The Hofstra
HEMPSTEAD, NY Volume 85 Issue 5
Chronicle
Tuesday
october 22, 2019
Keeping the Hofstra community informed since 1935
Sigma Alpha Mu placed on interim suspension following hazing allegations News
By Taylor Rose Clarke EDITOR - I N - C H I E F
The Hofstra University Delta Alpha chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu (SAM, also known as Sammy) was placed on interim suspension on Tuesday, Sept. 24, pending an investigation into the fraternity regarding allegations of hazing. These reports were brought to the attention of Public Safety by a student who was pledging but dropped out of the process. The student and two other people whom he asked not be identified provided the following account through a series of interviews with The Chronicle. The allegations detail a string of “private rush events” that included physical contact with strippers, being kept in a steaming bathroom for one hour and what he described as the “big night,” an event with alumni that resulted in two inches of the student’s hair being burned off. Hofstra University defines hazing in the 2019-2020 Guide to Pride as “any activity expected of someone joining a group, conducted for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with a group, or expected of a group member to maintain
full status in a group, where the activity is abusive, humiliating, degrading, excessive, or contrary to commonly accepted standards of decency, or risks emotional or physical harm.” “The University condemns hazing of any kind. It is a violation of the University’s code of conduct and of state law,” the University said in a statement to The Chronicle on Thursday, Sept. 26. “The Sigma Alpha Mu chapter at Hofstra has been placed on interim suspension
said hazing, but I brought it up a few times. [The two members and former friends] said, ‘Oh, there’s a couple tough moments but nothing too crazy.’” The student went to university-approved rush events, like a barbecue and bowling night. When asking a friend, who is a member of the organization, about the pledge process, the friend said, “It’s a lot of mental stuff, we won’t do anything physical.” The student detailed a series
we will beat the shit out of you because we have eyes everywhere on campus.’” The student said that on Friday, Sept. 13, there were contracted strippers present at the house. “I was told that there was physical contact with the strippers,” he said. Executive Director of SAM Nationals Andy Huston confirmed in a phone call with The Chronicle that Maurice “Mo” Cortes, an educational leadership consultant for SAM
“Every time they said secrecy, one of the brothers would go, ‘This is how we got away with what we do for so long. If we find out that you said anything, we will find you and we will beat the shit out of you because we have eyes everywhere on campus.’” pending the outcome of an internal investigation.” The student said he decided to join the organization after encouragement from two former friends who are both members of SAM. “I never explicitly
Photo courtesy of Sigma Alpha Mu Nationals. Established in 1987, Hofstra’s Delta Alpha chapter of Sigma Alpha Mu was placed on interim suspension on Tuesday, Sept. 24.
of “private rush events” that followed. All events took place at an off-campus house affiliated with the fraternity located on Greengrove Avenue in Uniondale. “You got invited to a private rush event if they liked you before the bid,” he said. He explained that the brothers would text the pledges very vague information when inviting them to the house. “They have a policy once you got into the fraternity, they taught you about C.U.P.S. [Cooperation, Unity, Pride, Secrecy],” he said. “The ‘S’ stands for secrecy. Every time they said secrecy, one of the brothers would go, ‘This is how we got away with what we do for so long. If we find out that you said anything, we will find you and
Nationals, was assigned to Hofstra’s chapter that weekend. “He had a chapter visitation that happened on September 12th to 14th,” Huston said. “It was on campus, but he did not witness any activities that violated fraternity policy.” “A chapter visit is when a staff member goes, travels around the country, provides general education to the officers and members. It happens throughout the school year, his just happened to be at the beginning of the school year ... he said during the time he didn’t observe anything that was a violation of university or fraternity policy,” Huston said. “It’s possible that something happened while he was on campus, but he wasn’t participating or observ-
ing any violations.” During one of the “private events” on Thursday, Sept. 19, the student explained that the brothers “put you in a bathroom for an hour, it got really steamy. It was turned to the max, it steamed up the room.” That same evening, the pledges were led downstairs in the house as part of initiation. “You would go downstairs, and they were all standing there in a dark room with only a candle lit and they had their hoods on. And that’s when you learned who your big was and when they gave you your [handbook].” The Chronicle obtained a copy of the national SAM candidate handbook. Page 45 of the Risk Management Policy under “Hazing” states, “No chapter, colony, student, or alumnus shall conduct nor condone hazing activities. Hazing activities are defined as: ‘Any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off fraternity premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Such activities may include but are not limited to the following: use of alcohol; paddling in any form; creation of excessive fatigue; physical and psychological shocks; quests; treasure hunts, scavenger hunts, road trips, or any other such activities carried on outside or inside of the confines of the chapter house; wearing of public apparel which is conspicuous and not normally in good taste; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with academic achievement; continued on A2
NEWS
A2•October 22 2019
203 Student Center hofstrachronicle@gmail.com
Editor-in-Chief Taylor Rose Clarke Managing Editor Jillian Leavey Business Manager Robert Kinnaird News Editor Melanie Haid Assistant News Editors Annemarie LePard Robert Traverso A&E Editors Victoria Bell Eleni Kothesakis A&E Assistant Editor Jacob Huller Sports Editors Christopher Detwiler Felipe Fontes Assistant Sports Editors David Lazar Anthony Roberts Features Editors Rachel Bowman Drashti Mehta Assistant Features Editors Betty Araya Audra Nemirow Op-Ed Editors James Factora Amanda Romeo Assistant Op-Ed Editors Sarah Emily Baum Visvajit Sriramrajan Copy Chiefs Mia Thompson Gab Varano Assistant Copy Chief Odessa Stork Elizabeth Turley Multimedia Editor Robert Kinnaird
Assistant Multimedia Editors
Adam Flash Talha Siddiqui
Social Media Manager Jack Brown The Chronicle is published every Tuesday during the academic year by the students of Hofstra University. The Chronicle is located in Room 203 Student Center, 200 Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y. 11549. Advertising and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (516) 463-6921. The Chronicle reserves the right to reject any submission, in accordance with our written policies. All advertising which may be considered fraudulent, misleading, libelous or offensive to the University community, The Chronicle or its advertisers may be refused. The products and opinions expressed within advertisement are not endorsed by The Chronicle or its staff.
The Chronicle
Personal account of ‘private rush events’ detail series of offenses
Continued from A1
fraternal law, ritual or policy; or the regulations and policies of the educational institution, or applicable state law.’” Finally, at what the student described as the “big night,” on Saturday, Sept. 21, two inches of his hair were burned off. “They said, ‘His hair is too long. It’s like a girl. Maybe we should just cut it off.’ They put a lighter close to the hair, illuminating it, [a member] got too close, burning it off,” the student said. “One of [the alumni] spat on me, multiple members who were in the back were flicking cigarette butts. Two cigarette butts hit me in the head, one hit me in the hand,” the student said. “Whenever there was a hit, they would cheer.” After this, the student ran out of the house and drove to a close friend’s house. Two of the people who were in that house that night, but asked not to be identified, gave the following account. “I’m at my friend’s house near campus and all of a sudden he comes banging on the door, he’s in shock, dripping in sweat and panicking,” one of the people in the house at the time wrote in a text message to The Chronicle. “So me and my friend told him to come in take some water, take a breather, and tell us what happened. He explains he was hazed at Sammy. They pulled and cut off his hair as well as burned it. They harassed him and screamed, degrading him as well. After he caught his breath, we urged him to go to PSafe and report what happened.” According to another person in the house, “He told us he had his hair pulled, burned and had cigarette butts thrown at him on top of the verbal abuse he had been experiencing,” he said in a text message to The Chronicle. “I hated seeing him like that ... seeing someone so distraught with no clue what to do next broke all of our hearts.” The student also alleged that an Instagram post published by a member of the organization on Thursday, Oct. 10, was “trying
to get a negative response” out of him. In the location section on Instagram, the member tagged a spot located in the United Kingdom, matching the student’s pledge name given by SAM. The caption reads: “They call me Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, cause the Mongoose always gets the
Hazing” section states, “Hazing is a violation of the Penal Law and other laws of the state of New York as well as the general regulations of the University. Accordingly, the University hereby reaffirms its policy that it will not condone hazing of any kind. To this end, any student,
“They said, ‘His hair is too long. It’s like a girl. Maybe we should just cut it off.’ They put a lighter close to the hair, illuminating it, [a member] got too close, burning it off.” snake #iykyk [if you know, you know].” The post has since been deleted. “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi” is the story of a mongoose, named Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, taken in by a family who just moved to a new house. Two snakes had been occupying the house and decided to kill the family to protect their own. The mongoose becomes aware of the snake’s plan, and when the snakes go to sleep, he decides to attack by biting the back of one snake’s neck. According to enotes.com, “The commotion summons the family’s father who brings a shotgun and blows Nag [the male snake] to pieces.” Division E, Article II of the SAM Bylaws and Constitution, “Anti-Hazing,” obtained by visiting GetInvolvedHU, states that “Hazing of candidates by the Candidate Educator or by fratres at large shall be forbidden.” “We here at Sigma Alpha Mu, place the utmost importance on the safety and comfortability of our guests, and actively try uphold, and improve, our reputation to reflect these values. Thank you for your time, The Brothers of Sigma Alpha Mu,” the Delta Alpha chapter said in a statement to The Chronicle on Thursday, Oct. 17. Under the University’s Office of Community Standards website, the “Rules and Regulations of Hofstra University Regarding
faculty member, staff member, visitor, licensee, or invitee who engages in hazing may be removed from the campus and, where appropriate, shall be sub-
ject to suspension, expulsion, or other disciplinary action.” “Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity’s International Headquarters is aware that the Delta Alpha Chapter at Hofstra has been placed on interim suspension following concern about recruitment and new member education that was reported to the institution,” Huston said in a statement to The Chronicle on Friday, Oct. 18. “The university administration denied our request to collaborate on the investigation and has not shared any details about the initial allegation. We will continue to investigate the chapter’s conduct.” The status of the Delta Alpha chapter of SAM is yet to be determined based on the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
Screenshot taken from Instagram: @sammy_hofstrau The fraternity used Instagram to advertise their university-approved rush calendar, as pictured above. Personal information for a member who oversaw recruitment has been redacted from the post.
The Chronicle
NEWS
October 22, 2019 A3
Looking forward to the 2020 election: “Incumbent presidents don’t lose”
By Annemarie LePard
the 2020 election? Himelfarb discussed ASSISTA N T N E W S E D I TO R whether President The Department of PoTrump might or might litical Science presented not win reelection. “The State of the Union: An “The argument is that, overview of the context of first of all, he’s got the the election: demographics power of incumbency, and policy issues,” a talk by and the fact of the Richard Himelfarb, professor matter is incumbent of political science, at Hofstra presidents don’t lose.” University, on Thursday, Oct. The next issue is the 17. Democratic nominee. The discussion, held in “Democrats are under the Guthart Cultural Center a lot of pressure to pick Robert Kinnaird / The Hofstra Chronicle Theater, addressed a few the best candidate to central questions, asked by One student approached the microphone to ask Himelfarb’s take on the upcoming beat Trump,” Gineo Himelfarb: “First, how are we presidential election. said. “It doesn’t have doing? Second, how are we to be the candidate that Himelfarb noted that this needy. feeling about this country? And best represents the party, it pessimism precedes Trump “At this point, we can’t even third, what does this all mean has to be the one that can beat and existed during the Clinton, get together exactly what the for the 2020 elections?” Trump.” George W. Bush and Obama ad- problems are,” Himelfarb said. “I look at those measures and Currently, a young person ministrations. “There are a lot of “We’re kind of talking past each I say, ‘Hey, you know, we’re gositting in office would not be people who think, at some level, other, and then we have this ing in the right direction,’” said feasible, Himelfarb said. the country’s broken.” huge division on priority.” Himelfarb. “So, why is everyStanley Weinstein, adjunct This mindset is “historically Then there are some problems body in such gloom and doom professor in the Zarb School not American” because Amerithat are not even being talked about everything?” about, argued Himelfarb. of Business at Hofstra, does “[Himelfarb’s] not want someone sitting in the These, he said, inpoint that the econoWhite House who is like him. clude “federal debt, the my is actually doing “This is 2020, I don’t want a declining percentage of really well resonated 75-year-old sitting in the White two-parent families and with me the most,” declining life expectancy House who still uses the record said Darian Nusser, player,” he said. “I want somein the United States.” a freshman political There is a “ginormous one who thinks young and wants science major, who to move things forward, who partisan divide” in how attended this lecture wants to try and bring this counpeople view President to hear the profestry together, which is virtually Trump, Himelfarb said, sor’s take on the an impossibility because it will cans are supposed to be “optiadding that Trump is no exstate of the country. “When never happen; but [who] at least mists and believe that tomorrow ception, as all presidents have Donald Trump won the election, thinks along those lines and has is better,” Himelfarb said. This experienced criticism. everyone around me was scared an international global posture.” idea of optimism, however, has What does this all mean for for the economy, and we aren’t been abandoned, doing as bad as we thought we now leaving the would be doing when Trump U.S. with the was elected. I wish a larger problem that “we number of the population knew disagree as to that.” [what the] priorities Sophomore journalism major [are],” especially Ryan Gineo chimed in, adding among Republicans that there are still many proband Democrats, he lems with the country, but that added. “we could be off a whole lot In 2019, the listworse.” Americans are in a “foul ing of Republicans’ mood,” Himelfarb said, because top priorities inthey are “pessimistic about the clude terrorism, the present and pessimistic about economy, social sethe future.” curity, immigration He said it is important to note and the military; that this did not all start with whereas Democrats President Trump. “I think there’s are prioritizing Robert Kinnaird / The Hofstra Chronicle a sense in the country now that healthcare, educaeverything was a certain way tion, the environProfessor Himelfarb addressed a packed audience of students, faculty and community and then Donald Trump changed ment and Medicare members in the Guthart Cultural Center Theater on Oct. 17. everything,” Himelfarb said. for the poor and the
“I don’t want a 75-year-old sitting in the White House who still uses the record player.”
Himelfarb argued that, popular to contrary belief, the state of the country “ain’t too bad,” because: Median income has been increasing, even under President Donald Trump. Wage growth has accelerated during the Trump presidency. The United States has the lowest unemployment rates since 1969. “We’re basically at what I think many economists consider full employment, 3.5%,” Himelfarb said. Poverty has declined. The crime rate is down from 25 years ago, but the public perceives the “country as unsafe.” College enrollment is increasing among low-income groups Teen birth rate has steadily declined. “We have fewer children having children,” Himelfarb said.
NEWS
A4•October 22 2019
The Chronicle
Early voting law aims to grant more access to Nassau County voters By Rob Traverso ASSISTA N T N E W S E D I TO R
Hofstra University hosted a panel comprised of lawyers and activists who work in election law reform to address the nature of New York state’s early voting law and the plan for its implementation on Wednesday, Oct. 16, in the Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center Theater. Historically, statewide New York government has been “dominated” by the Republican party, said Craig Burnett, associate professor of political science at Hofstra University and moderator of the panel. The 2018 midterms changed this, however: Democrats retained the governorship and gained a majority in the state Senate, taking total control of New York government for the first time in a decade. In January, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed an election law reform package passed by the state legislature that officially gave the green light for early voting in New York. Now, for the first time in history, registered voters in New York can cast their ballots early – from Saturday, Oct. 26, to Sunday, Nov. 3, a nine-day period before the Tuesday, Nov. 5, county-wide general election. In Nassau County, 15 polling sites will be open for early voting: Elmont, Floral Park, Garden City, Glen Head, Hemp-
stead, Hicksville, Lawrence, Massapequa, North Merrick, Plainview, Rockville Centre, Valley Stream, Wantagh, West Hempstead and Mineola. More information about the addresses for these polling places and their hours of availability can be found on the Nassau County Board of Elections’ website. The implementation of early voting in New York has been a goal for many in the AfricanAmerican community for quite a long time. “Early voting ... has been a go-to practice in the AfricanAmerican community since the time of Reconstruction” in order to counter “systematic efforts to marginalize the effect” of the African-American vote, said Kira Bryant of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Nassau Alumnae Chapter. A 2018 report on minority voting rights assessed by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights found that “cuts to early voting can cause long lines with a disparate impact on voters of color.” “The obstacles are just different now,” Bryant said. “You don’t have to wait for the horse and buggy to get from the farm to the polling place, but there are other challenges in day-today life that may make it very difficult for somebody to vote on that one Election Day, in that one polling place. And that’s
without any voter suppression efforts ... just the nature of life; it can be difficult.” Brittany Clark, a senior political science major, agreed with Bryant’s sentiment but expressed a common concern about early voting. “While implementing early voting in any state is a stride toward leveling the playing field for all voters,” she said, “I think the problem with reform like this ... is that it becomes political rather than just a basic convenience for all voters. If we say that early voting is going to predominantly engage more minority communities, we are neglecting to acknowledge the other groups it will benefit as well, and are making a conscious effort to shift the dialogue for political gains.” Bryant stressed that “the only way for the process to be truly fair is for everybody to be included and to vote.” This is why the State has adopted what is called a “vote center model,” said Jarret Berg, co-founder of VoteEarlyNY, the self-described “non-profit hub for early voting rights, information, education and news” in New York. Under a vote center model, those who choose to exercise their right to vote early do not have to do so at the polling place closest to them. Berg noted that 54 of New York’s 62 counties have moved
toward a vote center model so far. “The goal of this law, when it’s fully implemented, is that every eligible voter in a given county will be able to access and vote early at any site,” Berg said. “One of the biggest breakthroughs of this reform is that we are moving to a vote center model.” The panel shared the viewpoint that early voting and the overall election law reform package passed in January was long overdue. Burnett attributed this to the lack of incentive for the GOP to institute a policy that would have weakened its former stronghold on state government. “Most politicians are loath to change any system that has benefited them in the first place,” he said. Like Burnett, Berg noted that the New York election law remained frozen under Republican control and added that this might be a cause for concern going forward. “When you fail to modernize your election law for multiple generations, there is bound to be some growing pains,” he said. “I believe it is a great idea to make the system more accessible and convenient to the voters,” said senior political science major Mitchell Ulrich. “I do have reservations, however, about the implementation due to the added complications of
multiple days of polling.” “As someone who has ran polls before, adding the numbers up [is] hard enough with absentee ballots. But to have to account for votes over a period of a week with machines that aren’t, in my experience, very reliable, could cause a situation where there might be miscounts or lost ballots.” Berg stressed that this early voting measure is part of what is just the “first wave” of election law reform set to be implemented in the near future. He also was adamant that Nassau County is taking a step in the “right direction and has shown promise.” As part of the election law package passed in January, each county in New York is now required to make seven locations available for early voting during the run-up to Election Day. Fifteen will be open in Nassau County in the nine-day early voting period. Similarly, a minimum of 60 hours of early voting is required of each county by state election law. Nassau County is providing 70 hours. “I’m proud to say that Nassau is taking the lead ... [Nassau] has one of the best programs from an access standpoint in the state,” Berg said.
Film addresses indigenous struggle over Ecuadorian forest By Brandon Allen SPEC IAL TO T H E C H R O N I CL E
Mario A. Murillo, professor of radio, television and film and vice dean of the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, hosted a discussion on the current state of the protests in Ecuador regarding the forest and oil mining. Hundreds of people were injured in these protests, but the government has given way to the demands of the protestors to some extent. The territory and the people indigenous to the area are called the Sarayaku, based in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
The Sarayaku people have in a biological sense, but in a speakers used the metaphor of previously had to resist the spiritual sense as well; that all a child in a mother’s womb to activities of the government the life in the forest is interconrepresent the people and the and mining companies. In 1989, nected. forest. “Recognizing that a tree, they stopped one oil exploraThroughout the discussion, a plant, a bird and a frog are all tion. From 2002 to 2003, the interconnected, and Argentinian company CGC, all depend on each Compañía de General Comother, and can’t just bustibles (General Fuel Comlook at [the forpany) attempted to extract est] as a tool or a oil from the area. A physical resource to extract resistance lead predominantly [oil from],” Murillo by the indigenous women said. ensued. The EcuadorThe Sarayaku refer to the ian government forest as Kawsak Sacha, or believes that the Photo courtesy of Hofstra University the living forest. The belief forest must be The Kawsak Sacha forest should not be looked at among the Sarayaku is that developed to be as a resource, but as a ‘symbol of life,’ according to the forest is not just alive used by the country the film.
for resources and to create space for other projects. The argument of the Sarayaku is that the forest is already developed and needs no further development from the Western government. To protest these events, the Sarayaku built a canoe and sent it to the 21st Conference of the Parties, or COP 21, summit in Paris, France as a message. The summit was held as a global gathering to combat climate change. Eriberto Gualinga, a Sarayaku photographer, musician and filmmaker who focuses on the Continued on A5
The Chronicle
LI origins uncovered in a Google Earth presentation
By Alexander Wilenski SPEC IA L TO T H E C H R O N I CL E
J. Bret Bennington, professor of geology and chairperson in the Department of Geology, Environment and Sustainability at Hofstra University gave a Google Earth presentation titled “The Surprising Geological Origins of Paumanok” to a small audience in the Helene Fortunoff Theater at Monroe Lecture Center on Wednesday, Oct. 16. Paumanok is the Native American word for Long Island, meaning “the island that pays tribute.” Bennington joked that this shows how long there have been high taxes on Long Island. “We’re going to talk about Long Island, how we got here, where we come from,” Bennington said after introducing himself. Bennington said, adding that “in order to find the origins of Long Island, you have to start with Switzerland.” Through Google Earth, Bennington took the audience to the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps. He pointed out a bowlshaped valley that is carved into the mountainside, which was formed by a glacier. “Glaciers have the incredible ability to erode,” Bennington said. Bennington continued his Google Earth journey through the Adirondacks, highlighting the glacially-modified peaks before moving to Bear Mountain in the Hudson Highlands. As Bennington was showing the audience a picture of the bedrock, demonstrating the scratches and gouges caused by glaciers, the lights flickered for a moment and the projector had lost its signal. Bennington then brought the audience to the cliffs of Caumsett State Park on Long Island to show glacial till, which he explained is a result of the “ice [wasting] away.” along the cliffs of Caumsett State Park. “Long Island is made up of glacial till and glacial outwash,” he said. Bennington also showed boulders called “erratics” that are “typical of glacial regions.” As an example of the erratics on Long Island, Bennington mentioned the Shelter Rock boulder, which is located on the property of the Greentree Foundation. Bennington later showed
the audience a video about the formation of Long Island Sound. The video started by showing the Sound as a shallow basin 30,000 years ago. Bennington explained that around 21,000 years ago, “ice [came] down from the north,” leaving behind a “glacial moraine.” By 12,000 years ago, “Long Island [was] becoming an island.” Long Island has three glacial moraines: the Ronkonkoma Moraine, the Harbor Hill Moraine and the Roanoke Point Moraine. “One thing I’ve always found is people on Long Island are interested in Long Island,” Bennington said. Before the presentation, Bennington asked himself, “What’s the most effective way to teach people about the geography of Long Island?” He said he chose to use Google Earth because he wanted to “have a very dynamic presentation” that could be easily understood by his audience. Bennington’s presentation was part of the “Science Night Live” public lecture series, which he has been a featured speaker in before. “I’ve always been involved in helping run it,” Bennington said. He talked about the origins of the “Science Night Live” lecture series when he conducted talks through the Institute for the Development of Education in the Advanced Sciences, known as IDEAS. Bennington said, “we resurrected it as ‘Science Night Live’” after a quick hiatus. “We used to get 150 people ... we’re trying to rebuild the audience.” Nicholas DeSimone, a first-year engineering student, agrees with what Bennington said about Long Islanders being interested in Long Island. “Being from Long Island, I’ve always been very interested in the geography,” DeSimone said. As a lifeguard, he said he had noticed the geological features shown in the presentation, and that they were “something that was interesting” for him to see. “I’ve met with Dr. Bennington a couple times,” said junior sustainability major Tom Parisi. “It seems like a very interesting lecture.” Parisi was not required to view the presentation for his major, instead he chose to come out of personal interest.
NEWS
October 22, 2019 A5
Public Safety Briefs sdfjs;dlfjk;sldkfj;aldfjk On Oct. 15 at 6:40 p.m., a PS officer conducting a building check in Constitution Hall smelled marijuana coming from a room inside the building. The officer knocked on the door, and the resident opened it and allowed him inside. When questioned, the resident admitted to smoking marijuana in the room. No marijuana was recovered, and the resident received a referral to OCS. On Oct. 16 at 11:32 a.m., a Hofstra student stated that
Key NCPD – Nassau County Police Department OCS – Office of Community Standards PS – Public Safety
Compiled by Elizabeth Turley sometime between 10:32 a.m. and 11:32 a.m., her backpack containing her laptop was discovered missing from an office in Margiotta Hall. A search for the person or persons responsible was conducted, but proved negative. A search of the building was conducted, and the student’s empty backpack was found in the men’s restroom. NCPD was notified, responded to the scene and prepared a report. On Oct. 16 at 2 p.m., a Hofstra student reported to PS that when she returned to her vehicle in Parking Field 7 (behind the Graduate Residence Hall, Constitution Hall and Vander Poel Hall), she discovered damage to the front bumper on the passenger side. There were no witnesses. Police assistance was declined at this time.
On Oct. 16 at 2:25 p.m., a Hofstra faculty member reported to PS that at some time between 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., his briefcase containing his cell phone, wallet and credit cards was removed from his office in Hauser Hall. A search for the person or persons responsible was conducted, but proved negative. Police assistance was declined at this time. On Oct. 16 at 11:30 p.m., a Hofstra student reported to PS that for the past two weeks, she has been receiving harassing text messages from an unknown person. The student was able to identify the phone number from which the messages were sent. An investigation is being conducted into this matter. Police assistance was declined at this time.
Ecuadorian media muted by government Continued from A4 conflict with the government and the forest, created a film, “Kawsak Sacha: Canoe of Life,” that addressed the protests and placed an emphasis on the canoe as a symbol of life and the people of the forest. “The goal is to make ourselves visible as indigenous peoples who are active, alive and have a forest that has all this knowledge to share with the world,” Gualinga said. “Modern states send messages digitally, but these have no feeling and no emotion behind them. The canoe carries within [it] the intelligence of the forest and all the life in it,” said Franco Viteri, former president of the organization for the Sarayaku community. “The canoe is a language, it speaks with the mountains and the trees and the
rivers.” It is harder to implant the policies of other Western or developed nations, therefore Ecuador has developed its own political, geographical and historical policies. The media in Ecuador has been corrupted by the government, making it harder to speak about the issues. The digital media of the indigenous people is untouched by the government, but major conglomerates hold the media and the people do not feel safe. “We’re not taught enough about the struggles and beliefs of indigenous people in our curriculum,” said Benjamin Sinan Welch, junior public policy major. “I think it was good to bring people on campus with different perspectives because this campus can be sort of an echo chamber,” said Caitlin Kopf,
“... the forest is not just alive in a biological sense, but in a spiritual sense as well ...” junior history major. “It was definitely kind of shocking to hear about,” said sophomore public relations major Samantha Russo. “It makes you think about how we really neglect the planet sometimes.”
The Chronicle features Annetta Centrella-Vitale: Grounded in the environment
A6 • October 22, 2019 By Damali Ramirez
SPEC IA L TO T H E C H R O N I CL E
Welcoming students on a cold rainy day with her fresh homemade peach jam and kimchi, Professor Annetta Centrella-Vitale is a warming sight. The large group of students devoured the jam and cookies as they waited for Mary Callanan (also known as Farmer Mary), Beth Ricardi and Professor Centrella-Vitale to start the tour around East Meadow Farm. As a food studies and sustainability professor, Centrella-Vitale plans field trips to expose students to firsthand experiences related to her lessons. Around the farm, students saw demonstrations of different stages of the composting process, award-winning rose and dahlia gardens and vegetable gardens. Throughout the tour, Callanan and Ricardi explained the importance of pollination, maintaining healthy soil and community activism. “My biggest goal for my students is just awareness. I am very passionate about teaching my class and I honestly really love my students. I see the hope in their eyes and that the future is important to protect and preserve for them,” Centrella-Vitale
By Visvajit Sriramrajan ASSISTA N T O P - E D E D I TO R
Culture plays two roles: it connects us, while also showcasing the vibrant variety of thoughts and beliefs different people hold. Gillian Atkinson, the director of Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion (IEI), is invested in promoting such diversity among the Hofstra community. Atkinson, known as Ms. Gill to many, worked in the Center for University Advising for more than eight years. Three years ago, she joined IEI and has made an undeniable impact in the short time since. She often cites the joy of being able to see students grow over the semesters as a beautiful aspect of her position. IEI also organizes countless events throughout the year. From workshops and panel
said. In her classes, she informs students about sustainability-related events occurring at or outside of Hofstra. She welcomes students to talk about issues relating to sustainability and share their ideas on how to make the world a better place. Centrella-Vitale received her undergraduate degree in nursing and psychology from Molloy College. She worked as a pediatric nurse, mainly in the pediatric emergency room, but also in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units. In 1998, she received her graduate degree in marine environmental science and oceanography with a focus on physical oceanography and ocean optics from Stony Brook University. The drastic shift in careers occurred when she saw what was happening around her. “That really had to do with my passion for the environment and what I saw happening in our environment. My concern for what was going on and [what to] do for my children. I decided I really need to do something about that,” Centrella-Vitale said. Centrella-Vitale is still a part-time nurse and director of patient services for a home care agency. However, getting her
first oceanography/marine science job out of graduate school as well as getting paid while doing what she really loves made her happy. In the span of her career, she has worked to help place environmental parameters in the oceans to support warfighters by retaining information about the marine environment before their operations. Centrella-Vitale has also worked on dredging the New York Harbor to minimalize its impacts on the channels and economy. Her sustainability courses call attention to the major influence the economy and politics have on the environment. During her free time, she works with her local community to give its members access to fresh produce and food. She and her husband are beekeepers and focus on growing and processing their own food. With her family, Centrella-Vitale reinforces the importance of being connected to their food and knowing where it comes from. She said, “I am afraid that many people today are disconnected to their food, how it is grown, where it comes from, how far it has traveled, how many people have handled it before it even reached our grocery
shelves, how long ago it was harvested, how was it processed and in some cases what even is it.” Centrella-Vitale advocates for educating people on where their food comes from in order to create sustainable food systems. Recently, she has collaborated on a project called “Building Community through Sustainable Living.” The project is in partnership with Town of Hempstead Conservation and Waterways, Town of Hempstead Camp ANCHOR, Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District, Nassau BOCES Rosemary Kennedy School, Cornell Cooperative Extension
Nassau, L.I. Greenmarket and Hofstra University. It aims to demonstrate how to build neighborhoods with sustainable, local food systems that support a vibrant and resilient suburban community. As for on-campus sustainable projects, she believes Hofstra does a good job of creating various green-friendly projects, some of which students may not know about. “I think what we could do better is give [students] opportunities to explore different things on campus like the student garden,” she said. “Give them the tools to do the programs they would like to do.”
Photo Courtesy of Annetta Centrella-Vitale Annetta Centrella-Vitale is an instructor in the department of geology, environment and sustainability studies.
Gill Atkinson: IEI’s on diversity
discussions to shows and trips, underrepresented backgrounds.” “What I like the most about IEI plays a vital role in encourWith the right combination the peer mentorship program is aging unity and diversity at the of mentorship and resources, that it really is a volunteer posiUniversity. Under Atkinson’s Atkinson believes students can tion. Students go through days leadership, the Peer Alliance develop a sense of confidence of training and fill out lengthy Program allows passionate and community. She is appreapplications, all of their own students to advocate volition, just to make for other students sure students feel with marginalized comfortable. I don’t identities. think that drive gets “There are six enough recognition. tracks: the Transfer I think it’s phenomtrack, Commutenal that they’re er track, Global willing to step out of track, Access track, their comfort zone to Diversity track and do that.” PRISM track,” she Atkinson prides explained. “Each herself on her role of these tracks has in championing a distinct purpose. togetherness on Visvajit Sriramrajan / The Hofstra Chronicle campus and she has The main underlyAtkinson stresses the importance of helping ing score is that all a lot in mind for the ‘underrepresented’ students to feel at home on campus. of this is done to future of diversity at help students feel at Hofstra. home, because college can be ciative of the peer mentors who “After having a peer mena daunting place, especially for strive to support their fellow torship program, the next students of color and those from students. level could be a peer education
program. Students teaching one another about how to be an ally. We’ve assigned two diversity peer educators this semester for the first time. They’re tasked with educating our communities about what it means to be a part of these identities. They facilitate affinity groups and safe spaces,” she explained. For the program to truly progress, Atkinson highlights the importance of involvement. “We didn’t get a great turnout for mentees for the Diversity track, but applications are ongoing,” she noted. As students acquaint themselves with Hofstra, Atkinson urges those who feel they would benefit from a mentor to apply. Atkinson is confident that current Hofstra students are the key to creating a truly inclusive campus community.
features
The Chronicle
October 22, 2019 •A7
Humans of Hofstra By Betty Araya & Leah DeHaemer
A S S I S TA N T F E AT URE S E DI TOR / S P E CI AL TO TH E CH R O N ICLE
Cecilia Gray
“
I’m contemplating my whole life this semester. Originally, I wanted to go into developmental editing for young adult fiction. So kind of, like, improving the content before it is published. Now I’m not so sure. I think I may be a literary agent, but we’ll see. I used to hate reading when I was growing up, but when I was about 8 I read ‘Beezus and Ramona,’ because they were making a movie [based on the book] with Selena Gomez in it, and I actually fell in love with the book and being able to fall into a story. That kind of, like, spurred my reading throughout elementary, middle and high school, as well as [my] college years. And I knew that whatever I did, I wanted to work with books, and make books that could impact people the way they impacted me growing up. I went into tutoring because I’ve always been interested in editorial work, [but] through preparing for the job and actually getting the job, I [realized] it’s not about editing at all. You’re actually working with the student, the author, to help them improve their work, which has definitely been a learning experience for me, especially considering the field I want to go into, knowing that you can’t always edit by rewriting. It’s more of a collaborative work. I hate writing. It frustrates me so much because I have these ideas and then I want to research and make sure that they are absolutely perfect, so I fine-tune, like, everything in one paragraph, and then I’ve spent, like, five hours doing that, and I’ve done nothing! So it’s more of a frustrating process because I want to do so much that I can’t just write and edit later. Reading for me is kind of like an escape. You’re stepping into this world that has been created and escaping from reality, I suppose. And you really get to immerse yourself in that, but you’re also creating it as you read because you’re interpreting it the way you read it. Five people could read the same book and they’re all going to get something different out of it. And with writing, I feel like there’s a lot of pressure, at least for me, to create something as great as the things that I’ve read. And I don’t know, you have this idea in your head, but it’s so much pressure to put it on paper and make sure other people interpret it the way that you interpret it, because you don’t want your words to get skewed.
Photo Courtesy of Betty Araya
”
“
ُ ْم، ]رتنه يمسأ. Those are some basic Arab ْ ك َ ّ يَلَع ُماَل As-salāmu ‘alaykum, aismi Hunter [سلا phrases that I brought with me from Abu Dhabi. I used to live in Abu Dhabi for the last six years before moving to Hofstra as a freshman this year. Fortunately, I have made a lot of great friends, and it has really helped with the culture shock and the change in atmosphere. However, [there are] some things that, no matter how many friends or how many people I meet, I won’t be used to. For example, how cold it gets already. And the cheese. The cheese in America is horrible! Some of the hardest pieces of culture shock that I’ve experienced here is the lack of touch. All my friends back home in the [United Arab Emirates] (UAE), we would hug, or we do the threekisses-style greeting, and in America everyone’s giving head nods and dabbing each other up, not a lot of physical touch, which has been weird. I’ve also noticed a big difference in the culture of who you say hello to, and when you interact with people. In the UAE, you only say hello if you’re intending to talk to them for the next four hours or so. In the U.S., it’s like you walk by someone, anyone you don’t even have to know them, it’s like, ‘Hello! Hello. Hello, hello’. Lastly about culture shock and things I miss from home, I’m still not used to how you can walk around everywhere. I’m so used to back home in Abu Dhabi, where you take a cab, you take a car or you just go inside from one house to another, which is very different and part of why I’m always so cold now because I’m walking outside. Some big positives that Hofstra has that I definitely don’t miss from being at home is the fact that I have American Netflix now, I have American Spotify. I miss some songs from home – if anyone wants to listen to one, 3 Daqat, great song. Another positive that Hofstra has provided is obviously the education and professors. It’s one of the only colleges that I’ve ever visited where I felt like I was at home and I was cared for. My professors already know my name for attendance, I don’t have to tell them, ‘Oh, I’m Hunter Pelecky,’ they know me. And I also just really enjoy my friends I’ve made at Hofstra, and I’m truly appreciative to all of them and I want to take this time to thank them all for being so kind and supportive. Thank you.
”
Gab Varano / The Hofstra Chronicle
Hunter Pelecky Photo Courtesy of Leah DeHaemer
A8 • October 22, 2019
features
M a n o n t h e U n i s pa n
Do you plan to participate in Day in the Pride? B y Amanda Scho rr
The Chronicle
Overheard @ Hofstra In LHSC:
S P E C I A L TO THE C HR ONIC L E
“Don’t judge my hairless legs, it’s not my fault that I was born like this.”
Photo Courtesy of Amanda Schorr
In the Netherlands Core: “I could be like, a wholesome prostitute, you know?” In the Student Center:
“Yes, I will be participating in Day in the Pride because I think it’s a good opportunity to let others know what’s going on on campus. It can help promote certain on-campus activities, hangout spots or study spots that other Hofstra students may not have known about. Also, for my non-Hofstra friends, it shows them what a typical day is like for me and demonstrates what Hofstra is all about.” – Melanie Heeralal, sophomore
“We walked, like, seven blocks, that’s, like, the most I’ve walked in my life.” In Breslin Hall: “There was a creepy guy sitting in a car outside but I was hoping he would snatch me so I wouldn’t have to go to class tomorrow.” Photo Courtesy of Victoria Gonzalez
In Monroe Hall: “I was so drunk Saturday I donated money to Wikipedia.” In Bits ‘n’ Bytes: “Do you ever just wake up and you’re like, ‘Damn, I have a pulse.’”
“No, I will not be participating in Day in the Pride because my social media accounts are private for the most part, so very few people would have access to my post anyway.” – Victoria Gonzalez, senior Photo Courtesy of Andrew Cardell
On Calkins Quad: “I took so much Xanax over the weekend and it didn’t wear off until I was in the middle of my test.” In Vander Poel: “Your face, it’s missing glasses.” In Berliner Hall: “Why don’t we have off for Columbus Day?
“Yes, I plan to participate in Day in the Pride because I really like Hofstra and I feel like I have a unique experience here that is important for people to see.” – Andrew Cardell, junior
“Because he was a piece of shit, Mark.” Robert Kinnaird / The Hofstra Chronicle
features
The Chronicle
October 22, 2019 •A9
The Vine Wine Bar: Hearts first, spreadsheets second By Jill Leavey M ANAG I N G E D I TO R
For many students, the impending uncertainties of post-undergraduate life are a very real and very stressful reality that consumes their thoughts and conversations. Will I make enough money to pay off my student loans? How long will I stay at my first job? What will my biology degree do for me? Rest assured, these concerns are legitimate and students have been grappling with them for decades. Two Hofstra alumni, Lynn Mione and Steven “Doc” Lanciotti ’87, are familiar with these same uncertainties and are now the proud owners of The Vine Wine Bar located in Merrick, New York. With no experience in the service industry, the two childhood friends trusted their guts and each other and began their venture into the vast world of wine. Mione describes her roles as being a human resources, marketing and creative director; whereas Lanciotti handles the finances and operations that
keep the bar running smoothly. Mione, who attended Hofstra in 1992 for two semesters, took a “leap of faith” in 2009 when she decided to pursue her dream and open a wine bar close to her hometown. She had previously served in upper-level management positions for various fashion retailers over the course of two decades, with her most recent stint being at Levi Strauss. Dissatisfied with the corporate world, Mione contacted Lanciotti and proposed that they channel their entrepreneurial tendencies and become their own bosses. “I had a big career. Basically I woke up one day and said, ‘I don’t want to do this anymore,’” she said. “I think it might have been perceived as a midlife crisis,” Mione recalled, reminiscing on when she first told people that she quit a “cushy” career that provided her with a stable, six-figure salary. Lanciotti didn’t have as much to risk but that did not affect his commitment. “I was always fully employed,” he said in con-
trast to Mione whose sole focus is on The Vine Wine Bar. Over the course of his 20 years of experience in sales and customer service, he has been able to hone his entrepreneurial skills. But despite his position as “CFO,” he can still be found cleaning in the kitchen or bussing tables. “You’re here every day, whether it be to wash a dish, or paying the bills,” he said about the humbling experiences being a small business owner. It’s your responsibility. It’s not like, ‘Oh, the next shift will do it.’ There’s no passing the buck.” Well, why wine? “I was set on wine because there is this perception that wine is very pretentious,” Mione explained. “I wanted to bring a very approachable way to experience wine. I wanted it to be casual, but upscale. There’s a way to have a very nice environment and not be stuck up about what you’re drinking.” The Vine Wine Academy offers classes for aspiring sommeliers – or those just looking to dabble in reds, whites and rosés. The nine-person staff can help
guide any wine novice through seemingly overwhelming terms like “undertones,” “tannins” and “oaky” in an approachable manner. In addition, the bar boasts a robust selection of spirits and small plates for the non-winedrinking customers. There was a slight learning curve when they first opened. “People are very surprised that we don’t have a huge French selection on our wine list. We cater to the customers’ palettes.” They quickly learned how vital it is to stay up to date with industry trends. As a result, The Vine Wine is able to accomodate customers who request gluten-free or organic options. At The Vine Wine Bar, it’s personal. “Although we are business-minded people, the other part of it is community and family. It is a personal venture, not just a business venture,” Mione said. At any given moment, they estimate that they know at least a third of their customers on a first-name basis. They stressed that their customers are the types of people they would
invite over for a barbecue, or celebrate a holiday with. “We created something that is almost an extension of our living rooms,” Lanciotti said. They are almost quite literally in their living rooms, as their hometown of North Bellmore is just a stone’s throw away from the spot. This mentality, combined with their humility and commitment to the community, is perhaps the key to their success. “I think the approach of using our heart first and spreadsheet second has done well for us,” Mione said. She stressed that new graduates in particular shouldn’t be deterred by the type of degree they earned, so long as they have a passion for business. “If you spent four years in school, getting a degree that you don’t want to pursue [after graduation], there are a lot of things that you have experienced that you could apply to different business. It’s not always apples to apples.”
@GabGrabsGrub: Butternut Squash Soup B y Gab Varano
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 420 degrees F. 2. Wash butternut squash and cut in half. Remove seeds and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until tender and soft. At the same time, wash baking potatoes, leave whole and bake until fully cooked through. 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3. Once squash is fully cooked, scoop the contents and set aside to cool slightly. 3 large cloves garlic, crushed 4. Once potatoes are soft, remove from oven and allow to cool. 2 large carrots, peeled and 5. While the squash is baking, heat the butter and oil in a large soup/stock chopped pot. 2 large baking potatoes 6. Add chopped onion and garlic to pot, sauté on low heat for 3-5 minutes. 2 medium green zucchinis, 7. Add chopped carrots, stirring frequently. Let the carrots and onion mixture chopped simmer on low for 5-7 minutes. 2 apples, any variety except 8. Chop zucchini and add to the mix in the pot. Cook for 3-5 minutes. Granny Smith 9. Peel the apples and chop finely, then add to the pot. Gab Varano / The Hofstra Chronicle 2 quarts vegetable broth or stock 10. Pour 1 quart of broth into the pot, and stir well to incorporate all the ingredients. (chicken broth/stock optional for The past few days have been rainy and cold, non-vegetarian version) 11. Allow the ingredients to simmer for 20 minutes. which means it’s the perfect weather for soup! 12. Peel the baked potatoes and chop coarsely. Add to the vegetables and stir 1 tablespoon dried oregano But not just any soup – butternut squash soup! well. 1/4 cup sherry (optional) Enjoy this recipe and spend the gross, wet 13. Add the baked butternut squash, chopped basil/parsley and oregano to the and cold days making something yummy and 3 tablespoons butter contents of the pot. warm! 14. Mix well and increase the heat to medium. 3 tablespoons olive oil 15. Add remaining quart of broth, salt and pepper, and allow soup to cook until Chopped fresh basil/parsley remaining vegetables are soft yet firm when pierced with a fork. (optional) 16. Soup can be served as is or pureed to create a thicker, smoother texture.
C O P Y C HIEF
4 small-sized honey butternut squash (if honey variety is not available, use traditional butternut squash)
Follow Gab Varano on Instagram @gabgrabsgrub
Dynamic Duos:
A M u s i c a l Re v u e A b o u t Fr i e n d s h i p Masquerade Musical Theatre Co. performed “Dynamic Duos: A Musical Revue About Friendship,” on Friday, Oct. 18, in Hofstra’s Spiegel Theatre. The show was directed by Anna Lettera, with musical direction by Sabrina Remusat and choreography by Kaitlyn Perman. Performances featured Robert Clemens, Nikolette Dempsey, Grace Graham, Molly Guinen, Julianna Kantor, Sydney Kenton, Gavin Petersen, Samantha Rich, Brenden Scholl and Cate Shea. The crew was consisted of Assistant Stage Manager Shura Wyss, Stage Manager Andrew Dutile and Producers Lyndsey Yackel and Angie Meller.
Photos by Robert Kinnaird / The Hofstra Chronicle
Spread by Adam Flash and Talha Siddiqui
Arts and Entertainment
VOL. 86 ISSUE 5
Road to Broadway: Luke Islam’s golden age B2
Courtesy of Allin1Global
B2•October 22, 2019
A&E
The Chronicle
Road to Broadway: Luke Islam’s golden age
By Eleni Kothesakis
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
In the past few months, local eighth grader Luke Islam went from dreaming of being on stage to performing in front of millions on “America’s Got Talent” (“AGT”). In the 14th season of the show, 12-year-old Islam was not only lucky enough to advance beyond his audition, but also receive the coveted Golden Buzzer, which allows each judge to automatically advance one contestant to the live shows. Islam’s path to the semifinals may seem like a clear-cut one, but his journey is only just beginning. While Islam’s immense talent may be appreciated now, it took two attempts for him to make it past the auditions. Islam was contacted by representatives at “AGT” after they viewed a video of him singing karaoke to a song from “Waitress,” which was posted on the Broadway show’s YouTube channel. Islam sang “She Used to Be Mine,” a hit from the show written by Sara Bareilles. It was this third audition that catapulted him to further success. “I thought that this song would be a good way of paying ‘Waitress’ back for what they’ve
done for me,” Islam said. “If they hadn’t posted that video on YouTube, I would not be here right now. I wanted to give them a big thank you like they deserve because their karaoke session can change someone’s life.” Going into his audition, Islam had one thing on his mind: staying true to himself. This positive mindset proved to be successful for Islam as he received the Golden Buzzer very early on in the season by his favorite judge, Julianne Hough. “When I finally sang, I just put all my emotions into it. I really listened to the song a lot and researched it. Then when I got the Golden Buzzer, my life just changed massively,” he said. “I was so in shock; it was the second act of the day, second day of auditions. I didn’t think she would hit it that early in the day, that early in the season.” Islam’s dream Broadway roles include Damian from “Mean Girls” and Evan from “Dear Evan Hansen,” and he is already on his way to making those dreams come true. The Golden Buzzer was just a stepping stone for him. “Since my audition, I sang at ‘Waitress’ and hosted one of their karaoke nights, and I met
Sara Bareilles and Shoshana Bean,” Islam said. “I also have gotten so much more attention on social media and I met a lot of people I never thought I’d meet in my life ... and I have a bunch more stuff coming.” While this experience has yielded different opportunities for Islam, it did not come without its trials and tribulations. During his time on the show, he formed close bonds with fellow contestants, including Sophie Pecora and Ansley Burns. As he advanced in the competition, Islam was forced to say goodbye to the good friends that he made during his time on the show. “I felt more upset to see people go than happy that I got through. It’s not a sign that I’m ungrateful, it’s just that I missed all of those people,” he said. “We all gathered a relationship while we were just hanging around. Everyone on that show was sweet, no one took it for granted and no one was unappreciative.” A Long Island native, Islam was also faced with the difficulty of being across the country from his friends and family. He was not able to communicate with people and gauge their opinion on his performances. Despite
not knowing how people back at home felt about his performances, it is clear how the viewers and judges of “AGT” felt as they helped him advance into the semifinals. “AGT” is Islam’s first stop on his way to performing on Broadway. As a fan of acting, singing and dancing, Islam looks to Broadway as a source of more than just entertainment; he takes a lesson away from every show he sees and applies it to his own life to shape himself into a better person. He may not have landed a role on Broadway yet, but his time on “AGT” has taught Islam a lot about being in the public eye as a performer. “Keep being the person that you know you are and don’t hide anything. Push yourself, but don’t push yourself to the point where you’ll be stressed out and not feeling your best. Keep focusing on being true to who you are, and don’t let anyone change you because being you is all that matters,” Islam said. Keep an eye out for Luke Islam, because he may just be Broadway’s next hit star. Cover: Luke Islam
Local bands shine in underground venue
butts light up smiling faces in between sets. It’s been known by many names in its years of operation; – Our Lady of Perpetual Hope, High Hopes, the Dustbowl – but its mission remains the same: to provide a safe space where voices Courtesy of Julia Dickinson-Frevola and music can be heard from The next show will be Saturday, Nov. 9. people of all walks of life, in By Julia Dickinson-Frevola the comfort of a “bungus” hole SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE in the wall, according to its residents. This is The Dude Ranch, In the basement of a house where local bands come to play in Uniondale, people crowd sets, and open mic nights occur inside a room lit by red bulbs every Sunday. Currently home and bundles of Christmas lights. to several Hofstra students, The Merchandise and stickers lay out Dude Ranch hosts both local and on a folding table, accented by touring performers from all over a board covered in stickers from as an at-home “music” “venue,” bands whose performances long according to the house’s since departed the stage. Cool Instagram. air wafts slowly into the hot Notable performers in the room from the open back door past year who have made an as the crowd mingles. Murmured appearance include Fear Not voices and laughter lilt throughOurselves Alone, who are selfout the backyard in the cold dark described as “the last punk band evening air as glowing cigarette from Queens;” 25th Hour, who
recently played their first out-ofstate gig at the Dude Ranch in September; Lavender Menace, who make “power pop for your soul;” HTML; Power Funeral; Forget This and local favorite Foley. With earplugs at the ready to prepare for the coming storm of Weezer covers and artisanal punk jamming, attendees on foot, in chairs and on the floor sway and scream along to the emotionally-fueled songs echoing through the room and out into the yard. The Dude Ranch offers a unique experience for fans and music enthusiasts to meet performers in a space that is small enough to be familiar, but energetic enough to provide space for the big noise of some of the punk bands that perform. Attendees are not only allowed, but encouraged to interact with performers one-on-one to talk about music, interests, touring experiences and art. Not only does the Dude Ranch
provide a venue for bands to perform, but it also hosts open mic nights every Sunday at 8 p.m. Students and art enthusiasts are encouraged to share their poetry, perform stand-up, do spoken word or even get up and rant about how much they can’t stand how their roommate just leaves their dirty socks everywhere, if that’s what the night calls for. The Ranch is also dedicated to utilizing the homey basement for events like the “Halloween ExtravaDANza” on Saturday, Nov. 2, where all attendees are required to come as a different Dan/Daniel/Danny/Dani. For example, some (already taken) costumes include Dani from the floral Swedish terror “Midsommar,” the ghoulish teen Danny Phantom or even sexy Danny DeVito as the mustached Lorax. The Dude Ranch can be found a 10-minute walk off campus, as well as on Facebook and Instagram.
Quick Hits
Courtesy of Polygon
Zoë Kravitz has been cast as Catwoman for the latest “Batman” movie, and will act alongside Robert Pattinson.
Courtesy of USA Today
Jennifer Aniston joined Instagram on Tuesday, Oct. 15. Her first post was a selfie with the cast of “Friends.”
Courtesy of People
Billy Porter will play the Fairy Godmother in the newest “Cinderella” movie.
Courtesy of Entertainment Tonight
Kylie Jenner is selling merchandise inspired by “Rise and Shine,” the latest meme that she is at the center of.
Courtesy of ABC News
Fetty Wap was charged with battery after his altercation in Las Vegas in September.
A&E
The Chronicle
October 22, 2019•B3
‘Private Lives’ in the public eye By Victoria Bell ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Hofstra’s performance of “Private Lives” in the Joan and Donald Schaeffer Black Box Theater was one you didn’t want to miss. The 1930s play by Noël Coward has many twists and turns that had viewers on the edges of their seats while also falling out of their chairs from laughter. The storyline focuses on ex-lovers Elyot and Amanda, who, along with each of their new spouses, realize they are next-door neighbors in their honeymoon suites and even share an adjacent balcony. Through this, they journey through learning to cope and get along with one another – to varying degrees of success. The acting was nothing short of spectacular. Alyssa Palmigiano (Sibyl), Teddy Drummond (Elyot), Raymond Soeun (Victor), Anna Rudegeair (Amanda) and Rebecca Wild (Louise) made up the play’s cast. The fast pace of the production kept the audience on its toes and the cast failed to miss a beat.
This had much to do with the artistic guidance from the show’s director, Christopher Dippel. As they discussed in the talkback, the cast spent the entire first week of the three-week rehearsal process conducting table reads. Because of this, they were able to fully understand not only the storyline and characters, but also the punch lines and moments to emphasize within the show. Key elements of the acting that made it so great were the accents the actors maintained the entire production, as well as the choreography of the fight scenes they performed. With help from dialect coach Ilona Pierce and movement choreographer Robert Westley, the cast was able to convey a realistic delivery. Aside from the amazing cast themselves, the design of the show was another star of the night. The stage of the Black Box Theater was lit up with lighting design from Rychard Curtiss and decorated with scenic design from Caitrin Leigh and James P. Hart, Jr. Pei-Chi Su was in charge of costume design.
Each of these elements combined added to the show’s overall ambiance. It was quite clear that much thought was put into the design of the show to resemble its setting: 1930s France. Though written in Courtesy of Carol Rosegg the ’30s, ‘Private Lives’ is the first of five student productions to be shown throughout this semester. The this show next show will be ‘Legally Blonde.’ picked up on some modern-day concerns, one of regarding controversial topics in a small cast, the production which being the “role” many today’s society definitely made it itself carried enough energy and women feel the need to play in interesting and relatable. excitement to fill up the entire society. At a certain point in the Overall, Hofstra’s rendition of sold out crowd. “Private Lives” show, Amanda calls out Elyot “Private Lives” was a job well gave its audience an inside look for viewing women in a way done by the drama department. into a twisted tale of two couples that is unequal to men. Knowing The funny, fast-paced produccrazy in love – or maybe just that this show was developed so tion carried themes of love, lust, crazy. long ago but is still so modern luxury and laughter. Though
Unispan’s third signed artist, Rian Wyld, on ‘Becoming’ a mother By Catie Egan
SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE
Members of Unispan Records, Hofstra University’s studentrun record label, spend months researching artists before offering a record deal. After many meetings of pitching, tracking and listening to these artists, one in particular caught their eye: Rian Wyld, who would eventually go on to be Unispan’s third signed recording artist. Wyld is a female hip-hop artist whose talents extend to singing, rapping, songwriting and producing. Her first single under Unispan, titled “Becoming,” was released earlier this month on Friday, Oct. 4. Written by Wyld, the song focuses on the tribulations she faced as she realized she was going to be a mother at the time of her record deal signing. “I almost passed up on the opportunity to be Unispan’s next signed artist,” Wyld said, “because I was having my own
doubts. One of those doubts was telling me to just focus on my pregnancy and put my dreams on hold. However, I received so much support and encouragement from the label, who 100% accepted me and my son.” Wyld knew this needed to be her first single to address the doubts others were planting in her mind. “People were making me think it was impossible to be a young mother and still have a successful music career,” Wyld said. The music video for Wyld’s “Becoming” has reached nearly 1,000 views so far, and her social media accounts have surpassed 7,000 followers. By partnering with beauty product services, engaging with fans and posting new content, Wyld has learned how to make her presence known online. Student members of Unispan all take part in the promotional and creative aspects of Wyld’s artistry as well. The label is made up of 20 student members,
all of whom are passionate about extending their knowledge of the music industry. The label was founded by Sharon Goldsmith, vice dean at the Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Development at Hofstra, who spent over a decade in the music industry working as the director of Human Resources and Finance at rapper 50 Cent’s record label, G-Unit. Goldsmith mentors students and schedules industry professionals to present to students about various aspects of the music business. Speakers include Riggs Morales (vice president of A&R at Atlantic Records) and Pat Viala (Grammy Award-winning recording producer/engineer). Students have taken Wyld’s single release as an opportunity to showcase their own talents. “Working with Rian Wyld and the whole Unispan Team has been awesome and really eye opening. It’s definitely allowed me to hone my design and creative skills, since we’re expected
to be putting in work outside I can’t wait to share the rest of our meetings for things like of her project with the world,” listening parties, and shooting said Francesca Collado, a junior footage of our artists at festivals public relations major and and music videos,” said Chris member of the new media team Hunter, a junior video/TV proat Unispan. duction and business major and member of the Unispan creative team. “Being able to do what I love with such a talented artist is such a cool experience. [Wyld’s] message is something that I relate to, so her Courtesy of rianwyld.com lyricism Wyld’s ‘Becoming’ is now available on all streaming plathits home forms. Unispan Records is available to follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. with me.
The Chronicle A&E ‘My Hero Academia’ returns ‘PlusUltra!’
B4•October 22, 2019
By Natalie Evans STAFF WRITER
My Hero Academia, a popular anime that began just five years ago, has had a huge surge in popularity in the United States. The fourth season premiered on Saturday, Oct. 12, after a two month break following the end of season three in August. Viewers were on the edge of their seats after the thrilling end to last season. Said ending involved the hero, All Might, revealing to the world that he is no longer able to defend them after an intense battle with his longtime enemy, All for One. All of the pressure, attention and responsibility from then on belongs to main character Izuku Midoriya, with the challenge for this season being Midoriya having to balance his internship, training with All Might and whatever unexpected plans the League of Villains have in store for him. In a trope sometimes typical of anime series, the premiere touches
base with Class 1A on a regular officially the “Symbol of Peace.” groundwork for the season. It has day and provides an update on So don’t expect another shockestablished where the cast stands the aftermath of last season. A ing twist where All Might saves and where their world stands reporter comes to visit Class 1A the day: it’s up to everyone else heading into this season. to profile them, but that is just now, including professional Additionally, Midoriya will be a cover, as he’s starting his really there to next internship confirm who All this season, Might’s succespotentially sor is. with upperThe episode classmen. This was relaxed and plotline will simple, with fan introduce new favorites like characters Bakugo and Ida and undoubtnot changing at edly produce all since we last some new saw them and special moves there still being and abilities romantic tension in Class 1A. Courtesy of Newsweek between Uraraka ‘My Hero Academia’ is based on an award-winning manga of the same But does this and Midoriya. also mean the name. On the other hand, beginning of anthere is growing unrest among heroes like Endeavor. Audiences other rivalry for Midoriya? citizens concerning All Might’s can expect fewer bailouts for this A character we briefly met last absence, and villains are looking cast as a whole, and more intense season seems to be taking on a to capitalize on that. situations that will have a bigger more prominent role in season If this premiere has made impact on the storyline. As lightfour, from what can be seen in anything abundantly clear to the hearted and uplifting as the season the visual rollout and promotion audiences, it’s this: Midoriya is opener was, it did lay some for this season: Mirio Togata,
an upperclassman with a quirk that gives him the ability to pass through solid objects and permeate any form of solid matter. Before Midoriya, he was expected to become All Might’s successor. Another interesting character to get excited about is the whitehaired girl who is the sole focus of the end credits. This indicates that she will be important this season, being somehow involved with the League of Villains. Audiences are looking forward to this season, because everything that’s happened in past seasons has been leading up to this. Midoriya is in the driver’s seat and there are obstacles in his way. Fans hope to see more fight scenes featuring students from the class we haven’t seen and learn more details about their opponents in the League of Villains. Based on the first episode, this season has the potential to be “PlusUltra!” My Hero Academia is currently streaming on Hulu, Crunchyroll and Funimation.
Fosse and Verdon: The names behind the stars
his own dance style that went against most traditional techniques. He choreographed his first musiCourtesy of the Los Angeles Times cal, “The Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon first met each other while work- Pajama ing on the musical ‘Damn Yankees.’ Game,” in 1954. By Madeline Armstrong Next, he partially choreographed SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE and starred in George Abbot’s The anniversaries of the deaths show, “Damn Yankees.” Before of two of Broadway’s biggest this project, he was not a wellstars, Bob Fosse and Gwen known or respected choreographer Verdon, remind us what they gave at all, but after people saw what he the world of stage performing. created in “Damn Yankees,” they Fosse, born in 1927, aspired to be were hooked. No one could get a dancer as a child. At the age of enough of Bob Fosse. It was while 13, Fosse performed as a tapper working on this show that he met in burlesque shows, dreaming of Verdon, then a rising performer. being the “next Fred Astaire.” Verdon, who was born in 1925 However, he only performed for with rickets (a rare bone-weakena short period in his life, quickly ing disease), used dance to heal transitioning to choreographher legs. After years of training, ing and directing. Fosse created she decided to do it profession-
ally. Verdon landed her big break in 1953 as one of the lead roles in Cole Porter’s “Can-Can.” After opening night, the audience was in awe, chanting her name until she came back on stage to complete her bows. In 1955, she was cast in “Damn Yankees,” where she met Fosse. The pair would later marry in 1960. Fosse and Verdon did many shows together, with Fosse choreographing and Verdon starring, including “Damn Yankees,” “Redhead,” “Sweet Charity” and “Chicago.” Later on, Verdon assisted Fosse in choreographing and directing the movie adaptations of “Sweet Charity,” “Cabaret,” “Chicago” and “All That Jazz,” based on Fosse’s life. Even after separating in 1971, they still collaborated on almost every project. Fosse won one Academy Award, nine Tony Awards and three Emmy Awards, while Verdon won four Tony Awards and one Grammy Award. This past April, the TV show “Fosse/Verdon,” developed by Steven Levenson and Thomas Kail, was released. The show, which stars Michelle Williams and Sam Rockwell, dives into the
creative and romantic relationship that the two artists shared. Both actors did an incredible job, with Williams winning an Emmy for her performance. Spanning only eight episodes, the show reveals many unexpected facts about the stars’ lives. They both came from dark backgrounds, with Fosse having unsupportive parents, a verbally abusive dance teacher and even being sexually assaulted while performing in nightclubs at the age of 13. Verdon had similarly horrific experiences – being raped at 17 years old and having a son. Her parents made her marry the father of her child, whom she later divorced, leaving her son with her parents. “Fosse/Verdon” also touches upon Fosse’s many relationships with dancers in his shows. A major love interest of his was Ann Reinking (Margaret Qualley), whom he met in 1972 while choreographing and directing the show “Pippin.” Reinking was a dancer in the show, who soon became Fosse’s prodigy. The show also depicts Fosse’s addiction to drugs and his time spent in rehab shortly before starting work on “Chicago.” After
starting rehearsals for “Chicago,” Fosse suffered a heart attack and had to undergo open heart surgery. After all of this, Fosse still continued to work and create. In 1986, Verdon started on a “Sweet Charity” revival, but it just did not work without Fosse. Consequently, Fosse and Verdon worked together on the project, like many years prior. On the opening night, however, Fosse suffered a heart attack, passing away in Verdon’s arms on Sept. 23, 1987. Across the nation, Broadway fans still know Fosse and Verdon. Performers learn about Fosse and the incredible dedication it takes to learn the “Fosse” style of dance. Young girls dream to be Verdon when they grow up. Although they separated romantically, they were forever connected artistically. They were able to take whatever life threw at them and create something beautiful. They changed the world of Broadway and created a new caliber of artistry. They were necessary to the modern performing world. They were Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon.
A12 •October 22, 2019
op-ed
The Chronicle
The The views and opinions expressed in the Editorial section are those of the authors of the articles. They are not an endorsement of the views of The Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors. The Chronicle reserves the right to not publish any piece that does not meet our editorial standards.
Pride and Prejudice: To the “professor” who solicited me for sex
By Daniel Cody
In a globally connected queer community, it is very common for relationships to start online. Whether that be Tinder, Bumble or other various queer-oriented apps like Grindr and Scruff, college students use them as a tool to find friends or potential significant others. This is what I was wishing for when I joined Grindr. I put my information in my bio including my major, university and graduation year. However, the pursuit of this silver lining was interrupted when I was messaged by an individual who identified himself as an alleged professor and asked me for a sexual favor. He messaged, “Prof offering head.” “U in a fraternity?” I quickly responded, “No.” and he returned, “Oh ok” This was the end of our only interaction. His profile bio
indicated he was in Monroe Hall on the south side of campus, and that he was 45 years old. I immediately reported this interaction through the right channels, and it was guided into the hands of a Title IX coordinator. I met with Hofstra Public Safety afterward and from what I can perceive, the issue was handled accordingly. Overall it was a good response, and I have no complaints with Hofstra’s proceedings. Still, there’s a lot to dissect here. The individual entered this interaction by stating he was a professor, a person of power. He tried to use this power to seduce me, to entice me and pressure me into engaging in a sexual act. This seemed unreal, an eerie and almost cliche archetype of a predator. This made me feel disgusting, and a university should never be a
place where this occurs. This individual thought it was appropriate to seek students who are vulnerable to his alleged status and position of authority. I remember rejecting resources at my disposal and reassuring myself that I would be okay; this was just something unfortunate that happened to me. Yet, this festered in my psyche and affected my daily life. Sadly, this is not the only case of Hofstra students being approached by a professor on Grindr, and this madness needs to stop. According to the American Association of University Women, less than 10% of student sexual harassment victims attempt to report their experiences to a university employee, 35% or more of college students who experience sexual harassment do not tell anyone about their experiences
and 30% of undergraduate students have been sexually harassed. There is a prevalence of campus assault, and the lack of statistics regarding professorstudent relations is alarming. Clearly, the microcosm of a campus has a large effect on people, and this is an overlooked issue. Power dynamics are simple to understand. To approach a student from a position of authority is making a coercion with that power, emphasizing the disparity between parties. This is not the consent of two adults, but the manipulation of one to another. To put it simply, the power dynamic removes the choice. Because this particular alleged professor retained his anonymity, there is no way to tell if he has any will over my academic success at Hofstra. However, it is clear that this is problematic and an example of
that becomes a real issue. A common misconception is that people can only be happy when they’re surrounded by other people. Tables at restaurants are set for two, tickets to concerts that are sold online automatically assume you’re purchasing two, as if someone enjoying time to themselves is something to be looked down upon. After missing countless opportunities because I couldn’t find someone who shared the same interests as me or wasn’t “too broke” to go out, I realized how much people miss out on in life because of other people. We are conditioned to feel awkward when we’re doing things by ourselves. This not only makes us dependent on other people, but it stunts our
mental growth. We cling on to other people and never take time just for ourselves. The best days of my life have been when I chose to do what I wanted to, despite not having another person accompanying me. I’ve gone to concerts and Broadway shows by myself, I frequently go out to eat by myself and I don’t feel ashamed about any of it. The presence of another person shouldn’t change how much we enjoy ourselves while doing the things that usually bring us joy. When I went to a concert by myself, I didn’t feel like I was missing out because I didn’t have someone to share it with. I felt content that I had myself to enjoy the moment with and now the memory of it. By being preoccupied with making
plans with other people, we forget to live in the present. A simple night out can be made so much more complicated by the addition of another person, as we see time and time again in group chats. There is a negative stigma against self-care in the United States. Everyone is expected to be constantly working, and when we do that, we end up never taking any breaks. We all live to die, instead of living to live. Sometimes we need a break from the chaos that controls our lives, and part of that chaos includes our friends. If we take time to be by ourselves, even if it’s in little ways like taking a walk or grabbing a coffee, the impact it can have on our mental health and our confidence can be lifechanging.
what could have been a harmful series of events. This type of toxic masculinity has found haven in the queer community. When society normalizes things like the stereotype of the predatorial professor, we emulate them. The pressure we feel to align ourselves with these heteronormative projections of anonymity and secrecy are toxic. I do not know why this individual reached out to me in particular, or whether or not he would have favored me more if I indeed belonged to a fraternity, but one can only speculate the thought process of a predator. Pride and Prejudice is an ongoing op-ed series exploring experiences of and ideas surrounding discrimination on Hofstra’s campus.
One is not the loneliest number
By Eleni Kothesakis
As college students, we face a lot of pressure coming from multiple directions. We take classes that are too hard; we try to juggle school, internships, a social life and a job and we feel the need to do the absolute most to guarantee a true “college experience.” These pressures come from school, but outside of school there are so many more things that cause us insurmountable stress. One problem that I have found to be common among most people is our insistence on spending every moment with other people. It may seem like a normal thing to enjoy the company of others, but when that enjoyment becomes a fear of being judged when we spend time by ourselves, then
While experiencing life with other people is a completely natural and expected thing, we seldom remember that in the long run, we are stuck with ourselves, so we should do all that we can to make sure that we are living the best lives that we can. Our happiness should not be dependent on the actions of other people. We should be able to be sources of happiness for ourselves. This may be cheesy, but you only live once, so make every second count and do what makes you happy, even if it means doing it by yourself. Eleni Kothesakis is a public relations major and an editor for the Arts and Entertainment section of The Hofstra Chronicle.
Got hot takes? We want ’em. Email us huchronicle.op.ed@gmail.com
op-ed
The Chronicle
October 22, 2019 A13
What’s the T: Foreign language instruction needs reform By Serena Payne
If there is one topic that I can rant about for hours, it’s foreign language requirements. I have so many issues with the existence of these requirements that I could write on each issue separately, but instead I’m going to summarize and try to explain why I am so against the foreign language requirements at Hofstra University. My first issue with foreign language requirements in universities is the classism that goes along with them. Foreign language textbooks have a reputation for being expensive, often because you often need some kind of online access code in addition to the textbook. The prices for these books and access codes can often be over $300, and it is often impossible to pass the class without them. That means if you are a lowincome student like myself,
who already struggles to pay your tuition, you can be forced to take two or three expensive classes if you want your degree. There is very little evidence that these requirements actually help increase proficiency in a second language, since many students are simply trying to satisfy the requirement, and thus they are only “proficient” until they get the credit. So you are being forced to pay for expensive books for classes you may not even want to take that most likely won’t even accomplish the goals they set out to teach you. The other main issue I have with these classes is how uncomfortable and unbearable they can be if you are an LGBT student. I am a transgender woman, that is no secret, but just imagine for a second what that might be like while sitting in a Spanish
class. With such a gendered language, I am constantly being put in uncomfortable situations where I am misgendered. I once literally had someone in a class change my name to be Sereno in accordance with the masculine form. Imagine, for a second, someone going so far out of their way to misgender you that they change your name to end in an O instead of an A. Furthermore, I have been in classes where professors have asked people for personal details of their lives, such as dating partners, but the questions were so heteronormative that LGBT students were either forced to correct the professor – and risk further embarrassment – or just answer as if they were not LGBT. Neither of those outcomes should be happening in an expensive class at an expensive university.
isolated one, and many people who are vulnerable to HIV deal with numerous obstacles to get prescribed PrEP. However, California is alleviating a few obstacles for its residents. Gavin Newsom, the state’s governor, signed legislation on Monday, Oct. 7, that I believe is going to save a lot of lives. This bill allows pharmacists to provide patients with PrEP and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) over the counter, without a prescription, for up to 60 days. The bill also cuts through some red tape that is associated with insurance cost coverage for the drugs. People who do not have access to affordable, comprehensive health care will finally be able to be on this life-changing drug. PrEP is a once-daily pill that, when taken consistently, can reduce one’s chance of contracting HIV. PEP is a 30-day pill regimen that someone can begin taking up to 72 hours after they believe they may have been exposed to HIV. As of right now, PEP can be
prescribed at any emergency room to anyone who believes they have been exposed (yes, that means emergency room expenses). PrEP also requires a prescription, and unfortunately many general practitioners (like my pediatrician) don’t know much about it. Some health care providers know about PrEP but are hesitant to prescribe it because they believe it will encourage risky sexual behavior. This reasoning is reductive and stigmatizing. California is truly paving the way for access to HIV contraception and destigmatization with this bill. By giving more people the opportunity to begin PrEP, California is helping normalize conversations about HIV contraception and doing a lot toward preventing new diagnoses of HIV. According to recent information from the Center for Disease Control, one in six men who have sex with other men will be diagnosed with HIV in their lifetime.
I don’t want professors to assume that I’m a cisgender man, and thus ask me if I have a girlfriend. I don’t want professors to ask me which parent is my favorite, and then follow up by asking why the other one isn’t my favorite. I don’t want to be forced to pay to be in a linguistic nightmare just so that I can get a bachelor’s degree in psychology. There are a couple of solutions to these issues that I can see. My first suggestion would be to do away with the general foreign language requirements. While I still believe foreign languages being offered is important and that everyone who can should strive to be fluent in multiple languages, the fact of the matter is that requiring these classes is not the way to do it – and they cause harm and discomfort in the process. Secondly, I think that all
levels of all languages should have versions offered that do not require an expensive textbook and/or access code, so that way if there is going to be a requirement, lowerincome students can afford to take these classes as well. And finally, to further make language classes more accessible, the American Sign Language classes offered should also count towards the requirement. Whatever path is chosen, if Hofstra University truly wants classes to be open and accessible for all students, then something about the foreign language requirement has to change.
What’s the T is a column from the perspective of Serena Payne, a senior psychology major and transgender woman. She is also a member of the Dean of Students’ Diversity Advisory Board.
California PrEPs for HIV; New York should follow By Dennis van Dunk
I am from a small town in upstate New York and have been seeing the same doctor since I was born. As a 20-year-old sexually active queer person, I know that Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is an option for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) contraception. So when my doctor asked if I was sexually active, I said, “Yes.” When he asked if I was safe, I said, “Yes.” And that is where the conversation stopped. He didn’t ask any further about my activity or if I would like to be tested (I would have). I knew asking about getting a prescription for PrEP would be a trying experience, but I asked anyway. He told me he didn’t know what it was, Googled it, and then told me he would have to talk to a communicable disease specialist before we could discuss the prescription any further. It has been over a year, and that discussion never happened. My experience is not an
A 2019 study estimated that 14% of transgender women have HIV. These numbers may seem relatively small, but this is a preventable disease. At the beginning of the HIV epidemic, the United States government provided very little funding and left those who had been diagnosed with HIV to suffer. The epidemic began in the ’80s, and contrary to popular belief, never ended. Here we are, nearly 40 years later, with lifesaving drugs and revolutionary prevention methods that people are still struggling to access. Andrew Cuomo, the governor of New York, introduced a plan to “end the epidemic” in 2014 with one pillar being to facilitate access to PrEP. As a New Yorker, I can tell you PrEP is not very accessible. Long Island has more AIDS cases than 26 entire states, and a 2014 study estimated that 6,200 people are living with HIV in the Nassau/ Suffolk area. Educate yourself, educate others, advocate for
members of communities that are more vulnerable to HIV. And most importantly, call your representatives! Other states need to follow California’s efforts to end the epidemic. The threat of HIV has haunted us for too long. Dennis van Dunk is the president of Hofstra’s Organization for Sexual Empowerment.
A14 •October 22, 2019
op-ed
China, the NBA and American consumer morality
By Matthew Buzard
Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey stirred controversy when he tweeted out an image that read, “Fight for Freedom. Stand with Hong Kong.” Quickly after, Morey deleted the tweet and apologized for offending the fans and his “friends in China.” NBA players and coaches (who have a reputation of being outspoken with domestic political issues) were either strikingly silent or tremendously lenient in their public responses, and unwilling to denounce China amidst Hong Kong’s push for greater sovereignty and democracy. Public bipartisan backlash ensued. Commentators from MSNBC and Fox News strongly condemned the statements made by the NBA players and coaches. Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez even co-signed a letter criticizing the NBA’s handling of the situation. Commentators were also quick to point out the seemingly hypocritical nature of players and coaches who easily denounce injustices in America, but ignore injustices overseas that affect their paychecks. Notably, superstar LeBron James told reporters that Morey was “uneducated” on the topic and should have better understood the “ramifications”
of the tweet. As a reminder, the Chinese government regularly imprisons those who speak out against the government, controls the media and internet, forces millions of abortions on its citizens due to their one child policy and currently holds over one million Muslims in internment camps. It’s pretty clear what’s happening here: The NBA, the players and the apparel companies have much to gain from their relationship with China. It’s clear that the NBA and the players are willing to look the other way when it comes to human rights issues, so long as they get paid. This should shock no one. Large corporations – like the NBA, Nike or Disney – do not have morality, ethics or political opinions. These corporations care about one thing, and that is making money. If a corporation publicly endorses a moral or political viewpoint, they are only doing so because they believe it will help them financially. If the opposing viewpoint becomes more financially advantageous, the corporation will change its stance. For example, the NBA is pro-free speech until it affects their monetary interests with China. The individuals and employees running the business may have their own personal
philosophies, but they won’t publicly espouse their beliefs if those beliefs would hurt the bottom line. The NBA has the most liberal fan base of all major sports, according to a FiveThirtyEight poll. Therefore it makes business sense for the NBA to allow players to opine on political issues with a liberal bent. However, China pulling out of their deals with the NBA will severely hurt the NBA’s overall revenue, so it makes no business sense for the NBA to denounce the Chinese government. It may be immoral and wrong, but the NBA is a business like all others. Look, the hypocrisy of supposedly pro-human rights NBA players and coaches staying silent or outwardly supporting the Chinese government is striking and abhorrent, but again, it’s not surprising. This is, however, an issue that should spark discussion and consideration in all our lives. What are you willing to put up with in order to better yourself financially? We all have purchased and currently own products that were manufactured in China. It seems wrong to be aggressively denouncing the NBA while simultaneously using products that were cheaply manufactured in countries
across the world that commit heinous human rights violations daily. I’m disgusted by what happens regularly in countries like China, but also I love the ability to buy cheap stuff on Amazon. Can I really be so high and mighty here? Consumers dictate markets. If you have problems with a company or country, you should try financially harming the company or country by not purchasing the products they produce. We, the American people, have given China the thumbs-up because we, the American consumers, love their cheap exports. Maybe this story could get Americans to consider where their products are coming from, and whether they should support certain manufacturers. Maybe we could choose to greater emphasize those products manufactured in countries with basic human rights, and maybe then we could create real change. Or, I guess, we could keep tweeting about the NBA and China from our iPhones.
Matthew Buzard has a B.S. in legal studies from Stevenson University, and is a current law student at Hofstra.
The stressful side of therapy dogs
The Chronicle
Quick Hits Trump retracted his decision to host the G-7 summit at his private golf resort in Florida.
Amid controversy, Justin Trudeau is reelected Prime Minister of Canada.
Bernie Sanders hosted a rally in Queens on Saturday, Oct. 19, where Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez endorsed him for the presidency.
Protests ensue as the New York City Council is expected to vote to replace the controversial Rikers Island prison facility.
Comic by Amanda Romeo
NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Christina Koch completed the first ever all-female space walk on Friday, Oct. 18.
SPORTS
The Chronicle
october 22, 2019 A15
Pride Performer of the Week:
LUISA
SYDLIK 44 ASSISTS 10 KILLS 5 BLOCKS
4ASSISTS ,000 Anthony Roberts / The Hofstra Chronicle
Pride net two late goals in win over William & Mary By Eddie Gardner STAFF W R I T E R
Final Hofstra
3
W&M
1
The Hofstra men’s soccer team scored two late secondhalf goals to defeat the College of William & Mary Tribe, 3-1, on Saturday, Oct. 19. The Pride notched their first win in their last four games and improved to 6-6-1 on the season, as well as 3-2-1 in Colonial Athletic Association play. William & Mary dropped to 4-7-2 and 2-21 in conference play. The first 20 minutes of play was controlled by William & Mary, as they generated plenty of scoring chances and registered two shots to Hofstra’s none. The Pride turned the
tables at the 20:27 mark and turned their first shot on goal into a 1-0 lead. Stefan Mason sent a cross in front of the goal and George O’Malley headed it in at the far post for his third goal of the season. The Tribe nearly tied it four minutes later when Alexander Levengood took a hard shot toward the left corner of the goal, but was stopped by a diving Alex Ashton. The Pride responded with an attack of their own as Adam Savill found Matthew Vowinkel with a great pass in front of the goal, but Vowinkel left the shot wide. William & Mary finally got on the board at 57:59 after Julian Ngoh had space in front of the goal and sent a shot past Ashton. The Tribe continued to control on offense and nearly took the lead three minutes later, but Ashton denied Ngoh of his second goal of the game on a tough shot that almost got over
his head. Hofstra scored a clutch late goal by Jesse Schleeper at 79:59 to retake the lead, 2-1. Lennart Seufert took a deep shot toward the net that deflected off the goal post, but it was put in on the rebound by Schleeper for his first career goal. The Pride did not look back after that and got some insurance thanks to Petter Soelberg’s third goal of the season. Storm Strongin’s pass deflected off a Tribe defender right in front of Soelberg, who rocketed a shot past a diving Kieran Baskett to the top left corner of the goal. With the goal, he tied Vowinkel for most goals this season for Hofstra. Hofstra registered 13 total shots to William & Mary’s 10, and also led in shots on goal, five to four. Ashton had a strong game for the Pride, as he made three great saves – two of them coming late in the game.
Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Petter Soelberg scored the final goal of the game.
A16• october 22, 2019
The Chronicle
SPORTS
Taylor’s goal leads to draw against UNC-Wilmington By Mike Senatore STAFF W R I T E R
Fina l (2 OT ) Hofstra
1
UNCW
1
The Hofstra women’s soccer team played to a 1-1 draw with the UNC-Wilmington (UNCW) Seahawks on Sunday, Oct. 20, to keep their unbeaten streak alive. It has been 11 games since the Pride has suffered a loss, and they remain undefeated in Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) play with a record of 5-0-2. They also maintained their unbeaten record in home games, with a record of 6-0-1 in matches at Hofstra Soccer Stadium. It was a goal from Miri Taylor nine minutes into the second half that tied up the game for the Pride after falling behind early. The tally came on a downfield drive from Sabrina Bryan, who
made a defender miss right outside the box before sending it to Lucy Porter. Porter promptly passed it right across the goal to a charging Taylor, who knocked it in. Taylor’s goal was the first given up by the Seahawks in six games, as they had outscored their opponents 11-0 in their previous five matches. Sydney Schneider, UNCW’s goalkeeper, made two saves in the draw while allowing the first goal against the Seahawks in 507 minutes and 15 seconds of playing time. For Hofstra, Skylar Kuzmich tied her career high with six saves. The lone goal allowed by Kuzmich came in the 31st minute when she came too far out of the net. Morgan Nanni of the Seahawks dribbled the ball around the sliding Kuzmich and passed it to teammate Emily Moxley, who was standing in front of an open net, to tap in for a goal. “We gave up a really soft goal,” said Hofstra head coach
Simon Riddiough. “It was poor from us in many regards, and many individuals messed up. At this level, against good teams, you can’t afford to do that. Fortunately, we battled back and we found our way with [Taylor] and Porter and got back in the game.” The match was intense and featured both teams committing fouls in the double digits, as 20 fouls were called against UNCW and 16 went against Hofstra, including seven against Taylor alone. “When the stakes get higher, it becomes more physical,” Riddiough said. “With the top two teams in the conference battling it out, those games do get physical, and it’s our job to give as good as we get.” The Seahawks outshot the Pride 13-12 in the doubleovertime match and took seven shots on goal compared to the Pride’s three. Hofstra was aggressive offensively, taking eight corners to UNCW’s four, but quality scoring
opportunities were hard to find thanks to the tough defense of the Seahawks. “You’ve got to give credit to Wilmington on their effort and desire to slow us down, and they did,” Riddiough said. “I also have to question my front forwards and how they challenged that. I thought we didn’t today; we were soft.” By avoiding a loss against
the team that previously held second place in the CAA rankings, the Pride remains atop the conference standings with two matches remaining in the regular season, both with major implications for tournament seeding. They travel to Towson University for their penultimate contest of the regular season on Thursday, Oct. 24.
Adam Flash / The Hofstra Chronicle Miri Taylor scored the game-tying goal in Sunday’s draw aginst UNCW.
Second half goals doom field hockey in loss to Rider By Quentin Thorne STAFF W R I T E R
Fina l
Rider
4
Hofstra
1
The Hofstra field hockey team fell to the Rider University Broncs by a score of 4-1 on Sunday, Oct. 20, at Hofstra Field Hockey Stadium. The Pride got off to a slow start in the contest, finishing the first quarter scoreless. The defense played strong, deterring the Broncs from the defensive zone, but their play did not translate into any scoring opportunities. Goalie Merlijn van der Vegt was active to start the second quarter, making two early saves. Rider controlled possession of the ball early in the quarter as the offense for the opposing team gained momentum. With 8:41 left in the half, the Pride capitalized on their first penalty corner of the game
as Djuna Slort found the back of the net off an assist from Frankie O’Brien. Slort has been a key part of the Pride’s offense, scoring a goal in each of the last two games for Hofstra. Van der Vegt kept up the pace following the team’s goal, making a key save off a penalty corner with 5:20 remaining in the half. To close out the half, the Pride led the Broncs by a score of 1-0, in spite of being outshot four to three. “During our first half, I thought we played a good half of hockey, in the second quarter especially,” said Hofstra head coach Courtney Veinotte. The Rider Broncs answered back less than two minutes into the second half when forward Carly Brosious scored off an assist by midfielder Julia Divorra. Rider controlled the pace early in the third quarter, with Divorra traversing the field frequently to maintain possession for the Broncs. Midfielder Kaitlyn Fleming scored off an assist by Brosious, and the Broncs took their first
lead of the game with 7:46 remaining in the third quarter. The Pride defense began to collapse at this point, as they allowed their third straight goal to Rider in the third quarter. Tess van Ommeren found the back of the net to cushion the Broncs lead. “We couldn’t maintain our same level of play in the third quarter, we gave up too many goals,” Veinotte said. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Broncs commanded a 3-1 lead off of explosive play by the offense. The Broncs picked up where they left off, getting an additional goal by Divorra late in the fourth quarter. The Pride could not seem to get anything going in the second half, as they were outplayed in every statistical category in the game. With the loss, Hofstra falls to 6-9 on the season and remains at 0-3 in Colonial Athletic Association play.
Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Atheltics The Pride offense was outscored 4-0 in the second half.
SPORTS
The Chronicle
october 22, 2019 A17
Volleyball’s win streak snapped at hands of JMU
By Zevan Shuster STAFF W R I T E R
Fina l JMU
3
Hofstra
0
The Hofstra Pride volleyball team was defeated by the James Madison University (JMU) Dukes on Sunday, Oct. 20, falling in straight sets, 25-19, 25-18, 25-17. The loss snapped Hofstra’s four-match winning streak, bringing them to 12-8 overall and 5-3 in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). Meanwhile, JMU won its fourth match in a row and improved to 12-6 on the season and 6-2 in CAA play to move into sole possession of second place in the conference standings ahead of the Pride. Senior Laura Masciullo had a match-high 14 kills, notching her eighth straight contest reaching double-digit kills for the Pride. She has reached that mark in all but three matches this season and is in the top
three in the CAA in both kills and kills per set. Masciullo, who has now led the team in kills in 17 matches this season, had a .226 attack percentage and added six digs in the contest. She also now ranks No. 8 among NCAA Division I active kill leaders with 1,580 putdowns. Fellow senior Luisa Sydlik contributed 22 assists of her own, and though it tied for her second-lowest total of the season, she maintained her 85-match streak of at least 20 kills. She has not failed to reach 20 assists since Nov. 8, 2016, against Towson University, and she is in the top two in the CAA in both assists and assists per set. Hofstra’s opening set was their strongest, as they were within striking distance, 20-18, before the Dukes pulled away. The Pride also hit .143 in the opening frame, their best of the match, but the figure was outdone in each set by JMU. The Pride’s hit percentage for the match was .087, while JMU’s was more than triple that at .296.
The Hofstra hit percentage is No. 5 in the CAA on the season, despite being in the top three in assists and kills. The Pride committed 24 errors, compared to just 11 for JMU. For JMU, freshman Sophia Davis, top 10 in the CAA in kills, had seven on the afternoon and senior Sarah Martin had 24 of her team’s 28 assists on the day. Hofstra junior Ana Martinovic added seven kills of her own, a .158 attack percentage, and Pride junior Sanne Maring tallied four of Hofstra’s 10 block assists, her season best and the Pride’s best on the afternoon. Hofstra still leads the all-time series between the two schools 26-17. The Pride return to action on Thursday, Oct. 24, when they host the Phoenix of Elon University at the David S. Mack Physical Education Center. The match is set for 7 p.m.
Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Laura Masciullo had 14 kills and two blocks in Sunday’s loss at JMU.
HOFSTRA ATHLETIC CALENDAR HOME
T U E SD AY
W EDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATU R D AY
SU N D AY
AWAY
10/22
10/23
10/24
10/25
1 0 /2 6
1 0 /2 7
ME N’S S OC CE R
D E L AWA RE – 7 P. M .
W OM E N’S S OC CE R
TOW SON
VOL L E YBALL
ELON
FIE L D H OCKE Y
WILLIAM & M A RY
– 7 P.M.
– 1 P. M . WILLIAM & M A RY
– 7 P.M.
– 1 P. M .
TO W SO N – 3 P. M .
DELAWARE
TO W SO N
– 3 P.M .
– 1 2 P. M .
A18• october 22, 2019
The Chronicle
SPORTS
Lazar: It is time for fall sports to bring home the hardware By David Lazar ASSISTA N T S P O RT S E D I TOR
The thrill of victory. Every athlete craves it, giving their all to achieve the ultimate goal. For the four Hofstra fall sports teams, the thrill of victory has been plentiful this season. Women’s soccer, men’s soccer, field hockey and volleyball all have one common denominator. Each squad has managed preseason expectations, adding to the already impressive resume of Hofstra fall sports. It all starts with the women’s soccer team. The Pride was tabbed to three-peat as Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) champions in preseason polls. This continued a narrative of success that includes 15 CAA women’s soccer tournament berths, a dynasty unmatched on this campus. With expectations sky-high, the Pride has delivered. Hofstra is on an 11-game unbeaten streak, clocking in at 11-3-2 overall. Most importantly, they have stepped up when the games matter most, notching a 5-0-2 CAA record. Hofstra is undefeated in front of their home crowd as well, performing at a 6-0-1 mark at Hofstra Soccer Stadium. Led by juniors Sabrina Bryan and Lucy Porter, this team is the real deal. The CAA tournament is just around the corner, and there is no reason to believe this team will slow down. Following the women’s soccer team’s footsteps, the volleyball team has quietly gone to work
this season. Coming into the year, the conference’s nine volleyball head coaches voted Hofstra the second-best team in the CAA. Another fall sport team, another forecast of victory ahead. Their slate has been sprinkled with marquee victories over difficult opposition. Hofstra made quick work of the University of Delaware on Friday, Oct. 18, winning the match in straight sets, 25-20, 25-18, 28-26. Senior Luisa Sydlik surpassed 4,000 career assists in the victory, becoming the fourth player in program history to reach the mark. Sydlik is not alone. CAA Preseason Player of the Year Laura Masciullo has led the team in kills in 17 matches, tallying 288 total on the season. Last year, she was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-East Region and the Google Cloud All-District First Team, and she is entering her stride once again. A team can have all the talent, but a coach must lead them to the Promised Land. And the volleyball team has one of the best. Head coach Emily Mansur was named 2018 CAA Coach of the Year, an award that does not even begin to chronicle her impact on this program. National tournaments, huge victories and milestone moments have defined her career, all of which have taken place right here on Long Island. Since Mansur has taken over head coaching responsibilities, the David S. Mack Physical Education Center has emerged as one of the most daunting arenas in the country. The Pride’s 56-14 home record during Mansur’s tenure is nothing to scoff at, and with the CAA Tournament coming to Hempstead, the future is bright on the court. But for the men’s soccer team, the future seemed bleak
11-3-2 (5-0-2)
12-8 (5-3)
6-6-1 (3-2-1)
6-9 (0-3)
WOMEN'S SOCCER
MEN'S SOCCER
VOLLEYBALL
Images Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics
at the start of the year after losing star midfielder Luke Brown to the reigning NCAAchampion Maryland Terrapins and defenseman Sean Nealis to the New York Red Bulls. Brown ranked second on the Pride in goals and points last season, while Nealis earned CAA Defensive Player of the Year in 2018. Entering the year, the Pride was ranked third in the preseason poll following a second-place finish in the 2018 CAA Tournament. They currently sit in third place, but still have four games remaining on the docket, all at home, where they are 3-2-0 this year. With a strong finish, the
Check out our website: www.thehofstrachronicle.com/category/sports
FIELD HOCKEY
Graphic Courtesy of David Lazar
Pride can give themselves an opportunity for redemption in postseason play. Hofstra lost to James Madison University in last year’s CAA Championship game on penalty kicks, just missing out on an NCAA Tournament berth. Building off that heartbreaking loss, one of Hofstra’s most underrated teams can turn heads and find themselves battling for glory on the national stage. The field hockey team may be on the outside looking in, but they are also exceeding expectations in a quietly successful campaign. Last year’s head coach, Kathy De Angelis, left a massive hole to fill when she stepped down at the end of the season, but current head coach Courtney Veinotte has been the savior the team needed. The first-time head coach understandably had some learning curves, but won four
out of five games after dropping her first four. Life is a journey, not a destination, and Veniotte is slowly finding her groove behind the bench. Freshman goalie Merlijn van der Vegt is helping her first-year head coach, giving Veinotte a cornerstone to build around. The team had to overcome underwhelming preseason expectations, as the Pride were projected to finish second-to-last in the CAA before the season. Hofstra’s six wins are tied for fourth in the conference, another impressive feat for a young and emerging team. No matter the fall sport, Hofstra has cultivated a winning environment on campus. Postseason play is just around the corner, and the Pride have hefty expectations. The thrill of victory is commonplace for Hofstra fall athletes. Now, it is time to bring home the hardware.
SPORTS
The Chronicle
october 22, 2019 A19
International play prepares Miri Taylor for prominent role By Mike Senatore STAFF WR I T E R
For many athletes, being thrust into a major role for a perennial championshipcontending team with a long history of success in just their second year would seem like a daunting task. Miri Taylor of the women’s soccer team, however, has stepped up her game and become a deadly weapon for the Pride in her sophomore campaign. The 2018 Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Rookie of the Year has dazzled through 15 matches in the 2019 regular season, ranking second on the team in points accumulated with 19. She’s tied with Sabrina Bryan for second in goals scored with six, and is second in assists with seven. Of her six goals, four were game-winners. “Last year I played quite
regularly, which I was really happy with, but I had never played striker before,” Taylor said. “I think last year, while playing striker, I was a bit unaware of what to do, and I was one of the younger players on the pitch. Now I feel like I’m getting into my role a bit more, understanding what to do and where to be, and obviously our leaders on the team are fantastic. We help each other a lot.” Soccer, or football as the Gillingham, England, native also calls it, has been a part of Taylor’s life since her childhood. “Growing up, I was doing soccer mixed with ballet because my mum wanted me to take ballet and my dad preferred soccer. All my friends at school were boys, and I went down the soccer route because all my friends were following it, so I
went to a local boys team when I was around 8 years old, which is quite late.” Despite getting started in the sport admittedly late, Taylor quickly took to soccer and played throughout her schooling. She spent five years playing with the development team for Chelsea Ladies Football Club before she was selected to make her debut for the squad’s first team in October of 2016. Just 16 years old at the time, her selection made her the second-youngest athlete to ever suit up for the team. With Chelsea’s development team, Taylor earned a Reserves League championship in 2017. The next year, after signing with Arsenal Ladies Football Club, she won another, tallying six goals and 25 assists. She played for England’s U15 and U17 teams, accumulating
21 caps between the two. With the U17 team, she reached the team’s first draw with the United States in their history, as well as their first win over Germany and a title match at the European Finals. Taylor lists these experiences as building the tolerance to high pressure that she’s showcased throughout her career with the Pride. “Especially in big games, I feel like I can handle the pressure a bit more just because I’ve experienced it,” she said. “The game against Germany was such a tough game; against America, [another] tough game; so I feel like I can handle the pressure because I’ve been there. A lot of the other girls on this team have been in the same position, and we all know we can do it, so I feel like we all lean on each other and have a lot of experience.” After a stint on the boys’ soccer team with Soccer Elite Football Academy in the 2017-18 season, she joined the defending CAA champions for the 2018 season. The transition from England to America came with its challenges, and the style of soccer played in her new home was one of them. “I think it’s massively different [from English soccer],” Taylor said. “Me and all the other international players from England, New Zealand and everywhere have had to adapt a lot to soccer here. It’s a lot faster and it’s more direct, but I think the transition from playing in England to playing in America has helped me a lot because it’s challenged me in different ways.” “There’s always a transitional period, but I think we’re seeing the benefits of that now,” said Hofstra head coach Simon Riddiough. “Miri’s obviously a very talented player and has
been for her two years [with Hofstra], but now she’s really improved herself physically. She’s fitter, stronger and faster than she was last year, and because of that athleticism she’s elevated her game to another level, as well.” Despite the adjustments, Taylor played well in her freshman year with the team. She scored three goals, including a game winner against the University of Delaware, and made three assists. Two of those assists set up game-winning goals by her teammates, showcasing her keen ability for assists that is even more prevalent this year. “I love to assist people,” she said. “It’s just as good as scoring in my eyes. In England, I was always a center midfielder, so that was always my role. I think playing up front now is helping me, because I assist the girls and I get on the end of their assists. It’s a collective unison that we’ve built.” Now, after emerging as a prominent scorer and an intense, physical defender for the Pride, Taylor’s role with the team is the largest she’s had in her career. Her ability is not the only thing that makes her stand out on the field, however, as she plays each match with her sleeves rolled up to her shoulders. “I just get so hot,” Taylor said. “Our tops are quite clingy so I just roll my sleeves up, and I don’t know if I look silly or not. But, now that I’ve done it once, I feel like I have to stick to it, so it’s almost a superstition now.” The Pride hopes that for as long as Taylor’s sleeves are rolled up, their success continues to mount as they look to win their third-straight CAA championship this season.
Back Cover:
Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Taylor’s seven goals this season are a career high and puts her at second for Hofstra in goals this season.
Women’s soccer extends unbeaten streak to 11 games
The Hofstra Chronicle
Sports
October 22, 2019
Ro11ing With Pride
Women’s soccer extends their unbeaten streak to 11 games after a tie against UNC-Wilmington.
Photo Courtesy of Hofstra Athletics