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ILLUSTRATION BY MONIQUE ROJAS | THE SIGNAL
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BLOTTER JAN. 21
EDITORIAL NEWS EDITOR Mary A. Brassfield signalnewseditor@gmail.com ASSOCIATE NEWS EDITOR Vacant OPINIONS EDITOR Kenneth Lockett III signalopinions@gmail.com ASSOCIATE OPINIONS EDITOR Callie McNorton ARTS & LIVING EDITOR Jada Jones signalliving@gmail.com ASSOCIATE ARTS & LIVING EDITOR Isa Cordona SPORTS EDITOR Andrew Freedman signalsport1@gmail.com ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR Erik Indrisano COPY EDITOR Miro Georgiev signalcopyeditor@gmail.com PRODUCTION PRODUCTION EDITOR Monique Rojas signalprod@gmail.com ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION EDITOR Myah Anglin PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO EDITOR Matt Siciliano-Salazar signalphoto2@gmail.com ASSOCIATE PHOTO EDITOR Harry Wyman DIGITAL DIGITAL EDITOR Caitlin Whisby signalmanaging@gmail.com ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR Vacant VIDEO EDITOR Andre Walker signalvideoeditor@gmail.com ASSOCIATE VIDEO EDITOR Vacant PODCAST EDITOR Timo Clark THE SIGNAL BUREAUS ALPHARETTA BUREAU CHIEF Vacant CLARKSTON BUREAU CHIEF Chris Bryant DECATUR BUREAU CHIEF Vacant DUNWOODY BUREAU CHIEF Vacant NEWTON BUREAU CHIEF Vacant ADVERTISING STUDENT MEDIA ADVISER Bryce McNeil bmcneil1@gsu.edu BUSINESS COORDINATOR Wakesha Henley whenley@gsu.edu PERIMETER STUDENT MEDIA ADVISER Zoana Price zprice@gsu.edu ADVERTISING The deadline for all advertising is 5 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the desired issue of publication. Ads must be printready and in PDF format; files must be delivered via e-mail at signalmarketingmanager@gmail.com. Please visit our website at www.georgiastatesignal. com/advertise for more information, including rates and payment methods. MISSION STATEMENT The Signal shall provide, in a fair and accurate manner, news of interest and significance to the Georgia State community and serve as a forum for the expression of ideas of members of that community. Furthermore, The Signal shall provide an opportunity for students to pursue experience within a professional newspaper environment. The Signal shall also provide truthful and ethical advertising of interest to the Georgia State community. COVERAGE REQUESTS Requests for coverage and tips should be subwmitted to the Editor in Chief and/or the relevant section editor. SUBMIT LETTER TO EDITOR Letters must be submitted to the Editor in Chief via e-mail and must include the text of the letter in the body of the message. Letters should be 400-500 words maximum. The Signal will allow longer letters, but only in rare circumstances. Letters must include the full name(s) of the writer(s) and include their year and major. If the writer is a faculty member, they must include their title and department. Letters will be fact-checked prior to publication. The writer may be obligated to make changes to the letter for publication. Letters will be edited for grammar, clarity, length, factual accuracy and adherence to The Signal’s policy. The Signal reserves the right to modify and/ or reject letters at the discretion of the editorial staff. DISCLAIMER Opinions and Letters to the Editor expressed in The Signal are the opinions of the writers and readers. It does not reflect the opinions of The Signal. OFFICE INFORMATION The Signal Student Center West, Suite 250 P.O. Box 3968 Atlanta, GA 30303 Phone: 404-413-1620 Fax: 404-413-162
At Sparks Hall, a Georgia State student was the victim of vandalism at 8:11 a.m. The case is still active. JAN. 23
Beware of … well, just beware. A non-Georgia State offender was arrested for criminal trespassing at 6:20 a.m. at University Commons. The individual was exceptionally cleared.
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EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Brooklyn Valera signaleditor@gmail.com MANAGING EDITOR Sharayah Davis signalmanagingeditor@gmail.com MARKETING MANAGER Franky Huang signalmarketingmanager@gmail.com
The world is my canvas.
JAN. 23
19 and 20 fought. 21.
A Georgia State student was arrested for simple battery at Piedmont North at 12:23 a.m. Georgia State University Police judicially referred the student. JAN. 25
I thought this was a shortcut…
At 1:09 p.m., two nonGeorgia State offenders were arrested for criminal trespassing at the Urban Life building. The individuals were exceptionally cleared.
JAN. 26
You all don’t offer fivefinger discounts?
At Student Center West, a non-Georgia State offender was arrested for criminal trespassing and theft at 9:18 a.m. The individual was exceptionally cleared. JAN. 28
I was just blowing off some steam…
A Georgia State student was the victim of criminal property damage at the Andrew Young Policy Studies building at 4:31 a.m. The case is still active.
LOCAL
NATIONAL
GLOBAL
Hamilton Police Chief resigns following racial slur incident
COVID-19 variant found in South Carolina
European Union Enforces New Covid-19 Travel Restrictions
Yesterday, WSB-TV reported that the Hamilton Police Department’s police chief, Gene Allmond, resigned after he and a fellow officer were recorded using a racial slur. Patrolman John Brooks was unaware that his body camera was on during a smoke break with the police chief in front of the police department. The incident happened last year before a Black Lives Matter protest. The Hamilton Police Department also terminated Brooks.
The South African variant of COVID-19 has been found in South Carolina, according to U.S. News and World Report on Thursday. Health officials in South Carolina found two variant cases. The two patients have not traveled recently and health officials were unable to find a connection between them. Experts expect a surge in coronavirus cases and related deaths in response to the globe’s variants.
Monday, The Associated Press reported that the E.U. plans to respond to the new COVID-19 variants by placing more travel restrictions on its residents. All 27 member states are encouraged to continue moving workers and goods across borders. The European Commission believes the E.U. should reinforce testing and quarantine measures as a part of the new travel rules.
NEWS
February 2, 2021
WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/NEWS
Atlanta’s Black History Month celebrations will go virtual, including the Georgia State Multicultural Center’s events.
PHOTO BY HANNA MIDDLETON | THE SIGNAL
Georgia State celebrates Black History Month virtually The history and current state of Black History Month in Atlanta LEAH LI Staff Reporter
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ccording to the Library of Congress, historian Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1925 to “raise awareness of African American’s contributions to civilization.” He then announced Negro History Week, which saw its first celebration in February 1926. Woodson chose February since it is the birth month of both 16th U.S. president Abraham Lincoln and social reformer Frederick Douglass. In 1975, President Ford officially proclaimed Negro History Week a national holiday, encouraging people to “recognize the important contribution made to our nation’s life and culture by Black citizens.” In 1976, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History extended Negro History Week to Black History Month, and President Ford delivered a message about observing the holiday. In 1986, Congress passed Public Law 99-244, announcing February 1986 to be the first “National Black History Month.” According to the law, Feb. 1, 1986 “mark[ed] the beginning of the sixtieth annual public and private salute to Black History.” According to the National Park Service website, “the history of African Americans in Atlanta is synonymous with the history of Atlanta itself, and is one of progress and perseverance.” Being a city with rich African American history, Atlanta has various celebrations for Black History Month. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlantans usually hold festivals and parades for the celebration. However, the 2021 celebrations may change because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Atlanta’s annual Black History Month parade began in 2012, founded by community leader Earl Little. The 2019 Black History Month parade started at Hurt Park and marched 1.08 miles to Centennial Olympic Park. According to the parade’s website, it is “The Largest Celebration of African-American History
Month in the Southeast.” However, like many events in 2021, the staff has canceled the parade for this year. “We had a Magnificent turn out for 2019. Thank You For Your Support. Due to COVID Parade restrictions, we hope to see everyone in 2022. Bringing it Bigger and Better for your Enjoyment. This is a Rain or Shine Event. [Earl Little’s] Legacy Continues,” the parade’s website stated. There is a well-known, Black-owned tour called Hop’N Go Tours for people to discover Atlanta’s rich history through sightseeing. The Atlanta JournalConstitution states that their Day Tour is very priceworthy: “For $125, you can visit Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Madam C.J. Walker Museum and the Sweet Auburn Historic District, to name a few.” Like many events in 2021, Black History Month will look different in Metro Atlanta, with many taking their celebrations to Zoom. Dekalb History Center’s annual Black History Month event, “Growing in Power and Promise,” will operate entirely through Zoom this year. The virtual event explores the contributions of Black families to the Atlanta community. “The DeKalb History Center’s 13th Annual Black History Month program will focus on celebrating the African American families that shaped DeKalb’s and Atlanta’s history from Reconstruction to the present,” the event description stated. The event includes musical selections, genealogy discussions and a panel discussion. Attendees will go to breakout sessions and hear the stories of metro Atlanta’s oldest Black families. “Presenters include reference archivist of the Georgia Archives Tamika Strong, president of South-View Cemetery Association Winifred Hemphill, curator of the Flat Rock Museum Johnny Waites and historian of Decatur’s African American heritage Laurel Wilson,” the Atlanta Journal-Constitution stated.
The event begins on Feb. 11, and tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Georgia State celebrates Black History Month as well. Ms. Tonya Cook, the Multicultural Center program specialist for the Perimeter Campuses, said the Multicultural Center organizes activities such as pop shows on all campuses every February. In particular, the 2020 celebrations were special since February 2020 was the 100th anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance, an African American cultural revival beginning in New York City in 1920. “There were activities held on all campuses. Students watched and took pictures of the Harlem Renaissance dances to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Harlem Renaissance,” Cook said. This year’s theme for Black History Month is “2021 Family Reunion: Celebrating Black Culture, Reviving Our Roots.” “The theme … commemorates Black families gathering to preserve culture and traditions, share information, and celebrate achievements,” the Georgia State Multicultural Center website states. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Multicultural Center will only hold virtual celebrations this year. The Multicultural Center held a Talk Tuesday with TRiO called “We Gon’ Be Alright: Open Dialogue on Race, Restorative Justice and How We Heal Despite Difference.” The talk celebrated the fifth annual National Day of Racial Healing and is now on their YouTube channel. Many professionals spoke in the panel, including student affairs advisor William Britto and politician Devin Barrington-Ward. The Multicultural Center is now calling for program submissions to “capture the essence of the Black Family Reunion.” Students can create art and host film screenings, speakers, discussion and educational events to contribute to the event.
NEWS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
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The new student housing apartment is off campus, includes seven floor plans and various convenient amenities.
PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL
New apartment in Midtown waiting for fall applications Students share their opinions on off-campus housing LEAH LI Staff Columnist
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he Catalyst, a new apartment complex primarily for college students, is coming soon. Located in West Midtown Atlanta, it is “steps from Georgia Tech” and only a 10-minute drive from the Downtown campus. Jessica Nix, senior vice president of marketing and leasing, said the Catalyst community is “intentionally built for local students where all the comforts of home are included, with an amenity package that will encourage academic success, fitness and relaxation.” The Catalyst has seven floor plans with different prices, all fully furnished with individual bathrooms. The cheapest option is a four-room plan for $995 per person per month. The three-room option costs $1,165, the two 2-room options cost from $1,245 to $1,350, and a private room option is $1,655. “Most utilities are also included in that price. The $995 rate is a limited offer and will expire soon.” Nix said. “This has been a popular option for Georgia State students as there is no better deal for a brand new community built in the area.” According to The Catalyst website, the apartment has various convenient amenities, including a fitness center, a bike repair station, an elevated swimming pool, private balconies, 24/7 package delivery lockers, a 55-inch smart TV in each room, and a dog park. In contrast, Georgia State housing only offers halfday mailroom operation, has no TV in rooms, and is not pet-friendly. The only two exceptions are service and emotional support animals, which are only for people with disabilities and service animal trainers. The Catalyst is close to many attractions. There are various restaurants and bars nearby, including Chickfil-A, Eight Sushi Lounge, Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria, and Barcelona Wine Bar. It only takes an 8-minute drive to Piedmont Park and a 10-minute drive to the nearest Krogers. The Catalyst website states that the apartment “seeks to bring you a living environment that will help you elevate your lifestyle, foster lifetime connections, and make your mark during your college years.” Although there are six residence halls on campus, many Georgia State students still prefer living offcampus, like senior Paul Bourlet. Cost is the primary issue for most students. Georgia
State housing website states that the cheapest oncampus residence hall option this year is the large 2-person shared room in Piedmont North, which costs $3,067 per semester. Its total cost for a semester is $5,088 after adding the 7-day mandatory meal plan of $1,971 and housing maintenance fee of $50. “If you can find the right roommates, I think offcampus housing is great because it is usually cheaper and gives you a feeling of independence,” Bourlet said. “The main challenge used to be finding parking at Georgia State, but now because of coronavirus, thankfully, that is no longer an issue.”
“
[The Catalyst community is] intentionally built for local students where all the comforts of home are included, with an amenity package that will encourage academic success, fitness and relaxation.
”
— JESSICA NIX
Senior Vice President of Marketing and Leasing The Catalyst
Freshman Cassidey Nichols thinks the meal plan Georgia State housing offers is not cheap, either. “I chose to stay off campus because I knew I didn’t need a food plan. It saved me a whole bunch of money. I am able to cook my own meals and buy groceries that last instead of the meal plan.” Nichols said. “Also, I have my own bedroom and bathroom, and the cost difference was about $1,200. The apartment was cheaper.” Senior Malina Hubbard, who used to be a Georgia State student, also shared her reasons for choosing offcampus housing. She stayed on-campus during her freshman year, but because of the high cost, she thought “it doesn’t beat off-campus living” even if students can choose their roommates based on personality. According to Georgia State’s housing website, parking costs $400 each semester, which is also too expensive for her. “All freshman year, I didn’t have my car on campus because it was so expensive. Many off-campus housing options have a cheaper parking deck fee or free total,” Malina said. “Dorms are much more expensive than other housing options for students when you do the math.” In addition to the costs, she thinks off-campus apartments provide more freedom to students. Georgia State housing quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Residents also need to regularly check-in with their resident assistants, which does not happen in off-campus apartments. “Plus, some apartments or wherever accepts financial aid, it’s also a little more freedom, and you feel less watched over but still a part of being a student. For example, I remember in Georgia State dorms, we had quiet hours a certain time of night.” Malina said. “Also, off-campus living provides more customization to your rooms and more contemporary spaces sometimes.” Nix said The Catalyst is still under construction and will be ready by August. Its sign-in list for the fall semester is already open. Students can visit their leasing office in-person and apply on the apartment website.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
THE SIGNAL
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OPINIONS
WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/OPINIONS
February 2, 2021
Celebrating Black History Month in 2021 Let’s appreciate Black History Month this year
CALLIE MCNORTON Associate Opinions Editor
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ILLUSTRATION BY MYAH ANGLIN | THE SIGNAL
‘WandaVision’: Only the beginning of Marvel’s Phase Four
Marvel has taken a risk in their slow start, leaving fans unsatisfied DORIAN ROSENBURG Staff Columnist
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hase Three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe ended with the most successful film of all time, “Avengers: Endgame.” With Thanos Gone , Phase Four has finally arrived with the television show “WandaVision” on Disney Plus. The show is centered around Wanda Maximoff and Vision, whose powers were arguably misused in Phase Three. Phase Four, starting with Wanda, is a promising move from Marvel since Wanda Maximoff (a.k.a The Scarlet Witch) is one of the most powerful characters within the universe, playing a significant role in the comics. The first four episodes are now on Disney Plus, and many viewers are unhappy. Its sitcom-based thematic approach and slow-burn storytelling may turn audiences away too soon. But this strategy works for the way that the show is going to be told. Producer Kevin Feige incorporated sitcoms such as “I Love Lucy” and “Bewitched” as inspiration as a strategic plan to unveil one of Wanda’s major power sets.
Wanda is known for her power to warp reality to her will, which explains why Vision is alive in this sitcom world even though he died in “Avengers: Infinity War.” Through each episode of the series, we start to notice that Wanda has lost her sanity after Vision’s death, causing her to bend reality to her desire. This storyline closely resembles the comic book “House of M,” one of the most acclaimed and vital comic books in the Marvel canon. The show’s beginning relied heavily on the comic book source material and departed from Marvel films’ conventional aspects. The departure created some discourse towards the first half of season one. Many audience members have trouble following the different hints and easter eggs within each episode. One significant difference between the comics and earlier Marvel films is the agency S.W.O.R.D. The agency has its relations to its well-known predecessor S.H.I.E.L.D. However, S.W.O.R.D is a much lesser-known bureau specializing in intergalactic crime, hinting at how vast Wanda’s powers may be in later episodes.
This can be seen explicitly in episode four. It is terrific to see Feige incorporate so much information from the comics into the storyline of “WandaVision.” Still, I fear that it will distance audience members too early in the show before any real action occurs. Critics have rallied behind the show as the series progresses. After the debut of the first two episodes, “WandaVision” received an 81% on Rotten Tomatoes. The percentage has recently jumped to a staggering 94%, proving that the show’s later episodes will be worthy of a grand audience. Although “WandaVision” has taken a completely different creative route from other Marvel pictures, one cannot deny that the show will lead to some of the most anticipated films of Phase Four. We will see the third installment of the “Spiderman” franchise and “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Wanda will star in at least one of these films, highlighting that the end of “WandaVision” will uncover what is to come from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
rowing up, Black History Month was learning about figures such as Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr. I never really understood the importance of the month. I was someone who saw people who looked like me in the history books, year-round. For one month only, Black boys and girls saw themselves and what they could achieve. Our schools may have taught us to only focus on Black history for a month, but we should take those lessons with us throughout the year. Finally, the conversations regarding race in America have taken a turn, and it is clear what Black History Month means. A celebratory month is the bare minimum of what Black America deserves, but we should keep it alive. I still say the wrong things and do not always see my microaggressions. I tread lightly around my Black friends, sometimes putting the weight of my shame onto them. It is no one’s job but our own to educate ourselves on proper allyship. It is a journey that feels neverending, but taking the time to participate in Black History Month is an excellent first step to truly seeing each other. Negro History Week started in 1926 to promote and celebrate Black Americans. During the Civil Rights Movement, college campuses turned it into a month-long celebration. Gerald Ford was the first president to recognize the month in 1976. Since then, each year, we participate in Black History Month along with a theme. In 2021, the theme of “Black Family: Representation, Identity and Diversity” investigates the African diaspora and its connection to the spread of Black families within the U.S. There are so many opportunities for us to step outside of ourselves and
explore “Black Family” and our campus history. We need to dig our feet into the ground we walk on. Ebenezer Baptist Church is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached, and it still holds service today. It is a 12-minute walk to the Auburn Avenue Research Library, which contains specialized references and collections dedicated to African American culture and history. Just 200 feet from the library is the APEX Museum, built-in 1941, which is still operating today and offering tours. “The mission of the APEX Museum is to interpret and present history from an African American perspective to help all Americans and international visitors better understand and appreciate the contributions of African Americans to America and the world,” the APEX Museum website states. Right next door is Refuge Coffee. The coffee shop is excellent for studying and good coffee, and it also hosts art exhibits. The cafe will hold an exhibition of “Black Soil’” by Erin Richardson throughout the month. As described on the website, “‘Black Soil’ seeks to highlight the pride and resiliency of Auburn Avenues Black community in the 1950s and 1960s.” Lastly, Georgia State’s Multicultural Center has excellent resources, not just this month but year-round. Through different virtual and in-person programs such as art, speakers, discussions, film screenings and educational events, the center is a great way to have an open dialogue with students and educators this month. A month of celebration should shed light on the fight against racism in this country, not dilute it. It is important to have tough conversations and educate yourself, and Black History month is an excellent first step.
OPINIONS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
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Speaking up is instrumental in societal change Six steps to voicing your opinions to others GABBY MILLER Staff Columnist
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peaking up can be challenging, especially if you are with unwelcoming people, are not comfortable sharing your opinions, or if other people talk down about your views. Allowing your voice to be heard can change the world. Groups like the #MeToo movement or Black Lives Matter spoke out against injustices in our communities. But you do not have to be an activist to speak out; you can do so without even using your own words by signing petitions. According to The Risk in Speaking Up, speaking can be a risk and reward activity. Peaking up can affect your career, emotional wellbeing, social life, finances and physical wellbeing. Sometimes, standing up for your beliefs can result in the loss of jobs and friends, threats to your public image, physical assault or getting privateinformation leaks. Speaking out is not a bad thing. You just need to know your surroundings before you say something that may be controversial. Like the saying ‘reading the room,’ you have to be 100% sure that you speak out and that you and others are in a safe environment. According to Teaching Tolerance, there are six steps to speaking up.
Step one: Be ready. You should always be comfortable before speaking out about something. Being prepared is finding the courage to speak out about the topic. You should never feel like you are forced to speak out about something when you do not feel comfortable about it.
Step two: Identify the behavior of other people. When speaking out about someone’s
actions, just describe their behavior. It is easy to tag someone you are criticizing, but try to properly speak out without making the same mistake the person may be doing. You should just describe their behavior without labeling them.
Step three: Appeal to principles.
If you are close to the person relationshipwise, you should appeal to their better instincts. You should think about the person you are criticizing. The last thing you want is to lose a close relationship with someone you care about over a disagreement. Step four: Set boundaries. In every relationship, you have to set boundaries one way or another. You have to draw the line at the behavior you disagree with.
Step five: Be an ally.
You should never silence yourself out of fear of judgment. Suppose you are comfortable enough to speak out about a particular issue. In that case, whether it’s a movement you strongly agree with or even individual words someone says in an office, you should always speak out and refuse to be silenced.
Step six: Be vigilant.
You must stay prepared and never stop speaking up. Speaking up is a great tool when you want to address a specific societal issue. It does not have to be around just people you know. If someone is doing something you disagree with, speak up about it. Speaking up can be intimidating, but people who stand up for their beliefs can make the world a much better place. All it takes is a brave individual to speak up about injustice. That can bring change to a community.
ILLUSTRATION BY ROE GASSETT | THE SIGNAL
Georgia State’s professor reporting process doesn’t work
Students share their unresolved disputes with professors ABIR ODEH Staff Columnist
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n honor of full disclosure, I would like to sit down, sip some tea with you and discuss the professor situation at Georgia State. Among us students, it is no secret that there have been issues involving professors and even more issues in reporting them. The university should listen to students and hold professors accountable; however, that is not the case. The University has an established system to deal with professor and student issues, including forcing the two parties to talk it out first. If the situation calls for it, Georgia State offers university ombuds, impartial mediators to assist in conflict management. Ombuds are independent of the university, so they do not represent Georgia State, but they report to the university provost’s office. As each situation is unique to the student and is handled differently depending on the professor, an ombudsperson may not be needed. I spoke to two students, Angel Clark and Israa Arman, each with a different situation. One used the service of an ombud, and the other dealt directly with the professor. Both tell me that their issues remain unresolved. Clark, a junior health informatics major, followed the process when one of her professors would not reply to her emails. She reached out to the ombudsperson’s office, and with
their assistance, she communicated with her professor. She contacted the ombudsperson twice before the semester midpoint. The professor was not responding to emails, and then another issue arose, which brought in the department head. Following these initial issues, Clark scheduled a meeting before the midpoint to speak with the professor about her grade and class problems. The professor advised her on which sections of the course to work on. However, she continued to have the same issues with the professor. “Personally, I felt attacked and discriminated against. Instead of my professor providing me with help during our meeting, she continuously insinuated that I was angry for no reason and gave me little encouragement. Instead, she told me it would be better for me to drop out of the class entirely,” Clark said. It was then that the lab TA accused her of swearing in class, to which Clark pleaded innocence and provided evidence that the professor refused to view. She is continuing the appeal and report process regarding her grade in the course. Arman, a junior applied linguistics major, had a dispute with her professor’s grading and feedback. She said, “the professor belittled my questions and wouldn’t explain her comments so that I can understand what areas I needed to revise.”
Arman says that the professor did give her a chance to revise one of her assignments but had the same issue with all future work. When she found no resolution, she sent a complaint to the professor’s superior, who redirected her to the professor, in an automated email, telling her she must discuss all professor issues with the professor. So she met with the professor and discussed it with her to fix her grades, but it resolved nothing and amounted to the professor taking offense and threatening to report the student to the department head. “Georgia State should listen to the wants and needs of their students, that includes reading evaluations and giving them the power to report a professor with their reasoning,” Arman said. They would like for Georgia State to check the year-end teacher evaluations. Also, Georgia State should both diversify their staff and add professors to departments with few professor options. Many students feel pressured to take classes with professors with low ratings because they have little to no choice otherwise. In both situations, Georgia State handled their resolution poorly. In Clark’s case, the ombudsperson did little to settle the dispute. “As far as policy and punishment, they can’t do anything because they are a neutral party,” she said. While there are options for students, they often leave the issue unresolved.
This Week’s Spread: Arts and Livi WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/ARTSANDLIVING
Breaking free from the gender binary Nonbinary students share their college experiences COLE PODANY Staff Reporter
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ith a setting characterized by sororities and fraternities, hookups and competitive sports, gender defines every part of the college experience. America’s gendered culture makes navigating college uniquely challenging for those who identify as nonbinary. Nonbinary means someone’s gender identity does not fit neatly into traditional definitions of “male” or “female.” For many nonbinary people, college is also a novel opportunity to be free and open about their true selves. “It’s freeing in the sense that I am what I am in the moment, whether that’s as a man, a woman, neither or both,” Sebastien Strehn, a sophomore at South Puget Sound Community College, said. “It’s sort [of] allowing myself to make my own box, so to speak, and slapping an ‘all of the above’ label on it.” Jack McKie, a junior at the University of Rochester in New York, thought about their gender more than ever during college. In their eyes, gender is a social experience. “[My gender] is very fluid and has a lot to do with how I want other people to perceive me. I feel like, outside of interactions with others, I wouldn’t feel a need to label my gender
at all,” McKie said. “I’m just me, and I don’t like how people tend to use a lot of gendered terms to try to box me in ”Danny Smith, a junior at Eastern Kentucky University, has a gender that fluctuates. They face discrimination for their gender identity and hesitate to discuss their identity with peers. “It [has] been a lifelong struggle, but I’m not super open about it still,” Smith said. Although some nonbinary people use “he/him” and “she/her” pronouns or both, others use “they/them” pronouns or other genderneutral pronouns. Like McKie and Smith, Hadley Causey, a senior at Georgia State, uses “they/them” pronouns. “[My gender identity] lets me find a way for me to identify with a community, as well as a way to express myself,” Causey said. Because most university systems, like housing and sports, are designed with the gender binary in mind, nonbinary students face obstacles daily. But universities sometimes make accommodations. Georgia State began offering gender-inclusive housing in 2015 and has a Gender and Sexuality Resource Center.
Still, Athens Oliver Rose (he/they), a sophomore at Georgia State, cited an issue for many nonbinary students: a lack of genderneutral bathrooms on campus. Georgia State has just nine dedicated genderneutral bathrooms across 50 buildings. Unlike Georgia State, gender-neutral housing isn’t available at Eastern Kentucky University, where Smith attends. “I was stuck … in a gendered female dorm for a while until I paid extra for a non-gendered suite,” Smith said. “I’ve dealt with mental health issues for a long time, and [I’ve] been really nervous about my housing situation.” Although the University of Rochester has genderinclusive housing, McKie, too, experienced housing obstacles. This semester, while their professors received their preferred name, the
residence hall received their legal name. “Sometimes, communication fails, and well-meaning people still mess up,” McKie said. “Everyone knew my dead name.” Transgender and nonbinary people often change their names to fit their gender identity. Many of them refer to their given name as their “dead name.” Georgia State issues email addresses with students’ dead names, and they are unable to change them. At the University of Rochester, McKie’s universityassigned email address also includes their dead name. Causey uses Georgia State’s preferred name option, which changes their name in class rosters and iCollege, but not email or PAWS. “The preferred name option is really nice and has helped me out a lot because I haven’t legally changed my name,” Causey said.
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Strehn’s college professors have a similar but less technical approach. They allow students to choose how they are addressed privately and discreetly before class. Accommodations may make nonbinary students’ lives more comfortable, but they do not protect them from hate and discrimination. Misconceptions about nonbinary identities are abundant. With a lack of education on the subject, professors and faculty may make offensive comments, and nonbinary students feel alienated. “I’ve had a professor who repeatedly misgendered me, and when it was brought to the attention of the department by other students, [the professor] called me out about it in class,” McKie said. Strehn took a French class where their professor insisted that they pick a “girl name” and corrected their work when they used the masculine form of words to refer to themselves. Students and faculty at Georgia State misgendered both Rose and Causey. Causey believes that the mistakes they see are usually unintentional and that students and faculty are generally accepting. But they often have to correct
others repeatedly. “[They/them pronouns] are just not commonplace, Causey said. “Students and professors don’t really get it right the first time, so usually I have to correct them or say something about it.” Smith believes that hate and discrimination would be less frequent on college campuses if there were more resources for nonbinary people and allies. They have found that most people at Eastern Kentucky University don’t know what “nonbinary” means. “I wish that people would take the time to clear up their misconceptions,” Smith said. Causey has seen a similar lack of understanding at Georgia State. “Pretty much nobody at [Georgia State] knows what it even means, especially at first,” Causey said. One common misconception students see is that all nonbinary people are the same. “If you know one nonbinary person, you know one nonbinary person,” McKie said. “I’m okay with some gendered language being used for me, and not all nonbinary people are, but that doesn’t make me or them any less nonbinary.”
Causey echoed McKie’s claim that nonbinary people don’t present in any one way. “Some people are comfortable presenting masculine or presenting feminine, and some people like to be androgynous,” Causey said. “Nonbinary” is an umbrella term encompassing other, more specific gender identities, but some people identify only as nonbinary. There are countless understandings of what “nonbinary” means since each person experiences gender differently. Every nonbinary person is a unique individual. Despite discrimination, many nonbinary people find lasting comfort in their college communities. Sometimes, reassurance comes in the form of a tight-knit community and support system, like university organizations, while other times, it comes in fleeting moments of kindness and understanding. “Fellow students at [Georgia State] have noticed the nonbinary flag sticker
on my laptop or the ‘they/ them’ pin that I keep on my backpack, and they go out of their way to affirm my identity and use the correct pronouns without me having to tell them,” Causey said. “It’s always a really nice experience, but a very rare one.” For Strehn, it was welcoming professors who offered a sense of belonging at their university. “I had an art teacher once who would exclusively refer to me as ‘they’ and ‘young creative’ instead of as ‘young lady’ or ‘young man,’” they said. Some nonbinary students like Strehn find that people don’t understand that being nonbinary does not defy gender or society. Instead, it’s an abstract acceptance of oneself, and it is different for every person. “Nonbinary is not just a rejection of femininity or masculinity, but simply a creation for yourself that doesn’t restrict yourself,” Strehn said. “If you can’t find anything to wear on the rack, make it yourself.”
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PHOTO SUBMITTED BY HADLEY CAUSEY & ILLUSTRATIONS & PAGE DESIGN BY EVAN KOENIGS | THE SIGNAL
ARTS & LIVING
WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/ARTSANDLIVING
February 2, 2021
Embracing all body shapes and sizes Students share how they practice body positivity CATHERINE USHER Staff Reporter
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Masks are more than just a facial covering; they serve as a medium for self-expression.
PHOTO BY DEENA KAYYALI | THE SIGNAL
Masks are the newest accessory of the 2020s
Students express themselves while protecting others DEENA KAYYALI Staff Reporter
I
t seems that, for the time being, masks are here to stay. Since May, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advised everyone in the U.S. to wear masks when in public to slow the spread of COVID-19. As the world approaches a full year of mask-wearing and regulations, masks have grown from simple, surgical masks to dynamic statement pieces. Masks are making their mark on high-end fashion companies. Designer brands like Fendi, Balenciaga and Dolce & Gabbana designed facial coverings that sell for hundreds of dollars. A silk-satin face mask from Fendi retails for $465. Not only are they sold in stores, but facial coverings are making appearances on countless runways throughout fashion month. Junior Michelle Lim is an avid mask enthusiast and collector. A nursing student and a real fan of the latest fashion trends, she currently owns over 50 masks, each with a unique design and look. “Masks went from something people felt an obligation to wear to a desired fashion piece to enhance their outfit,” she said. “I have seen masks everywhere. Whether it be in magazines, runways or the streets, they have truly made their way into becoming essential pieces.” Caroline Pagoaga is a senior at the
“
Masks went from something people felt an obligation to wear to a desired fashion piece to enhance their outfit.
”
— MICHELLE LIM
Junior, Nursing Student
University of Georgia, working towards a degree in Fashion Merchandising. She said that people no longer see masks as simple pieces of fabric. “Masks have gone from not only being a pure necessity but have become
a fashion accessory and a way for people to express themselves,” she said. “For many years, we have used our bodies as a canvas, and masks have quickly become a staple in our wardrobes, adding a twist of individuality as we fight together to end the pandemic.” Sophomore Edward Oberlton mentioned that people use masks as fashion to display deeper meanings, representing different cultures and traditions. “There are masks that display African dashiki colors, cultural patterns and flags,” he said. “Not only do people use them to enhance their outfits by matching them to their shoes and clothes, but they have also become a part of a deeper meaning of representation.” People around the country have made the best out of their new reality of masks. Instead of being a disliked enforcement, they are now a route to display creativity. “I use my mask as a form of expression,” Lim said. “Just how my clothes and fashion sense have been a passion of mine for years, I’m glad that I can take that energy and focus it towards a completely new and different outlet. I’m not only helping everyone around me, but I am also expanding the world that I love.”
eauty campaigns like the “Love Your Body” campaign and the fashion industry hiring more models with different body types inspired people from different backgrounds to love and accept their bodies. Georgia State alumnus Corey Vaughter admits that he learned to love his body despite suffering from low self-esteem. Vaughter struggled in the past with not feeling “good enough,” and it damaged his confidence. “I try to stay empowered about myself, although sometimes I find it difficult,” he said. “I had to learn how to train myself to think differently because you are what you believe you are.” Vaughter took the time to make improvements to his physical and mental wellbeing. He believes that the key to body positivity is believing in himself and knowing who exactly he is. “I work out and make it a part of my routine to speak positively about myself after my workout,” he said. “I tell myself that I’m proud of myself for looking good, and there is nothing I can’t do.” Junior Joslyn Cox learned to acknowledge the things she loves about herself rather than focus on her flaws, but she admits that she has struggled to accept her weight. “In the past, I was underweight, but I have gained weight [and] my stomach has gotten larger,” she said. “Although the people in my life assure me that it looks good, I do not like it.” Cox said that social media helped improve her thoughts about her body. “Social media shows a lot of celebrities undergoing many surgeries to alter their
bodies, but … seeing a plus-size woman like Lizzo being so comfortable in her own body definitely motivates me,” she said. Despite her negative feelings about her weight, Cox says she counteracts her insecurities with things she loves about herself. “I was, at one time, really insecure about my height, but now I have learned to love it,” she said. “I’ve learned that we are all made different for a reason, and being comfortable yourself is really a boost to your selfesteem.” Junior Darius Bethea transformed his oncelow self-esteem into confidence-building motivation. Bethea explains that he suffered from low self-esteem in the past due to his weight, but he used his insecurities to push himself in the right direction. “I immediately started exercising and taking walks around Stone Mountain Park,” he said. “I also started cutting back on certain fatty food.” Bethea often felt encouraged during his journey when he saw personal trainers that promote weight loss through healthy eating and constant exercise on social media. He learned to love his body and wants others to feel the same. “I feel that my body is built amazing[ly],” he said. “Anyone struggling with self-esteem should practice autosuggestion where you are constantly feeding positive thoughts about your body to you[rself] until it registers.” Each of these students proves that acceptance of one’s body leads to an overall healthier mentality.
ARTS&LIVING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
11
Simply Signal Recipes: Brookies
Brownies and cookies, a tasty treat to start the new year ISA CARDONA Associate Arts & Living Editor
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rep: 20 mins Cook: 20-25 mins
Servings: 20
Brownie Layer: • 1 cup white sugar • 1/2 cup butter, melted • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 eggs • 1/3 cup cocoa powder • 1/2 cup allpurpose flour • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder • 1/8 teaspoon salt Cookie Layer: • 1/2 cup butter softened • 1/2 cup light brown sugar • 1/4 cup white sugar • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 egg • 1 1/4 cups allpurpose flour • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips With the new year in full swing, many people plan to pick up new hobbies or goals. These goals are often related to fitness or habit changes, but one of the most important things to do while trying to get healthier is finding balance in your lifestyle. Rather than cutting out all the things you love, like desserts, it’s essential to find ways to enjoy treats in moderation. It’s so satisfying to cook and bake your own treats. It’s a way to feed the mind through picking up a new hobby, to feed the body by knowing what exactly you’re putting in it and enjoying the creations you make. This series provides students with a variety of delicious and accessible foods to make in the comfort of their living spaces.
We’re starting with these simple and tasty brookies. Directions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, light brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract together until creamy. Add 1 egg; beat until light and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Step 3
In another bowl, whisk 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt and baking soda together. Gradually stir flour mixture into butter mixture until dough is combined. Stir chocolate chips into the dough. Spread dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to cover completely.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, stir 1 cup white sugar, melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract together. Add 2 eggs and beat well. Mix cocoa powder into butter mixture until wellcombined. Stir 1/2 cup flour, baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt into cocoa mixture until batter is combined. Pour brownie batter over cookie dough and spread to cover completely.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the brookies’ center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars. (Recipe from Allrecipes.com)
Georgia State students reflect on the games that got them through a tense year.
PHOTO BY HARRY WYMAN | THE SIGNAL
Students reflect on the games that got them through a tense year
Cyberpunk 2077, Among Us and Ghosts of Tsushima were favorites DESMOND LEAKE Staff Reporter
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he year 2020 was tumultuous, seeing a “new normal” due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Encouraged to stay at home, many people turned to video games as a form of safe entertainment. As a result, video game sales went up 23% compared to the same period in 2019. Last year saw the release of highly anticipated games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Ghost of Tsushima, but there were other less-anticipated games that became surprise hits. One of the most popular games of 2020 was Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which was the most talked-about game of the previous year, according to Twitter. The game’s social elements allow players to simulate pre-pandemic life, like going on dates with other players and attending in-game graduations and funerals. For students like senior Aniya Barnett, Among Us improved her 2020. “Among Us got me through, along with the YouTubers I found as a result,” she said. “I still put on compilations of it every night to help me sleep.” Among Us saw a surge in popularity after a string of highprofile streamers started playing the game. The game’s success is also due to its free-to-play mobile port, allowing gamers and non-gamers
alike to play with their friends. Some students played games to live their pre-pandemic plans virtually. Sophomore Minhad Mahmud was looking forward to a summer road trip with his friends before COVID-19 came to the U.S., forcing them to cancel their trip. He found his comfort game in Final Fantasy XV. “My best friends [and I] were going to take a road trip over summer break, but since COVID[-19] happened, that plan got canceled,” he said. “But being able to go on a road trip with four, spikyhaired anime boys made up for it.” Final Fantasy XV is an open-world, Japanese role-playing game where players play as a prince and his group of best friends as they go on a road trip while trying to save the world. Other students, such as freshman Roxanne Beeson, shared Minhad’s appreciation for open-world games. She mentioned that Breath of the Wild and Red Dead Redemption 2 got her through the year, as well as fighting games. “Fighting games gave me a way to improve myself and a way to use that improvement in the real world,” she said. Fighting games saw setbacks in 2020 since COVID-19 caused most of the biggest in-person tournaments to shut down and local scenes to close. Companies made greater efforts to make online play more
viable, but in-person games remain the ideal for most.
“
Among Us got me through, along with the YouTubers I found as a result. I still put on compilations of it every night to help me sleep.
”
— ANIYA BARNETT
Georgia State Senior
The unexpected events of 2020 led students to seek out safer forms of entertainment, and as a result, gaming became a comfort for many in uncertain times.
SPORTS
February 2, 2021
WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/SPORTS
Corey Allen’s successful senior season is no fluke
The all-conference caliber guard has earned every bucket MALIKAI COLLINS Staff Reporter
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Fans bring flowers and balloons to the Hank Aaron statue located outside of Center Parc Stadium early last week.
PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL
An open letter to Hank Aaron, a hero to so many
From a Braves fan to a Braves legend, thank you JULIAN HARDEN Staff Reporter
D
ear Hank Aaron, When I met you years ago, your warmth and kindness overtook me. You signed every fan’s autograph and took time to talk to them as well. It still seems surreal that it has been 11 days without you, Hank, and many have reminisced about your record-breaking home run that April night in 1974. That day, you not only became the home run king but the icon of sports in Georgia. The fact that a Black man broke the all-time home run record will be in the hearts and memories of current fans and future generations to come. But your impact meant more than just on the diamond. Even before I knew anything about sports, your legacy had a significant impact on my life. Everyone knows the horror you encountered in the “city too busy to hate,” but you made the city live up to its motto. Atlanta became a city that embraces all of its people and allows them to have a voice. “The way I saw it, the only thing Atlanta was too busy for was baseball. It didn’t seem to give a damn about the Braves,” Aaron said in his autobiography. “It seemed like
the only thing that mattered about the home run record was that a n---- was about to step out of line and break it.” During your chase to break Babe Ruth’s record, you remained candid about the hate you faced, not just from fans in the state but the entire country. I couldn’t imagine receiving not only death threats but kidnapping threats from thousands of individuals and the Ku Klux Klan. Many will remember you for hitting your 715th home run, but I remember you for being a man of the people, supporting local Boys and Girls Clubs, introducing the game to youth and giving me the passion for covering the game today. When the number of Black players declined in the sport, you took action and helped create the Hank Aaron Invitational to give diverse youth the chance to play the game you loved. Your work will have an immeasurable impact on the game for years to come. The drive to support social justice didn’t end after your playing days ended; you advocated for socioeconomic reforms your whole life. After George Floyd’s death and during the civil unrest in the
summer of 2020, you were an inspirational voice for change. Your generosity has reached worldwide because you helped make the game international while never losing your roots. From the days of watching the KKK march down your street in Alabama to becoming a civil rights leader, you’ve changed America forever. When your record was “broken” in 2007, you handled it with grace even when fans (like myself) did the opposite. Indeed, the country has changed for the better thanks to your touch. But Hank, we still have a long way to go, as you knew. “I have had the privilege to hold this [home run record] for 33 of those years,” Aaron said in a 2007 video. “I move over now and offer my best wishes to Barry [Bonds] and his family on this historical achievement.” You never forgot how the treatment you received as a player, and we as a country shouldn’t either. As players have become more outspoken about social issues, we will look back at how you were bold in the face of hate and opposition. Rest easy, Hank. You will always be king in our hearts.
orey Allen has come out on a mission through his senior campaign’s first 12 games. In his second year with the Panthers, he averages a team-high 15.3 points per game on 51% shooting from the field and 49% from three. Allen is all over the Georgia State record books for his start to the season, from tops in three-point percentage to true shooting. Allen is currently number one in both three-point field goal and effective field goal percentages at 66%. But this comes as no surprise to anyone aware of Allen’s work ethic. Basketball seemed destined for Allen, almost like a family business since just about every member of his immediate family played basketball. “About the age of six or so, my dad introduced me to the game,” Allen said. “He put the ball in my hand; I had older brothers who played basketball too. I even had girls who played basketball, so it was kind of like a family thing.” Allen didn’t realize his ability to shoot the threeball until his senior high school season. His efficient shooting is now a testament to Allen’s drive and selfconfidence. “During my senior year, my coach started telling me I needed to be different, different from everybody else, so I just started working on shooting threes, and that led up to now,” Allen said. Allen can score in various ways. He can beat a defender off the dribble for a quick pull-up jumper, use great off-ball movements to find his spot for the open shot or create space by sizing up his defender and taking what the defense gives him. Allen has scored in double figures in 10 of the 12 games the Panthers have played this season.
An undersized twoguard at 6-foot 2-inches, Allen uses a lightningquick release mixed with a high-arching jumper to get his shot off over taller defenders. Allen watches and studies players like C.J. McCollum, who are undersized guards but found ways to flourish in the NBA. “I watch a lot of [McCollum], I like how he plays,” said Allen. “He has a good [one-on-one] game, he can shoot the ball, and the fact that he came from a mid-major school, it gives me motivation because he’s doing his thing right now.” McCollum, the tenth overall selection in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, graduated from Lehigh University and is widely regarded as one of the best shot-creators in the league. Although Allen is known for his scoring ability, he will play above his height and crash the boards. His quickness and hustle earn him a team-high 4.2 boards a game, pacing him for a career-best. Allen’s senior campaign continuously displays his growth as a player and a leader. He had to come in, sit out the 2018-19 season and adjust to a new program after playing two years at the University of Detroit. “Being patient, I redshirted my first year here, so I had to sit down and watch, work on my game and stuff,” Allen said. “I learned from those guys, the year I sat out, how to become more of a team player.” Allen is making a name for himself and being recognized nationally with his profound shooting skills. His ability to contribute to lead the Panthers to a conference championship will continue through his competitive nature, confidence and the mindset of never being satisfied.
SPORTS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
13
Are video game skills translating to real life?
Some of Quad Brown’s success may come from Madden MEADOW BARROW Staff Reporter
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ho would have ever thought that you could be a football expert for just $60 and access to a game console? Cornelious “Quad” Brown, quarterback for the Georgia State Panthers, can attest to this. Brown’s first season as Georgia State’s starting quarterback was unforgettable, leading the Panthers to their first bowl victory since 2017 with a 39-21 win against Western Kentucky in the LendingTree Bowl. Brown’s efforts and exceptional talent brought him the opportunity to receive his first MVP award in a bowl game. “I was able to gain a lot of experience and play with a lot of talent, which is something that is a blessing, so it was a fun experience,” Brown said. “It was [also] a learning experience for sure.” Since he stepped foot on the field, Brown continues to work his way up the conference statistics ranks. But where did this talent come from? It all started when Brown was a kid with sports video games such as Madden NFL and NBA 2K in his early days and continues to play them. But could indulging in sports video games play a role in Brown’s success? He believes it certainly has. “It does. I feel like [Madden] directly correlates to my game, especially with me playing quarterback,” Brown said. “There are so many realistic route concepts and different offensive sets that are on Madden that correlate to our offense at Georgia State.” A James H. Warsaw Sports Marketing Center at the University of Oregon survey of over 15,000 NFL players and fans found that people who played Madden had a 60% higher football IQ than people who don’t play Madden. “I do believe that [Madden] does correlate with my IQ. It has gone up,” Brown said. “The defensive coverages are pretty accurate on Madden, so being able to digest and breakdown defensive coverages, and also memorize
and learn and get familiar with different route concepts and offensive schemes, has been able to help me in my football game.” Learning defensive coverages and offensive schemes is a must for quarterbacks, and they usually acquire these skills through studying film. “I’ve referenced Madden as interactive film,” Brown said. “It’s like film study, except you interact as you go.” Madden’s accuracy makes learning from and mimicking star players in the league, such as Patrick Mahomes and Russell Wilson, so much easier. He not only watches them but plays them and studies their ways on the digital football field. “On Madden, the skillset that is placed on those [quarterback] players is pretty accurate, and they do what they do well in real life on Madden,” Brown said, “So I definitely use different [quarterback] players because they have different attributes and different strengths and weaknesses.” Not only has Madden helped with Brown’s football IQ, but it has also played a role in team chemistry. “I do play with a couple of my teammates,” Brown said. “We get pretty competitive. We’re football players, so we all kind of have pride in our madden skills. It’s something that we do as a hobby, and it’s something that we do to bond as well.” Overall, Madden’s accuracy has led people to believe that it can play a vital role in someone’s football knowledge and tremendously benefit players. Brown has taken advantage of this knowledge, along with his skills, to help guide and motivate him to lead the Panthers to another successful season in 2021. “I think that a Sun Belt Championship [win in December] is definitely attainable for the Georgia State Panthers in Atlanta, and that’s what we’re striving for each and every day,” Brown said. “That’s our goal [and] that’s what we will fight for.”
Georgia State will honor the late and MLB all-time-great Hank Aaron with a baseball stadium in his name.
PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL
Georgia State to honor Hank Aaron with new stadium
The Braves legend will receive a proper tribute following his death ANDREW FREEDMAN Sports Editor
A
s the sports world continues to mourn the recent death of Hank Aaron, Georgia State announced they would pay their dues to the Atlanta Braves legend. On Friday, the school announced plans to honor Aaron by building a new complex at the former AtlantaFulton County Stadium location. The home of the Braves until its 1997 demolition, only one thing remains from the ballpark: the wall where Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s home run record. For the university and its athletics department, the new complex will represent Aaron personally, not just as an athlete. The school estimates it will cost approximately $10 million in private funds to build the 2,500seat baseball field and the Aaron tribute. “Mr. Aaron was so much more than a baseball player,” associate athletic director Mike Holmes said. “He came up through the game of baseball when there was still a great deal of racism throughout the South and our country.” Georgia State had plans to honor the “Home Run King” for a while, but when they reached out to schedule a February meeting, they found out about his passing. “No sports figure has stood
taller in Atlanta than Hank Aaron, the greatest home run hitter in the history of Major League Baseball,” former Georgia State University President Mark Becker said in a statement. “He is a sports legend, was a pillar of the Atlanta community and needs to be remembered as a first-class human being who displayed dignity in everything he did.” Georgia State Athletics Director Charlie Cobb noted that the stadium would include Aaron’s statue hitting his iconic 715th home run and the wall he hit it over as well. Both came with Turner Field, which the university purchased in 2017. “It’s just an amazing sports moment to be able to be able to capture that and capture the essence of Hank Aaron as a man is something that’s really important to our University,” Athletics Director Charlie Cobb told FOX 5 Atlanta. Sports fans will always appreciate the facility, expected to come 12 to 18 months after the university gathers the funding. The stadium serves as an opportunity to understand the beauty of sports for both fans of the game and outsiders. “[Aaron] worked hard at his craft but also used his skill to eventually … bring people together over the
love of baseball,” Holmes said. “He deserves all the recognition for what he accomplished, breaking the great record in sport and for what he did for the country.” With such a great honor also comes significant expectations. From donors to Panthers baseball fans and even baseball historians, the university understands the task ahead and welcomes the journey to create a unique structure. “I think there is a little added pressure, but at the same time, we want to build facilities at Georgia State that our student-athletes, coaches, staff, fans and alumni can be proud of,” Holmes said. Sure, it may not be AtlantaFulton County Stadium or Turner Field, but it will represent how highly the world views Aaron. Aaron will always embody a man of the people, someone who battled adversity for over two decades and one who gave everything he had to the game and mentored those who came after him. “When that is the basis for what you want to try and accomplish, the only way to do it is first-class,” Holmes said. “In honoring Mr. Aaron, we want to do it in a firstclass manner, so it falls in line with exactly what we believe in. Hopefully, we can accomplish that goal.”
February 2, 2021
THREE BIG THINGS
GAMES SUDOKU
UNIVERSITY
STATE
NATIONAL
Georgia State announces StateSouthern times
Kirby Smart adds another five-star quarterback to his resume
The NFL Trade frenzies have begun
The most anticipated name of every Georgia State team’s schedule? The Georgia Southern Eagles. The two teams will face off twice in the next two weeks. The Panthers host the Eagles on Feb. 11 at the GSU Sports Arena and then travel to Statebsboro on Feb. 13 to play the second of two games with their rival. Last season, the Panthers lost two of their final three games, both coming against the Eagles, including an 81-62 blowout in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament quarterfinals.
The Georgia Bulldogs continue to exemplify excellence in their recruiting after adding Gunnar Stockton, the No. 27 prospect in the 2022 class. A dual-threat quarterback prospect, Stockton adds to the list of five-stars at the position -- five to be exact -- since Smart arrived in Athens in 2016. Stockton denominated from the South Carolina Gamecocks before making his final decision last week and will enter a competitive quarterback field at UGA.
After a long time of speculation, the Detroit Lions traded Matthew Stafford. The Lions sent the former first overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft to the Los Angeles Rams for former 2016 first overall pick Jared Goff, two future first-round picks and a future third-round pick. Stafford, who played his college football at the University of Georgia, found little success playing in Detroit, losing all three playoff games in his career. He will look to bring back the Rams to Super Bowl contention with an offense that includes weapons such as Cooper Kupp and Tyler Higbee.
THE KICKBACK
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2021
GAMES
15
COMIC
Your Comic Should be Here!
UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY
Women’s Basketball vs. Coastal Carolina 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sports Arena
Involvement Fair 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Virtual
Wellness Walk: with the Counseling Center 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Virtual
Black Male Leadership Academy 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Virtual
Black History Month Trivia Night 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Virtual
Diversity Abroad Series: A Black Male Perspective 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Virtual
Flag on the Play 12:30 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Virtual
FEB 05
THURSDAY FEB 04
WEDNESDAY FEB 03
TUESDAY
Men’s Basketball vs. Appalachian State 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Sports Arena
SUNDAY
MONDAY
African American Burial Grounds Tour 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Oakland Cemetery
Atlanta and the Civil Rights Movement Ends 6/30/21 Woodruff Park
Peaceful Place Meditation 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Virtual
Men’s Basketball vs. Appalachian State 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sports Arena
Celebrate Black History Month at the College Football Hall of Fame: Blood, Sweat, and Tears 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. College Football Hall of Fame
FEB 08
SATURDAY FEB 07
FEB 06
FEB 02
THE KICKBACK
Connecting to Campus Through P.I.N. 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Virtual