3-20-24

T he inde p e nde nt st udent newspaper of the University of Pittsburgh PIttn e w s.co m | MARCH 20, 2024 ­| Volume 114 | Issue 120

The Pitt News

"Best of" Edition

Cover by Thalia Sifnakis, Hannah Levine, Kelechi Anucha and Bronco York pittnews.com

March 20, 2024

1

ANTHONY “TONY” NOVOSEL VOTED BEST PROFESSOR

BY PITT COMMUNITY

Kyra McCague Staff Writer

In The Pitt News’ annual “Best Of” survey, students voted Anthony Novosel, a part-time instructor in the history department, best professor.

To senior history and German major Lily Wilson, it’s obvious why Novosel is the best professor.

“He’s so engaging, first of all,” Wilson said. “You’re never bored in his classes, even though he has those 2

1/2 hours, once a week classes.”

Novosel, known to his students as Tony, has taught at Pitt since 1989 when he started graduate school. He worked as a general advisor from 1994 to 2006 after he finished his doctorate and was hired as a faculty member and full time adviser for the history department.

Currently, Novosel only teaches three classes — Professional Development for History Majors and Minors, The Great War: A Cultural History and Northern Ireland: The Troubles: 1969-1994.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Novosel describes his career path as “a long, convoluted story.”

“I did a lot of different things when I was younger,” Novosel said. “I went to trade school after high school, ended up as an auto mechanic by trade, ended up working in factories.”

After an injury caused him to take off work for seven months, Novosel began thinking about college. He started at Pitt in January of 1985 at age 32.

“So that's how I got here, and then I never left,” Novosel said.

Between jobs during the ‘70s, Novosel stumbled upon what would become his primary research interest. After what he described as a “weird series of cir-

cumstances,” Novosel went to Northern Ireland for the first time in 1974.

“When I teach the Northern Ireland classes, I jokingly say, ‘You're not just studying the Northern Ireland conflict, you're studying my adult life,’” Novosel

said. “Because I've been going there since I was 20.”

Novosel’s research focuses on Protestant loyalists who fought against a united Ireland. His work is published in his 2012 book “Northern Ireland’s Lost Opportunity: The Frustrated Promise of Political Loyalism.”

In addition to research, Novosel has worked extensively with communities in Northern Ireland by speaking in loyalist working class communities, running

“It becomes very real,” Novosel said. “They're getting the academic part of it, but they're also talking to people who are involved, or were affected by the conflict.”

A number of his guests, both in his Northern Ireland class and his professional development class, include his former students, some of whom he taught 30 years ago.

He considers the “personal connections [he] makes as a result of teaching” a highlight of his career at Pitt.

Students like Wilson have also benefited personally from his connections with former students. Novosel introduced Wilson to the master’s program in public history at Queen's University in Belfast, which she now hopes to attend.

“He’s connected me with a lot of former students that currently do it, that have graduated, that went to the school that I’m planning on going to in Northern Tony Novosel smiles for photos with his cats.

Courtesy of Tony Novosel

soccer clinics for women and girls and working with a program bringing people from Northern Ireland to America. His voluntary work earned him an honorary Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire appointment.

Through his research and work in Northern Ireland, Novosel made a number of connections that allowed him to bring a number of guest speakers into class, a highlight for students like senior political science and history major Jared Cortazzo.

“We had someone from the UVF [Ulster Volunteer Force] come in and talk to us and someone who was in the IRA,” Cortazzo said. “You can’t get that anywhere else.”

Novosel considers his guest speakers a core part of his Northern Ireland course.

Ireland,” Wilson said. “It’s all because of Tony.”

Beyond his guest speakers, both Wilson and Cortazzo agree that Novosel is a great teacher.

“You can just tell he has a passion for it,” Cortazzo said. “He’s very knowledgeable. He pushes you.”

They also emphasized the skills and knowledge that they took away from class with Novosel.

“He’s really good at breaking down why things happened and what they mean,” Wilson said. “Those expectations in his classes are high, but they’re very attainable.

It makes you feel pretty accomplished when you do attain them.”

When anyone asks Wilson for a history class recommendation, she says, “Tony’s class.”

“You gotta just take his classes to see for yourself,” Cortazzo said.

HISTRIONIC VOTED

‘BEST LOCAL BAND’

IN THE PITT NEWS SURVEY

Patrick Swain Culture Editor

pittnews.com

Histrionic spawned from a basement in Highland Park in 2014. Brothers Simon and Jude Sweeney and their friend Isaac Winograd fiddled with instruments, plucking at guitars and banging on drums, their youthful cacophony melding into harmony with each year of practice. A decade later, their band Histrionic is a fixture in Oakland’s music scene — earning them the accolade

March 20, 2024

“Best Local Band” in The Pitt News’ 2024 “Best Of” survey, as voted by readers.

Winograd and Simon Sweeney’s friendship goes back to elementary school, when the two budding musicians jammed on their parents’ instruments. After a few name and lineup changes, Jude joined his older brother as a sixth grader, and they adopted the moniker Histrionic, first playing covers and then moving on to originals. With Simon Sweeney on guitar and vocals, See Histrionic on page 8

2

PITT EXTENDS COMMITMENT DEADLINE FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS TO MAY 15

Jordan Kooper

Emmert said, “It was probably one of the most important factors of deciding where to go.”

High school seniors had a little extra time to decide Emmert remembered her own experience of decidif they will attend Pitt this fall. ing where to go to college as a high school senior and The University of Pittsburgh announced on Feb. how an extension to the deadline may help current high 23 that it would extend its commitment deadline from school students.

May 1 to May 15 due to the U.S. Department of Educa“I think I would feel pretty relieved, just because tion’s delay in sending the Free Application for Federal it seems to create a more flexible timeline for people,” Student Aid data. Pitt joined schools across the country she said, “Since I chose my higher education based on in extending its commitment deadline for this reason, what financial aid I received from different universities, which includes the California State system, Rutgers and I think extending the deadline would allow me to actuPenn State. Colleges use the data that students and their ally be able to take more time to decide to where I want families disclose on their to go, and then I wouldn't FAFSA forms to deterhave to hit decline in mine financial aid packsomeplace just because ages.

I was unsure of what my In response to a fedaid package would be.” eral law introduced in Along with help2020, the Department ing schools create finanof Education unveiled cial aid packages, FAFSA sweeping changes to the also helps the DOE deFAFSA and the formula it termine who receives Pell applies to the data in DeGrants — a federal loan cember. This has resulted for low-income students in a mass delay of the rethat, in most cases, stulease of FAFSA data due dents don’t have to repay.

A student looks at a laptop screen that to technical glitches on Both these types of aid reads, “Welcome to Pitt.” the form and last-minute can take thousands of dolHannah Levine | Staff Photographer changes to these calculalars off tuition costs. tions, according to the New York Times.

“My family is unable to pay full tuition … therefore, “This means schools will not have FAFSA data until being able to get as much financial aid from any school sometime in March, which will greatly impact the Uni- will completely change my life,” AlSharaa said. “I fear versity of Pittsburgh’s ability to send financial aid offers that if I don't hear back soon, I won’t know what to do to our first-year admitted students,” Pitt spokesperson by the time commitment day comes.”

Jared Stonesifer said. “Pitt’s financial aid office is workThe FAFSA form typically opens on Oct. 1 each year ing diligently to determine an accurate timeline for but got delayed in 2023 until the end of December bethese communications.” cause of the new changes. When it did launch, students Current college students such as Katie Emmert, a and parents could only access the website periodically. junior criminal justice and political science major, have “Continued delays — communicated at the last encountered these difficulties on the FAFSA form. minute — threaten to harm the very students and fami“I think [the process] was definitely difficult just be- lies that federal student aid is intended to help,” Justin cause of the amount of uncertainty,” Emmert said. “Ob- Draeger, president of the National Association of Stuviously [in] Harrisburg, there was a lot of delays there dent Financial Aid Administrators, said in a statement and a lot of confusion. So there was definitely concern via the New York Times. with that.”

To avoid this fate, Pittsburgh-area high schools have The delay in financial packages has caused anxiety taken new measures such as distributing information in for high school seniors, according to Mayar AlSharaa, newsletters and on social media to make sure students a senior at Taylor Allderdice High School in Pittsburgh. and parents understand why financial aid packages are “The delay in financial aid packages has caused delayed and that they have two extra weeks to decide on me to stress over college decisions much more than I a college, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. thought it would,” AlSharaa said. “I feel like [the exten“[Based on] the discussions I’ve had with my friends, sion] gives me more time to view all my options and we have all come to an agreement that we will most likefind the most suitable and affordable school for me.” ly end up going to our cheapest option,” AlSharaa said, AlSharaa said she’s just waiting on her financial aid “However, at the moment, none of us know what that packages to make her decision. For Emmert, financial will be, therefore we are constantly stressing over when aid played a key role in making her college decision.

FAFSA will come out.”

“I think financial aid was a make or break for me,” Staff Writer

pittnews.com

March 20, 2024

3

Salute to the Grads of 2024

PITT WOMEN’S CLUB LACROSSE UTILIZES LARGE TEAM, CHEMISTRY TO NATIONAL COMPETITION

Friends and Family can shout out their 2024 Pitt Grad in a special edition of The Pitt News

Pitt women’s lacrosse sticks lie on the ground during a game against Notre Dame in 2023.

Pamela Smith | Contributing Editor

Lily Peters Staff Writer

QR Code

Scan me to purchase

Deadline to purchase is April 1, 2024 Published by April 24, 2024

*** Businesses please contact advertising@pittnews.com to purchase ads in the Graduation edition

pittnews.com

In The Pitt News “Best Of” survey, women’s club lacrosse secured the title of best club sport. Between taking home several club national championships and traveling across the country for tournaments each year, it’s no wonder the team has almost 50 members in its roster.

Despite being a highly competitive and successful club sport, the team doesn’t make any cuts. Regardless of skill level or experience, all are welcome, and the team values the absence of cuts. But with a considerable number of girls on the team, it adds a competitive edge for the 12 starting spots.

“We have travel rosters for some tournaments, but it's like you have such a huge community bigger than a normal 20-person team,” junior defender Shoshana Rosenthal said. “It’s always competitive because the travel rosters change so much, so people are always fighting for those spots. It’s such good competition all of the time.”

Senior defender Lauren Lindsey also likes the large team size, as she said it contributes to the team’s success.

“There’s so many girls that can make you better and push you to be better,” Lindsey said. “So, when you go against other teams, you already have a step-up on them because you’re playing against these girls that are so good.”

Lindsey explains that having large numbers at practice greatly contributes to the growth of a successful club.

“Because we have so many people, we can do full scrimmages in practice and full field scrimmages,” Lindsey said. “We have a lot of depth and a lot of variety. And I think that definitely contributes to our success on the field.”

Besides having a large roster, the team has many other areas of interest as well. The team spends its weekends during the spring semester traveling to different tournaments across the country.

This year, they have already traveled to Arizona.

The team will also travel to Virginia for a competition at James Madison and finish up the season with regionals at Virginia Tech and nationals in Wichita, Kansas.

Due to the high costs associated with travel, the team collaborates on fundraising efforts to cover ex-

March 20, 2024

penses. Club women’s lacrosse receives minimal funding from Pitt, prompting the team to rely heavily on fundraising activities.

The team's major fundraiser, Engage Pitt, typically generates around $15,000. Each team member emails people they know to attract donors. Additionally, the team organizes fundraisers at Chipotle and Piada to supplement its efforts.

In addition to fundraising together, the team also builds strong teamwork on and off the field. Senior goalie and captain Ana Youngblut has spent all four years of college with the team. She keeps returning because of the strong bond among her teammates.

“I think we all just really mesh together really well,” Youngblut said. “Whenever we play, we know how the other people on our team play. Just having that dynamic is so important on a lacrosse field, because if everybody just plays differently and for themselves, it’s just not as effective as playing together as a whole team.”

Youngblut also emphasized that the team's chemistry sets them apart from other club lacrosse teams.

“We just hype each other up so much,” Youngblut said “My sophomore year at nationals, we won an award that was basically a team spirit award. We were all just having fun on the sidelines. All the refs love having our team because we’re just really friendly players.”

She elaborated that her team maintains a positive attitude toward lacrosse, regardless of the situation.

“If we’re not doing well, we never get aggressive or frustrated,” Youngblut said.

Lindsey echoed this sentiment and said that it's the people that make her keep coming back to play.

“At the end of the day, it’s not the lacrosse you remember,” Lindsey said “It’s the hotel stays, the car rides and the practices. I’ve definitely met my best friends on the team.”

As well as helping to develop players overall, the club lacrosse team also contributes to players’ personal growth as college students and people. ​​Both Rosenthal and Youngblut hold leadership positions within the team and attribute their growth as leaders to their roles in club lacrosse. Youngblut, who serves as team captain, highlighted how her leadership responsibilities have contributed to her personal growth.

“It’s definitely helped me learn how to effectively See Lacrosse on page 5

4

PITT MEN’S BASKETBALL REFLECTS ON PAST AND FUTURE Matthew Scabilloni

pressed in the ACC Tournament as well. He completed the tournament Two years ago, on March 8, 2022, shooting 4-7 from beyond the arc, Pitt men’s basketball finished yet anscoring 17 points and grabbing nine other atrocious season under head rebounds. Diaz Graham also finished a coach Jeff Capel, posting an 11-22 layup that closed out the Panthers’ 81record. Capel went to the post-game 69 victory over Wake Forest. press conference after getting routed Even with the Panthers' impressive

by Boston College and decided to let showing in Washington, D.C., they everyone know the truth of his curdidn’t earn a bid to March Madness in rent roster.

2024 like they did in 2023.

“We have to get better players. I Pitt's failure to earn a bid to March mean, that’s the reality of it,” Capel Madness is disappointing for Panthers said. “It’s nothing against — it’s not fans, but in 2023-24, the program anything personal. We have to conshowed that it was growing with Capel tinue to add better players. We have to at the helm. recruit better … We have to continue Pitt has two first-year guards lookPitt players William Jeffress (24), Federiko Federiko (33) and Zack to develop guys. We have to continue ing to return for next season. CarAustin (55) at the end of their loss to North Carolina during an to help them reach their potential as rington believes he and Lowe are one NCAA college basketball game in the semifinal round of the players.” of the best duos in the country and Atlantic Coast Conference tournament Friday, March 15, 2024, Capel made due on this comment. that Pitt should have made the NCAA in Washington. Associated Press/Susan Walsh He added Nelly Cummings, Greg EllTournament in 2024. liot and Blake Hinson via the transfer portal. He re- fine. They’re just going to get these learning lessons “I feel like me and Jaland are one of the best backcruited Federiko Federiko and two lanky Spaniards in and become the best freshmen in the conference.” courts in the country,” Carrington said. “We showed the Diaz Graham twins. He also developed Jamarius The first-years did just as Hinson said. During that we belong on the big stage.”

Burton and Nike Sibande into ACC award winners. the latter half of the season, they were dominant and Although their name wasn’t called during this seaIn the 2022-23 season, Capel’s newly constructed showed how talented they are in the ACC Tournament son’s Selection Sunday, Carrington believes the Panroster returned the Panthers to the NCAA Tourna- on a national stage. thers will do some damage next season. ment for the first time since 2016 and gave Pitt basketIn the ACC Tournament, Carrington was the only “We [will] come back stronger, better,” Carrington ball fans something to cheer for in March. first-year in the conference to earn an All-Tournament said. “I feel like we can definitely make some real noise But there were doubts about Capel’s philosophy Team honor, in large part due to his 24-point perfor- next year for sure.” entering the 2023 off-season. He lost three starters, mance against North Carolina.

Panthers fans can have their reasons to take cauand many wondered if Capel obtaining all of these upLowe, however, didn’t earn an All-Tournament tion with Carrington’s remarks. Pitt is losing an Allperclassmen was just a “flash in the pan.” The 2023-24 team honor — but came very close. The Missouri City, ACC First-Team player in Hinson, who was the most season was a testing ground for Pitt fans to see if the Texas, native averaged 14 points, 4.5 assists and did not important player to the 2023-24 squad with his un2022-23 was just a brief season of success. commit a turnover in the ACC Tournament. wavering confidence.

The 2023-24 season started off looking like CaLike the two first-years, Leggett struggled at the bePitt, however, is most likely returning two firstpel’s philosophy was a one-hit wonder. The first-year ginning of the year but learned how to play Power Six years who went toe-to-toe with a team that earned a guards, Carlton “Bub” Carrington and Jaland Lowe, basketball in the final two months of the season.

No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament, a guard who along with junior transfer guard Ishmael Leggett, were The guard from Prince George's County, Mary- scored 30 against a top-five seed in the ACC Tournanot making the difference that the newcomers did the land — just 30 minutes from Capital One Arena — ment, a center that can get hot from deep and many prior season. showed his best in the ACC Tournament. Leggett had other key pieces.

Pitt was struggling and couldn’t win key games ear- a season-high 30 points, eight rebounds and five steals The program has come a long way since March 8, ly in the non conference. This included a 71-62 loss to against Wake Forest, earning himself a spot on the All- 2022. Capel has obtained his “better players,” and other Missouri. The first-years struggled against the Tigers, Tournament team alongside Carrington.

ACC coaches are taking notice. shooting 5-15 from the field and had only four assists During Leggett’s stellar performance against Wake “Coach Capel does a fantastic job,” North Carolina to the five turnovers they committed.

Forest, Lowe saw something he sees every day from head coach Hubert Davis said. “The players that they But Hinson didn’t see this game as a struggle for the junior guard. have there, not only are they big-time college players, the first-years.

“I saw a dog, I saw a leader,” Lowe said. “I saw one they've got future NBA players over there.”

“They’re not struggling, they’re learning,” Hinson of the best players in the country. That’s what I saw toThe ACC Tournament may not have earned Pitt said. “They’re learning. They’re better than me at han- night. That’s what we see day in and day out from him.” a bid to March Madness, but its efforts gave Panthers dling the ball, let me tell you that. They’re going to be Sophomore center Guillermo Diaz Graham im- fans reason for optimism in the coming seasons.

Lacrosse, pg. 5

of the team with the social and athletic aspect as well.”

Overall, all three players have enjoyed their time as players on the club lacrosse team and are extremely communicate with people,” Youngblut said, “And just optimistic for the remainder of the season. Lindsey behow to stay organized and manage the business side lieves that her team can take home another champion-

pittnews.com

ship this season.

“We’ve got some pretty good girls on the team that I think could stand a chance at that national championship,” Lindsey said. “I think we all have that mentality that we could do it.”

March 20, 2024

THE

Senior Staff Writer

r o

MANOR

Fri, Mar. 22-thu, mar. 28

n a

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (PG - 13) Fri: 2:25, 4:45, 7:10, 9:30 Sat & Sun: 12:05, 2:25, 4:45, 7:10, 9:30 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 2:25, 4:45, 7:10, 9:30

M Manor Love Lies Bleeding (R) Fri: 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40 Sat & Sun: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40 Dune: Part Two (PG - 13) Fri: 3:15, 6:30, 9:45 Sat & Sun: 12:00, 3:15, 6:30, 9:45 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 3:15, 6:30, 9:45 One Life (PG) Fri: 2:35, 7:00 Sat & Sun: 2:35, 7:00 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 2:35, 7:00

r o an

Perfect Days (PG) Fri: 9:15 Sat & Sun: 9:15 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 9:15

M

The Zone of Interest (PG - 13) Fri: 4:50 Sat & Sun: 12:25, 4:50 Mon, Tues, Wed & Thu: 4:50

Movies & Showtimes subject to change - visit manorpgh.com

STUDENT DISCOUNT

AFTER 6PM WITH A VALID STUDENT ID 1729 MURRAY AVE.

412-422-7729

MON-THURS $7 FRI-SUN $8 SQUIRREL HILL

TAKE 61B, C, D BUS

f

5

2024 BEST OF: food & drink

RAISING CANE’S CHICKEN

PIADA

REDHAWK

ITALIAN

COFFEE

OISHII BENTO

OAKMOUNT BAKERY

JAPANESE

ASIA TEA HOUSE CHINESE

OISHII BENTO KOREAN

NOODLEHEAD THAI

PRINCE OF INDIA IDIAN

SHAH’S MIDDLE EASTERN

BAKERY

ROOTS VEGAN/VEGETARIAN

PIZZA ROMANO PIZZA

DAVE AND ANDY’S ICE CREAM

PAMELA’S DINER BREAKDAST

CREATE PITT EATS

EL JEFE’S LATE NIGHT MENU pittnews.com

LIVE FRESH BLACK OWNED BUSINESS March 20, 2024

6

Student Life ATO

Off Campus

GREEK LIFE

HEMINGWAY’S CAFE

WPTS

5801

BAR

STUDENT ORG

GAY BAR

VOLLEYBALL

CARNEGIE MUSEUMS OF ART AND NATURAL HISTORY

PITT NCAA

WOMEN’S LACROSSE CLUB SPORTS

On Campus ALYSSA PERRINO PITT ATHLETE

TONY NOVOSEL

MUSEUM

BUFFALO EXCHANGE THRIFT STORE

PITTSBURGH TATTOO COMPANY TATTOO SHOP TREVOR KEEFER BARTENDER

PITT PROFESSOR

music and sports

HILLMAN

STEELERS

PLACES TO STUDY

SUTHERLAND RESIDENCE HALL pittnews.com

SPORTS TEAM

HISTRIONIC LOCAL BAND March 20, 2024

7

Histrionic, pg. 2 Jude on bass and Winograd on drums, the trio has performed at venues around Pittsburgh.

Histrionic’s energetic rock evokes a blend of the music they absorbed growing up, like the Beatles and Nirvana, and the gritty sound of local acts they heard in Oakland as they reached adulthood. Simon Sweeney said he found inspiration in underground concerts he attended in Oakland spaces like Rothko House and The Deli. They hosted acts like feeble little horse and Tough Cuffs, but like many other DIY venues, they came and went.

“The first thing I went to after things opened up a little bit … was a show at Rothko very early in junior year where feeble little horse opened … Tough Cuffs played at that show, and Water Trash,” Sweeney said. “I was just like, ‘I need to be playing music.’ It literally felt

pittnews.com

like you were in an oven in the center of that room — I would not have been surprised if it was 200 degrees. You couldn’t put your hand out, it was painful. I have a pair of shoes that was completely ruined by that. It was the best.”

Simon Sweeney, who graduated from Pitt last year, said the band has latched onto that DIY ethos and continued the underground tradition at venues like West Egg and the Black Lodge.

“I love playing the true basement show, the true DIY. The dirtier the basement, the better. The more packed, the more hot, the better,” Sweeney said. “We’re not making a ton of money, we’re not playing to a thousand people … we’d be playing if we were playing to five people — and we’ve done that, too.”

The young, low-budget crowd of Oakland’s DIY community makes it distinct from more formal scenes with longer-lasting musical institutions. Winograd, who

attended Pitt for one year, said the DIY spaces where Histrionic flourishes, like the defunct Deli and contemporary basement venues, foster a sense of creative liberation. “[The Deli] had a good balance of letting artists get weird if they wanted to, but not too far. And that’s a really fine line to walk,” Winograd said. “I remember one time I went to a show and there was a toilet as a prop, and I think it got destroyed. And I was like, ‘That’s pretty cool.’ That’s something that seems OK, as opposed to getting naked or something on stage.”

The bedrock of the band is their fraternal synergy.

Winograd said the trio’s dynamic comes from a sense of mutual respect, years of jamming and Simon Sweeney’s creative direction. For Jude Sweeney, a junior English literature and film and media studies major, playing with his older brother and one of his oldest friends creates a fruitful shared context.

March 20, 2024

Courtesy of Histrionic

“I always say I’ve known him for 21 years now. It makes it pretty easy — we’ve had a rapport forever because we’re brothers, and we’ve been working on music together forever. We play with our dad,” Jude Sweeney said. “It really helps to have that connection, to be able to work together. I can kinda read his mind sometimes.”

Histrionic is a family affair — the fathers of the Sweeneys and Winograd are also musicians. Simon agreed with his brother, saying they owe their musicality to their dad’s encouragement.

“Me and Jude have a lot of very similar instincts because so much of how we started playing music came from our dad, who is a very good guitar player … even when we were little kids and didn’t really play instruments, we would just be banging on the drums as he played Beatles songs on guitar,” Sweeney said. “We came away from that with a lot of the same baked-in way of thinking about how to make music.”

With scarce time and money, developing a band’s profile in the DIY community is an elaborate task.

Though Histrionic got a head start from the knowledge and resources of their supportive musical upbringing, Winograd said growing the band means embracing its scene.

“A lot of that is networking — it depends who’s at your DIY show. We’ve been lucky enough to have a couple moments where we meet a guy from a different venue. There was someone who was involved with Bottle Rocket … they came and played at a show, and we got that connection. We had an old friend who we gigged with way back in the day who got us on at Mr. Smalls. A lot of it’s who you know, which can be hard at first,” Winograd said. “Push yourself to be social at these shows … you just gotta keep putting yourself out there, and eventually it gets easier.”

In their spare moments between shows, the band is recording its first album. Simon Sweeney said crafting the LP has proven arduous, but fans should expect it soon.

“I was recording a little bit today, just this evening.

We’re moving slowly but surely — me and Isaac work, and Jude’s in school still, so we can’t go in and spend two weeks just every day in the studio for eight hours, so it’s a little bit slow-going,” Sweeney said. “But it’ll be released — unless something goes horribly wrong — this year.”

As performers and listeners, Histrionic has witnessed DIY music in Pittsburgh evolve over the past decade. Simon Sweeney looks ahead to what Oakland music will look like after they’re gone.

“We want three people to come to our shows a couple times and start a band, like I had when I went to that Tough Cuffs show and I said, ‘Wow, I need to be doing this,’” Sweeney said. “Even if it’s not our music specifically that makes it happen, just if we can get people to start bands, get venues started — those are the two things the scene needs, venues and bands, or it’s nothing.”

8

‘IT’S ABOUT PROGRESS’:

STUDENTS FIND COMFORT IN THE INCREASING LACK OF GREEN SPACE ON CAMPUS IN FAVOR OF CONSTRUCTION Anna Ehlers

Contributing Editor

opinion

With spring just around the corner, Pittsburgh has seen an increasing number of pleasant, sunny days.

When the warmth hits Oakland, you can find students lounging outside, filling up every green space available on campus. In fact, on the sunny days before spring break, every available green space was filled up, providing challenges for many students looking for space to lounge in the sunshine.

“I ended up sitting on the pavement in Schenley Plaza,” said Allie Resler. “It hurt.”

In recent years, Pitt’s Campus Master Plan has identified and began construction on key spots on campus to construct new buildings. Places like the grassy bowl near the Pete and that parklet on Fifth Avenue have already faced their doom in the face of Oakland’s improvement endeavors. The changes have also affected the campus ecosystem, with the loss of grass in the latter location displacing campus celebrities, the Fifth Avenue pigeons.

Despite certain annoyances, some members of the Pitt community have expressed preference for the construction over green space.

“It gives me such hope to see a gray, sludgy construction site on campus,” said Samantha Clifton. “It’s just so great to see our school improving things.”

Despite Clifton’s affinity for the construction, she also enjoyed the sunshine in the grass a few weeks ago, claiming she very easily found a place to situate outside.

“If you’re inventive, you can really find space anywhere,” Clifton said. “My friends and I managed to play spike ball over some peoples’ heads in Schenley Plaza.

And they left after a few minutes, so really, it wasn’t that bad. Sometimes you just gotta stick it out until it clears up.”

2015 alum Nick Daniels was also in town during those lucky few days and found himself lamenting what

he missed out on, having graduated nearly a decade ago.

“When I come back and I see the sidewalks blocked off, that’s when I get jealous,” Daniels said. “That’s when I know I’m missing out.”

Daniels spent his time with a few other Pitt alumni navigating through students settled on the Cathedral lawn, until they gave up on finding a place to sit and ventured up to the Pete walkway to admire the construction in the green space formerly known as the bowl. The bowl has had its lawn overturned and razed in order to accommodate for Pitt’s Victory Heights project.

Daniels says he did not understand the concern about losing green space on campus.

“I mean, I saw green space everywhere, just like in my day,” Daniels said. “No one was out lounging on that little patch of grass right in front of the Pete. Why not there, huh?”

Resler, however, finds no inspiration in the idea of construction, calling it “exhausting.”

“I’ve been trying my hardest to find enjoyment in the handfuls of grass that have popped up from the mulch behind Hillman, but it does very little for me,” Resler said.

Resler, like many students, chose to attend Pitt because of its pleasant mix of urban living and nature on campus. She and her parents found the campus a charming place that met Resler’s needs of both a good education and a connection to nature. But as a student here, Resler has realized it just hasn’t been enough.

“When nice days happen, it really just goes to show that there isn’t enough green space for everyone,” Resler said on the subject of Schenley Plaza being too crowded.

“And the University is not making attempts to accommodate us all.”

Resler has found the increasing lack of green space in Oakland, including the UPMC construction project on Fifth Avenue and De Soto Street, has negatively affected her mental health. She laments the lack of opportunities

to look at nature on the way to class everyday.

However, Clifton and Daniels did not express the same concerns about the connection between mental health and green space.

Daniels expressed sympathy for the sports teams whose primary practice facilities will be located in the new Victory Heights building upon its completion.

“Has anyone thought about the mental health of stu-

pittnews.com

Layne’s Chicken Fingers // Thomas Riley, Opinions Editor Yes, I am a Layne’s apologist. Everyone loves Cane’s, and I doubt anyone is surprised they won Best Chicken this year, but I would hate to see Layne’s left in the dust.

Layne’s was there for us for the 1 1/2 months leading up to Cane’s grand opening. Is their breading not quite as crispy as Cane’s? Yes. Is their astronaut-chicken mascot a little strange? Certainly. Did their app not work for half See Underdogs on page 10

dents who have to walk all the way to the Fitzgerald to practice?” Daniels said. “I just think we need to think about how we’re helping athletes. Because no one wants to think about them, but someone’s gotta.”

Clifton justified the University’s construction.

“I mean, it’s about progress. Maybe we’re losing mental health, but in the end, we’re balancing it out with progress. That’s improvement.”

Daniels also expressed concerns about students’ physical health. “I mean, some people are actually allergic to grass, so… I think it’s probably good that there’s less.”

Anna would like to remind everyone that Schenley Plaza was a parking lot once in Pittsburgh’s not-too-distant history. It’s never too late to reinstall green space. You can reach her at ane45@pitt.edu.

Get involved in Student Government Board in the 2024-2025 Academic Year!

OAKLAND UNDERDOGS WHO DIDN’T QUITE WIN THE PITT NEWS’ ‘BEST OF’

The winners of The Pitt News’ “Best Of” survey are in, but there’s always more love to share. Fortunately, the opinions staff are here to advocate for the underdogs who fell just short — or incredibly short — of winning our paper’s prestigious award. It may not seem like it, but you will someday tire of Cane’s or Redhawk or Hillman Library. When that day comes, you’ll thank your lucky stars you have a handy B-list of underappreciated Pittsburgh attractions.

Joy Zhang | Staff Illustrator

satire

March 20, 2024

APPLY FOR SGB! Apply at sgb.pitt.edu/join!

Follow our Instagram (@pitt_sgb) for updates!

DORM-FREE LIVING STARTS WITH US! NOW LEASING studio to five bedroom apartments for the 2024-2025 school year!

Our availability is limited, contact us now.

412.685.3298 • LIVEATUCOMMONS.COM

9

Underdogs, pg. 9 a year, causing me to miss out on two free meal rewards?

Sure.

But their fries are better than Cane’s! And they have a clock on the wall labeled “Somewhere” that’s always set to 5 p.m., which made me nudge my friend and say, “Heh, look at that.” It’s also worth mentioning they did come before Cane’s — and not just to Pittsburgh. Cane’s was founded in 1996, but Layne’s was born in 1994. It really doesn’t matter that much, but sometimes people say Layne’s is a knock-off of Cane’s, and I simply can’t bear witness to this blatant historical revisionism.

If I can’t get you to try their chicken, at least grab a milkshake. The prices are reasonable, and the salted caramel flavor is a banger. And to the manager of Layne’s, if you’re reading this, please give me a free three-piece

meal. What’s the point of having a birthday if I can’t celebrate by using my in-app reward?

Frick Fine Arts and Cathedral of Learning // Irene Moran, Staff Columnist I’m admitting it, I do not enjoy studying in Hillman.

I have been in Hillman a solid three times to do my work since starting university. Those three times I was there, I only went because my friend wanted me to go with her, not because I wanted to.

I’m not a fan of the lighting in Hillman. It reminds me of a hospital, something I obviously don’t want to be reminded of. I prefer a dim setting to study and do my work in, not bright fluorescent bulbs. This is why I prefer to go to Frick or the Cathedral of Learning to do my work. Frick Library may be small, but every time I have been there, I was able to get a seat and do my work.

Now, when it comes to the Cathedral, you can go

WANT SOMETHING FIXED AT PITT? ed

w

museum, an 18th century house called Clayton, a car and carriage museum and gardens. Art, however, is my forte, so I will be advocating for the art museum facet of The Frick Pittsburgh.

The Frick offers an art collection featuring Renaissance and other European art as well as Chinese porcelain, finely crafted furniture and antique clothing, many of which were collected by Henry Clay Frick and his daughter Helen. The galleries at the Frick feature richly decorated walls and warm lighting that makes the gold frames of the art shimmer. While I appreciate the merits of all-white walls when presenting art, there’s something truly enchanting about the effects that deep, richly colClay Coast // Livia LaMarca, Assistant Opinions Editor ored walls have on the color schemes of artworks. If you Around this time last year, I had the privilege of go- like old buildings as much as me, you’ll truly get a kick ing to vote at the Pitt Factor competition on behalf of out of the creaky floors and bespoke wood paneling.

The Pitt News — an event that chose the opening act to The vibe — dark academia meets Pittsburgh philanCarlie Rae Jepsen’s concert at the Bigelow Bash. Every- thropists with money to burn and a serious appreciation one there was outstanding. There were multiple dance for jewel tones. groups, bands and artists showcasing the unbelievable The permanent collection of the Frick Art Mutalent that exists on Pitt’s campus. However, one group seum, as well as the grounds and the Car and Carriage stood out among the rest and took home the win. And museum, has free entry. If you’re willing to pay, special while that one group may not have won TPN’s Best Of exhibition tickets are priced at $20 per student. While I competition this year, they are always a winner in my consider that to be somewhat pricey, I was impressed by heart. the curatorial expertise when I bought the ticket myself Clay Coast is a local band here in Pittsburgh with a to see the special exhibition. I hate to say it, but art is sound that resonates with fans of Lawrence, Owl City expensive. If you know you’d enjoy the exhibit, the ticket and the Beatles. I watched them perform a year ago now is worth the price. So go catch that 69 bus and explore a

u

itt_sgb @p

ww

FILL OUT THE FIX IT PITT FORM!

almost anywhere. When I see that a nationality room is open, I go in there. When I see that a little corner table is open, I go there. Some people might think that the Cathedral gets too loud at times, but there are so many different floors that you can go to. All you have to do is pick a spot, put your headphones on, do your work and let the ambiance fuel you.

When I’m in Frick or the Cathedral, I always do my work. I tend to not get distracted as much as I do in Hillman. I get distracted pretty easily, but I will lock in and do my homework when I’m in a good study space like Frick or the Cathedral.

Clay Coast performs at “Live from Oakland: Genesis” in Atwood Church on Feb. 3.

Ethan Shulman | Visual Editor

.s g b . p itt.

but have been stalking their Instagram page since, and their success is palpable. From what I recall from the Pitt Factor event, their stage presence was unmatched and their talent extreme. They brought down the house particularly with a groovy cover of Owl City’s “Fireflies,” a song that resonates with all us Gen Zers. As a longtime singer and musician myself, along with being a huge fan of funk music, I remember absolutely adoring the group for their unique use of the trumpet — an instrument not necessarily seen in the underground Pittsburgh music scene. They are fun, vivacious and, in their own words, “vibey.” With original songs and unorthodox covers of hits we all know and love, Clay Coast stands as a perfect addition to the vibrant Pittsburgh and Oakland music scenes.

Since their opening act for Jepsen, Clay Coast has had a steady performance schedule and played a little over a month ago at the inaugural Post Genre show.

Along with that, they have released a slew of original music, including an EP titled “Clocked Out.” Definitely check them out if you are looking for a groovy, funky band in the Pittsburgh area.

hidden corner of your city!

PA Taco Co. // Delaney Rauscher Adams, Staff Columnist My strong yet shockingly unpopular opinion is that PA Taco Co. is the best Pitt Eats meal swap location. I have been consistently surprised at people’s distaste for the taco place, as I often find myself frequenting the WPU for a bowl or chips and salsa.

The Union food court is the easiest and most central location for meal swaps, and out of the options available, I typically gravitate towards PA Taco Co. when choosing where to order from. The wait for mobile orders is almost never as long as Create or Wicked Pie, but the quality is just as good. From a chips and dip snack to a more filling meal, there is a good variety of options to choose from with the ingredients they offer. The bowls that come with the meal plan combo are yummy and are even better if you add on a side of chips. I can’t say they have the best guacamole in town, but I am a fan of the queso and love to add it on. Even if you aren’t into tacos, grabbing a fresh lemonade is always another great option.

The Frick Pittsburgh // Anna Ehlers, Contributing We all know that Pitt dining locations aren’t always Editor the most budget friendly, but PA Taco Co. always feels Out in the Point Breeze neighborhood, The Frick like enough food and is my favorite way to treat myself Pittsburgh features a plethora of interests — an art to a little break from the Eatery.

pittnews.com

March 20, 2024

10

pittnews.com

March 20, 2024

11

pittnews.com

March 20, 2024

12