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Whistleblower Field

Following the conviction of Georgia State top donor Parker H. Petit, Marc Cohodes, a whistleblower that helped bring Petit to justice, is willing to donate $100,000 to jumpstart a discussion between Geor- gia State and the University System of Georgia to rename Parker H. Petit Field at Center Parc Stadium.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN LICHTWARDT

@gsusignal georgiastatesignal.com BLOTTER FEB. 12 FEB. 18 Campus carry law Not so happy hour I never got my stimulus doesn’t apply to The Georgia State check last year... housing. EXECUTIVE University Police At the College of Law, a The Georgia State PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Department arrested Georgia State student was University Police Brooklyn Valera two non-Georgia State a victim of financial fraud [email protected] Department arrested a MANAGING EDITOR offenders for a liquor at 11:45 a.m. Georgia State student Sharayah Davis law violation, disorderly for carrying a weapon [email protected] MARKETING MANAGER conduct, obstruction and Is the weekend here on school property at Franky Huang fighting at 5:51 p.m. at yet? 11:02 p.m at Greek [email protected] 101 Piedmont Ave. At 4:09 p.m. at the Housing. EDITORIAL Urban Life Building, the NEWS EDITOR FEB. 16 Georgia State University Vacant FEB. 19 [email protected] Adventure time Police Department If I can’t have it, no ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR At 5:51 p.m., the arrested a non-Georgia one can! Vacant OPINIONS EDITOR Georgia State State offender for At Petit Science Park, Kenneth Lockett III University Police obstruction, disorderly a Georgia State student [email protected] Department arrested conduct, trespassing and ASSOCIATE OPINIONS EDITOR was a victim of theft and Callie McNorton a non-Georgia State a false fire alarm. criminal property damage ARTS & LIVING EDITOR offender for trespassing at 10:15 a.m. The case is Jada Jones [email protected] at University Commons. still active. ASSOCIATE ARTS & LIVING EDITOR The police department Isa Cordona exceptionally cleared SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Freedman the case. [email protected] ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR Erik Indrisano COPY EDITOR Miro Georgiev [email protected] PRODUCTION PRODUCTION EDITOR S LOCAL NATIONAL GLOBAL Evan Koenigs [email protected] ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION EDITOR F Freedom Park home to tree Trump acquitted in historic Human rights groups call for Myah Anglin

PHOTOGRAPHY E tribute in honor of John Lewis second impeachment trial release of Yemeni journalist PHOTO EDITOR Matt Siciliano-Salazar I [email protected] Freedom Park Conservancy, Trees Atlanta Monday, ABC News reported that attorney According to CNN on Monday, Adel ASSOCIATE PHOTO EDITOR and The National Center for Civil and R general nominee Merrick Garland said al-Hasani was detained by the Southern Harry Wyman Human Rights spent three days planting trees he plans to focus on the attack on the U.S. Transitional Council, a UAE-backed DIGITAL surrounding John Lewis Plaza, according DIGITAL EDITOR B Capitol when he takes office. He compared secessionist group that controls parts of Caitlin Whisby to Fox 5 Atlanta. The project was unveiled [email protected] the atmosphere right now to that of the southern Yemen. The 35-year-old journalist ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR on Feb. 20, the eve of the late congressman’s Vacant Oklahoma City bomber investigation. Only, was assisting in the release of two European S birthday. Organizers plan to continue VIDEO EDITOR Andre Walker the project with over 300 blooming trees, he believes the current period of time is more journalists when he was arrested. Hasani has [email protected] flowering shrubs and a field of daffodils. Plants dangerous and aggressive. Garland said the been in STC custody for over five months ASSOCIATE VIDEO EDITOR Vacant W that will bloom in February were chosen for Jan. 6 attack was the most “heinous attack on and the human rights groups are calling for PODCAST EDITOR the annual blooming event to celebrate and his release.

E a democratic process” and he will pursue all Timo Clark honor Lewis. THE SIGNAL BUREAUS leads of the investigation. ALPHARETTA BUREAU CHIEF

Vacant N CLARKSTON BUREAU CHIEF Chris Bryant DECATUR BUREAU CHIEF Vacant DUNWOODY BUREAU CHIEF Vacant NEWTON BUREAU CHIEF Vacant ADVERTISING STUDENT MEDIA ADVISER Bryce McNeil [email protected] BUSINESS COORDINATOR Wakesha Henley [email protected] PERIMETER STUDENT MEDIA ADVISER Zoana Price [email protected] ADVERTISING The deadline for all advertising is 5 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the desired issue of publication. Ads must be print- ready and in PDF format; files must be delivered via e-mail at [email protected]. Please visit our website at www.georgiastatesignal. com/advertise for more information, including rates and payment methods. MISSION STATEMENT The Signal shall provide, in a fair and accurate manner, news of interest and significance to the Georgia State community and serve as a forum for the expression of ideas of members of that community. Furthermore, The Signal shall provide an opportunity for students to pursue experience within a professional newspaper environment. The Signal shall also provide truthful and ethical advertising of interest to the Georgia State community. COVERAGE REQUESTS Requests for coverage and tips should be subwmitted to the Editor in Chief and/or the relevant section editor. SUBMIT LETTER TO EDITOR Letters must be submitted to the Editor in Chief via e-mail and must include the text of the letter in the body of the message. Letters should be 400-500 words maximum. The Signal will allow longer letters, but only in rare circumstances. Letters must include the full name(s) of the writer(s) and include their year and major. If the writer is a faculty member, they must include their title and department. Letters will be fact-checked prior to publication. The writer may be obligated to make changes to the letter for publication. Letters will be edited for grammar, clarity, length, factual accuracy and adherence to The Signal’s policy. The Signal reserves the right to modify and/ or reject letters at the discretion of the editorial staff. DISCLAIMER Opinions and Letters to the Editor expressed in The Signal are the opinions of the writers and readers. It does not reflect the opinions of The Signal. OFFICE INFORMATION The Signal Student Center West, Suite 250 P.O. Box 3968 Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-413-1620 Fax: 404-413-162 NEWS February 23, 2021 WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/NEWS

MARC COHODES, A KEY WHISTLEBLOWER IN PARKER H. PETIT’S CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION, ANNOUNCES A $100,000 DONATION TO GEORGIA STATE TO RENAME THE FOOTBALL FIELD. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN LICHTWARDT $100,000 donation to rename Parker H. Petit Field Following Petit’s conviction, whistleblower Marc Cohodes announces donation to begin discussion

BROOKLYN VALERA Editor-in-Chief

he Signal has been reporting on Georgia State with a surplus of product. Petit gifted $5 million worth of Board of Regents about renaming the field. alumnus and top donor Parker H. Petit’s criminal the potentially fraudulent stocks to Georgia State in 2018. Associate Vice Chancellor of Communications Lance T activity and investigation since 2018. The case ended in a $1.5 million settlement paid to the SEC. Wallace delivered an official response to The Signal, almost Read the related articles found at georgiastatesignal.com for The attempt to inflate MiMedx’s revenue didn’t go identical to the 2018 and 2019 statements. a chronological recap of the investigation’s timeline. unnoticed by Cohodes. According to The Wall Street “The Board is aware of Parker H. Petit’s securities fraud • July 2018, Parker Petit resigns from MiMedx amid Journal, Petit complained to former senator Johnny Isakson conviction in the Southern District of New York and will federal investigation about Cohodes before Petit’s criminal investigation. Later, continue to closely monitor the situation,” the response • August 2018, Petit gifts potentially inflated stocks to Cohodes received a visit from two FBI agents telling him to states. Georgia State stop tweeting about Petit or “there would be consequences.” Wallace proceeded to share a piece of the 7.4.1 policy that • September 2018, Petit officially removed from MiMedx “Georgia State is an institution that teaches young people states, “Namings authorized by the Board of Regents shall board of directors how to get through life, and having a convicted criminal’s not be modified without approval of the Board. If a situation • October 2018, Georgia State and USG do not plan to name on the football field is a disgrace,” Cohodes said. occurs that may warrant the removal of a name that was rename Parker H. Petit Field “And as much as they would like to sweep it under the rug, previously approved by the Board of Regents, the decision • December 2019, Petit indicted on accounting fraud I’m showing up with a significant donation to rename the whether to remove the name lies in the sole discretion of the charges field ‘Whistleblower Field’ in honor of the brave MiMedx Board in consultation with the Chancellor.” • November 2020, Petit convicted employees who turned this criminal in.” It is considered an honor for the USG to name something Marc Cohodes, a notorious short-seller who helped shine Cohodes is neither a Georgia State alumnus nor a Georgia after an individual or organization because it usually follows a light on Georgia State alumnus and top donor Parker H. resident. Nevertheless, he disagrees with the message it a philanthropic act that displays kindness and selflessness to Petit’s criminal activity, is now calling to remove Petit’s name sends to students if the name stays on the field. a community, a distinction now tarnished by Petit. from Georgia State’s football field. “I have no affiliation with the school. But I cannot stand Cohodes said he is afraid that when people Google In an interview with The Signal, Cohodes announced this. So I’m showing up with $100,000,” he said. “It sets a the name Parker H. Petit after seeing the name on the he is willing to donate $100,000 to the university to begin bad example to the students. It sets a bad example to the field, it will show that the school stands for and promotes the discussion. He wants the University System of Georgia community. And it sends the message that crime pays, and criminality. Instead, he believes that if the field is renamed to rename the football field after the whistleblowers who crime shouldn’t pay.” brought Petit to justice. Cohodes challenges others to pitch in and add on to the “Whistleblower Field,” people will see the story and know Today, the state of New York will sentence Petit following donation to encourage the beginning of a discussion. Georgia State stood with those that chose to do the right his Nov. 19 conviction. In January, he paid $750,000 to a Although Petit was convicted and his sentencing is today, thing. lobbying firm to secure a presidential pardon from former there hasn’t been a discussion to rename the field. “They’ll say, ‘Hey, it’s a noble thing. Maybe I’ll go work for President Donald Trump before he left office. However, the The power to rename structures within the USG lies solely the FBI. Or maybe I’ll work in criminal fraud detection, or attempt was unsuccessful. in the hands of the chancellor, the USG chief administrative maybe I’ll teach an ethics class,’” Cohodes said. The 81-year-old former chief executive officer of the officer and the Board of Regents, according to policy 7.4.1 of Cohodes suggested that Georgia State use his donation biopharmaceutical company MiMedx, pleaded guilty to the Board of Regents Policy Manual. to teach a business ethics class on how to do the right thing one count of securities fraud a year after employees came “All proposed namings shall be submitted to the USG and avoid repeating Petit’s mistakes. forward about illegal activity. The charge carries a maximum Chief Administrative Officer who shall distribute the After further discussion, Cohodes decided to add to his of 20 years in prison. proposal for integrated review and, in conjunction with the initial offer. In an additional civil suit, the Securities and Exchange Chancellor, submit the request to the Board of Regents for “I’m friends with the lead singer of Collective Soul. And Commission accused MiMedx and Petit of inflating the approval,” the policy states. when the field is renamed, I will underwrite a Collective company’s stocks using “channel stuffing.” Channel stuffing According to Andrea Jones, Georgia State’s associate Soul concert for all of the students at Georgia State at the is the act of inflating sales and earnings by sending retailers vice president for Public Relations and Marketing field,” he said. “Collective Soul will be there playing a free more product than is in actual demand, leaving the retailer Communications, the university has not approached the concert for the students at Georgia State.” TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 NEWS 4

Georgia State junior anthropology major and National Guard specialist Brycen J. Garland was among the guardsmen stationed in Washington, D.C., during the inauguration. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BRYCEN J. GARLAND Student among 25,600 guardsmen on Inauguration Day Brycen J. Garland shares experience in D.C. and thoughts on Capitol riots

SHARAYAH DAVIS Managing Editor

fter the Jan. 6 riots on Capitol Hill, the standard semiautomatic and automatic weapon used the U.S. Capitol building. He thought the riot might military organized 25,600 guardsmen from in the army, and pistols in case the opposing party happen since he knew people attending the protests A across the U.S. and its territories to secure got dangerous. and people talking about occupying the Capitol to President Biden’s inauguration on Jan. 20. “The only circumstances that we were instructed overturn the election results. Georgia State junior anthropology major and to use lethal force is if we knew that we or somebody “I mean, I know that Trump and his kids and Rudy National Guard specialist Brycen J. Garland was else might die or get seriously injured, like if Giuliani and all these other guys that they had, were among the guardsmen stationed in Washington, somebody had a bomb, if somebody had a knife or if there with their rhetoric saying that we need to fight, D.C., during the inauguration. somebody had a gun,” Garland said. “In a situation [using] kind of war talk,” Garland said. “But you just On the night of Jan. 6, Garland received word like that, you have to be very wise, and you have to don’t expect people to do that.” from his team leader that his squad would use good judgment.” After former President Trump’s acquittal in his be in Washington, D.C., for President Biden’s However, Garland said that he knew he could second impeachment trial on Feb. 13, President inauguration. He had just returned from being never be fully prepared to use such measures and Biden said that the results showed that “democracy deployed in Germany over the fall semester, which that the thought of shooting an American citizen made him take the full semester off school. was “very sad” and “very scary.” is fragile.” Reflecting on the moment he saw the news “I was really upset because of what happened “I don’t care how long you’ve been in the military. on Jan. 6, Garland agreed with Biden’s statement because it was so bad, but I was upset also because I There’s nothing that really prepares you for that,” and said that the attack on the Capitol showed “how didn’t want to go,” Garland said. Garland said. fragile it can actually get.” The rest of Garland’s squad also did not want to The squad arrived in D.C. at 4 a.m.; while he was “You don’t ever expect that to happen to America disrupt their lives by going to D.C. The amount of shaving, Garland’s platoon leader Lieutenant Thomas because we’re the bastion, the guardians of time they would have to spend there was uncertain, asked him if he ever thought he would be in D.C. on democracy and democratic values,” Garland said. ranging from days to months away from family, Inauguration Day to ensure a peaceful transition of “So it was really surreal. It was unbelievable.” friends, school and work. power. After the recent political turmoil and speaking “There are other people that have jobs and lives, “I said, ‘Hell, no.’ I did not expect it. It was a to his peers at Georgia State, family and friends, and they missed a paycheck by having to go up surprise to everybody all the way from the top to the Garland believes that the country can avoid there,” Garland said. “Some of the guys were kind of bottom,” Garland said. further division by finding peace to discuss issues excited because they’d never been in D.C., but I tried To Garland’s relief, no violence broke out at respectfully. to explain to them that it’s much nicer under better President Biden’s inauguration, and his squad spent “The people who were storming the Capitol on their week and a half in D.C. patrolling, waiting and circumstances.” Jan. 6 weren’t willing to [talk],” Garland said. “If you After the Capitol police recovered several firearms, making sure the area was secure. don’t do that, if you don’t have peace and if you don’t pipe bombs and Molotov cocktails following He described the experience as “miserable” have people calming down and listening to each the events on Jan. 6 and the Proud Boys made because of the freezing temperatures and rainy other, this is what happens.” threats to disrupt President Biden’s inauguration, weather they faced. His squad was so cold and tired Garland’s squad was unsure of the danger that they that they slept in the House of Representatives one Garland says that the Biden administration’s might face. In Garland’s words, the military called time and in the United States Botanic Gardens. primary goal should be to pursue justice but that the “enough people to invade a small country” to the “We were all complaining and swearing like sailors country cannot have justice until it has peace. After inauguration to prepare for any possible violence. because it was so bad,” Garland said. “But when we his time in D.C., he reflected on his time with the Before his squad left for Washington, D.C., they weren’t doing that, we were resting in some pretty National Guard and the military’s future. tried to process the situation’s gravity and the historic places.” “If anybody’s thinking about joining the military, potential need to use lethal force. Their instructions Garland was at home when he heard the news they need to think some more,” Garland said. “I need were to use equal force, and they brought M4s, the about the riotous “Save America Rally” storming to think some more about it, especially right now.” TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 THE SIGNAL 5 Local tutor retires after 24 years of work Mona Haddad says the pandemic led to her retirement

LEAH LI Staff Reporter he Georgia State In addition to teaching, Learning and Haddad has held theatrical T Tutoring Center has roles back in Lebanon and a offered free tutoring services YMCA in Boston, including to students and community in two Shakespearian plays, members across the five “The Stronger” by August Georgia State Perimeter Strindberg and “The Browning campuses for more than 30 Version” by Terence Rattigan. years. ​ She also taught classical ballet After Georgia State and in Lebanon from 1967 until Georgia Perimeter College her relocation to the U.S. in consolidated in 2015, the 1987. Learning and Tutoring She relocated in 1987 to Center (LTC) continues to help Georgia State students reunite with her children and and community members, husband, who were studying operating as a division of the and working in the U.S. at the Georgia State Office of Student time. Success. After moving to Atlanta, “LTC tutors are trained Haddad worked as a part- Baptist Collegiate Ministries has operated on the and certified according to time mathematics instructor Georgia State Downtown campus since the 1960s PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL guidelines set by the College from 1997 to 2005 at Georgia Reading and Learning Perimeter College. She also Association (CRLA) and are tutored math there until her Baptist Student Ministries adapts a talented team of high- retirement. performing [Georgia State] In addition to teaching, she students, professional tutors is also an established author. to safety protocols and graduate assistants,” the She co-authored textbooks Student Success Programs at for the institutions where BCM takes to social media to promote virtual events Georgia State website states. she taught. Mendoza also However, the pandemic mentioned that she published a LEILA DAVIDSON Staff Reporter brought unprecedented poetry book series, advertised challenges to the learning OVID-19 affected many Teresa Royall, a campus minister at from promoting their organization as “young or young at heart.” student organizations on BCM, said. with paper flyers on campus to center. Ms. Mona Haddad, one Moreover, Mendoza said of their longest-serving tutors C campus, leading to less Along with in-person events, social media and email. that Haddad helped in the at the Dunwoody location, is student engagement and fewer event BCM also offers online events for They offer a Friendship Families Writers’ Circle, a group that now retiring after her 24 years opportunities. Many organizations program for international students meets twice a month in the of service. converted to online meetings and to meet, get close with American The Dunwoody Learning bonus room of the Dunwoody events. Though the Zoom meetings location LTC to “share literary families and share meals in Center transitioned to virtual cannot compare to in-person ones, their homes. They also allow critiques and help one another campus organizations still strive to services after the initial international students to visit places shutdown in March 2020. become ready for publication.” increase student involvement. Many churches outside of Atlanta. Haddad prefers to work with “The pandemic has robbed Since the 1960s, the Baptist Last semester, BCM made students in person, so she has us of her service and the Collegiate Ministries (BCM) at are not meeting opportunity to adequately “ cards for the elderly community always hoped that everything Georgia State continues to allow in person yet, would return to normal soon celebrate Ms. Mona’s students to get involved on campus. in assisted living. This semester to continue teaching in the retirement because the tutors Specifically, they are reaching out so our weekly they plan on making care bags for office. have been operating remotely,” to freshmen to help them meet new frontline workers in hospitals. “She has been a treasured Mendoza said. people during trying times. worship gives a In March, BCM is hosting a member of our team and has Mendoza also said that BCM has in-person events “Spring Break Mission Trip” at quite an interesting life story if COVID-19 precautions through the semester, such as a safe, in-person Camp Pinnacle in Clayton County, as a former dancer, teacher, permit, Haddad plans weekly worship service called opportunity which will allow members to help actress and published author,” to visit the LTC for their “Ignite” on Tuesday nights, men and prepare the camp for the upcoming Janelle Mendoza-Guerra, annual celebrations for Tutor women’s nights on Thursday nights, for students summer. The past spring mission the writing supervisor of the Appreciation Week in October. Mr. BCM fundraising events, spring Dunwoody Learning Center, trip BCM hosted was in the Golden She wants to spend more time retreats and weekly Bible studies. to worship said. Isles, where they served the local reading after her retirement. BCM meets and hosts many of Haddad has extensive community. Royall said that the According to the website, their events in the first Coca-Cola together. teaching experience. She BCM helps students feel more the LTC offered walk-in Bottling Company building on earned her Bachelor’s in connected during the pandemic, tutoring six days a week before Edgewood Avenue, neighboring Teaching in 1967 and a — TERESA ROYALL offering friends and a community the COVID-19 pandemic the University Lofts. Since the Master’s in Education in 1971 for those feeling lonely. struck, but now all its tutoring pandemic, BCM has adapted its BCM Campus Minister from the American University “Many churches are not meeting of Beirut in Lebanon. services are virtual. Their meetings to meet safety protocols schedule changed to 9 a.m. to for COVID-19, requiring masks, students, including online ”Bible in person yet, so our weekly worship She spent 20 years teaching gives a safe, in-person opportunity foreign languages, including 9 p.m. on weekdays and 2 p.m. social distancing and temperature studies and live-streamed worship for students to worship together,” French, Arabic and English, to 6 p.m. on weekends. checks services on Facebook with virtual at various middle and high The LTC still offers one- “We have a check-in system in prayer groups afterward. Royall said. schools in Lebanon. Then, on-one tutoring in many case we need to do contact tracing, BCM keeps up student BCM will continue to serve she taught math at the different courses, including we are not having food served engagement on campus by taking students throughout the pandemic by American University of math, science, English and and we are limiting the amount of advantage of the switch to online offering them ways to not only grow Beirut for 14 years. world languages. people in the building at one time,” and virtual learning. They switched relationally but to grow spiritually. OPINIONS February 23, 2021 WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/OPINIONS WomenLead is an excellent program. Here’s why Georgia State programs are worth giving a shot

CALLIE MCNORTON Associate Opinions Editor e are always interview, students can have deleting a one-on-one consultation W random with an executive, allowing university emails about for connections in the programs, promotions and professional world. During surveys. However, taking class time, guest speakers a chance on those not-so- talk about their experiences random programs may be and open up a conversation beneficial to your college to understand different experience. WomenLead leadership roles. found its way to my inbox, From the retired chief and I am better for it. financial officer of Coca- A program that speaks Cola to the Carter Center’s for itself, WomenLead is former CEO, students hear empowering women to from real women leaders. lead. If you are still skeptical “We have this wide of university programs, here group of people who are four reasons why this support WomenLead one is worth it. from the wider Atlanta community and even Learning to be a regionally, nationally and Leader internationally,” Alexander WomenLead is a said. “You become a part of semester-long program ILLUSTRATION BY ROE GASSETT | THE SIGNAL this community. You have a with courses in business, network of people cheering policy and politics, science, you on.” entrepreneurship and Reaction memes perpetuate racial innovation. Through these Important different pathways, women Conversations can equip themselves for Even though the courses stereotypes online their field and aspire for differ in concentration, the leadership roles. core curriculum sets up all According to a Robinson WomenLead students to Your NeNe Leakes reaction GIFS are digital blackface College of Business Impact have essential conversations Report, 44% were confident in the classroom. Before and KENNETH LOCKETT III Opinions Editor in their leadership skills after class time, students before joining WomenLead, reflect on different readings on’t judge a book by its is commonly thought of as traditional Take the Mammy, a strong, and 90% felt confident after and concepts, such as cover” is a memorable blackface. Non-Black actors darken independent, typically single Black completing the program. “The Moment of Lift” by “Dchildhood lesson for all their skin with cork and act on stage in woman who doesn’t make back-talk, “We see a lot of students of us. The proverb is a casual way of Black caricatures. also known as an “independent Black who report that their Melinda Gates or articles saying ignore the stereotypes and judge woman who don’t need no man.” Or take public speaking skills on code-switching. The fact that there is a course a person by themselves. Well, have you a look at Jim Crow’s character, typically have improved, that their ever stopped to think about how you confidence has improved. called WomenLead should a foolish, unintelligent Black man who’s indicate a societal problem, are pushing common stereotypes about continuously confused. Sort of like that The class gives students a lot Black people in your everyday lives? and the class discusses it. meme of Nick Young looking confused. of opportunities to practice,” Reaction GIFs and memes are a From sexism and racism But have you Now I am not saying that people using policy and politics professor common way we express ourselves on Charlotte Alexander said. to confidence and self- social media platforms. ever thought the meme are trying it say, ‘look at this worth, this course provides There is a GIF for everything. dumb Black man,’ but I am saying that Free Supplies students with an outlet to Being dragged on Twitter for your “ there is an underlying understanding have tough conversations, about how While this may not be crazy hot take? Use the NeNe Leakes behind it that many don’t realize. a stand-out reason to join, even though it can be GIF “I said what I said” from “The Real those memes You can look no further than the being provided with free intimidating. With only a Housewives of Atlanta.” legendary Mariah Carey. She’s rich, textbooks is a game-changer 25 -person class and great Are you trying to seem unbothered portray talented and pretty and light-skinned. for students deciding what professors, WomenLead is a but still bothered by a situation? Use the She is effortlessly shady, and she reminds course to take. During the place to open up. GIF of HBIC Tiffany Pollard sitting in a Black people, you exactly who she is. Almost like the 2018-19 academic year, “WomenLead has helped bed with sunglasses on. Mulatto who can pass for either Black or students spent an average of me feel more confident But have you ever thought about how namely Black white and is typically seen as wealthy and $415 on course material. and find my self-love,” those memes portray Black people, uppity. For the 2021 spring former WomenLead namely Black women and feminine women and As you can see, what is being used semester, WomenLead student Angela Praseuth Black men? as a calm and casual meme, expressing provided students with said. “The class provides a lot of opportunities for This robbery of Black culture during feminine strength, confusion or shadiness, a journal, a book, a the information age got the term “digital reflection and exposes us to have real-world connections to the bag, a Herrmann Brain blackface” started. According to Felice successful women and new Black men? stereotyping of Black people and Black Dominance Instrument León, “Digital blackface is when non- assessment and scholarship perspectives.” culture. Everyone should continue to use Black folks attempt to re-create what opportunities, not WomenLead is they perceive to be Blackness online. these memes and GIFs with care. to mention amazing underrated and Similar to its predecessor, which started — KENNETH LOCKETT III Memes and GIFs are a quick, easy conversations from experts underappreciated. It is an with minstrel shows of the mid-1800s and fun way to offload our emotions on in their fields. excellent opportunity to and 1900s, digital blackface is meant to Opinions Editor the internet. But while we are unloading grow and learn how to be a entertain and reinforces harmful and those emotions, let’s take a moment to Networking leader. If you see an email Those very same caricatures” can be lasting stereotypes.” remember why almost every meme Opportunities from the program in your The blackface minstrel show is what seen in the digital age. Think I’m joking? under “unbothered” is of a Black woman. Through an engagement inbox, give it a chance. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 OPINIONS 7 A historical look into the ‘revolution’ Daniel Kaluuya stars in ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’

DORIAN ROSENBURG Staff Columnist war between relationship with fellow Black people and party member and friend Alaw enforcement William O’Neil (LaKeith consummates in the Stanfield), we see that bloodshed of innocent the real issue that broke bystanders fighting for a apart the Black Panther cause. The Black Panther Party stemmed from its Party organized and own members’ misgivings echoed throughout history with…. in the film “Judas and the William O’Neil’s Black Messiah” as the rise character is fascinating and fall of party leader because the FBI offered Fred Hampton, played him a plea deal to infiltrate by Daniel Kaluuya, are the Black Panther Party brought to life on the big and gather intelligence on screen. Chairman Fred Hampton. The Black Panthers His character embodies ILLUSTRATION BY MYAH ANGLIN | THE SIGNAL have received a very the awareness of Black- troubling representation on-Black crime within the by the media since their civil rights movement and The education system continues to formation in 1966. Most its devastating effects on Americans associate them the Black community. hold students back with terrorist-style tactics The film then touches that exacerbated violence on other Black political Account for the individuality of the students in education and racial separatism. This parties within the city ABIR ODEH Staff Columnist understanding is then fighting for the same cause. erriam-Webster English However, mandating a level playing commonly teach British literature, with opposed by Dr. Martin However, each of these dictionary defines field also holds some students back. authors such as William Shakespeare, Luther King Jr’s standard groups was separated M standardization as Students with the aptitude to go the Brontë sisters and Charles Dickens. depiction as a peaceful by violence and hatred “conformity with a standard especially beyond the standards assigned are held The problem here is that most civil rights activist and toward each other. The film to assure consistency and regularity.” back because they are required to move students hate to read these authors, not Let’s emphasize those words again: at the same pace as a student on the martyr for the people. identifies this to display because they are British or the context conformity, consistency, regularity. level. of the novels but because they do not “Judas and the Black even more hatred within However, “unique,” “different,” Take language studies, for example. understand the semantics of British Messiah” takes this belief the Black community, “eccentric” and “distinct” are more Like every other discipline, linguistics English. and provides audiences creating setbacks toward characteristic of human nature. standardizes language to create Because students in American public with an entirely new the movement. Standardization is necessary for consistency for language usage. schools are trained to think, write and perspective on the Black This anger is later turned safety in large industries, technology, Linguists seek to bring a standard form speak in a single form of the English quality control of commodities and of language for writing and speaking, Panthers and their into the probable cause language, they struggle to understand food and agriculture, medicine and with little deviation in variation. when they encounter language association with the FBI. as the political parties perhaps business practices. But it is The English language arts variation. Director Shaka King delves decide to unite against also used in academia. curriculum and literature classes It is not one-size-fits-all. deep into the true motives their common enemy. Standardization is used in almost grades K-12 are tailored to fit the Some students do not struggle, but every aspect of the classroom. This most commonly used English form. and charity the Black They created a sense of this depends on their background curriculum includes standards taught Again, it doesn’t sound so bad, but Panthers and many other poetic justice within the rather than their formal public school within each academic level, the most American public schools’ Black political parties Black community as their education. They learn to recognize and classroom organization, language demographics are diverse, with understand different language forms at offered during the civil animosity turned into used in the class and academic various dialects that reflect their ethnic home instead of in school. rights movement. Yet, in all respect for one another. achievement, which we measure with background. of the film’s beauty, its dark “Judas and the Black standardized testing rather than actual By standardizing language usage, British literature and other English- language texts should be taught in undertones are delineated Messiah” deals heavily knowledge gained from application linguists and educators create an schools. I’m not arguing against through the portrayal of with the issue of police and experience. even playing field where everybody Before you take out your red sharpie understands each other. reading literary texts that aren’t Black-on-Black crime. brutality and can be drawn and draw devil horns on standardized So while a standardized language American; instead, I’m calling to A central theme the upon with the problems education, remember that it is well- can be preferable for educational attention that we force students to film illustrates is law facing Black people in intentioned, mandating a standardized practices and academic circles, it read texts that they aren’t taught to enforcement’s brutal tactics modern society. With the study path to ensure that every student creates superiority over other dialects understand or contextualize. against Black people. recent death of George has equal opportunity and equal and flushes them out. Language Standardization is not a villain — it is just that standards should include However, this historical Floyd and the rise of the conditions to excel. variations include colloquial dialects In 2002, No Child Left Behind because some texts are written in variety. It sounds contradictory, as notion is not the real political movement “Black (NCLB) passed to hold schools colloquial dialects. Some of these texts the very idea of standardization is to takeaway from the film. Lives Matter,” films of this accountable for students’ equal are not commonly selected for study in remove inconsistencies, but listen to As we start to understand subject matter are ever so opportunities, no matter their capability literature classes. this idea: human standards should Fred Hampton’s important right now. or socioeconomic background. American literary studies most match human nature. This Week’s Spread: Arts and Living

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What it’s like being Afro-Latinx on The Georgia State community discusses campus Afro-Latinidad culture Isa Cardona Associate Arts and Living Editor

Photo Submitted by LASSO

The Latinx identity is exceptionally diverse, and the “I’m blessed with my culture being a Black man, and “In the Latinx or Hispanic community, we’d like to lines between race and ethnicity often blur. Often also I’m blessed with being a Latino,” Lannaman said. think we’re exempt [from racism or colorism] or more marginalized within the Latinx community, many Growing up, Lannaman was aware that he didn’t fit accepting,” Lannaman said. “And whether or not we Afro-Latinx people around the world embrace their into the preconceived mold of how Latinx people are doesn’t mean that we are completely inclusive.” heritage and resist cultural erasure. traditionally look. He noticed that because he was Junior Marina Melendez is Black and Honduran, According to the Latinx Student Service and Outreach, different, people also tended to look at him differently and she feels more connected to her Latinx heritage as of fall 2020, 13% of Georgia State’s students identify as well. depending on where she is. as Hispanic or Latinx of any race. That’s a total of 6,983 “People tend to think of tan skin and the dark hair or When she lived in New York, Melendez saw many students, the highest number of students in a Universi- something like that,” he said. “So, being an Afro-Latinx people who looked like her and spoke Spanish openly, ty System of Georgia institution. person in the [U.S.] means I just have to recognize that which she doesn’t see as often in Georgia. Some students identify as Afro-Latinx within that sometimes when you’re going along that narrow line, Melendez has seen more Afro-Latinx representation in demographic, and LASSO created a space for students that sometimes you don’t necessarily fit into either TV shows like “On My Block.” to feel at home. g roup.” “The [characters] were just like actual Latinx people, From its humble beginnings as a “closet-sized office,” The idea of what Latinx people look like ties into and I think it’s something that I see more of,” she said. LASSO Retention Coordinator Iris Trejo Valencia says Afro-Latinx representation in the media. There are “It brings me joy, and as an older person, looking back, that the center has grown to accommodate its growing well known celebrities like actress Zoe Saldana and I just know that had I seen that when I was younger, it population. basketball player Carmelo Anthony. However, there’s would’ve been such an encouragement.” While LASSO works to showcase the diversity of Lat- still a lack of diversity. At Georgia State, Melendez enjoys going to a school inx identity and culture year-round, in honor of Black “While it is good that we get representation, many with a diverse staff who can relate to her as they History month, they collaborated with other offices times the people you see in the media are usually understand the experience of being a Black person in at Georgia State to help students learn and talk about lighter skin with loose curls,” Lannaman said. “That’s America. Afro-Latinidad. always bothered me because there’s a wide range of “As far as what the university can do to push for On their Instagram page and newsletter, LASSO pro- what [Latinx] people look like, you know. [Someone] diversity, [Georgia State should] continue to fund motes events to empower students, encourage con- with the kinkiest hair and the darkest skin … can be teachers and staff who represent different cultures versation and highlight the various aspects of Latinx just as Latinx as someone else with the typical tan skin that students can connect with,” she said. “[They culture. or curled hair.” should also] provide students with the platform to “[We] just [want to] be able to give students a space Racism and colorism are present throughout the share their voice and how they feel, whether that be to ask questions, but also learn from their peers and world, and it’s not only found within the U.S. The through outlets where different people can come in the different perspectives that everyone has,” Trejo discussion of race and ethnicity within the Latinx and hear about what it’s like to be an Afro-Latino Valencia said. community can be a challenging one student today.” Junior Mark Lannaman is of Jamaican and Colom- Lannaman would like people, especially the non-Black Katie Acosta is an associate professor of sociology bian descent. He believes that his background plays Latinx community, to listen when Afro-Latinx people at Georgia State. She is Dominican, and her parents a role in life because he is at the intersection of two speak up about their history and issues. were born on the island and immigrated to the U.S. minority identities. as teenagers. This Week’s Spread: Arts and Living PAGE DESIGN BY EVAN KOENIGS | THE SIGNAL

Photo Submitted by LASSO Acosta believes that there’s a lot that the university can do to further diversity, equity and inclusion goals, Although she was born in New York City, she lived starting with an intentional and coordinated effort to the earliest years of her life in the Dominican Republic promote a more racially and ethnically diverse faculty. with her mom. Georgia State is a minority-serving institution. Still, “Being Dominican informs every aspect of my identi- the faculty is no more racially diverse than predomi- ty,” Acosta said. “Technically, I’m Dominican Amer- nantly white institutions, and upper administration is ican because I was born here and am a U.S. citizen, almost entirely white. but I have never felt like an American. Living in this “That’s a problem,” Acosta said. “And contrary to what country as a Dominican person has always meant some administrators think, the solution to this prob- feeling ’other.’” lem is not to have faculty members of color ‘realize Acosta says that being an Afro-Latina educator is a their potential’ to pursue administrative positions.” lonely experience, as there are few higher education Other institutions implemented cluster hires to boost institutions in which one can find people like her. diversity and promote inclusion. She explains that the number of Latinx faculty at most “The notion of bringing in a group of scholars whose schools is even smaller than African American faculty. research interests align with one another who can con- And Afro-Latinx faculty are an even smaller propor- tribute to our university’s offerings in Latinx studies is tion of Latinx faculty. a place to start,” Acosta said. “It makes a lot of sense to Acosta is unsure if being Afro-Latina benefits her bring in cohorts of faculty who can support one anoth- teaching and research, as she doesn’t know what it er, rather than an isolated individual.” would be like to be a professor as a white person. Acosta thinks that strong allyship requires internal “What I can say is that my identity as an Afro-Latina reflection for activism, especially for non-Black Latinx impacts every aspect of how I approach my work,” allies. she said. “It influences how I design my courses, my “What are the ways that they benefit from their white- research interests and how others in the academy see ness? What are the ways that they have been complicit my worth.” in the erasure of Blackness among Latinx people?” she As an educator at Georgia State, Acosta spends a lot said. “They also can call their family members out and of time defending her Blackness to folks who equate call them in to acknowledge the erasure and the harm Black to African American. In particular, undergrad- it causes.” uate students have difficulty processing that. Acosta loves everything about being Afro-Latina, “I feel like I have to walk around explaining to every- Photo Submitted by LASSO from the music and culture to the language. But the one why I look the way I do,” Acosta said. identity carries many challenges. Slave ships brought people of African descent all “It’s exhausting to have to fight for the right to claim over the Americas, not just to the U.S. Cuba and Latinidad and fight for the right to claim Blackness,” the Dominican Republic received vast numbers of she said. “You don’t ever really fit anywhere.” enslaved Africans. ARTS & LIVING February 23, 2021 WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/ARTSANDLIVING

ILLUSTRATION BY ROE GASSETT | THE SIGNAL Burnout on the other end of Zoom University Professors explain what stresses them about virtual teaching JADA JONES Arts & Living Editor

s virtual learning continues into 2021, students accommodate online teaching. comfortable teaching from home. and professors alike are experiencing burnout. “[Online teaching] really doesn’t play to what I consider “[Teaching online] makes me more nervous,” he said. A With the COVID-19 pandemic bringing my biggest strength,” he said. “I like lecturing, and my “I’ve always been a confident public speaker, but when I prolonged academic, workplace, financial and health presentations are pretty polished, and they’re structured, set up my computer, I get more nervous about it. [Online,] stresses, instructors are inevitably feeling tired and so there’s room for debates and conversation. I even have I have a tendency to misspeak or be less articulate about helpless. certain stupid jokes I tell every semester, and they’re built something and then obsess over it.” When Georgia State first moved in-person learning into the lecture.” Instructors like Carmen Eilertson, a principal senior to an online environment, students and professors were Joseph Normandin is a senior lecturer and the director lecturer in Georgia State’s biology department, take on optimistic about the transition. of undergraduate studies at Georgia State’s Neuroscience another role to facilitate learning. Eilertson mentioned she But as the pandemic continues and professors have to Institute. He explained that teaching online was easier in doubles as a “cheerleader” to her students to keep them keep adapting their classes to fit the virtual learning mold, 2020’s spring semester because it was a change of pace. But motivated. professors like Mathew Gayman are feeling stressed out. after teaching online spring, summer and fall, Normandin “The students in my classes are highly motivated and Gayman is an associate professor in the sociology feels burnt out. driven,” she said. “But I have noticed since spring of 2020 department at Georgia State. He explained that it’s “In the initial transition in spring [of 2020,] it didn’t feel the level of motivation is declining in these really good sometimes difficult for his in-person class content to like [the pandemic] was going to last this long,” he said. students, so I’m finding my role as a cheerleader to be very translate well in a virtual environment. “We didn’t know what was going to happen, so it felt new important to keep them on task.” “It’s not like flipping a light switch,” he said. “It takes and exciting; that quickly turned to panic. Like any other professor, Eilertson finds it extremely considerable time and energy to move a class online or Like Gayman and McMillian, he has difficulty building difficult to bond with her students. It is so tricky that she create an online class, which are not necessarily the same relationships with students when he’s met with muted sometimes doesn’t recognize all of her students’ names thing. It’s [been] a year since COVID[-19] hit, and I’m still microphones and turned-off cameras when conducting a and faces. For Eilertson, the absence of a bond with her trying to make my prior in-person class [function] online.” class. He wishes to experience walking through campus students is detrimental because most of her students are Gayman mentioned another hurdle he faces while and seeing familiar faces again. preparing to go to medical school and ask her to write teaching online is not being able to “read the room” “I find that [I miss] the physical aspect of walking to letters of recommendation. or gauge how well his students understand the course work, walking between classes, and standing up and “A lot of my students are dual-degree students, and I’m material. John McMillian, an associate professor in teaching,” Normandin said. “I’m tired of just sitting here. I having to write a letter of recommendation for medical Georgia State’s history department, shares the same really miss the physical aspect.” school, and they don’t feel they know me well enough or sentiments. Normandin expressed that some faculty may struggle to feel I don’t know them well enough to write a good letter McMillian doesn’t consider himself the most tech- adapt to virtual teaching, even this far into the pandemic of support,” she said. “That’s a huge disadvantage.” savvy professor and sometimes gets frustrated with how because they worry about how their virtual lectures come Despite the challenges that online teaching brings, these time-consuming creating assignments on iCollege can across to students. professors all find that what keeps them going throughout be. But thanks to Georgia State’s Center for Excellence in Similarly, some students still can’t find their footing in the semester is their students’ patience. Offering patience Teaching, Learning and Online Education, he received the virtual learning environments and stress over their grades to a professor who’s not the most tech-savvy or because training he needs to navigate iCollege correctly. and relationships with their professors. they are enduring their struggles is much appreciated by “There [are] all these steps that I find to be cumbersome. “There’s some faculty where recording themselves is all instructors. Something that would take a few minutes in person can stressful,” Normandin said. “Being in front of the class, “Overall, students have been very understanding and take a lot longer iCollege,” he said. “Luckily, there’s tech not so much, but [faculty is] going back and saying, ‘Oh I recognize, just as teachers recognize, that none of this is support, and they’re friendly and helpful. Sometimes I feel shouldn’t have said that that way’ and redoing their lecture. ideal [and] these are tough times for all,” Gayman said. stupid asking questions that are easy for other people but There’s probably a lot of that. So I think faculty have some “We have wonderful students, and I appreciate them.” kind of difficult for me, but they’re great.” of the same struggles as students where some faculty made As the semester reaches the midpoint, students and But McMillian finds that what he misses the most about the transition easier than others.” professors need to understand that everyone needs in-person learning is lecturing. He enjoyed speaking to Instructors like McMillian identify with Normandin’s someone to lean on. College is no easy feat, and everyone large groups of people and had to redesign his lectures to statement that some professors are not entirely needs a little sympathy to keep going. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 ARTS&LIVING 11 Students explain how to ‘cancel’ someone Music fans identify problematic celebrity behaviors

DESMOND LEAKE Staff Reporter he term problematic is their “problematic” arrogance and ignorance,” T has become she said. “[6ix9ine] has a buzzword in recent done many things that years, with the word make people hate him, but now describing various he does not seem to care.” undesirable beliefs or Tekashi 6ix9ine is one of actions of celebrities. The the most despised rappers label increased in usage in the industry for many throughout the 2010s, reasons, but the one that presumably due to its got him blacklisted was use as a catch-all word snitching in court, which for something that one is heavily frowned upon in finds undesirable. But the music industry. some people criticize the However, 6ix9ine’s term for being vague and blacklisting by most of his meaningless. peers in the music industry “I feel like ‘problematic’ is relatively uncommon. Art therapy, or expressive therapy, is a commonly used tool by has become a term for Another heavily discussed therapists and clinics to encourage mental healing and growth. PHOTO BY DEENA KAYYALI | THE SIGNAL anything someone doesn’t artist often accused of like,” junior Luis Cantera being problematic is Chris said. “I feel like if someone Brown. is sexist or toxic, we should Senior Sana Nadeem Local counselors explain the just call them that.” talked about how Chris However, there is not a Brown’s career is still stable consensus on what makes despite his controversies. benefits of expressive therapy someone or something “He was literally arrested Using artistic outlets in therapy can bring mental healing “problematic.” for assault against Rihanna, For example, but he still has the 25th DEENA KAYYALI Staff Reporter problematic might be J.K. most listeners on Spotify,” Rowling’s transphobic rt has the potential to play a holistic healing. outpatient program where art therapy she said. comments or Gina significant role in therapy by “Traditional talk therapy may was offered and encouraged. She Chris Brown is an Carano’s Instagram Aallowing people to express be difficult for clients who have explained the power of expressive anomaly within the music story comparing being themselves in a nontraditional experienced trauma, especially if therapy and its healing abilities. industry. His controversies a Republican to being a way. Using art in therapeutic experienced in childhood,” she said. “It helps externalize their trauma don’t stop him from being Holocaust victim. processes is known as “expressive “Different parts of the brain are narratives and internal thoughts,” she a top-selling artist, with Junior Luis Cantera therapy.” Psychology Today defines impacted when someone experiences said. “It’s a way to separate what they the most infamous of his believes that “problematic” expressive therapy as “a combination distress and makes regular cognitive would describe as their ghosts or inner controversies being his refers to the energy one of psychological techniques and functioning challenging.” domestic violence charge demons from them as a person and puts out into the world. creative forms to promote mental and from his girlfriend at the helps patients remove them from who “A problematic person emotional healing.” time, Rihanna. they are as a person.” is someone who puts out Research from the Psychotherapy His career is full of and Counselling Federation of Junior Armenia Alvi uses art therapy negative energy into the in her home to improve her mental world with no remorse,” controversies, such as an Australia shows that these practices help patients process traumatic events, I cannot health. Through painting and drawing, he said. “A good example altercation with Frank foster self-reflection and awareness, she connects with her internalized of this is [Tekashi] 6ix9ine, Ocean over a parking spot, describe the create emotional and physical thoughts, allowing her to process and although you could make saying that he wanted “ connections and help understand work through emotions. an argument for artists like members of the group clarity I have children’s mental development. “When it’s just me and my paint, Drake or The Weeknd.” CHVRCHES “to walk in An article from Healthline describes when it’s I feel a calm that falls over me,” she Tekashi 6ix9ine’s front of a speeding bus” the artistic nature of the right brain. said. “It’s a time for me to connect controversies are and a standoff with police Art utilizes the right side of the brain, just me, my with my inner self and express onto a numerous enough to create officers that lasted an entire which is more creative, intuitive and physical platform what I’ve been feeling multiple documentaries. day. Despite all of this, brushes and he still has a flourishing less linear. These highly stimulating internally. Sometimes I don’t even His constant use of the qualities help process distress in ways career. my know what I’m feeling, but when I start N-word in his songs that verbal language can traditionally The word “problematic” to paint, it clears my mind and helps despite not being Black, limit. comes with its baggage due thoughts. me to better understand my emotions.” his child sexual abuse Expressive therapy involves not only to not having an agreement Creating art allows one to evaluate charges and his role in painting and drawing but other art their perceptions of the world and the Nine Trey Gangsters on its definition. Aside forms as well. Practicing music, poetry, — ARMENIA ALVI understand their trauma. Many people trial is just the tip of the from its consistent usage creative writing, dance, sculpting and have trouble expressing themselves iceberg. Despite all these referring to celebrity more have proven helpful to patients. Georgia State controversies, he has 10 behavior, the word’s Hanifa Akpe is a licensed Junior through words, and art gives personal ” connection and realization. million monthly listeners meaning is vague and professional counselor who uses Transferring one’s internal traumas on Spotify. unquantifiable. expressive therapy in her practice. She into visuals makes them tangible. It “Sometimes, I really just don’t want Freshman Hanifa Keder One thing is sure: As spoke about the benefits of art therapy allows the individual to separate their to talk to anyone about my feelings believes 6ix9ine’s lack of long as celebrities continue and mental health, especially regarding trauma from themselves, creating a far because I don’t even understand them awareness is what makes to exist, “problematic” clients who endured trauma. She easier processing and healing method. myself,” Alvi said. “However, I cannot him problematic. will be the word used to believes that art therapy, in addition Licensed Professional Counselor describe the clarity I have when it’s just “What makes one address their flaws. to other Expressive Therapies, leads to Edliz Vazquez worked at an intensive me, my brushes and my thoughts.” SPORTS February 23, 2021 WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/SPORTS The Falcons hire the team’s first Black GM Terry Fontenot is ready for his next step in football

JASON RICHBURG Staff Reporter he Atlanta Falcons featuring Alvin Kamara announced former (2017 Offensive Rookie of T Tennessee Titans The Year) and Marshon Offensive Coordinator Lattimore (Defensive Rookie Arthur Smith as head coach of the Year). Both Kamara back on Jan. 15. On Jan. and Lattimore are All-Pro 19, they announced hiring players. former New Orleans Saints During his introductory Director of Pro Scouting press conference on Jan. 19, Terry Fontenot as general Fontenot immediately stated manager. the Falcons will be a “culture With this hiring, Fontenot of competition and want became the first Black to bring in good players at general manager in the every position.” Falcons’ 56-year history in When asked about the NFL. Arthur Smith as a head Along with Smith, coach, Fontenot connected State Farm Arena will be home to the 2021 NBA All Star Game PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL Fontenot now takes on his job as a former scout to on March 7th. reconstructing an already recognizing Smith’s potential talented Falcons roster. as a head coach. Now more than ever, Adam Silver’s Julio Jones, Grady Jarrett, “Over the last couple of Matt Ryan, Dion Jones, years, I was intrigued by him legacy is at stake Calvin Ridley and many and started doing my own other talented players can research,” Fontenot said. What March 7’s All-Star Game means, how we got here help put the Falcons back When asked about his and NAJEH WILKINS Staff Columnist into title contention. Smith’s decisions about the Fontenot has spent the handlings of the 53- and 48- he NBA has postponed 30 games Outside of the All-Star Game, the league’s manager Daryl Morey tweeted, “Fight for in the first nine weeks of the handling of contact tracing seems subpar at freedom. Stand for Hong Kong,” in response last 18 years with the Saints: man roster and other areas, T season due to COVID-19 protocol times. Take the Feb. 5 Kevin Durant debacle, to protests in China. first as a pro scout, then Fontenot tells reporters and contact tracing. But that is just the latest for example, when the Brooklyn Nets hosted Morey’s comments did not sit well with the director of pro scouting “they’ll be on the same page.” in a long list of wrongs that the NBA cannot the Toronto Raptors. Chinese government, supporters or sponsors and eventually as the vice “It doesn’t matter,” seem to correct in the last few weeks. Initially, Durant couldn’t open the of the NBA in the authoritarian country. Entering the season, the NBA announced Brooklyn Nets game due to COVID-19 Most recently, outspoken Dallas Mavericks president and assistant Fontenot said. “We are there would not be an All-Star Game. After protocols but could play later in the game. owner Mark Cuban announced the franchise general manager. going to communicate … the league announced its intent to play an However, the NBA forced Brooklyn to pull would no longer play the national anthem. Fontenot brings an We’re going to make Falcon All-Star Game on March 7 in Atlanta, some the MVP candidate in the second half of that The NBA followed by requiring every excellent eye for scouting out decisions.” regulars in the event voiced concerns. Los game due to contact tracing. NBA team to play the anthem. talented players. Regarding the draft Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was Durant followed with a tweet that said: With so many issues arising in the NBA one of many looking forward to the All-Star “Fre e Me .” recently, now is the time for unity. During his time with the process, Fontenot has his break after winning an NBA Finals and then He then missed a week of basketball and Some of the most talented players in the Saints scouting department priorities set, with only one experiencing the shortest offseason in NBA three games for the Nets before returning to league are against it. Why even have an All- and front office, Fontenot concept in mind. history at 71 days. play the Golden State Warriors on Feb. 14. Star Game? It is an unnecessary cash grab “I have zero energy and excitement about There is not enough clarity to the NBA’s was able to spot team needs “In the draft, you’re going that could cause more anguish than a usually an All-star game this year. Pretty much a slap protocol around the infectious disease, and talented players via the to take the best player … fun-filled weekend. in the face,” James said after a recent game. leading multiple influential players to speak The All-Star game is known for draft, free agency or mid- We’re never going to be “It’s been a short offseason for my teammates out about it. season acquisition. afraid to take any position and myself ... [The break would have been] a The NBA already returned early after an great basketball, elite scoring displays, nice little opportunity for me to recalibrate for official conclusion to its season in October extraordinary moves and jaw-dropping All-Pro talent under and build the strength.” the second half of season and my teammates and a restart during Christmas. dunks that leave fans and even players and Fontenot includes Cameron The Falcons ended their coaches in awe. as well … and then they throw an All-Star With this early restart, the NBA intended Jordan, Terron Armstead, 2020 season, finishing with a game on us like this.” to prevent the loss of billions of dollars and This year, the event just wouldn’t be the Max Unger, Andrus Peat 4-12 record, and missed the James, 36, is a veteran of the annual players having to cut or change their salaries same. The players do not want to compete, tradition. due to the pandemic’s changing climate. and without their enthusiasm, the game could and more. playoffs for a third straight But even some in the younger generation, Sports fans generally view the NBA be a disaster. During his time as the season. Of course, the pandemic has affected the such as Sacramento Kings’ guard De’Aaron as a progressive league with its hands on New Orleans Saints’ Director Smith and Fontenot Fox, echo James’ sentiment. “I think it’s stupid the wheel. Lately, the headlines have said NBA’s bottom line and revenues. But there look to turn the Falcons’ to hold an All-star game given everything otherwise. comes the point where health and safety are of Pro Scouting, Fontenot going on with a pandemic and how it’s The NBA also encountered problems in above making money. played a hand in the Saints’ misfortunes around and affecting players and teams,” Fox said. 2019, when then-Houston Rockets general The NBA has yet to recognize this point. exceptional 2017 draft class, bring a title to Atlanta’s city. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 SPORTS 13 Hawks’ struggles continue during 1-2 slate Three things we learned about the Hawks last week

NAJEH WILKINS. Staff Reporter he Atlanta Hawks masterpiece on a 10-16 won just one of shooting performance to go T their three games with three steals. last week, falling to 12-17 To say he was entering Sunday night’s game magnificent last week is against the Denver Nuggets. an understatement. Young Once a sixth seed in the entered Sunday 26.6 points conference, the Hawks are per game and 9.3 assists struggling mightily. Clint Capela and, while he may not continues to be get the same recognition the Hawks’ best as other NBA stars, he rebounder in years certainly deserves to be in the Capela notched double- conversation. doubles in all three games He proved this week he this week and was a force to should be an All-Star, and he be reckoned with on the glass. will do whatever it takes to Ryan Boyce looks back at his decision to transfer and play during a He was the second-best help his team win. pandemic. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY GSU ATHLETICS player this week alongside Atlanta failed to Trae Young. Against the create any traction New York Knicks, Capela this week One season later, Ryan Boyce scored 15 points and added Atlanta falls to 1-2 on the 18 rebounds, including six week and has lower seeds offensive. doesn’t regret a thing beginning to gain some In the Hawks’ two-game traction on them. It’s not that Reflecting on the easy transition from his hometown to Atlanta series against the Boston Celtics, Capela fared well this team lacks talent, but the JULIAN HARDEN Staff Reporter primary issue is the lack of with 24 points and 15 or Ryan Boyce, the last two versatility allows him to come off the play have been draining for Boyce. While rebounds in Wednesday’s consistency and availability. years have been anything bench and started games for the Panthers he understands the safety precautions, win. He followed that up with The Hawks are without F but ordinary. In his first when needed. the pauses to the season have halted the 24 points and 13 rebounds. second-year player De’Andre couple of seasons, he’s been redshirted Even as his first season comes during team’s momentum and chemistry of the He’s simply been a force Hunter, who does all of the and playeding duringin the midst a pandemic, he has seen his game evolve. team. in the interior and leads the little things well. They are of a pandemic. However, his biggest When looking back at his journey from The Panthers have postponed several challenge has caome this season after as Memphis to Atlanta, Boyce feels like the NBA in rebounds, averaging missing offseason acquisition games due to staff and players’ health. he’s taking on a significant role for the choice was relativelyrather easy and has 14 a game. Last weekend’s road trip to face the Troy Bogdan Bogdanovic, Panthers this season. no regret playing in Atlanta Atlanta. He has been the most Trojans was canceled after a member of who remains out for the AJust a year ago, he playedwas playing “When I came across Georgia State consistent part of the Hawks the Georgia Southern Eagles member foreseeable future. This for his hometown Memphis Tigers and [head coach Rob] Lanier, it felt team all season. Every week tested positive for COVID-19. week has continued a and gotgetting daily coaching from like family,” Boyce said. “[Jojo] Toppin Capela does all he can to help “It’s really been tough,” Boyce said. recent trend for Atlanta, like former NBA All-Star Anfernee “Penny” showed me the ins and outs of State and his team, but they keep falling Hardaway. Now, inin the midst of a to my classes on campus.” “We have to get back into game shape, underwhelming defense and short. global pandemic, his first season with the Lanier is a significant reason for and the pauses hurt our chemistry on the Trae Young needs to not consistently finishing Panthers has brought several unforeseen Boyce’s decision to transfer to Georgia court.” be an All-Star games. events. State. Under Lanier, he’s been able to get Boyce last played in the Panthers’ 79- Young had an All-star This team had its eyes set “It’s definitely been crazy,” Boyce said. more playing time and become more 75 victory over rival Georgia Southern “I’m happy to be in the position I’m in at prominent in the Panther offense. on Feb.11, and it was his first start in caliber week, averaging 31 on a postseason berth since Georgia State.” While he still hasn’t acclimated to nearly a month. He couldn’twasn’t able points per game in the three 2017 and looked strong out The sophomore guard transferred the new style completely, Boyce has still to play in the Panthers’Panthers return games. He carried the scoring the gate. Inconsistent play from Memphis after just five games in found ways to make his time on the court from a COVIDovid-19 hiatus against the load, but the team did not like this week, especially 2019 and redshirted the remainder of count as the Panthers etch closer to the South Alabama Jaguars. follow his lead. from the perimeter, only the season on the Georgia State sideline. conference tournament. The Panthers However, Boyce has taken advantage Against the Knicks, he makes a playoff berth a more Since making his debut against Georgia will play numerous games over the of the opportunities to improve scored 23 points on 6-19 challenging reality to come Tech earlier this season, Boyce’s impact remaining weeks of the month to make his game. Even with the season’s as a starter is made an enormousa up for the games missed from earlier in shooting but drained 10 of 12 true. unpredictabilityunpredictability of the free throws. large impact as a starter. Due to injuries the season. Atlanta needs more season, Boyce has been a consistent Young went on to put on and play stoppages due to COVID-19, Boyce has also developed a strong consistent perimeter play and reliablesolid piece for the Panthers a show against the Celtics in Boyce has been thrust into the Panthers’ relationship with fellow transfers alongside Young and needs to spotlightspotlight for the Panthers. Jojo Toppin and Eliel Nsoseme. Both in 2021. Not only has he been a solid Wednesday Night’s victory, contributor on the court, but he’s been become the team when it first In the season opener, against the Nsoseme and Boyce redshirted last scoring 40 points on an an essentialimportant piece off the court started the season. It begins Yellow Jackets, Boyce only scored four season and developedwere able to efficient 14-20 and added points and grabbed three rebounds. Still, develop a friendship as both became as well. by improving and ironing out eight assists. He was also 4-9 his, but his exceptional defense wrote the acclimated to Georgia State. Boyce looks to continue his solid from three. the small things and begin to narrative as the Panthers won 124-120 in However, playing during a pandemic play during the Panthers’ home game Young finished his week pick up key victories in the a quadruple-overtime thriller. has had its challenges for Boyce. For one, tonight against the Appalachian State with a 31-point, 11-assist win column. On the defensivedefensice end, Boyce’s the challenges the constant stoppages of Mountaineers at 5:00 p.m. February 23, 2021

GAMES SUDOKU

UNIVERSITY STATE NATIONAL

Fireworks to begin the Panthers’ Braves make noise in free agency, The Brooklyn Nets are as baseball season national media taking notice good as we thought Georgia State opened their baseball season Friday MLB.com released their power rankings heading After the Nets acquired James Harden in a night, beginning a four-game series with No. 14 West into the 2021 season, and the Atlanta Braves came in at blockbuster trade last month, people wondered how Virginia. The Mountaineers took the first game Friday fourth. Resigning Marcell Ozuna brings back one of the he would balance touches with Kyrie Irving and Kevin 5-3, but the Panthers bounced back and swept Saturday’s best power hitters in Major League Baseball. Durant. double-header. Bringing in Charlie Morton and Drew Smyly will also The first game went into extra innings before senior This past week, they swept a top-division in the NBA catcher Elian Marejo’s walk-off single in the 10th inning provide depth in the pitching rotation. Factor in Ozuna’s with four playoff teams, including two of the top three gave the Panthers a 7-6 win, their first over a ranked signing with Freddie Freeman coming off of an NL MVP, teams right now, the Los Angles Lakers and Los Angeles opponent since 2018. In the second game, the Panthers and this team is not one to shy away from. Clippers. dominated the Mountaineers in a 20-4 victory, but West Durant, a top-five MVP candidate, sat out four of the Virginia ended their time in Atlanta with a 3-2 win five games on the road trip. They sit a half-game back of Sunday. the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference. THREE THINGS THREE BIG TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 THE KICKBACK 15

GAMES COMIC Your Comic Should be Here!

THE KICKBACK UPCOMING EVENTS

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

Talk Tuesday: Rewind Consent Circle Critical Conversation: Table Talk: The Impact & 1921: Remembering Tulsa: 12:00 p.m - 1:00 p.m When Sugaring is Not Evolution of Black Music Reimagining Black Wall Virtual Sweet 12:00 p.m - 1:00 p.m Street 7:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m Virtual 12:00 p.m. - 1:15 p.m. Blackness in the Latinx Virtual Black Student Virtual Diaspora: Immigration, Achievement Presents: Culture, Colonialism DEC: Drive-In Movie Double Trivia Night, Black History FEB 23 FEB 26 FEB Hot Topic Tuesday 24 FEB 3:00 p.m - 4:30 p.m 25 FEB Feature showing “Grease” Edition 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Virtual & “Just Mercy” 6:00 p.m - 7:15 p.m Virtual 6:30 p.m - 10:45 p.m Virtual Decatur Campus, Lot 3

SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY

Black Matter: The Play Shakespeare in the Ponce: Meditation Monday 7:00 p.m - 9:30 p.m Hamlet 12:00 p.m - 12:30 p.m The Windmill Arts Center 3:30 p.m - 5:00 p.m Virtual RoleCall Theater Black Business Expo Hot Wings Hot Topics 1:00 p.m - 4:00 p.m Black Light Winter 4:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m Greenbriar Mall Activation: A Visual Ode Virtual FEB 27 FEB 28 FEB to Hip Hop and Black 29 FEB Resilience 5:00 p.m - 10:00 p.m Broad Street Boardwalk