It’s difficult to bike around Chicago safely. Check our guide on page 18.
DePaulia
The
DePaul athletics held the inaugural ‘The Billys’ awards Friday night. Find out the winners on page 28.
Volume #106 | Issue #26 | May 23, 2022 | depauliaonline.com
‘WHY WILL IT WORK THIS TIME’ Chicagoans question Lightfoot’s plans to curb crime By Sam Moilanen Staff Writer
When entering Millennium Park Thursday evening, one would expect to see tourists and Chicago natives alike laughing, snapping photographs next to “The Bean,” and enjoying the summer evening. Instead, visitors were greeted by security officers, subjected to bag checks, handheld wand screening and surrounded by police officers and private security routinely surveying the park. The downtown park, once known as a safe space for people of all ages to venture to enjoy the summer evening, is now rife with security in light of a recent shooting. In response to the fatal shooting May 14, resulting in the death of 16-year-old Seandell Holliday, Mayor Lori Lightfoot implemented a 6 p.m. curfew for all unaccompanied minors in Millennium Park, Thursday through Saturday. On Tuesday, Lightfoot issued an executive order to change the city’s curfew for teens from 11 p.m. to 10 p.m., which was passed by City Council’s Public Safety Committee during a meeting Friday. The new policy also extended the curfew to include 17-year-olds indefinitely, where in the previous ordinance, it only applied to minors ages 12 to 16. “We, as a City, cannot allow any of our public spaces to become platforms for danger,” Lightfoot said in a statement addressing the shooting and new curfew. “This new policy will be strictly enforced and violations will be dealt with swiftly.” Lightfoot’s strategies to reduce violence with curfews received immediate backlash from the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois (ACLU). “There is literally no evidence that curfews reduce crime,” said Edwin Yohnka to The DePaulia, the director for communications and public policy at the ACLU of Illinois. “I don’t understand the approach and it feels like just going in the wrong direction.” Although it is not the first time increased security measures have been used in Chicago’s downtown parks, it is typically for large events and not everyday life. “Adding security measures to Millennium Park is a way to make tourists feel safe and not to protect the people who live here,” Chicago resident Rayy Vana said.
PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER | THE DEPAULIA
A Chicago Police Officer walks by the Bean in Millennium Park Thursday afternoon as visitors take photos near the attraction. Before the start of the pandemic, Lightfoot announced an updated security plan for Millennium Park, including bag checks and metal detectors upon entering the park, but this was only enforced during concerts and major events. “All these [solutions] have been done years ago and none of them worked,” Yohnka said. “Why will they work this time?” During the press conference on public safety Friday afternoon, Lightfoot said the primary cause of the recent downtown shootings is young people’s access to guns. “That is literally what is killing us,” Lightfoot said in the statement. “Too many illegal guns readily accessible, now, to children.” As of May 2, downtown shootings were already up 22 percent compared to the same period a year ago, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Now, the downtown area is once again experiencing an increase in gun violence causing concern for residents and city officials about the safety of Chicago’s downtown. On Wednesday, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill banning “ghost guns” throughout the state. The bill, which outlaws guns without serial numbers, was
See CURFEW, page 9
PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER | THE DEPAULIA
Security in Millennium Park scans visitors with a metal detector at the newly implemented security checkpoint near the park’s west entrance. A curfew was initiated last week.
DePaul law graduate enters mayor’s race with community focus By Patrick Sloan-Turner Staff Writer
Kam Buckner is used to having his hands full. The Democrat and Illinois state representative serves in the state’s general assembly, chairs the Legislative Black Caucus and fathered a son last year. Now, he has another task to juggle. On May 12, Buckner declared
his candidacy for next year’s Chicago mayoral election. Managing so many responsibilities might be overwhelming to some, but the DePaul Law alumnus says the key is hard work. “Nobody’s going to outwork me,” the 37-year-old told The DePaulia over his son’s cries as
he changed the 6-month-old’s diaper. Before assuming his current position as a state representative for the 26th district in 2019, the South Side native received his law degree from DePaul in 2012. By then, Buckner already had an impressive resume, serving as an aide to U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin on Capitol Hill after graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he
played football. “When he graduated, he could’ve gone on and used his connections to get a corporate job and made a lot of money,” said Major General Charles Tucker, the former leader of DePaul College of Law’s International Human Rights Law Institute. “But here’s a guy who’s always been about… dealing with people’s issues [because] he cares about them.”
Buckner, whose mother worked as a Chicago Public Schools teacher and father as a deputy sergeant at the Cook County Sheriff ’s Department, says the tenets of a public servant have been in him for as far back as he can remember. Friday marked the 10-year anniversary of Buckner’s graduation from DePaul’s College of Law, which
See BUCKNER, page 7
2 | News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
First Look
CAMPUS COVID-19 CASES April 8, 2022 - May 27, 2022
The DePaulia is the official student-run newspaper of DePaul University and may not necessarily reflect the views of college administrators, faculty or staff. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Lawrence Kreymer eic@depauliaonline.com PRINT MANAGING | Nika Schoonover managing@depauliaonline.com ONLINE MANAGING | Nate Burleyson online@depauliaonline.com NEWS EDITOR | Nadia Hernandez news@depauliaonline.com ASST. NEWS EDITOR | Kiersten Riedford news@depauliaonline.com NATION & WORLD EDITOR | Jackson Healy nation@depauliaonline.com OPINIONS EDITOR | Erik Uebelacker opinion@depauliaonline.com FOCUS EDITOR | Josephine Stratman focus@depauliaonline.com ARTS & LIFE EDITOR | Amber Stoutenborough artslife@depauliaonline.com ASST. ARTS & LIFE EDITOR | Lilly Keller artslife@depauliaonline.com SPORTS EDITOR | Darcy Waskiewicz sports@depauliaonline.com ASST. SPORTS EDITOR | Joshua M. Hicks sports@depauliaonline.com ART EDITOR | Alicia Goluszka art@depauliaonline.com PHOTO CHIEF | Emily Soto photo@depauliaonline.com
SOURCE: COVID-19 DASHBOARD | DEPAUL UNIVERSITY
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CORRECTIONS
Correction: The latest Faculty Council article was changed to reflect that the motion to support long-term contracts for term faculty members serving as senior professional lecturers was tabled, not approved. The headline was also changed to better reflect the content of the story. The headline is now “Faculty Council makes handbook changes related to Term, Adjunct Faculty.”
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La DePaulia es el noticiero oficial estudiantil en español de la Universidad DePaul, enfocado en proveer una voz para la comunidad latinx. Nuestras opiniones no necesariamente reflejan las opiniones de la administración, facultad o personal de la universidad. JEFA DE REDACCIÓN | JACQUELINE CARDENAS eicladepaulia@depauliaonline.com GERENTE EDITORIAL | SANTIAGO POSADAJARAMILLO managingladepaulia@depauliaonline.com EDITOR DE OPINIONES, ARTE Y VIDA | ANDREA JUAREZ opinionesladepaulia@depauliaonline.com EDITORA DE MULTIMEDIA | VANESSA RAMOS multimedialadepaulia@ depauliaonline.com ASISTENTE EDITORA DE MULTIMEDIA | FRANKIE PEREZ assistantmedialadepaulia@depauliaonline. com PODCAST PRODUCER | GEOVANI CAMARENA TRANSLATOR | RODRIGO MELGAREJO
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News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 3
‘I expected nothing from DePaul’ Alumni conflicted over not being invited back for ceremony By Nadia Hernandez News Editor
For the past two years, Wintrust Arena has stayed silent during the second week of June when graduation happens. Families have been unable to anxiously await seeing their loved one walk across the stage in a symbolic act of completing the past four years. This summer will be the first time students will celebrate their achievements. Alumni from the 2020 and 2021 classes will never have the opportunity to commemorate their college years. DePaul will not invite 2020 or 2021 graduates back for the 2022 commencement ceremony due to a lack of interest from alumni, according to President A. Gabriel Esteban. In an interview with The DePaulia earlier in May, Esteban said that the university had reserved Wintrust Arena for a couple of days in June 2021 for a potential commencement. It was canceled after the administration gathered feedback from alumni via surveys that there wasn’t enough enthusiasm, according to Esteban. “The Provost did surveys, they looked at who might come back might not,” Esteban told The DePaulia on May 3. “It was recommended to me that no, there wasn’t sufficient interest in proceeding. So that decision was made.” For 2021 graduates, there was a virtual ceremony and several in person events over the course of ten days hosted by the university. Graduates could only bring two guests, as opposed to the six guests for in -person ceremony, according to Newsline. There was only a virtual ceremony for 2020 graduates. “I certainly appreciated that they were trying to do something,” alumna Rachel Rudolph said. “I didn’t personally attend because it wasn’t a graduation ceremony.” Last year, the university decided not to hold an in-person ceremony in February. Nationally, Covid-19 vaccines were not widely available yet and masks were recommended indoors, according to the American Journal of Managed Care. In May 2021, vaccines became available for the public, including college students, according to the White House. “From a safety standpoint, in terms of last year, I completely understand that rea-
DEPAUL NEWSLINE
The Graduation Celebration included mini events and photo opportunities for graduates. They were only allowed to bring two vaccinated guests. At this year’s in-person ceremony, graduates are allowed to bring six unvaccinated and unmasked guests. soning,” Rudolph said. “I was personally frustrated because a lot of other universities and schools [were] able to organize outdoor ceremonies, they were able to make something happen.” Neighboring schools, like University of Illinois at Chicago, were able to have an in-person ceremony in June. DePaul’s administration paid attention to what other schools were doing to see if they could mimic them. “We looked at them and what they were doing to make sure we understood how they were doing in terms of inviting people back,” Esteban said. Rudolph felt like DePaul’s efforts were lackluster compared to other universities. “It was just frustrating that so many schools were putting in so much effort to make it happen or make something happen no matter what,” she said. Alumna Charlie Carey did not expect DePaul to pivot from their decision. She was unaware they even considered inviting graduates back. “I expected nothing from DePaul after they made our commencement a power-
point presentation on YouTube,” Carey said. Rudolph reached out to DePaul’s administration this year about their plans to invite graduates back. The administration originally told her they planned to invite the 2020 and 2021 graduates for this year’s ceremony. “They said that they were planning to invite us back in the future,” she said. “So the news that there was a lack of interest is pretty shocking to me.” Other alumni also confirmed that they did not receive an email from the Provost about a survey pertaining to 2022 graduation. “It seems kind of unfair to say that there’s a lack of interest when there’s not really a way presented for us to express our interest in the first place,” Rudolph said. Graduation would have symbolized their achievement after four years, Carey said. “It would have been nice to have our graduations celebrated in one way, especially for people like me who are the first grandkids to be graduating,” she said. For some alumni, a ceremony is trivial. Alumna Jillian Morrison appreciated the mini events and thought it was a great effort
from the university. “I’m not interested in sitting next to people I don’t know while listening to generic speeches,” she said. “I understand how for other people and their families it’s a much bigger deal.” Carey was one of those students where a ceremony would have symbolized the first grandchild to graduate in her family. However, the ceremony wasn’t the only thing she missed out on. A year of virtual learning meant missing out on the little things. A ceremony a year after felt insignificant. “It’s been another year since I’ve moved on,” she said. “It would feel a little awkward or regressing to be ‘graduating’ a year later.” When looking back at her college graduation, Rudolph won’t have memories of walking across the stage. Instead, her aunt’s words will stand out. “We watched the virtual graduation and at one point my aunt leaned over to me on the couch and said, ‘This feels like an advertisement for DePaul, not a graduation,’” Rudolph said.
2022 Commencement Student Speakers Sam Kerns
Mayra Del Real
The Theatre School
Driehaus College of Business
Victoria Hall College of Communication
Watfae Zayed College of Science and Health
Lenin M. Plazas College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Tara-Ann Dugan
Kellstadt Graduate School of Business
INFORMATION FROM DEPAUL NEWSLINE
4 | News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Budget surplus awards bonus to faculty, staff Faculty Council Beat Writer
DePaul administrators announced that university faculty and staff will receive a one-time payment on Friday, May 20, according to Newsline. Due to “increased financial pressure faculty and staff are facing due to the current inflationary environment,” the payment amount to respective employees is based on compensation level, the article stated. The statement, penned by President A. Gabriel Esteban, Provost Salma Ghanem and Executive Vice President Sherri Sidler, cited a moderate operating surplus as means for the payment. The structure of payments was approved by the Board of Trustees, according to Newsline.. DePaul’s Strategic Resources Allocation Committee recommended the payment to the board and it was endorsed by President Esteban. Faculty and staff earning a baseline salary up to $50,000, will receive a $2,000 payment, those earning between $50,001 and $100,000 will receive $1,500 and those earning between $100,101 and $120,000 will be given a payment of $1,000. Part-time faculty and staff will receive $700. Faculty Council President Sonia Soltero emailed the following statement to The DePaulia on the recent budget
Money awarded to each faculty or staff member in budget surplus Type of staff members who are receiving money
By Patrick Sloan-Turner
Full-time faculty earning annual base salary of up to $50,000 Full-time faculty earning annual base salary between $50,001 and $100,000 Full-time faculty earning annual base salary between $100,001 and $125,000 Part-time faculty and staff
approval: “The one-time payment that was proposed by the Strategic Resource Allocation Committee (SRAC) and then approved by the President and the Board of Trustees was a welcomed financial increment for faculty and staff, especially for those in the lower salary rungs. For the past few years, administration’s budget tightening has resulted in salary freezes, departmental cuts, and hiring
$0
$200
$400 $600
$800 $1,000 $1,200 $1,400 $1,600 $1,800 $2,000
Amount of money given in the one-time bonus
KIERSTEN RIEDFORD | THE DEPAULIA
freezes. This resulted in increased workloads and stress as well as worsening of morale, compounded by the stressors and traumatic times of the pandemic. This one-time payment, coupled with the 2 percent salary raise and 403b match reinstatement which were approved in Fall 2021, shows a good faith
effort by the executive administration and the Board to ameliorate the losses we incurred and to recognize faculty and staff ’s enduring dedication and commitment to our students during a global pandemic and under financial constraints.”
CAMPUS CRIME REPORT: May 11, 2022 - May 17, 2022 LINCOLN PARK CAMPUS 1
990 W Fullerton Building 2
Centennial Hall McGowan North
LOOP CAMPUS
7 5
McCabe Hall 7
Student Center
Lewis Center
4
DePaul Center
14
7 8&9
3
Bryne Hall
LINCOLN PARK CAMPUS
Assault & Theft
6
Drug & Alcohol
Other
LOOP CAMPUS
May 11 1) A Graffiti report was filed for markings on 990 W. Fullerton
May 12 7) A Graffiti report was filed for markings on the DePaul Center
May 12 2) A Possession of Cannabis report was filed in Centennial Hall.
May 15 8) An Aggravated Battery report was filed regarding a shooting that took place near campus at Adams & State. A Safety Alert was issued regarding the incident.
May 15 3) A Graffiti report was filed regarding markings on the Byrne Hall Emergency Call Box. 4) A Theft report was filed regarding an incident in the Student Center. 5) A Graffiti report was filed for markings on McCabe Hall. May 17 6) A Harassment by Electronic Means report was filed for a person receiving unwanted e-mails in McGowan North.
9) A Theft was reported in the lobby of University Center.
News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 5
Community organizers come together to envision construction of 63rd House PHOTO| STUDIO GANG
The 63rd House will be 11,250 square feet and will be on the corner of W. 63rd Street and S. Albany Avenue. Multiple activists are working together to design the building.
By Jacqueline Cardenas La DePaulia Editor-in-Chief
A few summers ago, community organizers at Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) gathered around a vacant parking lot in Chicago Lawn, and brought in plant beds, stools and laid down wood chips in efforts to reactivate the space. As Jasmine Serrano, the health organizer at SWOP, picked up pieces of garbage around the lot, she remembers people from the neighborhood telling her angrily to leave because they thought she was trying to tow their cars. Serrano explained that her intention was not to entrench in their area, but to create a common space for the community. As the interaction simmered, a woman who lived on the block came close to Serrano and said: “Wow, it’s about time somebody did something for us.” Left astounded by her comment, Serrano felt it demonstrated the lack of agency people felt in their own neighborhood. To Serrano, this woman is the most powerful person on the block. “Who’s more powerful than someone who lives there and owns a home and whose kids go to school here?” Serrano said. “She saw that she had none. And so, it’s that kind of thinking that I think needs to be agitated, and now, she wasn’t wrong for thinking that. But it’s just a deep wish of mine that people understood their power.” Helping restore a sense of autonomy to Chicago neighborhood children, teenagers and adults, is a common value that brought community organizers like Hoda Katebi, Jasmine Serrano, Timmy Châu and Devonta Boston together in envisioning the construction of the 63rd House. The 63rd house will be a multi-functional community space and manufacturing studio in Chicago Lawn. It will encapsulate the common goals each community organizer wishes to achieve. The idea to construct the house was initiated by Hoda Katebi, the owner of Blue Tin Production, an apparel manufacturing company that aims to abolish the exploitation of workers in sweatshops and unethical clothing production. The location of the 11,250 square feet building also has deep historical significance, it is just blocks away from where
PHOTO| STUDIO GANG
The house is in the process of being designed as a multi-purpose space and manufacturing studio in the Chicago Lawn area. Martin Luther King Jr. was assaulted while marching through the neighborhood to desegregate housing in 1966. Constructing the house on 3055 West 63rd Street was also a natural choice for Katebi because most of Blue Tin’s members and other organizers live in the city’s South and Southwest sides. “It was one of the few neighborhoods that we were looking at just because of that’s who we were,” Katebi said. The 63rd house will include a co-working space for youth and organizers after school, a small library, an art gallery space, a meditation room, a rooftop garden, office spaces and more. The organizers met through mutual friends, eventually linking them to a larger web of community organizations. Devonta Boston, the founder of TGiMovement, a community organization that started at Gage Park High School in 2014 to provide youth entrepreneurship knowledge and educational resources, connected Katebi to Serrano’s work at SWOP. SWOP’s mission to advance racial equity and economic justice by helping build community leadership paralleled Blue Tin Production’s. “We often know a good thing when we see it,” Serrano said about the 63rd House. Boston’s personal attraction to Blue Tin Production’s construction of the 63rd
“Who’s more powerful than someone who lives there and owns a home and whose kids go to school here?”
Jasmine Serrano
Health organizer at Southwest Organizing Project house sparked after the launch of his 2020 Reclaiming The Hood Campaign. The campaign raised money for Black and Brown businesses owners to encourage conversation around generational wealth within the community that he knew “63rd house aligned with that moment and mission.” Meanwhile, Timmy Châu is the managing director of Prison + Neighborhood Arts/Education Project (PNAP), an organization that focuses on teaching incarcerated students at Statesville Maximum Security Prison visual arts, creative writing, political theory, history and more. PNAP’s mission to bring art education to these communities influenced the addition of an art gallery that will be a part of the 63rd house. “We’re both organizations that are committed to really following and developing the leadership of folks who are most impacted by the issues we’re trying
to challenge,” Châu said. Katebi said centering immigrant, refugee and working-class people in building this space is as a part of a larger mission to start actively imagining the world current and future communities want to live in. “For it to exist at all is one thing but for it to be ran and led by folks from the neighborhood, I think is really impactful for people who live here, to be able to see themselves in the development of their own community” Serrano said. “In the name of you know, of justice or liberation that we might never taste, this [63rd house] allows us to pass the torch,” Katebi said. Around 2.2 million dollars have been raised for the 63rd house, according to Katebi. She hopes to start construction over the summer and have the building finished within the next year and a half.
6 | News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
DePaul unveils Jarvis Student Center for Innovation and Collaboration By Erik Uebelacker Opinions Editor
The record-breaking donation from Eugene Jarvis and his wife, Sasha Gerritson, helped to establish the the Jarvis
Student Center for Innovation & Collaboration. The nearly 10,000-square foot space is located in the concourse of the DePaul Center at 1 E. Jackson Blvd. It includes a classroom, desktops usable to students,
and even a virtual reality lab. Jarvis is a an acclaimed arcade game designer, who was also named the first game designer in residence at DePaul’s CDM in 2008. Gerritson is a DePaul trustee and
music school alumnus, who now teaches musical theater and opera at Northeastern Illinois University.
SOFIAL LEAL | THE DEPAULIA
The Jarvis Student Center is located in the DePaul Center lower level concourse. Attendees celebrate the opening of the new CDM student center on Friday, May 20.
The Jarvis family and DePaul community membes sit front row at the ceremony.
Two students write “Thank you Jarvis” on one of the many whiteboards in the room. The student center is designd to be a collaborative space for CDM students.
President A. Gabriel Esteban and wife Josephine mingle with attendees.
Are you interested in helping us carry the weight of the world, or at the least the business-side of The DePaulia, on our shoulders? If so, apply for the position of Business Manager! Learn more by contacting Robin Boyd at rboyd5@depaul.edu
Patrons explore inside the new 10,000 square foot space for CDM students.
News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 7
PAT NABONG | CHICAGO SUN TIMES VIA AP
Buckner speaks at a press conference at Water Tower Place. He graduated from DePaul College of Law in 2012 and is the most recent candidate in the mayoral race.
BUCKNER, continued from front page he says is where the school instilled the value of helping others in him further. “I grew up a lot at DePaul and learned lots about life and Vincentian values,” Buckner said. “[Things like] doing more for others and being rigorous with fighting for justice and peace.” Now, Buckner hopes to take this fight to one of the biggest political stages in Illinois with a run for mayor. Ald. Ray Lopez (15th) and Chicago businessman Willie Wilson have also declared themselves thus far as candidates to challenge Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who is expected to announce her reelection campaign in June, next year. All three candidates, including Buckner, have publicly disagreed with strategies Lightfoot has employed to combat various issues currently plaguing the city. To Buckner, the root of many of ChiPHOTO COURTESY OF KAM BUCKNER cago’s current problems is a lack of di- Buckner works in the Legislative Black Caucus and state’s general assembly. rection from City Hall officials. “We’ve got great people in the city… also believes in legislation as a tool to ship skills and abilities, he was able to get the job done.” and some great opportunities,” Buckner make real impact. Last week, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a Buckner’s entrance into the race has said. “But [many] feel hamstrung be“ghost gun” bill. The brought to light two DUI convictions cause they don’t bill, which Buckner from his past, one in 2010 and one in [feel] that there’s helped push through 2019. Buckner told WTTW that he’s a plan.” the House, makes Illearned much from the convictions and Buckner aclinois the first state expects to face more questions about knowledges that in the Midwest to them as the campaign unfolds. gun violence outlaw the ownerSoon after Buckner’s campaign decis at the top of ship of a gun without laration, Lightfoot’s administration almany Chicagoa serial number. ready threw a punch in the state repreans’ minds right State Rep. Lamsentative’s direction. A spokesperson for now. The past ont Robinson Lightfoot said, “Being Mayor of Chicago two weeks have (D-5th) co-sponrequires the sort of toughness that Kam seen multiple sored the bill with Buckner hasn’t shown in his public life,” shootings in MilBuckner and cited according to the Chicago Tribune, lennium Park, Buckner’s leadership Buckner didn’t flinch when given an the shooting Chicago Mayoral Candidate and relational skills opportunity to respond to those quesof an unarmed as to what made it tioning his toughness. 13-year-old boy possible for the bill “I’m from the South Side of Chicaby Chicago Police to get through the go, and where I’m from, we don’t have on the West Side, House. to talk about how tough we are,” the and a mass shoot“It’s very hard to pass gun legisla6-foot-3, former Big Ten defensive lineing downtown on State Street. tion,” Robinson told The DePaulia. “The man said to The DePaulia. “You can see When it comes to public safety, NRA has a strong arm of legislators on it in the work that we do.” Buckner said he believes in community both sides of the aisle, but because of As Buckner’s former educator, Tuckpolicing approaches, where precedence Buckner’s relationships and his leaderer sees his compassion for others, couis placed in Chicagoan’s needs. Still, he
“I’m from the South Side of Chicago, and where I’m from, we don’t have to talk about how tough we are.”
Kam Buckner
pled with his pragmatic approach to governance, as what he believes makes Buckner a good mayoral candidate. “He genuinely cares about people and… finds practical ways to fix real-world problems,” Tucker said. “And so that’s why I support him… [He] has the ability to work within the system to make things happen.” With more than nine months until election day on Feb. 28, 2023, Buckner’s campaign has a long road ahead and will likely face several obstacles. Yet, one place in which Buckner feels he may have the upper hand is with his ability to connect with diverse communities. The district Buckner represents stretches from Chicago’s Gold Coast down towards the Indiana border and is home to people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. Buckner says representing the diverse district has helped him understand differing communities and is a big part of why he feels well equipped to lead the city. “We’ve got CEOs… and folks working two or three jobs to make ends meet,” Buckner said. “It’s forced me to be very balanced in a lot of respects.” Even with an incumbent with a historically low approval rating like Lightfoot’s, an obstacle for any challenger is name recognition, which Buckner understands will be a major focus of his campaign. But Buckner says when given a chance, he knows he’ll be able to connect with the people of Chicago. “What they’re going to figure out very quickly once they meet me is that they’ve known me their whole life,” Buckner said. “I’m the kid that grew up in their neighborhood, went to their church, [played] in their parks… went to school with their kids.” For Buckner, a relentless attitude on the campaign trail is key to making his message known and ultimately becoming the next mayor of Chicago. “We’re going to be everywhere,” Buckner said. “We want to talk to everybody.”
8 | News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
‘A safer environment for the public’
Increase of water rescues are on the horizon By Miranda Battaglia Contributing Writer
The weather is getting warmer, attracting Chicagoans to the water. While people enjoy the lakefront, there is a darker side to the summer as it’s the highest water rescue season in Chicago. Rescues are starting to go up as more Chicagoans are near the water. “I think the public should know that Lake Michigan, as beautiful as it is, people can enjoy it at the same time and know how dangerous it can be,” Chicago Police Marine Sergeant Mark Walsh said. Walsh said the number of people pulled or rescued from the water varies depending on the time of year and weather conditions. “Rescues can range anywhere from 30 to 40 per year,” he said. That number does not reflect the actual drowning victims. Twenty-five-year-old Grant Dean experienced a surprise rescue. He punched open a glass life ring box with his hand and tossed it to the man who was struggling in the Chicago River along Randolph St.on April 28 — in 45 degree Fahrenheit weather. “It was super scary and I didn’t know what to do,” Dean said. Dean said Chicago’s First Lady Cruises’ Emerald Lady, was in the water at the same time, but they weren’t able to back up fast enough to rescue the man. Dean said no one was walking or acting fast enough to help. That’s when he had to punch the glass life ring open, throw it and get the guy into the ring. “A few of us lifted the ring up onto the river tour boat,” he said. Emerald Lady’s boat called the police for rescue assistance when they saw the man in the river. “The river cop boats were able to speed up and get him off Emerald Lady,” Dean said. Chicago Police Department Marine unit M7 received the call and trans-
ferred him off the boat. The Marine Unit is made up of 30 police officers who cover three shifts seven days a week. Sometimes they don’t have enough officers to respond quickly. “We do our best, but more resources out there means a safer environment for the public,” Walsh said. There have been about 12 possible drowning deaths in the Great Lake in 2022 with six being in Lake Michigan, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance. Walsh said most drowning victims are accidental deaths. “When we recover a person from the water we try to preserve any kind of evidence we can to help the detectives determine the cause of death,” he said. Walsh went on to say several boating accidents occur during the summer. “Most are minor however we have had boating accidents that have had fatalities, most are alcohol related,” he said. Grant’s older sister, 28-year-old Kendra Dean of Streeterville, describes him as loyal and honest. “He did the right thing in helping that person,” she said. “You are exactly where you need to be at any given moment. Had he left for the train 19 minutes earlier or later, he wouldn’t have been around to help.” What compelled Grant Dean to stop that day was because it was so cold out. “The part in the city, and the timing of it, right before Ogilvie train station,” he said. “It was super quiet. Not many people around, which made it scary.” Walsh said reasons vary as to why people jump in the water. During the summer,Chicagoans may be intoxicated near the water; there are also mental health related issues. “People will also jump in to attempt suicide,” he said. “The public often will not hear of this because the news media usually will not report it.” Dean didn’t think the fall was accidental due to the way it was in the river. Some people try to commit suicide by jumping into water, so much so that
PHOTO COURTESY OF GRANT DEAN
Grant Dean punched the glass barrier of the life preserver in a matter of seconds on Apr. 28. bridges like the DuSable Bridge, otherwise known as the “Bridge of Sighs,” on the Chicago River is known for people attempting to commit suicide. “He had to have purposely gone in that part,” Dean said. “He could have died of hypothermia.” Walsh said the scariest part of their job is facing the waves in a time crunch to rescue somebody. “I feel it’s when you have to go out on the boat on Lake Michigan when the waves are 10-12 feet high to rescue someone,” he said. Dean said he never saw the man or learned who he was. “That’s the thing I started crying about,” Dean said. “Because I had no idea why he was there, who he was, and I don’t think I’ll ever find out.” Dean said he wants to know who the
person he saved was so he can know if they are okay and what led them to being in the water. “It was just crazy,” said Dean. “It all happened so fast. The frustrating part is I don’t know who he is. Not frustrating. It’s just like I’ll never know. He never said anything. I think he was just in total shock.” Many enjoy time on water with friends, family, and for relaxation but boating incidents are to be expected and watched out for as people come to Chicago’s beaches. “The most rewarding part of my job is when we are diving and find a drowning victim that has been missing for days,” Walsh said. “So we can give the family of the victim some closure.”
GRAPHIC | KIERSTEN RIEDFORD
News. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 9 CURFEW, continued from front page
pushed by lawmakers in hopes of curbing gun violence in Illinois. Some Chicagoans question the effectiveness of a curfew. Curfew laws have been in place in Chicago since 1992, but research shows these laws have continuously been proven ineffective. During Friday’s press conference, Lightfoot repeatedly referred to activists and Chicagoans’ criticism of the new curfew laws as “nonsense” because they have been implemented in Chicago for decades. In a letter addressed to the Corporation Counsel, the ACLU presented their concerns about the new policy changes and questioned the legality of the executive order. “We have serious legal concerns about these announced policy changes… [they] suggest an attempt to govern by press conference instead of through the democratic process and the rule of law,” the letter stated. The ACLU told The DePaulia they have yet to receive an answer. Yohnka argues Lightfoot’s new policy is targeting young people of color. When raucous crowds of white people gather to celebrate the victory of a Cubs game or festivals like Lollapalooza, which kicks off July 28, they are not banned from the area after 6 p.m, according to Yohnka. “Why is this different?” Yohnka said. “The emergency that the Mayor and police Superintendent and others are saying they are addressing is because large crowds of people are gathering in a park.” In the letter to the Corporation Counsel, the ACLU argued that when violence erupts in the South and West sides of the city, minors are not banned from being in the neighborhood after 6 p.m., but when a teen is shot downtown, City Hall takes immediate action. “You are literally going to pull police officers off the street in communities that have suffered a rash of gun violence to protect downtown,” Yohnka said. “This is a city hall that is more interested in protecting the folks downtown than in neighborhoods across the city.”
PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER | THE DEPAULIA
Chicago Police Department officers stake out near “the Bean” in Millennium Park on Thursday evening to enforce the 6 p.m. curfew. Some are asking what effect this will have on groups who already feel marginalized by law enforcement or the city’s governmental bodies, and if they’ll take these new policies seriously. “People are much more likely to comply with rules and policies when they believe the government is working for them, and they believe in the law itself,” said Megan Alderden, the director of the criminology program at DePaul. “Kids who are already feeling disenfranchised or who are isolated from larger society…, and who may no longer see the government working on their behalf, may be less likely to…follow those kinds of policies.” Alderden believes implementing a policy in response to a high profile event is a temporary solution to a much larger problem. She said decreasing the spaces young people are allowed to be could be sending the wrong message to the city’s youth.
“You’re slowly removing and creating spaces that kids can actually be and that creates this sense of who is a welcome person within the city.” In the executive order, it says the Superintendent will instruct officers to use “de-escalation and dispersal tools regularly employed to educate minors aboul curfew rules and to seek voluntary compliance.” If a minor does not comply with the curfew, then they may be taken into custody and a parent or guardian will be notified. Both Alderden and Yohnka believe the energy being spent on curfew enforcement could be better spent working on the relationship the police department has with citizens. “To really get to a reduction in violence, [you must] engage in meaningful reform and accountability from the police to build that trust,” Yohnka said. “Not through these kneejerk press conference answers.”
Yohnka said building trust with police officers and Chicago’s communities is the best way to reduce the rising crime and gun violence in the city, but Chicago has to take the necessary measures through extensive reform to build that trust. Some Chicagoans disagree with Lightfoot’s decision to implement a new curfew for minors, believing it is a quick solution to the city’s increase in gun violence downtown, and that it will not be effective in reducing crime. “If Lightfoot wants to meaningfully address gun violence, she can divert some of the massive CPD budget towards education, after school programs…and invest economically in the neighborhoods that are most victimized by gang violence,” Vana said. “But it’s a long-term investment and long-term investments don’t make for snappy reelection speeches.”
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10 | Nation & World. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Nation & World
Turkey blocks Finland, Sweden’s historic NATO bid
MAYA OCLASSEN | THE DEPAULIA
By Jackson Healy Nation & World Editor
In a stark shift in foreign policy, Finland and Sweden — both of which have long maintained neutrality during armed conflict — formally submitted on Wednesday applications to join military alliance NATO in response to Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. However, while the Nordic countries’ bids for NATO membership have been almost universally well-received among existing NATO countries, Turkish President Recep Erdogan has placed his country in lone public opposition to their entry. As non-member states can only join NATO if all 30 existing members support their admission, Turkey’s approval is needed for either country to join. Turkey’s reasoning for this opposition has hinged on claims that both Sweden and Finland have provided safe harbor for the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), a Kurdish militant group designated by Turkey, the EU and the U.S. as a terrorist organization. “In many ways, as far as support for the PKK or the housing of accused PKK militants goes, Turkey’s grievance is probably stronger with Sweden than it is with Finland, but it has some grievances with both,” said Erik Tillman, an assistant political science professor at DePaul. “Over the years, it’s submitted lists of people to both countries that it’s demanded to be extradited back to Turkey on accusations of terrorism — and, of course, both countries have refused.” A number of international experts believe Turkey’s aims extend beyond concerns over the PKK, though. Colin Wall, a research associate with the Europe, Russia and Eurasia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, suggests that Erdogan may be using NATO’s consensus-based decision making as leverage against other NATO member states. “This is not the first time that President Erdogan has seized a moment like this to try and extract concessions from the West,” Wall said. “Essentially, what’s happening here
is that Erdogan is playing an irresponsible game. He’s seizing a moment where NATO, the U.S. and Europe need something, and he’s in a position to block it in exchange for extracting concessions on something.” Such a compromise could involve a renewed trade of U.S. fighter jets to Turkey, which was halted in 2019 after Turkey purchased Russian-made S-400 missile systems. Both the White House and Congress have recently expressed tentative support for this following Turkey’s support for Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion. Additionally, Tillman suggests Erdogan’s opposition to NATO expansion likely serves as a bid for increased domestic support, as Turkey’s ongoing financial crisis has contributed to declining approval of Erdogan and his ruling political party, the Justice and Development Party (AKP). “Part of this is undoubtedly also probably being driven by the domestic audience,” Tillman said. “Here’s a chance for him to stand up for Turkish interests and to invoke the kind of anti-terrorism mantra that plays well with large slabs of the Turkish electorate, and especially his supporters and the voters he needs to keep on board.” Ultimately though, Wall suggests that Turkey will likely concede its opposition to Finnish and Swedish entry into NATO following a series of negotiations. “This fits into a general pattern of tensions between Turkey and Europe and the U.S.,” Wall said. “Most of the reports we’ve seen from NATO figures, the Biden administration and European leaders has been this pretty palpable sense of confidence that they’re going to be able to bring Turkey around, and I do share that sense of confidence.” Even as Turkey currently stands in the way of both Nordic countries’ accession into NATO, the mere act of applying for membership defies longstanding traditions of neutrality in both Finland and Sweden. “In historical terms, it’s really quite momentous,” Wall said. “From a symbolic point of view, this is really quite an incredible moment for both countries.”
JOHANNA GERON | REUTERS POOL
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg displays documents as Sweden and Finland applied for membership in Brussels, Belgium, Wednesday May 18, 2022. During the 1940s, Finland lost 11 per- for the country. cent of its territory to the USSR as a result “Its neutrality is much more historical, of the Winter War and subsequent Contin- going back all the way to the end of the Nauation War. Those territories remain under poleonic Wars,” Tillman said. “And so, you Russian control to this day, and the contin- hear some people say that Swedish neutralued threat of Russian coercion has main- ity has almost kind of become a part of its tained tension between Helsinki and Mos- identity.” cow ever since. While Swedish and Finnish public opin“The characterization of Finnish for- ion of NATO membership has remained eign policy has always been pragmatic and low for much of the post-Cold War era, both geared towards maintaining good relations countries have seen overwhelming support with Russia,” Tillman said. “Historically, it for membership following Russia’s full-scale was organized around the belief that this invasion of Ukraine beginning in February. was necessary because, as Finland experi“They clearly — and there’s just no enced during World War II, it couldn’t really doubt about this — they’ve clearly become count on any promises of support from the aware that the Russian approach is not to West if it were attacked by Russia.” respect boundaries and not to respect neuIn the case of Sweden, the country suc- trality,” said Dick Farkas, a political science cessfully maintained official military neu- professor at DePaul. “So it seems to me like trality for over 200 years until 2009, when what they’re doing is compellingly logical.” it entered into a mutual self-defense treaty Erdogan held phone calls on Saturday with the European Union. Sweden has in- with both Finland and Sweden’s leaders over termittently provided minor support for concerns over harboring terrorist organizaNATO and EU battlegroups throughout the tions, and discussions remain ongoing. 21st century, but formal membership into NATO would act as a significant escalation
Nation &World briefs
Nation & World. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 11 Content written by Jackson Healy | THE DEPAULIA
78,000 pounds of infant formula WHO chief warns the Covid-19 arrives in US as shortage continues pandemic ‘most certainly not over’ Seventy-eight thousand pounds of specialty infant formula — enough to fill more than 500,000 baby bottles — arrived in Indianapolis Sunday. The first of several planned shipments from Europe to the United States in an attempt to address a nationwide shortage leaves families struggling to feed their children. Dubbed “Operation Fly Formula,” the ongoing effort to relieve the formula shortage utilizes Air Force planes under authorization from President Joe Biden, as no commercial flights were available. Director of the White House National Economic Council told CNN’s “State of the Union” Sunday that the flight will provide 15 percent of much needed specialty medical grade formula, and that parents should expect an increase in available formula “as early as this week.” About 1.5 million eight-ounce bottles of Nestle Health Science Alfamino Infant, Alfamino Junior and Gerber Good Start Extensive HA formula are expected to reach the U.S. this week, according to the White House. All three formulas are hypoallergenic for children with cow’s milk protein allergies. Indianapolis was chosen as the destination for these shipments as the city is a major Nestle distribution hub. According to an administration official on site, the formula will travel on FedEx semi-tractor-trailers to a Nestle distribution center, where it will undergo standard quality control checks before disseminating the formula to pharmacies, hospitals and doctor’s offices. “We have significantly increased the amount of our formulas available to consumers by ramping up production and
MICHAEL CONROY | ASSOCIATED PRESS Crew members of a C-17 unload a plane load of baby formula at the Indianapolis International Airport in Indianapolis, Sunday, May 22, 2022.
accelerating general product availability to retailers and online, as well as through hospitals and home health care for those most vulnerable,” Nestle said in a release. Operation Fly Formula authorizes the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services to obtain infant formula overseas that meets U.S. health and safety standards in order to increase product on shelves, according to the USDA. The Biden administration has struggled to address the nationwide formula shortage. The crisis follows the closure of an Abbot formula manufacturing plant tied to several infant hospitalizations, including two deaths. Deese told CNN Sunday that the U.S. needs to increase the number of formula providers “so that no individual company has this much control over supply chains.”
World Health Organization DirectorGeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus asserted Sunday that the Covid-19 pandemic is “most certainly not over,” even as reported cases have declined since the peak of January’s omicron wave. Tedros’s statement came at the opening of the WHO’s annual meeting. He also noted that almost one billion people in lower-income countries still haven’t been vaccinated and that “declining testing and sequencing means we are blinding ourselves to the evolution of the virus.” According to the WHO’s weekly report on the pandemic released Thursday, the number of new Covid-19 cases appears to have plateaued following weeks of decline since late March. Additionally, the report states that overall weekly deaths have dropped. Noting that 60 percent of the global population is now vaccinated, Tedros cautioned that “it’s not over anywhere until it’s over everywhere.” “Reported cases are increasing in almost 70 countries in all regions, and this is in a world in which testing rates have plummeted,” he continued. Africa — the continent with the lowest vaccination coverage — is currently seeing an increase in reported deaths, he said. Only 57 countries have vaccinated 70 percent of its people or greater. Nearly all of them are wealthy, he said. Tedros noted “insufficient political commitment to roll out vaccines” and lacking “operational or financial capacity” as factors in slowed global vaccination efforts.
SALVATORE DI NOLFI | KEYSTONE VIA AP Director General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus speaks in Geneva, Switzerland, Sunday, May 22, 2022.
“In all, we see vaccine hesitancy driven by misinformation and disinformation,” he said. “The pandemic will not magically disappear, but we can end it.” The United States has experienced over 110,000 confirmed new cases a day and a 20 percent increase in hospitalizations over the past two weeks as of Sunday, according to The New York Times. Some health experts have expressed concerns over recent days that the U.S. may be entering its sixth wave. The Biden administration reopened CovidTests.gov for a third round of free Covid-19 at-home rapid tests May 16. U.S. households can order eight free tests online. That same day, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance to endorse Covid-19 testing for all domestic travelers.
Judge: Covid asylum restrictions must continue on border By Kevin McGill & Elliot Spagat Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Pandemic-related restrictions on migrants seeking asylum on the southern border must continue, a judge ruled Friday in an order blocking the Biden administration’s plan to lift them early next week. The ruling was just the latest instance of a court derailing the president’s proposed immigration policies along the U.S. border with Mexico. The Justice Department said the administration will appeal, but the ruling virtually ensures that restrictions will not end as planned on Monday. A delay would be a blow to advocates who say rights to seek asylum are being trampled, and a relief to some Democrats who fear that a widely anticipated increase in illegal crossings would put them on the defensive in an already difficult midterm election year. In Tijuana, Mexico, Yesivet Evangelina Aguilar, 34, cupped her face in her hands and sobbed when she learned of the decision from an Associated Press reporter. “I feel like there is no hope left,” said Aguilar, who fled the Mexican state of Guerrero nearly a year ago after her brother was killed. “It feels so bad.” Aguilar was blocked by U.S. authorities from applying for asylum when she and her 10-year-old daughter went to the Tijuana-San Diego port of entry nine months ago. On Friday, she was lying in a tent at a Tijuana shelter where scores of migrants are camped. Some have been there for months or years. Aguilar’s life in waiting has been not only tedious but dangerous. On Thursday night, a fellow migrant was shot in the
DARIO LOPEZ-MILLS | ASSOCIATED PRESS
A man looks back into Mexico after he crossed the Rio Grande river into the United States as he waits for the arrival of Border Patrol agents in Eagle Pass, Texas. Friday, May 20, 2022. neck by a stray bullet from a shootout out- the case that they would suffer harm if the side the shelter. restrictions end. Migrants have been expelled more than The judge cited what he said were the 1.9 million times since March 2020 under government’s own predictions that ending Title 42, a public health provision that de- the restrictions would likely increase border nies them a chance to request asylum under crossings threefold, to as many as 18,000 U.S. law and international treaty on grounds daily. That, he added, would result in more of preventing the spread of COVID-19. migrants being processed in congregate U.S. District Judge Robert Summerhays settings where contagious disease can be in Lafayette, Louisiana, ordered that the re- spread. “The record also includes evidence strictions stay in place while a lawsuit led by supporting the Plaintiff States’ position that Arizona and Louisiana — and now joined such an increase in border crossings will inby 22 other states — plays out in court. crease their costs for healthcare reimburseSummerhays sided with the states in ments and education services. These costs ruling that President Joe Biden’s adminis- are not recoverable,” Summerhays wrote. tration failed to follow administrative proThe case goes next to the New Orlecedures requiring public notice and time to ans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, gather public comment on the plan to end which has ruled against key Biden adminthe restrictions. And he said the states made istration policies in the past. The court is
dominated by Republican nominees, including six nominated by former President Donald Trump, who also appointed Summerhays. Title 42 largely affects people from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, many of whom have been waiting in Mexican border towns after being denied the right to seek asylum by the U.S. government. Mexico has agreed to accept migrants from those three Central American countries who were turned back by the U.S. and last month also started taking in limited numbers of Cubans and Nicaraguans. Title 42 is the second major Trump-era policy to deter asylum at the Mexican border that was jettisoned by Biden, only to be revived by a Trump-appointed judge. An American Civil Liberties Union attorney derided the decision. “Title 42 may only be used for public health purposes, but the States that brought this lawsuit appear to care only about COVID restrictions when they involve asylum seekers and are using the case as a transparent attempt to manage the border,” said Lee Gelernt. “That hypocrisy should not be rewarded.” Republican members of Congress hailed the ruling. “The Courts are once again getting it right,” said North Dakota Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer. Even some in Biden’s party supported keeping the pandemic restriction in place. “Today’s decision does not change the fact that there is a crisis at the border and there must be a detailed plan that can be implemented before Title 42 is lifted,” said Sen. Mark Kelley, an Arizona Democrat who is facing a tough reelection challenge.
12 | Opinions. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Opinions Normalization of fatphobia
ART BY KIERSTEN RIEDFORD
Commentary from family members affect us more than they realize By Vanessa R amos La DePaulia Multimedia Editor
Fatphobia is the fear of fat and obese bodies; many Latinos have normalized commentary about their families bodies, lifestyle, what they eat, the amount of exercise they do and how they dress. But some do not realize how these comments affect their mental health and how they can create bad eating habits for some people. “This is a brutal stigma and it is also normalized; people take for granted that these discriminatory practices towards fat people are normal and justified,” said Alejandra Oyosa, a feminist and anti-fatphobia advocate told The LA News. DePaul sophomore Victoria Ramirez explained how an overemphasis on body image played a role in her own upbringing. “When my older sister was younger, she was quite thin so my grandma would insist on feeding her a lot because she thought she ‘looked sickly,’” Ramirez said. “My sister and I have grown up with those comments in our head and knowing that other people are observing how we look and judging us for it, makes us hyper aware of that.” There are many ways fatphobia starts in a family but one of the main reasons is generational trauma; trauma experiences endured by family members, causing psychological and physiological effects that are generationally passed down. “I think fatphobia in Latino culture is most definitely a generational trauma experience,” said former DePaul student Ava Solis. “It can go one of two ways; younger generations can overcome that
negative experience and try to prevent it for future generations by being more open minded or not making body image a key part of a child’s life, or they will unfortunately fall into the circle and contribute to the negativity.” Fatphobic remarks not only derive from your parents, but also aunts, uncles, friends and families can make comments because they assume that it will help you out in the long run. They also make these comments lighthearted or like it’s a nice piece of advice. My mom has a bad habit in trying to sugar coat her comments about my body, asking if I want to get a personal trainer or start pushing me to get into juice cleanses. “The Latin culture is not like ‘oh no you look so fat’ — it is pretty smooth and they criticize,” said Colombian psychologist Victoria Quintero. “Sometimes you think they are criticizing you because it is polite and say those things are not fitting anymore and say not to worry. I’m going to help you get skinny so I’m going to buy you pills or tell you what not to do or eat because it will make you get fat... It sounds like love words, but of course they are not worried about your health, but more of how you look.” It is very common to reflect fears onto your own family. Many comments about your appearance can be reflected towards others when it’s something you fear or the changes you wish you could go through, and they push these ideas of having a specific body time and image. The normalization of these negative comments are reflected by one’s own insecurities. “What I’ve learned based on my family is that the people making these
“Sometimes you think they are criticizing you because it is polite and say those things... It sounds like love words, but of course they are not worried about your health, but more of how you look.” Victoria Quintero Psychologist
comments are reflecting their own insecurities and pinning them onto you,” Solis said. “Being fat is not a bad thing whatsoever and modern day beauty standards are far beyond unrealistic. It is normal to have body fat and there is nothing wrong with enjoying your food and eating whatever you want.” Many families do not realize the problems that they can cause with comments on people’s physical appearances. They assume that being fat is because people are lazy and not the possible health issues that some can deal with. I personally have been struggling with a hip impingement for three years and my parents overlooked my injury since they thought I was just being lazy. Quintero says that this is the case with her cousin from Canada, who routinely faces judgment from her family about her weight. Her aunt would make cautionary comments about the kinds of food she ate. “Here, the food will make you fatter if you don’t protect yourself,” Quintero
said. “She started her diet and it was difficult for her because they ignored that she could have other issues that might affect her body. For example metabolism issues and thyroids, and they would think that the solution would be to use waist trainers, taking pills, and eating less.” It is very difficult to identify what problems are the root of fatphobic remarks, but we can see how it is something very normalized in Latino culture. Family members often think their comments are helpful. There is usually not bad intention behind it, but with time it can affect many people’s mindset and create a divide between their relationship with food and one’s body. “Your beauty and worth isn’t determined by others’ view of your body or eating habits,” Ramirez said. “You are in charge of yourself and yourself alone, so don’t let anyone else influence you in a negative way.”
The opinions in this section do not necessarially reflect those of The DePaulia staff.
Opinions. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 13
Student media should count for experiential learning
EMILY SOTO | THE DEPAULIA
Members of The DePaulia staff prepare the latest issue of the paper in their office at the concourse of 1 E Jackson Blvd. Editors work at the office every Friday and Sunday during the school year.
Student media is the most realistic experience for journalism and other communication students. Unfortunately, it doesn’t qualify for DePaul’s experiential learning. Two editors of The DePaulia explain why that should be rectified. By Erik Uebelacker Opinions Editor
Journalism is a major that heavily relies on real-world experience, rather than classroom performance, to find success after graduation. I realized this as early as sophomore year. I started tweeting sports news and writing blog posts to get my reps and improve my writing skills. Eventually, I found my way into freelancing. I started hosting video interviews for a YouTube sports channel and “covered” politics for a small news site. I put “covered” in quotes because I didn’t actually cover politics; I wrote news stories based on existing information from larger outlets. I did no original reporting, and never talked to a source. This held true for my first official internship, when I wrote for a website specializing in women’s sports. Again, I didn’t have to talk to sources, and wrote stories using existing coverage only. When I started working for The DePaulia my junior year, what was expected of me drastically changed. For the first time in my life, I had to learn how to be a real journalist. None of my prior experiences held me to the same standard of sourcing, vetting and accuracy as The DePaulia did — and still does. It was the first time that I actually learned how to contact sources for a story, the first time I had to deal with real deadlines and the first time that any of my potential failures truly impacted others. It’s the most realistic newsroom experience you can get as a student. That’s why I was shocked when I learned that my ongoing experience with The DePaulia was not an acceptable “experiential learning experience” for CMN
394: Making the Most of Your Communication Internship. What was deemed acceptable was my work with the YouTube channel. Don’t get me wrong, it was interesting and certainly useful. But I didn’t have any deadlines, had very limited interaction with my team and worked completely on my own schedule. It was a great experience for a busy college student, but not the most realistic one when entering the workplace. I was lucky that I had this opportunity to fall back on. Several of my peers have struggled to find ample opportunities to fulfill this requirement while balancing schoolwork and their devotion to student media outlets. Many have forgone other internship possibilities to make meaningful impacts in DePaul student publications. For me, it was merely an inconvenience. It would have been far easier to use a more structured, traditional journalism job for my experiential learning credit. The course’s assignments and reflections were more geared towards this kind of experience. Considering The DePaulia has been the most realistic reporting opportunity I’ve had to date, it doesn’t make sense to me why this should be overlooked as “experiential learning.” Thus far, my time at The DePaulia has prepared me better for the workplace than my other opportunities. Many journalism internships and job listings cite student media participation as a requirement. It’s a significant commitment, and an important one at that. As far as journalism is concerned, student media is real-world experience, and it should be treated as such.
By Amber Stoutenborough Arts & Life Editor
I have had a lot of real-world experience. From military training to multiple customer service jobs, I am not short on knowledge that will aid me in adult life. I have spent the majority of my college life collecting different real-world experiences from other students, and yet when the time came for my experiential learning credit, which is required to graduate at DePaul, I fell short. With the pandemic canceling my internship in 2020, ROTC occupying majority of freshman sophomore and junior year and working odd-end jobs throughout to survive, finding ‘experiential learning’ was not my first priority — until I found out I wasn’t going to graduate on time because of it. As the Arts & Life editor at DePaulia for my senior year, I spend roughly 25-30 hours a week working to cultivate my seven-page section to perfection. From writing pitches, connecting with writers, editing articles, collecting images and art and writing for the section myself, being an editor trains you for a professional journalism job. Not to mention my Fridays and Sundays each week are spent in the office; it leaves little time for outside work besides my service job to pay rent, as well as being a full-time student. Student media is valued strongly within the DePaul journalism community, and yet you never learn what is needed in the real world without it- it’s shocking it’s not considered for experiential learning. The knowledge and practice of weekly and daily deadlines along with working with peers, buffing up your writing portfolio should be more than considered for a
credit based on hands-on learning. The perspective of expecting students to balance an internship on top of normal class work and student media completely neglects the students who have to pay for their own rent, especially since most internships are unpaid — it’s setting them up for failure. Having to choose between student media and getting paid versus unpaid internships or possible freelancing is a choice people who have their parents pay for their rent, tuition and groceries can make. If DePaul is to boast such a high number of internship opportunities, then they should accommodate for the entire population of students and not just business majors using student center crew as their experiential learning credit. Even random classes that fit the requirement of “writing domain” are allowed to count for experiential learning. But student media, where we meet up with our advisor to improve our newspaper each week, is not. As an award winning school newspaper, The DePaulia, as well as the other DePaul student media, should be credited as real-world experience. This way, they won’t have to pay over $3,000 for a class while working at their unpaid internship to start their careers. Because of the cost of living and time commitment, I have to take my experiential learning over the summer since The DePaulia doesn’t count. The burden of trying to balance a job and The DePaulia alongside school makes it harder to find an unpaid internship accessible. Instead of finishing school with my graduation, I will be finishing with paying for one last class to make sure I have the knowledge to be a ‘journalist’ and deserving of a bachelor’s degree.
Focus 14 | Focus. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
When mom is in town: Summer House Santa Monica 1954 N. Halsted St.
This California-style restaurant has a warm, sunny interior that makes winter in Chicago a little more bearable (at least for a couple hours) and the food is good. Its menu has something for everyone, although it’s a little pricey for college students, hence why it’s on this list.
Blue Door Farm Stand 2010 N. Halsted St.
Relaxed-but-not-too casual, this updated-farmhouse style restaurant is filled with plants and mini watering cans. On the menu, you’ll find seasonal veggie dishes, along with traditional Midwestern fare like cheese curds, and fried chicken sliders.
Mo’s Asian Bistro 1353 W. Fullerton Ave.
The DePaulia’s rest With record inflation, a labor market down and Covid-19 cases ticking upwards, Lincoln Park cafes and restaurants are still hanging on By Josephine Stratman Focus Editor
During the pandemic, government-mandated shutdowns, layoffs, safety protocols and an uncertain economy forced Chicago’s food industry to be innovative and nimble to survive. Now, despite rising Covid-19 cases, the industry is clawing its way back to some semblance of normalcy. “Things are coming back, but they’re not to the level they were before,” said Sandra Holl, owner of Floriole Cafe and Bakery in Lincoln Park. “And there’s just different challenges that are present now.” The labor market has presented a challenge: Holl said Floriole currently employs 13 people — and hired three more just this past week. This is just half of the business’ pre-pandemic size. “We are [getting] half the revenue, but we have half the staff and so I think we’re doing okay,” she said. “We’re not right side up quite yet, but we’re on our way to being right side up and being sustainable, which, to me, is being profitable without people losing their minds.” The inability to hire qualified workers is one of the most critical and widespread issues currently affecting businesses, according to a report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. When businesses don’t have enough employees, they have to reduce hours, scale down operations, or in a worst-case scenario, close. The hospitality industry, which includes restaurants, is the most affected. There are approximately half as many available workers for every open job, according to the report. There were a record high 11.3 million vacant job openings in the U.S. in March and 4.75 million more open jobs today than people looking for work. Holl has owned the bakery for 16 years, and has operated out of the Lincoln Park location for 13 years. The bakery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. “I feel like we’re lucky,” she said. “We had enough time under our belt to end and we were in a financially sound place going into the pandemic that allowed us to get through it…
I can’t imagine if we were under water beforehand or in a precarious place. It would have been just that much crazier. It already is crazy to get through the pandemic with a business with navigating so many things, that I think as small business owners, we’re not qualified to navigate and yet we’re forced to figure things out.” Crain’s, using data from food and beverage analytics firm Datassential, reported that roughly 280 restaurants closed in the fourth quarter of 2021 — just when Covid-19 booster vaccines and a bump from holiday business may have seemed to bring on a return to normal after nearly two years of lockdowns, quarantining and social distancing. Just 23 restaurants reportedly closed in the fourth quarter of 2019, the last quarter before the pandemic, according to Crain’s. On top of that, a disrupted supply chain and high inflation rates mean supply hiccups and high prices for restaurants. Inflation in the U.S. hit near 40-year highs this spring, forcing restaurant and cafe owners to make sometimes tough choices. According to the National Restaurant Association, wholesale food costs were up 7.9 percent in 2021. Hourly labor costs were up 8.6 percent. The Midwestern region saw the strongest menu-price gains between April 2021 and April 2022 in the nation, at 9.3 percent. Luis Zurias, owner of Olor Coffee Bar, located at 1013 W. Webster Ave., said the high prices have made it impossible to keep menu prices down. Zurias takes pride in offering quality products, like organic milk. He believes it sets his business apart from bigger chains like Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. “For example, for [organic milk], I was paying five or six dollars,” Zurias said. “Now, I’m paying 10 dollars. Ten dollars. I didn’t charge more at first, but I got to eventually, with everything going up.” Zurias had long dreamed of opening a cafe. He moved to the U.S. from Venezuela — which faced an extreme inflation crisis itself — nearly four years ago. He started the business last December with no money in the bank and has since nurtured a flourishing business with three employees. One day, he dreams of expanding to other cities like San Francisco or Boston. “I love what I’m doing,” Zurias said. “You probably see, I
A close walk from the Lincoln Park campus, this restaurant is a DePaul staple. The regular specials and deals mean mom will feel like she’s getting bang for her buck when she’s treating you and your roommates, and the sushi, noodles and fried rice options will give you leftovers for lunch the next day.
Ann Sathers
909 W. Belmont Ave. The Swedish-American diner is a North Side staple; your parents probably remember coming here years ago. Come for the cinnamon buns — giant, sweet sticky and delicious. The restaurant is cheery and cute with yellow and blue tile accents.
COURTESY OF SANDRA HOLL
Employees serve up baked goods behind the bakery counter at Floriole, 1220 W. Webster Ave. in Lincoln Park.
Focus. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 15
taurant guide
Dinner with friends: Del Seoul
2568 N. Clark St. Right on Clark St., this Korean fusion restaurant is good for both takeout and dining in. Their Korean tacos are especially good, as well as their loaded fries topped with poutine or kimchi fries. The lively spot is perfect for a bite after an intramural softball game or a long lakefront walk.
Bolivar and Lincoln 3349 N. Sheffield Ave.
This small Venezualan restaurant is located right on the edge of Wrigleyville on Sheffield Ave. It serves up arepas filled with a variety of toppings. A favorite is the Pabellon, which contains caramelized plantains, plenty of stewed shredded beef, beans, and cheese. The interior is casual, which is good because you’ll probably spill as you eat. It’s worth it.
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba JOSEPHINE STRATMAN | THE DEPAULIA
“I love what I’m doing,” Luis Zurias, owner of Olor Coffee Bar, 1013 W. Webster Ave, said. “You probably see, I work every single day. I wake up at 5 a.m. and I go to bed by nine to ten p.m. every single day. I just sleep seven eight hours, cook my own food. But I love what I do. I’m sacrificing now.” work every single day. I wake up at 5 a.m. and I go to bed by 9 to 10 p.m. every single day. I just sleep seven, eight hours, cook my own food. But I love what I do. I’m sacrificing now.” At Mo’s Asian Bistro, located at 1353 W. Fullerton Ave., high produce prices meant higher prices for customers, too. Mo’s is known for its dinner and lunch specials, sushi and noodles. It offers to-go and carryout options. “Everything goes up [in price],” owner David Mo said. “It’s like, ‘Oh, by surprise all my produce and other stuff goes up 30 percent, sometimes 40 percent.’” Mo said he raised his prices around 20 percent to keep pace, but also notices fewer customers walking through the doors. He also was hit by labor issues — he used to have 10 employees, and now, he has five. “Everyone wants things to be like before, and we’re just not able to operate like before,” Holl said.
Hangover helpers: The Bagelers
2461 N. Lincoln Ave.
Open daily until 3pm, the Bagelers Coffeehouse is great for grabbing breakfast or lunch to go, or for sitting down to do homework, but then spending your study sesh scrolling TikTok. The kettle-boiled bagels have a firm crust with a soft and doughy inside, and come plain with butter or cream cheese or signature sandwiches.
Honorable mentions Batter and Berries Molly’s Cupcakes Sapori Trattoria Pequods Pizza Devil Dogs
Chicago Bagel Authority 953 W. Armitage Ave., and 955 W. Belmont Ave
This spot is great for a cheaper sandwich or takeout option that doesn’t make you feel gross after you eat it. Try the Dank ‘n’ Eggs, which is scrambled egg, bacon, roast beef, smoked cheddar cheese, american cheese, honey mustard, salt & pepper on an everything bagel.
2024 N Halsted St.
Spanish food so authentic Spain’s Bureau of Tourism actually certified Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! with a “Restaurants from Spain” certification. The catalan-style “crystal bread” is scrumptious, but since it’s tapas, you don’t have to limit yourself to just that. With a group of friends, paella and a pitcher of sangria, their happy hour is one of the best in the city.
Athenian Room Bacci Noodles in the Pot Chengdu Impression
Floriole Cafe and Bakery 1220 W Webster Ave
For a quick breakfast and coffee or a long mid-morning catch-up with an old friend, Floriole has a nice selection of cookies and croissants. They have outdoor seating, too.
16 | La DePaulia. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
La DePaulia
Organizadores comunitarios se unen para planear la construcción de la Casa 63
FOTO CORTESÍA DE STUDIO GANG | BLUE TIN PRODUCTION
By Jacqueline Cardenas Jefa de Redacción, La DePaulia
Hace algunos veranos, los organizadores comunitarios de Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) se reunieron alrededor de un estacionamiento vacío en Chicago Lawn y trajeron cantera de plantas, taburetes y colocaron astillas de madera en un esfuerzo por reactivar el espacio. Mientras Jasmine Serrano, la organizadora de salud de la SWOP, recogía basura en el lote, notó que las personas del vecindario le decían enojados que se fuera porque pensaban que estaba tratando de remolcar sus autos. Serrano explicó que su intención no era invadir su zona, sino crear un espacio comunitario. Mientras se desarrollaba la interacción, una mujer que vivía en la cuadra se acercó a Serrano y le dijo: “Vaya, ya era hora de que alguien hiciera algo por nosotros”. Atónita por su comentario, Serrano sintió que demostraba la falta de agencia que la gente sentía en su propio vecindario. Para Serrano, esta mujer es la persona más poderosa de la cuadra. “¿Quién es más poderoso que alguien que vive allí, tiene una casa y sus hijos van a la escuela de aquí?” Serrano dijo. “Ella vio que no tenía ningún poder. Y entonces, es ese tipo de pensamiento que creo que necesita ser agitado, y ahora, ella no estaba equivocada al pensar eso. Pero es solo un profundo deseo mío de que la gente entienda su poder.” Crear un sentido de autonomía para los niños, adolescentes y adultos de los vecindarios de Chicago ayudó a Hoda Katebi, Jasmine Serrano, Timmy Châu y Devonta Boston para planear la construcción de la Casa 63. La Casa 63 será un espacio comunitario multifuncional y un estudio de fabricación en Chicago Lawn. Encapsulará los objetivos comunes que cada organizador comunitario desea lograr. Esta idea fue propuesta por Hoda Katebi, propietaria de Blue Tin
Production, una empresa de fabricación de ropa que tiene como objetivo abolir la explotación de los trabajadores en los talleres clandestinos y todo tipo de explotación en dicha industria. La ubicación del edificio de 11,250 pies cuadrados también tiene un profundo significado histórico, está a solo unas cuadras de donde Martin Luther King Jr. fue asaltado mientras marchaba por el vecindario para eliminar la segregación de viviendas en 1966. La construcción de la casa en 3055 West 63rd Street también fue un elección fácil para Katebi, ya que la mayoría de los miembros de Blue Tin y otros organizadores viven al sur y suroeste de la ciudad. “Era uno de los pocos vecindarios que estábamos mirando solo por lo que éramos”, dijo Katebi. La Casa 63 incluirá un espacio de trabajo colaborativo para jóvenes y organizadores después de la escuela, una pequeña biblioteca, un espacio de galería de arte, una sala de meditación, un jardín en la azotea, espacios de oficina y más. Los organizadores se conocieron por tener amigos en común, eventualmente vinculándolos a una red más grande de organizaciones comunitarias. Devonta Boston, fundador de TGiMovement, una organización comunitaria que comenzó en Gage Park High School en 2014 para brindar conocimientos sobre emprendimiento juvenil y recursos educativos, conectó a Katebi con el trabajo de Serrano en SWOP. La misión de SWOP de promover la equidad racial y la justicia económica al ayudar a desarrollar el liderazgo comunitario fue paralela a la de Blue Tin Production. “A menudo reconocemos algo bueno cuando lo vemos”, dijo Serrano sobre la Casa 63. La atracción personal de Boston por la construcción de la Casa 63 por parte de Blue Tin Production aumentó después del lanzamiento de su campaña Reclaiming The Hood de 2020. Esta ayudó a recaudar dinero para los dueños de negocios afroamericanos
FOTO CORTESÍA DE BLUE TIN PRODUCTION
Blue Tin Production está dirigida principalmente por trabajadoras de color, sobre todo inmigrantes y refugiadas.
buscando alentar la conversación sobre la riqueza generacional dentro de la comunidad que él conocía como “la Casa 63 alineada con ese momento y misión”. Mientras tanto, Timmy Châu, director gerente de Prison + Neighborhood Arts/Education Project (PNAP), una organización que se enfoca en enseñar artes visuales, escritura creativa, teoría política, historia y más a los estudiantes encarcelados en la prisión de máxima seguridad de Statesville. La misión del PNAP de llevar la educación artística a estas comunidades influyó en la adición de una galería de arte que formará parte de la Casa 63. “Ambas somos organizaciones que estamos fielmente comprometidas a seguir y desarrollar el liderazgo de las personas que se ven más afectadas por los problemas que estamos tratando de desafiar”, dijo Châu. Katebi dijo que centrar a las personas inmigrantes, refugiadas y de clase media en la construcción de este
espacio es parte de una misión más amplia para comenzar a imaginar activamente el mundo en el que las comunidades actuales y futuras quieran vivir. “Que sea dirigido y ejecutado por gente del barrio, creo que es realmente impactante para las personas que viven aquí, poder verse en el desarrollo de su propia comunidad”, dijo Serrano. “En nombre de la justicia o la liberación que tal vez nunca probaremos, esta [la Casa 63] nos permite pasar la antorcha”, dijo Katebi. Se han recaudado alrededor de 2,2 millones de dólares para la. Casa 63, según Katebi. Ella espera comenzar la construcción durante el verano y tener el edificio terminado dentro del próximo año y medio.
La DePaulia. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 17
OPINIÓN: Gordofobia latina es una experiencia de trauma generacional By Vanessa Ramos Editora de Multimedia, La DePaulia
Muchas personas en la comunidad latina han normalizado los comentarios sobre el cuerpo de su familiares, su estilo de vida, lo que comen, la cantidad de ejercicio que hacen y cómo se visten. Pero algunos no se dan cuenta de cómo estos comentarios afectan su salud mental y cómo pueden crear malos hábitos alimenticios en algunas personas. “Este es un estigma brutal y también está normalizado”, le dijo Alejandra Oyosa, feminista y activista antigordofobia, a The LA News. La estudiante de segundo año de DePaul, Victoria Ramírez, explicó cómo un énfasis excesivo en la imagen corporal desempeñó un papel importante en su propia educación. “Cuando mi hermana mayor era más pequeña, era bastante delgada, así que mi abuela insistía en alimentarla mucho porque pensaba que ‘se veía enfermiza’”, dijo Ramírez. “Mi hermana y yo crecimos con esos comentarios en la cabeza, y saber que otras personas observan cómo nos vemos y nos juzgan por eso, nos hace muy conscientes de ello”. Hay muchas formas en las que la gordofobia comienza en una familia, pero una de las principales razones es el trauma generacional; experiencias traumáticas vividas por los familiares que provocan efectos psicológicos y fisiológicos que se transmiten generacionalmente según Health. “Creo que la gordofobia en la cultura latina es definitivamente una experiencia traumática generacional”, dijo Ava Solís, ex alumna de
DePaul. “Puede ir de dos maneras; las generaciones más jóvenes pueden superar esa experiencia negativa y tratar de prevenirla para las generaciones futuras siendo más abiertos de mente o no haciendo de la imagen corporal una parte clave de la vida de un niño, o caer en el círculo y contribuirán a la negatividad” dijo Solís. wLos comentarios gordofóbicos no solo se derivan de tus padres, sino también de tías, tíos, amigos y familiares que pueden hacer comentarios porque asumen que te ayudarán a largo plazo. Incluso pueden hacer estos comentarios de forma alegre o como si fuera un buen consejo. Mi mamá tiene la mala costumbre de tratar de endulzar sus comentarios sobre mi cuerpo; preguntando si quiero conseguir un entrenador personal o empezar a presionarme para que me haga limpiezas con jugos para ayudarme a bajar de peso. “La cultura latina no es como ‘oh no, te ves tan gorda’, es bastante suave y te critican”, dijo la psicóloga colombiana Victoria Quintero. “A veces piensas que te están criticando porque están Psicológa colombiana siendo amables y dices que esas cosas ya no te quedan y que no te preocupes. Te voy a ayudar a adelgazar así que te compraré pastillas o te diré lo que no debes hacer o comer porque te hará engordar... Suenan a palabras de amor, pero claro que no les preocupa tu salud, sino más sobre cómo te ves”. Es muy común proyectar miedos en la propia familia. Muchos comentarios sobre tu apariencia pueden reflejarse hacia los demás
”Suenan a palabras de amor, pero claro que no les preocupa tu salud, sino más sobre cómo te ves”.
Victoria Quintero
GRÁFICO FRANKIE PEREZ | LA DEPAULIA
cuando es algo que temes, o los cambios por los que te gustaría pasar, y empujan estas ideas de tener un cuerpo e imagen específicos. La normalización de estos comentarios negativos se reflejan en las propias inseguridades. “Lo que he aprendido basado en mi familia es que las personas que hacen estos comentarios reflejan sus propias inseguridades y te las atribuyen”, dijo Solís. “Ser gorda no es algo malo en absoluto y los estándares de belleza de hoy en día son mucho más que irreales. Es normal tener grasa corporal y no tiene nada de malo disfrutar tu comida y comer lo que quieras”. Muchas familias no se dan cuenta de los problemas que pueden causar los comentarios sobre el aspecto físico de las personas. Ellos suponen que ser gordo se debe a que la gente es perezosa y no a los posibles problemas de salud que algunos pueden enfrentar. Personalmente, he estado luchando con un pinzamiento de cadera durante tres años y mis padres pasaron por alto mi lesión porque pensaron que solo estaba siendo floja. Quintero dice que este es el caso de su prima de Canadá, quien frecuentemente enfrenta el juicio de su familia sobre su peso. Su tía hacía comentarios de advertencia sobre los
tipos de alimentos que comía. “Aquí la comida te engorda si no te proteges”, dijo Quintero. “Comenzó su dieta y le resultó difícil porque ignoraba que podía tener otros problemas que pudieran afectar su cuerpo. Por ejemplo, problemas de metabolismo y tiroides, lo que haría pensar que la solución sería usar fajas reductoras de cintura, tomar pastillas y comer menos”. Es muy difícil identificar qué problemas son la raíz de los comentarios gordofóbicos, pero podemos ver cómo es algo muy normalizado en la cultura latina dado que los miembros de la familia a menudo piensan que sus comentarios son útiles. Por lo general, no hay una mala intención detrás, pero con el tiempo puede afectar la mentalidad de muchas personas y crear una división entre su relación con la comida y su cuerpo. “Tu belleza y valor no están determinados por la opinión de los demás sobre tu cuerpo o tus hábitos alimenticios”, dijo Ramírez. “Estás a cargo de ti mismo y solo de ti mismo, así que no dejes que nadie más te influya de manera negativa”.
Déjame planificar tu velada: Vida nocturna en Pilsen By Amber Stoutenborough Editora de Arte y Vida, The DePaulia
Te encuentras en uno de los vecindarios más vibrantes y eclécticos de Chicago una noche en Pilsen. Desde restaurantes galardonados hasta murales sensacionales, Pilsen es un vecindario único en el lado suroeste. Si bien esto no es normal ‘déjame planificar tu cita’, es un ‘déjame planificar tu velada’ llena de música increíble y cócteles típicos de la cultura latina. La Vaca 1160 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608 No se deje engañar por el nombre, la fila incluso llegaba hasta afuera de la puerta. El restaurante-bar estaba repleto de gente viendo el partido, bailando Bad Bunny y comiendo unas de las mejores ‘vaca fajitas’ de la ciudad. Una mejor versión de The River, pero con bebidas menos costosas, es la mejor manera de describirlo. Las margaritas picantes fueron la mejor elección de la noche y este lugar fue sin duda el mejor. Señoritas Cantina 1104 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608 Para sentarse a cenar en un bar, este relajado restaurante mexicano es ideal para tomar algo antes de salir por la noche. Aunque menos lleno que los anteriores, todavía estaba repleto de música y risas
mientras las camareras corrían. Las quesadillas rellenas son la mejor opción para un bocado rápido antes de volver a bailar. Twisted Cantina 1640 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608 Si bien este no fue nuestro último lugar de la noche, debería ser el tuyo. Abierto hasta las 3 am los sábados, esta atracción local te brinda todo lo que necesitas, desde una pista de baile completa hasta una excelente experiencia de bar. El DJ estaba tocando una mezcla de merengue clásico y Kanye, dando a todos una razón para ir a la pista de baile. Definitivamente este debería ser el final de tu noche. Penny Whistle Tavern 1854 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608 Este fue muy recomendado por todos a quienes les preguntamos. Con cócteles elegantes, rondas de billar, una cabina de fotos y una pista de baile secreta, este lugar era el mejor lugar para ir. El fotomatón estaba $6.50, algo caro, pero vale la pena por los recuerdos. La escena estaba dividida entre una barra pequeña de un lado y la pista de baile del otro lado, consideraría que encaja perfecto para una cita nocturna y pasar el rato con amigos.
FOTO CORTESÍA DE AMBER STOUTENBOROUGH | THE DEPAULIA
La Vaca Bar lleno de gente divirtiéndose un viernes en la noche.
18 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Arts & Life
NATE BURLEYSON | THE DEPAULIA
Chicagoans enjoy a sunny day on the 606 Trail, a popular place for outdoor recreational activities. Nate Burleyson, Online Editor, often bikes along this route during the summertime.
Nate's Biking Adventures By Nate Burleyson Online Editor
Although there are plenty of stories on the dangers of biking Chicago’s streets, biking in the city can be a relaxing and convenient way to travel. Still, there are a few different things to consider before biking for the first time. Consider this a guide to making biking easy. Proper gear An easy biker is someone who probably isn’t trying to bike more than a few miles at a time. So you don’t need to overdo it with the clothing. Compression shorts or underwear can be useful to prevent chafing. In warmer weather, drink extra water and wear breathable material. In colder weather, dress so if you were just standing still outside, you’d want another layer or two. It’s the same principle that applies to jogging in chilly temperatures. As you move fast and engage your leg muscles, you will naturally warm up. Gloves and winter hats will also save you. When it comes to wearing a helmet, not wearing one is only putting yourself in danger, so it’s a personal choice. And be honest with yourself, on average, how many bikers out of five do you see on the street wearing a helmet? It’s not as common as it probably should be. But, if you’d wear a seatbelt, why would you not wear a helmet? There’s not much to protect you on a bike. On your bike, a light is a must if you do any riding after sunset. One on the back that can switch between red and white light is best. You need to be seen at night — obviously don’t strap the Bat Signal to your bike, but be seen. You should wear reflective gear if possible. Where to bike I'll start by saying where you should never bike: the sidewalk. There are two scenarios where you should ride on a sidewalk: you are a toddler on a tricycle, or you are escaping the Temple of Doom. If you’re learning, go to one of the many paved alleys in the city.
Obviously, it’s more dangerous to bike on roads with no designated lanes, but danger still looms anywhere you share the road with cars. The best biking in the city is during non-busy times on the 606 Trail and the Lakefront Trail. If you’re not familiar, the 606 Trail runs in line with Bloomingdale Avenue from Wicker Park to Humboldt Park. It’s an elevated trail with designated bike and walking lanes. First off, I like this trail because it reminds me of the cycling road from “Pokemon Platinum.” I always thought the idea of an elevated bike trail was awesome, and my beliefs were confirmed when I rode the trail the first time. At just 5.4 miles roundtrip, it’s perfect for the easy biker. The Lakefront Trail is particularly bad on a very busy day. Other pedestrians don’t really care about the bike lane and there’s guys living out their Tour De France dream disgruntled that the trail isn’t empty with everyone cheering them on from the sides. If you want to minimize headache, go on a weekday (and wear a helmet). Regardless, the views and length can’t be beat — you have to use this trail as a city biker. Sharing the road with Cars The Hatfields and McCoys, Montagues and Capulets, the Celtics and the Lakers — whatever you can analogize it to, bikers and drivers are natural enemies. Many God-fearing, never tell a lie people have envisioned mowing down the cyclist slowing down the entire lane of traffic. And cyclists (like me) often wonder how satisfying it could be to slide a key across the paint of the Cadillac that nearly put us in a hearse truck. I’m not sure where I side in the bikes vs. cars debacle. I tend to believe Chicago is far too congested with cars, but also would prefer the current state over car-zoos like Houston or Atlanta. Many cyclists also play victim, but continuously blow through stop signs and red lights, or just throw themselves into the lane with a prayer. My best advice is to find the middle ground between aggression and passiveness. You need to command the space that
AMBER STOUTENBOROUGH | THE DEPAULIA
you are owed. If you’re in a bike lane, stay right in the middle of it. On a two-lane street, stick closer to the parked cars and don’t stop traffic behind you, but be wary of car doors opening to your side. Other than that, know that there is a population of drivers who assume that you’ll blow a stop sign. This doesn’t mean you should. Stopping and signaling which direction you are going in will lead to fewer
incidents. There are some resources for bikers. The city has a map of all streets with bike lanes. The Chicago Reader also compiled the “Mellow Chicago Bike Map,” which is very on-brand for the idea of the easy biker. So get out there, and try not to get hit!
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 19
Critics Film Festival returns By Jacob Costello Staff Writer
In the past week, I watched 42.5 hours worth of movies. This undertaking was all part of the Chicago Critics Film Festival, which is an annual film festival programmed by the Chicago Critics Association with the movies they have seen at previous festivals. The critics pick their favorite movies from these festivals to put together a selection for Chicago moviegoers. Directors and actors attended as special guests, doing post-film question and answer sessions with the audience. The festival had many highs and a few lows, and it offered a fantastically different slate of movies. In addition to movie screenings, I participated in a few question and answer sessions with various directors. These sessions gave great insight into the creative process of moviemaking as a whole. I was also given the opportunity of a one on one interview with one of the directors, Stefan Forbes. This is the ninth year of the Chicago Critics Festival. The festival had to take a break recently due to the global pandemic. In October, the Critics Association held a mini festival, but this May has marked the return of the festival in true form.The festival opened with “Cha Cha Real Smooth” directed by Cooper Raiff. This was a very sweet movie that was a definite crowd pleaser. Raiff held a question and answer session after the screening and offered some advice to young filmmakers.“Make something that means something to you and hopefully it can affect someone else,” Raiff said. Another highlight of the festival was the selection of horror and thriller movies. Award shows have historically ignored these genres, so it was a welcome experience. My favorite one shown was “Resurrection,” directed by Andrew Semans. The film follows a woman haunted by a man from her past who suddenly returns and turns her life upside down. This is a fantastically tense movie and features incredible performances by Rebecca Hall and Tim Roth. The movie had a very unsettling atmosphere which kept me engaged and on the edge of my seat. The most impressive performance of the festival was Andrea Riseborough in “To Leslie,” directed by Michael Morris. Riseborough plays a Texas woman who wins the lottery and squanders her winnings, leading to her becoming a homeless alcoholic. The movie is about her attempts to redeem herself and get back on the right path. Riseborough is a wonder to watch. She manages to play a very unlikeable character but in a way that the audience is always rooting for her. The amount of people in the audience would fluctuate. For the documentaries and lesser known movies, very few people beyond the press would show up. For the movies supported by large studios or the ones with an A-list cast, the theater would be close to selling out. This is not surprising, but it is a little sad that so many amazing movies were only seen by a handful of people. “Hold Your Fire” is a documentary about a 1972 hostage situation in New York City which was solved with words as opposed to guns. The movie is incredibly powerful and the director describes it as a tool to reduce real life violence. I was lucky enough to have a sit down with the director of “Hold Your Fire,” Stefan Forbes. Forbes grew up as a film nerd and made his own Super 8 movies as a kid. He always wanted to be a writer and director, and later became an apprentice to cameramen. He got his start in the film industry being a camera operator on movies such as “The Boondock Saints.” He is a strong advocate for internship and believes it is one of the best ways to learn about an industry you are passionate about.
Forbes is hopeful for the next generation of filmmakers -- but he has his concerns. “To all the young filmmakers coming up, us older filmmakers are excited and thrilled at the stories you are going to tell, but we are also terrified for your sake because this is such an incredibly difficult business,” he said. Forbes sees an important path ahead for student filmmakers at DePaul and around the country“We as filmmakers need your transformative stories to help save a nation that is teetering on the brink of facism and a planet that is about to get destroyed. We need these new voices urgently. We need the Gretas, and these young activists to be fierce and uncompromising and to tear shit up,” he said.One of the most interesting and unique movies of the festival was “The Blind Man Who Did Not Want To See Titanic,” directed by Teemu Nikki. This movie tells the story of a cinefile, who is blind and uses a wheelchair, as he takes a trip to meet his online girlfriend. The camerawork in this movie is truly amazing. The filmmakers use closeups and out-of-focus shots to simulate the disability of the main character. This movie is truly amazing beyond the technical aspects. The story is touching and finds the humor of an awful situation in great ways. This movie hit me on a great emotional level and I urge everyone to watch it when it becomes available. The festival closed with “I Love My Dad,” directed by James Morosini. The movie was hilarious, incredibly cringey and also very heartfelt. Patton Oswalt plays a man who catfishes his son in order to get back into his life. After the movie the stars, Morisini, Oswalt, Claudia Sulewski, and Amy Landecker, held a question and answer session. The cast answered a lot of questions. From the allegedly true experience Morisini had that inspired the movie, to what it was like making a movie with such a boundary pushing premise the cast gave a lot of insight into the creation of this movie. “This was a fun role for me because we have all been like this guy,” Oswalt said. “Doing the wrong thing for the right reasons is something we can all relate to, whether we want to admit it or not.” As a whole package, the Chicago Critics Film Festival was a very fun experience. In addition to the new movies, there were two selections of short films and screening of classics “Boogie Nights” and “Bram Stoker’s Dracula.” CCFF gave an excellent window in what to expect in the upcoming year for movies. While not every movie was for me, they might be perfect for you. I highly recommend every movie that was screened at the festival.
WILL KLEIHEGE | THE DEPAULIA
Music Box Theatre, located on Southport Avenue, hosts the Chicago Critics Film Festival.
WILL KLEIHEGE | THE DEPAULIA
Director Stefan Forbes' film "Hold Your Fire" played at the week long film festival in May.
20 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 21
Let me plan your evening By Amber Stoutenborough Arts & Life Editor
Emos are out again
ART BY ALICIA GOLUSZKA
My Chemical Romance returns to the spotlight with latest single By Lilly K eller Asst. Arts & Life Editor
Last week, My Chemical Romance surprised fans by quietly releasing "Foundations of Decay," their first high-profile release since their 2014 single "Fake Your Death.". Founded in 2001, My Chemical Romance consists of lead singer Gerard Way, bassist Mikey Way, lead guitarist Ray Toro and Frank Iero on rhythm guitar. Throughout the band’s initial run, they served as the forefront of modern emo, defining the genre’s second coming. During the years between the band's 2013 breakup and 2019 reconciliation, many fans were surprised to see My Chemical Romance officially back in action. Despite the band's tightlipped behavior regarding releasing new music, "Foundations of Decay" embodies the taboo qualities that made the genre of emo famous guaranteeing to connect with both longtime and new listeners. Within the six-minute single, Gerard Way's gritty vocals and nostalgic blend of emo chords are highlighted, acting as a welcome return to the familiar sound that defined the early 2000s. Longtime My Chemical Romance fan and DePaul sophomore Nicholas Magel expressed his excitement for the band's comeback. "MCR was a band that I grew up with and probably the first band I would have called myself a 'huge fan' of,” Magel said. “They will always have a place in my heart. There will always be a part of me cheering them on." Over the course of the band’s initial 12year journey and the three years since their revival, they have released over four studio albums and over 90 songs, covers and demos. As for My Chemical Romance's latest release, Magel praised the band's decision to keep their iconic sound and jagged themes of aging and the unstoppable passage of time. "I think it reminds me a lot of the older stuff they put out,” Magel said. “Not to ‘deconstruct’ the music or anything, but I feel like it goes well with the sound they had made. It kind of made me feel like I was living in my childhood again, running around my house with earbuds in singing along." DePaul junior Kaitlyn Milligan expressed her desire for the band to maintain the angst-ridden ambiance that so many fans have grown to love. "I hope that they keep their emo atmo-
sphere, as that is how they grew their fan base, and that's why so many of us love MCR — because they are so emo,” Milligan said. “Plus, by keeping their old brand, it will feel more nostalgic, which I like with music." Although "Foundation of Decay" is the band's first launch in almost a decade, it has been anything but a disappointment. Reeling in over 6 million streams in under a week, the single's success proves My Chemical Romance’s fans remain just as loyal as they were in 2013. "While I think that ‘Foundations of Decay’ is not their best song, it is not an awful song either,” Milligan said. “I felt that the beginning of the song sounded like any other generic alt rock song, but the later part of the song sounded like older MCR, which I appreciated a lot as it took me back to listening to their older albums. I just really like how the last part was edgier and rawer." DePaul freshman Kyle Duke explained what elements of the song stood out to him
the most. "It has that classic My Chemical Romance sound, with loud, emotional guitar chords layered with Gerard's almost whiny vocals," Duke said. “It feels like emo poppunk squished with parts of contemporary hard rock." Before their split, My Chemical Romance managed to encapsulate a different modulation in each of their four albums, from the cemented emo, post-hardcore sound of their first major release, "I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love," to the gothic cathedral harmony of "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge." "The chorus is catchy as hell like always and the outro is brutal," Duke said. While it is difficult to predict when My Chemical Romance will release more music, it's more than evident that they will always have the fan base to rely on, no matter how many years pass.
LILLY KELLER | THE DEPAULIA
Find yourself in one of Chicago’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods on your next night out in Pilsen. From award winning restaurants to sensational murals, Pilsen is a unique neighborhood in the lower West Side. While this isn’t a normal “let me plan your date,” this is a “let me plan your evening,” filled with amazing music and strong cocktails rich in Latino culture. La Vaca 1160 W. 18th St. Don’t let the name fool you, the line was out the door. The restaurant-bar was packed with people watching the Mavericks vs. Warriors NBA playoff game, dancing to Bad Bunny and eating some of the best vaca fajitas in town. A better version of The River but with less expensive drinks is the best way to describe it. Spicy margaritas were the top pick of the night and this place was hands down the best. Señoritas Cantina 1104 W. 18th St. A sit-down dinner with a bar, this relaxed Mexican restaurant is great for a place to grab food before a night out. While less busy than the other three, it was still bustling with music and laughter as the waitresses hurried around. The stuffed quesadillas are the best choice for a quick bite before going out to dance again. Twisted Cantina 1640 S. Blue Island Ave. While this isn’t the last stop on this list, it should be for your night out. Open till 3 a.m. on Saturdays, this local attraction gives you everything you need, from a full dance floor to great bar experience. The DJ was blasting a mixture of classic merengue and Kanye, giving everyone a reason to go to the dance floor. Penny Whistle Tavern 1854 S. Blue Island Ave. This one was highly recommended by everyone we passed. With fancy cocktails, rounds of pool, a photo booth and a secret dance floor, this place was the top spot to go to. With the photo booth $6.50 per photo is quite pricey, but worth it for the memories. With the space split evenly into an intimate bar on one side and the dance floor on the other, I would consider this to be the best spot for a date night and hanging out with friends.
22 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
'Boogie Nights'
ALLISON FREEMAN | THE DEPAULIA
A blast from the past: A ‘70s joyride into an ‘80s four-car pileup By Jacob Costello Staff Writer
At the midway point of the Chicago Critics Film Festival, the Chicago Film Critics Association showed a beautiful 35mm print of Paul Thomas Anderson’s 1997 triumph “Boogie Nights.” Music Box Theatre was completely sold out for this screening, which was a change of pace from the smaller crowds at the rest of the festival. “Boogie Nights” stars Mark Wahlberg as Eddie Adams, a well-endowed teenager who wants to make a name for himself. After meeting Jack Horner, a pornographic movie director masterfully portrayed by Burt Reynolds, Eddie takes on a new name fit for a star: Dirk Diggler. Dirk and Jack soon become the kings of the adult film industry, but the higher the men climb, the harder they fall. As the ‘70s become the ‘80s, the empire they built begins to crumble and Dirk’s star power withers away. “Boogie Nights” has a stellar ensemble cast. I do not want the rest of my review to consist only of name-dropping, but know that any name you read in the credits makes the most of their screen time. Whether it is two and a half minutes or the full two and a half hours, every single actor gives a hell of a performance. I loved all the actors in this movie, but I want to highlight my two favorites. Reynolds won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 70th Academy Awards for good reason. He is a pleasure to watch, and his quest to get the public to see the art in porn is quite something to behold. The way he plays his part with such seriousness, regardless of the ridiculous dialogue or situations, really shows his prowess as an actor. His performance in “Boogie Nights” is easily my favorite in the movie and also the crowning achievement of his career. My other favorite actor is in this movie for only 10 minutes, but in those 600 seconds, he gives an incredibly memorable performance. Alfred Molina plays Rahad Jackson, an eccentric drug dealer that Dirk and his friends plan to rob near the end of the movie.
Clad in a mustache, bathrobe and gold chain, Molina delivers a show-stealing performance. The editing and sound make his scene unbelievably tense, and Molina’s gleeful jamming out to his mixtapes add hilarity to this wonderful sequence. If you watch this movie for nothing else but Molina, I would not blame you. “Boogie Nights” is not just a wonderfully talented ensemble — the writing and direction really stand out as some of Anderson’s best work. While not my favorite Paul Thomas Anderson movie — “Punch-Drunk Love” will always have my heart — this is a close second. The movie has so many creative and hilarious lines about porn. Anderson’s dialogue is chock-full of one-liners and absurd bits, but the majority of it is played so straight that the dialogue becomes even funnier. Anderson writes with such creativity and uniqueness, and this movie is an excellent showcase of that. This is such a pretty movie, with excellent camerawork. The colors and cinematography evoke the essence of the ‘70s so well. I was not alive for the ‘70s, or even 1997 when this movie came out, but “Boogie Nights” makes me feel like I was truly there. Seeing this movie in a sold-out theater was an excellent experience. Beyond just the look of seeing it on film, having an audience to laugh and cry with is always a welcome addition. The atmospheric feeling of a crowd can make an already enjoyable movie so much better. Feeling the discomfort of the audience during pivotal scenes makes them more bearable than when I watch this movie alone. There were two moments when the audience cheered. The first was when Phillip Seymour Hoffman entered the movie. That felt really good. He was a talent gone too soon, and hearing the love they have for him made me smile. The second was at the end of Wahlberg’s closing monologue. If you have seen the movie before you will know exactly what I am refer-
ring to, but if you haven’t, just know it is exactly what the 155 minute runtime has been building up to. “Boogie Nights” is a superb movie. Every single performance in this movie is at least one person’s favorite. The soundtrack will have you tapping along and inspire you to listen to ‘70s greatest hits on your next commute.
I do not know if I can recommend you watch this with your parents, but this is a movie I think best viewed with a group of friends. You will laugh, cry, cringe and become enamored with the magic and charm of “Boogie Nights.” I am giving “Boogie Nights” five out of five stars.
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'Firestarter': Some movies are better off as classics
PHOTO FROM IMDB
Zac Efron and Ryan Kiera star in a scene from the film "Firestarter," released May 13.
By Tiffany Harrell Contributing Writer
The newest 2022 remake, “Firestarter,” is streaming only on Peacock. This is an adaptation of the Stephen King novel which was first adapted for film in 1984, starring Drew Barrymore — a classic many of us who grew up in the ‘80s loved. Remakes are nothing new, but there have been so many ‘80s and ‘90s films revamped into the 21st century. Unfortunately for this one, it completely missed the mark. Let’s start with the new version of “Firestarter,” directed by Keith Thomas and written by Scott Teems, a co-writer of “Halloween Kills,” another movie that didn’t hit the mark. This version is from Blumhouse Productions, who, in my opinion, has had a pretty good track record in the horror genre with “Get Out,” “The Purge” and “Happy Death Day.” However, when it comes to remakes, they fall short, like with 2018’s “Halloween.” The new “Firestarter” stars Ryan Kiera Armstrong as Charlie, a young girl with pyrokinetic powers, an ability to set things on fire when she loses control of her emotions. Charlie’s parents are played by Sydney Lemmon as Vicky, best known for her work as Jennifer in the HBOMax series “Succession,” and Zac Efron as Andy McGee, who played Matt Brody in 2017’s “Baywatch” reboot. Vicky has telekinetic capabilities and Andy has telepathic powers from the lab that experimented on both of them as college students, fearing that Charlie would be locked up and experimented on if caught they taught her to suppress her powers. Gloria Rubin co-stars as the official leading the search for Charlie with Michael Greyeyes as gifted assassin Rainbird and Kurtwood Smith, who only appeared in one scene as the former head of the lab. “Firestarter” plods along from uninspired scene to uninspired scene with the actors never really playing any other beat than grave resignation.
As Charlie, Armstrong gives a good enough performance with the material she’s given, which is basically to lose control of her emotions, look scared from time to time and then scream fire at someone every 10 or 15 minutes. There should be some driving passion or desire to make this movie something new that you can take in a new direction. Sort of like what Jordan Peele did with “Candyman,” but there’s nothing new in this movie. This is a mish-mash of themes seen in other films. There is one troubling factor in “Firestarter” that should not have been there. Suppose you are a supporter of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, then this film may not be your cup of tea. There is an extended scene of animal cruelty that didn’t add any value to the movie. Some might say that it sets up something later on, but the payoff was not worth what it puts you through as a person who loves animals. Karim Hussain’s cinematography for this film came straight from David Fincher’s style, including low lighting and smoke for no reason. The score is from horror legends John Carpenter, Cody Carpenter and Daniel Davies. The music excites you, but aside from that, there isn’t much more to say. I couldn’t ask you to watch it even if you have Peacock. It’s not worth the time investment to sit and see it when there are so many other things out there on this streaming service — or any other streaming service — that would be a better use of your 90 minutes. The best I can say is that it’s a good movie to watch when you are on a long flight or have trouble sleeping. In that case, this is the remedy to both of your problems. The moral of the story remains if it’s not broken, then don’t try to fix it or, better yet, remake it. "Firestarter" is genuinely less than a star, but because it’s Blumhouse, I will give it one star out of five.
Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 23
'Bad Boys': go bad or go home
PHOTO FROM IMDB
DreamWorks new animated movie "Bad Guys" earned $24 million on opening weekend.
By Preston Zbroszczyk Contributing Writer
DreamWorks Animation’s film “The Bad Guys“ hit the theaters on April 22. The comedy and adventure animation film brings the setting of a team of five legendary heist members, led by the notorious Mr. Wolf. The four other members — Mr. Snake, Mr. Shark, Mr. Piranha and Ms. Tarantula — each possesses a set of special skills to make heist jobs easier and gives them the “bad guy” reputation. The “Go bad or go home” mantra is something they live by, and are motivated by facing their biggest heist yet: trying to capture the Golden Dolphin, which has never been done before. Directed by Pierre Perifel, the cast of Richard Ayoade as Professor Rupert Marmalade and Awkwafina Ms. Tarantula added to play each character nearly perfectly fits the persona of everyone throughout the movie. Sam Rockwell plays the lead role as Mr. Wolf, complemented by the humorous roles of Anthony Ramos and Craig Robinson as Mr. Piranha and Mr. Shark, which makes for a good mix of seriousness and comedy. DreamWorks once again balances out the animation and storyline, making it an enjoyable film for all ages. After newly elected mayor Diane Foxington calls out the Bad Guys for their lousy efforts and continuous bank robberies, she encourages the team to set out and take the Golden Dolphin which is the award for the person who has exemplified goodness. The comedy remains relevant and on point throughout heist sequences, portraying crime in a humorous way. Those familiar with DreamWorks will be able to relate to the idea and break down how their movies are produced. Like “Shrek” or “Kung Fu Panda,” there are morals behind the film’s plot, but you also get the sense of comedy acclimated with the adventure and journey the movie plays out. The Bad Guys get caught in their at-
tempt to steal the Golden Dolphin, but they are given a chance at redemption when the recipient of the Golden Dolphin, professor Rupert Marmalade, convinces the mayor to challenge them to be good guys, and they will be set free to start over. Organized by Mr. Wolf and his manipulative attempt to play nice and innocent, the Bad Guys put on a show and displayed good behavior. Despite the efforts of professor Marmalade, the attempt to make the gang “good guys” isn’t as easy as he thought. He challenges them by performing a heist to rescue thousands of guinea pigs. Mr. Wolf is challenged the most; when he rescues a kitten from a tree, there is a moment in the film that exemplifies the potential good that he may pose. The rest of the gang may be under the impression that it was done as a stunt, but was it really? The entire movie shifts when all along professor Marmalade was the one playing games against the mayor and Mr. Wolf and his team. Soon after Mayor Foxington sees what has happened, she comes to the rescue, getting the Bad Guys out of prison and making sure professor Marmalade does not obtain the full power from the meteor. In the movie's earlier scenes, professor Marmalade's hidden evils are easier to see between the lines. His statue of him holding the meteor and its so-called “legendary love meteor” makes for a rude awakening when all along he takes the meteor when it is displayed for the first time. He uses the Bad Guys as a distraction because nobody expects it from him. The Bad Guys turned out to be the good guys after all — they stuck together, and each had moments throughout the movie that displayed their good deeds. DreamWorks produced yet another riveting story line that turned something like crime into a moral story highlighting the pay off of doing good deeds
24 | Arts & Life. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
St.Vincent’s
D e JAMZ
“Spinning fresh beats since 1581” By Jackie Cardenas La DePaulia Editor in Chief
After two years in the pandemic, Bad Bunny’s latest album release, “Un Verano Sin Ti,'' is the perfect rhythmic mix and reminder of all the summer moments I longed for. Maybe it’s the title’s direct reference to summer, or maybe it's his unforgettable splash of Caribbean merengue throughout his tracks. Regardless, it’s one that will have every Latinx person blasting it through their speakers the best way we know how. Although I love many of the tracks on this latest album, I will only be talking about “Después de la playa.” Instead, I will bring back some of the songs that paved the way for us to enjoy this album in its full glory. Después de la playa by Bad Bunny If you’ve ever listened to this song, you know about the incredible sudden beat
transition from typical reggaeton to merengue. This is the song many consider to be a family friendly favorite. It is one you can play at the carne asada because you already know the Tia’s hips can’t lie with this beat. Si Veo a Tu Mamá by Bad Bunny Although this song is basically about checking up on an ex-lover’s status after a breakup, it has an upbeat tune. Truthfully, this song holds a special place in my heart because of the way my two sisters and I loudly shouted “maldito año nuevo” or “damn new year” on New Year’s Eve after a lousy year in lockdown. We were tired and ready for things to get better. La Canción ft. J Balvin by Bad Bunny Honestly, this song will probably remind you of a toxic ex-boyfriend or girlfriend. Forewarning, don’t listen if you’re prone to drunk texts. This is the kind of
Crossword Snow or Shine by Alejandro Arakelian
song you have to keep an eye out for one of your homegirls because one of them is suddenly going to talk about how she should get back together with Jose, the guy she’s been on and off with since high school. ANTE QUE SE ACABE by Bad Bunny This is a great one to play to remind yourself that nothing is forever. Not the good, not the bad, everything is temporary. If you are going through a rough time, its lyrics remind you to see the big picture rather than to focus on miniscule moments in life that will likely not matter in a week, month, or year from now. BENDICIONES by Bad Bunny One of my personal favorites from the “LAS QUE NO IBAN A SALIR” album released back when we were in “peak pandemic” during May 2020. This song literally translates to “blessings.” It is a personal reminder for me to show gratitude for the people and experiences in your life.
ACROSS 1 Gordon Ramsey, for one 5 Show ___ 8 Dad 12 Result of a quadratic equation 14 Gaza native 15 "Abracadabra!" 16 Videographer ___ Bennett 17 Mathematical rating system 18 Deep cuts 20 Shinbone 23 What an adjective describes 24 Feature of corn but not rice 25 Peeved 29 Medical suffix 30 Corrective eye surgery 32 Prefix with cycle 33 Geometric figure that might be made of sand 35 Poetic feet 37 Fitting anagram for"vile" 38 Neuters 39 Like some homes 42 Opposite of WNW 43 ___lemon 44 Symbol branded on Barry Bonds' 756th home run ball 49 Thor's father 50 Online music platform popular with indie artists 51 Set up for a drive 52 Nabakov novel 53 Great Salt Lake state
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WIKI
DOWN 1 Tax pro 2 "2001" computer 3 Satchel Paige's was 1.01 in 1944 4 Entry pass at McGee's 5 Knucklehead 6 Dockworkers' org. 7 Ice machine 8 "Scarface" star 9 Yankee nickname 10 White as a ghost 11 Fivers 13 Ski mask 19 Like golden skin 20 Radiohead frontman Yorke 21 Kanye West's "____ God" 22 Raisin ___ 23 Like a country singer's voice 26 Southwestern Arizona city 27 Phonetic shortening of "nonbinary" 28 Insult 31 "Arabian Nights" hero 34 "___ the police": Activist's call in 2020 36 Cursory glance 39 Story line 40 Impolite 41 Nobelist Wiesel 42 Sicilian volcano 45 Bummed out 46 "Am ___ risk?" 47 Wee, to a Scot 48 Speed measure in E.U.
Sports
Sports. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 25
Embracing the future with open arms
Returning softball players ready to step up as leaders next season
EMILY SOTO | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul softball celebrates after their 6-2 win over UConn at the Big East Tournament on May 12.
By Darcy Waskiewicz Sports Editor
After back-to-back losses at the Big East Tournament, DePaul softball has turned their attention towards next season, and the returning players are ready to step up and take on new challenges. Headlining the returning players is graduate pitcher Sarah Lehman, who is using her extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA due to the Covid-19 pandemic. After transferring in from Iowa at the beginning of the school year, Lehman shined throughout the season and Big East tournament, finishing with an ERA of 2.83 and a record of 15-6, with 131 strikeouts. “There’s always struggles with transferring and getting to know people in a whole different environment and meeting new people and all that,” Lehman said. “But I think growing those relationships with my teammates and knowing they have my back no matter what and me wanting to have their back no matter what, I think that really came into play at the end.” With Lehman returning to the pitcher’s mound for another season, she will need the defense behind her to have her back. One of the players Lehman will have backing her up is junior first baseman Brooke Johnson. Her 61 hits and 52 RBIs carried the Blue Demons throughout the season and into the Big East tournament, while Johnson’s willingness to always record outs helped DePaul’s defense. Another dominant returning player is junior right fielder Tori Meyer, who finished the season second on the team in hits with 56 and a batting average of .339. She also tallied 34 RBIs and five home runs, while also finishing with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage. The graduating seniors had a big impact on Meyer as veteran players in her time at DePaul, and she wants to have that same impact on younger and incoming players, she said. “I want to replicate what the seniors did for me with the younger people coming in because they set really good examples,” Meyer said. Next to Meyer in the outfield is sophomore center fielder Nicole Sullivan, who also has the opportunity to serve as a leader next season. After a breakout freshman season, Sullivan’s second season saw her amass 40 hits and 33 RBIs. According to Sullivan, the team grew really close last season, especially near the end as the tension and competition ramped up. “These are my best friends and people that I love being with,” Sullivan said. “So, I think taking that and the way that we interact outside of softball and taking that onto the field and playing for one another and through the adversity, I think that will be a big deal next year.”
DONALD CROCKER | THE DEPAULIA
Freshman Anna Wohlers high fives graduate student Sarah Lehman in their 7-1 win over Villanova on April 2. They are both returning next season.
Leaving the team are shortstop Maranda Gutierrez, second baseman Skylor Hilger, left fielder Kate Polucha and pitcher Erin Hocker. A three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, Gutierrez has been a steady member of the team for five years, while Hilger has been a strong player at DePaul for six years. The team and head coach Tracie Adix-Zins will have to find players who can step into those roles. “Each team has their own path and their own leadership, and so next year, it’s going to be ‘Who’s going to step up? Who’s going to be the one to fill the role of the seniors that we had?’” Adix-Zins said. “We have some ideas of who might fill [Gutierrez’s] role at shortstop and that’s going to be hard to fill considering the balls she can get to and how she throws the ball.” Some of those roles can be filled by freshmen catcher Anna Wohlers, designated player Baylee Cosgrove and infielder Carly Alvers, who found success in their debut seasons. As a catcher/third baseman, Wohlers grew as a player over the season while catching for Lehman and Hocker. She and Lehman clicked together as a battery, which earned them the start in DePaul’s 6-2 win over UConn in game one of the Big East Tournament on May 13. Wohlers also contributed to much of DePaul’s offense, with 48 hits and eight home runs. DePaul’s other catcher, Riley Pool, is a sophomore and her and Wohlers are likely to split time behind home plate. Therefore, Wohlers may get some starts at third base. But
DARCY WASKIEWICZ | THE DEPAULIA
Junior Tori Meyer hugs graduate student Skylor Hilger at the Big East Tournament on May 13.
when she played as catcher this season, it was Alvers who started at third. Meanwhile, Cosgrove served mainly as the team’s designated player, which meant that she was their main hitter in place of the pitcher in the lineup. She finished the season with 24 hits, but also earned a few starts at second base. With Hilger graduating, that may be a position Cosgrove can fill next season. As this year comes to a close, Lehman, Meyer and Sullivan all plan to take some time
away from softball and especially focus on their time left with the graduating seniors. After that, they will all go their own ways over the summer to train before coming back to begin another season and make another attempt at a Big East title. “Starting where we left off,” Lehman said on the team’s goals for next season. “I know that there are going to be some big shoes to be filled with our seniors leaving, but just welcoming the newcomers and having fun.”
26 | Sports. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022
Track and field looks to excel in NCAA West preliminary rounds
BEN ZEBROWSKI | THE DEPAULIA
Jarel Terry races in the 400m dash preliminaries at the Big East Indoor Championship on Feb. 25, where he placed second. On May 14, he won gold for his 46.37 time at the Outdoor Championship.
By Joshua M. Hicks Asst. Sports Editor
After dominating at the outdoor conference championships, DePaul’s track and field team is now sending players to the NCAA West Preliminary meet this week in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Players such as freshman Darius Brown and juniors Jarel Terry and Tori Carroll, who were all recently nominated for the All-Big East Team, will be participating in the meet. Prior to the outdoor season, head coach Dave Dopek had faith that this team was going to perform well as the outdoor season was approaching. “Our team is built for the outdoor season,” Dopek said after DePaul finished in the top three at the Big East Indoor Conference Championships in April. “It’s not built for indoors, but indoor is what we do to get us to where we ultimately need to be. We just got to put in the work and when we branch out to do the other events that are outdoor specific events, I have a strong feeling that this will springboard us into it.” With the outdoor season now complete after the team claimed four gold medals and 11 podium appearances in outdoor conference play, participants are ready and preparing to take on the next challenge. One of the biggest accomplishments Terry wanted to fulfill was representing the school by going to the national stage in Oregon come June. He is now halfway there with a chance to take that next step against the best of the best. “I’m looking forward to improving my time, but not only improving my time, but also representing the university in front of the nation,” Terry said last week. “I want to show that we can also compete with these major schools.” Terry, who won gold for his 46.37 time in the 400m dash, will be running the same race in the upcoming meet. He is aware that he has to run a little faster than his outdoor conference time to make it to Nationals, but
he is not worried about it. If anything, he is more confident than he ever was in getting the national time, which is between 45.8 and 45.9. “Coach and I did the statistics from previous years,” Terry said. “I’m going to go out there and get it.” For Carroll, advancing to the preliminaries validated the hard work that she has been putting in. “It feels like a lot of the hard work that I’ve been doing is paying off,” Carroll said. “I put a lot of effort into the long jump this year so it is great to showcase that at the preliminares.” Carroll, who won All-Big East honors for her long jump and third-place performance in the 4x100m race, will be striving to capitalize on her recent recordbreaking long jump performance at the outdoor conference championships. She won the gold medal with a distance of 6.38m and broke a school record that was set in 2015. Similarly to Terry, she too wants to go to Nationals in Oregon to represent DePaul on the biggest stage, but she is more focused on executing the technique compared to getting an even longer distance than what she has jumped before. “I’m not too focused on the distance because the goal is just to execute the technique that qualified me through now,” Carroll said. As a freshman, Brown is making a lot of noise in the conference. He won All-Big East honors for his 110m and 400m hurdles and expressed his desire to compete again in the 110m hurdles, for which he placed second at the outdoor championships with a 14.22 running time. “First year of college, I’m competing with people that are Olympic training,” Brown said. “To know that I’m that close means so much to me. I have so many more years to go so I have to keep improving each year.” Despite how many individual components track and field has, it is
still a team sport, and none of this year’s competitors take for granted the importance of teamwork. The whole team may not be present at the preliminary rounds, but they hold a special place in Terry, Carroll and Brown’s hearts. “I wouldn’t be here without the support of my teammates,” Carroll said. “They push me constantly in practice so ensuring that I give my best on the day of competition is really important to me.”
Terry echoed Carroll’s sentiment, expressing that when it is time to run his event, he is going to give it his all in representation of his teammates. “A lot of my teammates wish they were here,” Terry said. “They wish they had the opportunity, so I told them y’all can live through me because I’m going to make sure that I do the best that I can, not just for myself but for you all as well.”
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Sports. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 27
Softball junior leads the team on and off the field By Preston Zbroszczyk Contributing Writer
In sports, leadership and the support for teammates are contagious, whether that is off or on the playing field. For DePaul’s softball team, that onthe-field leader is junior first baseman Brooke Johnson. Johnson is from Chino Hills, California, just 34 miles west of Los Angeles. Her decision to come to DePaul was an easy one, which involved past experiences with Chicago’s winters. “[Chicago is] definitely different, it took me a while [to adjust] but I have family actually that lives in Illinois,” Johnson said. “So I’ve been here and experienced the weather, so I was not too surprised, but it is still really cold compared to California. Playing in cold weather was hard, my freshman year during winter was a big change, but this year I got used to it.” Having family members who live in Illinois was not her only connection to DePaul — both of her parents are Blue Demon alumni. Perry and Christy Johnson have helped with their daughter’s transition to DePaul. Christy is a former softball player herself and Johnson’s cousin, Brianna Viles, played for coach Tracie Adix-Zins as a senior in 2018 when the new coaching staff took over. Since arriving at DePaul, Johnson has established herself at first base and has made major contributions while batting third in the lineup. This past season, she posted career highs in nearly every hitting category, with 61 hits, 52 runs batted in and 13 home runs. Standing at 6-foot-1, Johnson is the tallest on the team. Her speed goes unnoticed for how tall she is, but her humble personality makes for fierce competitiveness. Her batting average has improved each year. She recorded a .233 in her freshman year, a .298 in her sophomore season and she recently completed her junior season with a team high of .392. This has forced opposing pitchers to work deep into counts or intentionally walk her with a base open. “She has incredible bat speed, [and] the ability to hit the bat to all fields,” Adix-Zins said. “She is more comfortable, even though 2020 was her freshman year we had Covid, so 2021 was actually her freshman year. So I think now she is getting into that position where she is getting relaxed and her ability to drive the ball and do damage.” Johnson is soft-spoken, but her play on the field and leadership style speak volumes. She led the charge during the Big East Tournament on May 12-13. During the team’s 6-2 win over UConn in game one, she was involved on the defense and offensive end. She had two RBIs and reached base on nearly every plate appearance. “I think [Johnson] is a very quiet leader,” sophomore center fielder Nicole Sullivan said. “She leads more by example than anything else. You just know that when you look at her she might not be saying it all the time, but she is always doing what we need her to do.” Johnson has also been awarded with consecutive Big East All-Academic team scholar awards in 2020 and 2021. Her health science studies are not something she takes lightly. For a lot of students, especially those who are a long way from home, the pandemic posed significant challenges. Getting accustomed to a new life as
EMILY SOTO | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul softball junior first baseman Brooke Johnson high fives her teammates as the announce the lineup at the Big East Tournament on May 12.
a student-athlete was not the easiest. Adix-Zins said living off campus may have been the best move for the players, while having support and relationships with her teammates made it much easier. Johnson is dedicated to her studies and softball, and with one season left, the focus is to make it as best as possible, along with graduating as a health science major. “She is an incredible student,” AdixZins said. “Being in the health science major — I mean, that is hard. All January and February we missed her at the dome for practices because she does her chemistry classes.” Having already gained experience as one of the team leaders from previous seasons, her knowledge will help the next group that comes around and will fill the void lost from this season’s seniors. “I know last year I was very much an overthinker,” Johnson said. “I think that now I realize that you have to trust yourself and just go back to the basics. I think that’s what I’ve kind of been doing this year, not overthinking and just doing what I know.”
DONALD CROCKER | THE DEPAULIA
DePaul junior Brooke Johnson smiles during the Blue Demons’ 7-1 win over Villanova on April 2.
Sports
Sports. The DePaulia. May 23, 2022 | 28
And the winner is...
KIERSTEN RIEDFORD | THE DEPAULIA
Members of the DePaul men’s tennis team cheer as they watch a season recap video at the 2022 Billys Awards on May 20. The men were named Most Outstanding Team after their conference win.
KIERSTEN RIEDFORD | THE DEPAULIA
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPAUL ATHLETICS/DEPAUL WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TWITTER
Athletic director DeWayne Peevy stands with women’s basketball freshman Aneesah Morrow (left) and men’s tennis junior Vito Tonejc (right) as they hold their trophies at the Billys Awards.
Track and field junior Jarel Terry celebrates after winning Moment of the Year at the Billys Awards for placing first in the 400m dash at the Big East Outdoor Tournament on May 14.
Athletics hosts inaugural ‘The Billys’ awards to honor best athletes of 2021-22 By Darcy Waskiewicz Sports Editor
The blue carpet was rolled out on Friday as DePaul athletes gathered together to celebrate the highlights and accomplishments from the past year at the 2022 Billys Awards. After a couple years of the pandemic and not being able to interact with one another, the athletes were all smiles and cheers as they greeted each other while dressed up in the McGrath-Phillips Arena. The gymnasium was dark as the main lighting came from The Billys sign on the stage that athletes walked across to pick up their awards like a graduation ceremony. “This is great because since Covid, this is the first time that we can actually see each other not dressed in athletics clothes because we’re in that all day,” men’s tennis junior Vito Tonejc said. “This feels great to say hi to everyone and talk for a bit. Great vibes.” Women’s soccer senior Mollie Eriks-
son opened up the ceremony with a speech before letting athletic director DeWayne Peevy take over, who began by thanking all the athletes for their hard work over their seasons. The first awards of the night were the Sport Performance Awards, which went to Skylor Hilger from softball and Ben Litwin from track and field. A sixth-year senior, Hilger was a leader for the softball team this season, and finished with 39 hits, 11 RBIs and 10 stolen bases. Litwin, a senior, has dominated in outdoor competition this season. He placed second in hammer throw at the Illini Classic on April 9 with a distance of 57.51 and at the Gibson Invitation on April 23-24 with a distance of 54.61. At the Wisconsin Classic on May 6, Litwin placed third with a personal-best distance of 60.47. Freshman Aneesah Morrow shined on the basketball court in her debut season, which led to her being named Female Newcomer of the Year and Female Athlete
of the Year. Morrow finished the season with 689 points and 442 rebounds. She scored 31 points in her debut, a 114-71 win over Texas Southern on Nov. 9. In the Blue Demons’ last game of the regular season, Morrow had 41 points in a 90-84 win over Creighton on Feb. 27. “I know throughout my freshman year I’ve been getting a lot of awards,” Morrow said. “But just being recognized by my university felt amazing.” Men’s tennis dominated all season and again at the Billy Awards to cap off their year. Along with individual awards, the team as a whole was named DePaul athletics’ Most Outstanding Team. After a strong debut season, freshman Marino Jakic was named Male Newcomer of the Year. When men’s tennis won their second straight Big East Title, it was Jakic who helped push the Blue Demons to the victory with a singles win, earning him the title of Big East Most Outstanding Player. Jakic, along with doubles partner
Tonejc, were also strong in doubles competition, and Jakic’s efforts all season led to him being named the Big East Freshman of the Year. “It was an amazing feeling,” Jakic said on winning the Newcomer of the Year. “I didn’t expect I was going to win, so it was an amazing accomplishment and it’s going to make me a better player. I’m going to work harder to win the next award next year.” Tonejc also took home an award after being named the men’s Athlete of the Year for a second year in a row. Tonejc was a strong player all season, earning him the title of Big East Player of the Year for a second-straight year. “I won [Athlete of the Year] last year, but I wasn’t here because I had to play back home, so it felt great to be in person,” Tonejc said. “It’s obviously a team sport in college and this is fun, but I think winning the championship and getting another ring on my finger feels better, but this is still very good.”