Tried, True and Something New: Holidays and Traditions

November 5, 2018

Midterm Election Update p. 12 Chicago Traditions p. 24 International Holidays p. 30

Tried, True and Something New:

Holidays and Traditions p. 20-31

Socialism vs. Capitalism p. 32-33 Preaching vs. Teaching p. 34

Editorial Board Delainey Smith

Editor-in-Chief delaineysmith@stfrancis.edu Emily Plummer

Layout Artist emilyplummer@stfrancis.edu Katie Wozniak

Assistant Online & Print Editor katherinewozniak@stfrancis.edu Antonio Smithberg

UNIVERSITY Campus Calendar................................4 Student Spotlight................................5

NEWS

Campus News.....................................6 Joliet News..........................................8 World News.......................................10 Midterm Elections.............................12

FEATURE Anti-Holiday......................................22 Superstition Origins...........................23 Chicago Traditions.............................24 Holiday Airport Safety........................25 Day of The Dead................................26 First Thanksgiving..............................28 International Holidays.......................30

COMMENTARY

For Capitalism...................................32 For Socialism.....................................33 Preaching vs Teaching........................34 Voting 101........................................36 Friendsgiving.....................................37

ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS

WCSF Top 10....................................14 Worst Holiday Movies........................15 Holiday Happenings..........................16 Ask Ashley..........................................18 Bar Review.........................................19

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Sports Traditions...............................38 Holiday Games.................................40 Winter Sports....................................41 Sport’s Spotlight................................42

Sports Editor antoniosmithberg@stfrancis.edu Jalen Williams

Entertainment Editor jalenwilliams@stfrancis.edu Amber James

Feature Editor amberjames@stfrancis.edu Chandler Kowaliczko

PR Manager chandlerkowaliczko@stfrancis.edu Alex Guglielmucci

Promotions Manager alessandroguglielmucci@stfrancis. edu Blake Tomac

PR Specialist blaketomac@stfrancis.edu Angelica Bibian

Advertising Manager angelicabibian@stfrancis.edu Dr. Scott Marshall

Advisor smarshall@stfrancis.edu

Staff Writers Giovanni Alvarado Ian Bond Ashley Hare Sara Hill Richie Mroz Evelyn Odum Bennie Radford Lauren Wozniak

Hello all, thank you for picking up the latest edition of the USF Encounter.

With the holiday season approaching, my staff and I wanted to analyze and discuss our favorite holiday pastimes as well as, peer into new traditions we are unaccustomed to.

Within these pages we hope to shed light on the customs and traditions of unwonted holidays, such as Día de Los Muertos and bring a new perspective on traditional, American holidays such as Thanksgiving. Incorporated into the issue is also the latest campus and local news, the do’s and don’t of voting, an update on the upcoming Midterm Election and much more!

UNIVERSITY

Letter From the Editor

Want even more updates from the Encounter? Check out our website (usfencounter.stfrancis.edu), to stay up to date on the latest news, entertainments and more. We are constantly adding new articles every week!

Make sure to follow us on Facebook (USF Encounter), Instagram (usf_encounter) and Twitter (usf_encounter).

Interested in writing of us? For more information on becoming a member of our staff please contact me at delaineysmith@stfrancis.edu.

Without further ado, please enjoy Tried, True and Something New: Holidays and Traditions. Thanks for reading!

Delainey Smith Editor-in-Chief

As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom, and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion and peacemaking. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership.

Policies

From the top, left to right: Delainey Smith (Editor-in-Chief ), Emily Plummer (Layout Artist), Katie Wozniak (Assistant Editor), Antonio Smithberg (Sports Editor), Jalen Williams (Entertainment Editor), Amber James (Feature Editor), Chandler Kowaliczko (PR Manager), Alex Guglielmucci (Promotions Manager), Blake Tomac (PR Specialist), Angelica Bibian (Advertising Manager)

The Encounter is published by the students of the University of St. Francis, 500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois, 60435. The newspaper office is located in room S413C of Tower Hall. The Encounter phone number is 815.740.3816.

As a member of USF Campus Media, the Encounter strives to produce a publication that stresses quality writing and design.

By reporting on issues that may be sensitive in nature, the Encounter aims to educate, inform and persuade students on topics that affect their lives on and off campus.

Editorial pages provide Encounter staff with opportunities to express thoughtful views on controversial topics.

Letters to the Editor represent the opinion of the author and are not necessarily opinions of the Encounter Staff.

Publications of letters to the editor are subject to space availability and management discretion. Letters are also subject to editing.

Letters to the editor or any other submissions may be dropped off at the Encounter office or emailed to usfencounter@gmail.com.

The Encounter is printed by RICOH Services on the campus of the University of St. Francis.

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CAMPUS CALENDAR By: Emily Plummer Layout Artist

November 5

6

7

SGA Meeting, 8 p.m., San Damiano

Spectrum Meeting, 7 p.m., N216

Employee Benefit’s Fair, 10:30 a.m., San Damiano

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2

All Saints Day Mass, 3:30 p.m., Chapel Philosophy Club Trip, 5 p.m., Chicago

SAB Free Bowling, 9 p.m., Town and Country Lanes

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9 WITHDRAWL DEADLINE Fall Play, 7:30 p.m., Turk Theater

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“So, You Want To Be a Therapist?”, 3 p.m., N217

Scrap That Selfie, 11 a.m., President’s Room

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20

21

22

23

SGA Meeting, 8 p.m., San Damiano

Spectrum Meeting, 7 p.m., N216

EARLY 4 P.M. DISMISSAL FOR ALL MAIN CAMPUS CLASSES

NO CLASSES -MAIN CAMPUS CLOSED

NO CLASSES -MAIN CAMPUS CLOSED

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27

28

29

30

Business Alumni & Student Speed Networking Event, 6 p.m., San Damiano

Christmas at Motherhouse, 7:30 p.m., Chapel

SNA Meeting, 12:10 p.m., GAH 423

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16 Singing Saints Performance, 7:30 p.m., Auditorium

By: Evelyn Odum Staff Writer

SIRCHIMEZ

“I hope to impact people past the level of music, inspire people to do what they really want to do and not have to conform to what everyone says they have to do,” said Sirchimez, better known at USF as senior Josh Conteh.

UNIVERSITY

Student Spotlight:

The 21-year-old Digital Audio Recording Arts (DARA) student from London, England moved here in 2010 with his family. He described the move as a leap of faith. “If God can do that, then he can make anything happen,” he said in regards to his music career.

At eight years old, Sirchimez began to pursue the electric guitar. It all stemmed from hearing Eddie Van Halen’s solo in Michael Jackson’s song, “Beat It.” He now has been playing for 13 years and puts his own guitar riffs into his songs.

Sirchimez’s Single “Why”

Sirchimez’s father and brother are also in the music scene. In 2005, he recorded his first song with his dad in London. Last summer, he recorded a gospel album with his family called “Arrival” under the group name Jconik.

Photos courtesy of SoundCloud and Jack Murray

He released his first single in 2017, titled “Fly.” His other works include: “Light,” “Why,” “Gibberish” and more.

He has even produced his own full album called “Sirchimez.” In March, he released a duo with his 23-year-old brother, Jea Able.

The song has received a lot of attention and is titled “Woah.”

Pulling from his taste in Michael Jackson, pop and old school blues singers, Sirchimez’s style is a mix. “One day I’m rappin’, but the next day I’m making 80’s synth pop fusion,” he said. Besides having catchy beats, his lyrics go deeper than surface level delving into topics such as love, religion and life’s journey.

Christian, so another main theme in his music is God’s impact on his life. Sirchimez is in the DARA studio practically every day, mixing 24/7. His sessions often last from 9 p.m. until 3 a.m. He uses a Blackspade UM 25 mic and composes in ProTools.

Currently, he’s working on an EP that’s going to be primarily compromised of pop songs. You can check him out at sirchimez.com, Twitter or Instagram.

His music is available on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Soundcloud or YouTube.

For the moment, Sirchimez is focusing on producing more songs and building a fan base before he starts to perform gigs. Although it takes a lot of dedication, perseverance and hard-work, he aspires to own his own studio. “I love Sirchimez said his life has been a roller coaster, but that’s it,” he said, “I would much rather be where he draws inspiration for doing this than anything in life. I can’t complain.” his songs. He’s a strong

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Campus News By: Angelica Bibian Advertising Manager

Commuter Wednesday Since the beginning of this year, SGA came up with an idea to give out free food for students who are commuters.

SGA has changed Commuter Mondays to Commuter Wednesdays. Commuter Wednesdays will take place every other week at 11 a.m. in the Uno Lounge located in Tower. SGA will be providing the cost for the food. Any club can host Commuter Wednesdays, which can promote their club to get more commuter students involved on campus. Clubs can hand out pamphlets, play music and socialize to engage commuter students. A lot of commuters aren’t involved in clubs, so this gives a chance for students to consider different clubs on campus.

USF student Daniel McGee said, “I really like the idea of Commuter

Wednesday where we can get free food and find out more information about all the clubs. I really don’t know a lot

about the clubs here on campus.”

Taylor Street South Parking Now Open One of USF’s biggest problems for students is finding parking. USF has been trying to help students solve their

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November 5, 2018

parking problems. USF has transformed this new lot into the new resident lot.

Every lot is usually full by the early mornings. Adding this new parking lot will, in turn, help a lot of resident students. Resident Dallas Matlock said, “I love the expansion of the parking lot! I always find a parking spot since they opened this lot. I used to have to park in other lots on campus

because this lot was too full.” With more spaces available this will help students to not park in the neighborhood around USF. The old resident lot, Taylor Street North Lot, will be used for special event parking. The expansion of the lot has been very beneficial to our university and the parking lot isn’t as full as it used to be. This will give guests who are visiting USF for an event to have more parking spaces available to them instead of them trying to find parking at the Motherhouse Lot.

NEWS

Spirit of Christmas For the past 25 years USF’s radio station WCSF 88.7 FM has broadcasted Christmas music 24/7. The radio station changes from their regular programming to Christmas music starting on Thanksgiving Day through January 2. There will be over 4,000 songs being played such as classic, current hits and children Christmas songs throughout the weeks. Other Christmas music that will be played includes local choirs and bands. Don Burke, the producer of Spirit of Christmas said, “Thousands of listeners tune into the Spirit of Christmas each year.” Sophomore Angel

Diaz is excited to hear Christmas music being played and he will be tuning in on Thanksgiving Day with his family. You don’t need a radio to listen to Spirit of Christmas. You can listen to Spirit of Christmas online at listen.streamon.fm/wcsf. At selected times, listeners can call in and make a request. Spirit of Christmas has become a big tradition for the Will County area.

Get ready to tune in for Spirit of Christmas on Thanksgiving Day! WCSF is a non-profit educational radio station that is ran by the students at USF.

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Photos courtesy of Pintrest

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JOLIET NEWS By: Katie Wozniak Assistant Editor

DeWitt’s Finally Open The gourmet cookie shop located in downtown Joliet has finally arrived.

Resident Nick Morris has opened DeWitt’s Gourmet at 20 E. Cass St. According to a quote from the Herald News, Morris states, “I’ve been eating these cookies since I was a kid, so fast forward 37 years later,” Morris said. “I thought, ‘Other people should really experience what I’m experiencing.’ I love these cookies.”

Morris also explained that he wanted to give the shop a name that people would remember but also sounded upscale. This is due to the high quality of ingredients he makes his cookies with. He tells the Herald News, “DeWitt is my middle name, so I just took my middle name.

I thought it sounded kind of classy and upscale, and I combined it with ‘Gourmet,’ since I use premium ingredients.” Some of the premium ingredients included in his cookies are Madagascar bourbon vanilla extract and Amish butter. This will add a new flavor to the downtown area.

Morris describes his shop to have a warm, welcoming feel. The storefront is used for walk-ins and to-go orders, but there are a few stools near the window. His intention is to get a permit for outdoor seating.

you would like this delivered to USF while you are up late cramming for your next test, call them at 815-280-5280.

Looking at the menu, it is clear that chocolate chip cookies are Morris’ signature product. He does, however, sell milk, homemade ice cream and bite-size cookies called DeWittles. He would soon like to introduce fried cookie dough topped with powdered sugar and sea salt, cookie shakes and cookie cakes. He is quoted by the Herald News, saying, “I’m going to sell my dry mix in mason jars, so if people want to purchase those and take those home, they can make them at home as well.”

Another addition to their normal hours comes DeWitt’s Campus Delivery Service.

Monday through Thursday from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., DeWitt’s will be delivering their “Study Package.” This consists of 24 cookies and an 8-ounce milk for $11. If

Wall Collapses on Worker in Morris The Morris Fire Department and Ambulance district were called to a construction site at 11:24 a.m. for an accident involving one of its workers. At the 1900 block of Mountain Road in Morris, the 49-year-old victim became trapped by a collapsing wall of dirt in a sewer being dug. According to the Joliet Patch, “Witnesses said a construction crew was digging a sewer trench for a residential building, and a 49-year-old male employee was in the 7.5-foot-deep trench when a dirt

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wall collapsed. The impact pushed the employee into the opposite wall.”

Emergency personnel on the scene have said that the victim was conscious and responsive throughout the rescue. According to ABC 7 Chicago, The victim was airlifted to a hospital in “stable” condition at around 1:25 pm. He remains in a level 1 trauma center.

NEWS

Briggs Street Bridge Crumbling?

Numerous reports of crumbling asphalt and wood chips on the Briggs street bridge has resulted in the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to inspect the bridge.

They described the bridge’s condition as: “critical condition – may require closure.”

The bridge was built in 1965 and is currently being monitored by IDOT. According to an online article by the Herald News, the condition of the Briggs Street bridge was an issue in the city of Joliet’s decision this month to approve the takeover needed to build a Love’s Travel Center at the I-80 interchange.

Bob Okon writes, “Love’s expects to attract 600 trucks a day, many of which will cross the bridge, and the state a year ago put a weight limit on the bridge allowing semitrailers but not overweight trucks. Love’s hopes to open its truck stop sometime next year.”

soon as possible. We, and I’m sure is to be closed. Wilson stated, “A the state, too, get a lot of complaints two rating is classified as ‘critical,’ about it.” requiring IDOT to do more frequent inspections and/or make Rest assured, the bridge is still interim repairs to keep the bridge considered safe and operational. open.” Wilson also commented, “It According to IDOT bridge engineer does not mean the bridge is unsafe.”

Sarah Wilson in an email answering The Briggs street bridge is expected questions about the Briggs Street to recieve further repairs and bridge, the bridge has recieved a eventually closed sometime between two rating from IDOT. Bridge from 2019 and 2024. This means that IDOT receive a rating from one the anticipated Love’s Travel Center to nine, one meaning the bridge may open years before the bridge is replaced.

Motorists have expressed their grief in the wood supports holding up the bridge. In a recent online article by the Herald News, Jeff Ronaldson, director of transportation for Will County, said, “We’re hoping it gets repaired as

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OPEN 24/7 - FREE WIFI 10% OFF Purchase with USF ID

Photos courtesy of the Joliet Patch

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WORLD NEWS

By: Delainey Smith Editor-in-Chief

Donald Trump’s Plan for Birthright Citizenship In an interview released Tuesday, October 30, U.S. President Donald Trump made a legally unreliable promise in an interview, stating that he wanted to unilaterally end birthright citizenship, continuing his stringent immigration policy.

the world where a person comes in, has a baby and the baby is essentially a citizen of the United States for 85 years with all of those benefits.” He continued, “It’s ridiculous. It’s ridiculous. And it has to end.”

In an interview with Axios, an American news and information website founded in 2016, Trump declared he would end the right to citizenship for children of noncitizens and unauthorized immigrants. This vow openly defies the U.S. Constitution that was amended 150 years ago to include the words: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.”

Since the interview was released, many have come forward disputing the legality of Trump’s vow. According to www.

CNN.com, House Speaker Paul Ryan told a Kentucky radio station, “Well, you obviously cannot do that. You cannot end birthright citizenship with an executive order.” Ryan continued to discuss that it would be a “very, very lengthy” constitutional process.

The President didn’t provide any details of his plan, but according to www.CNN. com, Trump stated, “It’s in the process. It’ll happen.”

In the interview with Axios on HBO, Trump stated, “We’re the only country in

The interview is a part of “Axios on HBO,” a new four-part documentary series debuting on HBO this Sunday, according to the news site.

Syria War: Aid Fails to Reach Civilians in Desert BBC News reports that a convoy carrying urgently-needed aid for 50,000 civilians stranded on the Syria-Jordan border has been postponed by the U.N. for security reasons.

A delivery of 45 lorries were due to arrive for the first time since January at the Rukban camp on Saturday, October 28.

However, according to BBC News, “Syria’s army controls access to Rukban, which is near a U.S.-backed rebel base. Jordan is also blocking aid deliveries.”

The U.N. estimates that 80 percent of the people stranded at Rukban are women and children. They began arriving in the area in late 2015 after fleeing areas of Syria previously controlled by the militant group IS. Recently, reports of children dying at

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the camp due to poor sanitary conditions and lack of healthcare have been made.

According to U.N. Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mark Lowcock, “The U.N. is ready and willing to proceed with the

convoy immediately.” Lowcock continued, “The dire humanitarian situation cannot be allowed to continue.”

As of now there is no date set to deliver aid to Rukban.

According to a news report made by the World Health Organization (WHO), 93 percent, which is nearly two billion children, are subjected to breathing polluted air that is putting their health at serious risk.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, stated,

“Polluted air is poisoning millions of children and ruining their lives.”

The study shows that the problem is most severe in low and middle-income countries, primarily nations in Africa, Southeast Asia, the eastern Mediterranean and western Pacific.

The impacts of this pollution are having detrimental effects on children, such as poor cognitive ability, asthma, cancer and cardiovascular disease. In an interview with www.IFLScience. com, Dr. Maria Neira, director at the Department of Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health at WHO, stated, “Air Pollution is stunting our children’s brains, affecting their health in more

ways than we suspected. But there are many straight-forward ways to reduce emissions of dangerous pollutants.”

NEWS

TWO Billion Children Lacking Clean Air She continued, “WHO is supporting implementation of health-wise policy measures like accelerating the switch to clean cooking and heating fuels and technologies, promoting the use of cleaner transport, energy-efficient housing and urban planning. We are preparing the ground for low emission power generation, cleaner, safer industrial technologies and better municipal waste management.”

WHO wants to encourage individuals to spread awareness of how air pollution is having life-threatening impacts on children around the world every day.

Thank you to Ricoh and Sodexo Services for being great partners to work with! We appreciate you!

Photos courtesy of The Nation, www.reuters.com and www.thenational.ae

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Midterm Election

UPDATE By: Chandler Kowaliczko PR Manager

On November 6, 2018, registered voters across the country will head to the polls to vote for new Congress members. Midterm elections occur every four years in the U.S., halfway through the president’s four-year term in office.

However, despite having just as much political importance as presidential elections, Americans historically do not show up to the polls. Here are the basics of what make up midterm elections and why they are important.

Who Is Up For Election?

435 of the 435 seats in the United States House of Representatives are open. These members are only allowed to serve twoyear terms. Additionally, 35 of the 100 seats of the United States Senate open.

Senate members can only serve up to a six-year term.

What Is At Stake?

Republicans currently have control of the Senate and House, giving them an advantage going into the election. If Republicans remain in control, voters can expect many drastic changes to government policy. One of these changes may be budget cuts to services including Welfare, Food Stamps, or Social Security.

Another area Republicans have been eager to repeal is Obamacare. Also, expect a continued advocation for border protection in light of recent immigration concerns.

On the other hand, a Democrat win in the Senate and House could mean plans

“

for the preservation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

Also, there would consequently be no repeal of Obamacare for the foreseeable future.

In certain situations, both parties can be elected control over the Senate and House. This would run the risk of a government shutdown because rival parts of government would likely be unable to agree with each other on multiple issues.

Election Predictions Although there is no way to know for certain, predictions of election outcomes and voter turnout provide media outlets with a general consensus for what is to come. About 60 percent of Americans vote in presidential elections, whereas only 40 percent vote in midterm elections. Historically, voter turnouts are a large issue for Democrats. The majority of those who vote in midterm elections tend to be caucasian and typically older than in presidential elections, so low

voter turnout tends to favor Republicans.

In years past, midterm elections have not brought good news for current presidents or thier party. The political party that has control over the White House typically loses seats in this election. In 2010, Democrats lost more than 60 seats to Republicans.

If Democrats were to win control of the Senate and House, the worst case scenario for President Trump would be risk of impeachment. A lot of Democrats have expressed a desire to remove the president from office, and this election’s outcome would make that possible.

Be sure to fulfill your civic duty by voting in the midterm elections November 6, 2018. Molly Gunning, a USF student, mentioned how rewarding it is to use her political voice. She said, “It really is worth it to take the time out of your day to vote. It isn’t nearly as inconvenient as people make it out to be.”

It really is worth it to take the time out of your day to vote. It isn’t nearly as inconvenient as people make it out to be.”

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NEWS

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS

REDEMPTION GAME ROOM

Photos courtesy of the Joliet Patch

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Top 10 Artists 1. WILD NOTHING

Indigo

2.

ILLUMINATI HOTTIES Kiss Yr Frenemies

3.

HONNE

ING

TH WILD NO

Love Me / Love Me Not

4. BLOOD ORANGE

Negro Swan

5. BOYGENIUS boygenius

6. INTERPOL Marauder

7.

8.

9.

SKYLAR SPENCE Carousel [Single]

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NE

THE MOLOCHS

Flowers in the Spring

GRINGO STAR

Back to the City

10.

HON

ALLEN STONE

Brown Eyes Lover [Single]

November 5, 2018

INTERPOL

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1

By: Richie Mroz Staff Writer Every year, families gather around the television to watch their favorite holiday movies such as “A Christmas Story,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” or “It’s a Wonderful Life.” These are arguably some of the best holiday movies ever made. For every holiday movie phenomenon, however, there are also some holiday movie flops such as “A Christmas Story 2,” “Christmas with the Kranks” and “Kirk Cameron’s Saving Christmas.”

Everyone has their favorite holiday movies. The movies they watch and re-watch every year gets them into the holiday spirit, but perhaps there are some movies that everyone should ward off to avoid the desire to give coal as Christmas gifts.

Photos courtesy of WVXU, Chrsitmas Stock Photos, NPR and Women.com

CHRISTMAS WITH THE KRANKS

There are some holiday movies, however, that reach an overall consensus of being atrocious. “Christmas with the Kranks,” a story about a couple who wants to go to the Caribbean for Christmas but are harassed by their Christmas loving neighbors to stay and celebrate at home, received a Rotten Tomatoes score of five percent. Critics stated in a consensus that “A mirthless movie as fresh as last year’s fruit cake, Christmas with the Kranks is a coarse, garish comedy promiting conformity.”

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A CHRISTMAS STORY 2

Another terrible holiday movie which attempted to piggy back off of the 1983 classic, “A Christmas Story,” “A Christmas Story 2” received an overall underwhelming rating of 3/10 from critics and viewers. The 2012 sequel takes place five years after the original as we see Ralphie, a teenager now, wreck his dream car as soon as he gets it. A critic on IMDb.com stated, “It’s a

THE POLAR EXPRESS

Whether or not a holiday movie is fantastic or terrible is completely subjective based on the viewer. Sometimes, people will love movies that others hate. “The Polar Express,” a 2004 film about a young boy’s belief in Santa Claus, received an overall above average rating of 6/10 from most critics and viewers. On the contrary, University of St. Francis sophomore Brad Abderhalden stated, “My least favorite holiday movie is ‘The Polar Express.’

‘The Polar Express’ has a great story and had potential but they ruined it by making all of the child characters hideous.” USF sophomore Abbey Spesia, whe asked about horrible holiday movies, stated that she hates “A Charlie Brown Christmas” because, “The movie has no plot and is not entertaining.”

ENTERTAINMENT

Worst Holiday Movies

direct-to-video sequel of a famous well established film that was released 29 years after the original. If any of that sounds like a good idea I have a bridge to sell you.” There are also some holiday movies that have received some hilariously horrible feedback such as the 2010 version of “The Nutcracker” and Kirk Cameron’s “Saving Christmas” which both received a zero percent rating by critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

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WILL COUNTY By: Angelica Bibian Advertising Manager

Light Up The Holidays Fesitval and Parade Location/Time: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Downtown Joliet Price: FREE

NOV 23

Every year there is a big festival in downtown Joliet on the Friday after Thanksgiving that is presented by USF. It’s an all-day event that is free to the public. The day starts off at 10 a.m. downtown with different activities that are available all day. There will be a Fantastic Fun Fair in the Joliet Area Historical Museum’s auditorium. Other activities will take place at the Joliet Public Library, Gji’s Sweet Shoppe, Jitters Coffeehouse, Chicken-n-Spice, JJC City Center Campus and more. Then at 5:15 p.m., the Christmas tree lighting starts at the Van Buren Plaza. After that is the final event for the day which is the Light Up the Holidays Parade at 5:30 p.m.

Holiday Craft Show Location/Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Joliet Park District Price: $1

NOV 24

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This event is to support small businesses and help benefit the Sunshine and Rainbows Learning Center. It only cost $1 to get in but you can shop at different booths that will have tons of holiday crafts. You will need to bring cash to purchase the crafts. There will also be different holiday candles, jewelry, crochet, embroidery, floral arrangements and more for sale. All entrance fees will go to Sunshine and Rainbows Learning Center.

Santa 5k and 1-Mile Stroll

ENTERTAINMENT

Y A D I L HO S G N I N E P P A H Location/Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. 500 Speedway Blvd, Joliet, Ill. Price: $25 with Student ID

DEC 1

This is the second annual Santa 5K run where anybody can either run or even walk. The 5K is a fundraiser that benefits Racing Advocates for Community Enrichment (R.A.C.E), Chicagoland Speedway’s 501(c)3 charitable entity, the JTHS Alumni Association Scholarships and The Joliet Area Historical Museum. This event is presented by the JTHS Alumni Association and the Joliet Area Historical Museum. When you register before November 15, you will get a shirt! The goal is to dress up in holiday clothes or even try to look like Santa. At the end of the run, you may take pictures with Santa! Then there will be a fun post-race celebration! You can register on the Chicagoland Speedway website, www.chicagolandspeedway.com.

Winter Wonderland & Hope for the Holidays Location/Time: 6 - 9 p.m. Edward Hospital Athletic & Event Center in Romeoville Price: One non-perishable food item

DEC 7

The event starts at six where there will be fun crafts and moon jumps right before the local Romeoville Fire Department brings Santa out on a lighted decorated vehicle. The main event is to light up the tree outside of the Edward Hospital Athletic & Events Center. There will be hot chocolate and cookies during the tree lighting ceremony that is provided by the firefighters.

Photos courtesy of Pexels, The Joliet Patch and Bealstreet

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ASK AS Meeting A

By: Ashley Hare Staff Writer Well here I am, sitting at Chicago O’Hare International Airport about to hop on a flight to Dallas, Texas. This time I am traveling to see Austin Mahone. But once again, you are probably wondering who Austin Mahone is.

Austin Mahone is a San Antonio, Texas native singer and songwriter. Mahone gained popularity when his covers became very popular on YouTube. He is currently signed to his own label, AM Music LLC, Mr. 305 Inc., BMG and Universal Music Japan. In 2012, Mahone independently released his first single, “11:11” followed by his second worldwide single, “Say Somethin.” Mahone has even headlined his own sold-out tours, including MTV’s “Artist to Watch” Tour and a nationwide summer tour, following his debut on the road as an opener on Taylor Swift’s “Red” Tour in the summer of 2013.

The singer boasts several awards and honors, including an MTV VMA for Best New Artist and their “Artist to Watch” in 2013. Mahone has also won at the MTV EMA’s, iHeartRadio Music Awards, Radio Disney Music Awards, Teen Choice Awards and the Young Hollywood awards.

H LEY:

ustin Ma ho n

fortunately, the show was cut short due to unexpected inclement weather.

I was actually able to meet Austin at the show, the airport and coincidentally ran into him at Whataburger. Fun fact, I am very close with Austin and his family. In 2015, I took him to my high school prom. Before-

“Mahone’s current work “ForMe+You” finds the 20-year-old exploring a mature new direction with collaborations from Pitbull, Juicy J and 2 Chainz.”

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traveled to over five states to see him perform and have met some of my closest friends. It is such a privilege to know a celebrity as a normal person. Austin is considered family to me.

If you would like to learn more about Austin you can follow him on all social media including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc.

If you would like to hear and view more of my experiences with Austin, follow me on Instagram at Ashley.Hare and Twitter @TrustInAustin. Feel free to message me questions!

hand I had been an active fan, following him since 2012. So, whenever I see Austin perform, he always adds my name to the guest list to see him. I am so thankful and grateful for finding Austin in 2012. Since then, I have

Mahone’s current work “ForMe+You” finds the 20-year-old exploring a mature new direction with collaborations from Pitbull, Juicy J and 2 Chainz. The Pitbull-assisted lead single, “Lady” made its worldwide debut on New Year’s Eve and since then has already become Austin’s highest streamed track on Spotify.

Currently, Austin is in the studio, recording with plans to release his first full-length studio album by the end of the year.

Mahone was chosen to headline the Texas State Fair on Sunday, October 8. The concert included hits such as “MMM Yeah,” “Dirty Work,” “Say Hi” and many others. Un-

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Left, Ashley pictured with Austin Mahone in 2012 and 2018. Right, Ashley with Austin Mahone in Dallas Fort Worth International airport in 2018.

ENTERTAINMENT

BAR REVIEW:

Longshots Sports Bar & Grill By: Jalen Williams Entertainment Editor

After a few minutes, I decided to order mozzarella sticks. I walked back up to the bar to place my food order.

Again, they took my order rather quickly for the amount of people standing at the bar. One thing that I thought was a little odd was that the bartender didn’t ask me where I was sitting. I went back to my table and finished my beer. Before I knew it, I was startled by the waitress who held my mozzarella sticks. I was surprised at how fast they came out. I ordered another beer, and dove in; the mozzarella sticks were crispy and cheesy, pairing perfectly with the beer.

A

re you looking for a sports bar with an inviting atmosphere, pool tables and great food and drinks? If so, look no further than a few blocks down Jefferson Street! Longshots Sports Bar & Grill is a great place to play a game of pool with some friends, have a drink after a long day or to watch some sports.

Having just turned 21 a little over a month ago, I have limited experience with bars. However, after a long day at work I decided to have a night out.

When I pulled up toLongshots, I was immediately intimidated by the overflowing parking lot. It took me a few minutes to find a spot and when I walked in, I found out Photo courtesy of Pexels and Ashley Hare

why the parking lot was full; I hadn’t realized this was the night of the UFC fight. The bar was packed, almost every table was full and the bar was flooded with people. Even though there were a ton of people there, the bartender took my order rather quickly and before I knew it, an Angry Orchard was in my hand. To my delight, they had the beer on draft. It was clean, refreshing and tasted like I just took a bite of a green apple. It was perfect!

My next step was finding somewhere to sit, which was a pretty daunting task. I made my way through the packed bar and found a spot near the pool tables to watch the fight.

Following dinner, I decided to try a new mixed drink. I approached the bar and seeing the bartender making three Moscow Mules, I decided to order one as well. As I walked back to my table with my shiny, copper cup, I noticed the presentation was nice; the lime wedge on the side was the perfect garnish for the vodka-based cocktail.

The drink tasted so-so. However, after a few sips, the hints of ginger beer and lime juice started to really engulf my taste buds. Overall, I thought it was good, although I may not order another one and just stick to my Captain and Coke.

Overall, my visit to Longshots was memorable. I will definitely return. If you’re looking for a great new bar to visit, give this place a try and remember, always drink responsibly!

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FEATURE

Tried, True and Something New: Holidays and Traditions The holiday season is a favorite to many, however, the traditions practiced in the United States are just a few of the celebrations observed worldwide. In this section, we explore holidays and traditions you have never heard of, while learning more about some you may celebrate and practice every year.

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The

By: Delainey Smith Editor-in-Chief

ANTI-Holidays As soon as the first, crisp wind gushes through the air and the word “pumpkin” lingers off someone’s lips, it’s over. It is officially the holiday season. To many, this is the most magical time of the year.

All of the traditions and warm, gooey feelings seem to engulf the soul of every human.

Well, not everyone. While the holidays may be “the most wonderful time of the year,” other people despise the season and its traditions, family obligations and expenses that come with it.

As the holiday season begins, so does the decorating, music, cooking, donating and volunteering. All for what? Everyone just spends more money on things they don’t really need and pretends like they weren’t miserable, selfish beings the other ten months of the year. Despite popular belief, you can’t put “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer” on repeat and give $5 to a homeless man and expect all of your guilt and problems to go away.

Along with holiday traditions comes the agonizing family obligations. Family gatherings can be a time filled with utter joy but they can also be filled with hate, resentment or overall awkwardness. Not everybody jives with their blood relatives.

Some even create their own “family” with their friends, according to www.time. com., When the holidays come

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around, you are forced to be in the same room with people who have known you your whole life but actually know little to nothing about you.

“I always dreaded the holidays. I was never close with my family,” stated USF Alumnus and Joliet local, Corey Gualandi. He continued, “We never had any traditions or warm, fuzzy Hallmark moments gathered around a tree.

The holidays are just another day to me.”

This message isn’t supposed to step on any religion’s toes or deter anyone from their holiday plans – you are free to observe or celebrate; but, this message is to remind everyone that maybe they’re looking through a pair of rose-colored glasses when they think of the holidays as the most wonderful time of the year.

“Despite popular belief, you can’t put

‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ on repeat and give $5 to a homeless man and expect all of your guilt and problems to go away.”

Dr. Carol Bernstein, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at NYU School of Medicine, believes it’s okay to not go home for the holidays, stating, “Each person should try to be more open to ways of spending the holidays, one being not even going with their families if the end result is going to be more painful and destructive.”

Another dreadful holiday aspect is the cost.

Every year, Black Friday shopping starts earlier and the holidays are revolving around consumerism. According to www.investopedia.com in 2016, the “average American spent $935.58 on holiday gifts.” This figure does not even include the money spent on food, travel and decorations.

University of St. Francis senior, Rachel McMurray shared, “I love the holidays. I’m the typical person who believes that it’s the time of the year that brings people together for the most amazing reasons. However, my bank account just doesn’t feel the same way.”

According to www.wmbfnews.com, if you’re going to buy Christmas gifts, it is now the time to start budgeting.

As for me, sure, I’ll buy my mother a nice gift for Christmas. But, for the most part, I’ll be responding with, “I don’t participate in pagan rituals” (a guarantee conversation-stopper) and celebrating the “Anti-Holidays” this season.

FEATURE

THE ORIGIN OF SUPERSTITIONS By: Amber James Feature Editor

Some superstitions are so ingrained in modern societies that everyone, from the general population to scientists, succumb to them.

More than 50 percent of the country, as per a recent Gallup poll, consider themselves superstitious. What is the real reason why we don’t walk under ladders? Why do we “knock on wood?” Are black cats as dangerous as they seem? Research shows there is

more to these superstitions than what meets the eye. Once a superstition gets planted into a person’s mind, they collect evidence to prove the belief to be true. One may carry the belief in their psyche all their life.

So sure, go ahead and avoid ladders, black cats and knock on wood. We won’t stop you (and neither will your psyche.)

WALKING UNDER A LADDER This superstition, according to www. livescience.com, originates from 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. A ladder, as most of us know, creates a triangle when it is leaning against a wall. Egyptians regarded this shape as sacred (take their pyramids, for example.)

According to the source, “To them, triangles represented the trinity of the gods, and to pass through a triangle was to desecrate them. Because a ladder had rested against the crucifix, it became a symbol of wickedness, betrayal, and death.” In short, walking under a ladder meant misfortune and bad

luck. In England in the 1600’s, criminals were even forced to walk under a ladder on their way to the gallows, according to livescience.com. “Not only is walking under ladders dangerous, but I definitely believe it’s bad luck,” says Bennie Radford, junior at the University of St. Francis. “I have only done it once or twice, but whenever I do, I feel like my whole day is ruined. We may not even know the reasons behind them, but these kinds of superstitions can really mess up your entire day. It’s crazy how influential superstitions can be.”

similar belief. They thought that black cats were companions of witches and having one cross your path was an “indication of bad luck, a sign that the devil was watching you.” Marissa Cauley, student at the University of St. Francis, has recently encountered a black cat herself. “I was walking to my car to go to Walmart, and all of the sudden a black cat ran out from behind a bush by the Pat Sullivan Center. It crossed right in front of me, and I froze. I was on edge for a while since I was nervous bad

things would start happening to me. I felt like I was being watched a little bit. I even reconsidered going to the store.”

BLACK CATS According to www.psychiclibrary.com, the ancient Egyptians admired and respected all cats, black and otherwise. This led to the belief that a black cat crossing your path brings good luck. According to the source, their positive reputation is recorded in the early seventeenth century in England, thanks to King Charles I. The king kept a black cat as a pet. However, upon its death, people believed that the good luck was gone after the king was arrested the very next day. Many other parts of Europe held a

KNOCK ON WOOD According to www.history.com, there are two reasons people knock on wood. It is either to bring themselves good fortune or ward off bad luck. One common explanation of this superstition traces the phenomenon to ancient pagan cultures such as the Celts, who believed that spirits and gods resided in trees. The source states, “Knocking on Photos courtesy of 2ndRunTv, Shutter Photostock and NPR

tree trunks may have served to rouse the spirits and call on their protection, but it could have also been a way of showing gratitude for a stroke of good luck.” Next time you knock on wood, think of why you’re doing it: to ward off bad luck or bring good fortune?

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CHICAGO Traditions By: Lauren Wozniak Staff Writer

Chicago is full of unique experiences and events, especially around the holiday season.

During the year, you can visit Chicago’s wide array of museums, five-star restaurants and see the beauty of the landscape and architecture. Around the holiday season, the city is flooded with civilians and tourists looking for some fun activities to do to celebrate the season. In Chicago, there are a multitude of things to do to have fun for the holidays.

Here are just a few of the many events that take place throughout Chicago: Christkindlmarket: This German outdoor market has become a classic Chicago holiday attraction. Serving German foods, hosting a variety of vendors and providing entertainment, the market attracts locals and tourists alike. According to www.christkindlmarket. com, the event takes place from November 16 to December 24. This is a great way to spend time with those you love and even grab their holiday gift while walking around!

“Chicago is full of unique experiences and events, especially around the holidays”

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Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: This holiday celebration takes place November 16 and 17 along Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. According to www.themagnificentmile.com, events include family-friendly activities, music performances, treat samples from downtown shops and visits with Santa Claus. The final event of the weekend is the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival tree-lighting parade. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will lead the procession as they light one million lights down Michigan Avenue! Right after the parade, the night ends with a firework show over the Chicago River. This weekend of fun is a way many families in Chicago begin their holiday season.

The Museum of Science and Industry Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light: Beginning in 1942, according to www.msichicago.com, the annual showcase has gone from a single tree to more than 50 displays of Christmas trees and other holiday traditions around the world. Most of the trees represent a different country and the traditions they participate in during the holiday season.

The center of the display is a four-story tall Christmas tree! The display is put up on November 15 and stays up through January 6.

This showcase, along with the other exhibits throughout the museum, is worth a visit to have some fun and escape the cold outdoors.

Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink: The ice rink starts its season on November 16 and will remain open throughout the entire winter season, closing on March 10. According to www.cityofchicago.org, the ice rink is free for public use. The only cost would be to rent ice skates, if necessary. This is a simple but fun holiday tradition you can do with friends, family or a significant other!

These are just a few of the many opportunities available in Chicago throughout the holiday season. Many events vary in length of availability, price (if any), range of activities to do and more. Regardless of what traditions you participate in at home, Chicago is a great city to go to when you want to experience a different version of something familiar or something new altogether.

Make sure to consider these events the next time you plan a trip to Chicago during the holiday season!

Holiday Airport Safety

By: Sara Hill Staff Writer

The holidays are a great time of year where many families are able to travel and visit relatives that they would not normally see. It is the season of joy and being able to spend time with your loved ones. When it comes to travel, however, it can be extremely stressful and can take a toll on your holiday spirit. Here are some important airport safety tips and tricks to help ease your stress this holiday season.

Once you are able to get through the torture of airport security and have boarded your plane, www.flyvps.com says to make sure to pay attention to your flight attendants to know exactly how to follow airplane safety just in case of an emergency. “Unless you fly very, very frequently, thenpre-flight safety instructions are not a time to scroll through Twitter or begin your in-flight video binging.

Flight attendants are trained to protect passengers but they can’t do it without your help.” Even if you are a frequent traveler, it doesn’t hurt to refresh your knowledge of what exactly to do when it comes to an emergency. You never know when something could come in handy and save your life.

main things I’d say is to make sure you know all the rules and regulations on what you can bring onto the plane so you can pack accordingly,” says junior Tay Norwood, “and also to get to the airport at least two to three hours before your flight.” Planning your trip will matter especially when you take into consideration whether you decided to go through Midway or O’Hare airport. Depending on what time of the day you are traveling, traffic might be more congested going to Midway than O’Hare, or vice-versa.

Planning ahead of time can help you avoid the traffic jams and get to the airport with enough time to spare.

Knowing exactly what you can pack in your carry-on can help with smoothly passing through security. Another tip for going through security with no hassle is choosing the right attire for when you travel. According to www. travelchannel.com, “The security line isn’t a Milan catwalk - wear slip-on shoes if possible and don’t forget your The biggest thing that can help ease socks! Also remove or pack all jewelry, your stress while traveling during the holidays is doing your research before belts, hats, jackets, keys and any items - even paper tickets and money - from the big day. Looking up all the rules your pockets as these can inhibit the and regulations and double checking your departure time will help you plan walk-through scanner image.” If you are an avid traveler, then you are able and prepare accordingly. “The to apply to be a member and qualify

Photos courtesy of Pexels, PNG Library, Yopriceville and mbtskoudsalg.com

FEATURE

for the TSA Precheck. As stated on www.tsa.gov, “It’s quick and easy security screening for travelers we know more about - and have earned the esteemed title of ‘Trusted Traveler.” If this is your first time traveling, however, the TSA website has more travel tips that will help security seem like a breeze.

Whether it’s making sure that you’re wearing slip on shoes to breeze through security, detailing your action plan for getting to the airport or signing off of Facebook for the brief safety demonstration from your flight attendants, it’s the little things that can make your holiday travel a lot less stressful than it may seem.

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Día de Los Muertos Every year on November 2, the Day of the Dead, or as it is known in Spanish, “El Día De Los Muertos,” is proudly celebrated in Mexico and all over the world.

Celebrating the Day of the Dead has a long history in Mexican tradition dating back to the Aztec and Mayan empires according to www.mysanantonio.com. It is used as a way to honor ancestors and remember those before us: a celebration of life. Both adults and children gather happily on this day and become united as a family to enjoy a warm gathering and dinner.

In Mexico, it is a tradition to visit the gravesites of one’s dearly departed on the Day of the Dead.

Unlike in the United States where graveyards are commonly privately owned and maintained, the graveyards in Mexico are often publicly owned or managed by the local churches of the town. Due to having this responsibility, it is solely up to the families of the deceased and other fellow community members to maintain and decorate the graves. During this celebration families often will go to visit the gravesites early to clean out any debris or garbage that may linger.

This can also include the pulling out of many weeds and shrubs covering or disturbing the grave. After the cleansing process, marigold flowers, candles and the deceased person’s favorite food is decorated and beautifully displayed. The

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families then proceed singing fun folk songs with the guitar, eat and tell their favorite stories of their departed loved ones.

All kinds of people come to honor this day by making their own “ofrendas” or “altars” at home. Altars, similar to the cleansing process of a gravesite, are usually decorated with an adornment of flowers (usually marigolds), candles and incense, “Pan de Muerto” or “Bread of the Dead,” ceramic skulls and beautifully dressed skeleton figures. According to www. brightonmuseums.org, salt is considered to be the “spice of life” and is one of the staples often left at the altar. Most importantly, however, families place their lost, loved ones’ favorite foods next to their pictures. Drinks are also placed to help quench the thirst of the dead after their long journey back home.

Monarch butterflies hold a significant meaning in the celebrations that occur during the Day of the Dead.

“Día de Los Muertos is a beautiful Mexican tradition in honor of our deceased loved ones”

FEATURE

Day of the Dead

By: Giovanni Alvarado Staff Writer

loved ones. Because Catholicism is so strong in the Mexican culture, we believe that their spirits are in heaven and on this day, they return to provide guidance and advice to their relatives still on earth. To do this, we set up an altar and pray “novenario,” which means to pray the rosary once a day for nine days leading up to November 2.”

Cleavon Bailey, a junior at the University of St. Francis, also shared his thoughts, saying, “The Mexican Day of the Dead tradition is enriched with diversity. The overall emotion and excitement that the tradition brings are so different than what the American traditions we commonly celebrate. It’s about honoring your ancestors, knowing that they are here with you. In my eyes, that is the most exciting gift that the culture brings.”

Celebrating the Day of the Dead is truly an experience you’ll never forget. It is a time to remember those before us and to never forget them when they were once with us on this earth. It is a time when our loved ones come back to greet us and guide us to the right path of life, and most of all, it helps us remember that we are always loved even beyond the grave.

According to www.smithsonianinsider. com, “Monarch butterflies play a role in Día de los Muertos because they are believed to hold the spirits of the departed. This belief stems from the fact that the first monarchs arrive in Mexico for the winter each fall on

Photos courtesy of YouTube

November 1, which coincides with Día de los Muertos.”

Yareley Gonzalez, a senior at the University of St. Francis said, “Día de Los Muertos is a beautiful Mexican tradition in honor of our deceased

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The First Thanksgiving

By: Jalen Williams Entertaiment Editor For many people, Thanksgiving is about seeing family, eating wonderful food and being thankful for all that we have. While we honor this day by being thankful, that is not how this holiday began. The First Thanksgiving didn’t start out as a celebration of being together. Over the years, it has been twisted into a white-washing of a pivotal moment in Native American history.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with the Thanksgiving holiday, according to www.nationalgeographic. com, the first Thanksgiving started with the Wampanoag tribe that inhabited the southeastern parts of Massachusetts and eastern parts of Rhode Island. These natives have lived on the land for over 12,000 years and were quite familiar with the land they inhabited. In 1620, a group of

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people known as the Pilgrims wanted to leave the Church of England behind in Europe to discover a better way of life. These people then took a ship named the Mayflower across the Atlantic Ocean and, due to inclement weather conditions, detoured and took up a part in what is now called Cape Cod. The ship had 101 men, women and children on board and took 66 days to reach land. Winter was approaching, and the new settlers weren’t accustomed to growing crops and such in a new environment. One day Samoset, a leader of the Abenaki, and Tisquantum (better known as Squanto) visited the settlers. Squanto was a Wampanoag who had experience with other settlers and he knew English. Squanto helped the settlers grow corn and use fish to fertilize their fields. After several meetings, a formal agreement was made between the

settlers and the native people and they joined together to protect each other from other tribes in March of 1621.

One day that fall, four settlers were sent to hunt for food for a harvest celebration. The Wampanoag heard gunshots and alerted their leader, Massasoit, who thought the English might be preparing for war. Massasoit, according to www. historyofmassachusetts.org, visited the English settlement with 90 of his men to see if the war rumor was true. Soon after their visit, the Native Americans realized that the English were only hunting for the harvest celebration.

Massasoit sent some of his own men to hunt deer for the feast and for three days, the English and native men, women and children ate together. The meal consisted of deer, corn, shellfish and roasted meat, far from today’s

Many of you have learned about this story in your history classes so you might be wondering: why do we repeat this part of history? Well, the reason for that is because sometimes history isn’t as clear as we think it is and events, especially ones that happened far before us, can easily be skewed, wrong or just downright rewritten. Dr. Cathleen Schultz, a history professor at the University of St. Francis, commented that the story of Thanksgiving is backwards.

“The first Thanksgiving is often depicted in a very Euro-centric way.

It’s presented as a hospitable gesture extended from the Pilgrims to the Indians. It was actually the other way

Photos courtesy of Pexels

FEATURE

Although prayers and thanks were probably offered at the 1621 harvest gathering, the first recorded religious Thanksgiving Day in Plymouth happened two years later in 1623.

On this occasion, the colonists gave thanks to God for rain after a twomonth drought.

around. All the foods we associate with Thanksgiving such as corn, sweet potatoes, turkey, etc. were Indian foods. When the Pilgrims arrived in Massachusetts in 1620, they wouldn’t

“The First Thanksgiving started out as a celebration of being able to work together to survive, but the facts have been muddied by the white-washing of history.” have survived the first (or second) winter without the help of the Indians.”

Artwork of the first Thanksgiving and Native Americans also depicts the reversal of history.

Native Americans are often depicted as being savage beasts, whereas the Pilgrims are kind and innocent.

The peace and prosperity were short lived though. According to www. time.com, there was a plague from 1630 until about 1642

which cut the native population to less than half. Various diseases like smallpox that the Natives had never experienced before were killing them at an alarming rate. War also broke out, with many conflicts later down the road such as the American Indian wars that lasted for quite some time.

The idea of having a day to celebrate all of the things you have and to cherish them sounds like a great idea. Sometimes, you just need to take a step back and look at all you have to be thankful for. The First Thanksgiving started out as a celebration of being able to work together to survive, but the facts have been muddied by the white-washing of history. In the 400 years since the holiday was erected, its meaning has changed for many people as well as the traditions. The one thing you can’t change, though, is history. No matter how hard you try.

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International Holidays With USF Students By: Chandler Kowaliczko PR Manager Not only is the USF community proud of America’s holiday traditions, but it also embraces those celebrations native to our international student’s home countries.

The International Experience Here at the University of St. Francis, we pride ourselves on the diversity of our students as well as fostering a community who welcomes all. Because of this, students from across the globe flock to the university to attend classes and experience all that USF and the Chicagoland area have to offer.

Since this university is a melting pot of countless lifestyles and nationalities, the holiday season is an excellent time to showcase just how USF’s international students not only partake in American holiday traditions but practice those native to their home country as well.

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FEATURE

Germany

China

England

One of the many countries represented here at the university is Germany. Merle Schlaeger, a USF student, mentioned how she spends her holiday season away from home.

She said, “There are a lot of similarities in how the two countries spend the holiday season. For example, my family and I use advent calendars and celebrate St. Nicholas Day with each other. However, one major difference in how we celebrate Christmas is that most of the festivities take place on the 24th rather than the 25th.”

Another country many USF students are originally from is China.

Although a lot of people native to China do not celebrate the holidays as we do in America, New Year’s Day and the Chinese New Year are heavily anticipated events throughout the holiday season. One international student said, “I am not able to go home for the Chinese New Year, but I do still celebrate just as much here in Chicago. Surprisingly, there is just as much celebration here as back home.”

Although many holiday traditions are the same in America as they are across the pond, even our international students from England still find ways to partake in English holiday festivities that are not often celebrated here. In recent years, Black Friday has become a newfound American tradition for finding the best shopping deals the day after Thanksgiving. While this is unique to only the United States, Boxing Day in England is strikingly similar to this American tradition. Boxing Day takes place December 26, the day after Christmas and shoppers flood the high street to find discounted prices on items that did not sell in anticipation for Christmas.

One international student added, “I didn’t even know what Black Friday was before I came to the U.S. I’ve noticed that, compared to my home country, Americans love to shop.

They’re obsessed with getting the best deal they can, which is something I was definitely not used to.”

As many may know, the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree originated in Germany, and was later brought of the United States some time later in the 1800’s. The same can be said about St. Nicholas day, which originated in Europe as an occasion for children to receive gifts. Other holidays celebrated in Germany include Oktoberfest, Day of Prayer and Repentance on November 19 and St. Thomas Day on December 21.

Fortunately, being so close to the city of Chicago has made it a lot easier for USF’s international students to remain connected with their cultures and experience a home away from home. Neighborhoods, organizations, societies and museums within Chicago all aid in these students being able to take part in traditions that they would not have the opportunity to celebrate otherwise.

The 2014 Chinese New Year celebration in Santa Ana Calif.

Photos courtesy of Pexels, Brittanica and Redtri

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CAPITALISM By: Antonio Smithberg Sports Editor During the 2016 Presidential Primaries, Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders became a strong advocate for a social economic system known as socialism. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, socialism is defined as a political and economic theory of social organization that advocates that the means of production, distribution and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole. With his advocacy for socialism becoming a large part of his political platform, Sanders brought to the forefront a discussion of whether or not a Socialist economy would function better than a Capital-

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ist free market economy. While there is much debate over which is superior, here is why a Capitalist economy works better.

In addition to ensuring that products remain economic in cost, capitalism allows for the intrinsic innovation of products and services. With the ever-growing world of technology, living in a capitalistic society allows for constant innovations in production means as well as growth in any industry small or large.

Even technological pioneer, Steve Jobs, saw it that way when he said, “You can’t just ask customers what they want and then try to give that to them. By the time you get it built, they’ll want something new.”

Through efficiency and innovation, capitalism gives any person or business, large or small, a fighting chance to succeed.

Characteristics of Capitalism Let’s start at the beginning with what exactly capitalism is and what some if its characteristics are. Capitalism is defined as an economic and political system in which a country’s trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit, rather than by the state. Often it is assumed that private ownership is not a good thing and can lead to corruption, however when distributed properly, a corporation can thrive in a capitalistic economy. According to U.S. Economy expert Kimberly Amadeo, capitalistic ownership means two things. One, the owners control the factors of production. Two, they create their income from ownership.

That means that they have the ability to operate their company’s efficiently to maximize profit.

Factors and Advantages of Capitalism Capitalism requires a free market economy to succeed, thus allowing businesses to create a supply and demand for their products or services. With the presence of supply and demand comes competition.

According to the economic website, The Balance, when businesses become competitive in trying to create the best product, it allows for equalization of pricing and efficiency of production. Prices are kept low by competition among businesses. Businesses provide the customers with the products or services they want and in turn the customer pays that price.

Characteristics of Socialism In theory, socialism is a utopian ideology, and in practice, attempts at socialism have ended in failure due to a combination of factors that are not limited to shortsightedness in the ideology. For examples, the Paris Commune was established in the wake of the Franco-Prussian War as an attempt at socialism but suppressed by the French Republic after two months in power. Despite its initial failures, the ever-increasing developments make the possibility of socialism more realistic, especially should technology fail to make more jobs than it makes obsolete.

Factors and Advantages of Socialism Socialism is a complicated and controversial ideology. In its more orthodox forms, socialism calls for a collective community that controls and regulates the means and distribution of production according to Assistant Professor of Political Science Julie Victa. Beyond this, socialism has an ideologically diverse set of ideas as different Socialists will give different answers on how to achieve socialism, the role of the state, if any, in a Socialist society, and how work will be compensated should money remain in use.

After the Franco-Prussian War, society was left to find effective ways to manage the inevitable: income inequality. While income inequality is not evil per se, too much of it can have catastrophic results. Thus far, the most favorable solution to income inequality is social democracy.

Contrary to popular belief, social democracy is technically not socialism because it does not call for transfer of the means of production to the collective and it seeks to work within the confines of capitalism. In American political discourse however, social democracy, which Senator Bernie Sanders mischaracterizes as “democratic socialism,� has become synonymous with socialism. This is in large part thanks to movements advocating for policies like unions and unemployment benefits were socialists according to Professor Julie Victa.

Since then, the welfare state has become an integral part of western politics. The main stream political debate has since become to what extent should the government be involved in fighting income inequality. Despite campaigning on repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act, commonly called Obamacare; the Republican Party has yet to do so since Donald Trump became

Photos courtesy of VideoBlocks, Philosphical Disquisitions and StickPNG

President.

Albeit Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has recently implied Republicans will try and cut entitlements, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid; along with another attempt at repealing Obamacare.

Even then, however, many Republicans still endorse some aspects of Obamacare like preexisting conditions.

COMMENTARY

By: Ian Bond Staff Writer

That said, the United States has a much higher level of income inequality compared to the more welfare friendly EU, the most popular example being the Nordic Model of using the free market and high taxes to fund a giant welfare state. According to the 2018 World Poverty Report, the share of income for the top one percent in the United States has been steadily increasing since 1980 and has long surpassed that of the bottom fifty percent. In Europe meanwhile, the share of the one percent has hardly grown since 1980 while the bottom fifty percent retain twenty-two

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PREACHING vs. you will meet. I’m an athlete, I join clubs and I have a job.

My decision to come to St. Francis wasn’t based around the school’s religious affiliation. Honestly, that was the last thing on my mind, all I could think about was “how in the world am I going to afford this?” Anyone here knows that USF is willing to help their students the best they can financially and for me that was what sold me on the school. It wasn’t until I was a student here that I realized how deeply rooted in religion USF was.

Disclaimer: Our staff writer has chosen to remain anonymous for this article in order to honestly and completely tell their story.

By: Anonymous Staff Writer For many people, their decision to come to the University St. Francis had a lot to do with location and the Cathedral Area. A small University attracting local students looking for a less expensive education within a reasonable distance.

Or maybe it’s because of its religious affiliation, with incentives such as religious scholarships? With many local students having attended a Catholic high school within the area, it just makes sense, right?

Hi there, I am a current St. Francis student and I am an atheist.

To provide context, I grew up in a Protestant church most of my life. This was mostly to appease my mom and her new-found sense of spirituality. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I had fully taken my loss

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of faith seriously. I was never a devout Christian, but the thought that there is no great beyond waiting for me after this life began to cross my mind. To some people it may seem like I am a complete pessimist, when, in reality, I have a very chipper outlook but solely on the life that I currently live.

Don’t get me wrong, just because the USF population has many Catholics, it has no effect on the way people treat me.

I’ve run into the same issues with friends and family because of my faith. I still remember the look on my mom’s face when I told her I was an Atheist; her only response being “Please, I just want you to be saved.” It shouldn’t have come as a shock to me when I took a course here that shed light on my faith and caused me to butt heads with my professor.

Maybe it was growing up in a more “liberal” church, but conservative Catholic views on homosexuality, women’s health and other religions have always gotten under my skin. So, naturally, having Being an Atheist doesn’t mean I hate to sit in a course with a professor who those who believe in a god, or that I speaks freely about the immorality of gay worship the devil, I just choose to not marriage and the horrors of abortion as believe in anything at all. For me this revelation was one of my most eye-open- though they were fact, truly tested my own morals and patience. Constantly siting experiences. The way I see it, every ting through lectures that veered back to day that I have is a gift and one day that gift will be gone. No salvation and second my professor’s own beliefs, even though they held no value to my understanding chances. I don’t let hardships squander of the course was not something I signed my opportunities, this is the only life I have and I have full control of my future, up for. so I must seize that. To better explain myself, I’m just like every other classmate

I am normally very open to discussing controversial topics with people, especially when we are both so passionate about what we believe in. Clearly, we both have valid reasons for these beliefs, so let’s discuss them. Open my eyes to why you think the way you do, let’s pick each other’s brains and see what we can learn. Honest intellectual conversations are so valuable in gaining a well-rounded perspective. Trying to have a conversation with my professor went nothing like this. It went from “I don’t agree with you talking about your opinions like they are facts” to “this is a Catholic institution, I can talk about this how I choose.” And boy wasn’t that a slap in the face.

Sitting in a classroom for hours feeling like I am being lectured in church had only affirmed my identity as an Atheist even more. At the University of St. Francis every student must fulfill a total of six credits taking Theology courses. An overwhelming percentage of these classes are strictly based around

Christian faiths while religious studies would analyze different religions all around the world. Wouldn’t this solve the issue of teaching versus preaching?

Wouldn’t this help give a less biases view of religion? Yes and no.

By offering up a broader range of courses at USF, it may allow students to learn about a religion they have never heard of. After all, isn’t that the whole point of higher education, to expand your horizons and learn something new? The downfall of this at a Catholic institution is that the information will always be biased. Having someone with a Theology degree teach a world religions course will always be in favor of Catholicism and lack the depth into other faiths.

“Constantly sitting through lectures that veered back to my professor’s own beliefs, even though they held no value to my understanding of the course was not something I signed up for.”

Catholicism, an intimidating fact for someone who is a non-believer. So, why not a requirement for “religious studies” classes instead? Theology focuses on

Photos courtesy of Pexels

In higher education, especially those rooted in some form of faith, there is a fine line between preaching and teaching. At a university, the intention

COMMENTARY

TEACHING:

is to learn and grow and to gain new prospective, many of which can be shown through faith. The Franciscan values of respect, integrity, compassion and service are values that every USF student will graduate with. These core values are bundled into everything that we will learn here and will carry with us the rest of our life. These Catholic values are something I will hold dear to me regardless of my religion.

Not everything that will be taught in a religious course comes as a story. Many of them are life lessons or parables on how to live a fruitful and moral life. I will take more away from these basic human values than I will a professor preaching to me their own beliefs.

Regardless of where you stand on this issue, or what you believe in, what you learn and experience at a university will shape who you are for the rest of your life. I may not agree with all of my professors, but these experiences have defined who I am. As a student, as an athlete and as an Atheist.

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VOTING 101 By: Amber James Feature Editor To vote successfully, we must remember that it is important to also be compliant of the rules and regulations that are put into place. Below are all the do’s and don’ts of voting that you need to know.

Whether you decide to vote or not, at least do your research!

Read up on the positions of all the candidates and make sure to read about the state and local candidates that will appear on the ballot. Giovanni Alvarado, a junior at the University of St. Francis says, “Voting is one of our most basic rights that we have as American citizens. If you ever see things you don’t like in our government, you have the right to make the change and express your voice. No matter what party you support, we are all Americans.” This is your future, so make it count.

DONT’S

DO’S

BRING YOUR GUN

RESEARCH

According to digg.com, a news aggregator, “There are only six states (Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Texas) that have explicit bans on guns in polling places.”

However, some states are considering a temporary ban. Basically, it could get complicated. This may be obvious, but it’s probably best to just leave your gun at home.

As the campaign season heats up, voters will be bombarded with information from candidates, from television ads and literature in the mail to social media posts and tweets.

If we are not researching the candidates that we are voting for, it could impact our future in more ways than one.

Don’t know where to start? According to AARP.org, there are five things we can do to be informed:

TAKE SELFIES

2. If one of the candidates is an incumbent in the House of Representatives or Senate, go to congress.gov and research their voting records, find out what issues they concentrate on, and how to contact them.

This may be your first time voting and trust me, I know how exciting it can be. It may be tempting to take a picture of you scribbling in the ballot but there are other ways to let people know that you voted. Thankfully, there are usually stickers available that let people know you voted. Take a selfie of you wearing the sticker instead! It’s an easy (and legal) way for everyone to know you participated in the election. Antonio Smithberg, a junior at the University of St. Francis says, “Selfies are definitely a bad idea.

Plus, do you really want people to see who you’re voting for and end up in a heated political discussion? Let voting day be a positive experience for you.”

1. Explore the candidates’ websites to see where they stand on your hot-button issues.

3. Attend campaign events, including town halls (or participate in them by phone or online) and informal coffees and other stops the candidates might be making in your community. Local party offices, public libraries and other community organizations usually have information on such events.

4. Find the campaign office and call or drop in. Candidates want your vote. Make them work for it. Ask to speak to the candidate or her or his representative and get your questions answered about the issues that matter to you.

5. Check the candidates’ answers on important issues.

Factcheck.org, which is run by the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania, keeps track of candidates’ statements and claims.”

BRING YOUR ID While ID laws vary from state to state, it is generally a good idea to bring some form of photo-ID if you have it.

For Illinois specifically, however, vote.org states, “If you’re not voting for the first time in Illinois, you don’t need to provide ID to vote by in person.” If you are not located in Illinois, you can look up your specific state’s rules on the vote.org website.

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COMMENTARY

“FRIENDS GIVING” By: Katie Wozniak Assistant Editor Around the holiday season, especially Thanksgiving time, we are looking forward to (or often trying to avoid) the time spent with family, immediate and extended. While this may be one of the few times you see your favorite cousins, it is also the time when you see all your aunts, uncles and grandparents dying to know every detail about your non-existent love life or your college career.

Sometimes, it is preferred to spend more time with your friends around this season rather than your family out of pure avoidance.

Friendsgiving is a self-dubbed as the holiday of millennials, established in everyday English language around the year 2007. According to Merriam-Webster in an online article discussing words that are not yet defined, but instead that they are watching: “Friendsgiving seems to be a relatively recent word. The earliest print uses of it that we’ve found so far date back to 2007, where it shows up in Usenet posts and on Twitter to refer to this informal meal. Given the fact that the word isn’t explained in these posts and tweets, it’s likely that Friendsgiving was floating around in spoken English for a bit before it showed up in written English—and this is pretty standard for new vocabulary.”

and heartwarming. USF junior Taylor Long describes her experience with Friendsgiving and how it has impacted her, saying: “When all of my high school friends started committing to colleges, we wanted to make sure that we would all stay in touch. So, Friendsgiving was started. Every time we get together, it is just like high school all over again and we have so much fun. We continue it every year because it helps us remember all the good times and memories we have shared together. And better yet, it gives us the opportunity to make more amazing memories with one another.”

Senior Marissa Salinas became nostalgic thinking about possibly getting her friends back together, saying: “My friends are basically my family as well. It would be so nice to eat together and just talk.

It’s being thankful for the little things in life, like your friends, that can make Friendsgiving such a humbling experience.”

Whether you decide to partake in this new holiday tradition or not, it is important to remember this holiday season who is important to you in your life. Make time to spend with them and maybe, just maybe, you will start a tradition of your own.

Gaining popularity, thanks to social media, Friendsgiving has become a selfdubbed “second Thanksgiving.” Friends of all ages gather together to celebrate, whether in high school, college or beyond. It can be a way to spend some more time with friends or reconnect with some you have not seen in years. While I may not find that ideal for some of the people I knew from high school, I believe this chance to reconnect is important Photos courtesy of Pexels and NY Times

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Halfway Party for Juniors, you’ve made it to or past the halfway point in your college career!

Join us for a party in your honor!

All students, faculty, staff, and alumni are invited to participate.

*Be sure to dress professionally.

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November 5, 2018

By: Alex Guglielmucci Promotions Manager

Traditions

SPORTS

USF Sport When it comes to professional sports, there are many traditions that catch the eye of fans all over the world. In many sports, when you make the playoffs, you often notice that players refuse to shave but rather grow out their “playoff beard.” This tradition was started in the 1980’s when players in the National Hockey League (NHL) would stop shaving when the playoffs started and would let their beard’s grow out until they were either eliminated or had won the Stanley Cup. In other sports such as college football, teams have their own traditions. For example, Notre Dame taps the infamous “Play Like A Champion Today” sign on their way onto the field and the Michigan Wolverines jump up and touch the “Go Blue” sign that hangs in their tunnel heading to the field.

Here at the University of St. Francis, the Encounter wanted to find out what our athletes around campus do before every game or tournament that is their own routine. Anthony Faron, who plays for the USF baseball team, says that, “We keep it pretty simple, we take batting practice, play catch and stretch to loosen up. Then we will meet with coach (Brian Michalak) to go over the game plan for the game. We then break into infield and outfield groups to take infield and outfield to prepare for the game, and when that is done, it is time to start the game.”

With a different prospective, USF bowler Michael Kicmal says, “I like to listen to music as I walk in the door with my bags, usually hardcore rap music, to get me in the right mindset to compete. I set my stuff down, see if everything fits perfectly. Then I clean my bowling balls or resurface them for better ball reaction and then put my shoes on. Before every

“Before every bowling session, I go in the bathroom and wash my hands” Photos courtesy of USF Athletic’s Flickr

bowling session, I go in the bathroom and wash my hands, to make sure they are 100 percent dry before we start our day. I usually do this five to ten minutes before we start bowling. Then I come back and talk with my teammates for a little bit before practice starts.”

Each sport is different in many ways but one thing that is constant is that each team has their own traditions before competition. If you would like to see some of the traditions each team has, visit www.gofightingsaints.com and select the team you would like to see, check out their schedule and support our teams!

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HOLIDAY

Game PREVIEWS By: Antonio Smithberg Sports Editor

NFL

The National Football League (NFL) and Thanksgiving go together like mashed potatoes and gravy. According to NFL.com, the tradition of playing games on Thanksgiving has been happening since the leagues inception in 1920. The Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions are two staple teams that play every year.

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions, 1:30 p.m. CT, CBS This game has the feel of a gritty gridiron matchup. Two National Football Conference (NFC) North franchises get ready to clash in what could be a game with significant playoff implications. With new head coach Matt Nagy and defensive weapon Khalil Mack, the Chicago Bears’ stout, hard-nosed defense will have to take on the elite quarterback, Matthew Stafford.

Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys, 3:30 p.m. CT, FOX Last year, after a season full of injuries, the Washington Redskins look to bounce back against a stagnant Dallas Cowboys offense. With the loss of a few key offensive components, Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott’s Cowboys have yet to find an identity this year. This could be a game that sparks life for both teams and will no doubt be a battle of the defenses.

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints, 7:20 p.m. CT, NBC The action early in the day continues on into the evening with the Atlanta Falcons taking on the New Orleans Saints. This game is certainly the whipped cream topping to the slice of pumpkin pie. Two fast paced offenses take the field in what will be a high scoring game.

Quarterbacks Drew Brees and Matt Ryan both have the offensive weapons to make this game one of the best of this year’s NFL season.

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With the holiday season upon us there are so many wonderful things to do with your family such as visiting loved ones, holiday parties and, of course, getting together to watch great sporting events. With baseball season over, sports such as football are heating up. While it can be easy to get lost in the whirlwind of the festivities, it is always nice to sit back with a heaping plate of food to enjoy some sports. With that being said, here is a brief preview of some of the games you can look forward to seeing during the Thanksgiving holiday.

NCAA Football It is often rare to have any college football on around the holidays. However, this year we will have the opportunity to see two college games on Thanksgiving Day. Colorado State Rams at Air Force Falcons, 2:30 p.m. CT, CBSSN When discussing college football, it is easy to pass up schools such as Colorado State and Air Force. They tend to fly under the radar; however both schools have great offenses that will make for an entertaining match up.

Mississippi State Bulldogs at Ole Miss Rebels, 6:30 p.m. CT, ESPN College football rivalries are great, especially those that are in the same state. With Mississippi State reaching its offensive potential, this game will be an intense matchup for the state of Mississippi.

Bears The Chicago Bears were off to an exciting start, accumulating a 3-1 record to begin the season. The last two weeks however, the team has endured some tough losses.

Those defeats include a 31-28 overtime loss against the Miami Dolphins and a 38-31 loss to the New England Patriots. Many fans believe the team could be 6-0 at this point in the season but a few mistakes have caused them to drop three games.

Blackhawks The Blackhawks are no longer the dominant team Chicago has become accustomed to seeing the last decade.

Star players have moved on or have aged considerablly since the dynasty era and the team does not have the chemistry and composition that it once had. After eight games the Blackhawks sit with a record of 4-2-2. With a healthy Corey Crawford, they could play well enough to make the playoffs but so far this season the team has struggled severly on defense and showed a lot of inconsistencies on the offensive end.

Blackhawks fan and USF nursing student, Samantha Ebeling has noticed the recent struggles but still loves the team: “Growing up a Blackhawks fan and experiencing the team win those Stanley Cups was truly special. It brought so much joy and unity to the city of Chicago. It definitely impacted me in a positive way so I will support the team through the good and the bad.”

Photos courtesy of ESPN

By: Blake Tomac PR Specialist

Bulls The Chicago Bulls are a very young, unproven team. They have a lot of talented players but lack the experience and chemistry that some of the superior teams in the NBA have. The regular season is offically underway and the Bulls will be without Lauri Markkanen, who is arguably their best player. According to ESPN, Markkanen suffered an elbow injury in practice and is expected to miss at least 12 to 15 games. The Bulls will have to rely heavily on players like Zach LaVine, Bobby Portis and newly acquired Jabari Parker until Markkanen can return to the lineup. There is a lot of potential for this team to be good but that will only happen if Coach Fred Hoiberg can develop the young guys and manage the strengths and weaknesses of roster.

Cubs A late-season offensive power outage along with a strong finish by the Brewers pushed the Cubs into the National League Wild Card game last month where they were eliminated by the Colorado Rockies. The most recent news since the season ended is that Theo Epstein is sticking with Joe Maddon as manager of the team for at least one more season. Maddon has yet to be offered a contract extension beyond that. A notable Cubs free

agent is Addison Russell. However, Russell was suspended 40 games by the MLB at the end of the season for violating the domestic abuse policy and the Cubs will likely part ways with the young infielder. With superstar Bryce Harper becoming a free agent, the Cubs may put most of their money into landing the 26-year-old MVP. Adding Harper would without question put the Cubs on top of the National League once again.

SPORTS

Chicago Sports

White Sox It was another dissapointing year for the White Sox as the team finished fourth in the American League Central with a record of 62-100. The club has not seen great success since winning the World Series in 2005 but they are starting to head in the right direction. The team is loaded with young talented prospects and fans are optomistic for the future. USF student Josh Tesch is one of those optomistic fans: “I’m really excited for next year because our number one prospect is expected to make the jump to the big leagues in Eloy Jiminez, as well as some other key players such as Dylan Cease. Obviously you don’t expect a lot as they’re still in the early stages of the rebuild but there have been glimpses of progress that make you excited to be a Sox fan.”

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Sport

Student Spotlight Akwasi Aikins, indoor/outdoor long and triple jumper, sat down with me and told me what it is like to be a student-athlete at the University of St. Francis. Aikins is junior with a major in Sports Management and minor in Marketing. In previous years, Aikins has received honors in being a two-time All-American in the triple jump (2018 indoor and outdoor), four-time All-Chicagoland Collegiate Athlete Conference (CCAC) selection and a CCAC Athlete of the Week. The winter sport season is approaching and will jump-start the beginning of second semester.

By: Bennie Radford Staff Writer

Bennie Radford: What athletics are you involved in?

Akwasi Aikins: Track & Field.

BR: What do your friends think of

your athletic success?

AA: They’re happy for me and love talking about it jokingly because they know I hate talking about my success.

BR: How do you handle missing out

on activities with friends because of your athletic schedule?

AA: I handle it fine, I just try to make sure I set time aside to see them collectively at once.

BR: Athletes have to eat healthy foods

to be in top shape. What foods do you

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have to give up when you’re in training? BR: Who is your role model and why?

AA: During the season I stay away from AA: It might sound cliché but my role fries and I rarely drink soda in general. models are my parents because how hard of workers they are.

BR: What have you learned BR: Tell me about about teama project or accomwork from plishment that you being on this consider to be the team? most significant in your career.

AA: Regardless if someone is in AA: Receiving a relay or not, All-American honors track is still a last indoor and team sport and outdoor season after being a good missing the cut by one teammate is very important. place the year prior.

“If someone is in a relay or not, track is still a team sport and being a good teammate is very important.”

BR: How does the team make you a

better player?

AA: This year we have an amazing freshmen class and they have been great.

The energy and competition level at practice has been very encouraging.

Be sure to stay tuned to check out Akwasi compete as well as the rest of the winter sport athletes within the upcoming months. For more information, visit www. gofightingsaints.com.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

Encounter Puzzles

SPORTS

Puzzles courtesy of www.sodukuweb.org and www.thewordsearch.com, Photo courtesy of USF Athletic’s Flickr

SUPERSTITIONS THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS CAPITALISM SOCIALISM CHICAGO HOLIDAY SNOWMAN AIRPORT WINTER VOTING

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