The Captain’s Log
@CNUCAPTAINSLOG
VOLUME 56, ISSUE 26 What’s Inside
Beyond April:
CNU’s Initiatives for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
MICHALAH BECK
MICHALAH.BECK.22@CNU.EDU
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and Christopher Newport University (CNU) took initiatives to spread awareness and to combat this issue. The events focused on were Hour2Empower, Take Back the Night and Denim Day.
In an interview with The Captain’s Log, a panel of CNU staff members who help run initiatives discussed how they are working towards building awareness of sexual assault and harassment on campus. Panel members included Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Amy Sirocky-Meck, Assistant Director and Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Keanté Eppes, Associate Dean of Students, Brian Larson, Assistant Director of Stu-
dent Accessibility and Case Management, Ashley Dillon and Assistant Director of Care Team Support and Case Management Mallory King.
The team emphasized the importance of collaboration with each other as well as throughout different departments across campus. “[We are] one united front working for the same purpose,” Mallory King said.
(Story continued in A & E, page 8)
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Pope Francis dies at
Landeskog returns to Avalanche
Gaudreau case update
Lacy passes away
Earth Day CNU A showcasesCapella
CNU Percussion presents “Tribal”
Williams is Exec. producer
Dorm needs for next year
Summer fashion tips Claires Corner
Staying informed The NoVA plauge
Chrisopher Newport University Hall (CNH) in the afternoon, taken by Emily D’Alba
Russian Attacks during Ceasefire
Over Easter weekend, Russia struck Ukraine’s southern Kherson region during a 30-hour ceasefire declared by President Vladimir Putin. On April 21, AP News wrote that three people were killed in the assault that lasted 24 hours. Putin declared his readiness to reciprocate a ceasefire Saturday, April 19, but the Russian attacks continued throughout the holiday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared that Russia violated the ceasefire more than 2,900 times. According to AP News, Zelenskyy said that Russian forces carried out 96 assault operations along the front line. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that Moscow’s forces observed the ceasefire and remained at previously occupied positions.
New Pan-Nordic Army Assembles
Nordic countries are shedding the persona of peaceful efforts as they emerge with a model for Europe’s defense. Four Nordic countries, Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark, have ushered in a new regional security. The fifth Nordic country, Iceland, has no standing army or defense industry. According to Wall Street Journal, the Nordic countries have a unified security policy for the first time since the Kalmar Union. This army is an effort to reverse military drawdowns to counter Russian aggression and uncertain security guarantees from the Trump administration.
Iran and U.S. Continue Nuclear Negotiations
A second round of talks between Iran and the United States regarding nuclear programs took place in Rome on Saturday, April 19, according to Wall Street Journal. Iranian officials described the conversation as “a step forward”, while U.S. officials claimed there will be another meeting in the upcoming weeks. The proposal discussed by the U.S. aims for a permanent agreement that Iran will completely abandon its nuclear weapons for the lifting of all economic sanctions. However, Iran hopes to follow a similar approach adopted by the United Arab Emirates: the country operates nuclear reactors but forgoes enriching uranium and depends on imports.
Images of international affairs
Image design of a ship steering wheel, designed by Gemini 2.0 Flash AI.
Police officers assist woman from a building struck by a Russian airstrike in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine on April 22, 2025.
Finnish Boarder Guard’s ship Turva escorts oil tanker Eagle S on the Baltic on March 2, 2025.
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian visiting Iran’s nuclear achievements exhibition in Tehran, Iran on April 9, 2025.
Pope Francis passes away at age 88
The first Latin American pontiff on Easter Monday
BRE DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
Pope Francis and head of the Catholic Church, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, died Monday morning at age 88. The Vatican announced that he died due to a stroke that put him into a coma, leading to heart failure.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said from the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta, according to AP News.
Prior to his passing, Pope Francis had been battling a chronic lung disease. Having part of a lung removed in his youth, he was initially admitted into the hospital on Feb. 14, 2025 for a respiratory infection, which later developed into double pneumonia.
Pope Francis was most known for his emphasis on helping the poor, spreading peace and universal love. He was also the first Latin American pontiff, first elected in March 2013. AP News stated that many conservatives were upset by “his progressive bent, outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics and crackdown on traditionalists.”
Prior to his passing, Pope Francis had met
with United States Vice President JD Vance on Easter Sunday, making him one of the last world leaders to convene with the Pope. According to AP News, the visit included an exchange of kind words, gifts and opinions.
After hearing of the Pope’s passing, Vice President Vance wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him.”
The Catholic Church will soon perform the papal conclave, a gathering to select the new Bishop of Rome, or Pope.
According to National Public Radio (NPR), “When a reigning pope dies, an immediate duty falls to the camerlengo, a cardinal whose title translates to ‘chamberlain.’ The camerlengo declares the pope is deceased and administers the Holy See until a successor is chosen. The current camerlengo is Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the first American in that post.”
Pope Francis waves as he arrives to lead the weekly audience in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Oct. 21, 2015. Photo taken from Reuters/Alessandro Bianchi
Although unclear at the moment as to who will fill Pope Francis’ shoes, millions around the world are grieving his loss.
Beyond April:
MICHALAH BECK
MICHALAH.BECK.22@CNU.EDU Story continued from cover
The panel discussed the campus engagement for these events. They claimed campus “strength” is subjective in that attendance does not matter as much as retention. “It just so happens that [Sexual Assault Awareness Month] is in April, but it doesn’t just stay in April,” Keanté Eppes said.
Hour2Empower occurred on April 10 and marked the first event for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Where’s the Line and Fear2Freedom partnered for this event, where the visitors watched a presentation about how to handle hearing about sexual assaults through bystander intervention, how to respond to someone’s story and how to take initiatives to aid in preventing sexual assault on CNU’s campus. Visitors dedicated an hour to filling iCare and AfterCare kits, which are given to sexual assault survivors who visit the Riverside Hospital and through Fear2Freedom’s office.
President Kelly made an appearance at Hour2Empower, where he helped volunteers pack iCare and AfterCare kits. AfterCare kits are given to victims of sexual abuse when they arrive at the hospital, whereas the iCare kits are a tool for survivors who may not have chosen to go to the hospital.
“I think [April is a] time to highlight the importance of supporting our survivors and acknowledging that this work is never done,” President Kelly said.
This April was the first time CNU took part in Take Back the Night, a
nationwide event to create a conversation about survivors’ experiences. Take Back the Night was broken up into three parts, a rally at the Freeman Center to hear from survivors of sexual assault, experts and activists, a march around campus and then a speak-out back at the Freeman Center to uplift the voices of the survivors.
CNU will celebrate its second observance of National Denim Day on April 30 in coordination with the Wellness Action Team for Captain’s Health (WATCH). According to CNU’s website, “WATCH is a group of students, faculty, staff and community partners who seek to promote the institutional wellness of the CNU community through collaboration with student organizations, campus offices and academic faculty.” Chief Communications Officer Jim Hanchett said that “WATCH sponsors and hosts programs to educate the CNU community and raise awareness about health and wellness prevention topics.”
According to Denim Days’ official website, National Denim Day started 25 years ago as a protest against a court ruling in Italy. A judge determined that a rape victim was as compliant and consented to the act since she wearing tight jeans, implying the suspect would have needed assistance with the act. Supporters wearing denim on National Denim Day demonstrate solidarity with all sexual assault victims. CNU encourages all faculty, staff and students to wear denim on National Denim Day.
“It’s not just about April, it’s not just about tonight. It’s 365 days a year, and we have to be there, and our survivors deal with this every single day, and it’s important for us to be supporters,” President Kelly said.
For resources to support survivors of sexual assault or sexual violence, please visit the Office of Institutional Compliance/Title IX website.
Gabriel Landeskog returns to Avalanche
TREY GREENWELL TRAJAN.GRENWELL.21@CNU.EDU
Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog is one step closer to making his return to the National Hockey League (NHL).
Last week, the team announced that Landeskog had officially rejoined the team. This gave a clear indication that the Avalanche would play him during their first round Stanley Cup playoffs matchup against the Dallas Stars, making him one step closer to playing NHL hockey for the first time in three years.
Since returning to hockey, Landeskog had been loaned to the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League (AHL) on a conditioning assignment. In the assignment, he played his first hockey game since Game 6 of the 2022 Stanley Cup Final where the Avalanche defeated the Tampa Bay
TREY GREENWELL
A memorable comeback
Lightning 2-1 to win the Stanley Cup. In that AHL game, Landeskog recorded two shots on goal in almost 15 minutes of ice time.
In his second AHL game, Landeskog had a goal and an assist which led to him being named the First Star of the game. This proved to be enough for the Avalanche to call him up to the NHL roster. While Landeskog did not feature in the team’s 5-1 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 1, all signs point to him returning during the series. At the time of writing, it is still unclear when Landeskog will
return to NHL action.
After winning the Stanley Cup, Landeskog missed the 2022-2023 season after having surgery on his right knee before the season. He then got cartilage transplant surgery on May 10, 2023, leading to him being ruled out for the 20232024 campaign as well as the current campaign to this point.
Selected by the Avalanche with the second pick in the 2011 draft, Landeskog has recorded 571 points in 738 regular season games and 67 points in 69 playoff games.
“While Landeskog did not feature in the team’s 5-1 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game 1, all signs point to him returning during the series.”
Johnny Gaudreau case update
A lengthy trial
TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU
for a Calgary Flames reglar season game on March 31, 2016. Johnny Gaudreau by Mark6muno is licensed under the CC By-SA 2.0 Deed.
More evidence was found regarding the details of the deaths of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, almost eight months after the crash
occurred.
On Apr. 3, a motion filed by prosecutors in New Jersey asked a judge to keep the details of Johnny and Matthew’s blood alcohol levels out of the case. This is because it was argued that the detail was irrelevant to what had happened, since the brothers
“On Apr. 3, a motion filed by prosecuters in New Jersey asked a judge to keep the details of Johnny and Matthew’s blood alcohol levels out of the case.”
were not breaking any laws bicycling.
With the motion becoming public on Apr. 16, a more detailed look into what had happened before and after the crash, as well as the ongoing investigation was provided.
After the crash, a New Jersey State Police sergeant found Higgins about 1,500 feet from the site. They also found the Gaudreaus at the site and deemed both brothers dead. Higgins had been described by both troopers and witnesses as panicked and continuously pacing. Court records stated that no tire or skid marks were found at the initial point of impact, indicating no attempt from Higgins to brake or avoid the collision. Blood tests revealed that Higgins had a blood alcohol level of 0.087, more than the legal limit.
At the crash site, Higgins had told troopers that he was behind two other vehicles
who were driving between 30 and 40 miles per hour (mph) who he was trying to pass. In a formal statement at the police station that same night, Higgins elaborated by telling investigators that the vehicles in front of him were going between 20 and 30 mph. Higgins had said that he passed a sedan on the left as he was impatient. Higgins told the police that once he saw a Ford Bronco, he thought the driver was trying to block his passing, causing him to go back into the right lane where the crash occurred. Higgins is currently held in a New Jersey jail. With a request to dismiss all charges held against him rejected, a maximum prison sentence of 70 years could be sentenced if Higgins were to be found guilty at trial. He had previously rejected an offer from prosecution that would have given him 35 years in exchange for a guilty plea.
Gabriel Landeskog with the Colorado Avalanche during the 2013-2014 NHL season.
Gabriel Landeskog Avalanche by 5of7 is licensed under the CC By Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Deed.
Johnny Gaudreau during pre-game warmups
Kyren Lacy passes away
TREY GREENWELL TRAJAN.GRENWELL.21@CNU.EDU
Former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver Kyren Lacy has been found dead.
The cause of death was by suicide as it was from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Apr. 13, less than two weeks before his selection in the 2025 National Football League (NFL) draft.
The death happened when Lacy fled the scene of a verbal argument with family members. When Lacy fired his gun into the ground, it drew the attention of police, who tried to perform a traffic stop of the vehicle. His car crashed after driving for several miles with the gunshot wound being discovered once the police took him into custody.
Prior to the draft, Lacy had been accused of causing a car crash that killed a 78-yearold man on Dec. 17 and fleeing the scene without rendering aid or calling authorities. On Jan. 12, he turned himself in, was jailed and then released on $151,000 bail.
Louisiana Parish Sheriff’s Office records
A tragic loss
In the statement, Arceneaux mentioned that Lacy would have been willing to adhere to any civil matters regardless of the grand jury’s decision to drop his felony charge. He also criticized the NFL for their handling of the crash, revealing how the league immediately revoked Lacy’s draft invitation before all evidence was presented to them.
Lacy played three seasons at LSU after starting his career at Louisiana. His best season was last year when he caught 58 passes for 866 yards and nine touchdowns.
Coming soon in CNU Sports:
*Games listed are happening at CNU
April 26th:
*Women’s Softball
CNU v. Mary Washington
Location: Newport News, VA
Time: 1:00 and 3:30 PM
Men’s Baseball
CNU v. Salisbury University
Location: Salisbury, MD
indicated that Lacy was charged with negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run with death and reckless operation of a vehicle. A grand jury was set to begin hearing evidence in the case prior to Lacy’s death.
Two days after the crash, Lacy declared for the NFL draft. He did
not play in LSU’s win over Baylor in the Texas Bowl. He participated in March at LSU’s pro day and raised his draft stock in the process. Many believed Lacy would still be drafted despite the car crash.
In the days following Lacy’s death, his agent, Rocky Arceneaux, released a statement.
“The death happened when Lacy fled the scene of a verbal argument with family members...”
Here’s What You Missed!
3) The Philadelphia Eagles and center Cam Jurgens have agreed to a four year, $68 million contract extension.
4) The New York Rangers have fired head coach Peter Laviolette.
Time: 2:00 PM
Men’s Tennis
CNU v. Salisbury University
Location: Salisbury, MD
Time: 3:00 PM
*Women’s Lacrosse
CNU v. Washington and Lee University
Location: Newport News, VA
Time: 3:00 PM
April 28th:
Men’s Baseball
CNU v. Hampden-Sydney College
Location: Hampden-Sydney, VA
Time: 4:00 PM
To look at events off campus and for future weeks, visit cnusports.com
Kyren Lacy during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks on September 23. 2023. LSU vs Arkansas by Tammy Anthony Baker is licensed under the CC By Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.
Celebrating Earth Day
Sunset over the water at Lionsgate Bridge, taken by Claire Hall/ TheCaptain’sLog
Bird standing on a rock at Lionsgate Bridge, taken by Claire Hall/ TheCaptain’sLog
Blue Ridge Mountains in the spring, taken by Amanda Eacho/ TheCaptain’sLog
Earth Day
Botanical garden in Bar Harbor, Maine, taken by Katherine Zickel/ TheCaptain’sLog
Azalea bush in Williamsburg, Virginia, taken by Katherine Zickel/ TheCaptain’sLog
Sounds of spring: CNU A Cappella spring showcases
ELIZABETH WEINAND
ELIZABETH.WEINAND.23@CNU.EDU
Wrapping up the spring semester, Christopher Newport University’s A Cappella clubs are hyped to show off their work at their various spring concerts. In the words of Junior USounder Jasmine Hector, “a cappella is supposed to be fun” and that spirit is best displayed at each groups’ spring concerts. These concerts showcase the work members put into learning songs and techniques throughout the year. Each club’s distinctive qualities are reflected in their song choice and performance style.
Trebled Youth’s treasurer, Freshman Reese Wasserman stated “Trebled Youth is unique because we have such a strong bond with each other…[we] know when to lock in but also have fun just being silly.” Driven by their mission statement to “expand the A Cappella opportunities offered on campus,” Trebled Youth welcomes “novice and experienced singers” into their “forever family.” Their music tastes range from gentle jazzy songs like Laufey’s “From the Start” to peppy modern pieces like HalfAlive’s “still feel.”
If you’re interested in girl power, pull up to the Newport Pearls! This all female group is the first a cappella club formed at CNU. According to Sophomore member Kaeleigh Hughes, the best part of performance prep is the camaraderie during their “energizer called ‘break the table’” which pumps the girls up for their shows. The Pearls embrace goals of “friendship, joy in performing and creating a second home on campus.” Showing off their treble vocals, the Newport Pearls’ spring set list includes “Can’t Catch Me Now” by Olivia Rodrigo and “Northern Attitude” by Noah Kahan and Hozier.
Celebrating 17 years of activity, University Sounds is a co-ed a cappella group focused on musical excellence and making memories. Sophomore Ryan Ellis, the newly elected vice president, stated that University Sounds “is unique because we tackle all kinds of music,” in agreement with sophomore treasurer David Avila, who says “our songs are super emotional.”
Some crowd favorites from this year’s concert include Hozier’s “All Things End” and the duet “Love Me Less” by
“Each club’s distinctive qualities are reflected in their song choice and performance style. “
MAX and Quinn XCII. University Sounds aims to create a family through musical engagement, and does this through performances and outside activities alike. One of the most beloved traditions before each concert is to run a peppy chant, sparking the energy that USounders lovingly call “USounds magic.”
If you missed these groups’ performances, fret not! Come to the last two concerts of the spring and support the a cappella community. Extreme Measures’ spring concert is Apr. 25 at 4 p.m. in Pope Chapel and Take Note is on Apr. 27 at 11:30 a.m. in the Studio Theater
Take Note Spring Concert flyer from @cnu_takenote on Instagram.
CNU Percussion Ensemble presents “Tribal”
ALYSSA TILLMAN ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU
The Christopher Newport University Percussion Ensemble performed their “Tribal” themed showcase last Thursday in Peebles Theatre. Friends and family gathered to experience what Director Scott Amman described as a performance that would “evoke the imagery of a lost tribe in the middle of nowhere.” Within the ensemble there is a wide variety of skills and background experience and many of the percussionists are a part of The Marching Captains.
The percussion ensemble performed six pieces, opening the show with “Tribe” by Chad Heiny. This piece followed the elements of a tribal ceremony, and had a fast-paced energy that kept the audience on their toes. Percussionists were both on stage and in the balcony surrounding the audience for this piece, creating an immersive sound. The ensemble then transitioned from the intense tribal sound to Brian Blume’s “West Winds”, which Amman described as “a gentle breeze of the wind and a sense of calm.” This piece featured lots of windchimes and cymbals, creating the illusion of wind sounds.
The next piece, titled “Six Marimbas” featured six percussionists on stage without Director Scott, who introduced the piece as “Very calming and relaxing. Nothing’s gonna jump out at you and scare you like the first piece.” The piece begins with three marimbas playing the same eight beat rhythmic pattern,
but with different notes for each marimba. One of the other marimbas begins to gradually build up the exact pattern of one of the marimbas already playing by putting the notes of the fifth beat on the seventh beat, then putting the notes of the first beat on the third beat, and so on, reconstructing the same pattern with the same notes, but two beats out of phase. The six percussionists played for an impressive 26 minutes straight–audience members could see them shake their hands out as they walked off stage. They then moved on to “Island Echoes” by Nancy Galbraith, who actually visited campus earlier in the semester to watch them perform this piece for her.
The fifth piece was Camile SaintSaens’ “Danse Macabre”. This piece is linked to an old legend: Death appears at midnight every year on Halloween. Death calls forth the dead from their graves to dance for him while he plays his fiddle (here represented by Senior Ethan Wills on the xylophone). His skeletons dance for him until the cockerel crows at dawn, when they must return to their graves until the next year.
The final piece, Francisco Perez’s “Fuerza Negra”, has an unstoppable groove, which draws from the rhythms and harmonies of Latin, pop and rock music. It was definitely a crowd favorite!
The CNU Percussion Ensemble presents a new showcase every semester, so keep an eye out in the future!
CNU Percussion Ensemble performing the 26 minute piece “Six Marimbas,” photo taken by Samuel Celestino.
Serena Williams announced as executive producer for “Carrie Soto Is Back” Taylor Jenkins Reid’s tennis drama set for Netflix adaptation
ALYSSA TILLMAN
ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU
Taylor Jenkins Reid’s best selling tennis-themed novel “Carrie Soto Is Back” has been taken in for development by Netflix, Deadline reports. Tennis legend Serena Williams is set to executive produce the project from Fifth Season and Picturestart. Williams confirmed the news in a post to her Instagram Stories as she shared a screenshot of the Deadline article and tagged her production company.
“Carrie Soto Is Back” follows fictional tennis legend Carrie Soto, whose determination to win at all costs has not made her popular. But by the time she retires from tennis, she is the best player the world has ever seen. Six years after her retirement, her world record might be taken from her by a brutal, stunning player named Nicki Chan. At 37 years old, Carrie makes the monumental decision to come out of retirement and be coached by her
father for one last year in an attempt to reclaim her record.
While Carrie Soto is not based on Williams, the character evokes the 23-time Grand Slam winner, and Reid has spoken of the Williams sisters’ influence on the book.“My incredible respect for the Williams sisters is part of what makes me interested in tennis,” she said in an interview at the time of the book’s 2022 release. In addition to inspiring the book, Williams will also play a key role as a tennis consultant for the series, much like the production team of last year’s Challengers by Luca Guadagnino, who brought in renowned tennis coach Brad Gilbert to advise on-set tennis scenes.
The news makes Carrie Soto Is Back the latest of Reid’s bestselling books to be adapted for the screen. Her 2019 Fleetwood Mac-inspired novel “Daisy Jones & the Six” was adapted into the 2023 smash hit Prime Video series of the same name, starring Riley Keough and Sam Claflin. Additionally, 2017’s The
“My incredible respect for the Williams sisters is part of what makes me interested in tennis...”
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is also getting a Netflix movie adaptation.
The series is currently in the early stages of development, with casting details and premiere dates expected to be announced by Netflix over the coming year.
Serena Williams during her 3rd round match with Heather Watson on Centre Court. Day 5 of Wimbledon 2015. Image from Wikimedia Commons.
LIFESTYLE
Dorm desires:
Top 15 things you need for your dorm next year
ELIZABETH WEINAND ELIZABETH.WEINAND.23@CNU.EDU
When making your tiny dorm space homelike for a semester or year, there are some essentials that might not have made it to the packing list. Here are some student recommendations for the top items necessary to make your dorm experience homey, comfortable and fun!
1. Function
Arguably the most important things in your room are the things that serve practical purposes. CNU Housing provides a list with the bare minimum essentials at move-in. However, here are a few extra tips from some upperclassmen.
Reusable water bottle: Senior Audrey Lihos ‘25 advises to get a water bottle with an “easy to wash mouthpiece” to help streamline cleanup for the business of the semester.
Mattress topper: Nashara Richardson ‘25 recommends this as the first thing you should get for dorm life. Who knows how many other students have used that mattress.
Dishes: Even if you do not have a kitchen, having cups or plates for food can be life saving if you miss dining hall hours. Maggie Langborgh ‘26 recommends having “coffee mugs” for those chilly winter nights in the Fall.
Surge protector: When finishing that paper at 11:55 pm, you you better make sure your laptop is charged and ready to go. Eleni Molina ‘25 had this one as her #1.
2. Organization
Keeping yourself organized is critical to success as a student. This
looks different for everyone, but here are a few items that might be just what you are you are looking for.
Organization cart: This is a versatile item with many uses in a small space. Junior Abby Plaia ‘26 recommends getting one for “your bathroom supplies and another one for your snacks.” For bathroom supplies, senior Nashara Richardson suggested getting a “toothbrush holder and a basket to hold toiletries.” Always good to keep your personal items organized.
Sticky notes: There are infinite ways to make use of sticky notes, from calendars, to reminders, to little encouraging notes around the room. Senior Naomi Hamaker ‘25 recommends these, and says “[it’s] a personal thing”--Make it your own!
Whiteboard: As Audrey Lihos ‘25 states, these “serve so many purposes!” From “planning, communication with roommates, study tools, etc” this will never lack a purpose in your dorm life.
Expo markers: Hand in hand with the whiteboard, having a few expo markers in your backpack might just be exactly what you need when working in the library during finals. They are also great Great for decorating your whiteboard as well!
3. Clothing
Here in the 757, we go through all four seasons on campus. Come prepared with a few of these essentials!
Rain gear: Being near the ocean, that coastal weather pays visits to campus throughout the year. “It gets too windy for an umbrella,” stated Audrey Lihos ‘25, so come ready with rain boots and a jacket.
Tennis shoes: While we’re not a hilly campus, there is still a fair bit of walking going from class to dorms or to storeshop etc. Sophomore Will Rowe ‘27 recommends bringing a good pair of “walking shoes…[CNU is] a very walkable campus.”
Shower shoes: In your
underclassmen years, you’ll likely be sharing a bathroom with one 1 or more roommates.other people. Be kind to your feet; invest in some good shower shoes! (Eleni Molina ‘25).
Tide to go: We have all been there. Rushing out the door, and your favorite sweater gets those tiny drops of your morning coffee on the sleeve. Just like that, your wholeWhole outfit is ruined. As advised by senior Naomi Hamaker ‘25, keep a tide stick on hand for these little wardrobe malfunctions.
4. Decorations
Think of your empty dorm room as an empty canvas. The possibilities are endless for how to personalize and cozy up your new living space. Here are a few ideas from those more experienced juniors and seniors for things to bring.
Wall art: this one is a basic one, and was top of of the list for Maggie Langborgh ‘26. Some ideas include posters, records, photographs, “hanging lights,” or a “good lamp,” (Abby Plaia ‘26).
Cozy blankets: Whether a throw or a comforter, blankets are so important especially in the chilly months. As Audrey Lihos ‘25 states, they’re great “for when the temperature fluctuates.” It’ll be 80 degrees one week and back to 55 the next, so it’s good to have an extra blanket on hand.
Plants: Even if you do not have a green thumb, a plant is a great way to liven up a living space. Be sure to have a “vase for flowers” just in case of special occasions (Naomi Hamaker ‘25).
Dorm room, phototaken by Claire Hall/TheCaptainsLog
Summer edition! Five fashion tips
VICTORIA BAYLISS
VICTORIA.BAYLISS.21@CNU.EDU
As this semester draws to a close, we find ourselves changing our wardrobe once again. From cozy sweaters, to tank tops and tees, the temperature is climbing and we can see it in the fashion alone. However, we have to stay ahead of the heat if we do not want to swelter under the boiling moisture. There are some universal ways to stay cool in the upcoming climbing temperatures and I’d be a-mis to keep them to myself. Whether you work outside or just want to spend some fun in the sun, any way to stay as cool as possible is always appreciated. Here are a few helpful tips to keep you cool with the scorching heat heading our way.
1. Lighter fabrics
Ditch the synthetics and look at your tags! Lighter (and natural) cloth is proven to be more breathable and less stifling and suffocating than synthetic ones. You can find the components of your clothes on the back of your clothing tags (if you haven’t cut them out) or buy new ones online! Are they going to be more expensive? Maybe. But if your priority is comfort for surviving the inevitable heatwave, then au natural is the way to go.
2. Looser fabrics
You know that feeling of your clothes clinging to your body? Yeah, no. Wearing loose fabrics instead of tight-fitting ones can help prevent the inevitable stick to skin that makes you feel uncomfortable. Whether it is flouncy dresses or wider pants, everyone could benefit from some flow action. You can even look cooler too when a breeze blows by and your fabric flaps in the wind.
3. Lighter colors
Black is dependable, staple and classic. Some say everything can go with it, and it is the easiest color to match with, but in the sweltering sun, dark colors can be detrimental. Wearing lighter colors is another way to beat the heat. If you are looking for some color alternatives, look no further than neutrals: browns, greys and whites (yes, this can include creams as well). You will find out that you will not be as hot as if you had worn navy or black. Remember: the lighter the better!
4. Lighter jewelry
Avoid metals! Feeling flashy does not have to come at the cost of your searing skin. Get rid of the glare reflected in your eyes from the shine and choose something simpler, like fabric! Stone, string and other accessories can still elevate a look without you feeling like meat on a skewer. Another alternative is pearls! Both are a classy look and increasing in popularity. They can add an air of elegance and elevate any outfit while still feeling cool against the skin. The color variety is also something fun to play with. Since they are softer than metal, it will not feel as rough or harsh.
5. Logistic head coverings
Hats are back in fashion! Hats, silky scarves and bandanas, are good ways to avoid the scorching sun. My one advice to keep in mind would be to find something breathable: straw, natural, anything to keep your scalp cool. Bonus points if you find something that keeps the glare out of your eyes. Otherwise, you will feel your brain being baked alive. And hey, who does not like portable shade?
You do not have to buy a new wardrobe to do this! Look in your closet, borrow from friendsor go thrifting for some basics if you find the time. You would be amazed at what a few simple changes can do for you. So do not sweat it out, and stay cool while looking cool!
Claire’s Corner
Your go-to advice column for college
CLAIRE HALL CLAIRE.HALL.22@CNU.EDU
How do I manage all these assignments I have before finals, such as papers and projects?
It is that time of the semester again where papers and projects start to pile up. This can feel quite overwhelming, as there is only so much time we have before finals. Despite it seeming practically impossible to get everything done, you will get to everything. Here are some tips that can help you manage your time and finish all of your assignments.
1. Create a planner
Even if you aren’t a ‘planner’ type person, creating one now will help you so much. Tasks can pile up and remembering everything can be difficult. Organizing assignments into a planner ensures that you will remember everything that is due. You can even organize them by the due date to help you further. If you google ‘assignment tracker’ on Google Sheets, you will get a lot of templates that can help you stay organized.
2. Leave your computer
You heard me correctly. Walk away from your computer. Sitting on your computer for hours and hours on end will not be helpful when trying to finish all of your assignments. Taking breaks is vital as it resets your brain and gives you room to rest. If you try to get to everything at once, you will burn yourself out. Give yourself time to breathe, it will help much more than you will know.
3. Find a quiet place to work
These last couple of grades are very important, as most of them are big projects and papers. Make sure you are in the best place you can be to work, meaning a place that is not a distraction. If you are working in the wrong space, you will easily get distracted and will fall off track. A perfect example of this is your dorm. While our dorms are very comfortable
and nice to be in, it is easy to get distracted there. Focus is essential when trying to complete your work.
4.Give yourself affirmations
Sitting there and wallowing about assignments does not make them feel any better to complete. I know that everyone, including myself, does this. It is okay to be frustrated or stressed with dozens of assignments, but the way you approach them can make a difference. Be positive. Tell yourself that you can do this. Stay motivated. This will help you when trying to finish an assignment, as a boost of motivation can do a lot.
5. Most importantly, reach out for help
If you are struggling with completing things on time, talk to someone. Reach out for help. There have been multiple cases where I overwhelmed myself with work and had to ask for help from professors. A lot of professors will work with you, and may even extend your due date if necessary. I think that a lot of people need to understand that it is okay to reach out for help. Professors and fellow students are there to help you. This is a stressful time of year for everyone. Ask for help.
I hope these tips help when conquering final exam week. Unfortunately, this is the last Claire’s Corner for the academic year. Thank you so much to everyone who reads my advice column and sends me questions. Claire’s Corner would not be possible without you guys and I hope my advice has helped you one way or another. I will be back during the next academic year to continue my advice column. Until next time, this is Claire, signing off until next semester!
Flowers, phototaken by Claire Hall/TheCaptainsLog
OPINIONS
12
“The Captain’s Log is free to write anything it pleases and CNU fully respects the Freedom of the press.”— Former President Paul Trible
“I don’t watch the news”
Oh grow up already
I think one of the most insufferable kinds of people are the ones who say: “I don’t read/
“To not educate yourself is a selfish and ignorant choice. You are choosing your own temporary peace of mind over the future of not just yourself, but everyone around you...”
watch the news because it makes me sad!” This is the mindset of someone willing to sit idly by while momentous historical events unfold, without regard for their impact.
You are watching your country be massacred from the inside out and you are too selfishly absorbed by the trivial things happening in your personal life to notice. If you’re reading this and thinking “Well, it doesn’t affect me.” Oh, but it does!
News flash: it impacts you (and not in a good way!). It impacts your children. It impacts your livelihood, your friends, your family, everyone around you. Your narrow minded perspective of the world will inevitably lead to your own downfall. You are slowly killing yourself and everyone around you simply by not looking up from your own little world.
We are floating in infinite space on a rock. That situationship you’re in won’t matter in a few years. You know what will?
When you can no longer afford to feed your family because the economy is so royally screwed up. When your friends lose their rights to vote. When vital programs are defunded. When everything is ruined. When a tangerine man with a poorly bleached toupee and a billionaire supervillain succeed in taking over everything.
To not educate yourself is a selfish and ignorant choice. You are choosing your own temporary peace of mind over the future of not just yourself, but everyone around you. An uninformed population is an obedient one.
I saw the other day the following lines: “The forest was shrinking. But the trees kept voting for the axe because its handle was made of wood and they thought it was one of them.”
“I saw
the other day the following lines: ‘The forest was shrinking. But the trees kept voting for the axe because its handle was made of wood
and they thought it was one of them.’”
No, that exert is not about deforestation in the literal sense. Choose wisely who you elect to “blindly follow.” You cannot pledge “liberty and justice for all” when you really only mean yourself and those “like” you. To love your country is to fight for it, not sit by while power hungry tyrants and bigots tear it to pieces. Do better.
“Your narrow minded perspective of the world will inevitably lead to your own downfall. You are slowly killing yourself and everyone around you simply by not looking up from your own little world.”
Your ignorance and lack of care for the planet and people around you is so insanely selfish and insufferable, you make me nauseous. And if you’re reading this and are feeling offended, know how smug that makes me feel. If this resonates, then let’s hope this is your wake up call. Otherwise, if the shoe fits, wear it. It’s all you’ll have left when this mess is over.
People take part in a protest against U.S. President Donald Trump, tariffs, deportations, a variety of other policies, and Elon Musk at the White House in one of many demonstrations taking place nationwide, in Washington, D.C., U.S., on April 19, 2025. REUTERS/Allison Bailey
The NoVA plague:
Northern Virginians and their superiority complex
NIA DAVIS NIA.DAVIS.24@CNU.EDU
I do not consider Northern Virginia (NoVA) a part of Virginia. I know that sounds really harsh but I just do not. I’m from a small town about an hour southwest from Richmond. We’re southern to the core with the accent to prove it. Before coming to Christopher Newport University (CNU), I had never interacted with people from Northern Virginia for extended amounts of time. To be honest, I never really thought about them as a group at all. However, when I came to CNU, I was astounded. I have never seen people so smart but clueless at the same time. Yes, I know I’m generalizing and I’m very aware that not all Northern Virginians are like this or come from privileged backgrounds. In fact, I’ve met some pretty good NoVA individuals. However, a lot of them
somehow have completely forgotten that Virginia is not full of private schools with rich neighborhoods. I have talked to several people from NoVA that seem to think that they live in some place like New York City and have completely given up on southern hospitality, and I do not blame them.
Perhaps I just envy how much opportunity they have and their proximity to the center of democracy. Either way, that does not excuse their erasure of the rest of Virginia. While this piece is lighthearted in nature, I have noticed that in our state government, the small towns that deal with a variety of issues are overlooked and not seen as serious.
I know this has been a grating critique of my fellow Captains but opinions change! I hope that within the next three
years, I gain a new perspective of my northern neighbors and maybe they’ll invite me to a Nationals game (that’s if they still like me after this).
“I have never seen people so smart but clueless at the same time.”
Washington D.C Monument, taken by Katherine Zickel/TheCaptainsLog
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“Summer Vacation is Almost Here!”
mom 51 Caviar
52 Doofenshmirtz' daughter
56 Spicy sushi condiment
59 Cause to blush
60 Vacation to the outer banks, perhaps 63 Home of Arizona State University
64 Calm before the storm 65 Corn units 66 Camera part 67 Art Deco artist 68 Online copyright protection acronym DOWN 1 Tombstone letters 2 Stink 3 Natural burn medicine also found in tropical drinks 4 Oracle location 5 Exalted 6 "The ___ of the Rings" 7 Film or video game music (abbr.) 8 Swift, in music 9 Ruins 10 Spiciness 11 Big name in frozen waffles
12 Zeroes 16 Observe 18 Two of a kind 22 Biblical vessel 24 Most important part of dating 25 ___ mignon
26 Small
27 Groundbreakin g device?
28 Beginning, as of symptoms
29 Intelligence
30 Bit of numerical info
31 Lobster part
32 Lavish party
36 CNU's chemistry fraternity, for short
38 Tiny toymaker
42 Wondrous event
45 Cases for dermatologists
46 Shawn's counterpart at Psych 47 Powerless 48 "Gee whiz!"
49 Very passionate
52 Industrial tub
53 Brother of Cain
54 Identity
55 TV channel for baseball or hockey
56 Mickey's creator
57 "Dracula" author Stoker
58 "Unless my memory is failing me," over text
61 France's cont.
62 FYI