GoldRush Inside!

Vol. 34, Issue 3 Aug. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES.COM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF April Carte [email protected] TABLE OF CONTENTS

EDITORIAL Tyler Trudeau COMMUNITY EDITOR PAGE 3 University rebrands to “Charlotte” Madison Dobrzenski NEWS EDITOR Hiral Patel OPINION EDITOR NEWS PAGE 4 Narrowing search for chief diversity officer Emily Kottak A&C EDITOR Bradley Cole SPORTS EDITOR Max Young COPY EDITOR Niyathi Sulkunte PHOTO EDITOR María Solano VIDEO EDITOR Brandon Mitchell LAYOUT EDITOR Page 6 Welcome back (for now)

ASSISTANT EDITORS OPINION Jessica Ceballos NEWS Isaac Naylor OPINION Jake Pierce A&C Bryson Foster SPORTS PAGE 7 Film Review: Shang-Chi and the legend of Isabella Perryman COPY the 10 rings Elizabeth McGuire VIDEO PAGE 8 An interview with actor, Masumi CONTRIBUTING STAFF Bryson Foster, Gabe Lapalombella, Julie Dam A&C PAGE 9 We’re back, now what? COVER PHOTOS NINER TIMES Brandon Mitchell PAGE 10 TV Review: Brooklyn nine-nine @niner_times NEWSROOM 705.687.7150 NINERTIMES.COM/STAFF TWITTER @NINER_TIMES

UPTOWN PAGE 11Keep an eye out AUDIO MARKETING DIRECTOR Megan Reid @uptownaudio [email protected] PAGE 12 Alumni Spotlight: Jazz Warren MARKETING STAFF Olivia Lawless, Stacy Fernandez, SPORTS Matthew Sumrell, Jada Terry

SANSKRIT LIT ARTS MAGAZINE @sanskrituncc

LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE STUDENT UNION Niner Times • Uptown Audio NINER MEDIA Sanskrit Literary-Arts Magazine Media Marketing • Technical • Midas READ + WATCH MORE ONLINE AT @UNCCMEDIA Magazine THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE Kelly Merges NINER MEDIA ADVISER NinerTimes.com Laurie Cuddy BUSINESS MANAGER Joshua Wood GRAPHICS & 2 AUG. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES PRODUCTION Photo by Niyathi Sulkunte UNIVERSITY REBRANDS TO “CHARLOTTE” Student reactions to the new rebranding campaign NEWSNEWS by Madison Dobrzenski News Editor Photo courtesy of Inside UNC Charlotte

On Aug. 19, 2021, UNC Charlotte Fifth-year student Aimee Rusin, said announced a rebranding and is now “the rebrand makes the name more Former Brand Logo: referred to as “Charlotte.” The formal confusing than the administration name will remain “the University of thought it was before. ‘UNCC’ is North Carolina at Charlotte” or “UNC descriptive, ‘Charlotte’ is a city. They want Charlotte,” however, the informal name to be ‘Charlotte University’ or ‘University is “Charlotte.” The rebranding also of Charlotte’ but aren’t willing to leave the promotes the “All-in C” logo to go with UNC system. The logo is fine and makes the new name. sense, even if the crown is absolutely According to the Brand Identity and cuter.” Visual Standards website, the University Jenna Boothe, a third-year student, proceeded with the rebranding because likes the rebrand. “I think the rebrand is “we [the University] thought it was time a good idea because we are already very that our brand reflected the forward- different from other UNC schools so that thinking and ground-breaking university people won’t loop us in with them,” said we are. We want to tell the UNC Boothe. Charlotte story through interesting Nicole Hite, an out-of-state graduate visuals, compelling words and a brand student, raises concerns about confusion truly representative of our students, for out-of-state students. “My out-of-state faculty and staff. A story of academic family would get confused if I just used excellence, accessibility and innovation.” ‘Charlotte’ for everything since it’s the Inside UNC Charlotte has a page name of the city. The ‘UNC’ when saying introducing the new branding called, or typing it barely takes more effort, but New Brand Logo: “Hi, we’re Charlotte. Nice to meet it prevents any confusion from someone you.”, with answers to questions about asking ‘the college or the city?’” the announcement, as well as a video On the Brand Identity and Visual displaying the branding’s logo. Standards website, a Brand Overview This rebrand came shortly after explains the importance of branding and Charlotte Athletics announced a logo its timing. Regarding timing, the website rebrand in June 2021, which uses the says “Through surveys, interviews and same “All-in C” as the recent University focus groups, we learned most of the rebrand. University’s audiences do not have a From students, there are mixed clear understanding of UNC Charlotte’s responses to the rebranding. Some brand.” The website explains that the students are concerned about confusion University has a “strategic plan” that with the name “Charlotte,” while others includes goals around increasing its think the new name separates the reputation. University already. The Niner Times talked to students and ran a survey gauging students’ feelings towards the rebranding.

NINERTIMES.COM AUG. 31, 2021 3 NARROWING SEARCH FOR CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER

National search for new chief diversity officer down to three finalists

by Jessica Ceballos Photos courtesy of Diversity and Asst. News Editor Inclusion of UNC Charlotte

UNC Charlotte narrowed the national Dr. Glover currently serves as the Times article, the application process limited resources in ways that are fair search to three finalists for the new chief Inaugural Chief Diversity Officer at the involves a packet of information that and transparent and that reflect clear diversity officer position. This search was College of William & Mary. Dr. Glover’s contains requirements and qualifications priorities. announced in April and began in May. interview was Thursday, Aug. 26. For to apply for this position. According to - Ability to create allies and build According to the Diversity and more information about Dr. Glover, the packet, these qualifications included: trusting and mutually respectful Inclusion website, the three finalists are please see her resume on the Diversity - Earning a doctorate or terminal relationships with students, Dr. Brandon Wolfe, Dr. Fanchon Glover and Inclusion website. degree administrators, faculty, staff and alumni, and Dr. Michael Jennings. The interview Dr. Jennings currently serves as Chief - Minimum of five years executive as well as with civic and professional process was conducted Aug. 25-27. In Diversity Officer at Furman University. leadership experience in higher organizations in the Charlotte region and addition, students, faculty and staff were Dr. Jennings’ interview was Friday, Aug. education or a comparable industry beyond. invited to attend the virtual forum for 27. For more information about Dr. advancing diversity, equity and inclusion - Excellent verbal and written each finalist by registration through the Jennings, please see his resume on the and fluency with the scholarship around communication skills and knowledge of Diversity and Inclusion website to meet Diversity and Inclusion website. diversity, equity and inclusion, or related group dynamics. the candidates. According to Dr. Kevin Bailey, who disciplines. - Ability to facilitate nuanced Dr. Wolfe currently serves as the serves as the search committee chair, - Understanding of scholarly conversations when convening multiple Assistant Vice President of Campus and “All applications were reviewed by the publications and academic philosophies constituencies around diversity, equity Community Engagement in the Office committee. Semifinalists participated in related to diversity, equity and inclusion. and inclusion. of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the a 90-minute Zoom interview with the - Ability to engage in data-informed - Ability to navigate political University of Alabama at Birmingham. search committee. The three finalists strategic analysis of opportunities and landscapes and respond appropriately to Dr. Wolfe’s interview was Wednesday, participated in a day-and-a-half in- challenges and to assess the effectiveness sensitive issues. Aug. 25. For more information about person interview on campus and met of D&I initiatives and programs. - Personal and professional integrity, Dr. Wolfe, please see his resume on the with a variety of stakeholders.” - Experience in financial planning, diplomacy, tact, and sound judgment. Diversity and Inclusion website. According to Lorenza Medley’s Niner budget development, and allocation of - Understanding of the elements and

Dr. Brandon Wolfe Dr. Fanchon Glover Dr. Michael Jennings

4 AUG. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES dynamics of changing Janaka Lewis, Associate by a UNC Charlotte organizational culture. Professor of English, faculty member. The - A sense of humor. Director of Women’s and faculty member started UNC Charlotte used Gender Studies Program the petition in response the Association of Cheryl Waites Spellman, “not only to the recent Governing Boards to Interim Special Assistant events [2016 Charlotte assist in the search for to the Chancellor for protests] in Charlotte, but this position. According Diversity & Inclusion and to the overarching theme to agb.org, “[AGB] Professor Social Work of a growing, diverse has been the premier Jeremiah Williams, population at UNC membership organization Secretary for Diversity, Charlotte.” According to that strengthens higher Equity, and Inclusion for the article, Dubois said education governing the Student Government in a statement to the boards and the strategic Association University, “As Chancellor, roles they serve within Laura Williams, I believe that it is my duty their institutions and Controller and responsibility to serve as chief diversity officer.” foundations.” Bailey said “The committee decided they used this search “to on who the semifinalists According to the help generate interest in should be based on the diversity and inclusion the position and identify established criteria and website, the expectation is a qualified pool of interviewed them,” Bailey for the new chief diversity candidates.” said. “Based on those officer to be appointed by By the application interviews, we identified September. deadline, Bailey said there and invited the finalists were 60 applicants in the to campus for more pool. interviews. Chancellor UNC Charlotte Gaber will make the final announced on April decision.” 23 that the search for On Sept. 8, 2020, Dr. the new chief diversity Cheryl Waites Spellman, officer would commence. Interim Special Assistant Bailey explained that to the Chancellor for the search committee Diversity and Inclusion, convened on May 7. The began a temporary search committee has position while the search 11 members, including commenced. Dr. Waites Bailey. The members Spellman will serve in the of the committee are as interim position until the follows: position has been filled. Kevin Bailey, Vice “The Diversity Chancellor for Student Officer will conduct Affairs an assessment of the Dick Beekman, Student University’s environment Body President and work with the Kim Bradley, Chief of Chancellor to chart the Staff to the Chancellor path forward,” Bailey Celeste Corpening, Staff said. “The campus should Council Chair expect a visible and Nancy Gutierrez, Dean collaborative leader who of the College of Liberal will focus on how to make Arts and Sciences Charlotte a more diverse and inclusive campus for Susan Harden, Faculty all.” Council President According to a Niner Yvette Huet, Professor Times article in 2016, of Kinesiology and former Chancellor Dubois Director of Advance initiated the position of Faculty Affairs and chief diversity officer after Diversity Office a petition was started

NINERTIMES.COM AUG. 31, 2021 5 Welcome back (for now) OPINION How the unvaccinated will take us back to virtual classes

Photo of Immunization Clinic in Student Health Center, courtesy of Student Affairs of UNC Chalotte by Hiral Patel Opinion Editor

As a senior at UNC Charlotte, we all have given up these most of my favorite memories so-called “liberties” before and are attending classes on campus, may not have even realized meeting new people, joining that it has saved the university clubs, tailgating and going for decades. Every student has to home games. After a year submitted an immunization of experiencing all of these record upon accepting should-be in-person events admission to this university, so through my laptop screen, I am why is it such a big deal now excited to be back on campus, that we are in the middle of a finally! public health disaster? However, this year’s return There is no alternative to the university might be argument to vaccinations of short-lived under the threat any kind. Unlike how older of unvaccinated students and generations lined up with zeal staff. I hate to start the year to receive polio, measles and with pessimism, but you cannot influenza shots, the Covid-19 deny the practicality behind my vaccine is mired in muddied argument. waters about “safety” when Local hospitals have met the science has already been capacity, and the number of established. There is no credible cases has been increasing to altogether. According to the compare results from the week there were 77 tests taken, and reason not to get the vaccine. the point where Mecklenburg UNC Charlotte Covid-19 of Aug. 16, Duke University, 11 of them were positive. If So be smart and don’t be County already issued a mask Dashboard, of all the students which mandates the vaccine, our testing were as systematic selfish. There is no cost to mandate. Yet, the University taking on-campus classes, only had a 0.64% positive-test rate as Duke, we would better getting the Covid-19 vaccine does not require students to 70% are vaccinated. It may be compared to UNC Charlotte, understand how our school year and keeping yourself safe along get vaccinated. Our University a majority, but that still puts which had a 14.3% positive-test will play out. It seems like Duke with the general public. needs mandatory vaccine almost a third of students at rate. will have an easier time holding enforcement that applies to risk of contracting Covid-19, However, Duke has a more classes in person while we make everyone, rather than only including faculty who have not accurate representation of their plans to transition back online. having a mask mandate. reported. Covid-positive rates due to Many critics claim that But a mask will save you, Several colleges and more rigorous campus testing. vaccine mandates are a breach right? Wrong, at least not on universities in North Carolina According to the Duke Covid of personal liberty. However, this campus since most people have implemented a vaccination Testing Tracker, the 0.64% emerging variants might soon are inconsistent with them, requirement before starting statistic was derived from the evade the effectiveness of the especially indoors. school in the fall, none of which 113 students and faculty who current vaccines. Therefore, to are from the UNC System. tested positive out of the 17,756 avoid a repeat of March 2020, Although a mask is vital Unfortunately, it has only been tests taken that week. As a the University should take to prevent transmission, it a week since the school year result, it’s easier for them to immediate action to preserve is significantly less effective started, so there is insufficient identify infected students and the safety of students even if without social distancing. So data to determine any provide them with the right students are not concerned imagine the lack of protection significant differences between tools to quarantine. about their own safety. without a vaccination universities. However, if we Here at UNC Charlotte, As UNC Charlotte students, 6 AUG. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES FILM REVIEW:

“SHANG-CHI AND THE A&C LEGEND OF THE TEN A&C RINGS”

by Gabe Lapalombella Photo courtesy of Staff Writer Marvel Studios

“An interesting corner of the MCU focused on plot and character”

Every time a movie in the Marvel franchises and even “Enter The Dragon.” but Liu gets his shining moment when winds up being the biggest strength and Cinematic Universe arrives, audiences Cretton wisely holds the camera on these paired with Katy (Awkwafina). weakness. When these characters are await them with bated breath. Being fight sequences, allowing his cast to show Liu and Awkwafina, as the friends paired allowed to sit and converse, it’s some of the the first theatrical-only MCU film since off their rigorous stunt training. These to go on this large adventure, are enjoyable best dialogue of the franchise. It’s equal 2019’s “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” fights are so well staged that they add to watch. They have a great rapport with parts humorous, emotional and engaging “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten unpredictability, which freshens up the one another which feels entirely organic in a new and creative way. However, it Rings” has many fans excited. It’s a new superhero formula. With this being the and unlike other MCU relationships. becomes dull when the characters are character that comic-book fans have been 25th film in this franchise, it’s nice to There’s not necessarily a romantic spark, forced to discuss the plot and the magical interested to see as the introduction to a see them tackling something different. but an honest and loyal friendship that entities everyone is after, especially new corner of the universe. Shang-Chi The significant motivating factor is I can’t wait to see expanded in future when we reach a third act that’s quite a (Simu Liu) is a kung-fu master forced to Shang-Chi going back to face his father installments. Having Liu portray the dry, spectacle but still hard to keep up with. confront his tragic past, including his father years after running away from home. It’s the humorous stoicism against Awkwafina as “Shang-Chi and the Legend of Ten Rings” (Tony Leung), the dangerous Ten Rings sort of dramatic angle that many films have the audience conduit gives great moments is an exciting continuation of what the organization leader. Fan or not, there are tried before. However, what makes it work of brevity. The film reminded me more of universe has in store. It delivers on setting some questions that hardcore fans and isn’t as much Liu in the titular role, but a buddy comedy even over your standard the stage for the future and even allows regulars alike are hoping it answers. Hong-Kong actor Tony Leung Chiu-Wai. superhero action movie in these moments. us to get to know these new characters. Kung-fu as a fighting medium in this As the character many have wanted to see Kung-fu is thrilling, but the subtle twists on Especially after the film, it will excite you franchise is something that has been used since the twist in Iron Man 3, he delivers the tropes of the origin story surprised me. with the possibilities of how they’ll interact in previous entries. There was the failed on the true menace that The Mandarin The screenplay, co-written by Cretton, with these fan-favorites in the future. If Netflix “Iron Fist,” but most everyone as a character can bring. When he finally Dave Callaham and Andrew Lanham, you feel comfortable going to the theater, wants to forget that even happened. comes face-to-face with Liu’s Shang, it’s focuses on character. While the action is this is also one that deserves to be seen on Director Destin Daniel Cretton crafts a the sort of dynamic and performances of exciting, you can tell that their focus is the biggest screen possible. If not, it can kung-fu film here that’s similar to classics these two which is very exciting. Leung for the audience to learn more about this still make for a fun entry into this universe such as both “The Raid” and “IP Man” steals every moment in these sequences, world. It’s because of this that the script from the comfort of your own home.

NINERTIMES.COM AUG. 31, 2021 7 AN INTERVIEW WITH ACTOR, by Gabe Lapalombella MASUMI Photo by Staff Writer Gabe Lapalombella

The privilege that comes with covering process all said and done? was very insecure with my acting skills. I beautiful and he doesn’t care about looking film festivals is interviewing the talent M: They really needed somebody. They didn’t have a lot of experience in it, but by good. He always wants to understand the behind the stories. Having covered this had been looking for the person for a the end of the movie, I felt very confident character’s raw emotion because that’s year’s Fantasia International Film Festival, I while, and I think when they found me, and empowered by my experience and where the power is. So I thought, okay, got a chance to see some exciting films. One they really liked me. So it was quick. what I could accomplish. Like Akemi, that’s what I’m going to do. Now. We’re that stood out to me was “Yakuza Princess,” G: That is very cool! So now for this she’s significantly impacted by what she going to stop thinking about how we’re which led me to interview the lead actress. Samurai revenge story, were there any gets to do at the end of the movie. So what looking at the camera and just going to MASUMI, a musician, makes the foray other kinds of classic films, different genres I’ve learned from it was to trust ourselves, focus. It was excellent advice that he gave. into the acting world with a tough-as-nails that you watched to prepare for the role? we all have it in us, but then we keep G: Was there one day on set that was performance that solidifies her place in M: Well, I watched “Dirty Hearts” doubting ourselves and our abilities. the most memorable to you, or was the acting pantheon. I had the privilege (One of the director’s earlier films) and G: One of my favorite parts of the film the whole experience just something of sitting down with her, and we discussed “13 Assassins” and things like that. I also was your dynamic with Jonathan Reese in and of itself memorable? what this new chapter means for her career. studied “Lady Snowbird.” The thing with Meyers. What was it like working with him? M: Well, yes, the whole thing was very Gabe: What was it that made me is that I didn’t grow up watching a M: Working with him was amazing. memorable for me, but there is one that you want to get into acting? lot of action films because I’m pretty That was one of the highlights of sticks out for me, for sure. And that’s the MASUMI: I never really thought sensitive to blood. So although I’m this movie for me because he was so one where I got to choreograph a fight about getting into acting. I needed to Japanese, you know, it’s challenging to supportive and so encouraging. He with my husband, and I fight with him. take a small break from music, and at watch Samurai movies for me. My father was like a brother to me, you know, G: If you had to pick another action the time, my husband suggested that I is the same way. He’s very sensitive with throughout the film, he helped me, and he star or another character who’s famous continue being creative in a different blood and stuff, and I got it from him. always made sure that I felt his support. in action films, who would you like to field. And that was acting because he G: With a character like Akemi, I couldn’t have done it without him. see Akemi go up against in a film? was an actor and he introduced me to what would you say is the biggest G: And was there anything he taught M: Well, I can’t see anybody else. acting school. So I was just going a few thing you learned from playing her? you about the acting process or just being Gabe: While I was watching, I thought months and, three months into the acting M: She deals with two cultures that an actor in general in this business? about someone like either Uma Thurman class, I got it: The “Yakuza Princess” cross Japanese and Brazilian. She has both M: There are so many things that he from “Kill Bill” or Sylvester Stallone opportunity. So that’s really how it started. elements here, she’s Japanese, which is the taught me, but one of the things that I from “Rambo.” I just think the fighting G: I didn’t know it was that quick of same as me, but I also have the American remember off the top of my head is when style Akemi has in the film, and how a process. Was it sort of like your agent experience now that I’m also a little he said to me, “MASUMI, you’re always she uses that sword, would be cool to coming to you and saying, I have this part, Americanized. We both deal with belonging going to be beautiful. Go against it.” Wow. see, go up against another classic action and I think you’d be a good fit for it? and identity issues. I even learned that I Thank you. I mean, you know, somebody so hero with their own set of artillery. M: At the time, I didn’t have a manager. M: I see what you’re saying, but I also I just had an agent. It was actually my think that she has to be Japanese. I don’t husband’s agent, and I was only there for think that part can be interchanged with a few months. I was in an acting class, and anybody else. It made it unique that she my husband called me and said, “Hey, was an authentic Japanese person. you have to come home immediately.” G: My last question is, what’s in And I was like, oh, I don’t know what’s the future for you, any upcoming going on! So then I went home, and he projects, any new songs coming out, told me that his manager had a meeting anything we can keep an eye out for? with the producer of “Yakuza Princess.” M: I am dropping a few new songs He showed the producer my self-tape with the launch of the movie and from another audition at the time. He September 3rd, and honestly, I’m waiting was not my manager, but he showed it. to see what happens. But I’m very And the producer liked my performance excited about what the future holds. with the self-tape, and he wanted to have Well, as you can see, MASUMI is a a meeting. So I did my self-tape a few rare performer who wants to expand her days after, and then I think a week or talents. Having the privilege of speaking two weeks after that, I got the audition. with her and seeing this film, I can’t wait G: So it seems like a pretty quick to see more of her on the big screen!

8 AUG. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES their office hours for extra help, or just to introduce yourself. In addition, take the time to get to know some of your classmates. Especially if you have begun taking classes specific to your major, you WE'RE BACK, will likely encounter these classmates in other courses during future semesters. This can be great for making a new friend, having a study buddy, or just branching out and getting to know someone. Finally, don’t forget your location. We are in Charlotte, after all, and have the Queen City at our fingertips. Take advantage of NOW WHAT? this! There is so much to do with the big Making the most of the semester ahead city right down the road. Take the light rail and head uptown for dinner with friends, by Emily Kottak Photo by catch a Carolina Panthers game, see a Arts and Culture Editor Leysha Caraballo play, check out the trendy shopping spots After over a year and a half of online and make the most of the semester ahead. university clubs and organizations and and so on. We are different from most education, having to stay at home, and, One important thing students should allows for the opportunity to email or universities because we have such a diverse for many, not being on UNC Charlotte’s do is to get involved on campus. I know join. Start by considering your interests, and up-and-coming city in our midst, genuinely adding to our college experience. campus, we are back to a somewhat we hear it all the time but getting involved passions, or even something different “normal” semester. It feels different and is a great way to enhance your college and new, and then look for an event or While we are still adjusting to getting is hard to get used to a campus packed experience. While many clubs and organization. With such a large school and back to a sense of normalcy, and it can be with students again, having to go to class organizations had to refrain from meetings a diverse population, you are bound to stressful, try to remember the perks and in-person and wearing clothes other and events during the height of Covid-19, find something fun and exciting to join. opportunities that await you. There is so than sweatpants. While this is a bigger there are many opportunities now to meet Next, engage in your classes. Those of us much happening on campus, in classrooms, change than we have been accustomed in person. There are constant reminders who are fortunate enough to have in-person and in the city that can make this semester to for a long time, it is exciting and full about events from various UNC Charlotte classes this semester take advantage of the spectacular. Put in the effort to find the of opportunities. Now that we are back, I social media accounts. There is also Niner opportunity. Get to know your professors, good and have fun, and you surely will. think it is a great time to take advantage of Engage which provides information on ask them questions and participate, go to

NINERTIMES.COM AUG. 31, 2021 9 TV Review: “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” Season 8, Episodes 1-4 by Julie Dam Photo courtesy of Staff Writer NBC Universal

Spoiler Alert: The following contains with being short-staffed. The duo uses spoilers for season eight, episodes one to data around crime rates and a decline of four of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” complaints during the walkout to start The eighth and final season of a major reform program that would “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” has finally started change how officers are deployed. I like airing on NBC and streaming on Hulu. that the issue of police reform continues This season is set to have ten episodes, throughout this season instead of being with two episodes being released weekly in one episode. I am curious to see where until mid-September. “Brooklyn Nine- the show takes this part of the plot. Nine” centers around a goofy detective The fourth episode focuses on Amy named Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg) and and Jake struggling with work and a group of police officers navigating their parenting. Jake tries to catch a serial killer work and personal lives at a fictional while Amy works on her pitch for the precinct of the New York City Police NYPD reform. They have no choice but Department. to bring their son Mac to work after his This show has become one of my daycare closed due to a lice outbreak. The favorite American TV shows because of show acknowledges that parenting is not its hilarious and relatable characters. It easy, especially for two working parents. also addresses important, real-life issues It is a relatable and touching episode as in a thoughtful and nuanced way, several Mac passes a milestone in front of Jake. of which we see in the first four episodes. Many viewers have been bashing The first episode of the season “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” for being too includes a time jump from June 2020 political when the show has long used to spring 2021. A lot of major events its platform to discuss complex topics happen during this time, and they hit like racial profiling, sexual assault and you all at once. First, Rosa (Stephanie trauma. Other than the first episode Beatriz) resigns from the police force feeling a bit rushed, I enjoyed the first after the death of George Floyd. Next, four episodes of the season and look the Covid-19 lockdown happens, during forward to the next few. which Amy (Melissa Fumero) has a baby boy named Mac. First responders Rating: 8.5/10 get vaccinated, and Amy returns from maternity leave after the time jump. I like how “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” does not avoid conversations about the Black Lives Matter movement, given that it is a show about a police precinct. It addresses the performative activism coming from co-workers and how those in power choose to go with the easier route and year, Captain Holt (Andre Braugher) heavier themes in the first episode. do not try to change the flawed policing reveals that he and his husband Kevin Holt and Kevin later decide to go to system. I would have liked for these (Marc Evan Jackson) have separated. couple’s therapy and try to rekindle their events to be better paced because it feels In the second episode of this season, relationship. like a lot to squeeze into a 25-minute Jake hatches a plan to get his dads back In the third episode, uniformed police episode. together. This episode is more light- officers stage a walkout, pretending to hearted and brings in more humor, After a challenging and draining all be sick, leaving Holt and Amy to deal providing an excellent contrast to the 10 AUG. 31, 2021 NINERTIMES Keep an eye out There is a lot to watch for in the 2021-2022 athletics season SPORTS by Bryson Foster Photo courtesy of Charlotte Athletics SPORTS Asst. Sports Editor

We are approaching the start of a new athletic year 3. Soccer Programs Picking Up Where They Left Off programs, and it is something to grow on in 2021. Both for Charlotte athletics. There are many things to look The men’s soccer team had an outstanding season last teams added news transfers and will return multiple forward to, so are five things that you need to watch for year and will look to build off of last year’s success during starters in hopes of reaching the NCAA tournament. It in the athletic year. this year’s campaign. The team boasted a 6-3-2 record will be an exciting year for Charlotte 49ers basketball 5. A Return to Normal and a national ranking for multiple weeks. The 49ers fans. After a year of Covid-19 affecting athletics across were also able to reach the NCAA tournament, where The men’s basketball team finished 9-16 last year after the country, it seems that we are in store for a return to they fell short to the Tarheels of North Carolina. a promising start to the season. Star Guard Jahmir Young normal. Unfortunately, Charlotte was no exception to The 49ers will return star players Patrick Hogan and returned to the team after a phenomenal campaign just the effects of Covid, as every sport was affected in some Preston Popp, who plan to lead the team back to the a year ago, and this time will take the leadership role for capacity. NCAA tournament. The team has unfinished business the team. The 49ers have also added multiple transfers Many athletic events were canceled or rescheduled and will look to make their presence felt this season. from major programs, such as Clyde Trapp Jr. from throughout the year, and fans couldn’t watch their The Charlotte women’s soccer team struggled Clemson and the 2020 Patriot League player of the year beloved 49ers take the court or field. Masks became throughout the season but was able to put it together and Austin Butler who comes from Holy Cross; they will look required for all players and coaches. Things changed get to the finals of the C-USA tournament, where they to produce at a high level this season. drastically, and the world lost normality for a short time. fell to nationally ranked Rice. The 49ers are ready to take The women’s basketball team had woes in the first part With the decline in Covid cases and the introduction the next step this season. The team is young, but veterans of the season last year but were able to get it together of the vaccine, many can return to normal. Fans will Julia Patrum and Abby Stapleton will lead the team to toward the end of the season. The 49ers will put multiple return for all 49ers sporting events, and the teams are success. teams on upset alert this year, such as North Carolina ready to welcome everyone back. It will be a year that This fall, soccer will return as Covid meant that the and Wake Forest. Jada McMillian and Octavia Jett- sees a triumphant return filled with the sights and sounds 49ers had to play all of their games in the Spring last Wilson will be significant parts of the team’s success. that makes sports what it is. season. Both programs are getting ready to retake the The expectations are high for both teams to continue 4. A Historic Season for Charlotte Football field; this time, it will be during the regular schedule. to get better and push for a tournament bid. It will be Last season, the Charlotte 49ers football program was 2. Basketball Programs to Get Better after Promising something to keep an eye on this athletic season. only able to play six games due to the spread of Covid-19. 2020 1. Charlotte Baseball to Grow into a Powerhouse The 49ers are hungry to play an entire season and get to Last season showed great promise for both basketball The Charlotte baseball team is coming off of the best the second bowl game in program history. season in program history as they had a stellar The Niners have many high-profile matchups record of 40-21. The Niners won their first- this season. The 49ers will be hosting the ever East Division title and also made the Duke Blue Devils inside the confines of Jerry NCAA tournament. The team is only going Richardson Stadium. The team will also travel to to get better and is hungry to avenge their Champaign, IL, to face the Illinois Fighting Illini tournament loss. in a pivotal matchup. The 49ers bats were hot all of last year. The The 49ers also have a competitive conference team scored 417 runs last season, and it had slate with multiple games televised on CBS to do with the long ball as Charlotte hit a Sports Network. The team is excited to compete total of 66 home runs. The Niners will look to for the conference title against favorites Florida continue the trend this season. Atlantic and Marshall, which will travel to Charlotte returns two of the three players face the 49ers in Charlotte this season. The who had a batting average over .300. Austin Niners have a shot at getting to their first-ever Knight and Will Butcher will look to be key Conference USA (C-USA) championship game. players in the team’s growth. The 49ers will Head Coach Will Healy is excited to see what be poised to return to form, and the goal is to heights the program can reach this season as the reach the College World Series. team continues to make a name for itself. This season could be a great one for the 49ers as they look to bounce back after last year

NINERTIMES.COM AUG. 31, 2021 11 closely with the industry “My long-term goal is to be Alumni Spotlight: communications team. He a communications executive is writing press releases, in professional sports,” said coordinating driver appearances Warren. “Most importantly, I and liaising between different want to be a family man that entities in the sport. In is full of faith. I want to be the addition, Warren has continued best person that I can be.” to be involved in the art of After the internship, Warren Jazz Warren storytelling by highlighting pit earned a full-time position as crew members in other news Communications Coordinator Jazz Warren, a 49er alum, has set the markets. with NASCAR. “One of my biggest Warren continues to Gold Standard in NASCAR internship program responsibilities is pitching represent his former school which guys need to be with all the accomplishments by Bryson Foster highlighted by getting their he has racked up. He is proud Photo courtesy of Jazz Warren Asst. Sports Editor stories out into those major of where he has come from and media outlets,” said Warren. “It is excited to see where life takes Jazz Warren is on his way Warren. “I applied, and they everyday life. varies from week to week, but I him. The future is bright for to accomplish his dream of accepted me then the rest was “I learned to love doing it.” Jazz Warren. working in sports. Warren, who h i s t or y.” compartmentalize passion Even though Warren has “Going to Charlotte taught is an alumnus of Charlotte, is At Charlotte, Warren when it comes to being a true accomplished many things, he me so much about being in currently a communications first was involved with professional,” said Warren. “You is looking toward the future. He the real world, and it gave me intern working with NASCAR. RadioFreeCharlotte. He was can’t let your passion overtake feels that his faith has gotten a dose of what society is,” said He is fueled by a love of sport able to give his opinion on the your professionalism but rather him far and that he wouldn’t Warren. “The motto that the but, most importantly, his faith. happens within the game of let it drive it.” have been able to get where he university had when I attended Warren graduated from basketball. One of Warren’s Warren continued to find a is today without it. He wants to was about staking your claim, Charlotte in 2015 and has been peers on the show approached way to be around sports and continue to better himself in a and that has been my mindset on a unique path to his own him about being a sportswriter started another internship with professional and social space wherever I have been.” version of stardom. Warren for the Niner Times, and at first, Charlotte Motor Speedway. in the coming is the son of parents who he was unsure if he could do He worked NHRA events, years. were involved in athletics as it, but he took a chance, and it dirt races and NASCAR races his father played in the NFL became his passion. which allowed him to soak up while his mother was a track “I was not involved with the sport. Warren enjoyed his coach at Chapel Hill for seven writing in any capacity growing time at the track but received seasons. Even though he works up, but I can honestly say that encouragement from his my time with higher-ups to work for Nascar. Niner Media, “I was encouraged by in general, was Deborah Norman of CMS to “One of my biggest amazing,” said apply for the Nascar internship, responsibilities is pitching Warren. “I and it didn’t cross my mind to which guys need to be feel that pure do it,” said Warren. “I wanted journalism is to learn more about it and be a highlighted by getting their dying, and as professional in every aspect.” stories out into those major I got older, I Warren got his start with media outlets,” said Warren. “It developed a NASCAR in the diversity passion for varies from week to week, but I internship program. The bringing it back.” program seeks diverse love doing it.” Warren’s hard undergraduate as well as work with the graduate students to contribute paper would to the complex motorsports pay off, and he workforce. It creates the next for NASCAR, he didn’t grow had a chance to be an intern for generation of professionals in up as a motorsports fan but the NBA’s all-star weekend in the world of NASCAR. knew he wanted to be a part of Charlotte. Surrounded by some Currently, Warren is all over something bigger. of his childhood heroes, he the place as he just finished a “I didn’t know anything showed off his knowledge of the communications internship about NASCAR going into it, game. Warren took many things and is living the dream. He is but I wanted to be a sponge by away from the opportunity and involved in many things for learning about everything,” said still implements them in his Nascar, but he works most

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