The Student Printz: February 5, 2020

SERVING SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI SINCE 1927 • WWW.STUDENTPRINTZ.COM • FEBRUARY 5, 2020 | VOLUME 105 | ISSUE 16

‘TWO BITS’ CRAWFORD PG 4

SQUID AND THE WHALE PG 6

BASKETBALL BEATS CHARLOTTE PG 8

SGA plans to become first to revamp executive board

Nya Rai | Printz

ALYSSA BASS

EXECUTIVE EDITOR ays after the Student Government Association announced plans for reorganization on social media, SGA President Michael Matrick explained the reasons for the changes in the executive branch at an SGA Senate meeting Jan.30.

Currently, the SGA executive positions are president, vice president, attorney general, treasurer and election commissioner. If the bill for reorganization is passed, the executive branch will

SGA President Michael Matrick explained reorganization plans in a Senate meeting Jan.30.

resemble a vice president model with the positions being president, vice president of judicial affairs, senior vice president, vice president of communications, vice president of finance and administration and chief of staff, which will be considered an ex-officio member and continue to be appointed by the president.

“These are all titles that will help individuals post college,” Matrick said.

“If you’re applying for a job, you go to the resume, and you were the attorney general or the treasurer for organization, an employer might have an idea of what that is, but they’re not really gonna understand everything that you had to do. So if you’ve got titles that are already being used in the real life work sector, I

mean, hey, what more could you do with that, right?”

Although most of the changes can be summarized as title changes, there are increases in responsibilities for some positions. The biggest changes in the reorganization involve the vice president of judicial affairs, vice president of communications and vice president of finance and administration.

Currently, the attorney general, which would be known as the vice president of judicial affairs if the reorganization passes, hears both parking appeal cases and cases surrounding violations of the SGA constitution and codes. In the reorganization plan, the vice president of judicial affairs would also sit on the

Student Conduct Board.

The board is under the supervision of the Dean of Students Office. According to the Department of Housing and Residence Life, student hearing officers cannot be employed by the department or serve on SGA’s Judicial Board.

Matrick said it only makes sense for the judicial body of the SGA to assist the board. “I think it’s a responsibility of the student government to make sure that we sit in and hear the concerns of our students, and I think that should apply even when students don’t follow the rules sometimes.”

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NEWS FEBRUARY 5, 2020 MEET THE STAFF

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Executive Editor

Alyssa Bass alyssa.bass@usm.edu

Entertainment/Opinion Editor Jack McCallum john.mccallum@usm.edu

Feature/Lifestyle Editor Lillie Busch lillie.busch@usm.edu

Sports Editor

Makayla Puckett makayla.puckett@usm.edu

Multimedia Editor

Blair Ballou blair.ballou@usm.edu

Webmaster

Omer Arshad omer.arshad@usm.edu

Photo Editor

Brian Winters brian.s.winters@usm.edu

Design Editor

Emily Brinkman emily.brinkman@usm.edu

Both Dean of Students Sirena Cantrell and Associate Dean of Students Thomas Deus said they have not seen the reorganization proposal and could not offer a comment.

The vice president of finance and administration, which is currently known as treasurer, would also have more responsibility. Matrick said this position would initiate the phase out of SGA’s philanthropy commission, which has the main goal of assisting Southern Miss’ Foundation with raising scholarship money. Matrick said the financial and administrative branch would ideally have more control over what the money goes toward. He mentioned revamping the Fallen Eagle Memorial Service with an annual donation toward a memorial statue as an example.

Foundation administrators were unavailable to comment.

Lastly, the vice president of communications will serve as the chief communications officer for the entire

Graphic Designers

Brian Winters brian.s.winters@usm.edu Lillie Busch lillie.busch@usm.edu Kathleen Hetherington kathleen.hetherington@usm.edu Alexandria Moore alexandria.casey@usm.edu Marissa Haas marissa.haas@usm.edu

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chuck.cook@usm.edu

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The views represented in The Student Printz’s columns and editorials do not represent those of the faculty, staff or administration of The University of Southern Mississippi. We welcome letters to the editor representing similar and contrasting opinions. To be eligible for publication, all submission must include name, class distinction, major, phone number and email address. Submissions should be emailed to printzeditors@ gmail.com by 5 p.m. on the Friday before publication. Please limit them to 500 words or less. The Student Printz reserves the right to refuse publication or edit any material on the basis of clarity, space or journalistic ethics.

Opinions expressed in The Student Printz are those of the writer and not necessarily those of The Student Printz, its publication manager, USM, the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning or the USM Board of Student Publications.

News: Before Black History Month

Comic by Darius Harris | Printz

organization and will have a team working on public relations and marketing materials. This position would replace election commissioner, which oversees two election each year.

Under the new plan, the title would be changed to director of campus elections and serve in SGA Cabinet.

Senior political science major Mckenna Bryant served as the executive director of student initiatives until she resigned Jan. 27. She said continues to support the organization and believes the reorganization will help the student body understand SGA more.

“The roles and functions of the roles are virtually unchanged, but the title changes better align with their purpose and the structure of other SGAs that can be seen on other college campuses,” she said.

If SGA passes the reorganization bill, which should be coming to the Senate before the end of the semester according to Matrick, Southern Miss

would be the first university in Mississippi to adopt this model for SGA. Matrick said SGA presidents from three universities have contacted him about the reorganization.

“This just goes to show you that the work that we’re doing here could be instrumental in becoming the piece that other schools are looking at saying, “Hey, that University of Southern Mississippi SGA, they know what they’re doing. They’ve got it going on,’” he said. “Dr.Bennett says all the time that we want to be the premier institution in the state of Mississippi for higher learning, and so we always want to do that with whatever we do.

I think this is something he would be proud of.”

For more information about the reorganization, visit www.southernmisssga.org/sga-reorganization and follow Southern Miss SGA and Southern Miss Senate on social media for updates on informational sessions and the reorganization bill.

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Veterans returning to school face unique challenges ASHLYN LEVINS PRINTZ REPORTER

ith shifts in wars and changes to the GI Bill, veterans have the opportunity to return to school.

However, an increase in studentveteran enrollment may leave colleges and universities unprepared for the adaptations and support they will require. Many veterans struggle to transition into civilian life but face unique challenges when returning to school. Without support from college and university programs, graduation may seem like an impossible task for student-veterans.

At Southern Miss, veterans returning to school can find assistance at the Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families. The Center’s mission is to provide an education support program for military veterans, service members, dependents and survivors. Leadership members, such as Veteran Outreach Coordinator Michael McGee, work hard to support student-veterans through the different challenges that may arise.

“There are many challenges our student-veterans may face,” McGee said, “Some include age and experience differences, starting school after years away from school and making connections to others. Veterans create friendships differently. It is often hard for student-veterans to find these strong relationships.”

Without special support from programs like the Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families, student-veterans are more likely to fall behind. Steven Welch is the VetSuccess on-campus counselor and works diligently to inform studentveterans of the benefits and services available.

Ashlyn Levins | Printz

“Our student-veterans are learning to coexist with cultures, values, and norms different from those of the military, and they need assistance in finding new career paths,” Welch said. “My job consists of working with two programs: the Chapter 31 program, which is Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, and the Chapter 36 program, which is Career and Educational Counseling.”

The Chapter 31 program works with veterans who have service-connected disabilities and wish to return to work.

The program provides personalized counseling and support to guide studentveterans to their career path and achieve

their goals. Educational and career counseling are services provided under the Chapter 36 program. These services include Academic Coaching as well as Benefits Coaching.

“At the University of Southern Mississippi, we recognize the significant sacrifices of our student-veterans,” Welch said. “This is why we are dedicated to providing the support and guidance they need to excel in the classroom as well as in their life experience at the University of Southern Mississippi.”

Although the Center services studentveterans, current service members look to programs such as these to assist

a work-education balance. Military Science Instructor Master Sgt. Richard Smith completed higher education while being a full-time Army member. The biggest challenge Smith faced was time management. With responsibilities such as children, sports and his marriage, returning to school kept his hands busy.

“I have some veteran friends who are out of the Army and went back to school full time, and they do have some different struggles. One main struggle attending an actual school versus online is fitting in,” Smith said. “Most veterans are a little older than the average college student. This can create a disconnect due to age, experience, some people don’t like the military, and veterans like myself have kids older than college-age students. In short, veterans face some similar roadblocks that the average student faces, and they also battle things that only veterans face.”

The Center for Military Veterans, Service Members and Families and other similar programs work closely with student-veterans to achieve their academic and career goals. It also provides financial relief to those who wish to return to school. USM Military Scholarships as well as National Military Scholarships are offered and can be found on the Center’s web site. The USM Financial Aid office also provides federal aid programs, Pell Grants and student loans for eligible students who complete their FAFSA. The Center is available to anyone with questions regarding scholarships, employment, VA benefits and personal development. Questions can be emailed to Veteran Outreach Coordinator Michael McGee at M.A.McGee@usm. edu or through a direct call to the Center at 601-264-4629.

Local museum honors community trailblazer LILLIE BUSCH

FEATURE/LIFESTYLE EDITOR n Jan. 30, the African American Military History Museum kicked off Black History Month by introducing its new event series and honoring the late Iola Williams.

“February stands to be one of the most rewarding and culturally enriching months in Hattiesburg all year. One that fosters community in our diverse city, and it calls us to continue a positive trajectory in our community,” Mayor Toby Barker said during the ceremony.

Williams f irst introduced the kickoff events for Black History Month in 2010. The museum presented the 2020 series, titled “Shaping America: African American Women in the Armed Forces”, in honor of Williams. Williams died in early April 2019 at age 83.

Williams’ daughter Audrey Williams spoke about her mother during the ceremony.

“She loved her church. She loved her community, her history, her family and everyone was family to her,” she said.

A community trailblazer and political f igure, Williams’ inf luence stretched from Hattiesburg to San Jose, California. She was the f irst African American elected to the Franklin-McK inley School Board in San Jose, where she continued to serve on the San Jose City Council.

Upon returning to Hattiesburg in 1991, Williams served as director of recreation and community relations for the city.

Williams led the initiative to save the building from destruction and open the African American Military History Museum. The museum is dedicated to preserving and informing the public about African American contributions to the U.S. military, beginning with the Spanish War. Williams also served as the museum’s f irst executive director.

“Because of Iola’s hard work, dedication and vision, we are actually sitting in the largest artifact of the African American Military History Museum. This building itself is the artifact,” Richard Taylor, the executive director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission, said.

The museum is housed inside the only remaining USO built exclusively for African American soldiers stationed at Camp Shelby during World War II. The USO club f irst opened its doors in 1942.

“Iola saw how things would be before we even knew we could do it. It was a privilege of mine to work with her,” Taylor said. “Iola lit a spark that is becoming the Sixth Street Museum District.”

Williams’ community revitalization extended beyond the museum. She also initiated the restoration of the Historic Eureka School. When the school opened in 1921, it was one of the only two brick high schools for

Brian Winters | Printz

Guests enjoy the African American Military History Museum.

African American youth.

The event concluded with Iola Williams’ favorite song, “I Was Here,” performed by Halethe Jones, Miss East Sixth Street USO 2019, as well as a video presentation.

The African American Military

History Museum is located at 305 E 6th St. in Hattiesburg. Hours of operation are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.

Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

FEATURES FEBRUARY 5, 2020

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Two Bits reflects on his legacy as a Southern icon BLAIR BALLOU

MULTIMEDIA EDITOR f you were a football fan at Southern Miss in the 1970s, odds are you’ve run into Ray Crawford, also known as “Two Bits.” Ray “Two Bits” Crawford has been a legend among Southern Miss sports fans for decades. His iconic chant, “Two bits, four bits, six bits, a dollar, all for Southern Miss, stand up and holler” earned him the nickname as he would arrive at the stadium and get the crowd on their feet.

“I needed a way to get people involved.

The two bits cheer was about the only one I knew at the time, and like anything, the more we did it, the more the crowds got involved and the more it caught on,” Crawford said.

His outfit set him apart from any other fan. Two Bits could always be found wearing a hat covered in buttons and memorabilia from various games over the years, a vest covered with ticket stub and a bullhorn used to lead the crowds. Crawford, now 84 years old, ref lected on the meaning behind Two Bits and everything that the University of Southern Miss means to him.

“Life to me is a journey, and an important journey at that,” Crawford said. “I always had a great feeling about Southern Mississippi, and I’m a life member of the Alumni Association. ...

Most of my memorabilia I’ve given away, or it has been auctioned away by the Alumni Association to raise money for Southern.”

Crawford said that Southern Miss was the perfect college for him.

Crawford’s work desk holds an assortment of magazines and newspaper articles that he has been featured in over the past few decades. Memorabilia also sits on the desk like a football signed by the University of Southern Mississippi football team in 1976 and the Two Bits hat.

The straw hat, now dried, faded and brittle to the touch, is decorated in an assortment of buttons from past football

The straw hat is decorated in an assortment of buttons from past football games, pennies, stickers, slogans and local politicians.

Blair Ballou | Printz

games, pennies, stickers, slogans and local politicians. The hat is a testament to the legacy that Two Bits has created over the years.

“It’s been worn down through the weather through the rain and the heat.

As a matter of fact, the oldest ticket I have on here was when we played Hawaii in the 60s,” Crawford said.

Each item placed on Crawford’s hat holds a special meaning to him.

Crawford uses the Lincoln Head Penny as a motivational tool when he gives his “penny speech.”

“I gave my ‘penny speech’ to the football team at Southern,” Crawford said. “We went to play Auburn, and we weren’t supposed to win, but if you f lip over the penny, you’ll see ‘In God we trust.’ Trust in God is a trust in your

fellow man. That is what the country was founded on: liberty. You’re at liberty to choose if you fail or go forward if you get knocked down or get up.”

The main takeaway from Crawford’s ‘penny speeches’ is that one makes a difference.

“If you had 99 cents, you’d never have a dollar if you never went and got that other penny. An old steam engine would never gather enough steam if it were one degree off, you are the one that makes a difference in your life, one extra yard, tackle, play you can win the game,” Crawford said.

“I remember giving those pennies out and one young man upon returning from Vietnam had a hole drilled through his penny. Thinking of how much difference one makes helped him make it back.”

Crawford suffered a heart attack as he was recovering from stage four throat cancer. His battles in his age have pulled his efforts away from the football field and towards an avenue he did not expect.

“God pulled me from the stadium to the pulpit,” Crawford said. “Last 20 years, the Lord called me into the ministry. It’s a wonderful opportunity to look back in my life and see where I might have made a difference. I get 10 or 15 calls a week to get the cheer going today, but it’s a lot of work getting up those steps nowadays.”

For 50 years, Crawford handed out $2 bills in the football stands with the message that “If you never spend it, you’ll never go broke.” Today, Crawford has integrated his $2 bills into his ministry by saying, “Remember my sermon and remember that God is always with you.”

English major uses poetry to speak his truth KAYLYN JONES

PRINTZ REPORTER ntonio Norwood is a sophomore English major with a unique perspective in poetry. In his poetry, he conveys his life as a black, gay autistic individual. He chose writing, forging a different path from everyone else.

“I have been writing since I was thirteen. In middle school, I was a heavy daydreamer. I zoned out and wrote short stories while not paying attention in class,” Norwood said. “I started with writing short stories, but I felt I wasn’t getting anywhere with it. Then I transitioned to poetry and started with writing how I am feeling and personal experiences.”

Norwood labels himself as a freeform poet. Freeform is a style of poetry or writing that does not rely on structure or rhythm and works as a stream of consciousness. It is a style that is the most accessible because of its lack of restraints and a practice for individuals wanting to pour out their emotions and thoughts faster and a grounding activity for living in the present.

“Freeform gives me the creative freedom to be more transparent on

paper,” Norwood said.

His process for writing is simple. To get into the mindset to write he loves listening to Mary J. Blige.

“Her music is so therapeutic to me.

Whenever I have a bad day, I listen to her music to feel better and give me energy to make poetry,” Norwood said.

Other writers tend to rely on specific brands of materials, but he keeps his tools simple with any simple pen and paper used to release his emotions and memories onto the page.

He finds locations like the park and the beach inspiring to his creative process.

“The park for me is when I can look up at the clouds and daydream about what is dear to me. For the beach, I go up to the ocean and listen to the sound of waves crashing. It’s a sense of release for me as I hear the hypnotic sound of water,” Norwood said.

Poetry is a hard field to break into.

A successful poem relies on wordplay, rhythm or interesting structure.

According to Norwood, writing poetry is all a matter of action. He advises everyone to not be intimidated. If he or she is passionate enough about writing, they should take a chance and practice their craft.

“There are even people in the English department who don’t know what to do with their majors, but those who do want to get into English and writing, just go for

Kaylyn Jones | Printz

it. Don’t let anyone stop you,” he said.

True to his word, Norwood pushes the envelope and addresses modern concerns of young adults. In his work, he expresses his sentiments on many personal and serious topics like body positivity, racism, colorism, homophobia and mental health.

“I feel we have moved forward, but we still have a long way to go,” Norwood

said.

He speaks out on the importance of diverse representations of race, gender and sexual orientation.

“Representation especially matters to aspiring African Americans writers and filmmakers who want to get their names out there and get exposer. I want to see positive representation of African Americans in media,” Norwood said.

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Local artists explain benefits, hardships of careers MEGHAN FULLER PRINTZ REPORTER

rtists throughout the Pine Belt gather once a month to sell handcrafted items and artwork at the Hub City Maker’s Market in Town Square Park. While showcasing their skills, artists also have the chance to educate many about the importance of art in society.

While many assume that the term “starving artist” is an accurate statement, it’s not as common as they would think. Emily Stewart, the coordinator for the event, said being a starving artist is often a myth and is far from the truth.

The event was created four years ago in an effort to support local artists and showcase their talents while giving them the opportunity to share their work and make a prof it.

Stewart says the market is a popular outlet for those buying ceramics, jewelry, soap and wall art. While being a coordinator, Stewart also makes jewelry and has her own booth at the market as well.

“A common misconception I see is that it’s cheap to create art, and people don’t take it seriously and don’t realize that we live off of this and actually make a prof it,” Stewart said.

Stewart believes that with hard work and a true amount of effort, an acceptable prof it can be made. She thinks that creating art and being

Nya Rai | Printz

in charge of a personal business is benef icial mentally, especially when doing something so enjoyable as a career.

“Sometimes f inancially it can be a struggle, but I’ve seen it work for many. Not knowing your income can be diff icult, but it’s so much better mentally when doing something you actually enjoy,” Stewart said.

Hunter Bounds has been selling

his art since 2018 and enjoys selling his work at the Maker’s Market. He thinks that many customers believe art should be free, which is far from the case. Bounds is passionate about the creative process of art and the state of mind when producing his work.

“Ever since I started this, I’ve had a self-realization of who I am as a person and am able to portray that to

others so that they can then feed off of that positive energy,” Bounds said.

Bounds believes that the effort put into selling art will reap the benef its in the long run. He thinks that having enough patience throughout the process will allow many artists to be successful. If an artist is struggling with income, Bounds recommends that having another job in order to support an art-based lifestyle is benef icial as well.

“It depends on the skill level, the effort, energy and drive. Money doesn’t just come because you put ten hours into a drawing,” Bounds said.

Christian Gammill, a senior graphic design illustrator, has been selling his art regularly through tattoo commissions and local events.

He said he thinks those who don’t believe in art as a real career path do not realize the dedication it requires.

“Any craft requires a lot of dedication,” Gammill said. “There’s always more to it than what you see on the surface.”

Gammill believes that the toughest thing about being an artist is the money aspect. He also thinks that the art block is diff icult, especially when on a deadline. Many artists struggle with being stuck creative-wise, which makes it hard for them to produce work. Gammill says being an artist is just as rewarding as any other job.

“There are times of feast and times of famine,” Gammill said. “Certain communities pour a lot into the art community and some don’t. I’d rather be happy and struggling than miserable and af loat.”

Southern Miss students battle sleep deprivation KARA LOWE

PRINTZ REPORTER

ome people do not realize how benef icial sleep can be until they are deprived of it. As people grow older, the amount of stress in their lives develops, and some f ind it hard to f it sleep into their busy schedules.

Sophomore public relations major Vivienne Cookmeyer has had a lot on her plate in the two years she has attended Southern Miss. She has had a job on top of taking 16-19 hours at school and even being an Honors College student.

Cookmeyer said there is not a single night she goes to bed before midnight because of her studies. She has to wake up early the next morning for school or work. Cookmeyer said she f inds it hard to balance the two.

“I have anxieties just like any other person my age, and in my life, I have learned how to handle it, but I do still have numerous breakdowns every semester from stress and struggling to balance all of it,” Cookmeyer said. “I wish there were shorter breaks more often, so that I and other students could catch up on sleep and maintain good mental health.”

What is Southern Miss doing to help the issue? Of course, it is impossible to change everyone’s sleep patterns, but people being educated on the risks

Nya Rai | Printz

of poor sleeping patterns can help immensely.

Southern Miss counselor and suicide prevention coordinator, Amanda Kirtland, has had plenty of experience counseling students with poor sleep habits.

Kirtland said that although some students can recover from a night or two of poor sleep with little to no issues, others will experience major consequences that greatly affect mental health.

“It has been my experience that the majority of students I see have poor sleep quality. Some students report

issues getting enough hours of sleep at night, and others report trouble staying asleep,” Kirtland said. “Sleep directly impacts our functionality. If you’re getting less than adequate sleep, your mood may become altered, your anxiety will increase, your reaction times slow down, your brain processes information more slowly, and you can feel more agitated.”

Southern Miss sophomore and accounting major Mitchell Overby said he knows the importance of sleep, yet still seems to have trouble getting the right amount. Overby said he feels as though he cannot get everything done

in a day’s time, so he pulls an all-nighter to make up for the things he could not get to during the day.

“I’m usually miserable the next day if I pull an all-nighter. I’m more emotional, and I can’t focus in class. Then I try to catch up on my sleep during the next day, and that affects how much work I get done for that day,” Overby said.

“Missing sleep to get work done affects more negatively in the long run.”

Student Counseling Services is located in Bond Hall South on Ray Guy Way, and they welcome any student who needs help with mental health, studies, sleep or other problems.

ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 5, 2020

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Kesha revives party pop on ‘High Road’ JACK MCCALLUM

ENTERTAINMENT/OPINION EDITOR esha’s latest album “High Road” returns to party pop while maintaining the singersongwriter’s new, more earnest brand. “High Road” plays with dualism as Kesha creates heartfelt, endearing ballads as well as crass, silly party songs.

“High Road” notably takes notes from each of Kesha’s past albums, highlights the main points and melds them together. Where there are hints of her electronic-pop debut “Animal” on songs like “Birthday Suit,” there are also notes of the soft rock, activist-pop from “Rainbow” on songs like “Shadow.” “High Road” places Kesha in the best position she’s been in as there is something on this album to please her broad range of fans.

This album comes after the controversyplagued “Rainbow,” Kesha’s 2017 album that came in the wake of her sexual assault lawsuit.

Where Kesha’s calls for positivity, growth and activism sounded painful on “Rainbow,” these same messages now sound warm and welcoming on uplifting anthems like “Raising Hell.” Kesha might be getting sued by her exproducer, but there is still a profound sense of joy and pride across all the tracks of “High Road.”

“Tonight,” the album’s opener, is one of the best examples of how Kesha melds together her 2010 conversational, electronic-pop with the empowering, explosive pop-rock tracks she has made herself known for since 2017’s “Praying.”

Illustration by Alexandria Moore | Printz

Kesha brings back the $ in her name on the catchy and hip hop-tinged “Kinky.” While the production is solid and worthy of several backto-back listens, “Kinky” is disappointingly not very kinky. When compared to a track like the 2010 anthem “Sleazy,” “Kinky” sounds almost like a nursery rhyme. That is not to diss “Kinky” though, because “Kinky” is a

certified bop with definite replay value.

Kesha even explores cowboy, western pop on “My Own Dance” where she declares over a twangy pop beat that she will not perform for anyone but herself. After so many years of being treated poorly by different people in her life, it is no surprise at how inspiring it is to just hear Kesha declare herself as free

from the pack and unapologetically protesting “don’t circumcise my circumstance.” Kesha’s personal freedom and love for independence are what make songs like this and the album’s title track real standouts.

“High Road” also provides more low key, chill cuts that have an intimate vibe reminiscent of a singer-songwriter performing at a bar. This is especially present on the thumping, R&B-flavored “Honey” that features an earworm of a vocal sample in its chorus.

The slower songs on the album are some of the best ones, proving Kesha’s talent for emoting within her songwriting. “BFF” has Kesha collaborating with Wrabel on a lyrical journey of an everlasting, judgment-free friendship. In comparison, “Cowboy Blues” addresses nameless one-night stands.“Father Daughter Dance” deals with the mixed emotions of having an absentee father.

“High Road” has Kesha exploring a range of emotions and life issues that are both genuine and relatable.

There are only a few true clunkers on the album. “Little Bit of Love” is generic and forgettable, “Chasing Thunder” features some awkward lyricism and “Potato Song” sounds like it would play at the county circus. Truly, though, “High Road” is a cohesive album that has far more good than bad.

“High Road” is by far not the best album

by Kesha, but it is the most open and honest.

“High Road” feels like a new step for Kesha as she reclaims the $ in her name and the carefree pop jams that made her famous. A few songs too long, “High Road” lets Kesha fans look at her in a new light on this album full of well-crafted pop tunes.

The Squid and the Whale bring unique sound to Hattiesburg MOLLY SCHRAEDER PRINTZ REPORTER

ehind the main bar of the Thirsty Hippo, the stage room was full of Hattiesburg music lovers who gathered Feb. 1 to listen to The Squid and The Whale play their unique sounds.

“It’s pretty eclectic. I mean, every song we do is just so different, so it’s hard to pin down what it is. It’s very lyrically focused, but it’s got a little more edginess to it,” lyricist and singer of the band Sarah-Bryan Lewis said.

When Lewis began writing over 10 years ago, she had no idea that her words would become the lyrics to Hattiesburg band The Squid and the Whale. Her lyrics have found themselves a part of many different bands and projects, but The Squid and The Whale is the band that has reached the most audiences and gained the most followers.

The band’s website describes the formation of the band as “born out of a free-spirited woman, a charismatic bassist, a Puerto Rican maestro and a good ol’ boy who likes to build stuff.”

With this background in mind, the audience waited for The Squid and The Whale to perform. They were scheduled for 8 p.m., so naturally, Lewis introduced the band at 10:11 p.m. sharp.

Michael Sandoz | Printz

The Squid and the Whale performed at The Thirsty Hippo on Feb. 1.

The room was quiet as the band started its f irst song, “Wolves.”

Most of the audience probably wasn’t expecting this song to start with spoken word, but the audience remained silent as bassist David Meigs kicked off the set by speaking the lyrics over the crowd.

The band’s set certainly matched their description on their website:

“an intersection of art, music and philosophy that engages the senses.”

Meigs said that the music is inf luenced by all of them and each member brings something new and unique to the creative process. He said that he hopes this provides the audience with different ways to connect to the band’s music.

“I like to feel. I’m a very emotional

person. I can pretend like I’m not, but I am. And I want people to be transported from where they are to some memory, to some dream, to some expectation, and I think a lot of our new music is truly cinematic and takes people to a place emotionally that you’re not going to get from the day to day,” Meigs said.

The Squid and the Whale sounds straight off an indie f ilm’s soundtrack, reaching out to the hipster deep inside everyone. While this kind of eclectic music may be an acquired taste, there is no denying the talent of everyone on stage and the creativity that went into creating the band’s music.

The night continued with songs of vast variety and sound, keeping the audience on their toes and listening to the lyrics.

“I’ve always been of this mind. If someone really likes it, that’s amazing.

And if someone doesn’t, that’s totally ok,” Lewis said.

“I’ve had some people come up and tell me, ‘This song feels like it’s about this,’ and it’s not. But it’s not my place to tell them that it’s not, because if that’s what it is for them, that’s what makes it special” Lewis said.

To decide for yourself what you think of their music, visit Thesquidandthewhale.com, follow @thesquidandthewhaleband on Instagram or f ind them on Spotify.

OPINION FEBRUARY 5, 2020

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Kobe Bryant’s death highlights problem with media WILLIAM LOWERY PRINTZ REPORTER

he unexpected loss of Kobe Bryant on Jan. 26 was shocking, but what was more shocking was the media’s poor handling of the situation.

When a story breaks, all the news sites want to get the available information out as soon as they can even if it means not waiting to make sure the immediate facts of the event are correct.

The media used to take a wait and see approach when it came to breaking news stories, but now, it’s about being quick and instantaneous.

It’s expected that a site like TMZ would get some of the facts wrong, but when legit outlets were doing the same, it just created confusion. An article published by The Boston Globe highlighted the various inaccuracies put forth by news sources in the immediate announcement of Kobe’s death.

Another problem that can arise from celebrity deaths is conspiracy theories.

Bryant’s death led to fervor speculation amongst crackpots over what happened.

This cycle of false facts and lies interfering with the truth is a trend we think

would disappear since it’s the start of a new decade, but one can only wonder if the problem will get worse. Society thrives on gossip about famous individuals, living or dead. While such discussions used to be relegated to magazines at the supermarket checkout, it is now something we see in our day to day lives.

The internet and social media have changed people’s perception of news.

While many still search for honesty and accuracy, there are just as many who rely on speculation, lies and their own opinion, which they f luff out as supposed news content.

As memorials to Kobe Bryant continue on, there will be some who question whether he deserves such treatment, given his arrest in 2003, followed by an acquittal two years later. To me, whether a person is remembered more for the good than the bad depends on the severity of the stuff he or she did.

O.J. Simpson might be out of prison and on social media, but that won’t stop people from associating him as a criminal rather than a famous football player-turned-actor. Similarly, while Michael Jackson is still revered even long after his death, some still question whether or not the accusations slated against him were true. We like to hold celebrities on a pedestal, and if they

mess up, we either forgive and forget or never forget.

Regardless, when death happens, journalists need to do their job and explain how and why said individual passed away and steer clear of misinformation, gossip and similar vitriol.

Illustration by Lillie Busch | Printz

a e k h a i n t , t : d o o w y l l Ho women cannot be silenced Illustration by Kathleen Hetherington | Printz

MEGHAN FULLER PRINTZ REPORTER

he National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences is facing a lawsuit from Deborah Dugan, the previous CEO of the company. She claims to have been wrongfully fired after raiding allegations of sexual harassment and irregularities throughout Grammy

nominations.

Dugan brought up rape allegations first mentioned to her by a female artist, which ultimately led to her termination. Not only is this a way of hushing employees in order to save face, but it’s also a tactic seen more often than not in large companies.

The industry continues to try and silence women through threats, payoffs and replacements.

However, women are tired of being muff led due to lack of respect and misogyny in the industry.

The former CEO not only raised concerns for multiple female artists but claimed for herself to have been sexually harassed by Joel Katz, an entertainment lawyer. After the claims were sent to HR, Dugan was fired to retaliate against the claims and scare her with the loss of her job. However, this didn’t stop her from calling the company out and filing a lawsuit.

The Recording Academy attempted

to make excuses for Dugan’s termination, claiming that she was a bully and didn’t have the right attitude for the job. This really just shows the company’s lack of effort to stay near the truth. Every word from them is drips with false pretenses and reeks of last-minute justification.

Dugan correctly described the board as a “boy’s club,” and she has obviously learned how to fight from that side of the conference room. Her allegations are not only straightforward but also conf licting with the weak opposition of the Recording Academy. It’s getting repetitive seeing so many allegations from the entertainment world. One can assume what may happen in Hollywood, but everyone is now starting to realize that shutting women up just pisses them off.

In a career known to belittle women and tear them down based on disagreements, Dugan has rightly made an impact on women too afraid

to not only face their offender, but to do so in a work environment as well.

It’s shocking to see that HR, the safe haven for internal conf lict, was the one to betray the trust of Dugan after facing enough criticism and slander already. This seems all too familiar after the disbelief of Kesha and Lily Allen, among other artists in previous years.

While Dugan is not necessarily a well known celebrity, she is still making her mark throughout Hollywood by doing something many women are terrified to do themselves. While surrounded by a legal team, Dugan is just as outspoken outside the shadows as she would have been within them.

This is an encouraging moment for any woman facing abuse, especially in a work environment. Though her courage might not always be shared, this is an achievement for women being silenced by big name companies, especially those with so much respect.

SPORTS

February 5, 2020

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Kobe Bryant’s story is more than basketball CHARLIE LUTTRELL PRINTZ REPORTER

he recent tragedy of the helicopter crash that killed nine, including NBA legend, Kobe Bryant, and his daughter, shook the world. Not only did basketball fans and players mourn the loss of the icon, but people from all walks of life expressed their condolences. Bryant’s legacy will continue to live on through the way he changed the game of basketball as well as his status as a global icon.

Bryant’s passion and dedication to his craft made him stand out as an elite player from the time he entered the NBA. After being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets and traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1996 NBA draft, he became the youngest player to start at 18 years old.

By his second year in the league, he was named an All-Star, a title he earned 18 times in his 20year career.

Bryant soon became the league’s rising superstar. His explosive dunks and signature fade away enamored fans. His mentality as a fierce competitor earned him respect from veterans across the league. Alongside Shaquille O’Neal, Bryant won three straight NBA Finals and solidify his status as one of the best in the game.

Bryant continued to compete at an elite level for the rest of his career. He became the scoring champion for two straight years, averaging an incredible 35.4 points per game in the 20052006 season. That season, he scored 81 points

against the Toronto Raptors, which became one of the most memorable performances in NBA history. He went on to win two more championships and earn the MVP award in 2008. His dominance lasted until his very last game in 2016 when he scored 60 points in front of a sold out crowd in Staples Center.

Bryant’s career meant so much more than his 33,643 career points and multiple records.

He inspired a generation of kids to follow their dreams. He became a Los Angeles legend for 20 years and maintained his celebrity status even in retirement.

Bryant’s active role as a father to his four daughters earned him the respect of people around the world. He coached and mentored his 13-year old daughter, Gianna, who had professional basketball aspirations. Through his coaching involvement in his daughter’s team, he became a leading advocate for women’s sports.

The amount of respect around Bryant is reflective of the impact that he had beyond basketball. People paid homage by making tributes and memorials, ranging from a shrine outside the Staples Center to a mural on a court in the Philippines. Players like Jahlil Okafor and Quinn Cook changed their number in honor of Kobe and many others vowed to retire his numbers. Thousands of fathers shared pictures with their daughters online, tagged with #girldad, respecting Bryant’s pride in his role as a father of four daughters.

While the world continues to mourn the sudden loss of an icon, Bryant’s legacy will continue to live on through the many people he impacted, reminding the world that legends are forever.

Men’s basketball wins in overtime MAKAYLA PUCKETT SPORTS EDITOR

ith three seconds left in regulation, Drew Edward’s three pointer tied the Charlotte 49ers with the Southern Miss Golden Eagles sending the teams into overtime.

“Big win for our program,” Coach Jay Ladner said. “I feel like we had to win the game twice.”

In the first half, Southern Miss held the lead until Malik Martin’s jumper tied the score with less than two minutes left before half time. LaDavius Draine, responsible for 12 points and five rebounds in the first half, briefly gave Southern Miss the advantage with a jumper 30 seconds later. The half concluded with a score of 29-29 after a last second jumper by Jordan Shepherd.

Charlotte started the half with the lead; however, the Golden Eagles caught up with a jumper from Tyler Stevenson at the 13-minute mark. The 49ers continued to close the gap, ultimately tying the score for the fifth time.

“We didn’t do a good job executing at the end. We gave up a lot of open threes at the end of regulation,” Ladner said.

“That’s my responsibility, and I have to make sure we are better prepared for that situation, but the great thing is we got to get that experience today and still win.”

Southern Miss scored five times in the five-minute overtime period. Leonard Harper-Baker started off with a jumper followed by a free throw from Artur Konontsuk, a jumper and free-throw from Tyler Stevenson and a final layup from Draine.

The Golden Eagles clinched the win over Charlotte with a final score of 74-68.

“We talked about at the end of regulation that I know they were kind of deflated and thought, ‘Oh here we go again,’ but I said, ‘Hey guys, let’s go do it again. You have already out played them all game,’” Ladner said. “We did a much better job in overtime. We did a better job getting the ball in. We did a good job shooting free throws and obviously got some big shots.”

Stepping up for the Golden Eagles were Draine with 21 points and Harper-Baker with a career high 16 rebounds and a total of 10 assists.

“I just carried the shooting momentum from last game. I had a good second half, and it just carried over for me,” Draine said. “Yesterday in practice I was hitting a lot of shots, and it just carried over into the game today.”

With point guards Jay Malone and David McCoy ineligible, adjustments have been made to the Golden Eagles’ starting

Michael Sandoz | Printz

five. Konontsuk overcame his last performance of going 0-3 in field goal attempts against Old Dominion with 15 points and five rebounds against Charlotte.

“I think his worst game as a Southern Miss Golden Eagle was last game. He and I had a little man to man talk about that and he really responded,” Ladner said.

“Artur is the X factor. He goes from zero last game to 15 tonight, and I thought that was the difference in the game.”

Other factors off the court that impact-

Ladavius Draine prepares to shoot a basket.

ed the Golden Eagles were attendance and fan engagement. With 3,840 in the stands compared to 2,889 for the squad’s last game, the players can feel a difference.

“We definitely appreciate the fans coming out. It’s always appreciated,” Gabe Watson said. “I feel like they were big in our overtime win.”

The Golden Eagles will face Marshall on the road on Feb. 6 and Western Kentucky on Feb. 8 returning to Reed Green on Feb. 13 to host FAU.