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October 30, 2020 The Recorder Volume 122 | Issue 4 Students Outraged By Centrals Disregard To Their Belongings

BY SAMANTHA BENDER NEWS EDITOR

I am very disappointed in how CCSU addressed everyone’s concerns,” Students looking to socialize on GWYNETH MCDONALD Seth North and Catharine Beecher GWYNETH MCDONALD Junior Emily Prizio, expressed about campus can utilize the tents on Residence Halls, have been “her experience with the move out process. Vance Lawn. designated specifically for student Many Central Connecticut students are exhibiting corona virus symptoms. just as outraged as Prizio at the way the university handled moving out the dorms Living On Campus In Quarantine following a student’s potential exposure to an individual with the corona virus during BY GWYNETH MCDONALD coming from out of state. confessed her frustration with Central’s Sutherland-Case said she found it athletics for having her come two weeks the spring 2020 semester. CONTRIBUTOR “funny” that she had to quarantine even early so they could begin practice, but then When the campus abruptly closed on though Canada’s cases are significantly changing the guidelines and pushing their March 12, resident students were informed s part of the safety of the community, lower in comparison to those of the United start by two weeks. they had to be moved out of their dorms Catharine Beecher Residence Hall States. She was released from Beecher on “They wanted us to be able to practice by 4 p.m. that day and due to the evolving has been designated as Central Aug. 24, at which point she was allowed to right when we got out, but that ended up urgency of the pandemic, they were given AConnecticut’s quarantine dorm. For some minimal details on when they’d be able to officially move into her selected room in changing because we are still in phase zero campus residential students, returning to Robert Vance Hall. for athletics,” Sutherland-Case said. “We return to retrieve their belongings. campus this fall meant quarantining on the According to Sutherland-Case, the haven’t been practicing or doing anything Following the campus’s evacuation, premise upon arrival. food during quarantine was repetitive in the athletic facilities for the past two President Dr. Zulma R. Toro informed In addition to showing proof of a and not particularly healthy. This was weeks, so they made us come here two students in an email that a FEMA- negative corona virus test result, students surprising to her given that most students weeks early just to sit here for another two certified, professional moving company, coming from states listed on the Center in the building were athletes. weeks not being able to practice.” Siracusa Moving & Storage, had been for Disease Control and Prevention’s “no- Another challenging aspect of her She admitted that the first few days hired to assist in packing up items in each travel list” are required to quarantine in two weeks was not being able to stay as were tough and lonely but she was thankful dorm and temporarily storing belongings Beecher Hall for an estimated 14 days. physically active as usual. Though each that she was permitted to spend time with in a secured location. On Aug. 10th, Claire Sutherland-Case, room holds only one person, the rooms are other students living in the building. Dr. Toro also included that GoPro a NCAA women’s basketball player and set up as doubles, providing limited space Senior engineering major Michael cameras would be used by the movers sophomore majoring in psychology major, to do the at-home workouts that her coach Baechle, a Vermont resident, had a similar to document the move out process in an drove to campus from her home in Ontario, had sent to her. experience to that of student athlete, effort to ensure that all items were safely Canada. Upon arrival, she quarantined in In addition to the space restriction, she Sutherland-Case, though he only spent one packed up and secured in their correct Beecher Hall, along with other students says it was hard to wake up in the morning night in quarantine. bins. who were predominantly student-athletes and find the motivation to workout. She CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 A Look Inside CCSU’s Corona Virus Tracking System Those who are placed in the “Yellow” or we’re not bringing them into that campus hall staff and in-season student athletes at BY ISABELLA CHAN “Red” will be monitored to decide if they community.” CCSU. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF will resume normal activities or be placed Claffey explained that the symptom Along with that, Sodexo employees If I said to you back in March we into quarantine or isolation. tracking is meant to be the first in one of receive separate testing on a weekly basis had someone that tested positive Chief Information Officer George many “layers” of preventing the spread from Griffin Health. [for corona virus], we would’ve said Claffey has become a familiar name for of COVID-19 on campus. Anyone who “It’s not always perfect but the goal is “‘let’s get in our car, we’re getting out of many as he emails the symptom survey to resides or intends to visit the premise, to have that occur before you even enter here!’ because we didn’t even know or the campus community. Like Cintorino, including university employees or visitors, campus,” Claffey said. understand the virus back then,” Chief Claffey is also a part of the university’s task must complete the survey prior to entry. “A lot of what our practice is to do Operations Officer Sal Cintorino said. Six force team for corona virus. this in layers. So we want to have multiple months later, Connecticut is seeing quite layers and when we have multiple layers, the opposite. you know, we’re helping to ensure that Already a month into the fall semester, if something does breakdown there’s Central Connecticut has been able to hopefully another layer that helped keep maintain an environment with a limited it up,” he continued. number of confirmed positive corona In the CCSU Fall 2020 Reopening virus cases. Despite this, the university Blueprint, it is noted that those who fail has one of the highest rates of new cases to comply with the university’s health being reported in the state, peaking at and safety protocols will be reprimanded 3.44 percent and currently resting at 2.31 based on the actions. percent. Cintorino advises those to call the These numbers are monitored daily ISABELLA CHAN COVID Hotline, (860) 832-3200, to report using a survey and testing through Griffin any compliance issues. The Blueprint Health. “The first part of that is the survey CSCU has also announced they will states, “a call to the COVID hotline will The daily symptom survey contains I send out every morning,” Claffey said. increase testing on residential college trigger the immediate deployment of two main questions based on one’s exposure “The goal here is to have people do students from 5-10 percent to 25 percent designated personnel who will investigate to the disease and their symptoms. If one that sort of ‘self-check’ before they get of residential students on a weekly basis. the matter, identify the status of the non- is in the “Green,” they may visit campus. into their cars or even walk out of their This consist of randomly testing 25 compliant individual and file a report.” dorms. And if they are not feeling good, percent of the resident students, residence CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 2 October 30, 2020 NEWS THE RECORDER THE RECORDER CCSU Cancels Spring Break For 2021 BY SAMANTHA BENDER NEWS EDITOR during its meeting on Sept. 2 regarding suit in cancelling spring break amid travel Student Center preparations for the spring 2021 semester. concerns throughout the pandemic. he Connecticut State Colleges In a memo from the provost, Dr. According to ABC News, the University 1615 Stanley Street and Universities (CSCU), in David Dauwalder, to deans, he wrote, of Michigan is among one of the latest New Britain, CT 06053 collaboration with the university “although we hope for a return to pre- universities to eliminate it, including Tpresidents, have determined that spring COVID normalcy for our operational fellow Big Ten universities like University 860.832.3744 break will be officially eliminated from the environment, we must plan for a spring of Wisconsin, Madison, Purdue University, spring 2021 semester. 2021 semester under conditions similar to Ohio State University and University of President Dr. Zulma R. Toro issued Fall 2020.” Iowa. editor@centralrecorder. a mass email to students explaining the In addition to eliminating spring break, Other higher education institutions, developing plans for next semester. the provost outlined that planning for the including the University of Tennessee, org “Some of you might believe that upcoming semester needs to include three the University of Florida, and Baylor losing out on spring break is unfair,” Dr. scenarios: HyFlex, fully remote and on- University, have taken a similar course in centralrecorder.org Toro stated in her email. “Quite frankly, ground. removing spring break from the spring the pandemic has caused a great deal of Alexandra Opoka, a senior nursing semester. disappointment for most of us, but we student at Central, was upset to hear about Shawn Savior, a Central senior, also the decision. stands by the decision to cancel spring Editor-in-Chief make the best of things and do all we can to protect ourselves and one another.” “Having it taken away took me back break at this point in time, though he Isabella Chan The spring semester will now begin one to the harsh reality that our senior year suggests CCSU may have eliminated it [email protected] week later than originally scheduled, with isn’t what we had dreamed it to be, almost prematurely. classes beginning Jan. 26, 2021. taking away the hope of having a relatively “I think that it may be a bit too early to Managing Editor Though the week of spring break, from normal senior spring,” Opoka said. call it at this point. It seems like the time Mar. 15 to Mar. 21, has been cancelled, But Opoka says she respects CCSU’s for when we can all be safely on campus Ryan Jones finals week, May 10 to May 16, 2021, will decision and understands it was made again is constantly changing,” Savior said. [email protected] continue as scheduled. with the best interest of students at heart. “Seeing as how spring break is about six As of now, the intent for next semester “As upset as I was initially, I agree months away, that’s a lot of time for the News Editor is to continue the combination of on- with the decision. I’m hoping that current situation to change. I think it’s all Samantha Bender ground and remote classes and activities. maybe by keeping our spring under about what things look like during winter “Limiting your exposure to COVID-19 tighter restriction, we’ll be able to have bre a k .” [email protected] during spring break is critical to keeping commencement ceremonies to have that The target date for the release of the Ryan Brooks, Assistant our campus community safe,” Dr. Toro’s last part of senior year actually happen,” spring 2021 schedule for use in advising is [email protected] email went on to state. Opoka said. around Oct. 5, 2020. The Council of Deans made the decision Colleges across the nation are following @SBENDER99 Lifestyle Editor Mauriah Johnson [email protected] Ndengo Mwilelo, Assistant [email protected]

Sports Editor Andrew Decapua, Assistant [email protected]

Layout Editor Julia Jade Moran [email protected]

Copy Editors GETTY IMAGES Jurrel Racine With the election nearing the corner, polls are looking for the younger generation to volunteer. [email protected] Polls Seek Younger Workers For Election Day Amidst COVID-19 Sarah Wall BY RYAN BROOKS “Picayune Item,” a typical day for a poll and having individuals who are culturally [email protected] ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR worker lasts between 12 to 15 hours and competent and speak several languages.” workers start training a couple of weeks In an effort to incentivize poll work, on Social Media Editors ith the presidential election before the election. Sept. 1, Old Navy announced they would Bailey Murphy less than two months away “Poll workers are the gatekeepers of offer their employees a day’s worth of pay if [email protected] and corona virus remaining democracy. They check people in, verify they signed up to work at the polls; Target Wprevalent, government officials across the their identity, and determine their eligibility later followed suit. Kelly Langevin nation are urging young citizens to become to vote,” Cook says. “If voters do not appear Earlier that day, Kentucky Secretary [email protected] Election Day poll workers. on the rolls, poll workers trouble-shoot the of State Michael Adams announced a A lack of poll workers is not uncommon. problem or offer a provisional ballot. Poll partnership with the nonprofit trade According to the Election Administration workers also explain how the machines organization “Guild of Brewers” to and Voting Survey , 70 percent of states and work, answer questions about the ballot promote poll worker registration on beer jurisdictions reported troubles recruiting and field complaints about long lines.” cans. The partnership will work to place Election Day staff. Many state governments, civic labels with QR codes on beer cans that take The survey also states that around 77 organizations and corporations have drinkers to a site where they may apply to percent of the poll workers are over the age stepped up to raise awareness in light of work at the polls or register to vote. of 61 which creates two problems. this. In Tennessee, Secretary of State Tre According to the CDC, “the risk for On Sept. 1, 2020, the Federal Election Hargett announced an essay scholarship severe illness from COVID-19 increases Assistance Commission declared for students who participate in poll work. with age, with older adults at highest risk.” “National Poll Worker Recruitment Day” “Students participating in this contest This means that if current trends with the civic organization “Power to the not only have the opportunity to win pertaining to older Americans working Polls.” The effort was aimed specifically at scholarship money by sharing their at the polls continue, thousands of younger voters; since then news outlets election experience in writing, but they are Americans would be putting their lives at have reported 350,000 new poll workers. helping their local election commission risk on Election Day. State Director Eduardo Sainz of “Mi run a safe and secure election,” Hargett The second problem is that a lack of Familia Vota,” a nonprofit voter outreach said. poll workers has been shown to contribute organization, told the Associated Press, Connecticut citizens may register to voter disenfranchisement, as long lines “we need to make sure that every voter as poll workers through their town curtail potential voters on Election Day. gets their vote to be counted and no voter government website or the Connecticut According to Cathy Cook of the gets turned away, and that means investing state government website. R @RB2K18 3 October 30, 2020 NEWS THE RECORDER Living On Campus In Quarantine CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Baechle took his COVID-19 During his stay, Baechle’s test on Aug. 20, with the intention biggest concern was the food of moving into his room selection provided to students. in Thomas Gallaudet Residence “I didn’t eat for the entire Hall on Aug. 25. time I was in there,” Baechle Within three days, Michael said. “The food shows up in received confirmation via phone to-go containers, stacked in the that his test results were negative, lobby and labeled by meal. It but in order to prove that to sits out at room temperature for CCSU Health Services and hours.” Residence Life, he was informed Baechle recounts finding he would have to show them the a warm yogurt when grabbing hard copy sent to him by mail. a breakfast for the following Baechle was expecting to day. But he was pleasantly receive his results on or before surprised that there were plastic move-in day, but he did not water bottles readily available receive them until the following in the hallways of Beecher at all afternoon. times. “I had an absolutely terrible He mentioned he was Food for those in quarantine are delivered in to-go containers. GWYNETH MCDONALD first two days,” Baechle said. provided linens but that the Baechle had the choice of nurses stated he was getting both everyone working in the building Additionally, since the water experience in Beecher was going home and returning with the last room and the last of their was nice and helpful. fountains have been shut off all difficult, both mentally and the hard-copy of his results or linens. Two nurses over campus as a precautionary physically, but there seems to living in Beecher until his results The residents in the building perform frequent mental health measure, Baechle feels that he be a general consensus that arrived and then having his are able to be on the patio outside checks and have an office in the was better hydrated in quarantine everyone in the community is family send him a photo of the during the day as long as the basement of Beecher Hall where than in his dorm in Gallaudet. doing the best they can during document. To avoid the excess professional nursing staff are they are doing COVID-19 tests Both Sutherland-Case this unprecedented time. for the CCSU community. and Baechle agree that their driving, he opted for the latter. in the office. Baechle raved that @GWYNETH MCDONALD CCSU Faculty Weigh In On HyFlex Model BY RYAN BROOKS overloaded,” Smith said. drop-off. English professor Gilbert Gigliotti shared similar “I think at least 75 percent of a given assignment is on ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR sentiments. time, as opposed to the regular 85 to 90 percent, so it’s not s Central Connecticut faculty complete their “The more technology one relies on the more like nobody is handing stuff in,” Gigliotti said. first month of the semester under corona virus opportunity there is for something to go wrong,” Gigliotti conditions, some professors reflect on the said. Asuccesses and failures of the HyFlex courses. Gigliotti, who has chosen to teach on-campus this In preparation for the fall 2020 semester, CCSU offered semester, stressed the importance of in-person interaction faculty technology training and in-person classes, which when teaching. included handouts, YouTube tutorials, as well as optional “I like being in a classroom, seeing people’s faces,” talks with the Instructional Design and Technology Center Gigliotti said. “I like being able to see if I’m getting through (IDTRC). to people.” Professor Robin Smith has applauded the quality of the training program but wishes faculty had more time to digest the information they were given.

Campus is pretty vacant due to RYAN BROOKS HyFlex classes. However, Gigliotti acknowledged the need to remind students of upcoming assignments more than usual. “I’m doing a lot more reminding, both in class and emails,” Gigliotti said. After experiencing the HyFlex model for a month, economics professor Mitchell Charkiewicz suggests a Classes are designed to keep RYAN BROOKS HyFlex expansion for the Spring 2021 semester, stating “an students six feet apart. increase in the HyFlex is preferable.” Charkiewicz feels encouraged by CCSU’s relatively low Throughout campus, hand RYAN BROOKS According to Smith, the in-person aspect of the college corona virus case numbers and has confident that the school sanitization stations are available experience is extremely important. Yet that face-to-face can handle more in-person students in the classroom. for students, staff and guests to interaction is just not possible for many students under the Professor Smith says she generally agrees with use. HyFlex model, which strips away the ability for students to Charkiewicz. “I think the issue was the window for training was short,” interact with their peers in meaningful ways. “Things are so fluid right now, in terms of health and Smith, the Chair of the Political Science Department, “It makes a world of difference when you get to know safety,” Smith said. “But I think the hope is at some point said. “The opportunity for faculty in August to familiarize your peers,” Smith said. “Some of my groups would finish next spring, we might be able to move from this mostly themselves with the equipment was limited.” in fifteen minutes and spend five minutes talking about online universe to some additional in-person opportunities.” Smith, who has used the online video platform Kaltura classes and sports, it’s that social interaction that is hard to With COVID-19 restrictions and the HyFlex model for the first month of the semester, was not surprised generate in this environment.” making it so that there is little activity on campus, many are when, in the first days of the new semester, the platform When asked about student participation and assignment just looking to return to some sense of sense normalcy. experienced a worldwide outage. completion, the professors found themselves split on the “I’m hoping more students, if things go the way they’ve “Everyone thought we would roll this out and it would issue. been going, choose to come next semester,” Gigliotti said. work, not understanding that hundreds of institutions Though many were concerned about a major drop in “It’s lonely on campus.” work completion, Gigliotti says that he sees little to no were rolling it out simultaneously and the system would be @RB2K18 4 October 30, 2020 NEWS THE RECORDER

CCSU students created a Facebook to share their displeasure on the university’s treatment of their personal CENTRAL ENGINEERING SERVICES belongings after the emergency move-out. Students Outraged By Centrals Disregard To Their Belongings CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Despite these claims, when the phone calls and filing a police statement, a toll on my mental health,” Prizio stated. “After about ten more minutes, a time came for students to retrieve their in addition to four missing items forms, to She claims to have had to thrown away Siracusa contractor came and spoke with belongings, it was evident to many students receive assistance. hundreds of dollars worth of items leaving, me and said ‘this has been happening to a that such safety measures CCSU had Kaylee White, a junior at Central, was including some that she believed were lot of people, we aren’t sure what happened,’ promised, were not actually implemented. met with similar frustrations when she “irreplaceable” and “priceless.” and that I needed to file a claim with the CCSU senior Stephanie Liptack was tried to address her issues with her items. In addition to CCSU’s safety measures, school,” Lane said. returned a shattered mirror and was “I actually had to fight and email students were also told the National Guard Despite filing a missing items form missing an entire dresser worth of clothing multiple times to even get someone to talk would be assisting in returning students’ and Lane received no feedback. She later that she in turn had to replace with her own to me and when I did the only thing they belongings when it was deemed safe for went on to write a detailed email to several money. said was ‘I will pass along your concerns’”. them to return to campus and gather university administrators, including “I feel as if Central did not care about When students asked for the video their items. But Sydney Lane, a former Facilities Management, Student Affairs, mine and my peers’ concerns with the move footage of their items being moved out of residence assistant in F. Don James Hall, Residence Life, the university deans and out process as they did not update us about the dorm, their requests were met with described the process as “unorganized” and Dr. Toro. our items for nearly three months,” Liptack, cryptic responses. “disrespectful.” “I received a very dismissive email back a criminology student, stated. “None of the Prizio received an email stating “we will Though Lane arrived early to gather her from the president’s office stating they did promises about how our items would be look through the video if you discover a items, it took her about an hour to retrieve the best they could and basically too bad packed was followed, and even still Central missing item” but along with many of her them. When the time came, she realized for us,” Lane said. has remained pretty silent about this issue.” peers, she was never given access to the her refrigerator was missing and, after CCSU has yet to release an official Liptack added that in order to get video footage even after providing proof of providing a clear description of it, asked statement addressing these concerns and answers she had to speak with multiple the missing items. the staff to look for it. After 20 minutes had did not respond to requests for comment. faculty and staff members about her “The absolute frustration has become passed, the staff informed her they couldn’t @SBENDER99 missing items, as well as making many so overwhelming and has definitely taken find her fridge. PRIDE CLUB We need writers! Every other Tuesday at 5pm Starting Sept. 29 - Open to all! Scan the QR code below to join! Interested in being featured in the newspaper?

Contact an Editor (see page 2) 5 October 30, 2020 NEWS THE RECORDER A Look Inside CCSU’s Corona Virus Tracking System CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 All student reports will be investigated by the Student Health. Rights and Responsibilities Office. “We not only talk to them about what’s going on He emphasized that now more than ever people need in our campus but also about what’s going on in New to be socially responsible and be an ambassador when it Britain public about our commuter students that live comes to wearing a mask. in the area,” Claffey stated. “We’re looking at every “The only places that are permissible [without CCSU constituent: every staff, students, faculty, a mask] are over in Memorial Hall and the Student regardless of where they live. We’re trying to talk to Center’s Devil’s Den area. And so, for some people them and engage with them to see how they’re doing. they’re like ‘well I’m in that area,’ and it is ‘that area’ but I think that’s part of why we’re being so successful wouldn’t it be better for you to put your mask back on because we’re building that relationship and showing once you finish eating, especially at this point in time?” people this is a community that cares.” Cintorino expressed. “For someone to say ‘oh c’mon, Cintorino shared the university has also taken what’s the big deal?’ The ‘big deal’ is I don’t want to get other steps in preventing the spread of COVID-19 sick and you don’t want to get sick.” on campus. These new additions include social According to Claffey, CCSU has one of the largest distancing measures, required face masks and contact tracing team of any of the public schools in coverings, ultraviolet lighting in every classroom, Connecticut. In addition to the staff working for the new HVAC systems with ultraviolet cleaning university health services that are in the quarantine systems to purifies circulating air and multiple hand and isolation dorms, there are contact tracers, a 24/7 sanitization stations. COVID-19 hotline as well as seven nurses that are “All those things were so that we can create the providing nurse-supervision support. best possible safe environment for everybody that’s The university also remains in contact with New on the campus,” Cintorino said. Britain’s and Connecticut’s Department of Public ISABELLA CHAN CCSU Plans To Introduce More HyFlex In Spring 2021 BY RYAN HAYES there’s a possibility more people can be accommodated on Brock was unsure if he should switch to another STAFF WRITER campus. software as Kaltura has a 15-second delay, so he conducted To have an “open style” campus in spring 2021, CCSU a poll among his students. They ultimately decided to stick he fall 2020 semester is underway and everyone must first meet the requirements of an extensive rubric and with Kaltura. on campus has been adjusting to a new era receive clearance from Governor Ned Lamont’s office that “Based on the results that I got, it seemed like not too of learning. With the pandemic and social the university has met conditions to open more fully. many students wanted to make the change at this point,” Tdistancing requirements, large-scale coordination is Wolff expressed that the two most important factors for Brock said. much more difficult, but Central Connecticut is looking student success are building a connection with a professor Brock wanted to avoid changing course in the middle forward to using what they have learned to make further and forming a peer group; the pandemic making both of of the semester seeing as how students had already gotten improvements this semester and into spring 2021. these more difficult than usual. used to the program. “It’s a lot harder to make connections through Webex. It’s working for some, but we have students who know they need to make connections in person. So, the HyFlex classes were initially designed for them,” Wolff said. HyFlex classes average around 12 people, but in larger rooms such as Torp Theatre, which are equipped to hold up to 40 people with social distancing measures in place. Dr. Steven Brock of the criminology department teaches “Victimless Crime” via the HyFlex format. Within his course, there are 30 students enrolled, but only four of them are signed up for the in-class portion. The professors have been using the software, Kaltura, for remote students. This program allows professors to live stream and record class at the same time that it is happening, allowing for synchronous or asynchronous viewing. Originally, Kaltura was the only software available for HyFlex classes, but the university has now made other softwares available such as Cisco Webex and Microsoft Teams.

The library desks are spaced for RYAN BROOKS Access to printers have been RYAN BROOKS social distancing. revoked due to COVID-19 protocols. According to Dr. Robert Wolff, Dean of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, the university hopes to turn the corner CCSU plans on continuing to adapt to the changing on the pandemic, meaning that they want to allow more circumstances to help students learn safely and want students on campus. However, he says that CCSU is going students to know that people are working hard to adapt to to have to be prepared for anything. challenges and help them succeed. “We have to plan for all different possibilities. So we are “It’s a struggle for everybody, but your faculty, your planning and we’re registering for students in a semester advisors, your Deans’ Offices, everybody is working that’s kind of like this one, but with some more options,” incredibly hard to try to help students succeed,” Wolff Wolff said. said, addressing specifically students. “So if anyone’s facing If the corona virus pandemic begins to spike in numbers challenges the first thing they need to know is to reach out again, CCSU would have to return to remote instruction, to somebody.” similar to that of spring 2020. But, if the situation improves, Computers are not available for RYAN BROOKS student use. 6 October 30, 2020 NEWS THE RECORDER Dukes Demands Justice From Hartford Police And CCSU

Black Lives Matter flags were being waved at the rally in Hartford. GWYNETH MCDONALD BY ISABELLA CHAN Berenbach contacted Hartford Police, stating a large, drunk, time” while at the rally. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF black male was trying to kill her and himself while heavily “It is unfortunate that we have people in positions of armed. authority and power that make decisions that affect our lives t was a typical end-of-summer Saturday afternoon, the A year after the incident, the DNA reports concluded Dukes that don’t relate to their reality. They see first the color of pale blue sky painted with delicate small clouds was was “eliminated as the source of the DNA profile” from the first our skin or gender and not seeing the person, not seeing the coupled with a cool, refreshing breeze blowing through strip of duct tape collected. DNA tested from the second strip humanity.” Arnold stated. “We can’t paint the picture as a Ithe air. And as the sun shined down on the Hartford Police of duct tape indicated that there were three mixtures of DNA ‘Black thing’ or a ‘White thing’ but what’s doing what’s right Department, a small crowd gathered outside the building found, it likely being Berenbach, Dukes and unknown sources. and addressing unrighteousness.” shouting “justice will prevail!” Both strips of duct tape suggested that it was predominately “Chris I’m here and I will stand with you and learn how to The audience could not have been no more than two Berenbach’s DNA found on them. fight this peaceful, righteous way to address the corruptions dozen, but that did not lessen their support for Christopher “She fabricated evidence and your state lab proved it,” that are in this police force, Hartford PD, and everywhere Dukes, former Director of Student Conduct at Central Dukes said into the megaphone. “Beyond any reasonable else. We have to stand for what’s right,” Arnold added. Connecticut. Dukes demanded justice for himself using a doubt, no one else could have taken that duct tape off that roll While the charges against Dukes have been dismissed, megaphone and a small suitcase of evidence he gathered except her, and the officer who’s DNA is on there as well. Go CCSU has not redacted his termination. Following his supporting his innocence. get both of them!” termination, he had stated the university had “ulterior Furthermore, Dukes claims Hartford police manipulated motives” for his removal, citing two distinct cases he handled his case and are “only trying to protect themselves from during his time as Director of Student Conduct, now known prosecution” by not releasing all of the evidence from the night as Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities (OSRR). of the incident and supporting a “false” report. “Under the previous administration, CCSU buried several “[Hartford Police] gave me all my property back, except misconduct cases, where one staff member committed a one item: the roll of duct tape that they seized as evidence. rape, another severely sexually harassed another person,” They have still not given it back to me, deciding that it needs a Dukes stated. “Unbeknownst to the previous president, he court order. They don’t want to give up the tape because they had absolutely nothing to do with it, but two administrators know Hartford Police helped her plant that evidence, helped on his executive committee covered up those cases.” her fabricate that evidence while they had control of my According to Dukes, CCSU was scheduled to be house,” Dukes stated to the crowd. “They know what they did reviewed and audited for all sexual misconduct cases in and they’ve been concealing it ever since.” 2018. Prior to the investigation, he claims to have met with Currently, Dukes’s case is under investigation by the President Dr. Zulma R. Toro to inform her of the two cases Hartford Police Department. and planned to inform the auditors during their visit. Days Christine Dukes accused her GWYNETH MCDONALD husband of abuse. Many of those in attendance chimed in throughout Dukes’s later, Dukes was accused by his wife and was promptly speech, adding their own personal commentary when they felt placed on administrative leave; the meeting of the auditors In 2018, Dukes faced multiple charges from his wife, it fit. was cancelled. Christine A. Berenbach, who accused him of attacking her. “Prior to my dismissal, CCSU did not interview one He was arrested for two counts of first-degree kidnapping and “Give up the duct tape!” witness in this case, not one. They didn’t interview my strangulation, third-degree assault, second-degree threatening “They’re lying!” estranged wife, who was the complaint in criminal case. and breach of peace, according to police reports. “Justice will prevail!” Nobody filed a complaint at Central so unless someone All charges were dismissed on Nov. 14, 2019, but Dukes served as the complaint at Central, they were supposed to still faces repercussions from the night of his arrest including As supporters stepped up to speak, many of them shared conduct an unbiased investigation. You would’ve thought limited visitation with his children and termination from his their personal experiences with Dukes and their grievances they didn’t know me after being on that campus since 18 position at Central Connecticut. with his case. years old in 1990.” “[Hartford Police] have lied to the public about what CCSU graduate Jajuan Arnold has known Dukes since Dukes’s termination is being investigated by in the hands happened to this case. And I said before, as the scripture reads, his days as a student on campus. Though just learning about of an arbitrator. CCSU has no comment at this time. it is a time for war and then we will get peace,” Dukes said. He many of the details in Dukes’s case just months ago, Arnold “I’m not seeking vengeance or being bitter, my point is shared his recollection of the events leading up to the incident, expressed feeling “frustrated but encouraged at the same justice needs to be served,” Dukes expressed. calling out his estranged wife for falsely incriminating him, the Hartford Police Department for mishandling his case and CCSU for firing him without a thorough investigation. “My call for action is that I want the legal process to work the way it was intended,” Dukes said. “Our pledge of alliance talks about with liberty and justice for all, not some. Not women, not men, not black, not white, for all.” “We are all entitled under the 14th amendment of the United States Constitution equal protection under the law. The moment these criminals knew this woman staged a 9-1-1 call, they should’ve arrested her and they haven’t. I am calling for the same justice they tried to serve me with.” In the initial police reports, Berenbach reported Dukes had dragged her into their basement and bounded her with pre-cut stripes of duct tape, then forcing her to confess to having an extramarital affair, which she denies. After escaping the house, The small crowd remained with Dukes for the duration of the rally. GWYNETH MCDONALD 7 October 30, 2020 OPINION THE RECORDER EDITORIAL Wake Up And Smell The Fires e are no strangers to California innocent intentions of celebrating an must immediately begin to combat climate the earth we share.” We are the inheritors wildfires, but one of the most exciting event, can result in over 19,000 change? of the earth, and each of us has a role in recent ones, which has been acres burned just goes to show the For over 4.5 billion years, it has protected preserving it. deemedW California’s largest single wildfire, monumental consequences that can result us. It has given us life, a place to live, and a The magnitude of the fire may hits home more than most. from ignorance and lack of regard for the place to sustain our needs. Unfortunately, not impact you, wherever you are in According to CNN, the El Dorado Fire planet. we have not taken good care of the house Connecticut. However, it has taken lives, in San Bernardino County was sparked It was not only terrifying, but also that has given us life. destroyed communities, and has caused by a smoke-generating pyrotechnic device appalling to learn that the hazy skies Many things are happening to our earth, what could be hundreds of billions of used at a gender reveal party. If this isn’t looming ominously over Connecticut the including the wildfires across Western dollars in damage. any indication of just how much of an last few days was actually to be attributed states. Let us start questioning ourselves; impact each individuals has on one another to the smoke that made its way 3,000 plus isn’t this proof enough for us that we have and the planet, then we’re afraid to see what miles across the country from the western taken advantage our earth to the extent else there is to show for it. wildfires. where it is exhausted? If the world doesn’t “wake up and California Governor Gavin Newsom smell the fires” soon then the chance to told CNBC the worst is yet to come if take action will slip by us. In fact, the new people do not consider what the earth “Climate Clock” in New York City stresses demands of them. the importance of this. It is saddening to “California, folks, is America fast think about how Manhattan’s Metronome’s forward. What we’re experiencing right digital clock, which once told time, now here is coming to communities across the tells our remaining time to alter our impact United States of America unless we get our on climate change. act together on climate change,” Newsom Will we need more than a 62-foot-wide, said. CAL FIRE 15-digit electronic clock for us to wake up While some might say the fire happening and take action? from afar in California or Arizona has no The impact it has created is a message When will we realize we are not impact in their lives – it sure it impacts to all of us that we must come together to invincible, nor is our planet and its every human being because this is our combat climate change – if we do not work CAL FIRE resources? earth. Maya Angelou once said, “We need together and hold hands in unity, climate When will we realize that if we want any joy as we need air. We need love as we change will take over the place we all call Knowing that one party, with the chance of growing old on this planet we need water. We need each other as we need home. Editor’s Column: My Educational Experience Is Being Reduced So Why Isn’t My Tuition? to alter their quality of education for students I am well aware that this is a double-edged without properly adjusting their tuition rates sword; without a tuition increase, institutions and fees, in my opinion, is conniving and may have a budget crisis to face, including pay dishonorable. Earning a degree is a costly cuts, layoffs and furloughs. But is that worth decision and is thought of as an investment for the price of experiencing a drop in student the future, but this feels like a deal gone wrong. enrollment and retention? My access to campus services are reduced. Not In order to forgo lower rates, some institutions to mention, a majority, if not all classes are taught have chosen against a tuition freeze/increase. virtually, and yet I still have to pay the same Already, Spelman College, Princetown rates and fees as if things are “normal.” In simple University, Georgetown University and others, terms: we’ve been swindled and it’s ludicrous. have banded together to create a 10 percent cut For many state colleges and universities, to their tuition. Along with that, Southern New including Central Connecticut, tuition rates and Hampshire University has made efforts to aid fees are administered by the state legislature and students by offering incoming freshmen full- a board of executives. All decisions are made at tuition scholarships and promised to cut tuition the board’s discretion, including if tuition rates by 61 percent for the next academic year. and fees will be discounted, frozen or increased. Similar adjustments should be made across all At the beginning of February 2020, Connecticut higher education platforms because the change State Colleges and Universities announced to online learning heavily impacts a student’s tuition and fees at the four state universities livelihood. While a tuition decrease for one or will increase by “an average of 3.8 percent for two academic years may momentarily impair an commuter students and 3.3 percent for resident institution, the reduced quality in education will students. In total, this means an average annual impact a student for the rest of their life. increase of just over $400 for commuter students I appreciate the proactiveness and adjustments BY ISABELLA CHAN and just over $800 for residents.” made in order to create a learning environment EDITOR-IN-CHIEF One would believe that because of the during this time, but we all can agree that it is not extenuating circumstances brought upon by the same nor conventional. I am not asking for n the last few months, I have come to loathe the word “normal,” because things will not COVID-19 a freeze would be in order, but the university or others to give me what I paid be returning to normal for a long time. The months later the decision to increase tuition still for because it is simply not possible at this time. Iworld is in a troubling state and there is no stands and has yet to be reversed. Maybe their What I am asking them to do is to consider their denying that the need to adapt is critical, but that argument is “online learning isn’t that bad,” but students’ futures and fight for a tuition decrease. doesn’t change the fact that online learning does if someone on the board had to learn statistics After all, universities love to say we are one big, not equate to the learning experience inside of a classroom. through a Zoom meeting then I’m sure they’d happy family, so it’s time to start acting like one. Therefore, any college or university willing feel differently. 8 October 30, 2020 OPINION THE RECORDER Wear Your Mask To Save A Life that wearing a mask is extremely important and they are more people would be at risk and in the hospital. The BY SHWAR ZAIDI disappointed in how others are not taking it seriously after hospitals don’t even have enough beds, which would be CONTRIBUTOR hearing multiple students tested positive for COVID-19 an issue.” because they went out to different social gatherings. President Dr. Zulma Toro emailed members of orona virus is a dangerous disease that has been CCSU Student Government Association Vice university stressing the importance of wearing a mask, spreading worldwide and is not a stranger to the President Cheyenne Bermudez said that she was extremely not gathering in huge parties and social distancing. United States. In order to prevent further harm disappointed in how people acted “selfishly” for not Additionally, the email noted that local police and CCSU Cto the economy, while trying to live the most normal life wearing a mask and going out to large gatherings. Police Department will b were making sure that students where we do not live in another lockdown, we have to “I am starting to see people slowly wearing their were not partying in large gatherings off-campus. wear masks. masks improperly or not at all, which is heartbreaking,” Wearing a mask is more than just a piece of fabric on Around the end of May, many places such as stores, Bermudez said. “A lot of faculty and students have spent your face. It’s saving people from dying and reducing the schools, restaurants and movie theaters began to open. these past six months working relentlessly to open the pain felt around the world. If people are not serious, we However, they would open with a couple of negotiations campus and it’s sad to see how little people care. More will never be able to have a normal life where we can freely and restrictions, specifically that people must wear a mask people are just going to parties and being selfish by not go out in the world to do as we desire, like before. and practice social distancing. thinking of the consequence of their actions.” For those experiencing the COVID-19 symptoms Unfortunately, not everyone is pleased with wearing Masks are more beneficial than what may people please quarantine at home and contact a medical care a mask. We live in an individualistic society where people think. According to the Center for Disease Control and provider. These symptoms include: coughing, shortness of often do not like to be told what to do by the government. Prevention, masks help block air particles with many breath, fever, headaches, loss of smell/taste, muscle ache, There has been a political debate going around that it’s the germs from other people who sneeze or cough from the blue lips or dizziness. people’s choice to wear masks and they shouldn’t be forced nose and mouth. For more information, visit cdc.gov to do so. Some people might cause a fight while trying to Julia Plunkett, a senior at CCSU, said that masks go into restaurants or public settings when asked to wear could help save lives and avoid losing someone you love. a mask. “Last year my mum died because of Influenza A,” The action of people not wearing a mask is causing a Plunkett said, “if they are saying COVID-19 is worse, I will lot of significant harm to society. We all want to get back be wearing a mask. It helps keep students, friends, family, to our normal lives. But if we can’t flatten the curve, it will staff and professors’ safety. I wouldn’t wish the loss of a be impossible. parent or friend to something so easily managed by social Different people can experience severe and painful distancing, washing your hands and wearing a mask on symptoms if they contract the virus. The virus can kill or any on e .” harm elders, people with mental issues or even healthy “Masks slow the spread of COVID-19 and slowly people. flatten the curve,” Helen Moore, a senior at CCSU, also Some Central Connecticut students have expressed added. “If we all stopped wearing masks, then more and When Is Profane Language Acceptable For A Newspaper Headline, If Ever? truth and be as honest about the world and the events happening in it as we can possibly be. By treating swear words as if they are some sort of bomb, we do our readers a disservice. It is not our job to protect and shadow readers from the reality of the world. Our job is to shed light on it, as difficult and harsh as it may be at times. The Daily Tar Heel certainly succeeded in receiving the attention it deserves, and I believe their word choice was justified given the situation at hand. I applaud them for taking matters into their own hands. Current Editor In Chief for The Daily Tar Heel, Anna Pogarcic, told The Washington Post she stands behind their decision to run the headline. “This is basically our full time job to serve our community and readers and hold the University accountable,” Pogarcic said. “It came to a point where it just felt something needed to be said. The words we typically use were not enough.” What better way to convey their point about the university’s decisions than by crafting a headline that would pull SAMANTHA BENDER UNC student newspaper the “Daily Tar Heel” says “UNC has a Cluster readers in and encourage them to read @#$% on its hands” their concerns? avoided at all costs. up their claim and bold headline. At a certain point, it’s necessary to BY SAMANTHA BENDER The article, about clusters of corona I’m also a firm believer in freedom take a stand and develop new and creative NEWS EDITOR virus cases that had popped up on of speech. While profane language tactics to deliver a specific message. campus since reopening, was fitting in shouldn’t be used carelessly and just for The Daily Tar Heel’s play on words he University of North Carolina at more ways than one. the heck of it, such language can be used was an effective way of calling attention Chapel Hill’s student newspaper, But I’ve always been taught that within context to best explain a situation to UNC’s decision to move forward with The Daily Tar Heel, summed up there’s a time and place for everything or article, as well as to attract readers. It in-person instruction. theT school’s corona virus policy with an and given the state of the world right also comes down to connotation. Many Let’s spend less time treating swear “f-bomb.” now, specifically the effects of the corona words are considered everyday language, words as if they are forbidden or the end When news circulated of the profane virus on daily and school life, I’d say this yet other words with the same definition of the world and more time allowing headline and images of it were shared was both the correct time and place. are considered in poor taste due to journalists to use their discretion when it all over the internet, I couldn’t help Though there’s no denying that such connotations we’ve created and built up comes to crafting headlines and relaying but consider whether using such language should rarely be used, the over time. news to the public. strong language is acceptable in certain editorial was well-reasoned and well- As journalists, it is our duty and @SBENDER99 situations like this one, or if it should be written with facts and statistics to back responsibility to our readers to report the 9 October 30, 2020 LIFESTYLE THE RECORDER An Amazonian Delivery: Riding Shotgun With An Essential Worker 20 minutes until Craig backs into a driveway; facility properly yet social distancing markers dropping off a box of Maxwell House coffee to a were not implemented and gloves, masks home resembling a tree-house with the roof of and sanitizer had to be self-provided — a hut. Skipping back enthusiastically,“Alright! which a mass production company like ‘the first tote done!” everything store’ [Amazon] could have easily Driving five minutes out to the next provided. destination in East Hampton, Craig pulls While some changes have been made, such over into a non-housing area full of trees and as indoor temperature taking stations, Craig begins to organize the packages in the totes by admits that “a lot of workers began to skip to the zones labeled with the correlating sticker get to the vans outside.” [B]; writing the number of the house with her Luckily, there haven’t been any confirmed black Expo marker that she keeps in her blue cases in the Bristol branch. However, Amazon vest pocket. is still neglecting the high possibility of As the sounds of juggling boxes quiets contraction through essential equipment, down, an overwhelming faucet of water begins like their community phones, chargers, keys, to ring louder than the droplets of rain. With a accessories and the vans. quick neck turn, there’s Craig squatted in the “It’s not worth it, we aren’t properly middle of nature, taking a bathroom break compensated for the effort we put in and our with the doors of the open van blocking any health that is being sacrificed for $16 an hour - possible pedestrian view. no one deserves this Jeff Bezos,” Craig said. Amazon drivers are permitted only one Despite her employer’s shortcomings, Craig thirty-minute break and two fifteen-minute still makes her six in the morning shifts “the breaks that are “not convenient or effective” best,” by listening to the gospel hit “The Best Is Sydney Craig delivers Amazon packages MAURIAH JOHNSON when working ten-hour shifts regularly and Yet To Come” by Donald Lawrence & The Tri- during the pandemic. being held to timely delivery standards. City singers to get her mind right. For Craig, “You wouldn’t believe how many people are According to Business Insider , other there is one thing that seems to triumph all BY MAURIAH JOHNSON actually waiting to receive their packages this LIFESTYLE EDITOR Amazon drivers have even admitted to odds: the customers. early,” Craig said as her head bops to the music urinating in “bottles, bags or outside to save “I’ve never felt such sincere gratitude for just emphasizing her retro striped cap. She nods Welcome to the life,” Sydney Craig said time on the road.” Some women shared they’ve delivering their packages, the smiles on their and makes quick eye contact with me – “Yes, as she pulled into the gravel employee “brought buckets and baby wipes to work so faces when I’m walking to their door and let’s at seven in the morning.” lot at the brisk of dawn, opening they could go to the bathroom in the trucks.” not get started on their “Thank You” baskets As Craig takes a right turn, she passes a the“ passenger door for me to hop inside The corona virus shelter-in-place orders filled with some of my favorites: M&M’s, Kind burgundy sign reading “Welcome to East Amazon’s white Ford quickly. has opened the world’s eyes to what it means Bars and Bai Tea,” Craig gushed. Hampton,” and the repetitive maple syrup “We have 183 packages today, so, clearly, to be an essential worker. Workers, often After finishing her last tote of the day farms; she turns into a high-end cul-de-sac. we’re not getting out of here early,” she joked. taken for granted, are risking their lives on around 1:30p.m., Craig decided to “gas up” She pulls over, grabs her Amazon android, The back of the van is filled to the brim with the front lines. This includes grocery workers, and then take her thirty minute break. As she hops out and opens the double doors on the yellow and black three-foot-wide plastic crates mailmen, ride-share, transit and delivery sat in the driver’s seat eating her Great Value left-hand side and scans the bar-code of three the company calls “totes,” which groups the drivers. canned pineapples, she reflected on all the wild packages. day’s deliveries. The packages are organized With the pandemic reaching nearly six dogs she’s had to dodge while delivering, how “This is our first stop!” alphabetically by the zones’ zip codes and million in the U.S. and millions still filing for many telephone poles she’s hit trying to reverse Craig troops through the walkway in her labeled with correlating stickers [A through E]. weekly unemployment, Amazon still hasn’t the van and her infamous bathroom breaks in grey pants, clutching the packages in one hand At the same time, large orders of bounty paper wrapped itself around people testing positive unspeakable places. and the phone in her other. Standing at just 5’2, towels, kids bicycles and headphones peaked in over 70 of their facilities. “I mean, I don’t know too many people who the rain happily greets her as she makes it to through the crevices of boxes. The billion-dollar company may be bring canned fruit to work for other purposes, the door. “The route today isn’t my usual, we’re violating labor laws as well as not taking safety not excluding bowel movements,” she added. She gently places the packages at the front heading 40 minutes out to East Hampton.” precautions after NPR released information Her pearly whites shined in laughter as her door where the customer has requested. Craig places her pencil case of travel of the company unrightfully laying off protest gloved hand shifts the van from park to reverse. Stands back, takes a picture for proof of sanitizer on the dash, hooks up her Amazon leaders to “send a threatening message to “Alright! We’ve had enough Amazon for the delivery, swipes “Finish” on her device and is delivery phone and cues Rufus & Chaka other employees that they should also keep day, let’s go home!” given her next destination that so happened Khan’s infamous “Sweet Thing” while eating quiet about any health and safety concerns.” to be two minutes away at a two-story home her homemade bacon, egg and cheese on a Even Craig’s Bristol branch laid off UPDATE: Since the writing of this story, painted with a blue-eyed dancing monkey cinnamon raisin bagel as the sun began to rise. “almost half the company [twenty workers]” Sydney Craig’s Amazon branch has now been right out front. The van eases onto state road 74. through a text message. Branch management closed. She is become another one of the The hopping in and out cycle continues for took nearly four weeks to accommodate the millions filing for unemployment. A Fascinating Recreation BY ISABELLA CHAN truffle shavings lying around and know how to use them. But Weissman’s confidence can often borderline arrogance, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF As Weissman takes on fast food chains with his artisanal throwing in commentary like “I broke down this whole chicken reinventions, he takes his viewers through an experience that is for flex,” and “not everyone has to be extra like me” in his s I was falling down the YouTube rabbit hole almost familiar but new at the same time. By watching childhood voiceovers. during quarantine, I found myself in a peculiar favorites, like McDonald’s chicken nuggets, come to life in an During his Wendy’s Baconator cook-off, Weissman described place: food recreations. After binging the well- actual kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia hit — or his revamped burger as “the Michelin-starred French laundry,” Aknown Bon Appétit’s “Gourmet Makes,” I needed another maybe that was just my stomach grumbling. and his counter-part as a flop, “trying to fly away because it’s series to feed my food obsessions — thus came Joshua embarrassed.” Weissman’s “But Better.” The eccentric food blogger is self-righteous to put it lightly, The series follows Weissman as he battles against coveted but he truly does know what he’s talking about. If you can look fast foods with his upscale version of them. Using professional past his not-so-subtle brags, then you can learn to appreciate his cooking skills, high-quality techniques and real ingredients, the talent at the stove. 21-year-old chef elevates the quick eats to restaurant-quality bites. Rather than using store-bought brioche buns or even pre- In the end, Weissman almost always comes out as the self- made barbecue sauce from his fridge, Weissman creates almost proclaimed winner. every ingredient from scratch and incorporates recipes from I should warn you of a few things before falling into his cookbook, “The Slim Palate Paleo Cookbook,” into the dish. Weissman’s rabbit hole: Crafting homemade Japanese milk buns and caramelizing This is not a “do-it-yourself” series. In fact, anyone at a onions for a sweet, savory sauce are doubtfully a part of In-N- beginner’s cooking level should probably hold off on attempting Out’s Double-Double recipe. But in Weissman’s version it is a his recreations because Weissman’s cooking technique and use must, and doesn’t it just look beautiful that way? of ingredients are impressive to say the least. But if his skills on the grill aren’t enough, then simply be Weissman’s recreations are not identical to the drive-thru In his version of In-N-Out’s JOSHUA WEISSMAN Double Double, Weissman bakes enticed by the visually appealing B-roll and hilarious meme/ originals. Though he swears to make the recipes similar, they are his hamburger buns. Vine references thrown in. It pains me to say that not many not. His food merely captures the essence of fast food items. YouTubers know how to capture an audience, but Weissman My last piece of advice is don’t make the rookie mistake of Despite being a fan of his competitor’s foods, the YouTuber has got it down to a science. watching on an empty stomach; the B roll shots will leave you is very critical of them at the beginning of each episode. By The impressive edits coupled with mouth-watering food is salivating. revealing the flaws we all hate to admit are there when it comes to too irresistible to deny. So if you find yourself nearing YouTube’s In other words, don’t expect to be able to go home, hungry, fast-food franchises, Weissman places himself in the lead before food rabbit hole, don’t be afraid to dive into “But Better.” Trust and recreate his Arby’s curly fries unless you have fresh black even touching a whisk. me, it is better. 10 October 30, 2020 LIFESTYLE THE RECORDER Fall Fashion Is Calling, Ready To Pick It Up? BY ISABELLA CHAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF eaves are falling and autumn is calling. Which means it is time to bring out the cozy sweaters and fun jackets to layer up. It may have been a while since some of us have ventured out of our homes, so for those looking for some guidance on how to tackle the brisk season, look no further than this fall fashion guide. L COLORED LEATHER JEWEL TONES ANIMAL PRINT & FAUX FUR There’s nothing like throwing on a good piece of They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but deep Animal print is always a hit year-round and it leather to add a touch of rebellious to any look. With jewel tones might have them beat. Everyone looks becomes a major trend in the fall when coupled an excellent article of leather, an outfit can become a good in at last one shade of jewels; whether it is with faux fur. Take on the jungle that the world has beautiful fashion ensemble. Simply make that change sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple, citrine become with these animalistic vibes and fierce prints by elevating your look of black leather to colorful yellow or emerald green, there is a color for everyone! an d fabrics. You’ll surely be able to take on the leather —the splash of vibrant hues will add a refined, The best part is, all jewel tones are complementary to COVID-filled autumn. sophisticated edge. each other which makes curating an outfit with all the tones a breeze.

EARTH COLORS STATEMENT CARDIGANS COLORED & PRINTED SUITS If jewel tones are too vibrant for your taste, then Sweater weather is here, but that doesn’t mean to pull Every college student should invest in a suit because, ground yourself with beautiful, open earth tones. out the “plain Jane” pieces. Layering on a statement together or separately, it offers an easy go-to in By layering various shades of browns, greens cardigan adds an element of vivacity that a solid professional attire. In addition to that, a suit rarely and whites, an outfit is elevated to a modern yet colored sweater just doesn’t have. Plus, it’s a great way goes out of style and this season is no exemption. Play clean look. Much like jewel tones, earth colors to stay warm; the more layers, the better! around with colors and fabrics to assemble a suit that are complementary of one another and, when fits you and your style perfectly. Consider seasonal combined, they offer chic attire for the season. shades and fabrics, like corduroy, that’ll keep you toasty inside and outside.

We Can’t Keep Up With The Kardashian’s Anymore

BY SHWAR ZAIDI hours documenting our lives. Our Khloe Kardashian wrote the reported that she could not stay “I feel sad that the show is last season will air early next year in same message on her Instagram page, in the show because it was a toxic ending and I am sure I can speak for CONTRIBUTOR 2021. Without Keeping Up with The expressing how much she loved being environment for her. Which is why all the fans when I say that we did not It is with heavy hearts that we’ve Kardashians, I would not be where I in the show, but it had to end with all Kris finally decided the show should see this coming,” Lavado said. “But I made the difficult decision as a am today. I am so incredibly grateful the family signed at the bottom of the end. am looking forward to seeing what family to say goodbye to Keeping to everyone who has watched and message. Senior Melody Zielke expressed new business adventures they will Up“ with the Kardashians,” according supported me and my family these Some Central Connecticut her support for the Kardashians and have after the show is over and I am to Kim Kardashian’s Instagram post. past 14 incredible years. This show students have said they felt shocked explained why she did so, sharing sure they will bring the show back “After what will be 14 years, 20 made us who we are, and I will be and hurt that their favorite show she thought the hate they received when their kids are older.” seasons, hundreds of episodes and forever in debt to everyone who would no longer be there with them. was unnecessary. Regardless of whether people numerous spin-off shows, we are played a role in shaping our careers “I’ve been watching this show “I have always supported the hate or love the Kardashians, the beyond grateful to all of you who’ve and changing our lives forever.” since I was so little and it almost Kardashians/Jenner clan because show became the reason for their watched us for all of these years – We never knew this day would became a tradition,” student Sofia of a very important reason,” Zielke popularity. Many people around through the good times, the bad come, but it’s finally here. “Keeping Boluk said. “The show will be said. “Kim, Kris, Kourtney and the world were entertained, which times, the happiness, the tears, and Up with the Kardashians” is a hit missed dearly. It’s been great.” Khloe made their way to the top resulted in a total of 18 seasons to be the many relationships and children. reality TV show documenting the Many speculations are going being female in a man’s world. With produced. The show will be missed We will forever cherish the wonderful life of a huge family with Kris as the around as to why the show came to their TV show and much different by many of their fans who supported memories and countless people mother who raised six daughters: an end. clothing, makeup and perfume lines them through their fame. we’ve met along the way. Thank Kourtney, Kim, Khloe, Kendall and According to Elle, there has created on the empire. A lot of people If you have never watched or you to the thousands of individuals Kylie, with frequent appearances by been a source saying that Kylie give them hate, yet they have never would like to re-watch the show, it is and businesses that have been a Rob Kardashian and Scott Disick. Jenner and Kim Kardashian wanted walked a day in their shoes to know still available in Hulu. There are also part of this experience and, most The show filmed each of their to quit the show to take care of their how hard it is to live in the paparazzi spin-off shows such as “Life of Kylie,” importantly, a very special thank lives and displayed how they dealt kids and partners. Kim has had a camera 24/7.” “Kourtney & Kim Take Miami,” you to Ryan Seacrest for believing with being famous while sticking lot of drama with Kanye West and Fellow senior, Deena Lavado, “Kourtney & Kim Take New York,” in us, E! for being our partner, and together as a family since 2007. wanted to focus on her mental said she was completely in shock “Khloe & Lamar,” “Dash Dolls,” our production team at Bunim/ Recently, it was announced that the health. when she found out the show was “Rob & Chyna” as well as recent ones Murray, who’ve spent countless show would be coming to an end Furthermore, according to Elle, ending but has a feeling they will like “Revenge Body” with Khloe and after 18 seasons. Kourtney Kardashian has already come back. “Flip it Like Disick” with Scott. 11 October 30, 2020 LIFESTYLE THE RECORDER No Straight Roads: Battle Of The Bands BY SAMUEL PAPPAS STAFF WRITER ou know that feeling when you lay on your bed for three hours and listen to the same album you’ve heard a thousand times and contemplate your place inY the universe? Have you wondered what that would be like as a video gamer? Well, keep wondering because “No Straight Roads” is a rhythm-based hack-and-slash game from a Malaysian based developer, Metranomik. The plot is simple. Mayday and Zuke’s band, Bunk Bed Junction, was publicly mocked on television by the EDM producers of NSR, so our heroes decide to go on a crusade in the name of rock and roll. This element of the story is woven into the game in a fun way. As you fight the boss and gradually whittle down their health, the music changes In NSR, Mayday uses her guitar to bludgeon her enemies. Coachella is NINTENDO going to be crazy this year. from club music to classic rock. When the boss runs out of health, Mayday and Zuke deliver a finishing blow own, but they do put a damper on things. been better utilized, but I would be lying if I said I didn’t reminiscent of the “All-Out Attacks” from “Persona 5.” NSR sidesteps the game play issues by letting you restore enjoy NSR. In NSR, gamers play as Mayday and Zuke, two up-and- your health to full and try again whenever you die, at the It’s rough around the edges. The game play is formulaic coming musicians who use the power of rock to strike back cost of reducing your rank on the Boss Fight to a “C.” and bland in many places. Still, when it came together, I at the electronic dance music (EDM) authority of Vinyl The game isn’t difficult per-say, but if you’re the type of was moving my head to the beat and feeling the adrenaline City. Enemies and bosses attack you in patterns based on person who likes to get high scores in games like “Devil build up as that familiar rock tune signified the boss was the beat of the song playing in the background, so jamming May Cry” or “Bayonetta,” then NSR will aggravate you to almost defeated. along to the wonderful soundtrack helps you get better at no small amount. Mayday and Zuke fight back because they love music the game. Metronomik’s debut title isn’t taking any awards home and being a part of the culture of their city, but passion Every boss feels unique and has a magnificent in the game play department. It’s clunky, but if you’re on can’t take you everywhere. I won’t spoil the ending, but presentation, but when it comes to the core game play board with the style and characters, then the game play is Bunk Bed Junction learns the value of music to inspire of running, dodging, attacking and exploring the levels, just serviceable to bring you to an end. change within their community. things fall apart. Every time the game play was starting to wear on me, It’s a feel-good game with a wide range of musical styles The camera stays at a fixed angle, making it impossible NSR brought me back with it’s fun, cheeky character and influences that shape the game as a whole. The entire to see enemies behind you. Jumps allow for minimal interactions and expressive animations. soundtrack has even been dubbed in multiple languages course correction when a character is already airborne. NSR has the texture of an anime from Studio Trigger. with a level of care and dedication put into each localization Fighting ranged enemies is a chore since only specific foes The battles are larger than life and filled with intriguing that I’ve never seen in a game before. drop ammunition to fight them. The list goes on. imagery that brings the settings to life. Mayday and Zuke For $40, you could do a lot worse. I wouldn’t recommend The game is also plagued by a multitude of bugs and also get a surprising amount of development as they NSR to everyone, but if you are in the mood for an upbeat, glitches—missing textures, infinite boss phases, falling off defeat more bosses and liberate more of Vinyl City. Some inspiring journey with some great music to boot, then go the map, etc. None of them ruin the experience on their dialogue-heavy sections can overstay their welcome and rock the town. many of the background NPCs feel like they could have

Netflix Brings Culture Back Oh Covid, What Have You Done BY MAURIAH JOHNSON BY KELLY LANGEVIN the umpteenth person that day. After an exchange of LIFESTYLE EDITOR SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR unpleasant words, the man left and did not return. I thought to myself, “thank God,” because I did not fter Netflix launched its “Strong Black Lead” section in y stomach rumbled with shaking hands want to serve that guy. But as I turned around, thinking February, the anticipation for its release of seven series hits as the wheels of my car turned into the I was lucky, a party of 10 walked in equipped with their from the ‘90s to the 2000s has finally arrived. parking spot that I anxiously chose. I went AOn August 1, the trailer began with “Moesha” (1996-2001); the show masks. onM to search my car for the waitress apron that hadn’t According to CDC and our corporate office, the revolves around the life of a fashionable teen named Moesha [Brandy] been touched since March. restaurant cannot seat more than five people at a table struggling with friends, relationships and losing her role as the female It had been three months since I was furloughed unless one is an infant. head of the household after her dad marries her high school teacher. from my job because of corona virus but finally, it was The host kindly explained their family can be seated “Moesha” has six full seasons that were enough of a binge for the rest time to return. but at separate tables and was not allowed to get up and of your summer or held you up until September 1 when “Sister, Sis- “Frick, where’s my mask?” I annoyingly asked keep talking to each other because of social distancing ter” came in full force. myself, praying I didn’t leave it at home. around other guests. They agreed and were seated. Many may not know of “Moesha,” but “Sister, Sister” (1994-1999), I reached below to pull out my black mask with “Hi guys, welcome can I take your order?” I asked starring Tia and Tamera Mowry is a classic and where “go home Roger!” bright red chili peppers, put it on and walked into the first table of adults who were standing and not all began. In the midst of a hectic shopping day, the long lost twins finally work, hoping that I wouldn’t feel lost. sitting. meet each other while arguing with a confused Frenchman over Tia’s “Are you kidding? I waited this long for my food “No, we need a minute,” one woman replied. “sweat-er” and Tamera’s “sweat-shirt” — you’ll have to watch the very first and it looks like this. I want a full refund,” a tall, angry As I walked back over to my manager, I told her the episode to get that one. blonde woman with a pixie haircut yelled to my table would not sit down. Re-watching the show now as an adult, there are some quite predict- manager at the To-Go station. I definitely didn’t feel “They’re protesting,” my manager explained. “They able moments from the adopted twins, but there’s you’ll remained enter- lost anymore. can’t be seated together. They’re protesting.” tained by Jackée Harry’s hilarious comebacks and stellar belt collection. Boom, welcome back to food service. My job has always been more than writing down My personal favorite is the timeless classic “Girlfriends,” (2000-2008) It was a weird feeling that day: wearing a mask that an order, serving food or scraping the unwanted pieces starring Joan (Tracee Ellis Ross) and her hilarious girlfriends: Maya, Toni muffled my already soft-spoken voice and sporting into the trash. My job has consisted of listening to and Lynn. We can’t forget William, as he is the only man casted in the over-sized working gloves was not my familiar work customers, the good and the bad, and being told I do series as the main character. attire. The day consisted of dropping my pen one too my job very well or plain awful. Netflix released the series this month and it has been nothing but many times and accidentally writing a whole order But with COVID being added into an already greatness — granted the episodes are only 20 minutes. The show is com- in complete gibberish because my hands were simply chaotic setting, the new wave of reality has not set in plete as these beautiful women of color portray stories that are just too not at ease, followed by staring at the menu again and on everyone yet. real to relate to; with Joan as the controlling lawyer, Toni (her best friend) again due to my nerves. Though I was away from my job for three months, as the Fresno gal that just got rich, free-spirited — and unemployed Oh COVID, what have you done? it didn’t take me long to realize Covid-19 has changed — Lynn and Joan’s unpunctual, dutiful assistant Maya it’s no wonder the I spent the day sanitizing every table that was open just about everything I thought I knew. And with show ran for eight years. over and over again —even cleaning the tables that every shift I walk in wearing a mask, feeling ready to From issues of racism, middle-aged dating, betrayal and just life, the were taped off to maintain the restaurant’s 50 percent embrace the new chaos that will come my way, there eight season series will take you through a roller coaster of emotions and capacity. The only thing that COVID made easier at is always people with T-shirts high above their noses make you want to call up your girls and your best guy-friend to get the my job was the pay-at-table tablets. and the families who try to protest the restaurant life advice you didn’t know you needed, or wanted. After a few hours went by, wearing a mask to rules. Stay tuned for the rest of Netflix’s “Strong Black Leads” coming soon: keep myself and others safe didn’t phase me. It was When my shift ended and my wheels turned out to different, but not impossible. leave the parking lot, I glanced back at the brightly lit Oct. 1: “The Parkers” “Sir, your T-shirt over your face does not count as restaurant and let out a heavy sigh. Oct. 15: “Half & Half” a mask,” the restaurant host exhaustively explained to “Oh, COVID,” I said. “What have you done?” Oct. 15: “One on One” 12 October 30, 2020 LIFESTYLE THE RECORDER Q & A: How To Survive Being Home for emotional health), with indoor/outdoor you can get the specifics such as watching the the week and create a forum for mediation. BY CHRISTOPHER CACERES activities, activities with others via the web rest of the family on certain days for certain Know there will be times when everyone CONTRIBUTOR and alone, and hopefully a number of them hours and not letting that become every time is frustrated and this may be the time for a being free. Then pick the peak times and use you are home. Keep your eyes on today and game of Monopoly or baking cookies — or many students, college is their first the tool in the toolbox and monitor whether tomorrow. anything just to get rid of some of the tension. time away from their family. The or not the tools worked. The mediation needs to occur when everyone corona virus pandemic created a need Q: How can students stay motivated while is at their best, or at least willing to listen. If Ffor remote learning, which can be challenging Q: Just because there is a pandemic does remote learning? nothing works, have people repeat back for some. not mean the desire to socialize and be what they just heard the other person say so Sure, it’s nice having cooked meals and a typical college student has gone away. How A: You won’t be able to stay as motivated at communication is clear. perfectly folded shirts that smell like a cross should students deal with the feelings of least not in the same way as before COVID. I between lavender and childhood, but losing FOMO (fear of missing out) and depression? would encourage thinking about how you get Q: What should students know about how the sense of independence that comes from motivated and then working off that create their parents or guardians are feeling during moving away to college is irreplaceable. A: To deal with FOMO, remind yourself new ways. Look to completing the next this pandemic? It’s a weird feeling experiencing the first that today’s sacrifice is tomorrow’s freedom. assignment so you can move closer to your day of college from the dinner table while Be realistic, you will miss out on some of the degree, or to complete the class. Do an activity A: They should know parents and your mom makes dinner and tells you to college experience, as everyone is missing out countdown for the semester so you can see guardians are just as lost as they are in sit up straight, and your little brother keeps on socializing and events in life. However, your progress. A major factor in motivation muddling through the pandemic. The added asking your help with fractions, all while your know that you are preparing yourself for when is to thinking about most things as shifting, pressure of having to have answers when dog barks at the neighbor’s dog outside. the pandemic is over and we go into Normal as fluid. The reason for this is everything is there are none can be anxiety provoking. If any portion of this hits home, here 2.0. For those who are taking a semester off, changing, the times of classes meeting, the Also know, if the grandparents are still alive are some tips from Dr. Jonathan Pohl, they will be in college with a slightly younger format, the syllabus, the professor’s passion this creates an added burden as they are not Coordinator of Wellness Education at Central crowd. For those who are still partying, you for teaching and especially technology and able to interact with them as they normally Connecticut State University. are “socially cheating” yourself and others. accessibility. Allow yourself the opportunity would — fearing that COVID could strike at You are able to socialize now but it is costing to move with the changes, as fighting them any time. Q: How do students maintain their sense everyone else more time in the midst of the will only impair your motivation. Keep a of independence while living at home? pandemic. The more people socialize now, journal of your life so you can let it out and Q: How can students connect with the longer we have to wait for the pandemic return to it when facing adversity. someone at CCSU to help them through this A: Students, more often than not do not to become manageable. The pandemic has stressful time? maintain independence unless living in a brought a level of depression to everyone, Q: How do students stay focused on space that has its own entrance, such as a how much depends on the person. To work schoolwork when there are so many A: They can connect to Counseling, which “mother-in-law” apartment. Often students on the depression, find small things that are interruptions and distractions, like siblings is extremely helpful, to get tips on reducing find themselves being treated less like an pleasing to you and focus on them. Make and parents? anxiety and have someone who is not biased adult and more like a high school student. time for friends and family if only in virtual to talk to about problems or concerns. There I encourage students to have a sit-down life and make plans for when this is all over A: These are out of the normal distractions. are clubs and events still taking place on meeting with parents to review an updated – even if for 2022. If the depression persists, There isn’t anyone running through your class campus and everyone should keep on eye out set of rules to living in the house. The seek out Counseling 860-832-1926. yelling about needing a bowl of Cheerios, for things to do, taking necessary precautions. students describe their capacity to accept except maybe the virtual-acting class. Try to Professors can help with projects that could responsibility and try to get freedoms to Q: Being back at home may feel like find the humor in this. Nobody will believe forward the academic career. There are a match. Some parents will not budge, but moving backward in life. How do students this world existed, but it does. The next thing number of resources available to find ways most will make accommodations. deal with thoughts like this? is to try to set boundaries. My children have to manage. In Wellness we have tips on their schedules on their doors, so I know managing emotionally, behaviorally and Q: How should students deal with feeling A: Especially, if parents are treating you when not to interrupt them. There are perks socially while coping with COVID. I have a anxiety during an unprecedented semester? like you are back in high school, checking in being home and allow those no-rent, free twitter account under @janothapohl2 and on homework, etc, always react as if you food perks to be the focus when ultimately there is an Instagram account @ccsuwellness. A: The first step would be to monitor their were out on your own — “no need to check frustrated with interruptions. If you can set anxiety level. The average person during the on homework – it’s done”. Try to make it regular school times, that will help avoid Q: Lastly, any closing thoughts on this pandemic has been feeling more anxious, and feel more like going home to save money for some interruptions, but not all – family semester and whys students can get through this has led to difficulty sleeping, eating and an apartment, put some money in the bank members will adjust to your schedule. it. organizing. I would want the person to place toward that for when this is over. Remind their anxiety on a scale of 1-10, one being the yourself of your ultimate goal, the degree, and Q: Can you share tips for mediation when A: Stay focused and know there are others least anxious and 10 the most — monitoring then think about when that will happen. Even there is a dispute with a family member? out there struggling as well. We need to be a the anxiety several times a day. I would print out a calendar for May (fill in the year) community. also want them to make a list of activities and put it up where you can see it. If family A: The first step is to have weekly family that would reduce the anxiety (a toolbox needs you to help around the house, see if meetings to share the ups and downs of Crossword WORDS

RECREATIONS SOCCER KARDASHIANS AMAZON PRACTICE BUDGET TRACKING QUARANTINE HYFLEX CULTURE RESIDENCE DARCY 13 October 30, 2020 THE RECORDER SPORTS BEGINS ON BACK PAGE Volleyball Back in Action: A Dive Into Practice in a Pandemic

Volleyball is back to full team practices after doing a few LINDA SAGNELLI There is no way that games will be played this year, but the LINDA SAGNELLI weeks of smaller groups. hope is that there will be a season in the spring.

BY RYAN JONES during a pandemic is still hard to imagine. What could that improvement while also putting an emphasis on getting MANAGING EDITOR possibly look like? out there and having fun, according to Sagnelli. Well, it all starts from the schedule, and it is certainly a “We don’t have to work as much on systems because we he fall season is postponed and having one in the tightly run one. don’t have a game coming up in a week or two,” Sagnelli spring is merely speculation to this point. Still, First, the team had to be broken up into bubbles. Sagnelli said. “Through it all I want them to have fun and I think CCSU volleyball is working like they’ve got a and assistant coach Matthew LaSance both run groups of thats really important. The players love to scrimmage and gameT tomorrow. In these extremely abnormal times, this five on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Both groups meet play in competitive games so we’re gonna be doing more might be the most normal thing we’ve got. at separate times so that the gym and equipment is all of that and a lot less coach controlled drills.” Last week, volleyball started practice on campus in sanitized. Greg Shell, also assistant coach, holds practice Sagnelli also said there are plenty of benefits to taking small groups of 3-5. Though the plan is for all fall sports on Tuesday and Thursday with a group of three players this approach. “There are more unexpected things. You can to do the same, volleyball is currently the only team to get who live off campus. learn so much through play and that’s what we’re gonna fully cleared by health services. As the athletes walk into Kaiser Hall, they should have focus on this fall. We want everyone to stay engaged.” Because the process of getting fall athletes cleared already completed their daily symptom test, which is So far, so good for Sagnelli, who said the team’s normally is done from spring through the summer, having subsequently shown to their coach. intensity has not changed in the slightest. to do it all at once has caused some bumps in the road in From there, there is less of a schedule and more so “You would never know it if you walked into the terms of getting everyone cleared. guidelines the team abides by. Coaches stay 6+ feet away gym that anything was different,” Sagnelli said. “They Sagnelli said that health services “did a phenomenal from the players and masks must be worn for the entirety are practicing with the same intensity, the same love for job in such a surreal environment. They were able of practice. the game, they’re great teammates to each other, they’re to methodically go through their checklists and clear Players are given a mask and water break during wonderful to coach and I think thats inspiring.” everybody.” This year, there were multiple stages of the practice as well. After sanitizing their hands, they leave Across the country, the blame for the uptick in testing done online. the building and space themselves out to safely drink and COVID-19 cases has been lumped onto college students. When the athletes returned to campus, they quarantined get some mask-less outdoor air. Throughout practice the Sagnelli explains how her players hope to change that together in a dorm for two weeks. Sagnelli said this was balls are sanitized frequently. stigma. critical for the team’s bonding and chemistry, something Once the second week of practice is complete, the team “They’re doing the best that they can given all of these she has instilled as the standard for her teams. will be moved into the next phase, which allows them to parameters that they have to deal with,” Sagnelli said. In a normal year, volleyball would have been having practice in larger groups of about 12-13. For volleyball, “You see a lot of news that is negative towards the college team dinners, team building exercises and other off the this means the full team will be practicing together (13 on aged student but it’s also an opportunity for college age court activities. “That’s when you really learn about each roster). students and specifically our student athletes to actually other,” Sagnelli said. However, through the “quarantine A season without games is a strange one for sure, even lead the way. This can be a positive.” dorm,” Sagnelli said the team was still able to find that for Sagnelli. Sagnelli has no doubt in her mind that her team will connection. “Even if it’s a normal year, each year is different than remember this strange season for the rest of their lives. “They were bonding with themselves for 14 days,” the one before it. As coaches we always look at years as She is also confident their actions will be remembered for Sagnelli said. “It just presented itself in a different fashion separate,” Sagnelli said. “With that said, this year brings good. “To look back and remember how positive you were this year, that’s all. Our players are still our players and new challenges. We are very hopeful that we will have through adverse situations can really say a lot for your they’re very warm and welcoming. The bonding just came a season, albeit in the spring, but that’s hope. When you character and the character of the team.” in a different manner, a quarantine dorm, as opposed to have hope that can really be inspiring.” A season in the spring is only speculation at this point. what we normally do.” Apart from the safety measures, what teams are doing Still, CCSU volleyball is hard at work like they’ve got a Even with all of the planning, the idea of practice in practice also differs this year than others. The goal game tomorrow, perhaps the most normal thing we can is to improve on strength, conditioning and individual look to in these increasingly abnormal times.

Seniors will be granted an extra year of eligibility. There are five on CCSU’s roster. LINDA SAGNELLI 14 October 30, 2020 SPORTS THE RECORDER OPINION Sports and Politics Were Never Separate, and They Never Should Be of sports most iconic-and darkest-moments BY RYAN JONES are born from it: MANAGING EDITOR America in 1968 was reaching a boiling point. Tommie Smith and John Carlos, both he National Basketball Association runners for that summer’s U.S. Olympic brought the sports world to a halt last team, literally used their platform to send a week when the players had a unified message. After taking first and third in the Tboycott of their playoff games. Like every men’s 200-meter event, Smith and Carlos other time an athlete has used their massive raised their fists to the sky as the national platform to promote social equality in anthem played. The two lowered their America, it was met with some disdain. fists as the song ended, but the moment “Shut up and dribble.” had already cemented itself in history. Just “Stick to sports.” five months after Martin Luther King Jr.’s Faultfinder “fans” often reiterate these assassination, Smith and Carlos were booed phrases, but those phrases are founded in by the crowd. Smith went on to say, “If I win, falsity. Sports were never a separate entity of I am American, not a black American. But if I A group of Cuban baseball players from the Negro League Red Sox in BASEN the world around it and throughout history did something bad, then they would say I am the dugout together during a 1951 home game. has blurred the lines between politics and a Negro. We are black and we are proud of runner of all time, all while in the land of a dominated in the majors had it been possible. sports. being black. Black America will understand dictator who believed his race to be physically Even when players did integrate, “smooth” is The reason behind the NBA’s recent what we did tonight.” The International inferior. Unlike his white teammates on the the last word I’d use to describe the transition. boycott stems from police brutality and Olympic Committee was outraged, though U.S. Olympic team, Owens was not invited Robinson and the other African American specifically the murder of Jacob Blake. Players IOC President Avery Brundage had no to the White House by President Franklin D. players who had integrated into baseball now around the NBA have been protesting this problem with Nazi salutes during the 1936 Roosevelt. had a target on their backs. They were now and showing support for Black Lives Matter Olympics, which brings me to... If sports are truly some sort of escape free to play the sport they love but now fans, since the season restarted in June. If 1968 was a boiling point, 1936 was a from reality, then why was baseball just as managers and fellow players hurled death But this is not the first time that America’s volcano. Though a few years removed from segregated as the rest of America? While threats and racial epithets at them with every ingrained racism has forced athletes to push the start of World War II, Adolph Hitler’s the story of Jackie Robinson is sometimes step up to the plate. There was nothing equal sports to the back-burner. reign over Nazi Germany was in full effect, portrayed as an endearing turning point, it’s about the treatment African Americans got That alone is so frustrating to imagine: making Berlin easily the strangest setting more essential to note why Robinson joining in the MLB. countless people have used their platform imaginable for the 1936 Olympics. Though a major league franchise was so important. So often we hear the phrase “history to speak out against racism over the years. the NAACP had advised a boycott, American While Major League Baseball was seen repeats itself.” Whether you are criticizing Now we are seeing their children and runner Ted Owens took the track and took as America’s pastime, the Negro Leagues protest or staying silent today, you are grandchildren fighting for that same cause. the crowd gathered by storm. Owens won (comprised of African and Latino Americans) complicit in this version of history repeating Social issues are just as embedded in our four gold medals that day and cemented his were shunned as the ugly stepsister. Players itself for African Americans as it has for the sports as they are our daily lives. In fact, some legacy as possibly the greatest track and field like Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson could have past 400 years. Mick D’Arcy “Closes the Book” on 2019 Championship, Looks Ahead to Another

Mick accepting his award last season after the women’s soccer championship victory. RYAN JONES BY RYAN JONES Before he fully closed the book on last season, D’Arcy did When asked about the possibility of “defending the title” MANAGING EDITOR take a point from one chapter with him to bring along this year. won last year, D’Arcy explained that that is not a phrase he is ick D’Arcy has plenty to be proud of from his time “Last year was a fantastic season on many levels,” D’Arcy a fan of. “There is a trophy in Kaiser Hall that says 2019 NEC coaching CCSU women’s soccer. But he doesn’t said. “As a coach you always want to maximize the potential of Champions on it. We don’t need to defend it. That’s the job dwell on that much. your team and I think we did that last year.” of Campus Security. I trust that they won’t let anyone steal it,” M“Each year is a new beginning and I’ve always thought it best It’s hard to argue against that. After their first conference loss D’Arcy said. to close the book on the previous year and start fresh,” D’Arcy on October 3, the Blue Devils did not lose another game until While the future is uncertain as ever, D’Arcy and the Blue said. the November 22. Devils are still hopeful that there will be a season played out in So far, that plan seems to work well for D’Arcy and the Blue After their run through the regular season and NEC Playoffs, the spring. D’Arcy acknowledged the hurdles in the way of that, Devils. D’Arcy has coached CCSU to eight NEC Championships the Blue Devils took down Rutgers in the NCAA Tournament but trusts the dedication of his team to overcome them. in his 20 year tenure including two in the past two seasons. before their season ended against West Virginia in a 1-0 double “There is a huge responsibility on our students to be socially There are tons of stats you could pull to show how successful overtime loss. responsible over the next few months,” D’Arcy said. “But they CCSU women’s soccer has been over the last two decades, but The loss was heartbreaking, but there was still much to understand what is at stake here. They want to play. You don’t there is one in particular I find both trivial and mind blowing. celebrate going forward. From then on, D’Arcy said his team get to be an elite Division I student athlete without making Freshmen on the 2002 team only knew success. No, really. knew “that we were able to compete at that level and we were sacrifices and having self-discipline. Obviously there are some From 2002 to 2005, CCSU won the Championship every year. good enough to advance to the Sweet 16. So this year our goal factors outside of our control but we plan on doing everything On the other side of this, an incoming freshman on any other was not so much to advance further in the NCAA Tournament we need to do so that we can compete this year.” NEC team in 2002 did not fair as well. but to once again maximize our potential, leave it all on the field and see where that takes us.” 15 October 30, 2020 SPORTS THE RECORDER NCAA Announces Start of College Basketball Season

Teams can officially begin playing games on November 25. GEORGE ATTWOOD There will be a games played, but things The empty campuses will be used as an play in 13 games to be eligible for the BY RYAN JONES will not look like a typical season. impromptu “bubble” for basketball players, NCAA Tournament, the latter possibly a MANAGING EDITOR Games will start on November though the term bubble has specifically decision made factoring in the realities of he winter sports season is back on 25 instead of the originally planned not been used by the NCAA so as to avoid the pandemic. For a basketball team, one after the NCAA Division I Council November 10 date. This was done because confusion. positive test could wipe out an entire team approved the start date for both most schools are sending students home Teams are required COVID-19 testing for a few weeks and with an already shorted Tmen’s and women’s basketball season. after Thanksgiving for the remainder of the three times per week. This includes players, season, makeup games may be hard to semester. coaches, trainers and anyone else the team come by. would be interacting with during the The NCAA recommended that schools season. For CCSU this number is right play in at least four non-conference games. around 30 tests given three times a week. For CCSU, these games are crucial for the A problem some schools may face is athletic department. Before the pandemic, the cost of testing. CCSU may be looking the men’s team was scheduled to play in into cheaper testing possibilities than their guarantee games against Virginia Tech current tests, which cost over $100 per and UConn. If both of these games are still person. Cheaper tests run the risk of false played, it’s likely that the revenue made will positives/negatives, but the belief is that be less than originally planned. such a high volume of testing each week The men’s team was also slated to play will weed out any false reads. in three non-conference games as part of As of now, no schedule is in place for an event at Rutgers. Originally scheduled who CCSU will be playing or when, but the for November 10, this may be out of the belief is that there will not be much travel question as well for the new season. this year due to the pandemic as well as At this time there is no information spending. on a start date for CCSU and the rest of Both the men’s and women’s teams have the Northeast Conference, however the already started practicing on the court in NEC has met twice already to discuss small pods and masks. Full team practices possibilities and is scheduled to meet on will start up on Wednesday, October 15. September 30. All signs at the moment The maximum number of games a point to a December start to the regular Once the basketball season starts, the empty JULIA JADE MORAN team can play is 27, down from the usual season. campuses will act as an impromptu “bubble” for 31. Along with this, teams only need to basketball players. Ryan McCarthy Gives Thoughts On a Football-less Fall BY RYAN JONES though it has not distracted him from the MANAGING EDITOR things he misses from the game. “What drives us as coaches is being ollege football is deeply entrenched around players,” McCarthy said. “They give in the culture of almost every us energy.” American university. A fall semester McCarthy is in no rush to send out the Cwithout it seems just crazy enough for Blue Devils in the midst of a pandemic and 2020, but the postponement of the season has focused on being “openly transparent” is equally as historic as it is telling of the with his players about the current state of state of the world today. the team. In CCSU’s official record book, the Towards the end of last semester, Blue Devils’ season record is listed year McCarthy said he told his team that he had by year, dating back to CCSU’s inaugural “no idea what things were going to look 1935 season (which was only three games like” going forward. in length). There’s one gap from then to “I didn’t think there was going to be the now, with only four words used to explain inordinate amount of spikes that we saw in the break from 1942-45: “No teams - War the country,” McCarthy said, “but I didn’t Blue Devil football will continue to safely workout JULIA JADE MORAN y e ar s .” feel good about the season and to be honest and prepare for what comes next. What phase will delineate this year? with you, a lot of the kids didn’t feel good fall? We’re talking about health and safety, “You can’t just throw them on the field “No teams - COVID years”? When CCSU about it either. They had health concerns as you’re going to play 20 games in a year? I right away,” McCarthy said. “With injuries football inevitably returns, what will the well, as they should.” don’t know how that works,” McCarthy and how the game is played I don’t think state of college football look like? How can McCarthy said he is mostly against the said. it’s in anyone’s best interest to throw them coaches ensure the safety of their players idea of playing a full season this spring and In lieu of the tremendous workload back out there.” while still running a tight ship on the field? questioned the logistics of it. of having two seasons in a single year, Instead, McCarthy said “we need to There are countless questions and “What is it gonna look like? Are you McCarthy proposed that the team plays in gradually work into it and formulate a hurdles college football coaches will have going to play in the spring and then play a number of scrimmages with teams from plan. I think the plan is let’s play in the to face before college football can return. in the fall? How many games are you going around New England akin to high school fall. Go through the spring, play a couple CCSU football head coach Ryan McCarthy to play in the spring and then play in the football jamborees. “Just to grease the of exhibition games and then take it from has been busy facing these hurdles himself wheels a bit,” McCarthy said. t h e re .” 16 October 30, 2020 SPORTS THE RECORDER The Monetary Toll of a Sports-less Semester BY RYAN JONES schools like CCSU get paid to play in. CCSU men’s basketball was scheduled athletic department. Donors play a huge MANAGING EDITOR This fall, CCSU football was scheduled to play at UConn and Virginia Tech, both role in the department’s funding, though to play in a guarantee game against Toledo. of which presumably would be guarantee opportunities for fundraising have also s Central Connecticut State That game would have made CCSU games. If these games are still to be played, been effected by the pandemic. University faces the loss in revenue athletics $325,000, which alone accounts the money coming in would be significantly Two of the biggest revenue drawing from online learning, their athletic for roughly a third of all revenue in the less than what was worked out before. events, a wine tasting and golf tournament, Adepartment grapples with another loss of department in a given year. In a normal year, men’s basketball brings could of course not be held this year due revenue, a semester without games. The In a typical year, football will bring in $408,000 in guarantee games, just shy to the pandemic. Pincince said one of the consequences of this could mean a loss of in $412,500 in guarantee games and an of the amount brought in by football. The things the department is working on is roughly $916,500 in expected revenue. additional $22,000 in ticket sales. team draws roughly $17,000 in ticket sales. other fundraising ideas. The department All of the games scheduled for Central With no games being played, the Women’s basketball typically brings in has also been hard at work securing and Connecticut this fall were off the table department does save the money that another $52,000 in guarantee game money maintaining their corporate sponsors. after the Northeast Conference announced would have been used for travel costs. and $5,000 in ticket sales. Central’s athletic department is a tightly the postponement of the season on July With football’s season gone, the Between guarantee games and ticket run ship and thanks to the low number of 9. Though there’s never a good time for a attention now is on basketball. The NCAA sales, roughly $916,500 is brought into employees have not had to face any issues pandemic, the loss of the fall sports season recently announced that there would be a the CCSU athletic department from with furloughs. in particular is brutal for college athletic season played, but with some parameters football and basketball alone. This number Sports are often seen as an escape from departments. For CCSU, it cost hundreds which we discussed in our story about the accounts for a majority of the profit made reality. In the entertainment that sports of thousands. college basketball season. in a year, which is true for all college bring us, we often forget the realities CCSU football brought in the most Basketball will be traveling as little and athletic departments. With half of that holding the foundation that is sports revenue in both guaranteed games and as close as possible this season. Even with gone already, the NCAA and its schools together, none of which bigger than money. outright ticket sales among all of the the chance of guarantee games, schools are are scrambling to put together some sort of Yes, college sports are entertaining and an school’s sports (based on average of past not doling out the money they typically season. important part of American culture. But three seasons obtained by the Recorder). would in a given year considering none of Guarantee games and ticket sales are of first and foremost, they are a business. Guaranteed games are road games played them know if fans will be allowed. course not the only money coming into the against upper-level schools in which NEC Soccer Pens Letter To NEC Commissioner BY RYAN JONES MANAGING EDITOR ollege football is deeply entrenched in the culture of almost every American university. A fall semester without it seems just crazy enough for 2020, but the postponement of the season is equally as historic as it is telling of the state of the Cworld today. In CCSU’s official record book, the Blue Devils’ season record is listed year by year, dating back to CCSU’s inaugural 1935 season (which was only three games in length). There’s one gap from then to now, with only four words used to explain the break from 1942-45: “No teams - War years.” What phase will delineate this year? “No teams - COVID years”? When CCSU football inevitably returns, what will the state of college football look like? How can coaches ensure the safety of their players while still running a tight ship on the field? There are countless questions and hurdles college football coaches will have to face before college football can return. CCSU football head coach Ryan McCarthy has been busy facing these hurdles himself though it has not distracted him from the things he misses from the game. “What drives us as coaches is being around players,” McCarthy said. “They give us energy.” McCarthy is in no rush to send out the Blue Devils in the midst of a pandemic and has focused on being “openly transparent” with his players about the current state of the team.

RYAN JONES Towards the end of last semester, McCarthy said he told his team that he had “no idea what things were going to look like” going forward. “I didn’t think there was going to be the inordinate amount of spikes that we saw in the country,” McCarthy said, “but I didn’t feel good about the season and to be honest with you, a lot of the kids didn’t feel good about it either. They had health concerns as well, as they should.” McCarthy said he is mostly against the idea of playing a full season this spring and questioned the logistics of it. “What is it gonna look like? Are you going to play in the spring and then play in the fall? How many games are you going to play in the spring and then play in the fall? We’re talking about health and safety, you’re going to play 20 games in a year? I don’t know how that works,” McCarthy said. In lieu of the tremendous workload of having two seasons in a single year, McCarthy proposed that the team plays in a number of scrimmages with teams from around New England akin to high school football jamborees. “Just to grease the wheels a bit,” McCarthy said. “You can’t just throw them on the field right away,” McCarthy said. “With injuries and how the game is played I don’t think it’s in anyone’s best interest to throw them back out t h e re .” Instead, McCarthy said “we need to gradually work into it and formulate a plan. I think the plan is let’s play in the fall. Go through the spring, play a couple of exhibition games RYAN JONES and then take it from there.”