DU Clarion Volume 126 Issue 7

Top Stories: A&L: Interview with incoming freshman, Lucy Richardson O: Final part of DWN: looking forward

DU Clarion [www.duclarion.com]

May 22, 2019 Volume 126 Issue 7

Weather Wed: sunny, 55° Thurs: rainy, 53° Fri: sunny, 69° Sat: cloudy, 72° Sun: cloudy, 74° Mon: rainy, 72° Tues: showers, 70°

Governor Polis and lawmakers visit DU Photo courtesy of University of Denver

Isaiah Jakab | News Editor

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n Monday, May 13, Governor Jared Polis and four Colorado legislatures gathered at DU with local journalists from the Colorado Sun and CBS4 and the director of the Center for American Politics, Dr. Seth Masket. They held a town hall in Davis Auditorium, recapping the last legislative session. Chancellor Chopp introduced the event and thanked the Center for American Politics for their engagement with the local and national politics.

Governor Jared Polis was

asked questions from DU students for the first half-hour of the event. He covered a wide array of topics including his support of immigration in the form of in-state tuition and drivers’ licenses, oil and gas regulation and the successful passage of free all-day kindergarten. After he was posed a question asking advice for “an aspiring queer politician,” he encouraged students to, “Pursue [their] passions.”

He told the audience that any person from any upbringing could be successful in politics saying, “there’s no one background that’s ideal for a career in

public service.”

Next, four Colorado legislators, two from the state House and two from the state Senate, discussed the last session. House Speaker KC Becker (D-Boulder), House Minority Leader Patrick Neville (R-Castle Rock), Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg (D-Boulder) and Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert (R-Highlands Ranch) had a passionate discussion about school safety in regards to shootings. Becker advocated for more mental health providers in schools, while Neville advocated for more security in schools in the form

of armed teachers and student resource officers.

Masket said that he was grateful to the Colorado Sun for collaborating on the event. He celebrated civic engagement, saying, “The Center on American Politics is devoted to bringing important political events to campus for the benefit of students and faculty, and this seemed like a great opportunity to hold a discussion about the new laws and political events that affect our lives.”

Both round tables can be found on Facebook.

Looking back at “Game of Thrones”

Nina Petrovic | Arts & Life Editor

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he beloved HBO series “Game of Thrones” ended on May 19, leaving fans reminiscent on almost

10 years of wars, betrayals, love and of course the ultimate ruler of the new Six Kingdoms. Fans watched as several characters eventually met a tragic or satisfying end (it depends on the

character or who you ask had the best death) and others develop into strong leaders. While “Game of Thrones” carried a strong plot line, fans were disappointed as season eight quickly unraveled

several character developments and left a disappointing ending (warning: there are spoilers throughout this article).

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Letter to the Editor: Denver is falling behind on the issue of plastic pollution

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olorado is known for its natural beauty and strong environmental policies. However, the Centennial State is behind the pack when it comes to plastic pollution.

As of 2018, there are about 350 plastic bag bans in places across the country. Most notably, California and Hawaii have enforced statewide plastic bag bans, while Vermont will ban three types of single-use plastics starting January of next year.

In 2014, the Denver City Council tried to pass an ordinance that would place a tax on plastic bags. However, the city council decided to focus on streamlining trash pick-up services in lieu of reducing the spread of single-use plastics.

Denver attempted once more to introduce plastic bag legislature in 2018. Unfortunately, a statute passed in 1993 got in the way, killing the bill on arrival.

This 1993 statute was orig-

inally written to protect and standardize recycling; however, it is currently being used to prevent cities across Colorado from banning single-use plastic bags, straws and polystyrene containers.

Section 7 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, 25-17-104 states the following: “Local government preemption. No unit of local government shall require or prohibit the use or sale of specific types of plastic materials or products or restrict or mandate containers, packaging, or labeling for any consumer products.”

Despite the risk of legal repercussions, nine municipalities have already banned single-use plastic bags since the implementation of the statute in 1993. To date, no lawsuits regarding this statute have come to light.

Likewise, efforts to ban or restrict the use of plastic straws in Denver have also failed.

ABOUT US

House Bill 1143, known as the “straws on request” bill, failed due to its exemption of drivethrus and food deliveries and its restrictive policy preventing local governments from regulating straws within their respective municipalities. Naturally, this bill was killed on February 25 of this year.

According to National Geographic, single-use plastics make up more than 40 percent of all plastic pollution. This includes grocery bags, straws, Styrofoam containers and plastic bottles.

A study by NOAA has found that plastic is the most prevalent type of debris in our ocean.

This debris primarily comes in the form of “microplastics” which are pieces of plastic less than five millimeters in length.

Alarmingly, microplastics have been found in the majority of human subjects tested, and almost 100% of fish species.

Microplastics have been found to bioaccumulate and

disrupt the endocrine system of most animals, including us.

We are not just polluting our ocean with plastics—we are hurting ourselves.

We have 350 examples of successful plastic bag bans, nine of which are in our own state.

Denver claims to be “leading the way in eco-friendly urban living”; however, our inaction has shown this to be nothing more than an empty motto.

Sedona Dorsett DU Alumnus

DU Clarion EDITORIAL STAFF

HANNAH BRANIT, Editor-in-Chief VICTORIA VALENZUELA, Executive Editor TARYN ALLEN, Editor-in-Chief Emeritus GRACE CARSON, Executive Editor Emeritus ISAIAH G. JAKAB, News Editor The Clarion is the official student newspaper of the University of Denver, serving as the “Voice of the Pioneers.” Founded in 1899, it covers campus and local stories with the highest level of journalistic integrity possible. 1000 copies are distributed each Wednesday afternoon (throughout the academic year) across the DU campus, and every article is also published at duclarion. com. The Clarion does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty, staff and/or administration of DU, and the opinions expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion.

Reproduction of the Clarion in whole or part in any form written, broadcast or electronic without written permission of the Clarion is prohibited. The opinions expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion. The Clarion reserves the right to reject advertising, stories, columns or letters to the editor that it deems graphic, obscene or that discriminate on the basis of race, culture, gender or sexual orientation.

The Clarion welcomes letters to the editor. Those who submit letters must limit them to 500 words. Some letters may not be published because of space limitations, overly-libelous content or similarity to past submissions. Please submit letters to duclarioneditor@gmail.com.

HOW TO JOIN The Clarion is open to contributors of all years and majors at DU, including both undergraduate and graduate students. There’s no application necessary; all you have to do is show up to one of our weekly meetings, which are held every Monday at 6 p.m. (during the academic year) in the Hub. Can’t make it to a meeting? Send an email to duclarioneditor@gmail.com and we’ll do everything we can to get you published.

LAWSON MONTGOMERY, Sports Editor ELIZABETH LOCHHEAD, Opinions Editor NINA PETROVIC, Arts & Life Editor CAITLAN GANNAM, Photo/Video Editor SARA LOUGHRAN, Copy Editor MAYA PINON, Copy Editor CHELSIE FINCHER, Illustrator HALEY BIRT, Paper Delivery Person SYDNEY KAPP, Business Manager ANDREW MATRANGA, Faculty Adviser Masthead graphic design: David Fain

CONTRIBUTING STAFF GRACE WILKINS

HALEY PAEZ

MEGAN COONEY

JAKE GLOTH

EMMA COHEN

GRACE GANZ

REBECCA SHAGRIN

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Uber and Lyft face unexpected roadblocks

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Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

ber and Lyft, the two ride-hailing conglomerates monopolizing public transport and taxi services, have hit a few speed bumps in the past several weeks.

Propelled by blind success, both businesses took off with their ingenious concept. Not only do these services enable everyday people to work part-time for Uber or Lyft at their own leisure, but those using their apps can find a ride within minutes for a reasonable fee. It’s especially helpful in regions where

taxi cabs aren’t as prevalent like they are in places like New York City. Yet, with more and more people relying upon Uber or Lyft, coupled with record low unemployment rates, these companies are left wondering, who will be our drivers?

These drivers are technically independent contractors. Once someone becomes a driver, they can choose when they want to work. At Lyft alone, approximately 91 percent of their drivers are “on duty” for less than 20 hours a week. And under-

standably so, because after subtracting gas costs (which aren’t covered by the companies) drivers average $5 per hour. On top of that, the service requires the drivers to use their own cars which can endure wear and tear from the various passengers who ride in them. It’s worth mentioning that peak profit times occur in the evening— Uber and Lyft are praised for convenience in relation to helping intoxicated people get home.

Understandably, the thought of making $5 an hour to rack up mileage, wear down your car and deal with drunkards isn’t all that appealing.

Both companies have resorted to incentives to keep drivers driving. Within the past 12 months, they have netted losses traipsing into the billions.

This puts the companies in a rut. Raising the fare will deter customers from using the ride service, but keeping rates low will also dissuade drivers.

It’s feasible to conclude that within the coming years taxis

will virtually become obsolete, and until technology has advanced far enough to create bulk self-driving cars, Uber and Lyft need to alter their marketing strategy to potential drivers. Rather than promoting the occupation as a full-time gig, they should make the appeal be the fact that it is part-time.

Uber and Lyft drivers constitute approximately 1% of the U.S. workforce. Regardless of how high turnover rates may be, and the fact that most drivers are on call less than 20 hours a week, if more people work part-time then it won’t be a concern. Being an Uber and Lyft driver shouldn’t replace someone’s job; it should supplement their current job and be seen as an opportunity to make extra money.

Through this ideology, there will be a surplus of drivers available, there should be less of an uproar over the fare and lack of unemployment won’t be a concern.

Megan Cooney | Contributing Writer

Lethal injection in prisons is cruel and unusual

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gnorance is bliss—especially when it comes to lethal injections. Since 2004, lethal injection has been the primary method of execution for death row inmates.

At the time they claimed it was more humane than the electric chair, but they did not realize how horrific it actually is. Lethal injection is actually an extremely cruel and unusual way to go.

First, it causes immense pain and suffering for the inmate.

Second, it is performed and developed by amateurs, who know little about what they are doing. Supporters of lethal injection claim that the inmates deserve the pain, but this idea goes against both the U.S. Constitution and the idea of execution. The lethal injection debate is one of ignorance versus facts.

The facts are quite simple: lethal injection is not the quick and painless death that it is advertised to be. The first drug administered in a lethal injection is Midazolam, which is a sedative, not an anesthetic. One inmate’s attorney who witnessed his client dying in severe pain said, “I think the Midazolam worked exactly as the Midazolam is supposed to work—which is that it doesn’t work: it doesn’t prevent Mr. Johnson from feeling pain.” This means it relaxes the patient rather than preventing them from feeling pain. The second drug is a paralytic, which leaves the inmate unable to move, despite still being awake.

If the first drug does not knock them out, the second will cause the patient to lose all control of their body. They are unable to breathe, and they lack any way to signal their pain. The third and final drug has been described as feeling as if fire is being poured into your veins. It has been said to feel like you are being burned alive from the inside.

Victoria Valenzuela | Clarion

Judge Alex Kozinski claims that it would be more humane to have a firing squad than to administer a lethal injection.

Now if being burned inside out does not sound like the most horrific thing in the world, remember that this procedure is not being administered by doctors. Due to ethical implications, no physician can be involved in the procedure. This means that amateurs are administering the drug, which has caused extreme mishaps with the procedure.

These amateurs are regular people without any medical experience. For Clayton Lockett in Oklahoma it took 43 minutes,

and the administrators botched the job by injecting Lockett in multiple places, including his groin. They also failed to inject his veins each time. The making of the drug is also supported and developed by amateurs.

The creator of the procedure was the Oklahoma state Medical Examiner Jay Chaplain—who is not a doctor. The man many states use to justify the drug is Dr. Roswell Evans, who has a pharmacy doctorate, not a medical degree. In interviews about the drug, he stated that he has never done any research with the drug, and in a case brought to the Supreme Court, he used

printouts from a website called drugs.com, which contains a disclaimer: “This information is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.”

Supporters claim that the inmates deserve the torture for their crimes. But are executions about revenge? I would argue that we do not want to become like the killer himself. The pain and suffering inflicted by lethal injection is akin to torture, and it is a cruel and unusual punishment that should be banned in the U.S. Jake Gloth | Contributing Writer

The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion or of the DU community.

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Victoria Valenzuela | Clarion

DU While Native part 5: Looking forward at DU and beyond

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he DU While Native project is a five-part series, explaining the unique situation Indigenous students are in by attending DU, considering the institution’s history in the Sand Creek Massacre; highlighting the struggles these students face on campus and on their journey through higher education; telling stories of their resistance and survival on campus and more. It serves as a space in which Native students at DU can tell their own stories—stories often shared by many Native students around the country. It serves to educate those outside of the community and give insight to the devastating national statistics about the retention of Indigenous students in higher education. Some students have chosen to use pen names to protect their safety on campus.

If you have any questions or comments, please send them to duwhilenative@gmail.com.

There has been very little discussion of the Sand Creek Massacre or John Evans’s role in it in any of my classes, or any discussion of Indigenous issues in general. However, there have been a few classes that have discussed the issue, including an advanced writing seminar called “Political Forgiveness.” The professor who teaches the class is Dr. Nancy Wadsworth, one of the professors who was on the John Evans Study Committee. In the class, we questioned how societies can heal for unimaginable trauma, such as the Holocaust, South African apartheid and the Rwandan genocide. We also questioned how DU can move forward from their involvement in the Sand Creek Massacre.

Luckily for the class, this question was a little easier to answer than the others, since the framework for healing had already been set by those who came before us.

After the John Evans Report was released in 2014, the John Evans Study Committee released a list of recommendations for the university moving forward. The recommendations were authored by the professors who wrote the John Evans Report and were advised by both Native students and alumni, as well as

Sand Creek Massacre descendant representatives.

In the introduction of the recommendations, it states, “We have an opportunity to provide a model of transparency, accountability, and transformation for institutions that have directly profited or indirectly benefited from the displacement of the indigenous communities whose lands and histories they occupy. This moment invites us to bend the arc of history away from the clamor of old apologetics that have caused deep wounds for those whose voices have been silenced and toward justice, healing, and peace.”

The recommendations were put out to reach healing in DU’s community. A healing, as the report states, is not just for Indigenous people and the descendants of genocide but for all people, including “the descendants of those who carried out brutalities and injustice, those who are just now learning and awakening to the mythologies of US History, those still captivated by the popular mythologies of the American West, and those who have been removed from their original land and culture for so long that it seems no longer a memory.”

These 22 recommendations have set up a plan for DU to commit to in order to help the community heal. In 2015, the university introduced a Task Force on Native American Inclusivity in order to accomplish these goals. In introducing the task force, Chancellor Rebecca Chopp stated, “The work of the University includes the mission of healing as well as creating and supporting a world in which such atrocities (the Sand Creek Massacre) will never occur again. It is time for the University to discuss next steps, especially initiatives that will support our Native students, faculty and staff members, and alumni.

The University needs to serve the public good in service to and in partnership with Native communities.”

While some of these suggestions have been implemented and some are in the works, others have not been addressed at all. There are also other steps that Native

students are advocating the university take outside of the committee’s recommendations. As DU begins to make steps forward, Indigenous students fight to hold the university accountable to their promise to support Indigenous students and to “serve the public good.”

DU’s steps to right their past One of the first recommendations implemented by DU was to hire Viki Eagle for the position of director of Native American Community Partnerships and Programs.

This role was created not only to facilitate outreach to the greater Native community in Denver but to support Native students on campus. I can personally attest to the fact that without Viki’s role on campus, I would have transferred by my second year, and I know that many Indigenous students at DU agree. This role is essential in helping students navigate college and adjust to DU’s culture.

Raelene Woody said, “Of course Viki [helped motivate

been made, such as following the recommendation to create a permanent memorial on campus and disclosing DU’s history during some events such as the first-year dinner, Native students feel the university has not been completely transparent about their history.

“I knew about the Sand Creek Massacre, but I didn’t know about the role DU played in it,” Raelene said. “I think that was intentional by DU because it’s not known. I didn’t even know. And if you dive deeper into DU’s website, or if you ask questions, then it barely comes up. And so I think it’s hard for students to know that upon arriving—to know DU’s history and to know the history of its founders, how it was founded. I [only] found out about two weeks in because I read the John Evans report myself.”

Another recommendation urges the university to “target the recruiting of Native American faculty and staff in all academic units and plan to add at least six new faculty positions for Indigenous scholars

Grace Carson | Clarion

me to stay at DU]. I think she really helped. I was always in Viki’s office crying.” She explained that without Viki’s support and mentorship, she probably would have dropped out within her first year.

Other steps that the university has worked to implement is transparency about and memorialization of DU’s role in the Sand Creek Massacre. While some effort has

within the next five years.”

While this goal has gotten a slow start, this year there have been two new positions opened up for Native faculty in both the history and the anthropology departments.

Dr. Elizabeth Escobedo, associate professor of history at DU and the head of the search committee for the new Native faculty for the history department, said, “When

The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion or of the DU community.

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and find a place away from ‘Pioneer’ also represents the when it comes to creating a the struggles of DU’s culture. history that DU was a part better environment and cul“If we had our own cultural of. Founder John Evans was ture for Native students. space on campus, I feel like complicit in the Sand Creek Indigenous students at it would be a little bit easier Massacre in 1864, the same to feel safe being a Native year that DU was founded. DU paint a picture of the student on this campus,” N. In the findings from the John national story The story of Native stuRose said. “I feel like a lot of Evans Study Committee, it minority students on campus was stated that John Evans is dents at DU echoes the stoare targeted in some way, culpable for the Sand Creek ries of Indigenous students shape, or form. We all know Massacre. This is exactly in higher education across what happens here. There’s in the spirit of a pioneer. the Nation. The 23 percent a lot of negative experiences Pioneers killed Indigenous graduation rate for Native that go on because this is a people and stole their land. students in higher education predominately white institu- Pioneers do not represent was attributed to a lack of tion. And particularly, it’s a the spirit of the student body role models, feelings of isopredominately white institu- at the University of Denver lation, racial discrimination, tion where people are coming and it must be changed. DU a struggle with the culture from rich families. Every has said they are dedicated in higher education and the experience we have they have to inclusive excellence. They everyday challenges of being no way to connect to it. So if have promised to make up for a non-traditional student. there was a space Native stu- their wrong doing to Indig- These experiences, and more, dents could have on campus, enous people in the Denver were voiced by Indigenous it would, I think, be greatly community. Yet still, they students at DU throughout beneficial to helping them refuse to show any action this project.

Every student that I feel like they have a right to behind their words. They continue to participate in interviewed spoke about be on this campus.”

Salma Ramires Muro modern-day violence against feelings of wanting to drop out or transfer within their agreed with N. Rose, “[Having Native communities.”

Though the university first year at DU. I, myself, a Native Cultural Center on campus] would make me feel has refused to change the had thoughts of transferring so happy because I’d be able “Pioneer” nickname, NSA’s within my first quarter at the to walk into a building that demands have not been com- university. If DU and other doesn’t feel too white and be pletely unheard. Next year, universities do not work able to feel at home. Cause the Student ID office has actively and steadily to create honestly, if I walk into any agreed to allow students and a better experience for their building on campus, I feel faculty to be able to choose an Native students, they will out of place. So having that alternative ID card without not only lose them from their location—a building or bun- the “Pioneer” name on it. So, institution, but they will congalow or small house—that instead of the label “Pioneer tinue to contribute to Indigis strictly for Indigenous stu- Card,” students and commu- enous students’ barrier to dents, by Indigenous students and by the community would be great.”

Indigenous students have also spoken out against DU’s investment in the fossil fuel industry. In a letter NSA wrote to the Board and Trustees in 2017, they stated, “Fossil fuel industries exploit our sacred land and continue to break treaties. Construction and operation of fossil fuel extraction infrastructure will allow for the continued violent victimization of our men, women, and children.

As an institution of higher learning, we have exceptional research at our disposal which can help us transfer investments into industries of the future. It will also Graphic courtesy of Makia Jones end the cycle of destruction aimed towards the original nity members will be able accessing higher education.

For DU, as a university Native students hope peoples of this land who are to choose a card that simply for more a part of this Nation’s, and says “Student Card” instead. dedicated to serving the While DU has made some more specifically the Uni- This request was completely public good and whose history is deeply rooted in the progress on the recommen- versity of Denver’s coloniz- driven by Native students.

Overall, what Native stu- systemic harm caused to dations, there are some rec- ing history.” The university ommendations the university has not responded to NSA’s dents at DU want most is a Native peoples, I call on them safe, inclusive environment to become a leader for other has not implemented yet that letter or request at all. students are advocating for, Another request from in which Indigenous students universities and to respond such as establishing a Native Native students is to change are supported and can thrive. to their Native students’ con“I just want a more inclu- cerns to create an environAmerican Studies major/ DU’s “Pioneer” nickname and minor. While DU’s College put in place a new mascot to sive environment from DU,” ment at DU that encourages of Arts, Humanities & Social replace the former mascot said L. Swift. “Like, I know these students not to just to Sciences (CAHSS) has imple- still celebrated on campus, they’re trying, but if you talk survive but to thrive in higher mented a new Critical Race Boone. Despite many protests to a lot of student alliances education and beyond.

Overall, these stories serve & Ethnic Studies minor, NSA and meetings, the Board of here, or people who identify hopes that the college will Trustees decided to keep the as minorities, they always as a testament to Native stugive Native studies its own “Pioneer” nickname in Janu- have stories. They always dents’ resiliency—on campus talk about the hardships here and off. It is a story of triminor or major as the recom- ary of 2018. mendations suggest rather In response, NSA wrote in and what they’ve been going umph, strength and resisthan umbrellaing it under the their petition to change the through. I want more inter- tance. It is a story that tells ethnic studies minor. nickname, “[The ‘Pioneer’ action between those who how Indigenous students in Native students are also nickname] represents the are higher up on the chain, higher education are fighting advocating for things not violent history of westward because I feel like if we do for a better future for themmentioned in the recom- expansion, settler colonial- want change we need to be selves, for their families, and mendations, such as a Native ism, oppression, genocide, able to talk to them directly.” for those to come after them.

Though DU has made Cultural Center where Indig- and the systematic violent enous students could have displacement of Native strides to move forward, they their own space to study, relax people from their lands. still have a long way to go to Grace Carson | Executive Editor Emeritus The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of the Clarion or of the DU community. we first heard word about a possible line for a scholar in Native American/Indigenous studies from CAHSS, that’s College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences, Dean Danny McIntosh, went forward and asked various departments and programs to come forward with proposals as to why their particular department and/or program should receive the new line for a scholar in Native American and Indigenous studies. And when the history department heard about this, we brought it before the entire department, and there was unanimous support that we should indeed put in a proposal for that position. We were very excited about the possibility of having a scholar in Native American history. That had been the dream of many of us for a long time… So we put forward our proposal and ultimately heard word that we were granted the new line, and we could move forward to hire a scholar.”

She talked about the importance of hiring an Indigenous histories scholar for their department. “When we wrote up our proposal, we really wanted to focus on the importance to diversify the curriculum, both in the history department and within the common curriculum requirements. So our hope was that whoever would be hired could develop not only history courses in Native American history, but then also provide courses for the larger common curriculum. I think that sends an important signal to students on this campus and incoming students who are beginning their college careers that not just history, but Indigenous history is critical to a liberal arts education.

And that, in fact, inclusive excellence is impossible without acknowledging and including Indigenous people.”

These new faculty, both in the history and anthropology department, will start at DU next fall.

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Charcoal Bistro with a fire brunch menu

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gives the best texture combination.

It looks like a thick chip at first and the skin crinkles like the crows feet beside eyes smiling after enjoying such a unique, delicious breakfast.

The flavors normally mixed with lox have not left its side with red onions, tomato, dill and any style of eggs. The only food duo that surpasses salmon with dill is peanut butter and jelly. Large sprigs of dill are arranged on the plate to make sure its herbaceous punch is felt. Piled high like a sky-scraping plate of nachos, the smoked salmon flakes throughout and the mustard is stone-grounded with thick

aiting in lines can be tough. That’s why amusement parks invented fast passes for the high spenders with low patience. Sadly, the world doesn’t come with a way to cut to the front, but that doesn’t mean you always have to wait either. A surprise visit from my family made weekend brunch one of the highest priories. Our first stop greeted us with a smile and an hour wait for a table. Even though the kind hostess wrote down our names, we knew we weren’t interested in staying. While patience is a virtue, impatience led us right next door to Charcoal Bistro, a contemporary American restaurant that gives a subtle homage to its Scandinavian roots.

Upon entering, we were greeted the dining room lit with a yellow glow from the skylight; it radiated a sense of opennes, that was only further highlighted by the lack of patrons. This made for some unsettling feelings, as restaurants with a crowd define their noteworthiness. People pay other people to stand in line at Dominique Ansel’s bakery starting at 6:30 in the morning when the doors open at 8 a.m.—now that’s commitment. But never fear, because the surprises in life are what ultimately be the most enjoyable. I was overwhelmingly shocked to find this hidden gem, especially as my search for the best brunch in Denver continues. Here on South Gaylord Street in the Wash Park area, Charcoal Bistro offered an ideal way to begin another blue-sky day by avoiding the hustle and bustle that might come later.

It stays true to its desire for an upscale contemporary fare because it doesn’t list a laundry list of options all falling under the same category. Other restaurants will

bore you with every single type of omelette recipe just so that the last possible option is to make your own, which kind of defeats the purpose of having all the predecessors in the first place. But it doesn’t stop with omelettes; it extends to every item on the menu and your stomach begins to grumble for lunch staples by the time you’ve read through each choice. Charcoal isn’t interested in making you read a novel. Instead, they offer a limited menu that accentuates the skill and attention Head Chef Patrik Landberg has put into cultivating his menu.

Breakfast can be quick and easy

for ultimate mobility, but when you have a chance to breathe and enjoy the meal, it can be just as special as a fancy dinner. Charcoal Bistro makes it clear that eating here is a restaurant experience by offering classics that are by no means ordinary. They don’t do any mainstream avocado toast, so the green pop from a California-style shmear is out of the question. Instead, they have their own take on a New York style bagel with lox. They begin by stacking pancakes. Sure, they aren’t the fluffy ones dosed with Mrs. Butterworth, but the perfectly golden outside and mashed potato inside

seeds large enough to give the dish a surprising pop. Then to finish it off, they add eggs any style. But if you want it done right, it must be a fried egg to act as the finishing sauce. Other upscale trending dishes include their Wild Boar Benedict that puts the classic pork green chili to shame.

An option that is always good is to take a ride on the sweet side— and Charcoal Bistro delivers. Other institutions will try to wow you with every type of pancake known to man with candy coarsed throughout and pie filling dosed on top.

It’s hard to compete with French

Story continued from page 1.

child. Jaime finally leaving Cersei showed the strength of being free from an abusive relationship. The relationship between him and Brienne was healthy and showed how Jaime grew.

However, by Jaime going back to Cersei, it sends the message that you can never leave an abusive relationship, and it’s the wrong type of message to send.

Jon Snow was another character whose story was essentially ruined. He was known as the bastard of Ned Stark but eventually became commander of the Night’s Watch, the king in the North and the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne. Though Jon never wanted these titles, he always chose to fight for the good of the people. In the series finale Jon kills his aunt and lover, Daenerys Targaryen, and is sentenced to go back to the Night’s Watch. It seems that everything Jon did was for nothing if he went back from whence he came.

One of the most beloved characters, Daenerys Targaryen, also met an unsatisfying end.

Daenerys was known for overcoming tragic situations and believing in justice, whether it was the death of her husband, Khal Drogo, or freeing the slaves in Meeren. Daenerys was an

embodiment of a strong woman who could fight on her own.

Season eight saw a completely different character. Daenerys suddenly succumbs to madness and kills thousands of innocents in King’s Landing, which is completely out of her character. Though Jon was justified in killing her to save the kingdom, it was not justified to give him a reason to do so and for Daenerys to suddenly go mad.

Perhaps the biggest disappointment was who eventually won the Iron Throne: Bran Stark. Bran had no interest in claiming the Iron Throne, as he eventually became the ThreeEyed Raven who could see into the past. Bran hardly contributed to important events such as the Battle of Winterfell and was mostly known for disappearing into the background. He did not possess the political cunning of his sister Sansa nor the ambition for the throne of many other characters. Having Bran become ruler of the Six Kingdoms was a blindside to viewers and, essentially, made little sense.

Though there were many mistakes in the last season, some characters were given a complete, fulfilling story arc.

The North becomes independent again after thousands of

Jaime Lannister was known as a tragic character slowly coming into redemption. He battled throughout the show between his incestuous relationship with his sister, Cersei, and doing what is moral and right for the kingdom. Jaime was initially a hated character for pushing Bran Stark out of a window, leaving him crippled and carrying a pompous disposition. However, Jaime became humbled after losing his hand in season three and travelling back to King’s Landing with Brienne of Tarth. During his time with Brienne, it was obvious to see how his feelings grew for her.

Viewers rooted for Jaime when he left Cersei to fight against the White Walkers at the end of season seven and eventually consummated his relationship with Brienne in season eight but were disappointed when Jaime decided he loved Cersei all along and died with her during the Battle of King’s Landing.

Why the disappointment in Jaime going back to Cersei?

Throughout the show, Cersei either manipulated or berated Jaime, calling him “the stupidest Lannister” or forcing him to stay because of their unborn

Haley Paez | Clarion

toast that is rolled in Frosted Flakes and crunch-ified, but that fails in comparison to the Cinnamon Roll French toast that lines their menu.

Unlike cinnamon roll inspired dishes that might be drizzled with a cinnamon sugar swirl or cinnamon butter, this is seriously a cinnamon roll drenched in batter then put on the griddle to toast. The brioche dough gives it an added richness and a buttery flavor that is just unbeatable. The texture emulates a warm half-baked cookie. They’re better than the ones that just escaped the oven. Although I thought the ideal topping would be cream cheese melting slowly, the sticky maple syrup makes for a hybrid with a pecan, caramel bun, dusted with powdered sugar and a hint of salty from the breakfast-essential bacon. There are three of these bad boys in one order, so accept the challenge as an individual or share the wealth. Regardless, you’ll be satisfied for the entire day.

Even on the busiest weekend brunch time, Charcoal is open and ready to dole out the goods. Not really a breakfast person? Their dinner menu is just as mouthwatering, with a double cheeseburger crowned with spicy bacon, jalapeño jam that trumps ketchup or mustard. A lighter fare is succulent pan-roasted chicken with brussel sprouts charred to resemble chips all on top of a silky eggplant purée.

While they do have a steak and potato dish, this is their alternative take to that and it is just as satisfying. Hopefully, this still maintains its hidden gem status but the food is so well-prepared that a line would still be worth it just like the roller coasters’ ones are.

Haley Paez | Contributing Writer

years due to Sansa Stark, the new queen in the North. Sansa survived the abuse she endured from Joffrey Baratheon, Ramsay Bolton and Cersei and became an expert in politics and holding a high title. The Hound died killing his brother, The Mountain, but had finally achieved his life goal of doing so. Theon Greyjoy went from a traitor to the North, to surviving Ramsay’s torture and dying to protect the people he cared for from the White Walkers.

The final season of “Game of Thrones” was a disappointment, but fans will never forget the overall characters and moments from the series. From still mourning characters’ deaths such as Ned and Robb Stark, to the fast-paced battles like the Battle of Blackwater and Battle of the Bastards, fans will ever remember “Game of Thrones” as a complex, compelling series and its number one rule: When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.

Nina Petrovic | Arts & Life Editor

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ARTS & LIFE | 7

Logic’s new album “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind” Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

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fter earning the title of the first rapper to have a debut novel top the New York Times Bestseller List earlier this year, Logic’s album “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” released just last week, is already climbing up the charts and is projected to keep going. With features from Gucci Mane, G-Eazy, YBN Cordae, Will Smith, Wiz Khalifa and Eminem, rap fans are excited about this new album and even more eager to attend his tour after the North American dates were just released on May 13.

He first announced his new album on Instagram and released his first single, “Homicide” featuring Eminem, from the album. Throughout this track, Logic raps about the progress he has made during his career and the success he has obtained. He throws shade at

the other rappers in the industry and writes the line, “I got bitches, I got hoes, I got rare designer clothes” to emphasize the ingenuine source of drive to create music he has witnessed in the industry.

Another one of his singles, “Keanu Reeves,” climbed up the charts at a speedy pace. Logic raps about this Canadian actor, making a name for himself and the idea that he doesn’t “play no games ‘less we talking Fortnite.” He goes on to point out the drama that occurs in the music industry, comparing it to the high school drama in the movie “Mean Girls.”

I may be biased because of my love for Gucci Mane, but the song “Icy” is definitely my favorite song on the album. Logic and Gucci Mane rap about their fame and wealth, while making less than subtle comments about their many suitors. I can

already hear this catchy beat being played on the radio over and over and over again.

Another striking song from Logic’s new album is “Lost in Translation.” Even though this song definitely has more of a chill vibe, some of the lines in this song are the cleverest in his album. Logic explains how peoples’ closed-mindedness causes them to hate on other people without even giving them the chance to prove themselves. Despite peoples’ negatively, he says he is “climbing the ladder, ain’t no way I’m falling,” showcasing the passion and motivation he feels towards his music. He mentions his unmatchable style and even compares it to Kim Kardashian’s, which we all know is saying a lot.

“Homicide,” “Keanu Reeves,” “Icy” and “Lost in Translation” are just a few of my favorites from Logic’s new album “Con-

fessions of a Dangerous Mind,” but each song in the album has its own unique message that strongly depicts Logic’s attitude towards a number of issues that are present in our society. This album is very refreshing, as Logic gives his fans a transparent perspective of his experiences in the music industry. As he noted the extensive weight people have placed on wealth and the need for people to show their true intentions, Logic was successful in creating memorable music that will allow fans to reflect on their personal perceptions.

Rebecca Shagrin | Contributing Writer

Colorado Symphony’s new heights

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ost people don’t willingly choose to listen to classical music. Unless it’s in the form of a “Music for Studying” playlist on Spotify or in the background of a movie, the genre tends to only appeal to a certain demographic of people— those people being musicians themselves and older, white folks. A first-time trip to the local Colorado Symphony had me questioning the fate of classical music in today’s society and how the community is working to make it a profitable one.

From May 10-12, the Colorado Symphony played a dreamy selection of pieces in downtown Denver’s Boettcher Concert Hall. The first half featured present-day American composer Missy Mazoli’s “Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres),” a composition modeled after the shapes of the solar system and the jazzy, Gershwin-influenced “Piano Concerto in G Major” by the renowned French impressionist Maurice Ravel. Prodigal pianist Conrad Tao performed with virtuosic skill and passion throughout Ravel’s concerto, followed by a full standing ovation. Post-intermission, conductor Brett Mitchell related the brief history of the evening’s special feature, Romantic composer Hector Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique.”

A five-movement piece, the Col-

orado Symphony performed it to perfection, even taking notes from the original program of having musicians walk off stage to play instruments in order to create a sound of distance.

Yet, no matter how stunning the symphony’s performance proved to be, will more people ever start listening to classical music? Aside from the devoted season ticket holders, casual one-time guests, musicians and retirement home and school programs, classical music only reaches a brief and shallow live audience, let alone an online or streaming audience. In 1990, the previously existing Denver Symphony filed for bankruptcy after a lack of support in the community. The new Colorado Symphony, however, has only increased its profits and is making symphony music more accessible and enjoyable to the public than ever.

With its new endeavors, the Colorado Symphony proves that symphony orchestras are not doomed to play the same pieces from the 1800s over and over again. Some of their most highly attended events are the “Movie at the Symphony” series, in which Harry Potter and Star Wars movies are projected to the audience while the orchestra plays the score along with it. Famous musical acts are also often featured. This upcoming

season will host OneRepublic, Andrea Bocelli, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Josh Groban, John Prine, Pink Martini and Mary Chapin Carpenter.

The organization also travels all around the community, playing at Red Rocks, Arvada Outdoor Amphitheater and other parks in the area. Tributes to historical figures and national holidays, most notably Martin Luther King, Jr., are highly valued and attended. The symphony often features local city choirs and music programs as well.

The upcoming season will continue the Colorado Symphony’s push for a wider, more-inclusive audience. A “Brahms vs.

Radiohead” event will weave together the music of Radiohead and Brahms’s “First Symphony.” The orchestra will screen and play along with classic films “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Fantasia” and “Love Actually.” Aretha Franklin will be honored in a tribute concert, Comic Con fanatics can hear their favorite theme music and jazz cats anticipate a night full of big band hits. All of these events will be expected in the next season, while still maintaining and preserving a healthy dose of Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn and Mozart.

Colorado Symphony is proving that modern orchestras are not doomed. With their growing

genres, live events and creativity in showcase, Denver doesn’t look to be losing their classical flair anytime soon. So will Travis Scott be a guest star at the symphony soon? With the symphony’s taste of the modern trends, we may never know what excitement they have up their sleeve.

Grace Ganz | Contributing Writer

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| ARTS & LIFE

DU CLARION

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Meet Lucy Richardson, future Pio who wrote a letter condemning Georgia’s heartbeat bill

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ucy Richardson, a lifelong resident of Atlanta, Ga. and a member of DU’s incoming class of 2023, decided she had to do something about the heartbeat bill passed in her home state a few weeks ago and wrote an open letter to Governor Brian Kemp. You may remember Kemp’s name from last year’s gubernatorial election and its surrounding scandal regarding voter suppression, but now, he is under fire for signing the heartbeat bill into law.

Kemp’s decision is part of an alarming nationwide trend to restrict the reproductive rights of anyone with a uterus. Read what Lucy has to say about this and find out more at CNN.com and donate at yellowhammerfund.org.

Tell us a little bit about yourself: what do we need to know about Lucy Richardson?

Emma Cohen | Clarion

it. My application was the best last-minute decision I’ve ever made. DU’s emphasis on experiential learning and multi-perspective approaches to education are incredibly important to me. After I realized how well DU fit my educational goals while having all of the benefits of being in the heart of Denver, my decision was made easily.

What inspired you to write the letter? Did you think it would receive as much attention as it has?

Some friends from the political association and I have a group chat where we discuss and vent about different political topics, and as soon as our governor signed the bill into law it was abuzz. The conversation was moving faster than my thumbs could possibly type, so I became frustrated trying to express exactly how attacked and scared I felt. I sat down and wrote the letter. I sent it to my sister, whose brain is probably identical to mine so I knew she would appreciate it, and she shared it on her Instagram.

Soon, my friends were asking me if they could share it as well, and it just took off. It’s impossible to know how many people have shared it online, but for about a week after the initial posting, I had direct messages from young men and women from across the country thanking me for my letter. When my friends shared it, their friends did the same. Before I knew it the letter was everywhere. I had no expectations when my sister posted it, but it’s absolutely incredible and empowering to see the reaction it has created. The outpouring of support makes me proud to be a young woman in America.

I’ve lived in the same ten-mile radius of Atlanta for all 18 years of my life, which may seem constricting, but it has been amazing. I graduated from North Atlanta High School where I was involved in the school’s student-led, political association along with the equestrian team, art honors society and several other academic and social clubs.

The political association meetings were by far the most interesting, though. My high school is a fairly large public school in the heart of Buckhead, Atlanta where divisions between political groups are extremely apparent and problematic. This polarity is so obvious it’s almost comical—for example, the time I had to dodge a pro-life rally on my way to a protest about gun control. This has benefitted me, though, because it has made me I know that so many people extremely secure in my personal have reached out to you to views and values. show support for your message. Has there been a sigWhy did you choose DU? nificant amount of backlash from your letter? If so, how Honestly, I only applied to do you deal with it?

DU because it was in Colorado.

I had done little to no research Honestly, no. I prepared myon the school and had never self for backlash as soon as the stepped foot on campus, and it post started to gain traction— wasn’t until after I got my accep- mainly by filtering messages tance that I began to look into with the phrases “disgusting”

and “how dare you” from my direct messages—but I really didn’t receive much hate. I read through the comments on the original post and saw the rude and unsubstantiated arguments which made me extremely frustrated, but then I had a realization: the people commenting messages to attack me personally or approach the situation with hostility instead of a desire to learn about the opposing opinion had no inclination to hear my side. They were purely looking for an argument. Instead of entertaining these comments, I decided to spend my time listening to the women and men who are troubled by this and talking to those who truly want to learn about the bill and its effects. On several occasions, I had men and women who disagreed with my position respectfully ask my opinion on the matter, in which case I was happy to explain and listen to their stance as well. I have no intention of entertaining aggressors, we have enough of those in our government as it is.

What advice do you have for other Georgia residents, as well as people nationwide who are concerned about their access to safe abortions?

Please write letters. Please go march. Please go vote. Any possible way to make your voice heard is enough. Those in office who support this bill are all elected officials, which means we have the power and the obligation to vote them out. For Georgia residents specifically, a student-led organization called Do Better GA is organizing a march to the capitol building on May 25 and a letter drive to protest this law.

Many pro-choice advocates have organized similar events in their areas, so please attend. One of the most important things you can do is educate those around you. Make sure people know the facts before they form an opinion.

Will you be participating in the march/protest against the heartbeat bill on May 25? Why do you think it’s important for people to

show up for this cause?

Yes. Demonstrations like these are among the best ways to show your opinions, especially if you can’t vote. These are also an amazing way to see the sheer amount of people who agree with your opinions and are willing to fight to make a change. My first march was simply transformative. Before, I felt isolated in my views, but now I know I have a safety net of like-minded people who will support me. Go. March.

Fight. The time for pleasantries is over; the time for a revolution is now.

Is there anything that you didn’t say in your letter that you’d like to say now?

I’ll close this with some hard facts. The Georgia bill bans abortions after the fetal heartbeat is detected, which occurs at roughly six weeks development.

This is long before most women know they are pregnant. This beating is also the sound of developing cardiac tissue, not an actual heart. There is no circulatory system in place, little to no brain function and no ability to sustain itself outside of the mother’s womb. At this point, the fetus is simply not alive. Additionally, Georgia already has the highest maternal mortality rate in the nation. It also has an extremely high premature birth rate and one in every 33 children is born with birth defects.

This shows how troubled our prenatal healthcare system is in this state. With rates this high, how can one justify forcing more women to face this? The U.S. agreed under the Fourth Geneva Convention that a forced pregnancy--as well as rape, forced prostitution and indecent assault—is considered both a war crime and a crime against humanity. Under the Alabama law, women can’t get abortions at any stage, even if the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest. In the case of rape, a doctor who performs an abortion will potentially face more jail time than the rapist. These laws are simply destructive and disgusting.

Emma Cohen | Contributing Writer