No. 13 (January 26, 2017)

University News

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A student voice of Saint Louis University since 1921

Vol. XCVI No. 13

Students protest inauguration President Trump sparks unrest

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Women’s March sweeps America

By MEGAN ANTHONY Managing Editor

In a year as politically charged as 2016, Saint Louis University was the center of many clashing ideologies that challenged students, professors and the broader community.

The Women’s March on Washington, that took place on Jan. 21 was the culmination of past

events and a response to a changing and controversial administration; an administration that has left many on Saint Louis University’s campus worrying about what is to come.

The march had extensions in all fifty states and around the world. Several students participated in See “Women” on Page 2

Emma Carmody / The University News

CLOCK TOWER: Students, faculty and locals gather at the Clock Tower to protest the presidential inauguration.

It was less than an hour after Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration last Friday when people began to assemble at the Clock Tower to protest their new president.

Among the protesters were students and faculty from SLU and other St. Louis area schools, in addition to other local activists. The demonstration was planned by SLU sophomore Ben Hoover.

“I wanted to do something to show that we don’t agree with what’s going on nationally,” Hoover said.

“We’re here to send a mes-

sage that we don’t stand for racism, fascism — any obstruction of inequality.”

Clock Tower shared the same sentiments. “I’m here because I oppose pretty much everyPenny Weiss, thing Trump a professor stands for[Election night] of Women’s -not just was a victory for and Gender what he has exclusion, division, Studies at said, but also SLU, was at what he has hatred, bigotry...it the protest. brought out was hearbreaking.

“Election in people” Penny Weiss, professor of night felt like said junior a trampling Women’s and Gender Studies Anja Schneiof everything der. “For me we’ve been it’s just a refighting for,” Weiss said. “It ally hard time, acknowledgwas a victory for exclusion, ing that we’ve made it so far division, hatred, bigotry... It and now this has hit us back.” was heartbreaking.”

Several students disOthers gathered at the cussed the significance of

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By KRISTINA DEYONG Staff Writer

protest as a form of resistance. They spoke of emotional support and building a sense of community as they prepare to be active in opposing an administration with which they so strongly disagree. “I think it’s our duty to be outspoken about [Trump], and I don’t think just speaking is enough,” said senior Daniela Feliciano. “It’s important to physically present yourself, to say ‘I’m here,’ for those that don’t know there are those people out there.”

Weiss emphasized the See “Trump” on Page 3

Emma Carmody / The University News

MARCH: Freshman Janine Urgello marches in St. Louis.

Midtown St. Louis to undergo makeover by SLU

By PATRICK HYLAND Staff Writer

Students may soon have an alternative to the Grand Boulevard bridge for getting from the main campus to the medical campus. Where a bridge once connected Spring Avenue on either side of I-64, there may rise a greenway for pedestrians and bikers. In addition, an urban retail or department store may be built within walking distance for SLU students.

These are but two changes that could be part of a larger project by the St. Louis Midtown Redevelopment Corporation, a joint venture between SLU and SSM Health St. Louis. All activities would

be governed by a five person board made up of three executives of the SLU community, together with a repre-

The project is not about SLU investing into the 200-acre area, but simply facilitating development by outside groups. sentative from SSM Health as well as an independent planner. With the goal of incentivizing development in the area, or “land assem-

blage,” the board would be in charge of distributing tax abatement packages to developers.

David Heimburger, SLU’s VP and CFO, notes how SLU’s campus is currently distributed “like a barbell.”

The redevelopment project would certainly change that.

In fact, Heimburger says that the excitement is so great, developers are actually calling him. Important to note is that the project is not about SLU investing into the 200acre area, but simply facilitating development by outside groups. Michael Lucido, Associate VP for Facilities See “Midtown” on Page 3

Courtesy of Lawrence Group

MIDTOWN: Part of the proposed plan to revamp St. Louis’ Midtown neighborhood.

INSIDE SCOOP: An homage to Nelly at Powell Hall

Page 8

Page 5

ARTS

The future of genetic modification

New Billiken mascot, take two

SPORTS

Page 9

OPINION

2 January 26, 2017

NEWS

Women: Trump criticized across the nation

in the march and a senior at Saint Louis University said, “I think that our liberations are students participated in the tied together. When women Women’s March on St. Louis are treated this way, it takes that turned the length of away from all of our dignity.”

Market Street into a sea of A group of SLU students pink hats, rainbow flags and and professors also traveled cardboard signs. to Washington D.C. to take Rosemary Bernstein, a separt in the main march. nior at SLU, expressed that Ellen Cowell, an English she marched because the professor, stated that she was new administration does worried at first that the trip not represent her and her would affect her ability to values. “Hate, bias, and lies teach during do not repthe first week resent me of class but and do not I wanted to u l t i m a t e l y, represent be in D.C. on she felt that what makes Inauguration Day Washington America to protest Trump’s D.C. is where great,” she she needed to said. election and by be. She went Bernstein, extension any on to say along with national policy that “When Clinmany other promotes nativism, ton lost the participants, racism, sexism election, I immarched mediately felt and homophobia. not only for that I wanted her rights Ellen Cowell, professor to be in D.C. as a woman on Inaugurabut for the tion Day to rights of the protest Trump’s election and disabled, people of color, the by extension any national LGBTQ community, immipolicy that promotes nativgrants and refugees. “I reism, racism, sexism and hofuse to stand by while their mophobia.” rights are being stolen, just Professor Cowell, who as I would hope they would teaches courses focussed on stand by me.” representations of women In the new wave of femiand the LGBTQ community nism that society is experiin literature and film, strives encing, the focus is “womto implement a sense of imen’s rights are human rights,” portance and relevance in a saying that is printed on her students regarding demthe Women’s March on ocratic processes such as Washington Facebook page. protesting and to stay aware A phrase meaning that evof what is happening cultureryone is equal regardless of ally, regardless of political gender, race, religion, sexual opinion. orientation or country of “For me it was a response origin. to the feeling a lot of people When asked if a feeling of have been feeling…isolation, representation for all people discouragement.” was at the march, Braden Senior Taylor Jackson was Spratt, a male participant Continued from Page 1

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Emma Carmody / The University News

ST. LOUIS: Thousands descend on downtown St. Louis following the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump. one of five Saint Louis University students that drove 13 hours to Washington D.C. to attend the march.

“For me it was about going and joining a community of people that were expressing the opposite emotions, so hope, commitment, moving forward.”

For Jackson, the Washington D.C. march was very intentional in its planning; an ode to the message of equality that the march fo-

cused on.

The march drew people from many diverse backgrounds to voice their opinions on the new administrations proposed policies.

The speakers ranged all the way from activist Angela Davis to Janet Mock, a transgender woman of color and the Mothers of the Movement, a group of black women whose sons had been killed by police brutality. “It’s a huge privilege to be able to

travel to D.C. and to feel safe while protesting,” Jackson says as she speaks about the intersectionality of feminism and issues that surround other marginalized communities.

The Women’s March on Washington is already garnering the title of the largest protest in the history of the United States.

The organizers of the march are currently in the process of planning a 100-

day push for activism.

10 Actions in 100 days was initiated in response to the fear that many of the that people have made that commitment will die out now that the march is over.

“What did the protests achieve?” asks professor of Medieval Literature Ruth Evans. “We won’t of course know immediately what the Women’s March achieved, but it will go down in history.”

10,000 - 20,000 people marched in St. Louis It is estimated to be one of the largest protests in U.S. history Over 2.5 million people participated worldwide Emma Carmody / The University News

DOWNTOWN: Freshman Sarah Cerkvenik wields a sign as she marches downtown with fellow participants.

Symposium highlights dangers of sex trafficking

By PATRICK HYLAND Staff Writer

The Medical Family Therapy Graduate Student Association hosted a Sex Trafficking Symposium on Thursday, Dec. 1, which featured a documentary showing and offered information about how to help prevent and recognize sex trafficking, and help its victims.

While the majority of sexual molestation is “inhouse,” that is, committed by a friend or family member of the victim, the documentary, “Sex and Money,” revealed the growing trend of sexual slavery. According to the documentary, 1 in 4 females and 1 in 6 males are sexually abused by the time they reach 18 years of age.

In America, there are 1.7

million runaways each year, with only a third of those ever being reported.

One professional interviewed suggested that “throwaways” be a more accurate term to use to refer to the thousands of children who run away each day.

They are the “new American homeless.” Often they are not necessarily running to anything specific, just away from abusive homes or relationships.

Complicating the issue of combating sexual slavery is “drift theory,” which describes how many victims eventually find themselves trapped.

A former pimp described high schools as “buffets” and ideal locations to find future victims. Some pimps are referred to as “tennis

shoe pimps,” meaning they slavery is severe. One police do not need a vehicle, and officer reported injuries such are able to prey on teenagers as a woman’s scalp becoming by simply walking on school separated from her skull by grounds or scouting at an her pimp grabbing her and area shopping mall. tossing her across the room.

As one victim stated, such Taking a closer look at indiv idu al s , what sustains “do not look the demand like monsters. for sexual They suck 1 in 4 females and slavery, the you in.” Vulincreasing 1 in 6 males are role of pornerability is a key factor sexually abused by nography as that pimps are the time they reach part of charlooking for in acter forma18 years of age. tion for males victims. That same victim was cited. of sexual slavOne psycholery added, ogist assured, “That’s what gets a lot of ‘em.

“What you’re looking for onGirls do not have dads. Oh line will eventually take you my God.” offline.”

The physical abuse exOne female owner of a perienced by those that porn company shared how become trapped in sexual there is increasing demand

in films displaying abusive sex, saying “They don’t like normal stuff anymore.”

Only relatively recently has the APA, American Psychological Association, labeled porn addiction as a disorder. For this, and other reasons, such as lack of funding, there is not a lot of research on the topic.

Porn is a $12 billion a year industry. Child porn is a $3 billion a year industry. Professionals noted that many individuals addicted to porn “do not get help until they lose something.”

The conversation that followed the documentary screening made note of the insufficiency of certain routine questions used in health clinics, such as “Do you feel safe?” The overly simplistic question fails to acknowl-

edge that different people may have differing definitions of safe.

One graduate student suggested a better question might be “What’s your daily life look life?” Professor Meyer noted the importance of wording and suggested that health care providers start with innocent questions and listen carefully for red flags, since “we ask the right questions to get the right answers.” Another open-ended question could possibly be as simple as “Tell me your story. . .”

Meyer also stressed that “Prevention is really, really key.” Better and stricter laws, she suggested, could be a way to take away resources and the status in society of those who perpetuate and feed the demand for sex slaves.

NEWS

January 26, 2017

Let Us Introduce You: Shanah Slade

By AGNIESZKA GORCZYCA Staff Writer

Shanah Slade, a junior from Lake Zurich, Ill., is living SLU’s mission of serving others every day. As a Communication Sciences and Disorders and Spanish double major, she hopes to one day work with children as a speech pathologist in a hospital setting. When she’s not studying, she keeps herself busy with her involvement on campus. In addition to working as a barista at Café Ventana, Slade is a member of Alpha Phi Omega, the co-ed service fraternity, and is involved with Campus Ministry as a lector and Eucharistic minister. She also serves as the Vice President of Mission and Marketing for Dance Marathon, the year-long fundraising effort for Children’s Miracle Network, as well as a resident advisor in Griesedieck Hall.

This is her second year as an RA. She first got involved in Residence Hall Association her freshman year as a member of Griesedieck Hall Council. “Through that, I

Emma Carmody / The University News

LUIY: Shanah Slade is a junior double majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Spanish. learned about diversity and the importance of creating inclusive communities,” she said. “I’m really passionate about making sure people feel like they’re at home at SLU.” She especially employs this mindset with her assigned floor: “I wanted my floor to feel like a family.”

The way all of her involvement centers around serving others is no coincidence. “I feel that, especially with service with APO and Dance Marathon, as a college student I feel the need to do good while I’m at school because I’m taking the time for the betterment of my-

self,” she said. “I like to feel like I’m helping other people while I’m here in college because not everyone has the privilege of going to college.

So I like to give back.”

Amidst all of her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Slade unwinds by spending time with her friends. “We make pancakes on Fridays,” she said.

She also runs and paints decorative canvases, which she used as a way to raise money during a two-week period before the 24-hour Dance Marathon event. “I’m really happy with the way it turned out,” she said. She ended up painting 20 canvases for people who donated to her page within those two weeks.

With a schedule so packed with so many different activities, Slade keeps herself on track by staying organized with a Google calendar as well as using her time spent at the library well. “If I have free time, I’m always doing something,” she said. And above all, the secret to her success? “Lots of coffee!”

Trump: A rocky reception to new president hijacking the demonstration and asking them to be quiet. importance of youth activHowever, some in the crowd ism. “Having a multigenencouraged the audience to erational protest is really listen to Winston and evenimportant. For some of us tually they obliged. this is our hundredth proAfter he had been speaktest, and for some of us it’s ing for several minutes, Hera our first,” she said. “Students Gerber walked up to Winand young people will have ston and demanded her own formative years of their lives turn to speak. Gerber is a shaped by a Trump presilifelong activist, Indonesian dency. It will probably be the immigrant, and member one that many remember the of Amnesty International. best. So they need to help Winston obliged and handed shape it, not just be shaped off the megaphone. Gerber’s by it.” personal history offered a Not all those who came unique perspective both on out to protest were in agreethe American political climent. A small group of selfmate and on protests in genpro claime d eral. communists Gerber If you want to arrived with said that she a megaphone make change, stop began fightand voiced ing for socomplaining and their criticial justice take action. cisms of leftat the age Hera Gerber, activist wing Amerof 15, when ica. They felt she and her that liberal friends acAmerica is nowhere near tively opposed dictator Ho liberal enough and that the Chi Minh. According to Democratic party is harmGerber, three of her friends fully moderate on important died as a consequence of issues. their resistance. “If anyone is “I’m here to make revolucomplaining about America, tion,” declared junior Chris I want them to go to other Winston as he stood on the countries where human American flag. Some in the rights are in peril,” Gerber crowd objected to his acsaid. “You guys don’t know tion. Winston did not move that liberty is available right and said “My ancestors were here. It may be imperfect... brought here as slaves. We but I decided to come here did not come here voluntaribecause you can actually be ly. We have never seen any of heard here,” she said. “If you the so-called benefits of this want to make change, stop country.” complaining and take action.

At first the attitude toEvery second that you live, wards Winston and the you breathe, you have to be other communist students kind, loving, and you have to was entirely negative, with be unafraid of everything.” the crowd accusing them of A succession of other

Services, stressed that the opportunity is one which will “bring services to students.” Development will not be restricted to retail, dining, and entertainment, but may also help meet academic needs too, through additional classroom and laboratory spaces. The City Foundry Project has already planned such additions.

Running alongside the redevelopment project is the formation of the University’s first Campus Master Plan in over 25 years. The university planning group has conducted over 50 individual interviews with deans and directors of academic programs.

Lucido notes that campus interviews are still taking

place, with an open forum for students hosted just this past Monday in the BSC. The Campus Master Plan will work in tandem with the redevelopment project, which will serve the needs of those both within and outside of the SLU community.

Lucido has been encouraged by open forums conducted thus far with area residents, the most recent of which drew about 70 residents.

At a time of budget cuts and difficult decisions, Heimburger said the recognition of SLU as an “anchor institution” reveals how highly the city thinks of the university. The recognition allows for the project grounds to be designated a Chapter 353 Redevelopment Area, which allows for

Over Christmas break I spent a lot of time with family and friends.

Q. What would your dream vacation be?

Since one of my majors is Spanish, I would love to see Spain to experience the culture I’ve learned about in my classes. Another dream vacation would be Ireland. My mom visited Ireland when she was in her 20s and it was her favorite place!

Q. What are three things on your bucket list?

Three things on my bucket list are to have a corgi, go to Colorado, and master latte art.

THE SLU SCOOP

Female student who resides off campus contacted DPS about a subject exposing himself to her while she was standing on the sidewalk in the 3700 block of Lindell Blvd. Female student stated the subject was a black male wearing a red shirt and black sleeveless winter style vest, and after exposing himself to her he continued to walk east on Lindell. Student stated she was not injured and refused any type of University services (counseling). A search of the area by DPS officers was to no avail. St. Louis Police was contacted and filed a report.

Friday, January 20 11:10 p.m. SICK CASE Public Safety received a call for officers to respond to the eighth floor women’s restroom for an intoxicated female student who was vomiting on the floor. Upon arrival, she was conscious and breathing but would fade in and out.

Res Life Advisor found the individual, who is not affiliated with Saint Louis University, passed out on the floor in the restroom. Emergency Medical Service was contacted and arrived, with Medic 26 on scene. After evaluation, she was transported to Saint Louis University Hospital for further treatment. Pro Staff was notified and arrived on scene.

Emma Carmody / The University News

TRUMP: Sophomore Genna Hilbing protests solemnly. protestors with a wide range of opinions followed Gerber, and each person got their chance with the megaphone.

Among those who spoke was Lindsay Pattan, Democratic nominee for Alderman of the 19th Ward.

“I think [the protest] went well,” Hoover said later.

“I hadn’t had any experience organizing an event like this before, but the connections made and the experience gathered in the effort

are something that I can use for the future. I say the future because these next four years could be very rocky for our country and it is vitally important that we be able to mobilize in masses the moment our safety is threatened.”

No pro-Trump counterprotests took place in response to the demonstration. At its peak, around 50 people were gathered at the Clock Tower.

Midtown: Continues its renaissance Continued from Page 1

Q. What did you do over Christmas break?

Friday, January 20 6:43 p.m. EXPOSING PERSON

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Q&A with Shanah Slade:

All Information Provided by Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Continued from Page 1

either 10, 15, or 25-year tax abatements. In certain circumstances, multiple abatements may be warranted, depending on the buildings location and intended use.

The over 400-acre redevelopment zone is currently divided into 16 actuaries which help determine which real estate abatement periods will be awarded, with the most generous being the parcels of land adjacent to I-64 or I-44.

The abatements effectively freeze real estate taxes at the pre-construction rate, saving a developer from having to pay the premium once an investment is made in a new or existing structure for up to a 10-year period. In addition, taxes may be reduced to half of the normal rate for

another 15 years after that.

Another aspect of the plan is the fact that eminent domain will not be used during any portion of the project, which has helped to build good rapport with the surrounding community.

The first additions are expected to be the $550 million hospital and outpatient center financed by SSM Health on land adjacent to the current hospital structure.

Other construction will be completed by the City Foundry and Armory Projects as well as Green River Greenways, which hopes to connect the Mississippi River on the east and Washington University on the west, with the proposed pathway running through SLU’s campus.

3

Saturday, January 21 1:26 p.m. TRESPASSING Officers from the Saint Louis University Department of Public Safety responded to a report of four individuals on the lot, looking into cars and trying door handles. While in route, officers were updated that all four subjects had run from the area. With two running eastbound and the other two west, toward Grand Boulevard. All four subjects, were caught by DPS officers and were identified by the reporting party as the four individuals observed looking into cars and trying door handles. St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department was notified of the detention of four juveniles, and requested to respond. A check of the parking lot for vehicles that may have been entered met with negative results. Communications personnel checked camera footage of the area of occurrence and advised that the only footage was that of the subjects walking on the parking lot. The juveniles were advised of trespass policy and released to their parents by SLPD Officers.

Tuesday, January 24 7:35 a.m. SUSPICIOUS PERSON A subject was found asleep behind the dumpster in the rear loading dock area of the Flats Apartments. DPS officers made contact with the subject and woke him up. Subject was clear through REJIS and was given a trespass warning. Subject left the property without further incident. The subject’s information and photo were added to the Master Name File in ARMS.

Be a Responsible Billiken STOP. CALL. REPORT. 314-977-3000 witness.slu.edu dps.slu.edu

4 January 26, 2017

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January 26, 2017 arts@unewsonline.com Natalie Riopelle, Arts Editor Tom Bergan, Assoc. Arts Editor

An ode to St. Louis’ finest

A beautiful symphonic experience abroad

By JENNA KENNEDY Contributor

Prague, nicknamed “The City of 100 Spires,” is well known for its churches, castles, and squares. It attracts tourists in masses and the number of annual international visitors to the city equals its population about five times over, making it the fifth most visited city in Europe.

Stroll down any street in Prague to enjoy alternating colors of architecturally uniform buildings, encounter churches with towering steeples, and happen upon stunning city views. Prague’s food and drink scene must not go unmentioned, as restaurants of nearly every cuisine fill the city; beer is drunk copiously, and trendy cocktail bars occupy alleys, basements, and every unexpected place.

Unfortunately, Prague’s music scene often gets overlooked. The Czech have a long history of producing classical music, and the Czech Republic has produced several famous composers. During many years under communist rule, the Czech relied on music as means of expression despite the limitations imposed by communist law and censorship.

Today, music bars and jazz clubs fill the city in what seems like a celebration of the freedom to listen. And classical music still permeates Czech culture. The Prague Symphony Orchestra, Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, Prague Chamber Orchestra, and Prague

Philharmonia all perform regularly to sold out venues. Prague even hosts several music festivals including “Prague Spring,” the Czech Republic’s largest celebration of classical music.

Pietari Inkinen led the Prague Symphony Orchestra in performing Má Vlast on the evenings of Jan. 4 and 5. “Má Vlast” (or “My Country”) is a set of six symphonic poems composed between the years of 1874 to 1879 by Bedřich Smetana.

Each poem is about a different locale or historical event which occurred in the Czech Republic. They debuted one at a time as they were composed but are now played successively.

Smetena led a troubled life for a composer, as he became deaf after composing the first poem. Luckily, Smetena’s passion for music prevailed and he went on to compose the five remaining poems.

The Prague Symphony Orchestra’s execution of “Má Vlast” was graceful and gripping. The first poem, “Vyšehrad,” began with the romantic plucking of harp strings by two players in perfect unison. A warm and deep brass background, soft and rhythmic trumpet, and eventually the strings joined inconspicuously to create a natural crescendo to the statement of the theme which would return in later poems.

The juxtaposition of the quiet, emotional parts and See “Symphony” on Page 6

Courtesty of gettyimages.com

NELLYVILLE: Nelly returns home to St. Louis this Friday to perform with the St. Louis Symphony.

By TOM BERGAN Associate Arts Editor

This past week Twitter has been passionately discussing which artist has had a bigger impact on hip-hop: Nelly or Drake. While this might seem at first like an apples and oranges comparison, the two have more than a few defining traits between them. Each are from cities rarely thought of as hip-hop meccas, each surpassed every expectation of their career, and each broke barriers in a different capacity. And while Drake certainly is one of the top faces of the scene today, there is no way he could be where he is with-

out spearheads like Nelly.

Ahead of his sold out show on Friday with the St. Louis Symphony, we look back to the impact that the St. Louis native has had on hip-hop in his nearly two decade career.

Nelly spearheaded Midwest rap of the early 2000s, a genre that received no national attention at the turn of the century. Everyone in the music community was still mourning the losses of The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac, and while two of the most prominent artists of the 90s were gone, the coasts still dominated rap. All eyes were on New York and Los Angeles, while the new “budding city” for the genre was Atlanta, where artists such as

‘An American in Paris’ (in St. Louis)

OutKast and The Ying-Yang Twins were breaking into the national scene. If one were to mention St. Louis in the hiphop landscape, there would be a passing glance before moving to a more “serious” city. This all changed June 27, 2000, the day when Nelly released his debut album “Country Grammar.”

On the album, Nelly creates a signature sound in which he fuses laid-back, funk-fueled beats with a voice that demands attention through his quick yet booming delivery. In typical St. Louis fashion, the cover art is Nelly at the Arch, and everywhere from the Galleria to University City is name dropped throughout

MAGICAL: The company of “An American In Paris” filled the Fox Theatre with a dance-heavy show and countless showstopping numbers. Seen above is the first act performance of “I Got Rhythm.”

By NADIA SIRAJUDDIN Contributor

I had the privilege of watching Christopher Wheeldon’s Tony Awardwinning musical, “An American in Paris,” at the Fox Theatre in St. Louis, and did not know what to expect. I was treated to a very artistic portrayal of the human struggle to continue life after experiencing World War II. If I were insensitive to the potency a war can have on affected individuals, I may have seen just another love triangle story. It was clear to see that the technical aspects were not carrying the show, but rather the actors’ performances.

The show opened with a very minimalistic set; there was simply a piano and a projected screen of a large Arc De Triomphe in the back. As the scene transitioned, the piano quite impressively disappeared under the cover of the French flag in a matter of seconds.

This feat caused my expectations to rise. Unfortunately, they must have risen too high because they were not met again for the remainder of the play. The set managed to portray locations obviously, but there was no more innovation or creativity to applaud. The majority of the set was carried by background projections, which is a little lazy when one of the

major themes of the musical was art. While the set did not trick me into thinking I was in Paris, the costumes most certainly took me back to the 1950s, especially with the colorful and extravagant dresses.

After attending many modern musicals in past years, a classic musical like “An American in Paris” was refreshing. With a strong cast filled with Tony winners and nominees, the songs and dance numbers did not disappoint. I did not buy the soundtrack when I got home, but I did find myself humming to one of their first songs, “I Got Rhythm.” This musical really became an artistic piece once the ballet

began. With several scenes of dancing with no dialogue, I often found myself questioning whether I was watching a ballet or a musical. The dance steps were able to convey the plot, and the cast must be applauded. They beautifully balanced dance and song.

The lead actress, four-time Tony nominee Judy Kuhn, played the role of a gifted dancer, and Kuhn definitely did her character justice.

Furthermore, although Tony and Drama Desk nominee Howard McGillin played an American soldier, his dancing skills were still certainly up to par with that of his colead actress.

See “Musical” on Page 6

See “Nelly” on Page 6

Founding McDonald’s

By SEAN KELSO Contributor

Courtesty of The Fox Theater

the album. While these small references might not mean much to those not from St. Louis, the infectious songs that Nelly made did. Hiphop heads across the country immediately took notice, and the album ruled the Billboard chart during the Summer and Autumn of 2000. 17 years later, the album has sold over 10 million albums, a feat achieved by fewer than 100 artists.

“Country Grammar” was just the beginning of Nelly’s reign. “Nellyville,” released two years later, contained some of his most recogniz-

brought the perfect charisma and mindset to personify the entrepreneurial spirit of Do you ever ponder the Ray Kroc, giving him some history behind the “golden humanity and desperation arches” as you eat your burgthroughout his many ups er and fries at McDonald’s? and downs in business.

If so, “The Founder” is the The supporting cast was perfect choice for the barren great, and some standouts month of January movies. for me were the McDonald’s “The Founder” stars Mibrothers, Dick and Mac (Ofchael Keaton as real-life ferman and Lynch), whose businessman Ray Kroc, good-hearted intentions with a great supporting shone through the potencast including Nick Offertially greedy nature of Kroc’s man, John Carroll Lynch overtaking of McDonald’s. and Laura Dern. The story Watching the rise of the picks up from the beginmodern fast-food empire ning in the 1950s, following that is McDonald’s was very Kroc’s frequent fun and inforroad trips in mative to the The first half of order to make average moviethe movie was a living selling goer. captivating...Michael milkshake maClocking chines, getting Keaton brought the in at just unrejected most perfect charisma and der two hours, of the time Founder” mindset to personify “The by restaurant can feel like owners.

Ray Kroc. a long film at H o w e v e r, times, espehe receives a cially during phone call request for six drawn-out scenes between machines from a McDonthe Krocs, which really ald’s restaurant in San Bertook me out of the movie. nadino, California and is The pacing and tone were so shocked at the quantity muddled through the plot that he calls up the owner to on several occasions, which verify the order. After conalong with the predictabilfirming the order, Kroc, beity this movie lends itself to, wildered at the sale, decides were a real detraction from to drive across the country the story. to check out McDonald’s for Furthermore, I found himself, and thus the true the ending to be abrupt and story begins. wanted more closure as a The first half of the movie viewer, which disappointed was captivating. Watching me. The worst part of this Keaton traverse the country movie collectively for me is in search of work (several the director’s unclear view times even passing through of Kroc—as a viewer, I could the greater St. Louis region) not tell whether we should and as a businessman for respect Kroc’s persistent McDonald’s was very inmindset, or despise his sly teresting. Michael Keaton deal-making and greed.

6 January 26, 2017 What’s up in STL this week?

Dawes Feb. 1 The Pageant The Los Angeles band with a southern sound will play two careerspanning sets.

ARTS

Musical: ‘In Paris’ Prague: Orchestal elegance Continued from Page 5 The plot is straightforward with no surprises; it simply tells the tale of one Frenchman and two American men in love with a French dancer in post-war Paris. Although the show is light-hearted, it ends up delivering a heavy message as the curtain falls.

This musical was able to show that amongst a French dancer, American veterans and an affluent French industrialist, the war spared no one. Each character goes on his or her personal journey of transformation, as it becomes apparent that the main conflict is not winning someone’s love, but rather

learning to love life freely again after the war.

“An American in Paris” is playing at the Fox Theatre through Jan. 29, 2017.

It is nothing comparable to musicals such as “Phantom of the Opera” or “Les Misérables,” but nonetheless is still worth purchasing a ticket. It is a beautiful treat to see and hear, and gives you a real taste of life after World War II. It reminds us that even after experiencing the darkest of times, we must not stop ourselves from finding joy. Don’t hesitate, and let an award-winning cast show you how to “build a stairway to paradise with a new step ev’ry day!”

“Hidden Figures” In theaters The story of three African-American women who played a vital role in NASA’s space exploration.

Courtesy of The Fox Theater

SHOWSTOPPING: A second act tap number is a staple of any great musical

Continued from Page 5 the bold, hair-raising brass statements was very memorable. My partiality to big brass sound is what made Vyšehrad my personal favorite of the evening.

The second poem, titled “Vltava,” is Smetena’s most famous tune. Knowing beforehand the piece’s purpose of depicting the Vltava river flowing through the Czech countryside, it was easy to feel especially imaginative during this poem. The dance-like beat flowed in the background as the audience was transported to magical and mysterious lands.

The third poem, “Šárka,” started out with a highdrama rumbling of the timpani and brass attack as the strings created a scene of distress. The tune transformed into a lovely melody, then turned melancholy again with a lonely and saddening clarinet solo, and closed with a determinedly triumphant brass feature.

Post-performance, I gained a greater understanding of the meaning of the poem when I learned that it depicts Czech legend Šárka tying herself to a tree, being saved by a knight, gaining his trust, and then calling on

her friends to kill the knight and his comrades.

The fourth and fifth poems were played with no break in between. The fourth, “Z českých luhů a hájů,” had an ambient sound with a very repetitive tune.

The fifth poem, “Tábor,” began darkly with what seemed like calls for help from the high brass in

There was a particular feeling of uniqueness to the performance because of the music’s connection to...the Czech Republic. the form of four repeating notes which would carry on throughout the poem. The orchestra successfully portrayed the feelings of doom and distress.

And “Blaník,” the sixth and final poem, resolved the strife conveyed in the fifth.

The themes from both “Tábor” and “Vltava” returned, tying up the stories of Czech history neatly into one powerful ending.

There was a particular

feeling of uniqueness to the performance because of the music’s connection to the history and land of the Czech Republic. The audience was filled with families and music lovers of all ages, and only a few tourists attended.

The performance was held in one of the symphony’s regular venues called the Municipal House. Placed on a plot of land previously used for the King’s Court, this building was completed in 1912 with the goal of representing the Czech kingdom’s capital in an outstanding way.

The exterior architecture is elaborate and accented with seafoam green embellishments, and the inside showcases beautiful paintings and obscure light fixtures and marble colors. The Municipal House looked even more magnificent on this particular evening as snow lightly fell and the audience hurried inside to escape the cold.

The scene was set for an unforgettable evening straying from the usual visit to the symphony. The atmosphere, the venue, the attendees, the symphonic poems, the conductor, and the musicians all combined to create a rare and memorable experience.

‘Star Wars’ gets gritty Nelly returns

By Karl O’Brien Contributor

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch” Jan. 27-29 Peabody Opera House The touring production plays more like a concert than a musical but will awe crowds nonetheless.

Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals Through Feb. 1 SLUMA Simply cross Lindell to experience art with an incredibly powerful message in conjunction with Holocaust Remembrance Week.

Another Star Wars movie has come out, and it was everything I, and many critics asked for, and so much more.

“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” is the first of a group of Star Wars anthology films that are set to be released every two years in “off ” years of the installments of the sequel trilogy, ensuring there will be a new Star Wars movie every year until at least 2020!

The film follows the rebellious and independent Jyn Erso, whose father Galen has been drafted by the Empire to help build the Death Star.

After being “rescued” from an Imperial labor camp, Jyn is taken by Rebel Alliance intelligence officer Cassian Andor and the reprogrammed Imperial security droid K2-SO to collect a defecting Imperial pilot named Bodhi Rook from the extremist Saw Gerrera.

Along with the blind mystic Chirrut Imwe and his friend Baze Malbus, they must attempt to steal the plans to the Death Star for the Rebel Alliance from the head of the project, Director Orson Krennic.

Rogue One explained many aspects of the Star Wars films, while also adding new dimensions to the Star Wars universe as a whole. Darth Vader’s return was well executed, and it was indeed a pleasant surprise to see a young Princess Leia and the Imperial Governor Tarkin again, albeit restored

by CGI. Several Rebel pilots were inserted seamlessly from lost footage, including Red Leader and Gold Leader from Episode IV and a few female X-Wing pilots who

were originally cut from Episode VI. It was also interesting to see the cutthroat hierarchy of the Empire, with the aristocratic Tarkin’s belittling of Krennic and Vader’s throat-hugging motivation showcasing the tough life of a working-man-level bureaucrat.

Quite a few elements of the film also tie it to the Star Wars TV universe. Saw Gerrera first appeared as a minor character on the TV show “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” in its final season, where he was trained by Anakin Skywalker, his Padawan Ahsoka Tano, and Obi-Wan Kenobi to liberate his home planet of Onderon. The droid Chopper from the TV show “Star Wars: Rebels” makes an appearance at the Rebel base on Yavin IV, and the ship The Ghost, whose crew are the main characters of the show, appears in the final battle over the planet Scarif, where the plans are housed.

Rogue One was also a very good film from a purely cinematic perspective. The special effects were very believable and effectively placed, and Darth Vader’s brutal slaughter of some Rebel troopers at the end of the film played just like a horror movie, right down to the fog on the windows of the narrow ship hallways and his crimson lightsaber blade being one of the only light sources. The film also adheres very well to its label as a gritty war movie, with the guerrilla tactics of the Rebels clashing with the mechanized might of the Empire in an awesome and thrilling visual spectacle. In particular, the camera angles that showcase the tremendous size of the AT-AT walkers as compared to the Rebel

soldiers, and even the Rebel ships, enforce the gravity of the situation.

The racially diverse cast also gives a chance for more Star Wars fans to have relatable heroes, with two Chinese men, a Latino man, and several women taking active roles in the Rebel cause. Diversity has never been Star Wars’s strong suit, but its few leading minority and female characters, like Lando Calrissian, Princess Leia, Padme Amidala, and Mace Windu, were well fleshed out and compelling, and Chirrut Imwe, Baze Malbus, Cassian Andor, Mon Mothma, and Jyn Erso have definitely joined these ranks. It was very clear which roles each of the members of the Rebel crew were supposed to play, with Jyn’s jaded cynicism, Cassian’s soldier mentality, Chirrut and Baze’s odd couple banter, and K2-SO’s endless biting sarcasm making them all both memorable and familiar. It was also surprisingly welcome to hear music composed by someone other than John Williams comprising the soundtrack, as it felt just like Star Wars, yet perfectly normal for a standalone film. I, as someone eager to learn more about the Star Wars universe, was glad to see that the writers took the time to name each planet featured in the film for audience convenience. Do go see “Rogue One” if by some miracle you still haven’t. Or, if you’re a nerd like me, you can see it multiple times. Either way, you won’t be disappointed, even if you’re not a Star Wars fan. Perhaps Chirrut’s mantra will even become what helps you survive the semester: “The Force is with me, and I am one with the Force.”

Lulu’s Local Eatery An affordable yet delicious vegetarian cuisine with an emphasis on locality and sustainability.

Courtesy of Lucasfilm Ltd.

EMPIRE: Troopers from the Galactic Empire are deployed to collect research scientist Galen Erso who is tasked with finishing the Death Star.

Courtesy of Nelly

LEGEND: One St. Louis Icon poses in front of another, The Arch, for his debut album cover.

Continued from Page 5 -able works and solidified his position in hip-hop royalty. Containing his most recognizable song of his whole discography, “Hot In Herre,” the album was full of the certified bangers fans expected from Nelly. The most important track of the album musically-wise, though, is “Dilemma,” which featured Kelly Rowland. It brought Nelly into largely uncharted territory, with a soft-sounding track detailing an unattainable relationship.

When Drake raps about his feelings and relationships, it is expected, but for Nelly to do this was incredibly bold.

The move ultimately paid off, and the song sat atop the Billboard charts for months.

The success of “Dilemma” must have been the green light for Nelly to pursue more “experimental” creations. Labeling his next album as containing a “grown up and sexy vibe”, his double album “Sweat/Suit,” is where Nelly spread his wings and broke barriers while doing so. Rapping a narrative about a homeless man on “N Dey Say,” and consistently using beats that sounded far from conventional were not even the most radical decisions of the album. That came courtesy of “Over and Over,” a collaboration with Tim McGraw, the country music superstar. Though by every

standard this song should have failed miserably, it has an infectious melody and became a huge hit. Far and away, the song is the most successful “unconventional” single in hip-hop history.

After the double album release of “Sweat/Suit,” Nelly never seemed to reclaim the top of the scene that he held for five years. He has released a string of solid albums since then, and has hit the top 10 of the Billboard charts as recently as 2015, and yet often is left out of the conversation of hip-hop’s greatest. Maybe it is because there was no great fight between him and another artist. Or because he is indeed from St. Louis, a place that has not produced an artist nearly on the level of Nelly since his rise. Whatever the case, he should be listed right next to the Kanye’s and Jay-Z’s of the world.

SLU senior and hiphop expert Dean Wilson summed it up best when he stated, “Nelly forever altered the state of pop music by showing it was possible that hip-hop could be consumed by such a wide audience. You don’t have the mainstream success of Drake, Fetty, or Migos without the influence of THE St. Lunatic.” So next time you listen to Drake pour out his feelings on a track, remember that would never have been possible without Nelly.

Sports

January 26, 2017 sports@unewsonline.com Lauren Tondl, Sports Editor Vivek Gorijala, Assoc. Sports Editor

Women take down Rhode Island after devastating loss to Duquesne, rise to 5-2 in A-10 play

Swimming blows past Butler competition

By VIVEK GORIJALA Associate Sports Editor

Photo courtesy of Bill Barrett

DRIBBLE: Junior guard Aaliyah Covington looks to find a teammate with the ball in her hand. SLU women’s basketball has an excellent 15-5 record, along with a 5-2 A-10 record. They have won eight of their last ten games.

By LAUREN TONDL Sports Editor

This past weekend, the women’s basketball team continued their way through conference play with a hard loss from Duquesne, 94-65, and a turnaround victory against Rhode Island, 68-50.

Over the break, the women wrapped up their nonconference portion of season with a respectable 10-3 record. They currently sit at 5-2 in the Atlantic 10, and have an overall record of 15-5.

The Billikens took to the road on Jan. 18 to visit Duquesne in Pittsburgh, Pa. The women started on the front foot when senior center Sadie Stipanovich scored nine points in the first four minutes of play to give SLU an 11-9 edge. The game was tied at 16 halfway through the first quarter, but Duquesne hit a hot streak to take a 29-18 lead at the end of the first 10 minutes.

SLU remained flustered in the second quarter. The Dukes opened up the quarter

with a 21-2 run in just three minutes of play. SLU scored a meager seven points in the second quarter alone, conceding a 55-25 lead in favor of Duquesne at the halfway mark.

By this point in the game, the women could not dig themselves out of the gaping hole from the second quarter. Duquesne never let down, and the Bills outscored them by only one point in the fourth quarter.

The women dropped the decision to the Dukes, 94-65.

Stipanovich and sophomore guard Jordyn Frantz both scored 15 points for the game-high, and senior forward Olivia Jakubicek added 14 points. Junior guard Jackie Kemph could not make the offense go for SLU, scoring only four points and completing five assists.

Despite the devastating loss in Pittsburgh, the women turned things around on Jan. 21 against the Rhody See “Women” on page 8

SLU swimming and diving turned in a strong performance at the 2017 Butler Invite, located in Fishers, Indiana. The women’s team finished first overall, while the men’s team finished second overall in a hard-fought competition.

Breaststroke was a particular point of strength for the Billikens, with senior Austin Nguyenphu and freshman Emily Kishish winning two breaststroke events apiece, in the men’s and women’s heats, respectively. The victories meant that a SLU swimmer finished first in all four of the breaststroke events at the Butler Invite meet.

SLU finished first in several other events, as well, with excellent times. A time of 1:49.74 was enough for the Billiken women to win the 200-yard medley relay.

Meanwhile, the men’s 200yard freestyle was taken by junior Ryan McCoy with a time of 1:43.01. Kishish’s winning 100-yard breaststroke time was 1:08.91, and her winning 200-yard breaststroke time was 2:27.09. Nguyenphu’s winning 100-yard breaststroke time was 58.31, and the time that earned him first in the 200-yard breaststroke was 2:06.09.

Freshman Savannah Nichols was another con-

tributor to the Billikens, with a time of 2:11.07 winning her the women’s 200-yard butterfly. Junior Mina Glenesk put in a strong performance in one of her distance events, finishing in first place in the women’s 500-yard butterfly with a time of 5:08.32.

McCoy also had a strong showing in the men’s 100yard butterfly, earning first place with a time of 50.56.

Junior Riley Kirby’s time of 2:06.67 was good enough for first place in the women’s 200-yard backstroke, and sophomore Isaiah Williams won the men’s 200-yard butterfly in 1:51.33.

SLU’s swimming and diving team will be back in action soon when they take on University of Missouri-Saint Louis and Maryville on Jan. 28. The Billikens will return home to take on those two squads, as the meet will take place at the Simon Rec Center.

The meet also marks SLU swimming and diving’s senior day, with the men’s and women’s senior classes being recognized in a pre-meet ceremony.

Afterwards, the Billikens will have approximately two weeks to prepare for the Atlantic 10 Championships, which will take place in Geneva, Ohio starting on Feb. 15. The A-10 Championships will last through Feb. 18, and will mark the SLU swimming and diving’s last action of the 2016-2017 season.

Track turns in solid results Men struggle to bring in wins over winter break

By VIVEK GORIJALA Associate Sports Editor

SLU track and field had a busy weekend, competing in two meets on Jan. 21.

Several Billikens finished in the top eight of the Gladstein Invitational. With the men, sophomore Manuel de Backer finished first in the 5000-meter men’s race, with a time of 14:51.86. Sophomore Matt Prest finished seventh in the same event, with a time of 15:10.60. In the weight throw, sophomore Brett Kowalczyk finished seventh with throw of 15.59 meters. Senior Griffin McCurren finished third in the 600 meters with a time of 1:22.62. Meanwhile, sophomore Tannock Blair finished with a time of 1:22.92 in the same event for fourth place.

The Billiken men finished seventh in the 4x400 meter relay and fifth in the 4x800 meter relay, with times of 3:22.43 and 7:45.58, respectively.

The women performed well in the Gladstein Invitational. Sophomore Ann Schmitz finished fourth in the 5000 meters (17:45.09), while junior Courtney Link finished sixth in the 5000 meters (18:03.01). Junior Elise Moore finished eighth in the 600 meters (1:38.26).

The men’s team also finished in the top eight in sev-

CHEER

eral events at the John Craft Invitational. Senior Michael Reader completed the high jump at 1.95 meters, good enough for second. Freshman Ethan Erusha and sophomore Bobby Jansen both completed the high jump in 1.90 meters, tying for fifth. Kowalczyk completed the weight throw with a 15.62-meter throw, good for third place. Sophomore Tom Malloy was seventh in the weight throw with a throw of 14.56 meters.

The women’s team won accolades at the John Craft Invitational.

Sophomore Avery Pacella was seventh in the 400 meters with a time of 1:01.69. Senior Hannah Rohde was fourth in the 800 meters with a time of 2:18.43. Freshman Hannah Pierson finished fourth in the mile with a time of 5:11.22. Sophomore Ann Harlos earned fifth place in the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 9.02. Junior Jasmine Jefko was seventh in the shot put at 11.77 meters, and sixth in the weight throw at 14.74 meters. Sophomore Sarah Reich was eighth in the shot put with 11.44 meters, and sophomore Megan Gahart was seventh in the weight throw with 14.61 meters.

The men and women will travel to Huntington, W. Va., on Jan. 27, for a meet at Marshall.

JEER WHO TO CHEER WAYNE ROONEY The English superstar striker became Manchester United’s alltime leading goalscorer, breaking Bobby Charlton’s 44-year record by scoring his 250th goal for the team. While Rooney may not be at his prime any longer, he is still a very valuable, and now historic, player for the Manchester United Red Devils.

history) in the 72-58 win.

SLU next hosted Winthrop on Dec. 22. SLU struggled in the first five minutes of the second half, but clawed back to briefly tie the score at 12-12. However, Winthrop built a double-digit lead and headed to the half leading 35-26. SLU tried to bounce back in the second half, managing to keep Winthrop from scoring a field goal for over nine minutes, but were unable to overcome the deficit. Winthrop won 66-55.

After taking a short break for Christmas, SLU traveled to Philadelphia on Jan. 4 to play LaSalle. While led by Agbeko and Roby, who scored 14 apiece, and Crawford, who scored 11, the Billikens were unable to overcome a 10-1 run by LaSalle at the start of the second half. SLU lost 75-54.

SLU traveled back home on Jan. 8 and hosted Davidson. SLU was down for most of the game, but kept the lead slim throughout.

At the 7:40 mark in the first half, freshman forward Jalen Johnson brought the Billikens within four with a 3-pointer. Davidson rallied to lead 47-28 at the half.

SLU struggled defensively at the start of the second half, but came as close as eight points with 5:41 left in the second half. SLU

By BOBBY STILWELL Staff Writer

Billiken men’s basketball saw a lot of action over the winter break, posting a 2-8 record.

The Billikens first traveled to Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Dec. 14. Despite sophomore guard Jermaine Bishop being out with an injury, SLU shot 60 percent in the first half and hit seven 3-pointers. SLU took a 3230 lead to the locker room at halftime.

However, the Salukis battled back in the second half, winning 70-55.

Reggie Agbeko registered his fourth doubledouble of the season, scoring 11 and rebounding 11; junior guard Davell Roby, who hit three treys, scored 10; and freshman guard Zeke Moore hit three treys and scored nine.

Next up was a home match against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Dec. 17. SLU played strong for most of the game, only slipping for two brief periods during the second half. Agbeko tailed 20 points, Roby and senior guard Mike Crawford tallied 15 points and freshman forward Elliott Welmer had six blocks (tied for third-highest in Billiken

Photo courtesy of Bill Barrett

LIFT: Redshirt freshman forward Elliot Welmer gets past the defense to the hoop for an easy layup attempt. lost 77-66, despite a strong showing from Crawford, who scored 16; junior guard Aaron Hines and Roby, who each tallied 13; and Johnson, who tallied nine.

The Billikens headed east again to face Duquesne on Jan. 11. Notably, Agbeko came off the bench early in the game. He went on to score 18 points and

grab eight rebounds. Roby chipped in 14 points and Johnson, who had his first career start, chipped in nine. SLU spent much of the second half either in the lead or close to it. SLU went down 52-48 with 12:06 left in the second half and See “Men” on Page 8

FEAR WHO TO JEER SIDNEY LOWE Wizards assistant Lowe stood on the court during the end of the Wizards three-point win against the Knicks, causing Knicks player Courtney Lee to pass up on what would have been a game-tying 3-pointer. Lowe and the Wizards were fined, but such a dirty play should never have happened at all.

WHO TO FEAR PATS+FALCONS OFFENSES Both Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan had 350+ yard days, as they dismantled the Steelers and Packers, respectively. The offensive masterpieces only serve to increase the hype around the upcoming Super Bowl, which should be a highscoring, entertaining game.

8 January 26, 2017 @OmnisportNews Chapecoense have scored their first goal since the plane crash tragedy last year. #VamosChape

Scores from the week Men’s Basketball Billikens 45 Chicago State 43 Billikens 55 Southern Illinois 70 Billikens 72 SIUE 58 Billikens 55 Winthrop 66 Billikens 56 Rhode Island 90 Billikens 54 La Salle 75 Billikens 66 Davidson 77 Billikens 66 Duquesne 73 Billikens 63 George Mason 56 Billikens 52 St. Bonaventure 71 Billikens 46 Dayton 67 Billikens 55 UMass 66 Women’s Basketball Billikens 64 Tulsa 70 Billikens 73 Washington State 70 Billikens 72 Missouri 61 Billikens 83 Lipscomb 38 Billikens 106 Davidson 69 Billikens 89 George Mason 50 Billikens 62 VCU 48 Billikens 64 St. Bonaventure 49 Billikens 67 Dayton 78 Billikens 65 Duquesne 94 Billikens 68 Rhode Island 50 Women’s Tennis Billikens 1 Kansas 6 Billikens 0 Arkansas 7 Men’s Tennis Billikens 6 Kansas 1

This week in sports Thursday, Jan. 26 Women’s Basketball 7p.m. v. George Washington

Friday, Jan. 27

Saturday, Jan. 28

Sunday, Jan. 29

Track & Field Swim/Dive Thundering Herd 2 p.m. v. UMSL, Maryville Invitational @ Huntington, Men’s Basketball W.V. 3 p.m. @ George Washington Women’s Basketball 7 p.m. v. Fordham

Women’s tennis loses in two matches

Dance for Food 3 p.m. @ Sun Theatre

Monday, Jan. 30 Winter

Social Dance Classes 7 p.m. @ St. Charles Community College

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Wednesday, Feb. 1

St. Louis Blues 8 p.m. v. Winnipeg Jets

Women’s Tennis 11:45 a.m. v. SEMO Women’’s Basketball 6 p.m. @ UMass Men’s Basketball 6 p.m. v. George Mason

Modified mascot welcomed into SLU community

The Billiken women’s tennis team opened the spring season against two tough teams, Kansas and Arkansas, to fall to 0-2 on the year.

The squad traveled to Lawrence, Kan. for the first match, losing 6-1 to the Jayhawks. None of the doubles teams could pull out a win.

The senior twin duo of Eleonore Tchakarova and Verginie Tchakarova were defeated, 6-4, in the tightest doubles match of the day.

Freshman Mariluz Rojo Domingo gave the women their lone win in a close third set tiebreaker, winning 6-4, 1-6, 10-4.

Sophomore Ally McKenzie also battled through a third set tiebreaker, only to fall short after winning the first set, 3-6, 6-0, 10-3.

Arkansas proved to be an even tougher team, handing SLU a 7-0 loss. The Tchakarova sisters were defeated in doubles again, 6-4, and the other teams could not find a win to get the doubles point.

However, the singles matches proved that the Billikens were not going to go down without a fight.

Eleonore Tchakarova lost in a third set tiebreaker, 3-6, 7-5, 13-11. McKenzie again endured a tiebreaker, dropping the decision, 6-4, 3-6, 10-6. Domingo, too, was unsuccessful in her tiebreaker, losing 4-6, 6-3, 10-7.

The women will be back in action in O’Fallon, Ill. at St. Clair Tennis Club to take on SEMO at 11:45 a.m. on Feb. 1. The Bills are looking for their first win of the season and are planning to do just that on their home courts.

Saint Louis Athletics

BEFORE AND AFTER: Left: The initial mascot after the fall reveal. Right: The new Billiken makes his debut at the Billiken Blue Out game on Jan. 25 in front of fans.

By LAUREN TONDL Sports Editor

After the release of the revamped Billiken mascot in the fall, the SLU community responded with mixed reviews of the modifications.

The SLU administration immediately came back with a survey for the student body. They received nearly 17,000 responses and announced just one week later that they would return to the drawing board to make some tweaks to the new face. The aim of the new mascot was to reflect the poll’s results.

On Jan. 25, they revealed their hard work during halftime of the men’s basketball game against UMass. The game was the annual Billiken Blue Out and also served as a ceremony for recognizing

Men: Fighting through A-10 Continued from Page 7

traded the lead early in the second half. SLU had numerous opportunities to get back on top late in the second half, but failed to do so. Agbeko hit a layup with 5:38 left in the second half to tie the game at 62-62, but missed the first shot on a 1-and-1. He later hit a pair of free throws to bring SLU back within one, but two missed baskets and a turnover on the next SLU possessions sealed the 73-66 victory for Duquesne.

The Billikens stayed out east, traveling to Virginia for a game against George Mason on Jan. 14. Johnson posted career highs of 17 points and 10 rebounds in this A-10 victory for SLU. Crawford and Agbeko joined Johnson in double figures, scoring 13 and 12.

SLU also forced 11 George Mason turnovers, converting them into 20 points.

SLU led for most of the game, but George Mason took a short-lived 54-52 lead with 3:52 to go in the second half. Crawford and Hines started the 11-0 run that secured the SLU victory. 63-56 was the final from Fairfax.

Students returned to campus for a game against St. Bonaventure on Jan. 17.

St. Bonaventure got off to a fiery start, shooting 60.7 percent from the field, and taking a 46-15 lead to the

Women: 15-5 overall Continued from Page 7

By LAUREN TONDL Sports Editor

half. SLU fared better in the second half, but only came within 14 points. 71-52 was the final score. Roby scored a team-high 17, missing only one shot all night.

Welmer went 5-8 from the field, scoring 11.

The Billikens next traveled to Dayton on Jan. 22 for a game against their A-10 rival. SLU got on top early, with a 10-4 lead just over three minutes into the game. Dayton took a 31-18 lead to the half after a 21-2 rally, and went on to win 67-46. Crawford led SLU with 11 points and a season high eight rebounds.

Agbeko and Roby recorded seven points apiece.

The men returned to Chaifetz to take on UMass on Jan. 25. SLU took their second conference victory, 74-70.

SLU remained steady on both sides of the ball for the entirety of the game, giving UMass the lead for only 51 seconds total. Despite a lower field-goal percentage (35 percent to UMass’s 47 percent), SLU’s free throws and three-point shooting carried them through the battle. This game was all about distance shooting for the Billikens as they scored only 14 points in the paint to UMass’s 38.

The men continue on through conference, traveling to Washington, D.C. on Jan. 28 to face George Washington at 3 p.m.

student-athletes’ academic achievements.

Several student-athletes lined the floor, and thousands of fans waited in an-

“

It was definitely an improvement... it’s more friendly. It’s just a lot less creepy overall.

“

Tweet of the week

SPORTS

Alyssa Seitzer, freshman

ticipation to greet their new and improved Billiken.

The new Billiken raced onto the floor with noticable differences, mostly in the face. The eyebrows and

eyes were made softer, the open mouth was switched to a closed position, and the two-toned face changed to an all-white covering.

Freshman Alyssa Seitzer enjoyed the new mascot. “It was definitely an improvement,” she said. “The jersey looks a lot better, and it’s more friendly. It’s just a lot less creepy overall.”

Sophomore Karley Kucera had a more critical view of the change. “I think it’s a little better, but it could still be improved,” she said.

“I’m not a big fan of the chin.”

While most were comfortable with the previous mascot of over 20 years, students will hopefully warm up to this balance between the friendly winking face and the competitive modern twist.

Rams in Kingston, Rhode Island.

The first quarter was a trade-off of points between both teams that ended in a tie at 13. SLU pressed on in the second quarter, and finally drew ahead at the end of the half, 35-33.

Neither team was comfortable, but SLU proved once again that the third quarter is where they shine the brightest. The women went on an 11-2 spurt to lead, 46-35, halfway into the quarter. Towards the end of the period, SLU drew ahead by double digits again to lead, 57-42, going into the last period of play.

This lead gave SLU the confidence to put the nail in the coffin in the fourth quarter. The final score was 68-50, and SLU never looked like giving up its lead.

The Billikens’ defense won them the game on this night, a different scenario for the typically high-scoring style team. They held the Rams to 31 percent shooting overall and 27.8 from 3-point range.

They allowed only 17 points in the second half, their best defensive product this season.

Kemph scored 12 points and took the game-high in assists with 7. Stipanovich added 10 points and eight rebounds, earning her a fifth place spot on SLU’s career scoring list with 1,367 points. Several other Billikens scored in the game, and 21 of SLU’s points came from the bench.

The women will continue to battle their way through conference play. They return to Chaifetz Arena on Jan. 26 to take on George Washington at 7 p.m. and again on Jan. 28 against Fordham at 7 p.m.

Men’s tennis starts 2-0 against Eastern Illinois

By VIVEK GORIJALA Associate Sports Editor

Saint Louis University men’s tennis launched their 2017 spring season in style, defeating Eastern Illinois 6-1 at the St. Clair Tennis Club in O’Fallon, Ill. Senior Paarth Dodhiawala, junior David Ferragut and sophomore Oscar Pachon won in singles and doubles to hand SLU the victory.

In singles, Ferragut defeated Freddie O’Brien by a score of 6-2, 6-4. Meanwhile, junior Charlie Parry defeated Grant Reiman by a score of 6-0, 6-2. Junior John Nogalski defeated Jared Woodson in a hardfought match, by a score of 5-7, 6-1, 10-7. Meanwhile, in the fourth match, Pachon defeated Gage Kingsmith in three sets, with each of the three sets being very closely contested. The final score was 7-5, 6-7, 1311. Meanwhile, Dodhiawala defeated Trent Reiman 6-2, 6-4. SLU’s only loss came at the hands of Eastern Illinois’ Marko Janjusic, who required a tiebreaker to defeat SLU freshman Justin Nogalski by a score of 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

The doubles competition saw the Eastern Illinois players Kingsmith and O’Brien defeat SLU’s Parry and John Nogalski, by a score of 6-4. However, SLU was able to respond with their other partner-

Saint Louis Athletics

RETURN: Sophomore Oscar Pachon returns a serve.

Pachon won his singles match in a third set tiebreaker. ships. Ferragut and Pachon defeated Trent and Grant Reiman 6-3, and Dodhiawala and Justin Nogalski defeated Woodson and Jacob Wendell by a score of 6-2.

The win brought SLU to a 2-0 record, including a win recorded from the fall. Next up for the Billikens will be a match against

Quincy. Fortunately, SLU will have ample time to prepare for the matchup, which will take place on Friday, Feb. 3. Once again, that match will take place at the St. Clair Tennis Club, with the match time being set at noon. SLU will hope to continue their perfect start to the season against Quincy.

&

Opinions Editorials

January 26, 2017 opinion@unewsonline.com Trevor Rogan, Opinion Editor

Editorials are opinion pieces written by the Editorial Board of The University News. The editorials printed in this space represent the opinion of The University News.

Commentaries and Letters to the Editor represent the opinions of the signed authors, but do not necessarily represent the opinions of The University News.

Are humans the next GMO? Humans continue to accomplish technological feats that change the world as we know it, often doing so in such fundamental ways that the previous generation scarcely recognizes the new society. Those of us in our late teens and early 20s will not be immune to this fate. We too will not recognize our planet, and it will be sooner than later.

For the past few decades, scientists have been toying with a piece of prokaryotic DNA that enables these single-celled organisms to defend themselves from viral invaders. CRISPR, as it is abbreviated, allows prokaryotes to remove the DNA that viruses insert into their genome, which, left unattended to, forces a hijacked cell to manufacture new viruses.

CRISPR edits a cell’s DNA, cutting out sequences that do not belong. However, its potential goes beyond this function.

For humans, the technology behind harnessing CRISPR could empower us to alter our own genetic code. With this power, as the saying goes, comes great responsibility. And with this power comes great risk.

The debate on human genetic modification, which assuredly will arise as CRISPR advances, will carry more weight than debates about genetically modified crops.

Already people squirm at the notion of creating something that did not naturally occur. That said, the word “natural” has no simple definition in the context of evolution and human-modified organisms, which includes our domestication of useful animals and plants over the millennia.

Sophie Lappe / Illustrator So far there is no scientific evidence that GMOs hurt people, but there is some reason behind people’s fears. Technology is imperfect, and scientists make mistakes. Humans have upset the balance of nature on many occasions, introducing invasive species into habitats and seeing them disrupt the ecosystem. One such case is the epidemic of Burmese pythons in the Everglades.

Thus, GMOs could outcompete their naturally occurring cousins if they were to somehow reproduce in the wild.

That is all to say that GMOs are not so different from natural evolutionary processes, but society needs

to be wary of the changes it makes because they may be more volatile. Vaccines are also not so unnatural, yet some people also fear the use of vaccines. Those who survive infections that spread from person to person gain immunity to the infectious agent after fighting it off.

Vaccines introduce part of or a weakened form of the invader so that one’s immune system can quickly neutralize the threat and avoid illness.

Vaccines have enabled the advancement of humanity. Human genetic modification, through the use of CRISPR, could be the next technology that changes the world of medicine.

Today, we compel people to vaccinate their children

in order to establish herd immunity. To not vaccinate your child is to put your child at risk. When scientists perfect genetic modification, will alterations become the next compulsion, either through the law or by public perception?

CRISPR could realistically allow us to eliminate several diseases, including HIV, genetic disorders and even cancer. HIV, a retrovirus, alters the DNA of human cells, making it impossible to eliminate with our current technology. But using CRISPR, scientists would need only craft a particular mechanism that searches for the viral DNA in human cells and remove it. For inherited diseases such as Huntington’s, which causes brain cell degeneration, CRISPR could be used to fix the sequence of DNA that leads to the disorder. Modified immune cells could better combat cancer cells to eliminate the risks of this disease as well.

We should embrace human genetic modification, remaining wary of the risks but maintaining optimism.

There is a slippery slope from curing cancer to creating a race of unrecognizably altered humans, but a slippery slope is also a fallacy.

Pushback, in certain cases, will be necessary and promote healthy debate. But we should keep in mind all the good that this technology can do for humanity.

We can control the fate of humanity with CRISPR, and we should take advanage of this opportunity to do so, remanining wary every step of the way. Although this technology presents risks, the rewards are simply too great to forgo it.

Letters

to the editor The University News reserves the right not to publish any letters that are deemed intentionally and/ or inappropriately inflammatory, more than the 300word limit or unsigned by the orginal author. The following are letters and/or website comments. Because the identities of website posters cannot be verified, all website comments should be treated as anonymous.

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“

“ “ “

Quotes of the Week

”

[Election night] was a victory for exclusion, division, hatred, bigotry...it was heartbreaking.

Penny Weiss, Professor of Women and Gender Studies, page 1

It reminds us that even after experiencing the darkest times, we must not stop ourselves from finding joy.

Nadia Sirajuddin, freshman, page 6

First impressions of the re-redesigned Billiken Below, the UNews editorial team writes our first impressions of the re-redesign of the Billiken, which was unveiled on Wednesday night.

Tom: My initial thought on the newest incarnation of the Billiken was that his chin is entirely too big. But that’s okay, because it is not the old Billiken, and quite better than the two-toned devil that we held as our mascot for a few short months. I can’t imagine the widespread reaction being too negative, simply because the mascot is an improvement on what we previously had. While the new one is not terrible by any means, I still yearn for the old Billiken who was harmless and goofy looking in contrast to the “angry” look the new Billiken has.

Trevor: The new new Billiken looks like a combination of the Billiken in-

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troduced in the fall and the previous mascot. I think it’s a good compromise between the two, looking a little softer than the fall Billiken and less like the TCU horned frog but still looking tougher than the old mascot. That said, I think the University should have spent its money on something other than a mascot in a time of budget cuts. I do not believe people, especially students, peruse a school’s logo or mascot when deciding where to spend their next four years.

Faculty matter more than logos and mascots.

Lauren: The best part of this Billiken is that we all know that it could be worse because we’ve seen worse in the two-toned devil that once graced our presence last fall. I’m mostly happy the administration listened to the backlash and responded so quickly. However, I do

miss the wink of the old Billiken. It also still has overly sharp facial angles. The craziest part of the whole modification process was the addition of a chin with an exceptionally large surface area. It’s almost impressive.

Overall, would the new mascot be a figure that I would want to run up to and hug?

No. Would I want to take a selfie with the new Billiken?

Still probably no. But, at least I won’t have nightmares about this one. Definitely a step in the right direction.

Kendra: At first glance, the new Billiken seems much less terrifying than the last. On closer inspection though, I notice that it still looks too threatening.

I suppose it is understandable since it represents SLU at sporting events where we want to seem more intimidating than we actually are.

The chin is the worst part.

The weird dimple on the bottom is like a second mouth from which I cannot look away. I think I feel so outraged about the new Billiken in general because I believe that the money spent on the rebranding could have been better used somewhere else.

Change is good, but I think the SLU administration should have asked themselves if it was necessary before deciding to fix something that was not broken to begin with.

Alexis: The newest Billiken reveal was not nearly as jarring as the reveal only a few months ago. While the new Bill has both eyes wide open, rather than its winking predecessor, his eyebrows still prove a tad menacing for the traditionally cheery mascot. Its closed-mouth smile is a far better improvement than the gaping void of a smile which occupied

the previous mascot. While I can understand the twotoned Billiken in the marketing logo, the mascot appears much more aesthetic as the traditional white Billiken we’ve all come to know and love. Amongst the heated political and social debates of 2016, the light issue of the mascot has brought about a good-humored passion from fans and alumni across the country, but has proved that it’s virtually impossible to please everyone.

Kyle: My thoughts?

Enough is enough. No more change! This is my last semester at this school, and this school is hardly recognizable from when I first arrived. In just four short years, I’ve witnessed a mascot redesign, a mascot reredesign, a new logo, new dining halls, new residence halls, a new Humphrey’s -- I’m even graduating with

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” ” ”

If you want to make change, stop complaining and take action.

Hera Gerber, activist, page 3

degrees from a department that no longer exists. Why all the change? Why does everything need a sleek, sexy overhaul? The latest iteration of the Billiken is, admittedly, an improvement upon the abomination released last fall, but I can’t help but feel that some things are better left unchanged.

Megan: I like this version of the Billiken much better than the previous redesign, however, I will always love the old Billiken. With that being said, I’ll miss the wink but at least it’s one color again. The two-tone was a weird attempt at trying to be dynamic or something?

It’s intense but not scary like the previous version and still seems playfully competitive.

Frankly, I’m glad the suspense is over and we can all move on. In a few months, maybe we won’t miss the way things used to be so much.

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10 January 26, 2017

OPINIONS & EDITORIALS

Exercising American liberties An ambivalent love letter at Women’s March to Barack Obama Fiona Clair

From an early age I assumed the position of contrarian. I hated when my brothers would tell me I could not do something, and I proceeded with rage to go out of my way to prove them wrong—even in the few instances they were right. I hated being told concrete things I could and could not do, and I hated complacency. Needless to say, I found my niche on Jan. 21 as me and 10,000 of my new friends marched in solidarity through the streets of St. Louis to protect the rights of women.

My passion for the cause was not accidental. I was raised by a combination of strong, independent women and men who supported them. I am not too inept to understand that both were important. One was often dependent on the other.

I have generations of role models to inspire my art, thoughts and actions, and I am grateful for their guidance. Even though I was the only member of my family to march in St. Louis, I had family marching in Chicago, Washington D.C., Seattle and Paris, and I am rather proud of our range. Without their support I would not be the feminist I am today.

By college student standards, the walk was early. I rolled out of bed tired and groggy wishing I could sleep

a little longer. It was not until I was outside getting ready to walk to the Grand Metro Station that I truly felt I was about to make a difference.

A group of older women were exiting the Laclede parking garage when one of them stopped and turned to my friend and I. After noticing our signs, she thanked us for being young feminists, elucidating how we lost a few between our generations. She continued on with her friends, leaving us tearyeyed and ready to take on the day. It was a helpful reminder that what we were about to do was not some silly, millennial complaining but part of a long history of tradition.

These women fought and gained rights I enjoy today. I can only hope that my efforts will do the same for future generations.

Somewhere between being crammed into a metro car filled with fellow marchers and slowly marching down the street chanting and chatting with whoever was near, I started to feel like an American. I felt like a truer member of democracy than any other time in my life, save for my first experience voting in an election. It was incredible. Living in a nation as big as the U.S., it is easy to lose sight of one’s place in the country. Sure, taking pride in a family, community, city or state role is easy. As is finding hope in an ideal or belief.

But there were few times in my life where I truly felt like I was playing a role in the nation. The Women’s March was one of those times, and it was utterly grounding.

This country is my home, and like any home there are times when it needs to be

tidied up. Sometimes the dishes get piled up or mud gets tracked in after a rainy day, and sometimes a wild party gets out of hand, causing a tremendous mess. It is our responsibility to clean up after ourselves and perhaps more importantly to help clean up the messes that other people made without being asked.

That is how the best households run. They share messes and responsibilities, and in return, they share resources and privileges.

Drawing from this metaphor, a child would not be expected to take on a huge responsibility like cleaning the gutters on their own. It would be dangerous and unrealistic. Likewise, a healthy parent cannot expect to get away with doing nothing but taking out the trash every once in awhile. Responsibilities are heavily reliant on a person’s capacity. We cannot all do everything, but we can all do something.

In an ideal world, our country could run like this.

If everyone did what they could to improve our nation, it would be a nicer place to live in. It was easy for me to get up and march in this walk. Walking down a street, holding a sign and cheering on my fellow women are all things that are well within my capacity. Broken down in this way it seems all too simple, and yet I know that these marches that took place all over the world made a difference. I know exercising our rights as U.S. citizens, no matter how big or how small, is a fundamental part of living in a democracy. It just goes to show what a little tidying up can do.

Destroying the flag disregards the liberties this country provides Allow me to recount this sacred Amendment for you: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition Corbin Oliver the Government for a redress of grievances.” AmendI am writing in response ment I, United States Constito the individuals who find tution it appropriate to cut up an It is important to revisit American flag at the Lipic Supreme Court Case Texas Clock Tower. I do not write v. Johnson (1989) to validate this editorial in an attempt to the Constitutionality of flag reargue an issue already dedesecration. In the majorcided by the Supreme Court ity opinion, Justice Brennan of the United States. My obexpressed flag desecration jective in this piece is to pubto be a form of symbolic licly notify you of how disspeech, much like the weartasteful your actions appear. ing of black armbands in Your protest stands as a slap protest of the Vietnam War. in the face to the very freeThe opinion was joined by doms that protect your right four other Justices, including to do so. In the vicinity of the late Justice Antonin Scasoldiers and first responders, lia. I do not write to question who ensure your liberties, the legality of your actions. you choose to disrespect the I write to express the great very system that provides the disrespect and division they framework for your outcry. exhibit.

In protest, you show a At the same time you gross disdain for the freeslashed an American flag, a doms you take for granted. deployment ceremony for I am not convinced you the Missouri Army National realize this Guard was simple truth. taking place Furthermore, in the Center I firmly believe it I am not sure for Global you under- is helpful to understand C i t i z e n stand that the the sacrifice of those ship. In the very system who wear that flag presence of you seek to soldiers stachange pro- you destroyed on their tioned along vides you with shoulder as a symbol West Pine, the means you mocked of honor. to change it. the work While prothey do to testing the ensure your result of an election is not freedoms. In the face of the likely to produce a different soldiers who lay their lives outcome (try amending Aron the line to protect your ticle II of the Constitution), petulant actions, you disreyou retain the freedom to do spected their value. I firmly so. This freedom, one I hold believe it is helpful to underso dearly, is guaranteed in stand the sacrifice of those the First Amendment of the who wear that flag you deUnited States Constitution. stroyed on their shoulder as

a symbol of honor.

By cutting up the American flag in a low-turnout protest, you are detrimental to true progress. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality...I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.” The vast difference in tone should be noted.

Dr. King did not tout a pessimistic rhetoric but rather a message of optimism and hope. Please know this kind of message has a better track record.

Through destructive means, you weaken the standing of your position.

Those who use the system to effect change are having to answer for the tetchy actions of the few. To quote noted author and leadership expert John C. Maxwell, “In America, we believe everyone has the right to speak. But even in a free society, you have to earn the right to be heard.” I suggest you gain more pride in the country that provides you the freedom to protest as you do. Similar actions in other countries would likely not be met with police officers to protect your right, as they were here.

We all acknowledge that the United States of America is not perfect. However, lest you forget that you attend an institution which many do not have the luxury of affording; lest you forget that you hold the right to vote which I hope you exercised on November 8 of last year; lest you forget that this country grants you the ability to protest; when will you begin to appreciate the liberties the United States of America affords you?

Noelle Janak

Barack Hussein Obama.

Yes, that was the name of the 44th president. I will never have the adequate words to describe how it felt as a young child to see Obama, a man whose skin was as brown as mine, accept the role of president. Twice! As I watched this man, a public intellectual, a lawyer, a father and a devoted husband, give his closing remarks after eight years of leadership, I could not help but feel the dissonant emotions of both immense gratitude and righteous anger.

Barack Obama, once accused by racist conservatives as being born outside this country, struggled throughout his two-term presidency against the competing influences of justice and assimilation. Under his presidency, the police have become more militarized, the military more excessively funded and so-called race relations arguably at their worst since the 1960s. In an effort to pacify white liberals, conservatives and others determined to ignore the realities of our long history of gentrification, Native genocide, slavery, conversion therapy and forced sterilizations, Obama at times became a black-faced defender of white supremacy.

And still, as Obama

reckon with his active pargave his final address to the ticipation in the Palestinian American people in Chicagenocide and the killing of go, I found myself weeping. I brown people in Syria. I canwept because I fear I will not not forget how at times he again see another face twicevictim-blamed those murkissed by the sun in the ofdered by the police and did fice of presidency within not take substantive action my lifetime. As I ponder against the Dakota Access the significance of his presiPipeline. I refuse to look dency, I must acknowledge at the first black president the strides he made. When through rose-colored glassrepeatedly throughout his es that depict what I wish eight years Obama menwould have happened durtioned the Stonewall Uprising his presidency. Just like ing, a days long rebellion any elected official, we must against police antagonizahold him accountable for his tion led by black and brown trespasses. trans women, I knew that As we enter a new time of I and my beautiful partner justified uncertainty, distrust were included in his flawed, and resistance, I am thankyet bold, vision of Ameriful for the ca. When strides O b a m a O b a m a sang Amazin ing Grace at I refuse to look at the first made last the funerals black president through the of the vic- rose-colored glasses that eight years make tims of the depict what I wish would to America Emmanuel AME have happened during his better. The presidency. impact of Church, I seeing such knew he a beautistood with ful, strong those of black family in the highest us mourning the deaths of office of our country cannot yet more unarmed, innobe understated. The Obamas cent Black people. When have provided an example of Obama repeatedly defended excellence, not just for future the necessity of affordable first families, but also for the healthcare, pardoned drug American people. Obama’s offenders locked in the cycle privilege as a light skinned, of mass incarceration and highly educated, and wellcriminalization of black and experienced senator lifted brown bodies and signed him into the presidency, DACA and DAPA into law, and still, we must celebrate I believed we were headed his accomplishments and towards a more inclusive, denounce the racist accusaequitable America. tions he faced throughout Despite all of his attempts his eight years. to honor America’s rich diObama may now be a versity and reverse centuformer president, but my ries of colonization, I cannot critiques of him and my love neglect Obama’s complicity for him will endure. in global oppression. I must

Women’s March: A step in the right direction, but not enough

Kristina DeYong

These past few days, I’ve been trying to make some sense of the different thoughts I’ve heard about the Women’s March. There are two major sentiments: the first comes from people reflecting on how impressive it was to see so many millions of people come together to hold peaceful, positive protests nationwide.

The other comes from those who’ve correctly noted that these amazing numbers were possible in part because of how many white protestors, who have been significantly less present at POC-focused protests, came out this time.

This, of course, begs the questions: “Why do you care now?” and “Where have you been?”

It seems to me that both of these sentiments are true and, in fact, connected.

I think there is a direct correlation between the high concentration of white women at these protests and the peaceful nature of them. This is not because of some saintly commitment that whites have to peacekeeping but because of the very prejudices that BLM and other POCfocused movements are protesting.

In other words, a major prejudice that women face is the general impression that

it is natural and right for them to be weak, submissive and co-dependent. This being said, it seems to make perfect sense and is so totally rad to come out to a giant march that essentially aims to declare “We are powerful!” in direct defiance of those projections.

People of color do not have this luxury. Historically, white people have depicted them as uncivilized or dangerous. This effort is present still in the choice of who is labeled “terrorists” as opposed to “shooters;” it is present in Darren Wilson telling a jury that an 18 year old boy looked like “Hulk Hogan,” like a “demon.” How complicated is it to organize a powerful protest that is aimed partially at countering these stereotypes? As opposed to us being inspired by defiant “girl power,” the reaction to these marches is much more wary: “Be careful out there!” or “Please stay home tonight! Protests on Grand!”

And, when these protests do turn violent, they are quickly turned into “I told you so” moments by conservative political pundits and their avid followers.

W h e n violence is the kind of behavior that is expected from a group of people, we must consider how these deeply ingrained assumptions affect the way those who police the event will react. I personally have never witnessed an outbreak of violence at the BLM demonstrations that I have attended, but we have all seen instances where overaggressive police have provoked violence for something as

If we fail to add our voices to this movement, it will become quiet enough for those in power to ignore it.

simple as not staying on the sidewalk. It was a very different picture at the Women’s March downtown. We were not only allowed to be in the streets, but there were even city blockades set up in anticipation of our arrival. We disturbed the peace; the police smiled at us. We chanted and sang; there were no counter-protests. We were allowed to set up loudspeakers; nobody was heckling. It was wonderful! But it also requires us to ask why this was the case.

To my white friends, specifically: What this means to me is that there IS power in solidarity. It means that if you showed up for this, and it was your first march, I am glad you were there. Now keep coming. In numbers, whites are still the majority in this nation. If we fail to add our voices to this movement, it will become quiet enough for those in power to ignore it. Do not let this happen. Make an effort to show up to POC-focused events. Although it is unjust, our presence contributes to the perception of civility and goodwill to those who are watching. It also proclaims that these are not just black issues or Muslim issues; they are human issues—issues that require only empathy to care about.

To conclude, I suppose I should say that protests and demonstrations are important, but there are other ways to work that are just as necessary. Make calls. Send emails. Support and read good journalism. Volunteer.

Donate. Vote in local elections. Call people out when you see them using insensitive jokes, generalizations, or other harmful rhetoric (including if you see it coming from me!). And, in any way you can, keep fighting the good fight.

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January 26, 2017

UNEWS THROWBACK With all the drama surronding the new Billiken, it’s hard to believe there was ever a time when our beloved Billiken wasn’t so liked. But back in 1984, the last time the Billiken underwent a significant facelift, fans of SLU’s cuddly, plushy mascot voiced many of the same criticisms as they did last fall. See what students then had to say:

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