The Aquilian - March 2022 - Vol. 83 No.5

The Aquilian

March 2022 Volume 83 Number 5

Gonzaga College High School Men For Others Since 1821

19 Eye St, NW Washington, DC 20001

Map By: Peter Oryshkewych, Grandfather of Mr. Oryshkevych

From a Gonzaga Perspective: War in Ukraine By: JP Felmlee ‘22 Foreign Affairs Contributor Mr. Oryshkevych, a first generation Ukrainian-American, is a valued member of Gonzaga’s faculty. After graduating from Gonzaga in 1999, he taught 5th grade at Resurrection School in New York City for two years and for eight years at St. Peter’s Preparatory in Jersey City, NJ. Feeling a personal call to return to Eye Street and teach students the beauty of European History and the faults of totalitarianism, Mr. Oryshkevych became a beloved mentor and teacher to many Eagles in his past eight years of teaching here on campus.

WJA Science Fair, 2

Q. What are your general thoughts on the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

A. I think there’s no other way of putting this invasion into words except for the fact that it is unjust, it is unprovoked, and a true crime against the people of Ukraine that Russia invaded a sovereign nation. But I guess that it is not necessarily a surprise given that the conflict started many years ago, so this isn’t anything new; it’s just that a lot of people thought that they would never go to this extent to invade, and yet here we are. It is very sad to watch as it all unfolds before your eyes.

Q. What exactly are Ukrainian migrants going through right now as over a million have fled major cities into NATO-aligned countries?

A. Well it’s very difficult for them. A lot of people have come across the western borders of Ukraine to nations like Poland, Slovakia, Romania, and Moldova with the vast majority of those people going towards Poland. And one of the things that has been most difficult for people moving across that border is that their phones don’t always work. So when they try to communicate or use the internet, it’s very difficult for people to reach out to somebody to find food and simply

a place to stay. But it is March there and while it is a little warmer here seasonably, it is still late winter - early spring - there, and in some cases there is still snow on the ground. The men are not allowed to leave, especially if they are between the ages of 18 and 60, I believe. So you see a lot of women and children crossing the border just trying to figure it out.

Winter Olympics, 5

Senior Reflections, 7

2022 Albums, 12

Q. Do you have family currently in Ukraine or have fled to a bordering country?

If you would not mind me asking, how are they and what are they going through right now?

A. I think when COVID happened, communication

kind of broke off with them.

They are in the western part of the country and they are more distant now - not family that we see very often. It is more of a “hello” phone call for Christmas and Easter and that sort of thing. They are in one of the small villages outside of the major cities. So my assumption is that they are okay; I doubt that they have fled because they are also older. But we haven’t heard from them, even with all of this going on. Not that I’m immediately worried, but I have actual friends that are on the ground there, and they are preparing for the danger that possibly lies ahead. They Continued on p. 2

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Continued from Page 1 are preparing in all of the ways you would possibly expect for war.

Q. Do you believe the US is handling this situation well, especially after Biden’s recent condemnations of the Russian Oligarchs and Putin in his State of the Union?

A. It’s hard to answer this question because I know I was born here while having that close connection with where my father is from and my family in general. Of course I would love for the US to “do more,” but unfortunately Ukraine is not in the NATO alliance and they are not a part of the EU, so they are not a part of the “club” that would afford them all of those protections if they were actually in it. That being said, can the US and Biden do more? Of course they could do more. There’s talk right now of lessening the reliance on Russian oil and gas - which would probably have some effects on us - but if you really want to send a message to Russia to get them to stop, then one of the ways to do that is to stop sending them money for goods and services. A lot of other businesses and industries have cut off operations, so what is to say we can’t do that. I also believe that there

Ukraine side. I don’t need to know everything that is going on, I just hope and pray that things are being done. I know that the Ukrainian-American community in the US - and everyone who knows someone who is Ukrainian - has been very supportive in sending money and supplies with medical equipment to help treat people. You can send weapons; you can send aid. It gets very dicey when you are not in the alliance and you are sending this stuff that could result in a provocation by the Russians to attack NATO in general. It’s hard for me to say because I understand how the world works. It’s dreadful. There’s no other way of putting it.

NATO could also close the sky but who knows how Russia and Putin would take such a move. It could still be considered a “defensive” maneuver.

Q. Are you surprised that Russia has used thermobaric weapons on civilian targets only a week into the fighting?

A. If that is indeed the case that Russia is using these types of weapons, then it is appalling, it is disturbing, and it’s all very sad because Mr. Putin has said that they are “on a mission to help” Ukraine. He said

Map By: Peter Oryshkewych, Grandfather of Mr. Oryshkevych

are things going on that we may not be publicly aware of, but here’s where I hope the forces of good are on our

they are here on a mission to denazify, demilitarize, and not aim at civilian and apartment complexes. But

Science Fair

what you see on the news and other sources online is the opposite: civilians are indeed being targeted. And so weapons like this are being used? I wouldn’t be surprised because what Putin and the Russian government have been saying have been lies. When you have a country that says they are going to allow for civilian retreats yet continue to shell the cities as those people are leaving, it is hard to take them seriously or believe what they are saying. If this is indeed what is going on, then I guess I am not surprised at all.

Q. What can the Gonzaga student body do to support Ukraine?

A. Two things. First and foremost, be informed. Read your news, talk about this, and get the word out. Another alumnus and I did a webinar on Wednesday 2 March talking about this topic, and it was a little over an hour long. We covered a lot of the important points as to what is going on here. It is important to be informed because, God forbid, this escalates.

And hopefully it doesn’t, but you need to understand why this is going on and why it is important. I think that some people may not realize or think it is as important as it is - but it really is.

And number two, and I am still in the beginning stages of this, I hope that soon we can do a little drive at Gonzaga to gather humanitarian aid to send over there so that people who are fleeing, people who are refugees, people who need medical attention, people who are helping them out have those necessary materials to help those who are in the greatest need. So those are the two things: get the word out that this is happening and understand why this is important, and two, be on the lookout for a humanitarian aid drive.

The Aquilian Founded In 1940 Gonzaga College High School 19 Eye Street NW Washington, DC 20001 Men For Others in the Jesuit Tradition Since 1821

Editor-in-Chief John Ferrara ‘22

By: Abe Cutler ‘23 Contributor

On the night of February 25th, a group of Gonzaga and Washington Jesuit Academy students gathered under the lights of the Upper Commons to present their colorful trifolds to a panel of five judges, which included renowned scientists and professors. Months prior, the students met for the first time in Cleary to chart an

ambitious new path: the creation of a new collaborative endeavor to introduce eighth graders to the world of high school science. Headed by John Corso, a junior, and Mr. Hudspeth, a new science teacher at Gonzaga, the students met their partners for the first time and began to brainstorm ideas for their months-long projects.

Students had to develop partnerships with each other and effectively organize their time in order to be able to come to Gonzaga and carry out experiments. They also had to work together to analyze their results and discuss their experiment’s realworld implications.

The night of the Fair went quite smoothly. Each group set up their presentations in

the Lower Commons and explained their projects to interested students and teachers. Ultimately, Jack Deye, Timothy Lis, Aidan Friedman, John Broome, and their WJA partners all won awards for their fantastic presentations, but the overall delivery of everyone’s project was something special.

Gonzaga students, has all that has been said piqued

your interest? Hopefully so.

I worked on the Fair myself, and it sparked my personal interest in biological research as well as helped me plan out something extensive and guide a younger student. Our projects were very diverse, and they included experiments in biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. The final result as we were gathered in the Lower Commons the day of the Fair was quite impressive. The time commitment, though significant, should not be such a turn off. Simply consider it, for if you’re interested in a potential career as a scientist or simply trying to build bonds with other students, it’s well worth the effort.

Editors Chris Bunn ‘22 Jack McGuinness ‘22 Peter Mildrew ‘22 Noah Potholm ‘22 Jackson Baldrate ‘23 Luke Gormsen ‘24 Moderator: Dr. Harry Rissetto

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News in Asia

SCOTUS Nomination

By: John Renehan ‘25 Contributor

By: Teddy Friesz ‘24 2019. The future is unknown Contributor of what will come of the Thailand - Failing tourism once-famous tourist attracRecently, President Biden economy tions in the country. nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the SuThailand’s tourist economy Indonesia - 6.7 magnitude preme Court after Justice is vital to the country’s in- earthquake scare Stephen Breyer announced come. Tourism accounts for his plans to retire at the end 45% of the country’s income. On Monday, March 14, an of the 2021-22 term. This has Since the coronavirus out- earthquake of over 6.7 mag- come after an intense vetting break, many visitors have nitudes hit Sumatra, one of process conducted by the been banned from entering Indonesia’s main islands. Biden Administration for a the country, dealing a large The earthquake caused some new Supreme Court Justice. hit to the country’s tourism level of panic to the popula- Biden stated during the 2020 branch. For a period of time, tion, but many people soon election that he planned to the country lifted restric- calmed down after there was appoint a black woman to less threat of a tsu- the Supreme Court in the nami. event of a vacancy. Jackson’s nomination fulfills this camMalaysia - Re- paign promise, making her opening borders the first black woman ever after 2 years nominated to the Supreme Court. To many, Jackson’s Malaysia has offi- nomination marks the becially declared that ginning of a more diverse on Apr 1, 2022, the court that, supporters say, nation will reopen better represents the racial its borders to tour- makeup of the United States. ists and citizens to While Jackson’s appointtravel in between ment would certainly be histhe country. Ma- toric in a number of ways, it laysia has been un- would not, however, change der a lockdown and the political makeup of the travel ban for over Supreme Court, as Jackson tions, but visitors were wary 2 years since its beginning would simply replace anof the virus and the country in March 2020. However, other liberal Justice, Stephen saw only a fraction of visi- growing Omicron infections Breyer. Nonetheless, Jacktors compared to previous have led to doubt on whether son’s appointment is interestyears. Many people went opening the borders would ing in a number of ways. unemployed and establish- be a good idea. Malaysia reFirst, Jackson would be ments went out of business mains a country that is also the first Supreme Court Jusbecause of the lack of people. heavily reliant on tourism tice since Thurgood Marshall The prediction of whether and is impacted by the ban with significant experience the country can bounce back on travelers. The economy as a criminal defense atis unknown, the sheer num- has been dealt with many torney. Jackson would also ber of unemployment rates is challenges from receiving no have served one of the shortastonishing. It was reported tourists. As of now, the deci- est lengths of time in the Apthat there was a 31% increase sion of lifting the travel ban peals Court of any Supreme in the homeless population is still in place.

Court Justice, at just under in 2021 than what it was in one year. Furthermore, some

By: Brian Henneberry ‘23 Contributor On February 24, 2022, Russian military forces began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It has now been three weeks since then and Russian forces have met stiffer resistance than expected.

Currently, the biggest city the Russians have captured has been the port city of Kherson. The Russians have been able to capture smaller targets such as airports and ports but have struggled to occupy Ukrainian cities. The smaller, though still fierce Ukrainian military has proved it is very capable of defending itself and inflict-

conservatives have characterized Jackson as far-left, citing her pro-labor, pro-immigration, pro-choice, and anti-racism stances, as well as her previous work defending a man detained for terrorism at Guatanamo Bay. Nonetheless, Jackson has wide support in the Democratic Party and considerable bipartisan support as well.

Jackson attended Harvard University and subsequently Harvard Law School, where she received her Juris Doctor. She then clerked under a number of prominent judges, including Justice Breyer, whom she is now presumed to replace. Jackson later worked as both a lawyer and a judge for the D.C. District Court.

In 2021, President Biden appointed her to the D.C. Court of Appeals, which is often viewed as a stepping stone into the Supreme Court.

Jackson served only a short tenure as an Appeals Court

judge, but we can extrapolate her legal philosophy from the rulings she made as a District Court judge. Jackson is generally considered to be a liberal judge, and she has made several rulings and written several opinions that ran counter to the actions of President Donald Trump. Despite some minority opinions alleging that Jackson is considerably far-left, the general consensus among experts is that she is no farther left than Justice Breyer, whom she is nominated to replace. However, Jackson is notably leftleaning in her rulings regarding the rights of labor unions to collectively bargain.

Shortly after Biden nominated her, her nomination was sent to the Senate for consideration by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Her nomination is currently pending, and her appointment is yet to be finalized.

Russia-Ukraine Recap ing casualties on the Russian military. The capital city Kyiv is still in the hands of the Ukrainian people. While the Russians have been only miles away from the edge of the city for about a week now, the Ukrainian military has put up a stiff defense.

As of right now, the Russian military is closing in on the port city of Odesa and Kyiv.

One of the biggest issues the Russians have faced is supply lines. Many Russian combat forces are far from the Russian-Ukrainian border and the Ukrainian paramilitary groups are attacking their supply lines. This has caused the Russians to face

shortages in food, gasoline, and ammunition.

There are other economic threats currently facing Russia. Sanctions have been placed on Russia by the US and NATO countries that have greatly impacted their economy and people.

These sanctions along with providing Ukraine with military assistance has only increased tensions between Russia and the West. Just yesterday, Russia bombed a Ukrainian military site just near the Polish border. This attack could have been a response to Poland considering sending military aircraft to Ukraine. Russia has also put

its nuclear weapons on high alert, which has only escalated the crisis. While the U.S has imposed economic sanctions against Russia, they have refrained from taking any direct military action in support of Ukraine that could escalate the conflict. The one part of this war people should not forget about is the Ukrainian people. Since the war has begun more than 2.5 million Ukrainians have fled to other European countries.

3,393 Ukrainian people have died so far. This war is turning into a major humanitarian crisis. The Russian military besieging major cities has left Ukrainian civilians without

electricity, water, and food.

As of now, the war is at a stalemate with neither side caving in. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made it very clear that he will not give in to the aggression shown by Russia.

With the Russians standing outside Kyiv, many wonder how much longer can the Ukrainian military hold out?

Will the U.S. take additional action? How long will the conflict last? Will Russia further expand this conflict into other European countries?

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By: Peter Mildrew ‘22 Editor Review: Rex Orange County - WHO CARES? Alex O’Connor, popularly known as Rex Orange County, has re-entered the eclectic pop scene for the first time in nearly three years, delivering a longawaited, heavily-anticipated LP by the name of WHO CARES? O’Connor is a British youngin; at only 23, he’s released 4 albums with varying results of critical success.

This certain musical roadmap upon which O’Connor has traversed has drawn great praise; for his nailing of key elements of bedroom pop in his earlier, more simplistic and heartfelt arrangements, like those of Bcos U

Mildrew’s Melodies, Vol. V Will Never B Free and Apricot Princess, the emerging artist became an industry staple, inspiring welcomed newcomers like Arlo Parks, Clairo, and Boy Pablo to pursue the softer, less flashy sides of pop music that seem to be contemporary keys to the fountain of streaming success.

However, like most artists, this roadmap led O’Connor astray. Alongside the end of a serious, long term relationship with his muse Thea (see “Sycamore Girl” on Apricot Princess for her cameo), O’Connor seemed to have caved to the same autotuned, gratingly earwormy production that sucked many talented, natural musicians into artistic complacency; on his

March Madness!

By: Liam Thomson ‘23 Contributor

After a long season that began back in November, March is finally upon us! With the regular season drawing to a close, the NCAA March Madness Tournament is all but a few days away.

But before the madness can begin and brackets can be filled, the conference tournament winners have to be named. Throughout this past week, the conference tournaments have commenced.

The winners of the conferences (32 total) earned their

way into the tournament with an automatic bid that is just as sweet as being crowned conference champions. The other 36 teams had to sweat it out on Selection Sunday waiting for their name to be called by the Selection Committee.

With all the bubble-team drama and matchups settled, this year’s bracket (as always!) sets up a lot of intriguing matchups. Namely, the Texas Longhorns (6) vs. the ACC Tournament champs Virginia Tech (11), and the Arkansas Razorbacks (4)

vs. the Vermont Catamounts (14). Texas has played extremely well in a tough Big XII Conference, which has two teams seeded 1, while Virginia Tech is coming off an amazing March, beating teams like Duke and North Carolina. Vermont steamrolled through their conference tournament and has one of the best field goal percentages in basketball (6th). Arkansas has been a solid defensive team all-year, but the game is also being played up in Buffalo, NY, much closer to Vermont than Arkansas.

Another saving grace of

this year’s tournament is that fans will finally be allowed back into the stands at full capacity. After everything over these past few years, the return to the tournament’s fanfilled and loud arenas will be an amazing sight and sound, especially for the winning team that will get to cut down the nets in New Orleans on April 4th. The Cinderella stories, busted brackets, and unbelievable basketball will remind us of why this tournament is so special. Let the madness begin!

2019 album Pony, Rex Orange County appeared to be a shadow of his past, genuine self. What left many fans with at least a drop of hope was the LP’s penultimate song: “Pluto Projector,” a tear-jerking ballad that employed climactic violin ensembles and featured some of O’Connor’s most fruitful, wistful writing yet. And with this song in mind, it is with great pleasure to hear that Rex Orange County has, yet again, returned to what makes Rex, Rex. WHO CARES? is a gladly received departure from his Pony days, and, at its sonic best, capitalizes on the nostalgic Rex sound with which so many are familiar. While certain cuts like “KEEP IT UP” do reminisce upon the

almost annoyingly positive and peppy licks and production styles that ran rampant on Pony, Rex maintains his ability to draw in loyal listeners with the sweet rolling melodies and basslines that give him his signature stylistic identity. By featuring Tyler, the Creator on his “OPEN A WINDOW,” Rex nods to a certain circularity that most Rex fans would come to appreciate (Tyler had featured Rex extensively on his critically acclaimed LP, Flower Boy, providing Rex avenues to mainstream success).

Lyrically, Rex Orange County continues to cater to the catchy crowd. Call it cliche, call it necessarily oversimplified; all I know is that O’Connor is clear in what he’s doing. More literal than

the abstract and imageryfilled Bcos, Rex’s lyrics on this album touch rather than pull on the heartstrings, but do effectively convey how maybe single Rex is happier and better off. WHO CARES? pushes the envelope in terms of how many times violins can be used in structural bridges and introductions, but honestly, their mellow production adds tasteful binding and spine to the project. Say what you will about overused motifs, but Rex Orange County doesn’t mind (and neither do I)!

Best Track: “OPEN A WINDOW (feat. Tyler, the Creator)” Worst Track: “WHO CARES?”

MLB Lockout

By: Ryan O’Keefe ‘22 Contributer

Baseball fans rejoice!

After months of uncertainty and the looming threat of a Spring without Major League Baseball, the Players Union and Owners have agreed on a new collective bargaining agreement and a number of rule changes. All of this, while only having the first four series of the season postponed, is great news considering the other alternatives and threats of cancellations.

In short, the lockout was a result of the disparity between what MLB owners wanted for the future and what the players thought was best. This entailed a fair share of the revenue that the teams generated for the players, of which a majority was previously given to the owners, and better pay for and less contract manipulation of minor league players.

For example, in years past, teams that were far out of the playoff race would intentionally not call up their star prospects to the MLB when they were clearly ready, because as soon as they play, their “service time clock” starts ticking. A team only

has the rights to a player for 6 years of service time, so if a team could hold back aplayer for a few games per year, they could keep their rights for 7 seasons. This new CBA agreement has not solved this issue completely, but has incentivized the early callups of prospects by awarding draft picks to teams who have prospects on opening day rosters and later receive

bases, no more extra-inning ghost runners, and a draft lottery for the top 6 picks in order to prevent “tanking.”

It’s heartening to see that the Owners and MLBPA were finally able to come to this agreement, as the MLB currently can’t afford to lose any more fan support than they do at the moment.

It’s clear that this season will be far different from

votes on major end-of-season awards.

Further, in an attempt to resolve some arguments over the payment of minor league players, veteran players’ minimum salaries have increased from $93,000 to $114,100 annually. In terms of rule changes, there is now a universal DH between the two leagues, an expanded postseason (12 teams), larger

the past, and even more apparent is the reason for the change: The MLB is desperately trying to market itself to a younger generation. It’s evident that they are trying to create more offense with the Universal DH and increase stealing with larger bases, and I’m excited to see what will happen as a result this season.

OP/ED: Citius, Altius, Fortius By: Brendan Rohde ‘24 Contributor This is the Olympic motto and when translated to English means: Faster, Stronger, Higher-Together.

Boy, those words sure ring hollow. I think it should be Cowardly, Greedy, and Isolated, because that fits the spirit of the Beijing 2022.

Right from the start these Olympics promised hypocrisy and hollow glory, whether from questions about security, privacy, or integrity with athletes. The questionable decision as to why the Olympics had once again returned so soon to China was also confusing after hosting it not fifteen years before and the public knowledge of their near infinite human rights violations.

The International Olympic Committee views the games as a way for all nations to compete and come together in a spirit of sportsmanship and competitiveness. To me it can not be overstated how hypocritical this belief is when this governing body decides to allow

a nation with possibly the worst human rights policies on the planet to host an international event that promotes friendship between nations.

Many nations recognized what the IOC was to blind to acknowledge and diplomatically boycotted. It has also been recently reported that right at the start of the games, Vladimir Putin and a contingent of Russian diplomats met with Chairman Xi Jinping and party leaders; why you might ask was this done? The reports confirmed that they met in order to get approval for the upcoming invasion of Ukraine and a promise to hold the start until the end of the games.

This little known piece of information should have been covered more and it puzzles me as to why it took so long for this to come out.

Then we get to the seemingly constant Olympic problem that is Russia. Due to the nature of having doping problems in the past Olympics, Russia was once again punished for doping problems, dating back to a state spon-

sored program for the Sochi Olympics. They were barred from competing with their flag and anthem and competed under the title of the Russian Olympic committee, a paltry and hollow punishment. But this was not the cli-

positive for a banned heart medication (trimetazidine) in a blood sample from before the Olympics. However, this may not be the worst side of this scandal to me. This role goes to either the decision of the Court of Arbitration

max of Russian created controversy around the games.

Rather, that honor goes to Kamila Valieva, a fifteenyear-old figure skater for the Russian Olympic committee.

Let it be known that I have nothing personally against the skater due to her being 15 and the doping likely due to the coaches and people in her life. Ms. Valieva led after the short program, with a commanding lead until it was discovered that she had tested

for sports to allow Valieva to compete in the free skate event while the investigation continues, which to me was a horrible decision that may have affected her instead of sending her home without further exacerbation of both sides. Or it could belong to her coach, Eteri Tutberidze, who after witnessing Valieva’s collapse and literal fall from grace during the free skate immediately questioned her saying “Why did

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you stop fighting?” This action caused me to feel very angry that a coach who is responsible for the training and care of athletes poorly treated an athlete that was clearly struggling with the situations that surrounded her. As I stated above I have no qualms with the skater, my issue is with her coach and the figure skating program. Over the last several Olympics, there have been many Russian female figure skaters who were Olympic gold medalists or World Champions, then a few years after their moment in the spotlight retired citing medical reasons. This pattern is deeply disturbing and should be investigated by the IOC; however, like with this issue and many other scandals throughout the years, the IOC has shown it is an entity that will bow to the whims of money over morals, this Olympics just being a recent example of this. I can only hope and pray that the next two olympics; Paris 2024 and Milan 2026 will be more fair for the athletes and will have higher moral standards.

Looking Back at the 2022 Beijing Olympics: Against a Backdrop of Global Tensions, US Athletes Made History on the World Stage By: Will Prisco ‘25 Contributor History and Controversy: The Chinese capital of Beijing became the first city in Olympic history to host both the Summer and Winter Olympics. The 2022 Winter Olympics highlighted many countries’ concern for the perceived human rights abuses against ethnic and religious minorities, specifical-

ly regarding the treatment of the Uyghur tribe, that occur in China. As a result, leaders worldwide called for the boycott of the games. However, President Biden announced that the United States athletes would compete in Beijing; although, he made a small gesture of preventing US diplomatic representatives from attending the Olympics, an action that illustrated the controversies surrounding

these games. Several other countries participated in this diplomatic boycott including Australia, Belgium, Canada, and Taiwan. Further, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the implementation of protocols to prevent the spread of the virus such as limiting attendance and requesting that various nations not participate.

consisted of a record 109 events from alpine skiing to figure skating and snowboarding. There were a number of events that made their debut in Beijing including including men’s and women’s big air freestyle, women’s monobob, mixed team competitions in freestyle skiing aerials, ski jumping, and snowboard cross, and the mixed relay in short track speed skating. These new additions were aimed at a greater movement to increase the participation and ensure the equality of women in the games as well as to attract younger audiences. However, women’s Nordic combined was not added to the Olympics and is the single event in the Winter games in which only men are allowed to participate.

Opening Ceremony: The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics officially began with a spectacular opening ceremony that demonstrated the rich history of Chinese culture. Amid the palpable tensions that surrounded these Olympics, IOC president Thomas Bach urged athletes to “show how the world would look like, if we all respect the same rules and each other” and pledged that “there [would] be no dis- Notable American Athletes: crimination for any reason Many athletes from the whatsoever.”

United States competing at the 2022 Beijing OlymThe Games: pics shattered glass ceilings The 2022 Winter Olympics and made Olympic history.

Nathan Chen, an American Olympic figure skater who participated in the winter Olympics stunned the world with his ability to perform quadruple jumps with ease, an action that earned him a gold medal in men’s figure skating. Nathan Chen is the first Asian American man to earn an Olympic medal in single skating. In addition, Chloe Kim, an American snowboarder, received her second gold medal in the women’s snowboard halfpipe at Beijing, becoming the first woman to win two gold medals in this event. Further, Erin Jackson broke barriers when she became the first Black American woman to win gold in women’s speed skating. Shaun White, a three time Olympic gold medalist for the United States, announced that 2022 was the last time he planned to compete in the Olympics. White ultimately came short of the podium, finishing fourth, in the men’s halfpipe finals.

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Looming Questions About the Commanders

By: Collin Smith '24 Contributor

when he led the eventual Super Bowl champion Eagles What to do with the New for the better part of a season.

QB in Town?

If he can avoid injuries that have plagued his career and The Commanders gave up a making poor decisions, then few early-to-middle round I do believe he can be a qual-

Dan Snyder.

picks to get Carson Wentz, but it was the salary cap hit that was the real cost - a $28.3M hit leaving only $7.2M in remaining cap space. Is Wentz a viable long-term QB option? That remains to be seen and depends on if he can return to his 2017-18 form,

even with mediocre quarterback play. Extending his contract should be a major focus. The other WR spots are where we start to see questions. Last year, free agent Curtis Samuel was brought in, who has a similar hybrid talent to the 49ers’ Deebo

ity NFL starter. The front office might only see Wentz as a bridge QB if they plan on taking a rookie like Malik Willis or Kenny Pickett. The franchise seems locked in on finding WR Terry McLaurin a franchise QB, but that fate seems unlikely under owner

Gonzaga Baseball By: Noah Potholm ‘22 Editor After having no season in 2020 and a modified one in 2021, the Gonzaga Baseball team looks poised to compete for a WCAC title in 2022. Led by captains Nicolas Morabito, Noah Potholm, and Bryson Moore, this year’s roster is loaded with

talent, having seven college commits and surely more to come. More importantly, the team’s energy, grit, and determination are unlike any other season. Thus far, the Eagles are 3-1, having taken down Gilman, Riverdale Baptist, and McLean. And despite the one loss against a wellcoached Highland squad, the team seems to be clicking.

The bats are hot, the pitchers are dominating, and the de-

fense has been locked-down.

Conference play begins this weekend with senior Henry Hultquist set to start against DeMatha on Friday, and Noah Potholm will have the ball against Good Counsel on Saturday.

The varsity team is also headed to Myrtle Beach, SC in April for a Spring Break Tournament, playing five games in six days. Due to Gonzaga getting a new head coach in 2019 and COVID hitting in 2020, this is the team’s first out-of-state tournament since 2018. The Mingo Bay Classic will not only provide excellent competition for the Eagles but will also allow the team to bond and strengthen their brotherhood as the playoffs will be just around the corner.

The WCAC is still a juggernaut of a conference as always, with St. Johns, Bishop O’Connell, and Bishop McNamara all having a surplus of talent. Nevertheless, Head Coach Chad Carroll and the rest of the team are solely focused on putting an end to the twenty-two-year drought and hoisting a trophy in midMay.

Questions to be answered at Wide Receiver?

Terry McLaurin is a top-tier player with great production

Samuel, who had incredible success this past year. Curtis, however, was unable to stay healthy, suiting up for just five games. If he can stay healthy, he can prove to be another major weapon for Wentz. It’s the third receiver spot that needs attention. Getting a solid free agent is out of the question as there is no cap room. Washington could look to Drake London or Chris Olave at Pick 11 in the upcoming NFL Draft.

I wouldn't be opposed to trading back into the first round or early second round to pick up a guy like John Metchie III. Getting another consistent weapon will also allow Terry to take the next step at wide receiver.

What to do in the Secondary and with the Linebacker corps?

The team is looking to part ways with safety Landon Collins and he may already

be gone when this goes to print. After returning from his Achilles injury, the team asked him to play linebacker and he refused. Kam Kurl has shown that he can be a solid starting safety and Washington will look to roll with Kurl and Bobby McCain as starting backfield generals.

At linebacker, there are multiple questions about depth.

Cole Holcomb has shown to be a playmaker, but the rest of the core is questionable.

Jon Bostic has shown flashes but might be the odd man out to make room for a more dynamic playmaker. Jamin Davis looks like a role player after a mediocre rookie year.

He has all the physical necessities but needs to put it together on the field. There are also questions with the defensive backs. Can William Jackson be a long-term starter or do they need to look to the draft and free agency again? Washington desperately needs depth and more dynamic playmaking in the secondary as a whole.

Green '22 Wins Art Award By: Aquilian Staff Gonzaga senior Will Green recently won First Place in the National Society of Arts and Letters Frank Wright Art Award for his five work portfolio. Congratulations Will!

Senior Reflections By: Mike Husk '22 Contributor

remember about Gonzaga when you go off to college?

As we near the end of the I will remember how Gonzaschool year, I got the oppor- ga made me feel. I don't retunity to ask some seniors member a particular school about their time at Gonzaga. day in which I genuinely felt Here’s what they had to say: out of place and saddened.

Every day at this school was Name: Christopher Bunn a new opportunity for me to better myself: sharpening my work ethic, strengthening my relationships, and ultimately discovering what brings me happiness. As I bridge onto my college years, I will carry this influence proudly.

Do you have any advice for the underclassmen?

Don't limit yourself to the kid you were in middle school. If you are an introvert, try to talk to someone new as often as possible. If you didn't like P.E., try out for a sport. If your sport ate time away from extracurricular activities, indulge yourself in Gonzaga's numerous clubs. High school is about Explain your Gonzaga expe- self-discovery. Our pool rience: might seem cold and overI wouldn't trade my experi- whelming at first; once you ence in the last four years jump in, though, the water's for anything. This school just fine. was a comfortable, welcoming environment where I felt Do you have anything else to no shame in being my true add? self every day. My teachers It's really hard to express were companions: genuine, how much I appreciate my loving people that I felt per- friends, family, coaches, and sonal connections with out- teachers through ink on paside of answering questions per. Seriously, thank you. and carrying discussions in the classroom onward. I Name: Michael Capuano have no doubt that Gonzaga has offered me exceptional personal growth, academic excellence, and spiritual enrichment.

What was your favorite moment or event during your time at Gonzaga?

I have harnessed many core memories at Gonzaga, but one in particular was my favorite. As a member of the Varsity swim team my sophomore year, our team went on to win four championships: National Catholics, WCAC's, WMPSSDL's, and Metros. This team of Gonzaga boys consisted of close friends I share a special bond with today. The electric joy I felt from this particular season did not come solely from finishing first. Winter of my sophomore year - swim season - was when I began to feel that Gonzaga was my second home.

side of your comfort zone.

What is one thing you will Get as involved as you can. remember about Gonzaga I got this advice and didn’t when you go off to college? follow it until junior year I will remember getting to and I regret that. know every one of my brothers.

Do you have anything else to add?

Do you have any advice for Get to know your teachers, the underclassmen? be friends with them while Cherish your time at Gon- also respecting their authorzaga. It goes by extremely ity. They’ll always be there quick. for you.

Do you have anything else to Name: Campbell McVie add?

I do not.

Name: Arturo Soriano

What was your favorite moment or event during your time at Gonzaga?

I loved Kairos. Everyone What is one thing you will should do it.

ter, and residents at Sibley Plaza, Golden Rule, and Plaza West. I'm very happy that I've made life-long friendships with so many people.

Do you have any advice for the underclassmen?

Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! Whether it be meeting someone new, trying a new activity, or going to an event, Gonzaga has a lot to offer you. Get involved, even when it's inconvenient! These are moments you'll cherish forever.

Do you have anything else to add?

DON'T STEP ON THE SEAL. Name: Ivan Marroquin

Explain your Gonzaga experience: Gonzaga has been memorable and has built me into the person I want to be. I have met many friends who I think will last me a lifetime.

Gonzaga has also served as the foundation on which my future will be built.

What was your favorite moment or event during your time at Gonzaga?

To this day I have to say freshman retreat. All the retreats have been memorable but freshman retreat was the first time I saw God in my friends and is one of the reasons I am religious today.

Explain your Gonzaga experience: Transformative. If freshman me saw me today he would be shocked.

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What is one thing you will remember about Gonzaga when you go off to college?

Definitely the Grad at Grad statements. I think I’ll keep them in mind throughout my entire life.

Do you have any advice for the underclassmen?

Please, don’t leave any regrets. Do any sport or extracurricular that interests you, don’t be afraid to reach out-

Explain your Gonzaga experience: Gonzaga was life changing for me. I met so many amazing people and had so many awesome experiences. I was challenged everywhere at Gonzaga: in the classroom, on the field, serving the community, and even leading retreats. Leaving Gonzaga will be tough, but I leave with new friends and a better understanding of who I am.

Explain your Gonzaga experience: 10/10, it taught me so much.

What was your favorite moment or event during your What was your favorite mo- time at Gonzaga? ment or event during your Leading the 2022 Freshman time at Gonzaga?

Retreat.

So far, my favorite experience at Gonzaga was going What is one thing you will on Kairos during the fall of remember about Gonzaga my junior year. This was the when you go off to college? first time I had seen any of I’ll remember the small conmy classmates in months! I versations I had with a few went in November of 2020, teachers and staff, conversaand although my retreat tions that helped me in anywas on campus, I still had way possible. an amazing experience. I'm looking forward to leading Do you have any advice for the March Kairos retreat at the underclassmen? the end of the month!

Get involved, it could be doing anything, and use your What is one thing you will resources, there are many at remember about Gonzaga Gonzaga. when you go off to college?

I'll remember all of the amaz- Do you have anything else to ing people I met over the last add?

4 years. I've been blessed to Have a one on one talk with meet so many great people, Mr. D, he’s a great man. including students, faculty, people at the McKenna Cen-

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Man Who Saved the World

By: Jackson Baldrate ‘23 Editor There is one man who single-handedly saved the world from mass destruction.

His name was Vasili Arkhipov, and his story begins in the midst of the Cold War. It was 1962, and tension between the United States and the Soviet Union was at its peak due to the Cuban Missile Crisis. The Soviet Union had set up nuclear missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles from the US coastline, and Soviet submarines had been deployed in the area. While roaming the area, the submarine that Arkhipov was on was spotted by the US Navy. American forces began dropping depth charges near the submarine to signal for them to surface.

However, on the inside of the submarine, it was a completely different story. The submarine was rocking and shaking with each explosion of the depth charges, and the crew was unaware that the Americans just wanted them to surface. They believed that they had stumbled upon the beginning of World War

III. The crew was afraid, and unbeknownst to the Americans, they were armed with a nuclear warhead with the power of the bomb used at Hiroshima.

The captain of the submarine, Valentin Savitsky, believed that they were under attack. He decided that his submarine would fire the nuclear missile, and he ordered that the missile be readied for launch. No approval was needed from the Soviet Union to fire the nuke. All Savitsky needed was approval from all three officers on board. Savitsky’s second-in-command quickly approved the order.

All they needed was the approval from the third officer, Vasili Arkhipov.

Arkhipov was a quiet, unproblematic officer, but he was sure that the explosions around the submarine were a result of non-lethal depth charges. While the ship was still getting rocked by explosions, he debated with the captain in the control room.

Arkhipov refused to sanction the launch of the missile, and he eventually convinced the captain to surface the boat

instead. After surfacing and meeting with the Americans, the submarine turned around and headed back to the Soviet Union.

Had Arkhipov deferred to his captain and approved the order, the submarine would have immediately launched the nuclear warhead at American forces. The Americans would have certainly retaliated, inevitably leading to World War III. Arkhipov’s calmness in a time of chaos saved the world from the catastrophic consequences of nuclear war.

Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the world is in a similar situation that it was 60 years ago. Vladimir Putin has threatened nuclear war as a response to perceived aggression from Western countries. In this time of chaos, there needs to be people that remain calm and are willing to promote peace whenever possible.

Even if Putin wants to promote nuclear war, it only takes one brave person like Vasili Arkhipov to save the world.

Designated Hitter By: Luke Gormsen ‘24 Editor Following the lockoutending agreement between the MLB and the MLBPA, there are a lot of changes in store. One significant alteration in the way the league will operate comes in the introduction of a permanent universal designated hitter.

The designated hitter was officially introduced in the American League in 1973 as an experiment. The National League did not adopt it at the time, and the positiondisparity has remained ever since. The major argument in favor of a universal DH was that pitchers didn’t practice hitting anyway, so having them bat and risk injury was pointless. Having a DH in the National League would also heighten interest for fans as it is much more exciting to see a real hitter bat than a pitcher. These arguments led to the adoption of the universal DH on March 10, 2022, in the Collective Bargaining Act that ended the dreaded lockout. National League players who specialize in hitting and are not good fielders

now have a niche that they didn’t have before. However, pitchers in the National League will have a tougher time limiting damage from opposing teams. National League pitcher’s Earned Run Average (ERA) per 9 innings has historically been lower than American League pitchers because of the DH, or lack thereof. National League pitchers could rely on the pitcher as an easy out to get them out of tough situations, but American League pitchers had to face nine capable hitters straight without the opportunity for an easy way out. Expect a sharp rise in the ERA of NL pitchers this season as they struggle to adjust to this rule change.

The introduction of a universal DH is a huge change that many have been anticipating for a long time, and it is great to see the AL and NL finally unified in agreement. The universal DH will usher in more hits and home runs than ever before and will make the game much more exciting for fans of high-scoring baseball games.

Gonzaga Basketball Wrap-Up By: Max Diaz ‘24 Contributor This year of Gonzaga basketball definitely had its ups and downs. The entire season consisted of close games, overtimes (sometimes even double overtimes), great shots, controversial referee calls, and much more. This year, the basketball team was led by senior captains Devin Dinkins (signed with George Mason), Jared Turner (signed with Northeastern), and Quinn Clark. All 3 had a great year with Dinkins earning 1st Team All-WCAC (also he led the team in points and assists), Turner earning 2nd Team (also he led the team in rebounds, steals, and blocks), and Clark earning Honorable Mention. In addition to them, other notable members of the team included seniors Eddie Paquette (also earned WCAC Honorable Mention) and Nick Evans, junior Thomas Batties, sophomores Justin Gilmore and Daniel “Dede” Holmes, and freshmen Nyk Lewis and Derek Dixon.

The team started out the year on fire, winning their

first 10 games of the season and being ranked inside the top ten in the nation for some time. Notable games from those 10 include Gonzaga winning the MAIT in Hagerstown, beating, at that time, ranked Whitney Young in Chicago, and winning the DC Classic at Gonzaga. In the final game of the DC Classic, Gonzaga won a close and tough game against, at the time, 9th ranked St. Frances Academy. Gonzaga secured the win when Thomas Batties was able to take a charge from St. Frances guard, Jonathan Lamothe, who made a layup that would have put St. Frances up by 1 in the closing seconds of the game, if he didn’t charge. Another notable event in the DC Classic was when head coach Stephen Turner, who has been the head coach of the Gonzaga varsity basketball team for 18 years, earned his 400th career win with a 9046 win over St. Johns Catholic Prep in the first round of the tournament. Gonzaga's first loss of the year was to Oak Hill Academy in the

Spalding Hoophall Classic in Springfield, Massachusetts (home of the basketball hall of fame). After that, Gonzaga went fully into WCAC play. WCAC games this year consisted of many very close games. In total, Gonzaga finished out WCAC regular season play with a record of 106. But, nearly all the losses came down to the wire with each game deficit (excluding the Paul VI loss) adding up to just 12 points in 5 losses (2.4 average). Nevertheless, Gonzaga’s record gave them a 4th seed going into the conference tournament, which had them playing the 5th seed, O’Connell, first. Gonzaga beat them smoothly, winning by a score of 66-52. But, sadly, Gonzaga lost to eventual WCAC champions, Paul VI, in the semi-finals of the playoffs. After the WCAC playoffs, Gonzaga went on to play in the DCSAA Playoffs as a 3rd seed. Gonzaga beat Archbishop Carroll in the quarterfinals, but they sadly lost a very close game to Wilson in the semi-finals. Even though both parts of their season

came to a disappointing end, Gonzaga was able to earn an invite to the very prestigious Alhambra Catholic Invitational in Cumberland. Maryland. Though they weren’t able to win anything at Alhambra, Gonzaga finished the season like they started united as a team. If there was one word that I would use to describe this season of basketball for Gonzaga, it would be “close.” Close could mean 2 different things this year, either the ridiculous amount of

close games, shots, and calls that Gonzaga has had this year or it could mean how close the bond was with the coaches, players, managers (and as one of the managers, I would know), and even the student section was this year.

Even though Gonzaga wasn’t able to win any championships this season, they still played how Gonzaga athletes should play, which is to play together with toughness, passion, skill, honor, and the will to win.

By: Billy Cannon '24 Contributer *These predictions were made on March 14, before NFL free agency officially began.

The NFL offseason ha s already been more than hectic. Tom Brady retired - and then decided he wasn’t tired anymore. The Broncos and Commanders shook up the entire league’s quarterback hierarchy with trades for Russell Wilson and Carson Wentz, respectively. The Chargers and Browns both added valuable assets for low prices. All this, and free agency hasn’t even started yet. Here are my predictions for where some of the top free agents around the league will end up.

Terron Armstead, OT, New Orleans - Armstead is arguably the most valuable free agent available, mainly be-

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NFL Free Agency Predictions cause of his positional value.

The Saints will most likely not be able to retain him, due to the fact that they have negative 42 million dollars in cap space. Expect the Colts, who recently acquired the most cap space in the league by freeing themselves from Carson Wentz’s salary, to contend, as well as the Jaguars and Dolphins.

Predicted Destination: Miami Dolphins Von Miller, DE, L.A. Rams - After being a crucial part of the Rams’ Super Bowl run, expect a short contract for the veteran edge rusher.

Miller has hinted on Instagram about a potential return to Denver, especially after his former team traded for Russell Wilson. Other suitors could include the crosstown Chargers and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Predicted Destination: Denver Broncos

Allen Robinson II, WR, Chicago - Widely thought to be a top-ten wide receiver in the league before this past season, Robinson was almost nonexistent in the Bears’ offense this past season. Because of this, a good team should be able to grab him for a good value. The Colts, Raiders, and Ravens could all be teams that go for Robinson.

Predicted Destination: Indianapolis Colts JC Jackson, CB, New England - The best defensive back on the market, Jackson has quickly become one of the best corners in the league since Stephon Gilmore left New England. A return to New England is definitely possible, but if he were to go elsewhere, look for the Chargers and Cowboys to make a push for him.

Predicted Destination: Los

Angeles Chargers

Carlton Davis, CB, Tampa Bay - Davis was set to be one of the top defensive backs on the market alongside Jackson and Stephon Gilmore. The Chargers, Jets, and Cardinals all were expected to make a run for him. However, after Tom Brady announced he will be unretiring, all signs are pointing towards Davis’s return to Tampa Bay. Predicted Destination: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Bobby Wagner, LB, Seattle - Bobby Wagner was a victim of Seattle’s demolition of their own franchise, as they let two of their team’s alltime greats go in a matter of days. Wagner has been one of the most elite linebackers in the league since his career began, and the Cowboys and Ravens have emerged as early favorites to snag him.

Predicted Destination: Dallas Cowboys Brandon Scherff, G, Washington - One of the centerChandler Jones, OLB, pieces of the offensive line Arizona - Jones has quietly in Washington ever since he become one of the best pass was drafted, the Commandrushers in the NFL - and his ers and Scherff are finally new contract will show that. moving on from each othSuitors will include the Buf- er. Teams in need of some falo Bills, Philadelphia Ea- O-Line help, like the Bengles, and Denver Broncos if gals, Jaguars, and Panthers, they miss out on Miller. should come calling at the five-time Pro Bowler’s door.

Predicted Destination: Buf- Predicted Destination: Cinfalo Bills cinnati Bengals

OP/ED: Extra Credit & Test Corrections By: Thomas Martino '24 Contributer It is puzzling to me why some teachers don’t offer any extra credit or test corrections for students who put a lot of time and effort into their classes. While some students have a poor grade because they just don’t care, a lot of students find themselves struggling to reach a certain grade, and they would be able to raise their grade with just a small boost.

Yet, teachers object to giving their students more points.

They are worried about the academic rigor of their classes when they should be prioritizing the success of their students.

If the goal of teaching is for students to understand

and retain information, it makes sense to offer test corrections. Test corrections allow for students to understand questions they got wrong and relearn the material. Not only does it help the student learn, but it helps the teacher gauge what sections were taught well and what sections could be taught differently. It also allows students a second try at the material.

An additional grade boost could inspire a student, and it rewards hard work. Rather than just failing, students have a chance to recover and work to actually improve, but with no corrections, the student does not ever learn from their mistakes or produce better results from that

assessment. It also improves the teachers' test and overall grade averages for their students. What's the harm in affording more students more points for extra work? It also helps the student know what they got wrong for their midterm/final exams. I feel like teachers often get too caught up in the academic rigor of their class or it being an honors class, but not offering test corrections is a loss for students who are actually trying to learn the material.

If there is no way up for a student, why would they bother putting in the work? If they know they can only get to an 88% by the end of the quarter, they should just take the 80% and focus on other classes. If the teachers give

the student the opportunity to hit the A or bring that 78% to an 80%, then the student will put in the work.. Students should not be punished for their mistakes or held back by their shortcomings.

They should be afforded the opportunity to work hard to better their situation and better themselves, and this will help teach them to overcome obstacles in their lives by sticking to it and putting in the work they need to thrive.

Now what about the students who want extra credit because they did not put in the work during the quarter?

Give them so much extra credit that they must really want to raise their grade that they would do that much work. This is a learning les-

son for the students who did not put in the work during the quarter, and now have to put in a large amount of work at the end to compensate. Extra credit should be individualized based on the students needs and what they struggle on.

This is a valuable teaching moment for teachers to show their students that they are teaching the student, not the subject, and they put the success of their students over their reputation as an academically challenging teacher. If anything, a teacher’s class is more rigorous the more work that is thrown at the students.

like F.C. Moscow will be devastated by this as they were in the midst of making their deepest run in the Europa League in over ten years.

With these bans many good players in Russia will want out. They are great players and would surely find homes in different leagues. FIFA heard these complaints and decided to open an emergency transfer window to al-

low these players to get out of Russia and find new clubs to play for.

With all this terrible war, FIFA handled this the best as possible and made as many parties win as possible. As for Chelsea, all they can do now is wait and hope they are granted money by the English government.

FIFA Ban By: Andrew Lavella '24 Contributer There is no better place to start with the ban than with Chelsea. Even though they aren't a Russian team they might have been hit the hardest with the sanctions. Roman Abramovich is a Russian figurehead and thus had all his assets seized.

With these seizures, Chelsea is no longer allowed to sign

new players, re-sign players out of contract, sell tickets, or sell any merchandise.

Most importantly they can’t spend any money that isn't already inside the club. With this, the clock is ticking.

They have fifteen days to get more money or they won't be able to fuel up buses or fly to Champions League games.

With all of this, Chelsea will likely lose a great CB in An-

tino Rudiger. He is a rock in their defense and losing him will be a big hit to their team.

They have until the end of the season to get money or else the team will be in serious trouble.

The next part of the ban is that all Russian teams can no longer play in any European leagues such as Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. Teams

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Way-Too-Early NFL Mock Draft

By: Jackson Brewer ‘24 Contributor With the NFL season coming to an end, it is time to look forward to the NFL draft. Although there is a ton of time until the draft, and teams' plans could certainly change with free agency, it is fun looking at how teams would draft if their team was today. In this mock draft, I will answer many important questions, such as who is the first edge rusher off the board, and where Jacksonville will go with the first pick.

Pick 1: Jacksonville Jaguars: Evan Neal, OL, Alabama This might come as a surprise to some, but to me, this seems like the most logical pick for a rebuilding franchise. Evan Neal is incredibly talented and experienced, and this seems like the perfect pick to protect Trevor Lawrence for the future. A reason that Trevor Lawrence wasn’t able to shine as much as he could in his first year in the league was because his offensive line was abysmal, and the 6'7 350 pound Ala-

bama prospect could provide Pick 4: New York Jets: Charles Cross, OL, Missisa boost to a poor unit. sippi State In my mock draft, I have Pick 2: Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, the Jets and Panthers both picking O-Linemen, the Michigan Although Detroit has question I had was who was many different holes, a picked first, Charles Cross pressing concern is the lack or Ikem Okwonu. I ended up of a pass rush, and Aidan deciding that Charles Cross Hutchinson would provide a would get picked first, mainlarge boost to this poor unit. ly because of the conference Aidan Hutchinson could eas- he played his college ball in. ily be the first pick, but it is The SEC is a much higher arguably cooler that he stays caliber conference than the in-state and works to help the ACC, meaning that I think Lions return to the playoffs. Charles Cross is more experienced with better pass rushPick 3: Houston Tex- ers. The decision between ans: Kayvon Thibodeaux, these two is close, and could always flip.

EDGE, Oregon Once upon a time, Kayvon Thibodeaux was the con- Pick 5: New York Giants: sensus number one pick in Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre the draft, but because of the Dame While the teams above rise of Aidan Hutchinson and the Jaguars' desperate need to the Giants are picking playprotect Trevor Lawrence, the ers because of fit, the Giants Oregon prospect has fallen. will take Kyle Hamilton beSimilarly to the Lions, the cause he is the most talented Texans have holes at almost player in the draft. His physievery position, but the raw cal skills are amazing, and talent of Kayvon Thibodeaux he has incredible ball skills. is almost impossible to pass The only thing threatening to hold him back is injuries, up at this pick. but he will be fully healthy

by training camp, ready to age roster. I expect them to completely rebuild, and Karwreak havoc on the NFL. laftis can be the first major Pick 6: Carolina Panthers: piece in this three to five year Ikem Okwonu, OL, NC rebuild.

State As I said above, the line Pick 9: Denver Broncos: between Okwonu and Cross Tyler Linderbaum, OL, is razor thin, and I ended up Iowa The Denver Broncos are with the Panthers landing a team looking to contend Okwonu, which is the more desirable landing spot for the now, and Tyler Linderbaum will be a major part in proNC State alum. tecting whoever is quarterPick 7: New York Giants: back for the Broncos next Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio year. The Broncos are a fantastic situation for whoever State Last season the Giants ends up there, and I think it had a lot of problems on of- will be Linderbaum who will fense, and a large majority come up to the plate. of those problems stemmed from the team not having a Pick 10: New York Jets: reliable number one wide re- Derek Stingley Jr., CB, ceiver. Garrett Wilson could LSU Derek Stingley Jr. has provide a number one option been the player who has from the get go, but maybe also look for the Giants to moved around the most on trade down and get a little the board, but I think the Jets take him at the end of the first more trade capital. round. The Jets are in desperPick 8: Atlanta Falcons: ate need of a cornerback, and George Karlaftis, EDGE, pairing Stingley with a veteran seems like a pretty foolPurdue The Falcons are a team in proof formula for success. limbo, as they have an aging quarterback around an aver-

College Football Season Wrap-Up By: Max Diaz ‘24 Contributor This College Football season had a lot of surprises, upsets, disappointments, and close games, so basically how football normally goes.

Champions: Georgia Bulldogs - Georgia won their 1st title since 1980 against last year's champions, Alabama.

Georgia had an amazing season going 11 and 1 with their only loss coming from Alabama in the SEC Championship game. But, they were able to get their revenge against them by beating them in the rematch in the National Championship game 33-18.

Georgia, this season, was definitely a defensive sided team instead of an offensive one. Their defense ranked 1st in points allowed (9.5 pts/g), 2nd in yards allowed (253.9 yds/g), and 5th in sacks (41).

Their defense was led by Nakobe Dean, Jordan Davis (who is one of the largest human beings that I have ever seen), and Lewis Cine. Even though I didn’t mention others, the whole defense was good. On offense, they were led by Stetson Bennett, who

went from walk-on to junior college to back-up to starter to back-up again to being a champion.

Runner-Up: Alabama Crimson Tide - Alabama had another great year, but came up short at the end. They may of lost to Georgia in the championship, but they should be the favorites for next year.

Next year, they will keep most of their top defense, the reigning Heisman winner (Bryce Young), and the best defensive players in college football right now (Will Anderson Jr.). So, we will be stuck with another year of Alabama dominance.

3rd Place: Michigan Wolverines - After many decent seasons under Jim Harbaugh, Michigan finally had a great year where they actually beat the teams necessary to go far (mainly Ohio State). But, in the semi-finals against Georgia, their defense led by potential 1st-overall pick Aiden Hutchinson, looked like boys playing against men. They couldn’t stop Georgia’s offense and they lost 34-11. But, even though they lost, things looked like they were on the

up and up for Michigan, but then there was a lot of speculation that Jim Harbaugh was going to kick them to the curb and go back to the NFL after one top year. He ultimately stayed, but obviously him considering leaving had an impact because it contributed to Michigan’s OC and last year’s Broyles Award winner, Josh Gattis to leave to Miami and say: “In life I would never advise anyone to be where they are not wanted.”

So, if Michigan wants to succeed and soon, then Harbaugh needs to be 100% committed.

4th Place: Cincinnati Bearcats - For the first time ever, the CFP committee finally let in a non-Power 5 team.

Led by Desmond Ridder and Ahmad Gardner, Cincinnati had an amazing season getting them into the CFP. But, when they faced Alabama, they let 2006 & 2009 Boise State, 2008 Utah (they were part of the Mountain West back then), 2010 TCU (Also part of MW back then), and 2017 UCF down by losing to Alabama 27-6. But, hopefully their misfortune doesn’t stop the CFP from ever letting a

Group of 5 team to compete in the CFP again.

How Teams Will Do Next Year Compared To This Year: USC - Better; because they got a new/better coach (Riley), great transfers and Caleb Williams.

Oklahoma - Worse; because they lost nearly their whole team (mainly to USC) and most of their recruits (also mainly to USC).

Miami - Better; because they got a new/better coach (Cristobal), great recruiting class and decent transfers, the new staff is stacked, and they have a potential Heisman candidate in Tyler Van Dyke.

Florida - Same; because Napier is not going to do much in his first year and the new recruits aren’t that amazing.

Texas - Better; because staff is settled in, great transfers, and a great recruiting class. They should have one of the most improved o-lines next year Texas A&M - Better; because of one reason: they had the top recruiting class in history, but still they won’t make the CFP.

Notre Dame - Slightly Worse; because they lost their longtime head coach (Kelly) and they are constantly overrated.

Virginia - Same; because it is Elliot’s first year and Armstrong is really all they have left.

Wake Forest - Better; because they keep most of their players and they are even more experienced than last year, so unless Clemson turns it around, they will win their division.

LSU - Better; because a lot of good recruits and great transfers, but Kelly needs to ditch the dancing and fake southern accent and be a coach.

My Opinion For MVP of Season: Will Anderson, Jr. - He was unstoppable this season, leading the nation in sacks while being both a LB and DE. Plus, he is only a sophomore, so he is coming back next year. If he has another season like this year, he will definitely be regarded as one of the best CFB defensive players of all-time.

Late Registration Review By: CJ Wagner '25 Contributer Jazz! Who doesn't drool at the sound of a crisp brass ensemble mixed with a clean string arrangement? It’s the perfect musical combo that fills the ear with smooth and high-quality noise. Ye incorporated this musical perfection during the making of his 2005 sophomore album, Late Registration. The second installment in his school-themed albums combines orchestra with hip-hop in a nearly perfect way. Hello Ye fans, I’m CJ Wagner, here to give you the debut issue of WOMBOR (Wonderful Omniscient Magical Breathtaking Outstanding Review). I’ll be reviewing Ye’s 2005 masterpiece, full of emotion, passion, variety, and of course, bars. Late Registration!

“Wake up Mr. West!”

An energetic DeRay Davis delivers this line multiple times on the opening skit, “Wake Up Mr. West,” which smoothly transitions into the opening song, “Heard Em’ Say.” Ye delivers a verse reminiscing over his childhood while also tackling racism and social issues over a smooth piano sample Adam Levine delivers a sweetsounding chorus in between each verse, delivering a steady and controlled intro track, setting the tone perfectly.

Rating: 8/10 Up next is “Touch The Sky,” featuring Lupe Fiasco.

With an unbelievably catchy chorus and a regal brass ensemble, "Touch The Sky" will keep you on your toes.

The clean verses and hardhitting drums compliment this song extremely well, not to mention Lupe Fiasco’s excellent verse. Ye discusses his newfound star status, wealth, and the complicated life of a celebrity. All the elements of this track blend together very well, delivering an elevated listening experience.

Rating: 8.5/10 Jamie Foxx starts up a song so recognizable that you probably are humming the melody right now. Sampling Ray Charles’ “I’ve Got A Woman,” next up is arguably Ye’s most popular song, “Gold Digger.” “SHE TAKE MY MONEY! WHEN I'M IN NEEEEEEEED!” Kanye starts off with an unbeliev-

ably catchy hook before transitioning into a clean verse filled with assonance galore. Do that one more time and the song comes to an end, ending the same way it started. Ye discusses a woman who doesn't love him for him, only for his material wealth. I guess she’s a material girl! The sample, the verses, the hook, everything about this song is crafted in a way that will have you putting it on replay six to seven times a day.

Rating: 8.5/10 “Drive Slow” rolls up to the plate. A simple song featuring Paul Wall and GLC, Kanye delivers some clean bars while trading verses with Paul Wall. Ye makes numerous car references, as the namesake, and recalls some surprisingly clear (but scandalous) childhood memories. While the sample is excellent, it feels somewhat lacking in anything special.

Just more of the same. However, in this case, the same is a very good thing.

Rating: 7/10 “My Way Home” comes up next. With a smooth sample and an even more smooth verse by Common, it definitely relies on a “shortbut-sweet” type of attitude.

Utilizing Common’s hard hitting verses, “My Way Home” is a perfect example of Late Registration’s style of music; smooth rap over a clean sample, backed up with some orchestral instrumentation.

Rating: 8/10 Up to bat next, “Crack Music.” Let me tell you, these drums are smooth. Ye utilizes a plethora of singers on the hook while also delivering a verse comparing the cocaine outbreak going on at the time to the hip-hop revolution also going on at the time. Carried by the drums, the song gives an above-average listening experience.

Those “la la la” lines in the hook get me every time. Fun fact about this song: the sample for the drums is the same sample used in Ye’s 2010 hit, POWER. Rating: 8/10 Possibly the most emotional track on the entire album, “Roses” shines in the spotlight in a way no other song on this record does. This song is powerful; it moves you in a way that no other song on this album does. Ye discussing

a near-death experience his Grandmother went through puts you to tears in the right mood, especially when you hear “instead of sending flowers, we the Roses.” That right there is depressing. Recruiting The World Famous Tony Williams on the hook, Ye’s cousin, Ye delivers a listening experience filled with anger, depression, sorrow, and guilt, elevating this track to one of an elite status.

Rating: 10/10 Next up, “Bring Me Down,” featuring Brandy.

A sort of “suck it!” to his haters, Kanye realizes the snakes and fake friend’s he’s had throughout the years, repeating that he knew that they would “bring him down.” While seeing Ye being able to experience success despite all the negativity and hate he receives from those who dislike him is great, it’s nothing too special. It’s good, yes, but there are far better songs on the record.

Rating: 7/10 “Addiction” - what seems to be Ye’s only weakness. However, he discusses it openly throughout the song, describing how he constantly falls short of God to “money, girls, and weed.”

The flow here is crazy, with each rhyme coming after another at supersonic speed.

The hook is also unbelievably catchy. Ye being honest and being able to admit his flaws while keeping the subject matter tame enough to relate to delivers a fantastic track that also features a fantastic flow.

Rating: 9/10 Next up we have “Diamonds From Sierra LeoneRemix” featuring Jay-Z. Holy cow. This song is incredible. Not only does the arrangement give me goosebumps and shocks me every time, but Ye’s absolutely incredible verse paired with Jay-Z’s unbelievably hype verse delivers a top thirty Ye song. I can’t go more into detail, it’s just too good.

Rating: 10/10 If you thought my review of that last song was ecstatic, wait till you read how I feel about “We Major.” I honestly don’t even know where to start in terms of reviewing this song, but everything comes together perfectly like a huge smorgasbord on a Thursday night. Everything was planned out and thought

to perfection-whether it be the ensemble, the lyrics, the bridge, or even the Nas feature that virtually ended the beef between Jay-Z and Nas. Easily a top three song off the album, “We Major” is a perfect representation of Kanye’s mental attitude and social status at the time.

Rating: 10/10 Up next comes Ye’s heartfelt letter of appreciation and love to his mother, “Hey Mama.” Ye had always been vocal about his relationship with his mother, Donda West, stating how much of an influence and source of support she was to him. Still, this song took it to a whole new level, with Ye even wanting to “scream so loud” for Mrs. West.

Ye’s heartfelt verses and loving rhymes make this song all the more depressing in the modern day and age, considering Mrs. West heartbreakingly passed away in 2008. Ye’s unbridled love for his mother paired with his current situation makes this song too hard to listen to without tears falling down from your eyes.

Rating: 9/10 Continuing a theme of rejoice, “Celebration” is up next in the track list. Starting off with a pixel-sample reminiscent of the “Super Mario Bros on the NES days,” it quickly moves into a song filled with Jon Brion’s magical touch, containing a huge ensemble of orchestra and vocal samples. With Ye delivering a verse so classically Ye (touching on themes of alcohol and partying), “Celebration” provides a listening experience that is fit for, you guessed it, a celebration.

Ye really knows what he’s doing when it comes to song titles, huh?

Rating: 9/10 “It’s too late, she’s gone” sings Otis Redding on the 19th track “Gone.” Featuring Consequence and Cam’ron, "Gone" is one of the most lyrically impressive Ye songs ever. Not only does every line hit hard, the flow each rapper demonstrates is rivaled only by “Addiction.”

Featuring a beautifully sampled hook and a strings-filled beat, “Gone” is easily one of the most underrated tracks

The Aquilian 11

on the album.

Rating: 9/10 S w a r p o g 9 jsa’pogvrg[0wkam’werg mwrh. That makes no sense.

Just like it makes no sense how good this next song is. “Diamonds From Sierra Leone-Orignal,” is not only the most instrumentally impressive tracks of all time, but also contains verses so good that they are rivaled only by those in the song’s remix. Containing a noticeably shorter intro than the

remix version, the OG outshines the remake. No surprise there. This beat is the 24-carat gold of rap music, which gives it its well deserved spot of best song on the album.

Rating: 10/10 Check the clocks, because ending the album is a song so 2005-Ye that you’ll be wearing a pink polo in a matter of seconds - “Late.”

Containing a beat reminiscent of 2004’s The College Dropout, Late ends the album in a perfect way, whether it be narratively or sonically. No, it doesn't have a perfect beat, or the hardesthitting lyrics, but it ends off the album in a way that not many other artists have been able to replicate.

Rating: 9/10 Ye’s sophomore album solidified his place as one of the greats back in 2005 - that title still carries on to this day. There are no misses on this album. Ye managed to deliver that same vibe of The College Dropout in terms of lyrics and narrative while also being able to completely change it up sonically, allowing it to be solidified as a classic in rap history.

Best Song: "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" Worst Song: "Drive Slow" Best Feature: Jay-Z on "Diamonds-Remix" or The World Famous Tony Williams on "We Major"

Movie Power Rankings By: John Ferrara '22 Editor-in-Chief On a frigid December afternoon this past year, during one of the many threeday weekends we have in the second quarter, I decided to go see a movie at an AMC theater near my house. My parents were gone at work, my friends were studying, and I was otherwise bored at home. TikTok and Netflix are

only interesting for so long. I hopped on to Fandango and got a single ticket to see Last Night in Soho, a movie I’d never heard of before that moment. But hey, it had a cool poster and a nice trailer so I

went for it. Besides, I wasn’t really going to see the movie as much as I was going just to go – to get out of the house, eat popcorn, sit in a recliner, etc. Next thing I know, I’m seeing movies every weekend. I forgot how good they are on the big screen and how relaxing it is to sit and watch a movie free of distractions and other people.

With this newfound experience, I decided I’d rank some of my favorite movies I’ve seen in-person over the last few months or so. No, I haven’t included every watch (yes, I’ve seen Spiderman: No Way Home). Most of these I think just got overlooked by audiences due to some poor marketing and a lack of general enthusiasm for seeing theater movies.

Hopefully, the movies that top my list can trickle in a few more bucks if any of you guys decide to go and rent them “On Demand” after reading my rankings!

Last Night in Soho – 4.5 Stars.

As I just mentioned, I have a special affinity for this film since it inaugurated my

return to theaters. Still, this movie has everything that I love: great colors and cinematography, a fresh plot, entrancing acting, and an unexpected twist. Without spoiling anything, this Edgar Wright product focuses on a naïve girl who goes to London for fashion school but quickly becomes drenched in a more sorrowing reality. Realizing that the bed in the room she rented out once belonged to an idol of hers from the mid-twentieth century, her dreams put her into the body of the other woman.

Her reality of what’s real and what’s fake begin to blur and this initially feel-good film takes a sharp turn towards thriller territory. One of my all-time favorites.

Licorice Pizza - 3.25 Stars Just like Last Night in Soho, this movie flopped at the box office on account of it not being some superhero remake or a hundred-million dollar project. Nonetheless, this 1970s throwback feels about as real and random as a movie can get…but in a good way. The plot focuses on a fifteen year old guy and a twenty-five year old girl who just spend their time running around together in Encino, California. Though it’s initially unclear what the overarching plot of the movie is, you start to realize how significant the foil is between the two characters’ personalities. It’s a perfectly executed

period piece that feels so authentic that it’s almost hard to watch at times. If you can handle a good bit of thinking and reflection, this one’s for you.

No Time to Die - 4 Stars.

I’m sneaking this one in here despite it coming out a while ago because I just didn’t hear enough buzz about it back in the fall/winter. Like, seriously? This is James Bond! And of any James Bond I’ve watched – and I’ve watched most of them – this one has by far the most implications on the franchise. I can hardly even write this review without spoiling such a huge film series. I’m sad that this was Daniel Craig’s last performance in the role, but he certainly finished his legendary run as the character with a bang. Cool settings, great characters, and just so many implications. This is a mustwatch just to keep up with such a massive pop culture saga.

Last Duel - 3.5 Stars.

Did I go and see this as a joke (shoutout AP Euro summer reading)? Absolutely.

Was this ridiculously good?

Absolutely. Now, it’s only receiving a 3.5-star rating from me because, as with the book, it starts pretty slow. After all, this beast is three hours long.

But if you bear with the first half-hour of slow paced storytelling, you’re in for one of the most epic medieval movies ever. The characters are so

good. So are the details. Oh, and so is the final fight scene.

Ridley Scott did a great job in finding a unique way to tell the tale, using three different characters’ perspectives to depict the same story. When it’s all said and done, you’re left wondering who, if anyone, really ended up a victor.

King Richard - 3.25 Stars By no means was the movie bad. I only have it last in these rankings because I wished it was even longer.

That’s how much I enjoyed it. This film shows the upbringing of Venus and Serena Williams through the lens of their father, but that means it naturally stops before they grow up and become individual, star tennis pros.

Focusing on what the movie does include, however, this one had me all over the place. It’s such an inspiring sports movie, but it's hardly about sports. Every moment away from the tennis court, which is a lot of the film, you have to endure the embarrassing and sometimes angering scenes of Richard Williams being mistreated by others or mistreating people himself. But that’s what a good movie does; it makes you not want to watch because you’ve become so attached to the characters. It’s certainly something I’d recommend if you want to be in a good mood by the end of it.

I just would buckle up for a turbulent ride.

2022 Album Anticipation By: Peter Mildrew '22 Editor Charli XCX: Crash Having seen Charli in concert at the Merriweather Post Pavilion, I can affirm that the post-pop, neo electronic musician is nowhere near slowing down from her past two, critically acclaimed albums. What’s best about Charli is perhaps her resilience. Despite the tragic death of longtime co-producer and best friend Sophie, Charli XCX has delivered music that is redefining pop and electronic alike.

that she is here to stay and dominate the R&B scene for years to come, overthrowing long-held empires from those like Beyoncé and Rihanna.

That means SZA needs to be taking risks that the urban music community has never heard before.

Rosalía: Motomami As Spanish-language music becomes increasingly mainstream in English-consuming channels, Rosalía is among the leading pack that seems to be making Latinx culture and music more accessible to the average nonhispanohablante. I’m certainSZA ly excited to see how she can CTRL was certainly a mix her culture with music crowd favorite for most mu- that is widely accepted today. sic digests. What SZA needs to do on this next album, Father John Misty: however, is cement the fact Chloë and the Next 20th

Century This is a must. Following up the less-than-loved God’s Favorite Customer, J Tillman needs to create an ecosystem on this album that is inescapable, incalculably gorgeous, and lyrically profound in a way that the Americana-indie community has rarely experienced.

Variant The 2021 Mood Valiant was a surprise hit in the neo-jazz and electric chaos communities, and this followup should be a continuation of such random beauty. Frontwoman Nai Palm is the voice of the band, but will the other members be able to hold their own in Kendrick Lamar the wake of works from colKendrick is widely re- lectives like BADBADNOTgarded as one of the best rap- GOOD? pers, lyricists, and creative minds of any generation.

Rina Sawayama What this means for this upHer wildly opulent coming, final album from the SAWAYAMA LP in 2020 took Compton-born genius, is that the neopop scene by storm, pressure to create is beyond especially since Rina was imaginable. Will Kendrick be able to successfully blend able to sustain such scrutiny? 2000s Christina Aguilera We shall see. era vibes with a sense of organized chaos through her Hiatus Kaiyote: Mood production. Her upcoming

album surely will follow suit.

MGMT The band most famous for their work in the late 2000s is back again for an LP that will surely show if the group can stand the test of time and vary their production from that of their early works. Will the “Kids” finally become adults? Who knows…

100 Gecs: 10000 Gecs Teasing their upcoming album with a single titled “mememe” is nothing short of the pure 100 Gecs ethos.

Enough said, I gecs?