FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi
www.thejsuflash.com
INSIDE
Vol. 78 / No. 6 OPINION
Tr u m p v s NFL Players page 3
September 28, 2017
S P O RT S
VA R I E T Y
NEWS
JSU vs. PVAM Preview page 8
Being Mary Jane page 7
Professionals in the Classroom page 4
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Photos by K’Shatriyah Humphrey and Zipporah Jones
(1&3) McAllister-Whiteside students returning to the residence hall after receiving the all-clear. (2) Assistant Police Chief Dee McClendon during press conference announcing arrest.
Arrest made in McAllisterWhiteside bomb threat K’Shatriyah Humphrey MC301/Staff Jackson State University Public Safety officials announced an arrest during a press conference held yesterday (Sept. 27) in the bomb threat made on McAllister-Whiteside Residence Hall last Friday, Sept. 22. Assistant Deputy Chief of Police Dee McClendon, made the announcement of the arrest of 20 year-old Christopher Ashley Jones, a Memphis, Tenn. resident. McClendon stated that Jones turned himself in to campus police at noon Wednesday after confessing to calling in two bomb threats. Female residents in Jackson State University’s McAllister-Whiteside Residence Hall got a 4 a.m. wake-up call on Sept. 22. The students woke up to loud knocks on the door from campus police and were informed that the residence hall had received a bomb threat. The students were evacuated to a safe area outside the residence hall as emergency officials completed a lengthy sweep of the building. Emergency vehicles and personnel blocked off the Prentiss Street entrance
and McAllister-Whiteside parking lot entrance. “When the fire alarm went off, I wanted to cry because I thought that it was just another fire drill,” said Makala Scott, a freshman biology/pre-med major from Tulsa, Okla. Scott was not the only student who thought that this was just another fire drill. Many said the frequent drills made the bomb threat feel less important and some students wanted to stay in their rooms and sleep. “I had received an email from JSU mentioning a bomb threat on campus,” said Mahogany Jones, a junior biology/pre-med major from Marks, Miss. “The email terrified me and made me worry about my safety a little more. I was worried about everyone.” McAllister-Whiteside houses about 400 female freshmen students. Students were evacuated into the cafeteria, Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center and other buildings on campus. Some students stayed on the sidewalks hoping to quickly get back into their rooms. “When we got outside, one of our CA’s (community advisor) stated that it was a bomb threat and our building was on lockdown.
Many (students) left in their cars, some went to Dixon Hall, and some waited on the sidewalks. At 6 a.m., Jackson State’s campus police opened the AAC for us,” Scott said. The girls quickly crowded other areas on campus in hopes of continuing their rest in safety. “Many people went to the café to get food, but it was so many people in there,” Scott said. The residence hall reopened at 9:30 a.m. and JSU Public Safety, Homeland Security, Department of Justice and other law enforcement agencies came together to investigate the bomb threat. “The investigation is ongoing and we cannot make a statement concerning the situation at this time,” said Vance Siggers, executive director of Housing and Residence Life. Morning classes were cancelled and excused absences were granted to those who were impacted by the threat. Students in other dorms felt as if they should have been warned about the bomb threat earlier from officials. Many students were notified when they stepped out of their rooms and saw the commotion. Tamera Twilley, a senior
criminal justice major from Lambert, Miss. said, “I feel like we all should have been aware of the bomb threat at the start, and not hours later.” Every student living in McAlister-Whiteside and Transitional were accounted for and were found safe during the bomb threat. No bomb was found in or around the residence halls. Laquala Coleman, Dean of Students, said that there is a student conduct process, which can be found on page 30 of the electronic version of the Student Handbook, on the University penalties for making bomb threats. “In summary, if a student allegedly violated the Student Code of Conduct, an incident report would be generated and forwarded to the Dean of Students Office. Specifically, as it relates to a bomb threat, if a student allegedly made a bomb threat, the student would be notified of the alleged violation (3.70 Safety Code Mischief ), which is a charge found on page 22 within the hard copy of the Student Handbook. In turn, the student would be required to schedule a student conduct hearing. Then a decision would be made by the Student Affairs Conduct Committee,” said Coleman. Coleman added, “If a student is found responsible
YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!
for making a bomb threat, the student would receive the consequence of expulsion from the University, as well as legal ramifications in a court of law and it would not be considered double jeopardy.” Coleman referred The Flash to Public Safety for information on the legal ramifications of making a bomb threat. JSU Deputy Chief James Lyons said that Jackson State follows the state law, which reads: MS Code § 97-37-21 (2013) It shall be unlawful for any person to report to another by any means, including telephone, mail, e-mail, mobile phone, fax or any means of communication, that a bomb or other explosive or chemical, biological or other weapons of mass destruction has been, or is to be, placed or secreted in any public or private place, knowing that such report is false. Any person who shall be convicted of a violation of this section shall be fined not more than Ten Thousand Dollars ($ 10,000.00) or shall be committed to the custody of the Department of Corrections for not more than ten (10) years, or both. Chelsey Jones contributed to this story.
@JSU_StudentPub
Tiger Events
Page 2 - September 28, 2017
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
KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer
ALEXANDRIA GALTNEY Editor- in-Chief AARON WALKER Managing Editor
CHELSEY JONES Managing Editor
Morgan Beard K’Shatriyah Humphrey Winie Bush Ricardo Jamison Eric Brown Mia Jones Tavia Calvin Zipporah Jones Taya Drummer-Chanay William H. Kelly III Kayla Cross Kalin Norman Jared Dorsey Destynee Quinney Kendria Haley Adrian Thompson
Letters To The Editor
Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.
Editorial Staff
The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.
Publication/Distribution Information
The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.
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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Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.
The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
Page 3 - September 28, 2017
Cartoon: Eric Brown
Support for Colin Kaepernick a day late and a dollar short COMMENTARY
Chelsey Jones Managing Editor On Friday, Sept. 22, basketball player Steph Curry revealed during an interview that he had no interest in visiting President Donald Trump at the White House. Trump, who was not
pleased with Curry’s statement, tweeted his disapproval and revoked Curry’s invitation. Trump did not stop there. He decided to insult any athlete that has sat down during the National Anthem, referring to them as “sons of bitches.” It is clear his statement was directed towards former football player Colin Kaepernick, who made national news for kneeling The president’s comments upset many professional athletes who were supportive of both Curry and Kaepernick. The aftermath of Trump’s attack lead to the hashtag #TakeaKnee to trend on Twitter. Trump encouraged fans to boycott National Football League games. But in an overwhelming show of solidarity, NFL players and coaches across
the league locked arms during the singing of the National Anthem. I have a respect for NFL players and other athletes for kneeling or protesting injustice in America during the National Anthem. I have a greater respect for them for joining together to defy President Trump. However, I do not respect the fact they took Kaepernick’s protest and changed the idea of it. Kaepernick’s protest was never about Trump. President Trump was not even president when Kaepernick first started kneeling last fall. Kaepernick no longer saw the need to stand for a flag that, in his opinion, represented a flawed and broken country. He was tired of seeing our young, brown women and men being killed by police officers and not getting
proper justice. He needed a way to bring attention to police brutality against people of color; so he kneeled. When Kaepernick first started kneeling, he barely had any physical support. He had plenty of digital support, which is people showing support on Twitter but still refusing to sit or kneel during the National Anthem. It took Kaepernick losing his job to get other players to start kneeling. And they started kneeling for the wrong reason: they got offended by the president. Like I stated earlier, I respect the athletes for taking a stand against the president. They have the right to do that. The media attention they are receiving is really starting to change the hearts and minds of people who were originally against Kaepernick.
What I am saying is, they are a day late and a dollar short. Why are they kneeling now? If they were really so “supportive” of Kaepernick, they would have started “taking a knee” the same time he started. They would have never waited almost a whole year after Kaepernick’s protest to take a stand against an “unfair” America. I hope this “take a knee” protest is not a onetime thing. If athletes are really serious about their protest and their “support” for Kaepernick, they will continue this protest for the whole season just like Kaepernick did. This statement goes for NFL and other sports fans also. 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 do you think about the sport league’s reponse to President Trump’s remarks regarding player protests?” Compiled by Jarrod Dorsey
Jazmine Haley Senior Marketing Chicago, Ill.
Terrance Coleman Senior Business Admin. Jackson, Miss.
“To be totally honest I am seriously not a fan of Donald Trump. I despise the actions he has taken since being in the presidential position. I hope he will soon be impeached.”
“I have mixed feelings because I am currently in the army and I know what the national anthem stands by and what it was put in place to serve as. But I also know I don’t want to be any part of things that support the government that place Donald Trump in it.”
Kolby Johnson Sophomore Entrepreneurship Greenville, Miss.
Jalon Ballansaw Junior Accounting Jackson, Miss.
“I feel Donald Trump is just mad because nobody wants to come visit him in the White House. I fully support the players on their stance, even if it’s towards something that I grew up giving acknowledgement to.”
“I think as a man we have the right to speak how we want and act as we want as long as it is legal. If they decide to walk out during the National Anthem it’s their right that cannot be taken away by anyone.”
Makaila Brown Senior Marketing Chicago, Ill. “I feel as if Donald Trump is taking his authority too far and acting like a dictator. He is over stepping his boundaries and trying to affect the freedom of speech that is our right. ”
Katresha Robinson Senior Business Admin. Summit, Miss. “I feel as if Donald Trump’s response to the NFL and NBA players taking a knee proves he should be impeached immediately.”
KeySean McClain Freshman Psychology Jackson, Miss.
Destiny Alexander Senior Marketing Baton Rouge, La.
“Who does Donald trump think he is? Why does he have the right to even say the immature comments as the nation’s president. I stand behind the NBA and NFL players’ decision regarding the National Anthem.”
“Even though I do wish there was a better way to go about showing their non-support to the president. I personal believe players such as LeBron James wouldn’t do things to place a bad image on his name.”
Erykah Savery Senior Business Admin. Clarksdale, Miss. “I personally believe that the NFL and NBA players should keep it going because we can’t salute a song devoted to our nation with a racial, judgmental, disrespectful man as our president. ”
Justin Clarke Junior Accounting Memphis, Tenn. “Obviously I support the NBA and NFL players movement but I am just hoping that the men and women serving in the military won’t think that we all don’t support their struggle and what they been through while serving.”
Mark Watson Senior Management Orlando, Fla.
Titus Smith Sophomore Industrial Technology Hazlehurst, Miss.
“I feel overall it something that needs to be done to show awareness of the world we currently living in under Donald Trump.”
“Even though I am not a Trump supporter, I believe the National Anthem wasn’t made to support the president or the government it was made for fallen men and women that fought in the nation’s wars.”
News
Page 4 - September 28, 2017
The Blue & White Flash
Students benefit from Professionals in the Classroom event
Photos by K’shatriyah Humphrey Jerry Mitchell, award-winning investigative reporter for the Clarion-Ledger.
K’Shatriyah Humphrey MC301/Staff Local media professionals took over journalism and media studies classes on Sept. 26-27 at the Mississippi eCenter at Jackson State University. The Journalism and Media Studies department hosted “Professionals in the Classroom”, an event that placed broadcast, multimedia and traditional journalists in the classroom to give information to students who aspire to be in their places
after graduation. “The Pros in the Classroom event has been wonderful for the students and faculty. This experience allows the professionals to come into our classrooms and interact with students and give them first-hand current knowledge about the field of mass media. We plan to do this every semester using different media professionals. It was a very inspiring experience,” said Department of Journalism and Media Studies Chair Elayne H. Anthony. Ronnie Agnew, executive
director for Mississippi Public Broadcasting, whose career in the media industry spans nearly three decades, was one of the ‘professors for a day’. “We need more people of color in newsrooms across America,” said Agnew. “We have to have more people like you. You can make a difference in people’s lives. You can change things!” One of the goals of the two-day event was to impart real-world knowledge and techniques that will help the students be successful in the media industry. C l a r i o n - L e d g e r ’s investigative reporter, Jerry Mitchell, regaled students with a wealth of information and techniques used during his writing of award-winning stories dealing with cold case Civil Rights murders. His articles were instrumental in helping to put four Klansmen behind bars: Byron De La Beckwith for the 1963 assassination of NAACP leader Medgar Evers; Imperial Wizard Sam Bowers, for ordering the fatal firebombing of NAACP leader Vernon Dahmer in 1966; Bobby Cherry, for the 1963 bombing of a Birmingham church that killed four girls; and Edgar Ray Killen, for helping organize the June 21, 1964, killings of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Schwerner (popularized by
the fictional movie about that case, “Mississippi Burning”). “The main advice I can give you is to stay persistent,” said Mitchell. “I am not the best journalist in my newsroom. I am not the best writer. I can make a list of a lot of things that I am not best at, but I have had the success that I had because I have been persistent.” JSU alum and former Flash editor/writer LaMonte Brown, was another professional sharing tips and techniques with students in the Media Design and Production class. “I’m glad to be here and speak at the same university I received by education from,” said Brown, chief photographer for WAPT-TV. Other professionals taking part in the event included: Jerome Deloach, Assistant Chief Photographer for WLBT-3; Donna Ritchey, Chief Strategy Officer for Godwin Group; L.A. Warren, Media Relations Specialist for JSU University Communications; C.J. LeMaster, Chief Investigative Reporter for WLBT-TV; Elaina Jackson, Managing Director of Strategic Engagement for the Fahrenheit Group; Atty. Leonard Van Slyke of Burnini Attorneys at Law; Rick Looser, President and COO of Cirlot Agency and Ryan Nave, News Editor/Legislative Reporter at Mississippi Today.
“The professionals that taught my classes were very down to earth. They let you know what it takes to be a freelance journalist,” said My’Una Jones, a senior mass communication major from Heidelberg, Miss. William H. Kelly, III, editor-in-chief of the eXperience Magazine, said the professionals who instructed his classes were very helpful. “My class had C.J. LeMaster, who I met this past summer while I interned with the Jackson Free Press. I found it extremely helpful and interesting to see how a seasoned investigative reporter in the field, organized, constructed and provided tips regarding his approach to reporting. I often face challenges but some of the tips he mentioned will definitely help me in the field,” said Kelly. The professionals inspired Brandon Mason, a senior mass communication major from Jackson, Miss.. “It was definitely a good choice to have a professional come into the classroom and talk with us,” said Mason. “The event gave us hope in finding a job after graduation and helped strengthen our faith in our major. Some of us are graduating seniors, so that gave us an insight on what to expect when we enter the field after graduation.”
Students pleased with SGA’s first student body meeting Winnie Bush Staff Writer
Jackson State University Student Government Association held its first student body meeting on Sept. 26, 2017. Students were discussed and addressed issues that included housing complaints, Tiger Bucks stipends, printing funds, campus police, Heritage Dining Hall and the perceived lack of communication in the Business Office. Cynthia Jones, a senior business administration major from Jackson, Miss. said, “My biggest issue is with the lack of communication from the Business Office. I think they should increase the hours when students are able to see a counselor for refunds because when the sign-in sheet opens, there is a long line so some students are not able to see a counselor. Also, one of my friends came to campus after she received a call from someone in the Business Office to pick up
her refund but when she got on campus, her check was not there, so this needs to be addressed in regards to proper communication channels.” The student leaders which included members of the SGA, Campus Activities Board and student conduct leaders were all in attendance at the meeting which was held in the Student Center Theater. Justin Brown, a sophomore civil engineering major and Sophomore Class Senator from St. Louis, Mo. said, “The meeting was very effective and as student government leaders, we got a lot accomplished. I feel like we will have more attendance due to how well this meeting went.” Some Jackson State University students enjoyed the meeting. “I loved the student body meeting. It was prompt and to the point. We had a chance to voice our concerns about certain things and most of
Photo by Winnie Bush Students attend first student body meeting of the semester.
the concerns had immediate solutions and the new ones that did not were promised to be solved. The meeting went well,” said Sydni Harris, a sophomore business management major from Farmington Hills, Mich. Asean Davis, the Student Government Association
Vice President, announced that University Pointe Residence Hall would return to its original co-ed housing starting fall 2018. This announcement received a lot of applause from the student body. The SGA opened the floor and took questions
and concerns from students. Concerns were voiced about cafeteria to-go plates, air conditioning in the dorms, and refunds. SGA representatives promised to take the concerns to the right personnel who could handle the matter effectively. Che Smith, a junior accounting and finance major from Memphis, Tenn. said, “I felt like the meeting was productive. I was glad that people were able to voice their opinions and concerns and I felt like their concerns were being addressed.” Alexis Moore, a senior biology major from Ridgeland, Miss. and the current SGA President, gave the audience members the opportunity to play the popcorn game, which is a speedy way of introducing yourself. The SGA will continue to host student body meetings on the last Tuesday of every month from 5-6 p.m. The next student body meeting will take place on Oct. 31.
Students explore post graduation options at grad/pro day Kathryn R. Williams MC301/Staff
Every September, the Career Services Center hosts the annual Graduate and Professional Schools Day. The Graduate Fair is designed to introduce students with ambitions to receive advanced degrees, to prospective graduate programs. LaVenita Cottrell, associate director of the Career Services Center, along with faculty counterparts, works closely with graduate and professional programs that have attended the Graduate Fair previously in order to recruit prospective students. “We have a list of graduate schools and professional schools that have attended in the past and we also send out information to those schools who don’t recruit at our university, and we try to get them to come and recruit our students for graduate and professional school, so we basically send that information out around the nation,” said Cottrell. This year’s Graduate Fair offered information from
vendors, such as: Loyola University School of Law, University of Tennessee at Knoxville School of Health, UK Graduate Abroad Programs, and Jackson State University’s very own School of Public Policy. Each vendor and university presented information on graduate and professional programs offered at their school, and ways prospective students could stay up to date on important deadlines, and scholarship information. “…this event puts all of these entities (graduate and professional schools) in one place so a student can walk from table to table and get information regarding a particular grad or professional school,” said Cottrell. “We always want them (students) to not just think about one particular school but see what everybody else has to offer.” Lisa Herrin, student recruiter for the School of Health Related Professions at University Mississippi Medical Center, was one of the vendors at the fair. “In our school (School of Health Related Professions at UMMC) we have twelve
different programs that we offer: some are going to be bachelor’s, some are master’s, some are doctorate. The programs are kind of like medical laboratory science, history of technology, radiologic sciences. Then we have physical therapy, occupational therapy,” said Herrin. Along with the fair being a resource for graduate and professional schools. The Graduate and Professional Schools Day was one of several educational enrichment seminars designed for students to obtain a deeper knowledge of what it means to be an addition to fraternities and sororities. The new Membership Intake Process (MIP) requires students to have the signature of designated MIP representatives, in order to become eligible to participate in the selection process. Formally known as the MIP Certification Program, its’ goals are to strengthen leadership, education, and personal development; a few characteristics of what a successful candidate exudes. “I think this is a wonderful idea, and I think
Google Image University of Alabama representative speaks to JSU student about graduate program.
it should have been in place a long time ago. I think it is a great idea because there is just a lot of information and knowledge they can take away from that,” said Cottrell. Johnathan Smith was also pleased that Graduate and Professionals Day is now
included as part of the MIP process. “This revision will lead to greater prior knowledge and further educational enrichment amongst the interested prospects of Greek Life,” said Smith, a senior civil engineering major from Jackson, Miss.
The Blue & White Flash
Sports Hall of Fame & JSU vs UAPB Football Game
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9. (1-4) Honorees presented with awards during 30th Annual Sports Hall of Fame banquet. (5-9) Fans and students enjoying the festivities during the JSU vs UAPB football matchup.
Photos (1-4) by Alexandria Galtney and Photos (5-9) by Kalin Norman
Variety
Page 6 - September 28, 2017
The Blue & White Flash
Outspoken Arts Collective hosts its annual interest show
Winnie Bush Staff Writer
The student-led organization, Outspoken Arts Collective(OAC), hosted its annual interest show featuring poets, rappers, singers and musicians on Sept. 20 at the Jackson State University Johnson Hall Gallery. The room was filled with attendees who were very eager to see talented performances from JSU students. Diamond Dortch, a junior elementary education major from Chicago, Ill., who serves as the president of OAC said, “What makes Outspoken unique is that it encompasses all artforms. We have artists in the field of graphic design to poetry and rap. It is our mission to provide a platform for artists to not only enhance their art but to display it. I encourage all artists to join Outspoken Arts Collective for we are not just an organization but also a family.” Resa Youngblood was one of the JSU students that enjoyed the event. “I came out to see the
talent that my peers were putting on display tonight. I was not disappointed and I enjoyed every bit of the show,” said Youngblood, a graduate biology major from Morton, Miss. During the show, current members entertained students with a collection of beautifully written original poetry and music. The floor was later opened to the audience for those who wanted to perform their own pieces. Andre Byson, a junior musical education major from Anderson, Ind., and one of the many students who performed said, “Outspoken is a safe haven for the arts on campus because when I first came here my freshman year, there was not really much for us. We had a lot of talent shows but there wasn’t a lot of substance and that is why we decided to form Outspoken, where we give rappers, poets and musicians a platform to get their artwork in front of people making them, including myself a better artist in the process. He added, “This event
Photo by Winnie Bush Students attending the Outspoken Arts Collective interest show.
is a way of introducing the new freshman class to what we do and who we are.” Donovan Barner, Mister Outspoken for the 2017-2018 academic year, shared his thoughts on the event. “Outspoken is a creative outlet that is much needed in today’s society. Today’s event is an excellent example of black excellence,” said Barner, a freshman English
major from Jackson, Miss. Jasmine Thomas, a graduate media studies major from Atlanta, Ga., said, “I am a spoken-word artist and my spoken-word black Barbie references American beauty standards. Outspoken is dope because it is a combination of artists from different walks of life working together to create something good and authentic. As artists, we
tend to feed off of energy so more people joining our organization will make us more productive.” Some Jackson State students in attendance were amazed by the performances of the peers, encouraging people in the audience to join the Outspoken organization. Auditions for new members were held on Sept. 25.
BET’s Being Mary Jane season finale does not disappoint fans Aaron Walker Managing Editor
The finale of the fourth season of “Being Mary Jane” was well worth the wait for die-hard lovers of the show. The love story between Mary Jane (Gabrielle Union) and Justin Talbot (Michael Ealy) comes to a fantastic end with Mary Jane finally getting what she wants, somebody that loves her and a proposal. The series begins with Mary Jane having to choose between her boyfriend Justin and her best friend Kara Lynch (Lisa Vidal) for a position that both Lynch and Talbot are vying for, executive producer of “Good Day USA”. Mary Jane has a dream about her future at the newsroom. In this dream, Mary Jane is married to Justin and they even have a son named Jay. In the dream, everything is going great until they see Kara walking on street. Back in reality, Justin is still trying to secure his position to become executive producer and books Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as guests to make sure he gets the job. Meanwhile, Kara is coming
up with a new segment to replace the primetime show that did not happen and this time it will be in front of a “Good Day USA” audience. Back in Atlanta, Mary Jane’s father (Richard Roundtree) has put his wife Helen (Margaret Avery) out for cheating on him and is now being approached by extremely generous women in his community. Patrick, (Richard Brooks) who forgave his parents for not telling him that Paul was not his father, seems to think that his parents will get back together. In the meantime, Justin is very confident that he is going to get the job of executive producer, because he has won people over to secure his position. What Justin does not know is that Mary Jane is the last deciding vote for that gets the job. Meanwhile, Kara makes plans and reveals to Mary Jane that if she gets the job she is going to move her ex and her kids to New York City. Kara’s boyfriend, Orlando, is retiring from baseball and moving into a position hosting his own show. Justin later reveals that
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he was offered a job in Los Angeles to be executive producer of a political talk show for “Vice”, but he will not take the position if he is offered the job at “Good Day USA”. Mary Jane has another dream, this time with Kara being her choice as executive producer and GDU winning an Emmy award. As Mary Jane walks to her limo, she sees Justin and his son, but doesn’t speak. The next day, Justin informs Mary Jane that he loves her, but Mary Jane responds back with “how long
have you known I had the deciding vote for executive producer?” They argue and it makes the situation awkward, because Justin was wondering when she going to tell him that she had the deciding vote. The next day, Mary Jane makes her vote. After the morning show airs, Kara is named the executive producer. Justin looks at Mary Jane, but goes up to congratulate Kara and walks out. Back in the South, Helen sneaks into the house but is caught by her granddaughter Niecy (Ravin Goodwin).
Helen is worried that Paul is not taking his medicine, but Niecy states that she has it covered. The doorbell rings and Helen is greeted by one of the church ladies holding a cake. Helen tells the woman off and says she is about to cook her man some real food. When Paul gets home, she feeds him and asks for forgiveness, but Paul is not having it and presents her with divorce papers. Kara finds a diamond and thinks Orlando is about to propose at the retirement party. Turns out he does not propose but gives her a nameplate for her new office. In the meantime, Mary Jane is at the doctor’s office about to get two embryos implanted inside her without Justin. Once she leaves the doctor, she walks into her apartment and is amazed to see flowers everywhere. Justin is standing in the middle of the floor apologizing for his actions and states that he realizes what he wants. Justin gets down on one knee and proposes and the series ends with with a fantastic finale. “Being Mary Jane” fans will have to wait until season five to see if Mary Jane says yes.
Diversity in gender and race infiltrate 2017 Emmy Awards
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Zipporah Jones Staff Writer The 69th primetime Emmy Awards aired on Sept. 17, showcasing diversity from some of the most talented television stars in America. Stars from various television shows all flocked to the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles to see if they had a chance at getting an
Emmy or simply because they wanted to see who would receive one this year. Historically, these stars have not been people of color, and many of the winners were men, but this year a change has come. Several people made history during the awards show. Viewers of the Emmys were obviously excited about this, tweeting about the
significance of the diversity at the Emmys. Mary Sampson was pleased that African-American were finally recognized. “Though people have known it for quite some time now, they’re are finally noticing our AfricanAmerican’s talent and worth,” said Sampson, a freshman biology major from Jackson, Miss. Taylor Collins believes the recognition of minorities is bittersweet. “Because of the foundations of our country and the oppressive treatment of minorities, there is no shock that 2017 is a year of “firsts” for AfricanAmericans and women alike. It is just disappointing that it still has taken 69 years for this to happen. My only question is will this change continue?” said Collins, a freshman computer science major from Jackson, Miss. Some of the Emmy winners included Donald Glover, Lena Waite, Reed Morano and Sterling K. Brown, all people of diverse demographics.
Glover, director and lead actor of the hit comedy series “Atlanta”, was nominated for Outstanding Writer of a Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Directing of a Comedy Series. He not only made history by being the first AfricanAmerican actor to win an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series since 1985, but also became the first African-American director to win an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series. Brown, lead actor in the show, “This is Us”, was the first black actor to win Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series since 1998. Waite, writer of the comedy “Master of None”, became the first African-American woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. More women were recognized at the Emmys, including Morano, director of the television drama “The Handmaid’s Tale”. She was the first woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for
a Drama Series since 1995. Social media was abuzz with news of the history making awards given. Issa Rae, creator of the HBO comedy-drama series “Insecure” spoke out, saying that she was supporting all of the black people who were nominated. Twitter users excitedly tweeted about the Emmys saying things like, “I’m glad some people of color got the recognition they deserved” and “Emmys so diverse”. “Yes, there were AfricanAmerican wins this year, but it’s not enough. Blacks winning “First AfricanAmerican to”...in any category in 2017 (is a shame),” said Aja Drummer, a freshman education major from Jackson, Miss. She added, “It’s the same white women winning the same leading awards so it doesn’t excite me the least bit. Congrats to Nicole Kidman for winning her first Emmy but I’m sick of the same white women in Hollywood.” Many viewers wait to see if this trend will continue in subsequent awards programs.
The Blue & White Flash
News
Page 7 - September 28, 2017
Latasha Norman Center informs students about suicide prevention Chelsey Jones Managing Editor According to Rollingout. com, suicide is the third leading cause of death for African-Americans between the ages of 15 and 24. On Sept. 22, the Latasha Norman Center for Counseling Services (LNC) and the Metro Jackson Community Prevention Coalition, held an outreach presentation about suicide prevention. The event was held in the first-floor booth of the Jackson State University Student Center. Many students stopped by to learn more information about suicide prevention. At the event, LaQuita Sims, the LNC campus resource advocate, provided students with pamphlets that discussed mental illness, what to do if you have suicidal thoughts, what not to do when you have suicidal thoughts and warning signs. According to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, suicidewarning signs are as: •Talking, thinking, or writing about suicide •Talking about feeling worthless or hopeless •Losing interest in activities •Using or increasing use of drugs or alcohol •Any changes from typical behavior
Photo by Chelsey Jones JSU employee presents statistics during Suicide Prevention Awareness event.
Emanuel Powell, a junior from Suffolk,Va., felt the presentation would be helpful to him because of his major. “I’m a psychology major and these type of things interest me,” Powell said. “I also receive services from the third floor of the Liberal Arts building and I just wanted to see the difference between the two.” Other students stopped
by the outreach orientation because they were curious about the purpose of the Latasha Norman Center and suicide prevention. “I stopped by this suicide prevention session because it is a real serious cause and I wanted to find out what we had to offer and see how they can prevent it,” said Isaiah Reese, a sophomore accounting major from Jackson, Miss.
Reese also gave his opinion on the reason the suicide rate is high. “I believe the frequency of suicide is caused by so many different reasons but I believe social media and the school environment may be the main cause in the growing rate of young adult suicide cases.” According to e m o r y c a r e s f o r y o u . e m o r y. edu, there are more than
1,000 suicides on college campuses per year. The website also stated that 1 in 10 college students have made a plan to commit suicide. Powell feels it is important for college students to seek help if they have suicidal thoughts. “Being a college student is definitely not easy,” Powell said. “We deal with a lot. We deal with social engagements, the rigorous schoolwork and being around people we have never been around before. A lot of people are dealing with stuff internally and I feel as if they should seek help. I’m glad there is an option for help here at Jackson State.” For anyone who is looking for help or information, the Mental Department of Public Health suggests doing one of the following: •Go to the nearest emergency room •Call 911 •Visit www.dmh.ms.gov •Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800273. TALK (8255) •Visit www. whatadifference.org For more information about counseling, the Latasha Norman Center for Counseling Services is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Center in suite 2102. The center’s contact number is (601) 979-0374.
Jackson State welcomes students to annual High School Day Alexandria Galtney
Editor-in-Chief
Jackson State University’s High School Day recruitment event was filled with music, school spirit and excitement on Sept. 23. High school students from all over the state of Mississippi and a few from out-of-state, as well as members of various organizations around the city, took to the Athletic Assembly Center to see what JSU has to offer. Students who were taking photos were asked to use #JSUHSDAY17 to keep the event trending through social media. Jackson State President William D. Bynum gave a heart-warming welcome to all those coming in and asked that ever yone fully enjoy all the activities in store for them throughout the day. He thanked the parents and the organizations present for their participation in the event and also thanked his wife, First Lady Deborah Bynum, for accompanying him that morning. Alexis Moore, a senior biology major from Ridgeland, Miss. and current Student Government Association president said, “I am excited to welcome all of the incoming freshman to High School Day, and I hope they learn so much from our university that they come back and visit.” The JSU Royal court, including the newly crowned Little Royals, also took to the floor to hype up the crowd and get them excited about the eventful day. High school students and other prospective students were given information from various departments and
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organizations during the exciting event. The JSU Blue Ambassadors took to the floor to make sure that the high school students were energetic throughout the day by asking students to come onto the floor and dance with them to the university’s choreographed dance. A student from each school came on the floor to represent their school and to see who was the ‘litest’ in a spirit contest. This set the tone for the day. “It was cool to see the incoming students get up and dance and be interactive with us. We didn’t expect them to do all that but I hope this continues throughout the rest of the day,” said Karanja Mator y, a junior political science major from Jackson, Miss. During the performance part of the event, members of the Dance Assemble, JSU Dazzlers, JSU Modeling Squad, JSU cheerleaders, Outspoken and the National Pan-Hellenic Council, had students on the edge of their seats. Telandus Craft, a senior biology/pre-medicine major from Forest, Miss. said, “ It was a good day and I hope the students had fun today and got good information about the various organizations and departments that our university offers.” High School Day ended with a special performance by the Sonic Boom of the South before students broke into their groups for their individual tours. High School Day guests were also treated to free attendance to JSU’s first home game against the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions.
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(1-5) Jackson State University High School Day participants were greeted by President William B. Bynum Jr., Miss & Mr JSU and their Royal Court, learn more about the outstanding academic programs offered, The Sonic Boom of the South and much more. The day concluded with a battle on the gridiron against the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Lions at 6 p.m. at the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The all-day event was held on Saturday, September 23, 2017.
Photos by Kalin Norman
Sports
Page 8 - September 28, 2017
The Blue & White Flash
JSU honors Leaders turned Legends at Sports Hall of Fame
Photo by Alexandria Galtney 30th Annual Sports Hall of Fame honorees.
Alexandria Galtney
Editor-in-Chief
Jackson State University celebrated legendary athletes and their contributions at the 30th Annual Sports Hall of Fame Banquet on Sept. 22 in the Student Center Ballrooms. The athletes honored at the night’s event were bestowed a plaque and a medallion in recognition of their athletic
achievements. The 2017 JSU Sports Hall of Fame inductees were: •Bennie Crenshaw, an All-Southwestern Athletic Conference performer in football and baseball and a JSU Football Captain from ’63-’65 who lettered in both baseball and football •Schuyler Doakes ,a fouryear starter at short-stop and SWAC player of the year 1997
•Johnny Jerome Edwards, an All-SWAC outfielder and SWAC Most Outstanding Hitter for baseball in 1990 •Jesse Griffin, a four-year letterman and SWAC football Defensive Player of the Year 1977 •Victor Hall, a four-year varsity letterman and a threeyear starter at tight-end for football •Edgar “Chico” Grant Jordan, a Big Eight conference
team member for five times in football •Jimmy Patterson, a track and field star who led JSU to its first National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) National Championship in 1973. Five of the honorees were able to attend the event honoring their past athletic skills that contributed to the university. Jordan received his award posthumously and Patterson was ill an unable to attend the event. Both the families of Jordan and Patterson accepted their awards on their behalf. The master of ceremony for the evening was Robert “Rob Jay” Jeuitt, and the JSU String Ensemble provided music. Honoree’s and their families were also able to enjoy a musical performance by the Sonic Boom of the South under the direction of Roderick D. Little, associate director of bands, and the JSU Cheerleaders. Dinner was served and honoree’s and attendee were able to reminisce on the past athletic performances of the honorees through a video presentation. The Legends turned Leaders participated in a question and answer session, with Rob Jay interviewing the honorees on their fondest memories at their alma mater. “My fondest memory at
Jackson State is that we were undefeated in ’63. That year was the only year we beat Grambling, ”said Crenshaw, a football Sports Hall of Fame honoree. Some of the honorees broke down in tears over their nomination. Doakes, a baseball Sports Hall of Fame nominee, was in tears when he received his nomination. “This is an amazing honor and I am so grateful to have my name alongside some of Jackson State’s greatest athletes. My son is here with me tonight and I am just happy my family is able to share this moment with me,” said Doakes. The night continued with tears of joy and laughter as the questions and answers continued until the honorees were awarded their medals and plaques. JSU President William B. Bynum and Director of Athletics Wheeler Brown ended the night with a few remarks before the program concluded with singing of the alma mater, “Jackson Fair.” “This is my first time attending one of these Jackson State functions and I am honored to be here to meet some of the greatest legends to have graced the fields in several sports. I congratulate you all on this great achievement,” said President Bynum.
Tigers look for first season win against Prairie View A&M Morgan Beard Sports Writer The Jackson State University Tigers will travel to Prairie View, Texas to take on the Panthers of Prairie View A&M. The Panthers bring in a (1-2) overall record with (1-0) record in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play. Jackson State is (0-4) overall with a (0-1) record in the SWAC. The Tigers are one game behind Alcorn State University and Alabama A&M. Only one team in 10 years, University of Arkansas Pine Blue, has won a SWAC Championship after losing their league opener. JSU leads the all time series (38-17-2). This will be the 57th meeting between both HBCUS. Prairie View has won 3 of the last 4 meeting between these schools. The Panthers are coming off a 34-0 victory over Alabama State Hornets. PVAM lost in week one 44-31 to the Cougars of Sam Houston State University with another loss coming week two to the Colonels of Nicholls State University 44-13. Jackson State quarterback Brent Lyles has not turned the ball over in the last two games. This week he will be looking
Photo: JSU blitz Jackson State running back Jordan Johnson (17) attempts to run through PVAM defenders.
for his playmaker receivers to catch some passes for a touchdown. The Panthers are coached by Willie Simmons, who has a coaching record of (17-7). He has coached at Prairie View since 2015 and is the former offensive coordinator for the Alcorn State Braves 2014
SWAC championship team. He is the youngest head coach in the SWAC. Prairie View red shirt junior quarterback Lavell McCullers is the field general for the Panthers. In three games, he has passed 42 of 5 for 460 yards passing and 1 passing touchdown.
Prairie View defeated JSU 28-14 at last year’s Homecoming. In 2015, PVAM defeated JSU 56-14. In 2014, PVAM defeated JSU 48-30. According to the JSU Blitz, senior linebacker Shawn Bishop said, “They are a good team, we know that. Everyone is going to have to
be 100 percent, and we have to eliminate the small mistakes that have big consequences.” PVAM has the number 2 total offense in the SWAC, averaging 407.3 yards a game. The Panthers are ranked number 1 in the SWAC for running the football with 6 rushing touchdowns and an average of 221.3 yards per game. The offensive line will have to continue leading the way for the two-headed running attack the Tigers have in sophomores Jordan Johnson from Terry, Miss, and Terreal Kennedy from Mobile, Ala. Johnson is the 3rd best running back in the SWAC after the first four games. Jackson State senior cornerback Dario Robinson is having a breakout season this year as he leads the Tigers in interceptions. The Tigers defensive line will have to step up to pull off a win. In the last three games, the Tigers defense has caused turnovers with fumbles and interceptions. This SWAC conference game will take place Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Panthers Stadium. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. To listen to the game on radio, tune into 95.5 FM. To watch the game live on television, tune into Live stream on JSUTV.
Tigers fall short in home opener against UAPB Golden Lions Morgan Beard Sports Writer
Jackson State University’s football home opener against the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions was an emotionally charged contest from beginning to end. The Tigers had something to play for, a turn around to their 2017 season after a (03) start. The Tigers started off slow in the first quarter as UAPB running back, KeShawn Williams, scored the first touchdown with 6:55 on the clock. Brent Lyles, JSU’s sophomore quarterback, made his eleven career start and scored the Tiger’s first touchdown on a 17-yard run to tie the game 7-7 in the first quarter. Lyles would go on to complete 18 of 29 passes for 127 yards with no turnovers. This was the second game straight that Lyles, and Indianapolis, Ind. native, scored a rushing touchdown with no turnovers. In the second quarter, junior kicker Christian Jacquemin from Miami, Fla., connected on a 28-yard field
goal to give the Tigers their first lead in the game, 107. Jacquemin was perfect for two field goals and four punts with 151 yards with the longest being 52 yards. In the second quarter with only a few seconds left on the clock, Lyles rolled out to the back of the end zone and felt pressure from UAPB defense, causing a team safety and changing the score to 10-9 with JSU still leading. UAPB wide receiver Robert Simms III caught a one-yard pass from Brandon Duncan giving the UAPB a 16-10 lead. Jordan Johnson, a sophomore running back from Terry, Miss., answered with a 60-yard touchdown run to give the Tigers a 17-16 lead. Johnson rushed for 130 yards on 19 carries averaging 6.8 yards per carry. That was Johnson’s longest run from scrimmage. He also rushed for 268 yards and scored two touchdowns. In the third quarter, the Tigers continued to put points on the scoreboard with a 25-yard field goal kick by Jacquemin bringing the score to 20-16. Fifteen seconds later, senior corner
back Dario Robinson picked off UAPB quarterback Duncan Pass for a 40-yard interception return to give the Tigers a 27-16 lead. This was the last time Jackson State put points on the board. In the fourth quarter, UAPB scored 10 unanswered points to tie the game up 2727 with 15 seconds left on the clock. The Tigers offense couldn’t move the ball on the field for more than five minutes. JSU was without starting running back Jordan Johnson, who rushed 135 yards on 19 carries in the first three quarters. According to JSU Blitz, JSU Coach Tony Hughes said he returned to the game, but he didn’t have a carry in the final quarter. Sophomore running back Terrell Kennedy from Mobile, Ala., had four carries for yards in his stead. The Tigers did not give the same push in the final quarter shown in the previous three. The Tigers played their first overtime game of the season tied up 27-27. Arkansas Pine Bluff received the ball first
Photo: JSU blitz Wide Reciver Romello Shumake (23) attempts to break away from UAPB defenders.
for overtime. The Tigers defense thought they had UAPB stopped on third down to set up what would have been at least a 50yard field goal to tie. However, JSU was called for pass interference on the visiting sideline allowing UAPB to move the ball into field goal range. The Golden Lions scored a passing touchdown
to win the game 34-27. Although the Tigers continue to fight, the first win of the season remains elusive. The Tigers will take on the Panthers of Prairie View A&M at Panther Stadium in Prairie View, Texas. This game is set for kickoff at 4 p.m. central time and you can also listen to the game on 95.5 radio.