PG.5
Vol. 75 / No. 23
INSIDE
JSU Events....................... 2
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PG.8
March 26, 2015
www.thejsuflash.com
Residential students required to have insurance
Opinion............................ 3
News................................. 4
Variety.............................. 5 Internation Week.......... 6-7
Yes, We’re Social Jackson State Flash @the_jsuflash JacksonState-Flash
File Photo Students moving on campus during Welcome Week 2014.
@thejsuflash
5-day Weather Thursday
PM Storms High 70o Low 38o
Friday
Mostly Sunny High 63o Low 37o
Saturday
Sunny High 67o Low 41o
Sunday
Sunny High 74o Low 54o
Monday
AM Showers High 77o Low 56o
FLASH FACT
23% of undergraduates enrolled in college in 2008 had at least one child
Mark Braboy Associate Editor On Monday, Jackson State University students were notified that starting next school year, they are required to have health insurance and to show proof in order to live on campus. A mass email from the Department of Housing and Residential Life was sent to students informing them of this new policy. According to the notice,
all students who plan to live on campus this fall, after they receive their room assignments must show proof of having health insurance during the student move-in. All new and transfer students will begin moving in on Aug. 15 while returning students will start on Aug. 18. Students who are on their parent’s health insurance can show proof of this as well. Students have mixed feelings about the new policy;
some are outraged and believe that the new policy is detrimental, while others think it is a good idea. “People can’t afford this probably at this time or later on like when school starts in the fall so it’s just ridiculous to have a plan like that,” said Kentrize Woodson, a sophomore elementary education major from Jackson, Miss. Malik Walton, a freshman education major from
Jackson, Miss., said: “I really think it’s a good idea because if you know you already stay on campus and you already got that email that gives you plenty of time to go ahead and get your stuff already set up so you won’t have to wait forever on a room.” According to Charles N. Smith, the Associate Provost for Student Affairs, the reason for the new policy is to comply
Insurance Cont. on pg. 10
Jackson State hosts City of Jackson council meeting Special to the Flash
Jackson State University students were offered firsthand experience with local government when the Jackson City Council held its meeting at the Mississippi eCenter@JSU on Tuesday, March 24. JSU President Carolyn Meyers delivered the welcome, extending her gratitude on behalf of the university to the city officials. “When the city thrives, the university will thrive. When the university thrives, the city thrives,” said Meyers, encouraging more council meetings be held at JSU in the future.
Meeting, Cont. on pg. 11
Photo: Charles A. Smith Dr. Patricia Murrain, coordinator of Speech Studies, addresses the Jackson City Council, Tuesday, March 24, 2015. Looking on are: Speech Communications and Theatre students Whitney Gibson, Randrika Henderson, Briana Davis, Political Science junior Justin Wills, and Speech Communications and Theatre junior Delbert Griffin.
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.
Subscription Information
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
4TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY NIGHT OUT The JSU History & Philosopy, Music, Art, Speech Communications & Theatre and MADDRAMA presents Community Night out on March 27, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. It will take place at the New Dimesions International Fellowship Ministries. The address is 110 Alta Woods Blvd. in Jackson, Miss. This event features Joseph M. Banks, S.W.A.G.G., JSU Chorale and The Piney Wood School Cotton Blosson Singers. For more information, contact College Liberal Arts at 601-9797036. EASTER EGG HUNT You are invited to the JSU Easter Egg Hunt! This event will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2015 at the Centennial Monument Courtyard from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Such activities include: storytime, pictures with the Easter Bunny, egg hunts, and even arts and crafts tables. This event is for all ages; be sure to bring your Easter basket! WELCOME CENTER SEMINAR FEATURES JACKSON ZOO PARTNERSHIP Tuesday, March 31, from noon until 1 p.m., the Welcome Center will host a seminar
featuring speakers from the Jackson Zoo and JSU. The topics for discussion will include the Jackson State Tiger Exhibit Partnership and “JSU Day at the Zoo.” The community is invited to attend and and refreshments will be served. Come and learn about special rates for membership to students, alumni, and friends. We will have fun door prizes! RSVP today at 601-979-0883. 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. 2015 MASS COMMUNICATION DAY The Mass Communication Day will be held April 1, 2015 at the Mississippi e-Center Convention Hall from 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
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The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
“What would you do if you got pregnant/got someone pregnant in college?” Compiled by Da’Niecia Washington and Reese Tornes
Ronnie Gilbert Sophomore Early Childhood Edu. Hattiesburg, Miss.
“I would leave college, get a job, and take care of my responsibilities as a father.”
Kevron McMillian Sophomore Political science Hoover, Ariz.
“I would accept the “grown man” responsibilities of the “grown man” decision I made and be a father to the baby.”
Melody Holmes Sophomore Biology/Pre-Med Jackson, Miss.
“I would continue my education and fulfill my responsibilities as far as motherhood and my professional career.” Cartoon: Reese Tornes
Being a young mom is not the end for you! COMMENTARY Kaitlin Hewitt Freshman Chemistry Jackson, Miss.
“If I was pregnant, I would continue to get my education in college, but I would also become a commuter and get a job to support myself.”
Robert Vick Sophomore Business Marketing New Orleans, La.
“Figure out if its mine but if it is, accept my responsibilities.”
Dashawn McGruder Freshman Computer science Jackson, Miss.
“I would be hurt and get a job to provide for it.”
Rosie Dunlap Staff Writer
Kevin Tate Junior Biology Jackson, Miss.
“I make enough to support a child so I would handle my responsibilities.”
Christopher Jackson Sophomore Criminal Justice Jackson, Miss. “If I was to get a girl pregnant right now, I would try my best to finish school first and then get a job and take it from there.”
Elizabeth Louis Senior English Newton, Miss.
“If I was pregnant, after I finish crying, I would take responsibility for my actions and learn from it.”
Taylor Brittian Sophomore Biology Atlanta, Ga.
“If I were to become pregnant, I wouldn’t let that deter me from fulfilling my dreams.”
Jasmine Shell Senior Psychology Louisville, Miss.
“If I was pregnant, after I get over the shocking news, I would try to plan how to finish school.”
Moeshia Harmon Chemistry Freshman Mobile, Ala.
“If I became pregnant I would stay in school until I have the baby. While on leave, I’ll take online classes until I am able to enroll the child into daycare.”
Having a child while in college may not be ideal but does not mean that your life is completely over, despite what some may have to say about your situation. Your life is what you make of it, so someone else’s opinion should not affect the goals you wish to achieve. I dislike when people make statements to young women who are pregnant like, “You are not going to graduate”, or “There goes your dreams of finishing college”, or “Now you are going to be stuck in a dead end job trying to support your baby.” These are all stereotypes that have been around for years, but it does not mean that you have to live up to them. Whiles statistics like those from the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL), which state that 40 percent of teen moms graduate high school; 2 percent graduate from
college before the age of 30, and 80% of dads do not stick around, are discouraging, they do not have to dictate a young mom’s future. If the father decides not to stick around, your world has not come to an end. There are several programs around the United States that will help you with your child or children. This does not mean that you have to get on a welfare program to survive either. One program called Start Right Teen Mothers or Mentors, is for young mothers all over, and focuses on goal-setting, completion of high school and postsecondary education and sexual health, including the practice of safe sex to avoid repeat pregnancies. Another program is the “Mother and Child Programs” offers free on-site day care so that our mothers can complete their education or hold down a job. Young mothers need to remember a young life is now in their care. That child is depending on them and looking up to them to provide all the tools necessary to be successful in life. This should be enough motivation for them to live up to their responsibilities. I bet you are wondering how I can be so sure of these things. Well as it happens, I became a teen mom my freshman year in high school. At that time, I began to question how I was going
to be able to accomplish the goals I wanted in life. Luckily for me, one of the teachers at my school found out about a young mothers program offered at the Medical Mall in Jackson, Miss. The program helps young mothers acquire vouchers for free childcare, so participants could complete high school and the program also offered an after school center for elementary and middle school children. To make a long story short, I was able to graduate high school and I am now a sophomore English education major at Jackson State University. My daughter is four years old now and I am expecting another little one to arrive in August. My journey is not over but becoming a teen mom definitely did not stop my progress. It has made things more difficult, by my goals are still attainable. I am a full-time mother, a full-time student, and I work two jobs. If you find yourself pregnant while in school, remember that your life is not over unless you let your adversities and challenges stop your dreams. I didn’t!
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
Spring Break burglars hit the JSU Palisades Michael White MC301 Contributor/Staff
According to the Jackson State University Public Safety Department, approximately 10 rooms at the Palisades Apartments were burglarized during Spring Break. Initially there were five reports on Saturday, March 14 followed by an additional five on Monday, March 16. Thomas Albright, JSU Chief of Police, stated that upon investigation, it was determined that room doors had been left unlocked to allow for new furniture to be moved into the rooms. During this time, items were taken from the unlocked rooms. As part of the investigation, JSU Public Safety officials interviewed staff and the movers that had been contracted to replace the furniture. The investigation is still ongoing. JSU officials have contacted the students who were burglarized and will replace all their stolen items. “This was an unfortunate incident. The university wants to assure students that
we care and make sure that they are compensated for their losses,” said Albright. “Additionally, measures have been put in place to ensure that doors are double-checked on a regular basis and that safety remains a priority at all times.” Some students living in the Palisades feel that security is sufficient. “I think security is okay. I can say that the ‘Sades’ is a lot better than what it used to be,” said Darryl Bufford, a senior criminal justice major from Atlanta, Ga. “I think sometimes they do more than they have to, when it comes down to different things.” Steven Diew, a sophomore biology/pre-med major from Yazoo City, Miss., said: “I feel that since we are all in college, we should be mature enough not to break in someone’s stuff, but different people handle things in different ways. Keep your room locked, and keep your valuables hidden or tucked away somewhere.” Others students feel improvements are needed in security measures. “The security is none existent because any student
Google Image Palisades Apartments.
with a decal or sticker can get in the Palisades,” said Eric Barber, a junior health education major from Leland, Miss. According to the JSU Residential Handbook, security of personal property within the residence hall is primarily the responsibility
of the student. The room door should be locked at all times when the student is away from the room even for a short time period. Students are advised to label their personal belongings, to record serial numbers, and to photograph property as a means of identifying it in
case of loss or theft. The Department of Residence Life at JSU also encourages students to obtain sufficient insurance to cover losses due to theft. Information on student property insurance is available in office located in Campbell College North.
‘Artistic Intensity’ by JSU’s Speech Communications & Theatre heats up of Hamer’s life as an American voting rights activist and civil rights leader. Young is internationally acclaimed for this drama and has performed it on four continents, including in almost every U.S. state, multiple times; Rose E. McCoy Auditorium. (Free Admission)
Photo: University Communication Dr. Billie Jean Young will present: “This Little Light: The Fannie Lou Hamer Story.”
University Communications In a fierce display of Artistic Intensity, Jackson State University is hosting the 79th Annual National Association of Dramatic and Speech Arts (NADSA) Conference The four-day event of competitions and workshops, facilitated by JSU’s Liberal Arts Department of Speech
Communications & Theatre, begins Wednesday, March 25. Numerous NADSA events are planned during a celebration of Artistic Intensity for the university’s Fine Arts Series 2015. These include: Wednesday, March 25 7:30 p.m., Dr. Billie Jean Young in “This Little Light: The Fannie Lou Hamer Story”: The two-act play is a narrative
Thursday, March 26 7 p.m., “Faculty Recital”: JSU’s Department of Music presents “Beyond the Spiritual,” a lecture-recital featuring Phyllis Lewis-Hale, soprano, and Karen Laubengayer, piano. The lecture-recital will highlight selected art songs by four 20th-century AfricanAmerican composers: Florence Price, Camille Nickerson, Leslie Adams and Betty Jackson King; F.D. Hall Music Center, Jimmie James Jr. Recital Hall. Thursday-Friday, March 26-27 Master Classes. To sign up for the following, contact the Department of Speech Communications & Theatre, 601-979-2426. “Modern Dance Exploring”: the natural mechanics of the body and practicing movement
pathway that will enhance the movement experience in performance “Jazz Dance Exploring”: technique directly influences the musical theater dance “Performance Exploring”: best dance performance practices for the stage on concert dance and musical theater Saturday, March 28 7:30 p.m., “Jamie Thompson in “Colors”: A vibrant, uplifting artistic expression of dance, music and theater, “Colors” explores and celebrates the existence of cultural diversity. The piece investigates the evolution of people of color, identifying accomplishments, acknowledging the continuous struggles and illuminating a wealth of legacies, including those of African-Americans, Afro Caribbean and Hispanics; Rose E. McCoy Auditorium. (Free Admission) In addition, JSU’s theater department has announced other upcoming arts events. These include: JSU Orchestra and String Ensemble: Under the direction of Rachel Jordan, the JSU
Orchestra and String Ensemble and the University Orchestra (directed by Harlan Zackery Jr.) will present a joint concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, in the Jimmie James Recital Hall of the F.D. Hall Music Center Senior Exhibition: April 9-30, in the Dollye Robinson Liberal Arts Gallery Student Exhibition. “Animated World: African Art from the Anderson Collection at Jackson State University,” April 10-June 11 in Ayer Hall, Margaret Walker Center. The collective highlights three specific themes: “Cosmology in African Art,” “Images of Animals in African Art” and “Images of Ancestors in African Art.” An opening party will be at 1 p.m. April 10 in Ayer Hall. Public Lecture: “Transatlantic Souvenirs: A Dialogue of Slavery and Memory in Kongo-Inspired Relief Sculpture” by Nichole Bridges of the Saint Louis Art Museum, 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 24. “Jazz on the Plaza” Jazz Festival: “JSU Jazz Ensemble Class I & II,” “Vocal Jazz Ensemble” and “Jazz Combo,” 6 p.m. April 24.
News
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The Blue & White Flash
Students learn ethics and honesty make good journalists
Google Image Public Relations panelists at conference.
Cory Davis MC301 Contributor/Staff Jackson State University mass communication students
ventured across town March 19 to hear media professionals on five different panels discussing the importance of ethics in public relations, media management, news, digital
content media and sports broadcasting. The Belhaven University Department of Communications hosted its 2015 Media Ethics Conference on in the Barber Auditorium. The conference was open to the public and welcomed some of JSU’s students, alumni, faculty and staff. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, current chair of the Belhaven Communications Department and incoming chair of the Department of Mass Communication at JSU, was pleased to have so many universities, community colleges and high schools represented from across the state of Mississippi at the conference. Hayes-Anthony begins her new position at Jackson State on July “This is just a small glimpse of the positive innovations and rebuilding I plan on doing at Jackson State University,” said Hayes-Anthony. “Breaking: Media Ethics in a Communication Crisis” started with a panel discussion of public relations directors. “In this industry, honesty is very important,” said Olivia Goodheart, director of public
relations at JSU. “I chose public relations to have an inside look into the positive side of the industry instead of journalism, which in my opinion conveys a more pessimistic side of things.” During the discussion of news directors, the panel participants focused on how ethics has become relevant in today’s society and how the topic is very important in modern media. “Taking things out of context can come back on you as a professional. Falsifying something or plagiarism is something you just shouldn’t do,” said Ben Heart, news director at WAPT TV 16. “There has to be a standard established as to what you choose to air versus what you do not air. You don’t want to be salacious nor do you want to gross the audience out.” Since news age media is shifting more towards the Internet and social media, a panel of digital content specialists discussed the importance of attribution, credibility, and promoting ethics during controversy. “Attribution is key. Regardless of if the story is true or false, we must attribute it,”
said Angela Williams, digital content media director at WAPT TV 16. “We usually call the source and ask them to use pictures or content. We make sure that we have permission before we use any type of picture of content (from social media).” Kimberly Stampley, a senior mass communications major at JSU, was among many of the participants that enjoyed the conference. “I really enjoyed this conference today and it was very informative. I learned so much from the different panels of well-respected professionals,” said Stampley. Bonnie Jackson, adjunct professor in the Department of Mass Communications at JSU, was pleased that students from her class attended the conference. “It was nice to participate in this media ethics conference today and I was glad to have some of my students here in attendance as well,” said Jackson “The students had an opportunity to hear from some great professionals that currently work industry positions which they may aspire to work in someday.”
President Obama suggests mandatory voting in the U.S. Zerrick Hilliard MC301 Contributor/Staff During a recent press conference featured on CNN, President Barack Obama suggested that it may be time for mandatory voting in the United States to combat all time low voting turnouts in recent years. “It would counteract money more than anything,” said President Obama in the press conference, referring to large role that money often plays in election season. Although the idea of compulsory voting would be new to the United States, it has been a concept already used in many places around the world. According to International Institute for Democratic Electoral Assistance, some of the first countries to introduce a mandatory voting system were Belgium in 1892, Argentina in 1914, and Australia in 1924. The latter of which was noted as an example by Obama in his speech. The study by IDEA states that supporters of mandatory voting claim that the system is
beneficiary to both voters and political parties because voting, voluntarily or otherwise, has an educational effect upon the citizens. Political parties can derive financial benefits from compulsory voting, since they do not have to spend resources convincing the electorate that it should in general turn out to vote. IDEA statistics also show that even in countries with mandatory voting, turnout has been in decline like the U.S., despite many of these countries having some consequences for not voting. Since 2000, voting turnouts in either system have been on steady decline. Both current and former students of Jackson State University see both sides of issue. Monica Atkins, 2012 graduate of JSU, thinks that mandatory voting would ensure that the political voice of all citizens is heard, especially in the African-American community. “It would force an awakening because if it becomes mandatory, more people will take it more seriously and do more research
on who they’re voting for,” said Atkins. Atkins sees a compulsory voting system manageable even though the system would conflict with the cultural influence on individual action.
Opponents to compulsory voting believe that it will punish those who have made the decision not to vote. Brandon Theodore, senior accounting major does not believe the system would make any positive change in
the country. “It’s a waste of money going into keeping up with who votes and who doesn’t. I don’t see it being positive. If someone doesn’t want to vote, that’s their choice,” said Theodore.
2015 International Week
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1) International students enjoying treats at the Ice Cream Social. 2) Professor displays native dress during International Bazaar. 3) New Jerusalem Christian School students get face painted at International Bazaar. 4) JSU student display ‘henna’ body art. 5) Students during Parade of Flags event. Photos by William Kelly
The Blue & White Flash
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1) Sonic BoomWT Drumline performs during International Bazaar. 2) Student during Parade of Flags. 3) Priscilla Slade, special assistant to the provost for International Programs assists student during Parade of Flags. 4) Student dances during International Bazaar. 5) Chinese artifacts displayed during Bazaar. 6) Staff member dances during Bazaar. 8) JSU Spirit Team Member during Parade of Flags. 9) Students from NJCS enjoying International Bazaar. Photos by William Kelly
News
Page 8 - March 26, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Actress KeKe Palmer discusses upcoming projects
Photo: William Kelly
Photo: William Kelly
Left - Flash editor Mark Braboy and KeKe Palmer. Right - KeKe Palmer and Eric Hill during Meet & Greet at the JSU Student Center.
Mark Braboy Associate Editor On March 19, award winning actress Keke Palmer and Eric Hill arrived at Jackson State University to give students an advance screening on their new film, “Brotherly Love”. During their visit, the Blue & White Flash was able to have a conversation with the young actress about the new film, future projects, and her thoughts on the state of young African-Americans today. Mark Braboy: Could you elaborate on how the film sheds lights light on young people and relationships? Keke Palmer: Definitely, that’s probably the main reason why I wanted to be a part of this film, because the script had a way of exposing the issue without making you feel as if you were looking down on the children. I think a lot of times with our generation is that you have so many people talking at us as opposed to having conversations with us. We’re very aware of our issues and things that are going on today, but I think for instance it’s not easy to translate to the older generations. So with “Brotherly Love” you have a film that portrays us talking about the issues to one another. And instead of having to look at it as judgement, the writer, Jamal Hill, does a good job in making you have compassion for the characters and kind of understanding our position a little bit better.
MB: What do you think a lot of movies like this miss that this film captures? KP: You know, every movie has its thing. Some movies are more so about the sexual activity of children today and them finding it funny. Sometimes it’s about the violence that’s going on and how it’s actually desensitizing the generation. Our movie is kind of... it’s not either one of those movies which I feel like we’ve had a lot of. I feel like we have not had many of these films. I feel like this film is a call back to the Higher Learning’s, to the Love and Basketball’s to the Wood’s, and that they’re not focusing on any of the extremes of the generation, they’re focusing on more of the realities. MB: Right, I feel what you’re saying. So, do you feel like there are some similarities between you and your character, Jackie? KP: Absolutely. Jackie is a young girl that’s kind of been kept under her family, under her brothers watching and she’s reaching a point in her life where she’s ready to spread her own wings as far as what her dreams may be and also what love may be. I’ve been through that as well, just kind of finding who I am outside of my mom. My mom and I, not only is she my mom, but she’s also my business partner through most of my career. So it’s kind of hard to imagine what it is I really want? What is it that I really think? Now
it’s time for me to be an adult as well and not just the kid listening, but the adult having opinions and having ideas and it can be scary. So it comes to a point where you have to be confident in your own decision and having faith in what you want to do. That’s pretty much what Jackie was going through as well, especially in love. MB: I was watching “Empire” the other day and I noticed that you have a new show coming out called “Scream Queens”. Could you tell me about that? So the show is pretty much about these girls living in a sorority house and kind of like you know, it has a bit of the mean girls spirit cause you have the hierarchy to the sorority. You have the other girls that’s trying to be a part of the sorority, so you have a little bit of that cattiness but also there are people that are getting murdered on the campus so you have this horror aspect to it so it’s kind of like this horror comedy. It’s written and created by Ryan Murray so it kind of has a campy feel to it like “Glee”. There’s no singing in it, but it has an element of dark comedy to it. MB: Tell me about the sororities. I noticed that there are two different sororities in each of the teasers. KP: Well, not so much different sororities, but Emma Robinson’s character
is the head of the sorority and my character as well as some other characters are trying to get into the sorority. We’re thinking about getting in because, you know in college, the dorms rooms are never cool. So it’s like we’re more so trying to get into the sorority in the hopes of getting into a more comfortable surroundings. The sorority house is very comfortable and amongst that a lot of crazy things occur. MB: Is the show inspired by true events and did you guys actually go to a college campus? KP: Not necessarily MB: Based on the current racial tensions in America along with current events, what do you think it means to be young and black in America. Whether you’re successful or not, what does it mean in your opinion? KP: I think it depends on what you feel it means. I think it means something different for everybody and for me especially. What I would want young African-American people to know today is that at the end of the day, they don’t have to be what they see. When you look at the media, when you see certain things about yourself, you don’t have to take that as that’s who you are. Because when you think about it, a lot of times these shows are created by AfricanAmerican people. So I really want young
African-African people to know that if you want to change the images and if you want to see something different then get into a position of power to change it! You set the tone for who you are. You don’t have to look at the news or look at the papers that tells you who you are as an African-American person in this world. You decide who you are! And that’s the biggest issue that I have is that young African-American people allow other people to tell them who they are as opposed to setting the tone. MB: Obviously, you’re a very positive image to our community. You’re somebody who people look up to. What’s it like to be a person that’s held at such a high standard? KP: It’s difficult because there’s no such thing as perfect. Clearly, I got some skeletons in my closet like ever ybody’s got skeletons in their closet. Nothing’s perfect about me. But I think that I work ver y hard to tr y my best really. I had a great support system. My mom and my daddy they did a really good job in letting me know what should be important. It should never be just what you want, and yourself. What should be important is that you’re getting out here and helping somebody else. You’re using your gift for good. You’re giving what God gave you awakes others. For the fu ll inter v ie w : v isit www.thejsuf lash.com.
The Blue & White Flash
Sal & Mookie’s Brittney Snell Staff Writer Sal & Mookie’s is my favorite restaurant so I am excited to finally get the chance to review them for my Tiger comrades. The restaurant is known as a specialty New York style pizza and ice cream parlor. It is located at 565 Taylor Street in my favorite part of town, Fondren, which is known for its creative and artsy atmosphere. One of the things that makes Sal & Mookie’s so great is the different types of pizzas they serve. Each one is so different from the next, with unique New York themed
names to spike your interest, along with creative toppings and combinations you may be surprised to see. When I visited, I ordered the Zydeco, which had andouille s au s a g e , crawfish and creole seasoning on top. It was an excellent deviation from the norm, especially in comparison to cafeteria pizza. I also got to taste their hot wings which were pretty decent. They were not as hot as I expected them to be. I think they would have been better categorized as mild, but either way they were still satisfying. Other than pizza and hot wings, Sal & Mookie’s also serves subs, burgers and various Italian dishes. These options are very affordable, especially compared to the pizzas. Most of the pizzas are $20 for the regular size and around $25 for the large. Everything else on the menu is around $10-$15. Since they are known for their ice cream, I made sure I got dessert. I decided to try their chocolate malt. It was my first time having one and I was really surprised by how amazing it tasted. They are almost like milkshakes, but taste just like the Hershey’s
News
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malt candy. Though I really like them, I know that they might not be for everyone. They have an assortment of desserts and ice cream drinks to try, so there is plenty to choose from. In addition to the delicious food, Sal & Mookies has a very relaxed and family oriented atmosphere. It caters to everyone, young or old. I love that you can see the workers actually making the pizzas when you walk in and that it has a New York feel that makes you want to visit the actual city. The ice cream parlor is definitely something that
makes the restaurant special and makes the experience unique. Also there is a lounge aside from the main restaurant that houses a bar and an area for adults the relax. Overall, Sal & Mookie’s is just a wonderful restaurant. I have been there many times and have never been disappointed. I enjoy myself every time I go and I encourage others who have not been to definitely go, it just may become a favorite of yours as well. The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
5 out of 5 for ks!
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with the Affordable Health Care Act, reduce high ambulance expenses for the university, and to make sure students have access to facilities. “The university is trying to comply with the requirements of the affordable care act as much as possible. Also there have been health issues that have happened around the country. If there is an emergency need, the university cannot transport them (students) in anyone’s vehicle, but we have to call the ambulance. There is a cost associated with it, from $400 or more. If they have their health issuance or are on their parent’s health insurance, it’s covered through the policy,” said Smith. “The university wants to be sure the students are healthy and have access to facilities. It is very necessary we have our students covered due to all of the different illnesses emerging, considering tuberculosis, measles and other illnesses. There have been incidents where students have been transferred to the hospital and the cost of the ambulance was placed on the students’ bill, which upset the student,” he added. Smith explained that the
policy of requiring residential students to have health insurance is common at other universities and that students will also have to show proof of their vaccination records as well. It is a long standing policy that will now be strictly enforced for the 2015-2016 school year. Additionally, it is a requirement of the U.S. State Department that all international students must have health insurance and show proof of vaccination. After contacting other Mississippi university housing officials, including the University of Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi, Alcorn State University, Mississippi State University, Millsaps College, Mississippi College, Tougaloo College, and Mississippi Valley State University, the only other schools with this similar policy are Millsaps, Valley State, and Mississippi College. The JSU Housing page has been updated to reflect the new policy. The priority deadline for all applications is May 1. Room assignments will be available on your JSU PAWS account by July 15. For further assistance, contact JSU Housing 601-9792326. Avi’Yam Jordan contributed to this story.
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Meeting
Cont. from pg.1
the Department of English & Modern Foreign Languages. During the time allotted for public comments, Jordan Carter, a junior in political science major and Kiyadh Burt, a senior in political science major, shared the struggles they have endured with the increasingly decaying and failing infrastructure of the City of Jackson. “We didn’t get here overnight,” said Yarber about the deteriorating streets. “They were a long time coming and will take some time to fix.” Yarber said that the city is working on an Infrastructure Master Plan that the Council is addressing. Complaints about the water system and constant boil water alerts were also discussed during the meeting. Jean C. Frazier, state
relations coordinator, JSU Division of Institutional Advancement, said the Council previously held a meeting at the Student Center in 2013. Dr. William McHenry, executive director of the e-Center, said this is the first time the Council has met there. “It’s good to have the City Council back,” said Meyers. “We are pleased to share our resources with them because our futures are intertwined.” Noting that JSU will also be hosting a meeting of the Hinds County Board of Supervisors this year, Otha Burton, JSU Institute of Government executive director said, “It’s good anytime we can bring government to the people.” Alexis Neely contributed and information from JSU Media Relations was used in the story.
JSU student interns to Council members were recognized by Council President DeKeither Stamps, who lauded their enthusiasm, hard work and importance to keeping the meetings going smoothly. The speech communications and theatre students recognized were: Whitney Gibson, Randrika Henderson, Briana Davis and Delbert Griffin; graphic design major Terriannah Anderson and political science junior Justin Wills. Not only current students, but former students and their ties were prominent at the meeting. Yarber, a JSU graduate, praised the university, as did Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth I. Stokes, who noted he was an alumnus as well as members of his family. That prompted Ward 5 Councilman Charles Tillman to remind the Council that JSU is in his district. Several council members used the occasion to pay homage to recently deceased and influential people connected to the City of Photo: Charles A. Smith Jackson and JSU, including social activist Stephanie Parker- JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers (left) watches the Jackson City Council Tuesday, Weaver and Associate Professor along with Dr. Mary M. White, interim vice president of institutional advancement and Jean Chamberlain, Chair of Dr. William McHenry, executive director of the Mississippi e-Center @JSU; and Dr. Otha Burton, executive director, JSU Institute of Government.
Sports
Page 12 - March 26, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Jackson State Tigers defeat Jaguars from pitcher’s mound Jenna Siddiqui MC 301 Practicum/Staff
Coming off a two game winning streak, Jackson State University’s baseball team went on to defeat the Jaguars of Southern University on March 24. Rene Colon started off the game pitching four innings, allowing five hits, two runs, and struck out seven batters. Seberon Mackey then entered the game and got the win by pitching two innings, allowing three hits, no runs, and struck out one batter. Mackey, a sophomore criminal justice major from Freeport, Bahamas said, “Rene got us off to a great start and all the pitchers competed in the strike zone and forced them to move the ball. Our teammates had our backs and made plays behind us. We hit the ball really well and got our situational hits when we needed them.” In the bottom of the first inning, Lamar Briggs singled to left field and reached third base on an error. Briggs scored off of a triple to right field by Melvin Rodriguez. After Jovany Felipe walked, Sam Campbell singled to shortstop scoring Rodriquez
Photo: Dominique McCraney JSU player pitches the ball.
and advancing Felipe to second. Jesus Santana singled to left field, bringing in Felipe and advancing Campbell to third. Later that inning, Campbell scored off of a single to shortstop by Jonah Hargroves, giving the Tigers a 4-1 lead.
First baseman, Sam Campbell, a sophomore criminal justice major from Yazoo City, Miss., said, “I think we did pretty well. We swung the bats well and played good defense, but we just have to close games out better and not give up runs
in the ninth inning.” Starting off the bottom of the fourth inning, Gar y Thomas singled to right field. Briggs was hit by pitch, advancing Thomas to second. Thomas and Briggs advanced to the next base off of a passed ball.
Rodriguez then hit a single to right field, bringing in Thomas and advancing Briggs to third. A wild pitch allowed Briggs to score and advanced Rodriguez to second. Campbell doubled to right field after Felipe was hit by a pitch, advancing him to third base and bringing in Rodriguez. Santana doubled to right field bringing in Campbell and Felipe, increasing their lead 9-2. Catcher, Jovany Felipe, a senior from Miami, Fla., said, “We did a good job defensively and it created momentum for our offense to drive in runs.” In the bottom of the fifth inning, Briggs walked and scored on a double to left field by Rodriguez. In the sixth inning, Dylan Parker singled to center field then advanced to second off of a single hit by Hargroves. Parker scored off of a double to left field by Thomas. The Tigers improved their overall record to 15-8 with an 11-5 victor y over Southern University. They return to Robert Braddy Sr. Field on April 3 at 6 p.m. as they take on the Braves of Alcorn State University.
JSU students looking forward to WWE Wrestlemania 31 Mark Braboy Associate Editor
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With the Super Bowl one and done, March Madness heading to a close, and the NBA playoffs coming sooner than later, we have one more mega event in sports remaining: Wrestlemania 31! LL Cool J will host this year’s 31st edition of the wrestling mega event that will be held in Santa Clara, Calif. at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, March 28. The electrifying evening will feature an evening filled with explosive matches featuring rising new comers like Bray Wyatt, Dean Ambrose, Rusev, and the Money in the Bank winner, Seth Rollins; along with blockbuster stars and legends like John Cena, The Undertaker, Triple H, and for the first time, former World Champion Wrestling (WCW) star, Sting. Many wrestling fans will be looking forward to the grand spectacle, especially the long awaited return of The Undertaker, after his defeat against the current WWE
World Heavyweight Champion Brock Lesnar last year, breaking his previously undefeated at Wrestlemania streak. “I’m looking forward to Wrestlemania. I mean, you got the Undertaker returning. It’s going to be a big number event just because the Undertaker is going to return from his loss and they want to see what kind of shape he’s in. And then of course you got Sting vs. Triple H as a headliner,” said Gregory Tate, a freshman computer engineering major from Jackson, Miss. The biggest wrestling event in the world is a culmination of many high profile feuds beginning from mid 2014 up until now. Some of the more high profile matchups that will be featured include former WWE champion Randy Orton vs. Seth Rollins, John Cena vs. Rusev for the United States Championship, Bray Wyatt vs. The Undertaker, and the controversial and highly anticipated main event, Roman Reigns vs. the current champ and former UFC Heavyweight champ, Brock Lesnar.