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SEPTEMBER 17, 2015 VOLUME XXXV, ISSUE 9
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Photo Feature
VPs to Run Contested Election Race By CONNOR MANNION News Co-Editor & Asst. Literary Editor
After spending a summer vacant, there will be an election for the position of vice president of student affairs in United Student Government (USG), with two candidates, Alex Seyad, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, FCLC ‘18, and Ambra Marengo, FCLC ‘16, now in the process of filling out the election packets released by USG via email on Sept. 9. Alex Seyad was previously a freshman senator in USG for the 2014-15 academic year and had attempted a run for the position of secretary–a position now held by Rory Hanrahan, FCLC ‘18. “I was approached earlier this year by certain people, and I made a decision [to run] soon after,” Seyad said. Despite his loss in the election, Seyad is eligible to run, “I’ve served a year on the senate, so I do meet the requirements to run.” Despite not being a senator, Marengo also meets the requirements to run, as an officer of USG can “nominate qualified students to fill the position and choose based on a majority of the USG Assembly, or hold a special election involving the whole student body,” according to Section 3 of the USG constitution. Though Marengo had not previously served on USG in any capacity, but was asked to run by a USG officer. “One of my good friends on USG, Alec Padron, said I should consider running after I mentioned I’d like to get involved,” Marengo said. “I’ve never been involved with USG before, but I’ve served on the e-board of Operation Smile before I went abroad last year, and I was an orientation captain this year for NSO [New Student Orientation].” The main goal of the two candidates is to create a more welcoming environment for students, though they have different ways of achieving this goal. According to Seyad, it would be through encouraging see CAMPAIGNS pg. 5
ZANA NAJJAR / THE OBSERVER
The Observer Photo Team captured moments from New York Fashion Week. Pictured above, designer Mondo Guerra being interviewed outside the Project Runway show. For more, see centerfold and www.fordhamobserver.com
Fordham Reacts to Racial Slur Found in Dorm By ADRIANA GALLINA Editor-in-Chief
Three Fordham College at Rose Hill (FCRH) roommates went to football practice on Sunday morning, Sept. 13. Two of the players (both white) returned to their room around noon without seeing anything on their door. At 1 p.m., the third roommate, a black student, returned to find the n-word carved into their door. He alerted a resident assistant, who in turn notified the Office of Public Safety. By 8:16 p.m. that night, the University had informed the Fordham community of the racist slur that had occurred some time in the past 24 hours via email, calling the defacement by the legal procedural term “bias incident.” Subsequently,
two student groups on campus, the Black Student Alliance (BSA) at Rose Hill and BSA at Lincoln Center (LC), have responded with outrage about what students are largely referring to as a hate crime. Both organizations have stressed that they are resources and communities to help students process the event, heal and move forward. “I believe strongly that it was a hate crime,” Hans Lueders FCRH ‘16, president of the BSA at RH, also known as ASILI (the Swahili word for origins), said. “Carving the n-word into someone’s door–where he lives–that’s clear intent to deliver emotional harm to that guy,” Lueders continued. He said, “I was just at a College Democrats meeting and students
are concerned about the way the school framed it, a ‘bias’ incident. They are concerned that the school might not have their backs. That’s not a feeling you want freshmen to have, especially two weeks in the semester, they need to know how secure they are.” Bob Howe, senior director of communications and special advisor to the President, stated, “The wording is the way that it is not because we want to go easy on whoever the suspected writer is. The point is you don’t want to get to a disciplinary hearing or a criminal proceeding and have that person [the perpetrator] say, ‘They were prejudiced against me from the beginning. Even before the investigation was complete, they called it a hate crime.’”
In a political climate where there’s more intolerance toward racial prejudice, some students find the protocolic language, “bias incident,” used by the University to be insensitive. At least 30 Facebook posts by fellow Rams, including alumni, echoed Lueders’ thoughts. One post read, “There’s no point in using neutral language to describe hateful behavior.” Another read, “I feel like a hate crime is something that needs to be addressed not only by Public Safety but the Administration itself. Like this is your student body making black students feel unsafe. This isn’t just about the safety of Fordham, but the conscience of the people who go here and the people who run the school.” Georgina Owolabi, vice presi-
Inside
FEATURES
SPORTS
ARTS & CULTURE
Fashion Week High Life
Violence in the NFL
NYFW at Fordham
Just another night in the glitz n’ glam
Criminal history ruins the integrity of the game
Student blogger talks about trends to watch
Controversy should not dictate our reading
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THE STUDENT VOICE OF FORDHAM LINCOLN CENTER
OPINIONS
Banned Books
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September 17, 2015 THE OBSERVER
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USG Election Season Kicks Off at LC FIND OUT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO VOTE
By ANA FOTA News Co-Editor
It’s election season at Fordham Lincoln Center, and students interested in running for United Student Government (USG) senate positions are sending out their application packets. The race for the vice president of student affairs position will also run concomitantly, with two candidates already registered. On the evening of Sept. 9, Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) and Gabelli School of Business at Lincoln Center (GSBLC) undergraduate students received an email from the president of USG, Leighton Magoon, FCLC ‘17, informing them that election packets have been released. According to Magoon’s email, the positions are recommended for anyone “interested in working with clubs on campus, planning formal events and town halls and creating sustainable change here on campus.” While the submission deadline for the freshman senator and vice president of student affairs position applications was last Thursday, upperclassmen of FCLC interested in running for Senate can still submit their packets by Thursday, Sept. 17, at 5 p.m. The GSBLC senator position was filled at the end of the past semester, therefore there will be no new election. Packets can be picked up in room 408 of Lowenstein (LL408). In order to run for senate, candidates need to collect 25 signatures from students in their respective class, as they would be the ones casting votes. Those running for the vice president position must raise 50 signatures, from any student of FCLC, including the freshman class of 2019. According to Magoon, this year the club has had “quite a few applications from folks interested in senate positions.” The election packets are a way of “getting to know the people who are running, finding out what drew them to running, if they have experience organizing events and so on,” Magoon continued. Once the applications are in and
PAOLA JOAQUIN ROSSO/THE OBSERVER
Pictured above, the two candidates for the vice president of affairs position, Alex Sayad, FCLC ‘18, and Ambra Marengo, FCLC ’16.
the applicants are notified, they can start campaigning. All posters must be approved by the Election Committee and abide by their posting policies. There will be no debate between the candidates to the vice-presidency this election, due to “how quickly everything happens in September,”
Magoon said. Students will be able to vote via OrgSync, beginning Sept. 16. The winners will be notified right away and shall assume their positions as such. Due to the expanded deadline, upperclassmen will be notified by Sept. 23. However, Magoon asks that candidates do not hold the election
as an “end-all, be-all,” and wants to emphasize that “if these folks run and they don’t happen to win, we would be more than happy for them to still participate in USG, as members, or participating in our events, or in any other capacity.” Pictures of the candidates will be posted on the bulletin board in front of the
Ram Cafe, for passing students to acknowledge. USG held its first meeting on Thursday, Sept. 3. They will have weekly meetings, on Thursdays at 12:30 p.m, starting in October. For students at Lincoln Center, the proverbial door to participation is “always open,” as Magoon said.
Fordham Prepares for Papal Visit to the US “ The fact that Pope Francis is a Jesuit has
By ANA FOTA News Co-Editor
The Fordham community has been preparing for the Papal visit to the United States and to New York, at the end of the month. The current pontiff will arrive at JFK on the evening of Sept. 24 and is set to hold an evening prayer at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan on the same night. Campus Ministry, located in LL217, will be organizing a series of viewing events for some of the major speeches that the Pope will be giving while he is in the country, including his address to Congress, as well as the speech he will give at the United Nations headquarters, in Manhattan. Debriefing and discussion sessions will be held at the church of St. Paul the Apostle, during the weekly Sunday mass. These meetings will be held the week before the pontiff’s visit (on Sept. 20) and after he has left New York City, on Sept. 27. On Oct. 6, the theology department will be hosting a conversation with the Jesuit priest James Martin, who has written about the contemporary catholic church. The focus will be on the pontiff’s visit to the United States and what it means for its people, catholic or otherwise. Up to 15 members of the Fordham faculty have made themselves readily available to speak with the national and international media
been very clear in the way he has conducted himself, [...] this is a pope who is deeply committed to the ideals of social justice.” – PATRCIK HORNBECK , chair of the theology department
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAURIZIO BRAMBATTI-ANSA/ ZUMA PRESS VIA TNS
Pope Francis is the first pope to be born in the Americas.
about Pope Francis’ trip and what it means to the United States. J. Patrick Hornbeck II, professor and chair of the theology department, will
be working closely with the television network Al Jazeera during the visit. “I have a feeling that the thing people will talk most about is some-
thing that none of us can predict at this moment,” Hornbeck stated, “what is fascinating about Pope Francis is that he has been in many ways, a pope of surprises … some of the most interesting things that happened during his visits to other countries, have been off-script, so to speak.” Pope Francis will be the first pope to ever address a joint session of congress, which will be “very, very interesting,” according to the theology chair. Fordham, the Jesuit University of New York, could have been a stop during the pontiff’s trip, if time had allowed. “While it’s not surprising,” Hornbeck said, “that there wasn’t time in the schedule for a stop at Fordham, I know that I’m not the only person who is disappointed that that possibility did not come about.” Pope Francis has been sharing a message of mercy during his papalcy, in keeping with his Jesuit iden-
tity. “The fact that pope Francis is a Jesuit has been very clear in the way he has conducted himself,” Hornbeck said, as “this is a pope who is deeply committed to the ideals of social justice that have been such a big part of the Jesuit order in the last 40 to 50 years and even before that.” Pope Francis is the first ever Jesuit pope and the first to have been born in the Americas. Father Joseph McShane, S.J., president of Fordham University, submitted a short video this July, welcoming the pontiff to New York. Pope Francis has been a subject of interest in the media.“I think it’s fair to say that this pope has adopted during the course of his papacy a wide series of different initiatives that seem designed to bring Catholic people and people generally closer to who he believes God is,” Hornbeck said, “and I certainly applaud that.”
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Fordham Holds Traditional Mass of Holy Spirit By ELENA CIOTTA Contributing Writer
Members of the Fordham Lincoln Center community gathered Thursday afternoon in Pope Auditorium to celebrate the Mass of the Holy Spirit. Students, staff and faculty members were in attendance, including Keith Eldredge, dean of students at Lincoln Center, Dorothy Wenzel, director for the Office of Student Leadership and Community Development (OSLCD) and Joseph Desciak, associate dean of freshmen at Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC). The Mass of the Holy Spirit, while not specified on the regular church calendar, is a tradition of Jesuit institutions, Fordham included, dating back to 1548. Organized by Campus Ministry, the event “aims to gather the Fordham community at the start of the academic year to thank God and call upon the Holy Spirit,” Father Grimes, dean of FCLC, said. The Holy Spirit is “the third person of the trinity, and is generally associated with wisdom and knowledge,” Grimes continued, “so we invoke the Holy Spirit upon the school as we begin a new year.” The celebration began with a procession held by members of the faculty, followed by a sermon held by Father Joseph McShane, S.J., president of Fordham University. The event was accompanied in song by the FCLC Choir, conducted by Will Mulligan, associate director of liturgical music. In his sermon, Father McShane discussed the importance of “letting mercy reign” throughout the Fordham community’s upcoming year, and challenged the FCLC community to think differently about various recent events, saying: “we, the members of this community are challenged to find a way to bring the seemingly utopian vision that god has for the human family to transform the world.” He added, “this gospel, this world, there is an unbelievable chasm between the two. Keep the newspapers in one hand and read the gospel in the other and let the newspapers learn from the gospel and the bible.” At the conclusion of the Mass, Father McShane asked all faculty to turn towards the students in at-
ANA FOTA/THE OBSERVER
Father McShane delivers a sermon during the Mass held in Pope Auditorium.
tendance and bless them, wishing them good luck in their upcoming school year. Many students felt empowered by the mass and what Father McShane had to share. Laura Gerkis, FCLC ’16, said: “This is actually, even though I’m a senior, my first time attending the Mass of the Holy Spirit, and I’m just so uplifted. It makes me feel like this is going to be a great year.” Colette Lanzon, FCLC ’19, a new member to Fordham said, “the Mass really helped me feel wel-
comed to the Fordham community not only in an academic sense, but in a spiritual, and emotional sense that the professors, as well as Father McShane considered me part of the community.” Nick Endo, FCLC ’16 and a member of campus ministry, felt that the mass resonated with him on a personal level, he said, “I really appreciate that it’s a Jesuit tradition shared by Jesuit universities around the world—I did it back in my Jesuit high school, and my sister has it at her Jesuit univer-
sity. It’s a reminder that I’m part of something bigger.” The event also did not go without recognition of Pope Francis’s upcoming visit to New York City. In his sermon, Father McShane talked about showing Pope Francis that at Fordham, we are building a “kingdom of mercy, a kingdom of charity, and a kingdom of love.” After Mass, Desciak commented: “To talk about Mercy, and the year of mercy, and for Pope Francis to be coming here in less than two weeks, who talks
about mercy so much, it was just so reflective of all the world events that are happening.” Lunch followed in the atrium for all those who attended Mass. Father McShane acknowledged the poor weather as well, expressing his preference towards having the event outdoors, saying: “next year, we’ll have a proper barbecue.”
Law Professor Named CEO of SuperPAC Teachout’s PAC Dedicated to Campaign Finance Reform By CONNOR MANNION News Co-Editor / Asst. Literary Editor
Over the summer, Zephyr Teachout, associate professor of law at the Fordham Law School (LAW), became the CEO of Mayday, a PAC (Political Action Committee) dedicated to removing the influence of PACs from national elections. She assumes the role previously filled by Harvard Law professor Larry Lessig, who announced his campaign to be the Democratic presidential nominee on September 9. Lessig founded Mayday PAC in 2014 in a bid to elect a group of senators who were committed to the PAC’s goal of campaign finance reform. Only one candidate backed by Mayday was elected however, Representative Walter Jones (R-N.C.). According to his 2016 campaign website, Lessig is running as a ‘referendum candidate,’ meaning that if Lessig was to win the election, he would resign following the passage of campaign reform laws. Teachout is familiar with campaigning, having launched a bid to oust N.Y. Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary for state governor in 2014. According to Politico, “Teachout ultimately garnered 33.5 percent of the vote,
CONNOR MANNION/THE OBSERVER
Zephyr Teachout, pictured, succeeded Larry Lessig as CEO of Mayday PAC, an anti-SuperPAC SuperPAC
but lost by nearly 30 points to the incumbent governor in the Democratic primary.” Gov. Cuomo then went on to defeat Republican can-
didate Rob Astorino, Fordham College at Rose Hill, FCRH ‘89, in the general election. In Teachout’s new role as CEO
of the committee, she will return to the campaign process, though now as a financier rather than a candidate. “As the new CEO and Board
Chair, Teachout will lead Mayday’s strategic planning for the 2016 election cycle. This will include selecting the next round of electoral targets and managing independent expenditure campaigns as part of the organization’s ongoing effort to advance fundamental reform,” the group said in a statement. Mayday states its primary goal is to “support fundamental reform of the way campaigns are funded.” This is related to an overarching political movement aimed against Citizens United v. Federal Elections Committee. The Supreme Court decision that held that limiting independent expenditures on political campaigns by groups like PACs violates the First Amendment. The final opinion stated corporations should be considered as people and their money counts as speech, according to the majority opinion of the court. Teachout wrote a legal history book on the subject of the case, and has campaigned for transparency in campaign spending. The PAC itself has not made any official endorsements of presidential candidates or any statements at all since the announcement of Teachout as CEO.
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PHOTO COURTSEY OF HANS LUEDER
Hans Lueders, featured above, writes, “This is me, so you can put a face to a name. I too, am other,” in his piece called “At Fordham University, Racism 101 Is In Session” featured in Slant. The incident “was really sobering for all of us the worst part was my initial reaction was I’m tired man. I’m really weary, it sucks that such a thing is so commonplace that you can’t even muster enough shock to it,” he said.
PHOTO COURTSEY OF HANS LUEDER
This is the site of the racist slur, scratched into the dorm door of a freshman Rose Hill student. The photo was taken by the black student and uploaded on Snapchat.
PHOTO BY ADRIANA GALLINA/THE OBSERVER
John Carroll, VP of Public Safety and former NYPD officer said, “First of all, that’s horrendous for this young man to come home to. It’s disgusting--really. Anybody who doesn’t have empathy for that really shouldn’t be in this business. But at the same time, you got to let the process move forward in a methodical, intelligent way or else you would just be casting everyone as guilty without investigation.”
Black Student Finds Racial Slur on Dorm Door Use of Legal Language “Bias Incident” Causes Controversy RACIAL SLUR FROM PAGE 1
dent of BSA at Lincoln Center and Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) ‘16, said, “It wasn’t just a ‘bias incident’. It was a hate crime. But more importantly we are making sure Fordham knows that BSA is a resource and a space to address that.” BSA at LC released a statement via Facebook that same Sunday evening. “We haven’t even had our first meeting yet, and to stay silent about that wouldn’t have been appropriate and would have been a form of complacency,” Owolabi said. “This happened but where do we go from here? And specifically addressing those who were victimized, whether it is towards that individual student or towards the rest of the Fordham community, black or other, if they are hurting from this situation and being able to process that,” she continued. WHAT
MAKES SOMETHING HATE CRIME?
A
“We are an educational institution and we are here to educate our students,” John Carroll, assistant vice president of Public Safety, said. “It’s wrong to jump to conclusions before the investigation concludes. To start by saying this is a hate crime, while it may very well be a hate crime is wrong. The investigation will determine whether it is.” A hate crime necessitates the culpable mental state of the individual committing the crime, according to Carroll. “For any hate crime you have to have an underlying crime, in this case criminal mischief. Now certainly, the n-word is a racist word. Nobody is taking anything away from that,” he said. “But what we are saying is exactly what every policing agency and every law enforcement agency would say--investigate a suspected bias incident. It is suspected to be a hate crime, but we can’t call it that until the investigation is complete.” According to Carroll, the University acted promptly and justly by notifying the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Fordham community that the investigation began. The NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force was assigned. He also stated that they used correct official language which is “Investigate a Suspected Bias Incident.” According to the Fordham website: Hate Crimes - A person commits a hate crime when he or she commits a specified offense (as defined in Section 485.05[3]) and either:
“ It wasn’t just a
‘bias incident’. It was a hate crime. But more importantly we are making sure Fordham knows that BSA is a resource and a space to address that” GEORGINA OWOLABI,
FCLC ’16
(a) Intentionally selects the person against whom the offense is committed or intended to be committed in whole or in substantial part because of a belief or perception regarding the race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation of a person, regardless of whether the belief or perception is correct, or (b) Intentionally commits the act or acts constituting the offense in whole or in substantial part because of a belief or perception regarding the race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation of a person, regardless of whether the belief or perception is correct. While according to the Fordham website a Bias Incident is: Not all hateful behavior rises to the level of a crime. Bias-Related Incidents refer to any act or behavior that is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and reasonably believed to be motivated by a consideration (real or perceived) of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, gender, national origin, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. When asked if the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) had input into these safety alerts, Carroll responded, “No, but their bosses do.” According to both Howe and Carroll, in addition to themselves, Vice President of Affairs Jeffrey Gray, Dean of Students at Rose Hill Chris Rodgers, and Dean of Students at Lincoln Center Keith Eldredge, all review safety alerts prior to being pushed out to the school. Howe could not predict the severity of the disciplinary action that would be taken by the University should the perpetrator be found guilty of a hate crime. “There’s a range of penalties and I don’t want
to outline them because I don’t want to highlight a particular penalty, but there will be a disciplinary process if that person is caught,” he stated. When asked if the Fordham community would be alerted to the results of disciplinary proceedings against the student, Howe responded: “It depends. If the person is a student, they have privacy rights under FERPA and in any case a University is not going to throw one of their own students under the bus. Even if it’s a student who did something disgusting. I don’t know how we’ll handle that. It depends on how the case plays out.” NOT THE FIRST OFFENSIVE SLUR SPRAWLED ON CAMPUS
From February to March 2012, there were three “suspected bias incidents, “according to CBS. The first involved the n-word being graffitied on the dorm door of a black resident assistant. Next, a homophobic word was found in the stairwell of the Lincoln Center campus. The third involved another racial slur found in a bathroom at the Rose Hill campus. In response to those incidents,
ing and helpful,” Lueders said. “We have a culture here–a Jesuit culture–this is not something we support. It’s not okay,” Owolabi said. “I’m trying to picture myself in the place of this freshman or freshmen here, who come into Fordham and have had conversations with orientation leaders that have assured them this is a very understanding community and diverse community that celebrates diversity and for this to have happened not even two weeks into the school year, how do you address that?” “In one phrase: I got your back-we got your back,” Lueders said. BSA at LC and the Community Organizing Working Group of the Dorothy Day Center for Service and Justice will be co-hosting a dialogue to unpack recent events on Thursday, Sept. 24 BSA at LC will also be having their first meeting on Sept. 23 at 3 p.m. room TBA. Rose Hill hosted a dialogue on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in Keating Hall which approximately 50 students and faculty attended. Anyone with any knowledge of the incident should contact the
“ The n-word is a racist word. Nobody is tak-
ing anything away from that. What we’re saying is exactly what every policing agency ... is saying -investigate a suspected bias incident.” –
JOHN CARROLL, Vice President of Public Safety
students created a petition on Change.org called “Acts of Racism and Hate will NOT be Tolerated” that garnered 1,674 supporters. Zann Ballsun-Simms, president of BSA at LC and FCLC ‘16, said, “This is a larger issue. This is not an isolated incident. It’s not just one thing. It’s not just a joke. This is something that needs to be addressed systemically within the Fordham community.” She reiterated the sentiments of Owolabi and Lueders that, “As BSA, our biggest goal is to give students of color--particularly black students-the support that they need right now to get through this and provide a safe space for them to get through that.” MOVING FORWARD AND STANDING IN SOLIDARITY
Administration has thus far been responsive. “Dean Nolan and Dean Rodgers have been forthcom-
NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force at (646) 610-8763, or the Office of Public Safety at (718) 817-2222 and speak with the Duty Supervisor. Students may also reach out to their resident assistants, commuter assistants, Office of Multicultural Affairs staff, resident ministers, and student life staff with any information or to discuss the incident and its effect on them or the community. EMAIL FROM PUBLIC SAFETY:
Subject: University Statement | Rose Hill Bias Incident At 1 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, 2015, an African-American student notified a resident assistant, who in turn notified Fordham Public Safety, that a racial slur had been scratched into the door of his room in Lalande Hall. The room’s residents had not been present for most of the day, and it is unclear when the door was defaced. Residential life staff and officers
from Public Safety responded to the room, and notified NYPD, which is investigating the incident as a bias crime. It goes without saying that such behavior is antithetical to the values of Jesuit education. Such slurs injure not only their intended targets, but the entire Fordham community. If the person who committed the act is identified, he or she will face University disciplinary proceedings in addition to whatever criminal charges are filed. Anyone having any knowledge of the incident is urged to contact the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force at (646) 610-8763, or the Office of Public Safety at (718) 817-2222, and ask to speak to the Duty Supervisor. Students are also encouraged to contact their resident assistants, commuter assistants, Office of Multicultural Affairs staff, resident ministers, and student life staff if they have anything to report, or if they simply want to discuss the incident and its effect on them and the community. BSA LC STATEMENT:
BSA Members and Allies, With the latest Fordham security alert message, it has come to our attention that a bias crime has occurred on the Rose Hill campus. To begin, words cannot express the disgust felt among the E-Board that someone who dares to call themselves a Fordham Ram would have the audacity to commit such an act of hatred, and let’s call it for what it was - a hate crime against one’s racial identity. To the student who was victimized in this act, we stand with you in solidarity and want you to know that we are readily available as a resource of support for you during this time and henceforth. For anyone at either Fordham campus who ever feels victimized because of their race, we offer ourselves to you as a place of support, comfort, and healing.To the students of Fordham, we urge you to understand the severity of what has truly happened and to understand that to remain silent on this matter is to insinuate this behavior is acceptable (despite going against the Jesuit tenants we so stand for here). We know this does not represent the spirit of Fordham and that hopefully that same spirit can help us grow from this incident. With Love and Power, The BSA E-Board For more reporting on this incident visit www.fordhamobserver. com
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Abandoned Garden Repurposed by Fordham Research By CONNOR MANNION News Co-Editor & Asst. Literary Editor
Over the summer, a rotating machine was installed outside of McMahon Hall’s 2nd floor entrance, labeled in felt marker as ‘Fordham Pollen Machine.’ This machine, known as an aeroallergen monitoring device, brings new purpose to a previously underutilized part of the Fordham community. Guy Robinson, Ph.D. and lecturer in biology, explained the move was due to the construction of the old law school into a new student center, as the previous location of the machine was on the roof of the old law building. “We were already anticipating the move,” he said. According to Robinson, an aeroallergen monitoring device is “a machine that picks up windblown pollen to create a representative record of pollen during allergy seasons. This machine is representative of midtown Manhattan.” The other monitoring station is located at The Louis Calder Center Biological Field Station, a Fordham operated research center located in Armonk, New York, 25 miles north of New York City. Dr. Robinson runs the aeroallergen monitor there as well. “It’s not easy to run both of the stations, and I somehow got in charge of both of them. That’s why I only change out the samples for analysis every three days as opposed to every morning [at Lincoln Center],” he added. “However we also have a lot more data up in Armonk, the database there goes back to 1998, Lincoln Center has only recorded allergen data since 2009,” he continued.
CONNOR MANNION/THE OBSERVER
The garden, located off the 2nd floor entrance to McMahon Hall, has two large sunflower plants
In fact, Fordham operates the only two allergen monitoring stations in New York. “We provide the data from the stations to a couple of databases, the National Air Allergen Bureau and Harvard’s School of Public Health.” “Brian Byrne, the vice president of facilities I believe, suggested the
garden since it wasn’t being really used.” Robinson continued. “I think it’s perfect since it’s fairly isolated from the rest of the plaza, but students can access it more easily.” This is also good news for the students involved in the maintenance of the machine. “Undergraduate students are responsible for taking
the accrued samples from the station and bringing them to the lab for analysis,” Robinson said. According to Meghan Alvarez, FCLC ‘17, who was living at Fordham over the summer, “the machine kind of appeared over the summer around July,” she said. The machine’s origin was unclear
to students like Alvarez, but Leslie Timoney, associate director of campus operations, confirmed the movement from the law school. “It was a project of the natural science department, and it was moved [to the communal garden] due to construction,” she said. “It was so the roof can be replaced for 2016.”. The machine rotates in interval degrees, first 90 degrees, then 180 degrees, followed by a 360 degree revolution. It is unknown if the machine is helping with plant growth, but this does not appear to be the case. “There are some sunflowers that started growing, but they seem really sick ... they look weird now,” Alvarez said. Robinson explained the plant sickness and weed growth had nothing to do with the machine’s installation. “When we arrived to install the station, we noticed there were a lot of vegetables, like tomatoes, and sunflowers growing in the garden. It looked like someone had planted them in the early summer,” Robinson said. According to him, this is also what caused the outbreak of weeds in the garden. “It seems that the garden was ignored for a bit [over the summer] and that is why these insect-pollinated weeds sprang up.” The distinction of how the weeds and plants in the garden are pollinated is important since “the machine records samples from wind based pollen … the garden itself is not affecting our samplings,” Robinson continued. For updates on New York City’s daily pollen count follow @FordhamPollen on Twitter.
VP Candidates to Run Campaigns solely through Advertising. VP FROM PAGE 1
participation in USG. “I did notice that the student body is not really concerned with USG sometimes … my goal would be, as vice president of student affairs, to encourage civil participation and get people to come to our events and meetings,” Seyad said.
Marengo echoed this statement in stating her desire to create a more involved community of students, she said “I would really like to promote a series of wellness workshops and activities … I think it would help the Fordham community come together.” But she also views this as a learning experience, “I think USG
does a great job already and I believe I’m the best candidate, but I really want to learn more and I would be thrilled to be a part of the team,” she said. Seyad, however, banks on his experience in campaigning. “Last year, myself and Rory [Hanrahan] decided to run a more laid back election.
This year, if it is competitive, I plan to be a bit more active,” he said. “You will see posters all around McMahon and McKeon,” he added. Marengo does not want the campaign to be competitive, “I’d prefer it to be more fun than competitive, I think it’s important to keep in mind that it isn’t something to make en-
emies over,” she said. There is still room for more candidates to apply, as USG has extended its application period to Sept. 9 for senators from all classes. For the vice presidential race, all classes will likewise be eligible to cast their vote on OrgSync for their candidate.
Mayor de Blasio Fights with the New York Post, Fordham Students Respond By STEPHAN KOZUB Contributing Writer
Sparking a wave of criticism, Mayor Bill de Blasio posted a mockup cover of The New York Post to Twitter on Sept. 2 that read ‘Safest Summer In 20 Years But We Still Hate de Blasio.’ The tweet, which both responded to The New York Post’s criticism of de Blasio and highlighted new statistics showing that NYC has had a safer summer than usual, has led experts to criticize de Blasio for being both “thin-skinned” and not having the “temperament to run a city,” as a top political strategist said in an interview with The New York Post. There are mixed feelings among some students, however, regarding de Blasio’s use of social media, and if his response to The Post’s criticism was justified. “I think it was okay that [de Blasio] took a jab at [The New York Post] in response to the incessant criticism that he’s faced,” Paul Bury, Fordham College at Lincoln Center, (FCLC) ‘19, said. Defending themselves for this “incessant criticism” that led de Blasio to post the tweet, The New York Post said in an editorial that it was “a petty attack on a newspaper that has exposed serious issues.” Associate Professor of Political Science, Bruce Berg, disagreed. “Two points, who cares, and why should [de Blasio] care?” Berg said. “This is not a city that’s going to do
“ Two points, who cares and why should [de
Blasio] care? This is not a city that’s going to do what the New York Post tells it to do.” –
PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIER DOULIERY VIA TNS
Mayor de Blasio tweeted a mock up of The Post on Sept. 2
what The New York Post tells it to do.” Berg continued. He said, “no matter what de Blasio does, The New York Post is going to be opposed to him and his administration,” referring to The New York Post’s staff leaning politically “almost entirely to the right” and de Blasio being a “liberal Democrat.” This event, however, is not the first
time de Blasio has been criticized for potentially being thin-skinned. In late June, de Blasio criticized Cuomo for allegedly “sabotaging the city’s interests, being blinded by political scheming and showing no interest in honest policy making,” as The New York Times reported. “This is a complaint that every mayor has of the governor, regardless of who the mayor is and who the gov-
BRUCE BERG,
associate professor of political science
ernor is,” Berg said. “But past mayors, while certainly have been frustrated with what goes on in Albany, have never gone publicly against the governor. It’s counterproductive.” “When you put that together with The New York Post’s response, it certainly appears as if we have a mayor who has a glass jaw,” Berg continued. In addition to eliciting criticism, de Blasio’s tweet has brought light to the issue of how politicians should be utilizing social media. “On one hand, social media is useful to politicians to convey their ideas,” Cara Bieber, FCLC ‘19, said. “But on the other hand, it’s equally important for them to be professional.” This concept of politicians using social media, but exercising restraint, was echoed by Tamara Soueidan, FCLC ‘19, who said that “politicians should be mindful of what they post because it’s easy to forget how much impact they have.” For Berg, the answer to the prob-
lem is politicians “simply knowing how to use [social media accounts],” he said. “Politicians are playing catchup in not only knowing technically how to use [social media], but figuring out ‘once I know how to use it, what do I do with it.’” Along with how politicians should be using social media, Berg brought up how they should be responding to the media as a whole. “Frequently, it’s the news media that raises issues that need to be responded to,” Berg said. Listening to these issues and responding to them, however, is not the problem according to Berg. “[The problem is] when chief executives over personalize attacks by media.” As de Blasio’s administration moves forward, Berg suggested what needs to be done in regards to reacting to criticisms: “Why legitimize [The Post’s] response? Just ignore it.”
Opinions Co-Editors Tyler Burdick- tburdick1@fordham.edu Lexi McMenamin- amcmenamin4@fordham.edu
Opinions
September 17, 2015
STAFF EDITORIAL
ON THE “BIAS” INCIDENT
THE OBSERVER
Observer the
Editor-in-Chief Adriana Gallina
O
nly a few short weeks ago, we welcomed the newest generation of Rams to our campuses by chanting our Ram tradition in unison: “WE ARE FORDHAM.” We stood then as a united student body, ready and willing to grow in new and exciting ways. Now, this unity is needed once again. Earlier this week, one of the newest members of our ‘Ramily’ went back to their dorm, their new home, only to find a message of hate scrawled across their door. This is a far cry from the warm welcome that students have come to expect from us. Members of our community have been made to feel that they do not truly belong. This we vehemently deny. No one should be made to feel that they do not belong at Fordham because of their skin color, background, ethnicity, sex, gender, etc. Our friendships, our resilience and our moral strength in trying times are what makes the foundations of this community. In diffi-
cult and in good times, we are still Fordham. No one can change that, not even the person who committed this act. To be a Fordham Ram is to be a positive influence on our community and an integral and necessary part of this school. Fordham would not be the same without
“No one should be made to feel that they do not belong at Fordham because of their skin color, background, ethnicity, sex, gender” each and every one of its students working to make this school what it is. The only person who deserves to lose this identity is the perpetrator who committed this act. The only
person who is NOT Fordham is that perpetrator. We are Fordham. A community that, in fewer than 24 hours of being alerted of the racist slur, organized dialogues and support groups so that we may move forward, together. A community, true to the Jesuit tradition, that cares even when confronted with the ugliness of the world, does not shy away from dealing with it head on and with passion and grace. A community, true to the Jesuit tradition, that cares for the whole person and not only recognizes but celebrates the dignity and uniqueness of each person. And in a community like this, with it’s successes and stumbles, there is only one constant that needs to be remembered. You Are Fordham. No one can ever take that away. To anyone who felt marginalized by this act, we stand with you. We are Fordham.
Managing Editor Ben Moore News Co-Editors Ana Fota Connor Mannion Asst. News Co-Editor Jennifer McNary Opinions Co-Editors Tyler Burdick Lexi McMenamin Asst. Opinions Co-Editors Areeg Abdelhamid Annunziata Santelli Arts & Culture Co-Editors Loulou Chryssides Sri Stewart Features Co-Editors Alanna Kilkeary Hansini Weedagama Literary Co-Editors Jessica Vitovitch Erika Ortiz Asst. Literary Co-Editors Kayla D’Angelo Connor Mannion Sports Co-Editor Matthew McCarthy Kathleen Kirtland Asst. Sports Editor Marcela Alvarez Copy Chief Alysha Kundamal Copy Editors Brianna Goodman Asst. Copy Editors Chrissy Pusz Kaitlyn Lyngaas Tyler Burdick Layout Co-Editors Jennifer McNary Elodie Huston Multimedia Producer Ninett Rodriguez Asst. Multimedia Producer Jesse Carlucci Photo Co-Editors Jessica Hanley Jess Luszczyk Asst. Photo Editor Jason Boit
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Opinions
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Our Silence is Facilitating Oppression in Egypt Areeg Abdelhamid Asst. Opinions Editor
Recently, the hashtag #FreeAJStaff went viral following the sentencing of Al Jazeera journalists Egyptian Baher Mohamed and Canadian national Mohamed Fahmy, who were sentenced to three years in prison after they were accused of “spreading false news” and airing biased coverage. It is obvious that the verdict was motivated by political interest and was not about bringing justice. The trial of the Al Jazeera journalists has placed the Egyptian government under a spotlight for their oppressive suppression of dissent, while the United States merely witnesses in silence. Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, who is representing Fahmy in the case, said that the verdict sends a “dangerous message that there are judges in Egypt who will allow their courts to become instruments of political repression and propaganda,” which not only affects Egypt, but also the rest of the Middle East. Even though Egypt is the United States’ most important ally in the region, this case doesn’t seem to concern us as much as it should. The recently-released detailed ruling published by the Middle East News Agency (MENA), which is run by the Egyptian government, said that Mohamed, Fahmy and Australian journalist Peter Greste are default members of the banned terrorist organization known as the Muslim Brotherhood. “It has been proven beyond reasonable doubt that the Al-Jazeera media channel has dedicated its broadcasting to the service and support of the Muslim Brotherhood faction and that they have permanently sided with them at the expense of their media ethics,” the ruling said. “This provides enough ground for a conviction of belonging to a group based on violations of the law.” Back in 2013, Mohamed and Fahmy had been falsely charged
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMINA ISMAIL VIA TNS
The trial and incarceration of Al Jazeera journalists has shown that Egypt is no longer a safe place for free speech.
with “aiding a terrorist organization,” the Muslim Brotherhood. Perhaps it was because Al Jazeera was reporting the Rabaa Square protests, in which el-Sisi had ordered a mass killing of more than 1,150 protesters, which Human Rights Watch documented and called “the world’s largest killings of demonstrators in a single day in recent history.” Mohamed and Fahmy, who were on bail ahead of the verdict after spending more than 400 days in detention, have once again returned to Tora prison. Additionally, Greste, who was deported to his home country under a law that allows the transfer of foreigners on trial to their home country following his detention, was retried on the same charges in absentia. After the army overthrew former President Mohammed
Morsi in 2013, Egyptian authorities revoked the license of Al Jazeera’s Egyptian channel and forced it to shut down. There has been a heavy crackdown on journalists and voices of dissent since President Sisi seized power in an effort to “end terrorism” and what he believes is Islamic insurgency. This repression of the media and political opposition shows that “journalists can be locked up for simply doing their job, for telling the truth and reporting the news,” as claimed by Clooney. Even though the United States has denounced Egypt’s new counterterrorism law and is worried about the effect that it would have on human rights in the country, it hasn’t done much to take action. In fact, after Secretary of State John Kerry visited Egypt in early August
to meet with Sisi, he said that the United States’ relationship with the Middle East is returning to a “stronger base.” In order to honor the relationship, the United States had generously agreed to provide the Egyptian military with eight F-16 fighter jets this past July, and four more during the fall, to fight terrorism and Islamic Fundamentalism. But clearly, the United States’ priority isn’t to take action on behalf of the Al Jazeera journalists and set the record straight, nor does it seem that this is even an item on our agenda. With a verdict like this, there doesn’t seem to be any room for journalists who actually want to do their jobs, and their lives are placed in danger because the government fears their existence. I think that President Obama
needs to meet with Sisi in order to discuss the concerns of human rights organizations and the international community, which include media repression. Following the Egyptian Revolution, Egyptians used to take to the streets as a method of saying “enough is enough,” but the protest law which went into effect in 2013 illegalizes the gathering of more than five people without consent from government authorities. Those who protest will receive prison sentences and heavy fines. So now, the only method that Egyptians used to bring about honest change is banned. The United States needs to reassess which countries we give aid to and what kind of aid we give—especially when those countries have violated the basic natural rights of their citizens.
Please Don’t Ban Controversial Required Reading Books Annunziata Santelli Asst. Opinions Editor
The censorship of required reading in schools is a contentious subject in the United States. It often exacerbates issues of freedom of speech and religion while revealing the social and political values of the affected communities. Recently, two events regarding the possible censorship of required readings have been publicized. At Duke University, a group of incoming freshmen have refused to read the novel “Fun Home,” which has become a Tony Award-winning play. Parents in Duval County, Fla., have started a Facebook campaign to remove two books about the Middle East from the third grade curriculum. In both cases, the individuals trying to ban the books identify as Christians, and feel that the books challenged their beliefs. However, trying to ban required reading on that basis is unfounded, because required reading shouldn’t be viewed as persuasive or institutionalizing. Rather, potential readers should be more open to the opportunities for cultural growth that these stories provide. Jack Corrigan of WGNtv.com described “Fun Home” as the story of artist and author Alison Bechdel “coming to terms with her homosexuality and discovering that her father, who commits suicide, was gay.” Though homosexuality and
suicide are oftentimes taboo topics in certain religious environments, “Fun Home” contains themes that go beyond these topics that make it into a viable required-reading story. For college students, the intended audience, the fact that the main character is a young adult that goes through changes in her sense of self and endures emotional turmoil is very important. Duke’s faculty assigned the book to incoming freshman, many of whom experience anxiety and degrees of self-discovery when taking on new environments and situations. The fact that Alison is realizing her true sexual nature certainly qualifies as a new emotional challenge, so she becomes a very relatable character. If the students who refused to read the book had simply looked beyond the surface of the storyline and its controversy, they would have been able to gain insight into their own emotions by sympathizing with Alison’s experience. The two books with stories based in the Middle East are “Nasreen’s Secret School” and “The Librarian of Basra.” The first is about a young girl whose grandmother, at personal risk, enrolls the child in a secret school for girls in Afghanistan. The second is about Alia Muhammad Baker, a librarian from Iraq who tries to preserve her town’s book collection despite the region’s war. Both books are based on true events, which is notable considering one of the reasons that Duval County residents want
PHOTO COURTESY OF COVS97 VIA FLICKR
Books are increasingly being challenged because of their content.
to ban the books— to protect children of military families against anti-American war sentiments. However, since these are books designed for children, it’s unlikely that they contain heavy-handed political statements or depictions of harsh violence. And if they did, it’s unlikely that the children reading them would pick up on their subtleties. Instead, they offer American children a glimpse into the lives of their contemporaries in the Middle East. Neither gender is denied an education in the United States in
the ways that girls are in Afghanistan. “Nasreen’s Secret School” shows American children that there are individuals their age in the world who have to fight for the opportunity to better themselves and expand their minds. In this way, children in the United States are taught to value their educations and to realize their freedoms, which are the same freedoms and values that our military fights for. There is also a level of universality in Alia Muhammad Baker’s story, in that the attempt to save the books is an
attempt to save imagination and cultural awareness. Both books provide children with exposure to different cultures, and invite them to appreciate knowledge and the ability to learn. So although the characters in these books practice the Islamic faith, these books are not meant as conversion tools, and should not be banned from Florida elementary schools. Since required reading is by nature material that its current audience may not read on their own, the literature should be seen as an opportunity for students to expand their modes of thinking beyond their current views. Through a disruption of the reader’s personal morals, these readings combat ignorance on international culture. This is especially true when the characters in required readings come from very different situations than the people trying to ban them. Only through differences can one develop into a more intelligent individual, because differences allow for mental adaptation and the prevention of stagnation. Controversial required readings should remain required so that students who are developing their own views of the world, outside of the status quo of their parents, can shape their views with varied information. This will hopefully lead to increased levels of tolerance and understanding for foreign individuals and their communities, especially when polarized societies, both East and West, interact.
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September 17, 2015 THE OBSERVER
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2015 FALL NYFW The Observer photographers documented 2015 New York Fashion Week as it arrived for the first time in the Meatpacking District of Manhattan.
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Opinions
September 17, 2015 THE OBSERVER
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Young ISIS Supporters Cannot be Shown Leniency “ When these individuals are caught, the argu-
Tyler Burdick Opinions Co-Editor
In war, it is oftentimes the unseen enemy that creates more fear than the overt foe. The unseen enemy is an agent of subterfuge, able to dismantle the administration from the inside out, able to aid the overt enemy and possibly do it all without ever being detected by the host on which it acts as a parasite. In our nation’s past, our fear of the covert has frenzied us to the point where our response to the threat contained an insidious quality that rivaled that of our adversaries—insidious because the victims of our frenzy were innocent. Today our enemy is ISIS, the most chaotic destabilizing force in the Middle East at the moment, and in addition to our efforts to fight them there we must also deal with the knowledge that there are ISIS supporters who are citizens of the nations that tirelessly work to stop the bloodshed. Some of these supporters are so young that they have yet to even depart for college. When these individuals are caught, the argument is often made that, owing in part to their youth and naivety, they are actually victims of ISIS— indoctrinated to support inhumane and barbaric ideals, and thus we should show leniency when doling out punishment for their crimes. But these people are not victims—far from it, actually, and deserve no leniency. Looking back in our history, the actual victims of our frenzied and fearful panics have included the Japanese-Americans that lived among us in World War II, and the Muslim-Americans that resided in New York when 9/11 happened. Both groups were unfairly harassed and persecuted entirely
ment is often made that, owing in part to their youth and naivety, they are actually victims of ISIS.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF STRINGER/MCCLATCHY DC VIA TNS
The youth following that ISIS has gained in recent years facilitates the group’s brutal actions, and therefore does not deserve sympathy.
for their background, but the key distinction is that the vast majority of those that fell victim to prejudice actually had no active hand in the crimes that the Japanese Empire and al-Qaida, respectively, commit-
ted. That is how you define a victim. But the cases that pop up these days don’t involve individuals claiming innocence—they simply claim that they made a mistake and ask for forgiveness. In Virginia,
–
TYLER BURDICK , Opinions Co-Editor
17-year-old Ali Shukri Amin was revealed to be the user behind a proIslamic State Twitter account, which he used to make multiple connections to pro-IS supporters both here and in the Middle East. Using these connections, he was able to secure a flight for his friend, Reza Niknejad, who wanted to fight for ISIS. When Amin was caught and brought to trial, he told the judge that he had ultimately “denounced ISIS,” and had only originally supported it because he felt that it was a way for him to “deepen his religious faith.” It’s perfectly understandable that, when these sorts of cases come to light, we feel some sort of responsibility to be lenient towards the youth involved. Last year we saw two teenage girls from Austria, aged only 15 and 17, abandon their homes and families to travel to Syria, leaving behind only a note that read “Don’t look for us. We will serve Allah—and we will die for him.” Authorities believed that, upon arrival in Syria, the girls were married off to ISIS soldiers and impregnated. But it wasn’t long after that they re-established contact with their families and pleaded to be able to return home, claiming that they had made a big mistake. ISIS is very influential in the realm of social media and indeed it is through its cyber presence that it is able to gain the youth following
that it has. But we simply cannot take this into consideration. We can’t afford to. ISIS is a group that has outright murdered journalists and relief workers, some of which were citizens of the United States. People like Amin may not have pulled the trigger, but assisting in bolstering their military, even if it is by one soldier, is an act that should be equated to treason. It may not seem like much, but Amin literally helped ISIS kill more people. And the same thing can be claimed of anyone in any country that joins ISIS, promotes ISIS propaganda through social media or aids in the quest of others to join ISIS. And if the only defense is that they are “young, impressionable, and still have a lot to learn,” then the response shouldn’t be to show leniency when they affiliate themselves with ISIS. How else are they to become familiar with the true gravity of the situation and understand that we, the united international community, will not tolerate this senseless bloodshed any longer? We make laws and we invoke punishments in order to deter potential criminals from committing the offense. So when the question arises as to whether or not people like Amin should be tried as adults, regardless of age, and if such punishment fits the crime, the answer should be a resounding “absolutely.”
Hollywood, Please Start Addressing Global Warming The Problem is Snowballing and Big Budget Films Need to Stop Blowing it Aside
Kaylee Kilkenny Contributing Writer
I believe escapism is indispensable to the movie viewing experience, and thus filmmakers will do anything to properly and convincingly build their cinematic worlds. But as of late, I’ve begun to wonder if the means by which some Hollywood productions are going to are worth it. Today we deal with the obvious looming issue of of global warming, and it is especially beginning to affect movie productions. Quentin Tarantino recently found himself in a predicament as he delved into production of his film “The Hateful Eight.” While, in the film, the characters find themselves inconvenienced by the onslaught of a blizzard, Tarantino and his crew ran into the opposite problem during production in January, struggling to attain the snowy tundra he desired for the film. As co-star Channing Tatum said to Vanity Fair this summer, “Quentin asked one of the guys that took him into this mountain, ‘What are the chances of us getting an actual blizzard?’ He said 100 percent. Well, they had a record low amount of snow that year.” But instead of simply accepting that snow has become a rare commodity, Hollywood should be using situations like these to better inform the public of just how impactful global warming has become. Tarantino’s isn’t the only production team running into this ever escalating problem. Amongst those productions fighting against the weather is the “Fargo” production team which had to battle record
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL R PERRY VIA FLICKR
Hollywood productions are often forced to simulate cold weather when it cannot be found naturally.
highs during the first season shoot, and, a year later, record lows. This dicey weather has no signs of letting up. In fact, according to a study published this year in the journal “Nature Climate Change,” the higher global temperatures that have increased four-fold since the Industrial Revolution could increase
even more. With Hollywood experiencing problems with their location shoots due to the extreme weather conditions, many a production has submitted to expensive alternatives, including renting equipment to create snow for a shoot that can cost up to $100,000, as was the case with Fargo’s production team. Taking all
this information into account, it’s time for the conversation to change from one of alternatives and their dollar costs to more on the question of the artistic cost this situation creates. Movie production teams are at a crossroads when it comes to shooting realistic winterscapes for their
films. Authentic wintry landscapes now require traveling to dangerous parts of the world, imperiling the cast and crew involved. So on one hand there is the choice to continue to risk it and go for these dangerous location shoots, which even then are unlikely to yield precisely what is expected like Tarantino’s case. On the other hand is the option to completely opt for expensive simulation machines, but both fail to discuss further the important topic at hand, and in fact both of these decisions actively ignore it. Now is a time where Hollywood needs to make the issue of global warming known, be it through documentaries like “An Inconvenient Truth” or through the “in” genre of the present, the postapocalyptic thriller. Now, both of these suggestions have their pitfalls. Documentaries are rarely as popular as your average big budget film, and even then there will still be members of the public who will dismiss the content. When it comes to the angle of integrating the conversation of climate change into fictional, big budget movies with climate change as the “antagonist”, there is still the case that people will leave seeing it as just a story. Even if neither idea is perfect they both are suggestions to Hollywood to at least do something, if nothing else get the conversation started. Get a public figure to be a part of a documentary to get more traction with public attention. Make movies like “Snowpiercer,” postapocalyptic and thrilling to get the public’s attention, even if through a fictitious story. Either way, say something more on the matter, Hollywood, don’t keep sweeping it under the rug.
Arts & Culture
Arts & Culture Editor Sri Stewart-sstewart13@fordham.edu
September 17, 2015
THE OBSERVER
Fordham Theatre’s Season at the Mountaintop Matthew Maguire and Carla Jackson discuss the selection process and inspiration of this theme By SRI STEWART Arts & Culture Editor
Every year, Fordham at Lincoln Center’s theatre program has a themed production season for its main stage shows, which are meant to reflect the current times. For the 2015-2016 school year, Fordham Theatre will be presenting “A Season at the Mountaintop.” The title is an homage to Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speech in Memphis on April 3, 1968 at Mason Temple. There, he explained that he went to the mountaintop and saw a “promised land” where people are united. The theme is aimed to give a response to racial violence that has been going on throughout the United States, such as the deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner. Four shows, two in the fall semester and two in the spring, will highlight the theme’s issues. Unless one is a theatre student, it is not easily known how exactly the selection process works in deciding a theme. Matthew Maguire, theatre program director and head of the performance track, explained that it is a collaborative effort. Students and faculty are invited to forums throughout the year. “We discuss what’s going on in the world at the present moment; what are urgent questions gnawing at them?” Maguire said. According to both Maguire and Theatre Program Administrator, Carla Jackson, it is essential that art reflect the times. “That to me is the definition of an artist,” Maguire said. Both Maguire and Jackson cited musician and civil rights activist Nina Simone as their inspiration. She defined an artist in the same way and saw it as her duty to reflect the times because issues are so prevalent that one cannot help but be involved. Students were outspoken about recent racial violence and division in society. The first issue students proposed for a theme was police
PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHRYN GAMBLE/COURTESY OF MATTHEW MAGUIRE)
Matthew Maguire
PHOTO COURTSEY OF DWAYNE HALL/COURTESY OF CARLA JACKSON)
Carla Jackson
brutality, but Maguire and others were worried that that focus might be too narrow. They decided on a theme that would reveal issues of race, power and identity. On Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech, Maguire reflected, “In my sense he had a vision of a time and a place when everyone is included. [Therefore] We present a season in which everyone sees themselves represented, and everyone sees themselves welcome.” In addition, there are questions that arise to address the issues that the theme embodies. “What excellent plays can we link so that they
talk to one another and to us about the crisis? How can the plays we stage make an impact on the larger lives we lead?” Jackson said. She also revealed that the idea of identity is a recurring theme in all of the plays. The four plays that were selected are unique and related in some way: “Force Continuum,” “The Orphan of Zhao,” “The Owl Answers” and “White People.” The first has to do with police brutality and how white and black officers deal with it. The second is a translated Chinese play on the abuse of power, which will be
the first Asian classic that Fordham Theatre does. The last two are more explicitly about race: the third on a biracial woman dealing with her identity, as well as sexuality, and the fourth on white people having to examine racism and prejudices that lie within themselves. Maguire also explained the length of time involved when developing the theme. Conversations began in the fall of 2014. By May, an official announcement was sent by email blast to the theatre students. However, students were not necessarily surprised about the selection.
“[Details] slowly sift out through conversations and meetings,” Maguire said. Some students were at every meeting, and they may spread the word; it is not meant to be a secret among the theatre students. Maguire added, “One of the ways to get involved in their own training is to have a voice in the season selection.” The first main stage play will be “Force Continuum” from Oct. 8-10 and Oct. 14-16. Main stage shows are in Pope Auditorium.
The Comma Interrobang,
New Beginnings By KAYLA D’ANGELO Asst. Literary Editor
The first day after I moved out of my parents’ house, I dyed my hair black and blue and chopped it off to my chin. It was possibly the most absurd thing I could have done; rather than doing the rational thing and going to a professional (if sudden impulsive radical changes can be rational), I convinced my roommate to do it for me. Thankfully, I didn’t end up with the worst haircut on the planet. I did end up with a couple of very disgruntled parents, though. I tried to hide it from them at first, remembering the time in high school I told my mother I wanted to cut my hair short and she warned me that I would look like a “dyke.” I did cut it short, and it ended up being her favorite haircut I’d ever had. She always judges until she knows. The first week I had cropped my hair, I wore a beanie every time
I video-called home. My mother was suspicious right away; she’d convinced herself I only wear the beanie when I don’t shower. But she did come around the first time I cut my hair; she’ll learn to appreciate what this haircut meant to me, too. Even though I knew they would be angry when they saw it, and even though I do value my parents’ opinions, I didn’t regret cutting my hair. I remembered growing up watching Mulan, learning that in many cultures cutting one’s hair is a symbol of cutting ties and new beginnings. Technically speaking, I’ve been an adult for a year now; my new beginning has already begun, so to speak. But of course, I didn’t exactly have a sword on hand to cut my hair symbolically the way Mulan did, so I had to make due with scissors. I could make do with a delayed beginning. Each piece of hair hitting
the ground felt like an expectation I was letting fall to the wayside. In some ways, though it’s a fairly common action, it’s the most freeing thing I’ve ever done. In the course of three weeks, I got a tattoo, scheduled a vacation, dyed my hair black, dyed my bangs blue, cut a few inches off my hair and moved out. I’ve managed to somehow both appall and impress my parents in the process. I’m finally learning to be my own person after letting my parents make decisions for me for my entire life. This makes them proud as much as it scares them. My mother thinks I’ve hit my teenage rebellious phase a few years too late; I think I’m finally getting my new beginning.
See how fun The Comma is? We meet on Thursdays at 6 p.m.!
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Arts & Culture
THE OBSERVER September 17, 2015
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The Revival of Film Photography By YZABELLE ONATE Staff Writer
In the ever-growing digital age, everything is done quickly at the swipe of one’s finger. Countless photos are taken of food, outfits of the day (#ootds) and daily activities. What has become the norm for many today is an adjustment for those who are nostalgic for the past. Whether one buys old film equipment because it looks cool or because they actually use it, there’s no denying that objects of the past (vinyl, film, etc.) have been gaining popularity and recognition. Why are they becoming more popular? Despite the crisp, high quality videos and photographs that phones and cameras take, film is making a comeback. “I think it’s the time and energy that is calling people back. But I also think that it’s because everyone wants to be a hipster,” Austin Malone, Fordham at Lincoln Center, FCLC ’16, said. Even though it’s great to take a photo and immediately upload it, sometimes I feel sucked into the routine of take photo, add filter, upload to Instagram and wait for hundreds of likes. Film does not offer this opportunity of instant gratification, but it’s the process and activity that I enjoy most. Call me the minority, but I am one of thousands of people who still shoot with a 35mm camera and I often use it as my main method of capturing moments. What attracted me to film is the old, retro film quality and the unique way of preserving moments. There are many students at FCLC who also dabble in the art. Other FCLC students, such as Andrew Abbensett, FCLC ‘16, offered their opinion as to why film is making a
JESS LUSZCZYK/THE OBSERVER
The dark room in Fordham College at Lincoln Center’s visual arts center.
revival. Abbensett, a lover of film, shoots with a 35mm camera and develops his own photos. “Film is one of those things that preserves a more authentic and dated image. It’s great that there’s a retro revival; there’s an opportunity today because everything is going digital,” Abbensett said. Another opportunity presented today is the growing community
that is created due to Instagram and the art of photography. Individuals are exposed to millions of photos through one application, which introduces them to the variety of ways one can capture an image. This is done through the photos that are taken with a film camera, either by a photographer, blogger and so on. Andrew Lee, FCLC ’16, does not know much about film. However, he
offered his opinion on the matter; “My guess is that it has to do with the shooting experience. Analog cameras give you a satisfying feeling when you produce good, quality pictures,” Lee said. Victoria Monaco, FCLC ’16, agreed; “It requires a different skill set; it’s not something that can be fixed afterwards. Digital media has sped up our lives and film is a nice way to take a step back and
think.” It seems as if it’s the process and hard work put into the photos that contributes to the attraction to film. It’s a rewarding experience to know that from start to finish, you created a piece of artwork and personal expression. Very much like Monaco said, film offers one a different viewpoint on life and forces people to step back and enjoy the moment.
Shows to Fall in Love With By LOULOU CHRYSSIDES Asst. Arts & Culture Editor
AMERICAN HORROR STORY: HOTEL
When the semester gets stressful, many students will take comfort in their favorite television shows. Whether someone finds a potential zombie takeover to be compelling or a laugh out loud show about a famous doctor interesting, here is a list of a few shows to look forward to in order to make the semester a bit less stressful.
The fifth season of the hit series takes place at the Hotel Cortez, run by Lady Gaga. Expect to see creepy Shining-esque blonde children roaming the hallways, along with other scares around every corner. The series stars Kathy Bates, Matt Bomer, Denis O’Hare, Sarah Paulson, and others. ‘American Horror Story: Hotel’ premieres Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 10 p.m. on FX.
DR. KEN
HOMELAND
Did anyone know that Ken Jeong, the actor who played the infamous Mr. Leslie Chow in the “Hangover” trilogy is a doctor? His new series, “Dr. Ken,” is based on his experience as a doctor before he broke into the acting world. ‘Dr. Ken’ premieres on Friday, Oct. 2 at 8:30 p.m. on ABC.
The series mainly focuses on the life of Carrie Mathison, a CIA agent battling bipolar disorder. The upcoming season takes place in Germany, two years after the cliffhanger ending of the previous season. “Homeland” premieres on Sunday, Oct. 4 at 9 p.m. on Showtime.
FEAR THE WALKING DEAD
The spin-off to the massively popular series, “The Walking Dead,” is a prequel set in Los Angeles. The show follows the Clark family, as signs of a potential zombie apocalypse begin to appear. The impending doom is certain to test the family in order for them to survive. Expect plenty of zombies at every corner. “Fear The Walking Dead” airs on Sundays at 9 p.m. on AMC.
Fashion Week Talk with Student Blogger, Anna Devine By BARBARA VILLENA Staff Writer
This month, an event to keep in mind is the heavily anticipated New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Designers from BCBGMAXAZRIA to Rebecca Minkoff, to Badgley Mischka and more are expected to debut their Spring/Summer 2016 collections. Unlike last season’s event at Lincoln Center, this season the event will be held in two new locations. The first is the Skylight at Moynihan Station on West 33rd Street, and the second is Skylight Clarkson Square on Washington Street. Keep in mind that from Sept. 10-17, while the event is going on, traffic and heavy crowds in the city are likely. To help the Fordham community understand a little of what to expect on the runway, I sat down with Anna Devine, Fordham at Lincoln Center, FCLC’16, and also creator of the fashion blog, The Chic Cadet. This fashionista tells us to have “fun with our wardrobe.” She mentions that this year’s NYFW is also “moving away from blacks and dark fabrics into more colorful 1990s inspired looks.” In addition, Anna tells us “there
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ZANA NAJJAR/THE OBSERVER
Above is a Céline designer bag, which can be seen among the attendees at New York Fashion Week.
is the revival of vintage wear back on the runway.” And while there are many designers scheduled for this year’s NYFW, a couple to keep our eye out for is Anna Sui and DKNY. For those who may have missed last year’s NYFW don’t forget that an ankle boot is an essential part of your wardrobe this season. Take it from Anna Devine herself, who mentions that an “ankle boot is a key piece that can dress up or down any outfit.” In addition, some plaid here and there won’t hurt one’s wardrobe. While it may be challenging to step foot into the actual event, being part of fashion week is not impossible. Anna reveals that many designer stores often have special events during this week at their retail locations– events that one may want to partake in because they are just as fun and enjoyable without massive crowds. I encourage you all not to miss such an iconic event here in New York City. But if for one reason or another you cannot participate in the weeklong event, or have missed a few designer shows, most runway shows can be watched live on nyfw.com.
Features
Features Co-Editors Alanna Kilkeary—alannamartine@gmail.com Hansini Weedagama—hweedagama@fordham.edu
September 17, 2015
THE OBSERVER
A Day In the Life of a Fashion Intern By ALANNA MARTINE KILKEARY Features Co-Editor
In honor of New York Fashion Week (NYFW), Alanna shares a day in her life by the numbers as a digital editorial intern for Harper’s Bazaar and contributor for Olivia Palermo. This is what it’s like to intern in the fashion industry during its prime time. 7:00 A.M. My alarm goes off. I
groan in disbelief and attempt to open my eyes. I roll over and hit the snooze once. 7:10 A.M. My second alarm goes off. I don’t have much of a choice this time. I yawn, begin to stretch and hop out of my lofted bed on the 10th floor of McMahon. I grab my towel and four shower products I simply cannot live without: hair shampoo and conditioner by Bumble+Bumble, a St. Ives Brown Sugar body wash and Skintimate Shaving Gel. 7:20 A.M. I step out of the shower, brush my teeth and wash my face with First Aid Beauty’s Repair Wash. I enter my bedroom, get dressed and begin my makeup routine. 7:34 A.M. By now I’m lining my eyes with a gel liner. I prefer Bobbi Brown’s formula the most. I use a very thin angled brush to get the wing I like. Mascara, bronzer, blush, lip product and setting spray. I fill in my lips two times: once with liner, then lipstick over top. 7:56 A.M. I’ve blown my hair out and am putting on my shoes, spritzing my perfume of the day and grabbing my purse. 8:05 A.M. I’m out the Lowenstein front door, and I begin to head right down Ninth Avenue. 8:10 A.M. I’m in Dunkin’ Donuts, grabbing one caramel iced coffee and an everything bagel with cream cheese. 8:24 A.M. I enter Hearst Corporation on 57th and eighth, swipe my intern ID, and head up to the 19th floor, where all of the Hearst Digital Magazines have their offices. 8:39 A.M.: I have already put down my bag at my BAZAAR.com desk, and am making my way to the mailroom to pick up editor’s mail. Since it is fashion week, many press kits and last-minute invitations are in their mailboxes. 8:50 A.M. I have finished opening their mail and have placed it on their desks. I eat my bagel and I begin to schedule Pinterest posts for Harper’s Bazaar throughout the day. By 10:00 A.M. all of the editors have finally arrived, and I
ALANNA MARTINE/THE OBSERVER
A typical fashion show that I would attend.
begin building a few galleries and articles that will be published that afternoon, mainly Bazaar’s Style Secret and Beauty Secret. At 11:40 A.M. I start copying in-book pieces, and I begin building articles for them. Often, these galleries are, at minimum, made up of six items of makeup, shoes or garments. 12:30 p.m. I get an email to cover a show within 24 hours for OliviaPalermo. com. I quickly look up the runway and write away. 1:30 P.M. I finally get some lunch. I always go to this little French sandwich place on 8th Avenue, right by Juice Generation and Dunkin’. I like to get a mozzarella- tomato caprese sandwich,
with sea salt and vinegar chips. I also always get one Fiji water. 3:00 P.M. I have just sent in the finished piece for Olivia, and I am working on more article builds for Bazaar. 4:30 P.M. The editors send me to Balducci’s to pick up: two boxes of watermelon cubes, one banana, one iced coffee with almond milk, one black iced coffee and one iced coffee with soy milk. 5:50 P.M. I send my last few emails of the day, and sip the last of my Fiji water. 6:20 p.m. I’m finally home, and I begin to get ready for a fashion show for NYFW that I’m covering that evening. 7:00 p.m. I quickly make and eat one can of soup, and I add the
last finishing touches to my outfit and makeup: deep lipstick, strappy sandals and a neon clutch to die for. 7:30 P.M. I’m in a cab heading downtown, carrying my DSLR and updating my Twitter. 8:26 P.M. The show begins. I snap away with my camera and take notes rapidly. 8:45 p.m. The final walk is finishing, and the designer comes out to take a bow. Everyone is clapping. 8:50 p.m. I peruse backstage to snap some behind the scenes photos of the models and garments. 9:40 P.M. I finally leave the venue, goodie bag in hand. 10:20 P.M. I meet up with some friends and we attend a Fashion Week party. We order three mock-
tails, and fraternize with designers, press agents and models around us. Some are very kind and happy to chat. Some are not. 11:00 P.M. We dance, and about 20 different colored lights hit us in all directions on the dance floor. Some are strobing, others are simply flashing different colors. 11:15 P.M. We make it over to the photo booth, recording the night with silly props and a disposable camera. 11:30 P.M. I leave to go home, it’s been a long day. 12:00 A.M. I take off my makeup and I hop into bed. 12:05 a.m. I think to myself, “I can’t wait to do this again tomorrow.”
Tell Tale Tech: The Essentials By BEN MOORE Managing Editor/Online Editor
Certain tech accessories are going to make your life easier in college. Though they do come with an initial cost and will add weight to what you have to carry around, I promise all of these items are well worth those inconveniences. FLASH DRIVE:
Local storage will always be more convenient and reliable than anything in the cloud, especially given Fordham’s network. Flash drives are more versatile as well, as they accept mostly any file format and are not limited by upload or download limits. For now, make sure to buy a USB 3.0 (as opposed to USB 2.0) flash drive to get the fastest data transfer feeds. USB Type C is on the horizon, but there are not enough devices with these ports to make it practical yet. It also makes sense to get one with a good bit of storage (16GB should be enough for most), since data has become
“ I promise all of these items are well worth those incoveniences.” –
BEN MOORE, Managing Editor/Online Editor
so cheap. Bonus points if the flash drive doesn’t have a detachable cap. In my experience, it is a quite a pain to keep track of them. RECOMMENDED: Silicon Power B30 Flash Drive (16GB): $10 WIRELESS MOUSE:
Trackpads for the most part are just impractical. They’re fine for web browsing and maybe basic word processing, but if you intend to do anything that requires any precision, you will need a dedicated mouse. Seriously, try to use one for photo editing or writing long documents. It doesn’t end well. Avoid wired connections (unless you are a hardcore gamer) and opt for
mice that connect wirelessly either through Bluetooth or a USB receiver. Your productivity will increase almost immediately and computerrelated wrist pain will become a thing of the past. RECOMMENDED: Logitech M535 $38 DECENT HEADPHONES:
The headphones that came with your iPhone, Android phone or Windows phone are likely not very good. They usually are made of uncomfortable plastics, produce muddled sounds and have unreliable wiring. Rather than risk the physical and audible irritation that comes with them, do yourself a favor and pick up a pair of nicer head-
phones. If you treat them well, they will last at least a couple of years. Things to look out for are balanced sound production (not too bass or treble heavy), solid wires (ones that don’t look like they will fray easily) and removable ear pieces (for fitting and cleaning purposes). Reviewers will be quick to point out if earbuds have any of these problems, so make sure to check those out before a purchase. RECOMMENDED: Sennheiser CX 300 II: $35 PORTABLE CHARGER:
Don’t be limited by your access to outlets. Battery technology has not improved all that much in the last five years or so, but the amount of time we spend on our phones has increased substantially. Thus, it makes a lot of sense to carry around a portable charger (especially if you are a commuter), which are exactly what they sound like. You charge this charger and then can recharge your mobile device via USB cord. As an added perk, they store enough
power to completely recharge your device at least a few times and work more quickly than traditional wall chargers. RECOMMENDED: Viivant Slim USB Charger: $23 SD CARDS:
If you are a photographer or videographer of any kind, you will want to have lightning-fast SD cards for field use, as well as for transferring files. But not all SD cards are created equal when it comes to data transfer speeds. I wouldn’t recommend buying anything that has a transfer rate less than 45 MB/s. This might not be clearly labeled on the card itself, so spend the time reading through all the technical details before purchasing anything. Also, make sure you have enough storage. If you are shooting any video footage at all, 64 GB is the absolute minimum you will need. Photographers can get away with 32 GB, but it’s always nice to have the extra space. RECOMMENDED: SanDisk Extreme 64GB SDXC: $35
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THE OBSERVER
September 17, 2015
Features
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5 Things We Love About Fordham in the Fall By ALANNA MARTINE KILKEARY & HANSI WEEDAGAMA Features Co-Editors
1) The crunch of leaves under our every step as we walk through the plaza to class: What better than crisp foliage to really brighten your walk to your 8:30 class? Not only does our plaza really exhibit the fall spirit when the leaves turn, it’s a perfect area for a fall picnic or early evening study sesh. And, of course, your walks are never complete without a Caramel Apple Spice from Starbucks in hand. It’s pretty cool to have your own mini Central Park right outside your school, especially when it’s surrounded by the gorgeous buildings of Hell’s Kitchen and the Upper West Side. 2) The celebration of a Fordham Halloween: We know, it’s basically still “summer” and Halloween probably hasn’t even entered your mind yet (except for maybe the fact that CVS has already stocked up on a trillion boxes of candy) but Halloween at Fordham is a joy to celebrate. Seeing everyone dressed up in crazy costumes and heading off to the annual Halloween parade together is simply something you cannot miss. This is a day of mingling and conversation starters (aside from candy galore) and something every FCLC student should experience. 3) The sights, smells and sounds in the hallways during your first few weeks: Yeah, we know this is a weird one, but it’s something almost everyone looks forward to during the back-to-school month of September. There’s something about fresh notebooks, new textbooks, and brand new school supplies that just makes you feel rejuvenated and ready for a new beginning. It’s also nice to come back to a place with familiar sights, like Leon the security guard manning the front of McMahon; scents, like the freshly made quesadillas at the Ram Cafe; and even sounds, like
JESSICA HANLEY /THE OBSERVER
Isn’t it nice to redecorate your dorm room every school year?
blasting music from club events in the Atrium. And for all you brand new rams, you’ll soon learn that these sights, sounds and smells of Fordham will become a cherished part of your life here. 4) Reconnecting with professors: Fordham in the fall would not be complete without meeting your
brand new professors or reconnecting with your old ones after three long summer months. Whether it be an interesting class with a new professor you’ve never had, or finally meeting with your adviser after they’ve been gone on Sabbatical for a year, it is always a very special experience to finally put a name to a face, or pick up where you left off like old
friends. Fordham in the fall isn’t just about the atmosphere or the experience, it wouldn’t exist without the people who make it what it is. 5) Redecorating our apartments and dorms in McMahon and McKeon: Nothing is better than heading into your brand new apartment for a new fall semester and having a blank can-
vas to start anew. Whether you’re decorating your McKeon double with that gorgeous view of downtown, or buying all of your kitchen decor and appliances for a McMahon kitchen, this is one of our favorite parts of Fordham in the fall. And if you’re a commuter? Fall decorating at home or in your Fordham locker is just as fun!
FCLC’s School Survival Guide: Funny Ways to Make Friends By ALYSHA KUNDANMAL Copy Chief
By now I’m sure you’ve already introduced yourself to hundreds of people and have probably forgotten who they were the next day. Don’t worry, we’re all in the same boat, but everyone is (secretly) really sick of you sticking your arm out and saying “Hi! My name is New Friend. Nice to meet you!” in a voice that’s half an octave higher than your normal one. The first week of college has come and gone and so has your antiquated way of introducing yourself. It’s time to spice up your opening remarks and throw your chapstick at someone. No, that’s not some bizarre euphemism, I mean literally throw your chapstick at someone. That’s how I made my first friend at Lincoln Center, and we are still friends today. It was second semester of my freshman year and I was taking a class at Lincoln Center. I went to Rose Hill originally, but I already knew I wanted to transfer, so I hopped on the Ram Van in search of a more liberal classroom environment and, hopefully, some new friends. I sat down and looked around nervously, half-heartedly hoping someone would talk to me. I shuffled some stuff around in my backpack and overheard the guy next to me asking the girl on the other side of him for some chapstick. She pulled out a bright pink BabyLips. He grimaced a little and said, “Girl. You know that’s not my color.” Now’s my chance! I reached into my backpack and grabbed my mint colored EOS
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALYSHA KUNDANMAL/ THE OBSERVER
Alysha (pictured right) met her friend, Kyle Casey (pictured left), by throwing her chapstick at him - literally.
egg and haphazardly threw it to my left. Kyle, as I learned his name was, somehow caught it and smiled in my direction with a, “Thanks boo!” I stumbled through trying to give him my name while also assuring him it was “no big deal” that I had just let a stranger use my chapstick
without giving it a second thought. He handed me back the egg and I relaxed; The ice had been broken. Now I realize that this is a totally bizarre scenario and doing this would probably scare most people away. However, the moral of this story is what’s important. And no,
it is not that pink BabyLips isn’t Kyle’s color - well, maybe that’s one of the morals. What you should actually take away from this silly anecdote is that sometimes you can make friends in the most unconventional ways. Sure, at the time it may be awkward, but those are the
kind of scenarios that produce the best memories, stories and lasting friendships. Do you have any quirky stories about how you met one of your friends? Let us know! Email us at fordhamobserver@gmail.com [with your letter to the editor. ]
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Features
September 17, 2015 THE OBSERVER
www.fordhamobserver.com
Friday Finds in NYC: Where to Wander in NYC This Weekend NANOR HARTOUNIAN Staff Writer
If you’re craving inspiration... attend an event courtesy of New York Fashion Week! We have the privilege of waking up in one of the most fashionable cities in the world. This year, take advantage of it in a way that you might have previously thought was exclusive. Although the guest lists of notable designers do tend to cater to a prestigious crowd, that doesn’t mean that all aspects of the iconic seven days are out of reach. Check out TimeOut New York for innovative, exciting and free Fashion Week events. If you love television…watch your favorites from the small screen receive some well-deserved recognition! Spend the night of Sept. 20 taking part in a distinct form of stargazing by tuning into the 67th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. Hosted by SNL veteran Andy Samberg, the show will honor the best and brightest actors courtesy of some of our favorite guilty pleasure programs (Downton Abbey, anybody? No? Just me? Figured.) If you love movies…watch one in a location a little more exciting than the inviting, yet typical choice of your couch! Just because the semester has begun, that doesn’t mean that we can’t bask in the few summer-esque nights we have left. What better way to do so than watch a film under the stars (or in our case, under the constant fluorescent lights courtesy of the city that never sleeps.) Nevertheless, check out the NYC Department of Parks &
PHOTO COURTESY OF UMA KLEPPINGER/ BIKEYOGA.COM VIA TNS
Check out budget-friendly yoga classes at Yoga to the People.
Recreation website to see where you can watch a movie in any of the five boroughs for free. If you love spontaneity…go to an improv comedy show! The People’s Improv Theater, also referred to as The PIT, is a venue that hosts nightly shows, workshops and classes in
performance and writing. In other words, it pretty much has it all. If you’re tight on cash, make sure not to miss out on a show since they’re absolutely free. Visit the PIT’s website for more information! If you’re feeling stagnant…get moving! The stress and exhaustion
that comes with the beginning of classes is a tale as old as time. Getting up for a five mile run before your 8:30 a.m. history class or a tiring work day isn’t as appealing as getting some much needed shut eye instead. Avoid beating yourself up over missing a strenuous workout that never seemed to fit into your
schedule by taking a relaxing yoga class. Not only does Yoga to the People have locations scattered all around the city, but also charges a suggested donation of $10/class. Translation: donate what you can. Visit Yoga to the People’s website to find the studio nearest you.
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Sports Editors Matthew McCarthy - mmccarthy80@fordham.edu Katie Kirtland - kkirtland@fordham.edu
Sports
Septermber 17, 2015 THE OBSERVER
COURTESY OF KATIE KIRTLAND/THE OBSERVER
Fordham students Aryana Azari, FCLC 2017, Brianna Rivera, FCLC 2017, Katie Kirtland, FCLC 2017, and Jenny McNary, FCLC 2017, at the 2014 Homecoming Game.
Rams Take On Columbia for Homecoming By KATHLEEN KIRTLAND Sports Co-Editor
The homecoming football game is an integral part of any college experience. If you watch almost any television series revolving around college students, you will see an episode in which everyone goes to the homecoming game and debauchery ensues. While that is obviously an extremely exaggerated version of what happens, speaking from experience I can tell you that the homecoming game is where you will want to be on Saturday, Sept. 19. The Fordham Rams will take on the Columbia Lions on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. Students can attend
for free, provided they show their Fordham ID at the gate. General admission tickets can be purchased by parents, faculty and general Ram Fans for only $12 per ticket. Those can be purchased online, at the ticket office window starting the day prior to the game, or over the phone. If this year’s Homecoming attendees are to expect a similar experience to last year’s, there will be all kinds of free things to enjoy. Before last year’s game, t-shirts were given out on a first-come first-serve basis with the schedule for the remaining games on the back. The cheerleaders were working to temporary tattoo everyone who wanted one with block Fordham F’s ‐ I personally got
one on my cheek. For the Fordham University class of 2016 as well as students and faculty over the age of 21, there is a tent set up on Edward’s Parade across from Jack Coffey Field, where the game will be held. As you might have guessed from the age restrictions, alcohol will be served here to anyone of age. Naturally, many Fordham Lincoln Center students will wonder why they should bother paying for the Ram Van, and subsequently endure the jostling trek up there. To alleviate that monetary concern Campus Activity Board (CAB) is partnering with the Office of Student Leadership and Community Development (OSLCD) to spon-
sor a homecoming game Ram Van service for a limited number of students. If you sign up in their office, room 408 in Lowenstein, you will either be added to the list or put on the waitlist - I cannot stress enough how popular an event this is for students of both the Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses - for a free seat on a Ram Van and a free homecoming t-shirt courtesy of CAB and OSLCD. Of course, the Ram Van is still a little bumpy, but what can you do? That’s part of its charm. In addition to the football game, the President’s Ball is Friday night, Sept. 18, from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. This is a great night of music, dancing, and food - and who wouldn’t
want to go to a party hosted by President of Fordham University, Father Joseph McShane, S.J.? Again, this event is completely free. All that Fordham Lincoln Center students have to do is reserve a seat on the chartered busses set to take us to and from Rose Hill. You don’t even need to buy a ticket to get in, just make sure you have your Fordham ID. Homecoming weekend is a great time for Fordham students to come together and celebrate our school. Whether you go to one or both of these events, you will be left feeling an even greater sense of Fordham community, and it will not have cost you a thing.
NFL’s Integrity Challenged - A History of Violence By MATTHEW MCCARTHY Sports Co-Editor
On Aug. 26, Ahmad Brooks was charged with sexual battery. On Sept. 14, he was on the field for the San Francisco 49ers. Since 2012, seven players on the 49ers were arrested for charges ranging from driving under the influence to domestic violence. Of those seven, four are still currently on National Football League (NFL) rosters. We can argue whether Tom Brady deserved to be suspended or if “Deflategate” was really that controversial, but the fact remains: a player charged with sexual battery should not be playing in an NFL game. In the last few years, there have been numerous high-profile cases of violence traced back to NFL players that have not resulted in significant punishment. After punching his wife on an elevator, an act that was caught on surveillance video, Ray Rice was initially only suspended for two games. He was later suspended for the entirety of the year, but is currently eligible to return to an NFL team. He isn’t the only player with a violent past allowed to take the field in the NFL.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK GAIL/VIA TNS
Ahmad Brooks played nearly a month after facing criminal charges.
Adrian Peterson is also set to return this season after serving a year’s suspension for a misdemeanor charge of recklessly assaulting his four-year-old son. He fittingly faced off against Ahmad Brooks and the
49ers on Sept. 14. After being found guilty of assaulting his ex-girlfriend, former Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy was suspended for all of last season and the first four games of this season. Despite his actions, he was given an $11.3 million
contract from the Dallas Cowboys and will play for them in a couple of weeks. Just this week, Aldon Smith was signed by the Oakland Raiders. Smith was one of the seven 49ers arrested over the past three years. Since 2012, Smith was arrested five times for various charges, ranging from driving under the influence to illegal possession of an assault weapon. Smith was given a contract of $1.25 million in base salary with the possibility of earning up to $8 million with incentives. Clearly NFL teams are placing greater importance on the playing ability of these athletes than the character of the individuals representing them. The NFL was prepared to suspend Tom Brady for four weeks, because he was “at least generally aware” that footballs were being tampered with. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s response to the allegations of air deflation was swift, while he will sit back and let a player convicted of sexual battery continue to play until facts are gathered and a court decision is made. Brady was initially going to be ineligible to play due his actions be-
ing detrimental to the integrity of the game. Somehow, someone who is charged with sexual battery and another who assaults his wife are eligible to play. The problem is simple: Brooks is allowed to play, while Tom Brady was forced to bring his case before a federal court for a chance to get his suspension lifted. If the NFL wants to uphold the integrity of the game, maybe it should begin to look at its history of criminal superstars who represent the league. Only when players who beat their children or assault a female are out of the league forever will the game have any integrity. If you or someone you know is the victim of domestic violence, there is help available. To report child abuse or neglect, contact New York State Central Register (SCR) Child Abuse and Maltreatment Hotline by calling 1-800-342-3720. To report other forms of domestic violence, call the New York State Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906. Fordham’s Public Safety is always here to help as well and they can be reached at 212-636-6076. Of course, if you are ever in immediate danger, you can always call 911.