Vol. 76 / No. 4
September 17, 2015
Photo: Shane Savannah Jason Abrams, a represenatitive from the Youth for Christ organization, at the Community in Action Fair.
Community in Action fair links students with agencies Over 50 community partners urged students to volunteer and serve
Shane Savannah Staff Writer Jacks on St ate University students le ar ned how t he y could s er ve at t he C ommunity in Ac tion (CIA) Fair on S ept. 10 in t he Student C enter ballro oms. Hosted by t he Alice V. Harden C enter for S er vice and C ommunity Engaged L e ar ning, t he goa l of t he fair is to assist students wit h f inding suit able s er vice sites. Approximately 50 p ar tners/agencies f illed t he ro om wit h display t ables t hat showcas ed t heir organization to hundreds of students in attendance. S ome of t he agencies p ar ticipating included: Addie McBr yde
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Rehabilit ation C enter for t he Blind, AIDS He a lt hcare Foundation, Big Brot hers Big Sisters of MS, G o o d Samar it an C enter, MS D epar tment of Archives & Histor y, Nat iona l Alliance on Ment a l Il lness MS and many on-campus depar tments “ The Alice Var nado Harden C enter for S er vice and C ommunity Engaged L e ar ning promotes al l students toward improving t he human condit ion t hroug h civic engagement. Since, e ver y student graduating f rom Jacks on St ate University must have 120 ver if iable s er vice hours to graduate (60 hours for transfer students); we have e vents like t he C ommunity in Ac tion Fair (CIA) s o
JSU Events............ 2
t hat e ach student can b e come fami liar wit h t he community p ar t ners,” s aid Kimb erly Har r is, S er vice Learning/Community S er vice Res ource Sp e cialist/ NSE C o ordinator. Har r is adde d: “Students are g iven t he opp or tunity to t a l k to e ach par t ner/agenc y pres ent, le ar n w hat typ es of s er vices e ach agenc y provides, and p erhaps t he students wi l l f ind an agenc y in w hich t he y wou ld li ke to e ar n t heir community s er vice and/ or s er vice-le ar ning hours. Fac u lty and st af f were als o g iven an opp or tunity to sp e ak wit h t he agencies and p erhaps f ind w hich agencies are a “b est-f it” for t heir resp e c te d dis ciplines. And f ina lly, t he community
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Scandal................ 7
p ar tners/agencies are given t he opp or tunity to network wit h b ot h pr ivate and public s ec tors, but more imp or t ant ly, t he y t alk wit h t he students and hop ef ul ly, get s ome volunteers r ig ht on t he sp ot. It’s a “win-win” for e ver yone.” Jas on “Smile y” Abrams, a repres ent ative for t he Jacks on Yout h for Chr ist, was one of t he many p eople of fer ing community s er vice opp or tunities at t he fair. This organization, w hich was st ar ted wit h t he help of Bi l ly Graham, is one of two of its kind in t he st ate of Mississippi and has b een around since t he 1940s. “We us e dif ferent typ es of interac tive attentiong rabbing games to help t he children le ar n ab out
Jesus in a f un way. For example, one game we us ed was having a comp etition of s eeing w ho could e at a caramel-covered onion t he fastest,” s aid Abrams. Akil Shaw, a junior environment al engineer ing major f rom Memphis, Tenn. s aid he was ple as ed to s ee al l t he ways and agencies students could cho os e f rom to f ulf ill t he community s er vice requirement. “I got t he chance to sign up for community s er vice at t he Civil Rig hts Mus eum. I t hin k t his was a gre at e vent to help p eople f ind community s er vice b efore t he y graduate,” s aid Shaw. Kyeisha D ennis was ver y CIA Fair, Continued on page 7
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The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
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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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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.
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The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
“Do you think an additional commuter parking lot should be constructed?” Compiled by Myuna Jones & Haley Thomas
Aspen Wilson Junior Mass Communication Memphis, Tenn.
“I think that they should invest in a commuter parking lot.”
Michael Moore Junior Marine Biology Milwaukee, Wis.
“The school should invest in commuter parking lot but for long-term invest in a parking garage.”
Morgan Taylor Biology/Pre-Nursing Sophomore Marietta, Ga.
“I do not believe JSU should invest in a commuter parking lot. I think they should invest in more housing.”
Maya lee Sophomore History Jackson, Miss.
“I think if JSU is not going to improve Stewart Hall then they should tear it down and make it into a parking lot and give students there own assigned parking spots.”
Tia Jackson Senior Criminal Justice Lexington, Miss.
“I think the school should invest in parking for all, not just the commuters.”
Kierra Watkins Junior Biology/pre-med Jackson, Miss.
“I believe Jackson State should invest and make parking a first priority since they are enrolling more students, the school needs to build more parking lots.”
Emoni Harris Sophomore Chemistry Forensic Jackson, Miss.
“The school should invest in a parking garage.”
Gabriella Mason Senior Psychology Memphis, Tenn.
“I think the school needs a bigger commuter parking lot and more parking for students because students are getting tickets but we have no parking spots.”
Patrice Hudson Junior Finance Kansas City, Mo.
“I believe the school should use all the available parking spots for student’s, commuter and noncommuters.”
Douglas Williams Junior Computer Engineering Kalamazoo, Mich.
“JSU should tear down Stewart Hall and make another parking lot.”
Stephen Diew Junior Biology Pre-Med Yazoo, Miss.
“I agree with the parking garage. It’s clearly not enough space to build another one so the only other option is to go up.”
Jazmine Thomas Senior Psychology Milwaukee, Mich.
“I believe that we do need parking and freshmen should not be able to have cars because they outnumber us and they are going to live on campus anyway.”
Cartoon: Kristen Hudson
#TheeILove JSU Parking Chronicles COMMENTARY
William Kelly Associate Editor I personally do not own a car here in Mississippi, but from the second I stepped on campus I was made aware of the parking struggles of students and just how real it is. I have witnessed students placing cones in a parking spot that they did not want to lose to another student thirsty for a parking space and other students who drive up and down lanes hoping, wishing and praying for someone to exit a spot. Because of parking issues, which I must say
are not unique to Jackson State University, some colleges and universities have issued car bans for freshmen and even sophomores. JSU is not one of these institutions. I’m starting to think that a ban on freshmen drivers may not be a bad idea. Each year it seems that the freshmen class increases in number, therefore exacerbating an already bad situation. Incoming college students usually look forward to bringing their whip to school and not having to rely on others for transportation. Some lucky freshmen received cars a graduation gifts so learning that they wouldn’t be able to bring their cars that first year might be a hard to pill to swallow, but we all have to make sacrifices for the greater good of the University. The endless drive to search for a parking spot, rising gas prices, purchasing a parking decal (which does not guarantee a parking spot), receiving parking tickets
for not having the $50 decal and/or for parking illegally due to the lack of parking, could be solved if students would consider leaving their vehicles at home. Still not convinced? Consider this. You have to pay for new tires every few weeks because Jackson streets are in dire need of repair with potholes everywhere and last but not least, all the repairs for wrecks, break-ins, and tune-ups. Clearly having a car on campus can cause added stress. I will gladly avoid all of these issues and continue to ask for rides when needed, any day. For my mom and grandparents, I hate to say it but you were right to make me leave the car home, who needs it right? I’ll just sip my tea in Tiger Plaza with a car-free school year.
The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
News
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The Blue & White Flash
Outspoken encourages students to speak up sees a positive future for the organization. “I think the organization this year will thrive through unity, because there are a lot of people who now have to become leaders in the organization. As long as we have unity in the organization, we will thrive and I definitely feel that the executive board will do a great job this year,” said Rosser. Aspiring member, Andre Dyson II, a freshman computer engineering major
something to look up to and it makes you feel like you have somewhere to belong,” said Dyson. The Outspoken Keleigh Williams, a junior organization at Jackson psychology major from Sierra State University showcased Vista, Ariz., has used her their talents during a fall participation with the group interest show held on Sept. to help overcome her fear of 7 and informed potential speaking in public. members of what it takes to be “I prepare for a show by outspoken. getting my pieces critiqued by the During the “OUTSPOKEN other members of Outspoken Presents: Pass Thee Vibes,” and just altering my act until show, current members I feel like its appropriate entertained students with and ready for the show,” a collection of original said Williams. poetry and music. “To get rid of As long as we have unity in the organization, nervousness, I “Our main focus for this school year is getting back distract myself we will thrive and I definitely feel that the to our roots and becoming and play games more conscience within executive board will do a great job this year. on my phone our shows. We want to be until it’s my turn.” - Jonathon Rosser able to stay new age and A question perform spoken word, and answer but we also don’t want session was our crowd to leave without a from Anderson, Ind., shared a held at the end of the event. message. We don’t want our few things about the arts. Potential members asked crowd to leave without being “There are two different questions about auditions, the educated on certain topics,” ways to look at it, the average content of the piece, and much said NaTosha Devon, a senior student or someone like me. more. Outspoken members theatre major from Chicago, For the average student it’s responded by informing Ill. and also the current probably something that’s aspiring members to not be president of Outspoken. entertaining and like ‘Yo, I afraid to approach them and Jonathon Rosser, former could do that. But for someone ask for guidance when needed. president and JSU alumnus, like me who actually loves Outspoken plans to hold returned to perform at the poetry, it’s like ‘Yo, I could be auditions for new members event. He stated that he like that one day’. It gives you from Oct. 1-2.
Jennifer Wiles Staff Writer
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Photo: William Kelly Outspoken member performs during interest show.
JSU will host ‘The President’s Own’ United States Marine Band University Communications The Department of Music at Jackson State University will host a free concert performance by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, in the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium. Although the event is free, tickets (limit 4) are required and may be reserved and printed at USMB Tour. Dr. David Akombo, chair of the JSU Music Department, said, “We consider it an honor to host the United States Marine Band. We believe the local community will be enriched by a concert from musicians of the highest caliber.” Established in 1798 by an Act of Congress signed by President John Adams, the United States Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. The band made its White House debut on New Year’s Day in 1801 and has performed at the inauguration
of every president since Thomas Jefferson, who is credited with giving the band the title “The President’s Own.” In 1891, the band’s legendary 17th director, John Phillip Sousa, led the Marine Band on its first concert tour. As a result, for more than 100 years, the Marine Band has toured throughout the United States, participating in more than 500 public and official performances each year. Marine Band concerts offer a unique blend of traditional concert band and contemporar y wind ensemble music suitable for people of all ages and musical tastes. Patrick Rettger, instructor of music at JSU, is completing his dissertation on the topic of premier bands and is the key organizer for this event. He said, “I was delighted to be contacted to help work out all of the details necessary to secure a date on their national concert tour schedule.” Rettger knows firsthand about the rigors of joining
Photo: University Communications Established in 1798, the United States Marine Band is the oldest continuously active professional musical organization in America.
the Marine Band. He spent four years as an active duty serviceman in the U.S. Army and now plays in the National Guard 41st Band. He auditioned for a spot as a tuba player with the U.S. Marine Band a few years ago. He was
among 132 others vying for the single opening. “They are simply one of the best bands performing in the world today. The level of musicianship is just incredible.” Each year, in conjunction with the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, an
annual concerto competition is held for high school musicians. The winner appears as a guest soloist with the U.S. Marine Band and receives a cash prize. For more information, please call 601-979-2141 or 601-979-2142.
The Blue & White Flash
News
Page 5 - September 17, 2015
The importance of flu shots on college campuses
Jhade’ Norris MC Contributor/Staff Writer The month of October is approaching which means flu season is right around the corner. Although getting a flu shot or the flu is most likely the last thing on a college students’ mind, it is very important.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Seasonal influenza vaccines are often available but fewer than half of Americans will get the vaccines according to the CDC. Getting the flu vaccine prevents a widespread outbreak on college campuses as well as in communities and other places heavily populated with people. “We give flu shots every year. We order the flu shots and the only problem we have is that students don’t take advantage of getting the flu shot,” said Ollie L. Harper, nurse practitioner and director of nurses at the Jackson State University Health Center said, “When students don’t get flu shots or make excuses not to get
one, it increases their chances of getting sick, students need to consider this because they’re living in close proximity with other students,” said Harper. Nurse Harper also stated that because students do not know what illnesses other students may have, preventative measures should be taken to avoid getting sick. Harper stated that some students and people in general are not receptive to the fact that they do not know what strain of the virus they will be given in the vaccine. Jarvis Generette, a junior
mass communication major from Jackson, Miss. stated that although he is uncomfortable with the idea of the actual flu vaccine being introduced to his body, he gets the shot to avoid illness. “I do get flu shots. I just do not think they are important and I am uncomfortable with the idea of the flu virus being injected to me,” said Generette. Other students feel the benefits outweigh the negatives. “Flu shots are important and I make sure that I get
mine yearly,” said Teria Dase, a junior communicative disorders major from Heidelberg, Miss. The price for the average flu shot is $25. The Jackson State University Health Center offers the vaccine for the same price and students can pay for it out of pocket or have it charged to their accounts. You can also get the flu vaccine from your local drug store or doctor’s office. For more information regarding getting the flu vaccine from JSU Health Services, call 601-979-2260.
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JSU welcomes nations to its annual international symposium University Communications Representatives from 22 countries joined dignitaries at the 12th annual International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research sponsored by Jackson State University at the downtown Marriott Hotel. The event, Sept. 13-16, is a gathering of environmental and biomedical scientists and public health specialists, whose aim is to develop global solutions to complex challenges of the 21st century. Paul B. Tchounwou, symposium chair and JSU’s associate dean of the College of Science, Engineering and Technology, said, “We expect to have a very productive gathering this week because what we discuss here is important for the city, state and nation. We’re trying to address issues of interest to the general public. Researchers from 22 countries will share their new discoveries in environmental and public health.” As visitors prepared for presentations from five continents, Tchounwou emphasized that government, too,
plays a critical role in addressing health issues. JSU President Carolyn W. Meyers also extended greetings. “The promise that each of you brings with new technology will help Mississippi and the rest of world live comfortably on this planet. This symposium will also benefit our students, who are our next generation of leaders. It’s a great opportunity for them to meet distinguished scientists, researchers and big thinkers. You
will inspire and push them to go even further. That’s what we do at Jackson State University. We challenge minds and change lives.” Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant expressed delight that the event could have major implications for the state, particularly with the medical environment and public health system. “Mississippi is not lagging behind. We put $2 million into this great urban university because medicine is such a
dynamic part of Jackson. We hope to have a medical center corridor that will rival Knoxville, Tenn., or Houston. We have the capability,” he said. Bryant also touted the success of the state’s 175 telemedicine locations, citing the innovation as one of only seven states in the nation with an A-rating and a successful method for providing health care to rural areas. Also, he said with the aging baby-boomer population, health care is ever so
Photo: Charles A. Smith Participants representing 22 nations took part in the12th annual International Symposium on Recent Advances in Environmental Health Research.
vital. “Our success with telemedicine may surprise some people because that’s not the typical narrative for Mississippi, but we’re among the leaders. … Mississippi should not be held back by the bigotry of low expectations.” As for addressing environmental issues, Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber told conferees, “Our city really needs you to do well … We have not made the necessary advancements in technology. As it relates to environmental justice, we need to be in front of needle.” As well, Yarber said, “We’ve got some real issues, so we need you to be the best and the brightest so that people understand that Jackson, Mississippi, is a place where people can invest their time, talent and resources. If you can solve the problems in Jackson, you can solve problems anywhere.” Among other topics being explored by the experts include the causes of human cancer, blood levels in pre- and postKatrina New Orleans, treatment of diabetes, HIV pathogenesis and health effects of low-dose radiation.
News
Page 6 - September 17, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Troupe presents ‘Straight Outta MADDNESS’
Photo: William Kelly MADDRAMA Performance Troupe during a scene in the interest show.
Gabrielle Brawner MC Contributor/Staff Writer Tackling black stereotypes and every day experiences in the African-American culture, MADDRAMA Performance Troupe put on a show to remember at the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium. On Sept. 9, MADDRAMA held their annual fall interest show for the students of JSU. For over ten years, hundreds of students have gathered in
McCoy to gain knowledge and be entertained by the performance troupe. For the Jackson State University students, mostly freshmen and transfer students, who may not know about the organization, the interest show provided an opportunity for current members to showcase that MADDRAMA is more than just a bunch of students who enjoy acting, dancing and singing. “MADDRAMA is an
organization of performers. When I started, I first called it MADDRAMA Acting Troupe but, I said wanted more than just acting, I wanted performers and performers involve speaking, singing, dancing, make-up, and costumes, some of everything. So that’s basically what it is,” said Mark Henderson, founder and artistic director of MADDRAMA, and Chair of the Department of Speech Communications. The audience was entertained from the beginning of the show
to the very end. People laughed, cried and occasionally sang along to some of the tunes that were played between the scenes as the audience members patiently waited for the next act to go on. DeLana Ector, a senior majoring in both electrical and civil engineer from Hattiesburg, Miss., is a loyal fan and supporter of MADDRAMA. “As an organization, they like to empower people and they like to bring things to the stage and
educate and entertain people,” said Ector. Marcus Jones, a graduate student from Houston, Texas got involved with MADDRAMA while he attended JSU as an undergraduate student and has many fond memories of his time with MADDRAMA. “I really appreciate my S.C.E.N.E. as they grew. Miss Jackson State is one of my S.C.E.N.E. sisters, Rashad Moore, SGA President, is my S.C.E.N.E. siblings. And a lot of my S.C.E.N.E brothers and sisters have grown and done great things. I guess that’s what I most proud of,” said Jones. Many members say they joined because they have a love for the arts, while others, like Gregory Chambers, joined to gain a confidence. “I thought that MADRAMA would help me get over my fear of being in front of the camera, because they say in my field, you have to be able to do both. Be in front and behind the camera. It helped me come out of the shell I was already in. It helped me find my voice that was already there,” said Chambers, a sophomore mass communication major from Jackson, Miss. To join MADDRAMA, you don’t have to be a theatre major or have experience with being on stage. For those who would like to become a part of MADDRAMA and missed the Sept. 15 deadline, there’s always next fall.
Alice VarnadoHarden Center for Service uniquely JSU Gerald Harris MC Contributor
In order to obtain a degree from Jackson State University, you must complete 120 hours of community service. Transfer or nontraditional students must complete 60 hours of community service in order to graduate. With over 4,000 higher educational institutions in the United State, very few require community service as a condition of graduation. The Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning is the department tasked with helping students help the communities they live in by providing community service. “Jackson State wants to promote all students towards improving the human condition and civic engagement,” said Regina Clay, Service Learning Faculty Liaison for the Harden
Center for Service. “With the center requiring 120 hours of community service for traditional students and 60 for transfer students, it will give them an opportunity to give back to the community.” Mario Rosales, a junior biology major from Mission, Texas., who attends David Libscomb University and isn’t required to complete community service for graduation, opposes it as a reason to dictate if someone should graduate. “Community service should not be required for graduation, because it’s up to the individual to decide whether they should give back to the community or not,” Rosales said. But, Timothy Hall, a sociology major from Nashville, Tenn., thinks the idea of community service is appropriate for a graduation requirement. “I think having community service as a condition of
File Photo Freshmen participate in community service at WIC.
graduation is great,” said Hall. “Service is in our blood as Jackson State Tigers and requiring us to serve only
highlights the good in each of us.” For more information about community service and
the requirements, contact the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning at 601-979-1294.
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The Blue & White Flash
News
Fans await return of Scandal gladiators Dwayne Joseph Jr. Staff Writer
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Anxious fans have been waiting since the beginning of the summer the return of the hit sitcom, “Scandal”. On Sept. 24, the wait will be over. Season 5 of “Scandal” will premiere its first episode on the ABC network and is guaranteed to bring more drama and thrills that will leave its viewers speechless as in previous seasons. To sum up what happened in Season 4 before “Scandal” went on summer hiatus, viewers witnessed the most drastic change in the history of the show. Jake Ballard completed his mission of protecting Olivia Pope under the orders of President Fitzgerald Grant and Rowan “Command” Pope. Cyrus Beene was fired as White House Chief of Staff and replaced by Elizabeth North. Mellie Grant was kicked out of the White House and Command was arrested after he destroyed
all evidence of the existence of the underground organization, B-613.underground organization, B-613. And last but not least, Olivia and Fitz come together once again. These heart pounding moments are guaranteed to pick up where they left off as writer Shonda Rhimes left viewers dangling in the wind. Over the summer, the stars of “Scandal” teased its fan base with hash tags like #GhostHuck and #5scandal to get viewers talking about what they want to see and what they are expecting of the 5th season. Kyla Hudson, a business marketing major from Chicago, Ill. said that this season would be nothing unexpected. “This new season is going to be the same as previous seasons with Fitz and Olivia breaking up and getting back together constantly,” said Hudson. Teasers released for the upcoming season show Fitz and Olivia passionately engaged with one another. It looks as though Fitz is filing for divorce
because of the decision Mellie made in the last episode of Season 4 giving Rowan a list of juror’s names that are brutally killed by Huck to prevent the take down of B-613. Season 5 also introduces a new gladiator who has previously guest-starred in the series. “I can’t wait to see who this new gladiator is because since Harrison died there has not been a more rational gladiator on the show that balance Olivia Pope the way Harrison did,” said Sha’Kema Harley, a junior social work major from Detroit, Mich. This season of “Scandal” will put viewers through an even more emotional rollercoaster and long heavy breathing sighs like never before. “I am patiently awaiting the return of Command and the divorce of Mellie and Fitzgerald Grant,” said Morris Bowman, a senior history major from Itta Bena, Miss. Season 5 of Scandal will air on Sept. 24, 2015 on the ABC network at 8 p.m. central time.
Ashley Madison hack affects local Mississippi resident Breanna Stewart MC Contributor The affects of the Ashley Madison data hack continues to unfold globally, and for one local Mississippi resident, litigation was the only next step to take. According to The ClarionLedger, an anonymous Madison citizen, only identified in the suit as “John Doe”, has filed the first legal documents, seeking compensation, from online dating and social networking service, Ashley Madison, after an August 2015 data breach saw some 37 million names of users, along with e-mail addresses, leaked onto the Internet. The Canadian-based site, which touts, “Life is short. Have an affair”, specializes in creating relationships for individuals who are either married or are in a long-term and/or committed relationship. Represented by Allison Fry of Eaves Law Firm in Jackson, the suit alleges that Ashley Madison did not take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect users. As a result, Doe, who created an account with the site in 2010, but maintains he closed the account some three years later, preferring to rebuild his marriage instead, is reportedly now in jeopardy of losing his job; the man’s wife has also supposedly
left him, as well, after his personal information was revealed in the data breach. Doe is also accusing Ashley Madison of negligence, inflection of emotional distress, violating his constitutional right to privacy, along with breach of implied contract, and is seeking an unspecified dollar amount from the company as a result. While the loss of a spouse due to an affair is subjective, LaVenita Cottrell, Jackson State University’s Associate Director of Career Services, said termination of employment is completely impartial. “[It’s] based upon the employer, based on solely their discretion only,” said Cottrell. Tameka White, a senior graphic design major at Jackson State University, agrees with Cottrell’s sentiments. “To be honest, I feel if a person is performing well within their profession, and they’re not letting their personal life interfere with their job, I don’t think they should be fired,” said White. A number of other Jackson State students, including urban regional planning major, Terrance Anderson, echoed White’s views, believing an individual’s personal life should not be a detriment to their employment. “I don’t think a person should get fired just because their name is on the site. If it was interfering
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with his work, the actual job he is doing, that’s one thing, but if it’s not interfering with their job, I don’t believe the company has a right to actually fire somebody,” said Anderson. There have been other ramifications stemming from the massive data breach of Ashley Madison. According to CNN, a married New Orleans pastor reportedly committed suicide after being associated with the site. Investorplace.com is reporting that
three users from California, New Jersey, and Maryland., have all filed suits against both Amazon and GoDaddy, service hosts of Ashley Madison, for emotional stress. At the time of reporting, both Amazon and GoDaddy have both been dropped from the lawsuits filed against their companies. Ashley Madison’s CEO, Noel Biderman, who at one point maintained that he was happily married and did not cheat himself, has also now been accused of adultery since the hack. And
as of Sept. 11, some 11 million passwords have now been uncoded by password-cracking hobbyist group, CynoSure Prime. While it is assumed that more lawsuits will be filed in the upcoming days and weeks, as controversy from the hack continues to roll on, Avid Life Media, the parent company for Ashley Madison, has not acknowledged the suit, but has promised to address the allegations in upcoming litigation.
Variety
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The Blue & White Flash
‘The Perfect Guy’ movie is far from perfect Breyionna Flowers MC Contributor
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After three months of countless advertisements exhilarating viewers everywhere, “The Perfect Guy” was finally released in theaters on Friday, Sept. 11, 2015. The thriller is the first film of its genre this year to be comprised of a mostly black cast, starring Sanaa Lathan, Michael Ealy, and Morris Chestnut. The film centers on Leah Vaughn (Sanaa Lathan), a successful businesswoman who is unsatisfied in her relationship with her boyfriend of two years, David King (Morris Chestnut), because he is not ready to commit and start a family. After the couple decides to part ways, Leah meets Carter Duncan (Michael Ealy), an information technology, or IT specialist, who seems to have the qualities in a life partner that she’s been looking for. There’s just one problem: Carter is overly possessive and territorial. After witnessing Carter nearly beat a man to death solely for speaking to her, Leah breaks up with him, and the stalking begins. Directed by David M. Rosenthal and written Tyger
Williams, “The Perfect Guy” quickly turns from one woman’s battle against a psychotic ex-lover to a mediocre BET film that is so self-involved that it overtly crams in as many black stereotypes as it possibly can. Not to mention, the characters are so underdeveloped that the film does not even bother assigning them to definite careers nor actual character goals. One would almost certainly think that Carter is the main character. After all, viewers find out more about him than Leah, the actual main character. “I didn’t understand it. The woman, Leah, had a good job, I guess, because she had a nice-sized house, but that’s all I know. I couldn’t tell you anything else about her,” said Kimberly Stampley, a senior mass communication major from Vicksburg, Miss. When character development fails, why not add stereotypes to cover it up? Leah Vaughn is the independent black woman who is so desperate to marry and start a family that she doesn’t even bother to learn anything about new beau Carter, other than the fact that he has a good job. Carter is the light-skinned crazy,
black man, who’s possessive and does not take no for an answer. Then there’s David, the dark-skinned man with a fear of commitment and apparently no house or job title, since writers made no effort to even give him a real identity. “I don’t like how they portrayed Morris Chestnut. It made black men, as a whole, look bad. Not only did he not want a family, I’m not even sure he had a real job. I can’t tell you anything about him. Leah was successful, but he was just there,” said Stampley. “The Perfect Guy” fails to give its characters clear-cut goals outside of the overall theme, which still isn’t clear. The only possible goal set for Lathan’s character in the film is to get married. If that is her goal, what does that say about black women who are mainly portrayed by characters with similar goals? What does it say about black man, whose portrayals in every film this year have contained violence? There are still audience members who were entertained by such performances since the film ranked #1 and grossed $26.7 million its opening weekend.
New Sonic Boom members debut talents in first game Simon Cotton MC Contributor The newest members of the Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South experienced their first football game this past weekend at the annual Southern Heritage Classic. This was the band’s football season debut and the new members were very excited that their first game was one of the biggest of the season. Corina Cepeda, a freshman clarinetist with a biology premed major from McComb, Miss., said all she could think about while marching into Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium was getting her ramp right. “It was just unbelievable. Marching in, I was surprised to see all those people,” said Cepeda. Cepeda said that she joined the band because she thought that the Sonic Boom was the best band and that she loves everything the band stands for. “Who wouldn’t want to
be apart of the best?” Cepeda said. Tisithia Knotts, another freshman clarinetist majoring in music education major from Jackson, Miss., said that it took a lot of hard work, dedication, and commitment to get from band camp to this point, but that it was all worth it. “Marching in, I was very excited when I first heard the percussion kick the cadence off. All I could feel was my blood rushing because I was very prepared for the game,” said Knotts. Knotts said that she has been watching the band since she was a child and has always wanted to be apart of the band. “Since I was a little kid, I always watched The Boom and it has been a dream for me to participate in this band. And just participating, I feel like I’ve accomplished something, but I know that it’s not over yet so I’m going to keep pushing for better,” said Knotts.
Giann Soto, a freshman trumpet player majoring in music education from Charlotte, N.C., said that he had a great first experience at the game and that he is looking to see what else he can learn as the season goes on. “My experience thus far has been great. I’ve learned how to interact with people from different backgrounds and I’ve wanted to be in the band since I was 14, so my dreams have come true. I couldn’t ask for more,” said Soto. Soto also said his reasons for joining the band were not only because of the Sonic Boom’s reputation, but because of his overall experience with marching bands over the years. “I joined the band because I love music, I love playing trumpet, I want to be a band director, and I need the band. I learned so many things about life through band in high school and at the collegiate level. It’s molding me into a great person
Photo: William Kelly Sonic Boom members during Voter Registration Drive held in August.
and I’ve made so many lifelong relationship with people I now call brothers or sisters through the band. The band, the music, the marching; it’s all my escape, aside from the passion I have for it,” said Soto.
The Sonic Boom’s next performance will take place this weekend as the band and football team travel to the Mumford Stadium in Baton Rouge, La. to battle Southern University at the annual Boombox Classic.
CIA Fair
Cont. from pg.1 ple as ed wit h t he opp or tunity to me et wit h repres ent atives from the agencies. “My experience at the C.I.A. was amazing. I signed up for so many different community service projects. The representatives from each booth where very well-informed and were clear to understand. I think the event was
an overall success,� said Dennis, a sophomore mathematics education major from Canton, Miss. For more information about service agencies, deadlines and events, contact the Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning at 601-979-1294 or visit the office located on the f irst f lo or of Jacob L. Re ddix Ha l l.
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The Blue & White Flash
Sports
Page 11 - September 17, 2015
Intramural sports help students get involved
File Photo JSU students participating in Intramural flag football tournament.
Aniecia Brewster MC Contributor/Staff Writer Were you an athlete before coming to college and miss the thrill of competition or do you just enjoy keeping fit while enjoying sports? Well intramural sports are the activity for you. According to the Jackson State University website, Intramural (IM) Sports aim to provide a variety of team
and individual activities in a recreational environment for JSU students. “Need a study break? Need a fun activity for friends? Form a team of peers from your dorm, or other students you meet around campus. If you can’t find enough people to form a team, sign up, as a Free Agent and we will find a team for you. We welcome our JSU faculty and staff that are members of the Walter Payton Center to participate as well,” said Chapin
Payne, associate director of the JSU Recreation Complex. Payne added: “League winners will receive recognition on the website and receive an IM Leagues Champion t-shirt. We also do give-a-ways throughout each tournament.” K’Tonius Miller enjoys intramural sports because it is very competitive. “I participate in intramural sports because I love playing sports and the chance to
compete against other people and be competitive is great feeling,” said Miller, a senior engineering major from Jackson, Miss. Intramural sports helps some students stay in shape and avoid the weight gain that comes from inactivity. “I choose to participate in intramural sports because it’s something to do in my spare time and keep me active,” said Demarcus Powers, a sophomore accounting major
from Jackson, Miss. There are several leagues students can participate in including: basketball, flag football, indoor soccer, kickball, volleyball, and dodge ball. Students can stop by the JSU Recreation Complex to register. Students can also create an account on imleagues.com/ jsu and verify the account via email. When the registration begins for a particular sport, student can sign up.
Cardinals make history with NFL’s first female coach Aniecia Brewster MC Contributor/Staff Writer The Arizona Cardinals gave Jen Welter the opportunity to make history this summer as an assistant linebackers coach during the team’s training camp. The 37-year-old sports psychologist, is a mother of three and now the first woman to ever coach in NFL league history. “I think it’s a good look for females because it shows that football isn’t a sexiest sport. Sexist as far as coaching goes,” said Ky’Bria Spell, a junior industrial technology major from Atlanta, Ga. According to the Cardinals website, Welter is not only experienced in coaching, she also played
for the Texas Revolution as running back in 2014. “I believe if she knows the game at a tremendous level than change is always good,” said Hector Stanback, a Jackson State football player and junior criminal justice major from Jackson, Miss. Ravontranice Gage feels female coaches will have many obstacles to overcome in the NFL. “I feel like a woman can’t just be a coach because even though she may know the game, there is more to deal with than just knowing the game. She needs experience as well. Even though it will show equality, there is a lot of pressure that comes with coaching NFL teams,” said Gage, a senior health/physical education & recreation major
from Miami, Fla. “Also it’s hard to deal with a grown males and she probably won’t get as much respect t as a male coach would get,” said senior Ravontranice Gage at Jackson State University. According to the Cardinals, the coaching staff and Arizona players accepted Welter because sex didn’t matter. However, some students feel she will not be accepted as an NFL coach because of her gender. “It’s going to be really hard for her to be accepted and it’s going to take a long time for her to prove herself and that she belongs in the eyes of others,” said Cornelius Henderson, a Jackson State University football player.
Google Image Jen Welter, Arizona Cardinals assistant linebackers coach.
Sports
Page 12 - September 17, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Tigers look for redemption against Southern Jaguars
Jeremy Anderson Associate Editor Jackson State University will look to pick up its first win against long-time rival Southern University this week to open up Southwestern Conference play. The bitter rivalry promises to include a rowdy atmosphere as two of the biggest fan bases in the Football Championship Subdivision pack into one stadium this Saturday. Last year, JSU fell to Southern 42-28 at the Mississippi Veteran’s Memorial Stadium. Southern enters this week with an overall record of 1-1, with the one loss coming from Louisiana Tech of the Football Bowl Subdivision. After a 6215 loss in week one, the Jaguars defeated Mississippi Valley State 50-13. Although Southern blew out the Delta Devils in Itta Bena, Miss., last Thursday on ESPNU, the offensive game stats were similar. Southern dominated the special teams game with a punt return and a kickoff return for touchdowns. SU also made interceptions with long returns that aided the JConversely, in front of over 48,000 fans, Jackson State lost 35-25 in a hard fought battle against Tennessee State University Tigers in the annual Southern
Photo: JSU Athletics Running Back, Robert Johnson IV, dominating the field.
Heritage Classic. JSU hung with TSU for the majority of the game, but mistakes in the special teams department lead JSU to find themselves in tough predicaments throughout the game. Jackson State’s defense held up well against Tennessee State
for most of the game, yet the occasional big plays from TSU surged them ahead of JSU. Quarterback La Montiez Ivy played an efficient game with over 300 pass yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Wide receiver Dan Williams finished the game
with over 100 yards for the second game in a row. JSU also found some success in the run game with Jarius Moore and Robert Johnson combining to rush for the bulk of 114 total rushing yards. In order to begin conference play on a good note and beat
Southern, JSU must continue the balanced offensive attack. JSU’s offensive line must provide protection for Ivy and create holes for Moore and Johnson, who had a 100-yard rushing game last year, to run through. Also, Williams, who had a 100-yard receiving game last year, must continue his streak of effective games to provide big plays for JSU. Defensively, JSU must limit big plays from S outhern, something that did not happen last year. In the 2014 matchup, S outhern had three 100yard receivers, and a 100yard rusher. JSU cannot afford for that to happen again. Even though JSU produced over 500 yards of total offense, SU proved to be too explosive for JSU to contain. In a 14 point loss last year, 14 of the Jaguars’ points resulted from special teams touchdowns. Willie Quinn returned a punt for a touchdown in addition to a kickoff returned for a touchdown from Southern. In game that will determine the momentum throughout the rest of SWAC play, JSU has to find a way to win big this week. The game is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19th, at A.W. Mumford Stadium in Baton Rouge, La.
High-flying Lady Tigers volleyball team on the move Morgan Beard Staff Writer The highflying Lady Tigers volleyball team competed against the University of Southern Mississippi on Sept. 8 in the T. B. Ellis Gym. Even though the Jackson State University Lady Tigers did not leave with a win, they were able to pull two close sets in the 3-0 (25-23, 25-9, 25-20) loss to the Golden Eagles. The Lady Tigers were able to hang with the Golden Eagles in set one, either trailing right behind or managing to tie. In set two, JSU allowed mistake after mistake to hold them back and were never able to recover to take the win. In set three, it was anyone’s game but USM was able to capitalize on a couple of errors to win the overall game. Kiana Shelton and Taija Thomas led the Lady
Tigers offensively. Shelton, a sophomore art major from Montgomery, Ala., recorded 5 attacks with 9 total for a .556 attack percentage and also she record 7-block assist. Thomas recorded 9 attacks with 24 total attacks for a .125 attack percentage and also record 4 block assist. Markayisha Masani and Tyler Moorer led the team defensively with 3 digs a piece. Jenna Siddiqui led in assists with 17. Assistant Coach Joelle Mafo plans to have a productive season. “We have big expectations for the season even though we got off on a slow start. We just need to make some corrections and prepare for our conference,” said Coach Mafo. Some students at JSU are pleased with the Lady Tigers’ performance and are proud to support the team. “It’s nice to see Tigers young
and old come out and support,” said Erik Payton, a junior political science major Chicago, Ill. Daniel Johnson believes the Lady Tigers played a competitive game against USM. “It was very interesting that we played Southern Miss and our performers were good and I believe that we can turn this season around,” said Johnson, a sophomore biology major from Jackson, Miss. According to JSU Sports Media Relations, Taija Thomas was named to the University of Louisiana-Lafayette AllTournament Team, after leading the Jackson State offense with 44 kills (3.38 kills-per-set) over four matches and 13 sets. Thomas recorded a total of 116 attacks with a .259 attack percentage. The Lady Tigers will play the Gamecocks of Jacksonville State University on Sept. 16.
Photo: JSU Athletics JSU Lady Tigers Volleyball team during USM matchup.