The Leader -- November 22, 2022 Issue

COVER BY Rachel Fratt

Dear Leader Reader,

I cannot believe that this will be our last print issue of the 2022 fall semester, I guess time really does fly when you are having fun cov ering what’s going on at Elmhurst University. While I know we will meet again in the winter, I just want to thank everyone who has picked up a copy of The Leader throughout the semester. It has been an exciting, interesting journey, to say the least.

Thank you for supporting student journalism. Whether our game of ELMHURSTOPOLY snatched your attention, or our bustling sports section convinced you to check in with us every other week, The Leader is proud to serve the Elmhurst University community.

I never thought walking onto EU’s campus for the first time last fall that I would be manag ing its newspaper a year later. It shows how unexpected the college journey can be, and how many opportunities are available for students here.

There have been some hiccups along the way, and by no means has every moment been the most pleasant to handle, but there has been so much that I have learned in these past six months, and I cannot wait to continue to learn next semester.

Now that you have settled in, I encourage all EU students to think about joining us next semester and help highlight all the wonderful things that make our campus special. While this is technically a “break” for us, I never stop thinking about the paper. If you are interested in more information about The Leader, please email me at rwind3048@365. elmhurst.edu, and I would be glad to tell you more information or meet with you. We will be back on stands in early February. Keep your eyes peeled, our next issue is sure to be fetch ;).

Happy Reading! Ryan

@ElmhurstLeader @ElmhurstLeader @elmhurstleader

EDITORIAL BOARD

Ryan Windle (they/he) Editor-in-Chief Rachel Fratt (she/her) Head Graphics Editor Abbey Mark (she/her)

Head Social Media Graphics

Ilana Garnica (she/her)

Chief Copy Editor

Emmy Shaffer (she/her) News Editor

Alyssa Kuehne (she/her) Sports Editor

Adriana Briscoe (she/her)

Opinions Editor

Numair Younus (he/him)

Photo Editor STAFF Aleena Antony (she/her) Staff Writer

Miguel Flojo (he/him) Staff Writer Gabriel E. Galindo (he/him) Staff Writer David Castañeda (he/him) Staff Writer Santé Dybowski (he/him) Staff Writer

Sarah Glees (she/her) Staff Writer

Kay Loving (she/her) Staff Copy Editor

Karmyn Flesch (she/her) Staff Copy Editor

Selkie Bodmer (they/them) Cartoonist

Delanie Graziano (she/her) Cartoonist ADVISER

GRAPHIC BY Rachel Fratt (she/her)

ABOUT US

The Leader is the student-run newspaper to the students, faculty, and administrators of Elmhurst University. The Leader is not submitted to any person or organization for prior approval. The contents are the decision of the editor in agreement with the editorial board. Opinions expressed in The Leader do not necessarily reflect those of the paper or its staff and are not intended to represent those of the EU at large. No text, photos, or art can be reproduced without direct permission of The Leader.

CONTACT US

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2022

Windle

STUDENT DISQUIET ON THE HORIZON: SILENCING STUDENT LOAN RELIEF TROUBLES EU CAMPUS

Adriana Briscoe (she/her) Opinions Editor

President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan was struck down by a federal judge in Texas on Nov. 10, causing the Department of Education to stop accepting applications for relief.

The Department of Justice appealed this de cision to the 5th U.S Circuit Court of Appeals, but borrowers will have to wait to see how this case will play out.

“For the 26 million borrowers who have al ready given the Department of Education the necessary information to be considered for debt relief – 16 million of whom have already been approved for relief – the Department will hold onto their information so it can quickly process their relief once we prevail in court,” White House Press Secretary Karine JeanPierre said in a statement Nov. 10.

Biden’s plan was to provide $10,000 in debt relief to everyone and $20,000 to those who received a Pell Grant and have an income of $125,000 or lower.

“Our student loan plan lowers costs for Amer icans as they recover from the pandemic to give everybody a little more breathing room,” Biden said in a speech on Oct. 21.

According to Nathan Hancock, director of stu dent financial services, statistics from Elmhurst University’s undergraduate 2021 graduating class showed that 71.86% of them borrowed loans and $22,671 is their average federal loan total (indebtedness), though students with private loans typically have higher debt.

Political science professor Constance Mix on believes that Biden’s attempt to forgive student loans is a step in the right direction. She stated forgiving student loans would go a long way toward helping both students and the economy.

Having mentioned that people defer buying houses, having kids, and more due to crippling student loan debt, she emphasized that public policy solutions to this problem are in order. “If we have a whole generation that’s deferred

that part of their adulthood because of crip pling student loan debt, that’s terrible for our economy,” Mixon said.

Student Ellison Michaels said that while she can understand the decision to strike down the plan from an economic perspective, she also thinks that providing loan forgiveness will help the economy in the long term rather than harm it.

“I think without the loan forgiveness, it’s gonna continue the cycle of poverty,” Michaels said.

“Because if you don’t have a good education, you may not have as good of a job and then generations are going to get affected, so I can see how it can affect the economy.”

Hancock shared some advice for students who are seeking student loan relief.

First, he said students should look at their cur rent financial situation and know where they stand regarding how much they borrowed, what type of loans they borrowed, and whether their parents borrowed loans. He noted that resources like studentaid.gov or the National Student Loan Data System can help students

figure this out.

Second, he urges students to apply for relief as soon as they can and plan ahead to see how much they will need to borrow, not counting on loan forgiveness. Lastly, Hancock wants students to be prepared for repayment.

Having noted that the political climate is vol atile and debt relief plans can be subject to change as a result of that, he advised students to make informed decisions.

“There’s no guarantee that things you’re bor rowing next semester, for example, loans you’re borrowing, are going to be forgiven,” Hancock said. “For all we know, with a different admin istration, there could be sweeping changes.”

Hancock continued, “My advice typically for anybody regardless of forgiveness is to just make sure you know what you’re doing. Talk to a professional — our office is always available to talk about loans. Borrow what you need — don’t overborrow. This is an expensive school, and I know students have to take loans in many cases, but just evaluate ‘what exactly do I need to pay my bills?”

GRAPHIC BY Abbey Mark (she/her)

INTERNATIONAL CLUB REBRANDS TO ELMHURST INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION

Emmy Shaffer (she/her) News Editor

Elmhurst International Student Association (EISA), is helping international students gain familiarity with college life in the United States and providing a support group as they learn to adjust to life in a different country.

Formerly known as the International Club, current President Karam Hasan and VP Marvin Tchangwa realized the club needed to be re structured after noticing that the previous club was more focused on events and provided less services for international students to utilize.

EISA faculty advisor, Foad Saghir, came to El mhurst University as an international student from the UK and was involved with what was formerly the International Club while he was a student.

Once he became the advisor, he wanted to

continue to help international students as they learn to adapt to a new culture.

“I now continue to promote and support all international students through EISA to the best of my ability, and it is fulfilling to witness the growth of their self-confidence, their leadership skills, and their genuine eagerness to engage with people of all walks of life,” said Saghir.

After speaking with Saghir, Hasan and Tchangwa ran for their respective executive board posi tions and saw it as an opportunity to provide services for international students, such as applying for internships, scholarships, as well as on and off campus housing.

With over 260 international students, the largest amount of students EU has ever had, Hasan wanted to create an atmosphere where students felt welcomed and had a place where they belonged, as many international students experienced culture shock.

“We want to build this cohesive international community here at Elmhurst and build this organization where international students can easily find help,” said Hasan. “We want to form a home away from home.”

In order to help students become more fa miliar with the resources EU has to offer, EISA is developing a website for club members to use so everything is all in one place for them to access whenever they like.

“Currently we are working on a website so international students can go there and can find all of the resources or the links that would help them,” said Hasan. “We can save a lot of time and club meetings, because it’s tricky with 260 club members. Whenever they need help they can just go to the website.”

EISA is proud to provide a place where inter national students can feel included and help them be a part of the campus community.

SGA PARTNERS WITH CHANCE THE RAPPER’S NON-PROFIT SOCIALWORKS

Emmy Shaffer (she/her) News Editor

SGA has partnered with SocialWorks, a non-profit organization that aims to raise awareness and provide relief for those experiencing homeless ness and extreme hardships through service, donations, and events.

Every November, the non-profit organizes Warmest Winter, which was started by Chance the Rapper, who grew up in Chicago. Warmest Winter, which was founded in 2015, gathers donations of new or gently used winter clothing items all over the Chicagoland area for those experiencing homelessness.

Javier Gloria, SGA Vice President, contacted SocialWorks to have a donation box put on Elmhurst University’s campus for students and the Elmhurst community to participate in. The box arrived mid-October and is located

in the Frick Center in the stairwell next to the OSI Office.

Gloria looked forward to being able to contrib ute and have the community come together in helping gather clothing materials for those who are unable to acquire it themselves.

“I have always been intrigued with becoming more involved with their organization,” said Gloria in an email to The Leader. “I never had the time to volunteer but once I saw that they were accepting hosts for the donation boxes this year, I immediately applied and within a few days, I got the email that Elmhurst Uni versity got selected.”

He continued, “I am very happy that SGA is able to build bridges with not just local orga nizations but also Chicago ones.”

According to the SocialWorks website, since beginning Warmest Winter, over 156, 378 warming items have been donated.

Daizja Hollman, president of SGA, thought it was an important event to have on campus to allow EU’s community to come together and support those in need.

“I thought it was a good idea because it not only is something students can get involved in but also something to bring the entire El mhurst community together and involved in to help those in need,” said Hollman.

SGA was happy to have had the experience to work with SocialWorks and works forward to working with them in the future.

“To be honest, there was a part of me thinking that we wouldn’t even be able to fill the whole box,” said Gloria. “I have peeked into the box and not only have people made stuff to put in the box, but I also saw toys such as chalk and of course children’s books. My goal now is to fill another one by the next two weeks. his won’t be the last time we collaborate with SocialWorks.”

RELIGIOUS AND INTERFAITH ORGANIZATIONS

HOLD FESTIVITIES TO EDUCATE AND CELEBRATE

Adriana Briscoe (she/her) Opinions Editor

Chaplain Rev. H. Scott Matheney believes that holidays are often rooted in stories of “mystery, salvation, liberation,” and “life,” and that these stories can help us make sense of our lives.

“Regardless of your beliefs, we all can learn about those stories, what they are teaching, and what they represent,” Matheney said in an email to The Leader.

As such, several religious and interfaith groups across campus have found ways to celebrate holidays and traditions on campus during the upcoming holiday season as well as through out the year.

For instance, Elmhurst University senior Ben Bollinger will be speaking at an Elmhurst Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU) meeting in early December to talk about the Christian belief that God has reincarnated into flesh and why Christians believe that is important for salvation.

He stated that he wants to spread awareness about the history behind Christmas.

“I feel like nowadays where Christmas is so commercialized and turned into a Hallmark holiday where it’s all about just presents and family and fun,” Bollinger said.

He continued, “As a Christian organization, we want to acknowledge the goodness of all of that of course but also realize that there is a reason why Christians have historically set this day apart from other days.”

Other religious organizations have a similar goal of educating people about their faiths.

For example, the Muslim Student Association (MSA) and Spiritual Life Council (SLC) held an Iftar, a meal in which Muslims break their fast for Ramadan, last year.

According to third-year student Afrah Ahmed, Vice President of MSA, the purpose of the Iftar was to celebrate the breaking of the fast and educate people on its importance.

MSA also held a potluck last year to celebrate Eid-al-Fitr, and Ahmed explained that she enjoys seeing people benefit from such gatherings.

“As someone who gets to organize and sort of be a part of these events, I feel like the reward of being able to see other people, enjoy these events, get something out of these events, learn more, make new friends out of it — I see that, and it’s something that just feels really rewarding,” Ahmed said.

Senior Nolan Fraaza, President of Every Nation Campus (ENC), attended MSA’s Iftar last year and felt inspired to organize an upcoming Christmas dinner, which is set to take place this year on Dec. 5 from 6-8 p.m. in the Alex ander Room.

“It [the Iftar] was great,” Fraaza said. “I learned a ton about the faith, I learned a ton about Ra madan and Iftar because of it, and I thought it was just such a great event that helped educate people on their faith and their religion, and I thought there should be something similar [for ENC] I took a lot of inspiration from what they did for it.”

Matheney also noted the importance of ed ucation about various faiths, emphasizing “religious literacy” as an important part of honoring different holidays on campus.

In addition, SLC is partnering with several

organizations to help them organize their festivities.

Senior Grace Wadsworth, President of SLC, stated that SLC is working with Hillel to coor dinate a Hanukkah event and a few Christian groups to coordinate the Christmas dinner.

Additionally, SLC is having an end-of-the-year celebration to celebrate different holidays with a dinner at the Chaplain’s house.

Wadsworth said that the goal of religious and interfaith events is two-fold.

“A lot of it is creating a space on campus for students who celebrate those things to do so with their peers,” Wadsworth said. “... But it’s also an educational event to come and learn more about your religion or about other religions.”

Matheney believes religious stories and cel ebrations can help bind everyone together.

“All stories have a purpose… to bring freedom and joy,” Matheney said. “And these religious holidays help us remember we are loved, worth more than our grades. And that our life has purpose and meaning.”

JAYS ON THE STREET

Miguel Flojo (he/him) Staff Writer

PHOTOS BY Miguel Flojo (he/him)

GRAPHIC BY Abbey Mark (she/her)

BOX OFFICES GET A SUPERHERO BATTLE THIS FALL WITH NEW DC AND MARVEL MOVIES

Gabriel E. Galindo (he/him) Staff Writer

Spoilers ahead.

This fall season, the two comic book titans DC Comics and MARVEL released their most anticipated films of the year: “Black Adam” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

Fans of both franchises have been waiting for these films, dating back to before the pandemic and before their launch date. However, both films fared differently upon screening.

Released on Oct. 21 ”Black Adam” centers around the antihero and former Shazam villain, Teth Adam, played by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Adam is released from a magic prison by an archeologist to free the nation of Kahndaq from a crime syndicate known as Intergang. The movie also featured the Justice Society of America (JSA) on screen for the first time.

For those not familiar with DC characters and teams, the JSA is the predecessor of the Justice League and the first official superhero team ever created, dating back to World War 2. Its roster consisted of the original Flash and Green Lantern, as well as Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Sandman, and the Atom.

The version portrayed in the film has Dr. Fate, played by Pierce Brosnan, Hawkman, Cyclone, granddaughter of the original Red Tornado, and Atom Smasher, godson of the original Atom, and DC’s analog to Ant-Man.

Marvel fans would be quick to point out that Fate is the analog of Dr. Strange, and it’s no surprise that Brosnan was inspired by Benedict Cumberbatch’s take on the Sorcerer Supreme in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

Overall, the film does well in terms of action, visuals, and special effects; however, its editing comes off at moments.

For example, Black Adam has a fight sequence against Hawkman, and it spliced up terribly, with rapid cutting between blows and DC merchandise. One moment, you see Adam being punched by the guy, and next, you see

a Superman poster getting shredded. A digital media student from Elmhurst Uni versity could’ve done a better job editing that sequence.

Most of the scenery and other sequences did fare better, but Johnson comes off stiff when portraying the title antihero. It’s a far contrast from all the previous acting roles he’s had before, which had more personality and life. There isn’t much character development present in the film. The only glimpse the audience gets of who Black Adam is is when his backstory is addressed, and that’s it.

Would I consider “Black Adam” a strong entry for DC? Sort of. The film does have good and bad moments, but it’s still worth watching.

However, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is a whole other story. The title lead, Black Panther, is gone with the death of Chadwick Boseman in 2020.

Director Ryan Coogler has stated in previous interviews that this film is in honor of the be loved actor, while MCU producer Kevin Fiege has confirmed that the character would retire and not be recast with respect to the actor’s passing.

Melancholy and grief are the main tones of the film, as evident in the first scenes. They acknowledge the passing of Prince T’Challa, the Black Panther, that has appeared through out the third phase of the Infinity Saga up to its conclusion.

With Wakanda’s protector gone, the nation is now in the hands of his sister, Princess Shuri, played by Leticia Wright, and the rest of the cast from the original film.

The film’s hidden antagonist is an anti-hero, more than a villain known as Namor, played by Mexican actor Tenoch Huerta. Namor is the aquatic ruler of Atlantis, the occasional frenemy of the Fantastic Four, and the first mutant created, predating the X-Men.

To avoid confusion with DC’s Aquaman, Coogler updated his backstory, changing it from At lantis to Talokan, an underwater civilization of Mayan origin.

This update brought a whole new meaning to the myth of Atlantis, given that the tale of an underwater city has existed through different mythologies across the world, including the Mesoamerican realm of Tlalocan, on which the movie is based on.

Armed with a Mayan headdress and referring to himself as the serpent god Kukulkan, Huer ta portrays this ruler as a godlike protector, looking out for his people just as much as T’Challa would have done, but with a drive for vengeance against the surface world.

It’s a clash of cultures — Africa vs Mesoamerica and land vs sea.

With amazing choreography and a stunning score that mixes African and Mayan/Aztec rhythms, as well as lavish costume work, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” does justice to Boseman’s name and portrayal.

It also does well in addressing its audience that it is time to move and accept the next mantle and stage of not just Black Panther but the MCU as well.

Since its release on Nov. 11, it has reached great acclaim these past few days, but also harsh criticism.

One critique is of Namor’s Mayan update, and Huerta’s physique, as well as uptight Mexican actors attacking the actor for being “too brown.”

There also is Leticia Wright’s COVID-19 com ments that stirred some controversy in pro duction, but overall this changed nothing throughout the film or its overwhelmingly positive reception.

When comparing these two films, it all comes down to narrative, editing, and acting as key factors.

“Black Adam” did well in introducing the char acter and the classic WW2 superhero team, but didn’t quite execute a cohesive plot that would develop the character. The Rock was literally stiff as a rock when portraying the champion of Kahndaq.

There wasn’t much development to his identity or challenges other than the “good guys don’t kill” rule. Comparing this antihero to Namor is a huge difference.

Namor’s backstory and motives get challenged through Shuri and the Wakandans; we visually see and understand where he comes from but can’t agree with his methods.

On top of that, DC didn’t even have an identi

fiable antagonist; it switched from Intergang to a demonic Shazam at the last second. Also, Marvel didn’t oversaturate its fight sequences with merchandise to promote.

Arguably, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” delivered the better movie this year. From the music to the costumes to the choreogra phy, and even its use of representation, Ryan Coogler truly delivered a film that honored Chadwick while telling the audience to keep moving forward.

“Black Adam,” on the other hand, does give us the typical Johnson action punch, a set of cameos and characters that might connect the film to its tangled DC Extended Universe but lacks character growth.

DC Comics and MARVEL made great additions to their film universes, but “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” executed the story and narrative better than “Black Adam.”

INTERNET PHOTOS

GRAPHIC BY Rachel Fratt (she/her)

DJ, PUT THE K-POP HITS OF 2022 BACK ON

Ryan Windle (they/he) Editor-in-Chief

As Elmhurst University’s local K-Pop stan, it is needless to say that the fruits of this year’s music have been plentiful. It seems as if every week a new girl group comes up on the scene and makes history. These stellar new hits prove Y2K is back and better than ever, slotting in seamlessly along side the other bodies of work.

Girl groups dominated this year, period. Finally, the spotlight has shined on these hard-working women; if you think of a hit from this year, I can guarantee you that it was from a girl group.

2022 has not officially ended, and there is still more music to come. While it’s upsetting that I will not be able to cover Red Velvet, Itzy, BoA, and more in my column, now is the time to reminisce.

As challenging as it is to rank the top five most memorable K-Pop songs, here is my list to wrap up 2022.

“In My Dreams” — Red Velvet

Released in late March, “The ReVe Festival 2022 - Feel My Rhythm” has stood the test of time, and it is the most memorable mini-album from the year.

Taking classical music, and giving it a K-Pop twist, was a breath of fresh air. Each song was exciting, and not one single song on this album falters from pure excellence.

“In My Dreams” is the song of the album. The deep meaning of only finding love in your dreams, and creating a fantasy world with someone, really hits home for me. It seems as if whenever I am sad, I can put this song on, and be transported to a new reality.

I cry to this song frequently. Even after all of this year’s releases, there is something prev alent about the mini album that makes me always come back. It was a refresh for K-Pop and started the year off on a good foot.

“Glitch”

— KWON EUN BI

I have introduced so many people to K-Pop with this song, and every single time, they say they never knew that K-Pop was this good.

KWON EUN BI had one chance to make it big

after her first single “Door” slammed in her face, and she came back with a vengeance with “Glitch.”

This song has been a hidden gem for me that I continue to try to share with as many people as I can. It is hyper-pop at its finest and blends genres seamlessly.

What was achieved here needs to be studied by Harvard University. The slay was too fierce, and if you get it, you get it and if you don’t, I’m sorry.

“Flip That” — LOONA

It’s not that “Flip That” was the most ground breaking song to hit the scene, but it truly was the song of my summer. Every time this song plays, I am instantly reminded of brightness and joy.

It’s different from LOONA’s distinct sound, which is why it stands out. Most times, LOONA is as sociated with a more girl-crush sound, and this ethereal song was very welcomed, especially after their appearance on “QUEENDOM 2.”

Hopefully, after the success of this song LOO NA will become more mainstream and finally get the recognition that is long deserved for my favorite moon girls.

Also, I just want to brag that I got to see LOO NA live; while the concert was not the most pleasant, I still was in the presence of Vivi, and that was a highlight of 2022 for me.

“Hype Boy” — NewJeans

When NewJeans hit the scene, this is when Y2K was at its peak for K-Pop. Their debut was unexpected, yet needed.

The beginning of the song sounds like a You Tube introduction, but what follows is capti vating. Honestly, any song from NewJeans is a delight to listen to, but for me, “Hype Boy” takes the cake.

It’s dynamic to listen to, but not overbearing. The build to the chorus really gets you hype, boy.

The song is too good. If this is the future of K-Pop, I will need to reapply for my stan card because I will need this music to function properly.

“

ANTIFRAGILE” — LE SSERAFIM

After their debut single “FEARLESS” dropped, I

was fearful for the future of LE SSERAFIM; but “ANTIFRAGILE” exceeded my expectations, and has been on repeat ever since its release last month.

It is always exciting when K-Pop goes in an unexpected direction, and this song was that. Influence from reggaeton and Latin music truly made this song stand out, as not many artists branch in this direction.

The chorus is an earworm, and I often am doing random parts of the dance out of nowhere due to how this song lives in my head rent-free. While a meteor may have taken LE SSERAFIM out at the end of the music video, I know this group will rise from the ashes into success.

INTERNET PHOTO

This year has definitely remember, and music has Enjoy a selection of our favorite and scan the code to check

definitely been one to has gotten us through it all. favorite songs from the year, check out the full playlist.

GRAPHIC BY Abbey Mark (she/her)

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR THESE HOLIDAY CLASSICS

Sarah Glees (she/her) Staff Writer

The holidays are right around the corner, which means it’s time for cozy movie nights in. This time of year has brought so many memories to me, and I have numerous holiday films and T.V. classics that need sharing.

My Favorite Christmas Movie: “Eloise at Christmastime” (2003)

There’s a good chance that I’m the only person who’s ever seen this movie which is truly a disservice considering how good it is.

The film is based on a book series that began in 1955, and the movie itself is a follow-up to “Eloise at the Plaza.“ However, you don’t need to see it to enjoy “Eloise at Christmastime.”

The movie follows Eloise, a six-year-old girl who lives at the plaza hotel with her Nanny, played by the one and only Julie An drews. Eloise is constantly finding inventive ways to entertain herself and this often leads to trouble.

At her core, though, she’s good-intentioned and always looking to help. In the case of this film, she’s looking to help as she dives into the role of matchmaker.

Eloise hopes to rekindle the romance between a waiter who works at the hotel and the hotel owner’s daughter. However, the deadline to do so is Christmas Eve, as this is when the hotel owner’s daughter is to be married to another man, who Eloise finds suspicious.

This movie has everything you could want in a Christmas spectacular. It has singing and dancing. It has a star-crossed lover’s ro mance. It has forgery, fraud, and extortion. It has a pug in a tutu. It has a suspenseful kidnapping. It even has a Christmas shopping montage that includes the New York City Toy R Us. This movie somehow manages to have it all including entrancing you in the Christmas Spirit.

My Favorite Christmas Classic: “It’s a Won derful Life” (1946)

This is the epitome of a Christmas classic; however, I’ve come to learn that many of

my friends haven’t seen it.

Since I was a child I found myself watching this film, and I honestly hated it growing up. It wasn’t until I saw it in high school for the first time in many years that I fell in love.

The story follows George Bailey, a banker during the Great Depression who is drowning in struggles, and on Christmas Eve is considering taking his own life. He’s visited, however, by a guardian angel who shows him what his life would be like if he’d never existed.

It’s an extremely heartwarming and tear-jerking movie that holds up despite being decades old. As George Bailey re-experiences his life, the audience also lives through those mo ments and in the end gets a true sense of the Christmas spirit.

My Favorite Unconventional Santa Story: “Klaus” (2019)

I saw this unconventional Santa origin for the first time last year, and it has immediately become one of my favorites.

Set in 19th-century Norway, the story follows Jesper Johansson, the son of the Royal Postmaster General, who’s spoiled, lazy, and the worst student at the postmaster academy.

In order to teach him a lesson, his father sends him to a frozen town with the task of posting six thousand letters in a year or risk being cut off from the family fortune.

However, upon arrival, Jesper learns that the town is inhabited by two feuding family clans who are too busy fighting to write letters. Soon, however, Jesper finds hope in a reclusive toy maker named Klaus.

There’s a plethora of stories about Santa out there; however, this one really stands out due to its truly unique view. So, if you’re tired of the classic Christmas stories or just looking for something new I recommend “Klaus.”

My Favorite Holiday Food Network Show: “Gingerbread Showdown”

People build a crazy variety of structures, some even with moving pieces, all out of gingerbread, need I say more?

My Favorite TV Christmas Episode: “The Nanny” Season One Episode Eight

“The Nanny” is my go-to comfort show and

every season I love rewatching all the Christ mas episodes, but this first one is my favorite. The episode follows Fran (the nanny) as she finds herself trying to compensate after over spending on gifts while also trying to provide the Sheffield children with the best Christmas she can as their father has to travel for the holiday.

My Favorite TV Show Christmas Special: “Arthur’s Perfect Christmas” (2000)

If you were like me and grew up in the early 2000s without cable, then there’s a good chance you remember “Arthur’s Perfect Christmas” playing on PBS each holiday season.

The special follows Arthur and his friends as they each navigate the holiday season. This special also looks at some of the celebrations aside from Christmas such as Hanuk kah, Kwanzaa, and even Saint Lucia Day.

Warning: the song “Tina the Talking Tabby” will get stuck in your head.

More Winter Favorites: “When Harry Met Sally…” (1989)

This movie fol lows Sally and Harry, two char acters that disagree over the question of whether or not men and women can be platonic friends. The story follows the events that follow this first meeting as their paths manage to keep crossing.

All the holiday festivities happening in the movie make it a perfect winter watch.

“About Time” (2013)

This movie follows the story of a man who learns that he can travel back in time and as a result utilizes it to try and improve his life. Parts of it take place during New Year’s Eve and the fantastical elements make it a great winter watch.

“I, Tonya” (2017)

This is a mockumentary black comedy that loosely tells the story of Tonya Harding. “I, To nya” is honestly just one of my favorite movies and much of it takes place on ice and during the Winter Olympics, so it counts.

Harry Potter Series

(2001-2011)

There’s something about the adorably ugly clothing Mrs. Weasley seems to make every year, the overly elaborate Yule Ball where 14-year-olds are awkwardly forced to dance with each other, and the sickening amounts of butterbeer they drink that just fit in perfectly with this winter watchlist.

BY Abbey Mark (she/her)

Aleena Antony (she/her) Staff Writer

On Nov. 7, officers responded to a call from the Goodtimes Hotel about influencer Nikita Dragun acting disorderly, leading to her sub sequent arrest.

Dragun was charged with felony battery for assaulting an officer, a misdemeanor for disor derly conduct, and a violation of a municipal ordinance. On the Miami-Dade County Clerk’s Office, it indicates that during the processing, Dragun was misgendered and listed as a male.

Dragun is a controversial transgender influ encer with millions of followers across various platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, and Tiktok. After a string of arrests, she has recently discussed her struggles with her recent di

PURPOSEFUL TRANSPHOBIA JEOPARDIZES SAFETY OF TRANSWOMEN

agnosis of bipolar disorder and her search for treatment.

At the Goodtimes Hotel, police responded to a call from hotel staff of Dragun walking around undressed, refusing to comply with staff.

When the police came to the hotel, Dragun was in her room playing loud music, continuing to be a disturbance.

Dragun was not quick to open the door, and when officers demanded she open her door again after slamming it in their faces she “pro ceeded to swing an open water bottle causing the water to hit and spill on both the security guards Mr. Bazile and Officer Gonzalez,” as indicated in the affidavit.

Dragun was charged with felony battery on a police officer, misdemeanor battery, and misdemeanor disorderly conduct. Dragun was placed in jail under possible bond release.

Screenshots of the affidavit purposefully mis gendering Dragun were posted on Twitter by

NBC

News Tech and Culture Reporter Kat Tenbarge. It states that, “the above-listed individual appears as a female but would like to be rec ognized as a male.”

During Dragun’s bond court hearing, Judge Mindy Sue Glazer asked Dragun, “What would you like to be referred to as?”

When discussing Dragun’s bond amount, Dragun asked the judge, “Do I have to stay in the men’s unit still?”

Judge Glazer responded with, “Yeah I don’t make the rules up there.”

Judge Glazer advised Dragun to speak with the bondsman for proper accommodations and asked to have in the file for a follow-up on Dragun’s updated accommodations.

After posting her bond of $5,000, Dragun is now released with her arrangement hearing in Miami scheduled for Dec. 7.

SELENA GOMEZ’S PETTY FEUD WITH LIFE-SAVING KIDNEY DONOR

Aleena Antony (she/her) Staff Writer

Selena Gomez prolongs her public fallout with Francia Raisa, her best friend and kidney donor, with a surprising comment on TikTok. These back-and-forth comments took place after the release of Gomez’s documentary, “Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me,” where Go mez said her only friend in the industry was Taylor Swift.

After the Nov. 2 release of her documentary, Rolling Stones published an interview on Nov. 3 with Gomez, who opens up about her friend ships in the music industry, indicating that she

considers Taylor Swift as her only friend in the industry.

When this was shared on Twitter, Raisa com mented, “Interesting” in a now-deleted tweet.

On Nov. 6, Gomez commented under a TikTok discussing the possible drama, as well as the noticeable absence of Raisa, stating, “Sorry I didn’t mention every person I know.”

Gomez and Raisa instantly connected after they met in 2007 and have been friends ever since. Not long after meeting, and three years after Gomez’s diagnosis, Gomez needed a kidney transplant.

Raisa said she would check if she was a match, and once learning that she was, Raisa underwent the surgery to donate her kidney to Gomez.

Other than having a permanent scar, Raisa’s life was greatly altered due to losing an organ. Before her surgery, Raisa did not consider the consequences when losing her kidney, as in dicated in her 2018 SELF magazine interview, where she said that she, “Wasn’t educated on kidney surgery.”

Raisa did not realize the scope of the surgery until speaking with her social worker.

“She told me, ‘It’s going to be hard. The recipient is going to glow, and she’s going to recover a lot faster than the donor is because she’s getting something she needs. You’re losing something you don’t need to lose. It’s going to be hard.’ And it was very hard.”

GRAPHIC

CARTOON BY Delanie Graziano (she/her)

CARTOON BY Selkie Bodmer (they/them)

EDITORIAL

ITS THE FINALS COUNTDOWN: REMEMBER YOUR GRADES DO NOT DEFINE YOU

‘Tis the season for students to be frantically consulting RogerHub to see how well they have to do on their finals to get the grades they want in their classes.

Or is it?

You see, grades aren’t as important as we’re often told. Before you go down the obsessive grade-checking rabbit hole this year, remem ber that while grades are important, they don’t define you by any means.

Grades don’t measure your intelligence or capabilities – they only measure how well you performed on specific assignments at specific points in time. They also tend to reflect how many assignments you completed, how much you prepared for exams, and how much effort you put into understanding course material, but that’s about it.

Put this way, it’s easier to see your grades from a more realistic perspective — they’re only a measurement of what you did, not who you are.

It can be easy to think that grades mean ev erything when we grew up in a competitive environment that pushed us to get straight As, take as many honors courses as possible, and make the honor roll.

This societal pressure causes many students to falsely believe that they’re only worthy of validation and approval when they’re over achieving.

But this could not be further from the truth — you’re worthy enough as you are. You have a unique set of traits, strengths, and quirks that make up who you are, and just the fact that you’re a human being existing on this planet means you’re worthy of love and validation.

You should never feel like you have to achieve results to prove yourself to other people. If you feel like you’re constantly chasing perfect grades and seeking academic validation, try to step back and ask yourself why.

Perhaps you had parents and teachers who had high standards for you as a child, or maybe you bury yourself in your schoolwork to avoid coming to terms with feelings of unworthiness, incom pleteness, or loneliness.

Whatever your reasons for overachieving may be, please know that while your accomplish ments are admirable and should be celebrated, your value as a person goes far beyond what you can accomplish.

If your life were a cake, anything you achieve or produce should solely be icing on the cake — the heart of the cake should be loving yourself and others, and living a life true to yourself and your values.

With this in mind, we en courage you to take a more

balanced, realistic approach to schoolwork. Do the best you can at this moment in time, but also make time for rest and relaxation as well — your holistic well-being is much more important than getting good grades.

Additionally, if you are experiencing any strug gles that are interfering with your academic performance, have an honest conversation with your professors if you feel comfortable doing so.

In most cases, professors are more than happy to work with you and want to see you succeed, and they would rather you speak openly about your questions and concerns than shove them under the rug.

You should also stay in touch with family, friends, and/or support groups at this time. Connecting with people can help you destress, and if you’re having any difficulties, you can confide in them and get the social and emo tional support you need.

Take care of yourself, reach out for help, and maybe, just maybe, try not to check RogerHub so much this year.

Letter to Editor Submissions

Letters to the editor can be submitted below or sent to leadernewsec@gmail.com. Letters must include your full name and Elmhurst University affiliation. All letters should be 300 words or less in length. The editors retain the right to edit letters before publication. Don’t forget to spell-check. The Leader is the student-run newspaper speaking to students, faculty and administrators of Elmhurst University. The Leader is not submitted to any person or organization for prior approval. The contents are the decision of the editor in agreement with the editorial board. Opinions expressed in The Leader do not necessarily reflect those of the paper or its staff, and are not intended to represent those of EU at-large. All text, photos and art cannot be reproduced without direct permission of The Leader.

IF YOU SAY THE CLOSET IS MADE OF GLASS, THEN WHY ARE YOU KNOCKING SO HARD?

Ryan Windle (they/he) Editor-in-Chief

There is no official definition for the term queer baiting; however, a quick Google search will show you that it is “a marketing technique for fiction and entertainment in which creators hint at, but then do not depict, same-sex romance or other LGBTQ+ representation.”

The word queerbaiting has become more popular in recent years, but it has mostly been used in the wrong context to guilt people for being fluid with their sexuality.

This word has been thrown around constantly toward celebrities, most notably Harry Styles, Charlie Puth, and recently, Kit Connor, who felt forced to come out as bisexual due to many fans of “Heartstopper” saying that Connor was queerbaiting his audience.

Cancel culture is at its peak right now, and queerbaiting has now become a clickbait phrase used to guilt or force people out of the closet in an attempt to avoid being canceled for “pandering” to an LGBTQ+ audience.

Queerbaiting has become a weapon against anyone deviating from norms or experimenting with their image. While it is hurtful to assume the mannerisms of the queer community for profit, you do not know the intention of an individual. It is their life, and they are allowed to express themselves in whichever way they please.

You don’t know what someone else is going through on the inside. A critique of brands pandering to and appropriating queer culture is worth discussing, but sometimes it is not safe for an individual in a highly heteronor mative industry to express themself as freely as they desire.

Many individuals may think that calling out celebrities for queerbaiting is defending the community, but the exact opposite occurs. When the term gets thrown around, it is actively hurting members of the LGBTQ+ community who may not be ready to come out.

With the weaponization of queerbaiting, an individual’s ability to be fluid with their gender

and sexuality seems to be a thing of the past. There is a high demand for such a personal element of another human being.

Everyone is free to express themselves and should not have to face backlash from followers online. Living in fear of what others may think can halt these self-discovery efforts and may put people further into the closet.

When people start attacking others and saying that they feel misled, or that an individual is “gatekeeping” information from everyone, it can make people feel trapped and will cause them to refrain from their experimentation.

No one owes you their sexuality, and guilting others into coming out is prob lematic, especially when coming from people who know the struggles of coming out themselves.

One of the most beautiful things in the world is the fluidity of gender and sexuality. There is never a definitive answer to what one’s sex uality entails; it is an ev er-changing self-discov ery jour ney, and it is pre cious. Peo ple are

It is important that there is representation in media, but forcing this representation does a disservice to the actual members of the community who are out and proud, as well as people who strive to include LGBTQ+ people in their work.

In a world where it is scary to be an out and proud member, being fluid and changing societal norms is something that we need to be celebrating, not tearing down.

desperate for queer representa tion in media and pop culture. Everyone wants to relate to someone and wants to have a celebrity or character that they feel best represents them.

GRAPHIC BY Abbey Mark (she/her)

BLUEJAY BUZZER: ELMHURST SPORTS RECAP

BOWLING

The Elmhurst University sports recap of the last two weeks, Oct. 9 - Oct. 22.

The Elmhurst University sports recap of the last two weeks, Nov. 6 - 19.

Nov. 9 vs. Dominican University L, 2-1 Game 1 880-735, Game 2 795779, Game 3 730-795

WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY

Nov. 12 at NCAA Region al Championship 16th of 29 teams

FOOTBALL

Nov. 12 vs. Illinois Wesleyan University L, 21-17

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

NOV. 8 AT AURORA UNIVERSITY L, 80-75

NOV. 11 VS. UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSINPLATTEVILLE L, 58-46

NOV. 12 VS. HANOVER COLLEGE L, 78-55

NOV. 16 VS. LORAS COLLEGE L, 83-56

WRESTLING

Nov. 10 at Augustana College L, 20-19

Nov. 19 vs. Concordia University Wisconsin Open No Team Score

MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY

Nov. 12 at NCAA Regional Championship 21 of 32 teams

MEN’S BASKETBALL

NOV. 10 VS. TRANSYLVANIA UNIVERSITY W, 97-68

NOV. 12 AT ALMA COLLEGE W, 110-74

NOV. 16 AT MARIAN UNIVERSITY W, 86-68

NOV. 19 AT BUENA VISTA UNIVERSITY W, 88-60

Alyssa Kuehne (she/her) Sports Editor

BLUEJAYS FLY BACK HOME IN BASKETBALL SEASON OPENER AGAINST TRANSYLVANIA

Sante Dybowski (he/him) Staff Writer

As the audience packed into the stands of R.A. Faganel Hall on Nov. 10 for the Elmhurst University men’s basketball team’s first game of the season against Transylvania University, the feeling of trepidation was high over how this season will follow up to last year.

The lights go dark and last season’s runner-up national champion team is seen on the center court, along with a reveal of the 2022 NCAA national runner-up banner that now hangs on the west end of R.A. Faganel Hall.

Looking at players such as graduates Jake Rhode and Lavon Thomas, there is a wonder of how we are going to replace those big names and match up to the record-breaking 27 wins last year’s team achieved.

The no. 23 ranked Elmhurst men’s basketball team undeniably heard all the doubters and knew that they had a lot of people to prove wrong entering this game.

Returning players such as captains Wesley Hooker and Ocean Johnson are expected to be key contributors to the Bluejays offense and to continue their success from last year.

Hooker feels the pressure of losing Rhode and Thomas going into this season, but he is confident in his ability to lead the team as a senior and as one of the captains.

“Going into this season I just knew everything

would be on me as I have been a part of the success Elmhurst has had from 2019 to now,” Hooker said.

He continued, “I learned so much about the game from watching and playing alongside great players like those two and others and being able to show the knowledge I absorbed from them has been the biggest thing for me.”

Hooker managed to score 21 points throughout the game, including two 3-pointers.

Fellow captain Johnson was also a leader for the game against Transylvania with 27 points and 5 three pointers.

Some of the newcomers helped Hooker and Thomas contribute to the board.

Junior John Ittounas is a transfer from Triton College; he started for the Bluejays as a guard against the Pioneers and played as if he had been part of the team for years.

Another new face to the Bluejay court is forward Anthony Scales, who transferred from Lake Land College. Ittounas and Scales scored a total of 21 points combined.

Along with all the offensive threats the Bluejays have this season, the defense looks to be held down by the 6’6 senior, Jonathan Zapinski.

Zapinski had three blocks and 12 rebounds and played a physical brand of defense that made opposing teams fear coming into the paint.

Despite a very dominant and fast-paced first half, the Bluejays left the court at halftime only leading by one, with a score of 41-40.

Head coach John Baines’ halftime speech had to have been a good one. The Bluejays jumped to a 15-point lead halfway through the second quarter, and did not let Transyl vania continue the back-and-forth from the first quarter.

The Bluejays sent Transylvania on a long bus ride home with a final score of 97-68.

The Bluejays shut down some doubters after that first game, but there is still a lot more for this team to do as the season progresses to get out of the national runner-up team’s shadow.

Along with all the offensive threats the Bluejays have this season, the defense looks to be held down by the 6’6 senior, Jonathan Zapinski.

Zapinski had three blocks and 12 rebounds and played a physical brand of defense that made opposing teams fear coming into the paint.

Despite a very dominant and fast paced first half, the Jays left the court at halftime only leading by one, with a score of 41-40.

Head coach John Baines’ halftime speech had to have been a good one. The Jays jumped to a 15-point lead halfway through the second quarter, and did not let Transylvania continue the back-and-forth from the first quarter.

The Bluejays sent Transylvania on a long bus ride home with a final score of 97-68.

The Bluejays shut down some doubters after that first game, but there is still a lot more for this team to do as the season progresses to get out of the national runner-up team’s shadow.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY Elmhurst University Athletics

ELMHURST UNIVERSITY BLUEJAYS GO FLIGHTLESS IN 2022 FOOTBALL SEASON

David Castañeda (he/him) Staff Writer

The Elmhurst University football team could not hold off the Illinois Wesleyan University Titans at the last football game of the season on Nov. 12, losing 27-17 and keeping Elmhurst winless in the 2022 season.

Going into halftime it appeared as though Elmhurst was going to get their first victory of the season as they led 14-7.

The Bluejay’s lead was set up from big plays through the air. Quarterback Andrey Acosta threw a 50-yard touchdown to wide receiver Max McCarville on their opening drive for the first touchdown.

Later in the first quarter, the Bluejays com pleted a 43-yard bomb to set up a rushing touchdown from running back Isaiah Presley. The Titans finally woke up in the second quarter when they scored 21 unanswered points and shut down the Bluejays’ offense for the rest of the game, only letting through a field goal late in the fourth.

The Titans were led by running backs Seth Albin and Ian Kroemer; Albin ran for 76 yards on 12 attempts and Kroemer ran for 71 yards

on 24 attempts. As a team, they rushed for 169 yards total and one rushing touchdown.

“They came out running the ball in the second half and we couldn’t figure out how to stop it until late in the 4th quarter,” said Jake Masco, a senior linebacker for the Bluejays.

The Bluejays didn’t just lose the game, but they also lost their coaching staff. Head Coach Jeff McDonald stepped down Sunday after the game.

The recruiting process for a new coach has not started yet, but returning players such as Jake Masco are confident that Athletic Director Glen Brittich will find a new coach that can bring Elmhurst back to a winning culture.

“I’m feeling really confident that Athletic Di rector Brittich will do his very best to bring in someone who can bring winning back to Elmhurst football,” said Masco, who is returning for a fifth year.

Masco isn’t the only player coming back. Star linebacker and CCIW first-team player, senior Bryce Gable is also returning to Elmhurst University and hopes he can play a major role in turning around the program with the new coach.

“I’m hoping we can find a coaching staff that

is relentless and wants to win at all costs and that I can make a long-lasting impact to turn this program around,” said Gable.

Returning upperclassmen, such as Gable and Masco, are hopeful for the next season, as there were many positives to take away from the season and from the last game.

“We’re a very young team, lots of freshmen were on the field this year,” said Gable. “I felt like we looked like a CCIW football team out there and it felt good.”

One of those freshmen was Acosta. He played in six games and finished his freshman year with a 100.44 passer rating, 44.16% comple tion rating, and 883 passing yards with five touchdowns and two interceptions.

There was a lot of hope for this season with the group of strong freshmen added to the lineup, as well as the addition of offensive line coach Tony Shiffman over the summer, but the season did not go as planned.

While there were a lot of successful moments, like making Acosta the starting quarterback, and close games, like the double overtime game against Carroll University, the Bluejays struggled offensively and defensively through out the course of the year and left the field with a 0-10 season record.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY Elmhurst University Athletics

PHOTO PROVIDED BY Elmhurst University Athletics

ELMHURST UNIVERSITY TRACK AND FIELD CHANGES UP THE NEST WITH NEW COACH

Alyssa Kuehne (she/her) Sports Editor

Track and field season is just around the corner ,and the Elmhurst University track and field team has made some changes to the lineup.

The team gained a new coach in September, Tyler Sheehan. He joined the staff as an assis tant coach and has started training the men and women’s teams in sprints and hurdles.

A North Central College alum and a past coach for North Central’s track and field team, Shee han is looking forward to staying in the CCIW. “From being in the CCIW the last five years, to really see the turn around of this program, we could see it coming.” said Sheehan, “To see it happen last year was pretty remarkable and it seemed like what [Head Coach] Jordan [Bartolazzi] and [Assistant Head Coach] David [Stone] had going on here seemed like a great place to be a part of to continue to help them go and achieve different goals.”

The Bluejays have been steadily progressing since Bartolazzi became head coach of the women’s cross country and track and field teams in 2017 and taking over the men’s pro grams in 2019.

Last year, the women’s track and field team went from a fifth place finish at the CCIW Championships in 2021 to a second place finish, with seven members of both teams qualifying to the NCAA National Championships.

Sheehan hopes to add to that progress with the coaching experience he has gained. His first coaching job was at St. Charles East High School in 2011 right out of graduating and running for North Central.

“I wanted to stay involved with track and field, so I’m like ‘Alright, I’ll get into coaching high school’ because I wanted other people to have a similar experience I had.” said Sheehan.

He continued to coach at the high school level until trying out collegiate coaching as an as sistant coach in 2015. Sheehan had coached sprints, hurdles, and jumps at Anderson Uni versity in South Carolina for a year. .

Throughout high school and college, Sheehan has raced sprinting events such as the 200m and 400m, but he did not have hurdling ex perience until Anderson. He has worked hard to figure out his coaching style of hurdles over the last six years, getting advice from other hurdles coaches, going to clinics, and researching the event.

After adding hurdles to his repertoire, Sheehan

came back to Illinois in 2016 and volunteered as a high school coach before joining the North Central coaching staff in 2017.

He coached at North Central for five years before joining our Bluejay staff. During his time with the North Central staff, he also decided to get his master’s degree in sports management to help him “make college coaching [his] life”.

Sheehan has taken on coaching the hurdle and sprint events from Stone, who was also a part of the coaching changes.

Stone was promoted to assistant head coach in October from his assistant coach title he has had for the past four years on the Bluejay staff.

Stone has had a lot of success in coaching the sprinting, hurdles, and jumps, and he will have Sheehan’s help to help the team progress even more this season.

A few other changes were the addition of Graduate Assistant Coaches Andrew Ma tuszewski and Jillian Cole, who are GAs on the cross country team as well, after the loss of the assistant coach of cross country and track and field, Mollie Dalton.

Cole is a graduate from Illinois Wesleyan University where she ran cross country and track and field, and Matuszewski ran for the Bluejay’s cross country and track teams.

Dalton also started her coaching career as a GA for the Elmhurst cross country and track teams before being hired as an assistant coach in 2019. She has moved to coaching distance for Illinois State at the start of this year.

With all these changes, we’ll see how it affects the progression of the Bluejays track and field program. Sheehan has already shown how he awaits it.

“I look forward to getting to know everyone, build bonds with them all, and help them achieve some of their goals,” said Sheehan.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY Elmhurst University Athletics

Check out this year’s edition of MiddleWestern Voice across campus now.

Submissions for next year’s edition are now open. Have your own original writing, art, and music considered for publication.

For artists, scan this link for information.

Submissions are due Dec. 22 at midnight.

For writers, scan this link for information.

Submissions are due Dec 16.