The Signal Vol. 88 No. 8

VOL. 88 | NO. 08

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BLOTTER OCT. 2

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At 10:43 a.m., a Georgia State student was a victim of larceny and criminal damage to property. The case is still active.

OCT. 3

Cruisin’ and Boozin’

A non-Georgia State offender was arrested for driving under the influence at 1:55 a.m.

NEWS BRIEFS

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Robbed and roughed up

OCT. 5

“Forget virtual learning! I want inperson classes.”

At 7:55 p.m., a nonGeorgia State offender was arrested for criminally trespassing Classroom South.

OCT. 7

Like George Owell’s “1984”

At 6:00 p.m., a Georgia State student was a victim of criminal damage to property at Library South.

OCT. 6

Trying to find a T-Bird in the park

A non-Georgia State offender criminally trespassed the T parking deck at 6:04 p.m. The case was exceptionally cleared.

LOCAL

NATIONAL

GLOBAL

Woman accused of smuggling drugs to inmates

Derek Chauvin is released from prison

North Korea debuts a ballistic missile

A Dawsonville woman faces several felonies for smuggling meth and illegal substances to North Georgia inmates. The investigation began last month when deputies found contraband in the Lumpkin County Detention Center; it led to the arrest of 26-year-old Kimberly Biggs. While investigating the woman’s home, investigators obtained paraphernalia and a cellphone. Biggs is linked to 38-year-old Calvin Turner who is her meth supplier. Briggs is facing six charges.

Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer charged with the murder of George Floyd, was released from prison on Wednesday after posting a non-cash $1 million bond. Since May 21, Chauvin had been at Oak Park Heights prison. The $1 million bond included conditions like not being able to leave the state. However, because he is a “high-profile suspect”, Chauvin can leave the state for his safety as he awaits trial.

Protesters rallied Wednesday, following Chauvin’s release.

On Saturday, North Korea held a military parade where they unveiled what is believed to be one of the world’s largest ballistic missiles. The weapon was carried by an 11axle truck and is the “largest *road-mobile* liquid-fueled missile anywhere” according to Ankit Panda, senior fellow in the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

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NEWS

October 13, 2020

WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/NEWS

‘Outside the box and inside the house’

Piedmont Healthcare’s Dr. Shah talks about the risks of COVID among college students J.P. IRIE Staff Reporter

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ith coronavirus myths aroused, Dr. Neha Shah suggests students think “outside the box and inside the house.”

Dr. Shah, a physician at Piedmont Healthcare, wants to debunk the idea that only older people are affected by COVID-19, and address its risks and severity for young adults and college students.

Shah is no stranger to viruses. She studied at the St. George’s University School of Medicine and then became a resident of internal medicine and fellow of infectious diseases at the State University of New York Health Science Center.

“I did a lot of my training in [a] New York City Hospital,” Shah said. “It’s the best place to train. You’re in the trenches [ and you see] all sorts of crazy things.”

Corona in College

Many believe that older people are the most susceptible to COVID-19 since age is a risk factor. The Atlantic published an article discussing the widespread belief, and the WHO addressed it on their Mythbusters’ article.

The CDC’s website states that 8 out of 10 COVID-19-related deaths are of those 65 and older. However, the risks and implications of COVID-19 are not limited to older people and can affect healthy young adults.

“Although younger people [may] not have any underlying medical condition,” Shah said, “they may be at much risk for severe complications. They can still become severely ill and even die.”

According to The New York Times, as of Sept. 25, there have been over 130,000 cases of COVID-19 across 1,300 universities and colleges.

The CDC stated that around 23% of American COVID-19 cases occur with adults between 18 and 29, which constitutes the largest age group to contract the virus, even higher than the 20% of adults between 50 and 64.

According to Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the CDC’s weekly digest, “the median age of COVID-19 cases declined from 46 years in May to 37 years in July and 38 in

August.”

“We’re learning all the time what this virus does,” Shah said.

“One thing that we don’t know yet [is that] even if someone does get sick and may recover, there still could be long-term consequences from having the virus.”

Shah mentioned the story of Chad Dorrill, a 19-year-old basketball player who, despite his incredible fitness, died from COVID-19 complications.

According to the CDC, as of Sept. 30, 362 people from 15 to 24 years old have died from the virus. There were 1,513 deaths for those between 25 and 34.

“I know some young people will say, ‘Oh, [362 or 1,513] is not that many.’ You don’t want to be that one in a million that has something [happen] and die from it. I just don’t think it’s worth the risk,” Shah said.

Prevention or Cure

Shah shared doubts that the vaccine will be ready this year. She instead predicted that the vaccine might come next year. “[It’s] not something that happens overnight,” she said. “Until then, this is kind of our new norm.”

She recommends that students practice the three W’s: wear your mask, wash your hands and watch your distance.

“The biggest thing with wearing a mask is [that] it’s not enough alone,” Shah said.

If changes are made, Shah believes that universities could return to face-to-face learning.

“If precautions can be taken, [like] ensuring everyone is wearing a mask and … [ensuring everyone is] six feet apart,” she said, “if everyone is doing their part and their due diligence … there may be a way to make all of this work.”

Can We Make It Work?

Face-to-face classes versus online learning is still a divisive issue, both among students and the administration.

On the students’ side, a petition to make Georgia State classes online-only reached over 100 signatures. At the same time, many

Despite beliefs, young adults are the most likely age-group to get COVID-19.

canceled their housing agreements with the school when more classes were converted from in-person to online in August.

“We have under 3,000 residents residing on campus as of today,” Shannon Corey, Interim and Associate Director of Resident Life, said on Sept. 3. “Having … completed move-in, we are still reconciling those who did not show or those who are still canceling, and we are still assigning a few students as well.”

Meanwhile, Georgia State’s administration has done what it can to hold classes mostly online, and the University System of Georgia (USG) has maintained its position in favor of face-toface learning.

The USG’s chancellor “emphasized the importance of physical presence on campus to the student experience,” stating in an agenda of the Board of Regents’ Sept. 15 meeting that onlineonly instruction “would be detrimental both to students and to the USG.” Georgia State Provost Wendy Hensel, who manages academic affairs, said Georgia State is reserved for classes that need it, such as band classes.

“In the average, typical classroom, [social distancing] cuts the capacity to less than 25% of the seats,” she said. “We…use [a lot] of the space on campus…so [it’s not] like we could just… make minor modifications and still be able to hit that six feet of social distancing.”

Better to be Sick of Home than Sick at Home

While the pandemic has limited how the world interacts, Shah believes that people can still be together, even if they’re apart.

She recommends that they think “outside the box but inside the house” or “outside the box but inside the mask.”

“I have heard some cool things about people … doing game nights [virtually],” Piedmont Healthcare Senior Communications Specialist Nicole Dillon said.

Shah said that she has held virtual game nights with a lot of her friends and it has strengthened their bond.

With quarantine measures still in place and the vaccine seeming to be a year away, Shah said this might very well be the “new norm.”

PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR & ILLUSTRATION BY MONIQUE ROJAS | THE SIGNAL

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NEWS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

SGA members attend their virtual meeting to discuss their plans for the fall semester.

SGA questions how to reach out to students

PHOTO BY OLIVIA NASH | THE SIGNAL

Student Government Association holds a U-Wide Senate meeting OLIVIA NASH News Editor

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n Thursday, the Student Government Association’s 91st administration held its third University-Wide Senate meeting of the semester.

The meeting began around 7:15 p.m. with the usual roll call; however, executive vice presidents and senators were asked to answer two questions before proceeding.

Hoping to keep students “F.I.R.S.T,” SGA Universitywide President Kaelen Thomas’s first question to SGA members was “how can we effectively reach out to students?”

The majority of members believe that heightening the student government’s social media presence will increase student involvement.

One senator said that, because Georgia State is such a large campus, social media is “for sure a go to.” He believes that reaching out to the masses is “always going to be important.” Him, along with other members, want to become more active across varying social media platforms, especially because the pandemic has limited in-person communication.

“I think for the first question, I would definitely say that reaching out through social media would be such a great way to engage with students,” Atlanta Senator Samuel Pittman said. “I think student takeovers [and] featuring some of our officers would be great. It’s really personable and really effective with reaching [out to] people.”

SGA members suggested there be a student of the week, to “match a face to a name” and share a member profile once in a while. Other suggested methods for effective communication were weekly newsletters, utilizing current platforms like iCollege, and mass text messages and surveys.

However, the student government association hopes that social media is not the only outlet they use to reach out to students.

“I know I talk to my friends and they’ll tell people … ‘if you have a concern let me know and I’ll let my friend in SGA know,” Atlanta Senator Ashleigh Cochran said.

“What people are saying about social media will help, but I feel those really personal connections [also help].”

Atlanta Senator Hewitt Mesfin echoed the sentiment by agreeing that it should be made apparent that SGA is

for the students.

“I agree with everything everyone has said. I do believe that it’s our duty to reach out to students rather than wait for them to come to us,” she said. “I feel as though we should, like everyone has said, reach out to our friends… and advocate for SGA and let everyone know that they can come to us.”

The second roll call question addressed communication within the group: “what is the best way to communicate with other SGA officers?”

Senator Pittman believes that finding ways to meet in a “more informal way” will improve the communication within SGA. “I think making sure that we’re having hard work, but we also have ‘nice time too’ like leisure [will help],” he said. “Our work is really important, but sometimes if we are not taking the time to actually get to know each other outside of our work, it really infringes on our ability to get things done.”

SGA members agree that applications like GroupMe, Microsoft Teams and Slack are useful, but members want a setting where they can discuss unofficial business.

SGA members also want the communication to get compacted, seeing that SGA uses more than one outlet to communicate with each other.

After the 40-minute roll call, quorum was met and the meeting continued as usual.

The group approved the minutes of the Sept. 10 university-wide senate meeting, and then began the “special report section.”

This meeting’s special report was the student emergency response team, or SERT. Dr. Kim Ramsey-White, a clinical assistant professor in the School of Public Health, advises the team. She prefaced the presentation by introducing SERT and its student ambassadors.

“We have a phenomenal team of [Georgia State] students who have been working very hard to deliver the proper COVID-19 public health facts to the [Georgia State] student body,” White said.

Over the summer, the School of Public Health recruited students who were interested in learning and sharing COVID-19 information to help the Georgia

State community stay safe during the pandemic.

SERT ambassador Jake Coldiron shared how the pandemic is affecting the amount of students on campus, and that “if [a student] ever wanted a small college feel in an urban center, now is the chance.”

Coldiron also shared the methods of COVID-19 testing and how testing at the university is selective.

“The only testing location on the [Georgia State] campus currently is the student health clinic and they’re fairly restrictive on who can get a test,” he said.

“However while there are those heavy restrictions on the [Georgia State] side, there are testing sights around the metro area.”

Coldiron said that COVID-19 testing efforts decrease while positive cases increase on campus. Georgia State students should be concerned about the restrictions on testing and should push for unrestricted testing.

SERT ambassador Daria Dozier then showed a video titled “How Students Can Protect Themselves: COVID-19 Info Module” by Georgia State Campus of Care Committee, from SERT’s 7-step campaign.

After the video, Dozier talked about being a college student during a pandemic.

“During this portion, I just want to offer tips on managing academics during a pandemic [and] discuss how to socialize safely,” she said. “[I want to] gently remind you to prioritize your mental health and offer some resources if you need any extra assistance.”

There were five tips for managing courses during COVID-19: create a realistic routine, mark important dates in a planner, create a workspace, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Dozier said that asking for help goes beyond the classroom and that “everybody needs somebody.”

University-wide President Kaelen Thomas’s closing remarks touched on this idea.

“I, myself, have also been finding it difficult to stay positive and motivated while also juggling the competing demands of school, work and life,” he said.

“Remember, the Counseling Center and Student Health Clinic are resources that are available to you. To be a student leader, you must first be a student, so please remember to take care of yourself.”

5

THE SIGNAL

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

Panthers paint it pink in throughout October Georgia State promotes Breast Cancer Awareness Month NIDA MERCHANT Staff Reporter

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But the conversation extends towards many students as well. Aleah Freeman, president of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, noted that Breast Cancer awareness serves as their philanthropy. With yearly Pink Panther 5k walks, volunteering at Making Strides Walk and raising money through various fundraiser initiatives.

This month, the conversation is primarily online with creative efforts in raising money.

“We are doing bingo blackboards, t-shirt sales, raffle sales and educational graphics to promote our philanthropy,” Freeman said. “Even though it is virtual, we have had a great turnout so far.”

The sorority plans to work alongside Georgia State in promoting their Pink Out football games this month. The Play4TheCure game will be played against Coastal Carolina on Saturday, Oct. 31. The sorority sisters will be passing our ribbons at the games to remind students to get checked.

As a Breast Cancer survivor herself, Lee-Barber recognizes the value in early detection and having access to excellent medical care. Panthers can see a medical or mental health provider at no cost through the Georgia State clinic and counseling centers. The Georgia State Health Clinic offers breast examinations for students amongst other services.

“I cannot emphasize enough to students that your lives and those of your beloveds are worth fighting for, in big and small ways,” Lee-Barber said. “Taking care of your health by engaging in prevention requires believing you are worth it, [and you are.]”

Jill-Lee-Barber, associate vice president for student health and wellness, discusses how Georgia State is promoting Breast Cancer Awareness on campus.

While Breast Cancer is found primarily in women, approximately 2,600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year too. For more information on early detection or self breast exams, visit the National Breast Cancer Association.

Restrictions on international travel prohibit working abroad AAHARON WEINSTEIN Staff Reporter

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“The program currently awards approximately 2,000 grants annually in all fields of study and operates in more than 140 countries worldwide,” the website states.

“

As the primary sponsor of the Fulbright Program, the United States Department of State’s highest priority is the health and safety of all participants.

— WILLIAM WESTERMAN Member of the Fulbright Program

”

To maintain social distancing, Fulbright staff is working remotely and continue to work full-time, proceeding with normal business operations.

“Pre-Departure Orientations (PDOs), a robust set of meetings and workshops on the program for finalist grantees, are being held virtually for foreign and U.S. participants of the Fulbright Program this summer and fall,” Westerman said.

ILLUSTRATION BY MONIQUE ROJAS | THE SIGNAL

The Fulbright Program is at a standstill very year, graduates apply to the Fulbright Student Program hoping to get a chance to conduct research, study and teach abroad; however due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many may not get the chance.

According to its website, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program “provides grants for individually designed study [and] research projects or for English Teaching Assistant Programs.”

The program is the “largest U.S. exchange program” that allows students the opportunity for international research.

But COVID-19 has stifled that.

“As the primary sponsor of the Fulbright Program, the United States Department of State’s highest priority is the health and safety of all participants,” William Westerman of the Fulbright Student Program said.

Georgia State’s Fulbright Program is communicating with different chapters and partners for guidance on how to efficiently operate during the pandemic.

“We are working closely with partner governments, Fulbright Commissions, U.S. Embassies, Fulbright cooperating agencies and U.S. and foreign host institutions to provide guidance and information to our exchange participants,” Westerman said.

Though seeking advice, the program remains forced to halt for a while.

“The U.S. Department of State issued a global Level 4 Travel Advisory on March 19, which advised U.S. citizens to avoid international travel,” Westerman said. “Therefore, several components of the 2020-2021 Fulbright U.S. Student Program [are] delayed until after January 1, 2021,” Westerman said.

Despite the setbacks, Westerman said there is a proposal to allow for new awards for students enrolled in a degree program at a foreign university.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY JILL-LEE BARBER

ctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. In the United States alone, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

On average, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with Breast Cancer every two minutes, making it one of the most common cancers worldwide according to the World Health Association.

Jill-Lee-Barber, associate vice president for student health and wellness, discussed activities Georgia State is participating in this year to promote Breast Cancer Awareness on campus.

Historically, Georgia State has done many in-person events in partnership with the Employee Development and Wellness department on campus. They hosted awareness campaigns, walks and a mammography screening mobile unit. This year, however, the department is focusing on various virtual events throughout the month.

The Student Health Promotion and @BeWellGSU are collaborating with the Multicultural center, Spotlight and GSUPD for Instagram Live and Virtual Pop Talks. The first event will be held on Oct. 14 for more information on Breast Cancer and Advocacy.

Health educator Camila Pham will be sharing information on the Multicultural Association Instagram on Oct. 13 at noon and sharing testimonies from survivors and family of survivors at Georgia State on Oct. 19 at noon.

The Fulbright Program plans to resume operations on a country-by-country basis, only reopening plans with a specific country once the health warnings permit exchange.

“Under these conditions, U.S. Fulbrighters may be able to begin their exchanges after January 1, 2021, with exact start and end dates to be agreed in advance with the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section in the host country,” Westerman said.

Fulbright is taking new approaches, given the restrictions caused by the pandemic.

“The program’s approach also includes new online flexibilities for both U.S. and visiting Fulbright participants, and reflects spring 2020 developments on U.S. and other campuses,” Westerman said. “More specific information on a country-by-country basis can be found from binational Fulbright Commissions or U.S. Embassies.”

While the Fulbright Program faces restrictions as a byproduct of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will continue to accept applications until the Oct. 13 national deadline. However, when asked how many applications they have been receiving during the pandemic, Westerman gave no comment.

OPINIONS

WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/OPINIONS

October 13, 2020

Men, it’s okay to give other men compliments There’s no shame in being positive KELVIN COLLINS Staff Columnist

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ILLUSTRATION BY ROE GASSETT | THE SIGNAL

The double-standard of leaking nude photos Privacy is different for men and women CALLIE MCNORTON Staff Columnist

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he world has already moved on from Chris Evans’ accidental nude leak almost a month ago. Granted, we are in the middle of a pandemic and an election year, but would a woman’s nudes be taken so gently?

On Sept. 14, Evans accidentally posted a screen recording that revealed his camera roll. He was quick to delete the Instagram story, but the damage was already done.

Fortunately, his fans came to his defense and drowned out the image with respectful tweets.

“He made a mistake, report the leaked photos and don’t share them. Keep it wholesome #chrisevansleak,” a fan said on Twitter.

Enough people concluded that Evans deserves privacy, and that is a win. It is impressive that the public extended human decency to someone in such a vulnerable position in our current world.

Would Chris Evans be as protected as he was if he were a woman?

The most notorious attack on a woman’s nude leaks was the 2014 iCloud hack. Jennifer Lawerence was at the height of fame and the highestpaid actress in 2015. Lawrence was scandalized and scrutinized, and Reddit users were quick to have the images circulating.

Among the other victims, Lawrence was told she should have seen it coming and criticized for taking private photos in the first place. Thankfully, the leaks did no harm to her career, and she garnered much support. The public and the media moved on to the next thing.

If it were men, would it have been taken differently?

Examining our ever-changing climate and view of women in the media, slutshaming is still alive and well. Evans’ mostly female fan base came to the rescue; men would shock me if they did the same for a woman. It is hard to imagine a world where a woman is not held to a standard that is unreachable.

These issues have changed for the better over time. However, many long-standing standards have been translated to make sense in our digital world. All women are not the bar of understanding, either.

In 2019, Bella Throne leaked her own nudes to reclaim her power against a threatening hacker.

Whoopi Goldberg publicly shamed Thorne for taking private photos on “The View.”

“If you’re famous, I don’t care how old you are; you don’t take nude pictures of yourself,” Goldberg said.

Women’s empowerment on social media has challenged prevailing notions of purity. The other side of that coin is

that it brings more gazing eyes and a lack of privacy. Owning your sexuality is something men have been able to do since the beginning of time.

In the height of understanding our lack of privacy, it is important to further understand the disparities between men and women. As digital natives, we are growing up in a world that is at our fingertips. The disparities we see between men and women extend to boys and girls.

Girls are growing up with unrealistic expectations, and they are surrounded by it. Whether it is how to dress, how big your lips are, or where you go on vacation, it is no easy task to ignore what others think you should be doing.

Once someone gets sucked into the pressures of social media, it is hard to combat those pressures. According to EClinicalMedicine, almost 40% of girls who spend more than 5 hours on social media a day show depression symptoms, compared to less than 15% in boys.

Championing women is something that we could all do better. I am confident there will be a role reversal soon, and a woman will be where Chris Evans was. Only time will tell how the world receives it.

en, when was the last time someone complimented you? I’m not talking about when your friend said something forgettable like “nice shoes.”

I’m talking about a genuine compliment meant to boost your self-esteem.

There is no shame in letting other men praise your physique and bodily image. Even so, male selfesteem is rarely discussed, and building a culture that boosts morale is essential in these times of strife.

If you’re a straight, cisgender man, you’re probably thinking, “Shouldn’t women be asked to compliment us instead?”

The answer is no.

One reason for this is that women often cannot comfortably compliment a man without coming across as flirting with him. This is especially common with teens and young adults.

Be honest, there have been moments where you have been complimented by a woman on your appearance and instantly thought she was flirting with you. Your attempt to court was likely followed by a denial.

Another reason is that women, especially Black women, are currently experiencing the most difficult times of their lives.

They don’t have time to worry about you.

Now that that’s settled, men should be able to genuinely compliment each other. I say “should be able to” because there’s still a prevailing notion that equates male bonding with homosexuality.

You don’t have to constantly defend your heterosexuality. I personally still appreciate moments where the term “pause” is applicable as I see it more as a language game than a reveal of insecurities. Still, the diminishment of the

unsubtle phrase “no homo” is comforting as the phrase is met with awkwardness in the conversations in which I participate, witness or overhear from afar.

You need to be aware of your threshold regarding genuine compliments and sexual harassment. It’s important to realize that letting your thin veil of pride go helps you receive compliments better. If you are straight, it is imperative to realize a comment on your appearance is not an attack if it comes from another man.

Currently, Instagram is where I see women compliment each other’s appearance till the end of time. It sparks a bit of jealousy, I must admit.

Many women of all sizes deservingly receive endearing comments from completely straight women.

I definitely have never seen the word “ethereal” in even the most conventionally attractive male’s comment section.

The culture of complimenting other men comfortably has more of an effect than you probably believe. Recently, Rihanna’s rising brand, Fenty, unveiled their new line of men’s clothing, including plus-sized variations.

Plus-sized model Steven G. was met with elation as he graced the announcement with his presence. Much of the elation came from men, of course. They were surprised and thrilled that such a relevant brand highlighted a man of similar body type.

You never know what could make someone feel good about themselves.

Plenty of men struggle with body image issues.

Kind words can have an effect on someone’s outlook on more than just their outside appearance. Next time you see your friends, supplement a fist bump with a compliment.

OPINIONS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

7

In our modern society, everyone is an expert Expert opinions are being questioned and they should be ALYSSIA HARDGE Staff Columnist

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e go to experts for their opinions, thinking they know everything about everything, but when the world is constantly changing, are their opinions reliable? How can one know everything about a topic if we are learning new things every day?

In other words, how can one truly be an expert?

that we do now, everyone is an “expert” in their own way. We have the internet at the tip of our fingers. We are always one Google search away from knowing all the answers to a question. Remember when our parents used to tell us, “Don’t believe everything you read on the internet?”

In a technology-based world, why wouldn’t we?

We grew up believing that we could find all the answers on Google.

We can become makeup artists, hairstylists or IT techs in a matter of months. Take, for example, the Google Career Certificates. You can become a certified data analyst, project manager or IT technical specialist in just a short six months.

You can become an expert with just a couple of failed experiences and a can-do attitude.

Life is an endless game of trial and error.

Every day, we face new challenges and sometimes — ALYSSIA HARDGE have to find new ways to Staff Columnist overcome them. We learn something new every day, By definition, an so how can one ever be expert is “one with an expert? the special skills or You must allow yourself knowledge representing to grow. To do that, you mastery in a particular have to accept that you subject.” In my opinion, are not always going to be an expert is someone right, and you will make very knowledgeable in a mistakes because you’re subject, yet understands human. It’s what we do. that they don’t know I am not saying to everything. To find disregard all experts. We someone who spent their should still acknowledge entire life studying and mastering a specific topic, that expert opinion comes from endless but is open to admitting that they might be wrong, practice; these opinions can still be considered is rare. valuable. However, As humans, we live bear in mind that even for making mistakes; we experts disagree among don’t like being wrong or themselves, so don’t be seeking help. We won’t afraid to question them. admit that we learn We are human. We more from being wrong are learning. We are at then we did from being a place in society where right. We learn from our we can say, “Don’t trust experiences.

Living in the society the experts.”

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Living in the society that we do now, everyone is an “expert” in their own way.

”

ILLUSTRATION BY ROE GASSETT | THE SIGNAL

Stop blindly believing conspiracy theories

Conspiracy theories weaponize your opinions JENELLE RYAN Staff Columnist

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n recent years, conspiracy theories’ popularity has grown rapidly.

While some are drawn to them to pursue innocent fun, others are determined to find hidden truths that they are sure the government is hiding from them.

Whether the acceptance of these theories is motivated by entertainment, ignorance or radicalization of political beliefs, it’s time we take a step away from conspiracies and understand the dangers of blindly accepting them.

In the last year alone, Google experienced a 4,050% increase in the searched topic 5G. When searching “conspiracy” on Google, most of the top 16 related searches have to do with the COVID-19 pandemic, aside from “Bill Gates” (in eighth place) and “5G conspiracy theory (in 11th place).

YouTube celebrities like Shane Dawson have accrued millions of views from conspiracy theory videos. Farright conspiracy theorist Alex Jones has been the subject of many viral edits, who is well known for his emotional outbursts and outlandish theories on his now-banned YouTube channel.

Some theories simply exist as satire, poking fun at people who sincerely believe in them. Some examples include the conspiracy that Chuck E. Cheese recycles their leftover pizza, giraffes don’t actually exist and certain government officials and socialites are reptilians in human skin suits who strive for world domination.

The subreddit r/BirdsArentReal

mocks the conspiracy that birds do not exist and are merely government surveillance drones. The Clementine conspiracy (aka Project Golden Dragon) claims that the government is hiding a gold dragon-shaped mass the size

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While some conspiracies are in good fun, we need to be more aware of the ideas we are consuming.

— JENELLE RYAN

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Staff Columnist

of Manhattan on the dark side of the moon.

While theories of this caliber often don’t pose a danger to those consuming them, others aim to weaponize the masses through mob mentality. When enough people believe that a conspiracy holds truth, it sows public distrust, allowing their beliefs to be used as weapons by the theory’s author.

Conspiracy theories related to the government tend to be the most dangerous and widely accepted among citizens who doubt or distrust our country’s government.

QAnon, a dangerous far-right conspiracy group, believes that the government is run by a Satanworshipping liberal cult that kidnaps, slaughters and eats white children to gain power. In addition to these outlandish claims, they believe the cult controlled the Obama and Clinton administrations. They claim the Trump administration has forced this cult into a “deep state,” which is financed by Jewish media owners.

The QAnon conspiracy is terrifyingly similar to the Nazi propaganda found in “The Protocols of the Elders of Zion,” one of the most infamous anti-Semitic fabrications in history, as explored by Gregory Stanton in his article “QAnon is a Nazi Cult, Rebranded.”

While some conspiracies are in good fun, we need to be more aware of the ideas we are consuming. Just because a concept is new or uses interesting logic to draw conclusions doesn’t mean it holds any water.

Insidious themes can be hidden in otherwise harmless messages, leaving unsuspecting consumers unaware of the author’s ulterior motives. We must recognize the biases that inform a theory’s author and understand how our opinions and beliefs can be weaponized to attain their reasons.

This Week’s Spread: OPINIONS WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/OPINIONS

Biphobia and transphobia have no place in the LGBTQ+ community

and often looks different from homophobia. It’s usually more passiveaggressive and consisting of mean remarks.

Biphobia within the community is even perpetuated in the media.

Television shows such as Ryan Murphy’s “Glee” have been in hot water through the years for its biphobic dialogue. Kurt Hummel, one of the show’s leading characters and one of the first openly gay characters on TV, has a biphobic rant during one episode. This outburst happens when his friend Blaine is questioning that he might actually be gay.

Bi and trans individuals are suffering in a community they built ASHLAR BYLECKIE Staff Columnist

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art of growing up and going through growing pains is selfrealization, and it’s never easy. It’s incredibly hard when contemplating your sexuality or gender identity, and the world is telling you not to.

After finally realizing those things, you would think that acceptance and understanding would be abundant in your own community.

Surprisingly, this is not always the case, especially for bisexual and transgender individuals. Discrimination within the LGBTQ+ community is a genuine issue and often comes from gay and lesbian or cis-gendered members.

Bisexual individuals are often spoken down to and told what their sexuality is. In contrast, trans individuals have been told that the community focuses on sexuality and that they have to fight for their place in it. This ignorance within the community comes from the failure to see gender identity and sexuality as a spectrum and not concrete.

If the community claims to be a safe space for all, why are the “B” and the “T” in the “LGBTQ+” equation made to feel uncomfortable in their own community? This internal discrimination needs to stop.

Community members need to put an end to the biphobia and transphobia that plagues queer spaces. The community wouldn’t be as enriched or where it is today without bisexual and transgender individuals.

Biphobia is, “the fear and dislike of bisexual people and others who have the potential to be attracted to more than one genderl.” It can be perpetrated by anyone

Kurt responds, “‘Bisexual’ is what gay guys in high school use when the want to hold hands with girls and feel like a normal person for a change.”

He continues to say that his friend is going back into the closet and is “no being his truest self.”

A viewer can perceive this scene either as an authentic example of the biphobia people face every day or the validation of such ignorance by one of television’s first queer icons. Given the year and the dialogue’s pointedness, it felt like a personal attack on bi individuals instead of a comment on biphobia within the community.

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The last thing questioning people need is other people telling them what they are and whether they’re valid or not.

— ASHLAR BYLECKIE

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Staff Columnist

As a questioning pre-teen, that scene alone stuck with me and brought up many questions that I would continue to be asked, by myself and others, throughout the years.

Is bisexuality even real? Do I have the right to come out of the closet?

Am I just waiting to come out as gay, and I don’t know it yet? Questions like that already come from straight people, so to see a character say tho things, to whom I and thousands of other queer kids related, hurt.

Although it may seem like it’s just an episode of a show, many bisexual people have described real-life interactions similar to that. The last thing questioning people need is other people telling them what they are and whether they’re valid or not. We particularly don’t need to be questioned by gay members of the community who have likely had that same experience with straight people.

As confusing as our sexuality might be to other I assure you it’s more confusing for us.

Bisexuality is challenging

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ey .” not

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ose

l g

d

rs, . g

to accept within yourself because you have to embrace not knowing what the future may hold. One might compare bisexuality to permanently staring down Robert’s Frost’s famous poem, “The Road Not Taken.” On the road more traveled, life looks heteronormative, and all of the ideas you had as a kid about the typical American lifestyle — the spouse, the kids and the ease with which life comes, are all possible.

On the path less traveled, life looks different. It’s the possibility of experiencing discrimination in every aspect of life — from employment to marriage to kids and the general feeling of unsafety. Knowing that your life and the prejudice you may experience could go in two very different directions, based on the gender of who you fall in love with, is overwhelming. It’s an incredible amount of pressure.

When thinking about the future, bisexual individuals need love and support from gay community members more than ever. They need reassurance that if they happen to end up with a same-sex partner, their dreams can still come true and that normalcy is not lost on them. They also need to feel that they are still valid community members if they end up with an opposite-sex partner.

We need to empathize with each other more because we are the only people that can truly understand how our attraction and ability to love can negatively impact our lives.

that it’s “invalidating to gay people to be trans and heterosexual.” Some say it would be better for the gay community to have people living as gay people under their assigned gender, rather than straight and their true gender identity. That is a problematic mindset that implies that being trans is a choice when it is simply not.

This argument usually comes from TERFs, or “trans-exclusionary radical feminists,” an embarrassing community that somehow finds causation between the advocacy of trans issues and “lesbian erasure.”

This group is fueled by hate and the false idea that by putting down trans individuals, they will somehow shed light on lesbian and feminist issues.

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When we tear down bisexual and transgender people, we do the system’s dirty work for free.

— ASHLAR BYLECKIE Staff Columnist

The LGBTQ+ community needs to extend a sense of empathy to the trans community as well. Trans individuals are commonly discriminated against and made to feel uncomfortable in queer spaces while becoming comfortable in their own bodies.

Transphobia is similar to biphobia in definition but different in action.

We often see this through the invalidation of trans people’s membership in the group or their existence.

Many community members think that there should be a separation of trans issues and lesbian, gay or bi issues since there’s a difference between gender identity and sexual orientation. This separation leaves trans people feeling like they’re on the outs when they should feel included.

There are obvious differences between sexual orientation and gender identity that warrant a difference in advocacy approaches. Trans individuals are discriminated against much more harshly when it comes to public policy and general safety. As a community, we need to acknowledge this and rally around trans members with support, and not push them away to bear the burden of fighting for their rights alone.

Feeling at home in your body, and with the gender assigned to you at birth is a privilege. Supermodel and trans activist Geena Rocero describes the trans experience best.

“All of us are put in boxes by our family, by our religion, by our society, our moment in history, even our own bodies,” Rocero said. “Some people have the courage to break free.”

That courage should be admired and celebrated by trans allies.

Some of the animosity in the community comes from the existence of heterosexual trans members. I’ve heard the argument

”

These people have no ties to real allies and have been condemned by most mainstream LGBTQ+ activists.

Trans individuals, particularly trans women, shaped the LGBTQ+ community into what it is today and paved the way for all of us.

Let’s not forget that Marsha P. Johnson, a Black trans woman, was rumored to have thrown the first brick at the Stonewall riots, the catalyst of the modern gay liberation movement. She and Sylvia Rivera were some of the first people to combat the addiction and homelessness that so many LGBTQ+ individuals experience.

Trans individuals have always supported efforts made by gay activists.

It’s time that we acknowledge trans people’s place in the community and their efforts in building it.

The division within our community will only hurt us and dilute our passion for equality. People with hate in their hearts will always be able to unite on that basis. Suppose we, as a community, are divided on whether or not to stand up for each other. In that case, straight, cisgender people in positions of power will be able to invalidate our existence much more quickly.

That’s exactly what an oppressive system wants. People in power want us to fight and bicker over the minutiae of “who deserves what.” While we fight over who should get the shreds of validity in an oppressive system never designed for us, they will continue creating discriminatory policies for all of us.

To anyone who doesn’t respect our existence, we are all the same, a scapegoat for their hate. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget that.

When we tear down bisexual and transgender people, we do the system’s dirty work for free. We have to present a united front.

It shouldn’t be “equality for some of us.” It needs to be equality for all of us.

PAGE DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION BY MONIQUE ROJAS | THE SIGNAL

ARTS & LIVING

WWW.GEORGIASTATESIGNAL.COM/ARTSANDLIVING

Sigma Lambda Upsilon or Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. (SLU) is a Latina-based sorority founded in 1987 that made its way to Georgia State in 2012.

October 13, 2020

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SIGMA LAMBDA UPSILON

Familia y Cultura during Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month A celebration of identity and diversity with the Georgia State community ISA CARDONA Staff Reporter

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rom Latin music and fine art to space exploration and inspiring activism, the Hispanic/Latinx community’s contributions are countless.

Every year, Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, recognizing the community’s culture and contributions.

In celebration of the history, culture and legacy of this month, the Georgia State Hispanic/Latinx community shared their thoughts and experiences.

Sophomore Isabella Caraballo is proud of her Puerto Rican and Guatemalan heritage despite sometimes having difficulties connecting to it.

“I find it difficult to connect with a culture that a lot of parts of society try to wash away,” Caraballo said. “I think I am proud of my heritage because there are so many different people that have shaped it into the way it is, and it allows me to connect to more people in language as well as tradition.”

Children of immigrants sometimes struggle to maintain fluency in their mother tongue. Many were never taught their parent’s language or had to adapt quickly and learn English. As a result, they lose touch with an aspect of their native culture.

“My Spanish isn’t excellent, and sometimes that prohibits me from fully connecting to the people I wish I could,” she said. “Whether it’s my family or customers at work, it makes it difficult to connect.”

The culture includes music and food but also a robust familial spirit. This spirit allows for people in the community to feel connected despite the differences in nationality.

“There’s a big spirit of welcoming that comes with Latinx community,” Caraballo said. “If you enter into a Latinx house, there’s always a sense of family, which isn’t dependent on the country you’re from. Many households will greet you with wonderful food and welcoming arms.”

Sigma Lambda Upsilon or Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. (SLU) is a Latina-based sorority founded in 1987 that made its way to Georgia State in 2012. The sorority embraces women of all cultures, ethnicities and

backgrounds. It helps Hispanic/Latinx students connect with women from familiar cultures or who have similar college and life experiences.

Senior Andrea Gomez-Aparicio is proud of her diverse heritage because it is what makes her unique and connects her to the people she loves the most.

“My heritage is all of those who came before me — all my great-grandparents were from different parts in Colombia,” Gomez-Aparicio said. “Between native and European and anything else I might not know about, when I think of my heritage, I think of the brightest colors, folklore music and the mercados [markets] in my country.”

Heritage is a way for people to appreciate the future their ancestors paved the way for.

For senior Yajaira Escobar, heritage tells her story. Her Mexican culture is a part of her, like her fingerprint or DNA. “It is an inheritance of the history and hard work of my ancestors and the millions of people who came before me,” she said. “Heritage is an important concept that has surrounded my life, my family’s traditions and customs have shaped my identity and how I view the world.”

The Hispanic/Latinx culture is community-oriented, which is junior Isela Suarez-Perez’s favorite aspect of being Latina.

“I cannot put into words how much my community and my people mean to me,” Suarez-Perez said. “They are simply my biggest supporters and the reasons behind why I strive to be better. Being a part of this community is both a privilege and an honor. You learn so much from those around you, and are able to teach those that come after you.”

Hispanic/Latinx heritage is a multidimensional melting pot of different languages, cultures, ethnicities and races.

The overlap is what makes Hispanic/Latinx heritage so unique, but can also be a challenge.

“I think we all have different experiences, depending on our countries of origin and, unfortunately, race,” GomezAparicio said. “Many Latinx people have encountered hate towards them only because of the color of their skin and

their native features. Others are seen as ‘not Latinx enough’ because of the language they speak, their features and even what they enjoy to eat or listen to.”

Georgia State has a large Hispanic/Latinx community that is always willing to welcome new people. Many students can find their niche with clubs such as the Latin American Student Association, and programs such as LASSO and multicultural Greek life like SLU. “Through SLU, I was able to obtain leadership positions and skills. It has given me empowerment and confidence, along with the chance to become more aware of my culture and its people,” Suarez-Perez said.

Junior Lily Milani believes Georgia State has done a good job making safe spaces for Hispanic/Latinx students, but there is always more to improve.

“We just need to ensure that these organizations are receiving sufficient funding and support for them and their members,” Milani said. “Each of the organizations has support from the council that they are under, but I think it is important for Georgia State to publicly support all these organizations so that their members feel recognized by their institution rather than just their peers.”

First-generation students face various obstacles navigating through school without any familiar guidance.

Their backgrounds and lack of financial and academic support make many of these Hispanic/Latinx students underprepared for their college experience.

“Georgia State could focus on providing undergraduate students with academic assistance such as assigning them to mentors and tutors who come from similar backgrounds,” Milani said.

There is always something more to learn about Hispanic/ Latinx heritage from the community to the food and dancing.

“Latin America is so diverse,” Gomez-Aparicio said.

“We are all colors, shapes [and] forms. Our cuisine is so different and exquisite. So I’d like to challenge anyone reading this to try different plates from different countries.

Ask a [Hispanic/Latinx] person you know about their favorite holidays or music from their home country.”

ARTS&LIVING

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

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First-time voter prepares for election

Sophomore describes how he plans on voting this election KARA MARTIN Staff Reporter

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s the presidential election nears, the impending day can be nerve-wracking for both sides of the aisle. The stakes are high, and every vote matters, as this is one of the most publicized and controversial elections thus far.

Some young voters struggle in the election cycle and feel that their vote doesn’t matter or are uneducated about the voting process.

Other first-time voters like sophomore Curtis Kenner take their first ballots very seriously.

“Right now, there’s a lot of issues that are affecting America, such as race relations, health and public safety during a pandemic and climate change,” Kenner said.

“The outcome of this election is going to determine the very future ourselves and our children will live in.”

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The outcome of this election is going to determine the very future ourselves and our children will live in.

”

— CURTIS KENNER

Georgia State Sophomore Staying informed can be simple when political news is constantly shown on one’s timeline, but choosing the right candidate might take a little more effort. Websites such as Ballotpedia share information about the election and its candidates.

“I stay informed about politics [through] social

media platforms like Twitter and Instagram because, even without watching the debates on TV, you can’t get away from it because it consumes my entire timeline,” Kenner said. “Looking up and paying attention to what candidates say and seeing if their ideals match up with mine is the way I choose who works best for me.”

Registering to vote and figuring out which form of voting works best can seem complicated when voting for the first time. Luckily, there are websites like My Voter Page to check registration and other voting forms that do not require people to be at the polls on election day.

As the world fights against COVID-19, voting in-person and standing in long lines is not the best option for some as there are people who are at risk, or simply want to avoid the crowds. On the other hand, there is doubt that mail-in votes will make it to the election office given recent USPS delays. Weighing both options carefully, Kenner decided to cast his vote during early voting.

“Originally, I was planning on voting through the mail in the absentee ballot because of the pandemic, but I don’t want there to be a mix up with mail-in votes,” he said.

“Now, I plan on going in to vote early because I want to get it out the way as soon as possible.”

Understanding that his peers’ votes matter as well, Kenner encourages them to do their part of civic engagement. He pushes them to take their vote seriously and use their voices instead of just hoping things will change.

“This is my first year being old enough to vote for the presidential election,” Kenner said. “I know a lot of my peers feel like they don’t have the power to change to the community around them let alone the nation, but it starts with us.”

Kenner is unsure how the future will look after the election, but he is optimistic that his vote along with others will ignite the change that they want to see.

ILLUSTRATION BY MYAH ANGLIN | THE SIGNAL

A tribute to the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Remembering a notorious political giant DEENA KAYYALI Staff Reporter

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ew have created legacies that inspire millions around the world. The late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was one of those few.

Despite dealing with struggles and barriers early in her life, Ginsburg is credited with pivotal court cases and redefining gender roles. Because of these achievements, followers and admirers of the justice coined her the affectionate nickname, “The Notorious RBG,” a reference to the rapper Notorious B.I.G. Ginsburg was an avid academic when raising her children. She graduated at the top of her class from Cornell University. She was one of eight women in a 500-person graduating class at Harvard Law School and graduated first in her class at Columbia Law School.

After working for two years with U.S. District Judge Edmund Palmieri, she served as the American Civil Liberties Union’s Women’s Rights Project director.

She argued six landmark cases on gender equality before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Ginsburg began her journey with the U.S. government in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter appointed her to the U.S. Court of Appeals

for the District of Columbia.

After serving for 13 years, she was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993 by President Bill Clinton. There, she became a leading voice for gender equality and civil rights.

Ginsburg’s life and legacy have inspired women to break through the glass ceilings that are upheld by sexism, racism and other forms of bigotry.

Georgia State alumna Lipi Chokshi was part of WomanLead, a program that empowers women by organizing events that help with their career paths. The organization teaches women how to strengthen their resumes, prepare for interviews and enter the workforce. “[Ginsburg’s] legacy reminds me to be unapologetic for who I am and to not be afraid to leave my mark on the world,” Chokshi said. “When I show up for myself, I am also showing up for those who do not have a voice yet. I want to make it my responsibility to make sure those voices are heard, like [Ginsburg] did for so many others.”

As a former member of the PEACE club and the Student Alumni Association, Georgia State alumna Talar Rashid continues to be inspired by Ginsburg’s ability to lead and incite change.

“[Ginsburg] used her life to advocate social change for women, African Americans and other minorities who face systemic discrimination and inequality,” Rashid said. “She tirelessly fought for human rights and was a true example of skill, courageousness and benevolence.”

For many, Ginsburg exemplified power and justice. Her time in government came with standards of equality and fairness which inspired women to follow their dreams and never accept the confinements or barriers before them.

Ginsburg displayed her fearlessness of creating change when voicing dissents, which are opinions or philosophies in opposition to government or authority policies.

In a 2002 interview with NPR, Ginsburg said, “Dissents speak to a future age. It’s not simply to say, ‘My colleagues are wrong and I would do it this way.’ But the greatest dissents do become court opinions and gradually over time their views become the dominant view. So that’s the dissenter’s hope: that they are writing not for today, but for tomorrow.”

SPORTS

October 13, 2020

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ILLUSTRATION BY MYAH ANGLIN | THE SIGNAL

Top 10 moments in Falcons-Panthers rivalry Some of the Falcons Best games in the past 35 years MICHAEL CUNEO Staff Reporter

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he Atlanta Falcons are having one of the most unimpressive starts to a season in franchise history.

Following Sunday’s 26-16 loss to the division rival Carolina Panthers, the team remains winless in 2020, but holds a 32-19 record in the 35-year history of the series. Here are ten of the best moments in the long rivalry between the Falcons and the Panthers to take your mind off the atrocious play in recent weeks.

1. September 30, 2012: Falcons 30-28 Panthers

Those Falcons fans who remember the talent of former wide receiver Roddy White know this game was one of his best.

Atlanta was in front most of the game until the Panthers stormed back, pinning the team at their one-yard line, down one point, with 59 seconds to go.

Surprisingly, the Falcons went to a play-action out of their endzone before Matt Ryan threw a 59-yard bomb to White. The play set-up a series of quick completions that put kicker Matt Bryant in a position to nail a 40-yard field goal and win the game.

In perhaps his most memorable off-field moment, Ryan appeared to yell, “Get the f--- off my field,” to the Panthers as they exited the field.

2. December 18, 2004: Falcons 34-Panther 31 Overtime

demolished them just a few weeks before.

Quarterback Cam Newton, who would win NFL MVP and earn a Super Bowl appearance, led one of the most dangerous Panthers offenses in recent history. Both teams put up impressive defensive plays for most of the game until the Falcons went deep to Julio Jones.

In what is arguably one of Jones’s most spectacular catches, the Alabama product snagged a deep pass from Matt Ryan over the head of linebacker Luke Kuechly before scampering into the endzone for a 70-yard touchdown. The game ruined Carolina’s chance at a perfect season and showed that division rivalries are always action-packed.

4. December 11, 2011: Falcons 31-23 Panthers

The 2011 season feels like forever ago, partially because it was. Nine years ago, rookie Julio Jones was making his first impressions on the NFL world, and in this game against Carolina, he left a lasting mark.

The Falcons were playing poorly throughout most of the game (some things never change) until a late resurgence sparked by a pair of touchdown receptions by Jones fueled a 23-point comeback. Quarterback Matt Ryan threw three touchdowns in the second half, allowing the team to cruise to a comfortable victory.

Taking a trip back a decade and a half or so lands us in a time when Michael Vick was dominating the NFL with his unheardof quarterback play. At the time, NFL teams did not plan for the quarterback to run. There were no read options, no run-pass options, and certainly no quarterbacks faster than their receivers.

As such, the gameplans for defenses all changed when Michael Vick entered the league in 2001 and electrified a struggling Falcons offense. This game was no exception, and the Falcons found themselves down seven points on the final drive of regulation. Vick’s 12-yard touchdown secured an overtime spot for the Falcons, who would later win the game on a field goal from Jay Feely.

5. October 2, 2016: Falcons 48-33 Panthers

3. December 27, 2015: Falcons 20-13 Panthers

6. November 11, 2019: Falcons 29-3 Panthers

This game was quite crazy. The 7-8 Falcons came in as sevenpoint underdogs facing an undefeated Panthers team that had

In yet another spectacular performance from Julio Jones (starting to see a recurring theme here?), the Falcons offense was on fire. Throwing for 503 yards and four touchdowns, Matt Ryan exposed a weak Carolina secondary with the help of his favorite weapon in Jones The all-pro receiver set a franchise record, notching 300 receiving yards and one touchdown on the day. On a day when the Falcons were setting all sorts of records, the Panthers struggled to find their identity. Shortly after the game, the Panthers released cornerback Bene Benwikere, who tried to cover Jones.

In one of the Falcon’s most dominant games in Bank Of America Stadium in Charlotte, the team put on a defensive

masterclass. The Falcons defense was the highlight of the game, allowing just one field goal to the Panthers on the day.

On the offensive end receivers, Julio Jones and Calvin ridley combined for 234 yards and a touchdown. The game marked an ending to a 2019 campaign that saw Atlanta win six of their final eight games.

7. November 23, 2008: Falcons 45-28 Panthers

Matt Ryan may have only been a rookie in 2008, but he certainly didn’t play like one. Besides earning the nickname ‘Matty Ice’ for his multiple last game-winning drives, he also helped put up a whopping 45 points against Carolina in week 12. Rookie Harry Douglas also showed up big time in the game, returning a punt for a touchdown.

8. December 24, 2016: Falcons 33-16 Panthers

The Falcons swept the Panthers in 2016 in a fashionable style.

The 33-16 game helped the team take the NFC South division title and make a Superbowl appearance. The 2016 season was widely successful for the Falcons and quarterback Matt Ryan, who earned the NFL MVP.

9. December 8, 2019: Falcons 40-20 Panthers

The Falcons may have had a disappointing 2019 campaign, but as mentioned earlier, the team was able to win six of their final eight games, including this one against the Panthers. Matt Ryan threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns, including a 93-yard touchdown throw to wide receiver Olamide Zaccheaus.

10. September 3, 1995: Falcons 23-20 Panthers Overtime

It all started in an overtime thriller back in 1995. The Falcons won the game thanks to a 35-yard field goal in overtime from kicker Morten Anderson. The starting quarterback for Atlanta was Jeff Geroge, who threw for 290 yards and two touchdowns.

The Falcons-Panthers rivalry often goes overlooked, but the two teams have consistently played in extremely heated games, bringing the tensions between the two franchises even higher.

While Carolina has had their fair share of victory, the Falcons hold a dominating 32-19 overall series record.

SPORTS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

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Clint Capela is two-way starter Hawks needed

Atlanta’s new big man elevates offense and defense NAJEH WILKINS Staff Reporter

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lint Capela was the starting big for the Houston Rockets until they went completely small and changed their entire lineup. The Rockets sent their big man to Atlanta in a four-team trade in February.

In 2019-20, the Swissborn center averaged 13.9 points and 13.8 rebounds per game. Capela sat out the second half of the year due to injuries. Now healthy, his immediate impact will include the nightly role of a doubledouble machine and strong interior defense.

The Hawks ranked dead last in points allowed last season and allowed opponents to have the fifth-highest field-goal percentage in the league. Capela will help bolster those abysmal numbers and help Atlanta become a better defensive team.

The team lacked a player with shot-blocking ability for much of the last few years, and the change will benefit them well on that end.

Offensively, Capela is great for lobs, which bodes well for Trae Young when he slashes to the rim, and the defense collapses on him. On the other end, Capela’s ability to roll off screens will also allow Young to have more plays where the defense does not switch in time, leading to uncontested shots.

The Hawks’ center position has been an area of concern ever since Dwanye Dedmon left for the Kings in free agency a few years back. Now Capela can solidify the position.

Being a veteran in this league, Capela can provide a great mentor for the younger players, especially Young. Veteran leadership can help mature players quicker and emphasize what is most important, which is winning.

Capela has been on winning teams with

Houston and was even a game away from advancing to the NBA Finals a few years ago, which bodes well for a team still trying to figure out how to win consistently.

“We must mature to the point that we can prove we are a real team and get a playoff spot,” Capela said.

Another great aspect that Capela adds is his rebounding ability.

Throughout many of Atlanta’s close games last season, they struggled to rebound the basketball against more aggressive and taller teams.

As a frequent member of the league’s top 10 in rebounds, Capela’s strength helps on both ends of the floor: He will take away offensive rebounding chances for Atlanta’s opponents and boost his new team’s second-chance points.

Arguably the most intriguing storyline will be seeing how Capela and John Collins will co-exist.

Collins is undersized at his position but plays big, and Capela is the same way.

However, unlike Capela, Collins has demonstrated he can space the floor with his shooting ability. Capela’s game is solely inside the paint, crashing the boards and catching passes inside. If this duo clicks early, look for Atlanta to be dangerous in the later months of the 2020-21 season.

“I think we can help each other in what we do best,” Capela said about Collins.

The Capela trade was a massive step in the right direction for Atlanta.

His defensive ability, rebounding, veteran leadership, and slashing ability bodes well for a Hawks team that is still trying to figure it all out.

Capela can be the glue to young pieces that can fit and gel together and grow into something special in Atlanta.

Pounce wears a mask to follow the new guidelines set for attendees at Center Parc Stadium.

PHOTO BY MATT SICILIANO-SALAZAR | THE SIGNAL

Panther fans’ early impressions of Georgia State’s crowds

Some are content, some optimistic, but it is a change for all AARON WILSON JR. Staff Reporter

S

ports returned in July, beginning with the MLB’s condensed season. Then, the NBA successfully produced the Orlando Bubble. But they just felt different.

Cardboard cutouts filled baseball stadium chairs. The MLS and NBA’s biggest fans proved their love for their teams on the sideline’s virtual boards.

Times have changed recently, though. Fans are back!

The dynamic, game-changing spectators have returned to arenas, albeit with changes that should not surprise anyone.

Georgia State’s restrictions and guidelines for all sporting events, most notably in the Center Parc Stadium and GSU Sports Arena, mirror most of the country, if not the entire world when it comes to most events.

Each venue at Georgia State requires social distancing where possible. Additionally, face coverings are required even before entering the stadium.

“All individuals with a ticket and attending Georgia State football games at Center Parc Stadium are required to wear an approved personal face covering at all times while within the stadium perimeter,” the school stated in a press release last month.

The stadium perimeter begins inside the Olympic Gates off

Georgia Avenue and stretches to the security queues at all stadium entrances and will call windows.

The Sept. 18 volleyball game against the Mercer Bears was the first sporting event held at Georgia State in the Fall. Georgia State enforced the protocols, and the event went off without any significant incident. Players could wear a mask on the court if they wanted to, and the school requires the crowd to wear masks.

This strictness has held throughout all sports, including the football team’s rout of East Carolina on Oct. 3. The protocols were much more prominent, as the typical sea of blue became dispersed blocks of family members and friends.

With attendance capped at 50%, the Panther Band spreads the out through their usual sections of the crowd. There have been times that students have had to be reminded of the rules, as senior Ca’shawn Brown described what she saw at the game.

“The [COVID-19] protocols did not bother me or my friends, really,” Brown said. “The only thing that jumped out to me [was] that security had to break up crowds of students multiple times. Aside from that, it felt fine.”

With the reduced number of fans and protocols in place, it has not been a massive detriment to most fans, parents and players who come

to the events.

“So far, I think [Georgia State] has done a pretty good job. I don’t have to go [to] many places, but when I have seen any crowds or events on TV, they look spaced out.

There have not been many cases here, so they must be doing a good job,” Alexander Hodgson said as he returned from the dining hall.

Georgia State continues stressing comfortability and risk management for its fans attending events. However, they can only control so much; there is no way to completely mitigate the risk of going to a sporting event.

“I believe in how the protocols are working. I mean, the Panther Band has been clear of any positive test. I haven’t heard anyone else testing positive,” color guard member Taylan Cheeks said.

“For the band, it looks like all the protocols are working, so I have no reason to distrust the measures being taken. There is always a chance something happens, but so far, so good.”

Overall, that is what it comes to: The University System of Georgia will keep giving the fans a choice on whether they attend and under what circumstances. That choice, coupled with the proper protocols, is all that most people ask. So far, it has turned out successfully for Georgia State and fans alike, which is a win for all involved.

October 13, 2020

UNIVERSITY

STATE

NATIONAL

Panthers recognized by Sun Belt for academics

The Atlanta Braves are in the NLCS — This is not a typo

Your 2020 NBA champions, the Los Angeles Lakers

This past week, the Sun Belt Conference recognized 222 Georgia State student-athletes for their exceptional talents in the classroom during the 2019-20 school year.

Georgia State’s cumulative 3.44 GPA only ranked behind Arkansas State in the conference. The Sun Belt named 126 Panthers to the Commissioner’s List and 96 more on the Academic Honor Roll. The Commissioner’s List honors a 3.5 GPA or higher, and the Academic Honor Roll rewards those who maintain between a 3.0 and 3.49 GPA.

The last time the Atlanta Braves made it this far into the MLB postseason, they lost to the eventual 2001 World Series champion Arizona Diamondbacks in five games in the National League Championship Series.

The Braves enter the series following sweeps of the Cincinnati Reds in two games and the Miami Marlins in three. However, the Los Angeles Dodgers are the favorite to win the National League pennant. They remain unbeaten following sweeps of the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres.

ts

en

en

-

S

ud St

Student STATEments Azalynn Goudy, Georgia State Sophomore

H

E S I GNA L

-T

THREE BIG THINGS

GAMES SUDOKU

t statem

tand up for yourself and your own beliefs.

The Los Angeles Lakers capped the longest NBA season in the league’s 74-year history Sunday night, winning their 17th championship in franchise history.

LeBron James his fourth NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award after defeating the Miami Heat in six games. He posted 28 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists while his partner in crime Anthony Davis scored 19 points and grabbed 14 points. The title is the first for Davis in his eighth season.

THE KICKBACK

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2020

GAMES

15

COMIC

Your Comic should be Here!

UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY

GSU Movie Club: The Magic Pill 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Virtual

Consent Circle 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Virtual

Fun Faces with a Caricature Artist 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Virtual

Starting a Business 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Virtual

Talk Tuesday’s: Women of Color & the Racial Origins of Fatphobia 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Virtual

Game Rivals 8:00 p.m. - 11:59 p.m.

Virtual Prizes for Winners

Atlanta SGA Senate Meeting 7:15 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Student Center West 460/462

OCT 16

THURSDAY OCT 15

WEDNESDAY OCT 14

TUESDAY

The Secret to Nailing Your Job Interview is STORYTELLING 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Virtual

SUNDAY

MONDAY

VeloCity Fundraiser Bike Ride for Grady Hospital 10:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virtual

8th Annual Biketober: Atlanta’s Bike Challenge All Month Virtual

Panther Pink Day 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Georgia State’s Spotlight Instagram page

Little Five Points Halloween Parade 4:00 p.m.

Virtual

Terra inFIRMA Until end of December Virtual

OCT 19

SATURDAY OCT 18

OCT 17

OCT 13

THE KICKBACK

A Book Talk Featuring Author and Researcher Andrew I. Cohen 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Virtual