Friday, April 29, 2022 Print Edition

Unity March brings community together

POV: Being culturally different isn’t bad

POV: The forgotten team across the street

NEWS | PG. 6

FEATURES | PG. 7

SPORTS| PG. 15

The

TANGERINE

VOL. LXXV, ISSUE 15

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

UTICATANGERINE.COM

Utica University names 2022 valedictorians ◊ MATTHEW BREAULT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Utica University has recently named the valedictorians for the May 2022 undergraduate commencement ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, May 12 at 5 p.m at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.

The Class of 2022’s valedictorians are Carissa Jade Andrews and Anna N. Jordan. This year, there will not be a salutatorian for the Class of 2022 because both

pursue a master’s degree in Special Education at Utica University.

Utica University Class of 2022. /Photo: Isabella Hudziak

Andrews and Jordan maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout their academic careers at Utica University.

Andrews will graduate this spring with a

bachelor’s degree in Psychology Child Life.

She is a Mohawk Valley native, as she is from Rome and graduated from Notre Dame Jr/ Sr High School. After graduation, Andrews will

“I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to Anna for all of her hard work and accomplishments,’’ Andrews said. “I am very grateful to share this opportunity with her. This is truly such a blessing and I am very humbled by this honor because I know it is only by the grace of our Creator, YHWH, that I am even writing this.

SEE VALEDICTORIANS PG. 4

Utica Softball Head Coach Pat Mineo to retire at end of season ◊ MATTHEW BREAULT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ◊ EMILY JOSS SPORTS EDITOR

Pat Mineo, the man who has been at the helm of Utica University softball since the 2005 season, is set to retire after 17 seasons as head coach.

Mineo, who will turn 75 in May, has been one of the most successful Utica coaches in recent memory. In fact, Mineo is one of just three

Utica Softball Head Coach Pat Mineo. /Photo: Utica Pioneers

active coaches at the university who has more than 300 wins in his coaching career, while

also becoming the first of those three to earn the 300th win back in April 2021.

After battling some back injuries over the past couple years and other personal reasons, Mineo decided it was time to walk away from the game he spent more than 35 years coaching.

Mineo’s retirement will be official on May 31, and he has mixed feelings about it.

“It’s really tough to walk away from the game, but for every pro, SEE MINEO PG. 5

PAGE 2

STAFF

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

Spring 2022 STAFF

@UticaTangerine @Utica_Tangerine @Utica_Tangerine

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Editor-In-Chief - Matthew Breault Layout Editor - Thomas Caputo Managing News Editor - Isabella Hudziak Features Editor - Hollie David Sports Editor - Emily Joss Photographer - Alexandria Leland General Assignments - Morgan Hinman Special Assignments - Mickale Thompson Tangerine Clerk - Charles Buckley Circulation Manager - Emily Allard Adviser - Mary Christopher

About The Tangerine is published biweekly during the academic year by and for Utica University students. To reach a member of the staff, email tanger@utica.edu or call 315-792-3065. All material printed in The Tangerine is copyrighted. The Tangerine was first published as the Utica College News on Nov. 6, 1946.

Submission Policy Letters to the editor are welcomed from all members of the Utica University community.

Letters must meet fair and accurate publishing standards and contain no libelous material.

Anonymous letters to the editor will not be printed. All letters and editorials must meet the print deadline of 5 p.m. on Mondays. Please send all submissions to tanger@utica.edu.

Takeback requests are a form of censorship and therefore not accepted.

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The opinions and columns expressed in The Tangerine are those of the individual writers and do not represent the views of The Tangerine or Utica University.

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NEWS

PAGE 3 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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Bookstore offering new “UU” merchandise ◊ CHARLES BUCKLEY TANGERINE CLERK

Sam Shaikh, a senior at Utica University. “I hope they start supplying shot glasses with the branding as well.”

Since the announcement of Utica College transitioning to Utica University, many students wondered when the merchandise would be rebranded and available in the campus bookstore.

However, to a lot of students’ delight, the campus bookstore recently unveiled new merchandise.

The merchandise included t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts and a hoodie with the new font for Utica Pioneers, as well as brand new Utica University logo on the hoodies.

The new merchandise is being sold for set prices: t-shirts are available for $22, long-sleeved t-shirts for $28 and hoodies for $46.

Bookstore

employees

Some students hope that the bookstore will still carry Utica College merchandise, for nostalgia purposes.

New Utica University merchandise. /Photo: Thomas Caputo

said while the new merchandise is starting to become available, products have been delayed due to material shortages, so it’s unlikely that more Utica University merchandise won’t be available in the store until the fall semester.

Students hope that once more merchandise

with the new branding becomes available in store, sales would begin on old branded merchandise with the UC or Utica College logo.

“It’s nice to have updated stuff and it doesn’t make sense to buy Utica College merch if it’s not Utica College anymore,” said

“I just got one of the new hoodies a couple of days ago and it’s nice to see the update,” said Connor Canell, a sophomore at Utica University. “While seeing the new merchandise taking over the store will be nice, I do hope they keep some of the old branding in the store.”

For more information regarding the new merchandise, prices, and other general questions, contact the bookstore at (315) 7923197 or email them at bookst@utica.edu.

Campus Safety Blotter Date Of Incident

Time Of Incident

Short Description

Building

4/16/2022

3:20 AM

Motor Vehicle Accident

Parking Lot

4/16/2022

10:00 AM

Motor Vehicle Damage

Parking Lot

4/16/2022

5:20 AM

Property Damage

Boehlert Hall

4/17/2022

1:10 AM

Reckless Driving

Parking Lot

4/18/2022

5:05 PM

Motor Vehicle Damage

Parking Lot

4/19/2022

9:15 AM

Parking Tickets

Parking Lot

4/22/2022

10:15 AM

Vehicle Break-In

Parking Lot

4/22/2022

4:15 PM

Fire Alarm

South Hall

4/23/2022

7:15 PM

Dangerous Activity

Pioneer Village

4/26/2022

8:00 PM

Prohibited Items

North Hall

NEWS

PAGE 4

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

VALEDICTORIANS FROM PG. 1 So many students here have worked so hard and their achievements should not be overlooked.

Being valedictorian actually has little to do with me, but much to do with the whole campus community and beyond, and everything to do with YHWH. This title means that an example is set for others, and to be able to have this opportunity is so much more than I could ever ask for.”

Jordan

will

graduate

with a bachelor’s degree in Health Studies.

She is from Candor, New York, where she was homeschooled prior to attending Utica University. Jordan has already transitioned into the master’s program in Occupational Therapy at Utica, where she will continue her advanced coursework in the coming year with the goal of graduating in May 2023.

“I am so excited and honored to be one of the valedictorians of the Class of 2022, and

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I want to congratulate Carissa Andrews on her accomplishment as well,” Jordan said.

“When I first received the email from the Provost’s office with the news, I immediately called my mom, because this achievement belongs to her as much as it belongs to me.”

As a first generation college student who was homeschooled by a single mother, Jordan said her achievements were made possible by her mother’s sacrifices.

“I’m proud of myself, but I’m even prouder to be her daughter,” she said.

“This accomplishment means so much to me because of how hard my mom has worked to help me get here.”

The background information about the valedictorians for the Class of 2022 was taken from a letter Utica University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Todd Pfannestiel sent to Utica University President Laura Casamento.

NEWS

PAGE 5 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022 MINEO FROM PG. 1

I also find a con for why I should step away,” Mineo said. “I do want to spend some extra time with my wife, my children and my friends too. I think my friends are more excited about me announcing my retirement because now they can call me and know that I don’t have excuses for why I can’t come over.”

In his career as head coach of the softball team, he has 318 career wins as of April 27, including six seasons of more than 20 wins and two seasons of more than 30 wins. One of Mineo’s best seasons as head coach came in 2006, where he led the program to an impressive 31-11 overall record, while winning his first of two Empire 8 Conference Coach of the Year awards.

During the 2013 season, Mineo also led the team to not only a program best 34-14 overall record, but also coached the team to its first ever bid to the NCAA Tournament, and first ever NCAA Tournament win.

Other notable accomplishments of Mineo include: • Two-time Empire 8 Coach of the Year (2006, 2013) • Placing nearly 100 student-athletes on All-Conference Teams

• Having guided four players to the conference’s top honors (Rookie of the Year 2011, 2013; Player of the Year 2013, 2018) • Eight seasons

winning

“It’s been a really nice run for me and it has been a really enjoyable experience,” Mineo said. “Coaching the games has been the most fun part of the job and actually being with the players after the games, win or lose, is a lot of fun and they’re just a joy to be around.”

Kari Beane, the pitching coach for Utica University’s softball team, said she has known Mineo for 33 years and has shared numerous memories with him both on and off the softball field.

“Mineo was my travel softball coach for years, and I even watched Mineo be inducted into the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) Hall of Fame,” Beane said. “I have worked alongside Mineo at Utica University for 15 years and I have been his pitching coach for 13 years. It is hard for me to imagine Utica softball without Coach Mineo.”

Beane also reflected on the moments she shared with Mineo specifically off the field.

“We have laughed, argued and we have cried together,” Beane said. “He has not

UTICATANGERINE.COM

only been my coach, coworker, boss and friend; he has been like a father to me. I will miss seeing him everyday.

I love him and hope he gets to travel and spend time with Linda and his family.”

Another member of the Utica University softball community who is sad to see Mineo retire is alumnus Danielle Alpi.

Alpi is a 2015 graduate of then Utica College and served as an assistant coach under Mineo, who she said was the best person she has ever worked for and is the best boss anyone could ever ask for.

“He treats his coaches, trainers and players all like his family and he welcomes you in, keeps you motivated and truly inspired me to love the game of softball in more than just one perspective,” Alpi said.

“Coach’s love for the game is infectious and his knowledge, work ethic and want for Utica to be best, really drove me as an assistant coach to be more for the team. He inspired me to work as tirelessly as he did, and he made one of the most stressful jobs incredibly fun and rewarding.”

Alpi also said Mineo has been one of the most important people in her life and he taught her the value of hard work and that if she put in the effort with players, they would give her the same effort back on the

field.

“Coach taught me that while work is important and needs to get done, it is important to take care of yourself before you can take care of others,” she said. “Most importantly, he taught me how to share that with our team and he allowed me to grow into a leader and grow into my position as a coach. Coach made my time with him the most memorable job I have had to date and to me, he will always be my best friend.”

Throughout his tenure at Utica University, Mineo developed many relationships with all those who were around him. With that being said, he was adamant about returning to Utica softball games as a fan, because the best part of the game to him was being around the girls every day.

“As a retiring coach, the part I will miss the most is being around these girls,” Mineo said.

“They come and see me and come and talk to me, and I’ll be there for the good times with them. To come and see them, give them a hug and laugh with them. I won’t be there to coach, because my coaching days are over and I am not coaching and doing anything with softball other than to watch it on T.V., and come and watch Utica play softball, if it’s warm.”

PAGE 6

NEWS

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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Utica’s Unity March brings local community together ◊ ALEXANDRIA LELAND PHOTOGRAPHER

On April 21, Utica University and the Utica DEI Community Partnership held a March for Unity in the city of Utica. Members of the community united and assembled at Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency and walked toward City Hall.

The Unity March was held to recognize an

event that happened 31 years ago to students of color at Utica University who were attacked with malicious letters. In response, students, faculty and staff came together to take a stand against dehumanization and injustice with a symbolic form of protest, a march.

Around 50 participated

people in last

week’s .6 mile march, led by Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Anthony Baird.

Wynn Hospital and the Tower of Hope standing as the event’s backdrop.

“U-N-I-T-Y!” chanted Baird and the participants along the route.

Utica University President Laura Casamento said this event was just the beginning of the area’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

When they arrived at Utica City Hall, participants and attendees mingled and listened to guest speakers with City Hall, the under-construction

“We march today for our steadfast c o m m i t m e n t , ” Casamento said.

Participants in the midst of the Unity March on Court Street in downtown Utica. /Photo: Alexandria Leland

Utica University’s Vice President of DEI Anthony Baird leads the march from M.V.C.A.A. to Utica’s City Hall. /Photo: Alexandria Leland

Denis Toussaint, Trevor Anderson and Alyssa Lombardo of Utica University show their support during the Unity March. /Photo: Alexandria Leland

Dr. Montgomery of SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Mayor of Utica Robert Palmieri, President of MVCC Dr. Randy VanWagoner, and President of Utica University Dr. Laura Casamento take a selfie outside M.V.C.A.A. before the Unity March begins. /Photo: Alexandria Leland

FEATURES

PAGE 7 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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POV: Being culturally different isn’t bad ◊ MICKALE THOMPSON SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS REPORTER ◊ HANNAH STEYN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

That period of adjusting will never end.

Mickale Thompson’s POV: The task of adjusting to a new culture, new environment and a new way of life is challenging because it takes a lot of sacrifices.

Coming from a different country, I knew that the adjustment period would take some time due to the differences between American and Jamaican cultures. I knew that I had to embrace this transition and have an open mind to the new culture, which at times was challenging.

My brief stint in high school was interesting and came as a culture shock in many ways.

The structure in which the school was built was different – students in the cafeteria seemingly sat in the same place with the same social group every day, and among all those social groups and spaces, I didn’t have a place.

The reactions from people when I mention that I’m from a different country often come as a surprise. The questions people ask when I tell them I am from Jamaica leave me befuddled.

One of my favorites is, “how and when did you learn English?” Jamaica is an English-speaking country. I find it interesting that America is one of

Photo of Mickale Thompson. /Photo: Alexandria Leland

Photo of Hannah Steyn in South Africa. /Photo: Hannah Steyn

the most multicultural countries in the world, yet there is such a lack of knowledge and lack of awareness that comes from some Americans, and oftentimes the questions they ask are honestly shocking.

Cultural identity is important for all of us, but when we are talking about immigrants such as myself, our cultural identities are put to the test and altered because of the new surroundings we are introduced to.

We all hear the term that immigrants are considered “outsiders.”

Because of that, we must constantly adjust to others while they don’t have to adjust to us, and that is something people just don’t realize. The willingness of individuals who come from different countries to adjust and change their foundational cultural identities and personalities to engage and communicate socially with others is a skill and a daunting task.

I have altered my cultural identity numerous times since coming to America. There are times when I’m engaged in conversations with others and they mention certain things such as television shows, activities, food and other things that I have no cultural connection to. Instead of explaining and sharing those experiences with me, the common reaction from them is “that’s weird” or “you’re weird.”

It is something that I’ve become used to, and I try not to take offense to which, at times, is difficult. Because of the experiences I’ve had, I am willing to always share my cultural experiences and perspectives.

I understand that they are unaware, however, I have not been granted that same opportunity and I’ve been met with judgment instead.

We all understand that there are different kinds of immigrants.

Some come from across Europe, which are bigger countries, where I come from a small island. I am a third-world immigrant and that plays a huge role and is a crucial factor in how people perceive me, look at me and the questions they ask me. One wouldn’t think to ask someone who is originally from Spain “how did you get SEE POV PG. 8

PAGE 8

FEATURES

FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

POV FROM PG. 7

here?” or “did you come on a boat?” These social scenarios are what I have experienced and continue to experience.

While I have come across some amazing people who have embraced me and my culture, I find that ever so often these same microaggressions reveal themselves again which makes it difficult to socially navigate within this foreign cultural environment and difficult to fully embrace this new culture.

Over time, because of these experiences, I’ve become more aware that I need to keep my foundation intact, despite these comments. It’s reached a point where I rarely tell people where I’m from.

When people ask me, I just tell them where I live.

But I am not hiding my cultural identity or where I’m from, I’m just protecting it because it has been judged so many times.

Hannah Steyn’s POV: During my first two years in the U.S., I didn’t notice the stark differences between my own

culture and that of the average American. I came here initially as an au pair, a live-in nanny, and as a result of my circumstances, the people I spent my time with were other au pairs. Girls from Mexico, Italy, England, Austria and other countries.

While all our cultures had differences, the bones of them were much the same.

Enrolling in an American college was more of a culture shock than I ever could have anticipated.

The questions I’ve received from Americans, the people who pride themselves on a topnotch education system, have left me speechless more than once. People compliment me on my English speaking skills, despite it being my native tongue. I’ve had people accuse me of lying about my nationality, and had people threaten me when I’ve told them I’m from South Africa because as a person with light skin, how could that possibly be the case? I’ve had people ask me how I got here, whether or not we have shopping malls and outright ask me whether I’m poor. I’ve

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even endured blatant raging anti-immigrant speeches from people I’d previously thought of as friends.

It’s taken some time to adjust to the culture I didn’t think would be that different from my own. I made the mistake of thinking there would be no differences, so I didn’t give myself the preparation that might have helped. Adjusting to a new culture comes with unexpected downsides - the vague guilt that you’re moving away from your own culture brings a weird identity crisis with it.

Having to change the way I say words, including the way I pronounce my own name, so people can better understand me leads to my friends and family back home commenting on how I’m becoming American, and leaving the South African in me behind.

As much as I can appreciate American culture, I don’t want to become American.

Being here has made me appreciate the nuances of my own culture so much more. Observing and adjusting to an individualistic culture when coming from such a community based

one is a fascinating experience, and while initially I judged harshly, I’m realizing more and more that the “norm” here is simply different.

And different isn’t bad.

As an immigrant, you have to learn that quickly, and it’s an experience I wish everyone could have. Being judged for my cultural differences has been a huge theme of my time here, despite Utica University having such a diverse population. Being an immigrant in America can be a somewhat isolating experience the way people interact and make friends is completely different to the way you’re accustomed to. It can be difficult to see attempts at conversations or interactions fail simply because the people you’re talking to see the way you act, the way you’ve always acted, as weird rather than seeing it as an opportunity to learn more about how different cultures interact. Individuals are not always appreciative of variances in cultures.

But once you not only accept, but appreciate, those differences, it opens up a whole new world.

FEATURES

PAGE 9 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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POV: Thrifting, good for the wallet and the world ◊ HOLLIE DAVID FEATURES EDITOR

screened for quality and brand. Stores like this also give people the chance to make some extra money as clothing isn’t donated but instead purchased by the store.

When walking through the door and seeing rows upon rows of bright colors, flashy accessories and vinyl records, I always know it is going to be a good day. Whether I am looking for a brightcolored blazer, a frame for a craft project or anything else I can think of, I know there is a chance it can be found.

As a college student, extra spending money tends to be non-existent after paying the bills and buying groceries every week. Simply buying a new pair of jeans or a cozy flannel for a cold autumn day can seem almost impossible.

Luckily I have a somewhat simple solution to this problem that is both easy on a person’s wallet and easy on the world we live in. Thrifting is a great way to find high-quality clothing, sometimes with the tags still on, for prices that are within the slim budget of a college kid.

This solution also allows for less clothing waste to accumulate in garbage dumps or as pollution.

Over the past several

Besides being an easier financial option for college students, thrifting is also gentler on the environment compared to common practices used in the fashion industry.

A brand new blazer with the tags still on it at Goodwill. /Photo: Hollie David

years, pop culture and social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have removed some of the stigmas from thrifting and opened up a new world to younger generations.

These platforms have become tutorials on how to thrift and customize anything and everything a person can find at a thrift store.

People can find thrift stores and consignment stores everywhere, from more name-brand thrift stores such as Goodwill and Plato’s Closet, both in New Hartford, to smaller, more local thrift stores which tend to have just as large of a variety of clothing and

accessories for every occasion. In today’s digital age, there is even the option of online thrifting.

On my trips to various thrift stores such as Goodwill, I have found American Eagle jeans with the tags still on, Lululemon yoga pants in every assorted color and Converse that look brand new after a few small scuffs were cleaned off – all for $20 or less which is way easier on the wallet than buying off the rack.

If a person is looking for only more expensive brands, then there is also the option of a store like Plato’s Closet where any clothing that goes in is

“Fashion production makes up 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions, dries up water sources, and pollutes rivers and streams,” according to the Geneva Environment Network website.

“What’s more, 85% of all textiles go to the dump each year, and washing some types of clothes sends a significant amount of microplastics into the ocean.”

By opting to thrift, people are making a conscious choice to help reduce the carbon footprint they are leaving on the planet, along with having a more affordable way to fill their closets.

FEATURES

PAGE 10 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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Country artist Sarah Darling to perform in Syracuse ◊ HOLLIE DAVID FEATURES EDITOR

Darling will perform at Funk ‘n Waffles in Syracuse on Thursday, May 19. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will run from 8-11 p.m. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on TicketWeb or at the door. The show is 18 and older and patrons will be required to show a valid ID at the door.

Sarah Darling is a singersongwriter from Des Moines, Iowa who has grown from a small-town girl to an internationally known country musician.

Her stardom began in 2003 when she appeared on E! Entertainment Television’s reality show “The Entertainer” and since then has continued to grow. Although this is when her fame began, Darling has always had a love of music.

“My grandfather introduced me to country music at a young age and was a great influence in my life,” Darling said. “I also did come into the world singing, and it’s something I’ve always known.

It was my personal discovery of Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles that really shaped me as a musician.”

Darling has released five albums since 2009, titled “Every Monday Morning,” “Angels & Devils,” “Dream Country,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Wonderland.”

Besides the albums, she also released numerous singles.

Her two most recent singles are “Pretender,”

Darling offered a piece of advice for aspiring musicians who want to emulate what she is currently doing.

“Find what makes you uniquely you and what you want to say to the world,” she said. “Chase authenticity always.”

Sarah Darling. /Photo: Greg Dobihal (Eclipse Music Group)

released in February, and “Hungover,” released in April. Both songs will be included on her new EP, her first released collection since “Wonderland.”

“Wonderland” earned the #1 country album slot on the UK Official Country Charts in 2019, according to an article

by Broadway World.

When asked what her favorite song was out of all her pieces Darling knew exactly what her answer would be.

“I love my song ‘Pretender.’” It feels like all the songs that I grew up loving,’” she said. “I love music that transports you and gives you a vibe. I want to feel something.”

Her music can be found on a variety of platforms including Apple, Amazon, Pandora, YouTube and Spotify and also on several playlists throughout the apps such as CMT’s Hot Twenty, Coffeehouse, New Boots, PopCo, Take it Slow, Wild Country, Cosmic Country, New Music Nashville, Next from Nashville and Fresh Folk, according to her website.

“I really love where I am in my life,” Darling said. “I want everyone to share a little one-hour escape with me.”

FEATURES

PAGE 11 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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EIC Eats No.7: Arby’s $15 Family Pack ◊ MATTHEW BREAULT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

during this challenge.

The crispiness of the breading with the stringy mozzarella cheese on the inside warms my heart and elevates my blood pressure. Every bite is a crunchy delight, and I highly recommend trying them. There’s a rumor that they’re going to be 2 for $6 very soon, so I suggest you spend a little over $6 and enjoy yourself some mozzarella sticks.

For the seventh and final Tangerine EIC Eats, I decided to do something I have been wanting to do for a very long time. This challenge involved eating the $15 family pack from the place where I work …

Arby’s.

The $15 Arby’s Family Pack consisted of one Classic Roast Beef, one Classic Beef ‘N Cheddar, two small crinkle fries, two small curly fries, a choice of any four sliders (I chose roast beef, turkey, chicken and buffalo chicken) and a six-piece mozzarella sticks. This was honestly far more difficult than I imagined, but I am glad to be done with it and here’s how it went: Classic Roast Beef & Beef ‘N Cheddar The biggest part of this challenge (quite literally) was consuming the bigger roast beef sandwiches. I have always loved Arby’s roast beef ever since I was a child and adding Arby’s and Horsey Sauce to both sandwiches is always a great addition.

I also added curly and crinkle fries, along with a mozzarella stick to both sandwiches to really make it special.

I will admit that eating the bread from these two sandwiches was difficult and filling, but I managed to get it done without having it come back up.

Both sandwiches were delicious, and to this day, I couldn’t tell you which one I enjoy more.

Sliders Eating the four sliders was

EIC Eats No.7 consisted of a $15 Arby’s Family Pack, from the Arby’s in Rome where Matthew Breault works. /Photo: Matthew Breault

probably the second most enjoyable thing about this challenge. I decided to eat a roast beef, turkey, chicken and buffalo chicken slider, and I would do it all over again. Besides the buffalo slider, the other three have a nice slice of American cheese that really added to the overall flavor. Instead of American cheese on the buffalo slider, this slider has parmesan peppercorn ranch and buffalo sauce, which slaps harder than Will Smith at the Oscars.

small fries total. Although I believe Arby’s fries, both curly and crinkle, are severely underrated, this presented the most difficult challenge for me.

I ultimately used these miniature sandwiches that come on dinner rolls as flavor fillers. What I mean by that is when you eat a lot of the same food, the taste becomes very bland rather quickly, so taking a bite out of something that is a different flavor can help you finish the challenge strong.

I probably should have purchased some sides of cheddar sauce, because Arby’s fries with cheddar sauce are phenomenal.

Curly & Crinkle Fries The curly and crinkle fries from Arby’s are absolutely delicious… when you’re not trying to eat four

In order to consume all the fries, I had to put them on the sandwiches. This is a very common thing to do in the food challenge world, and I have used this technique multiple times.

The fries are simply too filling and always present a challenge, even when they’re as great as Arby’s fries.

Mozzarella Sticks Eating Arby’s mozzarella sticks was the highlight of my day, and it was most definitely the best part of this challenge. There is no doubt in my mind that the mozzarella sticks from Arby’s are one of the best fast food items in existence and I was honestly sad that I only got to eat six

However, if you are going to eat any more than six, please consult your doctor about your sodium intake because holy moly.

Overall Nutrition Intake Just like all six of my previous food challenges, this one was also quite unhealthy, and in fact, this one was the second worst.

Here are the statistics from EIC Eats No.7: Calories: 4,020 Total fat (g): 190 Carbohydrates (g): 437 Protein (g): 145 Saturated fat (g): 46.5 Dietary fiber (g): 21 Total sugars (g): 24 Sodium (WOW)

(mg):

10,030

EIC Eats was a biweekly part of The Tangerine for the past semester, where Editor-in-Chief Matthew Breault did some sort of food challenge alone.

Thank you all for allowing me to share my food habits with you and you will hear/read from me soon. If you have any recommendations, please feel free to let me know. Thank you all for this enjoyable experience.

FEATURES

PAGE 12 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022

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Local experts share insights during panel on sexual violence ◊ MORGAN HINMAN GENERAL ASSIGNMENTS REPORTER

The Safe Trax program at Utica University hosted a panel on sexual violence on April 22 in acknowledgment of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The program’s mission is to enhance prevention education and services to victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking (SADVS).

The panel featured seven local experts in the field and they shared their knowledge on sexual violence. The experts answered questions from the audience so those in attendance were informed on the topic.

Safe Trax Director Jennifer Jones and Trax Prevention Educator

Ann Locke said the panel’s importance was to raise awareness and offer words of encouragement.

Michelle Forbes, a local therapist for YWCA of the Mohawk Valley, spoke on how her experience working with sexual assault victims made her realize that the population is misrepresented.

According to Campus Safety Director Musco Millner, helping victims of sexual violence find peace is a priority.

“After 26 years in the New York State police, I’ve had experience helping victims reach closure, and trying to help them close a chapter in their life is rewarding,” Millner said.

Jones explained how

to help a victim and validate their experience to make them feel heard.

“What happened to you is not your fault and making sure they are heard and seen, since they are the drivers here,” Jones said. “We want them to have the resources they feel they need to move forward.”

Counselor Amanda Learnard said each type of violence should be dealt with as its own unique case and case workers should be aware of the risk of retraumatizing by finding the happy medium when talking about trauma with the victim.

“It is all about being trauma-informed and we can’t define what that is for everyone,” Learnard said.

The professionals who work in the field see that men can be victims too and there is a gender stereotype of sexual violence and most cases are underreported due to common fears about coming forward.

Lisa Green, vice president of Human Resources and Title IX coordinator at Utica University, said it is important when a victim comes forward to seek help.

“By the time a victim gets to me they have made the biggest step in their life, that they are choosing to be an advocate for themselves,” Green said.

For more information, contact Safe Trax Director Jennifer Jones at jkjones@utica.edu.

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The Tangerine’s Co-Athletes of the Year: Santullo & Mix ◊ EMILY JOSS SPORTS EDITOR ◊ MATTHEW BREAULT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

from last year. I never really thought about the school records until I broke the first one (indoor 400m). After that, it only motivated me to train and work even harder to see if I could break more.”

Both Editor-in-Chief Matthew Breault and Sports Editor Emily Joss came together to decide who would be named The Tangerine’s Co-Athletes of the Year.

Utica University Athletics made huge strides throughout the 20212022 academic year, with many teams having historical seasons, and a number of individual athletes putting up remarkable statistics.

Throughout the year and as of April 28, the Pioneers have had roughly 60 athletes make All-Conference teams, eight receive All-Region accolades and seven athletes were marked as All-Americans, still with the spring athletes to be decided.

Within the Pioneer community, two athletes stand out among the rest, which is why The Tangerine has decided to name two athletes as its Athlete(s) of the Year.

Mackenzie Mix, a dualathlete of field hockey and women’s track and field and women’s ice hockey star Georgie Santullo have been named The Tangerine’s second annual CoAthletes of the Year.

Mix, who is a local product of Camden, New York and Camden High School broke multiple school records, including the Indoor,

Co-Athlete of the Year Georgie Santullo. /Photo: Jeff Pexton

Although Mix is in her freshman season, the pressure of competition never gets to her. She handles it with grace and always lets her hard work do the talking.

“Mackenzie combines outstanding work ethic with a love of competition and she is willing to do the hard work to prepare for competition, and when the gun goes off, she has great competitive fire,” Assistant Track and Field Coach John Hartpence said. “The thing that makes her the most special is that when we get to the biggest meets, she performs her best.”

This is evident, as one of Mix’s many records was earned at the Empire 8 Indoor Championships, when she secured the conference title for the 200m.

Co-Athlete of the Year Mackenzie Mix. /Photo: Jeff Pexton

300m, 400m, 4x200m and 4x400m, as well as the Outdoor 100m and 200m. If the record hasn’t been broken yet by Mix, and she has competed in the event, she is within the top 10 all-time.

“It’s a very surreal feeling to look back on the records I have broken,” Mix said.

“Going into my freshman year of college, I was just expecting to improve my personal record times

Santullo, who recently completed her senior season for Utica’s women’s ice hockey, left herself in the Pioneer record books within the top 10 of every major category of career and single season records.

In her latest season, she played her way to having the most points SEE AOTY PG. 14

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PAGE 14 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022 AOTY FROM PG. 13 (55), points per game (2.12), goals (29) and goals per game (1.12) in a single season than any other Pioneer before her. She concluded her season ranked second in the nation with her 1.12 goals per game, and third in the nation with her 2.12 points per game (2.12) and nine power play goals.

Santullo said without her close-knit group of friends and family, her accomplishments this season would be null.

“I owe all my personal accomplishments to the hard work and dedication by my team and without our overall success together, being an All-American wouldn’t have been possible,” Santullo said.

“My friends have been amazing supporters throughout my time here at Utica and I owe all my success to my parents and their support throughout the years.

From the time I stepped on skates, they provided me every opportunity they could.”

Like Santullo, Mix recognized that much of her success can be

attributed to her coaches and teammates.

“The coaches and my teammates are very motivating,” Mix said.

“The coaches set goals for me that I feel are realistic and achievable.

They do a good job at pushing me to conquer them. My teammates are very supportive, we are a close-knit team and we have a lot of fun together.”

For their successes, the two athletes have combined for five conference Athlete of the Week honors, with Mix earning two Empire 8 Athlete of the Week awards and Santullo with three UCHC Athlete of the Week honors.

Mix was named to the E8 Indoor All-Conference team and anticipates similar results following the outdoor season.

Santullo collected conference honors, UCHC Player of the Year, and was named as a first-time All-American.

The hardwork and dedication of these two athletes is unmatched and began years before they ever became Pioneers.

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In a conversation with Mix’s high school coach Steven Campbell, he praised the way her dedication to improve never ceased.

“MacKenzie was one of the most accomplished athletes in the history of our school and she currently holds five school records,” Campbell said. “MacKenzie was always very focused even at a young age, hardworking and willing to do anything for the good of the team. We are so proud of what she is doing at the collegiate level but not surprised given her work ethic.”

Similar comments were made by Bob MacCurtain, who coached Santullo during her high school career at Woburn High in Massachusetts.

“I would have to kick her off the ice after practice because the zamboni was trying to make the sheet for the next group,” MacCurtain said. “She was always trying to get in one more shot, one more touch of the puck.

Georgie was consistent, every day you got her best effort. There weren’t any off days.”

Mix looks forward to representing Utica University at the NCAA Nationals during her career as a Pioneer.

It appears that this opportunity is closer than she expected, as Mix is currently ranked 33rd in the nation in the 100m.

Mix is still currently in her outdoor season, with Empire 8 Championships coming up on May 6-7.

Her performance there will help determine her qualification for the NCAA Nationals as the top 22 runners in the nation are chosen to compete at the meet.

Mix was most recently ranked in the top 22 when she broke the 100m school record on April 16.

Santullo’s season has concluded, however, her career hasn’t yet, as she has recently chosen to continue her education at Utica and pursue her master’s degree in Social Work, while getting back on the ice with the team one last time.

With more seasons ahead for each of them, Mix and Santullo still have much unfinished business in their respective Utica Pioneers uniforms.

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POV: The forgotten team across the street Utica’s softball field an eyesore and inadequate facility ◊ EMILY JOSS SPORTS EDITOR

a huge student turnout is because it’s off campus and other students do not want to go across the street or worry about parking,” Finch said.

Utica University prides itself on its athletics, allocating much of the institution’s budget toward impressive facilities. The school is the home to one of largest domes in North America, utilizes an auditorium that seats thousands of fans and recently built a multi-million dollar multipurpose turf field and track.

The school has made many impressive and important improvements in recent years, though the university’s softball team never seems to be a part of the plans.

Being the only sport without a field on campus, the softball team uses a men’s slow pitch-sized field across the street that isn’t even owned by the school.

The lack of ownership by the school has shown to cause significant problems in recent seasons as the field is in need of serious repairs.

Late last season, a windstorm knocked over a light pole on the third base side and the lighting has yet to be replaced since there is confusion over whether the city of Utica or university should be responsible for replacing it, Mineo said.

The field also has no water, which means it doesn’t have sufficient bathrooms, and the team has yet to be granted

Greenman Softball Field across campus. /Photo: Emily Joss

heat in the dugout– a must for softball teams in the northeast and specifically those in Central New York as the weather doesn’t warm up until the end of the season.

Being off campus and bordering the side of the school opposite the freshman dorms, commuting to practice and games is much more difficult for the softball underclassmen than for any other sport.

“I am lucky enough to have a car on campus but many of my teammates can not say the same,” freshman Taylor Kraft said. “The freshman dorms are far away from our field off campus and it is at least a 10-minute walk to get there. When a teammate is unable to drive you, it’s a hassle with all of your equipment.”

Head coach Patrick Mineo said that he’s been told for years that

the fields would soon be built on campus and was most recently informed that it will be connected to the dome where Pioneer Village now resides.

There was talk of softball lines being put on the multipurpose turf, but dugouts, lights and a fence did not come with the offer and the idea was quickly abandoned.

In replacement, the softball field was given wifi that provides a blurry recording of the games from a single camera behind home plate.

With a field so far away, not many people are even aware of its location including players when they first come to campus.

Sophomore outfielder Abbi Finch said spectator attendance for the team would increase if the field were in a more convenient location.

“I personally feel that a big reason we don’t get

Of the most serious concerns pertaining to the disposition of the field is how unlevel the field of play is. The team already plays on a men’s slow pitch field which means the infield dirt is several feet deeper than what is normal. However, the worst part of the field is what occurs after the dirt ends.

According to NCAA guidelines, it is recommended that the entire playing area be graded .5% from the edge of the pitcher’s plate to the infield/ outfield rim and 1% to the boundaries of the field.

In other words, from the edge of the infield dirt to the center field fence, the ground should drop one inch every 10 feet to accommodate proper drainage. The school’s center field fence is 220 feet from home plate and 135 feet from second base- requiring a 13.5 inch drop.

This seems significant but in reality shouldn’t be noticeable over so much space. This team’s home field, however, is so unlevel that measurements don’t even have to be taken SEE SOFTBALL PG. 16

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PAGE 16 FRIDAY, APRIL 29, 2022 SOFTBALL FROM PG. 15 to be aware discrepancy.

of

its

Not only does this not abide by NCAA guidelines, but it also is a serious injury hazard for infields running back on balls.

Mineo recalled several instances when games have been won and lost due to the discrepancy of the outfield, especially balls being caught that shouldn’t have if the ground was at the level it should be.

According

to

senior

UTICATANGERINE.COM

catcher Brooke Catlin, much of the team shares the same opinion.

“I’d say I feel like we’re being dismissed as a program and we are at a disadvantage compared to other sports here,” Catlin said.

“Many other sports are

provided with money and equipment for better opportunities and we don’t get that. Also, I think it’s easier for us to be forgotten because they won’t put a softball field on campus so we’re brushed under the rug.”

Chilling with ‘The Trainor:’ Q&A with women’s lacrosse senior captain Kelsey Trainor MARQUEZ LOTTDOUGLASS STAFF WRITER

my biggest struggle this season. It’s hard when all your teammates are practicing hard and you are in class all day, but when I’m there I put all the effort in to try to make up for it.

◊

Q: Why did you start playing lacrosse?

A: I honestly picked it up freshman year because I didn’t play a spring sport so out of softball and lacrosse, lacrosse seemed more interesting to me.

Q: What has lacrosse taught you about yourself and life?

A: Working hard will get you way farther than relying on raw talent.

Q: What is your best/ favorite moment either on the field or just being around your teammates?

A: My favorite moment was my freshman year when we beat Stevens.

Q: Any message or tips if you can go back and talk with your younger self?

Senior Captain Kelsey Trainor. /Photo: Kayleigh Sturtevant

Apparently this was a team we typically lost to so it was really exciting to dominate the game.

Q: What will you miss most about lacrosse when you’re done?

A: I will miss being an athlete and having built in best friends as my teammates. I will also miss the commitment and having to show up

to something everyday that I love.

Q: With being a big part of the defense and someone people count on and working through a tough grad program, how do you manage to keep up with both?

A: Honestly it is really difficult being able to handle both and I do believe that has been

A: Don’t let the little mistakes ruin all the other things you can accomplish.

There is nothing you can’t recover from.

Q: What is the limit for this team?

A: I think the limit for this team is that when we get tired, we tend to stop talking and whenever the talk stops, it usually affects our play.