SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 TheFamuanOnline.com FAMU grad Shevrin Jones raises the bar in Delores Battle Staff Writer This election has seen multiple be the first openly gay men to serve in the historical “firsts” and a record number stateSenate, after previously serving in of influential wins. Kamala Harris will Florida’s House of Representatives. become the first female vice president of According to an interview with NBC the United States under the presidency of News, Jones said the election of a record Joe Biden. But the successes do not stop number of lesbian, gay, transgender and there. A record number of LGBTQ candi- bisexual candidates “is a direct push- dates scored victories that made history back on the hatred and bigotry over the across the United States. last four years,” referring to President According to the LGBTQ Victory Fund, Trump’s open discrimination against there were approximately 574 LGBTQ immigrants, the LGBTQ community and candidates on the ballot and state election people of color. results show that more than 220 won “Having Shevrin Jones be elected to their respective races. Never before has the Florida state Senate and also be a there been this much representation on FAMU graduate just shows the level of an election ballot for LGBTQ candidates. prestige we have at our school,” Haywood Several FAMU voters are calling it a “rain- said. “Once a Rattler, always a Rattler.” bow wave.” Other notable victories for the LGBTQ For Jada Haywood, a first-year food community came in the form of defeats science student, the lack of representation from other incumbent candidates. One of for LGBTQ candidates in elections has Jones’ opponents, former state Senator deterred her from wanting to vote. But , previously supported this election, she felt a renewed hope as anti-gay legislation, specifically a ban on hundreds of queer politicians filled the adoption for gay couples. ballot. The election of LGBTQ candidates “As someone who is a part of the to the state Legislature despite the state LGBTQ family, I think it’s super import- turning red shows voters’ broad support ant that we increase our representation for pro-queer and transgender rights. in political offices,” Haywood said. “Who This year has also been a record-break- else could be a better advocate for our ing year for transgender elected officials community than our own community across the nation as well. Voters elected members? We need people like us, for us.” six transgender candidates to state offices Supporting the election of LGBTQ can- that will increase the current number didates is not foreign to FAMU students. from four to seven. Florida state Senator Shevrin Jones, a Photo courtesy NBC News FAMU alum, received immense support Shevrin Jones, a FAMU alum, makes history as the first openly gay man elected to the Florida from the Rattler student body. Jones will State Senate. 2 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 NEWS Sentence reduced for FAMU ‘bathroom bomber’

Amari Jarrell Staff Writer

Lawrence M. Lombardi was sentenced “My actions then were racist and violent to life plus 39 years in federal prison for and I scared so many people, but I have setting off two pipe bombs in the bath- changed. I am asking for your mercy your rooms of Lee Hall and Perry Paige in honor.” 1999, but his sentence was reduced this During the argument from the gov- afternoon to 54 years. ernment, the prosecutor said that she felt Due to COVID-19, the re-sentencing like, “the court needs to send a clear and hearing was held through a Zoom confer- unambiguous message that these acts will ence call, with U.S. District Judge Robert not be tolerated and need to be met with Hinkle presiding over it. the most severe punishment available.” Hinkle said that Lombardi had a Lombardi was a white, unemployed right to a re-sentence hearing based on a funeral embalmer who was said to have Supreme Court decision which resulted in called a local television station on Aug. 31 two of the six counts against Lombardi to and Sept. 22 using racial slurs and profan- be vacated. ity, warning them of the attack before “I did that because I believe that is the both bombs went off. correct application of [United States vs. Lombardi previously stocked the Davis (2019)],”Hinkle said. vending machines at the school, yet Lombardi apologized for what he did, maintained his innocence, stating that something he did not do during his 1999 authorities used him as a scapegoat while trial. “I’m so sorry for my words and ac- ignoring leads that may have led to some- Photo courtesy famu.edu tions of 1999. I take full responsibility for one else, during his sentencing in June Lee Hall, the site of where the first bombing took place on August 31st, 1999. what I said and did then,” Lombardi said. Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/geztgt FAMU DRS hopes to reopen Nov. 30 Courtney Spry Staff writer Cassandra Warner has mixed feelings son, who’s in the ninth grade, daughter about FAMU DRS switching to online in- Naiyima Warner, who’s in the fifth grade, struction two weeks before Thanksgiving. and granddaughter Kamora Smith, who is FAMU announced last week that the in the second grade. school’s superintendent ,Micheal John- “DRS is doing a great job in managing son, informed all stakeholders at FAMU COVID. I feel like we’re doing a better job DRS that the campus will be closed until than any other school in Leon County and November 30 following two positive I love that we shut down whenever there’s COVID results. a case,” Warner said. She mentioned how “During this time, all buildings will the staff does temperature checks on all be thoroughly sanitized and cleaned per students before they enter the campus guidance and instructions from the Cen- and is pleased with their precautions. ters for Disease Control and Prevention,” She also insisted that shutting down the Johnson said in an email to parents. school should be mandatory and that While some may not agree with John- other schools should follow suit. Photo courtesy tallahassee.com son’s decision, Warner is appreciative that Warner is a psychology professor at Due to positive test results, FAMU DRS closes campus again until November 30. these measures are being taken to ensure the safety of her son Tamarien Donald- Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/yy3jzf NEWS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 3 Student Senate confirms Chief Diversity Officer on second attempt Tykeem McCray Staff Writer Florida A&M University’s Student cessful at that time. related to the inclusion and addition of Senate filled multiple positions during its Like the last meeting, there was mild this department,” Calvin said. “I think weekly Zoom meeting Monday evening. division among senators during Guyton’s when I asked about who the minority The senate confirmed appointees for Dep- appointment as Chief Diversity Officer. groups on campus were and what their uty Attorney General, Deputy Secretary Senator Randall Leath urged senators issues are, the answers were insufficient of Athletic Affairs, Chief Diversity Officer to vote for the candidate based on the and that is an issue,” Calvin said. and School of Law Associate Justice. passion and qualifications the candidate The candidates included Tareq Salley, would bring to the position. Ultimately, Guyton was successful and Nikyya Smith, Jaelyn Guyton and Edward “As I said last meeting, I believe that confirmed for the position of Chief Diver- Lavant, respectively. Each candidate this candidate is definitely the best fit for sity Officer. In the roll-call vote, Guyton was provided a two-minute opening and this position,” Leath said. “He already had a strong majority with an 18-7-0 vote. closing period for remarks. The opening proved that he is qualified for the job and In his two-minute closing Guyton was was followed by a 10-minute question and I think he has the passion to make this optimistic about the position and working answer session, initiated by the Elections department work the best.” with the senate for the remainder of the and Appointments Committee chairwom- Senator Bria Calvin urged senators not academic year. an Maya Robinson, followed by questions to vote for the candidate. Calvin argued Logo courtesy of SGA from other senators. that when she asked the candidate what “I think moving forward we’re going All the appointees were successfully issues plagued minority groups on cam- to have a wonderful rest of the year and I this position and the student body in the confirmed. The Chief Diversity Officer’s pus, his answers were inadequate. look forward to working with all of you,” coming years.” appointment was initiated in last week’s “I believe that the questions asked to Guyton said. “Hopefully, we can come Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/2stz9n senate meeting. However, it was unsuc- Mr. Guyton were pretty clear, simple and together and make something great out of Local non-profits struggle amid pandemic Kamryn Marshall News Editor More than anything charities are eager ized and receiving medical treatments. working conditions with the suspension to get back to serving the people in the Families can rest, heal, focus on the needs of some client-facing programs. Difficul- Tallahassee community. Following the of their child, and receive support from ties in adapting to the current conditions spread of the COVID-19 virus, charities others facing similarconcerns. include the lack of infrastructure and across the nation have been negative- While being associated with a Fortune access to allow employees and volunteers ly impacted, most notably by a lack of 500 company, the non-profit organization to work remotely. funding and the inability to provide aid to is not as well-funded as may would be- Kim Galbán-Countryman is CEO of the those in need. lieve. With almost 400 homes purchased Lighthouse of the Big Bend, which spe- “We have not been able to take any worldwide, each is offered only three cializes in serving the blind and visually families in, which has been so hard and percent of its total operating cost from the impaired community in Leon County and stressful. Not on just us but the families of McDonald’s corporation,and the rest of its neighboring counties. In a world that is course,” Kim Curren said. the budget comes from fundraising and becoming more virtual, this organization Curren is house operations and volun- donations. seeks to help clients with vision impair- teer manager for the Ronald McDonald According to the Charities Aid Foun- ments stay engaged in life independently House Charities of Tallahassee. Also dation of America nearly 68 percent of and safely. Now that most employees Photo courtesy Ronald Mcdonald House known as “the house that love built,” the organizations reported a decrease in fund- are working from home, many have had Charities of Tallahassee organization provides a safe place for ing and difficulties reaching donors. Orga- families with children who are hospital- nizations were forced to move to remote Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/adfs5e 4 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 NEWS COVID cases on the rise as holiday season approaches Stephan Symonette Staff Writer

Photo courtesy CDC.gov Coronavirus cases in Florida climb as holiday season approaches.

The CDC has reported rapid growth of reconnect with their loved ones. I will worry less by driving this time,” said “Before you travel, check to see if coronavirus cases across the country with- Many people plan to handle travel Jones. COVID-19 is spreading at your desti- in the past week. The latest information procedures differently this year due to the The numbers are steadily rising and nation. The Center for Disease Control shows that Florida has 36,065 new cases, coronavirus. many are concerned about how they are website allows you to check each state’s bringing the total number of 846,321 Nicholas McKenney, a FAMU gradu- going to get through the season with the COVID-19 cases for the last seven days. cases currently. ate student, says he is prepared to travel virus occurring. There are some solutions Consider that if you are asymptomatic In Leon County, there have been near- amidst the virus. to still have a safe and enjoyable holiday and return from the holidays, you may ly 500 new cases reported over the past “I plan on traveling during the pan- season. infect loved ones when you return,” Lopez week according to the Florida Department demic, with safety being a priority. I plan Simon J. Lopez, MD, PGY-3 has some said. of Health. With temperatures lowering to make sure that I am wearing a mask, recommendations on how to approach Lopez also reminds students to wear a into the winter, there is now a greater risk and not being around people who have this holiday season during the pandemic. mask during any form of traveling, avoid of catching the virus. been exposed to COVID,” McKenney said. “Besides wearing a mask and pro- close contact by staying at least 6 feet With the holiday season approaching, Taking on different methods of travel moting social distancing, consider other apart from anyone not from your house- there could be an increase in cases due to is a consideration. FAMU student Heaven methods such as online or contactless hold, and wash your hands often for 20 traveling. Many students and faculty will Jones plans to lower COVID stress by reservations and check-in, alongside con- seconds with soap and water. Hand sani- be planning to travel across the country driving. tactless payment methods,” says Lopez. tizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used to visit families in the upcoming weeks. “As the holiday season approaches, I Lopez recommends taking early pre- as an efficient substitute if hand washing Staying safe and healthy is now a major plan on driving back home. Although I cautions by researching exactly where the is not possible. concern during a time where people get to have taken a flight to New York, I feel like virus is. LIFESTYLES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 5 New skatepark coming to FAMU Way Noella Williams Lifestyles Editor

A new skate park designed by Team park design build specialist company, and ernmental Agency’s website, the prelimi- skateparks. Pain Skateparks is making its future ap- they are leading this park project with nary concept includes several areas with “A typical snake run is a long and pearance in Tallahassee on the northeast Blueprint,” Calder said. “We couldn’t be different elements to skate, curved banks, winding path that flows downhill and con- corner of FAMU Way and Pinellas Street. more thrilled to have them be a part of the rails, leisurely seating and a restroom. At tains undulating, transitional turns and A video that surfaced on Facebook last team.” the meeting, Tim Payne, founder of Team hips,” the website stated. “There usually Friday showed the preliminary design of Team Pain is a Florida based skatepark Pain, shared the biggest feature in their are multiple changes in elevation, making the park and shared information about specialist with a history of building cus- preliminary concept. each turn or hip slightly different.” the two public meetings for input. The tom skate structures, concrete skate park “We envision — what would be more Besides its architectural highlights, first meeting was held Wednesday, Nov. and indoor wood facilities. Their company perfect than the FAMU snake in the snake the park plans to include art from local 18, via the GoToMeetMe app. attempts to gain advice from the local run,” Payne said. artists, a graffiti wall and historic instal- To begin the meeting, Autumn Calder, skating community to create an one-of-a- The noticeable highlight of the park lations to honor the local neighborhoods the director at Blueprint Intergovern- kind facility. Past projects include skate- is their snake run, which features a large and civil rights advocates. Team Pain is mental Agency, introduced Tim Payne parks in Lakeland, FL, Breckenridge, CO, rattlesnake in the center. The snake run open to hearing any criticism, suggestions and his company, Team Pain, who will be Apex, NC, and Tallahassee’s skatepark on is designed to pay homage to Florida and ideas for the park via this survey. responsible for creating the park. Jackson Bluff Road. A&M University, but it is also a popular The skatepark is estimated to be fin- “Team Pain is a Florida based skate- According to the Blueprint Intergov- feature that is unavailable in Tallahassee’s ished in Fall 2021.

Photo courtesy Team Pain Preliminary concept of new skatepark. 6 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 LIFESTYLES

Staff Editor-in-Chief Demolition Diva Ariyon Dailey Managing Editor Maya Porter Media Directors Ciara Mims recreates change Vanessa Ferguson Copy Desk Editors Aaliya Rashad Jasmine Butler Devin Myers she wants to see Kaviena Spencer A-Chai’a Jackson Cirsten Jones Staff writer Kennedy Guidry A boss envisions what needs to be done making requires proper branding to attract Educating her clients as a gentrifier, as she Online Editor and proceeds to take action to create change consumers. That is why her alter ego, the likes to describe herself, enables her to help Kailyn Rhone without validation. Tiarra Taylor, MBA, a 39- ‘Demolition Diva’ was introduced to her by a them create happy lives as homeowners, in Assistant Online Editors year old FAMU alumna from Washington, DC, colleague. effort to educate them about financial stability Pam Rentz fits that description. We are the CEOs of our lives, therefore, to maintain their assets. Quintavia McKay Taylor has been an educator for 17 years, a she was given the name because of her bold This Demolition Diva was positioned to News Editors Real Estate investor for two and a half years fashion statements, her tenacity to transform Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/pybcpx Kayla McKinney and someone whose moral purpose is to em- minds and someone whose narrative is de- Kamryn Marshall power her people. pendent upon demolishing whatever does not Assistant News Editor In light of empowering her people, the serve a purpose in her life. Demolition Diva honed into a plethora of Taylor admires a quote by Jay-Z that Michael Moore personal investments. These include Taylor states, “I’m not a businessman! I’m a Busi- Lifestyles Editor 2 U Homes, LLC, as a real estate agent with ness… man!” Noella Williams Fortune Builders and DC Invest, Taylor 2 What this indicates is that we are the Assistant Lifestyles Editor U Fashion and Performance Institute as an representation of our brand, and if we want Skylar Boone educator in the arts, fashion and dance, Taylor people to buy into our brand we first have to Sports Editor 2 U Creations as an entrepreneur and a radio buy into ourselves, hence presentation and Marissa Stubbs host on WOL 1450 AM at Radio One in DC. investments. Assistant Sports Editor A majority of what she earned requires Taylor says that it is always important to Vladmir Cadet undaunted sacrifice and risk-taking, which look nice, as first impressions will set the tone Opinions Editor is why she expanded her investments during as it relates to how people respect or dishonor Sierra Lyons February 2020. what we stand for. Assistant Opinions Editor Taylor has to fuel herself to embody the With a burning desire to elevate, encourage superwoman persona she displays before her and inspire all generations, Taylor keeps her Mia Uzell peers. heels high and her standards higher. Layout Editors “I want to be able to pass something down While some people are complacent, she is Aolani Brown to my daughters, and I want to leave a legacy. none of the sorts. While some people sleep as Meghan Campbell I want to make my daughters and my mother if they are rich, she is wide awake as if she is Photographers proud to assure her that all of her sacrifices broke and has a bag to secure. Of all the assets Rene Romain did not go unnoticed,” Taylor said. “No one that she has inserted herself into, her pride Nahla Muhammad is going to put me into a box to make me feel and joy is educating her students as an aca- Bre’Aja Baldwin less than. I do not take it lightly that I have demic interventionist to help prescribe solu- Advisor been positioned on a platform to help other tions to better students’ educational needs. Douglas Blackburn people achieve success. One thing about However, she does not only educate the Photo courtesy Tiarra Taylor FAMU alumni is we work very hard to exude future real estate agents, doctors and lawyers FAMU alumna and philanthropist, Tiarra Taylor Black excellence.” of her classroom; She also pours into older after a productive day of closing a home in the To be a superwoman and mogul in the generations of today. greater Washington, DC area. LIFESTYLES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 7 Celebrating Thanksgiving in Tallahassee? Here’s a few restaurants that are open Kyle Footman Staff writer

With very scarce dining options in to experience home-cooked food here in Tallahassee for Thanksgiving, there are Tallahassee. some local restaurants offering catering In search of a fine dining experience on and dine-in options. Thanksgiving? Shula’s 347 Grill, located Big Cory’s Country Kitchen, located at at 415 N Monroe St, inside Hotel Du- 1812 S Monroe St, near FAMU’s campus, val, is a great option. They’re known for is solely offering catering options ahead their upscale ambiance and outstanding of Thanksgiving. Patrons can place an service. On Thanksgiving day, they will be order of good ole’ southern food and enjoy open from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. with a a hassle-free Thanksgiving dinner with limited menu and seating at 25% capacity, family and friends. due to COVID-19 mandated restrictions. Cory Corker, owner of Big Cory’s A recommended item on Shula’s menu Kitchen, recommends some items from is their highly desirable Shula Cut Steaks. their menu to have catered. Their center-cut steaks of premium Black “Everything on our menu is good, but Angus beef are hand-selected and aged to if you want something very comforting, I perfection. You can accompany the steak Photo courtesy NBC Chicago Masks on the Thanksgiving dinner table. would suggest our fried chicken, collard with asparagus, creme brulee and a glass greens and sweet potato souffle,” Corker of Daou Cabernet Paso Robles red wine. ing. an experience for our customers. We want said. Bill Holper, general manager of Hotel “Come down to Shulas and enjoy din- everyone to enjoy themselves, including Big Cory’s Country Kitchen grants Duval Autograph Collection, encourages ner with us,” Holpler said. “We’re creating Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/9u5hdt those with southern roots the opportunity people to dine with them on Thanksgiv- Four shows to binge watch over Thanksgiving break

Adrian Andrews Staff writer tinue piling your grandmother’s tradition- in 2019, the hit drama flick gave audi- is serving a year-and-a-half long prison al stuffing on the plate. ences over 70+ episodes in eight thrilling sentence for an encounter with illegal As the country combats the pandemic, seasons. drug money. The story is based on the student celebrations at Florida Agricul- Sam Oliver, a junior criminal justice real experiences of Piper Kerman, who tural & Mechanical University will be major, has binge watched the entire series published a memoir in 2010 of the same extremely different this year. However, since its finale late last year. name. with time away from class, it is the perfect “It’s a story about nine powerful fam- Jordyn Bowers, senior psychology time to enjoy the trending TV shows on ilies seeking for control and triumph in major, has been watching the show since your favorite streaming services. Here is a mythical land,” Oliver said. “I recom- it aired on Netflix in 2013 and has an what some Rattlers recommend watching mend it if you enjoy a really good plot and interest in shows with a realistic spin. during this holiday break. action scenes.” “It’s based on a true story, which “Game of Thrones” is available to makes it really intriguing,” Bowers said. Photo courtesy BGR.com “Game of Thrones” stream on HBO. “Orange is the New Black” is available Binge worthy shows. to stream on Netflix. This multi-Golden Globe and Prime- “Orange is the New Black” Thanksgiving is the holiday that brings time Emmy award winning fantasy drama “The Office” families close and the dinner plates even became one of the most beloved television Taylor Schilling stars as Piper Chap- closer. This holiday break, there will be series of the century. Before its dismissal man, the rambunctious character who plenty of time to kick back, relax and con- Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/5l4y2h 8 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 OPINIONS The battle between your sleep and COVID-19 Nikyya Smith Staff writer The COVID-19 pandemic has shuffled it’s 6 hours, some its 7 hours others its 9 and changed many aspects of life that we hours. Generally, there are guidelines to once considered simple. It has totally what is considered sufficient sleep with flipped our normal day to day lives includ- infants needing 12 to 15 hours, college ing when and how long we sleep. students 9 to 11 hours, teenagers 8 to Dr. Amara Emenike, medical director 10 hours and adults 7 to 9 hours. Sleep of the Tallahassee Memorial Sleep Center, is pretty important because historically spoke with The Famuan about how the most of the major disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our chevron oil spill are linked to insufficient sleep. sleep,” Emenike said. “When you don’t “The effects of the coronavirus pan- get enough sleep there can be disruption demic have been two-fold, so there is to your brain function such as decision the psychological effect where you feel making or awareness, this can also affect uncertainty, you know living through your learning memory and your ability a pandemic, the loss of livelihood and to regulate emotions, So it’s just very things like that can keep you up at night important that we are getting enough and then there’s also the increase of anx- sleep to support our alertness and that iety about personal exposure or exposure you are not sleepy during the day, that’s to loved ones,” Emenike said. how you know you’ve had enough sleep She added: “Sleep is a psychological and not under the influence of caffeinated state so if you are typically anxious about beverages,” she added. something you’re not going to relax Sticking to a sleep routine, limiting ac- enough to let yourself fall asleep, then tivities in bed and adding regular exercise there’s also the effects of the social restric- to our schedules are just a few suggestions tion, with the stay at home orders, physi- to help get a sufficient amount of sleep. cal distancing, the limits of gathering, etc., Emenike has provided a few tips that you all of these have disrupted our education- can adopt if you are struggling to sleep al and professional life, these changes to especially during stressful times such as our routine can help disrupt your internal the COVID-19 pandemic. biologic clock, which is essentially what “Some tips that I would recommend is determines your sleep wake cycle, also that it is pretty important to establish a the fact that people are at home with routine, limit napping, create a comfort- increased screen time, electronic devices able sleeping environment, right tempera- and exposure to high frequency light that ture, dark room, it is very important that Photo courtesy Shutterstock can inhibit melatonin which is typically a you have a healthy diet as well, you don’t hormone that promotes sleepiness.” want to consume high calorie foods just Sleep is an important part of main- sufficient sleep duration, at one end of the Emenike also said that the definition before bedtime, limit caffeine and alcohol taining a healthy lifestyle and if your body U there is a sleep duration for less than 5 of sufficient sleep is whatever amount intake, caffeine does keep you awake so doesn’t receive a sufficient amount, it can hours and the other end of the u is a total you need to support alertness, perfor- it doesn’t make any sense to have a cup lead to negative effects and health prob- sleep time of 10 hours or greater. They are mance and health, but there are some of coffee or energy drink at about 5pm lems such as disruption of brain function, finding that if you are sleeping less than 5 recommend hours of sleep we should be and you wonder why you are unable to weight gain, obesity and even death. hours a night you have an increased risk receiving. fall asleep at 10, allow at least 6 hours be- “Overall studies have shown a of dying just on that fact alone.” Emenike “Sleep duration is variable among in- tween your last drink and bedtime,” said U-shaped mortality curve caused by in- said. dividuals and a lifespan, for some people Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/3ppwrt OPINIONS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 9 You can stand your ground ... unless you are Black Kayla McKinney News Editor Gov. Ron DeSantis pushes to expand The new amendment to the SYG laws, the already controversial “Stand Your as part of DeSantis’ “anti-mob” legisla- Ground” statutes in Florida. This new leg- tion, specifically targets Black Floridians, islation could suppress Black voices and whether intentional or not. disproportionately affect the livelihood of First, it seeks to suppress Black resi- African Americans in Florida. dents’ first amendment right to protest. DeSantis’ proposal for an expansion DeSantis’ proposal stemmed directly of what critics call the “shoot first” laws from Black Lives Matter protests that took comes as response to several protests over many large cities across the country. turned riots that occurred earlier this Writing legislation that specifically details year in response to the unlawful killings the contents of these demonstrations is of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and not only wrong, but very telling. Ahmaud Arbery. It is unfair to label protests for certain Photo courtesy Kevin Whipple Currently, the law allows for the use of causes as “mob-like” and “disorderly” New Stand Your Ground laws can be disastrous for the racial divide in Florida. lethal force if a threat is perceived by any before they even occur; none of the orga- person who is not engaging in criminal to include the justification of lethal force and those involved in looting, which is a nized protests were planned to be violent activity and is in any place a person has a against any person who causes the in- burglary within 500 feet of a “violent or anywhere in the country, but rather right to be. terruption, or impairment, of a business disorderly assembly.” Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/pufuua The expansion of the vague law seeks A normal spring semester may be too good to be true Tazjhani Baker Staff writer hopeful that things will be different by the the fall could give us our fix of the FAMU safety of our student-athletes as our top spring, a normal spring semester may be experience. priority,” Florida A&M VP/Director of too good to be true. While some students were not allowed Athletics Kortne Gosha said. “This was a Florida A&M University officials have to come back to campus at all due to pa- collective decision with our coaches and made some strategic decisions as far as rental advice, others really didn’t see the staff, given the varying circumstances that whether or not classes will be moving need to return. The spring semester truly COVID-19 has created for our program.” forward virtually or in person. Provost became a beacon of hope for many. With One student, Lawrenica Palmer said Maurice Edington released an email stat- thoughts of spring football and possibil- her hope for a normal spring semester ing the re-opening plans for the spring. ities of events — such as Be Out Day and died along with football season. “My hope The plans to reopen left us hopeful for Relay For Life — being in person, most of for a normal spring has diminished due to somewhat of a traditional spring semester us thought that we may have had a chance the rise of Covid cases and the cancelation on campus. to redeem our experience. of football,” Palmer said. “It seems the It is no question that FAMU is more The light of the spring semester, school is going to move towards similar Photo by Baker than just an education. It is an experience however, is starting to slowly dwindle as methods next semester.” Columnist Tazjhani Baker. you can’t find anywhere else. The decision reports of spring football being canceled Several students took to Twitter to to make the fall remote was both disheart- have finally surfaced. express their feelings towards the an- While the fall semester has just about ening and painful to deal with. Many of us “Florida A&M Athletics’ decision to nouncement of FAMU canceling spring come to a close, most of us are left dis- did however flock to the hills for the fall opt-out and forgo the 2021 spring foot- games. satisfied with the modified version of a semester regardless of the new campus ball, indoor track & field and volleyball Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/h0v5qu college experience. Though many remain regulations, remaining optimistic that season was made with the health and 10 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 LIFESTYLES This local lawyer has a side hustle: Cottontail Cookies Taylor Berry Staff writer

Photo courtesy Cottontail Cookies

Attorney and FSU graduate Kathryn put my work out there, the response was McCain has always been a crafty person. just great.” While in law school, she took up crochet- McCain’s advertising was a success ing and even made hats for children who because Cottontail Cookies, launched in were victims of domestic violence. January 2019, began receiving orders So, it was no surprise when she decid- from people who wanted decorated ed to give baking and decorating cookies a cookies that match the theme for their try, which was a failure at first, according special occasion like a baby shower to McCain. But it failed to induce McCain or birthday, which is the company’s to throw in the towel. She found herself purpose — to make any occasion special. getting better after putting in the practice And as time progressed, Cottontail and, eventually, with the encouragement Cookies started to grow as more people from friends and family, her interest ordered cookies for Christmas, Thanks- transformed into a business that she owns giving, Valentine’s Day, Halloween, and operates, Tallahassee-based Cotton- Greek initiation celebrations, and many tail Cookies. more. The company, name and logo were “Watching the growth of Cottontail inspirations from her first bunny she got Cookies over the last two years has been in law school named Milo. incredible,” McCain’s husband, James “I made social media accounts and McCain, said. “Kathryn has put a ton of started posting everything I was making,” hard work into it and turned a hobby McCain said. “I just made what I wanted into a successful business. I’m very to. I’d see something that someone else proud of her. My waistline has a love/ had made or thought of a cute idea and hate relationship to being married to the would just be like,‘I want to do that, I Click link to continue: https://rb.gy/ddtuh5 want to try that,’and the more and more I OPINIONS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 11 Will it really be the most wonderful time of the year? Kyra Watts Staff writer It’s mid-November and we all know what that means: Thanksgiving Break is near. It’s so close that I can smell the Honey Baked Ham and yeast rolls. I can’t remember the last time I was this ready for the Holiday Season. This year has been one for the books. But I’m not too sure if I meant that in a good way or a bad way. Between the coro- navirus pandemic, the recent presidential election, the Black Lives Matter protests, and the forced virtual learning, I know that I’m not the only one feigning for a mental break. Many are awaiting the upcoming holidays in hopes that it will turn this year of frowns upside down. The holiday season usually promotes quality family time, peace, and joy. All of the things the majority of us haven’t been able to enjoy because of this overwhelmingly devastat- ing year. “COVID-19 has taken its toll on the lives of thousands of people, with the holidays around the corner, I am looking forward to some of that Christmas cheer that we all need,” said Beyla Walker, a sophomore from Apalachicola, FL. “I am Photo courtesy Ebony.com excited about the holidays. Not just be- A family enjoys their time together on Thanksgiving. cause of the gift-giving and good food, but because of the overall joy that the holiday that life is not only short but unpredict- “‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ was holidays are here because it’s giving me brings.” able. added to my morning playlist the day real-time to relax and just indulge in A study conducted by OnePoll, on be- The survey also revealed that 56 per- after Halloween… I just couldn’t wait any the moment with my family and friends. half of Hello Fresh surveyed 2,000 Ameri- cent of those surveyed had started their longer,” said Walker. Students are espe- With that being said I am hoping that this cans who generally celebrate the holidays. holiday preparations in September. The cially looking forward to the multi-week holiday season doesn’t bring a jump in The survey aimed to examine how the holidays are specifically devoted to en- Christmas break that is coming up. cases again.” holidays will be different this year after all joying the company of those you love the “After a long semester with no real This holiday season may just be the of the unprecedented events of 2020. most. People are ready for the “what am breaks, I am looking forward to the most wonderful time of 2020, but we’ll According to the survey, surprisingly I thankful for?” talks around the dining holidays. It seemed like every day I had a just have to wait and see what the end of two out of three Americans feel as though room table on Thanksgiving. People are different assignment due, or I had to get the year has in store for us. It’s especial- this Holiday Season will be more mean- ready to put up their Christmas trees with up early and go to work. It was never-end- ly hard when the holiday season comes ingful than ever thanks to the COVID-19 their families and experience that nostal- ing,” said Ross Gordon, a senior student during a difficult time. pandemic. This year alone has shown us gic Christmas spirit. at Morehouse College. “I’m happy the 12 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2020 SPORTS COVID-19 impacts high school recruits Marissa Stubbs Sports Editor As the year progresses, COVID-19 con- tinues to affect the sports world. During this time of uncertainty, ath- letes all over the world are being forced to adjust to a new normal. For high school student-athletes hopeful of being recruit- ed, adjusting to the pandemic has been challenging physically as well as mentally. In the beginning of August, high schools all over Florida were skeptical about bringing high school sports back. Prior to the start of the 2020-2021 academic year, the Florida High School Athletic Association issued safety proto- cols followed by the CDC to provide safety for all athletes. The FHSAA issued strict rules such as, no sharing of equipment, no shaking hands and a required COVID-19 course for all coaches and staff. Brayden Phillips, a senior quarterback at North Florida Christian High School, said that when he first heard of the pan- demic he didn’t know what would happen. “When COVID-19 first broke news, my teammates and I were planning a cruise for spring break. Once COVID became more serious, FHSAA was talking about Photo courtesy Marissa Stubbs taking our season to the spring. I thought Deandre McCray, senior wide receiver at North Florida Christian High School stares out at football field. the virus would last two or three months, then everything would be back to nor- al learning has been chaotic. cruits have not been allowed to travel or They won’t be able to come to my games, mal,” Phillips said. “It was tough trying to adjust because tour Division 1 athletic programs. so it’s going to be tough,” Simmons said. Phillips and his football team were you go from in-class learning to now Sanaa Simmons, a junior volleyball Prep student-athletes are trying to forced to quarantine for two weeks after learning everything online. One of my player at Florida High, said she is unable make the best of their last years in high their season opener against Jefferson teachers came in contact with the virus to tour colleges this year, but she is still school. The pandemic has stripped them County. A player from Jefferson Coun- and had to teach us from home. It’s a exploring her options. of many opportunities, however, and ty had previously tested positive for tough way to learn but you just have to “COVID-19 canceled all of my summer they are learning to persevere through COVID-19 during the game. Philips says take it and get it done,” McCray said. volleyball camps, so i’ve been sending my adversity. his team didn’t receive the news until The impact of COVID-19 has created footage to recruiters. I haven’t been able “My coach always tells us to give every- later that next week. many barriers for high school athletes. to get much footage, considering COVID thing we got, 100 percent, every game,” Phillips’ teammate, Deandre McCray, Juniors and seniors are trying to figure canceled most of our games. It’s going to Simmons said. a senior wide receiver at NFC, thinks the out ways to boost their profile and attract be hard because the only thing colleges transition from in-person classes to virtu- colleges. Due to travel restrictions, re- will be able to look at is my highlights.