Volume 95 • Issue 8
November 6, 2026
FSUgatepost.com
Blue wave sweeps nation
Massachusetts voters elect legislators and answer nine ballot questions By Dylan Pichnarcik Editor-in-Chief
tion. According to the Associated Press (AP), 54 of 100 Senate By Avery Slavin seats will be held by Democrats News Editor during the next session of Congress. Two Senate seats are unThe Democratic Party has decided at time of publication. regained control over both the Democrats flipped Senate House and Senate, flipping key seats in several states, includstates in the 2026 midterm elec- ing Ohio, Kansas, Texas, Maine,
North Carolina, and South Carolina. In the House of Representatives, Democrats are also projected to regain control with at least 234 seats, according to AP. Two hundred eighteen seats held by one party are required for a House majority. In Massachusetts, Democrat
Maura Healey won another term as governor, defeating Republican challenger Mike Minogue. According to AP, Healey has received 1,623,656 votes as of press time, a 62.2% lead over Minogue’s 901,849 votes. See ELECTION Page 3
Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve, and Theology Part of Dr. Tuffy Love Andrews gives lecture on Bible Drag
Swiacki Children’s Literature Festival postponed
By Dylan Pichnarcik Editor-in-Chief
Antonio Machado / THE GATEPOST Dr. Tuffy Love Andrews and feline stage partner in the Heineman Ecumenical Center on Oct. 29. By Antonio Machado Associate Editor Arts & Ideas hosted “Staging Belief: Performance, Identity, and Campus Encounters” on Oct. 29, in the Heineman Ecumenical Center. The event saw the return of Dr. Tuffy Love Andrews, known off stage as Professor Marc Settembrino, to discuss the tension caused by the surge of street evangelists on college campuses. Xavier Guadalupe-Diaz, professor of criminology, introduced Andrews as “a sociologist, performer, and community organizer whose work bridges academic scholarship,
activism, and drag.” He said Settembrino teaches courses on social movement, gender, sexuality, and social inequality and noted the importance of her message against the backdrop of the current political state of the world. He said,“The art of drag remains a flashpoint in contemporary politics, often serving as a proxy for broader anti-transgender and anti-queer politics, all part of a rising tide of neo-fascism, white supremacy, and authoritarianism extending far beyond our borders, reaching many parts of the world. Andrews took the stage and described herself as a scholar,
showgirl, and menace to higher education. She added that her presentation would focus on highlighting the intersections of drag and religious performance and her experiences with religious campus encounters as a queer person living in the Bible Belt. “I am a professor of sociology at Southeastern Louisiana University, and I began there in the fall of 2013. And halfway through the semester, a colleague of mine warned me. She said, ‘Before you go out to the quad, be aware - the wing nuts are here today,’” she said. See BIBLE DRAG Page 12
Soccer showdown
Some of the events of the Swiacki Children’s Literature Festival have been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, according to Liz Mazar Phillips, director of Alumni Relations. A new date has not been set for the events. This is the festival’s 40th-anniversary year. The two events, which were set for Nov. 5, included a lecture by renowned author Lois Lowry and the annual “What’s new in children’s literature?” talk. “We will continue the celebration of the 40th anniversary, perhaps this spring with her visit,” Phillips said. She added Lowry hopes to reschedule for a future date. Phillips said ticketholders for the event will automatically be signed up for the rescheduled date. The festival’s daytime workshops went ahead, with eight leaders conducting about 12 classes. The 40th-anniversary gallery exhibit is open through Dec. 11. CONNECT WITH DYLAN PICHNARCIK
dpichnarcik@student.framingham.edu
News SGA pg. 3 ELECTION pg. 3
Opinion FOOTBALL pg. 8 CROSS COUNTRY pg. 9
Sports PICHNARCIK pg. 5 LUSTER pg. 5
Arts & Features WICKER pg. 10 DIVA TALK pg. 11 Jack Holt faces off against a Roger Williams Hawks at a recent match.
Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST
INSIDE: OPINION 4 • SPORTS 7 • ART & FEATURES 10
NEWS
2 | NOVEMBER 6, 2026
Gatepost Interview David Case
OUR STAFF Editor-in-Chief Dylan Pichnarcik Associate Editors
Francisco Omar Fernandez Rodriguez
Antonio Machado News Editor Avery Slavin
Interim Asst. News Editors Audrey Rice Sydney Youde Sarah Parron Opinion Editor Alexis Schlesinger Sports Editor Taylor Kimmell Interim Asst. Sports Editor Andrew Louis Arts & Features Editor Sarah Daponde Interim Asst. Arts & Features Editor Louie Ranieri Photos & Design Editor Onyx Lovely Asst. Photos & Design Editor Christy Howland
By Sarah Parron Interim Asst. News Editor
Area Director of Miles Bibb
What is your academic and professional background? I graduated from Framingham State with a bachelor’s degree in 2009. I was an RA for 2 ½ years and I was a transfer student. Then I started working here in January of 2012. I was a residence director in O’Connor. I did that until the building closed as a residence hall in the spring of 2016, and then moved down to West Hall. I oversaw West Hall, Horace Mann Hall, and Peirce Hall, until the summer of 2025, when I moved over to Miles Bibb. What are some of your responsibilities that you have in this role?
I’m responsible for the day-toInterim Asst. Photos & Design day oversight of the residence life Editor program within the last signed Rose Hamilton residence - also Miles Bibb, in this instance. What that funcIllustrations Editor tionally translates to is supportTobias Cotton-Selman ing resident students who live in the building. I help them with Interim Illustrations Editor questions they might have about Marcus Falcão resources that we have on camInterim Asst. Illustrations Editor pus. Meghan Petrone If they tell me about problems we’re having, I point them toCopy Editor wards resources like CASA or the Cole Johnson dean’s office. I help them with roommate conflicts that they Staff Illustrators might have or other interperGrace Doyle sonal conflicts they might have Abi Little within the residence hall. I adjuSusay Toe dicate conduct cases. So if there’s a policy violation that someone Staff Writers may have committed, we meet Desiree Ambila Jesse Burchill with them to help support them Julien Fernandez through that process, but also Dan Lima to make sure they’re aware of Kate Norrish the impact that they are having Nathan Piette on possibly themselves, but also Izabela Gage the community. I oversee the seHeather Luster curity desk attendant staff and Andrea Zereski our resident assistant staff. So I Cooper Davis help the RAs with questions that Gracie Wyatt they might have about things Ollie Mainguy that we’re doing, or helping them with the programs that they plan Staff Photographers Julien Fernandez for the residency events that are Meg Dame in the residence hall to make sure that those programs are both fitAdvisors ting the needs of the residents, Desmond McCarthy but also it’ll get planned and be Sabrina Grammatic able to be accomplished. Asst. Advisor Elizabeth Banks
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TH E G A T E
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Asst. Advisor of Digital Engagement Ben Watanabe
Courtesy of David Case
that they’ve been here has been the stuff that you’re able to do. really meaningful and significant So when you start looking at to me. the end of your fall semester or your spring semester junior year, What are hobbies and activi- if there’s things you want to do, ties that you do outside of your the applications for them are job? open and that’s going to be the last time that they’re open for Outside my job, I love spend- you. For students who are freshing time with my dog. Playing men or sophomores, it’s to get fetch with her is great or going on involved. Join a club. Join an orhikes with her is really good. She ganization. Find the people that wrapped up her New Hampshire you want to be connected with 4,000 footers last summer over and who help support you in that on West Bond. So that was a fun journey, whether that’s people journey to get her there. who live on your floor, people in And then I enjoy riding my classes or professors or people bike, too. So I have a couple of who work here. It’s not a journey road bikes I enjoy and occasional- that you can make work on your ly, we’ll get out on my mountain own. Everyone here wants to see bike and enjoy some of the local you be successful, and you have trails. Both off-road, like moun- to reach out to those resources to tain bike trails, and then stuff be successful. like Bruce Freeman or Mass Central, and getting out on those. [You can follow David’s dog on Instagram @NieuportthegoldWhat is your favorite part of endoodle] this role? Do you have any advice for I really enjoy seeing students students? come in as freshmen and they get involved with things and they So, it depends a little bit, like, grow and they develop and they where they are on their journey. become their own independent Juniors - I’m always telling them person and then graduate. it seems like you’ve got all the CONNECT WITH And knowing that I’ve played a time left in the world, but the SARAH PARRON T THthat part @in the 4 years doors are starting to close with sparron@student.framingham.edu POS EGATEthrough
Police Logs @
T TH EGATEPOS
100 State Street McCarthy Center Room 410 Framingham, MA 01701-9101 Phone: (508) 626-4605 Fax: (508) 626-4097 gatepost@framingham.edu
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Monday, Nov. 2 8:22 Fire Alarm Corinne Hall Towers
Wednesday, Nov. 4 4:59 Welfare Check West Hall
NEWS
NOVEMBER 6, 2026 | 3
SGA welcomes guest speaker David Halbert By Audrey Rice Interim Asst. News Editor By Sydney Youde Interim Asst. News Editor SGA welcomed guest speaker David Halbert to discuss the new Rams Rewards program at a meeting on Nov. 3. David Halbert is the director of External Affairs at Framingham State University. As the coordinator of the Rams Rewards program, he collaborates with local restaurants to establish pop-ups in the dining hall at the University. He also sets up discounts for students, faculty, and staff at other local businesses. The list of locations where students can get discounts can be found on the Rams Rewards page on the Framingham State University website under Campus Life. On the Rams Rewards page, there are listed instructions on how to use the discounts. Some of the current discounted locations are Fresscafe, City Hall Pizza, and Starbella Spa. “We are trying to connect to places that are easier to get to, but there have been complications with the MetroWest Re-
Election
Continued from Page 1 AP reports that in Framingham, Healey received 16,100 votes. Minogue received 5,801. In addition to electing public officials, Massachusetts voters answered nine ballot questions. Question One is projected to pass. It asked whether the Massachusetts Public Records Law should be extended to most of the records of the Legislature and the Office of the Governor. It received 2,192,812 yes votes, an 85.9% lead. 359,524 voters opposed the question, according to AP.= Question Two asked whether workers with the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) are able to collectively bargain. This measure passed, with 1,565,246 voters saying yes, a 64.0% lead. According to AP, 999,052 votes were cast opposing the question. Question Three asked whether Massachusetts should establish an all-party primary system instead of the separated Democrat and Republican ballots. Question Three is projected to fail with 1,565,246 votes not in favor, or 61%, according to AP. Question Four asked whether citizens should be able to register to vote or update their voter registration on Election Day. Question Four received a projected approval of 1,444,852 votes, 56.3%, according to AP. Question Five asked whether the state revenue collection law should be altered so the state’s tax cap would be based on the prior year’s revenue collection, adjusted for growth in wages and salaries. Question Five is projected to fail with 1,324,385 votes against in a 52.3% lead. Question Six asks to create a Nature For All Fund that would use 50% and after July 1, 2028, all - of sales tax from the sale and use of sporting goods, recreational vehicles, and the use of golf courses, for natural re-
gional Transit due to changing routes,” said Halbert. Halbert expressed the importance of student voices and encouraged students to reach out with ideas for restaurant popups and business discounts. He can be contacted at dhalbert@ framingham.edu or found in his office in O’Connor Hall, room 309. SGA revisited the Onyx Literary Magazine’s request for funding for their merchandise giveaway event. After discussing the matter, it was determined that this event counts as a promotional item, meaning Onyx can only receive $1,000 as opposed to their original request of $4,357.50. Following this decision, SGA approved ASL Club’s request for $3,409.82 for their ASL Ball taking place on Nov. 20. WDJM 91.3, the student-run radio station, was reinstated as a club. Senator Cameron Higbie was first to motion to approve and senator Kennedy Thompson seconded it. The Pride Alliance and the Marketing Club had their constitutions reviewed. Both clubs were approved, pending the adoption of EXP’s edits. Three senators - Jayden Jef-
ferson, Merlin Clive, and AyaNour Belyazid - were appointed to the University Curriculum Committee as student representatives. Due to there being no SGA meeting the previous week, two senators were honored with Senator of the Week. First, Vice President Nathan Piette announced Khoa Búi as last week’s Senator of the Week, stating he “saved [SGA] from making a very expensive mistake” by highlighting SGA’s bylaw regarding promotional items. Events Coordinator Kait Eller then announced Jayden Jefferson as this week’s Senator of the Week. Eller stated Jefferson has been leading a cause for change by bringing “outside-of-Senate work into Senate” as she has been in charge of the initiative for improved gym equipment. Both senators received their certificates, pictures, and “U-Rock” rock after the conclusion of the meeting. SGA e-board members office hours: President Shubham Valand: Thursday - 2:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Vice President Nathan Piette: Monday - 12:30 p.m. to 1:30
p.m. Event Coordinator Kait Eller: Tuesday - 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Secretary Kimberly Martinez: Wednesday - 11:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. Parliamentarian Grant Alleyne: Monday - 11:20 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Treasurer Jobe Murphy: Wednesday - 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. D&I Coordinator Merlin Clive: by appointment only mclive@student.framingham. edu Publicist Cia Rosado: by appointment only - crosado2@ student.framingham.edu
source conservation. Question Six is projected to pass with 1,546,569, 60.8%, according to The New York Times. Question Seven asked whether the lot requirements for single-family homes should be set to 5,000 square feet across the state, except for Boston, which does not fall under Chapter 40A. Question Seven is projected to fail with 1,287,727 voters saying no, 50.7%, according AP. Question Eight asked if the state should ban recreational marijuana sales. The question is projected to fail with 1,962,036 individuals saying no, 75.6%, according to AP. The final question asked whether the 2024 state gun control law should be upheld. The question is projected to pass with 1,444,852 votes, a 56.3% lead. Junior Ria Padayachee said, “I’m very happy that most of the states are blue and we were able to turn Texas blue. People are waking up now and realizing, you know, the disaster of the 2024 election. I’m just hoping people stand on business and put their money where their mouth is.” Rachel Smyers, a sophomore, said she has “so much hope for the future. When I saw the results, I just felt a sense of freedom for not only my personal life, but for what I will be able to teach. I’m just feeling a lot of hope!” Sophomore Maddie Blette said for her and many others, the results of the midterm elections “brought much hope. Seeing representatives from all over the country with differing ethnicities, religions, and sexualities provides representation we haven’t seen much of, and shows us it doesn’t matter who you are - anything is possible. “Moving forward, I hope to see more resistance regarding the anti-DEI and anti-LGBTQ pressures being applied to
schools in certain parts of the country,” she added. Drew Moreira, a freshman, said, “I feel very positively about these results. For Democrats to have a majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives means to have guardrails against Trump in his consistent shenanigans: tariffs, tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy, or pulling funding from things that may not make the government money, like student loans, for example. “Yesterday, my friends and I discussed how the government is not going to give out student loans to certain majors because they don’t often pay them back, and how that’s dumb because out of the tiniest percentage of all the money the government spends on all the things in the country, the social benefit of people getting their college degrees is much more valuable. I think the Democrats’ majority power will allow for less outrageous policies to be allowed to pass, and instead, some that will improve the lives of the American people,” he added. Alyssa Shailor, a freshman, said she also feels “very good and positive about the results. Although I am not extensively knowledgeable in politics, I know that this is what is beneficial for our society. I look forward to seeing all the positive impacts of this election.” Geology professor Leslie Campbell allowed her class flexibility on Election Day. As a lab science professor, her class had the opportunity to attend the lab portion of the course throughout the day instead of during its specified run time. “Growing up, my parents instilled in me that it was really important to be able to have your vote matter, have your opinion count, right? And the best way to do that is to get out and vote. And so, I always like to make sure that if I can reasonably accommodate something
like that - it’s easy enough to do with the schedule that we have this semester.” English Professor Lisa Eck said she thinks the results represent “more than a partisan victory of one political party defeating another. I think it’s a value realignment.” She said she’ll “be waiting to see if a new Congress can intervene and turn around some of those policies” when it comes to the Department of Education. [ Editor’s Note: The information in this article is subject to change as ballots continue to be counted nationally and in Massachusetts. For the most up-todate information, visit www. apnews.com. ]
[ Editor’s Note: Nathan Piette is a staff writer for The Gatepost. ]
CONNECT WITH AUDREY RICE
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CONNECT WITH SYDNEY YOUDE
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CONNECT WITH DYLAN PICHNARCIK
dpichnarcik@student.framingham.edu
CONNECT WITH AVERY SLAVIN
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FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM
4 | NOVEMBER 6, 2026
OPINION THE GATEPOST EDITORIAL
Accountability and transparency should prevail On Tuesday, Massachusetts voters turned out in large numbers, voting on several questions on the 2026 ballot and electing new public officials. Question One, which asked voters if the Public Information Act should be expanded to include the governor’s office and the legislature, was near and dear to The Gatepost Editorial Board this election. As of press time, 2,185,943 voters approved this initiative, according to the Associated Press. That’s an 85.9% majority. Question One expands the Public Information Act to include documents held by both the legislature and the office of the governor. Under the initiative, these documents become reasonably accessible to the average citizen. Question One exempts certain documents relating to public policy and communications between legislators and constituents if they are related to a request for assistance. It would also promote governmental transparency in an age when misinformation is becoming synonymous with American politics. The approval of this initiative promotes transparency in government and proves Massachusetts voters see there are issues with access to public information in the state. Even though voters have spoken and expressed support for the ballot question, there’s more work to be done. Now, it’s in the hands of the legislature to respect the outcome of this vote. Unfortunately, politicians on Beacon Hill are attempting to undermine the power of voters. The changes proposed by Question One are set to go into effect in January, 2027. However, state lawmakers are working behind closed doors on their own version of a bill that undermines this vote, according to WBUR. The proposed bill puts the governor under the Public Records Act but limits access to public records held by the legislature. Well, that sends the right signal to the constituents who just sent you back to Boston, right? According to WBUR, lawmakers are arguing they should be able to control their own process due to the Massachusetts Constitution. Currently, public records are overseen by the secretary of state, an entity outside of the legislature. Why should the secretary’s office not be allowed to review lawmakers’ documents? It’s their responsibility to ensure the law is followed. The legislature is sending a bad signal to the people of Massachusetts that checks and balances don’t matter. The legislature and the executive office of the governor are two separate, but equal, branches of state government. There’s no reason why one should face more scrutiny than the other. At least we can count on Gov. Maura Healey in these coming weeks, who told Boston 25 News she would veto a potential rewrite of Question One. Massachusetts is the recipient of the not-so-distinguished 2026 Black Hole Award from the Society of Professional Journalists, which names government entities that demonstrate a lack of transparency and disregard for the public’s right to know.
A worthy distinction, given the blatant disrespect for the people of Massachusetts shown by the legislature in an attempt to undermine the voices of voters. According to WBUR, if the governor vetoes the proposed bill, the Senate and House still have the ability to approve their proposal through an override. We, The Gatepost Editorial Board, implore these bodies of government to stop any attempt to undermine the voices of voters. The benefits from the approval of Question One will be felt throughout the Commonwealth. Now is not the time to decide that some politicians can be required to follow the laws approved by voters while others don’t. Massachusetts is a predominantly “blue” state, yet the Commonwealth fails to recognize one of the guiding principles the Democratic Party has vehemently fought for since Donald Trump rose to power. The public expects a reasonable level of access to politicians and deserves answers as to how the government operates. The people of Massachusetts have spoken. If voters’ intentions aren’t respected, the next step might just be removing those in power in the next election. Maybe that will get the message across.
Unsigned Editorials reflect the opinion of The Gatepost Editorial Board, signed Op/Eds reflect the opinion of the writer.
The Gatepost welcomes signed letters to the editor sent to gatepost@framingham.edu. All letters are subject to review. @TheGatepost | FSUgatepost.com
OPINION
NOVEMBER 6, 2026 | 5
DYLAN PICHNARCIK COMMENTARY
An open letter to Donald Trump Dear Donald Trump, A few weeks ago, you called upon citizens to vote as if you were on the ballot. We did. Across the nation, there was a widespread rebuke of your power, proving that your tirade in Washington did not go unnoticed. But on Tuesday night, the walls of your ballroom came crashing down in a big, beautiful way. But it’s not all bad! Your legacy lives on. You’re the first president to see Texas turn blue in 32 years. That is history. But Texas isn’t the only place that took a stand: Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Ohio, North Carolina, and South Carolina saw something in your government and, to use your infamous words, said, “You’re fired.” Elections are more than a competition for power. They are a message. And this time, Americans have made them clearer than the crystal at Mara-lago. Voters are tired of political theater, tired of endless controversy and tired of promises that seem to benefit everyone except them. You asked Americans to make their voices heard. They did. But it’s OK. Everyone struggles at some point. You might want to consider changing your stance on Social Security, though. I’d lawyer up, too. Since I know it’s your favorite topic, let’s talk about Democrats. Over the next few years, you will face their scrutiny.
But hopefully, they won’t be hypocrites and will follow the laws of the United States, unlike you.
attacked the press and dismissed anyone who dared question your decisions. But the next few years might look a
Also, chances are you might not be dealing with Chuck Schumer, and maybe he’s not the guy who will finally take you out of Washington. But behind him are 53 other angry Democrats who will be the progressive champion the country wants. America has spoken and change is coming. Alajazeera reports that seven freshman senators have vowed not to back him as the next majority leader in the Senate. The progressive wave has hit the nation, and there’s certainly more coming. For years, you have treated accountability like an optional part of the presidency. You have challenged institutions,
little different. Congressional oversight is coming, and this time, you might not be able to simply call it a witch hunt and move on. I’d expect an eviction notice at some point soon, too. You’ve made a lot of enemies. The New York Times reports that about 56% of the U.S. population voted against you and your party. I’m sure you’ve got questions as to what went wrong. Blaming your party might make you feel better, but some time to reflect might provide a clearer answer. Maybe you should take a drive? According to AAA, gas in Washington D.C. is at $4.28 per gallon for regular fuel. But I’m sure you’re a premium kind
of guy, so you’ll have to pay about $5.29 per gallon. You promised Americans a better economy, cheaper groceries and a country they could afford to live in. Yet, for many families, those promises have remained just that, while you gilded the White House and flew on a plane worth a large fortune. If driving in silence doesn’t sound like it’ll help you, turn on the radio. Listen to newscasters as they remark about the unnecessary and illegal war you started in Iran. Oh, and while you’re thinking about the Middle East, give your friend Benjamin Netanyahu a call - he’s been on trial before. He’ll understand. Of course, he still has power. Yours just got cut in half. You asked Americans to vote as if you were on the ballot. They did. And while you may still occupy the Oval Office, the message from voters is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Your power is not permanent. You haven’t understood that from day one, but now it’s impossible to miss. So, Mr. President, enjoy the ballroom while you can. Your days of dictating are over.
Dylan Pichnarcik is a senior english major. He is Editor-InChief of The Gatepost. He can be reached at dpichnarcik@ student.framingham.edu
HEATHER LUSTER COMMENTARY
Beyond Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October has now passed, which means Domestic Violence Awareness Month has come to an end. However, conversations surrounding domestic violence should not come to an end with it. As I look back on the month, I realize how many people and resources - on and off campus - I became aware of, along with their events. There was the SHAPE Domestic Violence Resource Fair, local 5K’s, and a collective of wearing purple on Oct. 15 in support of survivors. Domestic violence is often discussed as something that happens in a home environment, but it is equally as important to discuss its presence in college communities and relationships. Many students are navigating relationships for the first time, and not being aware of the signs of unhealthy or dangerous relationships can lead to suffering. As a survivor myself, I find this topic is not spoken of enough. At first thought, many people assume that domestic violence refers to only physical abuse. But what many people don’t know is it includes stalking, financial, sexual, psychological, and emotional abuse as well. A lot of times, these types of abuse are interconnected and can occur together. This is what sometimes
makes it so difficult to realize someone is the victim of domestic violence. They’ll think to themselves that because they aren’t covered in bruises or experiencing
By the time I realized what I was going through, I felt like I was alone and no one would understand. I also had no idea who to turn to or where to go. I felt no one would believe me
physical harm, they are not the victim of abuse. However, abuse doesn’t need to leave physical marks on someone’s body to leave a lasting impact. The scars that domestic violence leaves are more deeply rooted in the mind, heart, and never-ending thoughts of “Why did this happen?” When I experienced domestic violence, it took me way too long to realize I was being abused prior to things getting physical. There were plenty of signs that things would lead to where they went - I just didn’t know what to look for.
and I could solve things on my own. Now, five years later, I look back at my younger self and wish I could have told her about the resources that surrounded her and how supportive people would’ve been. This is why being aware of resources, educating ourselves, and knowing where to turn before finding ourselves in these situations is important. Even if you think you may never end up in that position, someone you know might. As a society, we have become better at bringing focus to
certain topics with awareness days, weeks, and months. However, I tend to notice many of these topics get put on the back burner as soon as they have passed. Domestic violence is not a problem that occurs in October and disappears as the month ends. This is a problem that unfortunately continues to appear during the remaining 11 months of the year. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to bring attention and education to the signs of abuse, ways to support survivors, and where to turn should you ever find yourself or someone you care about in an abusive relationship. Awareness should not be something we only participate in when the calendar and social media make it prevalent. Survivors and victims deserve resources, support, and awareness all year long. So, even though October is over, I encourage people to continue learning, understanding, and engaging in the awareness and conversations surrounding domestic violence.
Heather Luster is a Staff Writer for The Gatepost. She is a psychology major. She can be reached at hluster@student. framingham.edu
FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM
OPINION
6 | NOVEMBER 6, 2026
SLAVIN AND ZERESKI - THE VERDICT
Parking problems: we have a “lot” to complain about When coming back to campus late at night, you’ll almost always find the Maynard Lot full, leading residents to have to park in Union Lot a mile from campus. This should not be a problem. However, after 11:45 p.m., the Ram Tram stops running. This leads students to call Campus Police for a ride - which ultimately feels like an inconvenience to them - or walk. Many students just park in Salem End Lot overnight to solve this issue with the intention of moving back to Maynard in the morning. Salem End Lot is designated to commuters for parking during the day, meaning it’s at its busiest from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Resident students have zero intention of taking these spots from the commuters. They simply just want somewhere to go for the night. If a resident’s car is not moved back to Maynard by the crack of dawn the next morning, they get punished with a ticket from campus police. It’s understandable, as they are parked in the wrong parking lot, but ticketing in the wee hours of the morning is a bit much. As women, walking the streets of Framingham from Union to campus is just a nogo, and we could be waiting for campus police for a long time before we get picked up.
Parking on campus is simply easier and safer.
Parking in Salem is against the rules, hence all the ticketing that happens, but in that case, why isn’t Maynard big enough to accommodate all upperclassmen? Considering our campus is mostly students from New England, many of them are driving distance from FSU, meaning they have their cars with them. Parking has been an issue on campus for years. Why hasn’t FSU found a better system for it? Putting freshmen in Union makes sense, as they are at the bottom of the priority list. Many colleges don’t even allow freshmen to bring their cars during their first year, so to have it nearby is a privilege in
itself. With that being said, upperclassmen who park in Maynard shouldn’t have to park in Union for overflow parking. Even allowing students to park in Maple Lot or the Athletic Lot is better than Union. Speaking of the Athletic Lot, overnight guests on weeknights are able to park there, with the general rule being the car must be moved in the early morning. If guests can park on campus essentially overnight, w h y can’t students? Union Lot is about 0.9 miles from the McCarthy Center, and even further from the residence halls, while the Athletic Lot is 0.3 miles - a quicker and safer walk in the chance someone can’t find a spot in Maynard. Also, with the price of parking passes being $250 for upperclassman residents, it’s extremely frustrating not being guaranteed a parking spot. If there’s a chance we have to walk a mile back to campus late at night, at least make the pass cheaper. Not only are there limited
spots in Maynard, it’s not well spread out. The rows of cars are too close together, as well as the actual spots. This faulty design has caused difficulty getting in and out of spots, even leading numerous students to post on anonymous apps begging to know who parked horribly or even who hit their cars. Even just driving through the lot, there is not enough space for two cars to pass each other going opposite ways. One person typically needs to slow down and move over a bit to allow the other person to pass. I guess there’s no winning when it comes to parking at FSU. We think there should be some kind of parking garage or bigger parking area to fit all students, or at least one area to fit all residents and one to fit all commuters. We can only dream. Our verdict: Don’t come back to campus past 9 p.m. on a weekday if you want a parking spot.
The Verdict is a recurring column written by Avery Slavin, News Editor of The Gatepost, and Andrea Zereski, a Staff Writer for The Gatepost. They can be reached at aslavin1@ student.framingham.edu and azereski@student.framingham. edu
Campus Conversations
“If you could study abroad in any country, where would you go?” By Alexis Schlesinger, Opinion Editor, Gracie Wyatt and Cooper Davis, Staff Writers
“Scotland! I like the architecture, the accent, the history, the mist - I like the mist! And I just want to see the Loch Ness monster.” - Santera Chicu, senior
“I would really like to go to Italy. I think there’s a lot of history to learn there. I also really like the architecture. It’s a very beautiful place. Also, it gives me an opportunity to learn a new language, which I think is really cool.”
“I would study in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I’ve actually been there before because I’m a Muay Thai fighter, and I went there and fought at Kalare Stadium in August.” - Ryley Guidry, junior
- Leticia Alves, junior
“Probably Italy. Italy has amazing art and it’s very pretty. The cuisine there is top tier.” - Ayden Giombetti, senior
“I would want to go to South America. More specifically, I’d want to go to Brazil. I’m really interested in the culture in Brazil, and I think it would be really cool to go there.” - Colleen Osci, freshman
@TheGatepost | FSUgatepost.com
“I’d say Italy. I have some heritage there, and my family goes there sometimes.” - Morgan Castellana, freshman
SPORTS
NOVEMBER 6, 2026 | 7
Mens ice hockey falls in home opener
By Taylor Kimmell Sports Editor
Despite gaining a 1-0 advantage early in the second period, the Framingham State Rams were unable to fend off the heavy, late-game pressure from the Southern New Hampshire State Penmen, dropping their home opener 4-1. This Oct. 31 non-conference match set the Rams’ overall record to 0-1. Sophomore Jonas Osterle said, “Despite the fact it wasn’t the result we wanted, it was amazing to get back on the ice as a group. This is what we work hard for all off season, so it feels good to get back into the routine and enjoy what you’re training for. Getting to see where that work is going in a game is always amazing, regardless of how it plays out.” Though the opening period saw plenty of action, neither team could find a way past the opposing goaltender. Framingham State goalkeeper and Captain Owen Swanbon, a senior, diverted all 13 of SNHU’s shots in the first period. In Southern New Hampshire’s net, Sean Guerin held strong against FSU’s eight attempts to find the back of the net. The Rams’ first opportunity came at 2:36, just a minute following the Penmen’s first shot. Swanbon saved SNHU’s next three shots as well, coming at the 4, 5:30, and 9-minute marks. The Rams attempted to score again, but the shot sent in by freshman Jack Kovacs was blocked by Guerin. Collecting the rebounded puck, freshman RJ Sember fired off another quick shot, but Guerin refused to let up. SNHU had three more shots in the following minute, but Swanbon deflected each of them. Following the third shot, the Penmen’s Ethan McLean was called for interference, and Framingham State began their first power play of the game. The Rams attempted to take advantage, but both sophomore Cullen Lacey’s and junior Michael Kennedy’s shots were unsuccessful. At 12:52, Framingham freshman Chris Otero was given a penalty for roughing, ending FSU’s power play. About 30 seconds later, Captain Scott Bugarin, a senior, attempted to slot the puck for the Rams, but again, Guerin remained diligent in the net. The same minute, McLean returned to the ice, and FSU spent the next 58 seconds on a penalty kill. While SNHU was a man up, their offense put pressure on Swanbon, who was able to defend against two shots. Otero re-entered the game at 14:52, ending the Penmen’s power play. SNHU’s next drive resulted in a shot by Kenny Thurston, but Swanbon continued his perfect streak, refusing to let up. Just under 2 minutes later, FSU gained control of the puck, taking it down the ice to junior Zach Pappas for an attempt on net that was prevented by Guerin. The Penmen brought the puck
Gatepost Archives
back across the line and attempted three more shots on goal in the following 30 seconds, all of which Swanbon was able to save. Sophomore Jonas Oesterle attempted to score for the Rams in the same minute once FSU regained possession, but again, Guerin was there to make the save. The scoreless quarter wrapped up 2 uneventful minutes later. Within the first minute of period two, SNHU fired a shot at FSU’s goal. Swanbon maintained the same composure as in the first period, preventing that attempt as well as the next at 1:15. It did not take long for FSU to make a drive, with sophomore Connor McLachlan attempting to score around the 3-minute mark. He was stopped by Guerin. SNHU stole the puck for another unsuccessful shot, but Framingham quickly regained control, allowing shots by Bugarin and Lacey that did not make it into the net. The Rams were back on the power play when, at 5:21, McLean was called for hooking. FSU was unable to capitalize during those 2 minutes, only managing one shot from sophomore Grig Kaagan. Kaagan found luck on his next drive, netting the puck at 8:35 with an assist from Bugarin and freshman Michael Janey to bring the Rams to a 1-0 lead. Unfortunately, the Penmen responded quickly. After Captain Cameron Craig, a senior, was penalized for tripping at 9:41, SNHU went to work on the power play. Aidan Rufa capitalized at 10:40, scoring his first goal of the season, with Jory Veenstra and Ethan McLean earning assists on the equalizer. The remainder of the second period featured several opportunities for both teams. Framingham State attempted to regain the advantage through shots from Jonas Oesterle, Nathan Gines, and Zacharias Pappas, but Guerin continued to make saves. Southern New Hampshire answered with attempts of their
own, all of which were stopped no avail. by Swanbon. The match concluded 4-1 in faFramingham received another vor of the Penmen. power-play opportunity late in Osterle said, “A hockey season the period after SNHU’s Gabe is a tedious process systematicalFisher was called for a 2-minute ly. These early games are a great penalty for direct contact to the chance to try out a lot of players head at 16:52. in a lot of different positions and Southern New Hampshire suc- see where they’re best suited. cessfully killed the penalty. Saves Exhibition games especially are by Guerin on scoring attempts by a great chance to try new things Otero, freshman Zach Spicuzza, personally and see what works. and senior Davis Hassell kept the So on an individual level, everyscore tied at 1-1 heading into the one will gain something differfinal period. ent.” Framingham came into the Osterle said the “most apparthird period looking to regain ent lesson” the Rams will take control, with attempts on goal from this match was “our pace. from Captain Brent Scott, a se- We have some good players and nior, Gines, Kaagan, and Os- if we play with a bit more pace, terle, but Guerin continued to we will be able to create a lot in turn away shots, even during the every area.” Rams’ power play. Osterle said, “In regards to Gines was called for interfer- our upcoming games, I think we ence at 4:26, granting the Pen- have everything we need to win men a power-play opportunity all three. Adversity is inevitable that quickly changed the game. - the biggest thing we need to At 5:14, Coleman Nee scored do as a group is to stay engaged his first goal of the season to give through it. Even taking one shift Southern New Hampshire a 2-1 off when things don’t go our way lead. is often enough to let in a goal, The momentum continued and then we’re behind trying to when, at the 7-minute mark, get ourselves back in the game. If Austin Hirschberger scored to we stay up mentally, I have comextend SNHU’s lead to 3-1. plete confidence in our group. Framingham State continMost recently, the Rams deued to fight as the clock wound feated the Umass Dartmouth down. The Rams created ad- Corsairs 6-5, evening their overditional opportunities through all record to 1-1. Craig, Kennedy and sophomore Osterle said, “I think the bigAlexis Detcheverry, but Guerin gest thing we need to build on is remained difficult to evade. creating good habits and trusting The Penmen added anoth- them. The game gets more skilled er goal at 15:09, scoring while and more structured every year. shorthanded due to a tripping We have a lot of good pieces, so penalty. as a group, just stacking producDespite the three-goal deficit, tive days and trusting the habits Framingham State continued to we develop will make it easy to push during the final minutes. play to our strengths in game.” The Rams generated late atFramingham will host Saint tempts from McLachlan, Craig Anselm and American Internaand Otero, but were unable to tional for non-conference matchscore another goal. ups Nov. 7 and Nov. 12, respecSwanbon made a late save with tively. just over a minute left, bringing him to a total of 26 saves, and the puck was returned to the Rams’ possession. Captain Devin Shepherd won Stats sourced from fsurams.com the match’s final faceoff, and and MASCAC.com with just 6 seconds left on the clock, got the puck to Otero, who CONNECT WITH TAYLOR KIMMELL attempted a last-second goal to tkimmell@student.framingham.edu
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8 | NOVEMBER 6, 2026
SPORTS
Field hockey clips the Falcons in comeback win By Izabela Gage Staff Writer
to play like it was 0-0 and not let a goal set us back. We knew we were capable of coming back Despite being down 1-0 to and trusted that, as a team, we start the game, the Framingham could.” State Rams made a 3-2 comeback The Rams responded by earnto conquer the Fitchburg State ing a series of penalty corners. Falcons in the MASCAC Quarter- After junior Amanda Stackpole finals Nov. 3. had a shot blocked, the offense This evens their conference converted on their next opporrecord to 5-5 and brings their tunity. overall record to 9-10. At 29:14, Mikayla Malmquist The Falcons started the action tied the game off an assist from with a shot on goal 5 minutes in, Captain Finley Hogan, a junior. but it was saved by sophomore Mikayla Malmquist said, “Fingoalkeeper Aubrey Jenkins. ley and I have been building our The Rams generated early connection on the field since chances, as freshman Sydney freshman year, and over the Walters tested Fitchburg goal- years, we’ve gotten to a point keeper Isabella Corcoran with where I almost know where she back-to-back shots, but Corco- is on the field without her even ran stopped both. having to say anything. Framingham earned a pen“We’ve developed a really alty corner, and Captain Ashley strong understanding of each Malmquist, a senior, took a shot other’s playing style, which on goal that Corcoran stopped. makes it easier to connect and The Falcons answered with create opportunities in big mopressure of their own during a ments,” she added. penalty corner, but Jenkins made Heading into halftime, the consecutive saves on goal at- teams were even 1-1. tempts from Samantha Jones, Framingham kept creating Kendall O’Brien, and Gyovanna chances in the third quarter. AfBarrows. ter another penalty corner, AshBoth teams remained score- ley Malmquist sent a shot wide. less going into the second quar- Junior Allison Wurms then put a ter. shot toward goal, but was unsucJunior Mikayla Malmquist cessful. tried to find the back of the net The Rams kept earning penfor the Rams early in the second alty corners, including three quarter, but Corcoran made the in a stretch late in the quarter, save. Walters sent a subsequent and eventually broke the tie. At attempt wide. 44:07, Hogan scored off an assist Fitchburg did not let up offen- from Wurms to give Framingham sively. Jenkins saved a shot, and a 2-1 lead. senior Allison Harmuth made This marked Hogan’s 21st a defensive save on another at- goal and 48th point of the seatempt. son, breaking the record for most The Falcons broke through al- goals scored and points in a sinmost 28 minutes in, when Ella gle season, which had both been Mosher scored the game’s open- held by Kristen Sacco since 2009. ing goal to give Fitchburg the Hogan said, “I’m super honlead. ored to have the privilege to play Ashley Malmquist said after at this level and the opportunity the first goal, their mindset “was to break it. Knowing that I have
another season left just makes me want to do even more for the team and myself.” She added she goes “into games focusing on the team’s success, which happens to go hand-in-hand with my individual success. I never go in thinking about just what I’m going to do, but how I can help the team.” Framingham kept up with their momentum and extended the lead only 58 seconds into the fourth quarter. Ashley Malmquist scored at 45:58 to put the Rams ahead by 2. Ashley Malmquist said the third goal “gave us more room for flexibility and to settle in. We knew we needed to keep battling and not let up, but the goal was a momentum boost for us!” Fitchburg looked to answer, Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST but Jenkins saved a shot from Mikayla Malmquist dribbling down Barrows and stopped attempts the sideline in semifinal win against from O’Brien and Barrows as the Fitchburg on Nov. 3. Falcons tried to cut into the defi- back and regain control of the cit. game.” The Rams refused to let up, as The Rams lost to the Westfield Hogan, Ashley Malmquist, and State Owls in the semifinal on senior Jillian Meeker each re- Nov. 5, bringing an end to their corded a shot on goal, but Corco- 2026 season. ran saved all attempts. Mikayla Malmquist said they Jenkins made another save have faced plenty of adversity following two consecutive Fitch- this season, which has helped burg penalty corners. She then them grow. turned away attempts from But“Anything can happen in the ler and Barrows, keeping the MASCAC, and nothing is guarRams ahead as the clock wound anteed, so we know we need to down. come prepared and be ready to Butler cut the deficit to one compete,” she added. with less than 2 minutes remainAshley Malmquist said, “Our ing in the game, bringing the chemistry has grown so much score to 3-2. throughout the season. … Trust The late goal made for a nail- makes a huge difference in highbiting final minute, but Framing- pressure situations because we ham held on to secure the quar- know we have each other’s backs terfinal win and advance to the and don’t have to do it alone.” second round. Mikayla Malmquist said this Stats sourced from fsurams.com and MASCAC.com win is “a great reminder of what we’re capable of as a team. Even CONNECT WITH IZABELA GAGE when we find ourselves down igage@student.framingham.edu early, we have the ability to fight
Men’s soccer crushed by Bridgewater on Senior Day
By Avery Slavin Editorial Staff
The Rams couldn’t seem to keep possession of the ball for long, and Bridgewater had time The Framingham State Rams to attempt to score another point fell 4-0 to the Bridgewater State twice - one saved by Holt and the Bears on their Senior Day Oct. other strayed too wide. 31. Senior captain Kaio Santos This brings their overall record Da Silva tried to help the Rams to 6-8-1 and their conference re- bounce back and sent the ball to cord to 4-2-1. the other side of the field toward In the first minute, Bridge- Bridgewater’s goalkeeper Kyle water took the first shot of the Sullivan, but his defense stayed game, and another the next strong in front of the net. minute. Sophomore goalkeeper The Bears stayed aggressive Colin Holt saved both goal at- with a header shot, a blocked tempts. shot, and a shot saved by Holt. Six minutes later, the Bears Following three corner kicks, sent the ball toward the net each within 30 seconds of each again, but were unable to hit the other, Bridgewater scored anback of the net until a short 3 other point, keeping them in the seconds later when Bridgewater lead over the Rams. got the first point of the game. Framingham still couldn’t
keep possession of the ball, al- sent the Rams’ next shot toward lowing the Bears to go for a third Sullivan, but it sailed too high goal. Holt stayed strong in front above the net. of the net. Five minutes later, the Bears The first half ended with a 2-0 regained possession of the ball score in favor of Bridgewater. and kicked it toward Holt, but The Bears wouldn’t let the it slipped past him and earned Rams catch up, and sent the ball Bridgewater their fourth point. toward Holt within the first 20 Junior Cassio Silva and sophoseconds of the second half, and more Gustavo Gualberto were luckily, he saved it. the final two Rams to attempt to Just a minute later, Bridge- score, but both were unsuccesswater tried again, but couldn’t ful. quite hit the back of the net until Bridgewater took their final 2 minutes later, when they were shot of the game 6 minutes beable to break Holt’s defense. fore the buzzer sounded, but it The Bears, with a 3-point lead, didn’t get in the net. kept the ball away from FramingThe final score was 4-0. ham long enough to take another The Rams play Bridgewater two shots on goal, one slipping again Nov. 6 in the semi-finals of just past the net and the other the MASCAC tournament. going into the arms of Holt. Santos Da Silva said this loss Two minutes later, the Rams didn’t discourage them, and it were finally able to gain posses- “was not a big deal. We played sion of the ball and get some ac- our best at the time, and there tion on the field. is a feeling around the team that Senior Landon Medeiros took it wasn’t our best game. We’re a shot on goal, but the Bears focused on the game Friday and blocked it from getting too close making sure we are ready to go.” to the net. Santos Da Silva said the Rams Senior captain Thiago Mag- are “really excited” for the opalhaes took the next attempt portunity to play on home turf to get a point on the board for for the semi-finals. Framingham, but his shot was blocked as well. Seven minutes later, Santos Stats sourced from fsurams.com Da Silva kicked the ball across and MASCAC.com the field, but it was too high to Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST get past the posts. CONNECT WITH AVERY SLAVIN Jack Holt revieving a pass in loss against Roger Williams on Sept. 29. Freshman Joshua Rosemond aslavin@student.framingham.edu @TheGatepost | FSUgatepost.com
SPORTS
NOVEMBER 6, 2026 | 9
Cross country hopeful after MASCAC Championships By Taylor Kimmell Sports Editor The Framingham State women’s and men’s cross country teams placed second and fifth, respectively, at the MASCAC Championship meet Oct. 31 at Fort Devens. Head Coach Mark Johnson said the course was relatively flat, but a steep, sandy hill challenged both teams. The men encountered it four times and the women once, causing runners to slow down and making it difficult to maintain their pace. Johnson said the teams entered the championship with the mantra, “Believe in yourself, believe in your training, and race for place.” The women’s team earned 63 points with a total time of 1:47:51.57, securing the highest finish in program history. It was the first time the women’s team placed higher than third at the conference championship. Johnson said the second-place finish and conference runner-up trophy made it “a really special day.” Captain Kate Buban, a senior, led the Rams in the 5K with a time of 19:43.75. She said she did not expect to finish third but was determined to hold her position, which ended up earning her a spot on the MASCAC All-Conference team. Framingham focused on “racing for place at MASCACs rather than time,” she said. Buban added the result showed the program “has the opportunity to achieve great things” and
said she was proud of her teammates’ preparation and effort. Captain Grace Avery, a junior, finished 12th in 21:23.16. Freshmen Sydney Youde and Caprial Dibartolomeo placed 13th in 21:27.29 and 17th in 21:41.48, respectively. Senior Camille Graffeo rounded out the top five, finishing 33rd in 23:35.89. Freshman Abigail Woodbury placed 39th in 24:31.96, followed by senior Justinne Quinanola in 44th at 25:05.07 and Captain Norah Russell, a senior, in 49th at 27:44.93. Sophomores Ellen Child, Angelica Miranda-Chong, and Mia McCluckey finished 50th (27:56.23), 53rd (29:44.29), and 54th (30:47.77), respectively. The men’s team finished fifth with 121 points and a total time of 2:31:00.73. Johnson praised the team’s “effort and resilience,” noting that running the hill four times was “no small task.” Although he said the Rams hoped to finish ahead of another team or two, he was proud of their work ethic and looked forward to seeing them compete at NCAA Regionals. Junior Aaron Corlette led the Rams, placing 15th in the 8K in 28:45.05. He said the hill was especially difficult when runners were fatigued, but credited the team’s preparation and effort. “We put in the work at practice and left it all out there during the race,” he said. Junior Vincent Gauthier finished 17th in 28:45.85, followed
by Captain Ayden Giombetti, a Kansas highway.” That coupled senior, in 25th in 29:52.73. with the field of 40-and-change Sophomore Jeremy Gale placed teams, many of which will be in42nd in 31:31.30, while freshmen credibly tough opponents like Joseph Lawson and Jameson Mi- “MIT, who are former national randa finished 44th in 32:05.80 champions and who have won and 45th in 32:28.90. Sophomore this meet for five consecutive Liam Devaney rounded out the years,” will make this one of, if team in 58th in 34:58.91. not “the fastest, meet we have Gauthier said the meet proved ever competed in as a program. tough for the men’s team, with “We’ve had a lot of hard coursthe “flow-altering hill” on each es this year, from the hills of lap challenging the Rams’ run- Fitchburg to the hairpin turns of ners. WNE, so it’s been a tough menHe said this obstacle turned tal season. However, all this hard “the race into a mental battle racing has had some great effects that everyone had to meet at an on our bodies. individual level on the day. Some “We did our key workout for were prepared for that, others Regionals prep yesterday, and weren’t. That’s how it goes in collectively, after finally hitting cross country, and there’s noth- the track for a fast workout, we’re ing wrong with that. … At this very confident approaching next point, all we can do is take these weekend, and I think many of us lessons in stride and regroup for are expecting to be hitting some the next opportunity.” major personal bests. From there, Both teams will compete at the it’s all about the mental game NCAA Regional Meet at Bates and staying fresh and healthy, College Nov. 14. because there’s nothing more we Johnson described the region- can do to squeeze any more fital squads as “a good mix of vet- ness out. We just have to do the erans and rookies.” right things for a few more days The men’s roster includes Cor- and have fun come race day,” he lette, Gauthier, Giombetti, Law- added. son, Gale, Devaney, and freshAvery said the women’s team man David Lopez. The women’s is continuing to prepare for the team will be led by Buban and NCAA meet and is “excited to Avery, alongside Youde, Dibar- compete and finish the season tolomeo, Woodbury, Toth, and off strong.” Quinanola. She added, “I’m so proud of “These are two of the stron- this team and what we’ve acgest teams we’ve ever brought to complished this season!” regionals,” Johnson said, adding Stats sourced from fsurams.com he expects “a great day for the and MASCAC.com Rams at Bates.” Gauthier said the course at CONNECT WITH TAYLOR KIMMELL Bates will be “flatter than a tkimmell@student.framingham.edu
Football shuts out Plymouth State By Andrew Louis Interim Asst. Sports Editor
was sophomore Zimari Omosefe, who recorded 7 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. His Categorizing the Rams’ de- performance earned him MASfense as good is an understate- CAC Defensive Player of the ment. Week. Framingham State football Sophomore Jordan Cabbagedelivered a dominant defensive stalk also had a major impact, performance Saturday after- finishing with 7 tackles, 2 tackles noon, shutting out Plymouth for loss, and 2 sacks. State 14-0 at Bowditch Field. Junior Gabe Grzyboski conThe victory improved the Rams’ tributed 5 tackles, 3 tackles for overall record to 5-2 and 4-2 in loss, and a sack. conference play. Junior linebacker Tyrese HerThe Rams’ defense held the ring said, “We knew the game Panthers to just 62 total yards, had to be won with the front 7.” including negative six rush- He added, “The way we pracing yards and 68 passing yards. ticed, we knew we were going to Framingham State recorded five have a shutout.” sacks, two interceptions, and a The offense also had a part forced fumble, earning its first in the shutout, with sophomore shutout of the season. quarterback Michael Marcucella Leading the defensive effort throwing for 70% completion, totaling 298 yards and a touchdown. To start, Marcucella opened with a pass to senior captain Alex Maia for 17 yards, putting them at Plymouth’s 48-yard line. The Rams wanted to get the ground game going, having junior Makoto Uchikawa rush for 7 yards in two attempts. The first down wasn’t yet secured, so Marcucella passed the ball to senior Ayden Ramirez to gain 5 yards to move the sticks. The Rams continued to march down the field with only one penalty to their name, but weren’t able to finish with a score. Plymouth St. started their first drive with nothing in hand. The Rams’ defense allowed 20 Izabela Gage / THE GATEPOST yards in eight plays, as well as a sack from Cabbagestalk. Brandon Snyder punting the ball in win The Rams got the ball back against Mass. Maritime Oct. 24. with 1:11 left in the first quarter.
The first pass of the drive was couldn’t pass it or run it. Everysent to senior Ezana Zemene for thing they tried only benefited 5 yards, and right after, Uchikawa the Rams. The drive ended with got involved with the pass game -3 yards in three plays. with a gain of 39 yards to end the The Rams had brief possession first quarter. of the ball for only a minute and This drive ended with a punt 29 seconds. by freshman Brandon Snyder for The Rams’ defense made sure 47 yards. to make the Panthers regret their The Panthers tried to get the short offensive drive. They kept ground game going, but Cab- their foot on the gas, forcing -2 bagestalk, alongside Grzyboski, in three plays. made sure not to allow that, with The third quarter ended the 4 rushing yards in four attempts same way it started - Plymouth and only 11 yards in the air, forc- St. 0, Framingham St. 7. ing them to punt. The Rams started their drive Marcucella went four-for-four with 13:40 left on the clock. Marin completions, two of which led cucella threw the ball five times, to first downs. only completing three passes for Back-to-back throws to se- 20 yards. They were able to get nior Mathias Fowler for a total of the ball to their own 35-yard 22 yards allowed Marcucella to line, but couldn’t score. throw to junior Adrian Sarrette Brandon Snyder punted the for a gain of 29 yards, resulting ball 62 yards to the Panthers’ in a Framingham touchdown. 3-yard line. The Panthers tried Junior Ty Kelly was good for to recover the ball, but the Rams the extra point. forced the fumble. Senior SteFramingham State 7, Plym- phen Gallant was able to recovouth 0. er it and score, adding 6 for the The Rams’ defense went back Rams, with an extra point good to business, allowing nothing. from Kelley. The Panthers’ drive ended with There wasn’t a lot of offense a loss of 7 yards in only three for the remainder of the fourth. plays. The Rams spent their possession The Rams were everywhere, of the ball draining the clock, making even a yard impossible while the Panthers tried to gain for the Panthers to gain. their first points of the game. The Rams’ defense continued The game ended with Plymouth to assert dominance throughout St. 0, Framingham St. 14. the first quarter while the ofThe Rams will be going against fense tried to score again. 1-7 Dean College in a conference The half ended with the Rams matchup Nov. 7th. at 7, and Plymouth yet to score. Stats sourced from fsurams.com Plymouth started the half with and MASCAC.com the ball and could not make anything happen. Framingham State kept them to another negative- CONNECT WITH ANDREW LOUIS yardage drive. The Panthers alouis1@student.framingham.edu
FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM
10 | NOVEMBER 6, 2026
ARTS & FEATURES
‘Wicker’- A Modern Love Story
By Ollie Mainguy Staff Writer
A story marketed to be one of the most provocative movies of the year made me cry. “Wicker,” based on the fable by Ursula Willis-Jones, “The Wicker Husband,” was genuinely one of the most interesting movies I have ever seen. There are moments of promiscuity, humor, and heart, but at its core this movie is about love. The characters bring this story to life, and the small-town setting is done wonderfully. While many are skeptical of this film, it truly was such a joy to behold. Olivia Colman plays the Fisherwoman. Her character is known as the town’s resident spinster. She is unmarried, crude, and unapologetically herself. Her character instantly won my heart early on. While her compelling self-confidence is incredible to watch, the setting is what really sold this movie. Just like in real small-town fashion, people gossip. In the film, cul-de-sacs are replaced with houses made of wood and straw, but the sentiment is all the same. The Tailor’s Wife is the mean girl in town and she leads the pack of women whose main goal is to make fun of the old spinster. And in a town that cares a little too much about the tradition of marriage, they make sure that she is the butt of every joke. The Fisherwoman pretends
at first that she does not care to have a husband, but over time the cruelty gets to her. She goes to the town’s Basketmaker, played by Peter Dinklage, who’s only seen in town once a month during their market. Fisherwoman goes to him and asks him to make her a husband. Fisherwoman is in need of a companion, as viewers clearly see during a very
with one another. What started as a very awkward interaction at the chapel turns into a very passionate relationship. Their love blossoms over time as they grow into one another, separate from the judgmental town. One morning, the entire movie changes. What many audiences thought would be a provocative and smutty film turns into a story about love and acceptance. Upon walking into town, the new couple is greeted with yet another wedding. Most of the town is curious by the nature of the
Basket Maker made sure that he would still be given free will even though he was made of straw. Their relationship only grows stronger, which makes the townspeople infuriated over time, making them see inadequacies in their own relationships. The women of the town see that love really is possible. While I am possibly making this film seem infuriatingly sappy to watch, the film is lighthearted and enjoyable. The romance is at times very sickly sweet but they are still passionate with one another. There is no lack of smut in this movie if that is what this review suggests - it is still just as provocative as the critics have deemed it to be.
Tobias Cotton-Selman / THE GATEPOST
short cutscene. Her desire for a partner is not as surface level as she pretends to show the townspeople. After a month goes by, she meets her Wicker Husband at the chapel. The husband, played by Alexander Skarsgård, is performed with sincerity and such genuineness - it is almost too sweet to watch. The chemistry and irreverence begins straight after the wedding. The newlyweds go back to the Fisherwoman’s home and instantly connect
Fisherwoman’s husband - after all he is made of wicker - but Rating: B+ most of all they are intrigued. I wasn’t expecting As the couple starts to dance to cry at “Wicker” during the wedding festivities, but I’m glad that the town is captivated by a relationship that is not merely I did. out of obligation, but is truly driven by love and passion. The Wicker Husband tells his wife that his love doesn’t require a promise. Their connection is purely out of love and not because he was CONNECT WITH OLLIE MAINGUY technically made for her. The omainguy@student.framingham.edu
‘Eight Cousins’ - Louisa May Alcott By Kate Norrish Staff Writer
My mother works as a tour guide at Orchard House in Concord, where Louisa May Alcott lived, and told me that if I did not review one of Alcott’s works in this column, she would be disappointed in the way only a mother can. OK, she actually vaguely implied that. Relax Mom, I’m not mad. With that being said, and with familial pressure dripping from this article, “Little Women” is all well and good, but I honestly like this children’s book romp a little better. “Eight Cousins,” published in 1874, is a great example of the “spunky young girl” character archetype - something which has since become cliched, but I love it when it’s done well. One of the reasons I prefer to see classic novels capture this archetype is because they don’t fall into the cliche of “I hate sewing, Big Corset wants me dead.” As someone who loves history and was always pretty girly, those contemporary takes on the trope always made me uncomfortable. The story begins when 13-year-old Rose is sent away to a town right outside of Boston after being orphaned. The hope, according to the gaggles of aunts she is staying with, is for her to learn how to be a proper, feminine young lady. If you can’t see it coming, when you’re learning this in a house with eight young
boys, that’s easier said than done, especially when they are just excited to have another kid around to rope into their shenanigans. Alongside these kids, Rose gets into a variety of scenarios that could serve as a manual for the proper use of the phrase “boys will be boys.” By that, I mean the way the phrase should be used, with these kids running around, starting fires by themselves, and crawling on the floor pretending to be donkeys. When Rose takes part, which she inevitably does, the book also shows the other phrase that we need not forget “girls will be girls.” Listen, 1800’s expectations for female behavior is a lot for one kid to follow 24/7. The way this book handles the label of “hysteria” being slapped on women for every weird move at the time is so much fun. To tackle her “mental health condition,” Uncle Alec provides her with the greatest mental-statechanging pills of all time breadcrumbs rolled into little balls. A childish solution for a childish diagnosis. The style of this book reminds me a lot of Charles Dickens, particularly “The Pickwick Papers.” The humor, writing style, and his famously over-the-top characterization is all over this novel. That is not too surprising, considering it is a fairly well-known fact that Lousia May Alcott was a big fan of that series, but aside from the extremely female-
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Tobias Cotton-Selman / THE GATEPOST
focused perspective, reading “Eight Cousins” kind of felt like getting a bonus Charles Dickens novel. I would also like to add that one of the aunts caring for Rose is obsessed with curing disease. She used to have a child named Caroline who died, and the other characters theorize that it was because said aunt overmedicated her by accident. I had to read that sentence twice for it to sink in. You’ve got to love kids books that aren’t afraid to pop in something creepy every once in a while. The first time I read the book however, my enjoyment was briefly stunted by a scene where Rose and her cousins pretend they are traveling to China while boating on a pond, and Alec, seeing their adventure, thinks they’ll enjoy seeing REAL Chinese people for the first time. He takes them to meet a little boy named Fun See and an old man named Whang Lo, both recent immigrants. They are
described with exaggerated language, and play into a lot of Asian stereotypes. They also briefly appear at the end of the book, so anyone who would like to read this book should keep that in mind. Overall, I agree that “Little Women” is an objectively better book. If you haven’t noticed, “Eight Cousins” is mostly standard kids’ books fare. There’s not even really a plot beyond a series of short stories, but that’s exactly why I like it. Sometimes all you really need is a series of incidents where interesting people do mundane but interesting things. After you fall in love with this book, don’t thank me. Thank my mother, and visit Orchard House so she can teach you more.
CONNECT WITH KATE NORRISH
knorrish@student.framingham.edu
ARTS & FEATURES
Beyonce: Disco vs. Desert By Louie Ranieri Staff Writer On Nov. 9, 2024, Queen Bey, also known as Beyoncé, became the most Grammynominated artist in history with 99 nominations. This nomination was for her album “Cowboy Carter” that won Country Album of the Year in 2025. This was a very historic win, yet probably the most controversial win in the history of the Grammy Awards - this award marked her 35th Grammy win. “Cowboy Carter” isn’t my favorite album of Beyoncé’s by far, but I do respect her versatility in the industry. I honestly can’t stand to hear “TEXAS HOLD’EM” one more time in my life. Personally, I can’t stand country music, and when a pop icon went country I had a massive disconnect with her for a while. It felt wrong listening to a country album by Beyoncé, knowing that there was so much better material out there.
The songs “16 CARRIAGES” and “TEXAS HOLD’EM” were way overplayed, leading me to stop listening to Beyoncé’s catalog. Around a year later, I made my way back to listen to songs that were never played on the radio from the “COWBOY CARTER” album, and I have to admit, there are a few songs that I now absolutely adore on this album. My favorites on this album include “BODYGUARD,” “JOLENE,” and “DESERT EAGLE.” These songs each hold an element that speaks to me on another level. The song “BODYGUARD” has an absolutely fantastic foundation from the starting notes of this song. The progression of this song was arranged incredibly, from her vocal delivery to the instruments. Her vocals are smooth and velvety, leaving the lyrics very soft spoken and carrying great meaning to the song’s theme of a protective love. The bass line in this song is purely magic, transcending this song to a completely different level. It adds a hint of 70’s pop/ funk to this song - I think it makes the song. I find “JOLENE” to be a more furious version than the iconic Dolly Parton’s classic hit. Beyoncé had Parton on this album to introduce this song and have her voice remind listeners of where female country artists all started. I think it was such a sweet element to this album, adding the legend who paved the way for country artists to be featured on this album.
I like how Beyoncé turned it into her own, which is typically something Beyoncé does in a great fashion. “DESERT EAGLE” is a very short song, only a few seconds longer than a minute. The bass on that track is so heavy and prominent that it makes the song a partial part of the album for me. With there only being a few tracks I really listen to on this album, I strongly prefer the “RENAISSANCE” album - this is a no-skip album for me. Each song on this album is like a story or mini movie I can visualise in my mind every time I listen to it. My top songs from this album have to be “ALIEN SUPERSTAR,” “VIRGO’S GROOVE,” “HEATED,” and “SUMMER RENAISSANCE.” They all have great structure and elements that create the sound of the album. If I had to use one word to describe this album, it would simply be culture. The amount of cultural impact this one album has is tremendous. I see this album as a source of liberation for so many different communities. “RENAISSANCE” gave me the courage and internal power to face this world and to be myself. No matter whether you are straight, gay, white, black, male, female, transgender, this album will most likely give you a message that you hear and others might not. It resonates with a wide range of people who could benefit from its motivational and empowering sounds. In the song “CHURCH GIRL” Beyoncé says “I’m gonna love
N0VEMBER 6, 2026 | 11 on me / Nobody can judge me / But me / I was born free.” While this song isn’t much about being a holy church girl, it gives a sense of freedom of expression, which I believe is far more important. Knowing your self worth is only something you can determine. This whole album is practically a guide to living your most authentic life. There are definitely songs that make you question what you’re listening to, but as long as you find a message you resonate with, that’s all that matters. Whether it’s the “RENAISSANCE” album or a completely different genre and artist, that’s the magic of music. Music can lead you to self discovery and expression. I have used and continue to use music as a way to navigate the darkest of times, and this album did that for me in 2023. I was fortunate enough to see Queen Bey on the RENAISSANCE World Tour in 2023 at Gillette Stadium. It was beyond a magical experience, but not just because of the dazzling gowns and bodysuits, but also the love and acceptance I felt just standing in a crowd who was free to express themselves, standing before the one people call “The Queen.” I loved the “RENAISSANCE,” liked a few from “COWBOY CARTER,” and am eagerly awaiting ACT III. I hope it’s a rock album. If it is, I have a really good feeling about it! CONNECT WITH LOUIE RANIERI
lranieri@student.framingham.edu
PETS OF THE WEEK - MANGO & PEBBLES MANGO AGE: 4 YEARS OLD BREED: ORANGE CAT PEBBLES AGE: 4 YEARS OLD BREED: GRAY CAT OWNERS: IZZY GAGE, SENIOR, ENGLISH MAJOR
FUN FACT: THESE TWO WERE ABANDONED IN A BARN AND
FOUND BY IZZY’S FAMILY AS KITTENS.
THE TOP PHOTO SHOWS MANGO
& PEBBLES WHEN THEY WERE KITTENS, WHILE THE BOTTOM PHOTO SHOWS HOW MUCH THEY’VE GROWN!
YOUR PET COULD BE THE NEXT PET OF THE WEEK! SUBMIT YOUR PET’S PHOTO TO SDAPONDE@STUDENT.FRAMINGHAM.EDU
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Bible Drag Continued from Page 1
Antonio Machado / THE GATEPOST
Dr. Tuffy Love Andrews talking about Bible Drag at the Heineman Ecumenical Center on Oct.29.
She said there were roughly 100 members from a church called Consuming Fire Fellowship in the quad awaiting her. Andrews said, “You have men with these giant signs who were shouting sermons. As you walk through the quad, people would shout at you. They call women students sluts and whores, and if they perceive you to be queer, they’ll call you all sorts of other slurs. And I was just in shell shock.” She said she returned to her office afterward and met with a student who was distraught after being harassed by some of the preachers. She emailed her dean, “We need to do something about this.” She said her dean responded, “I’m very sorry that that student had that experience, but you have to understand these groups have been coming to campus for many years now, and there’s nothing we can do about it. I’ll bring this up at the next deans council meeting, but I’m not sure that we’re gonna be able to do anything moving forward.” Andrews said that was her introduction to the cycle she lives through - students being harassed by religious groups, and her complaints on their behalf being met with no response. “I probably should have begun by saying that the opinions that I’m sharing with you today are not necessarily those of my employer. Because academic freedom is also under attack in Louisiana,” she said. She said she experiences “compulsory Christianity,” where people around her assume everyone is or should be Christian, which creates a feeling that the preachers and religious groups around her are “untouchable.” Andrews said, “That’s due to our First Amendment, right? It’s great that we have the First Amendment, which allows people to express themselves and their religious beliefs, because if we didn’t have that, I couldn’t be dressed like this, speaking to you today.
“At the same time, because of the context of compulsory Christianity that they exist in, those ‘creatures’ receive an additional moral armor, right? So in the same way that as a drag queen, I can say and do things when I’m in drag that might be a little outrageous if I was not in drag, preachers can afford some extra leeway in their behavior,” she added. She said the state of Texas is revolutionizing higher education. “By that, I mean, cracking down on free speech and academic freedom, in particular,” she said. She said multiple universities in Texas are restricting various forms of student speech and have tried to ban drag shows. “They said that it was equivalent to ‘womanface,’ right? So that’s a thing that TERFs use to kind of push against drag queens. So, because it was degrading to women, we can’t have drag queens on campus. Other campuses thought that it was just sexually inappropriate to have a drag show on campus,” Andrews added. She pointed out the irony in attempting to ban these forms of self expression while administrators in her workplace tell her there is nothing they can do about the preachers harassing her students. She said, “Around the same time that all these drag bans were starting in 2022, that’s when I decided I was going to do drag, right? I had just gotten tenure. I was feeling myself. I think I was actually floating around in my pool - not to make anyone jealous. And I was like, ‘You know what? I have time. I have a little bit of money. I want to be a drag queen because it’s really going to make these people nervous locally.’” She said she saw drag as a way to organize her community while also pushing back against local governance. Andrews said drag helped her understand the sociological theories explaining how life is a social construct and gave her
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a deeper understanding of how often people perform in their daily lives. She said she subsequently realized the preachers who came to her campus were also performing in their own way. “These preachers that come to campus are not just expressing what may be their sincere religious beliefs, but they’re putting on an exaggerated performance, creating these personas for an audience,” she said. She referred to this performance as “Bible Drag.” Andrews said, “Bible Drag, for me, becomes a tool for us to change the perspective when we’re thinking about these street preachers. It’s often referred to as confrontational evangelism, right? And so it becomes this framework through which I can analyze them sociologically and as an entertainer myself.” She said viewing these preachers through the lens of Bible Drag breaks down the religious barrier that disallows criticism. She said they are intentionally outrageous and attention grabbing, and use props and costumes to exacerbate the attention they receive. Andrews said, “They’re performing, in very outrageous ways, sermons. They do stunts. Their goal is to build an audience. They want people around them. … What I’ve come to find is that the audiences are actually a big part of the show, the same way that if you go to a drag show, the audience is really important. “As an entertainer, I rely a lot on energy from the audience, and so do these preachers. They try to be intentionally outrageous to provoke an audience, right? That is their strategy, and that’s going to be important for monetizing their shows,” she said. She said they use their “sermons” as ways to make money through solicitation and donations, but also through social media content and merchandise.
Andrews said, “They want to get reactions from people that they can then put on social media, and this begins to raise the question of who is the real audience.” She said the students are baited into reacting so they can be used as props for social media content. “The outrage is the content,” she said. She said the shows Bible Drag performers put on are harmful. They are “putting on a show that is reaffirming this cis heteropatriarchy that we all kind of have to live in, which in my part of the world is very real and very tangible.” She said about a third of Americans have experienced religious trauma in some form, and these performances directly trigger those traumas. Andrews said administrators telling students and faculty to simply ignore or not engage with these groups is unhelpful. “That’s actually quite disempowering. It begins to instill in people this idea that there’s nothing we can do, and it’s not worth my time,” she said. She said student-organized protests to Bible Drag artists are good opportunities for students to practice activism. “Those counter protests, even though they may be feeding into the outrage of the spectacle, become tools through which students, I believe, can become more active citizens,” Andrews said. “Now more than ever, we need young people to be active citizens.” She said student-organized protests to Bible Drag artists are good opportunities for students to practice activism. “Those counter protests, even though they may be feeding into the outrage of the spectacle, become tools through which students, I believe, can become more active citizens,” Andrews said. “Now more than ever, we need young people to be active citizens.” CONNECT WITH ANTONIO MACHADO amachado4@student.framingham.edu
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Word Hunt 1. Paramore 8. Grande
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12. Cardi B 5. Parton 13. Swift 6. Franklin 14. RAYE 7. Carpenter Cooper Davis and Gracie Wyatt / THE GATEPOST
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Rose Hamilton / THE GATEPOST Spread by Photos & Design Editor Onyx Lovely, Interim Asst. Photos & Design Editor Rose Hamilton, and Staff Photographer Julien Fernandez
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