the edge of their seats waiting to see what is going to happen next. “Empire” has pulled in viewers by the millions. According Nielsen ratings, 11.07 million viewers in the 18-49 age group, have been captivated by the hit show. Students on the campus of
2. Anika betrays Lucious Anika pays Lucious back for his infidelity by going to Lucious rival, Billy Baretti and becomes the A&R executive for Baretti’s company. Baretti continues his efforts to ruin Lucious IPO. 3. Cookie and Portia evict Boo-boo Kitty After Cookie and her assistant find out that Anika is in cohoots with Lucious’ arch enemy Baretti, they arrive to...
October 1, 2015 Rashundra Powell Staff Writer Crowds wrapped around the Rose E. McCoy on Sept. 29 to witness the President’s Own United States Marine band in all of its glory and splendor. The band began with a performance of the national anthem, which immediately caught the attention of the entire room. The band went on to do eight numbers,which included lessons in history as the band’s concert moderator, Master Sgt.
Minorities finally represented with Apple iPhone emojis
April 23, 2015 Dwayne Joseph Jr. Staff Writer “We finally have emojis that look like us and it’s hilarious,” said Sha’Kema Harley, a sophomore social work major from Birmingham, Ala. Black Emojis, something
that many students on the campus of Jackson State have been waiting for, became a reality with the most recent Apple iPhone update. The new update included emojis that came in a diverse range of ethnicities and alternative family and
relationship structures. Apple has been using emoji technology since 1999. Many students were excited about the new emoji selections. “It is more diverse and they have different country’s flags making using emojis much more comfortable to use,” said Haston Buckley, a freshman business management major from Dallas, Texas. Kymario Broady, a freshman environmental science major from Memphis, Tenn. said, “I enjoy the options of changing the race of some of the emojis which makes it much more diverse. The Apple ios 8.3 update seems to meet the needs of an abundant amount of people from different races to different sexual preferences...
Kevin Bennear gave composers, descriptions and a story of each song played. Jackson State University’s Department of Music sponsored the performance and welcomed the diversity of attendees wowed by the precision and depth of talent of the band. “Music embodies history and culture that brings everyone of all colors, shapes, and ages together,” said David Akombo, chair of the Department of Music. Lt. Col. Jason K. Fettig directed the band’s stunning performance with the help...
Photos by William H. Kelly III
I’m tweeting and I can’t get up November 12, 2015 Tiffanie Herron MC Contributor
“I thought I was going to die,” said Christopher Smiley. Smiley, a senior business administration major from Crystal Springs, Miss. saw his life flash before his eyes as the blinding headlights of an 18-wheeler truck drew closer towards him in the oncoming traffic lane. The semi blew its horn loudly and he immediately swerved his car over across the median and pulled over to the other side of the road. He took a deep breath and gathered himself. His heart was still pounding away madly from fright.
“I was scared as hell,” he said. “When I looked up, I was dead in the opposite lane of the truck. I wasn’t in my lane any more. I tried to swerve over but it was raining and I couldn’t see. I was too close coming up to him and I was going too fast. In my heart, I felt like I was going to die,” What was the cause of Smiley’s near death accident? Was it probably the sleekness of the slippery rain drenched highway? Or perhaps it was the rugged tires of his 2001 Toyota Camry? Neither, it was his Android smartphone. While he was driving down Highway 42 on his way to visit a friend, Smiley was also texting away on his phone...
Ashley Madison hack affects local Mississippi resident September 17, 2015 Breanna Stewart MC Contributor The affects of the Ashley Madison data hack continues to unfold globally, and for one local Mississippi resident, litigation was the only next step to take. According to The ClarionLedger, an anonymous Madison citizen, only identified in the suit as “John Doe”, has filed the first legal documents, seeking compensation, from online
dating and social networking service, Ashley Madison, after an August 2015 data breach saw some 37 million names of users, along with e-mail addresses, leaked onto the Internet. The Canadian-based site, which touts, “Life is short. Have an affair”, specializes in creating relationships for individuals who are either married or are in a long-term and/or committed relationship. Represented by Allison Fry
of Eaves Law Firm in Jackson, the suit alleges that Ashley Madison did not take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect users. As a result, Doe, who created an account with the site in 2010, but maintains he closed the account some three years later, preferring to rebuild his marriage instead, is reportedly now in jeopardy of losing his job; the man’s wife has also supposedly left him, as well, after his personal information...
Page 9 - January 21, 2016
For full story, visit www.thejsuflash.edu
Burger King Halloween burger a trick or treat October 15, 2015 Dwayne Joseph Jr. Staff Writer
To bring recognition to Halloween, Burger King has release one of its newest creation. The Black Whopper popped up in a Japanese location years ago and after being surfed around the internet for a number of years, it became available to the United States on Monday, Sept 28. Burger King has invented some pretty tasty items for their menu, but this Halloween Burger was not the tastiest of them all. This burger was wrapped so nicely like it always is. The crew served it with a smile and a “Thank you. Have a good day!” Eagerly unwrapping the
burger from the paper, the realization was that this was the highest point of my day. Speechless at the whooper bun with sesame seeds on it in an unfamiliar color, I asked myself was I making a mistake. Of course my roaring stomach disagreed and the enticing smell of A1 steak sauce eased up my nose. Taking the top bun off, revealed was its condiments which gave more reason for me to dig deep in my soul and pull out my inner beast to devour this succulent meal. Pulling the burger towards my mouth to eat, all I could smell was A1 sauce that encouraged me to keep going until I took a huge Andrea the Giant bite. Why did I do that? This bun is so-called baked in steak sauce so if you are a
person that enjoys steak like I do, then prepare to be disappointed. This burger is good, don’t get me wrong, but I speculate that the Halloween Burger is infused with food coloring. Food coloring turn whatever it touches that particular color. If you have red food coloring and you pour some in a bottle of water, the water will turn red. To make this a little less disturbing, there is an old saying that says “what goes in must come out.” To keep it short, after the burger is digested, it turns the color of the water in the toilet green. So if this has happened to you, do not be alarmed it is just the food coloring from the buns of the burger. Social media buzzed with tweets from E-newsdigest saying “@BurgerKing The tweets and...
Top 5 R&B albums of the year 2015 Jackson State students weigh in on hairstyle choices October 1, 2015 Jhade’ Norris MC Contributor/Staff R&B and soul singers have once again proven that in 2015, R&B still reigns supreme. With neo-soul artists and a lot of hip-hop flavor, 2015 has been a great year for R&B artists and here is a list of what I think are the Top 5 R&B albums thus far…because fans there is more to come. Singer Ciara released her album, “Jackie” this year after the birth of her first child and break-up with rapper Future. Many Ciara fans believe that motherhood has brought out the best in Ciara with this innovative and uplifting album. Ciara does not go too far
out of her range with the album but keeps listeners interested especially with the lead single “I Bet”, which is rumored to be about her ex-boyfriend. Jazmine Sullivan, whose voice always reminds me of the soul singing greats of the past, also sings about heartbreak and touches on social issues in her album “Reality Show” released in January of 2015. This album serves as somewhat of a comeback for Sullivan after her semiretirement from music for five years. “Reality Show” serves as a truthful depiction of women in today’s society and Sullivan’s personal life. According to Soultracks.com, the album is an exciting project from an artist who re-discovered her own excitement in both music...
November 12, 2015 Kendra Brown MC Contributor “Long hair, she don’t care” was one of the famous lines from Waka Flocka Flame’s smash
rap hit “No hands”. After hearing these lyrics, ladies proudly began taking hair to the next level. Whether it was being relaxed and healthy, making that transition to natural,
or keeping those bundles on deck, “long hair don’t care” shines a light on those luscious locks. But is it worth it? Let’s be real here. Hair is a really big deal in the AfricanAmerican community. A countless number of hours have been spent in the salon and large amounts of dollars have been spent. When it comes to the amount of money put in hair and the number of hours it takes to get it done, how much is too much? “Honestly, I am willing to wait as long as it takes to get done whatever I went in to get done. Whether it is braids or a sew-in, I know it is going to take time going in, so I’ll wait,” said...
Vi o l a D a v i s r e s t s h e r c a s e a t t h e 2 0 1 5 E m m y s September 24, 2015 Breyionna Flowers MC Contributor As Hollywood stars and celebrities strutted down the red carpet and fans took their places on the couch in front of their televisions, many were unaware of just how groundbreaking the 2015 Emmy Awards would be. On Sept. 20, 2015, history was made when Viola Davis became the first AfricanAmerican actress to win a primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role as a professor of law in “How to Get Away with Murder.” The Emmy Awards, like
other artistic award shows, have always been a battle for African-Americans, according to the acceptance speeches of many African-American actresses throughout the years. Prior to Davis’s win, only five other actresses have been nominated for the award since 1982. One of them, Debbie Allen, had been nominated four consecutive times for her role in “Fame”, and still never won. Only five other AfricanAmerican actresses were nominated that night: Taraji P. Henson for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in “Empire”; Regina King for Outstanding Supporting
Actress in a Limited Series in “American Crime”; Mo’Nique for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie in “Bessie”; Niecy Nash for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in “Getting On”; and Uzo Aduba for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series in “Orange is the New Black”. Out of these, King and Adubda walked away with the prize. In her acceptance speech, Davis addressed that battle, quoting Harriet Tubman: “In my mind, I see a line. And over that line I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful, white women with...
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Page 11 - January 21, 2016
For full story, visit www.thejsuflash.edu
Brown sheds interim title to become JSU’s new athletic director December 10, 2015 University Communications
Photo by: Charles A. Smith Before his interim role, Wheeler Brown previously served as JSU’s associate athletic director for compliance.
Wheeler Brown, who has served as Jackson State’s interim Director of Athletics since the first of October, has been named the university’s full-time Director of Athletics. “I am blessed and grateful to be chosen for this position at such a historic institution as Jackson State University,” said Brown. “I thank the search committee, as well as Dr. (Carolyn W.) Meyers for this opportunity to lead the Division of Athletics.” Brown has more than two decades of athletics administration experience. Before coming to JSU, Brown served as the Associate Director of Athletics at Coppin State University, 2013-2015. He
also served as Director of Athletics at his alma mater North Carolina A&T State University, 2007-2010, where under his leadership the Lady Aggies basketball team won the MEAC championship in 2009, as well as made an appearance at the NCAA Tournament. The Lady Aggies also posted wins over Wake Forest and UNC-Charlotte during the 2010 WNIT Tournament. Before Brown being named interim Director of Athletics at JSU, he served as the university’s Associate Athletic Director for Compliance.
‘Right person for the position’ “Our search committee did a tremendous job of selecting the right person for this position,” JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers said. “Wheeler Brown embraces the
tradition of excellence at Jackson State, shares our values and has the ability to navigate the changing landscape of intercollegiate athletics.” Brown accepted his first collegiate athletics administration position in 1996, when he was named Assistant Athletics Director and assistant men’s basketball coach at Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia. Two years later, he was promoted to men’s head basketball coach. In 2001, Brown was named an Associate Athletics Director at Bowie State University. In 2002, he returned to the N.C. A&T Athletics Department. While at N.C. A&T, Brown was one of 12 people, from an applicant pool of more than 300, to be accepted into the NCAA Fellows Program in 2008. The program (currently called...
Baseball team aims for SWAC Championship Jackson State Wins SWAC Women’s Volleyball January 29, 2015 Jenna Siddiqui MC301 Contributor After winning back-to-back championships, the Jackson State University baseball team is preparing for this year’s season and hopes to bring home the SWAC Championship for the third year in a row. The team had a 19-5 record during their journey to the 2013 SWAC Championship. Their road to victory was a lot harder in 2014 with a record of 9-15. On the way to the SWAC tournament, the bus caught on fire, destroying all the equipment and delaying their journey. However, this tragic accident did not faze the players, who seemed to be more motivated. Overcoming adversity, a slow season and every flaming obstacle
that crossed their paths, they left the tournament not only as champions, but back-to-back champions. Jovany Felipe, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Miami, Fla., is a catcher for JSU says the team is setting their sights a little higher this year. “I feel like there is a lot to prove to show that we can consistently be top contenders in not only the SWAC, but in NCAA play in general,” said Felipe. The team has been running, weight-lifting and conditioning since January and held their first on the field practice on Jan. 23. “Based on what has been shown this off-season and pre-season, we can definitely swing the bat. I believe that our pitching needs to improve a little bit so we do not have to rely on winning ball games on plenty of runs all the time,” said Felipe...
tourney ; Washington named Coach of the Year
Provided by: University Communications
JSU Lady Volleyball Tigers celebrate tournament win.
November 23, 2015 University Communications Jackson State won the 2015 SWAC Women’s Volleyball Tournament Championship with a 3-2 (25-14, 1725, 25-23, 25-13) win over defending
champion Alabama State (Montgomery) at the Clifford Seymour Gymnasium in Baton Rouge on Sunday. JSU’s Rose Washington was named Coach of the Year and Mikalya Rolle
was named the tourney’s Most Valuable Player. It is the third title in five years for the Tigers (15-21), and the first since 2012. In a battle of the top two seeds in the SWAC Eastern Division, it was the top-seeded Tigers that roared out of the gate with a 13-3 start to the match. Alabama State (21-15) never mounted a consistent offensive response – the Hornets committed nine errors as opposed to seven kills in the period – as the Tigers cruised to an opening-set triumph. The roles switched in set two, as the Hornets opened things up on a 9-3 scoring run. Despite spurts of offense from Jackson State, 11 errors in the set derailed any attempt at a sustained...
Tigers get payback win against the Delta Devils of MVSU November 5, 2015 Morgan Beard Staff Writer The Jackson State University Tigers won in sloppy fashion last week in front of 3,827 fans. The Tigers defeated the Delta Devils of Mississippi Valley State University 26-16 at Rice-Totten Stadium on Oct. 31, a rainy Halloween day. JSU is now 3-3 in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play and 3-5 overall. Sophomore Quarterback Jarin Morikawa from Mililani, Hawaii, who started the game with 3 of 6 passes for 50 yards, left the game after two series in the 1st quarter before going out with an injury. During the next series, injured
junior QB LaMontiez Ivy from East St. Louis, Ill., led the team in passing with 12 of 28 passes for 147 yards and one touchdown. Sophomore RB Robert Johnson, IV led the team in rushing with a season high of 112 yards on 24 attempts with 4.7 yards per carry average and two catches for 15 yards. This was his second straight and third career 100 yard rushing game. Senior WR Devin Fosselman from Woodville, Miss., led the team in receiving yards with 6 catches for 85 yards and a 24 yard game winning touchdown connection from Ivy. With 14 first downs the Tigers total up 309 yards of offense (117 passing yards and
132 rushing yards). Defensively, the Tigers held the Delta Devils to 131 yards of total offense (69 rushing yards, 62 passing yards) and 11 first downs. This was the sixth time this season that the Tigers held an individual rusher under 100 yards in a game. Junior DE Javancy Jones from Macon, Miss., led the team with nine tackles, a sack, 2.5 tackles for loss and a QB hurry. Linebacker Kwame Bowens from Lithonia, Ga., also had an outstanding game with eight tackles, a tackle for a loss, a blocked kick and an interception. Senior DE Teddrick Terrell, sophomore DE Keontre Anderson, and junior DT Cornelius Henderson each had...
Photo: JSU Athletics Media
Robert Johnson (20) posted his second straight 100-yd rushing game.
Sports
Page 12 - January 21, 2016
The Blue & White Flash
Tony Hughes is new JSU head football coach University Communications
Jackson State University’s Director of Athletics Wheeler Brown announced the hiring of Tony Hughes as the football program’s 19th head coach during a Monday morning press conference in the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center Hall of Fame Room. “Today is a great day to be a Tiger,” Brown said. “Coach Hughes brings over 31 years of experience to the position, and we expect great things from him and from our football program.” Hughes, a Mississippi native, comes to Jackson State from Mississippi State University, where he spent seven seasons as a key member of the Bulldogs football coaching staff. Hughes is known as one of the top recruiting coordinators in the nation. In 2015, 247Sports. com tabbed him as one of America’s top 10 recruiters after Mississippi State hauled in one of the nation’s top 16 classes, according to recruiting services. In the spring of 2013, he was named assistant head coach. According to Rivals.com, the 22 National Letters of Intent MSU received on 2015 Signing Day made up the Bulldogs’ best since 2003. Fifteen of the signees hailed from Mississippi. Local recruiting will be a top priority for Hughes at Jackson State. He plans to focus on recruitment within a 150-mile radius of the university. “We will recruit players from the state of Mississippi and the local Jackson area,” Hughes said. “I believe that there are enough players in the state. If we recruit right and evaluate
Photo: Charles A. Smith
New JSU head football Coach Tony Hughes is known as one of the top recruiting coordinators in the nation.
right, every year we will field a great football team.” “As soon as this press conference is over with, I’ll be on the phone making some calls to get us some football players in here.” Working formula: honesty and respect “I’m telling you right now that I don’t have a magic wand in my pocket. I don’t have a crystal ball. I can’t predict how many wins we will have, but I know hard work, discipline and toughness. I know that formula works. When we put those ingredients together as the basic foundation of our program – honesty, treating
women with respect and not using drugs and weapons and not stealing from each other – you will see a team that you are very proud of.” “With all of us working together, we can achieve success as we move forward. I’m proud to be here today and excited to be here today. In addition, Hughes has a knack for identifying players from Mississippi that go on to become NFL prospects. This is true of first-team All-American linebacker, Benardrick McKinney, who was once a two-star high school quarterback in Tunica before being drafted by the Houston Texans in 2015.
Photo: Charles A. Smith
Hughes, left, comes to JSU from Mississippi State University, where he spent seven seasons on the Bulldogs football coaching staff. He’s pictured with Athletic Director Wheeler Brown and Yolanda Owens, president of the JSU National Alumni Association.
While at Mississippi State, Hughes developed the Bulldogs’ safeties corps into one of the Southeastern Conference’s hardest-hitting units. Hughes is known for a hard-nosed defense. Following the 2014 Orange Bowl season, two of his safeties signed NFL free agent contracts, including his son, Jay – a testimony to his development of Mississippi’s talent at the Division I level. In 2006, Hughes was named one of the Top 25 college football recruiters in the nation by Rivals.com. His first two years at the University of Mississippi were spent tutoring defensive backs while spending quality time with tight ends. He spent two seasons at Louisiana Technical University and spent 10 years coaching at Hinds Community College in Raymond, Miss., where he served as the defensive coordinator and secondary coach. Hughes coached eight players who later went on to the NFL. Before working at Hinds, Hughes’ first full-time coaching position on the collegiate level was at the University of West Alabama, 1992-93. Hughes coached seven years in the Mississippi high school ranks, serving as offensive coordinator and running backs coach at Hattiesburg High School, 1988-91. He spent two seasons as the defensive secondary coach and boys track coach
at South Natchez High School in 1986-87. His first high school coaching job was at Philadelphia High School in 1985. From the Marine Corps to the gridiron Hughes served his country in the United States Marine Corps, 1981-84, and received an honorable discharge. He began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1984, working with defensive backs. He played football and ran track at Forest High School, 197476, and played defensive back at St. Paul’s College, 197677, and was a defensive back for the Southern Miss Eagles, 1977-78. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1980. He is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), serving as a member of the Mississippi FCA State Board of Directors in 1999; president of the Mississippi FCA Coaches Council in 1998; and vice president of the Mississippi FCA Coaches Council in 1997. Hughes is married to the former Marion McCaleb of Meridian, Miss., and the couple has two sons, Jamison and Jay. Jay had the prestigious honor of being the only SEC football player to represent the league at the 2015 NCAA Convention.