VARIETY
Final movie in Batman trilogy rises to the occasion
Page 7
Vol. 73 / No. 2
September 6, 2012
www.thejsuflash.com
iPads advance technology in classrooms on campus Nekeisha Walker and Tiffany Edmondson Staff Writers
Photo: Donald Hewitt JSU freshmen receive training after getting their new iPads.
Approximately 900 incoming Jackson State University freshmen have received a new Apple iPad, thanks to the iPad Technology Advantage Scholarship Initiative at JSU. With the help of the Mississippi e-Center Foundation, the TASI program was able to award each student an ipad with only a $50 insurance fee for two years. The package includes student apps, a bluetooth keyboard and a protective cover. After a student has completed five semesters at JSU, they will be granted ownership of the iPad. Jackson State is the first institution in Mississippi and one of the first in the nation to comprehensively integrate the iPad into the curriculum. The program, funded by the
Mississippi e-Center Foundation, is estimated to cost between $600,000 and $700,000. This week, several University Success classes lined up in the Student Center Ballrooms A& B to receive their iPad and attend miniature workshops about the iPad usage policies. Dr. William McHenry, Executive Director of the e-Center said, “Equipping the students with iPads is JSU’s attempt to help students improve their adaptive learning skills and to also help them save money on buying books.” McHenry stated that as time passes, ebooks will be available for the majority of the courses and professors will be encouraged to incorporate the iPads into the class curriculum. Students like freshmen biology pre-nursing major Lenthra iPads Cont. on pg.5
For announcements and event information, go to the Student Life homepage @ www.jsusms.edu/studentlife
JSU weathered the storm: Hurricane Isaac forces campus closure Diamond Jenkins Managing Editor The first week of the fall 2012 semester at Jackson State University found students and others watching the weather. What started out as a tropical depression turned into Category One Hurricane Isaac that made landfall on the Gulf Coast on Tuesday Aug. 28, producing severe thunderstorms, high winds, tornadoes, and causing power outages to approximately 500,000 homes in Mississippi. For those who remembered the severity of Hurricane Katrina that struck Mississippi seven years ago on the same date, much attention was given to safety and preparation. Jackson State officials took lessons
INSIDE
Photo: Terry Haley, Jr. Flooding on campus during Hurricane Isaac.
learned from Katrina and applied them to their emergency management plans, which included constant monitoring of the storm, frequent updates to the campus community and precautionary alerts.
The threat of the storm coupled with flash flooding and partial power outages on the Jackson State campus caused the closure of classes and non-essential offices from Wednesday, Aug. 29 until after the Labor Day
JSU Events & Weather .......................................................... 2 Opinion .................................................................................... 3 News ......................................................................................... 4 Variety ...................................................................................... 5
Holiday on Sept. 4. The major impact felt at Jackson State was the loss of power in several residence centers and the campus dining hall. Because Dixon and Stewart Halls and Heritage Dining are on an older system, newer power lines will have to replace old ones. According to Housing Director Vera Jackson, everyone was prepared to carry out their emergency plan based on weather conditions. Although housing officials were prepared to move students to the Walter Payton Center and T.B. Ellis Gymnasium, that was not necessary because facility and power crews were able to isolate the problem areas. Students and other were kept informed through a variety of ways, including the university website and emergency messaging system.
Tameka Allen , a political science freshman from Kankakee, Ill., said: “During the week of the storm, I was in the transition dorms. The power went out for a few hours, but I feel that the students were given instructions to stay in our rooms until we were able to receive updates on the weather,” said Allen, “I was getting updates through Twitter on what safety precautions I had to take.” Tenesha Hughes a junior mass communications major from Columbus, Miss., said: “I think that the University took the proper safety precautions. Nobody on campus was hurt and everyone had instant notification as to what happened.” Dr. Marcus Chanay, vice Isaac Cont. on pg.5
Sports ........................................................................................ 11
• OPINION- The Decorum Policy does not limit SWAG! • SPORTS- Tigers set to take on TSU in Classic
The Blue & White Flash Page 2 - September 6, 2012
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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Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.
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The Blue & White Flash SYLVIA T. WATLEY Adviser ERNEST F. CAMEL III Production Coordinator
SHANNON D. TATUM Production Assistant
Patricia Ainsworth Alexis Anderson Anna Baynham Davisia Braddy Candace Chambers Maurica Daria Tamikia Dunomes Tiffany Edmondson Terry Haley, Jr. Donald Hewitt Tenesha Hughes Mark A. Jefferson Diamond Jenkens Ivory C. Jones Aviyam Jordan Shameka Kelley
De’Arbreya Lee Ashley T. Malone Dominique McCraney Victoria McGee Andrew Nomura Kachelle Pratcher Corinthian Sanders Jeremy J. Sandford Crystal Shelwood Davon Tiwett Lestine Thomas Mary E. Thompson Nekeisha Walker Derrick Walton Alan Wells Dashawna Wright
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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.
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JSU Campus Briefs TEMPORARY POWER OUTAGES AT JSU Contractors are currently working on Heritage Dining, Stewart Hall and Dixon Hall. The following service interruptions will occur: Heritage Dining will be closed on Saturday, Sept. 8. Power is scheduled to be restored no later than 10 a.m. Sept. 8. Stewart Hall will have no power from 2-6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8. Dixon Hall will have no power from 10 a.m. to noon. Saturday, Sept. 8. JSUNAA BLACK TIE SCHOLARSHIP GALA The Jackson State University Alumni Association will sponsor the Black Tie Scholarship Gala on Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. at the Jackson Convention Center located on 105 E. Pascagoula Street. Featured guests include: BET’s Ed Gordon, Marcus D. Wiley of the Yolanda Adams Morning Show, Henry Rhodes and the Mo’ Money Band and JSU’s MADDRAMA Performance Troupe. For more information call 601-979-6944 or visit www.jsunaa.com/blacktie-gala.com. PITCH PERFECT FREE MOVIE SCREENING FREE Pitch Perfect Movie Screening...Thursday September 13th @ 7pm at Tinsel Town Movie Theater See Amber T. Brown for free tickets! Come out and enjoy the show! For tickets and more information contact Amber Brown at 618960-4465. “MONEY IN THE BANK” PRESENTATION Money in the Bank, a presentation on ways for families to save money on home utilities will be held in the Student Center, 3rd Floor –Room 3213 on Saturday, Sept. 8th from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. During this presentation, participants will develop strategies for saving money in their homes. Please remember to bring your workbook with you! Lunch will be provided and door prizes will be given. This event is sponsored by Bancorp South, the West Jackson Community Development Corporation and Entergy. For more information please contact the Department of Human Capital Development: Washington Addition Prenatal and Early Childhood Education Project at 601979-0663.
MIRRORS OF CLAY ART EXHIBIT Jackson State University has partnered with the Mississippi Museum of Art to present the exhibit, Mirrors of Clay: Reflections of Ancient Andean Life in Ceramics from the Sam Olden Collection, from Aug. 30 – Nov. 15. The exhibit will be displayed in the Dollye M.E. Robinson Liberal Arts Gallery, located on the university’s main campus, 1400 John R. Lynch St. in Jackson. The opening reception will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 6. For more information call 601-979-0879. U.S. POET LAUREATE TO READ AT JSU Pulitzer Prize-winner and current Mississippi and U.S. Poet Laureate, Natasha Trethewey, will read her poetry at Jackson State University at 3 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 20, in room 166/266 of the Dollye M.E. Robinson College of Liberal Arts Building. Hosted by the Margaret Walker Center at JSU, this event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact the Margaret Walker Center at 601-979-3935 or mwa@jsums.edu. HBCU Photographic Preservation Project Jackson State University, is one of ten HBCUs selected to participate in a year-long photographic Preservation Project, and was recently awarded a grant for $50,959. Sponsored by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, the project is administered by Lyrasis. The goal of the project is to support preservation efforts for notable photographic collections in HBCU libraries. With the grant, the preservation needs of several major and historical photographic collections housed in the H.T. Sampson Library’s University Archives will be addressed through treating the collections, training staff, and monitoring environmental conditions. Additionally, a major provision of the grant will fund internships for two students, Crystal Shelwood, a history major from Jackson, Miss. and Keenan Brown, a history major from Bentonia, Miss.
Sunny
Sunny
People Speak
Opinion
The Blue & White Flash Page 3 - September 6, 2012
The Flash wants to know what you have to say . . . . . “How do you feel about the Student Decorum Policy?”
Compiled by Tamikia Dunomes, Davon Tillett and Tyiesha Johnson
Correll Dear Freshman Early Childhood Education Jackson, Miss.
“Abiding by a certain dress code is like high school to me. JSU is a college and students should be able to express themselves and their swag.”
Xavier Brown Freshman Marketing Laurel, Miss.
“I am against it; I feel like people should be able to say and do what they want to do. But for respect, pants should never sag, and hats should be taken off in class.”
Lakeria Smith Freshman Biology/Pre-Nursing Jackson, Miss.
“I believe the policy should be enforced more. I do not like seeing underpants due to sagging. Also, violating the dress code gives bad names for the females that show everything.”
Photo: Alan Wells
Brittney Colbert Junior Elementary Education Jackson, Miss.
Charlecia Brown Junior Computer Engineering Greenwood, Miss.
“I feel like if you wouldn’t “We are all of age. Dress conwear it to church or a work servatively, respect yourself.” setting, why would you wear it to school?”
Dominique Jones Sophomore Biology/Pre-Nursing Jackson, Miss.
The Decorum Policy does not limit SWAG COMMENTARY
“The school should not enforce the decorum policy because as students, we are all adults. As adults, we should not be disrespectful or dress inappropriately. ”
Tyiesha Johnson Staff Writer `Quartilya Mosley Freshman Undecided Shuqualack, Miss.
Raquel Araujo Sophomore Art London Ontario, Canada
“I feel that since we are at a mature age in our lives, students should dress appropriately. If we choose not to, the policy should be enforced.”
“Club clothes should not be worn walking down the plaza. Choose how you dress and make it appropriate.”
Job Lang Sophomore Biology/Pre-Optometry Mobile, Ala.
Dal’lis Davis Sophomore Undecided New Orleans, La.
“Students should be able to smoke freely on campus but littering is wrong! You wouldn’t throw a chip bag, cigarette butt, or juice bottle in your own yard! Why do it on campus?”
“Professors treat us like children when they tell us that we cannot enter the classroom if females’ shorts are too short or if they see guys sag. We should be able to express ourselves too!”
Martel Williams Freshman Engineering Lake Charles, La. “We as students should keep our campus clean by the clothes we wear and the language we use. Throw away your own trash.”
Coby Jones Freshman Computer Engineering Macon, Miss. “I feel like Jackson State is my home, which means I should be allowed to show off my swag.”
I never imagined being able to experience attending an Historically Black College until I chose Jackson State. While I was touring Jackson State, I noticed the beauty of the campus but along with beauty, there were several distractions. There was trash thrown among the walkways, profanity being used loudly on the plaza, and the most visible distraction was seeing students inappropriately dressed. I often see people walking into class with their music playing loudly, men sagging, and females dressing for more of a club scene rather than achieving an education at a higher learning institution. Professors and administrators should not have to ask students to dress or behave a certain way in the classroom nor on campus; it should be expected and we should always present ourselves as adults. Should the students at Jackson State be able to dress and behave themselves however they want to or should the University enforce the Student Decorum Policy that students should abide by? According to the Jackson State
Student Decorum Policy, “Dress standards promote learning by establishing expectations that will reduce educational distractions as well as help prepare students for later success. These restrictions are minimum requirements that will result in a warning or disciplinary action if not followed. The University expects and strongly encourages its students to adhere to the higher standards of appropriate dress on campus and at University events as recommended in the Student Handbook.” Because Jackson State is an institution for higher learning, I believe that students should conduct themselves properly and abide by the policy to promote the University’s mission for the benefits of all its students. Some students at Jackson State spoke strongly against the Student Decorum Policy. Correll Dear, a freshman early childhood education major from Jackson, Miss. said, “Jackson State is a college and students should be able to express themselves and their swag according to their lifestyle and likings.” Other students supported the Student Decorum Policy. Charlecia Brown, a junior computer engineering major form Greenwood, Miss. said, “We are all of age. Dress conservatively; respect yourself.” “Club clothes should not be worn walking down the plaza. Choose how you dress; make it appropriate,” said Raquel Araujo, a sophomore art major from London Ontario, Canada. I decided to research the facts about other HBCUs to see what actions they were taking to enforce a
dress policy. Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga. enacted the “Appropriate Attire Policy.” The policy states, “The college forbids the wearing of do-rags, caps, and hoods in the classroom and other indoor venues. Sagging pants and clothes with offensive messages are also prohibited.” This code is not enforced to punish the students nor forbid them to dress comfortably. It is similar to the Jackson State Student Decorum Policy, which states: “Lewd or obscene dress shall include attire or the lack thereof that leaves visible an area of the body that traditionally within the locality has been considered private and indecent to expose publicly, and that also lacks artistic or creative value within a particular University curriculum. Traditional private areas shall mean the breasts, buttocks, or areas proximate to the reproductive organs.” So you see, asking the gentlemen to pull up their pants, and remove their caps in class, shouldn’t be a problem; neither should expecting students to be cautious of their language, dress modestly, and to clean up after themselves. So let’s remind ourselves that as students of Jackson State, we want to represent our school by respecting the campus, ourselves, and others around us. The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
The Blue & White Flash Page 4 - September 6, 2012
News
SGA President Brian Wilks urges students to stay connected Brian Wiks JSU SGA President Welcome to Jackson State University. I am honored to hold the baton that will lead this 2012-2013 Student Government Association administration to greater heights. We are at your service. The 2012-2013 SGA administration is committed to ensuring that your time at Jackson State is full of enlightenment, involvement, and enjoyment. We will work tirelessly to make certain that your University has always as its chief concern the well-being of its scholars. Government is to govern. Govern means to lead. Leading means to serve and to protect. The SGA is dedicated to not only serving the needs of our student body but also, protecting their academic environment. This is our duty and I challenge you to hold us accountable to fulfill it. This year we are operating under the motto “For the People.” This is because we desire for every decision we make to keep you in mind. We are only as good as the condition of the people we serve. This is our University and as elected leaders we
have been handed the responsibility of preserving its long legacy of challenging minds and changing lives. Join this year’s SGA administration in its efforts to continue to press forward toward the mark of greatness. This is not achievable without the support of our peers. We need you. After all, everything we do is “For the People.” I’d like to share some of the goals we have set for this academic year, and tell you how we plan to get things done. I encourage you to get involved and make a positive difference at your university. We plan to: • Increase Student Involvement • To implement the “ Choose 1” campaign to encourage every student on campus to get involved in ONE student organization • We will work with the Division of Undergraduate Studies to garner more freshmen and sophomore involvement • We will visit University Success classes to promote the SGA and encourage students to get involved. • We will encourage students to get active in their state clubs via the Pre-Alumni Council • To focus on more innovative
and broad publicity of all SGA sponsored events • We will aggressively utilize social media. (Facebook, Twitter, Student Life and University Website) • We will recruit students to act as At Large members of the SGA. They will be the Street Team. • We will implement the SGA Book Stipend Sweepstake as an incentive to get involved in campus life. • Increase Student Moral • To work to increase support of JSU athletes beyond football and basketball • We will organize to increase SGA presence at athletic events. (Volleyball, Soccer, Baseball, Tennis, Bowling, Golf, Track) • We will utilize the Street Team and social media to help expand interest in athletic events. • To work to create a campus atmosphere that also caters to our commuter student community • We will join the University on its established efforts to create a more commuter friendly environment. • Increase Social Awareness. • To sponsor inventive programming and methods to promote the “Rock the Vote” voter registration
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campaign • We will encourage state clubs to educate members on their respective state procedures of absentee voting and voter registration transfer. • We will utilize incentives, the Street Team and social media to promote the importance of voting. • To implement a second, yet
seamless, component of the “Choose 1” campaign that encourages students to get involved in a community service project • We will utilize incentives, the Street Team and social media to promote the importance of fulfilling the University-required 120 community service hours.
Freshmen explain how they are coping with being away from home Kachelle Pratcher Staff Writer The thrill of going away to college for the first time can raise different emotions from students and parents. Excited, anxious, scary, and overwhelming are words that can describe the feelings of first year college students when arriving to campus on that move-in day. “I’m really excited and was so ready to get away, it is a wake-up call and a reality check, I finally get to do things on my own,” said Kailen Townsend, a freshman business administration major from Chicago, Ill. Some students are happy to be away from home and can finally be on their own while others dread leaving their parents and having to share a room. “I have mixed feelings when it comes to being at college, I love that I’m starting a new chapter in my life, but it does get scary at times,” said freshman mass communications major Chandelle Reed from Dallas, Texas. The first couple of weeks can be hard to adjust to with so many new faces and things going on around you. Staying fit and maintaining wellness can be beneficial to relieving stress and staying healthy.
Rachel Cowan, director of the Walter Payton Center said freshmen were introduced to the concept of wellness and recreation during the first week of the semester at the R.O.M.P. at the Rec. “This event is our way of introducing freshman students to the facilities, our services and programs and helping them to consider their health, wellness and physical fitness,” said Cowan. She added that working out helps to reduce stress and helps individuals take their mind off whatever is causing them stress. “Exercising helps you cope with whatever is happening.” Adjusting to the new scenery, keeping up with the many events and registration schedules can be hectic and overwhelming. Making that transition from high school to college isn’t easy but attending ‘Welcome Week’ activities and meet and greet dorm blisters can make the transition a little smoother. “Jackson State made me feel comfortable these first few weeks, I love this school. Occasionally I miss home, but being away is okay for now,” said Barbara Wilson, a freshman biology major from Southfield, Mich. While this will be an exciting time in your lives, experiencing homesickness is common and it is normal to feel loneliness and anxi-
ety from classes. But remember there is always someone to talk to such as community assistants who are older students that live the floor
ability services. Frances White, a therapist at the center, in a series of tips provided to freshman students stated that students should not overextend themselves and jeopardize their grades by participation in too many activities and an extra heavy work load. Other tips given by the LNC to ease the transition to college include: • As you move forward in your new surroundings, it’s normal to miss family and friends! It might be a good idea to put up pictures of them in your room. Call or write to them about the new people, activities and friendships you have made and get to know your roommates and classmates. • You may need one or more of your classmates to become a study friend. Find out about tutorial services. JSU has student mentors who can answer some of your questions and help you adjust to college life. Build new support systems. • Plan your time well and in advance: Make a schedule for yourself. Be sure to include activities such as sports events, concerts, meetings, etc., in addition to study time Graphic: Trerica Roberson and other extracurricular activities. Make sure that you designate of residence halls. enough time to take care of your Those experiencing extreme academic work, including projects. stress can also visit the Latasha Nor- Balance your coursework and extraman Center for Counseling and Dis- curricular activities!
News
The Blue & White Flash Page 5 - September 6, 2012
MADDRAMA honors black cinema with “Fade to Black” Kachelle Pratcher Staff Writer Jackson State University’s MADDRAMA Performance Troupe showcased “Fade to Black,” a tribute to African-American cinematic entertainment. This new member interest show was held Sept. 4, at 7:30 p.m. in the F.D. Music Hall with a large audience turnout. The informational showcase opened up with a welcome address from director and founder of MADDRAMA, Mark G. Henderson. MADDRAMA was founded on the campus of Jackson State University in 1998 and is the official drama club within the Department of Speech Communication and Theatre. “I love MADDRAMA, we are a family and we might have our differences but when it matters we are there for each other and we always get the job done,” said Tilman Norton, a senior biology pre-physical therapy major from Grenada, Miss.
iPads
Cont. from pg.1 Laster from Morton, Miss. said, “The new iPad will help me to purchase books at a cheaper price through ebooks.” Besides offsetting the cost of the purchasing books, Brent Newell, a freshmen Sallies, Miss. native said that utilizing the iPad apps will help him in his prospective assignments. “I’ll be able to keep up with all the different technological advancements and I will become more familiar with apps that can help improve my ideas as a civil engineer,” said Newell. Freshman class president, Michael Gordon from Atlanta, Ga., said, “Teachers can look up websites to use in the classroom and in subject tutorials by showing videos and powerpoints about specific chapters. They can also use the iPads to record lectures and place them on iTunes.”
Isaac
Cont. from pg.1 president for Student Life, said in a video posted to the JSU website: “We have measures in place to accommodate and provide for the welfare of our students in case of bad weather. We want to reassure parents and others that we are in
The troupe strives to promote excellence in the performing arts with an emphasis on people of color. Throughout the night the troupe had everyone excited with the many different movie scenes they bought to the stage. The various scenes included laughs and cries from the audience, and caught the attention of everyone with its overall content. “I really loved this showcase, every movie that you watched in the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s was acted out by MADDRAMA,” said Demonta Rule, a junior mass communications major from Atlanta, Ga. “Fade to Black” was split into three sections. Part One of the show included scenes from “Love Jones”, “The Nutty Professor”, “Lean on Me”, “The Great Debaters” and “Malcolm X”. “I hope by watching the showcase, students learned the importance of African-American entertainment and understand that being young, gifted and black is something that is to be cherished Although the iPads have many great positive aspects, some students have concerns about the iPad initiative process and the internet access within the dorms. Other freshmen are unhappy about the fact that they had to buy textbooks before they were notified if their professors were using ebooks or iBooks. While these are minor concerns, McHenry stated that these kinks will be worked out over time. “The TASI program has placed air watch on the iPads so that student can take surveys and my evaluation team along with Robert Lane can use the feedback to better the use of the iPads.” With the help of the students and the university feedback, the TASI program is aiming to improve and update the iPad’s, its distribution and internet capabilities. This program will be ongoing for future freshman and in four years every student will be equipped with an iPad. constant contact with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency National Weather Service. We have a designated person on campus to provide constant updates and weather alerts.” Contractors continue to work on Heritage Dining, Stewart Hall and Dixon Hall, and work is scheduled to be completed by Saturday, Sept. 8.
and shared with the world,” said She’Keia Ewings, a junior chemistry major from Clarksdale, Miss. Part Two of the show had various music medley scenes including dance and song selections from “School Daze”, “B.A.P.S.”, “The Wiz”, “Sister Act II” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It”. Part Two also showcased scenes from “Coming to America”, “Eve’s Bayou”, “Waiting to Exhale”, “Dead Presidents”, “Dreamgirls” and “The Color Purple”. In the reenactment of the 1988 “Coming to America” scene, MADDRAMA members reenacted the scene where the barbers were trying to talk Prince Akeem out of getting a jheri curl. “I played Clarence the barber in this scene. I have been in MADPhoto: Dominique McCraney DRAMA for three years now and this is like a second family to me, Members of the cast performing a scene from “Waiting to Exhale.” there’s no way I could ever truly express my gratitude,” Mark Jef- Martin that featured special guests tures everyone with anything they ferson, a junior mathematics ma- CAMP S.T.A.R.S. It was a real sen- do, I really enjoyed myself,” said jor from Byram, Miss. timental moment for the cast and Laneisha Daniels, a sophomore The conclusion of the show- audience. English major from Chicago, Ill. case was a tribute to Trayvon “MADDRAMA always cap- “I went from laughing to crying.”
Freshmen Class Election Results President Michael P. Gordon
Assist. Secretary Brandi-Tyler J. Wells
Miss Freshman Robin Y. Jackson
Vice President Keith D. Smith
Senators Kentonio Johnson Erin S. Miller
Mr. Freshman Alexander L. Burton
Secretary Jessica Stubbs
The Blue & White Flash Page 6- September 6, 2012
Variety
Final movie in Batman trilogy rises to the occasion Candace Chambers Staff Writer
The Batman movie trilogy ended as “The Dark Knight Rises” made its world premiere on July 16, 2012. This highly anticipated movie of the summer has been a blockbuster hit. Over the Labor Day weekend, the movie crossed the $1 billion box office mark, surpassing its predecessor, the “Dark Knight,” earning 12th place on the all-time box office grossing list. The movie explains the journey of Bruce Wayne’s revitalization into Batman. He launches his mission of fighting evil in the film “Batman Begins,” after a threat to destroy his hometown of Gotham City. In “Dark Knight,” Wayne reunites with his allies to continue the fight against crime. In the midst of protecting the city from the evils of the Joker, the district attorney, Harvey Dent, commits crimes in order to save Gotham. Wayne takes the blame for Dent’s wrongs, which causes the city to shun his presence. He is convinced that the city is now safe with Commissioner Gordon leading the police force, therefore retiring his duties as Batman. Eight years after the events of “Dark Knight,” Bruce Wayne struggles to make the decision to continue his retirement from the Batman or to defeat the enemy, Bane, who is destroying the city of Gotham. With the help his allies, Batman decides to enter a new world of crises and must endure the setbacks in order to save the city! Christian Bale returns as Batman from his role in the beginning of the trilogy “Batman Begins,” and “The Dark Knight.” Bane is played by Tom Hardy, star of the film, “Inception.” Christopher Nolan directed the film, along with the previous Batman trilogy films. A few of his works include, “Inception,” Insomnia,” and “Memento.”
Photo: Google Images
Batman and Bane Other main characters include Anne Hathaway (Selina), Morgan Freeman (Fox). Gary Oldeman (Commissioner Gordon), Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Blake), and Michael Caine (Alfred). Many Jackson State University students said they liked this Batman movie because of the enthralling plot. Karen Knox, a sophomore, English education major said, “I really enjoyed it. The actors portrayed their characters well. The plot was built well, with a few surprising twists.” David Brewer, a sophomore, physics/pre-med major said, “It was fantastic, better than I expected. It was so good. I’m ready for the next one.” According to IMDb.com, the film earned $160,887,295 its opening weekend and reached
$1.010 billion the Labor Day Weekend. The film’s opening was overshadowed by tragedy on July 20, 2012 when at a midnight premiere in Aurora, Colo., James Holmes shot and killed 12 people and injured 58 inside the movie theater. Both Bale and Nolan released statements on behalf of the cast expressing their condolences for the families of the victims. I enjoyed the film, especially the costumes and background music. The story line was easy to follow and the characters were well defined. Even though I had not seen any of the other Batman films, I was still able to understand the plot! Overall, I would rate it a 4 out of 5 stars. This movie is a great ending to the entertaining trilogy and will be a joy for all to watch!
JOIN THE FLASH and eXperience STAFF “ATTEND A MEETING!!!!” Flash meetings Monday @ 10:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. eXperience meetings Thursday @ 3:00 p.m. In Room 211 Blackburn Language Arts Building
Courtesy of billboard.com
1. 2Chainz ft. Drake - No Lie 2. Wale - Bag of Money 3. Miguel - Adorn 4. Usher ft. Rick Ross - Lemme See 5. Meek Mil ft. Drake - Amen
The Flash wants to know what you’re listening to... Lacey Wicks Freshman Computer Science Jackson, Miss. 1. Lazy Love - Ne-Yo 2. Party and Bullish - Rita Ora 3. Enough of No Love - Keyshia Cole 4. Birthday Song - 2 Chainz ft. Kayne West 5. Thinking About You - Frank Ocean “I really like ‘Thinking About You’ because it’s slow and relaxing. The song embodies what you think about someone.”
Variety
The Blue & White Flash Page 7 - September 6, 2012
Rapper Snoop Dogg to release new ablum as ‘Snoop Lion’ Derrick Walton Staff Writer Yes, it’s true! Famous Rapper Snoop Dogg has changed his name to Snoop Lion and transitioned his genre from hip-hop to reggae. According to the Washington Post, a trip to Jamaica gave Snoop Dogg a different view on life and he was born again. “I want to bury Snoop Dogg, and become Snoop Lion,” the 20-year-rap veteran said in the Washington Post article. “I didn’t know that until I went to the temple, where the High Priest asked me what my name was, and I said, ‘Snoop Dogg.’ And he looked me in my eyes and said, ‘No more. You are the light; you are the lion.’ From that moment on, it’s like I had started to understand why I was there.” Snoop Dogg, who was known to rap about things such as murder and misogyny, now wants to sing music that people like his family can enjoy. Hip-Hop isn’t based on peace and harmony when comparing it to reggae music and Snoop Dogg wants to change the image of his music career.
“I think Snoop Dogg, by being so far in the game, will probably have to set his space and do something different,” said Darnell Cannon, a freshman business administration major from Marietta, Ga. Martel Williams, a freshman engineering major from Lake Charles, La. said, “He’s making a big change and trying to do something with himself.” According to Foxnews.com, Snoop stated, “As a 40-year-old man ... I’ve got to give them something,” he said. “That’s what you do when you’re wise.” Some music fans do not believe the change will be beneficial for the rapper. “I don’t think he will be successful changing genres of music,” said Arianna Cargin, a freshman biology major from Jackson, Miss. Snoop however makes it clear in an Allhiphop.com report that he is not fully retiring from Hip-Hop, but felt a need to express his personal growth through the music. Music fans will have to wait to see if this transition pays off for the veteran rapper when he releases his first reggae album, entitled “Reincarnated” this fall.
Photo: Alain Williams for http://martlet.ca
Depiction of Snoop Dogg as ‘Snoop Lion,’ the name he will use for his upcoming reggae album.
The Blue & White Flash Page 9 - September 6, 2012
Attention Computer Engineering & Computer Science Students
Please join us as we present
“Step Into Saks” Thursday, September 13 4:00pm-6:00pm School of Engineering (Room #104) Pizza served following presentation in Faculty & Student Lounge
What/Where is the Saks Service Center? Learn about Saks IT Department Discuss IT job opportunities available after college Meet/Network with Saks Associates Find out about Internship opportunities Start YOUR success story today!
The Blue & White Flash Page 10 - September 6, 2012
Sports
The Blue & White Flash
Page 11 - September 6, 2012
Tigers set to take on TSU in Southern Heritage Classic Donald Hewitt Staff Writer
After starting the year off with a loss to instate foe, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University looks to rebound at the 23rd Annual Southern Heritage Classic against Tennessee State University. TSU is coming in after a nail biting win against Florida A&M University. One thing that may be on JSU’s side is that TSU was penalized 20 times for a total yardage of 178 yards in their last game. While JSU looks for Quarterback Dedric McDonald to attack the stingy defense of TSU, on the other side of the ball, JSU’s defense looks to prove to the critics along with TSU’s offense that they are one of the top defenses in the SWAC. The Southern Heritage Classic, presented by FedEx, is a contest that has drawn over 1 million fans since the first game in 1990. According to southernheritageclassic.com, the success of the Southern Heritage Classic, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2009, has resulted from countless hours, days, months and years of behind the scenes effort to make it a first-class entertainment event, not just a football game between traditional rivals Jackson State and Tennessee State.
JSU and TSU have met 20 times on the gridiron with TSU leading the match-up with 11 wins. The TSU Tigers had a seven year winstreak against JSU from 2003-2009 but JSU has bragging rights for the last two match-ups and hopes to continue the streak. Tennessee State Tigers definitely have plans to spoil those dreams with stand out Nick Thrasher, a sophomore linebacker who in last week’s game finished with 10 tackles, 9 solo tackles and 2 tackles for losses. On the offensive side of the ball for TSU is key player Michael German, starting QB, who threw for 263 yards with a touchdown and interception in a winning effort against FAMU. On the other side you have JSU’s quarterback McDonald, who threw for 136 yards with a touchdown and also two interceptions against MSU. Something to watch on the defensive side for JSU is the play of the corners and safeties against the pass friendly offense of TSU. My prediction is that JSU will win 14-10 in a low scoring game. The outcome depends on QB play and the team who wants it more. The JSU Tigers are hungry to continue their success against rival TSU. Kickoff will begin Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis, Tenn.
File Photo
MSU Bulldogs crush JSU in opener Lady Tiger Volleyball falls to ULM Warhawks
Photo: Google Images
Donald Hewitt Staff Writer The Mississippi State University Bulldogs defeated the Jackson State University Tigers in a crushing 56-9 victory. JSU look confused the entire game at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Miss. From the first snap to the last, the Bulldogs looked like a powerhouse team against in state foe Jackson State. The Bulldogs, a team from the toughest conference in college football, the Southeastern Conference (SEC), showed why they are a team that could turn heads in their division with the play of pocket quarterback (QB) Tyler Russell, who can run the
ball effectively. Russell went 15 of 23 for 175 yards and 2 TD’s along with a strong running performance from a mix of the bulldogs running backs. On the defensive side Mississippi State’s ball hawking secondary was able to grab two interceptions. One was thrown to Darius Slay who ran it back 55 yards for a touchdown. Matthew Wells picked the second one and also ran the pass back for a 22 yard touchdown. Mississippi State defensive lineman Nick James also forced a fumble which was recovered by Chris Hughes. With all of this, there was a bright spot in the play of the Tiger’s offensive line, which only gave up 2 sacks against a superb defense known for using blitz schemes to hurry the QB. Jackson states offense also ended the game with a total of 265 yards with 16 first downs. Dedric McDonald threw for 136 yards and a touchdown. JSU’s star player was E.J. Drewery who had 4 receptions and hauled in the Tigers only touchdown. On the defensive side of the ball standout Transfer safety Cameron Loeffler had one of the hardest hitting hits on the goal line. The Bulldogs tight-end Marcus Green ended the game with a total of 7 tackles. The leading tackler for the Tigers was safety Milton Patterson with a total of ten tackles but The Tigers were unable to sack the quarterback in this game but had a total of 3 tackles for loss with 1 assisted by Johnathan Billups and Javarius Conner. Although this game was a home game for the Bulldogs, Tiger fans were in full effect in a sold out stadium cheering on their team. Jackson State is now preparing for the Southern Heritage Classic where they will compete against Tennessee State University in Memphis Tenn.
Photo: Terry Haley, Jr.
JSU player goes for a spike during game versus ULM. Donald Hewitt Staff Writer In front of a packed crowd the Jackson State University Women’s Volleyball Team lost its home opener Tuesday night at the T.B. Ellis Gymnasium, falling 3-1 to the University of Louisiana Monroe Warhawks. In the first period the Lady Tigers played with intesity and energy early on, but the Warhawks prevailed with crucial serves and diving efforts that helped them to win the first period. Intensity grew at the beginning of the second period as the Tigers took a commanding 17-19 lead but later ULM came from behind
and won the second period 25-23. Going into the next set the Lady Tigers came out with a strong 10-4 lead in the do or die period winning that set 25- 23 as the crowd cheered for a comeback and anticipated every serve. Things became interesting for most of the period as the War hawks called a timeout to settle their players who were rattled by the crowd and with the game on the line at 24-21 JSU couldn’t pull off the comeback. With the loss JSU falls to a 0-4 record and ULM improves to a 3-2 record. The Lady Tigers will return to action September 7-8 to participate in the Central Arkansas Sugar Bear Classic Tournament in Conway, Ark.