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Volume #104 | Issue #7 | Oct. 28, 2019 | depauliaonline.com
Strus on the loose
Federal probe raises questions about Board of Trustees protocols By Bianca Cseke Online Managing Editor
visit we played a game together and we got the chance to talk a little bit … Max and Eli [Cain] were my like my big brothers.” Strus’ journey from an under-recruited Division II player to a Big East conference star to now being on an NBA payroll
As Anne Pramaggiore, a member of DePaul’s Board of Trustees, remains involved in a far-reaching federal investigation into political corruption in Illinois, it remains unclear what exactly it would take for a trustee to be removed. Pramaggiore, who has been a trustee since 2010, left her position as CEO of Exelon days after the company was subpoenaed for all communications with State Sen. Martin Sandoval, who has been under federal investigation since September. As CEO of Exelon, which owns multiple utility firms such as ComEd and provides electrical equipment for all of northwestern Illinois, Pramaggiore was – and is still – involved with several boards, including the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and the Art Institute. Pramaggiore is also heavily involved in giving political contributions, both directly from herself and through ComEd-Exelon’s political action committee (PAC). During the 2019 Chicago mayoral election, she donated to nearly every candidate – runoff candidates Lori Lightfoot and Toni Preckwinkle both received $5,000 – and she gave between $211.54 and $322.92 every two weeks to ComEd’s PAC between October 2012 and September 2019, according to Illinois Sunshine. For DePaul to want someone with as much civic involvement as Pramaggiore to be on its Board of Trustees makes sense, said Dave McKinney, a state politics reporter at WBEZ. How the trustees operate, are selected or removed and what happens at their meetings are unclear to the general public. Meeting minutes and bylaws are not available anywhere on the university’s website – including in its policy directory, which can only be accessed with a Campus Connect username and password. The Special Collections office in the John T. Richardson Library on the Lincoln Park campus holds all of these documents, including the original set of bylaws from 1946. However, any records less than 25 years old can only be obtained with written permission from the university’s Office of the Secretary. The secretary’s office did not respond to The DePaulia’s inquiry about trustee bylaws. However, according to the
See STRUS, page 26
See TRUSTEES, page 6
ALEXA SANDLER | THE DEPAULIA
Former DePaul men’s basketball forward Max Strus on the floor at Wintrust Arena during a conference match up against St. John’s on March 3.
Former men’s basketball star lands two-way contract with Bulls By Shane René Editor-in-Chief
A native of Chicago’s south suburbs, Max Strus only played for two seasons at DePaul, spending his first chained to the bench by NCAA regulations after transferring from Division II Lewis University. But in just two short years, Strus laid the foundation to become one of the program’s most compelling success stories in recent memory. Just days after signing a partially guaranteed contract with the Boston Celtics, the team waived Strus back onto the open market where he wasted no time putting ink to paper on a two-way contract with his hometown Chicago Bulls on Oct. 22, where he will see playing time in both the G-League and the NBA. “I think everybody at DePaul, and I think around Chicagoland, especially the south suburbs where he grew up, is probably really excited about the fact that he’s coming home,” Athletics Director Jean Lenti Ponsetto said. “It’s exciting for his family and his high school friends and certainly all of his DePaul fans and friends for him to be playing for either the Windy City Bulls or the Bulls, and to be able to continue to watch him play is terrific for everybody and especially for him to have that
support system around him too.” Over the past two DePaul men’s basketball campaigns, Strus was a key figure in the Blue Demons return to relevance in college basketball — the team’s “Superman,” as sophomore point guard Devin Gage put it after Strus poured in a thencareer-high 34 points against UIC last December. Playing for a program which has failed to cultivate much national attention in recent years, Strus’ hometown story fills a vacuum of DePaul men’s basketball players to make the jump to the game’s highest level directly out of college. Establishing a bridge between a college program and the NBA is a major selling point for the elite talent that drives the success of any NCAA program. Because Strus made a name for himself across the nation with highlight reel dunks and what, at times, seemed like weekly 30-point performances (he joins Mark Aguirre, George Mikan and Tom Kleinschmidt as the only DePaul players with five or more 30-point games) the DePaul brand started to reach a much broader audience. A broader audience means better recruits — recruits like DePaul’s highly touted incoming freshman forward Romeo Weems. “When I would come up for a visit I always see Max in the gym, getting shots up, rarely missing,” Weems said. “On my
PHOTO COURTESY OF EXELON
Max Strus hugs Head Coach Dave Leitao.
2 | News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
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News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 3
Connecting past and present Professor preserves archaeological artifacts from Egypt By Aaron Somo Contributing Writer
DePaul does not harbor an especially large history department, let alone a department specifically dedicated to archaeology. As a result, a DePaul student might be surprised to hear that one of their own professors received a $75,000 grant for an archaeological preservation project. However, those who know Professor Scott Bucking were anything but surprised. “He is irrepressible,” said longtime colleague and Associate Dean Margaret Storey. “He is deeply committed to his field, creative, determined, and he has a passion for what he does,” she continued. Bucking applied for the grant to preserve a group of archaeological remains in Beni Hassan, a mountainous region of Egypt that sits along the Nile River Valley. He has been working on the site for a decade now and has already experienced historical sites like the Tomb of Hatshepsut, a famous female Pharaoh of ancient Egypt. With this grant, Bucking and his team will be able to perform the first comprehensive recordings of ancient hermitages carved directly into the mountains. “Grant writing is a pretty regular thing in my profession, since you always have to be looking to the next field season and figuring out how it’s going to be supported,” Bucking said. He said that there are times where much larger grants are awarded, but that the norm is a yearly cycle of smaller grants that consists of a field season and a grant application season. The passion for his field that Storey mentioned has paid off for Bucking over the years, as he has been awarded upwards of 25 grants supporting his work. Applying for grants is essential to funding his work, but his passion lies out in the field and in sharing his findings with others. “The most fulfilling part is working with my team in the field and seeing the impact of our work on the community in Middle Egypt,” said Bucking. That commitment to the local community demonstrated through addressing a range of issues in the area, such as undocumented digging, where nonprofessionals attempt to excavate the ancient sites for valuables. This badly damages the artifacts and hinders the preservation process, if not completely deterring it. Another prominent issue Bucking is trying to address in tandem with the local community is agricultural encroachment. Due to increasing food needs, farmers are expanding their fields up the slope of some of the mountains, compromising the tombs in the area. “This is addressing an economic need that that community has,” he said. “But we as archaeologists want to preserve the stuff too.” Bucking’s commitment to balancing the community’s needs with the preservation of the region’s history demonstrates a social awareness that is not typical in archaeology. This is especially true in an area like Beni Hassan, which harbors more than 3,000 years of history in its landscape.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BUCKING/BENI HASSAN SOUTH PRESERVATION PROJECT
Professor Scott Bucking is pictured surveying the Beni Hassan preservation site in 2018.
“This is addressing an economic need that that community has, but we as archaeologists want to preserve the stuff too.”
Scott Bucking
Associate professor and director of the history graduate program Bucking acknowledged that there is a long history of historians going into communities and taking what they wanted because they believed they knew better. This results in decontextualized history, which is where artifacts are shown without any real understanding of the people who created them. This is a significant reason why Bucking strongly emphasizes training the next generation of historians, specifically archaeologists, by pulling from communities local to the sites being worked on. “I have a largely Egyptian team and that is largely by design,” he said. “I think that our commitment should be there.” Bucking does not want his work to be about going to these sites and bringing artifacts and exotic stories back to the U.S. Instead, his focus lies on building up Egyptian communities and better preparing them to preserve the history of the area. Bucking’s passion reaches areas far away from the field, including to the students he has taught at DePaul. Chandler Whitney, a former student of his Honors 102 course on ancient Egypt, said that her interest in Egypt and archaeology grew significantly thanks to his teaching. “I always looked forward to going to Professor Bucking’s class,” she said. “His stories are absolutely fantastic, and it was so neat being able to see pictures from the archaeological sites he’s worked on.” Whitney added that she often recommends his courses to fellow students as well. It is often said that passion is infectious, and Bucking inspires many of those around him. Through his drive for both discovery and dispersing
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT BUCKING/BENI HASSAN SOUTH PRESERVATION PROJECT
From left to right: Alla Fathy, Hamdy Rushdy Hamdy and Scott Bucking were members of the project’s team. They are photographed in front of Cave Hermitage, a part of their project site. knowledge, obtaining grants is just a means to perform much more meaningful work: connecting the people of today. “Our goal is to get at those past
people, but we also want to connect that heritage to the living communities that are there,” he said.
4 | News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
DeRogatis on criticism, R. Kelly By Brian Pearlman Nation & World Editor
Jim DeRogatis says there are at least 48 women he knows of whose lives were ruined by R&B superstar R. Kelly, and he believes the true number of Kelly’s alleged victims is likely at least twice that number. The former Sun-Times music critic and “Sound Opinions” co-host, spoke last Tuesday with the DePaul Journalism Center for Integrity and Excellence’s director, Carol Marin, about his more than two decades of reporting on the Chicago-born music artist, a story he also recounts in his new book, “Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly,” released in June. Kelly was separately indicted by federal prosecutors in both Illinois and New York four months ago on a range of charges including child pornography and sexual exploitation of children. Prostitution charges were also filed against the singer in Minnesota. DeRogatis’ investigation into allegations that Kelly repeatedly preyed on underage African-American girls began in 2000 shortly after he reviewed Kelly’s fourth studio album “TP2.com.” He received a fax from an unknown individual with a warning: “Robert’s problem — and it’s a thing that goes back many years — is young girls.” The fax, which DeRogatis passed around for the audience to see at Tuesday’s event, led him and his reporting partner, Abdon Pallasch, through a maze of police and court records towards an eventual tally of hundreds of sources and dozens of women who said Kelly abused them. DeRogatis, whose first story with Pallasch about the allegations was published in December 2000, expressed frustration that the allegations against Kelly were not taken seriously by the music industry or mainstream media until recently. “I would have danced with joy for seeing one other journalist break a scoop on this story — I really would. I would not have felt depressed and downtrodden.” The journalist graduated from NYU in 1989 and began his career as a beat and investigative reporter for the Jersey Journal, where he wrote about crime, city politics and inhumane conditions at Hudson County Jail. The latter, which culminated in violent riots in which an inmate was shot and killed by a prison guard, also began
By Emma Oxnevad Opinion Editor
JONATHAN AGUILAR | THE DEPAULIA
Jim DeRogatis spoke with Carol Marin, director of the Center for Journalism Integrity & Excellence last week about his book “Soulless: The Case Against R. Kelly.” with an anonymous fax. A longtime student of alternative weeklies and writers like Joan Didion and Tom Wolfe, the critic with investigative roots eventually landed a job at the Sun-Times, only to leave after three years for a shortlived stint at Rolling Stone Magazine. He rejoined the paper in 1997 and was a music critic there until 2010. On the link between journalism and art criticism, DeRogatis said both rely on truth, though journalism requires fairness, which he defined as “bending over quintuple backwards to include the other side.” “Journalistic ethics required us to be fair, scrupulously so, at every corner, and I don’t think I ever was unfair,” DeRogatis said of his reporting on Kelly. “I also think, as a human being, I believe this man has ruined countless lives and was a monster. I have seen the scars on women’s wrists. I have seen the hospital reports where they took a bottle of pills. I have read the police report of the woman who drove into oncoming traffic on Michigan Ave. “We are not talking fun and games. We are talking 15-year-old women, who after sexual contact with this man, tried to kill themselves. And when you say their lives are ruined, that is not hyperbole.” Marin said the most heartbreaking moment in DeRogatis’ book for her was when Tiffany Hawkins, an aspiring singer who
met Kelly at Kenwood Academy when she was a 14-year-old freshman, tells the author she can no longer find pleasure in any music. DeRogatis rolled up his sleeves to reveal arms covered in colorful, winding tattoos. “These,” he said, motioning towards them, “are about records that formed me. Records that — in some cases I interviewed these people, they formed my life.” He said music is a force for good, citing the example of singer Mavis Staples marching with civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., singing even as fire hoses and dogs were turned on them. “I’m not saying the singing changed the world. I’m saying the singing powered us to try to change the world. I believe in that kind of music.” Raising a copy of his book, he added, “This is about, if music has that kind of power, is there a flip side that it can be the ultimate tool to corrupt and pervert.” As for criticism of both his book and reporting on Kelly, DeRogatis said bring it on. “I would relish at this moment an inmy-face interview with someone who has 50 significant problems with that book,” he said. “I would relish that discussion.” “Because?” Marin asked. “Because: Bring it,” he said. “I can defend everything. I’m not going to take that personally.”
CIEE gives out more than 100 free passports By Luke Murphy Contributing Writer
More than 100 DePaul students received free passports as part of an event held by the CIEE Passport Caravan on Friday afternoon in room 325 of the Lincoln Park campus Student Center. Originally offered to students in the Daily Newsline email, the event was held in an effort to increase the accessibility of study abroad programs for DePaul students. “We’re co-sponsoring the passport care event with CIEE – which is the Council of Educational Exchange – and the goal was basically to break down one more barrier for students to be able to afford to go abroad,” said Katie Saur, an associate director for advising and marketing who ran the event. “It’s part of what’s called generation study abroad, where they’re trying to double the number of students who are studying abroad. So it’s all under that initiative. We figured at DePaul, we know we have a lot of students who have demonstrated financial need, we have a very diverse student body, so basically covering the cost of a passport was one less barrier for them to be able to go abroad, so that was kind of the goal for the event.
Textured hair products to be sold on campus
“For students studying abroad, not only are they fulfilling academic requirements towards their degree but it is an opportunity to expand their world view and to really have that cross cultural experience where they’re kind of put in the shoes of an international student here in the U.S., getting to know another culture, and learning to adapt and be flexible and be patient,” Saur continued. “In some cases, students are improving their foreign language skills, problem-solving skills, I mean a lot of life skills and also career-related skills that students can use then when they’re applying for jobs or applying for graduate school.” Four hours into the event, the response Saur and the rest of her team received was extremely positive. “Students have been really excited,” she said. “Some students are already going to be using their passport over winter break, and then other students are applying for programs that are running in the spring and later on. And so students have been really excited about the event because the passports usually cost $140, which is a lot for a student to cover, so they’ve been excited about getting a free passport.” For Cody Cwik, a sophomore business major, studying abroad is an attractive option that he hopes will increase his under-
standing of international business. “This will be my first time studying abroad,” Cwik said. “[The appeal] is just kind of getting out of the country. I have never been outside the country, so being able to do that in an academic environment and being able to see the world and how it relates to business, which I’m studying. I think it allows students to be able to see the world in a different light, see different cultures and how it relates to their academic programs. Like I said, I’m studying business, so being able to see business with a global perspective is, I think, very helpful.” Ryan Bold, a senior at DePaul, also got his first passport at 1 p.m. Friday afternoon. For the Palatine, Ill. native, he hopes a passport will lead to a trip to Japan or London. “I was looking on DePaul’s website for announcements and I happened to see it [the event] and I was one of the last ones to sign up,” Bold said. “I’ve always wanted to travel abroad somewhere. I haven’t had a chance to study abroad yet, so this is a cool way to do it. Sometimes a study abroad trip can help, as part of your education to learn a lot on a trip and it’ll give you another perspective.”
ETC, the mini-mart located in the Lincoln Park Student Center, will sell products designed for textured hair. The initiative was the result of a collaboration between Chartwells and DePaul’s Student Government Association. The initiative was spearheaded by Camila Mariana Barrientos and Nathan Gutierrez, the senator for Intercultural Awareness and executive vice president for Diversity and Equity, respectively. “The initiative was very collaborative,” Barrientos said. “Nathan Guitierrez was the one who initially sprung the idea and brought it to my attention. Landon Campbell, our vice president, then took part of the initiative into his hands, as well. Landon contacted Roots2Ends, a student organization on campus, and was in contact with Chartwells and ETC.” ETC sells products like shampoo and conditioner, but none specific to textured hair. “The initiative is just an extension of what we truly want to accomplish this year, more equity and diversity at DePaul,” Barrientos said. “Nathan made a simple observation, he noticed that these needs have been overlooked. To us, it seemed that no one has ever brought up, noticed or listened to the fact that ETC had no products serving black students on campus.” SGA released a survey titled “Black Hair Care” in order to gauge to what products were needed. “SGA came to me several weeks ago stating that some students were asking for additional, more diverse hair care products to be sold at ETC,” said Rick Moreci, director of Housing, Dining and Student Centers. “I asked them to do some research as to what products the students would like to see offered. They went back and did a poll and then came back to me with the top requested products from those students who were surveyed.” Chartwells collected the data from the survey and selected the most requested products to be carried in the store. “I was told that these products would be primarily for students who are black,” Moreci said. “ As a result of the poll that was taken, Chartwells will be carrying the top four requested products: Jamaican black castor oil, shea butter, shea moisture shampoo, shea moisture conditioner.” This is the latest initiative from SGA, which recently worked to have free menstrual products in campus bathrooms. “This is definitely set to be an extremely productive year for SGA,” said SGA president Gisselle Cervantes. “We have every position filled except for two, and we are working right now to fill those last two spots. Once we have everyone, we will have so many different student voices represented at the table, and I think that will make us stronger than ever.” Barrientos said the products will be released towards the end of the month. Moreci said they will be sold at a “competitive price.” “From what I know, this is the first time a student organization on campus has ever worked to accomplish an initiative like this,” Barrientos said. “We are very thankful that this initiative was passed so quickly and with such ease.”
Sleeping in solidarity
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 5
Students and Chicagoans alike will participate in event to fight homelessness
JONATHAN AGUILAR | THE DEPAULIA
To bring awareness to the homelessness issue across the world, Chicagoans will unite by sleeping on the Quad in affiliation with the World Sleep Out event on Dec. 7.
By Ebony Ellis Contributing Writer
In 2017, 86,324 people experienced housing insecurity in Chicago, according to the Chicago Coalition of the Homeless. World Homeless Day on Oct. 10, is a reminder that homelessness or housing insecurity is more than what it may look like. As a call to action, DePaul University will host the “Big Sleep Out,” a fundraising event founded by Josh Littlejohn and the Social Bite charity. On Dec. 7, students and individuals from all over Chicago will sleep in the quad in solidarity with those affected by housing insecurity. The event began in Edinburgh, Scotland to raise awareness for housing insecurity. According to its website, the campaign has raised over $10 million in two years to combat homelessness in Scotland. This year will be the first time that this event will take place around the world. Speakers will include a DePaul graduate living in the Lincoln Park community shelter and students served by the Depaul USA Dax houses. All of the funds raised will go to the organizations Depaul USA, which supports homeless communities in Chica-
go and nationally, and All Chicago, which aims to prevent and end homelessness in Chicago. Arun Zachariah, a DePaul senior studying accounting and a part of the DePaul Community Services Association, plans to participate in the “Big Sleep Out” event. He’s volunteered at homeless shelters, including “Deborah’s Place,” since his freshman year. “I feel like a lot of people have this stigma of like, you’re homeless, you’re beneath me,” he said. “Being homeless and experiencing homelessness are two different things.” According to Emily Edwards, the Chicago program coordinator of Depaul USA, about 50 students at DePaul are experiencing housing insecurity every quarter. It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact amount of students experiencing housing insecurity, Zachariah said. Due to negative stigmas, students, or anyone for that matter, may be reluctant to ask for help and resources. According to the Chicago Coalition of the Homeless, stigmas can foster a one-dimensional perception of homelessness, but homelessness doesn’t always equate to bad hygiene, old clothing or living in the streets. Many of Chicago’s homeless population
— 81 percent —must “double up,” or live in households with additional family member or non-relatives. “We also have this idea in America that we can work ourselves out of a tough situation and we won’t be homeless,” said Lydia Stazen, executive director of the Institute of Global Homelessness (IGH). “But in reality, it’s much more complex and goes beyond individual choice.” Despite good intentions, some feel that this event is not as productive as it seems. Many students wonder what will happen after the event. Quin Leí, a graduate student working towards a doctorate degree in clinical-community psychology at DePaul, has experience working with LGBTQ+ youth in a homeless shelter in Minneapolis. She believes that the event is set with good intentions, but it may lead to a continuation of negative stigmas surrounding housing instability. “This event trivializes the experience of homelessness by reducing it to just sleeping outside [and] unsheltered,” Leí said. “Homelessness is much more than just this one aspect.” This is concerning considering that those experiencing
“Being homeless and experiencing homelessness are two different things.”
Arun Zachariah
Senior and member of DePaul Community Services Association homelessness are three times more likely to go to the hospital, are more likely to experience theft and their lifespan is greatly reduced, Lei said. Besides participating in this event, there are many ways that students and faculty can bring awareness to housing insecurity. Molly Brown, an assistant professor in clinical community psychology, said a way for people to get involved is donating to organizations working directly with those who experience housing insecurity. Another way, she said, is engaging in dialogue to raise awareness of homelessness — emphasizing that it’s important to be mindful of the language used because it can help lessen stigmas. Besides volunteering and do-
nating, students are encouraged to work with organizations that focus on policies that intersect with housing instability. Stazen also emphasizes the importance of voting, especially in local elections. Despite questions surrounding the effectiveness and intentions of this event, the event will continue as planned. Registration for the “Big Sleep Out” is still available on their website. The “Big Sleep Out” reminds that larger issues like homelessness does not mean only participating in acts that only tackle small aspects of the bigger picture. “[Homelessness] is a political decision, it’s a policy failure,” Stazen said.
6| News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
CTU strike continues into third week
students with disabilities and general education are integrated in the same space. Fifty percent of the students were special education, Bradley said. This is illegal, but teachers couldn’t do anything about it. The new offer also stated that there would be a “moratorium on charter expansion,” meaning that there will be a temporary halt to the increase of charter schools. Brown said that this was already in their original contract, but many teachers agree that it should not be temporary. Elisabeth Morrsion, English teacher and the AP and IB coordinator at Kelly College Prep, agrees that the stop to the expansion of charter schools should be permanent and enforceable. Mansueto High School, a newly-founded charter school, was built in 2016 and has taken a toll on Kelly. Enrollment into new charter schools drained the population of public schools, and with low enrollment, there
is low funding. “We get a ton of charter school students back because they didn’t like the school, but we don’t get the money of the charter schools back,” Morrison said. CTU also demands that more teachers should be hired based on how many students there are. Some teachers will have four to five different prep periods due to low staffing. However, not many people are on board with the strike. Parents all over the city are upset that their students are missing class, and outsiders online have made comments such as, “The teachers are not thinking about the children.” Bradley and Brown both questioned what other ways can they make change. “Striking is a result of them not wanting to come to the table,” Bradley said. “If we weren’t on strike, students will not get what they need. The board is not taking us serious until we strike, goes to show that they don’t care.” Monica Ramos, the new assistant director in the Egan Office at DePaul, said that students who decide to pursue teaching as a career must be convinced that they are passionate about it. “One comes into education with a little hope with a lot of passion and sometimes with a romanticized view of what a teacher is and what a teacher can do.,” Ramos said. “We encounter the crude reality it can be very overwhelming, but one must be convinced that embracing education as a career will have its ups and downs.” Brown, alongside other Kelly teachers, goes to Kelly everyday to picket, as do former students who support the strike. “We’re good at looking at historical movements of people who stood against power, but we’re bad at looking at it when it’s happening in front of us,” Ramos said. “It’s a revolution.”
army of lobbyists to get its legislative goals, like rate increases, passed. In 2016, ComEd requested a $138 million rate increase “to cover actual costs and investment obligations of modernizing the grid.” Though former Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and the Democrats who ran the General Assembly agreed on little during that legislative session, they did eventually agree on the energy bill that included ComEd’s rate increases, according to the Chicago Tribune. That rate increase, and the lobbying activities the company employed to get it passed, may be what the utility giant is under investigation for. Authorities are looking at payments from Exelon’s consultants to some individual “seemingly circumvent lobbying disclosure rules,” and some of those lobbyists may have been paid for having done little actual work. The federal investigations are circling in on Democratic Speaker of the House Mike Madigan, widely regarded as the head of machine politics in Illinois. “There are questions around access [to politicians] and contributions,” said Jay Young, executive director of Common Cause Illinois, an organization that fights for fair and representative government. “It’s about politicians giving too much credence to those in power. It’s about who can influence policy in ways ordinary folks can’t.” Locke, Pramaggiore’s spokesperson, said her reasons for her retirement were in a press release from Exelon. However, the release focused on the new Exelon CEO, Calvin G. Butler. The only mention of Pramaggiore thanks her for her service and lists some of her accomplishments as CEO. Locke also said he could not speak to Pramaggiore’s reasons for her membership on DePaul’s
board. Because the minutes from the meeting in which Pramaggiore was elected to the Board of Trustees are not available to the public, most of the DePaul community doesn’t know the reasons she was chosen for the board, or how important those reasons would be in any possible consideration in regard to removing her. Young said DePaul would want trustees to bring connections to the table, so Pramaggiore’s connections from her positions on various boards and through her former CEO position would benefit the university. Donations may also be a factor. “In a lot of cases [why trustees are selected] comes down to giving capacity,” said Jack Stripling, a reporter for the Chronicle of Higher Education who covers leadership. “There’s no better way to cultivate a donation than to put a person in a position to shape college policy as a member of a board.” Scott Paeth, president of DePaul’s faculty council, said it’s typical for boards of trustees to govern themselves. “I don’t think the Board of Trustees at DePaul operates more obliquely than other boards of trustees,” he said. “They don’t tend to do everything out in the open.” Paeth said the faculty council has little interaction with the trustees, other than when it comes to academic affairs issues, such as curriculum and scholarships. Broadly speaking, Young said everyone should expect more of systems of government and elected representatives than the corruption that may have occurred. “I don’t know where this is going to go, but this should be a wake-up call to all of us,” Young said.
By Wendy Blanquel-Garcia Contributing Writer
Forty students in one class, 30 desks for all of them and only one teacher trying to teach and pay attention to each student. This has been a typical day for many overcrowded CPS classrooms during the past few years. Some schools only have a nurse for one day of the week, and only a few counselors and social workers to help a large number of students. Other schools cannot even afford a library. The Chicago Teachers Union took action on Oct. 16, when teachers and staff formed picket lines outside of schools to strike against the Board of Education and Mayor Lori Lightfoot for not meeting their demands. Now, over a week later, they are still on strike, beating their record from their last strike in 2012. A comprehensive offer was released last Friday, Oct. 18, but no agreement has been reached. At Thomas Kelly College Prep, teachers and staff form every morning with tables of food, music and some teachers with instruments playing for the cars and people who pass by in the mornings. Carolyn Brown, the lead CTU delegate for Kelly and a teacher, said that the offer from Friday did not show interest in truly negotiating because it does not pay attention to the CTU’s demands. “We want to talk about conditions, not just salary,” she said. The new contract mentions that for 4th-12th grade classrooms, the maximum class limit is 31 students, which many teachers say is still too many. Brown said that different class limits should depend on different programs. Stephanie Bradley, who hold a masters degree in education from DePaul, teaching and learning and a secondary
RYAN GILROY | THE DEPAULIA
Chicago Teachers Union President Jesse Sharkey (center) and Vice President Stacy Davis Gates (left) join members of to walk the streets of Chicago on Thursday, Oct. 17. history teacher at Kelly College Prep, said there should only be 28 students to a classroom. “As high school teachers, we’ve seen the impact of overcrowded classrooms on the students,” said Irma Vega, a history teacher. Under-resourced and overcrowded schools in the low-income neighborhoods of the city are affected more than any other schools, Vega said. “It’s dangerous,” Vega said. “This would not get away with schools in Oak Park or in Evanston.” In the early 2000s, Kelly was so overcrowded that there were 46 to 53 students in one classroom. Brown said that although many students from overcrowded schools came out fine, graduation rates were low and the number of students who joined gangs increased as well as pregnancy rates. At one point, there were over 40 kids in a CTT classroom, a classroom where
TRUSTEE continued from front revised bylaws from 2018 obtained by The DePaulia, trustees’ powers include selecting the university’s president and approving its annual budget. They can only be elected or removed by other trustees. Meeting notifications are only sent to trustees and are not subject to Open Meeting Law. Those meetings take place three times per year. Trustees serve for three-year terms, according to the bylaws, but they may be reelected an indefinite number of times until they reach 70 years of age. Pramaggiore is 61, and she would not be the only trustee already retired from their non-board career. After the university’s most recent presidential search process in 2017, an article in Newsline, the university public relations department’s newsletter, said “the board took several important steps at its first meeting of 2017-18 to strengthen trustee visibility” because of feedback from faculty and staff. The efforts included posting board member names and biographies to the university’s website, as well as stories in Newsline with overviews of meetings, according to the 2017 article. It remains unclear what will happen to Pramaggiore’s status on the board. University spokesperson Carol Hughes confirmed that Pramaggiore is a trustee, but did not answer a question about whether or not that is expected to change. Bryon Locke, Pramaggiore’s own spokesperson, told The DePaulia that she plans to remain a trustee as far as he was aware. Jim Ryan, president of the Board of Trustees, was unavailable for an
Anne Pramaggiore.
PHOTO COURTESY OF EXELON
interview with The DePaulia, but sent a statement through a spokesperson. “DePaul’s Board of Trustees has high expectations for everyone in the university community,” he said. “We expect even more from our fellow trustees. If something comes up that’s inconsistent with our expectations, we’ll of course take a hard look at it.” The connection between Pramaggiore and the federal corruption investigation rest solely on the timing of her departure from Exelon. “Pramaggiore was not named in those documents that we know of, but what was significant was that they were looking for any documents related to any sort of electricity rate increases that might involve four different officials from Exelon,” McKinney, the WBEZ reporter, said. “That’s a marker, and when you take into account that nobody had been expecting her to retire… it became clear that all of this stuff is a significant issue that puts Commonwealth-Exelon under a microscope.” As a utility company, ComEd works closely with government and employs an
Power of prevention
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 7
With $6.6 million grant, professor duo will research violence among black youth By Patsy Newitt Asst. News Editor
DePaul professors W. LaVome Robinson and Leonard A. Jason received a $6.6 million grant from National Institute of Mental Health for a research program combating violence amongst African American youth in Chicago Public Schools, focusing on interpersonal violence prevention. The largest grant DePaul has ever received, the money will go to continuing the professors’ Success over Stress Violence Prevention Program with ninth graders in CPS schools. Focusing on lower-income, predominantly African American communities on Chicago’s South and West Sides, the program involves educating students on personal stress reduction and strategies to solve conflicts within their community. According to a press release by the University, 80 percent of students involved reported the program helped them meet their stress reduction goal. The program involves 15 sessions in CPS schools by trained clinicians. Collaborating with Chicago Public Schools and Rush Medical Center, Success over Stress has been through two efficacy trials. Robinson, the principal investigator and project leader, emphasized that violence is not a problem specific to CPS, but rather a societal problem, making it difficult to generalize individual experience in research. “There’s no generic formula for predicting the aftermath of interpersonal violence,” she said. “Some can have no effect and can keep living their day-to-day. For some people it could have an enormous adverse effect.” African American adolescents are particularly vulnerable to stress-related adverse outcomes, according to Robinson and Jason’s NIMH research report, because they reside in low-resourced neighborhoods at higher rates than adolescents of other ethnic groups. “African Americans have been neglected, relative to adequate services,” Robinson said, ”not just in the availability of services, but also effective services.” The research also specificed that the distinct context of racial discrimination contributes the development of behaviors like aggression. Lance Williams, professor of educational inquiry and curriculum studies at Northeastern Illinois University, pinpoints that interpersonal violence is indicative of a larger picture. “Young African American men in these communities lack institutional power,” he said, “and their only forms of power becomes physical — their bodies.” This becomes a final effort to defend themselves, Williams said, making them vulnerable to violence-related behaviors. Success Over Stress combats this by focusing on developing the individual competencies of each student. Robinson notes the importance and benefits of strategies like positive thinking, turning undesirable events into a growth experience instead of being devastated by them, relaxation training to reduce anxiety and alternative and consequential problem solving to limit impulsive decision making. “It’s not just the skills themselves,” Robinson said. “Because we’ve given them a
JEFF CARRION | DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
Psychology professors W. LaVome Robinson and Leonard A. Jason have received a $6.6 million grant to fund research to reduce African American youth violence. tool box, they have a level of confidence that ‘I’m not going to be overwhelmed, whatever the challenge is, I have the skills to deal with it.’” Robinson modified Gregory Clarke’s prevention program “Coping with Stress Course,” developed for middle-class children in suburban Oregon. To contextualize the research, students themselves tailored the program’s scenarios, the press release said. African American youth in CPS schools were brought into the early stages of the program’s module-building and lesson plan process and were in charge of creating examples that were tailored to their experiences. “Different children have different stressors,” Robinson said. “So if you bring in a generic programming and you don’t have intervention content and stressors that are relevant to folks in their day-to-day existence, I don’t know if the intervention would have much meaning and success.” Robinson and Jason have been working together since 1980 and have aided in the growth of DePaul’s community psychology program to over 700 undergraduate and 100 graduate students, according to the press release. “This grant is a shining example of the cutting-edge, relevant research that occurs in our college,” Dorothy Kozlowski, interim dean of the College of Science and Health said in the release. The grant will train CPS social workers to acquire the skills and deliver the curriculum with a five-year effectiveness trial, allowing for the continuation of the training instead of relying on grant research. “Professors Robinson and Jason are leading the way,” Kozlowski said, “making significant contributions in their field and making a difference in the lives of children and families in underserved areas of Chicago.”
DePaul Center 333 South State St. Welcome Back DePaul Students Hand Tossed
Store Hours
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Mon - Fri 6:30 am – 6:30 pm
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Breakfast 6:30 am – 10 am
Quick Service of Fresh- Cracked Eggs at breakfast, Homemade Pizza, Slices & Whole Stromboli, Hot Sandwiches, Soup, Salads, and Hearty Pastas
Special: 2 Whole Large Thin Crust Pizzas $ 28 Not to be combined with other discounts
Dine in - Carry out Delivering with Door Dash and Grub Hub Student Discount for in store Purchase w/ Valid ID
8 | News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
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News. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 9
Students, on the TEDx stage
Two-credit course allows students to experiment with public speaking on major platform By Veronica Schoonover Contributing Writer
Public speaking terrifies pretty much everyone — even professionals. A new two-credit course at DePaul University encourages students to overcome their fear of public speaking. The course, “YOU, on the TEDx Stage,” teaches students how to choose and develop a topic into a final pitch. The course ends with a presentation of the students’ pitches in front of a panel of skilled speakers. The course first became available this fall and concluded on Oct. 24. The students delivered their pitches and received feedback from the panel. Lexa Murphy, Dean of the College of Communication; Kelly Richmond Pope, TEDx DePaul University speaker and accounting professor; and Shawna Franks, Theatre School alumni and speaker coach for Girl Meets Voice, Inc. made up the panel. The event was moderated by the course instructor, Deborah SiegelAcevedo. The course was created by Carolyn Bronstein, the associate dean of strategic initiatives. “We’re the College of Communication,” Bronstein said. “So we’re invested in finding ways to promote speech.” Bronstein created the course
as part of the new Center for Communication Engagement. The center strives to create speech opportunities for faculty and students and is arranging an event called The First Annual Day of Public Voice for May 12, 2020. The center partners with the Office of Public Relations and Communications, which runs the TEDxDePaul event. They support the event through the creation of the class and by providing faculty judges. Bronstein says that this class does not guarantee students a spot in TEDxDePaul, but merely gives them the resources to deliver a good speech. Each pitch at the event was two minutes long, with the exception of one student who prepared her full speech. Daisy Nauavrete, a junior at DePaul, pitched her speech entitled “This is What Racism Looks Like.” She used her personal experiences to express the existence of the subtle and sometimes unconscious racism she has experienced throughout her life. Halfway through the pitch, Nauavrete had to take a breath because the topic made her emotional. After her pitch, the panel encouraged her and said her connection to the topic was beautiful and should continue to be utilized in the speech. The panelists continued to give encouraging and
JEFF CARRION | DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
In a performance from 2017, alumna Nelly Mueller presents her speech “Careening Out of Complacency” at TEDxDePaulUniversity. The course prepares students for performance and public speeches in a professional and recognizable environment. constructive feedback to each student throughout the event. DePaul senior Priyanka Podjale’s pitch, “Love Literacy, Arranging Marriage in the 21st Century,” discussed an understanding of love in the modern age. After her pitch, Murphy said “You have to use that adrenaline to push yourself forward, because you have a great story to tell.” Public speaking is one of America’s greatest fears. According to a study on fear from Chapman University, 25.3
CAMPUS CRIME REPORT:
percent of all Americans report it as a phobia. The Center for Communication Engagement and the TEDx course strive to reverse this fear by making students more comfortable. Murphy said they want to “lift student voices” and create a collaborative environment for them to grow. The event ended with a reflection by the students on how this course has changed them. “I came into this class thinking I was going to take the environmental route,” DePaul
senior Nicole Granados said. “But I have another story to tell first.” Granados’ pitch was called “Why the Troubled Kid, Like My Brother, Is Worthy of Love.” She discussed her relationship with her brother who had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. She said the course helped her to realize that there were lots of stories she wanted to tell, but this was the one she needed to tell first.
Oct. 16, 2019- Oct. 22, 2019
LINCOLN PARK CAMPUS
LOOP CAMPUS Seton Hall 1150 W. Fullerton
8
1
Theatre School
Quad 9
6
University Hall 2
Daley Building
Schmitt Academic Center
Belden-Racine Hall
7
13 10
4 9
DePaul Center
Munroe Hall
10
2
LINCOLN PARK CAMPUS OCT. 16 1) A Threats by Phone report was filed for threats made to a staff member at 1150 W. Fullerton
OCT. 17 2) An Illegal Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor
report was filed for a person at University Hall. Person was transported to Illinois Masonic by Chicago EMS.
3)
A Theft report was filed for a person at the Student Center
12
11
Student Center 3
Lewis Center
5
Assault & Theft
Drug & Alcohol
report was filed for a person in Belden-Racine Hall. Person was transported to Illinois Masonic by Chicago EMS. 5) An Illegal consumption of Alcohol by a Minor report was filed for a person in the Student Center. Person was transported to Illinois Masonic by Chicago EMS.
6) A Theft report was filed for items taken form a locker in the Theatre School.
7)
A Criminal Trespass to Land report was filed for an individual in the Schmitt Academic Center
OCT. 18 OCT. 19 4) An Illegal consumption of Alcohol by a Minor 8) An Illegal Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor
Other
report was filed for a person in Seton Hall. Person was transported to Illinois Mason by Chicago EMS.
9)
A Criminal Trespass report was filed for people in the Quad.
LOOP CAMPUS OCT.18 10) A Theft
Report was filed for items taken from the Barnes and Noble in DePaul Center.
OCT. 21 11) An Assault
report was filed for someone who was attacked outside the Dunkin Donuts.
OCT. 21 12) A Graffiti report was filed for writing on the exterior of the Lewis Center
OCT. 22 13) A Theft
report was filed for a theft that occured in the Chipotle in the Daley Building.
10 | Nation & World. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Nation &World
Vatican considers nixing celibacy requirements
Impeachment Inquiry week in review
By Ella Lee
By Brian Pearlman
Arts & Life Editor
Nation & World Editor
Bishops voted on the penultimate day of a synod for Amazonian clergy to suggest that Pope Francis should loosen the celibacy requirement for some priests in the Amazon to promote interest in priesthood. The vote, which took place Oct. 26, was 128 in favor to 41 opposed — the closest margin of any topic voted upon, according to the National Catholic Review. The question was raised to combat the lack of priests in the nine Amazon regions. In remote areas, there are nearly 8,000 Catholics to every priest, making it difficult for regular worship. But marriage wouldn’t be an option for all priests. At the synod, Amazonian clergy suggested that the pope allows already-married deacons to become ordained as priests. The final statement of the synod, issued Saturday, said candidates should be “recognized men of the community” who have adequate training and “legally constituted, stable families.” “They’re just talking about this in the context of the Amazon and perhaps other places where priests are really few and far between,” said William Cavanaugh, professor of Catholic Studies and director of the Center for World Catholicism and Intercultural Theology at DePaul. “But it is another step towards the relaxation of the mandatory celibacy for all Latin rite Catholic priests.” Allowing married men to be ordained would break a centuries-old precedent in the Roman Catholic Church, but according to Cavanaugh, celibacy has not always been a requirement of the priesthood. “There was no celibacy requirement at the beginning,” Cavanaugh said. “It mentions Peter’s mother-in-law in the New Testament. And so did the apostles, who are that kind of original model for priesthood — they were married. Peter was considered the first Pope, and he was married, so it only becomes a solid requirement in Latin rite — so the Western Catholic Church.” He added that while allowing married Amazonian men to become priests is a big step, there are other places in the world where these exceptions have been made. In some cases, he said, previously Lutheran ministers who convert to Catholicism have been permitted to maintain their marriages after obtaining priesthood. Though the pope is only considering lifting the celibacy requirement for specific areas in the Amazon, some feel the move might be coming too quickly. “There has just been so much going on in the church recently,” said Martyna Szmitko, president of DePaul’s Catholic Student Union. “I believe they have to deal with that and get that under control before
J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE | AP
Ambassador William Taylor arrives at the Capitol in Washington to testify before House committees as part of the Democrats’ impeachment investigation of President Donald Trump, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2019.
ALESSANDRA TARANTINO | AP Pope Francis walks past statues depicting naked pregnant women as he arrives to attend a tree planting rite with members of Amazon indigenous populations in the Vatican gardens, Oct. 4, 2019.
they decide to jump into this idea.” Szmitko added that by lifting the celibacy requirement, it might make the vocation of priesthood appear less divine. “If you decide to become a priest today, you were called to become one by God,” she said. “If the celibacy requirement is lifted, then we would start getting people that want to be [a] priest because they can or want to be. Being called to become a priest is a very holy and sacred, which is a beautiful thing.” But for others, the consideration of lifting the requirement for priests — be it in the Amazon or elsewhere — has been long coming. “I think it’s dated,” DePaul senior Victor Lara said. “Because if the relationship with
God is secure, and you’re devoted to the Lord, then why not share that same kind of devotion with another person?” According to a 2018 CBS News poll, nearly 70 percent of Catholic Americans are in favor of letting priests marry. The bishops’ vote to lift the celibacy requirement for some priests is just a suggestion to the pope. The pope attended all the synod’s meetings where celibacy in the Amazon was addressed and can take as much time as he would like to decide. Additional topics addressed at the Amazonian synod included climate change and the role of women in the church, including the potential allowance of female deacons.
2 key takeaways from the Vatican’s #AmazonSynod -A majority of the 180 bishops in attendance voted to ordain married men as priests in some regions of the Amazon; expect Pope Francis’ response by the end of the year. -The Vatican may once again look into the possibility of women being ordained as deacons; no action was taken after a 2013 study was commissioned to examine the issue.
MONDAY, Oct. 21 — Mick Mulvaney said he would not resign over comments he made saying that the Trump administration held up military aid to Ukraine over an investigation into Democratic presidential frontrunner Joe Biden, his son Hunter and the Democrats; President Donald Trump accused Democrats of “fighting dirty” during the impeachment inquiry. TUESDAY, Oct. 22 — Trump called the impeachment inquiry a “lynching” on Twitter; House minority leader Kevin McCarthy defended the president’s sentiments while admitting, “That’s not the language I would use,”; South Carolina Republican Lindsay Graham defended Trump’s choice of words; the U.S.’s top diplomat in Ukraine, Bill Taylor, testified behind closed doors that Trump withheld military aid to Ukraine, demanding in exchange that the Ukrainian government open an investigation into Democrats and the Bidens; Taylor also said that Gordon Sondland, the U.S. ambassador to the European Union told him that giving the military aid was contingent on Biden and the Democrats being investigated. WEDNESDAY, Oct. 23 — Laura Cooper, a senior Department of Defense official overseeing U.S. policy towards Ukraine, testified behind closed doors, in defiance of the Pentagon’s order for her not to; around two dozen Republicans stormed secure committee rooms in protest against the private sessions where both Democrats and Republican committee members are allowed to ask witnesses questions. THURSDAY, Oct. 24 — Graham, along with 44 Republican co-sponsors, introduced a resolution condemning the House impeachment investigation. FRIDAY, Oct. 25 — Three House committees sent subpoenas to Office of Management and Budget officials Michael Duffey and Russell Vought, as well as State Department counselor T. Ulrich Brechbuhl; Charles Kupperman, a former deputy at the National Security Council under John Bolton, filed a lawsuit asking a federal court to decide whether he should listen to members of the legislative branch, who have subpoenaed him to testify, or the executive branch, who have told him not to; a judge ordered the Justice Department to give the House secret grand jury testimony from Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s Russia investigation. THE WEEK AHEAD: Testimony is expected from two former NSC officials.
Nation & World. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 11
Federal land agencies lacking in security preparedness By Brian Pearlman Nation & World Editor
Federal land management agencies like the National Parks Service have gaps in their security, even as federal data warns of the threat posed by anti-government extremist ideologies, according to a new report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report found that the Bureau of Land Management, Park Service, Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service have not completed security facility assessments on all of their occupied facilities. The findings came as the FBI warned that the threat from anti-government extremism grew from 2013 to 2017. Recent high-profile incidents include the 2016 armed occupation of the Malheur Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, led by rancher Ammon Bundy. Bundy’s father Cliven led a standoff in Bunkerville, Nevada in 2014 over unauthorized cattle grazing on federal land. In response to the report, Land Management spokesperson Derrick Henry told The DePaulia, “Federal employees should never be harassed or threatened because of their work on behalf of the American people, a policy we enforce against everyone regardless of position, prominence, or power. In defending federal employees, we investigate threats, collaborate with the FBI, U.S. Attorneys offices, and state and local law enforcement, and seek justice to the fullest extent of the law. Meanwhile we strive to improve the security of our facilities to ensure that BLM employees are protected on the job.” At a Tuesday hearing discussing the findings of the report, University of Oregon geology professor Peter Walker, who personally witnessed the 2016 Malheur occupation and interviewed its leaders and others for a 2018 book, told members of the Natural Resources Committee that he was concerned smaller groups of individuals with anti-government ideologies may get a sense of legitimacy from the high-profile actions of groups like the Bundys. “Other groups who have also advocated for replacing the existing federal government heard the message that the federal government is broken, it’s broken beyond repair, it needs to be replaced, and it’s the duty of patriots, through armed force, to re-establish constitutional government,” he said.
GAGE SKIDMORE VIA FLICKR
American cattle rancher Cliven Bundy speaks at a forum hosted by the American Academy for Constitutional Education at the Burke Basic School in Mesa, Arizona. Bundy was involved in a 2014 standoff in Nevada over cattle grazing on federal land. His son, Ammon, lead an armed takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Harney County, Oregon that lasted for six weeks in early 2016. The GAO report found that many threats against federal land management agency employees may go unreported due to employees considering them a normal part of the job. Other reasons include incidents being reported to state and local law enforcement rather than the agencies themselves. “As a result, the number of actual threats and assaults is unclear and may be higher than what is represented in available data,” the report says. From 2013 to 2017, Land Management reported 88 incidents of threats and assault against their employees; Fish and Wildlife reported 66; the Forest Service reported 177; and the Park Service reported 29. Incidents included death threats, a Land Management employee being stabbed outside a federal building, a camper telling a member of the Forest Service his dog would rip her head off and a Park Service employee’s vehicle being rammed and attempted murder. Anne-Marie Fennell, the lead writer of the report and director of the GAO’s
Natural Resources and Environment team, cautioned that the report does not examine what portion of those numbers are motivated by anti-government ideologies. According to the FBI, under 100 domestic terrorism investigations were launched into threats to federal land management agencies from 2013 to 2017, most of which involved the Bureau of Land Management. Three of the agencies — Land Management, the Forest Service and the Park Service — have no plans for completing the recommended security assessments for their occupied facilities. Officials from all three agencies cited the decentralized nature of their departments and said their state and regional offices were responsible for their own compliance with the ISC standard, a framework for how nonmilitary federal buildings should be secured that was developed in the wake of the deadly 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing. “By not using a methodology that fully complies with the ISC standard, agencies could face adverse effects, such
as an inability to make informed resource allocation decisions for their physical security needs and providing facilities — and the facilities’ occupants — with an inappropriate or insufficient level of protection,” Fennell told The DePaulia. The ISC standard includes preparing for 33 “undesirable events” including armed standoffs, automobile ramming and even chemical or biological weapons attacks. The report recommends all four agencies improve their security assessments and that Land Management, the Forest Service and the Park Service create standardized, agency-wide plans for all of their offices to complete the security assessments. Fennell said the agencies also cited a lack of available resources, expertise and training in explaining why they had not completed their federally required security assessments.
This week in HISTORY Compiled by Brian Pearlman Nation & World Editor
Oct. 28, 2002 — Diplomat Laurence Foley, of the U.S. Agency for International Development, was shot eight times at close range outside his home in Amman, Jordan. It was the first killing of an American diplomat in the country; two men, allegedly linked to al-Qaeda, were charged.
COURTESY OF NASA
STS-95 Payload Specialist John H. Glenn Jr., senator from Ohio, arrives at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a T-38 jet, Oct. 26, 1998.
that lasted about ten days.
Oct. 31, 1998 — The scientific journal “Nature” published a study from British and Dutch geneticists based on blood samples of the descendants of President Thomas Jefferson and slave Sally Hemmings. The findings suggested Jefferson was the father of Eston, Hemmings’ youngest son.
Nov. 1, 1950 — Two members Oct. 30, 1961 — The Soviet of the Puerto Rican Nationalist Oct. 29, 1998 — American astronaut and Ohio senator John Union tested “Tsar Bomba,” the Party attempted to kill PresGlenn became the oldest astro- biggest ever hydrogen bomb, at ident Harry Truman at Blair a range in the northern ArcHouse, where the president naut to travel to space when, tic Circle. It had a force of 50 was staying while the White at age 77, he rode aboard the House underwent renovations. space shuttle Discovery with a megatons. A secret service officer killed seven-person crew in a mission
HARRY S. TRUMAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
President Truman and Governor Jesus Pinero of Puerto Rico in their automobile as their motorcade departs Aguas Buenas for San Juan, Feb. 21, 1948.
one of the would-be assassins, Griselio Torresola; the other, Oscar Collazo, was sentenced to death before eventually receiving life imprisonment and being paroled by President Jimmy Carter in 1979. Collazo died in Puerto Rico in 1994.
12 | Opinions. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Opinions
Believe it or not
Halloween revives the age old question: Are ghosts real? By Keira Wingate Asst. Arts & Life Editor
I lived in my grandparents’ house when I was younger and there was a big play area for us kids to play in. It was filled with random toys and a kitchen with a slide as well. Randomly, I would hear the toys go off and they would move. Next thing I would hear is my grandma say, “Hi Mark, how are you?” Mark was my uncle who died when I was younger. I believe I was around 10. I would look over and see the lights going off and the sound of the toys would get louder. My grandma always said it was Mark playing with us kids. He never had any of his own, but loved us. I would go over there and play with him in the pretend kitchen, making food for whoever wanted to eat it. I can’t say I ever felt him or saw him, but I know he was there. One thing which always stuck with me was how, when we would acknowledge that it was him, the sounds and lights got more intense. To me, it felt like him telling us it was him. It was around that time when I started to believe in ghosts and spirits. Granted, I still only believe in the good ones and not the ones you see in horror films. Some movies, like “The Conjuring,” say they are based off a true story, which makes you think about the horror of those ghosts and spirits compared to my uncle, who just wanted to say hello and make fake eggs. “I 100 percent believe in spirits and ghosts,” said Elena Neal, a junior at DePaul. “Energy is neither created nor destroyed, so what happens to our spirit and all that energy when we die?” That is something I think of often and to this day there really isn’t one clear answer. What happens after we die? There are too many options given in entertainment, making it hard to really
understand ghosts and spirits. Why are some evil? Why are some not? An article from Fox News says 60 percent of Americans claim to have seen a ghost. Another 40 percent said their pets have seen them as well. It is unclear what form these ghosts were in. It could be anywhere from a shadow, a real person or possibly a terrifying figure we’ve come to see in films. It makes you think back to all those times when your pet was barking, meowing or just staring at something for no apparent reason. My cat has done this before, and I closed my door instantly.
“Personally, I’m on the fence on the subject even after three-plus decades of working within the field,” said Bob Jensen, founder and senior investigator/historian at GhostLand Society Paranormal. “I will say that we cannot be so ignorant thinking that we know everything. Ghosts or spirits may simply be an alternative universe with a rip in the veil between our world and their world. We think it may be ghosts or spirits we are seeing and possibly the same thoughts they have with us.” I have yet to experience anything too terrifying when it comes to ghosts, but I do believe they are out there and that
they do not have to be scary. You often hear of those who have lost a loved one and small things happening to remind them they are still here. That is what my grandma always thought of with my uncle. Every time, without fail, she would always say hello to her son. It’s as if she knew that it was him and of course, me being a child, I thought the same and still do. I don’t remember a lot of my uncle before he got sick. I like to think he was always around because he wanted to play with his nieces. There are still a lot of skeptics out there and for good reason. Horror films make it hard to believe anything like that could be true. Also, if things aren’t proven with video or picture, it is a lot harder to believe. I personally believe without having to experience anything crazy myself. “I’ve experienced a few things I cannot explain so I should be a believer, yet I’m looking for a logical explanation as to what happened,” Jensen said. “Pictures I do not buy into when I see them since it is too easy to fake them. Don’t buy into ‘orbs’ since 99 percent of them are dust or natural occurrences. Video, if not captured by myself or someone I trust, I don’t trust, and personal experiences are just that person and cannot be relied.” Until someone experiences it themselves, I don’t think they will truly believe. I think movies and shows have made it hard to separate non-reality and reality. Either way, there are definitely ghosts and spirits out there. Whether they come in friendly butterflies or a figure constantly in your basement, they will always be around, questioning your beliefs. GRAPHICS BY GINA RICARDS
Opinions. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 13
Cycle of cancellation
Shaming people for their views does not address the harm of their perspectives By Kelly Garcia Contributing Writer
It’s nearly impossible nowadays to scroll through Twitter and miss who’s fallen prey to the vigorous jaws of cancel culture. Just last week, I was completing my usual routine of waking up in the morning and checking Twitter like the newspaper and I found out that Gina Rodriguez had been canceled—again. This time, however, she was caught saying the n-word on her Instagram story while attempting to sing along to the Fugees’ “Ready or Not.” In minutes, the video was circulating on Twitter, her name was trailed by backlash, and the memes began to flourish. Soon after deleting the video from her story, she publicly apologized via the iPhone Notes App—another important trait to the aftermaths of cancel culture. But it meant little to nothing to the Twitter users who had been waiting to drag her name through filth. Gina Rodriguez is just one of many celebrities who have had their reputations tainted by cancel culture, leaving their PR teams scrambling to clean their clients’ images. Since the wake of the #MeToo movement, Twitter has become the hotspot for calling out celebrities who have done or said something problematic, thus resorting to this idea of “canceling” someone as a means of ending their career. The word problematic has been defined in many different ways. Issues have ranged from Kevin Hart’s homophobic
tweets from 2011 that forced him to step down as the host for the Oscars this past February to more legal battles, such as Harvey Weinstein, who has inarguably been expelled from the film industry for sexually assaulting and harassing many women. But is “canceling” someone an effective means of addressing the harm that’s been done and preventing more problematic behavior in the future? It’s a debate that’s beginning to surface on social media platforms as sensitivity toward celebrities and politicians begin to rise. To answer that question, it’s important to look at what cancel culture has —or has not— accomplished. When Gina Rodriguez got ‘canceled’ last week on Twitter, I pointed out that it wasn’t the first time. She’s been called out before on social media platforms for her anti-black rhetoric stemming from her desire to see more Latinx representation. “We’ve called her out before but it’s all temporary,” said Catalina Torres, a first-year student. “Canceling Gina Rodriguez after saying the n-word or using anti-black rhetoric is just fast-fashion because people are bound to stop talking about it after a month or so.” Gina Rodriguez’s Instagram story, in which she was caught saying the n-word, was just fuel for the fire for the many people who have been rightfully
offended and frustrated with her past comments. All we truly gained from canceling her again was an apology post from her on Instagram— which many Twitter users found to be insincere— and a social media hiatus that most “canceled” celebrities take for as long as people are talking about it. “Cancel culture is just click-bait,” said Andres Benites, a third-year student. “If someone says that someone has been canceled, it means nothing to me because I don’t understand why they have canceled.” It is common knowledge that when someone does or says something harmful, they don’t learn from being shunned. The ‘cancel culture’ approach is reactionary and doesn’t take advantage of the opportunities we have to better educate those with power in our society. “It’s almost like an internet campaign that begins on Twitter with the goal of erasing someone after they have done something harmful,” said Illana Blattner, a fourth-year student who actively uses Twitter. “It’s important to call people out, but most of the time it’s blown out of proportion.” I’m sure many of us wouldn’t be too proud about our tweets from 2011, but that doesn’t mean there can’t be room to grow from our mistakes and to be proactive about our behavior so we are not causing further harm. Just to be clear, however, the responsibility to educate those who have done
or said something problematic should be everyone’s, not just those who have been harmed because of the wrongdoing. That being said, there is a fine line between someone who has done something problematic and someone who has intentionally committed acts of violence, physical or not physical. Harvey Weinstein, for example, is someone who deserves to be more than just canceled. He spent years, if not decades, causing intentional harm to many women and made a huge profit off the power he had over them. Although I do hope he understands the harm his actions have caused to a lot of people, I would also hope that he faces the long list of repercussions that are deserving of someone who has that much power and intentionally chooses to abuse it. Cancel culture should remind us that we have work to do when it comes to addressing problems, especially when it involves people who hold a lot of power in our society. GRAPHICS BY ANNALISA BARANOWSKI
14 | Focus. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Focus
Lying on the big screen Many movies follow what happens when characters lie. In some movies—like the ones below—lying is a central theme to the plot of the film. “Charade” (1963) - A woman is surrounded by liars who try to find the fortune her dead husband stole. “Face/Off ” (1997) - A criminal and police officer switch faces. How can the officer catch the criminal when no one believes who he really is? “The Tourist” (2010) - A criminal changes his appearance to evade capture. His lover uses another man to keep police off his trail. “Gone Girl” (2014) - A man is suspected in his wife’s disappearance. Lies and manipulation lead the story through several twists and turns. “A Simple Favor” (2018) -A woman’s disappearance brings her whole life into question, as it is revealed she lied about her identity.
Liar, liar! Are every
In the age of fake news, lying has become By Jenna Ranieri Contributing Writer
With lies being spoken and tweeted by our president, lying has become the forefront of our culture. When the president of a country, someone who is supposed to lead by example, makes it normal to lie, others follow suit. Between the internet and politicians, sometimes it seems like there are more lies circulating than truths. The media has been blamed for consistently providing “fake news.” But in reality, they’re just middle men, sending information from those in power to the general public. “When politicians speak to you, you either have to believe what they’re saying or spend an unreasonable amount of your energy trying to prove them wrong,” DePaul senior Elizabeth Wilcox said. “I just don’t always have the energy.” “The Bottomless Pinocchio,” a rating system from the Washington Post, helps readers distinguish when politicians are lying. The system uses a number of Pinocchio icons, one through four, to describe the level of truth in a politician’s words. A single Pinocchio can be viewed as mostly true, whereas four Pinocchios are described as “whoppers,” meaning the lying is so intense, the fact-checkers cannot describe how bad it is. The lying in today’s world is often spoken about, but why it’s happening and what started it is often misspoken about. Roberta Garner, a sociology professor at DePaul, said the true start to our lying-intensive culture comes from origins in small communities. “When we lived in small communities, it was easy to check on things,” Garner said. “So, it was easier to have a day-to-day, very simple, common sense check on what’s true and what’s false. As more and more of the contents of our world is mediated, it becomes harder and harder to have those everyday checks.”
“When po speak to y ther have what they’ spend an u amount of trying to p wrong.”
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The structure of our s everyone and everyth for people to put the online instead of who online interactions ar have direct contact to and what is a lie. “Sometimes I’ll lie know because I know them,” Wilcox said. “ esting, so lying to peo Amusement and jo can stem from the hu Garner said the abilit and create something makes lying “fundam “How we differ fro mals communicate ab Garner said. “Wherea incredible capacity to at hand.” Humans feel empa
Focus. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 15
Chart topping tunes about lying Lying and cheating—especially in the context of romantic relationships—has been a prevalent theme in songs for decades. Below are some examples through the years. “Lyin’ Eyes,” Eagles, 1975 - This story follows a woman who married an old rich man she doesn’t love, so she cheats on him. The narrative follows the struggle between her cheating and lying and the commitment she made. “Little Lies,” Fleetwood Mac, 1987 -The song is believed to outline several of the band members’ failed relationships. “I Could Have Lied,” Red Hot Chili Peppers, 1991 - A narrative about a man who told a woman how he felt and she didn’t feel the same way. He discusses how lying could have saved the relationship. “Love The Way You Lie,” Eminem, 2010 - It tells a story of an intense relationship and the lies someone tells to prevent the inevitable end. “Lie,” Lukas Graham, 2019 - The story of an ex-girlfriend who comes back after she ends the next relationship. She lied about the other man, but she was also lying to herself.
yone’s pants on fire?
e part of the “fundamental human condition”
oliticians you, you eito believe ’re saying or unreasonable f your energy prove them
Elizabeth Wilcox
DePaul senior
society has changed. With hing being online, it’s easier person they want to be o they really are. Since many re with people one doesn’t o, it’s hard to tell what is true
e as a joke to people I don’t w it probably won’t hurt “I don’t think I’m that interople about who I am is fun.” oy that can come from lying uman’s ability to imagine. ty to create complex thought g from nothing is what mentally human.” om any animal, most anibout things that are at hand,” as human beings have this o imagine things that aren’t
athy, so sometimes lying is
done to protect someone. But should someone lie if friends or strangers who ask if they look good in something and an honest answer may hurt their feelings? “I sometimes tell customers they look good in a top even though I wouldn’t pick it for myself,” Wilcox said. “And it’s not because I’m trying to drive sales, I just feel the need to be nice and spare someone’s feelings. I think sparing people’s feelings within reason is not inherently bad.” This gray area of lying can be extended to politicians who make false promises. They aren’t outright lying, they may even be things the politician has strong feelings toward wanting to accomplish them. “False promises are somewhere between a total lie and the truth,” Garner said. “They’re things that could happen but they’re not really going to happen.” With the rise of media and easier access to false truths, omitting the truth, pretending to be someone you’re not and more, there are so many ways to lie. It is important to note the intent behind a lie. That is what can make the situation less gray. “I genuinely don’t think it hurts to lie to people sometimes,” Wilcox said. “I try to keep it at a level that I’m not actively hurting anybody.” Often, what’s meant to be an innocent lie does hurt people around us. Marie Fiorenzi, DePaul junior, said she experienced this over a spring break trip. She and four other people decided to drive to Canada for a couple days. There were only so many seats in the car and the roommate was already going home for break, so the group didn’t tell her about the trip. When the roommate found out, she reacted poorly, and it put a strain on their relationship. “I do think I should’ve told her sooner, but she was so excited to go home for spring break,” Fiorenzi said. “The situation ended fine but still, lying is never good and it always makes me feel bad.”
GRAPHICS BY ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
The DePaulia 2019-2020 BASKETBALL PREVIEW
They got next INSIDE
Roster, schedule breakdown
Page 2
Markese Jacobs and Romeo Weems are ready to put the Blue Demons back on the map
Weems ready for liftoff Page 3
Darious Hall gets his chance Page 3
2 | Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
MEN’S Full Court Coverage
Dave Leitao
Eighth season at DePaul 1 NCAA Tournament Appearence
ROSTER PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Paul Reed: Jr 6’9”, F GP/GS: 31/31 11.7 PPG, 4.7APG, 3.7 RPG
Jaylen Butz: Jr, 6’9”, F GP/GS : 31/31 16.8 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.7 APG
Jalen Coleman-Lands Jr, 6’4”, F GP/GS: 8/8 5.9 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.8 APG Romeo Weems: Fr, 6’7”, F Transfer from Illinois 8.0 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 1.0 APG
Charlie Moore: Sr, 5’11”, G Transfer from Kansas 16.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.2 APG
ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul Men’s ‘19-20 Schedule Records from the 2018-2019 season
Lyrik Shreiner JR-G, #10
Brendan Favre SO-G, #20
Devin Gage JR-G, #3
Seton Hall Pirates
20-14 (9-9)
Villanova Wildcats
26-10 (13-5)
Xavier Musketeers
19-16 (9-9)
Marquette Golden Eagles 24-10 (12-6) Jason Malonga Darious Hall JR-G #12 JR-F #13
Flynn Cameron SO-G, #21
Providence Friars Georgetown Hoyas
Markese Jacobs
FR-G, #0
Mick Sullivan SO-F #23
Creighton Bluejays
Sullivan Menard FR-G #30
19-14 (9-9)
20-15 (9-9)
Oscar Lopez FR-G #15
Butler Bulldogs
Pantelis Xidias JR-G, #35
18-16 (7-11)
Nick Ongenda FR-C, #14
16-17 (7-11)
St. John’s Red Storm
21-13 (8-10)
DePaul Blue Demons
19-17 (7-11)
Conference records in parentheses. Teams listed in order of preseason coaches’ poll.
Nov. 5: Alcorn State 8 p.m. Nov. 6: Chicago 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8: Fairleigh Dickinson 7 p.m. Nov. 11: at Iowa 7 p.m. Nov. 16: Cornell Noon Nov. 23: at Boston College TBA Nov. 26: Central Michigan 7 p.m. Nov. 29: at Minnesota 2 p.m. Dec. 4: Texas Tech 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14: UIC 1 p.m. Dec. 18: at Cleveland State TBA Dec. 21: Northwestern 7:30 p.m. Dec. 30: Seton Hall 7:30 p.m. Jan. 4: Providence TBA Jan. 11: at St. John’s 11 a.m. Jan. 14: at Villanova 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18: Butler Noon Jan. 25: Creighton 8 p.m. Jan. 25: St. John’s 1 p.m. Jan. 29: at Seton Hall 5:30 p.m. Feb. 1: at Marquette 1 p.m.. Feb. 4: Xavier 8 p.m. Feb. 8: at Georgetown 11 p.m. Feb. 15: at Creighton 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19: Villanova 8 p.m. Feb. 22: Georgetown 8 p.m. Feb. 25: Xavier 6 p.m. Feb. 29: Butler 5:30 p.m. March 3: Marquette TBA March 7: at Providence 5:30 p.m.
Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 3
Romeo Weems ready to make instant impact By Lawrence Kreymer Sports Editor
For Romeo Weems picking DePaul over schools like Michigan State and Ohio State came down to a simple decision: he wants to be coached. During his recruitment process, Weems was being looked at by some of the country’s most elite college basketball programs, teams like Michigan, Oregon, Ohio State and Michigan State were heavily going after the New Haven, Michigan native. But, while those schools have more name recognition and have had more success than DePaul in the last decade, one thing stood out to Weems in terms of what DePaul was telling him compared to what the other schools were telling him: he can still get better. “I just feel more at home [at DePaul],” Weems said. “During the recruitment process, a lot of coaches was telling me everything I did well instead of what I need to do to get better. I feel like DePaul was one of XAVIER ORTEGA | THE DEPAULIA the only coaches, it was a cou- DePaul frehsman forward Romeo Weems backs down in the post in the Blue Demons’ open scrimmage. ple more, but it was one of the stantly improved his game from ends of the floor. Like all freshonly coaches that told me what make it to the NBA. “I feel like me and my teamhis sophomore season to his men, he’s got really good days I could do to get better, winning mates all got great energy, great senior year, where he averaged and he’s got days where he has games, become a better player, athleticism, we all got the chance 27.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 to figure some things out that’s stuff like that. [They] also told to do something special,” Weems steals, 3.5 assists and 2.6 blocks very typical. But he’s maintained me stuff that I did well, but as said. “We got a whole new team, per game at New Haven and was a really good attitude and wants a kid I know everyone wants to it’s like eight new players. So, I named Michigan’s Mr. Basket- to learn which is the best part hear that, but me I want to be just wanted to come here, flip ball. In his early days at DePaul, from a coaching standpoint is better everyday. So, I wanted to the program around with them, the thing that has stood out to a guy that really, really wants to hear the stuff I needed to better show other kids that you don’t head coach Dave Leitao was his learn and get better. Put all of and I just felt more at home than have to go to the Dukes, Kenenergy and willingness to learn. those things together and we are other schools. tucky, Michigan States like that “He’s a lot, very positive really excited not just for now For Weems, who was a fourto go to the NBA. There’s a lot energy, he’s worked extremely but for the future.” star recruit and plays small forof great players in the league hard, he’s mature beyond his Weems isn’t the only DePaul ward, his mindset is to improve that went to low-majors, Steph years, he’s surprisingly good player who’s being talked about his game on a daily basis, he Curry, Kawhi Lenoard, you can defensively for a guy who’s only by the national media going into knows that you don’t have to go be a great player youcast gotta been practicing a few weeks,” this season, players like fellow to an “elite” college basketball put the work in no matter where Leitao said. “He’s accepted freshman Markese Jacobs and school in order to have a sucyou go.” things very quick, he’s able to do junior Paul Reed are being discessful college career or even In high school, Weems con- what you ask him to do on both cussed as serious playmakers for
the Blue Demons this season. “It means a lot because we need all the pieces we can get and [Romeo] is a big piece of the puzzle right now with his length and athleticism,” Reed said. “So, it just means a lot [to have him at the program]. Weems has no questions about this team because he believes not only will DePaul make the NCAA Tournament but when they do, they will make a deep run in the tournament. “Honestly, yes, I feel like we got a chance, a great chance, everyone puts in the work and honestly I feel like we can go to the tournament,” Weems said. “And when we get to the tournament, the way everybody on my team is, the way we lock in in a tough situation. I feel like where everybody is from we all come out from the mud, so I feel like when we get there we are going to make noise.” Weems’ passion for basketball began when he was in eighth grade, but he has been involved in sports his whole life. He began playing football at a young age, but when he was around 1314 years old he started to get recruited and got calls from Team USA. While his goal is to play in the NBA one day and be a successful player, Weems’ dreams and hopes is that his baksetball talents end up providing for his mom and dad. “I grew up playing football and then I started playing basketball, around eighth grade I started getting recurited, ninth grade I started getting USA looks,” Weems said. “I just feel that this is a good way to feed my family, take care of my mom everything she did for us, my pops everything he did for us. Give back to my city, just live my life.”
Darious Hall poised to make major difference on defense By Luke Meyers Copy Editor
After redshirting a year due to NCAA transfer guidelines, Darious Hall is finally ready to suit up for the DePaul Blue Demons. In his freshman season at the University of Arkansas, he played in all 35 games and averaged 5.1 points and 3.1 rebounds in 14.8 minutes per game. He also shot 50 percent from the field and a blistering 40.6 percent from beyond the three-point arc. In April of 2018, he committed to transfer to DePaul. For the Little Rock, Ark. native, the redshirt year provided a valuable opportunity to learn more about himself as a player and a person. “I had to mature more, especially staying in Chicago, a big city,” Hall said. “It’s not the same as back home. The first thing I had to adjust to was the weather, I wasn’t used to it.” He also said that the time away from the court allowed him to improve his grades and his relationship with the DePaul coaching staff. Head Coach Dave Leitao liked what he saw from Hall during his redshirt year. “He was a bright light
every day in terms of bringing his energy, and using his athleticism and his energy to make a difference,” Leitao said. “Especially when you’re on a second team and you’re sitting out for a whole year, and you know you’re not playing games… but he never let that affect him.” Hall has lofty goals for both himself and the team this season. “I do have the confidence that we can win the Big East this year,” he said. “The reason why is that we have a talented team, a talented group of guys where everybody is locked in and collected as one. When you’re like that, can’t nobody break that bond.” Hall has his eyes set on the Big East Defensive Player of the Year award. His teammate, junior forward Paul Reed, praised Hall’s defense. “He’s a defensive guy,” Reed said. “He brings that energy to the court, to the locker room, everywhere. And he’s a leader, he’s always got his cool. He can really do everything. It’s good to have a guy like that around.” Hall, a 6 foot 7 inch, 215 pound forward, is a valuable addition to DePaul’s frontcourt. He
XAVIER ORTEGA | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul sophomore forward Darious Hall comes down with a rebound in the Blue Demons’ open scrimmage on Saturday. showed flashes of his potential in some standout games at Arkansas, including an 11-point, seven-rebound performance against Tennessee in the SEC tournament and 14-point, 11-rebound double-double on the road against Mississippi. “He gives us length and athleticism,” Leitao said. “Particularly on the defensive end, the guy can cover a lot more ground than what we’re used to.” He also praised Hall’s abil-
ity to get to the free-throw line, saying that he leads the team in drawing fouls. Leitao also echoed Reed’s thoughts on Hall’s impact on the locker room. “He has a personality that’s really good for our team, good for our locker room,” he said. Leitao was effusive in describing the value of players like Hall who bring energy on and off the court. “He is always looking forward
to the next day, and he plays that way both emotionally and physically,” Leitao said. With DePaul’s first game of the season drawing near, the opportunity to get out and play again is extremely meaningful for Hall. “It’s just mind-blowing,” he said. “I haven’t played in so long, I got people back home that want to see me play, people here that want to see me play… I would say it’s a weight off my shoulders, but at the same time it’s not because it’s something I love to do and it’s something I’m ready to do.” Hall is itching to get back on the court and show Blue Demons fans what he can do. “I bring everything,” he said. “Energy, defense, communication, leadership… and just bring wins back to Wintrust and DePaul.” Hall also suggested that DePaul could surprise some people in the Big East this year. “[The rest of the Big East] don’t really know what we’re cooking up right now,” he said. “But when it comes out, they’re going to be scared.”
4 | Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Oral history: 2019 Big Eas By Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
The Women’s basketball team has competed for the Big East championship for the past six years since conference realignment. In the past three seasons, they have gone to the tournament championship three times, winning two of them. On March 12, 2019, DePaul faced Marquette University in the finals at Wintrust Arena. The game came down to a final shot by then-junior forward Chante Stonewall. This is an oral history of the game and the shot that brought the Blue Demons to their 17th consecutive NCAA Tournament. The Blue Demons were facing the Marquette Golden Eagles, a team they had faced twice that season, losing in Milwaukee 63-96 in January and losing in Chicago in early February 87-93. Yet even with the two losses, there was a feeling of content going into the title game. In the 2018 Big East title game, DePaul routed Marquette 98-63. Doug Bruno (Head Coach of DePaul Women’s Basketball): I am always in a place of relaxed-intensity. I hate the word relaxed because I’m not relaxed but I’m never afraid. I can’t coach afraid, I don’t care who I’m playing, you can’t coach scared. I wasn’t walking around ever in some place of fear of Marquette, you know, ever. I never was walking around like ‘they beat us, they passed us up’, the numbers don’t lie. Abbas Dahodwala (Radio DePaul Sports Announcer): Going into the game, we knew it was going to be a dogfight. Chante Stonewall (Senior Forward): Of course, we had played Marquette a lot of times. We had lost at their gym so we understood that it would be a tiebreaker between them and us. So it was just one of those things where we wanted to defend our homecourt, do what we do best. Kelly Campbell (Senior Guard): Going into that game we were definitely super focused and knew that they weren’t going to let happen what we did to them the year before. Lexi Held (Sophomore Guard): We knew what we were up again cause we played against them twice. We just had a chip on our shoulder so we were really energized and excited to get into that game. The game was exactly as advertised. The Blue Demons and Golden Eagles battled all throughout the game, with Marquette star Natisha Hiedeman doing what she had done all year. DePaul was facing shooting woes but only trailed by five points at halftime. The atmosphere in Wintrust Arena was electric, and the teams were feeding off of that energy. Dahodwala: Nobody was showing up beside for Stonewall. Midway through the first or second quarter, Marquette had like forty kids walking outside of the tunnel just making noise. It was really loud. Alexa Sandler (DePaulia Contributing Photographer): The vibe was that everyone was pretty excited. It kinda shifted during the game, when lead changes were happening. It got really nitty-gritty, there was a lot of suspense and you could feel it in the arena. Bruno:I really just focused on our specific matchups, focused on what we were trying to do with the gameplan, focus on how we weren’t going to tie the game or take the lead in the game in one trip. You don’t do that in one trip you need the patience of staying strong. Held: We were just trying to take it possession by possession, not get too ahead of ourselves and control what we can control. Blue Demons fans and players hoped that the second half would go better and that this game wouldn’t end up like the other two times they faced Marquette. But in the third quarter, Things started to go wrong for the Blue Demons as they found themselves down by 13 points during the third quarter. Held: Marquette was a good team, they could make runs, that’s what made them so good. They can get up on you so quick just bc they can shoot the ball and get up on you so quick. Stonewall: Bruno always preaches to us that when we are down that we got to win one possession at a time. And so make a stop, score, make a stop, score. So that was our mindset. Sandler: I was like ‘you gotta be kidding’ I was sitting there thinking ‘here we go’. It was a too good to be true sort of thing. I felt a little hopeless but I didn’t lose hope. Bruno: There wasn’t a whole lot we didn’t know about them that we couldn’t adjust too. But you are constantly in the state of switching a matchup here and there. The Blue Demons were able to adjust. Shots started falling and they began to crawl their way back into the game. By the fourth quarter, they were trading blows with the Golden Eagles and were within striking distance. Bruno: The players not quitting and not giving up when you’re down 13 points with 6 minutes to go, that’s vivid. You are back to coaching fearlessly, and you win the possession, win the next possession, when you string winning possessions, the next thing you know we are chasing a point. Stonewall: I’m not saying it’s a good thing but we were down a lot of times during the season so we knew how to overcome that adversity. Sandler: Me and the other photographer for the athletics department were trying to keep that level of professionalism and trying to shoot the game. But as DePaul students,
we were both really invested in the game. Held: It was a really intense game. The fans here were crazy because we were at home. It was a really fun environment to play in, especially it being that close late in the game. Then came the final play, the Blue Demons had mounted their comeback and found themselves down by two points with 10.4 seconds left on the clock. Lexi Held inbounded the ball to Campbell at midcourt. Fans held their breath as Campbell found Stonewall who came up from the paint, Campbell drove in and was fouled on her shot attempt that went in with 5.4 seconds remaining. Held: We had Ashton (Millender) in the corner because she was hitting her threes that game. We just spaced the floor and had Chante do her thing and it worked out. Dahodwala: That shot was electric, I mean that shot was so good. Stonewall: It was super important to me that I made the shot cause it could have been a no-call. Bruno: We ran something we had practiced. That was fortunate. Just because we practiced it doesn’t mean we will execute it. Chante executed it well which was awesome. The game wasn’t sealed at that point though. With the game tied, it was up to Stonewall to hit the free throw. Bruno: I refuse to shout to my players while they are on the free-throw line. So I just keep my mouth shut, knowing she has to match up with Hiedeman, and hoping that we had educated well enough during the season that she would match up. Stonewall hit the free throw, and with no timeouts remaining, Marquette
inbounded the ball to Hie wall. Sandler: Ok, we are up by one, in sports games. Bruno: Chante had to guard H buzzer beaters, and that wa Dahodwala: I was very nervous whe Stonewall leading them. Hiedeman put up a m rebound, the buzzer soun nament champions. Campbell: Everyone storming the down 13 and came back to Stonewall: You dream of it, but wh Bruno: It’s a review that they w really special and great exp Sandler That moment was so sp DePaul celebrated the players celebrating and cu third straight Big East titl
Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 5
ast championship game
Photos by: Alexa Sandler
edeman, who took it down the court, guarded by Stonethere is still time for them to get it. Crazy things happen
Hiedeman immediately, and Hiedeman had made a lot of as really special to have her guard that.
en Hiedeman was driving with that, but once again, it was
Middle: Lexi Held and Chante Stonewall celebrate after Stonewall hit a game-winning shot in the 2019 Big East championship game on March 12 at
measly effort on a shot that missed. DePaul grabbed the nded and the Blue Demons were the 2019 Big East tour-
Wintrust Arena.
e court after, the game it was so surreal that like we were o win. A win like that, you remember forever.
defeating Marquette 74-73 in the Big East championship.
hen it actually happens it’s like wow, this is amazing.
will have for life and it’s never going anywhere. That is a perience for a coach.
pecial for the fans too and anyone working with athletics. heir last-second win with fans storming the court and utting down the nets. The team is looking to win their le this season.
Top right: The DePaul women’s basketball team takes a picture together after
Bottom right: DePaul women’s basketball head coach Doug Bruno looks on in the second half during the Big East title game against Marquette. Bottom right: DePaul senior guard Chante Stonewall gets awarded the Most Valuable Player of the Big East Tournament after defeating Marquette. Bottom left: Former DePaul forward Mart’e Grays celebrates after winning the Big East championship game.
6 | Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Senior tandem finally steps into lead role Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
Kelly Campbell and Chante Stonewall knew that they would have this chance. Both four-year players on the DePaul women’s basketball team, the dynamic duo know each other in and out while on the court. The pair have started and played heavy minutes over the past few years. They are the highly-touted players on DePaul who always appear on the opposing team’s scouting report. Now, they have full reign as seniors. Campbell and Stonewall have earned their share of accolades in their careers, but they are carrying special recognitions into this year. Campbell, a guard, was named to the Lieberman Award watch list as one of the top point guards in the nation. Stonewall, a forward, was named to the Cheryl Miller Award watch list as one of the top small forwards in the nation. Yet these are previews, and as head coach Doug Bruno said on Saturday at an open practice, “we play for reviews.” Reviews like how Stonewall and Campbell can know that they have been a part of two straight Big East conference tournament championships as well as three trips to the NCAA tournament. Yet Bruno’s philosophy rings true in their heads, which is one of the reasons they have excelled in this program. “Both Chante and Kelly are special seniors,” Bruno said. “They’ve
JONATHAN AGUILAR | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul senior Kelly Campbell passes the ball to her fellow senior teammate Chante Stonewall. both worked very, very hard to put themselves in the position to have great senior years.” Their belief in the “one game at a time” philosophy, their positive mindset and ultimate success has carved out their spot in DePaul athletics history. Their senior year isn’t the cherry on top, but simply a continuation of their excellent careers. “It’s an honor,” Stonewall said. “We have been waiting on this mo-
ment to officially be named captain.” Stonewall and Campbell are the only seniors on the team. They are looking to improve upon their marks from last season. Stonewall was the second-leading scorer on the team last season with 14.3 points per game, also adding 6.6 rebounds per game.In Big East play, she shot 39 percent on threepointers and 47 percent from the
field overall. Stonewall is the main forward on a team full of guards, and her size and unique vision make her an integral part of DePaul’s offense. Campbell was the key facilitator on the team. She had 75 more assists than anyone else on the team as well as being top five in assist to turnover ratio in the country. On top of leading the team in assists, she averaged a team-high 7.7
rebounds a game. “You’re always attracted to an athlete’s skillset,” Bruno said. “They both had good basketball skillsets and they both had different kinds of athleticism. Kelly’s is more visual and Chante’s is more run and jump. But Chante also has great visual athleticism.” Two now-graduated players, Mart’e Grays and Ashton Millender, averaged double-digit points alongside Stonewall. Campbell’s role as a scorer can definitely grow this season, along with other players like sophomore guard Lexi Held. Stonewall and Campbell know that this season is a doubleedged sword. Soon enough, neither of them will be donning a DePaul jersey. “[It’s] definitely a game-bygame basis, being more aggressive for sure will need to happen,” Campbell said. “I think just doing what I do best, doing the little things and making sure everything runs all smoothly.” The two are preparing to turn the corner and take their last lap as Blue Demons with high hopes. With a tight and competitive Big East, repeating as champions won’t be easy. There are a lot of teams knocking at the door, but for now, DePaul, with Campbell and Stonewall leading the charge, are at the top. “I think we are ready for the challenge of the season, any type of adversity we face, we will be able to overcome it based on our experience and we are ready to get things rolling,” Stonewall said.
Transfer Deja Church finds perfect fit in Lincoln Park Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
Deja Church knew she had a place to go. Once her stint as a player at the University of Michigan began to wind down, DePaul was the next step in her collegiate career. The 5-10 guard from Southfield, Michigan was heavily recruited by the Blue Demons and head coach Doug Bruno before she elected to play her freshman and sophomore years in the Big Ten. Church, a finalist for Michigan Miss Basketball in high school, played in every game as a Wolverine, starting all of her sophomore year. She averaged 8.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists through her two years. She was on her way to being a successful player at Michigan, but she was seeking something different in a program. “Michigan just wasn’t a good fit for me, on the court and off the court,” Church said. Church entered the transfer portal after the NCAA tournament in March, where she started on a Michigan team that made it to the second round of play. She was anything but unfamiliar with what the Blue Demons were doing over in Chicago. Church had an in, after having visited with DePaul coaching staff as well as the players. “Out of high school, they were recruiting me and I knew I
had good relationships with the coaches and stuff,” Church said. So mainly when I was transferring I was looking for a school that I could come into right away and impact the team. DePaul, they’re known for quick guards, shooting threes and playing 94 feet. I thought that was more my type of style from what I was used to.” This style change was welcome for Church, as she felt a bit limited in the system at Michigan, DePaul plays a more free game with more three-point shots and speed. And the experience that she gained at Michigan made her a perfect candidate for coming to DePaul. “I’m really excited about her growth,” Bruno said. Church only started four games in her freshman year before stepping into a fuller role as a sophomore. Her numbers steadily grew and she scored a career-high 19 points in two different games. “Those aren’t shabby freshman/ sophomore numbers,” Bruno said. When she realized she could get into a role at DePaul this summer, it made things a lot easier. When a player transfers between colleges, oftentimes they have to wait a year in order to be eligible to play at their new school. Church’s waiver was granted by the NCAA and she will be able to play a key role on the court with DePaul this season. The impression she has already made on her teammates is
JONATHAN AGUILAR | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul junior Deja Church dribbles the ball up the court in an open scrimmage on Saturday at Wintrust. huge. “We are very excited to have Deja, she is very competitive and very talented so it’s really great that we have her,” senior guard Kelly Campbell said. Getting transfers into the system is a lot different for a program compared to integrating freshmen. The change in the environment is something that takes time to get through, and transfers go through that early. “That’s what a junior college or four-year transfer has already experienced,” Bruno said.
“They’ve already been exposed to and taught the drill of ‘this is how you go to school when its in college,’ ‘this is how you write a paper when it’s in college,’ ‘this is the speed of the game when you’re in college,’ ‘this is how college coaches act’. They have a handle on the drill, freshmen don’t have that.” After a player commits to another school, coaches and representatives from other schools can’t make any contact. So when a transfer like Church calls, it’s representative of a special con-
nection. “Transfering wasn’t easy but it was easier than I thought it was,” Church said. “The team and the coaches, they welcomed me with open arms. Obviously it was tough because I am playing right away and I got a waiver to play that I have to learn the style of play, what the girls expected, and what the coaches expected. They made it what it was, the welcoming was the best.”
Basketball Preview. The DePaulia Oct 28, 2019 | 7
Women’s Full Court Coverage ROSTER PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Kelly Campbell: Jr, 5’10”, G GP/GS: 33/33 7.5 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 5.1 APG
Deja Church: Jr, 5’10”, G GP/GS: 34/34 8.6 PPG, 2.4 APG, 3.9 RPG
Maya Stovall: So, 5’7”, G GP/GS: 29/14 2.4 PPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 RPG
Lexi Held: So 5’10”, G GP/GS: 32/0 8.3PPG, 1.6APG, 1.3 RPG
Chante Stonewall: Sr, 6’1”, G GP/GS: 34/33 14.3 PPG, 1.5APG, 6.6 RPG
ANDREW HATTERSLEY | DEPAULIA DESIGN BY ANNALISA BARANOWSKI| DEPAULIA
Records from the 2018-2019 season
DePaul Blue Demons Hannah Purcell FR-F, #14
Kiara Dallmann JR-G, #42
Keke Rimmer FR-G #1
St John’s Red Storm
16-16 (7-11)
Seton Hall Pirates
15-15 (7-11)
Creighton Bluejays
Providence Friars Sonya Morris FR-G, #11
Kayla Caudle FR-F, #24
Dege Jean FR-F, #32
15-16 (8-10)
17-15 (8-10)
Jolene Daninger FR-G, #15
Villanova Wildcats
18-12 (9-9)
Butler Bulldogs
21-9 (11-7)
Xavier Musketeers Dee Bekelja JR-F, #23
26-7 (14-4)
11-19 (2-16)
Marisa Warren FR-G, #30
Doug Bruno
Marquette Golden Eagles 26-7 (15-3)
34rd season at DePaul 24 NCAA Tournaments
LAST SEASON’S TEAM AVERAGES
81.1
Points Per Game
Georgetown Hoyas
16-15 (9-9)
Conference records in parentheses. Teams listed in order of preseason coaches’ poll.
72.9
Opp. Points Per Game
42%
DePaul Women’s ‘19-20 Schedule Nov. 8: Miami (Ohio) 4:30 p.m. Nov. 22: Arkansas State 11 a.m. Nov. 26: Milwaukee 4:30 p.m. Dec. 1: at Northwestern TBA Dec. 7: at Green Bay 1 p.m Dec. 11: at Notre Dame TBA Dec. 14: Alabama State 3 p.m. Dec. 16: Connecticut 7 p.m. Dec. 20: at Loyola-Chicago 7 p.m. Dec. 29: Marquette 4 p.m. Jan. 3: at Providence 5:30 p.m. Jan. 5: at Creighton 1 p.m. Jan. 10: Seton hall 7 p.m. Jan. 12: St. John’s Noon Jan. 17: at Xavier 6 p.m. Jan. 19: at Butler 1 p.m. Jan. 24: Villanova 7 p.m. Jan. 26: Georgetown 2 p.m. Jan. 31: Creighton 7 p.m. Feb. 2: Providence 1 p.m. Feb. 7: at St. John’s 6 p.m. Feb. 9: at Seton Hall Noon Feb. 14: Butler 7 p.m. Feb. 16: Xavier 2 p.m. Feb. 21: at Georgetown 6 p.m. Feb. 23: at Villanova Noon March 1: at Marquette 2 p.m. Field Goal Percentage
Final frontier
Basketball Preview. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 8
Kelly Campbell and Chante Stonewall prepare for their last ride as Blue Demons
INSIDE
Oral history of Big East title Page 4-5
Seniors ready for final season Page 6
Big 10 transfer to make impact Page 6
16 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Arts & Life
Hay, pumpkins!
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up brings fall vibes downtown NICHOLAS MOREANO | THE DEPAULIA
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-up, which is located on Elston Avenue, offers fall food, drinks, games and photo opportunities in a pumpkin patch themed experience.
By Nicholas Moreano Contributing Writer
Walking through the entrance at Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up encapsulates everything that is associated with fall: mounds of hay, plenty of people wearing their favorite flannels and, of course, pumpkins. Instead of spending a night exploring the city amongst the skyscrapers, people can maneuver through the stalks of corn in Chicago’s largest corn maze. From posing in front of the multitude of backdrops and photo-ops to throwing axes or having your fortune read, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the month-long event. For Kathia Garza, who went to Jack’s on Oct. 19, the corn maze and photo-ops were the attractions that stuck out to her. “I really like that they have a corn maze because I wouldn’t have imagined the city being too open to that since it is such a compact area,” Garza said. “But I really liked the corn maze, and I really liked all the places you can take pictures at.” Jack’s spans over two acres of land, and they have plenty to offer. Along with the more classic fall activities the patch offers, they also have arcade and carnival games. Some of Jack’s arcade games include Galaga, Super Mario Bros. and Skee-Ball. There are also carnival games like Zombie Brain Smash, where the main goal is to toss a brain in the zombie. There is also Break A Plate, where participants are given the option of a softball or baseball and have three chances to break a plate.
In addition to the games, they also serve food. There are two food trucks located at Jack’s. One is Flash Taco, which provides Mexican food such as elotes, tacos and nachos. The second is Smoke Daddy, a barbecue establishment, where customers can purchase items such as the Caroline pork sandwich with a side of mac and cheese. Plus, there are four full-service bars at Jack’s. Each bar offers an assortment of beers, mixed drinks and shots. Some of the options include Jack’s famous whiskey shot, the Smashing Pumpkin, a vodka infused cocktail called the Hocus Pocus and beers such as Angry Orchard. The pop-up experience has drawn plenty of publicity since opening on Oct 3. Although it was extremely crowded Saturday night, this did not affect Garza’s friend and DePaul senior Mercedes Alvarez’s experience. “I still really liked the environment,” Alvarez said. “There were a lot of people there, but it didn’t feel overwhelming.” Environments such as Jack’s wouldn’t be possible without people like Mikky J. Wright. As the marketing and special events director, Wright helps manage, lead and create all the messaging that goes to the general public and the media and makes sure the employees are prepared to do their jobs and plans special events that happen during the pop-up. All this has culminated in Jack’s becoming even more popular than when it was introduced for the first-time last year. Still, there are some people who haven’t
NICHOLAS MOREANO | THE DEPAULIA
Attendees enjoy drinks around the bar, surrounded by pumpkins and twinkling lights. attended the pop-up experience. For those individuals, Wright has one particular reason why that should change. “The unique immersion experience that we offer at Jack’s appeals to all ages,” he said. “What I enjoy about Jack’s every day is that an adult, a parent, a grandparent can go there and the experience resonates to when they were children and creates memories for children that come.” Location: Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is located at 1465 N. Elston Ave in Goose Is-
land. Hours: Monday-Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Cost: For adults, and depending on the specific ticket and time, $20-$25 for general admission and up to $115 for the Ultimate Jack’s Experience. Kids general admission (Age 5-12) costs $12, and children under four years old are free.
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 17
Candy Land A look at America’s favorite sweets
By Jenna Ranieri Contributing Writer
People hand out everything from chocolate treats to gum to homemade baked goods. But even with the increase in candy sales since 2015, there is still a major chunk of the population that does not hand out candy at all. These people may be too busy at parties or watching spooky movies, or they may just hate fun and candy. Halloween doesn’t need them. There are enough spooks and candy for the rest of us! In many suburbs, there are huge competitions within the neighborhood for the best Hal-
loween house. And really, the decision comes down to the candy being handed out. When choosing what to hand out to trick-or-treaters, people consider many factors, such as personal preference, affordability and even perceptions of what good treat-givers hand out. The desire to be the best house on the block each Halloween season could explain the fact that 32 percent of the population spent up to $50 on Halloween candy last year. Regardless of which house is best, everyone has those brands they love and those they are disappointed to see fall into their bag.
Candies people are least excited to receive, in millions
GRAPHICS BY GINA RICARDS STATISTICS FROM STATISTA
18 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Netflix & Chills vs. Huluween
This year’s Halloween streaming options are endless By Brian Gilbert Contributing Writer
It’s that scary time of the year again and no, we’re not talking about finals. It’s the spooky season, which means its time for ghosts, ghouls and goblins. It’s also time for gloomy nights, sample size candy (not you, candy corn) and scary movie marathons. As soon as October 1 hits we’re suddenly surrounded with pumpkin spice lattes, Halloween decorations and a seemingly endless amount of Halloween entertainment for the next 31 days. Luckily, if you’re a fan of Halloween entertainment, streaming services like Netflix and Hulu have some of the best Halloween movies and TV shows to keep you in the spooky spirit. It’s no secret that during the month of October horror movies and TV shows suddenly become more popular, and with Netflix and Hulu creating their own Halloween sections, they’ve been able to feed the viewers’ cravings for Halloween entertainment. “While there’s usually just the one night for a party or trick or treating, scary movies and TV shows allow audiences to experience the thrill of Halloween all month long,” said Nathan DeWitt, a screenwriting professor at DePaul. “There’s probably also something about the season changing, leaves falling, it gets darker earlier, autumn is a very spooky time of year. Scary movies and TV let us feel those scary feelings in our homes, in an environment which is hopefully fairly safe.” Even if you’re not a fan of horror movies or TV shows, the season and time of year still undoubtedly get most people in the mood to be spooked. “I think people associate Halloween with watching scary stuff even if they don’t typically like such things. So, I think it’s them getting into the spirit,” DePaul senior Andrew Maloney said. “Some people love the adrenaline rush and suspense associated with the genre.” Rachel Kennaugh, a political science major at DePaul, thinks that it’s a great idea for streaming services to have a Halloween section in October for people to get into the spirit. “It’s the one time of year that fear is celebrated, I think people find horror films and being scared exciting,” she said. “It [the streaming services] makes it easier for people to find their favorites and what interests them the most.” Before Netflix and Hulu, cable channels like Freeform (formerly ABC Family) and AMC would be the few options on TV in October for binging Halloween entertainment. Now, there is no shortage of choices with original and classic options thanks to today’s digital streaming world. “What these streaming services have done is make a wide variety of horror titles within the various horror subgenres more available to viewers,” DeWitt said. “Whether you’re into slasher movies, suspenseful thrillers, zombies, vampires, serial killers, the devil himself, monster stories, you can find your brand of scary any time, day or night.” Maloney agrees with DeWitt that these
streaming services have helped create a wide variety of horror options that are now easier to find. “Everyone loves being able to watch such content from the security of their couch, so I wouldn’t doubt that streaming services have kept horror movies more accessible,” she said. ‘Tis the season, so break out the treats and get ready to embrace the chills because here are some scary recommendations for what to watch on Netflix and Hulu this Halloween season: Netflix and Chills 1. “Scream” (1996), “Scream 2” (1997) and “Scream 3” (2000) All the “Scream” movies, except the fourth, are available to stream. The first “Scream” is still considered one of the best horror movies of all time, not only providing scares and gore but clever commentary on the slasher genre itself. “Scream 2” is a clever sequel, while making fun of sequels throughout the film, with more kills and laughs than the first. “Scream 3” finds itself falling back on horror clichés and in the end being more goofy than scary, but Parker Posey’s performance makes it worth the watch. 2. “The Witch” (2015) “The Witch was one of the more under-
rated, low-key independent horror films of 2015. This film put Anya Taylor-Joy on the Hollywood map with her reserved, yet duplicitous performance. The story is about a family in 17th century New England that is torn apart by the forces of witchcraft, black magic and possession. It’s slow-building, creepy and dark that has an ending that will keep you up at night. 3. “Stranger Things” Seasons One, Two and Three (2016-present) All three seasons are available to stream for this Netflix original series. The first season starts off after a young boy disappears, and follows his mother, a police chief and his friends as they confront terrifying supernatural forces in order to get him back. Huluween 1. “The Evil Dead” (1981) and “Evil Dead 2” (1987) “The Evil Dead” is the film series that made Sam Raimi famous and opened the door to horror films not taking themselves too seriously. The first film follows Ash (Bruce Campbell) and his friends as they travel to a remote cabin and accidentally release flesh-eating demons. The second film follows Ash again but this time he’s with a group of strangers in a different cabin with a more humorous take.
GRAPHICS BY ANNALISA BARANOWSKI
2. “Child’s Play” (1988) Most of us are already familiar with Chucky, the homicidal doll that’s possessed by a serial killer, but did you know that the majority of the filming took place here in Lakeview, right here in Chicago? Pretty creepy when it becomes more local. 3. “Saw” (2004) Forget about all seven sequels that followed the first film, because none of them live up to the shock and awe of the original. Two strangers wake up in a room with no memory of how they got there and soon figure out that they are part of a deadly game being played out by a serial killer named Jigsaw. For those looking for something on the lighter side both Netflix and Hulu have sub-categories under their Halloween sections that offer horror spoofs and comedies. Hulu also has a designated family-friendly Halloween section. Horror & Comedy recommendations: Netflix: “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil” (2010), “Scary Movie 2” (2001) Hulu: “What We Do in the Shadows” Season One (2019), “The Monster Squad” (1987)
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 19
The future of fright Halloween means horror movies. Where do they stand in 2019? By Luke Murphy Contributing Writer
Nothing screams Halloween like a scary movie. From “Frankenstein” to “The Shining” to “A Nightmare on Elm Street” to “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” Halloween is every horror fan’s favorite time of the year. For many fans of the genre, horror has entered a new golden age. Movies like Jordan Peele’s “Get Out,” Ari Aster’s “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” and Robert Eggers’ “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse,” are some of the most exciting films released in the last few years and they fit under the horror genre. However, for other longtime horror fans, this latest string of horror movies, while enjoyable, is nothing they haven’t seen before. “Horror has always been part of cinema, since its origin, and it was borrowed from gothic literature, and other stories even before that,” said Matt Quinn, a film professor at DePaul and a self-professed lover of scary movies. “And so, I think it’s just a trend, just like every other genre goes through trends. So, it’s not like horror was always this lowbrow genre and then Jordan Peele made ‘Get Out’ and now it’s highbrow. It’s always had ebbs and flows and there’s always been movies that have kind of been more thoughtful versions of what a horror movie could potentially be and then also, the lower end, kind of slasher Roger Corman kind of stuff.” Quinn was not alone in his assessment. In fact, every professor The DePaulia spoke to use the word “cycles” when describing the way horror movies have evolved through the years. For Eric Marsh, who teaches film history at DePaul, the issue hasn’t been that horror movies weren’t serious in the past, but that they haven’t been taken seriously. “There will be moments where there is a lot of artistic horror films, or a moment where there is a lot of political or slasher films, or monster films, or in my lifetime, Stephen King films, stuff like that,” Marsh said. “So, I think it is sort of always ebbing and flowing. Because certainly old horror movies, a lot of them were political. A lot of
them were tapping into the anxieties of society and stuff like that. So, I think it is unfair to say they weren’t serious, but I think it’s fair to say they weren’t treated seriously by a lot of people. It’s amazing, I teach film history and just to go through all that stuff where, I think a lot of people expect the past to be unsophisticated in a certain way and it turns out that it’s not.” In today’s age of cinema, no director is making horror movies that are anticipated on the scale of Jordan Peele. The sketch comedian, who rose to prominence largely on the back of his Comedy Central series “Key and Peele,” has recently made a dramatic shift in his career. His two feature-length films “Get Out” (2017) and “Us” (2019) have inspired discussion and excitement like few films, regardless of genre, have in recent memory. However, for longtime horror fans like DePaul film professor Andrew Stasiulis, Peele’s films, while fun, are not as revolutionary as many people believe. “I thought that they [Jordan Peele’s first two films] were alright,” Stasiulis said. “I mean, I don’t think that I was as impressed with ‘Get Out’ as a lot of other people were, and I liked ‘Get Out’ more than I liked ‘Us.’ ‘Get Out’ was much better than ‘Us.’ I think that he’s a very talented filmmaker and I think that he has a long career ahead of him. But, for me, and maybe it’s simply because I’ve seen so many horror films, and so many of Jordan Peele’s influences are films that I’ve already seen and liked as well, that to me, I didn’t see anything very groundbreaking, at least from a content standpoint. Obviously, I think some of the optics in terms of inclusion in the industry are extremely exciting about Jordan Peele and the films that he is making but just in terms of content pure and simple, I mean I grew up watching ‘The Twilight Zone’ and to me ‘Get Out’ was basically just a long episode of ‘The Twilight Zone.’” Still, just because he wasn’t as impressed by ‘Get Out’ and ‘Us’ as your average moviegoer, does not mean Stasiulis and others with a long, devoted interest in the genre are not consistently excited by the horror films being released today. For Stasiulis, this scary movie season, he encourages fans of the genre to look around for their horror
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Dani Ardor, played by Florence Pugh in “Midsommar,” is finally the May queen.
PHOTO FROM IMDB
The Wilson family in “Us” cowers in fear as their dopplegangers attempt to break in. films, in hopes of finding a hidden gem. “To me, oftentimes I think that horror right now is best found on the margins,” Stasiulis said. “I think in the history of horror films it’s things that don’t necessarily come from mainstream studios, it’s things that come out of left field, it’s things that we are not prepared for that scare us. Especially with independent films and foreign films, I think that they’re able to explore a lot of territory that more mainstream films just aren’t willing to do.” “I would just say to people, it is one of
the most enduring genres in the history of cinema and arguably more popular than ever before,” Stasiulis continued. “So really out there on all of the streaming services you’re going to find so many horror films that didn’t even necessarily get a big, wide release. And I think it’s just sort of like, get out there, explore, take a chance on things that you might not have heard of, or might not have gotten major theatrical releases. Honestly, it isn’t hard to find great horror films out there today. One merely needs to look and they’ll find something.”
Local ghost tour explores city’s haunted sites By Cailey Gleeson Focus Editor
It’s been almost 20 years since the first Chicago Hauntings “ghost bus” took to the streets, but the signs of paranormal activity haven’t slowed down in the slightest. Ursula Bielski and her team of paranormal investigators run these weekly tours, with Anthony Szabelski taking the lead on the Oct. 12 event. Even if you don’t believe in the paranormal, this tour was the perfect way to spend a fall night. Before the tour began, I did my own “investigation” of The Congress Plaza Hotel, since I got there nearly an hour early. An uneasy feeling overcame me as soon as I stepped inside, but the feeling on the 12th floor, which is reportedly the most haunted, was almost suffocating. On the way to the first stop, the Biograph Theatre, Szabelski talked about his experiences inside The Congress Plaza,
including the time he saw a fellow investigator’s doppelgänger walking around on— you guessed it—the 12th floor. Once at the Biograph, Szabelski led guests into the alley where notorious gangster John Dillinger was killed in 1934. Photos of Dillinger were propped up on the window of the restaurant next door, only adding to the chilling tale of his death. Continuing down a mobster-rabbit hole of paranormal activity, the next stop on the tour was the site of the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. “The city refuses to allow anything to be built here,” Szabelski said. “It’s like they wiped the location off the map as if it never existed.” Even though the area where the garage once stood is now an empty lot, an uneasy feeling remained in the air, especially when Szabelski said the men were killed almost directly next to where some guests were standing.
Continuing to Lincoln Park, guests were taken to the Couch Tomb, a lone mausoleum standing in what used to be one of the city cemeteries. At this site, EMF detectors—devices that measure electromagnetic fields—were passed out so guests could see if they got any abnormal readings around the tomb. Unfortunately, my device did not capture anything, but some others reported spikes in readings around the back of the tomb. The Nederlander Theatre was next up. Szabelski explained the tragedy in which 602 people lost their lives in a fire at the “fireproof theatre,” and as the bus cruised down Michigan Avenue, the juxtaposition of the city’s haunted history to its modern look was more apparent than ever. Once in the alley behind the theatre, more equipment was passed out, this time dousing rods, which are used to contact spirits by asking yes-or-no questions and seeing if the rods will cross. My rods
crossed several times and I felt somewhat of a presence around me, but the feeling went as quickly as it came. More tragedy was explored on the way to the last stop, as the bus passed the spot on the river where the Eastland Disaster — the SS Eastland rolled over and killed 844 people — took place. Szabelski said some reports of seeing apparitions drowning in the river have been so vivid that the police have been called, only to find no one in the water. The Hull House was the last stop, and by far the most unsettling. You could just feel someone—or something—looking back at you as you looked in the windows. It didn’t help that Szabelski mentioned previous guests have reported spirits following them home from this location. Thankfully, I left unscathed and with a newfound sense of appreciation for the city’s history, but I don’t think I’ll ever forget how unnerving it felt inside The Congress Plaza Hotel.
20| Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Monster Mash Looking back at Hollywood’s best monster movies GRAPHICS BY GINA RICARDS
By Joe Roman Jr. Contributing Writer
Universal Studios is more than just an amusement park in California and Florida. To this day, it is still a working film studio. They have produced some of Hollywood’s greatest films, including some that are perfect for the spooky season. What better time to kick back with popcorn and a few jump scares than during October? What many people might have forgotten is that Universal Studios made its name back in the 1930s with their monster movies. Based on the works of Bram Stoker and Mary Shelly, Universal Studios created some of the most memorable horror films of all time. Ryan Oestreich, the general manager of the Music Box Theater inLakeview, said his favorite movie is “Dracula,” which Universal Studios produced. “The original Dracula,” he said. “Tod Browning is an excellent filmmaker, and more people need to go back and watch his films. Also, Bela is one of the best Draculas to ever grace the silver screen.” The Music Box showed Universal monster movies in 2018, Oestreich said. “We did a Universal Horror series back in October of 2018,” he said. “We partnered with DePaul who put a film class around it and provided some intros and a talk backs for every film. People came out and really enjoyed the programs, [which] makes me think we should play some more soon.” The Universal monsters have aged well as time went on. Thanks to the local television show Svengoolie, the monsters can be shown to a local audience. Also, with advancements in technology, the monster movies have been remastered in HD and can be purchased on Blu-Ray. Besides being remastered some of the classic monsters have been given the remake/reboot treatment. In the late ‘90s, “The Mummy” was remade and spawned two sequels and a spinoff series. There has also been a remake of “The Wolf Man” in 2010 and a Dracula origin film in 2014. There was an announcement of a reboot of the entire monster legacy. As reported by IGN in 2017, Universal Studios planned to reboot the classic monster films and create the Dark Universe. It would kick off with a second reboot of “The Mummy.” Several other films were announced, including a “Bride of Frankenstein” remake and “The Invisible Man,” with actors like Johnny Depp and Javier Bardem. After “The Mummy” failed
at the box office. the Dark Universe plan was scrapped. Blumhouse Productions, known for “The Conjuring” and “Insidious” franchises, partnered with Universal Studios to produce a remake of “The Invisible Man,” set to be released in 2020. The film will star Elisabeth Moss from “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Here are a few of the best monster movies from Universal Studios. 5. Dracula This film loosely based on Bram Stoker’s book makes the list due to its cast and the set design. There is something mesmerizing about watching Renfield slowly walk towards the castle entrance that is buried amongst cobwebs. Bela Lugosi is also a legend for his role as the Count himself. He was not the first choice as the lead, but after frontman Lon Chaney died, Lugosi was given his chance. Lugosi would also make Dracula by only playing the character in one other film. There is also a huge debate that the Spanish version of Dracula is better than the English one. 4. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein This is a very special entry on this list. It is the only horror comedy on the list. This is also the only other film Bela Lugosi played Dracula in. What makes this film so special is how it can be related to an Avengers film. The Avengers consist of multiple Marvel superheroes, and this movie had multiple monsters. Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster and the Wolf Man all give Abbott and Costello enough scares to give the audience enough laughs. Also, horror icon Vincent Price makes a cameo as the Invisible Man. 3. The Creature from the Black Lagoon “Creature” is one of the most recognizable Universal Monsters, but hasn’t received as much love as its predecessors. “Creature” was made towards the end of the monster craze in cinema, but before the wave of giant creature movies. Another aspect that made “Creature” special is that it is the only 3-D Universal Monster movie. The film also used two different actors to play the creature, one on land and the other in water. Some of the underwater scenes are visually beautiful and hold up to today’s standards. “Creature” is also the only monster to have a trilogy, and although nothing has been announced, filmmaker and rock legend Rob Zombie has been rumored to tackle a remake of “Creature.” 2. The Wolf Man
What makes “The Wolf Man” the runner up is how well the movie has aged. It can be watched at any time and still captivate an audience. There is also something special about the man behind the monster, Lon Chaney Jr. His father was a legend in horror, having played the Phantom of the Opera and creating his own makeup for his characters. Lon Chaney Sr. did not want his son to go into acting, and you get a sense that Jr. is trying to make his father proud in this role. It is also beautifully shot with some great set designs. One set in particular that stands out is the marsh where the Wolf Man lurks for his next victim. 1. Frankenstein/Bride of Frankenstein. These two films are James Whale’s greatest achievements. Everything about these two films is amazing, from the acting by Boris Karloff as the monster and Colin Clive as the doctor. One of the reasons why these two are tired for number one is
the set design, especially the laboratories. All the lights and gadgets and gizmos light up any screen they appear on. There is also something special about how the identity of the monster and his bride are kept secret until the end. Author Ray Bradbury said in a documentary about the Universal monster movies, “The first time I saw Frankenstein I hid under the seat.” There is something eerie seeing Karloff in the makeup as the monster, and even though it was green, the black and white film make it look horrifying. If you want to create your own top five of these movies, they are easily available online and sold on Amazon. Or check out a resale shop like Reckless Records. Either way, gather up some friends this Halloween and watch some of the most celebrated films of all time, and witness what is arguably the first cinematic universe: Universal Monsters.
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Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 21
Things fall apart Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story” excels in realism, actors’ performances
CIFF volunteer experience positive for film students, cinephiles alike By Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Nicole Barber, played by Scarlett Johansson, holds back tears in bed with her husband, Charlie (Adam Driver), and child.
By Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
It is very rare that a film can feel personal and universal at the same time. It’s much rarer that a movie can reach into its viewer and uncover a deep, hidden away memory that holds feelings one has repressed far into themselves. Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story” does that. It challenges the viewer to remember their own past and to assess the raw story with an open mind. “Marriage Story” begins with a pair of notes. Charlie says why he loves his wife, Nicole. He mentions things like how she’s a great dancer, she gives great presents, she’s competitive, she knows when to push him and when to leave him alone. Now, Nicole says what she loves about Charlie. He loves being a dad, almost to an annoying extent, he cries easily in movies, he is very competitive, he is very clear about his desires and he’s a great dresser. All of these things are the sign of a healthy, very deep and loving relationship. But Nicole (Scarlett Johannson) and Charlie (Adam Driver) wrote these notes because they are getting a divorce, and their marriage counselor asked them to write them and read them to each other. Yet Nicole refuses, and Charlie is reluctant to listen. While Charlie wants to read his, Nicole would rather leave the session altogether than listen. How two people who can talk so affectionately about each other, yet not be able to let the other one listen, is part of
the heartbreaking collapse of a relationship that writer-director Noah Baumbach portrays onscreen. Baumbach is a writer at the top of his game, a man who writes movies that tackle complex issues like depression, divorce and aimlessness, while adding a charm or dark humor that proves his empathetic nature. Nicole is an actress and Charlie is a director. Charlie has run a theater company in New York for years now. Their son, Henry, is eight years old and still a momma’s boy. Charlie is an up-andcoming director with an acclaimed mind and ability to create beautiful plays. His upcoming play, which stars Nicole, is on its way to Broadway. Nicole is most famous for a raunchy teen comedy she made when she was younger, and she made a name for herself in Los Angeles. Yet she remains in New York with her husband, starring in his plays. There is a force driven between them. They are two artists starving for greatness, just in different ways. Charlie’s controlling behavior becomes too grating for Nicole, and she is sick of being in his shadow career-wise. Charlie is dedicated to his work. All the money he and Nicole make is put back into his company. When they begin to separate, Nicole moves to Los Angeles to star in a TV show, and she brings Henry with her. Charlie’s play has to move on without her, and so does his life. He wishes to remain in New York, but would rather be with Henry. What happens next is a tale of two cities, as the ex-couple moves forward in a divorce that tumbles into a hasty dogfight that neither of them really wants.
Johannson and Driver each offer excellent performances. The two each get ample time to shine in scenes where they confront the demons of their characters. Monologues galore, and Driver even gets to sing a song! The two put on performances that will leave marks on their two already wonderful careers. Longtime Pixar composer Randy Newman orchestrated a score that is full of a heartbreaking child-like innocence that rings in with every scene. His music isn’t overbearing, it’s tender and provides a feeling of longing in the audience. His score is a part of the movie that shakes every sentimental bone in one’s body. The supporting performances in the film are incredible. Ray Liotta and Laura Dern are the feisty and gruesome divorce attorneys that are extensions of the small distaste that Charlie and Nicole have for one another. Their addition to the movie is in their abilities to depict the ugly part of a separation. They throw things at each other that Nicole and Charlie don’t want to. Everything is uncovered, for better or for worse. A tale of two attractive, talented artists with dreamy eyes, who separate due to different career paths isn’t some new idea. Yet “Marriage Story” basks in reality. The custody battle over Henry gets dirtier than what Charlie or Nicole could have ever wanted. Baumbach’s ability to create this story and have it come off so naturally and real is impressive and indicative of an artist on top of his game. It’s the simple things like a hug goodbye that stick so deep.
During the Chicago International Film Festival, there are lots of big-picture things set far ahead. Running a large festival like the one in Chicago, which concluded its 55th rendition of the fest on Sunday night, takes dedicated people planning it out for months. Yet on the ground floor, small things like ripping tickets, moving lines and quickly sweeping theaters fall on the teams of volunteers the festival accepts every year. I had the privilege of volunteering at the Chicago International Film Festival this year and got to be a small part of the fest. I have always been into film, especially the festival season and all the movies that come out of it. Usually, every year my favorite movies make their debuts at festivals, and the hype surrounding them kept me wanting to go to a festival. It was hard to access at first, but now, as a first-year student at DePaul, I live only a few Red Line stops from AMC River East, where the fest is held. I had heard about the volunteering opportunity while I was on the fest’s website last year when I was trying to figure out what they were showing. My friend and I signed up just to be a part of the festival, even if it was a small role. As DePaul students, we were not alone. Most of the volunteers came from DePaul or Columbia College Chicago. “[There’s] a lot of outreach to film students, who always make for great volunteers,” Volunteer Manager Orli Spierer said. The outreach for volunteers starts in the two big film schools in the city, where representatives like Spierer from the festival come to recruit eager students. DePaul and Columbia are both sponsors of the 55th annual festival, and students at both schools can use the volunteer experience to network and connect with other film students. But I am not a film student, so networking wasn’t what drew me to becoming a volunteer. Instead, I just wanted to be around films. Film festivals are not only a stepping stone for awards; in fact, most of the movies played at festivals don’t see the Oscars. They are smaller, ambitious films that continue to dive into a variety of complex themes. Movies that test audiences and find deep connections with those who get to see them are what drive festivals. My experience as a volunteer was very positive. Of course, things get pretty busy, with lots of movies selling out and theaters worth of people swarming around. There is a lot of downtime, but volunteers help the entire event run well. “We couldn’t do it without our volunteers,” said Allie Lennox, an assistant volunteer coordinator and former volunteer. “They make everything run more smoothly, they also keep our patrons happy and they keep us happy.” There are a lot of people who want to be around festivals as well. There were 600 people who signed up to be volunteers this year – 200 more than the year before. The volunteer experience is one that any film fan should go for, no matter if they are a student or not.
22 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
Focus on family Trey Edward Shults’ “Waves” digs into how turmoil affects relationships
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Katherine, Ronald, Tyler and Emily — four of the main characters ithat “Waves” follows — sit across from eachother in a diner.
By John Cotter Staff Writer
Some stories feel so contemporarily fitting — at the right time, experienced in the right place — that they transcend through the screen and invite you to be a part of the story, as tragic as it may be. Such is the case for the new A24 film “Waves,” directed by Trey Edward Shults and starring Taylor Russell, Alexa Demie, Kelvin Harrison Jr. and Lucas Hedges. The unconventional tale follows a suburban African-American family amidst unrelenting turmoil and how their relationships are affected by circumstantial tragedy. Shults has a seamless relationship with his camera, utilizing film language in the most subtly effective ways, causing an unsettling and uncanny sensation, where we feel like we are peering into one’s life, uninvited. This tension is one that Shults is keenly aware of, as I got the chance to talk to him, as well as Russell (Emily) and Harrison Jr. (Tyler), who discussed portraying troubled and complex characters, how they balanced the tension during scenes and on set, and more about this subjectively introspective story. One of the film’s clearest of messages is that we are all inherently problematic people, with our own self-interests and deep-rooted feelings taking control of our demeanor at one time or another. I asked Harrison Jr. about his representation of Tyler in the film, a character who falls prey to the stressors dominating his life.
“I was examining my own life, taking a step back,” Harrison Jr. said. “When Trey and I had started working on the movie, it was about finding the nuances of fitting into this character. Understanding the generation gap between my character and his father. For me, it was therapeutic. Who was I in that moment? What did I want from my dad? What did I want from myself, for myself? It’s the contradictions that make these characters interesting.” One of the film’s archetypal antagonists is the omnipresent temptation of social media, especially during depressive episodes as seen in the film. These social media trappings are something that are experienced often in real life, but not outwardly discussed or admitted, as it is something people aren’t quick to compare with “stalking,” which is what scrolling through someone’s Instagram essentially is. The cast reflected on this aspect from the film in their own lives, with Shults admitting that he doesn’t have social media, but Russell describing how she just recently returned from a one-year hiatus on Instagram, and how she can now see the inherent issues with social media now that she has distanced herself. “I was looking at models Instagram’s and not eating for two days, doing crazy stuff,” she said. “It’s hard to not compare yourself to these seemingly perfect people. It allows you to become more of a follower than being active in your life. You need objectivity in your life.” Shults’ two previous feature film, “Krisha” and “It Comes at Night,” explore the motif of the home, and all the secrets that can lie within a place that looks so
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Tyler (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Alexis (Alexa Demie) embrace. normal on the outside. This motif, coupled with the film’s perpetual tension, make for an almost combative experience for the audience, resulting in some of the most gripping scenes of the year. I asked the director and cast about how they balanced this tension on set within the scene, while still having a comfortable and warm environment. “A lot of it is being prepared and doing your research,” Russell said. “Knowing the instruments, the body and script, so well that you go to set feeling that you can do anything and you’re free to do so, coupled with Trey being a great director and creating a non-judgmental, inviting, and free space.” Shults curated this set, this environment, reflecting on the experiences he
had during these emotional shoots. “I feel like we are all preparing so much that it becomes a second skin,” he said. “When you have trust on top of that, and you’re making things in a trusting environment, you can play and have fun doing this crazy stuff. When I think back on these difficult scenes, I just think of it as the best summer of my life!” To be able to discuss this incredibly subjective and sorrowful story with the people who built it was a wonderfully subjective deep dive into the pure applicability of a story that can be experienced in so many different ways for so many different people. “Waves” will be released in theaters on November 15.
what’s FRESH
Haunted
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 23
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Netflix’s “Haunted” remains consistently scary throughout its six-episode run. Each episode begins with an individual explaining their paranormal experiences in a dimly lit, gothic-style living room to loved ones. The emotion is so raw, from the narrator and listeners, you can’t help but feel bad for what they’ve endured, even if you’re a skeptic. Sprinkled throughout the emotional narration are scenes that depict the encounters, which are high in not only production value, but are also genuinely scary. Each tale has its own unique component that makes it so frightening. “The Mimic” features a grotesque creature, while a stereotypical young girl in braids that’s actually a demon terrorizes the woman in “Spirits From Below.” Humans are the evil entities in “Cult of Torture,” which details the abuse endured by a man in a gay conversion program.
CAILEY GLEESON | THE DEPAULIA
Rattlesnake
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Netflix’s “Rattlesnake” shows how far someone will go to save a loved one, even if that means taking a life. Katrina (Carmen Ejogo), a single mom, and her daughter Clara (Apollonia Pratt) head on a road trip through Texas, but when their car breaks down and Clara is bit by a rattlesnake in the desert, Katrina rushes Clara into an RV where a woman cures her of the deadly bite— but not without a price. She later finds out that the terms of Clara’s rescue will require a life to be given for Clara’s. What starts out as a fast-paced thriller, begins to slow down as time winds down. The movie was filled with a lot of imagery, which took away from the performances of the characters. It was easy to understand what they were trying to achieve, but it kept the movie feeling a little flatlined. Nonetheless, it kept us hopeful until the end. ELLA LEE & KEIRA WINGATE | THE DEPAULIA
24 | Arts &Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019
St.Vincent’s D e JAMZ “Spinning fresh beats since 1581” By Emma Oxnevad
nailed it on the first take, making any re-recordings entirely unnecessary. Her power. 2. “The Power of Love” Huey Lewis & The News (Back to the Future) I have never seen “Back to the Future” all the way through. But this song is an absolute jam. If I were a young adult in the 1980s, I would probably bump this tune while discussing the tenuous relationship between Reagan and Gorbachev. This song sounds exactly like the decade in which it was released and I’m here for it. 3. “Streets of Philadelphia” Bruce Springsteen (Philadelphia) This song won Springsteen his Oscar, and that alone solidifies its place on the list. This song is not designed for repeat listens, given the somber subject matter, but it is absolutely gorgeous every time. Springsteen speaks to the experience of the AIDS
Opinions Editor
I was one week early to the spooky section, but what’s done is done. In honor of the Chicago International Film Festival, I’m sharing some of my favorite songs from movies. This list is probably going to include some obvious favorites, but these songs are still jams. 1. “My Heart Will Go On” Celine Dion (Titanic) Maybe if I was in college in 1997, I would probably hate this song and the film in which it’s featured, Titanic. However, both are classics and I will see no hatred of either in this paper. I often find myself listening to this song while doing mundane tasks like grocery shopping or doing laundry. Did you know that the official version of this track is actually a demo? Celine Dion
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crisis without sounding preachy or like he’s talking down to his audience, a very thin tightrope. 4. “Footloose” Kenny Loggins (Footloose) Since I’ve included it on a previous list, I sadly cannot include the classic disgruntled workers anthem “9 to 5.” For this list, its poor cousin will do. All jokes aside, this song is fun and upbeat, capturing the feeling of finally being free of your daily responsibilities. I can’t dance, but for this song, I’ll pretend. 5. “Call Me” Blondie (American Gigolo) I’ve never seen “American Gigolo,” but I know this song very well. One of Blondie’s biggest hits, this song is a power anthem. I’m not very cool, but this song makes me feel badass every time I listen to it. However, it does make me more inclined
ACROSS 1. Hit the slopes 4. “Agreed!” 8. Get ready for a trip 12. Archer’s skill 13. Arm bone 14. Strong team 15. Econ. indicator 16. Canoeing challenge 17. Conga formation 18. More fit 20. “Beau ___” 21. Almost unique 23. Studio stock 25. End of a bridal path 27. Like a bairn 28. Grammy category 31. Binaural 33. ___ Beach, Calif. 35. Okra, essentially 36. Put to the test 38. Drew in mysteries 39. Kind of sprawl 41. Boardwalk treats 42. Greek thinker 45. Goodness 47. Cheerful tune 48. Cognizant of 49. Artificial conception 52. Crowning point 53. Chic or cheeky 54. It’s nothing, really 55. Accessible 56. Arborist’s concern 57. Brewer of golf
to be in the move in which it’s featured, as I’d rather go blind than see Jon Voight play a sex worker.
DOWN 1. Bed problem 2. Clan members 3. Made known 4. Face-off 5. Experienced one 6. First name of two U.S. presidents 7. Act like a chicken? 8. Explorers’ destinations 9. Allies opponent 10. Small change 11. On bended ___ 19. Den denizen 20. Collect slowly 21. Blacksmith’s implement 22. Choral voice 24. Grig, when grown 26. Back in? 28. Boxing 29. “___ bitten, twice shy” 30. Picks up the check 32. An eye for the poetic? 34. Canter, for example 37. It’s a bore 39. Complete 40. ___ Dame 42. Blueprint 43. Some parasites 44. Soprano Gluck 46. Classroom drilling 48. Make a choice 50. By way of 51. Wing it? © Lovatts Puzzles
Sports
Sports. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 25
Freshman forward proves to add immediate value By Nate Burleyson Asst. Sports Editor
Rarely does a new player make a smooth transition into a starting lineup, and even more rarely does a new player become an integral part of a team’s offense. Through her unique skillset, freshman forward Kristin Boos has elevated the women’s soccer team to a new level. Boos has started in 15 games and has scored three goals and three assists. She has been a key player in the offense of the Blue Demons, who are 7-6-3 on the season while winning four of their last six games. The team sits in fourth place in the Big East and are poised to make the Big East tournament for an eighth straight year. Part of that success comes from the offense that pours on shots. This season, DePaul has out-shot its opponents 202-145, with 101 of those shots coming on goal. Boos leads the Blue Demons in shots this year with 54. Her offensive production goes far beyond the box score though, her pace and game sense are what takes her to another level with the team. “She is unbelievable,” head coach Erin Chastain said. “As a young woman and as a soccer player. She has a wonderful soccer IQ her work rate is incredible.” Boos has been able to give opponents fits no matter the score. When given space, she can be dangerous around the box. A goal against Butler on Oct. 3 was a highlight play that shows her skills on offense. She received a pass at the top of the box, turned, and fired a screamer that curved into the top right of the goal past the Butler goalkeeper’s maximum reach. Her refined on-field skill is unique for a freshman player. Chastain has been able to use her versatile skill set as a part of her system. “I think she holds the ball really well so she’s a nice outlet for us when we are trying to get out, she lets us get
numbers forward,” Chastain said. “I think she is able to beat people off the dribble, I think she’s able to shoot from range. And I think she’s able to combine really nicely.” A Michigan native, Boos played for United FC near her hometown of Sterling Heights. She played soccer, along with her five other siblings, under the watch of her soccer coach father. Through high school, Boos grew her game as a player before choosing DePaul. DePaul offered her a D1 program in the Midwest that felt warm to her. “The intimate culture and our staff have been amazing,” Boos said. “The girls were totally welcoming and that’s what really helped me make my decision to come here.” Prior to arriving at DePaul, Boos was dealing with a long-time injury. The injury was able to teach her a great deal of perseverance. “I think injuries happen to the best of us,” Boos said. “It’s something that you have to get over mentally. Physically, it happens and you have to deal with it.” It hasn’t had any effect on her game this year though. “She’s coming off a very long-term injury where she was out for an extended period,” Chastain said. “To see her still playing at this level and causing problems for teams is awesome.” Her experience as a freshman has been clearly positive on the field, but that’s partially owed to the environment in the locker room and in Lincoln Park. “I’ve had the time of my life so far,” Boos said. This team, this environment, and the culture have been amazing. I love every single minute I can be out here. It’s crazy that I am wrapping up my freshman year and hopefully I can just continue to grow into this program.” Boos has made an impression on the team as a whole. Chastain spoke to her character and growth as she has a few months as a
JONATHAN AGUILAR | THE DEPAULIA
Kristin Boos defends the ball against a Georgetown defender in a game on Oct. 24 in a contest at Wish Field. Boos has three goals and three assists on the season. Blue Demon under her belt. “I think it’s rare that you see a freshman come into a program and really see them have some leadership,” Chastain said. She has a nice presence and leadership. She’s always the
SOCCER, continued from back page recently their offense has come alive to help carry the load for the Blue Demons. In their last game prior to facing Georgetown, DePaul’s attack obliterated a winless Seton Hall – scoring four goals in 23 minutes. “Hopefully it will continue to build and the momentum will keep going through Xaiver and then Marquette in the end,” Boos said. DePaul only has two games remaining this season. A contest at Xavier on Sunday afternoon and a home game against Marquette on Oct. 31, so picking up these three points were crucial for multiple reasons. Before their win, DePaul sat in a fourway tie for fourth in the conference with 10 points, but due to tiebreakers, the Blue Demons were on the outside looking in for a playoff spot. After their victory and a couple teams ahead of them dropping points, DePaul heads into the final week of the season in a prime position to make their eighthstraight Big East Tournament appearance. Yet this was not the first big win that the Blue Demons got over a top ranked team. Earlier this season, the team traveled to west Lafayette, Indiana and faced off against Kansas University who at the time was ranked No. 11 in the country on Sept. 6.
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Sophomore midfielder Brooke Weitzel kicks the ball downfield in the 1-0 win over Georgetown on Thursday at Wish Field. The Blue Demons were still learning about themselves and how their team was going to work at that point, but the win proved to them that they have what it takes to slay giants.
“We proved to ourselves that we play as a team,” senior midfielder Jade Eriksen-Russo said back in September. “And I think from that point forward we are just going to continue to grow on
first to be excited for someone else and her energy is contagious.”
that.” The win against Kansas was a gritty 1-0 grind out game where the defense exceled and the offense was able to capitalize on an opportunity. Which has been the story for a lot of the season. The defense has only allowed 15 goals in 16 games this season, while the offense has found the back of the net in 11 of those 16 games. Overall, the women’s soccer team has had a season full of potential. They are about to make the Big East tournament yet again. The squad has been in the conference tournament perennially. “We are not only here to compete against these teams but to win,” EriksenRusso said. Through 16 games, the team is 7-6-3 and has defended their home field very well, going 4-0 in conference games held at Wish Field. The team is going into their Halloween match-up with rival Marquette on a hot streak, and with a win against conference favorite Georgetown, DePaul is primed for a shot at the conference championship and an NCAA tournament berth.
26 | Sports. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 STRUS, continued from front page is particularly compelling to high school recruits, including those entering college with much more fanfare than Strus had. “Max didn’t start off in Division I … he comes from a Division II school, so he had to be a really hard-working player to go to the NBA,” Weems said. “He couldn’t have done that by himself and that was a big part of my recruitment because they flipped this Division II player — he was a great player, don’t get me wrong — but they flipped this Division II player into an NBA prospect, and he’s in the NBA making money now so I look at him as motivation for myself. And I feel like I’ve got a step ahead of him because I’ve gotten more exposure.” Most recently, 2016 graduate Myke Henry and 2017 graduate Billy Garrett Jr. briefly found their way onto an NBA floor, but they both did it the hard way, fighting for spots on G-League rosters before earning playing time in a handful of regular season NBA games with the Memphis Grizzlies and the New York Knicks, respectively. The last Blue Demon draft pick came in 2007 when former Dave Leitao recruit Wilson Chandler was selected in the first round by the New York Knicks, making him the only former DePaul player to have a full-time spot on an NBA roster since 2000 draft pick Quentin Richardson retired in 2013. Lenti Ponsetto said DePaul had received a lot of “positive distinction” as a result of producing an NBA talent like Chandler, but as the veteran pro is playing out the back-half of his NBA career, the connection between DePaul men’s basketball program and the NBA is growing thin. Of the three DePaul players in the G-League, Strus seems to have the best chance to make a splash on one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. And that’s not a surprise to the people who played a role in his development. Even before he arrived on the Division I scene, his Division II coach at Lewis didn’t see any limits to Strus’s potential. Scott Trost, who coached Strus and his older brother Marty on the men’s basketball team at Lewis, said Strus had a clear vision of what he needed to do to improve his chances of making a career on the basketball court. “Max works extremely hard, so I would never put anything past Max,” Trost said. “I think that’s one of his greatest strengths — people have been doubting Max for a long time and I think he uses that as motivation.” After his sophomore season that featured a trip to the Division II NCAA tournament for the 2015-16 Lewis squad, Strus asked his hometown program to
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Max Strus lines up a free-throw attempt on March 3 against St. John’s. Strus led the Blue Demons with 43 points en route to a 92-83 victory on senior day at Wintrust Arena. let him transfer in with the hope that a Big East, ACC or Big 10 program would give him more exposure. And he found a perfect fit in Lincoln Park. “When we knew he was leaving [Lewis] we obviously went after him really hard,” Head Coach Dave Leitao said. “In the recruiting process, he said one of the reasons he was leaving Lewis was because he wanted an opportunity to play basketball after college. We brought him back to the office after a week or so and said ‘you got to realign your goals because, not only do you have an opportunity to play basketball after college, you can play at the highest level.’ His personality, his work ethic, his drive really stated that, so the fact that it is in the process of becoming true is really a testament to how much focus he’s had and how hard he has worked.” Trost only coached Strus as an underclassman where his leadership role was overshadowed by upperclassmen, but said he played an invaluable role in leading by example and putting his team first, which he also demonstrated at DePaul. “First one in the gym, last one to leave — always trying to get some extra work in, going to class, being on time. You never
“First one in the gym, last one to leave — always trying to get some extra work in, going to class, being on time. You never had to worry about Max.” Scott Trost
Lewis University head coach had to worry about Max,” Trost said. “He always did the right thing on and off the court… He was a leader, but I think he led more by example than as a vocal leader when he was [at Lewis] as a freshman and sophomore … The team is the most important thing to him. He wants to do everything he can to help the team win and he was happy if the team won and he scored six points and he was happy if the team won and he scored 52 points. As an upperclassman at DePaul, Strus was “the guy,” and the whole team looked to him as a leader in his play and his offcourt support of his teammates. In press
conferences after close losses, Strus was often critical of his own performance despite that fact that he usually provided the bulk of the team’s offensive production. “He showed me what it takes,” junior forward Paul Reed said of his former teammate. “He was always in the gym before me and he was the best on our team. He showed us the way to do it.” Reed said he hopes to see Strus at DePaul games this season and is excited to go out and support him whenever he has games in Chicago.
Sports. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 27 LOSS, continued from back page The conditions on the field were not the best nor conducive to attractive soccer, but both teams had to play in wet turf with the rain showering down on them. “Well, we actually really like it. It speeds the game up and we like to move the ball so we were actually happy that the field was wet,” said Coach Mark Plotkin. “I think we moved around pretty well and created enough chances. We just didn’t put anything away.” Despite the mishap on defense, Coach Plotkin was not going to single out the loss on a defense that has played well all season. “For sure. But our backline’s been fantastic all year long,” he said. “They’re humans. They’re going to make mistakes. We had enough chances on the attacking end that we could have put a couple away so, I mean, I’m proud of our guys. We continue to battle and play and I wish we could have put one or two away so our defense didn’t have to feel that kind of pressure all the time but it’s a team game and we’ll be back and ready for the next one.” As Coach Plotkin said, the team fought and battled to try to come back. “I think it’s tough for all of us,” senior defender Sasa Labovic said. “I wouldn’t say we’re disappointed with the way we played. We fought in rough conditions tonight, cold and wet. It was a difficult game for us but we stick together as a team. We win and lose as a team and we just move on to the next one. We’re not out of the tournament so we’re focusing on St. John’s now with the number two in the country and just focus on beating
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Sophomore Jake Fuderer plays the ball in the second half against Xavier on Saturday, Oct. 26 at Wish Field. The Blue Demons played a rain-soaked match against the Musketeers, falling 1-0 after conceding a goal in the 62nd minute. them.” As De Bruijne mentioned, it was Senior Day so he, alongside Labovic, Joshua Bowser, Zach El-Shafei, and Kyle Smith were recognized prior to the start of the game. After the game, De Bruijne spoke a bit about his time at DePaul. “I’ve had a great time here,” he said.
“Not only here at DePaul but in Chicago. It’s been a blessing and I’m gonna go back home to Amsterdam in a month, which is pretty quick. I would have never changed any of it. It’s kind of emotional night right now, it sucks it’s got to end this way but we’ve got two more games to go so we gotta make that work.”
EXCUSES, continued from back page alone making the NCAA Tournament. Since Leitao has taken over, DePaul is 48-82 overall and 16-56 in the Big East, coupled in with three last-place finishes in the conference and no wins in the Big East Tournament. But with the increase in talent and the way the Blue Demons ended last season, making a run to the CBI championship series, the expectations for this program are higher than they have been in previous years. The Blue Demons have a top-30 recruiting class coming in, with freshmen Romeo Weems and Markese Jacobs headlining the new additions. Junior transfer Charlie Moore bolsters the guard position, and returning juniors Devin Gage, Paul Reed and Jaylen Butz are expected to take their game to another level this season. With talent not being an issue anymore for the men’s basketball team and multiple players experiencing postseason play, there aren’t many remaining questions remaining that in the past have hindered the Blue Demons. All that is left to be solved is whether or not Leitao can coach. Lenti Ponsetto remains one of the few people who keeps backing her coach, but his record on and off the court gives off a different message. This past summer, the NCAA placed DePaul on probation for three years for illegal recruiting activity and suspended Leitao for the first three games of the 2019-2020 season for failing to promote an atmosphere of compliance. While the public was busy making fun of Leitao and his program for numerous reasons, inside the athletic department they were working on defending their coach by announcing they are negotiating a five-year contract extension. On the court, Leitao doesn’t have much to brag about either. His losing
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Men’s basketball coach Dave Leitao at a press conference in March. record is the worst in the conference since 2015 and he has failed to win one Big East Tournament game in four years. When Leitao was hired, he promised to improve the Blue Demons’ defense, which was struggling under the previous coaching regime. “Playing defense is the most controllable asset in sports,” Leitao said when he got hired in 2015. “You don’t need to jump out of a gym, shoot threepointers or be super athletic to play defense. It’s a mindset, and you can bring it every single night. That’s why I love defense.” The defense has been just as atrocious as Leitao’s overall record. Last season, DePaul finished 223rd in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency, per KenPom rankings, and gave up 76.4 points per game — which was secondworst in the Big East. In three of the four
seasons, Leitao has failed to crack the top 100 in adjusted defensive efficiency. Against bad teams last season, the Blue Demons’ defense looked like an elite defense, holding their non-conference opponents to less than 75 points nine times. In the Big East, however, DePaul’s defense gave up 75 or more points on 11 occasions — going 2-9 in those games. With the defense struggling all year, there wasn’t much hope that it would improve at the end of the season, but there was at least an expectation to show some level of competence at the most important point of the season. DePaul went into the final day of the regular season with a great chance to earn a firstround bye in the Big East Tournament. All they had to do was beat Creighton on the road, and they would secure the sixth seed. Last season was the first time in four
DePaul has two more games to go as they try to make the Big East playoffs. The team travels to New York to take on St. John’s before finishing out the regular season at home against Marquette.
seasons that DePaul cracked the top 100 in adjusted offensive efficiency. But against South Florida in game three of the CBI championship series, DePaul’s offense only mustered up 65 points and only shot 32.1 percent from the field. But at the end of the season, Lenti Ponsetto offered to make more excuses as to why Leitao has failed to improve the offense and defense. “I think [considering a coaching change] presumes DePaul has everything in place we need for any Division I program to be successful, and we do not yet,” Lenti Ponsetto said last week. Steve Lavin, a college basketball analyst, had optimism for the Blue Demons this season during Big East Media Day, when he picked them to be a dark horse team this season. “I like DePaul’s frontline,” Lavin said. “You look at Reed and Butz, those are two high-percentage finishers. They didn’t have the most shots last year when you had Strus and company, but I think this year Dave Leitao is going to play through the post, he’s going to attack the paint and he has the experience now with Butz and Reed being juniors. Once you get your roster to a place where you’ve got some NBA players, you got a chance to have special seasons and that’s why I think this will be the most balanced Blue Demons team we’ve seen in decades.” With the roster set, DePaul has talent and depth across each position. But it will only work if the man making the important decisions on the starting lineup, play style and in-game adjustments is smart enough to get the best out of his team. As a new season approaches, Leitao doesn’t seem to be on the hot seat because he and the program are negotiating on a five-year contract extension, but the success of the most talented Blue Demons team in over a decade rides on the shoulders of one man: Dave Leitao.
Sports
Sports. The DePaulia. Oct. 28, 2019 | 28
More talent, fewer excuses for Leitao and men’s basketball By Lawrence Kreymer Sports Editor
COMMENTARY
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The DePaul women’s soccer team celebrate together after Morgan Turner scored two minutes into overtime to beat Georgetown 1-0.
Women’s soccer defeats No. 14 Georgetown By Lawrence Kreymer Sports Editor
DePaul junior forward Morgan Turner scored two minutes into overtime to defeat No. 14 Georgetown at Wish Field on Thursday. The Blue Demons (7-6-3), who have won two consecutive Big East games, have knocked off two ranked team this season with wins against No. 11 Kansas on Sep. 6 and No. 14 Georgetown on Thursday. “It’s down to the end of the conference portion of the season, so we know how important home games are and points in the conference standings,” head coach Erin Chastain said. “So, I think for us it was about coming out, setting the tone, being physical and battling. I thought our girls stayed disciplined and did that.” For 90 minutes, there wasn’t too much to
separate both teams, as each side struggled to create chances throughout the game. After the end of 90 minutes, the two sides combined for nine shots and two shots on goal. But all it took was just two minutes into overtime for the Blue Demons to carve open one chance to take down another ranked team. Freshman Kristin Boos played in a low cross into the box, where her fellow forward teammate Turner got in front of a defender, turned to goal and fired a shot past the goalie. “Kris played me a really great ball across the middle and I was able to get at the end of it,” Turner said. “And I think that a win against this team is just huge for our team and our confidence going forward.” While the offense helped give DePaul all three points, it was the play of their defense that helped extend this game into overtime. Coming into Thursday, Georgetown led the entire Big East with 36 goals, which also
ranked 19th in the country. Against DePaul, however, that high-powered offense was stymied by an aggressive and fearless defense. The Hoyas only managed to get off five shots, and only one of those was on target. “It was incredible,” Turner said on the team’s defensive performance. “I think every single person on this team laid it all on the line, we are ready for a physical game. And, so, our defense played phenomenal, our goalkeeper played phenomenal.” While another win over a ranked team gives DePaul more confidence heading into an important part of their schedule, they have been building momentum to reach this point of the season. In their last five games, the Blue Demons have won three games, scoring eight goals and only conceding three goals. The defense for DePaul has been their strong suit throughout this season, but
See SOCCER, page 25
As DePaul gets ready to begin year five of the Dave Leitao experiment, the time to win has finally arrived. For the first four years of Leitao’s tenure, the Blue Demons have failed to move up in the Big East standings, finishing in last place three years in a row, and changing the narrative that DePaul basketball is a losing program. Leitao has been given every excuse by Athletic Director Jean Lenti Ponsetto about why he deserves more time and why fans need to be patient. But with patience running thin from a decreasing fanbase and pressure growing from the outside to show growth, Leitao finally has the best group of talent to bring DePaul back to relevance in Chicago and in the national landscape. When Leitao returned to DePaul in 2015, Lenti Ponsetto promised fans that the expectation for the team was to win right away, that the Blue Demons are not looking to rebuild. “We don’t see that as a rebuilding project, but an opportunity to take the next step in the process,” Lenti Ponsetto said in 2015. “Our expectation is to win now. We have talent here that needs to be reengineered. It was clear to our search committee that Dave Leitao was our No. 1 choice.” Four years later, the Blue Demons might as well have been rebuilding because they come nowhere close to contending in the Big East — let
See EXCUSES, page 27
Men’s soccer can’t capitalize, falls to Xavier 1-0 at Wish Field By Ernesto Hernandez Contributing Writer
On a rainy, dreary day at Wish Field, DePaul (5-7-3) suffered a blow to their postseason hopes by falling 1-0 to Xavier (6-6-1). The only goal of the day was scored in the second half by Xavier’s Karsen Henderlong following a mistake by DePaul’s Max de Bruijne. The Blue Demons came into this match following a shutout defeat at the hands of Creighton. At home, they had an opportunity to not only get back into the win column but jump a few places in the Big East standings. Unfortunately for Coach Plotkin and his team, that was not the case. The first half was a tight competition, with neither side allowing the other’s offense to get into a rhythm and create opportunities. It was the same story the last time these two teams met when
DePaul notched a 1-0 win. Come the second half, however, Xavier came out firing. They won possession and forced the game to be played on DePaul’s side of the field. But the Blue Demon’s defense hung tough with goalkeeper Drew Nuelle making several difficult saves to keep the game scoreless. But in the 62nd minute, a mistake by senior defenseman Max de Briujne gifted the Musketeers the only goal of the game. A small lapse in concentration was all the opponent needed as De Bruijne was caught unaware of the opposing player who stole the ball and was left one-onone with Nuelle. This time, the DePaul keeper couldn’t keep the shot out. Xavier kept attacking, looking for a second goal to seal the game, but DePaul continued fighting despite being down a goal. Their best chance in the game late in the second half when Youseff Ramadan’s
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Sophomore forward Jake Fuderer takes a breath against Xavier on Saturday. curled shot from just outside the area hit the crossbar. Postgame, De Bruijne made no excuses for the goal. “It was my personal error, which,
on Senior Day sucks a lot,” he said. “I’m happy with how everyone fought today. I’m just kind of disappointed in myself.”
See LOSS, page 27