The University News Celebrating 90 Years as a Student Voice of Saint Louis University
unewsonline.com
Vol. XCI No. 15
WINTER RECAP
HAVE YOU GRABBED YOUR TICKETS YET?
Find out how the Billikens fared over break
BSC now closing at midnight
Thursday, January 19, 2012
>> SPORTS
State-of-the-art security
SLU announces Black Keys and Artic Monkeys concert >> ARTS
Pevely demolition plans denied Committee votes against SLU 3-2
New semester to bring new hours
By EMILY CAVALIERE Enterprise Editor
By KRISTEN MIANO Associate News Editor
Do you know what time it is? Students using the Busch Student Center late at night should probably check their watches, as the operational hours of the building have changed. Starting this semester, the BSC will continue to open at 7 a.m., but will now be closing at midnight, two hours earlier than in previous years. “When making this decision, we looked at cost effectiveness and the number of people who were using the building,” Cindy Bush, BSC building coordinator, said. The BSC uses a system called People Tracker, which monitors the number of people who enter the building throughout the day and tracks the amount of usage the building gets. The former manager of the BSC, Chris Grabau, looked at the numbers reported by People Tracker and saw that the building had very low traffic between the hours of midnight and 2 a.m. “We usually have two desk workers who stay until the building closes,” Bush said. “It didn’t make sense to keep them there during those hours.” According to Bush, the new hours were proposed to the Student Government Association last semester. SGA agreed that the reduced hours seemed reasonable. The primary concern Bush heard when implementing the new times was in regards to events in the building that may run late and how the building administration planned to deal with the issue. “Most student groups are done with their meetings by midnight,” Bush said, “but if an event runs past midnight, we are willing to accommodate. It won’t be a regular thing, but we are willing to keep the building open for events.” The student center got the message out about the new hours through the BSC directory, digital signage, Facebook and Twitter. “Not many people are using the building past midnight anyway,” junior Tony Burton said. “I don’t think this will be a really dramatic change.” Not every student is happy with the new building hours, however. President of SLU-TV and SLU weather man, David Koeller, sat in on the meetings in which the hours change was decided. He felt the reduced hours limited his organization’s ability to work effectively. “For SLU-TV, we often have projects or shows that continue late into the night,” Koeller said. “A lot of the students who work at SLU-TV don’t have time to work during the day and often work at 9 or 10 o’clock at night, and it takes longer than an hour to get a project done. If we have to leave at midnight, that will cut into our production time.”
Blue the Billiken It’s freezin’ out here!
Read and Recycle The University News prints on partially recycled paper.
exempt from being kept in the cell, Signorino added that he feels confident the cell will not have to contain any Saint Louis University students. “We have some good students here,” Signorino said. “They’re too focused on their school work to get in trouble.” The DPSSS facility also features new evidence lockers to store contraband and illegal substances until they are ready to be processed, in an effort to keep the chain of custody in tact. The lockers include refrigerated compartments and storage spaces of various sizes for evidence that may be larger than average. DPSSS has also added more offices, male and female locker rooms, a bike storage room and a squad room, a set up which allows officers to get ready for duty quickly. “The layout of the space will, by its nature, make us more effective and efficient,” Corvington said. In addition to their new facility, DPSSS plans to implement several other changes this semester. The department hopes to start hosting crime prevention seminars around campus, which will be open to students. In light of the recent
On Dec. 19, it may have seemed as if Saint Louis University students were the only people not preparing for the holidays and were instead cramming and power-napping in preparation for final exams. However, there were others besides SLU students who were not yet on Christmas vacation. The St. Louis Preservation Board held a meeting to discuss the city’s Cultural Resource Office’s denial of SLU’s request for a demolition permit for the Pevely Dairy plant building. The board voted 3-2 at the meeting in favor of the Cultural Resource Office’s decision. The panel denied SLU’s request to tear down the existing building structure. According to his January 2012 message, SLU President Lawrence Biondi, S.J., said that he, along with the Lawrence Group and SLU School of Medicine, “made a strong case for the need for this state-of-the-art facility.” The presentation can be viewed through a link in the message that was emailed to students on Jan. 17. While it is known that the Pevely building is on the National Register of Historic Places, Biondi said that the building was added to the register for tax purposes. “No one pushed for Pevely Dairy — built in 1915 — to be on the National Register of Historic Places until the most recent owner, developer Rick Yackey, sought the status in 2009 to obtain tax credits for a housing project that was unable to move forward,” Biondi said. In addition, the architectural importance of the building was not referenced on the application. For SLU, this decision means that in terms of the Pevely building, nothing can be done for one year. In his message, Biondi said that the University is investigating further options. He said he is still confident that they will ultimately be successful. “I firmly believe that St. Louis should not have to compromise the health of its citizens to preserve blighted,
See “DPSSS” on Page 3
See “Pevely” on Page 3
Jennifer Wang / Photo Editor
In the new Department of Public Safety and Security Services communication center, the department has access to all the cameras located around campus. The communication center is one of several new additions added to the department after their move to the Marvin and Harlene Wool Center from DuBourg Hall.
Facility features new technology to ensure safety on campus By KRISTEN MIANO
New Features:
Associate News Editor
Department of Public Safety and Security Services has stepped into the 21st century with their recent move from DuBourg Hall to the Marvin and Harlene Wool Center. The move, which began on Dec. 19, 2011 and was completed last week, was a muchneeded change, according to Field Supervisor Sergeant Pasquale Signorino. “We’ve expanded our personnel, and, to be quite honest, DuBourg was getting a little cramped,” Signorino said. DPSSS has grown to include more staff and technology in an effort to make the department more modern. The new facility includes a new communication center that has feeds from cameras around campus. This way, dispatchers can see incidents on campus as they are occurring and dispatch an officer even before a call to make a report is made. Signorino said that there are plans to add approximately 190 more cameras as the department continues to expand. “I think the new center provides a place where we can do more with technology and a place that, as far as the communication system goes, has
- Communication center-feeds
to cameras all across campus
- holding cell
- new locker rooms
- computerized reporting
and dispatch
- GPS systems on radios
- evidence lockers
moved the department into the 21st century,” Signorino said. The new technology in the DPSSS facility aims to increase the effectiveness of daily department activities. Global Positing Systems (GPS) have been installed on each officer’s radio to better keep track of their location while the officers are on duty, and the department has begun to computerize reporting and dispatching. “The use of technology will enhance our effectiveness in ensuring security,” Roland Corvington, DPSSS director said. “For example, the integration of the existing video
surveillance into one location is more effective because, before, we had multiple systems in multiple locations.” Along with increased surveillance, the facility includes a new holding cell. The cell will be used in the event of a situation in which an individual needs to be kept in custody while the St. Louis Police Department is contacted, and is only meant to contain suspects for a short period of time. The cell has only been used once to date, but Signorino said that it is available for any lawbreakers DPSSS may come across. Though students are not
College in Prison program broadens horizons By ANDREA ROYALS Senior Staff Wrtier
The Billiken base has broadened, and through the Monsanto Grow St. Louis contest, it can keep growing. The Saint Louis University Prison Program, which offers associate degrees to incarcerated offenders and employees of the Missouri Department of Corrections, is one of more than 140 local non-profit initiatives competing for donations of up to $15,000 from Monsanto as part of a contest to help keep St. Louis growing. The Prison Program, offered at the Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in Bonne Terre, Mo., is funded through private grants. The award from the Grow St. Louis contest could be used to compensate for tuition, faculty and administrative costs, such as travel and fees for guest speakers. The program’s first pilot included a certificate in theological studies. The program is now offering a pilot associate of arts degree, which seeks to earn $175,000 to be sufficiently funded. According to Kenneth Parker, director of the program and an associate professor of historical theology, the award from the Grow St. Louis contest could
Elections loom for SGA executive board hopefuls By MARTINA BOYTER Associate News Editor
Photo Courtesy of Mary Gould
The Saint Louis University College in Prison Program offers higher education to incarcerated offenders and employees of the Missouri Department of Corrections. contribute to the goal. “This is an opportunity for the SLU community, especially students, to demonstrate to their fellow students at Bonne Terre and the broader St. Louis community that SLU cares about incarcerated people and those who work in our prisons,” Parker said. Parker said he encourages the community to vote at least once per day until Jan. 29 on the Monsanto Grow St. Louis website to help the Prison Program win the contest.
Mary Gould, a professor of communication who has volunteered to teach public speaking and small group communication in the program, said that winning the contest would demonstrate public support for the work the University is doing. “The educational opportunities we provide through the classes, workshops and speaker events we facilitate for the staff and incarcerated See “Prison” on Page 3
On Feb. 27, the Saint Louis University student body will have the opportunity to elect the new Student Government Association executive board and Senators for the upcoming school year. Elections are facilitated by the election commission. It exists to ensure that the election remains fair and impartial to all slates and individuals. Campaigns are monitored in hopes that the playing field is level throughout the campaign period. The commission aims to protect the merit of each candidate and the issues at hand. Current election commissioner Kathleen Cadigan explains that the commission strives to keep the senate and executive board separate. “In the past, the elections have been very executive board-centric, which is not fair to those wishing to run for a senate position,” Cadigan said. “We want to encourage just as many people to run for senate and not let them be discouraged from the e-board
tickets.” Each year, members of the commission are chosen by the election commissioner based on an application open to the whole student body. Cadigan heads the commission of eight. It includes SLU seniors Julia Charles, Anelga Doumanian, Christopher Fidler, Ashley Garcia, James Meiners, Krishi Peddada, Caroline Rutledge and Andrew Stevens. To qualify for the election commissioner position, a candidate must have previously taken part in an election. According to Cadigan, this is one of the most important criteria. ”The election can become very technical, and unless you have been involved in it, you would not know such details,” Cadigan said. For instance, the breaching of campaign regulations can be categorized into three tiers of violations. Based on the type of violation, a sanction is agreed upon and issued by the commission as a whole. In response, a sanction can be appealed. See “Election” on Page 2
News
2
unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Let Us Introduce You
Kathleen Cadigan
SGA election commissioner works diligently for a smooth election By EMILY DIEHL Associate Mulitmedia Director
With Student Government Association elections soon approaching and tensions running high, senior Kathleen Cadigan holds all the power as this year’s election commissioner. Cadigan has been involved with SGA since coming to SLU as a freshman. During this time, she has held various positions, including chief officer her sophomore year, putting her in charge of the entire staff. Now, she holds a position as a commuter student senator. As a triple major in political science, international studies and legal studies, it would appear that Cadigan has time for little else. Yet, she manages to stay involved in even more organizations and activities. Cadigan is an intern at the World Affairs Council, which is sponsored by the State Department. The program deals with international topics and hosts ambassadors from all over the world. Her involvement in leadership roles is nothing new. Before attending SLU, Cadigan attended the Global Leadership Conference in Beijing. From her participation arose the opportunity to attend the inauguration of President Obama and the following Youth Ball. From the moment Cadigan became a Billiken, she has been distinguished from the student body. During her freshman and sophomore years, she was involved with SGA and the Residence Hall Association. In addition, she is a member of the Delta Gamma sorority and directs Anchorsplash, the sorority’s main philanthropy event in the spring. Cadigan is presently devoting precious time to applying to law school, as well as a one-year Master’s program. The graduate program would focus on international peace and security or international relations. As her top choice for future plans, the Master’s
THE SLU SCOOP All Information Provided by Department of Public Safety and Security Services
Tuesday, Jan. 10
11:30 a.m. - Stolen Property DPSSS was advised that a 20” TV set from the men’s basketball department was missing. A DPSSS investigator is looking into the incident.
Wednesday, Jan. 11
2:30 p.m. - Lost Article A SLU student reported a loss of $2,300.00 in cash. She said she stored the money in her coat pocket while running errands. When she arrived at the bank to make a deposit, the money was missing from the coat.
Friday, Jan. 13
7:45 p.m. - Accidental Injury A female patron attempted to climb over a chair at Chaifetz Arena instead of walking down the aisle. She fell, injuring her foot. She was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Saturday, Jan. 14
7:33 p.m. - Elevator Entrapment DPSSS received a call from the emergency phone in the elevator from a parent of a student, stating that the doors on the seventh floor would not open. Officers and maintenance responded. The parent advised, he was able to open the doors from the inside and exited the elevator.
Be a Responsible Billiken STOP. CALL. REPORT. 314-977-3000 witness.slu.edu dps.slu.edu
SGA discusses rules for upcoming election Minghao Gao / Senior Staff Photographer
program would take Cadigan to London. Working as the election commissioner for SGA, her days are currently filled with recruiting students to run in the upcoming elections and working to ensure that elections go smoothly. Her duties will be at their height for the next month and half, working closely with the election commission and making this year’s election the most captivating yet. “As a senator I represent the needs of my constituents,” Cadigan said. “As election commissioner I strive not only to have a fair election but one that is appealing to all students.” Despite her enthusiasm for the job, Cadigan admits that it is not the easiest. “The hardest part of the job is when the heat of the elections comes and things
get tense between the tickets,” Cadigan said. “I have to stay fair and neutral while not playing favorites. I cannot endorse any ticket and have to take myself out of the situation. I know things will run smoothly though, because I have a really great commission this year.” Cadigan wants to make sure that this year’s elections distinguish between senate and executive elections. She wants senators to shine in the elections just as well as the tickets and to make sure that no person, ticket or idea is overlooked. “I am really passionate about SGA and the elections because SLU has the unique aspect of shared governance. I know that whomever is elected will have a lasting impact on SLU and I can look back knowing I helped make that happen.”
By KRISTEN MIANO Associate News Editor
With Student Government Association election season beginning next month, the majority of Wednesday night’s senate meeting focused on how the election will be conducted. Election Commissioner Kathleen Cadigan distributed election packets to the senators and gave a presentation on the requirements and rules for running for president, vice president and senate positions. Candidates will be officially announced on Feb. 6 ,and after that, starting at 5 p.m., tickets and independent candidates can begin campaigning. Election day will be Feb. 27 and the results will officially be announced on SLU-TV. This year, there will be a polling place set up in the Busch Student Center. The
polling place will consist of laptops on which students can cast their votes and will be open for as long as the voting period lasts that day. After the presentation, senate addressed the veto implemented by SGA President Matt Ryan. The veto was in regards to the events of the last senate meeting of the fall semester during which several student organizations faced dechartering or probation, pending senate vote. “There was clear disagreement in senate if we were being consistent with how we dealt with each group who came before us,” Ryan said. After a failed motion to table the veto for discussion next week, senate voted to uphold the veto. Next, senate discussed a bill that addressed the bylaws for the election commission. The bill proposed an amendment to the bylaws that would
ensure that the commission stayed unbiased during the election season. “We never used to have anything in the constitution about that, so we thought it would be important to have something about that in there,” Ashley Garcia, commuter senator and member of the election commission, said. Senate voted to pass the bill. The next bill, which was also created by the election commission, proposed an amendment to the SGA constitution that would require attendance at all remaining senate meetings for any students elected to a position. Senate raised issue with the bill, stating that the election commission did not have jurisdiction over events and requirements after the election, save for the candidate finance reports. Senate voted not to pass the bill.
News
unewsonline.com
3
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Pevely: Historical status halts expansion
DPSSS: Enhanced security presence Should an issue arise in a dorm, the desk worker can call or email their specific offiswitch from Whelan security cer to discuss the best course officers to student desk work- of action. ers, DPSSS provided training Officers will also have to the desk workers before a greater presence in and the spring around semester the dorms started. and make “ T h e more fretransition q u e n t The transition to c h e c k s to student desk workto ensure ers went student desk work- there are t h r o u g h ers went through no issues. seamlessly,” “ T h e S i g n o r i n o seamlessly. of ficers said. “There are very were hardly enthused any issues about getand nothing -Pasquale Signorino ting incame up that volved in wasn’t address immediately.” this program and the desk DPSSS has also implement- workers and residence advied a Housing and Residence sor staff seem pleased with Life liaison officer to further the transition,” Signorino ensure that the transition to said. the new security system will DPSSS also plans to create run smoothly. Officers are a new website that will offer being assigned to specific department updates and list dorms to work with the desk the dates and information workers and residence life about the crime-prevention staff. training seminars. Continued from Page 1
“
Kelly Hinderberger / Staff Photographer
Saint Louis University purchased the Pevely building in hopes of building a state-of-the-art medical facility. However, opposition from the St. Louis Preservation board halted those plans. Continued from Page 1
unusable industrial buildings,” Biondi said. Some St. Louis citizens hope for a compromise between SLU and the Preservation Board. Leading the request for a compromise is Randy Vines, a St. Louis native, Cherokee St. shop owner and a member of the Pevely Preservation Coalition. The Coalition notes that “SLU is a major employer and healthcare provider in the St. Louis region, and we support its need to expand.” Vines feels that it is both the strong educational insti-
tutions, of which SLU is included, and the urban fabric that make St. Louis one of the best cities in America. He said that the situation has the perfect makings to create a “truly visionary and state-of-the-art medical complex.” Vines has great respect for the Lawrence group and is impressed with some of their previous projects. However, he also feels the need to preserve the historical integrity of the city. “Someone has to stand up for these buildings,” Vines said. Vines explained that be-
fore the board voted, the Preservation Research Office held the Pevely Dairy design charter. Urban designers, planners and architects were invited to share their plans and ideas for the SLU expansion that included the preservation of the Pevely site. The event was well attended, and Vines said that the coalition hopes to publicize some of the plans, which will hopefully help SLU rethink vision for this site. “There is nothing greener than using what’s already there,” Vines said.
He added that preservation is an important topic and it is “about what we value as a city.” When the coalition announced the decision of the Preservation Board on Dec. 19 under the “Save the Historic Pevely Dairy Complex” Facebook page, they wrote, “Don’t underestimate grassroots action!” While students were celebrating the end of finals and going home for the holidays, the members of this local grassroots movement were also finding reasons to celebrate.
”
Elections: Coming soon
Prison: Bridging together communities Continued from Page 1
members of the ERDCC community, accomplish the same goals that we hope for all of our students of Saint Louis University,” Gould said. “To increase their knowledge base, help them become good citizens and community members, and live productive and healthy lives.” The Student Government Association has called the student body to participate in the voting cycle, recognizing that students enrolled in the program are also part of the SLU community. SGA is currently implementing initiatives to bridge the main campus with students at ERDCC, including circulation of The University News to the facility. “We are called to represent all students,” SGA President Matt Ryan said. “As SLU becomes a global campus, we need to remember that part of our world is just an hour away.”
Ryan and other members others to serve those in need. of SGA visited the facility “This program speaks to last fall, where he said they our Catholic Jesuit mission, to learned that the benefits of be present to those who are at the program are a “two-way the margins of our society,” street” and that students in Parker said. “Sadly, we must the program educate have a lot the pubto offer stulic that it dents on the is not an main camThis program speaks option to pus. care.” “ T h e y to our Catholic Jesuit Parker teach me mission, to be present said that things I 97 percent would have to those who are at the of the innever been margins of our society. carcerated able to learn population had I not will be regone there, leased to like sincerity -Dr. Kenneth Parker society. and apprecia“ T h e tion and things we sometimes great question is: How do you take for granted,” Ryan said. want them to return?” Parker “They show what it means said. to be a Billiken in a different More than half of those light.” inmates released are expectParker said the SLU Prison ed to reoffend within three Program coincides with the years. Through higher educaJesuit mission of the Univer- tion, Parker said the program sity. Coining the program a hopes to reduce recidivism. “Matthew 25” project, Parker The SLU Prison Program cites the scripture that calls is the only initiative offering
“
”
college degrees in Missouri correctional facilities. The ERDCC welcomes private programs to initiate such projects but refrains from using tax dollars to implement educational opportunities. “There is a deep and profound need for this positive and important rehabilitative work,” Parker said. To house one inmate in a Missouri prison, it costs the state $20,863 per year.Educating those incarcerated could help to ensure that those released do not return to prison, thus reducing not only tax dollars spent on correctional facilities, but also crime. “We have a hidden crisis that is bankrupting our states and making our communities more dangerous,” Parker said. “Your generation will have to turn this crisis into an opportunity, to create hope where there is despair and advocate for a different future for yourselves and those who believe that they have been forgotten.”
advetising@unewsonline.com/314-977-2813
Shah (Yuqing Xia)/ Senior Staff Photographer
Tim Janczewski (Left), Jimmy Meiners (Center) and Matt Ryan (Right) debated during last year’s SGA elections. Ryan was elected SGA President. representing and running to represent.” Ryan and his board are Financial restrictions optimistic about the future contribute to the and the potential for an comprehensive regulations. executive board to whom Candidates for senate they can pass the torch. positions can spend no more A good, smooth transition than $100 on their campaign. is important, he said. Still, the Non-independent Vice- present SGA executive board Presidential candidates, has four months left in their who enjoy endorsement offices. from a ticket, can spend The existence of an $200. Independent Vice- established polling place Presidential is a new candidates addition are allowed to the a budget election of $500. Have fun, keep things p r o c e s s . Presidential Cadigan candidates in perspective, and al- said that h a v e ways keep in mind who there will budgets be new of $300 you are represeting and a d d i t i o n s and $500, running to represent. to the respectively. election T h e process, Building but would B r i d g e s - Matt Ryan not release campaign details. that swept last year’s elections However, she said that it heavily utilized social media. should provide an exciting Current SGA President Matt election. Ryan recalls that the feedback “Students will really like was positive and the videos what we have in store, so stay furthered their campaign and tuned,” Cadigan said. promoted their platform to Those interested in a greater extent than if the running for an SGA position videos were absent. should attend an informational When asked if Ryan had session next week. advice for students interested Sessions will be held in running for a position, he on Thursday, Jan. 19, and said, “to have fun, keep things Sunday, Jan. 22 at 7:00 p.m. in perspective, and always in Room 253C in the Busch keep in mind who you are Student Center. Continued from Page 1
“
”
Opinion
The University News Talk to us: Parisa Rouie 314.977.2812 opinion@unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
unewsonline.com
Letters
“Freedom of the press—print, online and broadcast—is a basic right in a democratic society and is valuable in promoting the development of students as socially responsible persons ... The University News is a student voice, not the student voice. The views of The University News are the expressions of the students involved ... If [The University News] can represent a point of view around which discussion may develop, it serves a legitimate and needed purpose.” From The University News’ Charter
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 300-word limit or unsigned by the original 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. Actual letters to the editor may be submitted online at unewsonline. com or e-mailed to opinion@unewsonline. com. Please include your cell phone number.
Contact us: Busch Student Center Suite 354 20 N. Grand Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63103 Newsroom: (314) 977-2812 newsroom@unewsonline.com
Quotes
Advertising: (314) 977-2813 advertisng@unewsonline.com
unewsonline.com facebook.com/theunews twitter.com/theunews
EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JONATHAN ERNST (314) 977-1590 eic@unewsonline.com MANAGING EDITOR JAMES MEINERS managing@unewsonline.com NEWS EDITOR BRIAN BOYD ASSOC. NEWS EDITORS KRISTEN MIANO MARTINA BOYTER news@unewsonline.com ENTERPRISE EDITOR EMILY CAVALIERE enterprise@unewsonline.com OP/ED EDITOR PARISA ROUIE ASSOC. OP/ED EDITOR FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA opinion@unewsonline.com ARTS EDITOR ERIN EVERETT ASSOC. ARTS EDITOR TJ KEELEY arts@unewsonline.com SPORTS EDITOR JOSEPH CACCHIONE ASSOC. SPORTS EDITOR CHARLES BOWLES sports@unewsonline.com SCIENCE EDITOR LIZ KIEFER science@unewsonline.com RELIGION EDITOR ALANAH NANTELL religion@unewsonline.com CHIEF COPY EDITOR MARY KATE MURRAY COPY EDITORS HILARY KORABIK BRITTA NORWICK copy@unewsonline.com
TECHNICAL STAFF PHOTO EDITOR JENNIFER WANG ASSOC. PHOTO EDITORS OLIVIA OJILE photos@unewsonline.com DESIGN DIRECTOR TESS HEJNA ASSOC. DESIGN DIRECTOR STUTI DESAI design@unewsonline.com MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR NICK LURIA ASSOC. MULTIMEDIA DIR. EMILY DIEHL
multimedia@unewsonline.com
ONLINE EDITOR CHRISTOPHER WEBB
webmaster@unewsonline.com
BUSINESS STAFF GENERAL MANAGER CONNOR BERRY gm@unewsonline.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE NATALIE GRASSO ngrasso@unewsonline.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE NICK JESSE njesse@unewsonline.com
ADVISERS LAURA THOMSON lthomso1@slu.edu DON HIGHBERGER, S.J. dhighber@slu.edu THE EDITORIAL BOARD OF THE UNIVERSITY NEWS RECOGNIZES AVIS MEYER, PH.D. AS THE NEWSPAPER’S FACULTY MENTOR.
The University News is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, the Student Press Law Center, the College Media Advisers and the Missouri College Media Association, a division of the Missouri Press Association. -First copy, free. Each additional copy, $1.00.
Erika Klotz / Illustrator
Editorials 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.
Overnight shifts raise concern for students, contradict University ethics Since the replacement of Whelan Security with new security systems implemented by the Department of Public Safety and Security Ser vices, the Department of Housing and Residence Life has been hiring student workers to fill overnight front desk shifts in residence halls. This action has since derived the concern and dissatisfaction of many students who question the fairness of such changes. As it is, not all college students get the rest they need during the typical week. Whether it is because they stay up studying or playing video games, this deprivation of sleep is purely a matter of choice. However, when students are paid to stay up during the night, this choice cannot be evaluated equally. The recent changes in dormitor y security have created new overnight shifts for students to take. Henceforth, students will be managing the front desk of residence halls between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., and eighthour period, in two four-hour shifts. Proponents of this change claim that
there are plenty of other colleges that offer overnight shifts for student workers, but this does not justify SLU’s decision to do so. For a university that cares about the education and well-being of its students, paying students to work overnight shifts is inconsistent with the University mission. Ensuring that students have ever y opportunity to obtain their nightly rest is at the core of cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Offering paid overnight jobs, however, is in contradiction with this Ignatian idea. The University should take ever y step necessar y to ensure that it provides an environment conducive to student scholarship. Safety and security are important aspects of such an environment, and the University has taken steps to progressively enhance the safety and security of campus. But student wellness must not be forgotten, and jobs offered by the University to its students should be consistent with the University’s vision of student wellness.
SGA elections approach: Call for student leaders Student Government Association execu- needs. tive board elections are hardly a month away, As students, it is no surprise that they will and students willing to get more involved on continue to have their academic responsibilicampus should be scrambling to run for can- ties, but as members of the student liaison didacy. to the administration, they cannot take their Student government is an effective way of leadership responsibilities lightly. Candiexpressing the student voice on campus and dates must already have leadership experiexercising the responsibility as members ence and any sort of experience or knowlof the Saint Louis University community edge that will help them become effective to make progressive leaders. changes to the UniverThey must be orgasity. nized in their affairs There are many and aware of issues students at SLU who prevalent at SLU. Furhave acquired the They will be able to act thermore, they must necessary qualities of be willing to keep up both as students and as with administrative being student leaders, just by being students SLU events student leaders in order decisions, at SLU and taking adand any changes that vantage of the opporaffect students, to make sound judgments will tunities offered by the directly or indirectly. University. The Uniand decisions for the Candidates must also versity News encourremember that they welfare of students. ages student leaders will have to be transto consider running parent and honest in for positions, as more all their decisions and qualifed candidates affairs. will elicit more involvement and help to betGood candidates will have a strong sense ter exercise democracy. of identity as well as strong leadership skills. It will also provide more options for stu- They will be able to act both as students and dents to consider when voting, and it will as student leaders in order to make sound ensure that the candidate with the best quali- judgments and decisions for the welfare of ties will be chosen. Students interested in students. They will be familiar with the Jesuit executive positions are encouraged to be mission of the University and able to apply steadfast in their willingness to step up to the it in their everyday role as men and women responsibilities, but they must also be made for others. aware of these responsibilities and the seriIn addition to these basic responsibilities, ousness of upholding them. the strongest candidates will exhibit the abilThese responsibilities will include recog- ity to recognize what needs to be changed nizing and fighting for students’ rights and and the confidence to change it.
“
”
Posted below are the results from our web poll on The University News’ website. (18 votes total) What did you most enjoy about break?
56%
Sleeping
17%
Having no life
17%
Traveling
10%
Warm weather
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
of the week
“
As a senator, I represent the needs of my constituents. As election commissioner, I strive not only to have a fair election, but one that is appealing to all students.
- Kathleen Cadigan, senior in the College of Arts and Sciences.
“
”
See Page 2.
The transition to student desk workers went through seamlessly. There were hardly any issues, and nothing came up that wasn’t addressed immediately. - Sergeant Pasquale Signorino, field supervisor.
“
”
See Page 3.
The combination of a rowdy atmosphere and [Blake Shelton’s] performance made the concert a highlight of my time spent at SLU. - Matthew Reilly, junior in the School of Education and Public Services.
”
See Page 8.
Website comments You said “This free country is supposed to support the celebration of religious diversity, rather than veil it with neutrality.” but the constitution says under the first amendment “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…” (http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/bill_ of_rights_transcript.html) The government cannot support religion. Ergo, the government cannot support Christmas. You can call December 25th Christmas all you want, but you might as well call every other day Christmas too because it is just as likely that the birth of Jesus occurred on another day - research first write second on “End the drama, let’s just call it Christmas!”
This whole process is completely ridiculous and a complete joke. It’s too bad that SGA doesn’t have anything better to do than to create problems and talk down to a CSO. It’s horrible that they made your President wait for 2 hours– what a complete waste of time. - readytograduate on “Letter to the Editor: Building bridges or building walls?”
Opinion
unewsonline.com
5
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Be careful with ice this winter, you never know As all of us are getting back into a routine of classes, naps, hanging with friends, etc., many of us are also thinking about fun things Commentary to do aside from the same old, same old. Some ideas that may spark interest are venturing out of the city to go ice-skating, ice fishing, or hiking alone or with Dustin Paluch a small group of friends. If you do venture out onto ice, it is extremely important to remember that there is no such thing as 100-percent-safe ice. The weather has not been very wintery, which is why it’s all the more important to remember that if you do see ice, chances are it is not thick enough to support a person’s weight. This warning came too late for one of my good friends back in Green Bay, Wis. My friend Mike Philbin’s disappearance and death was broadcast on sport talk shows because his dad is Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin. Mike ventured out onto the Fox River alone when he was going for a walk -- a walk he would never return from. He was reported missing Sunday morning, and his body was eventually found submerged in about 15 feet of water. Mike had fallen through the thin ice covering the river. Because northeast Wisconsin had just gone a few days with 40-plus degree weather, most of the ice had thinned to a point where it could no longer support the weight it had previously. The week following the new year, many trucks, ice fishing houses and, unfortunately, my friend Mike were all reported to have fallen through thin ice. Imagine how nerve-wracking it is to hang out with a friend on a Friday, only to be told that he is missing a day later and then told again that he is dead. Many people think that, being from Wisconsin, we know how to tell if ice is thick enough to walk
Starla Salazar / Illustrator
on, but that is not always the case. Here are a few things everyone should know about ice during the winter months. Hopefully these facts, as reported by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, will help bring clarity to those who decide to venture out onto ice before it is declared to be safe by their local Department of Natural Resources. First, it is important to note that new ice is usually stronger than old ice. Four inches of clear, newlyformed ice may support one person on foot, while a foot or more of old, partially-thawed ice may not. Also, ice seldom freezes uniformly. It may be a foot thick in one location and only an inch or two just a few feet away. Second, ice formed over flowing water and currents is often dangerous. This is especially true near streams, bridges and culverts. Also, the ice on outside river bends is usually weaker due to the undermining effects of the faster current. The insulating effect of snow slows down the freezing process. The extra weight also reduces how much
weight the ice sheet can support. Ice near shore is oftentimes weaker than ice that is farther out, but many people forget that in order to get to the thicker, “safer ice,” they must first cross the layer of thin ice near shore. It is important to note that booming and cracking ice isn’t necessarily dangerous; it only means that the ice is expanding and contracting as the temperature changes. Schools of fish or flocks of waterfowl can also adversely affect the relative safety of ice. The movement of fish can bring warm water up from the bottom of the lake. In the past, this has opened holes in the ice, causing snowmobiles and cars to break through. I’m not telling you all to never go out onto ice, because it can be used for a wide variety of activities which bring joy to people such as ice skating, snowmobiling and just slipping and sliding around, but I urge you to be safe when taking those risks. Think in terms of the thermometer rather than the calendar when deciding to go out on the ice. Just because it was okay to go out on the
ice on Dec. 1 last year, that doesn’t mean it’s going to be safe on the same date this year! Check with a local resort or bait shop about any known danger spots such as aeration systems or traditionally unsafe areas before heading out on the ice. Have a plan of what to do if you do break through. Be sure to carry rope, ice picks and a flotation device to help save your life, or bring a friend who can call 911 and help you get out of the freezing water in case of an emergency. During the winter of 2000, an ATV operator who broke through thin ice used a pair of ice picks to save his own life. A vest-style life jacket can provide extra warmth and flotation in case you fall through. Be smart: NEVER venture out onto ice alone. Together, we can keep my friend Mike’s memory alive and help each other make smart decisions when deciding to venture out onto ice. Dustin Paluch is a junior in the John Cook School of Business.
Stephen Colbert joke campaign deserves to win South Carolina “I’m doing it! I’m doing it!” shouted Stephen Colbert amidst a rain of red, white and blue balloons. On Thursday, Jan. 12, the satirical Commentary political pundit announced that he was starting to lay the groundwork to “form an exploratory committee” to run for “the president of the United States of South CaroTJ Keeley lina.” In real life -not his television persona -- Colbert is a registered democrat. It seems, then, that his bid for president in 2008 had a little more than an entertainment gimmick behind it. With that said, Colbert is fooling no one. He will not show up on the ballot, and he knows it. Political pundits cry afoul that Colbert is making a joke out of national politics, reducing their life’s work to an entertainment gimmick. But isn’t that all politics has become in contemporary America? It is a pageant, a reality show, at once so frustrating and so fascinating that the politicallyminded viewer cannot help but not look away from the brainless debacle that is any republican candidate debate. One might wonder, too, why these debates are happening so frequently. The strongest strategy for a republican presidential hopeful would be “stop talking and wait it out.” Yes, these debates are such forums for pop culture fascination and pseudo-soap opera that they begin to take on their own status as a reality television show. And who wouldn’t watch a debate where Michelle Bachmann would be dropped into a tank of water? Instead of fearing how Mr. Colbert’s faux presidential bid would ruin the 2012 election, we should rather look at what it reveals about the current state of politics and intelligensia in America. Colbert polled 5 percent in South Carolina before even announcing his exploratory committee and turning over his super PAC to Jon Stewart. This put him ahead of Jon Huntsman. Yes, Mr. Colbert received a writein vote by one out of every 20 South Carolinians. Now all this attention does not directly indicate real support for
“
Colbert’s White House bid. If, hypothetically speaking, Colbert landed on the ballot against Obama, backlash would run rampant. The joke, as they say, would have gone on too far. Too bad few considered this when Bachmann ran. What the viral support does show, however, is a widespread discontent with the current state of affairs. And, America, can you hardly blame America? What do we learn about our country when the only person on either side of the aisle who is not absolutely crazy or a disappointing failure is a late-night talk show host? It tells us not only that many Americans, -- namely young, educated moderates -- are despairing about the current state of affairs, but also that this act of political protest rings true to them. Colbert’s presidential bid is not a serious run this time around: it is an act of public political protest by one of America’s last successful public intellectuals. Europe still reveres their public intellectuals. Say what you want about Richard Dawkins, Salman Rushdie and Christopher Hitchens, but what they all have in common is celebrity resulting from their eloquence, audacity and intellect. Here are three British men who challenge the public and are worshipped for it. In America, though, we worship fame, sex and money. Something is wrong when the most Googled people are Justin Bieber, Kim Kardashian and Donald Trump. America houses intellectuals – Al Gore is perhaps a good example. But, when challenged intellectually, we cower and dismiss these prophets as overly-political. Now, Colbert’s reverence likely results from his comedy more than from his intellect. But I would like to suggest that the two are inseparable. In a time of unrest, communities need jesters and fools, jokers and satirists, or else, as the Roman satirical poet Juvenal asked, “Who watches the watchmen?” So before you become too entangled in the web of late-night political arguments in the dorm that ultimately accomplish nothing but sleep deprivation for class the next day, consider Mr. Colbert’s protest in a more objective light, and give an uncomfortable second thought to his modest proposal.
In a time of unrest, communities need jesters and fools, jokers and satirists.
”
TJ Keeley is a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences.
Brandon Woods / Illustrator
Chick-fil-A on the wrong side We are all familiar with the popular fast food restaurant Chickfil-A. Yet is it possible that such a popular hotspot for many Commentary undergraduates at Saint Louis University is actually a major benefactor for anti-gay groups? Dan Cathy, president of this GeorgiaAshley Thakur based fast-food chain, claims that there is no “agenda against anyone,” yet after a $1.7 million donation to hate groups with anti-gay agendas, the contribution of this lump sum of money has been questioned. Many of the little side groups that this philanthropy has contributed to through Winshape -- a side company owned by Chick-fil-A that was created in 1984 for corporate giving -- have not only supported denying marriage equality but also “converting” gay people. Since we would want to believe that such a delicious restaurant actually values its customers, this news is shocking. Furthermore, Chick-fil-A senior vice president, Donald “Bubba” Cathy, launched the Marriage and Family Legacy Fund, which promotes stable marriages and goes against any same sex marriage arrangements. It really does change the opinion of a food chain that underhandedly funds such organizations. One of the more important issues at hand is that there is outright prejudice taking place amongst this company. Reports have been filed with regards to the employment process of Chick-fil-A. The franchise now requires that applicants disclose their involvement in certain organizations, marital status and whether they have any religious affiliations. If that isn’t violating enough, Chick-fil-A partnered with a notoriously anti-gay group called Focus on the Family.
In essence, Focus on the Family promotes the idea that gays and lesbians can choose to change their orientation. For a nation that has encountered all types of different discrimination, it is still apparent that we have along way to go in terms of acceptance. With close ties to extreme groups like ones mentioned above, this is far from a light matter. In the United States alone, at least 9 percent of high schoolers identify as being gay. Coming out requires a person to really understand oneself and be comfortable with his or her surroundings. Some college students testify that they still feel that they are picked on and aren’t as comfortable around their peers because of the potential for certain homophobic slurs to be mentioned. How can we actually allow a restaurant like Chick-fil-A to continue being outright prejudiced against our LGBT community? I am sure we all have friends that have come out or are in the process, so we need to think of the bigger picture and understand what it would be like if a fast food chain was actually funding groups that did not support that cause. Personally, I have a good number of friends who have come out and are proud of who they are, no matter what their orientation. As someone who cares about my friends, I couldn’t just stand here and patiently allow this discrimination to continue. I have embarked on a task to write a letter to the President of Chick-fil-A and voice my own opinion on this issue at hand. Unless action is taken directly, I don’t think this problem will ever get resolved. Reading the articles at hand in the numerous news sources such as blogs, newspapers and magazines, it is apparent that unless they are confronted about it, the matter will be skirted around and the evident prejudice will not be resolved. Ashley Thakur is a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences.
The China United States duality: Think again It has been all over the place. We have seen it on TV, in newspapers, in magazines, books, podcasts, movies and radio -- you name it. Commentary I am talking, of course, about the China-United States rivalry. Isn’t that what we are all thinking about? I find it extremely interesting that, for the Federico Garcia Lorca last few years, we have been fed the idea that China is an unstoppable growing superpower, a country with an unmistakable fate: to overcome the United States of America. Surprisingly, all that flow of information comes from the same media corporations that some claim to be somewhat influenced by the U.S. government. Maybe the government wants us all to believe that the U.S. is bound to fail. Or that China is bound to win. Or maybe the media at large is not controlled by anybody, and all this negativity is just stating the facts: GDP growth and those sorts of things. I respectfully disagree. Last time I checked, world economics were nothing but simple. China has been growing faster than anybody else in the world in terms of GDP for the last decade or two. Does that mean anything at all? What about the purchasing power of regular Chinese men and women? Because, while globally, the Chinese economy is second in the world, hundreds of thousands of Chinese people still live in absolute poverty. Cheap labor has been a major attraction for companies around the world. Unfortunately, cheap labor is not associated with more opportunities for workers or their children. Those workers comprise the base of Chinese growth, and that’s a big difference when compared to the U.S. Yes, the status quo in the U.S. could be better. More people could be less poor. Mistakes happen and nobody is perfect. Europe is going through tough times, too. Many people consider themselves as “antiAmerican,” which, for me, is a dull way of protesting against the established power. It is not about being pro-Chinese or pro-American, but more about celebrating the similarities and understanding the differences. Because at the end of the day, we must find a way of sharing our planet, the only one we have. You must agree that, without a planet, the rest of the discussion is little more than pointless. Which brings me to my second point of interest about this ChinaU.S conflict. Let’s imagine, for the sake of discussion, that China is indeed a potential threat to the U.S. in the future. Global resources shrink due to higher demands by emerging countries like China, India or Brazil, and suddenly diplomatic tensions burst into the next global conflict of human history. The Economist published a chart last December representing the different amounts each country spent on their defense budget during 2010. The U.S. spent as much as the next 17 countries on the list combined. Put in numbers, the U.S. spent $700 billion on its military, while China invested roughly $110 billion. As a crude approximation, you can imagine that for each bullet China buys, the U.S. gets seven. Also, look at the big Chinese military accomplishment for 2011: the successful refurbishment of an old soviet aircraft carrier. Meanwhile, the U.S. has 11 active aircraft carriers, and one more is under construction. This fact alone diminishes any odds of a Chinese naval victory. Not to mention that American troops are currently deployed across half the world with all the added experience and warfare knowledge that it brings. Maybe Americans don’t know how to bring peace to Iraq or Afghanistan, but it was clear long ago that at least they know how to bring a place down to ashes. With all of this said, in a hypothetical military conflict between the U.S. and China, my money is with the Americans. My humble conviction is that everything has been orchestrated by the Americans behind the scenes. They needed a business partner, and the Chinese were too proud to admit they had been helped. Like many times before in history, it all came down to reputation and saving face. Trust me on this one. China is the biggest U.S. ally. They just don’t want to say it out loud. Federico Garcia Lorca is a senior in the Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology.
Games
The University News Advertise with us: 314.977.2813 advertising@unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
unewsonline.com
Comics/Student Art
By: Tyler Sondag
By: Jennifer Wang
Crossword
Sudoku
Word Search
Arts OUT on the
The University News Talk to us: Erin Everett 314.977.2812 arts@unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
unewsonline.com
The best of the big screen in 2011
TOWN Arts Editor’s Picks
MUSIC Thursday, Jan. 19 7:30 p.m. Jack’s Mannequin with Jukebox the Ghost and Allen Stone The Pageant Tickets are $25.50 in advance, $28 at the door Friday, Jan. 20 & Saturday, Jan. 21 8 p.m. Friday 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles The Fabulous Fox Theatre Tickets available through fabulousfox.com Saturday, Jan. 21 8 p.m. Beijing Guitar Duo The Ethical Society of St. Louis (Clayton Rd.) $4 discount available to full-time students
THEATER Thursday, Jan. 19 through Sunday, Feb. 5 Times vary The Black Rep Presents: On Golden Pond The Grandel Theatre Voted “Best Theatre Company in St. Louis 2011” by The Riverfront Times Thursday, Jan. 19 through Saturday, Jan. 21 8:00 p.m. Avenue Q: The Musical The LGBT Center of St. Louis
MOVIES Thursday, Jan. 19 7:30 p.m. Bond-A-Thon: Celebrating The 007 Series with “Dr. No” Webster University Moore Auditorium Friday, Jan. 20 7:30 p.m. Bond-A-Thon: Celebrating The 007 Series with “Goldfinger” Webster University Moore Auditorium
OTHER Tuesday, Jan. 24 8 p.m. Craig Ferguson with Ted Alexandro The Pageant Tuesday, Jan. 24 7:30 a.m. Oscar nominations Announcement Live on NBC
5
Movie Review
T.J. Keeley
T.J. Keeley is a senior in the College of Arts and Sciences. Visit his blog, “Keeping It Reel,” at unewsonline.com for up-to-date coverage of the latest film releases.
The Golden Globe Awards were handed out this past weekend to the deserving and the not-so-deserving in equal measure. Nonetheless, the ceremony marks the beginning of awards season, so it is only fitting to count down the 10 best films of 2011.
10
TABLOID
The only documentary on my list in a year of really good documentaries, “Tabloid,” by doc giant Errol Morris, is not the typical social-activist film we have come to expect from the genre. Instead, Morris gives us a hilarious portrait of love, Mormons, London and pet cloning. You truly have to see it to believe it. And yet, for all its crazy subject matter, “Tabloid” is always fair and only seldom exploitive.
9
Courtesy of Fox Searchlight
4
This low-budget British indie feels like a gay “Before Sunrise.” There were fewer characters this year in film that were so compassionately conceived and lived-in as Russell and Glen. With its small and intimate scope, “Weekend” carefully explores the nuances of language, both spoken and shrugged, and the social politics of gay life in modern society. The care and sincerity placed into every frame of “Weekend” brought shame to all of those hip and ironic rom-coms we suffer every year.
Courtesy of errolmorris.com
3
MELANCHOLIA
THE DESCENDANTS
Perhaps the most important thing to declare about Alexander Payne is how audaciously and confidently he is painting a picture of modern America. Payne has covered national and high school politics and the American road trip, from Hawaii to California wine country to Omaha, Neb. In “The Descendants,” Payne’s eye is no different. Balancing unflinching dark comedy with a sincere compassionate tone, “The Descendents” is Payne’s safest film – and that’s saying something, considering we see painful scenes that take place in front of a woman in a coma.
7
MONEYBALL
Director Bennett Miller has shown a talent for deliberate pacing and for balancing small human dramas with epic themes and landscape. Of course, working from a script by Aaron Sorkin does not hurt, but Miller displays a careful and confident hand, never intervening, but carefully guiding the story each step of the way. He is a major talent, and “Moneyball” is the greatest baseball film ever made.
Reteaming with Michael Fassbender, director Steve McQueen crafts “Shame” into an intoxicating exploration of carnal desire. McQueen loves bodies and the tension between personal autonomy and political control over one’s own body. With “Shame,” McQueen manages to bring a delicate humanity to one of society’s untouchables – the sex addict. Some cry afoul that this NC-17 film is all flesh and no philosophy. They claim it is gratuitous. But I challenge them to name a less sexy film about sex this side of “Eyes Wide Shut.”
WEEKEND
The thematic sequel to Lars von Trier’s “Antichrist,” “Melancholia” seems to respond to the optimism of films like “Midnight in Paris” and is almost the antithesis to Terrence Malick’s “The Tree of Life.” (“The Tree of Death,” then?) Like Malick, von Trier offers lush images and is often called pretentious. The film’s weakness is also its greatest strength – it is a black hole of despair. In “Midnight in Paris,” Gertrude Stein says that it is the artist’s job not to succumb to despair, but to find an anecdote for the emptiness of existence. Von Trier is not interested in that second part.
8
SHAME
6
Courtesy of Paramount Pictures
2 Courtesy of Fox Searchlight
TAKE SHELTER
It is easy to read “Take Shelter” as an allegory for modern America. And sure, that reading fits quite nicely, but it should never distract from the intimate quietness of this beautiful film. Michael Shannon gives the best performance of the year, and Jessica Chastain brings his wife to life beautifully. A scene late in the film, in which Curtis and his wife argue about whether to leave the storm shelter, remains one of the most poetic and perfect scenes of the year.
HUGO
In the hands of America’s great director, Martin Scorsese, “Hugo” is never merely kids’ fare. The second half morphs in to true movie magic. Scorsese veterans – including editrix Thelma Schoonmaker, cinematographer Robert Richardson, and thespians Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone, Emily Mortimer, Jude Law and Michael Stuhlbarg – work to bring the train station in Paris, and the boy who keeps its clocks running, to stunning and vivid life. It is hard for even the toughest cynics to not be moved by the sheer joy of this film. I was particularly touched by the community of misfits who populate Scorsese’s last shot. “Hugo” is a gushing love letter to cinema.
WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN
What if you had a little boy and he hated you? Better yet, what if you hated him back? With “We Need to Talk about Kevin,” Lynne Ramsay manages to make motherhood as frightening as David Lynch’s portrayal of fatherhood in “Eraserhead.” Ramsay’s film is a masterclass in the use of mise-en-scene to palpable suspense. Tilda Swinton continues to flex her muscles as one of our most fearless actresses. Ezra Miller portrays a chilling older Kevin, a devilish teen who makes all the other kids with their pumped up kicks run, run, run, whilst resisting the temptation to make him evil through and through.
1
THE TREE OF LIFE
Unlike anything you have ever seen before, Malick’s film explores the origin of the universe and examines family life in Texas in the 1950s as a microcosm of the human story. Its visuals are awe-inspiring; its elliptical structure hypnotizing. This is a polarizing film, but one that demands strong feelings whether they be love or hate. “The Tree of Life” refuses to let you be apathetic.
Courtesy of Fox Searchlight
Student pre-sale follows Chaifetz concert announcement The Black Keys with Arctic Monkeys slated for April 27 performance three Grammys, including Best Alternative Music Album in 2011. To the delight of music “El Camino,” which was lovers campus-wide, The released on Dec. 6, has reBlack Keys will make a stop ceived positive reviews from at Chaifetz Arena with special music critics and audiences guest Arctic Monkeys on Fri- everywhere. The album deday, April 27. buted at No. 2 on the BillThe Black Keys are a board 200 and, according to blues-rock duo that consists Billboard 200, the album sold of vocalist-guitarist Dan Auer- 206,000 units— making it the bach and drummer-producer best sales week in the United Patrick Carney. The duo hails States for The Black Keys tofrom Akron, Ohio, and has date. been performing together The 11-track album has a since 2001. As Rolling Stone wide variety of songs, includMagazine’s current cover ing a mix of Texas Blues, Chiboys, The Black Keys are on cago Blues, Delta Blues and the second leg of their North Boogie-Woogie. Longtime American tour to promote fans will be relieved to know their new album, “El Camino.” that the album maintains the “The Black Keys rock,” fuzzed out, bordering psysophomore Garrett Seaton chedelic, guitar riffs that the said. “I’m surprised that duo developed during their Chaifetz was able to get them previous three albums, but to come.” perfected The duo’s on their well-known album songs include “Broth“Girl Is On The Black Keys ers.” My Mind,” T h e “Tighten Up” rock. I’m surprised lead sinand “Howlin’ from that Chaifetz was able gle For You.” “El CamiA u e r b a c h to get them to come. no” is and Carney the song have released “Lonely seven albums -Garrett Seaton, B o y. ” together. “Lonely sophomore Their two Boy” has most recent become albums, “Brothers” and “El the band’s biggest hit, having Camino,” have earned the reached a peak of No. 64 on duo mainstream recognition. the Billboard Hot 100 chart in Their album “Brothers” won the United States. By CHARLES BOWLES Associate Sports Editor
“
”
Courtesy of Mwadley
The Black Keys are seeing a peak in their popularity with the recent release of “El Camino.” According to Paste Magazine, The Black Keys sold out Madison Square Garden in about 15 minutes. This prompted the group to add a second concert at Madison Square Garden in order to meet the demand. Appearing alongside The Black Keys at Chaifetz will be special guest Arctic Monkeys. Arctic Monkeys are an indie rock/post-punk revival band from Sheffield, England. The group has been performing Courtesy of Kara Murphy
See “Concert” on Page 8
Blues-rock duo The Black Keys consists of Ohio natives Patrick Carney and Dan Auerbach (pictured above).
Arts
8
unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Grammy-nominated DJ sells-out Pageant Chaifetz goes country ‘Explosive’ light show complements Avicii’s electro-House beats
with Blake Shelton By M. KEEGAN JOHNSON Senior Staff Writer
By PATRICK OLDS Senior Staff Writer
From the sweat-induced front-stagers to the 21-and-up inebriated elite, there was no difference in enthusiasm or electricity among the audience throughout the show. With his right arm pounding to the ceiling, Tim Bergling, or Avicii, as he is known onstage, wowed the sold-out Pageant concert venue and his fan base with an exhilarating show on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Avicii plays to an ambiguous genre of music, which mixes House with electronic sounds. He is regarded as the sixth best disc jockey in the world, according to djmag. com. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, Avicii has a loyal and unpredictable fan base. His audiCourtesy of Jalil Arfaoui ence spans from teenagers to the awkward-aged fans that insist on going to clubs past Swedish-born disc jockey Tim Bergling, also known as the electro-House phenomenon the point of acceptability. But, Avicii (left), performed to a sold-out audience at The Pageant on Tuesday, Jan. 10. I digress. Unlike any concert I have attended, there was more to be outdated. lowing with his most popu- ends of the DJ’s booth— as the music than the lyrics. In The light show acted as a lar original songs “Fade into well as spotlights on the stage fact, most of the lyrics were co-star to Avicii in a way that Darkness,” “Seek Bromance” itself— and flashed slower not original— they were displayed the general feelings and, the most popular of the as it reached the calm of the mixes of other songs, put into of the audience through the group, “Levels.” The casual song. the unique sound format for spectrum of colors and light listener can hear “Levels” in It then exploded with which Avim o v e - clubs and bars, because it is flashing white lights when cii is rement. a common background that the storm of music, bass and nowned. I had many disc jockeys have come lights reached a peak. Upon the sneak- to utilize for mixes. The audience did its best my ening suspiThe climax of the show impression of electronic Unlike any con- cion that if was, unsurprisingly, when sounds during a well-known trance to the show, I blocked “Levels” was played. chorus: nuh nuh nuh . . . nuh I was in- cert I have attended, out the Everyone in the crowd . . . nuh nuh nuh . . . nuh. formed m u s i c , knew the song, and it was alAs I would later discover, that glow there was more to I could most like Avicii was pulling I had not the opportunity to sticks still feel thousands of strings from the think about reality or the outwere not the music than the the same ceiling. Everyone raised their side world. The show was an a l l o w e d , lyrics. e m o - arms in unison and did a re- escape from the real world but as tions that peated triceps extension, cou- from 9 p.m. to midnight. the perI equate pled with a rhythmic jumping The performance made it formance with the action. difficult to disallow the intoxiwent on, m u s i c One couldn’t help but fol- cating sounds into one’s soul. it was apalone. low the crowd— it felt natural For whatever personal reaparent that they were comIt was as if I was witness- to express enthusiasm in this sons that each fan embraces pletely unnecessary. The light ing a generational evolution of way, as if the audience was the sound of Avicii, be it the show was as impressive as the concert format. taking in electricity through r epetitious-but-not-tiring the music, even to an avid fan. The atmosphere was thick their arms, and allowing sounds, the exotic use of basLight shows that accom- and intense, from those that the electricity to percolate esor the absence of words to pany concerts, as a general stood at the front of the stage through their bodies. provide for a more open-endrule, can be entertaining and to those at the bar, requestThe party had officially ed interpretation by the lissupplementary to the main ing that the bartenders oblige reached maximum intensity tener, the audience would not performance, but this show their every request. with the light show that waved rather have been anywhere proved that common law to Avicii has created a fol- different colors on opposite but at The Pageant that night.
“
”
Concert: Students vie for tickets to The Black Keys with Arctic Monkeys
Courtesy of Stephen Clark
Arctic Monkeys, an English rock band, will appear alongside The Black Keys at Chaifetz Arena on April 27. Pre-sale tickets were made available to SLU students last week. Continued from Page 7
together since 2002, and currently consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Alex Turner, guitarist Jamie Cook, bass guitarist Nick O’Malley and drummer and percussionist Matt Helders. According to The Guardian, Arctic Monkeys are heralded as one of the first acts to come to the public attention via the Internet. Some of Arctic Monkey’s most recognized hits include “Brianstorm,” “Fluorescent Adolescent,” “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” and “A View from the Afternoon.” The group’s most recent album, “Suck it and See,” is the group’s fourth studio album. According to theofficialcharts.com— the United
Kingdom’s version of Billboard— the album debuted at No. 1 in its first week of release, selling over 82,000 units. The album peaked at
“
Arctic Monkeys are heralded as one of the first acts to come to the public attention via the Internet.
”
No. 14 on Billboard 200 in the United States. On Thursday, Jan. 12, SLU students were given access to
pre-sale tickets for the highlyanticipated April performances. The pre-sale was aided by multiple organizations, including Student Activities Board and the Student Government Association. Unlike the Lupe Fiasco concert in September, students had to purchase tickets at face value. The best available seats are currently in section 213 of the arena. In recent years, Chaifetz Arena has been visited by some of the music industry’s biggest powerhouses, including Lupe Fiasco, Carrie Underwood and Blake Shelton. The Black Keys and Arctic Monkeys concert will add to Chaifetz’s popularity as a concert venue, and will likely become one of the major events in the spring semester for SLU students.
Flannel-clad individuals filled the seats of a sold out Chaifetz Arena on Friday, Jan.13 for the second stop on country superstar Blake Shelton’s “Well Lit & Amplified” Tour. Chaifetz’s concrete walls served as an exceptional acoustic environment for Shelton’s powerful pipes and lyrics to crisply ring through the air. His set list included songs picked from an expansive selection of chart-toppers, with a few surprises to keep things fresh. Saint Louis University junior Matthew Reilly was a member of the many packs of Billikens who were treated to the voice of the reigning Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year award winner. “[Shelton] is a huge name in the landscape of country music,” Reilly said. “The combination of a rowdy atmosphere and his performance made the concert a highlight of my time spent at SLU.” He set the tone for the evening by opening with his recently released remake of “Footloose,” inviting the crowd to prepare for a night of good times. He then followed the cover with the footstomping anthem, “All About Tonight.” With the crowd in a raucous frenzy, Shelton opted to cool things down with a triad of sing-along love ballads, and strummed a pair of solo acoustic tunes, including “Austin” and “Don’t Make Me.” Shelton’s relatable lyrics and down-home sense of humor allowed for the Oklahoma native to strike-up an instant rapport with the fans. He mixed in a handful of his patented smart-aleck jokes to the crowd, while he directed some of the laughs at himself, taking jabs at his redneck lifestyle. Shelton teased the crowd by singing the first couple lines to the song that sits atop the country music charts— David Nail’s “Let it Rain” — only to cut it short. Fans erupted as Nail, a Missourian,
strode onto the stage to finish the hit where Shelton left off. Shelton pleased any noncountry fans that might have happened to make their way into the audience by paying homage to his pal and fellow “The Voice” coach Cee Lo Green. Shelton performed a country-pop crossover cover of Green’s “Forget You.” No word on whether Green will return the favor by belting out Shelton’s popular jam “Hillbilly Bone” at his next show. The opening acts, Justin Moore and Dia Frampton, were also well received. Frampton, a newcomer to the country scene, took the stage first and blended a mixture of her original tunes off her debut studio album, “Red,” and classics from artists such as Patsy Cline and the Dixie Chicks. Moore, the epitome of backwoods country, worked the crowd in his trademark ten-gallon hat, singing his recent hits “Small Town USA” and “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away.” Together, Moore, Frampton and Shelton put on a solid show for a tour that is still in its infancy. The trio has a jammed spring and summer ahead of them, including 39 shows that span across 25 states, plus two stints in Canada.
Courtesy of Giantmuh
Country crooner Blake Shelton made a stop at Chaifetz Arena on Jan. 13.
Sports
>>Men’s Basketball
Billiken Briefs Soccer Star Drafted The New England Revolution drafted Billiken forward Mike Roach in the fourth round of the MLS Supplemental Draft. Roach led the team in assists and was third on the team in points, even with an injury-stricken senior season. His best season was his sophomore year when he led the Bills with 24 points (11 goals, 2 assists).
Women’s Basketball Struggles After back-to-back wins over Saint Francis and Nebraska-Omaha, the women’s basketball team took a few steps back by losing three consecutive games to start conference play. Janisha Gearlds scored 19 points in a loss to St. Bonaventure, and Jacy Bradley scored 16 in a loss to Charlotte. The Lady Billikens have an overall record of 6-12 with a 0-3 Atlantic-10 conference record. They next play against Rhode Island at home on CBS Sports Network.
BILLIKEN SCOREBOARD
The University News Talk to us: Joseph Cacchione 314.977.2812 sports@unewsonline.com
Thursday, January 19, 2012
unewsonline.com
Billikens up-and-down in Atlantic 10
Women’s swimming A pair of losses leave SLU in the middle of conference pack takes 1st place By CHRIS ACKELS
By JOSEPH CACCHIONE
Staff Writer
Sports Editor
Winter break for the men’s basketball team has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride in what began as a year full of optimism and promise. The Billikens began their break by improving their record to 10-1 with an easy victory over Alabama State. A 17-0 run to start the game set the stage for the dominating performance. The success continued with another victory over Texas Southern, a team that at that time only had one win on the season. Brian Conklin led all scores for 15 points and also contributed 4 rebounds. A road trip to “The Pit” proved to be too much though, as the Bills lost a heartbreaker to perennial powerhouse New Mexico. With an overall record standing at 12-2, the Billikens sat high in the Atlantic 10 standings with their first conference matchup against Dayton looming in the horizon. The Bills trailed late in the second half against Dayton, and it looked as though they were all but out, but a clutch 3-point basket at the end of regulation by Cody Ellis forced the game into OT. Dayton’s offense was just too strong though, and the Billikens lost an agonizing 72-79 decision to begin conference play. Two straight losses, however, did not faze them, as they battled hard against George Washington University and came out with a decisive 78-56 victory at Chaifetz Arena. Dwayne Evans’s double-double (19 points, 11 rebounds) paved the way for the Bills and helped to end the two-game skid. The celebrating did not last for long, because Temple came to town and left the Billikens under .500 in the conference after a 72-67 victory. After this loss, SLU stopped receiving votes to be placed in
Shah (Yuqing) Xia / Senior Staff Photographer
Junior guard Kwamain Mitchell (3) has averaged 13.7 Points, 3.2 Rebounds and 3.2 Assists during Atlantic 10 conference play this season. the NCAA top 25 rankings. The break did not get any easier when Charlotte came to town and took a 14-point lead into the half thanks to 17 Billiken turnovers. However, solid play from Mike McCall and strong 3-point shooting by Kwamain Mitchell charged a Bills comeback, and they wound up winning by a final score of 68-67. The Billikens have lost three of their last five games and are entering a pivotal stretch in their schedule by facing Xavier and UMass on the road in the upcoming weeks. With their NCAA tournament hopes diminishing with each loss, the Bills hope to enter February with a 5-2 conference record and prove to the experts that they are just as strong now as they were at the beginning of the year. Duquesne comes to Chaifetz Arena on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m.
Team
Xavier Dayton Massachusetts Duquesne
Saint Louis
Conference Record 4-‐1 3-‐1 3-‐2 3-‐2
Overall Record 13-‐5 13-‐5 14-‐5 12-‐7
2-‐2 2-‐2 2-‐2 2-‐2 2-‐2 2-‐2
12-‐5 13-‐6 10-‐7 11-‐8 9-‐7 7-‐11
Temple La Salle Charlotte Richmond St. Bonaventure George Washington Saint Joseph’s Fordham Rhode Island
2-‐2
2-‐3 1-‐3 0-‐4
14-‐4
12-‐7 8-‐9 3-‐16
The wild, wild Atlantic 10: SLU stuck in the middle of a mess R
Men’s Basketball
L 72-79 @ Dayton
W 78-56 vs. George Washington
L 67-72
vs. Temple
W 68-67 @ Charlotte Women’s Basketball
L 52-53 vs. La Salle
L 52-61
@ Charlotte
While most students were gone for winter break, the Saint Louis University men’s basketball team was hard at work finishWing their non-conference season and beginning their CHARLES BOWLES Atlantic 10 conference season. After seeing the Billikens and most of the A-10 conference games, I believe that a few conclusions can be made. 1. The A-10 is going to be a lot crazier than expected. According to Fox Sports Network in October, the A-10 was going to be a two-horse race of the traditional powers, Temple and Xavier. This, however, is not the case. Before Wednesday’s games, there was a threeway tie for first place between Xavier, Massachusetts and Dayton, who all held a 3-1 conference record. Massachusetts was projected 12th in October’s A-10 preseason poll. UMass is currently at 14-5 overall, which is tied for the most overall wins with SLU. Dayton, who was projected sixth in the A-10 preseason poll, has beaten SLU in overtime and beat Temple on the road. Their overall record stands at 13-5. Dayton is a strong team led by junior guard Kevin Dillard, as well as a strong and experienced front court
@ St. Bonaventure
Curtis Wang / The University News
Senior forward Brian Conklin (14) is a key to the Billikens success and how far they will go in the Atlantic 10. led by senior forwards Chris Johnson and Luke Fabrizius and junior center Matt Kavanaugh. Dayton is thriving even without their second leading scorer junior forward, Jon Benson, who is out for the season with a torn ACL. The A-10 is crazy. La Salle, who was projected 13th in the preseason poll, briefly led the conference standings at one point. Temple, a traditional A-10 power, is 1-2 in conference play, with their only win coming against SLU. Temple cur-
rently is without their leading rebounder forward Micheal Eric, who is recovering from a knee injury. Xavier lost five out of six games after their infamous brawl with Cincinnati. They lost their first game in A-10 conference play to La Salle, but they have quickly turned around with four straight conference games. And where is SLU in all of this mess? SLU is currently is a seven-way tie for fifth place in the A-10 conference standings with Charlotte, George Wash-
Who to
Who to
CHEER
JEER
Tom Brady L 52-64
>>Swimming and Diving
Courtesy of Mike Fanelli
The New England Patriot QB tied an NFL postseason record six touchdowns against the Denver Broncos, while his opponent Tim Tebow had many passes that were described as “wounded ducks.” To be fair, Tebow went on to build hospitals to nurture such ducks back to health.
Fran McCaffery
ington, La Salle, Richmond, St. Bonaventure, and Temple. After just four or five conference games for most teams, two things are certain: The A-10 is in for a crazy year with Xavier on top, but with more competition than ever before. Also, this has definitely provided reason to never trust preseason polls. 2. SLU has demonstrated ability to come back. After being narrowly beaten in games against New Mexico, Dayton and Temple, the Billikens seemed to have a hard time coming back from a deficit. However, all of that changed with the Billikens’ narrow victory over Charlotte on the road. The Bills were down by 14 in the first half, but they came roaring back and had a 62-49 lead with 4:15 remaining. Although they could not maintain that lead, the Bills at least showed they can come back and fight through adversity. While it is concerning that they did not hold that 14-point lead, at the end of the day, win is a win. 3. The power of Xavier may not continue to reign over the A-10. Even though Xavier still rules the conference, this year is the year that their grip on the A-10 might loosen. The A-10 has many good and experienced teams. Temple, Dayton, SLU and St. Bonaventure all have a good chance to win the A-10 regular season title, and perhaps the A-10 tournament championship.
Less than two minutes into the Washington University Invitational last weekend, the Saint Louis University women’s swimming & diving team had established a lead. They would never give it up the rest of the day. The Billikens took the opening event by registering a 1:52.06 in the 200-yard medley relay. They followed that with an individual win, as senior Taylor Streid trounced the competition in the individual 200yard medley. Streid finished at 2:10.67, a full five seconds faster than the competition. It was the first of three individual wins for the senior that day. Streid later registered a 1:00.46 in the 100-yard backstroke, and then touched at 59.30 in the 100-yard butterfly to earn her third individual victory. She was the only swimmer to finish the 100-yard butterfly in under a minute. Sophomore Lizzy Osterman continued her year-long success with two individual victories on the day. She took the individual 200-yard butterfly with a time of 2:12.07 early in the meet, then followed it up with a 1:58.09 mark in the 200-yard freestyle. Osterman has been strong all season for the Billikens, in both individual events and in relays. The relay teams were particularly successful, sweeping all four relay events on the day. After opening the event with the 200-yard medley relay victory, the Billikens went on to win all of the remaining three relays: the 800-yard freestyle, the 400-yard medley and the 400-yard freestyle. By the end of the meet, the women were firmly in control, locking down a dominant performance at the Wash U Invitational. They got help from the divers as well. The duo of Courtney Lagestee and Christiana Eltiste finished in first and second, respectively, on the one-meter board. Lagastee’s score was the highest of the season for SLU. The women defeated two local universities, Washington University and Lindenwood University. The men’s side placed 5th out of 7. The men’s side has had an up and down season as a team, but have had storng individual performances. Senior Brian Brasser won the 100-yard backstroke by registering a time of 58.16, while freshman Zack Billingsley flew through the 50-yard freestyle in just 21.46. The men also won one relay event, opening the invitational with a 1:35.69 mark in the 200-yard medley relay. On the boards, Billly Hrabovsky scored a seasonhigh 472.10 off the three-meter. The men’s team finished in fifth place out of the eight schools competing. Stephen Hansen also performed well for the Bills finishing in third place in the Men’s 200-yard breaststroke. The women’s first-place finish was the first time this season that SLU had won an invitational outright. The women placed third at the IUPUI House of Champions Invitational in November, and the men placed second in that same event. The men and women will return to Indianapolis, Ind., for the IUPUI Quad this weekend, taking on Xavier, Western Illinois and IUPUI on Friday. On Saturday morning, they return to St. Louis for the Lindenwood Invitational. The teams continue to prepare for the all-important Atlantic 10 Championship, to be held in Buffalo, N.Y., Feb. 22-25.
Who to
FEAR Courtesy of Bleacher Report
The University of Iowa men’s basketball coach refused to apologize for an outburst he had during a game when the Hawkeyes lost 95-61, in which he slammed a folding chair to the ground in anger. Sources say that McCaffery will continue to slam chairs until people realize that Iowa has a basketball team.
Tu Holloway
Courtesy of Bleacher Report
The Billiken men’s basketball team will travel to Xavier on Wednesday, Jan. 25 to face the always-competitive Musketeers and their star point guard. Holloway is known for his quick crossover, his 3-point shot and his ability to help instigate an enormous brawl.
Advertisements from Student Development
10
Thursday, January 19, 2012
unewsonline.com
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS
WE ARE ALL BILLIKENS