Issue 12 Fall 2021

Observer

Wrapping Paper

the

@fordhamobserver

www.fordhamobser erver.com

Pages 8-9

December 8, 2021 VOLUME XLI, ISSUE 12

Presidential Search Continues

By MARYAM BESHARA News Editor

a variety of lights, decorations and inflatables were set up throughout the plaza, setting the holiday mood while the students mingled.

Robert D. Daleo, chair of the Board of Trustees, updated members of the Fordham community in an email on Nov. 29 on the ongoing search for the university’s next president. Daleo provided a link to the university’s Leadership Profile, which includes information regarding desired characteristics for the future university president.

WittKieffer, a company hired by Fordham to lead the search, has held 30 listening sessions since the beginning of the academic year, along with members of the search committee. In the email, Daleo includes that the listening sessions were open to faculty members, staff, students, trustees, key donors, alumni and parents to attend.

Sean de Ganon, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’22 and a senior senator for United Student Government, expressed that he found the listening sessions to be held at inconvenient times for students since they conflicted with classes.

“I have heard only cursory updates, not anything else,” he said. “I am graduating, so this will not necessarily affect me, but it will affect other students. I do worry for them.”

see TREE LIGHTING page 13

see PRESIDENT page 5

MOLLY HIGGINS/THE OBSERVER

Students and staff gather on the plaza as the tree is lit after receiving festive gifts, hot chocolate and more.

Tree Lighting Kicks Off Holiday Season at LC

By SABRINA VIDAL Contributing Writer

Approximately 800 students gathered in the plaza to celebrate the annual United Student Government (USG) Christmas tree

lighting on Thursday, Dec. 2.

Joe VanGostein, Gabelli School of Business at Lincoln Center (GSBLC) ’22 and USG president, said the goal of the event was to “bring as many different parts of the community

together,” which included partnering with the Office of Alumni Relations and inviting the Chamber Choir and F-Sharps to sing at the tree lighting.

Thanks to a donation from the Office of Alumni Relations,

New Director of Residential Life Hired

By ALLIE STOFER News Editor

After the search for a new director of Residential Life (ResLife) began in June, Greg Jones was hired in late November. Jenifer Campbell, the former director, was promoted to a new role as dean of students at Lincoln Center.

Jones was born in the Bronx, but, at the age of six months, his family moved to Farmington, Connecticut where he grew up.

He received his bachelor of arts in history from Haverford College in Pennsylvania and went on to earn a master’s degree in higher education administration and policy from Northwestern University in Illinois.

While earning his master’s, Jones met his husband, Adam.

They then moved back to the East Coast in the Boston area.

Since graduating from Northwestern, Jones has worked at both Brandeis University and Boston College (BC). For the past six

years, he worked at BC as director of housing operations, where he was in charge of 30 resident halls and about 7,500 students. Jones expressed that the experience has helped prepare him for his new position at Fordham Lincoln Center for multiple reasons.

“There are always many perspectives and opinions, and I’ve found it important to try to avoid making decisions hastily,” he said. “I’ve learned in my time working in residential life that no two days are identical, that plans often change, and that something will happen that could not be predicted. Maintaining a positive outlook is key, but planning for the worst is a necessity.”

Jones moved to Brooklyn in mid-August after his husband received a job offer to work for a theater company. He now lives in the Sunset Park neighborhood with his husband and their two dogs, Berry and Huck. see RESLIFE page 5

COURTESY OF FORDHAM ATHLETICS

Anna DeWolfe, FCRH ’23, scored 28 points against the Tigers in a season-high performance.

Women’s Basketball Notches Fourth Straight Home Win

By GABRIELLA BERMUDEZ Asst. Sports & Health Editor

The Fordham women’s basketball team defeated the Princeton University (PU) Tigers 7667 on Saturday, Dec. 5. Entering this game, the Tigers were 6-1 for the season with their only loss being a 61-53 game against

the University of Rhode Island.

Julia Cunningham, PU ’23, began the first quarter with a strong drive to score a basket for the Tigers. Immediately after, Anna DeWolfe, Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) ’23, mirrored the scoring play. In the next two minutes, DeWolfe scored all five of Fordham’s points.

The Rams and Tigers were two evenly matched teams offensively. But it was Fordham’s defense, especially the multifaceted efforts of Kendell Heremaia, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) ’23, that kept Princeton from finding successful shots. see WOMEN’S BASKETBALL page 7

News

Features

Sports & Health

Opinions: Rubberneck

Arts & Culture

Fordham Flirts

Sexual Assault

Marie Clark Taylor

Breezing Through

The Fordham Rockette

Page 2

Page 4

Page 6

Page 12

Page 15

The account’s creator discusses the sensitive nature of the posts

Students raise concern over sexual assault policies

Fordham alum makes history in field of botany

Finals are no walk in the park, but they can be

The Student Voice of Fordham Lincoln Center

Ailey graduate takes the stage at Radio City

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December 8, 2021 THE OBSERVER

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Fordham Flirts Creator Speaks On Take-Down Requests

The Rose Hill underclassman elaborates on the account’s content guidelines in an interview with The Observer

By MARYAM BESHARA and CHLOE ZELCH News Editor and Asst. News Editor

Fordham Flirts, an Instagram account started by a Rose Hill underclassman at the end of September, shares anonymous crush confessions by Fordham students with the public. The submissions include flirts made to other Rams through SurveyPlanet, a link in the account’s bio where students can write their captions without being identified. As of Dec. 7, the account has 2,140 followers.

The owner of the account, who is choosing not to disclose their name to keep the account anonymous, posts multiple times a day, with each post containing several slides of submissions.

They were inspired after a phone call with a friend from home revealed a similar account created at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota where students were able to sub-

mit light-hearted flirts to an Instagram account.

“We were calling to catch up, and he said that he had been receiving a lot of flirts on St. Olaf flirts lately, and I was like, what the hell is that?” the creator of the account said. “I started looking at Fordham accounts and was like, we do not have this. So, I just decided to create one and see what happens.”

Fordham Flirts typically posts short statements from students anonymously expressing romantic interest in other students. Many of the posts are vague, such as “To the cute boy in the red and black plaid flannel looking backpack, drop your (Instagram handle) and let me hit on you.”

A few weeks after creating the account in early September, Fordham Flirts began gaining almost 100 followers a day. They receive an average of 15 submissions per day and try to post three to four of them.

The owner reads each submission prior to posting and makes an

@f

_flirts m a h d or

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION

BY MADDIE SANDHOLM /THE OBSERVER

effort to remove any that may be inappropriate, although they admit that sometimes they go through them fast and things slip through the cracks. The account’s biography includes a message to followers saying: “If anyone wants a post removed for any reason, please DM this account.”

“It is helpful that people point out if something makes them uncomfortable,” the owner said. “I do feel bad of course when that happens and I work to delete those things as fast as I can.”

Submissions that include sexualizing or fetishizing language are not often called for removal, according to the creator of the account.

Juliette Miliani, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’22, was made aware of a post about her through a class GroupMe. The post identified her as presenting in class that week and that they sat near the anonymous person. The person who posted about Miliani later identified himself in the GroupMe. “I did not talk to him about the post, he messaged me but I was not interested in that way,” said Miliani. “Honestly, it is flattering that someone took the time to write and send that in hopes that you notice them, although I prefer to just be approached in person.”

Since the account uses SurveyPlanet as an anonymous platform, the owner is unaware of who submits the flirts and relies on the followers to communicate any discomfort or report any harassment that occurs.

“Often enough, it is a creepy dude who has already been creepy

enough in person and is now using Fordham Flirts to kind of harass someone, in which case I am not going to allow that to go on if I can possibly stop it,” the owner said.

Fordham Flirts removes content if anyone directly messages the account for any reason asking for the removal of a post that makes them feel uncomfortable. However, they are unable to do more as the initial submissions are anonymous. “(Fordham Flirts) being anonymous is part of the thing, so I would not feel comfortable making it so that it is not anonymous just so that I can figure out who those people are,” they said.

The owner estimated that one out of every eight posts is asked to be taken down. In those situations, the owner of the account deletes the post entirely and reposts it with the missing slide along with other posts around the same time so followers do not get confused and see repeated submissions on their timeline.

Submissions that include sexualizing or fetishizing language are not often called for removal, according to the creator of the account.

“Often enough, what people object to is not something sexualizing or fetishizing but rather something that seems not harmful,” the creator said. “Someone says ‘this person bothers me in person’ or ‘I already have a partner and he or she is uncomfortable with this being up’ or they will say ‘my friend is doing this, and I hate them’ so in those cases I take it down of course.”

The owner explained that they have not had to monitor the comments as he has not been aware of any comments on posts that were inappropriate.

Bella Sabino, Fordham College at Rose Hill ’24, has been frequently posted about on the Fordham Flirts page, identified as Bella S. “I don’t exactly remember seeing the first post about me

but I think it happened in about early October. I remember being super flattered and happy that someone sent in a flirt about me, but there are so many Bella S’s on campus and so I didn’t take the flirt too personally because it could have been about someone else,” Sabino said.

Sabino said that she knows one or two of the flirts have been submitted by her best friend, but does not know who is sending in the rest.

After many posts were made about Bella S, several people began submitting flirts identifying themselves as Bella S. “I had to reach out to the admin because people started to send in flirts claiming to be me, but it obviously wasn’t me,” Sabino said. “They would say things like “I’m Bella S and I think …” or “it’s me Bella S …” So, I reached out to the admin saying to not post any of the ones who are claiming to be Bella S.” Overall, Sabino enjoys the page and trusts the admin to post responsibly. She stated that she appreciated how the owner only posts flirts that are unlikely to make someone feel uncomfortable and is willing to delete posts if someone wants them to be taken down.

“I really like the page because it’s super sweet. All of the kind comments about me make me incredibly happy and sometimes they really make my day so much better,” Sabino said.

Miliani expressed that she also enjoys the page but does not take it too seriously.

“I think it’s a funny page and very much for joking around but I wouldn’t use it or take it seriously for flirting or dating,” Miliani said.

If any students feel harassed or threatened by posts on social media, contact Public Safety at 212-636-6076.

USG Reviews Fall Semester Accomplishments

VanGostein and Pulatani reflect on the two new committees created as well as reforms on campus

By SOFIA VAN NATTA Contributing Writer

Following the first semester back on campus after a year, president of the United Student Government (USG) at Lincoln Center Joe VanGostein, Gabelli School of Business at Lincoln Center ’22, reflected on his accomplishments and fulfillment of campaign promises so far.

One part of the semester that VanGostein mentioned he was proud of is the USG 2021 elections, which for the first time in nine years, filled every open position.

“This year 25 people ran for three elective spots whereas last year only two people ran,” he said.

USG has undergone many changes this past semester, including no longer holding meetings in mock trial fashion. The mock trial styled meetings were meant to simulate a professional political setting. VanGostein noted this change affected the participation at meetings compared to when he first joined USG. “During my freshman year I was too scared to speak up in meetings since it was so formal,” VanGostein said. Now all 25 of Lincoln Center’s USG members sit in a circle on the floor to discuss their ideas and goals for Fordham.

VanGostein runs his meetings with his own personal style.

Meetings are far more informal, or according to him — inviting.

He encourages icebreakers, like chubby bunny, to stimulate nat-

ural conversation between every USG member.

Megha Thyagarajan, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’25, and first-year senator, enjoys the change in atmosphere at USG and feels that the difference in class years does not contribute to any sense of divide.

“ As chairman of

CSM — I am very interested in working toward a greater form of campus community, where we hold one another accountable for our actions. ”

Djellza Pulatani, FCLC ’24 and vice president of USG

This semester, USG approved two new committees, one committee for sexual misconduct (CSM) and another for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Djellza Pulatani, FCLC ’24 and vice president of USG, is the current chair of CSM and spearheaded the committee’s advocacy for victims of sexual misconduct.

“I have a lot of informative events planned in the future that will be informative and hopefully will help create a very safe space

for all members,” Pulatani said.

“As chairman of CSM — I am very interested in working toward a greater form of campus community, where we hold one another accountable for our actions.”

VanGostein and members of USG approved the diversity, equity and inclusion support group by reaching out to heads of cultural and social identity clubs, as well as The Observer, to raise issues their clubs are experiencing.

Thyagarajan wants to host an activity-based compassion seminar where people of all backgrounds have a space to come together and share their experiences.

In addition to forming new committees, VanGostein also continued the tradition of hosting the inaugural picnic for incoming first-years and planned a networking dinner to form inter-club connections.

VanGostein and Pulatani encourage the student body to email them ideas they may have for new events or reforms. Both of the club leaders make a point to consistently check their inboxes and quickly respond or follow-up with students. There is currently a take-one, leave-one library in the works for next semester, where students can take a book that they are interested in reading and later replace it with a book they would recommend for someone else to read.

From this semester, VanGostein is proudest of USG’s steps toward sustainability on

ANDREW DRESSNER/THE OBSERVER

Joe VanGostein, president of USG, reflects on the accomplishments of USG this semester such as the formation of two new committees and the candidate turnout for the 2021 USG election.

campus. He encouraged Ram Cafe and Argo Tea to start using paper straws and biodegradable cutlery, renewed composting programs in McKeon and McMahon and canceled the use of plastic USG-branded pens.

“These pens are just going to be discarded, adding to plastic waste on campus,” VanGostein

said. “Also, it helps save the school a bit of money.”

Overall, VanGostein said he was happy with the positive changes this semester. VanGostein said that he looks forward to continuing his work making Fordham Lincoln Center an informed, inclusive and inviting place.

www.fordhamobserver.com

THE OBSERVER December 8, 2021

News

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Fordham Administration Rejects Student-Led Pass/Fail Petition

Receiving over 1,459 signatures, the petition sought to extend the pass/fail deadline in light of the pandemic

By ZAYIN TILLEY Contributing Writer

After a year of online and hybrid learning models, Fordham held a fully in-person fall 2021 semester. Students concerned about this transition created a petition on Change.org for the extension of the pass/fail option until the end of the fall semester.

The petition, despite accumulating 1,459 signatures as of Dec. 7, was rejected on Dec. 3 in an email from the deans at Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC).

“ We are calling on

Fordham through this petition to keep that standard and that consistency. And in times of transition, such as right now, to implement something that would help all of these students. ” John Lonie, FCLC '22 and creator of petition

The petition highlights the difficult transition back to in-person learning, with online learning leaving students unprepared and overwhelmed. In light of these factors, it concludes that it would be inadvisable to maintain pre-pandemic grading and attendance policies.

ALYSSA DAUGHDRILL/THE OBSERVER

John Lonie created the petition to extend the pass/fail option to help students handle the transition from online to in-person classes this semester.

John Lonie, FCLC ’22, said that he and some friends created the petition in mid-October after hearing from multiple students that they were feeling very stressed and anxious about COVID-19 exposure in classes.

“A lot of people (were) experiencing social anxiety, worry about contracting the virus in

school (and) a lot of health issues as well,” he said.

Lonie explained that they are asking for the same pass/ fail deadline extension available in spring 2020, when Fordham implemented the option to help students handle the switch in learning modality. The petition asks Fordham to be consis-

tent and accommodating with their policies.

“We are calling on Fordham through this petition to keep that standard and that consistency,” Lonie said. “And in times of transition, such as right now, to implement something that would help all of these students.”

Lonie expressed that he understands the pass/fail option is only a temporary solution and recommends that the university work on implementing longterm measures to help students succeed. He advocated for the expansion of counseling services so that all students can receive the help they need.

The petition is only calling for this option to be created for the fall semester, as the creators believe that students will be adjusted and able to better handle in-person classes in the spring.

In the email stating the dean's decision, Laura Auricchio, dean of FCLC, informed the student body: “the University has decided it would be both unfair and detrimental to our students to alter the P/F policy at this late point in the semester.”

The first reason that Auricchio gave for this decision was that many students had already chosen to withdraw from classes rather than receive a low letter grade. She explained that if they were to introduce the pass/ fail option now, those students would be upset.

Auricchio also noted that when the option was created in the spring, Fordham was able to do so because so many universities were extending the option to their students. As there is

no widespread pass/fail option occurring now, the deans explained that it would place “students at a disadvantage in applications to law schools, medical schools and other competitive post-graduate endeavors.”

In response to this reason, Lonie said that he believes anyone can understand that the transitional period from online to in-person learning was difficult for people. Lonie asked for students who may not need the pass/fail option to “support us in a compassionate way” by understanding the outside pressures that some students have.

The deans’ email recognized the traction the petition gathered, which was reflective of a strong desire among Fordham students for “greater flexibility in grading options” and announced that both the pass/fail and withdrawal without failing grade deadlines would be extended until April 22 for the spring 2022 semester.

Following the deans’ statement, organizers of the petition released an update requesting that the university reverse its decision. They also addressed some of the deans’ reasons for not offering the pass/fail option. The organizers noted the presence of the omicron variant in NYC and student support for the petition as reasons to implement the policy.

The update also appealed for leniency in the university’s grading policy as the semester concludes.

The addendum to the petition concluded with an appeal to Fordham’s Jesuit values: “Care for the whole student. Implement our request.”

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Fordham’s Response to Sexual Misconduct

On a survey circulated by The Observer, many students said they were unaware of the resources available to them

By ALLIE STOFER and MARYAM BESHARA News Editors

Trigger Warning: This article discusses individual experiences reporting cases of sexual and related misconduct at Fordham.

Throughout the fall 2021 semester, The Observer conducted a survey on student experiences with reporting cases of sexual misconduct to various departments within the university. The survey began circulating on Oct. 12 and submissions were kept completely anonymous. The survey received 31 responses.

Fordham defines sexual assault as “physical sexual acts against another person that include vaginal, anal or oral sexual intercourse with another person, touching sexual or intimate parts of another person, or inserting a foreign object, however slight, into any sexual or intimate parts of another person.” The university also defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including but not limited to “sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.”

Lack of Awareness of Resources Available In the survey, students were asked if they utilized resources provided by Fordham when reporting cases of sexual and related misconduct. Several students noted that they were unaware of the resources available to them and did not know the steps they could take to report cases of sexual misconduct or how to ask for assistance.

“Until the survey asked me this just now, I didn’t even know that I could report this incident to public safety and there would be a reason/action,” an anonymous student said.

Jenifer Campbell, dean of students, discussed options available to students as well as information regarding access to resources. According to Campbell, orientation for first-year and transfer students and floor meetings for residents are expected to include an overview of available resources. Additionally, she mentioned that there are incidental meetings offered by clubs in the student involvement area that talk about sexual misconduct and resources available.

Starting from Nov. 15, the Gender Equity and Title IX Coordinator, Division of Student Affairs, and Department of Public Safety began circulating a Sexual and Related Misconduct Campus Climate Survey. Campbell said the survey is meant as a benchmark for the administration to get a feel for how much students know about the resources available to them and an idea on student experience with Title IX and sexual misconduct.

“As much as we can in terms of being resources and getting the information to all students so they can be a resource to those individuals who may not be aware of what’s available to them in terms of support, I think it (the survey) just helps us overall in making certain that everyone has what they need in terms of information and know where they can go if they have a situation,” Campbell said.

The email in which the university's survey was sent linked additional information and a guide for Fordham students. In Fordham’s policy statement regarding sexual and related misconduct, the university pledges to maintain a community where members are in an environment that is free from all sex- and gender-based discrimination.

Reporting to Title IX and Public Safety Three students who responded to the survey stated that a reason they chose not to report sexual misconduct was due to the fear of having to retell their story multiple times. Students expressed that reporting seemed like it would be worse for their mental health as they would have to keep remembering the event.

“What I know of the Title IX rules is that they are rigid and rightfully need a lot of evidence but it is easier for me to try to forget the whole incident than to go through all the procedures because I don’t think that will help me feel better,” an anonymous student said about their decision not to report to the Title IX coordinator.

Other students echoed this concern of reporting making the situation more difficult.

“It also seems like too much hassle and mental drain to me for it to be anywhere near worth it,” another anonymous student said about choosing not to report to Public Safety.

Campbell explained that this is something the university considers with their protocols. When training Resident Assistants to be mandatory reporters, Campbell noted that they are taught to get minimal information. This is so that the individual does not have to retell their story multiple times, as they will have to tell it to Public Safety if they chose to make a report.

“We try at all ends to stop individuals from having to tell their stories more than one time to any individuals on campus,” Campbell said.

Fordham also ensures that if a student chooses to report, they have their administrative support person with them when making their statement, according to Campbell.

COURTESY OF LORYN WILLIAMS

After two instances of Fordham mishandling sexual assault allegations, a rally was held on Dec. 4 in the Bronx which was organized by the Instagram account fu.dobetter.

Reporting to CPS Another resource available to students is Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), which is a confidential option. In the survey, some students expressed that they were satisfied with the services provided by CPS but that their sessions ran out too quickly, as when they went through the process, CPS only offered 10 free sessions to students. Now, CPS determines the number of sessions based on the needs of the student.

One student noted that their experience with their counselor was positive, but when they initially called CPS, that was not the case.

“When I had initially told her that I did not want to give her my name (I) just wanted to call and find out what my options were, she got very annoyed with me,” they said.

One student also mentioned their concern over the amount of steps needed to file a report.

“It seems like more work to me to dwell on it,” another anonymous student said.

CPS did not respond to The Observer’s request for comment.

Fordham Student Response Fordham has been receiving more attention regarding their alleged failings to address sexual assault and harassment complaints during the fall 2021 semester. A new Instagram account called fu.dobetter was created by three juniors at Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH). Ellen Sweeney, Maddie Newall and Hannah Quinn, made the account and organized a rally a week later to take a stand against sexual misconduct at Fordham. The rally

COURTESY OF ELLEN SWEENEY

The rally was intended to increase visibility of the misconduct and promote a response from Fordham.

took place on Fordham Plaza on Dec. 4 in the Bronx following two reports of Fordham mishandling allegations of sexual assault.

“We figured that a real life action would be best to increase visibility and usher a response from the university,” Sweeney said.

The first lawsuit came from allegations of Fordham covering up sexual assault allegations against a former student. In the second lawsuit, a Fordham student called Fordham’s decision to find her alleged rapist not liable, “clearly biased and unsupported by the testimony and evidence it had discovered.”

Newall explained that after starting the Instagram account, they also realized how many students related to the issue.

“We kind of realized how much the issue resonated with students at Fordham so then that was a bigger catalyst for really wanting to do this,” Newall said.

Sweeney, Newall and Quinn created an anonymous Google form for students to share their thoughts regarding Fordham’s response to sexual misconduct and their experience with the resources available at Fordham in order to get an idea of what was wrong and what needed to change.

One aspect that the anonymous Google form indicated needed changing was with counseling services. The form revealed issues with CPS and how they handle cases.

“People were saying there were issues with CPS and how

they handled victims cases in an inexperienced way that they gave responses you would not want from a psychological counselor,” Sweeney said.

The organizers stated that the anonymous Google form also revealed that many students found the investigative process unclear. Very few people said the process made them feel better or that the accused were punished in any way.

Quinn said that many students noted they were upset because the Title IX office does not provide a way for students to give feedback regarding their experiences.

“I feel like there is a pretty general distrust of the processes of Title IX at Fordham, just from hearsay or people not wanting to go through with it because it is scary,” Quinn said.

Sweeney noted that there is not one factor that can be blamed for sexual misconduct on Fordham's campuses.

“All the incidents we know about are isolated and unrelated to each other but that shows us that this is a pervasive problem across all grades and in all parts of the university which shows there is an underlying culture of sexual misconduct,” Sweeney said.

Newall noted that Bob Howe, vice president for communications, responded to News12, stating that the premise of the strike was not true and that Fordham has a “robust and fair Title IX and sexual misconduct policies and

procedures developed in compliance with relevant state and federal laws.” The organizers did not receive any communication from the university themselves.

Howe did not respond to The Observer’s request for comment.

Available Resources In the Student Life section of the Fordham website, the Caring for Students tab contains resources available to students and Campus Assault and Relationship Education (CARE).

Under this tab, Fordham states that the university responds to all sexual and related misconduct incidents with a trained response team. Students can contact Public Safety, the dean of students, the Title IX coordinator, the associate vice president for student affairs, the office of Residential Life, health services and counseling services. The office of human resources is also available as well as off-campus resources if needed.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault or harassment, the following outside resources are available for consult: NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault: (212) 514-7233.

The Empower Center: (212) 238-4906.

Additional resources are available through Women’s Justice NOW, a women-led organization advocating for change.

www.fordhamobserver.com

THE OBSERVER December 8, 2021

News

5

Aetna Sued for LGBTQ+ Discrimination

Columbia University’s Aetna student health plan denied Goidel and her partner coverage for fertility treatments

By CHLOE ZELCH Asst. News Editor

A Columbia University student is suing Aetna, Fordham’s student insurance provider, for discrimination against LGBTQ+ couples seeking fertility treatments. The plaintiff is covered by a Columbia student insurance plan with variations from Fordham’s.

Goidel v. Aetna Inc, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, was filed on Sept.

13 and alleges that Aetna treats LGBTQ+ couples differently when seeking fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Emma Goidel, the plaintiff, is covered through her spouse by Aetna’s health insurance plan for Columbia University students. Columbia’s Aetna plan covers rounds of IUI and IVF for couples that have tried conceiving for six or 12 months depending on the age of the mother.

Couples that cannot get pregnant through heterosexual intercourse must pay out of pocket for six or 12 months of IUI before receiving coverage for further treatments. Aetna refused to cover four unsuccessful IUI cycles, one unsuccessful IVF cycle, and one successful IUI cycle for Goidel and her partner. Goidel stated that she chose IUI despite lower effectiveness because IVF is more expensive.

"Aetna's discriminatory policy is an illegal tax on LGBTQ individ-

MONTGOMERY COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION VIA FLICKR

Aetna, the insurance company that provides Fordham’s student health plan, is being sued by a Columbia University student for discrimination against LGBTQ+ couples undergoing fertility treatment.

uals that denies the equal rights of LGBTQ individuals to have children," Goidel said in her complaint. "At best, these individuals incur great costs due to Aetna's policy language. At worst, these exorbitant costs are prohibitive and entirely prevent people who are unable to shoulder them — disproportionately LGBTQ people of color — from becoming pregnant and starting a family."

The suit alleges that Aetna’s policy violates section 1557 of

the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits healthcare discrimination based on “race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.”

In May, the Biden administration extended the reading of this section to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Goidel is also representing a class of people covered by Aetna student health plans in New York.

The suit identifies at least 17 New York schools with Aetna student

health plans that contain identical language to Columbia’s, such as Barnard College, the Fashion Institute of Technology and the New York Institute of Technology.

In total, these 17 schools enroll over 150,000 students who may be affected by Aetna’s policies. Fordham is not one of these 17 schools.

Fordham’s Aetna student health plan does not cover IVF, IUI or any other fertility treatments. Aetna states that the student health plan does not discriminate on the basis

of “sex/gender (including pregnancy)”, and that “Aetna is committed to being an inclusive health care company.”

In a press conference with The Observer and The Fordham Ram on Nov. 11, Father Joseph M. McShane, S.J. stated that he was not aware of the Aetna student health plan students must acquire or the ongoing lawsuit.

Adah Unachukwu, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ’23 and president of PRISM, the Lincoln Center campus’s LGBTQ+ club, does not believe that it is unethical for Fordham to continue partnering with Aetna.

“I think that Fordham can keep its ties with AETNA while also putting pressure on the corporation to stick by its promises and be willing to cut those ties if AETNA refuses to make things easier for its LGBTQ members,” Unachukwu said.

They said that if Fordham students feel they experienced healthcare discrimination as a result of their identity, they should seek help and share their experience.

“I think the most important thing to do is gather all the facts of your situation. It is really important to have in writing or as an email that the healthcare provider is refusing to treat you,” Unachukwu said. “I think this information can be taken to another healthcare provider or even an LGBTQ center and the people there can help you.”

Greg Jones Appointed as Residential Life Director RESLIFE from page 1

The process of finding a new ResLife director took five months.

Jones learned about the opportunity in mid-August, as he was moving from Boston to Brooklyn.

“The best opportunities almost always arise in the midst of chaos,” he said.

The position of ResLife director first drew Jones in as it seemed like the best next step for him. He explained that he also really likes that Fordham is a Jesuit university.

“I’m excited to continue working at a Jesuit institution,” he said.

“The emphasis on holistic education, caring for the whole person, and living authentically speak to my core values.”

Jones explained that the hiring process moved relatively quickly for him. He spoke with Campbell a few days after seeing the opening and then came to campus in mid-September and had the opportunity to speak with faculty, students and staff.

Campbell noted that Jones was chosen because his “skillset aligned with what we are trying to accomplish in terms of the department and the fact that he has a number of assets that will be helpful in moving the department forward.”

Jones said that he is excited to be at Fordham Lincoln Center for multiple reasons, including the small size of the college.

“As someone who attended a small liberal arts college, I’m excited to be working on a smaller, close knit campus,” he said. “It's also amazing that I get to work in one of the most vibrant parts of the city with some of the best artists and performers in the world just a few blocks away.”

As the outgoing director of ResLife, Campbell advised Jones to take time getting to know the university. She explained that this will give him the chance to “learn about Fordham and then know what it is he wants to change as it relates to the department.”

“I think he is going to be a great asset to the university,” she said.

Although Jones is aware that learning about a new campus will come with its challenges, he is eager to learn about Fordham’s campus culture.

“Every school has their own history, environment, culture, protocols, concerns, and idiosyncrasies,” Jones said. “I'm excited to learn about what makes Fordham and the Lincoln Center campus special and how I can help make the school a great place for everyone.”

ANDREW DRESSNER/THE OBSERVER

Greg Jones, the new ResLife director, is excited to be working in a Jesuit university with a holistic education and close-knit campus.

MOLLY HIGGINS/THE OBSERVER

McShane’s photo will soon join the other past Fordham presidents on the wall, and the university hopes to announce the next president in the spring.

Search Committee Is on Schedule to Announce Next University President PRESIDENT from page 1

On Sept. 13, WittKieffer held a listening session, asking those in attendance questions about what they hoped to see in the next university president. At this listening session, only 15 students attended. The subsequent listening sessions have followed the same format of discussion, with attendees having the opportunity to ask questions and to make comments about their aspirations for Fordham’s next president and the characteristics they would hope to see in a president.

Daleo included that members of the search committee asked for and received input on opportunities and challenges for the new president, as well as Fordham points of pride that should be mentioned with candidates.

The university states within the Leadership Profile that it seeks a visionary, collaborative and mission-driven leader to serve as its 33rd president. De Ganon said he would love a unifying president vetted by all parts of Fordham which includes the faculty, administration, support staff and students.

“I hear these concerns all the time. The next President needs to undertake comprehensive listen-

ing sessions — hear from all the vested groups and enact positive changes that reflect the mood of all parties at the University,” de Ganon said.

Through the Leadership Profile students can access a form to provide additional input and links to the previous listening sessions about the search.

Daleo updated that the search is proceeding on schedule. Under the procedure for candidacy section of the Leadership Profile, it is noted that candidates have until Dec. 6 to submit their applications through WittKieffer’s candidate portal to receive full consideration for the position.

“The committee, aided by the executive search firm WittKieffer, is assembling a diverse pool of talented candidates with Fordham’s academic mission, reputation, and Jesuit, Catholic character at the forefront of their efforts,” Daleo said in the email.

Rev. Joseph M. McShane, S.J., discussed his thoughts about his departure to both the Fordham Ram and the Observer in a student press conference on Nov. 11.

McShane said he was surprised by the low attendance rate.

The executive summary also highlights that the new president must be someone with demonstrat-

ed leadership experience in higher education and a deep knowledge of and ability to promote the Catholic, Jesuit mission.

In discussing his successor, McShane noted that nothing stands in the way of a lay person or a woman from being the next university president.

“A lay person would provide the real-world experience that in my view at least, Jesuits lack because they are priests,” de Ganon said.

At the press conference, McShane also told student journalists from both the Fordham Ram and the Observer that he excludes himself from any conversations about the new president in board meetings because he does not want anyone to think he is choosing his own successor. He said that he was interviewed by WittKieffer once but has removed himself from participating in the search further.

In the email, Daleo notified the Fordham community that he expects to give a following update in early January. The search committee is expected to present a candidate list to the Board of Trustees in early 2022 and intends to announce the university’s next president in the spring. McShane stated to the student press that he suspects and hopes the search will be done by March.

Sports & Health Editor Patrick Moquin Chris Murray sports@fordhamobserver.com

Sports & Health

December 8, 2021

THE OBSERVER

Remembering the Legacy of Marie Clark Taylor, Ph.D., a Trailblazing Female Botanist of Color

The first woman to earn a science Ph.D. at Fordham was also the first Black woman to earn a degree in botany

By GUS DUPREE Asst. Sports & Health Editor

Among the countless alumni who have earned a degree at Fordham University in its long history, Marie Clark Taylor stands out for a variety of reasons. Taylor became the first woman to ever earn a science doctorate at Fordham, receiving her Ph.D. in botany at the university’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) in 1941.

She became the first Black woman to ever hold such a degree in the field of botany.

Life Before the Ph.D. Marie Clark Taylor was born Marie B. Clark on Feb. 16, 1911 in Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania.

After graduating from Dunbar High School in 1929, Taylor enrolled at Howard University, a historically Black college in Washington, D.C. Taylor’s passion and curiosity for botany earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the subject in 1933 and 1935, respectively.

Taylor remained in D.C. for a few years after graduating from Howard. She became a high school science teacher at Cardozo High School, where she incorporated her knowledge of botany in her biology classes. Desiring to expand her knowledge while continuing to teach at Cardozo, she enrolled at Fordham to earn her Ph.D. in 1938.

Light and Flowers Fascinated by photosynthesis cycles and their effects on budding flowers, Taylor wrote her

COURTESY OF FORDHAM LIBRARIES

Taylor’s yearbook photo from her time at Fordham in 1941.

dissertation for her Ph.D. on the topic. Her doctoral dissertation, titled “The Influence of Definitive Photoperiods Upon the Growth and Development of Initiated Floral Primordia,” involved the study of varying periods of light and its effects on the primordium, the buds from where flowers grow from the stem.

Taylor designed a series of ex-

periments using three different flower species in order to “discover the influence of definite photoperiods of six, ten, and sixteen hours upon the inflorescences that develop from floral primordia exposed to these photoperiods.”

Taylor exposed different flowering plants to varying durations of light to test light’s influence on the plants’ rate that

they grew flowers. Taylor used the species Salvia splendens (scarlet sage), Cosmos bipinnatus (garden cosmos) and Cosmos sulphureus (orange cosmos) for her experiment.

Curious about the different effects that artificial light may have on plants as opposed to natural sunlight, Taylor subjected each of the plants to three different “photoperiods” where the plants received natural sunlight, with the last six hours of the 16-hour experiment being supplemented with artificial light.

Taylor found in her experiment that the scarlet sage bore flowers ideally under 10 hours, while 16 hours stunted its rate of growth at a similar rate to that of the six-hour trial. The two cosmos plants were found to have a linear relation between their growth rates and length of photoperiod; the longer the cosmos plant was exposed to sunlight, the more it would grow and flower.

Taylor noted how “Anomalous heads appeared in those inflorescences developed during the sixteen-hour photoperiod,” suggesting that cosmos plants are most adapted to around 10 hours of sunlight.

Life After Fordham With her dissertation accepted in 1941, the newly titled Marie Clark, PhD became the first woman to ever receive a science doctorate from GSAS, graduating cum laude.

Taylor wasted no time basking in her accomplishments, joining the Army Red Cross during the height of World War II. While stationed in New Guin-

ea, she met Richard Taylor, an infantryman for the all-Black 93rd Airborne division. They married in 1948.

After the war, she returned to Howard as an assistant botany professor. Taylor remained a notable professor there, and she founded its first botanical greenhouse laboratory. When she gave birth to her son in the summer of 1950, her students joked that she had planned the birth in advance to not coincide with final exams. She remained chair of Howard’s botany department until her retirement in 1976.

Besides her work at Howard, Taylor continued to teach biology to young students. She developed and implemented hands-on experiments for her students, sharing them with her fellow professors across the nation. Throughout the 1950s, Taylor expanded her role via summer science institutes which she proctored for high schoolers.

President Lyndon B. Johnson even acknowledged Taylor’s accomplishments and personally encouraged her to share them abroad in the 1960s.

Taylor passed on Dec. 28, 1990, at the age of 79. Howard University named a scholarship program after her, as well as an auditorium in Howard’s biology department hall. Taylor’s legacy extends beyond her scholastic achievements, and she is widely cited as the woman who brought interactive tools like light-microscopes to biology and botany students worldwide. The Fordham community remembers Taylor as a groundbreaking graduate student who overcame the obstacles around her.

Well-Being and Productivity: Mindfulness Meditation’s Role in Your Life

Studies show that adopting mindfulness meditation as a daily habit can be an answer to stress

By AASTHA AGGARWAL Asst. Features Editor

If you ever wanted to know what allows successful people to achieve their maximum potential, lean into the habit of mindfulness meditation.

What Is Meditation?

Meditation is the ability to quiet the mind by focusing on one’s self. This ability to constantly focus on the present moment while observing one’s thoughts endows one with mental clarity and a delayed response to stress.

Meditation has a strong impact on the amygdala, a brain region which controls the fight-or-flight response to stressful situations.

In his book “The Power of Neuroplasticity for Pastoral and Spiritual Care,” Kirk Bingaman, an associate professor of pastoral care and counseling at Fordham, describes the effect that the negativity bias has on our well-being. Negativity bias is defined as an adaptive mechanism which causes a person to overreact to a situation.

The negativity bias can cause one to react with fear to minor transgressions, leading to poor choices and behavior. This can be controlled by the power of neuroplasticity, which is the ability of

a new experience to structurally change the brain, generating new neural pathways and changing the existing ones.

According to Bingaman, mindfulness meditation can be a useful tool to harness the power of neuroplasticity. One can become aware of negative feelings and allow them to dissipate instead of reacting to them.

“Thoughts and feelings have a 90-second shelf life biochemically,” Bingaman said. “The key to mindfulness meditation is to let our thoughts come and go without fighting them.”

An Effective Meditative Method Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya, offered by the Isha Institute Of Inner Sciences, is a meditative technique that has been medically proven to reduce stress and increase cognitive function. The technique involves elements such as “pranayama,” or the practice of regulating one’s breath.

According to the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya is touted to provide numerous benefits.

“Another study in healthy students comparing slow, fast, and no pranayama for 12 weeks ... reported improved executive

function, perceived stress, and reaction time in both pranayama groups compared with controls,” the journal reported.

Medical studies and experiments show that mindfulness meditation techniques may be an answer to improved mental and physical well-being. But the problem lies in the ability to incorporate this habit into our daily schedule.

Mechanism of Adopting Daily Habits Certain habits may be healthy, while others, like excessive television usage, are detrimental to one’s well-being. It is important to identify healthy and unhealthy habits and make a conscious effort to include positive habits in our daily routine.

Healthy habits can be adopted using the “reminder, routine and reward” mechanism. A morning alarm or yoga mat in front of your bed are effective reminders, a routine is simply the consistent performance of an act, and a reward could be something as simple as a small snack after meditation. This mechanism, if practiced over a period of time, can aid in solidifying this habit. Given time, it could become a part of the unconscious mind as a daily occurrence with minimal effort.

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY ROXANNE CUBERO/THE OBSERVER

Developing a habit of mindfulness meditation can be effective in regulating stress.

Habits may seem to be a part of a subconscious mechanism; however, many subconscious behaviors can be influenced by conscious thought. We can aid our mental and physical health by adopting the habit of mindfulness meditation.

Mindfulness meditation can be an effective method of regulating stress and achieving peak performance. By building med-

itation practices and utilizing methods such as the “reminder, routine and reward” mechanism, practices to improve one’s well-being can become habitual.

Fordham has offered meditation and wellness workshops in the past, such as during the annual Ignatian Week, as well as at Spiritual Retreats in Goshen, New York, sponsored by Campus Ministry.

www.fordhamobserver.com

THE OBSERVER December 8, 2021

Sports & Health

7

Men’s B-Ball Falls 83-69 to St. John’s Red Storm

The Rams’ comeback effort in Queens fell short and the loss snapped a three-game win streak

By PATRICK MOQUIN and CHRIS MURRAY Sports & Health Editors

The Fordham men’s basketball team lost to the St. John’s University (SJU) Red Storm on Sunday, Dec. 1, 83-69. The Rams narrowed the Johnnies’ lead to single digits but could not overcome their opponent’s offensive onslaught.

As a former assistant at Villanova University, Fordham Head Coach Kyle Neptune has coached in more games against St. John’s than he has for Fordham. Neptune said that competing against the Red Storm as the Rams’ leader felt “very familiar.”

“ I thought, at times,

we buckled in, but we haven’t played against anyone who does that for 40 minutes. ”

Kyle Neptune, head coach

COURTESY OF FORDHAM ATHLETICS

Chuba Ohams dunks over Red Storm defenders. Despite their efforts, the Rams lost by 14 points to St. John’s.

St. John’s entered the contest as heavy favorites led by Big East stars Julian Champagnie, SJU ’23, and Posh Alexander, SJU ’24. Before their game against Fordham, the two averaged 21 and 16 points per game, respectively; Champagnie has been projected by many to be NBA-bound if he declares for the draft after the season. Fordham also faced former Ram Joel Soriano, SJU ’23, but the center played just eight minutes and was not very impactful.

The Red Storm’s aforementioned leaders overwhelmed

Fordham’s defense. Alexander finished the game with 23 points while Champagnie scored 16 and secured eight rebounds.

Montez Mathis, SJU ’22, added 16 points to a Red Storm offense that ended the night with an impressive 83 points.

“St. John’s just plays so hard the entire game. They never stop,” Neptune said. “They’re going to kick it ahead and keep coming, and we just weren’t ready for that. I thought, at times, we buckled in, but we haven’t played against anyone who does that for 40 minutes.”

Fordham made valiant efforts to keep up with its high-scoring counterpart. The Rams shot 32 three-pointers in the contest, tied for their most attempts in a game this season. This offensive adjustment seemed like an effective counter to the Red Storm’s firepower, but Fordham was only able to connect on 10 of their three-point shots. Nevertheless, the strategy led to a few runs that kept the Rams within striking distance.

Darius Quisenberry, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) ’22, nailed three

three-pointers in the first half and Kam’ron Cunningham, Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) ’23, added another two off the bench. With seven minutes left in the first half, the Rams trailed by just two points. But as Fordham began to miss shots, the Red Storm pulled away.

The Rams were outscored 17-6 over the final 6:30 of the first half and entered halftime 13 points behind. In the second half, it was Chuba Ohams’, GSAS ’22, turn to shoulder the offensive load.

After scoring just two points in the first, Ohams began attack-

ing the rim and finding success by getting to the free throw line.

He finished with 20 points while making 5-of-7 (71.4%) shots from the field as well as 9-of-10 (90.0%) at the line.

Efficient foul shooting by the Rams prevented the game from getting out of hand. Fordham shot 15-16 (93.8%) from the free throw line.

The trio of Ohams, Quisenberry and Antonio Daye Jr., FCRH ’23, combined to score 49 of Fordham’s 69 points, as Quisenberry finished with 16 while Daye added 13. But the Rams were unable to close the gap despite tapering the lead to just eight points with 7:39 remaining.

Even after a decisive victory over Fordham, St. John’s Head Coach Mike Anderson was complimentary of Neptune’s early days in the Bronx. He said that victories may come slowly early on, but the habits that the coach has instilled at Rose Hill will have a positive impact down the line.

“The most important thing when you take over a program is that you get your kids to compete and play hard,” Anderson noted.

“He has those kids playing hard, and that’s when the winning starts and the believing starts.”

Although the Rams lost, it is a step in the right direction that they appeared to belong on the same court as a St. John’s squad which previously faced teams like Indiana University and Kansas University this season. The loss leaves Fordham at 6-4 on the year, but the grit and resilience the Rams displayed bodes well for the future of the program.

Fordham will be back in action on Thursday, Dec. 9, when the team takes on the Long Island University Sharks at Rose Hill.

Women’s Basketball Defeats Princeton Tigers, 76-67

The Rams were pressed by the Tigers for four quarters, leading in a close game in the finish WOMEN’S BASKETBALL from page 1

Princeton had similar offensive tactics to Fordham, as both teams were able to keep an eye on every player on the court, except for Asiah Dingle, FCRH ’22. The only person who always seemed to know Dingle’s location on the court was Heremaia.

Ellie Mitchell, PU ’24, became inseparable from Heremaia, who was trapped. Debating her next move, Heremaia noticed Dingle in her peripheral vision as Dingle broke free from Princeton’s defense. Heremaia made a backhanded pass to the 5’4” guard, who then scored. Some rough defense by the Tigers sent Dingle to the line. Successfully earning four points in less than 20 seconds, Fordham led 12-7.

“ Great defensive effort against a really good Princeton team. Super proud of protecting our home court!”

Stephanie Gaitley, head coach

In recent games, Dingle has used her height to her advantage.

With less than four minutes remaining in the first, Dingle struggled to find an opportunity to either shoot or pass to a teammate as the Rams were hoarded by Tigers. But Dingle disappeared into the mesh of Rams and Tigers then

COURTESY OF FORDHAM ATHLETICS

The Ram’s cheer following the victory over Princeton. After a close game Fordham overcame Princeton’s late surge.

reemerged with a jump, landing Fordham a layup.

For the final minute of the quarter, Fordham was struggling to find a shot as the seconds on the shot clock dwindled. But Princeton cut the time even shorter with a steal. The Tigers hurried down the court to make a shot in the final 16 seconds.

Kaitlyn Chen, PU ’24, was guarded by 6’1” Kaitlyn Downey, Gabelli School of Business at Rose Hill ’22, so Chen was forced to take a jump shot. The quarter ended with Chen’s successful jumper, but Fordham maintained the lead, 23-13.

At the start of the second quarter, the dream team of DeWolfe, Dingle, Heremaia and Downey worked together to keep Princeton away from the basket.

On a key possession in the quarter, the ball rotated to each Ram, but it was not until a foul that Megan Jonassen, FCRH ’22, had a chance to make free throws.

Jonassen made one of two to give the Rams an 11-point lead, 26-15.

The end of the second quarter is when the trouble began for Fordham. Princeton’s defense left Fordham struggling to find a shot.

Meanwhile, the Tigers responded offensively by scoring eight unanswered points, prompting Head Coach Stephanie Gaitley to reinsert Dingle into the game.

To close the half, Chen held the ball at half court and waited for the time to run out before scoring two points in the last five seconds.

The quarter ended with Princeton behind Fordham, 33-31.

Throughout the third quarter, Meyers reasserted herself as Princeton’s lead scorer, averaging 18 points per game. Princeton began the quarter by inbounding the ball, with the pass falling into Meyers’ hands, who scored a three-pointer.

Princeton now held the lead for the first time since the opening basket.

But its lead did not last long, as Downey immediately nailed a three-point shot.

Heremaia’s play also improved as she displayed strength in the third. Heremaia cut through the middle of the paint with so much force that the Tigers did not even attempt to put themselves in front of her. Fordham was rebuilding their lead, 38-34.

Princeton attempted multiple threes, but Fordham’s defense put

immense pressure on the shooters.

Although there were only five Rams on the court, based on their rapid movements Princeton appeared as if they had an entire army on top of them.

Nonetheless, Princeton’s offense was able to handle the level of competitiveness as they took a 41-40 lead with five minutes remaining in the third.

But Downey and DeWolfe dominated the end of the third quarter. DeWolfe reached her third consecutive 20-point game with efficient shooting.

As the third quarter came to an end, Fordham worked around the paint looking for a shot, but Princeton stole the ball. The Tigers missed their ensuing shot opportunity and Downey secured the rebound. This led to DeWolfe making her 24th point of the game. The quarter ended with Fordham in the lead, 52-41.

In the fourth quarter, Meyers redeemed herself and scored 12 points with four back-to-back three-pointers in the last 60 seconds of the game. With increased efforts from Meyers and the rest of her teammates, Princeton’s score finished at 67. Yet their efforts were not enough to overcome the collective strength of DeWolfe, Heremaia and Dingle who secured the 76-67 victory.

“Great defensive effort against a really good Princeton team,” Gaitley reflected after the game, “Super proud of protecting our home court!”

Fordham’s next game is on Dec. 8 against the Manhattan College Jaspers, who are currently 4-3, at Rose Hill.

Opinions Editors Clara Gerlach Isabella Scipioni opinions@fordhamobserver.com

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Opinions

11

Space Junk Poses Threat to Life On and Off Earth

A look into the irresponsible accumulation of man-made objects in space and why the time to act is now MADELINE SINOVIC Staff Writer

On Tuesday, Nov. 16, I was sitting in my night class when my classmate looked at her phone and gasped. I glanced over inquisitively, and she turned her phone toward me to display an Apple News alert proclaiming that a Russian weapons test had created multiple pieces of space junk, threatening the Space Station.

I looked around the classroom, expecting to see a frenzy of panic and concern, but instead, the room was perfectly calm and silent. I was wondering why more people were not alarmed about the situation before reminding myself that stories akin to this are much too familiar.

Russia decided to test an anti-satellite defense weapon on Nov. 15. There was no logistical reason for this test, as no satellites orbiting over Russia were harmful. In fact, the satellite they destroyed, Cosmos 1408, was put in place by Soviet intelligence in 1982. The test was simply a reckless way to prove to the world that the Russian defense system has the ability to destroy a satellite if need be.

After firing a missile that destroyed the satellite, hundreds of thousands of pieces of debris were sent into orbit. Seven astronauts residing in the International Space Station (ISS) had to seek shelter to protect themselves as the spacecraft flew through the cloud of man-made debris.

ESA/ONIRIXEL VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Space junk poses a threat to the ISS and any other spacecraft in the atmosphere. It also can affect us, since it can hit GPS systems, military technology and more.

However, the threat presented by the fragmented satellite pieces did not end when the ISS made it through the cloud: This space junk will pose a threat to satellites, space missions and the sustainability of outer space for many years.

Space junk has been accumulating in space for years, but the issue has only recently been acknowledged. The earliest known piece of space junk resulted from the first human-made satellite, Sputnik 1. On Oct. 4, 1957, the satellite escaped Earth’s gravitational pull and marked the first permanent footprint from humans in space.

Fast forward 64 years, and now there are 23,000 known man-made fragments larger than about 4 inches — roughly the size of a credit card or bigger — floating around our planet. Furthermore, there are an estimated

500,000 pieces between 0.4 inches and 4 inches across that join those larger fragments in space.

Long story short: There is a lot of junk floating around us.

Besides a satellite leaving Earth’s orbit, there are many other reasons for the existence of unnatural objects in space: satellites colliding, tools from the ISS, pieces expelled from a rocket launch, etc.

Space junk is a major inconvenience to, and sometimes dangerous factor in, a spacecraft’s journey. If debris is in the way, the team must calculate the risk of staying on path and the probability of a collision. If they believe that the probability of a collision is low enough, they will execute a debris avoidance maneuver.

The ISS has conducted 29 debris avoidance maneuvers since 1999, including three in 2020.

Due to an increase in space junk, the rate at which debris avoidance maneuvers are necessary is rapidly increasing, making future space tourism or travel much more difficult, if not impossible.

Russia, in the same year that they needlessly put hundreds of thousands of pieces of space junk into orbit, had previously announced they would be returning to the moon. It is extremely contradictory and hypocritical to carelessly throw junk into space while also promising a future of space travel.

Aside from possibly taking away the chances of space tourism, space junk also threatens the functionality of satellites. According to NASA, “a 1 centimeter paint fleck is capable of inflicting the same damage as a 550 pound object traveling 60 miles per hour on earth.” There are roughly 523,000 pieces of man-made

debris, floating through a network of 1,738 satellites currently in orbit. This satellite network is crucial for modern communication, commerce, travel and security systems. Anyone else see a problem here?

As more and more space junk orbits Earth, many components of our society are at risk: GPS systems, airline routing systems, military technology, business and finance, weather tracking, and phone service. Needless to say, it is vital that we preserve the safety of satellites. The inconsiderate actions that lead to the accumulation of space junk hinders their protection.

As a young adult trying to make tentative plans and goals for my life, I am constantly aware of the shadow that our dying planet casts on my future. The trash and pollution we have generated for years has changed the trajectory of our planet and poses a potentially irreversible fate.

Many scientists, when discussing the grim future of our planet, demonstrate the hope for eventual habitation on other planets and space travel.

While this is very exciting, I can’t help but be pessimistic about the likelihood of it happening. Humanity is so careless about the destruction of our own planet that I suppose it only makes sense that the sustainability of space wouldn’t be respected either. This reckless attitude toward cluttering the space around Earth with man made objects is causing long-lasting damage, and I am tired of it.

There is no Space B.

Joe Manchin Must Stand Up for West Virginia

The senator’s prioritization of coal profit over climate and employment is hurting his own state AVA PEABODY Former Opinions Editor

President Joe Biden and the United States Congress have been heavily criticized for not pursuing climate action aggressively enough. The climate legislation that emerged from Biden’s first year in office was steadily diminished following pressure from Republicans and some Democratic senators, particularly Arizona Senator Kyrsten Sinema and West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin.

Most recently, Manchin opposed a $150 billion clean energy program which would have incentivized utility companies to use renewable energy instead of fossil fuels, accelerating the crucial transition away from coal and natural gas. Manchin’s unique power lies in the fact that he represents West Virginia, a state famous for its coal mines, as well as the fact that he chairs the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, where he can outweigh more eco-friendly opinions from members like John Hickenlooper and Bernie Sanders.

In response to Biden’s proposals, Manchin has argued that the legislation would be a waste of money as private companies are already moving in that direction. He ultimately succeeded in removing this vital element of Biden’s Build Back Better budget bill. Democrats could still try to pass this bill separately, but its most viable time has passed.

This sequence is part of a cycle: Democrats, in desperate attempts to gain a vote they need, repeatedly water down the initial legislation in order to make it more palatable to Republicans. This allows the influence of the coal industry,

GRAPHIC BY ROXANNE CUBERO/THE OBSERVER

through the vehicle of Manchin, to seep into the very congressional legislation which is supposed to regulate it. As the main obstacle to bills which would impact the whole country, Manchin is undermining an already tenuous attempt to represent the 77% of Americans who favor a transition away from fossil fuels to alternative sources of energy.

Even if we assume that opposing divestment from fossil fuels really would benefit the people of West Virginia, it might strike an onlooker as dubious that one man is allowed to choose one American state over the habitability of the world forever. Admittedly, a senator is only tasked with representing their state, not the globe. However, blocking a pivot to renewable energy in favor of clinging to coal does little to serve West Virginians anyway.

Although coal has remained part of the state’s brand, mining is no longer the backbone of West

Virginia: only 11,000 people are still employed by the coal industry, including miners and all the surrounding jobs. Transportation, education and government sectors employ significantly more people, all of which could be bolstered through clean energy initiatives.

Furthermore, the state is home to 40,000 people who are unemployed and who could stand to benefit from a revitalization of West Virginia’s economy through climate legislation — energy storage, electric vehicles and renewable energy like wind and solar power are all sources of job creation.

West Virginia itself has begun to reckon with the repercussions of global warming in the form of record-breaking floods that devastate roads, power stations, schools and homes. These floods are worsened by years of coal mining, which has removed the vegetation that historically has prevented large-scale flooding.

Manchin’s stance on coal is so oriented toward the interests of remote coal lobbyists that he continues lying to West Virginians by endorsing the idea that the coal industry does not contribute to global warming and, by extension, to the floods which endanger his constituents. In theory, he was given this governmental position because he was deemed suitable by West Virginians to represent their interests. In reality, he is using his power to prioritize his own profit. Manchin personally made $500,000 within the last year alone from coal production stock he owns and stands to benefit further if he remains politically uncommitted enough to win future elections. He is currently receiving more money from the fossil fuel industry than any other senator.

Manchin has situated himself at the behest of coal lobbyists, whose only goal is to steer him into policies which will prop up the dying coal industry and squeeze just one

more dollar out of it. The political and financial interests of Manchin and his supporting act inform the narrative that the people of West Virginia will always depend on coal to survive — a narrative bolstered by the American tendency to harken back to some mythical golden age and refuse to imagine a new future.

Manchin must be explicit about his views and the corporate lobbyists who fuel them, regardless of potential political consequences for him, because it is his job.

West Virginia, the nation and the world deserve a sincere argument from Manchin about the climate bills grounded in evidence and constituent interests, rather than feeble evasion of questions aboard his yacht.

The White House has outlined a plan which could serve as a foundation for crafting a more local plan to meet the urgent needs of West Virginia. Turning away from fossil fuels and toward renewable energy would create replacement jobs which could address unemployment, rather than insisting on an industry which will not be a fount of new jobs any time soon.

The plan itself centers economic growth and American competitiveness in global markets, specifically mentioning funds for renewable energy research and carbon capture projects.

Manchin is betraying his state and his country by continuing to bend to the will of coal lobbyists in order to preserve his own power.

Either he must go, or he must start standing up for the well-being of West Virginians and Americans at large. The tools are there — the only question that remains is whether Joe Manchin will be able to summon the courage to do his job before it’s too late.

Rubberneck

The

SATIRE & HUMOR

December 8, 2021 THE OBSERVER

Top 5 NYC Walks for When You Still Haven’t Started Studying for Your Finals

A comprehensive guide of the best places to walk, not run, away from your problems ISABELLA SCIPIONI Opinions Editor

If you’re anything like me, you know that the best way to handle the stress and frustration of finals week is to completely avoid it and go for a walk instead. As the end of the semester comes closer and closer, I find myself making more and more excuses to distract myself by exploring the city we all know and love.

Although the science is still out on unplanned stress walks through unfamiliar areas you’ve never been to, I’ve found that this activity gives me a great excuse to relax, explore New York, and of course, avoid my responsibilities.

Really, who needs a 4.0 when you can walk through the city that never sleeps? Without further ado, here are my top suggestions for the best places to blow off steam, and more importantly, waste time during Finals Season.

Times Square

Union Square to SoHo

Even though most New Yorkers wouldn’t be caught dead in Times Square, you can still have fun by pretending you’re a tourist for a day. Just 15 blocks from Fordham Lincoln Center, Times Square gives students the perfect opportunity to experience what people who have never been to New York think living in New York is like. With peddlers selling everything from fake Louis Vuitton bags to Pfizer vaccines, you’re sure to get a great workout in as you pick up speed and avoid eye contact with them.

You’ll even have the opportunity to meet and take photos with your heroes like Elmo and the 8-foot tall Statue of Liberty (just don’t forget to tip them).

Assuming you don’t experience sensory overload, Times Square offers a great distraction from the stresses of finals week. If by the end of your walk you’re not thinking to yourself “God have we learned NOTHING from this pandemic???” and are looking to get shoved by more tourists, head a few blocks over and see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. Bonus: Once you get into Rockefeller Center at Christmas, you may be stuck standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers for days on end, giving you the perfect excuse when asking for an extension on your final essay.

Take a slow saunter through your favorite downtown neighborhoods. Distract yourself by stopping in a cute café or treat yourself to a thrift-shopping spree.

If you’re visiting the downtown area, make sure to take part in the Fordham Lincoln Center tradition of telling everyone you know that you almost went to NYU. With dozens of trendy restaurants and a bustling nightlife, a casual stroll through this area will remind you why you decided to go to college in New York City in the first place and will inspire you not to withdraw from all of your classes at the last minute. The biggest pro of this location is that no one will look twice if you break down crying over your latest essay grade. Make sure to stop in Washington Square Park to view its daily impromptu protest, concert, stand-up comedy show, YouTube video shoot or whatever other hobby is trendy among NYU’s student body now.

B

SOUTH HARLEM

UPPER WEST

Riverside blvd. & w. 61st st. A

Times Square GARMENT DISTRICT

union square GREENWICH VILLAGE

Jacqueline kennedy onassis reservoir

MANHATTAN LINCOLN SQUARE

UPPER EAST SIDE

HELL’S KITCHEN

A

MIDTOWN EAST

W. 60th St. to W. 116th St. via Riverside Dr. Although this isn’t a famous or particularly beautiful walk, it is an unplanned one that I actually took after slamming my laptop shut in frustration while writing one of my final essays. If all else fails, the best way to release tension during finals and distract yourself is to just walk. Don’t bother planning your route, setting a return time or even knowing where you are.

Just walk and see how long it takes for you to give up and take the subway back.

One of the benefits of this particular route is that it takes you up Riverside Drive and will give you an outsider’s view of how New York’s elite children live. Just be careful not to get hit by any speeding 10-year-olds on Razor scooters, especially since odds are at least one of them will be an executive at Goldman Sachs in 20 years.

B soho

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir A Central Park landmark turned running track for moms of the Upper West Side, the reservoir offers stunning views of Central Park South and an endless circle that will have you questioning the passage of time. It’s easy to forget where you started your walk or just how long you’ve been walking, making the reservoir the best spot to waste time and get a breath of fresh air at the same time.

At least half of the reservoir’s regular visitors are runners, but if taking a leisurely stroll is more your style, you can still have a great time ignoring the eye-rolls and annoyed sighs of athletic visitors trying to pass you. But don’t worry, you can get even with them by walking clockwise on a clearly defined counterclockwise path. You didn’t come here to read signs!

The experience is not complete without taking dozens of photos of the New York City skyline, getting frustrated that none of them came out nice, and promptly deleting all of them to erase the experience from your mind for good.

HARLEM

Riverside dr. & w. 110th st.

CHINATOWN

The Brooklyn Bridge FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Brooklyn Bridge

Last but not least is the infamous Brooklyn Bridge. Assuming you can walk around the herds of tourists stopping in the middle of the walkway for photos and angry bikers who won’t blink twice if they run you over, you can see breathtaking views of lower Manhattan and all the fun neighborhoods you wished you lived in from this iconic attraction.

Every time I walk the structurally deficient Brooklyn Bridge, I can feel the hands of God wrap around me as the 150-year-old boardwalk shakes beneath me in the presence of the smallest gust of wind. The adrenaline rush from walking this iconic death trap will have you running back to the library to get in some good study time. And on the off chance the bridge does collapse, at least you won’t have to take your final.

GRAPHICS BY TARA LENTELL/THE OBSERVER

Arts & Culture Editors Isabella Gonzalez Olivia Stern arts@fordhamobserver.com

Arts & Culture

December 8, 2021

THE OBSERVER

Fordham Lincoln Center Rings in Holiday Season With Christmas Tree Lighting

Lincoln Center undergraduate students gathered in the plaza on Dec. 2 to watch annual Christmas tree lighting TREE LIGHTING from page 1

At the check-in line, students were gifted festive holiday mugs.

Tables scattered around the plaza held ornaments, Christmas cookies and hot cocoa to be distributed to students.

This year’s event served both milk-based and soy milk-based hot cocoa. VanGostein said USG made this choice to promote inclusion and sustainability at the event.

Melanie Sztulman, GSBLC ’23 and USG chair of student affairs, worked to plan this event since the beginning of the semester. She coordinated with Alumni Relations and Facilities, arranging for the dairy-free hot cocoa as well as a variety of fixings including candy canes, caramel and marshmallows.

“ I can’t wait to take

(the mug) home and have a little piece of Fordham with me. ”

Emily Fitzgerald, GSBLC‘25

After picking up complimentary mugs and hot cocoa of choice, students gravitated toward the unlit Christmas tree at the center of the plaza. USG members spoke to the growing crowd before commencing the long-awaited countdown to the tree’s lighting.

Cheers rang out when the tree was finally lit. The crowd then sang along to performances of popular

holiday carols by the University Chamber Choir and the F-Sharps.

Compared to last year, when the majority of students were not on campus, more students were able to participate in this year’s tree lighting.

According to VanGostein, many of the students in charge of planning the event had never attended a tree lighting ceremony before due to the pandemic. Regardless, the event went smoothly and served as a celebration of students’ return to campus.

VanGostein said that as a senior, he appreciated seeing the Fordham community, especially the underclassmen, gathered together for the tree lighting. “It was just really great to see through their eyes what Fordham should be and what it was before the pandemic,” he said.

The event drew in a variety of students — seniors, first-years, residents and commuters alike.

“I really enjoyed it! It is a beautiful tradition, and I’m excited for next year!” Victoria AlvarezMorphy, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’24 and a commuter student, said.

VanGostein hopes the event continues to grow in the coming years. It was a time “where everyone comes together to gather around the tree and just be grateful for each other and being able to be back on campus doing the things we love with the people we love,” he said.

After a year away, seniors were able to experience their final tree lighting, and first-years can look forward to next year’s event.

“I can’t wait to take (the mug) home and have a little piece of Fordham with me,” Emily Fitzgerald, GSBLC ’25 said.

ANDREW DRESSNER/THE OBSERVER

Both the Fordham Chamber Choir and the F-Sharps performed a variety of holiday carols at the tree lighting event.

At the Original Soup Kitchen Featured in ‘Seinfeld,’ There Is Soup for You

Despite the intimidating ‘Soup Nazi’ reputation, the restaurant has a human face behind its efficient service

By GABRIEL GARCIA Staff Writer

As the holiday season nears, so does the less pleasant cold weather that marks winter in New York.

With that being the case, it may be worth picking up some hot soup from the Original Soup Kitchen, best known for its appearance in the season seven episode titled “The Soup Nazi” in “Seinfeld.”

The Soup Nazi scene is a simple skit, as the character George Costanza (Jason Alexander),

familiar with the totalitarian ways of the kitchen, says his order, carefully hands his cash and moves to the right to receive his soup.

Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) is next in line and brazenly ignores the customs Costanza observed.

As a result, she was met with the iconic refrain of “No Soup For You!” As a pop culture landmark, The Original Soup Kitchen is in a rather strange predicament.

It’s certainly more fringe as a “Seinfeld” landmark than W. 112th St.’s Tom’s Restaurant, local to

Columbia University. Of course, the soup kitchen still capitalizes on the “Seinfeld” brand, as it has a picture of Alexander saying, “Soup For Me!” on the exterior wall of the restaurant. The Original Soup Kitchen also sells “No Soup For You!” cups for $15, perfect for storing homemade soup.

There is also the fact that the Original Soup Kitchen embodies an New York, reminiscent of the 1940s or ’50s, rather than present day.

This old-timey feel can certainly be attributed to the Frank Sinatra

ANDREW DRESSNER/THE OBSERVER

The Original Soup Kitchen has far more significance than as a one-off skit on a single “Seinfeld” episode.

music that plays as patrons wait in line to place their order; beyond that, the courtesy of the workers and the density and efficiency of the kitchen bring a sense of nostalgia to the place.

The Original Soup Kitchen does not have “crab bis” as mentioned in the “Seinfeld” scene, but there is lobster bisque on the menu, naturally ordered as “lobster bis.”

Lobster bisque is seemingly the flagship item among the soups. It is on the top of the menu and the most expensive soup at $12 for a large, while most other soups are $9 for the same size. The only purchase that could be more expensive is “Al’s Lobster Roll” at $15 dollars, which is memorable in its own right for the buttery bread roll in tandem with the lobster.

The quality of the lobster bisque soup makes culinary fascism seem forgivable, if not endorsable. The smoothness of the liquid orange cream pairs great with the complimentary bread given with the soup, which is subpar by itself. The softened texture that results from dipping the bread in the soup melds perfectly with the lobster bisque.

Although there are many solids and a plastic spoon provided, the soup is really made for slurping. Between the salty and hearty lobster, melt-in-yourmouth potato bits and a small but noticeable crunch from the

carrots, there is a lot to love about the lobster bisque.

There are other worthwhile soups on the menu as well. The jambalaya has a nice spicy kick, and the shrimp corn soup is like a more economical version of the lobster bisque. While it does not reach the highs of the lobster bisque, it is still a good creamy seafood soup for $3 less. For each individual item, it is noted if the dish contains fish, is made with hot sauce or is friendly to a vegan diet; the menu has a more 21st-century approach than the rest of the eatery’s style.

Lastly, it is worth noting that every soup order comes with complimentary dessert in the form of an apple. The apples are various shades of red and green, and in a recent order, I actually got a pear.

Still, the fruit serves as a refreshing way to end a meal that warms the body and the heart.

Overall, The Original Soup Kitchen has far more significance than as a one-off skit on a single “Seinfeld” episode. If venturing out to explore food at small businesses and New York pop culture landmarks sounds intriguing, then this is the soup for you.

For those of you who have not yet seen “Seinfeld,” Netflix released all nine seasons of the renowned sitcom on Oct. 1. It is one of many options to binge-watch over the coming winter break to pair nicely with a bowl of themed soup.

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Arts & Culture

December 8, 2021 THE OBSERVER

www.fordhamobserver.com

Fordham London Program Has More to Offer Than Classes

Art galleries, museums and other cultural activities in London to visit during your next study abroad program

By JAERI KIM Contributing Writer

After a yearlong intermission due to COVID-19, Fordham reopened its most popular London study abroad program this fall with fewer than 50 students. Fordham London is slowly returning to regular numbers for the spring — about 350 students have registered for the upcoming semester — but things are still not fully back to normal.

The study abroad experience is sure to be different compared to the pre-COVID era, but the program still allows students to explore various activities throughout the city. As one of the few pioneers of the London program that has taken place during COVID-19, here are some of the cultural activities that I had the opportunity to partake in during my semester abroad.

Tate Britain Many people already know the art gallery Tate Modern, which is housed in the iconic Bankside Power Station along the Millennium Bridge, but not so many know about Tate Britain. There are many Tate institutions around the U.K., and Tate Britain is where the orig-

inal Tate Gallery is located. It is situated in Pimlico, London, and you can see the artworks of many British artists throughout the centuries, including J.M.W. Turner, Lucian Freud and David Hockney.

Free admission and booking is available online.

The National Gallery Facing the iconic Trafalgar Square, National Gallery has one of the biggest art collections in the U.K. From Renaissance painters like Titian to Impressionists like Claude Monet and Paul Cézanne, National Gallery features a diverse collection of artists.

Right next to the National Gallery is the National Portrait Gallery, which specializes in

portrait collections of various famous figures like Queen Elizabeth I and William Shakespeare.

Walking from The National Portrait Gallery to the National Gallery takes less than five minutes, so they are definitely worth visiting when in the area.

Free admission and booking is available online., Open daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m. / Friday until 9 p.m.

Royal Museums Greenwich: Queen’s House, Painted Hall, Greenwich Observatory Once the weather gets warmer, a picnic in Greenwich is a must. Greenwich is on the east side of London, a small distance from Central London. However, taking a boat through Thames will lead you directly to Greenwich and provides a great view on the way.

In Greenwich, the three main attractions are The Queen’s House, The Painted Hall and

The Greenwich Observatory.

The Queen’s House, designed by Baroque architect Inigo Jones, is the epitome of Vitruvian rules of proportion and symmetry. It sits in the middle of Old Royal Naval College, and its ballroom shapes a perfect square.

With an extra investment of 7.50 pounds, you can see the magnificent ceiling painting of Painted Hall, completed in the

early 18th century by Sir James Thornhill.

Lastly, Greenwich Observatory is where Greenwich Mean Time starts, the standard of all times in the globe. Additionally, you can have a bird’s eye view of London from the hill of the observatory.

You can book all Royal Museums Greenwich online. Free admission and booking is available online for The Queen’s House.

Sir John Soane’s Museum If you will be living in Kamen House next semester, why not walk 15 minutes to see one of the greatest private collections amassed by Sir John Soane? Sir John Soane’s Museum is perfectly kept in the same condition as when he designed and used this building as his house from 1833 to 1837. Soane was a Neo-classical style architect of the Regency era and a professor

of the Royal Academy. He was a dedicated collector of paintings, sculptures, architectural fragments and models, books, drawings and furniture, which you can all see in the museum.

Lastly, at the request of the audience, the staff opens the door in the picture library, so do not forget to ask for it.

Free entrance and booking available online.

Royal Opera House If you are interested in opera or ballet, the Royal Opera House is the place for you. It is located in Covent Garden, so you can explore the area full of famous restaurants before the show as well. The Royal Opera House schedules diverse performances such as “La Traviata,” “Macbeth,” “Nutcracker” and “Swan Lake.”

Even the accompaniment music is high quality. Furthermore, if you sign up on their website and create a Young ROH account, you can purchase tickets for only 25 pounds Monday through Thursday.

PHOTOS BY JAERI KIM/THE OBSERVER

Other Places to Visit • • •

•

Sky Garden has a great view of London and you can have a drink or meal on top.

Victoria & Albert museum has the world’s first museum cafe.

Royal Albert Hall and Memorial are adjacent to each other. They are dedicated to Prince Albert who was husband to Queen Victoria and a great patron of contemporary culture.

Kew Gardens is a royal garden where you can take a brief getaway from Central London.

Even though you have to plan things in advance and cannot be spontaneous, the U.K. is slowly reopening cultural programs, galleries and museums. However, with the omicron variant of COVID-19 now present in the U.K., the government has reinstated mask mandates in some indoor settings and capacity limitations are still in place. Be aware of these precautions before leaving so you can follow the rules in each situation. Sometimes, the same-day booking does not work, so I would recommend booking a day early.

www.fordhamobserver.com

THE OBSERVER December 8, 2021

Arts & Culture

15

New Rose Hill Band Takes Part in Reemerging Music Scene

Looking for a new student-run band to follow? The band members of Just Email are taking the campus by storm

By ROSALINE STOYKOV Staff Writer

As concert culture returns to the main stage of entertainment for music lovers, new bands can once again begin to build their fanbases. At Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH), Just Email has been booking shows left and right.

Just Email consists of vocalist Phillip Krehbiel, FCRH ’23; bassist and backup vocalist Nicole Estelami, FCRH ’24; guitarist Brendan Munnelly, FCRH ’21; and drummer Benjamin Spicer, FCRH ’23.

“ We don’t take ourselves seriously. We’re not afraid to laugh at ourselves. ”

Nicole Estelami, FCRH ‘24

This Y2K-inspired band originally came together to compete in the Rodrigue’s Coffee House Battle of the Bands where they came in second place, securing their first live performance on Rose Hill’s Walsh Lawn. With all the time spent rehearsing for the competition, it became clear that they wanted to continue playing music together.

The band members recall their initial union being quite hectic.

They each had wanted to perform in the Battle of the Bands and found one another through friends or group chats. When they

COURTESY OF JUST EMAIL

Just Email has drawn inspiration from artists such as Blink-182, Green Day, Juice WRLD and Machine Gun Kelly.

finally got around to signing up for the event, they realized that they forgot to prepare one vital thing: their band name.

“Wait, do we need a band name?” Krehbiel said to the other members as he was signing them up. “Oh, nevermind,” he realized. “Just email.” And so their band had a name.

Since Battle of the Bands, they have performed four shows, one of them being at Barnyard BBQ, a popular bar frequented

by Fordham students.

Though the individuals that make up this band are vastly different, their shared love of Blink-182 and Green Day, as well

as their backgrounds in jazz, bring the four together to form a cohesive unit. While they are currently only covering tracks from their favorite musicians, the band aims to add a new and unique take on their songs each time they perform.

“One thing we do is make the songs our own,” Munnelly said.

“And that comes from our jazz background.”

The band does, however, have some original songs in the making. Krehbiel recently released an original, “Girl From 208,” which was performed at the Barnyard show. The vulnerable lyrics of the ballad call at-

tention to his affinity with R&B and alternative hip hop, as well as inspiration drawn from artists such as Juice WRLD and Machine Gun Kelly. As for the band, their writing style tends to be satirical and heavily influenced

by Blink-182.

“Blink-182 is meant to be performed in an obscure apartment by teenagers,” Estelami laughed.

For Just Email, performing is about having fun. “We don’t take ourselves seriously,” Estelami continued, “We’re not afraid to laugh at ourselves.”

The local band culture at Rose Hill seems to reflect the same sentiment. When per-

forming with other student bands such as Faculty, Debacle and Plastic Baby Jesus, the Just Email band members describe the atmosphere as exceptionally open and supportive.

“When we weren’t playing, we were in the crowd cheering them on,” Estelami recalled.

Though the group of four enjoy performing with one another, they have encountered challenges with organization and time management. With all of the band members’ differing interests and commitments, it is often difficult to coordinate their schedules and find time to rehearse as a band. Just Email’s drummer is a leader of the Climate Impact Initiative, and the bassist Estelami is a part of the Residence Hall Association.

“For four people, coordination is a challenge,” Spicer said.

“I’m honestly surprised we came together overall.”

Despite these challenges, the band maintains that their greatest strength is performing. Just Email is looking forward to continuing their performance streak, writing new music and taking part in the growing post-COVID-19-vaccination music world.

“The scene is changing,” Munnelly said. “It’s being rebuilt.”

With each performance, the crowds get bigger and more energetic. The return to live performances came at the perfect time for Just Email. Their fans excitedly await their first singles, which will be posted to Spotify, YouTube and Distro, where Krehbiel’s “Girl from 208” is already available.

Fordham Grad Begins Performances as Rockette

Maya Addie, FCLC ’21, is putting years of dance training to use in her first year in the Christmas Spectacular

By MOLLY HIGGINS Asst. Photo Editor

She steps out onto the stage with a glittering smile, ready to perform every choreographed step with military yet melodic precision. Maya Addie, Fordham College at Lincoln Center ’21, is one of the newest members of the Radio City Rockettes and, this year, she is performing in the iconic Christmas Spectacular.

Addie’s dance career took off just shortly after she could walk.

“I started dancing when I was three,” she said. “I grew up in Arizona and went to a competition (dance) studio. I was performing and competing all through high school.”

After countless hours devoted to her dance training, Addie’s hard work has paid off as she lives the dream of generations of young dancers when she performs on the Radio City stage.

After graduating from high school, Addie was off to Lincoln Center, where she would study in the prestigious Ailey/ Fordham Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program, the university’s partnership with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

“It was kind of the best situation that I was able to train at the Ailey School, and get all of my ballet, modern and contemporary training, but also be right in the heart of New York City,” Addie said. She spent most of her college years at the Ailey School when she wasn’t attending her academic classes at Fordham, and she also took dance classes outside of the Ailey/Fordham BFA program.

“So many of us (Fordham alumni) are still in this area living our dreams and doing all

that we’ve wanted to do,” Addie said. “It’s really cool that I went to school there for four years and now I’m doing what I’ve been dreaming of and working so hard for just a few blocks away.”

Addie said during her time at the Ailey School, she was surrounded by supportive dance teachers and mentors, some of whom she has stayed in touch with since.

“ Being a part of the

Rockette legacy is something that’s so special and not many are able to experience that. ”

Maya Addie, FCLC ‘21 and Rockette dancer

“I have always known Maya to be such a power,” said Lakey Evans-Peña, Rehearsal Director for Ailey/Fordham Student Dancers. “She has been an artist always. Always.”

Evans-Peña attended the Christmas Spectacular, along with a group of dancers from the Ailey/Fordham BFA program.

“It was fantastic,” she said.

“These past 18 months it’s been really challenging for all of us.

Theaters are closed, all of that.

So to be able to go, it was just brilliant. (Addie) was gorgeous, and it was wonderful. Such a joyful celebration.”

Now, Addie puts her years of hard work and training to use while she performs for her first year as a Rockette.

“It’s been a really wild ride and full of emotions, especially coming off of a year of not being able to perform for live audiences,” she said. “Being able to perform every single day for new audiences, and having that experience of just putting a smile on someone’s face is really what has been most memorable and what I’ve been cherishing most this season.”

The excitement in Addie’s voice shines through when she describes her experience as a Rockette. While she was able to perform in the Christmas Spectacular as an ensemble member in 2019, this is her first year doing the famous eye-level high kicks.

“Being a part of the Rockette legacy is something that’s so special and not many are able to experience that,” she said. “So I feel really fortunate to have this experience.”

To young aspiring dancers, or anyone with big dreams, Addie says that individuality is the key to success.

“I would say just be yourself,” she said. “It’s really important that you don’t conform to what everyone else is doing around you, and that you stay genuine and authentic.”

Throughout the next month, Addie will perform in the Christmas Spectacular.

“Truly, the Christmas Spectacular is what makes New York City and what makes Christmastime in the city so special for so many different audiences,” Addie said. “I think having this opportunity to be together during the holidays and spreading Christmas cheer is really what I’ve loved throughout this season.”

COURTESY OF MSG ENTERTAINMENT

Maya Addie, FCLC ’21 and graduate of the Fordham/Ailey BFA program, will perform as a Rockette in Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular until the show ends its run on Jan. 2.

Fun & Games Editor Kreena Vora puzzles@fordhamobserver.com

un & ames

Crossword: Holiday Gifts

BY IRENE HAO, CORBIN GREGG and KREENA VORA

Across 1. These fill up when a new wave of a disease hits 5. Cause of sores, initially 8. It will hopefully grow into a tree 12. Squashing sounds 15. Ending for meteor or quartz

16. A friend or confidant 17. *Gifts that can be hung on a tree 19. Arise 20. A time when employers set up booths to find new hires (2 words) 22. Welsh word for chick 25. *A gift hung on a chimney that can be stuffed

29. Like a voice after screaming 33. Grove of trees 34. Country to the north of Iraq and Syria 38. Alluring shyness 39. *Much like the other starred clues, this holiday game involves swapping gifts (2 words) 43. Alternate name for a fairy 44. Short films before a movie, showing current events 46. This is the worst, compared to the second, which is the best 49. Response 50. *A unique gift that may melt if not preserved right 55. Government payments to the elderly and disabled (Abbr.)

56. A promise or statement of confidence 60. Labor 63. *A gift found in a play with sugarplums 67. The given name of the supposed subject of Henry VIII’s poem “Greensleeves” 68. NYC neighborhood of Serena van der Woodsen 69. Sample tube, like of makeup 70. Bitter part of a watermelon 71. A snake’s favorite letter 72. Classes for Americans whose mother tongues are French or Korean, etc.

Quiz: What Kind of Gift-Giver Are You? When do you start looking for the perfect gift?

A

I start thinking about it in October or earlier. I like to carefully cater my gifts t o each person, and this takes time.

I take advantage of Black Friday sales, even if it means weathering crowded stores.

Cyber Monday is great too!

by Kyla McCallum

How do you know where to start looking?

A

The best gifts are found by simply listening to loved ones. I make a mental note when I hear them mention something they want or need, even months before the holidays.

I put it off until the last possible minute and then panic over shipping delays.

B

Do you pool all your money on one gift or give multiple?

I just ask the person what they want — then I know it’s something they’ll use, even if the gift itself isn’t a surprise.

C

Google. Every website nowadays has sponsored lists, and there’s bound to be something on one of those that will work.

B C

A

I like to give one really great gift. That way no one gift is outshined by another.

B

Depends on the person. If the things they need aren’t too expensive, I may give them multiple items.

C

Since I’m not sure what they want, I buy at least a few items for each person. Giving multiple gifts looks better than just handing out a single mediocre one.

A

The best gifts are exciting! I judge the quality by the recipient’s reaction. If they’re not beaming ear to ear, I didn’t succeed.

Are you good at keeping the gift a secret?

B

The best gifts are useful. They might not be exciting, but the recipient is grateful that the cost of a necessary item doesn’t have to come out of their own pocket.

A

Not a peep from me! I even hide them so that nobody can take any guesses based on the box.

B

Everyone tells me what to buy, so it’s not really a secret to begin with.

C

I’m awful at keeping secrets so everyone inevitably knows what the gift is before they open it. Whatever, surprises are overrated.

Mostly As

You’re above-and-beyond thoughtful. Your gifts demonstrate active listening and care, so family and friends always look forward to tearing them open the most.

What do you think makes the best gift?

C

Mostly Bs

I like to look for gifts that both the recipient and myself benefit from.

At least that way I’m spending money on myself, too.

You’re a practical gift giver.

If someone needs a vacuum for Christmas, they turn to you. Hey, at least you know money isn’t going to waste!

Mostly Cs

It’s the thought that counts.

Gift-giving might not be your specialty, but people know that you try. Just remember to keep receipts.

December 8, 2021 THE OBSERVER

Down 1. Global leader in contractor and supplier information management (Abbr.)

2. A computer’s heart 3. Prefix meaning beyond or farther 4. CUNY Baruch’s tutoring service (Abbr.)

5. Mountain climber 6. Back of a ship 7. Green, in Esperanto 8. He can convince you that whitewashing a fence is a fascinating task 9. Common Core literacy standards 10. Animal similar to a moose 11. Color 13.

-la-la (in song) 14. An emergency attempt to find a missing person (Abbr.)

18. Tim Cook of Apple, e.g.

21. Award show hosted by Cardi B this year 22. Restaurant bill (Abbr.)

23. “Just ”, line sung by an immigrant Founding Father in “Hamilton” 24. One who receives valor and prestige after service (2 words) 26. Information from a peacock in a rock? (2 words) 27. “Bye bye” 28. Apology over text

30. Nutrition label info. giving percentages (Abbr.)

31. Not stand 32. Ga., to Ark., direction 35. Two times five 36. Carbonated soft drink, with ginger 37. Not used 40. Dangers of cigarettes ads, e.g.

41. Popular website listing the results of colt competitions (Abbr.)

42. Bronze in Latin (Abbr.)

43. Exclamatory message, used in anger when texting 45. Indian honorific 47. Climbed 48. Strange abbreviation to express gratitude 51. Problem 52. Soon to be ex-U.S. Rep. for California’s 22nd district Devin 53. Total before taxes, as in income 54. Cut, like wood 57. Unit of digital data, which can be sold or traded by Gabelli Bros (Abbr.)

58. Key in French 59. “At ” to a soldier 60. and feather 61. A demon or ogre in Japanese folklore 62. Tavern 64. Gold weight (Abbr.)

65. Flotsam or Jetsam 66. “Dude, r u ?”

Horoscopes

by David Fresolone

What Is Your Fordham Themed Mantra?

Combine your sign, residential status type and major to determine your mantra.

Ex. Virgo, Commuter, STEM major = Faith and Critical Reason ruined my life Your sign: Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio

Rose Hill Kids The Halal Cart Cura Personalis McMahon My EP3 VitalCheck Father McShane The Ram Van The Ram Cafe Faith and Critical Reason Argo Tea Quinn Library

Your residential status: made me question McMahon enriched McKeon ruined Commuter saved Rose Hill Your major: Gabelli Humanities STEM Fine Arts

my stock portfolio my soul my life everything I hold dear

GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS AND PAGE DESIGN BY KYLA MCCALLUM