Hyperloop trains could carry passengers to future of travel PAGE 31
PAGE 13 Volume 53, Issue 22
March 5, 2018
ColumbiaChronicle.com
“Pretty Woman: The Musical” debuts at Oriental Theatre » KEVIN TIONGSON/CHRONICLE
Registrar to centralize course scheduling THE COLLEGE IS planning the centralization of course registration, including changes to course numbers and academic scheduling with departments and the Office of the Registrar. During a Jan. 25 meeting held at 600 S. Michigan Ave., school deans, associate deans, the Office of the Registrar, department chairs and staff who assist with academic scheduling, Senior Vice President and Provost Stan Wearden and Senior Associate Provost Suzanne Blum-Malley discussed the shift, which would be implemented with the help of new software. The college’s current decentralized model of scheduling, for which each department handles its own schedule, will be changed to a centralized or “intentional” model, college spokeswoman Anjali Julka said.
» ZOË HAWORTH/CHRONICLE
» ERIC BRADACH MANAGING EDITOR THE RACE FOR Illinois governor has become a crowded and heated contest. The eight-candidate field to claim the Republican or Democratic ticket has triggered a plethora of attack ads—not just between candidates in opposing parties but also heavy criticism of members with in their own party. However, with two Republicans and six Democrats, it can be difficult to differentiate who will be on the March 20 primary ballot box without some background. The Chronicle compiled an email Q&A with all those vying to become the state’s chief executive. All candidates were asked to answer the same three questions on issues deemed important to Columbia students to help them make a well-informed decision when they head to the polls.
SEE GOVERNOR, PAGE 20
Governor candidates divulge plans for reducing student debt
Julka did not provide The Chronicle interviews with Wearden and Registrar Keri Walters but instead provided emailed statements from the News Office and Wearden. Julka said Wearden and Walters discussed the standardized software system’s benefits with coordinating academic scheduling at the college. Wearden has also ordered the Office of the Registrar to explore software options, according to a Jan. 31 emailed statement to The Chronicle. “This system would potentially facilitate a more streamlined and holistic registration experience for students, and would increase use of underutilized classroom facilities and timeframes,” the statement read. “Additionally, the Office of the Registrar will work with students, staff and other stakeholders over the duration of this multi-year project to obtain input and feedback.”
SEE SCHEDULING, PAGE 9
» ARIANA PORTALATIN MANAGING EDITOR
editor’s note
Supportive schools will be on the right side of history
MANAGEMENT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITORS
S
tudents have powerful voices, whether they are in college or high school. This isn’t a secret, but it seems to still surprise people when students get angry, protest and march for what they believe in. Young people have defined protests across history: the early 20th century suffragettes, the Civil Rights and Vietnam War protesters of the 1960s, today’s Black Lives Matter marchers. These groups have caused and are still causing change. After the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, claimed 17 lives, the school’s students decided to use their voices to fight for something they believe in: gun control. These students’ actions have galvanized high schoolers from across the country who are tired of feeling ignored and unrepresented. Students nationwide are holding moments of silence, walk-outs and other peaceful protests. But some of their schools aren’t exactly supportive. A few high schools have made public statements reiterating their attendance policies and letting students know they could or will be suspended if they participate in the walk-outs. These include the Spring Independent School District in Texas, the Waukesha School District in Wisconsin and the Needville Independent School District also in Texas. Riverview Gardens High School students in Missouri protested against gun violence Feb. 27 and were told by their school that they would not be allowed back into school that day or allowed to ride school buses home. After these statements provoked social media backlash, the school districts either toned down their remarks or got rid of them entirely. Spring has yet to go back on its policy, but Waukesha stated Feb. 22—just a day after the initial statement—that students who are called out of school by parents will not face punishment. Riverview eventually reversed its decision and allowed students to ride the bus. Needville didn’t go back on its Feb. 20 Facebook statement, but by Feb. 22, the school’s Facebook page was no longer active. “Please be advised that the Needville ISD will not allow a student demonstration during school hours for any type of protest or awareness!!” Superintendent Curtis Rhodes said in the statement, 2 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
DIGITAL MANAGING EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR AD & BUSINESS MANAGER
CAMPUS REPORTERS
CAMPUS Tessa Brubaker Olivia Deloian Molly Walsh
ARTS & CULTURE
ARTS & CULTURE REPORTERS
adding that any participants will be suspended for three days. METRO REPORTERS However, a Feb. 22 article from DallasNews.com pointed out that when 15,000 Needville ISD students stayed home to protest on A Day Without OPINIONS EDITOR Immigrants in February 2017, the district just gave the students unexcused absences and took no further action. I between COPY CHIEF wonder what is the difference COPY EDITORS the two protests? I mean, other than that this one is about gun control and Needville ISD is located in one of the most pro-gun states in the country. GRAPHIC DESIGNERS But these school districts will realize eventually—if they haven’t already—they ADVERTISING DESIGNER are the bad guys in this situation. They aren’t the hero saving the princess from the big bad world. They are the evil step potential. SENIOR PHOTO EDITORS mother stifling the princess’s And while it is the job of the schools to STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS keep their students safe during school hours, and a walk-out could cause safety concerns, threats aren’t the way to go. Be more like Anne Arundel County Public MULTIMEDIA EDITOR MULTIMEDIA REPORTERS Schools in Maryland, a district that is working with student leaders on how they can safely and peacefully protest, according to a Feb. 22 BuzzFeed News article. MEDIA SALES REPS Even if high schools may not be supporting their students, colleges nationwide MARKETING ASSISTANT are. More than 200 colleges as of press time have made statements that any disciplinary action on a high schooler’s record from participating in WEBMASTER peaceful ONLINE CONTENT PRODUCER protests will not be counted against their possible admission. Although Columbia has not made an official statement, Senior OFFICE ASSISTANT Director of Admissions and Recruitment Derek Brinkley tweeted that Columbia will not hold non-violent expressions GENERAL MANAGER of protests against anyone during FACULTY ADVISER admissions, which was retweeted by ASSISTANT FACULTY ADVISER Columbia’s Twitter account. So high school students, grab your poster boards, lace up your marching shoes and get those college personal statements ready because you’ll have a hell of a story to tell. zeitel@columbiachronicle.com
» ZOË EITEL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Zoë Eitel Eric Bradach Ariana Portalatin Brooke Pawling Stennett Zoë Haworth Micha Thurston
Mayan Darbyshire Miranda Manier
METRO Savannah Eadens Blaise Mesa
OPINIONS Tyra Bosnic
COPY Lauren Carlton Jay Berghuis McKayla Braid
GRAPHICS Samantha Conrad Zack Jackson Jocelyn Moreno Hannah Li Anderson
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Columbia alumni release documentary about skateboarding cross country » Page 6 Google, it means king. With Nova in front of it, it means empress of the galaxy.
Student blurs gender norms with new drag show » OLIVIA DELOIAN CAMPUS REPORTER
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oah Spiegel-Blum, a junior theatre major, has been a performer for about 13 years. After getting into drag in 2015, Spiegel-Blum delivers performances that combine a musical theatre background and drag. Spiegel-Blum, whose drag name is Novaczar, now has a new show titled Supernova, an homage to Sasha Velour’s “Nightgowns,” which started Jan. 9 and will continue every second Tuesday of the month. With various themes for each event at North Bar, 1637 W. North Ave., the overall goal is to bring the colorful Chicago drag scene to neighborhoods beyond Boystown. The Chronicle spoke with SpiegelBlum about their drag personality, the excitement of having a new show as well as the potential of being on the TV show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” THE CHRONICLE: How did you get involved with drag? NOAH SPIEGEL-BLUM: When I was a junior in high school, I was really into this person who identified as gender
non-conforming, and they did drag and sometimes female impersonations. But there were other times where it was strictly androgynous, and I was so drawn to it. It stemmed from my musical theater background, and I’ve always been drawn to the powerful, passionate female characters in musical theater anyway, until it kind of made sense for me to start getting into drag, impersonating a female and blurring the gender line. I started asking if I could watch this person do their makeup and get ready, and then I started to assist and go to their drag shows. And then I was like, “Let me just try this out myself.” And it blossomed from there. How did you come up with your drag name? When I was in elementary school, I was obsessed with this girl named Nova because it sounded a lot like Noah. When I realized I wanted to be in drag, I was like, “Nova has to be in my drag name because it’s such a dimension.” It’s been something I was looking for so long for some reason, and then one day I was walking by Zara and I was like NovaZara. People are gonna think I’m copying Zara, [so] I took off an A and [it became] Novaczar. If you type in “czar” on
What inspired SuperNova? Sasha Velour is the current reigning “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 9 drag superstar. She is my favorite drag queen of all time. She’s from Brooklyn and started a show there called “Nightgowns” that stems from people coming to a space where they can feel their gender is non-existent, and race isn’t an issue. They’re each viewed individually and you only can enter that world in your dreams because that’s obviously not reality. So that’s why it’s called “Nightgowns.” It’s where people can sit down and enjoy drag for what it is and take it in. It was always my dream to create something exactly like that and follow in Sasha’s footsteps. I reached out to a bar I performed at before in Wicker Park, and I booked queens from all over Chicago and paid them with my own money, and then I get a profit for what comes through the door. I’m not in it for the profit; I’m just in it to give drag another demographic than Boystown, but I’m also toying with bringing it to Boystown for a larger audience. What is the theme for March? It’s going to be Oz, for the whole St. Patrick’s Day theme with a little gay twist. For February it was Lost Love, and then for [January] it was Premier Moment. Do you hope to get involved in “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Maybe one day. It’s not as easy as people think it is, but you know I don’t have a group following, I don’t have the wardrobe or the connections to drop everything and in two weeks you’re filming and you’re gone for
two months and there’s so much that goes into it that people don’t understand. So until I’m ready for that kind of commitment, I won’t be auditioning. But maybe in the next 5 years if “RuPaul’s Drag Race” is still running and I feel that Novaczar as a persona is ready for that, then absolutely. What would you like people to understand about the drag world? What people should understand about the drag world is that it is an art form. One of the most [common] misconceptions about it is that it’s only female impersonations. Drag is anything you want it to be. There’s no set rules about drag, and that’s what’s so beautiful about it is that it can be as creative and vulnerable as you possibly want it to. And it’s a form of your own self. When I’m as Novazcar, I feel 110 percent authentically me. I go on the train in drag all the time. Is it safe? I don’t know. But if I god forbid ever get attacked in drag, as long as I am in [it] being authentically me then there is some truth and wholesomeness in that because I’m standing up for my community, and drag queens are the forefront leaders of the queer scene. What is your biggest goal in the drag world? Definitely to feel like a queer figure, that’s the ultimate goal whether it be with the help of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” or word of mouth and creating my own work. I love the idea of integrating musical theater and drag into one art form. I do a lot of musical theatre in my drag. Because it’s so close to my heart, and any form of blurring the gender that people in the spectrum of a normal binary understand is what I’m passionate about.
odeloian@columbiachronicle.com
campus
» COURTESY PHOTOS/NOAH SPIEGEL-BLUM
Noah Spiegel-Blum, junior theatre major, has created their own drag show titled “Supernova” with themed shows held every other Tuesday in Wicker Park to bring the Chicago drag scene beyond Boystown.
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 3
» TESSA BRUBAKER CAMPUS REPORTER THE COLUMBIA RENEGADES is starting two new campus organizations: Renegades Outdoor Collective and Marching Band. Matt Coyle, president of the Student Athletic Association and a senior business and entrepreneurship major, said the two organizations held meetings for interested students Feb. 23. Coyle said the Renegades Outdoor Collective will be an opportunity for students to get out of the city and appreciate nature. The organization has plans to visit locations outside the city and hold its meetings in Grant Park, he added. Kate Liddy, president of the Renegades Outdoor Collective and a sophomore photography major, said she wants to create a community for every student to
come together and value nature as an organization. “I’m from Austin, Texas, and there’s a lot of nature out there and it’s an outdoorsy city in general and so coming here, the main thing I miss the most is being outside all the time,” Liddy said. Liddy said the organization will try to go on one big trip every semester like this semester’s camping trip in the Indiana Dunes. A marching band has been considered by the organization for about a year but was officially launched in the past month, Coyle said. The large amount of interest in the marching band was a surprise, Coyle added, which makes him excited to see where it goes. “We have Manifest and there’s no marching band for Manifest,” Coyle said. “There’s a lot of effort into it but you can’t have a parade without a band. That’s filling a need and a void in Columbia.”
Matt Coyle, president of the Student Athletic Association and a senior business and entrepreneurship major, said he is excited to join Renegades Outdoor Collective and be with nature.
Shay Van Lue, the marching band’s president and a freshman cinema and television arts major, said she is excited to be involved in a marching band post-high school since it was such a large part of her life. There are about 30 students who are interested, she added. “In high school, marching band was my life. I did it all four years in high school, I was a section leader for the last two years and I was
PRE-BROADWAY WORLD PREMIERE
so into it and I’m still into it,” Van Lue said. Van Lue added that the marching band will have to overcome a few obstacles before they start performing, such as finding instruments and getting uniforms. Despite this, the organization is looking forward to watching the team grow when they start to perform at different events throughout the college.
Coyle said it is important for students to get involved in Renegades’ organizations because everyone needs to be physically active and be involved with a team during their college years. “Everyone needs to be going out and taking a walk to and from the el, it doesn’t matter, that’s physical activity,” Coyle said. “We try and make it fun.”
The Music Center at Columbia College Chicago 1014 S. Michigan Avenue
M u s i c
D e p a r t m e n t
Monday March 5 Meet the Artist with Cory Henry Hip Hop Ensemble in Concert MU S I C & LY R I C S B Y
BRYAN ADAMS & JIM VALLANCE BOOK BY
GARRY MARSHALL & J. F. LAWTON
Based on the Touchstone Pictures motion picture written by J.F. LAWTON DIRECTED & CHOREOGRAPHED BY
JERRY MITCHELL 5 WEEKS ONLY MARCH 13 - APRIL 15 PrettyWomanTheMusical.com ·
4 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
tbrubaker@columbiachronicle.com
New Marching Band, Renegades Outdoor Collective welcomed
» ZACHARY KELTNER/CHRONICLE
campus
Wednesday March 7 Wednesday Noon Guitar Concert Series at the Conaway Center ChicagoVox in Concert
E v e n t s
12:00 pm 7:00 pm
12:00 pm 7:00 pm
Friday March 9 Spanish and Catalan Music for Violin and Piano 7:00 pm Cory Henry Residency Concert 7:00 pm For Tickets, call 312-369-8330, or visit tickets.colum.edu
campus THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT AT COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO PRESENTS:
CORY HENRY RESIDENCY CONCERT March 9, 7 p.m. Music Center Concert Hall 1014 S. Michigan Ave. $20 General Admission $10 Family of Performers, Faculty, and Staff $ 5 Students with ID For tickets, call 312-369-8330 or visit tickets.colum.edu
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 5
campus
» TESSA BRUBAKER CAMPUS REPORTER
» COURTESY MICHAEL KOSCIESZA
ARTHUR SWIDZINSKI, 2010 television alumnus, set out to travel to New York City on June 2, 2008, with his friends. Instead of driving or flying, they decided to travel 1,000 miles on skateboards and film the experience.
Almost an entire decade later, the documentary “Shred America” is set to premiere March 24 at The Patio Theatre, 6008 W. Irving Park Road. In 2007, Swidzinski and Michael Kosciesza were 20 when they decided to skateboard from The Bean in Millennium Park to Times Square and saved up money
for a year to do so. James Lagen and Anthony Michal, followed on bicycles and shot more than 100 hours of footage over the 36-day journey, Swidzinski said. Kosciesza and Michal were both students at Columbia for a short time. Swidzinski said they encountered problems along the way because he and Kosciesza were not properly prepared. “That’s what made the film special in the end because we didn’t plan it [and], so many things went wrong,” Swidzinski said. “When
Michael Kosciesza, one of the skateboarders in “Shred America,” said one of his favorite memories was watching Arthur Swidzinski and James Lagen get chased off a farm by a dog, one of the scenes in the documentary.
THE
we left, we just didn’t know what we were doing and it ended up bettering the film because of that.” Michal said he had known Swidzinski and Kosciesza since they were teenagers and came along when they asked him to help film the documentary. Lack of clean water and bad weather conditions were among the many problems, he added. “We [were in our early 20s] and it was ‘go test your body as much as you can,’” Michal said. Right before they reached New York City, Kosciesza said they were stopped by police officers along U.S. Route 1 in New Jersey. The officers threatened to arrest the four if they continued, so they were forced to take the train all the way to Manhattan. “Part of filmmaking is like how do you structure the story, how do you make it so people could get something out of it and we actually put all of that into the film, our struggle and sort of our failure to make it to New York on skateboards,” Kosciesza said. “But we did make it and when the viewers
Columbia
see us in Times Square, they’ll see the look on our faces.” After returning from their journey, Swidzinski said they sat on the footage for a while to figure out how they would tell the story. It took years to edit it down to the right length because he and Kosciesza lived on opposite sides of the country. “There’s so many projects out there that are started, but they never get finished and ‘Shred America’ was close to being a project like that. What changed about me is having this deep-seated perseverance,” Swidzinski said. Swidzinski said after the documentary premieres in Chicago, he and Kosciesza will hop in a van and travel with the film all around the country to talk about the positives of going on an adventure like theirs. “I tell people when they watch this film, when they see us go through all these challenges, and all of the difficult times we had, you’re going to know how not to get to New York City,” Swidzinski said. tbrubaker@columbiachronicle.com
Alumnus takes road less traveled to NYC
YOU AND A GUEST ARE INVITED TO AN ADVANCE SCREENING
C HRONICLE
INVITE YOU TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING Stop by the offices of the Columbia Chronicle located at 33 East Congress, Suite 224 (312) 369-8999
Stop by the offices of the Columbia Chronicle
for your chance to win a pass for two to the special advance screening on Wednesday, March 7. No purchase necessary. One pass per person. Screening passes valid strictly for Columbia College Chicago students, staff, and faculty only and are distributed at the discretion of the promotional partner. Those that have received a screening pass or promotional prize within the last 90 days are not eligible.
IN CHICAGO THEATERS MARCH 9 ThoroughbredsMovie |
located at 33 East Congress, Suite 224, Chicago, IL 60605
for your chance to win a pass for two to the special advance screening on Tuesday, March 6. No purchase necessary, while supplies last. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. A limited number of passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Please refer to screening passes for all other restrictions. Limit one admit-two pass per person. Screening passes valid strictly for Columbia College Chicago students, staff, and faculty only and are distributed at the discretion of the promotional partner. Those that have received a screening pass or promotional prize within the last 90 days are not eligible. This film is rated R for horror violence and terror throughout, and for language.
IN THEATERS MARCH 9 @TheStrangers | #PreyAtNight
Thorougbreds | #Thoroughbreds
6 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018 COLUMBIA CHRONICLE
COLUMBIA CHRONICLE
» OLIVIA DELOIAN CAMPUS REPORTER COLUMBIA ALUMNUS MICHAEL Jolls takes a critical look at “The Films of Steven Spielberg,” in his second book, a complex examination of the renowned director’s life and body of work. Jolls, a producer and 2010 film student, said the book, published by Create Space, took him about a year to complete and will be released the second week of March. This is Jolls’ second book, following “The Films of Sam Mendes,” which was released in 2016, published by Under One Hour. Jolls said after deciding to write a second book, his publicist sparked his interest in writing about Spielberg. Noting it was a formidable task to research Spielberg extensively,
Jolls said he culled information by reading other books and watching interviews with Spielberg in addition to all of his films. Jolls said he first worked on the biographical portion of the book, and it was a challenge to respectfully represent Spielberg’s family but he was able to do so with the intense research. “When writing the book, I wanted to make sure that I didn’t disrespect his family,” Jolls said. “I was very careful on how I wrote about that. Luckily there was a documentary that came out in October 2017 where Spielberg, his father, mother and all of his sisters were interviewed, and they laid out the answers to these kind of questions.” Another major influence on Jolls as an author is his former professor, Laurence Knapp, he said.
Michael Jolls, 2010 film alumnus, said “The Films of Steven Spielberg” took him about a year to complete, combining biography and analysis.
After taking an “Introduction to Film” course at Oakton Community
College in Des Plaines, Illinois, with Knapp, Jolls said they kept in touch. In 2014, Knapp wrote “David Fincher: Interviews,” using Jolls as assistant editor for the book. After mastering the research process, Jolls became comfortable writing his own book, he added. “[Knapp] showed me how to do it,” Jolls said. “I credit him in a big way in how both of these books came to [exist] because of him.”
Knapp, a Humanities and Film Studies professor at Oakton, said Jolls as a student demonstrated a keen interest in the art and process of cinema that would later be beneficial to him in the writing process of the book. “[Jolls] is sort of a cinematic true believer,” Knapp said. “He’s captivated by it and showed a real interest and zeal and from the start he had a limitless interest in film authorship, directors [and as well as] auteurs.”
Ron Falzone, associate professor in the Cinema and Television Arts Department, said he was able to work with Jolls as a participating writer on the Sam Mendes book, showing his talent in writing cinematic pieces. “I had an opportunity to work with him on a colleague level as opposed to a student level, and thoroughly enjoyed it,” Falzone said. “I was proud of the fact that he was one of our students because he was clearly smart, clearly ambitious. I thought he had a really solid idea for that book and a good approach to the way he wanted to get it done.” Jolls said the book will always be a work in progress to him, but he would like readers to recognize a new side of Spielberg outside of the critical eye. “With Spielberg—and you see this very clearly—this is the growth of an artist,” Jolls said. “This is someone who is very talented, made some great movies, but ultimately [through the book] you see him mature as a filmmaker.”
odeloian@columbiachronicle.com
Columbia alumnus takes on Spielberg in new book
» COURTESY MICHAEL JOLLS
campus
James Tsitiridis (’17)
The 2018 Paula F. Pfeffer and Cheryl Johnson-Odim
POLITICAL CARTOON CONTEST ATTENTION STUDENTS: Submit an original political cartoon for the 2018 Paula F. Pfeffer & Cheryl Johnson-Odim Political Cartoon Contest for your chance to win a cash prize. A panel of judges will select 5 winning cartoons for cash prizes up to $550.
THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT CARTOONS IS MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2018. For more information, visit colum.edu/PCC or contact Dr. Teresa Prados-Torreira, tprados-torreira@colum.edu
Sponsored by School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Humanities, History and Social Sciences
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 7
campus
8 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
campus In a Feb. 5 email to The Chronicle from the News Office, Wearden said courses are scheduled separately by each department in the current decentralized model. In the intentional model, also described as a “shared” model, data would be used to increase space and time efficiency for students as well as avoid scheduling conflicts. Programming would factor in degree and space requirements as well as student and faculty preferences. Wearden also stated in the email that the changes, which have been discussed since August 2016, are a multi-year project with no set timeline. The project will regularly include feedback from faculty, academic schedulers, deans, associate deans, chairs and students. Scheduling with individual departments no longer works because departments are now housed in multiple buildings instead of one, said Tom Dowd, associate dean of the School of Media Arts and
acting chair of the Audio Arts and Acoustics Department. “We’re just looking at aligning ourselves more with national best practice about how schedules are assembled,” Dowd said, “and how that information is presented and distributed to students so they can make better long-term decisions about their schedule.” The system’s goal, highlighted at the Jan. 25 meeting, is to facilitate students’ graduation paths with multiple course options, said Oscar Valdez, an academic scheduling coordinator in the Humanities, History and Social Sciences Department, in a Feb. 1 emailed statement to The Chronicle. Valdez, who is also a 2004 journalism alumnus, said while he was attending the college, he was forced to take evening and Saturday courses after accepting a full-time job as a student employee in the HHSS Department. “The flatten[ing] of the schedule is something we have already incorporated in the HHSS LAS Core, but having all major courses follow this format will be a great
We’re just looking at aligning ourselves more with national best practice about how schedules are assembled. TOM DOWD service for students,” Valdez said in the statement. “If we can advertise ourselves as an institution that allows students to have multiple course options for graduation, we are in the right path in serving our students better.” Wearden stated in the Feb. 5 email that because the college has yet to choose software to implement these changes, the shift’s costs are not known. However, the current scheduling system has also been found to be costly for the college, he added. “We have evidence that scheduling conflicts make it difficult for students to graduate on time. Streamlining the schedule will make it easier for students to register for the courses they need in the sequence they need them, leading to increased graduation rates,” Wearden said. “The college may
have more academic space than it currently needs, and the upkeep of this space is expensive to maintain. Once space is maximized, we can better equip and improve the spaces we use, which makes the best use of our resources.” In a Feb. 20 email announcement to students, the Office of the Registrar announced course calalog enhancements beginning in the Fall 2018 Semester. According to the email, courses were renumbered for easier identification. The prefixing system is alphabetical and indicates the course’s discipline, while the new numbering system contains three digits rather than four. Students should determine which courses to take for fall 2018 with advising guides when the schedule is published March 19, Walters said in the email. Students should also
note the new course numbers using the new Course Number Look-Up Tool on the college’s website. Because Oasis has been programmed to accept the new course numbers, students should not experience difficulties while using advising guides or during registration, the email stated. Registration begins April 2 and students will receive registration dates and times in a separate email by approximately March 7, according to the email. “We’re pleased to bring the new course numbering system to Columbia as it is much like systems in place at other colleges and universities,” the Feb. 20 email stated. “It will make selecting courses more intuitive and your academic transcripts easier to read and understand.”
aportalatin@columbiachronicle.com
SCHEDULING, FROM FRONT
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 9
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10 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
» ZACHARY KELTNER/CHRONICLE
campus
Construction on Columbia’s new student center continued March 2 at the intersection of South Wabash Avenue and East 8th Street.
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 11
campus
April 4 & 5 11AM–2PM 1104 S Wabash Avenue 8th Floor
Search jobs and employers attending by clicking the Fairs tab in Handshake. Employer list and jobs will be fully updated by March 31st.
Register now on
colum.joinhandshake.com
12 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
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PREPARE FOR THE FAIR WITH HELP FROM THE CAREER CENTER 3/28 | Job Fair Prep Session from 12–1PM 4/2 | Last-Minute Resume Reviews from 12–4PM 4/3 | Last Minute Resume Reviews from 12–4PM 4/3 | Job Fair Prep Session from 2–3PM 4/4 | Pre-Fair Prep Session from 10–11AM 4/5 | Pre-Fair Prep Session from 10–11AM For more information and job fair prep, visit: colum.edu/jobfair
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The Chronicle gets nostalgic while guessing ‘90s TV show songs » ColumbiaChronicle.com/Multimedia
‘Pretty Woman: The Musical’ debuts in Chicago » PHOTOS ERIN DICKSON/CHRONICLE
“Pretty Woman: The Musical,” based on the 1990 film of the same name, will make its debut March 13 at The Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., for a limited five-week run before heading to Broadway.
I
n a modern update of the classic Cinderella fairytale, “Pretty Woman” tells the story of Vivian Ward, a Sunset Boulevard prostitute who unexpectedly finds love in Edward Lewis, one of her clients, and empowerment with the help of friends. “Pretty Woman: The Musical,” based on the 1990 film of the same name, will premiere in Chicago March 13 and play for five weeks at the Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. The actors discussed healthy female friendships, the process of taking a story from screen to stage and the experience of originating a role in a brand new musical. Orfeh will be portraying the role of Kit De Luca, a wisecracking prostitute andVivian’s supportive best friend.
THE CHRONICLE: How are you empowered by Kit? ORFEH: The reason I feel a great affinity for Kit is that she is actually an incredibly good friend. She is very supportive of Vivian and what Vivian wants to do. There is such a real friendship there and we don’t often see women being supportive of their female friends. This is one of those times where I am very lucky to present that. Eric Anderson plays Mr. Thompson, the manager of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, where the show takes place, as well as the Fairy Godmother-type for Vivian. THE CHRONICLE: How does the musical score relate to the show? ERIC ANDERSON: [Bryan Adam’s] songs enhance the characters. It’s really smartly done. [Adams] and his partner, Jim Vallance, have written many of the
greatest rock hits and anthems and you do come out humming the songs. These songs enhance what people already know about the movie as well. They expand the story into the strong musical it has become. Jason Danieley is portraying Philip Stuckey, who tries to thwart the romantic relationship. THE CHRONICLE: What are the messages of this production? JASON DANIELEY: Women can do anything they want. Vivian is a victim of her circumstance. She grew up in Georgia without a lot of money: She was kicked to the curb. She finds herself following a dream to go to California but still not being able to raise herself up. She’s sort of like Cinderella in the ashes. When Prince Charming comes
into the story, he’s not the one that saves her entirely. The last line is “and she saved him back.” It’s not just how Cinderella is saved by a man. They do it together. The role of James Morse, owner of a troubled shipbuilding company, which the male lead Edward Lewis plans to take over, is portrayed by Chicago-based actor Kingsley Leggs. THE CHRONICLE: Do you have any advice for college theater students? KINGSLEY LEGGS: Work as much as you can. Work begets work. As soon as you can, start thinking about what you want from this business and where you are going. That is not necessarily something I thought about when I was young. The business will tell you what it wants from you, but you need to know what you want from it. mwalsh@columbiachronicle.com
» MOLLY WALSH CAMPUS REPORTER
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 13
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14 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
arts & culture
» ARIANA PORTALATIN MANAGING EDITOR
Solar energy should be considered for Puerto Rico
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infrastructure, residents continue to feel instability. However, solar power that can be provided by companies such as Akon’s can help fill the void as it has been partially doing so far. The unreliability of power companies has led residents to take matters into their own hands. According to a Feb. 26 Remezcla article, the Pepino Power Authority was formed by residents to fix power lines because they could no longer wait for officials to help them. Solar power has been seriously considered, including by San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz and automotive company Tesla, who has donated solar products to the island. Tesla Powerwall solar battery packs helped stabilize solar panels of two residents and energy company New Energy is currently looking for investors for a new solar microgrid that could continuously provide power even with outages to the island’s main power grid, according to a Jan. 4 PRI article. Initiatives by Akon Lighting Africa were honored by the United Nations at the 2nd international forum Sustainable Energy For All in 2015. By the end of 2017, it was estimated that Akon’s organization helped provide electricity to 80 million Africans. With this kind of success supporting the reputation of the organization and other companies, solar energy should be a focal point of the U.S. and local officials. Solar energy can bring the island more stability than it has ever seen and is needed more than ever as the island struggles to lift itself back up after Hurricane Maria. aportalatin@columbiachronicle.com
ore than five months after Hurricane Maria swept Puerto Rico into darkness, many residents still remain without electricity. Although much power has been restored, the island’s power grid and overall infrastructure continue to be unstable. Many companies working to restore power have slowly begun to leave the island, all while residents continue to search for answers. The solution could have come from artist Akon, who said in Feb. 24 TMZ interview that his bid to restore Puerto Rico with Akon Lighting Africa—an organization formed in 2014 to solve Africa’s energy crisis with solar initiatives—was rejected by the U.S. government. The rapper said the organization could have restored power within 30 days but was rejected because of “politics, special interest and propaganda.” “They don’t care about the people,” Akon told TMZ. “If that were the case, then they would have allowed us to go in and provide the solution.” While the assertion has not been officially confirmed, it is true that Akon Lighting Africa can bring Puerto Ricans the relief they need. The group has brought electricity to more than a dozen African countries with solar power, from which the island can greatly benefit. A major blackout hit Puerto Rico March 1 after two of the island’s main power plants shut down, affecting San Juan and the neighboring municipalities of Caguas, Bayamon and Carolina. The outage possibly affected more than 970,000 residents, according to a March 1 NBC News article. Although Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority said the plants shut down to protect the electrical system, it is unclear what caused the shutdown. The blackout followed a Feb. 11 explosion and fire at one of the company’s substations which left two power plants offline and residents without power for two days. While officials say they expect power to be restored by May, the $300 million loan given to the Electric Power Authority is only expected to last through late March and with the instability of the island’s
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 15
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B I G G E S T
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WANT A CHANCE TO PERFORM AT THE METRO, OPEN FOR THE MANIFEST HEADLINER, AND WIN A CASH PRIZE?
16 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
arts & culture
Three hobbits walk into a bar...
of his fondest memories were of his dad reading the books to him and realizing what fantastical stories they were. Whitmer said the idea of Thalia Hall hosting a “Lord of the Rings” marathon and themed dinner is a great idea because it allows people with the same interests to share their passions. “[It is] a cool idea to try and get people to sit around and watch these epic movies that are starting to get a little old,” Whitmer said. “It draws in a cool crowd, people are enthusiastic about that stuff and so you know everyone is going to be there to have a good time and bring something more than just a social drinking hour.” If it is done right, Falknor said incorporating films into restaurants and bars can elevate the customer experience. “We are lucky enough to have this space that was built in 1892 that does not just include the theater but it includes our other bars,” Falknor said. “We are always looking at these creative ways.” kvilliesse@columbiachronicle.com
» MACKENZIE CROSSON/CHRONICLE
times in Thalia Hall, but we will show ‘Lord of the Rings’ movies.” Thalia Hall’s Middle Earth feast will consist of utensil-free foods that would be eaten in the Shire, including a smoked turkey leg, potato stew and a twist on lembas bread, according to Falknor. Hopewell Brewing, a Logan Square-based brewery, will also take part in the celebration and craft an ale inspired by the Middle Earth pub, the Prancing Pony. Samantha Lee, one of the three founders of the Hopewell Brewing Company, said the ale will complement the meal from Thalia Hall perfectly because it does not have Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., will be screening one part of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and hosting a Middle Earth-inan overwhelming taste and is not spired dinner each night from March 20–22. too sweet or bitter. » KENDRAH VILLIESSE hosting a Middle Earth-inspired would be a great opportunity to “The idea behind the beer is that ONLINE CONTENT PRODUCER dinner each night from March host the “Lord of the Rings” movie it will be a riff on a beer that we 20–22. Tickets are $5 for the screening and themed dinner for have year round, called Family FANS WILL SOON be able to follow movie and $30 for the dinner. viewers to enjoy. Saison,” Lee said. “It is traditionFrodo through the Shire and eat Pete Falknor, general manager “I saw this three-night window ally a beer that people would enjoy like hobbits during a three-day at Thalia Hall and 2009 Columbia and started to think of ways to after a hard day’s work.” “Lord of the Rings” movie mara- business and entrepreneurship make it a full-on experience,” Jeremy Whitmer, a systems anathon in Pilsen. alumnus, said he just happened he said. “I grew up in Arlington lyst at Cision, a public relations Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., to be looking at the venue’s calen- Heights, so class field trips were and media software and services will be screening one part of the dar when he realized there was to Medieval Times. I [thought], we provider company, grew up readfamous J.R.R. Tolkien trilogy and a three-night gap. He decided it have a hall, we should do medieval ing Tolkien’s books and said some
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arts & culture
“Representation really matters. When you’re growing up and you see someone on television like you, that changes how you feel about things,” Albritton said. “Seeing [narcolepsy] portrayed realistically and seeing somebody go through some of the situations that you experience, you don’t feel as alone. You feel like, ‘Oh, they get me, they understand me.’” “Super Narcoleptic Girl,” a web series written by Chicago comedians Sarah AlbritAccording to Povinelli, “Super ton and Catherine Povinelli, follows the crime-fighting adventures of a superhero with narcolepsy. Albritton stars as Keelyn, the sometimes-sleepy protagonist, Narcoleptic Girl” has garnered while Povinelli portrays Lee, Keelyn’s spunky and powerless friend. positive response from the narcoleptic community, with viewers for their content, and hope it can said both she and Povinelli from as far as Germany reaching act as a stepping stone. would be excited if the show out to thank the pair. Fans have According to Brent Kado, helped them get management expressed their appreciation for adjunct professor in the Cinema or representation, or amassed Albritton’s role as both a producer and Television Arts Department, enough attention to help fund and star of the show. YouTube is a strong “starting point” a second season. As creators who are not based for creators to release their con“We have so many more epiin entertainment hubs like tent and build an audience. sodes we were unable to shoot Los Angeles or New York City, Ideally, Albritton hopes to this season,” Albritton said, Albritton and Povinelli have found pitch “Super Narcoleptic Girl” to “and much more story we want the web series to be a strong outlet a studio as a full series, but she to tell with these characters.” mmanier@columbiachronicle.com
Albritton told Povinelli of her own narcolepsy and Povinelli responded, “You would make the KEELYN IS AN average, everyday worst superhero ever.” Chicago-based superhero with A week later, the two sat down to the power to make bad guys and make that concept a reality. rude bartenders break into sponAccording to to the National taneous dance with a snap of her Institute of Neurological Disorders fingers. However, unlike Wonder and Stroke, narcolepsy is a chronic Woman or Supergirl, Keelyn has neurological disorder that can something on her plate besides cause excessive sleepiness, insomsaving the world. She struggles nia and cataplexy, or brief episodes with narcolepsy. of weakness and loss of voluntary This is the premise of “Super muscle control. It’s often triggered Narcoleptic Girl,” a scripted web by strong emotions such as fear series co-created by Chicago or excitement. comedians Sarah Albritton and Growing up, Albritton did not Catherine Povinelli that pre- see narcolepsy represented as miered Feb. 15. The show follows anything more than a throw-away Albritton’s character as she battles joke, she said. There were no stolow-level villains, assisted by her ries that had main characters with “primary,” or powerless sidekick, narcolepsy, so creating a show that played by Povinelli. offers that representation has been The show was conceived over an exciting part of the process, margaritas one night when she added. » MIRANDA MANIER ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER
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18 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
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Web series wakes audience to narcolepsy representation
arts & culture
ARE YOU THE NEXT MANIFEST CREATIVE DIRECTOR? Are you looking for a job, exposure and the opportunity to build your body of work? If so, apply to become the Creative Director of Manifest Urban Arts Festival 2019. Submit one or more pieces of original work that can be used as the look, feel and identity of Manifest utilizing the prompt “AMPLIFY” Your design should convey Manifest as edgy, innovative, unique, diverse and ambitious while keeping with the theme:
am · pli · fy 1. 2. 3. 4.
To To To To
make larger or more powerful (as in amount, importance, or intensity) increase the strength of; especially : to make louder expand in stating or describing, as by details or illustrations; clarify by expanding discourse at length; expatiate or expand one's remarks, speech, ideas, etc.
The chosen entry will win a year-long paid student worker position as the 2019 Manifest Creative Director. Instructions, examples and additional information can be found at colum.edu/manifest.
D E A D L I N E
:
M A R C H
3 1 ,
2 0 1 8
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 19
Candidates state Rep. Jeanne Ives, R-Wheaton, and Democrat Tio Hardiman did not respond to repeated requests for Q&A responses as of press time. IF ELECTED, HOW DO YOU PLAN TO HELP ILLINOIS COLLEGE STUDENTS AND PROVIDE THEM WITH ASSISTANCE IN FACE OF A NATIONAL STUDENT LOAN CRISIS?
BISS: Our state has a responsibility to
provide every Illinoisan the opportunity to pursue higher education without taking on thousands of dollars in debt. My family just finished paying off our student loans, and I know middle-class and working families across the country face this same challenge. I was proud to pass the Student Loan Bill of Rights to protect student borrowers against predatory lenders. As governor, I will eliminate in-state tuition at our public colleges and universities.
DAIBER: My intention is to reinstate funding for higher education at the 2012 threshold. I will also work with companies such as Horace Mann [Educators Corporation] on loan forgiveness programs. KENNEDY: I believe that the best way
to help our college students is through opportunity. We need to move to a system of need-based aid as opposed to merit-based aid. Governor Rauner cut MAP grant funding, which has cut off aid to hundreds of students across Illinois. As governor, I would immediately restore funding for MAP grants. I would also work with our community colleges to establish an Illinois Promise Program that would offer two years of free community college to every student in Illinois and make it easy to transfer credits to four-year state universities.
RAUNER: We need to cultivate a high-
ly-educated and well-trained workforce that can compete in a modern econo-
my. To support our students, we must transform our vocational, technical and apprenticeship programs so that those who choose not to attend a four-year college can still have an outstanding career with good pay.
PRITZKER: I believe every student should be able to get a high-quality education without drowning in debt. To make that a reality, I would fully fund higher education and expand MAP grants to make college more affordable. These needed investments will help keep Illinois students from fleeing the state and rebuild our colleges and universities after Bruce Rauner decimated their funding. MARSHALL: I believe we should legal-
ize marijuana throughout Illinois, and also allow casino gambling for the City of Chicago. This would bring in hundreds of millions of extra dollars and this money should be used to help college students in Chicago and Illinois to finance their college and also to help pay down student debts. WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENT AND COMBAT THE CONSEQUENCES OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN ILLINOIS?
BISS: I believe Illinois can be a nationwide leader in combating climate change. As governor, I will get our state on track to use 100 percent renewable energy by 2050, enter Illinois into the U.S. Climate Alliance and make sure that communities that once relied on the fossil fuel industry benefit from the green energy economy. I received the Illinois Sierra Club’s endorsement in this race and have always earned a 100 percent rating from the Illinois Environmental Council as a legislator.
Bruce Rauner Chris Kennedy Robert Marshall
STORY BY ERIC BRADACH, DESIGN BY SAMANTHA CON
photos provided by candidates
preserve our fresh water. This is why I have called for a ban on Dicamba pesticide. Second, to combat climate change in the state of Illinois we must work to implement the use of biofuels, wind and solar energy.
a leading role in the future economy. Advancing renewable energy should be our ultimate priority, and I believe it’s imperative that we set a 100 percent renewable goal by 2045, similar to that of Hawaii and efforts in California. Science, research and the future of energy storKENNEDY: I believe that the best way age will offer us a direct path to fosterto help the environment is through in- ing more robust, sustainable solutions. I vestments in sustainable energy. It’s will be a leader in advocating to protect DAIBER: First, I will maintain strict en- undeniable that those who are on the federal funding for our research labs, like vironmental regulations on pesticides to forefront of renewable energy will play Argonne and Fermi, while also working to
DANIEL BISS 20 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
Q&
GOVERNOR
BOB DAIBER
CHRIS KENNEDY
r, Daniel Biss, y, J.B.Pritzker, l & Bob Daiber
NRAD
create robust research operations in our university system that can assist us in planning for a better, more sustainable future in Illinois.
of jobs and made Illinois a leader in clean energy innovation, but it sets up our state for even greater job creation and billions of dollars in investments.
RAUNER: Under my leadership, Illinois PRITZKER: I believe climate change is has become the Midwest leader in clean energy jobs. My administration has made investing in Illinois’ future a central focus in my first term, which was a major reason I signed the Future Energy Jobs Act. This law has not only saved thousands
MARSHALL:
I would try to do as much as I can to convert the State of Illinois to renewable sources of energy and slowly wean ourselves off of carbon-based energy sources. HOW WILL YOU INCREASE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND ENCOURAGE MILLENNIALS TO STAY OR COME TO THE STATE?
BISS:
Governor Rauner’s budget crisis caused many young people to leave the state. Some left for college, fearing further tuition hikes and cuts in funding, while others left because they were unable to find jobs as businesses fled an unpredictable and chaotic economy. As governor, I will pass a progressive, balanced budget to support business growth, create jobs through direct investment, and fully fund our neighborhood public schools as well as colleges and universities to prepare young people for their futures.
DAIBER: I will increase employment opportunities for millennials by equipping them with 21st Century skill sets so that they have the ability to maintain good paying jobs. I will get millennials to come to Illinois by making it a friendly state for them, including legalization of recreational marijuana and funding of higher education.
a real threat and that we have a responsibility to act. I will take immediate action to enter Illinois into the U.S. Climate KENNEDY: A strong education system Alliance to uphold the provisions of the is the backbone of a strong economy. Paris Climate Agreement. I would also Since 1989, the only workers in America expand clean energy production and in- generally—and Illinois specifically—who
BRUCE RAUNER
have seen their incomes grow at a rate greater than inflation and growth in purchasing power are those with a college degree. There is also a statistically significant correlation between educational attainment and unemployment—as educational attainment increases, the unemployment rate decreases. States with the greatest increases in productivity also have the largest share of adults with a college degree. That’s why a cornerstone of my jobs plan is to reinvest in higher education institutions and to rebuild our vast network of community colleges. Companies move to where the highly educated young people are. If we give the world highly educated young people, the world will give us its jobs.
RAUNER: Illinois has world-class universities that are helping to build an incredibly talented workforce. We need to encourage these young, forward-thinking students to stay here by creating more economic opportunity. That begins by fixing our broken tax and regulatory systems and by having our government stop spending money we don’t have. PRITZKER: I have comprehensive plans
to reverse the exodus of young people from the state by providing workers and students with the tools they need for success. My plans would provide quality, equitable public education and stable and affordable higher education, while expanding job creation and economic opportunity for communities throughout Illinois. By bringing stability to our state and investing in our communities, I am confident we can help our home-grown talent thrive and attract new talent from out of state.
MARSHALL:
I would increase employment opportunities by opposing tax increases throughout the state. I oppose increases in income taxes and also other state taxes, such as sales, gasoline, alcohol and tobacco. Some of the marijuana revenues can be applied to property taxes, since that is the main reason why people are leaving the state.
ebradach@columbiachronicle.com
&A
R Q&A WITH:
vest in green jobs to grow our economy and protect the environment. With these steps and more, I will put Illinois on track to meet and surpass the current goal of 25 percent renewable energy by 2030.
J.B. PRITZKER ROBERT MARSHALL MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 21
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University of Chicago graduate student and Field Museum of Natural History Research Associate Heather Skeen taught children about taxidermy owls during the March 2 “Dozin’ With The Dinos” overnight event at the Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive.
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our staff’s top 5 picks:
Column: Dressing like a snack ... literally » KENDRAH VILLIESSE ONLINE CONTENT PRODUCER
W
kvilliesse@columbiachronicle.com
e expect the clothes we see during Fashion Month to shock, amuse and amaze us while somehow working in our daily lives. Sometimes, however, fashion fails and never gets off the runway. One trend that has been taking over the fashion industry for the past few seasons is using metallic colors and prints in garments and accessories. The metallic trend has been around for a while because it is eye catching and futuristic. But Sies Marjan, Maryam Nassir Zadeh and Calvin Klein took a different approach to the trend, sending their models down the runway in what looked like giant candy wrappers and fire blankets. Although I love candy, the idea of using aluminum for garments does not make sense to me. The distracting and uncomfortably thin material makes every movement a loud crunch. Foil as fabric has rarely been used and probably shouldn’t be at all. Fashion is supposed to express who we are. That is why designers have different approaches on garments, so people can find a look that suits their personality. But aluminum and foil are often used in garments sold by fast fashion retailers, such as Forever 21 and H&M, not big name fashion designers, such as Calvin Klein and Marjan Mayram. Unless you want to look and feel like a giant baked potato or a piece of candy, this trend is not highly recommended.
24 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
BTS SONGS
‘BUFFY THE VAMPIRE THINGS I APPRECIATE SLAYER’ QUOTES AFTER BEING SICK
» BROOKE PAWLING STENNETT DIGITAL MANAGING EDITOR
» MIRANDA MANIER ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER
» MCKAYLA BRAID COPY EDITOR
“Silver Spoon”:
“You’re not special. You’re extraordinary”:
Food:
This song is a rebellious ode to the Korean saying “if a crow-tit walks like a stork it will break its legs,” referring to someone of lower class trying to reach higher status. It’s an empowering anthem for the youth who work hard for success despite the older generation trying to knock them down. It doesn’t hurt that the beat is fire, too. “Save Me”: Move aside The Chainsmokers, “Save Me” is the EDM banger you’ve all been waiting for. Get ready to experience the urge to learn Korean so you can accurately sing along, especially if you’ve got some wine, or something stronger, in you. Not speaking from experience whatsoever. “Outro: Wings”: This is one of the most slept-on BTS tracks ever. One Direction did not disband for you to let this 1D-esque track die. If you don’t sing along with the repetitive English chorus after the first listen, I don’t trust you. “Just One Day”: I’m not going to pretend like I’m not a sucker for a beautifully composed boyband ballad because I am. There is nothing that gets me quite like cute boys singing in falsetto, accompanied by synchronized dance moves in the music video. I wish I was better, but I’m just not. “Blood Sweat & Tears”: This song triggered my obsession with BTS months ago. It is the summer banger that deserved to be on every radio station, but I digress. The music video is a cinematic masterpiece that deserved an Oscar, but we can’t always get what we want.
Xander’s speech to Dawn in “Potential,” from one normal, powerless character to another, emphasized the themes of “Buffy.” It gave attention and recognition to behind-the-scenes sidekicks who might not be the chosen one but still have value to contribute. “That’s me as a vampire? I’m so evil, and skanky ... and I think I’m kinda gay”: I just want to be on record as saying I am so grateful that Willow being queer was not just a spur-of-the-moment decision. Given this was a thoughtful, intentional choice for the character’s arc all the way from the “Doppelgangland” made it much more effective. “I wear the cheese, it does not wear me”: I will always support the cheese guy in “Restless.” This is excellent writing. “It’s a big rock. I can’t wait to tell my friends. They don’t have a rock this big”: I wouldn’t be true to myself if I didn’t include a Spike quote in this. Plus, being from “Becoming, pt. 1,” it falls in the perfect middle ground of villainous Season 2 Spike and the softer, soulful do-gooder Spike of later seasons. “Dawn, the hardest thing in this world is to live in it”: Everything about Buffy’s speech to Dawn in “The Gift” is beautiful: It’s painful and powerful. The look on Sarah Michelle Gellar’s face when she realizes what she must do is serene but determined.
After existing on tasteless crackers and ginger ale for two weeks, I forgot just how much tasty, amazing food exists. I’ve missed pizza, sushi and ice cream. Now I can eat and appreciate whatever I want, but I will never forget when I couldn’t. Going outside: Spending two weeks inside can change your opinion of outside. When you only leave your apartment for more crackers and are in a rush to return, you forget how to take a second look around and remember how beautiful the city is—and the people in it. My roommates: After trying to actively avoid everyone, I forgot how hilarious and sweet my roomies are. Now, instead of quarantining myself, I can hang out in the living room, share some food and enjoy laughing. We can even grab brunch or just go for a walk. Breathing out of my nose: This one sounds silly, but when you can’t breathe properly, it’s hard to remember a time when you could. It was not until I gained use of both nostrils again that I realized just how lucky I am. No longer am I plagued with a continuous cough. Sleeping: When you’re sick, you fall asleep not feeling well and wake up the same. Maybe you feel a little bit better, but not by much. Plus, it is super difficult to find sleep when you’re so uncomfortable. Nowadays, I pretty much zone out the moment my head hits the pillow. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
arts & culture
SCALE
MUSIC
VIDEO
VIRAL
RANDOM
FALL OUT BOY’S ‘I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY’ COVER
‘A FANTASTIC WOMAN’
ICE EATING
SINUS PROBLEMS
» TESSA BRUBAKER CAMPUS REPORTER
» ERIC BRADACH MANAGING EDITOR
» MAYAN DARBYSHIRE ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER
» SAVANNAH EADENS METRO REPORTER
From the Spotify single series released Feb. 21, Fall Out Boy covered “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me),” originally performed by the great Whitney Houston. I’m honestly not a big fan of the rendition. FOB didn’t truly make the song sound its own. The song doesn’t work with guitars instead of ‘80s synth pop. Plus, not hearing Whitney Houston sing this iconic song feels beyond wrong and out of place.
Timeliness and sensitivity echo throughout “A Fantastic Woman.” Released Feb. 2 and directed by Sebastián Lelio, the Chilean film tells the story of a transgender woman whose older partner unexpectedly falls ill and dies. To make her sorrow worse, she is kicked out of the apartment the two shared and his funeral, and her dog is stolen. The film’s message can be a bit too simplistic at times, but it’s still a superb watch.
This popular live stream trend has taken China by storm, where countless individuals can be seen eating ice for our viewing pleasure. YouTube compilations showcasing people chowing down on different colored ice have now reached millions. Whether it’s cubed, soft or shaved, watching these live streams will have you poking your head out of your room 10 hours later, wondering where the day has gone. Chillingly satisfying.
Part of growing up is knowing how to take care of your body and health. When your coworkers and roommates get sick with the flu, it is best to take precautions. If you don’t, you may end up with the absolute worst sinus problems like I did. Stop what you’re doing and go buy some medicine before it is too late and you get a painful ear infection from all the excess sinus fluid. You spent $15 on sushi last night; you can afford Sudafed.
MUSIC
VIDEO
VIRAL
RANDOM
5 SECONDS OF SUMMER’S ‘WANT YOU BACK’
‘WRECK IT RALPH 2’ TEASER TRAILER
NYC SUBWAY RIDERS COVER THE BEATLES
HOODIES
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» MIRANDA MANIER ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER
» BLAISE MESA METRO REPORTER
5 Seconds of Summer is back and high school Zoë is pumped. The Australian band’s new single, “Want You Back,” is its first step back into the scene since its 2015 album Sounds Good, Feels Good flopped. While this isn’t the traditional pop-punk 5SOS I was hoping for, I’m still going to bop to it. It’s no “She Looks So Perfect,” but it will do for now. The band is scheduled to visit House of Blues Chicago April 16, and I don’t even need to hear a full album to buy my ticket.
Disney released its teaser trailer for “Wreck-It Ralph 2,” Feb. 28. From the 2-minute clip and the title of the upcoming film, “Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2,” it’s clear that it will somehow be about the characters discovering the internet. While this is just the teaser trailer, I wish it provided greater context of the plot. While the scene of Ralph discovering pop-up ads was amusing, it created little emotion in me to be excited for the release.
A video went viral of two guys strumming their guitars in a New York City subway singing The Beatles’ “Eight Days a Week.” There are a lot of subway performers out there, but Amiri and Rahiem Taylor, who have a band known as Blac Rabbit, blew up for sounding eerily like John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Needless to say, they’re crazy talented, and their voices are beautiful. Also, their original music is great too, and they deserve all the attention they’ve received.
There is no clothing option more durable and diverse than hoodies. Not only do they work well year round, but they last forever. I still have my first hoodie from high school and it still fits. Just like T-shirts, hoodies can be personalized to fit everyone’s tastes and come in a wide variety of options, from workouts to favorite sports teams. Hoodies also offer convenient pouches that allow extra storage space that has come in handy more times than I can count. MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 25
arts & culture
recipe
minimalist Pasta Salad » BLAISE MESA METRO REPORTER
Tired of the same old pasta salad recipe that never satisfies your taste buds? Skip the sausage and tomatoes and head straight for the cauliflower and spinach. With this easy-to-make and customizable choice, new or experienced cooks can get in on the fun.
Ingredients:
• • • •
1 box dried pasta such as rotini or farfalle 1 head cauliflower 12 ounces fresh spinach 4 fluid ounces olive oil Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions • • • • • • •
bmesa@columbiachronicle.com
» MACKENZIE CROSSON AND ZACK JACKSON / CHRONICLE
•
Thoroughly wash cauliflower and spinach. Boil a pot of water. Then cook pasta. Drain pasta, set aside. Dice cauliflower until bite sized. Mix diced cauliflower and spinach in separate bowl, then add cooked pasta. Mix again. Add olive oil to the bowl and mix thoroughly. Chill pasta salad for an hour.
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March 25, 2018 MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 27
opinions
CityKey ID needs everyone to unlock Chicago opportunities
C
hicago plans to launch its municipal ID program this month, and residents will have the most accessible form of activism readily available to them. The Chicago CityKey Program, which city officials began developing in October 2016, will provide an alternative to residents who are often unable to obtain government-issued identification. The homeless, undocumented or recently incarcerated will finally be able to use the “3-in-1” card that also acts as a Ventra pass and a public library card. The city has thought ahead to ensure cost will not bar residents from the CityKey. The adult fee for the card is $10, but there are many fee waivers for low-income people, homeless people, survivors of domestic violence, people
recently released from prison, veterans and participants of the One Summer Chicago Program, the city’s youth employment initiative. Children under 18 will be charged a $5 fee and senior citizens age 65 and older will receive the card at no cost. The program will also allow applicants to self-designate their gender on the card, bringing at least some relief for transgender and nonbinary residents who found correcting gender markers on state-issued identification difficult. Many were excited by these details. But others had reservations, concerned the program will make it easier to obtain information on undocumented residents and for them to be targeted by law enforcement. The Office of the City Clerk’s website states the CityKey “captures minimal
Youth in revolt: Students lead after Florida school shooting
COMMENTARY » TYRA BOSNIC OPINIONS EDITOR
A
merica’s youth has taken their future into their own hands before another mass shooting can claim them. Another school shooting Feb. 14 took the lives of 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. With it came another wave of empty
“thoughts and prayers” from politicians as they ignore desperate calls for gun reform. But many of the shooting survivors refuse to accept anything less than progress. After living through what may be the most traumatic experience of their lives, they have taken to the streets, town halls and the Capitol to ensure other young people never experience their pain. During a Feb. 16 interview with Anderson Cooper, Stoneman Douglas High School junior Cameron Kasky called out the National Rifle Association and the Republican Party for refusing to address gun reform. Kasky later started the #NeverAgain movement used across social media platforms and on protest signs nationwide. On Feb. 17, Kasky’s classmate Emma Gonzalez stood at a podium in front of a crowd of demonstrators and announced the survivors are doing what politicians have refused to do.
information from applicants, which includes only a unique identifier, the date of issuance and the expiration date.” City officials have also promised no information about residents will be shared with other government agencies. Other cities have had similar ID programs with mixed results. Two years after New York City launched IDNYC, about 1 million residents opted in the program. With only 30,000 cards issued since launch in 2009, San Francisco has struggled to encourage interest in its own program. There are currently plans to expand the uses of the card by working with local businesses, sports teams, cultural institutions and community organizations to appeal to all residents with discounts, which can also prevent vulnerable residents from being targeted. This is how all Chicagoans can work together to not only ensure the program is a success but also collectively stand with the city’s marginalized residents. Applying for a CityKey is a simple way
EDITORIAL to prevent the program from being solely identified with the homeless. Considering many can be ashamed of applying for the CityKey because of stigma associated with seeking the resources it provides, all residents can make the program Chicago’s new normal with one trip to City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle Drive, to apply. Although compassion is a sufficient motive for seeking a card, the CityKey is expected to provide a range of benefits to cardholders. Unless you have a deep-seated disdain for people the CityKey is meant to help, how can anyone fail to promote a program that offers so much to so many? The CityKey is another example of local governments acting to protect residents in the face of an administration ready to strip their rights. Current events can be terrifying and the future can look grim, but we must acknowledge small steps in progress when we see them and support them by all means necessary. And in that case, Chicagoans should be ready to soon be proud CityKey cardholders.
“All these people should be at home grieving,” Gonzalez said. “But instead we are up here standing together because if all our government and president can do is send thoughts and prayers, then it’s time for victims to be the change that we need to see.” Students also spoke at a CNN-produced Town Hall broadcast Feb. 21 where they unrelentingly grilled Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, and NRA spokeswoman Dana Loesch about their continued complacency. Stoneman Douglas High School students are not fighting alone. Students nationwide have rallied behind them, and young people are now leading a dialogue legislators have dismissed for years. Teenagers walked out of classrooms nationwide Feb. 21 in a powerful display of solidarity. The same day, the Parkland survivors traveled to their state capitol in Tallahassee, Florida, where they pushed for legislative reform. The students’ efforts are already showing results. Florida Gov. Rick Scott, whom the students have put under enormous pressure to tighten gun control laws, announced Feb. 23 he will be working with state lawmakers to raise the age to purchase a gun from 18 to 21; ban bump stocks, which allow guns to fire like fully automatic weapons; more
severely penalize those who make threats to commit a school shooting and mandate active-shooter training in public schools. Although these measures are far from adequate prevention, they are more than we have seen in years of increasingly violent mass shootings. This is more than what Scott did after the Orlando, Florida, shooting at Pulse nightclub claimed 49 lives. Looking toward the future of continuing this dialogue, student-led protests— including a national student walkout and march in Washington, D.C.—have already been organized for later this month. Many people have begun to say these teenagers are saving America, but this well-intentioned interpretation is misguided. Young people will no longer tolerate their lives under constant threat, and with quickness and efficiency, are doing what U.S. adults should have done, beginning with the Columbine High School shooting in 1999. These teenagers are desperately trying to save themselves and future generations from slaughter. The youth have taken the lead in the fight for gun reform, and now we all must march beside them and ensure nothing blocks their path to progress.
Editorial Board Members Brooke Pawling Stennett Digital Managing Editor Tyra Bosnic Opinions Editor Jay Berghuis Copy Editor Mayan Darbyshire Arts & Culture Reporter Molly Walsh Campus Reporter
28 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
Mackenzie Crosson Senior Photo Editor Zack Jackson Graphic Designer Kami Rieck Media Sales Rep Eric Eldridge Webmaster
Did you catch a mistake, think we could have covered a story better or have strong beliefs about an issue that faces all of us here at Columbia? Why not write a letter to the editor? At the bottom of Page 2, you’ll find a set of guidelines on how to do this. Let us hear from you. —The Columbia Chronicle Editorial Board
opinions
Honoring Billy Graham dishonors those he marginalized » MIRANDA MANIER ARTS & CULTURE REPORTER
O
n Feb. 28, the late evangelical Rev. Billy Graham, who acted as a spiritual confidante for 12 presidents from Harry Truman to Barack Obama and was known as “America’s pastor,” became the fourth private citizen to lie in honor at Capitol Hill. But throughout his time in the public eye, Graham’s preaching was muddled with hateful and oppressive rhetoric, and his namesake organization, The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, now run by his son Franklin Graham, has homophobic and transphobic articles across its website with Billy Graham’s name plastered at the top of each page. Despite preaching Christian love and acceptance, Graham was exposed post-Watergate for anti-semitic remarks he made to former President Richard Nixon. In the recorded conversation with Nixon, Graham said, “A lot of the Jews are great friends of mine, they swarm around me and are friendly to me because they know that I’m friendly with Israel. But they don’t know how I really feel about what they are doing to this country.” Graham was repeatedly outspoken about his opposition to gay rights and marriage equality. In
mmanier@columbiachronicle.com
COMMENTARY
a 1995 sermon, Graham said, “Is AIDS a judgement of God? I could not say for sure, but I think so.” Though he later expressed regret for the statement, it still inspired countless others to have similar views. When a woman wrote to Graham in 1974 about her feelings for another woman, Graham responded, “We traffic in homosexuality at the peril of our spiritual welfare.” The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s website also contains articles such as “The War on ‘Male’ and ‘Female,’” which call transgender activism a “Trojan horse” in destroying “traditional families.” The website also responds to the question, “Are homosexuals born that way?” with the suggested reading of a “practical guide to overcoming homosexuality.” Despite his record of hateful beliefs, Graham has been celebrated by current and former U.S. leaders in the wake of his death. When former President Barack Obama tweeted about the “hope and guidance” Graham gave to Americans, twitter users rightfully responded with disdain. When political leaders like Obama show support for a staunchly religious and prejudiced public figure like Graham, it is insulting to their constituents. It demonstrates a passive interest in oppressed groups’ rights, rather than actively standing up for them, and standing against the memorializing of someone who has dehumanized them. Honoring Graham’s legacy of hate and prejudice is an offense to members of the marginalized groups he spoke against who feel dismissed and disregarded by the honor he is receiving. For the federal government to laud a man who used his platform to be homophobic and anti-semitic is a step entirely in the wrong direction.
In response to Feb. 26 article: ‘SGA Redefines Blackness’ LETTER TO THE EDITOR
I
am writing to the editor and senior staff of The Chronicle to share my grievances on the cover story of this week’s issue. Initially, I was offended with the headline, “SGA Redefines Blackness,” as it implies several things, none of which being the point of the story. The headline implies that SGA is doing something for Blackness—which it isn’t, even if it was then the article should reflect that, and this Q&A fell short of connecting to anything. It should read “Black Excellence permeates SGA.” I use the word permeate specifically because it is a word that connects the two entities with force, in a strong and positive tone rather than to isolate one another. As someone with knowledge of both SGA and BSU and the fluidity between their executive boards, the real story is the history that is being made with the joint forces of Malik Woolfork, Cameron Hubert, Veronique Hall, Frita Beauchamp and Jazmin Bryant: all of who serve(d) on both the SGA and BSU e-board, or are current members. Did you know that? Would you know that from the questions being asked in this article? Did you know that each of these students is also involved in organizations and companies outside of running SGA? They have a combined network of social influencers, educators and creators that have contributed to this school through hosting events and workshops and overall boosting morale on campus. They’ve brought brands such as BET, Cholette and RedBull to Columbia’s campus outside of their work for the SGA—these people are newsworthy. Their stories matter. To have a writer discredit their work by not even mentioning or asking about their accomplishments is pathetic and degrades the entire publication. Not only was the word choice wrong in the headline, but the questions
Editor’s response:
» JOCELYN MORENO/CHRON ICLE
The Chronicle thanks you for sharing your thoughts with us and would like to clarify a couple points. The statement that The Chronicle does not have people of color on staff is false, and the editor who assigned
spew prejudice and take away from the power of the individuals. It’s Black History Month and your writer literally asked, “What do you want people to know about being Black?” and “What should people who are not Black know about Black History Month?” As a journalist, I am floored at the low-quality questioning. These are horrible questions and they focus solely on blackness but in a distasteful and uneducated way. Let’s take race out the conversation. From a journalist viewpoint, do you believe this story was newsworthy, well-written or thought-provoking? Does it address any particular conflict or issue? Does it engage the reader? Do you think the length of the Q&A consititues a cover story? Everything is wrong with this. It reads like a last-minute fluff piece, like you’re trying to meet your diversity quota and fit in a “black” story for Black History month—it feels like an inconvenience, like you had to shift stories to fit this in for metrics. From this article, it is clear as day that there are zero people of color on your editorial staff, which is a whole different story, and the lack of diversity will continue to offend minorities if you don’t change your approach. My last question is who approved this piece? I know too many journalism students at Columbia that would’ve nailed this interview for this to be acceptable. It wouldn’t hurt to amp up your hiring process either because the entire publication looks like a joke with this story, and the fact that the online version had a typo in the headline. I no longer support this publication and will continue to spread the word about your insensitivity and incompetence on racial issues. I am also requesting a written apology to the staff of SGA and the readers as I am not the only student to take issue with this story. Khai Clardy, senior multimedia journalism major this story is a woman of color. We are sorry you found issue with the piece, and it was never The Chronicle’s intention to offend. The newspaper takes diversity very seriously, which is why we cover and write about issues of diversity nearly every week. MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 29
opinions
30 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
metro
Refuse Fascism and allies rally for undocumented immigrants » ColumbiaChronicle.com/Multimedia
METRO REPORTER
WHILE CHICAGO IS looking at companies to build a proposed O’Hare International Airport–downtown express train, plans are proceeding for a new train that could connect Chicago and Cleveland in less than 30 minutes. A partnership has been announced between the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency and Hyperloop Transportation Technologies—a Culver City, California-based tech company—for plans to create the Great Lakes Hyperloop. Hyperloop trains differ from conventional trains because they use magnets to move through a series of tubes rather than tracks and wheels, according to the HTT’s website. NOACA has also signed a memorandum pledging to work alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation to strive toward building the Chicago–Cleveland transit, and the proposed route would be examined in a six-to-nine month regional feasibility study, according to a Feb. 26 HTT press release. “The Great Lakes megaregion represents a $15 billion transportation market with tens of millions of tons of cargo and millions of passengers connecting to the cities within the region every year,” said Grace Gallucci, executive director of NOACA in the press release. “Technologies like the [Great Lakes] Hyperloop can take our overstressed infrastructure into the 21st century and beyond.”
Other routes under consideration could connect Chicago to Detroit and cost between $20 million and $45 million per mile. “Everybody knows [a] high-speed rail is coming, but nobody knows the path we will take to get there,” said Joe Schwieterman, a transportation professor and director of the Chaddick Institute at DePaul University. “Countries around the world are embracing high-speed rail, and the Midwest seems like a logical location.” The hyperloop would race across the Midwest at an average speed of 730 mph, nearly three times the speed of the world’s fastest train—the Shanghai maglev train in China—which has been clocked at 267 mph. The region’s flat landscape also makes it ideal for a high-speed transit system as opposed to other mountainous areas in the nation, Schwieterman said. And the terrain between Chicago and Cleveland is as “flat as a pancake,” he added. The Midwest needs better travel routes to increase access to many major cities across the Midwest such as Cleveland, Detroit, Pittsburgh and others, said Rick Harnish, executive director of the Midwest High Speed Rail Association. The promise of a 30-minute trip intrigues passengers such as Jordan Gadoury, 19, a sophomore advertising major at Kent State University in Ohio. Gadoury, a former theatre major at Columbia, said she would endure the “miserable” 6–8 hour bus ride last year from Chicago back to Cleveland about once a month on a Greyhound or megabus.
“If there was a new option of travel out there, I would like to take it,” Gadoury said, adding the hyperloop train’s safety is more of a concern than its high speeds. While the proposed hyperloop system has drawn excitement from prospective passengers, some transportation experts remain skeptical. “I would like [to know] what is exciting about it to people,” Harnish said. “People know how to run trains safely and regulate safety. None of that exist for [hyperloop].” Harnish said he is also uneasy about the limited number of hyperloop trains in operation and thinks states should focus more on high-speed rail transits which have a proven track record. Currently the Shanghai maglev train is the only train that uses magnets to move along the route,
similar to a hyperloop, and it has been in operation since 2002. HTT was unable to comment on the safety procedures or technological implications of the system as of press time. Schwieterman said trips between 100– 350 miles are ideal for high speed train systems. Anything longer and the benefits of air travel would be “overwhelming.” With the proposed train projected to travel faster than a Boeing 747’s top speed, some experts have their doubts. However, the same doubts could have been said for air travel in the 1920s, Schwieterman said. “[Hyperloop trains] face long odds, but we are careful not to dismiss [them] because technology is changing so fast,” Schwieterman said. bmesa@columbiachronicle.com
» BLAISE MESA
» PHOTOS COURTESY HTT
New hyperloop train proposal would connect Chicago to Cleveland
The proposed hyperloop train would travel at 730 mph and use a system of tubes of magnets unlike the conventional train, which uses wheels and rails.
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 31
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32 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
CHLOE HANCOCK, A senior at Jones College Prep High School and vice president of the Chicago Students Union, says that social movements often start with students, and that the teens from Parkland, Florida, who are traveling the country in protest of gun violence have sparked a nationwide flame. Hancock is one of many students across the country planning a 17-minute walk out for March 14, exactly one minute for every person who was killed in the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland Feb. 14. There will also be a national “March for our Lives” in Washington, D.C., on March 24 and another commemoration April 20 for the 19th anniversary for the Columbine High School shooting.
The conversations about movements like comprehensive gun control are nothing new. Many social movements in U.S. history have been populated by idealistic young people because they often have an optimistic worldview, said Rhys Williams, a sociology professor at Loyola University. “Students have what sociologists call biographical availability. They don’t have full-time jobs, children and some of the things that keep adults from being involved in social activism because they don’t have time,” Williams added. The Civil Rights and Chicago movements were led by high school individuals, said Laura Ramirez, executive director of Chicago Freedom School, which teaches youth programs encouraging social activism. While the institution provides students with opportunities for framing and structure,
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Hancock is the administrator for Jones College Prep High School’s walkout and said several other Chicago schools are also planning walkouts, including Whitney Young Magnet High School, 211 S. Laflin St.; Lane Tech College Prep High School, 2501 W. Addison St.; and Lincoln Park High School, 2001 N. Orchard St. Principal Joe Powers said while
the school administration supports students practicing their rights, they would prefer 17 minutes of silence as opposed to a walk out, which could be a safety hazard with 2,000 students in the urban location at 700 S. State St. Visit ColumbiaChronicle.com for additional reporting.
seadens@columbiachronicle.com
» SAVANNAH EADENS METRO REPORTER
Ramirez says teens already have the power and potential to influence the world. Chicago is a city familiar with young social activism. In July 2016, Sophia Byrd and three other teen girls organized a large silent protest at Millennium Park to protest police brutality. The protest was not about any particular shooting, said Byrd, who is now a freshman at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “The goal was to create a space for young people to meet with other young people because within the Black Lives Matter movement, the voices of youth and young adults are not always heard even if they are frequently at the heart of social, progressive movements,” she said. Before that summer, Byrd said she did not know the two girls she connected with on Facebook who joined her organizing efforts. But while social media has helped organize protests and marches, it does not necessarily increase the number of people who get involved, Williams said.
» COURTESY OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Student calls for gun control engross Chicago
metro
Bela Urbina, a 15-year-old student at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, spoke to protesters urging for gun control reform in front of Florida Capitol building, 400 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, Feb. 26
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» BLAISE MESA METRO REPORTER TO CRACK DOWN on price gouging and provide millions of Illinoisans better access to life-saving medical prescriptions, a proposed Illinois House bill would impose punishments on companies that unjustly raise their prices. The Illinois Generic Drug Pricing Fairness Act defines price gouging as a 30 percent or more price increase within one year, 50 percent or more within three years or 75 percent or more within five years. However, not every increase in price would be considered price gouging. Companies have a limited time to prove the increase in cost was justified before being taken to court, said state Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago, who introduced House Bill 4900 Feb. 14.
“There is not always a lot of competition out there,” Guzzardi said. “If one company raises prices, it’s not always the case where you can get it somewhere else, even with generic drugs.” The bill would also grant Illinois’ attorney general authority to punish pharmaceutical companies who price gouge. The penalties include fines up to $10,000 per violation, restitution to patients who paid the increased prices and the ability to make them sell the medication at the prehike price, according to Guzzardi. The bill covers three categories: generic, off-patent drugs, which have expired patents leading to approval of a
generic drug, and delivery devices such as EpiPens or inhalers, according to Guzzardi. The bill passed the Human Services Committee, 7–5, Feb. 28 and is waiting to be called for a full House vote, according to state legislative records. For some families, unexpected and unwarranted increases to medication prices could cause
» ZACK JACKSON/CHRONICLE
a variety of serious problems, said Ally Dering-Anderson, clinical associate professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practices at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. If a drug costs 9 cents one day, then $200 the next, there is no way families can adapt or budget for that. That can force families to make difficult decisions on whether they fill their prescription or pay their bills, she said. “Can price gouging [actually] kill people? Not directly,” Dering-Anderson said. “But you don’t have to go far to find the connection.” The bill would provide benefits to more than just patients who use prescribed medication, Guzzardi said. It could help the state balance the budget because companies who unjustly raise prices on patients increase the state’s contribution to Medicare. Price gouging is not a new problem, and the U.S. has seen some pretty extreme cases
over the years, said Ana Santos Rutschman, Jaharis faculty fellow in Health Law and Intellectual Property at DePaul University. Bills like this are overdue and showcase even less egregious price gouging cases, she added. Both Rutschman and DeringAnderson applaud the bill’s ability to shine a spotlight on companies who are unethically raising prices. But they are afraid the bill lacks the teeth to deter and punish large pharmaceutical companies and prevent future instances of price gouging. However, Guzzardi is confident the bill has the power to deter companies from price gouging. “We are not going to cater to the objections of [the pharmaceutical] industry that wants to continue gouging consumers without any regulations at all,” Guzzardi said. “We believe the Illinoisans who rely on these prescription medications are more important than drug companies who are trying to pad their pockets.” bmesa@columbiachronicle.com
House bill aims to gouge the gougers
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 35
ServiceNow is currently working out of a temporary workspace in the Fulton Market, before moving to a permanent location.
Windy City isn’t new Silicon Valley » SAVANNAH EADENS METRO REPORTER ANOTHER WEST COAST tech company will soon move to Chicago. ServiceNow, a software company with nearly $2 billion in
annual revenue, announced Feb. 23 that it would create a new technology Development Center in Fulton Market, its first U.S.based technology hub outside the West Coast. The company plans to create 150 new jobs over the next
two years, according to Johnna Hoff, a company spokeswoman. Although the company’s CEO, John Donahoe, is from a Chicago suburb, ServiceNow chose the city for its quality technology talent that could help Chicago become another Silicon Valley, Hoff said. “From what I’ve been reading from some of [Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s] initiatives, there is definitely a focus on technology talent,” Hoff said. “Universities have been looking at technology and how to make inroads into that industry for quite some time.” Silicon Valley companies have built up a solid presence in Chicago during the past few years: Google, Facebook, Glassdoor, Yelp, Twitter and Salesforce all have offices in the city. Matthew Ragas, an associate professor of public relations at DePaul University’s graduate school, said Chicago has the young, smart tech talent that companies like ServiceNow desire. Grubhub and Groupon both started in Chicago and have grown into examples for other companies,
said Katherine Davis, a journalist for Chicago Inno, an online tech and business publication. “We’re seeing more energy [from West Coast companies] because of the companies that have started grow[ing] here,” Davis said. Flexport, a freight forwarding and customs brokerage company in San Francisco, is another example of this trend, Davis said. The company announced plans in January to open an office in Chicago that will bring 100 jobs this March. Hoff said Chicago-based companies give locals the opportunity to stay close to home rather than relocating cross country. “People want to live in the Midwest [to] enjoy that quality of life, and stay close to family,” she said. “[Working in the Midwest is] literally meeting in the middle in terms of technology, opportunity and lifestyle.” Companies in Silicon Valley have a different orientation than those in Chicago. Silicon Valley is home to Facebook, Snapchat and Uber, the kind of startups
that everyone uses, Davis said. Chicago, however, is home to Review Tracker, a software service for businesses to track their online reviews, and Glassdoor, a human resources company. These large tech companies should supply much needed tax revenue for the city, Ragas said. However, more tech companies could affect Chicago’s cost of living, boosting the price of real estate and food, Ragas added. Chicago’s cost of living may also spike if it wins the competitive bid for Amazon’s second North American headquarters, Davis said. But Chicago will likely not be Amazon’s new location, as the Washington, D.C., area seems to be the more favorable choice for Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, Davis said. “Chicago could be a great place for it, but if we did get it, we might see smaller tech companies here in Chicago having a hard time finding and retaining talent because so many people will want to work at Amazon,” Davis said.
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The Arc
www.colum.edu/TheArc 38 THE CHRONICLE MARCH 5, 2018
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FEATURED PHOTO
» ERIN DICKSON/CHRONICLE
Special Olympics CEO Mary Davis, Chicago Park District Superintendent Mike Kelly, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan joined four Special Olympics athletes in a groundbreaking ceremony for the Eternal Flame of Hope on March 2. This monument, located on Soldier Field’s North Lawn, 469 E. McFetridge Drive, will commemorate the site of the first Special Olympics games 50 years ago.
MARCH 5, 2018 THE CHRONICLE 39
A celebration of international, independent film chicagofeministfilmfestival.com
CHICAGO
FILM FESTIVAL
March 7-9, 2018 Film Row Cinema 1104 S. Wabash Ave. 8th floor