DU Clarion Volume 124 Issue 26

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VOLUME 124, ISSUE 26

“STRANGER THINGS 2” TAKES A TRIP TO THE DARK SIDE

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AL GORE AND DU FACULTY TALK CLIMATE CHANGE

VOLLEYBALL SWEEPS THE DAKOTAS OVER WEEKEND

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HANDMAIDS PROTEST 4 PENCE IN DENVER pa g e

JOHN GREEN HUMANIZES OCD IN HIS NEW NOVEL

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| NEWS

Al Gore and faculty panel talk climate change

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n Oct. 26, University Libraries and the Center for Sustainability hosted a screening of former Vice President Al Gore’s 2017 documentary, “An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power.” The film was shown after an exclusive webcast Q&A with Gore himself which was shown around schools nationwide. Afterwards, a panel of DU faculty from the Department of Natural Sciences & Mathematics extended the conversation around climate change as each discussed their own work in assisting the planet and their takeaway from the film.

The main event of the night was primarily Al Gore’s Q&A in which he responded to student-submitted questions. The DU audience patiently watched in hopes that their entry was chosen. Although DU’s entry was not among the selected questions, the ones chosen still included input from Gore that was meant to be impactful

for the entire audience watching. He touched on a variety of topics including current events, student advocacy and staying informed.

One student from Emerson College asked about how to connect recent climate events with climate change in a way that inspires a pursuit for change rather than worry and hopelessness. Gore clarified that massive earthquakes like those making recent headlines are not caused by the climate crisis. But fracking, he added, can cause minor ones in the areas they are located.

In regard to making the disparaging events a source for impactful change, “I always couple discussions of the consequences of the climate crisis with an immediate discussion of the solutions to the climate crisis,” said Gore who suggested that, “we’ve just got to match these solutions with political will and implement the solutions.”

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another student asked Gore what advice he would give the current administration regarding climate action. Hesitant to sound partisan, Gore explained that, when trying to convince Trump to not pull out of the Paris Agreement, “I came to the conclusion that they surrounded themselves with carbon polluters,” he said. And, based on the administration’s actions thus far, “I’m not sure they’re gonna be interested in any advice from me,” he admitted.

Regarding student advocacy, a teacher asked Gore how students could be included in decision making outside of writing to Congress. In response, Gore emphasized the importance of mitigation and the voice of students for they, “have been in the vanguard,” he observed. Gore also highlighted how, “students are once again beginning to play a key role in this climate movement that’s gaining momentum.”

Gore concluded his roughly

20-minute Q&A by encouraging that all viewers, “become a part of the solution,” and continue spreading the word on why climate change is a topic to not leave ignored. He suggested that anyone wanting more information on the movement go to The Climate Reality Project website.

“An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power,” follows up on the topics discussed in the Academy Award winning film for Best Documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth,” which premiered in 2006. The theme of this film pushes for a call to action for advocates to continue fighting for a more sustainable earth whilst also educating viewers on how climate change has affected the planet in the past 10 years since the premiere of the original film with both a scientific and political perspective.

Daniela Santos | News Editor

DU Clarion EDITORIAL STAFF

JOHN POE, Editor-in-Chief RYAN NINESLING, Executive Editor DANIELA SANTOS, News Editor NIKKY JOHNSON, Sports Editor ELIZABETH LOCHHEAD, Opinions Editor The Clarion is the official student newspaper of the University of Denver, serving as the “Voice of the Pioneers.”

Founded in 1899, it covers campus and local stories with the highest level of journalistic integrity possible. 1000 copies are distributed each Wednesday afternoon (throughout the academic year) across the DU campus, and every article is also published at duclarion.com. The Clarion does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty, staff and/or administration of DU, and the opinions expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion.

Reproduction of The Clarion in whole or part in any form written, broadcast or electronic without written permission of The Clarion is prohibited. The opinions expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of The Clarion. Weather forecasts are of courtesy of the National Weather Service. The Clarion reserves the right to reject advertising, stories, columns or letters to the editor that it deems graphic, obscene or that discriminate on the basis of race, culture, gender or sexual orientation.

The Clarion welcomes letters to the editor. Those who submit letters must limit them to 500 words. Some letters may not be published because of space limitations, overly-libelous content or similarity to past submissions. Please submit letters to duclarioneditor@gmail.com.

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The Clarion is open to contributors of all years and majors at DU, including both undergraduate and graduate students. There’s no application necessary; all you have to do is show up to one of our weekly meetings, which are held every Monday at 6 p.m. (during the academic year) in the Driscoll Underground. Can’t make it to a meeting? Send an email to duclarioneditor@gmail.com and we’ll do everything we can to get you published.

ANNMARIE MARLOW, Arts & Life Editor KENDALL MORRIS, Arts & Life Editor CAITLAN GANNAM, Photo/Video Editor GRACE HOUSER, Photo/Video Editor MONICA MCFADDEN, Podcast Editor JUSTIN CYGAN, Copy Editor MAYA PINON, Copy Editor ANDREW MATRANGA, Faculty Adviser Cover Photo Courtesy of Netflix

CONTRIBUTING STAFF HANNAH BRANIT CLAUDIA GLENN KATE POWELL

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SPORTS | 3

DU Hockey claims victory over Boston 4-3 and 6-1

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he No. 1 University of Denver Pioneers topped the No. 6 Boston University Terriers , 4-3, with a last minute, game-winning goal at Agganis Arena on Friday, Oct. 27 and then shot past the Boston College Eagles with a 6-1 victory on Saturday, Oct. 28.

In Friday’s game, Denver opened the scoring at 2:51 of the first period with freshman forward Jake Durflinger’s (Walnut Creek, Calif.) second goal of the season. Junior forward, Troy Terry (Highlands Ranch, Colo.) started the play, carrying the puck through the neutral zone before feathering a pass to junior forward Dylan Gambrell (Bonney Lake, Wash.) whose shot rebounded to Durflinger in front of the net.

One minute after taking a 1-0 lead, the Pioneers went on the power play and junior forward Colin Staub (Colorado Springs, Colo.) found a loose puck outside the crease to extend the lead. Sophomore forward

Liam Finlay (Kelowna, B.C.) and senior defenseman Adam Plant (Penticton, B.C.) had assists on the play.

Boston University responded to Denver’s early goals with a pair of its own. First, Ty Amonte received a pass from Drew Melanson and buried the shot past Pioneers goalie Tanner Jaillet (Red Deer, Alberta) to cut the lead in half. About two minutes later, the Terriers went on the power play and a between-thelegs pass from Jordan Greenway setup Bobo Carpenter for a goal at 12:38 of the first.

Before the end of the first period, Denver struck on the power play for the second time in the game. At 18:28 of the first period, sophomore forward Henrik Borgström (Helsinki, Finland) took the puck from Gambrell, fired a shot on net and Staub quickly located the rebound to put the Pioneers in front, 3-2, at the first intermission.

Terry’s goal with 16.1 seconds

remaining in regulation propelled the Pioneers past the Terriers.

After going 2/4 in a 4-3 win against No. 6 Boston University on Friday night, the Pioneers’ power play went 3/6 on Saturday and played a key role in the six-goal win.

“Looking at our team, that was the best performance of the year especially offensively. We really showed skill tonight,” said head coach Jim Montgomery. “We made a lot of plays and were really good at managing the puck.”

Gambrell opened the scoring on the Pioneers’ first power play of the game. At 11:57 of the first period, Gambrell received the puck from Terry and fired a shot past the blocker of Joseph Woll to make it 1-0. Freshman defenseman Ian Mitchell (Calahoo, Alberta) had the secondary assist on the goal.

Denver held a one-goal lead after 20 minutes.

The Pioneers continued their dominance on the man advantage at

1:15 of the second period when Borgström redirected a shot from Mitchell. Terry had an assist on the goal that put Denver in front, 2-0. Later in the second period, junior defenseman Blake Hillman (Elk River, Minn.) notched his first goal of the season with a shot immediately following Tyson McLellan’s faceoff win in the offensive zone.

Boston College scored their first and only goal of the game on the power play at 1:45 of the third period.

Chris Brown collected the puck on a redirection and beat Jaillet to make it a 3-1 game.

Hillman connected from the point at 14:26 of the third period to make it a 6-1 final. Staub and Gambrell assisted on Hillman’s goal to give Gambrell his 100th career point.

DU Hockey will head to Michigan for games on Friday, Nov. 3 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 4 at 5 p.m.

Nikky Johnson | Sports Editor

Erika Sobelman | Clarion

Pio Personality: Swim and Dive’s Heidi Bradley

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his week’s Pio Personality is swimmer Heidi Bradley from Victoria, B.C. Bradley is currently a senior but plans on studying and competing for Denver next year, as she still has a year of eligibility left. Bradley is pursuing a business management and finance major.

She describes herself as positive and a hard-worker, qualities that are readily apparent in Bradley’s accomplishments and represent DU Athletics with a recent Summit League Swimmer of the Week award.

Bradley’s goals with business and finance include working with Lululemon in their Elite Ambassador Program. Not only are Lululemon’s corporate offices based in her dream city, Vancouver, Canada, but she knows people who work at Lululemon and enjoy it. By working with Lululemon’s Elite Ambassador’s program, Bradley said she, “Would be able to do what I love right now, even when I’m not an athlete anymore.”

One person that has made a large impact on Bradley in her swimming career is retired marketing professor, Nancy Sampson. Sampson, Bradley said, “Comes to every single swim meet, so she knows a lot about swimming, [as well as] always bakes us cookies.” Bradley said she can talk to Sampson about anything. Bradley also credits Professors Paul Harrison and John Tripp, both professors with the school of accountancy, with helping her both in class and outside of class. She often goes to them for help outside of academics, like things such as taxes. For her, this is part of why

she enjoys DU so much.

The connection and balance between academics and athletics, as well as the amount of resources to succeed at DU are all things that Bradley loves about DU. When visiting other schools, Bradley said “I feel like some other schools there may be more pressure to succeed [in academics or sports].”

Among her greatest accomplishments in the pool, Bradley lists going to two Olympic trials in Montreal and Toronto, as well as attending the NCAA swim finals as a junior after attending as a second alternate her freshman year. Out of the pool, handling school well and making Dean’s List and being a Hornbeck Scholar are among Bradley’s personal favorite accomplishments. It is easy to see why Bradley considers diligence to be one of her best qualities.

Her hardwork to maintain good grades has helped Bradley earn a spot to study abroad in Netherlands next year, a decision Bradley made because it was one of the only trips that would fit into her schedule, as well as talking to other swimmers who enjoyed studying abroad in the Netherlands.

Bradley says that swimming is most definitely an escape for her, “It gives you two hours a day to think about things.” And although she pays attention to pace times and continues to work hard to improve, she says that “you’re also organizing your life.”

Bradley’s drive to improve and her strong work ethic are readily apparent both in and out of the pool. Bradley looks forward to continuing her hard work and representing the Pioneers.

Hannah Branit | Contributing Writer

Photo courtesy of DU Athletics

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| SPORTS

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Volleyball plays a perfect weekend, advancing to a 17-5 record

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ioneer Volleyball had a flawless weekend, claiming victory over both South Dakota State and North Dakota State in three sets.

The Pioneers have won their last five matches, four of which were straight-set wins.

Crimson and Gold Volleyball won a straight set victory over South Dakota State in Hamilton Gymnasium Friday, Oct. 27 evening. As a team, DU hit .306 with 52 kills, 49 assists, 51 digs, six service aces and five total team blocks.

Junior outside hitter, Becca Latham (Austin, Texas) and senior libero Cassidy Rooke (Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.) led the team with 15 kills and digs, respectively, while freshman setter Ellie Anderson (Cedar Rapids, Iowa) had 20 assists and three service aces to lead the Pioneers. Junior middle blocker Emma Willis (La Jolla, Calif.) controlled the net with three total blocks, one solo and two assisted. Latham hit a team and season-high .737 in the match.

“We were challenged tonight

by SDSU in a lot of different ways, but our team responded and we grew from this opportunity,” said head coach Tom Hogan. “We

adjusted well on our block and defense throughout the night and held South Dakota State to a .129 offensive efficiency.”

Set one was a close fight, containing five ties and two lead changes. The Pioneers started out with an early 4-1 lead, which would extend to 9-3, and force a South Dakota State timeout. Out of the timeout, the Jackrabbits scored three consecutive points to cut DU’s lead to 9-6. Denver held the lead until South Dakota State used a 5-0 run to take a 17-16 advantage.

After ties at 17, 18 and 19, Anderson put the Pioneers back in front for the rest of the set with back-to-back service aces to make it 21-19 in favor of Denver. Two Latham kills and a Latham-Willis block secured the opening set for the Pioneers at 25-22. Latham had seven kills, Rooke had seven digs and senior setter Piyusha Boteju (Euless, Texas) had seven assists in the first set. Rooke also had a service ace, which was the senior’s 100th career service ace. Tina Boe and senior rightside hitter Kayla Principato (Rockville Centre, N.Y.) combined for the other Denver block in the set. Crimson and Gold hit .188 with 17 kills, 25 digs, two total blocks

and three service aces.

In set two, the Jackrabbits scored the first point of the set, but DU responded with a 3-0 run to take the lead and held the lead for the remainder of the set. Denver went on a 6-0 run to push the lead to 10-3, and then had another 6-0 run later in the set for the 18-9 edge. Latham led the Pioneers again with four kills in the set, and Rooke added four more digs.

Anderson had seven of the team’s 13 assists in the set, and added another service ace. Senior outside hitter Cassie Baird (Indianapolis, Ind.) also had a service ace in the set, which were the only aces scored between both teams. Graduate student middle blocker Teal Schnurr (Westminster, Colo.) and Boe had an assisted block, and Latham and Willis teamed up again for another Pioneer block.

In the final set, the Pioneers took the first three points. The Jackrabbits would limit the DU lead down to one point several times throughout the early stages of the set, but were never able to gain a lead. Principato closed the match with six kills in the frame, and Anderson had eight assists for the Crimson and Gold.

On Sunday afternoon, Oct. 29,

the Denver women’s volleyball team won in straight sets after defeating the North Dakota State Bison (2521, 25-14, 25-18).

As a team, DU hit .339 in the match, while holding NDSU to .147.

Denver had 48 kills, 43 assists, 53 digs and seven total blocks, outperforming North Dakota State in all of the categories. DU added two service aces in the match.

Latham led the Pioneers with 13 kills, while Schnurr also had double-digit kills with 10. Anderson had another double-double, her third of the season, behind 23 assists and 13 digs, leading the team in assists. For the fifth match in a row, Anderson also recorded a service ace, bringing her season total to a team-high 23. Boe also had a service ace for the Pioneers, her fourth of the season. Boteju had 14 assists of her own in the match.

Latham added two solo blocks and assisted on two blocks to lead the team in total blocks. Rooke had a team-high 18 digs in the match.

Denver Volleyball plays Oral Roberts at home on Friday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m.

Nikky Johnson | Sports Editor

Erika Sobelman | Clarion

Caitlin Gannam | Clarion

Men’s Soccer wins Senior Night in overtime

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n Saturday, Oct. 28, Men’s Soccer hosted University of Nebraska Omaha for their Senior Night. The Pioneers equalized late in the match with 16 seconds left and scored on a penalty in the 93rd minute to keep their record perfect. The Pioneers are currently first in the Summit League with a perfect record of 4-0-0, and need a point at their game next week at Western Illinois University in order to take first seed in the 2017 Summit League Men’s Soccer Tournament. They will also receive the right to host the 2018 Summit League Men’s Soccer Championships.

Throughout the first half, Denver created excellent opportunities offensively as they outshot Omaha 8-2. However, the game remained tied at 0-0 until the 78th minute, when the visitors scored

the first goal of the game off of a long throw.

Following the goal, the Pioneers stepped up their efforts and junior Andre Shinyashiki (Sao Paulo, Brazil) headed in a cross from freshman Jacob Stensson (Stockholm, Sweden) in the last 16 seconds of the game to tie the game and bring it to overtime.

“It felt amazing, especially the way it happened, scoring with 16 seconds left against our biggest rivals in the league,” Shinyashiki said after the game. “I was the guy that missed my man on their goal, so I felt that I needed to do that to help the team.”

In overtime, the Pioneers continued with their momentum as they tried to end the game as early as possible. They were rewarded in the 93rd minute when a penalty was awarded to Denver after an Omaha handball occurred in the box.

Senior co-captain, Graham Smith (Highlands Ranch, Colo.) was able to convert the penalty shot and help preserve the Pioneer’s perfect record in the Summit League.

Seniors Blake Elder (Fort Worth, Texas), AJ Fuller (Littleton, Colo.), senior co-captain Alex Underwood (Winnetka, Ill.) and Smith, as well as former Pioneer Kortne Ford (Greeley, Colo.) were honored before the match. During their time with the Pioneers, the seniors helped lead the program to its first College Cup appearance in school history, as well as back-to-back undefeated regular seasons (2015-2016), and three straight NCAA tournament appearances and three straight Summit League regular season and tournament titles.

Besides their postseason success, the seniors have compiled impressive accomplishments during their Denver careers. Elder

made the 2016 Summit League Second Team. He has appeared in 24 matches, starting 13 of them as a striker in 2016. Fuller has appeared in 70 games with 50 starts. Underwood was selected to the Nov. 22, 2016 Top Drawer Team of the week as well as the 2017 Top Drawer Soccer Midseason 100. Smith made the 2016 Summit League Second Team as well as the Sept. 28, 2016 College Soccer News National Team of the Week. During his time with the Pioneers, Ford was selected for the Top Drawer Soccer Second Team All-American selection.

The Pioneers will close out their regular season next Saturday, Nov. 4 against Western Illinois. If they win a single point in the match, they will secure the number one seed in the Summit League Tournament.

Hannah Branit | Contributing Writer

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OPINIONS | 5

Pence and the handmaids in Denver V

ice President Mike Pence was in Denver on Oct. 26 to speak at a Republican fundraiser about the promised Republican tax overhaul, but attention for the event was mostly overshadowed by something else. Outside the Marriott Tech Center, more than 100 women protested, dressed in the red robes and white hats of Margaret Atwood’s “handmaids” (from the novel “The Handmaid’s Tale,” also recently a popular TV show). Women’s rights was the main focus of this protest, and Pence, who in March voted to pass legislation to allow states to withhold federal funds from Planned Parenthood, is a very visible target.

This is not the first time demonstrators have turned out to protest Pence’s position on women’s rights—there were large protests during the March For Life in January, where Pence spoke.

But there is another reason that women should oppose Pence, and that is his personal rule that he refuses to eat alone with another woman without his wife there, as described by a Washington Post profile. This statement proved very controversial as debate arose in favor and against such a seemingly antique rule. Causing fur-

ther concern, a New York Times poll found that a large portion of the population is also uncomfortable with these opposite-sex one-on-one interactions.

There are perhaps as many reasons for this as there are people surveyed. As the recent hashtag #MeToo has shown, most women encounter unwanted

But the concern that is also often raised is that one-on-one meetings are crucial to careers.

Holding back from trust-building interactions with coworkers can mean that women get fewer promotions or other opportunities.

This is a common argument, but another piece of it that we also must remember is that there are

Photo courtesy of Colorado Pols

sexual advances, and many of these happen in the workplace.

This harassment, as well as wariness from male coworkers that they will be accused, is a major reason why this discomfort exists.

Experiences people have had invisibly influence these survey results, as well as fears about incidents or accusations that might happen.

many individuals who, in certain workplace interactions with certain coworkers, are not uncomfortable. Sexual harassment is widespread and women are all too likely to encounter it in the workplace, but women should also be able to meet privately with a male coworker (and vice versa) if they feel comfortable doing so. Just as protesters demand a

woman’s right to choose when it comes to health, so should women be aware of harassment but able to meet with male coworkers if they so choose.

Of course, Pence is not placing formal restrictions on these kinds of meetings, but the discomfort he expresses can strengthen social norms that are even stronger than actual rules. We do need to meet those attitudes where they are—many women who have experienced or who fear harassment have reason to be uncomfortable, and aiming to curb sexual harassment in schools and work is what must be done if we hope to see different statistics. However, another thing we should be reminded of by the handmaids at the Marriott Tech Center is that women can decide for themselves. Until sexual harassment is not a daily concern in the workplace, women will be exercising discretion in interactions, but meetings with a trusted coworker of a different gender are not automatically inappropriate. Pence is hurting the chances of working women by thinking so, and this too is a stance worthy of resistance.

Elizabeth Lochhead | Opinions Editor

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| OPINIONS

PIONEER VOICES Question of the week:

What is the one song or artist that you think everyone should listen to?

“Everyone should listen to Beyoncé.”

“’Pink + White’ by Frank Ocean from the album ‘Blonde.’”

Makiyah Hainesworth, First Year

Brody Blackwell, First Year

“Everybody should listen to ‘Purple Rain’ by Prince because the lyrics are super deep.”

“Everyone should listen to Beyoncé because she’s amazing and we are lucky to live in the same time as her.”

Hannah Branit, First Year

Sherlock Crockett, Third Year

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OPINIONS | 7

Advil isn’t always the answer

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he common cold and the flu are making their first rounds of the season, and the rattling of bottles of Advil and other over-thecounter medications are what often rise up to meet them. Over 17 million Americans use drugs like Advil or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on a daily basis, often to treat symptoms of illness or pain such as fever, headache or joint stiffness. Occasional use following the dosage indicated on the bottle, or use as directed by a doctor, can be very beneficial in relieving some symptoms. However, we should be wary of the rate at which we are taking these drugs. Taking Advil or other NSAIDs often pose health risks of their own, and many people, including the perpetually-ill average college student, do not consider or are not aware of these risks before swallowing these little pills every four to six hours.

Proper dosage depends on multiple factors, such as age and what the medicine is being used for, and this outlined on the packaging of the medication or can be suggested by a doctor.

Even so, using NSAIDs often can lead to a variety of gastrointes-

tinal, renal and cardiovascular health problems. Frequent use of NSAIDs like Advil can cause bleeding in the stomach or intestines, which can occur without warning signs. Kidney damage and even renal failure can also result from NSAIDs, and the National Kidney Foundation suggests that while occasional use as directed is generally safe, these drugs can adversely impact kidney function. These drugs can also raise blood pressure and affect the heart.

For those who have used these drugs long-term or who already have a heart disease, chance of heart attack increases with use of these common drugs. Risk is often higher for people who are dehydrated, and being a smoker or a regular consumer of alcohol raises this risk.

This information should ring some major alarm bells for college students. Many students are already not in good health by the middle of the term—lack of exercise and sleep, poor diet, dehydration and frequent colds are commonly encountered problems. Research from the University of Tampa suggests that college students appear to be using over-the-counter medication at higher rates than

Photo courtesy of Reader’s Digest

the general public. Since stu- should also be conscious of alcodents are stressed and often hol consumption when using remain sick for a long time anti-inflammatory drugs since or get sick frequently, sus- regular drinking or even dehytained use of medications like dration after a night of heavy NSAIDs for these symptoms is drinking can increase chances of likely, and it is this sustained the above-mentioned problems. use that increases risk of These risks can seem less serihealth complications. ous when fellow classmates are Taking Advil or other over- taking over-the-counter medicathe-counter medications will tion for every mild cold or pain, usually be safe, especially if they but trying to avoid NSAID use, are only taken every so often, but or paying attention to proper they should certainly be used dosage when they are needed, is sparingly. Even if the bottle rec- something many more students ommends a dose every four to should practice. six hours, it is best to use overthe-counter medication only when it is necessary. Students Elizabeth Lochhead | Opinions Editor

PIONEER FUNNIES

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| ARTS

& LIFE

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Illegal Pete’s: A company dedicated to nonprofit fundraising Pete Turner | Tuscan Weekly

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very Illegal Pete’s location, including their Arizona branch, donated 20% of their proceeds to breast cancer on Oct. 26. The fundraiser “Burritos for Boobs” consequently raised $13,400 for the American Cancer Society with DU Colleges Against Cancer, and the money will help those in need of cancer care and treatment.

One employee in particular went above and beyond for the cause.

Gary Chernyavsky, who began working for Illegal Pete’s’ DU location in March of 2016, saved his tips for eight months to donate $1,000 on his own to ACS. I spoke to Chernyavsky to learn more about his own personal motivation for such a

generous donation.

“My mom had breast cancer, thyroid and parathyroid cancer at the same time,” said Chernyavsky.

“She managed to beat it, but if it weren’t for organizations like the ACS, there’s no way she would have been able to. Many people go through the horrors of having cancer and their friends and family suffer from it too. I hoped by giving a donation, it could help someone out the same way I was helped by it. A lot of people weren’t as lucky as we were.”

The Illegal Pete’s community is a tight knit group of Coloradans who are passionate about making good food fast. But, they’re also united in their unerring support for those closest to them and the

health of their local community, whether through their cooking or their fundraising.

Pete Turner, the owner and proprietor of what is quickly becoming the most popular fast-casual taco chain in Denver has long been known for his generosity. Their program “Starving Artists” feeds hundreds of touring bands as they come through Colorado for free through the Illegal Pete’s record label “Greater Than Collective.”

In my 2016 Ultra5280 interview with Virgil Dickerson, Illegal Pete’s marketing director and owner of the “Greater Than Collective,” Dickerson said, “It all starts with Pete. Pete is one of those rare business owners who

puts his people above profits.

It’s not that he doesn’t believe in profits, but he makes decisions based on whether it’s the right decision and not necessarily the decision that will make the most money. Pete recently did a wage increase across the entire company last year, not common for the restaurant industry.”

Illegal Pete’s hosts different fundraisers every month at every location to raise funds for nonprofits. Annually, they do monthlong fundraising efforts for Youth on Record and The Joshua School. On Colorado Gives Day, Pete’s partners with a different, local nonprofit to raise money.

Kendall Morris | Arts & Life Editor

Jessie Ware’s “Glass House”: a soulless pop-soul album Photo courtesy of Island Records

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essie Ware’s 2012 single “Wildest Moments” earned her an internationally prominent name. Five years later, it has earned her the less flattering title of “a one-hitwonder.” The artist’s new album “Glass House” teases you with greatness, but in the end, leaves you cold.

Despite the British singer’s multidimensional, soulful voice, she continues to obscure her talent behind maudlin lyrics and busy backtracks. In the song, “Your Domino” Ware’s tones shift skillfully from breathy cords to pointed high notes, and yet the vocals are blurred by quickpaced pop instrumentals. Only to further derail the singer’s depth, the lyrics express hollow, over-

worked themes with the intro: “if it’s alright I’d like to fall in front of you / and if there’s a fate, tell me it’s you / it’s black and white I don’t know why I’m so confused.”

While the lyrics may be steadily uninspired, each song’s sound seems to belong to a separate aesthetic. Likely this disunity is due to the myriad of artists that collaborated on (“Glass House”) from Justin Bieber, Julia Michaels (“Issues”) and Ryan Tedder (“Counting Stars”) to Benny Blanco, a producer and songwriter most known for the timeless ode “B.O.O.T.A.Y.” Such mainstream, middling names are a surprising shift in standards after Ware’s past collaborations with eccentric and thoughtful musicians like Devonté Hynes of

Blood Orange (“Augustine”) and Sampha, with whom she co-wrote the hypnotic single “Valentine.”

One of the only moments on the album when the lyrics and instrumentals support rather than suffocate is the song “Sam” which was written while the singer was in the last trimester of her pregnancy with her first child. Absorbed in the emotions of approaching motherhood, the song is written like a letter addressed to her husband, expressing feelings of both anxiety and gratitude. The intimate, emotive nature of the words are underscored by soft acoustic melodies.

The leading single “Midnight” is another rare moment of harmony with a heavy, pulsating

beat eerily reminiscent of “Bennie and the Jets.” While recycling the iconic piano line seems like a cheap shot, Ware warps the track with her raspy, soulful tones creating a strange, almost ethereal effect that accredits the inspiration while venturing into a space of its own.

These fleeting bursts of brilliance are due primarily to the fact that the music is stripped down enough to display Ware’s extraordinary range, leading to the conclusion that “Glass House’s” biggest issues are rooted in the disjointed music and voice.

Ware needs to abandon the pop in her pop-soul and let her artistry speak for itself.

AnnMarie Marlow | Arts & Life Editor

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ARTS & LIFE | 9

Edgar Allan Poe is Dead and So is my Cat Kate Powell | DU Clarion

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his Halloween weekend, the small black box stage at the Buntport Theatre hosted a 90-minute examination of tone, tailoring and Boston Market rotisserie chicken.

First on stage That One Guy and His Sister, gathered together in what should be a solemn occasion to remember and bury the titular dead cat, Mr. Batman. However, the tone is not exactly mournful as one of the characters is proudly showing his Baltimore Ravens briefs. His sister didn’t like the suit he had chosen, so he took it off.

He rambles about Edgar Allan Poe incessantly, to the dismay of His Sister, His Best Friend (who arrives later to boost the numbers of the sad occasion) and eventually, of Burt.

Burt’s introduction is where the merely unique becomes genuinely absurd. He is the discarded suit, another man’s suit bought from a thrift store to commemorate, who else, but Edgar Allan Poe, who was found and died in another man’s suit.

That One Guy leaves the suit in a pile of leaves in the yard, but after a brief blackout, the suit arises, and begins to address the audience. He is self-deprecating and awkward, yet eloquent in his portrayal of the characters and use of literary anecdote.

From there things become more absurd, That One Guy invites Burt onto his Poe-themed podcast and becomes possessive of the suit for his speaking ability. His Sister invites Burt to watch her massage

her face and to go out for Chipotle.

And His Best Friend begins to hate Burt for stealing the attention from That One Guy, and he attempts to win it back via Poe themed shirts.

The show is weird, but uniquely appealing for all its quirks. The plotline is self-aware and clever, using numerous fourth-wall breaks and direct asides. While Burt and That One Guy discuss whether there is truly a difference between the Creepy and the Absurd, they are within a play that embraces both.

It should be noted that one searching for a moral to this production would be loath to find one.

While Poe once stated that it was necessary to have an ending and the tone of a work in mind while creating, this work seems to have neither.

It simply ends with little explanation of the things that had unfolded, as if that was the goal all along.

The special effects were not entirely convincing. It was easy to see the figure behind the suit, and the lightening effects were nothing if not exaggerated. But within the setting of the Absurd, where it is reasonable for clothing to come to life and for Boston Market rotisserie chicken to be lauded above all other chickens, this seems fitting..

Using awkward yet self-aware humor and a complete disregard for reality, Buntport Theatre creates a uniquely spooky comedic production that you can and should see through Nov. 18.

Kate Powell | Contributing Writer

The Grind: Bellwether Coffee on Colfax

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n the corner of Colfax Avenue and Forest Street sits a unique shop that caters to those who seek a community of like-minded creatives and to those who seek a drink. Bellwether, East Denver neighborhood bar, coffee house and barbershop, goes above and beyond in providing a relaxed, welcoming space.

In a world teeming with replicants of the same trendy coffee shop crammed with metal tabletops and baristas in leather aprons, Bellwether’s style is very much of it’s own, with an aesthetic nod to old-school motorcycle culture. The color scheme is black and white, with handpainted murals in the minimalist style, throughout the store. These are often accompanied by mottos like the one at the front of the store showing a cow, “Whiskey,” flanked by two dancing wolves, “Coffee” and “Beer.”

Written beneath is: “here we are all winners.”

Choosing from the best, often local sources, Bellwether’s signature coffee blend is an aromatic brew that sticks to your lungs — the coffee of cowboys. You can order a diner cup or a pour over, as well as the classic array of espresso drinks.

Each is served in locally crafted

ceramic mugs and glassware.

Iced drinks are served in strange, warped cups that look like they were placed in the furnace a few too many hours.

If you’d like to watch grown men and women run to the counter like little kids at a candy store, make sure you’re in the shop right as the clock strikes 5:00 p.m. when the barista kicks off the night by offering free shots of Bulleit whiskey. Along with their nitro Bulleit, Bellwether has a diverse menu of artisan cocktails and draft beers.

With the old fashioned barber shop tucked away in the back and a cellar-like room downstairs used for events like art exhibits and film screenings, Bellwether embraces the phrase “there’s more than meets the eye.” They even showcase the Denver based brand Ruckus, a clothing line of innovative, highquality streetwear.

Printed on the back of their menus is the motto: “coffee, clothes or booze/ at Bellwether you don’t have to choose.” From great coffee to free shots and regulars who look like they stepped right off of the cover of a Rolling Stones album, Bellwether is undeniably one of the coolest spots in Denver.

AnnMarie Marlow | Arts & Life Editor

AnnMarie Marlow | Clarion

Photo courtesy of AnnMarie Mar

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Frank Ocean’s “Visual Essay” is a testament of multifaceted artistry

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rank Ocean is perhaps one of the most elusive figures in the modern music industry.

Known for avoiding interviews, photographs, social media and even performances, his mystery makes a release like his recent visual essay on i-D particularly intriguing.

This artistic endeavor, including a 32-page photo portfolio, two covers and a short essay, is part of the “Sounding Off” issue of i-D released this month. Keeping up with the modern times, the project can be viewed online for free.

In 2016, along with the release of “Blonde,” his revered return to music after “Channel Orange,” Ocean published an exclusive 350-page

Photo courtesy of i-D

magazine titled “Boys Don’t Cry” with contributions from German photographer Wolfgang Tillmans and Kanye West. The i-D visual essay serves as a small taste of “Boys Don’t Cry” without the outrageous Ebay prices upwards of $500.

Ocean’s success in his photographs is evidence of his unique artistic abilities. He is able to use various mediums to discuss the topics of music, race, sexuality and pop culture. While many famous pop stars rely on Twitter or interviews to express their opinions, Ocean lets his art speak for itself. The i-D visual essay depicts the stages of his musical process and includes various portraits, both of himself and of the

people who make his music possible.

The portfolio is inspired by Ocean’s 2017 festival season experience where he gave large audiences surprisingly intimate performances.

The surreal images and crowded scenes capture the sun-soaked, magical spirit of summer days. Along with the magic of festivals, Ocean also focuses on the power of saying “yes” in both his photos and his essay. He states, “You can answer a lot of questions with ‘Yes.’ But you can answer many more with ‘No.’ No is run of the mill. Yes is a gem.”

In many of Ocean’s songs, his lyrics express a dark side that is validated by his introverted personality.

The visual essay’s lighthearted photos

and positive outlook contrast this characterization, giving an intimate look into a complex individual. Perhaps his new era of “yes” will expose even more of Ocean’s many idiosyncrasies that he previously veiled in mystery.

Although Ocean’s next move is almost always kept secret, he gives an optimistic hint for the year to come, stating, “If you liked 2017 then you’ll love 2018.” In his typical fashion, though, his next project will likely be released without warning. Until then, all we can do is wait in anticipation to see what artistic endeavor he will undertake.

Claudia Glenn | Contributing Writer

John Green’s new novel is a must-read tale on mental illness Photo courtesy of The Tracking Board

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ollowing the inescapable best-selling novel turned film, “The Fault in Our Stars” author and notable internet personality John Green returns with another emotional tale in “Turtles All the Way Down.”

The novel focuses on 16-yearold Aza Holmes who, alongside her best friend Daisy, discovers that there is a $100,000 reward being offered for whoever can help find the missing billionaire, Russell Pickett. In attempts to uncover the case, Aza reunites with her childhood friend Davis Pickett.

So much more than a mystery, “Turtles” invites its readers into the mind of a young woman with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in a manner that is genuine

and graceful. Aza’s thought spirals are scattered throughout the story and when they occur, one is left feeling just as distraught and helpless as she is.

For a topic that is so often misunderstood or seen as a burden, Green—who writes from personal experience—handles the sensitive subject matter of mental illness with compassion. The accounts displayed in “Turtles” are not romanticized or sugar-coated.

Instead, the vulnerable moments leave readers empathizing with Aza whilst also seeing her as so much more than her illness.

This kind of complexity is spread throughout the other characters as well. Taking place in Indianapolis, the ordinary set-

ting creates the perfect stage for Green’s articulate and philosophical teenagers—a detail that, at this point, is a staple for his stories.

With each character comes greater exploration into dilemmas that are often overlooked. Davis has a rocky relationship with his father but, because of his disappearance, he now must learn how to be there for his little brother.

Daisy, despite being Aza’s opposite (chatty, flamboyant and open,) has her own challenges behind the scenes but still manages to be there for Aza even when she cannot fully understand her OCD. Charming moments of wit and quirkiness do arise throughout Turtles. From celebratory Applebee’s visits, Chewbacca and Rey

fanfiction and relatable awkward first-love interactions, the novel does give readers sighs of relief which are necessary before returning to Aza’s mind.

“Turtles' is beautifully sincere.

The interactions between Aza and her doctor as she tries to put Aza’s mind at ease, (“‘I doubt, therefore I think, therefore I am’”) or Davis’s blog posts where he responds to literary quotes (“Life is a series of choices between wonders”) are just some of the abundant moments that Green sprinkles in the novel that look into the state of being human. There will surely be a moment that will resonate with any reader.

Daniela Santos | News Editor

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“Stranger Things 2” takes a trip to the dark side— and finds its soul in the process

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ast year’s Netflix hit “Stranger Things” seemingly came out of nowhere to transport to an exceedingly pulpy yet beautifully human world where 80’s adventure, science-fiction and horror collided to create a homage unlike anything television had ever seen.

It was a meticulously crafted love letter, one whose aesthetic was matched only by the strength of its fascinating characters the performances that defined them. The show’s one major problem was it relied perhaps a bit too heavily on homage; often it felt that the show had more to say, but was silenced by its propensity for reference and genre trappings. Luckily, “Stranger Things 2,” the new season billed like a blockbuster sequel, wisely begins to abandon this system in order to explore what really lies at its heart.

Set a year after the events of the previous season, this new iteration opens around the anniversary of Will Byers’ (Noah Schnapp, “The Peanuts Movie”) disappearance, and things are feeling somber in the characters’ home of Hawkins, Indiana. Those involved with saving Will are still quietly suffering from the trauma of their battle with the UpsideDown; Mike’s (Finn Wolfhard, “It”) longing for the return of his psionic love interest Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) is making him lash out, his sister Nancy (Natalia Dyer, “Hannah Montana: The Movie”) still mourns for the loss of her beloved friend Barb and Will’s mother Joyce (Winona Ryder, “Beetlejuice”) and police chief Jim Hopper (David Harbour, “Revolutionary Road”) can’t shake their paranoia that a storm is brewing. Most importantly, Will is haunted by visions of a growing force in the Upside-Down and increasingly begins to lose his grip on his reality as Joyce and Hopper’s fears begin to become true.

This season takes a lot of risks, and overall it succeeds marvelously.

The feeling of the show itself is dis-

tinctly different; while it’s still one of the most wildly entertaining shows we’ve seen in some time, there is a quiet ache to the proceedings that sets it apart from the first season.

While some criticized the first season for lacking any real portrayal of the effects of trauma, particularly in relation to Barb’s death, this season’s slow pacing allows its characters to take time to sift through and expose their true feelings. The show has a lot to say about how trauma can take away everything from us; and also how it can bond us together. While it isn’t an entirely successful choice to separate this deeply interesting ensemble of characters for such long periods of time (Eleven’s highly touted return is in particular a weak point of the season), it does give the characters the opportunity to move beyond tropes and develop as complex individuals. Then, when they are at their strongest, they reunite to fight against not just the monsters, but their own emotional pain. It’s a poignant, if overly patient, pace that proves the show is often more intelligent than it lets on.

New additions to the show, including 80’s mainstays like Paul Reiser (“Aliens”) and Sean Astin (“The Lord of the Rings”) bring a lot to the already impressive collection of characters, who again offer the most compelling performances on television. While Reiser and Astin are fun to watch, the returning child cast members continue to steal the show, especially Gaten Matarazzo, who shines once again as the endlessly lovable and compelling Dustin.

Schnapp, who had only a small role in the first season, runs away with it in his now series regular role, bringing the appropriate amount of fear and pain to the role of boy constantly plagued by visions of another dimension. These are only small slices of a uniformly fine cast, who not only bring the strangeness of “Stranger Things” to life, but its humanist soul as well.

Photo courtesy of Netflix

Ryan Ninesling | Executive Editor Photo courtesy of Netflix

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