Volume 108 Issue 18

The Fordham Ram Serving The Fordham University Community Since 1918 November 4, 2026

TheFordhamRam.com

Volume 108, Issue 18

Blakeman vs. Hochul, What Students Need to Know

Walsh Hall Construction Nearing the End By GRACE KAWECKI

By MURIEL CORLEY STAFF WRITER

ASST. NEWS EDITOR

On Election Day, the polls opened statewide at 6 a.m., inviting New Yorkers to begin casting their ballots. A polling location near Fordham University’s Rose Hill campus, the Grace H. Dodge Career and Technical School, had its doors wide open with “Vote Here” signs lining the entrance. This gubernatorial election could impact Fordham students economically due to the power of the governor to propose the annual budget and negotiate spending with the state legislature, which determines funding for public transportation, housing programs, education and health care. Thus, the governor’s policies and leadership directly influence the cost of living in New York and job opportunities for students. The two candidates competing in New York State’s gubernatorial race are Democrat Kathy Hochul and Republican Bruce Blakeman. Kathy Hochul is the 57th and first female governor of New York State, holding office since 2021. A member of the Democratic Party, Hochul ran for re-election, emphasizing a continued focus on expanding affordable healthcare and housing, protecting reproductive rights, supporting labor unions and investing in public safety during her campaign. Hochul was endorsed by various Democratic leaders in New York, such as Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Attorney General Letitia James. On Oct. 30, Hochul announced that $872 million in housing bonds and subsidies was awarded to 12 housing developments across New York state that will be used to create or preserve over 2,000 “affordable, supportive, sustainable and modern homes.” Five projects

Unanticipated delays have impacted the renovations on Fordham University’s Walsh Hall, but an end goal of January 2027 is in sight. Marcella Sino, assistant vice president of design and construction, explained that the renovations are part of a two-phase plan to improve the residence building’s heating efficiency and its resiliency. Sino said that phase one began in February 2026, when Fordham’s parking lot was closed off to upgrade the stormwater management system. This renovation was in response to the flooding in the basement of Walsh during episodes of significant rainfall. An underground stormwater detention system was installed beneath the parking lot, where it temporarily stores excess rainwater before releasing it into the sewer system to reduce the risk of flooding. This project was completed in May 2026. “So with that, it has dramatically reduced water infiltration,” Sino said. Sino explained that phase two consists of installing a separate, localized heating system in the basement of the residence hall, so that the building is no longer heated from Thebaud Hall. This construction is visible by the closed-off walkway along Walsh Hall. “What we wanted to do is provide a more efficient [heating system] that’s dedicated to Walsh … to minimize the amount of maintenance needed,” Sino said. Sino noted that during the heating system construction, heating will stay undisturbed for students in Walsh Hall. The original time estimate for the completion of the renovations was October 2026. But Sino explained that it

SEE ELECTION, PAGE 4

2 News UConn Professor

Professor Explains How Much You’re Liked

IAN NELSON/THE FORDHAM RAM

President Tania Tetlow sits in the President’s Dining Room to speak with student journalists.

Tetlow Discusses AI, Faculty Salaries and a New University By SIENNA REINDERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The Fordham University President Tania Tetlow spoke with student journalists from The Ram and The Fordham Observer on Oct. 28, about a variety of topics, including artificial intelligence (AI), faculty salary, benefits negotiations and a potential new building at Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus. First-Year Housing

Fordham’s current firstyear class is the second largest in university history, with about 2,650 students. As a result, some first-year students are being housed in upperclassman dorms, including Finlay Hall. Tetlow commented on the issue of limited housing, stating that it was not intentional for this year’s class to be so large, but that a greater number of students accepted admissions

offers than anticipated. Tetlow also spoke about whether the university anticipates a similar housing issue in future years. “We’re having to project based on history of how many will say yes and this year we got more popular. Our yield went up almost 10%. And so, as a result, we ended up with an unintentionally large class,” Tetlow said. “Our goals SEE TETLOW, PAGE 3

Kathy Hochul Re-elected as New York Governor By SIENNA REINDERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The votes have been tallied and incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul has been announced the winner of the New York gubernatorial race, beating Republican

opponent Bruce Blakeman. The Associated Press called the race at about 9 p.m., shortly after polls closed in New York, with only 13% of votes counted. Early voter turnout in New York saw a significant increase

from the 2022 midterm election, rising 67% from 1,178,674 early voters in 2022 to 1,965,043 early voters for this election. At the time this article is being written, only 70% of votes have been SEE GOVERNOR, PAGE 4

HANNAH SULLIVAN/THE FORDHAM RAM

Kathy Hochul was re-elected as New York Governor, beating Republican opponent Bruce Blakeman.

6 Opinion Private Profit

Private Profit at the Expense of South Bronx

IN THIS ISSUE

R

9 Culture Editor’s Pick

Life is Good When You ‘Walk in the Woods’

SEE WALSH HALL, PAGE 4

15 Sports Yankees

Same Old, Same Old: Cashman and Boone Rehired

NEWS

Page 2

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

November 4, 2026

UConn Professor Explains How Much You’re Liked

Lalande Hall Oct. 30 7:06 p.m.

On Friday at 7:06 p.m., a fire alarm went off in Lalande Hall. The supervisor and FDNY responded. The panel indicated a smoke condition in the 4thfloor lounge. There was no smoke or fire. The supervisor reset the alarm panel.

Arthur Avenue Nov. 1 1:46 a.m.

On Sunday at 1:46 a.m., a student reported an assault via the Alertus App at a residence on Arthur Avenue. The supervisor responded and located the reporter. The investigation revealed the reporter witnessed a male punch a student in the face. The offender fled. The supervisor called the NYPD to respond. A canvass did not locate the offender. FUEMS transported the assaulted student to Saint Barnabas Hospital. The NYPD prepared a report for assault.

O’Hare Hall Nov. 2 9:40 a.m.

On Monday at 9:40 a.m., there was a stuck occupied elevator in O’Hare Hall. The supervisor responded and notified the elevator company. A technician responded, freed the occupant and inspected the elevator.

Walsh Hall Nov. 3 2:47 a.m.

On Tuesday at 2:47 a.m., the Security Officer assigned to Walsh Hall reported that the basement men’s bathroom was vandalized. The supervisor responded. Rolls of toilet paper were placed in the toilet, water was on the floor, soap dispensers were ripped off the wall and toilet paper was strewn all over the bathroom. The supervisor prepared a work order to have Follow The Fordham Ram on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X @TheFordhamRam

Wednesday Nov. 4

GABRIEL CAPELLAN/THE FORDHAM RAM

University of Connecticut Professor David A. Kenny gives a lecture at Leon Lowenstein Center.

By GABRIEL CAPELLAN ASST. NEWS EDITOR

Friendship is a connection that typically cannot be measured in numbers, however University of Connecticut Professor David A. Kenny attempted to prove otherwise. He claimed the relationships you have with others can be measured using his research model. Kenny presented his Social Relations Model, a dyadic model that shows how much you are liked by others, on Oct. 15. His presentation took place in the 12th-floor lounge of the Leon Lowenstein Center at the Lincoln Center campus. His work began in 1970 when he was reading the work of Timothy Curry, another researcher of psychology, and realized that the way his experiment was capturing data didn’t reflect reciprocity. In the work of Curry, it was in a round robin design, where people had one-on-one interactions with all other participants in the experiment. He noted this organization and made it the foundation of his research model. “Underlying [the social

relations model] was this very simple idea that how much you like somebody is a function of you, the other person and the relationship that you have between them,” Kenny said. Kenny went on to further refine the social relations model when he implemented a new way to capture data. This new way of obtaining data was similar to how speed dating works. Kenny said this data collection method was better suited for larger populations and stricter timelines, such as when a researcher doesn’t have enough time for all participants to interact with each other. “If you have six people, you may not have enough lab space and enough time to run them interacting with all five others,” Kenny said. “So you might just have them, in this case, interact with three others.” In these experiments, Kenny can loosely determine how much someone likes another person based on social patterns, such as extraversion and agreeableness. The relationship between participants got stronger with repeated interaction and more

time spent together. However, when it comes to romantic relationships, the circumstances change drastically. “If you have people in speed-dating, there are some people who are very much liked by all their partners on their desirable dates, and other people are not so desirable,” Kenny said. “Physical attractiveness leads some people, especially in a speed dating context, to stand out as the people everybody wants to date and low physical attractiveness does not so much.” These attractions and relationships are further cemented when we try to understand how another person perceives us based on what we show them. “If you’re trying to control your impression of other people, you can actually read how they see you,” Kenny said. This perception can be applied to either positive or negative relationships. However, people tend to overestimate this like or dislike for one another. Outside of this A-and-B reciprocity interaction, people also develop an agreement bias: They assume

This Week at Fordham

Thursday Nov. 5

Friday Nov. 6

Saturday Nov. 7

others must like the other person because they do, but this assumption isn’t always the case. “We overassume reciprocity, and then it’s another kind of bias that’s interesting,” Kenny said. “We know a lot of liking is relational, and so who you like may have nothing to do with how much other people like that person.” At the end of his presentation, Kenny offered advice to other researchers looking to collaborate with their peers. “Look for collaborators that are smart, hardworking and know things you don’t know,” Kenny said. “That’s one of the problems that we do a lot. We collaborate with people who know exactly what we know, and that really isn’t very useful.” Kenny said his research, which took him 25 years to finish, was difficult, but he nevertheless enjoyed it. “Working on hard questions is fun, but you’ve got to take it the long run,” Kenny said. “I realize early career advice may be bad advice to give to people, but I think it’s important to work on stuff you love and are interested in.”

Sunday Nov. 8

Career Center Reception

Fordham Graduate School Fair

Fordham Volleyball vs. VCU

Journalism Conference

Fordham vs. Monroe University

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Great Hall 303 6 - 8 p.m.

Bepler Commons 1 - 2 p.m.

Rose Hill Gym 6 - 8 p.m.

Costantino Room 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Rose Hill Gym 3 - 5 p.m.

The Career Center will host a reception to discuss authenticity, empathy and building meaningful connections in the workplace.

Students will have the opportunity to meet representatives from Fordham’s six graduate schools and the Career Center.

Fordham’s women’s volleyball team will host Virginia Commonwealth University in an Atlantic 10 conference matchup.

Fordham and the New York Press Club will host a journalism conference with discussions and workshops.

Fordham’s women’s basketball will face Monroe University in a home Atlantic 10 conference matchup in the Rose Hill Gym.

NEWS Tetlow Discusses Fordham Topics With the Press

Page 3

November 4, 2026

FROM TETLOW PAGE 1

for next year will be what they were for this year, but we’ll have more information about the fact that that popularity hopefully will continue, and we’ll plan accordingly.” Artificial Intelligence Over the past year, Fordham and its community have increasingly embraced AI through initiatives such as Remy, a chatbot that provides resources for students, and discourse about how to use AI ethically. Tetlow explained the four areas of interest regarding AI that Fordham has been focusing on. The first is AI and operations, which Tetlow said looks at how the university can use AI to improve operations and improve the student experience without using AI as a replacement for necessary human work. The second area is about how faculty are using AI in their research. The third area is AI’s implementation in the classroom. Tetlow said it is up to faculty to decide how they use AI in their classes, whether that means banning it completely or using it as a pedagogical tool. She said that overall, it’s important for students to be prepared with the skills to use AI in the workplace while also ensuring they don’t use it to complete their assignments. The fourth area Fordham is looking at is how AI is affecting the economy and the workforce, and students’ opportunities after college. Tetlow said Fordham is in charge of its students’ hopes, dreams and futures, and that to ensure students’ success, it’s important for the university to remain informed and ahead of the evolving AI landscape. “The world is tilting towards us,” Tetlow said. “It definitely helps that we are in New York, in the center of so much opportunity. So I think we will have advantages in that way, but I want very much for us to not wait, ’cause this change is happening so fast.” Tetlow also spoke about the university’s new AI chatbot, Remy, which is intended to provide students with resources and support. Specifically, she addressed student and faculty concerns that the program is replacing human support. “ The Remy project is a pilot, and so we’re eager for that feedback,” Tetlow said. “The intent of it is not that it supplants emotional support of students, but that it gets students attached to a human being as soon as possible.” Tetlow said the chatbot has many safeguards, including data showing if a student is becoming overreliant on Remy. Tetlow added that the university has seen an increase in students going to Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Affairs and advising since the program was implemented. She said the

technology solving a longfor next yeariswill be what they time problem of students not were for this year, but we’ll reading their emails, which have more information about typically provide the fact that thatinformation popularity on the previously mentioned hopefully will continue, and services. we’ll plan accordingly.” Tetlow shared her thoughts onArtificial Pope Leo XIV’s recent enIntelligence cyclical on AI, in which he Over the past year, Fordham called for protecting human and its community have dignity in the age of AI. Tetlow increasingly embraced AI said she thought the such encyclithrough initiatives as cal wasa amazing and provides that she Remy, chatbot that hopes that for everybody reads it. resources students, and She highlighted Leo’s emphadiscourse about how to use AI sis on the ethics of AI and exethically. plained how that concept applies to Fordham’s community. Tetlow explained the four “ He specifically about areas of interest talks regarding how crucial it is that we AI that Fordham has teach been ethics, because gofocusing on. Theyou firstallis are AI and ing to have to grapple with operations, which Tetlow said serious moral issues about looks at how the university can using AI today,” said. use AI to improveTetlow operations “ Fordham alumsthe go out and and improve student have a whole lot of power in experience without using AI the world … and we want to as a replacement for necessary know that you’ll use that powhuman work. er well, given all these moral The choices coming the second area down is about line.” how faculty are using AI in Regarding recent their research.aThe third rally area held by Fordham’s chapter of is AI’s implementation in the Young Democratic Socialists classroom. Tetlow said it is of America, an to unofficial up to faculty decide club, how calling for Fordham impose they use AI in theirto classes, AI regulations, Tetlow said whether that means banning it would be a significant step it completely or using it as to pedagogical tell Fordham’s community a tool. She said that they weren’t to that overall, it’s allowed important use AI. “ That’s not what academic freedom really means. That would be a regulation of how we think and our curiosity about the world. That’s not normal at a university,” Tetlow said. Tetlow added that AI is increasingly integrated into society and unavoidable, so it’s necessary to teach students how to use the technology properly. “We need to teach you how to engage with it, and like every powerful tool, it can be abused. And what Leo asks is not that we all disconnect from technology, but that we own the moral choices involved and pay far closer attention to how we use it,” Tetlow said. “Fordham takes very seriously trying to puzzle through those issues in relation to our values as a Catholic institution and to keep trying to get it right as it changes every day.” Title IX Tetlow was also asked about a 2024 Title IX investigation at Cornell University into an alleged gang rape, an incident that has recently made national news after the complainant, referred to only as Jane Doe, sued the university. Tetlow spoke about her experience with sexual assault and the Title IX process, drawing both from her time as a prosecutor and her experience in higher education. She explained that it’s a university’s job to protect its students from these kinds of situations. “The work we do in a university is to try our best to build a bubble against the evils of the

world, knowing we don’t for students to that be prepared have that power, but that with the skills to use AI inwhat the we can dowhile is obviously state workplace also ensuring our values, they don’t usehave it to reporting complete mechanisms that their assignments. encourage students to trust us, to communicate thosearea well,Fordham to know The fourth that any student held is looking at is howresponAI is sible for sexual violence after affecting the economy and abundant fair due is the workforce, andprocess students’ held accountable for that,” opportunities after college. Tetlow said. Tetlow said Fordham is in Tetlow that she becharge of added its students’ hopes, lieves it’s important to addreams and futures, and that vance prevention of sexual to ensure students’ success, it’s assault, which she said doesn’t important for the university to just mean helpingand students remain informed ahead to of protect themselves against an the evolving AI landscape. assaulter, but also working to prevent people from commit“The world is tilting towards ting acts of sexual in us,” Tetlow said. “It assault definitely the first place. helps that we are in New “I think rootof cause of York, in thethe center so much this is selfishness, exacerbatopportunity. So I think we will ed by advantages entitlement.inAnd I think have that way, that not only do we but I want very much forteach us to about consent the very not wait, ’cause and this change is specific issues at play happening so fast.” here, we try to push back against the lies of misogyny, whichabout also Tetlow also spoke are part of the underlying the university’s new isAI sue,” Tetlow said. “Itwhich gives me chatbot, Remy, is hope thattoFordham talk intended provide folk students aboutresources values in and our out-loud with support. voice more than inSpecifically, shea secular addressed stitution might feel comfortastudent and faculty concerns ble doing.” that the program is replacing Tetlow also explained her human support. thoughts on Greek life in general, stating project that sheisbe“ The Remy a lieves it is divisive and that she is glad it is not present at Fordham. Faculty Negotiations Over the summer, Fordham’s Board of Trustees imposed a 3% salary pool on faculty after failed negotiations. Tetlow explained why the administration did not raise their offer, despite a faculty push for a 4% salary pool. “ We worked really hard to come up with a raise pool in a year when we’re taking all kinds of other financial hits,” Tetlow said. “A lot of higher Ed did wage freezes this year or much lower raise pools than we were able to come up with, so we got to 3%, which we’re proud of.” Tetlow said that because the university’s revenue had increased by only 1% in the past year, they were unable to increase faculty salaries

by more 3%. eager She said pilot, and than so we’re for that since the faculty didsaid. not that feedback,” Tetlow acceptintent the university’s offer, “The of it is not that it they were at an impasse, leadsupplants emotional support ingstudents, to the imposition a salaof but thatof it gets ry increase based on what the students attached to a human board felt was responsible being as soon as possible.” for Fordham’s budget. There have been recent Tetlow said also the chatbot has changes to faculty inmany safeguards, health including surance. In the past, their covdata showing if a student erage included overreliant two categories: is becoming on employee and Remy. Tetlowemployee added plus that benefits. Recently, univerthe university hastheseen an sity announced changes increase in students goingthat to would create categoCounseling andmore Psychological ries, which Tetlow Affairs said would Services, Student and solve the issue of single paradvising since the program entsimplemented. overpaying She for said health was the insurance to subsidize technology is solving a other longgroups. time problem of students not “ It’s one of those cross-cutreading their emails, which ting issues,” Tetlow said. “This typically provide information is not one that the administraon the aforementioned tion has a stake in. It’s more services. about, you know, how do we create the best for emTetlow also equity shared her ployees, right? What the thoughts on Pope Leo isXIV’s most fair route?” recent encyclical on AI, in Tetlow explained that the which he called for protecting administration consulted human dignity in the age ofwith AI. a healthcare advisory Tetlow said she thoughtcomthe mittee, which encyclical was includes amazingfaculand ty representatives, and ultithat she hopes that everybody matelyit.decided to changeLeo’s the reads She highlighted health insurance. However, emphasis on the ethics of Tetlow that the Faculty AI and said explained how that Senate is upset about the uniconcept applies to Fordham’s versity’s decision, and she community. shared the university’s view on faculty opinions. “ The senate didn’t vote against this change, but they’re arguing that unless they decide to vote for it, it can’t go forward, and that they determine this on behalf of all the people who work here. And on that, we just disagree,” Tetlow said. “The worry is that if a subset of employees decides what equity looks like on a topic like this for everybody, that that’s not fair to the other people who work here.” Tuition When asked if tuition will increase again next academic year, Tetlow said it would, citing rising costs. “The inflation that hits you so hard also hits the university,” Tetlow said. “We have a choice every year between raising tuition to cover those increased costs or cutting what we provide to you in

order to keep tuition flat. “ He specifically talks about Those are the trade-offs we how crucial it is that we teach face. So we do some of both. ethics, because you all are We trytovery to be with frugoing havehard to grapple gal, to do everything we can serious moral issues about to cut, become more effiusing AI today,” Tetlow said. first, alums without “cient Fordham goaffecting out and the quality of your have a whole lot education of power andthe student in world support.” … and we want Bronx Jobs Center to knowGreen that you’ll use that Tetlow provided updates power well, given all these on the university’s moral choices coming Bronx down Green Jobs Center, a prothe line.” ject aimed at connecting the Bronx to New Regarding a York’s recent green rally economy. Tetlow said conheld by Fordham’s chapter of struction of the Socialists building Young Democratic is America, going well and is set to of an unofficial club, be completed soon, as the calling for Fordham to impose building is expected to open AI regulations, Tetlow said its doors in January. it would be a significant step shared why the center toTetlow tell Fordham’s community is important for Fordham that they weren’t allowedand to the Bronx community. use AI. “ It is a reminder to New York of what Fordham’s al“ That’s not what academic ways been famous for, that we freedom really means. That are rooted the Bronx and would be a in regulation of how in New York like no other, that we think and our curiosity our relationships with this about the world. That’s not community are long,” Tetlow normal at a university,” Tetlow said. “We have earned trust said. over decades, right? We are not just taking Tetlow addedthings that up AI beis cause they are trendy. We’ve increasingly integrated into been there. so havingso a society and And unavoidable, shining physical example of it’s necessary to teach students that on welhow to Fordham use the Road, technology coming the community in is a properly. great reminder of that.” New Building at Lincoln Center Fordham is currently considering constructing a new building on Columbus Avenue, near Lincoln Center. Tetlow said they would likely sell or rent air rights above the building to pay for its construction. She explained that the hope is to expand the space at Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus. “When we look at the number of students per square foot of space, we know that Lincoln Center is an extraordinary location, but it is very dense,” Tetlow said. “The traffic jams of the Lowenstein elevators I experience constantly, and they are real. And so our ability to add classrooms, to add student gathering space for this community that has some but not enough, is really exciting.”

HANNAH SULLIVAN/THE FORDHAM RAM

President Tania Tetlow discusses Fordham issues with student journalists at Leon Lowenstein Center.

NEWS

Page 4

November 4, 2026

A Look at the New York Gubernatorial Candidates FROM ELECTION PAGE 1

are planned for New York City, with $103 million for ICL-Variety Residences at Astoria in Queens, $98.6 million for Findlay House in the Bronx, $70.3 million for Bridge Inwood in Manhattan, $14.2 million for Concourse Village in the Bronx and $3 million for Franklin Lafayette in Brooklyn. In February 2025, Hochul signed legislation to enable providers who prescribe medications used to perform abortions to request that the dispensing pharmacy print the name of their practice on prescription labels instead of their personal name. “Reproductive freedom will always be protected in the State of New York — and I’ll never back down from this fight,” Hochul said. On Aug. 14, Hochul announced that her administration had invested $4 billion in public safety throughout her tenure. These public safety initiatives include gun violence prevention, subway safety, hate crime prevention and border security. Hochul’s

administration reported that New York State has seen a 10% decrease in index crime, a reduction in all seven crime categories and more than a 60% decline in shooting deaths since her first year in office. Bruce Blakeman is an attorney and has served as the 10th county executive of Nassau County since 2021. The Republican candidate focused on lowering taxes, reducing energy costs, supporting public safety and immigration policies and implementing social policies during his campaign. Blakeman was endorsed by President Donald Trump and New York State Senator Steve Chan. On Oct. 30, Blakeman signed the Americans for Tax Reform Taxpayer Protection & Tax Relief Pledge, demonstrating a commitment to oppose increases in income, property and energy taxes. He also pledged to oppose new inheritance taxes and unfunded state mandates that could increase local property taxes. During his time as Nassau

County executive, Blakeman kept a flat budgeted property tax levy, which he used as an example of how he would approach taxation and government spending as governor. Blakeman has continuously expressed his support for 287(g) agreements, which train and authorize local police forces to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In early 2025, Blakeman entered Nassau County into an agreement to work with ICE. This “task force” agreement gave deputized officers the authority to question residents’ citizenship status and make arrests without a judicial warrant. Blakeman stated during his campaign that his administration had removed 2,000 immigrants living in the country illegally with criminal records. Regarding social issues, Blakeman highlighted during his campaign that he signed an executive order banning transgender women and girls from competing in women’s and girls’ sports at Nassau County facilities. When it comes to abortion

rights, Blakeman described himself as pro-choice, shocking many Republican New Yorkers. “I trust women to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions,” Blakeman said during his campaign. The Fordham College Democrats club did not explicitly endorse a candidate for this election, but the Fordham College Republicans club endorsed Blakeman via Instagram on Oct. 5.

Mary Kibby, FCRH ’30, is a member of the Fordham College Democrats. If Kibby were not a resident of Chicago, she said she would have voted for Hochul because of her “significant” investment in public transit, which is especially important for college students in New York City who use it regularly. “I think it’s important for us to look for candidates that take the concerns of younger people seriously,” Kibby said.

MURIEL CORLEY FOR THE FORDHAM RAM

The Grace H. Dodge Career and Technical School is a polling site near Rose Hill.

Updates on Walsh Hall Construction FROM WALSH HALL PAGE 1

was delayed because when construction for phase two began, undocumented pipes were discovered and had to be investigated to determine whether they were still active and necessary. New materials have been ordered to continue construction, and the new expected completion date is January 2027. “We understand that it can be an eyesore, and we try to expedite and do it as quickly as possible. And we appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation throughout the entire process,” Sino said. In response to efforts to minimize disruptions caused by the building’s construction for students, Sino explained that work for these kinds of

projects is prioritized for the summer when students aren’t impacted by the construction. But, in circumstances where the project is more complex than can be completed in the duration of summer alone, the project continues into the academic year. During the academic year, the start time for construction has been delayed from the usual time of 7 a.m. to either 8 or 9 a.m., and lasts until 5 p.m. “We try to minimize any disturbances that are felt, that the students would feel when they’re in the dorm rooms or even with the classrooms,” Sino said. Sino said that the estimated budget for the renovations is just under $5 million. There are currently no

other building renovations in the plan, but Sino explained that a proposal for next year’s budget is currently in the works and the budget approval for it will take place around March 2027. A resident at Walsh Hall, Harrison Kelson, GSB ’29, said that the construction taking place affects his sleep schedule and his ability to get work done. “Many times I’ve had to wake up very early to the sound of construction underneath my floor, outside my window … and it has happened on days in which I have midterms which is very upsetting, especially because I like to go to bed later and waking up at an unnatural time is just not healthy for

my mental health,” Kelson said. Kelson also noted that there have been few construction

updates, and he has not been informed of what the renovations going on at Walsh Hall are for.

GRACE KAWECKI/ THE FORDHAM RAM

A time estimate for the completion of the construction at Walsh Hall is January.

New York Governor Announced FROM GOVERNOR PAGE 1

counted, and the total number of New Yorkers who voted in this election, as well as the percentage of votes won by Hochul and Blakeman, cannot yet be stated. The Ram spoke to about 15 students on campus after results were called to ask about their thoughts on Hochul’s reelection. While most students either didn’t know who Hochul or Blakeman were or didn’t know that there was an election occurring, a few students did share their opinions. “I’m very excited,” said Finnegan Marshall, FCRH ’29.

“Bruce Blakeman really sucks, and [Hochul’s] great.” Marshall was returning from a watch party with the Fordham Young Democrats club along with his friends. Maya Derico, FCRH ’29, who is a native New Yorker and voted in New York, agreed with Marshall’s take on the election. “As someone who’s lived in New York my whole life, I feel the same,” Derico said. Another New York native, Evelyn Emerson, GSB ’29, who voted in New York’s 19th Congressional District, said that she feels proud to live in New York.

“As a New Yorker, it’s encouraging to see that we still remain a blue state despite the heavily conservative areas of Upstate New York,” Emerson said. “Kathy Hochul has never been my first choice, but in this political day and age she is the clear choice for NYS Governor, and there is no question about that.” Hochul’s election platform largely rested on lowering costs for New Yorkers and putting money back into their pockets through actions like energy rebate checks, expanding childcare access and increasing safety for

New Yorkers. On the election trail, she often criticized her opponent for his relationship with President Donald Trump and his support for many of Trump’s policies, including regarding deportation efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Blakeman, who currently serves as Nassau County executive, ran on cutting taxes for New Yorkers and making New York safer with actions like removing New York City’s status as a sanctuary city. Blakeman also criticized Hochul’s relationships with other politicians, specifically that of New York City Mayor

Zohran Mamdani. Other races in New York’s midterm election included 26 seats in the House of Representatives and the state attorney general, a position currently held by Letitia James. New York City also had five proposals on the ballot, all of which passed. This year’s midterm election saw many races that would determine who controls the U.S. House and Senate, including in Alabama, Arizona, California and Colorado. Democrats officially won control of the House, according to NBC, prior to all House races being called.

November 4, 2026

OPINION Stop Saying Things You Don’t Mean

By INDIGO TOWERS COPY CHIEF

TW: Discussion of suicide “Think before you speak.” It is not a new concept; it’s a demand that has been made of us our entire lives. And yet, how often have you found yourself with your foot in your mouth or cringing with second-hand embarrassment at one of your peers’ comments that didn’t quite land? There is one phrase that for some odd reason has made its way into the daily vernacular of many of my peers, one that people assume is diluted by being turned into an acronym: “KYS,” as in “kill yourself.” The phrase is used casually and often. So often in fact that as of May 2018, it was added to Dictionary. com. Dictionary.com defines “KYS” as “an internet acronym standing for ‘kill yourself,’ used as a taunt or form of harassment issued after someone has done something considered embarrassing or pathetic.” It seems ridiculous to me that I have to explain how backward this definition is. Most of all, I find its affirmation of the phrase as nothing more than “an internet acronym” offensive. While its

popularity may have arisen due to the internet, the definition should consist of nothing more than what the acronym stands for. Rather, Dictionary.com identifies the term’s usage as a “taunt” in response to someone else’s behavior. In other words, if you do something “embarrassing or pathetic,” you have put yourself in a position to be told to “kill yourself.” I am no stranger to dark and offensive humor. My dad raised me on shows like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “South Park” and “Family Guy.” While I don’t disagree that shows like these also have the potential to normalize offensive language or behavior as they enter the cultural canon, I believe it’s important to acknowledge that viewers enter an implicit agreement wherein they identify as someone who finds offensive jokes funny. Additionally, dark humor, when done correctly (take notes, Shane Gillis and Matt Rife), is actually funny. I find it difficult, however, to trace where exactly telling someone to take their own life is humorous. I have taken this stance before and been called “soft” or a “snowflake.” Terms that mean absolutely nothing to

anybody who has lost one or more people to suicide. According to the CDC, the suicide rates in the U.S. have only been increasing since 2013, and there have been more than 45,000 deaths by suicide per year since 2016. In addition, for a long time there was a misconception that with each suicide only six additional people are affected. However, in an article published by the National Institutes of Health, it was found that roughly 135 people are affected by a single suicide. Furthermore, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention found that 14.3 million Americans contemplate suicide, and 2.2 million attempt suicide, annually. All this is to say that it is likely that when you say “kill yourself” to or in front of someone, they have been affected by suicide in some way. I am not perfect either. I am not proud to admit “KMS” and “KYS” have been a part of my vocabulary in the past, and I’m even more embarrassed that it wasn’t until I lost somebody to suicide that I stopped saying it. I had assumed, as many do, that somehow my own thoughts or ideations of suicide gave me some special

authority to make jokes. However, it does not — there is no excuse, reason or justification for joking about suicide. Therefore, I would like to take the opportunity to call on those who use the phrase to reflect on their privilege. And as evidenced by the data, it is a privilege. I also ask those who are one of the 14.3 million and feel entitled to using either “KMS” or “KYS” to consider when it is appropriate to make jokes about an issue as sensitive and pervasive as suicide. Remember when you are casually having a conversation in public, even among friends, that nobody else has entered into the agreement that they find offensiveness funny. While I can’t speak to everyone’s experience, I can say that in my own, the phrase will never be normalized. I will always feel uncomfortable and jarred when I read or hear someone say “KYS” or “kill yourself.” I think of those I have lost due to suicide and its impact on my relationships, and nowhere can I find the understanding for those who flagrantly disregard the real impact suicide has in this country. I think of my parents telling me that

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my Aunt Anne had “died of a broken heart, like Padme from ‘Star Wars,’” because that’s the only way six-yearold me could conceptualize suicide; of my best friends and our relationship that no longer exists because grieving suicide was unlike any other grief we had experienced; of the nearly 50,000 Americans who died by suicide last year and the 2.2 million who attempted. “Think before you speak.” In case you never considered the impact of saying “KYS,” now you have something to think about. Albeit it may seem extreme, consider the consequences of somebody taking what you said seriously, and very quickly the phrase loses all humor. If you are, or someone you know is, experiencing thoughts of suicide, or are in a crisis, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Indigo Towers, FCRH, ’27, is an English major and double-minor in anthropology and theology from Königstein, Germany.

A Rift in Ranks? Trump’s Silence on JD Vance By ETHAN BESS ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

There are many things to say about Vice President JD Vance, but I view him in the same negative light as many Americans. To me, he’s the most uncharismatic, unserious, puppet-like, wishy-washy politician I’ve ever seen. It is insane that someone who once called President Donald Trump “America’s Hitler” would later become his vice president. This lets me know he really doesn’t have any principles that he is loyal to. It could also explain why many Americans have an unfavorable view of him. Although he isn’t the president, being the vice president means that you are directly within the president’s earshot as he makes decisions about the U.S. I would expect decisions such as universal tariffs, aggressive and illegal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, the illegal and offensive war against Iran and the belittling of Americans’ concerns about the cost of living to tank one’s popularity. Speaking of which, it should serve as a reason that Trump has yet to endorse Vance for the 2028 presidential election. Vance was originally seen as a successor to Trump after, or if, he leaves office in 2028. He has been touted by figures like Charlie Kirk as the ultimate

successor to keep the Make America Great Again (MAGA) experiment alive. However, given the utter chaos the current Trump administration has inflicted on the U.S. in the past year and a half, it’s safe to say that it’s likely this experiment is running its course. Vance’s association with the record of the Trump administration as vice president will be hard to defend to the public, especially in a general election. Trump was elected in 2024 after winning the Electoral College 312-226 against former vice president Kamala Harris. Namely, running on a platform of being anti-war, going after his enemies and lowering the cost of living, Americans seemed to gravitate towards Trump’s policy promises more than those of Harris, since she served in the Biden administration. During the opening months of Trump’s first term, he had a +15 rating among independent voters. At the time this article is being written, that now sits at -71. Independent voters played a large role in giving Trump a second term but have ultimately soured on the president at this point in his presidency. The fall from grace for this administration could prove to be tough for Vance, being associated with all the things the Trump administration has done since it came

back to power. Because of this association and the fact that the Trump administration currently has a 32% approval rating, the road for Vance has ultimately become a kind of no man’s land. Trump himself has even expressed concerns and has criticized Vance and his actions behind closed doors. In my view, we can also tie this concern to a slew of races domestically and internationally where a handful of Trump-backed candidates lost their elections. Earlier this year in Hungary, Viktor Orbán lost his election to Péter Magyar and the opposition center-right party TISZA. In Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić conceded after losing to a student-led opposition. And most recently in Brazil, Lula defeated Flavío Bolsonaro, son of imprisoned former Brazilian president and prominent Trump ally Jair Bolsonaro. All three candidates were directly or indirectly supported by the Trump administration, and it even interfered in Brazil’s election process to bring the Bolsonaro family back to power. Despite having no evidence to back his claim, Trump took to the press to declare the re-election of Lula as “rigged.” Although these outcomes won’t stop the Trump administration from endorsing candidates in the future, Trump will have a harder time due

to candidates he’s endorsed losing and a rebuke of rightwing politics. This loss of support could be a warning to the Trump administration that its effects and actions are not just being rejected domestically; they are being rejected internationally as well. The Iran War, as well as the U.S.’s continued support for Israel, are playing into that rejection. So, while Vance may still seek Trump’s endorsement if he decides to run in 2028, it’s very likely to harm him more than it would help. At a time when the Democratic Party is poised to take both the House and the Senate in the midterms, it’ll set up a very difficult road for Vance’s path to the presidency. If Vance were to get an endorsement from

Trump in 2028, it could set up a very problematic race due to the Trump administration’s actions and unpopularity. Such unpopularity has forced members of the Republican Party to abandon mentioning his name and to pretend to oppose his policies around data centers, the Iran War and his universal tariffs. Given that Vance has begged the American public to give Republicans and the Trump administration another chance, he’ll likely be soundly rejected by the public if he does decide to run for president in 2028. At this point, I believe the damage is irreversible. Ethan Bess, FCRH ’27, is a film and television major from Roanoke, Texas.

COURTESY OF ABC NEWS

Vance’s unpopularity raises doubts on if he is the best option to succeed Trump.

OPINION

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November 4, 2026

Reality Check | War in Iran

We Can’t Afford to Forget About Iran By DOMENICK FEDELE COLUMNIST

Over the past few weeks, the midterms have dominated headlines across the country. As we discussed last week, while every election is somehow the “most important” of your life, the 2026 midterms have a strong case for being the dumbest ever. Since that column was published, Haley Stevens endorsed Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan, earning her excommunication from the state Democratic Party, new revelations further complicated the Dan Sullivan name saga in Alaska and the Trump administration escalated efforts to sequester ballots from alleged non-citizens in California. Dumb and dumber — and while the mass coverage of these and countless other midterm-related issues is understandable, it makes it even easier to forget that the United States is actively at war. Paradoxically, our modern 24/7 media environment likely plays a huge role in this forgetfulness. There is essentially unlimited availability of news, graphic videos and various other content related to war at most a few clicks away on the internet. However, the interest in

actually consuming this content is incredibly short-lived. The Ukraine War, which has now dragged on for over four years, is a useful case study, as it is the first major war that can undeniably be considered to be waged solely in the modern Western media world. When Russia launched its shock invasion in February 2022, wall-towall coverage immediately ensued, which was more or less maintained for a few months. By the end of April, however, coverage of the war by major media outlets had essentially collapsed. Today, over four years later, the only way to find news about the Ukraine War is to intentionally seek it out, which the average citizen is almost certainly not doing. The Iran War is not a perfect analog, because it obviously has more direct effects on the United States. In a way, that makes the decline in coverage and public concern even more chilling. A closer parallel is probably the forever wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, but those conflicts were launched before the age of social media and in the shadow of the devastating 9/11 attacks. The justifications were flimsy at best at the time, and later revealed to be total garbage, but at least

they were somewhat plausible. In the first six days of our current war in Iran, the Trump administration offered at least 10 distinct “justifications” for the conflict, ranging from self-defense in the face of an imminent threat to the U.S. to preempting a planned Israeli attack. If his efforts aren’t an example of throwing things at the wall until they stick, I don’t know what is. Despite their best efforts, no matter how many reasons they threw out, none stuck. At no point since the first American attacks on Iran has public approval for the war exceeded 40%. By contrast, the initial U.S. strikes on Iraq and Afghanistan enjoyed strong majority support. While this support collapsed, at least the public ostensibly supported the administration’s foreign policy to some extent. When Trump launched the war in Iran, it was perhaps the least popular conflict in American history, largely because even if you accepted the government’s statements with no skepticism at all, their scattershot justifications don’t even agree with each other. This deeply unpopular and nonsensical war has left 23 Americans dead and nearly 1,000 wounded, many more seriously than previously

disclosed. Civilian casualties are impossible to reliably estimate but are certainly in the thousands. Amnesty International and other human rights groups have detailed the horrors of the American airstrikes on civilian targets across Iran. The Pentagon’s own investigation concluded that flawed intelligence and reliance on artificial intelligence led to the devastating strike on a girls school in Minab that killed 123 children. Trump has continually downplayed the massacre and even attempted to blame Iran, a claim which convinced nobody with a functioning brain. While these early atrocities did attract coverage and outrage, media attention has collapsed just like with the Ukraine War. As discussed in the past, there appears to be an added element of deliberate distraction employed by the Trump administration, from Lake America to Trump Dividends, in an effort to assist the public in becoming numb to the war. Diplomacy does remain on the table, as mediators meet in Qatar for talks for what seems to be the thousandth time. Yet, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pushed Trump to restart strikes in a call this weekend, which is in the

wake of Israel’s elections. Given the track record, it appears incredibly unlikely that any long-term diplomatic solution can be achieved with the current administrations in the United States and Israel. Trump has repeatedly and explicitly tied additional strikes on Iran to the midterm elections, and the U.S. has warned allies in the region to prepare for more conflict after Nov. 3. Additional military assets are already in the region, and Trump has reportedly been mulling the use of the “mother of all bombs,” the largest non-nuclear bomb in America’s arsenal, against Iran. Far more devastating and deadly attacks appear to be on the horizon, and yet mainstream media has all but relegated the conflict as a background piece. The midterm elections are undoubtedly important, but as good citizens we must not forget that we are members of a nation engaged in an unjust war. Apathy is the greatest gift the public can give to such a regime.

Domenick Fedele, FCRH ’29, is a political science major from Yorktown, New York.

Private Profit at the Expense of South Bronx By CLAUDIA SENKE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

While the rest of New York City benefits from the waste services and transportation networks concentrated in the South Bronx, local residents pay the price in polluted air and heightened health risks. In Mott Haven and Port Morris, children face the worst of this environmental burden, experiencing disproportionately high asthma rates in their own communities. Now, a major warehouse developer is considering purchasing the former New York Post printing plant near the South Bronx waterfront, giving officials an opportunity to challenge the pattern of placing environmental burdens on local residents. The South Bronx waterfront represents a long-sought promise of cleaner energy and recreational space for local residents. But in the minds of profit-driven warehouse developers, acquiring the site offers a chance to expand distribution networks and secure valuable real estate. For the past decade, South Bronx residents have developed a proposal to transform the property into a clean energy hub with solar panels and recreational space. South Bronx Unite and other community organizations have advocated for a future that would reconnect

residents with their waterfront. Meanwhile, Prologis, a warehouse developer whose largest client is Amazon, has reportedly expressed interest in purchasing the property. Residents are requesting environmental impact studies and feasibility tests before officials make decisions about the site. While the outcome remains open and Prologis said it is not under immediate contract to purchase the property, government intervention is still an urgent necessity. With rallies and public protests erupting across the South Bronx, well-founded anger over the future of the site continues to grow. In the 1990s, the New York State Department of Transportation was accused of compromising the well-being of its citizens by leasing this South Bronx site of debate to a private developer. Since the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, companies like Amazon and FedEx have continuously expanded their destructive local presence, bringing increased noise pollution, heavy truck traffic and diesel fumes to their surrounding neighborhood. Part of the former printing plant and its entire parking lot sit on state-owned land. Public ownership should give officials an opportunity to consider what the property can contribute to the surrounding community. The question of ownership,

however, extends beyond legal titles and deeds. While a corporation like Prologis may hold the legal right to lease the property, the consequences of its decisions extend far beyond its borders. Industrial development limits community access to the waterfront, and diesel emissions risk polluting nearby residential areas. Since local residents face the lived consequences of land-use decisions, they deserve meaningful input into the governance of these spaces. Public officials must stand up for their constituents, especially on stateowned land. If the state lets a company build on public property, the project should clearly benefit the community. Sale or lease revenue cannot be the only measure of success. Officials must evaluate whether a project will worsen pollution and account for the needs of nearby families. Diesel trucks carrying shipments to and from warehouses create exhaust emissions that threaten public health. While company spokesperson Mattie Sorrentino claims that Prologis will “continue to grow relationships here and be a long-term partner,” the firm has spent more than $100,000 lobbying city officials against anti-pollution safeguards, including policies that would require operators of mega-warehouses to actively reduce truck emissions and

COURTESY OF THE CITY REPORTER

A printing plant in the South Bronx has raised concerns over clean energy.

track air quality control. With little to no interaction with residents, Prologis’ commitment to keeping the public safe seems insincere. Officials must give residents influence in active discussions before an agreement determines the site’s future. Public meetings do not mean much if the people most affected can only voice their concerns after decisions have already been made. Residents should have access to information about these proposed developments and an opportunity to shape the criteria officials use to evaluate them. Environmental justice requires the power to participate in deciding the future of the neighborhood and ensuring its ability to thrive in ways that serve the community. By allowing commercial development to override the public interest, the New York City government risks repeating a historical precedent: treating

the South Bronx as a place to generate private profit while residents bear the environmental costs. The New York Post’s former printing plant will become a test of whether the government will challenge that arrangement or continue to accommodate it. The future of the site will reveal whether public officials are willing to change the way they approach development in the South Bronx. While a clean energy hub cannot undo the environmental injustice inflicted upon the community, prioritizing corporate profits over public health sends the message that the lives of South Bronx residents are negotiable. Public officials must draw a line and prove that community well-being outweighs corporate greed. Claudia Senke, FCRH ’30, is an English major from Basking Ridge, New Jersey.

OPINION

November 4, 2026

R

Serving the Fordham University campus and community since 1918 The Fordham Ram is the university journal of record. The mission of The Fordham Ram is to provide a forum for the free and open exchange of ideas in service to the community and to act as a student advocate. The Fordham Ram is published every Wednesday during the academic year to all campuses.

Website TheFordhamRam.com Email Address theram@fordham.edu Editor-in-Chief Sienna Reinders Managing Editor Ian Nelson Production Editor Sarah Verrastro Editorial Director Molly O’Connor Multimedia Director Hannah Sullivan Business Director Nishanth Aduma News Editor Emma Leonardi Features Editor Caydence Jones Assistant News Editors Gabriel Capellan Grace Kawecki Opinion Editor Loresa Zeqiraj Assistant Opinion Editors Erynn Sweeney Elaina Gibson Culture Editors Lara Ejzak Makenzie Smith Assistant Culture Editor Kelly Buban Sports Editor James Nelson Assistant Sports Editors Molly Friedman Ethan Bess Copy Chief Indigo Towers Executive Copy Editors Emma Kelner Amelia Stricherz Hannah Michalowski Mia Smith Photo/Graphics Editor Emily McCall Wilson Speller Social Media Director Marisa House Digital Producers Han Le Haniyyah Usmani Advertising Directors Violet Wallace Juan-Pablo Valencia Rishika Lingamdinne Faculty Advisor Beth Knobel Editorial Policy The Fordham Ram’s editorial reflects the editorial board’s opinions or views. Opinion Policy The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of The Fordham Ram. Submission Policy The Fordham Ram reserves the right to reject or edit any submission for any reasion, without notice. Submissions become the exclusive property of The Fordham Ram. No part of The Fordham Ram may be reproduced without written consent. Correction Policy The Fordham Ram is committed to fair and accurate reporting. If you are aware of an error, please contact us at fordhamramonline@gmail.com.

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From the Desk | Nishanth Aduma

Reflecting on The Ram With Commencement coming up in May, and my time on The Ram ending this semester, I have been thinking about how much I have learned since first arriving at Fordham University and how many people have helped me along the way. Before Fordham, I spent a year at Hult Business School in Boston. I enjoyed studying business, but I wanted a broader college experience, with a liberal arts curriculum and room to explore interests outside of finance. I also hoped to find people who would become lifelong friends. When I visited Fordham, I loved the campus and could picture myself spending the next couple of years here, even though I had little idea what those years would look like. I arrived at Rose Hill as a sophomore and soon learned that settling in would take some time. Some of my closest friends today are people I met at transfer orientation, but between coursework, living on my own and getting used to a new school, I was still figuring out where I fit in. I wanted to get involved in something I enjoyed and give myself a reason to spend

more time around our campus. That is how I ended up at The Ram. I had loved writing in middle school and high school, and joining the newspaper was a good way to return to it. Finance already occupied plenty of my time, so I liked having the chance to explore another interest. I started as a contributing writer, choosing topics that interested me and gradually getting more involved. Seeing my name in print for the first time made me far prouder than I expected. Naturally, I wanted to show my friends that I had an article in the paper. There was something exciting about being able to pick up an issue and see my work in it, especially while I was still getting to know the school. Feeling comfortable on staff took longer, and it was about a year before I really felt settled. Community events helped, as did simply spending more time with everyone. I became an advertising director and later Business Director, getting to know more people as my responsibilities grew. Some of those early e-board meetings felt a bit awkward, but eventually

I was walking into a room of friends. Looking back at it now, I have to say I will miss budget nights, e-board and business meetings, which have become regular parts of my week. Thinking about that has made me want to be more intentional about the time I have left here. I love trying new restaurants in the city, and there are still so many places I want to go with my friends before I graduate. It is easy to talk about making plans and then let another week pass, especially when everyone has something due. During the spring semester, I hope to cross Chicago, Charleston and Miami off of my travel list while also carving out some time to explore more restaurants and bars in Brooklyn. There is plenty I

want to do, both far away and a subway ride from campus. Between classes, responsibilities and thinking about what comes after college, there is always a reason to postpone a trip or leave dinner plans for another week. I am trying to get better at making those plans anyway, because spending time with people matters to me just as much as the goals I am working toward. One thing I will definitely do is watch one movie a week at AMC Lincoln Center. Back in Boston, I used to watch at least two a week, as it was always a great way to relax after finishing my classes. I am looking forward to what comes next while enjoying all that Fordham has to offer. Starting with a visit to Enzo’s for dinner this weekend!

Editorial | Following Your Passions

Life is Short, Follow Your Passions The holidays are approaching, and we all know what that means. The dreaded questions of “What are you studying at school?” and the consequential “Oh! What are you gonna do with that?” (then in hushed tones, “Will you make any money with that degree?”). You grin and get through the painfully long conversations with Aunt Carol and Grandpa Joe, but you can’t help but feel a little discouraged when people don’t take your course of study seriously. The constant fearmongering of college students, especially humanities students, that “AI is gonna take all your jobs! Study something more reliable!” is not exactly based in reality. While yes, we are in the midst of a technological boom that has some companies prioritizing convenience over good quality human-produced work, the reality right now is different from what some artificial intelligence (AI) leaders want us to believe. Currently, there is very little evidence that AI is causing significant job loss. This is not to say there haven’t been any impacts on workers due to the AI boom, but instead that the impacts are not as drastic or dire as the overload of information about AI can make it seem. Still, the

threat is there, and it’s scary for many college students. Unemployment rates for new college graduates reached 5.6% at the beginning of this year, 1.6% higher than just three years ago. Growth in AI use amongst companies is rapid, but uneven. Though current evidence of job loss from AI is not significant, that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t become a larger issue. Still, that doesn’t mean we need to immediately throw in the towel at the first sign of danger. At the end of the day, AI can never replicate the human spirit that is required to do passionate work and make art, and the obsession bubble will inevitably burst. More and more people are becoming frustrated with the constant presence of AI in everything from graphic design to customer service call lines. The likelihood of AI continuing to grow in use at this rapid pace feels quite low. Students shouldn’t let the fear of machine reproduction stifle their creativity or dampen their dreams. It’s also very important to acknowledge the psychological benefits of actually enjoying your job. Doing work that you love is not just more fun or interesting, it’s also more productive. When you enjoy the tasks you are given,

you get energized and create a positive feedback loop that encourages productivity instead of having to fight for it. Flow state is not just a silly internet joke, it is the very real experience of being focused and creative with ideas easily flowing because you’re actually enjoying your work. Expecting productivity from a miserable employee is simply unrealistic. The same idea applies to your college major. It is so much more difficult to motivate yourself to do a task you don’t care about than to do a task you’re actually passionate about. Of course you will find challenges in motivation regardless, but the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that comes with succeeding in something you love feels so much more worthwhile. If you’re planning your life around the singular goal of making enough money to live out a lavish retirement, you’re taking for granted the promise of tomorrow. Not to sound too morbid, but we have such limited time on this planet, why not spend what we do have enjoying ourselves and doing work that makes us feel good? Coming from an organization overflowing with humanities majors, mainly in English and journalism, we

know this choice comes with high risk and rarely a high reward. The Ram acknowledges that it is a privilege to look past finances and take the risk of pursuing something less likely to be lucrative, but at the same time, there is so much uncertainty in every field that it isn’t even necessarily a guarantee that ditching your passion will pay off. Every student is looking at the horrifying state of the job market as they prepare to enter the workforce. You might not even find success in a career favoring financial stability anyway. It simply isn’t worth it to give up what you love. We aren’t all meant to be finance majors, but all power to you if that is your cup of tea. What would humanity look like without artists, writers or historians? Without social workers, teachers or philosophers? We need a balance in order for society to thrive, so the little voice in your head – or many loud voices outside of your head – telling you to suppress your dreams and trade in your passion for a mundane life of potential stability should be taken with a grain of salt. Life is short, and challenges come with every field. Push past the noise and choose what’s going to fulfill you at the end of the day.

OPINION The Ghosts of Fordham

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By LEILA CARSON STAFF WRITER

There is no doubt that Fordham University’s Rose Hill campus is beautiful yearround, but once the autumn chill sets in and the leaves change, a darker and more haunting history rises to the surface. Beyond the picturesque Gothic architecture and the captivating foliage lies a landscape shaped by nearly two centuries of spine-chilling lore. With so many generations of students passing through, the line between historical facts and ghost stories has become increasingly blurred. This dynamic creates an atmosphere where the past never quite feels like the past and where every corridor seems to hide a secret waiting to be unveiled. Long before today’s student body began swapping stories of sudden icy drafts

and footsteps echoing down empty halls, the grounds of Fordham drew in a tortured 19th-century poet. During a tragic period of his life, Edgar Allan Poe moved to what is now the Bronx. He frequently roamed the secluded Rose Hill paths, forging friendships with the Jesuit priests who welcomed him into their library. The stories say that the Jesuits allowed Poe to roam the campus and the library throughout the night, and it was during these late-night strolls that the eerie rhythm of the campus made its way into Poe’s writing. It is said that the rhythmic ringing of the bell inside St. John’s University (now known as Fordham) Church could be heard from across the campus and all the way to Poe’s cottage. Allegedly, hearing the campus bells was what inspired his famous poem, “The Bells.” Although Poe has long since died, his midnight walks

EMILY MCCALL/THE FORDHAM RAM

The Rose Hill campus is notorious for many historical and “haunted” locations.

have carried Fordham’s gothic legacy, leaving behind a feeling that the melancholy spirits from long before us never truly left the campus grounds. Decades after Poe’s latenight walks, Fordham’s gloomy gothic architecture caught the eye of Hollywood directors who were seeking out the ultimate setting for a real-life cinematic terror. In the early 1970s, film crews arrived at Fordham to shoot pivotal scenes for “The Exorcist” inside the haunting, gothic buildings of Keating Hall and Hughes Hall. The interior of the buildings naturally created an eerie atmosphere and backdrop, requiring little editing or imagination for them to appear unsettling. Although the filming was temporary, “The Exorcist” set Fordham’s reputation in pop culture. Even now, the Rose Hill campus still attracts film crews from all across the horror and mystery genres, with “Law and Order” and “The Watcher” season two setting up their film equipment just this school year. Given Fordham’s haunted Hollywood legacy, it is no surprise that the shadowy legends and spooky stories did not stay on the screen. Over the years, students have shared ghost stories, some of which have been tied to their own personal experiences in their classrooms and dorms. These haunting stories started in Collins Auditorium, where actors and crew members claimed to hear pacing footsteps along overhead catwalks long after rehearsals

had wrapped. In the past, some students have also claimed to have seen a shadowy figure sitting along the upper balcony before it would quickly disappear. Right next door in Queen’s Court, Residential Assistants have told stories about being repeatedly called to investigate a locked room where mattresses were being flipped upside down or placed vertically against the walls. These incidents occurred over the summer, when there should have been no students on campus. According to the story, it is said that one of the Jesuit priests eventually stepped in and prayed over the room in hopes that the strange occurrences would end. While it seemed like a fairly harmless prank, the story became more spine-chilling when students went flipping through old university pictures and records to find the priest, only to discover that he had died years before the mattress incident had occurred. In Fordham’s most famous building, Keating Hall, both students and staff have described experiencing sudden and unnatural drops in temperature. In the building’s basement, they have described hearing the heavy wooden doors slam shut, chairs being moved in empty classrooms, and — perhaps the scariest — feeling an invisible hand grab their shoulders. But, according to the tales, the most haunting experiences happen in Finlay Hall.

November 4, 2026

Long before it became a student residence hall, Finlay was home to Fordham’s medical school, which included a morgue and autopsy labs. Students in Finlay have reported waking up in the middle of the night feeling a cold draft by their feet, followed by the horrifying sensation of someone tugging on their toes. Others have claimed they have woken up to find themselves surrounded by figures dressed in lab coats standing at the foot of their bed, vanishing soon after being spotted. Whether you really believe in the supernatural or are simply looking for an entertaining ghost story this autumn, there is no denying that the Rose Hill campus holds a special place in history that audiences can become acquainted with. From Edgar Allan Poe’s late-night walks and haunting poems, to “The Exorcist” or the cold hands in Finlay Hall, these legends unite the student body and bridge the gap between centuries of history and modern student life. As long as the bells at the University Church continue to ring, the shadows that lurk at Rose Hill will always be around, keeping Fordham’s haunting and captivating past alive, especially during the colder seasons.

Leila Carson, FCRH ’30, is a political science major from Waipahu, Hawaii.

College: A Four-Year Lesson in Life By MELISA BUJAJ STAFF WRITER

There is something beautifully chaotic about being thrown onto a few hundred acres of unexplored buildings with hundreds of dissimilar people who are all looking to build the foundation of their adult lives. Whether it is the best four years of your life or the most forgettable, college has an undeniable impact on every student who steps into its world. After years of following a set schedule and being told where to go and what to do, you are now thrown into a world often defined by independence and self-reliance. Of course, some students adjust easier than others, but when up to 75% of college students experience at least moderate stress, it is worth acknowledging that the potential hardships are anything but uncommon. It’s no secret that college can change the way young adults see the world, but why is that the case? For starters, many students are coming from an education that prioritized rightor-wrong and rigid answers that offered comfort in their certainty, especially in writing. College

fundamentally changes the way you think; it intentionally opens up your mind to profound critical thinking and comprehension that seems limitless. University materials are uncomfortable; they are nuanced with multiple layers and require deep analysis, while rarely offering definitive answers. College forces you to live with this academic uncertainty, and over time, encourages students to realize that life itself is not a dichotomy of right or wrong. Fordham University, in particular, as a Jesuit institution, requires students to take philosophy and theology courses, and while these subjects may not align with a student’s eventual major, I believe it is in the humanities that learning to be confused is most encouraged. Students should not be discouraged when they find themselves confused in their classes because these courses are expected to confuse you at first. Something critical to the learning process happens when your mind grapples with answers and struggles to find them. As you speak with your professor, reread your course materials or listen to your classmates, your

brain is hard at work making connections and associations that will help lead to your gradual comprehension. Being college-educated means many things to different people. I would argue that college, when students welcome its intended efforts, teaches young adults how to communicate and, most importantly, how to listen. A university campus is an incredibly diverse place. Across Rose Hill and Lincoln Center, Fordham is home to almost 11,000 students, with undergraduate demographics listing geographical origins from all 50 states and 121 different countries. That is a remarkable number of perspectives and experiences to have in one place. The physical proximity on a college campus provides students with the opportunity to learn about and hear different perspectives right from the comfort of their dorm rooms. That is an incredible opportunity which is difficult to replicate in adulthood. Whether through social interactions or formal class discussions, these exchanges encourage students to listen to and learn from one another. It teaches your mind

to understand that everyone, including yourself, has a unique mind and distinct insights that are worth sharing. Related to the proximity of college, albeit even farther beyond the classrooms, the extracurricular activities, clubs and organizations that universities offer all promote a very similar kind of open-mindedness that unknowingly teaches young adults how to work with others and rely on their own creativity to witness the fruits of their labor. The vast majority of clubs and organizations at Fordham are student-led, and many have large e-boards dedicated to keeping club funding, objectives and events in order. Being part of such organizations throws young adults into real responsibilities with people relying on their performance. Managing schoolwork, social fun and interests through these organizations naturally teaches students time management and balance. Also, because such involvement is voluntary, it allows students to pursue their passions in a controlled environment while still being able to make an impact. It is important for college students to understand that the homesickness, academic stress

and social loneliness they may feel are a completely natural part of the process. While facing those issues, the most important lesson I have learned in college is to start small with everything. A difficult essay is far less intimidating if you tell yourself to write down just one paragraph. Simply planning to get coffee with friends is a small activity that can lead to hours of much-needed laughs and catching up. Somewhere along the way, you will realize that the challenges and crises you are presented with seem much more manageable than before, and that is the unspoken beauty of these four years. Unknowingly, you will have learned a whole new way to break down and make sense of a complex world. There truly will never be another time in your life when you are learning as much as you are now, both inside and outside of the classroom. College teaches us that a true student is a student forever, someone willing to listen and learn all throughout their life. Melisa Bujaj, FCRH ’28, is a political science major from Westchester, New York.

November 4, 2026

By BRYN MORRISON CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Greenwich Village, a change of pace from the rest of Manhattan, has a lot to offer. While it has many tourist attractions, like Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment (at least the outside of it) and the “Friends” apartment (that they unrealistically afforded), it is packed with possibilities and is completely worth the trip. There are multiple ways to get to Greenwich Village from Rose Hill. If you prefer a subway ride, you can take the B or D train near campus directly to Fourth Street by Washington Square Park or the 4 train to Union Square. If you prefer taking the Metro-North, you can book a ticket to Grand Central Station, then take the 4 or 6 train to Union Square and walk to Washington Square Park from there, which is in the heart of the Village. Washington Square Park is known for its lively atmosphere filled with artists and musicians. With the iconic Washington Square Arch and classic brownstone surroundings, it makes the perfect place for photos. This park is the best place to start your adventure in the Greenwich Village.

CULTURE A Guide to Greenwich Village There are plenty of iconic food spots around the Village, but if you’re looking for a small cafe you should check out Caffe Reggio, the site of the first cappuccino in the U.S. Surrounded by history, with Louise May Alcott’s brownstone being directly across the street, it’s the perfect low-key spot, run by a small, close-knit staff. Although it may be busy, especially on weekends, if you catch them at a good time you’ll be able to get a table with little-to-no wait. As previously mentioned, Greenwich Village is certainly full of history, particularly Stonewall. The Stonewall Inn is most famous for the Stonewall riots during the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. After a police raid at the inn in 1969, an uproar of protests from the LGBTQ+ community ensued for days afterwards, where protestors stood up to the constant oversight from the New York Police Department. Now a national monument, you can see the original building and the memorial garden across from it, decked out with pride flags and photos from the events. If you are getting bored of studying in the Walsh

Library or your dorm, or if you just want a change of pace, you can head over to the Jefferson Market Library. Originally a courthouse, it was converted into a New York City Public Library branch in 1967. With gorgeous architecture and a quiet atmosphere, it’s a great place to slow down in a bustling area. If you are searching for a good show, look no further. Greenwich Village is the perfect place to search for entertainment. The Comedy Cellar is located in the heart of the Village, hosting comedy shows every night that are certainly guaranteed to give you a much needed good laugh.

If you are more into musicals, Greenwich Village has got you covered. Cherry Lane Theater, is known as being “the birthplace of off-Broadway,” is New York’s oldest off-Broadway theater. With a range of shows available, (and sometimes concerts) it is an iconic mustsee for theater fans visiting the Village. For Taylor Swift enthusiasts, I suggest popping by Cornelia Street, home to her former New York City penthouse and the street that her iconic song “Cornelia Street” is named after. Finally, there are many shops full of trinkets and gifts that you must explore. Art and fashion are

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abundant in this area, with a wide variety of styles for anyone. And if you’re a fan of window shopping, the housing is beautiful and should not be ignored. If you are looking for a calmer (and cheaper) outing, taking a stroll and looking at decorations during the holidays is definitely not a wasted trip. Although these are some of the most notable places in this neighborhood, Greenwich Village is an extensive part of the city, with the entire West Village and the Meatpacking District being sub-neighborhoods within it. Thus, there are endless opportunities for exploring. Happy travels!

COURTSEY OF FORBES

Greenwich Village is the perfect place to broaden your curiosity!

Life is Good When You ‘Walk in the Woods’ By EMMA KELNER EXEC. COPY EDITOR

Before August 2023, I would not have described myself as someone into “fitness” or, God forbid, the “outdoors.” I was quite content playing on the PlayStation and eating M&Ms, thank you very much. But Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail” shifted my worldview, even if I didn’t realize it at the time. “A Walk in the Woods” is a book about — you guessed it — two men walking through the woods. It follows Bryson and his pal Stephen Katz as they try to thru-hike (or hike in its entirety) the Appalachian Trail. You may think that these two men have some sort of athletic background. Or perhaps that they are best friends who love spending extended periods of time together. But if you thought either of these things, you’d be wrong. They’re overweight, middle-aged men who irritate each other to no end. As they are hiking the Appalachian Trail, they face bears, blizzards, mice-infested shelters and strangers, some of whom are kind and helpful, and others who are, let’s say, incessantly irritating — like Mary Ellen, who labels each of their actions a “big mistake.” Despite these trials, Bryson and Katz don’t give

up. Until they do. Naturally, these factors combine to create a hilarious, truly laugh-out-loud book. If you have any doubts, ask my roommate: She has heard me laughing at Bryson books on more than one occasion. But scattered throughout Bryson’s droll remarks is commentary on the world we live in. Throughout the book, Bryson returns to the idea that all the hiking you do on the trail, despite the effort it takes, is essentially pointless. Yesterday you were hiking, today you are hiking and tomorrow you will be hiking, but you aren’t really going anywhere. He writes, “[H]owever far or long you plod, you are always in the same place: in the woods.” This gives you a unique perspective on life: “There is no point in hurrying because you’re not actually going anywhere.” That is an idea we don’t focus on enough anymore. In today’s world, all we do is rush from one point to the next. We look for more things to post on Instagram, more ways to fill our time, more ways to “optimize” our lives. But sometimes we need to focus less on where we’re going and more on the fact that we’re going. I hate to turn to a cliché, but maybe life is more about the journey than the destination. Speaking of journeys, I began running last fall, and I believe “A Walk in the Woods”

was one of the first stepping stones toward my new pastime. Bryson’s descriptions of the mindlessness of hiking fascinated me, and I wanted to experience it for myself. Just as with hiking, there is nothing else to do while running other than run. I have no choice but to notice the trees — which are beautiful this time of year — the lakes, the squirrels and the dogs, ranging from the cute ones to the large, unleashed, terrifying ones. And when I’m not noticing my surroundings, I notice myself. I’ve done my best thinking while running. Bryson also got me thinking

about environmentalism. Over the course of the book, he writes about climate change, the U.S. Forest Service’s knack for inefficiently logging trees and the National Park Service’s history of poor wildlife management. He didn’t introduce me to these ideas, but he helped cement them in my mind. Bryson sparked my interest in both the environment and environmental history, leading me to where I am today: an economics and history double-major at Fordham University who reads Dr. Douglas Brinkley’s environmental trilogy for fun.

Since reading “A Walk in the Woods,” I’ve read six other Bryson books, bringing my grand total to seven. I have an eighth sitting on my desk, waiting to be read — I’ll start it once I finish this piece! Bill Bryson introduced me to humor writing, a genre I now read voraciously. He got me thinking about the outdoors, about exercise, about the environment. He changed my life. If you’re still unsure about this book, let me leave you with one final thought: If Mary Ellen were here, she would say not picking up this book is a “big mistake.”

COURTSEY OF BACKPACKER MAGAZINE

“A Walk in the Woods” is an insightful tale of two men hiking the Appalachian Trail.

CULTURE

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November 4, 2026

Who’s That Kid | Aldren Alfonso, FCRH ’30

Fordham’s Filipino Representative By HANNAH MICHALOWSKI EXEC. COPY EDITOR

Going to school in New York City offers countless cultural experiences, from going to art exhibits to enjoying food from around the world. This helps students connect with a diverse community of people and traditions. Through Fordham University’s Philippine American Club (FUPAC), Aldren Alfonso, FCRH ’30, has found a unique way to engage with his Filipino culture. Alfonso is a first-year student commuting from Greenwich, Connecticut, who was inspired to join FUPAC after hearing about it through an alumnus. At the start of the semester, he officially joined the club and connected with other Filipino Americans. At FUPAC, he learned about the Mr. Philippines pageant, which brings representatives from Filipino Intercollegiate Networking Dialogue District Three (D3), a network of colleges and universities in the New York City and New Jersey area, together to celebrate Filipino culture and talent. Every fall semester, FUPAC chooses one member to represent their club in the competition, and this year, Alfonso was elected to be that representative and will be

competing against the other representatives in hopes of being crowned Mr. Philippines. “Originally, I just thought it would be something fun. I didn’t know what I was really getting myself into,” said Alfonso, reflecting on why he was interested in running for Mr. Philippines. The pageant has three parts: Barong walk (a runway and fashion presentation featuring the national formal wear of the Philippines), cultural and talent. Alfonso is tasked with choreographing each section and relating it to his personal relationship with Filipino culture. In the Barong walk, the representatives make their grand entrance for the judges, typically performing a short dance. The cultural section calls for each representative to engage with some aspect of Filipino culture, and the talent section involves the representative showing off a skill that they have, whether that be singing, dancing or even archery. Alfonso is keeping the details of each section under wraps until competition day. “It’s kind of, I guess, sentimental, in a way. That’s all I can really share,” he said. Each year, Mr. Philippines has a theme. This year’s is “Paraluman,” which is

Tagalog for “guiding light” or “compass.” The representatives are encouraged to “think about what [their] guiding light is and how [they] can act as a guide for others toward [their] Filipino culture on [their] path to selfbecoming,” according to Liga Filipina, Columbia University’s Filipinx Cultural Club. They are also encouraged to “search for luminaries in every sense of the word,” as stated by Liga Filipina, listing family as a core part of this. “We’re all really close,” said Alfonso. “We have these gatherings every once in a while. We sing a lot. We dance. We talk a lot. We just all spend time around each other.” 50 of these family members are coming to watch Alfonso compete and share his Filipino culture, embodying the importance of family as a “guiding light.” Alfonso has an entourage of four other FUPAC members who will be on stage with him at the competition. “We have these practices every week,” he said. “We spend time with each other. We get food. It’s just a way of building connections.” Mr. Philippines is more than just a pageant for Alfonso. He has a strong focus on the relationships he wishes to make throughout the pageant’s process, turning away from

the competition and towards the network that comes with expressing his culture with other Filipinos. “I could find a new sort of community, like

people around New York and New Jersey,” he said. “It was a great opportunity to get closer to people that are also Filipino and connect to them.”

ALDREN ALFONSO FOR THE FORDHAM RAM

Alfonso is diving into his Filipino heritage by entering a Filipino pageant.

Tate McRae is Redefining the ‘Housewife’ By HANNA DIETTE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Tate McRae’s newest hit single, “Housewife,” explores the intersection of romantic commitment and personal ambition. McRae describes the song as being about a woman who can’t be contained, capturing the essence of both financial independence and confidence. The song encapsulates the seductive and unapologetic nature of a woman radiating confidence and female agency. It reflects McRae’s own ambition for wealth and career success while challenging the conventional image of a traditional American housewife. The song serves as the lead track for McRae’s upcoming fourth studio album and marks her first new musical release since her hit album “So Close To What” and its deluxe edition, released in 2025. Following the commercial success of her previous project, McRae enters a new musical era that continues to build on her established pop identity while introducing a more self-aware commentary on life and fame coexisting. The 23-year-old Canadian singer-songwriter has continued to establish herself as one of contemporary pop music’s most recognizable figures. Recently, McRae drew attention for her performance at Lollapalooza,

where she concluded her set by emerging from a pool covered in liquid gold paint. The striking finale alluded to the extravagant visual identity that has become increasingly associated with her performances and stage presence. The song’s music video further develops this world of luxury and independence through cinematic presentation. In a recent appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” McRae revealed that the music video and album art were both filmed in the south of France. The video switches between scenes of McRae on a sprawling estate in the south of France and aboard a yacht in the Mediterranean, establishing an atmosphere of extravagance and wealth. Throughout the video, she dances and moves through these luxurious settings with an unmistakable sense of control. McRae situated herself within the traditional domestic identity of a housewife, yet the world she inhabits is entirely her own. And of course, in classic McRae fashion, she includes dance in her music video. As a dancer myself, I grew up watching McRae on “So You Think You Can Dance,” as she grew to become a popular figure within the dance world. With her technical background in classical ballet, it’s hardly surprising that movement is

such a defining feature of her artistic identity. Her stage presence and command of movement distinguish her from many contemporary pop performers in my opinion, making her music videos and live performances especially compelling and exciting. In “Housewife,” the choreography contributes to the larger image of a woman who lives life freely, and I think we can feel this through the video’s visuals and dancing. Sonically, “Housewife” may offer a glimpse into a different direction for McRae. Despite the song sharing similarities to much of her work that retains elements of early2000s pop, its place within the upcoming album raises questions about what listeners can expect next. In an interview with iHeartRadio, one of McRae’s longtime collaborators and producers Ryan Tedder discussed the creation of the song and revealed that it originated during an early recording session for her next project. Tedder shared that “Housewife” would be one of the only songs on the album that plays into the elements of early 2000s pop, saying “I’m a big believer in that once you start a trend, you also should be the one that ends it.” Whether this album achieves this is a question that can’t be answered yet, but I’m interested to see if McRae does

indeed shift away from 2000s pop. The song also addresses the less glamorous realities of the music industry. McRae sings “this industry will try to kill you/ but not before they try to bill you,” suggesting that the industry can be as exploitative as it is rewarding. McRae acknowledges that professional success often comes with its own costs. At the center of the song is McRae’s recurring declaration of “I just wanna make a lot of money / be my own housewife.” The chorus and song itself are fun and catchy, giving listeners a taste of McRae’s feelings about female independence and wealth. Even the song’s album cover evokes this, as McRae pushes a baby stroller full of money, daringly looking at the camera in a red bathing

suit. Her lyrics suggest that she can desire a relationship without needing one to define her or provide for her. Ultimately, “Housewife” is as much a statement about independence as it is about wealth and personal ambition. McRae cheekily plays into the expectations attached to being a housewife, curating a song that I haven’t been able to get out of my head since its release. Even though the song uses much of pop music’s familiar language and sound, the song remains catchy and deserves to climb the charts. Pop music is meant to be fun and playful sometimes, and I think McRae achieved this. “Housewife” offers an intriguing introduction to McRae’s next chapter, in which she clearly has no intention of being confined as a housewife.

COURTESY OF ROLLING STONE

Tate McRae’s single, “Housewife,” instantly sparked new social media trends.

CULTURE

November 4, 2026

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Does the Bass Really Persuade? By LEIA DEMARCO LABARBIERA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“Bass Persuades” is the first single off of Miley Cyrus’ 10th studio album of the same name, and also marks her first music release under her new stage mononym, MILEY. In recent years, MILEY has departed from her notorious 2010s wild child persona, especially with

the release of songs such as “Used to Be Young” in 2023 and “Younger You” earlier this year, displaying a more mature self-reflection. In this way, it seems that her newest releases seek to bridge the dissonance in her catalog and provide a more well-rounded interpretation of herself not simply as an artist, but as a person as well. If this is the case, then “Bass Persuades” frames Cyrus as

someone who has outgrown her past self almost completely (except for her enduring affinity for dancing), now positioning herself as a contemplative adult figure who doesn’t understand “the kids” of this generation. Despite her own adolescence being infamously rebellious, she heavily critiques how others choose to spend this period, characterizing their “world” as disconnected and influenced

COURTESY OF ROLLING STONE

MILEY’S new music journey acts as an homage to older music styles.

solely by the “telephone screen.” While she sympathizes with them and acknowledges that this new inclination among the younger generation may result from a desire to make the all-consuming “chaos” of life “disappear,” she offers an alternative method to “forgetting the … world.” You’ve probably guessed it by now, but the solution is … dancing (to this song)! So, without further adieu, “let’s go!” Bouncing synth starts off the song, driving it forward. This rhythm makes it almost impossible not to at least tap your foot while listening, so the bass truly does persuade. While MILEY unfortunately employs talk-singing throughout the entirety of the song (which, in my opinion, is the most awkward vocal technique in existence), at least her signature attitude makes it less insufferable than Taylor Swift’s throughout “The Life of a Showgirl.” The beat drop finally comes toward the middle of the first verse and, I will admit, is pretty cool, as it is triggered by a sound effect of a horse neighing (which just seems so quintessentially MILEY, as it’s both reminiscent of her roots in country music and relevant to the song’s lyrics). The overall production is similar to her 2024 cover of Talking Head’s “Psycho Killer,”

imbued with ominous vocals and an eerily dark tone. After the first chorus, the backing track crescendos into an interpretation of an 80s videogame soundbite, which seems to develop the nostalgic theme of technological intervention within human connectedness (highlighting the intentionality of references to “MTV” and going “analog” throughout the song). While the chorus is definitely catchy, it is only in its third reiteration that it starts to give me actual chills, complete with a haunting overlay of infectious backing vocals incessantly asking the question we are all wondering: “Don’t you want to dance?” And I think I have to answer it in the affirmative. Overall, the song is surprisingly relevant — even if it does kind of feel like MILEY’s berating you for three minutes to touch grass — and its melodic structure, although slightly repetitive, allows the bass to truly persuade you into feeling the music. While I like “REDLIGHTS,” the only other song I’ve listened to off of the album, “Bass Persuades” is a solid addition to her catalog, positioning her as an endearingly self-assured artist who isn’t afraid to acknowledge the simultaneous joy and disappointment felt throughout one’s life.

The Evolution of Scary Movies By GRACE MOURE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

For over 100 years, horror has been spotlighted as one of the most popular movie genres, with the intent to ignite fear in viewers and give them a sense of uneasiness. The development of cinema has been built with the contributions of these films, and it’s no wonder why so many people are obsessed with them. While many classics have been produced in the past such as “Psycho,” “Alien” and “Child’s Play,” they’re extremely different from what today’s generation would define as horror. There’s been a major shift in what horror films used to be like versus how they are framed in today’s era. I recently watched Alfred Hitchcock’s most renowned thriller film, “Psycho,” in which secretary Marion Crane steals thousands of dollars from her employer to start a new life, but hides in a hotel whose innkeeper is Norman Bates. Bates is the villain of the story and is one of the most famous murderers seen on the big screen. The main thing I noticed while watching was the music and the film score. When characters in the film are trying to uncover who killed Crane and when Bates makes his final blows, the music is very instrumental and sounds rushed. String

instruments, such as violins, were primarily used in old movies such as this to create the effect of suspension. Since “Psycho” was released, there has been a drastic change in the overall sound production of movies, particularly horror films. “Psycho” can be contrasted with one of the most famous breakout films of this year, “Obsession,” as a prime example of this shift. “Obsession” follows the main protagonist Bear, who is in love with his best friend Nikki. Bear buys a One Wish Willow, a willow branch that must be broken in half for one’s wish to come true, and wishes for Nikki to “love him more than anyone in the world.” They fall in love, but Nikki becomes possessed by an alternate persona and her affection becomes an obsessive, violent fixation. In a scene where she commits murder, the music is more electronic, building loud and deep sounds. Personally, I find this kind of music to be far scarier than that of the past, since it enables a state of greater psychological shock and aims to cause anxiety amongst viewers. Another aspect that changes the game in the horror movie genre are special effects. In the past, computers were far slower and could not capture computer-generated imagery (CGI). Instead, they had to use puppets and animatronics

to create the famous monsters we know today like the “Alien” monster, Xenomorph, and the doll in “Child’s Play,” Chucky. Mechanical special effects aren’t the only kinds used in film — one other type is special effects (SFX) makeup. When watching a movie made in the 1980s, it’s obvious that the blood or wounds that characters have are fake. However, when watching a movie made in the 2010s or 2020s, the effects used look far more realistic and lifelike. This is largely because in the 80s, some synthetic materials were unsafe to put on skin and tools that were used were not as advanced. Today, SFX makeup merges ultra-realistic sculpting and prosthetics that create authentic and three dimensional transformations. Special effects are part of what makes scary movies so great, but there’s something else that shapes its culture. Audiences and fans drive horror movies to their highest potential. While in the past audience members were passionate about horror and its impact, there’s a giant difference in today’s younger fanbase. The internet has grown to encase a large number of fandoms, creating connections between people who share a love for horror. With the presence of the internet and the popularity of social media, the releases of horror movies have

turned into cultural and social events. Today, Gen Z fanbases connect to scary movies on a deeper level and can easily communicate with other people who share their favorite films or stories in the world of horror. From events like Comic Con to movie premieres, fans have access to meet some of their favorite horror celebrities and actors. There has also been a rise of horror video games and podcasts, two forms of

entertainment media that have only been accessible in today’s digital world. As present and upcoming generations learn about media and horror movie culture, scary films will continue to evolve and dominate the cinema industry today more than ever. Horror films will touch on topics beyond the psychological, bringing unique and imaginative concepts that have never been seen before.

COURTESY OF PINTEREST

Horror movies have evolved from traditional slashers to psychological thrillers.

CULTURE A Bit of Old New York: Russ and Daughters and Cafe

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By BLAISE VAYDA CONTRIBUTING WRITER

One of my absolute favorite places to eat at during the winter months is a Jewish deli. When it’s cold out, all I crave is warmth and comfort. And if you’ve ever set foot in Russ and Daughters, you’ll notice the almost indescribable feeling of comfort and historical significance that consumes your senses. It is a four-generation, family-run New York City institution, founded by Joel

November 4, 2026

Russ, a Polish Jew who immigrated in 1914. Russ and Daughters is a place that instantly transports you back to an older time, when New York’s Bowery and Lower East Side were still an amalgamation of immigrants from all over the world trying to establish a little slice of home in the big city. The bagel shop’s atmosphere is quintessential New York: fastpaced, no-nonsense and yet undeniably charming. The bagel selection includes all the classics: poppy seed,

BLAISE VAYDA FOR THE FORDHAM RAM

A delicious bagel topped with tomatoes, onions, capers and salmon.

onion, plain and, of course, my favorite, the classic everything. All the bagels are delicious and perfectly chewy, however, the star of the show has to be the toppings. There is a wide assortment of spreads and, most importantly, smoked fish. Now, if you don’t like seafood, you’ll still love the tasty cream cheese flavors, but if you’re at all adventurous, I highly recommend getting a bagel with their housemade smoked and cured fish. My favorite would have to be the Scottish smoked salmon, which has the ideal balance of sweet and slightly smoky, with a light, briny finish and a smooth texture. However, a worthy contender to the salmon is the peppered mackerel. If you like a slightly stronger flavor and don’t mind a richer fish, it has a slightly fattier profile and a stronger seafood flavor that the pepper balances out beautifully. I highly recommend you try it with the goat cream cheese if you like a nutty flavor. My goto order, and a good starting place, is the classic everything bagel and Lox, but get it with the scallion or horseradish and dill cream cheese, topped with tomato, capers and onions. Your breath won’t be thanking you, but the taste is

definitely worth it. The original Russ and Daughters only sells bagels, its accoutrements and some traditional Eastern European and Jewish baked goods (their babka is delicious). The shop has no seating and is very small, but if you want a more relaxed, sit-down environment, go to the Russ and Daughters Cafe across the street. It’s open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday. At the cafe, you can grab a seat and take your time eating and chatting with friends. I love the cafe. It has that same charming feeling without the chaos of the fastpaced deli environment. The decor is designed to have an upscale diner feel, with booth tables and big paneled windows in the front. Though modern, it still maintains that grounded, traditional, family-run feel, with decor and vintage photographs flooding the walls. This location of Russ and Daughters also has an extended menu, offering classic Jewish deli foods such as potato latkes, blintzes and traditional soups such as borscht and matzah ball soup. The chicken matzah

ball soup is particularly good, with a flavorful golden broth and generous amounts of tender pieces of chicken. The matzah ball has a firm but soft texture and a nice mild flavor, which is perfect for soaking up the rich chicken broth. To me, there is nothing more comforting than a bowl of simple chicken soup, and this one hits the spot every time. However, the original Russ and Daughters bagel shop has my heart. I like going to the shop, not just because they have delicious bagels, but also because Russ and Daughters represents a part of New York that has been somewhat lost in modern-day city life. It was here before the Bowery became a gentrified neighborhood where shops feel like cookie-cutters, trying to mold themselves to the latest trends. It is not a highly curated or fancy space that will make your jaw drop, but it feels real. Russ and Daughters is a place that has been serving the area for over 100 years and helps me remember that the city isn’t all about luxurious skyscrapers or sophisticated facades, but rather, the diverse communities it creates and supports — which can result in a scrumptious bagel.

The Witch Hunt Within: A Review of ‘The Crucible’ By ANJEZA GASHI CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

“The Crucible” is a play set in Salem, Massachusetts, during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Although many parts are dramatized by Arthur Miller, it is based on a true story. The play is set in a very strict Puritan society where people live religious lifestyles, and where your reputation can affect your societal status. The story begins with rumors circulating in the town about witchcraft, and as a result, you see how quickly fear can make a community turn on itself. One of my favorite aspects of the play is how Miller illustrates the accusations and hysteria. Many characters, including Abigail Williams, John Proctor, Reverend Parris and Elizabeth Proctor, get caught up in the spiral of suspicion. A lot of the accusations are believed to be true despite lacking evidence. As fear begins to spread throughout Salem, it becomes difficult to distinguish between truth and lies. Some characters try to tell the truth, while others twist facts to help themselves. This dynamic creates an intense atmosphere and makes the reader wonder who they can trust. One of the strongest messages of the play is that anybody can be targeted. Another reason why I

enjoyed the play was the intense build-up that Miller creates throughout all four acts. In Act One, there is a lot of mystery surrounding what the girls are doing and who is making accusations. In Act Two, the tension increases as suspicion spreads into people’s homes, putting innocent families such as the Proctors at risk. In Act Three, there are intense courtroom scenes which put characters in tough situations. Finally, in Act Four, the play ends emotionally as characters deal with the consequences of their actions. Each act introduces new conflicts and tough dilemmas, meaning the tension keeps increasing throughout. John Proctor is a complex character who deals with his guilt, integrity and tough moral decisions. Elizabeth Proctor is honest, whilst Abigail Williams is manipulative, causing conflict throughout the story. The characters feel realistic, as they have flaws and often face impossible decisions. Whilst reading, I often wondered what I would do in these situations. This contemplation helps to emphasize the main themes of the play, such as truth, justice and personal responsibility. The main thing that stood out to me was how relevant the themes are. Even though the play is set in the 17th century, the message can easily be

linked to our society today. We are still influenced by fear, rumors, misinformation, opinions and the desire to protect our reputation. “The Crucible” was written by Miller to respond to McCarthyism and the Red Scare during the 1950s. Many Americans were accused of being communists with little evidence. Using the Salem Witch Trials as an allegory, Miller shows the dangers of mass hysteria

and false accusations. This theme is extremely relevant today as information and misinformation can spread quickly. I also liked how Miller used a historical event to create a powerful message about human behavior. Whilst the Salem Witch Trials are the background to the play, it looks into bigger themes such as fear, justice, integrity and the consequences of going along with what everyone else

is doing. These themes give the story a lasting relevance. Overall, I would highly recommend “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller. I loved how it incorporated history, drama and a powerful message about society. Although it is a dramatized version of the Salem Witch Trials, it is still meaningful. With memorable characters, an intense plot and timeless themes, this is one of the best and most impactful books I have ever read.

EMILY MCCALL/THE FORDHAM RAM

“The Crucible” by Arthur Miller was first released in 1953, yet its legacy lives on even today.

November 4, 2026

CULTURE A Perfect Day on the Upper East Side

By ANJEZA GASHI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Upper East Side has a reputation for luxury apartment buildings, designer stores and old-money energy, but it’s also one of the prettiest neighborhoods in the city. Though SoHo and the West Village get more play on social

media, the Upper East Side is calmer and packed with cute cafes, hidden bookshops, some of the best museums around and small local shops. As a book lover who’s always hunting for unique spots, this is one of my favourite parts of Manhattan. It creates an environment that is both cultured and welcoming.

Getting there from Fordham University is easy. Take the Ram Van from Rose Hill down to Lincoln Center, then hop on the Q train heading uptown. Before long you’re in one of the prettiest areas of Manhattan, with tree-lined roads, brownstone buildings and great cultural spots. Breakfast at Bocado kicks

EMILY MCCALL/THE FORDHAM RAM

The Upper East Side, known for its consistent features in film and television, is home to many museums and shops.

off the perfect day. It’s a cozy cafe on Lexington Avenue, and it feels more like a neighborhood gathering spot than a trendy Manhattan destination. Ease into the day in that relaxed atmosphere, whether you grab coffee and a pastry or sit down for a longer brunch. The menu has plenty of breakfast favorites, such as avocado toast, egg dishes and fresh pastries — there’s something for every craving. Bocado is a great first stop before you begin exploring the area. Then, I suggest wandering through this quiet pocket of the Upper East Side. Argosy Book Store ranks among the area’s best-kept secrets; it’s the oldest independent book shop in New York City. Rare books fill the shelves, along with antique maps and first editions. You genuinely feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Book lovers, writers and history fans alike all lose track of time here. Most importantly, make sure to head to Museum Mile. Most people beeline for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but this stretch holds some of the city’s best underrated galleries. The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum is one of my favorites on the Upper East Side. It centers

The Fordham Ram Crossword - College Majors Edition 1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11

Across 2. Bro is majoring in the past. 4. Bro is majoring in douchebag- I mean money. 8. Bro is majoring in consumerism. 10. Bro is majoring in the political and economic state of the world. 11. Bro is majoring in self-diagnosing.

Down 1. Bro is majoring in talking to people. 3. Bro is majoring in la la la. 5. Bro is majoring in asking questions. 6. Bro is majoring in clothing. 7. Bro is majoring in his native language. 9. Bro is majoring in life (the study of).

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on design, architecture and innovation, and the exhibits span historical objects to modern inventions, so no two visits feel the same. The building alone is worth the trip, and the garden is a lovely place to sit for a while. Head to the east side of Central Park and walk around. The loop by the reservoir and Conservatory Water tends to be way quieter than the rest of the park. It’s a good place to people-watch, read or just take in the view. You get a nice contrast here between the calm greenery and the busy roads. By the time evening comes, Lexington Candy Shop is worth a stop. It’s been open since 1925, serving classic milkshakes, sundaes and egg creams. It’s a great reminder of why New York’s old local shops deserve protecting. In a city that never stops changing, it’s a taste of old New York. Curiosity gets rewarded on the Upper East Side. It is not the trendiest part of NYC, and that’s exactly why I’d point anyone there. It’s full of independent bookshops, old cafes, great museums and local shops that have been around forever. You get something real, and it feels like New York. It is the perfect spot to wander and stumble upon something new.

SPORTS

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November 4, 2026

Formula 1: Magical Memories in Mexico By CAROLINE KORBA STAFF WRITER

On Sunday, Nov. 1, the Formula 1 (F1) world was shaken forever. Kimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes golden boy from Bologna, Italy, entered the weekend with the opportunity to clinch the World Drivers’ Championship (WDC) title at the Mexican Grand Prix (GP). When the grid arrived at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez for the 19th round of the season, all eyes were on the Italian phenom. But it was not just Antonelli who brought the action to Mexico City. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit in Mexico is rich in history. Five WDC fights have been decided in Mexico since its first GP in 1963, with current Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton taking the title there twice. It is an equally special track for Mexico’s own Sergio Pérez of Cadillac, who had his 300th GP start this past weekend, and for Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, who won five Mexican GPs heading into 2026. Sitting over 2,000 kilometers above sea level, the thin air in Mexico City challenges both drivers and vehicles, uniquely impacting downforce, cooling and physical exertion levels. The endurance demanded for a total race distance of 305.354 kilometers across 71 laps is insane, with 17 turns every 4.304-kilometer lap — but champions are born out of challenges. After missing media day in Mexico due to illness, Antonelli entered Mexico tense, tired and two points away from securing the WDC title. If he wanted to take home the biggest trophy in F1 then and there, he had to place anywhere from P1 to P9 — no matter the results of his closest competitors, Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell.

COURTESY OF FORMULA 1

Max Verstappen placed first in the Mexican Grand Prix.

The difficult driving kicked off with Free Practice (FP) sessions on Oct. 30 and 31. Nearly every team fielded a rookie driver during FP1 for testing, which explains the 10 new faces in the paddock. Despite mechanical issues and a yellow flag, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc put up a speedy time, followed by Antonelli and Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti. FP2 had both Haas cars of Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon struggling, but the larger incident of that session occurred when Red Bull’s Verstappen and Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson made entirely avoidable contact and damaged their vehicles. The two blamed one another and ultimately received identical one-place grid penalties for the GP. After Hamilton parked it up and a Virtual Safety Car (VSC) deployment, FP2 concluded with Leclerc, McLaren’s Lando Norris and Russell on top. FP3 — after a sudden, and, at the time of writing, still-unexplained replacement of Ocon by reserve driver Ryō Hirakawa — yielded a top three of Norris, Antonelli and Leclerc. Then came Qualifying in Mexico. With his Aston Martin experiencing an engine issue, the good performance of Fernando Alonso was foiled by a breakdown and Q1 exit that caused a full red-flag stop. In a shocking Q2 elimination, Oscar Piastri of “Big Four” team McLaren was out. Q3 saw tight margins separating the speediest times — namely from the Mercedes and

Ferrari drivers — but in the end, Lewis Hamilton emerged P1. This feat made him the oldest polesitter since Mario Andretti in 1982, marked his first Ferrari pole ever and extended his lifetime P1 start record from 104 to 105. Completing the top starters were Russell, Leclerc and Antonelli; further back, Lawson and Cadillac’s Valtteri Bottas incurred violations that relegated them to P22 and P21, respectively. The grid was officially ready to race. And just like that, it was lights out and away they went at the Mexican GP. Russell lacked full deployment and had a slow beginning, whereas Hamilton got a good start to maintain his lead — that is, until his teammate had something to say about it. The Ferraris went sideby-side and off the track, with Leclerc assuming an aggressive racing line and Hamilton taking evasive action. Leclerc cut the track and wrongfully obtained P1, a maneuver which garnered him a “lenient” and controversial five-second penalty, yet no order to give back track position. Meanwhile, Verstappen took the inside line and came out in front of Hamilton, separating the Ferraris. At turn six of that chaotic Lap 1, Russell was dealt a 10-second penalty for causing a collision with Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar, though they both could have left more space. This would be served at his first pit stop, which would come on lap 34. Right after Alonso pulled out on Lap 6, teammate Lance

Rayane Tchemmoun Freshman Soccer

Freshman midfielder Rayane Tchemmoun played a pivotal role in Fordham’s 5-1 victory over Saint Joseph’s University on Saturday. Tchemmoun totaled two goals on the evening, scoring the first goal of the game in minute eight before nailing his second in minute 51.

Senior Hayley Clark was a bright spot in Fordham’s 186-105 loss to Columbia University on Saturday. Clark finished first in the 200 butterfly with a time of 2:06 and first in the 500 freestyle with a time of 5:06.

Hayley Clark Senior Swim & Dive

Verstappen and Hamilton were amazing on the restart, despite coming into contact. Antonelli surged past Leclerc to seize P3 in a late braking move proclaimed “beautiful” by commentators. On Lap 49, a collision between Bearman and Nico Hulkenberg of Audi left the latter driver with a 10-second penalty and the former, sadly, out of the GP. Though citing concerns over engine braking on Lap 56, Verstappen was flying in P1. In the last incident of the race, on Lap 59, Arvid Lindblad of Racing Bulls smashed into the barrier whilst battling Piastri for P7, yielding a SC that lasted until Lap 62 and a 10-second penalty issued post-race for the McLaren at fault. And despite Hamilton’s and Norris’ efforts to catch Verstappen and Leclerc respectively, the podium places were set. And that is where the magic came into play in Mexico City this past weekend. Lawson went from the pit lane to the points, ending up P7. Rookie Hirakawa earned points in his very first F1 race, landing P10 after readjustments. Verstappen achieved his sixth Mexican GP victory, joking it should be renamed “Maxico.” After a frustrating race, Hamilton delivered his eighth Ferrari podium in P2. Most importantly, and most impressively: Kimi Antonelli. His P3 finish concluded the fight for points, making him the first Italian WDC since 1953 and the youngest one ever. With the radio-borne rejoices of Antonelli’s three closest influences — his father, race engineer and Mercedes team principal — it was official: “Get in there, Kimi! Champion of the world!” The wholesome, teary celebrations to come were moments Antonelli will remember for the rest of his life. But as for 2026? The season is not over just yet …

Varsity Calendar

Athletes of the Week Each week, The Fordham Ram’s Sports section honors two athletes for their on-field performances as “Athletes of the Week.”

Stroll came to a stop, necessitating a VSC that briefly neutralized the race. Unfortunately, there was no significant benefit to others on the grid; most drivers had already passed the pit lane. The top six were close, but the order was shaken up once Leclerc (who had a penalty to serve) and Verstappen pitted on Lap 28 and the latter came out ahead. Hamilton pitted one lap later for mediums, coming out after Verstappen as P6. By Lap 38, the drivers came through: Antonelli, Norris, Verstappen, Leclerc, Hamilton, then Russell. At this point, those up front were rolling the dice, hoping for a lucky Safety Car (SC) to aid strategy concerns and tire complaints; some pitted too early and missed it. Having held off the longest on his initial soft tires, Antonelli pitted on Lap 44. The WDC leader came out behind Hamilton just as the suspension of Bottas’ Cadillac spontaneously snapped and sent him flying into the barrier in a whirlwind of smoke. The field became bunched up (Verstappen-Leclerc-AntonelliHamilton-Norris) under a SC, but the situation escalated further when a red flag was issued to extract the crashed vehicle and repair the barrier. As everyone exited their cars in the pit lane for a 40-minute-long delay, Hamilton was fuming at Ferrari, stuck on the Lap 1 incident with Leclerc and saying they had “big problems.” His day brightened a bit when the restart order placed him ahead of Antonelli. Once the repairs were completed, the lapped cars unlapped themselves and the formation lap was finished, the track came alive again. Post-race penalties were given to Alpine drivers Franco Colapinto and Pierre Gasly for moving before the signal that denoted the restart. Simultaneously, the experienced

HOME AWAY

Wednesday Thursday Nov. 4 Nov. 5

Friday Nov. 6

Saturday Nov. 7

Monday Nov. 9

Tuesday Nov. 10

BUCKNELL 1 p.m.

Football Men’s Soccer

GEORGE MASON 3 p.m.

Women’s Soccer

RICHMOND

1:30 p.m.

ST. LOUIS 6 p.m.

Volleyball

VCU 6 p.m.

VCU 2 p.m.

Water Polo

BERKLEY

7 p.m.

Men’s Basketball

STONEHILL

Women’s Basketball

ST. THOMAS 5 p.m.

Men’s Tennis

Sunday Nov. 8

STANFORD

11 a.m.

IONA 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m. MONROE 3 p.m.

SPORTS

November 4, 2026

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Varsity Scores & Stats Men’s Basketball Fordham Kansas

65 95

Women’s Basketball Niagara 40 Fordham 70 Water Polo Fordham Princeton

12 6

Volleyball Fordham Loyola Chicago

0 3

Fordham Loyola Chicago

0 3

Rhode Island Fordham

1 3

Men’s Soccer St. Joseph’s Fordham

5 1

Women’s Soccer Fordham Richmond

1 0

Same Old, Same Old: Cashman and Boone Rehired By JACK WARD CONTRIBUTING WRITER

After the New York Yankees were swept out of the postseason by the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League Division Series this October, Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner made the controversial decision to bring back both General Manager Brian Cashman and Manager Aaron Boone for the upcoming 2027 season. The controversy over staying safe and keeping current personnel persists despite the relatively successful 93-win season the Yankees just had (despite their star and back-to-back MVP Aaron Judge being injured for the majority of the season). The controversy isn’t entirely new; it has been 17 years since the most decorated team in MLB history won the World Series. Cashman has been in his position for each of those years and Boone has been in his for 10. Brian Cashman has been the general manager of the Yankees for 28 years. During his tenure, he has been part of multiple championships but even more failures. He is perceived by fans as one of the main causes of the drought of postseason success in the Bronx for years at this point, and new outrage always comes spilling out whenever the team extends or renews his contract. One of these moments happened this October, when Steinbrenner re-signed Cashman for another five years.

COURTESY OF NYTIMES

Yankees Aaron Boone and Brian Cashman conversing in the backstop.

Aaron Boone is set to start his 10th season as the manager of the Bronx Bombers, the longest-tenured Yankee manager to never hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy. While his performance as manager in the 2026 season can be commended, considering the extreme number of significant injuries to his roster, Boone is still seen as one of the sources of fans’ disappointment over the past decade. While he will be returning for the next season, Boone’s contract has not been extended. As things currently are, the contract will end in October of 2027. If the Yankees have the same old year of good regular season play and pathetic playoff performance, there is a high possibility that Boone will not be brought back for his 11th

season as manager. While these two will most likely remain controversial with the particularly picky Yankee fans, it is Steinbrenner who has done the most to hold back the team over the past decade-plus. Unlike his father, legendary owner George Steinbrenner, Hal doesn’t always like shelling out cash for players who could genuinely boost the Yanks’ chances at running away with a championship, or even guaranteeing an American League pennant. Over the years, he passed up free agents like Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, Corey Seager and many talented pitchers who could have been the necessary pieces to have won a championship by now. Steinbrenner will always bear more responsibility for the team’s failure than Cashman and Boone because he

is the one who keeps bringing them back. Cashman and Boone are not blameless when it comes to the strife of fans, though. Cashman was a big part of the Yankees missing out on the free agents mentioned previously, and Boone and his sometimes ill-informed bullpen choices were some of the biggest sources of losses in both the regular season and playoffs. The most famous example is bringing out Nestor Cortes in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 1 of the 2024 World Series when he had not pitched in over a month due to injury. This led to the now-infamous walk-off grand slam by Freddie Freeman, giving the Los Angeles Dodgers a 1-0 lead in a series they would eventually win in only five games. Yankees fans are the loudest and proudest in the sport of baseball. They have been spoiled; they have gotten to see 27 championships in the over 100 years of the team’s existence and they expect a lot from their team. Similarly, the team expects a lot from its fans; tickets and concessions at Yankee Stadium remain some of the most expensive in the sport. While fans of other franchises may see it as ridiculous that Yankee fans dare to complain about their lack of success when considering the team’s history and the fact that they haven’t had a losing season in over 30 years, when an organization

makes it clear that they have no interest in taking risks to give their team a better chance to win it all, while taking fans’ money with a smile, it is completely rational when fans start to outrage. Keeping Cashman and Boone is not just playing it safe: It is a decree to the fans that the Yankees organization they give so much to every year does not care for them in return. Steinbrenner would rather put out an OK team with a winning record every year to make sure that the stadium is filled for every game than take any risks for the chance of a championship. This play-it-safe attitude of the higher-ups in the Yankees organization is not just harming fans of the Bombers, but also wasting the career of one of the greatest hitters in Major League history, Aaron Judge. Cashman and Steinbrenner have refused to build and pay for a championship-level roster around Judge for the entirety of his career. Cashman and Boone are not the sole sources of the dismay the Yankees and the fans have faced in the past decade and a half, but them not being replaced is representative of the laissez-faire attitude that the New York Yankees corporation has adopted after being seen as the peak of sports organizational excellence for generations. New York sports fans are always going to be outraged at something, but it is not always unjustified.

SPORTS

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November 4, 2026

Hail to the King: Sovereignty Reigns Supreme By KURT SIPPEL STAFF WRITER

When it comes to the biggest sporting events of the year, a few iconic spectacles immediately come to mind: the Super Bowl, the World Series and, outside of America’s big four leagues, the U.S. Open and the Masters at Augusta. But for the “sport of kings,” the two days of the Breeders’ Cup represent the absolute pinnacle of horse racing. For many fans, horse racing starts and ends with the Triple Crown, the elite series where three-year-old horses compete over five grueling weeks for ultimate glory. There is a reason the Triple Crown has only been achieved 13 times: It remains one of the most difficult feats in all of sports. Less often discussed is the true “Super Bowl of Racing,” the Breeders’ Cup. Held over two days in late October or early November, this championship event rotates among the finest racetracks across the United States, bringing together the world’s most elite horses to compete for the largest purses in the sport. While the full card features thrilling turf and juvenile races, the main event is the Breeders’ Cup Classic, run at 1.25 miles (10 furlongs) on dirt. This year’s Classic marked the first time in 35 years that two Kentucky Derby winners

Sovereignty reigns supreme at the Breeders Cup.

faced off, yet in the morning odds, neither was favored. The morning-line favorite was the globetrotting defending champion, Forever Young from Japan. Having accumulated over $32.3 million in earnings, Forever Young entered the race as one of the richest horses in the history of the sport. Held at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky, the field challenging Forever Young included the previous year’s Derby winner and reigning Eclipse Award winner Sovereignty, along with this year’s Derby winner Golden Tempo. Joining them were 2026 Preakness winner Napoleon Solo and multiple Grade 1 winners, including Knightsbridge The Puma, and T O Password. It was one of the deepest fields assembled in the 43year history of the race. As spectators settled into their

seats and anticipation reached a fever pitch, the starting bell sounded. Knightsbridge took the early lead, setting a blistering pace with an opening quarter-mile in 23.57 seconds. Ridden by jockey Luis Saez, Knightsbridge continued to dictate the tempo, clocking 47.64 seconds for the half-mile and 1:11.43 for three-fourths of a lap. As they rounded the far turn, Sovereignty, with jockey Junior Alvarado in the irons, swung wide to make his move alongside Forever Young under jockey Ryusei Sakai and T O Password ridden by Kazushi Kimura. Knightsbridge held the lead into the stretch, but Alvarado unleashed Sovereignty’s full potential. Pulling clear of the field, Sovereignty won the Classic by 1.75 lengths. It was sweet redemption for trainer Bill Mott, who had been forced to scratch the horse from last year’s race due to a fever.

COURTESY OF LANE REPORT

“You know what? This is a relief because I know how good this horse is,” Mott said after the race. “This was big today because there were some doubters. I think we proved our position; we proved what we needed to prove.” Finishing second was longshot The Puma at 17-1 odds, running a massive race to outshine expectations as the second-longest shot in the field. “We’re so proud of him,” said jockey Javier Castellano. “I just want to make sure he comes back in good shape and regroups. We’re looking forward to his four-year-old campaign because that’s the plan. We got beat, but we’re in really good shape for next year.” Knightsbridge, the pace setter early on, held on for third at 7-2 odds. He turned in a courageous effort to maintain a podium spot despite running out of gas in the final furlong.

“Beautiful trip. He put me in a great spot, traveling nicely,” Saez said. “Coming into the stretch, he gave me a good turn of foot. But the champion of the world came flying. He never gave up.” Meanwhile, the 8-5 posttime favorite Forever Young delivered a disappointing performance in his bid to defend his crown, fading down the stretch to finish fifth. “He has never run this poorly before. Even when races haven’t gone his way, he’s always battled and finished strongly. But there was none of that today,” said trainer Yoshito Yahagi. Golden Tempo was never a factor in this race. The swift early pace proved too much for the closer to overcome, and by the time he launched his move, it was too late to contend for the top spots, as he finished sixth. The Breeders’ Cup Classic victory allowed Sovereignty to conclude his career on the highest possible note. Retiring to Jonabell Farm in Lexington, Kentucky, the newly crowned world champion ends a storied career with an 8-3-1 record across 13 starts and over $10.5 million in earnings. Sovereignty’s Breeders’ Cup Classic trophy may not be his final honor of the season. By prevailing on racing’s biggest stage, he silenced the noise and made a compelling case for a second consecutive Eclipse Award.

Overtime: The GOAT’s Out of the Bag By ETHAN BESS

ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

On Oct. 26, Shawn Corey Carter, A.K.A. Jay-Z, announced that he was going to be the halftime performer for Super Bowl (SB) LXI. This comes off his most recent concert at SoFi Stadium, a part of his JAŸ-Z30 Tour celebrating 30 years of him being in the hip-hop world. Viewing this as a win for hiphop would be an understatement, considering the last five Super Bowl performers have come from hip-hop/ R&B backgrounds. The Weeknd performed at SB LV, Dr. Dre and Friends at SB LVI, Rihanna performed at SB LVII, Usher performed at SB LVIII, Kendrick Lamar performed at SB LIX and Bad Bunny performed at SB LX. Bad Bunny is an exception because he comes from the genre of reggaetón and Latin hip-hop, but nonetheless he could fall under the hip-hop category. However, it was suspected that Jay-Z was going to be performing at the Super Bowl for a while. There was a report by HotNewHipHop that Jay-Z already has his set listed out, but that is unconfirmed. Jay-Z is recognized as one of

Jay-Z was named the 2027 Super Bowl LXI halftime performer.

the greatest rappers of all time. Regardless of how you line it up, he will almost always get mentioned alongside rappers like Nas, Biggie Smalls, Tupac Shakur, Eminem, Rakim and Lil Wayne. With all of his success from selling over 140 million records globally, he has also developed strong business acumen. This includes direct or indirect ownership in companies like Roc Nation, Roc-AFella Records and TIDAL. Most of Jay-Z’s wealth, however, comes from liquor companies like D’Ussé. He is also in control

of the NFL’s entertainment department, which means he gets to choose the performers for the Super Bowl every year. Ultimately, for this year’s halftime show, he chose himself. Something that came across as a little shocking to most people was just how late it seemed this announcement was. Usually SB halftime show announcements are posted in early September, just as the NFL season is underway, raising the question: What took so long this time? Apparently, the reason is that

COURTESY OF ROLLING STONE

Jay-Z said he was “waiting for the right moment to announce it.” Some, like myself, have asked, “when is the right time to announce such a thing?” Assuming that he wanted it to be a surprise, maybe he did the right thing by waiting to announce. It could serve as a giant revenue boost for the NFL with Jay-Z taking the stage for the Super Bowl halftime show. Despite the NFL’s already high viewership in the U.S., matching the Premier League, this could effectively drive their viewership and revenue to

heights that they can’t even begin to imagine. We should also be aware that the halftime show keeps breaking viewership records. In 2024 at SB LVIII, Usher drew 129.3 million viewers for his performance. The very next year, Kendrick Lamar topped that with 133.5 million viewers. Bad Bunny didn’t top what Lamar had, but he came close at 128.2 million viewers. Who’s to say that Jay-Z won’t be able to top Lamar’s record? It would require a lot of viewership from Gen X and Millennials. Those two generations grew up on the early works of Jay-Z so they may be the main demographics tuning into the halftime show. Speculation surrounding his choice for the lineup of songs he wants to play is also going around the internet. I can’t personally speak to what the first song that he’s going to play is, but if I had to take a guess, I’d probably say “Otis.” This guess is based on the possibility that he will play his most famous songs first, or at least that’s what a lot of people think. Nevertheless, the Super Bowl LXI halftime show should be great and I am looking forward to it. But that first song that he plays? We’ll just have to wait and see.