Students

INSIDE JSU Events & Weather ........................................................... 2Opinion .................................................................................... 3 News.......................................................................................... 4Sports ........................................................................................6

• OPINION- This is a black university, right?• VARIETY- Slimm Pusha Q & A

how the use of technology in the classroom prepares our students for the 21st century workforce,” said Robert Blaine, special assistant to the provost for Cyberlearning.

William McHenry, Executive Director of the MS eCenter, has worked on the iPad Initiative since its inception at JSU.

He stated that the Innovation Center is another way in which Jackson State is trying

to encourage faculty members to take advantage of the new mobile learning devices as well as develop courses and textbooks that can utilize mobile learning strategies. McHenry believes that the Innovation Center is the fruit

Jackson State University will celebrate the opening of Innovate, a one-stop-shop for faculty and staff to create and disseminate digital content, on Feb. 6 at 1 p.m. on the fi rst fl oor of the H.T. Sampson Library.

Th e event will be held in conjunction with the 2nd Annual Democratization of Cyberlearning Summit and feature a number of presentations.

JSU has emerged as a national leader in this transformative learning method. Th e university is in the second year of its iPad Initiative, providing the device to all incoming freshman. Faculty members are also authoring digital textbooks for their classes. JSU also continues to receive recognition for its eff orts. Apple, Inc. designated JSU an Apple Distinguished School, joining a select group of institutions across the country.

“Th is is an opportunity to share with the rest of the world

Care Act, Cont. on pg.6

Cyberlearning, Cont. on pg.6JSU fi nds technology at their fi ngertips.

of all the lessons learned during the course of implementing the iPad project.

“Th e Cyberlearning Summit will allow Jackson State to share with other universities and colleges activities we have been engaged in for years. Jackson State is the largest public university to have a one-to-one initiative where all students are provided access to the same technology,” said McHenry.

“Aft er doing research we determined that iPads were the most c o m m o n l y useful for apps in academics or e d u c a t i o n .

In the course of two years, the e-Center has provided all incoming fi rst time freshman full-time student with iPads.”

Innovate will serve as the new

Taylor BemberyAssociate Editor

Variety Page 5

Top ten things that holdblack people back

“This is an opportunity to share with the rest of the world how the use of technology in the classroom prepares our

students for the 21st century workforce.”

- Dr. Robert Blaine

February 6, 2014Vol. 74 / No. 17 www.thejsufl ash.com

Alexis AndersonStaff Writer

For many young and healthy college students, the thought of obtaining health insurance is the furthest thing from their minds. However, the implementation of new requirements for health insurance coverage under the mandated Affordable Care Act (ACA), have many facing the real life responsibility of figuring out how they can obtain and maintain coverage.

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the ACA. The act puts in place comprehensive health insurance reforms that will roll out over four years and beyond. The law promises to extend coverage to millions of young adults. All Americans must obtain health insurance by Feb. 15 for coverage to begin on March 1.

The JSU Student Health Center can provide information about student health insurance coverage

and requirements under the Affordable Care Act. Students can visit: http://www.jsuinsurance.com/ or call the JSU Health Center at 601-979-2260 for more information.

Most students like Theron Wilkerson, a senior history major from Carthage, Miss., have not begun to ponder the thought of buying insurance.

“I have no insurance, nor do I know much about

Students unaware of facts surrounding Affordable Care Act

Photo: File Photo

Photo: Google

Cyberlearning Summit innovates and creates

Check out � e Blue & White Flash online at www.thejsu� ash.com. Follow us on Twitter @thejsu� ash and Instagram @the_jsu� ash

Page 2 - February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

JSU’s 5-Day Weather ForecastTHURSDAY

Editorial StaffThe Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classifi cation, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Offi cial Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.

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.

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 fi nal 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 Offi ce of Student Publications.

Awards & Honors

Publication/Distribution Information

The Blue & White FlashJackson State University

P.O. Box 18449Jackson, Mississippi 39217

Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876E-Mail: thefl ash@jsums.edu

Subscription InformationSubscription 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 Offi cial 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.

Letters To The EditorLetters 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.

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The Blue & White Flash

Tiger Events

University students and seeks to familiarize them with various professions and career fi elds through face-to-face interaction with representatives of the private and public sector job markets. All majors are welcomed. Come network with employers who can help you jump start your career! This event will be held in the Student Center 3rd fl oor Ball Room. For information, contact Career Services at 601-979-2477.

CAREER SERVICES AND STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

CENTER, FEB. 11 JSU Career Services and

Student Employment Center will join forces with our recruiting partners on Feb. 11, 2014 to prepare students for life after college. Students will participate in sessions that cover choosing a major, resume writing, networking, interviewing, social media, fi nancial planning, professionalism in the workplace, and applying to graduate school. This event will be held on the fi rst fl oor of Jacob L. Reddix Hall from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. For information, contact at 601-979-2477.

ARMED FORCES NIGHT

Jackson State University Division of Athletics will be hosting “Armed Forces - Operation Defending Tiger Court” Monday night, Feb. 10, 2014.

Join Athletics, the Veterans Center, the Mississippi Army National Guard and JSU ROTC as they recognize and honor military personnel and veterans at the JSU vs Southern University Basketball game.

The women’s game begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by the men’s game. Athletics is partnering with the Mississippi Army National Guard and the Veterans Center to honor Active and Retired Military Personnel along with Junior ROTC. All military personnel with proper identifi cation and/or uniform can enter the game for a $3.00 entrance fee. Basketball fans are encouraged to support our troops by wearing red, white and blue.

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SYLVIA T. WATLEY Adviser

SHANNON D. TATUMPublications Manager

Alexis AndersonSharmonica CarterCandace ChambersTamikia DunomesTenesha HughesOctavis Lawson

Crystal KillingsworthGuy King

Brandi McKinneyKachelle Pratcher

Aja SwayneDerrick Walton

Alan WellsPerrymon WrightAnetra YearwoodPresiana Dawson

TAYLOR BEMBERYAssociate Editor

MARK BRABOYNews Editor

DOMINIQUE MCCRANEYGraduate Assistant

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Flash Staff Needed

The Blue & White Flash is currently

accepting applications for

Staff Writers and Photographers.

Meetings are held Mondays at 3 p.m.

and Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. For more info. call

(601) 979- 2167.

CORRECTION: In the Jan. 30th edition of the Flash, the “Jackson State Lady Tigers fall to Grambling State 79-69”

story was written by Bridget Robinson, not

Octavis Lawson.

THINK PINK - GO BLUE

Jackson State University Division of Athletics will be hosting “Think Pink - Go Blue” on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014 at 3:00pm. Athletics will be partnering with the American Cancer Society on this event to raise awareness and honor survivors in the Jackson Metro Area. We are asking all patrons of the game to support this fi ght against cancer by wearing either a pink or light blue shirt for this game. If you are a cancer survivor and would like to participate in the cancer survivor ceremony, please email your information (name, survivor since date) to Mr. Reginald L. Johnson at reginald.l.johnson@jsums.edu by 5:00 pm on Friday, Feb. 7, 2014.

SPRING CAREER FAIR, FEB. 12

JSU will host a spring career fair on Feb 12, 2014 from 9a.m.-1 p.m. This event is designed for all Jackson State

and blue.

JSU Campus Briefs

People SpeakOpinion

Compiled by Tamikia Dunomes and Crystal Killingsworth

“Do you feel the celebration of Black History Month at HBCUs make students of other races feel uncomfortable?”

Lufat Rahman SophomoreComputer Engineering Bangladesh“No, last year I participat-ed in the play ‘Black Na-tivity’ where I was given the opportunity to play various roles.”

Angela CondorelliSeniorManagement MarketingSantiago, Chile’“No, I’m from another country and although we didn’t have any racial controversies, I don’t feel any less comfortable.”

February is the month designated to celebrate and observe the accomplishments of black people who have made signifi cant contributions to society, past and present.

In 1877 the fi rst class at Jackson State University, then known as Natchez Seminary, consisted of only 20 students. Those 20 students were freed black slaves. Now with a record enrollment of over 9,000, the student body is becoming more diverse. People from all around the world are coming together as one at JSU.

Even though JSU is becoming more diverse, sometimes I wonder if students of other races get uncomfortable when we have programs and discussions about black history or the Civil Rights Movement.

In my classes, there are usually one or two people of a different race. In one particular class, my professor talks about civil rights almost every other day. She likes to enlighten students on the struggles that black people endured in slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. There is a white male and an Asian female in that class.

The fi rst day back at school for Black History Month, an African-American Read In took place. I asked the Asian girl in my class: “Does this make you feel uncomfortable?” I was expecting a made up response but she actually told me it was a bit “too much” for her. It made her feel uncomfortable.

I think the conversation of black history is always relevant because black history is happening every day, especially at HBCU’s. However some professors and students must take in consideration that the discussion may make other students feel uneasy. Other races may feel guilt, discomfort, or even out of place.

I feel all races can identify with Black History. Anyone that is of a different race will not only learn academics at JSU but they will learn of the rich culture of black people. Our university is in Mississippi,

Page 3 - February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

and many of the events that change the landscape of civil rights took place here, from the wicked past of slavery to the powerful activism of the Freedom Riders, James Meredith and Medgar Evers. All races should know and learn about the perseverance and courage of those people, no matter what race they are.

Choosing to come to an HBCU as another race is an extension of Black History. There was a time when a white student would not only never have considered attending a black university, they would have been ostracized and faced physical harm, just as the black students attempting to attend predominantly white universities did during the era of Jim Crow and separate but equal. So those students of other races attending HBCU are now a part of Black History. Our ancestors fought hard to live in what we call a color-blind society. The diverse community at JSU exemplifi es that we are moving forward to living “The Dream”.

Charmeise JacksonSeniorEnglishWaukegan, Ill.“No, I would hope not considering they chose to come to an HBCU, where they knew any historically black moment in history would be celebrated.”

Jose OuqueSeniorFinance & MarketingEcuador“It doesn’t make me uncomfortable at all.”

Kashyap AshokFreshmanComputer ScienceIndia“I don’t think it’s offensive to me because we are doing something related to everyone and the non-black people come to the school and before they come, they know that the school is black.”

Angela GreeneJuniorSocial WorkAtlanta, Ga.“I don’t think it does especially with the young group of students here. They are very open-minded and they would want to hear everything.”

This is a black university, r ight?

Taylor BemberyAssociate Editor

Camilo VatinoSophomore Industrial TechnologyColumbia, South America“It doesn’t make me feel uncomfortable because even in my country we have a bond to celebrate. We have black people in our country so it’s really alright with me.”

Hernen GeriaSophomoreManagementArgentina“It doesn’t make me feel uncomfortable because it’s nice to visit the school and it’s good to celebrate what they feel and it’s their race.”

Terrence KeyesSophomoreComputer ScienceRaleigh, Miss.“I feel that to a certain extent that some would.”

Ibrahim FinleyFreshmanChemistryAtlanta, Ga.“No, I think that other races would probably be more curious rather than uncomfortable.”

The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Meron AsnakeSophomoreCivil EngineeringEthiopia“I don’t feel that it does, but I do believe that activities and celebrations during the holiday should be more inclusive to all other races.”

Taylor EmersonJuniorSociologyDallas, Texas“Maybe, considering some races would be scared of having an opinion especially when they are on the negative side of history.”

Cartoon: Alan Wells

COMMENTARY

NewsDebra L. Lee, Esq. is an

American businesswoman who has served as the President and CEO of BET, the parent company for Black Entertainment Television since 2005. From August 1981 through September 1981, Lee served as a law clerk to the late Honorable Barrington Parker of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Lee joined BET as Vice President of legal affairs and general counsel in 1986. She has also served as BET’s corporate secretary, president and publisher of BET’s publishing division, which publishes Emerge, BET Weekend and Heart & Soul magazines.

do without. “Th ey’re not just spending

money on clothes and gadgets alone, but spending money on entertainment. You can’t aff ord to go to the movies, club, and restaurants every night, sometimes you have to take advantage of free resources on campus,” said Knesha Th omas, a senior accounting major from Anguilla, Miss.

According to scholarships.com, where and how you choose to spend your money is your personal decision. Th e keys to developing strong money management skills are to understand your spending, live within your means and to be sure that you have suffi cient resources in the event of an emergency.

Jordan Barber, a junior computer engineering major from Baltimore, Md., believes many students spend refund money recklessly in an attempt to fi t in.

“Most students want to keep up with the appearance of others.

It’s almost as if they are making the wants of others into their own, just to be accepted,” said Barber.

Dominique Marshall, a junior atmospheric science and meteorology major from Jackson, Tenn., encourages her peers to ask for help when in doubt about managing their money.

“I think students should create a budget to better manage their money during refund season. Seeing that the business offi ce gives us plenty of time to think about it, you can always ask an advisor for help with learning how to save,” said Marshall.

In a U.S. News report, “How to Manage Student Loans or Avoid Th em Altogether,” fi nancial experts give these tips to college students:

• Get a head start, no matter how small: Save money now! Every dollar you save is a dollar you won’t have to borrow. For many students, a student loan is the fi rst debt they will owe, and it’s hard for them to visualize what

that will mean when the borrowing phase is over and the repayment phase has begun.

• Prioritize your expenses – College expenses tend to fall into two major categories: education and experiences. Expenses that are tied directly to a college education include things like tuition, required fees, and books. Experience costs are the extras: living on campus, studying abroad, and being a member of a sorority or fraternity, for instance.

• Choose an aff ordable school: Whether this means choosing the school with the lowest ticket price or the school with the most scholarship money.

• Cover as many smaller expenses as possible: Consider footing the bill for books, supplies, honor societies, and various fees.

College students should always keep in mind that the real world is awaiting once they cross the stage and the money they borrowed to fund their education will be due.

Too often, African-Americans are only associated with achieving athletic fame or merely possessing hip-hop musical talent. But three African-American CEO’s: Donald Thompson, Kenneth I. Chenault, and Ursula Burnes, are defying the stereotypes by making contributions in the lives of many. The companies of McDonald’s, American Express, and Xerox are being led by these individuals and the successes are continuing to grow under their leadership. Th ese African-American CEO’s are moving forward in the business and the customer service arena. Th ey are to be commended and appreciated.

Ursula Burns, chairman and chief executive officer of Xerox, is leading the “world’s leading enterprise for business process and document management,” according to Xerox.com. Burns joined Xerox as a mechanical engineering summer intern in 1981. With many prior successes, she became chairman of the company in 2010. Xerox serves clients in more than 160 countries. Burns states, “As I’ve progressed in my career, I’ve come to appreciate -- and really value -- the other attributes that define a company’s success beyond the P&L: great leadership, long-term financial strength, ethical business practices, evolving business strategies, sound governance, powerful brands, values-based decision-making.”

Candace ChambersStaff Writer

Black History Spotlight: African-Americans CEO’sPage 4 - February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

Student fi nancial habits are learned during college experience

Th e rising cost of obtaining a higher education has left many students with the need to borrow heavily from fi nancial institutions to fund their educational endeavors. However, the reckless

spending of refund money from these loans and other student fi nancial aid funds can lead to long-term fi nancial debt and irresponsible spending habits that will follow these students for life.

Some students feel that their peers spend signifi cant amounts of money on things that they can

and appreciated.

“I’ve Lovin’ It” is probably what Donald “Don” � ompson says about his role in ensuring quality food service at the world’s largest foodservice company, which serves 69 million customers in 118 countries. Th ompson began his position as President and Chief Executive Offi cer of McDonald’s Corporation on July 1, 2012. He has served for 23 years at the corporation, beginning as an electrical engineer in 1990. With many leadership roles, Th ompson has continued to lead in the company’s mission to “become our customers’ favorite place and way to eat and drink,” according to aboutmcdonalds.com.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kenneth I. Chenault has served American Express Company since April of 2001. He has climbed the ladder of success through the company. Chenault joined American Express in 1981 and was named president of the U.S. division of American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. He later served as president and chief executive officer in 1997 before proceeding to his current position. Chenault is one of few African-Americans who lead a Fortune 500 company.

Kachelle PratcherStaff Writer

Photo: Google

Variety Page 5- February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

Mississippi artist Slimm Pusha discusses new music

know what it was or what happened in those times that made people not really want to deal with Mississippi, but Mississippi has to work a whole lot harder than any other state to get recognized.... So you’re going to have to work extremely hard to shine a light on Mississippi [because] it’s not well known for what you want it to be known for.

Mark Braboy: What advice would you give to up and coming artist coming out of Jackson State?

Slimm Pusha: First thing fi rst,

if you’re coming out of college and trying to go where I’ve gone, you need to make sure this is exactly what you want to do before you even resign. You need to know if this is exactly what you want to do, because it’s full of sacrifi ce. Any young artist that’s coming up, I always tell them to be prepared to sacrifi ce it all to get everything that you want. You’re not going to be able to sacrifi ce a little bit because you’re gonna get a little bit. If you sacrifi ce it all, you’re gonna get it all…

A rising star of the Mississippi hip-hop scene, Slimm Pusha, has had a spectacular 2013 with the release of “Davyid Blaine: Above the Below” and his fi rst nationally televised appearance on MTV Jams. Th is month, Pusha releases a new album on iTunes entitled “Hennessi: A Very Special Combaq”. In this one on one interview with the budding artist, we talk about not only his album, but his new found success and being an independent artist representing Mississippi.

Mark Braboy: How has 2013 been for you?

Slimm Pusha: Man, 2013 was a very good year. Especially at the end of it, I think I’m more proud of that year than anything. Well actually the whole year man, I dropped a project “Dayvid Blaine” at the beginning of the year in February and kind of let it just play out for the whole entire

year. I had a couple records played on Shade45 on Sway’s radio station, then I ended up in New York on MTV at the end of the year, so 2013 was pretty good.

Mark Braboy: How would you describe this point in your career?

Slimm Pusha: Well right now, I’m on the radar. I’m defi nitely on the national radar right now, so I happen to approach situations a little bit diff erently than I would in 2013. “Hennessi,” is just really infl uenced by the actual liquor Hennessy. It’s completely diff erent than “Dayvid Blaine,” you know, “Davyid Blaine” I was a little bit more conscious with it and it was a little bit more mellow. “Hennessi” it just turns the volume up to the situation a little bit more.

Mark Braboy: You said that you came up with the title based on the actual liquor?

Slimm Pusha: Right. “Hennessi”, the whole concept of it is a million things you can think about and can’t talk about when you’re intoxicated,

you don’t care about the backlash or feedback that you get from it. Th e whole time I was creating the project, I was actually drinking Hennessy. It’s really infl uenced by the intoxicating feeling off drinking that brown liquor.

Mark Braboy: Based on Birdman’s co-sign he gave you, would you be willing to sign to Cash Money sometime in the future?

Slimm Pusha: Pretty much, depending on what Baby is doing man. Baby is a real busy man and I know he signed a whole lot of artists who never really get off the ship. For the most part, if he’s talking right and like I said, we’ll be with a record label and if he can provide the right things I need right now, then yeah, I’d be down to do that.

Mark Braboy: Do you think there is a stigma against Mississippi artists?

Slimm Pusha: I’m not sure, but ever since the blues era—I guess once that era was done and over with they went into another form of music. I don’t

Mark BraboyNews Editor

Crystal KillingsworthStaff Writer

As a young African-American woman, I’ve always heard how people like me have to work signifi cantly harder than our Caucasian counterparts to be successful in life. I’ve never questioned this allegation considering the evidence was all around me. I saw the young black men fi lling the jailhouses and I saw the young black women having babies at sixteen, wondering how they were going to take care of a life when they themselves had yet to live. I saw the proof that the rumors held some truth and if I didn’t want to become another statistic, I had to become an example.

5. “We can’t move forward because we’re constantly attacking each other and bringing each other down.”

Camille AmosFreshmanMass CommunicationsJackson, Miss.

6. “Our pride restricts us from succeeding because we self-consciously think that we’re not able to be good enough because of past struggles.”

Alexis ScottFreshman Mass CommunicationsAtlanta, Ga.

7. “Instead of looking to the future for betterment, black people stifl e their growth by dwelling in the past”

Isaac Anderson SeniorMusic EducationJackson, Miss.

8. “African-Americans are always following the media instead of making decisions on their own ideas and this ultimately holds them back from achieving personal goals.

Kera Harris FreshmanSocial WorkMemphis, Tenn.

9. “Th e music genre today that portrays ‘fast life’ behavior confuses us into believing that life is all about fl ashing money and getting women. We get so wrapped up in this dream world that we can’t see that it’s holding us back from obtaining real success.”

C. KiddJuniorBiologyEast St. Louis, Ill.

Staff WriterCrystal KillingsworthStaff Writer

Top ten things that hold black

people back

10. “Our main focus is solely on obtaining any and every technological gadget. Until we get our priorities straight we will continue to be held back.”

Gerald ReidFreshman Music EducationAtlanta, Ga.

I’m proud to say today that because of hard work and determination, I have accomplished more than I ever would have expected considering I was allegedly at a racial disadvantage. However, since I didn’t let preconceived notions about the color of my skin determine my future, nothing

held me back from reaching my goals.

Today, African American men and women have progressed in politics, education, music, fashion, and much more. Nevertheless, there are

still obstacles that continue to hinder us from achieving even greater things. African-American students at Jackson State speak out on what they feel still hold black people back.

1. “� e clothing selection that some African-Americans choose to wear holds them back from better job opportunities.”

Yasmeen RobinsonFreshmanBiologyGrand Rapids, Mich.

2. “Blacks are envious of each other and can’t get far because of this jealousy. If we support each other more, we can achieve greater things together.”

Jonathan GibsonJuniorPsychologyJackson, Miss.

3. “African-Americans can’t get passed reverse racism because we’re constantly playing the ‘forty acres and a mule” card. Th e day that we realize that no one owes us anything will be the day nothing holds us back.”

Charles GreenSeniorCriminal JusticeToledo, Ohio

4. “Many African-Americans are not open to a lot of ideas. In order for our race to move forward as a people, we have to be less close-minded.”

Job LangJuniorBiology Mobile, Ala.

News

home for Academic IT, Distance Learning, and the location for faculty development and training.

By September, there will be another part of that center in the library called Create. Create will focus on students creatively using the technology to explore new levels of knowledge.

Many students and faculty members feel that the campus library is being transformed into a modern digital intellectual commons. Innovate is the first phase of the transformation. The second phase, Create, will be a space for students to complete digital projects and assignments. Create will open in the fall of 2014.

Some students feel cyber learning will send JSU on the path to greatness.

“Providing Tiger Tech and giving students iPads is helping because everything is turning into technology. Everything is not just in textbooks, there are other learning tools. The next focus

should be on making sure half of the computers in department labs are working. I feel JSU is going in the right direction by improving the technology,” said Shana Wehrly, a senior sociology major from East St. Louis, Ill.

Nigel Dixon-McCollum, a junior speech communications major from Canton, Miss. and a transfer student from Holmes Community College, said JSU has set itself apart from many institutions.

“I first came to Jackson State this past August. I’m glad something positive is coming to Jackson State University. People can now stop saying that nothing good comes from this school. I attended Holmes Community College and they did not implement or emphasize on technology. I feel Jackson State is on the right track. If they keep up what they are doing now, it will be great,” said Dixon-McCollum.

For information on cyber learning, contact Dr. Robert Blaine at 601.979.2244 or robert.blaine@jsums.edu

Page 6 - February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

Cyberlearning,Cont. from pg.1

it. I haven’t given it much attention, but I understand why the government is forcing citizens to purchase healthcare. I understand the politics behind it, as long as the poor and the middle class don’t have to suffer from just a few people’s success. It’s like buying car insurance, it’s required to protect you from any negligence from an accident. However, you can always buy another car, you can’t buy another life,” said Wilkerson.

Gabriella Hall, a sophomore music education major from Carthage, Miss., said she is unaware of the Affordable Healthcare Act.

“I don’t know too much about the law, and I haven’t heard anyone talk about it. My relatives work in the medical field, but I haven’t heard anything about the specifics. I am currently on my parents insurance until I can pay for my own necessities,” said Hall.

Christopher Cox, a JSU political science graduate student from Moss Point, Miss., and an Outreach

and Enrollment Specialist at J a c k s o n - H i n d s C o m p r e h e n s i v e Health Center, thinks that college students should conduct more research about the Affordable Care Act.

“College students should educate themselves about gaining health insurance. One way is to visit www.healthcare.com. The website gives you vital information about the Affordable Care Act or any insurance marketplace,” said Cox. “Students can talk to certified application counselors; their job is to present the affordable care act in a way in which people would consider signing up for the plan. They will help people follow the necessary steps to be insured without any confusion or false marketing. Our goal is to reach out to people that are 18-30 years old, the hardest age population to convince.

Cox added: “One attribute of the Affordable Care Act is to stop any insurance companies from over-charging customers on

their premiums. It makes them liable from any unfair service. Everyone should check out the plan instead of being persuaded by what others say. There have been misconceptions in the media of how the health plans works for citizens.”

Students are among the group least likely to be consider health care. Individuals without insurance will begin accruing penalties as of March 31, 2014, but experts agree that for young people, the incentive to pay for health insurance simply is not there. Added to expenses such as rent, car payments, auto insurance, food, student loans, and clothing, very few young people have the sort of disposable income to allow for another added expense, particularly one as high as their health insurance would be.

Care Act,Cont. from pg.1

“I have no insurance, nor do I know much about it. I haven’t given it much

attention, but I understand why the government is forcing citizens to

purchase healthcare” - Theron Wilkerson

Center, under the leadership of the late Researcher, Dr. Mark Colomb; National Black Alcoholism and Addictions Council; and National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS.

The first NBHAAD initiative was launched on Feb. 7, 2000 amid alarming statistics that nearly 20,000 Blacks in the United States tested positive for HIV each annually. Fourteen years later the focus of NBHAAD remains on national HIV testing and the spread of knowledge amongst black communities. The four specific focal points are education, testing, involvement, and treatment.

Sponsors include the JSU Division of Student Life, Health Services, Latasha Norman Center, Project S.A.F.E, JSU Student Government Association, RUF and Alpha Beta Chapter, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

For information on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, contact Victoria Coleman at the JSU Health Center at 601-979-2260.

Jackson State University will mark National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day with two events to encourage everyone to “get educated, get tested, get involved and get treated.” The events include a Praise and Prayer Service in partnership with RUF on Thursday, Feb. 6 and a NBHAAD Teen Dating Violence Forum and Movie Night on Friday, Feb. 7. Both events will be held in the JSU Student Center Theatre and are open to the public.

The RUF Praise Team along with Rev. Elbert McGowen will include HIV/AIDS awareness information and prayers in their weekly Thursday night campus ministry service, beginning at 7:30 p.m. On Friday, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., free and confidential Rapid HIV Testing will be available on the third floor of the JSU Student Center.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., Feb. 7, a panel of health educators will speak to dating violence, prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS in the African

Special to the Flash

Nat ional Black HIV/AIDS Awareness DayAmerican community, and answer questions about the disease. Panelists include: Keisha Varnell, Prevention/Intervention Specialist, Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence; Mauda L. Monger, Program Director, Mississippi AIDS Education Training Center; and Keith Bush, Trainer with the University of Mississippi CDC Training Center and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity’s wellness initiative.

The movie, “Precious, directed by Lee Daniels, will be shown following the panel discussion.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a grassroots effort founded by five national organizations funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 1999 to provide capacity-building assistance to Black communities and organizations: Concerned Black Men, Inc. of Philadelphia; Health Watch Information and Promotion Services, Inc.; Jackson State University - Mississippi Urban Research

Sports

Jackson State University Lady Tiger, junior Ayanna Hardy-Fuller, collected her fourth double-double to help the Lady Tigers defeat the Mississippi Valley State Devilettes 63-56 in Southwestern Athletic Conference action on Feb. 2 at the Leflore County Civic Center. Hardy-Fuller finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

The Lady Tigers struggled shooting 11-33 from the field while trailing the Devilettes 26-24 at the half.

Junior Ke’ra St. John scored 16 points and junior Ekwara Ndongo received 13 points and 6 rebounds to add to the Lady Tiger victory.

Olivia Kennedy was the

Devilettes offensive threat with 15 points. Joncyee Sanders collected 11 points and 6 rebounds and Jasmyne Sanders added to the double-digit scoring trio with 10 points and 5 rebounds.

The Devilettes led 56-55 with 1:46 remaining when the Lady Tigers went on a 7-0 run to seal the victory.

With the win The Lady Tigers rises to a 7-11 overall and 5-3 Southwestern Athletic Conference record.

In men’s action, MVSU player Jordan Washington hit a 3-point game wining buzzer beater to seal MVSU’s victory against JSU.

JSU led 30-29 at the half. The Tigers started the second half strong, building an 11 point lead on deep 3-point shots by Javres Brent. Julysses Nobles hit two

Junior Alisa Ross led the Lady Tigers to a 78-69 victory with 16 points against the University of Arkansas at Pine-Bluff on Feb. 3 at the H.O. Clemmons Arena.

With the win, the Lady Tigers improve to 8-11 overall and 6-3 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play.

JSU led most of the game by as much as 14 points with 18:46 remaining. The Lady Tigers shot a season high of 61.7% from the field (29-47), 50.0% from the 3-point line (1-2) and 59.4% from the free-throw line (19-32).

Dominique Brothern collected 15 points and 5 rebounds, Ayanna Hardy-Fuller received 14 points and 5 rebounds and Kameron Jones also contributed to the double-digits scoring with 12 points and 5 rebounds.

The Lady Tigers came out of the gate hot shooting 64.3% from the field (18-28) to UAPB’s 46.7% (14-30). UAPB made some runs but ultimately the Lady Tigers shooting performance was too much. The Lady Tigers outscored UAPB 42-24 from points in the paint and 31-26 off of turnovers.

Jazmyne Victorian led UAPB with 24 points and 8 rebounds. Christina Lasane collected 15 points and Carlisha Walker added to the trio with 13 points.

The Jackson State men’s

free throws to expand JSU’s lead 66-61 with less than a minute on the clock.

The Devils never gave up when Jeffrey Simmons hit a 3 pointer to cut into the Tigers led 66-64 with 16 seconds left. DeAngelo Priar stole the ball from the Tigers, scored a lay-up and drew the foul to tie the game 66-66. Priar missed the free throw and was unable to convert the three-point play.

The Tigers threw the ball out of bounds which gave the Devils the last shot. With seconds running off the clock, Washington grabbed a loose ball at the top of the key and threw up an off-balance two-handed push 3-point shot off the backboard to win the game 69-66.

basketball team can’t seem to rally together suffering from a second consecutive single digit loss against UAPB.

UAPB started the game on fire going on a 10-0 run with 16:46 on the clock. The Golden Lions dominated the first half scoring eight 3-point shots and out rebounding the Tigers 25-17. UAPB led JSU 40-24 at halftime.

Within the first minute and thirty seconds of the first half JSU went on a 5-0 run. The Tigers cut the led to 41-34 by the 17:47 mark. JSU continued to fight tying the game 54-54 with 9:40 left in the game.

The game came down to the wire with 2.7 seconds left JSU trailing by 1 point. UAPB stole the in-bound play sealing the game.

Brandon West led the Tigers with 17 points and 3 rebounds shy of a double-double. Javeres Brent added 13 points and 6 rebound and Julysses Nobles collected a double-double with 12 points and dominating the boards with 14 rebounds.

Marcel Mosley led UABP with 19 points and 6 rebounds.

With the loss JSU falls to a 7-3 overall and 3-6 Southwestern Athletic Conference record.

JSU will return to conference play against state-revival Alcorn State Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center.

Jackson State University has a long line of great alumni athletes that have made their mark in the record and history books. We speak often of the greatness of NFL Hall of Famer Walter Payton and NBA champion Lindsey Hunter, but there are also a long list of unsung athletes who do not garner quite as much attention but definitely deserve their moment in the spotlight.

One of the Greatest athletes in Jackson State history, is Robert Brazile. Brazile, an NFL first round draft pick, defensive Rookie of the Year, perennial Pro Bowl selection and All-Decade Team Selection, helped to revolutionize the defensive sets ran in the National

Football League. In 1974, upon joining the

Houston Oilers after leaving Jackson State his junior year, the 6’4” 240 pound Brazile would go on to become that season’s Defensive Rookie of the Year.

His second year in the league would present more dominance as Brazile would perform well in pass coverage and rank in the top five in tackles for the Oilers, earning him the nickname “Dr. Doom” for his tenacious play.

As an Oilers’ player for his entire career, the JSU alumni and five time All-Pro linebacker would enjoy some team success and failures as Houston never made it pass the AFC Championship games.

The defensive dynamo and the Oilers would then go into a steep decline as a

coaching change proved to be ineffective, making the team go several seasons with losing records.

Even with the constant losing, Brazile’s excellence would continue for the next three seasons as he would make two more Pro Bowls, one more All-Pro selection, and two more All-AFC selections.

Brazile would then go on to retire in 1984 at the age of 31 upon losing his wife to a car wreck. His career would end without a Super Bowl appearance or championship but with 1,281 career tackles, Dr. Doom ranks second in franchise history. The 2003 Tiger Sports Hall of Fame Inductee and the 2007 Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame inductee is truly one of the stars of JSU’s history and a true innovator at his position.

Bridget RobinsonMC301 Contributor

Bridget RobinsonMC301 Contributor

Ke’ra St. John, Ayanna Hardy-Fuller, Radejiah Woodson, Dominique Brothern and Ayanna Lynn in the locker room at halftime

Alumni athlete, NFL and Tiger Sports Hall of Famer, Robert Brazile.

Lady Tigers take the win, men’s team loses with buzzer beater 3 point shot

Lady Tigers continue win streak against UAPB, men’s team falls

Page 7- February 6, 2014The Blue & White Flash

Octavis LawsonStaff Writer

Photo: Bridget Robinson

Photo: Google

Robert Brazile remains an unsung hero in JSU sports history

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