The Blue & White Flash January 29, 2015

PG.5

PG.4

Vol. 75 / No. 16

INSIDE

JSU Events....................... 2 Opinion............................ 3

News................................. 4

Variety.............................. 5

Empire tv show................. 5

Yes, We’re Social Jackson State Flash @the_jsuflash JacksonState-Flash @thejsuflash

5-day Weather Thursday

Mostly Sunny High 72o Low 40o

Friday

Mostly Sunny High 56o Low 35o

Saturday

Partly Cloudy High 59o Low 48o

Sunday

Thunderstorms High 61o Low 34o

Monday

Mostly Sunny High 44o Low 30o

FLASH FACTS

Any student who is caught on JSU campus with marijuana will face penalties range from $200 $500 fine, counseling, suspension, expulsion, or loss of privileges.

PG.6

January 29, 2015

www.thejsuflash.com

CIA Fair shows students how they can serve Jeremy Anderson MC301 Contributor/Staff

neighborhood were getting killed. The victims and killers were all between the Hundreds of Jackson ages of 14-19. This sparked State University students her journey toward giving met with organizations back. offering service At 19 years old, Hooker opportunities at the annual began hosting children Community in Action Fair. from poor performing Hosted by the Alice schools and impoverished Varnado Harden Center f o r neighborhoods to mentor Service and Community and expose them to a Engaged Learning on lifestyle outside of their Jan. 27, the fair was held normal environment. in the Student Center Hooker ran the program Ballrooms. Students and and nurtured kids who vendors interacted to were written off as people learn how volunteering who would not amount not only helps students to anything good, and fulfill the community inspired them to go to service requirement college. needed to graduate but “Community service also positively impacts t h e doesn’t just have to be community. cleaning up the park ... or 50 community just volunteering once a Photo: Kimberly Harris partners and agencies day at the Red Cross,” said JSU students pose with Ty-Licia Hooker during CIA Fair. were represented with Hooker. Hooker closed informational brochures her speech by challenging and representatives sharing listeners to find creative and connecting with students. peppered with shades of Oakland, Calif., and how she ideas to impact communities Langston Hughes’ “A Dream wished to change it.

Shortly after doors opened, through community service.

Deferred”, which she wrote As Hooker continued with students and attendants were After the inspiring message when she was just 12 years old. her chronology to where she invited to hear this year’s from Hooker, organizations In what would be is now, she spoke about the guest speaker, Black Girls including: Big Brother Big foreshadowing to what she prejudices from her college Rock Award-Winner, Ty-Licia Sister, Jackson Zoo, Minority would accomplish later in life, professors and classmates Hooker.

Hooker began her address the piece expressed what she at the University of Pacific CIA Cont. on pg. 7 with a piece of spoken word, felt about her community in and how people from her

Students weigh-in on marijuana legalization Camille Amos and Mark Braboy Staff Writers

The pros and cons of the legalization of marijuana is a discussion being held by many state governments in the U.S., even Mississippi.

According to their website, The Marijuana Policy Project, envisions a nation where marijuana is legally regulated similarly to alcohol, marijuana education is honest and realistic, and treatment for problem marijuana users is non-coercive and geared toward reducing harm.

According to MPP, the Mississippi Alliance for Cannabis is in the process of collecting more than 100,000 signatures for Ballot Initiative 48 by Oct. 2, 2015. This

initiative, if passed, would allow the voters in Mississippi to decide in the 2016 general election whether to legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana for adults.

Students at Jackson State University are weighing in on the national discussion of the legalization of marijuana.

Some view marijuana as bad and harmful while others see it as harmless and useful.

Carleigh Smith, a sophomore elementary education major from Brandon, Miss. said “I don’t smoke but to each his own. I don’t smoke because I don’t want to be out of my own control and smoke messes with my throat.”

Smith also states that she

Legalization Cont. on pg. 7

mpp.org Marijuana Policy in the States.

Tiger Events

Page 2 - January 29, 2015

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 Mia Brooks Kris Campbell Dejha Carlisle Christoper Chapman Dwayne Joeseph Jr. Kenya Johnson

Octavis Lawson Elissa McCool Dominique McCraney Ashton Nash Alexis Neely Brittney Snell Alexis Scott Reese Tornes

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

2ND ANNUAL TRUNK SHOW The Jackson State University Department of Contractual Services will hold the 2nd Annual Trunk Show on Feb. 9th from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the JSU Student Center, Ballroom A. Supercard vendors including Swell-OPhonic, Royal Bleau, Lipstick Lounge and many more will be in attendance just in time for Valentine’s Day. For more information call Alla Jeanae Frank at (601) 979-1372.

Directors Network to provide sessions during the 5th annual Mississippi Early Childhood Alliance Conference on developing quality educational skills and classroom strategies.

Early registration for the conference costs $20 ($15 with a student ID). On-site registration is cash only for $25. For more information, visit www.mlims.org.

JSU TO CREAT COMMUNITY LEARNING GARDEN Jackson State University is planning to create a community learning garden and outdoor classroom to teach Blackburn Middle School students how food is grown. A partnership between Blackburn, the College of Education and Human Development and Center for University-based Development, the project has already received a $5000 grant to get the project started. For more information, see: http://www. toolboxforeducation.com

KOREAN AND CHINESE ART ADDED TO JSU COLLECTION Art scholars traveled across continents to introduce Korean and Chinese art to Americans as part of a new exhibition at Jackson State University.

Ceramics scholar Dr. Dong Hun Chung led the delegation from Korea and China.

The exhibit opened on Jan. 15 in the College of Liberal Arts Gallery on the first floor of the Dollye M.E. Robinson Building and will run until Feb. 25. For more information call Kim at (601)979-2395 CLUBS/ or email hyun.chong.kim@ ORGANIZATIONS jsums.edu YEARBOOK PHOTOS Its not too late to schedule MISS. EARLY your clubs/organization CHILDHOOD e-yearbook photos taking CONFERENCE The Mississippi Learning place on Jan. 29-30 from 1 Institute at Jackson State 6 p.m. in the Student Center University is collaborating Ballrooms. Call 601-979-2167 with the Childhood for more information.

Page 3 - January 29, 2015

The Blue & White Flash

Opinion

“Do you think marijuana should be legalized in Mississippi?”

Compiled by Dejha Carlisle, Derrick Walton and William Kelly

Kyndareus Bailey Therapetic Recreation Sophomore Jackson, Miss.

“Yes, because it’s not harmful.”

Edgar Johnson Computer Engineering Freshman Chicago, Ill.

“Yes, marijuana is natural and really carries no negative side effects.

Also its uses for medical purposes are amazing.”

Destiny Thomas Psychology Freshman Benoit, Miss.

“I think it should be legalized because everyone’s doing it.”

Cartoon: Reese Tornes

Puff-puff and pass marijuana legalization bill in Miss.

COMMENTARY Chanel Wilkerson Criminal Justice Junior Detroit, Mich.

“I don’t feel like marijuana should be legalized at all.

It’s not coinciding with society.”

Michael Wilson Speech Communications Senior Vicksburg, Miss.

“I feel that it’s not a negative drug. It is only negative perceived by the manipulated society.”

Yang Li Engineering Graduate Student Southeast, China

“I’m not familiar with marijuana. I never heard about it. ”

Mark Braboy Associate Editor

Derrick Jones Computer Engineering Senior Jackson, Miss.

“I feel like it should be legalized if it is profitable for the state.”

Justin Hardwick Freshman Mass Comm.

Houston, Texas “Yes, I think it should because it would bring down the crime rate.”

Kyle Witt Computer Engineering Senior Pickens, Miss.

“I feel that a lot of money is wasted in attempting to keep people incarcerated for marijuana related offenses which are non violent offenses.”

Tyale McNary Freshman Mass Comm.

St. Louis, Mo.

“​ I feel like it could be good because of all of the money, but weed can deter you from doing stuff, not show immediately but it will over time.”

Iman Beckham Pre-Veterinarian Junior Atlanta, Ga.

“I feel like it should because it helps you actually think.

Some people are more calm while smoking.”

Robert Small Criminal Justice Sophomore Mobile, Ala.

“To a certain extent. If it can get regulated. state law doesn’t overrule federal law.”

As we are halfway into the decade, the national conversation about the legalization of marijuana is slowly becoming a more progressive one.

States such as Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska have legalized marijuana for recreational and medical use.

Others like Illinois, New York, Michigan, California, Nevada, Arizona, and twelve other states have only legalized it for medical uses.

However, the always progressive state of Mississippi has yet to allow it to be legalized in either fashion. At least not all the way.

Right now, Mississippi is one of several states where it has been decriminalized and the only place that can grow, research, and distribute medical marijuana is the University of Mississippi.

Decriminalization is not the same as legalization however.

While it is a crime to be in possession marijuana, in small amounts offenders only receive a fine and minimal jail time.

According to norml.org, the current laws in Mississippi for possession of 30 grams or less can range from a $250 fine on a first offense up to a mandatory minimum of 5 days in jail and a $500 fine for a third time offender. Anything above that is a felony and if marijuana is found in your car in a place other than your trunk, it is a misdemeanor.

Sure that is what the laws in the books say, but according to the Marijuana Policy Project, blacks are 3.9 times more likely to be arrested for possession than whites in Mississippi, no matter the laws.

In my opinion, at this point the best solution for Mississippi to prosper is to call for complete legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana.

Not only that, the development of marijuana dispensaries across the state, starting with Jackson, could effectively combat the marijuana drug trade and its illegal distribution throughout the city. It would be easier and safer for people to obtain medical marijuana for medicinal purposes. This would also alleviate the problem of people using marijuana laced with other strange substances.

The amount of revenue that the state could take in would allow Mississippi to flourish.

According to Colorado’s Department of Revenue, the state has made over $40 million in tax dollars within the first ten months of legalization.

This could potentially open the window for more job opportunities statewide and more money being invested into

things like our public education system, public transportation, city infrastructure, and even Jackson State University can receive more funding.

Speaking of JSU, if marijuana were to be legalized, it could also allow the university a chance to be able to participate in research, harvest, study, and produce medical marijuana the same way the University of Mississippi has been able to since 1968 for added revenue.

Fortunately, Mississippi could be walking in the right direction. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, the Mississippi Alliance for Cannabis is currently collecting over 100,000 signatures for the Ballot 48 initiative by Oct. 2 of 2015, so legalization can be voted on in 2016. They also report that in 2014, Mississippi has passed a law for certain types of medical marijuana to be used for patients who have debilitating seizures.

So while it appears that the conservative state of Mississippi is slowly moving in the right direction, Mississippi has a very long way to go. If marijuana were legalized, the state could flourish in ways we could only dream of. But that’s only if they decide that they finally want to make a progressive step forward.

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

News

Page 4 - January 29, 2015

The Blue & White Flash

Georgia Dome gets hit by the Sonic Boom of the South William Kelly Photographer/Student Designer

Photo: Ashton Hall Rapper Big K.R.I.T. poses with members of the Sonic Boom of the South at the Honda Battle of the Bands in the Georgia Dome.

On Jan. 24, 2015, the top eight most prestigious, dome rattling, shoe stomping marching bands from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) gave their all at the annual Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB).

Held in Atlanta, Ga. at the Georgia Dome, the Sonic Boom and other bands joined artists Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick, with the mass combination band taking the field with more than 60,000 fans and supporters cheering them on.

Many students from Jackson State University traveled to this event in support of the one and only Sonic Boom of the South.

“I had the opportunity to attend the HBOB because I performed representing

MADDRAMA at the HBCU Recruitment Fair and the experience was amazing.

Seeing thousands of people from different universities come together for the sake of beautiful sounds was awesome,” said Bre Hunter, a freshman theatre major from Kansas City, Mo. The Honda Battle of the Bands was created to celebrate, support and recognize the excellence of Black college marching bands and the unique academic experience offered by HBCUs. Honda annually awards more than $200,000 in grants to participating marching bands during the program period.

Surprise guest Big K.R.I.T., a rapper and Mississippi native, joined the Boom in a performance that wowed the crowd.

Don Jones, a freshman accounting major from New

Orleans, La. and member of the Boom, loved every second on the field.

“I would describe my experience at Honda as an undeniably remarkable experience for me. Band members benefit from the event because you get the chance to encounter band members from all over while exchanging friendly competition,” said Jones.

“The hype about Honda is getting your top tier; the most-voted bands show their drill execution but also the performance and musical side.”

According the prnewswire. com, this year’s theme, “March On,” served as a reminder to students and fans that life on and off the field is a journey, and no matter the challenge, the dream or what may lie ahead, learning never stops as long as you commit to “March On.”

Transfer students adjust to the life at Jackson State Orionna Brumfield MC301 Contributor/Staff New sights, new people, new opportunities, and most importantly, a new school!

Jackson State University welcomes transfer students with the same enthusiasm as incoming freshmen. In fact, the Community College Relations office is dedicated to helping transfer students adjust to life at JSU. Many of the transfer students who come to JSU from community colleges have already earned an Associate’s degree, and are completing the last two or three years at a university to receive a Bachelor’s degree.

Having earned a degree is an advantage most transfers have already achieved, but disadvantages can include limited social interactions because of the new environment.

Paul Scott, Community College Recruiter at JSU said, “I leave a lot of literature to all the community colleges across the state that I visit.” Scott goes to different community colleges to talk to students about Jackson State. He also brings advisors and transfer ambassadors along with him to answer more specific questions about properly transferring.

He added: “I feel that this institution can be a great

foundation for transfer students.

The community college relations office has a lot of different programs that are set in stone just for community college students” said Scott.

Jackson State has many programs, activities, and organizations that offer new member-ship opportunities every semester. Transfer students have the opportunity to get involved quickly in whatever interests them.

Elise Madison, a junior biology pre-vet major from Jackson, Miss. said, “There are more opportunities for you to have fun and meet lots of people. The campus is full of excitement. The university also gives you the opportunity to have more food choices.”

Xylan Epps, a junior multimedia journalism major from Jackson, Miss. agrees.

He did not go to a community college before Jackson State University.

Instead, he transferred from Mis-sissippi State University to Jackson State for the HBCU experience. He said, “My experience at JSU has been good so far. I really like my professors, and I feel like they’re helping me get to where I need to be in order to be successful in my future career. I like the atmosphere of the campus as well.”

“Embrace your new school, with that, you’ll be able to be more involved in activities on campus.

Make friends and

Photo: Orionna Brumfield Transfer student, Jasmine Robb has lunch with current student, Fredricka Armstrong.

connections that you could possibly take to new heights and benefit you when you look for jobs,” Epps.

Although the Community College Relations office is dedicated to helping with the new adjustment, transfer students have to prepare themselves individually for the change. Community colleges are smaller, and many say the student’s experience there is more personal.

Jasmine Robb, a junior social work major from Rosedale, Miss. said, “For me personally, it

was wise to go to a community college first because you find out what you’re capable of. If I know I’m not where I need to be in my education, a community college helps me get there. A university has a fast pace.”

Madison also noticed the difference in pace between a community college and university.

“A community college for me was more organized than a university. There was more one on one time with the counselors at the community college, and they guided and helped you on

your right career path. You are kind of on your own when you go to a university. At a university, you have to learn how to make connections,” said Madison.

A university gives students the opportunity to figure things out for themselves individually. Although this may be a disadvantage for some, it can help students mature.

Most transfer students agree that adjusting to a new school is challenging.

“You have to know your main purpose for going to a university” said Robb.

Variety

Page 5 - January 29, 2015

The Blue & White Flash

Hip-hop drama “Empire” dominates TV ratings

Google Image

Ashton Nash Staff Writerr Taking the reigns as the highest rated television show aired on the Fox network in three years, “Empire” has many hip-hop fans eagerly awaiting each episode.

The show premiered on Jan. 7. Empire and had

E&L Bar-b-que Brittney Snell Staff Writer A well-known and extremely popular restaurant in the Jackson area for many years, E & L Bar-b-que continues of its legacy of providing some of the best home-style barbeque around.

Every time I have visited, there have been many customers lining the walls of the restaurant, this is always a good sign for me. If the people like it, they will come!

For this reason however, beware, E & L is not the place

nearly 10 million viewers and reportedly gained one million more the following week. While the show is doing increasingly well with viewers, each week the characters and storyline have viewers at the edge of their seats.

The music industry is a key component to this hip-hop soap opera. The starring actors to go if you are in a hurry.

The ambience of the place leaves much to be desired.

Years and years of smoke from the wood fire grill that opens frequently to pull the slabs of ribs, chicken and sausages out to be cut and sauced right before your eyes, have taken a toll on the overall appearance of the restaurant.

While in line, you will also have plenty of time to notice all of the collected dust in the restaurant, especially on the old fan they still have placed in the restaurant. But it’s not the appearance of the place that is drawing the customers through the doors in droves.

The first thing I tried was their famous rib tips.

They are my favorite thing on the menu and is what I would recommend first time visitors to get. They are tender, juicy and the hickory smoke flavor is all the way down to the bone. Bring your appetite because you will be more than pleased with the amount of rib tips and fries

include veterans Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson.

Award winning producer Lee Daniels of the movie “Butler” fame and Danny Strong are the creators for “Empire”.

The music is produced by hit maker and producer Timbaland. This music soap opera has intertwining stories of all the characters involved The popular is leaving no stone unturned, tackling issues of homophobia, drugs, lust, greed, and power. In the premiere, Lucious Lyons (Howard) is a reformed drug dealer and rapper turned music mogul that has become a gimmick artist all about the dollar. His character puts you in the mind of Jay Z. Lyons runs Empire Records, a notorious record label that is growing because of Lyons both savvy business mind and street knowledge.

Now because of his illness that no one has yet to find out about he has designated the heir to the company to be one of his three sons.

Lyons, who is facing a diagnosis of ALS, a debilitating disease, has decided to choose a successor among his three sons. Andre (Trai Byers) is

the oldest and most qualified and wants the company the most and will stop at nothing to get it.

Jamal (Jussie Smollett) is the gay middle son who is also a talented singer/songwriter who just wants acceptance from his father. Or will the coveted position go to Hakeem (Bryshere Gray), the wild card with talent rivaling that of his father, but many vices including women, immaturity and drugs to contend with as well.

In the midst of this, an unexpected surprise has come to shake Empire to its core and her name is Cookie Lyons (Henson), the ex-wife of Lucious, mother of all three sons and founder of Empire.

Cookie comes home after doing a seventeen-year stint in jail and comes home to take what is hers, the company.

When Lyons refuses to meet her demands, she threatens to expose that it was her $400,000 in drug money that started the company, which would end Lucious’ plans to take the company public.

Wanting to make amends for the time away from her sons, she instantly becomes

Jamal’s protector against his homophobic father.

Flashbacks of Jamal’s childhood when Lucious threw him in the garbage can for wearing women’s clothes gives viewers a glimpse into what Jamal has endured at the hands of his father who seems determined to keep him from becoming a superstar because of his sexuality.

As the competition between the brothers heats up, fans eagerly await the varying storylines delving into betrayal, homosexuality, murder, mental illness, and sex with each new episode.

“I love Taraji’s character.

She’s so fierce and all about her business. Overall the show kept me at the edge of my seat and I can’t wait until the next episode,” said Cherese Pendleton, a senior mass communications major from Hattiesburg, Miss.

“Empire” is a classic story with contemporary beats.

One of the things that make this show so different is the music and the connection felt between the viewers and the artists. Empire’s scandalous story line has viewers intrigued and plagued for next

Photo: William Kelly

(don’t forget the sauce) you get for the cost.

The sauce at E&L is delicious and you can get it on everything they serve or on the side.

I have tried was the chicken wings dipped in sauce as well. I personally like my chicken crispy, but many of the customers ordered this menu item drenched with sauce.

E & L also has other things on the menu. You can get whole slabs of ribs, sausage links, fish and all the sides traditionally served at

barbeque restaurants.

The restaurant is located on Bailey Avenue, just out of downtown and its proximity to Jackson State University and affordable prices make it a campus favorite.

I would recommend people to try E & L because it does have very good food, though you might have to get over the condition of the restaurant, it consistently has good food and I haven’t been disappointed.

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

4 out of 5 for ks!

News

Page 6 - January 29, 2015

The Blue & White Flash

Controversial “American Sniper” reigns in theaters

Google Image

Dwayne Joseph Staff Writer Sitting at the edge of your seat, biting your nails with your heart racing is what will happen while watching the movie, “American Sniper”.

Based on the life of former Navy SEAL sniper, Chris Kyle, this movie provides actionpacked drama along with heart wrenching scenes that ensured its Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring veteran actor Bradley Cooper of “Hangover” series notoriety, the movie focuses on the military veteran’s life. Kyle is known as the most lethal sniper in

American history. The Texas native served and protected the country he loved during four Iraqi tours. However, Kyle was tragically killed at a Texas gun range at the age of 38 by a fellow veteran he was trying to help who was allegedly suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.

The movie has garnered six Oscar nominations, including Cooper’s stunning portrayal of Kyle, leading to his winning the BFCA Critics’ Award for Best Actor in an Action Movie and an Oscar nomination for Best Actor.

“American Sniper” seemed more like a documentary because of the realistic war scenes, causing the viewer to truly empathize with the plight of the characters in the film. The movie gives important series of events that happened in the life span of Chris Kyle, including the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center.

Eastwood zoomed in on the life of Kyle and how he managed to the look out for his army buddies as they search

for terrorists in the country of Iraq. Kyle vowed to protect his brothers at any cost, even if it involved gunning down a child who is a threat to the entire armed forces.

“American Sniper” stands tall on top of the weekend box office, earning over $200 million since its release five weeks ago, according to boxofficemojo.com.

The movie has been getting negative feedback however.

Comments by filmmaker Michael Moore about the movie caused viral debates across the Internet.

Moore states: “My uncle was killed by sniper in WW2 (World War II). We were taught that snipers were cowards who will shoot you in the back.

Snipers aren’t heroes.” Many critics viewed his comments as anti-American.

In my opinion however, the movie does what it set out to do, entertain and inform.

It gives civilians a look inside the mind and life of soldiers during time of conflict.

Cooper’s amazing acting career has just peaked.

Rapper Lil Wayne uses social media to beef with Birdman Derrick Walton MC Practicum Student Many hip-hop fans have been stunned to learn of the controversy between rapper Lil Wayne and his Cash Money Records mentor and “father” Birdman. Weezy tweeted, ‘I want off this label and nothing to do with these people,’ and while many believed that the social media posting publicity stunts it seems that there is trouble in ‘Cash Money” paradise.

Recent tweets being posted on by both Wayne and his longterm friend Birdman seem to validate the beef and some online sources have state the rift between the two is true and more serious that many imagine.

According to allhiphop. com, Wayne mentioned that he was suppose to release his new album on Nov. 9 of last year but indicated that he was in a bad situation. He wanted to be released from the label because Birdman wouldn’t release “Tha Carter V”.

Lil Wayne decided to release mixtape to apologize to his fans for the delay of his unreleased album. After releasing “Sorry 4 the Wait 2”, listeners can hear

Wayne speak about some of his dissatisfactions with his label as well as comments relating to Birdman.

TMZ is also reporting that the two tried to make a settlement but neither came up with a compromise. Wayne’s pending lawsuit against Cash Money and its head Bryan “Birdman” Williams will include demands that YM

artists Drake, Nicki Minaj, and others stay tied to Weezy.

Some JSU students are surprised about the controversy considering the close relationship between the two artists.

“I’m amazed that two artists that are recognizable are feuding,” said Robria Daniels, a senior English major from

Jackson, Miss.

Other students feel Birdman is the villain in this situation.

“He signed the contract, but he didn’t know he would get himself into this because of the personal relationship they have. By him being young and ignorant, he thought this would never happen of the

relationship that they both have,” said Amber Lockett, a sophomore social work major from Chicago, Ill. Cadaris Waits, a freshman music education major from Jackson, Miss. thinks professional jealousy is fueling the beef.

“Birdman is probably showing hatred towards Lil Wayne because he thinks that Lil Wayne’s album will outshine him”, said Waits.

Aaron Estes, a sophomore business marketing major from Dallas, Texas said, “Personally, Wayne is entitled to feel like that because Birdman is spending much time trying to groom Young Thug into being the new Wayne.

Instead, he should try to show Wayne the love and respect for the artist he is.”

With the continuing delay of “Tha Carter V” and Wayne suing Birdman, it appears that the controversy will continue.

Legalization

CIA

Cont. from pg.1 Male Leadership Initiative, Girl Scouts, Mountain of Faith Ministries, The Good Samaritan Center, American Cancer Society, TigerTV, Oakley Youth Development Center, the Human Rights and many others, shared with students how their organizations served the community.

Jill Travillion, a sophomore psychology major at JSU, was a representative for the JSU College of Education Kids Kollege.

“Kids Kollege is basically an after school enrichment program. We help them with homework, we counsel them, we help them in every aspect,” said Travillion. “Kids Kollege accepts anyone as a volunteer, but preferably education majors.”

Emily Summerlin, Visitor and Membership Services Coordinator for the Mississippi Museum of Art said that students will get a “wide variety” of experience from working with the Mississippi Museum of

“Community service doesn’t just have to be cleaning up the park.. or just volunteering once a day at the Red Cross.”

- Ty-Licia Hooker Art. Students will be able to work with different community events and education programs through this organization.

To add to the diversity of organizations, the South Jackson Eagles, a youth football team was also present at the CIA fair.

Founded by Myron McGowan, the team was looking for students interested in coaching, social media and photography for the team.

“If somebody simply wants to help us, but they really don’t know how to find their niche, everybody uses social media …. Just getting likes for our team, I give credit for that,” said McGowan.

Cont. from pg.1 does not want to get emotionally dependent on it.

Kyle Witt, a senior computer engineering major from Pickens, Miss. said, “I feel that a lot of money is wasted in attempting to keep people incarcerated for marijuana related offenses which are non violent offenses.”

According to Medicalmarijuana. org, one of the negative aspects of “smoked marijuana” is that it damages the brain, heart, lungs, and immune system. It impairs learning and interferes with memory, perception, and judgment. Smoked marijuana also contains cancercausing compounds and has been implicated in a high percentage of automobile crashes and workplace accidents.”

Medicalmarijuana.org also states that evidence is overwhelming that marijuana can relieve certain types of pain, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms caused by such illnesses as multiple sclerosis, cancer and AIDS -- or by the harsh drugs sometimes used to treat them.

Marijuana is also less toxic than many of the drugs that physicians prescribe every day.

Iman Beckman, a junior biology major from Atlanta, Ga. said, “I feel like it should (legalized) because it helps you actually think. Some people are calmer while smoking.”

The website further asserts that marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol and tobacco use. Around

50,000 people are killed every year from alcohol poisoning.

When it comes to tobacco, about 400,000 people died each year.

When comparing marijuana to the two, it is nontoxic and cannot cause death by overdose.

Behind tobacco and alcohol, marijuana is the third most used drug. More than 100 million Americans have tried marijuana before and 14 million still use it on a regular basis.

There are currently 24 states that allow medical marijuana use.

There are only two states that allow recreational usage of cannabis; those states are Washington and Colorado.

Marijuana has become a lucrative business for Denver, Colo. According to the denverpost. com, Colorado recorded its biggest recreational marijuana tax haul yet in April, topping more than $3.5 million in sales and excise taxes. Over the entire year, the state made about $18 million off recreational marijuana.

Keiara Reynolds, a sophomore biology/pre health major from Naperville, Ill. said, “I am prochoice. If you choose to smoke marijuana or not, it is your decision. I am for the legalization of marijuana.”

Students should be aware that Jackson State abides by the laws of the state of Mississippi. Marijuana and any kind of paraphernalia are strictly prohibited. Any student who is caught will face penalties that range from a $200 - $500 fine, counseling, suspension, expulsion, or loss of privileges.

Sports

Page 8 - January 29, 2015

The Blue & White Flash

Patriots and Seahawks square-off in Super Bowl XLIX Jeremy Anderson MC301 Contributor/Staff

Deflate-gate and blizzards will not stop the 49th Super Bowl matchup between the New England Patriots and the defending champion Seattle Seahawks.

Both teams ended the regular season with a 12-4 record and both teams are No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences. Although both teams share similar records and seeds, the two teams had two different journeys to the Super Bowl.

The Patriots started their playoff run against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Ravens proved to be a tough test for the Patriots as the Baltimore held a 14-point lead two different times in the game. But the resilient Patriots team, led by Quarterback Tom Brady, rallied to win 35-31.

In its fourth consecutive American Football Conference championship, the Patriots had what seemed like a much easier game. The Patriots faced off against Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts. The Patriots had already beaten the Colts earlier and the season, and had no problem doing so once again.

The Patriots dismantled the Colts 45-7 in a matchup in which the Colts looked simply overmatched.

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The Seattle Seahawks had a decent test to begin its road to the Super Bowl. Its first round matchup was against Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers.

Seattle overpowered Carolina for much of the game, and the 31-17 final score did not indicate the difference in levels of play between the two games. Although Carolina fought valiantly, Seattle controlled the game in every phase of the game.

In the National Football Conference championship game,

Seattle couldn’t have faced a tougher opponent on that day. Aaron Rogers and Green Bay Packers entered Century Link Field in Seattle with no plans of letting Seattle cruise to another Super Bowl.

Seattle struggled all game against the Packers. Quarterback Russell Wilson threw four interceptions in regulation of the game. Yet still, the Seahawks managed to come back from 15 points in the final 2 minutes of the game to send it into overtime

Jared Edwards Freshman Business Management Biloxi, Miss.

Compiled by Dejha Carlisle

“I believe the Seattle Seahawks will definitely win, because their offense is just as good as the Patriots excepts the Seahawks have better defense skills.”

and eventually win the game.

With the Seahawks riding off an emotional victory, I expect the Seahawks to be teeming with the same raw emotion when kickoff time arrives.

Although Tom Brady and Bill Belichick have been to five Super Bowls and have won three of them together, their last appearance was in 2008. A large portion of the current Patriots roster was not a part of any of the Super Bowl appearances. I believe

Tory Pacerson Sophomore Mathematics Chicago, Ill.

“Definitely Seahawks because they have the best defense ever. They have proven themselves to be champions.”

this gives a slight advantage to the Seahawks being that they were in the same exact position just last year.

The most interesting part of this game will be seeing how the explosive New England offense fares against Seattle’s stingy, hard-hitting defense.

In last year’s Super Bowl, Seattle held a Peyton Manning-led Denver Bronco offense to just eight points.

I expect the Patriots to fare a little better than the Broncos did last year, but I still expect Seattle to control the game on the defensive side.

Cornerback Richard Sherman and the rest of the Seattle defense play best when the light is as big as it can get.

And at no time are the lights brighter than the Super Bowl.

Also, with the game being in Glendale, Ariz., the rowdy Seattle fans should outnumber the New England faithful to make it a little harder for Brady to operate his offense.

I expect Russell Wilson to play well enough, with the aid of Seattle’s stifling defense, to lead Seattle to a second straight Super Bowl. Seattle would be the first Super Bowl champion to repeat since 2005 when Tom Brady’s Patriots defeated Philadelphia.

With the average price of tickets reaching $4000, most football fans will be catching the game on NBC on Feb. 1st at 5:30 p.m.

Joshua Rudd Freshman Political Science Batesville, Miss.

“I believe the Seattle Seahawks will win the Superbowl because for one, they have an explosive secondary that can handle Tom Brady.”

JSU baseball team aims for SWAC Championship three-peat Jenna Siddiqui MC301 Contributor After winning back-to-back championships, the Jackson State University baseball team is preparing for this year’s season and hopes to bring home the SWAC Championship for the third year in a row.

The team had a 19-5 record during their journey to the 2013 SWAC Championship.

Their road to victory was a lot harder in 2014 with a record of 9-15. On the way to the SWAC tournament, the bus caught on fire, destroying all the equipment and delaying their journey. However, this tragic accident did not faze the players, who seemed to be more motivated.

Overcoming adversity, a slow season and every flaming obstacle that crossed their paths, they left the tournament not only as champions, but back-to-back champions.

Jovany Felipe, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Miami, Fla., is a catcher for JSU says

the team is setting their sights a little higher this year.

“I feel like there is a lot to prove to show that we can consistently be top contenders in not only the SWAC, but in NCAA play in general,” said Felipe.

The team has been running, weight-lifting and conditioning since January and held their first on the field practice on Jan. 23.

“Based on what has been shown this off-season and pre-season, we can definitely swing the bat. I believe that our pitching needs to improve a little bit so we do not have to rely on winning ball games on plenty of runs all the time,” said Felipe.

Mark Watson, a freshman management major from Orlando, Fla., is a third baseman for JSU and stated that Alabama State University will be the team’s toughest competition in the SWAC. “We are spending a lot of time at the field doing individual drills and breaking down play situations that occur. We have a young team which is a disadvantage

because we all have to get familiar with each other and create team chemistry,” said Watson.

Going into the 2015 season, the team lost 12 seniors from last year’s championship team.

Vincent Anthonia, a junior physical education major from Willimstad, Curacao, is a left-handed pitcher who has won a championship every season he has played for JSU. “Even though we lost a lot of seniors, we still have a lot of returners that made a n impact last year like, Melvin Rodriguez, infielder; Alexander Juday, pitcher; and Gary Thomas, short stop. I feel like we are definitely set apart from other SWAC teams because we have experience in the regionals two years in a row. Last year we beat Louisiana Lafayette who was No. 1 in the nation at the

JSU Athletics Media Two time champions 2015 baseball team.

time,” said Anthonia.

Anthonia pitched the game JSU won in the regionals of 2014 against Lafayette, but still feels a little pressure because he is expected to

and wants to be someone who steps up.

The first home game for the Tigers is Feb. 13 against Texas Pan America at 3 p.m.