Winter Guide 2023

Winter Guide 2023

N • Dissecting history

C • Minty magic

S • Passed over

During the three-day-long conference, attendees discussed the theology and legal theory of the ‘Doctrine of Discovery’

Just in time for the holidays, enjoythese no-bake sweet treats. Use this recipe to learn how to make a classic recipe.

Byrum Brown garnered little recruiting attention in high school.

But through his freshman season at USF, Brown has burst onto the scene after setting the program.

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about

INSIDE

The best quotes from sources in today’s paper.

NEWS “You can characterize this as activism, but I just see it as education.” - Phillip Arnold, core faculty member of Native American and Indigenous Studies Page 3 Editor@dailyorange.com News@dailyorange.com Opinion@dailyorange.com Culture@dailyorange.com Sports@dailyorange.com Digital@dailyorange.com Design@dailyorange.com Photo@dailyorang.com BUSINESS 315-443-2315

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“It definitely puts you in a very independent space and it makes you stronger, because, I mean, you’re on your own in a country.

It’s not something that I regret. It’s something that makes me stronger.” - Adriana Haydarova, Syracuse international student Page 7

OPINION “The idea that you will completely stop eating sweets in the new year is daunting. The finality and rigidity of the resolution destined it for failure.” - Maya Aguirre, Columnist Page 9

SPORTS

how to join us

“My parents said ‘whatever school gives you the opportunity, just go out there and make every other school in the country wish they offered you.’” - Byrum Brown South Florida quarterback Page 12

If you are a Syracuse University or SUNY-ESF student interested in contributing to The D.O. on either its advertising or editorial teams, please email editor@dailyorange.com.

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Noteworthy events this week.

The D.O. strives to be as accurate in our reporting as possible. Please email editor@dailyorange.com to report a correction.

WHAT: Yoga’lates WHEN: Dec. 17, 4 - 4:50 p.m.

WHERE: Barnes Center at The Arch, Studio 3

letter to the editor policy The D.O. prides itself as an outlet for community discussion. To learn more about our submission guidelines, please email opinion@dailyorange. com with your full name and affiliation within the Syracuse community. Please note letters should not include any personal information pertaining to other people unless it is relevant to the topic at hand. All letters will be edited for style and grammar.

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Dear Editors and Staffers of The Daily Orange: Wishing you a safe and relaxing winter break.

We hope you return in January refreshed and recharged to continue your important work as an independent student-run media outlet covering the campus community.

Happy Holidays from the Newhouse School!

WHAT: Horns and Harmonies WHEN: Dec. 17, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Hendricks Chapel, Main Chapel WHAT: Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion: Open Skate WHEN: Dec. 19, 12 - 8 p.m.

WHERE: Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion

dailyorange.com news@dailyorange.com

winter guide 2023 3

NEWS on campus

Syverud reaffirms priority of safety

By Claire Samstag asst. news editor

200

Over 200 years after the Supreme Court ruled in the M’Intosh decision, Syracuse University hosted conferences about the “Doctrine of Discovery.” maxine brackbill photo editor

years later

By Griffin Uribe Brown and Samantha Olander

O

the daily orange

ver 200 years after the United States Supreme Court’s Johnson v. Mclntosh decision, Syracuse University hosted a three-day-long conference exploring the historical and religious roots of white supremacy.

“The Religious Origins of White Supremacy: Johnson v. M’Intosh and the Doctrine of Christian Discovery” conference featured panels and presentations with leading experts on issues related to the “Doctrine of Discovery” from Friday to Sunday, including bishops and legal scholars, and featured Indigenous presentations.

The conference was sponsored by The Henry Luce Foundation, which awarded SU a three-year grant in Nov. 2021, alongside others including SU’s Religion Department, the Indigenous Values Initiative and the Neighbors of the Onondaga Nation.

Although this was the first time SU hosted the event, organizer Phillip Arnold said he has hosted events related to this topic for the last decade, noticing an increase in conversations regarding the Doctrine of Discovery.

“People are paying more and more attention to this issue,” Arnold, an associate professor in SU’s Religion department and core faculty member of Native American and Indigenous Studies, said. “I mean, 10 years ago, nobody was paying much attention. Not many people out of Indigenous peoples’ circles.”

In 1823, the Supreme Court declared that Indigenous tribes did not have the right to sell their land to individuals in the unanimous ruling of Johnson v. McIntosh. This ruling established that the British’s right to Indigenous lands was passed to the U.S., which had the exclusive right to negotiate with Indigenous people. The ruling states, “the Indians had no right of soil as sovereign, independent states” since “discovery is the foundation of title.”

The SCOTUS ruling was the legal introduction of documents originally published by the Catholic Church, called papal bulls, during the Age of Discovery. These documents, referred to now as the “Doctrine of Discovery,” stated that European colonial powers had the right to any land not inhabited by Christians, justifying European colonization, the seizure of land

SU holds conference on origins of white supremacy

across the world as well as the massacre and dispossession of Indigenous societies.

Examining the impacts of Johnson v.

McIntosh, Robert Miller, a professor of law at Arizona State University, said the case legitimized the European concept of “discovery” as a basis for claiming sovereignty over Indigenous lands. He also highlighted in his law panel the importance of looking at historical injustices toward Indigenous communities to understand their realities today, specifically citing a letter written by George Washington in 1783. “(George Washington) compared Indians to animals,” Miller said. “He called us animals, and we were being hunted by the United States.”

I mean, here in Syracuse, we’re on unceded Onondaga Nation territory, which means that essentially this is their land, but it has been seized illegally.

Philip Arnold conference organizer

In the U.S. and other countries where European colonists settled during the Age of Discovery, movements for the repudiation of the “Doctrine of Discovery” and the return of land to the Indigenous groups have gained traction. In March 2023, the Vatican followed other Christian denominations to repudiate it.

Arnold is also the founding director of the Skä·noñh—Great Law of Peace Center, which repurposed the site that formerly commemorated the Jesuits coming to Onondaga Nation Territory in the mid-1600s. The Skä·noñh Center has held similar events over the past decade, most recently online in 2020, but Arnold was ready to commit efforts and funds to move the conference to SU. “This time, we really wanted to make a big event,” Arnold said. “We just really outgrew the Skä·noñh Center. It’s not big enough for this.”

Over 300 people registered for the conference, Arnold said. Some panels were limited to those who registered and paid, while others were open to SU students and the public. Attendees at the conference included members of the Sámi peoples, the Māori people, a contingent from Brazil and members of Indigenous groups like the Haudenosaunee and Yakama Nation – all groups who have been historically affected by the McIntosh ruling.

Members of the Onondaga Nation were also present at the conference. The Onondaga Nation, like many other Indigenous peoples, has worked to get land back from New York state.

Ilianna Murphy, a junior at Simpson College who attended the conference, said her biggest takeaway is the importance of listening more to Indigenous people and recognizing the privilege of colonizers.

“Basically, a foundation of everything that we have is based on Christian documents, the document on Christian discovery,” Murphy said. “(We) should be realizing that we should give our lands back, that it wasn’t our land in the first place.”

The conference began Friday at the Skä·noñh Center. The evening featured a keynote by Steven Newcomb, a ShawneeLenape scholar and author focused on U.S. federal Indigenous law, and JoDe Goudy, a former chairman of the Yakama Nation.

Newcomb, the director of the Indigenous Law Institute, is a longtime advocate and scholar for Indigenous rights and conversations about the Doctrine of Discovery. He worked on Indigenous Peoples issues at the United Nations for 20 years and called on Pope Francis to discuss the Doctrine, which he calls the “Doctrine of Domination.”

Saturday’s schedule included a panel of bishops who discussed the religious history of the Doctrine, another on the religious origins of the Jan. 6 capitol attacks and a law panel reflecting on the 200th anniversary of McIntosh.

The law panel discussed Indigenous rights, colonial laws and historical legal decisions on Indigenous people, examining 200 years of the Johnson v. McIntosh decision and underscoring the long-lasting impacts of historical injustices and legal decisions against Indigenous communities. see conferences page 7

Chancellor Kent Syverud reaffirmed his commitment to keeping the university safe from physical violence and prioritized shared governance amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war at Wednesday’s University Senate meeting.

Syverud said other members of the USen have expressed concerns that the potential for violent threats will be co-opted as an excuse to erode free speech and academic freedom on campus. In response, he said he plans to work closely with campus stakeholders to develop an official statement addressing their concerns.

“For me, the safety of Syracuse University students must remain a top priority in all this,” Syverud said. “I think sometimes we must prioritize the safety of our community above academic freedom and free speech.”

Syverud said he has received several questions about what his definition of safety entails. He clarified that when he says “safety,” he is not talking about “being saved from disparate views, or being saved from uncomfortable perspectives or from language which some may disagree with or find objectionable,” but rather threats that have the potential to result in physical violence.

The time is right for continued dialogue here with all members of our community around academic freedom and free speech at Syracuse.

Gretchen Ritter provost

In October, SU officials canceled a teachin on Palestine due to safety concerns. Student organizers with the Africa Initiative — the group that planned the teach-in — took issue with the university’s handling of the event, which they said highlighted the university’s struggles with academic freedom.

“It is vital that all of us plan carefully and in advance to ensure free speech also occurs in a time, place and manner that takes into account the safety and security of our whole community,” Syverud and Provost Gretchen Ritter wrote in a campuswide email on Oct. 31 when announcing the event’s cancellation.

Universities across the United States are facing criticism over their responses to the Israel-Hamas war. Former University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill resigned following her responses at a congressional hearing on campus antisemitism. Harvard President Claudine Gay received similar pressure after her testimony but has been backed by the University’s highest governing body.

“What I’d say about all those concerns (from students, faculty, staff, and from alumni and trustees) is there isn’t much that everybody agrees on except that the belief that most universities have handled things really badly,” Syverud said.

In a campus-wide email Monday, Syverud addressed the national response to the congressional hearing on campus antisemitism featuring Magill and Gay. He stated in his email that advocating for the genocide of Jews would violate SU’s codes of conduct.

At the meeting, Ritter thanked members of the university community for their work protecting SU’s academic mission and the rights of its community members to express diverse viewpoints on controversial topics. see usen page 7

Ho

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l i d ay

Story by Olivia Boyer and Katie Pacini the daily orange

Photograph by Maxine Brackbill photo editor

Art Direction by Bridget Overby presentation director

A

s snow falls on Syracuse, celebrate the upcoming break with this holiday-themed treat. With finals around the corner, here’s a no-bake dessert that can be made in any kind of kitchen or even a dorm room.

Start by lining a square baking pan (suggested 8 x 8 or 9 x 9) with parchment paper. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles in the parchment paper so the peppermint bark ends up smooth on the bottom. For this step, you can also substitute aluminum foil or a lined baking sheet. Just make sure the chocolate won’t stick to the pan.

The next few steps create the layers of peppermint bark, consisting of melted dark and white chocolate. For these steps, you can either melt the chocolate on the stove or in the microwave. If using the microwave, be sure to warm up the chocolate in 20 second increments so the chocolate isn’t burned.

Start off by chopping the white chocolate, then take half (about 6 ounces) and put it into a heat proof bowl. Add ½ teaspoon of the oil of your choice into the mix. Every 20 seconds, stir the chocolate heartily with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon. Repeat these steps until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted.

Next, stir in ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract. Pour the chocolate into the pan and spread it to a thin, even layer. Let the first layer cool in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes.

In the meantime, take your bittersweet chocolate and oil in a heatproof bowl and repeat the melting process until smooth, adding ½ teaspoon of oil. Then, add in ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract and mix into the chocolate. Once the first layer is cooled, add the middle layer on top, smoothing until evenly distributed.

Let the middle layer cool for 10 to 15 minutes. While the first two layers are cooling, put the remaining white chocolate in a heat resistant bowl, add in the last ½ teaspoon of oil and repeat the melting process until smooth. Finally, distribute evenly over the other layers.

Take some candy canes, or peppermint candies, and place them into a Ziploc bag. Crush them using a rolling pin to roll them out or use a meat mallet to break them.

Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top of the final layer before putting them into the refrigerator to cool.

Give it about an hour to set, then take it out to break the bark into pieces of any size.

If left in the fridge for too long, the layers may separate, so allow the bark to set out of the refrigerator for 10 minutes. Once broken, the bark can be stored in the refrigerator for three weeks.

Grab a cup of hot chocolate and settle in by the fire to enjoy this sweet holiday treat. Let the sweet mix of peppermint and chocolate ring in the season and alleviate your finals stress. oliviaboyer@dailyorange.com

Bring these pepp back home

winter guide 2023 5

permint goodies e for break

nt

r e m ri-m i

Ingredients 12 oz. white chocolate 6 oz. bittersweet or dark chocolate 1 ½ teaspoons vegetable or coconut oil (Can substitute olive oil)

½ teaspoon peppermint extract 2 to 3 candy canes

(Can substitute around 20 peppermints)

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dailyorange.com news@dailyorange.com

city

Alexander Marion takes on new responsibilities as city auditor

By Faith Bolduc

asst. digital editor

Alexander Marion said he hates talking about himself, something he admitted is strange for someone who recently ran for public office.

“It’s the most anti-politician thing you can do, but I love being in this business. I love this work, because it’s about ideas. It’s not about myself. It’s about helping other people,” said Marion, who was elected as Syracuse’s auditor in November.

Working in communications roles in both the city and state government, Marion said his prior knowledge is a unique qualification that can be brought to the auditor position, which recently had its powers expanded in a city-wide vote.

“I think that because I’ve sat in both seats over the years, and have had both of those perspectives, that gives me a very unique eye into how local governments are run,” Marion said.

Raised in central New York, Marion was unsure if he wanted to pursue politics while growing up in Camillus, but was constantly immersed in it through his family’s involvement. His grandmother was chairperson for the Camillus Democrats and his mother worked in the state assembly before moving into the federal government.

Over time, Marion realized he wanted to follow in his family’s footsteps, though he said running for public office wasn’t a top priority.

“It just became the natural fit and what I just love doing,” Marion said. “I couldn’t see myself not doing something like this.”

Marion graduated from St. John’s University with a bachelor’s degree in government and politics in 2012 and served as a communications director for New York Assemblyman Michael Miller in the 38th Assembly District from February to May 2012. Later, Marion worked as a press secretary for former Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner’s office before getting a master’s degree in public administration at Baruch College.

He currently serves as the director of communications for New York state Senator and Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris. Marion said he will resign from his communications director job with Gianaris when he takes over as auditor next year, according to syracuse.com.

“I really enjoyed it. I’ve really enjoyed that kind of work. I kind of always envisioned myself doing something in public service.

And the opportunity to run came this year,” he said.

After the expansion of the city auditor’s power and abilities, Alexander Marion will tackle new responsibilities in his role.

courtesy of alexander marion

New York Democratic State Sen. Rachel May, who represents Syracuse, first met through his working for Senators like Gianaris. May said Marion’s data-oriented outlook and engagement with local politics helped his candidacy shine.

“It’s a hard thing to run for because most people have no idea what the city auditor does,” May said. “So part of it is a teaching role, which I think he did a good job at, explaining to people why it was important.”

The city auditor is responsible for examining city operations and conducting investigations to see where it can reduce costs and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the government.

In November, Syracuse voters approved a proposition expanding the auditor’s powers. In the position, Marion can now issue subpoenas and hire outside legal counsel, according to syracuse.com.

The Syracuse Common Council unanimously approved the proposal in April, but Mayor Ben Walsh vetoed it. In May, the Council overrode the veto, sending the measure to be placed in the general election ballot where it eventually passed.

Marion credits both Gianaris and Miner for teaching him that the work does not always have to focus on him, but rather on implementing ideas that make a big difference. Using his time in the

public sector, Marion said it was worth trying something new and different to see if he could do it.

“I really love the process of running for office, having a campaign that was my own and going out and meeting people, knocking on doors, talking to folks in their communities about what’s important to them — it’s been a wonderful experience so far,” he said.

Marion won in June against incumbent Nader Maroun in the Democratic primary for Syracuse city auditor. Maroun requested the proposed law to expand the auditor position after his experience in office, saying he had difficulties getting information from the Walsh administration.

One problem May discussed with Marion was the issue of parking fines and fees, and how parking tickets often fall more heavily on people who are least able to pay them.

“If you live in a neighborhood where everyone has off-street parking there, that’s probably a higher income neighborhood and they’re almost never going to get ticketed,” May said. “But, if you live in a neighborhood where very few people have a driveway, and if people are parked on both sides of the street, the city will get complaints.”

May said Marion could use his auditor position to examine differential ticketing — if tickets are being issued more prevalently in some areas versus

others — and the economic impact fines and fees have on people, depending on their ability to pay.

The Syracuse Police Department issued approximately $3.7 million in parking ticket fines in 2021 and 2022 — an 8.5% increase from 2018 and 2019.

Marion said parking is a prominent “quality of life” issue in Syracuse, as alternate-side parking can become dangerous in winter weather conditions. Yet, Marion said he is eager to push for equity in the city’s parking fines and ticketing systems.

Along with May, New York’s Working Families Party, a progressive political party founded in 1998, endorsed Marion.

Jordan Bellassai, the elections chair for the WFP in central New York, first became acquainted with Marion through the endorsement process. Bellassai said Marion is highly committed to his role as a public servant, and his open communication and accountability are why Bellassai was glad WFP chose to work with him.

“I found him really inspiring, and full of energy and really wanting to look at the role of auditor in a new way,” Bellassai said. “And I mean that by really slowing down and looking at the role of the job and wanting to give a lot of attention to detail.”

Bellassai said he thinks Marion’s traits and wealth of experience working in the Senate will only improve his work as auditor.

“Just the way that he approaches each part of his work and understanding that there is a possibility to do better, and constantly learning and growing, I think that’s the most valuable thing he’s going to bring to this position,” Bellasai said.

May said Marion’s prior experience adds to her confidence in his ability to bring new energy to his role.

“I think he has some insider perspective,” May said. “But I think that outsider perspective is really important for the city auditor because you really should be taking a fresh look at how things are, like ‘what constitutes business as usual in the city, and is it the best way to do things?’”

Marion said he is aware of his opportunity to act as a voice for diverse populations. Through making his work about successful ideas, Marion said it does not have to be his name on the letterhead to make a difference.

“Getting a good idea over the finish line that helps people’s lives and makes a difference is what matters most to me,” Marion said. “And that’s kind of how I’ve always approached everything.” flbolduc@syr.edu

on campus

‘Taste of Dialogue’ event fosters open religious discussion

By Julia Boehning asst. news editor

Hendricks Chapel Chaplains Imam Amir Durić and Rabbi Ethan Bair hosted around 30 Syracuse University faculty, staff and students in Bird Library to discuss the shared experiences of Jewish and Muslim communities.

At “Taste of Dialogue: Empathy and Ethics in Judaism and Islam,” attendees of several religious backgrounds had open discussions with the chaplains, highlighting the importance of empathy and solidarity within the core tenets of both religions.

Bair said he wanted to emphasize that the event was not about the “political situation” in the Middle East, referring to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Instead, he said the purpose of the discussion was to build understanding and connections between the two religions.

“This semester was a really hard time to be a Jew and to be a Muslim on all college campuses,” Bair said. “The purpose of tonight is really building a bridge between our two communities.”

He said Jewish students approached him this semester and expressed a desire to learn more about Islam to better understand the perspective of Muslim students on campus. He also said the talk will serve as a model for a new “JewishMuslim dialogue fellowship” — a four-part series of conversations featuring nine Jewish and nine Muslim student fellows starting next semester.

Throughout the talk, Bair and Durić presented topics that Bair said are “core to the Muslim and Jewish experience in the U.S.,” such as family stories surrounding immigration. They both shared their perspectives before opening the floor to attendees.

Durić, who immigrated from Bosnia in 2009, said he grew up in a community with several families who came to the U.S. during the Bosnian genocide. Though Durić wasn’t a refugee, growing up in the community inspired him to support those who experienced genocide, he said. He also described some instances where he felt discriminated against as a Muslim and an immigrant.

“I feel American, but there are times when people question that,” Durić said.

After asking a few introductory discussion questions, Bair and Durić transitioned into comparing Judaism and Islam’s respective religious texts: the Torah and the Quran.

They introduced four excerpts, two from each book, all dealing with themes of empathy. They contextualized the pieces before splitting attendees into groups, encouraging them to work with someone from a “different background” than their own.

“That’s the thing about empathy — it requires effort,” said Cornell Perry, a sophomore, during a breakout discussion. “There are always two sides to every story.”

Perry also said that although the discussion questions were “tough,” he believed they were crucial in establishing empathy and understanding on campus.

As discussions continued, attendees reviewed prewritten discussion topics that coincided with the content of the religious passages. Outside of the topics on the page, many attendees introduced themselves and shared their reasons for attending. ​​Dr. Zachary Braiterman, professor of religion and director of the Jewish studies program, said he attended the event after hearing about it from Bair. Braiterman said finding similarities between the Torah and Quran is a common trend in Jewish-Muslim discourse.

“They’re two communities who are drawn together by any number of reasons, some of them painful,” Braiterman said. “A lot of the painful stuff gets displaced by talking about texts.”

Braiterman said events like Wednesday’s are a valuable way to “humanize” groups during ongoing tension. “(Bair and Durić) really model how Jewish and Muslim relations should be. They’re just a great model for friendship, empathy and recognition,” Braiterman said. “We’re really lucky to have them here.”

After each text, the group reconvened, sharing what they talked about in their smaller discussions. Throughout the night, attend-

Hendricks Chapel chaplains, Imam Amir Duric and Rabbi Ethan Blair, highlighted empathy between Jewish and Muslim communities Wednesday. cassandra roshu photo editor

ees emphasized connections between Islam and Judaism, such as linguistic similarities between Arabic and Hebrew and shared stories between their respective religious texts.

Another student, Jada, a senior communication and rhetorical studies major who wished to be referred to by her first name , said she was inspired to attend the event because of the misinformation on social media regarding the recent conflict.

“I just wanted to make myself more knowledgeable,” she said during another breakout discussion.

“I thought it would be nice to actually hear from people that are part of these communities.”

At the end of the talk, attendees shared their personal takeaways from each text. Several students said they believed the event was a “refreshing” way to introduce these conversations on campus.

“I found it very enlightening,” said one attendee — a Muslim student who will serve as one of the Jewish-Muslim dialogue fellows next semester.

The student, who asked to remain anon-

ymous, said they decided to attend after Durić encouraged them to do so, as it would prepare them for the fellowship events next semester. They said they were glad the event allowed them to meet people from other communities on campus as well as “compare and contrast” their religion with Judaism.

“At the end of the day, we’re all students with curious minds,” the student said. “By engaging in these conversations, we’re actively lessening our ignorance and expanding our little bubble.”

Similar to the format of the “Taste of Dialogue” talk, future “Jewish-Muslim dialogue fellowship” events will review texts, foster relationships between communities and explore the connections between Judaism and Islam, Durić and Bair said.

“It’s going to be crucial for us to create spaces and opportunities like this one, to come together, because it’s easy to dismiss other people,” Durić said. “That will only be possible if we spend time and try to understand different perspectives.” jmboehni@syr.edu

winter guide 2023 7

dailyorange.com news@dailyorange.com

on campus

Students, faculty pray for global peace at 2nd interfaith vigil

By Ahna Fleming asst. news editor

Around 25 students and staff gathered together in prayer at an interfaith vigil hosted by Hendricks Chapel Wednesday night to promote world peace during war and violence around the world.

The vigil was the second interfaith vigil held on Syracuse University’s campus, following Hendricks’ first interfaith vigil for world peace on Oct. 25. Due to small numbers, wind and snow, attendees and chaplains gathered in a circle rather than using a formal podium arrangement.

“Here at Hendricks Chapel, one of our convictions is that human life is sacred, and one life taken is one life too many,” Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, said. “All of these religious and spiritual groups coming together is, at its core, recognizing the sacredness of life. So I think it’s important, even when it’s cold and windy, and mid-December, to come together and to be with each other.”

The ongoing Israel-Hamas and RussiaUkraine wars have caused immense suffering and stirred hatred around the world. After from page 3

conferences Colonial laws and legal concepts, such as the Johnson v. McIntosh decision and the “Doctrine of Discovery,” continue to impact Indigenous communities today, Miller said, providing a legal framework for the unequal treatment of Indigenous people and forced removal from their ancestral lands.

“I mean, here in Syracuse, we’re on unceded Onondaga Nation territory, which means that essentially this is their land, but it has been seized illegally,” Arnold said. “That’s never been resolved, so the land acknowledgment is great, but let’s do something about that.”

Dr. Beverly Jacobs, senior advisor to the president of the University of Windsor on Indigenous Relations and Outreach, argued during the law panel that colonial laws have historically aimed from page 3

usen

“The time is right for continued dialogue here with all members of our community around academic freedom and free speech at Syracuse, particularly in the context of legitimate concerns over physical safety,” Ritter said.

Ritter also expressed her gratitude to the Office of Academic Affairs for its panels and engagement opportunities on academic freedom, active listening and navigating polarizing discourses in the classroom. She said these panels will continue next semester and invited members of the Senate to share their thoughts on topics and formats.

Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel that killed more than 1,200 people, Israel began an offensive on Gaza. More than 17,000 people in Gaza have been killed since the initial attack, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.

Several U.S. college campuses, including SU, have experienced tensions due to rising antisemitism and islamophobia. Chancellor Kent Sy verud wrote in an email Monday that advocating for the genocide of Jewish people would violate SU’s code of conduct, addressing a Dec. 5 congressional hearing on campus antisemitism in which the presidents of Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania and Massachusetts Institute of Technology testified.

The United Nations, politicians and people across the world have called for world peace throughout 2023. Following a U.S. veto of a U.N. resolution demanding a ceasefire, hundreds of people marched through downtown Syracuse in support of Palestine Friday evening.

Despite U.S. opposition, the U.N. General Assembly approved a resolution Tuesday for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza.

“For me, world peace is the conditions that are necessary by which all people can thrive,” said Konkol, who opened and closed the vigil.

Other SU organizations have held vigils at Hendricks amid the Israel-Hamas war, including Syracuse Hillel and Chabad House Jewish Student Center’s vigil on Oct 11 and SU’s Muslim Student Association’s “Prayers for Peace” vigil on Oct. 18.

Konkol invited the group to participate in a moment of silence, concluded the moment with a prayer and invited other chaplains to step forward into the circle to offer prayers as they felt compelled.

Imam Amir Durić, chaplain and advisor of the MSA, recited two verses from the third chapter of the Quran.

“We are one humanity. We are one body, and if a part of us hurts the rest of the body aches,” he read, prompting a contemplative reaction from the group.

Rabbi Ethan Bair, chaplain and advisor of Hillel Jewish Student Union, stepped into the circle and offered a prayer for peace in the spirit on the seventh night of Hanukkah.

“One can only create peace in the world once one has mastered peace within oneself,” Bair said.

Sensei JoAnn Cooke, chaplain and advisor of the Buddhist Meditation Association, recited the Mettā Sutta and chanted “may all beings be free from suffering” in Pāli.

Following the prayers, attendees lit candles and stood in a moment of silence. The cold wind extinguished the candles as soon as they were lit.

“I’d ask that the light that is within you lasts much longer than the light that I have in my hand,” Konkol said.

As the Israel-Hamas war continues, so does the Russia-Ukraine war. More than 50 people, including six children, were injured Wednesday morning when Russia fired ballistic missiles at Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, according to The Washington Post.

Speakers at the vigil recognized that violence persists worldwide, and no part of humanity was excluded from their prayers.

“I’m a believer that hope is the conviction that what you do matters. It matters,” Konkol said. “A small group of people standing in a circle for 25 minutes praying and seeking peace changes the world. So we changed the world tonight.”

to erase Indigenous people and their rights to land through unchecked control.

“Domination and control actually equals violence against our people because violence is about control,” Jacobs said. “That’s what abuse is, domination and control, and really all the court decisions were confined to the laws of its country.”

Davíd Carrasco, a Mexican-American historian of religions and professor of the study of Latin America with a joint appointment with the Department of Anthropology at Harvard University, focused on how American history “erases” Indigenous stories. He reflected on the moment he realized his education had only taught him about the civilizations of the Greeks and Romans, and neglected the advanced society of the Aztecs.

Saturday evening concluded with a showing of “In the Court of the Conqueror,” a solo performance by George Emilio Sanchez in which he explores how the legal system

has “diminished the Tribal sovereignty” of Indigenous nations.

Sunday — the final day of the conference — featured SUNY ESF student presentations, a panel on federal anti-Indian law and the title panel of the conference: “The Religious Origins of White Supremacy: Johnson v. M’Intosh and the Doctrine of Christian Discovery,” featuring Betty Lyons, Oren Lyons, Robert P. Jones and Anthea Butler.

Butler, a professor of religion and chair of the University of Pennsylvania Department of Religious Studies, emphasized the importance of discussing the religious justifications of the enslavement of African people and conquest of Indigenous people.

“We cannot have this conversation about white supremacy without talking about the religious underpinnings of white supremacy,” Butler said.

Jones, the founder and president of the Public Religion Research Institute, talked about his research and how ingrained white supremacy is in American attitudes.

“We’re talking a lot about the court cases and how they and how the ‘Doctrine of Discovery’ enters into American law,” Jones said. “But one of the ways that it enters into American laws is that it’s already in American culture.”

A Māori performance and a traditional Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address concluded the three-day conference.

“You can characterize this as activism, but I just see it as education,” Arnold said.

“We saw a tremendous diversity of people at this conference. This is really diversity in action, and we’re all coming together around these issues.”

Senator Crystal Bartolovich, an associate professor in the English department in the College of Arts and Sciences, raised questions about how Sy verud will determine what constitutes advocacy of genocide in this new policy.

Bartolovich said she was surprised by the differences in Syverud and Cornell University’s President Martha Pollack’s responses to recent state pressure to undermine academic freedom and freedom of speech on New York campuses. “​​Over the past few days, a number of universities, including Cornell, have been asked by members of Congress to make clear their policies around genocide,” Pollack wrote in a

statement Saturday. “Genocide is abhorrent, and Cornell condemns calls for the genocide of any people. An explicit call for genocide, to kill all members of a group of people, would be a violation of our policies.”

Bartolovich said she wished Syverud and Pollack had been stronger in their defenses of academic freedom.

Syverud also announced proposed changes to the Senate’s bylaws, which members worked on over the previous week. The new bylaws will create an internal structure that will function more efficiently and incorporate more diverse perspectives in the Senate and its committees, Syverud said.

The new bylaws are part of the Senate’s

work to strengthen SU’s shared governance, which Syverud said is “vital” to the success of the university.

Syverud said the revised statement on academic freedom and free speech will be announced at the next USen meeting, which will be held in the spring semester.

“I think I’m going to let my statement stand for itself, which is that I do think we should expect that our community members should refuse to advocate for the death of a group of people based on their identity,” Syverud said.

arflemin@syr.edu

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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. NYPIRG offers a refund of the portion of the current student activity fee earmarked for NYPIRG to any undergraduate student who 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 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, public speaking 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 further information please contact: Chet Guenther Syracuse University/ESF NYPIRG Chapter cguenther@nypirg.org Undergraduate Refund Amount (Fall 2023): $3

csamstag@syr.edu

8 winter guide 2023

dailyorange.com

C

CULTURE

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winter guide 2023 9

adriana haydarova, Shrey Dewan, Rhea Lereya and Shrishti Saha (left to right). As winter break approaches, homesick students face long travel days and look forward to holiday traditions.

joe zhao asst. photo editor

Far from

By Kelly Matlock culture editor

R home As the semester draws to a close, international students travel far to return home

hea Lereya, an international student from Turkey, celebrates the holidays by visiting Christmas markets, malls, annual parties and family get-togethers. Most importantly, she spends time catching up on everything she missed while she was at Syracuse University.

“I took the risk of going to a very faraway place. All of (my friends) stayed there,” Lereya said. “I really started a new life here, so it’s really scary for me to go back and see what I missed out on or what they did while I was not there.”

For international students, going back home during winter break brings up a mix of emotions, said Meriel Stokoe and Juan M. Tavares, faculty from the SU Center for International Services. While some stay on campus, the majority of international students return home to celebrate holiday traditions with family.

Stokoe and Tavares are from Great Britain and the Dominican Republic, respectively, so they understand what it is like to be far away from family close to the holidays. To help students feel more connected to a community at the university, Stokoe and the SU Center for International Studies host events like crafting sessions, museum field trips and ice skating.

It is normal to be homesick as break approaches, and this feeling is exacerbated for international students, Stokoe said. Shrishti Saha, who is from India, said once everyone around her starts talking about going home, she starts thinking about home more and getting homesick.

“My wish is that domestic students check in with their international student friends,” Stokoe said. “That could be as grand as inviting them home for Christmas, or it could just be a text message. Just check in with them, so they don’t feel lonely.”

Every time Saha returns home after a semester, her mother either picks her up from the airport with a bouquet or leaves flowers as a surprise in her room. She can always count on coming back to tradition and familiarity.

“Syracuse is just so small compared to home, and I’m just so used to being surrounded by a lot of people who have a similar background to me,” Saha said. “(Going home) is a different sort of comfort – it’s people that share the same cultural background and history.”

Besides homesickness, winter break brings up a mix of emotions. Saha said it is a bittersweet combination of happiness, excitement, nervousness and more that she can’t even put words to.

For Lereya, her first semester at SU was “pretty tough,” adapting to a new language and a new culture. She wanted to return home frequently. see students page 11

from the stage

FADS’ ‘Dreamscapes’ celebrates surrealism, self-discovery

By Savannah Stewart asst. culture editor

Pre-show madness filled every corner of the Schine Underground — blaring house music, powder brushes falling into makeup bags and wispy tulle following the paths of models who practiced their confident struts in red MSCHF boots and glittering heels.

Syracuse University’s Fashion and Design Society held “Dreamscapes,” their first of two fashion shows this school year, on Saturday. “‘Dreamscapes’ is about giving fashion designers, set designers and everyone on all the teams a platform to take their own creativity into hand,” said Bella Young, an SU senior and FADS’s vice president.

“Dreamscapes” features 18 student designers pulling from the works of Italian fashion designer Elsa Schiapearelli, Spanish visual artist Salvador Dalí and other members of the surrealist movement. The show aimed to have a collection of “mind-bending

Six models wear Zoë Boise’s designs. 18 student designers “step into a world where the boundaries of reality blur and fashion transforms into a surreal dreamland.” cassandra roshu photo editor

designs” that “defy conventional expectations,” according to the organization’s Instagram.

FADS Creative Director Zoë Boise, a senior, said “Dreamscapes” isn’t straightforward. The theme allowed students to experiment with a series of design aesthetics, especially considering the many disciplines and perspectives of the designers. With surrealism, designers can take any element that’s not fashion and combine it with one unique and new, Boise said.

“Schiaparelli collaborated with Dalí in the past and her clothing has always been a little abnormal. She has shoes with toes painted on them and garments with giant lips. There are a lot of different pieces that stand out,” Boise said. “Dalí’s work shows how you can have that obscure, abstract feel in art.”

At Saturday’s show, 40 models traversed the runway. Each designer presented between two to five looks and experimented with themes such as time, nature and activism.

see fashion page 11

10 winter guide 2023

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screentime column

After 20 years, ‘Elf’ remains a classic holiday tradition

By Teddy Hudson

screentime columnist

There aren’t many films as purely happy as Jon Favreau’s 2003 hit “Elf.” The Christmas classic, which was released 20 years ago last month, has managed to endure for so long because of the maniacal playfulness at its core, which set it apart from the suburban, family-oriented holiday films of decades past.

“Elf” is technically still a story about a family, but an exceedingly weird one. It’s probably well known to most: a middle-aged Christmas elf named Buddy discovers he is a human being and travels to New York to find his real father. However, “Elf” shines best as a sugary fish-out-of-water comedy, like “Being There” meets “The Santa Clause.”

Will Ferrell, as Buddy, gives what is still his funniest and most essential screen performance. Buddy is the prototype for the boldly naive permanent-teenagers whom Ferrell would go on to play in films like “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” and “Step Brothers.”

Like those later characters, Buddy is obnoxious and hyperactive, but Ferrell gives him such a deep and undefended sweetness that his antics come across as charming. He approaches even the smallest tasks with breathless curiosity, from making breakfast to sorting mail.

Naturally, most other characters in the movie despise Buddy. His estranged father Walter, a high-strung publishing executive played by the late James Caan, is excited to learn he has an adult son before quickly writing him off as delusional. When Buddy tries to keep a job in the big city, he immediately comes to blows with his taskmaster boss. Even back in the North Pole, his adopted father Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) is exasperated by Buddy’s size and clumsiness.

This tension between cynicism and Buddy’s holiday joy is what makes “Elf” unique among other timeless Christmas movies. It is more urban and grounded than dramas like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “A Christmas Story,” but has the fantasy element of films like “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

This contrast creates obvious comedy — on more than one occasion, Buddy mistakes a fake

Santa for the real thing — but also moments that are legitimately moving, like Buddy’s expression of quiet wonder when he visits the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center.

Favreau went on to see enormous success as the director behind the first two “Iron Man” films, several of Disney’s live-action remakes and the Star Wars series “The Mandalorian.” The skills he would use to build those worlds, which all blend their fantasy with a sense of realism, began with “Elf.” The cultural impact of “Elf,” both on the Syracuse area and the country at large, is still felt today. In two decades, it has become a household name in the holiday genre — a 2022 YouGov survey found that more than two-thirds of Americans had seen “Elf” before.

To celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary, it was rereleased in select theaters worldwide in November. Recently, at the Landmark Theatre, Symphoria performed “Elf in Concert,” a onenight event that featured a theatrical screening of “Elf” accompanied by a live orchestral score.

More than anything else, though, “Elf” matters because it’s really, really funny. It has one of

the most efficient scripts of any Ferrell comedy, with lots of unexpectedly rich personal relationships and very few clunky jokes. The relationship between Buddy and Zooey Deschanel’s character Jovie, who he meets at a department store Christmas sale, gives crucial texture to Buddy’s character.

Without her, and without his evolving relationship with his father, stepmother and halfbrother, the movie would just be a joke factory held together by snappy costumes, like many of Ferrell’s later comedies. But Buddy’s highenergy shtick is always counterpunched by open, unapologetic sentimentality. This element makes the jokes that might otherwise get an eye roll, like Buddy stuffing his breakfast with chocolates and candy, suddenly endearing.

“Elf” is one of the best and most charming Christmas movies of all time, and its appeal has not diminished since it was released 20 years ago. Its unique plot, fantastic Ferrell performance and quotable lines from “I am a cottonheaded ninny muggins!” to “Not now, Arctic Puffin!” make it a must-see. ehudson@syr.edu

humor column

Our humor columnist’s advice to make this winter break memorable

By Sarah Wells

is your mom’s favorite food, again?” “Oh, maybe it was the war your grandfather fought in?”

If you’re like me, then you probably spend the entirety of winter break bored out of your mind.

It’s a lot of sitting around, sleeping and catching up on all the shows you didn’t have time to watch while you were busy with school.

However, with a little bit of creativity, you don’t have to spend all of the break staring at your ceiling. Here are a few boredom busters to make your winter break a little more entertaining.

3. Have a one-sided conversation with your dog

humor columnist

1. Start a meaningless fight with one of your siblings

This is one of my favorite things to do when I’m bored and feeling a little chaotic. As anyone who has a sibling knows, it’s not very hard to start an argument. My personal favorite argument starters include: “I bet I’m better at math than you” (I’m not), “Your breath smells like garbage,” and, last but not least, “You should really pop that pimple.” Arguing can be a great boredom buster and, if you’re persistent enough, one fight can entertain you for days on end.

2. Tell your parents you forgot the Netflix password

For the people who like to watch the world burn, here’s another suggestion. As the only one who knows the Netflix password in my household, I sometimes like to abuse my power. If you lie and tell your parents you forgot the password, you’ll create hours of countless fun while you watch your parents deliberate over what it could be. I like to get popcorn and watch them go over the countless password options. “Was it the name of your childhood dog or my childhood dog?” “What from page 9

students “I do not speak my own language when I’m here, so it was really confusing for me,” Lereya said. “And then I got pretty used to it. I have my friends now, I have a settled life … I don’t feel the need to cry. I don’t feel as homesick as I did.”

Now a sophomore, she is looking forward to the holiday break. She usually spends her time away from the university, sometimes traveling to Amsterdam and London. This year, she is excited to go home.

Vianca Sawant, from Mumbai, India, decided to attend college abroad because it was normal at her high school. With peers going to Australia, Europe or England, she chose a school in the United States because she liked the idea of being independent. from page 9

fashion Along with her role as the creative director, Boise was also one of the show’s designers. Her six looks revolved around “genderless wearable garments” and encapsulated the value she holds in making neutral clothes.

“It was a new and completely different experience,” said Camy Johnson, who modeled for Boise.

“Completely engaging because I had my best friend behind my design which means so much to me.”

Looks by other designers included a whimsical gown made by sophomore Mikah Bein, which was adorned with a faux greenery bodice and a silhouette of colorful sunflowers, hydrangeas and lillies.

One fact about me that will always be true: I love my dog. He’s just a friendly little guy with a heart of gold. If he could talk, we would have the best conversations. Even though this is impossible, I still like to attempt it. I tell him all of my problems and ask him how his day is going or if he’s been stressed out with his dog responsibilities. I know him so well that sometimes I even respond to him, saying, “My day is good, Sarah! I want treats!” He’s a grade-A conversationalist in my book.

4. Tiptoeing around your house in the middle of the night and pretending you’re the Grinch

Okay, this one may be a little bit obscure, but I think it’s a great time. Sometimes when I can’t sleep, I like to tiptoe around my house slyly, pretending that I’m trying to steal Christmas.

I’ll slither around on the floor, shake the presents underneath the tree and, if I’m feeling frisky, I may even take the stockings off of the wall for a few minutes. By the time I’m done with this fun activity, I’m all tired out and ready for bed!

Pretending to be the Grinch may not work for everyone, but boy, does it work for me.

flynn ledoux contributing illustrator

number of friends you’ve made since leaving high school.

Fun fact: I did not like high school very much.

So if you’re like me and looking to revisit a bleak four years, go back to visit! The second you step through those doors, you’ll realize that you have made a huge mistake, but

your old teacher has already spotted you, so it’s too late to turn back. As weird as it is to go back, it’s also a great way to burn time due to the lengthy “How are your classes?” conversations you get roped into. “They’re bad, Mrs. Smith. I barely passed my earth science final.” But since you can’t tell her that, you make up grand, elaborate lies about how much you love your classes and the vast

When Sawant comes home from SU, she is greeted at the airport by over 20 family members. Upon returning to India, she celebrates Hindu religious traditions like poojas, or ceremonial rituals, with her family.

“I wasn’t there for Diwali back home but all my cousins and my family met up,” Sawant said.

“When we go back home, I get to meet all my cousins and everybody that I didn’t see for a long time and just catch up. It feels much needed.”

Shrey Dewan grew up in Dubai and India, and also sees winter break as an opportunity to relax and learn about what his family and friends have been doing. Because of the nine hour time difference between Dubai and Syracuse, it’s sometimes impossible for Dewan to call his family every day.

“It’s just trying to squeeze in as much time as I can,” Dewan said. “It can be really stress-

ful … There are times where (I go) a few days without talking to them because they get busy, I get busy.”

For Adriana Haydarova, keeping in touch with family and old friends is difficult because her parents work for the United Nations, so they move to a different country every few years. She described it as having to start her life “from a blank page” whenever she moves.

Originally, Haydarova is from Uzbekistan, and she visits her parents in Belarus over break. The winter break is tough, she said, because of the amount of traveling she must go through to get home.

She gets homesick seeing parents pick up their children and drive to hometowns that are in neighboring East Coast states, while she has to take three flights and do 24 hours of traveling.

“It definitely puts you in a very independent space and it makes you stronger, because, I mean, you’re on your own in a country,” Haydarova said. “It’s not something that I regret. It’s something that makes me stronger.”

Like Haydarova, Lereya said being an international student has brought her unique challenges, but also growth. Living so far from home forces international students to get out of their comfort zones, she said.

“I believe that if you do not take risks in life, you’re not gonna succeed. And that’s what I did. I wanted to take a chance. I wanted to take the risk,” Lereya said. “I’m speaking in a language that I never thought I would speak in my daily life — and I’m doing it right now.”

Junior Nina Tran’s collection explored the Vietnamese diaspora, liberation and solidarity, according to her artist biography. One design of hers was an Ao Dai, a traditional Vietnamese garment, with the words “Free Palestine” stitched on the piece’s inner sleeves.

FADS President Leah Jones, a senior, said it was exciting to see how the student designers interpret and execute the vision of the show.

“We emphasize that you don’t only have to be a fashion design student to participate in FADS,” Jones said. “That’s something really special about it, that regardless of what you’re doing in school, people use FADS as an outlet for their passions.”

Dec. 9’s event was months in the making. At the start of each semester, Jones said FADS’s

social media team posts a model call to the organization’s Instagram.The model director, model coach and designer director then host a day when potential models can walk and share their interest in being a part of FADS. In a no-cut process, the modeling committee picks models for each designer whose work will be featured.

Young said the FADS E-Board chooses a theme that becomes the creative direction of the entire semester. Every graphic, poster, Instagram post and photoshoot revolve around the theme in some way.

“Social media is like our only kind of thing. We don’t publish magazines or anything but everybody works together to make sure everything looks cohesive,” said Addie

Jung, FADS’s head of social media and a senior at SU. While Boise said FADS has always organized and hosted fashion shows, they wanted to use “Dreamscapes” to grow the organization into something more professional. The result, Boise said, was a more elevated, high fashion show.

After the show, FADS members quickly embraced one another with hugs while supporters handed many of them congratulatory bouquets.

“My parents are also here, so I was just crying happy tears. I’m just so proud of the work that everyone has done,” Boise said. sfstewar@syr.edu

5. Visit your old high school (then instantly regret it)

To all of you who have read my column this semester, thank you for being a great audience. I hope these boredom busters are helpful. I’ll see you in the spring for more groundbreaking literary triumphs (by yours truly)! sswells@syr.edu

kellyamatlock@icloud.com

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winter guide 2023 11

OPINION

column

Typical ‘all-or-nothing’ mentalities shouldn’t define your New Year’s resolutions

By Maya Aguirre columnist

While other heavy drinking holidays may result in a bad hangover, mozzarella sticks and a blue slushie, New Year’s Eve results in a new gym membership and an email from Amazon confirming your order of a bullet journal and a pack of really pretty highlighters.

In the hours leading up to the new year, there is a sense of urgency to fit in as much unrestrained behavior as possible. It’s often seen as a last chance to go overboard before “the new you” is born on Jan. 1. All those final overindulgences are fair game until the version of you who doesn’t meditate or go to the gym is deemed as unacceptable.

This concept, which I’ll refer to as “final indulgence,” is everywhere in our culture. It is such a widespread phenomenon that says a lot about our rigid and binary view of life.

Americans are frequently viewed by citizens of other nations as having a culture that lacks self control and surrounds constant consumption and greed. Everything is extreme in the U.S.: and this idea is perpetuated by politicians, advertisements, portion sizes at restaurants – even the sheer number of lanes on many American highways is extreme.

This cultural attribute of extremes goes both ways though, and is most resoundingly obvious during the month of January, when the motivation to ditch our hedonistic tendencies is promoted by the comforting thought of a clean slate.

The phrase “New year new me!” is revived once the clock strikes midnight.

New Year’s resolutions, though intended to be a positive way to make life changes, are oftentimes extreme. Past studies have shown that many gyms will see a sharp increase in attendance and membership purchases, and then will see a drastic decrease on almost the same day every year, about three weeks later. This has become such a classic trope that economists have given it a name: “quitter’s day.”

Let’s say you decided to stop eating sweets as your resolution, but you cave on Jan. 15 by eating a piece of your mom’s birthday cake.

This is an example of the aftermath of the final indulgence mentality. The idea that you will completely stop eating sweets in the new year is daunting. The finality and rigidity of the resolution destined it for failure.

And that’s the main issue with this – in attempting to self-improve by setting an extreme resolution, you’ve really just built a subconscious association between chocolate cake and failure. But you’ve also reminded yourself of the neural association between eating cake and the glorious release of dopamine that you’ve been craving. These two conflicting messages only feed into our culture of extremes: which leaves very little gray area for us to make healthy changes in our lives.

Resolutions are a way to dedicate time to self betterment, which is a constant process. Instead of striving for instantaneous, all-or-nothing change, we can become more balanced, compassionate people when we approach self-growth this way.

Accepting non-linear progress in ourselves gives us a greater empathy for others, too: we are more likely to see the complexities in human

flynn ledoux contributing illustrator

nature once we move away from the rigidity our culture often propagates. This, in turn, allows us a greater capacity to combat the extremes that permeate our politics, beauty standards and consumption culture.

So this New Year’s, remember the concept of final indulgence, and try to find balance.

And even if you don’t, at least allow yourself the joy of a blue hangover slushie alongside your resolutions.

Maya Aguirre is a sophomore Magazine, News and Digital Journalism major. Her column appears biweekly. She can be reached at msaguirr@syr.edu.

personal essay

A Brazilian Christmas Story: Keeping traditions alive away from home

By Isadora Argenta

O guest writer

n Dec. 22 — our first day of summer — I would get out of bed, put on my favorite bikini, and head outside to tan while listening to “Boas Festas,” my favorite Christmas song. As my dad yelled out “Isadora” while he finished grilling, I would put on my shorts and grab a plate of his famous “Picanha.”

One of the things I miss the most about Brazil is the food.

Our family goes especially crazy with their cooking during the holidays; on Christmas Eve, dinner is a large buffet with pork, salad, rice, and lasagna. Having a sweet tooth, I anticipate my favorite panettone for dessert — the chocolate one.

I first moved from Brazil in 2014. As a 9-year-old I didn’t understand what the holidays would look like, but over time I began to understand that my culture could be carried wherever I was. Christmas in Brazil is very unique from American traditions, and I’m glad I got to take some of these with me.

In Brazil, most of our celebration happens on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. We start the holiday at church and then we gather in one of our family members’ houses for dinner — typically my grandmother’s since she had the biggest garage.

We finish praying before we eat, standing in a large circle with our hands wrapped as each person shares something they are grateful for.

My grandmother is usually the first one to shed a tear, and then we all tend to get a little emotional before one of us cracks a joke.

Another important Brazilian Christmas tradition is “Amigo Secreto,” or Secret Santa. While waiting for “Papai Noel” to arrive, my family gathers outside in a circle full of chairs and begins our version of the gift-giving tradition. Each individual gives a trait about a person, and the game continues when everyone guesses who that person is and the gift is exchanged — our “hints” consist of funny memories and anecdotes.

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Fifteen years ago, freshman Isadora Argenta gathered with her extended family and “Papai Noel” in Passo Fundo, Brazil to celebrate the Christmas season.

courtesy of isadora argenta

After the game is done we sit in our sea of presents and await the arrival of “Papai Noel.”

At exactly midnight he arrives from the North Pole to give presents to our family – it was a big culture shock to find out that in the U.S. Santa Claus arrives when everyone is asleep.

While the adults go to assist Papai Noel in getting to his seat, the children run in fear to their parents. Papai Noel then goes through every gift, passes them out to all the kids, and takes pictures with them, too. After all the gifts are delivered, he returns to the North Pole, while everyone heads home for the night.

As a kid, I always looked forward to getting together with my whole family and enjoying the warmth of Christmas. They have always been my biggest supporters through every accomplish-

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ment in my life. My family means everything to me, and moving so far away from them was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.

Though I never lived in the same city as my extended family, being on a different continent from them felt like a piece of me was missing. I always worried that I was missing out on their lives. But as time passed by, I learned to find new ways to communicate with them that helped me feel closer to them — our WhatsApp group chat allowed our family members to send updates and pictures of fun events and meaningful moments.

Again this year, it will be just me, my mother, father, and brother celebrating Christmas at home in Chicago. With just them at the table, it was a major adjustment, but we made every effort to maintain our gratitude, and

having them by my side allowed us to connect more as a family. They became my biggest inspiration, and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Although we don’t get to go back to Brazil, we will continue trying our best to carry our traditions to wherever we live. We will still celebrate Christmas on Dec. 24, eat traditional Brazilian foods and open our gifts together later that night.

I take pride in my Brazilian culture and I love how we celebrate Christmas. Though it is hard to keep a positive mindset, cultural traditions don’t end just because you have moved away from where they started.

Isadora Argenta is a freshman Magazine, News and Digital Journalism and Political Science major. She can be reached at iargenta@syr.edu.

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14 winter guide 2023

from page 16

brown When play returned as COVID-19 restrictions lessened, it was clear to Rackley that Brown “was peeking at the right moment.”

He gained statewide recognition, and his confidence increased. Brown lifted four days a week, speed trained three days a week and threw five days a week when his junior season started.

In Brown’s first conference game of the year, one play proved he was a clearcut college football player. Brown was scrambling

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out of the pocket and was one-on-one with a defender. He planted his foot, juked him out and took off for a 50-yard run. From that play on, Drew said, Brown knew he was the best player on the field.

“He’d tell his offensive linemen ‘don’t hold. If you can’t get them, I’ll get away,’” Drew said.

Brown was finally seeing the fruits of his labor, Drew said, and continued working to improve. He received his first Division I offers from Appalachian State and Miami (OH) before South Florida called too.

Then another challenge came. Within three weeks of signing day, USF offensive coordinator

Charlie Weis Jr., who helped recruit Brown, left to take the same job at Ole Miss. A year later, Scott was fired after going 1-11. But Brown said he’s loyal, and there was never a conversation about transferring.

When Alex Golesh was hired as the new head coach, he told Brown that he’d have a chance to compete for the starting job. The “organized two-minute drill” offense was something that suited Brown. When he won the starting job in fall camp prior to this season, he immediately called his parents.

Together, they celebrated the joy of Brown’s bet on himself to stay paying off. What fol-

from page 16

wood

Matos was right. Wood made varsity as an eighth grader. In Wood’s first game, Matos and the coaching staff told her to make sure she “touches a ball.” During her first rotation, Wood stuffed an outside hitter before peeking over to the bench and asked “Like that?” Matos smiled and answered “Yes.” From then on, Matos said Wood “wanted to block everything,” similar to her skills on the basketball court.

Toward the end of her first season with City Honors, Matos approached her about playing club volleyball for Nickel City — where Matos was the club director. Wood joined and said Matos “pushed her out of her comfort zone” and wanted to get her as much exposure as possible.

Wood gained comfort and confidence with more reps. Matos said Wood developed at a faster rate than anyone she’d ever seen, controlling the middle and becoming an untraditional offensive threat at middle blocker.

According to Matos, playing offense as a middle is one of the hardest things to do at the high school level. The coach had a rule to not run through the middle if the pass wasn’t perfect, but Wood could adjust her body to consistently get herself into good position for kills.

“Kyra kind of broke that rule,” Matos said. from page 15

predictions Meanwhile, the Orange have shown that their 3-point shooting is spotty. Yes, Mintz has become an efficient 3-point shooter. But Chris Bell, Justin Taylor and Starling have never shown the consistency to make tough shots from beyond the arc. SU will make it a close contest, but I see the Ducks eeking out a win in South Dakota by being the more efficient offense.

Tyler Schiff (9-1)

Start stringing ‘em together Syracuse 73, Oregon 70 Syracuse’s win over Georgetown provided glimpses of its sky-high ceiling. Mintz and Starling excelled offensively and Copeland’s double-digit scoring was partnered with a surprise feature from Mounir Hima, who played impressive minutes. Defensively, SU’s guards

Syracuse forward Kyra Wood nearly opted to pursue volleyball in college after a stellar high school career at City Honors (Buffalo, NY). duane tilghman contributing photographer

Matos said Wood was a little perplexed at first with the technical aspects of volleyball, but quickly learned. Wood’s pin to pin mobility came down to her footwork, which stemmed from her time playing basketball. contained Hoyas star Jayden Epps, holding him to 17 points.

But facing Oregon is a far greater test than any of SU’s seven victories so far.

It ’s a test which rivals those previously presented by top 25 teams Tennessee, Gonzaga and Virginia. Led by senior guard Jermaine Couisnard — a prolific three-level scorer — the Ducks also boast promising, talented freshmen presences Kwame Evans and Shelstad.

Now on a two-game winning streak, Syracuse has an opportunity to match its seasonbest of three in a row. Mintz and Starling will likely have their way offensively. And with early injuries dealt to Oregon’s N’Faly Dante and Nate Bittle, SU should control the paint.

Though Autry mentioned Naheem McLeod’s limited play time at D.C. was a product of “an irritated foot at the end of the half,” he, Brown and Hima should dominate.

“She just caught on to the game. Not just the physical aspect of it, but caught on to the X’s and O’s of the game,” Matos said. “To be honest with you, it’s a much more difficult game to learn strategically than basketball just because there’s

lowed was a five-win improvement from the previous year and a bowl berth.

Brown wants to enjoy a long career in the NFL one day, then return to school and become an orthodontist. He said he wants to experience the joy of leaving someone’s teeth better than they were. Like at Rolesville and USF, he wants to leave something better than when he found it.

“It feels great to be the foundation. 6-6 is not our ceiling. We’re eager to play this bowl game and get back in and turn this thing around fully,” Brown said. anthonyalandt29@yahoo.com @anthonyalandt

so many little things you have to make sure that you’re doing.”

During her sophomore season, Wood considered making volleyball her main sport. While she earned scholarship offers in basketball, she garnered a few additional offers for volleyball.

Wood continued to mull things over, attending different volleyball exposure camps while playing on the AAU basketball circuit with the Philadelphia Belles and later City Rocks (Albany, NY). Wood said everyone always looked at her as a basketball player and when she continued to play volleyball, some questioned it.

Wood said she couldn’t abruptly leave the sport because of all the time she had invested in it. But she eventually had to choose between playing volleyball or basketball in college.

Heading into her senior year, Wood chose basketball and said it “gave (her) more opportunities than volleyball.” But Wood’s passion for the sport never wavered. While at Temple, Wood sent Matos pictures of the volleyball court and would peek in on the team training. Matos said she knew there was a little part of Wood’s heart that was “tugged” to the sport.

“It was hard for me, like I really love volleyball to this day,” Wood said. “If I could do double sports… I would do it because I love volleyball.” zakwolf784254@gmail.com @ZakWolf22

scribble

Snowphie Szydlik says farewell...

sports@dailyorange.com @DOSports

Our beat writers are split on if Syracuse will beat Oregon Sunday at a neutral site game in Sioux Falls, SD. jack henry staff photographer

scribble by sophie szydlik senior staff writer

winter guide 2023 15

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ice hockey

Kate Holmes has reignited scoring prowess with Syracuse

By Timmy Wilcox asst. digital editor

Kate Holmes’ success never stemmed far from her home in Norfolk, Mass.

Growing up, Holmes and her older brother, Patrick, trained on a frozen pond within walking distance of their home. Holmes became a top player 90 minutes away at The Williston Northampton School (Mass.) before playing a key two-way role even closer to home at Northeastern for four seasons.

For her graduate season, Holmes transferred to Syracuse, nearly five hours and 300 miles from Norfolk. It was the first time Holmes played for a team outside of Massachusetts.

“Kate wanted a change of scenery, to get away from home for a little bit,” Northeastern head coach Dave Flint said. “But also, she could have a bigger role in Syracuse.”

The move has helped Holmes thrive as she leads the Orange with 14 points. Through 20 games, the forward also leads Syracuse in goals (five) and assists (nine), notching career-highs in both categories.

Holmes has four multi-point games this season, including a goal and assist in a 3-2 win against Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute on Oct. 14.

As a freshman at Northeastern, Holmes registered 14 points but recorded just eight over the next three seasons. At Syracuse, Holmes found her scoring touch again. Her resurgence hasn’t surprised Flint. “(Holmes) is sneaky good in that she’s always around the puck and she’s always around the net,” Flint said. “(The puck) finds its way on her stick and she has good instincts around the net.”

Before her collegiate career, Holmes emerged as a playmaker with Williston. Tallying 107 points at the school, she became one of seven players in program history to score 100 points.

As a senior, Holmes helped the Wildcats secure the top seed in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council Division 1 Tournament by recording 39 points.

Despite losing in the quarterfinals, Holmes earned First Team All-NEPSAC All-Star honors and was named the Wildcats’ MVP.

After scoring just eight points over her final three seasons at Northeastern, Kate Holmes now leads Syracuse with five goals and nine assists. jacob halsema staff photographer

Standing at 5-foot-2, Holmes was often among the shortest on her teams, but her height didn’t hinder her. Holmes used her frame to protect the puck and used angles to her advantage, Williston head coach Christa Talbot Syfu said. “(Holmes) has a knack for the net,” Talbot Syfu said. “She plays a 200-foot game and she plays really tough, she doesn’t want to lose a battle.”

Holmes carried her scoring prowess to Northeastern, specializing in opportunities in front of the net, said Katie Cipra, who played with Holmes at the university.

Holmes’ skills expanded to the defensive end too. Throughout her junior and senior seasons in

high school, Talbot Syfu utilized Holmes during penalty kills.

“There were times where we needed her to play some defense, whether that was in five-onfive or special teams,” Talbot Syfu said. “She saw the ice so well, you could put (Kate) in those situations and she would be successful.”

Holmes led Williston to a Winchendon School Inv itationa l Tour na ment Championship all four seasons, including a runner-up finish in the 2018 NEPSAC Division 1 Tournament. After her stout high school career, Flint recruited Holmes to play at Northeastern.

Despite a strong freshman campaign, Holmes found herself on the third and fourth lines as a sophomore. Focusing on defense, Holmes was quick to get back and often jumped passing lanes, Cipra said. “(Holmes) got in dirty areas, below the goal line or behind the net and picked up sticks,” Cipra said. “She makes sure she has her guy so that she can get (the puck) out.”

With Northeastern’s first line carrying the bulk of its scoring, Holmes’ defense was crucial to the Huskies’ success, Flint said.

The Huskies won the Hockey East each year with Holmes on their roster, including three straight appearances in the Frozen Four. As a sophomore, Holmes tallied three goals and one assist, but Flint praised Holmes’ forechecking.

Northeastern finished the season as the runnerup in the NCAA Tournament. “(Holmes) was someone the coaches could count on for goals when we needed it but off the ice she could always put a smile on your face,” Cipra said. “She made everyone laugh when we were down a goal or needed an energy boost.”

When Holmes transferred to Syracuse, the team she scored her first collegiate goal against on Oct. 12, 2019, she made an instant impact.

“I wanted a new experience and new opportunity to earn ice time and show what I’m capable of doing,” Holmes said. “Syracuse was the right place.”

At SU, Holmes is playing some of the best hockey of her career. From Nov. 17 against Lindenwood to Nov. 21 against Clarkson, Holmes recorded five points in three games — more points than she registered in her final season with the Huskies (two).

With Syracuse, Holmes has returned to the scoring prowess she had at Williston, converting rebounds and taking shots when given the opportunity. “(Holmes) really stepped up (scoring points),” Syracuse head coach Britni Smith said. “For her, it was coming from a program (Northeastern) that has had a lot of success and bringing those experiences and that knowledge of what it takes.

We’re looking at her to really help our younger players along and help our culture.” tswilcox@syr.edu @TimmyWilcox32

men’s basketball

Opponent Preview: What to know ahead of matchup with Oregon

By Henry O’Brien senior staff writer

After playing longtime rival Georgetown in Washington, D.C. last week, Syracuse travels to South Dakota for a neutral-site matchup against Oregon Sunday. The two teams have only played once before and both are searching for their eighth win.

The Ducks shoot 38.8% from 3-point range, which ranks as the 29th-best percentage in the country. The Orange, meanwhile, have been one of the weaker 3-point shooting teams in the country but had their best performance of the season from beyond the arc against the Hoyas, finishing 5-for-11.

Here’s everything you need to know about Oregon (7-2, 0-0 Pacific-12 Conference) before its matchup with Syracuse (7-3, 0-0 Atlantic Coast Conference):

All-time series Oregon leads 1-0.

Last time they played

In 2018, Syracuse and Oregon played at a neutral site in its only matchup against each other. The two competed at Madison Square Garden in the 2K Empire Classic consolation game.

Like the current rendition of the Orange, their 2018-19 squad struggled from 3-point

range. Against the Ducks, Elijah Hughes made two 3-pointers, but SU shot 5-for-28 from 3 and failed to keep up with Oregon in the first half.

While the second half box score was much tighter, the Orange failed to stop two future NBA players on the opposite sideline. The Ducks’ Bol Bol and Payton Pritchard scored 26 and 18 points, respectively, while Bol collected a game-high nine rebounds. Oregon eventually outrebounded SU 35-28 en route to an 80-65 victory.

KenPom odds

Oregon has a 70% chance of winning, with a projected score of 78-72.

The Ducks report

The last time the two teams played, head coach Dana Altman was undergoing a nine-year run where his Oregon teams made the Sweet 16 five times, including in that 2018-19 season. However, in the past two years, the Ducks failed to make the NCAA tournament, which has caused some to question if Altman’s team has lost its edge.

But this year’s version of the Ducks statistically resembles his 2016-17 team that went to the Final Four. Both teams shot well with a Top 50 effective field goal percentage and 3-point percentage. Oregon’s 113.9 adjusted offensive efficiency ranks 33rd in the coun-

try, while the defense ranks 55th in adjusted defensive efficiency. Starter Jermaine Couisnard and backup Kario Oquendo have driven this offense as the two average 12.3 and 10.2 points, respectively.

This efficiency has led to mixed results including an overtime win over Michigan and a 99-91 loss to Alabama.

How Syracuse beats Oregon

Like its game against Virginia, Syracuse is an underdog playing away from home. While Oregon and SU will play at a neutral site in South Dakota, the Orange still have to go up against a superior opponent.

Judah Mintz and J.J. Starling will both have to be at the top of their game. Their performance against Georgetown served as a prime example of what the duo is capable of. Along with the two guards, Chris Bell and Justin Taylor will need to sink their shots.

Altman and the Ducks are known for their spread offense, which looks to open up cutting lanes and back cuts to the hoop. With Syracuse head coach Adrian Autry implementing manto-man, the Orange have to stay quick on their toes. Center Naheem McLeod will have to be quick-footed in order to keep up and defend the rim. SU has an opportunity to keep it close,

so if it can make its free throws as well, it can inch out a victory that could boost its resume for March.

Stat to know: 64.8%

For as proficient as the Ducks are in shooting, they curiously struggle from the free-throw line.

Oregon ranks 323rd in the nation in free throw percentage, with a clip of 64.8%.

Couisnard gets to the line more than anybody on the team, but shoots an abysmal 63.6%.

The Ducks are average when it comes to total free throw attempts, totaling 199 shots from the line, but have failed to produce effective results.

Player to watch: Jermaine Couisnard, guard, No. 5

Couisnard dealt with injuries in the 202223 season, limiting him to just the second half of the year. But through nine games this season, Couisnard has played in them all. Against Alabama, he scored 24 points and tallied five rebounds and six assists.

The sixth-year guard has more experience than anybody on Oregon’s roster and has the ability to command the Ducks’ offense against Syracuse. henrywobrien1123@gmail.com @realhenryobrien

men’s basketball

Beat writers split on if SU will defeat Oregon in South Dakota

By Daily Orange Sports Staff

Adrian Autry returned to the away locker room at Capital One Arena (D.C.) and started dancing. Judah Mintz, a Maryland native, scored 25 points in his homecoming. J.J. Starling added a season-high 21. Quadir Copeland registered a career-best 14.

Everything went right for Syracuse in its 80-68 victory over once-Big East rivals Georgetown on Dec. 9. SU won the 99th all-time meeting between both sides by outscoring the Hoyas 20-2 in fast break points and holding them to a lowly 19.2% clip from 3.

Following the win, the Orange enjoy an eightday break before taking on Oregon in Sioux Falls, SD Sunday. The Ducks have strung together a

three-game win streak after suffering consecutive losses against Santa Clara and Alabama in late-November.

Here’s what our beat writers think will unfold during Syracuse’s (7-3, 0-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) neutral site matchup with Oregon (7-2, 0-0 Pacific-12 Conference):

Cole Bambini (9-1) Sioux Falls showdown Syracuse 76, Oregon 75

Coming off a convincing win down the stretch against rival Georgetown, Syracuse has the chance to pull off a resume-building win in its penultimate nonconference matchup. Mintz and Starling have fueled the Orange offensively, com-

bining for 46 of SU’s 80 points against the Hoyas.

The backcourt duo will need to be on full display again versus Oregon.

The Ducks sit in the top third of both adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency, per KenPom. Averaging 80.2 points per game, the Ducks will be a test for the Orange. But, I think they can make this game close due to its neutral location and matchup against a team that is lower-caliber than the programs Syracuse faced in Hawaii.

Copeland played a pivotal role against Georgetown and other bench players like Maliq Brown will need to show up defensively to keep the game tight. This game will come down to who can play the best down the stretch and stay out of foul trouble.

Henry O’Brien (10-0) Ducks go Orange hunting Oregon 75, Syracuse 72

Against Georgetown, Syracuse showed it has a winning formula that relies on Mintz and Starling. And with bench players like Brown and Copeland providing valuable minutes, SU will play Dana Altman’s squad tight.

But Oregon is one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the country. Starters like Jackson Shelstad and Jadrian Tracey both shoot 40% or higher and will be a headache for Autry’s defense. The Ducks also have the 46th-best effective field goal percentage in the country and rarely turn the ball over with a 15.2 turnover rate — 58th-best in the nation. see predictions page 14

SPORTS

16 winter guide 2023

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Freshman foundation byrum brown set USF’s single-season passing yards record as a freshman and was the first in program history to throw for over 3,000. He will be under center against SU in the Boca Raton Bowl on Dec. 21. courtesy of usf athletics

Byrum Brown received three FBS offers out of high school. Now, the quarterback is leading USF to its first bowl game since 2018 after a record-breaking season.

By Anthony Alandt senior staff writer

A

s Byrum Brown led Rolesville (N.C.) High School to the state championship game through a record-breaking senior year, Power Five schools weren’t calling. He talked with North Carolina, NC State and Wake Forest, but nothing stuck. Rolesville head coach Rainer Rackley said schools weren’t sure Brown could throw downfield, projecting him more as a run-first quarterback.

But South Florida continued to call during the recruiting process. Through a connection with Brown’s high school wide receivers coach, Malik Frazier, USF quality control coach Sawyer Jordan became aware of Brown.

When Brown took an unofficial visit to USF in 2022, he said it felt genuine. They showed him around Tampa, Florida, and had him pass to some graduate assistants. After one 20-yard out route that Brown zipped in, former head coach Jeff Scott offered Brown on the spot.

A few weeks later, Brown took an official visit with his mother. They went to Ocean Prime, a seafood restaurant where Brown indulged in a spread of shellfish, crabs, shrimp, lobster and oysters. He was sold.

“I knew I just needed an opportunity,” Brown said. “My parents said ‘whatever school gives you the opportunity, just go out there and make every other school in the country wish they offered you.’”

Two years later at 19, he’s already broken USF’s program record for most single-season passing yards, joining Heisman winning quarterback Jayden Daniels as the only other quarterback in the country with over 3,000 passing yards and 700 rushing yards. Now, Brown will be under center for USF when it takes on Syracuse in the Boca Raton Bowl on Dec. 21.

“The world and the nation may be surprised, but we’re not surprised,” said Rolesville head coach Rainer Rackley. “Now the nation’s seeing the fruits of his labor, and it’s exciting to sit back and watch.”

Despite being a budding track star and basketball player, Brown gravitated toward football. He was smaller growing up, but his family taught him that opportunities weren’t going to get handed to him.

He’d need to work to earn the trust of coaches. The family signed Brown up for football at 6 years old, and “the rest is history,” Drew said.

He continued doing track and field through middle school, eventually winning the national championship in the 1500-meter race. Drew said he and his wife thought Brown would pursue track in high school.

But he took on football at Rolesville.

Brown was 5-foot-7 when he entered high school. He played quarterback in youth football, but his size caused him to spend freshman year as Rolesville’s backup quarterback on junior varsity.

Rackley said Brown’s talent came in “spurts,” and when Rolesville’s senior quarterback transferred, the staff determined Brown was ready to take over.

Brown helped turn Rolesville around. He led the team, which finished 6-6 the year prior, to a 10-3 record and a run to the second round of the 4AA playoffs. The one-off signs of budding talent became more common, and Rackley allowed Brown to quickly settle in at quarterback.

Rackley was stunned. “There’s no way this is the same kid I saw three years ago,” he recalled thinking.

Then Brown hit a growth spurt and his talent soared.

During the six months school was shut down due to COVID-19, Brown grew from 5-foot-8 to 6-foot-2.

“He had over 3,000 yards passing, over 1,000 yards rushing in one season here,” Rackley said. “It’s evident that he’s always been able to do that. It was just the timing of him having the opportunity to do that.”

Drew said Brown started a strict diet and worked out seven days a week. Brown drank a protein shake after every workout, ate vegetables with every meal and a steak — cooked medium rare — or chicken. And every night, Brown ate two peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

see brown page 14

women’s basketball

SU forward Kyra Wood nearly chose volleyball over basketball

By Zak Wolf

asst. sports editor

Heading into Kyra Wood’s senior volleyball season in March 2021, COVID19 restrictions canceled her state tournament. The best a team could do was win their section.

Wood knew it was her final season playing volleyball after committing to Temple for basketball in Oct. 2020. So, she wanted to go out on top. City Honors School (Buffalo, NY) head coach Deborah Matos said Wood looked at

her team and said “Alright then, we’re sectional champions, let’s get to work.”

Late in the season, City Honors was in match point in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Section VI Class B-1 championship against Cheektowaga High School. As the serve came over, the libero cushioned the ball to the setter, who lofted the ball up for Wood. She smashed the ball within the 10-foot line to clinch City Honors’ first sectional championship win since 2010.

“All the work, questions, drills all came together at that moment and there was nobody more deserving of that moment than Kyra because she manifested it,” Matos said.

Before becoming a full-time basketball player with Syracuse, Wood was a dominant two-sport athlete at City Honors. Along with being a 2,000 point scorer, Wood earned All-Western New York honors for volleyball in multiple seasons. Despite not playing competitive volleyball until eighth grade,

Wood was a dominant force as a middle blocker.

Matos felt if she had more time with Wood, she could’ve developed her into “one of the top volleyball players in the country.” But Wood chose to stick with her first love of basketball, and has carved out an integral role in SU’s frontcourt as a junior.

According to Wood’s parents, Yolanda and Hollis, she tried various sports as a kid, including cross country, soccer and even rugby. Entering eighth grade, Wood never played organized

volleyball and decided to try out for the junior varsity team at City Honors.

But to Wood’s shock, she accidentally came to the varsity tryouts.

Because of her inexperience, Wood wanted to leave. Yet, Matos noticed her height and insisted Wood to stay.

“I said, ‘No, ma’am I actually don’t want to because I want to play JV…I’ve never played volleyball really and I don’t think I belong here,’” Wood said. “She was like, ‘no, you actually are going to try out.

You’re going to be on the team, watch.’” see wood page 14