April 27, 2020

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t h e i n de p e n de n t s t u de n t n e w s pa p e r of s y r a c u s e , n e w yor k |

N • Grieving from afar

As social distancing measures are implemented statewide to curb the spread of the coronavirus, funerals in Syracuse have taken on a distant form.

Page 3

O • Low standard

Liberal columnist Patrick McCarthy argues Democratic voters should reject Syracuse University alumnus Joe Biden as their presidential nominee.

Page 7

P • Making masks

dailyorange.com

Community members involved in The Syracuse Mask Project sew and deliver cloth masks to local hospitals and health centers that need them.

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S • Looking back

Fifty years after boycotting spring football practice, the Syracuse 8 believe they helped lay the groundwork for athlete activism for years to come.

Page 24

Diplomas and doubts

illustration by maggie sullivan contributing illustrator

As the coronavirus hurts the economy, SU seniors fear for post-grad job prospects

By Chris Hippensteel asst. news editor

I

n the midst of a historic public health crisis, Khenyan Wilcox, a senior public health major at Syracuse University, is struggling to find a job.

Wilcox planned to enter public health administration after graduating from SU in May. Since the coronavirus outbreak struck the United States, the health industry has directed its hiring efforts toward specialists equipped to address the virus, he said, leaving him hard-pressed to find employment.

“During a public health crisis, there’s a huge emphasis on addressing whatever the crisis is,” Wilcox said. “So, most health institutions, health clinics or health departments, anything like that — they’re hiring for the crisis at hand and not for other systems or other jobs.”

Wilcox is one of thousands of SU seniors entering a job market that the coronavirus pandemic has thrown into chaos. As businesses across the county implement hiring freezes, cut down expenses and reduce staff, soon-to-be college graduates find their careers, and their futures, increasingly in doubt.

States across the county have implemented strict social distancing measures and ordered the closure of nonessential businesses to curb the spread

see seniors page 4

coronavirus

Incoming freshmen unsure about 1st semester at SU

By Maggie Hicks asst. news editor

Morgan Perry planned to visit Syracuse University’s campus for the first time during her high school’s spring break.

Weeks before the planned visit, SU canceled on-campus classes and transitioned to virtual learning for the remainder of the semester due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Perry, who is from Evans, Geor-

gia, plans to attend SU in the fall as a first-year musical theater student. After the university moved classes online, she soon realized she’d have to make her college decision based solely on pictures and videos of the campus that she found online.

“Starting out this experience online has been really weird simply because when you get accepted to a college, you’re (supposed) to be able to go and visit, you’re going to be

We need to keep in mind from now on that I might not be able to come back Mariana Peréz

incoming nutritional studies major from puerto rico

able to see everything up close and personal,” Perry said.

Incoming freshmen told The Daily Orange that the pandemic has affected their college selection process. While they understand the need for health and safety precautions, they are also nervous about what their first semester at SU will look like.

SU has suspended campus visits, student-led tours and admissions programming through

at least May 1, instead hosting online programs and a virtual campus tour for admitted students. Faculty and current students have also held virtual information sessions for incoming freshmen admitted to their respective school or college.

While Shakira Santos knew she would attend SU if admitted, her family worried about paying her $500 enrollment deposit. see freshmen page 5

2 april 27, 2020

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inside P • Canceled shows Syracuse University has canceled several exhibits and showcases. Some students have adapted by displaying their work virtually.

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S • Finding parallels

Thank you to The Daily Orange Class of 2000 for sponsoring the Spring 2020 ducks

Fifty years after the Syracuse 8’s spring football boycott, #NotAgainSU occupied Crouse-Hinds Hall for 31 days.

Page 24

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Cases in the county County Executive Ryan McMahon delivers updates about COVID19 at daily press briefings.

See dailyorange.com

NEWS

Statewide response Gov. Andrew Cuomo discusses the state’s response to the pandemic at daily press conferences.

See dailyorange.com

Continued coverage Check out dailyorange.com for additional stories about the COVID-19 outbreak in Syracuse.

See dailyorange.com

dailyorange.com @dailyorange april 27, 2020 • PAG E 3

coronavirus

Essential workers adapt to COVID-19

By Michael Sessa asst. news editor

Quiet campus As finals week begins, few students can be seen on and near Syracuse University’s campus. The university on March 16 announced it would suspend on-campus classes and transition to online learning for the remainder of the semester due to the coronavirus pandemic.

University officials asked students to leave Syracuse by March 22, if possible. emma folts news editor

coronavirus

Funeral homes adjust arrangements

By Marnie Muñoz asst. copy editor

As the threat of transmitting the coronavirus transforms social gatherings, funerals in Syracuse have taken on a different, distant form.

Families seeking final arrangements for relatives who have died during this time may receive gloves and masks upon entering funeral homes. Other families unwilling or unable to meet in person simply call to make arrangements over the phone.

Community members face a new reality of separation from loved ones both living and deceased. The shift challenges

every part of the funeral industry, with its workers now placed on the frontlines of the city’s battle with the coronavirus, said John Forbes, a managing funeral director at Delaney Greabell Adydan Funeral Home.

“Usually when people come in we shake their hands, we offer a shoulder to cry on,” Forbes said.

“But we can’t do that anymore.”

Cities like Syracuse have come to a near standstill as people stay home to curb the virus’ spread, but work hasn’t stopped for essential workers in the funeral industry.

Funeral directors in Syracuse have continued to offer their services and provide comfort to fami-

lies of the deceased, regardless of whether their deaths were related to COVID-19.

“Death is happening all the time,” said Eric Gang, a funeral director and the CEO of Gang Memorial Chapel. “It’s just that this aspect is more of a focal point this time.”

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced an executive order March 20 that halted all funeral operations. The state relaxed its restrictions one day later to allow immediate family to attend services.

Charles Garland, a funeral director and manager of Garland Brothers Funeral Home, would

explain the state’s guidelines to grieving families multiple times, only to frustratedly find the recommendations had changed again days later, he said.

“You’re explaining one thing to the family then the next day it’s another change,” Garland said.

“There’s just all this uncertainty.

And fear.”

Some families opt for small, brief graveside services, standing six feet apart from one another in the cemetery. If desired, a religious speaker will also attend and say a few words. No one is allowed to touch the body, according to guidelines from the Centers for Disease see funerals page 5

student association

Hastings, Golden prioritize SA accountability

By Chris Hippensteel and Maggie Hicks the daily orange

Justine Hastings and Ryan Golden’s first priority as president and vice president of Syracuse University’s Student Association is to work on accountability and communication within the organization.

The pair was elected shortly after midnight on April 17 and will be sworn into their respective positions on Monday. They ran against two other pairs of candidates: Morgan Eaton and David Williams on one ballot and Sadia Ahmed and Yanan Wang on another.

“Communication, outreach, that’s on us,” Hastings said. “So that’s one of the biggest things that could be done.”

Hastings and Golden’s campaign centered on five platforms: support for marginalized communities, campus accessibility, financial accessibility, SA accountability and student voice.

They plan to immediately start working with SU administration and members of SA to reach these goals, they said.

The pair campaigned for including students’ preferred names on university identification cards.

Their goal is to ensure SU makes this change before the start of the fall semester, Golden said.

Sharing the minutes from all SA meetings with students via email is another priority of their administration, Hastings said.

The duo will also begin working to implement Callisto, a third-

party sexual assault reporting system, Golden said.

“Our first steps will be starting conversations surrounding issues,” Golden said. “We want to make sure we start the ball rolling early.”

Over the summer, Hastings and Golden plan to help address the concerns of students that the coronavirus pandemic has affected, they said.

The decision to resume oncampus classes in the fall will be based on guidance from local, state and federal health officials, Chancellor Kent Syverud said in a press release April 16.

“Now that we are in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, what’s going to have to take priority (is) what students need,” Hastings said.

Hastings and Golden plan to

have their cabinet filled by the first Assembly meeting of the fall semester. They will look for passion, experience and diversity in each of their cabinet members, they said.

“Because a lot of our platforms are going to be ambitious and take a lot of time to implement, passion is a big deal for me,” Hastings said.

Hastings, a member of #NotAgainSU, said she and Golden would also like to make members of the movement aware of SA’s influence and encourage them to take part in the organization. #NotAgainSU, a movement led

by Black students, has protested SU’s response to a series of over 32 racist, anti-Semitic and homophobic incidents that have occurred on or near campus since November. see sa page 4

Before the coronavirus pandemic, Syracuse University planned to give T-shirts to students and alumni as part of its 150th anniversary celebration. Instead, the university distributed the shirts to its essential workers with instructions for turning them into protective masks.

The plan is just one example of how SU and other employers in the Syracuse area are trying to protect their workers during the coronavirus crisis.

New York state Gov. Andrew Cuomo has issued an executive order that will keep all nonessential businesses closed until at least May 15. Essential businesses — including maintenance and utility services, health care operations and grocery stores — can remain open as long as they comply with public health guidance.

Essential workers and their union representatives told The Daily Orange that working amid the pandemic has caused anxiety and stress, but in many cases, employers have taken initiative to keep workers safe and deliver the support they need. “(SU has) been creative in creating limited schedules and providing training opportunities from home to keep folks gainfully employed and keeping their benefits intact,” said Doug McClure, a representative for Syracuse University Service Employees’ International Union Local200 United.

SEIU represents service, maintenance and library technicians at SU, which includes workers from Bird Library, Food Services and maintenance departments. The university’s leadership team and administrators have been “top notch,” McClure said.

While some essential employees fear what the future holds for them and their coworkers, they also hope the challenges that the outbreak has exposed — difficulty accessing child care, maintaining benefits and staying healthy — will lead to greater support for workers.

With kids home from school and new schedules at work, daily life has changed, said Craig Powers, union chair of SEIU Local 200. Powers’ wife is a registered nurse. The couple has two young children.

“The university allowed many of our members to adjust their schedules to accommodate their conflicts with child or elder care,” Powers said. “Most of my morning is spent in my newfound kindergarten teacher role and labor management calls from work.”

Powers is one of over 850 SEIU Local 200 employees adjusting to new hours, roles and responsibilities during the pandemic.

Some of the union’s members live see workers page 5

4 april 27, 2020

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from page 1

seniors

On the other hand, the recession could become more severe if a large number of businesses close during the outbreak, FloresLagunes said. The government could prevent such an outcome by helping businesses outlast the pandemic, either by investing in COVID-19 research and testing or by providing funds to businesses in danger of closing, Flores-Lagunes said.

Not all types of labor will become scarce during the COVID-19 pandemic, FloresLagunes said. Jobs that can continue to function remotely, or those that are not easily replaceable, may fare better than others, he said.

Alyson Weber’s job offer at General Mills has remained secure, she said. Weber, a supply chain management major in the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, has found her skillset to be more in demand as companies scramble to fix supply chains disrupted amid the outbreak, she said.

“My job offer hasn’t been rescinded. It’s still stable in terms of that, because of the stable nature of the industry right now,” Weber said.

“The only kind of uncertain thing is whether I’ll be working remotely.”

Tyler Smith, a human development and family science major in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, also managed to secure a job before the pandemic struck the U.S. She accepted a full-time teaching position in January at an elementary school in Denver.

Although her position is safe, Smith said she’s unsure what the start of her teaching career will look like.

“It’s a pretty big possibility that I will be starting my teaching career virtual,” Smith said. “Being a new teacher, it’s really important and crucial that you make those really impactful relationships with your students. I think it

a separate entity,” Hastings said.

Hastings wants to use her platform to #NotAgainSU has called for the resigna- hold the university accountable, not act as tions of several university officials, including an appendage to SU administration. She and Hastings and Golden bothThe support the move- Institute Syverud and the of Public Safety Golden are considering ways to presSummer is Department a series of workshop-style 3-creditdifferent courses ment’s demands.

Chief Bobby Maldonado. Hastings and Golden sure the administration if it does not take their designed to enable participants to manage disputes and differences “A lot of the core organizers are my friends, so have said they support the movement’s calls platforms seriously, she said. both professional and personal “As settings.

If Itaken for it’s always weird talkingcollaboratively about (#NotAgainSU) as infor Syverud’s resignation. of right now, know that Chancellor from page 3

sa

graduate credit, each course may be accepted for PARCC’s 12-credit graduate Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS ) in Conflict and Collaboration.

PARCC

COLLABORATIVE AND PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE: DEVELOPING COLLABORATIVE COMPETENCIES FOR MANAGERS

would be a lot more stressful for me.”

The pandemic has also made it difficult for Smith and Weber to shop for apartments because social distancing guidelines prevent them from touring the buildings in person, they said.

Both Smith and Weber said they feel fortunate to have found a job, especially since they know friends and roommates who are entering industries impacted by the outbreak.

Seniors reluctant to enter the job market during the pandemic should consider continuing their education, Flores-Lagunes said. Students who pursue higher degrees and expand their skillset during the economic downturn will be in a better position to find employment later on, he said.

“For people who are graduating a year from now, maybe even two years from now, this would be the right time to invest even more in their human capital, their education,” Flores-Lagunes said.

Schools across the county are providing incentives for undergraduate students to continue their education, Flores-Lagunes said. SU established the Forever Orange Scholarship on April 13 to cover half the tuition cost of any senior who remains at the university next fall to pursue a graduate education.

As for Wilcox, he’s hoping the pandemic will create lasting change in the health industry and will increase demand for aspiring public health administrators like himself. Those jobs, he believes, won’t come until the COVID19 outbreak is on its downslope.

For now, he’s waiting.

“I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone,” Wilcox said. “It’s kind of a weird place right now where I don’t have a job, and more than likely the job I think I’ll have doesn’t even exist yet.”

PARCC SUMMER INSTITUTE

of the virus. As a result, businesses –– particularly those in the service industry –– have had to reduce staff to keep their operations afloat.

The disruption to economic activity that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused bears many hallmarks of a recession, said Alfonso Flores-Lagunes, a professor of economics at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. A decrease in consumer spending has led to less demand for labor, triggering high unemployment, he said.

Industries that can’t function under social distancing guidelines will face the harshest fallout from the pandemic, Flores-Lagunes said. For students like Lindsay Eastwood, whose career depends on large crowds and human interaction, that means fewer postgraduation opportunities.

Eastwood, a hockey player and a television, radio and film graduate student, remained at SU for a fifth year to take advantage of her final season of NCAA eligibility.

After Eastwood graduates with her master’s degree in May, she plans to pursue a career in professional sports, either on the ice as an athlete or off it in broadcasting.

The shutdown of professional sports has put those plans on hold, as empty stadiums and postponed seasons bring about hiring freezes and lost opportunities, Eastwood said.

“I’m kind of at a standstill right now,” Eastwood said. “I probably won’t get a job or an internship until sports come back. So, that’s kind of my biggest thing right now, just waiting it out.”

An international student from Ottawa, Canada, Eastwood hopes to move to New York City for work after graduation. But her ability to return to the U.S. is contingent upon her finding a job, she said.

Eastwood’s student visa guarantees her one year to find work in the U.S. after graduating, she said. If she stays any longer, she’ll need an employer to sponsor her.

“If I can’t find a job in New York, then I’ll come back to Canada to try to find a job here,” Eastwood said. “I’ll make the most of any situation.”

Emilia Smart-Denson, a theater management major graduating in May, is also trying to break into an entertainment industry hit hard by the pandemic.

Smart-Denson had hoped to find an apprenticeship or fellowship program at a nonprofit theater after graduating. But with nonprofit theaters across the county canceling shows and laying off large portions of their staffs, those opportunities have largely dried up, she said.

“A lot of places I applied, or was thinking about applying, have canceled their programs,” Smart-Denson said. “Right now, I’m sort of just waiting to hear back from the places I did apply, and if those don’t come through, I’ll start looking for real jobs.”

While the COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted the economy and forced many businesses to lay off staff, the long-term consequences may not be as severe as past U.S. recessions, Flores-Lagunes said.

Unlike the last U.S. recession, which destroyed much of the country’s economic resources, the COVID-19 pandemic has left most pieces of the U.S. economy intact, FloresLagunes said. The labor market could recover relatively quickly if businesses are able to reopen after social distancing measures are lifted, he said.

“All the economic factors that help us produce goods and services are still out there, and we could use them,” Flores-Lagunes said.

“But we face kind of a situation in which, in the short run, the solution is basically not using those economic means.”

Syverud, he’s extremely stubborn and adamant about not wanting to resign,” Hastings said. “Ryan and I actually felt like we could be ambitious with our platforms because the university administration is at a place where they need to prove themselves.”

Instructor: Julia Carboni PST 400/PAI 732 Program for the Advancement of Research on Conflict and Collaboration NEGOTIATION: THEORY AND PRACTICE ANT 424/ANT 624 Monday, May 11 through Friday, May 15 (9 am-5 pm) Saturday, May 18 (9 am-1 pm)

Instructor: Robert Rubinstein

The Summer Institute is a series of workshop-style 3-credit courses enable participants PST to421/SOS manage MEDIATION:designed THEORY ANDto PRACTICE 621 disputes Instructor: Neil Katz and differences collaboratively in both professional and Tuesday, May 26 through Saturday, May 30 (8:30 am –5 pm) personal settings.

Sunday, May 17 (4 pm-9 pm) and Monday, May 18 through Friday, May 22 (9 am-5 pm)

ORGANIZING FOR POWER:BUILDING EFFECTIVE SOCIAL MOVEMENTS Instructors: John Burdick, Andy Mager, Jessica Maxwell

PST 400/SOS 600

Note: Courses will be held online for the summer session.

Monday, June 1 through Friday, June 5 (9 am-5 pm) and Saturday, June 6 (9 am-1 pm)

For more please visit the PARCC website Forinformation more information, please visit theatPARCC website. https://www.maxwell.syr.edu/parcc/education/Summer_Institute/ Current SU students register through MySlice.

Current SU students can registercan through MySlice.

Non-matriculated students should register through University College.

Non-matriculated students should register through University College.

Registration begins March 18

400 Eggers Hall 315.443.2367 email: parcc@maxwell.syr.edu

cjhippen@syr.edu

Registration begins March 18

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from page 1

freshmen Santos, who is from Syracuse and plans to major in music industry, decided to attend SU around the same time both of her parents lost their jobs due to the virus.

Although her parents were able to pay the deposit, Santos said it was the worst part of the enrollment process.

“I’m glad we did come up with money in the middle of all of this, (but) my parents still aren’t working right now, so that’s the difficult part,” she said.

Some students who live further from SU said they worry about how the distance from home will affect their college experience.

Giana DiTolla, from Irvine, California, plans to enroll undecided in the College of Arts and Sciences. She was unable to visit any of the schools for which she applied.

“It’s really nerve-wracking because one of the things my counselor told me is you really have to set foot on campus if you actually are a good fit there,” DiTolla said. “You get a whole different feeling if you’re actually there versus the tours that you watch.”

DiTolla ultimately decided to attend SU after researching the university on websites like College Confidential and watching online videos from current students. She also watched the university’s virtual tours.

Taking a plane to Syracuse in the fall if the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing is a concern for Mariana Peréz, an incoming nutrition studies major from Puerto Rico.

“We need to keep in mind from now on that I might not be able to come back,” Peréz said. “I will be moving across an ocean. It’ll be really, really hard.” from page 3

funerals Control and Prevention.

Some funeral homes are offering private, live-streamed services to accommodate families that wanted more people to attend. Other families have postponed services, choosing instead to cremate loved ones now and hold memorials later when social gathering restrictions are lifted.

Restrictions on social gatherings may disrupt grieving processes for families, who have lost the ability to say goodbye in-person to loved ones dying in hospitals now closed to visitors, Gang said. Waiting for the crisis to pass before holding services could further stifle healing, he said.

“By postponing it, they’re not grieving right away,” Gang said. “To stretch it out like that, it puts families — again, we don’t have a choice — but it puts families through a double trauma.”

Funeral homes are doing what they can to provide the best service possible, though some now operate with a smaller staff size to avoid putting older workers at risk, Gang said. None of the staff in Garland’s funeral home have tested positive for COVID-19.

“Right now we’re lucky. But of course that can change,” Garland said.

Joel Friedman comes into Birnbaum Funeral Service Inc. in the morning, where he stays on-call as a funeral director 24/7. When a call does arrive, Friedman brings a mask and from page 3

workers at home with elderly parents or young kids, Powers said.

From the beginning, the university has worked with the union to promote a safe working environment, Powers said. SU has provided paper masks for workers and even encouraged them to make their T-shirt masks while on the clock.

If employees are able to work from home, the university encourages them not to come in, Powers said.

Adapting to the new working conditions has been easier for some employees than others, McClure said. Employees working in SU facilities have adjusted to a reduced work schedule that involves a week of on-campus work followed by a week of mandatory training at home, he said.

For other employees, such as Food Services workers, there has been little to no work to do on campus after most cafes and dining centers closed.

Union officials have been working

Many incoming freshmen said they’re uncertain of whether they’ll begin their first year of college on campus.

SU intends to resume on-campus classes in the fall, but the decision will be based on guidance from local, state and federal health officials, Chancellor Kent Syverud said April 16. Administrators, faculty and staff are developing multiple scenarios for beginning the fall semester, he said.

Ryan Hodges, an incoming mechanical engineering major from Spencer, New York, is nervous about how well his courses would translate to online learning.

The virtual information sessions the College of Engineering and Computer Science hosted were just as helpful as they would’ve been if offered in-person, Hodges said. He’s concerned about being in a virtual academic setting, though.

Since Hope Fischer’s high school in Lebanon, Pennsylvania transitioned to online learning amid the pandemic, she’s been worried about the possibility of taking her first college courses online.

“Not knowing the people, not knowing the professor, will be kind of off for me,” said Fischer, who plans to study inclusive elementary and special education.

Students also said they’re nervous about adjusting socially if they can’t meet their future classmates in person.

While he has been connecting with other incoming freshmen through a Facebook group for the Class of 2024, Jeremy Shinder is still nervous about not being able to meet his classmates on campus, he said. Shinder, from Bergen County, New Jersey, intends to study film in the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

“Even the simplest things such as orientation or a club fair — I’ve heard from so many people, and I really do believe it — that you make your closest friends during your first two weeks freshman year,” Shinder said. “Facebook’s great, but there’s nothing like meeting up with people.”

SU’s fall classes are set to begin Aug. 31.

Despite uncertainty about their first year of

college, many incoming freshmen said the online admissions programs have been helpful. They are still excited to begin their four years at SU, they said.

“Even though it is a very stressful time, once all of this is over, we will have a fresh start, something new,” Pérez said. “I’m excited for college so I want to have that view.”

gloves to wear over his suit while he goes to pick up the body of the deceased.

Death care workers must wear disposable gloves and transport the body in a sealed covering, per the CDC’s guidelines. Not knowing whether it’s possible to get COVID-19 by touching a body is a point of concern for many funeral directors, Garland said.

Conscious of his own exposure, Friedman sits across the room at a different table with each family he meets. He doesn’t reuse any pens or materials the families come in contact with. After the families leave the funeral home, Friedman disinfects the building.

“You always have to have (risk) in the back of your mind,” said Friedman. “It makes you think twice about everything.”

Accessing personal protective equipment is a major concern for funeral directors, said Ellen McBrayer, a spokesperson for the National Funeral Directors Association. Some suppliers may consider death care workers to have less need for the supplies compared to health care workers, she said.

“To our industry and medical professionals, it would be just like asking a doctor to perform surgery without gloves on,” she said.

Funeral directors especially lack enough medical gowns, gloves, N-95 masks and cleaning supplies, McBrayer said. The U.S. is also experiencing a shortage of body bags, which the CDC requires for transporting people who have died from COVID-19.

Suppliers could take months to ship out

orders for protective equipment because of the shortages, Forbes said. Garland, who ordered more masks two months ago, doesn’t expect his shipment to arrive until late May or early June.

Kevin Mathewson, a funeral director and owner of Mathewson-Forani Funeral Home Inc, didn’t have any N-95 masks left in his supply by April 14, forcing him to borrow from another funeral director. As funeral directors’ associations continue to petition federal officials, communication with suppliers has been difficult, he said.

“We can’t get it anywhere,” he said. “When you ask the state, they say get it from the county. When you ask the county, they say get it from the state. So nobody really knows what to do and where to go at this point.”

Other funeral homes have yet to experience the shortage. Friedman and Gang still have enough backup supply to last for now, they said.

Officials have confirmed 263,460 cases in New York State, where more than 15,700 have died from the virus.

More densely populated metropolitan areas like New York City have become overwhelmed with deaths from COVID-19, and funeral homes have been stretched thin by the number of bodies still awaiting burial, Mathewson said.

To compensate for the unavailability of crematoriums, some funeral directors in other parts of the state have helped cremate bodies in their local crematoriums, Mathewson said.

He’s taken two calls from New York City from people asking for funeral services because they were deferred from funeral homes in their area, he said.

“I feel for the funeral directors,” he said.

“I feel more for the families, not being able to be helped.”

The anxiety surrounding COVID-19 mirrors the public’s stress when the HIV/AIDS epidemic took place in the 1980s, when relatively little was known about the virus at first, Garland and Mathewson recalled.

Despite the surrounding fear, many funeral homes, including Garland Brothers Funeral Home, cautiously continued their work during those times, Garland said. The present situation calls for the same action, he said.

“Right now, the more we find out about this, the more we can accept this new normal,” he said. And eventually it will end.”

A funeral director at Fergerson Funeral Home, Inc. since 1977, Pat Fergerson grew up hearing stories of relatives who survived the 1918 influenza pandemic, knowing that some of her own family members had passed away from the disease.

Gang’s grandfather also worked as a funeral director at the time of the 1918 pandemic, during which he experienced similar stresses, he said.

“They weathered the storm and they survived,” Fergerson said. “And that will happen again. We will survive.”

with the leadership teams from human resources, Food Services, library and facilities to make sure workers are being taken care of, McClure said.

“We typically negotiate the terms and conditions for working conditions,” McClure said. “This is out of everybody’s hands. It’s not in the employer’s hands. It’s not in the union’s hands. It’s not in the employees’ hands.”

Mark Spadafore, president of the Greater Syracuse Labor Council, has hosted Facebook live streams to answer questions essential workers may have about their workplace rights during the pandemic.

Workers from across the region participated in the first live stream, held April 22, he said.

The labor council will advocate to have COVID-19 recognized as an occupational disease because many essential workers are exposed to the virus, Spadafore said.

“A lot of people are coming out and saying these healthcare workers are heroes,” Spadafore said. “None of my members wanted to be a hero. They’re doing their job, and at this

time it’s really hard to do their job. I see them as heroes every day.”

Cuomo on April 20 proposed a 50% bonus for medical personnel, mass transit employees and other essential workers on the frontlines of the pandemic. The economy only shut down for people who have the luxury of staying at home, Cuomo said.

Jen Reid, who works for the Onondaga County Health Department’s Special Children Services, worries if employers will keep up with social distancing guidelines and other health protocols once the pandemic starts to subside.

Special Children Services provides evaluations, education and therapy for children up to age five who have a developmental delay or disability. The department does a considerable amount of fieldwork where employees are present in clients’ homes, Reid said.

“I don’t know if my employer, and a lot of the employers in the area, really grasp the safety issues going forward,” Reid said.

“Things are starting to plateau a little bit here, but most people have still never been

exposed to this virus.”

Easing safety protocols too early could lead to new cases of the virus, she said.

Reid also worries about the financial stability of her unit, she said. The county is beginning to create plans for the upcoming months, but the effects of the pandemic will be longlasting, she said.

“We’re already operating pretty close to the bone, and I think down the road from this, I can see them laying off people,” Reid said. “I can see pensions and wages being affected.”

The best way to address concerns about the pandemic is to speak openly about the challenges it presents workers, Spadafore said. Sharing stories brings about change, he said.

“A lot of times we do focus on the struggles in the labor movement,” Spadafore said.

“And I think that we have to understand what brings us together and the good things that can come out of this. Our strength is when we come together, and we need to do it with joy.”

illustration by jacy cola contributing illustrator

mehicks@syr.edu

ammunozc@syr.edu @munoz_marnie

msessa@syr.edu @MichaelSessa3

6 april 27, 2020

dailyorange.com

Talia Trackim

design editor fall 2017 - spring 2018 • senior design editor fall 2018 • digital design director spring 2019 • presentation director fall 2019 - spring 2020

When I think of The Daily Orange, I think of love. The immense care and dedication for the daily paper, for the rickety house that came down in January, for traditions and memories forged every night. I think about the kindest, most hard-working people who have given me a home these past three years and made my time at SU meaningful. I loved working here because I was able to work with my best friends every single night. This is my attempt to thank them: Lucy: You were an incredible PD because you cared so much about The D.O. and about helping us learn and grow. Thank you for still being the first person I go to for advice, for instantly texting back when I asked you questions every other day last semester and for always believing in me. I’m so glad that we’re close friends and am grateful for all of our coffee dates, design chats and shared Vampire Weekend obsession.

Your work at The Post is stunning, and it makes me so happy to watch your dreams come true.

Let’s get Jeni’s again soon.

Emma Comtois: Despite the fact that we never worked on the same Visuals or Digital staff, I’ve learned from you every day. Your drive, work ethic and desire to push boundaries for yourself and for The D.O. is something that I’ve always tried to emulate. Thank you for the chats in Food.com, design advice over brunch, reassuring texts from Copenhagen and for paving a path for design leadership in Digital.

Alexa D.: Your kindness, deep dedication to The D.O. and commitment to creating an inclusive and heartfelt learning environment shaped my view of what leadership should be. Thank you for always making sure I had something to eat at PUP food.

Alexa T.: Thank you for inviting me to lunch before you graduated and for encouraging me to use my voice. You helped me find my place here, and I miss our conversations during your nightly walks around the house.

Sara Swann: Home freshman year was in your living room, watching movies with Sam and Jordan. You gave me a place where I belonged, and I don’t know what I would have done without you that year. You’re the embodiment of love and coziness, and you’re the sweetest friend anyone could ask for. I’ve missed you so much since you graduated; I hope we can be together again soon.

Mara: I’ve learned so much from you and am so grateful to have had your guidance and mentorship this year. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule for phone calls and for all the thoughtful texts. Somehow you always sent them when I needed them most.

Tito: I’m so grateful that Palooza 2019 gave me one of the most valuable mentorships I’ve ever had. You’ve taught me so much, and I owe so much of my growth as a designer to your guidance.

Tomer: Despite never working in house together, you’re one of my favorite people.

Thank you for making time to become my friend and for always looking out for me.

Andy: I joined The D.O. because you made working here seem so much fun at open-house my freshman year. Thank you for dancing better, thinking bigger and laughing harder than anyone else. Parties aren’t the same without you.

Stacy: You were one of the first people who truly made me feel at home when I joined The D.O. My first semester was special because of people like you. Thank you for making sure I got home safe every night.

Moreo: You’ve always been such a dear friend to me. You champion visual communicators like no one else, and your inner light and golden heart make the world a better place.

Katie Czerwinski: Thank you for teaching me AfterEffects in your dorm room at 3 a.m.

You have the biggest heart, the best laugh and the most insane animation skills of anyone I know. I miss you.

Kateri: A design queen! I loved working with you so much freshman year. Thank you for always being so kind and helpful. You’re too humble for how incredibly talented you are.

Rachel Sandler: Thank you for becoming friends with me and making a lonely freshman feel loved and included; I wish we’d had more time together.

Schafer: You’re f*cking awesome, and working with you in Sports was always so fun. Now one more time: Gluten is wheat, rye and barley. Stop getting alarmed when you see me eating rice.

Kaci: We’ve come a long way since #thesameplan, and your constant creativity, innovation and desire to push the boundaries of digital journalism amazes me. Thank you for always being such a good friend. Let’s have a wine night soon.

Gabe: Joking around with you during production always managed to calm me down and put a smile on my face. Keep grinding; the world needs journalists like you.

India: Your ability to stay grounded in kindness served the News section so much. I can’t wait to read the book I know you’ll write someday.

Sandhya: Seeing you around campus genuinely fills me with so much joy because our conversations are always so meaningful and heartfelt. I’m so grateful that I know you.

Lydia: Your Pulp transformation showed me what it means to pour your heart into something, to never give up on it and to see the potential for what it can be. That mindset will take you so far. I’ll miss you next year.

Laura Angle: Your friendship and mentorship has meant the world to me. Thank you for rants in the Steele Center, for Kubal coffee dates and for teaching me so much at Pixels and Print this year. I can’t wait to see where the design world takes you.

Mackenzie: Working with you last spring was so much fun. You absolutely killed it as video editor, and your ability to pour your entire heart into everything you do is unreal. Let’s get brunch soon.

Sessa: Thank you for being so great to work with last semester. I still haven’t recovered from your scathing editorial boards.

Emma Folts: Watching you handle what’s been the most tumultuous news cycle in recent history with so much grit and grace was inspiring. I always knew you’d do amazing things here, and I can’t wait to watch you shine as ME. Diana R: You’re one of the funniest, wittiest and most creative people I’ve ever met. Thank you for being such a joy to work with and for showing the world that the Power of Pulp is incredible.

KJ: Getting to work with you on guides was one of my favorite parts of being PD. Thank you for always trusting me so much and for being the best work husband. One last time: Hey, can we talk?

Elizabeth: You’re one of the most talented and dedicated staffers I’ve ever seen. Thank you for laughing and smiling every night. I’m so lucky I had you on my staff.

Sarah Lee: Getting to know you was one of my favorite parts of spring 2020. Stick with The D.O., I know you’re going to do great things here.

Sarah Allam: Working with you every day this year was a dream come true! Thank you for all the last minute illos, for constant strokes of genius and for handling everything with grace and style. I can’t wait to see your work in The Met someday.

Susie: Your sweet and easy-going nature always made productions go so smoothly, and it was incredible to watch you grow so much last year. I’m so glad you still come to D.O. parties; they wouldn’t be the same without you.

Anna H: When you told me you were going to duck last year, you reminded me that what makes The D.O. so special is the people who fill it. I’ve held that conversation so close to me this year; it’s helped me stay grounded. Thank you for loving The D.O. for all the right reasons.

Katie G: You’re an exceptionally talented designer, and you’ve proven every day how committed you are to the craft. I know you’ll continue to be an example for the next generation of designers to come.

Shannon: One of my greatest joys of the year has been watching you fall in love with design.

You have a brilliant creative vision. I can’t wait to see all that you do here.

Katie M.: You don’t give yourself enough credit. You’re so sharp, creative and passionate, and I’m so excited to watch you take digital to new heights next semester.

Emily: From coming in nearly three nights a week to design or single-handedly photographing 50% of our paper, you have shown so much tenacity and drive that has helped you become an incredible designer and will serve you well as photo editor. You’re going to be amazing.

Nabeeha: I couldn’t be prouder of you. Taking on the role of PD as a first-semester sophomore is no easy task, but your artistic vision, warm heart and knack for doing what’s right will take you so far. I can’t wait to see your design style all over the paper next year; it’s going to be beautiful.

Molly: Whenever I feel stressed or overwhelmed, talking to you always calms me down. Thanks for being such a great friend; I can’t wait to live together next year!

Danny: I’m so glad that I found a close friend in you this semester. I’m amazed by how hard you grind, all while reminding me not to take anything too seriously. Cheers to all the kickbacks we’ll have next year when we’re not working at a newspaper anymore.

Kelsey: My Cancer sister, I’ve never met someone who *gets me* quite like you do. Our long talks in Pulp and over Twitter DMs about all of our shared experiences have meant so much to me. Here’s to hoping one day we’ll finally get our gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free PUP food.

Rori: You’ve been a constant source of friendship to me and so many others over the past three years. You love The D.O. so much and so selflessly, because you genuinely care about the people in it. That’s an institution in itself.

Maeve: My SEO queen, we’ve come a long way since our days sitting side by side, wrapped in blankets and trying to stay warm while running the Digital section last spring. Thank you for everything. You’ve taught me so much, and have given Digital a breath of life that will impact The D.O. for years to come. Never doubt yourself; you’re going to have an incredible future.

Aishwarya: You’re one of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. You champion the brightest ideas, encourage people to be the best versions of themselves and lead with the utmost grace and kindness that made you a stellar ME. Your friendship means so much to me, and I love following your art journey post-grad.

Kennedy: You were one of the first friends that I made in-house, and I’m so glad that our friendship has grown so much in the years since. Thank you for always asking me how I am, for making gluten-free brownies and for encouraging everyone to be their true, wacky, powerful selves.

Ali: Who knew when I met you I’d get a mentor and a bff all wrapped into one! I literally owe so much to you. You champion everyone that you meet and are the best cheerleader, which made you such a great PD and ME. I know we’ll be reunited someday, but in the meantime, I hope you enjoy the mountain air and sunshine, freshly baked cake and avocados and everything that makes your golden heart shine.

Jordan: Thank you for inviting me to hang out with you, Sara and Sam that one afternoon freshman year. You brought me into a family and gave me lifelong friendships, including ours. We’ve been through so much together and have been there for each other through all of our ups and downs over the past couple of years. Thank you for always having my back.

Bridget: My sweet design mum, I love you so much. Your endless dedication to your friends, your selfless pursuit of activism through your work and your effortlessly charming and cozy design style are things that I admire about you so much. I couldn’t be more grateful for our friendship. Thank you for inviting me over for tea, for giving me endless design advice and for always bringing all of our friends together for movie nights and dinners. You’re an amazing person.

Kevin: You’re my one true design partner-incrime. No matter what we’re doing, from running from class to The D.O., to collaborating on

multiple splash pages, to suddenly leading our classmates to produce a project in the midst of a pandemic, there’s nothing we can’t do together.

It’s been amazing to watch you grow and find your own personal style over the past couple of years. I’m so grateful to have you in my life.

Amy: We started working in-house together, so it feels right that we’re leaving together too.

I’m so lucky to have gotten to work with you and learn from you over the past three years. You’re amazing at everything you do, from design, to digital, to editorial, you put your heart and creativity into all your work. Never sell yourself short. Thank you for being the best roommate and such a dear friend, through it all.

Casey: My sweet bean, it seems like just yesterday we were freshmen designers. We grew up together, and I’m so happy that I’ve had you as a dear friend through absolutely everything. You have more passion for The D.O. than anyone else, and I know your ability to see its potential will serve The D.O. so well. Remember to breathe, to believe in yourself and to believe in your staff. You’re going to be amazing.

Corey: I’m pretty sure we’re soulmates who were meant to work together. You always say that you’ve learned from me, but it’s the opposite; you’ve taught me so much: that emotions are our superpower, that there’s a playlist for every moment and that love is the root of storytelling. I couldn’t have made it through this year without you. You have so much wisdom and compassion, and you see the beauty in everything. It shows through your work.

You’ve been an amazing photo editor, and I’m so, so proud of you. We have a lifelong sisterhood now; let’s hang out all the time next year.

Sam: Despite everything we’ve been through, alternating ridiculously difficult jobs at The D.O., we’ve come out the other end stronger and more connected than I ever thought two people could be. Thank you for everything.

For always believing in me when I start to doubt myself. For hours-long phone calls from Tampa to Minneapolis. For us finding our way back to each other. For showing me how to get out of my head and truly live. I don’t know what I would have done without you this year.

More than any newspaper office, you have been my home over these past few years, and Syracuse will not be the same without you.

We’ll be back together soon, ready to embark on whatever next adventure life has in store for us. I’m ready if you are.

Leffert: When I think about where we started forever ago and where we are now, I know that we’re meant to be friends for the rest of our lives. We both love this place so much and have grown up in it together; it’s only fitting we were ME and PD at the same time. Thank you for constantly cheering me on and believing in me like no one else, for being there for me through everything and for leading this place so well as ME and being a friend to everyone who’s worked here. Your friendship means everything to me and has defined so much of my college experience. I’m heartbroken that our time together at SU is over, but I know this isn’t really goodbye. Wherever we are, no matter how far apart, I know we’ll always be best friends and just a phone call away. I love you so much.

Haley: We both fully realized the institutional weight of this place when we were transitioning last year. It’s not an easy thing to carry, but it’s pushed you to lead The D.O. with purpose, conviction and unwavering kindness and selflessness. You’re one of the few people that truly understands and shares my deep love for The D.O. and why it means so much to me. I’m so happy that we’ve been able to share that and support each other throughout this year. You were an incredible EIC and made my time as PD so special, and I’m so glad that in working with you every night I gained a lifelong best friend. It’s going to be so strange next year without The Orange in our lives, but I know that we’re up for the challenge. I’m just glad we’ll have each other - always.

Mom, Dad, Andrew, Jadon & Grammy: Everything I am, I am because of you. Thank you for being so supportive, for putting up with me talking about nothing but The D.O. every time I come home for break, and for helping me find my place in the world. I love you.

O

OPINION

dailyorange.com @dailyorange april 27, 2020 • PAG E 7

liberal

editorial board

Biden isn't good enough for president The D.O. commends SU community support B ernie Sanders suspended his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination on April 8, making former Vice President Joe Biden and 1968 Syracuse University law school alumnus the presumptive nominee. Though Biden represents our university, I do not believe he represents its values.

His conduct does not represent me as a student of SU, and his political positions do not represent me as a progressive.

I am disappointed that the party has chosen Biden to win its nomination for the most important election in modern American history.

Biden is no stranger to scandal.

He has falsely claimed that he reversed his initial support for the Iraq War soon after voting in favor of it, though he continued to rhetorically support war throughout 2003 and 2004. Recently, on three separate occasions, Biden claimed that he was arrested on his trip to visit then-incarcerated Nelson Mandela — his campaign eventually admitted the claim was false. The Washington Post’s Neena Satija assembled a comprehensive timeline of Biden’s blatant misstatements and fallacious claims.

Biden’s penchant for misleading statements is not his only vice. In 1991, as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Biden sat idle while his Republican colleagues attacked Anita Hill and made a mockery of her allegations of sexual harassment against then-Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas.

Tara Reade, Biden’s former employee, recently accused Biden of sexually assaulting her while she worked for him in 1993. While the veracity of Reade’s claims against Biden has yet to be vetted, the fact that there’s an accusation shouldn’t be ignored.

Last year, before he had even announced his campaign, multiple women accused Biden of inappropriate touching. Biden’s campaign has denied the allegation, but his legacy of deceitful claims, conservative stances and dubious interactions with women have impeached his own credibility.

It is important to keep in

Letter to the Editor policy To have a letter printed in The D.O. and published on dailyorange.com, please follow the guidelines listed below: • Limit your letter to 400 words • Letters must be emailed to opinion@dailyorange.com News Editor Emma Folts Editorial Editor Nick Robertson Feature Editor Amy Nakamura Sports Editor Danny Emerman Presentation Director Talia Trackim Photo Editor Corey Henry Illustration Editor Sarah Allam Co-Copy Chief Keighley Gentle Co-Copy Chief Austin Lamb Digital Editor Casey Darnell Video Editor Casey Tissue Asst. News Editor Maggie Hicks Asst. News Editor Chris Hippensteel Asst. News Editor Michael Sessa Asst. Feature Editor Christopher Cicchiello Asst. Feature Editor Mandy Kraynak Asst. Sports Editor Mitchell Bannon Asst. Sports Editor Andrew Crane Asst. Photo Editor Elizabeth Billman

PATRICK MCCARTHY

GET UP, GET OUT

mind that Biden will be running against President Donald Trump, who has made over 16,000 false or misleading claims so far in his tenure as president. Trump has also been accused of callous, inappropriate behavior towards women. Twenty-five women have accused Trump of sexual misconduct. Compared to Trump, Biden looks like a saint.

Should that be the only measure by which we judge our nominee? Do accusations of sexual misconduct cease to matter because the other guy has more allegations? The answer is no. We should expect more out of the person that we are choosing to represent our values and vision for the future of the nation.

Margaret Susan Thompson, an associate professor of history and political science at SU, agreed that it is not enough to simply be better than Trump.

“He shouldn’t just try to clear the really low bar of ‘I’m not lying as much as Trump’ or ‘not sexually harassing as much as him.’” Thompson said. “That isn’t, I hope, the standard that we want a presidential candidate to live up to.”

New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand best personifies the moral complacency of centrist Democrats. Gillibrand infamously led the charge in 2018 to force then-Minnesota Sen. Al Franken to resign after he was accused of sexual harassment. Gillibrand said of the Franken scandal, “Given eight allegations, two since he was senator, and the eighth one being a congressional staffer, I couldn’t stay silent.”

The allegations against Franken, including unwanted touching and forcible kissing, are reprehensible and distasteful — and are almost identical to the allegations against Biden, with the exception that Biden has also been accused of sexual assault.

Yet on March 19, Gillibrand endorsed Biden, praising the former vice president as, “A champion for women and families.” Clearly • Please include your town of residence and any relevant affiliations • Topics should pertain to the Syracuse area • Letters should not include any personal information pertaining to other people unless it is relevant to the topic at hand, which will be decided at the

Asst. Photo Editor Sarah Lee Asst. Illustration Editor Cassie Cavallaro Asst. Illustration Editor Tanisha Steverson Design Editor Nabeeha Anwar Design Editor Katie Getman Design Editor Shannon Kirkpatrick Design Editor Katelyn Marcy Design Editor Emily Steinberger Asst. Copy Editor Sarah Alessandrini Asst. Copy Editor Sydney Bergan Asst. Copy Editor Marnie Muñoz Asst. Copy Editor Tim Nolan Asst. Copy Editor Gaurav Shetty Asst. Copy Editor Morgan Tucker Asst. Video Editor Rachel Kim Asst. Video Editor Camryn Werbinski Asst. Digital Editor Richard J Chang Asst. Digital Editor Roshan Fernandez Asst. Digital Editor Susan Zijp

Gillibrand’s commitment to “zero tolerance” toward allegations of sexual misconduct boils down to nothing but words.

Biden himself has condemned sexual misconduct, despite being an accused perpetrator. During the Brett Kavanaugh scandal of 2018, when the now-Supreme Court associate justice was nominated to the bench, Christine Blasey Ford accused him of sexual assault.

Biden told reporters at the time, “For a woman to come forward in the glaring light of focus, nationally, you’ve got to start off with the presumption that at least the essence of what she’s talking about is real.”

He shouldn’t just try to clear the really low bar of ‘I’m not lying as much as Trump’ Margaret Susan Thompson su professor

The Democrats’ refusal to acknowledge the allegations against Biden is bold-faced hypocrisy. Centrist Democrats can’t have it both ways. Either they are committed to listening to accusers, no matter how inconvenient, or they are committed to electing Biden. Either they condemn Trump’s lack of morality, or they accept the same kind of morality in their own candidate as a necessary evil.

The Democrats’ brilliant answer to an elderly allege rapist prone to misleading statements is another elderly alleged rapist prone to misleading statements.

How inspiring. I don’t have a single, solitary shred of faith in the former vice president. We can, and should, do better than Biden.

S

yracuse is no stranger to crises that have shaken the entire university community. In its 150 years, Syracuse University has united in the wake of tragedy and hardship, including the 1988 Pan Am Flight 103 bombing that killed 35 students and two world wars.

The university is now facing an unprecedented global health crisis — a critical moment for not only SU, but for schools around the world.

Coronavirus has nearly stopped the global economy in its tracks, forcing faculty, staff and students to stay home for the greater good.

Through this shared strife we’ve seen the SU community come together in remarkable ways after months of conflict on campus.

The Daily Orange Editorial Board commends the university for keeping the campus community informed and demonstrating genuine concern for faculty and students’ wellbeing. In these rapidly changing times, SU has inspired confidence that it will make informed decisions moving forward.

The Forever Orange scholarship, which awards half the cost of tuition for an SU graduate program to graduating seniors, is a more financially accessible alternative to entering the currently unstable job market.

The university also extended the pass/fail deadline for classes and provided refunds for housing and meal plans costs.

As students ourselves, we’ve seen how professors and peers have adapted to full course loads of online learning. Many faculty have gone

above-and-beyond to support their students beyond Zoom lectures, offering necessary accommodations and support. We appreciate their effort to provide a quality educational experience despite the limitations of a virtual classroom.

Despite these actions, the SU community still faces difficulties. Many students are now left without sources of income while also worrying about their health.

Students now have less access to mental health care. Students with disabilities have less access to university services. International students may be stuck under strict quarantines and regulations, negatively affecting their learning environment.

More challenges lie ahead as we look toward a fall semester still in limbo. It is crucial that SU maintains constant communication and continues to make an effort to ease the financial burden families are facing.

The Daily Orange, while independent from the university, is part of that vital communication. We will continue to document the lives of our community no matter what this year brings. Even if the SU community can’t be there for each other in person, staying connected will help us persist.

The Daily Orange Editorial Board serves as the voice of the organization and aims to contribute the perspectives of students to discussions that concern Syracuse University and the greater Syracuse community. The editorial board’s stances are determined by a majority of its members.

scribble

Patrick McCarthy is a senior creative writing and American history major. His column appears bi-weekly. He can be reached at pmcca100@syr.edu.

He can be followed on Twitter at @pmcopinion.

discretion of The D.O.’s editor-inchief and managing editor • Any links to third-party websites will also be published at the discretion of the editor-inchief and managing editor • All letters will be edited for style and grammar Thank you in advance for following these guidelines.

nabeeha anwar design editor

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Haley Robertson

Catherine Leffert

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MANAGING EDITOR

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8 april 27, 2020

Amy Nakamura

dailyorange.com

design editor fall 2017 - spring 2018 • senior design editor spring 2019 • digital editor fall 2019 • feature editor spring 2020 It’s hard to think about what my life will be like without The D.O. But it’s harder to say who I would be without it.

Lucy: Thank you so much for bringing me to this wonderful place. The best decision I’ve made in college is applying for The D.O. I’m so lucky I was able to learn from such a talented person like you.

The Alexas: Thank you for always being so encouraging to a shy and nervous freshman like myself. Even after freshman year, the sign on the 744 management door always reminded me of the powerful women that had stood behind it. Miss you both! – Pants Queen Rori: No party is complete without you there.

You always cast such a bright light on everyone around you. Thanks for always hanging out in Food.com with me (and introducing me to spicy chicken bowls lol).

Ali: Your bright attitude and warm personality made working those long nights so much easier. Thank you for always looking out for us and being such a supportive PD to all of the design team.

Lydia: No matter where you are, I always feel like you’re the coolest girl in the room. I know wherever you go, you’ll thrive.

Anna H: I’ll never forget our 2 p.m. trip to DJ’s. Or the pup food survey. Or any iconic move that you make. You’re a D.O. legend with or without Adobe Creative Cloud.

Corey: Even before you came into the house, we all knew how gifted you were. I’m so glad I was able to get to know the kind-hearted person behind the raw talent. You and Talia truly made the Visuals section a calm and nurturing place for your staff.

Billman: You’re a photography star and such a compassionate person. Thanks for always being ready when we needed you. P.S. I’m sorry for leaving Nabeeha stranded.

Emily: I have so much respect for someone that can do it all, and you’re exactly that person. Over these past semesters, I’ve really enjoyed seeing you grow in every role you take on. Your attention to detail is unmatched.

Karleigh: Your illustration skills constantly amazed me. I really don’t know how you would create such fun and beautiful graphics on tight deadlines. I really miss your witty jokes and positive attitude around The D.O. Eva: It was always a joy to work with you in Digital. Thanks for dealing with all of the craziness that was Kevin and myself. I’m so grateful to have had such an easy-going and talented person on our team. I know your skills are going to take you so far in life.

Sessa: I’ll never forget that fire Edit Board.

You have such a powerful way with words and a gift when it comes to storytelling.

Emma F: Hands down, you’re the most puttogether person I have ever met. I feel like everything you do, you do it effortlessly and flawlessly. It’s been an absolute pleasure to read the stories you write. You’re such a talented and kind person, and I’m so glad I’ve gotten to know you over these past few semesters.

Richard: Digital plays a vital role at this paper, and I’m so glad you’re the one who is taking it over.

Casey T: You always managed to create such beautiful and informative videos. I’m so happy we got to work together this past semester.

You’ve got such a great eye, and it was always a joy to see the stories you and your team shared.

Aro: I don’t miss fighting you on Sports tweets and headlines, but I do miss hanging out with you in Digital. Also, thanks for picking up some Pulp stories. You’re such a strong writer, and I can’t wait to read your work in national publications someday.

Roshan: Thanks for not taking embarrassing pictures of me on the airplane.

Danny: Don’t know if it’s just the Fratty McGee in you, but you always kept things fun and interesting. You were always so calm and collected under pressure, and I think that makes you a great leader. I’m glad I had the chance to work with you. Also, I’ll take a Vitamin Water.

KJ: Although sometimes we went crazy (never forget Football Guide 2019), working with you in-house was a blast. You’re an amazing writer who isn’t limited to one section or beat. I’ve always admired your ability to find stories

that matter. I’m so excited to see all that you’ll accomplish in the future. I know whatever you do, it’ll be great.

Katie M: Digital is such a blast, and I know you and Richard will continue to make it better. You’re so sweet and easy to work with.

I’ll be sure to check out all your hard work throughout next semester!

Nabeeha: I’m so sorry for leaving you in the University Neighborhood that one time. But thank you for spending five hours with me on that Greyhound bus back to NYC. I’m so excited to watch you take on the role of PD! You’re so talented. I will personally fight anyone for you that says otherwise! You’ve got this.

Sarah Allam: You’re a goddess. Seriously, no one else can conjure beautiful pieces of art like only you, a goddess, can. I’ve always been amazed at your ability to constantly create under deadlines. I swear you just ooze talent.

On top of all of that, you’re so kind and funny.

You’re a pillar of The D.O. — I don’t know how we’d function without you.

Lizzie: Thank you for carrying on one of my favorite parts of The D.O.: the podcast. Even from your first email, I’ve admired your initiative and determination to make the pod better and better. I know you’re going to dominate the podcast industry with your knowledge and intuition. Also, I miss our class with Craig.

Ghael: Edward R. Murrow. Walter Cronkite.

Ghael Fobes. To me, you’re already one of the greats. I think it really amazes everyone at how much natural talent you possess. I really don’t know how you do everything perfectly in a professional manner. Thank you for helping Kevin and I create something new and wonderful.

OG: Whaddup Sam! I’ve always admired your strong work ethic as well as your calm and steady leadership skills. Thanks for saving me that day. I know you and your FOIA requests are out to change the world.

Morgan: Your attention to detail when it comes to editing is spot on. I really don’t think I’ve met a person who is better with deadlines than you are. At the same time, you always managed to be so kind to everyone in the section. I’ve really appreciated all of your hard work this semester, and I’m so glad to have had you on the Pulp team.

Sydney: Your eagerness and positive attitude made working late nights at the house a little bit easier. Thank you for always being ready for anything and being my number one hypewoman. I promise to be hyping you and Pulp up from NYC (or wherever I am lol). You’re going to do amazing things at The D.O. and beyond.

Susan: Although our time together got cut short, it was such an honor to know you.

Whenever you were in the room, I somehow

found myself laughing. I hope you’re doing well at home, and I know I’ll see your byline in magazines around the world someday.

Mandy: Your talent and ability to push out amazing stories under short deadlines is incredible. Every single week, you blew me away with your work ethic and way with words.

Even during class with Professor Keller, your talent shone through. At the same time, you’re one of the sweetest people I’ve met. I know you’re destined for amazing things in the world of journalism.

Chris C: It was always a joy working you in Pulp, sitting at that broken table. It’s easy to tell how much you care about the writers and the stories they’re trying to tell. You’ve got a knack for storytelling, and I know you possess all the characteristics of a good leader. The D.O. is so lucky to have someone like you.

Diana: THE POWER OF PULP! I’m so glad you and Haley talked me into Pulp editor.

Throughout all of my semesters in house, you both pushed me into something I knew deepdown I wanted to do. I’ll forever be grateful for that. Never stop being that b*tch. Periodt.

Sarah the DJ: This is an advertisement in The D.O. for you and your amazing musical talents. Thank you for showing us all a good time.

Leffert: Thank you for keeping the staff afloat during tough times. It’s clear how much you care about this paper and the people who work on it. I really appreciated having your leadership throughout these past two semesters, and I’ll miss you and all the JJ pictures!

Haley: Thank you for planting the idea of Pulp editor in my head. It was a role I didn’t expect but couldn’t have loved more. All of it wouldn’t have been possible without your leadership and dedication to The Orange. You’re such a natural-born leader and caring person. While our D.O. careers have ended, I know our friendship never will. Also, shout-out Dave Jorgenson.

Kevin: It’s crazy to think that we had barely spoken a word to each other before working together. Yet, you were the best partner anyone could ask for. I’m constantly in awe of your talent and skill. Seriously, everything you touch turns to gold. You’re one of the most talented and humble people I know, and I really appreciated having you with me in Digital.

I’ll never forget all the memories we made from the late nights alting, to dancing Calabria 2008 with Diana at parties, to Rochester.

Whenever you’re around, I know it’s going to be a good time. Kevin Camelo, thank you.

Casey D: You’re so strong, and I will always admire you for that. It truly blows my mind how composed and strategic you’re when faced with a crisis. At the same time, you bring such a bright light to the house. I’ll miss all the

memes and Slack reacts. I’ll miss your meatballs. But I think I’ll miss hearing your laugh ring out throughout the house the most. The D.O. is so lucky to have someone like you, and I’m so lucky to have you as a friend. I know this is corny, but please never change.

Talia: We’ve endured so much together over these past few semesters (and definitely this past semester in particular lol). Thank you for always being so encouraging. You’re one of the sweetest people I know. Even in the fall semester of our freshman year, your passion and love for this paper shone through in all of your work. I’m just so excited to see all of the beauty you’ll continue to create in this world.

Jen, Meredith and Charlotte: To the most beautiful ladies I know, thanks for always making me laugh and taking the time to listen.

I could always find solace in Jen’s freshman dorm or your South apartment. Whenever I’m with any of you, I just feel like I can breathe easier (Rosa also helped with this). I hope everyone has friends as talented and wonderful as you three are. Where you lead, I will follow.

Hope: I remember eating ramen on the floor of Day 305 after a particularly late night. I was so scared I’d wake you up with the water boiler, and I did. I’m sorry for that and for all the late nights I’ve ditched you for The D.O. Regardless, I always loved coming back to you, and thank you for always being there. Well, I finally left The D.O. Now, let’s hang out.

Nick: Thanks for driving me around, bringing me dinner and ultimately, sticking it out with me. I don’t know what I’d do without your support—I know I’ll always have you to lean on. But at the same time, you make me feel like I can do anything. Love you with all my heart.

I can’t wait for all the new adventures we’ll share together.

Andy: Nothing makes me happier than seeing you succeed at the things you work so hard at.

I’m sorry this year has been a mess but know that all of your hard work isn’t for nothing. I’m so excited to watch you continue to excel and grow into the wonderful person you are. Go Blue! Love you.

Mom and Dad: Thank you for being my biggest fans. It meant so much to me, and others on staff, that you would read The D.O. so often.

I’m so lucky to have parents like you two, who really support me through everything.

Despite it all, Syracuse still feels like the right choice. I couldn’t have done it all without the love and reassurance you provided. I love you both so much.

To everyone else: What you’re doing is important. I know that’s easy to forget sometimes. It may feel impossible, but there is always a way.

P

Archiving the Ark

Follow us on Twitter

The Ark is closing, but an online platform will preserve memories made at the music venue.

Follow @DO_Pulp for stories about art, music and culture in Syracuse.

See page 11

Follow @DO_Pulp

PULP

dailyorange.com @dailyorange april 27, 2020

The Syracuse Mask Project provides cloth masks for health workers

By Sydney Bergan asst. copy editor

W

NANCY GAUS created The Syracuse Mask Project to help first responders in the commmunity during the pandemic. courtesy of maggie gaus

hen Nancy Gaus started researching which kind of masks that Syracuse area hospitals needed to battle the COVID19 outbreak, she couldn’t find anything. Gaus — who recently retired from a 12-year career as a seamstress — knew that she could put her skills to use.

“I thought, you know, I have a lot of friends that want to sew — that would like to sew masks, that would like to contribute to this effort,” she said.

This led her to establish The Syracuse Mask Project, a website that connects people sewing masks in Syracuse to local health institutions.

Hospitals and other institutions can request masks through the site, stating how many they need and which design they are accepting. It then shows these requests to locals who sew so they know where to drop the masks off.

Gaus spent about five days creating the website before launching it in late March. She is constantly updating the website with the most accurate information on making hospital-approved masks, sewing tips and local organizations that are forming sewing initiatives.

Since the website’s release, requests have poured in from places like Upstate University Hospital and Cayuga Health. Gaus said she doesn’t personally fulfill orders to individual clients and only donates them where they are needed the most.

“Anybody who sews in Syracuse can sew by themselves and donate by themselves in a bubble in their protected house,” Gaus said. “Or, they can reach out to a sewing group that already exists if they want to be part of more of a team.”

During her initial research, Gaus found some clarity once she discovered Syracuse local Beth Eischen’s Facebook video, which see masks page 10

slice of life

Old, new traditions mark 150 years of SU history the daily orange

Annual Syracuse University traditions have evolved over its 150 years of existence, an anniversary the university celebrated on March 24.

While some have faded away, all are part of its history. “[Traditions] reinforce our values such as community spirit and solidarity and sharing and hard work and diversity,” said Meg Mason, university archivist and curator of the 150 Years of Tradition at Syracuse University.

“There’s so many different people on the campus. We come from all different places and backgrounds,

•

PAG E 9

coronavirus

Behind the mask

By Morgan Tucker and Sydney Bergan

Online coverage Keep up with what’s going on in Syracuse over the summer on The Daily Orange’s website.

See dailyorange.com

and having these traditions unite us.”

Mackenzie Sammeth, a member of the U100, said these traditions change as the campus expands. The addition of the Carrier Dome in 1979 has created many traditions, like the Dome Stomp, she said.

“Regardless as to if it’s a positive memory or something that’s been a little more traumatic in our history, I think being able to have things that are uniquely Syracuse has ultimately made us more protective and more invested in these traditions and continuing them in the future,” Sammeth said.

Here are some of the traditions that have remained, evolved or disappeared over SU’s 150 years, found in SU’s university archives.

Water Fight

In the mid-1900s, beginning signs of spring meant one thing: water fight. At night, hundreds of students would swarm part of campus as they lugged backpacks, buckets, tubs, balloons and other containers full of water to the streets for a water battle against other students.

“None of the students indicated any particular reason for taking to the streets other than a combination of tradition and a celebration of warm weather,” wrote the PostStandard in April 1968.

The pre-finals week tradition quickly escalated some years, as students were reported attempting to tip cars, soaking police officers and strangers with water, interrupting

traffic and opening fire hydrants.

Freshmen Beanies

Throughout their first semester at SU, freshmen were obligated to wear green or orange beanies around campus. A marker to separate themselves from upperclassmen, the beanies were enforced by the Goon Squad, an organization that now helps firstyear students move into dorms.

Starting in the 1890s and dying out by the 1960s, this tradition was a means to build class unity while showing respect to the upperclassmen. When upperclassmen told them to “tip it, frosh,” freshmen were required to tip their hats, according to the see traditions page 10

Students update final show formats

By Mandy Kraynak asst. feature editor

Anna Molinari and three other fashion design students were gathered in a living room with their sewing machines when they found out that the Senior Fashion Show, where they would display their collections, was canceled. The four students — Molinari, two of her roommates and a downstairs neighbor — were working on their pieces for the critique that was set to happen the next day.

“And then when we found out, everybody just kind of sat there for a second and hysterically laughed.

And then, of course, there was a lot of tears,” Molinari said.

In addition to Syracuse University’s Senior Fashion Show, other showcases and exhibits such as the Newhouse Photography Annual and the Communications Design Senior Portfolio Show have been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many students whose work was supposed to be displayed in these exhibits have adapted to virtual ways of showcasing their work.

The Senior Fashion Show, originally scheduled for April 3, was going to feature the collections of senior fashion design majors. The 12 senior students in the fashion design program are in a class taught by Todd Conover, an assistant professor in the fashion design program.

Molinari said that the students have a close relationship. In their Zoom classes with Conover, the students have vented their feelings and discussed progress on their websites.

When they found out about the show’s cancellation, Molinari said that students had hope for a makeshift fashion show at a later date. But now, the students have shifted their focus to showcasing their collections through their websites and portfolios.

Dana Croutier, another fashion design senior, said that she still wants to showcase the looks in her portfolio and hopes to eventually have a photoshoot. She added that though the cancellation of the show is sad, the work the students put into the collections was still worth it.

“Show or no show, we still created all these amazing things. And a show is not the main reason why we do everything,” Croutier said.

Hannah Frankel said she was excited to have a photo displayed at Light Work for the first time through the Newhouse Photography Annual.

The 2020 Newhouse Photography Annual was set to run at Light Work Gallery on campus from March 23 until July 23 before Light Work closed its doors to the public on March 13 due to COVID-19 concerns.

The exhibit included over 30 photographs from students in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, and images will now be featured on Light Work’s website.

For the photo Frankel took for a story about Loop Grill, the second see showcases page 10

10 april 27, 2020

from page 9

masks showed viewers how to make the rectangular masks hospitals needed.

Eischen, a molecular biologist and biology professor at Onondaga Community College, also runs a women’s clothing and accessories business called Lilipad Creations. In order to combat COVID-19, she has turned her art studio in Delavan Center into a mask-making operation.

Using her knowledge of biology, Eischen brainstormed with health professionals to develop the most protective masks possible.

The result was her rectangular mask lined with surgical sheeting.

“This is the field that I teach in, and it was just very clear to me that this shortage in masks was going to be very dire,” Eischen said. “It was going to be very dire for health personnel, essential personnels, people on the frontlines and any essential workers, so I really felt driven from page 9

showcases oldest bar in Syracuse, she received an honorable mention at the exhibit. Frankel said that she was pretty disappointed about the cancellation of the Newhouse Photography Annual, but understood why it was canceled.

Maranie Staab, a graduate student whose photo won Best in Show in the Newhouse Photography Annual exhibit said she was grateful for the recognition of Best in Show, but this was not the reason she took the photo. Staab’s photo depicts a Yazidi bride in a makeshift beauty parlor at a displacement camp in Iraqi Kurdistan.

The Communications Design Portfolio Show was also canceled. Each year, SU seniors in the communications design program participate in a portfolio showcase.

This year’s show was scheduled for April 27 at the Nancy Cantor Warehouse. The students’ portfolio books are then displayed at a twoday showcase at the Fisher Center in New York City.

Nicole Stallings-Blanche, a senior in the communications design program, said that she and other students in the program have

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to get these masks done and get them in the hands of those who didn’t have them.”

Eischen said she was featured on News Channel 9 for her work making masks on March 25. After her segment on the news, she said her business Facebook page “blew up” with requests for masks from health center supervisors. She stopped counting how many masks she had made at 500, but said she thinks she has made well over 1,000.

Others in the Syracuse area, such as Nancy Volk, are focused on making masks to meet the needs of the Salvation Army of Syracuse. With help from members of the community, Volk has provided about 150 masks to the local organization, where she is a volunteer.

Volk is trying to provide masks to those working at shelters, food distribution and daycare centers run by the Salvation Army. She is also making masks for the children who frequent the Salvation Army operations with their families by adjusting the mask size so they stay had to restructure an entire section of how they would build their portfolios.

“More than anything, we’ve just had to be resourceful and just look at different ways of going about it,” Stallings-Blanche said. “What we’re doing is we’ve kind of refocused our energy on really pushing forward with our websites because that’s going to be the way that most people will view our portfolios.”

Stallings-Blanche said that there has been a shift in the way that the portfolios will be shown. There will now be a drop date for the students’ websites and a possible virtual event.

The senior said she felt that she was in a privileged situation because she had access to the resources needed to complete her portfolio from home, such as access to a printer and photographer at her home. She also said her experiences may not reflect those of others in the communications design program.

“There may be a shift,” Stallings-Blanche said. “But we’re fighters, and we’ll get through this. And we still have the same skill sets that make us competitive.” ackrayna@syr.edu

secure on smaller faces.

“Sometimes people see, I think, the health care workers’ needs pretty easily, and I think we can forget that there are other people out there that also have needs, too,” Volk said. “And I’ve sort of thought if we can keep our frontline workers in protective gear of some type, then our masks like the N95 can be saved for health care workers.”

Susan Coots, director of the Family Planning Service of Onondaga County, also requested masks through the Syracuse Mask Project and social media, and has had 200 donations from members of the community. The health care organization, which provides reproductive and sexual health services to low-income individuals — has stayed open during the pandemic.

It has changed the way it operates, though, screening patients over the phone for COVID19 symptoms and when they arrive at the facility for an appointment.

FPS has enough surgical masks for its medical staff and is taking mask donations to give to from page 9

traditions 150 Years of Tradition at Syracuse University digital exhibition. If students were seen without beanies on multiple occasions, they faced public humiliation at the Penn State Pep Rally.

Calculus Burial

Sophomores in the College of Liberal Arts, now the College of Arts and Sciences, were all required to take calculus, which most despised taking, Mason said.

At the end of the semester, the calculus students personified “Calculus” and gave it a funeral service.

They wrote and prepared eulogies, dirges and programs. The services varied, including burials, cremations, letting a balloon go into the sky or preparing a little coffin to put in a local lake. This tradition began in 1873 and ended before the 20th century.

May Queen, Women’s Day

the patients that come into the office. Coots said that the mask donations have come from both her social media post and the listing she made on the Syracuse Mask Project.

Gaus wants to make sure people are using caution “when interacting with other members of this fabulous sewing community,” she wrote on her website. She encourages people to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for social distancing and hygiene protocol.

Gaus said that after Gov. Andrew Cuomo requested that everyone should wear masks in public, she received an influx of inquiries from government agencies for masks for their essential workers.

“Once we get through this difficult period, the site may not be needed anymore so it would be time to take it down,” Gaus said. “But for right now it’s my intent to grow this and make sure it’s serving the people that need the information.” sabergan@syr.edu

the Senior Women’s Honorary Society, Eta Pi Upsilon, founded the May Queen crowning in 1914 as part of Women’s Day. “She was basically voted as probably the best of the senior class,” Mason said.

Women’s Day evolved into May Day and over time, May Day turned into Spring Weekend. A May Queen was always crowned, and other activities included the strawberry breakfast, maypole dancing, parades and a lantern ceremony. Spring Weekend traditions ended in the 1960s.

Split Day

One day each semester, a bar called 44’s Tavern would hand out small drinks called “splits” to people early in the morning, according to the University Archives.

Documents in the archives said that the tradition began as a competition between 44’s Tavern and a bar at Penn State University to see who could drink more splits.

44’s Tavern closed in spring 2000 and became Konrad’s Sports Bar, The Daily Orange reported. mctucker@syr.edu sabergan@syr.edu

To celebrate women students and alumni,

Keep soaring to new heights as you dive into the next adventure of life. We are so very proud of you and love you so much!

Mom, Dad, Caroline, Mamama and Dadada

OUR SECOND LOCATION!

OPENING SPRING 2021 IN THE SALT CITY MARKET A new full-service grocery store in the heart of downtown Syracuse 484 South Salina St

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april 27, 2020 11

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From the

stage pulp

dailyorange.com @dailyorange april. 27, 2020

ARK-IVED

The Ark, a popular underground performance venue, is shutting down after two years in operation. Local artists, such as NONEWFRIENDS and The Brazen Youth, have performed at the house.

katie reahl staff photographer

By Christopher Cicchiello asst. feature editor

T

he Ark’s farewell was supposed to be memorable.

The underground music venue, run

by Syracuse University students, is shutting its doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

When SU announced it would move classes online for the rest of the semester, organizers planned to meet with houses on Lancaster Avenue to organize a multi-house festival with bands performing all day long.

That meeting couldn’t happen. But to preserve the memories of good times at The Ark, the student staff has focused their efforts on developing an online archival platform: The Ark Collections. The free website, which will feature track recordings of concerts, photographs and profiles on influential artists, is the brainchild of founding member and senior Noah Steinberg.

“The Ark has become the perfect opportunity to develop a multimedia storytelling platform,” Steinberg said. “One that draws influence from the vast number of archived underground media that exists, but adapting it to a modern platform, something that’s more interactive and more accessible to people.”

Steinberg became obsessed with archived underground media and received a source grant from the university to study it all over the world.

For him, this is a way to give back to the community that defined his own college experience.

“It’s a community that we’ve unintentionally become a part of that has really become the cornerstones of our lives,” Steinberg said. “There are so many relationships that people have made through The Ark, so many connections with artists, collaborations, friends, loved ones.”

The Ark Collections will also serve as a tool for new music venues to see the inner workings of The Ark, said founding member and senior Ryan McKeown. He hopes the concerts become intertwined with student organizations to expand “this little micro scene at Syracuse.”

An online platform will feature audio and video from past concerts at The Ark Throughout the recent history of SUs underground music scene, most music venues have not lasted longer than two years, McKeown said. Infighting and external stressors ultimately break down the bonds of friendship between roommates who struggle to throw concerts weekend after weekend, he added.

“They have their shine and then they fall apart,” McKeown said.

The Ark was on the path to closure when it first shut down last August, Steinberg said. That is, until the Syracuse music community responded.

“We quickly discovered that The Ark wasn’t our operation, but it was the community that developed from our events,” Steinberg said. “When the Ark dissolved, the community reacted pretty strongly and came to our support. And so, from there, we really couldn’t deprive people of the experience that they had developed and earned, so we reopened The Ark.” But after a resurgent year for The Ark — one defined by large audience turnout, more press, more art and a dedication to improving concert production — the COVID-19 pandemic forced an end to its existence. The founding members announced April 10 that they would halt operations on May 10.

During its two years of operation, The Ark hosted 41 events at its 917 Lancaster Ave. house, according to a press release. On average, shows and events would garner crowds of 150 to 200 patrons, depending on the night, Steinberg said.

Former strategic coordinator Benji Wittman, a music industry master’s student, was one of more than a dozen individuals who were central

to the operations of The Ark. Above all, professionalism was a priority, McKeown said. That meant detailed written plans in case of an emergency, professional recordings of each show and a professional artist booking system.

Rory Stanley, a rising senior and booking agent for the venue, never anticipated the Syracuse music scene to have such a wide variety. Stanley was tasked with finding talent among local and touring bands including Settle for Sadler, NONEWFRIENDS., Joe Morgan and The Brazen Youth.

“All of our music was very diverse,” Stanley said. “We didn’t just stick to one genre all the time, and I think that’s what kind of made The Ark.” The Ark was in the process of hosting more university-sponsored shows, which included a performance from Stanley’s band The Weather Channel, Wittman said.

Stanley is determined to preserve underground music in the community. During the spring semester, she helped launch The Deli, a music house known for leaving a trail of sliced bread on sidewalks to guide people to the shows.

Even so, she remains doubtful.

“Now with The Ark gone, and especially with all the stuff going on with (the COVID-19 pandemic), the DIY scene is completely dead at the moment,” Stanley said. “There are no house shows going on at all.”

Meanwhile, McKeown remains confident that the underground music scene will continue to expand. He trusts the cyclical process of music houses making their mark and then dissolving.

Before The Ark, there was Space Camp and The End, McKeown said.

Looking back on his time with The Ark, Steinberg said this is the first of many projects both him and McKeown as they “dissolve The Ark back into the community in which it arose from.”

“We’re far from done in this work,” Steinberg said. “The Ark was always ever considered the first step in this journey and for me archival work, both as a study and a practice, is a way to reconvene what has happened and adapt it to the modern time.” cmcicchi@syr.edu

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PAGE 11

12 april 27, 2020

Catherine Leffert

dailyorange.com

asst. news editor spring 2018 - fall 2018 • managing editor fall 2019 - spring 2020 There’s a twisted irony to this year. Even though we were constantly transitioning, I always felt adjusted. Whether it was starting the school year with an almost entirely new staff, moving to a different house, killing mice, losing WiFi, meeting an earlier deadline or even leaving campus amid the coronavirus pandemic, we weathered through it because The Daily Orange is a team.

We supported each other. We supported each other stronger than the bones of 744 Ostrom Ave. could support it’s rotting rooms. Working at The D.O. this year was unlike any other in its history.

I wouldn’t change a thing. My time at The D.O. over the past four semesters has tried me in the toughest, and best, ways.

It brought me — like a montage of happy memories — 2 a.m. McDonald’s runs, coffee at any time of the day, laughs until I cried, cries that turned to laughter, silly headlines, scary phone calls, LOTS of singing, my best friends for life and now, the saddest goodbye. This is for The D.O., and for the people who are its soul — past, present and future.

Satoshi: You were the first person that ever made me feel welcome at The D.O. I really was just an intimidated freshman and you helped me understand I had a place here.

Torrens: I’ve looked up to you from the second I met you. You were the first ME I saw in action, and my first guide for what I should strive to be.

Let’s keep ogling over babies together.

Diaz: You’re cool, smart, kind and thoughtful, always. Any conversation with you eases my mind.

Justin: You scared me when I first walked into The D.O., which seems silly to me now. The 2011 World Series will still be one of the best days for you, but one of the worst for me.

Sara: You gave me my break at this crazy place as an SA beat writer, so you helped me become the journalist I am now. Thank you, but let’s leave those five-hour meetings in the past.

Bridget: My first memory of you is you playing clarinet around the house during Secret Santa. You’ve kept me laughing since then.

You’re always so interesting, from feminism to baking. I miss our Visuals hangouts.

Colleen: You are fierce and you are loyal and luckily for everyone, those traits will follow you forever. You give so much to your friends, and you gave so much to me. It started with that Chick-Fil-A story two years ago. My crowning moment. Texas forever!

Rori: I remember being so glad when you said you would room with me in Madrid. That experience would’ve been entirely different and less fun without you. Thank you for being a great roommate, one of the biggest hustlers I’ve ever met and constantly hilarious. Te extrano!

Lydia: You’re quick as a whip, so in tune to people and an overall badass. The issues you care about are the issues others need to hear about. Don’t change.

Sandhya: Wow, working at The D.O.e as a PR major! Inspiring, honestly. I miss doing Buzzfeed quizzes and bubble tea dates with you.

Jenna: I’m really glad I forced you to be a designer. Missed you this year.

Kaci: Women are often made to feel like they don’t belong. You do. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Jessi: Hissssss. It was sad when you transferred, but I’m so glad you’re happier out west.

Anna: Hey, I’m not sure if this is news, but…. you are a powerhouse! You’re funny and know everything. Keep me in the know on all things pop culture (especially One Direction).

Diana: Girl, I could never keep up with your energy, but I loved it. You’re a fireball and hilarious.

Molly: That ice skating project. The Katko protest. Oh man, so many articles that just wouldn’t have been the same without you.

Thank you for capturing the part of stories that I couldn’t.

Crane: I know you’ll take the sports section….

Sky High. Great movie. But really, I always looked forward to your descriptions of Buffalo and your brilliant A1’s. Keep on.

Lamb: #copy_team was so much better with you there to call people out and sling a react for a good AP Style rule. Thanks for every catch.

Maggie, Chis, Sarah Alessandrini, Mar-

nie, Richard: Y’all are so young and so talented. You’ll be doing amazing things and you better believe I’ll be searching for your bylines.

Chris C. and Mandy: Thank you for watching me microwave my dinner each night. Don’t let anyone underestimate the Power of Pulp.

Mitch, Roshan, Gaurav, Tim: I’ll leave you all with a few bad mac pitches: Final goodbye.

Last chance. Hard to go. Tough loss. Game over. To be continued...

Nabeeha: Girl! I am so thankful we hired you at the beginning of this year. You’re fun and amazing and you’ll be an incredible PD. Sarah Allam: You never cease to astound me with your creativity and ability.

Ghael: I say this in all sincerity: I cannot wait to see what you do. Someone as smart and driven as you will go so far. Keep me informed.

Katie M.: You are so bright, and you put up with all my weird quips in design meetings so gracefully. Thank you for that, you’ll be great as DDD. Emily: I see a lot of myself in you. With a drive like yours, I’ll be working for you one day. Your growth in Photo will be so fun to watch. I’ll keep my eye out for you down the line.

Sess: Oh, Sess — who tried to add 17 emdashes in a single article — I will miss your sick burns, your critical thinking skills and your inside scoops on Pages Cafe. But seriously, a french fry bar??

India: I have so much to thank you for. Keeping my fish alive for so long. Letting me copy your homework for a semester. And always being the coolest person in the room, in any room we’re in.

Kevin: You are insanely talented, and you are so kind. Your splash pages were all incredible and so over my head.

KJ: You need some sleep, dude. You grind so hard, and produce some amazing stuff. Be nice to yourself.

Billman: You impressed me every single day.

Not an exaggeration. Your determination and skill will take you so far, but your humble, sweet, bright demeanor will take you even farther.

Corey: I can, without a doubt, say I have never met a kinder soul than you. When you talk to people, you make them glow, myself included.

It was an honor to work with you and see your beautiful photos. They’re almost as beautiful as your heart.

Aishwarya: My Texas girl! Thank you for showing me the ropes with kindness. You’re

so gifted. You empower people and yourself and I was so happy to try and follow in your footsteps this year.

Ali: A real-life ray of sunshine. You spread warmth and glee, but aren’t afraid to hammer down (cue the meme you made of you using a hammer on me). Through fall 2018, you were an anchor for me. Thank you for everything.

Whether you end up in the mountains or a newsroom, you’ll keep on making people happy!

Maeve: You are so incredibly generous, whether it’s with your time, your clothes (shoutout that one party), or your talents. You give so much and everyone who gets is better for it.

Thank you for letting me be one of those people.

I hope we stay friends for a long, long time.

Casey: Oh, man. Sometimes the way you think amazes me. You’re so sharp and I feel bad for people not on your side. (I hope I’m never one of them). You will do so much and so well with The D.O. in this wild, new era. You’ll face a lot of challenges, and I know you’ll take them in stride. I’d say good luck, but I don’t think you need it.

Amy: *Screams* I literally do not have enough good things to say about you to accurately describe how wonderful you are. You are an incredible designer, writer, leader and friend.

The D.O. was lucky to have you for so long, and I was lucky to work with you. Thank you for being you.

Danny: I’m not gonna lie, when I first heard you were in a frat, I was worried about what you’d be like. (Roll AEPi). But really, you’re a friendly, thoughtful goober with a wicked work ethic to boot. Thanks for that ride that seems like forever ago. You sounded just like Nick Jonas. Friend szn.

Emma: The intelligence! The fashion! You will lead this paper with grace and poise and you will lead it so well. You’re thoughtful, hard-working and there’s no one else to whom I’d rather pass the torch. I’ll always remember you as testing my home for lead and always on the hunt for housing scoops. I cannot wait to see what else you do.

Jordan: I think we drove each other crazy in a delightful, sometimes unhinged, sibling way. The way you care about your projects is so special. You’re so dedicated to the craft and that shows in everything you do. Thank you for being a friend and an editor….and for dealing with me as an SA beat writer. I miss you

and hope our paths cross more.

Kennedy: You crazy bean! Not a day went by when we worked together that you didn’t make me laugh. We’ve shared so much and I wouldn’t change a thing because adventures with you are always the most fun. Whether it’s in Canada, New York City, Syracuse or wherever else life takes us, I’d be thrilled to be by your side. I love you like a sister.

Sam: My time at this paper would be completely different if it wasn’t for you. Every edit, every compliment, every critique, every “gg” or “sick and dope,” every time you pretended you weren’t listening when you were and every memory we have I’ll cherish. Coworker. You’ve shown me so much about what it means to be a journalist, a leader and a friend. I’m glad I got to learn from the best. Wherever we go, know I’m always just a text away. Take care of Red Panda.

Talia: We definitely still hold the world record for shortest time to become best friends. One day, we knew each other, the next day we’d die for each other. Sweet Talia, you are a soul friend. I had no idea when I met you that someday we’d be imagining dream scenarios in which we live in the same city and go out for brunch on Sundays. There’s so much to love about you and I love all of it! I love how you make me laugh, how you so nicely shut down my sucky design ideas, how you are so confident in your ability, just like you should be, and how you radiate a light that makes my heart so happy. You and me forever.

Haley: Did we get tested this year or what?

When I got your message last February, I probably knew two things about you. That’s weird to think about now because sometimes I think we read each other’s minds. We got used to spending every waking minute with each other and now we’re 1,500 miles apart, which is a cruel joke. But I know we’ll stay close in our hearts. I’ll miss our sleepovers, our coffee runs, closed-door convos, sharing snacks, dancing, singing and just seeing your face all the time. Thank you for leading this paper, for being there when I was nervous, for leaning on me when you needed a friend, for trusting me everyday (even when I had whacky ideas) and for hiring me in the first place. I love you.

Mom, Dad, Caroline and Drew: Thank you for always supporting me through everything.

It helps me more than you know, even when I don’t show it. I love you all so much.

dailyorange.com

Haley Robertson

april 27, 2020 13

asst. copy editor spring 2018 • asst. feature editor fall 2018 • feature editor spring 2019 • editor-in-chief fall 2019 - spring 2020 How do you measure five semesters at The Daily Orange?

In stories, in late nights, in mistakes, in dusty archives. In deadlines, in tears, in PUP food, in love.

The D.O. is more than a house at 744 Ostrom or 230 Euclid. It’s everyone who opened that red door and stuck around to make this newspaper a home. Thank you all for making it mine.

Lydia: My first-ever read at The D.O. was with you on a CNY Playhouse story. We sat in Digital as you patiently restructured every graf. Since then, you’ve been like an older sister to me.

I remember your wall signature was the last piece to crumble in Pulp as we watched 744 get demolished. A small reminder of your legacy.

Colleen: Thanks for taking a chance on the freshman theater nerd in spring 2018. You led Pulp with heart and candor, and made the house feel way less intimidating. I savor every ounce of your life advice, especially when you’re talking a mile a minute to squeeze out every glorious thought.

Díaz and Torrens: The D.O. first felt like a home when I saw two strong women leading Sunday meeting. Thank you for letting me pick your brains at Cafe Kubal last spring to learn how you fostered such an enthusiastic and supportive newsroom. You’re the best role models anyone could ask for. I hope we made you proud this year.

Andy: I knew you were a D.O. legend when I saw you climb on top of the vending machine to scare people at PUP food. D.O. parties haven’t been the same without you on aux. We need more ABBA, always.

Sara: You’re an icon and I’m so grateful to have worked with you. Thank you for staying in touch this year and supporting D.O. journalists beyond your time at 744.

Jordan: Some of The D.O.’s most important stories have your byline at the top. You’re one of the greatest reporters (and biggest Disney fans) I’ve ever met.

Kennedy: “Even when you kick us out — we will be here forever.” You’re tough as nails yet a teddy bear at the same time. Forever inspired by your grit and fantastic humor.

Bridget: Thanks for hearing out my wacky project ideas at pre-headeds. Some of my favorite D.O. memories were at your house, doing homework with your adorable cats.

Aishwarya: Sorry for my dumb mac pitches.

You were always so patient and understanding whenever things seemed to be falling apart.

I’m grateful for that.

Ali: Crying over Hozier at Turning Stone with you was a healing experience. Thank you for lifting me up when I let my mistakes beat me down. You’re the most radiant beam of sunshine and I can’t wait to see where life takes you — you seem to be ready for anything.

Sandhya: You’re my copy sister and the kindest human. I’m so happy Pulp stopped publishing event bars after our tenure.

Mike: Thanks for reminding me to shovel my car out on Euclid Avenue to avoid a ticket. You pour your heart into keeping this place afloat.

I’m grateful to have been part of that.

Hillman: One of my most vivid D.O. memories is your performance of “Firework” in management during Secret Santa. I think we’re due for a reprise.

Aro: Sorry I never bought that milk. I’m so happy you covered more theater and opera this semester. Let’s play pool sometime.

Dabbundo: We’ve come a long way since the Sadler days. Working with you was a blast, especially your nightly check-ins and jokes that didn’t always hit. I guess BDJ majors can hang after all.

KJ: You’re the biggest goofball and a joy to work with. Hope you don’t forget your Sunday through Wednesday friends when you’re a big bad senior. Baby budget at 7 or you’re fired.

Kaci: I’ve never cheered so hard at a sporting event than I did for you at Media Cup. I’ll miss our life chats between classes at Food.com.

Nat and India: You’re two of the most hardworking people The D.O. has ever seen. Thank you for your perseverance.

Gabe: Cheers to returning to staff after ducking. Except this time, we can go to Flip Night

instead of production on Wednesdays.

Maeve: You take no sh*t from people. I admire that. I loved seeing your capstone come to fruition and can’t wait to watch you thrive in Seattle.

Mackenzie: Thanks for welcoming me as a guest member of FYP. Your warmth and creativity made The D.O. a better place.

Molly: Photo editor is most definitely the hardest job in house. You rocked it though, every single week.

Anna: Your PUP food ethnographic study blew my mind. Also, you’re an angel for volunteering to organize D.O. formal. I miss you.

Sarah Slavin: Your sense of humor is unparalleled. I’m constantly inspired by your willingness to advocate for what you believe in.

Spring 2020 staff: It’s been an honor working with the most mellow, kind, eager and focused group of journalists. I’ve learned so much from you. I’m sorry we never got a proper goodbye.

Designers: I’ve never seen a more talented group of rookies. It’s your turn to run the paper now.

Sports: You may pitch cringeworthy macs, but you can definitely put “TikTok star” on your resumes. Thank you for pushing through when plans unraveled this spring.

News: You’ve handled an unprecedented breaking news cycle like seasoned pros. I couldn’t be more proud.

Casey T.: You’re so ridiculously talented.

Never stop asking questions.

Sessa: The king of edit boards and saucy write-ups. I’ve never seen you give up at anything (except that class project we quit together, oops). Can’t wait to read more of your bylines next year.

Austin: I remember our first phone call before you were even on campus. I’m so impressed by your diligence in everything you edit and write. Stay curious and humble.

Crane and Roshan: Your positive attitude and immense dedication will guide Sports through whatever challenges you face next year. I know you’ll deliver important, thoughtful storytelling no matter what. I’m sorry we won’t get to hang on the Cape this summer — chowder’s on me next time.

Sarah Allam: Everything you create belongs in the MoMA. I hope your duck is painted with, like, 14-Karat gold.

Emily: I’ll never understand how you managed to pick up so many last-minute assignments. Your work ethic and bubbly personality will take you so far at The D.O. and beyond.

Nabeeha: My favorite part of design meeting was giggling with you when our brains seemed to be on the same wavelength. You have everything it takes to be a fantastic PD. Can’t wait to watch you soar.

Elizabeth: Walking into Visuals was always so calming. I credit that to your quiet, powerful energy. Thank you for being a team player.

Corey: I knew you were going to be a great photo editor when you told us you loved spreadsheets. I’m amazed by everything you do, from taking phenomenal photos to landscaping a ~ sweet ~ island on Animal Crossing. You approach your work with boundless empathy, and it shows. Don’t let anyone ever make you think otherwise.

Chris: A feature editor who doesn’t like the Beatles? Sounds suspicious. Seriously though, you’re a rockstar and I know Pulp is in good hands. When we finally start that D.O. band, I know who I’m calling to be the manager.

Mandy: I knew from our first read in Jabberwocky Cafe that you were a force to be reckoned with. It’s been amazing watching you grow — you’re going to do big things.

Emma: I can’t wait to see you take management by storm. Your sharp instincts and news savviness will bring this paper to new heights.

Trust that.

Rori: So happy your documentary brought you back to 744 so we could hang all the time.

Don’t forget your D.O. pals when you cop that first Oscar.

Kevin: One of my favorite days last fall was picking out a new WiFi system with you at Best Buy before getting Jimmy John’s. Wow, Orbi

has served The D.O. well. Thanks for being my right-hand man during the big move. I don’t know what I would have done without you by my side in the Bencement while the ancient technology screamed at us. “Honk” revival next year?

Amy: Is there anything you can’t do? You tackled major responsibilities at two different newsrooms and thrived in both roles. I’m grateful for our shared love of Dave Jorgenson.

You’ve taught me so much, both at The D.O. and in “real life.” I feel so lucky that we’ve had classes together — especially our little D.O. corner in NEW 305. You’re one of the most genuine and talented souls.

Diana: I knew you were more than a D.O. friend when we reported together at the indoor winter fair. I swear, that memory is the gift that keeps on giving. You’re always up for a challenge, and you conquer every one with incredible spunk. I miss listening to your fire music recs during prodo. The AP Style entry for “power of Pulp” has your name written all over it. Periodt.

Kelsey: Mid-production yoga sessions on the Pulp floor. Coffee dates at nearly every cafe in Syracuse. Camping out at Schine Underground to write up a 1500-word triple-byline coverage.

We worked together for a year but I feel like I’ve known you my whole life. You taught me to write and report with unwavering compassion (and with caffeine, of course). Thank you for empathizing with my ferocious fear of corrections and for always being there when I needed a good laugh or cry. I owe so much to you.

Danny: Everything with you is electric, from flinging empty Vitamin Water bottles down the stairs to ripping Shamrock Shakes in three different towns. You should be proud of what you accomplished this semester, especially in the Dome (you crushed it on the court AND in the press box). Thanks for always embracing weird hours, and for being one of my best friends. Looking forward to kickbacks up the wazoo once life gets normal again. *cue Anthem Lights Class of 2018 Medley* Sam: We bonded over the two most fantastic places in Syracuse: a fast-food restaurant exclusive to shopping malls and a chomped house on Ostrom Avenue. Cheers to winding up on the roof of said house. And to blasting “Baba O’Riley” on the management speakers when the pressure of keeping a scrappy 116-year-old organization afloat hit hard. I’ve never met anyone as driven and tenacious as

you. The D.O. is the No. 1 student newspaper in the country because of what you did here.

You’re a brilliant mentor and reporter, and an even better friend. #744ever Casey: Eight semesters? You’re wild. I’m so flippin’ proud of you. If anyone can successfully manage an independent student newspaper at the brink of a global economic collapse, it’s you. Enjoy the rollercoaster ahead, keep cooking up the best Crock-Pot meatballs, and please don’t archive the #dankmemes channel. Thanks for always keeping me on my toes.

Give me a ring whenever you need Pita Pit and a medium iced caramel coffee with cream delivered to 230. I’ll be there, even if it’s at 3 a.m (because yes, you’ll have those nights). I promise it’s all worth it.

Galpups: *cue ghost choir* Talia: I knew I could trust you with anything when we cranked out a 32-page paper our first night on the job alone, then stayed at the house until 4 a.m. to cry as we read it frontto-back on Issuu. I’ll miss saying goodnight to our beloved pages, camping out at Recess, dancing messily in your living room and gossiping over brunch at Ernie. No one understands how wonderfully complex and special The D.O. is like you do. I’m so fortunate this weird, wonderful newsroom introduced me to my Cancer sister. You’ve inspired everyone around you to think critically and design for good. I’m counting down the days until I can hug you again.

Leffert: Wow. We made it through one of the wackiest years in D.O. history. Setting up mice traps at 3 a.m. Relocating to alternate bureaus when the WiFi quit. Hosting the most epic alumni party. Watching our home get bulldozed. Halting production amid a global health crisis. With you by my side, I knew we could get through anything. Cheers to every Bruegger’s and McDonald’s run, post-production showtune session, and spicy board call.

I’ll miss working in the same office with my best friends every night. I hope your future newsroom is decked out in fluffy pillows and teddy bears, too.

Annelise: I knew you were forever a D.O. stan when you let me conduct phone interviews on speakerphone in our Sadler split double.

Thank you for always being there for me even when I was barely home.

Mom: Thanks for listening to me gush and cry over this newspaper for almost three years.

I’m who I am today because of you. I love you.

14 april 27, 2020

dailyorange.com

To my original three beans

Adam Johnson!

You’ve all come so far, and I couldn’t be prouder to have had you as both colleagues and friends.

You’re a force to be reckoned with.

Can’t wait to see what you do next.

(Thanks for not being flakes.)

You did it! A whole five years! I love you, and I’m with you through this whole shebang. Congratulations!

Love always, Kennedy

Kennedy

Congratulations Rori and all the graduating DO seniors. We are so proud of your dedication and accomplishments to make the paper successful.

Love, Mom, Dad, Jami and Bandit

Congratulations, Davis! We are so very proud of you! We cannot wait to see what your next chapter holds!!! We love you!!

Mom, Dad, Josh, and Chloe

april 27, 2020 15

dailyorange.com

Congratulations Sophia!

Continue to reach for your goals, never compromise your values and live every day with purpose.

Love, Mom, Dad and Michael

Vanessa Davila

“Share your sparkle wherever you are.” -Dodinsky

You’ve worked hard, we couldn’t be more proud. You’re amazing!

Love Mom. Papa, Nana and Family

“California Sun meets Syracuse Winter”

Congrats Justin!

Congratulations Maddix!!

You are off to grand adventures!

Love, Anzy & Mom

16 april 27, 2020

dailyorange.com

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dailyorange.com sports@dailyorange.com

Alvarez: Hack reflects on being 1st in family to graduate college

I

didn’t want to walk across the stage for graduation. I didn’t want to traverse the makeshift stage the university would’ve cobbled together on the Quad. I didn’t want to navigate my divorced family coming together for what would only be a hectic weekend.

In my head, it was a formality. The diploma and four years of memNICK ories would be enough ALVAREZ to commemorate my OUTTA time at Syracuse.

NOW HER E When I brought this plan to my parents, they understandably shot it down. My grandma then reminded me of something I was told, but never processed in its totality.

I will be the first member of my family to graduate from an American university.

After our talk, I actually looked forward to graduation. My family would get to see the culmination of their hard work.

Instead, May 10 will be just another day in lockdown, one of the many body blows delivered by COVID-19.

Being a first-gen college graduate was never a part of my identity, but it is now. So this column is for my family, their stories and their sacrifices.

Abuelita Moncha, my great-grandmother, routinely asked me about college. She always broke it into two syllables, “col-lege.” She grew up with seven siblings, eventually dropping out of school in fifth grade to help her widowed mother.

Abuelita taught herself math and electrician skills, rigging household appliances throughout her adult life. She died before I started high school, but that word — “col-lege” — always stuck with me.

My grandma Millie grew up in the 1950s.

In high school, she learned shorthand and her advisers never mentioned the prospect of college. “I guess they figured they’d prepare us for secretarial work and that’s it,” she said.

Millie and her husband Antonio moved from Puerto Rico with my mom and uncle to Union City, New Jersey. Antonio was a Spanish priest and a math aficionado who became a teacher after leaving the clergy. He went on to produce projections for local political campaigns. Millie was a court director and when he died she earned her real estate license.

My grandma remains a stalwart in our hometown, known for her cooking, hospitality and work with the local parish. She taught me maturity and the importance of family. It’s because of her that I’m writing this.

Rocio Villarreal, my mom, has worked since she was 14 years old. She started in a Burger King and as a teenager was hired as a teacher’s aid. Mrs. Menendez, one of her high school teachers, stressed the importance of higher education. For two years, my mom attended a community college, but her class schedule interfered with her work hours. Rocio kept working, she still is.

In the last few years, she’s been elected as a high-ranking member of the Union City Education Association. She has helped me through countless late-night projects and always told me to keep going, even when the situation seemed most-dire. My mom is a do-it-all problem solver in the largest high school in the most densely populated city in the country.

My dad, Lazaro Alvarez, describes his path as the “hard way.” In his junior year of high school, he enrolled in the National Guard. He served as a paramedic, earning his high school diploma before returning home. After scoring

a 98.7% on his civil service exam, he became a police officer in Union City.

When I was a toddler, he started a college fund for me. He always made sure I had a book in my hands and doubled whatever my school reading assignments were. My dad motivated me to start a sports blog and eventually apply to Syracuse.

I received my Newhouse acceptance letter and immediately called my mom. I still remember hearing her break down in tears over the phone. I still remember hearing the emotion in my dad’s voice when he said how proud he was.

Generations of Alvarezes and Villarreals led me here. I tell their stories because they deserve to be a part of the paper that taught me storytelling.

To those mentioned here and to those who aren’t: I’ll never be able to thank you enough.

I love you all. My degree is your accomplishment as much as it is mine.

— 30 — Nick Alvarez was a senior staff writer for The Daily Orange, where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at nialvare@syr.edu or on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez

Schafer: Hack thanks the people that mattered more than they knew

T

hree years later, I still can’t pin down the exact low point. I remember the tears. I remember feeling helpless. I remember the empty cans of Keystone Light and the constant worry that someone may find out how I was feeling.

But what I can’t remember is when the whole world felt most overbearing and I wondered how to escape it all.

It’s hard to find the JOSH lowest point in a hole.

SCHAFER There are things I STAY HUNGRY do remember from my second semester of college, though. Like the first time I interviewed someone for 30 minutes. I proudly bragged to my mentors. Or the time I wrote my first long feature. I sent that one to my family. The rung on the ladder that brings me the biggest smile today is “Sergio’s Pleasure.”

A small nugget in an otherwise meaningless story came together on an old torn couch that hosts more memories for others than anyone would care to admit. In the visuals room of The Daily Orange at 744 Ostrom Ave., Matthew Gutierrez read the story with me for hours and sent feedback after.

Sam Fortier instructed us to look up the ingredients. Maybe the details about the

triple-decker corn beef sandwich didn’t really matter. But hey, shooters shoot.

Sports editor Tomer Langer was nice enough to put it on the Internet. All of them, without knowing it, helped pull me out of the most depressive rut of my life. Following years of committing myself to sports and other community-centric activities, I was lost as a freshman at Syracuse University. I didn’t know what I wanted out of college, let alone the rest of my life.

The D.O. and the friends I made within the thin walls of 744 Ostrom Ave. changed all of that for me. It took the articles to stop and a building torn down for me to realize what it all really meant. It wasn’t about the stories we wrote or the media opportunities we missed.

The D.O. taught me that place doesn’t define community, people do.

I’ll never forget the first person I met at The D.O. Paul Schwedelson, or Mr.Schwedelson as I probably thought he was called at the time. A short fella with glasses that can’t weigh more than an eighth grade Josh Schafer, didn’t look like many of my friends from high school. I remember telling my dad I was weary of The D.O. being my place to fit in on campus. The kids were “nerdy.”

In the coming weeks, I’d learn that my macho wannabe-athlete attitude toward Schwed was a crock of sh*t. He’d take more of

an interest in my work than most people I’d ever met and proved to me that writing was a craft. His long phone calls three years later show he wasn’t faking it.

Through four years at The D.O. I’d meet countless other people like Schwed, each bringing me further entrenched into the community. The summer after freshman year, when I started as a copy editor, several ignored emails from the beach taught me The D.O. doesn’t only operate when we’re all in the same room.

We geeked out on journalism together through Google Docs, phone calls and eventually far too long-winded car rides. On the road we traveled all over the Atlantic Coast Conference, usually south down I-81 or west on I-90.

The D.O. brought me to the foot of Touchdown Jesus, within striking distance of Howard’s Rock and into more college locker rooms than I could’ve ever imagined.

But a story I’ll always tell happened somewhere in Orlando, Florida, far away from any stadium. I arrived at an apartment complex with Andrew Graham and Matt Liberman just before 11 p.m. Immediately we wondered why there was only one big bed in the middle of the room, flanked by different colored lights and a giant movie screen. We gawked at the giant film-esque light equipment in the corner and the collections of Lilo and Stitch

dolls. How strange?

We laughed it off, ordered pizza and enjoyed the massage chair in the corner. I still can’t believe we didn’t think twice about that damn chair.

I suppose that’s why the road trips weren’t as fun when I went alone. An old Days Inn in Tallahassee, Florida isn’t a good story when there’s no one else with you. It just smells musty and makes you wonder why you didn’t stay home.

On my final drive up I-81 North to Syracuse, the tears from years ago nearly came back. I had just handed Nick Alvarez off to his ride home and knew it would be my last time with a D.O. staffer.

An epidemic prevented me from closure, but I didn’t need it this time. I’d learned that when things enter the ether of uncertainty, our people will always be there. There’s always another team. Another purpose.

So I guess this is really all just to say thank you. Thank you to the people of 744 Ostrom Ave., not the place. You all didn’t just teach a freshman from Day Hall how to college, you taught me how to life.

— 30 — Josh Schafer was a senior staff writer at The Daily Orange, where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at jlschafe@syr.edu or on Twitter @Schafer_44.

Wasilewski: Hack reflects on years of being the girl in sports

M

y first few semesters working in-house, if anyone in the sports office said something remotely idiotic or made any kind of faux pas, they were sent on a lap, typically by the sports editor. Laps have since become a thing of the past. When I started in sports though, everyone was sent on a lap for one thing or another.

It took about a month KACI for me to take my first WASILEWSKI lap, and I guarantee I TOO MUCH made some brilliantly PUN terrible puns during that month that were completely lap worthy. But, it took a slip of the tongue, a use of the magic word we, to finally get the staff to send me around the house for the first time. The thing is, it was that punishment that finally made me feel a part of the sports staff.

The thing is, for my first three years at The Daily Orange, my most consistent title was the girl in sports. New people would come into the office and introductions would go around. Someone would slip that phrase in when introducing me. It was my badge and I wore it every day. It’s pretty self-explanatory, no other girl stayed like I did. Many would make fleeting appearances, get a byline, an

introduction at Sunday meetings and then be gone. So it was just me.

Second semester freshman year was the first time I remember someone calling me the girl in sports. I was walking into Newhouse and someone stopped me and asked if I was that girl. I remember feeling proud. I was the girl who did what many before me didn’t. I stuck around and kept writing despite a completely male section.

That feeling of pride’s worn off. Every time that phrase was used it was a reminder that one of us was not like the others.

That for me to know, enjoy and understand sports was some kind of undaunted feat.

For everyone else in that office it was a given. I was a member of the sports staff.

Except I wasn’t, not quite. I was the girl on the sports staff.

Maybe I was paranoid, but my first month working as a copy editor in-house I thought I was disrupting whatever perfectly crafted, male-dominated ecosystem I thought the sports office was. I was the only girl I had ever seen spend any kind of work-related time in that room. I was scared they would resent me for being there, that I was encroaching on some testosterone-laced haven.

I feared the rest of the staff wouldn’t take my sports knowledge as seriously. I spent all of high school throwing people off with

my sports-related takes. I was concerned that the sports staff would see me the same way. More importantly, I was terrified that I wouldn’t know the name of an athlete or a specific rule and then, instead of being seen as a member of the sports staff, I would perpetuate the stereotype that girls don’t know as much as guys about sports. I didn’t want to set myself back, to lessen any respect I might have in the eyes of everyone in the sports office.

I remember the first major copy edit I made to a big story. The story was for lacrosse guide, which meant it went through three or four people and one round of copy editing before it got to me. So, when I saw it said a defender would guard the opposing team’s top defender, I was confused. The sentence made no sense to me. But the story had already gone through how many people and no one caught the error, so maybe it was right. I texted my dad and my brother asking if it made sense. Both said no. So after worrying about that one edit for longer than I care to admit, I texted the writer a full paragraph explaining why I thought it was wrong. He told me I was right and I changed it. The whole time I was worried that if I was wrong, the rest of the sports staff wouldn’t respect me in the same way.

The thing is though, I don’t think I really was the girl in sports to the sports staff, at

least most of the time. I was the one who wore dresses and occasionally made them listen to Taylor Swift and enjoyed the idea of completely defacing the 744 ceiling. I know now that those guys have my back; I have their respect. They spent the past few years enduring my fantastic puns, brilliant ideas and the occasional rant. At the end of the day, I wouldn’t have wanted to be the girl in any other office.

I hope that title dies, the girl in sports. I hope that women with an appreciation for sports aren’t singled out, made to feel alien.

I hope for the future of women in sports.

It shouldn’t be seen as some great achievement for a woman to be working in sports media. The women I know in this field are incredible, capable people and deserve to be respected as such. And the future is looking up.

While I’m leaving, two women are taking my place. Two women will be in the sports office late at night next semester.

They won’t be the girls in sports, but women working in the sports section. And I am so damn proud.

— 30 — Kaci Wasilewski was a senior staff writer at The Daily Orange, where her column will no longer appear. She can be reached at klwasile@syr.edu or on Twitter at @Kaci_Waz.

18 april 27, 2020

dailyorange.com

Casey Tissue asst. video editor fall 2019 • video editor spring 2020

The brilliance of The Daily Orange is in the people who make it up: Anna: My duck would be tragically incomplete without a shout-out to you! I owe you a big thank you because you’re the one who informed me about the asst. video editor position in the first place! Thanks for showing me the ropes and providing wonderful advice, insight and examples of quality storytelling.

Camryn: What a year it’s been! I’ve enjoyed working alongside you ever since our start at The D.O., even when we had to figure out how to make drinks and snacks for Snapchat!

You’re talented in your field and an amazing human being. I wish you the best for the rest of your time at ‘Cuse and beyond!

Rachel: I’m so happy you joined the team this semester, and I’m so sad our time working together got cut short! Your creative eye, kindness and dependability inspire me. I hope you enjoyed your time at The D.O., and I look forward to seeing the incredible work you do in the future!

Haley & Leffert: Thank you for welcoming me to The D.O. family so warmly! You’ve led The D.O. with such wisdom, thoughtfulness, care, resilience and professionalism. Your ability to value and encourage others inspires me and has most definitely left a positive impact.

Amy: Once you were a Digital Czar and now you are the Pulp Czar. I don’t know what kind of czar you’ll be next, but I do know you’ll be amazing at it. Thank you for your kindness and for being so open to collaborate with me!

You’re an inspiration.

Casey: It’s been such a pleasure both working and sharing a name with you! Your legacy will last forever, because AutoFill will always suggest “Casey Darnell” when I type my own name into an online form.

Emma: Your professionalism and dedication

inspire me. You coordinate so many compelling and important stories with such excellence and organization. It’s been great working with you this semester!

Casey & Emma: Shoutout for your incredible work in leading News through this eventful year! The D.O.’s future is in good hands.

Corey: Your photography skills blow my mind. This year, you’ve created stunning works of art (your photos) every day while leading a large team of photographers, and I think that’s incredible. The D.O. would not be the same without you!

Brittany: You are a lovely human being. I enjoyed our time as headeds together and am thankful for your stops by the Digital Corner.

Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! I’m going to miss you, and I hope we can hang out if you stop by for a visit!

Danny: Thanks for being such an awesome collaborator and helping come up with innovative ideas for videos! I enjoyed learning more about the Sports section by working on projects with you and your team.

Talia: You are one of the sweetest people I have ever met. You’re also one of the most talented people I’ve ever met. Your design sense amazes me. Thanks for letting me hang in Visuals, the most zen but also most lit room of them all.

Nick: Way to jump into The D.O. experience so early in your college career! Your dedication toward and care for the Op section are consistently evident. I wish you the best leading Op next year.

Lizzie Kauma: My Digital Corner buddy!

You’re immensely talented and just an allaround wonderful person. I admire your friendliness and wisdom about life n’at, ya know? Can’t wait until we can hang aht dahntahn someday!

Elizabeth Billman: Your photos are beauti-

ful and tell amazing stories. You’re also so professional and organized. I enjoyed hanging out with you in Visuals this semester!

Sarah Lee: I’m glad we got the opportunity to meet and work on some projects together this semester. Thanks for helping out with Video!

I’m grateful for your kindness and inspired by your talent.

Mandy: You are so genuinely kind and amazingly talented. I loved working with you on the drum circle story. Your ability to capture the event so vividly and thoughtfully left me in awe.

Emily: You are one of those people who feels like a friend from the moment you start talking to them. I can’t wait to pull up my Instagram feed in the coming years and see more of your amazing photos!

Rori: I’m so glad I got the chance to meet you! You’re a joy to be around, and it was a pleasure working with you on your amazing documentary. And thank you for the epic Nutmobile footage!

Kaci: Thank you for the excellent videos you produced this semester! I admire your

distinct stylistic choices and vision for your stories. You’re also so chill to work with and fun to talk to.

Kevin: Thanks for being so welcoming during my first semester in Digital! You and Amy did incredible work, including those super fun snaps.

Sydney: Thank you so much for that epic Zipcar journey to Hope Cafe! I enjoyed getting to know you and am impressed by the excellent work you’re doing so early in your college career.

Susan: It was great to meet and talk with you at the beginning of this semester! You jumped right into The D.O. community and created some really cool content.

Austin: I cannot thank you enough for checking literally every single video title, description and transcription! Video couldn’t have survived without you.

The Digital Corner: I spent more hours with you than anywhere else. I’ll miss your emerald green cushions, creepy wall lamps and venetian blinds — so cinematic. You have no door, but you will always have a special place in my heart.

New York Public Interest Research Group NYPIRG Announces

REFUNDS

Students on this campus voted to support a NYPIRG chapter. Like other clubs and organizations on campus, NYPIRG is funded through the mandatory student activity fee. Unlike any other club or organization, NYPIRG offers a refund of the portion of the student activity fee earmarked for NYPIRG in case any student does not wish to contribute.

The New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) is New York State's largest student-directed non-partisan research and advocacy organization. Students involved with NYPIRG’s 16 college campus chapters across New York State become educated and energized participants on campus and in their surrounding communities.

NYPIRG students learn event planning, problem solving, debate skills, research, and writing by organizing and engaging in meaningful issue based campaigns. NYPIRG provides an arena for students to actively engage in civics while learning how to make a difference.

To request a refund or for further information please contact: Kevin Dugan Syracuse University/ESF NYPIRG Chapter 732 South Crouse Avenue, Floor 2 (315) 476-8381, kdugan@nypirg.org Refund Amount: three dollars per student for the spring semester :ast day to request a refund for the spring semester: May 6th, 2020

Your Student Activity Fee

april 27, 2020 19

dailyorange.com sports@dailyorange.com

Graham: A lost Hack remembers finding his way once before

I

n the second episode of HBO’s “Band of Brothers,” two U.S. paratroopers convene in the dark woods of northern France on June 6, 1944. From different units in the wrong drop zone, all they wanted to do amid Armageddon was find their units.

“I think we’re lost, sir,” Private Hall says to Lieutenant Winters. The officer replies, “We’re not lost, Private. We’re ANDREW in Normandy.”

GRAHAM That, I think, capTA K E A LA P tures how I’ve been feeling recently — about lifeturned-unrecognizable, finishing college and this phase of my life, while trying in earnest to map out what the hell comes next. I sit here, in my childhood bedroom taking online classes while applying for jobs that might not exist tomorrow, all while trying to rationalize that in the last six weeks the world as I know it went on hold. I’m here, somewhere in space and time,

totally unfamiliar. I’m unsure where to go.

But I’ve felt this way before.

It’s March 2018. I’m a sophomore. I’m sports editor at The D.O. and I’m not even 20 yet. I’m also on the brink of academic suspension from Syracuse for a year. My depression and anxiety peaked in ways they never have before — I got stress hives. Eventually, I got notice I was suspended.

On a Tuesday I sat at my desk in my South Campus apartment, weeping to my parents.

That Friday, I was sitting across from my dad at Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on our way home from the airport. I felt like a failure.

I was lost.

As we finished our sandwiches in the relatively empty upstairs dining room, we talked.

What we talked about stays with me and my dad. Suffice to say, though, it grounded me and helped me recognize that even though I was beyond what I thought was rock bottom, life will keep going no matter what I do or don’t do.

I have all the support in the world, but it was incumbent on me to fix my problems.

Fortunately, a path presented itself to me.

I appealed my suspension via letter and won — it was a hell of a letter. I was coming back to school for my junior year, but I had a thin line to walk. I needed to do well in school to prove to SU that I was capable, that my sophomore year was a blip, not a regression to the mean. I needed to prove that to myself too.

I started covering football for The D.O. my junior year, Syracuse’s magical 10-3 season, highlighted by a bowl trip and a W-I-L-D day at Clemson in October 2018. I discovered what my dream job was.

I fell in love and still am — hi, Emma!

I learned not to be so hard-headed and that dealing properly with my anxiety and depression were not just things that made me feel better, but made it possible to live the life I wanted.

That day in March 2018, on the phone with my parents, is the lowest I’ve ever been. I hope it stays that way. From that day, I spent two years climbing out of my self-created hole. And this March, as my 22nd birthday approached, I truly felt I was finally back

in control of my kingdom. That maybe, just maybe, life would work out.

But at home for spring break, I found myself crying into Emma’s shoulder. She knows the story I just told you. And that day, as I wept again, it felt, and still feels, like the last two years of finding myself and my way were now for nothing.

I managed to get my degree, but for what? I learned what my dream job is and from where I sit today, I struggle to see how it will materialize.

Now? I don’t know. I’m incredibly fortunate.

But I sit here and I can’t seem to escape my own shroud of pointlessness. It truly feels like my life to this point has been for… I don’t know.

I’m lost.

But I’ve managed to find my way once before. Who’s to say I won’t do it again?

— 30 — Andrew Graham was a senior staff writer for The Daily Orange where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at aegraham@syr.edu and on Twitter @A_E_Graham

Black: Hack reflects on up-and-down relationship with journalism

I

was crying because I was done with journalism. It was freshman year, and I was on the phone with my parents. “I’m done,” I told them, my face so covered with tears that I was getting my phone screen wet. “I don’t want to do it anymore.”

Walking back from The Daily Orange in February 2017, I determined journalism wasn’t what I thought it was. I’d just finished ERIC BLACK my first in-person read, THE N EW of a story about a men’s FAST club hockey player, with Matthew Gutierrez, a terrifyingly smart sophomore at the time. He tore my story apart. The thousand-word masterpiece that I submitted had been chopped down to a mere 200 words, and I was sent back out for more reporting.

Freshman-year Eric was sensitive about his writing. He still is. So I came to what seemed like the logical decision: get frustrated about it, cry to my parents and quit.

As I turned the corner of Ostrom Avenue

and Euclid Avenue and headed toward Sadler Hall, my freshman-year dorm, they tried to calm me down. I was just getting started, they said. Give it a chance, they said.

I dismissed them. That’s what parents have to say. I kept crying, shielding my face from passersby. By the time I got back, eyes red and irritated, there was no doubt in my mind.

I didn’t know what journalism was as a freshman. I think I do now.

Journalism is writing staff report upon staff report for track and field and filling in on tennis coverage when needed. It’s coming to Syracuse early sophomore year to cover women’s volleyball, a sport I’d never watched, with David Schneidman, a kid I’d never met.

Journalism is covering the women’s ice hockey team. Media ops every week. Games every weekend in an absolute igloo of an arena that ensured that every single one of your fingers and toes would be numb by the time the game ended. Then the walk from Tennity Ice Pavilion to Goldstein Student Center to write, which meant treks through blizzards.

Journalism is cathartic. My aunt died at the end of April my sophomore year, the day

before I had my first-ever sit-down interview.

I figured if I ever wanted to be a legitimate journalist, I’d have to be good at sit-down interviews. So I did it. And for 30 minutes out of a weekend in which I thought my world was ending, everything seemed okay.

Journalism is going to work every day with dozens of your friends and classmates, all juggling their own responsibilities, all dealing with their own personal issues, all working to put together a newspaper.

Journalism is spending time with your best friends. Even if they’re loud and obnoxious and sometimes even smell. Even if they try to explain lacrosse to you as if they know everything about the sport and you don’t, which wasn’t the case. Even if, while driving somewhere on I-81 in the middle of Virginia, they crack the window.

Journalism is being scared to death that every time you open your mouth to ask a question, you’ll stutter or say something wrong.

It’s being so nervous you’ll mess up that sometimes, you don’t even ask your question.

Journalism has been the constant during the past decade of my life, for better or

worse. It’s why I came to Syracuse, it’s why I considered leaving as a freshman and it’s why I stayed.

This past fall, I covered Syracuse’s last football game of the season, a thrilling 39-30 overtime win over Wake Forest. Since I wouldn’t be on a beat in the spring, it was my last-ever coverage for The D.O. And I was covering it by myself, which meant two game stories, which meant staying in the Carrier Dome for hours after the game ended.

By the time I left the stadium, it was already 8 p.m. And as I pushed myself out the air-lock doors, I cried. I full-on sobbed. And for a few minutes, I didn’t know why. I figured it had just been a long day, but that normally wouldn’t do it.

I was crying because I was done with journalism. For good this time. And I’m really going to miss it.

— 30 — Eric Black was a senior staff writer at The Daily Orange, where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at erblack@syr.edu or on Twitter at @esblack34.

McCleary: Hack believed in himself when it made no sense to

M

INEOLA, N.Y. — My role had become far too embarrassing to just sit around. It was my senior year of high school, the season-opener of my varsity basketball season, and there I was — still in that same spot on the bench I’d occupied the past year.

As a junior, life as a benchwarmer didn’t suck: We could joke around without fear of MICHAEL MCCLEARY embarrassing ourselves BIG FIRST DAY in the game. But being the senior benchwarmer wasn’t as funny. My coach still didn’t like me, and I was convinced it was for some other reason than my basketball skills.

Perhaps that’s why I was so excited when I heard my name called midway through the first quarter. “Mike!” my coach yelled. I popped from my chair. Why was I going into the game? I had no freakin’ clue. But perhaps my coach had adopted my way of thinking.

I looked to my right and met my coach’s eye, to see who he wanted me to take out of the game.

But when he looked over his eyes widened. The buzzer at the scorer’s table blared. The referee ushered me into the game. Only then I realized what I had done and my coach knew he couldn’t stop me. The “Mike” he wanted to get the attention of wasn’t me, but another player. Who was already on the court. So began the most embarrassing 12 seconds of my life, as I ran from end to end twice, fouled an opposing player and plodded back to my seat on the bench.

My nightmare probably isn’t the same as yours, but then again, maybe it is. Believing in yourself takes courage, and sometimes it backfires. We all have experienced situations where we were wrong about ourselves. We have times — like when I thought I went from layup line rebounder to team savior — we were publicly wrong, too. It’s called being naive, and that’s part of being young.

When I came to SU, I was dead set on becoming a journalist. Yet my career hadn’t gotten off to quite the scorching start I projected in the

bubble of my own mind. It took me months to get a story, no one came to me with big ideas to work on or cared about my opinions when I thought I came up with some of my own. I implied to my friends that people just “keep kicking dirt in my face.” They laughed at me, and I deserved it.

Some truths have to be learned. This story doesn’t end with me rising above my high school coach’s expectations and venturing to the NBA. But being wrong about my ability as a journalist was perhaps the only reason I stuck with it. And for that reason, I was wrong a few more times: that I couldn’t make friends, that I couldn’t fall in love, that my experience couldn’t possibly get better.

Keeping blind faith through early failures at The D.O. helped me improve, and now three years later I’m writing a final column many probably expected I wouldn’t. Everyone needs someone who can be a supportive voice for them, and perhaps we can start with ourselves.

It took me a while to clear that night in senior year of high school out of my mind, the night I felt like more of a loser than ever. As we headed

into the halftime locker room, I was mortified and felt some sort of impulsion to apologize to the kid I took out of the game. Then a teammate approached me wearing a mischievous grin.

“My man,” he said and offered his hand in joking congratulation. He hadn’t played, either.

“Maybe I should be like McCleary. Check myself into the game.” The team laughed.

Yeah, I thought. This is funny. And maybe I could even pretend it was cool. Like... I went for it. I got in the game and my coach didn’t even have a say. It wasn’t the last time believing in myself embarrassed me, but I always learned something new.

And, the next time my coach called for “Mike,” I remembered what I probably should have in that embarrassing moment: They called me “McCleary.”

— 30 — Michael McCleary was a senior staff writer for The Daily Orange, where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at mmcclear@syr.edu and on Twitter @mikejmccleary.

Bannon: Hack reminisces on short time south of the border

I

’ll try to keep this as short as my time here. I wasn’t going to write this at all — most of you will spend as many years inhouse as I have months. But, when I look back at my time south of the border, I’ll remember The Daily Orange as much as any class or degree. I might as well take this opportunity to say thank you.

Thank you to my parents for pushing me to apply to Syracuse University in the first place, and for pushing me in general.

Thank you to my summer IA, Tyler, who

MITCHELL BANNON

ONE AND DONE

first told me “the place” to get a clip was The D.O. and inspiring my first goal in July. Thank you to KJ for giving me a shot and helping me turn a clip into a beat. And thanks to Haley and Leff for trusting me to turn that shot into an in-house position.

I’m grateful to have been in the presence of the work-ethic machine that is Andrew Crane and honored to be around for Danny Emerman’s lowest moment: the day his dog got traded.

Thank you both for welcoming me into the house and editing out my extra Us and double Ls. Thanks to my beat partners — Will, Gaurav, Aro and Crane — for covering P.J. Flanagan and, like, two lacrosse games with me.

Thanks to everyone I worked in-house with and to the paper in general for allowing me to write a few stories I actually thought mattered

for the first time. I think I nudged the rock.

I had only a few short months here — I could’ve kept my head down, got a degree and moved back to the Great White North — but I’m glad I chose to make the 25-minute walk across campus four nights a week.

— 30 — Mitchell Bannon was an assistant sports editor for The Daily Orange, where his column will no longer appear. He can be reached at mbannon@syr.edu and on Twitter @MitchBannon

20 april 27, 2020

dailyorange.com

Corey Henry photo editor fall 2019 - spring 2020

I’m definitely crying as I write this. I’m not the best with words, but I’ll try my best to describe how thankful I am for everyone I’ve met at The Daily Orange so far. After two semesters, I feel that The D.O. has become a true home away from home for me. I attach a lot of moments from my time in-house with music, so I paired everyone with a song. Here we go!

Ally: The belief you have in me is what pushes me to be a better photographer and person.

Whenever you’re around I instantly feel more calm, and I feel more motivated and inspired.

You always know what to say when I’m full of self-doubt or indecision. You have taught me so much in such a small amount of time, and I’m so thankful. The amount of love you have shown me and those around you means the world, and I’m so lucky to call you my mentor.

— “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves Molly and Dan: Thank you both for believing in me enough to take on such an important role. When you both brought up to me the prospect of being photo editor, I thought you were both crazy. I didn’t think I could take on the role going into my sophomore year, but you two believed in me and that motivated me to give it my all. Thank you so much. — “Band on the Run” by Wings Diana: I missed you so much in the spring because you made me feel really comfortable being in-house. You are so welcoming and encouraging, and I missed your presence, your laugh and your photos more than you know! — “Calabria 2008” by Enur feat. Natasja Kevin: Every time you showed me what you were working on, be it for The D.O. or otherwise, I wanted to cry because of how amazing and beautiful everything you make is! I really miss our jam sessions in the old visuals room.

— “My Favorite Part” by Mac Miller feat. Ariana Grande Amy: You are so encouraging and kind, and I feel so lucky and grateful that I was able to

work with and learn from you these past two semesters! You are immensely talented and dedicated, and I’ll never forget that one night where “Stickwitu” came on and we were all just vibing in the old visuals room. — “Stickwitu” by The Pussycat Dolls Casey: I remember at one of our first headed meetings during the fall semester I was so nervous because I didn’t really know anyone that worked in-house yet, but you brought up dogs and really made me feel like I was already a part of the house. Thank you for being so kind, hilarious, and welcoming! — “Fair Game” by Dayglow Emma: My fashion icon - I hope to reach your level of fashion one day! The amount of care and effort you put into everything you do is something I really admire, and I am so excited to see what you and Casey accomplish next year! Thank you for letting me pull you into photoshoots around the house, and I hope there will be more to come! — “Whipped Cream” by Ari Lennox Danny: Thank you for being such a chill sports boy and having what seemed like an unlimited amount of patience. You always bring fun wherever you go, and Sports selects were always a blast. — “New Light” by John Mayer KJ: I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss yelling at you from across the house at 744. Thank you for always hyping me up, and you’re always welcome at the Henry household. — “Tadow”

by Masego and KFJ Chris C.: We’ll definitely have to fight over the title of D.O.’s resident music expert. I’m so excited to see everything you accomplish next semester! You’re gonna kill it! (Also, watch the most recent season of Love Island already.) — “King Kunta” by Kendrick Lamar Gabe and Nat: You two always make me smile! You’ve both definitely caught me on bad days but have always managed to brighten them and make me feel so much better! Thank

you both for being you! — “Best Friend” by Rex Orange County Haley and Leff: I feel like at this point in the duck I’m indebted to everyone, but especially you two. You both made me feel so welcome and confident about taking on such a large role on staff. You both are hilarious, caring and really inspiring. Thank you so much for everything! — “Schuyler Sisters” by Lin-Manuel Miranda Nabeeha, Katie M, Shannon, Emily S, and Katie G: I cannot express how happy you all make me, I legitimately cannot. Each of you are so wonderful to be around, and each time any of you walk into the visuals room I have to shout your names because you all make me that excited to see you! — “Guilty Conscience” by 070 Shake Everyone in house: I seriously was really close to making my duck just a list of names because everyone is so important to me.

Thank you all for the wonderful memories! — “Where’d All the Time Go?” by Dr. Dog Sarah L.: I’m so incredibly grateful I was

able to work with you this semester. You are so committed and caring, and you bring so much light and happiness into every room you walk into. Thank you for being such an incredible light and friend. — “Stay” by The Aces Talia: I’ve told you this many times, and I’ll repeat it many more: I could not have done this job without you by my side. The amount of love you bring into the house everyday always made me feel like I belonged and that I was right where I needed to be. Thank you for everything. (If I could put heart emojis in my duck, I’d put a thousand!) — “The Sea” by Joey Pecoraro Elizabeth: Another person I could not have done this job without. Elizabeth, I owe you so much mac n’ cheese and oreos! You have done so much for me and have kept me so calm and collected throughout these two semesters. I really don’t know where I would be without you. Thank you for being such an amazing friend and roommate! — “Burnin’ Up” by The Jonas Brothers Thank you everyone, and I love you all!

Elizabeth Billman asst. photo editor fall 2019 - spring 2020

I’m incredibly thankful for the work I’ve done and the opportunities I’ve had at my time at The D.O., but the people I’ve met are who I’m most thankful for.

We all know I’m not a words person, but here goes: Molly: It’s all thanks to you that The D.O. was on my radar in the first place. Thanks for texting me about photos daily, and I’m so sorry I didn’t take more opportunities, but you got my foot in the door and now I’m writing a duck, so it’s thanks to you. Thank you for your constant support.

Talia: The visuals mom, thank you for your constant support and for dealing with my never-ending, nagging questions. You’re incredibly talented in everything you do, and you created a visuals department that fostered creativity and friendship. You were an incredible PD, and I know you’re going to do amazing things in the future even though I will miss you so much. You’re incredible.

Kevin: Your smile and happy attitude always puts me in a good mood. Thanks for constantly being the hype man for my photos.

Sarah A.: My Philly girl, please continue to be the life of the party and keep up the hard work.

Roshan: You have real talent, kid, and I can’t wait to see what you continue to do. Sorry I won’t be there to find a photo for you every five minutes, but I think you can survive without me.

Sarah, Chris and Maggie: You freshmen walked into a crazy year for journalism at The D.O. and handled it so well. You’e prepared now for everything that comes at you, and I thank you for your patience and dedication.

KJ and Gabe: I don’t care what anyone says.

You both are real photographers. Thanks for filling both the house and the Slack channel

with noise and laughter. Also, thanks for being fans of my photos.

Aro: Thanks for always crashing visuals even after you ducked. No matter how dumb your jokes are, they still make me laugh. And if it makes you happy, you can still tell people that I’m your best friend, though Corey and Sarah may take issue with that.

Dab: Thanks for fighting me about everything under the sun (the dress was blue and black) and constantly telling me how crappy my high school was. Thanks for contributing to the sports boy noise and laughter.

Danny: Thanks for my new favorite nickname, Chillman. So sorry your time as sports editor got cut short, but you did an amazing job while you could.

Crane: You’re going to do so well as sports editor, and I’m so excited for you. It’s always a great day to work with you in the sports realm, and don’t worry, I’ll continue to feed you mediocre sports photos even if I’m not in

house. Looking forward to great things from sports next semester.

The visuals team: Thanks for filling every night with laughter and music and making a new building feel like a lived-in home. We are the heart of the house and have finally overtaken sports. Don’t let them take it back.

Emma and Casey: You both survived a semester each as news editor during an eventful year at The D.O. and did so calm and collected. I have no doubt that you will both run an excellent paper, and I’m so proud of the both of you. Thank you for your constant support. Emma, you will always be the best dressed at The D.O., and Casey, I hope beary never leaves your side.

Nabeeha: I’m so darn proud of you. You’re going to do so well as PD, and I can’t wait to see the wonderful things you do with the paper next semester. I’m going to miss laughing so hard we can’t breathe about stupid things in the visuals room or your comments in overheard.

I will 100% come to visit, and Corey and I will wave outside our window across the street.

Emily: We could always count on you for literally anything — photos, designs, a smile — and that is why you are going to be an insanely good photo editor. I am so proud of you and can’t wait to see what you do #queenofoverheard.

Haley and Leff: The staff wouldn’t have run nearly as smoothly without the two of you.

Through a year of trying events, you both stayed calm, collected and willing to help anyone in any way. You are kindhearted souls who can always be counted on, and I know the whole staff is thankful for that.

Sarah: I’m so proud of you, my dude. I’m so sorry that your first semester got cut short, but I know you’re absolutely going to kill it next year, and Emily is lucky to have you. I’m so proud of your growth in photography in the last year, and I can’t wait to see what you do.

I’ll always be there for you if you need me, but you are so capable and are going to do so much more than I ever did. You’re amazing,dude.

Corey: My roommate, my personality twin, my partner in crime. I can’t thank you enough for encouraging me to join this family. I can’t imagine anyone better to have worked with through this long, difficult and confusing year. You’re insanely reliable, wicked with a spreadsheet and one of the most genuinely kind humans I have ever known. You gave everything you had to this paper. (I have proof of that as your roommate). You put together a cohesive team that worked so well together through the ups and the huge downs of this year. You made your mark on this paper, and I will never know how to thank you for making me a part of that. I think we left behind a great chapter. Thank you for everything. Love you, dude.

april. 27, 2020 21

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from page 24

forgiveness Muhammad said.

Harrell sees SU as a microcosm of the United States; its problems weren’t — and aren’t — unique. For everything Syracuse took from Harrell in 1970, he believes it gave him just as much: Two degrees, a wife and unbreakable bonds with the teammates he boycotted alongside.

Man, I love Syracuse.

The boycott was something we felt we had to do what was right to try to make things better. But we love Syracuse.

Alif Muhammed

syracuse 8 member

Though SU did not properly recognize the Syracuse 8 until 2006, Harrell and the other members “bleed orange” as much as any alumni. Many of them wear Syracuse gear and root for the Orange, send their children or grandchildren to SU and are still involved with the university.

“It is a contradiction,” said Clarence McGill, who for years planned on never returning to campus. “But what happened here was a reality that all of us wouldn’t have been successful without that scholarship that was given to us

by Ben Schwartzwalder.”

In 2005, at the triennial Coming Back Together reunion for Black and Latino alumni, some Syracuse 8 members led a workshop and retold their story. In attendance was Hall of Famer and former Syracuse football star Art Monk, who graduated in 1980. He’d never heard of the Syracuse 8.

“So, when we told the story then, and hearing Art say that he didn’t know that happened here, that tells you exactly what occurred,” John Lobon said. “Nobody knew what happened because that’s how far it got buried.”

The reunion was the first step in uncovering their previously hidden history. Nancy Cantor, then the university’s chancellor, attended the reunion that year and had previously read about the Syracuse 8. She said then that SU should find a way to apologize.

One year later, it did. Every member of the Syracuse 8, except John Godbolt, walked onto the Carrier Dome turf at halftime of a late October game and received their letterman jacket for the first time. Cantor presented them a formal apology and the Chancellor’s Medal — the university’s highest honor. Jim Brown spoke, calling it “one of the greatest nights I have been involved in.”

“It was a beautiful experience,” Ron Womack said. “I will never forget that. It helped mend some of the pain. It almost was like we felt validated, that we did belong to Syracuse … We went from troublemakers to heroes.”

The university’s apology healed the scars left by the “hurtful chapter” of their boycott and SU’s subsequent neglect, Womack said.

To this day, Womack wears his graduation ring, which has a picture of a football player on one side and his major, education, on the other. He shows it off to his students in Minnesota while passing on the lessons of the

1970 boycott.

Since 2006, the Syracuse 8 has been chronicled in David Marc’s book “Leveling the Playing Field: The Story of the Syracuse 8,” published by Syracuse University Press, in SU’s 150th anniversary book “Forever Orange” and in a Carrier Dome display.

The Syracuse 8 view their boycott as a renaissance, a return to SU’s founders’ mission of inclusion and opportunity for all, and they’re still trying to make SU better. In 2011, the Syracuse 8 started and endowed a scholarship fund for first-year Black or Latino students who’ve exhibited leadership skills and participated in community service during high school.

So, when we told the story then, and hearing Art say that he didn’t know that happened here, that tells you exactly what occurred. Nobody knew what happened because that’s how far it got buried.

John Lobon

syracuse 8 member

They consider their 1970 boycott a “catalyst” for social justice initiatives and increased diversity in the student body, administration and faculty, Greg Allen said. In fall 2020,

they’ll be honored once again for the 50th anniversary at the 13th Coming Back Together. As of now, the reunion is still on despite the spread of COVID-19, and the Syracuse 8 will host a panel to retell their story.

“Man, I love Syracuse,” Muhammad said.

“The boycott was something we felt we had to do what was right to try to make things better.

But we love Syracuse.”

Eight of the nine boycotters graduated from SU, and four went on to earn master’s degrees. Allen serves on the Board of Visitors of Syracuse’s School of Education and wants his granddaughter to attend SU — as does Lobon. Womack completed the coursework for a Syracuse Ph.D. but never finished his dissertation, and Harrell went to SU’s law school.

As Harrell’s children grew up, they’d get irritated with him because he’d bring them to Syracuse’s campus so frequently — you can only see Marshall Street and the Carrier Dome so many times. Even before Harrell fielded questions about his time at Syracuse, he strategically asked when this series would run, fearing a story might distract the team from spring practice or the upcoming season.

“I am so committed to Syracuse. I just want to make sure everything’s positive for this team,” he said on Aug. 14.

They love a program that, for decades, wanted nothing to do with them. They give back to the school that stole their opportunities, college experiences and freedom. They became scholars when institutional racism took away their athletic careers.

For as much of their story is one of sacrifice, it’s also one of forgiveness.

In memory of Duane Walker (1949-2010), John Godbolt (1949-2012), and Richard Bulls (1951-2010). dremerma@syr.edu | @DannyEmerman

CLASSIFIEDS photo illustration by talia trackim presentation director photos courtesy of syracuse 8 collection, special collections research center, syracuse university libraries

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from page 24

legacy And it also includes Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to run in the Boston Marathon, who was pursuing a master’s degree at SU during the Syracuse 8’s boycott. Switzer called the Syracuse 8’s legacy “wonderful” but empathizes that they were forced to give up their prime as athletes and fight for the greater good.

“Athletes have a particular role,” Alif Muhammad said. “I mean, people look up to athletes — always have and always will.”

In 1968, about a year after Ali was arrested for draft evasion, Allen came to Syracuse to be the next great Black running back, following in the footsteps of Jim Brown, Ernie Davis and Floyd Little. He and his Black teammates enrolled to play football and get an education, not to join the growing list of athletes seeking change.

But they quickly learned that Syracuse wasn’t immune to widespread racism. The day Allen arrived at the airport in Syracuse as a freshman, one of the first things Schwartzwalder told him was that he couldn’t date white girls. It was a rule Schwartzwalder had for all his Black players.

Eventually, Allen and his Black teammates followed outspoken athletes like Ali by making four demands to the athletic department. They did it at a time when American universities were “on fire” with Vietnam War and civil rights protests, Harrell and Ron Womack said.

First, they demanded improved medical care for every player, regardless of race. The team physician, Dr. William E. Pelow, was a practicing gynecologist who had repeatedly operated on players’ healthy body parts instead of injured ones. “(Pelow) said he hated touching Black people,” McGill said.

At one point after Womack complained about a lack of playing time, Pelow — likely at from page 24

#notagainsu the Barnes Center at The Arch for eight days last November. That group, #NotAgainSU, as well as several others at SU since 1970, risked punishment to stand up for their beliefs.

Though members of the Syracuse 8 acknowledge that the university has improved drastically since 1970 and praised the administration’s condemnation of racism, they see parallels in the themes of their boycott and #NotAgainSU. “It was like a flashback,” Lobon said. They’re saddened by the uptick in hatred in the Syracuse community and fear their ever-relevant story has gotten lost in time.

“People call us, call me, and go ‘Man, what’s going on with Syracuse?’” Clarence McGill said. “I say, ‘Well, does this verify what we were talking about 50 years ago?’”

Like the Syracuse 8, #NotAgainSU presented the university with demands and faced criticism while seeking to make Syracuse safer for underrepresented people. #NotAgainSU’s movement, according to its original mission statement, aims to change “systems of oppression that are upheld and protected” by SU’s administration, mirroring the Syracuse 8’s fight against institutional racism.

Both the Syracuse 8 and #NotAgainSU organizers fought for inclusivity but encountered broken promises, which fractured trust in the administration. When Syracuse temporarily suspended #NotAgainSU protesters in February, the movement retweeted a post comparing the situation to the Syracuse 8. #NotAgainSU’s demands included a revised curriculum to address modern diversity issues, mandatory diversity training for faculty and more counselors that represent marginalized identities on campus. The Syracuse 8 fought for equality in athletics and an integrated coaching staff. Some members were also involved in other causes, like establishing a Black student union and a Black studies program.

“Hate ain’t dead,” Lobon said. “It just raised its ugly head again. What you have to have is right-minded people understand that you know what, we can’t keep going through these things because what it’s going to do is create chaos and misunderstandings.”

Athlete activism expert and former Syracuse men’s basketball star Etan Thomas visited #NotAgainSU’s occupation of Crouse-Hinds in February. He recognized the similarities between their movement and the Syracuse 8.

Both fought for causes that “should’ve been in place already,” Thomas wrote in an email.

Several current Syracuse athletes

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the direction of Schwartzwalder, Womack said — altered the nose tackle’s treatment so drastically that he was ruled medically ineligible.

Since Womack was sidelined in 1970, local media at the time didn’t include him as a boycotter and named the group the Syracuse 8.

They also asked for the same academic resources as their white teammates and improved educational access for athletes overall. As freshmen, players had assistant coaches serving as academic advisers, and Allen, a biology major, wasn’t allowed to take his mandatory labs because they interfered with practice. Syracuse 8 members often wrote down their classes in pencil to get approved by their “advisers” but then later changed them to more relevant courses. They also said the same access to tutors as their white teammates wasn’t available.

The last two demands aimed to break down unfair quota systems and to integrate the coaching staff so Black players could have someone to relate to. At the time, Syracuse and several other teams followed unspoken rules about how many Black players could play at once, and at which positions. The Syracuse 8 wanted playing time based on merit, not skin color.

“The Syracuse 8 took action and risks on behalf of themselves in a way that was designed to benefit others. Did they succeed?

Look at the things they were asking for in 1970,” Brown wrote in the foreword to David Marc’s 2015 book titled “Leveling the Playing Field: The Story of the Syracuse 8.”

After the boycott, Brown visited campus over the summer to try to help the two sides find a compromise. He confirmed the racism within the program, but recommended the boycotters rejoin the team. Ultimately, Schwartzwalder wouldn’t reinstate them for the 1970 season.

By skipping spring practices, the Syracuse 8 were suspended from the team and continued their boycott for the entire 1970

season. Schwartzwalder later used his connections to prevent any Syracuse 8 member from playing professionally.

An independent report by a special investigative committee published in December of 1970 called the suspension of the Syracuse 8 “an act of institutional racism unworthy of a great university.” The 38-page document also declared that racism in SU’s athletic department was “real, chronic, largely unintentional, and sustained and complicated unwittingly by many modes of behavior common in American athletics and long-standing at Syracuse University.”

Since the boycott, the NCAA has implemented regulations for higher academic and medical standards. There are no more quota systems. Syracuse hired Carlmon Jones in the summer of 1970, becoming one of the first integrated college football coaching staffs. Since then, Black coaches at every level have won championships, and the NFL has instituted the Rooney Rule that requires teams to interview diverse coaching candidates.

At Syracuse today, the 1970 boycotters see Dino Babers, the first Black head coach in program history, as a product of their protest and a part of their story. Babers, who declined to be interviewed for this series, is one of 14 active Black head coaches in the 130-program FBS, the top level of college football.

“We don’t talk in terms of success and failure,” Harrell said. “I talk in terms of progress.

Evolutionary progress.”

The Syracuse 8 have also noticed how “athlete advocacy has ebbed and flowed” through periods of relative inactivity from prominent athletes, Harrell said. He pointed to Michael Jordan, who avoided commenting on social issues to build his brand, as an example of a lull in high-profile athlete activism. Jordan “didn’t have to fight” to play

at North Carolina, Harrell said, because the Syracuse 8 and other movements won equal rights to play.

They’ve seen contracts for professional athletes skyrocket and the subsequent risks of standing up for their beliefs increase. “Today, if athletes protest, they’re the exception to the rule,” McGill said.

Still, sports and politics have continued to intersect, from the 1980 Olympics boycott and Ashe’s AIDS demonstration to kneeling during the national anthem.

“The Syracuse 8 were just as impactful during that period of time, in that era, as Colin Kaepernick is now,” Allen said. “I think (we) did set the stage for activism for athletes, that you’re not just an athlete in this closed society, you know. You have to understand your impact on the world and use your celebrity — like a LeBron James — to make change. To make this world a better place, period, for everybody.”

As protests in sports continued through the years, so has backlash. For the Syracuse 8, it was hate mail calling them “dumb,” “lazy” and “N-words.” More recently, athletes receive criticism for standing up at all — an idea that’s been tested on multiple occasions recently at SU. They’re just athletes, some say. After James discussed politics in a 2018 interview, one conservative pundit said he should “shut up and dribble.”

It comes back to the same question of identity the Syracuse 8 faced in 1970. “Because you’re in sports doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice,” John Lobon said. The First Amendment doesn’t afford rights to athletes any more or less than anyone else, Allen said. The Syracuse 8’s role in the “continuum” of sports activism, as one member put it, helped set an example for athletes to speak up for those who can’t.

“I think if you’re an athlete, it’s more incumbent on you to speak out,” Allen said.

joined #NotAgainSU in their own way last November. Players showed support on social media, SU’s men’s basketball players wore #NotAgainSU warmup shirts and some football players participated in the Barnes Center sit-in. Football players who stayed silent during the Theta Tau incident in 2018 couldn’t stay on the sidelines any longer.

“This was the same 50 years ago: Those young men being athletes is secondary to them being Black men,” Dana Harrell said. “They have a voice as Black men whether they were piano players, football players, scientists, whatever they are. This is an issue that they have to address as Black men.”

When Harrell arrived on campus as a freshman in 1968, there were roughly 75 students of color at SU. As of fall 2019, 48.1% of Syracuse’s student body identifies as people of color or international students, according to the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. Out of Syracuse’s 23 peer institutions, it has the 15th-highest campus ethnic diversity index as of fall 2018, per US News.

“We still have issues today,” Harrell said.

“We still have challenges. Black people still have challenges. Athletics still have challenges. America still has challenges. Football still has challenges. But the hope is to strive … we’re always striving for that more perfect union, aren’t we? We ain’t never going to get there.

But you gotta keep striving.”

In the summer the Syracuse 8 boycotted, 68 white players staged a counter-boycott and opposed reinstatement of the Black players.

They signed a petition in full support of head coach Ben Schwartzwalder, who divided the team and labeled the Syracuse 8 as troublemakers. Joe Ehrmann, one of the white leaders on the 1970 team, vehemently opposed the boycott at the time but has since admitted he was wrong.

With #NotAgainSU, many students and faculty have expressed support on social media or by joining protests, but some have called the movement’s lack of respect for authority dangerous and said both the organizers and the administration have handled controversies irresponsibly. In January, Syracuse briefly denied organizers access to food and necessities outside Crouse-Hinds.

While occupying Crouse-Hinds one month later, #NotAgainSU added a demand that would include the Syracuse 8’s story — as well as the Black Panther protests, THE General Body and Recognize Us — in the SEM 100 curriculum.

It’s an idea that Syracuse 8 members approve of. History repeats itself, and the Syracuse 8 believe people, specifically athletes,

can learn from their boycott. Can learn from the actions of Schwartzwalder, who called players racial slurs, directed medical malpractice, favored less-skilled white players on the depth chart and pitted players against each other based on the color of their skin.

In recent years, some Orange football coaches have been more eager to involve the Syracuse 8 with their teams than others.

McGill, whom Harrell tabbed the group’s “Dino Babers liaison,” has only spoken to SU’s current coach a handful of times in passing. McGill, Lobon and Allen were supposed to meet with Babers last winter, but a snowstorm interfered. The meeting hasn’t been rescheduled.

“Those young ball players that are on the team now, and the Black athletes at Syracuse University in general, they don’t know about

the Syracuse 8,” McGill said. “And they need to know. Everybody in the university, including white people and other people of color, need to (know the history).”

After an early March practice in the Clifford J. Ensley Athletic Center, two miles from Crouse-Hinds, sophomore wide receiver Taj Harris’s eyes rose up from his shoes.

He follows the #NotAgainSU movement on social media and retweeted SU Athletics’ statement expressing support in November.

But the Syracuse 8? “Never even heard of it,” Harris said.

Later that day, like after any practice, Harris and his teammates exited the Ensley Center and walked right past a larger-than-life bronze statue of the winningest coach in SU football history: Ben Schwartzwalder.

dremerma@syr.edu | @DannyEmerman

dremerma@syr.edu | @DannyEmerman

photo illustration by talia trackim presentation director photos courtesy of syracuse 8 collection, special collections research center, syracuse university libraries

dailyorange.com sports@dailyorange.com

Danny Emerman

april 27, 2020 2 3

asst. sports editor fall 2019 • sports editor spring 2020 I never struggle with word counts, so this is a first for me.

Crane: You’re the hardest-working person I’ve ever met. It’s absurd and almost to a fault.

This semester, it quickly became clear that I wouldn’t be able to teach you much in terms of journalism, so I hope you picked up a few things “off the field.” Definitely memorize those Mario lyrics. They’ll come in handy someday. In the meantime, I’m certain The D.O.’s in good hands. Just live a little, kid.

Beers on me when the Bills win the AFC East.

KJ: Suh, dude? Your life’s weird, so I don’t know where you’re reading this right now, but I want you to know that I’m super lucky to have you as one of my best friends.

You like to think of that time I invited you to Faegan’s with my dad as when we became friends. I know it was long before that. Probably when we were talking NBA or something.

Doesn’t matter.

Through everything, you’ve always been so supportive and helpful as my editor, my senior staffer and my boy.

Mitch: Mitchy Mac Pitch. Mitchy B Reads.

Mitchy Mistakes. Mitchy Tearing Up As He Reads This. I’m so glad we had you in-house last semester. You were a huge help and brought great ideas. You’re a great writer, and I can’t wait to read you in the real world. Say hello to the wife for me, eh?

Haley: This year, you dealt with more day-today bullsh*t than I previously thought existed.

It’s bananas how underappreciated it can go.

You took it all like a champ and always had an answer. You’ve become one of my closest friends. Didn’t expect that when I took the job, but I also didn’t anticipate such levels of steez.

Now we’ll finally get to enjoy those D.O. Fridays.

Leff: You taking your senior year to be ME was bold, and you killed it. And you didn’t take any

sh*t in the process. I sure hope you and Haley aren’t the last bright, flexible, understanding, fair, compassionate and legendary editors I have. What you guys did this year was incredible, and, of course, strictly business.

Casey and Emma: You’ve got big shoes to fill, and I know you’ll do great. You’re both ready for this. I’d bet Dabbundo’s life on it.

Dabbundo: Working with you was one of my favorite parts of the fall. Can’t wait to be on not one but TWO (shocking that) beats with you next year.

Hillman: Every time Crane tells me he misses Ange, I think of you (happens more than you’d think). Shout-out the UConn trip and your photog skills. You’re a firework.

Roshan: You’re already a stud, and you’re just scratching the surface of what you can do. If you ever need girl advice, let me know.

Gaurav: You’re already a really, really good reporter, whether you realize it or not. You were a great asset to have in-house this semester, and I hope you continue to grind like I know you can.

Tim: We might not agree on everything, but

Eric Black

From Freshman to Graduate…From Sadler to Euclid Avenue… From Newhouse School to Daily Orange…From Women’s Basketball to Men’s Football…And through threepeat wins of Media Cup…Your journey at Syracuse University has accelerated your development as a writer, and has further revealed your compassion, intelligence, and thoughtfulness that we have always known and loved…And this is ONLY just the beginning!!

The future is YOURS to write!

CONGRATULATIONS ERIC!!!!

WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Mom, Dad, Adam, Jacob, Belle, Chip, and Sasha

I love debating with you (sometimes). One thing’s clear: your work ethic is undeniable.

That’ll take you wherever you want to go.

Josh: Remember when we met at Kubal after I didn’t get asst. copy? Feels like ages ago. Who knows where I’d be now if you didn’t feel like meeting me for coffee that day. Thank you for that, thank you for being one of the first people at The D.O. who really believed in me, and thank you for being a great friend. I’ll always look up to you, as a writer and a person. I wish we had more time to hang, but hey, that’s life.

4tr: For my first ever read, I met you in Mike’s 744 office, and you told me you’d worked for The Ringer. It was that exact moment that I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be. You’ve always been such a great inspiration and an even better guy.

Guti: I’ll never forget driving 14 hours to OSU to go see about a girl (that’s a story for another day, kids). Your guidance during and after you were at school has been so huge for me, you have no idea.

OG: I think it’s hilarious that you think I’m cool. Ironic, even. I don’t do anything cool. I don’t write a FOIL a day. I don’t volunteer to

help and teach the entire staff about reporting.

I don’t run toward news when we get strange tips (except that one time, when I did with you).

I don’t investigate life-or-death issues. That’s what I think is cool. That’s why you’re the man.

Talia: You once asked me if we’re still going to be friends after we duck. Come on, now. That’s ludicrous. I don’t think I’ve ever met a nicer human. You’re so talented and incredibly humble. I loved every second of working with you, and can’t wait for plenty of kickbacks.

Schneid: I’m glad I got to be a part of your best D.O. roadtrip. It was pretty awesome.

Keep in touch. I mean it, legend.

Nick, Michael: I’ve learned so much from both of you. You’re two of the most talented reporters and editors I know. So I tried to teach you both one thing this semester. If you don’t know what it is, then I failed. I’m excited to see the damage you do in the real world.

Billy, Graham, Liberman: You probably don’t remember this, but one of my first stories was about field hockey. I went to ops as a baby reporter. You guys drove me back to campus, and taught me not to say “we” when referring to SU Athletics. Big lesson.

Skyler, Allie, Cameron, Will, Eli: I believe in each and every one of you. It’s been so awesome seeing you grow this year. Y’all got next.

Gabe: You don’t burn, bro. Rocket power, baby.

214 Clarendon: My boys. I’m so glad KJ brought us all together. We’re real bros. Truly.

‘It’s Cool to Be Nice,’ Poop, Ben, Aidan, Yanay, Tome, Connor and AEPi: I love you all very much. You’re my biggest fans. Knowing you’re always there for me — with or without a loaded Rona — kept me sane. I’ll have way more time to hang/chill/visit/talk now, I promise.

Mom, Dad, Sam (and Mookie): Love you so much. Thank you for all your support. KJ says you’re the best parents ever, and I wholeheartedly agree times 100.

Congratulations! We are proud of you and wish you all the Best!

Love, Uncle Ronnie & Aunt Marie “We want to wish hearty congratulations to Eric Black, our brilliant and talented nephew. He has a keen knack for capturing sporting events and turning them into exciting and entertaining stories (even for the less avid sports fan). It’s truly a unique gift. When we get through this difficult period, we will all celebrate Eric and his accomplishments.”

Love Aunt Jackie and Uncle Stuart

S

SYRACUSE 8 SERIES

S PORTS

dailyorange.com @dailyorange april 27, 2020 • PAG E 24

photo illustration by talia trackim presentation director photos courtesy of syracuse 8 collection, special collections research center, syracuse university libraries

Syracuse 8 reflect on recent campus protests

By Danny Emerman sports editor

B

efore boycotting spring practice in 1970, the nine Black members of Syracuse’s football team considered the risks. They could lose their scholarships, get kicked off the team or fuel more division in an already tense campus.

Greg Allen had to weigh taking a stand for his own principles against ignoring them for his childhood dream: a legitimate shot at the NFL. John Lobon decided protesting was necessary because “nobody should ever have to go through this again.”

Individual reasons varied, but in the end, the Syracuse 8 chose to jeopardize their present and future to boycott what an independent committee deemed “chronic racism” within the athletic department.

“It’s like the words of Martin Luther King: Anytime is the right time to do what’s right,” Alif Muhammad said.

Fifty years later, that time came again. SU students faced similar uncertainties. Dozens of students occupied Crouse-Hinds Hall for 31 days, protesting the university’s response to hate incidents in the community after demonstrating in see #notagainsu page 22

Setting the stage

Fifty years ago, nine Syracuse football players boycotted spring practices because their demands — playing time based on merit rather than skin color, adequate medical care, equal academic support and coaching staff integration — weren’t being met by the athletic department and head coach Ben Schwartzwalder. This three-part series tells the stories of the following scholar athletes who risked their futures for what was right: Dana Harrell, John Lobon, Richard Bulls, Duane Walker, John Godbolt, Ron Womack, Clarence McGill, Greg Allen and Alif Muhammad.

By Danny Emerman sports editor

A

cross from Ben Schwartzwalder in the head coach’s Manley Field House office, Greg Allen took a seat.

“What’s this I hear about you and this Black sh*t?” Allen remembers Schwartzwalder asking him.

Two days earlier, Allen had joined a group that advocated for the implementation of a Black studies program at Syracuse University.

“You’ve got a decision to make,” Schwartzwalder told Allen in February of 1969. “You can be Black, or you can be a football player.”

Allen didn’t see how one would interfere with the other. “I’ll be Black all my life, and I’ll only be a football player for a certain amount of time,” he told his coach.

For Allen and his eight other Black teammates, the decision to boycott spring practice one year later was about their principles, about making Syracuse more inclusive for everyone. After months of their demands being largely ignored,

they walked off the field together. Often painted in the media at the time as dissidents, none of the Syracuse 8 returned to the team in full capacity, and they’d be blackballed from the NFL. The discrimination the Syracuse 8 endured at SU tested their identities as both athletes and human beings, something marginalized athletes still face today. The Syracuse 8’s boycott 50 years ago wasn’t the first instance of athlete advocacy in America, but they see their impact embodied in the progress made in sports and in the evolution of activism since.

“We’re part of a whole mosaic,” Dana Harrell, a Syracuse 8 member, said.

That timeline of athlete activism features Jack Johnson, the Black heavyweight champion during the Jim Crow Era, Clarence McGill said.

It includes Muhammad Ali, who resisted the Vietnam War due to his religion in 1966, and Arthur Ashe, the only Black man to win three Grand Slam singles titles.

see legacy page 22

Syracuse 8’s forgiveness defines their legacy

By Danny Emerman sports editor

D

ana Harrell’s voice cracked as he addressed a rise of hatred in his alma mater’s community. At that point, Syracuse had been hit with six reported hate incidents in nine days.

Seven more were reported in the next five days, including five more that evening, on Nov. 16.

Students have protested Syracuse University’s response to what grew to be at least 32 hate incidents on and around campus. Harrell, though, was “proud” of SU for wrestling with the issue of racism.

“Syracuse University does not condone racism,” Harrell said.

“They do not condone it. They do not ignore racism.”

Fifty years ago, it was Harrell who was provoked by his white teammates wielding a garden hose in a racist altercation, who had to change his natural position because quarterback was deemed a “thinking position,” who filed multiple complaints against head coach Ben Schwartzwalder to the Onondaga County Human Rights Commission.

What hurt possibly even more than any injustice the Syracuse 8 collectively experienced was the feeling of being “written out of history” for more than three decades, they said.

It took 35 years for the university “to hear our side of the story,” Alif

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