The University News A Student Voice of Saint Louis University Since 1921
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Vol. XC No. 6
Homecoming Edition
Thursday, September 23, 2010
St. Louis Guide Explore nine of St. Louis’ most popular neighborhoods, from the Loop to the Landing.
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Campus events Program educates prison community prompt SGA action lution. “As students and as members of the SLU community, Last year Saint Louis Uni- we all hold some responsiversity’s campus observed bility when our fellow stuevents that included students dents are victimized and opbeing threatened, crosses that pressed,” Bloom said. “The represented the LGBT com- newly formed creed coalition munity stolen and other bias is about taking accountabilincidents that detrimentally ity for our shortcomings and affected students. This year, building a strong commuStudent Government Associa- nity.” S o m e tion is taking senators exproactive pressed conmeasures in cern with order to aid the fact that in the fight the creation to eliminate The newly formed creed of the creed such inci- coalition is about taking was not dents from accountability for our shared with campus. the wider “We as shortcomings and buildSLU conthe students ing a strong community. stituency. of Saint Lou-Thomas Bloom Therefore, is Univerthey felt sity should that it might be open to not fully emgrowth in seeking to develop an in- body the values of the campus clusive atmosphere,” reads in its entirety. “This creed was sent out a whereas-statement in the most recent SGA proposal that to all of [Senate] so there’s has, after its passage, formed 13,000 students represented a coalition to handle the task right there. Hopefully everyof fully developing and distrib- one did their job and read the creed,” Anvender said, reuting a student creed. “This is not necessarily a sponding to the inquiry referholistic creed in the sense of ring to the fact that the senahow students should be act- tors represent the larger SLU ing physically, mentally, so- community. Another senator asked cially or spiritually but more of a creed of what it means to about how this creed differs be a member of this commu- from the “We Are All Billiknity and how to help foster a ens” campaign that was sponcommunity of inclusion,” SGA sored by the Great Issues President Courtney Anvender Committee last year. “I feel that ‘We Are All said. This creed began its for- Billikens’ was a temporary mulation over the summer thing,” Vasquez said. “The inmonths, and has since been a tent of the coalition is to carry collaborative project between this [creed] for years and SGA and many of the mul- years to come. The continuticultural organizations on ity of the coalition will be significantly longer than the ‘We campus. In terms of the most cur- Are All Billikens’ campaign.” Vasquez expressed that rent draft of the creed, Vice President of Diversity and ideally there will be a “Creed Social Justice Oscar Vasquez Week” after students come stated that for the most part, back from winter break. It will be during that week “[The organization’s] opinion was that it looked really that the creed will be released and distributed. good.” Participation in the coaliOne such multicultural group that was considered tion is open to any interested student, regardless of memwas Rainbow Alliance. Thomas Bloom is the pres- bership in SGA. Another resolution and bill ident of the organization and was a co-sponsor of the reso- were also passed in Senate. By SEAN WORLEY Assistant News Editor
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Submitted photo by AIMS Program
High school students take part in an anatomy experiment during the AIMS program.
Medical program takes honors By ASHLEY SELAS Contributor
The Adventures in Medicine and Science (AIMS) Program of Saint Louis University placed second out of 160 programs in the 2008-2009 Center for Interactive Learning and Collaboration Pinnacle competition. AIMS is the only program of its kind in the country that gives students of all ages an opportunity to experience anatomy, health and science education in a real tactile way. Lisa Suggs, AIMS program manager, said that the goal of the program is to educate future health care professionals. “Everyone can remember the event that sparked their passion in a particular subject, and we get to provide those inspiring events to kids every day,” Suggs said.
AIMS program strives to teach youth about basic anatomy and health care, help high school and college students understand premedical career options, and bring families together through family medical school labs. The AIMS program possesses a variety of workshops aimed to excite students and health care professionals that are interested in all areas of medicine. The programs that are offered for middle school students concern basic anatomy and health. With some of the workshops and presentations pertaining to damaged organs, students can see what the effects of certain health practices are. Therefore, good practices can be reinforced in a learning atmosphere, Suggs said. See “AIMS” on Page 3
Submitted Photo by Mary Gould, Department of Communication
Inmates at the Bonne Terre prison listen to theology professor Grant Kaplan during a lecture offered through the Saint Louis University In Prison Program. SLU is the only college that offers such a program in Missouri.
College In Prison aims to give inmates opportunity By KRISTEN MIANO News Editor
The Saint Louis University College In Prison Program is an initiative that started in 2008 that brings college courses into the Bonne Terre prison. The program so far has just offered a certificate in theology to inmates, but the program is expanding off four new, general education certificates to a larger number of students. The SLU CIPP was started by Kenneth Parker, an associate professor of historical theology. Parker got the idea for the program after a watching a particular episode of 60 Minutes that covered other college in prison programs. “I was given a nudge by one of my tenants, a woman who was in and out of prison 11 times in her early life, but a woman of sterling character now,” Parker said. “She saw the same episode I did. And I said that’s such an incredible idea, taking college courses into prisons. I’d do it, but I’m much too busy. And she had this wonderful line and said, ‘No ones too busy to do the right thing once they see that it needs to be done’.” Parker said that he took this as a nudge from God to get something started. Eight months later, he found himself inside the Bonne Terre Prison in Missouri with a class of 15 students. The program took about two and a half years to implement the certificate of theology so that the Department of Corrections could get a feel for the program. A year and a half ago, the department came to Parker and requested that they expand the program. See “Prison” on Page 3
1 in 100 American adults is incarcerated at some point in his/her life. 1 in 31 adults is in prison, on parole, or behind bars. On average, 60% of individuals without an education will be sent back to prison after being released. 0-15% of individuals with an education will be sent back to prison after being released. 30 Years Ago in Missouri: 3,000 prisoners 7,000 on parole and probation
Today in Missouri: 31,000 prisoners 75,000 on parole and probation
A study of 200 inmates found that the only program with a 0% recidivism rate was a college-in-prison program. SLU is the only college with a college-in-prison program in Missouri.
Panel addresses educational success By KRISTEN MIANO News Editor
On Sept. 22, the Saint Louis University Theology Club held the “Finding Christ in Prison: What We Learned About Learning in Prison” panel discussion. The event featured speakers who had taught in SLU’s College In Prison program: Kenneth Parker, Grant Kaplan and Ron Modras. Each spoke about their experiences teaching inmates at the Bonne Terre Prison in Missouri. Parker spoke about how he came to find the program, as he attests that the project is not his own. The idea came to him after he watched an episode of 60 Minutes, which featured the college-in-prison program at Bard College. “I thought ‘Someone should do this at SLU, but I’m too busy,’” Parker said. Parker went through with the idea anyway after a conversation with a tenant of his, who assured him that there was always time to do the right thing. He recalled that once he was in the prison classroom, he was struck by the intensity of the students and their “intellectual starvation.”
“I remember one student in particular who was afraid he was going to lose his spot when he was on probation. He said ‘This class is the only thing I have to live for right now.’” With a grant from the Hearst Foundation and the support of various faculty members at SLU, Parker will be expanding the program to include more courses and a tract for the prison staff. Modras, a professor in the theology department, taught in the program last fall. He spoke about how even though we are at different places in life we are all apart of the Jesuit family. He had two stories to share about members of the “family.” The first was about Paul, a student inmate who grew so passionate about the Jesuit philosophy that he came to Modras and expressed his desire to do the Spiritual Exercises. The Spiritual Exercises usually require a mentor of some kind to complete. Paul had no access to a mentor, so Modras gave him a book on how to do the Exercises alone. See “Panel” on Page 3
SLU-Fuse aims to assist low-income students By ALLEGRA MERRIWEATHER Contributor
Saint Louis University Undergraduates for SocioEconomic Diversity, known as SLU Fuse, is working to make economic diversity a reality on SLU’s campus through awareness promotion. University Fuse, or U-Fuse which is the coalition under which SLU Fuse operates, works to improve socioeconomic diversity, as well as awareness at our nationís top colleges and universities. “[SLU Fuse] wants to strengthen the alreadyexistent organization and give the same opportunities to all students,” Jamie James, SLU Fuse board member and at-
large liaison member on the national board, said. Two years ago, James partnered with two students from Washington University in St. Louis and one student from Duke University to form U-Fuse, to address socioeconomic diversity among college students. Socio-economics is the study of the relationship between economic activity and social life. The field is often considered multidisciplinary, using theories and methods from sociology, economics, history, psychology and many others. James said that one major push SLU Fuse is addressing is the promotion and advertisement of scholarship opportunities at
the University. There is an emergency fund in place that many don’t know about until it is too late to use, James said. Assistant Provost of Financial Services Cari Wickliffe stated that only about 50 to100 students are taking advantage of this fund. Wickliffe said that the aid is also only offered on a first come, first served basis and should only be used as a last resort. James said that the goal for SLU Fuse this year is increase awareness. The board has incentives in place to acclimate students to the campus, such as working with the Trio campaign, a federal See “SLU-Fuse” on Page 3
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
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Let Us Introduce You
Rubina Baig
DLC chairwoman promotes diversity, dissects sharks By MAHA SALMAN Contributor
Senior Rubina Baig has just assumed the new role as president of the Diversity Leadership Cabinet, and she said she has big plans. Though she was born in Chicago, Baig’s family is from Hyderabad, India. Baig said her ties to her culture remain strong, and that her curiosity for different cultures grows more by the day. “One of the great things about my heritage is the value of family and the beauty of Indian culture and tradition,” Baig said. “Food, clothing, music, dance, art all have developed greatly over the course of centuries, and the influence of surrounding countries is evident in them. On the other hand, it is amazing to see how other countries’ traditions have been affected by Indian culture, too.” A biology and pre-medical major, Baig said she came to SLU, “wanting to try something different.” Therefore, upon arriving at SLU, Baig joined the Filipino Student Association, where she served as secretary her sophomore year. Baig said that, soon, FSA became her family. It was not until her junior year that Baig said she decided to join the Diversity Leadership Cabinet. “The DLC is important to me because each little initiative we start becomes widespread really fast,” Baig said. The DLC serves as the student voice for diversity and social justice concerns on campus. The organization is made up of various representatives from the different ethnic and social justice groups within campus, and strives to promote diversity and social justice awareness. The basic initiative that the DLC wishes to represent on campus is to display respect and appreciation for the different cultures and ethnic groups on campus. “This year, my goal is to bring the definition of diversity to mean more than a difference in race or ethnicity. Diversity actually encompasses every difference between every student,” Baig said. “No matter how big or small that difference, respect is going to be addressed to each person.” Baig said her new plans consist of a Student Creed,
Griesedieck tower receives renovations By MEGAN SAKSEFSKI Contributor
Noah Berman / Photo Editor
which she has revised and edited along with Student Government Association President Cour tney Anvender. “The Creed was something that we felt we needed last year. Some students mentioned there was no sense of ritual or ceremonial pledge of entrance into the University, and many organizations have their pledge to enter as a member of that organization. So, over the summer, I drafted a creed that I thought satisfied the need for acceptance and respect of differences, as well as called for the best character of students, kind of defining the ‘ideal’ Billiken,” Baig said. Baig said that she and Anvender have been working on this creed over the summer and hope to finalize it soon. She said she also wants to expand the Diversity Leadership Cabinet to make it more prevalent on campus. Baig is also working on a video project for her organization. She has been in contact with a video company and has been striving toward creating
a video that will “[showcase] and [encourage] respect for different ethnicities and cultures,” she said. Baig said that she thinks scientific phenomena are interesting, and has been captivated by the field since junior high. Baig said she decided to study biology and premedicine and that she enjoys the learning experiences that have been available to her through her major. “Right now, I’m dissecting sharks in my anatomy class, and over the summer I went spelunking every other day in my cave biology class,” Baig said. “I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.” After graduation, Baig plans to attend medical school and is seeking to become a pediatrician because she said she loves working with children. When she is not studying, Baig enjoys making music, visiting the tennis court and hitting the dance floor to show off her hip-hop skills. She also said she is learning to play classical piano with a little help from her roommate.
Griesedieck Hall, currently home to 484 freshmen and sophomore students, has been under construction since students moved onto campus in mid-August. However, students said that they know little about the construction being done on the building that they call home. “I don’t know what they are doing,” freshman Griesedieck Hall resident Amanda Porter said. “Maybe they are building us a swimming pool up there.” According to Dawn Aldrich, associate director of Housing and Residence Life, the residence hall is undergoing a tuck-pointing procedure. Tuck-pointing, which
Aldrich said is a common construction process, involves replacing and repairing the mortar between brick joints. Even the most structurally sound brick buildings require tuck-pointing maintenance eventually; mortar deteriorates over time from being exposed to the elements. Aldrich said that leaks had been occurring in a number of rooms last year, and that the tuck-pointing procedure would ensure a tight seal to prevent water from entering the rooms through fissures and in the brick. Aldrich said that the project is now in its final stages. “They are done grouting the brick and have begun cleaning and sealing. The projected is expected to be completed by the first week in October,” she said.
Aldrich also responded to rumors about the Griesedieck Towers that have been spread across campus. “There are no bricks falling from the building,” she said. “And the new mattresses in the Griesedieck building were not purchased because the old ones had bed bugs.” The Griesedieck Tower received a major facelift in 2004, which included the addition of the dining hall. Since then, only minor maintenance renovations have been completed on the building. The Griesedieck renovations do not include plans for a rooftop swimming pool, but students can look forward to remaining dry and comfortable in their leak-free dorm rooms.
Erin Twiehaus / Photographer
Billikens and students alike came out for Quad Day on Sept. 22. Quad Day featured an outdoor showing of Toy Story 3 and games to celebrate Homecoming Week.
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SLU goes the virtual distance Contest participants walk to Madrid campus six times
Graphic by Ryan Giacomino by WOLF HOWARD Contributor
More than 900 students, faculty and staff of the Saint Louis University community came together this summer in order to improve and maintain a healthier and more active lifestyle through the “Walk to Madrid” program, held this year from June 1 to Aug. 24. The general goal of the program was for the participating teams to take a virtual walk – that is, to travel the equivalent distance without actually having to walk across the Atlantic Ocean – from the SLU campus in St. Louis to the SLU campus in Madrid, a distance of 4,415 miles, according to the program’s website. In order to accomplish this task, participants were encouraged to take 10,000 steps per day. The idea came from collaboration between Human Resources, Campus Recreation and SLUCare Cardiac Rehab. “We wanted to incorporate the concept of 10,000 steps each day with walking to our Madrid Campus,” Eric Anderson, director of Campus Recreation, said. “Overall, it was meant to increase participants’ physical activity through a team concept and share weekly tips related to overall wellness.” The teams were made up of five to 10 students, faculty
or staff, and each team member received a pedometer to count his or her daily steps. At the end of every week, the teams would sum up their total steps and use the pedometer to calculate how many miles they had traveled. The program was both competitive and cooperative, with each team fighting for awards for the most miles traveled, while at the same time combining their totals into one huge step-count in order to reach the Madrid campus, which is approximately 8.8 million steps from the Frost Campus clocktower. Along with step totals, each week was complimented by a “Tip of the Week” to help participants stay healthy and keep going. Some topics included proper shoe choice, target pulse and heart rate, workout information and maintaining an exercise program well after the “Walk to Madrid” competition was complete. Competitions also included awards for team spirit, best walking photo and most improved team. Anderson said that the program was a great success, with some teams walking a distance equal to cities like Pittsburg, Washington D.C., and the number one team, Extreme Heat, making it to the Atlantic Ocean. In total, the participants made it to Madrid and back
three times for a total distance traveled of 28,287 miles, and a total step-count greater than 56 million. Heidi Buffington, team captain of the Stride Rights, one of the top five teams at the end of the program, said that the program had a positive effect on those that were already physically active, as well as those who didn’t exercise as much. “For people who aren’t usually active and maybe should be, it was a fantastic program,” Buffington said. Buffington is an employee at SLU’s Madrid campus and participates in triathlons. She said that, for her, the program didn’t change much about daily life, but for those on her team that were less athletic, she saw definite improvement. “Many people on my team were commenting that they were taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or were spending time walking after meals,” Buffington said. Buffington also mentioned that, for the most part, stepcounts improved week by week for her teammates and herself. In the end, her team walked 601 miles, a mileage greater than the distance from St. Louis to Pittsburg. “We’d have conversations about how we did during a specific week and I think this helped to keep us going,” Buffington said.
Prison: Program has positive effect on inmates Continued from Page 1
“So, along with Heather Rich from the Corporate Development Office, we worked to put together a grant application to the Hearst Foundation, which turned out to be successful,” Parker said. The Hearst Foundation is a private foundation that works in the fields of education, health and social service. The SLU CIPP received about $150,000 from the Hearst Foundation to put together a program that will provide education for both inmates and prison staff members. Parker recalled how pleased the program officer from the Hearst Foundation was with the program. “She said that this is the most inspiring site visit she had in her 23 years with the Hearst Foundation,” Parker said. “It’s because of our students. They’re very impressive men who have been transformed by the experience of education.” The revamped program will begin in January and will have a curriculum featuring parallel courses for the inmates and the custody officers. Collegein -Prison Programs have been shown to have a positive effect on those who participate in them. On average, once an individual has been incarcerated, there is a 60 percent chance that they will be incarcerated again. When an incarcerated person is educated, however, that chance drops to below 15 percent. “We see this as a matter of civic responsibility. It is the most effective way to create a safer society and to turn some bright people into lawabiding citizens, rather than warehouse them in prisons at $40.000 a year,” said Parker. To date, 15 students have graduated from SLU CIPP. With the Hearst Foundation grant, the program is looking to expand its courses from a certificate in theology to an associates degree in arts. Parker stated that it is a small program, but little more
can be afforded since Pell Grants were pulled for college-in-prison style programs. The Pell Grant is a grant program that provides aid primarily to low-income undergraduate students. In 1994, an initiative by Senator Jesse Helms barred access to these grants for incarcerated individuals, forcing roughly 350 prison education programs to shut down across the country. The argument was if Pell Grants were given to prisoners, law-abiding citizens would not receive them. At the height of the use of Pell Grants for incarcerated persons, however, only six tenths of one percent of the grants issued were given to prisoners. “It was a small sum, but it made a huge difference in prison life,” Parker said. “And our hypothesis is having even a small population going through an undergrad degree program will have a positive effect on prison culture. “ Currently, SLU’s program is the only college-in-prison program in the state of Missouri. It is unique in that it serves not only the inmates, but the prison staff as well. Dr. Tobias Winright, a professor of theological ethics, can attest to how important it is that the prison staff is included. Winright worked his way through college by taking jobs in law enforcement, including some time as a corrections officer in a maximum security facility. “I know from experience that [prison staff] also often lacks adequate resources with which to pursue a degree in higher education, so doing this will hopefully head off any bitterness they might have harbored toward inmates benefitting from this program. Plus it should prove rewarding to these officers participating both personally and professionally,” Winright said. “This program may indeed spark a much needed rethinking of prisons, and I know colleagues at other universities who are expressing interest in transplanting similar programs to their institu-
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
tions.” Parker believes that the heart of SLU CIPPs is in the Gospel of Matthew: 25. “Matthew: 25 is the parable about the king who says to the righteous welcome, because when I was hungry, thirsty, naked, sick, a stranger and in prison, you were present to me. So often all those other dimensions of what Christ said we should do, we think about in very conscience and deliberate way when we think about social justice. And it’s often that last part, ‘in prison’, we leave off the list.” Parker states that working in a prison changed where he sees Christ in the world. To see Christ in prison is a profound realization for him. The change the program has had on the inmates has also been dramatic. In his graduation address, inmate and student, Raymond Scott, spoke of how important the experience in the classroom. “There have been so many memorable people, places and events…but I think the most important thing is that we learned about the human condition and we have grown a little closer to God,” Scott said. “What if we, the bottom rung of society, could have a positive effect, not only on other prisoners, but on the very society we have been removed from?” As the program expands, Parker hopes to see the support extend from the prison to the community. “What I’m conscience of is that the issue of incarceration is not just about people locked up, but the children of the incarcerated,” Parker said. “They are being effected emotionally, academically, they’re living circumstances are not the best.” There is also hope that the program can extend to youths who may be at-risk. “For me as a theologian, I’m speaking from the heart when I say this is God’s project,” Parker said. SLU CIPP creates a lot of hope within the community that real change can be brought to the prison system across the board.
SLU recognized for post-military education by NIHARIKA GOPARAJU Staff Writer
For the second year in a row, Saint Louis University was honored as a “MilitaryFriendly School” in G.I. Jobs’ list. G.I. Jobs is a magazine for military members in transition that offers advice on education opportunities, career tips and how to adapt to a “post-military” lifestyle. This year, SLU was featured among the top 15 percent of colleges as an institution that is giving veterans the best possible educational experience. Specifically, the magazine listed several criteria for this honor: “efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students, results in recruiting military and veteran students, and academic accreditations.” “We are a University with many opportunities for veterans and the military, but I think we mainly received this honor because of our involvement in the Yellow Ribbon Program,” Veteran Certify Official Jennifer Matteson said.
The Yellow Ribbon Program started in August 2009, when the post-9/11 G.I. Bill was registered. This bill created caps on the maximum free tuition awarded. It paid up to the highest public in-state undergraduate tuition and fees. To make it more affordable for the military and veterans, SLU made a deal with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to cover 50 percent of the remaining SLU tuition left after the G.I. bill. The V.A. ended up matching what was left, and this encouraged veterans to pursue an education. “This Yellow Ribbon Program now covers roughly 50 students at SLU and it works on a first come, first served basis. I think the fact that SLU took this opportunity to help out the veterans right away gave us the honor,” Matteson said. The Office of the Registrar was unable to tally the exact amount of military and veterans at SLU, but Matteson said that she roughly certifies around 160. “I think it’s great that
SLU has the Yellow Ribbon Program,” Air Force veteran Sheena Yates, a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences, said. Matteson also said that SLU has many other higher education opportunities for veterans and the military. “SLU allows students to take online classes if they are currently doing military service. The Graduate Business School and Professional Studies School also evaluate military service and transform it into credit through the American Council,” Matteson said. Clayton Berry, director of Media Relations, said that he feels this award exemplifies the values the University upholds. “This honor recognizes our commitment to expanding higher education opportunities for veterans and members of the military,” Berry said. “At SLU, it’s our mission to form students as men and women for others,” Berry said. “The men and women of the Armed Forces have already lived this mission by serving our country.”
SLU Fuse: Campus organization seeks to assist students of low socio-economic status Continued from Page 1
grant given to first generation graduates, and presenting preview days for incoming and prospective students and prospective students in the fields of math and science to decrease the drop-out rate among students, which James said is “huge.” Federal Work Study and Careerlink programs can be difficult for students to find, and, according to James, it took her until her second semester of freshman year
to learn how to apply for a job she said she had needed since the beginning. Another initiative that SLU Fuse has in place is one that seeks to aid anyone desiring to “go Greek.” James said that no one should be denied the opportunity to participate in Greek Life because of a negative financial situation. A possible solution would be for alumni members to contribute to a fund to help people who may not be able to afford the dues and cost of membership.
SLU Fuse was created to increase diversity awareness on campus and to show the University community the importance of tolerance and understanding of others. Student diversity on campus ranges from low-income status to legally emancipated students to single parents. SLU Fuse will continue to work toward these initiatives even after James graduates in December. “We just want to create awareness where there hasn’t been in the past,” James said.
AIMS: Medical department awarded for innovative efforts to educate young students Continued from Page 1
Ray Vollmer, the program’s coordinator, said that AIMS teaches anatomy so that students can do better in the classroom while learning the power of a healthy lifestyle. “Giving young people an opportunity to learn more about their bodies and how to remain healthy is very rewarding,” Suggs said. High school students have been participating in weeklong AIMS summer workshops where they can be exposed to real anatomical experiences, such as suturing labs that they conduct themselves, as well as demonstrations from SLU’s medical school professors on the latest techniques in surgery. AIMS also offers The
Incredible Human Body, a program offered to families who can experience the body in 3-D with a state-of-theart operating microscope and a fully-dissected human cadaver. The facilities within Young Hall, where the AIMS program is located, are innovative with an auditorium to house large 3-D presentations, as well as several labs each containing a monitor so that as students are physically working with the different specimens, it is easy to follow along with the instructor. The AIMS program gathered international attention when the virtual anatomy classroom came to fruition in 2002, with the teleconferences reaching
to 25 different states and Canada. These teleconferences are broadcast in several classrooms at once, allowing for the students to correspond with the medical professional doing the demonstration. Suggs said that the AIMS program exhibits great potential to grow in the coming years, with student attendance increasing significantly as more programs are installed and new innovations are added to the AIMS mission. “We believe that through AIMS, we advance the mission of the University by inspiring the next generation of medical professionals and raising awareness of healthy living that improves the quality of life for all,” Suggs said.
Panel: Professors share stories of teaching in prison Continued from Page 1
“Paul said [the Spiritual Exercises] gave him strength to keep going. The Spiritual Exercises, which he made on his own, were giving him strength,” Modras said. The second stor y was about another student named Jim. In one of the readings assigned, Jim expressed a serious problem with the use of the word “integrity.” He had been subjected to a screening, which required him to urinate for testing. He protested, stating he was unable to urinate on command. The officer conducting the test responded by saying that, “the integrity of the system says you need to urinate on command,” and punished him by putting him in solitary confinement for eight months. The same officer later reduced his sen-
tence and took him out of confinement. “When he told the story,” said Modras, “there was no anger, no resentment.” To Modras, Jim was an example of forgiveness we rarely ever see. Dr. Kaplan, another theology professor, spoke about his recent experience teaching in the Bonne Terre Prison. “I had to go through an orientation process. The impression I got from the orientation was that the prisoners may seem nice, but they are really all out to manipulate you. And before you know it, you’ll be a drug mule or something.” Kaplan admitted that he was a little scared when he first walked into the classroom, but he soon came to realize that the inmates were normal people and he was
merely adhering to an image he had built about them. One of the most important things he realized about the program was the sense of belonging and kinship that was built in the classroom. “It’s not so much they taught me and I learned a lot, but the sense of belonging was what mattered. At the end of the class, I felt some sadness. And I really miss those guys,” Kaplan said The panel was followed by a short question and answer session, much of which addressed the future plans for the program. The night ended with an opportunity for the students in attendance to meet with leaders of various service organizations to learn how they could get involved with similar programs.
Erin Twiehaus / Photographer
Kenneth Parker answers questions at the “Finding Christ in Prison” panel Wednesday night.
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SLU extends its Jesuit mission, breaking barriers and bars, to educate Summer exhales its final breaths these people on the social spectrum avoid harmdays; we revel in the heat of the sun by ful behaviors, but also by ensuring the day and feel the chill of fall creep at the safety of surrounding community members onset of night. When we make our hurried outside of prison. We are taught in theology that divinescapes from cold, air-conditioned rooms to the refreshing glow of the sun outside, ity lies in love and kindness for others, an our skin tingles and warms with the thrill- idea grounded in the sophism of shared ing change of temperature. We relish this humanity. Doctrine aside, this holds true freedom from the constraining classroom. as a maxim: we deser ve kindness as human Ironically, the classroom is where the beings and we are moved by it. Theology, while based in Christian incarcerated at the pedagogy and doctrine, Eastern Reception and introduces us to a moral Diagnostic Correctional compass that can gear Center in Bonne Terre, We are taught in theology us toward becoming kind Mo. are experiencing a similar rejuvethat divinity lies in love and individuals. The altruism this program extends nation. The Theology kindness for others, an idea that toward inmates can help Depar tment at Saint grounded in the sophism of improve the rehabilitaLouis University recenttion process that so many ly started the College in a shared humanity. jails disregard or neglect; Prison Program there, they can gain more than which gives these india degree from their time viduals oppor tunities spent in these congruous to earn an associate’s degree in theology. With our Jesuit mission and communal learning environments. Theology shouldn’t be the only subject in mind, professors are helping inmates in the process of recovering stable societal taught, however. The program can give more to these people, should other degrees niches. The program has potential to cultivate be made available. We want to see the probright futures. A majority of inmates that gram expand to include other majors, perreceive some kind of education while ser v- mitting inmates to seek different jobs with ing their time will successfully integrate more stable futures, post-prison. This program embraces the notion that into society – only a ver y few relapse into crime. Guards are also included in this pro- people deser ve to transform their lives. gram; since guards tend to be on the same Through that gradual process of imbibing socio-economic level as the people they the knowledge that we call education, we watch, they equally gain greater access to hope that released inmates will not only better job opportunities with a degree. We be rejuvenated by a vivacious sun after the act as men and women for others by not cold of their long years in prison, but also only helping some of the most neglected empowered with a degree in hand.
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New policy disallows flexibility for small CSO events Throngs of students would likely flock to the Busch Student Center’s Wool Ballrooms if Malcolm Gladwell were to comply to a last minute talk while promoting his latest book. Chaifetz Arena would be packed if Lance Armstrong were to schedule a short appearance at Saint Louis University after speaking at another venue. Situations like these occur more frequently than one would predict. As a result, many events are booked in such a fashion. More precisely, other institutions are those that schedule events in an approach of such happenstance and flexibility. Due to a combination of work by Department of Student Life and Student Government Association (though mainly the former), SLU’s student body can anticipate a decrease in politicians, academics and media personas that grace our campus. Plain and simple, SLU students – as well as organizations – are hurt by a very recent policy change. If not for a member of SGA, a participant in a Chartered Student Organization (CSO) or a student with his/her ear to the ground for the procedural campus rumblings, the policy itself would not attract much attention or be of much interest. SGA amended the requisite number of days necessary to seek approval for events – such as speakers – and increased the amount of formal paperwork, as well. Prior to the change, the administration required five business days to authorize hosting any event.
Now, 20 business days are required. After receiving confirmation of the event five business days after booking a room, CSOs now have to suffer through a near month-long wait before they can actually host it. If an entire month is needed to authorize an event, SLU students can say goodbye to the prospect of impromptu visits from individuals of interest as their schedules open unexpectedly. Opportunities are not all that will be lost, however. By bringing fewer speakers and hosting fewer events, the possibility for smaller CSOs to grow and increase involvement from students may present itself. Therefore, a less impressive request for funding is then generated at the close of the year, and the likelihood diminishes for the organization’s survival in subsequent semesters. SLU is an institution of higher learning that prizes augmenting its students’ awareness of dynamics in their surrounding environments. Why, then, make providing supplementary educational activities, like listening to presentations from scholars, more difficult? All aspects of our campus, whether administrative or student-run, must work in tandem to put the interests of the student body first. The jump from 5 business days to 20 may appear marginal, but the effect will certainly be felt when we begin to wonder why authors and dignitaries are speaking at every school but ours.
Posted below are the results from our web poll on The University News’ website. These are the current opinions on the name for our new Billiken cartoon!
Adviser Jason L. Young jyoung42@slu.edu The Editorial Board of The University News Recognizes Avis Meyer, Ph.D. as the newspaper’s faculty mentor.
Peony Lee / Illustrator
What should our front page Billiken cartoon be named? 41%
Bender (old SLU football coach)
39%
Blue
16%
Claude (founder of the UNews) Baxter
4% 0
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Student Activities Board worked hard to book homecoming act In an editorial published last week, the author voiced an opinion about the job that Student Activities Board did, or, as indicated, failed to do, in putting together this year’s homecoming festivities. I would be remiss in my duties as president if I did not reply to this editorial in the organization’s defense. Many months of planning went into making sure that homecoming would live up to student expectations. Much of the work was accomplished during the summer, when committee members were scattered across the globe and were supposed to be enjoying their break. I never heard a complaint when they were asked to give up their time to spend hours planning for homecoming. During our planning, one of the challenges we ran into was the cancellation of the concert’s headlining act. We confirmed the event with hiphop artist B.o.B., but he backed out at the end of July to take part in a European tour. We consulted to compile a list of alternate acts, and contacted our production team for availability and price. However, we can only send out one bid at a time, also causing a delay in solidifying an act. We have a budget that designates an amount for homecoming to cover all costs associated with it. Some acts were too expensive. Other acts took several weeks to respond, even though there was consistent follow-up on our end. After reviewing the student body surveys, we were finally able to match an act on the list with one that was available: Tonic. The choice may not be the top preference for everyone (as any artist really is), but we believe that everyone who attends the concert will have a fantastic time rocking out with their friends and fellow students. In closing, everyone is entitled to voice their opinions about the homecoming celebration. All comments will be welcomed and would prove valuable for the future. However, we ask that this feedback be given in a productive and appropriate manner, and not in a disrespectful editorial, where no one person takes responsibility for the comments made. SAB is here to serve the students and I am very proud of the job we have done thus far. I know how much effort and time was involved in the planning, and hope that all of the students and alumni and their families will have a wonderful, enjoyable time. Hope to see ever yone there! -Stephanie Hart, President, Student Activities Board
Quotes of the week
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For me as a Theologian I was speaking from the heart when I say this is God’s project.
-- Kenneth Parker, associate professor for Theological Studies
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See Page 3
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There are no bricks falling from the building, and the new mattresses in the Griesedieck building were not purchased because the old ones had bed bugs.
-- Dawn Aldrich, associate director of Housing and Residence Life
See Page 2
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Opinion
unewsonline.com
SLU students fight epic battles for shuttle seats The reality of transpor- campus. tation for most college stuAt present, the untimely dents can be a thorny subject. nature of the shuttle buses Generally, has left me late for class on a t h r e e total of four occasions, and my Commentary options are punctuality is not the issue. available I arrive at the shuttle stop to car-less well before the suggested Saint Louis time, and have often found University myself opting to walk rather s t u d e n t s than stand around wondering who must if the shuttle were making c o m m u t e its stops on time. Inclement to the weather also often prevents m e d i c a l myself and other students Megan Saksefski c a m p u s from deciding to walk to for class. class. Option Overall, the shuttle bus one, walking, is not a bad has proved itself to be less choice. reliable than Wikipedia. It’s great cardiovascular If the University intends exercise and helps reduce to have students moving a college student’s sky-high from campus to campus, they risk of blood clots from sitting should certainly provide a in class all day. simple way for students to get Option where they t w o — have class. riding a W i t h bicycle— cold weathoffers a er and the The current scramble G r a n d scenic p e d a l for shuttle bus seats Bc l roisdu gr ee across resembles something q u i c k l y the Grand Bridge, close to the final scenes appr oachand chaling, the of Titanic. lenges already students over flowto an ing shuttle always-exhilarating game of buses will likely experience a “dodge-the-oncoming-pedes- vast increase in student travtrians-on-the-nar row-side- elers. walk”. Finally, there is the The current scramble for third option, which although shuttle bus seats resembles the most unreliable, contin- something close to the final ues to be the most popular: scenes of Titanic, a microcosthe shuttle. mic drama of its own. If the current shuttle sysThere is very clearly a suptem is the very best trans- ply-and-demand issue, and to portation service that the ensure that all SLU students University can provide can move about easily, the between campuses, SLU’s University needs to obtain medical campus commuters more shuttle buses. will face severe difficulties Larger buses would also come winter. be a valid option. As a student without an Any new improvements to automobile at SLU, I have this current terrible situation found my options for getting would likely be highly valued from place to place fairly lim- by the thousands of SLU stuited. dents commuting to and from I could live comfortably the medical campus. with the limitations—if I had a reliable method of getting Megan Saksefski is a freshto my classes on the medical man in the School of Nursing
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
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Newspaper and book industries in decline As a little girl I can still remember waking up each morning and going in the kitchen to find my Commentary parents with the newspaper spread out in front of them. People could always count on finding Nicole Palazzolo a newspaper on their front porches if they subscribed to it, and if they didn’t, then it would be nothing to walk down the street and buy one for 75 cents or so. However, it seems recently that not only the newspaper industry, but even the paper book industry, is in decline. People are stepping out to get the newspaper off their driveways, and reading that their once-reliable paper is going out of business, while others are reading ads for new computer books. Last year newspapers lost $37.85 billion in total revenue. That is $7.5 billion less than in 2007. Print advertising, which helps keep newspapers running, declined by 17.7 percent. Anyway, what I am trying to say is that technology is definitely changing our lives each and every day — and this is a fine example. It is so simple just to turn on one’s computer and find the big headlines or even to log into the newspaper’s own website. It seems reporters are now writing for the articles on the Internet, rather than the articles in the paper. Recently, devices like the Kindle or Barnes and Noble’s Nook are replacing paperback books with computerized ones. They advertise that the books are downloaded from the Internet and are cheaper than store books. What happened to going
Starla Salazar/Illustrator
to the bookstore and the euphoria one feels after selecting a favorite? I admit, as an avid book-lover and college student that even I have succumb to modern technology and bought a book to avoid getting hold of a car in a busy city like St. Louis and driving. Secretly, though, I will sometimes go to my bookstore when I am at home and buy books the old-fashioned way. Don’t get me wrong: I do like computers and technology. In a lot of aspects, it makes all our lives easier. However, as I grow older I find myself reading the newspaper while eating my bowl of cereal in the morning. It is my time to catch up on what is going on not only in the world but in my own city. I’m too lazy to go to my lap-
top; and by the time I would think to, I’d be done with my cereal and too busy to look up the daily happenings of the world. Some people might argue that the economy is what is hurting the once-flourishing industry, and while that is indeed true to a point, I believe the downfall of printed papers continues as Internet access becomes more accessible. However, one should not panic—for newspapers and printed books are long from dead. The process of newspaper and book printing dates back several centuries and will continue for years to come. Though, with the increase in technology, there might be a day when one wakes up and there will be no newspaper waiting to be read. Paper boys will no longer
get up at the crack of dawn, and what we will then rely on to inform us of the world’s activities will be the sources on the Internet. The world is continually changing, but reporters will still be the first to cover a big story and authors can continue to write. It is just the way we read or receive these works that will change. So while the world continues to grow and change with better and more efficient ways of doing different activities I think I will try to move along with what the future has in store. But I will certainly try to hold on to the old way of doing things for a little while longer. Nicole Palazzolo is a freshman in the College of Arts and
Eating competition contrary to SLU mission People defined by their The school year is now in full swing, and campus activities have begun to expand the waistlines of our soCommentary cial calendars. Thus, a note to the wise: Moderation and mindfulness is necessar y to promote a healthy, Fred Rottnek & well-roundJesse Walls ed graduate. One such event that needed careful consideration was the $250 Graduate Challenge. On Sept. 9, Saint Louis University promoted The U’s student food challenge in that week’s issue. The competition described a successful challenge as the complete consumption of the restaurant’s featured sandwich: The Graduate. The Graduate is comprised of two beef patties, four strips of bacon, two chicken strips, a fried egg, chili, four cheeses, fried onion strings and cheese sauce. Upon devouring this mammoth meal, the challenger is rewarded with a cash prize. The event’s proceeds will be given to the SLU Center for Entrepreneurship scholar-
ship fund. At face value, this appears to be a simple novelty event, involving one of America’s growing “sports”competitive eating, while raising funds for financially challenged students. Competitive eating has many critical claims that question the individual practice of said activities. For instance, participants may experience threats to their personal health: cardiovascular related illness, spiritual conviction – sins of gluttony, suffering invading nausea and vomiting without compensation, etc. However, given our shared value of freedom, we recognize that all participants will make their choice based on individual motives and justification, which may or may not be linked to their personal values. To those persons we say be careful: You may mirror disparaging actions of your academic institution. The purpose of this response is to question whether competitive eating is consistent with SLU’s Mission statement, the shared principles and values upon which the University founds its actions. Although a complete exegesis is beyond the scope of this response, we provide the following excerpts which
may provide initial points for reflection. The SLU Mission Statement reads: [SLU] is dedicated to leadership in the continuing quest for understanding of God’s creation and for the discovery, dissemination and integration of the values, knowledge and skills required to transform society in the spirit of the Gospels. [SLU] fosters programs that link University resources to local, national and international communities in collaborative efforts to alleviate ignorance, poverty, injustice and hunger; extend compassionate care to the ill and needy; and maintain and improve the quality of life for all persons.” Before parsing-out the relevant concepts within our excerpts, let’s first consider a few facts associated with food, global suffering and poverty. Currently, 68 percent of Americans are either overweight or obese. In 2006, more than onethird (831,272) of all deaths were related to a form of cardiovascular disease. Six million children die in the world every year, due to starvation and malnutrition. Meat-eating alone contributes to two of the top three causes of global warming. Given the juxtaposition of
global famine and local abundance, how does SLU’s promotion of engulfing food for personal motives bed with an orientation toward integrated Christian values, for example ‘dissemination and integration of the values...to transform society in the spirit of the Gospels,’ ‘efforts to alleviate ignorance, poverty, injustice and hunger; extend compassionate care to the ill and needy; and maintain and improve the quality of life for all persons?’ If Christian values speak to promoting behaviors that attribute value to ourselves and others, then a justification to encourage our students to waste food and poorly treat their bodies is hypocritical at best and heretical at worst. In the future, let us consider, when we mindlessly act without consideration of our core community values, that our actions and behaviors become our core values we hold. Jesse Walls, MSW, is the Sr. Research Assistant at SLU Family and Community Medicine. Fred Rottnek, MD, is an Associate Professor at SLU Family and Community Medicine.
Starla Salazar /Illustrator
roots and passions I’m a big believer in the idea that life is about the journey, not the destination. However, I think that this popuCommentary lar saying lacks some insight. Sure, the journey is important, but how do you start it if you don’t know from Laura Hicks where you are starting? The starting point. To me, it is just as crucial as the journey itself. Whether we’d like to admit it or not, our past, our background and our upbringing all have something to do with who we are as individuals today. If your goal is, to change who that person is or, like myself, just try to understand that person better, you have to look at the starting point. I’m a Det r o i t e r. I was born and raised five minutes outside of Motown. I ’ m a proud citizen of Hockeytown and a true lover of the Motorcity. Detroit is home. It is my starting point, and like any map, I would not be able to find direction without it. Although I may name my starting point after an actual city, it doesn’t mean that its location is what makes it important. Location really has nothing to do with a journey. While it may be more exciting to tell a story that happened in New Zealand instead of New Jersey, location isn’t what makes a journey successful. Yes, I would much rather visit Prague than Pittsburgh, but that is not to say life lessons cannot be learned anywhere and everywhere. I believe a starting point is not a certain location, but is rather the aspects of life that have created an individual being.
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Detroit means more than just a set of city limits to me. It’s a rhythm that, over time, tends to synchronize with the beat of your heart. It’s a collaboration of people working together, whenever and however, to bring back a once-thriving and unique culture that was lost amongst years of turmoil and defeat. It’s hope. This is where I have started my journey. I have started with the rhythm of Detroit pulsing through my veins and the never-ending beauty of hope keeping me determined to find my path, just as Detroit is trying to find its way back to its own. Just as Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love, has inspired me to pursue this journey of self-discovery, I have been deeply inspired by another writer to never let my starting point out of sight. Another native Detroiter, Chris Hansen, affected me with his Dateline NBC special about Detroit in ways that I didn’t realize until I began writing this column. I was more than extremely lucky to get to hear Mr. Hansen speak right on SLU’s campus just days after I realized how crucial his work has been to my own path of selfdiscovery. After a wonderfully funny and motivational speech, I spoke to him one-on-one about our shared hometown. It seemed obvious to me that both of our starting points were Detroit. However, my talk with him fueled something else within me – passion. “Find passion,” he told us near the end of his speech, and I believe that is what I am doing now. Together, my hope and my passion will lead me on a journey of growth I never really knew could be so enlightening and inspiring.
I believe a starting point is not a certain location, but is rather the aspects of life that have created an individual being.
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Laura Hicks is a junior in the College of Education and Public Service.
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Arts OUT ON THE TOWN Ashley’s Picks Thursday, September 23 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Shrek the Musical The Fox Theatre For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 4 p.m.- 1 a.m. Late Night Putt-Putt The Quad Friday, September 24 4:30 - 6 p.m. Studio Art Faculty Annual Exhibition Boileau Hall (End of West Pine Mall at Vandeventer) 7 p.m. Homecoming Concert: Javier Mendoza with Tonic The Georgetown Parking Lot (behind Griesedick) 8 p.m. HotCity Theatre: Equus The Kranzberg Arts Center For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 8 p.m. Shrek the Musical The Fox Theatre For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 8 p.m. West End Players Guild: Picasso Theatre at Union Avenue Christian Church (755 Union Blvd.) Admission is $18 Saturday, September 25 1-9 p.m. Dancing in the Street Festival Grand Center Admission is free 7 p.m. So You Think You Can Dance The Chaifetz Arena For ticket prices visit thechaifetzarena.com 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Shrek the Musical The Fox Theatre For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 8 p.m. HotCity Theatre: Equus The Kranzberg Arts Center For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 8 p.m. West End Players Guild: Picasso Theatre at Union Avenue Christian Church (755 Union Blvd.) Admission is $18 Sunday, September 26 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Shrek the Musical The Fox Theatre For ticket prices visit fabulousfox.com 2 p.m. Department of Fine and Performing Arts: Faculty Recital Saint Francis Xavier College Church Music by James Nancy and Diana Umali 2 p.m. West End Players Guild: Picasso Theatre at Union Avenue Christian Church (755 Union Blvd.) Admission is $18
The University News Talk to us: Ashley Jones 314.977.2812 arts.unews@gmail.com
Thursday, September 23, 2010
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Almost, Maine tells love stories Romantic comedy first production of theatre’s season By SHELBY ROZIER
By Katerina Canyon
Contributor
Saint Louis University’s University Theatre will begin its 2010-2011 season with Almost, Maine, written and originally directed by John Cariani. “Almost, Maine is a romantic comedy that highlights many different love stories with magical twists thrown into them all,” freshman Assistant Stage Manager, James Hawkins said. The play takes place in the fictional, northern town of Almost, Maine and follows the story of Almost’s residents as they find themselves falling unexpectedly in and out of love. “What makes the show so entertaining is that all the characters are so literal. If they say, ‘I’m falling in love with you,’ they are literally falling down. It’s hilarious,” Hawkins said. There is one particular scene that illustrates the romantic nature of the play best, and it just happens to be senior cast member Chris Lyons. “’Getting it Back.’ Considering the play is a bunch of love stories in a mythical setting, this scene best establishes the narrative and is also the most moving of all the scenes,” Lyons said. The cast is made up of 10 actors: five women and five men. Each of the actors plays two different characters throughout the show. They have been doing four and five hour rehearsals every day. Tom Martin is the director of the production. “I always enjoy rehearsals with Tom. He is interested in getting into the ‘meat’ of the story in its own unique way,” Lyons said. Lyons feels that he is able to identify with his character best in the scene “Story of Hope.” “Everyone has had someone in their life that they regret losing; this scene is all about that,” Lyons said Almost, Maine is creating a buzz around campus with students expressing excitement for the play. Freshman Arthur Congo is excited to see his resident advisor, Billy Bommarito, in the upcoming play. “Billy really supports all of us in whatever we do, so it
Kleinzahler to serve as writerin-residence Contributor
Noah Berman / Photo Editor
Seniors Erin Almand and James Canfield are part of the cast for romantic comedy Almost, Maine. This is the first production for the Saint Louis University Theatre’s 2010-2011 season. will be cool to watch the show and be able to support him. I look up to him, and I know he’ll appreciate his floor being there,” Congo said. The actors are not the only ones preparing for the upcoming play. There are many more people who have been contributing to the preparations for the production, such as the set and costume designers. “I haven’t really started working on anything yet, but
I love theatre, and I am so excited to get started on creating costumes. I want to meet everyone in the production.” costume designer Felice Lavergne said. Since it first opened in the winter of 2005, Almost, Maine has been produced in the United States, as well as places around the world, such as Australia, Germany, Korea and the United Arab Emirates. “The show is coming to-
gether wonderfully. It’s so fun to be a part of. It’s going to be great once it’s all put together,” Lyons said. The show opens Oct. 1 and runs on the weekends of Oct. 1 and Oct. 8. Shows will take place in Xavier Hall Theatre on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The theatre is located on the lower level of the building. Tickets range from $7 for students to $10 for adult general admission.
On Sept. 27, renowned writer and poet August Kleinzahler will join Saint Louis University as its Jean Drahmann writer-in-residence. During his stay, which will continue through Oct. 8, Kleinzahler will be giving a live poetry reading, in addition to a talk on the craft of poetry. “His poems often have a delightful, sardonic humor and crackling energy. Reading him, one feels that anything might enter the poem; anything might happen,” associate English professor Devin Johnston said. Kleinzahler comes to St. Louis after recently completing a series of readings in Australia. He is traveling here from California, where he has lived for over 30 years. Despite his current residency, he was raised in Fort Lee, N.J., which he considers to be his home. Kleinzahler has authored of a dozen books of poetry and prose. He was most recently awarded the 2008 National Books Critics Circle Award in Poetry for his book Sleeping It Off in Rapid City. Allen Ginsberg is famously quoted as saying that Kleinzahler’s “verse line is always precise, concrete, intelligent and rare - that quality of ‘chiseled’ verse memorable of Basil Bunting’s and Ezra Pound’s work. A loner, a genius.” In response to Ginsberg, Kleinzahler was very modest and self-effacing. “He’s very kind... he was a very sweet man... quite a marvel... the young man he met was certainly not a genius... [Ginsberg] probably knew that quote would follow me around in a nice way... he did me a kindness,” Kleinzahler said. The writer had the opportunity to study under Basil Bunting at the University of Victoria in British Columbia. Kleinzahler said that “learning that a poem is a composition that is meant to be read aloud in oral medium as it sits on a page like a musical score waiting for the voice bring it to life...” is one of most important things he learned with See “Kleinzahler” on Page 8
‘If you could only see’ Tonic at Homecoming By ASHLEY JONES Arts Editor
After much speculation, Student Activities Board released the name of their act: Tonic. The band will be performing at the homecoming concert, which will take place on Sept. 24. Upon mentioning the name of the act, many are confused and unfamiliar with whom they are. However, mention the name of their hit ‘90s song “If You Could Only See” and some of this confusion is lifted. This rock band was formed in Los Angeles in the early 90s by singer Emerson Hart and guitarist Jeff Russo who were childhood friends. Shortly after, bassist Dan Lavery joined them. They released their first album, “Lemon Parade”, in 1996. The album went on to reach platinum status and its hit “If You Could Only See” was the most played rock song of 1997. It also contained lesser-known songs such as “Open Up Your Eyes,” “Casual Affair” and “Wicket Soldier”. After the success of their debut album, the band released two more: “Sugar” in 1999 and “Head on Straight” in 2002. Sugar contained songs such as “Knock Down Walls,” “Sugar,” and “You Wanted More,” which was featured on the American Pie Soundtrack. “Head on Straight” included songs like “Take Me as I Am,” “Believe Me,” and “Do You Know.” However, after nearly ten years of touring, the band decided to take a break. During this break the three musicians worked on solo projects. Hart released a solo album in 2007 called “Cigarettes and Gasoline.” This album produced two Top 20 singles. Lavery built a recording studio and
had the opportunity to record and tour with acts such as The Fray. Russo composed songs for film and television shows such as Crossing Jordan along with releasing an album with Low Stars. In addition, they all took time to spend with their families. In 2009, the band released “A Casual Affair: The Best of Tonic” which was made up of 12 songs from their three albums. However, in May 2010 the band came out of hiatus and released new material in the form of a self-titled album.
This album contains songs such as “Release Me,” “Daffodil,” and “I Want It to Be.” Since their formation, the band has sold over four million records, had six top ten singles, released platinum albums and received Grammy nominations. The band has been on tour since May promoting their new album, and are set to play four more shows after their performance at SLU. “The group has some good classic songs that fit the values of homecoming well, and their type of music fits the bill
for what many SLU students ask for when polled about the concert,” Coordinator for Student Activities Janelle Densberger said. SAB president Stephanie Hart had a similar opinion, “We are glad to have them.” The concert will begin at 7 p.m. and will take place in the Georgetown Parking Lot behind Griesedieck Hall. The opening act will be St. Louis resident Javier Mendoza. For more information about the band, their music or their tour dates, visit toniconline.com.
Brendan Waldoch, Sophomore, John Cook School of Business
“Tonic. I’ve only heard one single and I don’t even remember what it’s called. My friend on SAB showed me the original list and there were a lot of good bands on it, but oh, well.
Joanna Hoge, Senior, College of Arts and Sciences
“Tonic? I’ve never heard of them. What kind of music is it?”
Mark Perniciaro, Sophomore
Photo Courtesy of tonic-online.com
Tonic will be the opening act at the 2010 Homecoming Concert on Sept. 24. The rock band from Los Angeles formed in the 90s, and has since released five albums.
“I don’t know the band that is headlinging Friday night. I would like to see The Beatles, or The Apples and Stereo. They did a show last year and are a really fun, electronicy-pop band. ”
Arts unewsonline.com 8 Guild celebrates 100th season Non-for-profit provides shoes to those in need Thursday, September 23, 2010
Opening with performance of Picasso
By MARIA MULDOON Staff Writer
How many pairs of shoes are in your closet? Do you really wear every single pair? Many people do not consider how many shoes they have accumulated over time. When Wayne Elsey, CEO and founder of Soles4Souls, asks these thought-provoking questions, he helps people realize a better use for those dusty pairs of sneakers. Back in 2004 when a catastrophic tsunami struck Southeast Asia, Elsey, like many, was left wondering what he could do to help. He decided to focus his efforts on one mission: shoes. Through his efforts, he was able to donate over a quarter million shoes to disaster victims. His motto is simple: changing the world one pair at a time. Since then, the non-profit organization that became known as Soles4Souls has donated over 11 million shoes to those affected by other natural disasters. The organization has been able to continue their efforts with the help of donations and volunteers. However, the Nashville-based charity is now experiencing a
crisis of their own. They are running out of shoes Their intense and constant aid to victims of natural disasters has bled dry their supply of new and gently-worn shoes. The shortage is a two-part problem, according to Elsey. “First, Americans are hurting…In everything from the economy to the job market, Americans everywhere are struggling,” he said. With an increased poverty rate of 14.3 percent and an unemployment rate of 9.6 percent, many people and businesses are just not able to be as generous as they once were. The second part of the problem is that the organization has simply spread itself too thin with their generosity. Members have made it their mission not only to bring shoes to those recently affected by disaster, but to continue supporting those who need it. Soles4Souls is still sending thousands of shoes to Katrina survivors in the Gulf region while struggling to aid the three million people left destitute after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. “Today we shipped out one million pairs of shoes to Hai-
Kleinzahler: Poet hopes to spend time with students
Photo Courtesy of John Lamb
Miss Fischer (Maggie Murphy) lights a cigarette for Pablo Picasso (Kevin Beyer) in A Picasso. The play begins the 100th season for the West End Players Guild. By MATT BOMMARITO Staff Writer
This year marks the start of the 100th season for the West End Player’s Guild, which is one of the oldest continually operating theatre companies in St. Louis. They will be putting on a performance of A Picasso. Directed by Steve Callahan, A Picasso is a fictional story that takes place during the Nazi occupation of Paris in World War II. The Nazis have entered Paris and are stealing art by the ton. Aside from just merely collecting art, they also wish to destroy all art that they deem “degenerate art,” which is any type of art that is not realistic in nature. In other words, there is no surrealism, no cubism, no abstract paintings and most importantly, no Picasso. The story is about Pablo Picasso, played by Kevin Beyer, and a woman from the Nazi ministry of culture named Miss Fisher, played by Maggie Murphy, whose job it is to verify that the looted Picasso paintings are authentic and not forgeries. “They aren’t going to burn a forgery; they want to burn the real thing,” Callahan said. In essence, there are three different realities happening in the play. “She’s under pressure to get the authentication done. He’s fighting like hell to save his art. And in the process we find out a lot about Picasso and his attitude toward art,
his fellow partners [and] his attitude toward women. He was a notorious [ladies’ man]; he ran through women like they were going out of style,” Callahan said. One of the main works of art that is discussed during the play is Picasso’s Guernica. During the Spanish Civil War, the government of Spain commissioned Picasso to paint a mural to be exhibited in the Spanish pavilion of the 1938 Paris World’s Fair. Picasso did not really know what to paint until Guernica happened. It was a small town in Basque country that was a very involved with anarchist and communist resistance against Franco’s fascist government. Franco commissioned the help of the Nazi government in Germany, which was eager to test out its new air force. It was the first time a city was bombed from airplanes. It was so catastrophic and terrifying that Picasso decided that that was what he was going to paint for the World’s Fair. Naturally, the Nazis want to destroy a painting that depicts them and fascism in a negative light. The dialogue between Picasso and Miss Fisher is the central element of the story. “This struggle that goes on between Miss Fisher and Picasso is intense; it is passionate, it is cunning,” Callahan said. “They almost come to a deal, and she is willing to half-believe some of his lies, and he kind of agrees with something that would satisfy her. There is almost a meet-
ing of the minds, but then it falls apart.” The play also takes a deeper look into Picasso’s psyche and character, as well as into political, social and cultural issues. “What an incredibly productive genius. Treated his women like dirt, he really did. But he cared about the stuff he put out,” Callahan said. This year is the West End Player’s Guild’s 100th season of theatre. It originally started out as a loose association of people that would do theatre in each other’s houses. The Players, as they were called, put on their first show in 1911. The Players are unique in that they completely embraced all aspects of theatre. “It was a situation of: Today, I’m going to be the lead in the show, and the next time I’ll direct it, and next time I’ll set up the chairs. And it’s so amazingly rare to have that because usually in a theatre group everyone wants to be in the show,” President Reneé Sevier Monsey said. She went on to say that, in the future, she hopes for West End Player’s Guild to reach out to the community more and strengthen ties with the local area performing arts high schools. If you are planning on going to see A Picasso, reservations are suggested. It will be playing Sept. 24- Oct. 3 at the Union Avenue Christian Church in the Central West End, 733 Union Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108. Tickets are $18 each.
Affleck’s ‘The Town’ presents surprising drama Based on Chuck Hogan’s novel, Prince of Thieves, Ben Affleck’s The Town delivers a dramaCommentary filled action flick. Though he both wrote and directed the film, Affleck still has time to give a star perLuciano Formilan formance. And although slow at times, the gun fights and realistic storyline ultimately save The Town. Taking place in blue-collar Charlestown, Mass., the film follows four bank robbers’ endeavors in a town where everyone knows the business of everyone else. Affleck delivers as Doug MacRay, a mastermind career criminal who lives his life day to day. As the movie begins, Doug
and his partners James 'Jem' Coughlin (Jeremy Renner), Albert 'Gloansy' Magloan (Slaine) and Dino Ciampa (Titus Welliver) rob a bank in Rastafarian skeleton masks. It becomes clear very quickly that this is not their first bank robbery, as they execute their plan precisely and efficiently. However, this moment represents the dividing point for the rest of the film, as Doug and Jem slowly move down two different life paths. As the robbery occurs, the bank manager, Claire Keesey (Rebecca Hall), is forced to open the vault, and Doug takes pity on her. Meanwhile, Jem beats the other manager's face with the butt of his rifle. Fearing Claire could reveal their identities, Doug stalks her and falls in love. However, as more robberies further fuel the hunt of the four friends by FBI agent Adam Frawley (Jon Hamm), Doug and Claire's relation-
ship becomes complicated. And, as a final robbery of Fenway Park is planned, Doug has to choose between the friends who he grew up with or his new life with Claire. The film's realism left me feeling as though I grew up with the four friends. The cinematography of Boston is excellent, and significantly adds to the hometown feel. The bank robberies are enjoyable, with gun fights exhibiting the truth in a man's desperation to make a quick buck. The surprising twist, however, is not the ending, but in the ever-present drama of the film. Doug's life is full of hardship. While this often engages audience members, the film does drag at times. However, overall, The Town was an entertaining film, and I look forward to Ben Affleck’s next directorial effort.
ti,” Elsey said. However, to him, that is not enough. The commitment Elsey and his staff have to their cause has pushed them to stretch the limits and still succeed. It is obvious that he fully believes in the mission of his organization. “Eleven million is admirable, but it’s nothing compared to the 300 million that still don’t have shoes,” he said. Elsey hopes to gain support not by boasting, but by creating awareness about the problem. “There is a big need out there [for shoes]; we need help filling in that gap,” he said. Elsey is calling on every single American to help. “Americans go clean out your closets!” Those who do not have shoes to donate can still help. For every dollar donated toward Soles4Souls, a pair of shoes is donated to someone in need. Currently, there are three drop-off locations around St. Louis. For more information regarding donations, drop-off locations, as well upcoming events, visit their website at www.soles4souls.org.
Continued from Page 7
Noah Berman/Photo Editor
Prefuse 73 and Royal Bangs played at the Billiken Club on Sept. 22. Above Guillermo Scott Hendren of Prefuse 73, an experimental hip-hop producer, plays the key board.
Bunting. Kleinzahler said that he is always working on something. “When something is ready to pop, it makes itself known to me. I don’t really control it. My writing has a life of its own, and I think that’s one of the upsetting things about poetry for me, because I can’t control it,” he said. During his visit to SLU, Kleinzahler expects to spend time with students and faculty, sharing his work and his experiences. He looks forward to getting the opportunity to sit down with students and discuss the craft of poetry and writing. Kleinzahler’s poetry reading will be on Sept. 28 at 4 p.m. in Boileau Hall. His lecture on the craft of poetry will be on Oct. 5 at the same time and place. For more information, go to the Sheila Nolan Whalen Reading Series website, at http://www.slu.edu/x33351. xml.
Sports Blue Crew Athletic Department to announce new name in next week’s University News After recieving ideas submitted by the student body, the Athletic Department has selected 10 possible names for the student cheering section. Students are encouraged to vote for the new name via their SLU email address. The winning idea and the new name will be announced in next week’s edition of The University News.
Women’s Basketball Schedule SLU announced the women’s basketball schedule.The 29-game slate includes 13 teams that advanced to postseason play a year ago and 10 teams that won 20 or more games. “It’s competitive, regionally-driven and diverse, and it gives our St. Louisbased fans plenty of opportunities to see us play at home,” head coach Shimmy GrayMiller said. Nov. 4 UMSL Nov. 7 Rockhurst Nov. 12 Wisconsin Nov. 14 Morgan State Nov. 17 at Butler Nov. 19 at Arkansas Nov. 21 Murray State Nov. 24 at Indiana Nov. 28 at SIU- E Dec. 2 at SIU-C Dec. 4 at Bradley Dec. 12 Mo. State Dec. 17 Memphis Dec. 19 Florida Dec. 22 Evansville Dec. 30 at Ball State Jan. 2 at Tennessee Jan. 8 Saint Joseph’s* Jan. 12 Dayton* Jan. 15 at La Salle* Jan. 19 at U-Mass* Jan. 25 Fordham* Jan. 30 Charlotte* Feb. 2 at Temple* Feb. 5 George Wash.* Feb. 9 at Duquesne* Feb. 13 at R. Island* Feb. 16 Xavier* Feb. 19 at Charlotte* Feb. 23 St. Bonavent.* Feb. 26 at Richmond* *denotes A-10 Conference matchup
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The University News Talk to us: Chris Ackels 314.977.2812 sports.unews@gmail.com
Thursday, September 23, 2010
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Men’s soccer team enters new era New head coach looks to reinvigorate storied program By ANDREW BUSH Staff Writer
When the Saint Louis University men’s soccer team squares off against Drake this Saturday, Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in Robert R. Hermann Stadium, homecoming will have a different feel for the first time in a decade. The halftime fireworks will still be there—but the head coach will be different. This time last year, Dan Donigan was still the head coach of the SLU men’s soccer team. His team would eventually advance to the second round of the NCAA tournament before losing in overtime against Tulsa. Meanwhile, Mike McGinty was an associate head coach at the University of Virginia, who finished their season with a victory over Tulsa for the national championship. Now, as the Billikens (1-2-1) prepare for the homecoming game against Drake (3-4), Donigan is coaching at Rutgers University (3-1-1) and McGinty has taken over the reigns of the program that Donigan led to 118 victories. “When I did my homework, SLU was I place I felt I could come and build on the work [Donigan] had done, build on the work other coaches before him had done, and I felt that I could win a national championship here. I just came off a national championship and I want to win another one,” McGinty said. But why did McGinty decide to leave the program that had just been crowned national champions and come to SLU? “I was the associate head coach at Virginia—and here, obviously, I’m the head coach,” McGinty said. “So that was the difference for me—to go out and have complete reins of the program. “I had been at Virginia for 11 years. I learned a lot with the coaches that were there. I was fortunate with a lot of great players there, but there was nothing left for me to do there.
Photo Courtesy of Billiken Media Relations
The Billikens celebrate a goal during an exhibition game against Evansville. The entire freshman class attended the game, which doubled as a spirit contest between the dorms. “We won a national cham“I like the fact that the peopionship and an ACC cham- ple that support the program pionship, and if I was going and are interested in the proleave, that’s the way I wanted gram want us to be national to be remembered—and it champions. Those are the was perfect timing for me and kind of people I like having my family to come out here,” around me—alumni that want McGinty said. us to be national champions, For McGinty, coming an athletic director in Chris from the May that wants University us to be national of Virginia SLU was a place I champions. to SLU “If I felt that this has not felt I could come and was a rebuilding c h a n g e d build on the work 20-year, 10-year the expec- other coaches before project, we’re t a t i o n s me have done. happy with where regarding we are in life type the sucof job, I wouldn’t —Mike McGinty cess of the have taken it.” men’s soccer team. At each These lofty university, the fans and alum- goals motivate McGinty as ni expect to see their team well as his players. Freshman compete for a national cham- Christian Briggs says pionship. But McGinty does McGinty emphasizes the goal not consider those expecta- of the national championship tions problematic. to motivate the team. “I have pretty high expec“I think every time we go tations for myself, I have high expectations for my players,” See “McGinty” on Page 10 McGinty said.
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Ryan Giacomino / Photographer
Men’s soccer head coach Mike McGinty served at Virigina and Wake Forest before coming to Saint Louis University.
Women’s soccer nearing conference play Pair of freshmen waste no time making presence felt By MICHAEL JOHNSON Staff Writer
Jenny Hummert and Jessie Jarrett are only 10 games into their collegiate soccer careers, but head coach Tim Champion needs them to perform like seasoned veterans. Injuries to upperclassmen have forced the pair of freshmen to play contributing roles in games, even though they lack experience. Hummert and Jarrett are not intimidated by the tall task of playing as true freshmen. Their fearlessness and positive attitudes allow them to flourish in their roles on the field. Hummert, a St. Louis native, attended St. Joseph’s Academy. She started at midfielder for all four years of high school and led her team to a 20-1 record as a senior. Mostly, she has made a smooth transition to the college game. “I was a little nervous at first, but because the team was so welcoming and helpful, it made the adjustment a lot easier.” Hummert claims her vision of the field to be her strength, but knows there is plenty of room for improvement in her game. “I need to be more of a team player, improve my through balls and work on connecting passes with my teammates. If I can get better at all of those things, it will lead to more goals for my [team],” Hummert said. Hummert realizes the need to work well with teammates. Unlike high school, at Saint Louis University, she deals with girls from all over the map. Jarrett hails from Dayton, Ohio. She attended Bellbrook High School, where she played four years as a varsity
forward. In her senior campaign, she led the Bellbrook squad with 26 goals and dished out 11 assists. Jarrett hopes that her high school success carries over to college and has set high goals for her career at SLU. “I want to win an [Atlantic 10] championship in my four years,” Hummert said. “I will play my best and hopefully score some goals along the way.” Jarrett’s competitiveness and aggressiveness are evident, even in everyday life. “I enjoy taking people on,” Jarrett said. And Jarrett is not only excited about the high-profile games. In her short time at SLU, she has come to appreciate the chemistry the team has formed and the energy surrounding practices and games. “My teammates are really great, and we all get along and have a lot of fun,” she said. “I also like playing in college more than high school because the atmosphere at the games is much better.” Champion likes what he sees in the duo and feels the sky is the limit for Hummert and Jarrett. “Both of them have the potential to be impact players in the future,” Champion said. “They are both very technically gifted, smart and fast players. Now, it is just a matter of maturing and getting more comfortable.” Champion witnesses their hard work paying off. “You can see it. They are getting better and more comfortable every week.” With players like Hummert and Jarrett leading the youthful but talented team, it is a safe assumption to say the Billikens should be a dangerous team in the A-10 for the next four seasons.
Erin Twiehaus / Photographer
Head coach Tim Champion addresses his team after last weekend’s tie with Missouri State.
SLU ends homestand with two 0-0 draws By TYLER VACHIO Staff Writer
The Saint Louis University women’s soccer team hosted two games last weekend, both ending in scoreless draws. In their first game against Missouri State on Sept. 17, the Lady Bills registered a 17 to 3 shot advantage against the Bears, but were unable to put the ball in the net once. After two overtime periods, the game ended in a scoreless draw, putting the Billikens at 1-4-3 on the season. This was the third consecutive scoreless draw between the Billikens and the Bears (4-3-1). This was also the Billikens’ third tie of the season. “Even though we didn’t put one in, we put some good things together and played with confidence,” head coach Tim Champion said. Although the Bills never scored, Champion says it was their best offensive match all season. The 17 shots fired were the most on the year. Junior midfielder Colleen
Kustura had a career high four shots, senior midfielder Christina Brown fired three shots on goal and freshman midfielder Jenny Hummert also had three shots on Friday night. Two days later, the Billikens looked to change their luck against Loyola (Md.). The rainy weather in the St. Louis area made for a wet field at Robert R. Hermann Stadium for the Billikens and the Greyhounds. The wet field conditions did not stop the Lady Bills from breaking their previous shot record from Friday night. The team fired 19 shots against Loyola, upping their ante set two nights earlier. The defense also looked good against Loyola. The Greyhounds were held to one shot in the final 65 minutes of the game. “I’m certainly not unhappy with the way we’re playing,” Champion said. “We’re playing hard, the intensity level is up and we’re getting more and better scoring chances.”
But once again, after 110 minutes of soccer the Lady Bills were not able to put one in the net. It was another scoreless draw, leaving the Billikens at 1-4-4 on the season. Sophomore goalkeeper Katie Walsh recorded her fifth shutout of the season, as she denied all five shots on goal from the Greyhounds. Sophomore fullback Maggie Baumann had a career-high five shots during the game, and Hummert had three shots on goal. Hummert also had a chance late in the second overtime to put home a goal for the Billikens. The freshman midfielder had a breakaway with 30 seconds remaining on the clock. Hummert beat the goaltender to the right side, regained control of the ball and fired a shot to the lower right side of the goal. The ball was deflected by a Greyhound defender and kicked out of play. The women head to Iowa City this weekend to take on the Iowa Hawkeyes on Sunday, Sept. 26, at 1 p.m.
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
Bills soccer season off to slow start
America’s best sport to watch is...
With both the Saint Louis University men’s and women’s soccer teams nearly halfway done with their Commentary respective campaigns, b o t h squads are undoubtedly mildly d i s a p pointed with their Luke Bieber records. Coaches and players surely expected to see a higher number in the wins column. The men have shown immense potential and promise, working with a young squad and a new coaching staff. Last weekend’s Tulsa game provided a tremendous opportunity to earn national recognition, but the young team failed to play at the top of their game. “We just didn’t play well,” sophomore Alex Sweetin said. The loss to Tulsa, ranked No. 3 in the nation, dropped the Bills to 1-2-1 on the season. This weekend, the Billikens have a crucial match-up with the Drake Bulldogs. This match will likely be tough on the Billikens, with Drake coming into the game 4-0-0. As for the Lady Billikens, the girls dominated Loyola (Md.) last weekend, amassing more shots on goal, controlling possession, stringing great passing sequences together and taking 10 corner kicks. The Bills had an impressive 19 shots in the game, but were never able to catch the back of the net. The women’s team has a strong core of players, including freshmen Jenny Hummert and Jessie Jarrett, and sophomores Allison Hu, Katie Walsh and Maggie Baumann. With about 10 matches remaining for both squads, the teams are poised only to improve. Coaches from both teams say with confidence that the Billikens are playing well, though they are not getting the results they are looking for. Many parallels can be drawn between the two teams. Ultimately, SLU is a soccer school at heart and has the teams to prove it. Their records are just not showing it.
With October right around the corner, the MLB regular season will finally be wrapping up, Commentary the NFL will be in full swing and the college football season will begin conference play. But Adam Corrado the most exciting thing in sports won’t be the baseball playoffs, and certainly won’t be just another weekend of football games. The NHL is back. Don’t get me wrong, I love football, baseball and basketball; I played all three in high school and have never played an organized game of hockey in my life. But when it comes to watching a game, nothing can come close to hockey. The speed and energy on the ice cannot be matched from start to finish by any other sport. A recent Wall Street Journal study found that the average NFL game takes over three hours, but has only 11 minutes of game play. The rest of the time is taken up by huddles, replays, commercials, timeouts and all that other jazz. Hockey is all action, all the time. In this game, 60 minutes on the clock means 60 minutes of action. There is no downtime or standing around talking about the next play. Everything happens on the fly in hockey, and the excitement never stops for the full 60 minutes. Basketball is the only other sport that can make the same claim… but the NBA has become synonymous with boring since defense left the league. In the game of Lord Stanley, you get the best of both worlds. You get the physicality and agility of football, as well as the endurance and constant action of basketball. It’s got football’s bonecrushing hits and basketball’s breathtaking breakaways. And, oh, yeah: It’s on ice. So as baseball season winds down and football season drags on, America’s most exciting sport is right around the corner. And, hey, maybe sports fans in this town might actually have something to cheer for.
Ryan Giacomino/Photographer
Anne Kordes (center) and her staff look on during a Billiken match. The Bills play Dayton and Xavier this weekend.
Junior volleyball player leads the court, classroom and community By WILL WHITEHEAD Staff Writer
“Student-Athlete:” a phrase used by schools everywhere to say that they put academics before athletics. Recent news provides examples of some schools who take the term and the priorities seriously, while others avoid the combination altogether. By definition, student-athlete is a term that describes the direct balance of a full-time student and a full-time athlete, meaning that an athlete must be a student first. Saint Louis University junior Amelia Karges, a nutrition and dietetics major and a volleyball player from Joliet, Ill., fits the true definition perfectly.
During her sophomore year, Karges have to miss any school,” Karges said. went on a mission trip to Punta Gorda, “I had to miss one practice, but my Belize. Her mission was to build a library coaches were totally supportive of my at the school in San Marcos, a small vil- decision to go on the trip.” lage in Punta Gorda. Karges said that her Now how does a fullfamily, her teachers, time college student, a her teammates and her Going to Belize volleyball player with a coaches have been sup3.78 GPA, have time to on this mission trip portive from the beginwas honestly one of ning. do all of this? First, it is a mentality. the best decisions I “Going to Belize on “I wanted to do some- have ever made. this SLU mission trip thing to benefit others was honestly one of the who are less fortunate,” best decisions I have ever —Amelia Karges Karges said. “It also made,” Karges said. allowed me to experience a new cul“It was definitely life ture.” changing because I was able to gain Second, she had to find time. “It was a new perspective on my own life and over spring break, so luckily I did not appreciate things so much more.”
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McGinty: Team looks to rebound this weekend Continued from Page 9
to practice it’s always on our mind—we are definitely a very goal-oriented team,” Briggs said. “We think about a lot of things when we train, but it’s [the national championship] that everyone wants.” Briggs admits that one win out of four games to start the season was not what the team had in mind, but is confident that the team can improve. “It’s not going to be easy— but once we buy into his philosophy what he’s coaching we believe that the goals that we have set will be attained. Coming from a place like Virginia, he has a lot of experience—we need to buy into his philosophy and continue to work hard every day,” Briggs said.
McGinty also is blunt in acknowledging that he is not satisfied with the performances of his team so far. “If I was 4-0 I wouldn’t be satisfied, either,” McGinty said. “One thing as a coach, I don’t think you’re ever satisfied—you can always do something better. We talk about it every day, what could we have done better? If I was 4-0 or 0-4, it doesn’t matter—I still wouldn’t be satisfied.” As a head coach, McGinty will always find something for his young team to work on. When SLU takes the field against Drake this Saturday, the team may not entirely satisfy McGinty. But after an overtime loss last year, a homecoming victory would be more than satisfactory for Billiken fans.
Victor Liou / Photographer
ON THE WEB>> See our exclusive interview with head coach Mike McGinty on our website, unewsonline.com. Just click on “Multimedia.”
6-11 center commits to Billikens
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
A-10 battle at Chaifetz Arena
By DERRICK NEUNER Associate Sports Editor
The Saint Louis University men’s basketball team received a verbal commitment on Sept. 21, from 6’11” center John Manning of Chantilly High, Va. Manning is the first verbal commitment for the Billikens for the 2011 recruiting class. His commitment will become official on Nov. 10, the start of the early signing period. Manning was a fourthteam all-area selection in Washington, D.C., who made his final decision to come to SLU over Tulane. He also considered going to George Mason, William and Mary or Central Florida, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “There’s a lot to like [about SLU],” Manning said to the Post-Dispatch. “The coaching staff, the players, the facilities, the school itself. It was really tough to decide. Both schools had lot of great things about them, but in the end, the staff and [head coach Rick] Majerus’ history [with getting big men into the NBA] was really impressive.” ESPN.com’s National Recruiting Director Paul Biancardi said that Manning’s skill set will be perfect for Majerus’s system. “[SLU] was looking for a true center who could be a factor in the A-10, and in Manning they found that. “Manning has terrific hands, showing the ability to catch passes anywhere in the paint … He’s almost ambidextrous in the paint. He can shoot jumphooks with either hand, which makes him very difficult to guard.” Manning will provide more height, power and points at the forward position immediately for SLU. The Billikens season tips off on Nov. 12, at Chaifetz Arena against Austin Peay State.
Shah (Yuqing Xia) / Photographer
Senior Megan Boken and sophomore Andrea Beaty rise to block a spike from a Lipscomb middle hitter. The Billikens won two out of three this weekend.
Billikens face No. 19 Dayton, rival Xavier in weekend tilts By DERRICK NEUNER Associate Sports Editor
Saint Louis University and the University of Dayton may be 333 miles apart, but when it comes to Atlantic 10 Conference volleyball, their rivalry becomes an epicenter of excitement. Consider this: the last time the Billikens lost to a conference team other than Dayton was in 2007. The Flyers defeated SLU in the 2009 A-10 Championship and shared the regular season crown with the Bills. The story was a bit different in 2008: SLU won the regular season title after beating Dayton. This year, Dayton and SLU are 1-2 in pre-season picks in the A-10 Conference. In short, there may be no better rivalry in the A-10. Like Jekyll and Hyde, you can’t have one without the other. “The rivalries and competitiveness in the league are at an all-time high,” Billikens head coach Anne Kordes said. “We have a larger target on our
backs this year. We are going “We absolutely still expect to have to work extremely it to be [a battle] this year hard to defend that ranking, again, as they have some realand we know that because ly good players returning and the A-10 programs have done their freshman class is ridicunothing but get better.” lous,” UD head coach Kelly No. 19 Dayton (9-3) rolls Sheffield said. “The coach into St. Louis this weekend, over there does a great job, kicking off A-10 play, to take and what I’m really excited on the freshly-stocked 5-7 about is playing them twice Billikens. SLU graduated five this year … Both of these seniors in the spring and fea- two schools need to play each tures new playother twice a ers at every year.” position. Dayton will It’s a big deal The game have a lot on begins at 7 p.m. playing Dayton. We the line Friday Friday, Sept. are going to show at Chaifetz. 24 at Chaifetz them they aren’t The team Arena. A pep is currently rally for stu- better than us. on a threedents will game win—Andrea Beaty be held on ning streak the concourse of the arena, and is nationbeginning at 5:30 p.m. Free ally ranked. SLU, on the other food will be served, and fans hand, looks to regain some will receive a Billiken Blue- footing after a sub-.500 start. Out T-shirt. Kordes calls conference play While neither team is guar- “a new beginning” for her anteed a win, the one guaran- young team. tee is that the rivalry will be Part of that young team, taken to a whole new level. freshman middle blocker
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Andrea Beaty, has been a force at the net for the Billikens; she’s blocked a team-high 31 kills so far this season. She also understands what the Dayton vs. SLU duel means. “If we beat them, it means a lot more than if they beat us,” Beaty said. “I love playing the games where people think the other team is better than you, because that’s the chance to show people, ‘no, we are good.’ “I can see it on [my teammates’] faces. It’s a big deal [playing Dayton]. We’re going to show them that they aren’t better than us.” As if the intensity surrounding the match couldn’t get any higher, junior Alyssa Deno calls the Friday night match a turning point in the season for the young Bills. Deno explained that, while the team may not have a winning record, it is a winning team. “This would be a huge win, not just because it’s our rival, and it’s our first A-10 game,
but they ranked, and to beat a ranked team would be huge,” Deno said. “It would set the tempo for conference play.” It would also go a long way toward rebuilding one of the biggest success stories in SLU history. “This is a year for us to grow as a team and fix our little mistakes,” Deno said. “This is a huge year for [Kordes]. She’s used to having a team that wins all the time, and she’s had to be a teaching coach more than she has in the past. So we are all growing together.” Playing Dayton will be tough for the Billikens, but the team will have to rebound quickly; the Xavier Muskateers come calling on Sunday, Sept. 26. Beaty says the team will be ready. “Not one team has come in and beat us without passion ... we’ve been playing our butts off,” Beaty said. “We have the chance to play great and do great things this weekend.”
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Midtown What students say: “Being so close to the Art District of St. Louis provides great opportunities for SLU students to see various shows and get off campus a bit.” – Junior Kate Lucas “There aren’t too many places that offer such a variety of life and culture; from the movie theater and bowling at the Moolah to the amazing shows at The Fox, I never run out of things to do in the Midtown area.” –Sophomore Jack Brentin
Distance from campus: 0.8 Miles What to check out: -The Fox Theatre -Powell Symphony Hall -Pappy’s Smokehouse -Museum of ContemporaryArt
What to watch for: -Fox Theatre: Celtic Thunder in October, “South Pacific” in November and “A Christmas Carol” in December -Chaifetz Arena: Vampire Weekend in October and Carrie Underwood in December - Museum of Contemporary Art: exhibitions including Miriam Böhm & Agency, John Smith, and Laura Riboli & Simon Denny known for
-The Art District
You can find out more about Midtown by visiting midtownalley.com or grandcenter.org
The University News
St. Louis Guide
New business brings revitalization By KRISTIN McGUIRE Staff Writer
and By JONATHAN ERNST Editor-in-Chief
Midtown: the great Arts District of St. Louis. And what’s even better? We’re already here! Midtown, one of the 27 neighborhoods of St. Louis, lies between Olive and Delmar. It’s taken more than a century for the Midtown that Saint Louis University students know to develop into the bustling center it is today, home to The Fabulous Fox Theatre, Saint Louis University Museum of Art and the Chaifetz Arena. Midtown centers around The Fox and stretches east to Midtown Alley. In 1876, when the city’s boundaries were set past the Forest Park area, Midtown essentially consisted of country fields. SLU’s move from downtown to Midtown came in 1888 with the completion of DuBourg Hall. At this time, all University operations were held in DuBourg. Enrollment totaled about 400. According to the website for the History of St. Louis Neighborhoods, the early 1900s saw a boom in the commercial sector with some business and theatre openings. Various theatres such as The Odeon Theatre, The Empress and Victoria opened in this decade. In 1913, Grand Central opened on Grand and Lucas; it was the first theatre in St. Louis built exclusively for motion pictures. The Fox Theatre opened on Jan. 31, 1929 with 6,000 seats. At the time, it was the secondlargest theatre in the world. The Fox brought success to the area; the estimated cost of the theatre was $5,000,000, and it was the peak of luxury during its time. Despite The Great Depression and World War II, the area was in its prime during the 1930s. In 1946, SLU purchased the Samuel Cupples House. This historical manor was purchased by the University for $50,000 and was used as office space until 1970. In 1959, the campus expanded with the construction of Pius XII Memorial Library. SLU’s former president Rev. Paul Reinert resisted moving the campus westward, and in doing so, he
Mark Campos / Photographer
The Fabulous Fox Theatre is just one of the many artistic attractions that can be enjoyed in the Midtown neighborhood. The Fox opened in 1929 and cost an estimated $5,000,000. may have saved the Midtown area. A declining and outwardlyexpanding population and tax base in the 1960s halted the city’s theatre and entertainment district, causing a near disappearance of the Midtown neighborhood. An area that once boasted eight theatres, dozens of businesses and a regional transportation hub was declining rapidly. Instead of moving, the campus expanded east of Grand Boulevard in 1962, where the Busch Student Center and several classroom buildings now stand. Despite the University’s expansion, the 1970s brought a decline in prosperity when The Fox closed its doors in 1978, due to a decline in attendance. The reopening of The Fox and the Sheldon Concert Hall in the 1980s rejuvenated the area with the return of crowds and entertainment venues. Now, 50 years later, this same area now known as Grand Center, has propelled into a thriving arts and entertainment district, marked with renovation, reconstruction and new life.
Restaurants Pappy’s Smokehouse is argu-
ably the best place to get some BBQ in St. Louis. With entrees under $10, it makes for a good, hearty meal for college students. If you’re just looking to grab a burger, The U is another cheap eating option. But if you’re interested in a bit more upscale of an evening-perhaps you’re taking out a nice girl?- try either Triumph Grill on Olive Street or Vito’s on Lindell Boulevard. If you’re just looking for a cool place to study and grab a coffee, Café Ventana is a cute French Quarter Bistro that’s right on campus.
Entertainment With The Fox Theatre, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Sheldon Concert Hall, there is never a dull moment in Midtown. You can check out smaller concerts in the intimate setting of the Sheldon Concert Hall, snap it out to music at Jazz at the Bistro or be astounded by the huge shows performed at The Fox. Additionally, the Moolah (originally designed to be a temple), holds apartments, a bowling alley and a movie theatre. And you can’t forget the Chaifetz
Arena, right on our campus. In addition to holding our basketball games, Chaifetz also hosts a ton of big-name bands and performers.
Attractions The Contemporar y Art Museum St. Louis and the Museum of Contemporar y Religious Art are two unique attractions in Midtown. The Museum of Contemporary Religious Art is known for its promotion of tolerance between religions. The Contemporar y Art Museum, located on Washington Blvd., has been displaying avantgarde artwork since 1980. Dating back to 1842, St. Francis Xavier College Church is another place to visit in Midtown. Aesthetically speaking, the building alone is enough reason to visit. For something a bit different, you can explore EarthWays Center, located in Grand Center. This center’s mission is to educate the general public about sustainability and recycling efforts. EarthWays Center is a threestory Victorian residence built in 1885 that is now used to demonstrate practical demonstrations of energy-efficient systems.
South Grand What students say: “South Grand is a very diverse area that welcomes people of all creeds, colors and sexual orientations.” -Senior Kathryn McCulley “South Grand is awesome because it is an area of town where you can try as much authentic ethnic food as you want. There are also really unique supermarkets and coffee shops!” -Senior Emily Frankoski
Distance from campus: 3.2 Miles What to check out: - Mangia Italiano music on Friday nights - Merb’s Candy - Pho Grand -International grocery stores
What to watch for: -The holiday house walk in November known for:
-Ethnically diverse dining
Neighborhood augments international flavor By KRISTIN McGUIRE Staff Writer
South Grand is often called the “International Community” of St. Louis. An ethnically diverse neighborhood, South Grand is not only close, but also safe and affordable. With an eclectic variety of boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops, you will not be disappointed with the great people-watching opportunities. The neighborhood consists of turn-of-the-century architecture and the historic brownstone houses that are home to residents of diverse nationalities, races, ages and sexual orientations. This charming, authentic neighborhood lies between Arsenal and Utah, along South Grand.
Restaurants It is recommended you try something new in South Grand. With such diverse options for dining, why choose something ordinary? Pho Grand is a vegetarian-friendly Vietnamese restaurant with entrees between $10-15. If you are looking for something a little cheaper, you could visit Chimichanga Mexican and try their classic Chile Verde. Although not terribly adventurous, dining at the City Diner is a must for Saint Louis University students. This typical ’50s themed diner has surprisingly good burgers, and they serve breakfast at any time. But if exotic is your style, feast on Middle Eastern food at Al Waha Restaurant and Hookah Lounge or on Thai food at the King & I.
Entertainment
You can find out more about South Grand by visiting southgrand.org.
St. Louis Guide
3
The University News
The Upstairs is a great place to go to dance and hear some local DJs spin every night of the week. The Upstairs is located on the corner of Grand Boulevard and Hartford Street. But the best way to find music in South Grand is at restaurants that host live music and entertainment. If you enjoy jazz, it is essential that you check out the Dave Stone Trio at Mangia Italiano. They perform at the Italian bistro every Friday night at 10. At Café Natasha, you can sample some shish-ka-bob and watch belly dancers perform
at night. And if you so choose, feel free to enroll in some dance classes at Floored on Grand. They offer a variety of courses, from swing dance to Flamenco.
Attractions There is no way you can live in St. Louis without trying Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. There are two locations in South Grand alone, and they make for great hang-out spots. Merb’s Candies, another way to satisfy your sweet tooth, has been hand-making chocolates since opening in the 1920s. In terms of quaint shops, Earth, Wind and Bead (which sells Native American jewelry and art) and Dunaway Books (which sells used and out-ofprint books) have some out-ofthe-ordinary merchandise. Some annual events hosted in South Grand are a holiday walk in November, a Chinese New Year celebration in February, a house tour in April, the South Grand Bike Tour in May and the Festival of Nations in June.
Mark Campos / Photographer
Vegetarian-friendly Pho Grand is just one of the ethnically diverse restaurants that the South Grand neighborhood has to offer.
Tower Grove What students say: “It’s a place to experience open grass, which might not be easy to find in a city.” –Junior Bilal Mahmood
“It’s pretty cool. It’s a safe neighborhood. The gardens were pretty.” –Freshman Monique Johnson
Distance from campus: 2.9 Miles
What to check out: -Tower Grove Park -The Water Tower -City Diner -MoKaBe’s -Hartford Coffee Company -Gelateria Del Leone
What to watch for: -Open Mic Night Fridays at Hartford Coffee Company -Tower Grove Farmer’s Market, Saturdays through Oct. 23 at Tower Grove Park -Water Tower tour, Oct. 2 at the Reservoir Park Water Tower
St. Louis Guide
The Grove provides breathtaking views By JULIA CHRISTENSEN Contributor
Located south of Saint Louis University, the Tower Grove neighborhood offers a pleasant escape from city life. It is comprised of residential divisions, like Compton Heights and Shaw; shopping and eatery; and two large parks, Tower Grove and Compton Hill Reservoir Park. The area begins blocks away from SLU and is centered around Grand Boulevard. Tower Grove Park came to be in 1868, and was created by Henry Shaw. The Water Tower was originally built as a standpipe. The area was growing and the delivery system of water needed assistance. To make it more aesthetically pleasing, a tower was built around the pipe in 1898, complete with an observation deck at the top. It was adored by visitors of the 1904 World’s Fair because of its impressive views. In 1929 the standpipe was retired, due to advances in water delivery to the surrounding areas. The Tower was kept open until 1984, when serious safety problems were discovered. It was due to be demolished in 1995. Luckily, residents of the area thought it was too good to lose. The Tower was reopened in 1999 after massive renovations.
Restaurants MoKaBe’s Cof feehouse, located on Arsenal, features a large menu with several vegan options. Meals like the “Who Needs Meat?” sandwich and the “Lou Melt” four-pound cheeseburger make their lunches and dinners more than your average café meal. However, nothing tops the Sunday brunch, which features everything from a broccoli Swiss quiche to French toast to meatfree sausage patties. The brunch is an all-you-caneat buffet with both traditional and vegan-friendly items, and is available until 1 p.m. It is so popular with guests that employees constantly appear to be adding more food. Along with these hot items, fresh fruits, muffins and juices are also served. The atmosphere inside MoKaBe’s is almost as impressive as the food. The restaurant has two levels of seating, with handmade pieces of work adorning its walls. Hours of operation aim at both the early birds and the night owls, opening at 9 a.m. and closing at midnight. Since it is a quick MetroBus ride away, it could easily be a great contender for off-campus food.
Entertainment Although admiring the parks and Water Tower are quite entertaining, they are not the only activities in the area.
known for:
-The Water Tower -The pavillions and ponds -The Farmer’s Market Mark Campos / Photographer
You can find out more about Tower Grove by visiting towergrovepark.org
The University News
In addition to providing aesthetically pleasing landscapes, Tower Grove Park also has a number of paths that can be enjoyed by bicyclists and pedestrians.
Noah Berman / Photo Editor Mark Campos / Photographer
Tower Grove Park offers a break form the hustle and bustle of city life with its grassy areas, ponds and cultural-themed pavillions. The enjoyment continues at the Hartford Coffee Company, on the corner of Hartford and Roger, with Open Mic Night. Hartford offers affordable coffee drinks and unique meal options, including the spicy jalapeñobacon Grand B.L.T. and Tower Grove Club. Finding Hartford Coffee Company can be a little difficult, as its impressive garden blocks the view from the street. There is a small outdoor nook with tables and chairs surrounded by a jungle of shrubbery, flowers and grasses. Inside, there is a retro playarea for children and an eating counter (perfect for laptops) amidst the pastry display case, booths and cash register. Open Mic Night takes place every Friday, from 7:30 to 9:30.
Attractions Visiting the Tower Grove area simply would not be complete without seeing the Water Tower
or Tower Grove Park. The Water Tower, which is open for tours from April through November on the first Saturday each month, is surrounded by a lush, grassy area, a large sculpture and a pond complete with a fountain. The tours cost $5 per person. The walk up the stairs may be slightly grueling, but it is broken up by landings and historic pictures. At the top, the views are so breathtaking, it validates the exercise. Down South Grand is the spectacular Tower Grove Park, featuring themed pavilions and carriage houses, along with gardens and trails. The pavilions feature varying architectural themes, including Turkish, Chinese and Classical Revival. The park also includes four full-length statues, six marble composer busts and several ponds, complete with water lilies.
Soulard What students say: “I love the Soulard area. They have some of the best restaurants in the city!” -Freshman Jared Castillo “I’m excited to go to Mardi Gras this year. I’m from Louisiana, so it will be interesting to see how it measures up to New Orleans’ celebrations.” -Freshman Felice Lavergne Distance from campus: 4 Miles
What to check out: -Historic Soulard Market -Anheuser-Busch Brewery
What to watch for: -Oktoberfest: Oct. 8-10, $5 general admission -The 9th annual Twilight Hayride Pub Crawl: Oct. 22, $10 admission known for:
-Farmer’s Market -Mardi Gras Celebration -The restaurants
You can find out more about Soulard by visiting soulard.org.
The University News
St. Louis Guide Historically rich neighborhood known for celebrations By SHELBY ROZIER Contributor
Soulard, a small community just south of St. Louis City, is a historic French neighborhood named after Antoine Soulard. Soulard was given the land by the Spanish government in the 1790s as payment for his services as surveyor general of Upper Louisiana. Following Soulard’s death in 1825, a legal battle began between Soulard’s widow, Julia Cerre Soulard, and the City of St. Louis over the rightful ownership of the land. In 1836, she acquired the deed for the area. In her will she donated two blocks for a farmer’s market, which is known today as Soulard Market. In 1841, after her death, Soulard was annexed to the City of St. Louis. Around 1850, Soulard became a ‘melting pot’ of sorts, due to the influx of German, Irish, Bohemians, Lebanese and many other types of immigrants that flocked to America. Today, Soulard is best known for its festive nature, with several well-attended celebrations throughout the year. It is also known for its famous landmarks, such as the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Soulard Market. Soulard is one of the oldest communities in St. Louis, with many of its original Americanized-European buildings still standing.
Restaurants Soulard is home to around 50 popular restaurants and bars. Some of the most notable restaurants in the area include the Market Grill, Llywelyn’s Pub, John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, Sage, and Molly’s. The fairly new Market Grill is a nice place to visit and it is located on the corner of Lafayette and Eighth Street.
Vinnie Schneider / Photographer
Vinnie Schneider / Photographer
Andrea Royals / News Editor
Soulard is a historic French neighborhood located just south of St. Louis City. It is named after Antione Soulard, who was given the land by the Spanish government in the 1790s. The area is known for its farmer’s market (right and lower left). It is also known for its celebrations, such as Mardi Gras, which is the nation’s second largest.
Entertainment Every night of the week, including Saturday and Sunday afternoons, the 1860 Saloon located on 9th Street, provides live Blues music brought to you by bands that include Soul Reunion, The Blue Tones and Tony Campanella, along with local acts. Many other neighborhood restaurants such as The Old Rock House, John D. McGurk’s Irish Pub & Restaurant and the Broadway Oyster Bar supply live music by local acts on the weekends.
Soulard Preservation Hall serves as a concert venue, meeting place and reception hall. It also has available an auditorium for theatrical productions, put on by community theaters.
Attractions Soulard contains some of the most interesting places in St. Louis. You can stop by the Historic Soulard Market, an outdoor farmer’s market open year round, Wednesday through Sunday. Take a tour of the famous Anheuser-Busch Brewery,
where you can visit the famed Clydesdale Paddock and Stables, the Beechwood Aging Lager Cellars, the historic Brewhouse and the Bevo Packaging Plant. For visitors over 21, the brewery provides a Hospitality Room, where you receive two free samples of Anheuser-Busch products. Soft drinks and pretzels are also available. Every year, Soulard hosts the nation’s second largest Mardi Gras celebration. Other popular events include Oktoberfest, Bastille Day and The Barkus Pet Parade.
Central West End
St. Louis Guide
The University News
Central West End: Corners of the world meet By ASHLEY SELAS
Distance from campus: 1.4 Miles What to check out: -Cathedral Bascilica -The Cupcakery -The Drunken Fish -Chase Park Plaza Cinema -Third Degree Glass Factory -Vino Gallery known for:
-Neighborhood organizations -Beautiful residential living -Restaurants
Contributor
The Central West End is a place where all of the corners of the world meet- right here in St. Louis. This area of St. Louis reached full development in the late 1800s, with the architecture frenzy of the 1904 World’s Fair ultimately leading to an array of classic buildings to set the precedent for this beautiful private area. The Central West End takes great pride in neighborhood organizations that create a united spirit among residents and visitors. Geographically, the Central West End lies in the center of St. Louis to the west of the Midtown area, directly across from Forest Park. Cathedral Square is an important neighborhood that is defined by its cul-de-sacs and beautiful residential living. It is known as the special business district, where the historic Fullerton’s Westminster Place- as well as the landmark Catholic church, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis- is located. The Cathedral is acclaimed for standing as a testament to both Byzantine and Romanesque style structure, as well as housing the world’s largest collection of mosaic art. The charm of the area is infectious, as cafes line the street, art galleries appeal to the imagination and upbeat boutiques and relaxing pubs provide a wide variety of ways to enjoy the true St. Louis spirit of life.
Restaurants
You can find out more about The Central West End by visiting thecwe.org
The Central West End is entirely famous for the dining along the streets and trendy flavors that will entertain all selective palates. A unique event that is very popular is a “mirthday,” in which a restaurant is selected monthly to have a happy hour in which the community gathers to enjoy company and great new tastes. Special restaurants in this diverse area of St. Louis range from sweet and savory Bissinger’s Chocolate Lounge, to the Drunken Fish sushi restaurant, to the Cupcakerywhich stands as Missouri’s first gourmet cupcake shop and is sure to win over your sweet
Mark Campos / Photographer
The Central West End is famous for its eclectic variety of dining options. It is also known for attractions such as the Cathedral Bascilica of St. Louis (above), which was built in 1999. tooth.
Entertainment
This area of St. Louis is known for hosting a variety of events to maintain its eclectic standards. A well-known annual event that is held in June is the Central West End Association’s Art Fair and Taste, which features a diverse array of over 60 regional artists, as well as a popular film festival. In regard to daily enjoyment, many restaurants in the Central West End offer live music, including the Drunken Fish sushi bar and the West End Grill and Pub. The Chase Park Plaza Cinema is a great place to catch the latest movies; this popular movie venue that is a historic building with a lot of character and entertainment value.
Attractions Aside from the tantalizing food, stylish music and beautiful homes that comprise the Central West End, there are even more events and galleries to explore in this neighborhood. An outstanding life-sized bronze sculpture of Pope John Paul II is located outside of the
Mark Campos / Photographer
Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, and this was erected in honor of Pope John Paul II’s visit to St. Louis in 1999. The Chase Park Plaza is being newly renovated with hotel accommodations, as well as private residences.
A unique place to check out in the Central West End is the Third Degree Glass Factory, which features beautiful displays of blown glass, and for those who like to get creative with their wine, the Vino Gallery is a must see in this neighborhood.
The Hill What students say: “[Modesto] serves amazing Spanish appetizers. You can keep ordering tapas throughout your dinner, and they are quick about giving you your food. The calamari is my favorite!” -Freshman Isabella Grigsby
Distance from campus: 3.5 Miles
What to check out: -Great Italian food -Elizabeth Avenue -St. Ambrose
What to watch for: -Columbus Day Festival -Christmas on the Hill known for:
Restaurants
St. Louis Guide
The University News
Little Italy offers a great taste of St. Louis By STEPHANIE MUELLER Contributor
The Hill, one of St. Louis’ most iconic neighborhoods, is most known for its deep heritage, notable location and phenomenal food. Bound by Kingshighway, Hampton and Fyler Avenue, The Hill is a mile and a half trip from the Central West End MetroLink station and can be reached by walking or by a transfer bus ride. The highest point in the city lies within the appropriately named Hill at the intersection of Arsenal and Sublette. Granted to Charles Gratiot in 1798 by the Spanish government, The Hill was soon bought by the familiar names of Peter Lindell, Henry Shaw and Frances Sublette, as well as David Graham, J.F. Cooper and J.W. Hall. Italian immigrants working in the clay industry, which blossomed in the area after clay deposits were found in the 1830s, were especially prevalent in the 1890s, and, today, the Italian culture continues to define The Hill. The close-knit community that has stemmed from these ancestral roots is merely another aspect of The Hill that makes it so interesting. Somewhat of a 24-hour neighborhood, there is always some sight to see or some event to attend in the area.
seasonal entertainment opportunities. The Hill is also privileged to be the home of the “Giro della Montagna” Labor Day professional bicycle race, and the community celebrates Columbus Day with a myriad of activities, including a neighborhood-wide parade. A neighborhood procession on the Feast of Corpus Christi and an annual Soap Box Derby are other exclusive Hill customs. Besides these annual events, learning to play a game of Bocce at the Italia-Americana Bocce Club, exploring an age-old Italian past time, is popular year round.
Attractions The culture of The Hill itself is likely the greatest attraction in the neighborhood that a visitor could explore. From the red, white and green fire hydrants to Elizabeth Avenue, where baseball greats Yogi Berra, Jack Buck and Joe Garagiola lived, The Hill offers a variety of sights. St. Ambrose Church is another important stop, as it has acted as one of the strongholds of The Hill since the neighborhood’s rise. St. Ambrose is not only known for its beauty and history, but it still hosts the Winter Opera St. Louis, St. Joseph Day Celebration and multiple flea markets throughout the year.
Ryan Giacomino / Photographer
Above: SLU senior Mike Callahan competes in the 2009 Giro della Montagna. Below: In addition to its food, the Hill also boasts hosting part of each year’s Gateway Cup bike races. The Giro della Montagna, the third of four races, is held each September and is the oldest bike race in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area.
Restaurants
You can find out more about The Hill by visiting hill2000 explorestlouis.com, thehillstl.com
Some claim that the best Italian food outside of Italy itself can be found on The Hill. Favazza’s, Joey B.’s, Giola’s, Lorenzo’s and Cunetto’s House of Pasta are renowned for their classic Italian dishes and patron favorites. If looking for some diversity, Anthonino’s Taverna and Modesto provide excellent Greek and Spanish options, respectively. Besides the restaurants, The Hill offers specialty food shops like Di Gregorio’s Market and international market J. Viviano and Son, Inc. If the lines at Ted Drewes are too long, Gelato di Riso may be a worthy alternative, providing classic Italian treats.
Entertainment The
Hill
boasts
several
Ryan Giacomino / Photographer
Delmar Loop What students say: “It’s a good place to hang out. It’s more of the hipster scene than any other place. I’d recommend it to the younger crowd. It has a lot of good venues.” –Sophomore Samantha Donovan
Distance from campus: 5 Miles What to check out: -The Pageant -Blueberry Hill -Fitz’s - Avalon Exchange -Vintage Vinyl -Star Clipper -Phoenix Rising -Timeless Authentic Garments -Cicero’s
What to watch for: -The Avett Brothers, Sept. 24 at The Pageant -Reel Big Fish and The Aquabats, Oct. 14 at The Pageant -Chuck Berry, Oct. 20 at Blueberry Hill.
known for:
Concert Venues
You can find out more about The Delmar Loop by visiting VisitTheLoop.com and FitzsRootbeer.com.
St. Louis Guide
The University News
Loop hosts plethora of musical acts By JULIA CHRISTENSEN Contributor
The Loop, located in University City, is one of St. Louis’s alternative havens. Stretching 10 blocks down Delmar, The Loop is home to St. Louis landmarks such as Blueberry Hill and The Pageant, and is located a quick MetroLink trip away from campus. The Loop, named after the trolleys that used to literally “loop” the area, began to grow with shops and restaurants in the 1970s. At the time, legislation was pushing small businesses in the area, which caused the sudden growth. The Loop was named “One of the 10 Great Streets in America” by The American Planning Association. There is currently a push to reinstate trolleys in this historic area. A miniature of the neighborhood, that features model tracks in place, sits on display in a window on a street near Blueberry Hill.
Restaurants Blueberry Hill is undoubtedly the most well-known restaurant in The Loop. Its pop culturethemed décor, abundant beer selection and frequent musical guests make it one of a kind. However, it’s not the only great place to eat. Since 1947, Fitz’s Root Beer has been quenching St. Louis’ thirst at drive-ins in Richmond Heights and, as of 1993, right across the street from Blueberry Hill at the corner of Delmar and Leland. The menu offers a variety of items, from the expected hamburger and sandwich selection, to fish tacos and tilapia. Nine Fitz’s pop options are available, including Fitz’s classic root beer and its fruity cousin, Orange Pop. While eating, guests can watch the soda being bottled in the old-fashioned bottling area that sits behind a viewing window in the main dining room.
Entertainment Big-name bands frequently rock Delmar’s well-known Pageant stage. Pin-Up Bowl, a 1950s-themed bowling alley is decorated with illustrations of classic female pin-up girls, a truly unique bowling experi-
Andrea Royals / News Editor
The Loop offers a number of restaurants, such as Blueberry Hill and Delmar Restaurant and Lounge. It also has many venues for music lovers to enjoy, such as The Pageant and Cicero’s.
Andrea Royals / News Editor
ence. It has a large bar and a small number of lanes, making it either a social place to gather or an intimate alley to perfect your strike. The Tivoli Theater is the perfect place for that ‘dinner and a movie’ date. The marquee lists films of every style: cult classics, independent movies and foreign films are all welcome. Unique stores line the streets, such as Phoenix Rising, which houses an eclectic collection of gifts and jewelry, and Vintage Vinyl, a music store with a staggering selection of records and
CDs. Vintage and second-hand stores, like Avalon Exchange (previously known as Rag-ORama) and Timeless Authentic Garments, offer unique merchandise; shopping on Delmar is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Attractions The sidewalks on The Loop are dotted with stars that mirror Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. The St. Louis Walk of Fame features 125 stars, each dedicated to the celebrities that hail from the Gateway City. Recognizable
Andrea Royals / News Editor
names include John Goodman, Tennessee Williams, Joseph Pulitzer, Yogi Berra and Ulysses S. Grant. The Plant Walk, another customized sidewalk attribute in The Loop, informs pedestrians when they have reached each planet on a to-scale Solar System. Local shop Star Clipper creates quite the buzz with its large collection of comic books and graphic novels. The store also features imported snacks, collectible figurines and blind-box models and grown-up quarter machine toys.
Laclede’s Landing
The University News
Landing gives a glimpse of St. Louis history
What students say: “I really enjoyed going up into the Arch. It was neat to see the city from that perspective.” -Freshman Christina Gabany
“The area around the Arch is usually pretty fun. There are concerts there and different sorts of festivals and such. Also, there is always a really good fireworks display on the Fourth of July.” -Freshman Patrick Jennewein
St. Louis Guide
Distance from campus: 3.5 Miles
What to check out: -Edward Jones Dome -Busch Stadium -The Gateway Arch
What to watch for: - Rocktoberfest known for:
-Horse-drawn carriages -Live music -Rides up into the Arch
You can find out more about Laclede’s Landing by visiting lacledeslanding. com.
By KATHRYN PALMER Contributor
In 1763, Pierre Laclede, along with his 14-year-old lieutenant Auguste Chouteau and a crew of 30, set out from New Orleans to explore the Illinois Country and establish a fur-trading post. The next year, Laclede selected a site below the union of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, along the bluffs that formed the west bank of the Mississippi River. In 1784, the location was cleared and temporary cabins were built. Laclede named the settlement St. Louis in honor of the patron saint of the king of France. Soon, the village became the center of commerce with furs as the main source of exchange for goods. Today, Laclede’s Landing, a nine-block industrial area that once housed companies producing coffee, leather goods, mattresses, tobacco, whiskey, candy and machinery for the barges, features some of the most distinctive restaurants and sidewalk cafes in St. Louis. Visitors to Laclede’s Landing can experience the charm of cobblestone streets and centuryold brick and cast iron façade buildings as they browse through specialty gift shops. The Landing is within walking distance from Busch Stadium, the Edward Jones Dome and The Gateway Arch. Andrea Royals / News Editor
Restaurants As the name implies, The Drunken Fish is a great place for cocktails and sushi. This Japanese eatery boasts arguably the best sushi in St. Louis, along with great music and a trendy atmosphere. For more of a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, try the Old Spaghetti Factory. This friendly restaurant features a homey atmosphere and delicious pasta dishes. For burgers, pizza, sandwiches and soups, try Joey B’s. This restaurant is known as a great sports bar for after a Cardinals game. Stop in Hannegan’s Restaurant and Pub for an interesting atmosphere and great food. The interior of Hannegan’s is modeled after the Senate dining room, with each booth having
The Gateway Arch was completed in 1965 and has since become the fourth-most visited tourist attraction in the world. Laclede’s Landing also offers attractions such as Busch Stadium. a plaque dedicated to a Senator who voted to repeal Prohibition. The Royal Dumpe is the nation’s longest-running dinner theatre. Here, transport to Medieval times with pageantry and costumes.
Entertainment At night, horse-drawn carriages and live music add to the atmosphere. Ride a replica of a 19th century steamboat on a Gateway Riverboat Cruise. The steamboats depart frequently during the day from the levee below the Arch. Additionally, there are specialty dinner cruises that offer stunning views of the city.
Choices include live music with explosive percussion on the St. Louis Fireworks Cruise, a vibrant band on the Blues Cruise and even a Lock-N-Dam Cruise for those curious to investigate how Missouri manipulates its river. Or stay on shore and pedal along the river on the Riverfront Trail bike path, which passes through The Landing’s streets.
Attractions A visit to St. Louis would not be complete without visiting the Arch. Since 1965, when construction workers placed the final piece of steel at the apex of the Arch,
over 25 million sightseers have journeyed to its top. The Arch towers as the 630-foot tall gatekeeper to the Midwest, the tallest monument in the United States and the fourth-most visited tourist attraction in the world. Also, be sure to visit the Old Courthouse, which housed many pivotal Civil Rights cases especially during the Civil War. Here, African American slave Dred Scott fought for his legal right to freedom; the first trials in his case occurred in 1847 and 1850. Also at the Old Courthouse, Virginia Minor challenged the 14th amendment, which excluded women from voting.
Forest Park What students say: “It’s not far away from the school, so I like to go there to run and to take advantage of nature.” -Senior Margot Thomas “Growing up in St. Louis... Forest Park became this big free playground for me.” -Freshman Luke Sapa Distance from campus: 3.5 Miles What to check out: -St. Louis Zoo -The Boathouse -Jewel Box -St. Louis Science Center
What to watch for: -Moonlight Paddleboat Picnics -St. Louis Wine Festival, Sept. 25 -SciFest 2010, Oct. 12-17
The University News
St. Louis Guide
Park demonstrates the nature of St. Louis By KATERINA CANYON Contributor
At 1,371 acres, Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. It contains sand volleyball courts, golf courses, tennis courts and an ice-skating rink. Path systems for bicycling, roller-blading and running serpentine throughout the park. There are several public sports fields so visitors can play softball, soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse, archery and cricket. The park holds several lakes, many of which allow fishing. Forest Park encompasses over 140 acres of wildlife including forests, prairies, and wetlands. John F. Kennedy Memorial Forest contains over 200 species of birds. It is also home to coyotes, turkeys and other wildlife. Forest Park officially opened to an estimated crowd of 50,000 people on June 24, 1876 and hosted the World’s Fair in 1904. During the World’s Fair, Forest Park had over 100,000 visitors a day, for a total of over 19 million visitors the whole year. In 1927, more than 100,000 people gathered in the park to welcome Charles A. Lindbergh back to St. Louis after his nonstop flight from New York to Paris. In 1968, St. Louisians congregated in this park for a memorial service for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Andrea Royals / News Editor
Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Along with golf courses and tennis courts, it also has The St. Louis Zoo, The St. Louis Science Center and the St. Louis Art Museum.
Restaurants known for:
-Recreation, museums, zoo and fitness
To find out more about Forest Park, visit www. ForestParkForever.org.
For a pleasant meal in a romantic setting, the Boathouse provides a delicious meal on the patio overlooking the lake. The restaurant also offers boat rentals for a fun afternoon on the water or a romantic boat ride. If you’re looking for something quick, the Saint Louis Zoo has many options. The Painted Giraffe Café offers sandwich and salad options. For something sweet, the Ice Cream Oasis has a wide variety of ice cream treats. Want to go upscale? Try Bixby’s at the Missouri History Museum. This restaurant serves fine cuisine and has Champagne Sunday brunch with a buffet of quality meats and desserts.
Entertainment Forest Park offers some of the best free entertainment you
Andrea Royals / News Editor
can find in St. Louis. One of the many events that visitors enjoy is the Twilight Tuesdays concert series hosted on Missouri History Museum’s front lawn several times throughout the year. In September, Forest Park hosts the Great Balloon Race, Balloon Glow and the St. Louis Wine Festival. Both of these events feature live musical performances. In addition to the ice-skating rink, many visitors enjoy the
sledding available at Art Hill during the winter. Visitors to the zoo enjoy the Wild Lights holiday lights display that runs on selected nights in November and December.
Attractions Featuring works from several cultures throughout the world, St. Louis Art Museum is known as one of the nation’s finest art museums. Another museum worth a visit
Andrea Royals / News Editor
is Missouri History Museum which hosts continuing exhibits on St. Louis History. The St. Louis Science Center holds an OmniMax theater and a planetarium and has over 700 hands-on exhibits. St. Louis Zoo features well over 5,000 animals from 700 species. In celebration of its 100th anniversary this year, it is hosting a Zootennial that will be featuring several special exhibits.
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St. Louis provides an eclectic group of attractions
St. Louis offers a plethora of attractions. Fitz’s (above) located in The Loop, is a good place to get a burger and root beer, which is bottled on location. The ‘50s-themed City Diner (upper right), located on South Grand, provides the typical diner food. The Tivoli Theatre (bottom right) is also located in The Loop. This theatre hosts a variety of movies. The Gateway Arch (below) offers rides to the top, which provides a great view of downtown. Top left, bottom left and bottom right photos by Andrea Royals / News Editor. Top Right photo by Mark Campos / Photographer
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