The Blue & White Flash November 10, 2022

DJMS covers midterm election results

Jackson Staff Writer

The Jackson State University Department of Journalism and Media Studies (DJMS) broadcasted live coverage of the 2022 Midterm Elections on Oct. 8, 2022.

Anchored by DJMS Department Chair Elayne H. Anthony, the live broadcast provided up-to-date information and results for various Mississippi races, such as U.S. House of Representatives, Circuit Court Judge, Circuit Court Judge, and more.

Student activists, political experts and analysts served as guests interviewed to shed light on the different races and the importance of voting.

“The importance of JMS being involved in election night is to show our students about election coverage and give them the experience of seeing what election coverage is all about,” said Anthony. “Students were integrated into coverage through classroom assignments MOS reports and being downtown at the Hinds County Elections office.”

Party At the Polls, an event centered around the election was also showcased. Many students from organizations such as the Student Government Association (SGA), Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, the Political Science Club, and more came out to spread awareness and encourage other students to exercise their right to vote in this year’s midterm election in a grave attempt to increase voter turnout at the precinct.

DJMS Professor Ashley Norwood, executive producer of the live broadcast, shared her thoughts on the importance of the department’s coverage of Midterm Elections.

“This is really important because one, it’s important that as citizens, we are aware of the voting process, we’re informed about elections, where to vote, and who we are voting for. It’s important that our students are understanding the importance of voting in all elections and also

the process of how to vote,” said Norwood.

Students from DJMS were given the opportunity to contribute to the preproduction of the broadcast. Norwood gave insight on how students were integrated in the production process.

“We’ve had our students helping out with social media and marketing strategies, so we can get the word out about it. We’ve had our students involved in content as well. We’ve sent students to get one-on-one interviews with student leaders about voting,” Norwood said.

“We even have some of our grad students here today that are a part of this live production process. Whether that is receiving our guests or production assistance. We’ve got them scattered all over.”

Some of the students on site were able to talk about

their experience in making the broadcast happen and how the overall project affects their perspective on voting.

Martavious Parks, a senior journalism media studies major from Jackson, Miss., said he has learned a lot working behind the scenes and he was grateful for such an opportunity.

“Working behind the scenes was very informative. I learned a lot of things that I didn’t know, so I thank Professor (Don)Spann for that,” Parks said. “When it comes to voting, growing up, I was always told it was important to vote, whether it was presidential, congressional or even just local. This is about exercising our right, because people before didn’t have the chance to vote. So, I’ve always tried to do that.”

Gabrielle Moore, a senior journalism media studies major from Aberdeen, Miss., said she also enjoyed working behind the

scenes on the election coverage.

“Just seeing how all that works was a really great experience. I’ve always felt that voting is extremely important,” Moore said. “Being able to be in this major and experiencing what I’ve experienced, it just let me know that voting is even more important than I thought it was.”

Executive Ph.D. Program Professor Hilliard Lackey, Ph.D., also weighed in on the importance of college students participating in the political process.

“Stated or unstated the demographic transition (minorities becoming the majority) is the utmost consideration of American Democracy/American politics at this point. The engine of history is the struggle between the haves and the have nots!” Therefore, the historical have nots in America since 1619 have

been African-Americans,” said Lackey. “Nowadays, other people of color have been added as an afterthought. Thus, AfricanAmericans, Native Americans, Latinos, Asians, Pacific Islanders, and will numerically surpass European Americans within this half century perhaps as early as 2050. The omnipresence of this impending flipflop is an omnipresent undercurrent to American voting strategies.

He added, “The ‘haves’ are hard pressed to find ways to hold on to their political power. The ‘have nots’ are eager to turn the tide. Political party labels seem to identify with haves (Republicans) and have nots (Democrats) but this too shall change as the Demographic Transition ensues. Race is more than likely to take precedence over party eventually.

Lackey also stated that those trying to stop the political power of the minority are afraid of young voters.

“Meanwhile, young voters are feared because there is evidence they tend to vote along the lines of ‘idealism’ rather than ‘protectivism’. Youthful voters are fresh out of the classroom or still in the classroom where democracy is an idealism. Government by the people, of the people and for the people fits their fancy,” said Lackey, who stated that admitting the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to statehood, for example, seems appropriate.

Lackey said, “Denying them the right to become states based on the color of their skin seems unAmerican. Therefore, the vote of the 18-25 cohort is threatening to conservatives wishing to maintain the status quo. Liberals fear their vote as well when it comes to rights based on sexual preferences, gender equity, racial equality, foreign aid to NonNATO countries, and yes Deion Sanders (Coach Prime of Jackson State University) when it comes to HBCUs in FBS Bowl Games.”

For viewers who have missed the live show, there is an online archive you can watch right now on YouTube on the JSU Department of Journalism and Media Studies channel.

Arsonist targets West Jackson community including Jackson State

Tatyana Ross Editor-in-Chief

Jackson State University students and employees awoke to the news that seven fires had been intentionally set in the surrounding community, including one at the JSU baseball field.

The fires were mysteriously set on eve of the important midterm elections.

According to WLBT News, the suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Devin McLaurin. Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones said McLaurin was arrested in Terry, Miss., after a tip. McLaurin is expected to be transferred to the Jackson Police Department for further questioning with representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigations in attendance to see if any hate crimes were committed.

JSU students had this to say about the fires.

Alfred Allen, a freshman biology/pre-medicine major from Milwaukee, Wis. said that he believes the arson incidents were alarming to students and motivated by malice.

“More often, numerous fires can point towards arson in which malcontent is the motive.

This should be top priority for the Jackson Police Department (JPD),” said Allen.

Henry Pegues also feels that these incidents should be priority for JPD.

“They need to investigate where this person came from and also find ways to prevent this from happening again,” said Pegues, a junior journalism and media studies major from Clinton, Miss.

Stanley Powell, a freshman theatre major from Crystal Springs, Miss., was surprised by the incidents.

“I kind of feel like it’s really weird. Like I wouldn’t expect someone to burn down several areas and so this really caught me off guard with the recent places being set on fire,” said Powell.

The seven locations set on fire included:

• Greater Bethlehem Temple

• Epiphany Church

• JSU Baseball Field

• Gas Station on Terry Road

• Central Street and Dalton

• 1101 Pascagoula Street

•Terry Road and Cherry Street

Public Safety at Jackson State released the following alert to students and employees via email on Nov. 8. It read in part:

The Department of Public

Safety is working with local and state law enforcement and fire officials to solve the arsons which took place this morning on and around the JSU campus. A person of interest has been identified.

Crime Alerts and updates are posted in an effort to make the JSU community aware of any situation that has posed a potential threat to the safety and well-being of those who live, work, study and visit the campus.

By keeping you aware of

crimes occurring in your community, JSU Department of Public Safety hope to encourage you to continue being actively involved in crimeprevention and reporting.

Students at Jackson State University and residents of the West Jackson community are eager to find out the motivation for the rash of arson incidents.

“I feel that’s it goes to show that people really don’t care about the things they do or the people it will affect,” said Da’Maje

Russell, a freshman chemistry major from Memphis, Tenn.

Brylyia Baptiste, a junior early childhood education major from New Orleans, La., was concerned about the well-being of herself and her peers.

“Personally, because of the incidents around our school, this makes me worry about not only my safety but other students as well.”

Tatyana Ross and Alivia Welch contributed to this article.

Photo by Monica McGhee

Antonio

Members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. during the Stroll to the Polls event.

Photo of Epiphany Church, one of the arson locations.

Editorial Staff

SHANNON

ALIVIA

TATYANA

Smaller elections matter just as much as presidential elections

Mississippi elections.

Jackson State added to the experience with a march to the polls held on the 2nd Floor of the Student Center. Unfortunately, I was not able to participate in the march but it was cool to see.

Up until now I was sending my absentee ballot back to my hometown Montgomery, Ala. I cannot say that I am particularly shocked by the results of midterm elections on Nov. 8, 2022.

Personally, I do not think enough people around my age group understand the importance of voting in midterm elections. I think we put off smaller elections like the midterms and only focus on the presidential election.

In a previous issue of The Flash there were several students that were unaware of the elections and the

particular policies we were voting for.

So, I admit I did not have a lot of faith for my fellow peers on election day.

However, they proved me wrong, according to Good Morning America, Generation Z had a large turnout at the polls that could possibly be linked to the abortion ban.

I have been registered to vote since the day I turned 18 years old and prior to that going to the polls every election with my mother is a core memory for me. She would always vote after school so that me and my younger sister could go with her.

The first time she ever took me to the polls I thought she was taking a test because of the way voting partitions were set up. Initially, she thought it was funny but she explained

to me what it meant and I was so amazed.

She never let me downplay the rights that our ancestors fought so many years for.

My mother told me growing up that to always exercise the right to vote in midterm elections. I did not know what she meant then but I know now. The midterm elections are where we find out which party will gain control of the US Senate and the House of Representatives. From personal observations the party that acquired the most seats in the midterm elections has control of the presidency.

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

Tatyana Ross Editor-in-Chief

Compiled by: Shakell James

Malik Alexander Freshman Journalism & Media Studies Dallas, Texas

“Thanksgiving is about thanking the Lord, which people tend to stray away from.”

Morgan Graves Sophomore Journalism & Media Studies Indianapolis, Ind.

“I most look forward to going home and visiting with family and friends.”

Charles Jones

Sophomore Music Education Atlanta, Ga.

“Being

away at college makes going home and visiting family

more important.”

Dashuan Tillman Freshman Business Admin. St. Louis, Mo.

“I am very excited about traveling during the fall break.”

Madison Tombs Freshman Journalism & Media Studies Memphis, Tenn.

“I look forward to sleeping because school can take on toll on you.”

Chloe Jergan Senior Chemistry/Pre-Med Little Rock, Ark.

“I

look forward to spending quality time with

my

family during the holiday season.”

Amiyah Banks Freshman Criminal Justice Lancaster, Calif.

“Everything about fall is great. The quality time, food and the weather are the things I look forward the most.”

Tyler Powe Freshman Business Admin. Jackson, Miss.

“I plan to use the fall break to study so that I can achieve my future goals.”

Jared Sullivan Junior Criminal Justice Chicago, Ill.

“Stepping out of your comfort zone while also having fun is the best way to spend a break.”

Roc’cheztar Moore Freshman Music Technology Kansas City, Mo.

“I am looking forward to my momma’s sweet potato pie.”

Alikiah Parker Freshman Biology/Pre-Med Atlanta, Ga.

“The scenery is the best part of fall. The leaves are drastically flowing and multicolored.”

“What do you look forward to the most during the fall holiday season?”

It was a joy to see so many students on campus

ready to vote. I registered to vote on Jackson State’s campus a few years ago in 2017 when I came in as a freshman but this is my first time taking part in the

Makayla Jackson freshman Marketing Atlanta, Ga.

look forward to sleeping and having no school. This is my favorite part of the fall break.”

Graphic by Tatyana Ross

COMMENTARY

WLBT anchor Barbie Bassett apologizes for offensive comments

Antonio Jackson Staff Writer

This past weekend, WLBT news anchor, Barbie Bassett, made an offensive comment on air towards fellow news anchor, Carmen Poe. Many viewers felt Bassett’s comments were offensive to both Poe and the black community.

Poe was on sight during the ESPN College Gameday event at Mississippi Veteran’s Memorial stadium when Bassett made a comment that gained a lot of attention.

On air she stated, “Girl, sis, I know you well enough to know that those guys working behind you, they probably know who the celebrity Gameday figure is… I know your mother or your ‘grandmammy’ has got some type of recipe that you could whip up.”

The terms “girl” and “sis” in certain contexts are a part of the AAVE or African-American Vernacular English. AAVE is a wide vocabulary of terms and phrases that are known to be created by the black community going back several years. These terms are primarily used by African-Americans so when a person from another ethnicity uses them, it typically comes off as disingenuous and belittling.

According to MerriamWebster.com, the origin of the word mammy stems from a disparaging reference to a black woman that cared for white children during slavery. Although these women were real people, the term mammy has since gone on to be used as a slur, caricature and overall derogatory term.

Students at Jackson State University voiced their opinion on what Bassett said during the Gameday broadcast. Most of them felt that it was very inappropriate for her to make comments of that sort.

Jaquan Nelson, a senior biology/pre-physical therapy major form Woodville, Miss., felt Bassett’s comments were distasteful and untimely.

“I feel like it’s a time and place for stuff like that. In this situation, that wasn’t the time and place, due to the audience she was speaking to. Plus, she is around black news anchors. I’m not sure if that’s her background or what she is accustomed to, but saying that on television is unnecessary,” stated Nelson.

Darnell Hall, Jr., a freshman psychology major from New Orleans, La., shared similar sentiments about the controversy. Expressing that Bassett should be mindful of who watches the broadcast.

“I feel like it was very insensitive to say something like that. I get that we have a freedom of speech in this country, but knowing the crowd that you’re around, you should watch what you say. You never know who you could offend,” Hall said.

Journalism and Media Studies Professor Ashley Norwood, shared her thoughts on the importance of how careful journalists should be and also commended WLBT and Bassett for their responses following the broadcast.

Norwood stated, “It is absolutely important to be mindful of your words as a media practitioner. Barbie Bassett, like other anchors, are seen as public

figures, people of influence and to some even role models. People tune in to your coverage trusting your storytelling and judgement. While it’s also meaningful to have personality on air, those unscripted moments can lead you down a road of regret. Personality and casual conversation are what humanizes you and connects you to your viewer, audience and communities. But choose your words wisely.

Norwood added, “People may forgive what you say but they’ll never forget how you made them feel. I do appreciate WLBT for

responding quickly and for issuing her apology. We as journalists must take accountability for our words and that is exactly what she did.”

Bassett has since apologized to Poe and the WLBT audience for her insensitivity, promising to take the time to learn from her mistake and to better understand the history of the people. On air, she shared the following statement.

“Last Friday on our newscast ‘Today at 11’, I used a term that was offensive to many in our audience and to my coworkers

here at WLBT. Though not intentional, I now understand how my comment was both insensitive and hurtful. I have apologized to Carmen Poe. Now, I would like to apologize to you. That is not the heart of who I am. And for that, I humbly ask for your forgiveness, and I apologize to everyone I have offended. I will learn from this and participate in training so I can better understand our history and our people. I can’t mend the hurt my comment caused. I pray you’ll forgive me and that you’ll extend grace through this awful mistake.”

College of Education uses grant funds to reopen Kids Kollege

Anthony Howard JSU Public Relations

Jackson State University’s College of Education and Human Development (COEHD) received a $79,200 contract grant from the Jackson Public School District’s Office of Innovative Strategies in September. The funds will be used to reopen the COEHD’s Kids Kollege after-school program and is part of a district-wide initiative to provide outof-school time and experiences for all JPS scholars.

“The Kids College after-school program at JSU is an essential resource for school-aged children, encouraging safety, fostering connections, preventing juvenile crime, and improving academic performance,” said Jerri Haynes, Ed.D., dean of the COEHD. “Our goal is to create positive experiences for these students to excel in their schools and communities.”

The after-school program paused in March 2020 during the height of Covid-19. After a two-year hiatus, the program relaunched in October.

Tierra Flowers, Ed.D., assistant professor of early childhood education, is the former director of Kids Kollege and was tasked with reviving the program. The Kids Kollege ExSEL @ JSU After School initiative currently serves 60 first through third-grade students from Isable Elementary School.

“One of the goals of the College of Education is to provide service within an urban learning community, and Kids Kollege is one of the service components where we’re providing support to the community,” Flowers said.

She further explained that the initiative was also an excellent opportunity to give teacher candidates field experience by working with the program as a

volunteer or staff member. Another goal of the after-school program is to decrease learning barriers and help serve as a recruitment tool for future JSU tigers.

The COEHD staff and volunteers will provide students with academic and homework assistance, reading tutorial, social-emotional learning activities (SEL), and physical recreation.

SEL is a process in which people

acquire and apply the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to develop healthy identities, manage emotions, and achieve personal and collective goals.

Student participants will also learn to empathize with others, establish and maintain supportive relationships, and make responsible and caring decisions.

All practices and activities are based on the Mississippi Department of Education’s SEL standards.

Tutoring sessions will be established through skill-check forms completed by the student’s school highlighting deficit areas as identified by the student’s diagnostic assessment reports.

The after-school students will also experience parent workshops, campus tours, and field trips.

“With an uptick in violent crimes in the city of Jackson, it is essential that healthy and productive social and emotional learning activities are fostered and nurtured in children as a mechanism to support positive interactions among peers and self-actualization skills yielding higher achievement levels,” Flowers explained.

During the program’s first week, Haynes read “Imani’s Crown” to the elementary-aged students. Reading to the youth is something the dean said she had not done in over a decade. Haynes former student Nadine Joseph authored the book.

“It was exciting to see their faces anticipating what’s going to happen next, and I think that’s the thing they need to get them engaged and involved in listening,” she shared. “When you are teaching, it’s almost like you’re performing because if your students are engaged, that means they’re interested in what you’re doing.”

COEHD administrators anticipate that the after-school program will continue to expand and service more schools and students in the Jackson community.

Jackson State first-time freshman enrollement increases for Fall 2022

the world, and we’re ready to help them do just that.”

Jackson State University’s preliminary first-time freshmen enrollment increased to 1,155 students in Fall 2022 compared to 794 students in Fall 2021. This marks a near doubling of the cohort size since its Fall 2020 class of 623 students.

Shomari Johnson, a Ph.D. student at JSU, encouraged his niece, Skye Johsnon, to attend. Skye described the University’s public health program as one of the best. (Photo by William Kelly, III/JSU)

Shomari Johnson, a Ph.D. student at JSU, encouraged his niece, Skye Johnson, a freshman, to attend. Skye described the University’s public health program as one of the best.

“It’s an exciting time to become a Jackson State University student, and we’re happy to see that the size of our freshmen class is on the rise,” said

and brightest from across the country. If you spend time with these students, it’s obvious that they are determined to change

The University credits the new Tiger Ready Scholarship program for assisting students with financial support to help make ends meet. The onetime award of up to $1,000 was awarded to incoming freshmen who did not receive other scholarships or grants.

“We made a conscious effort to hold Jackson State’s tuition flat over the past three years in order to keep access to our highquality education as affordable as possible,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management Josiah Sampson, III. “As a result, our incoming students responded favorably and decided to make JSU their home away from home. We look forward to training them to make their dreams for their future careers a reality.”

The university’s current preliminary enrollment is 6,906 and represents a reduction of 174 students from last year’s

preliminary figure of 7,080. The reduction reflects the impact of the Jackson water crisis, which forced the administration to postpone its freshmen’ movein dates just days before the first arrivals. Throughout the system, Fall 2022 enrollment is 75,755, compared to 76,510 students enrolled in Fall 2021, representing a 1 percent decrease. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, undergraduate enrollment fell by 1.6 percent at public four-year institutions when comparing Fall 2022 enrollment and Fall 2021 enrollment.

“It’s always tough to lose even one student, especially when the extenuating circumstances of the city’s water infrastructure are beyond our control. However, this is just a minor setback, and we believe that the JSU experience will continue to encourage savvy students to give our top-tier programs a shot,” said Sampson.

President Thomas K. Hudson.

“I’d like to thank the Division of Enrollment Management for its efforts to recruit the best

WLBT anchor Barbie Bassett during apology for offensive comments.

Google Image

Shomari Johnson, a Ph.D. student encouraged his niece, Skye Johnson to attend JSU

Photo by William H. Kelly, III

Dr. Jerri Haynes energetically reads Imani’s Crown to Kids Kollege students.

Photo by William H. Kelly, III

Variety Editor Aria Brent shares her family story with diabetes

Aria Brent Variety Editor

November has many health emphases including Diabetes Awareness and Family Stories month. This provides a perfect opportunity to share my personal experience in recognition of both occasions.

My father and I have always been two peas in a pod. We have the same sense of humor, that causes us to let out the same bodacious laugh. The apple truly hasn’t fallen far from the tree with the two of us.

We’re alike in so many ways that it only makes sense that out of his four children, I’d be the one to be diagnosed with diabetes.

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that occurs due to the amount of glucose in one’s bloodstream. If your body isn’t producing enough insulin, the sugar in your body isn’t being properly absorbed or utilized; thus it stays in the bloodstream and causes elevated blood sugar. There are two types of diabetes. One you’re born with and the other you can develop over time.

I was diagnosed the year after he received a kidney transplant. He was on the move and feeling better than ever. He was working out and eating right. Truly taking advantage of the whole “second chance at life” thing. I had just wrapped up a very full freshman year of high school and was excited to enjoy my summer. I had a gang of friends and an entire schedule of events planned for the next 10 weeks.

In my mind, 15 was too young. I couldn’t even drive yet, how was I supposed to manage my blood sugar? My father apologized as he realized that his genetics played a role in my declining health.

“Having grown up with both of my parents being diabetic, I was in denial when I initially got diagnosed with diabetes,” said my father Luis Brent, a kidney recipient from Columbus, Ohio.

He was diagnosed with diabetes in his mid 20’s and didn’t take the effects of it seriously until his 40’s. First he had complications with his vision as a result of poorly managing his disease. As time went on though, his kidneys failed.

I remember seeing my father as his kidneys failed. He was swollen, tired and unlively. I had never known him to be like this. He was always so animated and engaging. I knew something was wrong when tying his shoes became a chore.

These are the same symptoms I feel when my blood sugar is out of whack. In most cases it runs

too high but occasionally when it runs too low, I find myself sluggish and visibly ill. Much like my father, I have a hard time taking my illness serious. Despite seeing him struggle with maintaining his health, I too have found my youth to be an excuse to disregard my health.

My father said when he was first diagnosed, it felt as though limitations were being put on him. Being young and free doesn’t exactly correlate with a strict, low-carb diet.

“All I heard in my head was them telling me what I can’t have,” said Luis Brent.

I’ve also shared this sentiment before.

Never having got the chance to meet either of my father’s parents, all I have is stories and pictures to remember them by. Both of them were diabetic and didn’t live especially long lives.

My grandmother died from a heart attack and my grandfather died from other diabetes related complications.

The longer I live, the more I hear just how much I mimic them. I seem to have gained my grandmother’s love for life and my grandfather’s love of food. This seems to be much more than coincidental to me.

Perhaps after years of hearing about them and what they were like, I subconsciously took on some of their best traits. Or perhaps it’s genetics. It could very well be the same gene that has given me an insulin deficiency that has allowed me to embody them.

According to the American Association of Diabetes, type 2 diabetes is oftentimes related to your family history.

For a while, I was resentful of my genes. Every time I had

to poke my finger, get up to take my medication or watch what I ate, I was angry. It felt unfair. I remember people asking me, “You’re so young, what happened?” as if me being diabetic was the result of something I had done wrong.

Having to explain to people that I had the average American diet but I just had really strong genes was hard. People looked at me with pity and slight disgust. The fact that I was being judged was so obvious and I hated it.

I thought that if I ignored it, everyone else would as well and then it would just magically go away, but that’s not how it works.

It’s been seven years since my father had his kidney transplant and six years since I got diagnosed with diabetes. Nothing has gotten easier for either of us. We have milkshake dates knowing neither of us need

them, we still share that same laugh that can fill a room. But most importantly, we hold each other accountable.

I never imagined that diabetes would become something that would get passed down to me. I had family heirlooms and dividends in mind when I thought about what my grandparents would have left for me.

“Diabetes isn’t a death sentence. Addressing the mindset that it’s a restriction and changing the way we view it will help a lot of people,” my dad explained.

Take some this November to look into your lineage. Whether it be for health purposes, to reminisce on your loved ones or for a better understanding of your family history. Learn the importance of what’s flowing through your blood.

Warm up with this delicious white chicken chili recipe by Aria

Aria Brent Variety Editor

The weather has reached below 50 degrees and fallen leaves are covering the ground. With only two weeks until Thanksgiving, it’s official that Fall is here. Everyone loves pumpkin spice during this time of year but if you’re looking for something that will warm you up and be sure to leave you wanting seconds, try out my white chicken chili recipe!

This recipe has spicy, savory and creamy flavors that will make you wonder why you haven’t tried this variation of chili earlier. There are many versions of this delicious soup, some of which include corn. Although mine doesn’t include corn, feel free to add some to yours for a flavor profile that will remind you of Mexican street corn. Consider making this for your next big game day or Fall bonfire. Whether you decide to eat it with cornbread, tortilla chips or simply by itself, this recipe is super easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

White Chicken Chili

Serving: 1 bowl Makes 10 servings

One entire white onion- diced 2- 4oz cans of green chiles 1- 4oz can of diced jalapeños 1 spoonful of minced garlic 1 lime

Start off by cooking down both cans of green chilies, your diced jalapenos, minced garlic and white onion. Cook them on a medium temperature in an oiled pot until the vegetables become aromatic. Halfway through the vegetable cooking, squeeze the juice of one lime in the pot.

Then begin seasoning your chicken breast with all of the seasonings listed above. There is no specific set of measurements for this part of the recipe, add as little or as much as you like. Then add your chicken to the pot with your vegetables and begin to cook them off.

Do this for about 10 minutes on each side, while periodically checking on them. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken breast. Once your chicken is done, set it aside.

You then want to add in one container of chicken broth and both cans of cannellini beans. At this time add in all of your measured seasonings. Let the mixture boil, and marry itself. As this happens, begin to shred your chicken.

Once your mixture is boiling, add your chicken back in and add in both bricks of cream cheese. As you add in the cream cheese, be sure to constantly stir your soup so that the cream cheese doesn’t curdle and the soup doesn’t separate.

Taste your soup at this point

to see if anything needs to be added in and to assure it tastes how you’d like it to. If your soup tastes how you’d like it to, go ahead and add in your Monterey jack cheese. Once again, be sure to stir your soup as you do this, so that the cheese doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot and burn.

You can let your soup cook down on a low temperature for as long as you’d like. Now, all that’s left to do is, enjoy!

Try garnishing your bowl of soup with some freshly chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream, and lime to truly enjoy the spicy, southwest flavors of this chili.

Photo by Aria Brent

Photo provided by Aria Brent

White chicken chili cooked by Aria Brent.

Flash variety editor Aria Brent shares her family story with diabetes. L-R) Aria Brent and Luis Brent.

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Tigers defeat Grambling in soccer championship matchup

Sydni Wilson was also named SWAC’s Defensive Player of the Year. Wilson’s defensive efforts played a key factor in the Tigers’ defense that only allowed two goals in conference action. JSU’s defense shutout six straight conference opponents, including seven shutouts in nine SWAC matchups. Wilson reflected on what winning the award meant to her as a graduating senior.

“I feel very honored to be chosen as the Defensive Player of the Year. It’s a surreal feeling to be voted across the SWAC as one of the best defenders in the conference,” stated Wilson. “As a senior, it’s a nice way to be rewarded for your efforts on the pitch.” Despite her gratitude for receiving the award, she claimed that it could not be done without her teammates.

“I was able to be recognized because of my team’s overall effort. I was just a byproduct of a bigger effort coming from my teammates to push us all to our very best.”

The team was selected to face #1 Alabama in the 2022 NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament.

Wilson said that the team’s goal is simply to go out and dominate.

“We are going there to compete and end seasons. We aren’t going out there for a participation trophy because we earned the right to be there just like every team,” Wilson said.

The Tigers intend to send a message to the NCAA, by showing others that HBCUs are very deserving of a chance to prove themselves.

Britney Taplin, a junior marketing major from Byram, Miss., was ecstatic with the success of the soccer team and the message they wanted to send.

“I am proud of the soccer team and what they are doing for HBCUs. I wish them the best of luck throughout the tournament.”

Cameron Adams Sports Editor

Jackson State University’s Women’s soccer team capped off their dominant 2022 season as champions of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

On Nov. 6, the Lady Tigers were crowned the 2022 SWAC champions after going into overtime against Grambling State University.

At the end of the regular season, the 2022 SWAC

Postseason Honors ceremony was held in Houston, Texas on Nov. 2.

After leading the Tigers to a 7-1-1 conference record, head coach, Dr. Theodore Flogaites was named SWAC Soccer Coach of the Year. Coach Flogaites has now earned this award in three separate conferences.

Sophomore Tionna Taylor was crowned SWAC Goalkeeper of the Year thanks to her tremendous effort at stopping the ball. She has only allowed one goal in nine

conference matches. She also holds the number one spot in the conference for goalsagainst average (1-11).

Jackson State had three members selected for All SWAC First Team honors. Defender Ayanna Pinder, midfielder Sage Margruder, and Tionna Taylor were all met with First Team accolades.

Defender Sydni Wilson, forward Annalise Brunson and midfielder Chantae Blackwood were credited with All-SWAC Second Team honors.

The team’s chemistry was on full display at the celebration where the entire team reminded the team, “Who is SWAC”, with several chants.

With the SWAC tournament in their rearview mirror, the Tigers look to conquer the 2022 NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament.

The Tigers tuned in to the NCAA soccer selection show as they hosted a watch party on Nov. 7 to see where they would land on the bracket.

Lorlicia Wilson, a junior healthcare administration major from Terry, Miss., showed extreme support for the soccer team.

“I am so happy for them. I am glad that they have been successful in their journey and continue to grow.”

With the growing success of the soccer team, the Tigers look forward to making history not only for Jackson State, but for HBCUs in general.

The 2022 SWAC Champions will take on the Alabama Crimson Tide on Nov. 11 at 7p.m. EST in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Jackson State reveals addition of Esports league team

Tatyana Ross Editor-in-Chief

Jackson State University is in the process of creating an Esports team to compete in the HBCU Esports league with faculty sponsor and coach, Nathan Towery, Ph.D.

To further aid Towery and other students interested in joining the team, the Innovation Center has invested in creating a facility to have PCs and consoles set up in the H.T. Sampson Library on the second floor.

Jackson State is viewing Esports as a potential recruiting tool for incoming students that are interested in playing competitive games professionally.

The team roster is still in process because everything has not been confirmed. Towery said they are still chartering with the university to make it official.

The club has hosted a couple of tournaments to build interest up for students to join.

Towery said there were roughly 20 students who showed up to play 2K and Madden.

Towery also stated that roster sizes vary when it comes to competitive gaming.

“Apex Legends is going to have four slots, Overwatch is going to have five slots, and 2K and Madden are going to have two slots for each,” Towery said. “Let’s say a game like Call of Duty, you’ll have five members of a team compete against another team with five members from another school, the goal is to win against the other team just like any other sport.”

He views Esports the same as he would view any other competitive sport like basketball, football, or soccer.

Towery said he played in a few different tournaments growing up but he has been streaming on Twitch since 2019.

However, this is his first time being a coach and helping run a program, but he said he is an active member in the Esports community and now he wants to provide that opportunity for the students.

Towery and Jackson State’s ultimate goal for the club is to create teams for competitive games like League of Legends, Apex Legends, and Overwatch and compete against other schools. With the new addition of the Esports club, those who wish to play professionally now have the opportunity to make it to the big leagues.

The club hopes to enter some tournaments next month

with their Apex Legends team.

“The lineup is pretty solid of who’s going to compete, in Apex there’s three that compete and then you have a substitute. We have those four ready to go, so on that side we’re pretty solid.” Towery said.

Tariq Jenkins, a senior computer technology major from Monticello, Ark., and a player on the Apex Legends roster, said he is excited to compete in the upcoming tournament with his team.

Jenkins expressed that he feels their team has a great chance at winning and they have already set goals to be the best team in the SWAC.

“I’m looking forward to being in that ‘Esports atmosphere’. Gaming is a passion of mine and I will be competing at the highest level,” Jenkins said. “This is my first opportunity to learn how an esports team and program operates.

Jenkins knows that Jackson State’s Esports program is in its infancy so it makes him feel like their team has something to prove. He said with Towery’s coaching the team has been able

to improve their skills together as a team and individually.

“It is so important to showcase the opportunities that gaming brings, as I don’t see many people that look like me at the top,” Jenkins said. “I would hope to be able to inspire others so that they have the confidence and knowledge to achieve their goals as well, no matter how hard it may seem.”

The club wants to also have lineups for their Overwatch and Valorant team for the next semester, but he said that will be determined on the interest level of students.

The reveal of the Esports team shocked some of Jackson State’s students because they were not aware of the SWAC’s involvement in esports.

Terrell Cobb, a psychology major from St. Louis, Mo., was one of the students surprised by the reveal but he said he thinks about it as another show of talent coming from Jackson State

“I feel like that’s a great way to further show black excellence. Lots of black people have so many talents

and gaming is one of them, so why not have a place where they can compete,” Cobb said.

“It may not be physical but it’s definitely just as competitive as other sports. It’s just virtual.”

Kejuan Barbee, a sophomore computer engineering major from Chicago, Ill., and defensive lineman on the football team, does not think that esports requires a lot physically but he said the new team will allow other students to get involved.

“It will probably bring a new world to this campus. I believe the Esports world is pretty big. There are a lot of people in the world who love to compete on the game,” Barbee said. “That’s why people make gaming organizations. I think gaming brings a lot of people together.”

According to HBCU ESPORTS, the industry is growing fast and esports is currently gaining a lot of popularity. There are currently 24 HBCUs involved in the HBCU Esports league.

“In terms of HBCUs and SWAC, I would probably say Southern has the best

program right now in terms of that aspect.” Towery said. “Personally, I would like to emulate what Southern has and also the University of Mississippi given that they’re in our state. Those two programs are what I am striving to emulate in the way we handle our club and competition.”

He also mentioned that Grambling University and Morgan State University have exceptional esports programs.

According to Towery, the Esports club will not only cater to competitors. He said he is creating a space for students to express their love for video games.

“Our club is open to anyone, boy or girl. You don’t have to compete, it’s a space to enjoy video games and connect with others over video games.” Towery said.

For any additional information check out their Instagram page @ JSUESPORTSCLUB. You also reach out to Towery via his email address: Nathan.a.towery@jsums.edu.

Levon Campbell contributed to this article.

Google Image

SWAC Defensive Player of the Year, Sydni Wilson.

Photo provided by Sydni Wilson