The Captain’s Log
CNU welcomes home General Charles Q Brown
General visits former high school and discusses leadership skills
BREANNA DORRIAN
BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
Christopher Newport University welcomed General Charles Q Brown Jr to campus on October 3. General Brown Jr was a
graduate of Ferguson High School, now formally known as Ferguson Center for the Arts, serving this visit as an essential ‘homecoming’ for him.
General Brown Jr serves as the 21st Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, principal military advisor to the President, Secretary of
Defense, National Security Council and is the nation’s highest ranking military office.
When the general initially arrived at CNU, he was escorted through the halls of his former high school and made various comments reflecting on his time there before it became the home of CNU’s fine arts depart-
ment.
The general also held a private speech with Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) student cadets on various topics, primarily including leadership skills and other pieces of advice.
A faux ‘fireside’ chat was held with the general alongside President Bill Kelly inside Diamonstein Concert Hall later that evening. President Leadership Program (PLP) students served as moderators to the discussion. In attendance were PLP students, various dignitaries, members of the U.S. military and their families, congressman Bobby Scott, former high school graduates of Ferguson High School and other members of the public.
The primary focus of the discussion centered around group dynamics and initiatives on how to lead change.
Also in attendance were members of the Tuskegee Airmen, also known as the ‘Red Tails,’ who donned bright red jackets. One of which being Sergeant Thomas Newton, a member of the 99th Squadron. The general was named an honorary member of the Tuskegee Airmen in August of 2021.
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CNU welcomes home General Charles Q Brown Jr General visits former high school and discusses leadership skills
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BREANNA DORRIAN
BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
One of the student moderators asked the general about his most valuable takeaways from the legacy of the Red Tails. He responded by stating that he looks to the Red Tails as models of inspiration, prompting him to focus on how “we inspire the next generation.”
“You never know who you are going to impact with the work that you do,” he said.
The general was also asked about how one leads a team that has a wide range of diversity and how one is meant to unify the group in a high stakes environment. He responded by stating he valued the different perspectives of the group and set a “good vision.”
“It’s important to value the voices in that organization,” the general said.
Other questions from the moderators surrounded topics such as balancing leadership and fellowship, handling conflicting opinions in time sensitive situations and how to motivate people into embracing change.
Following the primary discussion, it was opened up for members of the audience to ask the general questions. One student asked about the growing conflict between China and Taiwan and what the U.S. plans to do in response. The general explained that the conflict would not just
be catastrophic for those directly involved, but it would also greatly impact lots of other nations on an economic security level.
“We don’t want to go into conflict, but we want to be prepared,” he said.
While departing the general’s ‘fireside chat’,
two
General Charles Q Brown Jr. discusses five key principles of advice to CNU ROTC cadets in private meeting on Oct. 3, Photo by Bre Dorrian/TheCaptain’sLog
‘Free Palestine’ protesters carrying signs stood outside of the Diamonstein Concert Hall.
International Affairs Update:
Israel-Hamas Violence in Gaza continues as Oct. 7 marked one year since the Israel-Hamas attacks. NPR reported that several thousands have been killed, several thousands more injured and roughly a million Lebanese civilians have been displaced.
Russia/Ukraine
On Oct. 7, AP News reported a major oil terminal in Crimea was struck by Ukraine’s military on Monday. This oil hub has been a large contributor of fuel for Russia throughout the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the war is in a pivotal key phase. Both Russia and Ukraine are experiencing financial strains.
Mayor beheaded in southern Mexico
CBS News reported on Oct. 7, that Chilpancingo mayor Ale-
jandro Arcos was beheaded just a few days after taking office. This has been one of “the latest in a series of attacks on politicians in the violenceplagued Latin American country.” The murder also followed shortly after the murder of another city official, Francisco Tapia.
Escalating violence in Haiti
CNN reported on Oct. 4 that at least 70 people were killed by members of the Gran Grif gang in Haiti. The attack injured at least 16 people, as well as at least 45 houses and 34 vehicles were set on fire. CNN also reported that “The International Organization for Migration said more than 6,000 people had been displaced by the violence.” The Universal Declaration of Human Rights stated that “at least 3,661 people have been killed since January this year” from gang violence.
VP of Student Affairs addresses YikYaK
Several students left feeling unsafe and unwelcome
BREANNA DORRIAN
BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
On Oct. 4, Vice President of Student Affairs Kevin Hughes at Christopher Newport University released an email to CNU students entitled ‘thoughts to share’ discussing controversy over posts made to YikYak.
The application in question is used as an anonymous forum where students can make posts and comments. Despite its nature of appearing anonymous, the app requires a valid CNU email to join the page.
Within the email, Hughes relayed that several students have brought to his attention that a number of racist and hurtful posts were made over the previous weekend.
Threats and comments “based on their race, gender, abilities and similar distinctive characteristics” have been made on numerous occasions, causing a portion of the student body to feel “unsafe” and “uncomfortable.”
Hughes stated that he is not a fan of the app, nor does he believe that the app often represents its intentions of being a forum to “unite communities,” nor does it serve as a “place to be equal.”
Hughes referenced the honor code in which each student has signed, stating that a CNU student will uphold a standard of respect for their fellow peers.
“That commitment means we have to do something about it when we see behavior or actions that run afoul of respecting and trusting each other,” he said.
“From where I sit, respect and mutual trust
is about basic human decency. Every person, whether a part of this community or not, has value and worth. Each person brings perspectives and experiences that offer different insights and different ways of knowing and understanding the world,” Hughes said in the email. “There’s a beauty in all of that, and as an institution of higher learning, we want and need to explore those pathways to better make sense of the world.”
He also stated that while there is no expectation for CNU students to stop using the app, they are encouraged to do so.
“None of us are perfect, but let’s commit to being better,” he said.
Countdown to November: Polling results, vice presidential debate and more
As of Oct. 8, ABC’s Project FiveThirtyEight (538) reported that democratic party nominee and vice president Kamala Harris leads in the polls by 0.7% at 48.0%, however this is a drop in contrast to previous polling. 538 also reported that former president and republican party nominee Donald Trump sits at 47.3% in the national polls.
The vice presidential debate was held Tuesday, Oct. 1 in New York. CBS News reported that overall viewers felt the debate was both positive and evenly matched. 42% of viewers reported they felt that republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance won, whereas 41% of viewers reported they felt that democratic vice presidential nominee Tim Walz won the debate. Roughly 17% of respondents to CBS News stated they felt it was overall a tie.
CNN reported on Oct. 8 that Trump supporters are calling for punishment from the federal government to consulting company Deloitte due to an employee leaking private messages
from Vance. CNN reported that Deloitte is a recent example of companies targeted by “former President Donald Trump or those in his orbit.” Trump’s oldest son Donald Trump Jr made a variety of comments on his X account calling Deloitte out for the leaked messages.
“An executive at @Deloitte named Kevin Gallagher decided to interfere in the election & leak private convos with JD Vance to help Kamala Harris,” Trump Jr said in his post.
In the same post, Trump Jr also called out the $2 billion Deloitte receives in government contracting and suggested the GOP should stop the taxpayer funding the company receives.
NPR reported on Oct. 8 that Harris has conducted a series of interviews to reach young new voters in a ‘media blitz’. One of which included an appearance on Alex Cooper’s podcast Call Her Daddy, which has sparked controversy with some voters. The podcast is known for its discussions on intimate relationships. A Harris campaign official stated that the appearance served as an opportu-
nity to “reach voters where they are.” One of the main focuses of the discussion centered around abortion access.
For more information on how to register to vote and other registration deadlines, visit the official website of the Virginia Department of Elections, or scan the QR code below.
BREANNA DORRIAN BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
The post feature on the app YikYak. Photo by Bre Dorrian/TheCaptain’sLog
Reds hire Terry Francona
An unexpected hire
TREY GREENWELL TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU
The Cincinnati Reds have hired Terry Francona to be their new manager.
In an announcement given by the Reds on Friday, it was announced that Francona had agreed to a three-year contract with a club option for a fourth. This was an announcement that shocked both Reds and baseball fans.
At the end of last season, Francona had retired from managing after the Guardians finished with a 76-86 record. This was largely due to health concerns that led to questions regarding his future in the sport. When Francona announced his decision to step down as the Guardians manager, he believed it would be unlikely for him to manage again.
However, Francona has decided to return as he inherits a Reds team that is coming off of an injury-plagued campaign that saw them finish 77-85 and record a fourth place finish in the National
TREY GREENWELL TRAJAN.GREENWELL.21@CNU.EDU
Three-time World Series Champion
Pete Rose died in Las Vegas, Nevada earlier this week.
Last Monday, the death was confirmed by a medical examiner after Rose was found by a family member. Rose died of natural causes a day after appearing at an autograph show in Nashville with former teammates of the well-known “Big Red Machine” era Tony Perez, George Foster, and Dave Concepcion.
Rose was an integral part of those teams. Known as “Charlie Hustle,” Rose was known for his speed on the bases. He was the leadoff man for most of the Reds teams
“When Francona announced his decision to step down as the Guardians manager, he believed it would be unlikely for him to manage again.”
League Central. This led to the firing of former manager David Bell, who had been handed a contract extension after finishing 82-80 the previous year. With a young core led by shortstop Elly De La Cruz, the Reds hope to return to playoff contention in the near future.
Francona’s ability to both build on promising young cores and turn around franchises quickly is likely what convinced the Reds to hire him. He helped break the 86-year Curse of the Bambino championship drought in Boston by winning the World Series in 2004 as well as advance to another one in 2007. Throughout Francona’s tenure in Boston, he reached the playoffs five times during his eight seasons with the team. In his time with the Guardians, he recorded four American League Central division titles and led the Guardians to the 2016 World Series. The Reds will be hoping for similar success with Francona at the helm as the team looks to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Pete Rose dies at 83
A sad day for baseball
“Known as ‘Charlie Hustle,’ Rose was known for his speed on the bases.”
he was on and played a key role in their success. This success included three World Series wins, one of which Rose was named World Series MVP in. Rose was also named National League MVP in 1973 and holds several records such as the most games played and the National League record for the longest
hitting streak which stands at 44.
However, the most impressive record Rose holds in baseball is his 4,256 hits. This is an impressive record as several successful MLB players have not come close to being within 500 hits of that record.
In an era where the home run has become
more prominent, one can only be amazed at how Rose’s record has stood for this long. Rose’s consistency was the key to the hits record. In his 24 seasons as a player, Rose had 200 hits or more 10 times and more than 180 hits on four other occasions. Rose also led the league in hits seven times, allowing him to log a career batting average of .303. While many will debate Rose’s eligibility for the Baseball Hall of Fame, one cannot deny how successful he was as a player. Rose’s 24-year career is the standard that every baseball player aspires to have, and it will continue to be that way for a very long time.
Terry Francona looks on before a game. Terry Francona by Erik Drost is licensed under the CC By Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.
Pete Rose at bat during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Pete Rose at bat by Jvh33 is licensed under the CC By Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.
Davante Adams requests trade
A seismic move is on the horizon
Las Vegas Raiders star wide receiver Davante Adams has requested a trade from the team.
The request occurred last week, just a few days after the Raiders 20-16 victory over the Cleveland Browns. While Adams had been denying rumors of his frustrations with the team over the past year, he confirmed them by publicly deciding he would like a change of scenery.
So far, trade talks have not been prominent as Adams is currently recovering from a hamstring injury. However, it does not mean that teams have not begun inquiring about what it would take to land the six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver.
The favorite to land Adams is the New York Jets as he would be reuniting with future hall of famer and former quarterback Aaron Rodgers. While both
Davante Adams as a Green Bay Packer during 2014 training camp. Davante Adams
Rodgers and Adams have hinted at the idea of teaming up in New York, compensation is the biggest obstacle as the Jets may not want to meet the Raiders asking price of a second-round pick. Instead, they might be willing to offer the Raiders one of their two third and sixthround picks.
The other team that Adams would like to play for is the New Orleans Saints as he would be reteaming with his former Fresno State and Raiders teammate Derek Carr. While the two did get to play together in Las Vegas, the pairing only lasted one season as Carr was promptly released after a disap-
pointing campaign that saw the team finish 6-11.
Adams salary for the season is at $13.5 million, making a trade tough to facilitate. While the salary goes down by $1 million after each week, most teams do not have enough cap space to make a trade work. While the Jets have the necessary cap space to make a trade work, the Raiders will likely need to assure franchises that they are willing to pay part of Adams salary in order to start a bidding war. Making this clear could also increase the chances that the Raiders receive additional draft picks beyond the one secondrounder the team has asked for in exchange for Adams. With the trade deadline looming, teams will begin making offers for Adams soon.
“While Adams had been denying rumors of his frustrations with the team over the past year, he confirmed them by publicly deciding he would like a change of scenery.”
Here’s What You Missed!
1) Texas have returned to the number 1 spot in the AP Top 25 following Alabama’s loss to Vanderbilt.
2) Los Angeles Clippers forward PJ Tucker will be away from the team for the forseeable future.
3) New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers was arrested on Saturday in Braintree, Massachusetts.
4) Game two of the National League Division Series was delayed for seven minutes as Dodgers fans threw baseballs at Padres players. TREY GREENWELL
Coming soon in CNU Sports: *Games listed are happening at CNU
October 12th:
*Men’s Football
CNU v. Dickinson College
Location: Newport News, VA
Time: 1:00 PM
Women’s Soccer
CNU v. University of Mary Washington
Location: Fredericksburg, VA
Time: 1:00 PM
Men’s Soccer
CNU v. University of Mary Washington
Location: Fredericksburg, VA Time: 3:00 PM
October 16th:
Women’s Field Hockey
CNU v. Salisbury University
Location: Salisbury, MD
Time: 4:00 PM
Women’s Volleyball
CNU v. Washington and Lee
Location: Lexington, VA Time: 6:00 PM
To look at events off campus and for future weeks, visit cnusports.com
by Kyle Engman is licensed under the CC By Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.
Theatre CNU’s Performance
of Jesus Christ Superstar
All photos taken by Amanda Eacho
Jimmy Grimes (Jesus) performing “The Crucifixion”
The cast of Jesus Christ Superstar performing “The Last Supper”
Emma Brooks (Mary) performing “Everything’s AlrightReprise”
Ireland Dibacco (Judas), Brett Conway (Caiaphas), and Kylee Bates (Annas) performing “Damned For All Time/Blood Money”
Jimmy Grimes (Jesus) and Sydney Morefield (Pilate) performing “Trial Before Pilate”
Erik Fraga (Simon) and ensemble performing “Simon Zeolotes/ Poor Jerusalem”
Ireland Dibacco (Judas) and ensemble performing “Overture”
Ensemble performing “The Temple”
Ensemble performing “Hosanna”
Ethan Craze (King Herod) and ensemble performing “King Herod’s Song (Try It and See)”
The bold storytelling of Jesus Christ Superstar
Reimagining faith through music and theater
ALYSSA TILLMAN
ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU
Experience the timeless tale of Jesus Christ Superstar like never before! This electrifying rock opera breathes new life into the last weeks of Jesus’ life, blending powerful music with thought-provoking storytelling. With unforgettable songs, stunning visuals, and a dynamic cast, the show invites you to explore themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity.
The 1970 Broadway rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar is roughly based on the Gospels of the New Testament, recounting the story of Jesus during the final days before his crucifixion. With the use of 1970s slang, rock music, and singing, the story really explores the relationships between friends and enemies alike. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, the work interprets the psychology of Jesus and other characters, with much of the plot centered on Judas, who is dissatisfied with the direction in which Jesus is steering his disciples.
Contemporary attitudes, sensibilities and slang pervade the rock opera’s lyrics, and ironic allusions to modern life are scattered throughout the depiction of political events.
Opening weekend was a success, with the entire cast giving an unforgettable performance. Emma Brooks as Mary, Jimmy Grimes as Jesus and Ireland Dibacco as Judas are the fantastic leads of this show and they absolutely killed it. Their vocal performances along with the rest of the cast are absolutely incredible and the dance breaks throughout the show are impressive.
The show is both comedic and dramatic, including histrionic despair, musical
Everyone in the audience was dancing, laughing, and cheering in their seats throughout the entire performance. Jesus Christ Superstar has something for everyone.
tension, and lyrical melodrama. The trial that follows Jesus throwing out the traders from the temple is full of musical tension that keeps the audience captivated.
Everyone in the audience was dancing, laughing, and cheering in their seats throughout the entire performance. Jesus Christ Superstar has something for everyone. Exploring themes of fame, revolution and humility, this production shows how inspiring movements can turn into idol worship. With the use of 1970s slang, rock music, and singing, the story really explores the relationships between friends and enemies alike.
So gather your friends and go see Jesus Christ Superstar Oct. 9-11 at 7:30 p.m. Student tickets are free and the show is right here on campus in the Peebles Theater. Tickets can be found at https:// tickets.fergusoncenter.org/4195 or picked up in the ticket office in the Ferguson Center between 11-3 pm. You don’t want to miss it!
Joker: Folie à Deux A spoiler-free review
ALYSSA TILLMAN ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU
Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker: Folie à Deux continues Arthur Fleck’s story as he deals with the consequences of murdering several people from the first film, such as celebrity host Murray Franklin and his co-worker and bully, Randall.
Phillips’ sequel Joker: Folie à Deux fell well behind expectations in its box office debut with a domestic opening of $37.8 million. The Hollywood Reporter reports that the film is the first Hollywood comic book movie in history to earn a D CinemaScore from audiences.
Phillips’ R-rated sequel — which made its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival — is a genre-busting, music-infused film that strays outside of the comfort zone of the typical comic book fan. Many have questioned why the studio’s marketing materials steered clear of highlighting the film’s numerous musical sequences, just as they did when selling Wonka, or how Paramount didn’t market Mean Girls as a musical.
Joker: Folie à Deux was not marketed as a musical because it technically is not one. Much of the film consists of fantasy musical numbers starring the couple, who meet while Arthur is in Arkham Asylum, awaiting trial for his crimes from the first movie. Only these two characters sing, versus a traditional musical, which usually has scores of people participating in the numbers.
The film begins with a Looney Tunes-inspired cartoon short titled “Me and My Shadow,” starring Arthur Fleck (Joaquin Phoenix) as the Joker. The cartoon serves as a reminder to viewers that Arthur is still struggling to figure out if his Joker persona can be contained or not. The movie then shifts to Arkham Asylum where viewers get to see Arthur’s daily routine in prison, where Arthur meets Lady Gaga’s Harleen “Lee” Quinzel and there is an instant spark between the two would-be lovers.
Throughout Joker 2, Arthur experiences moments of catharsis where he simply immerses himself in musicalinspired numbers in his mind and sings what he is feeling, mostly centered around his bond with Lee. Some of the songs featured in the movie include covers of classics like “Get Happy,” “For Once In My Life,” and “That’s Life.”
The film’s musical element is tasteful, but with most of Lady Gaga’s screen time being spent singing, it was hard to care much about her character. Since the film is not a musical, the numbers weren’t used to move the plot forward or give much insight into the character’s lives. This makes the musical elements unmoving and Lady Gaga’s Harley Quinn an overall less exciting version of the character.
It’s admirable to see film makers defy genre expectations, and it’s clear that Lady Gaga and Phoenix put a lot of work into their performances. The cinematography also picks up where the narrative lacks.
Joker: Folie à Deux poster. Image from @wbpictures on Instagram
Jimmy Grimes (Jesus) and ensemble performing “The Last Supper,” Photo by Amanda Eacho/TheCaptain’sLog
10 niche Letterboxd lists
Find your next watch
ALYSSA TILLMAN
ALYSSA.TILLMAN.22@CNU.EDU
1. “Mother and daughter having mad beef”
These are movies that daughters absolutely should or absolutely should never watch with their moms. Films featured in this list include Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird, Mark Waters’ Freaky Friday and Brian De Palma’s Carrie.
2. “Ryan gosling ranked by his haircut”
If you’re a big Ryan Gosling fan and want to watch the movie featuring his best haircut, look no further than this list. Claiming the number one spot on this list is Only God Forgives, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn. Adam McKay’s The Big Short takes the last spot.
3. “Movies I Feel Like Would Make A Perfect Double Bill With Taylor Swift’s All Too Well Short Film”
Looking for a second film to watch for your “All Too Well” double feature?
This list is full of tragic romantic classics, featuring films such as Joe Wright’s Pride & Prejudice and Greta Gerwig’s Little Women. These movies also have the same autumn aesthetic.
4. “Movies That Will Make You Say “What the F***” At Least 3 Times”
Movies that are so weird, weird to the point where you audibly react multiple times. It doesn’t matter if it’s a good weird or a bad weird, it’s just weird for a very specific reason. Films featured in this list include Ari Aster’s Midsommar, Emerald Fenner’s Saltburn and Jordan Peele’s Nope.
5. “Every Film featuring an SNL Alum”
This list is the complete collective filmography of all 163 featured Saturday Night Live cast members of past and present. To be included, the cast member had to have been listed as a cast member in the opening credits of at least one episode. There are a lot of films on this list, featuring former SNL cast members like Tina Fey, Will Ferrell, Bill Hader and Maya Rudolph.
6. “Passed The Bechdal Test” The Bechdal Test is a way of evaluating whether or not a film portrays women in a way that is characterized by gender stereotyping. To pass the Bechdel test a work must feature at least two women
who talk to each other about something other than a man. Films in this list include Jason Moore’s Pitch Perfect and Kenny Ortega’s High School Musical 3.
7. Movie references made in NBC’s Community
This list includes every movie that has been mentioned, referenced, quoted or parodied on NBC’s “Community”. Fan favorite character Abed studies film at community college and prefers to communicate using movie references.
8. “Good For Her Cinematic Universe”
Is there really anything better than thinking “good for her” while a woman achieves her dreams, fights back against her adversaries, or receives an end to her story that is satisfying? Films in this list include Michael Lehmann’s Heathers and Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally….
9. “My Dad Would Love That” Does your dad stand in front of the television with his arms crossed while you’re watching something? It’s hard to predict what films will captivate our dads, but this list gives a good start. Movies from the Star Wars and Creed franchises are included in this list, as well as newer movies like Dune.
10. “Movies where there are no women”
A big switch from the Bechdal Test list, this list is full of films where there are no female actors or female actors are on screen for less than 15 minutes total, their characters don’t have names and don’t have significant dialogue. There are a lot of movies on this list, including David Mickey Evans’ The Sandlot and Peter Brook’s Lord of the Flies.
Letterboxd logo. Image from Wikimedia Commons
The sudden rise of a Midwest Princess
How Chappell Roan became an “overnight”
success
MICHALAH BECK
MICHALAH.BECK.22@CNU.EDU
The first time I heard of Chappell Roan was a random post on my Instagram explore page. The cover photo to her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess appeared on my screen and I was intrigued. I clicked on the Instagram page and scrolled through the colorful photos from this artist unknown to me. Immediately, I fell in awe of her aesthetic and colorful costumes. Putting my fifteen minutes of Instagram-stalking away, I rediscovered her music months later with a song (which unbeknownst to me, even now would never leave my head) titled “Good Luck, Babe!”
Now, many of her songs, specifically “HOT TO GO!”, “Good Luck, Babe!” and “Red Wine Supernova” have achieved over 100 million streams on Spotify. Her music has even been featured in quick 30-second TikTok videos for Democratic presidential candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign, specifically “Femininomenon”. She’s played for sold-out festivals and even broke Lollapalooza’s attendance record this past August, but how did Chappell Roan go from underground artist to pop sensation over a handful of months?
Deemed an “overnight success”, many people comment on Chappell Roan’s vocal ability and stage presence, with most questioning her sudden rise to fame. Chappell Roan was born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz in a small town in rural Missouri. Her home state, which she has written plenty of nods to in her music, serves as a main point of her identity. Roan directs the difficulty of growing up as a queer person in a small, rural town, and combines her feelings and musical talent into songwriting and performance.
Through countless interviews, Roan has expressed how she wants to create music she felt she needed as a queer person from the rural Midwest. She was signed to Atlantic Records when she was 17 but was dropped some time later after her first EP did not achieve many sales. Presently, she is signed with Island Records, where she released her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, and went on tour as an opener for Olivia Rodrigo.
Roan’s sudden success and fame has brought her plenty of new fans,
and with that, an abundance of unwelcome attention. Roan took to Instagram on Aug. 23, 2024, asking for more privacy and respect as a human being. In this emotional post she says, “I feel more love than I ever have in my life. I feel the most unsafe I have ever felt in my life.”
Her so-called “overnight” success has been a ten-year-long “night”, and Chappell Roan’s success displays a strong message of continuing with your passion, even if you’re knocked down over again.
Chappell Roan’s success displays a strong message of continuing with your passion, even if you’re knocked down over again.
Chappell Roan onstage. Image from Wikimedia Commons
LIFESTYLE Festivities in fall:
Six fun activities to do this season
KATHERINE ZICKEL
KATHERINE.ZICKEL.22@CNU.EDU
The leaves are turning colors, the air is getting crisp, and fall break starts this weekend. One can’t think of a better time to take a break from the stresses of college and enjoy the season. Get into the spirit of Halloween with an outing to a local event, or have a night in and with a more relaxing vibe. Here’s a compilation of different kinds of fall activities you can participate in without breaking the bank.
Pumpkin patch
Pumpkin patches aren’t just reserved for elementary school field trips. There’s many different activities to participate in depending on where you go. A majority of all farms have hayrides, corn mazes and of course pumpkins to pick. If you’re local, try College Run Farms in Surry for their homemade pumpkin ice cream as an additional treat. Going with friends and family always heightens the experience and kicks off the fall season.
Halloween-themed night
Looking for more of a relaxing night in? Invite your friends over to your dorm room and have a watch party with all your favorite halloween themed snacks. Bring fun themed crafts to do as well, such as painting, pumpkin carving (if you want to get messy) and crocheting as you relax in front of the TV to whatever movies you and your friends agree upon.
Boo Baskets
You don’t have to have a significant other to participate in this new trend! Get a bunch of friends or family members together, have an outing to a store like Target or Walmart, and pick up fun Halloween themed items to put inside a basket. I think it’s a super fun idea to surprise your friends in the spirit of the holiday season, and you don’t have to go crazy with the price, set a budget that works for everyone!
Restaurant deals
Want to go out with your friends on a budget? Chain restaurants such
as BJ’s and Chili’s currently have fun dinner deals to get into the Halloween spirit. For $13.99 at BJ’s, you can pick from eight different entree items and get a Pizookie for dessert, which now includes their “Spookie Pizookie,” a Cookies ‘N’ Cream cookie with vanilla ice cream and topped with Oreo crumbs and Halloween sprinkles. For six dollars, Chili’s currently has a Witches Brew Margarita for the month of Oct. that tastes like green apple.
Apple picking
Another popular activity to do during fall is going apple picking. My favorite place is Carter mountain in Charlottesville, but there’s other local places if driving three hours is a lot. If you pick enough apples, try making apple pie, applesauce or other sweet treats with the ones you don’t eat. Carter mountain also has delicious apple cider donuts, homemade jams and other fall flavor foods to buy when you go.
Howl O’scream
Staying local? Busch Gardens Howl O’scream in Williamsburg is always a fun time, especially if you enjoy haunted houses and getting spooked by people in costumes. Buy a day pass and take your friends for a fun night of eating sweet treats, going on rides and visiting all the haunted houses, which always rotate every year. Howl O’scream is open until Nov. 3rd.
Fall in love with movies:
Staff writer shares five good movies to watch in the fall
BREANNA DORRIAN
BREANNA.DORRIAN.23@CNU.EDU
The fall season is already here and what better way to celebrate than to dive into some amazing movies to watch to get you more into the fall spirit. So make sure you grab your pumpkin pjs, a cup of hot cocoa, and dive back into the past with my top five movie picks!
Good Will Hunting
Who doesn’t love Robin Williams? This 1997 romantic drama follows a youthful janitor, Will Hunting, at MIT with an astoundingly genius IQ level. When a professor discovers talents, he decides to help Will reach his full potential. However, in order to keep him out of trouble and get his life back on track, Will must see a therapist.
Dead Poets Society
This 1989 dramatic comedy starring Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke, Robert Sean Leonard and others is the perfect film to curl up onto your couch late at night with a cozy blanket. This film tells the story of a group of young men at an all-boys private school as they navigate friendship, love, parental pressures and self-discovery through poetry.
Heathers
Feeling a bit nostalgic of
high school? Maybe you’re not quite ready for gory, scary movies just yet. This timely classic follows a slightly deranged couple, Veronica and J.D, as they commit a series of murders to rid their school of all the “cliques” that plague it. When Veronica realizes what’s really going on, she must stop J.D. before it’s too late.
Practical Magic
It’s not quite Halloween, but it’s never too early to start wishing it was. The curse placed over the Owens sisters, Sally and Gilly, and their family has haunted them for decades. However, when Gilly’s boyfriend meets an untimely death the Owens sisters must use their magical talents to make the problem go away while evading the suspicions of the police.
Beetlejuice
A sequel can only be as good as the original it came from. While we all wait for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice starring Winnona Ryder and Jenna Ortega and other original cast members, catch up on the Deetz family history with this kooky film of all things dead and otherworldly. Angsty teens, portals to the other side and ancient curses, what’s not to love?
Spooky Pumpkins, courtesy of Claire Hall / TheCaptainsLog
Autumn Trees, courtesy of Fiona Sullivan / TheCaptainsLog
Claire’s Corner
Recipe: Chocolate Chess Pie
Ingredients:
1 unbaked pie shell
1 cup of sugar and cream blended
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
5 tablespoons evaporated milk
2 squares melted unsweetened chocolate (2 oz)
½ stick butter
Steps:
Melt butter and chocolate
Add creamed butter, eggs, vanilla, evaporated milk
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes then 200 degrees for 10 minutes (do not take out)
CLAIRE HALL CLAIRE.HALL.22@CNU.EDU
How can I feel more naturally energized in the morning? Your
Let’s face it, mornings in college are rough. You stayed awake until 2am, working on a big project or had really bad anxiety that prevented you from going to bed. Either way, waking up early in the morning can be a pain, especially if you have classes that starts at eight or nine in the morning. Here, I’ve listed some tips and tricks on how to feel energized super early in the morning so you can start your day off right!
Eat a good breakfast
Many people can agree with the fact that breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day. This is because it fuels your body for a busy day to come. When I had started college, I thought that breakfast was not super important, just grabbing a cereal bar and an apple to eat before class. However, this is NOT a good breakfast. A good breakfast requires lots of protein, fiber, and healthy fats; essentials that help fuel your body for the day. While apples and protein bars are considered healthy out of a vast majority of foods, they are not substantial enough to start your day with. Examples of a good breakfast can include: oatmeal, avocado toast, smoothies, and eggs. Now, I understand that sometimes we wake up late and therefore cannot prepare anything to eat. I have found that a simple solution to this problem is to buy overnight oats; oats that you can make the night before and grab before you head out of the door in the morning. Avocado toast is also very easy and last minute to make and tastes incredible.
Look into your coffee
For most people, coffee is supposed to give you energy and keep you awake early in the morning. However, a majority of store or fast food chain coffees that we purchase contain a lot of sugar and artificial sweeteners, making you crash and feel tired when you need to power through your day.
Now, I am guilty of enjoying a Starbucks coffee here and there, but when I know that I will have a long and busy day, I try to stray away from these stores and fast food chain coffees. Instead, it is good to make your own, therefore you know what is already being put in your coffee. A good coffee can power you through the day and will not make you crash.
Listen to music
One of my favorite things to do in the morning when I get ready is to put on an upbeat playlist. Usually I’m either listening to happy, upbeat songs, or the 2024 Top Songs playlist on Apple Music. While to some, this may seem like a bit too much in the morning, dancing and hearing these upbeat songs gets your mind and spirit high, ready to conquer anything. The best part about this is that you can either play it on a speaker, or if you have roommates and/or suitemates that are still sleeping, you can still play the music in a pair of headphones.
As the weeks of college begin to progress and progress, make sure you are doing everything you can to stay mindful, happy, and focused. College is not easy and sometimes a slight change in your morning routine can do you wonders of good for the weeks to come.
Photo courtesy of 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.”— CNU Chancellor Paul Trible
Overrated beauty hacks Editor shares why some beauty hacks just don’t work
CLAIRE HALL
CLAIRE.HALL.22@CNU.EDU
With so many different skincare hacks out there, sometimes it’s difficult to determine which ones actually do and don’t work. I am here to debunk some skincare hacks that did not work for me and probably will not work for you.
Toothpaste to remove blackheads
Obviously I had too much free time on my hands during COVID because when I had started getting into skincare, I was finding all these weird hacks online
and trying to replicate them for results. One of these weird hacks that I did was to rub toothpaste on my nose and place a tissue over it to replicate a pore strip. Obviously you can only imagine where this went. First, it was very messy and there was toothpaste everywhere. Secondly, it didn’t even work. I did not see a difference in before or after, leading to a waste of perfectly good toothpaste. As you can see from these cons, this hack is not worth your time.
D.I.Y Sugar Scrub using Honey and Coffee Grinds
I didn’t start getting into sugar
scrubs until after COVID when everything started to open back up and you could go to the stores and look at all the different beauty products. However, one of the biggest hacks that I was seeing around this time was a D.I.Y sugar scrub, which sounded incredibly fun to make. The ingredients that are meant to be placed in the sugar scrub included coffee grinds, honey, sugar, coconut oil, fragrance, etc.. and there were many different recipes that people came out with the more they started experimenting. First off, the ingredients that are used to make this scrub required precise measurements, or else you risk butchering the entire batch, which would be deemed wasteful. Then after I had made mine, I only had the scrub sitting out for two days when it started to mold. Overall, I found that the one I made had the same effects as the one I bought from Target; the only difference being that the one I bought was able to dissolve in water, whereas the one that I made left my shower and drain a mess. I simply wouldn’t recommend this hack, it’s worth it to just buy the scrub from the store.
Lemon Juice as a Toner
This is one of the only skincare hacks that I didn’t even bother to try, only because I felt that putting lemon juice on your face doesn’t sound like a good idea from the start. People were using lemon juice as a toner to tone and smooth the surface of their skin,
however, this does more damage than it does good. Lemon juice disrupts the natural pH balance of the skin, leaving your skin irritated and dry, which will increase oil production and make you break out even more. While many individuals have lemon juice accessible in their cabinets, it’s much better to spend an extra buck on a toner that will actually give you the benefits that you need.
Hairspray as setting spray
This is another hack that I didn’t bother trying, only because I was scared to spray my face with hairspray. This hack became popular as it was an alternative product to setting spray, a product that helps your makeup stay on your face longer. Needless to say, this hack isn’t as popular as it used to be, and for good reason too. Hairspray contains chemicals that are suitable for the hair on your head, but not for your face. The types of ingredients found in hairspray can cause clogged hair follicles and pores, dehydration of the skin and for some, an allergic reaction. I would call this hack and extreme flop and would rather just spend extra money on a good setting spray at Target, Ulta or Sephora. This is simply a reminder to NOT follow everything that you see online. While some beauty hacks may actually work, it’s sometimes better to stick with safer options, especially if it involves your skin. If you decide to try these hacks for yourself, just know that I warned you.
Makeup brushes, from Unsplash
Are Crumbl Cookies becoming overrated?
Is one cookie really worth almost five dollars?
HOLLY HAYDON HOLLY.HAYDON.23@CNU.EDU
In 2020, Crumbl Cookie shops began to pop up everywhere and very quickly grew in popularity. At this time everyone got excited when the cookies for the week were released every Monday. Influencers even began doing weekly Crumbl reviews and taste tests, and with the boredom of COVID, some people seemed willing to drop anywhere from five to fifty dollars on cookies. No one realized or seemed to care just how outrageous it was to spend twenty-five dollars on six cookies just so that they could try every flavor. Over the last couple of years however, Crumbl has started to be recognized for what it is. All over social media, the company has begun gaining negative reviews and comments.
When they first opened, the reviews of the infamous sugary cookies were all positive, stating that Crumbl had the best cookies you will ever eat. However, now the only thing I’m seeing is negative reviews, including the cookies being raw, overpriced and too sweet.
I’m not sure whether it was the media influencing my opinion or the cookies themselves, but in my experience, Crumbl used to be rather tasty. Though the last time I got Crumbl cookies a couple of months ago I was not pleased with my purchase. Looking back, I swear I would have never spent almost
The importance of floor time
The only correct way to end a
stressful day
HOLLY HAYDON HOLLY.HAYDON.23@CNU.EDU
20 dollars on four cookies. I mean that’s just downright outrageous!
Due to their popularity in the beginning, Crumbl started producing mini versions of the cookies to bring in a bigger crowd. I personally have never bought the mini versions so I can not state my opinions but I do not see many people buying them.
I have not been to a Crumbl Cookie location in over four months but it was brought to my attention that they have started selling other desserts as “cookies.”
For example, the new brownie sundae (which is a brownie, not a cookie), Tres Leches cake, (again not a cookie), and banana cream pie (yuck). These are just a few of the random “cookie” flavors Crumbl is selling these days.
If you ask me, Crumbl used to be good until they decided to start getting crazy with their flavors. I mean to be honest, who is going to buy an everything bagel cookie for five dollars? At that point, you might as well go by an actual everything bagel. It’s also hard to spend the same amount of money on one raw cookie that I could spend to buy a whole package at Harris Teeter. I think that if Crumbl began to lower their prices just a little and come out with classic flavors then maybe, just maybe they would be worth it.
It is arguable that “floor time” is the absolute best part of the day. I know it’s the best part of mine anyway. What is floor time you might ask? Floor time is the part of the day when we are given the opportunity to lie on the floor and take a break from the stress of the day. Floor time is time spent relaxing and relieving stress. While this may seem a little crazy to some of you, there’s a reason that it’s suggested to parents to let their babies play on the floor everyday; it’s rather grounding. You can even try yoga or meditation to calm your mind if being on your phone or just laying down seems un-enjoyable. Personally, I like to be on my phone during floor time, however, that is not always the case. Floor time allows you to, no matter what you’re doing while on the floor, to relax and take a breather.
After a long day, there is nothing I look forward to more than laying on the floor for a solid 20 to 25 minutes. Floor time for at least 20 to 30 minutes every day promotes productivity later on in the night. By taking this time for yourself, you are more likely to be less stressed.
“Floor time allows you to, no matter what you’re doing while on the floor, to relax and take a breather.”
I think floor time is an essential part of every college student’s day. I will swear you are lying if you can honestly say you have never laid on the floor for a substantial amount of time after classes. I know personally that the moment I walk into my room after returning from classes I immediately lay on the floor. In my experience, it’s a good idea to have a nice fluffy rug to do this on and not the gross dorm carpet. My favorite study hack I will let you in on is to sit on the floor while reading over flashcards. It helps me not only stay relaxed but also focus while I look over class materials, as well as offering a nice change of scenery or is a comfortable spot to move to if you need to get out of a chair. I guess to summarize, if you have never tried floor time before, now is your chance. I can promise you after the first time you will never look back.
Crumbl cookies, from Unsplash
Girl laying on the grass, from Unsplash
By Tori A.B
Sudoku
Fill the puzzle so that every row across, every column down and every 9 by 9 box contains the numbers 1 to 9
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Who Lives in a Pinapple Under the Sea?
place to get kimchi
55 Extended leave 56 The Pacific's most famous clarinet player 60 Purely malevolent 61 Easter egg event
62 Prayer ending 63 Put in order 64 UVA students, colloquially 65 Precursor to the harp 66 "____ leches? en esta economía?"
Autobiography
in today's
Member of the fam
No birdies or bogeys
Completely unprincipled
Old Ben to some, Obi Wan to others
Got a 100 on
Take
Narcissist's biggest characteristic 12 Where a spider or a programmer might find a bug
18 Exclamation of surprise 19 "I'm so disappointed" over text
20 Gradually wear down 23 Roy from Ted Lasso 24 Styx's "Come ____ Away"
25 Disney Princess voiced by Idina Menzel
26 Unit for electrical current
30 ___-ray disc
32 Opposite of fore, on a ship
34 Guaranteed
35 Most unnerving Great Lake?
36 Old timey gear
37 Surprised greeting 38 Kitchen pest
39 Least clear
Many millennia
Apple's MP3 player
Ocean unicorns 45 Like a sauna
Clothes
Heist targets
Busy hospital rooms (abbr.) 52 More uncommon than 53 Really take time to enjoy
54 Things to piece together
56 Silent letters? 57 Status ___
58 Card game notable for its 'reverse' and 'draw four' cards
59 There is no proper solution, to mathematicians