The Courier - Feb. 11, 2015

THE

COURIER

COLLEGE OF DUPAGE STUDENT NEWSPAPER \\ 11 FEBRUARY 2015 \\ VOLUME 48, ISSUE 18

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

The story of Jack Johnson The Courier’s sports editor profiles an unknown heavyweight in the sport of boxing IN SPORTS | PAGE 12 >

PERSPECTIVES ON VALENTINE’S DAY IN FEATURES | PAGE 9>

5 TIPS TO MAKE YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL IN COFFEE BREAK | PAGE 14>

BE SOCIAL MEDIA READY SPRING 2015 CHAPARRAL CAREER ADVANTAGE

How can you get employers to learn more about you as a professional? Social media is your answer. Just as job seekers research companies, employers research candidates. Discover how social media can help you stand out. For more information, please contact the Career Services Center, (630) 942-2230 or csc@cod.edu.

INSTABRAND YOUR CAREER Thursday, Feb. 26

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Registration is encouraged: www.cod.edu/careerservices_workshops

give the status quo a status update.

THIS WAY UP. JUNIOR AND SENIOR VISIT DAY

2 // codcourier.org // 11 February 2015

Saturday, February 21, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Chicago Campus

REGISTER TODAY: (877) 277-5978 roosevelt.edu/admission

THE

COURIER

EDITOR IN CHIEF Joash Mencias News Editor Taira Alabi OPINION EDITOR Maggie Curran FEATURES EDITOR Kelly Wynne SPORTS EDITOR Joash Mencias COPY & DESIGN EDITOR Ashlee Berner PHOTO EDITOR Lucas Koprowski

INDEX NEWS

OPINION

4 Spring enrollment ticks up

10 Access codes not worth it

FEATURES

SPORTS

7 Pop culture’s somber winter

12 The story of Jack Johnson

9 Point/Counterpoint: Valentine’s Day

COFFEE BREAK

14 Five tips and more

SPORTS REPORTER Ben Grote

C O R R E C T I O N S & C L A R I F I C AT I O N S NEWSROOM 630-942-2683 ADVISER Jim Fuller fullerj103@cod.edu

Catch an error we didn’t see? Tell us about it. Send an email to editor@cod.edu.

ADVERTISING Christina Payton paytonc359@cod.edu

The Courier is published every Wednesday when classes are in session during the fall and spring semester, except for the first and last Wednesday of each semester and the week of and the week after spring break as a public forum with content chosen by student editors. One copy free, additional copies available upon request.

The Courier does not knowingly accept advertisement that discriminate on the basis of sex, creed, religion, color, handicapped status, veteran or sexual orientation, nor does it knowingly print ads that violate any local, state or federal laws.

Deliver all correspondence to SSC 1220 between regular office hours or mail to the Courier, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL. 60137.

Online 24/7 at www.codcourier.org

ON THE COVER A photo collage of Jack Johnson, heavyweight boxer. Collage by Lucas Koprowski.

“The weather outside is frightful, but is College of DuPage still open?”

Get updates on campus closings this winter through The Courier’s social media accounts and website. codcourier.org | @CODCourier | facebook.com/CODCourier

For breaking news and campus updates, follow us on Twitter: @CODCourier

Like us on Facebook for links to our stories and more: www.facebook.com/CODCourier

11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 3

NEWS

NEWS BRIEFS

Spring enrollment up 3.6 percent

New American Welding Society certificate The College of DuPage will now offer an American Welding Society certificate. The 17-credit hour program will prepare students for entry-level positions in the metalworking field. The certificate was recently approved by the Illinois Community College Board.

“The American Welding Society certificate provides students with industry recognized credentials that will jumpstart their careers,” COD board Chairman Erin Birt said in a news release.

The certificate includes five new courses. Upon completion, students can take the the required test to become certified.

New mechatronics technology certificate The College of DuPage now offers a mechatronics technology certificate. The certificate will teach students skills in mechanics, electronics, industrial electronics and computer control.

The certificate, which was recently approved by the Illinois Community College Board, will assist students in securing entry-level positions as systems and automation technicians, maintenance technicians, automation specialists, human/machine interface programmers and controls specialists.The 16 credit-hour certificate will feature one new class, “Electricity and Electronics for Mechatronics,” and five existing courses.

Salsa/Merengue/Bachata Dance The Latin American Studies Committee and Casa de Amigos will host the Salsa/Merengue/Bachata Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. Feb. 13. in the Student Services Center, room 1200. Dance lessons will be provided from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by open dancing. Refreshments will be available throughout the night.

African-American Film Festival In honor of Black History Month, the McAninch Arts Center will host two film festivals Feb.13 and Feb. 19.

The screenings will take place from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. in MAC Room 153. The films shown will examine African-American life and culture through cinema. There will be an opportunity to discuss the films and the topics addressed in them.

See something on campus?

Say something about it.

Send news tips to news@cod.edu.

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COD NEWS BUREAU

College of DuPage posted enrollment gains for the spring 2015 term. Overall enrollment reached 29,108 students.

TAIRA ALABI NEWS EDITOR

For College of DuPage students, the college reaching its largest spring enrollment yet might mean a longer wait in line at Starbucks or less open parking spots. But for Earl Dowling, vice president of student affairs, the higher enrollment means the hard work him and his colleagues put in has proved useful.

“It’s reaffirmation that all the work that went into, say reducing tuition, has paid off.”

Dowling said.

This spring, COD achieved its highest enrollment yet, enrolling 29,108 students with 15,952 full-time students.

Compared to last spring, overall enrollment increased 3.6 percent.

COD is the only community college in the state to grow in full-time enrollment in the past 5 years, according to the Illinois

Community College Board.

Dowling believes that this is due to COD’s commitment to appeal to non-traditional students.

President Robert Breuder also felt that COD had found a way to separate itself from other colleges.

“We have differentiated ourselves through our programs, faculty, facilities and innovation,” Breuder said in a news release. “This historic enrollment substantiates our hard work.”

Beyond the numbers, Dowling enjoys seeing the stories of the students that come to COD. “I am struck most by the stories from students telling me about their experiences [at COD],” Dowling said.

One story in particular that Dowling remembers came from a mother of a student earning his masters in IT at a presti-

gious institution.

“She told me that it wouldn’t of been possible without COD,” Dowling said. “ When I see that COD is setting enrollment records, I see that students are recognizing our quality.”

KEY FIGURES SPRING 2015

29,108 students

(3.6 percent increase compared to last spring)

15,952 full-time students

(2.1 percent increase compared to last spring)

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11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 5

THIS IS SIU.

NEWS

Q+A

Student Trustee Omar Escamilla As the College Of DuPage board of trustees was criticized over President Robert Breuder’s $763,000 severance package, there was a COD student who experienced the backlash firsthand. Omar Escamilla has served as student trustee since last April. On March 17 and March 18, students will have the opportunity to elect a new student trustee. The Courier talked to Escamilla to see a student’s role on the board of trustees.

COD.EDU

Achieve More.

Together. ΄ d]QRaUaMQdMcR \MX^ab ΄ 2QdZc MPPRZRaMcRQ QRUaRR P^\_ZRcW^] _a^UaM\b ΄ 4^d]bRZ^ab ^]͚bWcR c^ \MYR cVR caM]bSRa _a^PRbb RMbh We seek to develop strong, capable graduates who build successful careers.

Our most popular transfer majors include aviation, criminal/ social justice, education, nursing, healthcare leadership, and business.

College of DuPage transfer credit is pre-approved through existing agreements

What do you do as the student trustee? “It’s not just going to the board meetings. You are allowed to sit in on closed sessions and you get all the confidential documents that the board of trustees get. I get to see everything.

I represent the student’s voice on the board of trustees.�

Does the student trustee vote count? “It is an advisory vote. It does not legally count, but the board members do take it into account. Student trustees always vote first, so my vote isn’t influenced by any of the other trustees.�

What was it like being the student trustee this year? “Life’s a climb but the view is great. I don’t think I was prepared for the amount of media attention. I wasn’t really used to that environment...I learned to take criticism. There are always going to be people with different viewpoints.

It is important to listen to them.�

What do you say to people who believe that the student trustee position is just a resume booster? “That is not true. I probably spent over 25 hours a week working on this position.

It is a voluntary position.

You do not get paid. There is this misconception that it is just showing up to board meetings. It is great to put on your resume but you worked really hard to put that on your resume.�

How did you become student trustee?

Escamilla said that he filed a petition and ran a campaign. To his advantage, his four competitors dropped out of the race, leaving Escamilla the only candidate running. This year, Escamilla wants to ensure that as many students as possible run for student trustee and stay in the race.

Petitions are available in

the Office Of Student Life, SSC 1217, until Friday, Feb. 20.

Why do you want to encourage students to run for student trustee and vote for the trustees in the upcoming election? “We need a student voice right now everything that is going on at the college, I want other students to have the same opportunities I have. I am willing to talk to anyone who wants to be the student trustee.�

Escamilla can be reached in the Student Leadership Council office in the Student Services Center room 2214 or via email at bot-escamilla@cod.edu.

Learn more about our on-site undergraduate program: Î&#x201E; ÎŽ 4^\_dcRa EPWR]PR QRUaRR Î&#x201E; ÎŽ 4aW\W]MZΧE^PWMZ <dbcWPR QRUaRR Î&#x201E; 6]VM]PRQ ÎŽ FRMPVRa 6QdPMcW^] QRUaRRb Í&#x2C6;6MaZh 4VWZQV^^Q 6QdPMcW^]Í&#x153; 6ZR\R]cMahÍ&#x153; E_RPWMZÍ&#x153; M]Q 4^\OW]RQ 6ZR\R]cMahΧE_RPWMZ 6QdPMcW^]Í&#x2030;

lewisu.edu/transfers (815) 836-5250

Scheduled On-Site 3+1 Advising Sessions: www.cod.edu/academics/transfer_ programs/3plus1_advising_sessions.aspx

6 // codcourier.org // 11 February 2015

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F E AT U R E S

Pop culture’s somber mood Events seem to be stuck in depressing rut JOASH MENCIAS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

What a difference a year makes in the world of the Grammy Awards.

We expected a spectacle: a roster of acts featuring suggestive choreography, elaborate stage sets, cacophonous performances and feel-good, disco-laden anthems.

Instead, we saw artists

backed by minimalist production, singing soulful songs and lamenting over the social crises of the day.

Katy Perry’s act followed an anti-sexual assault PSA from President Barack Obama. Beyonce, who declared she was “drunk in love” just last year, sang a humble gospel hymn.

Even Pharrell Williams turned his hit “Happy” into a melodramatic performance tinged with protest. Williams’ backup dancers raised their hands up while dressed in Trayvon Martin-inspired hoodies.

This year’s Grammy Awards ceremony was only an aberration in the universe of pop culture, right? Maybe not.

Earlier this month, we expected to be bombarded by images of objectified women, talking animals and laugh-out-loud Super Bowl advertisements.

Instead, we watched fathers lovingly raise up their children, charitable people making an impact in the world and a child who unfortunately could not escape a preventable death.

And during the Golden

Globe Awards in January, film and TV stars took the podium to deplore the Charlie Hebdo attack and Hollywood’s gender problem.

Yes, the biggest pop culture events of the year so far gave us plenty to tweet about, but not enough to smile about.

In the grand scheme of things, award shows do not affect the average college student or middle-class family.

But for many viewers, these televised occasions provide something to look forward to in the midst of

a cold winter. Watching glamorous celebrities walk down the red carpet or seeing share-worthy TV commercials help us escape our everyday worries.

So when current events intertwine with pop culture events, we are painfully reminded of disheartening issues at home and abroad.

This year’s award shows that were supposed to joyously celebrate the artistic achievements of the past year could not evade the troubles pervading 2014, as we have seen so far. The collective somber mood of

the nation has spilled over on the industry meant to entertain us.

Unfortunately, I see the sadness trend continuing as the Oscars close off the awards season this month.

But it’s going to change sooner rather than later.

Our national news cycle will soon fixate on Bruce Jenner and the 2016 presidential race. And so maybe by next year, our awards shows will forget about the troubles of 2014. The tide is already turning.

Email: editor@cod.edu Twitter: @joashmencias

“When current events intertwine with pop culture events, we are painfully reminded of disheartening issues at home and abroad.”

NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE Recognized nationally as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report.

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North Central College offers: s More than 55 majors s Excellent location for internships and jobs s Great support for COD students s Academic scholarships and needbased grants

NORTH CENTRAL COLLEGE WILL BE AT COLLEGE OF DUPAGE ON: February 19, 10 -1 February 25 10-1 March 5, 10-1 March 11, 10-1 These visits are located on the second floor of the SRC near Campus Central.

s Smooth transfer of credit s Exciting study abroad opportunities To learn more about how you, too, can be central, call us to set up an individual appointment at 630-637-5800 or visit us at northcentralcollege.edu/transfer.

s NCAA Division III athletics 11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 7

F E AT U R E S

MAC Spring Preview

KELLY WYNNE FEATURES EDITOR

EVENTS Feb. 14- The Second City Anniversary Show This comedy show may be the perfect escape for you and your Valentine to enjoy a night out, filled with endless laughs. The group will be performing some of its most memorable skits, as well as adding new material. Take the opportunity to see some Chicago comedy a little bit closer to home.

Feb. 18- Global Flicks: “Wasteland”

March 13- Mike Birbiglia: Thank God For Jokes

Take a look inside the life of an artist, scrounging through the world’s largest garbage dump to find inspiration. The film follows Vik Muniz as he strives to transform the world and individuals through his work. This Sundance Film Festival award-winner will be screened at both 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Look for updates on other screenings in the Global Flicks series throughout the season.

Birbiglia is an author, comedian, and filmmaker, known for his comedic twist on real-life experiences. In his shows, Birbiglia takes the audience inside cringe-worthy embarrassing events, filled with one-liners sure to invoke endless laughter.

Apr. 10- Hotel California- A Salute to the Eagles The cover group will take the MAC stage in order to bring classic rock fans back to the prime of the Eagles.

The band has been performing the cover set for over two decades, and to this day, is the only band authorized by the Eagles to perform their classic songs.

Apr. 14- Daniel LevitinYour Brain On Music Lecture Series Levitin is a bestselling author and psychology professor with a passion for music. In his lecture, Levitin will dig deep into memory, technology and music, leaving the audience with a better understanding about how all are connected.

Apr. 25- Cirque Zuma Zuma The worldwide cirque phenomena will take the MAC stage with a show sure to shock the audience. The show will include a mix of magic as well as typical cirque acts such as aerial and pole performances, Egyptian limbo dancers, and South African gumboot dancers.

LEARNING COMMONS One-Stop Academic Support Center

A variety of academic support services are available for all College of DuPage students in one convenient location.

These services include drop-in and appointment-based assistance for: • Tutoring for online, classroom and hybrid courses • Help with Blackboard, myACCESS, and the Student Portal • COMPASS Placement Text preparation

Drop-in assistance in: • Math

• Reading

• Writing

• Speech

COMPASS Placement Test Preparation

Stop in our office or visit the Learning Commons website to find out about workshops, MyMathTest, and many other resources to help students prepare for their placement tests.

Online Assistance for Writing

For login information: cod.mywconline.com

“Ask a Peer Tutor” by email at bb.cod.edu Where to Find Us

The Learning Commons is located on the south side of the second floor in the Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 2102.

(630) 942-3941 | cod.edu/learningcommons

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F E AT U R E S

ASHLEE BERNER DESIGN EDITOR

> < POINT COUNTER POINT

”A day to celebrate your love for anyone” Valentine’s Day is coming up and that means candy, chocolate, flowers and presents. But that is not the case for everyone.

On social media, I’ve started to see the negative comments about this holiday and I can’t help but wonder why? People who are not in relationships commonly make these comments and I am here to tell you it is not that big a deal.

This will be my fourth Valentine’s Day with my boyfriend. Our first Valentine’s Day was fun because it was my first one with a guy, but since then it really isn’t that exciting anymore. We don’t need a day like Valentine’s Day to treat each other special and blow money on an expensive dinner or gifts.

We don’t have that type of money to do that anyway being in college.

Since we don’t make a big deal about it, this Valentine’s Day we will watch

a movie and order food like we do all the time, after going to work.

I’m not saying that Valentine’s Day is dumb, but I just wish there wasn’t so much hype about it. It is fun, but it eventually gets old. For those who are reading this and are not in a relationship, know that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to revolve around the fact if you have a significant other or not. There are people all around you like friends and family who love you. I know that sounds cheesy, but Valentine’s Day can be a day to celebrate your love and appreciation for anyone, not just a significant other.

If you are in fact one of those people that has been saying they hate Valentine’s Day and you have no one to celebrate with, it really isn’t a big deal.

The only reason I like it is because of all the chocolate everywhere. Other than that, it is just another day.

Email: graphics@cod.edu Twitter: @doubleEE14

KELLY WYNNE FEATURES EDITOR “I’m the love of my life”

VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY: I T ’ S NOT ALL THE HYPE

Don’t get me wrong; I absolutely love Valentine’s Day. Sure, it’s a major Hallmark holiday, but it’s all about being kind and loving one another, and that’s what I’m about.

This year I’m considering myself to be my valentine.

To anyone that read that and pitied me, just hear me out.

I’m not one to get caught up on heartbreak. That’s not the problem here. The problem is that college is a land of uncertainty. There’s transferring and there’s distance, and your entire world can change with the snap of your fingers.

It’s kind of an awesome thing for someone like me who loves change. Yeah, that could be part of the problem too.

Let’s face it. Relationships are hard. Especially when you know your life is about to branch out into one of 50 directions. I love the idea of commitment and I cherish loyalty, but I feel it’s important for me

to stand on my own two feet, especially at a time when I have my future in the palm of my hand.

At this point, I have no clue where I’ll be in 5 years. I can’t even say I know where I’ll be in one.

Right now, I’m the love of my life. This time is dedicated to me, and to shaping myself into an even more awesome version of who I already am.

My heart isn’t guarded, and I’m open to possibilities, but I will always be my own before I am anyone else’s.

So fellow students, single or not, stop buying into the conventional Valentine’s Day. Take this day dedicated to love and make it all about you. Whether it’s thinking about how you want to change the world, or single-handedly downing an entire box of Fannie May chocolates, do something nice for yourself. I promise you won’t regret it.

Email: features@cod.edu Twitter: @kellywynne23

11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 9

OPINION

Underutilized access codes not worth the price Once upon a time, a textbook was a textbook.

No gimmicks, no fancy add-ons, just pages of chapters bound together.

Somehow, it just isn’t that simple anymore.

In a time when technology is so prevalent, it may be hard to believe that students are up in arms over the incorporation of online learning in their classes.

However, the use of online amenities integrated in a classroom setting is proving to be less than beneficial the majority of the time.

More than ever, classes at College of DuPage require the purchase of online access codes in addition to the necessary text. Sounds helpful, right?

Well, in theory, they can be. These sites typically correlate with the class readings and offer study materials and homework questions. These aren’t merely online textbooks, but rather access to additional learning to benefit students in the related class. The catch is that while these sites open the doors to a variety of study options, the few numbers of an access code aren’t really worth their expensive price tag.

Access codes can usually cost somewhere between

$100 and $150. In addition to the cost of the actual class, the textbook, and any other required material, access codes can add up to

the sites’ features are used sparingly at most, at least in our student experience.

Two or three assignments may be posted by the

ing technology into and outside of the classroom ends, it’s pretty obvious that it isn’t furthering our learning any better than a

who struggle with a course could actually benefit from the extra learning outside of class, the majority of students don’t bother using

SCREENSHOT OF AN ACCESS CODE WEBSITE

a small fortune, but that’s not even the worst of it.

To make matters more frustrating, besides the exorbitant price of an access code, in most classes,

THE

COURIER EDITORIAL BOARD

EDITOR IN CHIEF Joash Mencias OPINION EDITOR Maggie Curran DESIGN EDITOR Ashlee Berner

10 // codcourier.org // 11 February 2015

instructor, or possibly a few quizzes, but other than that, the access codes often go virtually unused for the entire semester.

After the thrill of bring-

classic textbook and a simple lecture presentation. If anything, it’s high price tag brings with it a resentment toward online studying.

While some students

the sites simply because they have no need for them. Therefore, it would make more sense to make the purchasing of access codes optional, or even get

rid of them altogether. This concept would be the best solution to the problem.

In an ideal world, one of the aforementioned options would be implemented. However, there hasn’t been a time in history when a technological advancement was later removed, and in all likelihood, it won’t happen now either. This leaves truly only one option: if access codes are here to stay, students might as well get some use out of them.

We’re not saying that anyone comes to college expecting to drop only a few bucks — it’s a huge lifetime investment. What we are saying is that no one should have to pay more than is absolutely necessary for an already expensive class, especially when the product isn’t benefiting their education.

And so, to professors that require the purchase of access codes: if you’re going make students pay through the nose, at least make it worth their time and money. Utilize the applications available and post information and assignments online. Otherwise, students are paying for nothing but disappointment.

Views expressed in The Courier represent opinions of majority of editorial board. The Courier encourages all students, faculty, staff, administrators and community members to voice their opinions on all the topics concerning them both in and out of school.

Writers can express their views in a “Letter to the Editor”.” All correspondence and letters for publication must be typed and signed with the author’s contact information and full name.

Letters can be sent via e-mail to editor@cod.edu. The subject heading to the message must read “Letter to the Editor.” The writer’s first and last names, major (if student) or occupation title, street address, city, state and complete phone number with area code must be included for identity verification by the Courier. Deadline for letters meant for publication is noon on Fridays. Letters are subject to editing for grammar, style, language, length and libel. All letters represent the views of the author, not the editorial board.

Courier TV Watch news videos about COD, student life, athletes and more. Coming Thursday, Feb. 12 at codcourier.org.

11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 11

SPORTS CHAPARRAL SCHEDULE

COLUMN | BLACK HISTORY MONTH

An unknown heavyweight JAMES KAY SPORTS EDITOR

Check out the upcoming Chaparral athletic games in February:

Women’s Basketball Feb. 4 v. Madison 46-89 L Men’s Basketball Feb. 4 v. Madison 83-78 W (OT) Women’s Basketball Feb. 7 v. Joliet 41-69 L Men’s Basketball Feb. 7 v. Joliet 94-71 W Track & Field 5:00 p.m., Feb. 13 at Naperville Central College Track & Field 11:00 a.m., Feb. 14 at Naperville Central College Women’s Basketball 5:00 p.m., Feb. 18 v. Rock Valley Men’s Basketball 7:00 p.m., Feb. 18 v. Rock Valley

12 // codcourier.org // 11 February 2015

PROVIDED BY BOXREC.COM

During Black History Month it is important to appreciate the athletes who risked their lives and careers to give the opportunity of participating in professional sports to future generations. The first names that come to mind for when we think about civil rights athletes are Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali and Jesse Owens, all of whom take most of the credit for overcoming racism and prejudice within their respective sports.

There are many athletes who have gone unnoticed however and remain in the shadows of these other icons. For the remainder of Black History Month, I am going to profile the athletes who have been forgotten in their fight against oppression.

Ever since he was born into poverty in Galveston, Texas, Jack Johnson was fighting for his life.

Johnson came from a family that couldn’t afford to keep all their children in school and was forced to work to help support his family. It was until Johnson was 16 years old when he decided to take

up boxing as a profession.

Johnson had the physical makeup to be a successful boxer as he stood at 6’2” and had a reach that was 6 inches longer than his height. To go along with his God-given ability to dodge opponent’s punches, he was a cocky individual who wasn’t afraid to take on any fighter even if they were more experienced than he was.

After becoming a household name in the underground boxing industry, Johnson wanted to compete for the heavyweight championship. There was one problem though. Some white professional boxers refused to fight him since he was African-American.

Johnson was out to make a name for himself though and took any fight that was offered to him. In 1901 in Galveston, Johnson got his chance to fight white heavyweight boxer, Joe Choynski. Choynski was able to knock out Johnson in the third round. Controversy arouse, however, when both fighters were arrested since prizefighting was illegal in Texas at the time. They spent 23 days in prison together and Choynski gave Johnson tips on how to approach his future matchups.

According to Ken Burn’s documentary “Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson,” Johnson says Choynski taught him how to fight during their time together in jail.

When he got out of jail, Johnson won the World Colored Heavyweight Championship in 1903, but for him it wasn’t

enough. For years, Johnson had sought out heavyweight champion, Jim Jeffries, to fight him but Jefferies refused. Johnson got his chance at the title when Jeffries retired in 1905 which meant that Tommy Burns was the new heavyweight champion. Johnson stalked Burns and went to every fight that Burns fought in. Johnson relentlessly heckled Burns for not accepting his challenge. He would give quotes to the media calling out Burns which tampered Burns’ reputation for years.

In 1908, Burns finally caved in to Johnson’s antics and agreed to fight him in Sydney, Australia.

Johnson’s strategy against his opponents was to wear them down to the point where he would only be defensive early on in his fights. Johnson used this to his advantage, as he was able to knockout Burns in the fourteenth round.

Once the news got out that an African-American boxer was the heavyweight champion, people pleaded with former champion Jefferies, to come out of retirement to take on Johnson. Jefferies was often called, “The Big White Hope” and was seen as the only fighter who could defeat Johnson. He agreed to come out of retirement for one last match in 1910 and at the time news publications were calling it the “Fight of the Century.”

As racial tensions grew across the country, there was a concern over what would transpire if Johnson indeed, defeated Jefferies.

Everyone who attended the fight was inspected for

firearms and alcohol was permitted from the event.

The match took place on July 4, 1910 with Jefferies being the favorite to win, with 10-7 odds in his favor.

This didn’t faze Johnson as he was able to knockdown Jefferies twice which was a first for Jefferies in his career. The fight ended with Jefferies resigning from the match in the fifteenth round, which validated Johnson’s title as a champion.

This was more than a championship for Johnson; it was symbol of hope for the black community across the country. Johnson was a heroic figure that was able to battle against all the racist naysayers who claimed African-Americans couldn’t make it in professional sports. He not only got by; he thrived in harsh situations. He was an inspiration to African-Americans as he was able to show the world that African-Americans can be apart of the white dominated world.

Johnson’s reputation was slowly ruined when he was arrested multiple times after his boxing career and served a year in prison.

Many believe that he was set up by white rioters and was wrongly accused of violating the Mann Act. When the story got out that he was in prison, people began to turn on him and his legacy became mangled. Despite his criminal record, Johnson should be remembered for what he did in and out of the ring and should be commemorated for his efforts in the early 1900s.

Email: sports@cod.edu

SPORTS

Lady Chaps must meet academic standards BEN GROTE SPORTS REPORTER

All across the nation, thousands of students sign up at their schools to participate in athletics. Some students join for the thrill and overall enjoyment of their sport, others join for the hope of receiving a scholarship and many join for mixed reasons. However, one principle that is absolute for all student athletes is that all students enrolled in community college must adhere to the national guidelines to be eligible to play a sport.

College of DuPage is of course no different than any other community college, and its athletes must follow the Illinois Junior College Athletic Association guidelines. According

to the guidelines, a student athlete must earn a 1.75 GPA their first year of college, and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours. During their second year of college, they must have completed 24 credit hours, and have a GPA of a 2.0 or above. Despite these standards not being set especially high, there are some students who fail to meet these standards, thus making them ineligible to play.

During this year’s basketball season, two student athletes on COD’s women’s team were not able to play due to not meeting the eligibility standards, according to COD’s softball and women’s basket-

ball coach Ryan Connell.

“Losing players is one thing,” Connell said.

“However, grades are far more important than athletics, and I want our students to know that.”

In order to help students meet this requirement and to excel above it, Connell has created a plan that helps his student athletes keep playing throughout the entire season.

“While it makes a large impact on the overall playing of the team, it’s vital to make sure our student-athletes meet these required standards.”

According to Connell, members of the softball team have an average GPA of 3.2.

“We have a lot of members on the softball team working together not only during practice, but there is a fair amount of peer-tutoring that goes on to help each other out,” Connell said. “This helps a lot and it’s nice to see students taking the initiative to do well in school.”

Connell believes that it’s essential to be able to market his athletes to fouryear schools for scholarships, and he knows that grades are a huge part of the process when it comes to earning a scholarship.

Connell has been coaching COD’s softball team for 8 years, and this is his first year as COD’s women’s head coach.

LUCAS KOPROWSKI/COURIER

Connell emphasized a message for anyone interested in joining any form of athletics programs at their school.

“Athletics are really just a bonus for students,” Connell said. “Everyone needs to remember that school comes before sports,

and many students simply don’t realize this. Not only are athletes that don’t meet eligibility standards let themselves down, but they’re really letting the whole team down together.”

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11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 13

COFFEE BREAK

5 TIPS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY Make your Valentine’s Day one to remember with these tips.

ASHLEE BERNER DESIGN EDITOR

1 Making Memories

If this is your first Valentine’s Day with someone, make it a night to remember. First experiences with your significant other are important. Don’t put it off and put some thought into it, girls and guys. This holiday isn’t just for the ladies. Girls, make sure you put some thought into the night too. Pick somewhere where you both want to eat that is within budget. If you aren’t in a relationship, go out with a sibling or one of your close friends.

This day isn’t just for couples. Regardless with whom it’s with, go out with someone you love and have a nice time. It’s a day to celebrate love.

2 Gift Giving

Gifts. This is something to discuss with your significant other: are you going to get gifts for each other? And yes, I said each other. Ladies, you can get your man something too. I know this year my boyfriend and I will not be exchanging gifts. We want to save some money and we don’t really need anything.

But it is a conversation worth having. You don’t want to be the one that buys your significant other something expensive and they get you nothing.

3 Make the Presents

If you want to get your significant other a gift but don’t want to spend the money, make the presents.

I did this last year and I got the idea from an episode of “Friends.” Making the presents costs less and it means a lot more. It says you took the time to make something, and it gives you a chance to make it personal to your relationship. If you are having a hard time thinking of something on your own, go on Pinterest. You would be amazed at the ideas you can find for homemade gifts.

4 Reservations

If you will be going out to eat this Valentine’s Day, depending where you go it is necessary to make a reservation. Fancy and romantic restaurants will be so busy, and showing up that night at 6 p.m. is not going to an option. To avoid a long wait and starvation, make a reservation ahead of time. Some places this close to Valentine’s Day may be booked, but it is worth a shot. If you do make a reservation somewhere, make sure you show up on time. Certain places may give up your spot if you show up too late because they are that busy.

5 Get up & go out

If you are someone who isn’t into Valentine’s Day don’t, just sit around at home looking at pictures on social media of other couples that are out doing something wishing it were you. Make plans with your friends to go out or stay in.

Sitting at home by yourself won’t do anything, so don’t be a sulk. No matter if you are single or in a relationship, Valentine’s Day can be fun but it all depends on your attitude towards it. If you have a crappy Valentine’s Day, it’s your fault. Make things happen and go celebrate.

Email: graphics@cod.edu Twitter: @doubleEE14

COMICS

Taylor Jones, Politicalcartoons.com

14 // codcourier.org // 11 February 2015

Pat Bagley, Salt Lake Tribune

COFFEE BREAK

PUZZLES AND MORE COURIER STAFF PICKS

Pick-Up Lines

“I wanna live in your socks so I can be with you every step of the way.”

The Courier’s editors and reporters pick their favorite pick-up lines in time for Valentine’s Day.

Vote for your favorite pick-up line. Visit codcourier. org.

“On a scale of one to America... how free are you this weekend?”

Lucas Koprowski

SPORTS REPORTER

James Kay

PHOTO EDITOR

SPORTS EDITOR

SUDOKU Medium

7 8 9 1

8 9 6 7 2 4 5 2 3 3 4

4

3 8 6

Previous solution - Tough

1

7 4 8

3

9 9

4 6

7

You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

1 2

7 5 8 4 6 6 5 3 4 1 2 2 3

2 3 7 5 4 8 9 6 1

3 4 9 2 5 6 4 4 1 2 2 3 7 8 3 6 9 7 8 7 5 6 5 8 7 6 4 5

No. 216

Medium

5

3 6

2 1

7 8

9 8

4

3

How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to The solutions will be published here in the next issue. see how ‘straights’ are formed.

3 1

2

2

5

4 9 1 7 5 3 8 6 2

9 7

1

Previous solution - Easy

9

5

8

7

3

© 2011 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

No. 216

9

“Are you from Tennessee? Because you’re the only ‘10’ I see.”

“Are you, uh, interested in pizza?”

-Bobby Hill

Ben Grote

STR8TS

3

NEWS EDITOR

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

OPINION EDITOR

2 5

Taira Alabi

FEATURES EDITOR

Joash Mencias

Maggie Curran

5 4

Kelly Wynne

DESIGN EDITOR

“You’re hot. Give me your number.”

“If you were a fruit, you’d be a FINEapple”

“Did you read Dr. Seuss as a kid?

Because green eggs and damn!”

Ashlee Berner

COURTESY OF PIXABAY

“I’m not a photographer, but I can picture me and you together.”

8 7 5 6 2 4 1 9 3

6 3 2 9 1 8 7 4 5

5 8 9 3 7 1 4 2 6

1 6 3 4 8 2 9 5 7

2 4 7 5 9 6 3 1 8

9 5 4 2 3 7 6 8 1

7 1 6 8 4 5 2 3 9

3 2 8 1 6 9 5 7 4

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org If you like Str8ts check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store.

To run a classified ad, call 630.942.3379 email paytonc359@cod.edu.

Ads must be prepaid.

CLASSIFIEDS JOBS

JOBS

ADVERTISE

COD students earn $9.30 per hour tutoring fellow students. Stop by the Learning Commons, SRC 2102, for application information or call 630.942.3686 or email tutoring@cod.edu.

Interested in sales or advertising? The Courier is looking for a part time advertising assistant to call upon local businesses. Contact Christina if you are intereste at paytonc359@cod.edu

Print your classified ad for $12.50 a week for 25 words or less. If you are a COD student, staff, or faculty member, you may run a FREE classified ad on our website, using your college email address.

ON CAMPUS

11 February 2015 // codcourier.org // 15