97.12

The Clocktower

February 1, 2023

Issue 12, Volume 97

Black History Month

A time to recognize and pay homage

February is celebrated as Black History Month, a time to recognize and pay homage to the numerous achievements and contributions that Black Americans have had to our nation’s history. It is important to reflect on the accomplishments of Black people throughout history and to recognize the ongoing work toward equality and justice.

A notable figure in politics is the late Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to the U.S. Congress. Chisholm paved the way for future generations of Black women in politics and was a vocal advocate for women’s rights, education and economic empowerment.

In the field of science, we celebrate George Washington Carver, an agricultural scientist and inventor who revolutionized farming in the South by developing new crops and techniques.

Black

History Month ©University of Columbia School of Professional Studies

He was a strong advocate for education and used his scientific knowledge to better the lives of African Americans.

Sports have been shaped by the achievements of Black Americans, including the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali and the tennis champion Serena Williams. These athletes have used their platform to bring attention to important social and political issues.

Editor–in–Chief

Annika Cambigue

Assistant Editor

Annelise Jacobs

Lead Photographer

Joseph Lee

Assistant Photographer

Christopher Jacobo

Assistant Photographer

Reef Peckham

Layout Editor

Shelby Jongema

Assistant Layout Editor

Arlyse Wash

Web Manager

Justin Anderson

Social Media Manager

Mariah Lee-Wong

NEWS

Editor

Lyndsey Elsey

Student Life and CM

Charles Metz

SA, Senate and Safety

Andrew Schwartz

Academics and Residential

Robert Tengker

ENTERTAINMENT

Editor

Hannah Olin

Sports

Fortune Ogulere

Pop Culture

Evan Majors

Comedy

Lacey Stecker

LIFESTYLE

Editor

Brian Peoples

Nebraska Politics

Aubrey Benton

Outlook

Gabriel Sanders

Nebraska Life

Sidney Needles

The arts are enriched by the contributions of Black Americans, including the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and the world-renowned poet Maya Angelou. These artists used their talents to express the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, inspiring others to do the same.

It is also important that we not just reflect on the past, but also look at what is currently happening in the United States today. There are countless instances where bias and hate have caused innocent lives to be lost. We as a society must continue to educate ourselves and actively work towards dismantling the systems of oppression that continue to impact the Black community. We all should take some time to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial justice and evaluate how we as a school can become leaders in the fight for equality.

Andrew Allen is a senior communication major from Brownsboro, Texas.

Music festival

Union College welcomes high school choir students

CNTRD

New monthly worship event

This weekend, Union College is excited to welcome many high school students to its campus as they prepare for the Spring Music Festival. The event will focus on the choral arts. Union College is hosting student vocalists from all over the Mid-America Union of Seventh-day Adventists.

The participants will spend time practicing during different sessions throughout the long weekend as they gear up for large performances Friday night at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday night at 5 p.m. The performances will be live at College View Church and live streamed via uTV.

The Music Festival is a way for attendees to learn more about music from talented music professors in a hands-on environment. Be sure to greet all our visitors with a friendly wave or smile, as many of them will be on our campus for the first time.

Towards the end of last semester, Campus Ministries (CM) decided to change up the environment for its regular Friday night “Family Worship” service. The event was successful, and CM decided to make it a regular occurrence on campus.

“CNTRD” is a different sort of worship service where the stage is not used. CM staff rearrange chairs in Woods Auditorium to accommodate for the worship team to be directly in the center of the audience. The entire program is focused on worship music, prayer and testimonies.

The first CNTRD program was hosted on Dec. 9, right before the end of the Fall 2022 semester. Worship leaders Kianna Frishman, a junior social work major who serves as CM Worship Coordinator, Andy Obregon, a sophomore business major, and others led the songs. The audience joined them in praise. Many students shared testimonies with a roaming microphone as well.

CNTRD is destined to have a serious spot in our campus’ event schedule, centering our campus on worship and praise to Jesus.

UC Singers ©Chris Jacobo

Charles Metz is a sophomore theology major from Lincoln, Neb.

New SA games coming

Join wacky weekday to earn cool prizes

The Union College Student Association team is excited to announce a new event that will be occurring every week called, “wacky weekday”. Each week, there will be one small activity on campus where you can participate in a different game for the chance to win prizes.

Social Vice President Jacob Sanchez said, “We want to offer something to the students when Union already has preplanned Saturday nights, like during the music festival or tournament. We also want to be able to offer something to do for students outside of the normal Saturday night activities this semester. We felt like this would be a great way for that, and for students to get a study break.”

Sanchez offered a sneak peek of some of the games, “We are going to start out with a game of operation, where if students win then they can get a small prize. For this one, we will probably keep prizes pretty small so everyone has a chance to win. Later down the line we are going to switch it up, though, by offering games such as a mini basketball shooting competition. For this one we will tally up the points that everyone earned throughout the day, and offer prizes to the top performers.”

When asked if he was concerned about students not being able to participate because of class schedules he responded, “That’s not really a major concern of mine. We are going to have an SA member attending the booth from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., so I think that pretty much everyone would have at least a couple minutes in

that three hour block to play if they really wanted to.”

Wacky weekday starts today, Wednesday, Feb. 1.

Andrew Schwartz is a senior business administration major from Lincoln, Neb.

ON THE RADAR

THURS. 2/2/23

All Campus uGather | CVC, 10:35 a.m.

Nursing Fundraiser | Yogurtini, 5:00 p.m.

FRI. 2/3/23

Family Worship – Music Festival | CVC, 7:30 p.m.

SAT. 2/4/23

The Well | CVC, 9:45 a.m.

Worship Service | CVC, 11:00 a.m.

Music Festival Concert | CVC 5:00 p.m.

MON. 2/6/23

CPR Skills Session | IRR #223, 9:30 a.m.

TUES. 2/7/23

Women’s Basketball v. KCC (AWAY) | 5:00 p.m.

Men’s Basketball v. KCC (AWAY) | 7:00 p.m.

Students playing games ©Shelby Jongema

Preview Days

High school students visit Union College

During Preview Days, Union College offers potential students an opportunity to explore what the college has to offer. Students take a two day tour going over all of the campus. Whether it would be about building locations, classes, professors or even student resources such as Student Success, nothing is left out.

For people who are interested, there are multiple Preview Days in the semester. The first lasted from Jan. 26-27. The next Preview Days are later on in the semester March 23-24. Alternatively, prospective students can register for an individual visit. For an individual visit, potential students will have the opportunity to meet with admissions and scholarship advisors, talk one-on-one with professors and explore their strengths to help them find the right major. The third option are the virtual tours through Zoom. Visits through Zoom include meeting with a professor, talking about the future with a life coach reserved only to freshmans and discussing what potential scholarships a new student would be eligible for. These tours are available from Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Meetings on Friday will only last until noon. Visits during the weekends are not available.

to schedule pickup at the most convenient time. This must be arranged five days before the individual’s departure.

Union College offers reimbursement to individuals who travel to visit in the form of a $250 payment as well as free lodging for three days and nights. Food is also included in this reimbursement. Grad students are not eligible for a free visit, however they are still welcomed to tour the campus. Contact Brienne Englehart with any unanswered questions.

For other accommodation options, Union offers a complimentary pick up/drop off for visitors who are flying into Lincoln (LNK) or Omaha (OMA) airport. This can all be arranged ahead of time by emailing visit@ucollege.edu the necessary itinerary and the individual’s cell number in order

Preview Days students ©Union College

Robert Tengker is a sophomore nursing major from Orlando, Fla.

Superheroes in the box office

What to look forward to this year

such as Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldaña, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) wrestler-turnedactor Dave Bautista reprise their roles as Starlord, Gamora, Rocket Raccoon, Groot and Drax the Destroyer, respectively. This film will most notably be Bautista’s final project with Marvel, as the 54-yearold opted not to renew his contract once it expired, citing his desire to partake in more serious roles as he saw Drax as more of a comedic role.

The Flash

As we continue into the new year, a myriad of new movies are on the horizon. 2023 has the potential to be the year of the comic book movie, as both Marvel and DC have a lot in store due to COVID-19-related delays. Just a few of these up-and-coming films include:

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

The misfit group of heroes make their long-awaited return to the big screen on May 5, 2023. Originally slated for release in 2019 or 2020, the film’s production was pushed back due to Disney’s controversial firing of director James Gunn in 2018 and subsequent rehiring in 2019. This film will conclude the Guardian’s story as actors

Despite the many controversies surrounding lead actor Ezra Miller, Warner Brothers is moving forward with the much-anticipated stand-alone film. Miller will reprise their role as Barry Allen/The Flash. Miller has appeared several times as The Flash in the DC Extended Universe, but this will be the first film focused entirely on the character. Development began in 2020 but was delayed several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and director changes. The film’s ultimate director is Andy Muschietti and will follow The Flash as he deals with the consequences of traveling back in time to prevent his mother’s murder. The film is set to release on June 16, 2023.

Ant-Man: Quantumania

With release right around the corner on February 17, 2023, Paul Rudd and Evangeline Christie reprise their roles as Scott Lang/Ant-Man and Hope van Dyne/ The Wasp in the third installment of the Ant-Man franchise. Directed by Peyton Reed, the duo continues to explore the quantum realm, which pits them against Jonathan Majors’ Kang the Conqueror. This film, along with Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, will be the next installments in phase five of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy movie

©Marvel Mango

This year has the potential to bring in many memorable superhero films, so whether you’re a die-hard Marvel fan, a DC enjoyer or just a casual viewer, there are good things in store for you.

Evan Majors is a sophomore English and communication major from Lincoln, Neb.

The airport

When you’re asked to do the worst favor

“Will you drive me to the airport?” — the most dreaded words you’ll ever hear as a college student.

They’re your friend, you can’t just say no, but their flight leaves at 6 a.m. They need you to be ready to go at three in the morning. You don’t want to. But alas, you can’t become their enemy now.

“Sure,” you say with instant regret. Who needs sleep anyway? You can’t just abandon your friend to an early morning Uber. You’ll have to make do.

The day arrives to take them to the airport. You drag yourself out of bed 5 minutes before you have to leave. It’s just an hour’s drive to the airport, and sweatpants are your new best friend — at least better than the one making you drive to the airport.

Your friend loads their suitcase and hops into the front seat — yes, hops. They are

energized and excited to go on their grand adventure home. You wonder how much caffeine and sugar they must’ve consumed to literally be bouncing in their seat so early in the morning.

You’re still half asleep and roll your eyes as you turn on the radio and pull out of the parking lot. It’s “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles).” Your friend starts singing along. You love your friend, but singing is not their strong suit. You try changing the station. It’s “Party in the USA.” Your friend still sings along. You suddenly wonder if you can run your car into a ditch on the side of the road. Who would be in the mood to sing — or in this case to screech — to music after that? Only a crazy person would have the audacity. But looking over at your friend, you could swear you see the crazy in their eyes. It’s not worth the risk.

You turn off the radio. But it’s too little too late. Now they’re humming to themselves,

Airplane ©Joseph Lee

and when they aren’t, they’re asking a ton of ridiculous questions. Then you see it: the signs to the airport. You’re almost there, and as a bonus, you can ask for silence so you can concentrate without being rude.

You make it to the drop-off zone. They get out and unload the car. They pause to look at you. “What do I owe you?” Yikes. You obviously deserve compensation for the actual torture you just experienced.

“Oh, don’t worry about it.” No, you didn’t mean it! They smile and leave. You now understand what true misery is as you pull away from the airport.

Lacey Stecker is a senior English and communication major from Noblesville, Ind.

The Snow Angels Volunteer Program

Lincoln residents make a difference in their snowy communities

On Wednesday and Thursday of last week, Lincoln saw its first major snow of this winter. As students, this news was not very heartbreaking. We have an amazing Plant Services team that worked tirelessly to salt and clear our sidewalks. We got an extra day off of classes in the middle of the week — not to mention the sledding potential that had quite literally landed

onto our doorsteps. For the elderly and physically impaired residents of Lincoln, a snowstorm has bleaker implications. Unable to clear their driveways and sidewalks, those impaired may find themselves housebound. Things get especially tricky when their ability to buy groceries or make doctor appointments becomes inhibited.

The Lincoln Transportation and Utilities office had a problem. They were receiving copious calls from Lincoln residents in need of snow removal help. In response to this demand, the Snow Angels Volunteer program was created. Now, residents can visit the City of Lincoln Website where snow removal volunteers are displayed as snowflakes on a map. By clicking on the snowflake nearest them, residents can view the contact information for their very own “snow angel.” Those wishing to volunteer their help can list their availability and what tools are at their disposal, such as a snow blower. The simplicity of the program’s format makes it easy to navigate. Those in need have incredibly efficient access to those offering assistance.

The benefit of the Snow Angels Volunteer Program to the elderly and physically impaired is undeniable. It has significantly reduced the weight of the demand for snow removal services for the Transportation and Utilities Office and in many cases, it provides snow removal help to residents who would otherwise be unable to acquire it. Additionally, there is another layer to the benefits of the program. In the past, the individuals, families and church groups that have volunteered their time and energy receive as many blessings as they give out. The air may be brisk, and the sidewalks and streets may be frozen, but the hearts of the “snow angels” are warm and fuzzy.

From a practical standpoint, the program may be of specific appeal to Union Students. Various programs like Occupational Therapy Assistant, Nursing, and the Business Division require service hours or offer extra credit for it. Students who need to fulfill volunteer work requirements can sign up on the City of Lincoln website and wait for a Lincoln resident to reach out during the next snowfall. Sign up alone or grab a group of friends! The fantastic feeling of serving others awaits.

Sidney Needles is a senior international relations and history major from Centralia, Mo.

812 bills introduced to Nebraska Unicameral Pet insurance, student discipline, and medical marijuana

The Nebraska Legislature’s 2023 session started on January 4, 2023. The bill introduction period lasted until Wednesday, January 18, during which 814 bills were introduced. This falls short of the record 885 bills introduced in 1997.

Senator Dave Murman introduced Legislative Bill (LB) 811 which would revise the Student Discipline Act to allow educators the “use of physical contact or physical restraint or removal from a class in response to student behavior.” The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

Snow Angels Map ©Nebraska.gov

Legislation

©Pexels

Nebraska responded with the following statement: “The answer is more funding, resources and training for our hardworking educators — not opening the door for school staff to use more physical force on students. We will oppose this bill every step of the way and will advocate alongside parents, guardians and teachers to protect students’ rights.” The statement also raised concerns for how the bill would affect Black, indigenous, and disabled students who already experience disproportionate discipline and removal from class in educational settings.

Lincoln Senator Beau Ballard introduced LB 296, or the Pet Insurance Act. The bill would create a legal framework for the policies and consumer protections related to pet insurance. The consumer protections will include necessary disclosures on waiting periods, benefit schedules, the impact of preexisting conditions, and what services are excluded in the coverage.

According to The North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), the pet insurance sector is rapidly growing and exceeded $2.83 billion USD in 2021, making this bill a relevant inclusion to Nebraska legislation.

LB 764, introduced by Senator Loren Lippincott, would return Nebraska to the “winner-take-all” method of awarding electoral votes during presidential elections. Nebraska and Maine are the only states that do not follow this system, instead awarding electoral votes based on congressional district. Proposals like LB 764 have failed in past legislative sessions.

Another attempt at legalizing marijuana for medicinal use comes in the form of LB 588, the “Medical Cannabis Act,” introduced by Senator Anna Wishart of Lincoln.

Senator John Cavanaugh of Omaha introduced the Automatic Renewal Limitation Act (LB 132), which is intended as a consumer protection measure. The bill would require clear and conspicuous renewal terms for businesses that offer automatic renewal or continuous services. The bill also would require businesses that allow for consumers to accept automatic renewal/ continuous services online to also provide the ability for the consumers to terminate the service online without engaging steps that “obstruct or delay” the consumers ability to terminate. This bill will include services such as streaming platforms and magazines, but would likely have larger impacts on newspapers and gym memberships, which are notoriously difficult to cancel.

Icy slips and winter tips

4 pieces of cold-weather advice

From black ice on roads and constant frost on the windshield to windy sub-zero temperatures and finger-numbing walks to class, Midwest winters are not something to be joked about. If you are like me, you just can’t get enough of the brisk feeling in the air. Some of you, however, may feel out of place in the cold. Here is a list of tips that might help you survive a little longer in the Midwest this winter.

Aubrey Benton is a junior international relations major from Smithsburg, Md.

Hazardous

Always wear waterproof/resistant shoes

When the snow and ice is out, the boots are on. The more your shoes are resistant to the elements, the more comfortable and warm you will stay. You will want shoes that not only stay insulated, but also have decent grip. There have been times when what appears to be a mere puddle turns out to be a four-inch pool of water along a well-traveled trail or sidewalk.

Keep your vehicle/mode of transportation properly equipped

If you do drive a vehicle and you are prepping for the winter, I recommend that you keep an ice scraper in your car for those freezing mornings. I also suggest that you keep the antifreeze in your vehicle topped up. If there is a winter storm coming and you know you have to travel on a daily basis, I propose the idea of jumper cables, a blanket and a basic emergency medical kit.

Driving with icy roads

When driving on icy roads, the brake pedal is not your buddy. You will have several options when it comes to stopping your vehicle but a bumper hugger should not be one of them. Having lived in Florida, I did not learn this the easy way. I would start with pumping your brakes so those hard

stops do not turn into slides and crashes. If you do start to slide, don’t panic. Hold the wheel steady and let up on the break, then press it down again.

Dress for a mess

The wintery climate can be something that a lot of people have trouble with. But when it comes to clothes, I have a one word suggestion: layers. Layering when it is cold outside can be lifesaving. The difference between two layers and three could prevent those 15 mile-an-hour winds from bothering you and making you shiver. The next items on the wardrobe list come as a couple: gloves and a hat. Save those digits and ears from the cold with just a simple covering. It could be as simple as muffs or a snow cap for your ears. But when it comes to those precious phalanges, cover them up with some gloves.

So there you have it. Next time you think about walking outside in the cold, remember these tips. If you see someone struggling with this winter, offer to help them out! With the right tools, you’ll be a winter pro in no time.

conditions ©Reef Peckham

Gabriel Sanders is a sophomore English major from Apopka, Fla.