FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi
www.thejsuflash.com
INSIDE
Vol. 79 / No. 19 OPINION
Probates make memories page 3
NEWS Etiquette Dinner page 4
March 28, 2019
VA R I E T Y “US” movie review page 6
S P O RT S NBA Draft Lottery page 8
Hundreds gather in JSU’s AAC to see newest members of Greek organizations revealed
Graphic by Kalin Norman
Clement Gibson Editor-in-Chief
Family and friends gathered from far and wide to support their loved ones as they stepped into their new fraternities and sororities at Jackson State University’s annual and highly anticipated Great Reveal. Sonny Mitchell, also known as Sonny Thee Tiger, Jackson State’s talented mascot and member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc, hosted the event, which started around 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, in the Lee E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center. Of the nine Greek organizations on campus, five welcomed new members to their brother and sisterhoods. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., all revealed their Neos to the world. Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, and Iota Phi Theta were among the fraternities and sororities that did not participate but attended in
support of their fellow PanHellenic Greek brother and sisters. The show opened with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as they welcomed nine new members into their organization. They appeared in black crew necks with a gold A in the center and acted out scenes along with their steps— which kept the audience entertained. DeMerrius Plair, a junior civil engineering major from O’Fallon, Mo., was proud of his new fraternity brothers for their hard work. “It felt wonderful because I was just in their position a year ago. Seeing their hard work made me feel extremely proud,” said Plair. Plair originally started off as the recording secretary for the Delta Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., but moved up to vice president later in the year. He continued, “My favorite part was seeing my Neos probate in a different fashion,” said Plair. Next was Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., as two new members revealed themselves and joined the sisterhood. Albeit only two women,
they showed the audience that sometimes, less is more. After removing their black shades and revealing themselves, they joined their sisters for their first official stroll. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., entered the stage next with 26 new members. When they began their performance, every new member wore scarves to hide their identity. But in due time they were removed as the audience cheered for all the familiar faces. Gwendolyn Joy, a junior marine biology major from Memphis, Tenn., shared her favorite moments from probate. “During the probate, I had butterflies but I was excited to finally be free… Seeing my family and friends faces when I was doing the routine was the best part. I also liked seeing everyone who did not see me revealed and how shocked they were,” said Joy. She is officially a new member of the Lambda Beta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., something she has always wanted. Joy finished, “I’ve always wanted to be a part of Zeta
Phi Beta because of how we give back to the community and uplift others.” Last, but not least for the women was Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., as they welcomed the largest line of the night. They marched on the stage with pink scarves, green skirts, and black tops, barrettes and shades. After not having a line the previous year, the AKA’s welcomed 63 new members into their organization. Jasmine Gibson, a senior elementary education major from Terry, Miss., said the anticipation made this probate special for her. She stated, “My favorite part about this year’s probate was the anticipation. Everyone was on the edge, waiting to see who would be revealed next.” Gibson currently serves as the president of the Gamma Rho Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and took joy in seeing the new members join her family. “I also enjoyed seeing the sense of accomplishment each new member had once they revealed themselves,” said Gibson. To cap off the night, the
YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!
men of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., strolled onto the stage to the new remixed version of “I Got Five On it,” by Luniz, previously used for Jordan Peele’s new film, “Us.” They also waved their flag and dimmed the lights as the 31 new members lined up to be introduced. Masquerade masks were used to hide their identity but did not stay on long as the men closed the show with individual dances. Once the Kappa’s finished, family and friends from the audience came on stage to take pictures and share unforgettable moments with their loved ones. Many shed tears of joy as they watched the young men and women enter a new chapter of their life. Tameeka Jackson, a freshman psychology major from Memphis, Tenn., spoke about Greek life in the south. “Greek life is important to us here in the south… It helps mold young men and women and our communities. If you didn’t know any better you would think this is a graduation ceremony with the amount of people here,” said Jackson.
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Tiger Events
Page 2 - March 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
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
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The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager CLEMENT GIBSON Editor- in-Chief
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
DEJA DAVIS Managing Editor
CIANNA REEVES Managing Editor
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.
DARRIUS BARRON Sports Editor
KALIN NORMAN Photography Editor
Publication/Distribution Information
Dierius Abby Wakil Atig Zahriah Balentine Kambui Bomani Halle Coleman Joseph Gordon
K’Shatriyah Humphrey Zipporah Jones Tamera McCook Luis Montgomery Sunshine Noel Landrie Tchakoua
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.
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.
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Opinion
Page 3 - March 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
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Divine Nine probates are source for many HBCU memories COMMENTARY
Darrius Barron Sports Editor
Crowds filled the seats of the Lee E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center on March 23, 2019 to support their friends and family as they become part of a black Greek organization. Overall, my favorite part of probate week was the actual probate. The energy in the building was unmatched.
To see alumni return to Jackson State University in support of their organization was a huge thing for nonGreeks to see. It shows that they support each other, no matter the distance that separates them. Most people were amazed by the routines that the organizations had planned, but I noticed something different. As the newly crossed members gave a brief history of their organization, I noticed that the Divine Nine goes far deeper than what they are stereotyped for. I believe we were all witnesses to the rebirth of the young men and women who crossed their respective lines that day. Each individual became more than one. They all became many, and more importantly, they all because someone’s brother or sister. Being from the north, and not having one friend or family member join a black Greek organization, I came to Jackson State blind to the ways of the black Greek life.
Events like homecoming and probate are testaments to how much of an influence these organizations have in our society. Almost like seeing Jackson State service the community for hundreds of years, seeing multiple generations of the same families join the same organization show that the Divine Nine is bigger than one person’s expectations. Even people who have no interest in becoming Greek can get inspired by watching some of the things at the probate. The Divine Nine is a staple in the black community, and many of our heroes (past or present) were products of those very organizations including: Dr. Martin L. King, Jr. (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity), Huey P. Newton (Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity), Toni Morrison (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority), Angela Bassett (Delta Sigma Theta Sorority), Zora Neal Hurston (Zeta Phi Beta Sorority) and MC Lyte (Sigma Gamma Rho
Sorority), Michael Jordan (Omega Psi Phi Fraternity) Colin Kaepernick (Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity) and T.C. Carlson (Iota Phi Theta) trusted that these organizations would help society move into a better state; and the new members at probate are continuing the legacy. Since the probate means so much to everyone involved, there is no way that anyone should have to pay so that they can show support of their loved one. It is ridiculous to believe that a prestigious institute like JSU will do everything in their power to capitalize off of their students who are already struggling financially. Nevertheless, the Divine Nine compliments the university in a way that the probates will be some people’s greatest memories from JSU besides acceptance and graduation. Something else that caught my attention at probate was how some organizations paid homage
to the men and women of other fraternities and sororities. A small gesture like that gives people like me a sense of understanding that even though they are all separate, the Divine Nine are respectful towards each other. Obviously, there is much more to learn about each organization, but as a person on the outside looking in, the probate was successful at demonstrating togetherness. It also stood out that despite some fraternities and sororities not participating in the probate, the members still showed up in support of each other. My experience at probate increased my love for the university as a whole. Hopefully, one day my children can experience a probate like the one I did. 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 did you enjoy most about the Great Reveal?” Compiled by Angel Varner
Chris Crump Junior Computer Engineering Baltimore, Md.
Miesha Bure Senior Business Management Vicksburg, Miss.
Marcus Bibbie Freshmen Biology/Pre-Medicine Chicago, Ill.
Rolonda Bingham Senior Computer Engineering Jackson, Miss.
Kaitlyn Dents Junior Computer Science Hattiesburg, Miss.
“I enjoyed seeing the engineering students who had crossed. It was neat to see them able to do something like that instead of working/ studying hard.”
“I really enjoyed the first day out because, it’s exciting to see everyone represent there dieted organization and be happy with what they chose.”
Vincent Harriston Freshmen Music Performance Atlanta, Ga.
“I really enjoyed the hot spot because I was able to crowd surf.”
“I really enjoyed the late night hotspot, music was great and everyone was having a good time”
“I really enjoyed seeing all the performances, they did their thing. Mostly seeing my drum line and summer bridge brothers cross. Congratulations to them and I wish them best of luck.”
“I really enjoyed the first day out because I got to see one of my close friends who pledged perform.”
Chris Crump Junior Computer Engineering Baltimore, Md.
Brooklyn May Freshmen Chemistry/Pre-Med. Little Rock, Ark.
Kobe Dixon Computer Science Sophomore Natchez, Miss.
Dawn Jackson Narville, La. Sophomore Biology/Pre-Vet
Jalen McCoy Freshmen Business Administration Easten, Miss.
Amari Fryer Business Administration Junior Memphis, Tenn.
“I enjoyed seeing the engineering students who had crossed. It was neat to see them able to do something like that instead of working/studying hard.”
“I enjoyed the actual probate because it was my first time experiencing one.”
“I enjoyed seeing all my friends come out that I didn’t know was crossing and hanging out with them later, especially after them going MIA for so long.”
“I enjoyed seeing the crowd. Seeing all the support was amazing.”
“I enjoyed seeing all the Greeks together strolling and finally having the AKAs come back was pretty cool.”
“I really enjoyed the night hot spot, it was lit!”
News
Page 4 - March 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Importance of etiquette stressed at Career Services event
Deja Davis Managing Editor
Good manners are the key to opening doors to opportunity. Jackson State University’s Career Services Center held its annual Etiquette Dinner, “Beyond Please and Thank You: Business and Dining Etiquette” on March 21 in the Student Center Ballrooms. Students came dressed in business and professional attire and were served a five-course meal while learning proper table manners, appropriate behavior in a business setting, and what makes a successful dining experience. “A lot of times employers actually take students for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner to conduct interviews instead of the normal company setting,” said Dr. Lavenita Cottrell, assistant director of Career Services at Jackson State. She continued, “Table manners definitely play an important part in making a favorable impression and are essential to professional success.” Along with showing good etiquette skills, students modeled some professional attire from the Tiger Career Closet, which is also a part of the CSC located in the Jacob L. Reddix Building on the first floor. Tiger Career Closet provides professional attire to currently enrolled JSU students who need professional attire for job
interviews or for the purpose of attending a function while representing JSU. “While it is important to have good table manners, you also have to look the part while going to functions and interviews. It is very important to have professional attire because that is what employers look for before the interviews take place and Tiger Career Closet will always be open and available if you are in need,” said LaShanda Jordan, executive director of the Career Services Center. A great meal was not the only objective of the center. Education was also a vital part of the etiquette dinner. The panel of faculty and staff opened the floor to students to voice their opinions and ask all the questions that were necessary to help them in the future. Upon signing in, the student participants were escorted to their tables and seated in front of their names to await the meal that was served. Jasmine Thomas, a graduate student from Atlanta, Ga., believes all students should attend programs like the Etiquette Dinner. “Etiquette and manners are necessary in everyday life, so I believe that students should definitely take the time out to attend these programs because it will help later on,” said Thomas. Mark Carter, a junior therapeutic recreation major from Clarksdale, Miss., believes the
Photo by Deja Davis
JSU employees and students who attended the annual Etiquette Dinner.
event was very beneficial to his future success. “I learned so much from this event. The food was amazing and I really loved the way that the ballroom was set up to look very professional. I wish that all students could get a chance to come out and actually see that it is kind of challenging to really see how to eat in a professional setting. It is not as easy as it seems to be,” said Carter. The Career Services Center also provided the guests with programs that included dinner
etiquette tips on the back. Some of the tips of what to do at a professional outing included: • Always pass to the right • Wait for host to signal before eating • Spoon soup away from you • Wait until everyone at your table has been served before you start eating • Place your napkin in your lap as soon as you are seated • Always say “please” and “thank you” to the waiter Lastly, some tips of what not to do included:
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• No chewing gum at the ta-
• Never put your elbows on the table • Never say, “I don’t like this” or “I am allergic to this”. Simply say, “No thank you” • Never reach if the food is not directly in front of you, ask for it to be passed If you missed the event, remember it is held annually so students can register to attend next year. Also, if you are in need of professional attire, the Tiger Career Closet is open and available to students.
Annual health fair raises awareness of various medical issues
Photo by Darrius Barron
JSU student signs up for information at one of the health fair vendor booths.
Darrius Barron Sports Editor
With the evolution of technology providing pop culture with video games that tempt players to sink into their seats for days at a time, and television shows that compel fans to binge an entire eight season series over the course of one week; the couch has easily become the most entertaining place to be.
With the goal of urging students to gain a better understanding of living healthier lifestyles, the Jackson State University Health Center held its annual health fair on March 22 on the Gibbs-Green Plaza. The event featured information tables from several different health aspects. JSU students populated the plaza during the lunch hours, some just enjoying the generous
sunlight, and others on their way to class. Everyone that participated in the event left with several care packages, a boxed lunch, and ways to spread the knowledge they acquired. Some vendors tackled dental health, some gave focus to sex education, others focused on mental health, and even knowing your family’s medical history. Some vendors felt the need to
cater to the enlightenment of personal hygiene. The “All of Us” research program which visited JSU in February of 2019, also made an appearance at the health fair. Because so many health complications are hereditary, “All of Us” encourages people to go and become aware of their medical history so that prevention or treatment can be less of a burden. Obesity is an issue that many the United States, specifically people in the state of Mississippi, struggles with. The Walter Payton Center’s staff made an appearance at the health fair to promote the “Sweetness Run/Walk”, and the “One-mile Fun Run” to fight against obesity. People interested in the runwalk can register online at www. Active.com with the keyword “Sweetness.” The event is scheduled for April 6, 2019 with an online deadline for registration of April 3, however on-site registration will be available. Mental health is an issue that is sometimes neglected or ignored in the black community. Glory Moses, the clinic office manager for the JSU
Applied Psychological Services clinic believes that the negative stigma of mental health in the black community remains, but awareness is on the rise. “There has been a shift, but I think the shift more is now dealing with the awareness; but the stigma still remains. I think that’s because of the lack of education and people not knowing, and not willing to know,” said Moses. Other vendors at the fair talked to students about another issue that is often not spoken about in the black community, unprotected sex. Kevin Patterson, a research associate with the community health program at JSU believes that spreading the truth about the dangers of unprotected sex is key to preventing STDs. “The big thing for me is authenticity, and how we package truth. At the end of the day, the message of truth is what is going to resonate, or what should resonate. This issue is not about ‘how do I pretty up a prevention plan.’ It is about how do we get students to think, to make conscious decisions about their tomorrow and today.”
Mississippi’s heartbeat bill signed into law by Gov. Phil Bryant Zipporah Jones
Staff Writer/MC301 Governor Phil Bryant signed a bill that restricts abortion as early as six weeks into pregnancy, when the fetal heartbeat can be heard that will almost certainly be challenged on March 20. This bil, now dubbed “The Heartbeat Bill” has been introduced in many states, including Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Georgia, according to The New York Times and CNN, but has never been signed into law before. Both the House and Senate in Mississippi approved and passed one of the bills that Phil Bryant signed that places restrictions on the reproductive health of women. Six weeks is before many women even know their pregnant, and the bill offered no exceptions to those who are victims of rape or incest. The bill only offered exceptions to women whose health was at risk. Because of such restrictions, the bill caused a huge uproar and could be seen as unconstitutional, according to Roe v. Wade, the supreme court ruling that declared abortion to be constitutional. According to CNN, The Center for Reproductive Rights has already promised to fight in Mississippi. The organization released this statement: “This ban is one the most
restrictive abortion bans signed into law, and we will take Mississippi to court to make sure it never takes effect”. Gov. Bryant stated publicly that he was protecting the lives of unborn children through this bill. “We’re going to protect that child whenever we can. We think this is showing the profound respect and desire of Mississippians to protect that child whenever we can,” Bryant said. This restrictive measure may come at the cost of many taxpayer dollars in Mississippi. It is supposed to take effect on July 1, but will likely be challenged in court before then. Critics have pointed out that taxpayer money is being wasted on something that probably will be halted in court. A previous law in Mississippi that would have banned abortions after fifteen weeks was blocked by a federal judge in November, who declared the law unconstitutional, according to NY Times. Critics also point out that Mississippi has the worst infant mortality rate in the nation, and they should focus on that rather than pushing stricter abortion laws. Some believe the problems may be in the type of legislation introduced in Mississippi. Legislation that focused on childcare and children’s well-being rather than stricter abortion would be a positive
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start towards improvement. Mississippi is not the only state that has moved towards stricter abortion laws. Florida, Ohio, Missouri, Tennessee, and Texas are all expected to approve fetal heartbeat measures this year, according to the NY Times. Efforts have also been made in Oklahoma seeking to add abortion to felony homicide laws, which could lead to potentially sending doctors to prison. Mississippi only has a single abortion clinic, located in Jackson, and it is often at the forefront of controversy involving abortion rights. One of the most restrictive
abortion bans introduced and signed into law, it could mean a huge change for many women in the state of Mississippi. The basic reproductive rights that they possess could be taken, and child mortality could even possibly increase in Mississippi. Women who have been victims of rape or incest will not have an outlet and will have to travel out of state to have procedures done. Many women might also have abortions done illegally, putting their health in danger because no other options exist. The heartbeat bill could be a serious danger to the health and freedom of women in Mississippi.
August Dixon, a junior music education major from Florence, Miss., believes the bill must be challenged and struck down. “I think this bill is a blatant attack on people’s choices with their own bodies, and not only misogynistic but also transphobic. It’s a disgusting display of men’s specifically white men, feeling they have the authority to control a society. It’s highly dangerous for anyone who will be affected by it, and sets us further back because of the religious and conservative pretenses held for this to have been passed.” Many organizations have already started the fight to protect women’s rights in Mississippi.
The Blue & White Flash
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(1-8) Five Greek organizations performed during 2019 Great Reveal probate show.
Great Reveal 2019
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8. Photos 1, 2,, 4, 6, 8 Kalin Norman/ Photos 3, 5, and 7 Darrius Barron
Variety
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The Blue & White Flash
Jordan Peele challenges the mind again in new thriller Clement Gibson
Editor-in-Chief
Jordan Peele’s “Us” is smashing box office records, nearly doubling analysts’ opening weekend projections and scored the best first weekend live-action original since 2009’s “Avatar,” according to the Los Angeles Times. Peele’s film was released less than a week ago, March 22, and has already surpassed $77 million in cumulative earning via Forbes. The story takes place in Santa Cruz, Calif. where Adelaide Wilson, played by Lupita Nyong’o, and her family are vacationing. Wilson grew up in the area and is haunted by a traumatic experience from her childhood. While vacationing, she becomes overly concerned about what may happen to her family. In due time, her worst fears come true as a family of four stand hand-in-hand in the Wilsons’ driveway as midnight approaches. The unknown family forces the Wilsons’ to fight for survival, but the irony lies in the fact that they are fighting versions of themselves. This film serves as director Jordan Peele’s sophomore production after thrilling the world with “Get Out” in 2017. Many believed that Peele would mirror his success with a similar film, as he is proving to do, but this time, he is doing it in a different
fashion. Instead of pointing the finger at the contrasting differences, this film points the finger at someone we know better than anyone else, ourselves. Witty, meticulous and strategic are all words that can be used to describe this movie, but a warning to all who plan to watch. Bring your thinking caps with you. Do not get lost in the possible side chatter and comments from the audience. Watch and think critically because this detailoriented film requires every bit of your attention. In just six days, Peele’s latest work sits at a new low of 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes after opening with an astounding 100 percent rating. Other movie critics like IMDb and Common Sense Media gave the horror film a 7.5/10 and 4/5 respectively. Even with all the success, there’s been some negative comments. Jake Kleinman, the entertainment editor at “inverse.com” credits marketing for Jordan Peele’s ‘notso-great horror movie.’ “Us isn’t the movie we were promised. All that marketing was clearly enough to send fans of ‘Get Out’ back to movie theaters,” said Kleinman. Michael Perdomo, a senior social work major from Costa Mesa, Calif., said the movie was very confusing.
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Perdomo stated, “I was completely lost. I’m not even going to lie. I thought it would be like his last movie [“Get Out”], but I was so wrong. It may be too early to say this, but in my opinion, I think the movie is overrated.” Leem Okojie, a criminal justice major from Philadelphia, Pa., said he regrets comparing the movie to Jordan Peele’s 2017 hit. “I spent the whole movie trying to find similar clues about race that
I saw in the last movie. It took away from my first experience with ‘Us’. So, I went to see it again and I must say it is genius. You have to really pay attention to details though or you’ll leave the theaters confused and think it sucked,” said Okojie. Much like my favorite artists, J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar, and their type of music that serves complex, mind-boggling, deep, metaphorical messages. Peele does the same.
The average listener may not have the time or mental compacity to fully understand and dive into the lyrics of such artists, but those who like a good challenge love it. Remember to keep an open mind while watching this movie, or else you may find yourself lost or wanting more and going to see the film over and over again for clarification. Then again, maybe that is what Peele wants.
Problems continue to plague the Ball family with latest scandal
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Zahriah Balentine
Staff Writer/MC301 Trouble continues to plague the Ball family as the future of Big Baller Brand is under pressure. Los Angeles Lakers guard Lonzo Ball, is stepping aside from the young company Big Baller Brand due to co-founder Alan Foster being linked to $1.5 million that went missing from Ball’s personal
account and business finances. According to ESPN, Ball stated that Foster had “used his access to my business and personal finances to enrich himself. As a result, I have decided to sever all ties with Alan, effective immediately.” Foster was accused by Humble Lukanga, Ball’s financial planner, of stealing money from Big Baller Brand and the Lakers point guard’s accounts. The conflict began in October when Lukanga sent a
crucial email to Lonzo and his father about Foster being unsuccessful in tracking down where $1.5 million in cash has gone. He asked Foster to show the transaction for the amount and Foster never complied. According to ESPN, Lukanga attached two reports to the email that he alleged showed unexplained cash withdrawals from Big Baller Brand and transactions between BBB and Foster’s business, Marathon Consulting Inc. “Over $1.5 million dollars has disappeared and he has wired over $474,000 to himself through Marathon Consulting (see attached report). So close to $2 million dollars has touched Alan’s hands but $1.5 million of it has disappeared in cash and can’t be tracked,” Lukanga wrote. Foster became a family friend for the Ball family almost a decade ago. He worked as the business manager for BBB and other Ball family companies. Lonzo’s father, Lavar Ball said that it was Foster who convinced him to create a shoe and apparel company. Foster also has criminal history that includes a seven-year prison sentence for mail fraud in 2002 and money laundering. JSU basketball player, Khalill
Spencer, junior criminal justice major from Memphis, Tenn., was disheartened when he heard about the crafty situation. “The betrayal of someone who was dear close to the family, like he was would have never seen this coming! It’s like someone you and your dad is cool with and you let them visit your house and you later find out something in your room was stolen, and you find out that it was your dad’s friend. Someone you allowed in your personal comfort zone, and meaningful business just blatant steals from you,” said Spencer. “Everyone knows it is immensely hard to find someone to trust with dealings with their money not to mention their family business. So you would think someone like Alan Foster would be someone you can rely on and trust because of the grown relationship they have built.” He continued, “On the other hand, I am more in shock with disappointment in Lonzo’s representation on not having a correct in-detail background check on the person who was in control of his shares and ties with Big Baller Brand, as well as his father, no matter who the person is to them! In this kind of status in
a family business and with Lonzo Ball being who he is they were more loose with the simple fact of money security on the family business, which highly shocking! I am in total agreements with the decision Lonzo has made to cut Frost from all ties in this business because upon his end nothing is adding up and has yet to give a statement in regards to the missing $1.5 million dollars in cash.” Another JSU student athlete shared a similar opinion. He stated why athletes start their own independent businesses and what he would’ve done if he were in Lonzo’s shoes. “Initially, I feel like the situation in a whole is wrong. Most athletes choose people whom they find loyal and trustworthy to manage their funds, as we can see that’s not always the best choice. This is why up and coming athletes are choosing to manage their own money because the world is a devious place. When you can’t trust the people you grew up around to help you better yourself, who can you trust? said Melvin Hollins, a junior interdisciplinary studies major from Jackson, Miss. He added: “If I was Lonzo Ball, I would pay close attention and manage my own money.”
Loughlin and Huffman at the center of college admissions scandal Halle Coleman
Staff Writer
The college admission process has been breached! News broke on March 12 of a massive multimillion dollar college admission scandal. Thirty wealthy parents have been charged, including university coaches and actresses Felicity Huffman and Lori Loughlin. William “Rick” Singer, the alleged college fixer, is reported to have had more than 700 clients over time. Wealthy parents are accused of paying Singer to assist their children in cheating on college entrance exams such as the ACT and SAT. Singer was paid to gain extra time for his clients through either false claim of a learning disability to gain extra time or by blatantly bribing test officials. He orchestrated situations in which students would take the test at two specific locations in Houston and West Hollywood. At the said locations, administrators of the test were paid bribes of $10,000 per test. If all else failed, to ensure a high score, Singer would arrange for a third person to either take the test in place of the prospective student, give the student the correct answers to the test, or change students answers after the test was taken. Altering results for
these tests is a federal crime. According to npr.com, the role of this third person was most often played by 36-year old Palmetto, Fla. Resident, Mark Riddell. Andrew Lelling, U.S. attorney for the District of Massachusetts, held a press conference addressing the case. “Singer’s clients paid him between $15 thousand and $75 thousand per test. With the payments structured as purported donations to a perpetrated charity that Singer controlled.” Lelling also reports that in many of these instances the students did not know that their parents had arranged for the cheating to take place. Singer’s services additionally included falsifying athletic records to enable students to secure admission into notable schools such as UCLA, USC, Stanford, Yale, and Georgetown. Court documents reveal that Singer paid numerous coaches, including Yale women’s soccer coach, Rudy Meredith, to designate students as recruits for respective sports teams despite knowledge that the students didn’t play the sport competitively. “Full House” actress Lori Loughlin and fashion designer husband Mossimo Giannulli were arrested for allegedly paying Singer $500,000 to make it appear that their daughter Olivia Jade and Isabella Giannulli
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were coxswain recruits for USC’s rowing team in order to ensure their admission to the university. Since the scandal has become public, both Olivia Jade and Isabella have been affected by their parent’s actions. Since school has been back in session, both girls have not returned. Olivia Jade, who is also a popular Youtube beauty vlogger, has lost sponsorship deals with HP, Sephora, TRESemme, and Lulus. “Desperate Housewives” star Felicity Huffman has been accused of making a $15,000 payment to Singer for a test proctor to alter daughter Sophia’s SAT answers.
Huffman was formally arrested on the charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and conspiracy to commit honest services mail fraud. The criminal complaint for the case presents multiple emails and recorded phone conversations proving Huffman’s involvement in the cheating conspiracy. These records date from summer of 2017 into February of this year. Diaisa Dyson, a freshman healthcare administration major from New Orleans, La., has a different perspective of the situation. “Even though it may not be
fair in some eyes, I don’t have anything against it,” she states, “Some people want what’s best for their children and are willing to do so by any means necessary,” said Dyson. Huffman was released on $250,000 bond and is due in federal court April 3. Her husband William Macy has not yet been charged. Loughlin has not yet been arrested, but husband Giannulli was released on bond. Both are scheduled to appear in Court April 15. Neither Loughlin or Huffman have publicly spoke on their charges.
The Blue & White Flash
Page 7 - March 28, 2019
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Sports
Page 8 - March 28, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
2019 NBA Draft Lottery shaping up to be extraordinary
Wakil Atig
Sports Writer Basketball fans in 2019 have witnessed an exciting season. Freshman forward from Duke University, Zion Williamson has taken the basketball world by storm with his exciting game. Everything from 360 slamdunks to his extreme athletic ability, Zion has proven himself this season as one of the most dominant players in NCAA history. Although Zion has had an outstanding season, he is not the only force to be reckoned with in college basketball. The upcoming 2019 Draft class has some outstanding talent like no other draft class. Players like R.J. Barret, Ja Morant, Jarret Culver, De’Andre Hunter and many others look to make their impact on the league in the near future. They look to take on the task of representing the next generation of great players who stand out in the NBA. R.J. Barret is a 6’ 5” point guard from Duke that has tremendous athleticism and quickness. Barret’s quickness along with his long strides in the open court makes him deadly in transition. He causes opponents difficulty because of his ball handling ability and willingness to get to the rim; he can also hit floaters and creative lay-ups with both hands with ease. Barret has been compared so far to NBA players like John Wall and Kyrie Irving because of his finishing ability. The freshman guard is projected to be drafted in
the first round among other Duke players like Zion Williamson. Probably the most anticipated prospect besides Zion in the upcoming 2019 Draft is Ja Morant. Morant is a crafty guard from Murray State that has NBA scouts excited about what he may bring to the next level. Morant stands at 6’3 with the ability to create his own offense and find teammates. His court vision is like no other on the collegiate level which explains why he leads the NCAA with 10.2 assists per game. He also averages an impressive 24.4 points per game. Morant is the first player to average at least 20 points and 10 assists per game since the NCAA started tracking assist in 1983. What makes Morant’s game unique is his fearlessness on both sides of the court. His quick first step puts opponents in comprising defensive positions as he not only attacks the rim, but kick it out to open teammates on the perimeter. He also harasses opponents on defense and forces them to turn the ball over. Morant is compared to the likes of NBA greats like Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo because of his size and skill set. Morant is projected to be chosen at either 2 or 3 in the first round. The most improved player in college this season with promising hopes to be a star on the next level is Texas Tech’s own, Jarret Culver. Culver is an athletic guard that can do a little bit of everything when he’s on the court. Culver has a fairly good
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jump shot. He can score off the dribble, rebound the ball, and play defense. Culver is an overall solid player, but he can use some slight improvements in his decision making and conditioning. He is projected to be drafted between 4 and 10 in the first round. De’Andre Hunter is a solid forward out of the University of Virginia with a unique defensive application. He has an old school basketball approach on defense. Hunter has the size to defend in the post and great versatility to defend on the perimeter. His slashing ability keeps the
defense on their toes along with his ability to shoot. Hunter is not an easy player to guard because of his instincts on the weak side of the rim on offense; on defense he is a skilled shot blocker that rarely commits fouls. Hunter is expected to be a lottery pick in the upcoming draft by the end of the season. He has the defensive intangibles it takes to be more than a role player in the NBA along with scoring ability. He is often compared to Kawhi Leonard. Paul Williams, a sophomore mass communications major from St. Louis, Missouri said: “Ja
Morant is definitely a solid player with great promise on the next level. He is definitely a once in a lifetime player that will impact the game.” Isaiah Davis, a sophomore criminal justice major from Jackson, Mississippi said: “R.J. Barret will definitely have to get stronger in order to be effective in the league. That’s for any player coming from college and entering the pros. I feel like his court vision and playmaking ability sets him apart from other players in college and that’s why he will be special in the league.”
NFL post-season has been filled with trade drama Tamera McCook
Sports Writer
The 2019 NFL postseason has been full of drama to say the least. With the season wrapping up and New England winning it all once again, it was understood that some changes would be made to many teams’ rosters, but no one could have predicted what was on the horizon. With all the drama surrounding multiple superstars in the NFL this season, one in particular stood out; Le’Veon Bell. Bell, last season and prior seasons, was a star running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bell sat out the entire 2018 NFL season. Apparently, Bell expressing his dissatisfaction with his then quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, decided it would be best for him to rest this season. Apparently, Bell wasn’t the only Steeler who felt this way. As reported by theatlantic. com, star receiver Antonio Brown also pushed his way out of Pittsburg after months of friction. According to theringer.com, Bell in 2017, which was his last active season, rushed for 1,291 yards, caught 85 passes for 655 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. That same season he was named first team all pro for the second time. There is no doubt that Bell is the caliber of a player that could change a franchise and he is arguably one of the best running backs in the league. Sitting out this season was frowned upon by many, but the greatest argument was that not playing would cause him to miss out on money. He wanted out of Pittsburg, and he wanted to be healthy in doing so. After sitting out the entire 2018 season, the Pittsburg Steelers traded their star running back to the New York Jets. But he is not the only superstar to jet off this postseason. As one star was about to enter New York, another one was getting ready
to depart. Former New York Giant’s star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. finally got what he has been asking for, or did he? Beckham, over recent years, has had many frustrations with his former team. Due to their lack of effort, not winning games, and him not feeling like he received enough touches, when you couple that with injuries and missing the playoffs anyone would be frustrated. Despite those frustrations he still continued to play at elite level, catching 77 passes for 1,052 yards this season, which was done in just 12 games. Beckham, a three-time pro bowler, is the newest member of the new look Cleveland Browns. He has the opportunity to unite with his former LSU teammate, Jarvis Landry who, according to ESPN, while in college combined for over 4,100 receiving yards in three years. He also gets to work with a fresh, young quarterback in Baker Mayfield which could be pretty exciting for the fans, especially if the offense is even better than they were last season. The Cleveland Browns fans have a lot to be excited about this season actually. Not only have thee Browns acquired a star receiver, they also acquired former Kansas City Chiefs’ Kareem Hunt. According to NFL.com Hunt will miss half the 2019 season for violating the league’s person conduct policy, but once he is able to step back on the field Cleveland might be in talks to take the AFC North. With Mayfield, Beckham, Landry, Hunt, and running back Nick Chubb the Browns’ offense is going to be difficult to contain, but defense is what wins championships; and defensively, the Browns are impressive as well. With the addition of Defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson and Defensive End Olivier Vernon along with Myles Garrett and Larry Ogunjobi Cleveland will finally be in the position to contend again.
It’s FAFSA Time 2019-2020!!
FINANCIAL AID AWARENESS MONTH AT JSU
March 2019
Complete your 2019-2020 FAFSA NOW (before leaving for Summer break), using 2017 federal tax information. To complete your FAFSA, you will need:
If you need assistance with completing your 2019-2020 FAFSA, the Financial Aid Staff is available to assist you Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the Financial Aid Office. We are located on the 1st Floor of B. F. Roberts Hall. You may apply online at: www.fafsa.ed.gov.
• The student's driver's license and social security card. • The student's and spouse’s, if married federal income tax returns for 2017, W-2 forms, and 1099 forms. • The parents' federal income tax returns for 2017, W-2 forms, and 1099 forms. • Current bank statements and mortgage information. • Records relating to stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments. • Documentation of non-taxable income, such as Social Security income, AFDC, and Veterans Benefits. • Business and farm records.