4 CULTURE 9 OPINION Meet the LS Sophomore Calling Confronting the Contradiction For Fat Liberation of NYU Abu Dhabi

7 ARTS 10 SPORTS ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’: A Wrestling Team Claims UAA Masterful Exploration of Love Championship

VOLUME LIV | ISSUE 4 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

NYUAD Anniversary Riddled With Controversy

MEG NAKAGAWA | WSN The Arts Center for NYU Abu Dhabi houses several studio spaces, workshops, and classrooms available for students. NYU Abu Dhabi as a whole recently celebrated its tenth anniversary.

By AARUSHI SHARMA tween NYU and Abu Dhabi’s gov- neering, science and social sciences, US universities have taken their own NYUAD has launched its Staff Writer ernment. This has led to growing in addition to several minor and spe- steps in global higher education, concern among the NYU communi- cialization options. The university proving its appeal and reaffirming milestone project to celebrate NYU Abu Dhabi is brimming ty about NYUAD’s autonomy as a employs over 300 people and received the value for higher education of with activity as the university pre- private university since grants from more than 14,000 applications for preparing students to be leaders in the university’s first decade, pares to celebrate its 10-year anni- the United Arab Emirates govern- the class of 2023; the administration this global century,” Hamilton said versary, but the milestone offers a ment make up about 99% of NYU- plans increase enrollment by 40 per- in a press release. “As we celebrate despite controversy over chance to reflect on its legacy. AD’s total revenue. cent over the next five years. NYU NYU Abu Dhabi’s first decade NYUAD opened in 2010 as Abu The campus welcomed 148 stu- President Andrew Hamilton spoke with pride, we look forward to its academic freedom and labor Dhabi’s first liberal arts and science dents its opening semester and to- on the university’s achievements. many achievements and contribu- institute administered by an Amer- day boasts 24 undergraduate majors “In the wake of NYU Abu Dha- tions yet to come.” law violations. ican university — a joint effort be- spanning arts and humanities, engi- bi’s resounding success, other major CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 Washington Square News TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

[email protected] NEWS Edited by LISA COCHRAN and EMILY MASON NYUAD Anniversary Riddled With Controversy

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Xinyi Zou said it had been her dream community,” Westermann said in laborers working on the construction detainment of Durham University Since 2010, major universities in- school since her freshman year of high a press release. of the Saadiyat Island campus were doctoral student Matthew Hedges. cluding Duke Kunshan University, school, citing its diverse community. While NYUAD boasts innovative subject to labor rights abuses un- Incoming first-year Mauricio University of Utah and the American “I can’t think of any other school research, student achievements and der the supervision of subcontrac- Lamoyi — who plans to NYUAD College have established campuses where I can sit down at any random a growing faculty, the site’s com- tors hired by NYU. in the fall — said his decision to at- around the globe including locations table with people speaking eight dif- mitments to NYU values have been Two years later, the NYU Journal- tend was influenced by his admira- in China, South Korea and Spain. ferent languages,” Zou said. questioned over the years by faculty ism Department boycotted the cam- tion for the UAE’s culture. He stat- To celebrate the anniversary, the NYUAD Vice Chancellor Mariët members and students amidst issues pus after two professors’ visa applica- ed that he is concerned about these NYUAD campus and the extended Westermann said the Abu Dhabi of violating labor laws and denying tions to teach there were denied. controversies, but they have not NYU global community will be put- campus offers a glimpse into the fu- visas to faculty members on grounds The following year, changed his decision. ting together an archive of students’ ture of global higher education. of religion. Most recently, NYUAD professors hosted a forum to discuss “I don’t know if they are true or and faculty members’ personal mem- “NYUAD has shown that higher has faced criticism for compromising what they saw as the university’s fail- not, but I see attending NYU Abu ories of NYUAD. The multimedia education can simultaneously in- academic freedom. NYUAD and its ure to hold the UAE responsible for Dhabi as an opportunity for students project will be available to view on tegrate the best of the old and the affiliates have previously refrained upholding academic freedom. The fo- to make a difference,” Lamoyi said. the NYUAD website later this year. new, advance human creativity and from acknowledging these claims. rum was designed to deal with previ- Recounting her decision to accept societal development, and address In 2015, an independent investiga- ous grievances against NYUAD, and Email Aarushi Sharma her admissions offer, NYUAD junior the challenges facing the global tive firm found that 10,000 of 40,000 more immediately address the UAE’s at [email protected].

Three Professors Granted Prestigious Sloan Awards

zo said. “Right now the situation is and the most interesting, and that that these kinds of tools require a lot freedom, I think, is part of why we’re of expertise.” being recognized at this moment.” But Panozzo wants these simu- lations to be available to a wider Anna Choromanska population. He and his group hope Choromanska’s research centers to develop tools for those without around machine learning, large data mathematical expertise to simulate analysis and optimization, as they ap- how geometric shapes are formed. ply to innovations in artificial intel- Panozzo echoed the sentiment of ligence and self-driving car systems. the other two recipients, that he ap- She said the Sloan award was a rec- preciated the recognition that came ognition of efforts for research she with the award and added that the has been exploring since her post- grant would continue to support his doctoral degree. The grant will allow group at the Geometric Computing her to investigate and develop algo- Lab — an embodiment of all of his rithms for what she refers to as “loss efforts — to continue research. functions,” the properties of which A third-year computer science she said have previously not been doctoral student Yixin Hu, who is well understood. part of Panozzo’s team and was one She did her postdoctoral research of his first doctoral students, said at Courant and has been faculty at his work in the field of geometry Tandon since 2017. Choromanska merited the grant. cited her success to resources provid- “I would say his work is really solid ed to her through NYU as well as the so I think he deserves the prize,” Hu outgoing nature of other faculty. said. “I’m surprised because it’s hard “The NYU environment is ex-

CHELSEA LI | WSN to get the fellowship.” tremely supportive and inspiring,” Daniele Panozzo, Christine Constantinople and Anna Choromanska received the Alfred P. Sloan award this year. Choromanska said. “It’s very easy to Christine Constantinople collaborate, to discuss ideas.” Constantinople bears a degree in Third-year doctoral student Shi- By LISA COCHRAN systematic understanding of the a discipline that works on figuring neuroscience from the College of hong Fang, who currently works News Editor forces of nature and society, when out how to realize tools for modeling Arts and Science. While she went on with Choromanska, said her accolade applied inventively and wisely, can geometry and rendering geometry to get a doctorate from Columbia was well deserved. Three NYU assistant professors lead to a better world for all.” how to convert a mathematical rep- University and post-doctorate from “She cares a lot about her students received prestigious awards from the To receive a fellowship, researchers resentation of the world into imag- , Constantino- and she always says she’s my ‘academ- Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, granting must first be nominated via a senior es,” Panozzo said. ple returned to NYU around a year ic mom,’” Fang laughed. them $75,000 for research endeavors department member or researcher of Panozzo said his technology could ago to start her lab supported by the Choromanska said her initial across a span of two years. the nominee’s respective field. Only help people more easily design essen- NYU Center for Neural Science. reaction to the news was to rec- Tandon School of Engineer- one to three grant nominations are tial structures, such as tables or even Her research aims to under- ognize those who supported her ing professor Anna Choromanska, allowed per department. Recipients airplane wings by allowing them to stand value-based decision-mak- research efforts. Center for Neural Science profes- are chosen based on their creativity, create digital simulations of the ob- ing and how neural circuits facili- “A lot of my success comes from a sor Christine Constantinople and research advancement and potential jects to test how they would behave if tate the process. lot of people who have been believ- Courant Institute of Mathematical within the scientific community, the built in the material world. “We’re interested in where in the ing in me and providing support and Science professor Daniele Panozzo website states. “That was historically used for brain we assign value to actions and good advice,” Choromanska said. are among 126 others named Sloan Founded in 1934 as a New York movies and [video] games, but as the to outcomes,” Constantinople said. “This was my first reaction really, Research Fellows across the U.S and City-based non-profit, it bears the field proceeds, it turns out that many Much of her research on behavior [...] to make sure that those people Canada in 2020. The awards are dis- name of its founder, the former CEO of the problems that we were facing involves the use of lab rats, a method who have been standing by my side tributed annually, every February. of General Motors Alfred Pritchard were really on ‘How do you acquire she said will be further supplemented are really acknowledged and know Recipients of Sloan awards are Sloan. The fellowship program it- geometry in the real world?’ ‘How do with the award funds. that I care about them.” generally non-tenured researchers self was initiated in 1955 and since you process it?’” Panozzo said. “You “It’s generous support that can Besides the great minds and re- early in their careers — but several its founding, has produced 50 No- can think of it as sort of like man- both help pay for lab expenses and sources available to her through years past doctorate completion — in bel Prize winners and 69 National aging the life of a shape, that goes just kind of support the research in NYU, she further attributes her suc- one of eight fields related to educa- Medals of Science. from like a physical object to some the day to day,” Constantinople said. cess to her family. tion, science and economics, accord- other variant.” She found there to be good institu- “Behind the success and all that ing to the foundation’s website. Daniele Panozzo He said that a key component of tional support for both her research is also very much my husband, my “The Foundation believes that Panozzo’s research at Courant this investigation involved the use of and the award nomination process. child and my brother because they’re these fields—and the scholars and — where he has been for the last partial differential equations used to “NYU has been really supportive, all in New York,“ Choromanska practitioners who work in them—are four years — involves developing simulate physical phenomena. we have this beautiful lab space,” said. “Family support is always the chief drivers of the nation’s health algorithms and tools to better form “These kinds of simulations have Constantinople said. “We feel like most important.” and prosperity,” the organization’s geometric designs. been used for a long time, Boeing has we’ve really been empowered to pur- mission statement reads. “The Foun- “My research has been in com- been using simulations for their de- sue the true research questions that Email Lisa Cochran dation also believes that a reasoned, puter graphics, which historically is sign of airplanes for decades,” Panoz- we think are the most fundamental at [email protected]. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Washington Square News | News 3

CRIME LOG Tandon Professor Elected to National Academy of Engineering Three Reports of

By MINA MOHAMMADI Marzetta recounted his early inter- he said. “I never taught or worked in Sexual Assault, One Deputy News Editor est in his field. education before, so it seemed like “I was introduced at a very early something I wanted to try.” Thomas L. Marzetta’s father always age to electronics and technology,” Since joining NYU in 2017, hoped he would be a doctor, but in- Marzetta said to WSN. “I initially Marzetta held positions on the Advi- Referred to Title IX stead, Marzetta found himself teaching wanted to be a chemist, but switched sory Board of Massive MIMO for Ef- engineering 40 years later. This month, to electrical engineering. The [engi- ficient Transmission and Coordinator ington Place. The case is open his work in the field earned him a nom- neering] courses were just simply the of the GreenTouch Consortium Large By CRIME BOT Robot Reporter and under investigation. ination to the National Academy of most fascinating for me.” Scale Antenna Systems Project. Both On Feb. 10 at 10:27 p.m., a Engineering, one of the highest profes- Marzetta worked in the engineering projects had a concentration on ad- student reported a harassment sional honors available to an engineer. industry for almost 40 years, special- vancing wireless technology. Content warning: this article mentions rape. on East 4th St. and Lafayette Marzetta teaches at NYU Tan- izing in petroleum exploration then Each of these research projects have Street. Police notification was don and is currently the Director of switching to defense. Initially, he never received accolades within the scientific From Feb. 9 to 13, the NYU declined and the case is open NYU Wireless Labs — the largest re- planned to go into education. community and led to his subsequent and under investigation. search lab at Tandon with a focus on “I was offered an opportunity for election to the National Academy of Department of Public Safety received two reports of Crim- On Feb. 10 at 12:45 p.m., a wireless research. this new, great career at NYU Tandon,” Engineering. Well-regarded academies student reported a harass- like the NAE are on call for national inal Mischief, one report of Criminal Trespass, one report ment on Broadway and Wash- service — if there is a pressing techni- ington Place. A police report cal question, the government turns to of Drug Law Violation, one report of Drug Law Violation/ was filed and the case is open these members for answers. and under investigation. “Academy membership honors Liquor Law Violation, one re- port of Fondling, seven reports On Feb. 12 at 9:55 a.m., a those who have made outstanding student reported being ha- contributions to engineering research, of Harassment, seven reports of Larceny, one report of Li- rassed in Washington Square practice, or education,” the press Park. Police notification was release reads. quor Law Violation and two reports of Rape. declined and the case is open Marzetta expressed his praise of the and under investigation. NAE and its recognition of his wireless Criminal Mischief On Feb. 13 at 9 p.m., a stu- technology research. dent reported being harassed “It is genuinely thrilling to be part On Feb. 9 at 10:29 a.m., an RA reported witnessing graffi- as she was exiting University of an organization with such great con- Hall. Police notification was tributors to the field of engineering,” ti in Carlyle Court. The case is open and under investigation. declined and the case is open Marzetta said. “It is also great to see my and under investigation. particular field of wireless technology On Feb. 10 at 7:51 a.m., a being paid more attention to.” Public Safety Lieutenant re- ported graffiti outside of 238 Larceny Marzetta said prospective engineers On Feb. 9 at 6:15 p.m., a stu- should keep the importance of ad- Thompson St. The case is open and under investigation. dent reported a missing per- vancement in the field in mind. sonal item in Founders Hall. “Don’t be afraid to think different- Criminal Trespass The case is open and under ly if you really want to make an im- On Feb. 13 at 8:50 p.m., a investigation. pact,” he said. “Read everything with On Feb. 10 at 10:25 p.m., a skepticism, because the biggest break- student reported a criminal trespass in Founders Hall. student reported a missing throughs are from people that are not phone in Rubin Hall. The case scared to question others.” Public Safety escorted the person out without further in- is open and under investiga- cident. Police notification was tion. Email Mina Mohammadi PHOTO COURTESY OF NYU TANDON declined and the case is open On Feb. 10 at 10:43 p.m., a at [email protected]. Professor Thomas Marzzeta was elected to the National Academy of Engineering. and under investigation. student reported a missing wallet in Palladium Hall. A po- Drug Law Violation lice report was filed and the On Feb. 10 at 9:17 p.m., an case is open and under inves- RA reported illegal drug pos- tigation. session in Founders Hall. The On Feb. 11 at 2:25 a.m., a stu- case is closed and referred to dent reported a missing ring in the Office of Community Stan- the Henry Kaufman Manage- dards. ment Center. The case is open and under investigation. Washington Square News Drug Law Violation/Li- On Feb. 13 at 12:05 a.m., a quor Law Violation student reported a missing On Feb. 12 at 9 p.m., an RA personal item in Palladium reported underage alcohol Hall. Police notification was possession and marijuana pos- declined and the case is open session in Carlyle Court. The and under investigation. case is closed and referred to On Feb. 13 at 1:27 p.m., a stu- the Office of Community Stan- dent reported missing medica- dards. tion in Lafayette Hall. Police notification was declined and Fondling the case is open and under in- On Feb. 10 at 8:55 p.m., a vestigation. student reported a fondling On Feb. 13 at 6:09 p.m., a @nyunews outside of 726 Broadway. The student reported a missing case is open and under inves- coat in Third North. Police no- tigation. tification was declined and the case is open and under inves- Harassment tigation. On Feb. 9 at 6 p.m., a student reported a harassment in the Rape Global Center for Academic On Feb. 10 at 10:11 a.m., a and Spiritual Life. Police noti- student reported a rape in fication was declined and the Third North. Police notification case is open and under inves- was declined and the case is tigation. open and under investigation. On Feb. 10 at 10:23 a.m., a On Feb. 12 at 7:15 p.m., a student reported a harass- student reported a rape that @nyunews ment in Washington Square occurred in 2019 in Palladium Park. The case is open and un- Hall. The case is closed and re- der investigation. ferred to Title IX. On Feb. 10 at 6:04 p.m., a student reported a harass- Email Crime Bot ment on Broadway and Wash- at [email protected]. 4 Washington Square News TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

[email protected] CULTURE Edited by BELLA GIL Meet the LS Sophomore Calling For Fat Liberation

ida,’’ Abraham told WSN. “I was able to seen on her page. it is important, but that is not where it surround myself with people that I wish I Although she does not read the com- should end,’’ she said. ‘’If you are an ad- could be surrounded by in real life.’’ ments on her page, Abraham is aware of vocate for body positivity, you also have Through social media, Abraham was how often people use the term “fat” to to be an advocate for fat liberation. You able to connect with users who shared ridicule her. This is why she believes in have to give voices for fat people, be- and acknowledged her beliefs. Not only the importance of using the word to de- cause they are not experiencing the same did this spark her confidence to express scribe herself objectively. things as you are.’’ her opinions, but it also brought a wave “If I use that as a neutral term to de- Being a fat activist is a label Abraham of self-love that continues to grow. scribe my body, then when people use it, proudly identifies with. However, she is “The longer I have this page, the or try to use it as a way to offend me or not fond of categorizing herself as an in- more confident that I get in myself,’’ hurt me, it means nothing,’’ she said. “I fluencer, since she believes that the term Abraham said. “Not because of follow- am taking away that power, and no pow- contradicts her views. Regardless, Abra- ers or anything, but because of people er remains in that term.’’ ham is aware that people pay attention to I follow — my feed is full of fat people. Many of Abraham’s posts consist of her opinions no matter how she sees her Seeing people who experience what I ex- political memes and images of herself, status on social media. perience, and who look like me, and I can captioned with stories of her experiences “I just hope that maybe my page makes see myself in them — that is the biggest as a mixed-race fat woman. With these people question ideas they do agree with, impact for me.’’ posts, she strives to make her message of and question their beliefs, and under-

JAKE CAPRIOTTI | WSN According to Abraham, many are body-positivity and fat acceptance clear. stand why they think the way they do,’’ Liberal Studies sophomore Victoria Abraham runs an Instagram page called @fat_fab_ ignorant of fatphobia as a concept; “You have seen ‘Pitch Perfect’; [the she said. “I just think it is important that feminist. She aims to encourage the acceptance of all body types. this is why it is her goal is to educate character] Fat Amy calls herself fat and people should see another perspective her followers about the importance of she puts it out there,” said Abraham. that they do not see every day.” By MADISON SAN MIGUEL ham uses her social media platform to fat liberation. “I think that is like the same thing with Regarding the future of her page, Staff Writer communicate her message about fat stig- “If people do not have somebody who me. I am fat, I am visibly fat. There is no Abraham hopes to continue expressing ma. This message includes the social ac- can help them understand what is going way that you can look at me and say, ‘Oh, her beliefs on fatphobia and sharing her The establishment of a feminist club ceptance of a fat body type as well as the on, I try to give them a new perspective,’’ you’re not fat’. I am. I know that I am. experiences for her audience to better un- at her high school influenced Liberal liberation of “fat” as a derogatory term. she said. “I know that for some of my I live with my body every day and know derstand the topic. Studies. sophomore Victoria Abraham She also announces current events and friends, they did not get what fatphobia what I look like. I am not, under any illu- “I do not know if I have a real message to create her Instagram page, @fat_fab_ shares her experiences as a fat woman. was, or any of that stuff, until I started to sions, saying that is not what I am.’’ or anything,’’ she said. “My entire goal feminist. The then-junior sought to be At first society’s standards impeded talk about it.’’ Although the body positive move- in life is to leave the world better than I heard in the small city of Boca Raton, her confidence. But then, she discovered One of the various issues that cultivate ment claims to fight for all body types, found it. After all, I am just a normal per- Florida, despite the constant attempts a massive body-positive community on systemic fatphobia is the fear and abuse Abraham believes that there is a flaw in son who happens to have a large platform from her peers to silence her. Now, she social media, and everything changed. of using the term “fat” to categorize bod- its crusade. As the movement became to talk about the things I care about.’’ has over 26,000 followers, and the whole “When I first started my page, it was an ies. Abraham finds that we need to halt more mainstream, she saw a decline in fat nation is hearing her. escape for me and from the insufferable the stigmatization of the term in order acceptance from body activists. Email Madison San Miguel As a feminist and “fat activist,” Abra- repetition of what it is like to live in Flor- to normalize its use. This abuse is often “I am body positive, and I think that at [email protected].

The World Beyond

By SABRINA CHOUDHARY ties in the city. counter vehicles too much. Here there’s of shops playing music out loud; it just The fact is that neighborhoods like Staff Writer “An expanded worldview,” Miller em- constant traffic.” seems very festive over there. They have have everything a phasized. “If [students] just stay in this But the main draw for these students a lot of colorful different shops, and I student could need — trendy food, a When stu- little bubble, they won’t see what life real- is the drastically more prevalent multicul- really like going into Latin American su- plethora of stores, entertainment and a dents visit their friends at Tandon, they ly is outside of the student view.” turalism in the other boroughs. permarkets and seeing all of the cultural secure campus community — and many jokingly call it “going abroad.” For many, Sebastian Anlas, a CAS sophomore Shonak said that she searched hard for things that they sell.” students don’t feel the need to leave. But crossing the East River is not just entering from Forest Hills, raved about the Peruvian spots in Manhattan last year and “The minority populations are much by branching out, students will discover a different borough of the city but step- outer boroughs. didn’t find anything. Eventually, she ven- more vibrant [outside of Manhattan],” that there’s so much more to New York ping into a totally different world. “[There’s] cheaper stuff, just less pol- tured out and found what she was look- Anlas agreed. “Like in Roosevelt, there’s than just Manhattan. Tisch sophomore Deborah Shonack, a lution, a little bit,” he said. “Something ing for in Queens and Jackson Heights. a big Latino population; in Elmhurst Gramercy Green resident, admitted that that I miss is just being able to go on long “I just really like walking down Roo- where I grew up there’s a big Chinese Email Sabrina Choudhary she only leaves Manhattan about once stretches of walks without having to en- sevelt Avenue,” she said. “There are a lot population, stuff like that.” at [email protected]. per month, but appreciates the diversity of the outer boroughs. “I think each borough has its own different personality in a sense, and there are a lot of things you can’t find in Man- hattan that are in the other boroughs and vice versa,” said Deborah Shonack. “All of the boroughs make up the city. Man- hattan isn’t just it.” There are many features of the outer boroughs that Manhattan can’t beat. One of them is green spaces. Flush- ing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, known for its world’s fair memorabil- ia and for hosting the U.S. Open since 1978, is one of Shonack’s favorite places in the outer boroughs to visit. “It’s like, really, really huge and has the Queens Museum in it. My friends and I were enjoying the cherry blossom season last year, and they looked really pretty, and we had a picnic, and it was just a lot of fun,” she said. Other students also seem to enjoy the parks in the outer boroughs. CAS soph- omore Ian Miller is a commuter from East Flatbush and said that one of his favorite places is Prospect Park in Brook- lyn. He believes that students who don’t explore the outer boroughs are missing ALEX TRAN | WSN out on learning about other communi- The boardwalk at Coney Island quiets down as visitors dwindle for the day. Peaceful moments can be hard to find in Manhattan, causing students to branch out and explore differ- ent boroughs. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Washington Square News | Culture 5

First-Year’s Jewelry Business Encourages Inclusion By NYA ETIENNE who loves to express themselves and is very a new roll-out coming in March, and her package coordinations, communication Staff Writer open to expression,” said Spann. team is working to bring it all together. Part with influencers and customer service. This selection is evident in the pieces in of the team includes Tisch first-year Destiny According to Spann, “the most frustrat- Stern first-year Nya-Simone Spann is the the shop: asymmetrical earrings, minimalis- Brown, one of Spann’s photographers, and ing and difficult part is when you feel so pas- founder and CEO of the fashion-forward ac- tic gold earrings and even headscarves with a makeup artist Gallatin first-year Andrew Au. sionate about both things … I love what I do cessories brand Simone’s Pieces. Her warm mini ball, charm or intricate weaving. “When I talked to Nya about what look in school and also the business, but the most personality and firm belief in her business Recently, Spann has been working on her and feel she was going for, she wanted golds, frustrating thing would definitely be not for- is testimony enough to how she has gone own designs to launch later in the spring, and nudes, neutrals (browns) and silvers for this getting to take care of myself.” so far. Concentrating in entrepreneurship she described her creative process. particular campaign,” Au said. “She’s very Looking towards the future, Spann and marketing, Spann offered some helpful “[It] happens very randomly,” she said. smart in her promotion and management shared that “at the end of the day, the goal and interesting anecdotes about her design “I might be anywhere, and I’m like, ‘Oh my of the company.” is to graduate with a degree.” However, she process, day-to-day operation and balancing gosh. Yes, that’s, that’s amazing,’ and then I This attention to detail in her branding also wants Simone’s Pieces to be a brand school and social life. try and jot it down. One of the key parts of can be seen on the Simone’s Pieces Insta- that people know and recognize for “mod- When Simone’s Pieces launched in No- the process is to write everything down.” gram, which follows a nude brown aesthetic els [that] are very diverse, and [who] love vember of 2019, it had taken Spann three Another important aspect of the creative and works perfectly with the company’s fo- to be inclusive and representative of all years to build in her hometown of Wash- process behind Simone’s Pieces is the brand- cus on brown women of color. types of beauty.” ington D.C. As a student at NYU, the com- ing and visual design, which takes form “Simone’s Pieces emphasizes the im- Surpassing 2,000 followers on Instagram pany’s marketing, promotion and creative across the business’ social media presence portance of diversity: being a brand for all and connecting with notable influencers, aspects take place in the city. But its physical and item distribution. In terms of social me- shades and styles, and I aim to capture that Simone’s Pieces can only continue to go operations such as packaging, printing, in- dia marketing, Spann has learned from trial essence in my photos of her jewelry,” Brown upwards as long as Nya-Simone Spann is ventory and shipping are all carried out in and error, realizing which pages are best for said. “Each piece, like her target audience, spearheading the company. The CEO’s D.C. with a partner on-location. When it exposure based on her target audience: “a is unique and special. Starting a business in drive, determination to learn more and col- comes to the designing process, Spann is very natural hair page … empowerment pages … college is never easy, but she puts the work in laborate, as well as focus on education can KATHERINE HOLLIS | WSN precise about the designers that she choos- [and] pages that promote black businesses in to become knowledgeable about her craft.” only return success. Nya Simone-Spann is a freshman at Stern who has her own jewelry business. Her es to work with. general” are most successful. Indeed, juggling a business with remote brand is focused on creating pieces fit for “I like to go for designers who have a spe- In terms of her merch distribution, Spann headquarters and a business student’s work- Email Nya Etienne a diverse range of customers. cific definition of fashionable — someone said that she is planning two photoshoots for load is difficult with daily tasks ranging from at [email protected]. Make Way for Mokyo: I Tried Trader Joe’s Meatless Asian-Fusion Tapas to Die For Meat — And You Should Too

By ADDISON ALOIAN version included a delicious beef laid over a thick parme- By DANIELA ORTIZ Contributing Writer san cream sauce, sprinkled with green peppers, radishes, Staff Writer macadamia nuts and furikake, a Japanese seasoning. The question I’m constantly asked by friends and The dish was absolutely wonderful: the meat was ten- With talks of all the environmental damage caused family is, “what’s the best part of living in New York?” der, but the toppings were crunchy. The taste combined by consuming red meat, the appeal of veganism and Without hesitation, one answer comes to mind: the with the opposing textures was extremely satisfying. vegetarianism grows with each passing day. While I still food. is filled with the best restaurants Next came the duck fried rice, paired with Asian eat meat, I actively try to reduce my consumption, but around, ranging from every creation and cuisine you sausage, cucumber and a black bean sauce. The meal the idea of cutting out meat completely can seem like an could ever imagine. And you’ll never get sick of any one definitely didn’t taste like your typical fried rice; there overwhelming and nearly impossible task. With all the type because new, unique spots are always popping up was something stunning about the two different meat meatless substitutes available, it shouldn’t be. If even a on every block. tastes intertwining, but it wasn’t overpowering. The fast food chain like Burger King can release the impos- I had the pleasure of trying Mokyo for dinner this black bean sauce supplemented a salty but tasteful kick sible burger — a plant-based burger patty that “bleeds” week with my older brother. A cozy spot on Saint to each bite, and the cucumbers were a great refresher, like real meat — it’s no surprise that health food stores DANIELA ORTIZ | WSN Marks Place for Asian-inspired tapas and drinks, Mo- adding juiciness to the already delicious plate. are buying into the lifestyle as well. After Trader Joe’s This vegetarian spaghetti consists of artichoke sauce kyo just opened Feb. 5, and is the sister restaurant of The third plate ended up being our favorite: the corn released its new version of the impossible burger — and Trader Joe’s meatless sausage. Meatless options Thursday Kitchen, another East Village Asian eatery. dumplings — this dish is to die for. Savory and cheesy, dubbed “Protein Patties”— I was inspired to try out are becoming increasingly popular at stores such as Mokyo blends different elements together, featuring the dumplings were stuffed with fennel and a truffle sal- some of their other meatless meat options. After consid- Trader Joe’s, making it easy for anyone to substitute ingredients in their favorite dishes. mostly Korean dishes influenced by South American sa verde and topped with parmesan cheese. Yes, it’s as eration, I took up the meatless challenge for four days. and Spanish flavors. delicious as it sounds and the taste is out of this world. Night one consisted of spaghetti with artichoke sauce After being seated, I first noticed the low-key atmo- In fact, I would recommend Mokyo just for this course and Trader Joe’s Italian Sausage-less Sausage ($3.49 for let me down like the Italian version did. After sauteeing sphere of the space. The lighting was dim, the decora- alone (trust me). a four-pack). Following the instructions, I pan-fried the the chorizo with diced onions and garlic and mixing tions were quaint and the decor was brilliant, giving a Last but not least was the pork jowl, matched with soy-based links, cut them up and served them with the in diced boiled potatoes, I served the mixture on corn modern and industrial feel with exposed brick walls. Al- cauliflower and Kalamata olives, and doused with pasta. My first Meatless Monday wasn’t exactly off to a tortillas and garnished with salsa verde and cilantro. I though the dining area was small, it was separated from kabayaki sauce. The pork was phenomenal: perfect- banging start. The texture was way off and despite an have to say, I’m pretty sure my Mexican father would the bar, and gave off a cozy vibe that allowed me to relax ly cooked, crispy on the outside, but soft and chewy obvious effort with the Italian spices — which, I must approve. This chorizo actually tasted like chorizo. It was and let go of my troubles for the next hour. on the inside, melting in my mouth. The sauce was a admit, were prominent — it just tasted like soy. Putting so good I had to serve myself again knowing it had noth- Our waitress came by shortly after we were seated, wonderful culinary choice, adding a sweetness to the my love for Italian sausage and my knowledge on the ing to do with my cooking skills, considering years of and after explaining a little bit about Mokyo’s story, she whole meal that made the cauliflower exceptional. This product aside, even if I had no idea what I was eating, feedback from the victims of my cheffing. Rest assured: recommended that since the dishes are small, we should dish was so good that I ate every single olive and I don’t I don’t think I would enjoy the taste. This might be the this is an item worth adding to your basket. order two to three per person. Although I would pre- even like olives. first time that Trader Joe’s has ever let me down. When night four rolled around, I went for the mar- fer to have my own large-sized entree, I was still excited All in all, the food was unlike anything I’ve ever eat- For night two, I went with a pretty popular Trader quee dish: protein patty burgers ($4.49). It was definite- about the innovative dishes. Because I was with my en, the ambiance was calming, and we had fantastic ser- Joe’s recipe: the jackfruit pulled pork. The jackfruit ly the quickest dish of all four options to make. These brother, I figured we were going to feast, so we ordered vice with an attentive waitress. One of my favorite parts? ($1.99) comes canned in brine. When I purchased patties are made of pea protein, beets, and sunflower oil. four different plates: beef tartare, duck fried rice, corn The fact that I didn’t feel overly stuffed walking home. it at the store, the cashier ringing me up asked how Just throw the patties on a skillet, cook them for three dumplings and the pork jowl. Mokyo is perfect for any type of evening out — great for I make the jackfruit. I sincerely replied, “I’ll get back minutes on each side, and you’re ready to serve them to The dishes came out one at a time, arriving an appro- a date, family dinner or a girls’ night. to you on that.” your liking. In all honesty, I slightly overcooked mine priate amount of time after ordering. The first was the The idea behind using jackfruit as a meat substitute because I wasn’t aware that unlike meat, it’s normal for beef tartare, a food I’m a little obsessed with. Mokyo’s Email Addison Aloian at [email protected]. is that when it’s cooked and shredded, it does resem- the protein patties to remain pink on the side once they ble pulled pork. I put this claim to the test and after are fully cooked. draining, shredding, and sauteeing the contents of the If you don’t go into this dish expecting the taste of can, I dumped an absurd amount of barbecue sauce meat, you’ll enjoy it. The texture was extremely similar on it. Once the jackfruit was cooked, I assembled my to any other beef burger I’ve had. The flavor, however, barbecue pulled pork sandwich on ciabatta bread. It was definitely on more of the plant-based side, but it totally made up for the disappointment of night one. was tasty regardless. I wouldn’t hesitate to go back and The texture and taste were so delicious that it doesn’t purchase this item again, probably due to the simplicity seem right to compare it to pulled pork, which I usually of its preparation. As far as the meat substitutes went, it have a texture problem with because of the fat. Jack- would be third on my list. fruit is in a class of its own, and I will most definitely After trying four of the countless meat substitute be returning to Trader Joe’s to tell the cashier exactly options, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and de- how to prepare it. licious they could be. That being said, whether you’re My most ambitious venture into the meat substitute going for a lifestyle switch or just a new option for world occurred on night three. I decided to make tradi- Meatless Monday, the environmental benefits of con- tional Mexican papas con chorizo (pretty much just po- suming less meat are scientifically indisputable. It’s an tatoes with chorizo) after the Mexican chorizo ($2.29) issue bigger than our taste buds. JAKE CAPRIOTTI | WSN Mokyo, an Asian-fusion restaurant, is located along St. Marks Place. Though its storefront may seem plain, at Trader Joe’s caught my eye. Knowing that this was a the dishes Mokyo offers are anything but. soy-based sausage product as well, I hoped it wouldn’t Email Daniela Ortiz at [email protected]. 6 Washington Square News TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

[email protected] ARTS Edited by KAYLEE DEFREITAS and ETHAN ZACK Video Games: From ‘Pong’ to the Eighth Art By NICHOLAS WEID and ease of online communities. These Staff Writer experiences can truly be life-changing for some people, and while this can be true for A lot has changed in video games since any sort of hobby or fandom community, their humble beginnings in the 1970s. the massive amount of multiplayer games The matter of choosing what to play is is especially conducive to forming close- no longer as simple as deciding between knit and passionate environments. an action-packed game of “Pong” or an With that being said, there is no de- equally action-packed game of “Space nying the existence of toxic groups that Invaders.” The games, the market, the have started under the pretense of games. industry: every facet has been expanding “Gamergate,” the problematic outcry rapidly. Sprawling franchises like “Super from members of the gaming community Mario” and “Sonic the Hedgehog” have protesting against women in the industry, become household names, with more is a much more concerning stain on the and more franchises beginning to join community as a whole. Criticism of the them. The industry is undoubtedly still industry would be much more produc- young, but its expansion has been rapid tive if it were focused on rectifying the in its journey to the $120 billion power- presence of hate groups within the com- house it is today. munity instead of being funneled into the Despite this change, there’s been a con- phantom threat of violent games. tinuous and traceable thread: community. Helping to counteract this is the fact From the well-represented arcades of the that video games are, often unconscious- ISIAH ROSA | WSN 70s to the underground grassroots tourna- ly, educating their players. Even early text Computer stations designed for playing video games are characterized by brightly lit keyboards and high-backed chairs. The video game industry has been rapidly rising, forming a vibrant community of players, programmers and audiences. ment scene of “Super Smash Bros Melee” adventure games such as the aptly named in the 2000s and now the Super Bowl-sur- “Adventure” or the less-literally named passing viewership of the “League of Leg- “Zork” undoubtedly could be useful for they’re pushing the limits of what a game using interactivity as more than a tool Current said. “It’s not necessarily they ends” World Championship, video games teaching vocabulary, reading and critical can and arguably should do. The negative for entertainment and are beginning to want to profit off it — they’re showing have been forming communities ever since thinking. Newer games and the increasing reviews in particular shed light on the explore the possibilities that the medium their love and dedication for something their inception and continue to do so. possibilities inherent in their development quickly-aging perception of video games’ can facilitate. and want to make it because of that.” Isiah Rosa, a Game Design senior and are leading to experiences that can teach in purpose from not only pessimistic critics “I encourage you to explore the weirder There are countless individuals like the vice president of NYU’s Poly Gaming Net- the more nuanced way that other art can. but consumers alike. side of games,” Rosa said. “In doing that, “Sonic Mania” developers: passionate fans work Club, a Tandon-based club where Further expanding the capacity for Game Design first-year Leo Current you may be able to broaden your under- creating games they find important, and members play a variety of games, begin- video games to teach is the recent genre proposed a reason for this dichotomy. standing of what a game can be.” these are the games that are going to car- ners and veterans alike, mentioned his of empathy-focused games. “Depres- “Art is something that has current Video games in practice have moved ry the industry into the future. While the own experiences with game communities. sion Quest,” “That Dragon, Cancer,” events, but many players don’t seem to be past the simplistic origins which still seem games once created the community, the “Some of my closest friends, I found “Dys4ia,” “Freshman Year” — games ready for that in their games, despite the to strangle their reception and identity. community itself is now a key player in through games,” Rosa said. “I love hosting about depression, grief, gender dysphoria, fact that they want them to be considered Nowadays, there is a market saturated the creation of games. When the power is tournaments and seeing people come out sexual assault and countless other sensitive art,” Current said. “If they can accept both with games calling back on nostal- in the hands of the player, games become and meet one another, and then chatting and often deeply personal subjects are games as art, then the rest of the world can gia and games which are trying to fun- a powerful medium for their community even after those tournaments.” now being made. While these games obvi- follow along with them.” damentally revolutionize the genre. For to form conversations about important The events that Rosa runs are a strong ously don’t have the audience of the more It seems like common sense. These are every triple-A cash grab, there seems to be social and personal issues. reminder of the physical spaces these marketable “Fortnite” or “Call of Duty” games; they’re meant to be fun. But per- a game pushing the envelope of technolo- games used to be bound to, a tradition and often have negative user reviews haps common sense should be thrown gy and gameplay. Email Nicholas Weid that is still relevant despite the abundance (“Freshman Year” on Steam, for example), out the window here. These games are “That’s where fan games come in,” at [email protected].

‘The Slow Rush’ Is ’s Most Introspective Album to Date

By ANA CUBAS and ending with “One More Hour,” entire voyage. It alarmingly reminds lis- who’s worked with the likes of Kanye Parker’s joyous disco spirit. Contributing Writer time is undeniably the theme of Kevin teners, “We got a whole year / Fifty-two West and Travis Scott. In “Lost in Yes- “” is 57 minutes of Parker’s latest work. Both in a buoy- weeks / Seven days each” as if saying, terday” and “Breathe Deeper,” Parker controlled chaos: of intricate, fervent, Tame Impala’s “The Slow Rush” ant and resistive way, is “Wake up! We only have so much time incorporates 90s R&B rhythm and production-heavy sounds creating a was a full-bodied, mind-bending, psy- fiercely seeking answers both in the past in this world!” bass, which award the tracks a certain tie-dye dream wrapped in nostalgia chedelic journey that I never wanted to and the future. That said, the song does not scare lis- fluidity that grants the album a partic- and uncertainty. It makes you feel like end. Beginning with “One More Year” “One More Year” sets the vibe for the teners with its dismaying observation. ular conceptual cohesion. a space alien or a hippie — probably a Instead, it dropped me into a black “” is pure nostalgia mix of the two. This album is much hole of morphed, dissected voices and on Parker’s part, focusing on his desire more diverse in influences than “Cur- ever-so-slowly introduced me to the un- to relive the past in fear of what the rents” or any of Parker’s past albums. wavering drums that endure through- future might bring. He opens “Lost in Even though Parker remains true to out the album. These drums are so con- Yesterday” with “When we were livin’ in prog-rock he’s known for, the synth- sistent in each track that it felt like each squalor, wasn’t it Heaven?” and repeat- heavy sections can be mistaken for strike pulsated from my ears straight to ing in the pre-chorus, “if they call you, techno. And, at times, Parker’s acous- my brain all the way to the tips of my embrace them / If they hold you, erase tic guitar in “Tomorrow’s Dust” plays toes. It’s a song meant to put Parker’s them,” singing about his memories. like an homage to folk rock. While vocals and lyrics on a pedestal, and it By the time “Lost in Yesterday” ends, “Currents” also speaks of self-trans- succeeds. It sets the scene for the rest of Parker’s grown to accept his nostalgia formation, Parker proves his growth the album, laying the groundwork be- with self-assurance. “” not only as an artist, but in himself hind Parker’s fears of the future and the does not fear time, it embraces it, pro- with “The Slow Rush.” The duality anxiety of time. Perhaps Parker’s lyrical viding an optimistic break from uncer- shown between his dreading of time abilities aren’t the most poetic, but they tainty. This is much needed, consider- and his appreciation for memories get the point across. ing the entire album bred a ponderous allows the experience of growth to be Once the trademark Tame Impala state of mind that made me reflect on seen as a process, with each setback synths are out in full force, they’re there how I’ve spent every breath of my life. and realization proven in lyrics and to stay. “Posthumous Forgiveness” de- Following “It Might Be Time,” melody. Tame Impala did not waste livered cosmic synths that made me feel “Glimmer,” a disco-EDM compound, any time in those five years of pro- like I was floating down a time-travel- acts as the vessel for mental and emo- duction, and the outcome was more ing, groove-filled river of Parker’s airy tional catharsis before the album comes introspective and intoxicating than I vocals with twists and turns of drum to an end. It is lighthearted, full of bass could have imagined. ALEX TRAN | WSN Time is a prevailing theme in “The Slow Rush,” Tame Impala’s newest album. Though licks and song fragments of sirens. and begins with “Crank the bass up.” many songs feature signature sounds from Kevin Parker, others showcase his diverse Parker also makes it a point to ex- Despite the cheesiness of the phrase, I Email Ana Cubas skills as a hip hop producer. hibit his talents as a hip-hop producer couldn’t help but listen and dance to at [email protected]. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Washington Square News | Arts 7

‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’: A Masterful Exploration of Love

By KAYLEE DEFREITAS and not as just a still life but as a living Arts Editor breathing entity. This movie is not just about love Content warning: this article may contain between women; it also delves into spoilers. the intense bond that women share. This bond is highlighted through a A group of women hum different third character, a maid named Sophie notes around a fire. As they get closer, (Luàna Bajrami), whom both women they begin to hum in harmony, chant- help throughout the film. The power ing “fugere non possum,” Latin for of the film is in this shared connection “we cannot escape.” In the darkness, that all the women have as they all face a female face is illuminated as she gaz- different circumstances that they wish es at a blonde woman across the fire. they could escape from. Subtle desire fills both of them. As the Céline Sciamma’s screenplay is so music reaches a crescendo, the blonde intricate and lush in its phrasing that steps away to reveal the bottom of her one would think it came from a clas- dress is on fire. The two continue their sic 18th-century romance novel. The staring match as the blonde stands poetry of the lines is something that completely still, an exquisite image, a creeps up on the audience and does living painting. not always make itself known. One “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” follows such series of lines appear in a conver- Marianne (Noémie Merlant) as she is sation the three women share over a commissioned to paint a portrait of book they are reading aloud about Or- Héloïse (Adèle Haenel) to be sent to pheus and Eurydice. her future arranged husband. Héloïse “He doesn’t make the lover’s choice, refuses to sit for the painting, so Mar- but the poet’s,” is what Marienne says ianne must work secretly, creating a when talking of why she thinks Or- face from only glances on daily walks. pheus turns and thus sends his lover, From this, the two fall into an impas- Eurydice, back to the Underworld. KAYLEE DEFREITAS | WSN “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” is now playing in cinemas. The film explores the blossoming relationship between two women in the 18th sioned, affecting romance that allows It is to live with the memory of how century. them to find their inner freedom while Eurydice was instead of who she is also highlighting the limitations of the now. What initially started as an ex- world they live in. citing sharing of theories turns into ter the film has faded to black. Adèle staging of the scenes is so intentional ate prose that makes up the script. The “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” is one of a poignant exchange that reveals the Haenel is so restrained in her emotions, in the visual they are trying to achieve. film has lingered on my mind since I the most magnificent love stories to be women’s personal understandings of but in every scene, one can feel the de- The staging isn’t done with just visuals saw it on limited release in December, put to film in recent memory. The film love and the impending separation sire that lies behind the wall she has put in mind either; many scenes are placed and on second viewing, I only found looks at the way love can be defined in from each other. up. Noémie Merlant is dominant in the so that one can tell what is happening even more to be in love with in it. It how one is seen in the eyes of another, All performances in this film are independence she portrays, but also emotionally between characters or to is a romance for the ages that is deeply and more specifically, without the male nuanced, and it is hard to single out the impending awareness of her cir- draw the audience in. While the acting, moving in its portrayal of love through gaze present. When Héloïse insults the just one of them as the star. The fire cumstance as a woman. Both women direction and screenplay are all stun- the eyes of an artist. first portrait, she says, “Is this how you and intense life each woman brings to are brilliant, and it is a spiritual experi- ning in their own right, it is the cine- see me?” and it is the inquiry that seems their role makes it feel like these char- ence to watch the two fall fast into love. matography that helps round out this “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” opened to bother Marianne the most. The film acters are existing individuals. They The cinematography of the film film and makes it a true masterpiece. February 14th, 2020. It is being shown in argues that having the person you de- bring such energy to them that one works in tandem with the narrative. “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” exudes French with English Subtitles. sire find your perception of them false never feels that these people were just Each shot in the movie could be a beauty in every second of the film. It is the worst insult. It argues that real dropped into the film and instead had painting within itself as the landscapes draws the audience in with the visuals Email Kaylee Defreitas love means being fully seen by another an extensive life before, during and af- are breathtakingly gorgeous, and the but holds onto them with the passion- at [email protected].

Support Your OG Bookstores

By DESTINE MANSON all the aspiring writers, bookstores Staff Writer give you a place to chat with other book enthusiasts about what they’re From James Baldwin to E. E. Cum- reading now and what you should mings and many more, there was be reading next. a time when literary icons roamed All of the books inside Mercer Bleecker and Broadway. Many of are reasonably priced and showcase them sat in the East Village and pon- decades of literature. The different dered the world before becoming sections from biographies to science textbook topics. The atmosphere of a clump together in an endless array classic neighborhood bookstore is like of information. no other, but the one that holds a spe- The cashier sets the tone of the cial place in my heart is Mercer Street store’s atmosphere as well. His de- Books & Records. meanor is always quiet and observant The neon pink “BOOKS” sign in yet appreciative of each purchase. As the window invited my inner child with other conversations that happen to enter. When I was younger, I loved between book lovers who come in and trips to Barnes & Noble. At the time out, his knowledge of the thousands the franchise was new to my area. The of books decorating the shelves is un- children’s section was equipped with matched. Person-to-person contact bean bags and brightly colored deco- in this city can seem intimidating for rations that told me that I must read some, but the comfort of the stacks another book. Mercer Books & Re- makes it easy. cords is the adult version of that expe- Mercer is where I developed a new rience. The endless stacks of new and love for Toni Morrison novels. Read- used books make you feel as if you are ing her work outside of a classroom buried alive in literature. It’s a place environment during quiet evenings in where I feel comfortable ignoring the my dorm ignited a fire in me to want vibrations on my phone while perus- to write fiction again. Even after leav- ing through the sections. ing the store, finding the book des- What stands out to readers in a tined for your shelf brings you a sense neighborhood bookstore is the op- of calmness in your own space. Thank portunity to discover a new read you, Mercer Books, for constantly re- without algorithms or programming. minding me why I came to this city Neighborhood bookstores like Mer- and giving me something to cherish cer Street Books & Records offer a while I’m here. rare escape to solitude without endur- JAKE CAPRIOTTI | WSN Now in their 30th year, Mercer St. Books & Records continues to carry new and used books, as well as LPs. Local bookstores like this ing hours of travel to connect with Email Destine Manson one are small businesses that are often overlooked in the city. yourself by leaving the city limits. To at [email protected]. 8 Washington Square News TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

[email protected] OPINION Edited by JUN SUNG

GOVERNMENT Are Caucuses Hurting Our Democracy?

is narrowed down. However, after the an open dialogue among locals; how- ers (I-Vt) wanted a recount against of minutes to complete voting, de- miscalculation and mass confusion ever, it fails to do so because of its former Secretary of State Hillary pending on how long the line is. While that occured just two weeks ago in the outdated methods. Clinton’s narrow victory, but there there is still room for error, primaries 2020 Iowa caucuses, the importance Since caucuses require citizens to was no paper trail with the results. In provide a much more organized and of caucuses in the voting process spend hours talking in local meet- the most recent Iowa caucuses, Dem- efficient structure than caucuses. must be questioned. ing places, the process also removes ocrats tried to create a voting record Though the caucuses may create a Caucuses are run differently than them from designated family time using an app to keep track of the win- feeling of unity within the major po- primaries. In a primary, one can sim- and draws them away from their jobs. ner. However, this app led to chaos as litical parties, the fact that so many ply fill out a ballot indicating their Longer hours mean wealthier vot- the technology crashed and precinct citizens are pushed away from partic- By SAM O’DONNELL candidate of choice. However, when ers are at an advantage, as they can leaders couldn’t input the data. ipation hurts the spirit of democracy. Contributing Writer one casts their vote in a caucus, they afford to leave work early and pay As time has proven that caucuses The primary system, which has higher must announce who they support for childcare. The actual process of are outdated ways of collecting votes, voter turnouts and is more inclusive Dating back to the 1800s, caucuses in front of friends and neighbors, counting voters takes a long time as primaries have become a much more of all Americans, is the better alterna- have been essential to the U.S. elec- making it awkward if one chooses to well, which can result in lower voter viable option. Primaries provide a tive to the outdated caucus. toral system. The presidential race support a candidate who is not pop- turnout numbers. more traditional idea of voting where begins with caucuses in Iowa where ular in the community. The main This outdatedness was seen in the one gets to keep their vote private. In Email Sam O’Donnell the nominee for the two major parties purpose of the caucuses is to create 2016 election when Sen. Bernie Sand- addition, primaries only take a matter at [email protected].

CITY The Uncomfortable Issue of Bathroom Accessibility

private bathroom is completely inac- promised 100 public toilets to be in- The absence of basic sanitation fa- who filed a class-action suit against cessible. Restroom accessibility has stalled following successful experi- cilities results in an unhealthy envi- NYC explained that they are “forced had a long and tortured history in mentation, eventually abandoned the ronment contaminated with human to endure continual embarrassment, New York City. In the 1930s, NYC concept. His successor, Mayor Rudy waste and contributes to the spread humiliation, physical injury and haz- dramatically expanded its public Giuliani, attempted to build 30 pub- of many diseases. Outbreaks of in- ardous conditions” as a result of the restroom infrastructure, and every- lic toilets through a comprehensive fectious disease associated with poor state’s failure to provide accessible thing has been done since to curb this “street furniture” plan, which would accessibility to restrooms are risks to public bathrooms. So far, de Blasio’s public good. Pay-toilets were out- have also included bus stop shelters public health everywhere. 12 U.S. strategy for alleviating the homeless lawed in 1975 on the belief that they and newsstands. Giuliani shelved states have experienced outbreaks of population, thus lessening the de- By EMILY DAI were discriminatory against women. this idea in 1998. Mayor Michael hepatitis A, which is spread through mand for public restrooms, is simply Deputy Opinion Editor The problem quickly became so ram- Bloomberg, who had commented person-to-person contact and exac- to ship them out of the city. pant that in 1990, a group of home- that public restroom accessibility erbated by poor sanitary conditions, Access to a safe and sanitary re- Imagine this: you’re stranded in less people sued NYC for access to “does have a need, and most other cit- and has resulted in 2,800 hospitaliza- stroom is a human right; it is fun- Midtown and you’re starting to feel public restrooms. ies, or many other cities, have solved tions and 60 deaths. According to the damental to human dignity. The the chai latte you chugged an hour Clearly, we don’t want people to this problem,” could only plan to U.S. Center for Disease Control and inherently uncomfortable nature of earlier. Or maybe you and your fam- relieve themselves on the streets — install 20 restrooms in the city after Prevention, a majority of these cases restroom accessibility has kept the ily are trying to hit up all the NYC in 2015, the NYPD issued 17,744 his 12-year tenure. Bloomberg’s suc- occurred among people experiencing issue as an afterthought in the minds hotspots, and suddenly your little summonses for public urination. cessor, current Mayor Bill de Blasio, homelessness who felt the brunt force of politicians and privileged New sister needs to go to the bathroom. Yet, NYC has only 1,103 public re- has done nothing and has attempted of NYC’s public bathroom scarcity. Yorkers alike, while those without Or maybe you’re somewhere uptown strooms for its 8.5 million residents, nothing to stop this sanitation crisis. Those not fortunate enough to access to proper sanitary facilities are and the frat house has already kicked and nearly 63 million tourists a year. In fact, 15 automated public toilets wield an NYU ID and enter one of forced to face this daily hurdle. It is everybody out. Regardless of the situ- Only two of these facilities are open were purchased with taxpayer dollars, the ~90 NYU buildings on the Man- in the interest of basic public health ation, you’re somewhere where your 24/7, making going to the bathroom and have simply been collecting dust hattan campus or able to scrounge and human decency for NYC to build NYU ID can’t be your saving grace. late at night a near impossibility. in a warehouse somewhere in Queens up enough loose change to buy a proper bathroom infrastructure (and Where can you go to the bathroom? This lack of public restrooms is as since 2006. De Blasio continues to ig- small coffee to use the bathroom at in one case, fish it out of storage), You probably can’t. Unless you representative of NYC as the Empire nore their existence. a local cafe have it even worse. Every and incentivize private businesses to purchase something — an over- State Building, and our recent mayors This isn’t just an issue of conve- issue caused by a lack of public re- open up their restrooms for everyone. whelming amount of available re- have tried — and failed — to tackle nience. The severe lack of available strooms disproportionately affects strooms are for customers only — a this issue. Mayor David Dinkins, who toilets poses serious health risks. the homeless. The homeless people Email Emily Dai at [email protected].

CULTURE NYFW Highlights an Unhealthy Body Image

jor fashion week, others being Milan, historically proven to promote un- els with progressively petite frames. societal rethinking of body image. Af- London and Paris. The gravity of this healthy body image. Though it should be noted that the ter receiving backlash concerning com- week-long event occupies the city and I recently had the opportunity to at- societal pressures that influence young plaints that include the well-being and highlights the sense of style which al- tend a New York Fashion Week event. members of society begin at ages where lack of diversity of its models, the 2019 ready seems to embody the Big Apple. Beautiful women modeled designer individuals are not likely to be flipping Victoria’s Secret fashion show was can- New York City has an image shaped clothing on a staged set. A broad array their way through fashion catalogs, de- celled as part of a decision to “evolve by shows like “Sex in the City” or of ethnicities and ages was present, but signers — as the driving force behind the marketing of [the company].” “Gossip Girl” where young, beautiful each and every woman was indisput- contemporary fashion imagery — must While we slowly progress toward people move through the city with an ably thin. This isn’t to say that every be held accountable for their role in the a more inclusive and healthy image, By LUCIA KASSELA effortless elegance. This expectation model present was following an un- perpetuation of unhealthy body image. this fashion week serves as yet another Staff Writer that men and women are meant to be healthy diet or workout regimen, but As another year in fashion is marked reminder to subscribe less to the un- as skinny, fashionable and beautiful as NYFW’s attempt to create diversity by the first semiannual NYFW of healthy image promoted by NYFW, New York Fashion Week is a semian- their on-screen counter parts creates only highlighted the single characteris- 2020, we are reminded of the negative and more towards one that ensures nual string of shows which take place an unrealistic image for young stu- tic that every model shared. effects of fashion media. Unfortunate- an industry that not only promotes a in September and February used to dents living in the city. Now under- We must look not to the models ly, the industry shows little movement healthy image, but healthy models. showcase international fashion collec- score this impractical, not to mention — who are compelled by expectation towards a progressive, healthier body tions. New York serves as one of four unhealthy, ideal with a week centered to remain gaunt — but the designers image. However, there continue to be Email Lucia Kassela locations in the world to hold a ma- around a fashion industry which has themselves, who create and cast mod- small victories in the movement for a at [email protected]. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Washington Square News | Opinion 9

POLITICS OK Bloomberg

that Bloomberg “sucks lol”; comments on @fourtwenty’s ad suggest a conspiracy the- ory; responses to @neatdad’s post simply read “unfollow.” The complaints aren’t unwarranted. It’s not only that Bloomberg is openly pander- ing to young voters, it’s that he’s ostensibly attempting to whitewash his background. One only needs to think of Bloomberg’s By ABBY HOFSTETTER track record: the 64 women who have sued STAFF EDITORIAL Managing Editor him for sexual harassment; the blatant- ly racist audio clip that circulated social This past Thursday, at least 23 popular media this past week, where he explained Instagram accounts — including @fuck- the so-called logic behind the blatantly jerry, @kalesalad and @fuckadvertisements discriminatory stop-and-frisk policy; his — posted campaign advertisements for use of prison labor for his campaign; the Confronting the presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg, time he blamed the 2008 recession on the all of which are disguised as memes. While elimination of redlining; the fact that he each advertisement is different, they all has no donors but himself; the healthcare Contradiction of take the form of a fabricated direct mes- plan that calls death panels to memory. sage from the candidate. Each one is deep- A meme doesn’t let you forget a list of ly ironic and hyper self-aware, and each misgivings this long — no matter who’s brands Bloomberg as distinctly out-of- pandering to you. NYU Abu Dhabi touch — not an out-of-touch Washington Campaign memes are made with the ex- elite, but out-of-touch like the memes your plicit goal of garnering the youth vote, and grandfather sends you. He tries to come in that, Bloomberg failed. But he achieved The year 2020 marks the 10th anniversary How can NYU uphold these rules when its across as well-intentioned — and for a sec- something else — something, perhaps, en- of NYU Abu Dhabi’s campus. To celebrate, own professors are barred from entering the ond, it works. But only for a second. tirely unintended. the university is planning various events that country and censored by the government? Young voters are spoken about so fre- Not everybody hated Bloomberg’s cam- give members of the community the oppor- This question is important in understand- quently that it seems almost pointless to paign memes. Daniel Arsham, a white, tunity to share stories about their experiences. ing why NYU is engaging in these shady reiterate why they matter so much. But 39-year-old influencer, responded to But it is doubtful that these events will men- practices. In a way, they are explained by the Generation Z is officially the U.S.’ largest @fuckjerry’s post with a single clapping tion the darker aspects of the campus. Board of Trustees’ connections and financial demographic — and Millennials are the emoji. Carole Radziwill, a white, 56-year- In its short history, NYUAD has been involvement with NYUAD. second-largest, beating out the boomers old Real Housewife of New York City, mired in controversy. During the construc- WSN’s Editorial Board has written in the by a population margin of over 13 million. responded to the same post with a hands- tion of its campus, migrant workers were past on the problematic aspects of the Board, Gen Z is also widely overrepresented on the up emoji. Adam Padilla, a white advertis- victims of wage theft, excessive work hours specifically on Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak internet — if you use social media as your ing executive in his early 40s, responded and other forms of labor abuse — all while — a member of the Board of Trustees and main point of reference for what the U.S. to @tank.sinatra’s sponsored post with a being housed in “isolated, squalid encamp- CEO of the UAE’s sovereign wealth fund. thinks, you’ll largely get the opinion of its simple “Perfect.” ments.” When the workers decided to strike Al Mubarak was a key figure in the creation younger demographic. The pattern continues. Melissa Joan against these conditions, they were brutally of NYUAD and was directly complicit in Young voters also have historically low Hart, Adrian Solgaard, Selby Drummond suppressed by police. the labor rights issues in the construction of turnout rates. College students frequent- and Alison Brod enthusiastically respond- There have also been cases of restrictions the campus. Considering these elements, it is ly change their place of residence, which ed to @fuckjerry’s, @sonny5ideup’s, @gay- on academic freedom. During the 2017-18 clear that Al Mubarak’s financial and govern- leaves them the option to either mail in an bestfriend’s and @mrsdowjones’ sponsored academic school year, Professor Lauren Min- mental position contradicts the university’s absentee ballot or re-register in their new posts, respectively. Many more positive sky’s books for her class were censored by the supposed goal of supporting academic free- district, which is a tedious and extensive comments from white, upper-class mem- United Arab Emirates government. In 2015, dom of speech on the campus. process in most states. There are also fre- bers of Generation X were made, and have Professor Andrew Ross, an outspoken critic Despite these serious issues in both NYU- quently roadblocks in the registration pro- since been deleted; in addition, since so of labor conditions in the UAE, was barred AD and on the Board of Trustees, the only cess: one young voter told New York Mag- many of the accounts that originally posted from entering the country. In 2017, Profes- department to fully cut ties with NYUAD azine that she hasn’t voted in years because advertisements are now private, it’s hard to sors Mohamad Bazzi and Arang Keshavarzian is the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Insti- she doesn’t own a printer or stamps, and gather the exact number of supportive re- were also denied entry into the country be- tute. The Gallatin School of Individualized her heavy workload frequently causes her actions. But almost every positive comment cause of their religion and the nature of their Study’s faculty has also taken action, as its to miss the deadline to mail in her absen- came from the same demographic. research. In the first two cases, NYU pushed faculty voted to encourage colleagues not to tee ballot. Many states have been pushing A 2019 study by the Pew Research back, claiming academic freedom was still un- teach or participate in Abu Dhabi classes or for ease of access to voter registration and Center reported that more than half of restricted on campus. events. This begs another question — why ha- voting in general, but until legislation is Generation X voted in the United States’ NYU’s partnership with the UAE is deep- ven’t more schools and departments severed passed, young voters remain largely ambiv- last midterm election — higher than the ly contradictory, considering the university’s ties with NYUAD? alent — unless someone incentivizes them. nationwide average. Another study con- own established guidelines on academic free- To put it bluntly, it is unsurprising that Politicians often mistakenly see memes cluded that while voter turnout among dom. NYU’s faculty handbook says that “ac- NYU holds these problematic ties with NYU- as a cheap means of connecting to younger racial and ethnic minorities spiked during ademic freedom is essential to the free search AD. Because of this, the onus must be on the voters. But the sad reality of campaign me- the 2018 midterm elections, U.S. voters are for truth and its free expression. Freedom in individual schools and departments within mes is that if they’re not done exactly right still overwhelmingly white. A recent study research is fundamental to the advancement the university to address these issues and to — and by the right politicians — they’re by EconoFact reported that “voter turn- of truth. Freedom in teaching is fundamental promote the highest form of academic stan- bound to fail, and fail spectacularly. out in the United States is vastly unequal: for the protection of the rights of the teacher dard and freedom. Cutting ties with NYUAD Mike Bloomberg failed spectacularly. richer people are more likely to vote than in teaching and of the student in learning.” should come hand in hand with this. The backlash to Bloomberg’s campaign poorer people.” memes was (and is) so strong that several Bloomberg’s memes may have failed to of the accounts that originally posted ad- raise his favorability ratings among young vertisements have since become private. voters, and may have even turned them far- @thefatjewish, an Instagram account sim- ther away from him than they already were. ilar to the ones that posted Bloomberg’s But they did incentivize those who were Email the Editorial Board at [email protected]. sponsored content, commented on already incentivized: white, upper-class @tank.sinatra’s post, saying that the can- members of Generation X. The youth CHAIR Jun Sung didate had approached him, asking to are still left unaccounted for, and Mike CO-CHAIR Emily Dai, Gabby Lozano, Asha Ramachandran, Helen Wajda post an advertisement, but he had de- Bloomberg wasted approximately $350 CHAIR EX OFFICIO clined because “Bloomberg is a colossal million on an ad campaign to get the atten- Cole Stallone, Abby Hofstetter, sh-tbag.” Bloomberg’s ad on @golfersdo- tion of those who were already listening. Ronni Husmann, Paul Kim, Anna-Dmitry Muratova ingthings’ account was met with a sea of “TRUMP 2020” comments; responses to Email Abby Hofstetter @doyouevenlift’s overwhelmingly agree at [email protected].

SEND MAIL TO: 75 THIRD AVE. #SB07, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10003 OR EMAIL: [email protected] Submitting WSN welcomes letters to the editor, opinion pieces and articles relevant to the NYU community, or in response to articles. Letters should be less than 450 words. All submissions must be typed or emailed and must include the author’s name, address and phone number. Members of the NYU community must to include a year and school or job title. WSN does not print unsigned letters or editorials. WSN reserves the right to reject any submission and edit accepted submissions in any and all ways. With the exception of the staff editorial, opinions expressed on the editorial pages are not necessarily those of WSN, and our publication of opinions is not an endorsement of them. 10 Washington Square News TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020

[email protected] SPORTS Edited by ARVIND SRIRAM Wrestling Team Claims UAA Championship

Nazareth College 3-0, winning 25-20, 25-18 the first half. Team leaders for the Violets The Violets return to action on Mar. 8 for Men’s Track and Field and 25-19. The team won their first set, in a were CAS junior Bobby Hawkinson with the NCAA Men’s Regional Championship On Saturday, Feb. 15, the men’s track close battle. The Violets led 15-13, creating 22 points and nine rebounds and SPS junior hosted by Cornell University, after select Vi- and field team competed at the Valentine distance with a 3-0 run. Their lead grew to six Jaden Narwal with three assists. olets finished competing in the Jr. Olympics Invitational, hosted by Boston University. points, and the Violets never looked back. In On Sunday, Feb. 16, the Violets fell to the Championship from Feb. 14 to Feb. 17. For the track events, standouts were CAS the second set, the Violets trailed early (4-3). University of Rochester 72-64. In the first junior Dillan Spector, who ran a person- Down one, NYU scored six straight points half, NYU struggled on offense, shooting Men’s Swimming and Diving al-best (8:44.81) in the 3,000-meter, finishing and maintained their lead the rest of the way. only 39.3% from the field and 27.3% from The men’s swim and dive team competed in 47th place and the 4x400-meter medley In the final set, the Violets led the entire way the three-point line, which lead to a 39-28 in the UAA Championship from Wednes- team of SPS senior Julian Montilus, CAS and finished the sweep. Team leaders includ- deficit. In the second half, led by Stern soph- day, Feb. 12 to Saturday, Feb. 15. NYU placed first-years Daniel Akande and David Ob- ed Li with nine kills and Bikdeli with 27 as- omore Cade Hoppe’s 14 points, the Violets in third place, behind Emory University and waya and Stern sophomore Brett Asay, who sists and five digs. battled back and cut the deficit all the way the University of Chicago. finished in 27th place with a time of 3:22.65. CHARLIE DODGE | WSN The Violets play Bard College on Feb. 19. to three points. Team leaders for NYU were For the swim team, SPS first-years Thom- For the field events, SPS sophomore Landon Hoppe with 18 points, Hoppe and CAS as Pritchard and Salvador Perez, CAS sopho- Edwards placed 23rd in the high jump and By ARVIND SRIRAM Women’s Basketball sophomore Nick Macarchuk with six re- more Graham Chatoor, Tandon junior Josh Gallatin sophomore Owen Mountford fin- Sports Editor With a 2-0 record this week, the Violets are bounds each and Macarchuk and Hawkin- Rine, Stern junior Elan Oumarov, Gallatin ished in 33rd place in the shot put. now tied for the top seed in the UAA confer- son with three assists each. senior Giorgio DelGrosso and CAS first- On Saturday, Feb. 15, a subset of the Men’s Wrestling ence. On Friday, Feb. 14, the Violets defeated The Violets face the University of Chi- year Erik Truong all earned NCAA cuts. men’s track and field team competed in the On Saturday, Feb. 15, the men’s wrestling Emory University 54-50. The game was close cago on Feb. 21. The men’s diving team swept the one-meter Monmouth Winter Collegiate Invitation- team defeated Case Western Reserve Univer- going into the fourth quarter, with Emory board, earning NCAA cuts, as Steinhardt al, hosted by Monmouth University. Stern sity and the University of Chicago, winning holding a three point lead. NYU clawed their Women’s Fencing senior Nick Lemieux, Rory Meyers sopho- sophomore Sunmakin Orafidaya finished in their first UAA Championship since 2017. way back to a 45-45 tie with 2:53 left in the On Wednesday Feb. 12, the Violets went more Cole Vertin, and CAS first-year Hunter 18th place in the 200-meter and 31st place Against Case Western, the Violets slaugh- game, until CAS senior Annie Barrett hit a 2-1 in the George Kolombatovich Memo- Whitbeck finished in first, second and third in the 60-meter. tered the Spartans 43-6, only losing two key jumper, giving the Violets a two-point rial Meet at Columbia University, losing to place, respectively. The Violets’ next meet is the Last Chance bouts. The match was closer against the Uni- lead. The Violets led the rest of the way and Columbia (18-9), defeating Vassar College The Violets return to action on Feb. 22 for Meet on Feb. 21. versity of Chicago (28-11), but with the Vi- won their third straight game. Team leaders (14-13) and blowing out Sacred Heart Uni- the NYU Last Chance Meet. olets winning the first three bouts, Maroons for NYU were Steinhardt first-year Jenny versity (19-8). For NYU, Stern first-year Women’s Track and Field never posed as a threat. Stern senior Sean Walker with 20 points, Steinhardt junior Ja- Chiara Codazzi and CAS sophomore Sar- Women’s Swimming and On Friday, Feb. 14, the women’s track and Lyons was named UAA’s Most Outstanding nean Cuffee with eight rebounds and CAS ah Prilutsky shined in foil with 7-2 records Diving field team competed at the Valentine Invita- Wrestler and the Violets’ coaching staff were senior Annie Barrett with four assists. each, CAS junior Liz Sweetra led the Violets The women’s swim and dive team com- tional, hosted by Boston University. For the named UAA Coaching Staff of the Year. On Sunday, Feb. 16, the women’s bas- with a 6-3 record in sabre and Stern first- peted in the UAA Championship from track events, standouts were CAS and SPS The Violets return to action on Feb. 23 ketball team defeated the University of year Anna Lanzman stood out with five Wednesday, Feb. 12 to Saturday, Feb. 15. The senior Milly Ames, who finished in 40th for the Futures Tournament, hosted by Rochester 73-47. The Violets’ defense was victories in epee. Violets ultimately finished in second place, place in the 5,000-meter and the 4x400-me- Muhlenberg College. particularly strong, allowing only 19 sec- The Violets return to action on Feb. 29 behind Emory University. ter medley team of CAS first-year Isre’al ond-half points and limiting Rochester to for the NIWFA Women’s Championship In the 1,650-yard freestyle, CAS sopho- Conerly, Tandon graduate student Rebecca Men’s Volleyball shoot 28.1% from the field. Team leaders hosted by Drew University, after select Vio- mores Rachel Reistroffer, Ashley Brodnick MacLeod, Liberal Studies sophomore Gab- The men’s volleyball team continued its included Cuffee with 16 points, Stern se- lets finished competing in the Jr. Olympics and Allison Kapostasy, Rory Meyers senior by Lozano and CAS first-year Brianna King, winning streak with victories against The nior Lauren Gast and Rory Meyers junior Championship from Feb. 14 to Feb. 17. Jamie Robinson and Steinhardt first-year Til- which finished in 42th place. Sage Colleges and Nazareth College. On Katie Foos with eight rebounds and Barrett lie Lewis finished in the top 10. Other notable On Saturday, Feb. 15, a subset of the Wednesday, Feb. 12, the Violets swept The with eight assists. Men’s Fencing standouts were CAS junior Sydney Catron, women’s track and field team competed in Sage Colleges, winning 25-21, 25-13 and The Violets compete against the Universi- On Wednesday Feb. 12, the Violets went who finished first in the 200-yard backstroke, the Monmouth Winter Collegiate Invita- 25-16. The first set was back and forth, with ty of Chicago on Feb. 21. 3-0 in the George Kolombatovich Memo- CAS first-year Jessica Flynn, who finished tional, hosted by Monmouth University. each team trading leads until it was tied 19-19. rial Meet at Columbia University, defeating third in the 100-yard freestyle and Stern se- CAS first-year Nathalie Shoji and Stern se- NYU never looked back, going on a 3-0 run, Men’s Basketball Columbia (16-11) and slaughtering Vassar nior Honore Collins and Steinhardt first-year nior Alaris Dayzle finished eighth and ninth and ultimately winning the first set. After the The men’s basketball team went 0-2 this College (18-9) and Sacred Heart University Isabella Brosvik, who finished first and third, in the pole vault and CAS first-year Andrenae close set, the Violets slaughtered the Gators. week, with losses to Emory University and (26-1). For NYU, Stern senior Eric Zobel respectively, in the 200-yard butterfly. Finally, Jones placed 20th in the 60-meter. Leaders of the match included Stern senior the University of Rochester. On Friday, Feb. won seven bouts in foil, CAS senior Grant CAS first-year Victoria Saliba, Catron, Flynn The Violets’ next meet is the Last Chance Alex Li with 12 kills, CAS senior Matin 14, the Violets lost to Emory 99-81. NYU Williams, Stern first-years Jamie Ren and and Collins finished second in the 400-yard Meet on Feb. 21. Bikdeli with 35 assists and CAS sophomore struggled on defense, allowing Emory to Zachary Schindler all finished 5-1 in sabre freestyle relay. Race Agcaoili with six digs. shoot 52.9% from the field and 38.5% from and CAS sophomore Liam Carpenter tailed The Violets return to action on Feb. 22 for Email Arvind Sriram On Friday, Feb. 14, the Violets defeated the three-point line en route to 50 points in six victories in epee. the NYU Last Chance Meet. at [email protected]. NBA All-Star Weekend Is Fun

By BELA KIRPALANI Team USA’s win, but Ja Morant’s un- truth is, Gordon did clip Fall’s head — game’s format. Editor-at-Large der-the-leg pass for the Zion William- if you’re going to make life difficult for The clock was reset after each quar- son slam might have been the highlight yourself by jumping over a giant, then ter and the winning team received an Celebrity Game of the night. The future feels bright you better jump over the giant. Aside extra $100,000 for a charity it chose in The NBA made ESPN sports per- with these kids. from the tough loss, let’s give Gordon advance. The total score of the game sonality and meme-famous Stephen A. major props for his performance Satur- at the end of three quarters was added Smith a head coach for this year’s Celeb- Bam! Can’t Stop This Man day night — he always puts on a show up and instead of having a traditional rity All-Star Game and boy, he did not Miami Heat big man Bam Adebayo and he made this year one to remember. 12-minute game clock, the fourth quar- disappoint. Receiving the first technical has been on a roll this season, making a However, Derrick Jones Jr. deserved ter was played until one team scored 24 foul in the history of the Celebrity All- case for Most Improved Player with an this win. The announcers dubbed his more points than the other as a tribute Star Game, Stephen A. got to live out average of 15.8 points, 10.4 rebounds first dunk a reverse tornado through to the late Kobe Bryant. his coaching dreams on the sidelines. and 4.9 assists per game. the legs! Say that three times fast. In The result was an energetic game Next year, I want more Stephen A.; In the Taco Bell Skills Challenge on one dunk, he jumped over a guy, caught that felt more like a down-to-the-wire SOPHIA DI IORIO | WSN I want a camera feed dedicated solely to Saturday night, Adebayo once again the ball off the backboard, passed the playoff game than a soon-to-be-forgot- covering his every reaction and blow- shook expectation in a competition ball between his legs mid-air and wind- ten night during All-Star Weekend with the game for Team LeBron 157-155. up. Put Stephen A. on all my screens! many assume to be favorable for guards. milled it with authority. I’m sorry Aar- each of the players eager to win money Players and fans alike seemed to enjoy He didn’t miss a single pass, he cruised on, but the birthday boy pulled out all for their charity. the changes to this year’s competition Youngsters Shine Bright Like up and down the court and sank those the stops to win the Dunk Contest. But fear not, it still had all the fun and it was the closest All-Star Game a Diamond three-pointers when it mattered the Catch me watching this year’s high- elements of an All-Star Game; we got since the Eastern Conference topped Our young stars were on full display most. Moral of the story: I love Bam. lights on loop for the rest of time. to witness 34-year-old Chris Paul dunk, the Western Conference 141-139 in on Friday night, throwing down dunks, Kyle Lowry drew not one but two 2010. Good game, I say. Let’s do it launching shots from beyond half- Sorry, Aaron New Rules, More Fun charges in the fourth quarter of the All- again next year. court and nutmegging opponents. Aaron Gordon — and most of the For some, the NBA All-Star Game Star Game and having LeBron James Also, sidenote: New Orleans Pelicans internet — felt he was robbed for the usually loses its charm after a few min- and Kawhi Leonard on the same team The Sports Girl is a weekly column that rookie Nicolo Melli was selected to re- second time in the NBA Dunk Con- utes of play, with barely anyone playing was like watching the real-life version features a girl’s take on sports. Yes, a girl. place the injured Deandre Ayton in the test. Look, attempting to jump over defense, teams running up the score of the Monstars. Yes, on sports. Rising Stars Game — here’s the kicker: the 7-foot-5 Celtics center Tacko Fall is and virtually nothing to play for. This The end came down to a pair of Melli’s 29 years old. no small feat, after all, Fall is currently year, everything changed as the league nerve-wracking free throws and Chi- Email Bela Kirpalani Miles Bridges took home MVP after the tallest player in the NBA. But the announced some modifications to the cago native Anthony Davis aptly won at [email protected]. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2020 Washington Square News | Sports 11

CAS Fencer Grant Williams Aims to Compete in 2020 Olympics

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CHELSEA LI | WSN CAS senior Grant Williams is the co-captain of NYU’s fencing team. He hopes to qualify for the Tokyo Come to our Sunday 2020 Olympics.

By KEVIN RYU cardio, footwork and even psychological pitch meetings. Contributing Writer training — to raise his comfort level in high stakes competitions. Coming into his first year, current CAS “The hardest part of qualifying for the senior and co-captain of the men’s fenc- Olympic team in sabre fencing are the inter- ing team Grant Williams targeted one of national competitions,” Williams said. “So the four spots on the United States’ 2016 last year, when I was off school, I was able Junior World Championship Team in the to really focus on traveling to all those inter- sabre division. Seven months later, he not national competitions and that opportunity 1 p.m.: News, Opinion only made the team but also finished the gave me the ability to be relaxed enough to tournament 26th out of 145 fencers, second compete to the best of my ability.” among the four representing the U.S. For Showcasing more confidence in inter- Williams, competing at the Junior World national competitions, Williams steadily 1:30 p.m.: Culture Championships confirmed that he could positioned himself closer and closer to fence at the highest levels of the sport. Wil- Olympics qualification. As of February liams soon set his sights on the 2020 Sum- 2019, he rose to the eleventh spot in the na- mer Olympics in Tokyo. tional standings. 2 p.m.: Arts “Coming into college, I knew that the “All of last season I didn’t make a single Olympics were something that I would international result,” Williams said. “This hopefully one day be able to shoot for,” year, I made two. I see that as a result of the Williams said. “My freshman year, [making] work that I put in over the course of last the junior national team gave me the resolve year, training and just getting the reps in, 2:30 p.m.: Sports, Under the Arch to continue with the sport.” as well as developing the right mindset for Patrick Durkan, who has been Williams’ international competition.” private coach since he arrived at NYU as a The heightened level of competition of- first-year, noted his unlimited potential ten entailed facing opponents with more 3:30 p.m.: Multimedia, Design and helped encourage Williams to pur- daunting resumes than Williams’. In the sue the Olympics. second round of the Moscow Grand Prix, “The understanding was: if you can Williams faced Giovanni Repetti, an ex- [qualify for the Junior World Champi- perienced fencer who was a gold medalist onships] in one year, what can you do in for Team Italy in the Baku 2015 European five?” Williams said. Games. Overcoming a sprained ankle down Five years later, Williams is as close as 12-11, Williams proceeded to register the he can be to qualifying for a place in the next four touches to win 15-12. The ensuing U.S. Olympics team this summer. With round matched him against Junghwan Kim, four qualifying events left, starting with a 3-time World Cup winner and an Olympic a tournament in Varsovie, Poland on Feb. bronze medalist. Williams lost 15-9. 21, Williams is ranked fifth among the “He lost to [Kim], but he did a very re- senior U.S. fencers in the sabre division; spectable job,” Coach Durkan said. “You only the top four earn a spot on the U.S. talk about a 23 year old against someone six, Olympics Team. eight years older who’s been a [bronze med- Steve Mormando, the head coach of the alist], that was pretty impressive.” men’s and women’s fencing teams at NYU, As he prepares for the final qualifiers, has confidence in Williams’ ability to com- Williams has the support of his NYU team- pete with any opponent in the remain- mates. Upon returning to campus, Wil- ing qualifiers. liams has been a vocal leader, cheering on “Grant is a spectacular athlete,” Coach his teammates and imparting the insight he Mormando said. “He’s probably one of the has gained through his international experi- most talented athletes that we’ve had. Grant ence. His eagerness to connect with his for- THIRD NORTH is on the level of any Olympian that’s out mer and current teammates from both the there right now.” men’s and women’s teams has earned him a To give himself the best chance to qual- pretty big group of supporters. 75 3rd Ave, North Tower, #SB07 ify, Williams took a leave of absence from “It’s a lot easier when you’re with a NYU for the 2018-19 academic year. gang,” Coach Mormando said, “and Grant’s During the year, Williams trained six days a got one of the best gangs out there, a Top week, taking 90-minute commutes to New 10 NCAA championship team that he plays Jersey to train with his private coach and with daily. That’s a good gang.” bouting at fencing clubs around the city. The break from school gave him the time Email Kevin Ryu to concentrate on all facets of his game — at [email protected]. Washington Square News Staff

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