Two Cars’ Tires Slashed on SXU Campus
Ghidaa Tareq News Reporter
Two incidents of intentional tire damage occurred between Feb. 2 and Feb. 3, 2026, in residential parking areas of Saint Xavier University (SXU)’s campus.
According to Chief of Police and Director of Campus Safety
Daniel Murphy, two vehicles had all four of their tires slashed over a two-day period. The incidents took place in Parking Lots 6 and 7, which are primarily designated for residential students.
At this time, officials say there is no evidence confirming the incidents are related, and no suspects have been identified.
One of the affected students, Spencer Mosher, said his vehicle was parked in Lot 7 in the middle row, “farthest to the left, if you’re facing L7.” He believes the damage may have occurred sometime late Friday night into early Saturday morning, though he cannot say for certain.
Mosher said he returned to campus around midnight after bowling Friday evening but did not check on his car again until Monday evening. When he first noticed the issue, he assumed the cold weather had caused his tires to go flat.
“I walk out, and I see my tires are flat. [...] All I could think is, ‘Oh man, the weather got them,’” Mosher said.
After contacting Campus Safety later that evening, officers suggested the tires may have been intentionally damaged. AAA was called to assist. Once the tires were filled, the cause became clear.
“They were like, ‘Yeah, there’s a slash mark in this tire. Someone definitely slashed them,’” Mosher said. He described the damage as a small incision, appearing to have been made by a pocketknife. All four tires were cut in a similar location.
Mosher said he does not
believe he was personally targeted.
“I really don’t think I’d piss anyone off on this campus,” he said, adding that he believes it was “probably just some kids doing some stupid stuff.”
He emphasized that he has not had any known conflicts on campus and said he would have preferred direct communication if there had been an issue. “If there was an issue, I hope they’d bring it up to me,” he said.
He also addressed whoever may have been responsible directly. “But if I did [make anybody mad], I’m sorry. And if you’re reading this right now and you’re hearing this quote, come find me, let’s talk about it.”
Murphy confirmed that, based on the investigation so far, the incidents appear to be random acts of property damage. No viable video evidence was
recovered from surveillance cameras near Lots 6 and 7.
Mosher’s vehicle was inoperable for about two days while it was towed and repaired. Although Campus Safety assisted by contacting AAA, the university did not provide financial assistance. Mosher stated his insurance covered the cost of repairs.
“The biggest thing was them calling AAA just for me to know that my tires were slashed,” he said, adding that he appreciated Public Safety’s effort. However, he noted that it took approximately one full day for Public Safety to return the report to him.
Despite the incident, Mosher said he continues to park in the same lot.
“I’m not changing where I’m parking,” he said. “I just think if something were to happen again, other courses of legal action might happen.”
In response to the vandalism, SXU Public Safety has increased patrols and will continue monitoring parking areas. The department encourages students to report suspicious activity immediately.
“It is important that the SXU community lock their cars, remove valuables from view, and park in well-lit areas when possible,” Murphy said. He also advised anyone who discovers damage to their vehicle to take photos, contact their insurance company, and notify Public Safety so an officer can respond and complete a report.
Murphy added that Public Safety remains committed to maintaining a safe campus environment and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Speaks to U.S. Congress with Organ Transplantation Society
John McNamara Editor-in-Chief
On Thursday, Feb. 12, Saint Xavier University (SXU) Communication professor and Director of Faculty Development Cyndi Grobmeier, Ed.D., along with fellow members of the American Society of Transplantation (AST), traveled to Washington, D.C. to speak with Congress about implementing more research and innovation for
immunosuppressive medications that transplant recipients take to avoid transplant rejection.
Grobmeier is the president of a nonprofit organization, Maddog Strong, that raises awareness about and advocates for organ and tissue donation. Grobmeier spoke at the meeting as the mother of an organ donor–her daughter, Maddie, passed away suddenly from an asthma attack the day after her eighteenth birthday, and the organization
was created by her parents in her honor.
Due to her heavy involvement in the organ and tissue donation space, Grobmeier became the second donor family representative for the Transplant Community Advisory Council (TCAC) of the AST, which, according to the AST website, “focuses on the Society’s pillars of advocacy, education, organ donation, research, and service to the community through the lens of the patient.”
Grobmeier describes the hearing: “They had a lot of voice in terms of transplant patient representation, but they also wanted to get the other perspective–so, myself and a living donor, [Zachary Sutton], were both invited to speak to our perspectives on how important it is for the transplant recipients to be able to have access to therapies that are going to help them thrive, not just survive. I think that was one of the key takeaways.”
Grobmeier also explained that there has been a lack of progress and innovation in
terms of immunosuppressive medication in comparison to other areas of healthcare, noting how there has not been a new immunosuppressant therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2012.
“Most transplant recipients are on a drug–the nickname is ‘tacro’–that drug’s been around for over thirty years. [...] It’s not because it’s the greatest drug ever–they’re just still using it because there has not been enough drive to innovate in this space, and pharmaceutical companies need incentive. They need to know that the drugs they bring to the market are going to be profitable because they’re for-
profit companies, and there just hasn’t been that incentivization in the transplant space to make that happen,” Grobmeier explained.
Grobmeier noted that while these drugs “are doing their job in terms of protecting the transplanted organ from being acutely rejected,” “they’re not helping patients in terms of longterm, chronic rejection and all of the other things that they face
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The Xavierite
SXU Professor Cyndi Grobmeier
Stab mark on tire
The Xavierite
Grobmeier, second from left, with living donor Yaisef Telsner (far left), kidney transplant surgeon Dr. John Gill (center), living donor and AST Transplant Community Program Manager Brooke Iarkowski (second from right), and heart recipient Tyler Chavez (far right) outside the U.S. Capitol Building on Feb. 12 Cyndi Grobmeier, Ed.D.
Professor Grobmeier, Ed.D., in the House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol building on Feb. 12 Cyndi Grobmeier, Ed.D.
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because of the side effects of these medications.”
The Communication professor reported that there was one House Rep. that she knew of present from Nebraska, who she says “was very moved” by what was discussed during the hearing.
“One of the gentlemen who presented did have a meeting with Tammy Duckworth’s health staffers afterwards, and they were very supportive,” Grobmeier recounted, noting how soon-tobe retiree Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, Duckworth’s longtime colleague, has also been a significant source of support over his 29-year tenure as senator.
Grobmeier says the committee’s next plans involve recruiting senators and representatives to reach out to the FDA about the issues raised during the Feb. 12 Congressional hearing on the AST’s behalf.
Opinions
The Importance of Research on Immunosuppressive Medications
On Feb. 12, Saint Xavier University (SXU) Professor Cyndi Grobmeier traveled to Washington, D.C. and spoke to Congress about the importance of increasing research for immunosuppressive therapies for organ/tissue transplant patients. The Xavierite Editorial Board then reflected on Grobmeier’s push for research and the importance of using our voices for what we believe in.
“I definitely think [organ donation and immunosuppressive therapies] are important issues. These can be used to give an individual a chance to live their life again, so I feel that alone makes it incredibly important,” one board member said.
While not every board member had extensive knowledge on the topic, each member recognized the importance of organ donation and the subsequent importance of research on immunosuppressive
“SXU Professor Cyndi Grobmeier Speaks to U.S. Congress with Organ Transplantation Society” (Continued from Page 1) -
therapies—treatments that help prevent rejection in transplant patients.
“I believed in a few myths about organ donation before learning more about it, [and I] feel many people would change their minds if they knew more about the process and its benefits,” explained another board member.
It’s clear that organ donation and immunosuppressive therapies affect more people than one might realize. Just within the editorial board, four members personally know someone who’s received a transplant or currently takes immunosuppressive medication.
When asked to reflect on Grobmeier’s action in front of Congress, the editorial board agreed it was an important and necessary thing to do to raise awareness.
However, the editorial board wasn’t unanimous in their
confidence in Congress to take the issue seriously.
“[...] I have a lot of doubts when it comes to Congress and their ability to make decisions for the better of the people,” said one board member.
“I believe [organ donation and immunosuppressive therapies] are fairly bipartisan issues, so I am hopeful that this won’t be something Congress will have to deliberate or argue over extensively,” said another board member.
Although not everyone agreed on Congress’s ability to raise awareness and prioritize these important issues, the whole board did agree that it’s still important for everyone to try and get their voice heard by politicians.
The power (hypothetically) lies with the people, and we can’t remain silent even if we’re faced with inaction and disappointment.
“We are lucky enough to live in a country where we can express our concerns, so it’s important that we take advantage of that opportunity,” said one board member.
“[Using our voices] is how change happens, and this has been proven time and time again through various social movements. Pressure is a necessary force for change,” said another board member.
The editorial board recognizes the importance of both research and awareness surrounding organ/tissue donation and immunosuppressive therapies. We commend Grobmeier for using her voice in front of Congress and encourage others to use their voice for good as well.
La caña, la colonia y la resistencia: el mensaje político de Bad Bunny en el escenario
Arlene Silva Opinions Columnist
El espectáculo comenzó donde comienza gran parte de la historia de Puerto Rico: en los campos de caña. La base del escenario, cubierta de cañaverales, no fue una simple decisión estética. Fue una declaración política. La caña de azúcar simboliza el inicio de la colonización española en la isla y las consecuencias devastadoras que siguieron. La economía azucarera convirtió a Puerto Rico y al Caribe en centros de explotación, donde la tierra se utilizó para enriquecer imperios, mientras las personas, especialmente los africanos esclavizados, pagaban el precio con su libertad, su cultura y sus vidas.
La caña representa el origen de un sistema colonial que explotó los recursos naturales de la isla para el beneficio económico de un imperio lejano. Ese imperio cambió de nombre con el tiempo, pero la lógica de explotación nunca desapareció. Primero fue España. Luego, Estados Unidos. Hoy, muchos puertorriqueños siguen viviendo las consecuencias de ese legado colonial, desde la dependencia económica hasta la fragilidad de su infraestructura.
El espectáculo luego se trasladó a Nueva York, el destino de miles de puertorriqueños que migraron en busca de oportunidades. Allí, Benito Martínez Ocasio, conocido como Bad Bunny, compartió un momento con Toñita, dueña del Caribbean Social Club en Brooklyn. Toñita no es solo una mujer tomando un trago; es un símbolo de resistencia. Su club es uno de los últimos establecimientos puertorriqueños en Williamsburg, un vecindario que alguna vez fue profundamente boricua y que hoy ha sido transformado por la gentrificación.
Mientras muchos fueron desplazados, ella se negó a irse. Su existencia es un acto de resistencia contra un sistema que constantemente borra la presencia latina para dar paso al
beneficio económico de otros. Su inclusión en el espectáculo fue un reconocimiento a la diáspora puertorriqueña y a su lucha por preservar su identidad. El momento más directo llegó cuando Ricky Martin interpretó “Hawái”, cantando la línea: “no quiero que hagan contigo lo que pasó en Hawái..” Esta frase dejó de ser una simple letra para convertirse en una advertencia. Hawái, al igual que Puerto Rico, es un territorio marcado por el colonialismo estadounidense, la explotación económica y el desplazamiento cultural. El mensaje fue claro: Puerto Rico enfrenta el mismo
peligro. Fue un llamado a la soberanía, a la descolonización y a la autodeterminación.
El espectáculo también hizo referencia a uno de los fracasos más visibles del colonialismo moderno: la red eléctrica de Puerto Rico. Los apagones constantes no son simplemente fallas técnicas; son el resultado de décadas de abandono, mala administración y explotación económica. Son el resultado de un sistema donde el pueblo no tiene control total sobre su propio destino.
Entonces, Bad Bunny emergió nuevamente de los campos de caña, pero esta
vez sosteniendo la bandera original de Puerto Rico, con el triángulo azul claro. Esta no es cualquier bandera. Es la bandera que representa la identidad puertorriqueña antes de que Estados Unidos impusiera el azul marino para reflejar su propia bandera. Durante años, la bandera puertorriqueña fue prohibida, y mostrarla era un acto criminal. Cambiar su color fue un intento de reescribir la identidad de un pueblo.
Al traer de vuelta el azul claro, Bad Bunny no solo mostró una bandera–mostró resistencia.
El espectáculo culminó con la representación de múltiples
banderas latinas, reconociendo a las comunidades que han sido históricamente marginadas, pero que siguen presentes. Y finalmente, el mensaje apareció: “Seguimos aquí.” Dos palabras que resumen siglos de historia. Seguimos aquí después de la esclavitud, colonización, migración y la gentrificación. Lo que Bad Bunny presentó no fue solo música. Fue memoria. Fue protesta. Fue resistencia. Y, sobre todo, fue un recordatorio de que, a pesar de todo, el pueblo latino nunca ha desaparecido.
Pam Bondi: The Disgraceful Face of the United States Department of Justice
John McNamara
Editor-in-Chief
If there are three things
the women of the Trump administration do best, they are sporting blinding bleach jobs,
dodging challenging questions, and berating anyone who proposes them.
Attorney General Pam Bondi in particular has been strikingly non-transparent and deflectory in her cover-up of the Epstein files, which explicate many of the horrors of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking ring. This lack of transparency was especially evident during the Feb. 11 House oversight hearing, during which she was supposed to testify on the Epstein files.
Bondi was called out for a number of things: 7th District of Washington House Rep. Pramila Jayapal confronted Bondi during the hearing about releasing unredacted names of Epstein survivors while redacting names of other perpetrators involved despite the Epstein Files Transparency Act, introduced by the House on Jul. 15, directing her to do the exact opposite.
Jayapal finished her statement urging Bondi to
apologize to the Epstein victims, many of which were sitting behind her during the hearing, for exposing their identities while keeping that of their abusers safely hidden.
Instead of answering Jayapal directly, Bondi immediately deflected and insisted that Jayapal and the rest of the members of Congress questioning her should have questioned Bondi’s predecessor, Democrat and former Attorney General Merrick Garland, about Epstein. Bondi asserted the committee was being unfair to her by questioning her about the Epstein files and not Garland–blatantly, arrogantly ignoring the content of the question regarding her failure to comply with an act of Congress.
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Bad Bunny carries a Puerto Rican flag for the “Benito Bowl” Super Bowl LX halftime show at Levi’s Stadium Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, Santa Clara, California.
Nick Wagner/The Seattle Times/TNS Pie de foto traducido al español: “Bad Bunny lleva una bandera de Puerto Rico para el espectáculo de medio tiempo del Super Bowl LX, el ‘Benito Bowl,’ en el Levi’s Stadium el domingo 8 de febrero de 2026, en Santa Clara, California, EE. UU.”
Nick Wagner/The Seattle Times/TNS Traducido por The Xavierite
Pam Bondi, nominee to be attorney general, testifies at a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025
Yuri Gripas/Abaca Press/TNS
(Continued from Page 3)
Not too long after, New York’s 12th district Rep. and Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee Jerry Nadler pressed the attorney general about her blind compliance to Trump, particularly in the case of Bondi’s Sept. 22 order appointing Lindsey Halligan as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia following the resignation of Erik Siebert after Trump publicly called on Bondi to appoint Halligan to the position.
Siebert was urged to resign by Trump after refusing to indict Letitia James, the woman who sued the Trump Administration for fraud in 2022, on account of the fact that he could find
no incriminating evidence to indict James upon investigation despite pressure from the Trump administration to go through with the indictment anyway.
Nadler also noted that Siebert, who had worked 15 years in federal law, was replaced with Lindsey Halligan, an attorney with no prosecutorial experience. He then confronted how Halligan immediately sought indictments against James, as well as former FBI Director James Comey, which a federal district court judge dismissed on Nov. 24 due to the fact that Halligan’s appointment was not approved by the Senate, a necessary part of the process to appoint a U.S. Attorney.
The DOJ then, Nadler mentions, sought two more indictments against James, which were both rejected by the grand juries assigned to the cases–
Nadler noted that it is “practically unheard of for a grand jury to refuse an indictment.”
Nadler soon thereafter proposed the following question: “How many of Epstein’s coconspirators have you indicted? How many perpetrators are you even investigating?”
Bondi, again, attempted to filibuster and completely avoid the question, accusing Nadler of “theatrics” when he and others on the committee argued for Nadler’s time to be returned, since Bondi had already at this point failed to answer most, if not all, challenging questions during this hearing in a direct manner.
Bondi then called 8th District of Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin, who also called her out for her filibustering, a “washedup loser lawyer” before Nadler finished his questioning by
asking about the DOJ’s firing of Maurene Comey, a main prosecutor on the Epstein case.
Bondi, in her classic fashion, answered with an immediate mention of the Mueller Investigation, asserting that Nadler, who played a big role in the investigation, and all others who were involved in it need to apologize to Trump.
The subordinates of Trump’s regime play one simple role: defend Donald Trump’s name at any and all costs. Anything that implicates Trump in any negative light must immediately be deemed a fabrication or outright lie, despite mountains of evidence to the contrary.
Even prominent rightwing figures as extreme as Kyle Rittenhouse have called for Bondi’s resignation, citing the Epstein coverup as the reason.
Bondi asserts that this second Trump administration is the “most transparent” in history–data proves otherwise. I am hopeful, as we are seeing a rise in Trump’s disapproval rating, which hints that the American people are seeing at an increasing rate the corruption this administration is, and has always been, all about.
As we are beginning to see legal action against Epstein’s affiliates, most notably the Feb. 19 arrest of former Prince Andrew in relation to his ties to Epstein, I do hope we can see this same sort of action be brought against Bondi and anyone else in obstruction of justice, as well as any and everyone else guilty of atrocities in relation to Epstein’s sex trafficking ring.
How Bad Bunny’s Halftime Performance Was More Than Just Music
Last Sunday, millions of people across the world sat down to watch the annual Super Bowl. While most people were excited because their favorite teams were playing, tons more were excited for the halftime show. This year, the entire world was buzzing with all kinds of emotions because of the 2026 halftime performer; Bad Bunny.
Back in September of 2025, the NFL announced the 2026 Super Bowl halftime performer would be global Latino icon Bad Bunny.
There was an immediate outburst about the NFL’s
decision. Lots of people were excited that someone as popular and talented as Bad Bunny was going to be performing at an event as big as the Super Bowl, but there was also tons of backlash from people who thought that there could’ve been someone better.
Those who opposed Bad Bunny being the halftime performer claimed that it should’ve been an American artist. Despite being of Puerto Rican descent and therefore an American citizen, many were still upset that Bad Bunny was performing.
When the Super Bowl finally came, there was more than just excitement amongst fans.
In the months leading up to the Super Bowl, ICE raids and the violence resulting from them got out of hand, to say the least. Innocent people were murdered in broad daylight, and the people being detained either went “missing” or were put in questionable prisons.
Bad Bunny had spoken up about this issue at the Grammy’s saying “ICE out,” and “We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens—we’re humans, and we’re Americans.”
His words left people feeling hopeful and anxious to see what he was going to do at the Super Bowl.
As the show began, fans were thrilled to see that Bad
Bunny was incorporating the same impactful and meaningful storytelling techniques that he uses in his concerts. He also kept his promise that he made a while back when he was announced to be this year’s performer; he sang and spoke only in Spanish, the first to do so in Super Bowl history.
His show was not only full of fun references to Latino culture but also included important messages that are relevant in today’s political climate.
He sang many songs from his Grammy-winning album “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS,” which is a love letter and message to the world about his home country Puerto Rico.
The halftime show ended with him saying “God Bless America” and naming every country in the Americas and the Caribbean.
Bad Bunny’s message of love and unity touched the hearts of many around the world, not just his Latino viewers.
In any other circumstance, the halftime show would just be considered a performance honoring Latino culture. However, because of the current circumstances, it was more than that. It was a performance that will be remembered for years to come—not just for his amazing talent, but for his courage and reminding the world “segumios aqui.”
“Pam Bondi: The Disgraceful Face of the United States Department of Justice”
Perla Cobos Opinions Columnist
Bad Bunny performs for the “Benito Bowl” Super Bowl LX halftime show at Levi’s Stadium Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.
Jennifer Buchanan/The Seattle Times/TNS
“The Pitt” Season 2 Marks a Successful Return
Grace Tynski Deputy Editor-in-Chief
After thirteen Emmy nominations and five wins for its first season, “The Pitt” had a lot to live up to when Season 2 premiered on Jan. 8, 2026. Six episodes of Season 2 have been released since then, and none of them have disappointed.
“The Pitt” cemented itself as a mainstay in the medical drama genre when it exploded in popularity last year. It was lauded by both critics and general audiences for its suspense and realistic portrayal of the grueling reality of working in a hospital.
Love for “The Pitt” partially comes from the fact that it’s the last of a dying breed in terms of modern television.
Unlike most other series right now, “The Pitt” releases weekly episodes instead of a whole season all at once. Last year, this greatly contributed to its growth in popularity.
Similarly, “The Pitt” seems to be on schedule for a season premiere each year. Season 1 premiered in Jan. of 2025, and Season 2 returned in Jan. of 2026. This sort of production schedule is less and less common in the streaming era, even though audiences respond well to it.
“The Pitt” also doesn’t rely on big names for success;
Daniel Justic Features Contributor
Can a career of recording yourself playing video games translate into writing, producing, and starring in a feature length film? For YouTuber Markiplier, the answer is a resounding yes.
Released Jan. 30, 2026, “Iron Lung” is the first film in Markiplier’s (Mark Fischbach) filmmaking career and is a direct adaptation of the 2022 indie game of the same name created by David Szymanski.
Overall, I enjoyed the film a lot.
Is it a remarkable piece of its time? No. Is it the worst movie I’ve ever seen? Far from it. It’s simply a good film.
The story follows humanity through the fallout of an event known as the “Quiet Rapture”—a moment when moons, stars, and even planets suddenly vanished, leaving humanity on the brink of extinction.
Only space ships and stations survived, so the remaining humans began conducting missions to explore the few ruined moons remaining in search of samples of life to ensure humanity’s survival.
We follow one of these humans–a convict named Simon. Sent to an “ocean of blood” on a barren moon as punishment for his crimes, Simon mans a submarine alone.
Joined by various voices
most of the cast members were unknown actors when they got their roles. All of these factors coalesced into the perfect storm for its first season to take off, but I was weary of how Season 2 would keep the momentum going.
Just like Season 1, Season 2 of “The Pitt” is divided into 15 episodes—each one representing an hour of a shift at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. Season 2 takes place over Fourth of July weekend, which adds a whole new level of stress to an already anxiety-inducing show.
Throughout the first six episodes of Season 2, “The Pitt” hits the same beats which made its first season a triumph. It also takes the chance to introduce new characters and expand on
the ones we know and love. Season 2’s best moments have come from its continuation of Season 1’s dedication to honesty. “The Pitt” doesn’t hold back when depicting the U.S. healthcare system in action.
From a family at a loss for how they’ll pay their hospital bills to unhoused patients coming in off the street, “The Pitt” commits to a realistic portrayal of what a typical shift in an American hospital looks like.
Everyone appreciates when a series is timeless, but I think it’s equally impressive when a series is timely. “The Pitt” has its finger on the pulse of modern America and serves as a microcosm of our current
healthcare system.
In this new season, several scenes feel like they were pulled directly from life.
A new character, Dr. AlHashimi (Sepideh Moafi), wants to introduce her coworkers to a new AI-powered app to help them log their patients’ medical charts. As you can guess, she’s met with several strong opinions.
“The Pitt” doesn’t often try to make an overarching political statement, but rather shows these issues from every possible angle. More than anything, the series emphasizes compassion and unity in the face of hardship.
In a particularly touching scene, a patient reveals she is
“The
Iron Lung Movie Review
through an intercom which cut in and out as he loses connection, a lot of the film is just us, Simon, and the “Iron Lung” he calls home.
Simon knows the same as us about his mission, that being little to nothing. This elicits a sense of dread which is enhanced by his own emotions.
With that comes what I’d say is the film’s strongest aspect: its ability to build suspense.
There are countless moments where Simon slowly comes to a realization only to then realize he was too late in acting. This makes the film constantly feel like it’s leading to a distressing situation.
The sounds provided by the setting only serve to enhance isolation.
The groaning creeks of the metal hull, the constant ticking of the sub’s instruments, and the occasional drip of blood leaking in all give the sense that something is approaching.
Throughout the film, Simon is pursued by a grotesque creature which occasionally attacks his sub and his mind.
Slowly falling into mental and physical turmoil, he argues with himself as to what’s real and whether or not he’ll be able to survive.
While the film tries to make us feel sorry for Simon, it also makes it clear that he is not a good person. The revelation of his crimes later in the film mixed with flashbacks and many
interactions he has all characterize him in a bad light.
In regards to the film’s origin, Markiplier became inspired to create the film after playing the game in his 2023 YouTube video.
I haven’t played the game, only watching Markiplier’s video prior to my viewing of the film, but from what I watched it is a very faithful adaptation. While faithful, the film also builds on much of what the game leaves out, diving us deeper into the universe.
This is an incredible accomplishment, but it can also be what makes the film fall flat
for some.
Those who have played the game or watched playthroughs will love this film. For those unfamiliar with both, it may come off as confusing.
Another area that made the film fall off, the setting took away from my ability to process what was happening.
As every voice outside of Simon’s comes to fruition through a static-filled intercom, flashbacks, or in his mind, it can be very hard to understand what is being said.
There is intention with that to play into the sense of dread, but the unclear dialogue
a survivor of the Tree of Life synagogue shooting, which took place in Pittsburgh in 2018. Although the patient and her story are fictional, the shooting is not.
The patient notices nurse Perlah (Amielynn Abellera), who wears a hijab. The patient then tells Perlah, “After the shooting, it was the Muslims that came together for us in support and walked with us. [...] Thank you.”
This scene rings true and shines a light on reallife solidarity. After the real shooting in 2018, Pittsburgh’s Muslim community raised over $200,000 for the shooting victims and their families.
This is just one example of “The Pitt” highlighting instances of human connection and perseverance through struggle.
The acting, writing, and directing of the series are all great, but it’s the heartfelt moments like these that put the series in a league of its own.
So far, Season 2 of “The Pitt” is living up to the high expectations set by its first season. If it keeps heading down this path—pairing quality production with honesty and heart—I wouldn’t be surprised to see more Emmy wins in its future.
New episodes of “The Pitt” premiere every Thursday on HBO Max.
did become distracting. Overall, this is an incredible starting point for Markiplier and his filmmaking career.
I very much enjoyed the movie, but it’s not something I would recommend to everyone. If you are interested, I would start by playing the game yourself or watching his initial video, then view the movie so you have a clearer understanding. Iron Lung is playing in theaters now and will be released on streaming following its theatrical run.
Pitt” page on HBO Max
The Xavierite
“Who Killed These Women?” documentary reexamines the Lane Bryant Murders
Niki Kowal Features Reporter
On February 2, 2008, five women were executed inside a suburban Illinois department store.
The gunman disappeared without a trace.
Eighteen years later, on February 13, 2026, a filmmaker released a documentary dedicated to the victims– not the killer– in hopes of reigniting public interest and finally bringing answers to a case that has haunted the South Suburbs for nearly two decades.
What began as an ordinary winter afternoon in Tinley Park, just 16 miles from Saint Xavier University, turned into one of the most disturbing unsolved crimes in Illinois history.
Inside the Lane Bryant store at the Brookside Marketplace shopping center, five women were shot and killed in what authorities described as a calculated, coldblooded attack.
The victims were Jennifer L. Bishop, 34; Carrie Hudek Chiuso, 33; Rhoda McFarland, 42, the store manager; Sarah T. Szafranski, 22; and Connie R. Woolfolk, 37. Each woman was more than a headline or statistic. They were daughters, mothers, friends, coworkers and their ordinary lives were violently cut short.
The case remains unsolved.
In 2026, filmmaker Charlie Minn brought renewed attention to the tragedy. Minn is known for producing documentaries centered on unsolved or overlooked cases across the United States. His work often emphasizes victims’ stories while urging the public and law enforcement not to let cases fade into obscurity.
Through interviews, archival footage, and a detailed timeline of the investigation, his latest film attempts to humanize the five women and reintroduce their stories to a generation that may not remember the headlines of 2008.
For some viewers, that mission is enough.
For other viewers, not all reactions have been positive.
Some viewers described the documentary as disappointing through Facebook comments, citing what they saw as a lack of new information. “Saw it last night, quite disappointing I must say… No new information. Don’t bother,” one commenter wrote. Another agreed, adding that the reenactment portions felt “ridiculous” and that the opening was confusing.
More pointed criticism focused on the filmmaker’s tone. Several viewers expressed discomfort with what they perceived as aggressive criticism of the Tinley Park Police Department.
One commenter questioned the
expectation that law enforcement would release details from an active investigation, writing, “Sir, please tell me what law enforcement agency is going to give away details on a still active investigation?”
Others raised concern about the documentary’s attention to the lone survivor, arguing that pursuing her story so publicly could risk retraumatizing someone who has already endured unimaginable trauma.
These critiques raise important questions about the ethics of true crime storytelling.
When does renewed attention become necessary advocacy–and when might it feel
like intrusion? How should filmmakers balance public accountability with sensitivity toward survivors and families?
Minn’s documentary positions itself as a call to action. By spotlighting inconsistencies, unanswered questions, and the emotional toll on the community, the film aims to apply pressure for justice. At the same time, its reception illustrates the delicate line true crime creators walk. In cases that remain unsolved, every detail carries weight. Every public theory has an impact.
For nearly two decades, the Lane Bryant murders have remained one of Illinois’ most chilling unsolved cases. Time
has not lessened the grief. It has only deepened the need for closure.
Whether the documentary ultimately generates new leads remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the five women lost on that February afternoon are still remembered–not just as victims, but as people whose absence continues to echo through their families and their community.
As another anniversary passes, the question remains: will renewed attention finally bring answers, or will this case continue to linger in silence?
The Strip Club Photobooth Studio Grand Opening
Videographer
I recently took a visit to the Strip Club Photobooth Studio for its grand opening in Bucktown on Feb 6. It is located at 1702 N. Damen Avenue.
The studio specializes in vintage photobooths, with five analog photobooths and six digital vintage-inspired photobooths. It has one of the oldest operating photobooths in the country.
Each photobooth is $7 per machine and produces single or multiple photostrips depending on the machine. Options include black and white and color photo strips; color is only available for the digital photobooths.
I went to the photobooth studio with my close friend, Deisy Padilla. We went
around 1 p.m and found it was a fast wait for the photobooths.
One of the owners, Andrea Vizzari, told us the wait for the oldest photobooth was the longest. My friend and I waited about 15 minutes for two people. Wait times differed depending on the number of people taking pictures.
The first photobooth Padilla and I tried was one of the photobooth’s more unique offerings—not a strip but a 4 x 6 photo with a heart shaped filter.
This filter caught my eye immediately and the photo remains one of my favorites from the studio.
The other photobooths were relatively similar but had their own quirks, such as a fast speed camera and one that produces three tearable strips.
My favorite was the oldest photobooth; it is referred to as “Lady” and was built in 1946. The photobooth produces a single strip that comes out of a spherical orb.
My friend and I made the unfortunate mistake of using the dark curtain rather than the white background. The camera makes darker colors appear very dark, so it may not be the best for capturing details on deep skin tones.
I did enjoy the “vintage” look of it though, it is one of the more unique film strips I’ve seen. It is longer and thinner than usual film strips you’d encounter, and comes out wet due to the film development process.
I will say, this studio is the type of place where you get in and get out rather than linger. It’s a smaller building and can
easily get cramped with more people.
I was lucky to get in during a slow hour, but passed by later the same day and witnessed a line going out the door.
It does have many charms, including a vending machine with camera related trinkets and merch items inside. I bought a miniature keychain camera that has quickly become one of my prized possessions. Best of all—it is fully functional.
I had a wonderful time at the Strip Club Photobooth’s grand opening and highly recommend anyone interested in film and photobooths to take a visit.
It’s a fun trip for a girls night out or a date night. I recommend going earlier in the day for better wait times, especially for the oldest photobooth.
Charlie Minn discusses new documentary at Saint Xavier University
The Xavierite
Samantha Alcala
Cougars Pick Up Where They Left Off With 7-2 Start
Noah Blizniak Sports Contributor
Saint Xavier University (SXU)’s Men’s Volleyball team has been on a tear to start the 2026 season. After stumbling out the gate 1-2 in a challenging road trip to California—where they suffered early losses to The Master’s University and Concordia University Irvine— the Cougars have responded in convincing fashion, emerging as the winners of five consecutive ranked matchups.
Since returning home, the surge has cemented them as the 2nd ranked team in the country, anchored by 2025 NAIA Player of the Year, Matt Penala. Over their nine-game stretch, he’s recorded 3.80 kills per set (K/S), putting him at 16th in the NAIA, with similar enthusiasm on the defensive end, adding 1.83 digs per set (DIG/S) and 18 blocks.
These respectively rank second and third for the Cougars, with two-way ability that’s allowed SXU to find their rhythm in all phases.
This productive play extends well beyond Penala.
Caydann Cox is averaging 3.13 K/S with 21 blocks to add, and setter Cameron Daniels
ranks 10th in the NAIA with 9.97 assists per set (A/S), operating at the helm of one of NAIA’s most efficient offenses. Tyson Myers leads the Cougars with 28 blocks, while Andre Velez contributes 2.80 DIG/S, giving the Cougars a stout defensive presence to match their offensive firepower.
As a unit, they’re hitting
0.302% on the season—8th in the NAIA—underscoring their staggering efficiency as a team, which has allowed them to capture 18 sets to only 2 losses over the last six games.
This run matches the standard the program has established over the past two seasons, with only three losses to attribute to them
With matchups vs Calumet College of St. Joseph (Ind.) and Saint Ambrose University
(Iowa) approaching next week, the Cougars look to secure early positioning in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC).
For a team already entrenched in the national rankings, the challenge is now maintaining that standard.
Cougars Find Their Stride Once Again
Leonardo Alvarez-Salgado Sports Editor
After a 1-5 start to the year, the Cougars baseball team have gone back to their winning ways by going on a six game win streak to get to above .500 for the first time since their 1-0 start.
It’s still very early in the season, but the Cougars have already been tested by having to overcome an underwhelming first couple of games.
The winning streak began when Saint Xavier University (SXU) took down Calvary University in a 9-5 win followed by a comeback against No.23 Columbia College (Mo.) to split the series at Battle in the Hills.
Down three heading into the bottom of the six, the Cougars took advantage of a couple of miscues from Columbia College to score four unanswered runs; this includes the go-ahead run on a sacrifice fly by redshirt freshman infielder Jackson Michko.
On Feb. 13, SXU went down to Alton, IL to begin a four game series against University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy in St. Louis. During the four game series, the Cougars offense ignited, scoring 40 runs and bringing their season run total to 74. Pitchers also held their ground, allowing just seven runs while striking out 27.
In Game 1, senior pitcher Trent Markezich was dialed in,
going all seven innings, with four strikeouts, and allowing just two runs on four hits helping him secure his second win of the season. Junior pitcher Cole Martz followed up that performance with a strong outing of his own, going six scoreless innings with
four strikeouts. The bullpen closed out the game to record SXU’s first shutout of the season in a 8-0 win.
Games 3 and 4 were nothing short of amazing as the offense combined for 25 runs, including their first home run of the season by Jackson Michko
in Game 3. This was followed by their second home run in Game 4 from senior outfielder Ryan O’Farrell.
The Cougars will take their 7-5 record and six game win streak to Marshall, MO as they face Missouri Valley College for three games beginning on Feb. 21. and a National Championship appearance in 2025. Entering conference play, the Cougars are looking to build off their dominant start to the season and carry that momentum into the second half of 2026.
As the season goes on there will be a lot of ups and downs, but the good teams are the ones who can overcome those setbacks. Through the first 12 games of the season, we have already learned a lot about this team: they are resilient, determined, and frankly, very exciting to watch.
Senior OF/IF Shea Zbrozek
SXU Athletics
Junior OH, Caydann Cox serves against Georgetown College SXU Athletics
Cougars Celebrate Senior Day With a Win
Dolapo Ogunleye Sports Reporter
Believe it or not, we have made it to this point of the season where the regular season is coming to an end. Which means that these are the last few games ever for all SXU seniors on the basketball squad.
It’s only right for Saint Xavier to honor their seniors and give them a proper farewell and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.
The senior Cougars were able to present themselves and their loved ones together at center court and be showered with a standing ovation from the crowd.
On Valentine’s day, the seniors were able to share their love for the game as they thought back to freshman year and how far they came along to today. Reminiscing their favorite moments with teammates, coaching staff, and their most memorable game.
Although the day is special and the festivities ran all day, a game still had to be played and it was time to win.
The Cougars saw themselves going up against the University of St. Francis (Ill.) one of their conference rivals. Before the game, the St. Francis Bulldogs held an impressive record of 18-6 and in SXU’s previous meeting against the Bulldogs, they fell short by one point.
It was important for the Cougars to rally together and pull off an impressive win on Senior day. Which they ultimately did, beating the Bulldogs with a final score of 85-69. The Cougars now stand at a record of 11-14 and a conference record of 9-9.
It was only right that the seniors stood out and dominated this ballgame as we saw outstanding performances from seniors, Davion Lawrence, Ashton Atwater, and Jerry Abushanab. Lawrence led all scorers with a career high 24 points and grabbed four rebounds. Lawrence was on fire, shooting 8/11 (72%) from the field and hitting four threes in the match.
Atwater finished the game with 23 points, four assists, and two rebounds. Atwater shot 8/13 (62%) from the field and knocked down all six free throw attempts.
Abushanab finished the match with 11 points and tied with junior forward Marko Tojagic for a game high seven rebounds.
Abushanab spoke on what it takes from him as a player to continue to win and be the kind
of teammate his guys need.
“Just continue to bring contagious energy no matter the circumstances… basketball is a chaotic and unpredictable sport so staying level headed gets rewarded throughout the course of games.”
Saint Xavier honored seniors, Jerry Abushanab, Ashton Atwater, Mason Kibelkis, Davion Lawrence, Grant Martin, Ike Nwaobi, DJ Shelton, and Mekhi Wilson.
With two more games remaining on the schedule, the Cougars intend on finishing the season strong. They’ll be matched up against Calumet College of St. Joseph (Ind.) looking to sweep the season series. Action takes place on the road, heading to Whiting, Indiana on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 7:00 PM.
SXU Seniors and Their Family Members Grouped Together to Celebrate Senior Day
SXU Athletics
