FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi
www.thejsuflash.com
INSIDE
Vol. 77 / No. 6 OPINION Police Shooting page 3
September 29, 2016
S P O RT S
VA R I E T Y
NEWS
L a d y Ti g e r Vo l l e y b a l l page 8
Tre n d i n g To p i c s page 5
NPHC Week page 4
Photo: William H. Kelly III Junior JSU student Jauan Knight speaks during the Who Will Decide for You panel discussion and debate watch party.
JSU holds election panel discussion and debate watch party Aaron Walker Staff Writer Presidential hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump faced off in the first nationally broadcasted debate since winning their party’s nomination on Sept. 26 on NBC. The debate was considered a defining moment of the 2016 campaign for both candidates. The College of Liberal Arts, Department of Speech and Theatre and the Department of Political Science all collaborated to present “Who Will Decide for you? First Presidential Debate” watch party, which featured a pre-debate student panel discussion. The students serving on that panel included: Lemuel Barney, a junior political science major from Houston, Texas; Tamarcus Lott, a senior speech communication major from Memphis, Tenn.; Jaclyn Bush, a junior theatre major from
Ridgeland, Miss.; Le’Ana Rhett, a sophomore political science major from Snellville, Ga.; Gerald Harris, a senior mass communication major from Nashville, Tenn.; and Kendall Bunch, Student Government Association President and senior accounting major from Olive Branch, Miss. The moderator was Lolita Gray, an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science. Bunch stated that about 2,000 out of the 4,000 students are registered voters. Some of the issues discussed were police brutality, immigration, crime and education, and gender equality. Police brutality was one of the hottest topics and included heated discussions on perception that there is a lack of training police officers and a need for conflict resolution training. Some of the students in attendance were eager to see if the debate would offer more
insight on the candidate’s positions on many topics. Bessie House-Soremekun, associate dean of Liberal Arts, attended the event in hopes of gaining more information on the candidate’s and their positions of several issues. “I’m a multi-issue voter and I am looking at a broad spectrum of issues,” said HouseSoremekun. Lester Holt, anchor for NBC Nightly News, moderated the televised event. The debate was divided into six timed segments of approximately 15 minutes each on major topics to be selected by the moderator. These topics included questions about ISIS, jobs, cyber warfare, Trump’s tax returns, Clinton’s email scandal, and race in America. Hillary Clinton was deemed the winner of Monday night’s debate by 62 percent of voters who tuned in to watch, while just 27 percent said they thought Donald Trump had the better
night, according to a CNN/ORC Poll of voters who watched the debate. Donovan Barner said the debate did little to sway him in any direction but it was a fun watch. “In my honest opinion, I feel that Hillary won, though I am not a supporter. Trump came off very flustered and seemed very defensive. The issue I found most interesting is Trump questioning and attacking Hillary on her support of the Trans Pacific Partnership and her lack of transparency in her views of national security,” said Barner, a freshman English major from Jackson, Miss. “I feel more of a disdain for both Clinton and Trump after the debate.” Other students, like Jelicia Smith, felt that Hillary Clinton was a clear winner of round 1. “Hillary did the best by far. She attempted to stay on topic and actually had valid points to prove,” said Smith, a sophomore
industrial technology major from Jackson, Miss. “The issue that interested me the most is when they talked about stop and frisk because I wanted to know their opinions. The debate didn’t change my opinion, it just gave me further reasons to endorse my candidate and why I agree with the choice I made because #I’mwithher.” Cedric Piggs also believed Clinton defeated Trump in the first debate. “I believe Hilary to be the best candidate. The concerns and issues that Hilary discussed pertained to the betterment of the country. The issue of race is something that Hilary talked about that intrigued me,” said Piggs, a junior English major from Bronx, N.Y. The Presidential election will take place on Nov. 8, 2016. Students who have not already registered have until Oct. 8 to do so and become eligible to cast a vote for their candidate of choice.
High school students learn media skills at MSPA workshops Special to the Flash Mississippi Scholastic Press Association (MSPA) Fall Workshops for high school students were held at the Mississipi eCenter on Sept. 28. Hosted by the Jackson State University School of Journalism and Media Studies, students from a variety of Mississippi high schools learned about how to become better journalists, editors, photographers, and more. The workshop lasted from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This was the first year MSPA was held at JSU, and comes after the Spring 2016 announcement of a new partnership between JSU and the University of Mississippi. Several categories were discussed in the workshops to help the student better themselves in many fields of journalism, including news writing, feature writing, photography, design and layout, and many other topics. Students attended college
Photo: William H. Kelly III High school students discuss news story topics during the MSPA News Writing session.
journalism classes and labs and were able to gain hands on experience in many aspects of media. The MSPA workshop served as a guide for high school students interested in a career in journalism.
“This workshop has been an eye-opener as to what I can expect as far as journalism in college,” said Amber Gillespie, a senior at Murrah High School and yearbook staff member. Students who attended the workshop were taught courses
by college professors who teach college journalists. “Just to hear from more professional journalists and people who have more experience was very helpful to me,” said Ishmael Gray, a senior at Murrah High School and member of the YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!
yearbook staff. The workshop also helped students who were unsure about their college majors visualize a career in journalism. “It’s making me realize whether I want to go into journalism or not; if it’s the major I really want to go into,” said Abbie McCool, a senior at Yazoo County High School and member of the yearbook. MSPA offers opportunities to high school students who wish to improve their journalistic skills. The MSPA workshops aid many of these students in determining their future in journalism. Editor’s Note: This story was written by high school students participating in the MSPA Fall Workshops hosted by the JSU School of Journalism and Media Studies. Matthew Hairston (Murrah High School), Reagan Bussey (Warren Central High School) Abbie Mccool (Yazoo County High School), and Ashton Giesecke (Madison Central) all contributed to this story.
@thejsuflash
Politics
Page 2 - September 29, 2016
The Blue & White Flash
The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
40
P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu
JSU’s 7-Day Weather Forecast
days
THURSDAY High 79o Low 54o Sunny
FRIDAY High 80o Low 55o Sunny
SATURDAY High 84o Low 58o Sunny
SUNDAY High 86o Low 59o Sunny
MONDAY High 88o Low 61o Mostly Sunny
TUESDAY High 90o Low 65o Mostly Sunny
WEDNESDAY
42%
45%
Jackson State students discuss participating in the political process Nicholas Thornton Staff Writer In the midst of heated debates between Presidential candidates, democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and republican nominee Donald Trump, voter disinterest could have a major impact on the election. Slated for Nov. 8, 2016, voters have 39 days to decide who will lead the United States of America. So what factors are determining whom voters will choose? In a Pew Research Center poll, 33 percent of Trump supporters and about as many Clinton supporters (32 percent) frame their vote at least partially in opposition to the other candidate. In other words, some voters are really casting their vote against a candidate rather than in favor of the other. Students in the Jackson State University Student Government Association (SGA) and the Department of Political Science, offered insight into the current election process and what factors are driving their voting decisions. Isaac Gaines, SGAVice President said he defined voting as a way for the people to get their questions answered. “When a student casts their vote, not only is their voice being
heard, their voice is creating a path for future generations. When one student votes, they are voting for change,” said Gaines. Rachel Payton, a senior marketing major minoring in political science from Hattiesburg, Miss., and member of the SGA, believes that politics starts at home. “One of the main things I would say that would get more people involved in voting is gaining an understanding of what they’re voting for. We could do more on our part by getting people educated on the voting process to expand voter participation,” said Payton. Although a select group of students have an interest in politics, there some students who show little to no interest in politics. Devin Cousin, a junior mass communication major from Florence, Miss., and Aleia Buford, a junior biology/pre-physical therapy major from Greenwood, Miss., are among the students who are not as aware of the political issues being discussed but do know that they dislike one or both of the front-running candidates. “I don’t know a lot about politics, but I do know a little bit. This year’s elections is between evil and evil,” said Cousin.
OCTOBER TH
High 93o Low 68o
8
Mostly Sunny
The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager
KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer
WILLIAM H. KELLY III Editor- in-Chief
DEIRDRA HARRIS GLOVER Managing Editor
Morgan Beard Demond Lewis Taya Drummer-Chaney Roderick McNair Alexandria Galtney Vandaz Lewis-Nation Kendria Haley Jasmine Parham Rhis Harris Kayla Smith Muhammad Hassan Aaron Walker Chelsey Jones Jonet’ Washington Kennedy Jones Jennifer Wiles
Buford stated he had major disdain for one of the candidates and did not want that person to have control. “I’m not really into politics because it is not interesting, but I do know that Donald Trump is a turn off,” Buford said. “Opinions matter! You’re giving a person power over things that may affect you and others within that environment.” Shaqua Holmes, a senior computer technology major from Jackson, Miss., said the reason for voting is to elect someone to lead the people in the right direction, but he also holds a belief that no matter who wins the election, the turnout will not affect his daily routine. “Because I have never voted, I am not a fan of politics; however, I am not with Trump on his stance towards students,” said Holmes. Rachel Payton believes all students eligible to vote, should do so. “Staying at home is the worst possible thing one can do during election season. Your vote is important because politics affect scholarship/financial aid,” said Payton. If you are not registered to vote, the deadline in Mississippi is Oct. 8. For more information on voter registration, visit www. sos.ms.gov.
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.
Subscription Information
Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.
The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
Page 3 - September 29, 2016
Cartoon: Rhis Harris
Bias and brutality: Untangling the greatest problem in policing COMMENTARY
Deirdra Harris Glover Managing Editor
I was wary of short haircuts and suits as a kid. My musician father and artist mother didn’t have friends with “respectable jobs,” and I only saw my grandparents in casual clothes. My mother was the epitome of beauty to me, equal parts punk and glam. My father was tall and intense, with hair past his shoulders. He played music
like he was wrestling with monsters. The truth was, they both were wrestling: both of my parents struggled with drinking and drugs. People around town would shyly ask Dad for his autograph, but we got lots of questions from cops. I didn’t like suits, and I noticed they didn’t like us much, either. I noticed that police officers looked at my parents differently than they regarded my grandparents. School taught me that officers were to be trusted, but they treated my parents—the two people who loved me best—with suspicion and unease. I saw my dad get arrested once, and the way the officers threw his wiry body still makes me sick. We moved from Miami to the outskirts of Atlanta when I was 12. The officers seemed comfortable with the monthly KKK marches at the Clayton County courthouse, but held my
hippie-rocker parents and my artsy friends. Traveling with my father is interesting. He talks loudly due to decades of playing in front of monster amps; I talk loudly because he needs to hear me. He dresses like a time capsule, a ripped t-shirt, jeans and a leather vest, with scarves or billowy shirts. We are weird—other—to many people. We went to England the year after Mom died, and when we came back, the airport security guy saw my dad on the escalator. He sprinted over with the drug dog to wait for my dad at the bottom of the escalator. The officer looked like someone had surprised him with cake, but ended up empty-handed. I was so red-faced and angry; our family friend hurried me away. Ingrained biases affect all of us. Just as I was conditioned by my environment to “other” bankers and real
estate agents, we are all conditioned by our personal and shared experiences for and against others. No one should be cursorily judged, but we do it every day. It is a machine we have built together, bolstered by media and entertainment. We fear what we are conditioned to fear, unless we willfully dismantle those systems of thinking. It is the great work of our lives. It is the most important work of a law enforcement officer, and it appears to have been overlooked again… this time in Tulsa and Charlotte. Threat assessment is a vital part of what keeps officers alive on the streets. Gavin de Becker is the nation’s foremost expert on violence prediction and management. His book “The Gift of Fear” tells readers to trust the tickling of fear in the back of our brains, because they are picking up on cues signaling woe. His work also focuses on recognizing real danger
as opposed to perceived danger: unpacking and untangling our own personal bias in situations where we feel threatened. Ingrained bias and police-sanctioned violence against unarmed people of color are our nation’s long bare nerve, struck repeatedly. Police officers receive less training than most states require for a cosmetology license, and are responsible for literal life-and-death moments. They are not paid well for this burden, and they are not given the skills and continuing education they deserve to do their jobs. Law enforcement officers need more training in threat assessment and the space to identify their own privilege and prejudice. Police need to be able to trust their instincts, not socialized biases. 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 feel is the underlying cause of the reported cases of deadly force used by the police?” Compiled by Morgan Beard, Chelsey Jones, Dwayne Joseph Jr., Tyvarras Lindsey, William H. Kelly III, and Jennifer Wiles
Halima Marion Junior Criminal Justice West Point, N.Y.
Markus Brooks Criminal Justice Freshman Bloomington, Ill.
“Because they feel that they have the badge to hide behind and justify their actions. Often times they choose to disregard the error of their actions. ”
“I feel like lack of sensitivity training & racial profiling from police officers, and empathy from both civilians and police officers are our underlying issues.”
“I think police shoot unarmed AfricanAmericans because they fear us. They stereotype black people as dangerous and a threat to society.”
Devin Houston Junior
Jermiah White Freshman
Jalyn McElroy Freshman
Chicago, Ill.
Jackson, Miss.
Kiana McFadden Junior Earth System Waynesboro, Miss.
Computer Engineering
Speech Communications
“I feel as though that maybe sometimes power gets over used and abused to strike or implement a fear system to regulate certain mishaps or outbreaks amongst African-Americans.”
“I feel the underlying cause is basically the media and how they portray the black people, really people in general, but mainly blacks.”
Meridian, Miss.
Environmental Science
“I feel that the police really, honestly hate us.”
Tiana Mobley Junior Criminal Justice Biloxi, Miss. “I feel the underlying cause is when police go through training and are taught shoot to kill, not shoot to wound.”
Breia Armstrong Senior Social Work Jackson, Miss.
Edgar Johnson Junior
“Having a lack of knowledge and being raised with ignorant beliefs of minorities. They feel that respect and authority is more important than the safety of the citizens.”
“I feel we’re so used to getting into arguments with police and the image of them is so bad, that when they try to check us on something small like speeding, we just overreact and come off as disrespectful.”
Matthew Buggs Senior Music Education Stonemountain, Ga.
Brittney McMillion Junior Elementary Education Chicago, Ill.
“In today’s soceity the media has portrayed the African-American individual as being more ‘deadly’ and having a ‘gangsta’ mentality.”
“They are using excessive force because they are scared. They realize that African-Americans are the dominating species so they resort back to the only thing they know which is killing us. ”
Computer Engineering
Homewood, Ill.
Devin Cousin Junior Mass Communication Florence, Miss. “We are now at the point where I feel as if the police believe that it is acceptable because they can get away with it now. They are not accountable for their actions.”
News
Page 4 - September 29, 2016
JSU NPHC promotes anti-hazing
Alexandria Galtney & Kyle Kidd-Buckner Staff Writers The Jackson State University National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) hosted their annual NPHC Week in conjunction with Anti-Hazing Prevention Week, focusing on the issue of hazing in the AfricanAmerican Greek community. The fraternities and sororities parted ways for the “Brother 2 Brother” forum for male students and “Sister 2 Sister” forum for female students, on Sept. 20 from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom A and Senate Chamber. The “Brother 2 Brother” forum was a panel-styled discussion that was comprised of a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta, Inc. A question presented was, “What are good excuses to why people haze or get hazed? Eric Hobson of Phi Beta Sigma replied, “Tradition. Most believe that when you have a rich history of fraternity in your family you have no choice but to follow that tradition of hazing and being hazed.” Jackson State has an AntiHazing Policy in place for all students which reads in part: Jackson State University is dedicated to maintaining an environment that promotes academic excellence and the collective responsibility of its community members … Therefore, the university has a zero-tolerance policy for hazing to protect the safety and well-being of all students. The policy, which can be found in its entirety at http:// www.jsums.edu/studentlife/ files/2014/08/2014-2015Anti-Hazing-Policy.pdf, also explains that Jackson State University complies with all local, state, and federal laws and upheld its commitment through the University Student Code of Conduct. Participation in hazing subjects the individual or organization to university disciplinary actions and may be punishable by law. .. Organizations or individuals that are found guilty of hazing will result in a sanction of expulsion from the university.
Any violation of university policy or state law should be immediately reported to Public Safety (601) 979-2580 and/or the Division of Student Affairs (601) 979-2241. The “Sister 2 Sister” forum gave women the opportunity to come out and discuss information regarding Greek organization hazing, stereotypes and how to properly show interest in a Greek organization. The panel included Demetrias WilliamsWells of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Rosella Houston of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and Lynda Hasberry, of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. The night was filled with a little laughter, some girl talk, and a moments of awkward silence as each question was answered. Hasberry believes the forum was a success. “I definitely think it did help them learn because a lot of young ladies whether they have Greeks in their family or not, they still have a lot of misconceptions about Greek-dom, and I do think this panel, by bringing each sorority together, definitely shed some light on some of those stereotypes that they may have held for a while and they are getting a chance to be dispelled,” said Hasberry. The event of the week, “It’s Everyone’s Responsibility,” was held on Sept. 22. Mea Ashley,
assistant director of student involvement and Miss JSU 2011-2012, shared her story on hazing and how it affected her life. “I think it affected my future by allowing me to be able to come back and be an advocate against hazing because I was caught up, I went about it the wrong way, and because I experienced a negative affect of it. Now I can come back with my career and use my experience as a platform to show students that it is not the right thing to do and the way they (Greeks) should go about initiating members without doing it illegally, which is hazing,” said Ashley. 2014 JSU Alumnae, Ashley Norwood, presented her documentary as well that spoke on the black Greek culture at a PWI and how significantly different it was from an HBCU. Norwood’s documentary, “The Fly in the Buttermilk” is available for viewing on Vimeo. To end the week, on Sept. 23, NPHC President Jacqualyn Stokes, a senior criminal justice major from Canton, Miss. and member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. announced the results of the toiletry drive held from Sept. 20-23. Approximately 1,300 items were collected and will be donated to the Jackson Hinds Mental Illness Home.
@jacksonstateu Last week, the NPHC organizations held toiletry drives that resulted in the collection of more than 1,300 items! The toiletry items were donated to the Community Welfare & Health Center.
The Blue & White Flash
Chlamydia is a rampant STI among college-aged students
Demond Lewis MC Contributor/Staff HIV is a disease many people tend to focus on when it comes to STDs and STIs. However, there are other infections and diseases on college campuses that are just as harmful. Dr. Samuel Jones Jr., a practicing physician at the Health Center at Jackson State University, described these infections. “The most common STI probably among college aged students is chlamydia. The reason why it is getting to be so common is because most persons don’t have symptoms. Males typically don’t have symptoms. Women who get it, maybe weeks after, will develop symptoms. The symptoms may go away, but the infection continues to do damage to the internal organs of the lady,” said Jones. According to the Department of Health, the symptoms of chlamydia include a thick, cloudy discharge from the penis or vagina, painful bowel movements, and a burning sensation when urinating. Jones added, “There are other STDs that are perhaps, to some degree, more serious longterm. HIV, but luckily it’s not common. But again, the risk is there, and there are a number of persons that manage to get exposed and become infected; and that requires a great deal of care.”
Students who feel that they are at risk of being infected can visit the Health Clinic on the JSU campus. “We do have in conjunction with the health department a grant, and they allow us to do free chlamydia and gonorrhea testing on urine. Although it’s not quite as superior as the direct swab, it still is very adequate for a massive screening. We have it, and it’s free. On this campus, that has been very helpful in helping us to detect infections that we otherwise would not have been likely to detect,” said Jones. Aleia Buford, a junior biology/pre-physical therapy major from Greenwood, Miss., says that it is all about being responsible. “I feel like if you’re going to be sexually active, you should use protection, because you don’t know who everybody has been with. That prevents STDs,” said Buford. Buford added, “Sometimes, depending on what kind of STD you get, it can be cured. Sometimes it can’t, you’re just stuck with it for life. I feel like everybody should just be aware of the symptoms of different STDs and how it can be transmitted. Katie Hunt, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Atlanta, Ga., said she felt that it is about being honest with your sex partner. “To be honest, when you’re dealing with somebody and you know you’re going to be active, that’s definitely a question you should ask. That’s nothing you should be ashamed of. If you have something, you have to let that person know, because it’s not fair to them,” said Hunt. Hunt added, “If you do get it, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s yours now, so you have to take care of yourself.” For more questions about STDs, STIs, or any other illnesses, students can visit the Health Center located across from the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center or call 601979-2260. They are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.
Graduate student conducts six-week yoga experiment Taya Drummer MC Contributor/Staff Jackson State University provides various activities for students to join in to forget about the stress that comes with being a college student. Siew Kwoh, a doctoral student in the clinical psychology department, held a six-week study on the effects yoga has on a student mentally and physically, on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., in the Walter Peyton Recreational Center, Studio D. Students who participate in the experiment are introduced to yoga, another form of exercise that can be beneficial in every aspect of their lives. Some of the expected results includes relaxation, positive
thoughts, reduced stress, and the regulation of emotions in the best way possible. Kwoh, the conductor of the experiment says this is for the students. “It is not about me. It is about the college population. The driving force behind this is that I want to help students learn how to reduce stress and to regulate their emotions in a healthy and natural way,” said Kwoh. “My primary concern as a clinician to be, is how to help people reduce stress. I found out yoga hasn’t been widely explored in this part of the country.” She continued to say yoga is a discipline, it is just not an exercise. “Sometimes it’s misunderstood as a religion. Depending on how you define
a religion, if you’re truly committed to something anything could be considered a religion. Yoga includes diet, thoughts, exercise, relaxation, and meditation. These are the five main points of yoga,” said Kwoh. “I have many chances to repeat this experiment in a one year time period. If this shows a positive result I am open to carry out more experiments or workshops even to help people get to know yoga better,” said Kwoh. Jayah Alexander, a sophomore graphic design major from Greenville, Miss., has felt the effects yoga has had on her mind. “The effects that yoga has had on me so far have been positive and it helps me remain stress free throughout
the week,” said Alexander. “I believe that it is very important for us to take part in any activities on campus. It is a way to improve yourself and be a part of something amazing.” Other participants such as Zenovia Bradly, a senior special education major from Kansas City, Mo., explains how yoga helps her as a college student. “I’m taking a very difficult English class it’s really stressing me out and it keeps me up at night. So I know after I take yoga it helps me sleep at night and be more relaxed. It helps you be happier, just the exercise and positive things in general. Especially with all the craziness going on in the news, media, and in school a positive outlook is what students need,” said Bradly.
Shaquetta Johnson, a senior biology major from Columbia, Miss., is another participant who enjoys the yoga. “Personally I’ve started doing it while I was at my community college and I recognized that it did help me as far as my stress levels with classes and personal life. I had a lot on my mind walking in here and now I feel better,” said Johnson. According to Kwoh, the yoga experiment has approximately twenty participants on Mondays and Wednesdays and seventeen on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which exceeded her expectations. Students can join the study until the end of October. For more information, contact Kwoh at siew.y.kwoh@ students.jsums.edu.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1-6.) Students who participated in the yoga study were taught yoga positions and techniques to help relieve stress.
Photos by Vandaz A. Lewis-Nation
The Blue & White Flash of
“Brangelina” divorce after child abuse allegations
On Monday, Sept. 19, actress Angelina Jolie filed for divorce from actor Brad Pit. This news comes shortly after the couple’s two-year wedding anniversary. The couple formally known as, Brangelina, has been together for a total of 12 years and has six kids together. A source close to actor Brad Pit stated, “He got a heads-up two days before, and he was appealing to her to do this quietly – not to save the marriage but to consider the well -being of the children – and it was ignored. He is just wrecked by this.” Pit is reportedly under investigation for child abuse by the L.A. County Department
Children and Family services. According to TMZ, there was an incident in which Pitt reportedly got verbally and physically abusive with the couple’s eldest child, Maddox, 15. Hollywood Life states that Jolie wants full custody of the couple’s six kids; three biological and three adopted. TMZ is claiming the reasoning of the divorce was because of Pit’s anger issues, rumors of infidelity, smoking marijuana, and overly drinking alcohol.
Mary J. Blige files for divorce from husband and manager
In other news, singer Mary J. Blige also files for divorce from husband/manager Martin “Kendu” Isaacs; ending their 13 year marriage. According to In Touch Weekly, Blige cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split. A rep for Blige tells TMZ, “Ms. Blige is saddened to say it is true that she has filed for divorce saying sometimes things don’t work how we hoped they would…but, there is a divine plan and a reason for everything. Mary will continue
Page 5 - September 29, 2016
Variety
writing and working on her album which is due to come out later this year along with her world tour. She thanks and appreciates her fans for their support and love through this very difficult emotional time.” Kendu recently responded to Blige’s divorce appeal and is reportedly asking for spousal support and wants Blige to pay for all of his lawyer’s fees.
Ex-wife of legendary singer, Prince, reveals Prince’s drug usage in book
In the meantime, the exwife of the late Prince is planning to write a tell all book about the couple’s relationship. Prince’s ex-wife, Mayte Garcia, has confirmed that she will write a book about her time with the legendary singer. The couple was married for four years in the 90s and allegedly had a son in 1996 who was born with Pfeiffer syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, who later died. Garcia was also Prince’s first wife. “I want to share our love story, and with it the highs and lows – always coming from a loving place, as this man is still part of my family and always will be,” said Garcia; in an interview with Metro blog. The memoir is set to be released in April on the anniversary of Prince’s death; the book is titled “The Most Beautiful.”
Google Images
“Prince was loved all throughout the world but few knew him intimately. And ours was a rare, almost otherworldly connection.” Matye explained according to the daily mail. Allegedly, this book will
not only contain the highs and lows of Garcia and Prince’s four-year relationship, but it will also reveal drug usage in the 90s and the singer’s thoughts on some of the biggest names in music.
Play chronicles struggle young adults go through to become adults
Laura Burns Senior Social Work New Orleans, La. • Olive Garden • Pat O’Brien’s • Café du Monde
Antranekia Williams Senor Social Work Crystal Springs, Miss. • Wing Stop • Papa Johns • Outback Steakhouse Gerson Guevara Sophomore Urban Studies Oxon Hill, Md. • Pollo Campero • Sonic • Red Lobster Jamessa Davis Junior Social Work Westpoint, Miss. • Captain D’s • Ruth Chris • Longhorns
Jonathan Tugle Junior Social Work Clarksdale, Miss. • Chili’s • Buffalo Wild Wings • Steak and Shake
Photo: Nadia Bodie-Smith Prof. Yohance Myles walking student actors through a fight scene.(L-R) Avery Evans, Joseph Henderson, Prof. Yohance Myles, Syderick Maiten.
Nicholas Thornton Staff Writer The Jackson State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Department of Speech Communication & Theatre will debut “A Streetcar Named Desire” written by Tennessee Williams and directed by Yolanda Williams on Sept. 29. This story chronicles the continuous struggle young adults go through while maturing into adults. One of the characters, Blanche Dubois, is a young woman who is currently dealing with the everyday struggles of life, and one day she decides to flee from Mississippi with a secret that could ultimately destroy and shatter the existence of her fragile life. Williams believes the storyline is perfect for college students. “This production is right on time for the freshmen! The characters in this play are young adults. They are not too old, not too young. So I think a lot of the students will be able to relate to the production because these characters are trying to live out their lives. Much like how the students are trying to find themselves while living out their lives while attending college,” said
Williams, a visiting professor in the Department of Speech Communication & Theatre. Through all the late night rehearsals, cast members can fully agree that “A Streetcar Named Desire” is relatable to student life and they also believe that this play has helped manifest their untapped potential while performing on-stage. Bre Hunter, a junior theater major from Kansas City, Mo., portrays Stella Kowalski in the play, and believes that the message of this story is about doing what you have to do to survive. Her message to the audience is to clarify that life will throw obstacles in one’s path, but it is up to the individual to make the right decision. “This show is continuously pushing me toward my true potential. It is definitely expanding my horizons on how I look at my role and this production has changed how I analyze a character before I tap into that character during the production,” said Hunter. The play also showcases the hardships of becoming an adult and delves deep into topics that hit home for many, such as abuse, infidelity, and mental illness. Syderrick Maiten, a sophomore speech communications major from Greenville, Miss., portray
Steve Hubble, a neighbor of Stella and her husband. Maiten describes his character as more of a laid back husband who likes to get under his wife’s skin. “Our marriage is totally different. For example, if I’m getting off work and I know I haven’t been around a woman I would purposefully spray on some women’s perfume and wait for my wife to respond. If she reacts negatively, it turns me on,” said Maiten. With only a year of acting under his belt, Maiten claims that acting is more of a goal than a challenge. “You have to be different. You have to put yourself into that character. My goal is to channel a different personality within myself because I want to move far in this industry, maybe even to the big screen,” Maiten added. “A Streetcar Named Desire” will run Thursday, Sept. 29 to Monday, Oct. 3. On Sept. 29, the show will debut at 7 p.m. On Friday, Sept. 30 there will be a High School matinee at 10 a.m. and a 7 p.m. showing for the general audience and college students. Cost of admission for students and senior citizens is $5 dollars and $10 for the general admission. For more information, call 601979-5956 or 601-979-4309.
Presidential Debate Watch Party
1.
The Blue & White Flash
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
11.
10. 1-11.) The presidential debate watch party featured a student panel and allowed students and guests in the audience to discuss issues and ask questions before viewing the first Presidential debate..
Photos by William H. Kelly III
Tony Hughes gets first win as JSU head coach
To Place Your Statewide Classified Ad Order, Call 601-981-3060. Auctions
Employment-Trucking
ABSOLUTE AUCTION - October 1. Fulton Auto Auction. 405 E. Main St., Fulton, MS 38843. Open to the Public. Sells where is, as is. Pre-register at 662862-7374.
DRIVER TRAINEES NOW Being Trained and Hired for McElroy Truck Lines. NO OTR! GUARANTEED HOME EVERY WEEKEND! •Local CDL Training• Earn $55k - $60k. Call today. 1-888-5407364. OWNER OPERATORS ONLY! 80% Gross on Flatbed Freight! Home Weekends. Permits Provided. File/Pay Fuel Taxes. Owner Operators Lease Today! CDL-A, 25 years, 2 years OTR experience. 870-336-9051
Classes-Training MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Train at home for a career working with Medical Bil ing and Insurance Claims. Online training can get you ready! Call for FREE brochure! HS Diploma / GED and computer / internet needed. 1-877-259-3880.
Computers
GOT KNEE PAIN? BACK PAIN? SHOULDER PAIN? Get a pain-relieving brace at lit le or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients call Health Hotline Now! 1-800971-0493 STOP OVERPAYING FOR YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS! SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25 off your first prescription! Call 1-800-823-2564. Promo Code CDC201625. VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! Cut your drug costs! SAVE $$! 50 pil s for $99. Home Security FREE shipping! 100% guaranteed and PROTECT YOUR HOME with fully cus- discreet. Call 1-800-721-9639. tomizable security and 24/7 monitoring right from your smart-phone. Receive up to $1500 in equipment, free (restrictions apply). Call 1-800-815-5610
COMPUTER PROBLEMS - viruses, lost data, hardware or software issues? Contact Geeks On Site! 24/7 Service. Friendly Repair Experts. Macs and Services-Misc. PCs. Call for FREE diagnosis. 1-800-5830945 DIRECTV. NFL SUNDAY TICKET (FREE!) with Choice All-Included Employment-Sales Package. $60/mo for 24 months. No EARN $500 A DAY: Lincoln Heritage upfront costs or equipment to buy. Ask Life Insurance wants insurance Agents. about next day instal ation! 1- 800-215Leads - No Cold Calls - Commissions 6713 Paid Daily - Agency Training. Life DISH NETWORK - NEW FLEX PACK. Insurance required. Call 1-888-713- Select the Channels You Want. FREE Instal ation. FREE Streaming. $39.99/24 6020 months. ADD Internet for $14.95 a month. CALL 1-800-319-2526 Events
Services-Legal DIVORCE WITH OR WITHOUT CHILDREN, $125. Includes name change and property settlement agreement. SAVE hundreds. Fast and easy. 1-888-7337165, call us tol FREE 24/7. SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We can help! WIN or pay nothing! Start your application today! Call Bil Gordon & Associates. 1-800-706-3616.
Services-Medical
WE TTAAKE FUN SERIOUSLY!Y www.mschildrensmuseum.org
Services-Medical
A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE - no obligation. Call 1-800-514-5471.
PURRRRR-fect..
Advertising Solution!
Statewide Classifieds! 97 newspapers for one low rate! STATEWIDE RATES: Up to 25 words.. . . . . $210 1 col. x 2 inch.. . . . . . $525 1 col. x 3 inch.. . . . . . $785 1 col. x 4 inch.. . . . . $1050 Nationwide Placement Available
Photo: Charles A. Smith Justin Jamison trots into the end zone after running a 71 yard interception return for a touchdown.
Nickolas Davis MC Contributor/Staff The Jackson State University Tigers have finally broken their losing streak with a solid 3220 win over the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Golden Lions. This is the first ever win for Coach Tony Hughes as a head coach in a college program. Quarterback Brent Lyles started for JSU and went on to have 14 of 24 completions for 245 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Tigers got out to a hot start on offense with a 48 yard scamper by true freshman Jordan Johnson on the 5th play from scrimmage. Five minutes later, senior Justin Jemison intercepted Brandon Duncan’s pass for a 71-yard touchdown return. After a successful twopoint conversion that put the score at 15 – 0, the Golden Lions would drive down the field and score to make it a one score game before the end of the first quarter. The Tigers would then score 10 straight points to put the lead to 18 with a 23 yard field goal by junior Christian Jacquemin and an outstanding 49 yard catch and run by junior Romello Shumake. The first half would end with a field goal by UAPB to bring the lead back to 15. Going into the second half, the Tigers had over 150 yards rushing already and seemed to be clicking on all cylinders in all three phases of the game with a comfortable lead.
But UAPB didn’t lay down. The Golden Lions received the ball, went down the field on a 13 play, nearly 8 minute drive that would end in a touchdown pass. UAPB then forced a punt and got another 3 points with a field goal from 46 yards out that hit the left upright on its way in. This change in momentum wasn’t enough to get the Tigers out of rhythm. Lyles rallied the troops and drove down the field finishing with a 15 yard touchdown pass to junior tight end Shaquille Ward. This would extend the lead to 32- 20 which would be the final score as the defense played lights out for the final quarter of the contest. During the fourth quarter shutout, true freshman Khalil Johnson would force a fumble and true freshman Ryan Theyard would pick up and run for 49 yard before being tackled. This looked to be the final blow as the UAPB offense couldn’t get anything going for the rest of the game, even punting the ball on their final possession. Jackson State looks to keep the winning spirit going as they play a bitter rival in Mississippi Valley State University on Oct. 1 at home. This will be the third consecutive year former Jackson State coach, Rick Comegy, will head the Delta Devils versus his former team. The Devils are 0-4 in competition thus far in the 2016 football season.
Saving a Life from a potential catastrophe EVERY 10 MINUTES
but I’m never alone. I have Life Alert.®
AS SEEN ON
TV
®
For a FREE brochure call:
1-800-513-0368 Saving a Life from a potential catastrophe EVERY 10 MINUTES
To order your advertising call:
Mississippi Press Services Sue Hicks, 601-981-3060
Week of September 25, 2016
but I’m never alone. I have Life Alert.®
®
AS SEEN ON
TV
For a FREE brochure call:
1-800-513-0368
48 Web 3.556 x 4
Sports
Page 8 - September 29, 2016
The Blue & White Flash
Minor setback for Jackson JSU Tigers face off State Lady Tigers Volleyball against the Devils of MVSU in rival game Team Armani Fryer MC Contributor/Staff
JSU Athletics Media Jackson State player defends the net during serve at volleyball game.
Jonet’ Washington MC Contributor/Staff The Jackson State University Lady Tigers volleyball team fell this weekend in two loses. They were defeated in both Friday and Saturday’s matches against the Prairie View A&M Lady Panthers on Sept. 23, and Texas Southern’s Lady Tigers on Sept. 24 at Jackson State University’s T.B. Ellis building. In Friday’s game, the Tigers started out leading the Prairie View Lady Panthers with the first match scoring 25-22. They fell short in the next three matches (25-23,25-23,25-19) causing them to lose the game 3-1. The Lady Tigers, recorded a total of 41 kills, 10 of which were made by freshman outside hitter Desiree Mack. Mack also recorded seven digs for the team. Madison Wolf, a freshman biology major from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., and a right side hitter for the Tigers, recorded 8 kills that night. Wolf also accumulated a hitting percentage of .280. Sophomore psychology major from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, Markayisha Masani, led the teams defense with a total of 10 digs, and junior social work major from Evanston, Ill., Arianna Salas set up a total of 34
assists for the team. Despite their loss, Jackson State University students and fans of the Lady Tigers were in full support of the team. Jayah Alexander, a sophomore graphic design major from Greenville, Miss., gave her thoughts on how she felt about the team’s loss. “The girls are still the best team in the SWAC, this is still the beginning of their conference season,” said Alexander. In Saturday’s match against Texas Southern, the Lady Tigers couldn’t bring in the win, losing each match for a final score of 3-0 (25-20, 27-25, 25-21). The Lady Tigers recorded a total of 34 kills (compared to Texas Southern’s 44), and recorded a total hitting percentage of .188. Senior biology/pre-med major from St. Croix, Virgin Islands, Tamisha Barry, and sophomore healthcare administration major from Trussville, Ala., Alexxi Howell, led the team’s total kills, each recording 7 kills. Barry held a hitting percentage of .227 and Howell held a hitting percentage of .556. Barry also, along with sophomore marketing major from Birmingham, Ala., Tyler Moorer, led the team’s defense with 7 digs each. Defensively,
both teams recorded a total of 31 digs. Khalil Morris, a junior criminal justice major from Cartersville, Ga., gave his thoughts on the women’s game on Saturday. “They can do better, they’re the SWAC champs. I definitely wasn’t expecting them to lose today,” said Morris. The two losses this weekend definitely affected the season, especially Friday’s game since it is a part of the women’s conference matches. Other fans were somewhat disappointed in the team’s performance, yet they continued to support their fellow Tigers. “They will be right back to winning games again, this is just a minor setback,” said R’Myni Watson, a sophomore theatre major from Baton Rouge, La. The Lady Tigers initially started this year’s conference season with a good start by defeating the Mississippi Valley State University Lady Devils back on Sept. 16. The Jackson State University Lady Tigers are currently the Volleyball SWAC champions as of 2015. The Lady Tigers next home game against Jacksonville State University will takeplace on Oct. 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the T.B. Ellis Gym.
Coming off of a road win against University of Arkansas Pine Blue, the 1-3 Jackson State University Tigers will face off against he 0-4 Mississippi Valley State University Devils at the Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Miss. on Oct. 1. Jackson State leads the Southwestern Athletic Conference East Division, while Mississippi Valley sits in 4th place. After starting the season 0-3, the Tigers won their 1st game 32-20 against the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Those previous three games, the Tigers struggled. Hughes heads into the match-up against the Devils with the confidence of winning his first game as a Tiger and head coach. For Mississippi Valley Devils will look to pull off their first win of the season against a team that has a long histor y of bad blood. Led by former head coach Rick Comeg y. Valley enters the game defeated by their last four opponents: Prairie View A&M University (21-56), Texas Southern University
(0-31), Alabama A&M (1635), and Eastern Michigan University (14-61). This should be an interested battle for the two struggling schools. JSU’s main problem has been their lack of effort on the defensive end during the 2nd half of games, allowing too many points and displaying poor body language. Their wishes are probably that MVSU continues to struggle to score. JSU allowed a total of 121 points through their 1st four games this season. MVSU has had major problems scoring the ball, which is the exact opposite of JSU’s issues. Only coming to a total of 51 points through their 1st four games, only managing to score at least 20 points in one game, and going scoreless in a game through the 1st four games this season, there’s no secret in what they need to improve. Last season the JSU tigers defeated the MVSU devils 26-16 on MVSU’s home field in Itta Bena, Miss. The game will be broadcasted on ESPNU and JSUT V, also live streaming on 95.5 FM on Oct 1s at Veteran Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Miss. at 6 p.m.
Photo: SWAC.org Jackson State will host Mississippi Valley State for this week’s featured match up on SWAC-TV.
Students learn self-defense and saftey tips during seminar Cornelius Copeland MC Contributor
1.
2.
3.
1) Student audience at the self-defense seminar held at the Recreation Complex. 2) Tips and techniques that were practiced at the seminar. 3) Jeremy Gordon, Instructor of the self-defense seminar Photos by Cornelius Copeland
Jackson State University Recreation Complex and Center for Student Engagement and Leadership hosted a self-defense and staying safe on campus seminar at the on Sept 21, 2016. This seminar was held to promote and encourage safety for students while on and off campus. Students had a chance to learn awareness, prevention, risk reduction, knowledge of student rights and resources, as well as basic self-defense moves and tactics. Lakesha Varnell, Title IX and interpersonal violence prevention director, Damarius Cotton, certified officer of Jackson State University Public Safety, and Jeremy Gordon, a certified crime prevention specialist shared information and safety tips to the students in attendance. Gordon, a master’s level instructor with American Martial Arts, gave students basic skills to help protect themselves. “I have been doing this for years and to share my knowledge with others to keep them safe means a lot to me,” said Gordon. Many students are taking necessary safety precautions to protect themselves at all times. According to the www. neighborhoodscout.com, Jackson has a crime rate of 73 per
1000 residents, and is one of the highest crime rates in America compared to communities of the same size. Its crime index is 2, which means it is safer that 2 percent of the cities in the U.S. Francisco Cervantes, a senior business major from Jackson, Miss., said, “I don’t even go out at night that much anymore because I do not feel safe and if I do, I always have a group of people with me.” Cervantes attended the selfdefense seminar and learned new tactics that he plans to practice so he can be ready when the time comes. According to the World Self Defense Association, one of the biggest advantages to taking self-defense classes is the way it makes you feel afterwards. A lot of people are not confident about their abilities to protect themselves before they join a selfdefense class. Near the end of the seminar, some students were drenched in sweat from practicing and performing the different moves. A lot of punching, kicking, blocking and other techniques were involved teaching the students many ways to remain safe. Jessica Stewart, a sophomore psychology major from Clinton, Miss. said, “I feel like I had a full body workout and have so much more confidence in myself now that I learned all these new techniques.”