The independent
To uncover
newspaper serving
the truth
Notre Dame, Saint Mary’s
and report
and holy cross
it accurately
Volume 56, Issue 7 | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
New vice president starts term Fr. Gerard Olinger begins role as vice president by listening to student voices By BELLA LAUFENBERG News Writer
As Fr. Gerard (Gerr y) Olinger C.S.C. starts his position as Notre Dame’s new Vice President of Student Affairs, he intends to listen to concerns of the universit y before forming a plan of action. Born and raised outside of Philadelphia, PA, Olinger is the oldest of four siblings and has three younger sisters — one being 13 years his junior. A lthough Olinger
completed his histor y and government undergraduate degrees at Notre Dame, he did not head into the Holy Cross Congregation straight out of school. Olinger instead went to Notre Dame’s Law School to, as he put it, delay his seminar y work. “I was [during my undergraduate years] often thinking about the seminar y, but just wasn’t, as a senior, ready to fully commit. So, I often laugh that I went to law see OLINGER PAGE 3
Observer Staff Report
COURTESY OF KATE MORGAN
Rev. Gerard (Gerry) J. Olinger, C.S.C. , alumnus of the University, began his role as vice president of student affairs in June of 2021.
Students bring awareness to suicide prevention Notre Dame Student Government is presenting “Glad You’re Here,” this Monday through Wednesday, a series of events for mental health awareness, healing and suicide prevention to obser ve National Suicide Prevention Week. The Student Government’s goal is to open conversations surrounding mental health and suicide, prov ide access to Notre Dame’s mental health resources and create space for healing. The events begin Monday w ith a table in Duncan Student Center, where student government representatives w ill be handing out free t-shirts and prov iding information and resources for mental health and suicide prevention from 11 a.m. to noon. “We really just want to make students aware of the resources and kind of destigmatize seeking those resources, because sometimes that can be a really challenging part of actually getting help,” Juliette Kelley, co-director of Student Government’s health and well-being said.
As the week progresses, the events move from information and resources to healing and conversation. The healing and memorial prayer ser v ice w ill take place on Tuesday evening at the Grotto and is open to all faiths and beliefs. A lthough the ser v ice begins at 8 p.m., organizers are encouraging people to arrive early, as they w ill be distributing candles and f lowers and allow ing people to place photos of loved ones at the altar. Mar y Elizabeth Stern, the Student Government Director of faith and ser v ice, has been instrumental in the planning of the prayer ser v ice. Stern said the prayer ser v ice is about communit y and healing, but also the destigmatization of mental health w ithin the Catholic Church. “There’s little that anyone can do that eases the pain and the loss of being affected by suicide, whether that’s you are currently struggling, or you have lost someone close to you by suicide, but we are going to do the most that we can to lift that burden of grief, just a little bit,” Stern, a sophomore,
said. The final installment of the week w ill be “We Want You Here,” a discussion in LaFortune Student Center featuring Active Minds, a nonprofit for the destigmatization of mental illness, and Dr. Megan Brow n, director of the McDonald Center for Student Well-Being. The discussion, which w ill take place Wednesday from 7 to 7:45 p.m., w ill explore ways to help oneself and others when dealing w ith suicidal thoughts. Student Government’s co-Director of health and well-being Austin Wy man said the goal of these events is not to shock people w ith the severit y of the mental health and suicide crises we see on campus and around the world, but rather to take action, giv ing people the tools and resources they need to heal or help someone else who is struggling. Student Government leaders organized events w ith the goal of opening long-lasting conversations surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. W hile Kelley and Wy man
News PAGE 4
SCENe PAGE 5
VIEWPOINT PAGE 7
By SIOBHAN LOUGHNEY News Writer
Division provides campus updates In a Friday email to students, vice president for inclusion and equity, Redgina Hill, gave students more information about the new Division of Inclusion and Equity and its staff members. see EQUITY PAGE 3
Reconstructed McKenna Hall unveiled By ALYSA GUFFEY Notre Dame News Editor
After a two-year demolition and reconstruction, McKenna Hall officially reopened August 31. Standing at four stories high, the building is situated on the picturesque Notre Dame Avenue, between Stinson-Remick Hall and the Notre Dame Law School. The building’s name recognizes the philanthropy and generosity of Andy McKenna, a class of 1951 Notre Dame alum and member of the Board of Trustees since 1980, along with his late wife Joan. Originally, the Notre Dame Conference Center was named after the pair in 1998. Then, in 2018, McKenna financially supported
see PREVENTION PAGE 4
the reconstruction of the building. McKenna Hall now houses the University’s enrollment division and department of admissions, among other departments. Mike Daly, senior director of project management at Notre Dame, said the enrollment division began moving into the building early and started hosting guests August 23. “This was a special day as it was the return of in-person campus visits for prospective students and their families that had been stopped due to COVID,” Daly said in an email. Daly explained that the enrollment division, previously see McKENNA PAGE 3
Alysa Guffey| THE OBSERVER
W Soccer PAGE 12
FOOTBALL PAGE 12
2
TODAY
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
Question of the Day: ndsmcobserver.com
Have a question you want answered? Email photo@ndsmcobserver.com
What’s the best part about fall on campus?
P.O. Box 779, Notre Dame, IN 46556 024 South Dining Hall, Notre Dame, IN 46556 Editor-in-Chief Adriana Perez Managing Editor Evan McKenna
Asst. Managing Editor: Isabella Volmert Asst. Managing Editor: Colin Capece Asst. Managing Editor: Nelisha Silva
Notre Dame News Editor: Alysa Guffey Saint Mary’s News Editor: Genevieve Coleman Viewpoint Editor: Abby Patrick Sports Editor: Mannion McGinley Scene Editor: Aidan O’Malley Photo Editor: Allison Thornton Graphics Editor: Maggie Klaers Social Media Editor: Veronica Navarro Advertising Manager: Landry Kempf Ad Design Manager: Maggie Klaers Systems Administrator: Rachel Johnson Talent & Inclusion Manager: Nelisha Silva
Tara Thayer
Evan Luellen
Junior Lyons Hall
Law student Off campus
“Football season!!”
“Seeing familiar faces outdoors.”
Abie Craff
Eliza Wells
Junior Lyons Hall
First year Badin Hall
“Football!!”
“Having it not be so hot in the dorm all the time.”
Huan Nguyen
Anissa Cavanaugh
Law student Off campus
First year Badin Hall
“Playing spikeball on the quad.”
“Enjoing the weather and being outside with friends.”
Office Manager & General Info
Ph: (574) 631-7471 Fax: (574) 631-6927 Advertising
(574) 631-6900 ads@ndsmcobserver.com Editor-in-Chief
(574) 631-4542 aperez8@nd.edu Managing Editor
(574) 631-4542 emckenn2@nd.edu Assistant Managing Editors
(574) 631-4541 ivolmert@nd.edu, ccapece@nd.edu, nsilva1@nd.edu Business Office
(574) 631-5313 Notre Dame News Desk
(574) 631-5323 news@ndsmcobserver.com Saint Mary’s News Desk
(574) 631-5323 smc@ndsmcobserver.com Viewpoint Desk
(574) 631-5303 viewpoint@ndsmcobserver.om Sports Desk
(574) 631-4543 sports@ndsmcobserver.com Scene Desk
(574) 631-4540 scene@ndsmcobserver.com Photo Desk
(574) 631-8767 photo@ndsmcobserver.com Systems & Web Administrators
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 Adriana Perez. 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
Today’s Staff News
Sports
Genevieve Coleman Meg Lange
Mannion McGinley
Graphics
Nia Sylva
Maggie Klaers
Photo
Scene Viewpoint Elizabeth Prater
Erin Fennessy
Corrections The Observer regards itself as a professional publication and strives for the highest standards of journalism at all times. We do, however, recognize that we will make mistakes. If we have made a mistake, please contact us at (574) 631-4541 so we can correct our error.
Erin Fennessy | The Observer
Portable toilets line the back of the Legends Lot across the street from the Walsh Family Hall of Architecture as Notre Dame prepares to welcome fans back to campus for the football home opener against Toledo next weekend.
The next Five days:
Want your event included here? Email news@ndsmcobserver.com
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Labor Day U.S.A All day National holiday for American workers.
Mosaic Dinner Rice Commons 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Join Student Diversity Board for first event.
“Fires and Floods” Virtual Event 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Flash Panel on Europe in 2021.
Daily Mass Basilica of the Sacred Heart 11:30 a.m. & 5:15 p.m. All are welcome.
“Exploiting Diversity” Zoom 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Lecture by Prof. Leong.
FUEL Washington Hall 8:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Get involved with student leadership.
Eurocup Team Trivia 1030 Nanovic Hall 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Trivia night to win the Eurocup.
CSLC Open House Bond Hall 334 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Meet faculty and staff of the CSLC.
Relationship Building Stapleton Lounge 4:30 p.m. Join intentional conversations.
Food Truck Friday Library Lawn 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Enjoy delicious food on Library Lawn.
News
ndsmcobserver.com | Monday, September 6, 2021 | The ObserveR
Paid Advertisement
McKenna Continued from page 1
located in Main Building, began looking into a more immediate location for visitors on campus. In addition to the enrollment division, McKenna Hall continues to house the conference center, just as the previous building did. “The building is unique as enrollment has a different mission than the conference center, but both groups have the opportunity to be one of the first experiences for first time visitors to campus so to have both groups in the building makes a lot of sense,” Daly said. “It is our ‘front door’ to the University in some respects.” The pedestrian tunnel connecting McKenna Hall to the Morris Inn — located directly across the street — is still in use after the
Olinger Continued from page 1
school as a bit of a delay tactic,” Olinger admitted. Olinger did finally decide to join Congregation of Holy Cross during his third year of law school and went into formation for seminary following his law school graduation. While in formation, Olinger also completed a master’s of theology and divinity at Notre Dame. Olinger said he continues to have many close friendships with priests he met there, including Fr. Pete McCormick. Olinger was then assigned to the University of Portland in Oregon and served in residence life and campus ministry. In his second year there, he was invited to work in administration. “I was asked to enter into administration [my second year], so I spent eight years as an administrator at the University of Portland, including four years as vice president for student affairs,” Olinger said. During his time in Portland, Olinger was simultaneously serving on Notre Dame’s board of trustees from 2014-2018. He officially returned to the university as of 2018 to take on the role of vice president for mission engagement and church affairs. He also moved into Alumni Hall as an in-residence priest — where he is still currently residing. Olinger said his position mainly focused on church relation within and outside of Notre Dame. “I was responsible for helping Notre Dame to deepen and strengthen our Catholic and our Holy Cross identity; I worked as liaison with the Vatican, with the U.S. Bishops Conference
and with the congregation of Holy Cross,” Olinger said. “It was a job that really required working across the different divisions of the university.” After the news of Erin Hoffmann Harding returning to consultant work, Olinger said he was approached by Fr. Jenkins about assuming the role. At first, Olinger said he realized he would be inheriting a large role with many responsibilities, but he was being called. “I recognized it was a really big job,” Olinger said. “There’s a little bit of intimidation, right, to recognize all the responsibilities. I really did have a strong sense that God was calling me to this work.” Since Olinger has only been in his new role for a couple of months, he said he is still in a process of listening to different groups around campus to contextualize the campus’s issues. “One of the things I’ve committed to as I’ve begun is to listen broadly and deeply,” Olinger said. “So, I’m meeting with every director in the Division, every rector in the division, each of the departments. A lot of our partners from external partners, from outside of the division and then members of the Board of Trustees committee for Undergraduate Education and Student Life. And so, it’s over 100 meetings.” He added that he has only just begun the process of listening to student voices as well. Olinger said he was overjoyed to hear many great things about the university from personnel. “[I] ask people what we do well, it’s about care of students by people who are absolutely dedicated to our
students — who give everything for them,” Olinger said. “It’s been life giving, to hear that.” Olinger said he also has consistently heard a couple main themes of issues throughout all his conversations — implications of the pandemic, issues of diversity and inclusion and the reality of religious disaffiliation. He said he plans to take these issues into consideration when he partakes in strategic planning during next summer. “I think it’s important as I not to come in with a set of priorities, or, you know, a fully baked plan, but really to begin with listening and my hope is that the themes that emerge from these listening sessions will become kind of a foundational part of our upcoming strategic planning process,” Olinger said. One issue that is particularly significant to him is the importance of mental health. Olinger said he hopes students can find balance between academic and personal development. “If I had a word of advice that I want to give our students, it’s finding that balance between doing what we’re passionate about and really being able to engage it, but also finding that space to understand who we are, our deepest level as a beloved child of God and how God has blessed us and calls us to use our gifts on behalf of others,” Olinger emphasized. “That doesn’t often happen in the busyness of life, but often happens in that kind of quiet moment.” Contact Bella Laufenberg at ilaufenb@nd.edu
reconstruction, Daly said. Daly said the interior layout of the building is based on function. The first floor includes the visitor gallery, auditorium and the Student Accounts and Financial Aid offices while the conference center constitutes the entire second floor. The third and fourth floors contain various smaller portions of the enrollment division that are not as necessary for public access, Daly said. Daly also described a special touch in McKenna Hall that pays tribute to the University’s progress. “On the first floor in the gallery we have 15 digital displays that help tell the Notre Dame story, of where we have been, what we are doing now and where we hope to be in the future,” Daly said. “I think this is something very unique to any of our buildings.” Compared to the old McKenna Hall, the new building has roughly 25,000
Equity Continued from page 1
Hill began her message by describing the mission of the division, which orignates from the College’s new Strategic Plan. “Our division exists as an institutional response to fulfill the goals outlined in the Strategic Plan,” Hill said. “As a division, we strive to create a culture of belonging and mattering by fostering an inclusive environment for all to experience acceptance, belonging and feel empowered to engage in the campus culture as a valued member.” According to Hill, there are four departments that are housed within the division — the Office of Multicultural and International Student Services, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative, the Office for Student Equity and the LGBTQ+ Center. Hill noted that the Office of Multicultural and International Student Services exists to aid underrepresented students. “This office works to expand the College’s commitment to meeting the needs of its diverse student population through outreach, collaboration, and programs,” she said. The Office is led by alumna Adriana Petty (’01), whose office is located in 214 Student Center. According to Hill, the Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) serves the community by supporting female entrepreneurs through various programs. “WEI provides real-world learning experiences and opportunities for small business/entrepreneurship to Saint Mary’s College students and empowers women entrepreneurs and businesswomen through personal and professional development,” she
3
more square feet. Daly said the overall budget for the project was 45 million dollars. “That [budget] is inclusive of everything from the construction of the building down to the plates used for meals and everything in between,” he said. Consistent with many other buildings on campus, the exterior of McKenna Hall was built out of brick, slate and cast stone, Daly said. Daly described the style of the building as “collegiate gothic,” similar to other buildings on Notre Dame Avenue and in older portions of campus. Daly said he has heard nothing but positive feedback on the building, from both those that work in the building and those who visit campus. “The interior of the building is quite beautiful and striking,” Daly said. Contact Alysa Guffey at aguffey@nd.edu
said. “Since going online, WEI’s flagship program, the SPARK Women’s Business Accelerator is now reaching a national and international audience. Additionally, WEI is piloting a program to support diverse, women entrepreneurs in building wealth and leading neighborhood revitalization through small-scale development.” The WEI is headed by director Willow Wetherall who is located in 103 Haggar Hall, said Hill. The recently established Office for Student Equity through a donation from the Wilson Sheehan Foundation works to aid students of lower socioeconomic status. “The office aspires to support our socioeconomic diverse student population and empowers students to achieve their full potential through financial, educational, and social support,” Hill said. Alumna Christin Kloski (’15) is the associate director of the Office and is located in 216 Student Center. Hill stated that the LGBTQ Center is also newly established, highlighting the College’s dedication to creating a safe space for students who identify as LGBTQ+, as well as their allies. “The LGBTQ+ Center is new to campus and marks the College’s commitment, outlined in the strategic plan, to create a culture of belonging and mattering by fostering an inclusive environment for all,” she said. The Center, located in 216 Student Center, is taking suggestions of names, which can be recorded in a Google Form until Sept. 22, Hill noted. Elayne Swafford will serve as the executive administrative assistant of the Center. Hill stated that the celebration of the Office for Student Equity and the LGBTQ+ Center will take place during President Katie Conboy’s inauguration on Oct. 7 at 4 pm in Rice Commons.
4
NEWS
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
Prevention Continued from page 1
placed special emphasis on these topics for National Suicide Prevention Week, the conclusion of Wednesday’s discussion does not close the door on such conversations. Wy man is also a member of Notre Dame’s chapter of Active Minds, and said the organization w ill be hosting State of Mind Week at the end of the month. The week w ill feature the club’s signature event, “In Our Ow n Words,” which w ill share communit y members’ experiences liv ing w ith mental illnesses. “I want to make sure that mental health and just the culture around mental health on campus is an on going conversation,” Wy man said. “The conversation never stops because once it stops people think that nobody’s listening to them any more.” Contact Siobhan Loughney at sloughne@nd.edu
ND Forum to host keynote address Observer Staff Report
The Notre Dame 2021 Forum’s key note event w ill be hosted by NBC chief env ironmental affairs correspondent Anne Thompson and co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus Sen. Chris Coons, the Universit y announced in a Wednesday press release. The event w ill be held Sept. 10 from 3-4 p.m in the Jordan Auditorium of the Mendoza College of Business. This year’s forum, “Care for Our Common Home: Just Transition to a Sustainable Future,” is centered on the env ironmental, economic, social and political implications of climate change. Universit y President Fr. John Jenkins expressed his gratitude to Coons and Thompson for their w illingness to collaborate
on the issue. “As we launch this year’s ND Forum, we are fortunate to hear from Sen. Coons, a leader who has reached across the aisle to address the urgent issues of climate change and just transition,” Jenkins said in the release. “I am deeply grateful to both Sen. Coons and Anne Thompson for prov iding us w ith this opportunit y to ref lect deeply on the next steps we might take, as indiv iduals and as a nation.” The press release detailed Coon’s impact during his 11 year tenure in the Senate. “In addition to founding and chairing the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus w ith Sen. Mike Braun, Coons has led several pieces of bipartisan legislation, including the Energ y Sav ings Through Public-Private Partnerships Act, Partnerships for Energ y Securit y and Innovation Act and the Financing Our
Energ y Future Act, which would take important steps to support energ y efficiency and clean energ y research, development and deployment,” the press release said. Thompson has covered various env ironmental affairs, including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the press release said in describing her career. “The env ironmental affairs correspondent for NBC News since 2007, Thompson covered all aspects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mex ico and has traveled the globe reporting on alternative fuels, global warming, land usage, new technologies and other topics related to the env ironment and climate change,” the press release said. “She prev iously ser ved as chief financial correspondent for NBC News and is the recipient of the Gerald Loeb Award for distinguished business and financial journalism.”
In the release, the Universit y also noted the Forum w ill host additional events throughout the week related to Pope Francis’s encyclical on the env ironment and its international effects. “Universit y facult y and guest speakers w ill set the stage for the first Notre Dame Forum key note w ith three events Sept. 7 to 9, offering an over v iew of the encyclical, examining teaching and research on campus connected to the problems outlined by Pope Francis, discussing common work and opportunities, and exploring the role of international cooperation and s ecurit y,” the press release said. The Notre Dame Forum was established in 2005, according to the release, and has “inv ited a campus-w ide dialogue about issues of importance to the Universit y, the nation and the larger world.”
5
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
By ANGELA MATHEW Scene Writer
If you’re a city person like me, “Nomadland” will make you slow down. This film was showing in the Browning Cinema in DPAC this past weekend; I was lucky enough to go on a journey with Fern, “Nomadland”’s elderly protagonist (Frances McDormand). I followed Fern, dipping my toes into a stream of rushing water, taking in the woody scent as the forest embraced me, even tilting my head back to look up at an evening sky swirling with lilac and orange hues in the sweeping desert. But the Academy Award-winning film isn’t just a highlight reel of beautiful landscapes. In fact, the background for a lot of Fern’s days consists of vast, dreary campgrounds or winding roads in the icy wilderness of the American West. This is because the character is part of a loose constellation of nomads, elderly Americans who’ve lost their livelihoods and have had to vacate their homes due to a combination of economic factors, the 2008 recession among them. These nomads opt to make their homes in vans or recreational vehicles, doing temporary jobs wherever they go. To me, this story is distinctly American. It is a uniquely American notion for people, even the elderly, to hold on
By ROSE ANDROWICH Scene Writer
Despite the positive experience of being back in the movie theater, “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar” was disappointing. The most upsetting part was that I truly wanted to love “Barb and Star.” But according to my analysis, Barb and Star were both boring — so boring, in fact, that even side characters were more entertaining — and the movie’s attempts at humor just weren’t that funny. Movies are a form of escape from reality, and why would I want to watch two characters who I don’t find entertaining? The banter between Barb and Star had a “Gilmore Girls”-esque feeling to it, but I found it to be severely lacking, mostly because of how seemingly weird and random the conversations tended to be. How weird, you might ask? The movie’s producers had its title characters spend an entire plane ride creating an imaginary character named Trish. Perhaps for some, watching uninspired main characters is enjoyable; but aside from being boring, Barb and Star were basic. Unless I happened to miss the memo that this film was a satire masterpiece, then the characters lacked depth, and not by design. Even when the characters were supposed to display emotional depth — during Edgar’s divorce, perhaps — the back-toback, nearly identical dialogue managed to erase the pathos that such scenes might otherwise have had. Maybe I’m being overly harsh because of Kristen Wiig’s iconic Bridesmaids argument scene; the big argument in Barb
dearly to their personal freedom when everything, including their dignity, has been taken away from them. I say this specifically because most of the film’s nomadic characters do in fact have some family members who are willing to take them in. However, these individuals prefer to be the authors of their own destiny, even if that means giving up running water and safety. The trajectory of the film also reflects how the economy has let down American people who have spent their whole lives working for one company. In Fern’s case, her husband worked at a mine until he died; later, the mine was shut down, forcing out all the dependents who lived there. The nomads are forced to accept this failure of the state, and instead of protesting for better Social Security benefits, they just move on with their lives. The film makes a poignant statement about freedom. The free market and rapid closure of the mine lead to Fern’s ruin. However, it’s that same fluidity of the labor market that allow her to find a new lease on life in the form of a job at an Amazon packaging unit. The scenes in the grey Amazon facility are particularly jarring after the wide shots of gorgeous nature, this dichotomy providing a fitting symbolic reflection of an odd reality: Amazon, which is not known to be the most generous employer, is
actually what is keeping Fern afloat and not her nest egg thanks to the perpetual strangeness of the free market. “Nomadland”’s depiction of the free-flowing companionship of the nomads was similarly moving. The bonds that Fern makes as she travels are deep, but the nomads never hold each other back. Swankie, one of Fern’s friends, has been diagnosed with lung cancer and only has a few months to live. At first, Fern wants to take her to a hospital, but Swankie is clear that she wants to ‘watch pelicans fly’ and live life instead of dying in a hospital room. Before Swankie leaves on her travels, Fern helps her fix up her van and gives her a haircut, making for one of the most intimate scenes in the film. Fern’s other friends weave in and out of her life, sometimes working the same job and reveling in each others’ company but also going off on their separate adventures, with the understanding that only two untethered people can have. Beyond all the political statements the film makes about the lack of welfare in the US and about personal liberty, “Nomadland” is an achingly realistic slice of life that will make you think of what home means to you.
and Star, however, is superficial — essentially, it boils down to two woman fighting over a lie told about a guy. In fact, while we are on the topic of arguments, why does Star, who betrays her best friend in a much greater way, get so upset that Barb almost rode on a banana boat without her? The answer to this question reveals one of the movie’s biggest flaws: When a character has a genuine reason to be upset, it tends to be put aside in the end. Sharon devotes herself endlessly to the idea of getting revenge on the town of Vista Del Mar after after she was humiliated by girls in her high school. But in the end, Sharon’s plan fails, and she simply decides to become friends with the people of Vista Del Mar. Even though the plan was truly evil and would have harmed thousands of innocent people, Sharon deserved to get some form of closure. Perhaps something as small as having the girls from high school apologize would have provided some emotional resolution for viewers. The only characters who had a somewhat good ending were Edgar and Star. They ultimately ended up together. However, I found this pairing to be questionable. Edgar starts the movie in love with Sharon, and it seems weird that Edgar’s feelings could change so quickly, especially given that he was in love with Sharon for many years. Despite Edgar and Star being the only couple in the movie, there were still other people I would have preferred to see together. Tommy and Barb, for instance, shared a poignant scene, during which Tommy gives Barb amazing advice. It was a shame he only had one scene in the
movie, as there seemed to be potential for a relationship there. Moving on to my final critique of Barb and Star: the side characters should have had more story lines. I found almost every scene that didn’t have Barb and Star in it to be very entertaining and would have enjoyed more funny scenes of Edgar and Darlie Bunkle or even more of Sharon and Yoyo. Despite not liking “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar,” there are some things in the movie that deserve credit. First would be the soundtrack, because the songs and musical accompaniments were very enjoyable (excluding a few weird lyrics). There were also some scenes I genuinely found very funny, but they were usually over all too soon.
Contact Angela Mathew amathew3@nd.edu
Contact Rose Androwich at randrowich01@saintmarys.edu
“Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar” Director: Josh Greenbaum Starring: Kristen Wiig, Jamie Dornan, Annie Murmolo If you like: “Bridesmaids”
MAGGIE KLAERS | The Observer
6
The observer | Monday, september 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
Danger ahead
Inside Column
What’s the deal with MOOV: Inside Scoop Kelsey Dinvaut Facebook Platform Manager
The MOOV app has gained some serious traction in the tri-campus community, gaining around two thousand users in the first week since its launch. The app, created by Notre Dame students Kevin Camson and Alvin Alaphat, focuses on socializing the Notre Dame community with one another and the South Bend region. I figured since I’ve gotten the chance to work with the founders, I’d give everyone an insider look at what MOOV is really about, including how I’d rate its potential for success.
What is MOOV? MOOV is an app that is only accessible to students. It allows the ND/SMC/HC community to learn more about what events are happening on a day-to-day basis. Events can range from parties to spiritual gatherings. Quite literally anything you can think of, MOOV would have it. Some of its most prominent features include the easy format of the app itself, shareable events (you can either find or create them), a community feature, which focuses on the events you’re most interested in, a thermal heat map and of course, a vibe check. My favorite by far is the vibe check, because why would you go if the vibes aren’t immaculate?
Is it free? Downloading MOOV is 100% free, which is yet another perk. Once you get the app (again, you’ve got to use your student login), you can choose to make in-app payments for passes to events, which would guarantee entry. I personally find this to be super convenient and safe to use, but if you’re not the type to pay with your phone, you can definitely still reap the benefits of MOOV.
Current Rating While the app still has several physical features it could improve upon, I think it has major potential. The type of potential that goes beyond the local stage and enters a nationwide market. College students everywhere are going to need something like this. Why? Convenience. Being on MOOV has made communication with my groups ten times easier, and I find myself checking the app on a regular basis to know what I should be on the lookout for. The founders are super passionate about MOOV and I feel that their team is going to put 110% in until every Notre Dame student gets on the app. So, if you haven’t already, take it from me. Get the app. I’m giving it a solid 10 based on the dedication, potential and boosts the company has already seen. It’s Saturday night so I’m going to quit writing this and figure out what the MOOV is. Peace. You can contact Kelsey at kdinvaut@nd.edu The views expressed in this Inside Column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
Submit a Letter to the Editor: viewpoint@ndsmcobserver.com
Trevor Lwere On the Other Hand
In January 2021, Facebook and Twitter shut down accounts on their platforms belonging to social media bloggers associated with the government and the ruling party in Uganda. This followed the indefinite suspension of President Trump’s accounts on both platforms in the wake of the siege on Capitol Hill. Recently, Facebook has been involved in a brawl with the Australian government and with the military junta that usurped power in Myanmar. More recently, in June 2021, Twitter deleted a tweet by Nigerian President, Muhamad Buhari. Whereas President Trump had no recourse, the President of Uganda retaliated by having both Facebook and Twitter blocked in Uganda until the positions of the two parties were harmonized. Twitter was opened, eventually. Access to Facebook remains restricted in Uganda. Once again, these incidents have brought to the fore the debate on the power of big tech and its implications for democracy around the world. Regulation of social media by the owners of these platforms is necessary. However, it cannot be done in contravention of the constitution of any given jurisdiction. In the first place, we must acknowledge that whereas free speech is crucial to democracy, it is not an absolute right. To the extent that it can endanger life and threaten public order, free speech ought to be regulated. People should be free to say whatever they want provided they don’t breach public order or endanger the lives of others. To this extent, therefore, it can be argued that both Facebook and Twitter acted in public interest by taking down accounts associated with activity likely to breach public order or endanger the lives of others. Yet, whereas the motive of both Twitter and Facebook can be said to be good, their method wrong. By unilaterally regulating free speech in accordance with their terms of use or ‘community standards’ as it were, not only have social media companies illegally abrogated themselves the right of regulating free speech in society, but they also threaten to undermine the power of duly elected governments around the world — the legitimate representatives of the people. Free speech is so crucial to democracy that its regulation cannot be left to private interests. Being such a controversial matter at the heart of democracy, free speech should only be regulated by citizens themselves through their public representatives, not by money concerns posturing as guardians of the public order. As commercial firms, Facebook and Twitter are essentially profit-driven entities. Profit considerations come first in their calculations, including in their decisions and actions in regulating free speech. That is, their primary consideration is not the public interests, even if it appears to be so. Whereas elected representatives could sometimes have perverse interests that can conflict with the public good, however, given that they exist to protect the public good, the choice of regulator between them and private entities cannot be clearer. Moreover, public regulation of free speech gives such regulation the force of the law which ensures that there
is a standard reference point for settling disputes that might arise thereof. In other words, restrictions on free speech must have a constitutional basis. Whereas the motives of Twitter and Facebook can be in public interest in some cases, their methods are wrong in as far as they do not hold any public office to preside over the regulation of such a sensitive matter nor do their actions have a basis in the constitution of the places where they operate. The constitution, as the contractual agreement between associated people’s ought to provide guidance on the matter or the actors who move to regulate free speech on the grounds discussed above, must draw their power from the constitution. Yet, if all these different platforms have their own ‘community standards,’ arbitration becomes complicated. Some people have invoked some notion of property rights arguing that as private platforms, Facebook and Twitter have a right to do as they wish on their platforms. However, Facebook and Twitter are not purely private entities. These platforms are essentially virtual communities. In other words, they take physical society and refashion it in virtual ways. Whereas they have ownership of the infrastructure to make this possible, we ought not to confuse ownership of that machinery with an absolute ability to introduce private standards that human beings, as legal persons, must interact with on these platforms. Neither should our consent to the community standards of these platforms be taken to mean a surrender of our rights and power as citizens of a democratic society or any other kind of political community for that matter. These rights and power are prior to Facebook and Twitter and under no circumstances are they to be overridden except in the courts of law on the basis of the constitution as the arbiter of social conflict. Indeed, it goes without saying that even these platforms by their very existence within a political community with defined rules are subject to the law of the land, and under no circumstance, not even the claims to being a private entity, can they arrogate themselves power to regulate public discourse, a power which they do not have, and which has a basis only in the constitution and not in the modus operandi of some self-serving corporation. This is more important if we consider how crucial free speech is to a democratic society and how the usurpation of that power undermines the people’s validly elected and legitimate representatives. In sum, therefore, there is no legal basis for Facebook and Twitter to arrogate themselves power to regulate sensitive a matter to democracy as free speech as they neither hold public office nor do they have a basis in the constitution. Appointing themselves as the chief priests of ‘truth’ and the arbiters of political contests as in Uganda and Myanmar is just the hubris of undue excessive power arising from private interests being left to their own devices. Trevor Lwere is a senior at Notre Dame majoring in economics, with a PPE minor. He hails from Kampala, Uganda and is currently abroad. He is a dee-jay in his other life and can be reached at tlwere@nd.edu The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
7
The observer | Monday, september 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
LETTERs TO THE EDITOR
“Hindi” at Notre Dame To any and all, This is not a letter addressed to a reader w ith any purpose but simply a recollection of a Fulbright Fellow who arrived on campus in August to teach her native language in a foreign land. From India to Indiana, from Universit y of Lucknow to Universit y of Notre Dame and from an English student pursuing doctoral research in India to a Foreign Language Teaching Assistant in the United States, I am yet to explore the transitions. I arrived in Notre Dame last month on August 17 from India as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant for Hindi language. After a cab drive from my home to my cit y airport, four connecting f lights, another car drive from South Bend airport to Mishawaka and then to the Fischer Graduate Residences, I continue my personal transition from a English Ph.D. student in India to a Hindi FLTA in the States. Hindi remains a “less commonly” taught language here at Notre Dame, and I was never able to meet, in person, any other Fulbright Fellow who had come to Notre Dame to teach Hindi before me, and to get to know about the presence of Hindi on campus. W hile the numbers and names eventually turn to anony mit y unless chronicled w ithin a literar y narrative or a stor y, I w ish that the language teaching experience here offers me a chance to explore new possibilities of building upon my personal narrative as a new and interesting beginning.
For the past five years back at my hometow n Lucknow in India, I had been study ing American culture during the years of my doctoral research, and now the American lands are bringing me closer to my Indian culture than ever before. As native speakers of our mother tongues, each one of us embodies the cultural impressions that transcend the lingual bounds of teaching, and learning a new language encapsulates the potencies of enhancing and diverging one’s ow n understanding of the dy namic intermingled worlds around us. As India and U.S. remain t wo distinct and diverse cultural origins, they remain similar in being a “melting pot” of hybrid cultural forms. W hile the campus architecture appears different, people speak different languages and the food tastes and preferences differ, I did not find much difference bet ween my hometow n and Notre Dame in terms of intercultural diversit y. As the Fulbright experience offers the dual role of a teacher and a student, I am yet to learn more about this as a student during my time here. More crucially and perhaps most informally, I am discovering the love of languages afresh here, w ith each day offering an opportunit y to learn a new utterance that resounds the familiarit y of my native language Hindi. For instance, I am learning Spanish from my neighbor Delia and last night I tried a Korean song w ith my f latmate Sunyoung. As a Fulbright cohort of seven Foreign Language Teaching Assistants
associated w ith the Center for the Study of Languages and Cultures this year, intercultural exchange remains an integral part of our stay here. September 5, is celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India to honor the birth anniversar y of Dr. Sar vepalli Radhakrishnan, one of the most remarkable Indian academicians who ser ved as the first Vice President and the Second President of India. The ‘Hindi’ w ithin me has been a product of my family, professors and friends whom I consider my teachers in different avenues of life. I miss being in India today but at the same time, I consider this an opportunit y to share my cultural identit y in both my first and second languages — Hindi and English. Hindi, my first language, has thus become closer to me in Notre Dame and the first part of my identit y here. W hether or not you have heard Hindi before, whether or not you have heard of India before, whether or not you recognize one of our Bolly wood mov ies or the greatest Hindi authors, I hope you enjoy hearing this language whenever or wherever you find a possibilit y. I do not w ish to discover Hindi speakers or Hindi lovers at Notre Dame, but I remain hopeful of discovering the love for foreign languages and the tremendous offerings they w ithhold ! Amrita Sharma Fulbright foreign language teaching assistant Sept. 5
We all must remember. Always. Recently, I read Blake Ziegler’s piece about inappropriate comparisons of coronav irus restrictions to the Holocaust by certain factions of American politics. I cannot emphasize enough the extent to which I agree w ith the sentiments Mr. Ziegler expressed. Indeed, it is beyond sickening that any member of the United States Congress could make light of the infamous yellow star forced on Europe’s Jews by National Socialist t y ranny. Yet, Mr. Ziegler already dealt w ith that particular issue and so I w ish to focus on some broader implications of the lack of Holocaust knowledge raised in his column. The Holocaust is the most v isceral demonstration of the depths of human deprav it y in histor y. In the course of just five years, two in ever y three of Europe’s Jews were murdered by the Na zi regime. Never before, nor mercifully since, did the world w itness such barbarit y, lending the Holocaust a unique place in histor y. However, it would be w rong to dismiss this horrendous human tragedy as something uniquely German, or even unique to Nazi fanatics. As historian Christopher R. Brow ning noted in his thoughtprovoking book, this murderous campaign was perpetrated by “ordinar y men.” Additionally, while the Holocaust originated w ithin the Third Reich, ever y nation on earth bears a degree of responsibilit y. Some collaborated actively, like Vichy France, some chose to stand by in idle neutralit y, like Sweden, and even those who
fought the Nazis, like the United States, ignored the pre-war warning signs, and turned away ships of German Jew ish refugees. Therefore, we all, as one human race, for all eternit y must carr y the burden of remembrance. It is for that reason, the enduring dut y to remember, that makes the disheartening trends in Mr. Ziegler’s article so worrisome. If 45% of Americans truly cannot name one concentration camp and 33% of Gen Z show even a hint of Holocaust denial, then we are failing in our obligation to always remember. As a histor y major, I have given significantly of my time study ing World War II to researching the Holocaust. I have seen the heartbreaking photos of people so thin their entire skeletons are v isible. I have read the accounts by sur v ivors describing how their single food bowl also had to double as their latrine. I have looked at the seemingly endless lists of names that do not even scratch the surface of the bloodshed. Such research never makes for light reading, and there are some things so disturbing I w ish I had never learned. That, however, is the problem — ignorance is comfortable while gaining knowledge is painful. In spite of that realit y, we must put ourselves into such discomfort, so we never shirk our responsibilit y to remember the tragedy of the Holocaust. As the former President of Germany, Richard von Weizsäcker said in his famous May
8, 1985 speech, “Remembering means recalling an occurrence honestly and undistortedly so that it becomes a part of our ver y beings.” In Germany in 1929, Jews enjoyed complete citizenship. Some ser ved in Parliament, others ran businesses, some taught at universities, some were musicians. A ll of Germany’s Jews, however, went about their lives as freely and peacefully as anyone else. The Constitution of the Weimar Republic guaranteed all citizens freedom of religion. By 1939, a German Jew could not, by law, enter a cinema, ow n a bicycle or sit on a park bench, and they were forced to wear the yellow star so casually bandied about by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. Few in 1929 could have imagined the dreadful mass-murder of the Holocaust, just as many today cannot imagine it happening again. There is, however, no guarantee that the events of the 1940s w ill not play out again, except a firm commitment by the world’s population to the mantra of “never again.” Ever y glib comment, ever y false comparison, ever y child improperly schooled erodes that sure defense. “Never again” was a deafening cr y in 1945, let us not now allow it to fade to an imperceptible whisper.
Follow us on Twitter: @ObserverViewpnt
Eoghan Fay junior Sept. 2
8
Sports
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
Sports Authority
Sports Authority
Build-A-Beer (snake) David Kramer Sports Writer
June 14th marked one of the first full-capacit y baseball games in nearly 21 months at Wrigley Field. Troves of Cubs fans, always restless for the shared sublimit y of summer baseball, poured into the bleachers w ith an all too familiar crav ing: overpriced and excessive amounts of beer. Drinkers attuned to the cra zes of social media banded together to construct the largest beer snake America has ever seen. Nothing, not even the intrusive securit y teams or abrasive bartenders turning the pesk y drunks away, would stop the “We want cups !” chant that per vaded the stands. With all said and done, fans gathered over 2,400 cups to build a foaming, dripping, 100 foot-long serpent, which analysts anticipate accounted for nearly $30,000 in beer sales throughout the stadium. At a glance, these figures feel insurmountable for any fanbase smaller than the ever-present Cubs loyalists. It goes w ithout say ing that coordination w ith a group of drunk finance bros that hold a hunk of plastic-like Inspector Clouseau would hold the Faberge egg is no mean task. But surely strength in numbers holds true for obscure records like the might y cup snake? The strange accolades of countless small minor league organizations prove other w ise. In 2018, the MiLB Eastern League A ll-Star Game saw a small faction of fans attempt the world record for the most chewing gum bubbles blow n simultaneously. Obscure feats from the world’s largest food fight to the largest group that was “Tebow ing” to the most people wearing a sock puppet in one venue are seemingly ever y where in MiLB. And most recently, in a tiny outfield section chock full of drunk beer enthusiasts, the St. Paul Saints surpassed the formerly unbreakable Cubs cup snake w ith a whopping 102 footlong serpent, an unofficial North American record. So what accounts for tiny fanbases shooting to notoriet y against the looming Goliath that is Major League Baseball? To a nearly unbearable extent, the fan experience in the modern MLB landscape remains deeply
restrictive, both in the way that MLB stadiums fail to facilitate good value creation and in the collective, unwavering baseball focus. The longstanding band of minor league faithful is draw n to affordable ticket prices and fun fan engagement opportunities throughout the ballpark. Instead of “selling out” ever y possible area of a small ballpark for corporate partners to operate daily, many minor league teams hold attractive spaces on reser ve for their personal activation or promotional use. With these spaces, MiLB teams have the leeway to promote just about whatever the fans desire — w ithin reason. This July, CHS Field in dow ntow n St. Paul embraced that leeway to the fullest and slowly erupted into an organized frenzy for empt y cups. James Mulvaney, Saints intern and head coordinator of the team’s beer snake attempt, inv ited local breweries to collect empt y cups at each corner of an unused plot of law n, conveniently adjacent to the ballpark’s “Craft Beer Corner” and the so-called “cup snake section.” Fans chose their first craft beer — included in a special Cup Snake ticket package — and delivered their empty cup to the corresponding brewer. $2 beer sales throughout the park, paired with f luorescent signs above recycling bins that shouted “Don’t throw away your cups! Add them to the beer snake!” left little room for uninformed fans. In a blueprint for obscure record-breaking success, the Saints integrated their social media team, broadcasters, front office executives and operations staff under an initiative to concentrate the fan experience into one electrifying corner of the ballpark. When squaring against their high-volume, high-revenue and hands-off competitors, the synergy facilitated by MiLB ballparks nourishes a rich landscape for value creation from every corner. Call it a f lash in the pan. Call it a gimmick. Call it whatever you’d like. But for organizations that suffer under thin margins and limited capacity, records keep the fun alive.
Predicting the NFL’s division winners Gehrig Smalstig Sports Writer
At the time I am writing this, As a college student at the University of Notre Dame, nothing gets me fired up like football season. While everyone knows that the college football atmosphere is unmatched, there’s not much that I love more than brushing away the Sunday Scaries with 10 straight hours of NFL football. With that in mind, I couldn’t think of a better time to look at the league as a whole and predict the division winners for the upcoming season.
AFC AFC East: Buffalo Bills
be picked over established contenders like the Ravens, Chiefs or Bucs.
AFC North: Ravens
Baltimore
While the Browns have a lot of talent, I don’t see them stacking up with the Ravens in the long run. Additionally, this seems to be a prime spot for the Steelers to take the final step back into a rebuild phase. The last five weeks of last season exposed their shortcomings and I don’t see them bouncing back in this good of a division. As for the Ravens, the loss of JK Dobbins will hurt their rushing attack, but Gus Edwards is more than ready to assume a starter’s role. Also, Lamar Jackson is still dynamic and their defense should be on par with their typically highperforming units.
I can’t move off of the Bills this year, but I think that this race could be a lot closer than many expect. The Patriots were the most affected by COVID opt-outs last year and should be reloaded on defense. Also, they now have offensive personnel that better fits their model of success that has led them to six titles over the past 20 years. For the Bills, Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs should keep up their league-leading production on offense, but the defensive side of the ball is where my attention will be. First round pick Gregory Rousseau, a DE out of Miami, could be their story of the year. If he can give them a more consistent pass rush, then I would feel much better about them keeping distance between themselves and the Patriots throughout the year.
While no one in this division has a complete team, the Titans offense is a unit that I can depend on to provide at least 9 wins. Ryan Tannehill, Derrick Henry, AJ Brown, Julio Jones and a solid O-line that will bring back Taylor Lewan — what’s not to love? The Colts should be their top competitor for this spot, but I hesitate to even say that considering the unknown status of Carson Wentz. Additionally, the Colts will be the first team ever to start the season playing 5 straight teams who won double-digit games the last season. It could be hard to recover from a rocky start.
AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs
NFC NFC East: Dallas Cowboys
The Chiefs will likely be slated to win this division for the next 15 years with Mahomes at the helm, and this year is no different. Their offense is undeniable and their defense has more than enough talent to thrive under the circumstances. The more interesting team in this division is likely the Denver Broncos. They have one of the better rosters in the league, top-to-bottom, but lack the elite quarterback play to
Much like the Titans in the AFC South, the Cowboys simply have the best unit in the division on the offensive side of the ball. I doubt the Eagles or Giants improve much from their last campaign, so the Washington Football Team will likely be the next team up. They showed f lashes of being able to compete with some of the best last season, but I can’t depend on Ryan Fitzpatrick over Dak Prescott to win the division.
AFC South: Tennessee Titans
NFC West: Los Angeles Rams W hile ever y team in this division looks good on paper, someone has to come out on top. The Rams have two of the best players in football on defense in Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Donald and just got an upgrade at quarterback. Stafford should thrive in Sean McVay’s system and is a sleeper pick to win the MVP. Overall, the Rams offer the most dependable roster and coaching staff, so I think they’re a safe bet to take this division and be the Buccaneers biggest challengers on the way to the Super Bowl.
NFC North: Green Bay Packers Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams on a mission is a scary sight for all of the league. Also, like the Rams, they also have a lethal combo at pass-rusher and corner in Za’darius Smith and Jaire Alexander, which is a recipe. I do like the Vikings and Bears to improve from their last season showings, but the reigning-MVP led Packers should not end up having problems winning the North like they have so many times in recent history.
NFC South: Tampa Bay Buccaneers This is the most foregone conclusion out of any of these predictions. Other teams in the division lost perennial All-Pro playmakers like Drew Brees and Julio Jones. In the meantime, the Buccaneers managed to be the only Super Bowl winner in history to return all 22 starters. Look for the Buccaneers to have a record setting-season in point-differential, and possibly wins. Tom Brady is settled-in and just as hungry as ever, as anyone would be if they ate the quinoa and kale salads that are included in his TB12 meal plan. Contact Gehrig Smalstig at esmalsti@nd.edu The views expressed in this Sports Authority are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
The Observer accepts classifieds every business day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Notre Dame office, 024 South Dining Hall. Deadline for next-day classifieds is 3 p.m. All classifieds must be prepaid. The charge is 5 cents per character per day, including all spaces. The Observer reserves the right to edit all classifieds for content without issuing refunds.
Contact David Kramer at dkramer2@nd.edu The views expressed in this Sports Authority are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Observer.
Wanted TUTOR: Local ND family needs strong tutor for our HS junior, up to 10 hrs/wk. Good rate. 574-299-3896.
It’s you and me / That’s my whole world / They whisper in the hallway, “she’s a bad, bad girl” (okay!) / The whole school is rolling fake dice / You play stupid games, you win stupid
prizes / It’s you and me / There’s nothing like this / Miss Americana and The Heartbreak Prince (okay!) / We’re so sad, we paint the town blue / Voted most likely to run away / With you
DAILY
ndsmcobserver.com | Monday, September 6, 2021 | The Observer
Crossword | Will Shortz
9
Horoscope | Eugenia Last Happy Birthday: Get ready to implement all the changes you want to make. Consider what needs updating, then start the ball rolling. Get your facts straight and papers in order, and put a smile on your face as you head in a direction that will encourage you to explore what life has to offer. An open mind, coupled with enthusiasm and desire, will promote happiness. Your numbers are 8, 13, 22, 27, 32, 36, 49. ARIES (March 21-April 19): You have more opportunities than you realize. Connect with someone who shares your interests or direction. You’ll be offered valuable information that can lead to a new, exciting position. A meaningful relationship will take a positive turn. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Spend more time on self-improvement and less trying to change or convert others to see things your way. Social events that include using your attributes to help a cause will have an impact on how others treat you. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Stick to the truth and question anything that sounds unrealistic. Pay attention to what others have to say, and you’ll be privy to information that can help you advance. Time spent with someone you love will help resolve pending problems. CANCER ( June 21-July 22): Act more and talk less. If you make promises you cannot keep, you will put a dent in your reputation. Learn from the experience you have regarding issues concerning joint ventures, contracts and medical issues. LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22): Absorb what’s going on around you, and offset negativity in whatever way you can. Look at your options, then consider how to use your skills and qualifications to suit the changing trends. A partnership will bring you closer to your goal. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Do some research, and you’ll find something that motivates you to improve your lifestyle. A change of heart will help you discover what you want to do next and give you the nerve to put your thoughts and plans in motion. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Charm, wit, socializing and exploring what life has to offer will set your imagination free to roam the possibilities ahead of you. Take responsibility for your happiness, and follow your heart to the place that makes you feel at home. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Take responsibility for your life and what you are up against, and you’ll realize what’s required to turn things around. Stop waffling and start knocking off what’s on your to-do list. You’ll be surprised how quickly the tide will turn. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You’ll have decisions to make and people to deal with who are challenging but worth your while. Don’t back down; if you want something, go after it wholeheartedly. It’s time to put the past behind you and live life your way. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Think outside the box, and you’ll come up with a progressive plan that will make your life easier. Set anyone straight who tries to talk you into something extravagant, and you’ll prosper. Negotiate a deal that sets you free. AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Good things are heading your way. Discuss your plans with someone you respect, and the input you receive will give you the incentive to pursue your goal. A moneymaking deal will pan out, and a promise made will be honored. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A chance to turn something you want to do into an adventure will attract attention and encourage someone you find inspiring to join you in your pursuit of happiness. Look at the possibilities, and put long-term plans in motion. Birthday Baby: You are energetic, resourceful and charismatic. You are adventurous and curious.
Sudoku | The Mepham Group
Jumble | David Hoyt and Jeff knurek
Support student journalism. Donate to The Observer. ndsmcobserver.com/donate
Square Comic | XXX
Work Area
Make checks payable to and mail to: The Observer P.O. Box 779 Notre Dame, IN 46556
Published Monday, Wednesday and Friday, The Observer is a vital source of
Enclosed is $130 for one academic year Enclosed is $75 for one semester
information on people and events in the Notre Dame, Saint Mary’s and Holy Cross communities. Join the more than 13,000 readers who have found The Observer an indispensable link to the three campuses. Please complete the accompanying form and mail it today to receive The Observer in your home.
Name Address City State Zip
10
Sports
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
XC
Football
Continued from page 12
Continued from page 12
w ith the race of redshirt freshman Carter Solomon. “He looked really good, and it was good to see him racing for us,” Carlson said. “In the future, I think he can be a big guy for us.” This was the first meet that spectators had been allowed at since the fall season of 2019, due to the COV ID-19 pandemic. Carlson described what it was like to have spectators back. “It was really good to see people’s parents able to watch the meet and friends able to come out to the meet which didn’t exist a year ago,” Carlson said. “For the guys, it’s important to have your support system there to cheer you on. I think a lot of guys really appreciated that.” The men’s team will be back in action at the National Catholic Invite in two weeks where there will be some more upperclassmen running, but the top runners for the Irish will not be racing until October. The women’s team also competed on Friday and took second place to Purdue in the team scores. The women were led by graduate student Maddie King, who placed second overall with a time of 17:27.4 in the 5K. The other top five finishers for the Irish included senior Jackie Gaughan (18:08.8), graduate student Erin Sullivan (18:11.6), graduate student Kaitlin Ryan (18:15.9) and sophomore Isalina Colsman (18:26.8).
too shabby considering he was rushed and hit five times and sacked four times throughout the course of the night. By the end of the third, the Irish held a prett y heart y lead over the Seminoles at 38-20. However, FSU ended the third quarter knocking on Notre Dame’s door and after a score and a t wopoint conversion they found themselves right back in it, 28-38. The Noles would stall the Irish offense on the ver y next drive and the pendulum seemed to be sw inging back in their favor. Irish junior punter Jay Bramblett was knocked dow n and spun around on the punt but the referees ruled the penalt y a less severe running into the kicker. This did not sit well w ith Irish special teams coordinator Brian Polian or head coach Brian Kelly who argued the call adamantly. The penalt y was declined and FSU would take over deep in their ow n territor y. Jordan Trav is would get hit hard and after losing his helmet the Noles were forced to send in senior McKenzie Milton. Milton’s first pass would be good for 22 yards and put the Noles
Contact Nate Moller at nmoller2@nd.edu
W Soccer Continued from page 12
Slattery, making her first career start for the Irish, held strong. However, on Sunday night, the unbeaten start to the season came to an end. Heading on the road to face the Missouri Tigers, the Irish were tested early — Milena Fischer opened the scoring for the Tigers just minutes into the match, and a little over ten minutes later Cassidy Nurnberger doubled the Mizzou lead. But in the second half, the Irish fought back — Sammi Fisher slotted home a penalty in the 75th minute before Korbin Albert equalized in the dying moments to send the match extra time. But it wasn’t to be for the Irish in extra time. Fischer struck again with an impressive blast from long range, walking the Tigers off in front of their home crowd. The loss drops the Irish to 4-1-1, and they’ll return home this week to face off with University of Detroit Mercy at 7 pm Wednesday at Alumni Stadium.
Mayer Continued from page 12
as Ian Book’s did the year before. “He does his thing, and I trust him with everything no matter if he drops one or makes a mistake,” Coan said. “He’s gonna respond, and he’s an absolute gamer.” The first drive of the game culminated in a touchdown from the tight end, and if this is any indication as to how he will perform throughout the season, the Irish have the assurance of a few miraculous plays on his account. The passing game, then, proved to be the best approach for Coan. In the first quarter alone, Coan’s three separate passes to Mayer yielded a 25, 41, and seven-yard gain, respectively. 74 yards in one quarter is as good an indicator as any that a strategy is working. On both of the scoring drives of the first half, Mayer’s ability to evade the
in scoring position. A few Milton passes later and a w ildcat formation from the goal line that resulted in a touchdow n and then the Seminoles were really back in it, 35-38. By the time the fourth quarter rolled around things were simply falling apart for the Irish, the defense seemed lost in the weeds and the offense had lost its mojo. FSU, though still dow n on the scoreboard, was commanding the game at this point and it would be up to the Irish defense to put the clamps dow n and put the game on ice. Milton was beginning to take complete control of the game. The Seminoles were knocking on the door again and the volume of the stadium was increasing steadily. It seemed as if FSU could really pull off an 18 point deficit w ith their ‘second-string.’ Milton would then let a snap past him on a pivotal thirddow n attempt. FSU didn’t come away from that drive completely empt y-handed though, booting in a 43yard game-t y ing field goal. Notre Dame would have 40 seconds to get on the board, and though a valiant effort would get them to around midfield it wasn’t sufficient.
Coan would throw his first interception of the night on a Hail Mar y attempt and the game would proceed into overtime. With extra time on the clock, the idea of a Notre Dame v ictor y was suddenly thrust back onto the table. The coin toss went Notre Dame’s way and they would elect to defend first. A shak y possession and a missed field goal from Florida State would really open the door for the Irish. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees w isely decided to keep it on the ground and get some yardage knocked off the impending game-w inning field goal attempt. Irish senior kicker Johnathan Doerer split the uprights from 41 yards out to give the Irish the w in. A stor ybook comeback for Milton was ruined as it was Notre Dame that walked away w ith a v ictor y. Coan finished his inaugural start w ith the Irish w ith 366 yards on 26-of-35 w ith four touchdow ns and one interception. Mayer was targeted 13 times and led the receiv ing corp w ith 120 yards. The Seminoles would however finish w ith more offensive yards than the Irish, most impressively their offensive line led their running back corp to rush
for 264 yards compared to Notre Dame’s 65 total rushing yards. The Noles drove home their ground attack strateg y to the tune of 48 attempts, 5.5 yards per attempt. Notre Dame was perfectly balanced in their attack w ith 35 run plays and 35 pass plays. The offensive line struggled to w ill the run game dow nfield as it has in years past, but on the f lip side; the passing game looked dangerous. Though it might have taken extra time to do it, the Irish found a definitive w in on the road against a goodlooking Florida State team in their season opener and as Brian Kelly puts it, “w inning is hard.” The game might have been decided by a few close calls and referee decisions but the Irish found a path to v ictor y and made a bit of histor y in the process: this was the first Notre Dame v ictor y in overtime on the road. Though it is special to be a part of histor y, Kelly is already turning his ga ze toward the future. “We know we’ve got work to do. I like this team, we’ll get better and we’ll make a lot of improvements in week two.”
FSU defense and create this option became instrumental for Notre Dame to get a shot at a touchdown. He may not always be the one soaring into the end zone, but he’s often one of the main reasons why they’re there to begin with, covering the large stretches of the field with a kind of reliability not many can match. Mayer’s effect on the game is also not limited to when he is in direct possession of the ball. Aside from the blocks that cleared the path for teammates like Chris Tyree to take advantage of, Coan began passing more in the second half after the success with Mayer in the first, and three out of five touchdowns were off of longer throws, not runs. “I think whenever you make plays, it helps settle you down and get you in a rhythm,” Coan said. Mayer was key in making this happen. Players like Kevin Austin were utilized to make the big passing plays that were
vital to the win as opposed to trying to pummel the way down the field with the running backs. Kyren Williams is a key piece of the offense, but sometimes the pieces don’t fit in the larger puzzle that is the game. Head coach Brian Kelly remarked after the game that the improvement of the running game will be a main focus this week because of this. “We’ve gotta run the ball better,” Kelly said. “We’re not here to throw the ball all over the yard and not have a solid running game too.” Compare the 366 passing yards to the mere 65 rushing yards for Notre Dame, and you cannot dispute Kelly’s intent heading into week t wo; w ith the running game only garnering 15% of the gains, it needs to be fine-tuned. Until then, for a team whose running game is lacking, the pressure and importance fall all the more on the receivers, meaning Mayer’s value in the receiving game only increases. W hen the nail-biting set
in at the end of the fourth quarter, Mayer was the move. He was the one getting the first look w ith 33 seconds of regular time left. The leap over the Seminole defenders only added some f lair to the level of gameplay he was performing at. Even though the next pass was incomplete, he was still the primar y option, because his teammates know that they can count on him. “He’s one of the best tight ends in the countr y, if not the best tight end,” Coan said, reaffirming his trust in his teammate. Ultimately, Mayer totaled 120 yards for the night, accounting for nearly onethird of the team’s receiv ing yards (32.8%). For someone to dominate one of the key facets of the offense shows that they are a talent that should not — and a lot of the time cannot — go unnoticed.
Write Sports.
Contact Jimmy Ward at wward@hcc-nd.edu
Contact Emily DeFazio at edefazio@nd.edu
Email Mannion McGinley a mmcginl3@nd.edu
Sports
ndsmcobserver.com | Monday, September 6, 2021 | The Observer
11
FANTASY CORNER
Observer Fantasy Corner week two: Who to start, who to sit, who to add By SAM OUHAJ, GEHRIG SMALSTIG, J. J. POST, JOHN KALEMKERIAN, JAMISON COOK and JUSTICE MORY Sports Writers
The National Football League is back! With the first game this Thursday between the Dallas Cowboys and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it w ill be intriguing to see how the season w ill unfold. This is also the week where millions of Fantasy Football fans w ill begin to understand their lineup and see if they made the right decision in drafting. We at the Fantasy Corner are here to prov ide helpful information to help you, and your lineup w in ever y game !
Orleans Saints (Owned in 66.7% of leagues)
Must sit: Ja’Marr Chase, W R, Cincinnati Bengals
John Kalemkerian
I love Chase’s talent and w ill defend the Bengals picking him more than most, but I don’t see him getting off to a hot start this year. He has had some confidence and drop issues in camp, and those usually don’t get resolved in someone’s first NFL start. Additionally, I think that Joe Burrow could be off of his best game coming back from injur y, especially while facing a disciplined Mike Zimmer defense. Overall, look for the Bengals to struggle on offense in week 1 and comfortably place Ja’Marr Chase on your bench.
Must start: Cooks, W R, Texans
Brandin Houston
W hile the QB situation in Houston is still a question mark, Cooks has been underrated the entire offseason. Even if Ty rod Taylor ends up starting under center, Cooks faces ver y little competition for touches (Chris Conley, Anthony Miller) and should end up seeing a heav y dose of targets against a poor Jaguars defense. On a Texans offense other w ise star ved for talent at the skill positions, Cooks is a strong f lex play this week.
Sam Ouhaj
Must sit: Jerr y Jeudy, W R, Denver Broncos
Must start: Tyler Boyd, W R, Cincinnati Bengals
This may come as a surprise considering Jeudy was drafted as a W R2 for most teams, but an opening matchup w ith the Giants does Jeudy no favors. He’ll be shadowed by lockdow n corner James Bradberr y, and for a secondyear w ideout who surpassed four receptions in only four games last season, that spells bust. The Broncos are also rolling w ith Teddy Bridgewater, who failed to top 300 passing yards in all but three games last season. Jeudy w ill get the chance to shine at some point in 2021, but find a better option to help w in your opening week.
Boyd was one of my most reliable starters last season, and while he won’t be a W R2 this year, he is still a solid f lex play despite the Bengals adding Ja’Marr Chase and already hav ing Tee Higgins. I like Tyler Boyd this week against a depleted Minnesota defense that has Patrick Peterson, who is getting up there in age. If this were four years ago, I wouldn’t mention Boyd, but that is not the case. Play Boyd at the f lex if you can, and be prepared to reap the benefits.
Must sit: Gerald Everett, TE, Seattle Seahawks Gerald Everett went from hav ing one of the worst QB’s in the league, Jared Goff, to a future Hall of Famer in Russell Wilson. It makes sense why the hy pe is there for him to be your ever yday starter, especially w ith how tight ends perform in Seattle, but I suggest you avoid him this week. W hile the Indianapolis Colts w ill be shak y on offense, their defense is one of the top units led by Darius Leonard. W hen Everett isn’t going up against a top defensive unit, he w ill easily be in my starting lineup.
Must add: Marquez Callaway, W R, New
Must add: Jakobi Meyers, W R, New England Patriots (Owned in 54.1% of leagues) Gehrig Smalstig Must start: Corey Davis, W R, New York Jets Corey Dav is had a fantastic year in 2020 and looks to be the number one option for the Jets in this upcoming season. I don’t have much faith in Zach Wilson and think he’ll likely turn the ball over a couple of times against a Panthers defense that is prone to big plays, but I do think he’ll lean on Dav is for easy production. Reports out of camp talk of grow ing chemistr y between the t wo and even the slightest bit of added confidence is huge for rookie QBs.
Must add: Campbell, Indianapolis Colts
Parris WR,
Someone has to emerge as the number one option for Carson Wentz in Indianapolis. W hile the consensus is that Michael Pittman Jr. w ill be the one to break out, I think there’s a good chance that Campbell gets just as much work. His injur y histor y is bad, but that is often looked at too much by many in the fantasy communit y. A lot of injuries are a product of poor luck, so hopefully, it’s Campbell’s time to have a healthy and productive season.
J.J. Post Must start: Brandon Aiyuk, W R, San Francisco 49ers There’s no need to overthink week one. Aiy uk was a top t went y receiver in PPR leagues last season and only seemed to get better as the year went on. He opens 2021 w ith a perfect matchup against a Detroit defense that was torched constantly last year. W hile the 49ers starting quarterback is still, as of this w riting a question mark, either Jimmy Garoppolo or Trey Lance should be able to get their leading receiver the ball w ithout much trouble against the Lions. Expect big numbers from the Aiy uk as the 49ers look for a statement opening w in and one of Garoppolo or Lance tries to cement themselves as the
starter.
Must sit: Mooney, W R, Bears
Darnell Chicago
I love Mooney and think you should absolutely get him on your team ASAP. I think he could be a leaguew inning sleeper pick if all goes right dow n the line. But this week is not the week to throw him in the starting lineup. It’s still unknow n precisely what share of the targets Mooney w ill be getting, and he’ll have to make his mark against arguably the leagues’ best defense — a more established option would be the smarter play for this week.
Must add: AJ Dillon, RB, Green Bay Packers Dillon is a popular pickup as a handcuff for fellow Packers back Aaron Jones, but if he’s available in your league you’d be well adv ised to get him on your roster early — the young back was efficient in his carries during his rookie season and Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur has show n a w illingness to spread carries around despite hav ing Jones at his disposal.
Jamison Cook Must start: Mike Davis, RB, Atlanta Falcons Dav is was probably one of the best waiver-w ire pickups of the season last year, and I think that his role in Atlanta is being discounted by many. He was a stud for the Panthers in the absence of CMC, and he now has the chance to dominate touches in a backfield that is part of a high octane offense. This can only mean good things for your fantasy team. Julio is gone, and the Falcons w ill have to rely on their new faces in TE Kyle Pitts and Dav is alongside star W R Calv in Ridley, so I expect another big year from Dav is.
Must sit: Josh Jacobs, RB, Las Vegas Raiders The Raiders play host to the Ravens in week one, and Baltimore’s sting y run defense makes Jacobs an immediately unappealing play. Pair that w ith the fact that the Raiders brought in Kenyan Drake in the offseason, and Jacobs’ role is ver y unclear. He should be the lead back in the Vegas backfield, but
you don’t want to find out the hard way. If Jacobs is the lead back and can imitate his earlyseason form from a year ago, then he is a weekly starter. Just give him a week out of your lineup to make sure.
Must add: Alex Mattison, RB, Minnesota Vikings (owned in 31% of leagues) Justice Mory Must start: Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars With new starting quarterback Trevor Law rence, the young Jaguars offense is poised to improve this season. The w ide receiver room lacks a clear number one, but Shenault w ill likely be on the receiv ing end of a good portion of the target share. He may even get some extra underneath looks w ith the injur y of teammate Trav is Etienne, who many expected to be involved in the screen game this season. Shenault closed out his 2020 rookie campaign w ith 4 double-digit PPR fantasy games over 5 weeks and is positioned as a solid f lex target this year, especially due to his run after catch abilit y.
Must sit: Kenny Golladay, WR, New York Giants Quarterback Daniel Jones is reason number one, but it is a major risk starting Golladay early in the season. Coming off an injur y, and missing the preseason due to a hamstring issue, it may be a few weeks until the volume and production pick up to where starting him is warranted. Additionally, a matchup against the Denver Broncos’ new secondar y that includes Kyle Fuller, Patrick Surtain II and Br yce Callahan, does him no favors.
Must add: Marquez Callaway, WR, New Orleans Saints (Owned in 66.7% of leagues) Contact Sam Ouhaj at souhaj@nd.edu, J. J. Post at jpost2@nd.edu, Jamison Cook at jcook22@nd.edu, Gehrig Smalstig at esmalsti@ nd.edu, John Kalemkerian at jkalemke@nd.edu and Justice Mory at jmory@nd.edu
12
The observer | Monday, September 6, 2021 | ndsmcobserver.com
FOOTBALL
WoMen’s Soccer
ND forces OT to seal season opener By JIMMY WARD Associate Sports Editor
A season opener away from home t y pically produces some ner ves for fans of Notre Dame football. These away season openers have — for the past few seasons at least — been characterized by shakiness and inconsistency. The opener at Florida State was no different. Things looked good for the Irish right from the getgo. Graduate student starting quarterback Jack Coan was able to find a w ide-open Michael Mayer who f lew into the end zone for a 41-yard touchdow n on the opening drive of the game. It was one of the most complete drives for the Irish on the day. Mayer, the sophomore tight end, was a diamond in the rough for the Irish all day. The drive ate up just over t wo minutes of clock. Five plays and 75 yards would not look easier for the Irish for the rest of the evening. The t wo teams would trade
Irish split weekend 1-1 against Purdue, Mizzou
possession the next few drives, but it was FSU who would find the end zone next; rather surprisingly. FSU sophomore JaShaun Corbin found a seam in the Irish defense that let him slip by for an 89-yard touchdow n. FSU would also open the scoring in the second quarter and would give themselves a 14-7 lead w ith 10 minutes left in the quarter. The Irish would really find a groove in the second half. Fueled by some big chunk plays on offense and a pair of interceptions from junior safet y Kyle Hamilton, the Irish looked like a much more cohesive group than they did in the first half of action. As the first quarter dragged on the Irish really began to run it up on the Seminoles. Noles starting quarterback Jordan Trav is was forced to deal w ith a swarming Irish defense all night. He would end the night w ith three interceptions, which isn’t see FOOTBALL PAGE 10
Observer Sports Staff
Courtesy of Notre Dame Athletics
Irish graduate student midfielder Camryn Dyke sends the ball downfield during Notre Dame’s 2-0 win over Syracuse on Oct. 4.
Football
On Thursday night Notre Dame’s women soccer continued their unbeaten start to the season, dispatching the Purdue Boilermakers 1-0 at home to move to 4-0-1. Olivia Wingate was the difference-maker for the Irish, as she rose above the Boilermaker defense to head home a cleverly designed corner kick for the winner. The assists to set up the goal were plenty deserving of credit as well — Sammi Fisher delivered a strong cross to the far post to find Eva Wirtz and Wirtz’s header was perfectly weighted into the center for Wingate to finish off. The game wasn’t without a few late scares for Notre Dame’s as Purdue and their star forward Sarah Griffith threatened the net with near misses on more than one occasion late on, but in the end, a stout Notre Dame defense and goalkeeper Kaylin see W SOCCER PAGE 10
cross Country
Playmaker Mayer holds team’s trust against FSU
ND earns perfect meet score
By EMILY DeFAZIO
By NATE MOLLER
Associate Sports Editor
Sports Writer
From the moment his cleats touched the field in Tallahassee, Michael Mayer defined himself as an invaluable asset for Notre Dame. Though a couple of incomplete passes proved painful for Irish fans — causing “fifteen extra minutes of heart failure,” as our ver y ow n Aidan Thomas experienced — the contributions out weighed the struggles in this one. In the words of quarterback Jack Coan himself: “he’s our guy.” Mayer is a reassuring presence for his teammates. The rather large shift from the 2020 to the 2021 offensive makeup needs this kind of constant on the field to be the link between the two. W hen the running back option fails, Coan’s eyes immediately search for # 87, just
NATHANIAL GEORGE | The Observer
see MAYER PAGE 10
Irish sophomore tight end Michael Mayer hurdles an FSU defender during Notre Dame’s 41-38 win over the Seminoles.
The Notre Dame men’s and women’s cross countr y teams kicked off their season this past weekend at the Winrow-Valparaiso Open. Despite holding out their top runners from the race, the men’s team had a ver y stellar performance and recorded a perfect score at the meet. The top five finishers for the men in the 6K were senior Zach Kreft who finished w ith a time of 18:30.6, followed closely by junior Quinn Gallagher at 18:30.7. Then, junior Henr y Chapman, sophomore Lisandro Berr y-Gav iria and sophomore Carter Solomon all crossed the finish line w ithin the same tenth of a second at 18:31.0, a feat not terribly common in a cross countr y race. Notre Dame men’s head coach Sean Carlson was ver y
pleased w ith his team’s abilit y to run in a pack and finish the race together. “It was good to see our younger guys gaining more experience in running the Notre Dame way. The Notre Dame way is to run as a team. We did a really good job of that,” Carlson said. The course was prett y f lat, which, due to the lack of hav ing to change their running form or pace for hills, made for fast times. “It was a prett y f lat course. It rained a little bit, so the grass was wet, but the conditions overall were ver y nice,” Carlson said. Carlson was happy w ith the way his team stuck to the race strateg y. “They went out really patient and sat behind Purdue’s pack for the first half of the race, so the pacing was really even,” Carlson said. Carlson was ver y pleased see XC PAGE 10