INSIDE JSU Events & Weather ........................................................... 2Opinion .................................................................................... 3 News.......................................................................................... 4Sports ....................................................................................... 8

• OPINION- Let’s make this holiday season unique• SPORTS- Washington challenges players

Th e Jackson State University Tiger football team has their eyes of the prize with the 2013 Southwestern Athletic Conference Championship within their grasp. Th e team clinched their second straight SWAC Eastern Division title with a win over the Alabama A&M Bulldogs.

Th e Tigers will compete against the Southern University Jaguars for the SWAC Championship title. Living up to the motto for the season, this will defi nitely be “more than a game” for the Tigers, who still feel the sting from last year’s bitter defeat in the SWAC Championship game against the University of Arkansas Pine-Bluff Golden Lions.

Many recall the 2012 matchup when the Tigers were leading Arkansas Pine-Bluff 21-14 as the four quarter of the SWAC championship game was winding down. Th e Golden Lions scored on a 95-yard touchdown pass to

title in 2007 when they defeated Grambling State University 42-31. Rick Comegy, JSU’s Head Football Coach, has participated in the SWAC Championship game more than any other JSU coach. He has led teams to the game in the following seasons: 2013, 2012, 2008, 2007. He has also recorded JSU’s only win in the current championship format.

pass inside the Tiger’s 10-yard line.

According to JSU Athletics Mediam Jackson State faced Southern in the fi rst SWAC title game in 1999. Th e Jaguars defeated the Tigers 31-30 to win. JSU has a 1-3 record in the SWAC football title games and is making its fi ft h appearance in program history. Th e Tigers won their fi rst SWAC football

tie the game at 21-21. JSU ended up losing the title 24-21 in an overtime battle.

Th is will be the 59th time Jackson State and SU will square off in series history and the 2nd time meeting them for the SWAC Championship title. Th e Tigers have already defeated the Jaguars (19-14) in regular season play. JSU secured the win aft er Southern failed on a fourth down

Th e Jaguars enter the SWAC title game with a four game winning streak, having beaten Texas So., Alabama St., Clark Atlanta and Grambling St. SU scored 38 pts or more six times this season. Th e Jags are led by Dray Joseph. He leads the SWAC in passing yds (3236) and passing TDs (27). Lee Doss is Joseph’s main target. Doss leads the SWAC in receiving yds (1047) and is second in receiving TDs (10). Lenard Tillery leads the team in rushing (741 yds) and has 9 rushing TDs. Daniel Brown leads the team in tackles (83) and sacks (5.5) and Anthony Balancier follows with 79 tackles and 3 sacks.

JSU will send-off the Tigers football team in style on Th ursday, Dec. 5 at 10 a.m. at the T. B. Ellis Gymnasium as the team leaves to catch their fl ight to Houston, Texas. Th e SWAC title game is set to take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Reliant Stadium at 1 p.m.

For those who can’t make the trip, the game will be aired on ESPNU.

SWAC Championship ‘more than a game’ for Tigers

The Best ManHoliday Review

Page 5

Perrymon WrightStaff Writer

File Photo

Congressman Bennie G. Th ompson

December 5, 2013Vol. 74 / No. 13 www.thejsufl ash.com

Check out Th e Blue & White Flash online at www.thejsufl ash.com. Follow us on Twitter @ thejsufl ash

JSU Media Relations

U. S. Representative Bennie G. Th ompson (D-Miss.) will address graduates during Jackson State University’s fall 2013 commencement ceremony for graduates and undergraduates at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center.

Congressman Th ompson has spent his entire life giving a voice to the voiceless. Th e Bolton, Miss. native’s 45 years of public service are a testament to his dedication to Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District. He is serving his eleventh term in Congress and is the longest-

serving African-American elected offi cial in the state of Mississippi. He is also the only Democrat in the Mississippi Congressional Delegation.

Th ompson has always been aware of the realities that plague the South. Viewing the experiences his family endured fi rst hand became the catalyst for his passion for those who were oft entimes underserved.

In 2006, during the 109th Congress, Th ompson’s Washington colleagues expressed their overwhelming confi dence in his abilities, and selected him to serve as the fi rst Democratic Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee. As Chairman,

Congressman Th ompson introduced and engineered House passage of the most comprehensive homeland security package since September 11, 2001 – H.R. 1, the “9/11 Commission Recommendations Act of 2007.”

Commencement seating will begin approximately 90 minutes before start time in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center. Th e doors will close at 5:45 p.m. so that the program may offi cially begin without interruptions.

Guests arriving aft er 5:45 p.m. will be directed to the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium where they will be able to view a live video

streaming of the commencement. Th e Rose E. McCoy Auditorium is conveniently located just across the parking lot from the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center. Th e Jackson State University Public Safety Department will direct guests to this facility.

Th e School of Engineering Auditorium has also been designated as a live video streaming location. Th is auditorium is also located just across the parking lot from the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center.

Graduates should inform their family and friends of the schedule and locations for viewing the commencement.

Congressman Thompson to serve as commencement speaker

Page 2 - December 5, 2013The 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

MISSISSIPPI URBAN RESEARCH CENTER

WORKSHOPThe Jackson State

University Mississippi Urban Research Center is hosting a free two-hour training workshop for faculty and staff researchers on accessing data and services of the Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR), a unit within the Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The workshop will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 11th from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the H.T. Sampson Library in the E-Classroom on the fi rst fl oor.

To register or for more information, please contact: Dr. Sam Mozee, Jr., Associate Director for Research at 601-979-4204 or E-mail: sam.mozee@jsums.edu. Seating is limited and the registration deadline is Monday, Dec. 10, 2013.

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SYLVIA T. WATLEY Adviser

SHANNON D. TATUMPublications Manager

Alexis AndersonCandace Chambers

Gaston DouglasTamikia DunomesTenesha HughesOctavis Lawson

Brandi McKinneyLindsey Shaw

Kachelle PratcherLisette RileyAja Swayne

Derrick WaltonAlan Wells

Perrymon WrightAnetra YearwoodPresiana Dawson

TAYLOR BEMBERYAssociate Editor

MARK BRABOYNews Editor

DOMINIQUE MCCRANEYGraduate Assistant

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Welcome SGA Members 2013-2014:

It is with immense happiness and joy that I extend a great Jacksonian welcome to the entire student body of our dear ole college home, Jackson State University. Since 1877, Jackson State University has been an institution of higher learning founded on the principles and morals of academic excellence and the empowering of the minds of its students. I am greatly honored to be a member of this historical HBCU, and proud to represent its rich tradition.

I have been afforded with the great opportunity to serve as your 2013-2014 Student Government Association President. We have all taken a pledge to fairly govern, inspire, lead, and fight on the behalf of the JSU student body.

As SGA President, I am charged with the challenge of maximizing the student experience by increasing the retention rates of our male students and framing a positive image, re-introducing women initiative programs for mentoring, and nailing the student body into the framework of our SGA through involvement. Thus, my platform “Building Together as ONE” encompasses exactly what my administration with the help of the student body has been working towards to accomplish this academic school term.

Thus far, the SGA has completed a number of things this semester including three packed student body meetings in the Student Center theater, hosted pep rally’s, hotspots, community service projects around the Jackson area through our royal court with Miss JSU Deja Knight, Halloween trick or treating with SGA, Christmas Ring the bell with SGA, as well as supported and hosted a number of fundraisers to benefit those efforts.

In addition under my initiative as president, the “Gentlemen’s Academy” is now up and running and has held two interest meetings and three grand sessions spearheaded by a qualified executive board of JSU men. The SGA has also been apart of a multitude of campus wide events such as homecoming media projects, campus clean up efforts, and midnight madness. This semester, while challenging, has been filled with the upmost excitement and thrill.

Next semester, the SGA with the student body, will continue to “Build Together as ONE JSU” on the foundation of increasing student morale, involvement, and social awareness. So far we have a number of different forums and events planned for the spring semester. Some of these events include four student body meetings, African-American Heritage forums, Gentlemen’s Academy activities, SGA Week filled with events for the student body, election week, and community service projects. I am looking forward to next semester and finishing my SGA Presidential term strong as a Tiger!

As student leaders, it is our job to serve and care about the well-being of our student body, and affectively implement solutions to meet those needs. I welcome you to join this SGA family proudly and actively support each of its members throughout the rest of the school year, as we will support and work tirelessly for the betterment of JSU’s student body!

We are “ONE team, with individual commitments towards a common goal of reaching excellence.” I vow as your leader to continue to stand firm on the principles of which our historic university has been founded. Join me on this long journey as we strive to reach new heights together as ONE SGA family!

Building Together as ONE,

Charles A. Cathey III, Student Government Association President

Th e Blue & White

Flash wishes everyone a safe and happy

holiday!

See you in January 2014!

JSU Campus Briefs

People SpeakOpinion

Compiled by Tamikia Dunomes and Crystal Killingsworth

“Have the holidays become too commercialized?”

Keiara BennettJuniorSocial WorkJackson Miss.“Yes, because during Thanksgiving day, I was called in to work due to the company wanting the employees to come in and to advertise sales for the following day.”

Joseph ThomasFreshmanPolitical ScienceNew Orleans, La.“Yes, I think corporate businesses are beginning to campaign immensely for holidays in an effort to capitalize their earnings during the allotted time period.”

Once again, the holiday season has rolled around. It’s very evident around Jackson State’s campus as green and red wreaths decorate the buildings and blue and silver decorations fi ll the Student Center. As the celebrations of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other holiday gatherings approach, we must be careful not to forget the “specialness” of this time of year.

Yes, stores are fi lled with the latest clothes, purses, video games, and all of the Apple devices. Yes, grandma cooks

that special pie on Christmas that has tasted scrumptious ever since the beginning of time. Yes, we are out of school for approximately a month.

The holiday season could not be any better.

But, let us make this holiday season unique and fi lled with refl ection over the year 2013 by making a commitment of service to others, and most importantly, appreciation for the gifts of life.

As Kool and the Gang energetically sang, “Ce-le-brate Good Times! Come on!” We must celebrate and refl ect on the times during the year of 2013 that have made us stronger as individuals. How can we be BETTER people than we were in the last 12 months?

With the graduation requirement of community service hours in full effect, the holiday season is a great time to engage in efforts to help others. Whether helping to feed the needy at the Gateway Rescue Mission in Jackson or helping at a local community center, service not only helps others, but it also creates a

Page 3 - December 5, 2013The Blue & White Flash

good feeling within. Even spending time with the little ones, cousins, neighbors, or family friends, can make an impact.

Lastly, be sure to be thankful for the gifts in life. Thanksgiving has passed, but the key to the holiday season is being appreciative. Some people wish to be in the shoes we are in as we walk down the plaza at Jackson State University.

So, don’t let this holiday season pass you by. While on the plane back home or sitting at the dinner table with family, refl ect on the true meaning of the holiday season.

Yes, the latest Jordan’s are on the top of the list. Yes, this holiday season comes only once a year. Yes, the break is supposed to be a “break” for sleeping and watching TV.

But, my fellow Tigers, let’s make this holiday season unique.

Nicholas Griffi nSeniorEconomicsJackson, Miss.“Yes; I believe that the traditions of holidays have been turned into profi table days for con-sumers.”

Edward PorterSeniorMass CommunicationsDetroit, Mich.“Yes; I feel that people have turn their backs on the actual cultural meaning of the holiday and have began to focus more on the pres-ents and gifts that come with it.”

Whitney BlanchardSenior Psychology Jackson, Miss.“Yes, because during Thanksgiving day people couldn’t really enjoy the holiday considering some Black Friday sales started that very day.”

Jada IngramFreshmanPsychologyMemphis, Tenn.“Yes because Christmas is supposed to be a time to celebrate and refl ect on the birth of Jesus Christ.”

Ja’Rontez A HookerFreshmanHealthcare Admin.Prentiss, Miss.“Yes because the holidays should be celebrated with family and friends with good laughs and good conversation. They have forgotten the true meaning.”

TeAirreka MontgomerySophomoreCriminal justiceMcComb, Miss.“Yes I feel that Christmas has become commercial-ized.”

Let’s make this holiday season unique

Candace ChambersStaff Writer

Kurt RankinFreshmanPre Physical TherapyWayne County, Miss.“Of course Christmas is to commercialized. Christ-mas is supposed to be a time to celebrate and refl ect the birth of Christ.”

William GibbsSeniorCriminal JusticeJackson, Miss.“No I don’t believe that it is because we live in a technological age with the at advancement of tech-nology.”

Jane WungSeniorEnglishChina“I think that it’s a little too much. I think that they should cut a little down.”

Ann JohnsonSophomorePolitical ScienceChicago, Ill.“Yes; I think that people don’t acknowledge the real meaning of the holi-days anymore because they are too wrapped up on materialistic things.”

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

Cartoon: Alan Wells

COMMENTARY

News

said, “I really enjoyed myself. It was nice to see and to hear a few of the entries. I can’t wait until the journal is printed so I that I can see all the works that were entered.”

Desiree Conton, a junior biology/pre-med major from Peoria, Ill. said, “It was a wonderful event. I enjoyed recognizing my peers for their creativity.”

Shacoby Thomas, a junior English major from Edwards, Miss.

analysis, and for the students to be involved with and provide content for student run publications on campus.

Flippin-Wynn, a key facilitator of the collaboration, explained the need for the students to be prepared for the mass media workforce.

“Our objective is always to make sure that we provide our students with the tools to be successful in their lives after they leave Jackson State, so we look for successful collaborations to achieve that goal. Ms. Watley also knew that there was a need for this collaboration as a mean to empower and prepare our students, so it was not difficult at all beginning this process,” said Flippin-Wynn.

Dilworth described how the collaboration works with her class.

“Shannon Tatum initiated the collaboration after being appointed to teach MC 301 this semester. Afterwards, she told me (Student Publications) needed writers for the eXperience magazine and asked if my Feature Writing students could contribute. I jumped at the opportunity to have my students provide content in an organized way. It’s a win-win situation. Our students gain additional clips for their multimedia portfolios, and the magazine gains writers,” said Dilworth.

In Tatum’s class, the students

enjoyed the opportunity. “I enjoyed gathering with my

fellow classmates in fellowship to discuss things that are important to us through poetry and short stories. We are limited to so much in the classroom setting. So with this competition, it gave students the release that they needed. I believe that it was remarkable and a great turn out,” said Thomas.

Winners are as follows:Essay: 2nd Place-Crystal Killingsworth

Poetry: 1st Place- Britney Williams2nd Place- Jasmine McGhee3rd Place- Andrew Cable

Short Stories: 1st Place- Tiffanie Herron2nd Place- Devonte Collins3rd Place- Sam Wilkins

Visual Artwork: 1st Place- Aaliyah Sibley2nd Place- Kimberly Williams3rd Place- Kenan Mason

are tackling media coverage with a vengeance. Their weekly assignments must have components of multi-media journalism with each submission, including print, video, photo and audio. Projects included coverage of Founders’ Day, the JSU, Alcorn game and, in conjunction with Dr. Sunny Fridge’s digital media class, The Blue & White Flash has completed a JSU Homecoming project that covered the week’s events, including several multimedia packages, and two photo galleries.

The class overall has produced 21 print stories from 27 students, eight video packages from 15 students and four photo galleries from 12 students.

In Dilworth’s class, the eXperience magazine will publish five stories from the class and one profile for the sports feature spread.

Flippin-Wynn said students are gaining real world experience in the journalism through these classes.

“First and foremost, they are writing! Students are experiencing real-time deadlines, copy-editing issues and re-working their content for both print and the web. These collaborations introduce them to what will be expected when they find themselves on the job market,”

“The pen is mightier than the sword” is a common adage describing the full potential and power of writing. Thirty Jackson State University students demonstrated their talent of writing and creating visual artwork in the Sigma Tau Delta “So You think You can Write?” Literary and Creative Arts Festival. Their achievements were recognized at the honor society’s holiday gathering on Dec. 3, 2013.

Sigma Tau Delta is an International English Honor Society that promotes literacy. The literary and creative arts contest was open to all students of any major. Original works were submitted in the categories of poetry, visual arts, essay, and short story.

At the gathering, a “Certificate of Participation” was presented to each student by the Sigma Tau Delta officers. After refreshments, a meet and greet, and the listening of holiday music, participants voluntarily shared their creative works with the audience.

Iasia Collins, a sophomore history major from Jackson, Miss. read her

the entries. There were four judges assigned to each submitted entry for a fair outcome. Some categories of evaluation were originality, clarity, use of medium, and creativity.

Some entries will be published in a Literary/ Creative Arts Journal in the spring semester. These students enjoyed the creative atmosphere of the gathering.

Kimberlee Cooper, a junior English major from Jackson, Miss.

poem, “Excuse me while I still Love.” Collins has been writing poetry and short stories since the age of six and enjoys the venues to convey emotion.

“It’s like putting my hand to the task and my mind to the task. It takes my mind off of what I’ve been going through,” said Collins.

Winners were announced as an anticipated crowd awaited the final decision of judging. Faculty advisors and Sigma Tau Delta members judged

Candace ChambersStaff Writer

The Department of Mass Communications and Student Publications, part of the Division of Student Life, have collaborated this year in an effort to equip students with the necessary skills for the highly competitive field of mass communications.

The proposal for the collaboration was the brainchild of Sylvia Watley, director of Student Publications and Monica Flippin-Wynn, former interim Chair of the Dept. of Mass Communications. Shannon Tatum, publications manager for Student Publications and an adjunct professor in the Department of Mass Communications, was chosen to help facilitate collaboration with

her MC301 Introduction to News Reporting class and with the help of MC404 Feature Writing Assistant Professor, Andrea Dilworth.

The objective of the collaboration is to provide opportunities for students to gain hands on experience in multimedia journalism, develop portfolios of their work for seeking job opportunities and internships, sharpen their skills in research and

Mark BraboyNews Editor

Mass Communication students discuss media convergence with on-campus media entities.

Mass Comm students gain experience through collaborationPage 4 - December 5, 2013The Blue & White Flash

Creative Arts Festival winners

Mass Comm, Cont. on pg.6

Photo Kevin Perez

Photo: Candace Chambers

Creative students honored at Sigma Tau Delta holiday gathering

Variety

their seemingly picture perfect life. Events unfold when all the friends are invited to the Sullivan’s suburban mansion for Christmas.

Although everyone shows up, some participants are less enthusiastic than others. Best-selling author, Harper, has an ulterior motive for attending while Robyn (Sanaa Lathan) is worried about Harper’s former flame, Jordan (Nia Long). At the same time, Candace (Regina Hall) and Shelby (Melissa De Sousa) look to reignite their competition over Julian (Harold Perrineau), who has a shocking revelation. The mischievous bachelor, Quentin (Terrance Howard) is up to his usual antics, causing trouble.

Lee doesn’t waste any time playing catch-up, so if you have forgotten the particulars of the original movie, you may want to watch it again before seeing the sequel.

According to boxofficemojo.com, the “The Best Man Holiday” earnings have already exceeded the original movie and continue to rise. The original movie made over $9

million its opening weekend and has a lifetime earnings gross of over $34 million. The sequel grossed over $30 million its opening weekend and has already grossed close to $64 million worldwide.

“I have seen both “The Best Man” and “The Best Man Holiday” and I liked both of them,” said Andriana Welsey, a sophomore healthcare administration major from Chicago, Ill.

Justin Ellis, a freshman communicative disorders major from Pickens, Miss. said, “I prefer the second movie better. Although the first one was great, the sequel just really did something to me.”

In this brilliant sequel, it is a pleasure to see each of the actors enthusiastically returning to the roles that helped kick-start their successful careers.

Lee includes shocking twists that are sure to have you grabbing tissues from laughing and crying. The movie also ends with a magnificent setup for another sequel which will undoubtedly be embraced by any fan. Let’s just hope we don’t have to wait another 15 years.

Has it really been 15 years since Malcolm D. Lee’s “The Best Man” became a hit romantic comedy? The brilliant movie became a launching pad for several of its attractive, gifted and young stars and added to the genre of amazing African-American romantic comedies which include, “Love and Basketball”, “Love Jones”, “Soul Food”, and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back”.

In 1999, Lee, the cousin of 40 Acres and Mule producer/actor Spike Lee, directed and wrote “The Best Man”, a romantic dramedy about African-American friends figuring out life and love.

Taye Diggs’ character, Harper, was the main focus of the original movie, which chronicled his circle of friends’ reaction to a book he wrote that mirrors events that happened during their college days. The friends gather to attend the wedding of Mia (Monica Calhoun) and Lance (Morris Chestnut).

In the sequel, all the original cast members return as the focus shifts to Mia and Lance Sullivan and

Aja SwayneStaff Writer

Page 5- December 5, 2013The Blue & White Flash

Students and others at Jackson State University are among the growing list of consumers who have found a way to avoid long holiday shopping lines, crowded stores and fluctuating prices. They prefer to shop online and most agree the advantages make it a great alternative.

“Online shopping is great during the holiday season because you’re able to find the things you’ve been eyeing for a good discounted price. I rather shop online than deal with long lines and furious, aggressive customers,” said William Jenkins, a senior mass communications major from Mobile, Ala.

In recent years, e-commerce sales have increased, and this year are projected to reach $262 billion, a 13 percent increase over 2012, according to economists. Special online shopping days like “Cyber Monday” account for record one-day spending each year.

“Online shopping is probably one of the best resorts during the holiday season because one can beat the rush. Instead of standing outside waiting in line in freezing weather one could be in the comfort of their home getting the things they want/need,” stated Justin Smith, a biology/pre-med major from Jackson, Miss.

Michelle Williams, a JSU staff member, is an avid online shopper and relishes not having to go into stores. She shops online an average of three to five times a week.

“In most cases, online shopping is definitely easier than going into a store. Online shopping allows one to shop from the comforts of home while being able to avoid traffic and large crowds,” said Williams. “You are also able to browse the merchandise much easier because all of the items are strategically placed in a manner that is easy to navigate. Plus, many merchants offer “online only” sales that are often better than the ones taking place in the stores.”

Popular online shopping items include gift items, apparel and accessories, cooking/baking accessories and cookware/bakeware.

Bonita Harris, another JSU staffer, buys textbooks, jewelry, electronics sporting goods and even glasses, contact lenses and vitamins online.

“Shopping online is convenient, easy, safe; I don’t have to pay sales tax and shipping is usually free. I do not miss going into crowded stores at all,” said Harris. “You can go to a store just to see what you like and then bargain shop online.”

Shamereal Johnson, a senior communications major from

Jackson, Miss., avoids mall shopping.

“I love online shopping due to the bargains they offer. Also, I like to be different. I avoid shopping in the mall where you know everyone is most likely to have the same thing. Online offers more variety and its more exclusive.”

While online shopping offers advantages, would-be shoppers are urged to keep personal and financial information secure, beware of hackers and buy only from reputable sites.

“To ensure my personal and financial information is safe, I always check the browser information to confirm that is verified and secured. This can be done by looking for “https:” in the browser bar. The “s” signifies that the website is secure,” stated Williams. “Also, I primarily shop using Google Checkout or PayPal because these payment methods are secure and all purchases are insured. These payment methods protect your financial information, which allows an individual to purchase items globally.”

Other tips to those considering shopping from the comfort of their computer or other electronic devices:

• Search the web forreviews on the company to ensure that they are reputable.

• Try to only purchasefrom merchants within the United States.

• Shopatsecureswebsites.Use PayPal or credit cards; ditch debit cards, which offer the least secure option for e-commerce purchases.

• Don’t store personalfinance information: Don’t store credit card details online.

• Use long, strongpasswords; short and common

passwords can be uncovered by persons looking to steal information.

• ChecktheURLtoensurethat you are purchasing from the correct website. They are phony websites that resemble major retailers.

• Alwayssavecopiesofallorders and payment receipts.

• Don’t store personalfinance information: Don’t store credit card details online.

Special to the Flash

Online shopping popularity rises during holiday season

Photo: Dominique McCraney

Student shops online.

Photo: Google

“The Best Man Holiday” sure to become dramedy favorite

News

breastfeeding; getting stuck with an HIV-contaminated needle or object can pass the virus and bites from a person carrying the virus with open sores in their mouth can also cause the virus to pass.

The Student Health Center provides free Rapid HIV testing but does not provide treatment, according to Victoria Coleman, Assistant Director of Nurses and the advisor for the Student Health Advisory Council.

Coleman said, “To ensure the protection and privacy of individuals being tested, the Student Health Center does the testing in their private lab. The results, which are kept confidential and secure, are only shared with the patient.”

The Student Health Center also works closely with other programs to help individuals get tested and stay healthy. Project Safe is a campus testing center that the Health Center works with.

Coleman added, “We also encourage students that are not comfortable getting tested here in the Student Health Center to visit other youth friendly community based organizations such as Building Bridges or My Brothers Keepers.”

Many students feel that having HIV testing on campus is very convenient for students.

“I feel that providing a place on campus for students to get HIV testing done would is a great thing. Since healthcare is important to me, I believe that constantly getting your body examined for any foreign activity could be beneficial for your body in the future. Even if students aren’t sexually active and just want to get checked, that would be great. I would even like to volunteer to help with testing someday,” said Alexus White, a sophomore healthcare administration major form Flora, Miss.

Lindsey Shaw, sophomore sociology major for Biloxi, Miss., said, “I feel it is great and good that it is easily accessible. We all need to get tested because you never know if you have HIV or not. It is not about being “dirty” or promiscuous; it is a part of your health. Anyone is at risk of getting the virus so I think it is great to have a testing place on campus.”

Tiara Walls, a sophomore economics major from Jackson, Miss., said, “I think having a place on campus for students is a great preventative measure towards the spread of HIV. Allowing students the opportunity to receive free testing is the equivalent of telling them to have no excuse of not getting tested. Knowing is better than ignorance.”

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affects more than 40,000 people each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of these, more than 9,500 Mississippians are living with HIV, and as of 2009, Mississippi

had one of the highest rates among individuals 13 to 19 years of age.

To bring awareness to these issues, the Jackson State University Student Health Advisory Council will host a World AIDS Day Lunch Time Information Session today at 11 a.m.- 12:30 p.m., at booth A in the Student Center. A balloon release to honor those affected by HIV/AIDS

will immediately follow the session. All students, staff, and faculty are urged to stop by the booth to receive information regarding HIV/AIDS, testing sites and giveaways.

Some believe that sexual activity is the only way to contract the HIV virus, but that is not true. A mother can pass HIV to her child during pregnancy, birth, or

Presiana DawsonStaff Writer

Students hand out materials at the 2012 World’s AIDS day event.

Jackson State University joins the fight against HIV/AIDSPage 6 - December 5, 2013The Blue & White Flash

said Flippin-Wynn. She added, “One of our

students, Crystal Killingsworth, is an excellent example of what can happen when we utilize all of our resources to prepare our students. She writes and takes photos for the Blue and White Flash, works with Dr. Fridge and TigerTV, does a radio show and is preparing for graduate school. So, these collaborations, which begin in the classroom, offer our students the opportunity to be creative, independent, and self-confident and prepared. It is a win-win situation and an exciting time,” said Flippin-Wynn.

The students in these classes appreciate the experiences the collaboration offers.

Ashley Norwood, a senior English journalism major from Jackson, Miss., said, “Uniting Student Publications with the mass communications curriculum gives me the opportunity to get the experience and learn the process of publishing. It’s a win-win situation. I have the knowledge and the evidence to show my qualifications

to prospective employers.” Robria Daniels, a junior

English/journalism major, said the hands-on experience has changed her future career plans.

“I had every intention of attending Law School or possibly going into the classroom as an English teacher. Surprisingly, after just one class meeting, my mind had instantly changed. I no longer wanted to pursue either of the two that I had in mind. I instantly wanted to pursue a future in journalism or news casting. Professor Tatum opened the door to a new path for me, in which I choose to follow. I have no doubt that someone else will be uplifted by this course as well,” said Daniels.

Tatum said she looks forward to the continued collaboration between the two.

“As a graduate of the Mass Communications department and a Student Publications employee, I was honored to be able to facilitate the collaboration between both departments. It was my hope that the collaboration would provide much needed hands-on opportunities for the students. I feel that we were successful in this endeavor,” said Tatum.

Mass CommCont. from pg.4

Photo: Dominique McCraney

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Dec8_MCAN_46WebPage 7- December 5, 2013

The Blue & White Flash

SportsWashington challenges players on court and in classroomPage 8 - December 5, 2013The Blue & White Flash

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volleyball player said that working with Washington has been a good experience.

“She will challenge you not only on the court, but in the classroom. Her expectations are high, which has caused us as players to set high expectations for ourselves. Hard work and academic excellence is something that she has instilled in me that will transcend through my lifetime. Although it was not easy, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Coach Washington for four years,” said Williams.

Jasmine Knight, a sophomore on the volleyball teams stated that Washington makes working as a team fun by doing a lot of team bonding activities during practice.

“She knows that bonding as a team is the only way in being successful as a team aside from talent,” said Knight. “A few things Coach Washington has done that inspired me on the court is how she accepts constructive criticism. Things she says on the court to prep me individually is how she constantly reminds me to be accountable because the team needs me. She also stresses the

fundamentals and skills I need to be effective. She frequently informs me on the court how hard of a worker I am and she pushes me to become better! In life, Coach inspires me because she tells me how important academics are and the fact that your transcript is one thing that will always reflect an individual.”

Washington stated that her love of teaching is what makes coaching volleyball worthwhile.

“I get the opportunity to do what I like to do, which is teaching. I like to teach because it’s a challenge for me to see how I can get the players to improve. It’s rewarding because I can see it happen, and see their confidence grow as they get better over the years,” said Washington. “Not only on the court, but to see how the player matures. They come in as little girls coming out of high school and away from home for the first time, and just to see by their senior year how they develop to being a young woman. It’s very rewarding to see and know that I had a small part in helping their maturation. It’s a part of their life that they will always remember, good or bad I’m a part of that.”

As head coach of the Lady Tigers Volleyball team, Rose Washington gained a rewarding victory in 2011 with the Lady Tigers winning their first Southwestern Athletic Conference title and taking their first trip to the NCAA Tournament. So far while coaching here at Jackson State University, that was her most memorable moment.

Washington graduated from JSU

with a Bachelor of Science in 1977 and earned a master’s degree in 1979.

When asked what first attracted her to volleyball, she stated “I’m from the Virgin Islands and at home we were raised up on sports. For me, volleyball was just another sport to play after basketball season and after that there was softball season. It was just a part of my upbringing.”

Washington recalls that when she attended JSU, they did not have a volleyball team.

“The only sports they had for

girls, I’m talking back in the days when Title 9 was still an issue, was basketball and that started when I was a junior. Outside of that, all they really had was track, even though I ran track, I wasn’t interested in it,” said Washington. “So, no I ever played volleyball here. I played at home, in school, and on a traveling team in the Virgin Islands.”

Washington usually hangs up a quote in the locker room to off start the season. Charles Haley an NFL linebacker, who won over five championships, and played for the Dallas Cowboys and the San Francisco 49ers said, ‘If you sacrifice early, you’ll win late.’

“That quote kind of stuck with me because I’m about defense so I could relate to what he was saying about that. If you prepare early, like studying or practicing and if you sacrifice all the things you need to put into work, you will have the victory at the end. It’s not too much your opponent can fool you with, so you’ll win late. If you don’t do any of those things, you don’t stand a chance because you didn’t prepare yourself physically or mentally,” said Washington.

Paige Williams, a senior

Brandi McKinneyStaff Writer

Volleyball head coach, Rose Washington coaching players.Photo: Dominique McCraney