The Daily Mississippian September 23, 2021

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Thursday, September 23, 2021

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Volume 110, No. 5

Ian Pigg and Madison Gordon crowned Mr. and Miss Ole Miss Homecoming king and queen runoff elections are today CONVOCATION Professor and New York Times best-selling author Aimee Nezhukumatathil cites wonder and curiosity for a more tender and compassionate world for 2021’s convocation.

SEE PAGE 4

CFB PICK ‘EM: WEEK 4 We’re back and better than ever, baby. Sit back, relax and enjoy people who don’t know sports judge football teams based on vibes.

SEE PAGE 6

HG BIGGS / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Ian Pigg and Madison Gordon hug after being announced as Mr. and Miss Ole Miss.

MARY BOYTE

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The Associated Student Body elections for homecoming king and queen are headed to a runoff election today. Candidates Brianna Berry and Bradford Stewart will face off for the crown while Kenzie Blount and Jay Lee compete for the title of homecoming king.

The runoff election is from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and can be accessed through

MyOleMiss.

Madison Gordon and Ian Pigg were crowned 20212022 Miss Ole Miss and Mr. Ole Miss Tuesday evening.

Berry and Stewart made it into this final round after campaigning against three other students. Berry received 23.03% of the votes, and Stewert received 22.6%.

Berry, a biology major and pre-dental student, is overjoyed to be in the runoffs.

“I am beyond excited and

honored to be a part of the runoffs,” Berry said.

She is ready to continue her campaign, which she has based on encouraging everyone to be the “Berry Best Version of Themselves.”

Berry also acknowledged the benefits and opportunities of Ole Miss that have helped her get here.

“I have been given so many opportunities, friendships and resources that have helped me grow as an individual, and I’m

so honored to be able to continue to share that message,” she said.

Stewart, a senior integrated marketing communications major, said she felt equally grateful.

“I kind of feel like I’m dreaming a bit,” Stewart said, “I’m so excited, and I’m just so thankful for all the support that I’ve gotten these past couple weeks.”

With only two names on

SEE HOMECOMING PAGE 3

TAYLOR BEND Taylor Bend, an apartment complex that primarily houses University of Mississippi students, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, leaving current residents in limbo.

SEE PAGE 5

IHL prohibits MS universities from mandating vaccine VIOLET JIRA

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The Mississippi Institutes of Higher Learning quietly voted to prohibit all public colleges and universities from mandating the COVID-19 vaccine, with exceptions. In the closed meeting, which took place Friday, Sept. 17, the board voted to amend

a previous statement they made and ban universities from mandating the vaccine outright.

On Aug. 27, IHL voted not to mandate vaccines for universities. However, the board fell short of explicitly directing higher education institutions not to mandate the vaccine.

“The Board of Trustees strongly recommends

all eligible students and employees within the university system get vaccinated against COVID-19,” said J. Walt Starr, president of the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning in a statement on IHL’s website. “…the Board does not deem it prudent to require it as a condition of employment or enrollment,

SEE IHL PAGE 2

ILLUSTRATION: MICAH CRICK / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

PAGE 2 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021

IHL

continued from page 1 except at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and other clinical settings.”

The board convened on Sept. 17 and voted to amend their Aug. 27 decision, clarifying any confusion.

“The individual universities have been prohibited by the board from implementing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate as a condition of employment or enrollment except for clinical settings,” Caron Blanton, IHL spokesperson, told The Daily Mississipppian.

Currently, only the University of Mississippi Medical Center has a vaccine mandate in place.

All institutions under IHL have a mask mandate in place.

“The Board, at its retreat/ meeting on Friday, September 17, clarified any confusion around the August 27, 2021 vaccine related motion by voting to rescind such August 27, 2021 motion and by approving the following: except for clinical settings within institutions, centers, departments, and programs, institutions are directed to refrain from mandating the COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of enrollment or employment,” said Blanton.

The decision came after weeks of contention on the University of Mississippi campus regarding the vaccine — both the faculty and Associated Student Body senates passed formal resolutions calling on

the university to mandate the vaccine for the health and safety of students, faculty and staff.

Faculty senate chair for the 2021-2022 school year, Daniel Durkin, shared the faculty senate’s disappointment about the board’s decision.

“The faculty senate is disappointed that the IHL voted to prohibit colleges and universities from implementing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate, especially because the physicians on the board did not support the prohibition,” he said.

All present voting members on the IHL board of trustees voted to pass the amendment, with the exception of trustee and physician Dr. Steven

Cunningham, diagnostic radiologist.

“The Senate feels strongly that a vaccine mandate is the best way forward to be able to maintain face-to-face classes and other aspects of campus life,” Durkin continued.

“We also feel that we have a responsibility to the the City of Oxford and Lafayette County to take extra precautions when the local health care system is strained. We will consider next steps in the coming weeks to address this new development.”

ASB was unable to be reached by the time of publication.

The University of Mississippi has been encouraging all eligible faculty, staff and students to get

vaccinated, and is now offering COVID-19 tests on campus.

“At the University of Mississippi, we continue to do the work of getting students, faculty and staff vaccinated by promoting the effectiveness of the vaccines and by providing numerous and easily accessible opportunities to receive vaccinations on campus,” said Lisa Stone, University of Mississippi Strategic Communications Director.

“So far, the university has administered more than 6,000 vaccine doses to students, employees and the community since we began offering vaccines in the Spring 2021 semester.”

The return of the Grove RUBY DRAAYER

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After 665 days, the most iconic tailgating in all of sports has returned. Thousands of fans flocked back to the Grove for the opening game against Austin Peay on Sept. 11, like they never left.

Oxford was named the best college town in America by ESPN, and if you’ve ever been to the Grove on game day, this should come as no surprise. Each home game for the Rebels, 10

acres of oak trees in the center of campus are packed with red and blue. These tents are adorned with chandeliers, tv’s and plenty of southern food. There is nothing like it in all of college football, and there is a reason why it’s a bucket list spot for so many people.

Despite this being Lane Kiffin’s second year as a head coach, it was his first time attending the Grove and doing the Walk of Champions with his team. Leading up to the game, Kiffin wasted no time gaining attention for his first time, calling

on fans to pack the Grove and Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.

Kiffin got all that and more for his first time through, and his reaction was like all of our first times.

“The Walk was cool. The energy was amazing that early.

To be out there. I know our players and coaches appreciated that and felt the support. We’ve got to keep playing better so we can fill the stadium,” Kiffin said.

Returning to the Grove after COVID-19 raised a few concerns due to safety, as well as the possibility of changing

the southern charm that makes the Grove the environment that it is. The university announced in June that it would officially return to full capacity in the Grove, and since then, people have not looked back.

After walking it this week, I asked one of the veteran tailgaters what their thoughts were on how much it had changed.

“I honestly think the Grove felt no different at all. I saw the same people at the same tents in the same spot with the same Chick-fil-A nugget trays laid out as if the last two years didn’t

happen,” alumni Bob Lynch said.

“It only really hit me that it had been a while when I saw friends’ kids who I haven’t seen in two years. I have friends whose kids are walking and talking now who, last time I saw them, were barely standing.”

The tailgating scene has picked up right where it left off in 2019, with fans from all over coming together again to cheer on their team.

The Grove, and the Rebels, will be back in action on Oct. 9 as Ole Miss takes on Arkansas.

HG BIGGS / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Left: Fans cheer as the Ole Miss Football team arrives in the Grove. Right: Ole Miss Football players wave to fans as the team proceeds down the Walk of Champions.

2022 Ole Miss Yearbook Senior Portraits When:

October 11-15 October 18-22 October 25-29

Scheduling: www.ouryear.com (school code 141)

Where:

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Questions?

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SENIORS (Class of 2022): Schedule appointmetns at www.ouryear.com. School code: 141 or call 1-800-OUR-YEAR (1-800-687-9327). CDC-recommended guidelines will be followed.

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THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PAGE 3

HOMECOMING

continued from page 1 the ballot for homecoming king, the race also continues for Blount, who received 47.9% of the votes, and Lee, who received 45.81%.

In such a close race, Blount, a general business major, acknowledged the apprehension he is feeling while continuing into a runoff.

“Not gonna lie, I’m feeling a little defeated,” Blount said. “But, I’m also super just pumped. Forty-seven percent of people that voted decided that they wanted me to be their king.”

Blount plans to continue his campaign based on embracing your individuality to victory on Thursday.

Lee, a senior social work major, shared similar sentiments.

“I feel excited, tired but excited,” Lee said.“Thank you Ole Miss for voting and I hope more of you vote for me Thursday.”

Lee said he is not done fighting for the title.

“I plan just to reach out directly with students more,” he said. “With an in-person election, I’m taking full advantage of those special interactions. I can’t wait.”

Lee hit on something very important about this year’s election. It’s in person. After a full year of Zoom classes, students are back on campus and interacting with each

other face to face. This had a huge effect on the campaigns and voter turnout, as the election received the second highest voter turnout in Ole Miss history with 6,146 overall votes.

ASB Attorney General Grace Dragna acknowledged this change.

“I think (the election) went really well, and I think we can see that in our voter turnout,” Dragna said. Dragna credits the excitement of being back on campus for the high numbers.

“We were back in person campaigning, people were really engaged,” Dragna said “I think it was a really exciting election.”

Gordon, a public policy leadership major and premed student, is elated and ready to step into her new role as Miss Ole Miss.

“I can’t even really put it into words,” Gordon said.

“Overwhelmed, I would definitely say in the best way possible,” Gordon ran on the campaign, “Grow with Gordon,” with her campaign sticker featuring the slogan alongside a tree in an effort to encourage voters to strive for positive change. With an earlier election, Gordon said she hopes she can spend more time bringing about this change.

“My plans are to get to work,” Gordon said. “I’ve definitely been looking forward to the service entity holding this position.”

Pigg, a senior public policy

Madison Gordon celebrates after being announced as Miss Ole Miss. leadership major, said he felt a sense of relief after his big win, stating he felt grateful to know that the student body aligns with him.

“It feels amazing. After a week of campaigning, it’s a lot of pressure off my shoulders,” Pigg said. “It feels awesome to just know that the majority of the university identifies with what I’m trying to do.”

Pigg, like Gordon, is eager to get started under his new title after some much-needed rest.

When asked what he is planning to do next, Pigg

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night.

Hailey Hagemann was elected senior maid, Mary Patton Murphy as junior maid, Laura Logan Flowers as sophomore maid, and Mary Calloway Rogers as freshman maid.

The female campus favorites are Sally Adcock, Channing Bridges, Lindsey Nosef, Maggie Smith and Grace Walsh.

The male campus favorites are Caleb Bloodworth, Beau Broussard, Darian Dotson, Cameron Evans and Jacob Knight.

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said, “Well, I’m going to sleep and clean my room. I really want to spend a lot of time loving on the people who supported me so much, then I really want to dive right in.”

In addition, Pigg said he is looking forward to working with Gordon on the philanthropy component of the job.

Along with Gordon and Pigg securing their victories and the homecoming queen and king races going into runoffs, the winners for maids and campus favorites were also announced Tuesday

HG BIGGS / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

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PAGE 4 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021

NYT best-selling author speaks at convocation LANDON PRESTWOOD thedmnews@gmail.com

The University of Mississippi community convened Tuesday night for the annual fall convocation.

The event, which is held yearly to welcome first-year students to campus, was rescheduled twice. The event was finally held Tuesday night in the Ford Center, where some students were invited to attend in person and others were invited to view a livestream.

Aimee Nezhukumatathil, an Ole Miss English professor and an award-winning author of newest book “World of Wonders,” spoke to the class of 2025 about the importance of curiosity and wonder, on Tuesday at the university’s convocation.

While teaching creative writing to kindergartners, Nezhukumatathil said that she never had to teach students the ability to be curious, how to ask questions or how to wonder.

“As we get older, that sense of wonder and curiosity is taken out of us, and it’s so important that we don’t let this happen,” Nezhukumatathil said. “We need to remember how to have wonder and curiosity without a [charging] cord, and without electronics.”

Nezhukumatathil discussed other themes from her novel, such as insects and fireflies. The themes were meant to have people connect and reflect with memories from their younger selves, in order to embrace and engage with nature.

“Seventeen out of 22 of my students had never seen a firefly or lightning bug before,” Nezhukumatathil said. “One of the saddest days of my life was when I actually had to pull up a YouTube video to show my students that there are actually glowing insects that exist.

JESS COOLEY / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

A select number of students were allowed to attend 2021 Convocation after the event was moved from the Grove to the Ford Center due to rain.

Nezhukumatathil said that vulnerability and curiosity, just like nature, connect people to one another for the better.

Nezhukumatathil encouraged students to allow themselves to wonder and be curious during their college years.

“Allowing yourself wonder and astonishment means you don’t have all the answers,” Nezhukumatathil said. “You don’t know all there is to know about everything, so this wonder and curiosity gives you the ability to learn, grow, and depend on others

— and this in turn keeps us all connected.”

Nezhukumatathil also related her latest book to the world’s current political system, a system in which she saids people have lost the ability to be understanding.

“Wonder and curiosity break the walls of gatekeeping,” Nezhukumatathil said. “We are political by our noise and by our silence. Being curious about our communities and finding shared interests is how we fix this.”

Nezhukumatathil finished her speech by leaving listeners with what she called her most important advice.

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mindset and reminded me to slow down and really enjoy the first few weeks of my freshman year.”

The Class of 2025 Convocation ceremony also featured key speeches from Chancellor Glenn Boyce, Provost Noel E. Wilkin, and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Charlotte Fant Pegues. “‘World of Wonders’ is a perfect lense for you to use to explore the world at this pivotal point in your life as you embark on your college education,” Boyce said. “Let it serve as a gateway for all your future experiences.”

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“Do you want to graduate from college with the same mentality that you came in with? No growth whatsoever?”

Nezhukumatathil said.

“Here’s the secret: No matter your background, wonder is required for transformation.

Use it.”

Weston Harris, a freshman business major, said Nezhukumatathil’s book offered him a new perspective while transitioning to life as an Ole Miss student. “[‘World of Wonders’] helped me sort of stop and smell the roses,’” Harris said. “It helped me come into college with a more positive

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THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PAGE 5

Bankruptcy leaves Taylor Bend residents in limbo CASSIE MORRISON

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Taylor Bend, an apartment complex that primarily houses University of Mississippi students, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, leaving current residents in limbo.

Residents have repeatedly reported unresponsive management, poor living conditions and numerous water and power outages.

Deunte Ragland, a junior business major at the University of Mississippi, lived at Taylor Bend from August 2020 to June 2021 and had countless issues with management.

“It was horrible,” Ragland said.

“The managers never answered the phone...my air conditioner and dishwasher broke in April and never was fixed. We filed several maintenance requests and even called them and got no reply.”

The Taylor Bend Apartment complex on Old Taylor Road was scheduled for auction on Aug. 4 due to foreclosure, according to The Oxford Eagle.

But Nelson Partners, the owners of Taylor Bend, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy 30 minutes beforehand.

Nelson Partners has not responded to repeated requests for an interview.

According to the United States Courts, Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code generally provides for reorganization, usually involving a corporation or partnership. A Chapter 11 debtor usually proposes a plan of reorganization to keep its business alive and pay creditors over time.

During the year Ragland lived there, he was never able to access the gym or the pool. The pool at the apartment complex is a murky, green color. Ragland also stated that the complex was always covered in trash and the grass was never cut.

Jertonya Mays lived at the complex for over two years and when she began having issues with an unstable roommate who made her feel unsafe, her requests to change roommates or rooms were ignored. Even though it was property management who had originally placed them together, she was told by the management there was nothing they could do.

“The management is poor and the property manager and the assistant really don’t help,” Mays said.

This past July, the severity of the situation made itself clear to residents when all 80 units lost water and power.

“We tried for weeks in early or mid July to reach out to the Taylor Bend Apartment complex regarding delinquent bills, which were two months past due. We received no response from Taylor Bend,” Rob Neely, the general manager of Oxford Utilities, said.

On July 21, Oxford Utilities disconnected water, sewer and sanitation services to the apartments and single office building at Taylor Bend. A few hours later, Oxford Utilities was informed that there was a potential new owner of the complex and that a payment would be made.

“We restored water service on the same day, July 21, before noon. Payment was made in full shortly after that,” says Neely. “It turns out that there was not a new owner, but the utility payment was made by a bank with a financial interest in the complex.”

Despite water services being restored, residents still reported having no power. Nichole Lloyd, a resident at the complex for a year, claimed that she did not have power for an entire month.

Alderman Brian Hyneman met with residents to provide them answers about the status of the complex prior to the owners having declared bankruptcy.

Hyneman assured the residents that, despite the complex not paying their utility bill, the utilities for the complex would stay intact.

“It is my understanding that the property owner has done nothing in the way of communication,” Hyneman said.

Adam Lalejini lived at Taylor Bend from August 2020 to August 2021 and said that management made no attempt to contact the students about the ongoing issues.

“The only communication the residents received from property management was an email saying Taylor Bend was ‘under construction,’” Lalejini said. “It was not until Alderman Brian Hyneman met with residents that they received any information about what was happening.”

Residents of Taylor Bend in its

final months were continuously left wondering what was occuring in their apartments and what the future would hold.

“That was the most information that residents had received from anyone to that point,” Lalejini said, “but it left many of us incredibly nervous about what implications that would have for our leases, especially since my roommates and I had renewed our contract in January for the 2021-22 academic year.”

On Aug. 10, Lalejini heard leaking coming from the A/C unit.

After opening the A/C unit closet, “the damp earthy smell of mold was overwhelming.”

The board of plywood underneath the unit had soaked up all of the water, resulting in excessive leaking.

“Moisture had spread over the walls and into the carpets.

Soon after, there were actually mushrooms growing through the floorboard and out on top of the carpet,” Lalejin said.

Lalejini began to feel physical effects from his contaminated unit and says his eyes constantly burned. After putting in an emergency request, he received no response from management.

“The repairs needed to be made were substantial,” Lalejini said, “All the while, the rest of the property was falling into increasing disrepair. Several other units in our building were trashed, abandoned and left unlocked. Garbage was piled high on balconies, stairways and scattered throughout the parking lots.”

Lalejini and his roommates sought legal advice and were successfully able to terminate their leases on the basis of health and safety concerns. They were also able to find an apartment complex with a vacancy.

“We were fortunate, but I can’t help but sympathize with all of the other residents who tried to move out over the next week, who likely had nowhere to live other than Taylor Bend’s neglected apartments,” Lalejini said .

Desiree Hensley, the Director of the Housing Clinic at the University of Mississippi, said in an email that she had received multiple calls from residents at Taylor Bend. The Housing Clinic assists individuals or families facing eviction or foreclosure.

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The pool at Taylor Bend sits empty after the company owning the apartment complex filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Residents’ claims of poor management have predated any indication of foreclosure or bankruptcy. Reviews on Google for the property dating back to two years ago reveal reports of mold, uncleanliness and a difficulty with getting management to respond to maintenance requests.

Nelson Partners owns 20 student housing complexes across the country with residents complaining of similar issues.

Google reviews for The Alpine Flats apartment complex located near Utah State University revealed that residents did not have internet access or hot water for weeks at a time and maintenance requests almost never got completed.

“Maintenance requests are not a priority, even when made as an emergency level request,” Lauren Broadhead, a previous resident, wrote in a Google review.

According to a May 18, 2021, New York Times report, Nelson Partners has been accused of running a “ponzi-like scheme” with the Skyloft Austin Student Housing complex, one in which investors were impressed by a

shiny high-rise. Investors told The New York Times they were “taken for a ride by a group of professional real estate investors who raised tens of millions of dollars from people like them to finance the purchase of the student dorm.” The investors told The New York Times that they don’t know where the money went or who owns the building today.

In a statement to The New York Times, Nelson Partners denies any wrongdoing and blames the firm’s financial difficulties on the pandemic and the hedge fund company that financed the building.

Hyneman said that he has had multiple calls from parents of students who had leases, but wanted to backpedal after seeing the condition of the complex. He said that many residents have left the complex, although he has no exact figures.

“Although in bankruptcy, the complex continues to operate, however poorly that may be. If a resident chooses to stay, the lease must be honored,” Hyneman said.

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PAGE 6 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021

CFB pick ‘em: Week 4 STAFF REPORT

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Oh, you thought you could get rid of us? It may be a bye week for the Rebs, but the grind never stops here at The Daily Mississippian.

However, much like our football team, the sports desk will also be taking a step back this week. This time around, we’ve got members of the editorial staff giving it their best shot, but be warned: we have no knowledge of football.

Buckle up, buttercup; you’re in for a good read.

No. 7 Texas A&M at No. 16 Arkansas: Kate Kimberlin, arts and culture editor Final Score Prediction: 3-4 As much as I am a (sort of) proud Texan, I simply cannot pass up an opportunity to publicly announce my hate for Texas Agricultural and Mechanical University. No hate to some of my lovely friends that go there, but I believe that this game will bode better for the Razorbacks. And I’m not just saying that because I had to Google the SEC West ranking.

I just genuinely like to see A&M fans be humbled every once in a while. And don’t get me wrong, the Razorbacks shouldn’t get a break either,

that’s why my score prediction is so low. But of course, don’t listen to anything I say. I have trouble remembering who plays against Ole Miss every week.

Tennessee at No. 11 Florida: Londyn Lorenz, opinion editor Final Score Prediction: 49-10

mean look at him. My money is on Wisconsin.

No. 24 UCLA at Stanford: Maddy Quon, editor-in-chief Final Score Prediction: A number and a smaller number.

UCLA wins. Go Bruins.

Based on the number, or lack thereof, next to the teams above, I think Florida will easily beat Tennessee this weekend. Florida’s explosive performance against Alabama last week would agree.

There might be a little too much orange for me to actually watch the game, but I do like Gatorade, so I’m happy for Florida. While I don’t necessarily care about how the game turns out other than my pride of being correct, I do have a sense of satisfaction seeing Peyton Manning’s alma mater taking an L; if only he would’ve gone to Ole Miss instead… It’s not that I have an issue with the Mannings, I’d actually consider myself a huge Manning fan! I just like when people feel the consequences of their choice of not going to Ole Miss (which hopefully Arch will never have to experience).

Okay, let’s think about this. Stanford might have a home-field advantage since the game is at Stanford Stadium, but UCLA is ranked (24 is barely cutting it, but it’s a number, so good for them).

As someone from Southern California, I feel inclined to root for UCLA. Not at all because some of my best friends go there, or because one of them is supposed to send me a UCLA shirt (Sophia, if you’re reading this, I want my shirt). The only good thing about Stanford that comes to mind is Katie Ledecky. She’s a national treasure, and for some reason has liked my comments on Instagram. Also, while we’re at it, why is Stanford’s mascot a tree? That’s strange. I don’t get that. They’re called the Cardinals, but their mascot is a tree. If you want a new sleep paralysis demon, look up the Stanford mascot. For real.

Wow. I’m getting off topic.

Anyway, go Bruins.

No. 12 Notre Dame at No. 18 Wisconsin: Jacob Meyers, managing editor Final Score Prediction: 42-14

No. 25 Kansas State at Oklahoma State: Zach Spooner, copy chief Final Score Prediction: 27-21

Due to my lack of knowledge of football, I am judging based on mascot appearance and who would win in a fight. Notre Dame sports someone in a leprechaun costume as their mascot, while Wisconsin is represented by a suspicious looking badger named Bucky.

Badger attacks on humans are rare, but badgers have a reputation of being fearless.

Meanwhile leprechauns are comparable to a degenerate fairy. Humans might be at the top of the food chain, but there is something about that badger. Bucky could take a leprechaun’s gold anyday, I

Kansas State’s main quarterback, like usual, is already injured. Despite this, Kansas State is still 3-0 this season. One the other hand, Oklahoma State only beat Boise State with a late field goal block.

I’m rooting for Kansas State because my parents told me to (they both went there). So, go Wildcats (not the “High School Musical” ones)! Seriously though, I am a big fan of Kansas State.

Oklahoma State is a worse version of Oklahoma and Chris Klieman always beats Oklahoma, so I think the Wildcats will win this one.

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THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PAGE 7

Ole Miss Volleyball unbeaten AVERY LUPTON

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The Rebels continue their winning streak, sweeping the Indiana Invitational with three wins. The Ole Miss Women’s Volleyball team completed their non-conference schedule undefeated for the second time in history since 2014.

The Rebels remain the only undefeated team in the SEC moving forward to conference play next week.

To begin the Indiana Invitational, the Rebels are matched up against Chicago State. In a close match, Sam Burgio led the team with 16 digs, contributing significantly to the 3-1 win against the cougars.

The second match took place against Alabama A&M. Freshman Julia Dyess played for the first time this season and had 11 kills and 6 digs against the Bulldogs.

Beating Alabama A&M in three straight sets, the team attained a total of 17 digs,

35 assists and 32 kills. The Bulldogs were no match for the Rebels, winning their sets 25-14, 25-9 and 25-9.

During the final match of the Indiana Invitational and non-conference season, HG BIGGS / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN Ole Miss faced Indiana out Aubrey Sultemeier and Kylee Mclaughlin celebrate after the Rebels score a point. of the Big Ten, winning in three straight sets. Kylee McLaughlin single-handedly had 35 assists and three aces in this match. Samantha Shnitta had another great showing, earning 14 kills and two aces. The last set was a battle between the Rebels and the Hoosiers, ending in a final score of 26-24 after two straight kills to finish off the match.

Ole Miss Women’s volleyball is off to a triumphant start, and will next play in their SEC opener on Sept. 22 in Auburn, Alabama against Auburn University. This will be a test for the Rebels as Auburn is 8-1 this season, losing only to Florida A&M 2-3 at home.

The match is set to start at 8 p.m. and will stream on ESPN U.

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Ole Miss earns 2-1 victory over Georgia Southern JANE ROB PANNELL

thedmsports@gmail.com

The Ole Miss soccer team dominated possession throughout their 2-1 win over Georgia Southern. Despite extremely wet conditions, the Rebels were still able to get off a total of 29 shots and held the Eagles to only three shots.

The Rebels attacked the goal from the first whistle, pressuring the Eagle defense with eight shots within the first 13 minutes of the match.

During the 19th minute, the Rebels were finally able to locate the back of the net.

Taylor Radecki sent in a long cross to Jenna Kemp on the far post. Kemp sent a header back across, and Haleigh Stackpole finished the pass

sequence off by easily tapping it in with her head to put the Rebels up 1-0.

Ole Miss outshot Georgia Southern 16-2 in the first half of the contest, but were forced to settle with only a 1-0 lead.

The Rebels stayed determined throughout the second half of play, searching for another goal. In the 53rd minute, Ramsey Davis was able to contribute the second goal of the game, as well as her first goal of the year.

Stackpole made a run down the field and fired a shot at the Eagles keeper, who was able to get a hand on the ball.

Davis, determined to score, followed up Stackpole’s shot for an easy tap-in, putting the Rebels up 2-0. This put Stackpole at 10 assists on the

season.

However, the two-goal lead did not last long. A short three minutes later, Georgia Southern forward Ellis Nemtsov fired a shot past the outstretched arm of Rebel goalkeeper Ashley Orkus.

Ole Miss maintained control throughout the remainder of the contest, but were unable to double their lead The win over Georgia Southern helped the Rebels finish out non-conference play with a record of 5-1-2, alongside their single SEC win. Ole Miss heads back into SEC play as they take on the LSU Tigers, Thursday at 6:00 p.m. in Oxford. The game will be streamed on SEC Network +.

HG BIGGS / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Channing Foster and Taylor Radecki attempt to score against Middle Tennessee in a match on Aug. 26, 2021.

Ole Miss Tennis falls short at Milwaukee Tennis Classic CALEB HARRIS

thedmsports@gmail.com

The Ole Miss Women’s tennis team opened up their season at the Milwaukee Tennis Classic over the weekend where two Rebels had their tournament runs cut short. Sabina Machovlana made a name for herself during her tournament run, as she was able to win her first

three single sets. This earned her a slot in the quarterfinals where she ultimately fell short. Machovlana, the top seed in singles, fell to No. 7 University of Southern California’s Naomi Chang in two sets that both started with Machovlana finding herself in a hole.

Ludmila Kareisová was defeated in the singles tournament by No. 4 Oklahoma’s Carmen Corley

in the opening round, ending her tournament run early Sunday.

Kareisová was able to win a total of eight games in the match along the way.

Kareisová was able to qualify in the doubles quarterfinals round alongside Machovlana. The pair was dominant on their way to the quarterfinals after winning their first match 6-3 against Portland’s Sally Pethybridge

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and Iva Zelic.

However, The duo fell short to the No. 2 seed Bronte Murgett and Marta Oliveira of Missouri by a small margin.

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again 4-4 until the Tigers ran away with the game with a final score of 6-4. Machovlana and Kareisová’s next outing will be at home for the Ole Miss Fall Invite. The event begins Friday at 9 a.m. and goes through next Sunday, Sept. 26.

THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PAGE 9

NFL week 2 roundup OWEN PUSTELL

thedmsports@gmail.com

Another great week of NFL football is in the books and with eight of the 16 games being decided by one possession, there’s a lot to unpack. In the NFC, the 49ers slugged out a 17-11 victory over the Eagles, but the win came at a cost, as they lost all three of their active running backs in the 4th quarter. San Francisco can ill-afford to be plagued by injury as they try to compete in an NFC West division which has lost just one game cumulatively.

That loss came last weekend at the hands of Derrick Henry (and I guess technically the rest of the Titans) whose 237 yard effort spoiled the Seahawks home opener in a 33-30 OT thriller. For Tennessee, the win was much needed as they look to make their name as a heavyweight in the AFC. However, the game of the week was the Sunday night matchup between the Ravens and Chiefs, which produced the first of our winners/losers from this week.

Winner – Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens Final Score: Baltimore Ravens 36, Kansas City Chiefs 35 “Big Truss” earned his nickname on Sunday night by accounting for 346 yards, three touchdowns and being the franchise quarterback that Baltimore needs. Lamar once again showed his composure and intelligence by being patient in the pocket, finding open receivers and delivering accurate passes. Yes, his athleticism and rushing ability are elite, but he has evolved as a passer to the point where his skills through the air are just as refined and dangerous.

Those who support the view that eventually the NFL will “figure Lamar out” were punching the air after watching on Sunday. Every season it seems there’s a new narrative, a new white whale for Lamar to hunt.

On draft night, critics were skeptical of whether his skill set would transfer to the pro level. 2019 NFL MVP. Last season it was his inability to

win a playoff game that would hold him back. Ravens 20, Titans 13. This season there was just no way he could beat Patrick Mahomes and the back-to-back reigning AFC champions. Ravens 36, Chiefs 35. Lamar has been doubted at every stage of his career, and has always responded in the same way. A cheerful smile, an electric performance, and

eyes well and found seven different receivers on the day.

An opening day victory over the Jets is nothing to write home about, but it showed that Darnold was meshing with his receivers, fitting the system well and understanding how to execute. Week two was scheduled to be a better test, with the Panthers taking on

after checking his former team’s box score. Darnold, who served as the Jets quarterback for three years before getting traded, faced backlash for failing to produce wins during his tenure in the Meadowlands despite having a terrible roster around him.

After flipping the former 1st round pick, the Jets then cashed in their No. 2 overall

ILLUSTRATION: MICAH CRICK / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

a subtle mic drop.

Winner – Carolina Panthers Final Score: Carolina Panthers 26, New Orleans Saints 7 When GM Scott Fitterer took a gamble on former Jets quarterback Sam Darnold, the reaction was mixed.

There were those who thought that Darnolds struggles in New York were primarily his fault, and that blaming the team around him was a lazy excuse for a high draft pick who didn’t work out. Then there were those (myself included) who felt it was unfair to judge Darnold when his team was disorganized in the front office, uncoordinated on the sideline, and untalented on the field.

In week one, the USC product played host to his former team and spared little hospitality, handing them a 19-14 loss. Darnold, who accounted for both of his teams touchdowns, used his

the divisional powerhouse Saints who were coming off a statement week one win against the Packers.

This time, Carolina won with confidence and dominance. Darnold threw for over 300 yards and a pair of touchdowns while the defense dug in and made problems for Jameis Winston. Jameis, who looked sharp against Green Bay, was sacked four times and intercepted twice by the Panthers, whose defensive unit looks to be one of the league’s best.

The Saints had a depressing 128 total yards of offense and were smothered from start to finish in both the run and pass game. For perspective, four individual receivers had more yards in week two.

Loser – Zach Wilson, New York Jets Final Score: New York Jets 6, New England Patriots 25 Sam Darnold was surely laughing in the locker room

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pick for Zach Wilson, who will soon take the role of franchise scapegoat when he undoubtedly also struggles to win games.

Okay, enough history, now back to Sunday. What happened to Zach Wilson last weekend was sad, disappointing and if you’re Sam Darnold, at least a little funny. Wilson was straight up not safe behind his offensive line, whose best contribution to the game was picking their mangled quarterback up off the turf.

The Patriots defense registered four sacks and an additional seven QB hits, which means that Wilson got knocked down on a third of his 33 dropbacks. That’s insane. There’s a famous saying that goes “pressure makes diamonds” which, while motivational, was proven false by Wilson, who threw four interceptions en route to a pitiful 37.0 passer rating.

While it is just the second

game of his career, dejected Jets fans everywhere are surely getting flashbacks to the numerous times their franchise has drafted “The truth” at quarterback. Of course, those truths have all turned out to be lies told to them by a franchise whose greatest accomplishment came in 1968. That’s before the first Star Wars was released.

Loser – Indianapolis Colts Final Score: Indianapolis Colts 24, Los Angeles Rams 27 This season has been a tough pill to swallow for Colts fans, who spent all offseason talking about how their team was going to be able to contend with the Titans for the division. That has not been the case through two weeks.

The stout defense that kept offensive coordinators up at night has been exposed, allowing 27+ points in both of their opening contests, and giving up a combined 752 yards of offense. On offense the story is similar.

The Carson Wentz move has not paid dividends as he has already missed time due to injury, forcing backup Jacob Eason into action.

The run game has felt the effects of the drop in pass production, with defenses no longer threatened deep, stacked boxes have become routine, and effective. Of the running backs on the Colts roster, none are averaging 4.0 yards per carry on the season, a sad mark for an offensive line unit which prides itself on running the ball. While it is still early and there is certainly time to turn things around, the Colts have already dug themselves an early season hole, and climbing out in a competitive AFC will be difficult.

Rebel Recap DK Metcalf – 6 catches, 53 yards (Seattle Seahawks 30, Tennessee Titans 33) AJ Brown – 3 catches, 43 yards (Tennessee Titans 33, Seattle Seahawks 30,) Elijah Moore – 4 catches, 47 yards (New York Jets 6, New England Patriots 25) Dawson Knox – 2 catches, 17 yards, 1 touchdown (Buffalo Bills 35, Miami Dolphins 0)

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PAGE 10 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021

Renée Fleming performs at the Gertrude C. Ford Center WILL JONES

thedmf eatures@gmail.com

Students and adults of all ages from across Mississippi packed into the Gertrude C. Ford Center on Monday night to welcome Grammy-award winning singer Renée Fleming, who was accompanied by pianist Robert Ainsley.

In a wonderful two-hour concert, the famed soprano ran the gamut of musical styles, compositions and even languages, from the likes of classical musicians such as Handel and Strauss, to the more contemporary stylings of Rodgers and Hammerstein.

The conclusion of every set garnered rapturous applause, with Fleming interstitially

offering insights into the various works, both to provide historical context and to discuss the pieces in relation to her latest album, “Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene.”

Despite spectators arriving in droves, Fleming ironically began with “And the People Stayed Home,” a prose poem by Katherine O’Meara, which served as not only a great opener, but a salient examination of the past year in isolation.

The ballad, adapted by composer John Corigliano, required no instrumentation, beginning the evening on a collective note of subtlety and contemplation.

The extraordinarily restrained style of the number was integral in bolstering

Fleming’s main purpose for the overall performance, with themes of nature, romanticism and the purity of the natural world permeating every selection and performance within.

Fleming discussed how the pandemic forced her to truly experience the natural world, of which she had simply taken for granted, with these circumstances serving as the inspirational backbone for her latest album.

“Nature has been great to us, but we have not been so great to nature,” Fleming said.

Fleming then delved into numerous classical compositions, expressing a wide-range of tones and tempos, and fluctuating

PHOTO COURTESY/ WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

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to appropriately poke fun at herself, garnering both laughs and applause, but applause in a different sense.

The audience was encouraged to clap along, leading to a terrific sense of unity, and serving as a vital reminder of the beauty and power of live performance, thematically tying back into the opening song.

The electric atmosphere prompted Fleming and Ainsley back on stage twice more, concluding with an aria by Puccini and “I Could Have Danced All Night” from “My Fair Lady,” sending the audience off in a serenading sing-along, and prompting a cheerful, and highly deserved, standing ovation.

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THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021 | PAGE 11

OPINION

ILLUSTRATION: VANESSA CLARK / THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN

Disabilities are overlooked on campus

LONDYN LORENZ

thedmopinion@gmail.com

Life as a disabled student at Ole Miss is as similar to that of a non-disabled student as it is different. I still went to frat parties preCOVID-19, I still go to football games and I still do all the schoolwork my classmates do. I am also sometimes late to class because I couldn’t get across campus fast enough or because the handicap spot I wanted to park in was blocked, and sometimes I’m in such excruciating pain that I can’t focus in class. Such is life. I am just as in control of my academics as many students are, however some things I cannot control force me to need a helping hand along the way. These helping hands, however, sometimes feel few and far between, or I feel that I am a burden for needing this support. Even though the Americans with Disabilities Act ensures this assistance, many people have forgotten what this law dictates or have become so used to handicap accessibility that they don’t

care to ensure it themselves.

I made my way to the Grove before the Austin Peay game, attempting to go as a regular fan, just with a little assistance along the way. I had thoroughly researched Ole Miss Gameday’s ADA parking policies and accommodations.

After parking in the South Oxford Campus’s ADA lot using my handicap parking placard, I approached the shuttle parked 15 feet away from my car to ride to campus.

After getting to the shuttle, however, I was told by the driver that the shuttle was “only for handicap people,” and he tried to dismiss me to ride another shuttle (which is illegal according to the Americans with Disabilities Act, as written on the Ole Miss Gameday website). I was then forced to publicly announce my disability to the driver for him to begrudgingly let me and my friends on, which is incredibly uncalled for and embarrassing. (Yes, I know I was seeking accommodations and thereby admitting my disability, but actually saying it out loud in front of friends

and strangers is so much worse).

Upon arriving on campus, we discovered that the golf carts to the Grove pick up nowhere near where the shuttle drops off and that it was closer to walk up the hill.

Unfortunately, we arrived about 15 minutes before the Walk of Champions, so almost all paths from where we were dropped off were blocked.

We were essentially forced to walk up the crowded, mulchy hill: us and the rest of the disabled shuttle, including a woman using a wheelchair.

Hopefully, I don’t have to tell you how unacceptable it is to force a group of disabled people and their guests into awful conditions, especially when there are supposed to be golf carts used to avoid that exact situation.

Disabled students, faculty and staff face outsideimposed obstacles whether it’s game day or not. Although it is nothing new, this week especially I have noticed people “just stopping for a second” in the handicap parking spots or the lines next

to them, especially to drop off big-little baskets for their sorority. This isn’t to say that Greek individuals are more likely to park in these spots, this is just where I have been affected by it the most.

Disabled students also have the additional burden of acquiring accommodations for their classes, which is done through the Student Disability Services office. As I can personally attest, this process is incredibly long and nerve-wracking. Despite having my initial meeting with the office almost three weeks ago, I only heard back on Wednesday about the status of my accommodations.

With midterms quickly approaching, I was and still am terrified that I won’t have the support I need to succeed. Clerical work and advocacy of course take time, and I understand that this is the busiest time of the year for SDS, so perhaps it is not entirely their fault. That does not change my day-to-day reality though. It also does not change the fact that some professors refuse to abide by

SDS accommodations and the university does little to nothing about it.

To those who do not feel affected by anything in this article: I am happy for you that we do not face the same obstacles. That being said, it should not be the duty of the disabled to advocate for themselves while others couldn’t care less. Maybe it’s an inconvenience to park across the street to unload your big-little baskets for your sorority. Maybe it’s a hassle trying to think of and cater to the needs of disabled visitors to the Grove and Vaught-Hemingway. Maybe it’s time-consuming to do all of the clerical work needed to get disabled students the accommodations they need. I can assure you, however, that it is 10 times as inconvenient, 10 times as much of a hassle and 10 times as timeconsuming to be disabled.

Londyn Lorenz is the opinion editor majoring in Arabic and international studies from Perryville, MO.

Is the Vaught the new COVID-19 vaccine?

WILLOW CROSBY

thedmopinion@gmail.com

With the rise of COVID-19 cases from the Delta variant and other new strains, the policies Ole Miss Athletics have implemented should be held under scrutiny. For instance, at football games fans are not required to wear masks no matter how packed the stands are. This has undoubtedly helped contribute to the COVID-19 outbreak that Ole Miss students, faculty and staff are currently struggling with. Ole Miss should not allow people to risk spreading or catching COVID-19 all because of a football game that fans could watch at home.

It is extremely irresponsible for the University of Mississippi to allow Vaught-Hemingway to be completely filled with no requirements for masks or other safety precautions. Ole Miss is a

well known university that has been in the public eye for a long time; people can easily see the lack of precautions or care that UM has implemented towards the coronavirus disease, especially when it is aired on television for all to see. Not only does it ruin the university’s public image, it directly puts students in danger. Thanks to the Delta variant, people between 18 and 29 have roughly tripled their share of deaths in July and August of this year.

Due to this lack of precaution against COVID-19 at football games, fans are quite literally putting their lives on the line in order to watch a sporting event.

This does not only impact fans, however. The spread of COVID-19 impacts all people on a broader scale than what most individuals think. Because hospital beds are overflowing with COVID-19 patients, it is predicted that Mississippi

hospitals will soon be unable to treat not just COVID-19 patients, but heart-attack and car-accident victims as well. This means that football fans are not only risking their own lives with COVID-19, but actively risking other people’s lives that have no connection to COVID-19.

The University of Mississippi does have some options to keep football games safer for the general public. For instance, some suggest that fans should prove they have been fully vaccinated before entering the stadium. This is not a sure fire way of preventing a COVID-19 outbreak, as the Centers for Disease Control found that fully vaccinated people can spread some strains of the virus.

Instead, fans could show proof of a negative COVID-19 test a set amount of days before a game. This endeavor, however, could become costly for the

university or fans and become a drain on already-dwindling resources. If the university wants to keep the community safe, the best it could do is to not allow fans into the stadium until the virus is under control.

It is silly and irresponsible for Ole Miss to allow VaughtHemingway to be packed with fans with little to no disregard for the pandemic, as the world still actively fights against it.

Not only does it reflect poorly on the morals of the university, but it directly puts people at

risk of getting sick or dying.

This issue not only impacts the people attending the game, but the community as a whole. We as a community of educated individuals must call for change and take care of our fellow man.

Willow Crosby is sophomore majoring accounting from Tupelo.

a in

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.

PAGE 12 | THE DAILY MISSISSIPPIAN | 23 SEPTEMBER 2021

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