EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Madison Dobrzenski TABLE OF CONTENTS [email protected] PAGE 3 How UNC Charlotte became the only UNC EDITORIAL institution with a spring break Olivia Lawless MANAGING EDITOR Tyler Trudeau COMMUNITY EDITOR NEWS PAGE 4 SGA creates new complaint form for Megan Bird NEWS EDITOR students Hiral Patel OPINION EDITOR Emily Kottak LIFESTYLE EDITOR Anders Hare A&E EDITOR PAGE 5 The debate about spring break Bradley Cole SPORTS EDITOR Max Young COPY EDITOR Niyathi Sulkunte PHOTO EDITOR OPINION María Solano VIDEO EDITOR Nic Jensen LAYOUT EDITOR PAGE 6 Niner Sports Roundup

ASSISTANT EDITORS Jessica Ceballos NEWS Milo Cain OPINION Miles Ruder SPORTS SPORTS PAGE 7 Becoming a leader April Carte COPY Elizabeth McGuire VIDEO Brandon Mitchell LAYOUT PAGE 8 Six groundbreaking black TV shows

CONTRIBUTING STAFF Bryson Foster, Amir Daniels, Gabe Lapalombella A&E PAGE 10 Cicely Tyson: More than an actor NINER MEDIA COVER IMAGE PAGE 11 Mini waffle madness Nic Jensen @UNCCMEDIA

NEWSROOM 705.687.7150 NINERTIMES.COM/STAFF @NINER_TIMES PAGE 12 Iced coffee woes LIFESTYLE NINER TIMES CREATIVE DIRECTOR James Bourke @niner_times [email protected] READ + WATCH MORE ONLINE AT MARKETING STAFF Ridge Grant and Luisana Gonzalez NinerTimes.com UPTOWN AUDIO POLICE BLOTTER 1/28: Alarm Fire/Arrest @uptownaudio Officers responded to to East Deck II in reference to a pull station that had been activated. One subject was transported to Mecklenburg County Intake, and LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE STUDENT UNION issued a trespass order. Niner Times • Uptown Audio SANSKRIT Sanskrit Literary-Arts Magazine 1/29: Loitering/Arrest LIT ARTS Media Marketing • Technical Officers responded to the lightrail platform in reference to a subject urinat- THE UNIVERSITY OF AT CHARLOTTE ing on the platform. One subject was transported to Mecklenburg County Intake for MAGAZINE Kelly Merges NINER MEDIA ADVISER an outstanding warrant and issued a trespass order. @sanskrituncc Laurie Cuddy BUSINESS MANAGER Joshua Wood GRAPHICS & PRODUCTION VIEW FULL BLOTTER AT 2 FEB. 02, 2021 NINERTIMES Photo by Niyathi Sulkunte POLICE.UNCC.EDU/POLICE-LOG NEWS

How UNC Charlotte became the only UNC institution with a spring break

Spring break will be held from Feb. 8-12 by Megan Bird Photo of Fretwell durin spring, News Editor courtesy of NT files

In keeping with the abnormalities of In a Faculty Council meeting on Jan. Gaber, who has made a concert- “mental health days.” Student lead- this past year, UNC Charlotte’s “spring 28, Gaber added that the administra- ed effort to engage with student ers pushed back, noting that UNC break” will occur only 3 weeks into tion wanted to allot time for students leaders since beginning her role as Charlotte students had experienced the spring 2021 semester. Chancellor and faculty to quarantine after spring chancellor in July 2020, met with both a school shooting and a pan- Sharon L. Gaber announced on Jan. break without “multiple pivoting” be- members of SGA in early Decem- demic over the course of two years 11 that the break would be moved tween entirely remote and partially ber to discuss the spring calendar. and needed a week-long break. from late March to Feb. 8-12, making in-person instruction. Thus, spring “Student leaders such as myself “SGA is advocating for the stay UNC Charlotte the only university in break was were extremely of spring break as much as we can the UNC System observing a spring moved to the concerned about (pushing hard!),” Sampson told the break. The decision was made in def- penultimate “We heard overwhelmingly from the prospect of Niner Times in December. “Gaber erence to advice from the Student week of online SGA abou the importance of a semester with and Bailey have done a great job Government Association (SGA) and instruction, al- maintaining a weeklong break no spring break, listening to that concern and have Mecklenburg County health officials. lowing a week for the student body during this especially after been supporting that sentiment.” “We heard overwhelmingly from afterwards to upcoming semester. To honor that the burnout, men- Following spring break, on-campus SGA about the importance of main- quarantine tal fatigue and residents and students and faculty taining a weeklong break for the before in-per- request in the safest possible way, mental health with in-person classes will be required student body during this upcoming son classes. the break will occur from Feb. 8-12 concerns that all to submit a negative COVID-19 test semester,” Gaber wrote in her Jan. 11 “I recognize rather than March 29-April 3 as arose from our in conjunction with the return to some announcement. “To honor that request that it’s not previously listed.” fall schedule, in-person instruction on Feb. 22. Ac- in the safest possible way, the break ideal; I rec- -Chancellor Gaber and we advocat- cording to Provost Joan Lorden, 12% will occur from Feb. 8-12, rather than ognize that ed vigorously to of classes are following the traditional March 29-April 3 as previously listed.” virtually no one keep it,” added face-to-face format, and another 12% UNC Charlotte also scrapped its would call that SGA Pro Tem- are considered hybrid classes, with earlier plans to move classes on- spring break,” pore Dick Beek- online and face-to-face components. line after the late March break. conceded Gaber. man in a post on Reddit. “It’s my “The only thing that will change Instead, the semester would be- The decision was announced nine personal opinion that while having in the future is if we find Feb. 22 gin remotely and return to some days before the beginning of the se- spring break so early in the semes- that cases have gone up,” said in-person instruction on Feb. 22. mester, when many professors had ter is not ideal, a poorly timed break Gaber during the Faculty Coun- “In Mecklenburg County, the posi- already finalized their syllabi. Faculty is far better than no break at all.” cil meeting. “We’ve learned not to tivity rate has continually remained Council President Dr. Joel Avrin did According to Student Body President hold our breaths with this virus.” among the highest in the state and pro- not respond by presstime to questions Tahlieah Sampson, the administra- jections anticipate the peak of the virus about whether faculty were consult- tion also considered removing spring in early February,” Gaber explained. ed about the earlier spring break. break and replacing it with several

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 3 SGA creates new complaint form for students

Students can use this form to voice their concerns about the fall 2020 semester

by Jessica Ceballos Asst. News Editor

As we enter this new semester, spondence with the SGA, with students classroom. Furthermore, we recognize UNC Charlotte’s Student Govern- complaining about professors’ expec- that the inherent power structure ment Association (SGA) has created tations during a time of turbulence. within a classroom may cause some a way for students to confidentially “While we do not have the unilateral students to feel intimidated to address notify the SGA of their individual concerns with their professors directly.” struggles from the fall 2020 semes- “While we do not have This form is distinct from the ter through an academic complaint the unilateral authority to Student Grievance Procedure as form located in Niner Engage. outlined by the University Policy: According to a Reddit post by SGA immediately and directly 411. The academic complaint form Pro Tempore Dick Beekman, the change any situation on is addressed by the SGA and lo- SGA created the form for students our own, we are dedi- cated through Niner Engage while to “bring to the attention of Student cated to using this tool the Student Grievance Procedure Government any serious issues you to engage in meaningful is addressed by the University. face.” The form was created by the To fill out the form, students will Academic Affairs Committee with- conversations with faculty need their name, a UNC Charlotte in the Senate with the support of and administrators in or- email, the class name and section, the Provost. The primary author of der to address significant, the class Class Registration Number the act was Jeremiah Williams, and unfair practices within the (CRN), and the professor’s name to it was passed on Oct. 29, 2020. classroom.” complete the form and submit your The form was created in response to complaint. Information will not be disruptions to the fall semester caused -SGA Pro Tempore Dick shared with faculty unless the student by the COVID-19 pandemic. A common Beekman gives explicit permission to the SGA. complaint was that professors did not observe the break on Sept. 28-29 that was intended to allow students to move authority to immediately and direct- on campus. Students reported on Red- ly change any situation on our own,” dit that they stressed over moving on wrote Beekman, “we are dedicated campus, keeping up with attendance in to using this tool to engage in mean- virtual classes and completing assign- ingful conversations with faculty and ments that were due on those two days. administrators in order to address This stress caused high traffic of corre- significant, unfair practices within the

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4 FEB. 02, 2021 NINERTIMES THE DEBATE ABOUT SPRING BREAK Opinion editors discuss the placement of spring break on the Spring 2021 schedule by Hiral, Opinion Editor (Affirmative) OPINION Milo Cain, Asst. Opinion Editor (Negative) LIFESTYLEOPINION

Negative: Affirmative:

A late break; No, a normal break and exhaustion. In addition, the place- A lot of us are on the side of wanting start of the COVID-19 outbreak, that is all I ask for. While it is import- ment of a later spring break would a later spring break. I see why Feb. 8 many college students still went out ant to understand that this decision give the UNC Charlotte community to Feb. 12 is considered early, maybe it for spring break despite the health is one that was made for the sake of an opportunity to rid themselves could have been pushed to the middle guidelines encouraged by the Center preventing infections, I do not believe of the remnants of the Christmas of February, but an early spring break for Disease Control and Prevention that this strategy is good for the total infections that swept the country is a lot more productive than we think (CDC) because they either didn’t care wellness of students. The reality is and instead of giving them time for it is. It’s colder than usual around this about getting infected or believed that for both students and faculty, the the numbers to subside. This extra time, so I’m sure most of us will be that they were invincible. Because trek from the fall semester through time before the student population staying home since many spring break of this, NBC reported back in March winter break and into the spring is released before spring break gives activities aren’t available at the mo- 2020, that the number of COVID-19 semester has done little to ease the time for a greater amount of people ment. Students can rely on this break cases had approached around 60,000 intense burnout and strain that has within the university community to as a mental health week to be lazy and a few weeks after COVID-19 was resulted from our isolation. The re- be vaccinated. While most of the uni- catch up on sleep or even work extra considered a global pandemic. Now, ality is that for many students and versity community falls within group hours for a bigger check. Students can the CDC reports around 26 million professors alike, Zoom fatigue and the 3-5 of the vaccine groups, it would focus on housekeeping, catch up on cases in the , so imagine isolation that comes with the current ultimately be better for the overall assignments or start on some of their the increase in the number of people circumstances have led to an intense community if we waited to release the assignments early so that they can infected after a regular spring break. period of burnout that is unlikely to students for a break. Ultimately the have an easier rest of the semester. This will bring us farther away from go away with an early spring break. timing of this article gives no time This break being early is intended to the regular summer that we hoped In a recent editorial in the journal for any sort of change to occur. That make sure students stay safe as it is for last year. I personally think that it cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social being said, it is important that the difficult to vacation at such a time of is better to follow guidelines, give up Networking by Dr. Brenda K. Wieder- Gaber administration remember that the year. As we are more likely to stay some adventures, and prioritize the hold, the root of zoom fatigue in which while the health and safety of our home, this prepares students at UNC other important things in life now so the idiosyncrasies that are brought students is the highest priority, we Charlotte to be safe later in the month that the world can have some time about by these digital technologies for should also be vigilant of how these when we start in-person classes and the to go back to the way it was before. the brain to attempt to correct idio- decisions affect our mental health. campus is likely to be open to events syncrasies may lead to greater strain and extracurriculars. Last year, at the

Photo courtesy of Adi Cohen via Unsplash

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 5 NINER SPORTS SPORTS ROUNDUP by Miles Ruder Asst. Sports Editor

The Charlotte 49ers had a successful remains in second place in the East Tech, 5-2. This victory marks Charlotte’s between both games. Foster also led the weekend. Men’s basketball defended Division of the Conference USA, only first win against an ACC opponent since team in aces with seven. home court while the women’s tennis trailing Middle Tennessee, who Charlotte 1990 against Wake Forest. Their games against Clemson was the and volleyball teams earned big wins on will host next weekend. The 49ers swept in all three doubles last out-of-conference matchup of the the road over ACC opponents. Here’s a matchups for the first time this season. season as conference play will begin next breakdown of all of the Charlotte sports Tennis Ruxi Schech was also able to knock off the weekend when they take on Marshall on over the weekend. Hokies top player in straight sets, 6-1, 6-3. Feb. 7 and Feb. 8. Men’s tennis had a busy but successful Basketball weekend, sweeping Furman 5-0 and Volleyball Track and Field defeating Georgia State 4-2. Charlotte’s men’s basketball team The 49ers won four singles matches and Charlotte’s volleyball team followed Charlotte’s track and field team continues to improve as the season two doubles matches, which was needed to their won over Davidson up with a solid continues to shine on their season as the progresses with their two-game sweep seal the victory. showing against Clemson. Despite falling team finished with four first-place finishes over FIU. Jahmir Young led the way in Despite losing the doubles matchups in the first matchup, the 49ers responded and seven second-place finishes at the the series as he led the team in scoring in and Henry Lieberman losing in straight by winning the rematch later that day. VMI Winter Relays. The team also set both matchups, including his first career sets to Vazha Shubladze, Georgia State’s Charlotte won the opening two sets in 22 personal records over the weekend, double-double in the first with 25 points top player, the rest of the team closed the first matchup against Clemson but including four from Thomas Olesen in and 10 rebounds. out their matches to earn the four points couldn’t close the match out in the final 60m, long jump, high jump and shot put. Despite trailing at halftime in the needed to win. Olle Wallin and Ben three sets, losing 3-2. The 49ers remained The men also walked away with top second game, the 49ers defended home Wayand both lost the first set of their strong and defeated Clemson in the two spots in the men’s pole vault with first court behind the stellar defensive play in singles matches but stayed strong and won second game, 3-1. place going to Jacob Davis and runner-up the second half. the final two to earn points for Charlotte. Emani Foster, who earned C-USA going to Marcus Hesske. “For us to hold them to 26 points in the Women’s tennis had a successful Freshman of the Week last week, led the The women finished with the top three second half shows the intensity picked weekend as the Niners defeated Virginia team in kills over the weekend with 42 spots in the mile run, led by Sophie Ritter, up defensively,” said Head Coach Ron who won the event with a time of 4:56:36. Sanchez. “We were a lot more aggressive Louise Lounes earned second with a and contested their shots a lot better.” 4:58:28 time. Chandler Horton rounded Since the disappointing 61-37 loss to out the top three with a time of 5:02:25. UAB on Jan. 15, the 49ers are 4-1 with Sophomore Eve English placed first in their only loss coming to FAU in overtime. the high jump while Maci Bunting earned Meanwhile, women’s basketball played second place in the same event. Alex Wolf valiantly on the road against Western finished second in the long jump in the Kentucky but came up winless as the 49ers women’s competition with a personal fell in triple overtime at the buzzer in the record distance of 5.63m. first matchup. Octavia Jett-Wilson scored the potential game-winning shot with Looking Forward two seconds left in the third overtime, but Meral Abdelgawad drilled a three-pointer Men’s golf will be heading down to TPC at the buzzer to stun the 49ers. Sawgrass for their first tournament of the The second matchup ended the same as season while women’s soccer begins their the first, with Raneem Elgedawy hitting season against Kennesaw State. Men’s the game-winning three-pointer for the soccer will have to wait a week for their Lady Toppers, handing the 49ers back-to- season to start as their bout with Mercer back one-point losses. on Feb. 5 was canceled. Despite the two close losses, Charlotte Photo courtesy of Charlotte athletics.

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 6 though I am playing my role.” leading the team by example which has At a young age, McMillian wasn’t sold been huge for some of the younger players on the game of basketball and there was a on the team. point in time she may never have played. “Just staying in players’ ears who may by Bryson Foster A couple of months after her father asked be struggling has helped because we are Staff Writer her if she wanted to play, she made a picking them up when they get down,” decision that would put her on a path to said McMillian. “I try to encourage others greatness. She never looked back and it on the court.” has changed her life for the better. McMillian has the utmost trust in her “My dad asked me if I wanted to play team as well as the coaching staff who is basketball one day, and I originally said no always behind their players. McMillian because I was so shy,” said McMillian. “A talked about how coach Consuegra has couple of months passed, and I changed given the team her trust and has handed my mind and thought it would be fun.” the reins over to the team. She expressed McMillian’s father and mother were how important this has been. talented athletes in high school and passed “She is a mother away from home down those same genes to her. Sports because she treats us like we are her own have always been a deep fabric in the cloth kids,” said McMillian. “We can come that makes up her family. This resulted in to her about anything and it leads to us a very successful high school basketball trusting each other.” career that would lead to an offer to play This strong start has been a positive at Charlotte under head coach Cara sign for what is to come with the program. Consuegra. McMillian has dominated on the court In high school, McMillian would lead and has continued to stay positive off. the team to a 115-10 record in her four Consuegra sees that McMillian has found seasons there. She was also the main the balance between when to be laid back catalyst to get Northwest Guilford high and when to get fired up. school to their fourth North Carolina “Jada got into the huddle the other state championship game. Under her week against UAB and lit into the team,” high school coach she would learn almost said Coach Consuegra. “That is what a everything that she knows about being a leader should do is to speak up when player but most importantly a person. something has to change.” “My high school coach taught me The goals for the rest of the season is almost everything I know about the of course to win Conference USA and as game and most importantly what goes on well as punching their ticket to the NCAA outside of basketball,” said McMillian. “I tournament. McMillian though wants to learned how to win and I know what it continue to get this team better as a whole takes to and what I have to do to get us as well as taking strides for the future of t h e re .” the program. McMillian has already been At Charlotte, McMillian has started to named to the NCAA’s weekly Starting 5 in come into her own this season as she is January but is hungry for more. putting up great numbers that have led to “We are taking it one game at a time,” a numerous of wins so far this season. The said McMillian. “We are headed in a great junior has had some great performances direction.” so far such as 31 points against UAB as Looking back, McMillian has had to well as 26 points against Marshall. thank her parents for all of her success. Photo courtesy of Charlotte Athletics Head Coach Cara Consuegra has been From an early age they were her biggest Jada McMillian (15) dribbles up the court against Marshall. pushing her to step out of her comfort supports and encouragers.

BECOMING A LEADER zone into a leadership role for the team. “My parents have shaped me into being “She has embraced everything that a strong-minded person,” said McMillian. When watching a Charlotte game, her own this season and has led to her we have needed her to be,” said Coach “Positivity continues to help me today.” number 15 is all over the court and taking a leadership position for the Consuegra before the team’s WKU series. McMillian holds an unbreakable is doing whatever she can to get the team. So far this season, she is at 194 “We have challenged her to become a mindset, which is one of positivity. Even Niners a win. That number 15 is Jada points scored, which has almost tied the bigger leader and she has risen to the in the tougher moments, McMillian keeps McMillian, who has been a catalyst for number of points she had last year at challenge.” going. Charlotte’s women’s basketball team 200. McMillian has taken the challenge McMillian has a great philosophy “She is going to continue to keep after being more of a role player in her of leading the team and is excited for when it comes to finding ways to make growing,” said Coach Consuegra. “We are first two seasons. what is to come. the team better. She tries to encourage her very proud of Jada but we know that she is McMillian, a junior guard at “I am finding myself more as a player teammates who may be having a bad game going to keep pushing.” Charlotte, has started to come into on the court,” said McMillian. “I feel as by trying to uplift them. McMillian is also

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 7 A&EA&E

A look at the history of Black entertainment on the small screen

by Amir Daniels Staff Writer

In honor of Black History Month, having worked as a butler for a white African-American had stepped foot with Robert Hawkins (Kevin Michael let’s look back on seven African- family. However, his occupation is the in the small town and when the Richardson) at the community center. American shows that broke barriers target of George and Lionel’s jokes, residents learned Oprah was coming, Then Virgil’s life changes when when they premiered and are still who call him an Uncle Tom, much to they were not happy. Despite their he develops electrokinesis during popular today in syndication. the annoyance of Louise and Ward. At threats, Oprah knows change is the Big Bag and has to defend the the same time, Lionel is on the verge coming to Forsyth County, whether Dakota from evil. However, whenever of getting expelled from school after the town is ready or not. troubles arise in the Dakota, Virgil getting into a fight in the cafeteria. becomes Static Shock and with the Three years after “Sanford and Instead of taking responsibility for Static Shock help of his sidekick Gear (Richie’s Son” premiered, , his actions, Lionel considers dropping alter ego), they help restore peace. struck gold again, this time with out of school until he gets a stern Virgil Hawkins (Phil LaMarr) Created by Dwyane McDuffie, “The Jeffersons.” A spinoff of “All in lecture from Uncle Ward. is your average teenager, getting the show was the first cartoon to the Family” the show follows George through high school, hanging out with center around an African-American Jefferson (), a rich The Oprah Winfrey Show his best friend Richie Foley (James superhero. It premiered on Sept. 23, dry-cleaning owner, living in a deluxe Marsden), and helping his father, 2000, running for four seasons, 52 apartment in the Sky (The Upper On Sept. 25, 1986, Oprah Winfrey East Side of Manhattan) with his made history, becoming the first wife Louise “Weezy” Jefferson (Isabel African-American woman to host a Sanford). They are accompanied by nationally syndicated daytime talk George’s mother, Olivia Jefferson show “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” (Zara Cully), their son Lionel (first For 25 years, Oprah interviewed by Mike Evans and later Damon celebrities from NBA legend Magic Evans), and housekeeper Florence Johnson to former President Barack Johnston (Marla Gibbs). Throughout Obama. She encouraged viewers to the show, the characters experience read with her in the “Oprah’s Book racism despite the success of George’s Club” segment, and introduced business—but will stand for what is the phrase “You get a car!” during right whenever someone disrespects giveaways. When the show ended in them. “The Jeffersons” premiered 2011, it aired 4,561 episodes and won on Jan. 18, 1975, running for 11 47 Daytime Emmys. seasons and 253 episodes, which until Must-see episode: “Live from 2012, was the longest for an African- Forsyth County; Season 1” American cast. During its 25 years on the air, Must-see episode: “Lionel Cries “The Oprah Winfrey Show” touched Uncle; Season 1, Episode 7” on serious topics. Five months after Louise’s brother Uncle Ward makes its premiere, the show took a big a visit to the Deluxe Apartment in risk when it did a taping in Forsyth the Sky. Ward has a lot of knowledge County, Georgia. For 75 years, no

8 FEB. 02, 2021 NINERTIMES episodes, and won a Daytime Emmy Static. With his son missing, Sean five seconds. Created by Michael The best way to encourage Diane is for Outstanding Music Direction and must work with Robert and put his Poreys, “That’s So Raven” premiered by bringing her to the hospital on Composition in 2004. biased views behind to find Richie on Jan. 17, 2003, and was the first Rainbow’s worst day on the job. Must-see episode: “Sons of the and make amends with Virgil. Disney to have an African- Fathers; Season 1, Episode 8” American female as the lead. By the All American Virgil and Richie hang out all the That’s So Raven time it aired its final episode on Nov. time, but Virgil has never been to 10, 2007, it became the first Disney Based on the life of former NFL Richie’s house. Virgil learns the truth Raven Baxter (Raven-Symone) sitcom to reach 100 episodes. linebacker Spencer Paysinger, when he goes to Richie’s house for is navigating through life in high Must-see episode: “Country this sports drama follows the life a sleepover, and overhears Richie’s school, hanging with her best friends Cousins; Season 3, Episodes 27-28” of Spencer James (Daniel Ezra), father making a derogatory comment Chelsea Daniels (Anneliese van der While digging through a box, Raven a superstar football player who about him and African-Americans. Pol) and Eddie (Orlando Brown), and discovers a photo of her Auntie transferred from South Crenshaw The sleepover is canceled and Richie, dealing with her family; chef Victor Faye, Uncle Delroy (both played by to Beverly Hills High. Spencer fed up with his father’s bigotry, runs (Rondall Sherdian), future lawyer Symone), and cousins Vicky (Kym has dreams of winning a college away. However, he is captured by Tanya, and prankster Cory (Kyle Whitley) and Betty Jane (Giovonnie scholarship and playing in the NFL. Ebon and Shiv, two gang bangers Massey). Unlike other teenagers, Samuels) from her mother’s side of However, he will have to overcome who are looking to settle a score with Raven can see the future for only the family whom the Baxters have several obstacles, including racism, not seen or heard from in a long time. street violence and living with two When Raven and Chelsea travel families; his mother, Grace James cross-country to see her extended (Karimah Westbrook) and brother, family, they learn that they have been Dillion James (Jayln Hall) in Los at odds with Victor, who has been Angeles and the Bakers in Beverly accused of stealing their gravy boat Hills. during their last visit. Knowing the Must-see episode: “Championships; truth, Raven must find the missing Season 1, Episode 16” gravy boat to settle the feud and clear Spencer is one game away from her father’s name. leading Beverly High to its first state championship. The only team Black-ish standing in their way is South Crenshaw High, Spencer’s former Dre Johnson () is school. Extra motivated to defeat living the American dream married his former school, Spencer becomes to a beautiful wife, Rainbow Johnson aggressive in practice, and Coach (). You meet five Baker (Taye Diggs) is concerned kids, Zoey (Yara Shahidi), Andre Jr. that his emotions may get the better (Marcus Scribner), Diane (Marsai of him during the game. His worst Martin), Jack (Miles Brown), and fears come to light when Spencer Devante (Austin and Ben Gross), dishes a devastating tackle on living in a classy neighborhood. South Crenshaw quarterback Chris The premise of “Black-ish” centers (Spence Moore II), paralyzing him. around Dre trying to create a sense Devastated, Spencer leaves the field of culture in his family, who are black and is on the verge of quitting right growing up in a predominantly white when an unexpected person from his neighborhood. Dre’s attempts to past convinces him to get back on the establish a cultural identity usually field. land him in trouble, both at home and at work, but it’s for a good cause. Must-see episode: “The Nod; Season 1, Episode 3” While attending a science fair at Junior’s school, Dre walks past a Read the full story at father and gives him the nod—also known as saying “Hello” in the black NinerTimes.com community. But to Dre’s shock, Junior does not know what the nod means. To fix the problem, Dre and Pops () try to expand Junior’s social circle but with mixed results. Meanwhile, Rainbow wants to inspire Diane to become a doctor.

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 9 CICELY TYSON: MORE THAN AN ACTRESS The life of a pioneer for Black women in acting by Gabe Lapalombella Staff Writer

Cicely Tyson was a true icon in the Taylor’s film “The Help,” she received many entertainment industry. Besides being accolades being a part of the ensemble an Oscar-nominated actress and Tony cast. Unlike her early career, you could award winner, she was a true pioneer in tell that she was enjoying every role she the acting community. My first encounter selected. Two years after the accolades with her work came way back in my from “The Help” in 2011, she made a grade school years. When I first saw her grand return to the Broadway stage with TV film “The Autobiography of Miss the role in Horton Foote’s “The Trip to Jane Pittman,” it felt like more than just Bountiful” which won her the next step a history lesson. Her performance was in her numerous accolades. They started something truly cerebral that allowed with a Tony win after a 30-year absence me to understand an experience. There’s from broadway. It was a role that Tyson true honest humanity in the role that notably responded to by playing it again in reflects on the person and who she was. a Lifetime TV adaptation of the same name. “I’m very selective as I’ve been my whole While being an actress that was career about what I do. Unfortunately, consistently working, she was also active I’m not the kind of person who works in a variety of organizations. Varying only for money. It has to have some real from The Human Family institute and substance for me to do it,” she told The American Family Institute, she was in 2013. That quote says always an advocate. Being “picky” as so much about Tyson as a performer some called it in her choice of roles and expresses how against the norm she allowed her to fight for causes that she really was. This fight against the standard believed in. She was a fighter for black started back in the 1970s when women of people and individuals who had been color started getting very different roles. under-represented within the industry. She was incredibly particular about the Even as she reached the age of 96, she was roles that she chose. It was this mindset still a loud criticizer of the inadequacies that got her inducted into the Black of the industry. Appearing in a variety of Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1977. content from both film and television, she What has to be said and admired of was able to be incredibly particular about Tyson, was how she fought to her beliefs the roles she chose. In the early stages in the harsh entertainment field. She was of her career, some would consider that someone who stuck to the idea of not being to be her detriment. Thankfully, Tyson cast in a narrative box. She refused to stay persevered and became a performer who in the type of role that was being forced on was able to be selective, but always picked Black actors of the time. Throughout her roles that spoke to her. As someone who’s career, Tyson stayed in the types of roles only skimmed the legacy of this massive for what the industry calls a “character talent, I can’t wait to read her memoir actor.” Many diehard film fans knew her “Just As I Am.” Cicely Tyson was more work but it wasn’t until 2011 when she than just an actress, she was a fighter reached out to the mainstream audiences. and advocate for what she believed in. Photo of Cicely Tyson When she starred in director Tate Courtesy of Elle.com

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 10 MINI WAFFLE MADNESS Trying mini waffle maker recipes

LIFESTYLE by Emily Kottak Photos by Waffle Icon Zucchini Parmesan Recipe Lifestyle Editor Emily Kottak courtesy of Freepik by Nicholas Day via Food52.com For Christmas, I got a mini waffle a typical waffle. I have not tried this the outside to burn. I think the main ingredients, I was very pleased with maker. I love trying new recipes but recipe before with chocolate chips and reason for this problem was because the result. Unlike the banana waffle, not when they are super complex this time I did. I think the chocolate I was not used to using a mini waffle this parmesan zucchini waffle came and time consuming. However, chips made a huge difference and maker and accidentally added too out of the maker light, fluffy and waffles are one of my favorites and added an extra tinge of sweetness much batter than the maker could golden brown. I sprinkled parmesan I was determined to pin down easy, without being too sugary. I just handle. This is why I recommend 1 on the top for an extra flair and somewhat healthy and delicious sprinkled a little bit of chocolate tablespoon of batter when filling the added marinara sauce on the side to recipes to try. I tried 2 recipes: one chips since the waffle is small and I maker; try to ensure the lid can close dip the waffle in, making it almost sweet and one savory. I will be think that’s what made the waffle. all of the way. like a pizza. The sensation of biting providing recipes and directions for The problem I ran into with this Other than this solvable issue, I into a waffle and having a savory each waffle as well as my experience recipe was that the outside cooked enjoyed this waffle. It is a simple and taste fill your taste buds as opposed and the final results. much faster than the inside. While fairly healthy recipe and is great for to sweetness was strange, but the I have tried this recipe with the outside was becoming golden a quick, on the go snack or breakfast. waffle was still good. However, I do pancakes before and fairly enjoyed brown and starting to get crispy, the This recipe was definitely one I think I prefer the sweeter recipes it. However, I had a bit of a difficult inside was still uncooked and had was not used to. I’ve never made a even though I was pleasantly time with this mini waffle recipe. some liquid presence. Since there was savory waffle before and so this was surprised by this waffle. Since there is no flour, the waffle is raw egg in the waffle, I didn’t want to a first. Though I feel like I used a lot very “eggy” and not quite as fluffy as stop cooking it but I also didn’t want of dishes for this recipe and many Banana Waffles Zucchini Parmesan Ingredients Begin by peeling the banana and Ingredients Directions mashing in bowl (avoid lumps) 1 egg ½ cup shredded zucchini Whisk egg in bowl and then add Add 1 egg to mixture and whisk milk and parmesan 1 banana (preferably ripe) thoroughly 1 Egg Combine flour, salt and pepper in a ¼ tsp cinnamon Sprinkle ¼ tsp of cinnamon into ¼ cup milk small bowl. Mix well and stir into a bowl large bowl with egg mixture. Chocolate chips (optional) ¼ cup parmesan cheese Add chocolate chips and whisk into Add zucchini and toss well until mixture (optional) ½ cup flour combined tablespoon of mixture into pan Spray waffle maker and put 1 ½ tsp salt tablespoon of mixture into pan Cook 3-5 minutes or until golden ¼ tsp pepper brown Directions Cook 3-5 minutes or until golden brown Rating Rating

NINERTIMES.COM FEB. 02, 2021 11 ICED COFFEE WOES

by Emily Kottak Photo of iced coffee Lifestyle Editor courtesy of pixy.org Like many other college students, I found myself turning to coffee each morning as a source of energy. My love for coffee began last fall and I have definitely experienced some great and not so great cups of coffee. Call me picky but I like what I like and, as a fairly new coffee junkie, I’ve experienced a lot of trial and error. I’ve realized that what I typically end up falling back on is a vanilla iced coffee with a splash of almond milk. But I will say this: not all iced coffees are made equal. Let’s start with everyone’s favorite: Starbucks. I’m going to be honest, when I first started drinking coffee, I thought Starbucks was amazing. I loved all of the drink options and how they offer dairy alternatives such as almond milk which is my personal favorite. However, it was hard to figure out what to order. I never knew how many pumps of vanilla to add in order to find the balance of not too sweet and not too bitter. Starbucks also automatically adds their classic syrup to iced coffees. I found this syrup to taste quite artificial and would usually omit it from my order. Also, Starbucks is expensive so I always result to using gift cards when I have them. Now, here’s the catch. Starbucks sells iced coffee at grocery stores that you can purchase and make your own. I do really like this Starbucks iced coffee—I buy the unsweetened blonde roast. I think the reason I like this Starbucks iced coffee is because it’s not too strong and I add my own almond milk and creamer that I know I like. Don’t get me wrong, I won’t stop going to Starbucks but it’s definitely not my first choice. Moving on to another popular iced coffee choice: Dunkin’ Donuts. I was really slacking on Dunkin’ and never really gave it a chance until recently— and wow, I was missing out. Dunkin’ coffee tastes so fresh and has the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee. I tried their french vanilla iced coffee with almond milk and loved it. The other good thing about Dunkin’ is the quantity and price. A medium sized iced coffee at Dunkin’ is $2.49 and the cup is a decent size. It seems quite larger than Starbucks’ grande size, though I am not sure how many ounces each is. I think Dunkin’ coffee just tastes better and is very customizable and much easier to order. Finally, Panera coffee. Panera was one of the first places I tried iced coffee at and I think it’s delicious. I think Panera iced coffee is comparable to Dunkin’ in that the flavor is perfectly balanced and fresh and the size is decent as well. Panera coffee would probably be my second favorite iced coffee spot, second to Dunkin’ Donuts. I know iced coffee continues to become more and more popular. However, if you are picky like me, it can be difficult to pinpoint and find exactly what brand, flavor and type you like. After much trial and error I have narrowed it and really found what I love. Though any iced coffee will do if I really need it, it is important to try out different options and see what you like.

12 FEB. 02, 2021 NINERTIMES