The Blue & White Flash February 30, 2023

www.sites.jsums.edu/jsufl

JSU community responds to the devastation caused by several tornadoes in Mississippi

JSU Flash Staff

At least 26 people died and dozens more were injured when confirmed EF-4 tornadoes devasted Rolling Fork, Amory and other communities in Mississippi on March 24.

In a press release from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), it has been confirmed by the National Weather Service that seven tornadoes touched down in Mississippi. One EF-4 tornado (Rolling Fork/Silver City tornado), two EF-3 tornadoes (Carroll/Montgomery County tornado and Monroe County tornado), and four EF-1 tornadoes impacted the state.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website, President Biden approved a major disaster declaration on March 25 for areas affected by tornadoes. This declaration will allow immediate aid to help residents with the basic essentials of life, including shelter, food, and clothing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe and Sharkey counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

The Jackson State University community, which includes students,

staff and faculty from the affected areas, has also responded with words and actions.

Acting President Elayne H. Anthony released the following statement on March 25.

Last night, a devasting tornado ripped through the Mississippi Delta and Alabama taking the lives of at least 24 people and injuring many others.

The Jackson State University family extends our deepest condolences to the victims and survivors of this tragedy. We especially grieve for any students from these communities. Please know that we are here to be a resource, and we will provide counseling and other services as needed.

Tomorrow, a delegation of JSU journalism students, faculty and I will go to the area hit in Mississippi. We will assist with reporting and delivering emergency supplies in partnership with a local radio station that was damaged in the storm. Please keep our delegation and everyone impacted by the storm lifted in your prayers.

The University also released a statement on March 28 that read in part: We are all aware of the recent devastation caused by the tornadoes and extend our sympathies to those families impacted by the damaging effects of the horrible storms across our state last week. We especially offer our deepest condolences to those families grieving the loss of loved

ones during this difficult time. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you as you try to move forward. We have heard from you all and your desire to help the communities that have been impacted by this tragedy. We have worked with local officials and have been given items that are specifically being requested for the areas…

The statement continued:

According to the statement, JSU and Tougaloo College Trio programs are partnering to collect items for high school students and their families in the affected areas. Student leadership is leading the collection of nonperishable food, toilet paper, paper towels, baby formula, school supplies, and cleaning supplies. These items can be dropped off in the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership on the 2nd floor of the Student Center. We will collect these items through Friday, March 31.

Journalism and media studies Professor Don Spann was a part of a delegation from JSU who traveled to the areas affected by the tornadoes to help and cover the story. He was shocked by what he saw.

“My initial reaction was to try and find words to convey what I was seeing. Over my career, I have covered many tornadoes, but this is the worst I’ve seen. A city totally annihilated,” said Spann. Spann felt it was important for media students to be introduced to covering tragedies like this. He said, “Anytime there’s an

opportunity for our students to cover real time, major news stories, it better prepares them for working in the media industry. Being able to take the knowledge learned in the classroom, executed when needed, further strengthens their confidence and skill sets.”

Senior journalism and media studies student Jazmine Moering was also a part of the delegation.

“My initial reaction when I saw the devastation was what can I do to help. Knowing that this recovery phase can take months and even years to come back from just hurt. When I saw all of the damage and twisted up 18-wheelers, it hurt,” said Moering, a Jackson native. “As we walked and talked to different people from the community, the pain made me hurt as well. We were able to talk with a family there of three generations and to see them looking for photo albums broke me down. That house was the family home. The great grandmother was the original owner of that home.”

Moering added, “As a media student, I felt as though it was important for me to cover this story being that it will help me prepare for what’s to come for me next. This opportunity to see this amount of devastation first hand can never be taken away from me. Also, it showed me how to control my emotions while out on scene,” Moering said.

She added, “A real human knowing that no amount of money in the world can change what some

of these people went through hurts. And from a media aspect, I saw the rapid response time for other media professionals and had the opportunity to speak with a few of them. Media professionals actually stopped me because of the type of camera I was shooting with.”

Quindarius Thorton, a junior human resource and development major from Jackson, Miss., offered encouragement to those affected.

“I would say to them, keep your head up. It’s a minor setback for a major comeback. Everyone at JSU is praying for them and offers their support,” Thorton.

According to MEMA, over 21 thousand customers are still without power, with Issaquena and Montgomery counties reporting almost 100 percent outages. MEMA has coordinated multiple resources to help those impacted. Those resources include bottled water, potable water tankers, tarps, portable restrooms, hand washing stations, batteries, bank chargers, and fuel for critical infrastructure generators.

If you would like to help storm victims or have any questions regarding JSU donation requests, you can contact Dr. Mitchell Shears (TRIO initiative/Sally Barksdale drop-off ) mitchell.m.shears@jsums. edu, Dr. Arron Richardson (Student Leadership lead) arron.l.richardson@ jsums.edu, or Ms. Jacqueline Moore (External partner information) jacqueline.l.moore@jsums.edu.

All photos taken by Jazmine Moering: Photo 1: Depicts the devastation of the tornadoes. Photo 2: Acting President Elayne H. Anthony speaks to Rolling Fork resident. Photos 3-4 depict how the tornado tossed vehicles and 18-wheelers into homes and flattened them.

All photos taken by Jazmine Moering

Tiger Events

Celebrate current greats during Women’s

COMMENTARY

Women’s History Month is one that can be easily celebrated.

Let’s face it, in the word’s of Aretha Franklin, “Sisters are doin it for themselves!”

Throughout history, women have led the charge in many of the historical times in history.

Just to name a few: Famed New Orleans community leader Leah Chase, Dr. June Jackson Christmas, one of the first African-Americans to graduate from Vassar College, Ida B. Wells, the founder of the NAACP, Novelist Toni Morrison, Supreme Court JusticeRuth Bader Ginsburg, and so many more.

But current women are leading the charge today as well.

Michelle Obama has morphed from the first African-American First Lady to novelist, motivational speaker and activist.

Malala Yousafzai has proven that age is nothing but a number in her efforts to speak out against injustice.

According to draperand kramer.com At the age of 15, Malala Yousafzai was shot in the head by the Pakistani Taliban while traveling home from school. The assassination attempt was in retaliation to Yousafzai’s demands that girls receive an equal education to boys.

She survived and went

on to become the youngest individual to receive a Nobel Peace Prize at the age of 17.

Lilly Ledbetter is another woman who should be celebrated.

According to draperand kramer.com, she is a powerful activist for women’s pay equality. Ledbetter filed suit in 1998 against Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, her former employer, due to being paid significantly less than her male colleagues.

The court went on to rule against her in 2007, claiming the suit had to be brought within six months of the discrimination occurring. She fought back, making the case that she hadn’t discovered the discrepancy until several years later.

Her story caught the attention of Ruth Bader Ginsberg, who helped enact the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, helping employees win pay discrimination claims beyond the six-month period. The act was the first piece of legislation signed into law by President Barack

History Month

Obama in 2009.

Athletics will never be the same because of this next great woman, Serena Williams.

According to bhg.com, Williams, a professional tennis player with 23 Grand Slam singles titles to her name—the last of which she won while pregnant. She currently holds more titles than any other active player, has won four Olympic gold medals, and became the highest-paid female athlete in the world in 2016. She’s spent much of her career advocating for equal treatment of women and women of color within sports, and has been outspoken about the gender pay inequality in athletics.

No story on current prolific women would be complete without paying homage to U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris.

According to bhg.com, After serving as District Attorney of San Francisco, California Attorney General, and United States Senator, Kamala Harris became the

Vice President of the United States in 2021 and is the first female, the first Black American, and the first South Asian American to hold the office. After the election in 2020, Harris said “While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last—because every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities.”

These women have already made their mark in women’s history, so to all the women reading this, now it’s your turn!

All history is not recorded in books, make your own history by being the best you can be at whatever you do best.

Encourage other women to do the same. Never forget, we are stronger together so let your voice be heard!

The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

“What current female public figure has influenced you the most? Why?”

Compiled by: Jai’den Smith

Anealia Ryant

Junior Communicative Dis./Psych.

Albany, Ga.

“Michelle Obama because she is the first black first lady in the white house and is very influential. Her famous quote comes to mind, ‘When they go low, we go high’.”

“Oprah

Andrew Anderson Sophomore Criminal Justice Los Angeles, Calif.

“Jhene Aiko because she taught me even though you can’t control your origin, you are the one who can control your destination.”

Taylor Wimberly Sophomore Psychology Cincinnati, Ohio

“Ava DuVernay because she creates films of black history and isn’t afraid to tell the truth about what has happened. She is also the first woman to create a movie that grossed over $100 million.”

Jordan Brown Sophomore Marketing East St. Louis, Ill.

“Jackie Joyner-Kersee has been an influential black woman in my life. Beyond her athletic abilities as one of the greatest Olympic athletes.”

“Jazmine Sullivan because she took a five-year hiatus to take care of her mother. That’s something I would do as I care a lot for my friends and loved ones. She came back stronger and won multiple Grammys and released a record-breaking album.”

Christopher Mannery Sophomore Psychology Jackson, Miss.

“The acting president, Dr. Anthony. She has shown me that bad circumstances do not mean that the entire experience has to be negative. She has stepped into the role of president for Jackson State and rose to the occasion.”

Christian Mannery Sophomore Political Science Jackson, Miss.

“Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown because seeing someone who looks like me. I like the fact that she is not only supporting black people but women of all ages and colors and ethnicities.”

Tyrah Rucker Sophomore Psychology Los Angeles, Calif.

“My female inspiration is Angela Bassett. Throughout all the hate and backlash she has always remained graceful and dignified. Angela Bassett will always be an influential woman to me.”

Joshua Edwards Senior Journalism & Media Studies Tulsa, Okla.

“77th SGA President Madison Cathey. I have seen her put in a lot of work and other people do not see behind the scenes. The things she does behind closed doors match what she does in person so that is something I truly admire.”

Bryson Reems Junior Healthcare Admin. Oakland, Calif.

“Maya Angelou will forever be one I look up to because not only did she use her poetry and writing to give a voice to the silenced but she was civil rights activist with primary focus on paving the way for African-American women.”

Shannon Tatum Special to the Flash

Autumn Gould Sophomore Criminal Justice Detroit, Mich.

“My female inspiration is Mrs. Reveita Caldwell here at Jackson State. She has been like another mother to me. She opened her house to me as a little ole freshman and showed me that I chose Jackson State for a reason.”

JaVonn Shoulders Sophomore Pre-physical Therapy Jackson, Miss.

Winfrey because she’s also a Mississippian and she grew up poor and became one of the most successful black women in America.”

Ohmaree Douglas Sophomore Social Work Summit, Miss.

Cartoon by Elizabeth Duncan

Miss and Mister JSU candidates stress the importance of tradition

Shakell James Staff Writer

Candidates vying for the titles of Mister and Miss Jackson State University, focused their attentions on the traditions of JSU during the pageant, Royals in Paris, held on March 24, 2023 in the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium.

The program’s master and mistress of the ceremony were Chandler Carter and Halle Coleman. Chandler is a sophomore speech communications major from Dallas, Texas. Coleman is a Jackson State alumna and served as the 82nd Miss Jackson State University.

The national anthem began the ceremony, as the judges and candidates were welcomed. candidates.

Elisha Brown, Lauren Temple, and Laila Woodfork are the candidates that will move forward to campaign for the coveted position of the 84th Miss Jackson State University.

Quandaveus Gilliam and Austin Rolfe will meet head-tohead in their quest to become the 7th Mister Jackson State University.

Once the candidates were formally introduced, electoral speeches were given. Each candidate spoke of their visions for TheeILove.

Rolfe, a junior business marketing major from Little Rock, Ark. said, “The traditions of Jackson State University and other HBCUs are a source of pride!” His campaign is focused on the past, purpose, and preparation.

Gilliam, a junior healthcare administration major from Phenix City, Ala. said that HBCUs are not the starting point, but a very important detail in the already determined success.

“The plaza, the Athletics and Assembly Center (AAC),

and The Sonic Boom of the South are our traditions. These traditions influence us on how we communicate and we view the world today,” said Gilliam.

Brown had this to say about tradition.

“Maintaining a tradition is a tribute to triumphs,” said Brown, a junior elementary education major from Columbus, Miss.

“Navy, blue, and white have stood the test of time, however I am in full support of the peek of red that has made its debut of the years. This represents our triumphs, our ability to challenge the norm, and our willingness to build on top of the legacy that has been left behind to ensure that we make changes at Jackson State University,” said Brown.

Temple spoke about the

importance of maintaining traditions.

“Coming into college, I understand why traditions are so important because I was a part of the class that went without them. It’s imperative that the culture at JSU stay and enhance the student experience. We cannot move forward if we cannot access our past,” said Temple, a junior biology/ pre-medicine major from Slidell, La. Woodfork believes that if you do not know where you come from, you will not know where you belong with Temple that traditions are very important.

“Tradition by definition is the transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation. Today we experience the impact of tradition through black excellence”,

said Woodfork, a junior biology/ pre-medicine major from New Orleans, La.

Proceeding into the talent portion, each candidate ‘brought the house down’.

Rolfe presented the audience with his very own rap song while Gilliam gave the audience a look at new school and old school dances.

Brown brought out student dancers to represent each form of dance while Temple showcased her vocals with “Almost There” by Anika Noni Rose from the movie “Princess and the Frog”.

Woodfork displayed a plethora of African dances and was accompanied by drummers.

During the Poise and Projection section, each candidate responded to a random question asked by the hosts.

as they prepare to embark on new journeys after graduation.

The contestant order was announced based on every category presented. The first contestant for Mister JSU was Rolfe, making Gilliam the second. For Miss JSU, the order is Temple, Woodfork, and Brown. The school’s alma mater “Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear” was played to conclude the ceremony. All candidates for Student Government Association positions are currently campaigning. Voting will begin via PAWS on Thursday, March 30 at 2 p.m. and end on Friday, March 31 at 2 p.m. Winners will be announced on Friday.

Four fraternities introduce new members during Thee Great Reveal

The Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center was ecstatic as four out of Jackson State’s nine Greek organizations welcomed a new line of members during their probate.

On Saturday, March 28, 2023, the Jackson State University National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) hosted “THEE Great Reveal”, a thrilling showcase introducing new members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

The different organizations revealed their new members through a series of unique and attention-grabbing rituals, each with its own distinctive flair.

The Alphas were the first to introduce its new line of members. They revealed 12 new students to represent their organization.

The Alphas entered the arena on a mission. They were dressed in black SWAT uniforms with “Delta Phi” written in gold lettering across their chest. They were determined to cease

all the noise in the room and arrest the crowd’s attention.

Delta Phi welcomed Douglas Taylor, Najavion Goudy, Downie Grim, Jordan McCollins, Jordan Brown, Diata Callwood, Jaylen Burns, Quindarius Thornton, Dynale Washington Jr, Hugh Taylor, and Caleb Haley.

The Alphas set the tone for the show, mixing several crowdpleasing antics within their routine.

Their performance was near flawless, but members of the organization emphasized that it could be done without countless hours of practice.

New Alpha Jaylen Burns, a junior industrial technology major from Chicago Ill., claimed that the organization lost many hours of sleep trying to perfect their performance.

“There were many nights where we got minimal amounts of sleep simply because we wanted the show to be the best it could be,” stated Burns.

Their hard work did not go unnoticed in the slightest. The crowd was constantly engaged throughout each segment of the performance.

Next was the introduction of new members of Phi Beta Sigma. The 14 members lined up in black face masks and sunglasses,

waiting to be revealed.

The members had an oldschool aura as they rocked a fully customized black vest with blue detailing, accompanied by a blue turtleneck for an undershirt.

The Sigmas moved in unison as they marched to the middle of the court and performed their signature chants.

The new line of Sigma members include: Quad Hunt, Tre Hunt, Jamie Johnson, Tyler Huckleberry, Jordan Ambrose, Michael Stewart, Jeremiah Hudson, Grant Harris, Trevion Cobbins, Kevin Dobson, Sean Harris, Daniel Hillman, Xavier Hall, and Shomari Smith.

As the new members made their way off the court, the crowd began to anxiously await the performance of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Their organization welcomed 11 new members, who were eager to be freed. A few of the 11 new members included: Junebug Robinson, Ben Barner, Malachi O’neal, Arwyn Peak, and Deonte Graham.

They were dressed in a purple ski mask, a gray hoodie repping their Upsilon Epsilon chapter, and camouflage pants as if they were preparing for battle.

The Omega Psi Phi chapter

didn’t only reveal new members, but also a new level of energy in the probate. Alumni and current members were emphatic during their reveal, causing the crowd to match their energy.

Britney Taplin, a junior marketing major from Byram, Miss., was taken aback by the amount of energy the organization brought.

“The Ques are always full of energy and excitement,” stated Taplin. “Seeing their reveal was one of the best parts of the event.”

Finally, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. welcomed 13 new members into their organization.

Some new members that were revealed were Ezekiel Joseph, Nathan Stewart, Daylen Glover, Errick Simmons, Byram McKinney, Desmond Washington, and Jeremiah Dierre Hartman.

The new line entered the court in true Kappa fashion. Dressed in suits replicating their signature colors of red and white and masks similar to the “The Phantom of the Opera” theme, the group caught everyone’s attention.

Jeremiah Hartman, a junior journalism and media studies major from Indianapolis, Ind.,

emphasized his gratitude for being a new member of the Kappas.

“Being a member of Kappa Alpha Psi to me is a dream come true,” stated Hartman. “Being a native from Indiana was something I took pride in because not many men have the opportunity to pledge where I’m from.”

The Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity was founded in 1911 at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, which was a predominantly white institution at a time when racism and prejudice were still present.

Fast forward 112 years and black colleges and institutions have embraced the chapter as their own and continue to create opportunities for black students.

Now Hartman wishes to use his platform to create opportunities for others.

“I want to be able to provide for those that need opportunity,” stated Hartman.

As Jackson State welcomes the new members of the four fraternities, they prepare to make their presence known on campus.

Following their reveal, students can look forward to Greek Week, which includes multiple events hosted by different organizations.

Cameron Adams Editor-in-Chief

The 83rd Miss JSU Naomi Harris and the 6th Mister JSU Joshua Edwards, said farewell to the students

Photo by Monica McGhee

From left to right: 84th Miss JSU Candidates Laila Woodfork, Lauren Temple, Elisha Brown, 82nd Miss JSU Halle Coleman, 83rd Miss JSU Naomi Harris, 6th Mister JSU Joshua Edwards, 7th Mister JSU candidates Quandaveus Gilliam and Austin Rolfe.

Graphic by Monica McGhee

Photo (1) Miss JSU candidate Elisha Brown during the pageant. Photo (2) Miss JSU candidate Lauren Temple during the pageant. Photo (3) Miss JSU candidate Laila Woodfork during the pageant. Photo (4) Mister JSU candidate Quandaveus Gilliam during the pageant. Photo (5) Mister JSU candidate Austin Rolfe during the pageant. Photo (6) New inductees into Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. during the probate. Photo (7) New inductees into Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. during the probate. Photo (8) New inductees into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. during the probate. Photo (9) New inductees into Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. during the probate. Photos (10-11) New inductees congratulated by supporters.

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All Photos 1-11 taken by Monica McGhee

Women’s History Spotlight: Former Flash Editor Tiffany Edmondson

Joel Murchison Staff Writer

Before the month is out, The Blue & White Flash would like to honor one of its own former editors for Women’s History Month, Tiffany Edmondson.

Edmondson graduated in 2013 from Jackson State University with a bachelors in mass communications (aka journalism and media studies) with a concentration in broadcast production and a minor in political science.

During her time at JSU, she served as the editor-inchief of The Blue & White Flash and was instrumental in the success of the publication during a difficult. Edmondson was the editor when publications staff member Latasha Norman was killed in an act of domestic violence.

Many on the staff who knew and loved Norman, found it difficult to cover the story as it unfolded. Edmondson took the lead and produced a story that was picked up by other national publications.

Edmondson also obtained a coveted internship with the White House Correspondence Associates Program. This opportunity led to many others, including her current work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

While in Washington, Edmondson worked with the Washington Wizards NBA basketball team for seven seasons in game entertainment and production. She was the instant replay video editor. She also worked three seasons with the Washington Football NFL team.

For the last three years Edmondson, who is member of the Junior League of Washington, has added freelance production assistant to her resume, working on the set of reality shows filmed in D.C.

Edmondson studied mandarin Chinese at Jackson State and studied abroad with Jackson State’s China Initiatives. This paid off as she currently works abroad in China.

The Flash spoke to this alumnus on the rise.

The Flash : What does a true day in the life of your line of work looks like?

Edmondson: My job is more on the side of financial

management. I’ll give you a prime example of my day today. My role is the administrative officer of Foreign Agricultural Service for our China post for USDA. I am like the liaison between our offices in China and headquarters in Washington, D.C. There are only two people in the world who have my job, myself of course here in China and Geneva Sweden. Managing a budget and covering all aspects overseas throughout our range. The Flash : “The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.”

What does this quote mean to you?

Edmondson: Well for one, that quote speaks many volumes as influence is where

you combine all your trials, setbacks, and experiences to help advance the next person. Also, being able to get others to trust you while following you and their own path and to not go through those same setbacks. Because we can always learn from each other. I never want to be the only person with all the knowledge. I have a passion to spread the wealth of knowledge to others as that is influence.

The Flash : Please give us an example of how you helped coach or mentor someone. What improvements did you see in the person’s knowledge or skills?

Edmondson: Anytime a young person is around the age of graduating, I always ask the parents if I could talk to them. First, I always make

sure to feel kids out to get a better understanding of them and guide them to their goals. For instance, parents tend to want a certain thing or lifestyle for their children, while I ask the child what is it that they want to do? A majority of the time, they don’t know which is highly understandable.

Secondly, I then ask them what are some of the things they love doing, no matter the requirements or schooling.

Thirdly, I help them get a better understanding of what they want to do, as sometimes parents might not see the value in their dreams.

Lastly, I guide them in finding scholarships and internships to provide or pursue their dreams, while coaching and motivating them to just simply apply to things

as we tend to psych ourselves out of things for fear of the unknown and failure.

The Flash : What is your favorite adventure about working overseas in a foreign country?

Edmondson: Understanding the roles of diplomacy and the role of foreign service officers would be one. Before I got in, you would hear about diplomats and not know what they really do.

When you’re working in an embassy overseas you can pretty much experience any job you can imagine! From university level to economics and political science. The value of being a diplomat is being able to have range to cover anything overseas, This became the most eye-opening experience.

The Flash : What is your favorite childhood memory?

Edmondson: Writing mini commercials and stories.

The Flash : What inspires you to keep going?

Edmondson: I never want it to be about me. As you can ask Ms. Shannon Tatum (Student Publications Manager), I have been working in the government for years and I’m always sending back different programs and opportunities for students.

I’m always sharing information because a lot of times as alumni, we have an obligation to want better for our universities by sending money. Money is very imprtant but supporting our students with career and networking opportunities is as well.

Sometimes HBCUs and schools in the southern states lack resources and opportunities that are out there for students. Because a lot of fellowships, internships, scholarships, and opportunities are mainly targeted or directed to these Big 10 or Ivy League schools. We are in the south. We tend to receive this information last or not at all. I always make sure that I send back opportunities for young people to achieve their goals.

The Blue & White Flash congratulates Tiffany Edmondson on her achievements and know that she has more ahead of her.

Tik Tok ban, Tasha K, Brandy and Gov. Desantis top trending topics

Aaliyah Jones

Staff Writer

Desantis files controversial

HB 999 Florida Gov. Desantis proposed and filed HB999 that calls for the removal of all black and Latina Greek organizations from college campuses. The bill also proposes the removal of the courses, majors, and minors for Jewish studies, feminist theory, and gender studies and any centers and programs curated for black, Latina, Asian, Pacific Islander, and LGBTQIA+ students. The bill even points out tenured faculty in Florida who’s, if the bill is successfully passed, tenure eligibility will be placed under review by a new board of trustees appointed by Gov. Desantis.

This obviously created a large uproar, especially amongst all BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students attending higher education institutions in Florida, because this would mean forcing them to completely withdraw their existence from the campus community completely and give up all places for them to organize in peace. The real conversation starts when we start to think about how this could trigger similar changes in other states including, Mississippi.

Congress chews up TikTok

CEO Shou Chew TikTok CEO Shou Chew finally appeared before Congress. Many American users of TikTok heavily disagree with Congress and its plans to ban the popular

app in the US permanently. The reasons Congress members want to ban TikTok, which were addressed during the hearing, mainly fall under the categories of the app possibly being a threat to national security and the negative affect the app can have on children.

Chew was pelted with questions over and over again concerning the security of TikTok, what ties he has to China, and what the company does with the data collected. Rep. McMorris Rodgers said that TikTok is used as “a weapon by the Chinese Communist Party to spy on you,” during the hearing but did not pledge any tangible or legible proof to support his claim.

For clarification, Tiktok is based in Los Angeles, Calif. and Singapore while its parent company, the company that bought into TikTok, ByteDance, is based in China.

Though Chew from Singapore and does not have any business connection to China, Congress members seem to be under the impression that China can somehow pull political business strings through ByteDance to then force TikTok to relinquish all U.S. data they’ve collected. Chew says he has released data to China and has no plans off doing so in the future.

Tasha K loses appeal for defamation

The defamation lawsuit won by Belcalis Almanzar Cephus, aka Cardi B, against YouTube blogger Tasha K (LaTasha Kebe), was upheld after Kebe lost an

appeal. Tasha K was ordered to pay $4 million for defamation, according to Insider, after Cardi filed and won a lawsuit claiming that the blogger had created a hate campaign against her online through her audience and various forms of social platforms. One might say justice was served twice on the behalf of Cardi and her legal team. In fairness, Kebe made a series of videos on her YouTube channel in which she made various direct claims about Cardi’s marriage, motherhood status, and accusations that Cardi has abused hard drugs and contracted herpes. Well know it’s time to pay the piper Tasha K!

Descendants: The Rise of Red brings back Brandy We all remember the hit classic remake of Cinderella starring Brandy, Paolo Montalban, and the

great Whitney Houston that was originally aired in 1997. Well, the leading couple are coming back to reprise the roles as Cinderella and King Charming once again in the new “Descendants: The Rise of Red”. The movie is expected to air late 2023. Brandy fans and Descendants fans alike are on edge to see if the pair can showcase the old school Disney magic they once shared.

Disney brings Princess and the Frog to the screen Princess Tiana from “Princess and the Frog” will be gracing the screens in a new live action version. So many beautiful actresses and singers like Coco Jones and Ari Lenox have posted their audition tapes for the role as Princess Tiana, leaving fans shaking in anticipation and excitement as to who will land the role.

There has also been a flip-side to the announcement of the role being up for discussion. Sadly, people have been creating terribly closed-minded discourse around who should play Princess Tiana as well as leaving colorist comments under posts discussing the role. Some think Tiana would be better played by lighter skinned actresses like Zendaya while others point out the purpose of staying true to the character design and choosing a dark skinned young woman to play the role since there is a plethora of women who can easily fill the role. There has even been slight discourse on Twitter around choosing non-black men like Timothy Chalamet to play Prince Naveen.

The views expressed in this trending topics column are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Graphic by Tatyana Ross

Photo provided by Tiffany Edmondson

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Teams battle for Elite Eight in March Madness matchups

March Madness for Men and Women has begun.

Teams are on the cusp of an Elite Eight appearance as the Sweet Sixteen is underway.

With March Madness being a win-or-go-home game, teams are putting their all into becoming NCAA Champions.

The men’s basketball teams that are in the Sweet Sixteen are Texas, Alabama, Houston, Princeton, San Diego State, Miami, Xavier, Creighton, Florida Atlantic, Tennessee, Arkansas, UConn, Gonzaga, UCLA, Kansas State, and Michigan State.

All of these teams are in the top 10 except for Princeton, who had a stunning performance against a top 10 Missouri.

The women’s basketball teams that are in the Sweet Sixteen are UConn, Ohio State, Iowa, Colorado, LSU, Ole Miss, Louisville, Virginia Tech,

Utah, Notre Dame, Maryland, Villanova, Miami, UCLA, and South Carolina.

Recently March Madness has lived up to its hype with close games and unexpected blowouts.

The hype is felt by Jackson State University students as well.

Chris Manning, a senior, civil engineering major from Canton, Miss., had some words to express his emotions.

“March Madness to me is what brings excitement to college basketball. Especially when you add to the suspense from brackets,” Manning stated. “You never know who’s going to win and that’s why it’s madness.”

A men’s game that caught the viewer’s attention was the Princeton versus Missouri game.

With Missouri being a top 10 team, many critics and viewers thought this would be the team that would advance.

In March Madness fashion, Princeton was able to overcome

these opinions and come out on top in a 78 to 68 win. Princeton showcased a solid performance in this matchup.

The Missouri Tigers were dominated in every stat category against Missouri. The only category that wasn’t dominated by Princeton was in steals and free throw percentage.

This was a surprise to many that Missouri was not able to dominate.

All the games followed suit and a majority of them were nailbiters, to say the least.

Another game that recently had people on the edge of their seats was the Gonzaga versus UCLA game. Gonzaga is known as a highcaliber basketball team and they tend to push out the talent of a high caliber.

In a stunning win against UCLA, the Gonzaga Bulldogs infuriated many Bruins fans with a walk off three. A heroic effort was made by Julian Strawther, who was able to drain the game wining 3.

Even with his performance, potential NBA prospect Drew Timme, had an astonishing performance in this crucial game for title contention. Timme had 36 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 assists.

These were two of the three people who scored on the team while two other players went scoreless for the Bulldogs.

Devin May, a health, physical education, and recreation major from East St. Louis, Mo., is enthralled with excitement for these games.

May stated, “These are some of the best games we will see in our lives.”

The women’s games were not short of intensity either.

The women’s Sweet Sixteen consisted of blowouts and nailbiters. Miami versus Indiana was one of those nailbiters.

The score of the game was 68 to 70 Miami. Indiana is the #1 seed and Miami is the #9 seed.

With this loss, the Hoosiers lose another chance at getting a banner.

A blowout game that happened was the Louisiana State University Tigers vs Michigan Wolverines. The final score was 66-42 Tigers.

There were multiple people with double digits in this battle including their leading LSU scorer Angel Reese contributed 25 points, 24 rebounds, and 4 assists.

The Wolverines were able to have people score in the double digits but it didn’t really resonate on the scoreboard.

Some people have predictions for who they feel who will meet in the championship.

Samuel Hakim, Ph.D., from Clemson University feels two specific team will meet each other.

“I see Kansas State emerging and meeting Gonzaga in the finals,” said Hakim.

March Madness is nearing an end and competition is getting harder. Players are putting their best foot forward to make their way to the Final Four.

Lady Tigers softball team defeats Southern University Jaguars

The Lady Tigers softball team took home a major win after defeating the Southern University Jaguars on March 22. With a score of 6-1, the Tigers played a great game with great defense. This win comes after a devasting lost at during the February 19 game with an ending score of 3-5.

The team is having a winning season, with 15 loses and 17 wins. Their team leader, Marissa Medina, has a batting average of .435, followed closely by Jace Jackson at .333, and Isabel Gusman averaging at .328.

Monica Serrano, a senior finance major from Pacoima, Calif., said this win gave the team the confidence

they needed to face Bethune Cookman in their SWAC Championship game that took place March 24. “The confidence that we’re getting for this win will help us push for the win against Bethune,” Serrano said. “This is a crucial game.”

Serrano had this to say about her game performance.

“I think I started off well but I didn’t end how I wanted too,” Serrano said.

She was one of the game leaders- hitting a double and was up to bat three times.

Serrano added, “I just have to stay focused and make sure that I’m always giving what I need to give to my time.”

She was very proud of her team’s performance.

“Everybody was up. The team was up. Everybody did

what they needed to do,” said Serrano.

Samiyaah Huckabee, a junior computer science major from Atlanta, Ga., was very excited about the win.

“I feel great. Great win. Good strong win. I saw the ball really well today with hitting and defense,” said Huckabee. “I was calm, so it was better than usual.”

Huckabee hit an impressive double in the 4th inning, bringing home Rachel Barker and bringing the score to 5-0.

Even though Huckabee feels that she made many errors in the game, she still feels her team performance was outstanding.

“Team performance was probably the best it’s ever been this season,” she said. “I hope that we keep that going,

everyone was hitting.”

“Were actually coming off a streak,” she exclaimedHuckabee is referring to the three game winning streak that ladies had. They defeated Mississippi Valley three times in their previous SWAC championship. Now a fourgame winning streak after defeating the Jaguars.

After seeing her team’s energy, Huckabee was very confident they’d be taking home a win.

“Towards the end of the game, even if they came with a harder fight, I think we still would’ve come out on top,” Huckabee said.

Rachel Barker, a senior professional interdisciplinary studies major from Saskatoon, Canada is glad they won. Although she felt her

performance was good, she felt she could’ve had a better eye for inside pitches.

When asked if she expected to win she said the team always does. “I mean, we always go into the game expecting to win. That’s the goal,” Barker stated. “But we did lose to them last time so we went into the game with revenge on our minds and a chip on our shoulders.”

Unfortunately, the Tigers did not take home the SWAC title against BethuneCookman. Ending game one with a 2-3 score and game three with 4-6. However, they did win game two, with a score of 5-4.

The Tigers have a home game this on March the 31 against Alabama A&M University starting at 5 p.m.

Matthew Adams

Managing Editor

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Jai’den Smith Variety Editor