DePaulia
The
2017 Pacemaker Award Winner
Volume #103 | Issue #6 | Oct. 15, 2018 | depauliaonline.com
Basketball court Lenti Ponsetto, Leitao, DePaul file order of protection against former assistant coach who challenges claims By Benjamin Conboy & Shane Rene Editor-in-Chief & Managing Editor
DePaul University, Athletic Director Jean Lenti Ponsetto and men’s basketball coach Dave Leitao filed for an emergency order of protection from former assistant head coach Rick Carter after he allegedly made threatening comments towards them. Leitao requested the protection order on Sept. 25, citing two separate run-ins with Carter. In June 2017 after Carter became upset over being fired from the men’s basketball coaching staff, Carter allegedly told Leitao he would “physically bury him,” according to documents obtained by The DePaulia. The university has previously said that Carter had resigned, but the court records are saying he was fired. Leitao also requested that the order of protection extend to his wife and high school-aged son. Carter was still “upset over firing and other violations” and continued to ask to meet with Leitao into September, when Carter’s threats ratcheted up, according to the documents. Carter allegedly told Leitao he would “knock on my [Leitao’s] door at home,” according to the court documents. In a Sept. 15 tweet, Carter posted the lyrics to the song “Monster” by Kanye West, which contained the phrases “I smell a massacre” and “seems like the only way to bag you bastards
up.” The phrases were included in the protection order and were perceived by Leitao as threats. Joseph Ponsetto, the husband of Jean Lenti Ponsetto and an attorney at the Law Offices of Peter M. DeLongis, LTD., originally filed the protection order for his wife and at an Oct. 12 court hearing, and he requested that Judge Jeanne Marie Wrenn allow him to represent Leitao instead. Joseph Ponsetto was a member of the DePaul athletic department himself from 1974-78, when he played forward for the men’s basketball
See CARTER, page 26
DePaul assistants Tim Anderson, Shane Heirman named in NCAA trial for paying player in high school By Shane Rene Managing Editor
As the trial surrounding the NCAA’s corruption scandal continues, Brian Bowen Sr., the father of former fivestar recruit Brian Bowen II, made new allegations about DePaul assistant men’s basketball coach Shane Heirman, and now a second DePaul assistant Tim Anderson. Brian Bowen Sr. testified Tuesday that Heirman paid him $8,000 “over a series of months,” to have his son play for La Lumiere High School. He said Heirman, who was the head coach at La Lumiere a t
the time, also paid him $1,400 per month for a condo on the lake. Bowen Sr. also testified that Anderson paid him $1,500 to have his son to play for the Mean Streets AAU program in Chicago, where Anderson was a coach at the time. Bowen Sr. testified last week that he was paid $5,000-$8,000 to have his son play for Mean Streets, but never mentioned Anderson, specifically. Anderson and Heirman were both hired while DePaul was actively pursuing Brian Bowen II and Tyger Campbell, who went to the same high school, but neither coach was employed by DePaul when the alleged payments took place. “DePaul University takes seriously the high standards of conduct expected in our athletics department,” a university spokesperson said in a statement after Bowen Sr.’s testimony. “To date, federal prosecutors have not contacted us about the investigation into college basketball recruiting or statements included in testimony this week in federal court in the Southern District of New York. We will fully cooperate if contacted in the future by federal law enforcement, the Department of Justice or the NCAA.” At Monday’s Chicago college basketball kickoff luncheon, DePaul head coach Dave Leitao briefly addressed last week’s testimony. “I’ve paid very little attention to it,” he said. “Mostly because we’ve been through this before and our recruitment of young men didn’t start last week,
See NCAA, page 27 VICTORIA WILLIAMSON | THE DEPAULIA
Conservative speakers denied visit, event forced off campus By Carina Smith & Emma Oxnevad
News Editor & Asst. News Editor
Two speakers from the conservative advocacy organization Turning Point USA (TPUSA) were scheduled to speak with the DePaul chapter of TPUSA on Oct. 16 as a part of the TPUSA Campus Clash Tour, but the event was prohibited from campus. Representatives from TPUSA and DePaul giving different accounts as to why the event was forced to relocate to the JW Marriott Hotel at 151 W. Adams St. According to an official adendum provided by DePaul TPUSA, DePaul was selected as a tour location in July 2018 for Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens, the group’s founder and director of communications, respectively. The Student Affairs Office and the Events Offices attempted to confirm dates for the event
throughout July and August. The event was cancelled following concerns regarding ticketing and marketing for the event and the potential use of hate speech, according to the decision letter the Office of Student Affairs sent to DePaul’s TPUSA chapter. DePaul TPUSA was made aware of the event’s cancellation in mid-September, and the organization said that they hold no ill will towards DePaul for the decision. “[DePaul’s administration] followed the standard protocol for each and every club, including ours,” said Ema Gavrilovic, vice president of DePaul TPUSA. “There was nothing unfair in the processing or the deadlines or the timelines. I just want to make that clear.” Gavrilovic cites issues regarding communication between TPUSA headquarters and DePaul as one of the primary reasons why the event was canceled.
ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
Charlie Kirk (left) and Candace Owen from Turning Point USA, a conservative advocacy group.
“The primary concern was Turning Point’s headquarters started issuing tickets and advertising for an event that was never originally even confirmed,” Gavrilovic said. “Headquarters was was issuing tickets and advertising the event before the logistics
were confirmed. DePaul later requested that the speech’s EventBrite page be taken down, which they did. However, advertisements for the event were still being distributed by the national
See SPEAKERS, page 5
2 | News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
First Look The DePaulia is the official student-run newspaper of DePaul University and may not necessarily reflect the views of college administrators, faculty or staff. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Benjamin Conboy eic@depauliaonline.com MANAGING EDITOR | Shane René managing@depauliaonline.com NEWS EDITOR | Carina Smith news@depauliaonline.com
Want to see DePaul memes in The DePaulia each week? Email us your best memes and see the Meme of the Week on pg. 12 for student-submitted fire memes.
ASST. NEWS EDITOR | Emma Oxnevad news@depauliaonline.com NATION & WORLD EDITOR | Marin Scott nation@depauliaonline.com OPINIONS EDITOR | Mackenzie Murtaugh opinion@depauliaonline.com FOCUS EDITOR | Yamini Bangarusamy focus@depauliaonline.com ARTS & LIFE EDITOR | Lacey Latch artslife@depauliaonline.com SPORTS EDITOR | Andrew Hattersley sports@depauliaonline.com
DESIGN EDITOR | Annalisa Baranowski design@depauliaonline.com PHOTO EDITOR | Xavier Ortega photo@depauliaonline.com
Check out The DePaulia’s content online at www.depauliaonline.com
THIS WEEK Monday - 10/15 Harry Potter Halloween Courtelyou Commons
Tuesday - 10/16
Wednesday - 10/17
Play-by-Play: An evening with White Sox Announcer Jason Benetti
Jazz Workshop
Lincoln Park Student Center, 120B
6 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
ASST. SPORTS EDITOR | Lawrence Kreymer sports@depauliaonline.com DESIGN EDITOR | Victoria Williamson design@depauliaonline.com
Check out our campus crime database, Crime Watch. This map is updated on a weekly basis with data made available to The DePaulia from the City of Chicago data portal and DePaul’s Office of Crime Prevention.
Thursday - 10/18
Corboy Jazz Hall 7 p.m.
Friday - 10/19
Saturday - 10/120
DePaul After Dark: Comedy Night
Falling
DemonHacks Hackathon
Lincoln Park Student Center Atrium
Theatre School, The Healy Theatre
243 S Wabash Avenue
8 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
9 a.m.
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News
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 3
Safety report shows campus crime statistics stagnating are 27 “sex offenses” listed. This is unlike the next two years, where in 2016, the News Editor report style changed to show the specific The 2018 Safety and Security number of rape, fondling and incest Information Report and Fire Safety instances, as well as domestic violence, Report was released late last month, dating violence and stalking. The breakdown for the 2016 sex showing that DePaul’s crime has offense crimes was a reported 21 onremained nearly unchanged throughout campus and four off-campus rapes, seven the last few years. reported on-campus and two off-campus The report includes statistics from fondling incidents, 30 domestic violence both on-campus and public data, a incidents, 12 dating violence reports and requirement under the federal Cleary 11 reports of stalking. Act which mandates that the report must The year 2017 saw 15 reported oninclude “all public property, including campus and one off-campus rape, five thoroughfares, streets, sidewalks and reported on-campus fondling incidents, parking facilities, that is within the 22 incidences of domestic violence, four campus, or immediately adjacent to and incidences of dating violence and nine accessible from the campus,” according stalking reports. to Public Safety Director Robert “I think it is a reminder to our Wachowski. community that sexual assault and “The intent of the report is to sexual misconduct are crimes that occur provide information on an annual basis,” everywhere and DePaul is not immune to Wachowski said. “It is a compilation of that, but there are resources and support statistical information from the previous available to our community,” said Title IX year that is made public.” Coordinator Jessica Landis. In 2015, the number of reported The report also covered a hate on-campus robberies was zero, while crime that was based on religious public robberies totaled 20. The number discrimination. jumped significantly in 2016, with 48 Despite the decreasing numbers, public robberies reported and one onPublic Safety is still looking for ways to campus robbery. Last year, the number increase safety of on-campus and keep students robberies rose i n f o r m e d , to five while according to reported public W a c h o w s k i. r o b b e r i e s Public Safety decreased to 39. is currently T h e r e working on were eight onincorporating an campus and active shooter 10 off-campus training into the aggravated Discover and assaults reported Explore Chicago in 2015, four classes, allowing on-campus and for new students 12 off-campus to be equipped aggravated with the assaults in 2016 necessary tools and six onshould a shooter campus and Title IX Coordinator come to campus. 13 off-campus “ I t ’ s reported assaults important to teach students early about in 2017. keeping themselves safe on and off There has not been any major campus,” sophomore Anna Wolf said. “I changes in the reported crimes and many wish someone had given me more tips to crimes have stayed relatively on average, living a city life when I first moved here. according to Public Safety, which is not It’s just so different than the suburbs.” as surprising considering the fact that Public Safety will also be hosting a DePaul is a large urban campus. Campus Safety Day on Tuesday, Oct. 16. “The numbers have not shown a Teaming up with Student Affairs and significant increase in crime,” Wachowski Campus Recreation, Public Safety will said. hold a number of workshops including In addition to robberies and emergency response training, selfaggravated assaults, the report also defense and a panel that will educate included motor vehicle thefts, liquor law violations, drug abuse and weapon students, faculty and staff with the referrals and arrests. The report gave resources that DePaul offers. The crime statistics that were released a comprehensive look at the variety are no surprise to many, as being on an of crimes that occur on all of DePaul’s urban campus exposes students to more campuses. The highest number of reports risks. However, Wachowski says that fell under the “liquor law referrals for DePaul and Public Safety are committed disciplinary action,” which included 897 to creating a safe place for students, in 2015, 789 in 2016 and 523 in 2017. A faculty and staff of the university. large majority of the liquor law violations “Public Safety continuously reviews took place at the different on-campus its procedure and practices to ensure housing. that we are providing a safe environment Sexual assaults and harassment crimes were also included in the Safety for the campus community,” Wachowski and Security Information Report. The said.
By Carina Smith
“I think it is a reminder to our community that sexual assault and sexual misconduct are crimes that occur everywhere and DePaul is not immune to that.”
Jessica Landis
reports did not break down the different types of sexual assaults in 2015, so there
ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
4| News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 5 SPEAKERS continued from front
organization was issuing tickets and advertising the event before the logistics were confirmed. DePaul later requested that the speech’s EventBrite page be taken down, which they did. However, advertisements for the event were still being distributed by the national chapter. “[DePaul TPUSA] really had no control or no say for what headquarters at the national level was doing,” Gavrilovic said. “We understand the DePaul administration’s reasoning for
this exclusion because this was a primary concern that was voiced in the rejection letter.” Gavrilovic said DePaul was additionally concerned with the possibility that hate speech would be used by the speakers. DePaul TPUSA was hoping to appeal the DePaul’s administration regarding the issue. “We, as a student chapter, never got a chance to do that because the headquarters took over and did the appeals process for us” Gavrilovic said. “In
Fall
L A I C SPE
yoggic.chicago yoggic.com
capitalizing on the secondary concern of the rejection letter with the hateful speech,” Gavrilovic said. “Headquarters never even addressed the concern that they are capitalizing at this moment in the appeals process” Rather than cancelling the event, it will take place off-campus on Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. at the JW Marriott Chicago. TPUSA has three DePaul professors named on the “Professor Watchlist,” a list of educators they claim are opponents of conservative free speech. Included on the list are Assistant Religious Diversity Director AbdulMalik Ryan for criticizing Israel and supporters of the nation, Vice President for Student Affairs Eugene Zdziarski for referring to climate change education in a university-wide email and Associate Professor of Urban Politics Valerie Johnson for speaking out against Milo Yiannopoulos’ presence on campus. This is not the first time there has been controversy surrounding conservative speakers at DePaul. In 2016, former Breitbart Senior Editor Milo GRAPHICS BY VICTORIA WILLIAMSON Yiannopoulos was banned from ever speaking on campus again following his the appeal letter from the headquarters May 24 speech in which he was accused to DePaul administration, there was of creating a “hostile environment.” never any mention whatsoever about Yiannopoulos’ speech was cut short addressing potential hateful speech, by security after student protesters got freedom of speech, nothing of that. The on stage and grabbed the microphone entire appeals from him. The letter was solely event ended with addressing the Yiannopoulos advertisement being hit in the issue.” face by a female Kirk and student. Owens argued T h e n that their President Dennis freedom of Holtschneider speech has l a b e l e d been stifled Yiannopoulos by the event’s a “self-serving relocation, provocateur” and taking to being “unworthy social media of university to criticize discourse.” DePaul. Similarly, some O w e n s , students were a black upset upon hearing conser vative, that conservative accused the author Charles administration Murray had been of “enslaving invited to speak black minds.” on-campus by the Owens also DePaul College said that the Republicans in Vice President of DePaul TPUSA Vice President November 2017. of Student Affairs Gene Zdziarski Students protested Murray’s presence “pulled the plug” on the event, allegedly on campus, with many deeming him citing concerns over “violent language” a pseudo-scientist and a racist for his promoted by TPUSA. controversial views on intelligence as it Kirk posted a similarly denunciative pertains to race. tweet, accusing DePaul of being “afraid” TPUSA has clashed with of having the pair speak on campus, administration before when in 2017 they attributing it to “the left hating the idea tried to hang posters that mimicked the that there are other ideas.” Kirk ended the Black Lives Matter logo to promote their tweet by condemning DePaul as a fascist event “Dictatorships and Radical Islam: institution. Enemies of LGBTQ Rights.” The “Gay DePaul’s Office of Public Relations Lives Matter” poster was denied approval and Communications (OPRC) also by DePaul’s administration. countered these accusations, stating that Gavriolic hopes that DePaul TPUSA TPUSA failed to comply with the campus can move forward from the negative rules for event planning, particularly in attention surrounding the case. relation to marketing and ticketing. “We on the chapter level are trying to “In the case of the Turning Point have the entire issue be at a transparent event featuring Charlie Kirk and level We feel that the every news story Candace Owens, established guidlines, at this moment is casting an unfair light particularly regarding marketing and towards DePaul,” Gavrilovic said. “While ticketing prior to approval, were not it is true that other conservative groups followed,” said a statement from DePaul. on campus have had issues with DePaul’s Gavrilovic stated that the issue of free administration in the past for rejecting speech does not accurately represent why or denying conservative speakers on the event was canceled, citing it as more campus, we feel that this time it was not of a logistical issue. the case. It was more a logistical issue “Turning Point and DePaul are in the than a free speech issue at this point.” news at a national level and its because Turning Point’s headquarters have been
“[DePaul’s administration] followed the standard protocol for each and every club, including ours. There was nothing unfair in the processing or deadlines or the timelines. I just want to make that clear.”
Ema Gavrilovic
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6| News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
My State of Mind AP PHOTO/CHARLES REX ARBOGAST
Chance the Rapper performs during a concert at the Obama Foundation Summit. Chance announced on Oct. 4 that he is donating $1 million to improve mental health services in Chicago.
Chance the Rapper will donate $1 million to mental health services By Emma Oxnevad Asst. News Editor
Chance the Rapper, born Chancellor Bennett, will be launching a charitable initiative called My State of Mind, a branch of his larger organzaiton SocialWorks. According to the official website for SocialWorks, My State of Mind hopes “to unify the broader mental health community, increase the access and visibility of services, and make it admirable to be honest with yourself.” Chance announced the donations during the second annual summit for SocialWorks. “We want to change the way that mental health resources are being accessed,” Chance said. “We need a new space where people can get information on how they feel, on where to go and a network for us to interact and review our mental health spaces and create a community of people helping people.” Six mental health organizations will receive grants of $100,000 each as part of the initiative. Those involved in the mental health community hope that Chance’s donation will destigmatize seeking treatment for mental health issues. “It’s super exciting that someone like Chance who has a very special audience who and who is incredibly high profile is promoting mental wellness,” said Alexa James, executive director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness Chicago. “We need more ambassadors and champions for this work.” James said that fear is a major contributor in the shame surrounding seeking treatment for mental health. “There’s still this idea that you’re crazy if you have a mental health condition,
which is completely false,” James said. “He’s truly in love with Chicago just “When people are afraid of something, as much-if not more- than the average they run away from it.” citizen. I think his advocacy for the city Chance has a history of charity in is great, and very welcome,” Bechtel said. Chicago. In 2017, SocialWorks’ initiative, “Slowly but surely, I feel like he might be “Support CPS,” raised over $2.2 million, ushering in a new era where Chicago is which was later distributed among 20 ‘cool’ again, and not seen as the crimeChicago Public Schools in an effort to ridden Gotham City archetype that improve arts programs. people like to portray it as.” Chance has been hailed for his Chance is a vocal critic of Mayor charitable efforts, Rahm Emanuel winning the BET who, in 2012, Hu m an it ar i an closed six of the Award in 2017, 12 public mental the youngest ever health clinics in recipient. Chicago. Fans of E m a n u e l ’s Chance cite his decision to close altruistic nature half of the city’s as a sign of good public mental character and health clinics as a defining caused a number characteristic of of protests, with his celebrity. d e m o n s t r at o r s “While people camping out can certainly on the closed choose to do clinics. whatever they Chance has please with their also criticized own finances, Emanuel in Hip-hop artist and Chicago native I think the the past for ext raordinar i ly his alleged wealthy, especially those with influence involvement in the cover-up of the 2014 over the public, have a social responsibility death of 17-year-old LaQuan McDonald, to give back to those less fortunate in a black teengaer shot 16 times by Chicago their communities,” said Luke Bechtel, Police officer Jason Van Dyke. a freshman film and television major. Chance has spoken out against “Otherwise, it just creates a larger gap Emanuel in his music, particularly in his between those with the money and those song “I Might Need Security,” in which without.” he raps: Chance has repeatedly expressed his “And Rahm you done I’m expecting love for Chicago, with some believing he resignation/An open investigation on all is helping to rehabilitate the city’s often- of these paid vacations for murderers.” negative image. Chicago fans of Chance have expressed
“We want to change the way that mental health resources are being accessed. We need a new space where people can get information on how they feel.”
Chance the Rapper
a desire for the rapper to run for office. A fan-made website, chano4mayor.org, was created in an attempt to inspire Chance to run in 2019. A statement from the website’s homepage reads: “We want a mayor who will fight for public education. We want a mayor who will reinvest in black and brown communities on the South and West Sides. We want a mayor who will address our epidemic of gun violence without the brutality of police or prisons. We want a mayor who will let the young people of Chicago lead.” Despite the fanfare surrounding the possibility of Chance holding office, some fans are not entirely convinced it would be a good fit. “As much as I like him as an artist and as a public figure, I’m not quite sure how he would be for the mayor,” said freshman business administration major Eric Wilhoyt. “He cares very much about Chicago and it doesn’t see like he would be swayed but corruption easily. But he is also not a good public speaker. It’s give and take with him.” Chance stated in a 2017 appearance on “The View” that he would never get involved in politics, stating that it is “the reason why a lot of stuff doesn’t get done.” Regardless of whether or not he pursues politics, James believes that Chance’s donation will change mental health services in Chicago for the better. “Anybody who has a platform and creates a positive narrative about health seeking behaviors is so important.” James said. “It’s priceless work.”
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 7
Chicago Public Schools losing $4 million federal grant money By Samuel Rahman Contributing Writer
The federal Department of Education has decided to withhold $4 million in grant money from Chicago Public Schools, citing the district’s failure to protect students from sexual assault. The letter notifying CPS was delivered Thursday and detailed the suspension of the $4 million that is a portion of a $14.9 million “Magnet Schools Assistance grant” and was to be dispersed over five years. The state of CPS’ mismanagement of sexual assault reports was first reported in the Chicago Tribune series “Betrayed” published early this year. In the series, reporters examined 108 cases from the past decade and found 72 alleged predators, everything from security officers, respected teachers, to deans. A portion of the federal agency’s reasoning for withholding comes from violations of Title IX, where protections against gender-based discrimination, abuse and harassment that interferes with academics are guaranteed. The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights stated that CPS cannot show its adherence to civil rights obligations to address student’s sexual assault reports, so this year’s $4 million in grant money was suspended. Michael Passman, a CPS spokesman, disagrees with the federal government’s diagnosis and decision. “The Trump Administration’s move to threaten funding for schools that serve children of color is another attack on Chicago considering CPS has already taken significant steps recommended by an independent expert to transform the way it responds to and prevents abuse,” he said. Even though CPS has “already taken significant steps” towards abuse prevention and response, the Chicago Tribune reports the school district currently has “more pending federal sexual violence investigations than any other K-12 grade district in the country.” Currently four investigations regarding sexual violence in CPS are pending; three involve only students and one concerns both a student and a teacher. John French, a political science professor at DePaul who teaches a class
STEVEN KEVIL | WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Chicago Public Schools’ finances have been in a precaurious position in recent years, leading to the shuttering of 50 schools in 2013.
on Chicago politics, weighed in on office that will relay teacher/student the topic justifying the withholdings. misconduct allegations to an inspector “[Having] a hostile environment is just general, while conducting all allegations as bad excluding one gender. This should solely involving students in house to not be surprising to anyone because ensure CPS follows all guidelines and this consequence can come,” he said. “If Title IX legal processes. “The pendulum you allow a hostile environment, you is shifting,” said school board president lose federal money,” citing withholding Frank Clark. “We’re going to continue funding as “the only tool the federal [this new office] until we believe that we government has have provided to make sure every protection schools comply.” possible. I’m In the days sure over time following the we’ll learn how initial notice to strike the of loss of grant right balances. money, the … Until we school district feel that this approved a situation has half-millionbeen addressed dollar contract in the broadest for “a top-topossible way bottom review” and that of CPS’ systems students are of response by protected, it will former Illinois force us to go to Executive the extreme.” Chicago Public Schools spokesman Inspector CEO of CPS, General Maggie Janice Jackson, Hickey and the Schiff Hardin Law firm. describes her semi-positive outlook on Soon after, a new office has been the new office’s ability to investigate created to act as CPS’ authority in regard student-on-student misconduct. “We to sexual abuse cases. The group’s $3 think this is an opportunity, though, million budget backs a new 20-person because a lot of attention has been given
“The Trump Administration’s move to threaten funding for schools that serve children of color is another attack on Chicago.”
Michael Passman
to, obviously, the adult-on-student cases — which are critically important and I think the ones that we have to address first. But we also have an obligation and an opportunity to raise up a generation that understands that this behavior is no longer acceptable.” Spearheading an office that can strengthen and enforce strict school policies and procedures seems to be a step in the right direction. Nevertheless, Clark still holds concern for his teachers as well. “When tutoring a student alone in your room after school, for example, puts you under a cloud of suspicion, I think we have to be concerned about what that would mean for the work that we do as educators,” he said. “What does it mean for a coach? What does it mean for someone who tutors students, that we now have a situation where we’re requiring people to report, ‘Hey, I saw someone alone in a room with a student?’” Clark paints a horrible situation for both teachers and students in a climate high in tension due to sexual misconduct allegations but the community, the administration, the faculty and the students have to hope that protocols will improve enough to regain eligibility to receive $4 million grant money.
8| News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
Protests continue at McDonald’s headquarters in West Loop By Molly O’Mera Contributing Writer
After three weeks of unrest at McDonald’s HQ in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, tensions came to a head on Oct. 5 with more than 50 protestors cited for trespassing, including Illinois Rep. Jan Schakowsky. The protest was organized by Fight for $15, a group dedicated to raising the minimum wage in service industries, but people have been protesting at the headquarters for many reasons this past month, many fighting for the right to unionize or to change the way McDonald’s handles sexual harassment in the workplace after many complaints had been filed nationwide over the past year. The Chicago Police Department said that 52 people were cited for trespassing at McDonald’s offices, but that no one was taken into police custody. Fight for $15 estimates that around 1,000 protestors were at the demonstration, although these numbers can’t be confirmed. Video footage posted to the Fight for $15 Facebook page shows protestors outside of the main entrance to the headquarters yelling, “McDonalds, you can’t hide/We can see your greedy side!” The latest protest comes on the heels of a nationwide walkout in September, where McDonald’s employees in 10 different cities went on strike to protest the company’s handling of sexual harassment. According to research by the Restaurant Opportunity Center, 37 percent of all sexual harassment claims f
GRAPHICS BY VICTORIA WILLIAMSON
to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) come from the restaurant industry. In May, a formal complaint was filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, aided by Fight for $15 and the Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund. The complaint represented 10 female workers of color in eight different cities alleging sexual harassment within the workplace. The complaint resulted in the women being ignored, rebuffed or even
fired when they tried to report it to their managers. With the oversight of Fight for $15, protests have shifted to include more broad interests. Despite the fact that the fast food industry has shied away from employee unions for decades, workers are now fighting for their right to unionize and make a fair wage, in more cities than just Chicago. Demonstrations also took place at McDonald’s in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Detroit, Michigan and San
Jose, California. “I’m proud to support workers in the Fight for $15 who are striking and protesting all across the country today for union rights,” Rep. Schakowsky said in a public statement. The congresswoman’s district covers areas of the North Side, Uptown and some north and northwest suburban communities. “We have strong policies, procedures and training in place specifically designed to prevent sexual harassment,” McDonald’s said in a statement on Tuesday. “To ensure we are doing all that can be done, we have engaged experts in the areas of prevention and response including, RAINN, to evolve our policies so everyone who works at McDonald’s does so in a secure environment every day.” Although McDonald’s just opened their new West Loop headquarters in May 2018, the location has been dogged by protests ever since. With the demolition of the iconic arches of the Rock n Roll McDonalds in River North, it makes sense the new headquarters would be a point of protests. As America’s most iconic fast food chain, with deep roots in the city of Chicago, these latest protests are a chapter in the long history between the two entities. “I guess it wasn’t really what I was expecting when I moved into the area, or at least I hadn’t thought of or predicted,” said Claudia Ramos, who just purchased a condo down the block from McDonald’s headquarters in the past year. “But it makes sense and I understand why they’re protesting so I’m glad they have a place to do it. To me at least it’s no inconvenience.”
CAMPUS CRIME REPORT: October 3, 2018- October 9, 2018 LINCOLN PARK CAMPUS
LOOP CAMPUS
CDM Building
Richardson Library
8
5 2 3
Munroe Hall 3
DePaul Center Student Center 3
8
1
St. Vincent Church
6
4
4
LINCOLN PARK CAMPUSOCTOBER 8 OCTOBER 4 1) An assault
report was filed for a person who was sprayed in the face by an unknown offender.
2)
A graffiti report was filed for graffiti in a restroom at the Richardson Library.
OCTOBER 5 3) An illegal consumption of alcohol by a minor
report was filed in Munroe Hall. Person was transported to Illinois Masonic by Chicago EMT.
7
9
Ray Meyer Fitness Center 5
7
6
Assault & Theft
Drug & Alcohol
4)
A theft of bicycle report was filed for a bicycle taken from St. Vincent Church.
5)
A theft report was filed was filed for a person whose items were taken from the Ray Meyer Fitness Center.
OCTOBER 9 6) A criminal
damage to property report was filed for a broken window at the Ray Meyer Fitness Center.
7)
10
A deceptive practice report was filed for a
Other
person using another student’s I.D. to buy food at the Student Center.
LOOP CAMPUS OCTOBER 4 8) A theft report was filed for an iPhone taken from the CDM building.
OCTOBER 6 9) A criminal tresspass report was filed for a person sleeping at the DePaul Center.
OCTOBER 9 10) A disorderly conduct report was filed for
a person arguing with the monitor at the game room in the DePaul Center.
News. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 9
2018 commencement plans to change ticketing, regalia By Evan Sully Staff Writer
The majority of students graduating from DePaul in May and June 2019 will only receive six free, general admission tickets for their guests of choice to the commencement ceremonies at the Wintrust Area in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood. Another controversial change for DePaul’s 120th graduation festivities is that students will now have to pay for their own regalia for the ceremonies. Before tax, DePaul undergraduates will need to pay $67 while graduate students will need to pay $101. Ph.D students face a $125 fee for their regalia. This comes after many years of DePaul being one of the only institutions in the country that paid for its graduates’ caps and gowns. The College of Law’s ceremony, which will take place next May, is DePaul’s only ceremony for which graduates won’t face a ticket limit because it will have fewer graduates in comparison to DePaul’s other colleges. However, law students will still need to pay for their own regalia. Soon-to-be graduates were informed of this year’s policy on Oct. 3 via email. When asked about having to pay for regalia, Emma Dirr, a senior secondary math major in the College of Education, said that “it sucks.” “I already have to spend so much money as an education major doing background checks and community [service] for observation hours that this is just another strike against a lot of us,”
Dirr said. An integral reason as to why DePaul is limiting its graduates’ tickets is an attempt to make all of the graduation ceremonies more similar in length, which is why the Driehaus College of Business and the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business will be holding separate commencement ceremonies next June instead of having both ceremonies together as they have done in previous years. “Both of these plans more evenly distribute the numbers of graduates in all ceremonies,” said Jennifer Kramer, the Director of University Events. “DePaul has paid for student regalia for decades. Faced with continually rising costs for commencement exercises, this will be the first year DePaul is asking graduates to pay for regalia. As we moved toward implementing a practice used by many institutions, we worked hard to negotiate prices that are in line with, or below, what students at other institutions pay. It is important for students to know that unlike other universities, DePaul will not charge a graduation fee.” DePaul began limiting the amount of tickets that its graduates received in the 2017-2018 academic year. A huge factor behind the change in the guest policy came due to the the change in the commencement venue from the Allstate Arena in Rosemont to the newly-opened Wintrust Arena, which has a capacity of just 10,387 compare to Allstate Arena’s capacity of 18,000. Frustration shown by students on social media is partially rooted in the fact
that certain colleges offered more than their spare graduation six guest tickets to its graduates just a tickets from $100year ago. Students who graduated in June $250. To avoid 2018 from the College of Liberal Arts that happening and Social Sciences and the School for a g a i n , New Learning received eight free tickets D e P a u l while those who earned their degrees i s from the College of Science and Health and the College of Education got seven tickets. Students who graduated from the College of Computing and Digital Media, the College of Communication and the Driehaus College GRAPHICS BY VICTORIA WILLIAMSON of Business alongside the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business received just five currently working on a process by tickets. The only graduating students Winter Quarter where students can exempt from that policy were students request a small amount of tickets beyond from the College of Law, the Theatre their allotment based on availability, School and the School of Music. Those according to the email sent that was sent graduation ceremonies were held at the out to upcoming graduates. McCormick Place Grand Ballroom. While the guest limit for DePaul’s Jessica Ley, a senior political science commencement still stands, it doesn’t major in the College of Liberal Arts put a dent in the DePaul experience for and Social Sciences, isn’t fond of being everyone. allowed to invite only six guests to see “I love DePaul’s connectivity with her walk across the stage. the city,” Ley said. “The city really is “I think six tickets is enough for a your campus here, as cheesy as that may lot of people, but as someone with a be, but being able to embrace Chicago large, close family, it’s a little frustrating and everything it has to offer through that everyone who wants to go won’t be my academic departments, classes and able to attend,” Ley said. “I have a lot of extracurricular activities has given me a friends and family coming into town in one-of-a-kind college experience that I June, and I know they would all love to know a lot of my peers at state schools attend.” are not going to have.” Last year, some students sold
10 | News. The DePaulia. October 15, 2018
A crowd of more than 1,000 gathered in Grant Park listened to musical performances and different speakers before a march to Federal Plaza.
Most recent Women's March focuses on marching to the polls Photos & Story by Xavier Ortega Women's March Chicago returned to Grant Park for another rally and march on Saturday. The march comes just weeks before midterm elections, so organizers are focusing on encouraging people to vote. "As the assault on both women's rights and democracy
continues in this country, women and allies are more united than ever in their focus on the 2018 elections," according to a statement from Women's March Chicago. The march began with a rally at 9 a.m., and moved down Jackson Blvd., ending at Federal Plaza.
Protestors get fired up with various speakers before the march began on Saturday.
Volunteers stand in front of protestors and await instructions from the Chicago Police Department to begin their march.
A young member of the Community Youth Development Institute High School takes point with a marching band.
Nation &World
PETROS GIANNAKOURIS| AP A member of security exits the Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul, Friday, Oct. 12, 2018. A senior Turkish official says Turkey and Saudi Arabia will form a "joint working group" to look into the disappearance of Saudi writer Jamal Khashoggi.
Nation & World. October 15, 2018. The DePaulia | 11
DAVID GOLDMAN| AP John Bird emerges from bathing in a lake after working all day to repair his damaged townhouse which has no running water in the aftermath of hurricane Michael in Parker, Fla., Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018. "Power I can do without," said Bird.
JOHN LOCHER| AP In this Sept. 29, 2018, photo, Rep. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev. listens during a breakfast event at TC's Rib Crib as she campaigns in Las Vegas. In the high-stakes race for Senate in Nevada, Rosen is taking on one of the biggest names in GOP politics by painting Sen. Dean Heller as someone without firm principles.
Nevada Senate race could test Kavanaugh impact
Turkey has proof Saudi writer was killed Ankara, Turkey
Turkey's government has told U.S. officials it has audio and video proof that missing Saudi Arabian writer Jamal Khashoggi was killed and dismembered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, the Washington Post reported Friday. The newspaper, for which Khashoggi is a columnist, cited anonymous officials as saying the recordings show a Saudi security team detained the writer when he went to the consulate on Oct. 2 to pick up a document for his upcoming wedding. The Associated Press was not immediately able to confirm the report, and Turkish officials would not comment. A delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in Turkey Friday as part of an investigation into the writer's disappearance, Turkey's state-run news agency Anadolu said. Saudi Arabia has called the allegation it abducted or harmed Khashoggi "baseless." However, it has offered no evidence to support its claim he left the consulate and vanished despite his fiancee waiting outside. Anadolu Agency said the delegation would hold talks with Turkish officials over the weekend. It did not provide further details. On Thursday, Turkish presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Turkey and Saudi Arabia would form a "joint working group" to look into Khashoggi's disappearance. The 59-year-old journalist, who was considered close to the Saudi royal family, had became a critic of the current government and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the 33-yearold heir apparent who has introduced reforms but shown little tolerance for criticism. Khashoggi had been living in selfimposed exile in the United States since last year. As a contributor to the Washington Post, he has written extensively about Saudi Arabia, including criticism of its war in Yemen, its recent diplomatic spat with Canada and its arrest of women's rights activists after the lifting of a ban on women driving. Those policies are all seen as initiatives of the crown prince, who has also presided over a roundup of activists and businessmen.
Search crews look for the dead and the living in Florida Mexico Beach, Fla Florida authorities fielded a barrage of calls about people missing in Hurricane Michael's aftermath as search-and-rescue teams Friday made their way through ravaged neighborhoods, looking for victims dead or alive. The death toll stood at 13 across the South. The number of dead was expected to rise, but authorities scrapped plans for setting up a temporary morgue, indicating they had yet to see signs of mass casualties from the most powerful hurricane to hit the continental U.S. in nearly 50 years. Search teams continued to pick their way through the ruins of Mexico Beach, the ground-zero town of about 1,000 people that was nearly wiped off the map when Michael blew ashore there on Wednesday with devastating 155 mph (249 kph) winds. State officials said that by one count, 285 people in Mexico Beach defied mandatory evacuation orders and stayed behind. Whether any of them got out at some point was unclear. Emergency officials said they have received thousands of calls asking about missing people. But with cellphone service out across vast swaths of the Florida Panhandle, officials said it is possible that some of those unaccounted for are safe and just haven't been able to contact friends or family to let them know. Gov. Rick Scott said state officials still "do not know enough" about the fate of those who stayed behind in the region. "We are not completely done. We are still getting down there," the governor added. Emergency officials said they had done an initial "hasty search" of 80 percent of the stricken area, looking for the living or the dead. Shell-shocked survivors who barely escaped with their lives told of terrifying winds, surging floodwaters and homes
cracking like eggs. Federal Emergency Management Agency chief Brock Long said he expects to see the death toll rise. "We still haven't gotten into the hardesthit areas," he said, adding with frustration: "Very few people live to tell what it's like to experience storm surge, and unfortunately in this country we seem to not learn the lesson." Long expressed worry that people have suffered "hurricane amnesia." "When state and local officials tell you to get out, dang it, do it. Get out," he said. Officials, meanwhile, set up distribution centers outside big stores such as Wal-Mart and Publix to pass out food and water to victims. Some supplies were brought in by trucks, while others had to be delivered by helicopter because some roads had yet to be cleared. The deaths were spread throughout the storm's vast path, from Florida to Virginia, where at least four people drowned in flooding caused by Michael's rainy remnants. Two died in North Carolina when a car smashed into a fallen tree. On the Panhandle, Tyndall Air Force Base "took a beating," so much so that Col. Brian Laidlaw told the 3,600 men and women stationed on the base not to come back. Many of the 600 families who live there had followed orders to pack what they could in a single suitcase as they were evacuated. A small "ride-out" team that hunkered down as the hurricane's eyewall passed directly overhead ventured out to find nearly every building severely damaged, many a complete loss. The elementary school, the flight line, the marina and the runways were devastated.
Las Vegas Facing a female challenger in a state gradually becoming more Democratic, the senator and longtime fixture in Nevada politics has long been one of the few GOP incumbents at risk of losing their seat this year. Beyond running as a Republican in a gradually Democratic trending state, Sen. Dean Heller faces other challenges, including his residency near Reno, in the northern part of the state. Most voters live in the Las Vegas area, where he can't lose too badly if he wants to win. Freshman congresswoman Jacky Rosen, who blasted Kavanaugh and railed on Heller's characterization of sexual misconduct allegations against him as "smears", has hurdles of her own. She lacks Heller's name recognition and has had to fight with little active assistance from Harry Reid, the former Senate Democratic leader and longtime Nevada power broker. Though Reid helped recruit Rosen to run, and has authored email fundraising solicitations for her, he has been absent from the public political fight as he battles pancreatic cancer. Still, Rosen has had help from rising Democratic women. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, a potential 2020 presidential contender, lauded Rosen in June at the Nevada Democratic convention and headlined a fundraiser for her that evening. As Election Day nears, Rosen is working feverishly to solidify a coalition of African Americans, women and immigrants, including Latinos who hold sway in Las Vegas' powerful Culinary Union. She later dashed through blocks of Spanish mission-style homes to speak at University of Nevada, Las Vegas' Asian student conference before driving past the strip's gleaming entertainment monuments to events in the historically black Westside. There, she heard from mothers who expressed concern about police shootings and the safety of young African Americans. "Every day, it's just a constant worry about his safety," said Tracy West, who is unrelated to Carmen, referring to her son attending graduate school in Ohio as a dozen women listened, nibbled on crostini and sipped wine. Sitting straight and focused on West, Rosen responded: "Some changes only come about through, I think, friendship and trust."
12 | Opinions. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
Opinions
Has social media stunted our political understanding? Staying politically informed in the age of social media can be difficult if we do not search beyond our time lines By Nikki Roberts Contributing Writer
Social media trends come and go. One week Facebook users are uploading videos of the Drakeinspired Kiki dance challenge, and the next they’re busy sharing memes about moths and lamps. For social media users whose primary sources of political news are sites like Twitter and Facebook, keeping up with politics is beginning to become equivalent to keeping up with the latest Internet trend. Social media users’ tendency to absorb and then quickly dismiss new content is sometimes quite beneficial. Our fickle interest in trends ensures that our timelines don’t become flooded with too much niche humor or overdone content. It keeps the things we choose to engage with fresh and interesting. However, when frequent users, especially young students, use social media as their primary source for information about politics, many of them apply this same fickle mindset to consuming political news content. This leads to students not being properly informed about important political ongoings. During Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s highly controversial appointment hearings, I noticed an abundance of misinformation across my Facebook timeline. One common theme I noticed among status updates, comments and even memes shared by my Facebook friends was that many of them used the word “convict” when discussing the Kavanaugh hearings. Whether their posts conveyed that they wanted to see Kavanaugh convicted or that they believed allegations of sexual assault against Justice Kavanaugh were a liberal conspiracy, all of the posts contained one major error: Kavanaugh was not able to be convicted, or acquitted, of any charges. Kavanaugh was not on trial. He was not being tried in a court of law but rather he was simply sitting at a standard appointment hearing. For an Associate Justice nominee, an appointment hearing is equivalent to a job interview. These hearings ensure that the nominee is qualified and able to serve as a Supreme Court Justice. The only abnormal thing about Kavanaugh's hearing was the relentless questioning about his alleged sexual assault of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford. Referring to the Kavanaugh hearings as a trial may seem like a trivial word choice error, but the spread of political misinformation is a serious problem that affects many people, especially those who obtain most of their political information on social media sites. According to a survey of 45 current DePaul students, 88.9 percent of students reported that they watched the Kavanaugh hearings, but 37.5 percent of those students only watched the hearing through videos they found on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook. Of the 45 students surveyed, nearly 75 percent of respondents were in the 18 to 20 age range, and all the respondents were at least 18 years old. A combined 93.3 percent of respondents reported that they perceived themselves as either about as politically informed or more politically informed than their peers. When asked why they either did or did not watch the Kavanaugh hearings, these 45 DePaul students provided answers that ranged from “It was an important moment in American political history” and “I was just interested. I knew it would be talked about as well, so I wanted to be informed,” to “I wanted to actually hear what Kavanaugh and Ford had to say, not just read headlines.” These answers demonstrate curiosity about current
events and hint at political activism. When asked if the students considered themselves “activists,” 51.1 percent said yes. Additionally, 88.9 percent of the students who took this survey were registered to vote and 84.4 percent had plans to vote in the upcoming midterm elections. However, some of the answers students provided were not nearly as sincere or informed as the ones previously mentioned, such as “I didn’t know [about the hearing]” or “I only saw bits on Twitter.” When surveyed about how the students access news, every respondent stated that they use social media in some capacity to stay informed. Many students listed specific publications they engage with, such as NPR, The New York Times and Fox News. When asked which specific news sources they follow on social media, three of the most popular responses were Twitter, Facebook, and the digital media entertainment site BuzzFeed; but none of these three platforms are specifically news sources. Other students said they “stay tuned on Snapchat” or read “only credible sources,” although the students who reported they follow credible sources did not list any specific publications. Sophomore Patrick Elliot is studying history, political science and journalism at DePaul. Like many of the students who were surveyed, Elliot utilizes social media sites to stay politically informed. “The first thing I do in the morning is check Twitter and Facebook. I get CNN alerts on my phone,” Elliot said. “I really don’t go to CNN.com or type an address [into my web browser.] I just click on a link whenever I see it on Twitter or Facebook.” As Elliot demonstrates, social media makes it easy for students to learn about political matters. Instead of going out of their way to purchase a newspaper, social media users can have political content delivered to them with news alerts or by following news outlets. Additionally, there are some aspects of social media that allow it to be more effective than news outlets. Senior Doug Klain is studying political science and Russian studies at DePaul. While Klain acknowledges the many downsides to using social media to stay politically informed, he also recognizes that some platforms, such
GRAPHICS BY ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
as Twitter, are capable of keeping the public informed in different ways than traditional news outlets can. “When a big news story breaks...I will see the initial AP alert and I want to know more about it right now, but I understand that full articles or full coverage of it have not been done because it literally broke seconds ago,” Klain said. “So the first place I got to check is Twitter because there are journalists who are on the ground tweeting out what’s happening, putting out pictures.” Social media is a critical tool for staying politically informed. However, it cannot and should not be used as one’s primary source for staying politically informed. As Klain believes, social media is effective for keeping up with the news only when its users are aware of its downfalls and can apply media literacy skills when engaging with content they find online. “I like to think I get a good spread [of news],” Klain said. But I do use Facebook and Twitter a lot because I use those platforms a lot and naturally the people I follow and the makeup of my timeline is made up of a lot of journalists and a lot of news sites. My Twitter timeline is equal parts ‘people I know and social stuff ’ and ‘engaging with journalists.’” While following news platforms and journalists on Twitter is a great first step, it isn’t enough. Students who glance at headlines as they swipe down their feed without further exploring the stories behind the headlines often consider themselves informed on a subject even though they aren’t reading anything beyond a 10-word headline. To these students, Klain recommends that they focus on exploring news that appeals to their interests. “Not everybody cares about news [...] but if you’re in college, there’s something that you care about in the world and there’s something in the world that interests you and there’s news about that,” Klain said. “There’s coverage for it. You can look out and find good information on it. But regardless of where you look for information, you should be careful about if it’s good information or not [...] too often, people take things at face value.” If you are interested in learning about your options and the offices you can vote for in the upcoming
Opinions. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 13
Midterm election disconnection
College students want to vote but avoidable challenges stand between them and the ballot By Mackenzie Murtaugh Opinions Editor
As with any election, low voter turnout plagues the nation because of wasted opportunities. In the 2016 presidential election, 42 percent of registered Americans did not vote, according to data compiled by the U.S. Election Project. The advantage to this is that it could help mobilize those who missed their opportunity two years ago. Historically, young voters make up a large percentage of missed opportunities. The 2016 election saw some mobilization with young people’s support of Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders, but after he lost the primary, many felt at odds with the system and did not vote in the general election or voted third-party. Others saw the election differently, as some type of burden they could not make the right time for. Work, school and other things got in the way, and the trip to their polling station was not in their game plan. But this is exactly the problem: college students in particular simply do not feel inclined to vote. They cannot risk missing work, school and even sleep when their tight schedules and impending deadlines supersede a trip to their polling station. While it is easy to allow priorities like work and school fog up your interpretation of voting’s relevance, no matter what is going on in the day, it is uninformed and ignorant to not vote. Even if most students express a desire to vote, a fraction of them follows through because of outside factors like applying for an absentee ballot for out-of-state students. As with any election, out-of-state college students must apply for an absentee voter ballot in order to vote in their hometown without being there. But this must be done well in advance because, in Illinois, the absentee ballot must be mailed in to and received by officials seven days before the election. This information is all readily available, yet misconceptions about how to vote still persist online.
GRAPHICS BY VICTORIA WILLIAMSON | THE DEPAULIA
“I knew I wanted to vote because I have the right to so I don’t know why I wouldn’t,” said Tessa Knox, sophomore. “I had to get my absentee ballot from Wisconsin sent to my apartment, take ten minutes out of my day to fill it out, and send it back to them so I could vote here. It was not difficult, but I can see why people would forget and then regret it.” In 2018, absentee ballots still have to be mailed in instead of online or in person. As we progress deeper into a technologic future, the way we vote still seems stuck in the paper-based past. Voter turnout might soar if absentees are allowed to register in person for their home state while still in their current state. Some even urge for voting to be welcomed onto the internet and allow voters to cast their votes on their phones, and this would motivate even the laziest voters. Associate teaching professor in the School of Public Service Nick Kachiroubas thinks it is not that easy. Even if voting could take place online, complications arise because of districts, technology and time. “Certainly location plays a role in [voter turnout], but
there’s a lot of things that have to happen before [online voting] can happen,” Kachiroubas said. “We couldn't institute an online voting program tomorrow, but it certainly would make the voting process easier. You could say ‘well, [voting] is not easy so I’m not going to do it,’ but then you have to suffer with the consequences of the outcome.” With about three weeks left until Election Day, it cannot be easy to forget to vote. In Illinois, the Democratic candidate for governor J.B. Pritzker and his campaign videos are literally inescapable. Even if his commercials touting his honesty and good-natured demeanor are easy to see through, it’s impossible to not know of the upcoming election. “What has happened in the last two years, people are polarized one way or the other,” Kachiroubas said. “They are certainly paying attention. The biggest thing is that it’s easy to post on social media and tell everyone what they should do, and that’s fun and great, but if you don’t make the arrangements to show up at the polls because of an assignment or homework that day, that’s what really what matters.” Registration deadlines differ from state-to-state, and people will post other state’s information without factchecking their own. Recently, there were many social media posts regarding the deadline to register in person, and many assumed the entire registration deadline had passed. Some students could have seen this and gave up on voting entirely because of misinformation online. While social media is a beneficial tool to mobilize college students and entice them to vote, much information is miscommunicated and many students will remain uninformed. The duty falls, as it always should, on the student to ensure they are receiving the correct information on voting. What is not incorrect information is that Illinois polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. A full 13-hour day is open for the people to vote. Finding time to vote isn’t difficult. Getting past the apathy might be though.
The problem with the campus closure The intentions for the campus closure and evacuation may have been to protect us, but it put students and faculty in danger
By Jacqueline Brennen Contributing Writer
On Friday, Oct. 5, DePaul Public Safety sent out an email, text message and phone call to alert students and faculty that the Loop campus would close immediately. This was approximately 20 minutes before the verdict in the Jason Van Dyke trial was expected to be announced, but not a single form of communication that was shared with students and faculty explained why the Loop campus was closing besides the incoming verdict, which many Chicagoans predicted that he would be found guilty. Faculty and students were evacuated from every building in the Loop campus and sent out onto the streets with no expectation for what they were about to see. Many were upset that they were being thrown out into a potentially dangerous situation. DePaul Public Safety wrote in a text message, “Van Dyke verdict expected at 1:45 p.m. DePaul’s Loop Campus will be closed immediately. Lincoln Park Campus to remain open. Updates will be shared when available,” which made many feel as though DePaul assumed Van Dyke was going to be found innocent because he was a white police officer. State Street alone had multiple groups of police officers ready to stand their ground against any angry protesters after the verdict if Van Dyke was indeed declared innocent. Instead, the Chicago
Police Department watched as one of their own was convicted of second-degree murder and 16 accounts of aggravated battery. Demonstrators marched through the Loop in solidarity and celebration that Van Dyke had been convicted. But the decision to close down the Loop campus did not sit well with the students and faculty already on campus, as well as those who were traveling to campus. “The most frustrating part was that they told us 20 minutes before the verdict came out,” said student Eema Siddiqui. “I was working so I didn’t check my phone or my email until someone came in like five minutes before the verdict and said we had to get out of the building.” When many received the email, they were either on their way to campus to work on assignments or already in class and were not happy to find out that the campus was closing for this reason. Many came to find out that there was a fear of riots because no one knew how the verdict would play out. DePaul jumped the gun with the closure, and the school’s reasoning discomforted many students and faculty. Many believed that Van Dyke was going to be found innocent, and they wanted to be ready for the riots that might have ensued. The campus let hundreds of students and faculty loose on the streets just 15 minutes before the verdict, and the
PHOTO COURTESY OF XAVIER ORTEGA
Confusion ensued as the campus evacuated before the verdict was announced on Oct. 5.
potentially dangerous atmosphere could have put them in an unfortunate and preventable situation. DePaul Public Safety Director Bob Wachowski did not respond to multiple emails asking for comment. The DePaulia wanted to know if any other options were considered, like a shelter-in-place that would keep everyone inside the building until further instructions were given. Shelter-in-places can be helpful when the effects of an event are unforeseeable. Instead of a complete campus closure, a shelter-in-place would have made more sense and kept students safe from the potential riots just outside the doors.
“I liked that they sent out an alert to inform us of what was going on,” said student Marina Gaglio. “I do think they could have done a better job at keeping everyone safe even though nothing occurred. I would have rather been told to stay where I was than being thrown out onto the streets.” In the future, perhaps DePaul will approach a situation like this in a better and more informed way. This experience should be used as a learning tool for how to improve safety efforts. If something did occur, the university would have had significantly more explaining to do.
The opinions in this section do not necessarily reflect those of The DePaulia staff.
14 | Focus. The DePaulia. Oct. 8, 2018
Focus
The yin and yang of Ch
Kanye unhinged: ramblings and repurcussions By Jack breslin Contributing Writer
Kanye West (now to be known as “Ye”) once told the world after Hurricane Katrina on national television that republican president George W. Bush didn’t care about black people. Fast forward 13 years, he’s hanging out with president Donald Trump in the oval office, showing him what kind of hydrogen plane he should be flying around in. West has spent most of the past month going on highly controversial public pro-trump rants, and it came to a head on Thursday when West met president Trump to discuss a variety of topics. While liberals were outraged by West’s behavior, conservatives and independents have found that many of his points have some potential. Not all of his recent ideas have been necessarily bad, but the majority of them come across highly confused and misguided. One of West’s most jarring statements in his post show rant on the Sept. 29th season premiere of Saturday Night Live, was the sentiment that the 13th amendment (which ended slavery) should be abolished. Many were outraged by this claim, but in reality the 13th amendment is problematic in that allows for prison labor to occur which facilitates mass incarceration. Rapper and actor Tip “T.I.” Harris, who was featured representing the left wing on West’s highly political track “Ye v.s. The People” earlier this year; actually supports West’s idea to abolish the 13th amendment. “His whole part on trying to amend or abolish the 13th amendment I actually agree with,” said Harris in an instagram video. “Not because I think be slavery instilled, no. It’s because the 13th amendment also says that slavery is abolished unless imprisoned. What that means is, the 13th amendment actually incentivizes mass incarceration and also increases the amount of scrutiny put on us regarding the laws that affect us differently than they affect white people. So, I know what he was trying to say but I think it was horribly worded. I know how I mean it when I say it, I just hope he means it the same way.” Harris’ point is basically that the 13th amendment is the government’s way of continuing slave labor by essentially disguising slaves as prisoners. Harris and other public figures agreed with West on that sentiment, however Harris has since bashed West for his meeting with Trump on Thursday. He compared West to “stephen from Django” and described his behavior at the White House as “the most repulsive,disgraceful, embar-
rassing act of desperation and auctioning off of one’s soul to gain power I’ve ever seen,” in an instagram post shortly after West’s White House appearance. Harris was far from the only one to be outraged. “Kanye West is what happens when Negroes don’t read” said CNN’s Bakari Sellers. “The issues he went there to talk about are important issues; but we’re not sending Kanye West to the White House to talk about these issues because he can’t, he doesn’t have to depth to.” Some have found comments like this equating West to an “uncle tom” to be highly offensive. However, West didn’t do much to avoid such comments as he made a number of statements that were highly ignorant of race issues. “A liberal will try to control a black person by the concept of racism because they know we are a very proud and emotional people,” said West to White House reporters. “So when I said I like Trump to someone who’s liberal, they’ll say ‘oh but he’s racist’. You think racism can control me? Oh that doesn’t stop me, that’s an invisible wall.” West’s change of political affiliation has been outraging for many, but Chicago Tribune music critic Greg Kot reminded the DePaulia that this isn’t the first time a major artist or band has broken the hearts of their fans with their political views, and in previous instances it was actually conservatives going liberal who were met with backlash. “He wouldn’t be the first celebrity to experience a backlash for going public with his political views: Springsteen, Pearl Jam and other artists have been slammed by their fans and likely lost some followers because of their political outspokenness (backing liberal candidates),” said Kot. “Ultimately, West is playing a different game. He’s been a contrarian from the start, positioning himself in a way to ensure he stands out from the crowd. He’s a master at creating controversy and drawing attention to himself.” Many speculate that this is just another instance of “Ye being Ye”, saying the most outlandish thing possible to get attention. It’s probably that to an extent, but some of West’s more recent antics seem confused and ill-thought through, a direct result of his bipolar disorder. West has opened up about the condition a lot about this year, even putting the words; “I hate being bipolar, it’s awesome”, on his album cover for “Ye”. “I think it’s important for us to have
ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
open conversations about mental health, especially with me being black because we never had therapists in the black community
for a while, and then come back and then make his case.” Ultimately, whether West is fit to be in
YESSICA PINEDA | THE DEPAULIA
or had an approach to taking medication,” said west in an interview with Jimmy Kimmel back in August. “I think it’s good that when I had my first blackout at age five, my mom didn’t fully medicate me; because if she did I wouldn’t be Ye.” Once again, West’s views on his own mental condition are self-contradictory. It’s hard to take him seriously on an issue of black americans not having mental health support or medication, when he continuously (and very publicly) will not accept either for his own condition. It comes back to a theme that can be seen with West on all of these issues; the ideas aren’t necessarily bad, but they are hard to be taken seriously because he doesn’t live them out himself. “Kanye’s mother is rolling over in her grave right now” said CNN’s Don Lemon. “I spoke with one of her friends today, I used to live there; she said Donda would be so embarrassed by this. Kanye needs help right now, he needs to get away from the cameras
his position right now is irrelevant. He has a close connection with the president, a billion dollar clothing brand, and he’s married into America’s “royal family” with Kim Kardashian; he’s not going anywhere soon. West is aw powerful man, and with that power he has the opportunity to make a difference. Ideas like amending the 13th amendment, working on prison reform, preventing violence in his hometown of Chicago, , still could all could be greatly beneficial. The only thing in the way of West actually achieving those goals though, is himself. “West still has talent. There’s always a sense that he can still make great music in the right circumstances,” said Kot. “I think other artists will pay attention to him for a while longer, and continue to collaborate with him when the opportunity arises. But I have no idea where West’s career is heading. He seems lost at the moment, but he has shown himself capable of righting the ship in the past.”
Focus. The DePaulia. Oct. 8, 2018 | 15
hicago’s rap royalty Chicago’s true superman: Chance’s ascent By Adam webb Contributing Writer
During his widely criticized meeting with President Trump last week, Kanye West, in reference to his “Make America Great Again” hat, said, “When I put this hat on it made me feel like Superman. You made a Superman.” The city that West plans to save, however, already has a hero, and the young rapper from 79th street is not just someone the people are grateful for, but also proud to call their own. On Sept. 17, Chancelor Bennett, better known by his stage name “Chance the Rapper,” brought West on stage during his performance at Open Mike Chicago, an event organized by Bennett to promote local artists and voices. With the whole audience focused on him, West announced, “I want to let you know I’m moving back to Chicago and never leaving.” Following his parents’ divorce in 1980, West moved with his mother to Chicago. In the 28 years that followed, he has changed rap culture, the music industry and pop culture in general, but his impact on the city that raised him has been minimal. The Windy City was where West’s career began, but Los Angeles is where he became a star. While West was off becoming a pop culture icon, Bennett was growing up, working on
ANNALISA BARANOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
his music, and utilizing any notoriety he achieved to benefit the communities right around him. With West’s egotistic approach to life and a savior complex like no other, returning to a city that already has an idolized philanthropist like Bennett has the potential to create a rather volatile situation. Has a fight for Chicago’s rap throne just begun or is West too far gone to even be in the running? Jim DeRogatis is an established writer in the Chicago music scene. A former critic for the Chicago Sun Times and current contributor to BuzzFeed News, by his own account, he has been following West since his first mixtape. Kanye has claimed that his fame will now serve as an avenue for him to donate more to the city he says he loves so much. “He can donate whatever, but Chance is rolling his sleeves up and getting dirty, just like Kanye’s Black Panther father did,” said DeRogatis. Bennett is supporting children’s programming in predominately black communities. West is calling for the 13th amendment to be abolished and sporting his signed “Make America Great Again” hat. “There’s a unique disease of celebrity that can fuck with you and turn you inside out,” said DeRogatis. “He’s not the same guy he was when I interviewed him a week after the Bush comment.” It was only 12 years ago that after a poignant criticism of the ma-
YAMINI BANGARUSAMY | THE DEPAULIA
nipulation of black lives by the media, West uttered the infamous accusation: “George Bush doesn’t care about black people.” West’s desire to be welcomed home to a city so plagued by racial divides characterized both by physical barriers as well as cultural ones is made even more complex with his recent controversial statements. There has been intense criticism of his seeming abandonment of the black community. In his recent performance on Saturday Night Live, he discussed some of the backlash he has received for his budding friendship with President Trump and his disappointment in the discourse around Trump. “Well, if I was concerned about racism I would have moved out of America a long time ago,” said West. “Kanye is a reflection of the attention seeking and lightening-fast news cycle we live in,” said Kevin Shap Amaro, a senior at DePaul who believes West is acting out solely to promote his own brand. “I doubt his words are remotely what he truly thinks and are instead an overbearing need to seek attention.” Bennett‘s rise to national fame has been sudden, and while he hasn’t attained the superstardom of someone like West yet, he isn’t exhibiting the celebrity poisoning that DeRogatis described. Last Friday, Bennett pledged $1 million to mental health services in Chicago. He started Warmest Winter in 2015 to provide coats to the homeless popu-
lation in Chicago. He has donated millions of his own money to the struggling Chicago Public Schooling system, and inspired countless more contributions to it by other citizens. Aside from the money, which can be viewed as a distant act of altruism, Bennett is constantly out in the community volunteering and simply being a Chicagoan. He has also utilized his celebrity platform to discuss Chicago-based issues. Last Friday, following the Van Dyke verdict, Bennett tweeted “16 shots and a cover up” and “Investigate Rahm Investigate McCarthy.” He isn’t simply a role model or idol for the community; he’s an active and vital part of it. As of the writing of this article, West has remained silent on the trial and verdict. The two rap icons have said they will be releasing an album together called “Good Ass Job.” There is potential for a productive diarchy to emerge in Chicago’s rap game and that West can start the process of mending his relationship with the city. But with a proud community who values loyalty, it will take a lot for West to regain the trust of the city that made him. While it’s possible, it will be an uphill battle for West. As DeRogatis said, “He’s moved on. He belongs to the world now.”
16 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
Arts & Life
Dystopian optimism in "The Oath"
PHOTO COURTESY OF TOPIC STUDIOS AND ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS
Meredith Hagner, Jon Barinholtz, Carrie Brownstein, Ike Barinholtz, Tiffany Haddish, Nora Dunn and Chris Ellis comprise the impressive ensemble of "The Oath."
By Lacey Latch Arts & Life Editor
Since the historic election of Donald Trump nearly two years ago, comedian, actor, and filmmaker Ike Barinholtz knew where his next movie was coming from. At the Thanksgiving that followed that day, Barinholtz found himself entrenched in arguments with his own family about politics, despite their similar ideological views. Considering how easy it was for them to fall into an argument, he considered how the same must be true for scores of families around the nation. From there, he set out to write a new family holiday black comedy in which the stakes are high and the political influence is heavily felt. In short, Barinholtz set out to write, direct and produce a film like none you’ve seen before. In “The Oath,” the government has recently created a loyalty pledge that citizens can choose to sign as an oath of allegiance to the country and its government. On the flip side, anyone who doesn’t sign may potentially be targeted as unloyal citizens. Barinholtz stars as Chris, a news-junkie who is consumed by what is happening in the country, which often results in persistent unpleasantness and frustration which he directs toward his family. Tiffany Haddish plays opposite him as his more mild-mannered wife Kai. At Thanksgiving, Chris’ family joins them and the tense political atmosphere bubbles over and promptly erupts. A variety of ideologies are represented in the film, which was one of Barinholtz’s main intentions. “I do want to make a movie that’s inclusive,” Barinholtz said. “I want to make a movie that people can go see and not feel like they’re being talked down to, regardless of the side of the aisle they’re on.” Because of this, Barinholtz was tasked with representing a myriad of viewpoints but also balancing comedy and tragedy in order to perfect the tone he was going for.
The tonal challenge also held significant weight in how the movie would ultimately be received. If too comedic and light, some might say the film ignored the gravity of the situation we’re in. If too dark, one might argue that the true humanity of people is being left out, Barinholtz said. “I knew setting out on this it was gonna be a different movie in terms of tone,” he said. As such, he leaned on a few experienced friends in the industry, like Jordan Peele, to ensure that balance was achieved. A lot has happened in the years since the election but the core of “The Oath” has largely stayed the same, Barinholtz said. Instead, over time he began to notice that “The Oath” and the situation depicted therein were becoming increasingly relevant. First, during the preparation stage of the movie, Trump interrogated former FBI director James Comey about his loyalty. Then, after they shot the film Trump began tweeting about National Loyalty Day, a holiday that has existed for a long time but hasn’t been acknowledged by any president in recent memory. Soon, Barinholtz began noticing that his movie was becoming more relevant as time went on. “Life copying art that was already copying life,” Barinholtz said of the parallels between the U.S. and the neardystopian world he had created. “All it did was reinforce our thinking that we have to get this movie out right now because there’s a sense of urgency here.” While the film has become increasingly relevant, Barinholtz reinforces that the main goal is to make people laugh. But if viewers also want to make amends with their families afterward that’s great PHOTO COUTESY OF TOPIC STUDIOS AND ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS too, he said. Too easily do people become Ike Barinholtz wrote, dircected and produced "The Oath." obsessed with forces they can’t control, like the government, and let them negatively “I am optimistic and I do think we’re some daylight … we are gonna come out impact personal relationships. Most bigger than any one party or any one of this okay.” importantly, Barinholtz wants to send a person,” he said. “I do think we will come message of optimism to his audience. up on the other side of this and we’ll see
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018| 17
Netflix's Cinematic By Michael Brzezinski Staff Writer
This past week, Netflix released five of its most high-profile films for the year as a part of their new-and-improved subversive fall lineup that’s aiming to make the streaming service an admirable platform for high-profile respected mature cinema. Most notably, this line-up strives to include a diverse-range of films from daring new awards-friendly films from world-renowned auteurs, ultraviolent mid-budget genre fare, and hot film festival acquisitions that can solidify Netflix as trusted brand for quality originals.
Awards Bait 22 July (dir. Paul Greengrass) Admirable in its sense of genuine human intimacy and outright condemnation of rightwing extremism, it’s unfortunately unadmirable in literally every other department. Paul Greengrass’ docudrama directing has helped bring seemingly larger-than-life true horror stories down to a human level before, however in “22 July” it just feels exploitative, shallow, and, most offensively, boring. As Netflix’s first huge theatrical push for awards season (Releasing in 100+ theaters this past weekend including Chicago’s own Century Centre Cinema), this is the last thing they needed. By portraying human tragedies with the depth of a common Wikipedia article, “22 July” feels like a poster child for what people hate in award-baiting cinema.
Cult Classics in the making
Apostle (dir. Gareth Evans) Netflix’s recent announcement of a collaboration with popular British action maestro Gareth Evans has generated lots of buzz. Evans was hot off of his film “The Raid 2” which solidified his name as one of the most audacious and thrilling names in the business. “Apostle,” his latest outing is a Victorian-era revenge action/horror mashup centered around a religious cult starring Dan Stevens and Michael Sheen. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, Evans’ newest effort doesn’t amount to very much cinematically. Though Evans has an amazing eye for action choreography (and it shows) the film consistently goes down a narratively-jumbled route and little-to-no thrill or pay-off. Less a fault on the end of Netflix or more on Evans and his crew, this film would have been a mess regardless of who distributed it. Hold the Dark (dir. Jeremy Saulnier) “Blue Ruin” and “Green Room” filmmaker Jeremy Saulnier trades the anxious energy of his two previous outings for a much more controlled and sterile exploration of realworld evil lurking in the shadows. Like “Apostle,” “Hold the Dark” touches on some cult-ish themes but in a way that really creeps under the skin of the viewer and leaves a much more harsh and lasting impact. While the narrative remains a little too vague for its own good up until the very end, Saulnier’s commitment to his unflinching graphic violence and cold assessment of the world is what makes the film stand out. With outstanding performances from Jeffrey Wright, Riley Keough, and James Badge Dale,the stunning cinematography from Magnus Nordenhof Jønck also helps the film shine. Moody, dark, and captivating, “Hold the Dark” is proof that Netflix does indeed possess the ability to invest in genuinely bold outcast pieces of film.
Sundance darlings Private Life (dir. Tamara Jenkins) By far the best film outing from Netflix thus far this fall. Tamara Jenkins’ follow-up to her 2007 hit “The Savages” about a couple (played brilliantly by Paul Giamatti and Kathryn Hahn) as they struggle with the brutal reality of infertility. “Private Life” killed it at the Sundance Film Festival this fall, and Netflix’s acquisition of the film points in a similar direction to that of “The Land of Steady Habits” - a mature mid-budget film that tackles real human issues with not only a harsh honesty, but a biting sense of humour with a charming cast. Not one moment of heartbreak rings false in this film, and barely a joke, subtle or overt, misses the mark. “Private Life” is the quality cinema that Netflix should be pushing for the awards, not “22 July.”
The Kindergarten Teacher (dir. Sara Colangelo) This film is an interesting acquisition from Sundance for Netflix given that the film remained relatively buzz-less, bar the central performance from Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film follows a kindergarten teacher as she becomes progressively more obsessed with her young protege student. This type of film is where it seems like Netflix will keep constantly landing even after this attempted rebrand of their original film division. “Kindergarten” is a perfectly okay movie that has gained some minor acclaim, but ultimately it ends up being buried in the streaming platform’s ever- library of content without much of an impact. I had to actively search for this film, which dropped on the 12th because it was nowhere to be seen on the main page. This seems like one of those films that isn’t necessarily major enough to make much more than a drop in the buckets at the US box office, but not minor enough to go without some sort of high-profile release.
'Better Call Saul'
18 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
Gripping fourth season ends with a foreboding look ahead
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
Bob Odenkirk stars as criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman in both "Better Call Saul" and the sequel series "Breaking Bad."
By Daniel Schirmer Copy Editor
Many fans of “Breaking Bad” were skeptical upon hearing news in 2013 that a prequel following criminal lawyer Saul Goodman was in the works. In the world of TV, it’s not uncommon for spin-offs and prequels to fail miserably and spell ruin for the legacy of their source material. However, after four impressive seasons, “Better Call Saul” has indeed proven itself a compelling and unique work of art in its own right. Set six years before the events of “Breaking Bad,” “Saul” follows shifty, fasttalking lawyer Jimmy McGill—before he changed his name to Saul Goodman and took up laundering drug money and defending lowlifes out of his strip mall law office. Though much of the show’s cast and crew worked on “Breaking Bad,” “Saul” has distinguished itself from its predecessor by adopting a more subtle and PHOTO COUTESY OF IMDB methodical approach to its storytelling. Giancarlo Esposito plays Gustavo "Gus" Fring, an entrepeneur. Following the third season’s shocking conclusion in which Jimmy’s older brother Chuck committed suicide, from practicing law, Jimmy finds himself watching Jimmy lie and act against his the fourth season begins with Jimmy falling deeper into a seedy world of crooks, own conscience somehow seems more repressing his grief and searching for ways drug dealers and killers. The only person devastating than watching Walter White to keep himself occupied, pretending as left who can save Jimmy from himself is sell meth and commit murder. though his brother’s death was merely his determined colleague and romantic However, the most dismaying part of an inconvenience. It also didn’t help that interest, Kim Wexler, who maintains very Jimmy’s descent into a life of crime is that Chuck’s last words to Jimmy were, “I don’t little knowledge of his criminal activity. by the end of this season we start to see want to hurt your feelings, but the truth Though Jimmy’s gradual that Saul has become a shell of his former is, you’ve never mattered all that much to transformation into Saul has not been self. His sense of morality has become me.” quite as grim or violently exhilarating completely warped; he has convinced Throughout the show’s first three as “Breaking Bad” protagonist Walter himself that his relationship with his seasons, Chuck and Jimmy often viewed White’s, it has been equally tragic and brother meant nothing, that everyone in each other as adversaries, and their perhaps even more poignant. The stakes the world of law will inevitably turn on tumultuous relationship served as a of “Saul” are not always tangible, but him because of his questionable past, and primary plotline. However, Chuck was also that doesn’t necessarily make them that the only way to get ahead in life is to Jimmy’s moral anchor. Whenever Jimmy insignificant—quite the opposite, in fact. act out of rational egoism. acted outside the law or exploited it to his It’s not the lives of the main characters that But somehow it’s difficult to cast advantage, Chuck would do everything in are often at risk, but their moral faculties judgement upon Jimmy for his actions. his power to reel him back to justice, even and their relationships. Showrunners Peter The path he puts himself on is indeed a if it meant dealing irreparable damage to Gould and Vince Gilligan humanize their regrettable one, but we understand his their relationship. But with Chuck now characters with a meticulous attention to reasoning. Moreover, we can’t shake the gone and Jimmy temporarily disbarred detail—so much so that, strangely enough, feeling that if we were put in his position,
we might make the same decisions. This emotional dichotomy that Gould and Gilligan have created is one of the many complicated forces that lifts “Saul” above most shows on the air. Another one of these forces is of course the show’s connection to one of the most revered dramas in TV history. And although some of the supporting characters in “Breaking Bad” now play major roles in “Saul,” Gould and Gilligan refrain from exploiting viewers’ sentimentality for the former. It would be all too easy for returning characters like drug kingpin Gustavo Fring and ex-cop Mike Ehrmantraut to overshadow characters who only appear in “Saul,” but newcomers like lawyer Kim Wexler and cartel associate Lalo Salamanca are given the same treatment as the more familiar faces. The impartiality with which the two creators approach their characters makes “Saul” feel like a worthy counterpart to “Breaking Bad” rather than simply a vehicle for nostalgia. But if there’s one thing that Gould and Gilligan have mastered, it’s the importance of time. The first four seasons of “Saul” have been a slow burn, but the two creators have proven themselves to be incomparable executors of set-ups and payoffs. Viewers will inevitably be rewarded for their patience with earth-shattering resolutions and revelations. Moreover, Gould and Gilligan have continued to ramp up the show’s intensity as it nears the timeline of “Breaking Bad,” and with the fourth season now in the books, they’re showing no signs of letting up. At the end of the season, Jimmy is riding high after pulling off one of his most deceitful schemes yet. The brief but foreboding concluding scene essentially seals Jimmy’s fate and suggests that the final stages of his transformation are at hand. Though “Saul” has consistently maintained its unpredictability, the show has demonstrated time and time again that its story unfolds like a contemporary Greek tragedy. Sooner or later, Jimmy will
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018. | 19
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
"Venom" follows journalist Eddie Brock after he merges with an alien, transforming him into a strong, rage-filled creature struggling to control his newfound abilities.
'Venom' lacks vision By Michael Edicola Contributing Writer
Sitting in a packed theater on a Saturday evening, I shuffled my way to my seat with a tub of popcorn and an ICEE in hand. On my left was a child no older than 10-years old, and to my right was a father who didn’t know what a whisper was. I was in the perfect theater for the hit blockbuster of this fall: “Venom.” I should preface what I’m about to say by being completely transparent: I’m a Marvel fanboy who grew up with a special place in my heart for all things Spider-Man. Having said that, the trailers for “Venom” left me utterly unexcited for this solo outing of one of my favorite Spider-Man villains. I went in with the lowest of expectations, and I came out incredibly confused. “Venom” is without a doubt one of the strangest cinematic--and I use that term very loosely--experiences I’ve ever had. The first 40 minutes of the film are the slowest 40 minutes of runtime in recent memory. I know I’m not the only one who felt this way because the kid on my left and I sighed at the exact same time. I found myself regretting my life decisions that ultimately led me to the theater, but then something strange happened: the movie started to win me back. When Eddie Brock, played by the man of many accents Tom Hardy, becomes the titular symbiote, the film’s pace picked up. I found myself really enjoying the banter between Eddie and his alter ego. It’s far from Shakespeare, but it was certainly a breath of fresh air in an otherwise dull film. I even found myself enjoying the over-the-top action sequences, which were surprisingly sparse throughout the movie. It seemed like for a moment the film had fully committed to the campy nature of its set-up. Suddenly, “Venom” rushes into a climax with barely any build-up. I was confused--I genuinely thought there was going to be another half-hour or so after the last fight scene, but I quickly realized I was dead wrong. “Venom” is a film that is sadly lacking one unified vision to guide it where it needs to go. One moment the film is an edgy, dark-comedy superhero flick with the least
fleshed out villian in a Marvel movie yet, and the next it’s a rom-com buddy cop film between two Tom Hardys. “Venom” is honestly a film best suited for the era of superhero movies of the mid-2000s, like “Daredevil,” “Ghost Rider” and “Elektra.” The theme song performed by Eminem is a stunning indictment of that fact. Is it a cinematic masterpiece? Far from it. Is it the best movie of October? Not even close. Is it a good time? Surprisingly, I would have to say yes. I found myself really liking the movie as it got its footing and I would dare say that I’m looking forward to an inevitable “Venom” sequel, which seems very likely considering the film smashed the October opening weekend record with a whopping $80 million. The overwhelming amount of negative and mixed reviews were not enough to stop “Venom” from outperforming other competitors like “A Star Is Born,” but I’m now more interested in the future of “Venom” films Sony is going to produce. The upcoming Venomverse--not to be confused with the comic series of the same name--already has a “Morbius, The Living Vampire” film in the works with Jared Leto attached to the lead role. The growing trend of cinematic universes is troubling because many films are forced or rushed with no real goal in mind. This isn’t the first time Sony has made an attempt at this either. Sony has a nasty habit of following trends before thinking, especially when it comes to Spider-Man. 2007’s “Spider-Man 3” is fondly remembered as the film that brought us emo Peter Parker, but it’s also responsible for ending that particular run of the character due to a jam-packed film of villains who didn’t need to be there. Sony made the same mistake again less than a decade later with 2014’s “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” which included painful attempts at setting up a “Sinister Six” film, which is still in the works somehow. Now that they have another character who is perfect to set up another cinematic universe, I’m worried that they’ll make the same mistake yet again. Cinematic universes without thought often crash and burn pretty quickly. Just look at the 2017 film “The Mummy” and
its attempt to set up the Dark Universe Cinematic Universe. Even DC has been struggling to catch the same success as Marvel with its cinematic universe, having recently lost their Superman. Studios are rushing to establish universes before they
can even establish a world within a single film. Until another studio manages to grasp that concept, I doubt anyone will capture the same lightning in a bottle that Marvel did. I’ll watch a “Venom” sequel, but I can’t find myself excited by a Venomverse.
Gosling and Chazelle pilot ‘First Man’ toward success
20| Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
By Garret Neal Staff Writer
“First Man” is the second collaboration between director Damien Chazelle and actor Ryan Gosling. Chazelle initially broke onto the scene with “Whiplash”, which picked up three Oscars back in 2014. He followed that up with “La La Land” in 2016, which became a phenomenon. Two years later he’s back, with “La La Land” star Gosling in tow, to bring this cinematic telling of the moon landing to audiences everywhere. It’s a slow-paced character piece, which is almost never my cup of tea. Even so, I found myself enjoying many moments during this two-and-a-half-hour biopic. Neil Armstrong is the centerpiece of this film, which brings a lot of focus onto Goslings performance. Gosling plays Armstrong as soft spoken and emotionally subdued in almost everything he does. The audience is provided with plenty of closeups of Gosling throughout the film, which gives us the opportunity to read what little emotion is there. In that way, one could say Gosling’s performance is nuanced. It worked well during most of the film and it made the parts where Armstrong gets visibly emotional stick out and hit home in a big way. However, especially as the
film gets closer to the moon landing, I did have this nagging thought that Armstrong seemed almost indifferent to the fact that humans were about to go to the freaking moon. It was certainly an unexpected reaction, but it felt in-character and maybe it matched up with the real Armstrong, I don’t know. With such a focus on Armstrong though, many of the side characters felt lacking. Claire Foy (“The Crown”) as Janet Armstrong was the one big standout. From dealing with Neil being away, the family’s difficulties at home and the death of other astronauts, Janet has a lot to deal with in this movie. I thought Foy handled every situation her character was put in as well as possible. She goes through a whirlwind of emotions throughout the film but never strays from believability. This film is likely going to get some Oscar buzz and I’m putting my hat in for Foy as Best Supporting Actress. Outside of Janet, there were few side characters that hooked me. There are two astronauts who are shown more than others towards the beginning of the film, but they don’t stay around long enough to foster any connections with the audience. Buzz Aldrin (Corey Stoll) is in two or three scenes before suddenly he’s assigned to the Apollo crew to go to the moon. Many of
IMAGE COURTESY OF IMDB
Ryan Gosling stars as national icon Neil Armstrong as he ventures to the moon. the heads of NASA are briefly introduced, but for much of the film they are only heard speaking through headsets during missions. Even some of the astronauts on the missions get little introduction, if any. However, the focus of the film is Neil, and he likely didn’t know most of these people well and it would take too long for the film to introduce all of them. Still, there is a handful of scenes that would have been far more effective had I been invested in more of the supporting characters In regard to its technical elements, the film unsurprisingly excels. We’re put inside the tight quarters of early spacecrafts with low lighting and restricted viewing, giving everything a claustrophobic feel. The astronauts are accompanied by nearcomplete silence, save for the ship creaking as though it may fall to bits at any instance. It always feels like the astronauts are one moment away from everything falling apart. Sometimes it does. Suddenly the camera shakes like it’s doing the hokey pokey, alerts go off and pilots frantically hit switches that should probably be doing something. This gave suspense to many moments throughout the film, even when I knew the characters were going to be okay. I felt each mission (aside from the Apollo 11) could have ended in failure.
These moments were able to keep me engaged in a slow-paced film that may have otherwise lost my interest. As a noted nonfan of slow films, I was surprised by how gripping most of the film was. However, once we got to the moon landing I really started to feel the film’s sluggish pacing. There is such a great deal of work that goes into building some suspense for the home stretch of the lunar landing that I really just wanted to get to the moon already. That was when the film lost me. Once we get on the moon, we are treated to some stunning shots and some moments that do a good job of putting the audience in the shoes of the astronauts. Still, I was feeling the slow pacing toward the end. Given the type of film I knew this to be, I did not expect to enjoy it. However, the powerful, emotional moments from Gosling and Foy and the film’s tense astronaut action continually pulled me back into the film whenever I thought I might be checking out. As the credits rolled, though, my horrific impatience won out. I don’t feel the need to see this again soon, but I wouldn’t mind seeing it again.. If you love slower, character-driven films, you’ll really enjoy “First Man.” And if you usually don’t, I would still recommend checking it out. You might be surprised, like me.
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Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018. | 21
'Forever' is inventive, worthwhile watch By Samuel Rahman Contributing Writer
After 13 years of fishing trips and mundane dinners, would you attempt to shake up your life with something new? Could you leave someone you truly love due to the monotony of your life together? Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen answer these questions in the new Amazon Video show “Forever” as married couple Oscar and June. Co-creators Matt Hubbard, a producer and writer for “30 Rock,” and Alan Yang, co-creator of “Master of None,” have mastered their craft in “Forever” and present audiences with what can only be described as the perfect “Dram-Com.” In the opening montage, viewers are treated to the entirety of their relationship from looks across a bar, to Oscar’s obsession with DiGiorno Pizza, to shameless bowling alley celebratory dancing, to a mariachi band-backed proposal. Hard-hitting truths then begin to befall them as their marriage becomes stale and mundane over a decade of commitment to each other. They continuously relive the same experiences in the style of a more realistic “Groundhog Day.” In a desperate attempt to change their monotonous life together, June convinces Oscar to forgo the annual fishing trip for a ski vacation. While the remainder of the season possesses enough plot twists to make even M. Night Shyamalan blush, a few choice facts never change. June is tired of her life and needs change, while Oscar dislikes change and desperately holds onto what he knows. However, they both truly love each other despite their differing needs. At its core, “Forever” is a dramatic, grandiose epoch of emotion, sprinkled with semi-cringey, off-kilter comedy to
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
"Saturday Night Live" alums Fred Armisen and Maya Rudolph team up for Amazon's new darma-comedy "Forever." lighten the mood and to balance the weight of the heavy topics being dealt wit. The best example of the grandiosity of the show’s emotional interactions is the sixth episode entitled “Andre and Sarah,” which exists as a stand-alone episode and has little to do with the main plot of the show. It follows two realtors and their 30-year on-and-off relationship as they debate whether they should leave their families and officially be together. While the episode does nothing to further the established narrative, it adds to the emotional buildup viewers feel and deepens the emotional complexity of decisions and feelings that characters are experiencing. If binge-watched, the story reveals itself
as an operatic display rife with complex emotions which both the character onscreen and the viewers at home have difficulty explaining. The entire first season supposedly takes place over couple days or a week, so binge-watching will allow the viewer to perceive the roller coaster of emotion “Forever” presents in full force. Moreover, the intermingled comedy makes the show an easy watching experience. Armisen and Rudolph are revered for their off-kilter, sometimes cringey senses of humor as seen in previous shows such as “Saturday Night Live,” “Portlandia” and “Big Mouth.While “Forever” is indeed funny, witty and expertly written, the show’s main plot point should not spawn
comical adventures. We all expected the immature screaming match with a 12-yearold skier from the two comedic veterans, but not necessarily the heart-wrenching and emotional performance Rudolph presents. She perfectly mixes the backand-forth buddy banter with co-star and on-screen husband Fred Armisen while revealing her true acting ability in dramatic scenes. This is a must-watch. Regardless of one’s preferences, most viewers will likely finish “Forever” satisfied with its inventive comedic style. And, hopefully, they will walk away with a more mature understanding of their emotions and a deeper knowledge of themselves.
Navy Pier to host lakeside love search
PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES RICHARDS IV
Navy Pier's iconic Centennial Wheel will be the setting of a unique singles-mixer in celebration of Sweetest Day on Wednesday, Oct. 17.
By Lacey Latch Arts & Life Editor
Navy Pier could be the next stop on your search for love. On Wednesday, Oct. 17, the pier will host “Spinning with Singles,” a unique speed dating event that takes place on Navy Pier’s iconic Centennial Wheel in celebration of the midwestern holiday Sweetest Day. In addition to mingling on the wheel, guests will attend a reception on the Chicago Elite, a three-story yacht that is typically reserved for private events. The reception includes a DJ, an open bar and complimentary hors d'oeuvres.
“I think it’s nice to have a change of scenery, to step outside of a comfort zone, and try something new,” said Navy Pier spokesperson Lydia Jordan-Parnell. “Spinning with Singles” also intends to draw more attention to Navy Pier itself and the unique attractions that it can offer tourists and Chicago residents alike. Specifically, the Centennial Wheel has taken focus as both a visual and historic Chicago landmark. In an effort to entice people to return, coupons and free gifts will be given out to redeem at the Pier another time, potentially on a second date. “A lot of the inspiration for this event
came from the diverse, eclectic place that Navy Pier is. The ferris wheel is so iconic to the city of Chicago,” Jordan-Parnell said. “The Centennial Wheel is such an iconic piece of Chicago’s history. It’s something that we’re very proud of.” There have been a few Valentine’s Day “Spinning with Singles” events in the past but this is the first to be held in honor of Sweetest Day. Participants often have a great time and sometimes even make that elusive connection. In fact, there have been couples in the past whose relationships have extended beyond that evening, Jordan-Parnell said.
With a decision to host the event in October, the temperature seems to have finally switched to cold. Despite the chill outside, the ferris wheel operates yearround because each individual car has heating. “Guests are in for a nice toasty ride and the Chicago Elite will be dockside for the reception,” Jordan-Parnell said. “So it’ll be a really nice, pleasant evening despite the colder weather.” Ticket are available as supplies last leading up to Oct.17.
22 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
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Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018 | 23
what’s FRESH on Netflix
Big Mouth
Hold the Dark
The much anticipated second season of the adult coming-of-age comedy premiered on Netflix on Oct. 5. The semi-autobiographical show from comedy writers and real-life childhood best friends Nick Kroll and Andrew Goldberg follows animated versions of their younger selves as they deal with the horrors of puberty and adolescence.
This film based on the 2014 novel of the same name takes place in the Alaskan wilderness. After three young children disappear, many fear that a pack of wolves is responsible. In response, the parents of one of the missing children enlist the help of writer Russell Core (Jeffrey Wright) to find him.
The all-star cast returns for the show’s sophomore season, including Jordan Peele as the ghost of Duke Wellington and Maya Rudolph as the female hormone monster. The first season was applauded by fans and critics alike for being ruthlessly honest and borderline inappropriate when discussing a near-universal experience in a hilarious and inventive way.
The Alaskan backdrop juxtaposes the tense subject matter, an environment primed for serenity disrupted by the harsh realities of the deadly situation the characters are in. The mystery and suspense in this movie are critical ingredients to its success.
Season two picks up where the first left off, with Nick still waiting patiently for puberty to come his way, Andrew dealing with the exact opposite, and the rest of the characters dealing with their own rapidly changing lives. Following suit with the first season, the second is comprised of 10 halfhour episodes, perfect for rapid and repeated binging.
A modestly discussed premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival suggested that “Hold the Dark” would quickly slip the minds of many movie-goers, and that the space would be filled immediately by any and all of the media that is constantly being created, released and celebrated. Luckily, Netflix swooped in early in the development process to acquire distribution rights, all but assuring that at least a few more people will get a chance to enjoy “Hold the Dark.”
LACEY LATCH | THE DEPAULIA
LACEY LATCH | THE DEPAULIA
In theaters & upcoming films Oct. 5. “Venom” After merging with the alien Venom, Eddie Brock must learn to control his new superhuman strength and power. Stars: Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams
Oct. 12 "The Oath" A family struggles to make it through Thanksgiving without letting politics tear them apart. Stars: Ike Barinholtz, Tiffany Haddish
Oct. 5 “A Star is Born” A musician in a downward spiral helps a young singer and actress find fame. Stars: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga
Oct. 19 “Halloween (2018)” Michael Myers returns to haunt Laurie Strode after she escaped his Halloween killing spree 40 years ago. Stars: Jamie Lee Curtis, Judy Greer,
Oct. 12 “First Man” An in-depth look at Neil Armstrong's historic trip to the moon on July 20, 1969. Stars: Ryan Gosling
Oct. 19 “Mid 90s” In 90s era LA, a 13 year old navigates growing up with his troubled home life and a group of freinds he meets while skateboarding. Stars: Sunny Suljic, Lucas Hedges, Na-kel Smith,Olan Prenatt
24 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. Oct. 15, 2018
St.Vincent’s
D e JAMZ “Spinning fresh beats since 1581”
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Find this and all our DeJamz playlists on depauliaonline.com and on our spotify account By Lacey Latch Arts & Life Editor
What a week it has been in music--not really because of any music, but rather the actions of the music makers. Kanye West went to the White House for practically no reason and Post Malone (finally) got rid of his frizzy cornrows. Taylor Swift inspired a bunch of young Tennessee residents to vote and Lana Del Rey dove headfirst into a heated battle with Azealia Banks. Clearly, a lot has been going on. So, in the midst of all these changes, here’s a few original songs to help you remember why you liked these artists in the first place - or why you hated them.
1. “POWER" - Kanye West Full disclosure: I am an outspoken “Kanye-hater.” In my opinion, his music took a nosedive after 2010 and has yet to return to its former glory. Additionally, and most importantly, any affiliation with the Kardashians knocks you down at least 5 more pegs in my eyes. With that said, I am the first to admit that when it’s old Kanye time, he’ll be booming through the speakers in my minivan so fast you won’t even remember the near-constant controversy he stirs up today. So, enjoy better days with me, relax, and look back fondly on the Kanye we didn’t know we’d miss.
2. “White Iverson” - Post Malone With each new face tattoo, Post Malone establishes his weird-but-in-a-good-way image even more. His long, often frizzy cornrows also became integral to the acceptably dirty look he has, which is why their sudden removal is so shocking. We may never get cornrowed Post again but we’ll always have his first album “Stoney” and the song that truly started it all for him, “White Iverson.” Even better, those cornrows and his unbearably flashy grill will live on forever in the “White Iverson” music video, because that’s what the world needs right now.
3. “Enchanted” - Taylor Swift Based on my staunch position on Kanye West, it’s probably no shock that Taylor Swift is definitely more hero than villain in the narrative of her career in my eyes. As such, we’re going to take it back to when Taylor Swift was the role model to swaths of people aged seven to 17. That’s right--curly-haired country Taylor. The Taylor that swept every awards show for years and seemed genuinely surprised each time. Basically, the best Taylor there is.
4. “Young and Beautiful” Lana Del Rey Sure, Lana Del Rey has a full discography to choose from, but her contribution to the soundtrack of 2013’s “The Great Gatsby” is still unparalleled. “Young and Beautiful” is a hauntingly moving song, slow but gripping. Lana’s voice is low, smooth and borderline entrancing with the peaceful piano in the background. Most importantly, this song will help you completely forget that just last week, in her feud with Azealia Banks she tweeted, “I won’t not f**k you the f**k up. Period.” Well said.
Crossword ACROSS 1. Dream spot? 4. Superior, e.g. 8. Aladdin's discovery 12. Bitter brew 13. Hendrix do 14. Burn soother 15. Clock std. 16. Daily palindrome 17. Ratted, in mob lingo 18. Old theater name 20. Cancun cash 21. Barn roof spinner 23. Bocelli, notably 25. Dale of oater fame 27. Bitterly cold 28. Upholstery problem 31. Affected laugh 33. Word of caution 35. Laudatory lines 36. Verbal thumbs-up 38. Forecaster's tool 39. Perimeter 41. Diamond complement 42. Moves slowly
45. Waters gently 47. Kitchen staple, once 48. Tea party guest, perhaps 49. Ad ___ 52. Like many lockets 53. Go ___ detail 54. Dumbo's wing? 55. It's hard to believe 56. Model behavior? 57. Blue hue DOWN 1. Area of expertise, in slang 2. Boston's Liberty Tree, e.g. 3. Set off, in a way 4. Swimmer's assignment 5. Happening 6. Scandinavian coins 7. Long time, to a geologist 8. Holography need 9. "Too bad!" 10. Like old recordings 11. Outfielders' throws
19. Bad impression? 20. Plant output 21. Literally, "I forbid" 22. Ardent, as some collectors 24. Make a collar 26. Sewing meetings? 28. Crunchy root vegetables 29. Qom home 30. Father, to Jacques 32. Fitting name for a thief? 34. Entry on a wish list 37. "Mikado" costume 39. Cause confusion 40. Isn't on the level? 42. Cabal's creation 43. Hawaiian sight, often 44. Exam type 46. Plum kin 48. Ballroom maneuver 50. Druids' sacred tree 51. Word with war or far
Sports
Sports. Oct. 15, 2018. The DePaulia | 25
Sailing sits out fall, plans big spring return By Mackenzie Born Contributing Writer
Part sailing and part social, the DePaul sailing club puts itself in the running for one of the best clubs on campus. Members meet once a week to head out onto Lake Michigan for a late afternoon sail, followed by a group outing for food and drinks after they’ve docked. But as most university sailing teams across the country took to the water this fall, the DePaul sailing club was noticeably absent. Due to a change in the way funding is now allocated for club sports at DePaul, the sailing club wasn’t able to secure its funding in time to get out on the lake this quarter. “I’ve had people texting me asking when we’re going out,” said club president Ryanne Braun, adding that while the team could have fronted their own money for boats and gear rentals and waited to be reimbursed by the school, they decided to sit this season out without guaranteed funds. Still, the club’s hiatus hasn’t deterred member enthusiasm. Even with the absence of sailing this quarter, Braun and the rest of the club are excited for the upcoming season, especially now that funding has been finalized. “We have big plans for spring,” said Braun, who is in charge of planning, budgeting, and organizing the club’s boat charters. A reorganization of club funds has allowed them a slightly bigger budget per quarter, and perhaps more importantly, given them the resources to sail during the summer, which is a huge season the club has been missing out on the last few years. The new funding also means that club members only pay a $10 fee to join for the year, and the club will now be able to charter five boats at a time, allowing more members an opportunity to sail.
ADJUSTMENTS, continued from back page at North Carolina A&T after going 0-for11 from deep his first two seasons at Oakland University. "I think that [3-point shooting] will definitely be one of our strengths this year," Cain said. "I think having Devin [Gage] back will create a lot of open shots for a lot of us. That's the first thing. Secondly, I think we have more guys that can put the ball in the basket from the 3-point range. I know all of us put a lot of work in this offseason to increase our 3-point percentages and become more consistent." Play fast: One thing that DePaul has done fairly well offensively the last couple seasons is playing with pace. Last season, the Blue Demons finished 90th in the NCAA in possesions per game (73.1) and 89th in adjusted offensive tempo (Ken Pomeroy statistic). Not great, but in the context of their otherwise inefficient offense, not too bad. This season, the Blue Demons may have the personnel to play even faster. "We're trying to push the ball up the floor fast, get a quick shot, and if we can't we're going to run some offense," Strus said. "Just try to get the best shot available." The key to making the Blue Demons play fast may be Gage. Per SportsReference.com, in the
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL SAILING CLUB
The DePaul sailing club has partnered with Chicago Sailing in Belmont Harbor to provide them access to gear and boats. “It’s so much fun,” said Braun. “We go out and relax and the weather is so nice. You meet people who love the water, and you’re on a boat with these people for two or three hours so you learn a lot about them.” DePaul’s club is recreational rather than competitive, so it attracts a wide range of members with different levels of experience. Braun, now president of the club, didn’t know how to sail before she came to DePaul. She grew up on speed boats, and jokes that because there was no speed boat club at DePaul, she went for sailing instead. “I love the water, and Lake Michigan provides such an amazing opportunity,” said Braun. “Why not get involved?” Similarly, team captain Andrew McShane wasn’t into sailing until he joined the club, either. Even though he comes
eight games in which Gage played in last season, the Blue Demons played with a pace of 71.11 (calculation), while playing at a pace of 69.9 in the 24 games Gage sat out with injury. But, Gage can't play all 40 minutes every game. So like any good mentor, he's passing some of the secrets to playing quicker along to a freshman teammate. “What I’ve learned from him is pace,” freshman point guard Flynn Cameron said about Gage. “He sets the tone at trainings [practices]. He sets the tone when we play open gym. I feel like if I can guard him coming down on the fast break, I can guard anyone. He said he was going to teach me a couple more tricks he has up his sleeve, so I look forward to that.” Versatility: Positions in basketball are vanishing as coaches expect players of all sizes to be able to handle the ball, run the floor, shoot from everywhere on the floor, and guard as many positions as possible defensively. Having players who fit this bill will be a strength for the Blue Demons next season, at least according to coach Leitao. "I think we got bogged down a little last year by being too one dimensional," Leitao said. "Eli had been a very good scorer, but because he was on the ball it kind of took away some of his ability to have the freedom to be a more aggressive scorer. You have Max who was our No. 1 option last season and you put him back at
from a family of sailors, he hadn’t tried his hand at the sport until he was at DePaul. “We assume a lot of people don’t know what they are doing, so we really like to start at a base level because it allows for the most amount of people to come out and try,” said McShane. The club has a partnership with Chicago Sailing in Belmont Harbor, which allows them access to gear and boats. Members typically sail in a J-22, a popular 22-foot racing sailboat that accommodates up to five people. Chicago Sailing also gives DePaul a discount — boat charters that would usually cost about $100 are only $82 because the club is university affiliated. “We've built up a really nice relationship with them the last couple years,” said McShane about Chicago Sailing. “They love DePaul students because we take care of their equipment and we tend to know
what we’re doing out there.” When new members join the club, they typically sail with the team captains for about eight hours, and then receive their certification through Chicago Sailing. The certification involves a test course with a certified Chicago Sailing instructor, which assesses the basics of operating the boat by yourself and includes safety measures like a man-overboard drill. Director of operations at Chicago Sailing, Graham Sauser, said that DePaul is currently the only university that the company is affiliated with, and so far, it’s been going well. “They respect the equipment and they are a good group of sailors,” he said. “And it’s a great, affordable way to get started in the sport.” All team captains are also certified and trained through Chicago Sailing so they can help coach the new club members, no matter their skill level. “It's a really chill environment, Chicago Sailing included,” Braun said. “Everyone makes it a place where anyone can learn.” Unsurprisingly, the club is a popular one, and there’s usually a waiting list for weekly sailing outings. “In the past, the first 20 people to email after 6 p.m. on Monday get spots on the boat to sail on Thursday,” said Braun. Even though new funding allows the club to start chartering five boats instead of four, space is limited with a boat capacity of only five people. Still, the club captains encourage everyone who’s interested to come out when the club kicks back into gear in the spring, usually around May, for a new sailing season and the club’s first ever funded summer outings. The DePaul Sailing Club can be contacted at DePaulsailing2016@gmail.com.
ALEC FARLEY | THE DEPAULIA
Sophmore guard Devin Gage stands on the sidelines during open practice on Saturday. Head Coach Dave Leitao says that Gage is two months ahead of schedule in his achilles recovery. his natural position. You add Devin Gage who can distribute the ball around and Jalen Coleman- Lands who can fill the bill [with his shooting]. I think our multiple [weapon] approach will be beneficial to us and make us better." Having those long, athletic big men in Reed, Butz, and Olujobi will help in the versatility department as well. "We can switch everything one through five because guys can guard multiple positions," Strus said. "We can go with any lineup and [still] be all right so guys playing different positions will help us out a lot."
Basketball is trending towards a version where pace and space are kings offensively Shooting at all positions is an almost must and positions aren't really a construct anymore because guys are expected to play everywhere on the floor. DePaul's emphasis offensively this offseason on improved shooting, continuing to play with pace, and positional versatility are all steps towards becoming a more modern offense while hopefully improving that win-loss record along the way.
26 | Sports. Oct.15, 2018. The DePaulia INTERNATIONAL, continued from back I had some great talks with other students who were studying here at that point.” Antonijevic said she chose DePaul over other schools because of how people cared for and interacted with her. She said she was excited to come to DePaul University. “We had official visits,” Antonijevic said. “They told us about the university, and everything and they offered us to come here before the season to see everything on campus.” The excitement to leave home and come to study in the U.S. will have different effects on each student. These students have grown accustomed to living in their home countries and being around their families, so the thought of leaving them to come to the U.S. can create excitement or sadness. Avgeri was not excited to go to the United States for her freshman year, but the love of playing tennis made her change her mind. “To be fair I did not want to come to the United States, but then I really want to play tennis, that’s what I do, that’s my sport and then Mark came along, he offered me a scholarship and then that is a good chance for me to study and play tennis,” Avgeri said. “I really trust Mark because he was so nice, and he met my family.” Having international teammates can help ease the thoughts of being far away from home. Peer and group advising have proven effective as components of adjustment throughout the international student transitions. These support groups can be provided by their international teammates or coaches. Most of the time, their teammates help them a lot because they spend a lot of time together. Moreover, their international teammates have gone through the same experience. “They definitely helped a lot, just because I was here like…there are so many things you don’t know when you come in here,” Sell said. “Like a freshman and an international student, you have so many more things to think about. And also, on the soccer side, it’s a completely different system we have here regarding the conference games. That is what they explained to me because they knew what situation I was in because they were in this situation a year ago.” These students always have someone who acts like a parent to make them feel at home. Ardizzone traveled thousands of miles to recruit players from their respective countries, having been with the DePaul Blue Demons tennis since 1995 and has seen changes over time. Working with international student-athletes is nothing new to him because of the long time he has been in the job. He knows the challenges he faces to make them comfortable, but he
CARTER, continued from front team. He was inducted into the DePaul Hall of Fame in 1994. Joseph Ponsetto and the athletic director’s attorney ignored questions from The DePaulia as they exited the courtroom, including a request to clarify the spelling of Jean Lenti Ponsetto’s attorney’s last name. Carter, wearing khakis and a sports pullover, did not yet have an attorney and faced off with the three lawyers representing Ponsetto, Leitao and the university by himself. He is currently seeking to hire an attorney. Wrenn at one time asked him to stop chewing gum during the hearing.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Sophomore Lenka Antonijevic was ranked No. 4 on the women's senior list and advanced to the second round twice at ITF Singles Qualifying events. does his best. “A lot of times when they first come, we make sure they realize their culture is here,” Ardizzone said. “Aspasia (Avgeri)’s second day in the USA, we ate at the Athenian Room, and she met a bunch of Greek people.” He said there is a Serbian church close to the Lincoln Park campus and there are Serbian restaurants around the neighborhood too. “The Serbians, this is the second largest contingent of Serbians in the world in Chicago. Belgrade is the only place that has more,” Ardizzone said. “If they get homesick and want to eat some Serbian food, they know where to go. If they want to hear some Serbian talking, they know where to go.” An accomplished recruiter, Ardizzone has brought to DePaul some of the highest quality talents. He said he tries to make everything personal and make the players comfortable. “When I first started going to Europe, even 15 years ago to recruit players, no other coaches were there,” Ardizzone said. “I would be the one beating the paths down to Serbia, Hungary, Romania, now I don’t go any place that there are no other coaches,”
Carter declined to comment, citing the no contact order. Wrenn indicated that she would have had to recuse herself if Carter were connected to DePaul’s women’s team. “But I have no connections to the men’s program,” she said. Wrenn is an alumna of Loyola University, and frequently tweets about her support for their basketball team. “Like many institutions, the University must sometimes seek assistance from the courts to protect its rights and its people,” a university spokesperson said in a statement to The DePaulia. “As these are pending legal matters, we are unfortunately unable to comment further.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Senior Anton Sell grew up in Hamburg, Germany and previously started on the Niendorfer TSV club that won the Hamburg League title in 2012. “Instead of people just recruiting…now I go upstairs today, and I talk to my recruiter. I personally meet every kid and try to meet their families.” He said the kids are excited to come to the United States because they get more opportunities to play because in Europe,
once they graduate from high school and do not turn professional, they no longer play. He said he has been lucky to recruit players who buy into his philosophies and can work with him.
PHOTO COURTESY OF RICK CARTER'S TWITTER PAGE
Rick Carter (Left) joined Dave Leitao's (Right) coaching staff in April 2015 as the program's associate head coach.
Sports. Oct.15, 2018. The DePaulia | 27
Cerny hits home stretch of time at DePaul By Jacqueline Brennan
points. Cerny grew up in Berkeley California, a liberal community that Senior year is closing in fast, and as had a different atmosphere than here Franny Cerny laces up her cleats and in Chicago. Following her graduation, begins to pump up her team, she knows Cerny committed to playing for the that she left it all on the field and wouldn’t Blue Demons because she admired the change her time on the DePaul Women’s program and culture that the team had soccer team for the world. created. “It’s almost surreal in a sense,” said “I love the program here at DePaul,” Cerny. “I don’t want it to end. Its been said Cerny. “The culture we have here, such a big part of my life that I don’t even they look to recruit players based on know what I’m going to do after, but I’m their personalities as well as their talents happy that I’ve been able to put in as and I felt very welcomed here.” much as I can and get everything that I When choosing her career path can out of the experience that I have.” after committing to DePaul, Cerny said During she chose to study her time at Biological Sciences DePaul, Cerny because she wants to has become become a physical one of the most therapist so she can successful stay in the sports players in the field. Cerny also p r o g r a m’s wants to give back history. She to other athletes in has scored similar ways that 32 goals, she was during her provided 15 soccer career. assists and “She’s definitely a c c u mu l at e d someone people look 79 points in to for guidance,” said almost four senior teammate, seasons. In Lizzie Parrilli. her freshman As team captain, year she was Cerny has a lot on named Big her shoulders, but East Freshman she has been able to of the Year, do it with ease. As playing in 20 Parrilli remembers, matches while there was a time that starting in 12 Cerny got in the face of them. Her of another player Senior Women's Soccer Player because she had sophomore year she injured one of their started all 19 teammates and Cerny games, and led the Blue Demons with didn’t care for such unsportsmanlike five game-winning goals; at the end of conduct. the season she was named to the All-Big “Someone fouled Maddie [Frick] and East Second Team. she was down and hurt and Franny got Cerny kept terrorizing defences in in the girls face and she yelled at her, she her junior year as she went on to lead was like don’t ever touch my teammates the Big East with 10 goals, and tallied a again,” said Parrilli. “She’s not a mean squad-best 22 points. At the end of the person, but that’s just a representation season Cerny was named to All-Big East of who she is. Always having this teams’ First team. Now in her last season with back and setting this team’s standards.” the Blue Demons, Cerny is once again Cerny is described by her teammates leading the team in goals, assists and and coaches as someone you want on Contributing Writer
“I love the program here at DePaul. The culture we have here, they look to recruit players based on their personalities as well as their talents and I felt very welcomed here.”
Franny Cerny
NCAA, continued from front this was sometime ago. So our university has addressed all of those issues before and if there is anything new that comes up, which I don't anticipate, then we'll address it then. But our president, Jeanne our athletic director, they have been very comfortable with where we're at and what transpired.” Leitao also said Heirman will “absolutely” be on staff this coming season. “DePaul conducted a thorough review of its men’s basketball program after the federal investigation into corruption and bribery in college basketball was made public in September 2017,” a university spokesperson said in a statement to The DePaulia after Leitao spoke to the media on Monday. “We will continue to monitor the legal proceedings and review any further developments and of course will fully cooperate if contacted in the future by federal law enforcement, the Department of Justice or the NCAA.” After Bowen Sr.’s testimony two weeks ago, when he first said Heirman paid
ANDREW HATTERSLEY | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul assistant Tim Anderson joined the coaching staff in August 2017. him, DePaul released a statement saying again they have not been contacted by prosecutors in the NCAA corruption trial, in the exact same statement released for the most recent testimony. Bowen II was one of DePaul’s top targets in the 2017 recruiting class, alongside his former high school teammate Campbell. Over Leitao’s second term with the Blue Demons, his program has
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Senior Franny Cerny is apporaching the end of her time at DePaul. This season Cerny has tallied seven goals and two assists, while racking up 16 points your team - she’s the teammate you wish you had on or off the field. “She’s a natural born leader,” said head coach Erin Chastain. “I don’t think she has ever had to grow into being the leader of this team, she was born to be our leader. She knows how to buckle down when it’s time and how to be loose and have fun.” Outside of the soccer field, Cerny likes to enjoy her free time Downtown, or off the Grand redline stop, where there are multiple different types of restaurants to try out. “A lot of my exploring the city revolves around food,” said Cerny. “I love food, and I think it’s a great way to get to know this city.” Cerny has long been familiar with the sacrifices needed to maintain her academic status while being able to play the sports she loves. “It’s all about prioritizing and making sure you’re meeting your deadlines, but also making time for yourself,” said
Cerny. As her senior season with the DePaul Blue Demons comes to end, and Cerny hopes to have the opportunity to play professional soccer, she’s planning on entering her name into the draft, but is hopeful that she will be able to play for a few years in Europe in the Czech Republic where her family is from. The friends you make in college will be the friends that you carry throughout the rest of your life, no matter how far apart you are. For Cerny that’s one of the things she will miss the most about being at DePaul. “It’s going to be a big change for me not being around my best friends as much once we graduate,” said Cerny. “It’s something I’m going to have to adjust to and I think not being able to see them is going to be very hard for me at first. It’s definitely what I will miss the most about my being at DePaul after I graduate.”
developed something of a rapport with the La Lumiere, rostering five players over the last two years. Ultimately, Leitao gave the school’s head coach, Heirman, a job on his own staff; a move that was widely viewed as a means of courting Bowen II and Campbell. In early spring of 2017, Bowen II toured DePaul’s campus on an unofficial visit, but ultimately made an out-ofthe-blue commitment to The University of Louisville after they entered the fold late in his recruiting process. Bowen II left Louisville shortly after the scandal went public, made a brief stop at The University of South Carolina and now plays professionally in Australia. In August, court records made public a text message from Louisville head coach Rick Pitino to a former assistant coach alleging that DePaul offered $200,000 to Bowen Sr. for his sons services. “Coach DePaul [sic] trying to pay Bowen 200 k to come here. Crazy world!” Pitino wrote. Just hours after the text found its way into the news cycle, Pitino said the text was
a joke stemming from a baseless rumor. Rick Carter, former associate head coach at DePaul, tweeted that no money was ever offered by DePaul and that the Blue Demons tried to hire staff in order to draw Bowen II to DePaul. “I said to [my former assistant coach] Kenny Johnson on the phone, ‘I don’t believe a word of it,’” Pitino told the Louisville Courier-Journal. “Where would DePaul get $200,000 to pay Brian Bowen? There’s no truth to what this guy said. He’s a nobody in the business. He hates DePaul, this guy.” Pitino was fired from the University of Louisville shortly after news broke that Bowen Sr. accepted $100,000 to enroll there. The current trial in Southern District of New York is a criminal trial for felony wire transfer fraud, but many of the allegations made over the course of the trial are likely to only constitute a violation of NCAA amateurism rules. To date, the NCAA has not taken any public action.
Sports
Sports. Oct. 15, 2018. The DePaulia | 28
Speed up the rebuild
Players and coaches open up on plans to be more aggressive offensively during the 2018-2019 season. By Paul Steeno Senior Basketball Writer
What will the 2018-2019 iteration of the DePaul Blue Demon basketball team's offense look like? Blue Demon fans hope the answer to this question is 'nothing like the 2017-2018 version'. Last season, the Blue Demons finished last in the Big East Conference in scoring offense (71.9 points per game), field goal percentage (42.8 percent), and 3-point field goal percentage (31 percent), as the offense often defaulted to hero ball from junior stars Eli Cain and Max Strus. Perhaps the best measure of the strength of an offense is Ken Pomeroy's adjusted offensive efficiency statistic. The Blue Demons finished 183rd in the country by this metric last season (45 of the top 50 teams in this category made either the NCAA or National Invitational tournaments). Throughout the offseason, head coach Dave Leitao and several of his athletes have given clues about what they want the offense to look like next season. Let's piece it together. Better 3-point shooting: Shooting at all positions is at a premium. But last season, the Blue Demons hardly had shooting at any position. Since transferred guard Brandon Cyrus led the team in 3-point percentage at 34.6 percent and overall the Blue Demons shot 31 percent from deep that checked in at 334 out of 351 Division I schools. DePaul big men hardly chipped in anything from deep as Marin Maric led the way in 3-point
percentage (33.3 percent), but did it on a nonconsequential 1.1 3-point attempts per game. Blue Demon big men (Maric, Reed, Butz, Peter Ryckbosch, Tre'Darius McCallum, and Joe Hanel) combined for 39 made 3-point field goals last season. Jaren Jackson Jr. made 38 by himself with Michigan State, Lauri Markkanen made 69 at Arizona his one year there, Omari Spellman made 65 last season with Villanova, and throw in Toby Hegner from Creighton who made 36 last season so we aren't only using first round picks. Not only were the Blue Demons not making 3-point field goals, but they weren't taking them at a high rate either. They attempted 6.3 per game which was the lowest in the Big East Conference. Look for that to change. "We've added more shooters and we've put much more emphasis on it, so the combination I hope will make us really better than what we were last season," Leitao said at the Chicago college basketball tip-off luncheon last Monday. How would drastic improvements from deep help this DePaul team? "A lot of guys last year on our team struggled with shooting the ball so now we have Jalen [Coleman-Lands] who can stretch the floor, Eli can stretch the floor out shooting the ball so it'll open up driving lanes and have the defense collapse," Strus said. "We can kick it out and give an easier shot for step-in threes. You will see that percentage go up this year." University of Illinois transfer Lands sat out last season per NCAA transfer rules. He brings a 40.2 percent collegiate track
KONRAD MARKOWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
Senior guard Max Strus shoots over Villanova defender Donte Divencenso. record from deep to DePaul. Freshman John Diener was an elite shooter in high school, while Cain said freshman big man George Maslennikov also has flashed deep range in practice. Femi Olujobi has showed
signs of a sprouting long-range game as well, knocking down 18 3-point field goals at a 29 percent clip last season at North
See ADJUSTMENTS , page 25
International players call DePaul home By Emmanuel Okirie Contributing Writer
With more than 17,000 international student-athletes studying and competing at NCAA member institutions, international student-athletes are a positive addition to the learning environment within intercollegiate athletics. International student-athletes face unique challenges once they land on campus, including additional travel, language barriers, difficulties in adjusting to a new sports culture, acclimatization issues and isolation. With such challenges, these athletes bring depth and cultural diversity that enhances the learning environment of every student-athlete, coach and administrator in the Association. “It was weird when I got here - like everything was different,” Aspasia Avgeri, from Athens, Greece, said. “You know like the cups, the silverware, I don’t know why but everything seems bigger.” Likewise, Lenka Antonijevic, a
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS
Junior Aspasia Avgeri grew up in Greece and was a member of the Greek Junior National Team. sophomore tennis player from Serbia, said things and people in America were different. “The mentality of people is also weird,” Antonijevic said. “So, I needed time to get used to it. It’s not weird in a bad way but just different from back home. And
we came here alone with no parents, so I needed some time to get used to it.” International student-athletes are one of the fastest growing subpopulations in intercollegiate athletics, increasing at a rate that is far outpacing the overall student-athlete growth in NCAA Division
I intercollegiate athletics. If you follow DePaul University athletics, you probably know that international students make up a lot of the rosters. There are 235 studentathletes at the university, of which 30 are international students. These students are far away from home, however they took different pathways to get here, most of which came through scouting by the coaches of the respective sport. “For me, I was playing a tournament in Europe, and my coach, (Mark Ardizzone) watched me, and he liked how I played,” Antonijevic said. “So, after that we talked, and he offered me a scholarship, and he introduced me to DePaul and everything.” Similarly, Anton Sell, a senior soccer player from Germany, chose to come to play soccer at DePaul after being scouted by coaches. “I got recruited by coaches, and they basically reached out to me, and we had some good talks,” Sell said. “They told me some good things about the university, and
See INTERNATIONAL, page 26