“The Fate of Ophelia”

Right from the opening, it is clear that this album is in the hands of different producers than her last few albums. It’s reminiscent of Swift’s older content, with influences drawing from “Speak Now” and “Midnights.”

However, much like other songs on the album, such as “Elizabeth Taylor,” this song doesn’t delve deep enough into the intricacies of Ophelia’s fate to be worthy of its Shakespearean title. It does provide callbacks to her with lines like, “Late one night / You dug me out of my grave / And saved my heart from the fate of / Ophelia,” but they lack depth.

“Opalite”

Reminiscent of Swift’s earlier work, the song speaks to the idea of letting go of past relationships and insecurities to move forward in current ones. In the song, Swift sings to a “you,” which fans online have presumed is her current fiancé, Travis Kelce, indicating a tonal shift from Swift’s previous albums, which are associated with breakups and the messiness of relationships. With an upbeat pop sound, “Opalite” can easily be danced to and enjoyed casually.

“Father Figure” 

This track is one of Taylor’s storytelling pieces about a predatory older male who displays manipulative behaviors and language. The song is sung from the perspective of the older male, with one of the lines reading, “This love is pure profit, just step into my office.” The song is largely bright in terms of the instrumentals, which seems to be strategically deceptive given the subject matter.

“Eldest Daughter” 

At its beginning, the fifth song on the album is a letdown in lyricism due to its overly modern references to “trolling and memes,” appearing to be a futile attempt to be in touch with internet culture. Overall, it’s an emotional commentary on social media that falls flat because of its use of cringey internet vernacular.

The serious tone is maintained with a slow tempo, which highlights Swift’s rich voice. At the chorus and bridge, the song picks up and ultimately redeems itself with a powerful, hopeful tune. However, the lyrics seem to have deeper meanings and are written well, until you reach the point where “bad bitch” and “savage” are referenced, which feels outdated.

“Ruin The Friendship” 

This track is a richly toned tale of a friends-to-lovers romance, imbued with the familiar and wistful yearning of Taylor’s earlier works, full of reflective references to her high school days and growing up in the suburbs of Tennessee. It’s a slower, romantic addition that suddenly morphs into a sadder, regretful tune with its sudden twist ending, ultimately advising listeners to take a chance rather than spending their lives wondering what could have been.

“Actually Romantic” 

Sabrina Carpenter’s influence is clear in this fun, revenge tune about a particular person, allegedly Charli xcx, who puts in so much time and effort into hating Swift that she views it as “actually romantic.” Swift reiterated how she finds their obsession and attention quite flattering as she makes fun of this person, claiming that “it’s actually sweet / All the time you’ve spent on me” and “No man has ever loved me like you do.”

“CANCELLED!” 

Track ten leans into a dark, moody style with an eerie edge, very reminiscent of Billie Eilish’s early sound on “WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?” However, despite its catchy tune, it ultimately falls flat due to Swift’s cringy references to “girlboss[ing] too close to the sun.”

While the song does a good job at pointing out how female celebrities are often held to a higher standard than men, the topic of cancellation comes off as tone-deaf from Swift, a billionaire who has come under fire recently by fans for a lack of political activism.

“The Life of a Showgirl (ft. Sabrina Carpenter)”

The final, titular track is another one rooted in storytelling, following a dancer named Kitty with a musical theatre-inspired bridge and an echoing, spoken outro clipped from Swift closing out a performance on the Eras Tour. With conversational lyrics channeling the disillusionment of fame, glitz and glamour, Carpenter and Swift’s vocals blend cohesively for an on-theme ending to the album.

This album gains traction as it progresses and almost makes up for blunders in its earlier tracks. Swift’s album is a reflection on her life of fame and offers insight into her love life with Kelce, which was not as heavily touched upon in other albums. However, “The Life of a Showgirl” is undoubtedly Taylor’s weakest album lyrically.

Overall rating: 2.5/5 

The event was self-paced, allowing attendees to travel from stall to stall as they pleased. Right by the entrance was catered food by Binghamton University’s own Mein Bowl. The menu featured orange chicken, teriyaki chicken, white rice, fried rice, fruit tea, Yeo’s water chestnut drink and snow skin mooncakes, lovingly handmade by the Chinascope E-Board.

“I am delighted to be welcoming our society’s first major Mid-Autumn Festival event before my graduation,” Zetong Lu, an advisor for Chinascope and a senior majoring in mathematics, wrote in an email. “In China, the Mid-Autumn Festival is an immensely significant occasion, second only to the Spring Festival in importance. While it is a time when families traditionally gather, being unable to reunite with one’s own family yet able to come together with new friends on campus is equally cause for celebration.”

Stations featuring various games and activities were scattered around the Mandela Room. The first stop was the “Mooncake Toss,” where two participants competed to see who could land the most mooncakes through the target. Attendees also played the “Giant Jump Rope” challenge, a test of stamina to see how long they can jump for.

For those who preferred a mental challenge, the “Riddles and Trivia” stations offered a chance to test decoding skills and festival knowledge. After exercising their mind, attendees could test their aim in the “Arrow Toss” game before heading to the “Chopstick Challenge,” where players raced to move the most marbles from one plate to another using only a pair of wooden chopsticks.

Jocelyn Fang, a member of Chinascope and a sophomore majoring in biochemistry, discussed some of the challenges that came with organizing the event.

“This is our first time doing Moon Festival,” Fang said. “It’s our first big event in the fall semester, so it’s something new that we’re trying, so that was a little hard.”

During the games, participants earned tickets that can be redeemed at two special stations — the Polaroid decor and prize tables. At the Polaroid station, guests could use one ticket to take and decorate a photo with their friends in front of a hand-painted banner created by Chinascope’s art director, Rachel Tan, a sophomore majoring in art and design.

Those who saved up their tickets could exchange them for prizes depending on the amount, encouraging increased participation in games. The prizes included a matcha set, a $15 gift certificate to Uma Omakase, Lulu the Piggy blind boxes, Lilo & Stitch and Sanrio keychain blind boxes, along with an assortment of candy and Asian snacks. The event concluded at 8 p.m. after hours of fun games, friendly competition and delicious food.

Emily Su, one of Chinascope’s representatives and a sophomore majoring in business administration, shared her thoughts on the event turnout.

“I really think the banquet is doing really well, the turnout is awesome,” Su said. “I love seeing everyone be so engaged with all the activities.”

The event was a resounding success, as students had the chance to participate in fun challenges and celebrate Chinese culture.

Lu expressed his hopes for the future of Mid-Autumn festivals hosted at the University.

“I sincerely hope that more Mid-Autumn Festival activities will continue after I leave the University,” Lu wrote. “If I may express a wish, given that the term ‘Mid-Autumn’ in China is synonymous with reunion, it would be truly exciting if the university could organize a Mid-Autumn Festival evening gathering where all societies could come together.”

Yung Kai’s popularity all started with his viral hit “blue,” which accumulated over 658 million streams and earned him more than 13.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify. While “blue” introduced audiences to his soft and gentle voice, this album demonstrates why he is such a popular artist.

This album has many standout songs, with three in particular being “i hope my cat loves me,” “beach song” and “how do you dance?” As much as listeners love the song “blue” — it has been a national headline for a while now — it is refreshing to see Yung Kai put out more beautifully written songs that touch the listener.

The track “i hope my cat loves me” is about longing for a gentle, nonjudgmental love. Throughout the song, Yung Kai emphasizes that even if a romantic interest doesn’t love him, his cat always will. The song expresses a yearning for a love that is simple, constant and safe, just like a cat’s affection.

The duet, “beach song,” a collaboration between Yung Kai and up-and-coming artist asumuh, explores memory and distance. The beach imagery emphasizes a symbolic space between the past and present, where all memories are to be found. The setting portrayed harkens to possible emotional distance from a partner and a longing to remember past happiness and memories. It becomes a space associated with the past and missing somebody deeply.

Overall, this song evokes memories of a group of friends on the beach, playing games and watching the waves together, and hoping to experience those times again.

The last standout and fan favorite out of the three is “how do you dance?” Many interpret the title metaphorically, as if it asks how one moves through life, love or loss. It’s a very intimate song asking about not just what someone does, but how they exist. With lyrics like “Felt your lips when I close my eyes / I know we’re out of time,” Yung Kai expresses the meaning of this song and the idea that even though a relationship is long gone, he still wants to love them.

This song is relatable not just because of its meaning, but because of its reflective tone. The beat makes it both heartbreaking and danceable, helping it become a trending song on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

As a whole, “stay with the ocean, i’ll find you” is a message from Yung Kai to his audience about the emotions of love and yearning for somebody else in your life. He’s a rising star and will continue to gain traction as more people get the chance to enjoy his music. The album reminds listeners that love, even though it may be uncertain, can still feel infinite.

Rating: 5/5

The event began with a game that the BUJA E-Board dubbed “Big Ball Relay,” a mix of volleyball and baseball where teammates passed an inflatable ball to each other while running to the finish line. Afterward, players took to the field for an intense game of tug-of-war, where the E-Board and attendees worked together to compete.

Winners of each game received prizes ranging from Pokémon cards, a digital camera and a full matcha set.

“As BUJA, we decided to take part in Undokai because it’s an interactive way to share real Japanese culture,” Michi Shito, cultural chair for BUJA and a sophomore majoring in business administration, wrote. “Instead of food or DIY events, this event lets people actually participate in Japanese tradition and experience the same joy that Japanese students feel during the school year.”

BUJA works as a very active organization on campus, bridging a multitude of cultures for all students. Rintaro Onishi, president of BUJA and a junior majoring in biochemistry, said that the Undokai event was just one of several the organization hosts to spread Japanese culture.

The games continued with a relay race that depended on active communication. Students were grouped with new people and connected with each other through the fast-paced game. Winners were awarded a set of stationery from MUJI.

No matter the winner, all attendees celebrated one another with great sportsmanship.

“It is important to have interactive events such as Undokai, as it provides a fun opportunity to educate students about various cultures,” wrote Leo Sharp, cultural chair of BUJA and a junior majoring in business administration. “Especially with Undokai, students can participate, interact, and celebrate together, fostering a sense of community.”

Next was a ball-throwing game called “Tamaire” that required large groups to toss balls into a basket as one teammate walked around the field. Though it seemed like an individual task, the teams had to quickly adapt and learn when someone was throwing a ball and tried to help each other aim properly.

Due to BUJA’s commitment to campus engagement, the organization prides itself on staying busy throughout the semester.

“This semester, students can look forward to DIY Daruma crafting, as well as collaborations with other organizations, like dumpling making and calligraphy workshops,” Shito wrote. “The highlight of the semester will be Winter Matsuri on November 16th, which is BUJA’s biggest annual event, so we’re excited for everyone to join!”

The event concluded with a game of “Shogaibutsu-kyōsō,” an elaborate obstacle course race where contestants completed multiple high-intensity games, ending with retrieving candy clipped to a piece of string using only their mouths. Attendees bonded with and applauded one another, creating a welcoming field day for everyone to enjoy.

“I hope that the participants will leave with fun memories, competing against each other while learning about the traditional Japanese games,” Sharp wrote. “My wish is that everybody walks away feeling that they were part of something meaningful and joyful, fostering the sense of community I mentioned earlier.”

The event is hosted by the Q Center and Binghamton University Libraries, in conjunction with the women, gender and sexuality studies program and the theatre department. Attendees will view a reading by a drag queen and faculty lightning talks, followed by an interactive Q&A. Food and refreshments will be served.

The reading will be hosted by Samantha Vega, a Rochester-based drag queen. Last year, she read a chapter from “Ambientes: New Queer Latino Writing,” edited by Lázaro Lima and Felice Picano. Jillian Sandy, a subject librarian for the women, gender and sexuality studies department, said Vega will likely select another chapter that addresses how Latin and LGBTQ+ identities intersect.

“I had a blast last year when we hosted Sparkle & Scholars for the first time, and Samantha Vega was truly a highlight,” Sandy wrote in an email. “I’m looking forward to her presence again and excited to see what she chooses for her reading. And her outfit, of course!”

“I’m also really intrigued by the faculty lightning talks and the topics they will choose,” she continued. “I have a rough idea of the focus of their talks, but I don’t know the specifics. I expect I will learn something new!”

The faculty lightning talks will be about ten minutes each. Two faculty presentations have been confirmed so far: Bridget Whearty, an associate professor of English and the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies, and Sean Massey, an associate professor of women, gender and sexuality studies.

Sandy explained how the organizers approached selecting faculty speakers for this year’s Sparkle and Scholars event.

“We reached out to professors who we know are interested in topics related to LGBTQ+ history and/or activism,” Sandy wrote. “These are faculty members I have worked with before or know through other campus connections who are both extremely knowledgeable and excited to share their expertise in engaging ways.”

Next, there will be a 30-minute Q&A, where audience members can ask questions to the faculty and drag performer panel. Attendees are encouraged to bring thoughtful questions to share with the panel.

Along with audience questions, the panel will hear pre-selected questions from the moderator, touching on topics like the LGBTQ+ community’s underrepresentation throughout history, book bans and the relationship between queer scholarship and activism.

Sparkle and Scholars is an event that will continue to encourage dialogue about the LGBTQ+ community and inform students and community members on intersectional issues. Overall, it is an informative event that many different sectors of the campus have come together to produce.

Rather than focusing on a more generalized concept of Filipino culture, PAL strived to emphasize the “debut” aspect of the banquet, which celebrates the milestone of a Filipina woman turning 18, typically in the company of family and friends, dancing and gifts. The banquet was inspired by the annual Sunflower Festival in Ligao City, the Philippines, where dancers take to the streets in performances and costumes reflective of the abundant golden sunflower fields growing nearby.

To encapsulate this radiance, vases of faux sunflowers sat at the center of each table and a vine garland draped across the tablecloth as the flames of LED candles twinkled beneath the darkness of the space.

Johann Belizario, PAL’s educational chair and a junior majoring in industrial and systems engineering, helped kick off the festivities by describing the significance behind this year’s banquet.

“A Filipino debut is a huge celebration of a young woman’s coming of age on her 18th birthday,” said Belizario. “It is one of the most significant social celebrations in a Filipina’s life. It symbolizes her transition from childhood to young adulthood. Mirasol is a Tagalog translation for sunflower. The Ligao Sunflower Festival is a festival that focuses on the natural beauty of a particular town in Pangasinan, and the blooming of sunflowers.”

After an introduction video set to Daniel Padilla and Moira Dela Torre’s “Mabagal,” E-Board members and freshman representatives performed a traditional Tinikling folk dance, agilely weaving in and out of bamboo poles, rapping against the ground to rondalla music and trending hits like SZA’s “BMF.”

The event was hosted by Monica Gnajewski and Giankyle Vallarta, PAL’s social chairs and sophomores majoring in computer science. While there were some challenges during the planning process of the banquet — namely the University’s new policy that prevented PAL and other Asian Student Union organizations from catering from off-campus Asian establishments — Jhon Milo Nunez, PAL’s president and a senior majoring in computer science, reflected upon the dedication and collaboration behind the scenes that brought this event into fruition.

“[Gnajewski and Vallarta] have done an amazing job of bringing this theme to life,” Nunez wrote in the event pamphlet. “As for the rest of this year’s E-Board, I couldn’t be anymore proud of the hard work that everyone has put in to make this banquet one to remember. Whether it be deco, dance, or simply being there for one another in times of stress, it truly warms my heart to see everyone contribute to the success of this event.”

The night’s itinerary featured a combination of live performances presented by talented student groups and interactive games calling for audience participation. One of the organizations highlighted was the Binghamton Taekwondo Club, which showcased synchronized form motions known as poomsae and pre-choreographed fight sequences, followed by an intense series of board-breaking demonstrations and aerial stunts to soaring, suspenseful music.

Members of Undivided, an R&B group dedicated to uplifting multicultural voices through musical expression, also performed later that night, singing a rendition of Kehlani’s “Folded.”

While the event was challenging to plan, Gnajewski said that hosting the banquet was incredibly rewarding.

“Seeing the vision that my co-chair and I had finally come to life was such a surreal experience, and getting to present our hard work to almost 300 people was indescribably gratifying,” Gnajewski wrote. “Being in PAL has not only given me the opportunity to execute and host this banquet, but also connected me to a large community of wonderful people and allowed me to spread our shared Filipino culture to the rest of campus.”

Three games followed each performance, inviting enthusiastic attendees to compete on the stage. Prizes on the line included a “performative male” basket featuring stereotypical essentials like wired earbuds, a tote bag, matcha powder, a set filled with sunflower-themed trinkets and a brand-new Stüssy hoodie.

The first game was based on the custom where 18 men close to the debutante bestow her with 18 single roses as a symbol of their affection and admiration. Participants raced around the Mandela Room in search of items like the shortest person, the largest shoe size and the most followers on Instagram. The second game was the newspaper dance, a classic party game in the Philippines, where pairs of two were tasked with dancing and freezing on a sheet of newspaper as it was progressively folded smaller and smaller after each round.

The final game, “ligaw,” was inspired by family-centric elements of traditional Filipino courting culture like the “harana,” or a romantic serenade, and “paninilbihan,” or acts of service. Contestants competed to win over the hand and heart of Gnajewski‘s “titas” and “titos,” roles assumed by PAL’s senior advisors. One of the highlights of the night, the crowd erupted into applause and laughter at each interpretation of the different rounds as the suitors were prompted to try “serving” and rizzing up the judges on the spot.

After a dynamic hip-hop number soundtracked to songs like Kendrick Lamar’s “tv off” from Liga Modern, a dance troupe from the University of Albany’s Liga Filipina, the evening closed off with line dancing. All attendees were invited to shuffle along on the dance floor to Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September.”

Nunez explained how he hoped the banquet’s atmosphere brought together attendees from the Binghamton community and beyond as part of a shared familial unit.

“I hope that the attendees were able to immerse themselves into a mock debut, as one of our emcees, Monica, played the role of a girl who just turned 18 and sought to accomplish everything that typically happens at a debut,” Nunez wrote. “From line dancing to traditional games played [at] Filipino family gatherings, I hope that anyone in attendance was able to feel as though they were part of the PAL family, or in Tagalog, Kapamilya.”

Edwin Enriquez Gutierrez, the president of Candela and a junior double-majoring in biology and women, gender and sexuality studies, explained the significance of the theme.

“Our theme ‘Dia De Los Niños’ is Day of the Kid, translated into English, and it’s a celebration seen in Latin America where people celebrate kids and their youth and growth, and our theme aims to provide a space where people can see some and feel nostalgia of what it means to grow up as someone a part of Latin Culture,” wrote Enriquez Gutierrez in an email. “Candela is an organization that always aims to provide a safe and fun space to dance to anyone, and that will definitely be seen at our banquet this week, as it will tie into our theme of growing up in Latin Culture and part of that is growing up with Latin Music, food, and much more!”

As guests filtered in, blue lighting set the scene, and reggaeton tracks reminiscent of the early 2000s played. Papel picado, or perforated paper, decorated the walls, along with blue streamers and flower bunches. Tables were set with programs, a flower bouquet centerpiece, menus and coloring pages.

The banquet kicked off with the introduction of hosts, Skyla Rivera ‘24, the former president and founder of Candela, and Joskarly Fermin Rodriguez ‘24. They discussed the club’s goal to share Latin culture through dance and steps founding E-Board members took to create the organization.

After introductions from the current E-Board, Tropical Ecstasy, an on-campus Caribbean dance team, performed a choreographed set featuring genres like afrobeats and dembow. The audience applauded as the group danced to popular songs on social media like “Yo Bunny” by Prodbycpkshawn and Ugly Andz.

Two activities followed, musical chairs for a chance to win a Chipotle gift card and pin the tail on the donkey, encapsulating the theme of childhood nostalgia.

Andy Castellanos, the public relations chair and a junior majoring in economics, discussed how the organization speaks to the culture of Binghamton University’s diverse student body.

“What Candela is really about is creating a space where culture and community can come together,” Castellanos wrote in an email. “Although Latin dance is at the core of what we do, it is also a way to celebrate one’s identity and share it with others. Having students from different backgrounds join us is one of my favorite parts of this organization as that’s what makes Candela feel so welcoming and true to Binghamton’s diversity.”

During intermission, guests chose their selection of dinner options, all made by E-Board members. Guests could partake in cheese empanadas, mac and cheese or spaghetti, white rice or moro and chicken or pork.

Enriquez Gutierrez also set time aside to discuss current immigration policies, which have allowed for degrading, humiliating and often violent encounters between immigrants and ICE agents. He highlighted several resources and encouraged guests to educate themselves and spread awareness.

“I implore you guys all to donate, help however you can,” Enriquez Gutierrez said. “Please look past your privileges and acknowledge what’s going on in the world, and please educate those who need education.”

The audience practiced dancing to several bachata songs before moving into “La Hora Loca,” or the crazy hour, where all different genres of Latin music played to encourage guests to try out different dance styles with one another.

“Our Día de Los Niños Banquet is our chance to really bring everything we stand for into one night which includes culture, joy, and community,” Castellanos wrote. “Día de Los Niños is about celebrating childhood and we want the event to capture that same sense of fun and togetherness. With music, performances, and activities, we hope the Banquet feels like more than just a showcase, but a celebration that invites everyone to be part of our family.”

Chosen in part for its connection to the newly released “Wicked” movie and the nostalgia of “The Wizard of Oz,” the theme set the stage for the event. A yellow brick road lined the entrance, leading to a packed room filled with colorful decorations and a photo booth designed to mimic the magical world of Oz.

“Miss Asia is an important tradition as people have come to associate Miss Asia with the same high quality each year, yet the challenge is constantly improving on the baseline and making it even better each year,” Calvin Chang, a gala chair for VSA and a sophomore majoring in business administration, wrote in an email.

Upon entering, attendees received goodie bags filled with ramen and snacks from sponsors LMNT, Vifon and Yami. Each guest also received raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes including matcha, a tablet and a television. Dinner was catered by Mein Bowl, featuring fried rice, white rice, orange chicken and teriyaki chicken, with drinks provided by Moshi and other sponsors.

The pageant opened with a flag walk. Contestants Joy Lin, Miss China and a junior majoring in biology; Amy Jung, Miss Korea and a junior majoring in biology; Simran Singh, a junior majoring in biology; representing Miss Punjab; and Catherine Guevarra, Miss Philippines and a junior majoring in global public health, took the stage holding their countries’ flags, signaling the beginning of the cultural showcase.

Serena Le, a gala chair for VSA and a sophomore majoring in nursing, explained what organizers look for when selecting contestants.

“Most of all, I feel like we look for commitment, of course, because it is a hard process,” said Le. “Just preparing so many performances in a short amount of time and being there consistently to practice with VSA and with the board. But also their cultural pride — I really love learning about their different cultures, and I feel like a lot of the contestants like learning new cultures.”

The cultural portion gave contestants the chance to showcase traditional dances from their respective heritages. Miss China performed a graceful traditional Chinese dance, while Miss Korea began her performance with a large drum before transitioning into a fan dance. Miss Punjab performed a traditional dance with two background dancers as rainbow lights filled the room and the audience clapped along. Miss Philippines also performed with background dancers, highlighting her country’s dance traditions through an energetic routine.

Attendees played mini games, including “Tornado Twister Trials” and a guessing game to find a “magic charm,” between rounds to keep the audience engaged.

The talent segment allowed contestants to express their creativity and individuality. Miss China performed a cheerleader-inspired dance in her country’s colors, joined by a background dancer who recreated the viral KATSEYE routine to Kelis’ “Milkshake.” Miss Korea showcased three dance styles, including a hip-hop number to Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.” Miss Punjab performed a Caribbean-style dance with two background dancers, while Miss Philippines sang “Beaches” by beabadoobee as the audience illuminated the room with their phone flashlights.

For the costume round, contestants embraced “The Wizard of Oz” theme. Miss China appeared as Dorothy, walking out to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and tossing candies to the audience. Miss Korea dressed as the Cowardly Lion and danced to “Confident” by Justin Bieber. Miss Punjab dressed as a flying monkey, while Miss Philippines embodied Glinda the Good Witch, lip-syncing to “Popular” from Wicked. Audience members voted for Crowd Favorite, Best Costume and Social Media Favorite throughout the event.

In the final walk, contestants wore formal dresses and sashes featuring the names of their represented countries before taking part in the “Ruby Slipper Reflection,” where they shared what Miss Asia meant to them.

Lin, who represented Miss China, described how the pageant allowed her to grow beyond her comfort zone.

“Some of you know me — I was one of the quietest of my high school graduating class, and for me, getting up here today, it’s a very big challenge for me,” Lin said. “I think I’m really glad to have Miss Asia as a platform for me to showcase myself and to meet so many wonderful friends I’ve made along the way.”

Jung, representing Miss Korea, reflected on the deeper meaning behind her performance.

“I personally wanted to do Miss Asia because I know that Korean culture is known today as K-Pop or publicly known snacks,” Jung said. “But obviously, our culture has a deeper root than that and a lot more history, so I showed my Korean traditional dance today. And I also wanted to come out of my comfort zone, and thankfully, I was able to be given the gift of being able to dance and use my body in that way.”

Guevarra, who represented the Philippines, discussed colorism within many Asian cultures. Growing up, she was taught to straighten her natural hair to better adhere to these beauty standards. In her presentation, she wanted to draw attention to “all the unique parts of ourselves.”

The event concluded with the announcement of audience-voted superlatives. Best Costume went to Miss Punjab, while Social Media Favorite and Crowd Favorite were both awarded to Miss Philippines. Finally, Lin was crowned Miss Asia 2025, marking the end of an evening that celebrated culture, creativity and confidence.

Lin took a moment to express her gratitude toward those who supported her journey.

“I’d like to thank my friends who never stopped believing in me and encouraged me to go the whole way,” Lin said. “There were nights where I felt like I wasn’t able to pull through and wanted to give up.”

“But I want to say for anyone who is scared to step outside the box or be on stage next year or in the spring, don’t hesitate, just do it,” she continued.

Established in 2002, BAMS aims to provide a space for students of mixed racial and cultural backgrounds to connect with their identities. Nadira Asghar, vice president of BAMS and a sophomore majoring in integrative neuroscience, elaborated on the importance of creating this space.

“We want to allow those of mixed heritage an opportunity to engage in discussions surrounding their experiences, as well as cultivate a community they can relate to and find comfort in,” Asghar wrote in an email. “Whether it’s through fun crafting general body meetings, or more in depth conversations, we want to be that safe space.”

The banquet, titled “Mix It Up,” was themed after Y2K. Attendees arrived dressed to impress in bold colors, low-rise jeans, crop tops and various other pieces characteristic of the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Upon entering the space, guests were immediately greeted with Y2K hit songs from artists like Destiny’s Child, Britney Spears and Beyoncé. Each table was adorned with painted CDs, confetti, plastic stars and Y2K-themed stickers.

“When thinking of a theme for our banquet, BAMS was considering staples of what made up mixed identities,” Alyssa Williams, secretary of BAMS and a sophomore majoring in biology, wrote in an email. “We had so many ideas yet when we thought of Y2K, it was instantly decided. It’s such a fun theme that will make guests really excited to be there. Also, diverse cultures played a pivotal role in the Y2K impact.”

“Mixed identities reflected in Y2K moments and fashion has always been prevalent,” she continued. “To pay thanks to Y2K’s importance and recent revival, it made sense to have a Y2K-themed banquet for our own revival of this event.”

After introductions and acknowledgements by BAMS alumni and the organization’s current president, Emely Perez Alvarado, a senior double-majoring in Latin American and Caribbean studies and art and design, the Binghamton Ballroom Dance Association performed four distinct dances for the audience.

Ammon Kellmurray, captain of the ballroom dance team and a junior double-majoring in philosophy, politics and law and history, introduced each type of dance before the performance. The ballroom dances included Mambo, originating in Cuba in the 1930s; Paso Doble, with origins in either Spain or France; East Coast Swing, which comes from a variety of sources throughout the United States; and the Viennese Waltz, which traces back to 13th-century Germany and Austria. Each performance emphasized the rich history of dance and its integral role in cultures across the globe.

“Many organizations, students, and families are attending, which we can’t thank them enough for,” Williams wrote. “It means so much to us, especially since a banquet is very new for BAMS. We haven’t had one since 2011 and to see how many people support us has been very appreciated.”

The Mix It Up banquet encouraged attendee participation with games like “Mummy Wrap,” where contestants tried to wrap their partner up in toilet paper in under a minute, and musical chairs. Each game gave participants a chance to win a $25 Dunkin’ or Starbucks gift card.

After the first game, dinner was served buffet-style, featuring food like Korean BBQ chicken, chana masala and beef and broccoli. Once everyone was seated with their food, Undivided, Binghamton’s first and only multicultural singing group, performed a cover of “Soon as I Get Home” by Faith Evans.

The R&B group’s performance was followed by a fashion show that highlighted cultural attire like Desi wear and attendees’ Y2K-inspired clothing. The emcees emphasized that the show was all about mixing identities and different forms of expression. After the original participants walked down the aisle, guests were invited to showcase their own outfits of the night.

“The banquet showcases the mixed identity and so many aspects of the multicultural community,” Williams wrote. “We are an organization of a variety of voices and stories, and [the] banquet will express just how strong everyone is when together.”

The X-Fact’r Step Team was the final organization to perform at the banquet, closing the evening’s dance showcases with an energetic and powerful presentation. Before the performance, a brief history was shared, highlighting the cultural significance of step within Black communities.

After enslaved people were banned from owning drums, they adapted by using percussive body movements as a means of communication and expression. This tradition evolved into the art form known today as step, which is prevalent in many African American fraternities and sororities.

The banquet’s art gallery, situated near the entrance of Old Union Hall, featured both visual art and poetry by students of diverse backgrounds. During the final portion of the event, five spoken word artists who were part of the gallery read their poetry for attendees, touching on themes like being mixed, tension with religion, legacy and labels.

Kayla Lockhart, a sophomore majoring in philosophy and a member of BAMS, discussed the poetry they read to the audience.

“I think a lot of times poetry can sound more powerful if it’s said through your own mouth,” Lockhart said. “And especially since this is through my own voice, I wanted to use my voice to share my own story and my experience being a biracial person, being raised by a white mother and being devoid of a lot of culture growing up, and that’s the majority of what my poetry was about.”

The art and culture segment of the event concluded with the announcement of the art gallery winners. Alejandra Fernandez, a junior majoring in psychology, took first place with her painting “La Danza,” which highlighted the importance of traditional Mexican dance, in both the pre-colonial era and the Mexican American community today.

“I wanted to showcase not only the movement of the dance but also the beauty of the traditional attire, which further represents cultural pride and unity,” Fernandez wrote in the art label beside her painting. “The meaning behind it goes beyond performance; it is about remembrance, appreciation, and shared connection. Just as people from different cultures can come together to admire and learn from one another’s traditions, art becomes a bridge that unites us all as a community, regardless of where we come from.”

After a night of celebrating students with mixed backgrounds and experiences, the banquet came to a close with a recognition of BAMS’ interns and E-Board members who put together the organization’s first banquet in over a decade.

“This banquet is a true reflection of the dedication and teamwork that went into bringing it to life,” Perez Alvarado wrote in the event program. “Being part of the BAMily and working with such wonderful people has been an amazing experience, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead for us. I truly value the memories we’ve created together and look forward to everything the future holds for our organization.”

With a peak of over 300 members, the social club was run by volunteers who wanted “a safe space for women, lesbians and supportive straight women to gather without risk of harassment and violence” during a hostile period for those groups both in Binghamton and nationally, according to the exhibition’s webpage.

This hostility was represented in parts of the exhibition, with documentation that relates to the persecution that lesbians and queer women faced in Binghamton. A newspaper clipping included in the exhibition from August 1930 mentions “two women, including one dressed like a man,” being arrested for their “suspicious clothing,” who lived as “husband and wife on Henry Street.”

The exhibition also included information about the lesbian community in Binghamton before the opening of Herizon. A reproduction of Herizon’s 10th anniversary newspaper recalls that by 1974, the sole lesbian bar in Binghamton, the Green Onion, was open for only a year before a bomb went off inside after closing, which the writer Laurie Ryan and others believed was done by an owner for financial reasons.

Despite the risks and dangers of operating gay bars in the first years following the Stonewall Riots in New York City, a lively queer nightlife emerged in Binghamton, offering space for both college students and locals. They were “all owned by men and some by the syndicate,” had a “frantic sexual and alcoholic atmosphere” and “overt” gayness was often repressed by management, according to Ryan.

However, these bars were an inextricable aspect of lesbian life. It was where women “found friends, lovers, and a sense of belonging in an otherwise alienating society.”

This exhibition depicts how essential spaces like Herizon were then and continue to be today. Walking through the recreation of its front door, painted chalkboard black with no way to look inside, the materials on display, including posters, flyers, T-shirts, murals, records and a section dedicated to Herizon members who have passed, illustrate what the space meant to its 300 members at its peak and the lives that they lived within it.

Walking around the gallery, looking at materials from Herizon, provided an emotional experience, both because of what the club was and its closure. While there are several options for lesbians and queer people in general in Binghamton, they are limited. It can be especially difficult for college students seeking community, as the constant turnover of the student body also applies to bars and community spaces in Binghamton.

There were several reasons that Herizon had to close in 1991, among them the devastation of the AIDS epidemic, but there also simply weren’t enough people willing to work and keep the space going.

According to the author and professor Bonnie Morris Ph.D ‘89, who studied women’s history at Binghamton University and was a member of Herizon, by the late 1980s, it was difficult finding enough volunteers to keep Herizon open from Wednesday to Sunday.

Many wanted to keep it open to provide a place where a member could drop in spontaneously to find “warm sisterhood and cold beer,” but with many members having “gradually paired off, settled down, bought homes, adopted kids, and/or elected to get sober,” there weren’t enough people nor funds to keep it open. This was exacerbated by the raising of the New York state drinking age to 21 in 1985, which prevented college students interested in the space from attending.

Members wanted the space to continue to exist without providing the necessary support to do so. Morris wrote, “They simply expected that women’s cultural space would continue to be available to them as consumers, without their taking a role in it as producers.”

There has been a massive decline in the number of lesbian bars and women’s spaces in the past several decades, with an estimated 24 lesbian bars in the United States in 2021, compared to over 200 in 1980. Several factors contribute to this, like online dating, greater social acceptance of queer people and gentrification that prices out bars.

But they also close because people stop going. While there has been a small revival of lesbian bars and spaces, the loss of Herizon tells a fundamental lesson that people can carry both while at the University and beyond: participation.

Morris says it best: “cultural space that is woman-friendly and queer-friendly does not just happen: it’s a product of hard-won compromise with location, labor, outreach, budgeting, and communication.” It is arduous, but it is necessary. Whether your involvement includes attending events at lesbian and queer bars, working behind the scenes or helping others find community, it is all vital.

Tip your queens and the bartenders, and relish the queers spaces you find and make — they need you as much as you need them.

Paralleling the books, Belly (Lola Tung) forgives Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) for cheating on her, and the two get engaged shortly after. Yet, she still finds her way back to Conrad (Christopher Briney) in the end. The season diverged from the source material with the addition of new characters in the narrative and expanded storylines for existing ones.

These changes were introduced to enhance character development, particularly through a more active role for Conrad’s close friend, Agnes (Zoé de Grand Maison), during his time at medical school. Belly, like in the first two seasons, navigates heartbreak, love and family drama as she makes decisions that drastically affect her life.

This season tackled the indecision that accompanies betrayal. Belly struggles to forgive Jeremiah for sleeping with somebody else over spring break. The controversial decision to not only forgive Jeremiah but also agree to marry him created uproar across social media about whether Belly was making the right decision. Han believes it’s “debatable” if he “technically” cheated or not, as Jeremiah thought that they were on an unexclusive break, but Belly felt betrayed nonetheless.

Regardless of whether or not Belly made the right decision, Jeremiah’s willingness to allow a minor disagreement to throw him into the arms of someone else exposes a major flaw in his character and his inability to love Belly the way she deserved. It encourages viewers to think about the cost of forgiving a loved one — at what point is there no more trust left to give?

Conrad himself asks Belly how she could forgive his brother, insisting that she isn’t “the kind of person that would take that from a guy.” The show emphasizes the confusion in staying true to yourself, especially while in a relationship, despite the overpowering emotions of loving somebody. This internal conflict is also touched upon through Belly’s solo trip to Paris, France, where she spends months discovering her own identity separate from the beach house she grew up in, the Fisher brothers and familial influence.

The increased focus on Conrad’s storyline this season also helps viewers understand how his character has evolved with insight into his life in California, his new friends and his ambitions toward his future career as a doctor. He decides to go to therapy and seek out support for his mental health struggles, including recurring panic attacks depicted in previous seasons.
It was a thoughtful development to feature his emotional journey more in-depth, allowing viewers to empathize with Conrad’s attempt to take care of himself and see that it isn’t shameful to express one’s emotions. Viewers can take from the show the importance of prioritizing mental health above all else.

This season faced significant pressure as audience members, who had sided with all teams, anxiously awaited the finale, whether they proclaimed themselves to be “Team Belly,” “Team Jeremiah,” or “Team Conrad.” Jeremiah, although he was someone who clearly loved and treated her well in most cases, didn’t share as deep a connection with Belly as Conrad did. The pull that the two felt toward each other was undeniable and as strong as ever in the last season, demonstrating that one can’t hide how they really feel from themselves forever. The truth is bound to find its way to the surface, just like it did for Belly.

Season three excelled in revealing thought-provoking relationship values and depicting how the complexities of life can often get in the way of love. It also reflected on the difficulties that come with proximity to the people you love.

One critique that arose from the season finale is that viewers are left wanting more from Conrad and Belly’s love story. They resolved years’ worth of problems in the span of half an episode, and there was no further exploration into their relationship after the audience had waited so many seasons for it to work out between them.

Besides the pacing, the season definitely lived up to expectations, and “The Summer I Turned Pretty” will remain a comfort show for viewers.

Thunderous applause erupted as Binghamton Philharmonic Music Director Maestro Daniel Hege took the stage. Serving in the role since 2018, Hege is one of the only Indigenous music directors of an American orchestra, as he is wal’wáma, Chief Joseph Band of Nez Perce.

Hege explained how the night’s theme, “Heroic Journeys,” would be explored throughout the program. The work of Ludwig van Beethoven was central to the theme, as Hege detailed how the second song was formerly commissioned for the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth. He discussed Beethoven’s obsession and inspiration with “fate now conquers” from Homer’s “The Iliad,” one of the most well-known heroic epics from Ancient Greece.

The audience quieted, listening to Hege spin the journey they were set to embark on, as the lights dimmed and the orchestra began to tune.

“In the Seventh Symphony, we hear all of Beethoven’s Hector-like courage in the face of fate and all of his joy in the ultimate freedom of the human spirit,” Julia Grella O’Connell, the program’s director of education and community engagement, wrote in the concert program. “As we listen this season to the culmination of his symphonic output, let us partake of both.”

The first piece, Carlos Simon’s “Fate Now Conquers,” started softly as the instruments escalated through dynamics. From the quiet, clear woodwinds featured in the beginning, the orchestra built in a wave of noise in sections. A cello soloist took the spotlight, immersing the crowd in a haunting melody, easing the building tension of the piece.

The final section had the orchestra once again unite for a fantastic, uniform final note. The bows of the strings flourished as the audience exploded into applause, setting an excited tone for the works to come.

Scattered gasps filled the theater as highly decorated pianist Tomoko Kanamaru took the stage, sparkling under the lights. Kanamaru has played with professional orchestras since the age of nine, gaining notability with orchestras across the United States and Tokyo. With an expansive education and teaching background, she has previously performed Beethoven’s works.

Kanamaru gracefully smiled at her warm welcome and made her way to the grand piano center stage, completing full harmony with the Binghamton Philharmonic in their next piece. Hege raised his hands, ushering in the beginning of Franz Liszt’s “Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major.”

The piece featured four movements, each with a pattern of alternating sounds between the orchestra and piano. It became a form of call and response as they bounced off each other’s momentum. A featured solo came from the principal violinist, once again calling out.

Kanamaru connected with the music as her body moved with the notes and her facial expressions danced to the music’s tone. Her hands constantly moved as she often opened her palms to the sky or beckoned to the orchestra. Each motion became open ended, almost gesturing for fate to dictate the journey.

The audience was captivated by her synchronicity along with the music — the silence in the theater was nothing short of electric. Kanamaru held onto every note and the audience did the same under her spell. As the piece concluded, the audience shot to their feet for a cacophonous standing ovation. She bowed, her face and outfit shining under the lights, exiting the stage before reappearing for an encore.

The encore was entrancing, as the clear tone of the grand piano filled the hall with a calming melody. As Kanamaru finished, she leaned back and looked up, smiling and raising her arms toward the sky. The theater once again filled with cheers, as Kanamaru was decorated with flowers and took her bow with Hege one final time.

The lights came up for intermission and the audience stirred, beginning to chat about the show. Marianne and Steve Konka, of Cincinnatus, NY, shared their experience of the performance so far. Marianne commented on the pianist’s prowess, specifically in Liszt’s pieces and they discussed the beauty of the theater itself. The couple said that the philharmonic is a special place for them, recounting stories of nights they watched enchanting performances here while they were first dating.

“There is something extraordinary that happens when we gather in a concert hall: a moment of stillness, then sound — and suddenly, we are connected,” wrote Megan Curinga, the president of the Philharmonic Orchestra board of directors, in the program. “Music transcends words, backgrounds, and beliefs. It brings strangers into shared feeling and turns a roomful of individuals into a community.”

The final piece, Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92,” served as the concert’s finale. The entire symphony followed in a similar suit to the previous pieces, repeating a soft, cycling call and response as each instrument section took a highlight. Sections were bold and brash, with Hege’s conducting matching this energy as the noise grew. Frequent shifts to a minor key made the familiar melodies established in the first movements turn haunting, a question of where the music would go next.

The ending movement truly encapsulated the overarching theme of the performance, focused on the role of fate. The constant back and forth of bold and soft, fast and slow, mimicked a journey with its twists that was making its way to a fateful conclusion.

As the last note rang out in the theater, every seat in the house was abandoned for a standing ovation. The company took their bows and the lights began to illuminate the house, once more bringing the audience back into reality.

While students begin to embrace the fall season, the weather is still warm enough for a frozen treat. What better way to celebrate the early fall season than with frozen twists on classic flavors like cinnamon, pumpkin and apple cider?

Known locally for its extravagant flavors and outdoor-friendly environment, Sugar Lips is a must-try for anyone in the area. As one of the oldest ice cream stands in Broome County and with over 60 flavors to choose from, this year’s fall options have the potential to be fan favorites. If you’re looking to try some fall-inspired frozen treats, here is a closer look at a few of the delicious selections from this season’s menu to experience and celebrate the season to its fullest as autumn arrives.

Apple Cider Donut 

The apple cider donut flavor is made of apple cinnamon ice cream and apple cider donut pieces. A hard ice cream flavor, this treat combines ice cream and a classic fall baked good into one unique dessert.

This ice cream tastes like a trip to an apple orchard, with the flavors and doughy texture of the donut complementing the base. It is the perfect combination of toppings and ice cream, with the apple flavor sticking out among the rest of the tastes.

Cinnamon Bun

Cinnamon is a favorite traditional fall flavor, and the cinnamon bun flavor is no exception. With chunks of baked cinnamon rolls and cream cheese frosting blended into the ice cream for a twist on the popular delicacy, this flavor has sweet, tangy bites that taste fresh from the oven. Baked goods and ice cream are wrapped into one, creating a cool and comforting flavor.

Pumpkin Cheesecake 

As one of the most popular symbols of fall, Sugar Lips created a twist on the traditional pumpkin spice flavor many know and love. The pumpkin cheesecake alternative is made of real pumpkin, with spices blended into creamy cheesecake for a unique combination. This reinvented take on pumpkin is creamier, richer and sweeter without overpowering the distinctive pumpkin flavor we all love.

Cape Cod Cranberry 

The last fall flavor that stands out is Cape Cod cranberry, which features walnuts generously mixed into cranberry ice cream. As another popular symbol of the season, cranberries add a refreshing and sour taste to traditional ice cream.

Blended in with walnuts for an earthy crunch, the tart cranberry adds a light flavor to keep this option fruity and fun. It doubles as a nod to Thanksgiving, preparing customers for the upcoming holiday as the season stretches on.

Whether you prefer apples or pumpkins, or spicy or sweet flavors, Sugar Lips has all the options you need to enjoy autumn. With a wide range of seasonal flavors, they always have something new to offer even the most loyal customers who are looking to celebrate the season and taste everything that fall has to offer.

This blend of various traditional Chinese arts was performed in the University’s Anderson Center’s Chamber Hall. Featuring several artists from the National Academy of Chinese Arts, a few BU students and other guest performers, the hour-and-a-half program saw nearly a full-house performance.

The concert consisted of 11 different performances, split into three acts, all selected by the performers. The performances led the audience on a culturally and historically significant journey, each focusing on a specific aspect of the arts, like vocal and instrumental music and dance.

The opening lion dance act was performed by three members of the University’s Kung Fu Club — Bassie Chin, the president and a senior double-majoring in art history and geography, Katelyn Chan, the secretary and a junior majoring in psychology and Owen Barrett, the treasurer and an undeclared sophomore — who captivated the audience with their memorable performance on stage.

Chin recounted his enjoyment of the lion dance performance.

“It’s fun to be able to show people what lion dance is, it’s such an important part of Chinese culture — at celebratory events, you always have lion dance,” Chin said. “Being Chinese and seeing that growing up, now I get to do it too.”

Chan shared this sentiment of being able to partake in cultural celebrations on campus that reminded them of the ones they grew up watching in New York City.

Other performers also shared this view of cultural pride. Zhongbei (Daisy) Wu, an award-winning guzheng artist and professor of music at Alfred University, said she wanted to share this piece of Chinese culture with the audience.

“Music is kind of a universal language, we understand each other by listening,” Wu said. “Even my instruments, for some of [the audience], it’s their first time seeing, but the music — it’s the same thing. We share the same melodies, the same sort of feeling when you listen to a piece of music, no matter if it’s from the East or West.”

Along with the lion dance and guzheng performances, the musical performances of Margaret Pej Reitz, a faculty member in the department of music at the University and Ithaca College School of Music, and Hong Zhang, an associate faculty member of music and senior instructor of Asian and Asian American studies, enhanced the sense of celebrating a culture from a faraway place.

In the eighth performance of the night, a heartfelt song titled “That’s Me” revolved around a homesick traveler expressing their feelings to the audience. The lyrics effectively tied together the strength of the connection between culture and music, as well as its importance to the performers and this celebration.

Performers Yimin Miao, a maestro of Chinese woodwind instruments and a co-founder of the Ba Ban Chinese Music Society of New York, who played the dizi and drums, and Yi Zhou, a virtuoso of the pipa and qin and the other co-founder of the New York Ba Ban Chinese Music Society who played the pipa and xiaocha, commented on how this performance provided an opportunity to share their culture with an American audience.

“I think the American audience — because we perform everywhere, international — is so open-minded, they accept new things, like the culture, from different countries easily,” Zhou said. “Also, they’re very friendly.”

This emphasis on music as a universal language and a means to evoke a sense of joy and hope was the focal point throughout the concert. Across the 11 performances, audiences glimpsed into the various ways each performer conveyed this feeling.

With dance and lyrical melodies, the voice of traditional Chinese music filled the halls of Anderson Center, providing a memorable event that invited the Binghamton community to this cultural celebration.

After finding a wheel clamp on his car before leaving solo for a wedding, David Langley (Farrell) sees a conveniently placed ad for “The Car Rental Agency” and is forced to rent a car at the very last minute. Sarah Myers (Robbie), who happens to be heading to the same wedding, is sold a rental by the agency’s quirky workers, played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Kevin Kline. The pair meet briefly at the wedding, and their connection, though limited, is instantly intimate.

On the way back from the wedding, the seemingly magical GPS guide probes the pair to go on a “big bold beautiful journey.” The two are then reunited at a rest stop, and when Sarah’s car breaks down, the GPS guides them toward each other again, marking the beginning of this journey.

The journey — literally — opens doors to their pasts as Sarah and David are given the chance to relive wholesome memories from their childhoods, which bring the pair closer. However, they are also forced to face shameful yet pivotal moments that have molded each of their lives.

The film’s inception came from the personal experience of screenwriter Seth Reiss, most known for writing “The Menu.” After going through a bad breakup and driving himself back from a wedding, his GPS rerouted itself, and Reiss began to imagine what would happen if it instead took him on a mysterious journey. This inspired him to imbue personal desires of what he wished could happen into a film.

While Sarah and David experience the journey together, they must also focus on personal growth. They tackle the experiences they had buried down and were forced to learn and grow in the moment. The film combines a fantastical approach that we all can yearn for, while also keeping the plot grounded in truth and our lived realities.

While the quirky approach to the rom-com had an incredible cast, the general public was not thrilled. The movie has received less popularity than other new releases at the box office, along with mixed reviews from critics. Some questioned the truth behind the characters’ inner lives and their relationships to one another, while others were left dissatisfied by the film’s script and visuals.

However, even with its mixed reviews, the artistry remains undeniable and romantic.

The script was witty and simple, and the performances by Farrell and Robbie intertwined comedy and drama perfectly into a heartfelt on-screen chemistry. This was the actors’ first time working with each other, and highlighted the incredible talents of each acclaimed actor to bring a truly emotional connection to the film.

Overall, the film highlighted themes of regrets that influence our lives and gave audiences a chance to reflect on their personal journeys. “A Big Bold Beautiful Journey” was mostly lighthearted, and strongly rooted in recognizing the fluctuating human experience, touching on themes of identity, growth and sharing love. It also proposed an interesting thought — what would someone do if they were given the option to redo the past?

RATING: 4/5 

The film follows Cameron Cade, played by Tyriq Withers, a rising star quarterback who has dedicated his whole life to football. After suffering a career-altering brain injury, Cam’s dream seems to be withering away until he gains the opportunity to train with his hero and quarterback of the San Antonio Saviors, Isaiah White, played by Marlon Wayans. From there, the story focuses on what it takes to truly become the greatest of all time.

Directed by Justin Tipping, the cinematography and lavishly abstract scenery truly made “HIM” a standout film visually. While it may be easy to lose the plot of the story as sudden scenery takes over the film, it definitely doesn’t mean this film is boring — in fact, it might just be a work of art. While only 96 minutes long, the film is sectioned to mimic Cam’s days at Isaiah’s training camp, with each day focusing on a specific theme.

The use of defining day one as fun and day two as poised outlined certain aspects of the movie that drew the audience’s attention, ultimately coming together to reveal the question Isaiah consistently asked Cam throughout the film — what are you willing to sacrifice to be great?

This question, woven in each scene, tied the viewer back to the plot of Cam learning how to be the best from Isaiah, who was the most recent “GOAT.” But his peculiar ways of teaching exemplify the lengths one must go to be the greatest.

This movie raised an interesting question about the parallels of life we currently face. The obsession people have with not caring too much and being nonchalant about things they should care about creates a loss of passion.

By not caring deeply about the things that once mattered, do we lose all sense of the passion that once existed? And if all passion is lost, then what should people care about?

The thing about feelings is that while they can be intense, they can also create inspiration from within. Anger can be turned into art, and sadness can create a beautiful song. This intensity characterizes our generation, who will do whatever it takes and care more than anyone else to be one of the greats. “HIM” exemplifies that feeling through hallucinations and psychological scenes to portray Cam’s mindset.

Isaiah’s insane training methods, like hitting a player in the face with a football to help Cam deal with distractions on the field, are just the beginning of increasingly strange and horrific actions during training. Blood becomes a recurring image within the movie to portray the chaos that Isaiah exudes.

Additionally, mascots of the San Antonio Saviors repeatedly appear throughout the film, representing how haunting football becomes to Cam. These motifs underscore a question he must grapple with — if it took becoming so insanely obsessed to the point of putting football above everything else to become the greatest, would he do it? This obsession is encouraged by the film’s characters, as Isaiah only tells Cam he is proud when he becomes so intense on the field that he injures another player.

The ending, while seemingly out of place, touches on the cost of fame in American culture. “HIM” portrays the aspects of power, obsession and sacrifice, depicting a reality many athletes face on their path to fame, like sacrificing everything, even yourself, and pushing beyond normal limits to reach that level of greatness.

But if you’re not actively considering these themes throughout the film, it can be easy to lose sight of what the plot is actually about. As scenes become progressively more chaotic and shift away from the football aspect of the movie, you’re essentially watching beautifully choreographed scenery of Cam hallucinating and partying.

Regardless of what you may see, the soundtrack makes up for what you hear. Artists like Denzel Curry, Tierra Whack and Gucci Mane contributed to the music that made this film so captivating. The alternating sounds of adrenaline-pumping rap music during Cam’s training montages and the quietness that mirrors his hallucinations draw you inside his mind, giving the film an added layer of complexity.

Justin Tipping’s creativity throughout “HIM” is unmatched, and while the film might not click with everyone, that is exactly what makes it so interesting. It’s weird, bold and might leave you walking out of the theatre with more questions than you walked in with, but it will definitely get you thinking, and that’s the whole point.

RATING: 4/5

Vendors filled the streets, selling different kinds of handmade goods like jewelry, pottery, clothing, art, baked goods, home decor and more, all incorporating the apple theme. Food trucks sold apple-inspired goods for attendees to enjoy while watching live performances from a variety of bands and local organizations.

Run for the first time by Matt White, 47, of Maine, NY, the Apple Festival saw new and exciting expansions. Typically running down Washington Avenue from North Street to Broad Street, this year’s festival also took over the Endicott Inn parking lot. A big anniversary called for an even bigger venue, especially for an event as beloved as the festival.

“So many people just love this event because it’s been going on for so long,” White said. “It’s a staple in this community. When I talked with the police the other day, they said this is one of the biggest events in the Village of Endicott — over 40 years, you grow an event to that level.”

The Apple Festival was free to attend and fostered an environment that connected the community, vendors and performers, whether they had been coming for years or for the first time.

Ryder Dapolito, 21, of Apalachin, NY, took his small business, Two Guys Who Make Things, to this year’s festival. As the first event that Two Guys Who Make Things has sold its goods, Dapolito shared how the interactive culture of the festival offered a great opportunity to promote the business beyond their online presence.

“It’s really fun interacting with everyone and hearing what people use our stuff for,” Dapolito said.

Many other vendors and attendees have been attending the festival for years, not just those local to Endicott. Derek Courtright, 33, of Sayre, PA, has traveled to Endicott for the last two Apple Festivals. He commented on some of the activities he was able to do this year.

“My experience has been fantastic,” Courtright said. “We’re from an even smaller town, further [down] the PA side, so coming into a big festival is a good outing, something to do.”

“I visited vendors, had some jungle fries, some food,” he continued. “I listened to some music down at the very end. I’m visiting some local shops.”

He noted one staple from the Apple Festival that many community members know and love — Salamida Jungle Fries. Families shared this treat while sipping on fresh-squeezed lemonade and apple cider. Another big hit among festival goers was, of course, Salamida spiedies. While this festival is all about the apple, the Village of Endicott made sure to include its community specials.

As community members made their way down the street, they attended performances throughout the event from local martial arts and theater groups. At the very end of the road, many bands took turns onstage to share their musical talent and passion.

Michele and Steve Johnston, 47 and 55, of Owego, NY, and their band Messy Truth performed mid-day between musical groups Friday at Fred’s and Wreckless Marci. Messy Truth is a cover band that appeals to a broad range of genres and audiences. Having returned as performers to the festival year after year, Michele Johnston shared the band’s experiences and contributions to the community aspect of the event.

“It’s fun because it’s a family event,” she said. “I love kids dancing, having fun. It was a little different this year because we’re away from the crowd, but usually it’s down there, and there’s just people dancing and having a good time. We love festivals, we love these kinds of events more than bars, so we love it.”

Not only is the Apple Festival enjoyable for the community, but vendors and performers also partake in the festivities and have memorable experiences. After 40 years, this festival has grown into a major event that the community eagerly anticipates. Whether attendees go for the food, the music or quality time with friends and family, the annual Endicott Apple Festival has something for everyone.

The event spanned three days and spotlighted diverse aspects of Serling’s life and career through a variety of presentations. Mark Olshaker, an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker, author, foundation member and close friend of Serling, discussed this year’s theme and the writer’s relevance to the current state of the world.

“We’ve tried to come back to as many of his speeches, pronouncements, writings as we could to sort of tell what he was thinking and what his ethos was, what his morality and his view of the world was,” Olshaker said. “And I think in today’s political climate, socioeconomic climate, what’s going on, it’s very important to do. It’s very relevant and I think Rod has a tremendous amount to say to all of us, 50 years after he died.”

“The Twilight Zone” was at the forefront of the festival, with various discussions around the show and vendors selling merch. The first day of SerlingFest 2025 featured several screenings, including an episode from “The Twilight Zone” titled “On Thursday We Leave For Home,” presented by television writer and author Joseph Dougherty, which explored themes of leadership and the difficulty of relinquishing power.

Serling, a six-time Emmy Award-winning writer, was celebrated not only for his famous series but also for his activism and fight for social justice, both on and off the screen. According to the foundation’s website, he was known as “the ’angry young man’ of Hollywood, clashing with television executives and sponsors over a wide range of issues including censorship, racism, and war.” The second day of SerlingFest showcased a heavier emphasis on politics and current issues from the audience engaging in the many Q&A’s and discussions.

“In ‘The Twilight Zone,’ Rod wrote about the human condition and the issues that he was passionate about — prejudice, scapegoating, mob mentality, individual morality — and we continue to deal with these issues 60 years after the series broadcast its final episode,” Nicholas Parisi, the president of the Rod Serling Memorial Foundation, wrote in an email.

Presenters discussed recent creative works inspired by Serling and his voice outside of “The Twilight Zone,” like Ariana Grande’s song “twilight zone,” psychological thriller television series “Severance” and the horror film “Sinners.” Frank Spotnitz, a writer and producer for “The X-Files,” introduced key episodes from the science fiction series that took inspiration from Serling.

Staying true to SerlingFest 2025’s theme, Olshaker presented a rare speech given by Serling at the Library of Congress that addressed the responsibilities of a writer and the importance of free speech.

“In these days, when so many of our rights are being challenged, when the administration and all of its functionaries are trying to stifle dissent, trying to take people off the airwaves who don’t agree with them, I think this is so important, that writing, which was so important to Rod, is the one element that can preserve all of our other freedoms,” Olshaker said. “And when writing is challenged, when it’s stifled, that’s when we have to worry about all of our other freedoms.”

Anne Serling, one of Serling’s daughters and author of “As I Knew Him: My Dad, Rod Serling,” commented on the speech during her panel presentation and reading on the second day of the festival.

“Writing was what my father believed in, what he was passionate about, what he thought had a chance to save society,” Serling said. “In 1968, when the country was in the midst of the divisiveness and turmoil of the civil rights and anti-war movements, it would tear him apart.”

“My dad penned his speech at the Library of Congress in Washington by saying, ‘So long as men write what they want, then all of the other freedoms — all of them — will remain intact,’” she continued. “‘And it is then that writing becomes an act of conscience, a weapon of truth, an article of faith.’”

Anne emphasized the continued impact of her father’s writing by discussing the “Fifth Dimension” curriculum at Binghamton schools that teaches fifth graders about Serling’s messages through “The Twilight Zone” episodes like “Eye of the Beholder” and “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street.”

Several other presenters brought unique insights about Rod Serling’s impact and influence throughout the event. David Bianculli, a TV critic, columnist, radio personality and professor at Rowan University, discussed teaching Rod Serling’s work to college students and the growing popularity of “The Twilight Zone” among younger generations. He shared his appreciation for Binghamton’s annual SerlingFest.

“For Binghamton and where he comes from, I think this is a great thing,” Bianculli said. “No matter what else I do, I consider myself a writer, and a town that is celebrating a writer — that’s a good town. There aren’t many towns in America that bother to do that.”

Mark Dawidziak, an American author and critic from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, discussed Serling’s impact on his home state from his time as a student at Antioch College and upcoming plans to honor Serling’s legacy with a historical marker on Antioch’s campus.

While day two of SerlingFest primarily featured insightful presentations at the Forum Theatre, the last day of the festival was held at Recreation Park, located a few blocks away from Serling’s childhood home. Foundation members read excerpts from speeches by Serling, which was followed by a “The Twilight Zone” trivia led by Parisi.

To end the festivities, Mr Denton on Doomsday, a band with metal and funk influences based in Lansing, Michigan named after a “The Twilight Zone” episode, performed under the Recreation Park pavilion. The band performed its own music, along with a cover of “Twilight Zone” by Golden Earring with Parisi on vocals.

“I hope that our attendees left with a sense that Rod Serling was a man who used his gifts as a storyteller to explore issues that were important to him,” Parisi wrote. “Joe Dougherty talked about how Rod Serling wrote with a ‘sense of urgency,’ as if Rod were always telling the viewer that if they watched a particular show, they were going to hear something that Rod believed was important and vital and urgent for them to hear. I hope that our attendees came away with an even greater sense of Rod Serling’s passions and how he was able to address them in his work.”

This celebration of culture provided students with information about Quimbamba and its history on campus and introduced attendees to the vibrant, unique styles of Latin dance. The informational session was headed by Jermelys Meyreles, president of Quimbamba and a junior majoring in psychology.

Founded in 1970 and chartered in 2013, Quimbamba performs at events and competitions at BU and other campuses. In the spring, the team hosts El Polvorín, a dance competition where teams from across the state travel to Binghamton to perform.

After the informational sessions, members explained and showcased the choreography to interested students. Attendees were invited to embrace Latin culture and enjoy the process of learning something new.

“We just wanted to have our people come in and embrace their culture and have fun celebrating with people who also love their culture, and enjoy good food while doing it,” Meyreles said.

The lesson highlighted merengue, a dance originating in the Dominican Republic that combines African, Spanish and Indigenous cultural influences. A dance as diverse as its people fit the aim of the lesson —sharing and celebrating culture.

Members of Quimbamba instructed attendees to perform parts of the team’s previously showcased choreography. The lesson portion of the event was open to beginners and punctuated with lighthearted humor as everyone spun around the room. Many of Quimbamba’s dancers stepped in and helped attendees with the choreography.

Throughout the lesson, attendees were carefully guided through the intricate steps of the choreography. With each segment, the dance fell into place as the music played through the room.

Zaret Cruz Brioso, head of fundraising for Quimbamba and a sophomore double-majoring in politics, philosophy and law and Latin American and Caribbean studies, led the counts for unfamiliar students. However, the event emphasized enjoying the experience over perfect footwork. The lesson showcased the power dance has to bring communities together.

“Dance is not only just a fun thing to do, or you only do it because you’re good at it,” Brioso said. “Dance is kind of a part of your heart. Even if you’re bad at it, you still get to connect with people and be the social being that we are supposed to be as humans.”

After the lesson, students enjoyed food catered from La Isla, including plátano maduro, pollo al horno, bistec encebollado and moro. Everyone was encouraged to grab a plate and partake in Latin and Caribbean food that is often absent from dining halls. The event exemplified a tight-knit community welcoming new members.

When it comes to cultural diffusion on campus, the Multicultural Resource Center holds weekly events embracing different cultures and provides a space for members of different communities to work, study or get together. Members of Quimbamba described the center as “welcoming” and a multipurpose area that students may not be aware of. Kayla Colon, a coordinator at the MRC, said that the center plans to host other events celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

However, these events do not simply cease after four weeks. The Multicultural Resource Center organizes events throughout the entire year to celebrate all cultures. Students are encouraged to bring their own experiences to these events and help develop the blossoming diversity on campus.

“If there’s something else that you want to see, or your own culture represented that you feel like isn’t represented yet, anyone can come to us and be like, ‘I want to see this happen,’ and we’ll make it happen.” Colon said.

The artist took a different approach to creating this album, drawing inspiration from other cultures and instilling the music with an explorative and colorful vibe. To promote the album, Sheeran performed pop-up concerts from Mexico to India.

“We would pop up anywhere and play, and it would be chaos and creative,” Sheeran said in an interview with CBS News.

The first single, “Azizam,” a Persian title translating to “my dear” or “beloved,” encapsulates the cultural appreciation Sheeran conveys through this album. Sheeran co-wrote “Azizam” with Iranian-born Swedish producer ILYA, who used his Persian culture to help Sheeran create the single.

“I love learning about music and different cultures the more I travel and connect with people,” Sheeran wrote in an Instagram post. “It was like opening a door to a completely new and exciting world.”

The music video also features a Persian-themed wedding starring Googoosh, an Iranian singer and former actress, and Omid Djalili, a British-Iranian comedian and actor. The single peaked at No. 28 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Sheeran collaborated with numerous international artists for several tracks, capturing elements of different cultural music genres.

“Sapphire,” a track featuring background vocals by artist Arijit Singh, draws inspiration from South Asian percussion and includes Sheeran singing in Punjabi. The music video pays homage to its South Asian influences, featuring Bollywood backlots, local markets and riverbanks reminiscent of the region.

“Sapphire was the first song I finished for ‘Play’ that made me know where the album was heading,” Sheeran said in a press release. “It’s why I finished the recording process in Goa surrounded by some of the best musicians in India. It was an incredible creative process. I shot the music video with Liam and Nic across my India tour earlier this year, we wanted to showcase the beauty and breadth of the country and its culture.”

“Sapphire” was a worldwide hit, reaching the top 10 on iTunes’ Global Digital Artist Rank and No. 8 on the Billboard Global 200.

Besides the cultural scope of this album, some tracks signify Sheeran’s typical songwriting and lyricism, incorporating themes of love and relationships. “Old Phone,” the second single released, embraces themes of nostalgia after Sheeran discovers his old cell phone, which contains pictures and messages from friends with whom he no longer keeps in touch or who have since passed.

“Camera,” one of the more romantic songs on the album, discusses being so infatuated with one’s partner and the need to capture every moment with them. The music video features “Bridgerton” actress Phoebe Dynevor, who portrays Cherry Seaborn, recreating moments from her and Sheeran’s relationship and celebrating their love while maintaining her privacy.

“In Other Words,” “The Vow” and “A Little More” also relate to Sheeran’s wife, all serving as a declaration of love. Each song encapsulates how Sheeran embraces all aspects of his wife, even the difficult parts. These love songs sound reminiscent of Sheeran’s previous work “+,” “x”, “÷,” “=” and “-.”

On Sheeran’s 2023 album “-,” the artist wrote about difficult moments of his life. These hardships continued to inspire him for “Play.” The leading track, “Opening,” deals with the passing of Sheeran’s best friend, Jamal Edwards, and Sheeran’s wife’s cancer diagnosis. Although this album was partly inspired by the dark periods of Sheeran’s life, it clearly expresses the overwhelming love Sheeran has for his family.

In addition to Sheeran’s romantic tunes, he also includes songs about fatherhood. The song “For Always” serves as a heartwarming dedication to his daughters: “From your first breath till my last day / Whether I’m by your side / Or a thousand miles away / I’m forever, I’m for always.”

Additionally, a deluxe vinyl track on “Play,” “Regrets,” deals with the emotional burden Sheeran experiences being away from his children. The songs provide emotional insight into Sheeran’s experience as a father, a significant part of the artist’s life that he typically keeps private.

As a whole, this album represents the evolution of Sheeran as an artist through his individual experiences. He embraces cultural appreciation across music genres, incorporating Persian and South Asian musical influences. Sheeran reflects on his romantic and familial relationships, giving listeners a consistent experience that coincides with his previous album releases while also providing something new.

This unique album is worth a listen, allowing you to travel the world on an emotional journey of loss and love.

Rating: 5/5 

Primarily set in the ’70s, “The Conjuring” franchise frames the narrative around a particular family experiencing a haunting, to which the Warrens, a paranormal investigation duo, are called to release the family from the entity. “The Conjuring: Last Rites” challenged the framework of the typical “The Conjuring” plot, as the family that is typically at the center of conflict fades into the backdrop of the Warrens’ personal experience with the central demonic entity.

With the use of interesting lighting, sound and a centralized focus on the Warren family, the film stands apart from the rest of the franchise.

Many of these stylistic choices were shown through the repeated transition into visions had by Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga) and her daughter Judy Warren (Mia Tomlinson). These transitions were depicted by a change in lighting, quickly engulfing the character in darkness and transforming an otherwise pleasant or neutral scene into something much more sinister.

Darkness is also used to obscure and distort faces, hinting at the influence of the demonic entity over the individual’s life. Conversely, great instances of light were used to highlight moments of joy — most notably the ending scene in which Judy marries her fiancé, who was introduced at the beginning of the movie and remained a central character throughout the film.

The film’s emphasis on lighting and darkness ties into the prominent overtone of Christian values, which are mostly displayed through the almost redundant calls to God in moments of despair and helplessness, alongside the central themes of familial bonds and Christian imagery.

Sound, or lack thereof, separated the movie from its predecessors, as most moments of tension and horror occurred in silence or unintelligible whispering. In previous “The Conjuring” movies, these scenes would involve screaming and loud crashes, at times disrupting the tension and breaking from the gravity of the scene. The choice to allow horror to occur in quiet spaces built tension throughout the movie and carried it into the following scenes.

A drawback to using prolonged scenes of silence was that it affected the pacing of the already extended run time. The two-hour-and-15-minute-long movie dragged, as much of the first hour was uneventful and could have been cut to fix pacing.

Additionally, the Warren’s characteristic investigative work was essentially cut. At the beginning of the movie, the audience was directly told of the connection between the Warrens and the other family, ultimately reducing viewer engagement in the plot.

Newer characters like Judy Warren, her fiancé and the family experiencing paranormal activity were all underdeveloped and were simply used to further the plot rather than exploring how they fit into the narrative. Many of these characters felt replaceable, which came at a huge disadvantage to the film, as Judy Warren coming into adulthood and earning a place in the family’s work was a central plot point.

On the other end, Farmiga particularly stood out from the cast, as her facial expressions often cued visions or acute perceptions of information and spiritual connections. Seeing Lorraine step into a standalone role — outside of her identity as half of the Warren family couple — in the franchise was entertaining as Farmiga’s acting range came through.

Although the film wasn’t particularly exceptional, it served to give the series a positive ending and was an overall entertaining watch.

Rate: 3/5 

The three-day festival was a collaboration with University faculty, Indigenous peoples and other local community members, highlighting the six clans that make up the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and their culture and history.

“Too often, the distinct history and rich, resilient heritage and knowledge of Indigenous communities are not acknowledged across academic disciplines or represented as living traditions within institutions of higher education,” Tonya Shenandoah of the Oneida Nation and Turtle Clan and the Multicultural Resource Center’s assistant director of Native American and Indigenous Student Initiatives, wrote in an email. “The Haudenosaunee festival is an opportunity to share and honor the distinct history, knowledge and resilient culture that continues to guide many of the Haudenosaunee nation communities.”

The first day of the festival began with the Three Sisters Garden Harvest in the Science 1 courtyard. Attendees learned about traditional harvesting techniques used by the Haudenosaunee peoples and the folktales and history behind what gets planted. The following evening, Suzanne Halbritter, a member of the Onondaga Nation and Eel Clan, shared her experiences documenting protests at the Standing Rock Reservation between 2016 and 2017 in a presentation at the Binghamton University Art Museum.

Halbritter captured her time in the reservation through photos, artifacts and personal recounts with members. Documenting the Indigenous struggle in the United States fighting for water protection on their land, she gave a glimpse into the everyday life of Indigenous peoples today and the demonstrations that took place at Standing Rock.

“It’s to show the power of what the water is for people,” Halbritter said. “It’s not just saving Standing Rock, it’s not just that. It’s setting a precedent for everything — even everything that’s already failed.”

The second day of festivities began with canoeing in Otsiningo Park and a collection of vendors selling artwork, jewelry and books on the Peace Quad. Most of the jewelry was made out of natural objects like horse hair, seashells, crystals and wood, and many of the art pieces centered around people’s connection to nature, highlighting the Haudenosaunee’s reverence and respect toward the Earth.

Other events included a Witness to Injustice event that highlighted the effects of colonization on Indigenous groups through demonstration and storytelling. Many dance groups, comprising Indigenous people and other local community members, performed celebratory and social dances in traditional dress throughout the event. Guests joined the dances and learned more about the history behind the performance and garments.

Every aspect of the festival demonstrated an appreciation for nature, from the artwork to its panelists who discussed the conservation of endangered animal and plant species.

“There’s so much to learn,” Birgit Brander Rasmussen, an associate professor of English and a member of the festival’s organizational committee, wrote. “Many of us don’t know that the Haudenosaunee inspired the U.S. Constitution and the Suffragette Movement. This is a vibrant culture from which we can learn so much more in terms of agricultural and environmental science, philosophy, governance, literature and storytelling, history, land and water management, respect for Elders, etc.”

The final day of the festival commenced with a flag-raising ceremony, where representatives from the Onondaga Nation gave a brief speech, officially starting the day’s festivities. Along with admiring art pieces, attendees also tasted traditional Indigenous foods using ingredients collected from the harvest, like cornmeal made from corn and berries and a complementary strawberry juice.

The events continued with a lacrosse youth clinic held by Hiana Thompson and Jerome Thompson Sr., where they shared the sport’s rich connection to Indigenous history and its importance to communities nationwide. Working with the University’s men’s lacrosse team, the accomplished father and son helped young kids develop their skills and learn life lessons on the field.

Events and displays during the festival highlighted many aspects of the Haudenosaunee’s rich history and celebrated many of the values that the clans still uphold. This included the Two Row Wampum, a belt made of shells that represented a peace treaty made between Dutch settlers and the Haudenosaunee people.

The festival concluded with a final dance from the Haudenosaunee Singers and Dancers, another performance which encouraged audience participation.

“The festival builds bridges of peace and friendship, cultivating a critically needed sense of place for Native American and Indigenous students on campus, creating a sense of respect and belonging,” Shenandoah wrote. “Hosting the festival on the Binghamton University campus will expand these bridges through community partnerships and enrich the educational experiences of all students through the sharing of cultural and intellectual knowledge that continues to guide the distinct way of life of Haudenosaunee communities as separate, sovereign nations.”

The event took place Saturday, Sept. 13, and featured a variety of medieval and fantasy-themed activities for students to participate in. Joshua Rivera, a senior majoring in geological sciences and an events coordinator for Late Nite, proposed the original idea of hosting a Renaissance Faire.

Event festivities spanned across the ground floor of the Union and into the University Union Undergrounds. The Union classrooms hosted the bulk of the event’s arts and crafts activities, including making flower crowns, decorating tote bags and creating on-theme crafts like custom rings and wands. Attendees personalized their free accessories throughout the night with crystals, metallic charms and quills and ink.

n the Old Union Hall, students played a variety of carnival-style activities and games like mechanical bull riding.

Alyssa Whitehead, the campus activities coordinator, provided insight into the logistics of this semester’s Faire, explaining how students and Late Nite Binghamton staff brought the event to life after the success of the inaugural event last semester.

“I got to help [Rivera], our events coordinator, and our graduate assistant, Ateeq [Rahman ‘25, a first-year graduate student studying computer science],” Whitehead said. “I got to help them both plan this event. It was Josh’s vision — he took a lot of what he had planned for last semester, some of the stuff he didn’t get to do and some of the stuff he wanted to bring back.”

“It was great to work with some of our vendors that help bring stuff like the mechanical bull to campus,” she continued. “But it’s a lot of moving parts, it’s a lot of making sure we’re hitting a lot of different marks with a lot of different crafts, with something exciting — something for everyone.”

More popular activities like medieval warfare and boss fights were held in the Mandela Room, with an assortment of armor and weapons provided for participants to use. Attendees could participate in either of the two and completed quests provided by the Late Nite staff, during which they truly embraced the role-play aspect of the Renaissance Faire.

Next, a costume contest was held, which attracted an excited audience. Cheers were heard from the crowd as contestants played a range of instruments and recited Shakespearean sonnets. Winners were determined by challenging one another to duels, with both parties displaying great sportsmanship throughout the competition, often ending in a friendly embrace.

While attendees made crafts and participated in carnival games and role-play, the Old Union Hall offered a food hall experience, with options like bread rolls, chicken spiedies, grilled vegetables, mini doughnuts and sheet cake. Medieval lyres and hymns played in the background during the festivities.

Downstairs, as karaoke was sung between two rounds of costume contests, attendees were offered Butterbeer and a selection of exotic, specialty mocktails as refreshments.

The festival was a clear success, with the University Union full of attendees participating in Renaissance-themed activities. Dressed in a fur shawl, Rivera shared what the Late Nite Renaissance Faire means to him.

“In the past, we’ve always done Fantasy Night,” Rivera said. “But this was such a perfect opportunity to explore different types of cultures, explore foods, activities — things that people enjoy.”

However, LUMA is just one example of the thriving arts scene found off campus. Historic house museums, galleries and music spheres light the way downtown and serve as memorable weekend excursions for students.

From Front Street to the edge of Endicott, here are a couple of opportunities for students living off campus to dive into downtown’s art scene.

First Friday Art Walk [BOLD]

Just as the name hints, the first Friday of every month hosts a myriad of artistic events downtown. The First Friday Art Walk is a local tradition — it’s the perfect time to explore new exhibitions in the participating galleries, view pieces from local children and artists and walk through permanent collections. Hosted by the Broome County Arts Council at 223 State St., this event attracts visitors all over the downtown area.

Venues like Atomic Tom’s often have musical contributions to the festivities, while historic houses, art galleries and museums open their doors to tours and special activities. Take a walk while the weather is warm and find hidden gems on every corner. These Fridays make the restaurants bustle and Binghamton’s artistic spirit bright.

The Forum Theatre 

With a beautiful, classic interior and a broad range of performances every month, the Forum Theatre at 236 Washington St. is a drama lover’s dream. Whether it’s stand-up comedy, annual favorites like SerlingFest or renditions of Broadway classics, this theatre truly has something for everyone. t’s a great place to support actors and even catch the Binghamton Philharmonic and Tri-Cities Opera.

The theatre has a rich history in the performing and visual arts and upcoming events include music from iconic bands and movies. The events list is available online and new additions are added frequently, making it a local favorite that’s been putting on performances for over a hundred years.

The Bundy Museum of History and Art 

The Bundy Museum is a well-recognized name on the Binghamton University campus, but the extent of its programming is often underappreciated. The Victorian exterior is hard to miss on 127-129 Main St. The art gallery offers free admission, with photography and artistic exhibitions displayed within the historic home.

There’s also open mic nights for poets, comedians and musicians. Local bands perform on the regular and ghost tours are led through the halls, ushering in the Halloween season. From punk and metal to karaoke open mics, the Bundy Museum is always keeping its space alive and rocking — even if they’re hosting Binghamton Deathfest.

Roberson Museum 

Continuing with the museum theme, the Roberson is another gorgeous exterior with a vibrant arts scene within. This historic home at 30 Front St. is the perfect place to transport back in time and learn about the Roberson family through their belongings, while also discovering Binghamton’s history. One current exhibit, “Beaded Birds in Haudenosaunee Art,” combines often overlooked aspects of Binghamton’s local history and the construction of beautiful pieces on display.

The gallery frequently holds workshops in different artistic mediums. From beadwork to oil paintings, there are many ways to express yourself and learn some new techniques.

Whether you live in Newing College, Dickinson Community, College-in-the-Woods, Mountainview College, Hinman College or the Apartments, there are a variety of ways to get involved in your community.

Newing College

Newing College is known for its vibrant traditions and social community. Its oldest tradition is Newing Navy, hosted in the spring semester to celebrate the new season and featuring karaoke, games, dances and a bouncy house.

Promoting diversity and inclusiveness, Newing College is also home to the Lavender Living Community, an all-inclusive, supportive residential experience for LGBTQ+ students and allies. During Homecoming weekend, Newing College hosts several events for residents and alumni to chat or play a friendly game of co-rec volleyball and football.

Dickinson Community 

Dickinson Community houses one of the most active community governments. The Dickinson Town Council helps organize many social events, such as Semi-Formal and Mutant Mania, a competition between all the community buildings in the spring, featuring athletic events like football, volleyball, frisbee and more.

Dickinson also has CoRE — Computer, Robotics and Engineering — a learning living community in O’Connor Hall. To all the football fanatics, Dickinson Community hosts co-rec football every fall, available for all students to participate.

College-in-the-Woods 

College-in-the-Woods is one of Binghamton’s oldest communities, and it fosters many cultural traditions. Casino-in-the-Woods, one of the oldest traditions at College-in-the-Woods, turns the dining hall into a fully functioning Casino featuring real games that allow players to win real money.

For a night filled with free snacks and live music, stop by the Woods Jam, a night where student bands perform for the community. Like other residential communities, College-in-the-Woods also has friendly sports competitions at its Woods Olympics, featuring volleyball, basketball and relay races as well as co-rec football outside of the event.

Mountainview College 

Mountainview College is known for Mountainview Jams, a space for students to perform or enjoy live shows. In the fall, students can enjoy a fall-themed gathering where they can paint pumpkins while sipping on cider.

The community also hosts Salamander Days, an event in the spring where yellow spotted salamanders slowly emerge from within the Nature Preserve, located just across the road. To celebrate this natural milestone, the Mountainview College community competes in a series of contests.

Hinman College 

Hinman College is filled with energy and spirit, home to the largest student council in Binghamton. Dorm Wars is a tradition in the fall semester where each building competes under a chosen theme in a variety of events. The spring is home to Hysteria, an annual competition similar to Dorm Wars that features games, performances and Hinman pride.

This living community also has its own theatre company — the Hinman Production Company — open to all students looking to get involved in musicals, plays and comedy showcases.

The Apartments 

While the Apartments may be a bit further from campus, the community still hosts several events throughout the year to foster community. The Apartments staff and student government host different social events during Welcome Weekend for new and returning students. During Family Weekend, Residential Life hides thousands of rubber ducks around the community for family and students to find and exchange for prizes.

One of the largest events hosted by the Apartments is its carnival at the end of the spring semester to celebrate a successful year. Featuring inflatables, games, food, photo booths and more, this event is open to all residential students.

No matter which living community you call home, the University makes it easy for you to get involved and make new friends. So step out of your comfort zone, check out events and see what your community has to offer — you might just find your new favorite school tradition.

4. Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center 

This dining hall serves as the home base for Dickinson and Newing residents. Beyond the daily rotating menu selections, C4 boasts Simple Servings, an allergen-free station, Kosher Korner, and its showcase — Serrano, a 100% Halal Chipotle-style build-your-own station.

Perhaps the most controversial dining hall among students, C4 might offer more than what meets the eye. Ignoring any alleged food poisoning stories, the options at C4 are fairly diverse and optimal for students with religious or allergy-based dietary restrictions.

Its low ranking, however, is attributed to the dim lighting, long, cafeteria-style tables and low ceilings that contribute to the dingy atmosphere. Even Nite Owl’s curly fries and milkshakes aren’t worth the mood-killing interior design.

3. Appalachian Collegiate Center

Similar to C4, a key benefit of Appalachian Collegiate Center is Nite Owl. Whether you’re on the hunt for a midnight snack or you had a late-night lecture, you can always make the uphill trek to Mountainview and swing by for all your after-hours needs.

Besides the typical Sizzle grill, salad bar, deli sandwiches and daily desserts characteristic of all of the University’s dining halls, Appalachian Collegiate Center also offers Simple Servings and its weekly rotating showcase station — arguably the only unique feature of its dining options.

What is unique, however, is the abundance of natural lightning as a result of the window panels lining every wall of the seating area. If you’re able to snag a seat by the window, you’re met with a photo-worthy view of sprawling trees, hills and campus spread out in front of you. They really do call it “Mountainview” for a reason.

2. College-in-the-Woods Dining Center

If you don’t live in College-in-the-Woods, you might not be as familiar with everything the Dining Center has to offer. Located off the beaten path, the walk to College-in-the-Woods might not be worth it for everyone.

Though the College-in-the-Woods Dining Center arguably has some of the traits that leave C4 atmospherically low, the bustling student life, music — shout out to whoever chooses those tunes, by the way — and communal tables make for a more comfortable coziness that’s great for an early morning omelet before a dreaded 8 a.m. lecture. It’s your only option, by the way, since despite lacking the Nite Owl hours of C4 and the Appalachian Collegiate Center, CIW opens at 7 a.m. sharp every weekday, an hour earlier than any other dining hall on campus.

The dining hall’s unique offerings include its weekly rotating Dinner at Ultimate and a showcase station. What the Dining Center lacks in variety, it makes up for in quality. Next time you hear word of its mac and cheese on the daily menu, stop by for a bite.

1. Hinman Dining Center

If this ranking were based purely on variety, Hinman Dining Center would clear without a moment of hesitation. Beyond the classic stations available at every dining hall, its offered cuisine includes Noodle House, Grains Gone Great and brunch donut holes on weekdays. Outside of the dining hall area, the building also boasts the campus’ Starbucks location and upstairs, Garbanzo, a build-your-own Mediterranean spot worth the dent it makes in your dining dollars if you stop by too frequently.

Whether you’re looking to study, chat with friends or enjoy an outdoor view, there’s plenty of seating available at Hinman Dining Hall. Like the Appalachian Collegiate Center, the Hinman Dining Center is warmed by outdoor lighting. Even better, though, is the option to enjoy your meal on the rooftop, soaking up the sun — or whatever weather Binghamton chooses to have that day — and overlooking the Hinman College residential community.

The list below is designed to help you build your off-campus routine, whether you have a car or rely on public transportation.

Grocery Stores 

Wegmans (650 Harry L Drive, Johnson City)

Wegmans is a staple for off-campus students looking to find quality groceries. While somewhat distant from the Downtown Binghamton area, Wegmans is a great stop to find whatever groceries you need for your meal prepping schedule. It doesn’t match the affordability of ALDI or the accessibility to downtown living of Weis, but it makes up for what it lacks in variety and quality.

ALDI (560 Harry L Drive, Suite 50, Johnson City)

Located just down the street from Wegmans, ALDI serves as an affordable alternative to Wegmans and Weis. Equipped with everything you need to cook on your own, ALDI offers quality ingredients at a reasonable price. Just remember to bring a quarter — ALDI shopping carts can’t be unlocked without a coin!

Weis Markets (50 Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 4, Binghamton)

Weis is a great option for grocery shopping for those living in Downtown Binghamton without a car. Walkable from most resident hotspots, Weis is one of the only truly accessible grocery stores for off-campus students living in downtown. While it’s not quite as affordable as ALDI, Weis is a convenient way to get carless groceries in a pinch.

Clothing 

Formal wear – Boscov’s (11 Court St., Binghamton)

Whether you’re prepping for an interview or getting suited up for your next job fair, heading to Boscov’s is a quick and convenient way to ensure you are dressed appropriately, no matter what the occasion.

If you’re looking for formal wear at any price, the department store is suited to fit your attire needs. It lacks firepower in the casual wear department, but as a student, Boscov’s can be a lifesaver if you ever forget your business clothes at home.

Casual wear – Oakdale Commons (601-635 Harry L Drive, Johnson City)

The Oakdale Commons shopping center has a variety of retailers, complete with casual clothing stores like Hollister and American Eagle. There aren’t many retail options in the Greater Binghamton area, so Oakdale Commons stands out as a solid hotspot for shopping if that’s on your to-do list.

Thrifted clothes – Goodwill NYNJ Store & Donation Center (3701 Vestal Parkway E., Vestal)

Thrifting has become more and more popular over the past few years, and there’s no more convenient a place to shop on a budget than the Goodwill off Vestal Parkway. It’s located just minutes away from the Binghamton University campus and is serviced by OCC Transport if you don’t want to make the walk. You never know what gems you might find on the racks at the unbeatable price of a local thrift.

Pharmacies

Walgreens (37 Pennsylvania Ave., Binghamton)

Walgreens is the closest chain pharmacy to Downtown Binghamton for all of your pharmacy and convenience needs. A simple and familiar option, there isn’t much better or more accessible for most off-campus residents.

Another option is the CVS on 249-253 1/2 Main St., Binghamton, but it’s an easy choice based on which is closest to you.

Household essentials and school supplies 

Target (3112 Vestal Parkway E., Vestal)

A tried and true option for any household necessities, Target is conveniently serviced by OCC Transport and has anything you need from quick groceries to furniture and decorations. At a slightly higher price than Walmart, you will find a huge selection of quality items at Target.

Walmart (2405 Vestal Parkway E., Vestal)

Located just down the road from Target, Walmart sells a similar variety of retail, grocery and hygiene items at a discounted price. While you might not find as many brand names or quality items at Walmart, they have you covered with the basics.

Best Buy (3209 Vestal Parkway E., Vestal)

While Walmart and Target have most of what you need to get back to school, Best Buy provides a more specialized tech-based shopping experience. If you’re looking for new chargers, a laptop or a home console for your new apartment, Best Buy can meet any of your tech needs. In the digital age, it’s an important staple of your school shopping experience.

Fitness 

Planet Fitness (4700 Vestal Parkway E., Vestal) or (10 Glenwood Ave., Binghamton)

Moving away from campus might mean you need to find a new way to get to the gym. Luckily, there are two Planet Fitness options located in the Greater Binghamton area, with one conveniently nested in the nearby U-Club lot.

For casual lifters and fitness enthusiasts alike, these are solid options if you’re looking for a pump while living off campus.

With works dating from the beginning of the interwar period to the conclusion of World War II, the show spans a particularly tumultuous quarter-century, which includes the Roaring ’20s, the Great Depression, the implementation of the New Deal and the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The exhibition shows a particular strength of the Binghamton University Art Museum’s collection, many of which were donated by local art collectors Gil and Deborah Williams in 2016. There are also several loans included in the show, with pieces made available from the BU libraries, the Roberson Museum and Science Center and the Art Bridges Collection.

Originally conceived by Professor McDonough and Chelsea Gibson, the director of the Binghamton Codes! Program, the showcase is the result of a pandemic-era project supported by Art Bridges to create digital exhibitions and programming to make art more accessible. At the opening, Professor McDonough remarked that “[Gibson’s] fingerprints are still on this here tonight.”

The exhibition incorporates the original project’s thematic categories: Americans Abroad; City Life; Everyday Americans; Government; Labor, Modernism; Picturing Black Lives; Protest; Rural Life and Labor; The West; War Time; and Women.

The categories are roughly chronological, with the first artwork being Jane Peterson’s 1919 painting “Courtyard of the Doges’ Palace, Venice” of the American tourists that flocked to Europe and its “revered landscapes and renowned museums” from the home they deemed a “cultural backwater.” The exhibition concludes with “Landscape with truck and barracks, Oct 1st 10 A.M.” and “Landscape before the rain, Oct 10th, 1942 7 P.M,” both by Chiura Obata. The two ink drawings depict the Utah internment camp where Obata was detained for being Japanese American.

The progression of the two is one of the few cynical moments of the show, which otherwise details how American artists responded to the tumultuous moment and grappled with the concept of American art and who is included in the country’s hopes and ideals. While innovations of this period are seen across the many works of the show, Obata’s spare and unremitting landscapes depict one of the main constants throughout American history — the need for change and an expansion of the definition and rights of American citizens.

Beyond the limits that American artists like Obata faced during this period, the exhibition showcases how the art world welcomed individuals beyond the wealthy, white, usually male demographic. Women and Black Americans had more autonomy to live and work as artists, often representing themselves and their concerns in new and innovative ways.

One that does this in a particularly interesting manner is James Lesesne Wells’ “Untitled (Man Carving Idols),” dated to around 1929. In this work, Wells, a Black artist, depicts an image of the white artist in his studio creating his own idols. In this space, the idol is removed from its original context and purpose, which often was not as an art object, and used instead as a source of inspiration for “modern art’s experimentation.” He uses this “white European idiom” for this image, demonstrating the complicated relationship the artist likely had with the use of African imagery, divorced from its original meaning by American artists.

Another fascinating example of the ways the boundaries of American art shifted during this period, while still leaving room for change and growth, can be seen in Helen Torr’s self portrait on loan from Art Bridges. The portrait’s intense and arresting gaze is enhanced by the equally noxious and intoxicating green light that casts over Torr. This lets the portrait expand beyond the canvas, making a home close to its viewers, whether that is welcome or not.

While conceived of in a very different political moment, the tension that this exhibition explores surrounding questions of American art and identity are remarkably prescient in the current political climate, at a time where the federal government has attempted to revoke arts funding from programming that promotes “diversity, equity and inclusion” or “gender ideology” in favor of “[reflecting] the nation’s rich artistic heritage and creativity as prioritized by the President.”

“Those things [have] always been a question of who gets to fall under that umbrella of representation, and one of the exciting, inspiring things about American art is that you know art has been a space where that’s really been fought out, like, played out, you know, argued over,” McDonough said.

Currently based in the northern suburbs of New York City, the band has played for several years in the Westchester area. In the past, they played “A Hard Day’s Night” as the “record of the month” at a local music venue. Barry Witt ‘80, the band’s lead guitarist and vocalist, explained the process of being able to perform at the University’s annual Homecoming weekend.

“Since I have been playing in a band, The Any Time At All Band, I thought it would be great if we could play on campus,” Witt wrote in an email. “Just by chance, 3 of the 4 members of the band were Binghamton alumni (one is unable to attend this performance at Homecoming), so we thought it would be a great opportunity to come back to campus for the Homecoming weekend and visit our alma mater. I have been to several Homecoming weekends in the past and saw several bands perform there, so I suggested to Alicia Casper, the Alumni Events Coordinator, that maybe our band could come back to perform, and, thankfully, my offer was accepted.”

Band members Aidan Burns ’97, on rhythm guitar, keyboard and vocals, David Nodiff ’84, on bass guitar and vocals and Witt all pursued STEM degrees during their time at the University while also participating in the local music scene. Sean Vinci, the band’s drummer and vocalist, who attended Berklee College of Music, will also be performing at Homecoming. Burns, who took music department classes during his time at the University, is unable to attend.

Witt recalled that music was everywhere during his time at the University, blaring out of dorm windows and on-campus music venues. Additionally, famous bands like The Kinks, Eagles and Talking Heads performed on campus and in the local area.

“My wife and I performed as a duo at several on campus shows including Delaware Days and the Newing Follies, and I performed at the Broome Closet in the basement of Broome Hall,” he wrote. “I was also a member of the on-campus band, Bondy, which included well-known alumnus, Marc Lawrence, ’81, as well as Paul Bogas, ’81, and Barry Pociask, ’81. Remarkably, Bondy was written up in the Pipe Dream in an article where we were described as ‘SUNY-B’s #1 Band.’”

Nodiff explained that he attended the 25th anniversary Homecoming in 2009 and visited campus when his son was a student. During his time at the University, Nodiff participated in various ensembles.

“I loved playing in the orchestra and with the pit band for shows,” Nodiff wrote in an email. “It allowed me to continue playing cello, which was my first instrument. Sue Peters, who directed the music for the shows, was one of my favorite people and she gave me an opportunity to play both cello and bass.”

“That has continued to be the catalyst for my involvement with playing gigs, even today,” he continued.

The Any Time At All Band will primarily play Beatles songs, incorporating well-known hits and deep cuts that the audience may not be familiar with. Witt said the band emphasizes being as true to the original songs as possible, learning the parts for the Beatles’ “incredible vocal harmonies.”

The alumni band is a testament to Binghamton’s lasting impact on students. Both Witt and Nodiff’s children attended the University, and Witt, along with his wife Marjorie Strelzyn ’81, has continued to be an active member of the community through the alumni board and campaigns.

Witt and Strelzyn also created the Strelzyn-Witt A-OK Acts of Kindness Scholarship, which awards students with “fine character” and helps others through repeated acts of kindness. Witt said they are working to develop another scholarship, Say Yes to Success, to allow students who would have been unable to explore their academic passion to do so.

“I am hoping that students will see that as alumni, we have a strong life-long connection to the University, and that even if music is not your day job, it can enrich your life and provide a great outlet,” Witt wrote. “I hope that we can inspire the students to want to maintain their ties to the University after they leave and to continue to contribute to its future success. Finally, I would be pleased if our performance of the Beatles’ music will improve their appreciation of classic rock music and the history of that period in the 1960s when the music really revolutionized the world.”

Each drink has its own distinct flavor profile setting it apart. From classic pumpkin spice flavoring to buttery pecan notes, this year’s menu offers a curated selection of fall staples for whatever you feel that day, whether it be iced or hot.

As you settle into the academic year and look for an energy boost, consider trying these cozy fall beverages.

Pumpkin Spice Latte [BOLD]

Any fall menu is defined by its pumpkin spice latte. This drink is a highly anticipated seasonal classic, and for good reason. Marked with hints of spice and cinnamon between the warm creaminess of its coffee blend, this latte evokes classic fall flavors. Best served hot, the drink warms you up with autumnal notes without overdoing it, making it the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. This favorite is a great choice for a simple yet flavorful drink that is sure to get you in the fall spirit.

Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew [BOLD]

An iced drink may seem like an odd choice for the chilly months ahead, but for the sporadically warm days, the pumpkin cream cold brew is a great choice for anyone looking for a new iced option. Topped with cream, the cold brew is not too sweet, allowing for just a hint of pumpkin to come through. As the drink is on the simpler side, the pumpkin cream cold brew is perfect for anyone seeking something new without straying too far from their preferences.

Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai [BOLD]

This is definitely a sweeter option compared to the other items — and a great choice for anyone looking for something dessert-like. The chai base sets itself apart from the coffee-based drinks, and the pumpkin cream works perfectly in creating a drink that is based on complementary flavor profiles. Rather than clash in a way that a robust coffee flavor and pumpkin spice might, the spices in the chai base and pumpkin overtone blend perfectly. Sprinkled with cinnamon, the drink is a great option for non-coffee drinkers who still want to take part in one of the most anticipated seasonal releases.

Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte [BOLD]

Defined mostly by its vanilla base, this drink blends coffee with its nutty roots, making it a lighter option for those turned away by coffee’s bitterness. Though it has a different taste than the rest of the fall drinks, the pecan crunch oatmilk latte is very similar to the vanilla latte on Starbucks’ regular menu. This made the drink less autumn-esque compared to the other pumpkin-based items. While it may not be as distinctive as the other items on the menu, the pecan crunch oatmilk latte is still a delicious option.

Whether you love coffee or typically opt for tea-based beverages, Starbucks’ fall drink menu has an option for everyone. As classes pick up and caffeine becomes a necessity, welcome the approaching colder days with everything Starbucks has to offer.