The Villanovan | Volume 111, Issue 15: October 28, 2020

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2020 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

STUDENT-RUN SINCE 1916

VOLUME 111 | ISSUE 15

VOTE: THE VILLANOVAN’S 2020 VOTING GUIDE p. 8 & 9 COVID-19 Tracker p. 2

Exclusive Interview with Gene Mitchell, Owner of Popular Restaurant & Bar Kelly’s Taproom

Public Safety Blotter p. 2 Amy Coney Barrett Confirmed to the Supreme Court p. 3 Pope Francis Supports Same-Sex Civil Unions p. 3 Biden and Trump Clash in Final Debate p. 3 Spring Schedule and Student Disdain p. 5 Letter to the Editors: Get Out to Vote p. 6 Lancaster Avenue: The ‘Stroad’ Holding Bryn Mawr Back from Success p. 7 Senior Erin Gresh Bakes Campus by Storm p. 10 Interview with Rising Star Stan Genius p. 11 A Guide to Dressing like Your Favorite Celebrity p. 12 Club Spotlight: Business of Fashion Society p. 13 Men’s Basketball Team Votes Early p. 14 Swim and Dive Teams Kick off Caritas Cup p. 14 Community Mourns Loss of Men’s Basketball Star Jim Huggard p. 15 Football Announces Six-Team Spring Schedule p. 15

Kelly’s current quietness is a drastic contrast to its once vibrant atmosphere.

Courtesy of Philly2Night

Elena Rouse Staff Writer

Kelly’s Taproom, the pinnacle of University nightlife for upperclassmen, has been a hot topic this semester. Since the pandemic struck, the beloved Kelly’s has kept its doors closed to the public, becoming a source of upset for many students. The continuation of the shutdown has caused waves in the school and greater community, stirring rumors about the bar’s fate and why it continues to stay closed. With so many questions needing answers, The Villanovan reached out to the bar’s owner, Gene Mitchell. The Villanovan received the rundown on all things Kelly’s, finally getting the answers the students have been desiring.

Mitchell, a University alumnus, was well aware of the threat of the pandemic before it hit the United States, due to his primary work in international business. He often works with China, as the Director of International Trade for Tricon Energy, a company responsible for selling fuel primarily from U.S. oil refineries to end users around the world. Mitchell knew that the impending COVID-19 pandemic could affect his secondary business before many business owners in the states knew what was coming.

However, despite his previous awareness about the spread of the virus, when the moment came to shut down the bar, Mitchell admitted, “It was painful for us.”

As with countless

small business owners across the country, the arrival of the pandemic caused great trouble for Kelly’s employees.

Luckily, Mitchell has another source of income to sustain himself, but many of his employees bear the hardships of the closing.

“Most of our bartenders are full-time people,” Mitchell said. “I would say more than 50 percent of them; it’s their primary income. It’s been stressful for them, but again, they’ve been resilient and they have taken opportunities where they could and have looked to other avenues to make ends meet, but they’re definitely looking to come back.”

With the substantial consequences of closing the bar, many have wondered why Kelly’s has not followed the footsteps of other restaurants, creating an adjusted system of operation that complies with pandemic regulations. Mitchell was able to give his perspective on the situation, shedding light on his reasons for keeping Kelly’s shut down.

“Well, a couple of things,” Mitchell said. “One is that we’re under a high degree of scrutiny from the Township, and anything we do is going to be monitored very closely.”

Mitchell also mentioned his concerns about the difficulty of crowd control.

The line for the bar is infamously long in regular times, let alone if limited capacity was to be put in place.

No matter how Mitchell tried to create a solution, he kept finding that opening his bar in the current state of the country

would be “extremely difficult.”

Of course, there have been rumors among University students that Kelly’s Taproom might have had other reasons to stay barred from the public. The rumor around campus has been that the University, in an effort to keep COVID-19 cases to a minimum, gave the bar an incentive to stay closed. University administrators, like Dean of Students Tom Demarco and Assistant Dean of Students Nicholas Tumolo, have denied the allegations, but not until now has there been a response about the controversy from the owner of the business in question.

When confronted about the student theory, Mitchell laughed.

“I can absolutely confirm to you, that is not the case,” Mitchell said with amusement.

Mitchell admitted that he had not previously heard the rumor and that, as a Class of 1989 graduate, he would not feel it honorable to put his alma mater in such a position. He described his relationship with the school as a respectful partnership, and as a partner, he would not want to create that type of dynamic.

As for the future of Kelly’s, Mitchell stated that the business will eventually move forward in opening up its doors.

“At some point, we’ve gotta take a step and move towards reopening, we can’t stay closed much longer,” Mitchell said. “I think that we just need to choose what the right time is and what the right steps are and put rules

in place that are very clear.”

Mitchell has safety at the core of all his reasoning, hoping that the reopening of the bar will bring an understanding of the most efficient COVID-friendly regulations.

Mitchell also mentioned plans for new outdoor dining, an addition awaiting approval by the Township.

Although 2020 will not see the reopening of the bar, Mitchell is confident that the bar will reopen in 2021. When inquired about his confidence levels about seniors seeing the inside of Kelly’s before graduation, Mitchell responded with a resounding “100% percent.”

Even though Kelly’s has kept its doors closed, the bar still looks out for the Villanova community. Mitchell recounted the virtual toasts they have done and gifts they have sent for students who have turned 21 since the start of the pandemic. Also, he expressed a goal he had for the recent 2020 graduates whose last semester was taken.

“It was really tough for the seniors last year,” he said. “We gotta do something special for those guys; they can’t just be forgotten. When the time is right, there will be the right time to have the right party, and we’ll make sure to support those efforts so everybody has a good time.”

Kelly’s is still very much here. One thing Mitchell made clear was that Kelly’s is for the community.

More than anything, the bar “is really about the students” and, when fate permits, those students will flock to the venue to once again find joy within the beloved walls.

2 | The Villanovan

News Opinion Culture Sports

1 5 10 14

PUBLIC SAFETY BLOTTER

VOL. 111 | ISS. 15 www.villanovan.com @thevillanovan

EMILY COX TYLER KEMP ARIANA MEGERIAN RYAN HARMS CATE McCUSKER JACK ROBERGE GRANT CARTER A.J. FEZZA MADDIE BURKE BILLY VINCI HELENA ERNST MOLLY BAKER CHRISTINA IGLESIAS

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

NEWS

Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Digital Editor News Editor News Editor Opinion Editor Culture Editor Culture Editor Sports Editor Sports Editor Photography Editor Copy Desk Chief Copy Desk Chief

MICHAEL BRADLEY Advisor DEENA SMITH Advisor CONTACT villanovan.eic@gmail.com

Disorderly Conduct / Liquor Underage / Public Drunkenness October 14 South Campus Grounds A female resident student, under the age of 21, appeared in public acting disorderly and was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.

Paraphernalia / Possession - Marajuana October 21-22 W-2 Resident Student Lot Three female residents students and one non-affiliated female were in possession of a small amount of marijuana, THC cartridges, and paraphernalia.

Sexual Assault October 18 On-Campus Residence Hall A female resident student reported that she was sexually assaulted by a known male resident student.

Public Drunkenness October 22 Friar Hall A female resident student, over the age of 21, appeared in public and was evaluated for alcohol intoxication.

Factual errors are corrected as soon as they are brought to The Villanovan’s attention. Please send an e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com to report errors.

Last Day with Authorized Withdrawl without Academic Penalty October 28 All Day

CAT Halloween Movie Night October 30 10:00 p.m.

In-person, The Oreo

Boo! and Brews (21+) October 31 7:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

In-person, The Ellipse

Black Lives and the Legacy of George Floyd: A Conversation October 29 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Virtual

Relay for Life October 30 11:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

In-person, Mendel Field

CAT Glow in the Dark Mini Golf October 31 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

In-person, The Oreo

CAT Pumpkin Patch and Painting October 31 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

In-person, The Oreo

GWS Documentary Night: The Vote, Part II November 2 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Virtual

One Love Escalation Workshop October 29 6:00 p.m.

Virtual St. Mary’s Spooktacular October 29 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

In-person, St. Mary’s Hall

Boo! Palooza October 31 7:00 p.m.

In-person, Mendel Field

CONFIRMED POSITIVE CASES AS OF 8:00 P.M. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27

241

Villanova University

13,269

CORRECTIONS

CAMPUS CALENDAR

COVID-19 TRACKER

Delaware County, Pennsylvania

195,695 Pennsylvania

Let’s Vote ’Nova Transportation to the Polls November 3 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

In-Person, Connelly Center

8,968,112 United States

43,875,185 Worldwide

President Trump Doubts Nation’s Leading Experts Lydia McFarlane Staff Writer

With the change of the seasons and the approaching winter months, doctors are expressing their concerns regarding the pandemic.

The United States has more cases and deaths than any other country in the world, but President Trump has made a claim that the pandemic is coming to an end here in America. Many Americans are unhappy with the president’s handling of the pandemic and blame the death toll and high percentage of cases on his refusal to acknowledge the severity of the virus, the importance of wearing masks and social distancing.

“Having people wear a mask is not something the public should struggle with,” Jenn Patron, a student in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University, said. “It doesn’t help seeing Trump downplaying this pandemic and not prioritize mask wearing himself.”

Although unhappy with the government’s handle on the virus, future healthcare professionals, like Mia Morales, a nursing student at the the University, are proud of other healthcare workers.

“Even though I do not appreciate people’s reactions to masks, I absolutely appreciate the effort and love from our doctors and nurses,” Morales said. “It makes me proud to be a nurse.”

Throughout the course of the pandemic, Trump has been quick to attack the nation’s top infec-

tious disease specialists. The nation’s leading expert on the subject is Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has served the nation as Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984. He has held this position through six presidencies and has worked through several of the country’s epidemics and health crises, becoming a leading figure throughout the coronavirus pandemic. However, Trump has clashed with Fauci since the pandemic first started in the U.S. in March.

While Trump has publicly denounced Fauci’s professional advice throughout the pandemic, Fauci has also not been hesitant to call out the president’s misleading comments regarding the virus. As cases continue to rise and Americans continue to die, Trump continues to attack professionals, like Fauci, for trying to advise him through this virus.

Last week, tensions between Trump and Fauci began to heat up

once again.

Trump angrily responded to an interview Fauci gave on “60 Minutes” on Sunday night. Trump began to spew negative comments regarding Fauci. He insulted his age and insinuated that he is uneducated.

“People are tired of hearing Fauci and these idiots, all these idiots who got it wrong,” Trump said.

Fauci and the other leading doctors are attempting to protect the American people during this global health crisis, and Trump continues to attack them for it. America has been in a conflict of who to believe — doctors or the president.

“I trust the scientists and doctors far more than the president,” Patron said. “It’s a no brainer that these groups understand the virus way more than a politician would.”

“Fauci is a disaster. I mean, this guy, if I listened to him, we

President Trump at the final debate.

Courtesy of The New York Times

would have 500,000 deaths,” Trump said in the same comments about Fauci.

Fauci has encouraged mask wearing, social distancing and lockdowns in places that have become virus hotspots, so it is unclear how more deaths would be caused by listening to leading scientists.

According to The Hill, Fauci responded to Trump’s attacks by referencing the Godfather, saying, “Nothing personal, strictly business as far as I’m concerned. I just want to do my job and take care of the people of this country.”

Fauci went on to say he is not trying to make it seem as if he and Trump are against each other; he is doing his best to work with the president to handle this virus. Americans are questioning Trump’s attacks on Fauci and people who stress the danger of the virus, as Trump has just recently recovered from the virus himself.

“These attacks were ridiculous,” Morales said. “The president is not a doctor or a medical professional, so he has no place to call a doctor an idiot.”

Many believe since Trump just had the virus, he would be taking the pandemic more seriously, but his recovery from the virus seems to have inflamed his belief that the virus is not as serious as the doctors and experts make it seem.

As the election and winter months approach, Trump and his leading infectious disease experts continue to battle on how to properly handle the coronavirus pandemic.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

The Villanovan | 3

NEWS

Amy Coney Barrett Confirmed to the Supreme Court Alexandra Spath Staff Writer

Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States on Monday evening, with only a week left until Election Day. Her confirmation is the culmination of an unprecedented five-week push by Senate Republicans to replace the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Barrett’s nomination cements a 6-3 conservative majority in the Supreme Court and will shift the Court to the right for years to come.

Barrett was confirmed in a 52-48 vote, with all Senate Republicans but one – Susan Collins of Maine – voting in support. Senate Democrats unanimously opposed the confirmation, marking the first time since 1869 that a justice was confirmed without a single supporting vote from the minority party.

President Trump almost immediately hosted a swearing-in ceremony on the White House lawn, during which Justice Clarence Thomas administered the Constitutional

oath to Barrett.

Barrett joins Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh as President Trump’s third confirmed nominee to the Supreme Court. Trump is the first president since Ronald Reagan to fill three Court seats. Barrett’s confirmation is a huge victory for Trump, looking to boost his campaign days before the presidential election.

Barrett has served as an appeals court judge for three years and has taught as a Professor of Law at the University of Notre Dame Law School. She was also a clerk for former Justice Antonin Scalia, who was notable for his conservative rulings.

A devout Catholic, Barrett’s commitment to her faith is reflected in her conservative stances on several major issues. Her confirmation was met by alarm from pro-choice groups, concerned with the threat Barrett poses to the landmark abortion rights case Roe v. Wade.

Barrett also joins Justices Thomas and Alito in her disagreement with the 2015 decision

Obergefell v. Hodges, which ruled that gay and lesbian couples

have a constitutional right to marry under the 14th Amendment.

The addition of Barrett to the Court has sparked fear in the

LGBTQ+ community that this landmark case will be overturned.

Barrett’s rushed confirmation process has sparked outrage among Senate Democrats, who oppose the filling of a Supreme Court seat so close to the election. Democrats have leveled accusations of hypocrisy against Senate Republicans, who in 2016 refused to hold hearings for Obama’s nominee Merrick Garland on claims that the filling of Scalia’s seat was also too close to the election.

Obama’s nomination of Garland came nearly eight months prior to Election Day.

Senate Democrats tried desperately to slow down Barrett’s confirmation process. They boycotted a vote to advance the nomination process and attempted to adjourn the Senate before the confirmation vote.

Despite such efforts, the Republican majority in the Senate meant Barrett’s confirmation was all but inevitable.

Senate Republicans insisted it was their right as majority party to move forward with the nomination, regardless of proximity to Election Day and the 60 million votes that have already been cast.

“What this administration and this Republican Senate has done is exercise the power that was given to us by the American people in a manner that is entirely within the rules of the Senate and the Constitution of the United States,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said when responding to criticisms.

Senate Democrats have warned that Republicans will regret confirming Barrett if they win back the majority. Calls to end the filibuster and expand the number of seats on the Court will mean broad systemic changes should the Democrats take control of the Senate.

Barrett’s influence may be felt immediately as cases regarding the validity of mail-in ballots in swing states await the Supreme Court. Cases on abortion rights, same-sex marriage and the Affordable Care Act are soon to follow.

Carolyn DeWitt Addresses Pope Francis Supports the Importance of Voting Same-Sex Civil Unions Jack Birle Staff Writer

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the University’s Center for Peace and Justice hosted its annual Oscar Romero Solidarity lecture series.

The annual event typically takes place in the spring, but it was postponed until the fall semester, due to the outbreak of COVID-19 in March. The lecture was held via Zoom due to coronavirus restrictions.

Carolyn DeWitt, of the organization “Rock The Vote,” was selected as a speaker for the event, which was planned to honor Romeo’s feast day in March but changed to discussing voting and political participation.

Rock The Vote was founded in 1990 by music executives with the initial message: “Censorship is Un-American.” It claims to be a non-partisan organization aimed at registering young people to vote and fighting voter suppression of young voters.

DeWitt’s lecture, titled “Does Voting Even Matter?” discussed the importance of voting in every election.

She began by explaining the “no justice, no peace” chant, which has been prominent at nationwide protests this year. DeWitt connected the chant to sparking change and voting.

“It was first started in the 1980s with the protests of ethnic violence and the murder of Michael Griffith in 1986 and obviously continues in the call for justice across our country right now,” DeWitt said. “The state of justice or injustice…influences our chances for peace; there is no peace until there is justice.”

Voting suppression and the right to vote were also key points of DeWitt’s lecture. She stressed the importance of the Voting

Rights Act of 1965, which ensured the right to vote to all eligible citizens.

DeWitt continued by discussing the significance of the Shelby County v. Holder Supreme Court case in 2013. This case ruled section 4(b) of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 unconstitutional, a section that dealt with determining if jurisdictions served as bad actors and violated anti-discrimination protections in the Voting Rights Act. The Court ruled the section as unconstitutional because the formula had not been updated with new data in over 40 years.

“Seven years later, Congress has not updated [the] formula… therefore no jurisdiction meets the formula, because there is no formula, no jurisdiction is deemed a bad actor, therefore no jurisdiction has to ask permission before it changes anything to its voting laws,” DeWitt said.

She said the lack of a formula to determine bad actors has led to increased attempts at voter suppression. DeWitt called for everyone to use their right to vote.

She also touched on the importance of using this right to vote before it can get taken away. She promoted initiatives that Rock The Vote supports, including restoring the formula for the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

She ended the lecture by discussing how to register to vote and how to research candidates before voting.

Rock The Vote has voter information available on its website (rockthevote.com), and information regarding voting in Pennsylvania can be found at pa.gov.

Voting registration for the 2020 election in Pennsylvania has completed, but students at the University will be provided with transportation to polls to vote on Election. This year, Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Cate McCusker Co-News Editor

In the new documentary film “Francesco,” Pope Francis, Bishop of Rome and leader of the Roman Catholic Church, expressed support for same sex civil unions.

Directed by Evgeny Afineevsky, the film debuted las Wednesday at the Rome Film Festival. The two hour film, which follows the life of Pope Francis and his work in the Church, has received global attention for one comment by the Pope.

According to NPR, Pope Francis said, “Homosexuals have a right to be a part of the family.

They are children of God and have a right to a family. What we have to create is a civil union law. That way they are legally covered.”

Many are pleased with Pope Francis’ comments and see this as a step in the right direction for the Church. Marianne Duddy-Burke, executive director of DignityUSA, an organization representing LGBTQ Catholics, explained that this could help keep the LGBTQ community safer.

“I’m very conscious of the tremendous impact that this could have, particularly for queer people in countries where there are no legal protections at this point, where they are very much subject to violence and to social marginalization,” Duddy-Burke said to NPR.

Singer Elton John expressed his support through an Instagram post.

“Giving your blessing to same sex civil unions is a major step towards equality, and a foundation for which countless others can enjoy the same protections and happiness,” John said. “God bless you.”

However, others are upset with Pope Francis and believe that his comment will only confuse Catholics.

Pope Francis smiles at a crowd.

Courtesy of CNN

“The Pope’s statement clearly contradicts what has been the longstanding teaching of the church about same-sex unions,” Thomas Tobin, Bishop of Providence, RI, said to The New York Times.

This is not the first time that Pope Francis has made positive comments about the gay community. According to The Times, the Pope responded, “Who am I to judge?” when asked about a gay priest in 2013. In 2018, Pope Francis said, “God made you this way and loves you this way, and the Pope loves you this way” to Juan Carlos Cruz, a Chilean sexual abuse survivor and gay person featured in the documentary.

Although these comments do not mean that the Church will be changing its teachings on the LGBTQ community, the Pope’s comments are influential. Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, an organization of LGBT Catholics, explains that Pope Francis’ statement is important.

“A pope sets the tone for the Church, and what he is doing is signaling to bishops and Church leaders that a welcome for gay and lesbian couples has to go forward,” DeBernardo said to The Times.

4 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

NEWS

Biden and Trump Clash in the Final Presidential Debate Julia Butch Staff Writer

The final presidential debate took place last Thursday at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. While the tone was generally calmer than the first debate, tensions still rose on key issues.

For the first time in history, microphones were muted while opponents were answering questions.

As ABC News noted, “The Commission on Presidential Debates threatened in advance of the event Thursday night to cut off the microphone of any candidate trying to interrupt the other during this go-around.”

Questions covered everything from COVID-19 to the economy, but the biggest claims were made on the topic of the environment.

Fracking, fossil fuels and oil-drilling have been key topics during this election cycle, and they came to a head during the debate. In fact, the word “fracking” was repeat-

ed 15 times.

President Donald Trump accused former Vice President Joe Biden of changing his stance on fracking, as Biden initially opposed it and then changed his tone while campaigning in PA. Meanwhile, Trump has been an unequivocal supporter.

In the state of Pennsylvania, even many Democrats, whose party nationally includes vocal environmentalists who oppose fracking, support the industry, one example being Pennsylvania Rep. Conor Lamb, a Democrat. His March 2018 special election victory in a Republican-leaning district near Pittsburgh, where fracking is important to the local economy, was seen by many analysts a sign that Democrats might do well in the mid-term Congressional election later that year.

Many are predicting that Biden’s fluctuating stance on the subject may hurt him. Not only that, but Biden also said he would transition away from the oil industry.

“Biden royally screwed up

when he basically stated that he is going to phase out the oil industry,” Tom Stavitzski, a PA teacher, told Newsweek in an email. “I thought that statement was outrageous and will be very costly.”

When he affirmed this speculation, Trump capitalized on it.

“Basically, what he is saying is he’s going to destroy the oil industry,” Trump said. “Will you remember that, Texas? Will you remember that, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma?”

These statements could have an impact in key battleground states.

With national cases spiking, the moderator also asked about COVID-19.

Biden focused on Trump’s lack of strategy, claiming that “Anyone who’s responsible for that many deaths should not remain as president of the United States of America.”

“We’re about to go into a dark winter,” Biden said.

Meanwhile, Trump stuck to his message, stating, “The cure can’t be worse than the problem.”

Trump said that the nation needed to continue opening the economy, adding, “We can’t close up our nation, or you’re not going to have a nation.”

“We closed up the greatest economy in the world in order to fight this horrible disease from China,” Trump said about his decision to close the border when the pandemic started.

He also appealed to Americans on a more personal level.

“I can tell you from personal experience, I was in the hospital, I had it,” he said. “I was in for a short period of time, and I got better very fast, or I wouldn’t be here tonight.”

At this point, more than 60 million pre-election votes have already been cast, and 33 states have reportedly passed their pre-election vote totals since 2016. Trump and Biden are still running neck-andneck in a number of key states, and a boost on the margins due to this debate could be all that’s needed for a candidate to tip the scales in the direction of a victory.

National Science Founda- Dr. Matthew Kerbel Hosts tion Awards the University What Happens Next Lecture Sarah Wisniewski Staff Writer

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded $377,595 to the University for the acquisition of a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer to enhance undergraduate research and teaching in Chemistry in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The NSF is an independent federal agency that works to promote the progression of science not only in universities but also in the private industry and other development centers. In 2020, the annual budget of the NSF was nearly $8.3 billion. About 78% of that went to fund research at colleges, universities and academic consortia. Of all federally supported basic research conducted at colleges and universities in the United States, the NSF sources about 25% of that funding.

The University will use its award to fund the cost of the new instrument being brought to campus.

A mass spectrometer with liquid chromatography combines the benefits of two methods in order to effectively analyze samples in biological research. The mass spectrometry is a key analytical method utilized for its ability to identify and characterize small quantities of chemical species in complex samples. The other half of the method containing the liquid chromatograph allows mixtures to be initially separated prior to being used in the mass spectrometer.

With the NSF award, the University will receive a quadruple time-of-flight mass spectrometer equipped with a liquid chromatograph. Having the instrument will further support the research and education of students and faculty in the Chemistry department, but

also students studying Chemical and Biological Engineering.

The new instrument will be housed in the Mendel Science Center and will immediately be utilized by faculty and students in research, and all are excited to use the instrument and observe its beneficial impact on their work.

“It’s the last ‘piece of the puzzle’ for our instrumentation suite, which now benefits from three NSF grants,” Kevin Minbiole, Ph.D., professor and chair of Chemistry, said. “Altogether, it’s a state-of-the-art suite for molecular characterization, supporting a vibrant department with 10 active NSF grants, plus other groups onand off-campus.”

Its specific use on campus will include developing methods of paint pigment analysis for art conservation, the testing of the effectiveness of the insecticide imidacloprid and its metabolites on the hemlock woolly adelgid, and the impact of these compounds on native pollinators. The instrument will also be used for understanding the process of protein degradation, as well as for elucidating host cell response to gene therapy.

The instrument has been used in research outside of the University in mainly forensics and toxicology screening. Commonly, the liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometer allows for drug screening in clinical settings to improve patient care and guide new treatments. The instrument allows for more extensive data to be recorded in research, including appropriate sensitivity and specificity during clinical interpretation. The specific version of the instrument the University will have available, has been favored in the chemistry and biology field for its ability to cut time and cost in researching.

The benefits of the instrument have allowed for challenges of rapidly changing drug landscapes to be resolved in part.

From the 10-point lead that Biden currently has over Trump, citizens can see that at the moment that the public opinion seems to be

The Falvey Memorial Listraying away from a Trump reelecbrary hosted its second lecture in the tion.

2020 Presidential Election Virtual

If polling is correct with a Series on Thursday, Oct. 22. Giv10-point Biden lead, America might en by Matthew Kerbel, Ph.D., the see a wave election, according to lecture focused on the “State of the Kerbel. Not only do many circumContest, Election Day and What stances on the national level eclipse Happens Next.” It sought to explain local issues, but these problems can the importance of polling in the translate to gains for the Democrat2020 election and the possibility of ic Party. The nation experienced a there being a wave election, which is blue wave in 2018, and while Kerbel when national circumstances overstated that it is unlikely to experience ride local ones in the minds of voters. two waves in a row, it is also unlikely

As far as polling, Kerbel that the president makes minimal explained that this section could be changes after that wave. sponsored by the number 42. So

There are necessary prefar in 2020 public polling, President requisites to a wave that Kerbel Trump has been holding steady outlined in his lecture. First, analysts around 42%, while Joe Biden was at agree that the House is not in play, 52.2% at the time of the lecture, ac- meaning that it will remain blue. cording to fivethirtyeight.com. Biden In the Senate, Republicans have to fortified his lead after the first deprotect more seats than Democrats, bate on Sept. 29, following Trump’s including seats in Alaska, Kansas and COVID-19 diagnosis.

South Carolina. It is also known that

This stability sp far contrasts undecided voters tend to break away with the 2016 election, which was from the incumbent at the end of volatile in polling. Another facet of a cycle. Another vital aspect is how 2020 polling that Kerbel recognized Biden is doing with select demowass that there are no appreciable graphics. Biden trends strongly with third party candidates on the balwomen voters. Kerbel believes that lot, and at this point, there are very this election might show the largest few undecided voters. This settled gender gap in history. electorate is in opposition to the

Kerbel speculated that unsettled environment of the United Americans may see the largest voter States. turnout in the last 100 years; there is

This idea of 42 carries over tremendous enthusiasm on both sides to Trump’s job approval rating as to vote. well, with a current rating of 42.6%.

In the Q&A portion of the While there was a rallying effect lecture, Kerbel spent time discussat the beginning of the pandeming how overall, Biden is polling a ic, the vast majority of Americans five-point lead in Pennsylvania. He agree that Trump’s handling of is also surprisingly polling well in COVID-19 has been extremely poor. the Scranton and Harrisburg areas,

Kerbel explained that when which would be instrumental to win looking at polls, citizens must think the state. about what is going on in the minds

Kerbel also wanted everyone of voters. The easiest way to do to know that even though there have that is to realize that they are asking been threats of Trump not “giving themselves, “Do I want four more up the White House” if he loses, that years of what I have, or is the chalhis term ends in January no matter lenger better than our current state?” what.

Nicole Celis Staff Writer

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

The Villanovan | 5

OPINION

OPINION

The University’s Spring Schedule and Student Disdain Vivi Melkonian Staff Writer

The honeymoon phase is over. That first month at the University was filled with the anxious excitement of meeting new people, being in a new place and trying new things. Like all good things, the low workload of the first month of college did come to an end. This is to be expected. We are here to work and study, and for the most part, it has been manageable.

Then came midterm week, or rather, the three weeks in my schedule that were sporadically filled with papers, tests and projects. Getting through that was a victory in and of itself, but the relief was short-lived, as we were immediately thrown back into our normal workload with no break in sight.

My mindset coming into my freshman year at the University was largely influenced by the pure gratitude I had towards the school for allowing us to live on campus this semester. To me, it seemed completely worth it to have no breaks the whole semester because I was just thankful to be here. Very quickly, I realized the happiness of being here would not overpower the level of stress and feeling of burnout that’s been all-consuming since midterms.

We are drained; the schoolwork that was exciting and engaging in the beginning has become monotonous and unappealing.

While I am appreciative of the professors who have given us a day or two off from homework, it is not enough to negate how genuinely

evaluates and assesses reactions to this new schedule. It is unreasonable to be expected to continuously perform at our highest capacity when we are given virtually no time off to recharge.

I understand the University’s wish to minimize travel to avoid a rise in COVID-19 cases. Frankly, getting rid of some longer weekends and Spring Break is not going to stop people from traveling if they want to. However, if avoiding travel is the University’s primary reason for eliminating breaks, I have a couple of suggestions that could make everyone happy.

I think the University should implement a few long weekends into the spring semester; give a consecutive Friday and Monday off here and there. This would be Students study in the grotto on warmer days at the end of this first long semester. best suited in March around the Courtesy of Noah Seng DeLong time of midterms. This way, it minoverwhelmed and exhausted I am rant of the level of fatigue through- imizes the opportunity for extended with my academics. out the community, which is exactravel because the “break” is only

“The first month, I was on erbated by the stress of being in the four days. top of everything, but now it’s like midst of a pandemic.

My second suggestion is a tidal wave of work and stress,”

Furthermore, the mental having days in the middle of the freshman Senator Thomas Dessoye health of students should not be week off throughout the semester. A said. disregarded as a factor when conTuesday or Wednesday interspersed

In similar conversations structing the spring semester calen- throughout would be instrumental with my peers, the message is dar. in providing students with much consistent: The feeling of burnout

When asked if she thought needed time to relax and revive as is undebatable and needs to be the University’s schedule was well as get caught up on work. addressed. inconsiderate towards student

In my short time here, I rec I was hopeful that the morale, freshman Kara Miller ognize Villanova as a community University would see the effects responded, “Definitely. The burnof compassion, where staff and stuof having a break-less semester on out this semester is terrible. I can’t dents alike have authentic respect the student body and empathize by believe we’re going to do this again for one another. The University creating a spring semester schedule next semester with even harder generally listens and considers the that presented more time off, but I classes.” opinions of the student body, espewas supremely disappointed. Other Non-stop work has already cially if they are widespread. I hope than the Friday before Easter, there created an evident strain on the that they continue in this manner are no scheduled days off. mental health of the community. and reevaluate the spring, taking

More than anything, this This needs to be taken into coninto thought the mental well-being schedule is invalidating and ignosideration by the University as it of the community as a whole.

Safely Staying in Shape During the COVID-19 Pandemic Tina Aron Staff Writer

With the absence of family walks that became quite popular during quarantine, it has been a struggle to stay active in such a different kind of environment.

While it seems like a daunting task, starting an exercise routine is much easier than it seems. The mask requirement does present some problems, but there are many alternative avenues that are attainable.

The Davis Center has been nothing but accommodating to students given the obvious adjustments that were necessary. Scheduling an appointment at any of the campus gyms is user-friendly, and the gym staff members are always willing to help. While scheduling workout appointments ahead of time can be inconvenient, it does prevent crowding and guarantees that equipment will be open. Properly maintaining everyone’s safety requires wearing masks; however, it is a necessary adjustment that is possible and requires patience. If the mask requirement poses too big of a problem, stick to a low-intensity workout and take the rest of

the routine outside.

Since Villanova’s mask policy excludes exercising outside and alone, exercising outside is a great alternative to working out in the gym. Taking a jog or a walk outside is great for overall physical and mental health, as it is a great way to take a break while still being productive. Listening to a carefully curated playlist can also make these outdoor excursions fun and something to look forward to throughout the day.

Exercise is an easy way to improve physical and mental health, but it is important to never pressure oneself or expect to be great right away. It takes a long time to develop a sustainable personal routine, and unfortunately, this all comes from trial and error.

If lost at where to begin, there are plenty of apps that can help start the process. Nike Training Club and Nike Run Club are free and provide guides through different workout routines, runs and help track experiences. These apps are also compatible with music streaming services, which is a big plus. There are also YouTube personalities like Chloe Ting or MadFit who create home workouts that are easy to do at the gym or in

a dorm, even with no experience in working out.

The pandemic does pose problems when trying to stay healthy, especially on a college campus, but there are ways to adjust and find solutions. It is a hard time to begin a fitness jour-

ney; however, it can happen with perseverance and some flexibility.

Most of all, it is important to work at a personal pace and gain only positive influence from others. As we all live through these “unprecedented times,” it’s important to cut ourselves some slack.

Staying in shape during the pandemic has come with changes, but is still doable.

Courtesy of Villanova University

OPINION

6 | The Villanovan

EDITORIAL BOARD EMILY COX Editor-in-Chief TYLER KEMP Editor-in-Chief JACK ROBERGE Opinion Editor

LETTERS TO THE EDITORS

The Villanovan encourages all members of the Villanova community to voice their opinions. Letters to the editors may be submitted via e-mail to villanovan.eic@gmail.com. Letters must not exceed 500 words and must be signed. No anonyous letters will be published. All submissions become property of The Villanovan and are subject to editing for clarity and space.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

POLICY

The unsigned editorial that appears is the opinion of The Villanovan as deteermined by the majority of the Editorial Board. Other columns, letters and artwork represent the opinions of their auhtors and do not necessarily reflect the position of The Villanovan.

Letter to the Editors: Get Out to Vote on Tuesday Caroline Levine Student Body Vice President

All semester, students have been asked to do one thing: put Community First. We’ve all come to recognize what this means – wearing masks everywhere on campus, social distancing and following the guidelines of The CARITAS Commitment. I know first-hand that this hasn’t been easy, and it’s been inspiring and empowering to see the way that members of our community have stepped up to make this semester possible.

At the end of the day,

however, Community First is about more than staying safe throughout the pandemic. Putting Community First means making decisions with the best interest of not only ourselves, but the entire community, in mind. This coming Tuesday, we have a unique opportunity to put this into action by practicing our right to vote on Election Day.

Regardless of your political beliefs and what issues you’re most passionate about, it’s important to realize that elections are about more than just you. The decisions made at the polls or through voting by mail have a direct impact on

every community that you are a part of, whether you recognize it or not. Yes, the presidential election receives most of the focus, but don’t forget about the races up and down the ballot that influence the way that our national, state and local governments operate.

Our age group of young adults has a historically low voter turnout. According to the US Census Bureau, in 2016, only 49% of eligible voters in the 18-29 age range voted. Politicians and pundits of all ideologies have discounted the power of the youth vote and questioned whether young adults

are at all interested in being engaged in politics.

For many of us, myself included, Tuesday will mark our first time voting in a presidential election, and we have the opportunity to demonstrate that we understand the importance of using our voices.

So, on Nov. 3, put Community First and exercise your civic duty: VOTE. For more information on Election Day resources on campus, including information about shuttles to the polls, you can visit the #LetsVoteNova website at www.villanova.edu/LetsVoteNova.

Let’s vote, ’Nova!

Pope Francis’ Marriage Statement: Clearing Up Confusion Jacob Artz Staff Writer

As someone who plans on graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Communication, it bothers when a misinterpreted and misquoted statement is promoted as fact by major media outlets in the United States.

It bothers me even more when the Vatican Communications Office has not clarified an ambiguous statement made by the Holy Father of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, throughout his pontificate, has pushed the envelope in doctrine for the Catholic Church and remained mum on follow-up questions regarding what he meant in these statements. Pope Francis would be in a good spot right now if he just knew how to communicate the teachings of the Catholic faith and avoid confusing the faithful.

This confusion came to light recently in a new Vatican documentary called “Francesco” that premiered worldwide last Wednesday. It intended to show the Pope in a positive light by reaching back to his days of traveling the world and blessing the oppressed. The film also spotlighted his caring for issues like climate change, refugees and social inequalities. All of these were forgotten quickly when the Pope spoke about homosexuals and stated in Spanish, “Ley de convivencia civil.” This statement translated directly in English means “giving them (homosexuals) legal protections.”

This is solid teaching because the Church teaches us that all humans have rights and should be protected.

However, major news outlets, like The New York Times, ran with this statement and misinterpreted the Holy Father.

“Pope Francis expressed support for same-sex civil unions in remarks revealed in a documentary film that premiered on Wednesday, a significant break from his predecessors that staked out new ground for the church in its recognition of gay people,” Jason Horowitz, the Rome

Pope Francis delivers a Homily during a Mass.

Courtesy of Remo Casilli, Associated Press

bureau chief of The Times, wrote in an article.

Pope Francis never supported gay marriage in this documentary, but he, along with the communication team at the Vatican, have not clarified this.

This lack of clarity leads to factions in the Church, like conservative Cardinal Burke, having to uphold the teachings of the Church through clear statements.

Cardinal Burke said the Pope’s comments have no “magisterial weight.” He expressed concerns that personal opinions from the Pope, “generate great bewilderment and cause confusion and error among faithful Catholics.”

Again, confusion could be easily avoided by sticking with the Church’s teachings.

The Catechism is clear on the Church’s stance on marriage. According to the Catechism, Catechism 2335 states:

“Each of the two sexes is an image of the power and tenderness of God, with equal dignity though in a different way. The union of man and woman in marriage is a way of imitating in the flesh the Creator’s generos-

ity and fecundity: Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and cleaves to his wife, and they become one flesh. All human generations proceed from this union.”

The Church disapproves of homosexual marriage, but the Church always cares for homosexuals and desires them to be treated with compassion and lead to fulfill God’s will through chastity.

The Catechism expands on this teaching.

“The number of men and women who have deep-seated homosexual tendencies is not negligible,” it states. “This inclination, which is objectively disordered, constitutes for most of them a trial. They must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfill God’s will in their lives and, if they are Christians, to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord’s Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition.”

If the Pope could be clearer, the Church would be in a more holy and upright place. The papacy is a spot where the Church needs an

unequivocal leader, and the Pope has not done this.

Another example came when Juan Carlos Cruz, a survivor of clerical abuse at the hands of the Latin American clergy, met with Pope Francis in May of 2018.

According to the El País newspaper, Pope Francis said to Mr. Cruz, who is gay, “Juan Carlos, that you are gay does not matter. God made you like this and loves you like this and I don’t care. The pope loves you like this. You have to be happy with who you are.”

The Vatican communication department refused to answer questions on the Holy Father’s comments.

Journalism is a two-way street, and those in power need to be held accountable and fact checked. Unfortunately, the Vatican likes to dodge questions and use silence without the word transparent in their dictionary.

This silence needs to be replaced with speaking out so the faithful can truly be confident in their leadership and lead others to Heaven through clear teachings.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

OPINION

The Villanovan | 7

Lancaster Avenue: The ‘Stroad’ Responsible for Holding Bryn Mawr Back from Success Nicole Clarke Guest Writer

If you are a student at the University, chances are that you have made the mile-long walk to downtown Bryn Mawr. Take a second to reflect upon how you felt while you were making that walk. Did you feel safe? If you ask me, I think it is only a matter of time before a sophomore gets bonked by a Toyota Corolla.

Lancaster Avenue jets into the middle of downtown Bryn Mawr and is designed as if its sole function is the movement of automobiles.

Bryn Mawr has the potential to be a “fun college town” with a vibrant, sustainable economy. In order for it to get there, its main street must become more walkable.

There is a great importance in distinguishing a great American street and a high-performance roadway.

The function of a street is to grow the complex ecosystem of businesses and homes that produces community wealth. In these environments, people (outside of their automobiles) are the indicator of success. Successful streets are environments where humans and human interaction flourish. In contrast, the function of a road is to connect productive places to one another.

Designing streets as if they were roads creates three fundamental and interrelated problems.

First, it’s expensive. From engineering to asphalt, there is a

tremendous amount of investment needed to maintain overbuilt streets.

Poorly designed streets suppress demand for biking and walking and actually induce more demand for transportation spending.

Second, poorly designed streets drive down taxpayers’ return on investment. The more auto-oriented a development pattern is, the higher the cost to provide public services and the lower the value per acre.

Third, designing streets as if they were roads is not safe. These environments combine fast speeds with randomness and complexity, a condition unsafe for drivers and particularly

unsafe for pedestrians.

Lancaster Avenue is a ‘stroad,’ which is a hybrid of a street and a road. Much like a futon, it tries to do two things at once and is forced to compromise on both. A stroad tries to move cars quickly along a corridor of a community. The result is expensive infrastructure serving low-returning properties. A stroad is the worst kind of transportation investment yet, they plague much of the American landscape. This is because of the way transportation professionals approach street construction. The design model for a stroad emphasizes the importance of speed, volume, safety and

cost. The order of these values works well for roads, but it is the inverse of what is needed to build a safe, productive street.

Incrementally shifting Lancaster Avenue to become less of a stroad and more of a street will make Bryn Mawr a successful, vibrant downtown. Bike lanes and street trees are simple design tactics that will help accomplish this. It is clear that building lower cost, higher returning streets will improve the quality of life for Bryn Mawr citizens and University students. While everyone is a pedestrian, not everyone is a driver. the seemingly inevitable.

The mile stretch of Lancaster Avenue from the University to Bryn Mawr is notoriously unsafe.

Courtesy of The Villanovan

A Presidential Debate Defined by Muted Microphones Andrew Portas Staff Writer

“Will you shut up, man?” Joe Biden exclaimed in the first presidential debate. Countless Americans, myself included, shared Biden’s frustration as civil, political discourse quickly became a comedy show of insults and interruption. This sentiment apparently resonated with the Commission of Presidential Debates, as they announced each candidate would have their microphones muted for two minutes of uninterrupted time to answer during Thursday’s debate.

As a result, the final debate was strikingly more ordinary than its precursor which, to be fair, really doesn’t say much.

In response to moderator Kristen Welker’s first question regarding COVID-19, each candidate delivered reasonable, coherent answers, hesitant to exceed their allotted time or interrupt their opponent. Whether or not they genuinely intended to respect each other’s time or simply feared the embarrassment of being promptly cut off, the new debate rules seemed to have initially worked.

This trend continued for about another half an hour until questions about foreign election interface began. Trump’s uncharacteristically moderate tone quickly transitioned to ad hominem attacks of Biden’s son, Hunter, who has faced recent scrutiny over his business involvement in China and Russia.

Many of Trump’s claims were either unbased or wholly untrue, as he portrayed his opponent as “perhaps

the ringleader” of a Biden criminal enterprise. To anybody aware of current events, this tangent was rather expected, as Trump’s campaign desperately seeks to portray Biden as yet another selfish and corrupt elite of Washington.

The Biden campaign made the decision before the debate to suspend campaign events and thoroughly prep the candidate. This is a decision I believe ultimately paid off.

Biden remained resilient this debate, going on the offensive more than he did two weeks ago. He countered Trump’s claims about his supposed financial gains from foreign entities by suggesting all sources of his income can be found on his public tax documents. This was arguably Biden’s shining moment as he skillfully maneuvered the conversation back to Trump’s unreleased tax returns, a topic Trump has proven unable to provide any adequate response to.

Biden returned fire with fire, at one point responding, “Anyone responsible for that many deaths should not remain president of the United States of America.”

Similar to the first debate, 53% of voters who watched the debate claim Biden won the debate, opposed to 39% for Trump in a recent CNN poll. However, this is a greatly reduced margin compared to the mere 28% who declared Trump victorious in the first debate.

There is no doubt Trump performed better than he did in the last debate. His answers regarding foreign policy in North Korea and a $15 minimum wage were comprehensive, logical and arguably the best

The Commission on Presidential Debates muted candidate mics during the recent debate.

Courtesy of CNBC

responses he has provided since the 2016 presidential debates.

Despite this, Thursday’s debate only hampered Trump’s prospects for victory. Biden likewise performed better than expected, providing answers that were either comparable or more convincing than his opponent’s as he homed in on values of respect and dignity.

Because of this, Trump failed to achieve the clear-cut victory his campaign desperately needed. Election polls have remained relatively stable less than a week away from Nov. 3, and this was Trump’s last potent opportunity to shrink his projected deficit.

I don’t think you can point to a specific winner in terms of debate performance; however, Biden emerges as a winner regardless. All Biden had to do was avoid disaster, and he successfully accomplished this.

Was this a direct result of the muted microphones? Perhaps it was, but not entirely.

Biden entered this debate thoroughly prepared and if anything, the new rule actually assisted Trump, prompting him to take a more moderate tone. Regardless, a Biden administration is becoming more and more likely by the day, and Trump has yet to provide an adequate response to the seemingly inevitable.

FEATURE

8 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

VOTE THE VILLANOVAN’S 2020 VOTING GUIDE

The 2020 United States presidential election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2020. It will be the 59th quadrennial presidential election. The series of presidential primary elections and caucuses were held from February to August 2020. The major two-party candidates are Republican incumbent President Donald Trump and Democrat former Vice President Joe Biden. Trump secured the Republican nomination without any serious opposition. Former Vice President Joe Biden secured the Democratic nomination over Senator Bernie Sanders, in a primary that featured the largest field of presidential candidates for any political party in the modern era of American politics. On August 11, Biden announced that his running mate would be Senator Kamala Harris, making her the first African-American, the first Indian-American, the first Asian-American and the third female vice presidential nominee on a major party ticket. Jo Jorgensen secured the Libertarian nomination with Spike Cohen as her running mate, and Howie Hawkins secured the Green nomination with Angela Nicole Walker as his running mate.

Central issues of the election include the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; protests in reaction to the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and others; the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett, climate change regulations and the future of the Affordable Care Act.

CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT COVID-19

HEALTH CARE

CLIMATE CHANGE

• Make testing widely available • Expand the Affordable Care & establish mobile testing sites Act, particularly with inin each state creased coverage to low-in• Distribute a vaccince, once a come Americans and tax safe one has been approved credits for middle class fami• Provide assistance to workers lies most affected by financial • Use antitrust authorities to hardships brought on by the address rising prices for conpandemic sumers

• Rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement • Invest more than $1 trillion into green energy and sustainable infrastructure • Combat polluters and companies that disproportionately harm communities of color

• Created the White House Coronavirus Task Force to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 • Plans to distribute a vaccine

by December 2020 and have 300 million doses distributed

by January 2021

• Withdrew from Paris Climate Agreement • Eased air and water pollution penalties against large corporations

• Replace the Affordable Care Act with a new plan he has yet to disclose • Signed executive order, “America First” plan, to protect those with pre-existing conditions

Images courtesy of The Washington Post

DEMOCRAT: Joe Biden

LIBERTARIAN: Jo Jorgensen

REPUBLICAN: Donald Trump (Incumbent)

GREEN PARTY: Howie Hawkins

Biden was a Democratic U.S. Senator from Delaware for 36 years, until he left to as vice president under President Barack Obama. He was reelected to the Senate six times, and was the fourth-most senior senator when he resigned to serve as Obama’s vice president after they won the 2008 presidential election. He was raised in nearby Scranton, PA. Trump was a businessman, television personality and real estate mogul before his presidency. He entered the 2016 presidential race as a Republican and was elected in an electoral college victory over Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton while losing the popular vote. He became the oldest first-term U.S. president and the first without prior military or government service.

The first woman to lead the party’s presidential ticket, Jorgensen previously worked as a marketing representative and started her own software sales business. Her platform centers around eliminating “big government” mandates and programs, limiting taxes and reducing government spending. She has been a lifelong member of the Libertarian party Co-founder of the Green Party of the United States, Hawkins is running on a platform focused on legalizing marijuana and ending mass incarceration. He supports a number of socialist economic policies, including an eco-socialist version of the Green New Deal. He has played leading roles in anti-war, anti-nuclear and pro-worker movemennts since the 1960s.

FEATURE

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

The Villanovan | 9

WHO ELSE IS ON THE BALLOT FOR VILLANOVANS VOTING IN PENNSYLVANIA? PENNSYLVANIA ATTORNEY GENERAL

PENNSYLVANIA STATE TREASURER

State attorneys general are the top legal officers of their respective states. They act as public advocates in issues of legislative interest and handle criminal appeals and prosecutions.

This position serves as the custodian of more than $100 billion in Commonwealth funds. Treasurers manage state investments, monitor any surplus or deficit of state funding and deposit funding as appropriate.

DEMOCRAT: Josh Shampiro (Incumbent) • Known for his prioritization of communities such as seniors, veterans and small businesses • Has championed the fight against the opioid crisis, advocating for treatment plans and centers for those with addiction • Advocate for marriage rights of LGBT couples in Pennsylvania REPUBLICAN: Heather Heidelbaugh • Litigator, has practiced law for over 30 years • Served on the Governor’s Commission on Judicial Appointments • Main issues include the elimination of government-based corruption and battling the opioid crisis.

LIBERTARIAN: Daniel Wassmer • Doylestown attorney • Served as Commissioner on the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission and Director of Bucks County Housing Corporation • Platform centers around legal reform and decriminalization of drugs • Advocate of the Second Amendment and abortion rights

DEMOCRAT: Joseph Torsella (Incumbent) • Advocates for the rights of lower-level income working families and increasing governmental transparency • Served as president and CEO of the National Constitution Center, chair of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education and an ambassador of budget and management reform for the UN

GREEN: Richard Weiss • Worked domestically as an attorney at the U.S. Agency for International Development in Washington, D.C. • Champions criminal justice reform issues and supports eliminating cash bail, decriminalizing drug use and sex work and instituting police review boards in coordination with communities

REPUBLICAN: Stacy Garrity • Received media attention during her time in the U.S. Army as one of the officers in charge of an internment camp for enemy combatants in Iraq known to treat prisoners humanely • Advocates for increasing governmental transparency, lowering taxes and education reform.

PENNSYLVANIA AUDITOR GENERAL State auditor generals generally deal with determining whether state funding is being used in accordance with the law. The auditor general conducts both financial and performance audits of people and groups that receive state funds, with the aim of measuring the effectiveness of how the state is using its money to sponsor government-sanctioned programs and initiatives for the public good.

DEMOCRAT: Nina Ahmad • Immigrant from Bangladesh, advocates for the rights of marginalized people • Served on President Obama’s National Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders • Would be the first woman of color appointed to a statewide executive office in Pennsylvania REPUBLICAN: Timothy DeFoor • More than 20 years of combined experience in law enforcement and auditing • Aims to limit government spending, increase transparency and strengthen the state’s economy to provide increased job opportunities

LIBERTARIAN: Jennifer Moore • Auditor of Upper Providence township • Vice chair of Pennsylvania’s Libertarian Party • Does not have a candidate page or platform available online GREEN: Olivia Faison • Serves on the Board of Directors for the City of Philadelphia Health Centers • Known for her approach to climate change, advocating for the Green New Deal and clean energy alternatives.

LETS VOTE NOVA TRANSPORTATION TO THE POLLS ON ELECTION DAY • Free shuttles to and from campus to polling locations from 9:00 a.m. — 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3 • Shuttles will run to voting locations every 30 minutes from the Connelly Center Circle • When students arrive at the Connelly Center Circle, they will scan a QR code that directs them to the check their voter registration status and confirms their polling location • OSI will have a table present to give away “ I Voted” and “Let’s Vote Nova” pins

LIBERTARIAN: Joe Soloski • Prioritizes the principles of limited government intervention • Platform centers around reducing state spending, enforcing term limits for legislators and eliminating select taxes, such as the state inheritance tax GREEN: Timothy Runkle • Serves as treasurer for the Green Party of Pennsylvania • Working to increase accessibility for non-politicians to serve in elected office positions • Advocate for environmental reform and civil rights, particularly for indigenous groups and people of color

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: DISTRICT 5

DEMOCRAT: Mary Gay Scanlon (Incumbent) • Experience as an attorney at the Education Law Center & President of her local school board • Platform centers around issues such as voting rights, education reform, gun safety, and the rights of veterans

REPUBLICAN: Dasha Pruett • Emigrated from the Soviet Union in 1980 • Passionate about retaining the capitalist system in America, lowering taxes, limiting government funding, supporting the Second Amendment, and providing support for law enforcement

PENNSYLVANIA STATE SENATE: DISTRICT 17

DEMOCRAT: Amanda Cappelletti • Has worked as the Vice Chair at the East Norriton Township Board of Supervisors and a Director of Policy at Planned Parenthood.

• Believes in the preservation of healthcare, fair and equal funding for schools, environmental reform, reproductive rights and gun control

REPUBLICAN: Ellen Fisher • Supporter of small businesses and reduction of healthcare costs.

• Plans to invest in infrastructure by repairing roads, bridges and well as updating the state’s technology

PA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: DISTRICT 166 DEMOCRAT: Gregory Vitali (Incumbent) • District representative since 1993 • Received his J.D. from Villanova Law School in 1981 • Committed to environmental protection

REPUBLICAN: Christine Boyle • Began legal career as a public defender for the Legal Aid Society • Supports local businesses by means of state-funded aid • Emphasizes of moderation in politics and the necessity for cohesion

#VillanovansVote #LetsVoteNova

By Emily Cox Co-Editor-in-Chief

CULTURE

10 | The Villanovan

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

CULTURE

Campus Ministry Hosts First Year Escape Retreat Chelsea Le Staff Writer

Freshman year, a crucial transition period from high school to college, has featured unprecedented difficulties for students in the Class of 2024, who are also adjusting to college life amidst a pandemic. To provide support for first-year students, Campus Ministry hosted its semi-annual “First Year Escape Retreat,” an exclusive opportunity for freshmen seeking to discover new friendships, explore their faith and values and make the most out of their next four years at the University.

From Oct. 23-25, more than 20 students experienced a modified, COVID-friendly retreat experience.

Instead of being off-campus, like in years past, the retreat was held primarily in-person on Mendel Field for communal activities. Zoom was utilized for the opening and closing ceremonies, but students were able to spend time meeting with small group members in Tolentine Hall. In these classrooms, freshmen watched pre-recorded talks about relevant topics including “Identity and Self,” “Relationships” and “Social Pressures.” Journaling time provided an opportunity to personally reflect, and

Senior

Erin

students were paired with one another throughout the day to share their experiences.

“COVID-19 has changed how everyone is experiencing college, and that includes our social interactions,” Carly Cohen, one of the Campus Ministry Interns (CMIs) leading the retreat, said. “Providing retreat opportunities this semester has been only one of the many ways Campus Ministry has continued our mission of ‘Searching together’ — our programming may look different, but the core of the community remains the same.”

In the final stretch of classes before finals, many students signed up searching for an outlet to refresh their minds and take a break from the challenging semester.

“I decided to go on Escape to have a weekend of reflection and connection,” retreatant Moira Horan said. “I thought it would be nice to take a step back and meet some new people through conversation.”

The Campus Ministry staff worked with the Events Management Committee to ensure that the retreat would happen safely, providing an opportunity for freshmen to interact with one another in ways that adhered to The CARITAS Commitment.

Since August, the Escape student leaders and CMIs have worked

Gresh

Erin Gresh cooks turkey burgers on “Live with Kelly and Ryan” on July 11, 2019.

Courtesy of Erin Gresh

said. “I wanted to lead a small group this year because it was so much fun and helped me reflect on my freshman year. Escape is a way for me to give back to the freshmen just as my leaders did to me.”

Despite the untraditional retreat format, Escape remained an invaluable experience for freshmen who attended. Leaving Escape, retreatants were encouraged to continue pursuing new relationships.

“We’ve all taken great care to physically distance ourselves to keep others safe,” Cohen said. “We also must take great care to continue making intentional connections.”

The Escape Retreat will also be offered in the Spring for students interested in a similar experience.

Retreatants played games on Mendel Field as part of the retreat.

Courtesy of Campus Ministry

Bakes

friends. Baking has a way of bringing people together and allowing them to share their own tips, stories and experiences with each other in a fun,

The 2007 cinematic mastereasy-going environment.” piece “Ratatouille,” taught our genThe club has been unable to eration an important lesson: “Anyone meet in person so far this semester. can cook.” On campus, senior Erin However, Gresh plans to hold Baking Gresh is teaching students that same Club meetings over Zoom starting in vital lesson. late October.

Gresh transferred to Villano Gresh’s role as President of va from the University of Pittsburgh the Baking Club comes after a lifetime in the fall of 2019 at the start of her juof experience.

She discovered her nior year. Just a year after transferring passion for cooking around the age of here, she earned the role of president four or five years old, when she startof the University’s Baking Club. ed making Christmas cookies with her

The Baking Club normally mother. meets once each month, in St. Mary’s

Gresh made the Instagram dining hall after its closing hours. At account @forgetmenotfood during each meeting, club members work on her freshman year of college. As of a new recipe, and all recipes are easily Oct. 25, the account has over 1,250 made with simple ingredients. followers.

On the account, one can

“We supply all of the ingredifind hundreds of posts featuring ents and supplies for our participants Gresh’s homemade meals and reciand always leave treats for the dining pes. There is no food that Gresh does hall employees to show our apprecinot make; you will find cake, cookies, ation and thank them for letting us use their kitchen,” Gresh said. “It’s so pasta, pizza, sandwiches, pretzels, biscuits and more. much fun and a great way to make A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

tirelessly to adapt the structure of the retreat.

“I hope the retreatants had an opportunity to create new friendships and establish meaningful relationships with some of their peers,” Emily Holland, a retreat leader, said. “I hope they get the opportunity to reflect on who they are and what they want out of their college experience as well as have a chance to relax and rewind in the midst of this hectic semester.”

The retreat also provided an opportunity for freshmen to interact with sophomores involved in Campus Ministry.

“Building connections was an important goal of mine last October, and Escape was a great outlet for me to do that,” sophomore Nick Devine

Campus

Gresh admits that her favorite food to bake is cake. She makes customized cakes for special occasions for friends and family, each creation tailored to the individual. Typically, the person tells Gresh his or her favorite colors and leaves the bulk of designing up to her.

Gresh plans to officially start a business selling cakes from her house once she returns home in November after the fall semester ends. Just like her Instagram account, Gresh plans to call the business “Forget Me Not Food.”

The title “Forget Me Not Food” was inspired by Gresh’s father, who passed away in 2017. His favorite flowers were forget-me-nots. He worked for a pharmaceutical company and loved science.

“My whole childhood, he would make me and my sister do all the science fairs,” Gresh said.

She went on to speak about how she practically grew up in a lab.

“While in the lab, I would have an idea and think to myself: ‘I want to make this,’” Gresh said.

This same line of thinking bleeds into her current culinary work.

Planning to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Gresh applies scientific principles to the kitchen.

Her science-oriented approach and friendly demeanor combine to make her an excellent teacher.

Gresh’s teaching skills are especially apparent when watching the VTV “College Cookbook” series on YouTube.

The “College Cookbook” series has three episodes. In each video, Gresh guides an inexperienced cook, sophomore Hunter Dickson, through quick and easy recipes, while also teaching the science behind it along

By

Storm

the way.

“I want to make the recipes easy for college students,” Gresh said.

“A lot of college students want to cook but don’t know where to start. In the most recent video, I taught how to make pasta without a rolling pin or a pasta machine, because who really has a rolling pin or pasta machine in their room?”

Gresh’s talents reach more than just her social media followers and University students. She was on national television last year.

Gresh was doing schoolwork at her house in July 2019 when she glanced at the television. There was an advertisement for a Grilling Contest, in which contestants could send in a video of themselves cooking their own recipe and talking about it.

Winners would end up on the morning show “Live with Kelly and Ryan” on ABC.

“After I sent in my submission, I didn’t think anything of it,” Gresh said. “But a week later, I got a call from the producer. A few days later, on Thursday, I was gonna be on the show.”

On Thursday, July 11, 2019, Gresh travelled from her home in New Hope, PA, up to New York City to show Kelly Ripa, Ryan Seacrest and millions of viewers how to make a turkey burger. Her television appearance is memorialized on the YouTube video “Grillin’spiration Cook-off: Erin Gresh’s Shrimp Stuffed Turkey Burger on Cauliflower Steaks.”

For now, cooking is a side passion for Gresh, as she plans to pursue a career in STEM. However, if her baking business turns out to be a tremendous success, Gresh would love to make it her full-time job.

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 11

Rising Star Stan Genius Performs on Campus year or two.

A.J. Fezza Co-Culture Editor

On the evening of Saturday, Oct. 24, the University held a performance at the Riley Ellipse by a singer known as Stan Genius, who flew from his home of Los Angeles to give students a special show.

The event was free and open to all students. Seniors were given a special VIP section and the chance to reserve fire pits.

Stan Genius is a rising star in the pop and R&B community, with over 90,000 followers on Instagram and more than 1.5 million fans on TikTok.

For about an hour, Stan Genius performed a wide array of songs both by him and other artists on a makeshift stage, alongside two dancers. Some of these songs included “High Fashion” by Roddy Ricch, “Yummy” by Justin Bieber and “Human Nature” by Michael Jackson.

One original song that he performed was his recent single, “Spin the Bottle,” which was released on July 15.

Most songs were upbeat, catchy tunes. However, there were some slower and more serious songs interspersed. For example, the original song “Last Apology” touched upon the theme of loss.

Stan Genius engaged with the audience throughout the performance, making quips in between songs.

“You guys like the Eagles?” he asked the crowd. “They suck right now. But I can’t say anything. I’m from Atlanta. I’m a Falcons fan.”

Just when it seemed as if the performance was coming to a close, the crowd demanded an encore.

Stan Genius obliged, playing sneak peeks of three of his unreleased songs.

The first song was called “Smoothie.” As Stan Genius sang, he went around high-fiving and dancing with the enthusiastic crowd, an action which may be a bit controversial in these current socially-distanced

TV: How long have you been doing performances?

SG: My first show was in the driveway at like six years old.

TV: What’s your main goal? Do you want to start selling out big shows?

SG: My goal is to make music that people can enjoy, and then I can transition into selling out big shows, in addition to being able to inspire people and, you know, spread a message of positivity.

TV: You previewed those last three Stan Genius performs onstage at the Riley Ellipse. songs for us at the end. Do you Courtesy of Noah Seng DeLong have any idea when you’re going to release them? times. He ended the night with a your biggest influences? more spiritual song called “I Need SG: Hopefully this year. I don’t have You.” SG: Some of my influences would

“Should I drop this song be Charlie Wilson, Michael for sure, a date or anything. There’s a lot of things up in the air with quarantine tonight in honor of Villanova?” Stan Bruno Mars, Usher and the rest of and the pandemic, and you know Genius asked. the greats. how that goes. But I definitely want

The audience roared. to come out with them as soon as

“I don’t know about that, TV: Would you say R&B is your possible. but I’m there with you mentally and favorite type of genre? spiritually,” Stan Genius responded.

TV: Are you working on any albums

After the performance, SG: Yes, R&B. Honestly, just music or EPs or anything like that?

The Villanovan tracked down Stan that feels good. Soulful music that Genius for a spur-of-the-moment touches people in a special way.

SG: Yes, I’m working on my own interview. project as well as writing for some TV: Is most of your music promoother artists in the industry.

The Villanovan: How did this tion on TikTok? performance happen? Did someone TV: Which other artists? from Villanova contact you?

SG: There is some of my music on TikTok. It’s just a couple of songs SG: I did a couple of songs that Stan Genius: Yeah, one of the stu- that are out right now that are both are on Chris Brown’s next project. dents from Villanova contacted me. on TikTok. I’m really just genre-hopping, doing She hit me up on IG (Instagram). gospel music for some inspirational TV: When did you get started on labels.

TV: When did you get started with TikTok? music?

TV: Are you signed to any labels?

SG: I joined at the top of 2019.

SG: I started when I was three by SG: I’m just signed to the talent playing piano at church. I’ve been TV: Are your two dancers your agency ICM Partners. writing songs since I was five. I play friends? How did you get to know piano and guitar, mainly piano. I’ve them?

TV: Would you like to (sign onto a been playing guitar since I was 10. bigger record label) in the future?

SG: Those are the homies. We met TV: You played some Michael Jack- in 2016 and we started doing shows SG: Yeah. If it’s the right situation, son tonight. I’m guessing he’s a big at the end of 2018. So, we’ve been then definitely. influence on you. Who are some of doing shows for like a little over a

LED Lights Become Staple of Dorm Room Decor Kendall Hayes Staff Writer

Any University student can attest that if one walks through the Quad at night, there is an ominous, multi-colored glow coming from the windows of Sheehan and Sullivan Halls. No, the school has not switched out the gloomy dorm lighting for these mysterious colored lights, but in all seriousness, what is the deal with these lights?

It seems that this year, every college student brought with him or her a set of LED lights. These lights are an obvious, necessary part to this year’s college dorm room aesthetic. This makes perfect sense, considering these lights have been all over the app that practically every college student has: TikTok. The hashtag #ledlights has 1.5 billion views on TikTok. The trend gained steam in the fall of 2019 and has remained dominant ever since.

The lights are also a bestseller on Amazon. Not only are remote-controlled LED lights highly

marketed, but they are also easily accessible and only cost $26 or less.

What do college students find so appealing about these lights? Is it the way they make people look in snapchat selfies? Or is it just the really good vibes they bring to shoebox-sized dorm rooms?

The Villanovan asked students to explain the allure of these lights.

“These lights are sick,” sophomore Bridget DeVerna said.

“They bring me back to a time pre-COVID-19, a time where you could have fun without worry.”

During a time when students are spending an absurd amount of time in their dorms, it is necessary to have good lighting with the ability to brighten up one’s day. For DeVerna, it does just this.

The glow from the LED lights produces an ambience that brings students back to a normal college experience.

“They’re sick: nice, cute and vibey colors,” sophomore Caroline Kane said.

Kane is right about the colors. The standard LED light set has twenty different colors from

Students, like DeVerna, line their dorm room walls with LED lights.

Courtesy of Bridget DeVerna

which to choose. The remote that most sets come with is complex, to say the least. Each color can be set to different levels of saturation. So, whether you are in the mood for blues, greens or reds, these lights have all of your possible moods covered.

Next time you walk through the Quad at night, look upwards into the residence hall windows.

The luminous glow of colors is a guaranteed mood booster and a nice reminder that the world will be normal again soon, as long as the lights keep glowing.

12 | The Villanovan

CULTURE

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

A Guide to Dressing Like Your Favorite Celebrity Devin Toolen Staff Writer

With access to some of the most exclusive designer brands and topnotch stylists, it’s no wonder that celebrities always seem to wear such amazing outfits. The lives of famous actors, models and social media influencers seem so elite to the average person, that even their fashion choices appear unattainable.

However, using celebrity fashion as inspiration when you shop at your favorite stores helps to elevate your own style. Let’s look at a few celebrities known for having great style and put together outfits just like theirs.

First up is Hailey Bieber, who is a high fashion model known for her amazing street style. Her stylist, Maeve Reilly, puts together ensembles for Bieber that are both youthful and edgy. Bieber can be seen wearing oversized coats with slim pants and chunky boots or even baggy jeans and cropped tops. She has a style that is perfect for college students to consider for inspiration.

Yes, it’s true that she often wears expensive designer brands. However, you can match her looks without spending as much.

For a Hailey-Bieber-inspired look, I would style a cropped sweater and tank top matching set with straight leg jeans and mule style heels. Bershka is a Spanish clothing company that has great options for knit sweaters or sweater and tank top sets. For a good pair of jeans, try the BDG collection at Urban Outfitters. You can find mule style heels almost anywhere, but I would recommend a department store like Nordstrom which offers a wide variety. Channel your inner Hailey Bieber by wearing an outfit like this to dinner with your friends.

Another celebrity with amazing street style is Zoë Kravitz, a popular actress who has starred in a number of TV shows and movies such as “Big Little Lies” and the “Divergent” film trilogy. Kravitz’s style is so effortless, and it seems like

she can wear anything and make it fashionable. In “High Fidelity,” one of her more recent shows available on Hulu, Ktravitz plays a record store owner who has both great taste in music and in fashion. In each of the episodes, her character wears fairly simple outfits that match her real life cool-girl style.

To dress like Kravitz, I would style a graphic tee shirt tucked into a solid color tennis skirt paired with Old Skool Vans. This outfit is simple, but simplicity can go a long way. You can get a cool graphic tee at your local thrift store, and for a tennis skirt, try American Apparel. As the days get colder, throw on a pair of tights and a leather jacket over this outfit to keep the Zoë Kravitz vibe and to stay warm.

Last is Kaia Gerber, a model and daughter of “Big Five” supermodel Cindy Crawford. Gerber is very young, and sometimes younger celebrities tend to dress in line with their age. However, Gerber has grown up in the spotlight and has learned to dress quite maturely.

Some of her off-duty model looks feature oversized blazers, wide leg jeans and some form of leather.

While Gerber sometimes dresses much older than she is, she adds fun elements to her outfits. For example, Gerber has worn sophisticated blazers with Converse sneakers to make her outfit appear more youthful.

To dress like Gerber, I would style high-top Converse and an oversized blazer with straight leg jeans, a tight turtleneck sweater, and a beanie. This would be a perfect look to wear while hanging out on campus on a brisk fall day.

It’s clear that celebrities wear expensive brands and have great stylists to make them look perfect every day. However, it’s easy to take ideas from their outfits and put your own spin on them. You too can dress like a celebrity without breaking the bank. Use celebrity street style as your inspiration and be creative when making looks for yourself.

Some of the described outfits.

Courtesy of Devin Toolen

Halloween Treats to Make In Your Dorm Room Maddie Schieder Staff Writer

Halloween is right around the corner, and living in a dorm room should not stop you from celebrating.

Coming from experience, cooking in a dorm is what you make of it and takes some creativity. If you don’t have a kitchem don’t fear. Here are some treats you can make in the comfort of your own room with the help of your microwave, minifridge and a few ingredients from the grocery store.

Chocolate Covered Pretzels All you need are some thick pretzel sticks and chocolate. Choose whatever kind of chocolate you prefer, melt it in the microwave and then dip in the pretzels and allow the chocolate to harden in the fridge, if you have one.

You can decorate with festive sprinkles, if you desire.

Rice Krispy Treats Melt butter and marshmallows in the microwave and add in Rice Krispies.

This is such a simple recipe and can be shaped into anything you want according to any holiday. Get creative and add other cereals besides Rice Krispies to match the fall festivities.

Popcorn Hands Making popcorn is super simple.

However, to spice it up in the spirit of Halloween, buy some transparent gloves and fill them with popcorn and tie them up at the ends to spook your friends with a festive snack.

Fall Trail Mix Don’t have a fridge or microwave?

No worries. Throw together some snacks you have laying around, such as crackers, nuts, chocolate or candy corn. It would be a plus if they were fall colors. Add whatever you want, as it’s super customizable.

Monster Hot Chocolate Prepare some ready-made hot cocoa in the microwave, pour it into mugs or the fall-themed to-go cups they sell at the store and top it off with marshmallows. To make it Hallow-

een-themed, cut slits in the marshmallows and put chocolate chips in them for pupils to create monster eyes. One step to change the toppings can make all the difference for a warm cup of chocolate.

Puppy Chow Buy ChexMix from the store, along with chocolate chips, powdered sugar and whatever other toppings desired.

M&M’s are great as well, especially the Halloween ones. Melt the chocolate and toss all the ingredients together in a bag to make a great snack.

Even if you are unable to make these treats, you can still get festive by handing out candy to your neighbors in your hall, if COVID-friendly, or put a bowl of candy outside of your door. This is a nice gesture and brings the tradition of Halloween to college. Even in the midst of a global pandemic, don’t skip over the holidays. If celebrating by making snacks with your roommate is your only way to celebrate, try it out with these simple recipes.

Courtesy of Country Living Magazine

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

CULTURE

The Villanovan | 13

A Quick Guide to the 2020 Pennsylvania Ballot Sara Hecht Staff Writer Check out The Villanovan’s 2020 Voting Guide on p. 8 & 9

The focus of this election has almost entirely on the presidential race between incumbent President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. However, there are plenty of other consequential races that Pennsylvania voters should look out for. Here is a breakdown of who you will see on the ballot on Nov. 3 if your voting address is here at Villanova:

After the presidential section on the ballot, you will see incumbent Mary Gay Scanlon (Democrat) and Dasha Pruett (Republican) running for Pennsylvania’s Disctrict 5 representatives in the U.S House.

Scanlon’s legislative priorities include “voting rights, education, common sense gun safety legislation and protecting the rights of children, families, veterans and our seniors.”

Scanlon’s key votes of 2019 were on Article I and II of the impeachment of Trump, for which she voted in favor. Scanlon has been District 5’s representative since Jan. 2019, and her election to Congress made her the first woman in five years to represent the state in the House.

Pruett is a resident of Drexel Hill and moved to the U.S from Moscow with her family in 1980. She is pro-capitalism and anti-socialism, as she supports “the Constitution, Free Enterprise and our Capitalist economic system.” She is in favor of lowering taxes and fair trade. Socially, Pruett is pro-life and supports the defunding of Planned Parenthood,

as well as legislation on competitive healthcare.

The main candidates for Pennsylvania Auditor General are Nina Ahmad (Democrat), and Timothy DeFoor (Republican).

Key issues for Ahmad include addressing the costs of healthcare through auditing and cost-cuts. Additionally, she plans to fight against price manipulation created by pharmaceutical companies. If elected, she would be the first woman of color in Pennsylvania’s history to serve in a statewide executive office. Ahmad is endorsed by President Obama, Kamala Harris and Planned Parenthood.

DeFoor’s core beliefs revolve around decreased spending and transparency within the nation’s government. Within the community, he is a member of Harrisburg’s NAACP branch and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #78. DeFoor is endorsed by the House Speaker Bryan Cutler and the Dauphin County GOP.

Running for Attorney General of Pennsylvania are the incumbent Josh Shapiro (Democrat) and Heather Heidelbaugh (Republican).

Shapiro assumed office in Jan. 2017. As outlined on his website, Shapiro stands for the civil rights of all Pennsylvanians and has “repeatedly fought discrinimation against the disabled, LGBTQ commnity, those of different races and ethnicities and other minority groups.” He is prochoice and fights to protect access to birth control, leading “that fight at the Supreme Court this year.” Shapiro is in favor of criminal justice and environmental reforms, the protection of the Affordable Care Act and gun reform.

Heidelbaugh is a lawyer with

more than 35 years of experience and states that she is running “to be the People’s Lawyer.” She advocates for the pursuit of four core issues which affect Pennsylvania today.

These problems include the aftermath of the opioid epidemic, governmental corruption, scammers who rip off consumers and special interest groups that use courtrooms to do “an end-run around the elected legislature.”

Running for State Treasurer are incumbent Joseph Torsella (Democrat) and Stacy Garrity (Republican).

Torsella previously served as Deputy Mayor for Policy and Planning in Philadelphia from 1992 to 1993. In 2011, he was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the UN for Management and Reform. He shared the statement, “My responsibility is much more than just ensuring that the Treasury is investing that money wisely, it’s a commitment to having programs and services that invest in a better future for Pennsylvanians.”

Garrity is a Retired Army Reserve Colonel and is decorated for her service on the battlefields of Iraq.

Garrity is in favor of transparency of tax usage, wants to make education affordable and wishes to eliminate wasteful spending and hidden fees of Pennsylvanian’s taxes.

Running for District 17 representative in the Pennsylvania State Senate are Amanda Cappelletti (Democrat) and Ellen Fisher (Republican).

Cappelletti has worked as the Vice Chair at the East Norriton Township Board of Supervisors and a Director of Policy at Planned Parenthood. Cappelletti said, “I am running to bring a fresh voice to the Senate

and represent the new generation of leadership, while bringing a background of advocacy to the legislature.” She believes in the preservation of healthcare, fair and equal funding for schools, environmental reform, reproductive rights and gun control.

Fisher is the current Executive Director of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy. She ensures that the district’s schools will be properly funded and locally controlled. She is a supporter of small businesses and believes in the reduction of healthcare costs. Fisher also plans to invest in infrastructure and updating the state’s technology.

Running for representative for District 166 in the Pennsylvania House are incumbent Gregory Vitali (Democrat) and Christine Boyle (Republican).

Vitali has been the District 166 representative since 1993. He received his J.D. from Villanova Law School in 1981 and serves as the Chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. He has “committed his life to environmental protection” and was the first Pennsylvania legislature to “introduce climate change legislation and…the idea of severance tax on natural gas.”

Boyle began her legal career as a public defender for the Legal Aid Society. She believes in the support of local businesses by means of state funded aid as well as holding the federal government accountable with the use of taxpayer dollars.

She emphasizes the importance of moderation, arguing, “to achieve the progress we want in our country, our political environment needs to be cohesive, free from harsh extremism.”

Weekly Club Spotlight: Business of Fashion Society Kaelin Trombly Staff Writer Devin Toolen Staff Writer

Although the Main Line and Madison Avenue may be more than 100 miles apart, a dynamic club at the University has worked diligently to make the fashion world seem a lot closer.

The Business of Fashion Society (BOF) at Villanova was created two years ago by now alumnae Michelle Fierro, Susie Hamman and current senior Keeley Scott. At the time of the creation of BOF at the Universsity, these students saw that there was an interest in fashion at school, yet no fashion majors, courses or ways to incorporate fashion into their studies. Fashion was something they were interested in and passionate about, but they had no outlet through the University to seek more information about positions in the industry or connections with brands.

“There was no source of education [about fashion], or networking,” current President Scott said. “At the career fair, you were not seeing fashion companies, you were not seeing [fashion] employers coming to campus and there was no overall discussion amongst students and faculty [about fashion].”

Because of this, the BOF Society was created. Its goal is to serve

as a bridge between current students interested in pursuing careers in fashion and professionals already in the field. What started as a simple desire amongst three students has turned into a successful campus organization that meets with various brand representatives, creates panel events and hosts Zoom calls with fashion companies.

Right now, BOF at Villanova has connected with many different brands through Zoom or Skype calls.

These calls give students an opportunity to listen to professionals and ask questions about potential careers in fashion. Scott mentioned how the connections BOF currently has are through past managers or mentors she and other executive board members have had. They also look to the club’s advisor, Brenda Stover, for connections with alumni.

Due to COVID-19 regulations, BOF has not been able to hold club meetings as usual. Senior Nicole Calandrino, Social Media Director, said that the Executive Board had to come up with creative ideas to alter the club for consistent engagement.

Their ideas included the creation of a newsletter and monthly themes for the club. The theme for the month of October is menswear. Calandrino will post and repost content related to the monthly theme on the BOF’s Instagram account.

“Since things are a little less structured this year because meetings are on Zoom and not in person, [monthly themes] give people an idea

A student poses for a shoot sponsored by BOF. Courtesy of @bofvillanova

of what we will be talking about,” Calandrino said.

While the regulations have impacted club meetings with the student body, Calandrino and Scott both agree that the club has not missed out on much in terms of employer or brand calls. In the past, the club has had Skype calls with employers from far distances. If anything, having calls completely on Zoom this year have allowed for more students to be able to join in and participate from their dorms or off campus residences.

The BOF Society is still a relatively new club. Both Calandrino and Scott hope to see the club grow into something great at the University.

“I’ll know this club has succeeded and reached its presence on campus when I see a fashion or beauty company doing a Bartley takeover,” Scott said when describing her hopes for the future of BOF at Villanova.

Normally, Bartley takeovers feature finance or accounting companies that come to campus in hopes to recruit University students.

“I want more fashion and beauty companies to think of Villanova students when they look to hire,” Scott said.

You can follow @BOFVillanova on Instagram for more information on meetings, monthly themes and club collaborations.

14 | The Villanovan

SPORTS

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

SPORTS

Men’s Basketball Team Participates in Early Voting Alex Tantum Staff Writer

Voting is one of the most important powers we as citizens have the privilege to exercise, and for this voting cycle, there have been high levels of encouragement from not only politicians, but also companies and sports teams at the collegiate and professional level, urging citizens to exercise that power.

The men’s basketball team exercised its right to vote, some for the first time, this past Saturday, Oct. 24th in the Finneran Pavilion.

In doing so, team members set an example for the school community, some of whom are also voting for the first time, to make sure to vote and make our voices heard.

Laura Manion, the Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations at the University, helped organize the team’s voting so that it was a smooth process, getting the team to “the finish line.”

Each member of the team received his absentee ballot, meaning that the players could officially cast their votes for not only the presidential election, but also for state and local elections. Additionally, each person could answer any questions which posed on the ballot.

Villanova players were not the only ones who voted on Saturday, as head coach Jay Wright was

that was by voting,” Chris Arcidiacono said.

Meanwhile, Bryan Antoine said that he “was nervous but more excited. My first time being able to vote in a very meaningful election and making an impact my own way.”

Junior forward Cole Swider also voted for the first time

“It felt amazing to vote for the first time,” he said when reflecting on the importance of this election in American history.

Swider also expressed support for his teammates and coaches for exercising their respective right to vote, and encouraged “everyone to get out and vote for the change that is needed.”

Seniors Jermaine Samuels and Collin Gillespie are also firsttime voters. Both student-athletes stressed the importance of voting in this election particularly.

“We are all about to be a Men’s basketball players and Coach Wright pose with their sealed ballots. part of one of the biggest elections Courtesy of @VUCoachJWright Twitter in our history, and I am just grateful right there with them.

“First time voting will be to be a part of that,” Samuels said.

“What a powerful day as something I will never forget,”

“In such a critical time, it we set the tone to make our voices sophomore guard Justin Moore is important to get out and vote to heard and celebrate a few first-time said. “Knowing that my vote truly play a role in picking the right leadvoters,” Wright tweeted. matters and that I had a huge reer for our country,” Gillespie added.

Threaded onto Wright’s sponsibility to help make a change

Professional athletes around tweet, some players offered their in this society is special.” the country are advocating for all own comments on what it means

Other sophomore guards of- eligible voters to go out and exercise to vote. For most of them, it will fered their thoughts on the meaning that right. Villanova Athletics has be their first time participating in of their vote and the feelings which made it clear that it also supports a presidential election, and being a they experienced while voting. the sentiment of increasing voter first-time voter comes with excite “I love my country, my free- turnout, no matter political party ment and nerevousness. dom, and the best way I could show affiliation.

Swim & Dive Teams Host Opening Weekend for Cup Madison Burke Co-Sports Editor

The Villanova swim and dive teams kicked off The Caritas Cup racing series on Oct. 24 with the I.M. Great session. After its season was postponed and may be cancelled due to COVID-19, the men’s and women’s swim teams were forced to get creative.

The Caritas Cup consists of five days of racing over four weekends. Nov. 7 will be the Mid-Distance Madness, followed

by The Caritas Cup Sprintacular on Nov.14. The final competition will take place Nov. 20-21, when the final prizes will be awarded to the student-athletes.

The cup consists of five “caps,” which will be awarded across different categories.

After the first day of events, junior Kelly Montesi and freshman Richard Nolan led the Yellow Cap competition as overall points leaders. The duo also are the long events leaders, the Red Cap. Additionally, Nolan is the leader for the freshmen in the hunt for the White Cap title with women’s teammate Audrey Pastorek.

The Green Cap, or the short event, leaders are senior Rayann Jaryszak and sophomore Kevin Geist. Jaryszak is currently leading the Blue Cap competition with freshman Ethan Brown, with the closest times to NCAA qualify-

ing times in their respective events.

For the women, Jaryszak and sophomore Kaitlin Gravell are also in the hunt for the overall points Yellow Cap.

It is not a shock that Montesi is on top of the leaderboard.

Montesi is coming off a stellar sophomore season, with three individual conference titles and four team relays. In her first two years, Montesi received 11 Big East Championship titles, with five of them being individual titles.

Villanova’s women’s swim and dive team has dominated the Big East, sweeping the Big East Championships for the past seven years. With no secured date for competition in sight, the team must stay on top of its game in hopes of an eighth title.

Nolan is already making a name for himself on the men’s team. He finished the day with 17 points, followed closely by senior Mishko Prikasky and Giest, who have 15 points, respectively. The men’s team finished in fourth at the Big East Championship last year. With help from Nolan and other underclassmen, the team could take home a medal.

Sports teams around the world struggle to find fun ways to keep their competitive edge in the time of COVID-19, and Villanova’s swim and dive teams are executing this perfectly. Since both teams are unable to leave campus and race other collegiaete teams,

they created a highly competitive intersquad race.

The swim team has adhered to COVID-19 protocols by practicing in small groups (pods) as the University has recommended

and has not let these conditions conflict with training.

With four days of racing left to compete for those top positions, each race will be something to watch out for.

Montesi leads the team in overall points after one day of races.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

SPORTS

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

The Villanovan | 15

Men’s Basketball Mourns Loss of ’61 Alum, Jim Huggard Billy Vinci Co-Sports Editor

Jim Huggard, 1961 University graduate and former member of the mens’ basketball team, passed away on Friday, Oct. 16.

Huggard was a member of the men’s basketball team from 1958-61 and is a member of the Philadelphia Big Five Hall of Fame.

He is also a member of the Villano-

va Basketball Hall of Fame.

Men’s basketball head coach Jay Wright released a statement on Twitter sharing the news and expressing his sympathies.

“Our Villanova Family mourns the passing of a @NovaMBB Legend Jim Huggard,” Wright tweeted. “The original tough Philly, Villanova guard. Our love and prayers go out to the Huggard family.”

Huggard was from the area

Huggard helped pave Villanova’s path to basketball greatness.

Courtesy of Villanova Athletics

and graduated from West Catholic High School in Philadelphia, cementing his place as one of the original, tough Philadelphia guards, as mentioned in Wright’s tweet.

The tweet had multiple comments from Villanova basketball fans and classmates of Huggard sending their condolences to the family during this time.

During his three years as a member of the team, Huggard averaged 15.8 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, establishing himself as one of the early greats of the men’s basketball program.

Huggard played under head coach Alexander Severance and made his mark early on as a sophomore during his first year with the team. That year, he averaged 15.2 points per game and helped lead Villanova to a 18-7 record and a bid to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT).

As a junior, Huggard averaged 15 points per game and helped lead the Wildcats to a 20-6 record and a second straight NIT berth.

He averaged a career high 17.3 points per game as a senior on the team.

Huggard appeared in 75 games for Villanova and totaled 1,184 points in his career. He was one of Villanova’s first 1,000 point scorers.

Today, 1,000 point scorers are celebrated, but it is doubly impressive when one considers that Huggard only played three years of varsity basketball at Villanova, played without a three point line

and still easily surpassed the 1,000 point threshold.

In his first two seasons as a Wildcat, Huggard shot 39% from the field. As a senior, his accuracy grew to 42% from the field and 77% from the free throw line, strong signs of his hard work and ability to improve. Not only was he a standout player, but he helped the team tremendously, leading the Wildcats to a 49-26 record in his three years.

Despite playing before the days of the Big East and an expanded NCAA Tournament, Huggard helped lead the basketball program to the sky high heights it sits at today.

The culture of the Villanova men’s basketball program goes back to its early days, including what Huggard did at Villanova. Without the likes of Huggard and his head coach Al Severance, Villanova might not be seen as one of the elite programs in the college basketball world.

After graduating from Villanova, Huggard continued with basketball. He played professionally in the Eastern League, which was an elite league in the days before NBA expansion, and he worked as a Division I referee and basketball coach.

Two of his seasons as a head coach were at nearby Bonner-Prendergast, a member of the Philadelphia Catholic League. Huggard coached two seasons at the local high school starting in 1978 and went 12-16 in Catholic League games.

Villanova Football Announces Six-Game Spring Schedule Billy Vinci Co-Sports Editor

The Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) officially announced the schedule for the 2020 spring football season. After months of contemplation over whether the season would occur, the CAA finally made a decision to move forward.

On July 17, the Board of Directors at the CAA announced it would suspend all conference play through the end of the year. However, Villanova said that the situation would be watched carefully, following the guidance of university officials. Unfortunately, no other news came regarding the football season on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

After months of waiting, the 2021 spring football season is planned to start for the Wildcats on March 6.

The format of the CAA season will prove to be far different than in years past. It will consist of six games for each team within two divisions. Three of those games will be away games, while the other three will be at home.

“We are pleased to announce the conference schedule for the 2021 Spring football season, but understand this is just the next step in the planning process associated with playing football on each of our campuses,” CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio said

in a statement. “Our unique divisional format was developed with the goal of enhancing safety and reducing the risks associated with travel during this difficult period of time, while still providing a fair and competitive model to determine a champion. Today’s announcement hopefully provides an additional level of excitement for the student-athletes and coaches who have worked hard and made numerous sacrifices over the past eight months. As always, health and safety remain at the forefront of all return-to-play decisions that we as a Conference continue to make.”

The North Division consists of Albany, Delaware, Maine, New

Hampshire, Rhode Island, Stony Brook and Villanova. The South division includes Elon, James Madison, Richmond and William & Mary.

Each institution is allowed to schedule two non-conference games into their respective schedules if they choose to. However, these two games will not be added into the team’s overall record. The team that has the best record at the end of their six games has an automatic bid to the NCAA championship. The NCAA championship is set to take place on April 24.

Of the two divisions, it’s likely that Villanova will receive the benefit of an easier schedule.

The ’Cats open with the Stony Brook Seawolves, who went 5-7 last season and only 2-6 in CAA play.

From there, the team will return home to play the Rhode Island Rams at Villanova Stadium.

The Rams finished in last place in the CAA in 2019, going just 2-10 in the season and 0-8 in conference.

The Wildcats will remain home after that matchup, this time to take on the New Hampshire Wildcats. New Hampshire will be a bit more of a difficult test for Villanova, as the team went 6-5 in the regular season and finished with the same conference record as Villanova, at 5-3.

Villanova then heads back on the road to Orono to face the Maine Black Bears. Maine was an average team last season, finishing at 6-6 overall and 4-4 in the CAA. The Wildcats then finish their road schedule with their toughest opponent, the Albany Great Danes.

Albany came in second place in the conference last season, finishing at 9-5 overall and 6-2 in CAA play. The Great Danes made the playoffs last season but lost in the first round to Montana State by a score of 47-21.

The Wildcats season concludes at home with the Battle of the Blue in a rivalry matchup against Delaware. The Blue Hens DeeWil Barlee (28) celebrates with teammates Elijah Glover (30) and Robet Brady (84). went 5-7 last season and 3-5 in Courtesy of Villanova Athletics CAA play.

A OV

AN

L VIL

DINING SERVICES

Villanova Dining Services

Halloween Treats saturday, October 31 Dinner Donahue, Dougherty, & St. Mary’s Join us for some spooky desserts Cupcakes Rice Krispies Treats Worms & Dirt Candy Bar

Diwali Dinner Festival of Lights Thursday, November 5

Donahue~ Dougherty ~ St. Mary’s

menu Butter Chicken Gobhi Masaledaar Vegetable Korma Jasmine Rice Masala Potatoes Naan Bread