Vol 56 Iss 12

The Captain’s Log THE VOICE OF CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY STUDENTS @CNUCAPTAINSLOG

CNUCLOG.COM

VOLUME 56, ISSUE 12

DECEMBER 5, 2024

The story within the frame

Photo of the Torggler Center, taken by Amanda Eacho/TheCaptainsLog

A closer look into CNU’s 18th annual photography campus that didn’t have a place with the use of AI. Admission to exhibition to put them. Those interns made see the beauty of the exhibition SAMANTHA WOLFE SAMANTHA.WOLFE.24@CNU.EDU

For 18 years, Christopher Newport’s Art Department has held an annual photography exhibition. A month prior to the event, they release a call for artists to submit their work. Each and every artist submits a physical framed piece that cannot be heavily edited nor is formulated

What’s Inside

is completely void of cost. The exhibition that so many people have poured their hearts into was opened to the public on Nov. 2, 2024, and continues to remain open until Feb. 9, 2025.

This annual exhibition originated in 2007, when the arts interns observed that there were a lot of photographers across

News 2-3

Sports 4-5

CNU student arrested

Blake Snell signs with Dodgers

New Jersey man arrested

Chicago Bears fire Matt Eberflus

International updates Playoffs influence AP poll

Snapshot 6-7 Around campus sights Dorm plants

sure the exhibition was open to more than just students, but faculty and people in the community as well.

Department Chair and Director of the Museum Studies program at Christopher Newport University, Dr. Michelle Ehardt, shined light on the most challenging part of leading this exhibition,

making it coherent with all the different frames.

“It is always the hardest to lay out and design, because we never know what the art looks like until we drop it off.

None of the frames match, none of the work looks alike [and] the themes are different..”

Dr. Ehardt and her team of interns did a fantastic job with the execution of the exhibition despite it being a small exhibit that is up for several weeks. The exhibition is stationed on the second floor of the Mary M. Torggler Center of the Arts at Christopher Newport University. Dr. Edhart expressed, “We are very proud of the academic photography program. We have an outstanding photography program [and] many of our students go on to be professional photographers.”

This year’s Photography Exhibition will be judged by a 2023 CNU graduate alumni, Vance Solseth, who is returning to judge the submissions.

While each judge has different specifications and criteria they judge based off of, it is important to all judges that the pieces hold meaning.

(Story continued in A & E p. 8)

A&E 8-9

Lifestyle 10-11

CNU photo exhibit

Unhinged holiday quirks

“Wicked Part 1” review

Staying busy inside for winter

“Moana 2” reivew

Claire’s Corner

Opinions 12-13

Stop staring at your phone Overrrated holiday activities

Exam de-stress poll

NEWS

PAGE 2

Crime Update:

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International Affairs Update:

Photo of police issued crime scene caution tape, photo from WikiCommonsImages

CNU student arrested

CNU Interfraternity Council responds to accusatory comments made against member organizations BREANNA DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU

Christopher Newport University student Chase Sudki was arrested on four felony charges on Oct. 20. According to the General District Court Online Case Information System provided by the state of Virginia, the charges include rape by force/threat, sodomy of a helpless victim/ force, strangulation and drug possession. Sudki was an alleged member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity at CNU. Since his arrest, many students have made speculations across social media about how the behavior exhibited is related to stereotypical fraternity culture.

Several posts have circulated social media accusing some fraternity organizations of inappropriate misconduct, including other cases of sexual assault. Many students on social media are blaming the Interfraternity Council (IFC) for ‘not holding fraternities accountable’ for their actions.

The IFC responded to the allegations in an

instagram story post made on Nov. 23, stating that they had been made aware of “slanderous language against one of [their] member organizations.”

The IFC also stated that they do not condone this behavior and are taking the matter very seriously. The primary focus of the post was to encourage students to stop the spread of the accusatory posts and to take measures to delete the information from all social media platforms.

“The IFC continues to push to make our Greek community as safe and inclusive as possible, and promote unity amongst our organizations,” the CNU IFC stated in their post.

The IFC declined to respond to a request for comment from The Captain’s Log. The Captain’s Log does not claim that the behavior exhibited by Sudki is a product of or in relation to Greek life culture.

New Jersey man arrested on several felony charges

Suspects possession of firearm connects him to other cases LINDSAY DEYTON LINDSAY.DEYTON.22@CNU.EDU

ABC’s 13 News Now reported that on Oct. 15, an armed robbery in Virginia Beach was committed by 21-year-old Timothy Lane of New Jersey. The previous day, Lane had committed a shooting in the neighboring county of Chesapeake. Police reported that the gun still in the suspects’ possession helped to connect the suspect to the two related crimes. The charges brought against the suspect included daytime armed burglary, armed robbery, two counts of firearm in commission of a felony, wearing a mask and felony destruction of property, police said. Police stated that the charges brought on to Lane came from a previous home invasion that same day, in the 700 block of Brook Meadow Court.

During Lane’s initial arrest after the armed robbery, police stated that the gun that he was

found with was sent to NIBIN (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms’ National Integrated Ballistic Information Network). As for the Chesapeake shooting, Lane was charged with shooting at an occupied dwelling, vandalism over $1,000, conspiracy to commit vandalism, possession of an auto sear, possession of a stolen firearm, carrying a loaded firearm with extended magazines, reckless handling of a firearm and willful discharge of a firearm in a public space.

“Technology is a force multiplier for our department, as it is for other departments in our region and across the country,” Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Heudigate said. “We’re thankful to have our own NIBIN equipment that allows us to share this information with our regional law enforcement partners to keep Hampton Roads safe.”

Photo of newly elected Vice President and first female leader of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, photo from WikiCommonsImages BREANNA DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU

First female leader in Namibia AP News reported on Dec. 3 that Namibia, a country in Southern Africa, has elected its first female leader, Vice President Netumbo NandiNdaitwah. She won the majority vote with a 57% turnout.

Opposition parties have rejected the results, claiming several election issues including an “illegal” extension of voting. The parties have stated that “they will challenge the results in court.”

U.N. stops aid shipments through Gaza AP News reported on Dec. 1 that the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees has stopped aid deliveries due to threats of looting by armed gangs.

“The U.N. agency’s decision could worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis as a second cold, rainy winter sets in, with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in squalid tent camps and reliant on international aid,” AP News stated.

The decision stems from safety concerns. The head of UNRWA, the primary aid provider in Gaza, Philippe Lazzarini stated that the route has become increasingly dangerous for crossing on the Gaza side. Last month roughly 100 trucks were looted by armed individuals.

SPORTS

PAGE 4

Blake Snell signs with Dodgers

TREY GREENWELL

TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU

The defending champions strengthen

Blake Snell warming up at the 2018 All-Star Game Home Run Derby. Blake Snell 2018 All-Star Game by Jeffrey Hyde is licensed under the CC By Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.

Blake Snell has signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Last week, left-handed pitcher Blake Snell signed a five year, $182 million contract with the team that includes no opt-outs and a $52 million signing bonus. This can be seen as risky as the value of Snell had been questionable given his rough path last season.

Although Snell was able to stay injury free at the beginning of the campaign, he struggled in March as he posted a 9.51 Earned Run Average (ERA) and was on the injured list twice. Many thought that he was not worth the two year, $62 million deal the San Francisco Giants had given him last offseason.

However, Snell began to return to his dominant form in the second half of the season. This was on full display during the complete game he threw against the Cincinnati Reds on Aug. 2, where he struck out 11 batters in a no-hitter. This game was the apex of a strong campaign from the 31 year-old as Snell finished the

out 11 batters in a no-hitter. This game was the apex of a strong campaign from the 31 year-old as Snell finished the season with a 5-3 record and a 3.12 ERA in 20 starts. While several teams, including the Dodgers were interested in acquiring Snell at the trade deadline, he remained in San Francisco.

With this move, the Dodgers have added to the one weakness the team had during their World Series run last season: starting pitching. Many players on their staff were injured by the postseason, leading to the Dodgers using an opener during some of their games. However, the addition of Snell will help fix this as he will be a key piece to a rotation that already includes Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Clayton Kershaw, Dustin May, Tony Gonsolin, Bobby Miller and Shohei Ohtani. If the starting rotation can stay healthy, there is no reason to believe why the Dodgers cannot repeat as World Series Champions.

Chicago Bears fire Matt Eberflus TREY GREENWELL

TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU

The Chicago Bears have fired former head coach Matt Eberflus.

The decision came one day after the Bears lost 23-20 to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day. With just over thirty seconds left in the game, Eberflus decided not to use his final timeout and let the clock run for one final play. With the Bears facing third down and only being a few yards from field goal range, it was hard to comprehend why Eberflus chose to run one play instead of potentially two that could have sent the game into overtime.

This is not the first time the Bears have made a questionable decision late in a game this season. In the team’s week 11 game against the Green

A historic announcement

Matt Eberflus during a visit to the USS Whitehat on Naval Station Great Lakes for a meet and greet event to sign autographs and take pictures with service-members, staff and their families. Chicago Bears Meet and Greet and NSGL by Joseph E. Montemarano is licensed under public domain.

“With Eberflus fired and the Bears far out of playoff contention, the hope is that this will accelerate the process for who will be head coach for the 2025 season.”

Bay Packers, Eberflus decided to run one play in the game’s last 35 seconds instead of running an extra play or two to make the field goal attempt closer for kicker Cairo Santos.

The 46 yard attempt was blocked, resulting in the first of three consecutive losses by three points or less.

On the day of his firing, Eberflus was talking to reporters about how he was preparing for the Bears next game

against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 8.

After his news conference, Eberflus was fired and offensive coordinator Thomas Brown became the team’s interim head coach. With Brown being instrumental to Williams’ resurgence over the past few games, the hope is that he can do the same for the Bears as they sit on a six game losing streak.

With Eberflus fired

and the Bears far out of playoff contention, the hope is that this move will accelerate the process for who will be the head coach for the 2025 season. The expectation is that the Bears will hire an offensive mind to pair with quarterback Caleb Williams in order to give him and the Bears the best chance to succeed. As the season begins to come to a close, the Bears feel more urgency than ever as these next few months will be instrumental in how the team’s long term future will play out.

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Playoffs influence newest AP Poll The end of a thrilling regular season

TREY GREENWELL

TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU

With the regular season coming to a close, the final Associated Press (AP) Polls were released.

While the top ten mostly stayed the same, Ohio State was the only one that slid as they fell to the No. 7 spot after losing 13-10 to Michigan. The loss puts the Panoramic view of Ohio Stadium during a Buckeyes out of the game with Northwestern University in 2007.

Big Ten Championship Panoramic view of Ohio Stadium by Joebengo Game and vaults the is licensed under the GNU Free Penn State Nittany Li- Documentation License. ons into it as they face the undefeated Oregon Ducks on Saturday night in Indianapolis.

Each week, the polls have served as a weekly reminder of the chaos fans have been witnessing all season. However, the lead near the end of Charlotte, North Caronot many can compare the third quarter. This lina next weekend. to the drop of the Mi- also means that they One of the biggest ami Hurricanes as they will not get the chance moves up in the poll fell six places to the to play in the Atlan- was the South CaroNo. 14 ranking after a tic Coast Conference lina Gamecocks who 42-38 defeat to Syra- (ACC) Championship defeated the Clemson cuse. The loss was a Game as they needed Tigers 17-14. The win tough one for the Hur- a win and a loss by the moved the Gamecocks ricanes as they took a Clemson Tigers to face up three places to the 21-0 lead before losing the SMU Mustangs in No. 13 spot, where they

“Each week, the polls have served as a reminder of the chaos fans have been witnessing all season.”

will hope to receive a bid by the College Football Playoff committee.

While there is a compelling case for them to go to the playoff, the ESPN College Football Playoff Predictor only gave the Gamecocks a 21 percent chance at being picked. The predictor has been a key guide to fans over the last month as to what programs have a good chance of reaching the playoff and which ones do not.

With the College Football Playoff rankings being released on Tuesday, the AP Polls are a way to see which teams are trending upward and which are trending downward. With Conference Championship games being played next weekend, the playoff landscape could continue to change as several programs continue to make their case to the committee.

Here’s What You Missed!

Coming soon in CNU Sports: *Games listed are happening at CNU December 6th: Women’s Soccer CNU v. Washington University in St. Louis NCAA Tournament Location: Las Vegas, NV Time: 5:30 PM December 7th: *Men’s Basketball CNU v. Mary Baldwin University Location: Newport News, VA Time: 4:00 PM December 8th: *Men’s and Women’s Track and Field CNU Holiday Open Location: Newport News, VA Time: 9:00 AM

1) San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey suffered a potential season-ending knee injury during Sunday’s loss to the Buffalo Bills.

December 9th: 2) Right-handed pitcher Frankie Montas has signed *Women’s Basketball a two year, $34 million contract with the New York CNU v. North Carolina Wesleyan University Mets.

Location: Newport News, 3) Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair has VA Time: 6:00 PM issued an apology for an illegal hit on Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence.

To look at events off 4) The Minnesota Wild have acquired defenseman campus and for future David Jiricek from the Columbus Blue Jackets. weeks, visit cnusports.com

SNAPSHOT

PAGE 6

Around Campus Sights

Image of Christopher Newport Hall in the evening

Image of the path to the Ferguson Parking Garage surrounded by fall leaves

All photos taken by Amanda Eacho

Image of the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center in the evening

Images of the arches outside of the Ferguson Center for the Arts

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Dorm Plants

Image of Lindsay Deyton’s dorm plant “Otis,” taken by Lindsay Deyton

Image of Katherine Zickel’s dorm plant “Ethel,” taken by Katherine Zickel

Image of Lindsay Deyton’s dorm plant “Mabel,” taken by Lindsay Deyton

Image of Katherine Zickel’s dorm plant “Lucy,” taken by Katherine Zickel

A&E

PAGE 8

The story within the frame

Story continued from cover SAMANTHA WOLFE SAMANTHA.WOLFE.24@CNU.EDU

person would view as mundane and give the viewer a look into an This year’s Photography entirely new world. From the Exhibition will be judged by a 2023 bustling streets of New York, to the CNU graduate alumni, Vance soft beauty of nature from angles Solseth, who is returning to judge we’ve never seen before. Playing the submissions. While each judge with light, angle and movement has different specifications and these artists freeze a moment in criteria they judge based off of, it is time sharing that second with the important to all judges that the viewer, showing them a bottled up pieces hold meaning. Every piece second that never would have been of photography that is entered into shared if it weren’t for them. the Photography Exhibition has a Each artist shows a glimmer of story to tell. Lina Recupero, a their humanity as they express freshman with a serious interest in themselves through a frozen photography, expressed that her second. The long wall aside the favorite thing about photography large window that greets you as you is, “Telling people’s stories in one enter the exhibition, lies several single photo, because even if it photographs that utilize a doesn’t look like it tells a story it technique known as painting with does.” light across the frame.

Every photograph that paints Christina Wark, a Freshman the walls of this exhibition tells a Photography major describes story, whether that story be of light painting with light as, “Paint with dancing across the camera lens, light is utilizing the bulb mode on a the beauty of nature from an angle digital camera to capture the lines most would never look twice at, or of light in the dark.” a busy market bustling with people The next group of nature with their own stories and own photographs, of seemingly motives. mundane parts of nature, that the The small yet impactful exhibit photographer captured at is organized by color, keeping the wonderful angles and perspectives. darker colors on the opening wall Along one of the Far walls lay a next to a very beautiful window small black framed section of black that opens the exhibition. These and white photos. People doing artists submit photographs that seemingly mundane tasks tell a capture moments that the average vintage aesthetic story of their own,

Photo taken by Samantha Wolfe/TheCaptainsLog

Photo taken by Samantha Wolfe/TheCaptainsLog

talking about their lives from within the black frame. Any human would normally not find beauty in the bones left on a train

“Each artist shows a glimmer of their humanity as they express themselves through a frozen second.”

track until the artist behind the photo entitled “Human Nature” captured its beauty and its story and encapsulated it within the brown frame. Another artist captures the glowing light that creates a magical portal look, in what most CNU students see as the regular walkway they see every day. Without this artist’s creativity, the beauty of this architecture would never have been seen.

The stillness and the beauty of a peaceful moment on the edge of a body of water that is shared from within a crisp perfect second frozen within the frame. From branches discarded by rees that no longer needed them, captured and displayed for their beauty that would have otherwise been forgotten, to the busy farmers market where a man, with his own stories and own loves makes a sale, a moment that is often looked past, not the center of a piece of art that no one can turn away from. These perfect moments, these seconds in time that are often looked over in the haste to get to our destination, these artis capture these seemingly simple images and make them into museums where everyone else saw loveless life.

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A review of “Wicked: Moana sails back Part One” into theaters

The film that defies expectations ALYSSA TILLMAN ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU

The movie adaptation of “Wicked” has been highly anticipated by my friends and I for years now. I knew with the casting of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo that this movie was going to be incredible, but it somehow managed to exceed my expectations.

Everyone has seen the interviews of Grande and Erivo crying over every question about their experience working on this film, and I understand why now. They were born to play Galinda and Elphaba, so I’m sure having this dream realized has been an incredibly emotional journey for them.

The opening song to the musical, “No One Mourns The Wicked,” was perfect. Grande’s vocals don’t disappoint and watching her grieve her best friend in the opening scene was beautiful. The next scene takes place at Shiz University, where Galinda and Elphaba first meet. Grande is quite funny in this role and conveys Galinda’s quirky aloofness brilliantly.

Elphaba’s first song, “The Wizard and I,” comes shortly after their first meeting. Something I found compelling about Erivo’s on-screen Elphaba was that you could really see it in her eyes how much she longs to be accepted. I knew she was an incredible singer, but I was impressed with her acting in this role. When she cried, I cried. When she was excited, so was I. My favorite song from the film, “What Is This Feeling,” was next.

Grande and Erivo’s voices mix so well, creating such a satisfying listening experience in the theater. Their discontent with each other was so funny to watch play out in this scene.

I was particularly a fan of the choreography for this song, which you have probably seen people recreating on TikTok. Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero is introduced shortly after. I, along with every other woman in the theater, immediately fell in love. Bailey is so charming and charismatic, so he plays Fiyero perfectly. I was surprised to learn that he can sing quite well.

“Dancing Through Life” was a big highlight for me. This is the scene where we see Galinda and Elphaba start to understand each other for the first time and become friends. It’s a

A review of “Moana 2” JANELLE PINEDA JANELLE.PINEDA.22@CNU.EDU

real tear jerker.

“Popular” is one of several songs from this film that I feel were better than the original. Grande is hilariously adorable and you can just tell that she is really in her element here. The next song is Elphaba’s “I’m Not That Girl” and it brought tears to my eyes. She realizes that she is in love with Fieyro, but can never be with him because he is in love with Galinda.

Elphaba and Galinda arrive in the Emerald City, which looks beautiful on screen. I remember feeling sad that the film was coming to an end soon, as act one ends after Elphaba meets the Wizard. “One Short Day” features Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth, the original Broadway Galinda and Elphaba. It was so cool to see them interact with Grande and Erivo on screen, and I thought it was nice that they were included.

The movie ends with Erivo singing “Defying Gravity.” This performance was so powerful that you could hear a pin drop in the theater. I wish that they hadn’t advertised her battle cry so much before the film released, as it wasn’t a shock to hear that hers was different from the original.

All in all, I was incredibly impressed by every decision made in this movie and I will be seeing it again. This film was just part one, so I’m excited to find out what they do with part two!

“Wicked Part One” movie poster, image from @ wickedmovie on Instagram

Moana is back! “Moana 2” proves that some sequels not only live up to their prequels, but also chart exciting new courses. The sequel builds on the first film’s foundation, delivering a richer, more emotionally moving narrative. Expanding on the original themes of self-discovery and cultural heritage, “Moana 2” offers a more mature narrative and an emotionally charged soundtrack that resonates deeply with audiences.

Moana’s journey continues with new depths, exploring themes of legacy, responsibility and cultural connection in a way that feels both majestic and personal. The character development is more refined and Moana’s growth into a leader is portrayed with complexity that adds layers to her already loved character.

With its stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling and its inspiring musical score, this highly anticipated followup brings audiences on another voyage through Motunui and the long-lost waters.

While the first film focused on self-discovery and restoring balance, the sequel dives into themes of unity, leadership and cultural heritage. No longer an eager adventurer, Moana faces fresh challenges that test her courage and compassion, making her journey both personal and universally meaningful.

Dwayne Johnson returns as the charismatic demigod Maui, whose humor and heart continue to provide balance to Moana’s commitment.

New characters each with distinct personalities and backgrounds enrich the story, reflecting a broader, more interconnected world. The music, written by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, delivers an emotional punch that exceeds the original soundtrack. New songs with a mix of catchy melodies with powerful lyrics that reflect Moana’s journey and the challenges she faces.

The film’s opening weekend was record-breaking grossing an incredible $221 million nationally over five days. “Moana 2” outshone competitors like “Wicked” and “Gladiator II.” This exceptional performance underscores the film’s universal appeal and Disney’s control

in the family film industry. The film secures its spot in box office history, setting a new standard for holiday releases and strengthening Disney’s storytelling skills.

“Moana’s growth into a leader is portrayed with complexity that adds layers to her already loved character.”

Together, these elements make “Moana 2” not only a worthy sequel but an amazing continuation of Moana’s story, proving that Disney’s magic continues to be alive and well.

The balance it strikes between honoring the original and adding new elements, ensuring its place as a modern day animated classic.

“Moana 2” movie poster, photo from @disney on Instagram

LIFESTYLE

PAGE 10

What’s your unhinged holiday quirk?

Astrological signs and their holiday quirks CLAIRE HALL CLAIRE.HALL22@CNU.EDU

Capricorn: Creating the world’s biggest snowball Capricorns are known for their work ethic and are often described as workaholics. They are driven to succeed and will not stop until they have achieved their goals. Capricorns are also willing to put in long hours in order to meet those goals. When I think of Capricorns, I like to imagine them trying to create the biggest snowball in the world. Rolling it around takes a whole lot of effort and it isn’t as easy as it seems. If the snow is too wet, the snowball will keep falling apart. However, due to the persevering nature of Capricorns, this task will be bearable as they are committed to something that they have started.

Aquarius: Wrapping non-square gifts Aquarians are very innovative and creative individuals that prefer to do things their own way. They are visionaries that are able to see problems in the world and make suggestions and solutions to solve them. They are always looking for ways to improve things as they refuse to give up on making things better. Aquarians are definitely the ones to have the patience and vision to wrap items that don’t wrap easily. With their sense of problem solving and creative outlet, leave it to them to be able to wrap your nonsquare gifts with ease.

Pisces: Putting up holiday decorations right after halloween One of the biggest traits with Pisces is their ability to adapt to various situations and environments. This is because they possess a strong intuitive sense that helps them navigate these complex emotional landscapes. They also thrive on spontaneity and love to be able to go with the flow. Pisces remind me of the individuals that put up their holiday decorations right after Halloween. Since

winter is right around the corner, Pisces want to make sure that they are adapting to the new holiday season and bring cheer to their surrounding neighbors. This spontaneous act brings them so much joy as they have the brightest house in the block!

Aries: Competitively skiing despite not having any skill No astrological sign is more bold than Aries. Aries are known for being ambitious and driven by their desires and passions. They thrive on competition, challenges and rivalry, stopping at nothing until they win.

Aries also possess high levels of energy and are full of vitality. Due to their ambitious nature, Aries seems like the type to want to competitively ski despite not having any skill. Their bold nature gives them the perfect opportunity to try something new, despite not being good at it yet.

Taurus: Falling asleep on the floor by the fireplace Taureans enjoy the much finer things in life, and are often drawn to things that give them sensory pleasure and joy. They also possess a down-to-earth nature which makes them a lot more approachable and relatable. Taureans are also often grounded by things such as love and beauty, which makes them see beauty in everything. Because of this, I can see Taureans falling asleep on the floor by the fireplace as they are often calm and enjoy soothing sensations such as the crackling of the fireplace.

adapt to the energy in the room.

T hey also possess st rong communication skills and have no problems talking to complete strangers. Geminis would be spending the holidays going to festivals, having a good time and not coming home until 4 a.m. The festive scene is perfect for Geminis to interact with others as well as showcase their lively personality.

At 4 a.m, they can revert back to their introverted nature and sleep the next day away.

Cancer: Baking cookies and causing a house fire Cancers are genuine homebodies who value relationships and prioritize making their loved ones feel comfortable and secure. They are empathetic, compassionate and take the time to listen to others.

This helps Cancers connect to individuals on an emotional level as they are devoted to the people that they love. Because of this caring nature, Cancers will most likely be baking cookies with their loved ones during the holiday season. However, they may forget to take the cookies out of the oven and accidentally start a house fire.

Leo: Hosting a winter party, inviting everyone including your doctor Leos thrive on being in the spotlight as they possess a confident attitude. They are known for being natural born leaders as they place emphasis on being big hearted and helping others. Not only this, but Leos are also incredibly loyal to their loved ones and are passionate about life. With this being said, Leos would be the ones to host a huge winter party and invite just about everyone, including their doctor and dentist.

Their passion for life and confident attitude would make them the perfect party hosters.

Vir go: Cou nt s all t he ornaments on the tree to make sure one isn’t missing Virgos are known for their

Gemini: Going out to a festival analytical nature and attention to and not coming home until 4am miniscule details. They tend to Geminis are incredibly lively and have no problem bringing excitement to the table. While they are both introverted and extroverted, Geminis can easily switch between the two to

fixate themselves on minor flaws which can become a big deal to them. Virgos are also known for being well-organized and have a highly tuned sense of style, quality and taste. I can definitely see Virgos counting all the ornaments on the

tree to make sure none of them have gotten lost. Since they also pay attention to great detail, it may take Virgos a little while to organize the ornaments perfectly on the tree. If an ornament gets broken, they will need time to process the grief.

Libra: Staring out of the window watching the snowfall for hours Libras strive for balance in all aspects in life and are often concerned with peace, justice and harmony. They have a deep appreciation for beauty, art and aesthetics as they serve as a creative outlet for them. Libras also have a very curious mind and are idealistic in love. Because Libras love beauty and aesthetics so much, I can see them staring out of the window and watching the snowfall for hours on end. They feel so connected to the snowfall and enjoy the snow’s beauty and it powers their curious mind.

Scorpio: Starting snowball fights and losing Scorpios are known for having strong emotions and intense personalities. They can be both passionate and mysterious at the same time and may feel things a lot deeper compared to the other astrological signs. Scorpios also have an incredibly strong will and determination and can be difficult to compromise with. Because of their intense nature and strong will, Scorpios will most likely be starting snowball fights with other individuals and then lose abruptly.

The loss might affect them deeply, but nonetheless they will most likely start another snowball fight and then win.

Sagittarius: Spending most of the holiday’s in a log cabin in the middle of nowhere Sagittarians are natural explorers who are constantly on the move, seeking out new experiences and knowledge. They are driven by a need for freedom and a desire to understand the world around them.

They also enjoy taking in new perspectives and are down to understand new ideas. With this, Sagiarrians have a curious mind that makes them want to learn more things. This makes them the perfect candidate for spending most of the holidays in a log cabin in the middle of nowhere where they can take things in from a different viewpoint

DECEMBER 5, 2024 | LIFESTYLE | CLAIRE HALL

Warm up your winter: Creative ways to stay busy indoors this winter CLAIRE HALL CLAIRE.HALL22@CNU.EDU

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Claire’s Corner Your go-to advice column for college CLAIRE HALL CLAIRE.HALL.22@CNU.EDU

How do I de-stress before final exam week?

With finals right around the corner, many individuals are stressed about what to expect this semester.

Sometimes it can be difficult to complete difficult assignments all while making sure to take care of yourself as well. Here I have listed a couple tips on how to de-stress with finals coming up right around the corner.

Holiday decorations, photo courtesy of Claire Hall / TheCaptainsLog

It’s that time of year again where it’s become too cold to do anything outside. During this harsh season, sometimes you have to get creative and come up with fun things to do inside. Here are some fun activities to do inside with your friends and family around you.

W h ite Eleph a nt Gi f t Exchange This season is all about giving, and what better way to celebrate this than hosting a white elephant gift exchange. Gather all your friends and family around as each person selects a number from a hat and unwraps a random gift until all the gifts are gone. This party game often comes with the goal of entertaining each other rather than acquiring a valuable item, which makes this a fun bonding activity to do for large groups.

Baking Wacky Cookies Pinterest will be your best friend when trying to find creative cookie recipes. They have many fun recipes, including pumpkin spice cheesecake snickerdoodles and buttercream chocolate chip cookies. Not only are you able to try interesting recipes but you also get the experience of baking with your friends, which is a great way to create fun memories.

In the end, you get to devour the creations you made, which is honestly a win-win.

Clay Crafts

I’ve seen people all over Instagram making all these cute and little animals from clay, which sounds like a fun activity to do with your friends.

All you have to do is purchase air dry clay from a craft store and search up inspiration pictures before you start.

I am honestly thinking about all the cute little holiday things you can create with the clay, which makes this the perfect holiday craft to do.

Not only that, but it can be very therapeutic to sit by the fire drinking hot cocoa and making these cute little clay creations.

Indoor Snowball Fight Believe it or not, but they actually sell indoor snowballs to use. My sister and I had bought a pack off of Amazon and they are basically a large version of pom-poms. The best part is that they don’t hurt when you throw them at someone and they are pretty hard to lose. If you enjoy snowball fights but hate being outside in the cold, this activity was made for you. There is also no mess, which is a plus. Nothing screams holiday cheer more than chucking fake snowballs at your friends or family.

The colder season doesn’t have to be boring anymore! I hope you try at least one of these activities with either your friends and family.

During times like this where activities are limited, it’s best to get your creative juices flowing by coming up with alternative activities to do indoors!

Eat with others, not alone I know that work starts to pile up the week before finals as we devote every second of our time into our academics. However, don’t be one of those individuals who tries to eat while doing homework. I am guilty of this too, and sometimes I don’t even finish my entire meal because I am so tuned in on the assignment.

You want to take this time to enjoy your meal and spend time catching up with friends instead of locking yourself away. When you start doing this more frequently, you start to feel much more lonely, as you haven’t seen many people in a while. So, just take the 30 minutes to eat and engage in some healthy conversation with your friends.

Wind down on coffee and drink alternatives It’s understandable that coffee really helps boost your energy and mood, but people go so far as to drink three cups of coffee a day, which can be incredibly unhealthy. Not only this, but people also drink coffee very late at night, which is also not good for you. Instead of relying on multiple cups of coffee a day, try drinking a single cup of coffee and then drinking tea the rest of the day. Not only does tea have less caffeine in it, but it also possesses many antiinflammatory properties that can help your body fight off illnesses and improve your mood and cognition.

Call family frequently

by yourself. That is why it is so important to call your family members frequently. Whenever I am very stressed out, I like to call my mom and ask for her advice on what to do. Honestly, my mom always offers the best advice for when I’m stressed or stuck. Just remember that despite you living your own life and being so far away from home, your family always wants to help you succeed. Calling them frequently will not be a bother to them.

Read, play games, or watch TV When de-stressing, make sure to do something therapeutic. This can be reading a good book, playing video or board games, or evening watching your favorite TV show. When doing something that you love, you will experience increased happiness, motivation and a sense of fulfillment which can lead to improved mental well being and higher productivity.

Do not burn yourself out by working 24/7. Make time for yourself.

I hope these tips help you conquer the stressors of final exam week.

This is a challenging time for everyone on campus as everyone’s stress levels are through the roof.

Just remember to persevere and be kind to yourself. You’ve got this! Have a good and productive week and I’ll see you next semester! Go Captains!

Photo courtesy of Claire Hall /

With the semester becoming so TheCaptainsLog hectic so quickly, sometimes it can be difficult to manage all that stress

OPINIONS

“The Captain’s Log is free to write anything it pleases and CNU fully respects the Freedom of the press.”— CNU Chancellor Paul Trible PAGE 12

Stop staring at your phone: Five things to do on a walk besides that

BREANNA DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU

rather self explanatory, unless you’re under the age of three and have not learned your ABC’s. If that’s the case, then how are you reading this?

Anyways, start by looking for something that starts with the letter A, like an apple. Then move to B, like a bird. Then C, like a cloud. You get the point?

Then continue all the way until you hit Z.

2: Listen to music

The Noland Trail near CNU, photo taken by Fiona Sullivan/TheCaptainsLog

This past Saturday I went to Sandy Bottom park near campus to eat my lunch. As I sat outside, I noticed the amount of families out and about walking the trails with each other. I thought, wow that’s so nice to see so many families enjoying each other’s company outside. However, after further consideration I noticed every single one of them was staring at their phone. Every. Single. One. No one spoke. No one even bothered to look up to see where they were going.

Absolutely appalling, what’s the point

of even visiting the park at that point?

Rotting your brain outside is no better than staying home to rot your brain.

Now you’re just also wasting gas to get here. That’s a double negative. In spite of these “nature loving” posers, here are five things to do on your walk to keep yourself away from your phone.

1: The ABC game The ABC game is an easy way to help keep your brain focused on something else besides your phone. The game is

The fall season is crippling most of us. Whether you had your October cannon event or not, the colder weather tends to put most people in a very pensive state of mind.

Put on your favorite playlist and reminisce on that person who ghosted you or the mean thing your mother said to you four Christmases ago.

Use that time to reflect. Maybe it could be a good reflection.

Think of all the things you’re now grateful for. Or maybe the changes you’ve experienced this year. Anything that keeps you from refreshing your exes Instagram feed when you’re supposed to be enjoying nature.

3: The color game Pick a color, any color. Preferably not green or brown, because that may make this game rather boring. Pick a col-

or and count how many times you see it. Maybe it’s pink flowers or trees with orange leaves.

If you’re with someone, make it a competition as to who can have the highest number.

4: Bird spotting Have you ever noticed how many different kinds of birds there are? There are a lot. Like seriously a ton. While you’re out walking, look to see how many different birds, or how many of the same birds, you can spot. This can also assist in your color game and ABC game.

5: Clean up Next time you’re out for a stroll, collect some good karma by strapping on some gloves and carrying a trash bag to help pick up trash you see on your way. Keeping the trails clean can protect the animals that inhabit it and the plants that grow there. Do yourself and your fellow nature loving posers a favor by keeping it beautiful and healthy.

Get outside, get some fresh air and do not defeat the whole purpose of your walk by staring at your phone.

D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 4 | O P I N I O N | K AT H E R I N E Z I C K E L | PA G E 1 3

“Call me a Grinch” How do students

The top three most overrated de-stress for finals? holiday activities BREANNA DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU

“Watching a ‘White Chirstmas’ on repeat.”

“Nap.”

Holiday decor, from Unsplash

Call me a grinch, but something about this holiday season is making me want to go full operation green. Here are three things that if anyone suggests doing to me, I’ll light a small tree on fire (in a safe enclosed area, obviously).

1: Making Gingerbread Houses They’re messy and wasteful.

Gingerbread houses are a cute idea in theory, but the hassle in dealing with them is so unbelievably not worth it. That gross conglomeration of sugar you icingglued together is going to sit on your counter for weeks until it is rock solid and could be donated to the United States military for combative use. Nothing makes me seethe with white hot unbridled rage more than trying to hold the stupid gingerbread walls together with sticky icing covered fingers. That fun bonding time will soon turn into someone, likely myself, throwing the failed creation into the nearest wall.

2: Caroling Does anyone even do this anymore? I would pay someone to not show up on my doorstep and off-key sing some rendition of an overplayed holiday song. Better yet, I would pay to not have to do that myself. The social anxiety and awkwardness of ringing a random person’s doorbell to berate their ear drums with our

lack of musical talents sounds like one of the less desirable ways to spend my evening.

“Re-binge ‘Harry Potter’ (it’s that time of year)!”

3: Watching “The Polar Express” Look, I love Tom Hanks. A die hard fan of his, truly. My opinions on this film have nothing to do with Mr. Hanks. However, that film is the most uncanny and uncomfortable thing to sit through. Please I will literally sit through watching anything else. That’s an exaggeration, but nothing screams uncanny like “The Polar Express.”

I know this makes me sound like a total scrooge, and possibly I am, but I can think of better ways to spend the holidays.

“ I would pay someone to not show up on my doorstep and off-key sing some rendition of an overplayed holiday song.”

“Chatting with friends!”

“Locking in on my studies.”

“Crying.”

“Making paper snowflakes helps me to unwind (plus it makes for some aweome decorations.”

D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 4 | PA G E 1 4

Student poetry and short story submissions Email clog@cnu.edu to be featured in the paper

“Next Semester’s Classes”

By Tori A.B

Scroll Scroll Click Load What was that class again?

Type Type Cut Paste I picked it out with my friends Class Saved Yawn Hurray Anxiety now at an end

“Almost Free”

Audrey Johns audrey.johns.23@cnu.edu

D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 4 | PA G E 1 5

Sudoku

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Answers will be posted on our Instagram Fill in the puzzle@cnucaptainslog! so that every row across, every column down and every 9 by 9 box contains the numbers 1 to 9.

THE CAPTAIN’S LOG is the official student newspaper of Christopher Newport University. It is a public forum, which is published on Thursdays throughout the academic year.

THE EDITORS welcome letters from readers. Editors reserve the right to edit for length and AP style, as well as refuse publication.

An email with a “.doc” attachment is perferable.

JOIN THE STAFF The Captain’s Log is always open to students who are interested in writing, photography, editing or graphic design.

WANT TO ADVERTISE? Circulation inquiries, advertising rates and policies are available upon request via email at clog@ cnu.edu or margaret.gammons.21@cnu.edu

Contact Us General Inquiries clog@cnu.edu

Lifestyle Editor claire.hall.22@cnu.edu

INSTAGRAM @cnucaptainslog

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Editor-in-Chief Photography Editor katherine.zickel.22@cnu.edu amanda.eacho.22@cnu.edu News Editor Business Manager breanna.dorrian.23@cnu.edu margaret.gammons.21@cnu.edu Sports Editor Digital Media Manager trajan.greenwell.21@cnu.edu lindsay.deyton.22@cnu.edu A&E Editor alyssa.tillman.22@cnu.edu

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D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 4 | PA G E 1 6

“We’ll Be CNU Around Campus”

We'll Be CNU Around Campus ACROSS 1 The first step of a turn in Magic: The Gathering 6 Jumped 11 ER Lifelines 14 Polite refusal 15 Dried poblano 16 At once 17 Where you might find a speaker at CNU 19 ___-fi 20 The Raven poet 21 A bee's food 23 CNU's second-oldest residence hall 28 Love, in Italian 29 Tenants contract 30 Fools 31 ___ Vegas 32 Lion's hair 36 One cent 37 Funny acronym 38 Temperamental types 39 Pretentious person 40 Might bring orange slices to the soccer game 41 Mystical 42 Overhead 44 Portugal's neighbor 45 An admiral who is now a captain 49 Go back on a deal 50 Little rascal 51 Perform (in) 52 Home of CNU's largest fountain 59 Pirate's call

60 Metal bar 61 Dog-_____ 62 Secret Agent 63 Trousers 64 Juliet's beloved DOWN 1 German conjunction 2 "There's ___ in team" 3 Airport Security Org. 4 Objective 5 Possessions 6 PowerPoint pointer 7 Tolkien's talking trees 8 One or Eleven, in Blackjack 9 Ferb's counterpart 10 Complexion aids 11 The 'gram 12 Outspoken 13 Ice cream pattern 18 They smell 22 My emo kind of Romance 23 Will Smith's son 24 _____ Acids 25 Long-term goal of NASA's Artemis program 26 Bad sign 27 Meat from a calf 30 Computer addresses, for short 33 To no ___ (in vain) 34 Mary Poppins, for one

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46 Summarize 47 Way in 48 Begins to fall 53 Game review website 54 Droid 55 Language akin to Thai 56 The most common type of wrestling 57 Last letter of the alphabet 58 Much ___ About Nothing

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Crossword created

by Patrick Wood, patrick.wood.21@cnu. edu

Answers will be posted on our Instagram @cnucaptainslog!