Providence College

Vol. LXXXV No. 4 October 15, 2020 thecowl.com An Interview with President Hosts Town Hall on Racism, COVID-19 Alongside Cabinet, Sicard Fields Questions from Community

PC Athletic Director by Hannah Langley '21 News Co-Editor Bob Driscoll ON-CAMPUS Over this past month, the Providence College by Cam Smith '21 community has had to adapt to many different issues Sports Co-Editor and address actions that must be taken in order to create SPORTS change. In an effort to do this, College President Father Kenneth Sicard, O.P., held a virtual town hall meeting open to all students on Oct. 5 to voice their questions Last October, The Cowl sat and concerns related to racial injustice and COVID-19 down with vice president and procedures on PC’s campus. director of athletics, Bob Driscoll, While Fr. Sicard called the meeting, many members in his office on the top floor of the of PC’s administration and faculty were also present Friar Development Center. The on the call to respond to questions when necessary. conversation revolved around Phionna Cayola-Claude ’18 moderated the meeting, as the remarkable success of well, asking questions live over Zoom for Fr. Sicard and Providence College athletics others to answer. in recent years, as well as the To begin the meeting, Cayola-Claude asked questions growth of the campus and its that came from students regarding the issue of racism stunning athletic facilities. and discrimination, wherever it may exist in the PC This October, that conversation looked vastly community. These questions spanned from issues different. In place of an in-person meeting was an in diversity within PC’s Development of Western all-too-familiar Zoom call. The topics of discussion Civilization (DWC) program, to racial profiling and were different, too. There was no Late Night reporting, to how PC intends to hold students, faculty, Madness to reflect on, nor was there a fall sports and staff accountable for acts of discrimination and season to review. Instead, the interview was filled racism. with thoughts on what could have been as well as The very first question asked was how Catholic social

speculation on what hopefully can be. PHOTO COURTESY OF PROVIDENCE COLLEGE teaching could be at the forefront of combating racism. GRAPHICS BY ANDREA TRAIETTI '21/THE COWL That being said, even without an ongoing Fr. Sicard began his tenure as the College's 13th Town Hall/Page 2 president mid-pandemic on July 1, 2020. sports season to discuss, there remained plenty to talk about. One might think an athletic director without sports may have some free time on their hands. However, Driscoll certainly does not, as his days without sports have been almost as busy as The Problem with Political Debates his days with them. Indeed, much like the rest of the world, the First Presidential Debate Was Symptom of Larger Disease state of PC athletics changed forever in mid- March. Driscoll and the men’s basketball team by Sienna Strickland '22 both came refusals to address missteps they have were in New York City, getting ready to play in Opinion Staff made in the past. the highly anticipated Big East tournament. The OPINION Although the candidates’ childish behavior was first game of the day had already kicked off, with certainly the biggest takeaway of the night, comparing the Friars due up next to take on Butler University. In a country more politically divided than ever, their conduct does not get us very far, especially if we Then, the news they were dreading came. there is one thing the American populace (and wish to revise the clearly flawed debate process in the “It felt surreal. I was just so excited to be down even foreigners for that matter) can agree on: the future. Incivility is a symptom of the larger problem, a there,” said Driscoll. “I knew it was kind of fragile, presidential debate was an utter embarrassment. It system that not only allows this type of conduct in our but I actually thought we were going to play. We does not take an expert polls statistician to measure debates, but also inevitably produces it. were on Zoom with the presidents and the ADs, the public’s evident discontent with In order to understand how disastrous the debate with the head people, the doctors from the NCAA the debate. All it takes is a quick was, we must understand what these debates just the day before, and they’re going ‘no we’re scroll through any social media purport to accomplish. The point of presidential good, everything is a go.’” platform to observe the data debates is to help educate those watching so they Soon, it became apparent that all spring sports firsthand. can understand how to make informed political athletics would have to be canceled as well. It As opposed to being decisions. Unfortunately, the current state of affairs was left to Driscoll and the athletic staff to deliver informative, insightful, or makes this nearly impossible. the heartbreaking news. “I remember telling our substantive in the slightest, Debates, which should involve participants student-athletes, first of all apologizing to the the debate instead played engaging critically with the issue at hand, have rather spring sports and telling them how heartbroken out much more like become a combative contest which ends with a shiny I was that their season got taken away,” recalled a WWE mudslinging prize: the presidency. The word “debate” is therefore Driscoll. “Particularly the seniors, who never got fight—with the scripted an egregious misnomer for what is essentially a a chance to finish it. But I never thought that we’d dramatics to match. On glamorized contest which is substantively empty at be sitting here today not playing sports in the fall. Donald Trump’s side came its core. Never.” his predictable propensity The same revolutionary advances that have been Driscoll had to make another set of calls once it for interrupting those made in the fields of political campaign communication became clear in the summer that fall sports would who are talking, often technology that seem undoubtedly beneficial on their have to be canceled too. It was not any easier the with inflammatory surface, are a seriously double-edged sword. Polls second time around. “That was difficult because and sensational are more accurate than ever before. Analysts are I knew they were heartbroken—as was I,” said remarks. On Joe able to break down demographics with machine-like Driscoll. “But one thing I said to them was that Biden’s side efficiency. Campaign outreach has also soared to new Friartown, we as a team, are built for this. Mental came subtle heights with the invention of social media, allowing toughness, grit, resilience—let’s use this as a way smirks and candidates to bypass traditional media, which has of developing our character.” snickers that continued to be full of curious and critical journalists reeked of smug analyzing the candidates’ claims. Driscoll/Page 18 GRAPHICS BY ANDREA TRAIETTI '21/THE COWL condescension. From Debates/Page 6 Providence College’s Student-Run Newspaper Since 1935 UNDERtheHOOD News 2 News A&E Portfolio Opinion 6 Read about the Humanities Dave Argento '21 reviews take-out Sarah Heavren '21 reflects on a Photography 9 Forum on March and the options made popular during reason to have hope A&E 10 legacy of John Lewis. the stay-at-home order. in her poem "Seasons." Portfolio 13 Page 3 Page 10 Page 15 Sports 18 October 15, 2020 NEWS The Cowl 3 Featured Friar: Matthew Petry '21 Page 2 News October 15, 2020 The Benefit of Getting Involved in Different Interests PC Makes Comeback after COVID Outbreak by Max Waite ’21 involved with the football and hockey programs. channel on PC’s radio station, WDOM 91.3. News Staff Additionally, he regularly volunteered for the Be Like As an Admission Ambassador, Petry gets to meet potential new students and inform them of all that by Sydney Olinger ’23 roommates or suitemates. For people living in off- Brit Foundation, which leads volunteer efforts for FEATURED FRIAR Friartown has to offer. Petry added, “It’s interesting to News Staff campus housing, their “pods” are only the people living disaster and humanitarian relief. As a volunteer for think that I was in these students’ position only a few on their floor. this organization, Petry traveled to Haiti for one week years ago. I love Providence College, so I thought it CAMPUS “Mingling with others—the most significant cause to learn about the Haitian culture, to build homes, and would be helpful to guide high school students during of our outbreak—remains prohibited. Think about the to help children within the community. Petry stated, “The whole experience was incredibly this process while sharing my own experiences.” Over the past two weeks, Providence College people in your immediate living environments like you moving. I was incredibly taken aback. I am extremely Petry has done a remarkable job in this position, and students, faculty, and staff have faced tremendous would your family—meaning if you live in residence grateful for this opportunity to help others, and it will he encourages students to learn more about joining the change and uncertainty due to the current global halls, it’s the people in your room, not all of the people be something that I will remember for the rest of my team. pandemic. After the severe COVID-19 outbreak that in your hall,” stated the members of the Providence life.” During his freshman year, Petry and some of his took place at PC, impacting students living both on College Continuity Task Force. During the college decision process, Petry wanted friends started a radio show. By tuning into Petry’s and off campus, faculty at PC and the Rhode Island The guidelines and rules for students returning to to find a similar environment to that of his high school. station on Saturdays from 6-8 p.m., active and admiring Department of Health took extreme measures to ensure campus from home resemble those we followed when Petry said, “What was really important for me was the listeners can experience a wide range of music from the outbreak did not spread any further in attempts first moving on campus. The school requires students size of the campus. I noticed on my tour and through country, to rock, to rap, to R&B, along with side to keep our school community and the surrounding to present a negative point-of-origin test and to take a visits to PC that everyone was really friendly. It was commentary about current events on campus. community safe. test at Peterson Recreation Center when they arrive on a close-knit campus community with a Division I Petry added, “The radio show has been a great Though students may have felt frustrated, upset, campus. Following arrival, students must quarantine athletic program and a great business school. I knew opportunity for me to access a creative outlet. My or even anxious about the lockdown that affected in their residence hall until they receive a negative that PC was the right fit for me and that I could adapt friends and I all have an absolute blast, and I will students living on and off campus, faculty at PC have test from the College, which then allows them to go to to campus life smoothly.” cherish the memories for a really long time.” worked diligently in taking all safety precautions in Raymond Dining Hall and buildings that are presently Petry is studying both finance and accountancy As the ambiguity of the outcome for this school order to keep our campus open and offer some sense of open. in the Providence College School of Business, where, year clouds the thoughts of the entire PC community, normalcy during these times. As of two weeks ago when the lockdown began, all recently, he has been active as the healthcare sector Petry reminisces on his favorite memories in Prior to the two-week lockdown, all classes were HANNAH LANGLEY '21/THECOWL buildings except for Slavin, Raymond Dining Hall, and portfolio manager in the new club Student-Led Asset Friartown. Petry stated, “My favorite memory at fully virtual, fully in-person, or a hybrid of the two. residence halls were closed. These guidelines had to Off-campus students are still advised to remain within Management (SLAM). Petry said, “This has been a Providence College was my freshman year when the For the past two weeks and part of this week during be put in place even though they very much restricted their own pods and wear masks. very exciting experience. I enjoy helping students learn men’s basketball team took down Villanova at the the transitional period to return to in-person classes, the freedom of students living on campus. These rules the fundamentals and guide them to pitch stocks they Dunk. I’ll never forget storming the court with all my students must attend all of their classes virtually. “The week of Oct. 5 should be considered one of remain in place during this week of transitioning back PHOTO COURTESY OF MATTHEW PETRY '21. believe we should buy.” friends, and seeing the giant cloud of pink shirts fill Due to this change, many students residing in transition. There are numerous reasons that the return to the new normal. Petry '21 is thankful for the memories he has made during his Additionally, Petry has been an equity analyst for up the arena.” dorms and apartments on campus made the decision must necessarily be gradual, and we ask for patience as Although it is certainly a difficult time for students three years at PC. the Student Managed Investment Fund class in both the In terms of what Petry will miss, he says, “I will to go home after receiving a negative COVID-19 test. we work together through the next few days,” explained everywhere—with not being able to hang out with old For all incoming students at Providence College, industrial and communications sectors, respectively. miss the community as a whole (which I already do Although students were hopeful that this lockdown the members of the Providence College Continuity Task friends, meet new friends, and even become acquainted the process of getting involved with the various Recently, Petry was named co-president of the currently). I will miss seeing everyone that I don’t would only be temporary, there was no guarantee that Force. with our professors—there are countless ways to organizations on campus can be quite intimidating. Finance Society alongside Liam Faulkner ’21. Petry normally see or wouldn’t normally talk to. I’ve made the campus would reopen. These students took a chance One of the newer COVID-19 guidelines the College accomplish all of these things virtually. It is undeniably However, getting involved with the school community stated, “Our vision together is to really try and expose a great group of friends over my past three years, and given that they might not have been allowed to reenter has been encouraging is for students to stay in a “pod.” challenging and very different from the way we lived is important, as it can pave the way toward many all the students that are a part of Finance Society to for now, I really look forward to spending more time campus, but thankfully, as of this weekend’s Continuity This essentially means the only people you should be less than a year ago, but making adjustments during amazing experiences. By gradually developing their as many career paths as possible. There are so many with them and making more memories.” email, the school will slowly begin reopening. around when you are not wearing a mask are your this time is imperative. own networks, students have the ability to access more career paths within financial services, and it is hard to Matthew Petry’s journey through Friartown should and more of these opportunities. receive exposure to all of them.” serve as an inspiration to all those who wish to make During the past three years, Matthew Petry ’21 has To add to Petry’s impressive resume and the most out of their Providence College experience. seized the vast amount of resources and opportunities involvement within the school community, he has Involvement is key, for PC has opened many doors Addressing Racism and COVID-19 Concerns that the College has to offer. been a student mentor, an Admissions Ambassador, for him, including his recently accepted position at Growing up in Southborough, Massachusetts, team captain for his group of four students at the Citizens Financial Group as an investment banking Fr. Sicard Holds Virtual Town Hall Webinar Petry attended St. John’s High School, where he was PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) challenge, and has a analyst in their Boston office.

reporting as well, discussing how the a response to a question about whether who were in quarantine or isolation Remembering the Legacy of John Lewis Town Hall system for filing a report has recently or not DWC should be required, and from the very beginning are far past been remodeled. She hopes that this the College stands by its stance that the their required 14-day isolation period. Continued from front page new software will make tracking and program is a “foundational element of In regards to communication about Humanities Forum Held to Review Lewis's Autobiographical Book monitoring incidents more effective, the core curriculum.” repercussions and what is to come, A later, similar question asked time efficient, and will improve record The statement did include, however, especially for off-campus students, Sears by Nicole Silverio ’22 activism, you think of the young how members of the LGBTQIA+ keeping. These reports are then reviewed that there should be a more critical eye mentioned a mandatory Zoom session News Staff people changing the shape of the community could be protected under by several people, including Quincy turned inward on the negative impacts regarding that on Wednesday, Oct. 7. world; the success of our book was due Church teaching. In response to these Bevely, assistant vice president of IDEI, of the ‘triumph of western civilization’ This Zoom session was also hosted in a CAMPUS to 18-25-year-olds.” questions, Father James Cuddy, and Kathleen Alvino, associate vice such as colonialism, genocide, forced town hall format, and the main purpose Nate Powell, who served as the O.P., vice president for Mission and president of human resources. There are conversion, exploitation, religious wars, was to advise off-campus students to On the afternoon of Friday, Oct. illustrator of the book, gave his insight Ministry, stated that the Church does then several different steps that may be etc. remain in their respective homes and 2, Nate Powell and Andrew Aydin, on the trilogy and on John Lewis. Lewis not believe in discrimination, saying, taken following the initial report, which While more was said on the College’s pods or face consequences from PC who collaborated on the graphic novel had been an inspiration to Powell since “Every person without exception and can be seen in detail on the IDEI page on response to racism, the meeting also Public Safety, Providence police, or the March with the late congressman and his childhood. When asked by Breen without qualification is made in God’s the PC website. addressed questions and concerns 02908 Club. Sears said that any students civil rights activist John Lewis, joined how he came to draw these images image and likeness.” Questions were also asked about surrounding the College and COVID-19. caught on video or in photos will be Patrick Breen at the Humanities Forum to convey a message about the civil He argued that the Church’s teaching how the College is working towards Although directives from the College reported and called, and those breaking to discuss their book and the legacy of rights movement, Powell replied that on marriage “in no way precludes the eliminating unconscious bias incidents. have changed over time, one thing that the rules will be held accountable. the legendary civil rights activist and the book was a process of humanizing necessity of treating one another well” Peterson addressed this, saying, “the has remained consistent is the College’s Before the town hall meeting even congressman. Breen interviewed Aydin the storytelling—it required a delicate and the treatment of every person as an more we can educate the community decision to re-open beginning Oct. 12 began, many students boycotted the and Powell on their collaboration with balance of an accurate and creative individual of the PC community must around unconscious bias, the more we for both on-campus and off-campus event due to the webinar format, which Lewis, their personal relationship with account of its history. come first. will be able to change the [College’s] students with weekly tests administered did not allow for live questions to be him, and Lewis’s legacy. Knowing Lewis personally and Several questions were posed on culture.” based on alphabetical order. seen, creating a fear of censorship. The Lewis passed away in July at the remembering his legacy, Powell the subject of racial profiling and the To work towards this goal, the IDEI When asked about how another College responded that the platform age of 80 after a year-long battle with explains that throughout Lewis’s procedures surrounding how one department created the Advocated for a outbreak can be prevented, especially as was meant to be more accommodating, pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a lifetime, he had a rare ferocity and should report incidents of racism, and Beloved Community (ABC) group earlier colder months approach, Fr. Sicard and as it allowed for more people to attend legacy through his civil rights activism passion for the things he cared about. and time in Congress. “The level of intensity he saw in the how to feel safe doing so. Fr. Sicard this year. This group consists of students, Dr. Ann Manchester-Molak, executive and removed the potential for Zoom- PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ATLANTIC During the civil rights movement, world and finding a way to fight the addressed this question by explaining faculty, and staff who have been through vice president of the College, stressed bombing. Lewis (far right) pictured marching with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others. the new Title VI procedure students, professional training to learn more about the importance of students remaining Fr. Sicard also made sure not to Lewis was one of the “Big Six” leaders injustice he saw throughout society faculty, and staff should use, which social justice and to help educate people in their pods, or groups of people with censor any question by releasing a who organized the 1963 March on comic book called Martin Luther King Aydin discussed the impact the was truly amazing,” said Powell. allows for anyone to file a report by throughout the campus community to whom they directly live. written statement afterwards with Washington. In 1965, he led the first and the Montgomery Story, which series has had on young people, On a similar note, Aydin closed using a link. prevent unconscious bias. Dean Steven Sears, associate vice responses to all questions asked during of the three Selma to Montgomery had inspired him to get involved in who make up a big portion of the by telling the listeners one thing that He addressed the fact that reporting In regards to reforms around the president for student affairs, also noted the meeting. marches. In 1986, Lewis was elected the civil rights movement. He began book’s readers. Since the work is a Lewis always told him: “Once you lose such incidents should not be up to Development of Western Civilization that while students are encouraged to While no one is certain of what the to the U.S. House of Representatives, by attending meetings at universities graphic novel rather than a traditional your sense of fear only then can you be just students, and higher levels of (DWC) program, Sean Reid, provost and remain in their pods, they should get out future will hold, Sicard hopes that these where he served 17 terms as a weekly to discuss nonviolent protests. autobiography, Aydin says, “We need free.” This motto has always stuck with administration should recognize racial senior vice president of academic affairs, around campus and take advantage of types of town hall meetings will allow representative of the state of Georgia. Aydin first met John Lewis while to show our heroes’ humanity through Aydin and is worth remembering. bias and discrimination when they see said that he recognized the “narrow the buildings on campus that are open. for continued open discussion to create March, an autobiographical black- on a job interview during Lewis’s some form of creativity, the young This Humanities Forum it, but he asks that students use the scope” of the program when he joined John Sweeney, senior vice president a more beloved community. Fr. Sicard and-white graphic novel trilogy about reelection campaign. He was hired generation needs a creative leap.” commemorated not only the impactful system so that incidents will not go the PC community this year. of finance and business, also noted that and PC administration want students to the civil rights movement, was written and worked alongside Lewis for over March covers the student sit-ins and history of the fight for civil rights in the unheard. He said that an implementation plan the outbreak that began primarily off- share their thoughts, experiences, and by Congressman Lewis and Aydin 13 years. “The book itself is universally the impact of the youth on the civil 1960s, but of one the most important Jacqueline Peterson, special advisor for reform is currently in the works in the campus did not spread to the larger feelings so that the College community with illustrations by Powell. The trilogy readable,” Aydin said while discussing rights movement. figures of the movement. It is important to the President for the Institutional hopes of broadening the program’s scope Providence community, which was a can learn and progress in the right tells the story of the civil rights protests March. “Comics are going to become Aydin reflects on the impact the that we remember Lewis not only this Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (IDEI) and making it a more holistic program. major concern for many. He also noted direction. from Lewis’s perspective. At 15-years- ingrained in the educational system younger generation has on change, year, but every year going forward, for department, addressed Title VI That being said, the College released that of the over 200 cases, those students PHOTO COURTESY OF COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG old, Lewis was introduced to a 10-cent and the younger generation.” saying, “When you talk about student the legacy he has left behind. 4 The Cowl NEWS October 15, 2020 September 6, 2012 PC Dads in Politics Speak on Upcoming Election College Hosts Chris Christie '23P and Michael Dukakis '23GP

by Eileen Cooney ’23 public service came at a young age. He told stories News Staff of being six years old and watching the Democratic National Convention with his grandmother and of CAMPUS being a teenager volunteering on Tom Kean’s 1977 campaign for the Republican nomination for the On Thursday, Oct. 1, Providence College hosted governor of New Jersey. a Friar Forum with two former governors and Dukakis and Christie, who both have extensive presidential candidates, Chris Christie ’23P and experience in bridging partisan division, were asked Michael Dukakis ’23GP. Christie and Dukakis how current political leaders can work effectively answered questions about the upcoming election and with opposing ideas or individuals. shared stories about their careers in public service. Christie stressed the importance of generating The event, moderated by political science strong personal relationships with others above all department chair Dr. Joseph Cammarano and else. He feels that the largest problem in Washington, senior political science major Julia Murphy ’21, was D.C. today is the lack of interaction between extremely popular with over 700 students, parents, politicians; they do not engage with one another long PHOTO COURTESY OF NEWS.PROVIDENCE.EDU faculty, and alumni in attendance. enough to foster personal trust. “It’s much harder Christie and Dukakis shared their personal experiences in politics. Murphy opened the forum by asking the two to hate up close,” he says. That is why personal In addition to questions asked by the moderators, former governors, “What drew you to public service, relationships make all the difference. Similarly, Dukakis and Christie also answered questions from the and what made you stay so long?” Both Christie and Dukakis emphasized the importance of inviting audience about the current executive administration’s Dukakis answered with detailed, personal anecdotes leaders on both sides to work together to solve COVID-19 response, the recent nomination of a about their early childhood and adolescence. problems and develop policy. Supreme Court Justice, and how one can ensure that Dukakis, growing up in Brookline, MA at a While bipartisanship is surely a big issue, so is the our democratic institutions are not weakened. time when people of color were barred from living lack of democratic participation among young people. Murphy says that “co-moderating the Friar Forum in his neighborhood, listened to the CBS World Thus, Murphy asked Christie and Dukakis what was a great experience, as it was really remarkable News Roundup every night on the radio, and grew passionate young people should do to get involved. to see Governor Dukakis and Governor Christie, interested in solving the injustices he observed in Both responded by emphasizing that we have who fall on opposite sides of the political aisle, his immediate surroundings. He says that he never a political system that allows for people of all come together to share stories and insight about the regretted his decision to serve in the public sector, backgrounds to come forward and speak their minds. importance of public service.” Coming away from the and he emphatically claimed, “to be able to make a They highlighted the importance of young millennials event, Murphy says that she hopes “people watching difference in the lives of your fellow citizens, there is and Generation Z kids just showing up, displaying saw this as an example of how we can work together nothing like it.” their talent, and working hard to make their voices despite our differences and to take the time to get to Similar to Dukakis, Christie said his interest in heard. know people we do not always agree with.” Bursting the PC Bubble Letter from the Takeaways from the First 2020 Presidential Debate 71st Student Congress by Addison Wakelin ’22 for a justice during an election year. Biden suggested the Proud Boys, a far- News Staff Biden countered Trump’s claims, right, fascist organization that spouts warning that Barrett’s potentially anti-Semitic, Islamophobic and other WORLD NEWS by Student Congress successful nomination will solidify a 6-3 bigoted rhetoric. Executive Board conservative majority in the Supreme Trump stated, “Proud Boys, stand Less than a month away from the Court. As a result, Republicans will back and stand by.” Trump’s comments CONGRESS 2020 presidential election, the first be able to repeal Roe v. Wade and the caused an uproar. “Stand back and presidential debate left many Americans Affordable Care Act, unraveling years stand by” suggests that these groups in a state of pessimism and uncertainty of progressive lawmaking that could wait for his command and is not a During these difficult times, about the future of the United States. strip away healthcare accessibility and condemnation of their actions. we find ourselves needing the On Tuesday, Sept. 29 in Cleveland, benefits for many Americans, especially The debate left one question: who Friar Family more than ever. The former Vice President Joe women. won? For many Americans, the answer unwavering efforts and presence Biden and President Donald COVID-19 also became is no one. The nation is at a standstill of every single Providence College Trump faced off in a brutish a major point of discussion between polarizing political beliefs and administrator is apparent everyday debate during one of the during the debate. Trump has a chaotic year defined by a pandemic on and off campus. most unprecedented been criticized for holding and socio-racial upheaval. Administrators have been times in modern U.S. several rallies without Many viewers felt as though the working around-the-clock with history. The debate was masks or social distancing true loser of the debate was the United the Rhode Island Department of moderated by Fox News enforcement, as the States itself. Between the U.S. nearing Health (RIDOH) to support families anchor Chris Wallace. U.S. has surpassed 215 almost 220 thousand coronavirus and students in any way they can Although the debate thousand coronavirus deaths, millions of Americans having during these times. They have been became somewhat deaths. Trump taunted Biden during filed for unemployment and facing tirelessly working to deliver food to personal given Trump’s jeers and ad the debate for his mask-wearing, saying, eviction since the pandemic started, and both on and off-campus students, to hominem attacks against Biden and his “I don’t wear a mask like him. growing social unrest, the U.S. faces a provide support through counseling family—especially Hunter Biden—the Every time you see him, he’s desolate political landscape. and public health resources, to two debated on some important topics got a mask. He could be Only time will tell if the U.S. communicate updated plans, and pertaining to the United States. The speaking 200 feet away from can muster the strength above all, to keep Providence debate can be broken down into several you and he shows up with and unity necessary College open and safe for all to important topics, picked by Wallace, the biggest mask I’ve ever to overcome the enjoy. including the Supreme Court vacancy, seen.” hardships that have On behalf of students, we want the COVID-19 pandemic, protests and Less than 72 hours after the plagued this country. to formally thank all staff and violence in cities as a result of the issue debate, on Oct. 2, Trump announced After Trump’s administration who have sacrificed of racism, and the economy. he tested positive for COVID-19. COVID-19 diagnosis, time and energy to support PC and Following the tragic death of former He tweeted: “Tonight, @FLOTUS the Commission on its community. The Friar Family Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader and I tested positive for COVID-19.” Presidential Debates continues to stand strong. Ginsburg, the Supreme Court vacancy Trump was promptly hospitalized at decided that the second presidential has become a point of interest for Walter Reed Hospital and treated with debate, initially scheduled for Oct. 15, Republicans. Less than two weeks after an experimental antibody treatment, would be canceled, citing Trump’s RBG’s death, Trump announced he steroids, and oxygen. He has since been refusal to participate in a virtual debate. would nominate Amy Coney Barrett to released. Both candidates have instead opted the Supreme Court. Perhaps the most shocking part to host their own respective virtual Several Republicans, including South of the debate was Trump’s failure town halls on Oct. 15 at 8 p.m., with Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham and to condemn white supremacists. NBC covering Trump’s town hall and Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell, Wallace challenged Trump, asking ABC covering Biden. have been criticized for their hypocritical if he is willing to “condemn white The next debate is scheduled comments on blocking Obama’s supremacists and militia groups.” Both for Thursday, Oct. 22 in Nashville, nomination of Merrick Garland to the Wallace and Biden pushed Trump to moderated by NBC’s White House Supreme Court in 2016, claiming it condemn white supremacists. After correspondent Kristen Welker. would be unfair to Americans to vote asking for a specific group to condemn, PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR.COM FebruaryOctober 15,18, 20202010 ADVERTISEMENTSPHOTOGRAPHY TheThe CowlCowl 57

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Biden’s supporters want someone their ramifications. This is the job of political propaganda than anything of Debates to tell the chatty president to finally the media, commonly coined “the substance. Without a watchdog media “shut up”; they want someone watchdog” of the republic. presence able to hold these corporations Continued from front page who is serious about running the Unfortunately, journalism is and campaigns responsible, people government. Biden’s strategy a dwindling field, as it is both are burdened with now having to The campaign has more control therefore included dismissing Trump underfunded and understaffed. It become their own journalists, being than ever before over the narrative as ridiculous, with perhaps his most has resorted to accepting money asked to choose from an endless litany it chooses to spin, and this power memorable line of the night being: from anywhere it can, of flawed or intentionally misleading is certainly exploited. The problem “Will you, shut up, man?” He spoke including political information with little to no help. is therefore not just the increase more to the American people than advertising. It is reported Our politicians are not above this in incivility, but the decrease in he did directly to his that essential local behavior either. Advances in political authenticity. An iconic example of opponent, because his media outlets campaign communication technology this comes from Hillary Clinton’s supporters do not see give voters less have allowed them to tap into the 2016 campaign, in an interview with Trump as someone news in order psychology of their candidates, and the The Breakfast Club, during which she worth engaging. to make way for death of journalism has resulted in a lack tells the Black hosts the food item she All of this is more political of accountability. This dysfunctionality must have at all times is hot sauce. orchestrated: every propaganda, of our democracy is perfectly Charlemagne tha God responded, strategy, movement, as that is what exemplified by the first presidential “Are you trying to pander to us right comment, and attack. The pays the bills. debate, where outrageous pandering, now?” To which Clinton answered way the game of politics is When a news overgeneralizing, sensationalizing, and with a nervous yet maniacal giggle: played is fundamentally network suffers mud-slinging to appease the teams’ “Is it working?” artificial, posing a huge from being specific “sides” were all on full display. The candidates we see debating problem for a system of understaffed, How can we fix this? Many policy have a team of analysts and public government that needs the populations proposals have been offered as relations professionals chirping in more transparency and of the areas that solutions to improve our debates. their ears who have carefully dissected nuance to conduct network covers Some of these have been proposals what their target demographic wants conversation properly. subsequently to introduce mic-muting measures to to hear, as opposed to what the In addition to the suffer as a result, prevent candidates from talking over moderator has specifically asked of insincerity comes remaining one another and over the specified them. This is because, in the game of the format of the back- largely ignorant time limits. Another has been politics, an unpolished response is a and-forth insults as of potentially including more than two candidates dangerous one. Campaigns do not opposed to forming huge news stories. in the debates to allow for a more want to invite any scrutiny—they coherent responses. Both Stories that are fruitful discussion with more diverse want support, they want votes. concepts contribute to PHOTO COURTESY OF NEEDPIX.COM shared are often more viewpoints. Trump supporters want digs at a debate format that ultimately fails reactive in nature than they are in- These political appendages are Biden, and they are distrustful of the American people by neglecting to depth investigative pieces. The essential services for the American a career politician who is a part of deliver informative content. quality of the media has diminished people, and our democracy will not what they perceive to be a corrupt On top of the insincerity significantly. thrive until we all recognize them establishment. Trump’s analysts plaguing American politics is the For those in power this is an as such. These are great ideas that knew this, and delivered. One of waning field of journalism. It is ideal circumstance, as they can we should all consider, but the work Trump’s most common digs toward an unreasonable expectation for exploit the general ignorance of the ultimately starts at home. There are Biden was how the former vice regular Americans to fact check American populace by feeding them two things we can all start doing president accomplished “nothing” in every claim made by candidates curated public relations messages on the ground today: talking and his 47 years of public service. independently, nevermind analyze that are more interested in promoting listening. Harmful Language and Inaccurate Assumptions The Importance of Being More Sensitive to Those Suffering from Eating Disorders

by Emily Ball ’22 help that they need. Those suffering may begin will feel as though their struggles are unjustified Opinion Staff to think that their illness is not actually an illness because they do not look like somebody society when society idealizes it. would perceive to be suffering from an eating SOCIETY An instance of this harmful rhetoric occurred disorder. in 2018 when Amazon plastered language The focus on body image is omnipresent in Trigger Warning: This article contains a undermining the issue of eating disorders on the modern society. As such, it is important to be discussion about eating disorders. front of a sweatshirt. sensitive when talking about eating disorders. “The ‘Anorexia Styling Hoody for Women’ The language that you use can be harmful, even if In a culture that is hyper-aware of physical sold by ArturoBuch on Amazon reads ‘Anorexia that is not your intention, as you never know the appearance and body image, the diagnosis of (an-uh-rek-see-uh) Like Bulimia, except with self full extent to which somebody is suffering. eating disorders has become a more prevalent control,’” the NEDA said. issue. According to the National Eating Disorders Although Amazon has since made this Association (NEDA), “An estimated 30 million sweatshirt unavailable for purchase, this type of Americans suffer from an eating disorder at some triggering language is still prevalent in society point in their lives.” today and is very damaging to the mind of Those that fail to understand the magnitude of someone suffering from anorexia. eating disorders must work to be more sensitive An additional common yet factually incorrect to harmful rhetoric and inaccurate popularized belief is that all people who suffer from eating beliefs that can be triggering to those suffering disorders are “skinny.” This belief is harmful to from eating disorders. someone who is considered an average weight or Our society tends to falsely characterize a weight that is somewhat above the average for anorexia as a dietary choice, while, in reality, their age group, as this language discounts their this type of language undermines the true pain and suffering from an eating disorder. struggles that somebody suffering from anorexia “I knew I had become a little obsessed with endures on a daily basis. In fact, anorexia is the food and how I felt about my body, but I felt an complete opposite of willpower and control, and eating disorder was something ‘skinny’ people romanticizing it is harmful to somebody whose got, and I wasn’t ‘skinny.’ However, the doctor life is upended by this illness. explained to me that people of all weights and “Our culture sees and promotes anorexia as a sizes can develop eating disorders and that he self-control ideal. In reality, anorexia is a deadly felt my behaviors indicated I had bulimia,” Marie mental illness and is anything but control,” said Duffy, a mental health advocate, said. Erin Gargaro, a member of the NEDA community. The misconception that somebody suffering By using language that falsely idealizes from an eating disorder must be “skinny” is anorexia, we are indirectly discouraging those harmful to people who do not fit into that suffering with eating disorders from seeking the stereotype. Those undergoing this experience PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ACADEMY FOR EATING DISORDERS October 15, 2020 OPINION The Cowl 7 8 The Cowl School Size Does Not Exclude You from Testing How PC’s Testing Plan Compares to Nearby Rhode Island Universities

by Peter Mazzella ’22 undergraduate student populations. However as Opinion Staff of the most recent data, URI only administered 6,944 tests between Oct. 6 - Oct. 12. While this COVID-19 may seem like a high number of tests, it is underwhelmingly small relative to the overall In the midst of a global pandemic, universities size of the URI student population, and may be across the country are dealing with similar part of the reason why only 137, or 2 percent, of problems: keeping the campus and community those tested have tested positive. safe while still offering the experience students Salve Regina University, a school with an are used to. While the recent spike in Providence undergraduate population of 2,167 students, College’s positive cases may seem daunting, there has administered 3,863 tests, with three students is a faculty and student population who are more testing positive, which equates to 0.078 percent. than dedicated to devising and following a plan Comparing these numbers to URI, whose that ensures our campus’s safety. There is also a undergraduate student enrollment is 13,790, large discrepancy in the testing practices of PC raises questions as to the low number of students and neighboring Rhode Island colleges that may and faculty being tested. This may help explain help to explain why PC has had an outbreak, but the gap between schools who have had higher other colleges and universities appear to remain positive test results and those who do not. healthy. Putting an emphasis on the safety of students as well as the surrounding community, PC has With students’ return to campus, the PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY possibility of an outbreak is something that exceeded expectations in handling this outbreak, While PC recently began mandated weekly COVID PC’s contingency plan anticipated. The sheer and truly showed its attention to detail in testing for its entire student population, other volume of faculty and students prepared the preparing a plan of action, should an outbreak universities in the state are not testing as frequently. College to enact protocols in a timely manner. happen again. Restricting students to stay on campus for a Through mandatory weekly testing and timely explain why PC’s mandated quarantine was put quarantine period and moving to online classes results, the College can react accordingly on into place. helped suppress the recent outbreak before its quarantine protocols to ensure everyone’s safety. The College’s numbers may appear high; consequences were irreversible. Using PC as a precedent for outbreak protocol, however, this is primarily due to the sheer What contained the outbreak at PC was surrounding Rhode Island schools should follow amount of tests being administered. Mandatory the extensive testing of students on a weekly in their footsteps and develop a standard for the testing is the most effective way to contain a virus, basis. According to the most recent statistic, PC’s safety of those living in the state. especially during a global pandemic. If schools do total student and faculty test count sits at 26,930 After reviewing these statistics, it is apparent not test frequently, there will naturally not be as tests, as of Oct. 14. . Of those tested, 246 have that a higher student population does not correlate many known active positive cases. Thus schools tested positive, which rounds to 0.91 percent of to the number of tests being administered. For a that are not testing frequently must change their the population tested. much smaller school like PC, the overwhelming course of action, as it is the responsibility of these Other Rhode Island schools, such as the difference in the number of students being tested institutions to keep the state of Rhode Island, University of Rhode Island, have far larger in comparison to these other schools might and surrounding communities, safe. Internship Canceled Because of COVID-19? How the “New Normal” Presents New Opportunities by Katherine Belbusti ’22 of the initial COVID-19 outbreak applications. still may have given students Opinion Staff with the good news that their job Those graduating in 2021, 2022, or exposure to fields they are interested SOCIETY applications had been approved for 2023 were the hardest hit for loss of in. the summer of 2020. internships, but Pellecchia believes Additionally, the pandemic may Unfortunately, in the months that as long as they spent their change the way people work moving It seems as though the list of approaching June, the rescinding summers productively, they will forward, as companies increase effects from the COVID-19 pandemic of offers from internship programs not be at a disadvantage: “Explain remote work opportunities. Any keeps growing, including the loss impacted many PC students, as it to employers that even though you experience is a good experience. of summer internships for college did for many college students. Even were not able to participate in an Pellecchia goes further to say that students. Beginning their freshman those lucky few whose internships internship, these are the things that I the “new normal” environment year, Providence College students were not canceled but were instead did. The Career Center took the loss should be used as an advantage. are taught, “Don’t wait! Slavin 108!” made virtual did not get the full, of internships into consideration Most students do not have and because of this, many students hands-on experience envisioned and stepped in this summer to offer the same kind of extracurricular complete all necessary steps to when they originally applied. LinkedIn learning services, Excel commitments that they had before ensure that they will have an Panic set in for many students, Certification, and even resume COVID-19, allowing them more time internship for at least two summers with many lamenting, “No job, no building.” to work on professional skills and of their college career, if not more. experience, how will any employer If you had a virtual internship resume building. The term “new Little compares to the joy felt find me a desirable candidate?” and feel that you did not get the normal” is being used more and when hard work pays off and an According to Laura Pellecchia in full experience you had wanted, more recently, but it is something application is accepted. Back in PC’s Center for Career Education you may have learned more than that everyone must accept, even March when decisions were sent & Professional Studies, employers you think. Pellecchia believes that looking forward to next summer’s out, some students felt a temporary will be more understanding when those students will not be at a internship plans. reprieve from the chaotic mess reviewing college graduates’ disadvantage, as virtual internships Many large companies are still planning to work remotely until at least summer 2021, and the junior class especially should be prepared for more virtual internships. Additionally, many part-time internships are being offered during the fall and winter, which may be the perfect fit for someone who feels as though they are behind after having an internship canceled this past summer. These new opportunities provide students with the ability to not only get more professional experience, but also to gain experience from a more diverse group of companies in different cities, even countries, that would not have been possible if done in person. Students are no longer bound by location for their internship possibilities. While the pandemic took away some At Career Expos in the past, PC students were able to interact directly with potential employers. PHOTO COURTESY OF PROVIDENCE.EDU opportunities, it has also opened The Expo has moved to a virtual format as a result of the pandemic. doors to many more. The Cowl 7 8 The Cowl OPINION October 15, 2020

Providence College’s Student-Run Newspaper Since 1935 Coping with Burnout and Building Resilience

Publisher: Dr. Steven A. Sears Taking Time to Recharge Is a Sign of Strength Advisor: Richard F. Kless the pandemic in general add more Trying to power through by Journalism Consultant: Michael Pare stressors and put new demands on ignoring when we feel burnt out is students, exacerbating the effects of counterproductive; we need to take Editor-in-Chief: Andrea Traietti ’21 burnout: we have all been juggling a step back when we start seeing Social Media Curator: Isabela Fernandez busy schedules in a virtual format some of the telltale symptoms ’23 and spending hours in front of of burnout—exhaustion, lack of a screen, attending classes and motivation, and inability to focus. News Co-Editor: Kyle Burgess ’21 News Co-Editor: Hannah Langley ’21 meetings, keeping up-to-date on Taking some time to engage in information in the College’s emails, simple acts of self-care, such as Opinion Co-Editor: Savannah Plaisted and getting homework done. going for a walk, baking with ’21 Opinion Co-Editor: Kelly Wheeler ’21 The timing of reopening right friends, carving out some no-screen around midterms was somewhat time, or participating in one of the Arts & Entertainment Co-Editor: Patrick unlucky: coming off of roughly three many events being offered by the Fuller ’21 Arts & Entertainment Co-Editor: Sara weeks of online classes, students College and Board of Programmers Conway ’21 have had little time to fight off “Zoom (BOP), is even more important now fatigue” before jumping straight because it can interrupt burnout Portfolio Co- Editor: Sarah Kirchner ’21 into midterm assignments, which and help us reset. Portfolio Co-Editor: Sarah McLaughlin ’23 contribute to feelings of academic Flexibility, adaptability, and Portfolio Co-Editor: Elizabeth McGinn burnout even in a regular semester. patience are the qualities that ’21 by Andrea Traietti ’21 Add in the responsibility of have enabled us to cope with the Editor-in-Chief Sports Co-Editor: Jack Belanger ’21 keeping up with an ever-changing, pandemic thus far, and we should Sports Co-Editor: Cam Smith ’21 EDITOR’S COLUMN overwhelming news cycle during take care to exercise those same an election that is taking place mid- traits with ourselves, as well. Photography Editor: Brianna Colletti ’21 pandemic, and all of these factors If you are feeling burnt out or Academic burnout is something seem like the perfect storm for simply stretched too thin, do not Head Copy Editor: Elizabeth Gleason ’21 many of us college students are burnout. be discouraged—we have all been Co-Asst. Head Copy Editor: Nicole familiar with by now. It seems to Therefore, we should not look at there before. Patano ’22 Co-Asst. Head Copy Editor: Tuyenhan build up slowly every semester burnout, regardless of what causes Remember that far from showing Nguyen ’22 until it catches up to us all at once, it, as a sign of weakness. Burnout is weakness or vulnerability, checking oftentimes right at the height of stress likely to happen to all of us at some in on ourselves and being willing during midterms and finals week. Copy Editors: Hope Allard ’22, Haley point. Humans are not infallible, to take a break is actually a sign Godin ’22, Colleen Joyce ’22, Ashley This semester has been no and needing to take a break does of strength: ultimately, it builds Kaplan ’21, Delaney MacDonald ’22, exception when it comes to not mean we are not resilient. our resilience, helps us recharge, Kathleen Montana ’23, Grace Sherlog burnout—in fact, burnout this year Rather, reflecting on the state of our and gets us to a place where we ’22, Anna Young ’24 feels like it has hit sooner, with mental health, recognizing when can jump back into the work we more intensity, and in new ways for we feel burnt out, hitting pause, and are doing and the things we are so many students. making choices to improve how we passionate about with enthusiasm The outbreak last month and are feeling are all signs of strength. and a positive outlook. Why Cleanliness Remains Essential Cleanliness During COVID-19

by Olivia Bretzman ’22 one of these halls, said, “I was really upset because we Opinion Staff were assigned a move-in date a week after classes began CAMPUS specifically so our room could be deep-cleaned after it was used for quarantine space. When we arrived, though, the first thing we saw was the fridge pulled out with the wall This past summer, the COVID-19 pandemic forced behind it covered in dark mold and uncovered a white students to decide whether to study remotely or to lighter and a chicken patty underneath. We immediately return to campus for the fall semester. In making this contacted Res Life, and they were extremely apologetic difficult decision, one of the main factors that students and quick to remove the mold.” considered was the safety of returning to school. With Although the prompt response by the Office of such a significant number of students moving into Residence Life is comforting, it is unfortunate that one concentrated area, there was an undeniably large students felt unsafe in their new living areas during a time possibility that the virus would enter campus and when germs and dirtiness pose an even greater threat to Disclaimer The opinions and positions expressed in The spread throughout the Providence College community one’s health. Despite this, it is important to refrain from Cowl do not necessarily represent those of Providence College or The Cowl’s staff, and the content of (and, as the events of the past few weeks have revealed, allowing our fears to create division by placing too much advertisements do not necessarily communicate endorsement by the College or The Cowl’s staff. the fear of an outbreak was not unreasonable). blame on others, as the pandemic has presented everyone Letter/Guest Submission Policy Given that we are in a pandemic, cleanliness is of with countless new problems and challenges to navigate. The Cowl welcomes guest opinions and letters to the editor from members of the Providence College the utmost importance. The College acknowledged Beth Sculley, assistant director of Residence Life & community and outside contributors. All submissions this fact, and most students arrived Housing, said, “COVID-19 has influenced nearly all must include the writer’s name, signature, a phone number, and an email address where he or she can be on campus with the assumption that of our operations from programming to housing reached. Letters should be no more than 250 words in length and will be printed as space permits. Guest sanitation and safety would be the top to staffing. We can no longer program the way commentaries should be limited to 500 words in length, and only one will be published per week. The priority. we used to particularly in the first-year areas. Cowl reserves the right to edit articles for grammar. Submissions must be emailed to The Cowl office no PC demonstrated its commitment to COVID-19 has completely redefined our later than 9 ­­­p.m. on the Sunday before publication. We do not print previously published articles. student health and safety by delaying community-building tactics. Perhaps what has Email responses to [email protected], and the move-in process for students living been most difficult is balancing the emotional and remember a guest submission is only an email away. in Davis and Bedford Halls in order social needs of students with guidance from public Accuracy Watch The Cowl is committed to accuracy and carefully to ensure residents would be welcomed by and state health officials. There is no blueprint checks every article that goes into print to ensure that the facts are presented clearly and truthfully. If you properly cleaned rooms. These buildings were or best practices for residence life during a find an error in any article, please email the Editor- in-Chief at [email protected]. Corrections will be utilized as quarantine destinations for students pandemic.” printed as necessary. arriving from international locations or hotspot COVID-19 has dealt everyone a difficult Advertising Contact The Cowl with advertising requests and states in the weeks leading up to the start of hand. We must grant each other patience and questions at [email protected] or, if necessary, via telephone at 401-865-2214. Visit www.thecowl. the semester, so the College wanted to make understanding, and realize that it is not the com/advertise for rates, publication dates, and other information about advertising with The Cowl. certain that all rooms were clean before responsibility of one person or department to We reserve the right to decline any advertisement at any time for any reason. We reserve the right to label allowing permanent residents to move in. keep our campus safe. an advertisement with the word “Advertisement” The “Returning Student Fall Move-In’’ With in-person classes resuming this week, when, in our judgment, this action is necessary to clearly distinguish between editorial material and section of the College’s website explained it is imperative to ensure that we are taking advertising. that the move-in date for residents of these the actions necessary to protect ourselves and Subscriptions Subscription rate for a weekly issue by mail buildings would be pushed back two the people around us. Wipe down your area is $100 per year. Send payment to The Cowl, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence, R.I. 02918; make weeks: “This delay is to make room for before and after sitting down. Keep your mask checks payable to The Cowl. Student subscription is included in tuition fee; issues are available around quarantining students from international on for the entire duration of class. Do not come campus on Thursday nights. locations and hot spot states. . .This to class if you are experiencing any symptoms. will allow time for these halls to be fully It is clear that COVID-19 has introduced cleaned, disinfected, and prepared for their PHOTO COURTESY OF GRADLE TOUR new dangers and worries to our campus The Cowl is a proud move in.” this semester. As such, it has never been more member of the Associated Unfortunately, however, upon arrival, some students important to take safety into our own hands by doing our Collegiate Press. discovered that their rooms were not as clean as they part to look out for the health and safety of ourselves and were expecting. Francesca Lorenzini ’22, a resident of our fellow members of the Friar family. Page 9 Photography October 15, 2020 The stress of midterms has us dreaming of jetting off to our favorite destinations for some much needed rest and relaxation.

LEFT: The Pantheon in Rome, Italy was formerly a Roman temple but is now a Catholic church. BELOW: The Nyhavn is located in Copenhagen, Denmark. This iconic landmark is known for the brightly colored townhouses, bars, and cafes that line the canal.

AISLINN HOOVER ’21/ THE COWL

SAMANTHA BUTTITA ’23/ THE COWL BRIANNA COLLETTI ’21/ THE COWL ABOVE: If this scene is giving you Mamma Mia vibes, then take it as BELOW: The best way to see the snowy mountain a sign to channel your inner Donna Sheridan, pack your bags, and peaks of Interlaken, Switzerland is by skydiving head to Greece for more sunsets and waterfront views. or kayaking on Lake Brienz.

Photos compiled by Brianna Colletti ’21, Photography Editor AISLINN HOOVER ’21/ THE COWL Arts & Entertainment Page 10 October 15, 2020 Hungry at Home: How to Use Your PC Cash A Deeper Look into Local Providence Delivery Options

by Dave Argento ’21 options for those barred from dining halls and Special” or the “Three Don Deal.” The Bada Bing is A&E Staff grocery stores. With three delivery choices to use the perfect value play with 20 wings, a large cheese FOOD the PC Cash on, the menus of Big Tony’s Pizzeria, pizza, and a 2-liter of soda for $26.99. The “Three Golden Crust Pizza, and Providence Burger Bar Don Deal” goes heavier on the cheese with three full have become increasingly familiar. Weeks of size medium cheese pizzas for $19.99. Big Tony’s The stay-at-home orders Providence College ordering out nightly have revealed some key tips also offers some healthier options in their dinner administration issued to off-campus students to getting the most out of your $30 allowance. plates and sub sandwiches. Honorable mentions completely shifted everything that daily life entails. Big Tony’s has been one of the go-to late night must go to the calzones that can feed a small village Considering the new circumstances, hundreds of delivery options for many years as its extensive for roughly $12-15 and leave you smiling for days. students began to question where their next meals menu always has something to treat a late-night When pizza choices are brought up at any would come from. The option to have a $30 per craving. The clear move for anyone that can eat hangout, the age-old Big Tony’s and Golden Crust day allowance of PC Cash presented more eating their fair share of ’za has to be either the “Bada Bing debate is more than likely to get some passionate pizza-lovers steaming. With Golden Crust’s prime real estate on Oakland Avenue, off-campus students know the lip-licking smiley face logo anywhere. Although stumbling students cannot make the trek in person, this delivery option shows promise with its prime specialty pizzas and economical side orders. The pizza specials, all within the $10-20 price range, offer great sizing options for all appetite levels. It is hard to resist a side order of garlic cheesy bread with marinara sauce for just an additional $4.45. Golden Crust matches up well with Big Tony’s on the value scale, so the decision ends up being where your preferences lie on the pizza scale. The latest addition to the PC Cash potentials was the sleek Providence Burger Bar (PBB). When you have eaten far more pizza than your parents would ever condone, the wide variety of options at PBB just hit the spot. The go-to play here is ordering a burger meal for dinner and any other meal that catches your eye for tomorrow’s lunch. The “PBB All The Way” and “Lone Star State” burgers are standouts with their sweet sauces and savory beef patties. The biggest surprise you will find at PBB is just how good the Mexican options are. For an American burger bar, the quesadillas at the $8-9 price range will pleasantly surprise anyone GRAPHIC BY SARA CONWAY ‘21/THE COWL looking for a change of pace from the classics. Providence Burger Bar, Big Tony’s Pizzeria, and Golden Crust Pizza all take PC Cash and deliver to campus. Stay safe and happy eating! Artists Adapt Concerts to the COVID-19 Context Harnessing Creativity through Drive-ins, Live Streams his show in Times Square in the ’90s, and received much attention, so by Nikki Idelson ’22 he’s [Garth Brooks] never had 350,000 much so, that they will be holding A&E Staff people show in concert before, another drive-in concert on Oct. making it a massive success. Same 23 and 24 in Chicago, IL. They had MUSIC with Blake Shelton and Metallica.” very strict protocols in place, such These drive-in concerts have offered as having to stay in one’s car unless Drive-in movie theaters have people a taste of what it was like to going to the bathroom or sitting in always been a beloved American attend concerts pre-COVID-19— the trunk, as well as the requirement pastime to experience a favorite minus the huge mosh pits, of course. of social distancing and wearing movie during the warm summer However, these drive-in concerts masks, with strict security in place. months. Recently, drive-ins have have also received some backlash. Another popular technique of undergone a resurgence, one that has This is mainly due to The media delivery that artists have not necessarily been solely for the Chainsmokers’ live drive-in concert been utilizing in order to offer some movie-watching experience. Artists that was held in the Hamptons in semblance of a concert experience such as Chelsea Cutler, Quinn XCII, late July. CNN reported that some of is live streams. These live streams the Beach Boys, Keith Urban, and the issues with this concert included have typically been through social many more have utilized drive-in “thousands of people in close media, such as House Party, Youtube, movie theaters to hold concerts safely proximity, out of their vehicles, a VIP Livexlive, Instagram, and many PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY during the COVID-19 pandemic. area where there was no pretense of artists’ individual websites. Several a rehearsal space outside Nashville.” According to Forbes, in several a vehicle, and generally not adhering artists have turned to this tool, Artists and large live streaming states such as Nebraska, Wisconsin, to social distancing guidelines.” The such as Billie Eilish, Avril Lavigne, companies have also turned to Washington, North Carolina, Illinois, security hardly enforced the social and Machine Gun Kelly. Even the hosting live stream music festivals. and West Virginia, “drive-ins are distancing guidelines, mainly due to Metropolitan Opera House has turned These have gained much attraction popping up like daisies.” Some artists the fact that hundreds of individuals to live streaming. Many of these live as music festivals have been a long- are performing live in-person, while were in attendance, resulting in the streams are free of charge, while loved tradition for many individuals. others are pre-recording their concerts. concert being difficult to manage. bigger artists are charging a small Although live streaming and drive- For many artists, drive-in Despite this, several artists who fee. According to the New York Times, in concerts are not ideal for those concerts have garnered their have performed live drive-in concerts in order to help popularize these live who are avid concert and music- highest attendance. Examples of have had no issue. Chelsea Cutler streams, artists have had to invent festival-goers, this has become the this unexpected popularity have and Quinn XCII, who are currently new and exciting ways to present new normal for the time being. If been seen with Garth Brooks, Blake performing together, recently had music. For instance, Brad Paisley tried you are itching to see your favorite Shelton, and Metallica, who all had live drive-in concerts in Charlotte, to turn his live stream into more of a artist in concert, a live stream or pre-recorded drive-in concerts. WIS NC, and Columbus, OH. The drive-in pre-COVID experience by performing drive-in concert is your safest, and News 10 reported that “other than concerts were unbelievably popular “his full stage show at the Steel Mill, only, bet for the foreseeable future. October 15, 2020 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Cowl 11 American Gothic: Netflix’s The Devil All the Time How Two Small Towns Reveal the Evil Capabilities of Man towns in the post-World War II United by Madison Palmieri ’22 States. The trials and tribulations of A&E Staff the Russell family intersect with the FILM sadistic follies of a criminal couple, an unholy preacher, a crooked sheriff, and a host of other sinners. One of the year’s most-anticipated Any and all characters with any films, The Devil All the Time, premiered semblance of innocence are debased in select theaters on Friday, Sept. and sacrificed in a chilling portrait of 11 to positive reviews before human evil and religious hypocrisy. debuting on Netflix the following Notably, the movie boasts an all-star Wednesday and reigning atop the cast: Tom Holland stars as the tragically streaming service’s Top 10 list. corrupted Arvin Russell, Robert The movie is based on the 2011 horror Pattinson plays the wickedly unpious PHOTO COURTESY OF GLEN WILSON/NETFLIX © 2020 novel of the same name by Donald Revered Preston Teagardin, Bill The story of generational evil begins with Willard Russell and his son Arvin in Meade, Ohio. Ray Pollock, who narrates the film. Skarsgård features as the maddened intense and, at times, disturbing. of a short story about the American His words guide a dark, grotesque war veteran Willard Russell, Sebastian Multiple characters are killed in South by Flannery O’Connor, tale of the twisted, tormented souls Stan stars as the cunning, vengeance- dramatic fashion and some figures observing that in the film, “little who inhabit two southern-midwest seeking Deputy Lee Bodecker, and commit violent acts. Although rises but everything must converge.” Harry Melling plays the charismatic included for dramatic effect and, Dargis also made note of the lack of preacher-turned-madman Roy Laferty. perhaps, sheer shock value, they can be racial diversity in the movie, opining As the title implies, the film is a bit too much for a viewer to handle, that the director, Antonio Campos, largely concerned with the nature of so it would be wise for those curious “is interested in Arvin’s world or, sin and evil. However, its imagery about the film to read warnings about specifically, its cruelties, but he is profoundly Christian, with a potential triggers before viewing it. demonstrates no real curiosity about soundtrack of hymns, a plethora The movie has received mostly it or its inhabitants. . .as a result all of of pivotal scenes set in churches, positive ratings and reviews, although the pain and anguish, all the drama and a recurring motif of the cross. it does not appear to be the runaway and generational trauma, is experienced Throughout the film, all of these hit that many viewers anticipated only by white people, one of the few elements are juxtaposed with some it would be. It received a 64% score directorial choices here of actual note.” form of evil, whether it be in word from Rotten Tomatoes as well as a 54% Overall, The Devil All the Time or deed, to convey a deeply-rooted score from Metacritic, in reviews that is an intriguing thriller that may false piety and religious hypocrisy. largely acknowledged cast members’ interest those fascinated by human Although not a new idea, the movie’s stellar performances, but criticized its nature or religious hypocrisy, but presentation of this theme is artistically thematic and character development. it is also an imperfectly-delivered PHOTO COURTESY OF ESQUIRE Tom Holland and Robert Pattinson hold major roles rendered and thought-provoking. For instance, New York Times critic tale with excessive and, at times, as a grown-up Arvin and Rev. Preston Teagardin. However, the film is also quite Manohla Dargis referenced the title unnecessary horror and suffering. A Show for Civic Duty: Whose Vote Counts, Explained Insight into the Fight to Vote, Political Corruption

by Grace Whitman ’22 details the different systems that keep Americans right to vote is extremely important to our democracy. A&E Staff away from the polls, strengthen some votes Among other people interviewed in this TELEVISION over others, and favor money over constituents. series are Desmond Meade, an advocate and Narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio, Selena ex-convict who lobbied to overturn laws that Gomez, and John Legend, Whose Vote did not allow former felons to vote in Florida; In 1776, 56 men signed a document stating Counts lays out the importance of voting Stacey Abrams, voting rights activist and that “All men are created equal,” but in reality, and why your individual vote matters. former minority leader of the Georgia House of they have not always been treated as such when Featured throughout the three-episode series are Representatives; and Arnold Schwarzenegger, it comes to voting. In terms of voting, being able prominent political figures including Alexandria former Republican Governor of California. to express your opinion at the ballot box has Ocasio-Cortez, U.S. Representative for New York›s The first episode, titled “The Right to Vote,” not always been a right, but rather a privilege. 14th congressional district, and John Kasich, explains that over the past roughly 250 years, Almost half of eligible voters did not cast a former Ohio governor and candidate for the different groups have had to fight for their right ballot in the 2016 general election. People who do 2016 Republican Party presidential nomination. to vote. Even with the passage of the Native not vote leave political results to chance. Vox’s new Although they have polarizing opinions on policies, American Citizenship Act and the 15th, 19th, and Netflix special series Whose Vote Counts, Explained both Ocasio-Cortez and Kasich strongly agree that the 26th Amendments, legislators still create laws to make it more difficult for marginalized populations to actually cast a vote. This episode encourages people to vote with a strong sense of urgency. The second episode, titled “Can You Buy an Election?” breaks down the dark money in politics and the impact that corporations, super political action committees (PACs), and political nonprofits can have in the election process. The final episode, “Whose Vote Counts,” tackles topics including the practice of gerrymandering and the electoral college. Lately, the government has been controlled by people whom most Americans have voted against. In 2012, Republicans received 47.1% of the national popular vote but 53.7% of the seats in the House of Representatives. Additionally, President Donald Trump received about 2.9 million fewer votes nationwide than did Hillary Clinton in 2016. Although there are countless flaws in the American democratic system, the right to vote allows people to voice their opinions and to send a message to the people at the top. Whether you are a progressive or a conservative, there is a role for you in helping to shape our next generation. With the 2020 general election coming up on Nov. 3, vote early, request an absentee ballot if necessary, and vote for the change that you want to see. Channel your dreams and passions to be PHOTO COURTESY OF NETFLIX The Netflix show discusses the journey of the vote in America, starting with the Declaration of Independence, signed 1776. an important voice for your community and country. 12 The Cowl ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT October 15, 2020 21 Savage and Metro Boomin Return with Savage Mode II Recruit Morgan Freeman for Charting Genre-Fluid Album

by Daniel O’Neill ’21 frequently delve into deep, ominous, A&E Staff and sometimes traumatic topics. On this most recent album, however, MUSIC he created beats that dip slightly into other genres. The opening 21 Savage, in collaboration with tracks feature the normal intense the producer Metro Boomin, has beats that Metro Boomin is known officially released his latest album, for. Later on in the album, songs Savage Mode II. Earlier in the week like “Said N Done” reflect sounds of Sept. 28, the duo announced and melodies found in R&B tracks. the arrival of their album, which Critics have come out and noted officially released on Oct. 2. There are that the tracks on the album all sound many featured artists on the album, similar. This is because many of the including Young Thug, Drake, songs are extremely bass heavy. and Young Nudy. This is the first Recently, 21 Savage has decided to album that 21 Savage has released create more cohesive albums. This since the Grammy-nominated I Am is bound to make the majority of > I Was released on Dec. 21, 2018. the songs sound similar, whether This album was the first creation musically or purely thematically. by 21 Savage and Metro Boomin While the first half of Savage Mode as a pair since Savage Mode in 2016 II sounded relatively similar to and Without Warning in 2017. The the duo’s past works together, the duo also worked together on a second half of the album ends up highly collaborative project, Not All bringing diversity to the entire

Heroes Wear Capes. The first track on PHOTO COURTESY OF GENIUS sound of the album. By making the their new album is a recording of 13 tracks from Savage Mode II are charting on the Billboard Hot 100. decision to create coherent albums, Morgan Freeman speaking. The song In recent years, Metro Boomin hop artists from the Atlanta area. an artist has no choice but to grow then quickly ends and transitions has positioned himself to stand out Typically, Boomin is praised for his in order to make new and interesting into “Runnin’” which is quickly in the music industry, specifically dedication to the specific beat types music. 21 Savage and Metro Boomin becoming a stand-out track for fans within the rap scene. He is known throughout entire projects. On 21 succeeded in this task, as the on the album. The combination of as one of the top producers for rap Savage’s breakout mixtape, Savage album shows growth and maturity the two artists is proving to have the music coming out of Atlanta. He Mode, Metro Boomin stuck to similar for the two superstars. Currently, potential of legendary success. This came onto the scene at the beginning beat types to keep the mixtape the album is trending upward, is the fourth successful collaboration of the 2010s, quickly making his consistent. His beats are known to be with music videos for “Runnin” between the hip-hop duo, debuting mark on and impacting the industry haunting and sometimes dark, as the and “My Dawg” propelling the at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. as he collaborated with other hip- artists who collaborate on his beats album forward into the limelight. Drew Barrymore Returns with A Drew Barrymore Show Celebrity Uses New Outlet to Express Gratitude, Kindness

celebrity interviews, giveaways, and games. lose sight and I never have lost sight of how lucky I by Grace O’Connor ’22 There are many underlying reasons for am.” She has the goal of making others around her A&E Staff Barrymore wanting to try something new with happy and looking at the bright side of everything TELEVISION this show, even though the odds may not have in life. Barrymore’s ability to follow through with been in her favor. She saw this show as an exciting this goal despite the current pandemic is admirable opportunity after filming the last episode of and speaks to her determination and ingenuity. Santa Clarita Diet. She entered a competitive and crowded daytime slot—Ellen Degeneres and Dr. Phil air around the same time. Barrymore stated it was important to challenge herself and to “turn every obstacle into opportunities,” which meant adapting the show to the COVID-19 era. Her drive and vision are what made this show happen in the current atmosphere. She strives to be her most authentic self and show off every aspect of her life. Barrymore said, “One thing we want to say on this show is I am who you think I am. I struggle, I fail and I think one of the most important things I want to teach my own kids and myself as I grow with them is that change is so important—change in the world, change in yourself. I am a self- examiner and I›ve never pretended to be anyone I›m not.” In this statement, Barrymore speaks PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW ON YOUTUBE to her authenticity and determination to put Drew Barrymore has had an outstanding career in meaning behind everything she does. She sees this Hollywood and has been a fan favorite for decades. show not only as a way to bring people together, She recently started her own talk show, The Drew but also to create new meaning in her own life. Barrymore Show. According to USA Today, “Her The beauty of Barrymore is her ability to unguardedness and verve are key ingredients” acknowledge the work the individuals do behind the for her show. With Barrymore’s gregarious and scenes. Even though it is called The Drew Barrymore eccentric personality, she welcomes each guest with Show, she claims that the show belongs to everyone. open arms and adds her own twist to the typical She sees herself as being a member of a team and talk show format. The guests that Barrymore has lets the people around her know that they play just welcomed are mostly close friends such as Reese as important a role as she does in creating the show. Witherspoon, who appeared during the premiere Barrymore frequently claims how lucky she is to week, and Adam Sandler. Her show is light-hearted have this opportunity and how she is appreciative and comical, and her authentic personality brings for those in her life who have pushed her. a different medium of entertainment. USA Today Barrymore expressed this gratitude, saying, “It›s discussed Barrymore’s unique down-to-earth vibe, crazy, I›ve never felt more humble and grateful in my saying that “Drew Barrymore is like everybody›s entire life than I do right now to be alive, to have two best friend. Or maybe that cool aunt.” Her charm kids that are healthy, to be amongst this crew and this and ability to make meaningful connections are team and getting this opportunity.” She continued, PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DREW BARRYMORE SHOW obvious in the show. The daytime series includes “I don›t know how I ended up here, but I›ll never Drew Barrymore brings her gentle, humorous personality to daytime television with her new talk show. Page 13 October 15, 2020 PortfolioProvidence College’s Home For Creative Writing Fall in Friartown by Taylor Rogers ’24 Portfolio Staff POETRY

A rainbow of colors fall from the sky, Invading every inch of Slavin’s grass field. Students aimlessly walk throughout campus, Wondering when the current lockdown will yield.

As the rainbow falls, the wind begins to blow, Persuading people to take out their sweaters. With pumpkin spice coffees in hand, students rush to class, Hoping that soon, everything will be better.

The rainbow of leaves fly, Their orange, red, and yellow hues flee into students’ dorm rooms. Amazed, they wistfully look out their windows, Knowing that soon, fall and her beauty will begin to bloom.

More leaves fall from the trees, their color reminding students That, yes, fall has finally appeared. Excitedly, students begin to buy Halloween candy, Snacking away and hoping Halloween this year isn’t weird.

The leaves soon turn into piles, These clumps, the same size as the stacks of notes on students' desks. As the students begin to work, the piles begin to shrink, And they find themselves looking for something to cure their feelings of unrest.

More days pass by and the leaf clumps grow, Beginning their invasion of PC’s grassy fields. Meanwhile, the students invest themselves in fall activities, Ready to see what this fall will yield.

Giggles erupt as students jump into leaf piles, Their inner child letting worry turn to glee. With grins on hidden under their masks, students play, And the atmosphere around Providence feels more carefree.

The piles of leaves grow and grow, Matching the rate of people’s smiles and new friends. While the leaves die around them, the students still have hope, Knowing that like the seasons, this pandemic is sure to end.

BRIANNA COLLETTI '21/THE COWL 14 The Cowl PORTFOLIO October 15, 2020 Dear You, Part Two by Kate Ward ’23 Portfolio Staff CREATIVE NONFICTION

Dear Kate, I wrote to you last year and told you everything that had happened so far in your freshman year at Providence College; however, I didn’t tell you how it ended because no one saw it coming. In March, we were sent home for spring break. COVID-19 was looming but no one thought it would hit nearly as hard as it did. Our break got extended to April, but then school shut down and classes swiftly switched to online. An abrupt end to such an electric first year; emotions ran high and a lot of the time you searched for answers no one had. You will make it through. Sure, there will be a lot of headaches and tears shed, but in the end, you do make it through the minefield. Grocery stores ran out of food and often you were eating whatever was available, city people flocked to the island and, soon, your normally quiet neighborhood was a small city of its own. In the midst of all this chaos, you and your family grew closer to your next door neighbors and their kids. Each evening at around five, the kids would come out and play in the backyard, you and Mom would sit on the back porch and listen to the pattering of feet and the screams of childhood happening just beyond the hedge. There are a lot of Zoom happy hours and awkward silences when someone asks what you’ve been up to because the answer is always, “class online and staying inside, just like you.” Soon, the happy hours fizzle out as you and everyone else accept the new reality of Governor Cuomo’s daily brief: wearing face masks, social distancing, and living in “unprecedented times.” Over the summer you work at a horse camp. Spoiler alert: it’s awful. The summer never truly began as you were kept inside since March, so it all feels the same, like you’re stuck in an endless time loop. One good thing is you take up painting and it helps keep you grounded and feeling okay. You also make some new work friends and end up writing a lot of letters to your friend in the United States Marine Corps boot camp. You end up taking astronomy online to finally get your physics credit and, turns out, it’s really fun and your professor is awesome. Summer comes to a close and you pack all your stuff for your sophomore year at PC. You’re living in suites this year and all your roommates seem great. Masks are mandatory and so is social distancing, but the majority of your classes are in-person, which is definitely a benefit, and it eliminates the learning curve of having to be on Zoom. Of course, as the weeks begin to pass, people begin to be more bold with their actions and throw caution to the wind. Oh, and that study abroad trip you were looking forward to in the spring—that got canceled. In the past week things have gotten really bad: off-campus housing has been placed in quarantine, cases have skyrocketed, and classes have moved online. I have to cut this letter short because I have to go do my Civ reading, good luck with that by the way. Sincerely, Kate

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEXELS.COM AND SARAH MCLAUGHLIN '23 Glass Doll by Grace O'Connor ’22 Portfolio Staff

POETRY

I was a glass doll stuck to a white shelf People would step back and admire, but comment on my silence I was fragile, and kept on a shelf high above from all the danger that crept below Every crack in me was patched and all the dust cleared off I was pushed far away from the edge In case I'd fall and break into a million pieces on the floor that eyed me from below I faded into the background until I caught one's eye They watched me with intent, then would look away As my silence would lead them to lose their intrigue Their slow glance away felt like a stab in my delicate chest The warmth I received came from sunlight that would shine on me briefly Bringing out the color in my eyes, quickly fading away To show the hollowness that lies behind I sit on the shelf still, watching life play out before my eyes Until I am replaced, I long to feel the excitement of life below

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PIXABAY.COM October 15, 2020 PORTFOLIO The Cowl 15 Seasons by Sarah Heavren ’21 Portfolio Staff POETRY

A rainbow of colors A gentle breeze Tickling the branches Waving at me.

Little squirrels scampering Across the grass The smell of the season Coming to pass.

Cloudless, deep blue skies The freshest air Crisp as a tart apple Grown with true care.

Winter is drawing near With a bleak hue. But winter brings changes That will change too.

In moments of sheer doubt, Moments of pain, Just simply remember Seasons will change.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEXELS.COM A City to Long for by Mariela Flores ’23 Portfolio Staff FICTION

There is a distinct despite her failing feet. dissipates the moment the next time I will smell of freshly made She carries her stories she steps on her see mi familia. The sweet bread that clings in each callous and as motherland. She relaxes next time I will allow to the air. All of the she walks, I can hear the here in a way she cannot myself to be excited colors in the world seem thump, thump, thump, back home; in a place about a holiday I can to be culminating here, every step landing on where we are other, here never afford. in a faraway land I feel brick roads that are ours. we are familia. The promise of a more at home in than I long for Navidad and Mi Guate linda, I soundless Christmas home. My Spanish is the fireworks that lined dream of her and it’s dares to make me less impressive here the streets, celebrating like a song. cry. I wonder and than it is amongst my the birth of Jesus and A soft marimba I ache about when monolingual peers, the promise of a new playing in the distance I will get to see mi yet, my bones ache for and better year. The dirt on a lively night. The Guate linda again. the humidity-lacking from the roads tucks stars displayed on a It has been seven heat that turns my itself into my fingernails, cloudless sky hum along years and the ache paler skin a golden desperate for me to take to the beat. I dance, is dull now, but my brown, reminding me part of it with me, I claw hoping to be a part of fears are stronger as of the Mayan blood that back at the earth as I, something so beautiful, I am beginning to courses through my too, am desperate. planting my rhythm into forget her and the veins. My mother glows here the soil that sprouted words to her song. Mi Guate linda, I in an eerily familiar my mother. I hope to dream of her and it’s like way. She comes back as leave behind seeds of a song. a stranger who knows myself that will bloom I think of my abuelita, their secrets well. I can here one day. how she walks every see how the tension I am cold on the plane morning to the market rooted on her shoulders ride home, unaware of

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY ELIZABETH MCGINN '21 16 The Cowl PORTFOLIO October 15, 2020 Miscellaneous Drawer by Marelle Hipolito ’22 Portfolio Staff POETRY

Wet sand on my pillow from falling asleep at the beach Crumbs on the table from when we were too hungry to sleep Bent bottle caps strewn to every corner of the room Only thing missing is any trace of you

I always thought that after London, Paris, and Rome You would somehow find your way back home But the only thing that has come back is the cool swift of the breeze Rolling in waves through the curtains, singing the chimes of keys

Months went by with no word, no call I could no longer afford risking it all So I stuff you in the dark of my miscellaneous drawer Hidden between broken hearts and abandoned daughters

And there you stayed for one thousand days As the cabinet rotted and gave with age In the night sorrows I dragged it to the side of the road But with the morning light I found myself running, because I couldn’t let go

I rummaged through my miscellaneous drawer Passed the broken hearts and three abandoned daughters Found you still alive with your heart softly beating Just like that October when we fell asleep on the beach

PHOTO COURTESTY OF PEXELS.COM Writing in Stealth by Sam Ward ’21 Portfolio Staff POETRY

Last gen not with it, Sick blood so guilty. Ten years no limits We all already lost. Now just— Last chance reaping what we Sow but gotta do it, no jokes, Abandon sweetness, Immature when close. It’s the consequence, Rock the boat no row, Of genes and failing images Floating forward, just winded. Nobody wants to tell you what Exhaustion means praying for remission. The worst case really is. These flavors frequent the frequency Is it self pity or stealth writing? Painting palettes, the decency Truth hides behind stanzas, Is a face you wear. Lies directly on lines, While the sky rains sucrose Diatribes on lives None of us care. Lost. Hide behind pronouns but

I don't write to be heard. I just write and share secrets.

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY ELIZABETH MCGINN '21 October 15, 2020 PORTFOLIO The Cowl 17

Today Tiffany & by Toni Rendon ’24 Earl Portfolio Staff Making PC an emotionally stable POETRY place one letter at a time

Today I’m numb Dear Tiff & Earl, Out of touch with my emotions Dreaming of only nightmares I’ve had four Halloween And half-filled oceans costumes picked out for the past year. Now that Today I got up Halloween is cancelled, Walked around my dream Looking for you but only found what should I do? The other half of me Sincerely, Today we talked Incapable of Returning He begged to be let in Packages to Amazon So, I gave up fighting And said, “Thank you,” As he crept back in Dear Clearly Has Never Today I woke up Utilized the Convenience A wolf in sheep’s skin Not feeling like me of Dropping Things off at And not all the way him the UPS Store,

Today I’m complete Might as well start Finally, free. integrating these costumes into your regular wardrobe. If some of them come with a mask, then that’s even better given the present circumstances. Professors PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEXELS.COM should start giving style points for Zoom classes. Some people aren’t even putting in the effort to put on a pair of pants, Listomania* but you’d be blowing them out of the water by Things that are better to watch than the wearing a costume. These presidential debate: are the days for fashion experiments.

• Paint drying Trendingly, • Your life flashing before your eyes • “As Seen On TV” ads Tiff • Seventh-graders fighting on the playground during recess Dear I.O.R.P.T.A., • ASPCA commercials My address is 1 • DVD bouncing loading screen Cunningham Square, • A turtle crossing the road Providence, RI, 02918. I am in need of a spooky • PC COVID-19 cases dashboard costume and it seems like • Thursday Night Football you have one to spare. • PC basketball losing to URI My plans: sit on the couch and eat as much chocolate • Zoom class recordings as I can. Actually, that is • Your parents being intimate what I do on a normal Halloween anyways. You • The elderly texting with their index fingers might consider doing the • Your professor struggling to share their screen on same. Zoom • Green Book Spookily, Earl *Listomania and Tiffany & Earl are both satirical pieces that do not reflect the views of Providence College orThe Cowl. Page 18 Sports October 15, 2020 The State of PC Athletics Driscoll Speaks on the Pandemic’s Long-Lasting Ramifications

our young men and women of color Driscoll were treated,” disclosed Driscoll. “It Continued from front page opened my eyes to what we needed to try to do if we were going to be a The athletic department has leader in this world, and one of those certainly shown resilience as a whole things was that we needed to hire since those fateful March days. more men and women of color.” Driscoll credits a strong working The department carried out this relationship between him, the vision, hiring top-notch candidates coaches, and the entire athletics staff such as Nick Sailor, the director of as the reason for their success in training and education for Diversity, overcoming a myriad of obstacles in Equity and Inclusion. In their five- recent months. Communication too, year strategic plan, they also have says Driscoll, is key. guidelines in place “almost like “I feel as connected as I’ve ever felt the Rooney Rule in the NFL,” said to my staff. Although I’m not seeing Driscoll. “Where that in every them in person, I’m seeing them position we hire for we are going to literally everyday through Zoom,” he consciously turn over every stone to reflected. “I call, I text, I’ve engaged try and find men and women of color, with them consistently during this from diverse backgrounds, to make entire time frame. And more than our organization better.” just X’s and O’s, [I ask] how’s your Driscoll also spoke to the efforts of family? How’s your children? How Ivan Thomas, an assistant coach on are you coping? How’s your health? the men’s basketball staff. Thomas Really focusing on the higher, more is among the founding members of important things and trying to Coaches for Action, a coalition of all put it into context. Competition is 21 Black men’s basketball assistant important, but do you know what’s coaches in the Big East. “I was able to bring Ivan and the other coaches in more important? Your health and PHOTO COURTESY OF PC ATHLETICS mental well-being.” In April, Driscoll was honored as a “transformational leader” while receiving the 2020 Builders’ front of the ADs of the Big East and Although Driscoll and the rest Award. The award is given out to only one Divison I athletic director annually. they made an amazing presentation,” of the athletics staff have made the stated Driscoll. “They proposed that best of a difficult situation, that is to take the court and the rink this season, according to Driscoll, “unless we wear Black Lives Matter patches not to say that everything is perfect. winter, as PC plans on going ahead in the new year the state opens up on our jerseys, and also spoke about Recruiting new athletes has been with both its hockey and basketball the Dunk and they allow people to really focusing on getting the [student- particularly difficult during these seasons. With an established testing come in. Then we’ll make a decision athlete] vote out, and then raising times. The NCAA instituted a ban infrastructure now in place and the on whether we can get enough people some money for first-generation on in-person recruiting since the appropriate alterations being made to down there to make it worth our while student of color scholarships.” start of the pandemic, which barred the schedules, Friar fans can plan on to actually rent the building.” The proposal was universally prospective student-athletes from watching PC athletics for the first time The resumption of sports this passed. “I’m really proud and happy visiting campuses. since March. winter will certainly be a welcome about that,” said Driscoll. “But we For PC, the ban seems to hit “We’re looking at Nov. 20 for sight for a campus that has gone still have a long way to go.” especially hard. For many prospective the start date for hockey. They’re without athletics for seven months. athletes, it is the visit to campus that planning on 24 games right now,” Sports and the comradery that they “My message is really just: really sells them on Friartown. “When said Driscoll. “[For men’s basketball] bring is a key part of the culture at PC. they walk on the campus and are able we’re still contemplating during Without them, campus has certainly stay strong, stay together, to feel the vibe between people, and winter break, from Dec. 30 until late felt far less alive. this will pass, and we’ll then you see our beautiful facilities January, maybe a possible bubble at “Yeah, it just feels empty,” said and academic buildings…I think Mohegan Sun and/or Omaha. We’ve Driscoll. “I was talking to my wife be back watching games people’s perceptions change pretty even talked about Disney, where the the other day, this is my 46th year hopefully in the very near radically once we get people here, NBA teams have played, to play five in college athletics…and I’ve never so I think that’s hurt us a little bit,” or six games.” experienced anything like this; it’s future. ” lamented Driscoll. “But with people Men’s basketball will join the like taking a piece of your entire being like coach Cooley, Nate Leaman, and women’s basketball team in hosting away for me personally. I can imagine To conclude, Driscoll spoke Chris Gabrielli, people who are really their home games at Alumni Hall. it’s the same for every student that on the recent events surrounding good at communication…I still think The men’s team usually hosts their plays and a lot of the fans. These are campus, emphasizing the importance we’ve been able to sign some talented games in downtown Providence at the really unusual and difficult times of the safety protocols while also people.” Dunkin’ Donuts Center. Games will because I think we as a culture need sympathizing with the students who Some of those recruits will be able be at Alumni for the duration of the to be together in groups to celebrate have felt the impact of the recent the good things or the struggles. lockdown. “I just wanted to thank all There’s something about being in a of our students for their hard work,” sold-out arena that is so inspiring and said Driscoll. “This is not easy work uplifting. I think it adds to the quality and a lot of times young people get of our lives, win or lose.” the blame for this stuff, and it’s really Besides a pandemic, 2020 has also not their fault. This is an epidemic featured one of the largest civil rights that affects us all. So, my message is movements since the 1960s. Black really just: stay strong, stay together, Lives Matter protests have brought the this will pass, and we’ll be back systemic inequality in our nation to watching games hopefully in the very the forefront of the national dialogue. near future.” Driscoll is outspoken on the change Friar fans certainly hope all goes that must occur in the U.S., just as is according to plan, as the arrival of he outspoken on the change that must basketball and hockey will be a major be enacted on the PC campus. boost to a campus that has seen most Three years ago, Driscoll sat down of its events shut down. For Driscoll with the women’s basketball coaching and the entire athletics department, staff. He recalls them “hitting him their arrival will be a marker of in between the eyes” about how the months of hard work paying off. athletics department and school in And for Driscoll himself, it will general was not doing the best it probably provide some sense of PHOTO COURTESY OF PC ATHLETICS could do for its BIPOC students and normalcy for the first time since that As of now, the men’s basketball team will open up their home schedule on campus at Mullaney staff. “They shared stories that were fateful March bus ride to New York Gymnasium in Alumni Hall (pictured above). very disturbing to me, about how City. October 15, 2020 SPORTS The Cowl 19 Providence College Investigates: Who Will Win the World Series? Atlanta Braves Los Angeles Dodgers

In a season that seemed destined The overall composition of the Braves The Los Angeles Dodgers entered this he posted a 3-1 regular season record with to fail, Major League Baseball (MLB) squad is perfect for a postseason run. In season feeling like they had an easy path a 2.57 earned run average. The bullpen thankfully got its act together and is Freeman they have a veteran leader who to the 2020 World Series. After losing in also contains the likes of Joe Kelly, Blake now at the final stretch of the postseason. has been with the team for over a decade the National League Division Series last Treinen, Brusdar Graterol and Kenley The National League Championship . They have an ace in Max Fried who can season to the Washington Nationals, Jansen, one of the stronger closers in the Series (NLCS) is set between the Los single-handedly win a game. The rest of the Dodgers were left with a sour taste league. While it is not the best bullpen in Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves. the rotation is full of young pitchers who in their mouths. It was a tough loss to baseball, it is certainly capable of getting The American League Championship are gaining confidence at the perfect time. take after losing the previous two World the job done. Combine that with some Series (ALCS) will feature the Houston And the lineup is composed of players Series. Somehow, manager Dave Roberts elite starters and arguably one of the best Astros and the Tampa Bay Rays. While who embrace the spotlight while adding could not find a way to turn an already lineups in baseball, the Dodgers seem the Dodgers are favored to win and character and a winning culture to the elite club into world champions. But, destined for the championship. have won all five of their playoff games, dugout. This team will not back down with the help of president of baseball There is some cause for concern they run into an equally hot team in the against the Dodgers, nor will they back operations Andrew Friedman, L.A. was with Kershaw, however. The legendary Braves, who will knock off LA and go on down from whatever team they face in able to improve their roster further. pitcher was scratched from his game to win the World Series. the World Series. This past offseason, the Dodgers two start against the Atlanta Braves on The MLB playoffs, while having some The Braves have the advantage of traded Alex Verdugo, a talented, young Tuesday with back spasms. Getting him occasional upsets, have not produced having yet to play the Dodgers this outfielder, to the Red Sox for Mookie back and healthy will be key for Los any shocking results. The Braves season. Los Angeles only lost one series Betts, a former MVP and one of the Angeles moving forward. upsetting the Dodgers in the NLCS all year and will come into the NLCS best outfielders in baseball. Betts joined This experienced playoff club has will be the series that rocks the league. with confidence. But Atlanta will give an outfield that contains recent high- easily made it through the first two The team is peaking at the right time. them a challenge they have yet to see this profile signing A.J. Pollock and 2019 NL rounds of this extended playoffs, and While their pitching was subpar at times year, which could very well throw LA off MVP Cody Bellinger. That is not even now look to knock off the up-and- throughout the regular season, their their game. While the NLCS and ALCS, mentioning the rest of the lineup, which coming Braves in the NLCS. After that, rotation has found its rhythm in October, as well as the World Series, are all best- features Justin Turner, Corey Seager, all that stands between Los Angeles and producing four shutouts in their five of-seven series that theoretically would Enrique Hernandez, and Max Muncy. the championship is the Houston Astros, postseason games played. In 49 innings work in the favor of the “better team,” The Dodgers are a team that can hit both who lack in the pitching department, or this postseason, the Braves have shut out the Braves winning a game or two off the for power and for batting average in the inexperienced Tampa Bay Rays, who their opponents in 46 of them. bat could get the Dodgers discouraged. addition to their strong defensive play in have a lineup that pales in comparison to Atlanta has more than enough power Indeed, Atlanta has the roster to beat Los the field. the Dodgers. offensively to outscore anyone. From the Angeles and then go on to win the World While it may seem like most of the top to the bottom of the order, the Braves Series. Dodgers’ talent is on the offensive side, possess guys opposing pitchers should this is not the case. The Dodgers possess a fear. Ronald Acuña, Jr., Freddie Freeman, strong rotation featuring Walker Buehler, Adam Duvall, and Marcell Ozuna can all -Leo Hainline ’22 a budding young star with playoff -Joe Quirk ’23 knock one out of the park at any given Sports Staff experience, and Clayton Kershaw, one Sports Staff at-bat, and their supporting cast features of the best pitchers to ever play. Rookie almost no offensive liabilities. Dustin May is also pitching very well, as NFL Mid-Season Update COVID-19 Outbreaks Lead to Scheduling Fiascos

by Liam Tormey ’22 a successful playoff run. Head coach Sports Staff Sean McDermott has continually PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL given Buffalo a sound defense since coming from the Carolina Panthers as a defensive coordinator. It is now a couple weeks into the In the National Football National Football League (NFL) Conference (NFC), the Seattle season, and there have been both Seahawks and the Green Bay Packers surprises and concerns for many are at the top of the list for impressive teams in the league. teams thus far. Russell Wilson, who It goes without saying that has never received an MVP vote, has COVID-19 is going to be the biggest been at the top of his game, proving issue this season. Going into Week how he has become one of the best Four, the Pittsburgh Steelers were deep-ball throwers in the league. Not supposed to travel to Tennessee many people believed in the Packers to face the Titans, but, due to an before the season started, but Aaron outbreak of cases in the Titans camp, Rodgers has proven the doubters the game was rescheduled to Week wrong, giving his team one of the Seven. The Baltimore Ravens vs. best starts to the season. Pittsburgh Steelers game was moved The Atlanta Falcons and the to Week Eight. Both the Steelers Houston Texans have been the and Titans went into Week Four disappointments of the season. undefeated and have proven to be PHOTO COURTESY OF HANNAH FOSLIEN/ GETTY IMAGES Atlanta blew back-to-back leads playoff contenders. The Titans have had the largest COVID-19 outbreak so far, with at least 24 players and staff against the Dallas Cowboys and the The Kansas City Chiefs and New members testing positive over the last three weeks. Chicago Bears in games they looked England Patriots were supposed to certain to win. The Texans have face off on Oct. 4 but had to reschedule in the league. Surprisingly, the following more positive cases in had problems all over the board to a Monday night game after Chiefs are the first team ever to start New England. Newton’s arm and his after trading star receiver DeAndre Patriots quarterback Cam Newton 4-0 for four consecutive seasons. ability to run the ball have added a Hopkins. Both teams have now fired tested positive for COVID-19. With Their impressive display against new dimension to New England’s their coaches, Dan Quinn and Bill Newton in quarantine, Brian Hoyer the Ravens in Baltimore has many offense. And with Bill Belichick as O’Brien, after winless starts to the got the starting job. Hoyer played believing they have a good chance to the coach, anything is possible for season. a terrible first half before being repeat winning the Super Bowl. the Patriots this season. The unpredictability of this football replaced by second-year quarterback For the New England Patriots, Credit must be given to the other season mirrors the unpredictability Jarrett Stidham in the second half of Newton looks like he has found his undefeated teams in the American of 2020. Although there have been the game. new home. The Patriots hope to get Football Conference (AFC). The surprises, disappointments, and With both rosters at capacity, him back for their Week Six matchup Buffalo Bills are the leaders of the league-wide challenges, it has been the Chiefs and Patriots have been against the Denver Broncos, a game AFC East, and quarterback Josh exciting for fans just to have football two of the more impressive teams that was moved from Week Five Allen looks ready to lead his team to back on their televisions. 20 The Cowl SPORTS October 15, 2020 This Week Going Courtside with Cayleigh Griffin by Jack Belanger ’21 Sports Co-Editor pale in comparison to those at the sold-out arenas in Friar they travel to today. FORMER FRIARS Griffin moved on from New Jersey and got a job working for the Big East Digital Network as an Cayleigh Griffin ’14 can still recall the first on-air correspondent. After working her way up History time she ever spoke to Providence College legend in the company for two years, she felt that she had Doris Burke ’87, ‘92G, & ‘05Hon. It was during reached her peak and it was time to move onto her senior year at PC, and Griffin had every bigger endeavors: the NBA. Men’s Soccer: intention to break into the sports media industry During the summer of 2016, Griffin was after college. She reached out to Burke, not to searching for jobs when she turned on an NBA Oct. 15, 2011 vs. Seton Hall University, win ask for a job, but to make a connection, to show summer league game which happened to feature 6-1 Burke the work she completed during internships the San Antonio Spurs. Coincidentally, the team for media companies such as Fox Sports. After posted an opening for the position as the team’s all, what better opinion could you get than from sideline reporter that same day. Once again Burke The Friars dominated the Pirates as sophomore the first woman to become a full-time National was there to lend a hand for Griffin, as she was Greg Davis scored a career-high three goals to go Basketball Association (NBA) game analyst who one of several people who reached out to the along with freshman Marcos Ugarte’s two assists. has been working for ESPN since 1991? What Spurs on Griffin’s behalf. Griffin got was the start of a relationship that has Griffin was able to land an interview with the Oct. 15, 2014 at Georgetown University, win helped her launch her own career into the top of Spurs and fly down to San Antonio. Sure enough, the broadcasting industry. after a three-month application process, at age 23, 2-0 “She is so supportive of young people trying Griffin landed her first job for an NBA team. to get in the industry,” Griffin said of Burke. In the two years she worked for San Antonio, Thanks to seven saves by goalkeeper Keasel “Especially young females trying to break into the Griffin was able to work up close with stars such Broome ’15RS and a Mac Steeves ’18RS goal, the field. And to have a young female that also went as Tony Parker and Kawhi Leonard. Some of her Friars were able to pull off a massive upset of No. 3 to PC, she was really eager to talk to me.” favorite memories include working with Manu With all of the accomplishments Burke has Ginobili during his final season in the league Georgetown on the road. compiled over her storied broadcasting career, and getting to interview Patty Mills, one of her her lasting impact will be the path she paved for favorite players to interview. Women’s Soccer: women like Griffin to have opportunities for top- “[Mills] is one of the nicest people I have ever level broadcasting jobs. Griffin, herself, put in the met. He was always willing to do an interview. I Oct. 12, 2014 vs. Butler University, win 3-2 work before coming to PC to prepare for a career have been so fortunate to work with teams that in media. had players who were easy and respectful. They In high school, Griffin wrote for her local knew I had a job to do and they were willing to Catherine Zimmerman ’16 recorded her first career newspaper, covering high school sports whenever help.” hat trick as the Friars dispatched the Bulldogs in an she could while juggling competing in volleyball After completing two seasons with the Spurs, overtime thriller. and basketball at the same time. Even though PC Griffin spent a season working for the Cleveland lacked any sort of communication or journalism Cavaliers before settling into her current job with Oct. 15, 2017 vs. Georgetown University, win major, she grew up loving the College, as it is the Houston Rockets. She earned her first chance where her mother played basketball. Griffin knew to work baseball games as a fill-in reporter for 1-0 she would have to create her own opportunities the Houston Astros. Even with the two traveling when it came to finding internships and hands-on around the country every week, Griffin has been In their final regular season home game of the experiences. able to maintain a strong relationship with Burke. season, PC picked up a huge win against the No. 15 During her time at the College, Griffin would “I see her so often at games. It’s so cool to be Hoyas. An early Christina Klaum ’18 goal would be intern as a runner during Red Sox and Yankees working with her at games at the same time. I games for Fox Sports. She also interned for the all the Friars needed, as goalkeeper Shelby Hogan’s try to take tidbits from her in all aspects. I will local “Rhode Show” during her senior year and randomly call or text her and she will text right ’21RS five saves were enough to hold Georgetown for NBC Universal. Despite working for some back. She is so great.” scoreless. of the biggest networks in the country, Griffin Despite establishing respect from her peers, believed her “big-break” was when a station in Griffin admits there are times when people will Field Hockey: New Jersey contacted her to commentate for high doubt her knowledge of the game even though school volleyball and basketball. This provided she spends every day following the same team her with her first chance to broadcast games live. upclose. It is incidents like this which remind Oct. 13, 2019 vs. University of New Hampshire, “It was a really fluke thing that these people us that women still have to work harder than win 4-1 reached out to me. It was an unbelievable men just to earn the same level of respect from experience for me as a college student,” Griffin outsiders. Mary O’Reilly ’20 tallied a goal and an assist recalled. Griffin has learned to stay positive despite as the Friars won their eighth game of the season, It was there Griffin worked with Ed Cohen, who the detractors, though. She is quick to praise her would later go on to become the radio announcer defeating the Wildcats by a solid margin. colleagues who have been nothing but supportive for the New York Knicks and a colleague with and to compliment the players who make her job whom Griffin has continued to keep in touch. easier. While she may still be in the early stages Cross Country: Whenever the Knicks face a team that Griffin is of her career compared to her older counterparts, working for, the two reminisce about their time Griffin has proved that she has the talents to Oct. 19, 2013 at Wisconsin Adidas Invitational, together calling games in front of audiences that become a mainstay in the NBA for years to come. Women 3rd, Men 12th

Both the men’s and women’s cross country teams had successful races in Wisconsin. Three women finished in the top-10 including Emily Sisson ’14 who finished second. Shane Quinn ’15 was the top finisher for the men, coming in ninth place. Volleyball:

Oct. 13, 2017 vs. Xavier University, win 3-1

After losing the second set 18-25, PC recovered and went on to win the final two sets to take the match. Addison Root ’20 and Janae Alderson ’20 each recorded double-digit kills.

PHOTO COURTESY OF USA TODAY SPORTS Griffin ’14 currently resides in Houston where she takes her talent on the court to cover some of the league’s biggest stars including Russell Westbrook (pictured) and James Harden.