The Daily Mississippian August 31, 2023

MISSISSIPPIAN THE

Greenfield Farm to revitalize Southern storytelling

Presley packs town hall in Oxford

CAROLINE MCCUTCHEN

thedmfeatures@gmail.com

Nestled between William Faulkner’s home of Rowan Oak and his birthplace of New Albany, Miss., Greenfield Farm served as the author’s agrarian observatory. Amidst farmers and mules harvesting corn and cotton, Faulkner gathered creative inspiration for his world-renowned novels. Currently owned by the University of Mississippi, Faulkner’s mule farm will soon be transformed into Greenfield Farm, the first stipend-supported nonprofit writer’s residency in the Deep South.

Spearheading the residency’s creation is John T. Edge, director of the Mississippi Lab, a UM initiative that generates and supports creative projects. The Mississippi Lab aims to provide a secluded sanctuary for Southern writers and build upon the rich literary legacy of Mississippi.

“What we’re doing is a natural accompaniment to Rowan Oak. It’s the laboratory to Rowan Oak. It’s the place to do the work to drive change and progress in

Mississippi,” Edge said. “This is a humanities laboratory for people to do deep thinking and deep writing to get removed from the nature of everyday life.”

However, Edge shared, Greenfield is not aimed strictly towards writers in the traditional sense. Rather, it welcomes anyone who wishes to write, including songwriters, poets, nonfiction writers and novelists.

Expected to host its first cohort beginning in mid2025, the writer’s residency plans to open its doors to 50 to 60 writers each year between its commuter residency and stipend-supported overnight program.

The latter entails providing $1,000 per week to writers staying in overnight cabins. Thanks to this support, writers of all socioeconomic backgrounds will have the opportunity to pursue their craft without financial constraints.

“We have the best writing in the nation, and it’s time for Mississippians to get that fact out there and for Mississippians to tell their stories,” UM professor and former Mississippi poet laureate Beth Ann Fennelly said.

“And the fact that this residency is going to be funded means that it’s really open to all Mississippians.”

Fennelly, along with Ralph Eubanks, UM faculty fellow

SEE GREENFIELD PAGE 6

SEE PRESLEY, PAGE 3

HOTEL FICTION

Indie-rock bands Hotel Fiction and Trash Panda held a show Aug. 26 at Proud Larry’s

SEE PAGE 5

PETE GOLDING

Golding is a great defensive mind walking into an average defense with a lot of potential, which is a formula for top-25 upside.

SEE PAGE 8

Rebels likely to snag Mercer win in first game

IAN SPARKS

thedmsports@gmail.com

It’s that time of year again. Football season is finally upon us, and the Rebels’ roster looks to be one of the most talented they have had in a while.

Entering the season ranked No. 22 in the Associated Press poll, Ole Miss starts the season with lofty aspirations.

The Rebels are returning a large number of playmakers from last sea -

son. Freshman running back sensation Quinshon Judkins is entering his second year at Ole Miss with potential Heisman shouts nationwide.

Junior quarterback Jaxson Dart, the presumed starter, is coming into his second year in Coach Lane Kiffin’s system, looking to make that same leap Matt Corral did under Kiffin.

As for new faces, Kiffin did what Kiffin does: hit the portal hard. Adding two elite-level quarterbacks in Oklahoma State trans -

fer Spencer Sanders and former five-star recruit Walker Howard has put Kiffin in another quarterback decision-making process.

Along with some key additions on defense in Monty Montgomery, Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste and more, the proclaimed Portal King brought in a top-five portal class in the country. Not to mention adding the top two high-school recruits in the state with five-star Suntarine Perkins and four-star Ayden Williams,

both of whom are shaping up to be early contributors for the Rebels.

Ole Miss is playing host to Mercer out of the FCS for the season and home opener at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 2. The Rebels, playing at home in front of what should be a good crowd, are heavily favored to be too much for the Bears.

Mercer started its season on a

Brandon Presley, the Democratic nominee for governor, held a town hall in Oxford on Aug. 30. The former mayor of Nettleton talked about fiscal policy, school funding and the state welfare scandal.

PHOTO: HAL FOX / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Philip Jackson’s art class at William Faulkner’s Greenfield Farm.

PHOTO COURTESY: KEVIN BAIN / THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS

Arts&Culture

Why ‘Bottoms’ is the top movie of 2023

WILL JONES

“Could the ugly, untalented gays please report to the principal’s office?”

Within the opening frames of director Emma Seligman’s sophomore feature “Bottoms,” I knew I was in for an experience like no other.

The film is the delirious brain-child of Seligman and actress Rachel Sennott, who first collaborated on their masterful 2020 cringe comedy “Shiva Baby.”

While that film followed the anxious and awkward life of a recent college graduate, the duo now set their sights on arguably the most anxious and awkward period of all our lives: high school.

Though it lampoons tropes inherent to the high school and coming-of-age genre, “Bottoms” continues to excavate what Seligman as writer/ director and Sennott as star (and in this case, co-writer) do best, and what separates them as truly generational talents: deftly adjoining the messiness and complexity of living in the modern age with the messiness and complexity of the queer experience.

Sennott stars as PJ, opposite the brilliant Ayo Edebiri as Josie. The two are unpopular best friends who consistently find themselves on the outskirts of their football-worshipping, patriarchal high school, desiring to date the popular cheerleaders, but unsure exactly how.

As violent and homophobic tensions in the school rise to the surface, PJ and Josie decide to start an all-female self-defense club, leading to newfound connections and high-stakes shenanigans in equal measure.

What begins as a comic riff on David Fincher’s “Fight Club” soon transforms into its own wonderfully transgressive work of giddy, mad genius.

Sennott and Seligman’s free-wheeling, absurdist screenplay, combined with standout performances by Edebiri and Marshawn Lynch (yes, that Marshawn Lynch) elevate “Bottoms” into not only the best movie of 2023, but a watershed moment in millennial and gen-z filmmaking.

Its unbridled, madcap energy reminded me of seeing Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Boogie Nights” for the first time–a film of unpredictable verve seldom seen in American filmmaking, in turn serving as the bold declaration of a once-in-a-generation cinematic talent.

While “Boogie Nights” served as a loving synthesis of 1970s cinema, “Bottoms” carves its inspirations out of uniquely 21st century works, from the likes of Judd Apatow-produced comedies to “High School Musical.” Charli XCX provides a memorable and electric score, while hit singles like Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated” serve as the musical cherry on top in a film brimming with irony and tenderness alike.

“Bottoms” is the high school movie to end all high school movies. A truly bold and revelatory satirical balancing act, in addition to being one of the most purely enjoyable, hilarious screenplays of recent memory.

Few movies have left me feeling as electrified or provided me with such a lingering jolt of energy than when I saw the film at SXSW in March.

If you see one movie in 2023, see “Bottoms.”

“Bottoms” opens Sept. 1 in theaters nationwide

“Bottoms” theatrical release poster.

Hotel Fiction and Trash Panda check into Oxford

ISABELLE FROST thedmfeatures@gmail.com

Indie groups Hotel Fiction and Trash Panda tag-teamed sets on Aug. 26 at Proud Larry’s.

Hotel Fiction, an indie-rock duo from Athens, Ga., has played shows with artists such as Flipturn, Adam Melchor, Beach Fossils, The Brook & The Bluff and more. The duo, Jade Long and Jessica “Jess” Thompson, turned heads with their debut album “Soft Focus.” After graduating from college in May 2021, the pair began playing shows across the country.

“The best part about touring is being able to create music with our band every night and connect with our band and with the audience,” Thompson said. “Lately, it’s been really fun to challenge ourselves to keep making our set better and keep making our show different and exciting because we’ve been touring for a while.”

Hotel Fiction has played in Oxford before as an opener to the band “Flipturn.” The duo shared their excitement as they returned.

“Oxford is a very iconic college town and the energy is really exciting and cool,” Thompson said. “We love coming back here.”

Thompson gave a few words of advice to students interested in pursuing a career in music.

“You’re gonna be starting from a place where you want to get better, and the only way to

get better is to put yourself out there when you’re not where you want to be,” Thompson said. “So, don’t be afraid to do that. Be yourself. Don’t compare yourself to other musicians.”

Before the show, fans of these two artists expressed their excitement for the upcoming show.

The unique performance style allows fans to experience their music in a new light from concert to concert.

“What’s bringing me back a second time is their performance style. Hotel Fiction takes their original tracks a step further by stretching a four-minute long song into nine minutes of breathtaking symphony,” junior art major James Douglas said. “I’m genuinely ecstatic for the bar’s ambiance once they throw down an extended guitar solo for “Man on the Moon.”

Hotel Fiction’s ability to connect with fans through their music creates a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

“Their music feels heartfelt and nostalgic, like a coffee shop’s background music during your first date in high school, or like the distinct smell of your father’s favorite sweatshirt that you stole for college,” Douglas said. “Their music is a balanced mix of upbeat melodies and introspective ballads, and I believe that their ability to create emotional connections through

their work is what makes them such amazing performers.”

The show started with local Oxford band UNI. The trio put on an electric set that consisted of songs such as “Sad Disco” by Flipturn.

Trash Panda, the duo-turnedtrio, was started by songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Patrick Taylor. Although the band members consider

themselves “post-genera,” Trash Panda’s music resembles genres like neo-psychedelia, soul, indie rock and pop. The band’s sophomore album, “Pandamonium!,” was released following a four-year hiatus in which members pursued other projects. The show consisted of a high-energy set in which Trash Panda played everything from their classic hit “Atlanta Girls”

to new songs like “En La Selva,” which is set to come out Sept. 8. The band is also set to release a “Jam in the Van” session Sept. 1. Trash Panda ended their set with a Deftones-esc metal outro. Hotel Fiction put on an explosive set, performing songs such as “Athens GA” and “Allure” from their EP “Enjoy your stay” along with classics like “Out of My Head.”

Strong lineup to fuel the Powerhouse this year

Oxford is undeniably rich in the arts, and the widely beloved community arts center The Powerhouse is well aware of how important the theater is as an art form.

Over the course of the past year, there has been no shortage of incredible stage performances coming from the Powerhouse. This upcoming season looks to offer a similar template in the best ways.

Following a packed-house performance of “Almost Maine” in early August, The Powerhouse seems to have a consistent upcoming slate for the fall and spring semesters.

On Sept. 8 and 9, Jessica Blank and Erik Jensen’s “The Exonerated” will be performed. The play, directed by Felipe E. Macias, follows the true story

of six wrongfully convicted individuals and their time spent in prison. The talent on display, as well as the quality of the source material, sets this production up to be one that packs a powerhouse of a punch.

On a lighter note, Michael Snider’s “Peppermint Bear and The Toy Elves” will take to the stage just in time for the holidays. The Christmas-themed musical will be directed by Rene Pulliam and will run from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2.

Another Pulliam-directed production, “Poetry in Photography,” will be put on as a celebration of Ann Fisher-Wirth and Maude Schuyler Clay’s works in poetry and photography. It is set to open on Jan. 30.

Shortly after that, the highly beloved annual Ten-Minute Play Festival will return. This festival, which runs on Feb. 16 and 17, offers several opportunities for artists in and around Oxford. These opportunities include the chance to direct, act and have artists’ very own work brought to life on the stage. There will be a variety of content for all sorts of theater fans to enjoy. Around the end of the school year, Devon Willamson’s comedy “The Old People Are Revolting” will premiere in April. The play follows a group of retirees banding together to retain their right to senior discounts on utilities. There will be catering by Moe’s BBQ

and drinks will be provided.

Aside from the theater productions, the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council will present the 2023 Oxford Blues Festival from Oct. 12 to 14. Several art showcases and classes will be held in The Powerhouse facility. The festival will not be a Powerhouse exclusive event, however, as it will also take place at the Lafayette County Arena and the J.D. Williams Library on the Ole Miss campus.

Find out more about these events at oxfordarts.com.

Powerhouse in Oxford.

PHOTO: HALEY CHILES / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Jessica Thompson and Jade Long of Hotel Fiction performing on stage at Proud Larry’s on Aug 26.

PHOTO: YASMINE ANDERSON / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Lauren Watkins: from Ole Miss to Music City

LYDIA WATERS

Lauren Watkins, a Tennessee native and a recent University of Mississippi graduate, is expanding her country music career while keeping her experience at Oxford close.

Watkins grew up in Nashville and attended Ole Miss, graduating in 2021 with a degree in integrated marketing communications.

“In a lot of ways, Ole Miss feels like the place my life really started,” Watkins said.

The 23-year-old country singer has many fond memories of her time in Oxford and the community around her. Being enthusiastic about all things musical, she found herself constantly at the Lyric, attending concerts alongside friends.

Watkins began to write more songs as her college years progressed, taking inspiration from ordinary young adult experiences.

“It was really those first college heartbreaks that pulled me to start writing songs in the first place, and I couldn’t stop,” Watkins said.

She sings with a strong alto voice and has a slightly raspy tone makes it seem like she is more world weary than she actually is.

Her voice is not the only authentic aspect to her music. Watkins puts heavy thought and effort into her lyricism. Her clever use of wordplay gives her a distinctive place

GREENFIELD

continued from page 1

and author of “A Place Like Mississippi,” are a part of the advisory committee for the project.

“More than any state in the union, Mississippi depends on its writers to tell its stories. We are a place that has a lot to explain,” Eubanks said. “To tell the full story of Mississippi — and the South in General — we must have a diverse and inclusive group of writers in residence at Greenfield Farm.”

Greenfield Farm will serve as a creative “front porch” to not only native Mississippian writers, but also to those whose work or identity is intertwined with Mississippi. Additionally, the residency

in the country community.

Last April, Watkins’ debut EP, “Introducing: Lauren Watkins,” was released. It features seven songs, ranging from fast-tempo pieces that echo old school rock to slow, meaningful pieces with deeper lyrics.

She likes to use multiple meanings to a sentence or phrase. The unique phrasing in her song “Ole Miss,” such as lines like “the same ole miss you feeling,” gives the listener multiple ways to interpret the lyrics.

“I got to keep growing into myself and writing exactly what I was living in college before moving back home to Nashville to pursue (music) full time,” Watkins said.

She recalls her time in Oxford as a student when crafting her art. In her song, “Ole Miss,” she sings about aspects of Oxford and UM: “We used to take Highway 7” and “those powder-blue eyes.”

These clever riffs give insight into young adult life in Oxford. She expands on specific themes many Ole Miss students can relate to, like broken hearts, game day experiences and enjoying down-home Southern life.

Although Watkins lived out these ordinary collegiate experiences, she was also focused on her artistry, which at times caused her to miss out on things.

“In some ways it was lonely pursuing something like (music) while still in school, but I actually think that’s what forced

program selection process will pay special recognition to those who have been displaced from the state.

“There are more than 40 writers who live in and around Oxford. That’s a fairly large creative community. What the Greenfield Farm project does is bring a group of creative people to Oxford and expand that community several times during the year,” Eubanks said. “Greenfield Farms holds the potential to bring some new voices to the University of Mississippi and the Oxford community.”

Although the infrastructure envisioned to uplift Mississippi’s creative economy is expected to cost about $9 million, the university and donors have provided significant financial support to allow the project to progress expeditiously.

“The fact that our leadership

me to be myself and to be creative on my own,” Watkins said.

Watkins draws songwriting inspiration from popular artists Kacey Musgraves and Natalie Hemby.

“I had never heard more clever one liners until I started listening to Kacey. And her way of making old country so new and dreamy was always fascinating to me,” Watkins said.

Watkins’ connections to her favorite artists extends beyond inspiration, though. Since moving back to Nashville, Watkins

is supporting an ambitious and expensive humanities project that will likely have a big, big impact makes me really proud to be a professor here,” Fennelly said.

By visiting 10 residencies across the country, Edge and collaborators were able to build upon working residency models and create infrastructure catered specifically towards the cultural production of the region.

“At last year’s Mississippi Book Festival, I spoke about the Greenfield Farm project at an event, as we were seeking to expand the funder base of the project,” Eubanks said. “As a writer, I also share with the group what I feel makes a good environment for a residency, which is a clean, well-lighted place to work, a good connection among those who are part of your resi-

has worked alongside Hemby.

“Natalie Hemby was one of the first songwriters I was even aware of. She wrote so many of the songs I grew up loving and ones that got me through huge moments in life,” Watkins said. “Years later, I’ve been lucky enough to work with her, and watching her process is a whole new level of inspiration to me.”

Watkins has enjoyed a successful beginning to her career. After the release of her EP, SiriusXM named her album as The Highway’s new-

dency cohort and opportunities for solitude that spark creativity.”

The residency’s grounds will offer writers across various disciplines the opportunity to write and collaborate within both newly constructed and refurbished studios and communal spaces.

“Because of Mississippi’s contentious history, especially in racial matters but also in economic injustice, a lot of the people who could have been drawn to stay and produce amazing work in Mississippi have felt like it hasn’t been a conducive home for them, and so they’ve gone elsewhere,” Fennelly said. “I think this is kind of an opportunity to have a homecoming for some of those people, you know, who maybe can see some of the positive changes Mississippi has made and want to be a part of it.”

est “Highway Find,” with past winners including Luke Combs and Parker McCollum.

“I just want to be a vessel for the songs I write. I plan to keep putting out music and getting out on the road to play it for people,” Watkins said. “I hope my music reaches as many as possible and that it does for people what music has always done for me. Whether it gets you through tough times or helps you work through emotions, I want to be able to bring that to people for as long as I can.”

With natural walking trails, flourishing greenery and ample spaces for writing, the Southern landscape will serve as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation for upcoming generations of writers as it did for Faulkner many years ago.

“We’re a state that depends upon writers to explain this state and our people in our history to others,” Edge said. “And we also depend upon writers within Mississippi to understand ourselves better and who we are and who we might be.”

More information about Greenfield Farm Writers Residency is available on the Mississippi Lab website.

University of Mississippi alum and country artist Lauren Watkins.

PHOTO COURTESY: CLAIRE SCHAPER

Ole Miss students make the most of summer jobs

For some students, summer break is truly a break from all things productive. For others, summer is an opportunity to gain experience, earn an income and embark on thrilling adventures.

The transition from the classroom to the real world can be quite a shock for any college student seeking to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience. This summer, sophomore journalism major Jack Robertson managed to do just that while splitting his time working as a technical director for ESPN Total Production Services and a member of the Atlanta Braves grounds crew.

For Robertson, working in the sports broadcasting industry has always been a dream. This summer, he ventured into the epicenter of live sports broadcasting. Working behind the scenes with broadcast personalities such as Alyssa Lang and Aaron Murray, Robertson was responsible for prepping shows, running through effects and calling ESPN transmissions to make sure their feed makes it on the network.

“Live television is not for the faint hearted. It is definitely really fast paced, but it does get easier,” Robertson said. “I have grown into my role and truly love the stress and anxiety that comes with it.”

Robertson advises students considering a similar internship to make personal connections during the experience and be willing to make mistakes.

For students like Matthew McCraw, a sophomore accounting major at UM, working in Oxford restaurant Fox’s Pizza Den offered a taste of both a fast-paced environment and a close-knit community. This summer job provided McCraw a break from the usual classroom routine to embrace the dynamic world of the restaurant industry.

Each morning, the pizzeria came to life with the scent of dough rising, ovens preheating and the clicking sound of opening the cash register.

McCraw’s shift started with a warm greeting from coworkers and the satisfying rhythm of wiping tables, making tea, cutting lemons and delivering meals to hungry customers. As the lunch rush approached, the team kicked into high gear, assembling pizzas with

efficiency and precision. Behind the counter, McCraw interacted with customers by taking orders, delivering meals and making sure that every customer was satisfied.

The restaurant environment is not without its challenges. The sweltering kitchen heat during the summer can be overwhelming, but Mc

Craw noted the sense of companionship among the staff.

“Patience is important,” McCraw said. “Some people are easier to work with than others, but it’s the little moments that count, making even the busiest shifts the most enjoyable.”

McCraw shared that his job this summer not only offered him the chance to improve his culinary skills, but also sharpened his work ethic and problem solving skills.

For the past three summers, sophomore pre-med major Maranda Bullard has worked as a camp counselor and infirmary intern at Camp Seafarer, an all-girls camp on the coast of North Carolina.

“I went to camp forever as

a kid, and it just holds a really special place in my heart,” Bullard said. “I’ve worked there for the past three years on staff to give back.”

As a counselor, Bullard led activities and helped campers step out of their comfort zones. She manned the fishing station on the pier, where she taught kids basic fishing techniques.

Bullard said that although being a camp counselor does not directly align with her academic interests, she gained experience that will helps prepare her for a career in neonatal surgery.

As a recipient of the Newman Scholarship, she worked directly with doctors and assisted with campers’ medical needs, such as administering first aid.

When most college students were blissfully asleep during the summer months, junior business major Matthew Green was a first mate on a fishing charter in Virginia Beach.

Green’s days were marked by pre-dawn wake-up calls, unpredictable weather and physically demanding tasks.

“I mean, it’s a lot of work, it’s a lot of super long days, but the money’s really good and you get to meet people every single day,” Green said.

After working with a diverse group of people and interacting with passengers from all walks of life, Green shared that he was able to hone his communication skills while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“I’m a business major right now and I’m in entrepreneurship, so I wanna have my own business one day,” Green said. “It definitely helped me get along with people and learn how to keep people entertained all day, especially when fishing was slow”.

From this experience, Green decided that he would like to pursue a career where he will spend time near the water, whether he works in charter or commercial fishing or giving site tours.

Summer jobs not only offer a chance to explore different fields, but also equip students with essential skills that will shape their future endeavors.

CARTOON: LIBBY FLANAGAN / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Matthew Green pictured during his summer break working on a fishing charter in Virginia Beach.

PHOTO COURTESY: MATTHEW GREEN

Who is Pete Golding, and what are the expectations for his defense?

CALEB HARRIS

Lane Kiffin made a splash in the coaching market by bringing in former Alabama defensive coordinator Pete Golding. It was a much-needed adjustment considering the criticism Ole Miss got last season for running a three-man front, which was a big reason the defense struggled. Fans hope that Golding will change that, and there is certainly plenty of reason to believe it. With Golding leading the Crimson Tide defense from 2018 until this past season, Alabama ranked top-20 in the FBS in scoring defense every year and finished top-10 in either scoring or total defense four times. Bama’s defense last season ranked ninth in scoring defense and 13th in total defense, allowing just 18.2 points per game and 318.2 yards per game.

The 2022 Ole Miss defense ranked 57th in FBS allowing 25.5 points per game, while also surrendering more than 380 yards per game last season. Those numbers are not great by any metric, but things could have been worse.

This is not to say the Rebels did not need to hire Golding, but he is walking into a better situation than people realize. He is a great defensive mind taking over an average defense with a lot of potential, which is a formula for top-25 upside.

Ole Miss is bringing back the core defensive line. Senior DE Jared Ivy, Oxford native J.J Pegues at defensive tackle, senior transfer DT Joshua Harris and senior DE Cedric Johnson headline an elite group of defenders Golding has at his disposal.

The defense also brought in a few transfers that should help fill spots and add more depth. This list includes senior LB Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste and senior safety transfers John Saunders Jr., Zamari Walton, Daijahn Anthony, DeShawn Gaddie Jr. and Teja Young.

During the offseason, Ole Miss recruited 32 defensive newcomers, a lot of whom are upperclassmen. Out of that transfer class came 14 new defensive backs. Getting an experienced defense should make for a smooth transition into the new system Golding is installing.

The defense, at least on paper, has improved and has refueled its edges with new veteran players. It may be a stretch since this is

a new system that Golding is implementing, but considering that a lot of experienced players have been brought in, and

the fact that Golding’s reputation speaks for itself, Ole Miss fans should have high expectations for the defense in 2023.

Alabama defensive coordinator Pete Golding works with linebacker Christian Harris (8) as Henry To’oTo’o (10) listens at left during the NCAA college football team’s practice in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on Aug. 12, 2021.

PHOTO COURTESY: VASHA HUNT / AP PHOTO FILE

PREVIEW

continued from page 1

high note, winning 17-7 against North Alabama. Mercer quarterback Carter Peevy threw for a touchdown along with 115 yards, with running back Micah Bell scoring as well.

For the Rebels, no starting quarterback has been announced by Kiffin. While subtle hints have come from coaches, Dart and the social media team, the spot is still technically up for grabs. However, the expectation is that Dart will be the first to jog out on offense on Saturday.

Even so, it is vital to keep in mind that Sanders will more than likely get some game time, whether it be early on or if the Rebels are up big later in the game.

Sanders has won games throughout his college career, and now he will look to steal the spot from another former transfer. Needless to say, both Dart and Sanders will be competing not just against Mercer but against each other, too.

While the expectation is for the Rebels to win, the first

game of the season is usually never the most pleasing game of football to watch,

so expect some early-season sluggishness and sloppiness. As the kinks are worked

out, the primary focus will be on avoiding injuries and winning convincingly. All

signs point towards the Rebels grabbing their first victory of the season this Saturday.

College football pick ‘em: DM sports writers predict how Week 1 will pan out

Colorado at No. 17 TCU: Caleb Harris

Because of this, Colorado has a legitimate shot at upsetting TCU.

No. 5 LSU at No. 8 FSU: Tanner Shapiro

No. 22 Ole Miss vs. Mercer: Cameron Larkin

Final score prediction: Ole Miss 45, Mercer 10

Although Mercer may be one of Ole Miss’ easier opponents on the 2023-24 schedule, there is much to look forward to in this game.

Fans will follow multiple story lines very closely. For starters, there is another QB competition in Oxford, Miss. The battle between Jaxson Dart and Spencer Sanders will likely roll over into this game, so there will be a microscope on each of them as both inevitably play on Saturday.

How will the new receivers perform? Can Quinshon Judkins replicate his stellar production from a season ago? How will the defense perform?

All of these questions can be answered against Mercer in week one.

Final Score Prediction: Colorado 35, TCU 31

The Deion Sanders era will officially begin this weekend, as Coach Prime and a completely new Colorado roster will try to get the school’s first win over a ranked opponent since 2020. Sanders had an impressive 23-3 record during his final two seasons at Jackson State, going undefeated in the conference play and winning two consecutive conference championships.

TCU is coming off a major Cinderella season, posting an outstanding 13-2 record, 9-0 in the Big 12 and a huge upset win against No. 2 Michigan in the college football playoff semifinals. Another magical season seems unlikely for TCU because the team lost two key offensive weapons in quarterback Max Duggan and receiver Quentin Johnston.

No. 21 UNC at South Carolina: Owen Pustell

Final Score Prediction: UNC 43, USC 30 … bet the over.

It’s not July, but get ready for fireworks because quarterbacks Drake Maye and Spencer Rattler are ready to sling it. Rattler’s best friend will be Antwane Wells. USC lost two great weapons in Marshawn Lloyd and Jaheim Bell, but Wells will be a great matchup against the CBs for UNC.

On the other sideline, the Tar Heels are flexing a re-tooled squad after losing leading receivers Josh Downs and Antoine Green to the NFL. However, replacements Devontez Walker (maybe) and Nate McCollum will make the transition as smooth as possible. I expect Maye to find both main targets early and often as UNC plucks the Gamecocks.

NOTICE OF ENACTMENT OF UNIVERSITY PARKING RULES & REGULATIONS

The University of Mississippi Department of Parking & Transportation (DPT) in Oxford, Mississippi hereby gives notice of enactment of the University’s Traffic and Parking Regulations for the 2023-2024 academic year. These rules and regulations are enacted by the Board of Trustees of the State Institutions of Higher Learning, State of Mississippi, and are effective from and after July 1, 2023. The full text of such rules and regulations are available at www.olemiss.edu/parking the website of DPT.

Final Score Prediction: FSU 31, LSU 27

The week’s biggest game is LSU at Florida State in Orlando, Fla. This contest will be an exciting rematch of last matchup, when FSU won 24-23 in a late-game stunner.

One major storyline for this year’s game is the one-game sus-

pension of LSU defensive lineman Maason Smith. With that being said, I believe the Tigers have enough talent on offense to stay in the game, but the defense will need to get it done for LSU.

FSU has more star power on defense with DL Jared Verse and transfer cornerback Fentrell Cypress II from UVA. These two will help secure a vital week one win as the Seminoles make it happen in Orlando.

CARTOON: LIBBY FLANAGAN / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Too hot to handle

After spending an hour trying to find a parking space, I walked into class with a drenched T-shirt, almost like I had just participated in a half-marathon. Cheers erupted across the classroom: “He did it, he found parking!” “He’s finally on time!” One cry rang out the loudest: “My brother,” sobbed my project partner, “you made it through the heat!” Applause continued for minutes, completely disrupting class, for I had completed a daily pilgrimage from the commuter red parking zone.

Seriously — it’s hot. You don’t need me or a poorly constructed anecdote to tell you that.

2023 is, by many metrics, well on its way to becoming the hottest year ever recorded. And you can feel it, too. The excessive heat index warning on the weather app was seemingly permanent. For months, it has felt trivial to check the app, anyway.

To compound the issue, Mississippi’s naturally sticky, humid air has made 100-degree weather feel beyond scorching. It’s unbearable to be outside for extended periods of time. In this sort of weather, cotton tops and denim bottoms are like tin foil. Zero out of 10, do not recommend.

As of recently, the outdoors has felt less hellish thanks to a particular tropical storm. Though Hurricane Idalia is expected to bring millions of dollars in damage along coastlines, it has already brought a cold front reminding everybody of the mild fall air soon to come.

Nobody wants to march through the heat to get to class or work. It’s a reality we live in, though. What’s worse is that it will likely only intensify in the coming years. The average global temperature is expected to increase by up to three degrees Fahrenheit by 2030, the same year experts have

predicted to be the “deadline” to reverse climate change. Despite all the indicators of where Earth may be headed, American politicians still seem to be doing the bare minimum to address a global issue. This summer, I sat in Washington, D.C., and watched as aliens and kitchen stoves dominated the House floor, rather than legitimate discourse over a global heating issue that’s been well-known for decades now. Inaction is a prerequisite skill to hold public office in many states, I suppose. Special attention should be paid to underserved communities that may not have access to consistent HVAC during heat surges like this. Residents of the Mississippi Delta, in particular, are at risk of developing heat-relat -

ed health issues. Inattention to this region will likely persist, though; our state legislature is too busy picking on Jackson and keeping a microscope between women’s legs.

If you picked this paper up en route to class, by the time you return to your vehicle parked 20 minutes away, it’ll be equivalent to a toaster oven on the interior. Safe travels and stay cool.

Justice Rose is the opinion editor and a sophomore journalism major from Madison, Miss. vehicle parked 20 minutes away, it’ll be equivalent to a toaster oven on the interior. Safe travels, and stay cool.

Justice Rose is the opinion editor and a sophomore journalism major from Madison, Miss.

HOW TO PLAY

Opinion Policies:

Columns do not represent the views of The University of Mississippi or The Daily Mississippian. The Daily Mississippian welcomes letters to the editor, which should be emailed to thedmopinion@gmail.com. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. They may be edited for clarity, brevity and libel. Thirdparty letters and those with pseudonyms or no name will not be published. Letters are limited to one per individual per month. Letters should include contact information, including relationship to the university, if applicable.

your dm reduce reuse Recycle

CLASSIFIEDS INFORMATION

The DEADLINE to place, correct or cancel an ad is 12 p.m. one business day in advance. The Daily Mississippian is published on Thursdays during the academic school year.

Classified ads must be prepaid. All major credit cards accepted. No refunds on classified ads once published.

The DM reserves the right to refuse ads that appear to offer unrealistic or questionable products or services.

DIFFICULTY

CROSSWORD PUZZLE BROUGHT TO YOU BY DOMINO’S

NOW HIRING DRIVERS

Make $12-$18 an hour! at BOTH Oxford locations!

Make $15-$18 an hour!

To place your ad in The Daily Mississippian Classifieds section, visit: http://www.thedmonline.com/classifieds. SOLUTION TO PUZZLE ACROSS

1- Web address starter; 5- ___ Crunch; 9- ___ Blanc; 13- Yorkshire river;

Thin as ___;

Nabisco cookie; 17- Golda of Israel; 18- Like soft-boiled eggs; 19- Tidy, without fault; 20- Biblical gift bearers; 21- Delivery room docs;

Resides;

Spicy stew;

June 6, 1944;

Blast from the past;

Small piece of lean meat;

Elected;

The majority of;

Undoing;

Stumblebum;

Fight, disturbance;

Hindu title;

___ take arms against...;

Cereal grain;

Cooked in oven;

Foundation;

Sanctify;

1/100 of a monetary unit;

Female choir voice;

Offhand;

52- General on Chinese menus;

53- Defense grp. since 1949;

57- Airline to Tel Aviv; 58- Exodus origin; 60- Let’s just leave ___ that;

61- Old Italian money;

62- Theme;

63- Foot part; 64- Den;

65- Word in many college names;

66- Greek goddess of victory;

DOWN

1- Soccer star Mia;

2- ___ yellow ribbon...;

3- Math course;

4- Time spans;

5- King of pop;

6- Island off Venezuela;

7- Gives a bad review;

8- Diarist Anais;

9- Minter;

10- Hurler Hershiser;

11- Oscar winner

Patricia;

12- Small fry;

15- High explosive;

23- Has been; 25Falsehood;

Prescribed amounts;

Chicago’s airport;

Towering;

Nick of “Cape Fear”;

Elephant parts;

city;

Prepare food;

in mind;

Small satellite;

Like the tiny mouth of

Sandwich initials;

social;

46- Blemish; 48- Savory jelly; 49- Unit of an insurgency; 50- Inter

GRAPHIC: SEDLEY NORMAND / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

New crowds, new problems

DAVID RAMSEY thedmopinion@gmail.com

The fall semester has officially begun and with it, the university is seeing its largest enrollment of students yet. Excitement is in the air for returning students to reunite with their friends and for the largest freshman class in Ole Miss history to begin their first semester as college students.

The influx in students makes Ole Miss that much more exciting for students and faculty alike. Gamedays in the Grove will grow into an even bigger experience for Ole Miss fans to enjoy, and football attendance is set to break records in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium with the student section selling out earlier this month. Common spaces for students will be lively.

However, with all this growth comes the exacerbation of a problem that has existed for decades on campus—parking.

Parking has gone from bad to worse within the past year, and it is leaving students more than frustrated. Students with commuter parking passes must arrive on campus much earlier than their class time if they wish to simply find a space.

It is not uncommon to hear stories in which both students and staff waste 45 minutes to an hour patrolling their respective parking zones, hoping a space frees up. Typically, by the time a spot is secured, it is too late. The attendance scanners have already shut off during the 150-student lecture that mandates attendance in its syllabus. Luckily, students usually have three unexcused absences to burn.

For staff, the faculty meeting had already begun thirty minutes before. That means all the dad jokes about the heat and parking are already spent. Instead of being in on the fun, our tardy professor becomes the butt of the joke. Maybe staff

have unexcused absences, too.

To add insult to injury, the Department of Parking and Transportation implemented a rule prohibiting students from backing into their parking spaces. Doing so will lead to a fine. A fine for backing into a parking space is nearly as outrageous as paying hundreds of dollars to park your car on the campus that students are a paying tens of thousands of dollars to attend.

Parking and other infrastructure issues on campus are not as appealing as the Manning Center or a renovated Swayze Field, but that does not make them nonessential. Alumni contributions, the lyceum, administrators who oversee development and even the Associated Student Body have the ability to redirect the campus’s attention to such an issue, but their attempts have not proven strong enough.

Head of the household Chancellor Glenn Boyce is cer -

tainly cognizant of the large enrollment and retention numbers at the university and takes pride in them. He, along with other senior staff in the Lyceum, always use these figures to exemplify how well they are doing at their jobs.

Conveniently, issues on campus and in Oxford are almost never addressed by the faces of the university until something goes terribly wrong. In other words, they issue a statement when they are forced to.

No, I am not saying they should get out there with a construction team and begin erecting a new parking garage—though, the extra hands wouldn’t hurt. What I and the student body are calling for is accountability.

Beyond parking, over-admittance has stressed not only the university campus, but the entire city of Oxford. Oxford, a college city with just about every small town attribute, is

scrambling to develop quickly and accommodate a swollen student population. Five o’clock traffic down Jackson Avenue has worsened, and turning left across the road during busy hours is a task unfit for novice drivers. Simply put, the development of East Oxford is critical if the university wishes to see continued enrollment records shattered. These matters seem simple and it probably is not the biggest issue campus faces. It is certainly up there, though. It is a problem that every single student faces. No student should be fined multiple times for parking backward or need to arrive an hour early to class to find parking. The time has come for swift action. To all the parties responsible, the clock is ticking.

David Ramsey is a sophomore majoring in integrated marketing communications from Madison, Miss.

FOLLOW US ON