FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE
The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi
www.thejsuflash.com
INSIDE
Vol. 79 / No. 14 OPINION
Have Civil Rights been obtained? page 3
NEWS
Wakanda themed AfricanAmerican Read In page 4
February 7, 2019
VA R I E T Y
Are you socially antisocial page 6
S P O RT S
The oracle of Naomi Osaka page 8
Jackson State advocates for funding at Capitol Day event
1.
2.
All Photos by Aron Smith
3.
1.) President William B. Bynum, Jr.,(c) First Lady Deborah Bynum (r) and other JSU alumni and supporters addresses legislators. 2-3) Students, staff and faculty show support at the JSU @ Capitol event.
Cianna Hope Reeves Managing Editor
Students, alumni, faculty and staff assembled at the Mississippi State Capitol on Tuesday, Feb. 5 to encourage state legislators to renew financial assistance to Jackson State University’s programming and operations. Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the state have experienced a loss of subsidy due to the depletion of Ayers Funding, an appropriation settlement that institutions rely on heavily to maintain and operate. According to an informational pamphlet distrubuted at the event, Ayers funding is a settlement which stemmed from a lawsuit compiled by Alcorn State University, Mississippi Valley State University and Jackson State University due to the inequitable funding in comparison to predominately white institutions.
As a result of its passing years ago, new buildings were constructed on campuses and various new programs were implemented for students. However, since the settlement has expired, JSU has requested a redistribution of $6.5 million. Without its renewal, the university is likely to face accreditation concerns, an increase of student tuition and fees, and eventually a decline of student attendance. Janice Knight, alumni giving specialist for the Department of Alumni and Constituency, was pleased by the participation of students, departments, and chapter alumni associations across the state in rally of aid. “Our number one goal was to show up in numbers and demonstrate to the legislature that we are here for our school. We wanted them to witness how important it is that we meet the needs of our students through financial support. I believe we accomplished that,” said Knight.
The university has requested a total fund of $6.5 million for disbursement among three specific areas for JSU; the School of Public Health, Institute of Government, and College of Education. With the School of Public Health receiving the highest bid, their hope is to revitalize the program to provide students with quality equipment and superior education. As the only accredited School of Public Health in Mississippi, funding is a top priority for the department in order to have stable funding along with the continued partnering with UMMC and other Mississippi healthcare entities for current and prospective students. Day’Ja Johnson, a junior communicative disorders major from Meridian, Miss., attended on behalf of her fellow classmates and professed how the need of fiscal support would benefit the division.
“There are a lot of restrictions that occur in the School of Public Health due to scarce cashflow. As students, we experience the issues first-hand because we are constantly in the classrooms working and perfecting our craft with the limited resources we have,” expressed Johnson. She added, “We have clinics that need to be updated with innovative technology and machinery. There is a tenyear gap with the equipment we are currently operating with and if we receive the requested amount, I believe it would alleviate a lot of stress and improve our success as we work to attain a career in our field of study.” Senator Derrick Simmons, democratic minority leader and JSU alum, expressed his support of renewing the settlement and pledges to advocate for his alma mater. “I understand the value of Ayers Funding and the step down is a hard hit. What we need to do as a legislature
YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!
is to fill the holes of this settlement where we can continue to support Jackson State University, as well as other HBCUs,” declared Simmons. President William B. Bynum, Jr. also requested that the legislature approve the fiscal year 2016 level of funding. This would give faculty and staff cost-of-living and/ or merit pay increases, a bond request to improve infrastructure issues, and a property disposal bill which would eradicate the university’s responsibility to maintain properties with little to no value. Knight hopes the rally ignited a decision that would change the trajectory of not only the university, but also student life. “I hope they see the importance of designating the money to Jackson State. I hope they hear our president as he expressed the need and approve the declared funding.”
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Opinion
Page 2 - February 7, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Graphic by KalinImage Norman Google
Always remember that the darker the skin the deeper the roots COMMENTARY
Darrius Barron Sports Editor
Slavery, illiteracy, savagery and loyalty to the race that shackled us is where black history begins. Much like many other African-American men and women, this was the message that was subliminally forced into my head as a child. This is where black history began on Feb. 1, in my publicschool days. There was one public school teacher that taught
me how African-Americans descended from royalty, and how Africa was the dawn of all civilization. Unfortunately, this was my first-grade teacher and once I completed first grade, the black history lessons began with the trans-Atlantic slave trade all over again. Black history was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Rosa Parks. For days past my teenage years, these people were the focal point in every single black history month lesson that was taught in every grade, at every school I attended. I never knew to ask why we learned about the same people every year, I just went with the flow so I could pass whatever quiz was given. To me, Black History Month became more of a chore than a month for celebration of achievements. I did not grasp the full meaning of Black History Month until years after my high school graduation. During a social science course in one of Chicago’s city colleges, Professor Leland Jackson taught 30
students just how deep black history goes. In just 16 weeks, we learned about the royalty from which we came, the hard times that knocked us down, and how no matter the hardship; we stood strong and survived. No matter what part of the country you reside, we all have had those moments on social media that allowed us to reflect upon how far we have come. Whether it being someone talking about having to eat sugar sandwiches for dinner or having a “wish sammich,” because you wish you had meat on it; looking back, we cherish those moments because they are a testament to our progress. Film directors like John Singleton, legendary actors and actresses like Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, superheroes like Lebron James and Serena Williams, shine so bright that they give our youth a star to marvel about. It is important that we do not forget to honor these people during this month. Black history month is not only a celebration for our ancestors, it is an invitation
for you to reflect on your own achievements, and to encourage your friends and loved ones to continue on their journeys. We cannot hide our blackness from the world, in fear of being called ghetto, sassy, or arrogant. Every inch of your black skin is a miracle, and every ounce of your black personality is golden. If you do not believe me, ask the vultures who spend millions of dollars to try and replicate us. “I am my ancestor’s wildest dream,” a simple quote from a sticker on Kalin Norman’s (the Flash photography editor) laptop triggered me to count my blessings. Having the freedom to be who I choose, live where I choose, have the confidence that I have, and study with other young black scholars in peace is a luxury that my grandparents could not afford. I must say, to attend an HBCU like Jackson State is an astounding experience. Celebrating black history month while living on campus at Jackson State is
an experience that I will tell my grandchildren about. While Black History Month is celebrated during the shortest month of the year, that should not stop anyone from being proud and celebrating our progress. It is important to know that black history is far too extensive to be restricted to just 28 days. People like myself celebrate black history anytime the opportunity presents itself. Anytime you wear apparel that represents your HBCU, anytime you take a chance and quote your favorite rapper on a term paper, or anytime you decide to go natural and wear an afro; you are displaying the pride you have for your culture. Black people, you are the embodiment of soul, the birth of cool, and the conquerors of destiny. It is time to leave your mark in black history. What will future generations remember you for? The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
“Do you feel that the goals of the Civil Rights Movement were obtained?” Compiled by Morgan Brunson
Aliyah Atkins Junior Business Admin. Terry, Miss.
Reidlund Chambers Junior Music Tech. Mobile, Ala.
Love McBride Junior Biology/Pre-Denistry Crowder, Miss.
Demonica Wilson Freshman Mass Communication Atlanta, Ga.
Jaylan Hibblers Junior Business Admin. Jackson, Miss.
“In some parts yes, but we still get discriminated against and are looked down upon, so we have a long way to go.”
“I really don’t because it’s a lot of people getting killed out here by police brutality. I just watched a movie on Netflix and someone got killed by a regional office.”
Trevian Strong Sophomore Electrical Engineering Stone Mount, Ga.
“Yes in a way. We do have equal rights. I believe that was the main focus of the moment, so yes because everybody is equal.”
“I though it was achieved, but it doesn’t look too much like it as of recently.”
“There’s a little more racial equality, but a lot of the stereotypes in this country towards different races still remain. Especially in smaller places where there’s not as much diverse culture.”
“I believe to a certain extinct the movement has been achieved. A lot of things have been achieved such as voters rights and women’s rights, but as in overall equality, the minorities are limited in certain aspects.”
Jordan Jefferson Junior Political Science Jackson, Miss.
Rejon Rich Junior Entrepreneurship Chicago, Ill.
Krystyanna Moore Sophomore Business Mgmt. Augusta, Ga.
Branden Willis Sophomore Computer Science Evergreen, Ala.
Jakhyia Johnson Sophomore Business Admin. Chicago Heights, Ill.
“I don’t feel like the representation of black people or other minority groups has been achieved because we still have voter suppression, a president that’s racist, and police brutality. I feel like blacks being able to get through life has been achieved, but I don’t feel like the equal rights has been achieved.”
“Theoretically I feel like it has, but ideally no because of the beliefs of the diehard whites and within the black community, it still has its difference and we’re still clashing.”
“I believe the Civil Rights Movement has not been achieved because we’re still struggling. I feel like their targeting us in a way, not so much physically, but politically and economically. I feel like it’s a long time until we receive civil rights.”
“No it hasn’t. I feel like things are still against the black community. I think we need to step up and do more than to just let things transpire.”
Olivia Carter Junior Business Admin. Portland, Ore.
“Jim Crow laws are definitely abolished so we don’t have to deal with that type of oppression, but there’s still oppression due to the fact that there still is white privilege. Even today with white police officers killing black people.”
“I feel like there’s a lot more things that need to be done to reconstruct this country. I feel like a good start can be reparations for my people.”
Tiger Events
Page 3 - February 7, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu
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The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager CLEMENT GIBSON Editor- in-Chief DEJA DAVIS Managing Editor
CIANNA REEVES Managing Editor
DARRIUS BARRON Sports Editor
KALIN NORMAN Photography Editor
Dierius Abby Wakil Atig Zahriah Balentine Kambui Bomani Morgan Brunson Halle Coleman Anyaah Copeland Nicholas Fisher Joseph Gordon
K’Shatriyah Humphrey Zipporah Jones Christopher Lane Ivory Lowe Tamera McCook Luis Montgomery Sunshine Noel Landrie Tchakoua Darrenlyn Braddy
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 601-979-2082 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.
News
Page 4 - February 7, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Read In focuses on positive depictions of blacks in the arts
Zipporah Jones Staff Writer
Jackson State University held its annual African-American Read In on Monday, Feb. 4. The theme was: “Wakanda Forever: Positive Representations and Depictions of African-Americans in Art, Film, and Literature”. Many students in attendance felt the “Black Panther” themed read-in was an excellent way to kick off Black History Month with the featured discussions on blackness and visibility within media. The panel for the first section of the discussion included, RaShell Smith-Spears, C. Leigh McInnis, and Joshua Cotton, instructors and professors at JSU. These staff members discussed the connection that the media has on the perception of blackness. McInnis highlighted the need for black people to create their own content. He also discussed how black people should not look to other races for the approval of their content. “What is our strategy going to be to create our own institution, our own sovereignty?” McInnis asked. The panelists provided information and stressed the importance of black comic
books, movies, and science fiction novels. They all agreed that having these things were vital to black society. Smith-Spears explained how important pieces like “Black Panther” are to the black community. “Speculative fiction gives us our world, just through a different lens,” Smith-Spears said. Cotton brought these ideas home when discussing the history of black stories, referencing the folktale of “Anansi.” “Representation matters because representation is how we see ourselves,” said Cotton. Current and former students were given the floor for the second part of the program. Ariel Wade, an English undergraduate student, began the conversation by discussing the portrayal of blacks in art. Arrison Martin, another English undergraduate student, continued this conversation by breaking down the character of Killmonger from “Black Panther.” He also provided examples as to why Killmonger was such an important and appropriate character for this era in America’s history. Jordan Jackson closed the discussion by pointing out that even though blacks have been featured in media and comics
Photo by Zipporah Jones
Kwame Braxton displays his artwork that was featured during the African-American Read In.
throughout history, they have often been stereotyped. The final section of the readin featured work from students in the art department. Kwame Braxton, Nicholas Armstrong, Brandi Knott, and Jarrick Jackson were the featured student artists. The work, ranging from graphic art to paintings, depicted black characters of all shapes in forms. Students expressed how they enjoyed what they learned from attending the event.
Karissa Patrick, a junior English education major from Jackson, Miss., explained what she liked about the first panel discussion. “All three panelists framed the movie of “Black Panther” in a different light that allowed me to consider more themes than what I learned by just watching the movie on my own. The panel was informative and enjoyable,” Patrick said. Others felt that the conversations brought important
attention to those who were minorities. Tyler Hurley, a sophomore English major from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., discussed why he felt the panel was so important. “I learned that representation matters, especially for those who are marginalized. I also learned that in order for black people to move forward we have to not only address racism, but also issues like sexism and homophobia within our community,” Hurley stated.
Students and community service partners meet at bi-annual CIA Fair
Photo by Gabrielle Jones
Zipporah Jones and Kayla Sms MC301 Contributors/Staff
Jackson State University held its annual Community in Action Fair on Jan. 31 in the Student Center Ballrooms. JSU Community Service Coordinator Kimberly Harris has hosted the fair for six years. “The fair is held once a semester and we’ve been doing it since I’ve been here,” she said. “Every semester we have agencies throughout Jackson to come and give students information on how to receive community service and service learning that can be put on a resume,” said Harris.
Harris said a diverse range of community service partners are invited to the fair each year. “Each year we try to get 50 agencies and this is on a first come, first serve basis,” she said. Students attended the program to gain valuable information about the community service efforts that were available on and off campus. The CIA fair offered many JSU students the opportunity to get involved with their community through different programs, some on campus and some off campus. Students had a wide range of community partners to choose from, including the Jackson Zoo, W.E.B. Dubois Honors College, Children’s Musuem, The Boys
and Girls Club of Mississippi, Our Time Adult Day Care Services, Wesley Foundation and many more. Places like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mississippi, an organization that offers various programs from youths aged 5 to 18 years old, offers many community service opportunities to those who want to work with kids in the community. Natasha Gilbert, a case a manager for the Boys and Girls Club, describes what she enjoys most about serving children in the community. “I enjoy working with and being hands on with the children the most. I also enjoy being a guide even outside of our program to these children in the community.
We really can be there for them (children),” said Gilbert. Tanya Gibbons, also from Boys and Girls Club said kids love working with students. “I believe they can relate more, because most of the kids have older siblings and the college kids act as another sibling. I really enjoy watching the kids interact with each other, especially the young men. We need more college boys mentoring, because it sets a good example for the kids who have no example,” said Gibbons. Shannon Williams from Our Time Adult Day Care Services, said she enjoy watching students engage with people at the daycare. “Most of the people at our facility are lonely and respond better when students come,” said Williams, who explained that the students volunteering were the best part of her job. Other organizations that attended the fair focused specifically on service through counseling and guidance. Tamar Counseling Group, a group that caters to children who have experienced trauma, is one of these organizations. Kelly Graham, an intern at the Tamar Counseling Group, described what their organization does. “It is general counseling for kids who have undergone any traumatic or sexual abuse as well as a parent’s divorce,” said Graham. Graham also described why
she enjoyed working with Tamar Counseling. “For me, it was just a way of meeting a different variety of people,” said Graham. Students who attended the fair talked about how events like this benefit them. Tianna Hamilton, a freshman history major from Baton Rouge, La., said she really liked the idea of the fair. “I have to have 120 hours of community service and I plan on getting all of them this semester. Whoever came up with this idea really made it easy. It’s sad that more people don’t take advantage of this opportunity,” said Hamilton. Some students, like Terrence Phillips, believe the skills the students learn at the sites are skills that can accommodate be used in their future careers. “This is an amazing opportunity for students that are about to graduate,” said Phillips, a senior elementary education major from Canton, Miss. “I graduate this spring and even though I do not need any more community service hours, I find this helpful.” Harris says this is the most promising year yet. “My goal for this year was accomplished. We had students sign up for several different vendors and most of them were excited about it. That’s a first for me, seeing students so engaged,” said Harris.
Influenza vaccine is a simple and safe way to protect yourself K’Shatriyah Humphrey
Staff Writer
The winter is here, and it comes with boots, scarfs, jackets and at times, influenza—also known as, the flu. The hard breathing, pain in chest/ abdomen and dizziness could mean something much more than the common cold. The Center for Disease Control recommends everyone to get a flu shot in order to protect themselves. This is a vaccine to help one’s immune system fight the most severe strains of the flu going around this time of year. In December of 2018, The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reported its first laboratory-confirmed case of influence for the 2018-2019 flu season. Just last month, over 500 students from a local high school were absent due to a flu outbreak. According to Dr. Samuel Jones, primary health provider at Jackson State University’s Health Center, his office has seen relatively few cases so far and
most cases have been mild. Dr. Jones recommends that everyone to stay away from crowded places and wash their hands frequently. “Any Person who feels they have the usual symptoms of the flu can reduce the chance of spreading it to others by staying away from crowded places, coughing or sneezing into their sleeves instead of their hands and washing their hands more frequently,” said Jones. Jones continued saying everyone should take precaution if they know someone with the flu. “Since it is caused by an airborne virus, there is no way for well persons to prevent inhaling flu particles which can be left suspended into the air for a while. But once can reduce his or her chance of getting it by avoiding close contact with persons who are known to be having the symptoms and washing tie hands frequently, in case they have touched an object that has the flu virus on its surface,” Jones added. He further explained, “One can suspect that he/ she has the flu if they are having body
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aches, feeling very tired and have no appetite to eat anything. Of course, these symptoms would occur alone, with usual “cold” symptoms. If one only has a cold, there are no body aches, tiredness or appetite loss. The only sure way to know, is to have one’s nose swabbed for a flu test.” Some students said they are afraid to get the flu shot because they feel the flu shot will make them get the flu, but this is inaccurate. According to Web MD, there
are reports of people putting slices of red or white onions on the soles of their feet and then putting on socks to try to cure flu, cold, cough, or fever. The only certain way to know if you have the flu or not is to get a flu shot every year—service you can receive annually on campus. “The best way to reduce one’s chance of getting the flu is to get the flu shot every year. We offer this year’s flu shot in the Student Health Center for $25 that is billed to the student’s account,”
said Jones. If you do get the flu, The Health Line offers some tips on what you can do for a speedy recovery: *Stay home *Hydrate *Sleep as much as possible *Eat healthy foods The moral of the story, get the flu shot. Flu activity peaks between December and February, so now is your chance to fight the flu and stay healthy.
The Blue & White Flash
Variety
Page 5 - February 7, 2019
Students discuss antisocial social media behavior MC301 Contributors
Has dinnertime been overcome by digital devices? Do we share more information online than we do face to face? Is social media making us more anti-social? With all the convenience provided by the Internet and social media, does it come at the cost of interpersonal experience? According to pewinternet. org, the number of Americans that own a cellphone of some kind is 95 percent with 77 percent of those users owning smart phones. This makes obtaining and sharing information instantaneous but is this helpful or hurtful to the overall social health of society? Have you ever observed someone on his or her cellphone and/or mobile device become distracted from real life? How many times have you seen someone walking and looking down at his or her phones at the same time? According to dmv.org, texting and driving has now become even more common, and just as dangerous as texting while driving. Statistics show that 26 percent of all car crashes in 2014 involved cell phone use. At least nine people are killed every day due to distracted drivers. Mobile devices are powerful tools, and while part of the issue, the actual content displayed on the phone plays a factor in our social activity. As with all things in life, social media has pros and cons. The question is, has it affected the way we communicate with one another? “The ability to access the Internet through mobile phones to check social media websites has turned places like coffee shop and cafes into non-social areas. People are also using social media to feel connected to others without being around them or knowing them
Photo staged by Clement Gibson
personally,” stated Briana Knox, senior biology major from Vicksburg, Miss. Knox added, “People no longer need to be able to communicate properly because the Internet is doing it for them. The ability to access the Internet through mobile phones to check social media sites has turned places like coffee shops into nonsocial areas.” Carmen Frison, a junior business management major from Atlanta, Ga. agrees. “This generation is more prone to being less social in the physical state because we’ve always had technology to help us communicate in a way that doing it in person would be impossible to do,” said Frison. Frison added, “While being social online, we have
forgotten how to be social in real life. I do believe social media makes people less social. We have become so custom to talking to someone behind a screen that when we do it in person it’s awkward.” Jakarri Donley, a senior in elementary education from Greenwood, Miss., being social or antisocial is a matter of choics. “If you already a social person, you are going to be social on and off social media,” said Donley. Bobbie Brown, a senior psychology major from Cleveland, Miss., believes that social media gives shy individuals a platform to reach out to other individuals and discuss ideas they are not open to discussing in person. “The confidence one gains online may give them
the confidence to interact in person with others,” said Brown. Bonnie Jackson, a professor at Jackson State University, believes constant social media interaction can be detrimental. “It (social media) gives you the ability to hide who you are. You can go online and impersonate someone else” said Jackson. “We are losing our ability to sympathize with people and we have become more judgmental. It is making us a much meaner society.” Regardless of one’s personal view, it is fair to say that social media has caused a change in the way we communicate. Like anything in life, it has both advantages and disadvantages. Social media for many members of society connects them with friends,
family and professional connections. From spreading news to sharing memories social media has had an effect on almost everyone in some form. Though the way we communicate with one another has changed, whether or not that change is detrimental is objective. Social media remains a tool to communicate with others whom we may not see every day, or stay up to date on the latest news or trends. Whether it is used for entertainment or a bridge to social connectivity, the impact of social media is present and not likely to go away any time soon. This story was written by MC301 students: Tamera McCook, Treasure Thigpen, DaLesia Sanders and Demetris Valentine.
Chris Brown sues rape accuser for making false accusation Halle Coleman
Staff Writer
R&B singer Chris Brown is no stranger to controversy but he usually makes headlines for breaking records with his hit music. This time, however, Brown landed in the spotlight for possibly breaking the law when he was accused of rape in Paris . Brown has vehemently denied the accusations and has taken it a step further by filing a false accusation complaint on Jan. 24, in Paris, France against his accuser. On Jan. 22, news broke that Brown was detained and still being held in custody. Brown’s bodyguard and another member of his entourage were also detained. His alleged victim’s name was never released, but in her complaint she claimed she and her friends met Brown at a nightclub and then went to Mandarin Oriental hotel in Paris where she was allegedly raped. She also said that she was later raped by Brown’s bodyguard and a friend of the singer as well. Brown took to Instagram to defend himself stating, “I wanna make it perfectly clear … This is false and a whole lot of crap... For my daughter and my family, this is so disrespectful and is against my character and morals!” Later that evening, Brown was released without charges, but the investigation continues. He let the world know of his homecoming by posting screenshots of tweets by both Complex and Variety that encompassed articles explaining his release. According the The New York Times, the false accusation complaint was submitted by Raphael Chiche, Brown’s lawyer.
Chiche is asking the Paris Public Prosecutor’s office to investigate the claim as a criminal matter. A false accusation charge carries a penalty of five years in prison and a fine of around $50 thousand dollars. Regardless of the outcome, Brown’s fans have rallied behind him to show their support. Jsh’lyssa Cain, a senior chemistry major from Byram, Miss., is backing Brown’s decision to file. She stated, “I think he should press charges. Sue her! I think he should sue her because that could have ruined his life, his whole career, and everything he worked so hard for. All over a lie.” On the other hand, Shakerria Houston, a sophomore psychology major from Jackson, Miss., considered the fact that just because Brown was released with no charges doe not mean he is completely innocent. “I don’t agree with the false accusation complaint because if you rape somebody and she’s given facts to why or how you raped her and that he did rape her, she shouldn’t be found guilty of that,” said Houston. Since the allegation, Brown has actually dropped a line of “This B*itch Lyin” t-shirts in both black and white and priced at $38 each. The shirts are exclusively available on his Black Pyramid Clothing website. The back of the t-shirts displays a design showing a blonde-haired woman crying, which could be interpreted as a dig at the unnamed accuser. Chris Brown has also released a French edition of the t-shirt which features a picture of the Mona Lisa, a French flag, the Eiffel Tower and the words, ‘That B*tch Lyin’.
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The Blue & White Flash
CIA Fair & MADDRAMA Skating
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Photos 1-2 Kalin Norman; Photo 3 Gabrielle Jones; Photos 4-7 Kalin Norman
1-3) Students met with Community Service providers at the bi-annual CIA Fair. 4-7) MADDRAMA members participated in Skate Night at Funtine skating rink in Clinton, Miss.during MADDRAMA Week.
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Sports
Page 8 - February 7, 2019
The Blue & White Flash
Belichik and Brady are Super Bowl winners... again Tamera McCook
Sports Writer
For the sixth time in the era of Tom Brady and coach Bill Belichick, the New England Patriots are Super Bowl Champions. This year was a little different because the Patriots’ defense was subpar early in the season. They battled with injuries and various lineup changes to accommodate for the injured starters. Nevertheless, their defense came in as the underdogs and proved they had the hearts of champions as they held the Rams to just three points for the contest. The Los Angeles Rams earned their spot in Superbowl 53 although some argue the controversial call that referees missed in their victory over the New Orleans Saints. The Rams, who recently moved from St. Louis, Mo. to Los Angeles, Calif. had an excellent season— winning 13 of 16 games. They were predicted as the slight favorites over the New England Patriots. As reported by The New York Post, New Jersey sportsbooks lost more than 4.5 million dollars on a 34-million-dollar wager. This was the effect of such a low scoring game. The Super Bowl is normally
one of the most watched events in history, but this year was different. Not only was the game low scoring, but the NFL saw a drop in the number of viewers as well. For the first time since 2009 the audience for the Super Bowl dropped to 100 million viewers, down 3 percent from last year. Super Bowl 53 had a slow start with interceptions and costly mistakes by both teams. The first and only touchdown was scored in the fourth quarter, resulting in the final score being 13-3. Defense led the way for both teams. Yes, offense is exciting to watch, and it also wins games, but this Super Bowl proved the theory that defense actually does win championships. Both teams played exceptionally well on defense, which interrupted the opposing team’s offense. However, in the end, the Patriots proved why they were the better team. Wide receiver Julian Edelman won MVP and finished with 10 receptions for 141-yards on the night. Tight end Rob Gronkowski also caught six passes for 87-yards, including one down the stretch that brought New England to the goal line. Brady finished with 262-yards and connected on 21 of his 35 passes.
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For Los Angeles, Goff led all in yards with 229 through the air. Regular season MVP candidate Todd Gurley only rushed for 35-yards, but still led his team in that category. Even with the scandals and rumors of cheating throughout
the years, Brady and Belichick could go down as arguably the most successful player-coach duo to grace the sport. Brady, a quarterback who could possibly go down in history as the greatest of all time, has proven to be ageless.
Although Super Bowl 53 was one the least watched championship games in the history of the NFL, it proved to many fans why Tom Brady and Bill Belichick deserves all the praise and accolades they have received over the years.
NBA season has come down to Harden and Antetokounmpo
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Darrius Barron
Sports Editor
The NBA season is nearing all-star weekend and that means the halfway marker for the season has been reached. Now is the time when fans begin to grasp an idea of who will win the Podoloff trophy for this season’s most valuable player will be. Maurice Podoloff, a lawyer who served as president of the
National Basketball League (NBL) and was the driving force to merge the NBL and National Basketball Association (NBA), became the first NBA commissioner. According to HoopHall.com, the trophy awarded to players is named after the late Podoloff. In the history of the NBA, players who received the Podoloff trophy were remembered throughout history. Even players who win the
award once are usually selected for Hall of Fame consideration. The MVP award was first earned by St. Louis Hawks’ power forward/center, Bob Pettit in 1956. Since Pettit set the standard of what level a player must perform to be named MVP, several players accepted the challenge, and set the bar higher. Over the 62 years of awarding the Podoloff trophy, fans have seen some of the greatest players
of all time be awarded. Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Lebron James have all won the award at least four times. Since 2005, the Podoloff trophy has primarily been awarded to guards with the exception of Shaquille O’Neal and Dirk Nowitzki— the last two bigs to win the award. It has been a two-man race for this year’s MVP—Milwaukee Bucks’ forward, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Houston Rockets’ shooting guard, James Harden. Both have been playing at an unbelievable level, making the decision a hard one for fans. Harden, an offensive juggernaut who’s averaging 36.2 points and 8.1 assists a game has led the Rockets to a 29-22 record heading into the all-star weekend. The Greek Freak, Antetokounmpo has been proving to doubters that he cannot be stopped. The Bucks’ forward is averaging 26.4 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, all while leading his team to 37-13 record so close to all-star weekend. Confidence is key in being successful, and Harden being the reigning league MVP still believes he’ll hoist the trophy again. When asked by reporters at the Houston Chronicle about his desire to be named MVP for the second consecutive year, Harden said, “I need it. I need it for sure,
and I’m going to get it.” Justin Jordan, a sophomore political science major from Seattle, Wash., thinks Harden will win MVP, but not a championship. “I’m going to give it to James Harden even though I do not think he will win the championship this year. I think he will win the MVP this year because he is the most valuable player for his team. Without him, his team wouldn’t be anything, and they would be at the bottom of the west,” said Jordan. Derrick Johnson, a senior history major from Jackson, Miss., is looking forward to seeing Curry or Leonard win the award. Johnson stated, “There’s two candidates that I’m looking forward to that might have a chance in winning the NBA MVP award. Stephen Curry can be number one because they have a super team, and they have the best dynasty in basketball right now. I also think Kawhi Leonard for the Raptors have a chance at winning MVP. My overall pick would be Curry because they have the better team.” Unfortunately, the league MVP is not chosen until after the NBA Finals are over in June. Since this is a regular season award, only the performance over the regular 82 game season will be considered when determining the winner.
The oracle of Naomi Osaka continues to dominate tennis Kambui Bomani
Sports Writer
The world of women tennis has been dominated by the success of the Williams sisters throughout the 21st Century. Naomi Osaka is emerging as the next dominant professional tennis player. Whether it was the early career dominance of Venus Williams, or the recent powerful surge during the prime career of her younger sister Serena, the Williams’ sisters have left their mark on the annals of Women’s International Tennis and are destined for Hall of Fame status. However, the most humbling aspect about an era filled with legends is that their supreme run cannot last forever. Soon, a new wave of worldwide stars come to the forefront to shape their own careers and destiny. In two of the last five months, a Haitian-Japanese tennis prodigy has put her mark on the recent tennis world as the next great star that the game has been graced to see.
The Australian Open Final showcased the continuous rise of Japan’s Naomi Osaka who continues to shine bright during the golden age of Serena William’s tennis playing career. Coming off of her first Grand Slam victory against the former number one ranked Serena Williams at the U.S. Open, Osaka matched her feat with a second consecutive Grand Slam title in five months. She finished with a 7-6 (2) 5-7, 6-4 victory against Czech Republic’s Petra Kvitova in the Australian Open Final according to the New York Times. The result gave Osaka two straight Grand Slam titles as a 21 year old and the upcoming opportunity to be the first internationally top ranked tennis player in Japan history. It has been a staunch rise towards stardom for Naomi who just last year at the Australian Open was ranked No.72 in the world. As of Jan. 26, Osaka was able to receive the illustrious Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup in the on-court trophy
presentation at Melbourne, Australia, from none other than retired-Chinese star, Li Na. Na was the last highestranked tennis player from the continent of Asia to grace the top of world tennis rankings. She did so by winning the 2014 Australian Open, and climbing as high as number two behind Serena Williams. The historic accolades that are following Osaka have been ever billowing since her highly televised upstaging of Serena Williams at the U.S. Open. To be able to replicate Grand Slam success during the same tennis year is viewed as huge; not just for her budding career, but to the state of the sport according to some of her competitors. “Definitely she is a great one,” The New York Times reported the twenty-eight year old Petra Kvitova saying about Osaka after their match. She continued, “We’ll see what the future will bring. But for sure she has probably everything that has to be there to play her best tennis.”
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Yet, as historic as her march has been for her home country and the magnitude of a young tennis player individually, the camera-shy Osaka has made shrinking from the spotlight normality and grace in victory and defeat a humbling one for her opponent. When asked during an American interview of the
possibility of being the face of the 2020 Olympics for Tokyo, Japan, her humblest response was, “Hopefully for their sake they don’t do that.” Yet, if her Grand Slam hardware continues its gradual incline in the next calendar year, her biggest fear of being the face of a nation could become a reality.