YOUR VOTE COUNTS Read about the youth vote, womenĘźs suffrage, and Senator Kamala Harris
SOCIAL AWARENESS Diversity makes us stronger. Learn about how we can better understand each other
HALLOWEEN Spooky stories and frightening festivities!
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Sports 19-22 Eagle News
Our Mission Eagle News, the official student media group at Florida Gulf Coast University since 1997, represents the diverse voices on campus with fairness. We select content for our publication and our website that is relevant to the student body, faculty, and staff. Members are committed to reporting the news with accuracy and truth. Our purpose is to encourage conversations about issues that concern the on-campus community Eagle News views every culture with equal respect and believes every person must be treated with dignity.
Cover photo by Julia Bonavita Cover design by Erika Sauer
SWFL Hotspot of the Month: The Seaside Bar
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By Samantha Roesler, Editor- in- Chief
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arch 17, 2020 was a shocking day for many restaurant owners— it was the day Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered all bars in the state to close down due to COVID-19 concerns. It was also the day that The Seaside Bar and Grill opened its doors for business. “The first day was very scary,” The Seaside Bar owner Marc Devisse said. “But, we were very busy, everyone was excited to see something new.” After being open for one day, Devisse closed the bar for the next ten days to reassess the situation and decided to open up a window for carry out. Devisse is a FGCU graduate and is also the CEO of a construction company in the Southwest Florida area. Out of caution that the economy was going to take a hit, he opened a restaurant with the thought that the food and beverage business would be more recession proof. The Seaside Bar holds a modern atmosphere with both an outside and inside bar/seating area, and an upstairs nightclub-like deck. The bar opens up at lunchtime, which has proven effective for attracting customers of every age demographic. “I’d say that the age group is really flexible,” The Seaside Bar employee Lisa Johnston said. “We get a lot of different ages, I think so far we’ve done a good job and come season the live music will keep the younger crowd around.” As the Seaside crew continue to aim to be the coolest spot in town, the COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a large roadblock for good business. Now that Florida has recently increased the allowed capacity for restaurants and bars, customers seem to be wearier of social gatherings.
Photo by Julia Bonavita “We are constantly battling people who are antimasks and people who are for masks,” Devisse said. “Catering to people’s decisions is tough. When capacity increased, we saw a decline in sale. The only thing we can think of is that people don’t want to be in a crowded space.” This new SWFL hotspot continues to have almost daily events and specials for people who are getting more comfortable with going out in public setting. They have live music Friday and Saturday nights, trivia nights on Thursdays, bottomless Mimosas and more exciting nights that can be found on their social media. “We’re trying to keep it new and fresh, just kind of changing and bringing in new talent and acts,” Devisse said. “If something doesn’t work, we change it and try to improve.” For now, Devisse and his employees are just focusing on being a place for anyone to hang out and feel comfortable. “Our goal is to be the neighborhood hangout. Everyone is welcome, and everyone feels welcome with great food, service and fun atmosphere.” FGCU students will get 10% off any full-priced menu item with a valid student I.D. ∎
For more info, contact The Seaside Bar Phone: 239-288-1470 Email: info@theseasidebar.com Address: 24850 Old 41 Rd Unit 12-13 Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Does South Florida Really Support LGBTQ+ Members?
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By Erica Fish, Staff Writer
he month of October is not only about in the workforce, housing or other publicly used celebrating Halloween. areas. For the LGBT+ community, Several cities and counties, compromising it means celebrating pride. National Coming half of Florida’s population, have enacted antiOut Day took place Oct. 11. Pride month is a discrimination ordinances, which have started to celebration where members of the community make their way to Naples and Fort Myers. reflect to see how far they have come. However, it’s going to take more than some Unfortunately, not all communities are locals voicing the need for these rights. welcoming. For some LGBT+ community “Discrimination is any sort of negative members, discrimination has been a controversial action or behavior toward someone who can’t issue for businesses in Southwest Florida. change something about themselves,” Wilson said. Gay and transgender individuals can “And I can’t change the fact that I am a gay man, face widespread discrimination in the workplace. and this won’t stall people from commenting, According to the Center for American Progress, harassing or becoming violent.” studies show 15-43% “Apart from “Finding your self-confidence and of gay people have myself, I’ve had friends experienced some your truth is what creates many unique who have gotten denied form of harassment service, and people situations for us…” at work. have tried to not serve Apart from employment discrepancies, them because of their identity if it’s been at a bar community members want to know why or a restaurant,” said FGCU junior Silas Hall, a businesses unfairly treat or deny service to transgender individual in the LGBT+ community. LGBT+ customers and employees. Some transgender individuals face the “This is personal. No one should constant struggle of receiving daily insults. And experience being afraid to express their identity, for members of the LGBTQ+ community, growing whether if it’s about your gender or relationship,” accustomed to such neglect is a harsh reality. said FGCU senior Oscar Wilson, a member “Being treated for things that are out of of the LGBT+ community. “Experiencing your control or embracing your own choice, like discrimination and retaliation in public being transgender, is not meant to inconvenience locations, like local businesses, is a reason why anyone,” said FGCU senior Lukas Goldstein, a there needs to be actual LGBT equality.” transgender individual in the LGBT+ community. Close to 75% of Floridians support legally It’s common for people to feel scared when protecting LGBT+ people from discrimination, they come out because of society’s scrutiny. according to Equality Florida. Queer residents of SWFL feel no different. But per current Florida state law, no law “While this is a conservative area, addresses discrimination protections based on overall, Florida is a fairly progressive state,” Hall a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity said. “We should be afforded legal protection to
workforce legislation, public accommodation and identification.” In 2012, a gay couple was denied services at Masterpiece Cakeshop for their wedding cake, which made national news after the owner claimed he did not want to serve the couple due to his religious beliefs. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the baker, according to BBC. It’s now 2020, and the same experiences are happening locally as members of the LGBT+ community hesitate about where they can go to be served. “It’s okay to have your beliefs, but regardless of how people identify, it shouldn’t matter. That’s a customer bringing business,” Wilson said. “Business owners and employees should be able to separate their professionalism from personal views. At the end of the day, it’s all about making a profit.” All businesses could have a boost in revenue if they promote an LGBT+ friendly environment, Goldstein said. The 1964 Civil Rights Act has been used in defense, which outlaws any employment discrimination based on sex, race, color, national or religious origin. However, no legislative act explicitly protects people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Diversity amongst humanity is what makes the culture of people unique. So, without diversity, who are we? One well-known restaurant in Fort Myers is The Gathering Place, owned by couple Tony Clark
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and Shawn Leiva, who pride themselves on creating their business as a safe space for LGBT+ members who are all welcome to dine there. Their positive attitude has rippled through Southwest Florida, influencing members of the community, along with supporters who are advocating to make a difference. “Our community is strong, and we are resilient,” Goldstein said. “No matter how much discrimination or judgment we face, we pick ourselves back up and express ourselves however we want.” As the community grows in Fort Myers, suggested LGBT-sensitivity and annual diversity training are asked to come into effect. This could help prevent discriminant behavior in publicly used spaces or businesses. “If Florida were to pass a non-discriminatory act, it would instill better trust in our judicial system,” Hall said. An increase in legalities that independently offer local human rights can make a difference in Florida and other states who have not passed an antidiscrimination ordinance. It will take more than advocates and officials who stand for the community to promote initiating progress for a better Southwest Florida. “Finding your self-confidence and your truth is what creates many unique situations for us… Good or bad,” Wilson said. “All situations make me who I am and, as difficult as they were, I wouldn’t have changed any of it. I know I’m resilient and can better myself for whatever social challenge comes my way.∎
Photo by Julia Bonavita
How To Support Your Jewish Friends During The Wave Of Antisemitism
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By Ariana Milian, Staff Writer
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Photo Credit to David Holifield from Pexels
Jews of all ages are keenly aware that ast month, a Chabad house at the antisemitism exists. University of Delaware was set on fire I was taught about the Holocaust in fourth in an antisemitic act. grade, and learned more about it as I got older. Chabad houses are generally one of the focal I have also had run-ins with antisemitism points of Jewish campus life, a refuge for Jewish throughout my life. students to celebrate holidays, attend religious As a Jewish person in an area and country programming, and learn about Jewish life. in which we are the minority Jewish minority, Antisemitism has been on the rise in the I worry about United States in “Your Jewish friends, peers, and colleagues the upticks in recent years. need your support.” antisemitism in The shooting recent years. at the Tree of I have also been personally impacted by it. Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA was just one I have been called antisemitic slurs while out big story that captured international media in my community. I have been told that Jews attention. Smaller stories include an attack at a Hanukkah had the Holocaust coming to us. I lost a friend in high school who told me Party in Rockland County, New York, multiple that her family said that we couldn’t be friends reports of synagogues and Jewish graves being anymore because I was Jewish. vandalized with swastikas, Desean Jackson’s I watched family friends drop off their 11 and Hitler quote on his Instagram story, and the 8-year-old sons at Religious School and explain hashtag trend ‘#JewishPrivilege’ on Twitter. the police presence to them the day after the In 2017, participants at the Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia threw Nazi shooting at Tree of Life. Listening to the children trying to grasp the salutes, and shouted “seig heil” and “Jews will concept of deep-seeded antisemitism broke my not replace us.”
heart. In 2019, there were 2,100 acts of assault, vandalism, and harassment against Jews in the United States, an increase of 12 percent from 2018, according to the Anti- Defamation League’s Audit of Antisemitic Incidents. Despite the ride of antisemitism in this country, I am loud and proud about my Judaism. I love talking about my religion and my culture, I love celebrating holidays, and I wear my Star of David with immense pride. I am not here to play the victim. However, I am here to tell you that the Holocaust was just one lifetime ago. I am here to tell you that antisemitism and Nazism are real and they exist in every community, in every stage and facet of life. Antisemitism is also so ingrained in some aspects of culture that people don’t even realize that what is being said is antisemitic. When someone makes comments or jokes about Jews and money, or Jews and power, that is antisemitic. It was used by the Nazis to portray Jews as greedy and power hungry, people who will steal your jobs and your money. When Donald Trump says “sleepy eyes Joe Biden” or “sleepy eyes Chuck Todd,” it is antisemitic. The phrase “sleepy eyes” was used in Nazi propaganda during the Holocaust to help people identify and turn in Jews to the Nazis. American Jews are dealing with a lot. We are constantly under fire from all sides of the political spectrum, and we can tend to feel unsafe and unsure of when and where the next bout of hateful attacks towards us will come from. But here’s how you can be an ally to your Jewish friends. First, please listen to us. Do not accuse us of playing the victim or brushing antisemitism off as some sort of archaic concept. It’s very real and it’s something we deal with every day, directly or indirectly.
Second, call out antisemitism when you see it or hear it. Even if it doesn’t affect you or if you aren’t Jewish. Antisemitism can be something that is so normalized and ingrained in society that we don’t even realize it’s there. Educate your friends and family on the language they use and why it’s problematic. Finally, don’t brush it off. Stop pretending it’s harmless, that it isn’t ill-intended, or that it doesn’t exist at all. One of the most harmful things to the Jewish community is the denial of antisemitism and violence against us. It hurts the community as a whole. Jews shouldn’t have to live in fear of when the next antisemitic attack will occur. I shouldn’t have had to learn about antisemitism from a young age. I want my eventual children to live in a world where antisemitism doesn’t exist, and that can’t happen without my generation confronting the issue head on. Your Jewish friends, peers, and colleagues need your support. Have our backs, be an ally, and call out antisemitism when you see it.∎
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Student voting in the upcoming presidential election By Sabrina Salovitz, Assistant Editor The United States is barreling towards a historic presidential election in November. Once again, the nation is looking to the youngest voters to cast their ballots. “Young voters have the potential to make a significant impact, especially in swing states,” FGCU Political Science Professor, Dr. Sandra Pavelka said. The youth vote could be a deciding factor in the 2020 election, but in a country that has one of the lowest rates of youth voter turnout in the world, many young Americans are making the decision not to vote. “I believe that to fix the broken system that we are in, we need to do more than voting,” Joe Campione, a sophomore at Florida SouthWestern State College, said. “I don’t know what that is, but voting is not going to do anything.” This sentiment is not an uncommon one, but Pavelka said
choose not to vote. “I think often times young people choose not vote to because they think it doesn’t really affect them,” said Sawtelle. “Democracies only work when citizens voice their discomforts and approvals of what the people in power are doing.” However, Campione has a different viewpoint. He is not registered to vote and never plans to be. “I try to stay away from politics as much as possible. I would want to be part of the system if it was a good system, but our system is set up for Photo by Cottonbro from Pexels failure,” said Campione. Pavelka addressed Pavelka also said, before these sorts of objections, asking turning up to the polls, people young people to reconsider should educate themselves on the their positions and think about candidates. Sierra Sawtelle, a junior at important issues. FGCU, has been registered to vote “Identify with candidates who share your views and cast your since she turned 18. She is doing ballot,” said Pavelka. “Your research and familiarizing herself vote will count and make a with the different candidates. difference.”∎ Sawtelle thinks it is irresponsible for people her age to that while many young people will choose not to vote for personal reasons, it is important to continue to encourage those non-voters to turn out for this election. “The youth vote absolutely matters,” Pavelka said. “Young voters will have an impact on the issues that they are passionate about.”
Photo by Cottonbro from Pexels
On Campus in a
Pandemic A
little over a year ago, I was sitting in my childhood bedroom writing essays and applying to college. I was excited for the opportunities I’d experience, the people I’d meet, and like most- the opportunity to be living away from home. In my mind, college was going to be worth every penny! It would be the best time of my life. Then COVID-19 came and flushed most of my dreams down the toilet. FGCU was quick to give me hope of a semi-normal school year when they announced students would be returning to campus in the fall. I finally had something to look forward to. But now as I sit in my dorm three months in, with coronavirus cases on the rise and one inperson class, I can’t help but think, “Is living on campus worth the money right now?” Room and board is one of the most expensive parts of college. The national average for public universities is $11,500, according
Photo by Julia Bonavita
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By Allie Brown Staff Writer
to educationdata.org. While FGCU’s room and board cost is $9,672, and overall lower than the national average, it is still about $1,074 per month. For your typical college student, that’s a large sum of money. In the Residences at University Village, for a standard four-bedroom, four-bathroom apartment it will cost $840 per month to rent. In The Reef, it will cost $745 per month to rent. Both options are significantly cheaper compared to the breakdown of on-campus housing. At first glance I couldn’t believe the hefty cost of housing, but I, like many others, believed the benefits of living on campus would balance out the cost. Afterall, living on campus means you get to be more included in the FGCU experience. You’re closer to your peers, your classes and the events! At least, that’s what it was like before the virus. “...It’s just not the same experience as it once was,” said FGCU student Maddie Miller. Miller acknowledged that “...What they’re doing is in the best interest of everyone, but it honestly feels like a waste of money to live on campus.” I may not have had the true FGCU experience as a student, but I understand what Miller references. When talking with older students, they always said how lively the students, staff and faculty were. Even during my college tour, I knew this was an active school.
10 There was always something to do, but now these events are limited on time and capacity, which leaves little time to get to know your peers. Are there benefits to living on campus while in a pandemic? The answer to that is yes. These benefits include being able to better establish relationships with your peers during the rough times, but economically it can be problematic. The Housing Staff has done an outstanding job engaging with residents through events and social media. They have done great with what they have and continue to make the most out of this experience.
Photo by Julia Bonavita As students we appreciate what FGCU is trying to do, but we need to know we are getting value out of not only just living on campus, but also the money we are paying to be here to have the FGCU experience.∎
FGCU’s 30 credit-hour Master’s Degree in Engineering (MSE) offers three exciting concentrations in Sustainable Water Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, and Construction. Program faculty are experienced teachers who guide and mentor your post-baccalaureate education. The program schedule serves full-time working students with classes held two days a week online or face-to-face between 4:30 pm -7:15 pm. Degree completion is possible in 2 years, and tuition support is available in the form of waivers, assistantships, and scholarships! The application deadline for Spring 2021 is November 15, 2020, and for Fall 2021 is July 1, 2021. To learn more about the program, visit www.fgcu.edu/eng/mse. For assistance, please contact Dr. Danvers Johnston (djohnston@fgcu.edu) or Melinda Morra (mmorra@fgcu.edu).
11 FGCU library hosts women’s suffrage virtual exhibition By Jules Bustamante, Contributing Writer Fight for the Ballot: Voting Rights in the 20th Century is the Bradshaw Library’s Archives and Special Collections’ 2020-21 virtual exhibition. It shows how women and minorities fought for their right to vote, along with other changes in American politics. The kickoff meeting, Did Susan B. Anthony Need A Pardon? Women’s Suffrage, Personhood, and Race in the 19th Century was held on Sept. 23. FGCU Professor and Expert of English & Gender Studies Dr. Jordan Von Cannon discussed with curator Bailey Rodgers the importance of the suffragette movement and first-wave feminism. President Trump pardoned Susan B. Anthony on Aug. 18, 2020. Anthony was arrested and charged with voter fraud in 1872 after she demanded to vote at an election. Anthony wanted to prove that she could vote under the 14th amendment, which stated that all born or naturalized people in the United States were citizens. The amendment did not specify which race or gender counted. Von Cannon said that Anthony did not need a pardon because she wanted to get the court involved and get the general public’s attention. “Susan B. Anthony’s defense was, ‘If I’m a citizen, then I didn’t commit a crime because I’m eligible to vote,’” Von Cannon said. “‘Or if I
committed a crime because I’m not a citizen, you’re saying I’m not a person. If I’m not a person, then I’m not subject to the laws of a country.’ I think that it’s the most brilliant argument.” The Bradshaw Library emphasized in the exhibition that all people, including women and people of color, are citizens that deserve to vote.
Photo by Andrew McCurtrie from Pexels
“Anthony’s act of defiance is a shining example of what we’re trying to convey,” Rodgers said. They also discussed the importance of intersectionality. Suffragettes and slavery abolitionists fought together for equal voting rights for all Americans. Frederick Douglass supported women’s suffrage, and the online exhibition displays the stories of Black suffragettes as well.
Von Cannon acknowledged that there were still tensions of sexism and racism between the civil rights and women’s rights movements. Black women and other women of color were caught in the intersections, even though they contributed to both movements. “I think that this is one of the things we see today with the Black Lives Matter movement and its sister movement, Say Her Name,” Von Cannon said. “This is one of the ongoing ways that oppression works.” By learning from the past, Von Cannon believes that others can create empathy and understanding between each other. This can also make movements better. With the November election approaching, Rodgers said that it is crucial for women to vote because of those who backed the suffragette movement. “Voting can really change our country,” Rodgers said. “It’s important for women to vote because women and men fought for our rights about 100 years ago. They weren’t just handed to us.” The next event, Voices for Women’s Suffrage, will be held on Oct. 28 from 6-7 p.m. The digital exhibition and registration for the event can be found on the library’s website.∎
Freddie’s Trick or Treat Alley at Fleamasters Flea Market October 31st
Fleamasters Flea Market 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. 4135 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33916 Come out to Fleamasters on Halloween day and do some trick-or-treating! The market will be covered with spooky decorations, and vendors will be handing out candy! It will be a fun and safe environment to have some Halloween fun!
Halloween October 27th
Vino’s Picasso 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 15250 S Tamiami, Unit 109, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Visit Vino’s Picasso for great drinks, fun times and step by step painting instructions. Over 90% of their clients have never painted before, so do not be afraid to let your creativity shine!
Halloween Car Event October 24th
Millennial Brewing Co. 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. 1811 Palm Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901 They are going to have food, prizes, drinks and much more! Feel free to decorate yourself and/or your car! Graphics by Clayton Petro and Erika Sauer
By Katie Loudermilk Contributing Writer
HALLO
is going to look different this is no doubt about it. However, to host holiday events while These events are subject to confirm with the
6th Annual Sideshow Bob’s Electric Circus Worst Halloween Costume Party October 27th
Buddha LIVE 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. 12701 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919
The event will feature live music by the original circus freaks: Bob Tabarrini, Vic Jimenez, Tyler Kluesner, Justin Pupillo and James S. Wilder!! There will be drink specials and prizes for the best, and worst, costumes!
Halloween Bash at Millennial October 30th
Millennial Brewing Co. 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. 1811 Palm Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901 There will be themed music, drinks, a costume contest and more!
Halloween on the Farm October 31st
Southern Fresh Farms 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 8500 Penzance Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33912
Something wicked comes this way. Southern Fresh Farms will have limited edition products and spooky fun for every ghoul or ghostie. There will be hayrides, pumpkins and some amazing local artisans that await on this All Hallow’s Eve.
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year due to COVID-19. There many SWFL businesses plan following CDC guidelines. change, so make sure to host on the day of.
Halloween GLOW October 31st
SKY ZONE 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. 14181 S Tamiami Trail #140, Fort Myers, FL 33912
Have a glowing good time this Halloween! SKY Zone will have games, dancing, laser tag, candy and more. Costumes are welcome if they glow under black lights, and sky socks are required.
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I
t never sleeps.
It never blinks. Its eyes are cracked and wrinkled from the lack of moisture. Its bloodshot gaze follows you everywhere. There is no escape from this hell. The paranoia sits heavy on your chest, snapping your ribs one by one. The pain travels deeper to the pit of your stomach. It’s a piercing, excruciating pain. There is no escape from this hell. The air escapes your lungs faster than you can kiss it goodbye. It is always watching. It can taste your suffering. There is nothing left. There is no escape from this hell. -Nina Mendes, News & Features Editor
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amie hadn’t seen anyone on the walk to class, not in the lobby of her building or anywhere on campus. It was so awfully quiet; she was starting to get worried. “Could it be a holiday?” she thought to herself. “Did the school shut down?” Jamie took most of her classes online and, while she knew it was safer that way, she sometimes worried that the rest of the world might just forget about her while she sat alone in her dorm. She checked her phone anxiously while she waited; class should be starting soon. “Where is everybody?” she muttered, staring down at her phone; she didn’t have a single notification. “Oh, look here,” said a brittle voice behind her. “We missed one.” -Sabrina Salovitz, Assistant Editor
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he ripped leather booth creaked as I shifted uncomfortably; my tongue sat heavy in my mouth, like lead. My mask seems to creep tighter, strong holding itself while I heaved for breath. Eyes on me though I act like I don’t notice. Silence. The condensation drips down my glass. I watch it. Heart in my throat as the steam wafts to my face. Is it a torture chamber? Is that what I’m in? Everything’s hot, unbearably so. Boils grow on my face from the burn. I’m strapped in, nowhere to run. My skin starts to peel off in layers. Too hot. I start to melt into the crackly seat underneath me. “Enjoy your meal!” “Thanks, you too.” -Karina Cashman, Opinion Editor
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ancy grew up accustomed to hand-me-downs. When girls played with Baby Alive dolls, she got an antique, porcelain doll from her town’s local consignment shop. “Her name is Hilda,” the man at the consignment shop said as he handed her over. Nancy took her home. She had a playdate later that night. All the girls brought their dolls. Short, automatic phrases were repeated from the girls’ Baby Alive dolls. Hilda said nothing. The girls went to bed. It was dead silent. Ominous, even. Nancy closed her eyes and held Hilda close to her. Close enough that Hilda’s head rested next to her ear. Nancy heard a faint whisper. “You’re next.” -Katiuska Carrillo, Contributing Writer
Graphics by Erika Sauer
Sufragette Reflection: A Reflection on the Nineteenth Amendment
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By Serena Tartaglia, Staff Writer
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t’s been one hundred years since the nineteenth amendment was passed in America, and during an election year, as we reflect on our values and progress as a society in the past four years, we must acknowledge those who made it possible. Suffragists like Susan B Anthony and Ida B Wells faced public scorn, multiple arrests, hunger strikes where they were force-fed in prison, even the word “suffragette” was used to mock them, until they reclaimed it and used it in their favor. The ratification of the nineteenth amendment in August 1920 was the first step in achieving true equality for women with men. Thus, began the domino effect for women’s rights in the twentieth century. The next barrier broke in 1960, when the first birth control pill was introduced by the Food and Drug administration, giving women the freedom to control if, and when, they have children.
In 1963, President Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act. The same year, Betty Friedan published The Feminine Mystique, a book about how some American housewives felt confined by their roles as wives and mothers. Divorce was uncommon at that time, as were women working outside of the home. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 gave women of color the right to vote, and the 1970s social movement was called “The Women’s Liberation Movement” for a reason. It destroyed some of the final legal obstacles that women faced in true equality with men. In 1972, President Nixon signed Title IX into law, which made sex discrimination in the workplace illegal. The following year, Roe v Wade gave women the right to abortion, and granted them the right to make vital decisions about their body. In 1974, a woman could finally get her own
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Photo Credit to Giacomo Ferroni from Pexels credit card without her husband’s signature. It was not until 1978 that a woman could not be fired just for being pregnant. In 1973, women were allowed to serve on a jury in all fifty states. Spousal rape was legal until 1993. In 1994, Senator Joe Biden wrote, and President Bill Clinton signed the Violence Against Women Act, which provides funding for programs that help domestic violence victims. However, the fight for equality continues today. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which eliminates the normal 180/300-day charge filing period for pay discrimination claims. 2016, Bernie Sanders announced his candidacy for president because he did not want Hillary Clinton to be “coronated” as president. She became the first woman to be nominated for president in a major political party. Roe v Wade is under constant attack from Republicans who want to dismantle Planned Parenthood clinics, keep women in poverty, and take away their right to choose what happens to
their bodies. In the hundred years since the first women made their voices heard in that ballot box, I will do what they gave their lives to do: vote. Will you?∎
Kamala Harris: The Good, Bad and Questionable
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By Erica Fish, Staff Writer
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hen presidential candidate and former vice president Joe Biden announced his running mate, California Senator Kamala Harris, progressive support has been underway for the duo. Harris is the first Black and South Asian American woman in running for a major presidential decision, according to CNN. Vowing to take the fight for national support against President Trump and VicePresident Pence, Kamala Harris has stood out as a candidate who supports on-record equality for all persons. “I do see how having a woman in the White House would prove equality existing in our political system,” said LGBTQ+ community member and FGCU
student Brice Clayton. As one of the earliest politicians to support marriage equality, Harris’ prior record for trans rights has led some LGBTQ+ support to stall, making Harris a somewhat complicated vote. Senator Harris is hailed as a solid choice for the vicepresidential nomination, but for the LGBTQ+ community, she is not a straight shoot in the park. Kamala Harris has gone for bills criminalizing sex work, and at times, has not been an advocate for members of the LGBTQ+ community. “Kamala has spoken up with support for transgender people having equal access to public restrooms, although, her past words cannot be discredited,” said LGBTQ+ member and FGCU
Graphic by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
student, Glenn Lopez. “She spoke up against the trans community and she needs to take ownership of it.” While Harris seems to have changed her tune, she wasn’t always an advocate for the transgender community. “Harris’ words cannot be erased; otherwise, it’s as if people are picking and choosing the details they want to hear and hailing someone as a person who does no wrong,” said Lopez. “This could create possible issues if Kamala doesn’t own up to any wrongdoings in the future and people let it slide.” Kamala Harris has taken on political strategies in defending victims of anti-LGBTQ+ violence, and as Biden’s running mate, Senator Harris does seek to rewrite her past on previous decisions made when prosecutor. In 2015, Harris faced criticism for her decision to block gender-affirming medical care for a trans woman in prison, and four years later, her response to this, was that she was obligated to defend the state, according to the Washington Blade. “Regardless of who the individual is, if you are promised reassignment surgery, then it is unfair and unjust to withhold this from them,” Clayton said.
18 After California’s 2008 Supreme Court decision to overturn the state’s LGBTQ+ marriage ban, Harris began to officiate queer marriages, according to the 19th News. “Harris does stand on good policies, and even though, for some, it can be challenging to
percentage of adults who identify as transgender, gay, bisexual or lesbian than any other city in the United States, according to the Time. While every politician has to be a chameleon in order to get the vote and to get the support they need, we’re not all running
since her role has questionably panned out in California. After her 2016 Senate win, Harris established a hate crimes unit to investigate and prosecute anti-LGBTQ+ violence which then grew to the national level by 2018. Seen as a political
“Harris does stand on good policies, and even though, for some, it can be challenging to look past her previous mistakes; people can change, and Harris has proven her commitment to the community.” look past her previous mistakes; people can change, and Harris has proven her commitment to the community,” Clayton said. After California’s 2008 Supreme Court decision to overturn the state’s LGBTQ+ marriage ban, Harris began to officiate queer marriages, according to the 19th News. Harris brings a proLGBTQ+ bonus to Biden’s campaign, her previous work includes frequently sponsoring equality legislation and speaking out against the violence transgenders experience. This is a complete difference when comparing Harris’ past decisions for trans persons… San Francisco has the highest
for Vice President. Harris won her position in California after changing her platform to fit the views of the election she was running for at the time; which meant getting the vote from the LGBTQ+ community. But morphing into what the public wants, does not mean you can change your opinions for the sake of the winning vote. “Kamala’s actions seemingly bring awareness and support for minorities, and while she has said some things that she needs to be held accountable for, she still seems to be a better choice overall,” Lopez said. It can be understood why those who question Harris as a promising choice for presidency,
reformer and ally, Harris has withstood the judgement for her previous obligations when working in the criminal system; which has now led her to be on the 2020 presidential ballot. “Harris has supported gay marriages in the past and has voted and helped pass laws which support LGBT peoples,” said Clayton. “She cares for the community and hopes to help make it more accepting for anyone it has oppressed. We’ll just see what happens in November.”∎
19
2013 RECAP: March Madness
By Jake Henning, Sports Editor
I
Photo Credit to Julia Bonavita
and grab 500 rebounds in his career. Brown also n 2013, FGCU showed the country won the Atlantic Sun player of the year in his their high-flying antics and three-point senior season. shooting when they landed themselves in Starting point guard Brett Comer wasn’t the NCAA March Madness Tournament. exactly acclimated to his position when he first As a No.15 seed, most teams are counted arrived at FGCU, coming from Winter Park out and predicted to lose to big conference High School, where he was a backup to future programs that run the ESPN highlight reel. In NBA player Austin only their second “Sherwood Brown had 24 points and Rivers. Comer would year of full NCAA then go on to record 31 eligibility, the Eagles Bernard Thompson finished with 23.” assists in three NCAA won the Atlantic Sun Tournament, beating top-seeded Mercer in the Tournament games, the third-highest for a player in tournament history. championship game, to earn their first ever bid Chase Fieler was another that had little to the NCAA Tournament as a No. 15 seed in attention as a high school recruit, but quickly the south region. found success with the Eagles. In their ASUN Many of FGCU’s core players were never regarded as stars coming out of high school championship season, Fieler averaged 12.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and shot 56 percent from and into college. Sherwood Brown began his collegiate basketball career as a walk-on and the field. He was also named to the Atlantic Sun All-Conference Second Team and earned had no attention as a high school recruit. Brown was the third player in Florida Gulf Coast a position on the A-Sun All-Tournament Team after averaging 16.0 points and seven rebounds Eagles history to score 1,000 points and the per game in tournament play. first FGCU player to score both 1000 points
20 As a young team led by Chase Fieler, Sherwood Brown and Brett Comer, FGCU came into their first game at Wells Fargo Arena in Philadelphia against No. 2 seed Georgetown. Georgetown, who had now NBA player Otto Porter, was just coming off a tough loss to No.19 ranked Syracuse a week before. The Eagles came out and shocked the world when they controlled a two-point halftime lead over the Hoyas. A flying one-handed alleyoop dunk by Chase Fieler with 1:54 left put an emphatic exclamation point on the game and brought the crowd to its feet. Sherwood Brown had 24 points and Bernard Thompson finished with 23, while FGCU scored 54 points in the second half and sent the Big East regular-season champion Hoyas home early. The highlights from that game would grace the cover of every sports media show and paper in the country. “Dunk City” was born and FGCU suddenly became a household name. FGCU would continue their exciting run when they took on No. 7 seed San Diego State. A back and forth game from the start, the Eagles continued their dominance against the Aztecs. The Eagles trailed by five points going into the first half, but they managed to keep it close and found themselves trailing by just one heading into halftime. The Green and Blue raced to a double-digit lead midway through the second half with a 17-0 run. Fueled by the crowd in attendance, FGCU would hang on for the 10-point win. Their next game would match them up with No. 3 seed Florida, proving to be a very tough squad throughout the year.
Unfortunately their season would come to a close, as the Eagles weren’t able to make their way past the third round. Still, FGCU still holds the record as the first No. 15 seed to ever make it to the Sweet Sixteen.
Graphic by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
Men’s and Women’s 2020-2021
Basketball Preview Men’s New Players: Guard Franco Miller, Jr.: Miller transferred to FGCU in June after attending Ole Miss during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. In his two seasons at Ole Miss, Miller redshirted as a true freshman during the 201819 campaign and played in 19 games last year. He averaged 7.3 minutes per game with season-highs of four points against Arkansas State and six rebounds against Texas A&M. “Having Franco be immediately eligible is a big boost to our line-up this season and adds another veteran player who has experience in high-level competition,” said Head Coach Michael Fly. Forward Eli Abaev: Abaev transferred to FGCU prior to the 2020-21 campaign and will be immediately eligible for his final collegiate season. In 27 minutes last season, Abaev averaged 7.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and shot 56.4 percent from the field. He is from Deerfield Beach and played at Eastern Florida State, a junior college, before transferring to Austin Peay. He redshirted the 2018-19 season due to an injury. Forward Zach Anderson: Anderson is coming into his freshman year at FGCU, after leading his high school team to the District 9A-3 semifinals in the 2018-2019 season. He is a versatile player who can play as a wing or a
skilled four man. “Zach is coming to us from Apopka High School – the Orlando area has been very good to us in recruiting. He is a 6-foot-7 swing player that can play the three or the four, who can really put the ball on the deck, and is a good athlete,” says Coach Fly.
Women’s New Players: Maddie Antenucci: Antenucci was a 2020 graduate of Indian Hill H.S. in Cincinnati, Ohio, who will join the Eagles as a freshman. She averaged 17.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, three steals, 1.7 assists and 1.6 blocks per game as a senior while totaling four double-doubles and shooting 36 percent from 3-point range. Antenucci was named the CHL Player of the Year, Cincinnati Division II Player of the Year, First Team All-City, First Team SWO District and First Team All-Ohio. “Maddie has great skills offensively. She is a high-level shooter and a great finisher around the rim,” Head Coach Carl Smesko says. Tomia Johnson: Johnson hails from Grandview H.S. in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she earned Second Team All-Centennial League and led her team to three-straight Class 5A state final four appearances. Her Grandview squad would again be playing in the state championship game in 2020, but the game was cancelled due to circumstances related to COVID-19. As many of the FGCU’s guards have departed, Johnson looks to find a solid role in
By Jake Henning Sports Editor
their rotation. “Tomia is a 5’6″ point guard who is super quick. But not only that, she can really shoot the 3 as well,” says Coach Smesko. Andrea Cecil: Cecil poured in 874 points during her career at Bowling Green and will have one season of eligibility remaining as a graduate transfer with FGCU in 2020-21. She looks to follow in a long line of successful FGCU graduate transfers. As a Junior, she continued to improve, averaging 16 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. She also shot 40% from 3 and 89% from the free throw line. “Andrea is an exceptional shooter and is a very smart player. She can score in so many ways. She could definitely be a very productive player for us,” said Coach Smesko.∎
Photo by Julia Bonavita
22 Club of the Month:
SWIM By Nina Mendes News & Features Editor
they will be lifted in the spring. The College Club Swimming (CCS) organization is hopeful too. The organization is already promoting its annual National Championship on April 9-11, 2021, at Georgia Tech. FGCU senior Logan Miller qualified for nationals last year, but the meet was canceled because of the COVID-19 shutdown.
T
hings look a lot different behind the blocks at FGCU/Lee County’s Aquatic Center this semester. Club Swim has had to adapt to new COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions set by the university and the Sport Clubs organization. The team has implemented various protective procedures like requiring face masks on the pool deck, limiting lane occupancy, sanitizing equipment and maintaining social distancing to keep swimmers safe. Everyone must also complete the daily COVID-19 screening questionnaire and show their green check mark to an officer at the start of practice. Although the transition was an adjustment at first, the team is happy to be back in the water. “It’s a little more challenging this year because it doesn’t feel like the full experience, but I am still grateful to have this position,” Club Swim President Caitlin Swan said. Travel restrictions have been placed on all club sports this semester, but Swan is hopeful
Photo By: Julia Bonavita
“I trained hard with the hope of being able to compete, but I was devastated when I heard the news,” Miller said. “I graduate in December, and it’s upsetting that I won’t be able to end my swim career the way I always wanted.” Without meets to look forward to this fall, it has been hard for some swimmers to stay motivated. That mindset is sometimes reflected in the club’s attendance, but Swan is determined to keep participants active and engaged. The team includes activities into practice, like relay races, to promote team-bonding with its members. “I choose to keep coming to practice so I can work hard with a group of people who I now consider to be my family,” freshman Brandon Cominsky said. “We have balanced training while having fun outside of the water, as well.” Despite the challenges, Club Swim is committed to providing students with a healthy athletic outlet open to everyone. “Our team is really accepting, and we’ll help you learn the strokes and techniques,” Swan said. “Swimming is something I’ve been passionate about for a while, and I’m thankful I get to continue that passion by leading the team.”∎
A Letter from
23
the Editor By Nathan Wilson Executive Editor
I
t is spooky season, all you ghost ghouls and goblins. It is the time of the year, where we talk about what scares us the most. Fear is no laughing matter, but one cannot help to laugh when it comes to some of these phobias. Anatidaephobia is the fear of being watched by a duck or goose. I bet the grade school games “Duck, Duck, Goose” was a nightmare. The next phobia is something I suffer from as a college student— Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia, also known as the fear of long words. It will take a lot more than a spoon full of sugar to help this
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mouthful of a word to go down. Finally, Papaphobia or the fear of the Pope. So, I guess that makes praying the fear away a little more complicated. For me, the spookiest thing here at Florida Gulf Coast University is the loss of spring break… rest in peace Lani Kai. Now to get a little more serious during these difficult times. We can become overwhelmed with fears and anxiety, but it is essential to know that we are not alone and that others may be going through the same thing in times of trouble. Counseling and psychological services are an excellent resource for those who may be feeling overwhelmed, especially during spooky times such as this. As always, stay safe, stay masked, and stay spooky.∎
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