<<

University of , St. Louis IRL @ UMSL

Current (2010s) Student Newspapers

10-16-2017 Current, October 16, 2017 University of Missouri-St. Louis

Follow this and additional works at: https://irl.umsl.edu/current2010s

Recommended Citation University of Missouri-St. Louis, "Current, October 16, 2017" (2017). Current (2010s). 275. https://irl.umsl.edu/current2010s/275

This Newspaper is brought to you for free and open access by the Student Newspapers at IRL @ UMSL. It has been accepted for inclusion in Current (2010s) by an authorized administrator of IRL @ UMSL. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Vol. 51 Issue 1543 The Current October 16, 2017 UMSL’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS UMSL Graduate Cybersecurity Trio Awarded $10,000 In Scholarships by U.S. Bank

Kat Riddler derstand how they work. The Ap- Managing Editor ple IIc had a built in disassembler so that was the easy part of it. Un- .S. Bank awarded $10,000 in derstanding how the code worked Uscholarships to three gradu- was a bit more of a challenge. When ate cybersecurity students at the we figured it out that it could do University of Missouri-St. Louis: things like change a choose bytes in David Autry, Vernon (Vii) Maurice the code so we could have unlimited Bishop, and Alan Alyas. The formal lives so our little man could make it awards ceremony was on October to the last level, we had motivation 11 at 10 a.m. in 103 Anheuser-Busch to understand the code.” Hall. Senior managers of U.S. Bank, Autry has designed and writ- UMSL administrators, as well as In- ten an application that transforms formation Systems Advisory Board two-dimensional magnetic reso- members were in attendance. nance images of a human brain into UMSL holds the National Cen- a three-dimensional model. He ter for Academic Excellence in Cy- plans to complete an internship in ber Defence Education (CAE-CDE) cybersecurity in service of a gov- designation granted by the Nation- THE CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/ ernment agency before branching al Security Agency and the U.S. De- The three scholarship winners with their certificates and the U.S. Bank representative who presented their awards. out into the field to help curb cyber partment of Homeland Security. of professionals trained in cyberse- scholarship. Autry is pursuing the away. I would turn the power switch threats to organizations and indi- UMSL is only one of two institu- curity who can help organizations Master of Science in Information and a good old blinking white rect- viduals. He has earned Latin hon- tions with that honor in Missou- secure the sensitive data stored in Systems degree at the UMSL and angular thing would come up right ors distinction in his undergraduate ri and the only one in the St. Louis their systems. U.S. Bank is commit- the Graduate Certificate in Cy- away and talk about its fast boot degrees. region. ted to protecting the information bersecurity. He has a passion for processor. I wondered what is that Bishop was awarded a $2,500 Professor of Information Sys- of its customers and giving back to technology and taught himself pro- thing for? What does it do?” scholarship. He is pursuing the tems and Chair of the IS Depart- society. It is thus at the forefront of gramming and assembly language as He continued to feed his curi- Graduate Certificate in Cyberse- ment Dinesh Mirchandani said, developing a diverse workforce in a youth. osity with his second computer, an curity at UMSL. He is an alumnus “Information Systems are vital to cybersecurity by investing in the ed- He received his first computer Apple IIc. Autry said, “A good friend of UMSL having graduated Cum the functioning of organizations. ucation of talented students.” when he was seven years old. Autry of mine in junior high disassembled Laude with the Bachelor of Arts There is, however, an acute shortage Autry was awarded a $5,000 said, “I became interested in it right computer games on that one to un- continued on page 4 SGA Spotlight: IS Students Aleathea Williams Study Abroad Harold Crawford Kat Riddler "John Ogonowski and Doug Bere- Staff Writer Managing Editor uter Farmer-to-Farmer Program" in honor of one of the pilots killed etting more involved with the n October 9, several stu- September 11, 2001 and of former Gstudent body of the University Odents and former students Congressman Bereuter, who initial- of Missouri-St. Louis is the major in information systems present- ly sponsored the program. focus of the Student Government ed their experience with the John As aligned with Feed the Fu- Association. Aleathea Williams, ju- Ogonowski and Doug Bereuter ture, the U.S. Government’s global nior, political science, is arguably Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) program. hunger and food security initiative, one of the busiest students on cam- The F2F program is adminis- F2F works to support inclusive ag- pus. Williams serves as the Director tered by USAID and provides tech- riculture sector growth, facilitate of Events and Senator for SGA on nical assistance from U.S. volunteers private sector engagement in the ag- top of being the Vice President of to farmers, farm groups, agribusi- riculture sector, enhance develop- the Associated Black Collegians. nesses, and other agriculture sec- ment of local capacity and promote Williams sits on the Assessment tor institutions in developing and climate-smart development. Vol- of Educational Outcomes commit- transitional countries to promote unteer assignments address host- tee and the Faculty Teaching and sustainable improvement in food se- led priorities to expand economic Service Awards committee as part of curity, agricultural processing, and growth that increases incomes and SGA. Williams said, "I sought to be production and marketing. improves access to nutritious food. a part of Student Government Asso- The F2F program was initial- The F2F program has demon- ciation to learn how I could impact ly authorized by Congress in the strated significant impact through student experience as a student my- 1985 Farm Bill and funded through high-quality services from volun-

self and to serve as representation ANSELM OF CORINNE COURTESY Title V of Public Law 480. The teers. Volunteers help individuals continued on page 7 Aleathea Williams is the Director of Events of SGA program was designated as the continued on page 4 What’s Inside:

Boy Scouts, pg. 3 The Birds, pg. 5 Blues, pg. 6 Violent Video Games, pg. 7 2 October 16, 2017 CURRENT STAFF

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Michael Plumb Managing Editor Kat Riddler News Editor Aubrey Byron Features Editor Now hiring! Sports Editor Roderick Wilbon A&E Editor Chris Zuver Opinions Editor Kyle Mannisi Copy Editors Janeece Woodson Giuseppe Vitellaro Daniel Brown-Schnurr Staff Writers Harold Crawford Mike A. Bryan Trevonte Harris

Staff Photographer Giuseppe Vitellaro

DESIGN Production Editor OPEN Math Problem of the Week Photo Editor OPEN Last week’s puzzle answer: 7 Hours Web Editor OPEN The first correct answer was given by John . Multimedia Editor Roderick Wilbon Cartoonist/Artists Amanda Royer This week’s puzzle: "Two candles are the same Mike Diliberto

BUSINESS height, but one will take 4 hours to burn completely, Business Manager Cassandra Filip and the other will take 6 hours to burn completely. Advertising Director Michael Plumb How long will it wake for one candle to be twice the Ad Representatives OF FLICKR COURTESY Now hiring! height of the other candle?” Distribution Manager Chris Zuver Email solutions, guesses, comments to [email protected]. Social Media Director Aubrey Byron Archivist Steven Doerhoff

CONTACT US

388 MSC, 1 University Blvd St. Louis, MO 63121-4400 [email protected] thecurrent-online.com presents Newsroom 314-516-5174 [email protected] Business/Advertising 314-516-5316 [email protected] Fax 314-516-6811 Editor-in-Chief Edifying (adjective): uplifting; morally or spiritually [email protected] Internships and Volunteer Positions instructive. [email protected] Letters to the Editor [email protected] Sentence: October is LGBTQ History Month at UMSL, and Twitter @UMSLTheCurrent Facebook many exciting and edifying events are happening. Check /TheCurrentStudentNews PRIZM's Facebook page for more information. how can you be Involved? • Get even More News and Content online at thecurrent-online.com

• Send Story Tips to [email protected] • Be Featured or Feature an Undercurrent

• Respond to stories with Letters to the Editor • Like us on Fb /TheCurrentStudentNews TCINDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS • Volunteer, Intern, or Work for the Paper • Follow us on Twitter @UMSLTheCurrent

MON 66 TUE 72 WED 74 THU 77 FRI 77 SAT 78 SUN 74 45 47 51 53 56 59 57 October 16, 2017 news 3 Breaking with Tradition: The Boy Scouts will Begin Allowing Girls Aubrey Byron Girl Scouts are not based off of the News Editor Boy Scouts and feature less out- door programs. They have different oy Scouts of America (BSA) leadership goals and badge re- Bannounced on October 11 its quirements. The distinction of Ea- decision to begin allowing girls into gle Scout is also a main appeal for Cub Scout programs. The Board of girls wanting to join the Boy Scout Directors voted unanimously in its ranks. The Girl Scouts have a similar historic decision, one they claim near-equivalent, The Gold Award, comes after years of requests from but it is not nearly as prestigious and families and girls. well-known. According to the group, chang- The Girl Scouts responded to ing family dynamics make programs the decision with condemnation. that serve entire families more ap- "The Boy Scouts' house is on fire," pealing. The decision could also The Girl Scouts asserted that Boy help them reach the Scouts’ un- Scouts are responding to sex abuse derserved groups like Asian and scandals and low registration num- Hispanic communities, which may bers by trying to “poach” girls. prefer to enjoy activities as a unit, In reality, both groups have suf- research has found. OF WIKIPEDIA COURTESY fered from lower participation in re- “This decision is true to the The Boy Scouts of America have been restricted to only boys. The new inclusion will allow siblings of different genders to go cent years, according to both groups BSA’s mission and core values out- through together. member numbers, as after school lined in the Scout Oath and Law. The dens, or create an all-girl den pack. badges, service hours, and projects. the troop, the organization does not activities become more numerous values of Scouting – trustworthy, The den structure will remain sin- This coveted, hard-earned rank is a recognize her achievements. and diverse. loyal, helpful, kind, brave and rever- gle gender. large reason one girl has been fight- Cases like ’s are exact- “The BSA’s record of produc- ent, for example – are important for The scouts plans to develop a ing to join the Boy Scouts for years. ly the ones Boy Scout leaders say ing leaders with high character and both young men and women,” said curriculum for older girls as well. Sixteen year old Sydney Ireland they’re trying to appeal to, where integrity is amazing” said Randall Michael Surbaugh, the BSA’s Chief Beginning in 2019 the organization has been trying officially join the siblings can participate together as Stephenson, BSA’s national board Scout Executive. estimates, they will use the Cub Boy Scouts for years. She has been families. Many Scoutmasters of the chairman. “I’ve seen nothing that The option to sign up girls for Scout integration model to expand participating and camping with group also happen to be moms of develops leadership skills and dis- Cub Scouts will begin in 2018. Packs a program that allows girls to reach the scouts since she was four since the boys. cipline like this organization. It will have the option to remain com- the rank of Eagle Scout. The Ea- her brother became a scout. Even Of course the most resound- is time to make these outstanding prised of all-boys dens, some girls gle Scout ranking requires years of though she has completed rank- ing criticism of the move is, “Why leadership development programs ings alongside other members of can’t they just join the Girl Scouts” available to girls.”

Aubrey Byron News Editor

he following is a series of dai- their parents’ concern about a text Tly crime and incident reports message. All was in order. At 3:40 issued by the University of Missou- p.m. UMSL PD contacted an UMSL ri-St. Louis Police Department be- student regarding their parents be- tween October 5 to 11. ing unable to contact them. All was October 5: At 2:15 p.m. an auto in order. At 8:04 p.m. a single house accident occurred between two ve- key was found in West Drive Garage hicles. Only minor damage and no and held for safekeeping. At 9:46 injuries were reported. At 3:59 p.m. p.m. an UMSL student reported an in Oak Hall an UMSL student re- odor of marijuana. UMSL PD were ported receiving a check from a unable to locate anyone smoking or possible fraudulent job application the source. site. At 11:20 p.m. a student ID was October 10: At 8 a.m. one vehi- found on a shuttle bus, turned into cle struck a pole in University Place.

UMSL PD, and held for safekeeping. Only minor damage and no injuries OF FLICKR COURTESY At 11:57 p.m. a nonstudent was locat- were reported. At 10 a.m. UMSL PD The Boy Scouts of America during the Rose Parade in in 2010. ed sleeping in a vehicle and was es- was contacted by Residence Life corted from campus. regarding claims of missing prop- October 6: At 11:58 a.m. Resi- erty made by a former student. At dence Life staff requested UMSL 4:29 p.m. an UMSL student report- Currently Involved Column PD and paramedics for an unre- ed a former student was harassing sponsive student in Mansion Hill. them via text and social media. At his week in the Office of Stu- event geared toward UMSL fami- ing tons of free food? Well now is All was in order and there was no 6:00 p.m. an UMSL student’s parked Tdent Involvement at the Uni- lies and the surrounding commu- your chance. Come by University medical issue. At 3:15 p.m. in Thom- car was struck and damaged in West versity of Missouri-St. Louis: nity. It is intended to provide a safe Program Board's Murder Mystery as Jefferson Library a found debit Drive Parking Garage. The car left • The Leadership Diversity & and fun way for families to enjoy on October 18th at 6:30 p.m. in MSC card was turned in to UMSL PD and the scene. At 9:50 p.m. UMSL PD New Member Institute is this week. Halloween festivities, early expo- Century Rooms B & C for a great held for safekeeping. At 6:28 p.m. St. responded to an odor of marijuana Students are encouraged to sign up sure of a collegiate environment to night of laughs and sleuthing. 80's Louis City Police contacted UMSL in Oak Hall. At 10:13 p.m. UMSL PD for the institute, hosted by the Office children, and increase the commu- themed costumes are encouraged, regarding and UMSL student’s so- responded to a report of an intoxi- of Student Involvement. The Lead- nity’s knowledge about the campus. but not required. cial media posts. cated person in the MIllennium Stu- ership Diversity & New Member In- Attendants will enjoy various activ- • Allies in Action–a LGBTQ+ October 7: There were no inci- dent Center. The individual could stitute is a one-day conference open ities and informational booths, fol- History Month Event. Join the dents to report this day. not be located. to all UMSL students. The focus of lowed by trunk-or-treating, which conversation on ways to become October 8: At 11:30 p.m. UMSL October 11: At 4:10 p.m. UMSL this year’s Institute is to engage and means they go from trunk to trunk a better ally to the LGBTQ+ com- PD found a book and notebook in students reported an unknown indi- educate participants in the areas of getting treats. Organizations and de- munity, with special guests Leon the roadway near Metrolink South. vidual entered their unlocked apart- diversity and social justice. Lunch partments can sign up to provide ac- Braxton (Black Pride) & Peter Seay The owner was notified. ment and several rooms. Nothing will be provided. Learn more and tivity booths, trunks and candy, or (Trans-Parent USA). This event is October 9: At 11:55 a.m. an was taken and the suspect fled the register by viewing the calendar both, from September 18 to October on October 18, 2017 from 3:30 to 5 UMSL student refused further area. At 6:20 a.m. UMSL students event on TritonSync. 20 at https://orgsync.com/59704/ p.m. in the MSC Fireside Lounge. medical attention after a fall in the reported an unknown individu- • UMSL Students of Service forms/267129. Do you have ques- The Office of Student Involve- Millennium Student Center. At 3 al entered their unlocked apart- presents its 8th annual Trunk-or- tions? Contact Special Projects ment can be contacted at 314-516- p.m. a found car key was turned in ment around 3:30 a.m. The suspect Treat event, happening October Chair Taylor Milon at tmmvf2@ 5291 or studentinvolvement@umsl. to UMSL PD, later retrieved by the left the house when confronted by 28th from 12 to 2 p.m. in the Mil- mail.umsl.edu. edu. owner. At 3:20 p.m. UMSL PD con- students lennium Student Center South Ga- • Have you ever wanted to be a tacted an UMSL student regarding rage. Trunk or Treat is a service detective... in the 80's... while eat- 4 features and news October 16, 2017 IS Offers International Experience to Students Continued From Page 1 sustain natural resources across the is making a difference in commu- and organizations build local insti- globe. nities abroad and allowing UMSL tutions and linkages to resolve local Dr. Maurice Dawson, Jr., profes- students to make that impact them- problems and since 1985 have pro- sor in information systems, brought selves. It is rewarding as a professor vided direct hands-on training to the program to UMSL. Dawson said, when students complete an intern- over 1.2 million people. In the last “A friend did an assignment through ship. But this global event where five-year program alone, volunteers Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in they are even recognized with a assisted their host organizations to Tanzania in 2015 and told me about presidential volunteer service med- increase annual sales by over $442 the program. She said her experi- als truly warms the soul. I truly feel million and raise annual incomes by ence was amazing and that the im- that I am providing knowledge to $132 million. The program leveraged pact she had on lives in the region students are in turn changing the

RODERICK M. WILBON/THE CURRENT RODERICK over $31 million worth of volunteer within agriculture. This was some- world.” Gentlemen of Vision time contributions to development thing that I wanted to participate in, Undergraduate Information efforts and mobilized $40 million so I did, but I had communication Systems students that participate from assisted local host organiza- issues with CRS. I took it upon my- in this program receive college ABC’s 12th Annual tions. Nearly 1 million farmer fam- self to research the grant and found credit. Graduate students may also ilies (representing about 47 million out there were more Non Govern- join for credit by registering for an people) directly benefitted, and ap- ment Organizations (NGOs) that independent study/research course. Greek Step Show proximately 37% of all individuals won this particular contract.” Students do not have to pay for any- trained were women. Since program Dawson continued, “Having thing to participate in this program. Roderick M. Wilbon ty Program Board, Student Reten- initiation, nearly 16,000 volunteer experience in Gambia I saw that The organization pays for the visa, Sports Editor tion Services, Office of Admissions, assignments have been completed Senegal had an IT opportunity. I plane ticket cost, lodging, translator, and SEMPA. Their team effort put in more than 110 countries. Please contacted Winrock International and a per diem is given per day. he Associated Black Colle- together this great show that also see below for specific examples of and from there we set everything up The requirement time in the Tgians’ 12th Annual Greek Step included a grand prize to the best volunteer successes. from July 2016. The assignment in country for any nation in Africa is Show took place on October 7 at performance. Winrock International won the Dakar was amazing and this was the two weeks while in Asia it is three the J.C. Penney Auditorium on the Opening the act was fellow USAID grant to perform services for first opportunity that Winrock In- weeks. For those seeking more ex- University of Missouri-St. Louis UMSL student Mario Miles-Tur- West Africa under the F2F program. ternational had to do an IT assign- tended assignments, there are pos- campus. The show was hosted by nage, senior, media studies, who Winrock International is a recog- ment. After the assignment I spoke sibilities up to six months with all KizzQ By The Way and Miss Pooh goes by the Instagram name Riv- nized leader in U.S. and interna- to Jennifer at Winrock about having costs covered. Students work direct- from HOT 104.1 FM, with DJ Ho- vio McThriftington. A great vi- tional development with a focus on our students do the IT assignments.” ly with Dr. Dawson weeks before micide on the 1’s and 2’s for over olinist who has been featured in social, agricultural and environmen- Other schools like Thunderbird departing to ensure readiness in the 250 guests. ABC is the student or- many projects and his very own EP tal issues. Inspired by its namesake School of Global Management at field. Once students are on site, they ganization with the slogan, “Invest S.W.I.M. Greeks that participated Winthrop Rockefeller, Winrock State University are going are prepared to work independent- In Self. Invest In ABC.” The group were: Alpha Eta Chapter of Alpha combines scientific and technical a number of business related assign- ly for the project sponsor with the celebrates African-American heri- Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated expertise with entrepreneurial in- ments like Hopes for Our Time in local Winrock International office tage and culture on campus. and the Beta Nu Chapter of Kappa novation to deliver market-based Piura and #BeingFemaleInNigeria— and government client. The chairs of this event includ- Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. solutions that improve lives around social media campaign of women The student and faculty expe- ed: Ysaye Ellis, senior, media stud- The show also had performances by the world. Winrock’s mission is to speaking out about the discrimina- rience overseas will appear in next ies, events coordinator; Lilo Baker, dance groups: Team Rocket, Dream empower the disadvantaged, in- tion they face in their daily lives. week’s edition. senior, theater and dance, public Team, and Gentlemen of Vision. The crease economic opportunity and Dr. Dawson said, “ I feel that this relations chair; and the ABC mem- show ended with Beta Nu Chapter ber committee. The co-sponsors of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, In- were PRIZM, Campus Life, Student corporated winning the showcase Government Association, Universi- for a $1,000 grand prize. Trio Awarded $10,000 In Scholarships by U.S. Bank Continued From Page 1 sic Performance degree. Alan be- preciate the human and social en- in Music. He had come back to St. lieves his background in music has gineering aspects of cybersecurity. Louis after working as a musician in enabled him to become a successful Dr. Maurice Dawson, Jr., pro- Nashville, . cybersecurity analyst as both have fessor in information systems, was Bishop’s interest in cybersecuri- taught him to practice his craft on a present at the awards ceremony. ty stems from years of practice an- daily basis and to use critical think- He said, “All three students I know alyzing and processing data as well ing and problem solving skills. personally. Alan and David are cur- as his natural inclination towards Alyas finished his undergrad- rent graduate students in both of my

RODERICK M. WILBON/THE CURRENT RODERICK mathematics. He ran into Alyas at a uate and decided to come back to classes. And Vi used to come during Kappa Alpha PSI winners. violin shop where they both worked. UMSL because he felt comfortable my Sunday lab sessions to learn “We would sit and listen to Bach in at the university. He looked into the more about Linux, cybersecurity, the morning before the shop opened Graduate Certificate in Cybersecu- and Python programing. I am excit- up… We would just talk about ana- rity and Alyas said, “I fell in love ed that these students received the News Brief: Silent lyzing the music— what’s going on with it immediately. I applied at the scholarships. I am working to get with it.” department and they generously let students to take advantage of feder- Bishop described that Alyas “put me in that day. They made me part al funded programs, and other fel- Witnesses on a bug in my ear” about cybersecu- of the family.” lowships to further their learning.” rity at UMSL. Bishop said, “What I Alyas wanted to thank the pro- Autry stated the importance the loved about music was the routine, fessors that made him feel like fam- scholarships provide for the three Campus the daily get in there and go at it, ily in the program and have helped students. Autry said, “The cost of and I’m finding the same thing from him to succeed. Alyas said, “There college education is becoming in- Aubrey Byron enced physical violence in a rela- mathematics and music in the com- are so many people to thank. With- creasingly expensive. Many stu- News Editor tionship, and one in four women is puter sciences and information sys- out them I would not be here to- dents struggle to find ways to pay for abused during a relationship in her tems types of work.” day: Dr. Mirchandani, Dr. Khan, Dr. it. U.S. Bank has been kind enough to ed statues have begun to ap- lifetime. Bishop is particularly interest- Dawson. They don’t just dedicate offer cybersecurity scholarships to Rpear around University of Mis- The iconic silhouettes made of ed in a career in penetration testing their time in class but they stay af- some of the students this year.” souri-St. Louis campus. The statues red wood represent people who to help protect sensitive informa- ter class to answer my silly ques- He continued, “Through schol- are called “Silent Witnesses.” The have lost their lives to domestic vi- tion from malicious attacks. Bishop tions. They are always available via arships and corporate governance Silent Witness National Institute is olence. The project began with the plans to earn professional certifica- phone, email, or on weekends I can like U.S. Bank, students can real- a program that is intended to raise silhouettes of twenty seven women tions in the field and to give back to catch them at a coffee shop in the ize their dreams and potentials and awareness for domestic violence whose murders inspired a group of society with his professional skills. Central West End asking silly ques- devote more time to their academ- and abuse. The goal of the group women and artists in to Alyas was awarded a $2,500 tions they probably have answered a ic pursuits … On behalf of the stu- is to abolish domestic violence take action. scholarship. Alyas is pursuing the million times, but I still need to ask dents, faculty, and staff of UMSL I homicides. If you or someone you know Master of Science in Information them again.” would like to express our gratitude October is Domestic Violence would like more resources on do- Systems at UMSL as well as the Alyas’ natural trait for under- for U.S. Bank’s support and believing Awareness month. According to the mestic violence or abuse, please Graduate Certificate in Cyberse- standing the behaviors and reac- in UMSL.” group, over one third of high school contact UMSL Counseling Services. curity. He is an alumnus of UMSL tions of people to certain problems and college students have experi- having earned the Bachelor of Mu- and situations enables him to ap- October 16, 2017 arts & entertainment 5 Brings Wonder and Talent to UMSL

Trevonte Harris to his singing capabilities. But perhaps the most interesting Staff Writer Not every artist can pull off both part of the show is the tips he gave singing and dancing. , for in- on how to be a social media star. he University of Missouri-St. stance, said she would never be His first point was to believe. He TLouis welcomed YouTube and caught dancing, that it was just not talked about the importance of be- music star Todrick Hall to campus her style. However, Hall seemed to lieving in yourself. Then he drove up on October 10. The program start- have it down pat. This first song was the second point which was Entre- ed at 7:30 p.m. at the Blanche M. called “Who Let the Freaks Out?” preneurship, and explained that this Touhill Performing Arts Center. He put on a fantastic performance is what really allows you to be suc- Hall is a Youtuber who has been with both excellent singing and cessful. This is all coming from a guy very successful online, command- dance routines. who truly believes in entrepreneur- ing a subscriber base of 2.7 million. The next number was a cover ship and has financed a lot of his Prizm’s Student Government of Justin Bieber’s “Sorry.” He chan- projects on his own.His third point Association Representative Audrey neled the energy of the audience was Yass, which he said he started Taylor, senior, undeclared, took the who sang along. As the song went adding to everything and it made it stage and introduced him. She ex- on, it was clear that the audience better. His fourth point was that you plained the background of Hall, dis- was loving it. need to Own Your Brand. He also cussing points in his career such as After the Bieber number, he ex- discussed Networking and that you his starring role in the Broadway ited the stage and the crowd was need to Evolve, which means that show “Kinky Boots.” He also served shown another video by Hall. The you should change with the times, as a backup dancer in ’s video was funny and entertaining, and Challenge yourself. video, “Look What You Made Me definitely appropriate for a person These points can be ordered to

Do.” All-in-all, Hall is an accom- who has a history on YouTube. It spell out Beyoncé, who is Hall’s idol. OF OSI COURTESY plished singer and dancer. was almost as if we were watching He strongly believes that everyone Todrick Hall in his advertisments around UMSL before the event October 10. The lights darkened in the the- a video on YouTube. should be a Beyoncé fan. fore watching a movie and by the He discussed his third solo al- ater as a collage of Hall’s various In the video, he made fun of The second part of the show time the movie was over his vid- bum, “Straight Outta Oz,” which music videos played, getting the the title of his show and pondered was a Q&A, which included a set eo had gone viral. The video is still was self-financed, costing $300,000, crowd ready for what they were whether or not it should be called of two chairs and a table. Office of available on YouTube. but Hall said that he made the mon- about to experience. The video end- something like “The Todrick Hall Student Involvements’ Assistant Di- Other things discussed includ- ey back within 24 hours and that ed with the message: “Thanks for Experience,” but then decided that rector Ashlee Roberts was the host. ed his opinion on negativity, and he he was charting with Adele and that marvelous introduction.” And it was too long. He declared that We learned that Hall’s first hit was said he used to always focus on the Beyoncé. He also drove the point then two female dancers took the the title should be something short- a song about McDonald’s and was negative comments. But after a fan home that you should follow your stage. Hall was not far behind. His er, like “Todrick Live” instead of written just because he liked the confronted him about it he now fo- dreams and that fame and fortune dancing was truly superb and added “Todrick Hall Live.” fast food chain. He uploaded it be- cuses mostly on positive comments. are attainable. An Open Letter to Beck about Your New : Where Has All the Funk Gone? Mike A. Bryan your party side go? Or vice versa: Beck has become a husband and fa- Staff Writer where did the introspective beau- ther? Is this music produced for a ty reached on “Mutations,” “Sea younger crowd due to a life change? Beck, my goodness, what has Change” and “” go? A quick look into Wikipedia reveals happened to your music? Over This radio-friendly album sounds that yes, indeed, our revered pastor twenty years have passed since you mass-produced for teeny boppers. of the funky, progressive, experi- declared yourself to be a loser, and To be quite honest, “Wow” is the mental, alternative rock genre has in the process, you have become only track that truly comes across as more than one child. One can’t help somewhat of a god of experimental Beck, with “Dear Life” being remi- but wonder if the changes that come alternative music. niscent of some of your earlier work. with fatherhood have mellowed our Your songs have been featured Beck is the king of funky, formerly golden Beck into a muta- in TV, movies, and video games. weird, and offbeat, and this is the op- tion that is a complete sea change Your production talents have giv- posite. The loser has morphed into from the screaming “” en us some gems, like a solo album a boring Mr. Popular. The whole al- at . you produced for bum is mainstream and sounds like Where are the fuzzed- of called “Demolished music that has been done before, by out, reverb-laden, rap-like vocals Thoughts,” and an album you pro- bands like MGMT or Matt and Kim; from the earlier works? Why is duced for Stephen Malkmus (also OF CAPITOL COURTESY there is no new ground broken here. everything so focused on catchy of Pavement) and the Jicks, “Mir- Album cover art of "Colors" “Colors” is radio-friendly and main- hooks and sugary sounds? I’m sor- ror Traffic,” which was released in showcased your wide abilities in ardent fans after just one listen. stream to the point of being unin- ry, Beck, but this album is a two August 2011. Your more recent col- constructing various new forms of There is not much new ex- spired and unimportant. The music, thumbs down. You have given us an laborators include Childish Gam- music from a diverse set of influenc- ploration on this album; it is focused while complexly layered, is point- overly mature, sedentary version of bino, Sia, and M83, which were es. But now you have given us a new on synth—and drum machine—driv- less and says nothing. Someone your formerly funky self. Even after all amazing, with unique sounds. album, “Colors,” which is boring, en dance music that comes across even decided that throwing a love multiple listens, the album does not Most of your have been pro- slightly repetitive, and so sickly pop- as lame and out of touch. What song into the mix, “Fix Me,” would gain in complexity or interest. I will gressive, somewhat revelatory, and py as to turn off most of your most happened to the funk? Where did be a good idea - it was not. Perhaps shelve this one and wait for the next. Aristophanes ‘The Birds’ Comes to the Touhill at UMSL Chris Zuver over both gods and mortals. The cast included Cassidy Fly- A&E Editor The production of "The Birds" nn, graduate, acting; Dylan Hous- was described as a quite silly adapta- ton, junior, acting; Dre Williams, n October 12 through 15, the tion, written specifically for UMSL’s sophomore, business management/ OBlanche M. Touhill Perform- Theatre and Cinema Arts Depart- theatre/cinema arts; Sydney Hal- ing Arts Center and the University ment. While the overall themes of lett, junior, special education/the- of Missouri-St. Louis Theatre pre- the play have remained relevant atre; Joshua Mayfield, sophomore, sented the Aristophanes comedy, since it was first performed at the psychology, Wallat Baban, junior, The Birds. The play tells the story City Dionysia in 414 B.C., some of psychology/biochemistry; Kyle of two Athenians who tire of the city the details, references, and jokes Mertens; Courtnee Brownlee, se- life and its politics, poetry, religion, have been changed. While the play nior, media studies; and Mona Sa- and business and so they leave in still takes place in 414 B.C., the ver- bau, senior, PR marketing. search of something better. They nacular, music, and jokes have been The performance was visually decide to seek out where the birds updated for modern audiences. This colorful and featured fire effects. dwell. Upon meeting the birds and was done in order for audiences to Modern critics claim “The Birds” seeing how they rule their land, the have a response similar to what the to be a well-crafted fantasy, note- men come to believe that if they can ancient Greeks would have had to worthy of its portrayal of birds and GIUSEPPE VITELLARO/THE CURRENT GIUSEPPE VITELLARO/THE control the sky, they can have power the original. their songs. Ty (Cassidy Flynn) explains his plan for world domination. 6 sports October 16, 2017 Blues Matching Best Start Sports Calendar In Franchise History So Far October Roderick M. Wilbon Monday, 10/16 All Day Sports Editor Men's Golf Away he Saint Louis Blues are com- Monday, 10/16 All Day Ting off a successful road trip at Women's Golf Home 4-2 now. The team is looking very different from when they did in the Tuesday, 10/17 All Day preseason. Many fans and writers Women's Golf Home were concerned for the missing players that are injured and a core Tuesday, 10/17 All Day of the team. Many of them thought Men's Golf Away the Blues would take a lot of loses Friday, 10/20 5 p.m. in the beginning of the season. The question of which players would Women's Soccer Home step up was the real issue. Thus far Friday, 10/20 7 p.m. the best move the Blues made was letting the younger guys get a shot. Women's Volleyball Home The 2016-2017 season for the Friday, 10/20 7:30 p.m. Blues had the same injury issue throughout most of the season. They Men's Soccer Home battled though and many of the re- Saturday, 10/21 3 p.m. placements came in and produced. Women's Volleyball Home They finally got healthy right when it counted at playoff time. The resil- Monday, 10/23 All Day COURTESY OF SCOTT ROVAK OF SCOTT COURTESY ience paid off with the Blues getting Men's Golf Away farther in the playoffs than they had Brayden Schenn, #10, takes the ice for warmups before the game. in a decade. They made it to round has come in playing on the first line. some thought was very risky. Now Miklasz of 101Sports.com and Rod- Tuesday, 10/24 All Day two of the NHL Playoffs—a great He is making big impacts on the it is paying dividends and he has erick Wilbon of thecurrent-online. Men's Golf Away feat. team with his assists and enforc- been shining every day since train- com were calling Jaden Schwartz Wednesday, 10/25 1 p.m. Brayden Schenn is the best pro- ing his will on opponents. Schenn ing camp. out, left-wing, #17, for his unen- motion I have seen since Robby Fab- was acquired from the Flyers in Before the regular season start- thused, hesitant, and lost presea- Men's Soccer Home bri last season. Schenn, #10, center, the Jori Lehtera trade, a trade that ed, sports-writers such as Bernie son play. Fans have not seen the Wednesday, 10/25 3:30 p.m. supposed 30-goal-scorer that is a core member of this team. Quick- Women's Soccer Home ly, Schwartz has caught fire since Friday, 10/27 5 p.m. the regular season started with two goals and five assists thus Men's Swimming Home far. Sports-writers can hold their Friday, 10/27 7 p.m. tongues now about Schwartz if he Women's Volleyball Home keeps this high octane play up for the full season. Saturday, 10/28 1 p.m. The Blues did take a beating Women's Swimming Home from the Panthers 5-2 on October 12. The shots on goal were Saturday, 10/28 3 p.m. 39-38 Blues for the game. Once, the Women's Volleyball Home Blues scored in the 2nd Period, the Panthers just confused the defense. Sunday, 10/29 TBA Many of the goals they had the de- Men's Soccer Home fense out of place and confused, or Sunday, 10/29 TBA just plainly beat them. The Blues have matched the best start in fran- Women's Soccer Home chise history. In the game Vince Monday, 10/30 All Day Dunn, defense, #29, scored his first goal. Paul Stastny, center, #26, is red Women's Golf Home hot; Vladimir Tarasenko, ace, right Tuesday, 10/31 7 p.m. wing, #91, is not only scoring but as- sisting with goals, too. Finally, Alex Women's Volleyball Home Pietrangelo, captain, #27, is leading all NHL defensemen in points this season. Blues also brought up Sam- my Blais before October 14’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning game. The game was his first pro- fessional debut. Blais recorded two shots on goal and 2 blocks in a game in which the Blues tried to turn it late in the game. The final score was a 2-1 loss for the Blues. “We gotta be sharper, and know when we get on the ice the situation in the game,” said Mike Yeo. “They played a good game over there, and they’re a good team. “Mostly we beat ourselves though with mistakes, and that’s a bad recipe playing against a good team,” said Yeo. The Blues return home Octo- ber 18 to face the BlackHawks—the dreaded rivals who are always a sore spot in the Blues’ side. It will be a great home game and a packed house. For more information visit https://www.nhl.com/blues. October 16, 2017 opinions and features 7 Rick Santorum’s ‘Mountain of Evidence’: Stepping up to Bat for Video Games Chris Zuver A&E Editor

uring an on-air discussion on DOctober 8, CNN commentator and former Senator Rick Santorum blamed video games for contributing to violence in the real world. His discussion with oth- er commentators began in regards to the recent mass shooting in and how the two political par- ties should work together to handle gun regulation. However, partway through the discussion, Santorum began to speak about Hollywood and the video game industry: OF WIKIPEDIA COURTESY “Violence in television and the ESRB Ratings for video games. video games—there is a mountain creasing police presence at school I’ve ever witnessed from a gamer of evidence out there, psychological would be effective, while 50% disappointed is through fists slam- evidence, about what we’re doing to thought that increased government ming on a table and cries of anger. our young people with these video spending on mental health screen- Mr. Santorum, I will agree with games, violent video games, and you ing and treatment was the answer. you and the Republicans that plac- never hear the left trying to go after Look, I’m going to come clean: I ing sanctions on guns will not stop Hollywood or the gaming market. It OF FLICKR COURTESY am a fan of heavy metal bands Con- people from getting said guns. There is never involved in this discussion. Senator Rick Santorum CPAC Florida in Orlando, Florida. verge and Dillinger Escape Plan, will continue to be bump stocks on Where is the solution? Here we are. were often ignored. Eventually, hibition on selling games to minors, both acts known for their history of rifles regardless of what passes into Where is the solution?” these games caught the attention of where retailers could be heavily being aggressive and provocative. I law. However, I will argue the same It is, in my opinion, that neither researchers, advocacy groups, and fined for breaking the rules. There have also enjoyed playing first-per- in regards to enforcing further sanc- the left nor the right should wor- politicians from both the left and would also be an audit of retailers, son shooters and fighting games tions against entertainment. Ever ry about Hollywood or the gaming right. People were beginning to fear including possible “secret shop- such as "Doom" and "Mortal Kom- since I first played "Super Mario market. that this interactive medium was in- pers” who would pose as regular bat." If anything, I have enjoyed all Brothers" as a child and stomped First of all, the left has already fluencing violence in children. customers to see if stores were en- of these without feeling revved-up on monsters, and ever since I first tried enforcing entertainment cen- It was Senator Joe Lieberman forcing the regulations. This bill ul- to cause more violence afterwards. saw a spine ripped out from a man in sorship in the last few years with an (D-CT) who eventually rose to chal- timately failed to pass congress. If anything, I walk away feeling "Mortal Kombat," I have never felt online movement known as Gamer- lenge the violence in video games. Meanwhile, the ESRB has not relieved, after having let off some the urge to hurt someone, and I con- gate. This social justice-fueled bri- In 1993, along with Senator Herb simply remained rigid since they steam. tinue to feel this way today, even af- gade, led by feminist pundit Anita Kohl (D-WI), Lieberman began a first set the ground rules in 1994. Video games, just like movies, ter having killed several grown men Sarkeesian, has proven itself to be battle with the video game industry, Over the years, they have adapted sports, or many other hobbies, are in "Call of Duty," and after having a failure. declaring that they ought to either with the times. In 2005, they created a means of catharsis. Why don’t we shot so many Nazis in "Wolfenstein If we look back in time a little tighten down on enforcing their the E10+ category and today there play a round of "Call of Duty" and 3D." I can say the same for music further, however, we can again see own rating system, or risk govern- are 30 unique content ratings. They then decide kill our neighbor? Prob- and movies. I may feel the adrena- that the left has addressed contro- ment intervention. have also created public aware- ably because we were busy letting line, but not the bloodlust. versial entertainment in the past. In March, 1994, it was an- ness campaigns to inform parents. our energy out elsewhere, such as Sorry Rick, but if you want to In 1985, future Second Lady, Tip- nounced by the Entertainment Soft- Around that same time, both Europe when we work out, watch an action find a witch to hang, you are bark- per Gore helped start the Parent’s ware Association, that they would and Japan created their own rating movie, or write about violence in ing up the wrong tree. Instead of Music Resource Center (PMRC). form the Entertainment Software systems with multiple rating factors. video games. considering what is coming out of They were an organization aimed Rating Board (ESRB), which Sega, There is nothing to be afraid of You may still argue that games the madhouse, why don’t you focus at enforcing censorship in music Nintendo, and five other gam- in the entertainment world, apart like "Mortal Kombat" or "Dark more on the madhouse itself? that they deemed too controversial. ing companies agreed to comply from Hollywood and their obses- Souls" stir up a bloodlust. I would They created a list of 15 songs that with and use their new rating sys- sion with dull film remakes and argue that most of the aggression they thought should be banned from tem. The companies and the ESRB constant political virtue signaling. the radio. This list came to be known agreed that the ratings would not Talking-head Santorum is only us- as “The Filthy 15.” Many of these simply appear on the game’s pack- ing an old strawman target that pos- controversial musicians who were aging, but also in advertisements, es no threat. Aleathea Williams coming under fire, including Dee such as TV commercials. They also People like to point out high Snider and Frank Zappa, defended agreed to commit to a customer school shootings such as Virginia their freedom of speech, giving in- and retailer education campaign Tech, Sandy Hook, and most noto- Encourages Student famous testimonies. However, in the and to make the rating system easy riously, Columbine, and scapegoat end, the PMRC claimed a victory, enough for any consumer to under- these events as the result of violent when their campaign forced musi- stand. Furthermore, to address any media. After the 1999 Columbine Involvement cians to put parental advisory stick- game developers not in agreement shooting, people began blaming ers on albums that were too ‘edgy’ with the ESRB, many major retailers provocative entertainers such as Continued From Page 1 Latino. I have learned the difference for the kids. Ironically, this helped agreed not to accept unrated games. Marilyn Manson for influencing for minority students. I wanted between urban and ghetto … Ev- push album sales since this tactic Senator Lieberman knew that vi- the shooters to take action. How- to be a voice to interact with facul- erybody’s perception of urban and made it clear which albums had the olence in video games wasn’t going ever, upon further examination of ty and staff as well as increase my ghetto is different.” taboo content. away, and that it seemed inevitable shooters Eric Harris and Dylan involvement on UMSL's Campus." Working with a variety of stu- Meanwhile, if we go a little bit that the gore would only increase Klebold, we see that they were con- Getting into conversation about dents in her leadership positions, forward from there into the ear- over time. During that same year, in stantly bullied in school. In one epi- politics she explained why she loved she hopes that others can get in- ly 90’s, we arrive at a time where a July hearing in congress, he dis- sode prior to the shooting, they had her major so much. Williams said, “I volved on campus and learn. As a video games were becoming much cussed and showed footage of an up- been confronted by members of the can translate my passions into actu- leader she has been open minded more graphically complex. Because coming first-person shooter known school football team, who sprayed al work … I want to uplift my black likes to be balanced with opposing of this, games had the technology to as Doom, to stress this point. them with ketchup and mustard community.” She used former Presi- viewpoints, but she does not like clearly show images and actions that So, in regards to Rick Santorum’s while referring to them as “f*ggots” dent Barak Obama, who she believes it when people are not willing to weren’t limited to a handful of pix- criticism of violence in the media: and “queers.” was the best president the United learn and grow. She said, “I don’t els like in the past. The Sega Genesis firstly, it is apparent that he has no In 2000, an analysis by the U.S. States has had so far. She said, “No like people who are not willing to version of the fighting game "Mor- idea what he talking about when he Secret Service of 37 premeditated matter what people say about him, learn or that they are just fine with tal Kombat" was notorious for its criticizes the left for not taking ac- school shootings discovered some- he gave people of color a reason to being complacent in situations that graphic display of blood and guts. tion. And if you argue that my last thing shocking: it appeared that believe that they can hold an office doesn’t allow them to grow.” Meanwhile, Sega CD’s title Night example was from over two decades bullying played a significant motiva- that high.” In the years to come, she hopes Trap was pushing the envelope ago, we can go forward from 1994 to tional role in more than two-thirds Williams enjoys her education to still be growing intellectually, ei- with sexually-suggestive and violent 2005, when Lieberman joined Hil- of the attacks. on UMSL because she gets to be ther living in or maybe a scenes, using live-action footage. lary Clinton with goals to impose In a Gallup poll conducted in in a very diverse community and place that she has never lived be- In early 1993, Sega inserted their harsher sanctions in the industry, in 2012, asking Americans if certain learn from others. She said, “I have fore. She said, “I want to be living own rating system, in response to a bill that was known as the Family methods would help prevent school been wrapped in a cloud of support comfortably and doing something heat they had been receiving from Entertainment Protection Act. Un- shootings, two answers remained and challenges. I didn’t really have new.” the media. However, these ratings der this bill, there would be a pro- prominent: 53% thought that in- close friends that weren’t black or October 16, 2017 YOU AND A GUEST ARE INVITED TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING OF

For yourPROMO chance AD – BW to receive a passFULL BILLINGfor IStwo, N/L/T 25% emailTO TT 3 COL. (5.7") X 10.5" = 31.5" GEORGE CLOONEY ABOVE TT IS N/L/T 25% TO TT October 11, 2017 4:58 PM [email protected] with the subject line 04The Current and tell us your favorite George Clooney film.

*Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No purchase necessary. While supplies last. One admit-two pass per person. This film has been rated R by the MPAA. SuburbiconMovie.com IN THEATRES FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27