2019 Welcome Back

WELCOME

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WELCOME BACK 2019

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Table

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A MeSSage from the Chan cellor

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Letter from the editor

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Fall tv

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A MeSSAge from your Student body preSident

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fall gamin g roun dup

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UNC CHarlotte Sen iorS Run n in g for oFFice

A poSt-Shootin g ConverSation with Chan cellor DuboiS

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A Guide to parkin g

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Fall conStruction update

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SGA’S 49 thin gS to do thiS year

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2019 charlotte 49erS update

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The queen City’S coffee

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Switchin g it up: Coachin g chan geS

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for when thin gS get StreSSful: C A PS

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FirSt Week EventS

on campuS for the 2019-2020 School year

20 releaSeS

2019 fall movie

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Hired & Retired

editor-in-Chief:

MadiSon DobrzenSki Niner timeS Staff: n ikolai mather, megan bird, elizabeth McGuire, Sam Palian, n oah Howell, ken nedy Hehr, max youn g, olivia LawleSS,

an d

emily Hickey

gueSt contributorS: chan dler Crean

an d

tahlieah SampSon

creative director: jameS bourke SaleS Team: ridge Gant

an d

Joe Calhoun

n iner media adviSor: wayne maikranz Marketin g adviSor: Kelly MergeS

graphicS & Production: JoShua Wood

BuSinESS Man ager: Laurie Cuddy

WELCOME BACK 2019

oFFice Man ager: Kelly Dudden

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a meSSage from the chan cellor

Photo courtesy of the Chancellor’s Office

On behalf of the entire Niner Nation community, welcome home! I hope you have come to believe, as I do, that choosing UNC Charlotte is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.

As North Carolina’s urban research university, we have the distinction of being the only public institution serving Charlotte, the state’s largest city and an exciting hub of cultural and recreational activities in this region.

I am fortunate enough to have served the university since 2005 as its fourth Chancellor. Before that, I was UNC Charlotte’s Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for almost six years, from 1991 to 1997. The growth that has occurred on this campus in the past two decades is nothing short of phenomenal, and it continues today.

This growth can be attributed to our expanding reputation as an outstanding university with​faculty and staff who are truly committed to student success. And we offer amazing opportunities in academics, research, community engagement, the arts, and athletics to provide a college experience second to none. ​To take full advantage of that experience, you truly need to be an active participant on campus, both inside and outside of the classroom. There’s no shortage of clubs, teams, and opportunities for you to consider as avenues for your personal involvement. These really are the best years of your life; make them count! O ​ ur research about students is very clear -- busy students are successful students. ​ Because of our ever-present construction projects, some have said that UNCC stands for “Under New Construction Constantly.” That is certainly the case right now with the opening of the new Gage Undergraduate Admissions Center, the expected January completion of the University Recreation Center, and the recent groundbreakings for the new Science Building and a Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. And, of course, the beautifully transformed Belk Plaza is a wonderful new addition to the heart of our campus.

In addition to new and renovated buildings, we’re also thrilled that light rail has finally made its way onto campus. It was a long wait, but totally worth it! All you need is your student identification card and you are good to go.

Lisa and I look forward to seeing you around campus, perhaps at a concert or an athletic event. Remember, our first home football game of the season is coming up in just a couple weeks when we face Gardner Webb University on Thursday, August 29, at 7:30 p.m. Be a part of history for our first-ever Thursday night game! ​

Go Niners!

Philip L. Dubois Chancellor WELCOME BACK 2019

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Letter from the editor: welcome back to n in er n ation Content warning: References shooting of April 30 To my fellow 49ers, Welcome back to your home away from home. We’re about to begin another year -- didn’t the summer go by way too quickly?

We definitely ended the 2018-2019 school year abruptly. We ended it in such a way that is probably making it difficult for some of you to return to UNC Charlotte.

Whether you are starting your senior year here at UNC Charlotte or a first-year beginning your journey here, you may feel some apprehension about being on campus after the event of April 30. I know I do.

April 30 was easily one of the worst days of my life, if not the absolute worst. Fearing for my life in my place of learning, a place I’ve considered home now for over two years, will haunt me for the rest of my life. The thought that two of my peers went to their last day of classes and didn’t make it out alive...that crosses my mind every single day. The deaths of Ellis “Reed” Parlier and Riley Howell, the injuries of Drew Pescaro, Rami Al-Ramadhan, Sean DeHart, Emily Houpt, and the scars on our community will not be forgotten as we enter the year following the tragedy.

NT File Photo

In order for us to continue as a strong institution and as a strong community, we have to be there for one another. We have to understand that everyone’s recovery process is different. For some people, stepping foot on campus will not bother them. For others, the thought of going to class brings about an indescribable anxiety. Some people left campus as soon as the campus was no longer on lockdown -- others may have been in Charlotte all summer long. Regardless of your feelings on coming on campus this year, we must remember Chancellor Dubois’ motto for the year: “We are all Niners.” We are all 49ers, and that means we all will remember how we ended the 2018-2019 school year. We will not forget those who lost their lives, those who were injured (physically and mentally) and those whose freedom to attend class without fear has been taken away from them.

While we enter this new school year, I ask you all to take care of one another. If you notice your friend skipping class an unhealthy amount, politely talk to them about it. If your friend is sleeping a worrisome amount, urge them to see a professional. If someone you know needs someone to walk with them on campus, be that person for them. Pay attention to your peers. Take care of them and take care of yourself.

I urge you all to consider using the resources that Counseling and Psychological Services are offering us in the coming months. I urge you all to communicate with your professors about how you are feeling. I urge you all to put your health above your classwork, always.

Us at the Niner Times know that we will carry the tragedy of April 30 with us for the rest of our lives, but that doesn’t mean we have to do it alone. We are all Niners and we will get through this together.

During this upcoming year, if you want to submit a story, letter to the editor, concern or anything of that nature about the shooting or otherwise, feel free to email me at editor@ninertimes.com. I want to be available to all of you. My job is to tell the stories of the student body through journalism. I’m excited to get to tell your stories this year and I hope those stories show the growth of our student body since last year. I can’t wait to grow with all of you.

Take care, Madison Dobrzenski Editor-in-Chief

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WELCOME BACK 2019

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WELCOME BACK: Photo by Chris Crews Photo of Chandler Crean, Student Body President, at candle light vigil on May 1

by Chandler Crean Student Body President

Welcome 49ers! It is my great pleasure as the 2019-2020 Student Body President to serve you all here at UNC Charlotte.

My name is Chandler Crean and I wanted to introduce myself and my cabinet to you all as the leaders and voices of campus incentives and concerns. I am currently a senior expected to graduate in May of 2020 with a double major in Finance and Management from Fayetteville, N.C. As the Student Body President, I was elected to represent the Student Body in dealing with the faculty, the administration, the Board of Trustees, official guests and many others. Many of the responsibilities that I and many of my cabinet members are tasked with throughout the year goes unseen, and I believe that the students should be aware of how much we as students can make a difference and the decisions we are apart of.

When running for the office of Student Body President and Vice President, you are allowed a cabinet to assist them on their platform. Below is a short bio of the leaders on campus that are in many discussions that affect you as a student and can be a great point of contact.

Adela Mann is currently serving as the Student Body Vice President and is a rising senior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in women and gender studies from Chapel Hill, N.C. As the Vice President, she will assist me in the performance of my various duties and work on any incentives that she sees best fit.

Michael Cacossa is currently serving as the Student Body Treasurer and a rising junior majoring in business management from Waxhaw, N.C. In this role, he will ensure all financial policies of the Student Government Association, or the expenditure of any funds budgeted to the Student Government Association or the various student organizations, complies with the budget procedures set forth by the Student Activity Fees Commission.

Jaylaan Bennett is currently serving as the Chief of Staff and a rising senior majoring in psychology with a minor in public health from Irmo, S.C. As the Chief of Staff, she will coordinate our meetings, record meeting attendance and

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A message from your student body president

minutes, and supervise all other members of the Executive Cabinet.

Tahlieah Sampson is currently serving as the Press Secretary and a rising junior majoring in political science with a minor in legal studies from Raleigh, N.C. As the Press Secretary, she will serve as a liaison between the Executive Branch of SGA and all UNC Charlotte Student Media entities.

Craig White is currently serving as the Student Body Webmaster and a rising junior majoring in computer science from Cameron, N.C. In this role, he will Administer and revise the Student Government Association website as needed.

Hilda Kolawole is currently serving as the Secretary for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and a rising senior double majoring in political science and sociology with a minor in communication studies from Raleigh, N.C. In this role, she is tasked with securing the needs of all members of the Student Body, by educating, developing and engaging students regarding their various identities such as their gender, socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual identity, etc.

Camille Reynolds is currently serving as the Secretary for Student Affairs and a rising senior majoring in marketing with a marketing and innovation concentration from Fort Lauderdale, F.L. In this role, she will secure the general social and personal welfare of the Student Body by acting as a liaison between SGA and UNC Charlotte’s Division of Student Affairs departments.

Kasey Everette is currently serving as the Secretary for Academic Affairs and a rising junior majoring in marketing from Fuquay-Varina, N.C. In this role, she will maintain awareness of any academic changes affecting the Student Body by working directly with the Provost and other departments across campus.

Riley Berger is currently serving as the Secretary for Athletic Affairs and a rising sophomore majoring in marketing from Charlotte, N.C. In this role, he will secure the general social welfare of the Student Body through athletics advocacy and serving as the liaison between SGA and the Athletic

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Department.

Vivian Ojimadu is currently serving as the Secretary for State and National Affairs and a rising senior dual major in health systems management and public health from Nigeria.

In this role, she will keep the President and SGA current with any state and national issues that may affect the Student Body.

Rom Profesorsky is currently serving as the Secretary for Business Affairs and a rising senior majoring in computer science from Cary, N.C. In this role, he will serve as the liaison between SGA and our division of Business Affairs, such as Parking & Transportation Services, Auxiliary Services, Information Technology and many others!

Imani Gill is currently serving as the Association of Student Governments Campus Liaison and a rising junior majoring in communication studies with a minor in urban youth and communities from Raleigh, N.C. In this role, she will serve as an ambassador of our Association alongside each respective UNC System campus.The three following students were elected by the Student Body to secure the general welfare of their specific class as being the main voice and incentives they see best fit.

Mitchell Haughee is currently serving as the Sophomore Class President and majoring in systems engineering from Apex, N.C. Lantzen Lowe is currently serving as the Junior Class President and majoring in computer science from High Point, N.C. Jocelyn Kearney is currently serving as the Senior Class President and majoring in accounting from Fayetteville, N.C. You can keep up with us by following us on Instagram @CreanMann for updates on the cabinet with meeting/events and ways to get involved. I would like to wish you all the best of luck this upcoming year, and if there is anything we as a cabinet could assist you on, please feel free to reach out! More information can be found on our website: sga.uncc.edu.

WE ARE ALL NINERS!

WELCOME BACK 2019

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by Noah Howell Arts & Entertainment Editor

a guide to parking on campus for the 2019-2020 school year

It is no secret that UNC Charlotte’s parking--especially given its size--is one of the school’s biggest obstacles for students, faculty and visitors alike. Forgetting any horror stories you might have heard, the process of parking on campus is not at all difficult if you know what you’re doing. This guide will give you the basics on parking, including all that you may need to know as a new student on campus or simply a refresher course for those returning.

The first thing to get across--parking is not free. There are times on the weekends when passes are not enforced, but if you’re reading this, then that probably won’t be the only time you’ll be parking on campus. There are three main passes you’ll be looking at--and really only two since you’re probably a student reading this -- which include Resident, Commuter and Faculty/Staff. If you are living in campus housing and plan on bringing your car, then the resident permit is for you. If you live off-campus and commute to school, then you probably already guessed it, you’ll want the commuter pass.

That brings us to where you can actually get the pass. The primary option most take is buying it online through the Parking and Transportation Services (PaTS) website at pats. uncc.edu. Here, you can pick from resident or commuter, both of which go for $480 for the full year for the 2019-2020 school year. To buy the pass online, you’re going to need your NinerNet login, license plate number and your vehicle’s information (basically the make/ model and some other information on the car you plan on parking on campus). If you’re buying in person, you will need your 49er ID Card, vehicle registration card and, if the car is registered in another state, proof of insurance. It is also important to note that if you like to back in when you park, meaning your back license plate isn’t in clear view, then you will need to buy an alternative license plate for the front of your vehicle from PaTS for $20.

Now that you know how to get a pass, you’re probably wondering where on earth to park on a campus this big. Thankfully, it is a fairly easy process to figure out. Each parking lot and deck should have a sign posted outside their respective entrance indicating who can park there. If you want to plan ahead, you can find the map to campus parking on PaTS’ website once again. At the time of this guide being written, residents can park in the blue and orange spaces on the map and commuters can park in the yellow and orange zones.

Looking at the Resident permit specifically, if you are living in South Village, your best bet to park is either Lot 8 or the adjacent South Village Deck. If you are in North Village, it is a similar situation where your best options are Lot 25 or the nearby North Deck. For those in East Village, Lot 6 or Lot 13 are probably your safest options. If you are commuting, then you’re more then likely going to have to settle with the major parking decks in North Deck, Union Deck, West Deck or two of the three East Decks that are not limited to Faculty/Staff.

While North Deck is a bit of a hike from everything, it is the spot PaTS advises for those struggling to find nearby parking and thankfully has a stop of the Green Line bus to get you to the main campus easier.

With the “where” out of the way, we end with “how” to park and avoid getting a citation

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from PaTS. For pretty much all of the parking areas, PaTS uses your license plate to keep track of whether you can actually stay parked where you are. For most decks when you pull up, the gate will raise after the machine verifies your license plate. If for some reason it does not, you can also use your 49er ID card to raise the bar by tapping it on the card reader.

Once you are in the lot or deck, only park inside the designated lines in the proper spots (basically, don’t try to get creative in making your own space). The bottom line of avoiding a citation is: don’t park where you’re not supposed to and make sure your license plate is visible and facing out of the spot. If you do for some reason get a citation (accidents and emergency parking can happen), then your options are to pay the citation online, through the mail, or in-person at the PaTS office. You can also appeal the citation if you have a really good reason for your ticket and can have the cost waived if approved (I can speak from experience that this can, in fact, happen). Also, if it is your first citation of the academic year, you can get 50 perecent knocked off the price if paid within 10 days.

For some extra information to throw in at the end provided by the PaTS website, the peak parking demand occurs between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. You may find it difficult to find parking during the first couple weeks of the semester, but fret not, this usually subsides after people become settled in. When you’re coming and going from campus, you’ll probably want to avoid doing so between the times of 7:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., which PaTS claims to be the busiest traffic times on campus. Hopefully, with all of this knowledge in mind, you can have a much easier time when it comes to parking on campus.

STUDENT NINER MEDIA

Photo by Patrick Magoon

fall conStruction update

by Megan Bird News Editor

A guide to what’s new in the world of campus construction

While students moved back home, went on vacation or started jobs for the summer, construction on UNC Charlotte’s campus continued on. The University Recreation Center, Moore Hall, the Hotel and Conference Center, and the new science building have all changed the landscape of campus. Here’s an update for what you can expect as you return to campus for the 2019-20 school year: University Recreation Center Planning for the new fitness center began in 2005 with an expected opening of mid-fall 2019, which has recently changed to spring 2020. The 160,000 square foot project will have an indoor pool, outdoor pool, four multi-purpose courts for basketball, volleyball, badminton, etc., five multi-purpose studios for group fitness classes, 80+ group fitness classes per week, cardio and strength training equipment spread over four levels, outdoor space for yoga, and outdoor basketball and volleyball courts. The project is valued at $66 million.

Photo courtesy of UNC Charlotte, Office of the Chancellor

Science Building The new science building, located at Craver and Mary Alexander roads, is intended to meet the demands of UNC Charlotte’s growing STEM community, where nearly 50 percent of students with declared majors have chosen STEM-related fields. Currently, contractors are continuing masonry and roofing for the RUP/Data Center and the foundations for the building proper are being poured. The project has an estimated completion of early 2021 and will house the Biology, Chemistry and Physics Departments. It will have 130,000 square feet of classrooms and laboratories, a utility plant, data center, and café. The project is valued at $101 million.

Photo courtesy of UNC Charlotte Facilities Management

Moore Hall Demolition is underway and is expected to be completed in October. Residence Hall Phase XVI, which will replace Moore and Sanford Halls, is estimated to complete in summer 2021. The new residence hall will offer more affordable rooms with 682 beds and group shower/restroom facilities. The project is valued at $58.5 million.

UNC Charlotte Marriott Hotel and Conference Center Excavation of the site, located between the PORTAL building and J.W. Clay Boulevard, is underway. Underground rock blasting is finished. The project is estimated to complete in early 2021 and will have 24,000 square feet of space to support symposia of up to 500 individuals with 226 hotel rooms. The project is valued at $87 million.

WELCOME BACK 2019

Photo courtesy of Clark Nexsen

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2019 Charlotte 49ers Preview

Photo by Chris Crews

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STUDENT NINER MEDIA

As a new semester begins, so do many Charlotte sports seasons

by Sam Palian Sports Editor

It seems like every year, something big changes with the Charlotte 49ers. Between coaches, players, the athletic director and everything in between, things can switch around pretty quickly. This goes for programs other than Charlotte too. Going into the 2019 season, there is yet again almost an entirely new football staff as well as a new head softball coach, baseball coach and an assistant women’s basketball coach. Aside from the coaching changes, each program looks for a fresh start every season and the first of those teams are football, men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, and cross country.

Women’s soccer Women’s soccer kicks off gameplay on Sunday, Aug. 11 at UNCG at 1 p.m. These women came out of 2017 with a winning record of 11-8-2 after reaching the Conference USA final and falling to North Texas following overtimes and penalty kicks. The next season was one without powerhouse goal-scorer Martha Thomas who graduated in May 2018. The Niners found themselves unable to fill her boots and make up for the lost goals. Junior Megan Greene did manage to lead the team in goals with eight, but even with Julia Grainda just behind with five goals, it wouldn’t be enough to give the team a winning season. The shots simply were not hitting the back of the net for Charlotte in 2018, and they finished with a record of 8-9. This year, with seven incoming freshmen and eight returning seniors, the Niners will look to produce a more powerful offense and find themselves in the postseason once again.

Men’s soccer The men’s side of the sport begins their season at Transamerica Field on Friday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. Kevin Langan and his crew were a little better off come to the end of the regular season. Charlotte finished with a 14-5-2 record following a loss to Kentucky in the C-USA Championship final and second-round loss to Virginia Tech in the NCAA tournament. After two consecutive seasons of making the conference championship and not being able to win, the Niners will look to return to the final and bring home a championship this time, and potentially reach the NCAA tournament as well. Having lost players like Daniel Bruce, Callum Montgomery, Dean Rutherford and Tommy Mad-

den, who have all been vital parts of the team, it’s possible the group will have a lot of scoring to make up for. On the other hand, even when losing some of its talents, the program has remained fairly steady.

This season will be one in which to maintain and develop the players that already have the experience as well as the 10 freshmen present on the roster. Players like senior Teddy Chaouche and redshirt senior Maclean Holbrook, who’s spent a good deal of time off the field due to injuries, will help to keep the team moving forward in 2019. Standout goalkeeper Elliot Panicco enters his senior season as well, setting up redshirt junior GK Austin Mullis and freshman Ryan Burg to continue to improve and prepare to take on the role as well. The Niners meet Kentucky on Sunday, Sept.

15 at Transamerica Field at 7 p.m. to begin their conference schedule.

Football The Will Healy era of Charlotte Football hits the field under the lights for their first game on Thursday, Aug. 29 at 7:30 p.m. inside Jerry Richardson Stadium. The Niners are coming off of an emotional final season with the program’s first head coach, Brad Lambert. Lambert’s last game as Charlotte’s head coach was a win over FAU, barring the Owls from a chance at a bowl game, allowing the 49ers to finish their season with a 5-7 record after finishing 1-11 in the season prior. Attitude isn’t everything when it comes to finishing with a winning season according to the numbers; there’s obviously the scores to consider. Nonetheless, it looks as if the attitude of everyone surrounding Charlotte’s football program could be enough to propel them into their first winning season since the first game in 2013.

It’s a domino sort of effect in which they know they are going to win games and put butts in seats, so it’s exactly what it seems like they will do. Time will tell, as will the scoreboard, at least in reference to games won. As far as the butts in the seats go, that may not be quite as dependent on the scores in 2019. The team is working hard day in and day out and intend to be outstanding. Support of Charlotte 49ers Football has grown immensely since the hiring of Healy was announced for a number of reasons and it’s imperative to the program that this support continues and grows. With seniors like Benny LeMay, Alex Highsmith, Ben DeLuca, Jeff Gemmell, other standouts like Victor Tucker, Chris Reynolds, Jonathan Cruz and many others on the roster of 100 plus athletes, the team is hopeful to prove that they’re a force to be reckoned with in 2019. No one is blind to the hard work it will take, but improvements

WELCOME BACK 2019

are certain and they’re adjusting and fine-tuning in any way they can. Of course, these improvements won’t occur just like that and the program has a lot of ground to cover before they’re where they want to be. Once again, time will tell.

Volleyball

Volleyball begins their season in Halton Arena with the Charlotte Invitational starting on Friday, Aug. 30 at 10 a.m.

The team recently gained a new assistant coach in Ana Pego and heads into the 2019 season with head coach Karen Weatherington entering her fifth year. The team made it to the first round of C-USA Championship in 2018, falling to Rice 0-3 and finishing the season 16-15. The Niners have not made it past the first round in the postseason since rejoining Conference USA in 2013 and have made it to the first round on three occasions in 2014, 2017 and 2018.

Weatherington and her coaching staff will try to capitalize on the talent present on the roster. The team will feature the young talent of four freshmen, four sophomores, two juniors, and five seniors returning. A recurring characteristic of this team is that they have the ability to win, tend to have a winning streak at one point or another and can’t seem to keep it going. Having lost in the first round of the CUSA tournaments in both 2017 and 2018, the team can certainly get there but has to maintain the same structure and mentality that they have when they are winning games during the regular season.

Cross Country The cross country team heads into the 2019 season preparing for the C-USA Championships on Nov. 2 The Niners kick off their season with the Charlotte Opener at Franke Liske Park on Friday, August 30 beginning at 10 a.m. The Niners will be losing C-USA Cross Country Male Athlete of the Year Tom Nobles and with the loss of a few seniors, runners like Paul Arredondo, Matt Bonkamp, Alex Cornwell and Zach Marchinko, who was named an NCAA Southeast All-Region Honoree along with Nobles, performed well last year as well and will still be with the team this season. On the women’s side, Bridget Abbatiello, Taylor Brown and sophomore Chandler Norton will return to work to continue to set new personal-bests and help propel the team into the postseason. With a competitive schedule on the horizon, Charlotte will gear up for 2019 season to keep competing and to grow as athletes.

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Switchin g It up: Charlotte 49erS coachin g chan geS

by Kennedy Hehr Assistant Sports Editor

As the 2019-20 school year approaches, several sports teams will be getting underway.

Athletic Director Mike Hill has made some changes going into his second year at Charlotte. The most notable changes were to coaching staffs of several teams. After evaluating each team and the seasons they had last year, Hill had the vision to transform teams in hopes of having more success in the future.

Offensive Coordinator Alex Atkins, Quarterbacks Coach Mark Carney, Co-Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Brandon Cooper. The group also includes Running Backs Coach Sean Dawkins, Wide Receivers Coach Montario Hardesty, Cornerbacks Coach Eddie Hicks, Nickels Coach Tommy Langford, Special Teams Coordinator Max Thurmond, Tight Ends Coach Cody Woodiel and a few graduate assistants.

Baseball

Photo by Chris Crews

Football In 2011, Brad Lambert was named head coach of Charlotte’s first football team. He was all Charlotte ever knew. In the first two years, Charlotte was a part of the FCS and the following four years they were competing in the FBS. Lambert led the team to a 21-48 overall record. Proceeding the 2018 season, Hill hired Head Coach Will Healy from Austin Peay University. Healy turned the Governor football program around in just three years and was an Eddie Robinson Award winner as the National FCS Coach of the Year. He is known for his excellent recruiting skills. After an 0-11 season at Austin Peay, he recruited an abundance of new players that led them to an 8-4 season the year after.

“My job is to make sure this program has the opportunity to take the next step,” Healy said.

Hill, Healy and the football team are confident in their abilities as a program and the expectation is to win football games, not to hope to win them. Hill was aware of the questions that may arise about hiring a 33-year-old coach whose only experience was at the FCS level for three years. Hill knew Healy’s young drive would be a contributing force for Charlotte football.

Healy is joined by Assistant Head Coach and Co-Defensive Coordinator Marcus West,

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After 27 years with Charlotte, Coach Loren Hibbs retired as the head baseball coach. With nearly three decades at Charlotte, Hibbs will join his alma mater, Wichita State, as Assistant Athletic Director for Baseball Operations and Player Development. Hibbs led the baseball team to 15 seasons of 30 or more wins and five NCAA tournament appearances.

A Charlotte native and experienced baseball player, Robert Woodard, was named head coach. He spent three seasons as the pitching coach at UNC Chapel Hill and previous seasons at UNCW and Virginia Tech.

Woodard is the all-time winningest pitcher in Tar Heel history.

He was a three-time All-ACC candidate with a 34-5 overall record and a 22-0 home record.

Photo courtesy of Charlotte 49ers Athletics Woodard was drafted in the 20th round by the San Diego Padres and spent three seasons in their organization before starting his coaching career.

“He has been part of one of the best coaching staffs in baseball over the past several years, and he is widely respected in collegiate and professional baseball circles,” said Hill. “We’re looking forward to welcoming him home.”

Woodard is joined by Associate Head Coach Bo Robinson, Assistant Coach Toby Bicknell, and Volunteer Assistant Ross Steedley.

The baseball team is looking for a better season in 2020 after coming off a 21-31 season.

Coach Woodard is ready to get going and prepare to be a top contender in Conference USA.

STUDENT NINER MEDIA

Charlotte 49ers add several new coaches to Niners coaching staffs

Softball Aimee DeVos, a long-time coach of the softball team was not retained following the 2019 season with Charlotte after a 630-711-2 record in her 25 years. DeVos dedicated a long time to Charlotte softball and left new head coach Ashley Chastain with a lot of work to do order to achieve success in the future.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity, I’m extremely humbled and excited to be and to take Charlotte softball to the next level and contend for Conference USA Championships and get the program to posteason in the NCAA,” said Chastain.

Chastain played softball at South Carolina, is from Palmetto, GA and finished 11th Photo courtesy of Charlotte 49ers Athletics in relief appearances for the Gamecocks. Leading the team in starts, innings pitched, and ERA her junior year, Chastain had a great career. This new head coach came from Ole Miss as a pitching coach, along with Michigan State and College of Charleston. Chastain was named the 2019 Softball America Pitching Coach of the Year and while she is another new coach that is young, she’s also experienced and has the potential to lead Charlotte softball to great success.

Chastain is joined by assistant coaches Anthony Aresco and Taylor Wike.

Aresco joins Chastain’s staff after spending a year alongside her as a graduate student manager, following an undergraduate career as a student manager at the University of Oregon.

Wike, originally from Hiddenite, North Carolina, comes from a year on the coaching staff at the University of South Carolina and a softball career as an infielder at Chapel Hill.

Women’s basketball Head Coach Cara Consuegra hired former NC State Associate Head Coach, Nikki West, as her assistant.

West has been a part of eight NCAA tournament teams, including UT Chatanooga and USC Upstate. She helped lead the Wolfpack to three NCAA Tournaments, adding an overall record of 112-52. West has served in many coaching roles, including Recruiting Coordinator and Academic Coordinator.

“Her reputation as a recruiter and developer of post players is top notch but most importantly, Nikki is a developer of young women,” said Consuegra.

“She will join us in our mission to build young ladies through our core values of H.E.A.R.T. We look forward to the great impact her wisdom, leadership and character will have on our program and the Charlotte 49ers community.”

Photo courtesy of Charlotte 49ers Athletics Formerly Nikki Blassingame, she was an All-ACC Player during her playing years at Clemson. She helped lead the Tigers to four NCAA Tournament appearances and played in 126 games. Receiving her new last name in 2011, West, her husband is now the Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the Charlotte football team.

Consuegra and West are joined by other assistant coaches Nicole Woods and Tanisha Wright and Director of Operations Jena Jessup.

With all the coaching changes within Charlotte Athletics, Hill and company expect some turn arounds in 2019-2020 seasons for several programs. Hill has hope that each new coach can bring endless knowledge of their sport and passion for their job. Charlotte aims to only go up from here in their contending for Conference USA Championships each year.

WELCOME BACK 2019

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WELCOME BACK: First Week Events

by Max Young Assistant Copy Editor

As many new and returning Niners flock to the Queen City, many campus organizations have planned several events to reunite the Niner Nation. The first few weeks are also home to the week of welcome, "Gold Rush."

Another important event is the Student Org Showcase. Campus organizations recruit and inform students about their purpose and opportunities for campus involvement at UNC Charlotte.

CAB is bringing back the "Wild'n Out Comedy Show" to UNC Charlotte. The show will feature comedians B-Daht, Nate Jackson and RIP Michaels. The show will be held on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:00 p.m. in the Popp Martin Student Union.

Gold Rush also aspires to teach Niners about UNC Charlotte traditions. Gold Rush promotes these traditions by providing the "49 things to do before you graduate." Designed to open students up to campus opportunities, this extensive list encourages students to join organizations, attend career fairs or simply playing the piano in the union art gallery.

The University Career Center will be hosting a Plaza Party on the recently finished Belk Plaza. Students can enjoy games, prizes and food! Allstate will be sponsoring the event.

Students will be given the opportunity to talk to several employers such as Allstate, Honeywell, Booster, ALKU, Uptown Cheapskate and many more about potential job opportunities.

The Gold Rush team aims to "encompass UNC Charlotte history and creates a new tradition that is symbolic of students returning to campus to discover the riches and stake their claim."

UNC Charlotte departments and student organizations host Gold Rush events and will take place from Aug. 16, 2019, to Aug. 25, 2019.

For example, on Aug. 17 in Halton Arena, Fan Day gives students to chance to meet and get autographs from the 2019 Charlotte football and both men's and women's soccer teams.

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For more information about on-campus events, be sure to visit: campusevents.uncc.edu

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WELCOME BACK 2019

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2019 FALL MOVIE RELEASES

by Olivia Lawless Lifestyle Editor

IT: Chapter Two

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

Buckle up as you approach the Fall because the classic clown horror is back again to start off this Fall’s movie releases. “IT: Chapter Two” releases Sept. 6, continuing the story of an ancient and shape-shifting evil. “IT,” modeled after Stephen King’s thrilling monster novel, was released during Fall 2017 and began the story of seven outcasts in the town of Derry, Maine.

In its chilling sequel, kids-turnedadults are summoned back to Derry as Pennywise the clown rises again.

Later in the Fall, on Nov. 8, comes another movie based off of a Stephen King novel: “Doctor Sleep,” a sequel to the well-known story of “The Shining.”

The GoldfIn ch

The Joker Whether or not you’re a fan of Batman or comic books, you may be interested in the origin story of this famous villain. Todd Phillips diverges from comedies like the “Hangover” trilogy to direct a mix of horror and thriller that releases Oct. 4. In “The Joker,” Joaquin Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck, a failing comedian who wanders the streets of Gotham during his descent into madness and eventually becomes the mastermind known as The Joker.

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

MalefIcent: MiStreSS of Evil

A coming-of-age movie about art and tragedy follows the heels of horror.

“The Goldfinch,” which is based on a Donna Tartt novel, is about a young boy who survives a tragic event that took his mother. The story follows him through loss, love and rediscovery. Through it all, he holds onto the one connection he has to his mother: a painting of a small bird. This lengthy drama releases on Sept. 13 and suggests an emotionally-charged but hopeful tale.

As Halloween draws closer, the Disney villain Maleficent reappears in this sequel to its original. Maleficent is the evil witch who poisons princess Aurora in the animated Disney classic “Sleeping Beauty.” Angelina Jolie stars in “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil,” which continues to explore Maleficent’s identity and relationship with Princess Aurora from a different perspective. It is scheduled to be released on Oct. 18.

Photo courtesy of Warner Bros.

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Photo courtesy of Disney

CatS Frozen II This sequel to the familiar and widely-popular “Frozen” releases on Nov. 22, nearly six years after its original’s debut. The trailer tells us that Elsa, Anna, and the rest of their friends travel far from their kingdom to seek the origin of Elsa’s ice powers. It shows snippets of adventure and hints at a more dire reason for the journey.

Beyond that, fans are left in the dark to wonder how Elsa’s powers play a role in the fate of her kingdom. In more familiar animation, Photo courtesy of Disney

Photo courtesy of Universal Studios

Tom Hopper, director of the adapted “Les Misérables,” returns with “Cats,” a movie based on the famous original musical. The trailer draws attention with a mesh of cat and human features and a cast of familiar names like James Cordon, Rebel Wilson and Taylor Swift. The story is about a tribe of cats debating about which one of their lucky members will get to ascend to the Heaviside Layer. The Cats movie releases on Dec. 20 and is preceded by a variety of baffled and intrigued reactions towards the hyper-realistic cat features and vague plot. One tweet by Louis Peitzmen reads, “Please stop saying the plot of Cats is confusing. The plot of cats is that they’re cats and they introduce themselves until one of them gets permission to die.”

Star WarS: The RiSe of Skywalker

The AddamS Family “The Addams Family” releases Oct. 11. This animated adaptation of the popular Halloween movie tells of a family more strange than any other family you’ve met.

Photo courtesy of MGM Pictures

2019’s movie releases are wrapped up with Star Wars Episode IX, the highly anticipated ending of the Skywalker Saga that comes out on Dec. 20.

The “Star Wars” sequel trilogy began with “The Force Awakens” (2015) and continued with “The Last Jedi” (2017). “The Last Jedi” followed Rey’s Jedi training and the discord within the Resistance. Rey, Finn and Poe will embark on a final battle against their enemies. The classic conflict between Jedi and Sith comes to a head as the last bits of the Resistance gather to face the First Order in an epic finale.

WELCOME BACK 2019

Photo courtesy of LucasFilm LTD

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Hired an d Retired A look into UNC Charlotte’s most recent changes in leadership

by Nikolai Mather Opinion Editor

After closing out a particularly difficult year, UNC Charlotte’s leadership has gone through some major adjustments. The end of the 2018-2019 school year has brought a rash of new hires and retirements over the summer. Here is a brief rundown of some notable changes.

First, the most noteworthy: at the end of July 2019, Chancellor Philip Dubois announced his imminent retirement. The news came exactly 3 months after the April 30 shooting, which Chancellor Dubois called “the worst day in the history of UNC Charlotte.” In a press release, Chancellor Dubois recounted his 20-year-long tenure at UNC Charlotte. He served as provost for five and a half years, then became the chancellor upon James Woodward’s retirement. When he retires on June 30th, 2020, he will have served as chancellor for fifteen years.

In the meantime, the UNC Charlotte Board of Trustees, the UNC Board of Governors, and the UNC Interim President William Roper will be conducting a national search for his successor.

The UNC Board of Governors recently appointed three new members to the UNC Charlotte Board of Trustees: Christine Katziff, Carlos Sanchez, and alumnus David Mildenberg were all sworn in over the summer.

Each new trustee has a background in business: Katziff works for Bank of America, Sanchez works for AT&T, and Mildenberg is the current editor of Business North Carolina magazine. Three other trustees -- Sharon Decker, Fred Klein, and alumna Susan DeVore -- were reappointed to the Board as well.

As of Aug. 19, 2019, Colleen Penhall will be the new associate vice chancellor for University Communications and chief communications officer. Penhall’s 20-year career includes positions with Lowe’s Companies Inc., Bank of America, and Philip Morris USA. She will spearhead UNC Charlotte’s brand strategy and oversee public relations, news and information, issues management, and other communications tasks.

After an exhaustive search, the recently restructured Office of Identity, Equity, and Engagement hired

Chelsea Ortiz as the new Assistant Director for Sexual and Gender Diversity. Her first day was July 1, 2019.

A native of Ohio, Ortiz received both her bachelor’s in Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies and masters’ in Higher Education from Grand Valley State University in Michigan. She will be working primarily with queer, transgender, and nonbinary students at UNC Charlotte as well as fostering a more accepting campus environment.

Charlotte 49ers Athletics is also seeing some new faces. In June 2019, Tommy Langford joined Charlotte 49ers football as a nickelback coach. Langford is the former head coach of the Christ School Greenies in Arden, North Carolina. Prior to that, he worked at IMG Academy in Florida. In a press item on Inside UNC Charlotte, head football coach Will Healy praised Langford, calling him “a great fit for our staff.”

Nikki West has joined the women’s basketball team as an assistant coach. West, who is a former N.C. State associate coach started over the summer. In the five years she spent at N.C. State, she helped the Wolfpack to three NCAA tournaments, including the 2018 Sweet 16. Prior to that, she coached at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and at the University of South Carolina Upstate. She also played for Clemson’s women’s basketball team from 1996-1999 and assisted her team in winning a school record of 26 games (and four NCAA appearances, including the 1999 Sweet 16).

On July 1, Shayna Stahl began her new position as associate director of bands and director of athletic bands.

Stahl will be leading the Pride of Niner Nation Marching Band. Stahl is completing a Doctor of Musical Arts/Instrumental Conducting at the University of Washington, where she previously served as graduate assistant director of the Husky Marching Band, conductor of the UW Concert Band, assistant conductor for the UW Wind Ensemble, and director of the Husky Basketball Band.

Prior to that, she worked with the athletic band program at the State University of New York at Stony Brook for ten years.

WELCOME BACK 2019

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a poSt-Shootin g converSation

by Madison Dobrzenski Editor-in-Chief and Kennedy Hehr Assistant Sports Editor

with Chancellor Dubois

“We are all Niners.”

Chancellor Dubois sent out a message on July 25, 2019 with those words accompanying a list of campus safety measures, precautions and resources.

This was an effort to reassure students and staff of their safety and support since the shooting on April 30, 2019.

On the evening of April 30, Chief of Police Jeff Baker and other CMPD officers arrived on the scene about two minutes after the first call to dispatch.

In just a matter of minutes, the campus was on lockdown after a NinerAlert was issued saying, “Run, Hide, Fight.” Emergency Management and communication teams had been in established in case something like this were to happen - the 24/7 Police and Public Safety officials were prepared. The police were in the building within three minutes of the first call and five minutes of what was thought to be the time of the shooting.

While the Police and Public Safety officials were prepared and responded to the event on April 30 promptly, such an occurrence has sparked concern amongst some 49ers and their families. Maribel Rossil-Abascal, a mother of a current student at UNC Charlotte, reached out to the Niner Times over Facebook. She inquired about security on campus, the seeming rise of crime around UNC Charlotte, as well as asking about police presence.

Since the shooting, in addition to Chancellor Dubois’ message on July 25, Vice Chancellor Dr. Kevin Bailey addressed Niner Nation via email requesting feedback on campus safety.

Safety concerns were compiled by topic and addressed in an online airing titled “Conversation about Safety, Support, and Services” on Wed. Aug 7. Approximately 120 individuals participated.

With the start of the fall semester underway, Editor-in-Chief Madison Dobrzenski and Assistant Sports Editor Kennedy Hehr sat down with Chancellor Dubois, Chief Baker, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Christine Reed Davis, Special Assistant to the Chancellor for Constituent Relations Betty M. Doster, Director for Issues Management and External Media Relations Buffie Stephens, and Vice Chancellor Dr. Kevin Bailey to inquire about concerns like Rossil-Abascal’s.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

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Hehr: In response to your message, “We are all Niners,” what are some of the main changes being made around campus for the everyone’s safety?

Dubois: The most important to me was to make ends meet with Chief Baker to make sure we had a visible police presence on campus. I think you saw from the tragedy in Dayton, that while it [police presence] didn’t stop it, it certainly minimized the damage or the number of victims. One of the reasons we do our own internal and external review is to understand how we can better respond in the event of a future emergency.

Dobrzenski: So how do you believe that the changes that are listed in this message will make for an overall safer environment on campus. In

what particular ways?

Dubois: We were safe before, I think it’s a mistake to believe you can minimize risk to zero. As long as we’re going to be an open campus and an open society, we’ve just had two very good examples [Dayton, Ohio, and El Paso, Texas] of how vulnerable everyone is and that we have to be vigilant about potential dangers. I think we're a safe campus and we've identified things that we hope will make the return to campus in the fall reassuring to students.

Davis: If I can speak to that, I think what we’re trying to do is expand the opportunities for students to improve their knowledge of preparedness. So there are additional opportunities for them to participate in ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) training that community and -Doster: That’s the active shooter training?

Davis: Yes -- So we’re opening up more sessions and providing more opportunities for students to engage in that type of education. This is an addition that we're making to provide that overall access to that knowledge. Because what we have learned is that the active assailant training that students get in K-12 is different than what we need in our college campus. So I think that ALICE training helps us think differently, helps our students prepare for that differently.

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Niner Times editors sit down with Chancellor Dubois, Chief Baker and other University officials to talk about safety on campus and in the University area Photos by Chris Crews

Baker: I’d like to say too, that last year, we delivered 52 sessions of ALICE training, which far exceeded any of the UNC System campuses in outreach to their communities, which, if you think about it, that’s a lot of sessions.

Dubois: There are a couple things in the Leader Communication Guide that we referenced -- we purchased metal detectors for all major public events. That includes anything in the SAC involving large groups of people [commencement, convocation, and athletic events]. We’re also adding rangers to the Light Rail Station on campus. They're individuals who basically will be the eyes and the ears of the police department, particularly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Baker: And even though we have rangers, I still have [officers], if you're [an officer] not on an assignment, if you're [an officer] not out on a directed activity, we also direct our officers to go to the Light Rail and work on reports or do whatever in their downtime. That's where I'd like them to work.

don’t know for sure if it was caused by the shooting, but you must assume.

Dobrzenski: It was stated in the “We Are All Niners” email that the classroom in Kennedy will not be used, but will the building itself be used during the school year?

Dubois: We do not plan for any classes in the building. There are only two classrooms, one is next door to the shooting scene. The rest are administrative staff offices which will continue to be occupied. We are waiting for the remembrance committee to give us some insight on what to do, but I would be very surprised if we return those to classrooms.

Dobrzenski: What is your opinion on the violence at student housing complexes and in the University area?

Dubois: One of the things that is the most common misperception about University City is that it is one of the most dangerous areas in the city. In fact, it is one of the safest.

We are the second largest.

With an estimated population of almost 108,000, the land area covers nearly 47 miles.

By the statistics of 2017-18 per 1000, the violent crime rate in 2017 was 3.68 and 3.18 in 2018. The property crime rate in 2017 was 36.24 and 34.91 in 2018. The part one crime rate [most serious crimes] was 40.01 in 2017 and 38.09 in 2018. Some of the other divisions such as, Central and Metro, have nearly a quarter of the population and land size, while they more than triple the crime in every category.

Hehr: Have there been a number of withdrawals from UNC Charlotte because of the event on April 30?

Dubois: It’s hard to know.

Davis: Withdrawals of the currently enrolled student body will not show until the fall starts.

Dubois: Although, we lost about 160 students who had submitted their intent to register for the fall. In the immediate days following (April 30), they pulled those back. Now we

Dobrzenski: What do you recommend for those whose recovery may be taking longer than anticipated? Where can they be directed on or off campus besides CAPS? Davis: The biggest thing is to go and talk to someone. Compartmentalizing a situation like this only causes more damage. It doesn’t have to be a counselor, talking to anyone about it can help tremendously.

Dobrzenski: Do you believe that whoever becomes the new UNC Charlotte chancellor will keep these new safety precautions and action teams in place?

Dubois: I wouldn’t see why not. The safety of this university is my top priority and I hope the new chancellor would see that the same way.

Hehr: Did the shooting play a role in your decision to retire?

Dubois: I had plans to retire, I just didn’t know when. If anything, it made me stay longer. I wanted to be here for the year anniversary of the tragedy.

With all the improved safety precautions and plans in place, Chancellor Dubois believes UNC Charlotte is prepared for the upcoming school year and there are no signs that a tragedy like April 30 will happen again. Although, it is important to be prepared for everything. As Dubois enters his last year as the Charlotte Chancellor, his message to all stays the same,

“We are all Niners!”

WELCOME BACK 2019

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Fall TV

by Elizabeth McGuire Assistant Video Editor

It’s time to head back to class which means hours of lectures, homework and studying. The good news is that the start of the school season overlaps with the premieres of all your favorite shows and some new debuts as well. So, whether you are hanging out with friends or just taking some time away from that horrific research paper, here are some new and returning shows you can escape to this fall.

CW “Arrow”

Following the adventures of vigilante, Oliver Queen (Stephen Amell) aka “Green Arrow”, “Arrow” will be coming to an end this year after a ten episode eighth season. The show began the extended universe of spin offs (dubbed “The Arrowverse” by fans) which includes The Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, and newcomer Batwoman, all of which will be returning this fall. The shortened season implies that Arrow will end during the annual “Arrowverse” crossover event set to air in December. Season eight will premiere on Tuesday Oct. 15.

“Batwoman”

The newest show in CW’s superhero narrative, Batwoman introduces Kate Kane (Ruby Rose), cousin of Bruce Wayne.

In the well-known fictional city of Gotham, Kate takes up the responsibilities of her missing cousin both in business and in caped crusading. Batwoman will premiere on Sunday, Oct. 6.

“All American” Inspired by the life of NFL star Spencer Paysinger, this show portrays the struggles of a high school football

player from South L.A after he is recruited into a school in Beverly Hills. Spencer (Daniel Ezra) is forced to move from his family’s home to that of his coach in order to stay at his new school where he finds himself immersed in a very different world from the one he grew up in. An instant hit with fans, “All American” will return for a second season on Monday, Oct. 7.

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Photo of Stephen Amell as Green Arrow (Oliver Queen) in season 8 of ‘Arrow’ courtesy of The CW

CBS “Nancy Drew”

Adapting the classic YA detective novels, this show will once again follow famous teen sleuth, Nancy Drew, on a series of live action adventures. Casting Kennedy McMann as the title character, the show’s first season will premiere on Wednesday, Oct. 9.

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“Young Sheldon”

A prequel to the hit comedy series “The Big Bang Theory,” this show details the childhood of fan favorite character, Sheldon Cooper (Iain Armitage), as he enters high school at the age of nine. Jim Parsons, who played Cooper’s adult counterpart from 2007 to 2019, narrates the story of his character’s fight to be understood by his less intellectual family and friends as well as left alone by his bullies. Young Sheldon will return for season three on Thursday, Sept. 26.

Photo of Zoe Perry as Mary Cooper, Lance Barber as George Cooper and Lain Armitage as Sheldon Cooper on ‘Young Sheldon’ courtesy of The CBS

“Evil”

Starring Kristen Bouchard as a skeptical psychologist and Mike Colter as a priest in training, “Evil” will explore these character’s unlikely team to distinguish possession from insanity. The series premiere will air Thursday, Sept. 26.

“Bob

Abishola”

In this upcoming sitcom, Bob (Billy Gardell), a Detroit compression socks businessman, experiences a heart attack that lands him in the hospital. While in recovery, Bob falls for his cardiac nurse, Nigerian born Abishola (Folake Olowofoyeku), and begins trying to win her over. “Bob Abishola” will premiere Monday, Sept. 23.

“Carol’s Second Act”

This comedy will follow Carol (Patricia Heaton), a fifty year old divorcee embarking on a new stage of her life. After retiring from teaching, Carol seeks to become a doctor and rise above her much younger competitors.

“Carol’s Second Act” premieres Thursday, Sept. 26.

NBC “Bluff City Law”

After the death of her mother, lawyer Sydney Strait (Caitlin McGee) returns to her estranged father’s law firm.

Working together, the dysfunctional father daughter duo struggles to uphold their family’s stellar reputation in law.

Season one will premiere on Friday, Sept. 23.

“Sunnyside”

The new comedy will tell the story of Garrett Modi (Kal Penn), a failed New York City Councilman whose life has spiraled downward since a public intoxication charge ended his career. In a bizarre turn of events, Modi is hired by a diverse group of immigrant visionaries searching for a teacher to help them achieve the American dream. “Sunnyside” will debut Thursday, Sept. 26.

“This Is Us”

NBC’s award winning drama detailing the past, present and future of the Pearson family is not only returning for a fourth season, but has been renewed through season six.

Told in a non-linear format, “This Is Us” explores a wide variety of real world issues across several time periods through the eyes of a core group of protagonists. TV’s second most watched drama will return on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

“The Voice”

The popular singing competition will return for a seventeenth season on Monday, Sept. 23rd. John Legend, Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton will be returning as judges alongside Gwen Stefani, who is replacing Adam Levine.

WELCOME BACK 2019

Photo of Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton on set of ‘The Voice’ courtesy of The NBC

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FAll FAll FAll

2019 2019 2019

Gamin g Gamin Gamin g g

Roun dup Roun Roun dup dup

by Noah Howell Arts & Entertainment Editor

“Luigi’S ManSion 3” October 31 for Switch Luigi finally gets another chance in the spotlight with “Luigi’s Mansion 3.” If you never played the original on GameCube, you’re missing out on one of Nintendo’s most charming titles in the entire history of the company. While the first sequel on 3DS had its merits, it failed to capture the distinct aura in part due to its broken-up level design, rather than one big explorable location. “Luigi’s Mansion 3” looks to be returning to the original’s roots, while still bringing along new features like enhancements to the green plumber’s Poltergust vacuum-pack and a completely new form of Luigi known as Gooigi. This is simply one of my most anticipated titles of the year, if not the most.

“Death Stran din g” November 8 for PS4 After all the countless teasers, trailers and cast interviews; I still have absolutely no idea what this game actually is or how it will play - but I trust Sony and Hideo Kojima.

Photo courtesy of Nintendo

“The Legen d of Zelda: Lin k’S Awaken in g” September 20 for Switch A remake of Link’s debut title on a handheld, “The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening” brings much more than a fresh coat of paint to one of the “Zelda” series’ most bizarre spinoffs. A sequel to the beloved “A Link to the Past,” “Link’s Awakening” finds the green-tunic-wearing hero shipwrecked on a mysterious island. Since “Link’s Awakening,” the series has mainly been alternating between the 3D games on home consoles and the more classic top-down perspectives on handhelds (the major exception to this being “Four Swords Adventures”). Now that the Switch stands as both Nintendo’s home and portable console, the “Zelda” series now follows suit. While the price tag of $60 may seem a bit steep for a remake of a Game Boy game at first, I think the title’s gorgeous art style and more modernized gameplay makes it worthwhile for the die-hard “Zelda” fan.

“Call of Duty: Modern Warfare” October 25 for PS4, Xbox One, an d PC The “Call of Duty” series trucks on with the 16th entry in the franchise, this one with developer Infinity Ward doing a soft reboot of its much-beloved “Modern Warfare” series.

The original trilogy delivered a consistently strong campaign, multiplayer and spec-ops side mode, so it appears Infinity Ward is going back to formula after their lukewarm titles “Ghosts” and “Infinite Warfare” (solid campaigns but the multiplayer side of things left something to be desired in both). While I’m not fully sold myself, the return of one of gaming’s most iconic figures in Captain Price is an enticing draw on its own.

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Photo courtesy of Sony Interactive Entertainment

“Star WarS Jedi: Fallen Order” November 15 for PS4, Xbox One an d PC After some drama over EA’s strict-holding over the “Star Wars” license and apparent cancelation of games under it, Respawn saves the day with a fully focused single-player game in the “Star Wars” franchise. While combining two of my favorite things in video games and “Star Wars” is already a recipe for success, the footage shown so far looks to be a very solid title on its own. You play as a Jedi padawan on the run from the Empire post-Order 66, set in the time between “Revenge of the Sith” and “A New Hope.” The game’s combat looks to make great use of both the lightsaber and force abilities within it, while also setting up a strong narrative. The inclusion of connections to other pieces of “Star Wars” media like extremist Saw Gerrera (with Forest Whitaker reprising his role from both “Rogue One” and “ Star Wars Rebels”) and the inquisitors used to hunt down Jedi from “Rebels” as well, continues to prove to me what this new era of Lucasfilm has done so well.

Photo courtesy of The Pokemon Company

“Pokémon Sword & Shield” November 15 for Switch An all-new generation of “Pokémon” arrives on Nintendo Switch, bringing with it a new European-inspired continent. The game is set to include the best visuals to date for the series with it now being at home on the Switch. The games have come under some come controversy though after the reveal that not all pokémon would be making the jump to next-gen, simply due to the logistics of making new models for all 807 pokémon. While I think Game Freak’s position is pretty understandable, a good portion of the internet doesn’t seem to think so. That said, if my precious Treeko fails to be included in either “Sword” or “Shield,” I will be joining among the ranks of those wronged fans protesting online (but really, come on people).

“Doom Etern al” November 22 for PS4, Xbox One, Switch, Stadia, an d PC At first glance, “Doom” kind of looks like those stereotypical shooter games you see kids/ teens play in tv shows or movies. On the surface though, it is one of the greatest shooters ever created. The reboot done with “Doom” in 2016 was a triumphant return for the demon-destroying Doom Slayer (a.k.a. Doomguy). The free-flowing combat that strongly encourages players to face enemies head-on is simply excellent when given Doomguy’s full arsenal, but paired with the incredible heavy-metal soundtrack, it forms one of gaming’s best experiences ever created. Even with all the deformed, hideous and downright evil-looking demons in “Doom,” you are the nightmare rather than the other way around.

“Doom Eternal” looks to only meaningfully enhance this formula to keep things fresh, which I am all for.

Photo courtesy of EA Games

Photo courtesy of Bethesda Entertainment

WELCOME BACK 2019

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UNC CHARLOTTE Sen iorS run n in g for offIce

by Megan Bird News Editor

As students return to campus, sift through syllabi, buy textbooks, and shift back to academic life, UNC Charlotte seniors Gabe Cartagena and Cade Lee will be doing just that -- while also campaigning for local office.

Cartagena, a 21-year-old political science major and full-time bartender, is running for the District 4 seat of Charlotte City Council. Lee, a senior political science and international studies double major from Raleigh, is running for the District 3 seat of the Mecklenburg County Commissioners.

The incumbent for Cartagena’s seat has stepped down, so he now faces 5 Democrats and 1 Republican for representation of the nearly half-Black district.

Lee, however, will be running against an incumbent, a difficult challenger to defeat. Democrat George Dunlap has served six terms as a county commissioner and currently serves as the chairman.

Both students were inspired to run after the campus shooting on April 30, and both students have led activist groups for greater gun control. Cartagena

Photo courtesy of Cade Lee

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started Real Change Now and Lee started the UNC Charlotte chapter of March for Our Lives.

“The idea of Real Change Now was a response to a quote from Susan Harden, District 5 Mecklenburg County Commissioner, from the Rally for Remembrance. Susan said that in order for us to actually effect change, we have to get out and vote. I was mad at that statement. I sat there and I looked at five people whom I had voted for sit there and tell me that in order to solve my problems I needed to vote. My response was, well I did vote and I voted for you so what are you going to do about it?” said Cartagena about why he started the activist organization.

2019 Primary: Sept. 10 2019 Runoff: Oct. 8 2019 Election: Nov. 5 2020 Primary: March 3 2020 Election: Nov. 3 In a similar frustration with local elected officials, Lee said “It was mostly because after the shooting, the President of the [Charlotte] NAACP and I sent out emails to all local elected officials to discuss gun violence, but we didn’t even hear back from half… This year, [Charlotte is] expected to double the amount of homicides that occurred last year, and all but two so far have been committed with a firearm. It’s such a controversial topic that [elected officials are] afraid of how it’s going to affect their votes. We need progressive leaders that are not afraid to stand up for issues that are affecting our community.”

Now, the two say younger voices should be in office.

Cartagena’s major issues are affordable housing, transportation and jobs. Lee’s are political accountability, STUDENT NINER MEDIA

education, affordable housing and environmental policies. Both students are running as Democrats.

If elected, Cartagena will join the mayor and 10 other councilors (all of whom are up for reelection this fall) to set policy, approve the financing, and enact ordinances, resolutions and orders for the city of Charlotte.

If elected, Lee will serve on the nine-member Board of County Commissioners that acts as the governing body of Mecklenburg County. Six commissioners are elected by district and three commissioners serve at-large. The Board is in charge of the annual county budget, setting the property tax rate and establishing priorities on community needs.

Cartagena will first face a primary on Sept. 10, followed by a primary runoff on Oct. 8 and finally the general election for mayor and all 11 seats on November 5. Lee won’t appear on the ballot until the March 3 primary in 2020. If he wins that, he will move on to the general election on Nov. 3, 2020, coinciding with the U.S. presidential election.

Photo courtesy of Gabe Cartagena

Food options available at the dining halls. Photos by Pooja Pasupula

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SGA’S 49 Thin gS to do thiS year

by Tahlieah Sampson SGA Press Editor

Photo by Chris Crews

Want to make your experience at UNC Charlotte more exciting this upcoming academic year? Looking for something to do on a boring day? Don’t worry, the Student Government Association has some ideas! Take a look at our 49 things to do this year and experience for the first time! Below are a few random (and not so random) things to do around campus by yourself or with friends. Take a picture of yourself doing these 49 things with the hashtag #UNCC49ThingsToDo and tag us @UNCC_SGA! We can’t wait to see all of you show your school spirit as we select 49 random participants to receive some free SGA swag!

1. Eat at every dining location on campus 2. Attend a new athletic event 3. Have a picnic in the botanical gardens 4. Attend the homecoming concert 5. Play the piano in the Union 6. Tour the Motor Sports building 7. Climb the rock wall in SAC 8. Eat at Orbis Grill 9. Attend the Student Org Showcase 10. Travel to Appalachian State University or Clemson University for the football game 11. Meet someone new and share your favorite UNC Charlotte experience 12. Experience the echo in the Star Quad 13. Take a picture with Norm 14. Buy someone a gift in the newly renovated Barnes and Nobles Bookstore 15. Participate in a student race at the girls basketball game 16. Yell “GO NINERS” when you pass a campus tour 17. Win a T-shirt at an athletic game 18. Visit the new University Recreation Center when it opens this year 19. Run/walk on the Toby Creek Greenway 20. Walk around the art gallery in the Student Union 21. Attend an event in Mcknight Hall 22. Ride a Charlotte Wheels bike around campus

23. Attend a group fitness class 24. Relax on the hammocks outside of the library and the College of Health and Human Services 25. Watch a movie in the Student Union theater 26. Meet with an advisor at the University Career Center 27. Watch the football team’s away game in Norm’s Lounge 28. Tailgate a home football game 29. Make a wish and throw a penny in Norm’s pan 30. Take a picture with a statue on campus 31. Get involved in something new 32. Attend a career fair on campus 33. Go to a Campus Activities Board event 34. Take a swim in the Belk Gym pool 35. Swipe someone you don’t know into a dining hall 36. Apply for a job on Hire-A-Niner 37. Show school pride on Wear Green Wednesday 38. Have a photoshoot in Belk Plaza 39. Attend a step show or air band performance through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life 40. Vote in SGA elections in the Fall and Spring semesters 41. Take a cooking class on campus 42. Watch a performance in Robinson Hall 43. Attend UNC Charlotte’s Dance Marathon on April 4, 2020 44. Dance on the jumbo screen at a basketball game 45. See the view from the 10th floor of the Atkins Library 46. Attend a study abroad fair and learn more about abroad opportunities 47. Learn a dance from a different culture at the International Festival on Sept. 21, 2019 48. Ride the Light Rail to Uptown Charlotte 49. Join the Student Alumni Association -- once a Niner, always a Niner!

#UNCC49ThingsToDo @UNCC_SGA

For more information: sga.uncc.edu

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The Queen City’S Coffee The best places in the Charlotte to get your caffeine fix

by Nikolai Mather Opinion Editor

Ah, coffee. The tastiest of terrible lifestyle choices. This cherished beverage is an integral part of the UNC Charlotte diet -- not only because Monday/Wednesday/ Friday 8 a.m. classes are a thing now, but because our campus is situated near some of the best coffee shops in the state. Here’s a quick overview of the best cafés (and drinks) to try this semester.

Amélie’s: If you’ve spent five minutes in Charlotte, you’ve already heard about it. This rabbit hole of a café is a favorite of UNC Charlotte students: partly for its relatively inexpensive snacks, partly for its whimsical decor, and most of all, for its 24/7 schedule. Though you might have a paper due in thirty minutes, time seems to stop when you’re inside Amélie’s. Last June, the Charlotte Observer reported that the original Amélie’s location would move due to legal disputes with the building’s landlords. Official moving dates have not been revealed yet, but if you’re eager to get the full Charlotte experience, I’d suggest going to the OG Amélie’s before it’s too late. While you’re there, try the salted caramel brownie café mocha. It’s all the flavor of the café’s specialty dessert with enough caffeine to get you through that research paper.

Trade and Lore: Climb the steep set of stairs on the quiet side of North Davidson Street and enter a caffeinated hipster paradise. In addition to a state-of-the-art coffee bar, this shop offers long wooden tables, low cushioned window seats, and a beautiful gallery featuring local art. Though it can be busy on weekend afternoons, the ambience is perfect for doing homework, reading the newspaper, or just soaking in some good vibes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the pistachio and rose water latte with oat milk.

Smelly Cat Coffee: If Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives sought out hot beverages instead of the greasiest, cheesiest foods in America, this would be its first stop.

Like other Charlotte-based, Guy Fieri-approved spots, Smelly Cat is all about taste, craftsmanship, and reggae music. Its reusable straws, variety of nut milks, and particularly Instagrammable mural make it a quintessential NoDa hangout spot. I recommend the dirty chai latte. And like all perfect drinks, get it with crushed ice.

Central Coffee Company: Located next to White Rabbit, the oldest queer bookstore in the Carolinas, Central Coffee Company is a tranquil shop with subtle flavors. It’s the perfect place to sit down and read the newest issue of QNotes. Parking is nearly impossible, but the Central shorty special makes the journey on foot worthwhile. If the zucchini bread is in stock, grab a slice of that, too.

Coco and the Director: Love NoDa, but hate the parking? This sunny parlor off Trade Street is only two blocks from the Charlotte Transportation Center. Its particularly interesting seating arrangements (a couple tables, a couple chairs, and then an amphitheatre-style set of risers strewn with cushions and pillows) keep it cozy, but not crowded. This drink is so twee it’d make Wes Anderson’s teeth hurt, but the mocha with hazelnut syrup and coconut milk is to die for. Lounge around on some pillows in your multilevel coffee kingdom. You won’t regret it.

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For when thin gS get StreSSful: CAPS

by Madison Dobrzenski Editor-in-Chief

College can be a stressful and challenging time for anyone, and mental health is something we need to care for each and every day. For some people, the event of April 30 might still be something that negatively affects your mental health going into the 2019-2020 school year. During those times when classes are just too much, you feel alone in your feelings or you just think you could grow from seeing someone, the Christine F. Price Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is there for all students.

CAPS is located behind the Student Health Center on the corner of Cameron Boulevard and Mary Alexander Road.

From the view from Mary Alexander Road, it is quite hidden, so be sure to walk behind the Student Health Center to find it.

Counseling is intended to provide an opportunity for people to “improve decision making, develop coping skills, increase confidence, overcome blocks to personal effectiveness, and acquire greater self-awareness,” according to the CAPS website.

CAPS offers multiple kinds of counseling to best provide opportunities to the UNC Charlotte student body; this includes individual counseling, group counseling and relationship counseling. CAPS also hosts workshops to provide a place for students to develop new skills for handling issues like anxiety, depression and relationship disputes.

Individual counseling typically begins with an initial assessment, in which the counselor will then either make a next appointment for the student, refer them to a psychiatrist

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for medical evaluation or to other campus and community resources. If a student is to proceed to see their on-campus counselor, there are six visits per semester included in students’ tuition or 12 visits in a school year. The school year begins in May, so if a student has been seeing a counselor for a school year and wants to proceed during the summer, that is allowed, it is just part of their 12 visits during the “school” year. Sometimes, students need to be seen more frequently than this, in which case off-campus resources are recommended. However, it’s definitely beneficial to know that if you need to see a counselor this school year, you have 12 guaranteed visits.

Group counseling is done by offering general counsel to groups as well as focused ones. This allows groups of students to strive to understand their emotions better through talking with one another and supporting each other. Groups are announced on the CAPS website and membership for some groups is limited, so be sure to inquire about them with your counselor as soon as possible if you are interested.

Workshops are more structured than group counseling but ultimately have a similar goal. They allow students to develop new skills to deal with common issues like anxiety or depression.

CAPS even offers couples counseling for partners that want to better their relationship; both students are required to be enrolled at UNC Charlotte.

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As I said at the beginning, college can be stressful. Because of this, CAPS is often booking appointments very far in advance because they are in high demand. In order to make an appointment, you may call 704-687-0311 or stop by CAPS. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you feel as if you need to be seen immediately, whether you’re having a panic attack, delusions, or fear you’re going to hurt yourself or others, you may call CAPS during their office hours at 704-687-0311 to find out the best time to come in that day and get same-day counseling, or you may stop by. In-crisis counseling is mainly offered between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Students are advised to call first if they are able to hear options about the best time to come in.

For after-hours phone consultations, call CAPS at 704-687 to be connected to a counselor. CAPS utilizes ProtoCall which provides free after-hours support. ProtoCall counselors help you handle your current problem and how to proceed.

CAPS is an excellent resource that I have used for quite some time now, and I can honestly say it has changed my college experience for the better. Of course, some people need more than they are able to offer, but it’s a good place to start to get help for whatever you may need.

This school year, please don’t be ashamed to call CAPS. A lot of students put academics before their mental health and it eventually leads to burnout. Don’t let that happen to you. Be proactive and utilize this great resource on our campus.

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