USFENCOUNTER USF ENCOUNTER Presents September 21, 2020
Moving Forward
Editorial Board Student led, student written
UNIVERSITY
4 Editorial Columns 5 COVID-19 Updates
NEWS
6-7 Encounter News
ENTERTAINMENT 9 WCSF Top Ten
10-13 Fine Arts Feature 14 Video Game Evolution
FEATURE
18-19 Students & The Healthcare Workforce 20 Consumer Culture & COVID-19 21 What About the Pups?
COMMENTARY
22-23 The Arrogant American 24 Self-Care During a Time of Isolation
Janelle Suriaga Editor-in-Chief janellemariesuriaga@stfrancis.edu Mary Mathieu Assistant Editor marymathieu@stfrancis.edu Richie Mroz Layout Designer richardmroz@stfrancis.edu Lauren Wozniak Layout Designer laurenwozniak@stfrancis.edu Beatriz Sindac Photographer beatrizannesindac@stfrancis.edu Dr. Scott Marshall Advisor smarshall@stfrancis.edu
25 Covid Impacts Cross 26 Sports & COVID-19
Staff Writers Clarissa Del Rio Cosme Lozano Elizabeth Badalamenti Evelyn Odum Rodolfo PĂŠrez Sara Cahill
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September 21, 2020
Front cover photo courtesy of Beatriz Sindac Students pictured on front cover include Dalton Jenner (left) & Mia Jones (right).
Letter From the Editor Thank you for picking up the September edition of The USF Encounter: “Moving Forward”. Starting the school year normally comes with changes but it seems like for this year, the changes are even more profound. Adjusting to a new way of living within the past couple of months was a pretty jarring process. And to top it all off, we’re (still) dealing with the global pandemic, civil unrest continues to be present and we have a general election coming up soon! Our world has been turned upside down and we have to establish a new normal. So in the spirit of our edition’s theme, we will be “moving forward” and trying to make sense of it all. Yes, things will not be the same and I don’t expect things to ever go back to the way they were before the pandemic hit. But we have to learn from our experiences and continue on to create a better tomorrow. The stories we’ve featured highlight how the world has changed and what the “new normal” looks like. One thing that COVID-19 will not take away is the power of campus media. The Encounter is always looking for more writers, editors, photographers and graphic designers for our publication! Additionally, we started featuring poems and short stories in our monthly publication. If you are interested in contributing to The Encounter, feel free to reach out to me or email usfencounter@gmail.com. From myself and all the staff at The USF Encounter, we hope you enjoy the “Moving Forward” edition!
Janelle Suriaga Editor-in-Chief
Policies The USF Encounter is published by the students of the University of St. Francis, 500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois, 60435. The newspaper office is located in room S413C of Tower Hall. The USF Encounter phone number is 815.740.3816. As a member of USF Campus Media, the USF Encounter strives to produce a publication that stresses quality writing and design.By reporting on issues that may be sensitive in nature, the USF Encounter aims to educate, inform and persuade students on topics that affect their lives on and off campus. Editorial pages provide USF Encounter staff with opportunities to express thoughtful views on controversial topics. From the top to the bottom: Janelle Suriaga (Editor-in-Chief), Mary Mathieu (Assistant Editor), Richie Mroz (Layout Designer), Lauren Wozniak (Layout Designer), and Beatriz Sindac (Photographer).
Letters to the Editor represent the opinion of the author and are not necessarily opinions of the USF Encounter Staff. Publications of letters to the editor are subject to space availability and management discretion. Letters are also subject to editing. Letters to the editor or any other submissions may be dropped off at the USF Encounter office or emailed to encounter@stfrancis.edu As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom, and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion and peacemaking. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership.
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EDITORIAL COLUMNS Liberals are Insane:
You Matter to Me By: Mary Mathieu Assistant Editor
By: Richie Mroz Layout Designer
TW: Suicide
This is going to be controversial but I do not care. That is the beauty of the First Amendment. Liberals are insane, change my mind. Liberals don't want law abiding citizens to have firearms. Their argument against the Second Amendment is that a "well-regulated militia" refers to the police and military. However, at the same time liberals want to defund and even get rid of the police. Do you know what criminals don't do? Follow the law. If law abiding citizens are severely restricted or not allowed to have firearms to protect themselves and their family and neither are the police, then who will be running things? The criminals! Criminals who will carry firearms regardless of what the law says. Good luck protecting your family against criminals who have guns when you don't.
Mental illness is real. The stigma surrounding it is also real. This month is National Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is a topic that hits close to home for many, including myself. I am a suicide attempt survivor. These six words take less than a minute to say but have taken years for me to express. Mental illness affects many individuals in the world but opening up about mental health struggles is never an easy thing to do. The stigma associated with mental illness tends to hold us back from sharing our stories. The signs often go unnoticed as a result but they don't have to. We have the power to be someone who cares. We all have a light within us that can save. I choose to speak out because I want to see a change. We should not have to be embarrassed to share our story because of the stigma. It’s time to speak out. I believe in you! As we start this month off, please pay attention. We need to challenge ourselves to listen more than we speak, to hear the pain others are feeling. It isn't always obvious but kindness doesn't have to be reserved for the obvious. We have the power to be kind each day. The smallest actsaying hello, smiling at someone, holding the door open for someone — it can save a life. No act is too small. Every act counts. To those struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! I hear you. I care. YOU MATTER TO ME! This month marks the beginning for change. It's time to END THE STIGMA!
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Change My Mind
September 21, 2020
Liberals are insane, change my mind. Liberals advocate for a living wage for all Americans but yet find it acceptable to destroy and burn small and big businesses to the ground that give people who live in these communities a chance to earn a wage in the first place. Liberals are insane, change my mind. Companies like Nike and Apple create ad campaigns to help bring awareness to social change and justice but yet allow their products to be made in sweatshops overseas. Liberals are insane, change my mind. Liberals hate capitalism but lavish in the fact that they can buy a $1,200 iPhone every year. Liberal athletes who make millions of dollars playing a sport will kneel against the flag of the country that gives them that opportunity through its freedoms. Liberals get mad that the man in the White House says he wants to put America first. Let me ask, if America shouldn't be first, then who should be? I’m proAmerica. No matter who you are or where you come from, I just want America to succeed. I just want you to succeed. It just seems to me like the other side does not feel the same way. Liberals are insane and I invite anyone, anyone at all, to change my mind.
Thoughts and opinions of the USF Encounter staff is not reflective of those of the University of St. Francis.
By: Janelle Suriaga Editor-in-Chief Welcome back Saints! There is a lot of information going around about the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, as well as some new local and campus guidelines to follow. Here are some quick pointers and updates to help you navigate this new normal. Is there a vaccine for COVID-19 yet? As of now, there are no vaccines confirmed for the prevention of COVID-19. According to the scientific journal Nature, there are at least 321 vaccine candidates, 32 of which are in clinical trials. However, their effects are not known and more studies are needed to confirm effectiveness.
COVID Updates
Is there a treatment for it? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no specific antiviral treatment recommended for COVID-19. People who have COVID-19 are usually under quarantine and/or receive supportive care to relieve symptoms. If you suspect that you have symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, or respiratory distress), please contact your healthcare provider. Should I wear a face mask or cloth face covering in public? Absolutely. In fact, many stores and restaurants will not let you in or give you service if you do not comply with the mask mandate. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), anyone over the age of two who can medically tolerate a face covering must have a face mask or cloth face covering while out in public, especially in spaces where people cannot maintain safe distance (6 feet) from others. What are some updates that are specific to the Joliet area? Due to some recents spikes in confirmed cases, Will County is one of 29 counties in Illinois that are now at a “warning level” for the novel coronavirus, according to IDPH. The reasons for these spikes vary, but IDPH has mostly attributed them to people attending larger social gatherings, not socially distancing and failing to wear a face mask or cloth face covering.
Why can’t I study in empty classrooms anymore? In the past, students were able to study in empty classrooms whenever there were no ongoing classes present. However, security will not be able to open up empty classrooms for study anymore. This is for ventilation and sanitation purposes. Fresh air needs to be introduced into classrooms and given time to rest and rooms need to be sanitized quite often.
Front cover photo courtesy of Beatriz Sindac Student pictured Geah De Rama
What is Involvio and why do I need a green pass to attend an on-campus class? Involvio is a student engagement app through which you can complete a self-screening process. This process asks you questions concerning potential exposure to COVID-19 and checking for symptoms. Ultimately, this is to ensure that you are okay to come to campus.
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ENCOUNTER News
By: Elizabeth Badalamenti Staff Writer
It’s Caramel Apple Season!
impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. While Dan’s sold 66,000 candy apples last year, owner Karen Nolan believes sales will be lower this year. Many Joliet schools use the apples for fundraisers but with the move to online learning, this likely will not happen. Nevertheless, the first day of 2020 candy apple sales drew a steady crowd on September 9. The top seller?
Chocolate apples. According to Nolan, this is not usual. “It’s a generational thing,” she explains. “It’s just a tradition for a lot of Joliet when the caramel apple [season] hits.” For Dan’s Homemade Candies’s store locations, hours and menu, visit http:// www.danshomemadecandies.com/
Photo courtesy of www.sallysbakingaddiction.com
If you’ve lived in Joliet (or the surrounding area) during the Fall season, you have likely eaten one of Dan’s Homemade Candies’s caramel apples. A local family owned Joliet gem established in 1919, Dan’s Homemade Candies is the second longest running business in Joliet. However like many small businesses, there is concern surrounding how sales will be
Joliet Public Library Removes Fining Policy Joining many other libraries across Illinois, the Joliet Public Library announced on Friday, August 28, that they will no longer charge fines for most overdue materials. Library patrons will simply be encouraged to return materials by the due date. After a material is overdue by seven days, the library will block the patron’s account. After 14 days, their account will be charged for a replacement. According to Joliet Public Library Director Megan Millen, “Studies
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over the years have never found proof that fines incentivize patrons to return materials more quickly. Rather, unpaid fines deter patrons from returning to the library, which runs contrary to the library’s mission to be a welcoming place for everyone.” Millen continues, “Fines disproportionately affect those in our community who need us the most.” Those who have fines accrued from past check-outs will have the opportunity to pay down their balance with cash
or through the library’s new Amnesty Initiative, which allows patrons to make donations to local food pantries and animal shelters instead. The new policy does not apply to interlibrary loans, Playaway Launchpads, Most Wanted Collection materials, and video games. Daily fines will still be placed on these materials if they are not returned on time.
USF & Local News covered by the USF Encounter Princeton Review Names USF Best Midwestern College For the thirteenth consecutive year, The Princeton Review has named the University of St. Francis a Best Midwestern College in its “Best Colleges: Region by Region” feature. Recognizing 651 colleges across the United States in its 2021 edition--158 of which are located in the Midwest-The Princeton Review creates this list to help connect prospective students with well-performing institutions. While the overall campus experience plays a significant role in determining which colleges are included on this list, academic performance is primarily considered according to Robert Franek, The Princeton Review’s Editor-inChief. To make the decision to include
an institution, The Princeton Review analyzes data from surveys given to university administrators and students, information collected from in-person visits, and key points from interviews with college counselors and advisors. When reviewing USF’s listing on the “Best Colleges’' feature, viewers open to a section highlighting various student perspectives that were collected in the surveys. Here, one anonymous student notes how USF professors “treat each student ‘with individual respect’ and “‘really want to see [students] do well.’” Another anonymous student, however, spoke more critically and noted he or she was “not sure anyone in
administration knows what’s going on.” A final anonymous student perceived the student body as a collection of “‘highly motivated’” individuals who “‘know their educational goals.’” Classmates feel comfortable around each other--enough so that “very few have any problem wearing ‘pajamas to class.’” Most students describe USF as a “‘pretty quiet school’” with many students involved in athletics or extracurricular activities. One student, however, thinks of USF as “‘the biggest little party school in the world.’” To view the collection of best Midwestern colleges and see USF’s listing, visit princetonreview.com/ bestMWcolleges.
See ya, Sodexo: USF Welcomes Quest Food Services One-way walkways, divided classroom layouts, and mask requirements are not the only new aspects of campus life at the University of St. Francis this year. Quest Food Management Services has replaced Sodexo Food Services and will serve as the dining service at USF starting with the 2020-21 school year. According to its website, “Quest’s goal is to provide fresh, made from scratch food while offering intensely personal service.” Quest also boasts a ranking as one of the top 50 food management companies in the United States for five years in a row. Despite the transition, many of the dining staff hired through Sodexo have returned as Quest employees. Sonna
NEWS
Vernon Bishop continues to serve as the dining Operations Assistant, Daniel McGee as the Executive Chef, and Diane Reed as the Food Service & Catering Coordinator. While the coronavirus pandemic has limited the menu at all four of USF’s dining locations, students still seem to be pleased with the new dining service. When asked what he thought about Quest, USF junior Michael Nickel stated, “I’m really enjoying the food! I love how many options they have compared to the previous food provider. I can tell that it's high quality and that it’s fresh”. USF junior Codi Cabay appreciates how
little frozen food Quest uses and sees “a noticeable difference in the amount of fresh dishes Quest offers compared to Sodexo.” Caitlin Bruemmer, also a junior, admitted that she can’t fully know how much Quest differs from Sodexo considering the high amount of prepackaged food Quest must serve due to coronavirus restrictions, but based on what she’s eaten so far, she’s satisfied with the quality and variety of healthy options. For more information on Quest Food Services and campus dining, visit https:// www.stfrancis.edu/dining/
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Upcoming
For more information, contact Dr. David Gordon at dgordon@stfrancis.edu
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September 21, 2020
Top 10
Artists Let’s get in touch!
musicdirectorwcsf@stfrancis.edu -- 815-740-3697
1. ALEX THE ASTRONAUT
The Theory Of Absolutely Nothing
2. BULLY
Indistinct Conversations
4. WIDOWSPEAK Plum
5. BOB MOSES Desire
6. WHALE AND THE WOLF Envy [EP]
7. MASTERMINDS, THE Let Us Be Lovers [EP]
8. ANGEL OLSEN Whole New Mess
9. YO LA TENGO Artwork courtesy of WCSF
“Wasn’t Born To Follow” [Single]
10. GANSER
Just Look At That Sky
ENTERTAINMENT
Staff Picks
The USF Encounter Staff took to Spotify and shared their favorite songs from this month in their "Monthly Staff Picks" playlist “Honey” Kehlani “Redeemer” Nicole C. Mullen “There Was Jesus” Zach Williams and Dolly Parton “Heather” Conan Gray
SUGAREGG
3. LAND OF TALK
MONTHLY
“People Need a Melody” The Head and the Heart “Vienna” Billy Joel “Fire” The Black Pumas “Hard Place” H.E.R. “Think about Things” Daði Freyr Pétursson “Sugar Honey Iced Tea” Princess Nokia “Sour Candy (with BLACKPINK)” Lady Gaga “Over Now” The Weeknd “Blow My High” Ozer (Ft. Sussy) “You're the Inspiration” Chicago “Somebody To Love” Queen
Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify!
“Bulletproof” Godsmack
“Lover, Leaver” Greta Van Fleet
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FI ne ARTS
An Excerpt from “Katsaridaphobia” by Mary Kate Hynek
“Things change,” Rowan said, “all the time. “I know,” I said, “change doesn’t have to be bad. It’s what you make it.” They nodded, “And maybe I was this way all along?” “Maybe you were, but you’re no different to me now. You’re still the same Rowan I always knew.” Rowan smiled, putting their arm around my shoulders, “My old friends would have thought that I was weird.” “Then they weren’t your real friends,” I said. Rowan shook their head. “No, they weren’t. They didn’t care about me. Or you. They cared about being popular. “Better” than everyone else. Which was stupid. They tried to drag me along.” “You’re popular to me,” I said, “I know you and I wanna be just like you.” They laughed, then got quiet. “Are you ok?” I asked. They stood still, so I stopped too. “Is it weird to say that I love you?” They asked. They looked horrified, but I smiled. “No. It’s not weird.” “It’s not weird?” “Not weird.” “I didn’t want to make things weird.” “Why would that be weird?” “Because I said that I loved you… that’s not weird?” “Nothing’s weird to me.” “You’re too good for this world, Garnet.” “Wouldn’t it be better if everyone just loved one another for who they were? No matter what?” “You know that would never happen.” “We can make it happen.” “In an ideal world. This world isn’t ideal. Nothing is.” Photo courtesy of www.kindpng.com
“Exactly,” I replied, “That’s why we can make it happen.” A pause. Rowan stared back at me.
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Photos courtesy of Disney+
A Boy and His Dog by Matt Oyer
A boy and his pup, fighting the wind Ball of joy, tucked in a jacket Tired but excited, as young creatures Tend to be, attached with strong, weak Strings A man and his dog, sitting on a mower One red from the sun, the other from beauty Glowing in the light, like Apollo’s hound A second sun, eclipsing the first One A boy, left all alone Dabbing his tears, with anything he can find Latching onto, whatever emotions are left Throwing them away, in case anyone sees him
World Within A Mind by Mary Mathieu
A new day has begun. The alarm is ringing, yet no response. An hour passes by and I am passive. Oh, the difficulty of life. A rather irrelevant difficulty until my expectations call upon me. This is where it all begins. Shows your irresponsibility, your immaturity, your incapability they say. Your words do not define me, at least that is what I want to believe. However, the demons tell me otherwise.
September Chokecherry
Your words only encourage them and discourage me.
by Dr. Elizabeth McDermott
They grow stronger, I grow weaker.
When the wind bends the tree forward— then you’ll see the leaf
You see, your constant pressure, expectations, and stereotypical remarks make up my thoughts.
drop. See it curled
The demons destroy my concentration, degrade my worth, and ultimately feed off my self-destruction.
at the drip line? Winestained, serrated. I’d thought this month too nonchalant to come in or go out like anything. September’s hint of yellow is also the summer’s coreopsis still in bloom. But the chokecherry— who can blame its quick thinking? There’s winter in those first bare branches, budless brush
ENTERTAINMENT
They thrive off your words. The words become engraved into my mind, into my soul. In the end, they define me. Then I am called to live with these scars for the rest of my life. See what your funny jokes have done, your lies, your broken promises. I become a ghost of a child who is now an orphan to the world.
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Blooming by Sara Cahill
The tears trickle down her cheeks Like waterfalls on glacier peaks. Her confidence drifts away Like fall leaves that begin to sway and Tumble to the ground Without a sound. She looks in the mirror and all she sees Are blemishes of herself that make men flee.
Revolution
by Makenzie Munson
As she stands dwelling
Unprecedented circumstances rise.
On the pain that keeps swelling,
A moment frozen inside constant streams.
She only cares to be alone –
Expiring time delays for no demise,
Confined, her heart sinking like a stone.
Observe as pure nightmares eclipse pipe dreams.
She delightfully smiles with a pause
Remote conditions breed foggy details.
Remembering that nature is elegant with flaws.
Best case scenario: the crux of hope.
She understands that her self-worth
But planets deviate, and folly fails;
Is unique like Mother Earth,
With orbits new, we wonder how to cope.
And her beauty should be treasured
Yet somehow, we cope, persevere, endure. We learn to brave the altered gravity
Like the stars that cannot be measured. She knows that one day She will come to say, “Even though I may wilt, And sit in my despair and guilt,
And slowly we regain morale, secure In knowing constancy’s a rarity Discomfort remains temporarily But change is part of life’s anatomy.
I will find courage to blossom Like Austers flourishing in autumn.” But, today is not that day. She is a butterfly in its cocoon; A flower bud waiting to sprout in June. She will find her beauty someday, But there is a great transformation underway.
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Photos courtesy of Disney+
by Abigail Liss | USF '22
ENTERTAINMENT
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Photo courtesy of www.dlcompare.com
A Brief History of Video Gaming
By: Richie Mroz Layout Designer In 2020, video games have plenty to offer. Incredible life-like graphics, complex narratives, superb acting, and engaging gameplay have transformed what was once just pixels moving around on a screen into an entertainment medium that stands on its own. “Red Dead Redemption 2,” Rockstar Games’ 2018 action-adventure western game, had the second-biggest launch in the history of entertainment, generating $725 million in sales from its opening weekend. Individual elements of video games may not amount to much. But when put together, they create something truly spectacular. In order to fully appreciate video games in 2020, it helps to know how they started.
Nintendo released their home console called the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1985. This system had improved graphics, sound, and gameplay that helped give a boost to the industry. Popular games on the NES included “Super Mario Bros.,” “The Legend of Zelda,” and “Metroid.” Sega also released a console known as the Genesis, which initiated the first “console war” of sorts.
In the late 1990s, consoles that supported 3D graphics brought a whole new era of video gaming. In 1995, Sony released the PlayStation. Many other gaming companies could not compete with the PlayStation’s third party game support, which helped PlayStation secure a lot of exclusive games. In 1999, the PlayStation 2 (PS2) was released and would become the best-selling video game console of all time, selling over 155 million units worldwide. In 2001, Microsoft released their According to HISTORY’s website, the first “video game” was first gaming console known as the Xbox. Both Microsoft a version of tic-tac-toe created in 1952 by British professor and Sony have been competing ever since with the release of A.S. Douglas. Building off of that, William Higinbotham the recent consoles like the PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, and Xbox created “Tennis for Two” in 1958. He combined a large analog One. Nintendo is still hanging in there too with its release computer and a oscilloscope screen to simulate the game of of the Wii in 2006 that featured motion controls. Since then, tennis. Nintendo has released the Wii U and the Switch. At the beginning of the 1970s, arcades began to open and arcade games hit the scene. According to Ranker, an entertainment website, the most popular arcade games at the time were titles like “Galaga,” “Pac-Man,” “Ms. Pac-Man,” “Donkey Kong” and “Space Invaders.” Arcades hit their peak in popularity throughout the 1980s and the early 1990s. Along the same timeline as arcade games, home consoles hit the market for the first time. In 1977, Atari released a console called the Atari 2600. The Atari 2600 featured joysticks and interchangeable game cartridges that played multi-colored games, something that was unseen before.
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Video games mean many different things to many different people. University of St. Francis (USF) senior Jalen Williams says that his all-time favorite video game is Kingdom Hearts 2. “From the art style to the story being told, the game is truly beautiful from beginning to end.” Unlike Jalen, USF Professor of Art & Design Chester Alamo-Costello says that he doesn’t have a particular favorite game. “I tend to play games that I see as challenging, have a strong narrative or are by a specific author/designer.” With the PS5 and the Xbox Series X releasing later this year, I think we can expect to see and hear of new experiences that video games create.
Upcoming Are you interested in writing, editing or photography? Join the Encounter staff in producing USF’s very own student-runStaff news in magazine. Join the Encounter producing USF's
student-run Forvery more own information, email our magazine! Editor-in-Chief Katie Wozniak at KatherineWozniak@stfrancis.edu
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USF Students In The novel coronavirus presented many obstacles for college students. This past spring, the University of St. Francis was among thousands of institutions across the country to transition to remote operations. Graduation ceremonies went online, college sports came to a standstill and residents were forced to quickly move out of their dorms. Interactions with friends, classmates and professors were restricted to FaceTime and Zoom calls. But for some students, the pandemic has not only brought changes in their social lives. For students who work in health-related fields, the coronavirus posed several unique challenges. One of those students is Joshua Williams, a USF junior Biology major who worked in orthodontics and general dental practice this past summer. When asked about what kinds of challenges he faced, Williams recalls some concerns he had while on the job. “Working in the dental office, your safety is being compromised every second you are in there. Whether it be assisting the doctor with my hands in a patient’s mouth, cleaning a patient’s room after a procedure or just being in the same room with a patient. You never know who could be infected and who isn’t,” he states. In addition to risk exposure, workers in healthcare fields continue to run low on personal protective equipment (PPE). Since the start of the pandemic, prices for PPE have increased and the demand continues to outgrow the supply. A press release by the World Health Organization (WHO) addressed the shortage and the increase in PPE costs by calling for national governments to produce more equipment and for healthcare facilities to appropriately reuse equipment. For Williams, his workplace was fortunate enough to be properly equipped with PPE. However, it came at a cost that affected the practice’s employees financially. “My office invested a lot of money into PPE and we never had a problem with that, so thank God. But this came as an expense to my personal paycheck as raises were not given out as they were regularly because we spent that on extra PPE. I thought it was a good investment because at the end of the day, it was for the doctor’s and my safety.” Another USF student who worked directly with patients over the summer is Franco Rota, a senior Biology major. Rota, whose major is focused on Pre-Physical Therapy concentration, worked as a rehab aide for an outpatient physical therapy service. He recalls some challenges that he faced over the summer. “Certain COVID-related challenges I encountered were a reduction of hours and a greater difficulty in connecting with patients. It was also difficult observing their facial cues to determine if they were in pain during any specific exercise regimen or treatment plan.” And similar to Williams, Rota’s workplace was not drastically affected by the PPE shortage. “In my healthcare facility, I did not face a PPE shortage or dangerous virus exposure,” he states. When students returned back to school, many students noticed several measures they had to adhere to. These measures included using the Involvio app to conduct self-screening and entering campus through designated entryways with temperature-checking screens. This is all part of USF’s Preparedness Plan to ensure that the campus can resume in-person operations. When asked about USF’s new policies for the fall semester, both Williams and Rota seemed optimistic about the future. Rota states, “I believe the college is doing a wonderful job in the reopening process and aiding in making a safe and welcoming learning environment for all. All the professors have been very accommodating in this process. I feel that the Involvio app is very beneficial and good at tracking and screening each student. The temperature screens are also quite reassuring to me.”
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September 21, 2020
Photo courtesy of www.ksby.com
The HeaLthcare Workforce
By: Janelle Suriaga Editor-in-Chief
Williams also approved USF’s precautionary measures. “I will give the school credit. I think they are doing a good job so far. I like the idea that I could check my own temperature when walking into the building. I think it is a great resource especially for the students who may be too scared to check it themselves. I also took advantage of the free COVID testing that the school scheduled which I was genuinely impressed with! I think the school is doing what they can for the students to stay safe while also receiving a quality education,” Williams says. Williams also notes that although there are more class options available, in-person learning will ultimately benefit most USF students. “While some students learn better online, they still get the in-class experience they would receive prior to the manifestation of the pandemic,” he explains. Despite the challenges we’ve faced this past couple of months, it seems like students are looking forward to continuing classes in-person this fall. Although we are still dealing with the pandemic, our education continues. Hopefully, we use others’ experiences to remind ourselves that overcoming this ordeal requires us to be more mindful of each other.
"But for some students, the pandemic has not only brought changes in their social lives. For students who work in health-related fields, the coronavirus posed several unique challenges. " FEATURE
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Consumer Culture Photo courtesy of www. retailcustomerexperience.com
&COVID By: Sarah Cahill Staff Writer
As we all know, life—and the way we were able to spend our money – drastically changed after we were sent home to quarantine in mid-March. With the closing of businesses and restaurants, the consumer spending took a sudden and sharp decline. 16 million people filed for unemployment and were forced to stay home, noted by the New York Times. The quarantine and precautious spending negatively impacted businesses. According to a joint study done by the University of Illinois, University of Chicago and Harvard University, it was projected that “more than 100,000 small businesses would shut down permanently” due to the virus. A coronavirus impact poll for small businesses conducted by the United States Chamber of Commerce reported that 70 percent of small businesses are stressed about financial tribulations and 58 percent are concerned about having to close. However, with the high-speed internet and data that is accessible to most, there undoubtedly was a spike in online consumer spending and curb-side services for groceries and restaurants. According to CNBC, ordering online and picking up at stores “surged [to] 208 percent between April 1 and April 20” and other online sales jumped to “49 percent from March 12 to April 11.” Additionally, culture and tech website Mashable reported that “ecommerce sites experienced traffic that surpassed last year’s Black Friday, every single day of the month.” USF Junior Hannah Schroeder commented, “Quarantine definitely made me want to shop more because I was so bored, and all of my favorite stores were shut down! All of the sites that I visited were having huge sales that I honestly could not resist.” When asked about what websites she visited most frequently, she responded, “I ordered a lot at Michael’s and Target. I also love to shop at small businesses, so I found a lot of new stores off of Etsy or social media that I bought from.” As we progress into the coronavirus unknown, continue to shop small and support local businesses as they are wrestling their way through this trying time. Of course, there are a ton in Joliet and even more to discover in surrounding areas or online! I highly recommend stopping in downtown Joliet for a coffee at Jitters, authentic tacos at Blue Taco, heavenly cheesecake at Cheesecake by James and grabbing a donut from HomeCut, which is located on Jefferson. We are all in this together!
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"...continue to shop small and support local businesses as they are wrestling their way through this trying time."
What About the Pups? Trends in Pet Adoption and Fostering During Tough Times
By: Mary Mathieu Assistant Editor Photo courtesy of musicandsunshine.com
Dogs are a man’s best friend, especially during a global pandemic. Animal shelters and rescues have experienced high numbers of successful animal adoptions amid COVID-19. According to CNBC, “33 percent of Americans have considered getting a pet now that social distancing is the new norm.” After being quarantined for so long, we all need a little extra tender love and care. Dogs are the perfect companions to provide us with the company we seek. Having a dog not only contributes to our mental well-being, but also to our physical, as dogs require frequent walks. Getting out in nature is one great way to stay sane during the pandemic and our canine companions love it too! What could be better? Our dog best friends have a way of helping us without us even noticing it at times. That truly is the beauty of having a relationship with a canine. Happiness is almost always guaranteed. And don’t forget about those puppy eyes. They’re irresistible! What’s not to love? Fostering pups has also become a hit during the times. Foster families often fall in love with the dogs they foster and decide to permanently make them a part of their family. Shelter animals are finally finding the homes they deserve. Happy endings are the best, especially when puppies are involved! Although volunteering at animal shelters and rescues is not an option during COVID-19, individuals and families that are not able to adopt or foster can still help. Local organizations depend on shelter supplies, many of which are donated to them. According to the Will County Humane Society, the organization needs materials like dog food, paper towels, and dish soap. Hopeful Tails Animal Rescue appreciates any monetary donations that people can afford to give at this time to help cover the costs of needed supplies. Both shelters would greatly appreciate any help they can get to provide the best care for the animals housed in the rescues. Your donations do not go unnoticed! It’s time to give back to our best friends for all the love and happiness they bring us. Dogs truly are a man’s best friend, even without a pandemic.
" Shelter animals are finally finding the homes they deserve." FEATURE
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The Arrogant American By: Rodolfo Pérez SGA President and Guest Writer Note: The following does not reflect SGA or any SGA affiliated organizations. “I call on the workers, peasants, revolutionary intellectuals, enlightened elements of the bourgeoisie and other enlightened persons of all colors in the world, whether white, black, yellow or brown, to unite to oppose the racial discrimination practiced by U.S. imperialism and support the American Negroes in their struggle against racial discrimination.”- Chairman Mao Tsetung, August 8th, 1963.
Notes on the Fight for Racial Justice in the U.S. Americans dismissing statistics like these as nothing more than an issue within the black community (or black culture) rather than confront the idea that this issue has been imposed on communities of color since the country’s founding. So far has the arrogant white American’s fight to retain its systemic dominance gone that I saw it unfold in this very city. Joliet’s mayor Bob O'Dekirk assaulted protestors on camera yet he remains in office.
The arrogant white American is not ignorant of the racial injustices that exist in America today. On the contrary, the I first came across this quote from Chairman Mao in October arrogant white American is intelligent enough to understand the of 2019, where the world seemed drastically calmer, bigger and plight people of color face every day of their lives. However, quieter. I remember reading articles across major world news they do everything they can to construe data and anecdotal outlets that were covering escalating protests in Hong Kong, evidence to convince themselves and others that the United elections in Argentina, and bodies being found in a container States has moved on from its deep seeded racism and that what truck in Essex. To the arrogant American, these headlines is being said in regards to racial injustices today, is in itself, served as nothing more than stories- things to read on the racist. I cannot tell you how many times over the past few morning commute or talk about while eating lunch. To the months I have had John Doe from the Middle of Nowhere, arrogant American, these headlines served as nothing more than USA, try and convince me that the data and my experiences are evidence to support the idea that the United States was not as wrong, as if I were crazy. bad as “those other countries”. I say that because I remember having conversations about those exact headlines, only to be A thought that has crossed my mind constantly well before met by a tone of amusement rather than genuine concern when the explosion of protests and calls for system reform came discussing such serious topics. to the forefront of American and world news is change on all aspects that make up our society. A difficult question that The events over the last five months have been a wakeup call comes to mind is “What changes can we make in our own lives for America. What happened to George Floyd and countless to combat racial injustice?” To answer this question, I reached others is far from an anomaly in America. We live in a country out to Miryam Perez, president of Unidos Vamos A Alcancar, where black Americans are 3.23 times more likely to be a club on campus that looks to organize Latinx students as well killed by a cop than white Americans, according to Harvard as other people of color to provide a safe space for minority University. A statistic like that is so angering that the only students to discuss their experiences and learn. When asking her thing that angers me more are the memories of arrogant white about what she feels her role is in the struggle for racial justice
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she said, “In being a part of the Latinx community, although the hope is to see solidarity or at least an understanding of what black people are going through, I instead see a lot of ignorance which forces you to reassess your own culture, or even your own family. You start to see that there is an anti-blackness that is embedded in your own culture. It takes time to struggle against it and unlearn it so you can properly support your black brothers and sisters but it must be done. That is at the top of my agenda as president of UVA. We have to re-educate ourselves and see that our hands are not clean of the antiblackness that exists today even though we ourselves are people of color. We must learn to be self-critical if we expect any progress to be made.�
Photos courtesy of www.esquire.com
Dear readers, this is your wakeup call. To the people of color who are reading this, to paraphrase Malcolm X, no one can give you equality or justice- you must take it. There is never a time to accept an injustice, no matter who supports it or however close that injustice is to your home or your identity. You must fight to destroy the root of the injustice, by any means necessary. To the arrogant American reading this, watching what is unfolding as if it does not apply to you, I encourage you to smarten up and reflect, for there is no debate nor civil discourse when it comes to human rights. We must change in accordance to our history or we are doomed to repeat it. Black Lives Matter.
"There is never a time to accept an injustice, no matter who supports it or however close that injustice is to your home or your identity." COMMENTARY
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Self-Care During a Time of Isolation
By: Clarissa Del Rio Staff Writer
This year has been filled with change. From how we socialize, pick up our groceries and attend school and work, change is all around us. Everything we do is adjusted to keep us healthy and safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking care of our physical health is of great importance; however, it is essential to keep up with our mental health and well being. If your selfcare routine has seemed to have slipped through the cracks during quarantine and social distancing, or if you are feeling burnt out with everything going on, it may be time to reevaluate your personal care patterns. Things are not going to return to “normal” anytime soon, so if you are feeling drained, here are some tips on how to put yourself first in 2020.
around your schedule. Even if you did not gain weight during quarantine, exercise and diet are still critical in improving sleep quality, energy levels, and brain health and memory, according to Healthline, a health information website. You have nothing to lose and endless positives to gain from setting aside 30 minutes to break a sweat and adding some more fruits and veggies to your diet.
You may have heard of the “freshman 15” but how about the “quarantine 15?” One of the most important parts of our self care includes getting adequate exercise and having a balanced diet. With gyms being closed, us being stuck at home and the opportunity to overeat, many of us have inevitably put on a couple of pounds. Do not panic! There are thousands of resources online to get you up and moving. For instance, there are pre-recorded Zumba sessions on YouTube to stay active during quarantine. On top of this, Pinterest also provides endless ideas for healthy recipes and workout routines. The best part? Both of these platforms are completely free and work
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"'Take a nap. Everything else can wait.'"
Photos courtesy of www.freepngimg.com and pngimage.net
To say that 2020 has been a difficult year would be an understatement. After all, we are in the middle of an election, a worldwide social movement for racial equality, a pandemic and even murder hornets are roaming the Earth. And to be a student during all of it makes it even more challenging. The Many people assume that you need to have “something wrong circumstances of the time will affect our mental well-being. As with you” to see a therapist or counselor. This stigma could much as we want to stay in the loop of these important worldnot be further from the truth. Just like you go to a doctor or wide events, sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves dentist for a checkup, your mental health also requires frequent is unplug for an hour or a day from social media and the news. checkups. Just like the rest of your body, the same standards The most important thing you can do for your mental health should be applied to your mind. After all, would you go 20 is to be kind to yourself. Also try to keep in mind that we are years without seeing a dentist? Do you only see a doctor when all trying to figure out this chaotic year. We are in this together! you are experiencing a medical emergency? Therapy can give USF senior Denise Lopez encourages us to "Take that nap. you the tools needed to cope with the stress of everyday life, Everything else can wait.” Remember that it is perfectly okay not just traumatic events. In fact, people see therapists for a if all you did today was breathe. However, it is not okay to put plethora of reasons such as stressing situations, navigating your well-being and mental health last on the list of things we big life choices, expressing oneself in a healthy way, reflecting have to grapple with in 2020. Take care of yourself first! The personal patterns and building better relationships. Here at USF rest will follow. there are both in-person and online options to receive therapy. And yes, it is included in your tuition!
COVID Impacts Cross By: Eve Odum Staff Writer The women’s cross country team had an astounding fourth place finish at nationals in 2019, and they were hoping to sweep the title this year. Male and female teams won conference last year and were looking for a repeat season. But with the pandemic, the journey to get there might look a little different. USF’s athletic department devised a safety plan for all sports. Each athlete is required to fill out a daily Covid screening form prior to practice, have their temperatures checked upon arrival, and wear a mask until their coach gives permission to remove it. Even with these precautions in place, it is not weakening the team’s overall morale. Teammates still enjoy meals together, hang out after practice (while social distancing of course), and chit chat during runs. Sophomore runner Josel Hernandez stated that “Besides for running in practice groups, the general atmosphere has not changed that drastically.” Something that will drastically impact team performance though is redshirting. This is when an athlete decides to not compete for a season for various reasons. Many of USF’s top runners have chosen to redshirt this season because of all the unknowns and potential for cancelations. Those who are redshirting will be able to make this season up if they attend college an extra year and will still have the opportunity to practice with the team this season.
Photo courtesy of www.pintrest.com
Although this may seem like a loss to those who are still competing, it is not. It is actually opening up opportunities for other runners to step up. Junior Elyse Panzella said, “People who may not have had the chance to run at nationals may have a better shot.” Cross members have been putting on the miles since the summer. Starting during camp week, which took place the week before school started, the team was up at 6am for a morning run and doing a workout later that afternoon. They recently had a time trial mile run to gauge where everyone was at with training. Some people hit personal records, which just goes to show that COVID cannot hold the cross team back. Due to safety concerns, the national cross country meet has been pushed back to the spring semester, but USF will still be competing this fall. Their first meet is scheduled for September 25 in Bourbonnais. Conference will be held on November 7. Good luck to everyone on the cross team!
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COVID-19 and Sports: How Leagues and Teams Are Responding to the Pandemic By: Cosme Lozano Staff Writer
Major League Baseball (MLB) has also experienced trouble implementing and following COVID-19 safety precautions. The Miami Marlins was one of the first teams to be in the news for their mishandeling of these measures. The team had 20 confirmed cases and quarantined in Philadelphia prior to their opening day. Due to large amounts of players being sidelined, the team had to forfeit. The St. Louis Cardinals also had to pause their season from July 30 through August 15 after an increase of positive test results. They are now playing games almost every day to make up for lost time. Despite these troubles, some fans of the sport are not too fazed by the recent disruptions. USF senior Jordan Missig reflects, “Yes, there have been some flaws with people testing positive for the virus.
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September 21, 2020 Photo courtesy of Mitchell Leff
The National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have taken a different approach— they have created a “bubble location” where eligible teams are invited to play. This method allows each league to compete for their respective championship trophy amid COVID-19 restrictions. Both leagues have had no positive test results. Markham Heid from Popular Mechanics wrote, “On Aug. 19, the National Basketball Association announced the results of its most recent round of COVID-19 testing. Among the 341 basketball players tested, zero were positive for the novel coronavirus.” So far, the “bubble system” has proven to be an effective method to protect athletes while competing. Sports are a contributing factor to the entertainment of many. To ensure our sporting seasons stay alive, there is a need for us to take the appropriate steps. We all have an important part to play during this time and we can get through this together. We are Saints United!
Photo courtesy of www.ktla.com
One example is with the National Football League (NFL). According to the league, 77 individuals tested positive for COVID-19. Teams like the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers were affected. Kevin Siefert of ESPN stated, “The NFLPA has initiated an investigation into both the testing process at the lab site in question and whether or not all of our protocols were followed." It was later found out that the 77 tests were false-positives. Improved testing methods are hoped for by many NFL athletes because it determines the success of their season, a season that they desire to play. Occurrences like testing mishaps can potentially result in the suspension of players. In their absence, teams can lose crucial games.
However, the league has done an excellent job with postponing games and allowing teams to come back and play once they are healthy.”
Photo courtesy of www.sports.yahoo.com
An industry that has been heavily impacted by the current pandemic is the American sports industry. Professional athletes are now required to undergo frequent testing for COVID-19. What happens when tests reveal positive results?
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