The Blue & White Flash October 27, 2016 by JSU Student Publications

FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE

The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi

www.thejsuflash.com

INSIDE

Vol. 77 / No. 9 OPINION

P re s i d e n t Resignation page 3

NEWS

139th Founders’ Day page 4

October 27, 2016

VA R I E T Y Atlanta TV Show page 5

S P O RT S JSU vs. PV A&M page 8

File Graphic

President Meyers resigns in wake of ﬁnancial inquiries Deirdra Harris Glover Managing Editor

Jackson State University President Carolyn Meyers offered her letter of resignation Oct. 25, after a week’s worth of concerns and speculation regarding the university’s finances and her future at JSU. In her letter addressed to Mississippi Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL) leadership, Meyers cited her “genuine love of and pride in the university,” but offered no reason for stepping down. The IHL Board of Trustees accepted Meyers’ resignation, effective Nov. 1. “We appreciate Dr. Meyers’ service to Jackson State University and wish her well in future endeavors,” said IHL Commissioner Glenn Boyce via press release. The Jackson State University National Alumni Association President Yolanda R. Owens echoed the sentiment. “Under (Meyers’)

leadership, the University has experienced tremendous growth and further established itself as a diverse, technologically-advanced four-year university steeped in history and committed to preparing its students to become global leaders,” said Owens in a press release. Markus Brooks, a freshman criminal justice major from Bloomington, Ill. was shocked by the announcement. “Her contract ended in 2019 and she was a really good person so you only begin to wonder what is the real reason why she left so early,” said Brooks. A nostalgic Oct. 18 memo previously led many to speculate Meyers was leaving the university. It read in part, “As we approach homecoming, I have been thinking about us. Over five years ago, when I came to Jackson State University, I accepted the honor and privilege to serve as the 10th president. I have witnessed the strength and commitment

of our faculty, staff, student body, alumni and friends to this fine institution. I have witnessed our university become One JSU…” The next day, Meyers denied the letter was a farewell and refuted dramatic rumors of being physically removed from her position. “Contrary to one of the deans, I was not escorted off the campus (on October 18th). Amazing to me how creative some are,” Meyers said in an email distributed to staff and faculty. A report presented at the Oct. 20 IHL board meeting showed JSU’s cash reserves— emergency and discretionary funds — dropped from $37 million to $4 million since 2012. “Since May 2014, the board of trustees, the commissioner of higher education and IHL staff have communicated concerns over the university’s financial position to Jackson State University personnel, including the chief financial officer and president,” Boyce

told the Clarion Ledger. “The annual financial statement for (fiscal) 2016 received by IHL staff in August 2016 indicated that the situation has escalated from a concern to a level serious enough to require immediate intervention,” said Boyce. “This is not uncommon,” said JSU spokesperson Olivia Goodheart in an interview with Mississippi Today. “This has happened at other state universities in the past, and they recovered so this is not an unusual circumstance.” IHL hired accounting firm Matthews, Cutrer and Lindsay, to analyze the university’s finance records for the fouryear period from 20122014. JSU administration is also employing measures to add $10 million into the university cash reserves by June 2017. Kahlil Walker, a freshman elementary education major from Jackson, Miss. approves. “It’s good for the university because it’ll bring change. It’ll show the root of the problem

with the money situation, because it’ll show whether or not it was really (Meyers),” said Walker. With more questions than answers, some students are worried. “I’m concerned with the work she has previously done and how this debt affects students,” said Erykah K. Robinson, a sophomore social work major from Chicago. “It’s already hard paying $33,000 each year, and for the quality we get it may not be worth it. This is why I’m transferring (after) this semester,” said Robinson. While some see this turn of events as a reason to take their talents and treasure elsewhere, IHL leadership is not so quick to dismiss the institution. “Students remain our top priority,” said Boyce. “We are confident that Jackson State will move forward and continue to be an excellent institution and source of pride for students, faculty and alumni.”

Concert concerns addressed by Academic and Student Affairs William H. Kelly III Editor-In-Chief

After learning that the Homecoming concert featuring artists Lil’ Wayne and 2Chainz was cancelled, students at Jackson State University wanted to know what went wrong. In wake of all the uproar surrounding the cancellation, SGA President Kendall Bunch wants students to remain positive. “We are disappointed by the cancelled concert but we are working to ensure that the remainder of Homecoming is a success for our student body,” said Bunch. Arron Richardson, interim director of disability services/ ADA, spoke with The Blue & White Flash to explain what happened. According to Richardson, approximately 500 tickets were sold. “We do want the JSU

audience to know that in order for us to have great shows of this caliber, we need our students to get behind us and make a conscience eﬀort in getting and buying tickets,” said Richardson. Richardson explained that funds from the Campus Activity Board were used to pay the promoter and to also purchase 1000 tickets given to students who participated in the canned food drive. “Jackson State has a plan in place to recoup those funds. If you take a look at our track record, all of the shows that we’ve put on the past, our artists have come and we also have had no problems with the promoter. Would I say we crossed all our T’s and dotted our I’s, I would say no, but we wanted to give students a great show and that was always the plan,” Richardson stated. The concert confusion began approximately three

weeks ago when posters advertising the event were taken off social media and other campus outlets. Rumors surfaced at that time that the concert was cancelled. The Flash then discovered an unsolicited copy of the contract with the promoter, Marcell Morton, under the door of the newsroom office. After contacting Student Affairs staff Richardson and Vivian Fuller, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, the Flash was assured that the concert would be held. Later that week, posters appeared again with the concert date moved from Friday, Oct. 28 to Tuesday, Oct. 25. Once again however, social media rumors surfaced that the concert would not take place as scheduled. On the evening of Oct. 24, Lil Wayne posted a picture of the concert flyer Photo: Instagram

Concert, Cont. on pg. 7 YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!

@thejsuflash

Politics

Page 2 - October 27, 2016

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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Please your10 Circuit Vote for ONE Vote for Write-in • Vote APlease tribal for photo ID ID isdate entitled have his/her ballot counted if Forces. checkONE with your Circuit or the ofClerk anto election and may receive Municipal to determine if you are and entitled Jim M. Greenlee Linda F. Coleman • Any other photo ID issued by any branch, he/she presents anballot acceptable form of photo return absentee by mail, email or the fax.ID Doug S. Municipal Crosby Clerk to determine if you are entitled to voteanby an absentee ballot and to learn agency orand entity of thethe United in the Circuit Municipal Clerk’s office activewithin to votedepartment, by an absentee ballot to learn Mississippi was the first to provide procedures forordoing so.state Write-in Write-in George M. Mitchell Jr. TURN BALLOT OVER TO CONTINUE VOTING Statesforgovernment fiveIf (5) days Election Day. procedures doing so. or any State government duty military and overseas ability youbusiness know you willafter votevoters by anthe absentee A Mississippi Voter Identification Card If• you know you will vote by an absentee SPECIAL NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL to receive and anfor absentee ballot ballot, mayreturn contact your Circuit or by Callyou 1-844-MSVoter Voter ID information Write-in ballot, you may contact your Circuit or ELECTION secured-access information, Municipal Clerk’s officeFor atmore any time within 45 or assistance inemail. obtaining a MS Voter ID card. SPECIAL NONPARTISAN Municipal Clerk’s office atJUDICIAL any time within 45 For Chancery Court 1 call the Secretary of State’s Election Hotline at days of the election. ELECTION Chancery Court Judge, District 01, days of the election. 1-800-829-6786 or within visit ourthe website at www.sos. Voters included Uniform and ForVoters Circuit Place 4 included Court within the10 Uniform and ms.gov. Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act Circuit Court Judge, District 10, Vote for ONE (UOCAVA), such as members of the military Place 1 T. K. Moffett Some registered and overseas citizens, may register to vote and Vote for voters ONE are eligible to vote by an absentee ballot because of age, health, work request an absentee ballot by Federal Post Write-in Justin M. Cobb demands, temporary relocation for educational Card Application. UOCAVA voters may register SPECIAL NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL purposes or their affiliation with the U.S. Armed to vote using the FPCA up until 10 days before Write-in ELECTION Forces. Please check with your Circuit or the date of an election and may receive and For Chancery Court 20 SPECIAL NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL SPECIAL NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL Municipal Clerk to determine if you are entitled return an absentee ballot by mail, email or fax. Chancery CourtELECTION Judge, District 20, to vote ELECTION by an absentee ballot and to learn the Mississippi was the first state to provide active1 For Court Place of Appeals Judge Forprocedures Circuit Court for doing so. 11-2 duty military and overseas voters the ability Vote1, for ONE District Position 1 Circuit Court District 11-2 If you Judge, know you will vote by an absentee to receive and return an absentee ballot by OF BALLOT John C. McLaurin VoteJr. for ONE Vote for ONEyour CircuitEND ballot, you may contact or secured-access email. For more information, Municipal Clerk’s office at any time within 45 Jim M. Greenlee Linda F. Coleman call the Secretary of State’s Election Hotline at Jim Nix days of the election. 1-800-829-6786 or visit our website at www.sos. Write-in Write-in Voters included within the Uniform and Write-in ms.gov.

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The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager

KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer

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Letters To The Editor

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libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m.George for publication on Thursday. M. Mitchell Jr. Write-in

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Editorial Staff ELECTION SPECIAL NONPARTISAN Write-in

WILLIAM H. KELLY III Editor- in-Chief

DEIRDRA HARRIS GLOVER Managing Editor

Morgan Beard Demond Lewis Brittany Bullock Jasmine Parham Taya Drummer-Chaney Carlton Shirley Alexandria Galtney Kayla Smith Kendria Haley Aaron Walker Rhis Harris Jonet’ Washington Muhammad Hassan Daniecia Washington Chelsey Jones Jennifer Wiles

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SPECIAL NONPARTISAN NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL JUDICIAL SPECIAL ELECTION ELECTION For Court 51 For Chancery Circuit Court Chancery Court Judge, District 01, Letters to theCourt editor Judge, are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for Circuit District 05, Place Place 24 publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, Vote for ONE Vote fornumber ONE will not be published. All letters are subject to and phone number; phone

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Chancery The Blue &For White Flash is Court open to 20 contributions from all Jackson State University ELECTION Chancery Court Judge, District 20, of major and/or classiﬁcation, to students. We all students, regardless Forencourage Circuit Court 10 Place 1 participate the Vote production of their newspaper. For information concerning your CircuitinCourt Judge, District 10, for ONE 1 Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call contribution to “ThePlace Ofﬁcial John C. McLaurin Jr. Voteroom for211 ONE 601-979-2167 or visit in the Blackburn Language Arts Building. Jim NixM. Cobb Justin

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SPECIAL JUDICIAL The Blue & WhiteNONPARTISAN Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with ELECTION the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of Circuit Court the writer(s).For Views expressed within5 do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Circuit the Court Judge, District faculty/staff, administration, the student 05, body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors OF BALLOT Place 2 determine the time of the publication andEND the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles Vote for ONE and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written Doug S. Crosby permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during George The M. Mitchell Jr. university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and ﬁnal examinations. The Flash is distributed Write-in 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 SPECIAL NONPARTISAN JUDICIAL of Student Publications. ELECTION For Circuit Court 10 Circuit Court Judge, District 10, Place 1 Vote for ONE Justin M. Cobb

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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 - October 27, 2016

The Blue & White Flash

Cartoon: Rhis Harris

Blue World Depression: No money, No concert, No president COMMENTARY

William H. Kelly III Editor-in-Chief

I never thought that I would see the day that my controversial freshman year at Jackson State University would be surpassed but JSU has officially outdone itself. We deserve an Emmy award for the excellence

and achievement in exposure via social media and news. If you were not a student at JSU during the 2014-2015 academic year, I will attempt to give a brief synopsis. We experienced sit-ins and protests due to conflicts and confusion between campus police and students; there was an attempt to impeach our SGA President Keonte Turner; and lastly, a scandal with the Miss JSU pageant ultimately led to all pageant participants being allowed to run for the coveted position. Now, two years later, I sit here shocked, embarrassed, and disgusted at the status of our university, as they continue to “Challenge Minds and Change Lives.” I have people from back home and

other universities asking me what the (bleep) is going on at Jackson State because we’ve been the hot topic for almost a week straight. How can I possibly explain to my family and friends that everything is going just fine when headlines say otherwise? I am currently putting a hold on all recruitment back in Houston because I would hate for my friends and successors to experience this nonsense. Before Dr. Meyers announced her resignation, I could literally physically feel the depression and depletion of student morale in the air. Sadly, I don’t know what is more embarrassing, the fact that we have students contacting news stations

about not getting a concert ticket or that we did not have the scheduled concert AND now do not have a president. Honestly, we as a university and student body need to open our eyes and get our lives together. I refuse to allow the establishment that I have invested in to become a laughing stock, that’s just being real. We have accomplished so much as an HBCU, 139 years worth of achievements at that and it is time to remind ourselves. Homecoming week should not ever be like this, it is supposed to be lit, carefree, and students should barely remember their experiences. Meanwhile, it is the most petty, shady, memorable Homecoming of my college career thus far.

Everyone knows that I am always here for shade but even I need a break, this overflow of mess is just too much to digest. I encourage you all to remain optimistic but realistic during these times. I know that the universe is personally handing us major L’s back to back but we have to stay positive and look to the future. We only get one Homecoming week out of the school year and we have to make the best of it, on our dry campus, and show the commentators (Slawcorn) that we are unbothered and doing perfectly fine as we sing Wayne and 2 Chainz songs outside of the AAC. 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 was your initial reaction to President Meyers’ resignation?” Compiled by Jennifer Wiles and Chelsey Jones

Jayla Lomax Junior Music Technology Jackson, Miss. “I honestly expected it with all the bad publicity the university has received within the past few weeks.”

Kameron Blevins Junior Criminal Justice Compton, Cali. “I was like ‘yes oh yes I’m so happy’ and that’s the best news I’ve had all homecoming since Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz did not come.”

Michael Taylor Freshman Theatre Chicago, Ill.

Tyler Harden Junior Marketing Hattiesburg, Miss.

“Yeah I was like what do we do now, but when I first found out I started laughing.”

“Initially, I was pleased. Dr. Meyers and some of her administration recently continuously failed students, our state, and our mission statement. But then I reﬂected on the progress JSU has made under her presidency and became skeptical as to what the future may hold.”

“Wow, I was glad that she left because there was entirely too much drama going on.”

Chadijah Craig Junior Music Education

Sheldon Colbert Senior LaPlace, La.

Justin Bond Sophomore Meteorology Chicago, Ill.

Elijah Thompson Senior Computer Science Decatur, Ga.

“I dont feel too much toward the subject matter, but I’m sure she’ll ﬁnd opportunities elsewhere.”

“When I first received the news, I was appalled but at the same time, I knew she had to go.”

“I don’t really know much of her and I’ve heard more negatives than positives but overall, I’m indifferent.”

“When I received the news, I was disappointed because she’s done a lot for the band, but it was unfortunate that she left in the midst of more than a few major issues.”

Charlotte, North Carolina

Computer Engineering

John Pendleton Higgins II

Junior Elementary Edu. Madison, Miss.

Tamarcus Lott Senior Mass Communication Memphis, Tenn. “I thought it was untimely it’s the middle of homecoming and that type of publicity is negative for the student environment in a time of rejoice and celebration.”

Erica Procter Sophomore Mass Communication Hattiesburg, Miss. “I felt a sense of joy when I read Meyers email, it was pure joy. Excitement cannot even explain my emotions.”

Robert Small Junior Criminal Justice Mobile, Ala. “I felt that it was a hard decision with both parties but greater things are coming. We shall overcome.”

News

Page 4 - October 27, 2016

The Blue & White Flash

Butler-McIntyre delivers electrifying Founders’ Day address

Kendria Haley and Roderick McNair MC301 Contributors/ Staff

Praising the many accomplishments of Jackson State University, Dillard University alumnae, Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre, delivered a Founders’ Day address that audience members will not soon forget. The event on Oct. 20 celebrating JSU’s 139 years of existence, begin with the ceremonial Bell Ringing Service. Students and other attendees watched as the esteemed processional entered the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center led by executive cabinet members, that included President Carolyn W. Meyers, deans, administrators, and faculty. Student Government Association President Kendall Bunch delivered the occasion. “Let us never forget how far we have come and all that we have accomplished. And while we reflect, let us never get tired on this journey, because it is the journey of the past that helped us reach the present, and it is the journey of the present that will lead us to the future,” said Bunch. After an address from Miss JSU Destiney Lawrence and a stirring rendition of Halleujah from the JSU Chorale, Butler-McIntyre took the stage and the attention of every person in attendance with a highenergy speech that included the often repeated mantra “J. S. U. space in between”.

Photo: William H. Kelly III Keynote speaker Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre rallies the audience during the 139th Founders’ Day Convocation inside the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center on Thursday. She urged the audience to fully embrace its alma mater.

The topic for Butler- School district after 20 years McIntyre’s address was of service. She also served as “When are you going to say the 24th National President something?” of the Delta Sigma Theta “I read in an article that Sorority, Inc., from July 2008 Jackson State had reached an - July 2013. enrollment of 10,000 students With a speech reminiscent becoming one of the largest of a sermon heard on Sunday HBCU’S in the nation. Ya’ll have “I read in an article that Jackson something to say! State had reached an enrollment of Ya’ll have something to say,” said Butler10,000 students becoming one of McIntyre. the largest HBCU’S in the nation. Butler-McIntyre, Ya’ll have something to say!” a native of New - Cynthia M.A. Butler-McIntyre Orleans, La., graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from morning from a Baptist Dillard University and also minister, Butler-McIntryre earned a master’s degree said, “Today, today, today is from the University of New Founders’ Day at Jackson State Orleans, all before age 20. University, we are celebrating She recently retired from the founding of this the Jefferson Parish Public university. Today we pause

to provide an opportunity for us to reflect about the history and the heritage of this great university.” Butler- McIntyre stressed the importance of having pride in the school’s rich heritage. Using the example of JSU’s seal and mace, she explained that the seal and mace were only for JSU and they set the university apart from any other university, therefore making it one of a kind. “That’s what a good J.S.U., space in between, education will do for you, set you free,” Butler- McIntyre said when she explained the significance of the outspread wings on the university seal. Some of the students attending the program said that event was the best

Founders’ Day program they have attended. “I really enjoyed Dr. Butler-McIntyre. Originally, I only came just to get extra credit for my class but as the program went on, it made me proud to be a part of the JSU family,” said Stephen Thomas, a senior engineering major from Mobile, Ala. Thomas added, “My favorite part was when she touched on the topics of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile. I think that everyone that was in the room could relate to those points.” Other students commented on the importance of the Founders’ Day celebration. “Not only does the Founders’ Day celebration acknowledge the great accomplishments of those before us, but it also paves the path ahead for current and future students. It brings everyone and everything together in pride,” said Rhis Harris, a freshman art major from Jackson, Miss. Shakara Perry, senior therapeutic recreation major from Natchez, Miss. said, “I believe that it is important to celebrate Founders’ Day because it reminds us of how far we have come as an institution. It’s a great way to display our appreciation for our abundant opportunities.” Marquis Reed, a senior criminal justice major from Port Gibson, Miss. attended the event and had this to say. “We came together today to celebrate the legacy of Jackson State; our past, our present and our future. I am beyond proud to be a part of it,” Reed said.

SGA, Sonic Boom lead hundreds during memorial vigil for Mannery L.A. Warren University Communications More than 600 students at Jackson State University, including the Sonic Boom, gathered for a vigil on the Gibbs-Green Memorial Plaza on Thursday night to pay respects to the family of 20-year-old Devon Mannery, a former member of the marching band who passed away recently in a car crash. A number of people recalled Mannery, a junior physical education major from Jackson, as a friendly presence on campus with an infectious smile. He was affectionately known as “Cujo.” The evening consisted of prayer, singing, reflections, a balloon release and a solemn yet inspiring musical tribute by the Boom in honor of their fellow member. Mannery’s 17-year-old brother Joshua, a senior at Murrah High School, delighted the crowd with his humorous take on growing up with Devon, describing himself as smarter and Devon as stronger. In reality, Joshua said he learned three things from his older brother: (1) how to dress, including wearing a suit; (2) how to walk into

a room “as if you owned it because Devon – who acted like a third parent – had the “biggest short man complex in the world,” said Joshua to rousing laughter; and (3) how to become a leader so that he could one day run the country as president of the United States. For now, however, Joshua said he will focus on assuming his newest role as his other siblings’ next big brother. “I have to be the backbone of the family now. It will be hard, but I know that everything I learned from Devon over the years will help make things OK. I’m sure he’s looking down from heaven right now and proud that we’re all here acknowledging him.” Speaking for the Mannery family, he told the JSU crowd “we all love you.” Another relative, Shelia Duffy, described the vigil as “an awesome experience.” She said she wants everyone to remember the life and legacy of Devon because “he was a great young man whose family was proud of him.” Originally, she said she was dreading the upcoming weekend funeral but found solace by attending the campus event. “This night made it all worthwhile.” Furthermore, she said the presence of the Boom spoke

Photo: William H. Kelly III Seventeen-year-old Joshua Mannery, third from left, joins friends and supporters on JSU’s campus who gathered to remember his brother Devon. The vigil was held Thursday on the Gibbs-Green Memorial Plaza with more than 600 people in attendance.

volumes about the character of her cousin. Kendrick Spencer, assistant vice president of JSU’s Student Affairs, said he was overjoyed with the number of people who showed up on the breezy evening. “Anytime we lose a Tiger, it’s devastating to JSU’s family. But it’s great how students came together with strength and the power of prayer.” It was a message reiterated by SGA President Kendall Bunch, who said this celebration shows the level of JSU’s compassion

for Devon’s family. “If someone is hurt, we’re here for them. For anyone who needs us, we will continue to be there. We presented a resolution saying that Devon will forever be a part of Jackson State. Despite the sorrow, we feel a sense of joy with everyone showing up tonight.” Jeniera Parker, a junior accounting major from Centreville, said Devon was her classmate and friend. She described him as a delightful person who touched many hearts and said the attendance at this event shows just how close

he was to everybody. “Even if he just spoke to you, he left an impact, whether it was a ‘hi’ or a ‘bye.’ ” Parker said that while she recognized people are hurt they shouldn’t be discouraged or question God. “Just know that it will get better.” Meanwhile, Joshua Mannery said he would always remember this day because he now knows that Devon made a difference in a lot of people’s lives because they considered Devon as a brother, too. “He was as popular on JSU’s campus as he was to our family,” Joshua said.

1) JSU students take turns writing tributes on a message board in remembrance of Devon. 2) Other JSU students in the massive crowd penned their expressions in dedication to their lost friend. Photos by William H. Kelly III

The Blue & White Flash

Variety

Page 5 - October 27, 2016

“Atlanta” television show soars in ratings Morgan Beard Staff Writer

After nine months of countless advertisements exhilarating viewers everywhere, “Atlanta” was finally released on television on Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2016. The comedydrama television series was created by and stars Donald Glover. Paul Simms and Dianne McGunigle serve as executive producers. Glover, a man of many talents, started work as a writer on “30 Rock” in 2006 before landing a starring role on “Community” from 2009 to 2014. He has been nominated for Grammys for his music as a hiphop artist, releasing three albums under the alias Childish Gambino and he is also a stand-up comedian. The show centers on Earnest “Earn” Marks (Donald Glover), a young Princeton dropout turned manager who tries to redeem himself in the eyes of his girlfriend Van (Zazie Beetz) and mother of his

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daughter, his parents and his cousin, Alfred “ Paper Boi” Miles (Brian Henry). Having dropped out of Princeton, Earn has no money and no home, and alternates between staying with his parents and his girlfriend. Keith Stanfield stars as Darius, Alfred’s righthand man and visionary.

Brooke Felix Sophomore Biology Gulfport, Miss. • Concert • Greek Step Show • Parade Justin Bonds Sophomore Meteorology Chicago, Ill. • Parade • Game • Street Jam Gerson Guevara Sophomore Urban Studies Oxon Hill, Miss. • Street Jam • Game • Greek Step Show Sada Longino Senior Social Work Prentiss, Miss. • Tailgating • Street Jam • Game

Laura Burns Senior Social Work Forrest County, Miss. • Pep Rally • Parade • Miss JSU Coronation

Once Earn realizes that his cousin is on the verge of becoming the hottest new rapper, he desperately seeks to reconnect in order to improve his life and the life of his daughter. The two cousins work through the Atlanta music scene in order to better their lives and the lives of their families. Ramone Ward, a

sophomore business administration major from Atlanta, Ga., said, “When I first heard about the show, I was a little bit stand-offish because I don’t really mess with Childish Gambino like that, but when I started watching the show, I immediately loved it. Everything portrayed in the show was just like how

things are in the city.” Earn’s immediate needs take precedence mainly, scraping together enough money to pay rent, preserve his relationship with Van and save what he can for his kid. His friends seem content to do the same. Kwame Bowens, a senior criminal justice major from Atlanta, Ga., is a big fan of the show. “The show reminds me of home while I’m away from home. Childish is my guy musically and comically, so I have to mess with it,” said Bowens. According to indiewire. com, while not a problem from a strictly creative standpoint, this kind of storytelling has proven too trying for a generation of viewers accustomed to constant entertainment. Based on the first five episodes, the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes gives the first season an approval rating of 100%, based on 54 reviews, with an average rating of 8.9/10.

JSU Founders’ Day & Toga Party

The Blue & White Flash

9. 1.-6.) The 139th Founders’ Day Convocation was filled with excitement and happiness. 7.-9.) Homecoming week starts off on Monday with the Toga Party was held at the John A. Peoples’ lawn. Photos by William H. Kelly III

Concert

Cont. from pg.1

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with the word cancelled across it, sparking many student concerns that the concert was off. On Tuesday, Oct. 25, the day of the concert, University officials released a statement confirming the cancellation of the concert via social media. Richardson stated: “We never wanted to cancel the concert. We understand that all of our students at Jackson State want and deserve a concert and Academic and Student Affairs wanted to give the students not only a good concert but a great concert, but unfortunately the promoter didn’t meet his end of the deal in closing the artists with payments.” Richardson added: “Mr. Marcell Morton was not totally honest with us in the beginning but we wanted to give the students the show and the plan was to give students the show up until Monday when the artists didn’t receive the last payment. In good faith, Mr. Morton sent the artists money, so when you send artists a substantial amount of money you are intending that the rest of the money will come. If you Google search him (Morton), there are shows that did not happen but there are also shows that did happen.” According to the contract, the promoter, Marcell Morton, who has previous and ongoing lawsuits for cancelled events and concerts, is associated with Events Experts LLC. Under the list of duties and obligations on the contract it states that Morton, “is responsible for securing the Artist and Venue. In addition, the promoter is responsible for creating, organizing, coordinating, and broadcasting and/or dissemination of all advertising materials promoting the event to the public. The Promoter is also responsible for onsite management of the event which includes ticket sales and the handling, control, custody and keeping of said receipts/ proceeds there from until their disbursement at time of Settlement.” It also states under the Miscellaneous section that “If the Event is canceled due to circumstances not under the direct or immediate control of the Promoter, Co-Promoter shall be entitled to a full return of his services from the party or parties responsible for the

Event’s cancellation…Promoter shall return Co-Promoter’s ticket purchases in full.” Richardson stated the university is moving forward with recouping the funds given to Morton and putting a plan in place to make sure issues like this do not reoccur. “It is our intention moving forward to make it right with the students, however that may be. We have met and we wanted to let the students know that we want to give them a great Homecoming and that’s the plan and I know sometimes when you are trying to make it right with students that whatever you are trying to do may spill over Homecoming,” said Richardson. He added: “We want the students to know that we are here to support them, we want them to have a great Homecoming, we want the football team to win, we want a victory, and we want to end Homecoming on a good note.” Richardson ended by saying, “We will not let this happen again on our watch.” Many students on campus expressed disappointment and embarrassment for the University regarding the concert cancellation. Brooke Felix, a sophomore biology major from Gulfport, Miss. said, “I am highly disappointed. It is also very embarrassing to the school’s name.” Other students stated that after receiving information just last week on Founders’ Day that the school was facing financial issues, this news was another blow to students’ already low morale. Eddreka Gillem, a senior biology major from Leland, Miss. said, “We are just taking L after L, I was really looking forward to the concert.” Ryun Moore, a sophomore computer science major from Jackson, Miss. said, “It is a big disappointment to the student body of JSU. We are headlining enough and this really makes us look bad.” On Oct. 26, students were informed via email and social media that Jackson State University will give refunds to students who purchased tickets for the Homecoming concert inside the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center (AAC) on the main campus between 1-4 p.m. Students had to show proof of purchase by showing the ticket.

Sports

Page 8 - October 27, 2016

The Blue & White Flash

JSU to meet Prairie View A&M for Homecoming game Morgan Beard Staff Writer The Jackson State University Tigers will take on the Panthers of Prairie View A&M for Homecoming 2016. The Panthers bring in a (4-3) overall record with (4-1) record in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play. PVAM is coming off a hard fought 65-44 lost to the Owls of Rice University. Prairie View has victories over Texas Southern 2925, Alabama State 24-27 in overtime, Mississippi Valley State 56-21, and Alabama A&M 41-20. The Panthers have the third best scoring offense and total offense in the SWAC. Prairie View is led by freshman quarterback Jalen Morton, who was

named last week’s SWAC Newcomer of the Week. In last week shootout lost to FBS opponent Rice, Morton posted a career-high 325 total yards of offense (career-high 278 passing, 47 rushing) and three total touchdowns. The Panthers have wide receiver duo in juniors Joshua Simmons and KhaDarel Hodge, who gave the Tigers problems in last year’s match up. Simmons is ranked third in the SWAC for all-purpose yards. Last Year, PVAM defeated Jackson State 56-14. In 2014, PVAM defeated JSU 48-30. To win this weekend’s game, the Tigers will need to score fast and cut down on the turnover mistakes. The offensive line will have to continue leading the way for the three headed

running attack the Tigers have in senior Joshua Bates, junior Robert Johnson IV, and freshman Jordan Johnson. The Tiger’s defense should continue taking the ball away and continue forcing pressure on the quarterback. Junior Keontre Anderson ranked 2nd in the SWAC in tackles for loss with 10. Senior allSWAC DE/LB Javancy Jones ranked #3 in the SWAC with 8.5 tackles for loss and he leads the Tigers in total tackles. The Homecoming game will take place this Saturday at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Miss. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. To listen to the game on radio, tune into 95.5 FM and to watch the game live on television tune into Livestream on JSUTV.

Photo: Charles A. Smith

JSU Tigers upset Texas Southern at their Homecoming

Photo: JSU Athletics Media The JSU football team brings home a spectacular win.

Morgan Beard Staff Writer The Jackson State University Tigers upset Texas Southern on a goal line stand that secured a 2113-road victory at BBVA Compass Stadium. With 10,121 fans in attendance, the victory was the Tigers’ sixth in a row in the series and allowed them to match their season total from last year with four regular season games left. JSU is now (3-4) overall and (3-2) in Southwest Athletic

Conference (SWAC) play. This win moved JSU into a tie with Alcorn State, which had a bye week, for the lead in the SWAC’s Eastern division. The Tigers are in this position because of senior strong safety Preston Hughes from Daphne, Ala., who came up with his second interception of the game. Junior quarterback Jarin Morikawa from Mililani, Hawaii started the game with 18 of 25 passes for 165 yards. In the first quarter Morikawa threw

an interception to set up Texas Southern with a four yard Hurts to Smalls touchdown pass, giving TSU the first score in the game 7-0 with 9:20 seconds on the clock. Freshman quarterback Juwan Adams from Summit, Miss., also saw action at quarterback with 3 for 3 passes for 12 yards and 3 rushers for 13 yards with 4.3 yards per average. Jackson State responded fast with a 1 yard touchdown run by junior running back Robert Johnson from Terry, Miss., with

1:46 left in the first quarter. Also rushing the ball was senior running back Joshua Bates from Jackson, Miss,. who rushed 8 times for 49 yards and freshman running back Jordan Johnson from Terry, Miss,. who led the team in rushing yards with 4 carries for 78 yards. The rushing attack combined for 161 yards on the ground. This was the first time a JSU running back has scored two rushing touchdowns in a single game this year.

Senior wide receiver Jairus Moll from Laplace, La., lead the team in receiving yards with 5 catches for 53 yards on 10.6 yards per catch average. TxSU answered back with a 49 yard field goal (10-7) in the 2nd quarter with 5:32 left on the clock. The Tigers defense contained TxSU to 96 rushing yards on the ground and 105 passing yards with 201 yards combined. In the third quarter, Robert Johnson, a 2 yard rushing touchdown to give the JSU Tigers a 14-10 lead with 2:58 left on the clock. Senior LB/DE Javancy Jones from Macon, Miss., posted 8 total tackles, with 3 coming behind the line of scrimmage. He also took down the quarterback twice in the contest. Jones was also honored as SWAC Defensive Player of the Week. In the 4th quarter,TxSU kicker Eric Medina connected on a 38 yard field goal to put the score at 14-13 with 13: 32 left on the clock. On the next drive, Jackson State moved the ball down the field. The next play Jordan Johnson scored on a 55 yard touchdown to increases the lead 21-13 with 11:24 on the clock. From there both teams really couldn’t find another way to scored with teams both defensives causing problems. At the last minutes of the fourth quarter there were many penalties that gave TxSU the opportunity to score at the goal line. On each play TxSU try to pass the ball in the end zone and was not successful on each try. On 4th down with 18 seconds left on the clock senior saftey Preston Hughes picked oﬀ the pass to give the Tigers their third win of the season.