THE INDEPENDENT
TO UNCOVER
NEWSPAPER SERVING
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NOTRE DAME, SAINT MARY’S
AND REPORT
AND HOLY CROSS
IT ACCURATELY
VOLUME 58, ISSUE 39 | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
SMC reverses transgender admissions policy President Conboy announced the change after receiving backlash from the College community Observer Staff Report
MEGHAN LANGE | The Observer
The Saint Mary’s College Board reversed the new admissions policy that would have considered transgender applicants and taken effect next fall, citing criticism from the Saint Mary’s community.
Kay v. Irish Rover case dismissed by judge A Not r e Da me pr ofe ss or ’s l aw s u it a g a i n st t he I r i s h Rov er a nd her c l a i m s of def a m at ion w er e d i sm i s s e d Mond ay by t he St . Jos eph Sup er ior C ou r t . T he c ou r t r u le d t h at t w o a r t ic le s a b out Not r e Da me s o c iolog y a nd g loba l a ff a i r s pr ofe s s or Ta m a r a K ay publ i s he d i n t he I r i s h Rov er, a st udent ne w spa p er c om m it te d to pr e s er v i ng t he Un i v er sit y ’s C at hol ic c h a r ac ter, w er e m ade w it h r e a s on a ble basi s i n f ac t a nd i n c ompl ia nc e w it h t he l aw. A f ter hold i ng a he a ri ng w it h or a l a r g u ment s i n D e c emb er 202 3, t he St . Jos eph Sup er ior C ou r t d i sm i s s e d t he c a s e u nder I nd i a n a’s a nt i-SL A PP l aw, w h ic h pr ote c t s Fi r st A mend ment r ig ht s. St . Jo s eph C ou nt y S en ior Jud ge Ste v en H. Dav id sig ne d t he r u l i ng.
Ac c ord i ng to t he order to d i sm i s s, t he c ou r t fou nd “t h at t her e i s a r e a s on a ble ba si s i n f ac t for de s c r ibi ng D r. K ay a s ‘ w i l l i ng to help st udent s ac c e s s a b or t ion,’” a nd si m i l a r st atement s. I n May 202 3, K ay a l le ge d i n t he l aw s u it t h at t he t w o a r t ic le s, publ i s he d i n O c tob er 2022 a nd Ma rc h 202 3, c ont a i ne d fa lse st atement s, def a m at ion a nd ot her i n ac c u r ac ie s, r e s u lt i ng i n a l le g at ion s of h a r a s sment , t h r e at s a nd d a m a ge to her r e sident i a l pr op er t y. T he c ou r t fou nd t h at “t he a l le ge d def a m ato r y st atement s w er e t r ue, w it h i n t he me a n i ng of t he l aw, not m ade w it h ac t u a l m a l ic e, d id not c ont a i n a def a m ator y i n fer enc e a nd t her e w er e no d a ma ge s t h at w er e c au s a l l y l i n ke d to T he I r i s h Rov er a r t ic le s.” T he Irish Rov er ’s
NEWS PAGE 4
VIEWPOINT PAGE 5
Observer Staff Report
a nt i-SL A PP mot ion met t he st a nd a rd s for t he c a s e to b e d i sm i s s e d . T he a l le ge d l y def a m ato r y st atement s w er e m ade i n f u r t her a nc e of t he de fend a nt ’s r ig ht to f r e e s p e e c h, i n c on ne c t ion w it h a publ ic i s s ue a nd i n go o d f a it h w it h a r e as on a ble ba si s i n l aw a nd f ac t . T he c ou r t ’s de c i sion uphold s t he I r i s h Rov er ’s r ig ht to f r e e s p e e c h . Dav id fou nd t h at K ay ’s r eferenc e s to “ he a lt hc a r e” a nd t he let ter “J” on her do or a r e e v idenc e t h at s he w a s w i l l i ng to help pr ov ide a b or t ion pi l l ac c e s s, g i v en t he c onte x t of her publ ic st a nc e on a b or t ion r ig ht s. O v er t he pa st s e v en mont h s, t he I r i s h Rov er a nd Ta m a r a K ay m ade op p o si ng a r g u ment s a b out K ay ’s ac t ion s c h r on ic le d t h r ou g h c ou r t f i l i ng s. T he see KAY V. ROVER PAGE 4
SCENE PAGE 7
Sa i nt Ma r y ’s w i l l no longer consider t ra nsgender appl ica nts for adm ission, accord i ng to a n ema i l f rom Col lege President Kat ie Conboy a nd Boa rd cha i r Mau reen Ka ra nt z Sm it h sent to facu lt y, sta f f, st udents a nd a lu m nae T hu rsday mor ni ng. T he Boa rd met t h is week a nd decided to reverse its Ju ne decision fol low i ng back la sh f rom t he Col lege com mu n it y, t he ema i l sa id. Conboy a nd Sm it h w rote t hat t he new ad m issions pol ic y, wh ich wa s set to ta ke ef fect nex t fa l l, caused d iv ision a mong t he ca mpus a nd a lu m nae. “It is i ncrea si ng ly clea r, however, t hat t he posit ion we took is not sha red by
a l l members of ou r commu n it y. Some wor r ied t hat t h is wa s much more t ha n a pol ic y decision : t hey felt it wa s a d i lut ion of ou r m ission or even a t h reat to ou r Cat hol ic ident it y,” t hey w rote. For t Way ne-Sout h Bend bishop Kev i n R hoades w rote a let ter i n November ca l l i ng on t he Col lege to reverse its decision. R hoades cr it ici zed t he Boa rd a nd Conboy for not consu lt i ng h i m i n t he decision. T he reversa l comes a f ter R hoades met w it h Conboy a nd Sr. M. Veron ique, president of t he Sisters of t he Holy Cross, to ta l k about t he ad m issions pol ic y cha nge. see ADMISSIONS PAGE 3
ND alum delivers MLK Day speech
PETER BREEN | The Observer
ND Law School alumna Kimberly Esmond Adams spoke at the Century Center Monday in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. By PETER BREEN Associate News Editor
Notre Dame alumna Kimberly Esmond Adams delivered the keynote address, and University President Fr. John Jenkins was recognized for community service during a celebration for the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday in downtown South Bend Monday. Adams, who has served on the trial bench in Fulton
ND SPORTS PAGE 12
County, Georgia since 2009, recalled being part of a group of African American students that successfully petitioned Notre Dame Law School dean David Link to add an elective class in critical race theory to the law school curriculum in 1997 — well before the theory became a hot-button political issue. Critical race theory, Adams said, is an academic and legal see MLK PAGE 3
M HOCKEY PAGE 12
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TODAY
THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
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“Sleeping in.”
“Went to a passion conference.”
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webmaster@ndsmcobserver.com Policies The Observer is the independent, daily newspaper published in print and online by the students of the University of Notre Dame du Lac, Saint Mary’s College and Holy Cross College. Editorial content, including advertisements, is not governed by policies of the administration of any institution. The Observer reserves the right to refuse advertisements based on content. The news is reported as accurately and objectively as possible. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the majority of the Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor, Assistant Managing Editors and department editors. Commentaries, letters and columns present the views of the authors and not necessarily those of The Observer. Viewpoint space is available to all readers. The free expression of all opinions through letters is encouraged. Letters to the Editor must be signed and must include contact information. Questions regarding Observer policies should be directed to Editor-in-Chief Maggie Eastland. Post Office Information The Observer (USPS 599 2-4000) is published Monday through Friday except during exam and vacation periods. A subscription to The Observer is $130 for one academic year; $75 for one semester. The Observer is published at: 024 South Dining Hall Notre Dame, IN 46556-0779 Periodical postage paid at Notre Dame and additional mailing offices POSTMASTER Send address corrections to: The Observer P.O. Box 779 024 South Dining hall Notre Dame, IN 46556-077
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SOFIA CRIMIVAROLI | The Observer
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish men’s soccer team celebrating after winning the NCAA College Cup semifinals in Lousiville 1-0 against the Oregon State Beavers. The team went on to play Clemson in the final, losing 2-1, falling short of the national title.
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Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Workshop: “1,000 Cut Journey” 231 Hesburgh Library 10 a.m - 4 p.m. Immersive VR experience.
“Walking with Children Impacted by Mass Incarceration” Geddes Hall 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Panel discussion.
“On James Baldwin” Jenkins Nanovic 1030 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Guest lecture by Dartmouth professor Melvin Rogers.
“Oppenheimer” Browning Cinema 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Screenings of the blockbuster all weekend.
Start of the Semester Open House 114 Spes Unica Hall 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Stop in for free treats.
DEI Lightning Talks 104 Bond Hall 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Short research talks hosted by the Graduate School.
Public Domain Day 231A Hesburgh Library 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Viewing of “Steamboat Willie” with popcorn and discussion.
ASHE: A Celebration of Voices Leighton Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. Featuring local groups and performers.
Sunday
Basilica Mass Basilica of the Sacred Heart 10 a.m. Join others for morning mass. Club Gingerbread House Competition Rice Commons 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. Gingerbread houses provided for clubs.
NEWS
NDSMCOBSERVER.COM | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | THE OBSERVER
Residential life associate VP vacancy filled Observer Staff Report
The University announced Thursday Karen Kennedy was appointed associate vice president for residential life, effective 2024 spring. She replaces Heather Rakoczy Russell, whose 12-year tenure as associate vice president for residential life ended Sept. 15. Kennedy has been a senior advisor to the executive vice president since early 2022. This
Admissions CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Uproa r to t he pol ic y cha nge a rose la st mont h fol low i ng a n a r t icle i n T he
MLK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
semester Kennedy chaired the working group that recommended the University ban the operation of electric scooters on campus. In her new role, Kennedy shall oversee 33 undergraduate communities, Notre Dame’s oncampus graduate communities and residential master planning. Kennedy earned her bachelor’s degree from Notre Dame in 2003 and has previously worked for the University in student affairs
and for ND Innovates. “I am thrilled that she will return to the division of student affairs to strategically and thoughtfully lead a team that supports student belonging, helps students to integrate their academic and social lives, and encourages students to cultivate their gifts, talents and interests at Notre Dame and beyond,” vice president for student affairs Fr. Gerard Olinger said in a news release.
Obser ver a nd a socia l med ia post f rom t he ca mpus g roup Tu r n i ng Poi nt USA . “We clea rly u nderest i mated ou r com mu n it y ’s genui ne desi re to be engaged i n t he process of shapi ng
a pol ic y of such sig n i f ica nce,” Conboy a nd Sm it h w rote. “A s t h is la st mont h u n folded, we lost people’s t r ust a nd u n i ntent iona l ly created d iv ision where we had hoped for u n it y.”
framework developed by legal scholars following the civil rights movement in response to the false notion that society is colorblind. “Little did we know at that time that this pedagogy would become so controversial,” the judge said. “In fact, I worry today that if a request were made by eager students like us — trying to determine how to use their legal education to be brokers of peace in today’s world, which seems fixated on advancing false narratives — that they might be hung in effigy from the outstretched arms of Touchdown Jesus.” More than 800 people attended the community service recognition breakfast in the Century Center, which was sponsored by Notre Dame, Holy Cross and numerous other community stakeholders.
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South Bend mayor James Mueller and Mishawaka mayor Dave Wood praised Jenkins, who is stepping down as president at the end of the current academic year after 19 years, for engaging with the local community while running one of the world’s preeminent research universities. “You and your students are literally changing the world and have. Sometimes in doing so, it’s easy to overlook the backyard,” Wood said. “But you were a champion of our region, making sure that never happened.” The South Bend mayor highlighted Notre Dame’s involvement in the Northeast Neighborhood Revitalization Organization, which Mueller said has helped stabilize critical sections of the city’s northeast side for residential and commercial investment over the past couple decades. In November, Jenkins spoke to students in professor Jonathan Hannah’s Philanthropy and the Common Good class about the value of community engagement at a ceremony, during which $59,000 was awarded to Michiana nonprofits, Mueller added. “I love the people in this room,” Jenkins said upon receiving the keys to the cities of South Bend and Mishawaka. “I believe in this community, and I believe in its future.” Adams called attention to the writings of two African American creatives, Constance Baker Motley and Stevie Wonder, in her address. Motley, the first African American woman appointed to the federal bench, wrote a poem titled “Listen, Lord From the Slums” as a 15-yearold, Adams said. In the poem, Motley questions whether God made the world because it’s not beautiful or fun. “Even as a teen, Constance was acutely aware that her circumstances simply could not be what God intended for her,” Adams said. Like the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Adams added, Motley would make it her life’s work to stand up for justice and equality in the face of racial and gender barriers that would have caused most to pursue an easier and safer career. In the 1976 hit single “Love’s in Need of Love Today,” Stevie Wonder charged his listeners to send their love in right away because hate is going around breaking many hearts, and it needs to be stopped, Adams said. The breakfast was part of the region’s 38th annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It was organized by the Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation of St. Joseph County in conjunction with Project Impact, South Bend Heritage and the Civil Rights Heritage Center. Contact Peter Breen at pbreen2@nd.edu
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NEWS
THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
Courtesy of The Irish Rover
The Irish Rover included the above door as part of their reporting on Tamara Kay. The judge dismissed claims of defamation about the reporting.
Kay v. Rover CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
I r i s h Rov er s a id p oster s on K ay ’s do or, her ac adem ic w or k , her st atement s a nd s o c i a l me d i a ac t i v it y demon st r ate d t h at s he w a s w i l l i ng to help st udent s acc e s s a b or t ion s. Me a nw h i le, K ay c l a i me d t h at t he w ord “ he a lt hc a r e” a nd t he “J” on her do or w er e i n s pi r e d by a nd r efer r e d on l y to her de si r e to help v ic t i m s of s e x u a l a s s au lt . T he c ou r t r u le d t h at K ay ’s st atement s a nd t he sig n s on her do or ident i f ie d her a s b ot h w i l li ng to help st udent s acc e s s a b or t ion s a nd w i l l i ng to help v ic t i m s of s e x u a l v iolenc e. T he c ou r t s a id t h at t he s e debate d pie c e s of e v idenc e “c a n mo s t r e a s on a bl y me a n to i n fer s omet h i ng muc h br oader t h a n ju st b e i ng a n ad v o c ate for v ic t i m s of s e x u a l a s s au lt .” As t he c ou r t st ate d, “D r. K ay s upp or t s a s si st a nc e for w omen of s e x u a l v iolenc e a nd D r. K ay s upp or t s a b or t ion r ig ht s a nd s upp or t for a b or t ion i n for m at ion a nd ac c e s s.” W h i le K ay h a s t he r ig ht to f re e s p e e c h to m a ke st atement s on a ny top ic, t he c ou r t s a id “t he c onte x t of t he c om mun ic at ion mu st b e determ i ne d i n t he c onte x t of a nu mb er of d i f fer ent f ac tor s.” K ay a l s o e a r l ier m ade t he a r g u ment t h at t he a r t ic le s w er e a “c onc er te d ef for t ” to get her f i r e d, but t he c ou r t fou nd “no e v idenc e t h at T he I r i s h Rov er ’s i ntent ion w hen it pub l i s he d t he a r t ic le s w a s to d a m a ge D r. K ay ’s c a r e er, nor w a s it m a l ic iou s or r e c k le s s.” T he c ou r t a l s o fou nd
t h at t he Syc a mor e Tr u st , t he Not r e Da me c h a p ter of R ig ht to L i fe a nd i nd i v idu a l pr ofe s s or s do not c ont r ol t he I r i s h Rov er. T he c ou r t note d t h at t he O c tob er a r t ic le ment ione d t h at muc h of K ay ’s ef for t to help st udent s obt a i n a b or t ion s er v ic e s w er e f ac i l it ate d t h r ou g h s o c i a l me d i a . T he le g a l pr o c e e d i ng s m ade publ ic K ay ’s t w e et s l i n k i ng to s ou rc e s for Pl a n B a nd Pl a n C pi l l s. Rel at i ng to t he publ i s he d a r t ic le s i n t he I r i s h Rov er, t he c ou r t fou nd t h at w hen D eReu i l w r ote h i s O c tob er 2022 a r t ic le, he “d id not h a r b or a ny doubt s a s to t he me a n i ng a nd t r ut h” of t he i n for m at ion i nd ic ati ng t h at K ay w a s w i l l i ng to help st udent s ac c e s s
a b or t ion s. W hen former p ol it ic s e d itor at t he I r i s h Rov er L u ke T homps on publ i s he d h i s pie c e i n Ma rc h 202 3, t he c ou r t deter m i ne d he h ad “ac c u r atel y quote d a nd s u m m a r i z e d” a l l t he i n for m at ion i n que st ion, i nc lud i ng quote s f rom a C ol le ge Democ r at s me et i ng K ay h ad s p o ken at , a long w it h t he me s s a g i ng on her do or a nd her publ ic st atement s. D eReu i l a nd t he I r i s h Rov er h av e t a ken to X , for mer l y k now a s Tw it ter, a nd t he Rov er ’s w eb site to c elebr ate t hei r v ic tor y i n c ou r t . “I nd i a n a C ou r t a f f i r m s w h at w e at t he I r i s h Rov er k ne w a l l a long — ou r r e p or t i ng on Not r e Da me P r of K ay ’s of fer s to help w it h ‘ac c e s s a nd c o st‘ of a b or t ion w a s b ot h t r ue a nd m ade it go o d f a it h .,” D eReu i l w r ote Mond ay a f ter no on on t he s o c i a l me d i a pl at for m . A n I r i s h Rov er e d ito r i a l publ i s he d Mond ay c l a i me d t h at t he l aw s u it w a s a n at tempt by K ay to “i nt i m id ate u nder g r aduate st udent s” at Not r e Da me f r om r ep or t i ng acc u r atel y on her publ ic me s s a g i ng. “ We hop e,” t he I r i s h Rov er ’s e d itor i a l st a f f w r ote, “t h at t h i s r u l i ng w i l l s er v e to d i s c ou ra ge s uc h ef for t s to c h i l l f r e e s p e e c h i n t he f ut u r e a nd i nv igor ate ot her s to c ou r a ge ou s l y e x erc i s e t hei r r ig ht to f r e e dom of s p e e c h i n pu r s u it of t he t r ut h .” A f t e r t h e c ou r t or d e r w a s r e le a s e d Mond a y, T he Obser ver reached out t o K a y, w h o w a s n ot w i l l i n g t o pr ov id e a n y c om m e nt a t t h e t i m e .
Commencement speaker announced
Courtesy of the University of Notre Dame
Fr. John Jenkins, who will step down as president after the current academic year, was chosen to deliver this year’s commencement address. Observer Staff Report
The Board of Trustees requested that outgoing president, Fr. John Jenkins, deliver this year’s commencement address. He agreed to speak at the Universit y’s 179th Commencement Ceremony in late May, board chair Jack Brennan w rote in an email to the Notre Dame communit y Tuesday. “W hile Notre Dame t y pically selects a distinguished speaker external to the Universit y, we believe at this moment Father Jenkins’s leadership and exemplar y ser v ice to the Universit y make him a most fitting choice, as we recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 and our distinguished facult y,” Brennan w rote. Jenkins announced
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in October that he would step dow n as president at the end of the current academic year after nearly t wo decades. He w ill return to teaching and w riting at the Universit y. In a Tuesday news release, the Universit y recognized Jenkins for leading Notre Dame to become the countr y’s foremost Catholic research institution. “He has brought renewed emphasis to Notre Dame’s distinctive mission, rooted in the tradition of the Congregation of Holy Cross, the Universit y’s founding communit y, to educate the whole person — mind, body and spirit — to do good in the world,” the news release said. This year’s Universit y Commencement Ceremony is scheduled for May 19 at 9 a.m. It can be livestreamed on the ceremony’s webpage.
THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
New Year’s resolution
Is Taylor Swift America’s political anti-hero?
Lara Novaes Victor Diary of an International Student
Ashlyn Poppe BridgeND
I’ve never been much of a New Year’s resolution kind of person. The idea of picking aspects of my life that I want to change and waiting for a specific day to start was just never something that worked for me. Usually, when a new year comes around, the biggest difference for me is that I start messing up the dates in all my papers, official documents and exams. This year, though, as I watched my friends from home meticulously craft their list and create a plan to ensure that they would stick with their resolutions, I decided to give it a try. However, knowing myself and how I would have a hard time sticking with it if they were simply New Year’s resolutions, I decided to divide them into semester goals, share them with some of my friends and document them in this piece so I can’t run away from them. So here are some of the goals I set for myself this semester:
1. Continue with the current issue of my NDID This is one of the most important goals on this list because I am on the sixth issue of my ID, and I am done paying $30 every now and then to get a new one. Don’t even ask how I managed to lose so many IDs — I still have no clue how I did that. But it just goes to show that this is a problem that needs fixing.
2. Drink less Diet Coke Since I arrived at Notre Dame, Diet Coke has been one of my guilty pleasures, not only because it tastes better than the one we have back home, but because whenever one of my friends suggests that we should go get one more cup, it always means that, even though we are done eating, we are going to stay for at least one more hour talking and joking around in the dining hall. However, that led me to consume way too much, so the goal is to cut back on some of it at least.
3. Don’t get more than one milkshake at the milkshake mass Milkshake mass is one of my favorite moments of the week. The combination of music, vibrant energy, quality time with friends and the meaningful homily is just amazing, and the, in my opinion, best milkshake on campus is the cherry on top. However, since a little before Thanksgiving, I’ve been spoiling myself with more than one milkshake per mass, so the goal for this semester is to cut back to a fair amount of only one milkshake.
4. Drink more water This is something my father has been insisting on for my whole life, and I decided that this is the year that I’ll actually start doing it. I’ve set some of those pesky reminders, and have been carrying a reusable water bottle around that I am determined not to lose, so hopefully I will be able to make a habit out of drinking water.
5. Being grateful As a chronic overachiever, I’ve always had an issue with focusing on what is not perfect in my life instead of being grateful for the good things and great people around me. For this reason, the most important goal of the semester is to be more grateful, as well as acknowledge and savor good moments no matter how small they are. Lara is a member of the class of 2026 from Taubaté, Brazil with majors in economics and Chinese. When she is not complaining about the weather, you can find her studying in a random room of O’Shaughnessy with her friends or spending all her flex points in Garbanzo. You can contact Lara by email at lvictor@nd.edu. The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
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“Did you hear my covert narcissism I disguised as altruism — like some kind of congressman?” When you hear the name “Taylor Swift,” what political labels come to mind? Democrat? Progressive? Liberal? Feminist? Although many Americans use politically blue-coded terms to describe the megastar, it is entirely conceivable that some of the population associates Swift with bipartisanship — or does not associate Swift with politics whatsoever. After all, Swift was considered the most bipartisan musician in the country less than a decade ago. This news may come as a surprise and understandably so. In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to separate Swift from her toe-dips into the American political conversation. We live in the digital era. The omnipresence of the internet and social media in our daily lives grants us greater access to our political systems than ever before. Political engagement is quite literally at our fingertips. It is important to note that while the flow of political information online has dramatically increased, so too has the spread of political opinion. This is not an inherently bad thing. However, as the age demographic of internet and social media users becomes younger, we must acknowledge the potential for public figures to exert political influence and shape the political opinions of Americans — young and old. What role, if any, should celebrities play in politics? Taylor Swift broke her political silence in 2018. After years of transcending the political divides in our country, the multi-Grammy award-winning artist took to social media to make her first public political endorsement. In a post urging her followers to vote in the upcoming midterm elections, Swift endorsed Tennessean Democratic candidates Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper for Senate and House of Representatives seats, respectively. Swift captioned the post: “In the past, I’ve been reluctant to publicly voice my political opinions, but due to several events in my life and in the world in the past two years, I feel very different about that now.” Swift also took to social media to condemn the actions of former President Donald Trump. After remaining silent during the 2016 presidential election, she boldly tweeted in 2020: “After stoking the fires of white supremacy and racism your entire presidency, you have the nerve to feign moral superiority before threatening violence? … We will vote you out in November.” Once notorious for her apoliticism, Swift is slowly abandoning her leftright equipoise. In October 2022, Swift released a music video to accompany her hit “Anti-Hero.” In addition to lyrics explicitly criticizing the performative activism of members of Congress, or “covert narcissism [they] disguised as altruism,” Swift dons a political pin that reads “Vote for me for everything.” If it was not clear enough already, Swift is not afraid to share her political opinion from time to time — a cause for both great hope and great concern as we head into 2024. Flash forward to today: Swift has left behind a more-or-less subtle trail of liberal breadcrumbs for fans and critics alike to pick apart. Swift’s cultural dominance has withstood the test of time,
but her ability to indulge both the conservative and liberal members of her fanbase is a thing of the past. In fact, it is becoming more and more difficult for Swift to fully satisfy even her progressive supporters. As the saying goes: damned if you do, damned if you don’t. An anti-hero is defined as the main character of a story, but one who does not act like a typical hero. When it comes to politics, it is impossible to satisfy everyone even with the best intentions. Swift is operating under a merciless microscope — the motive for any political action that she takes will be carefully questioned and criticized. Swift can undoubtedly sway political opinions, but she will struggle to be perceived as a heroine as long as she continues to make enemies on both sides of the aisle. Currently, Swift is stuck between a rock and a hard place. Swift’s decisions to endorse democratic candidates and proudly support the LGBTQ+ community have appeased many of her progressive supporters over the years, but have also unleashed a new set of haters. While she is no stranger to backlash for publicly expressing her left-leaning views, many of her progressive fans remain disappointed in her silence on other contemporary political issues. While Taylor Swift may be America’s political anti-hero, fans and haters alike must recognize her global influence and soft political power in the United States. After all, there are tangible examples of her impact. On National Voter Registration Day in 2023, Swift was intent on galvanizing her social media followers to register to vote. Swift shared a link to Vote.org, a non-profit voting registration platform and organization that she has partnered with in the past. Vote.org recorded more than 35,000 new registrations after the post went live. Additionally, the number of 18 year olds that registered doubled the amount that did in 2022. When Swift speaks, her fans listen. As we look ahead to the 2024 presidential election, public figures like Taylor Swift could play a crucial role in mobilizing voters and increasing youth voter turnout. California governor Gavin Newsom labeled Swift’s political influence as “profoundly powerful,” especially her ability to inspire young people to “consider that they have a voice and they should have a voice in the next election.” As we look ahead to the 2024 presidential election, we must be careful to avoid underestimating the impact of Swift and her hundreds of millions of followers on the political conversation in our country. I, for one, am eager to see if Swift will decide to ditch political toe-dipping and play a more active role come November. Ashlyn Poppe is a third-year student living in Pasquerilla West Hall studying global affairs and public service. She currently serves as the President of BridgeND. BridgeND is a multi-partisan political club committed to bridging the partisan divide through respectful and productive discourse. It meets bi-weekly on Mondays at 7 p.m. in Duncan Student Center Meeting Room 1, South W106 to learn about and discuss current political issues, and can be reached at bridgend@nd.edu or on Twitter @bridge_ND. The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
INSIDE COLUMN
A love letter to what makes me who I am and who I hope to be Christina Sayut Graphics Editor
W hen t he clock st r i kes m id n ig ht on Ja n. 1, t he t rad it ion of ma k i ng resolut ion s becomes t he foc u s of a l most ever yone I have ever met. T h is desi re for a f resh st a r t a nd t he need for “rei nvent ion” of ten lead s to a mbit iou s decla rat ion s of cha nge — shedd i ng old habit s, adopti ng hea lt h ier l i fest yles a nd overa l l pu rsu i ng a rad ica l t ra n sfor mat ion. I have never rea l ly been one for resolut ion s. I f i nd t hat a s much a s I va lue ma k i ng l ist s a nd schedu l i ng my G oog le Ca lenda r, I have a ha rd t i me st ick i ng to t hese i m men se habit s t hat a re supposed to sudden ly ma ke my l i fe bet ter t ha n ever before. W henever I have t r ied to ma ke t he resolut ion s t hat a re supposed to rei nvent me, t he cook ie cr u mbles before I even get to Febr ua r y. Ref lec t i ng on my la st yea r, I fou nd t hat my happi ness a nd g row t h wa s not fou nd i n my day-to-day l i fe. T he joy t hat I felt ca me f rom t he people a rou nd me a nd i n hobbies t hat I picked up on ly w hen I needed to. I n stead of tel l i ng you about a l l of t he new t h i ngs t hat I a m goi ng to add to my l i fe t h is yea r, t h is colu m n is a love let ter to so ma ny d i f ferent pa r t s of 2023 t hat have helped me l ive t he f u l f i l l i ng l i fe t hat I a m l iv i ng today (a nd how I wa nt to keep it up t h is yea r). At t he fou ndat ion of my ident it y is t he u nwaver i ng suppor t a nd love f rom my fa m i ly. I f you fou nd me wa l k i ng to cla ss, t he odd s t hat I wa s on t he phone w it h eit her my mom or dad were i ncred ibly h ig h. A sk me w hat I d id over a ny brea k, a nd I g ua ra ntee you I made t i me to v isit Greene Cou nt y, Pen n s ylva n ia, a nd see my ex tended fa m i ly ( H i g uy s, I’m su re you a re read i ng t h is, a nd I love you). I a lso probably showed you photos of Evee, E l l ie a nd Edee
w h i le I wa s at it. For a s long a s I ca n remember, my big gest i n spi rat ion ha s been my brot her. I have been able to go t h roug h l i fe k now i ng t hat at a ny hou r, I cou ld ca l l a ny member of my fa mi ly a nd a ny t h i ng I cou ld ever need wou ld get done for me. My fa m i ly ha s show n me how to be i ndependent a nd st rong , but not w it hout u nderst a nd i ng t he i mpor t a nce of com mu n it y. My resolut ion is to a lway s remember t he love a nd suppor t t hat my fa m i ly ha s cont i nuou sly g iven me. I ended 2023 w it h a per fec t com mu n it y of f r iend s at my side. A s a cer t i f ied g i rl ie w ho loves to yap, word s ca n not ex press how g ratef u l I a m for ever y si ng le person w ho enter t a i n s my si l ly I n st ag ra m DMs or ra ndom messages of w hatever I a m t h i n k i ng about at t he t i me. I have fou nd f r iend sh ip i n so ma ny places on ca mpu s — Lyon s Ha l l, t he ba sement of Sout h Di n i ng Ha l l, R i ley Ha l l of A r t & Desig n a nd boxi ng prac t ice. I have been so for t u nate to spend my t i me su r rou nded by each a nd ever y one of you (i f you a re read i ng t h is a nd wonder i ng i f I a m t h i n k i ng about you, I g ua ra ntee you t hat I a m). Ever y lu nch date, d i n ner date a nd ra ndom wa l k a rou nd t he la ke mea n s more to me t ha n I cou ld ever say. I wou ld a lso l i ke to t a ke a moment to t ha n k M ichael, my boy f r iend ( H i ! I love you ! ). T ha n k you for pick i ng up ever y phone ca l l a nd helpi ng me t a l k t h roug h pret t y much ever y t h i ng. I a m u nbel ievably g ratef u l for you r u nwaver i ng suppor t i n pu rsu i ng my pa ssion s, rem i nd i ng me t hat I a m st rong enoug h to face a ny t h i ng. My resolut ion is to foc u s on t hese bond s, creat i ng a space w here my f r iend s a nd I ca n a l l celebrate each ot her’s successes a nd cont i nue to l i f t each ot her up. Towa rd t he end of la st yea r, I pr ior it i zed bei ng creat ive for no rea son ot her t ha n I wa nted to. A s a n a r t a nd desig n st udent, so much of my work end s up bei ng for g rades. I let my sel f fa l l back i n love w it h t he idea of ma k i ng a r t a nd
mu sic for my sel f, a nd it ha s been one of t he most rela x i ng pa r t s of my day. My cera m ic prac t ice ha s become a met aphor for my approach to l ivi ng — a slow process t hat va lues t he jou r ney a s much a s t he dest i nat ion. T he med it at ive qua lit y of bei ng w it h t he clay centers me, a l low i ng me to see t he beaut y i n i mper fec t ion a nd a lso be able to l i ne up my pieces a nd see how fa r I have come i n ju st a couple of yea rs. P ick i ng up my g u it a r a f ter yea rs of not play i ng it ha s a lso been a prac t ice t hat ha s broug ht me peace over t he la st sea son of my l i fe. I’ve been able to sit dow n a f ter a long day a nd st r u m a few chord s, w it h no need to per for m for a nyone else but mysel f. A long w it h my n ig ht t i me g u it a r session s, I cha l lenge my sel f to solve cross word pu z z les a nd ot her log ic ga mes t hat a re i n t he book s I pick up f rom Wa lg reen s. Solv i ng t hese pu z z les a l low s me to slow dow n at t he end of t he day a nd foc u s on lea r n i ng i n a way t hat isn’t related to my schoolwork . My resolut ion is to cont i nue my hobbies t hat a re ju st for me, g iv i ng my sel f a way to w rap up my day s. A s I approached t he new yea r a nd t he idea of ma k i ng new resolut ion s, I k new t hat I wa nted to empha si ze t he pa r t s of my l i fe t hat I k now ma ke me happy. T h is yea r, I a m no longer cha si ng t he elu sive idea of a “new me,” but i n stead I’m goi ng to foc u s on seei ng my l i fe f rom a la rger perspec t ive a nd not ju st t he t i ny ever yday habit s t hat I have never had before. Don’t get me w rong , I w i l l st i l l cont i nue to ma ke hot-or-not l ist s a nd pick up sma l l habit s here a nd t here. However, my goa l for t he yea r is to t a ke i n ever y moment of my la st semester of col lege a nd look for wa rd to my post-g raduate l i fe w it h a n open m i nd. I’ve been lov i ng my l i fe lately, a nd I k now it is goi ng to st ay t hat way.
You can contact Christina at csayut@nd.edu The views expressed in this Inside column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
IN DEFENSE OF ‘MAESTRO’: A MISUNDERSTOOD TRIUMPH By LUKE FOLEY Scene Writer
Every year, cinephiles pick a movie or actor during the awards season to vilify and root against. This year, the honor has been bestowed upon Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro.” While it received generally positive reviews, any praise has been drowned out by vehement criticism: It’s Oscar bait, a vanity project, a bombastic mess and reveals little to nothing about its titular Maestro, Leonard Bernstein. Well, I’m here to defend it against these complaints and herald it as one of the best films of 2023. “Maestro” is a bold, idiosyncratic film. Instead of a biopic that’s structured like a Wikipedia page, Cooper fully delved into the inner workings of Bernstein and the internal struggles and motivations that guided his life. Bernstein was a man who was a prisoner to dichotomies: composing versus conducting, classical music versus musical theater, celebrity versus artist and heterosexuality versus homosexuality. His entire life was an exhausting battle trying to balance all these aspects of his life and genius while having society constantly trying to box him into b eing just one thing; his love for music and life knew no limit but was nevertheless limited by the world. Cooper’s exploration of this perennial tension in Bernstein’s life is fascinating and a brilliant angle for a biopic. I don’t agree with the complaints about this not effectively informing the viewer about Leonard Bernstein’s life. I felt like I walked away understanding the man, at least the version presented in the film, in a
very intimate manner, one I couldn’t have gotten with a cursory overview of his achievements. At the center of this film is Bernstein’s marriage with Felicia Montealegre (Carey Mulligan): a marriage that is simultaneously intense and romantic, yet flawed and enigmatic. Due to Cooper and Mulligan’s incredible on-screen chemistry, you are immediately transfixed by Bernstein and Felicia’s strong connection. However, once they enter married life, tension and ambiguity linger around Bernstein’s sexuality and Felicia’s tolerance for his celebrity status and affairs. The film doesn’t try to give any clear answers about the inner workings of their marriage. Their relationship was highly complex and mystifying, and Cooper respects this reality. However, this is a strength of the movie, as it fully leans into the mystery of love and marriage and how they can withstand periods of strife and turbulence. The film’s musings on marriage are challenging and bold, and despite being a period piece, feel refreshingly modern. Bernstein and Felicia drift from one another during the film’s second act. However, they reconcile after Bernstein’s performance of Gustav Mahler’s “Resurrection Symphony,” which is the apotheosis of the film. Cooper gives an exhilarating performance, fully baring his soul on stage while passionately conducting some of the most beautiful classical music you’ll ever hear. The scene concludes with a slow tracking shot ending with Felicia entering the frame as she proudly watches him. He then runs right to her after the piece is over and gives her a loving embrace, exemplifying how she is the center of his life and his greatest inspiration and
confidant. This scene also demonstrates another of the film’s strengths: its prominent use of Bernstein’s music. I know his music being featured is an obvious certainty since the film is about him. Still, the film’s smart use of his brilliant compositions and conducted pieces adds so much gravity and weight to every scene. Moreover, “Maestro” is a beautiful and sumptuous-looking film. Featuring both black and white and color photography, shifting aspect ratios and elaborate shots, its direction and cinematography most certainly call attention to itself. Some have viewed the stylish visuals as ostentatious, but I feel that is an unfair critique. Yes, Cooper and cinematographer Matthew Libatique take lots of big swings here, but that’s a good thing! I want an ambitious, earnest director who constantly strives to impress and awe and frequently succeeds at doing just that! This film is gorgeous and superbly directed; there is nothing pretentious or hollow about it. “Maestro” is a film that is certainly not for everyone, and if you don’t like it, that is fine. I am not saying this film is perfect and immune from criticism; I think the movie becomes a little inert in the second act. However, for me, this is a stunning and moving exploration of celebrity and marriage. Bradley Cooper has proven to be incredibly formidable behind the camera. Since it seems like he won’t be winning any Oscars for “Maestro” this year, I can’t wait to see what crazy, extravagant project he will embark on next in his endless quest to finally win one. it. Contact Luke Foley at lfoley2@nd.edu
IF 2023 WAS A BOOKSHELF By MAGGIE EASTLAND Editor-in-Chief
As January dawned a little over a year ago, I decided that I wanted to read one book a month, outside of classroom obligations. For most of these books, I carefully copied down my favorite passages to them even more. In the rearview mirror, the year is messily marked up and annotated by what I was reading. It’s a delightfully human feeling.
January: “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt Reading this book felt like scrolling through a dark academia Pinterest board. If that’s what you’re looking for, go for it. “There is nothing wrong with the love of Beauty. But Beauty — unless she is wed to something more meaningful — is always superficial.” Although I found Tartt’s vocabulary and prose quite eloquent, the storyline itself didn’t surprise or inspire me. Don’t get me wrong, I couldn’t predict every twist and turn, but the story seemed just a bit unoriginal. It’s the old tale of hubris. But even with its potential for predictability, it’s still worth a read.
February: “Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow Pop culture seems very interested in the ’20s through the ’90s. Historical fiction and popular TV shows cover these decades extensively. Yet
the turn of the 20th century is often left behind. But we might have a lot to learn from these years. A breakfast of champagne before a polar expedition? That sounds not unlike a $9 iced coffee before asking ChatGPT to write a cover letter. In moments like these, exploration and innovation can seem to have lost their wonder. Or as Doctorow writes: “Houdini escaped. The old theatre people went wild. He was unsatisfied.” In this spinning tale, Doctorow afflicts the reader with the palpable excitement, terror, magic and superficiality of the first years of the 1 900s. The world is changing. Man can now venture to the North Pole, make himself a banking icon or gain global acclaim through escape acts. But he still cannot conquer himself. “Across America sex and death were barely distinguishable.” “I am often asked the question How can the masses permit themselves to be exploited by the few. The answer is By being persuaded to identify with them.” Glittering gold seems to drape over every aspect of life, but it won’t conceal interior dissatisfaction. In the end, this book is aptly named. The characters, plot and narration join together in a chaotic ragtime tune. There is really no better way to describe it.
March: “The Perfume Collector” by Kathleen Tessaro When I opened this book, I was expecting a run-ofthe-mill historical fiction novel catered to women. You know the type. But this story had more depth than I initially anticipated. Reading it just might change the way you think about scent. It is one of those perceptions that is difficult to put into words without sounding at least a little over the top, but Tessaro is up to the challenge. “I cannot bear that everyone smells alike. It’s vulgar!” “These coarse natural odors — filthy hair, pungent skin, unwashed women — they’re the root of everything — of our disgrace and desire.”
April: “Proslogion” by Anselm of Canterbury Call it unconventional, but as I grew weary in this month near the end of my junior year, this was the only book I read of my own accord. It is a short read, but a wonderfully challenging exercise in logic and prayer. No matter where you stand theologically, I think this text has something to offer. At the very least, it is an opportunity to consider higher things and divine powers. “Let me seek thee in longing, let me long for thee in seeking; let me find thee in love and love thee in finding.” Read more online at ndsmcobserver.com. Contact Maggie Eastland at meastlan@nd.edu TREY PAINE | The Observer
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SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
SPORTS COLUMN
Why aren’t Irish fans proud of Tommy Rees? By RYAN PETERS Managing Editor
In the wake of Nick Saban’s retirement, four names cracked the shortlist for what’s simultaneously the most attractive and most undesirable job in college football. Oregon’s Dan Lanning, Florida State’s Mike Norvell and Washington’s Kalen DeBoer all unsurprisingly made the list as three of the brightest head coaches in the sport. But one more name remained on the list. A coach with zero head coaching experience, and who, at age 31, would have been the youngest head coach of any Division I FBS team if hired. That name was Tommy Rees. The same Tommy Rees who was forced to come in and save the day several times during Notre Dame’s undefeated 2012 regular season. The guy who, believe it or not, is third all-time in passing touchdowns and fourth in passing yards in program history. The guy who helped lead Notre Dame to the College Football Playoff in his first year as offensive coordinator and groomed Ian Book into the winningest quarterback in Notre Dame history. To have this track record at one of the most historic college football programs is undeniably impressive — not to mention he began coaching here at the age of 24. Yet Rees has been at the receiving end of more undeserved hate than anybody I can think of in the Notre Dame football discourse. The way many of us treat Rees is embarrassing to our fanbase. As a player and coach, Rees played
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by the same margin w ith under 2:15 left, the Comets rallied to pull even on a three-pointer by Clara Shoales w ith 26 seconds remaining. The teams traded baskets immediately after, and Olivet had a chance to w in in regulation after a late turnover. A steal at the buzzer by freshman guard Kate Restov ich sent the game to overtime. Comets guard Lily Connelly took over in the extra session, outscoring the Belles all by herself to lead Olivet to an 81-74 v ictor y. However, Saint Mar y’s would end break on a
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the evening. The Irish added three more across the final two periods of play to put a bow on the 5-2 victory. Graduate student forward Patrick Moynihan slammed home a one-time feed from freshman forward Cole Knuble to give the Irish the lead for good with
a large role in navigating Notre Dame out of the program’s two lowest points in the 2010s. If you dislike Rees because of his 2012 arrest, then, sure, that’s a valid reason. But, anecdotally speaking, I haven’t heard Rees’ behavior at an off-campus party come up during evaluations of Drew Pyne and Tyler Buchner’s 2022 performance. If you dislike Rees because he left for Alabama, I have bad news for you. Generally speaking, when someone is offered a job at the most successful organization in its industry, where their mentor is the greatest of all time in their profession, it’s probably a good idea to accept said job. Plus, Rees had already stayed for the first year of Marcus Freeman’s tenure to help steady the ship. If our fanbase was so willing to embrace Sam Hartman after what was essentially a disappointing one-year contract, it’s hard to comprehend the hatred toward Rees — whom longtime fans watched grow up in front of our eyes. He’s faced some impossibly difficult situations as a player and coach at Notre Dame. Yet he’s owned up to his mistakes and succeeded in almost every situation. During Rees’ freshman year, he took over midseason after Dayne Crist suffered a season-ending injury against Tulsa. The freshman quarterback took over the reins of a 4-5 team and led the Irish on a four-game winning streak to end the season. In 2012, the Irish wouldn’t have made the national championship without him. Despite the embarrassment of the suspension and
high note. After inclement weather postponed their contest w ith Adrian to Jan. 15, the Belles squeaked out a 71-68 w in. A 31-point second quarter was the catalyst for the w in. The Belles won despite Adrian shooting slightly better from the f loor and w ithout w inning key categories like rebounds, turnovers and blocks. As the spring semester starts, the Belles currently hold a record of 6-11 and are 3-5 in MI A A play. Their next game is on Jan. 17 at 7: 00 p.m. at home against A lbion. Contact Andrew McGuinness at amcguinn@nd.edu
6:52 remaining in the second. Then late in the frame, Slaggert struck for another, twisting off the post and tucking the puck past Eberly’s far pad. The powerplay marker was Slaggert’s 15th of the season, tying him for fifth nationally in goals. Graduate student forward Trevor Janicke iced the game for Notre Dame in the third. Freshman
awkwardness of being booed at Notre Dame Stadium during the Purdue game, Rees got the job done then and every other time he was called on. Given the state of the program after the Charlie Weis era, Rees did an incredible job of ensuring the Irish avoided what could have been a disastrous start to the Brian Kelly era after the Crist injury. Rees finished his career as a starting quarterback with a 23-8 record (.742). For reference, Brady Quinn finished his career with a 29-17 record (.630). Now let’s switch over to his coaching career at Notre Dame (for the record, we should definitely not consider it complete), which also started under some of the most adverse circumstances of 21st-century Notre Dame football. Following the 4-8 season in 2016, Kelly brought on the 24-yearold Rees as quarterbacks coach. What happened next? The Irish went 10-3 in 2017. Then Book, just a 3-star recruit like Rees, led the Irish to two College Football Playoff appearances in 2018 and 2020. The latter season was Rees’ first year as offensive coordinator. To put this in perspective: In Gerad Parker’s first year as coordinator, Notre Dame lost three games. You can complain about Rees’ recruiting all you want. But he won more with his quarterbacks than recent Notre Dame coaches did with highly touted signal-callers. For whatever reason, many Irish fans were eager to show Rees the door when he left for Alabama.
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Grace Adams led the way with 15 points, while sophomore forward Carly Spradling had 13 off the bench. The Saints then traveled to St. Mary’s College to take on the Belles. The meeting was the third time the two tri-campus programs have played one another in a nonconference game. The Belles secured the program’s first win against the Saints, winning 78-75. The game was also the closest result between the two programs. The Saints won 106-57 in 2022 and 70-55 the year prior. The Saints continued conference play with a win over
forward Brennan Ali forced a turnover in the Buckeye end and found Janicke for a one-timer in the slot. The three-goal lead all but put the game away. Bischel stopped 30 of 32 for the Irish,
If the offense’s performances in big games under Parker didn’t convince you that we took Rees for granted, there’s more. From 2010 to 2016, Notre Dame averaged 29.5 points per game. With Rees on staff from 2017-2022, the Irish averaged 33.8 points per game. OK, fine, maybe the 4-point increase isn’t convincing for you. Then I’ll leave it at this. The greatest college football coach of all time wanted him as his offensive coordinator. There’s a lot I don’t know. But I do know this: Nick Saban knows more about football than you and I do. Saban called Rees “one of the best coaches in college football” in an ESPN interview ahead of this year’s playoff. So why aren’t we proud of him? Nobody ever has anything nice to say about a former Notre Dame quarterback who has risen the coaching ranks faster than 99.9% of coaches. He’s been hand-selected by two of the top-five winningest active (until this week) coaches. But what happens when Alabama botches a snap in the Rose Bowl against Michigan (of all schools)? Notre Dame fans rush to laugh at Rees on social media because his offense came up short on the big stage. Never mind the fact he rescued an offense and led it to an SEC Championship while we Notre Dame fans were stuck watching our rental quarterback stand on the sideline as if he were a celebrity after opting out of the Sun Bowl. Never mind the fact Rees was on the shortlist for the most-coveted job in the sport at age 31. I don’t care how you feel about
Tommy Rees, believe it or not. There’s a lesson here. Our unrealistic expectations for Notre Dame football and knee-jerk reactions prevent us from appreciating what we have. Often we may give up on coaches and players too early. Heck, Troy, a very solid program, thinks Gerad Parker has the chops to be its head coach. It’s easy to be Hartman and waltz on to campus given the current state of the program. Disappointment looks like a 9-3 season. Genuine embarrassment and humiliation are almost impossible. Meanwhile, Rees enrolled with a new coach taking over a sputtering program. He thrived after being thrown in midseason as a freshman for a struggling team. Despite humiliation and vitriol from the fanbase, he not only stuck through it and helped lead the team to a BCS Championship appearance but even later returned to play a pivotal role in returning the Irish to national relevance. He refused a chance to follow the coach who hired him to a program with more resources and recent success and instead helped Freeman build his program. Notre Dame fans love to throw out the term “Notre Dame man” when talking about football players. But that term bears little weight if we can’t reciprocate the effort and respect they pour into our program and University.
St. Francis 74-53 to improve to a 4-2 CCAC record. However, the Saints would fall in their next game when they traveled to Bourbonnais, Illinois, to face Olivet Nazarene. The Tigers shot lights out across the board. They hit 44 of 87 field goal attempts while going 18 of 39 from beyond the three-point line. The Saints struggled to keep pace, going 6-25 from three while shooting below 40% from the field, falling 113-71. The team concluded its action over the break with a dominant defensive showing against the Judson Eagles. The Saints did not allow a Judson basket until the 1:02 mark for the first quarter and, by that time, had already
scored 21 points. In total, the Saints had 19 steals and 7 blocks. Adams accounted for 4 steals, 3 blocks and 7 rebounds while leading the team in points with 16. The team finished on cruise control, winning 77-33. With the win over Judson, the Saints are now 8-8 on the year with a conference record of 5-3. They sit in fifth place in the CCAC, half a game back of IU Northwest. The team will be back in action at the Pfeil Center, continuing conference action when they host Governors State on Jan. 17. Tip-off is slated for 5:30 p.m.
while Eberly made 38 saves on 43 shots for Ohio State. Notre Dame will return to campus this weekend for a four-game homestand, separated by a bye next weekend. The Irish play host to
Penn State this Friday and Saturday, and return with a series against No. 7 Michigan State on Feb. 2 and 3.
Contact Ryan Peters at rpeters5@nd.edu. The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
Contact Tom Zwiller at tzwiller@hcc-nd.edu
Contact Tyler Reidy at treidy3@nd.edu
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DAILY
NDSMCOBSERVER.COM | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | THE OBSERVER
CROSSWORD | WILL SHORTZ
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HOROSCOPE | EUGENIA LAST Happy Birthday: Choose intelligence over force. Look for opportunities to improve your life and future. Say no to anyone who tries to talk you into something you don’t want to pursue. Life is too short to give in to those who want to make decisions for you. Focus on your needs, wants and goals, and you’ll find your desired happiness. Trust your judgment. Your numbers are 7, 13, 22, 26, 31, 37, 45. ARIES (March 21-April 19): Look inward and adjust your lifestyle and goals to suit your needs. Refuse to waste your time arguing or let anyone bully you into something you don’t want to pursue. Listen to your heart and take the path to personal gain and happiness. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Invest in yourself, learn and expand your awareness. Push to ensure your efforts lead to fulfillment. Use your imagination and call on experts and people you trust to broaden your perspective regarding something that can help you expand your interests and income. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Change begins with you. Don’t rely on others to finish what you start. Be secretive regarding your plans until you have everything up and running. Don’t take a chance when your reputation is at stake. CANCER ( June 21-July 22): Refuse to let an emotional incident stand in your way. Your mission is to follow through with your plans, embrace what life offers, and use your intelligence and energy to set yourself up for success. Don’t be shy; do your thing and flourish. LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22): Keep life simple. Take care of yourself first. Honing your skills or learning something new will encourage you to upgrade to help get ahead. Networking events will allow you to expand your interests and make new allies. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Sharing personal information or feelings will lead to vulnerability. Choose to make your home less of a burden and significantly more functional. Time is money, and working through chores and taking care of responsibilities will lead to more leisure time. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Be observant, avoid trouble and don’t pick sides if an argument erupts. Strive for peace, walk the fence and focus on opportunities rather than trying to change others. Recognize your downfalls, and search for solutions that are quick and tidy. The less fuss, the better. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Update everything. Details and prep work will enhance an outcome. Reach out to people you respect for taking responsibility when necessary and form a network you can count on for backup. Don’t gamble with your health or money. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Consider your intentions, be honest and tidy up loose ends. Free up your time and follow your dreams. Opportunities await your discovery, and positive change is within reach. Personal growth, romance and updating your image will boost confidence. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A direct approach is best. Don’t be shy; find out who is interested in your plans. A positive change at home will make your life easier and encourage you to go after your goals. Don’t buy into someone else’s plan; do your own thing. AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Look at all aspects of a situation before responding. Offering something that has potential will position you for success. An opportunity to turn an idea into a profit is apparent if you reach out to people with something to contribute. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Refuse to let your emotions filter into a situation that requires patience and professionalism. Be direct, stick to the facts and clarify what you intend to offer. A peaceful exchange will encourage future possibilities. Pay attention to detail. Birthday Baby: You are decisive, effective and passionate. You are comprehensive and reliable.
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SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
SMC BASKETBALL
Winter break recap: Saint Mary’s basketball By ANDREW McGUINNESS Sports Editor
Saint Mar y’s basketball was neither as hot as a fireplace over the holidays nor as cold as the South Bend weather during w inter break. Instead, the Belles had a pedestrian performance over the last month, hovering around .500 during the holiday season. The Belles went into their Christmas break on a high note, w inning their final two games before a 10-day break. Saint Mar y’s won a 78-75 nail-biter over Holy Cross on Dec. 17 to snap a six-game losing skid that began exactly one month
ND Sports CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
triumph. Senior forward and captain Landon Slaggert netted two goals in the win, bringing his team-leading goal total to 15.
Swimming & Diving Competing for the first time in over a month, the Irish went 3-1 in a home tri-meet with Navy and Princeton. The 12th-ranked Notre Dame men swept the Jan. 12-13 get-together, topping Navy 219134, and Princeton 218-135. Junior Chris Guiliano captured both the 50 and 100 free while the Irish went 1-2-3 in the 100 back. Sophomore Dillon Edge also won the 200 fly to go with a 3-meter victory from sophomore diver Daniel Knapp. Meanwhile, the Irish women went 1-1, handling the Midshipmen 291-62, but losing to the Tigers, 187-166. Junior Madelyn Christman swam the fastest 200 back of her career (1:54.07) and took the same stroke’s 100-yard event. Junior Maggie Graves also swam a personal best time, clocking 9:45.27 in a winning 1000 free effort. To round out the individual winners, graduate student Ellie Jew paced the 200 breast while junior diver Calie Brady nabbed the 1-meter springboard title.
Men’s Tennis Winter Break Record: 2-0; Overall Record: 2-0 Ryan Sachire’s group commenced its season Saturday against IUPUI, sweeping a pair of matches (7-0, 4-0). Freshman Chase Thompson and sophomore Evan Lee set the tone in both competitions, sweeping No. 2 doubles and teeing up the top pair of sophomore Sebastian Dominko and senior Jean-Marc Malkowski to secure each doubles point. In singles play, Notre Dame did not officially lose any individual sets, marching to a dominant day against the Jaguars. Contact Tyler Reidy at treidy3@nd.edu
prior. Dow n a point w ith 90 seconds left, a pair of clutch baskets by senior for ward Athena Samson and a late block by junior guard Julia Schutz helped bring home the v ictor y. Five different Belles tallied at least 10 points, w ith Schutz notching 13 off the bench. Saint Mar y’s recorded its first w inning streak of the season by taking dow n Illinois Tech 85-63 two days later. The Belles outscored their opponents in ever y quarter, including by a 39-23 margin during the second half. It was also their first w in this season on the road. Schutz delivered a
season-high 29 points. Even more impressively, she shot 75% while also putting up multiple assists, rebounds, steals and blocks. However, the Belles’ defense took a while to find form when the team returned to play after Christmas. Saint Mar y’s was gashed for 189 points in its two games in the Loras Holiday Tournament against No. 25 Loras and unranked Simpson. The Belles trailed by double digits by halftime in both games and were never able to put together a threatening comeback attempt. Things started well in
2024, though, as the Belles bounced back when they returned home on Jan. 3 to face Kalamazoo. It was also a return to tense late-game action, as the outcome remained in doubt deep into the fourth quarter. Dow n four w ith 2:50 left, the Belles completed the comeback primarily at the foul line. The Belles went 12-15 on free throws, w ith a go-ahead and-one jumper by Schutz as the team’s lone field goal. Kalamazoo didn’t record a field goal in that final 2:50, highlighted by a huge block from Schutz w ith 56 seconds left and the Belles up one. This time, though, the Belles couldn’t build
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on their success. Saint Mar y’s dropped consecutive games to A lma and Olivet. A lma pulled out a 78-51 w in despite shooting worse from the field than the Belles. Turnovers were a major culprit for the defeat, as the Belles coughed up the ball tw ice as much as the Scots. A lma also beat the Belles 38-31 on rebounds and 20-10 on assists. The Olivet game was much closer. Saint Mar y’s led by six points entering the fourth quarter thanks to a dominant second quarter when it outscored the Comets 20-9. Trailing see BELLES PAGE 8
SPORTS
NDSMCOBSERVER.COM | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | THE OBSERVER
11
HCC BASKETBALL
Winter break recap: Holy Cross basketball By TOM ZWILLER Senior Sports Writer
Over the break, Holy Cross men’s and women’s basketball played a mix of conference and non-conference matchups. Here’s how they did. Men’s Basketball The Holy Cross men’s basketball team started the break playing IU Northwest. The Red Hawks jumped out to a quick three-point lead off a Lamarius Lillard make. It was a lead the IU Northwest would control for the entirety of the game. The Saints trailed by 21 with 19:06 to go in the second half, but a robust Holy Cross bench performance made it a sixpoint game inside the final minute. However, the comeback effort would fall short and IU Northwest held on to win 88-82. Holy Cross then traveled to Calumet, where the team suffered an 83-53-point loss. Like the IU Northwest loss, the Saints never took possession of the lead after an early series of three-point shots by Joshua
Morris put them behind early. The team trailed by as much as 37. Holy Cross then played its two non-conference games against Michigan-Dearborn and Concordia. The Saints fell behind against Dearborn early as the Wolverines strung together a 7-0 run. The Saints were in danger of losing their eighth straight game but kept their composure and battled to get back into the contest. Freshman forward Davie Desmond was pivotal in the comeback, as he had seven of the Saints’ first 11 points and five rebounds in his first four minutes of play. He would finish the game with 31 points and 14 rebounds in 28 minutes off the bench. Once the Saints took the lead from the Wolverines, they never gave it back, despite a few Wolverine rallies. The Saints took a commanding 18-point lead with 9:40 left to play before the Wolverines cut it to seven. The Saints held on to win 8679, marking the team’s first win in the month of December. The Concordia game was a
thrilling back-and-forth affair that pitted two evenly matched teams against one another. Despite trailing early, the Saints finished the half with a 45-36 lead, courtesy of sophomore guard Phil Robles II’s buzzer-beater. Concordia was not out of the game and spent much of the second half slowly chipping away at the Saints lead until finally catching up with 5:41 to play. A series of clutch free throws from Robles II and a three-point play from sophomore guard Drew Adzia resulted in a nail-biter win for the Saints, with a final score of 76-73. The Saints’ two wins improved their record to 5-8 and gave the team much-needed momentum heading into the second half of conference play. Unfortunately, a 70-58 home loss to St. Francis and a 77-63 road loss to Olivet Nazarene stymied the team, leading to a 5-10 overall record and a dismal 0-7 record in conference play. On Monday, the team looked to end its conference woes when they hosted the Judson
Eagles. The Eagles jumped out to an early 13-point lead, but an 11-0 Saints run made it a 2522 game at the half. Holy Cross claimed the lead just 90 seconds into the second half and built up a small lead as the two teams traded baskets. In the final minutes, with a narrow lead, Robles II went to the line four times and scored eight points to give the Saints their first conference win, 61-55. The win sees the Saints improve to 6-10 (1-7) on the year and moves them into eleventh place, just two games back of Judson 6-10 (3-5) and the final playoff spot. The team will look to build off their win when they host Governors State this Wednesday. The game is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. Women’s Basketball The women’s basketball team kicked off their break with a home game against Grace on Dec. 6. Despite a good night from the three-point line (the Saints went 8 of 19), poor freethrow shooting was the difference. Holy Cross went 8-15
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from the charity stripe, while Grace dominated the line, finishing 22 of 28. The Saints lost close at home, 72-66. The Saints continued to play high-quality basketball as they returned to conference play to face IU Northwest. The game saw eight ties and ten lead changes, a contest so close it needed overtime after Northwest’s Jessica Carrothers nailed a buzzer-beater threepointer to tie the game at 65. Senior forward Neva Longhofer put the Saints ahead with two free throws, but two Saints fouls enabled the Red Hawks to get ahead. Trailing by two, Longhofer missed a three and the Red Hawks made theirs, taking a 72-67 lead. Senior guard Lauren Morris brought Holy Cross within one before junior guard Jordyn Smith gave the Saints a brief lead, but the Red Hawks completed their comeback, handing Holy Cross a 78-77 loss. The Saints responded to the close loss with a 73-42 thumping of Calumet. Junior forward see SAINTS PAGE 8
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THE OBSERVER | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2024 | NDSMCOBSERVER.COM
NOTRE DAME SPORTS
Winter break recap: Notre Dame sports By TYLER REIDY Associate Sports Editor
While Notre Dame students and faculty enjoyed a restful Winter Break, Irish athletics kept busy with over 25 events. From Hannah Hidalgo’s heroics to the dawning of a new men’s tennis season, here’s how the month played out.
Men’s Basketball Winter Break Record: 3-6; Overall Record: 7-11 (2-5 ACC) As year one under head coach Micah Shrewsberry rolls on, the Irish have reached the thick of conference play. But before they arrived there, they did some soulsearching. To start winter break, Notre Dame played a six-game homestand that kicked off with a 72-68 loss to Georgetown in overtime. A 65-45 fiasco against The Citadel followed, marking a low point in recent program history. But the Irish countered with a 60-56 takedown of Marist before emphatically closing 2023 as ACC play reopened. They eviscerated Virginia, 76-54, on tandem 17-point efforts from freshman forward Carey Booth and junior guard J.R. Konieczny. Freshman
guard Markus Burton added 15 points and 8 assists, securing his first ACC Rookie of the Week honor. The 76-point outburst became Notre Dame’s largest against the Cavaliers in program history. Moving into 2024, the Irish let two surprisingly winnable games slip away. They led for nearly 39 minutes against NC State until a Wolfpack up-and-under beat the buzzer for a 54-52 final. Three days later, the Irish hung within 2 points of No. 14 Duke late, eventually falling 67-59. Notre Dame then went on the road to Atlanta, where a 19-for21 showing at the free throw line turned into an overtime win at Georgia Tech. In the 75-68 victory, freshman guard Braeden Shrewsberrydroppedacareer-high 25 points en route to his own ACC Rookie of the Week recognition. In two break-closing losses since Georgia Tech, turnovers and missed foul shots have buried Notre Dame. Saturday’s 6758 home loss to Florida State saw the Irish go 3-for-11 at the stripe and commit 14 turnovers against a long Seminole defense. Turning quickly to a Monday trip to Boston College, Notre Dame
went 9-for-15 while accumulating 14 giveaways to the Eagles’ 3. The end result? A 63-59 loss in which the Irish led by 12 early.
Women’s Basketball Winter Break Record: 5-2; Overall Record: 12-3 (3-2 ACC) Still trudging back toward full strength, Niele Ivey’s squad managed a bumpy start to conference action. Hannah Hidalgo, however, was nothing but smooth throughout the break. The star freshman guard captured five consecutive ACC Rookie of the Week honors, bringing her season total to eight. Her seventh such honor broke Notre Dame’s program record. Hidalgo’s team also opened the break on cruise control, drubbing Purdue 76-39. Before the game, Notre Dame unveiled a statue of Hall of Fame head coach Muffet McGraw outside the Joyce Center. After celebrating Muffet’s legacy, Hidalgo wrote another chapter of her own, delivering a triple-double in a Dec. 21 84-47 takedown of Western Michigan. Her 26 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and 5 steals made for the second triple-double by a Notre Dame freshman. Hidalgo then scored a
career-high 32 in her first ACC game, a losing effort at Syracuse on New Year’s Eve. The 86-81 defeat featured an alarming 24 Irish turnovers. Notre Dame then played perhaps its most shorthanded game yet in a 71-66 win at Pitt. While senior forward Maddy Westbeld nursed a concussion, Hidalgo and graduate student guard Anna DeWolfe — who scored her 2,000th career point during the game — pushed the Irish to the finish line. Westbeld would miss game one of the most recent three-game homestand, and her absence showed on the interior. Even as junior guard Sonia Citron returned from a knee sprain that sidelined her for nearly 2 months with 17 points, North Carolina controlled the paint and handed the Irish a 61-57 loss. Notre Dame promptly bounced back Thursday, riding Westbeld’s return double-double to a 98-48 blowout of Boston College. The good vibes continued Sunday, with Hidalgo’s freshman program record-tying 13th 20-point game leading the Irish to a 70-59 defeat of Miami (FL).
3-3-0; Overall Record: 11-11-2 (5-7-2 Big Ten) The hockey team also bookended winter break with victories, remaining at .500 on the season. With freshman forward Danny Nelson on his way to a gold medal at the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships in Sweden, another first-year center stepped up in Notre Dame’s final series of 2023. Cole Knuble broke out against Augustana, spearheading an Irish sweep by quintupling his goal count. His game-one hat trick keyed a 5-2 victory before he slammed the door on the Vikings with a series-ending overtime winner. Knuble’s four-goal weekend earned him Big Ten Second Star of the Week accolades. The stars didn’t align for a positive return to conference play, though. Wisconsin handed Notre Dame its first home sweep in three years with 2-1 and 7-4 results. Then, Ohio State extended the Irish in-league losing streak to 6 in a 3-2 game Friday in Columbus, Ohio. But Notre Dame responded well, overcoming its Saturday woes with a 5-2, split-inducing
Hockey Winter
Break
Record:
see ND SPORTS PAGE 10
HOCKEY
Notre Dame splits series at Ohio State By RYAN MURPHY Sports Writer
Notre Dame hockey split two games on the road at Ohio State this past weekend. After being swept at home by No. 4 Wisconsin, the Irish needed to bounce back against the Big Ten’s lastplace team. They were unable to turn the tides Friday night, losing 3-2. Notre Dame broke even Saturday, though, with a 5-2 win.
Friday: Ohio State 3, Notre Dame 2 In Friday’s game one, the Buckeyes led 2-0 after two periods. Dalton Messina got Ohio State on board first with 3:44 remaining in the first period with his fourth of the season, cleaning up a rebound off Notre Dame graduate student goaltender Ryan Bischel’s pad. The Buckeyes then went ahead by two midway through the second, when Stephen Halliday split the Irish defense and beat Bischel on the backhand. Notre Dame clawed their way back in the third, striking twice to tie the game. A point shot by senior defenseman Drew Bavaro sifted through traffic and into the net just one minute into the
period, setting the tone. Then, just over eight minutes later, an excellent individual effort by freshman forward Danny Nelson tied the game at two. Nelson, returning to the Irish lineup after winning a gold medal overseas at the IIHF World Junior Championship, drove to the Buckeye cage from the right wing and deposited the puck past Logan Terness. The Irish surrendered the gamewinning goal just over two minutes later. While on the power play, Scooter Brickey snapped home a wrist shot for his teamleading ninth goal of the season. Notre Dame had an opportunity to tie the game with a power-play goal of their own late, but the Irish could not convert, even with Bischel pulled for an extra attacker. Penalties played a strong role in the contest. Notre Dame was whistled for three penalties in the first period, disrupting the game’s momentum. The Irish were not penalized again until the third when Brickey scored the game-winner. The regulation win was Ohio State’s first in Big Ten conference play. Graduate student netminder Bischel kicked out 34 of 37 Buckeye shots for the Irish. Terness stopped 26 of 28
between the pipes for Ohio State.
Saturday: Notre Dame 5, Ohio State 2 Notre Dame went back to Bischel on night two, as they have for every series this season. Ohio State freshman Kristoffer Eberly made his sixth start of the season for the Buckeyes. He was tested with more volume and high-danger shots than Terness. The first period was a highscoring affair. This time, Notre Dame jumped out to an early 2-0 lead behind goals by senior forwards Grant Silianoff and Landon Slaggert just 1:23 apart. Both players redirected points shots from a foot outside the blue paint. The Buckeyes countered quickly, scoring twice in the final three minutes of the frame to leave the score tied after one period. Max Montes finished off a 2-on-0 break with Joe Dunlap for the first Ohio State goal. From an offensive zone faceoff, the Irish had mishandled the puck at the blue line, resulting in the 2-on0. Then with 50 seconds remaining, team points leader Halliday scored for the second straight night. Halliday’s goal, though, finished the Ohio State scoring for see HOCKEY PAGE 8
MEGHAN LANGE | The Observer
Irish senior forward Landon Slaggert carries the puck across the blueline during Notre Dame’s series at Ohio State from Jan. 12-13.