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This Book is brought to you for free and open access by the College Publications at Digital Commons @ Columbia College Chicago. It has been accepted for inclusion in Columbia Chronicle by an authorized administrator of Digital Commons @ Columbia College Chicago. Chicago’s Improv granddaddy celebrates 50 years of laughter » PAGE 20 CHECK OUT THE THE COLUMBIA MULTIMEDIA hronicle SECTION ONLINE c ON ColumbiaChronicle.com The Of cial News Source of Columbia College Chicago December 7, 2009 Volume 45 Number 14 THEWEB Politicians Manifest’s destiny question poll accuracy Controversial candidate may file lawsuit against respected polling agency

by Spencer Roush Assistant Metro Editor

ONE REPUBLICAN candidate running for President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat in the 2010 election is raising ques- tions about the accuracy of polls and how the results are being disseminated to the public. In fact, many Web sites on both sides of the partisan aisle, such as Demo- craticUnderground.com and FreeRepub- lic.com, claim to be leery of some polling Lenny Gilmore THE CHRONICLE results because of favoring one political Students show off hacked Manifest T-shirt ensembles, which were built under direction of the Spectacle Build Shop at a Manifest informational meeting on party over another or producing faulty Dec. 1 in the Film Row Cinema of the 1104 Center, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. results through poor questioning. As a result, poll numbers call for a Weeklong events geared ing students to professionals, show their Long said that unlike previous years, degree of scrutiny from every reader toward celebrating student wonderful talents and give them a forum this year the event will take place over and journalist who use the data for an work where they come together,” Kelly said. the course of three days starting on May article. It brings up a question of just how “We want to send our graduating students 11. Industry Night’s premiere events will accurate the polls are or if they are trying by Laura Nalin out with a bang and we want to make sure showcase performances by students in to skew public opinion. Andy Martin, a Assistant Campus Editor as they leave the Columbia community, dance, musical theater and theater and a perennial candidate running for Senate, they have this unique experience.” reception will follow their performances. called a few Illinois polls “bogus,” includ- EACH YEAR, Columbia hosts an annual However, the weeklong events don’t The second night will be hosted in the ing Rasmussen Reports, Patrick Hughes’ urban arts festival, Manifest, to showcase just cater to graduating seniors. Alumni new Media Production Center and will personal poll and Mark Kirk’s poll. the graduating students’ and alumni’s events will also be held. Some of the showcase work by the Film and Video Kirk and Hughes are both running body of work. The six-day-long celebra- events include an a bazaar where former Department along with the Television against Martin for a place in the U.S. Senate. tion will include Industry Night and students can exhibit or sell their work, an and Broadcast Journalism departments. On Oct. 12, 2008, the New York Times will culminate with Manifest and senior alumni lounge and an alumni reception The fi nal night will feature a reception published an article on its Web site that graduation parties to bring the creative to make sure that they still feel at home for all industry guests and will hold panel states Martin was involved in many polit- community of the college together. within the community. Kelly said these discussions and portfolio reviews by pro- ical controversies, including having been An informational meeting was held on events are held to ensure the alums feel fessionals. a primary source of rumors surrounding Dec. 1 to discuss the plans for the 2010 reconnected to the community and that Bruce Sheridan, chair of the Film and Obama’s citizenship. Some say he poses commencement week. The meeting was creative spirit remains part of the creative Video Department, said that he is eager a valid question however: What’s the held in the Film Row Cinema of the 1104 nation of alumni. to use the new Media Production Center threshold a political candidate needs to Center, 1104 S. Wabash Ave., and featured Industry Night, hosted by the Portfolio for the upcoming events to show the stu- pass in order to be included in polls? design contest winner, Landry Miller, fac- Center, will begin May 13, 2010. The event dents’ work. According to Martin, he has been left ulty and sta members along with Stu- will give the graduating students a chance “Two things we need to introduce to out of Rasmussen Reports’ polls, which dent Government Association’s President to present their portfolios, hand out their industry are clear,” Sheridan said. “We makes him look like a non-contender. Jessica Valerio. resumes and business cards and network need to display the grounding that the Martin said he is the only other candidate Mark Kelly, vice president of Student with working professionals in their fi eld. students get at this school, which is besides Kirk who has ever run for o ce A airs, said he believes the college has a Tim Long, the executive director of Career deeper than any trade school education, and should be considered an option in sacred responsibility to showcase gradu- Initiatives and director of the Portfolio and emphasize that our students are by polling questions. ating student work and Manifest is the Center, said this year’s Industry Night will defi nition, ‘creative.’ Whether they are Martin said he has sent two letters, one perfect way to do so. work a bit di erently than last year’s. “We need to be connecting graduat- » SEE MANIFEST, PG. 8 » SEE POLL, PG. 36

Post-Vegetarians U of C graffi ti INDEX Speak Up book CAMPUS 2 Who’s your Senator? H&F 11 A&C 15 COMMENTARY 28 » SEE PG. 11 » SEE PG. 17 » SEE PG. 32 H&F A&C METRO METRO 31 2 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

EDITOR’S NOTE NEWS FLASH

Lacking the true meaning 12/8/09

Inspired by a I have pretended to be too busy to put up Dodgeball 2009 question posed a tree or too tired to go out shopping—but by one of my co- surely I love Christmas, I would tell myself, Dodgeball Tournament benefiting the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. Guests workers, I set out I’m just not in the spirit yet. are asked to make a donation of $2 or a new toy donation. The event will be last week to write a But here is the cold, hard truth. I hate held from 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Free food will be provided from Chipotle and Lou column filled with what the holiday season has become in Malnati’s. Free giveaways, raffles and live music by Ghosthouse DJs (Jimmy Con, reasons why I love America. Instead of bickering about who’s A.D.D) and will feature an after show by the Mathletes. the holiday season. going to host the holidays, what kind of 1212 S. Plymouth Court After a discussion cookies we are going to bake, how early we by Bethany Reinhart about why she’s have to leave to make it to Christmas Eve 12/9/09 Editor-in-Chief a scrooge, my co- Mass on time or where we should go to look worker asked what at the best holiday lights, I would rather put Art/Activists Yoga Workshop the holidays mean to me. For a person with my energy toward a more worthy cause. Not A yoga workshop by yogi master Michael McColly will be held in the dance center rather candid opinions who usually doesn’t to say that my family isn’t worthy—they through the student organization Art/Activism. The workshop will highlight the shy away from a debate, I found myself are, more so than any family I know. But importance of inner peace and will aim toward energy renewal. It will be held momentarily speechless. What do the holi- I think a more worthy cause would be an from 4 p.m. - 6p.m. days mean to me? orphan in Uganda who doesn’t know what Images embedded in my brain for years Christmas is, but would probably love some suddenly flooded my mind. Christmas Eve clean water or to have someone splurge on The Dance Center, room 202 Mass, traditional breakfast with my family, a gift like a toothbrush. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. peppermint hot chocolate, wrapping the I would love to see what would happen if family cat in tissue paper, counting the for just one week we took all of the money through 12/11/09 presents that Santa brought me and so on. it costs to light Christmas lights across Surely with all of the thoughts running the country and instead used that money Weisman Award Exhibition through my head I should easily be able to to heat classrooms in Ukraine, provide fill a column with the reasons why I love the educational materials to impoverished Winners of the Albert P. Weisman Award display their completed projects in all holidays and exactly what they mean to me. children in the Philippines or purchase fields of communication and multiple disciplines. The exhibition runs through However, as I sat down and started to type, medical supplies for people dying of AIDS in Dec. 11. The gallery is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. the thoughts didn’t flow nearly as freely South Africa. as they should have. In fact, I struggled to If we stepped back and thought a bit The Arcade string together a single convincing para- more about what the holidays should mean 618 S. Michigan Ave. Building graph about how wonderful the holidays are. instead of what they have come to mean, Sure, I could regurgitate what the holiday maybe we could eventually get ourselves through 2/13/10 should be. But the problem is that what back on the right track. they should be and what they are in America Until then, the best Christmas gift I could “Dis/Believer: Intersections of Science and are two very different scenarios. In the end, ask for is a plane ticket to Uganda, where I I concluded that I actually don’t like the could teach a child to read, to comb their Religion in Contemporary Art” holiday season in America at all. Although hair and to brush their teeth. On a holiday I don’t consider myself to be a scrooge, I that is supposed to be all about giving, “Dis/Believer” is an exhibition of art expressing the commonly conflicting ele- do think that Christmas in America has maybe I could find a way to give some- ments of science and religion. The Glass Curtain Gallery is open from 9 a.m. - 5 become a false representation of the true thing that is a bit less Hallmark and a lot p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and F meaning of the holidays. more everlasting. The realization hit me rather hard. For Glass Curtain Gallery, 1104 Center years I have faked my love for Christmas. [email protected] 1104 S. Wabash Ave. through 2/13/10 STAFF “At Close Distance: Labyrinth of Self” Management Web Bethany Reinhart Editor-in-Chief Kevin Lilienthal Webmaster “At Close Distance” explores how the concept of home reinforces the sense of Jazzy Davenport Managing Editor self. It is the path of separation, the coming and going that creates and shapes Photo identity and memory. Located in the C33 Gallery from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Campus Lenny Gilmore Senior Photo Editor Benita Zepeda Campus Editor Andy Keil Photo Editor C33 Gallery Laura Nalin Oriana Riley Assistant Campus Editor Photo Editor 33 E. Congress Parkway Building Ciara Shook Assistant Campus Editor Graphics Arts & Culture Dana LaCoco Senior Graphic Designer through 2/13/10 Colin Shively Arts & Culture Editor Erik Rodriguez Graphic Designer Mina Bloom Assistant Arts & Culture Editor Zack Anderson Graphic Designer Katherine Gamby Assistant Arts & Culture Editor Lisa Danielson Graphic Designer “Framed: The World of Comics” Cody Prentiss Assistant Arts & Culture Editor Multimedia “Framed” is an exhibition of comic book art and comic-inspired murals and Metro Cristina Aguirre Multimedia Editor installations created by Columbia students. As part of the exhibition, students Patrick Smith Assistant Metro Editor Chris Ramirez Assistant Multimedia Editor from Keith Pitts and Jacqueline Penrod’s set design classes will be designing Spencer Roush Assistant Metro Editor and constructing stage sets. The exhibition will be located in the Hokin Gallery Advertising from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Commentary Kris Bass Advertising Account Executive Lauren Kelly Commentary Editor Ren Lahvic Advertising Account Executive Hokin Gallery, Wabash Campus Building 623 S. Wabash Ave. Copy Senior Staff Emi Peters Copy Chief Chris Richert General Manager Melody Gordon Copy Editor Jim Sulski Co-Faculty Adviser Want to see your Columbia-related event mentioned in News Flash? Amber Meade Copy Editor Jeff Lyon Co-Faculty Adviser Contact The Chronicle at (312) 369-8999. Health & Fitness Operations Taylor Norris Assistant Health & F itness Editor Kevin Obomanu Operations Manager Jeff Graveline Assistant Health & Fitness Editor

The Chronicle is a student-produced publication of Columbia College Views expressed in this publication are those of the writer and are The Chronicle Campus: (312) 369-8964 Chicago and does not necessarily represent, in whole or in part, the not the opinions of The Chronicle, Columbia’s Journalism Department 33 E. Congress Parkway, Suite 224 Metro: (312) 369-8963 views of college administrators, faculty or students. or Columbia College Chicago. Chicago, IL. 60605-1996 Arts & Culture: (312) 369-8969 Commentary: (312) 369-8981 All text, photos and graphics are the property of The Chronicle and Letters to the editor must include full name, year, major and phone Main line: (312) 369-8999 Copy: (312) 369-8974 may not be reproduced or published without written permission. number. All letters are edited for grammar and may be cut due to a Advertising: (312) 369-8984 Photo: (312) 369-8976 limit of space.The Chronicle holds the right to limit any one person’s Newsroom Fax: (312) 369-8430 Health & Fitness: (312) 369-8982 Editorials are the opinions of the Editorial Board of The Chronicle. submissions to three per semester. www.columbiachronicle.com Permission/Reproductions: (312) 369-8955 Columns are the opinions of the author(s). Letters can be faxed to (312) 369-8430, General Manager: (312) 369-8955 e-mailed to [email protected] or mailed to Co-Faculty Adviser: (312) 369-8954 The Chronicle, 33 E. Congress Parkway, Suite 224 Co-Faculty Adviser: (312) 369-8956 Chicago, IL. 60605-1996. CAMPUS I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 3

Holly Jolly Trolley Food Drive spreads holiday cheer Columbia’s WCRX, Radio Department host 7th annual fundraising initiative by Ciara Shook Assistant Campus Editor

IF THE entire student body, which com- prises more than 11,000 people, were to donate just $1 or a single canned food item, it would be “incredible” in the pres- ent economic climate, according to Cheryl Morton-Langston, director of Columbia’s WCRX radio station. WCRX 88.1 FM and the Radio Depart- ment will host their 7th annual Holly Jolly Trolley Food Drive on Dec. 10 and will be accepting donations for the Great- er Chicago Food Depository. The event will feature a trolley parked on Wabash Avenue filled with nonperishable items, and will host a slew of events throughout the day in the lobby of the 33 E. Congress Parkway Building. “You’ll know that it’s here when you see the big, red Holly Jolly Trolley parked outside on Wabash,” said Tony Kwiecinski, station supervisor for WCRX. Courtesy CHERYL MORTON-LANGSTON Langston said the Holly Jolly Trolley WCRX crew members stand in front of last year’s Holly Jolly Trolley. The trolley will be parked on Wabash Avenue, outside the 33 E. Congress Parkway Building. Food Drive came to fruition when she found a student at WCRX who was a driver cians and local icons, a silent auction, an for a trolley company in Chicago. ice cream eating contest compliments of “We were brainstorming one day, trying Dairy Queen and a bake sale. to come up with something that would be “We kind of think of it as a festival,” a tradition at the college—our fixture,” Langston said. “We hope it is.” Langston said. “Tony and I both felt that it The station will be on air from 8 a.m. was really important for students to find to 5 p.m., with student DJs emceeing the a way to give back and what better way event. WCRX will broadcast live sets from than to have a food deposit.” a broad range of bands. Throughout the years, the Holly Jolly Local faces and politicians are slated Trolley Food Drive has evolved from a to drop by, including Secretary of State donations initiative into a holiday event, Jesse White, Ald. Robert Fioretti of the and this year will feature guest musi- 2nd Ward, the Loop Alliance, WCIU morn- ing host Jeanne Sparrow and Columbia’s CAMPUS POLL President Warrick L. Carter. “[Carter] is a huge supporter,” Langston What are you doing to prepare for finals? said. “He’s helped make Holly Jolly bigger. He always brings over about 15 to 20 “I’ve just been bags of groceries.” hitting the library A silent auction will be held, during a lot. Nowhere else which participants can bid on items Courtesy CHERYL MORTON-LANGSTON can get me focused.” such as certificates to the Melting Pot, Ann Sathers and Lettuce Entertain You The WCRX Wheel of Fun (above) offers prizes such as DVDs, CDs and passes to various Chicago attractions. restaurants, as well as tickets to the House Jermane Hall of Blues Chicago World Famous Gospel er to help provide food for those who may Drive, WCRX and the Radio Department Sophomore, film and Brunch and a one-night stay at Hotel Sax. not be able to afford a holiday meal. have raised more than $25,000 and col- video major “It’s fun to see how everybody starts lected more than 3,000 pounds of food really getting together,” Langston said. for donation. “I’ve just been “For instance, Matt [Palumbo]’s mom is “If every person gave just $1, think of making sure I get baking something like 150 cookies so we how much money we’d be able to raise,” all my work done If every person gave just $1, can sell them, and all the proceeds go to Langston said. “One dollar, one can of food ahead of time and think of how much money we’d the Greater Chicago [Food Depository].” would be incredible. It’s that time of year, trying not to pro- be able to raise. One dollar, one Students of the Radio Department and and I think people feel they should give crastinate. I’m also can of food would be incredible.” the radio station worked to obtain the back a little.” Sandra Hamer making sure I get donations from the local businesses for Kwiecinski said that if someone gives a Junior, advertising enough sleep.” -Cheryl Morton-Langston the silent auction and WCRX Wheel of Fun. little, they can get a lot in return. major “It’s a lot of fun and it’s low effort “How many people have those cans of for people to come by,” said Antionette soup they bought that are just sitting The day will also feature a prize wheel, Woolard, a junior radio major. “We put a in their cabinet they probably might the WCRX Wheel of Fun, in which people lot of effort into it so nobody else has to. not ever get to?” Kwiecinski said. “Just “Just a lot of paper can participate with a small monetary All you have to do is give a little.” bring it in.” work, basically. I donation. The Wheel of Fun will have Alpha Baking Company, which has All events will be held in the lobby of the have a lot of reports DVDs, CDs, T-shirts, key chains, WCRX participated in the food drive for the 33 E. Congress Parkway Building, and the and projects to do, apparel and gift certificates to attrac- past seven years, is also donating a large trolley will be parked outside the building so I’m pretty much tions throughout Chicago, such as Brook- sum of bagels to sell that day. Proceeds alongside the curb of Wabash Avenue, with taking each week as field Zoo and the Museum of Science will be donated to the Greater Chicago radio and WCRX students accepting food and Chris Ross it comes.” and Industry. Food Depository. monetary donations. Senior, advertising Langston said the best thing about the Langston said that since the incep- major food drive is that everybody comes togeth- tion of the Holly Jolly Trolley Food [email protected] 4 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 College Council wraps up fall semester Group dubs new chair, graduate programs. discusses retention, “The GPC wants to take a leadership role in graduate studies that process and begin to articulate what we feel the priorities for the college of our gradu- by Ciara Shook ate education should be,” Abell said. Assistant Campus Editor In response to the graduate programs at the college, Rose Economou, associate IN A speedy College Council meeting on Dec. professor of journalism, inquired about 4, general announcements were made with graduate tuition. a review of Columbia’s graduate programs “Students are asking me how much is a and retention reports at the forefront of credit hour for our graduate program,” Econo- the discussion. mou said. “What is it now and what is it going The council was led by Hope Dan- to go up to?” iels, associate professor of Radio and Love, vice president for Academic Affairs, vice president of College Council on said there is no flat cost for all graduate stu- the eighth floor of the 1104 Center, 1104 dents, but it is determined on a program-by- S. Wabash Ave. program basis. The council elected sole candidate Arvis After a study looking at peer institutions, Averette, instructor of Humanities, His- Love found that Columbia’s graduate educa- tory and Social Sciences, as the new chair tion is “underpriced.” of College Council. Averette is replacing “We talked about bringing the tuition up former chair Kevin Fuller, associate profes- and doing differential tuition program by sor of the Science and Math Department. program,” Love said. “But the thought is just Fuller was arrested last month on charges of Lenny Gilmore THE CHRONICLE a start since we haven’t had time to consult child pornography. Vice President of Student Affairs Mark Kelly speaks before College Council on Dec. 4. Kelly is working to enough with the programs.” As stated in a retention report by Mark improve the retention and graduation rate of students who enroll at Columbia. Love said it was first proposed to have a Kelly, vice president of Student Affairs, the 10 percent increase in graduate tuition graduation rate at Columbia improved by a On the negative side, Columbia’s “It’s an incredibly complex issue,” Kelly in 2011, but that produced insurmount- 40 percent from 1999 to 2005. graduation rate is one of the lowest of said. “We’re not sure where it’s going to go, able concern among the chairs of depart- “The improvement is based on two things: private colleges in Illinois and in the but we think, organically, we’re going to learn ments about current students’ situations, one, according to the student satisfaction country, Kelly said. from each other and we’ll be in a better place.” and the chairs later preferred a 5 percent survey, we do a far better job of supporting Kelly proposed the Retention Discussion Jeff Abell, associate professor of Inter- proposed increase. our students,” Kelly said. “Second, the student group, in which he joins Louise Love and the disciplinary Arts and spokesman for the College Council’s next meeting will be Feb. 6, 2010 characteristics have changed dramatically. We deans of the three schools to form a com- Graduate Policy Council, announced at 10 a.m. in the 1104 Center, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. now have the characteristics of a college with mittee to review Columbia’s retention and to the board the GPC’s concern about moderate selectivity.” graduation rate. Columbia’s acknowledgement of its [email protected]

The Music Center of Columbia College Chicago 1014 S. Michigan at 11th St.

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Monday December 7 Jazz Guitar Ensemble II in Concert 12:00 PM Blues Ensemble I Concert 7:00 PM

Tuesday December 8 Groove Band in Concert 12:00 PM

Wednesday December 9 Jazz Guitar Ensemble I in Concert 12:00 PM Pop Rock Ensemble: Showcase in Concert 7:00 PM CCC Woman’s Chorus and The New Music Ensemble in Concert at The Sherwood 7:00 PM

Thursday December 10 Latin Jazz Ensemble in Concert 12:00 PM Pop Jazz Fusion Ensemble in Concert 7:00 PM Counterpoint Recital at The Sherwood 7:00 PM

Friday December 11 Columbia College Jazz Ensemble in Concert 12:00 PM Jazz Combo Fest 4:00 PM Primary Piano Concert at The Sherwood 7:30 PM

All events are free. For more info: 312-369-6300

CAMPUS I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 5

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Teresa Puente: Nobody in my family Another class that we’re trying to get o the Once a month, The Chronicle pro- had ever been a journalist. In fact, my big ground for the spring is called the World of les people on campus who are doing sister was the fi rst one to go to college. So Ethnic Media, which is to expose students interesting or important things. it wasn’t a career I really knew anything to the diversity of ethnic press. For me, just We’re always watching for faculty, about at all, but as a kid I always loved read- promoting the diversity of coverage and staff and students with a story to tell. ing. If you read a lot, it helps you develop covering diverse communities is what I Here’s someone you should know. strong writing skills. So in high school, an think is a real key part of who I am as a English teacher pointed out to me that, journalist and who I am as an educator. by Benita Zepeda “Hey you know, you’re a good writer, you Campus Editor should try out for the newspaper or the The Chronicle: What grant did you get for yearbook.” So I applied for the yearbook Latina Voices? TERESA PUENTE, 42, is an assistant professor and became a yearbook writer and then the and director of News Reporting and Writ- editor, so I really caught the journalism bug TP: J-LAB is the Institute for Interactive ing in Columbia’s Journalism Department. in high school. Journalism, and they fund a lot of new Recently, Puente was given a grant from media type projects. They have this grant J-LAB, an organization run by McCormick The Chronicle: What do you hope to bring every year called New Media Women Entre- Foundation, for her year-old Web site, to your students? preneurs, and I was one of the three people Latina Voices. While maintaining her blogs, to get it the fi rst year. They give a grant for teaching aspiring writers and working on TP: I think one of the key words that I try a woman to do a new media start-up, and her own creative works, Puente dedicates to promote is diversity. That is an impor- they are funded by the McCormick Founda- Courtesy OMAR CASTILLO her life to promoting ethnic diversity and tant value to me a journalist—writing about tion in Chicago, so that was the grant that I Teresa Puente creates awareness of ethnic issues awareness. ethnic communities and promote diver- got to start the Web site, and then I got the through her work, her blog and in the classroom. sity. And I think now that I have become idea to start the class out of it. So I’m still The Chronicle: How did you get started an educator that translates into some of the trying to grow it and most of the writers in journalism? classes I have created. have been students at Columbia or women » SEE SYSK, PG. 8 GET CASH BOOKS

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144_WBB09 CAMPUS I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 7 Electronic textbooks launch efficiency

Schools nationwide participate launch CourseSmart—a company that yet come. Students and faculty may tap in e-book project, publishers provides electronic versions of popular online resources for supplemental read- seek company to lower costs titles. The firm now offers subscriptions ing, but usually not for textbooks. It can Patricia Alex to nearly 7,500 textbook titles on 6,000 be cumbersome to read a textbook online MCT Newswire campuses nationwide. The subscriptions given that many are slightly enhanced last anywhere from a semester to a year PDFs of hard copies, said Charlie Schmidt, IT MAY be one of the last frontiers of the and cost less than half of what it does to spokesman for the National Association of digital download: A generation that gets buy a new book, according to the com- College Stores. its music, news and other information off pany. The texts can be downloaded on The Kindle pilot has received a luke- the Internet is still lugging around heavy, computers and iPhones. warm reception from many students expensive hardcover textbooks. Sales are up 600 percent this year over who still prefer to highlight hard copies Other options—such as electronic text- last, said Frank Lyman, vice president and make their own notes (not to men- books, book rentals and Internet shopping at CourseSmart. tion doodles) in the margins. Even those for used books—are increasingly available “That tells me it’s finding traction with taking online courses often still rely on and growing wildly, but the lion’s share students,” Lyman said. “There is so much hardcover texts. of textbooks are still bought new and at research and reading online that it’s fairly BookRenter.com, which launched in retail, according to industry analysts. seamless to go to textbooks. It will build 2007, reported a 300 percent leap in cus- The average new textbook costs $57, as the word gets out … This is a year where tomers this fall and now claims to serve but most undergraduates can summon awareness is expanding very rapidly.” more than 40,000 students. an anecdote about having paid $200, $300 Some e-textbooks are just digital ver- Rental books can cost about a third and even $400 for a required book. Stu- sions of hard copies. But increasingly, the of a new textbook, but the idea is lim- dents spend an average of about $700 a e-books are being designed with the latest ited by the realities of the market. year on course materials, according to the bells and whistles, allowing students to For the rental scheme to be profit- National Association of College Stores. Stock Photo mark up and highlight pages or view able, faculty members have to agree to Rutgers University senior Katie Gattuso New e-books can be downloaded on computers and videos. Some even feature a type of social adopt the same version of a book for iPhones. Amazon Kindle is also an option for students. said she has vaguely heard about less- network to share notes and comments four to six semesters, Schmidt said. expensive options like e-texts. easier—and often quicker—to go to the with classmates. That doesn’t always happen, although “I’ve actually never seen anybody using campus bookstore, especially if Mom A half-dozen schools nationwide, schools are encouraging faculty to do so them,” Gattuso said. Professors haven’t pro- and Dad are paying. Then there is no including Princeton, are participating in when possible. moted the new options, and she said she’s worry that the edition will be outdated a pilot project this year that offers text- “Students are still frustrated by the seen no advertising for e-books on campus. or the format difficult, a complaint with books delivered on Amazon’s new, larger pricing, but technology is evolving,” Ryan “You kind of just take your professor’s some e-textbooks. However, cheaper alter- screen Kindle DX, and Sony has released said. “I see a day when a kid will buy a word and go to the bookstore and buy it,” natives are poised for growth. an e-book reader that can download Kindle and rent whatever they need.” Gattuso said. The country’s five largest textbook textbooks wirelessly. Indeed, for many students it’s just publishers worked together in 2007 to Still, it’s an idea whose time has not [email protected] 8 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

xx PUENTE think that I have played the role of helping xx MANIFEST and to keep it as interactive as we can,” bring more multimedia into our curriculum. Miller said. “If you still don’t like it, Continued from PG. 6 It was my idea to put Flip videos in Report- Continued from Front Page then maybe it’s your fault,” he joked. ing and Writing II and Feature Writing class. Miller conceptualized develop- in Chicago. So my goal is to see how I can grow Next semester is a Multimedia Feature Writ- a director, producer or sound record- ing shapes and a color palette so the it. ing class, so I kind of see myself as a lot about er, whatever it is they’re doing is a design can be customizable for anyone diversity and new media. I feel like I am creative enterprise.” who wants to involve themselves in The Chronicle: And you have other blogs? achieving those goals. Each year, students are asked to vote for the designing. I guess in terms of professional or creative an artist to design the Manifest T-shirts. Landry said how the design is going TP: Latina Voices is basically a Web site with goals, it would be to turn the blog, either Landry Miller, a graphic design major, to be executed will change. He said online commentary and features. The blog Latina Voices or Chicanísima, into a book—a had a new vision for this year’s design. that although small things like color that I have is with ChicagoNow, and they really collection of columns. I am writing a travel Unlike before, the students will get a scheme will change, the approach will launched at the end of May. My blog is called memoir, about my experience living in Mexico chance to collaborate with him and give remain the same. He asked attendees if Chicanisima. So where Latina Voices is about because in 2002, I quit The Tribune and moved suggestions as to what they want to see in they have any ideas to make the process promoting the next generation of Latina writ- to Mexico for four years, and then I came back order to make the event what it is really more interactive or any other input they ers, ChicagoNow and my Chicanísima blog is to Chicago to start working at Columbia, so I is about: the students. have to contact him. really my take on the news and opinions. It’s was a reverse migrant. I went back to Mexico Valerio reflected on when she was con- my voice and my blog, so I am the only one that over 100 years after my grandfather had left sidering her decision as to whether or writes for it, where as Latina Voices is to publish and so where you hear stories of people head- not to apply to Columbia. She said that as other writers. I write about Latino issues, but ing north, I went south. So I am writing a book soon as she saw the two-minute Manifest that is a huge, broad issue. It’s something like about that. We need to display the grounding video, she knew she wanted to be a part of as a blogger, I am an online columnist/opinion that the students get at this school, the community. writer. I do a lot of reporting in my blog, but it is The Chronicle: Do you think that going to which is deeper than any trade “Manifest is one guaranteed event clearly opinion. I write about immigration, but online mediums and blogs is the way we school education and emphasize students can tangibly see their role I also write about national and international need to go? that our students are by definition, and influence on the art world and issues. Some of it is harder edged, but I try to ‘creative.’ Whether they are a direc- visually place themselves in a working have a balance with things that are more pop TP: I think so, it’s obviously trying times in environment,” Valerio said. “The sup- culture or culture. So really, it’s a blog about the world of media. However, I also am very tor, producer or sound recorder, port of faculty, staff, the administra- Latino Affairs from politics to culture. optimistic about the future of journalism whatever it is they’re doing is a tion and the people that have walked us because I think kind of what blogs like Latina creative enterprise.” through our college experience is truly The Chronicle: Where do you see yourself Voices are a lot about entrepreneurial jour- -Bruce Sheridan critical in helping us celebrate that role, going? Do you have an overall goal as far as nalism because of the Internet. There is so leading us off into our own state.” personal career and an educator? much opportunity for voices that might not For more information on Manifest or any of otherwise ever be heard. “This idea is to get as many people the week’s events, visit Colum.edu/Manifest. TP: As an educator, I am proud for helping involved as we can so that it’s more dif- our curriculum become more diverse. Also, I [email protected] ficult to point the finger at one person, [email protected] CAMPUS I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 9

of local and global listeners? I’m not asking my students to boycott the media; I’m just asking them to think carefully and inde- pendently about what they are presented, and I want them to apply that to all the kinds of texts they encounter in formal and informal settings. It can be a lonely exercise and one that is likely to test their comfortable assumptions and even rock their worlds. If I expect that of my students, I should think expect no less of myself. So when I recently focused my criti- SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE cal thinking lens on my Christian faith, I was shaken. Up until about a year ago, I had wallowed in that age-old assumption My faith: shaken, that the Bible is one of those untouchable monuments that you stare at reverential- ly. I grew used to hearing those passages, not stirred not really thinking deeply about them fiction because there is some unwritten law that True/Believer: if you question the Bible, your Christian- Critical Encounters’ personal ity is compromised. So all these years, I’d narratives on Fact & Faith been a critical thinker about everything except my reading of the Bible. I had never by Stephanie Shonekan delved deeper than a gentle scratching of Assistant Professor the surface. I began to recognize that just as the hyp- writing AS AN associate professor of ethnomusi- notic rhythms of pop culture can draw a cology and Black World Studies, my most lethargic reaction, the harsh immovable If you’re creative and interested in story important goal is not just to convey knowl- structures of religion can engender a edge about my areas of expertise, but to spirit of complacency. Inspired by what I and writing, check out the Fiction Writing encourage the basic human act of critical expected of my students—independent and Department. Courses will improve writing, thinking. While it is important to convey critical thinking—and convinced that the and contextualize information about the wonderful intellect that makes us question reading, speaking, listening, and creative history, the aesthetics, the art and culture and critique the world around us is indeed of the black world, my ultimate mission is a gift from God, I picked up my text—a new problem solving skills. to nudge my students to develop the skill version I had discovered called The Message and the ability to really think analytically, Bible—and began to read again. refl exively and thoughtfully about what At fi rst, the new questions tapped gently Useful for every major! they read, watch or hear. In other words, on my conscience and as I dug deeper, those I want them to acquire and domesticate questions tugged determinedly at the veil the art of critical thinking as a part of their that had covered my critical gaze into the For information about Fiction Writing classes, intellectual repertoire. Bible for so many years: Why is there a After they leave my class, I want them to cold edge to some of the stories? Where visit the Fiction Writing Department, 12th floor, be able to watch a blockbuster fi lm, listen is the voice of the women? And my biggest 624 S. Michigan, or call (312) 369-7611. to that “hot” new track on the radio and question—why are some of the stories so read the breaking news headlines with a antithetical to the compassionate nature *You can add classes online until 12 midnight studious eye and a critical ear that inter- of the God I have come to know and love? 1.30.10 on Oasis. See your department advisor rogates all the layers of meaning that are My musings have led me to the conclusion embedded in all the subliminal messages that the Bible was indeed inspired by God, with questions. that surround us every day. but written by human beings—the same For example, I want my students to know species that write the histories, the litera- that we may be consumers of pop culture, ture, the screenplays and the rap songs we but we do not have to be consumed by it. We question in all our critical readings of texts, Classes available in: can taste it, chew it and digest it carefully, art and media. •Short Stories and we can certainly learn to spit out the This experience of critically thinking junk that will do our system no good. This, about my own Christianity has shaken me, •Novels to me, is what scholarship and academia but miraculously, it has not stirred doubt should embody. I have come to realize into my faith. Critically thinking about •Creative Nonfiction that learning to apply the skill to critically the Bible has been refreshing and reassur- •Playwriting think about the world around us may be an ing. I treasure the Bible as the document uncomfortable experience for individuals that serves as a chronicle of my faith, but I •Script Forms who have lived life at face value. Why can’t have moved to a better place that embraces we just simply enjoy the music? Christianity not as a religion, but as a lived A good place to start is Fiction 1 Some of my students insist that a rap faith. Because if faith is the belief in the song might be crude and misogynistic, but unseen, I have chosen to believe in the Writing Workshop. it sure has a good beat. So I encourage them character of God. The God I know delights to get behind the beat, to interrogate “the in watching me critically think about my See http://www.colum.edu/Academics/Fiction_ text.” Who is making the music? Who is world and my place in it. Writing/Program/Overview.php for more information. profi ting from it? What are the larger social consequences of the lyrics on a generation [email protected] THE ONCHECK US OUT WEB www.columbiachronicle.com 10 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

The WCRX “Holly Jolly Trolley” Food Drive & Broadcast 7th Annual Food Drive to Benefit e Greater Chicago Food Depository ursday, December 10th 8:00am until 5:00pm WCRX 88.1FM Live Broadcast 33 East Congress Lobby Help us fill the WCRX “Holly Jolly Trolley” for Chicago’s hungry this holiday season with non-perishable food items or canned goods. Enjoy music, games, holiday treats and Santa! For more information, please call 312 369 8155 or email [email protected]

Special Guests Include: Dr. Warrick L. Carter, President of Columbia College Chicago Bob Fioretti, 2nd Ward Alderman Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State Jeanne Sparrow - WCIU-TV

Ed Curran - WBBM TV

Je Joniak - Chicago Bears Announcer

Silent Auction Items Include: Apple iPod House of Blues Gospel Brunch

Gi Certificates: ABT Electronics Dominick’s Finer Foods Hotel Sax Chicago Melting Pot Restaurant Chicago Botanic Garden Alpha Baking Company Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant

WWW.WCRX.NET

Radio Department

School of Media Arts HEALTH & FITNESS I DECEMEBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 11

Jazz’d Up

12/9/09 Tiger’s bedroom bogey Chicago Blackhawks vs. New York Rangers I THINK I speak for are unfaithful. As not just a high-profile most when I say that athlete but a billion-dollar man, Woods The Chicago Blackhawks will face off against the New York Rangers at the United Center in I was shocked by the should have been more intelligent than to National Hockey League action. The Rangers and Hawks are both part of the “Original Six,” Tiger Woods saga leave a trail of evidence. There is no reason which are teams that were part of the NHL during its introduction in 1942 through the NHL that appears to be that the woman should have been able to expansion in 1967. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. and the game can be seen on Comcast never-ending. release text and voicemail messages that SportsNet. What started as a could incriminate him. Woods should have minor car crash has known that given the right price, most United Center turned into a series women would admit the affair. 1901 W. Madison St. by Jazzy Davenport of events that could Woods has not only jeopardized his 12/10/09 Managing Editor possibly cloud the family and career, but he has jeopardized flawless career that his reputation and his legacy too. As the Chicago Bulls vs. Woods has spent a lifetime perfecting. highest-paid athlete of all time and a black Boston Celtics Since the car accident, there has been man who has based his career solely on per- speculation that Woods was a victim of fection, he should’ve known that he was a The Chicago Bulls are at home against the perennial powerhouse Boston Celtics. The Celtics domestic violence by his wife. Additionally, target and that many people were waiting have averaged 99 points per game this season, while the Bulls have only managed 91 points more than three women have been accused for him to slip up, and he did—big time. per game. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. and the game can be seen on Comcast SportsNet or heard on of engaging in extramarital affairs with Truth is, he is human. I am disappointed, ESPN AM 1000. Woods. There have been both text messages simply because I thought he was smarter, released and audio from voicemail messag- not because I expected him to be perfect. United Center es that undeniably matches Woods’ voice. I’m sure Woods is embarrassed and would 1901 W. Madison St. If you’ve ever heard Woods speak, you rather deal with these issues in private, immediately know that it is him on the hence the name of his yacht, Privacy. How- 12/13/09 audio.He started the voicemail by saying ever, because of his irresponsible behavior, Chicago Bears vs. “Hey, it’s Tiger.” Because of the tabloid he is forced to deal with his personal issues Green Bay Packers frenzy, Woods released a statement in publicly. I am just grateful that he will live recent days admitting his “transgressions” to tell the story because infidelity and irre- and “personal failings.” sponsibility have often resulted in death, The Green Bay Packers come to Solider Field to take on the Chicago Bears in an NFC North However I, unlike many, was not upset most recently in the case of Steve McNair. game. The last time the Bears faced the Packers in week one of the NFL season, Jay Cutler about Woods’ infidelity, though he never Woods’ biggest obstacle will be finding a threw four interceptions on the way to a 21-15 Bears loss. Kickoff is at noon on FOX and can clarified what his transgressions were and way to steer the media’s attention away also be heard on WBBM 780 AM. has not blatantly admitted his unfaithful- from his front lawn and back to the place ness. I am more disappointed in the way he where he has no flaws—the green. Soldier Field cheated. Though I do not condone infidelity, 1410 Museum Campus Drive I realize that the vast majority of athletes [email protected]

“It was an authenticity thing,” said Brett around the scene made the diet seem viable Marlow, a 2009 Columbia graduate, on why and unlike any other fad. he started to eat meat again. A life adventure forced Cox to reconsider Marlow said he began eating only veg- his choice to be a vegan and he stressed it Those etarian food in response to his family’s high wasn’t a simple choice. why some vegetarians rate of obesity and heart disease. He also Cox said that he believes as people age and vegans begin to said that controlling his diet was part of and mature, it’s the gray areas of life that eat meat again: how he rebelled as a teenager. become more evident and decisions are no Eventually Marlow found himself “cheat- longer black and white. who ing” and eating pudding-filled doughnuts. Cox said that in his experience, as every- “I didn’t feel like I was being real to the one must choose what they stand for, it vegetarian community,” Marlow said. “I felt becomes harder to say certain things are like a fake.” right or wrong, and choosing to eat meat Cost of soy protein Lauren Raley, a senior journalism student again was a “very organic” experience. products re-eat at Columbia, said she also became a vegetar- During a 14-month bike trip with his ian, in what she considers “a family of total wife, Cox said they accepted hospitality carnivores,” for health reasons. from different people they met along the “I became a vegetarian mainly because I way. He said he started the trip as a vegan, Change in lifestyle had a lot of health problems and I thought but psychologically and physically, his body meat that was the problem,” Raley said. “I tried needed more nutrition. Former vegetarians a lot of different diets like no dairy, vegan, Cox also said that in avoiding dairy prod- grapple with decision raw, low-carb, everything.” ucts, he felt he was forcing his culture upon to eat meat again Dr. Reed Mangels, a nutritionist for the the people who hosted him. Cravings Vegetarian Research Group, said vegetarian “It got to a point,” Cox said, “where some- by Taylor Norris diets have been found to reduce the risk of one offered me a place to sleep and dinner, Assistant Health & Fitness Editor heart disease. and when they made spaghetti and meat- “Vegetarians are potentially eating more balls, I decided to eat it.” IT’S SAID that the college-age years are the fruits and vegetables but it still really Cox said he was able to experience more Health Concerns crux of a person’s development as an indi- depends on personal choices,” Mangels said. culture by eating the food he was offered in vidual and for some, that exploration may Still, some people, such as Chicagoan Ira a stranger’s home. include diet changes. On Dec. 2, the activist Cox, are influenced by things other than Other people, one person specifically, also group People for the Ethical Treatment of health when deciding to eat a vegan or veg- influenced Raley to begin eating meat, after Animals wrote to Lincoln University presi- etarian lifestyle. three years as a vegetarian. Change in political dent Dr. Ivory Nelson to say the Pennsyl- For Cox, it was the music scene. “I started dating J.J., who ate meat all the vania school should stop selling meat and “Honestly, it’s not a simple decision,” Cox time,” Raley said. “Eventually he talked me or social thought dairy products on campus. said of choosing his vegan lifestyle, which into eating a hamburger and I was back on Vegan and vegetarian diets have grown continued for nine years. “I was involved in the wagon.” in popularity for a number of reasons; but the hardcore music scene when I was 15 or Raley said it was easy to begin eating not all college-age people maintain those 16, and there is a very specific political and meat again because she only eliminated it lifestyles, even after years of avoiding meat social component to that [scene].” and dairy. Cox explained that the ideas floating x SEE VEGGIES, PG . 14 Erik Rodriguez THE CHRONICLE

12 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 Hitting the powder, Midwest ready for winter

Minus the mountains of Most of the Midwestern ski and snow- the East and West, local board areas lack the height of the ski and snow spots ready for season snowboard resorts found in the eastern and western parts of the country, but that by Jeff Graveline doesn’t prevent them from offering much Assistant Health & Fitness Editor of the same opportunities that larger and higher resorts offer. THE MIDWEST isn’t known for its moun- “Our hills are short, but so are our lifts,” tains, but that doesn’t stop people across said Ed Meyer, general manager of Ski the central U.S. from enjoying the skiing Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia, and snowboarding possibilities the area has Ill. “We have four lifts that cover 28 acres. to offer. We have a lot of terrain and when you’re Associated Press Just a few hours away from Chicago going up on the lifts you go over our rails, are several ski and snowboard spots fun-boxes, rainbows, all the extreme stuff Skiers and snowboarders across the Midwest have many options for snow getaways throughout the region. that offer a wide range of activities. the kids like.” From skiing to tubing, each resort in Aside from the specific types of terrain the Midwest has its own unique way to that the resorts in the Midwest offer, each offer discounted rates for large ones. rooms that range from regular, standard attract guests. has its own ski and snowboard rental shops. “We do a lot of groups; we do field trips in hotel rooms to suites to dorm accommoda- While the weather might not have All the equipment one would need to enjoy the mornings for schools,” Wiseman said. tions,” said Stewart Stoffregen, marketing dropped the perfect blanket of powder on the hill and the snow can be had for a fee. “Then we turn around at night and we do director at Chestnut Mountain in Galena, the ground, resorts in the Midwest have “We have over 12,000 skis and 400 the night school [for groups]. We also have Ill. “So we can cater to all levels.” found ways around the issue. snowboards to rent [at Ski Snowstar],” a lot of group activities on the weekend.” As the temperatures continue to drop in Almost all of the ski and snowboard Meyer said. What sets some of the resorts apart from the Midwest and snow begins to fall, skiers resorts in the Midwest employ a man-made, Another aspect that each of the areas the rest are the lodges and hotel accom- and snowboarders can expect a solid season snow-making procedure to maintain a solid features is a ski and snowboard school for modations on site. on the slopes of the Midwest. snow base throughout the winter season. first timers. Classes generally last several While each resort has a lodge of some Each resort contacted is projected to be “We’re a 100 percent snow-making facili- hours and are offered both in the morning sort, with an offering of food, drinks and open by Dec. 10 at the latest. ty,” said Jim Wiseman, spokesman for Swiss and afternoon. a place for visitors to rest when they’re For more information about ski and snow- Valley Ski and Snowboard Area in Jones, One of the main draws for each of the not on the hill, some resorts have attached board resorts in the Midwest visit SkiCentral. Mich. “If we get cold weather, we can usu- Midwest ski and snowboard locations is hotel rooms, indoor pools and several res- com or OnTheSnow.com. ally come from green grass to fully open in their accessibility to groups. All of the taurants on location. about 30 to 35 hours.” resorts in the Midwest welcome groups and “We have 120 rooms on site. We do have [email protected]

The Fiction Writing Department invites you to Live, Write, and Study In PRAGUE! Two 5-week Summer SeSSionS: May 28 – June 30 & July 2 – August 4, 2010

Live as an ex-pat in one of Europe’s most beautiful and inspiring cities. Trace the steps of Kafka and For more information Kundera as you navigate the narrow streets. Expand about the program and your worldview, your horizons, and of course your upcoming meetings, writing! please go to: www.colum.edu/prague Possible courses: Advanced Fiction, CRW II: Kafka, CRW: Contemporary European Authors, Dreams and Fiction or contact: Writing, Story & Journal, Creative Nonfiction. New and Elizabeth Yokas special courses may also be added, depending on interest. ([email protected]) or patty mcNair open To All STudenTS! ([email protected]) in the Fiction Writing Information Meetings: Department, Thursday, December 10, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Room 1204 312-369-7611. Tuesday, December 15, 5 – 5:45 p.m. Room 1205 624 S. michigan Building HEALTH & FITNESS I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 13

“One thing we really don’t do is we don’t tell people what to do,” Gareau said. “No software can take the place Find your waistline, of a nutritionist and their advice.” A health log can, however, help an instruc- tor fully understand and advise a client, Morrison said. “I could look at somebody’s intake and output,” Morrision said, which would give your iPhone can help him information on which to base the Diet, exercise apps of a tracking mechanism with objective workout he prepares for his clients. help health-conscious information is the bigger picture, which The intake—food and calories—is also stay on track helps people see where they have an oppor- an area of concentration for most people tunity to improve their training. interested in their health. GoodGuide is an by Taylor Norris “I think there definitely has to be a iPhone application that aids consumers in Assistant Health & Fitness Editor report,” Morrison said. “A created report making healthful food choices. with goals, data and someone’s body com- “GoodGuide is like a database or ency- TELEPHONES HAVE evolved from party lines position. I learned ten years ago that you clopedia,” said GoodGuide co-founder Dara at home to individualized mobile centers have to apply an objective report … that is O’Rourke. “We want to help personalize the that enable people to talk, text, e-mail, find more important than teaching someone to information specifically for child and adult their GPS location—and now log hours bench press.” consumers.” spent at the gym and calories consumed. VidaOne was released as a computer soft- GoodGuide began with the idea to create Oriana Riley THE CHRONICLE As the use of iPhone applications contin- ware program 10 years ago, Gareau said. an application that could scan barcodes for ues to rise, one genre of applications has Today, he said, 100,000 people use it to a person while they were grocery shopping. with food labels,” O’Rourke said. He added recently moved up the rank in popularity. track their workouts. O’Rourke said the phone carriers were that nutrition labels are often confusing Research firm Gartner placed health-ori- “It allows you to enter data when you not supportive of the endeavor at the time, and serving suggestions change so fre- ented applications No. 5 on its list of the top work out,” Gareau said. “You can enter all and instead of a phone application, Good- quently that consumers need help with ten mobile applications that will define the the weights and exercises.” Guide.com was created. making nutrition choices. mobile world in 2012. Morrison’s mantra is that a log of work- “We get millions of people coming to Goals for GoodGuide in the next “I think having the mobile devices outs offers accountability to people who GoodGuide.com, but we see the vast major- six months to a year, O’Rourke said, enables people to keep all the information,” are training. ity of purchasing decisions are made right are to add consumer ratings on top of said Jean Louis Gareau, creator of VidaOne, Other features that supplement the work- at the moment [away from the computer] in the scientific evaluations to add the a workout-tracking application that began out log on VidaOne, Gareau said, include a the grocery store or restaurant,” O’Rourke level of validity for other consumers. as computer software. GPS program that allows runners to record said. “We see the move toward everything He said he also envisions incorporating “The industry itself has really evolved their route. going mobile.” recipes and shopping lists according to a over the last 10 years,” said Aaron Morrison, Gareau added that his application is not While O’Rourke recognizes the vast person’s interests in the application. an independent personal trainer who works only for athletes, but any person who is market there is for an application that Although these applications meet many at HiFi Fitness in Lincoln Park. “One of the interested in fitness and keeping a tab on focuses on weight loss, he said that is not needs, Morrison was clear to say that they successes is that tracking information [on their general well-being. the focus of GoodGuide. He said the pro- will not guarantee a person’s success in applications] creates accountability.” It should be noted, however, that Gareau gram is based on a team of scientists who health training. Morrison said he has seen many health- maintains that VidaOne, nor any other rate food choices based on nutrition, envi- He said oftentimes people are aware of conscious people use applications in order application, can replace the role of a true ronmental and social impact. to track their workouts. He said the benefit fitness instructor. “This is a push for greater transparency x SEE APPS, PG 14

14 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

» VEGGIES Continued from PG. 11 Simply from her diet for health reasons. “I was never a PETA person, I totally believe in the circle of life,” Raley said. Marlow said his “coming home” to meat came after the realization that he wasn’t sweet authentically concerned with the purposes of vegetarianism. Here’s to keeping “I like to joke and say I ‘sold out,’” said your sweet tooth Marlow, who was a self-proclaimed veg- easily satisfied etarian policeman and made a habit of making sure other vegetarians stayed in by Ren Lahvic their boundaries. Advertising Account Executive Marlow said he has not yet gained back the nearly 30 pounds he lost when initially Andy Keil THE CHRONICLE IT’S EARLY December, which means your becoming a vegetarian. holiday has already been in e ect for the Microwave the contents for 30 seconds Raley and Cox, on the other hand, have past two weeks. and then take out and stir the chips. Con- INGREDIENTS both gained some weight since beginning With the holiday season in full force, tinue this process in 15-second intervals 1 22-ounce bag of white chocolate to eat meat and dairy products, but they say being a college student, and most likely a (this varies depending on the power of your chips it is for the better. broke one, you probably do not have the microwave) until the chocolate has a glue- 5 standard size peppermint candy “I am pretty happy with my decision,” patience for fancy holiday recipes. So let’s like consistency. canes Raley said. “Now when I have a vegetarian bring third grade back, college-style. Make sure you do not overheat the choco- dish, it just feels empty without meat.” Peppermint bark may arguably be the late—this will turn your peppermint bark INSTRUCTIONS easiest treat of the season, so ditch the into peppermint mulch! 1. Crush candy canes, set aside. [email protected] double boilers and the gourmet ingredients, Now pour the chocolate onto a cookie and fool your friends and co-workers with sheet and spread it evenly with a spoon. 2. Heat chocolate chips in » APPS a treat that’s sure to impress. Before the chocolate gets a chance to set, microwave in 15-second inter- First, begin by crushing your candy canes sprinkle the candy cane pieces over it, then vals, stirring between. Continued from PG. 13 into tiny pieces. The best way to do this is to put it in the freezer for about an hour to place them in a plastic bag and use a hard freeze. 3. Spread melted chocolate on where they can improve, and it’s a matter object to crush the candy canes (I used a After the chocolate is frozen, take it out cookie sheet to a 1/4 inch thick. of actually following through. glass bowl). of the freezer and use a spatula to break it 4. Sprinkle crushed candy But the options are out there and accord- After the candy canes are crushed, place o of the cookie sheet. Don’t worry about ing to O’Rourke, it is majorly due to Apple’s them to the side. breaking it unevenly, that’s the idea. canes over chocolate. support to anyone and everyone who builds Usually for this recipe a double boiler Put the dessert into goodie bags for 5. Freeze cookie sheet for 1 hour. an application. wouldPublication be needed to melt the chocolate,Size but friends or justRun eatDate(s) it right Initial o the sheet,Time it’s 6. Break bark o the cookie “Apple has really revolutionized the for convenience’COLUMBIA sake, we’ll be using the yours to enjoy! mobile phone world,” O’Rourke said. 5 x 8 MON 12.7 sheet with a spatula, and eat! microwave.THA – SF CHRONICLE Pour the white chocolate chips 4 Color Ad into a microwave-safe bowl. [email protected] [email protected]

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DELICATESSEN

COLD SANDWICHES {} the MELT SHOP THE ORIGINALS TH STREET BURGERS Wabash at 11 % EGGS WARNER BROS. PICTURES PRESENTS 15 LOX BOX IN ASSOCIATION WITH SPYGLASS ENTERTAINMENT A REVELATIONS ENTERTAINMENT/MACE NEUFELD PRODUCTION A MALPASO PRODUCTION MORGAN FREEMAN OFF EXECUTIVE BASED ON THE BOOK SCREENPLAY PASTAgriddle MATT DAMON “INVICTUS” PRODUCERS MORGAN FREEMAN TIM MOORE “PLAYING THE ENEMY” BY JOHN CARLIN BY ANTHONY PECKHAM PRODUCED PRODUCED AND BY LORI MCCREARY ROBERT LORENZ MACE NEUFELD DIRECTED BY CLINT EASTWOOD Student APPETIZERS DISCOUNT CORNEDAND BEEF & just show us your PASTRAMINOSHES HASH For your chance to win a pass to see "INVICTUS" valid i.d. TONIGHT (Monday, December 7) at a special screening of SO U PS the film at the AMC River East, simply stop by the offices of big salads THE COLUMBIA SODAFOUNTAIN CHRONICLE From ouR 33 E Congress - Suite 224 IN-HOUSE SODA JERK PIE AND CAKE SERVICE FREE MOVIE PASSES VALID STRICTLY FOR COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO STUDENTS, STAFF AND FACULTY ONLY. All federal, state and local regulations apply. Two admit-one passes per person. No purchase necessary. Employees of all promotional partners, their agencies, and those who have received a pass within the last 90 days are not eligible. A recipient of prizes assumes any and all risks related to use of ticket and accepts any restrictions required by prize provider. Warner Bros Pictures, Columbia Chronicle, and their affiliates accept no responsibility or liability in connection with any loss or accident incurred in connection with use of a prize. Prizes cannot be exchanged, transferred or redeemed for cash, in whole or in part. We are not responsible if, for any reason, winner is unable to use his/her ticket in whole or in part. Not responsible for lost; delayed or misdirected entries. All federal and local taxes are the responsibility of the winner. Void where prohibited by law. PRIZES RECEIVED THROUGH THIS PROMOTION ARE NOT FOR RESALE. This films is rated PG-13 for brief strong language. PRIZES RECEIVED THROUGH THIS PROMOTION ARE NOT FOR RESALE 1112 SouthWabash elevencitydiner.com . . . Mon-Thurs 8am–9:30pm Fri 8am–10:30pm Sat 9am–10:30pm Sun 9am–9pm IN THEATRES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 Valid until 11/11. Discount applicable toward food & nonalcoholic beverage only. ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 15

50years of comedy gone by in a

Chicago’s Second City comedy theatre celebrates a milestone anniversary

SEE PG. 20 16 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

Courtesy QUINN DOMBROWSKI

(All pictures) A selection of the graffiti in University of Chicago alumna Quinn Dombrowski’s book, which documents the messages on the walls, cubby holes and the white boards at the University of Chicago’s Regenstein Library. Library confessions revealed

U of C alumna takes student who’s working hard on classwork updates her photographs. Nasir said the contest is a neat extension pictures of graffiti for or anyone in the business environment Nasir admits that though the Regen- of the book where she’s putting the graffiti book, hosts remix contest who has a lot of work to do.” stein Library has amazing resources, the back into the world and asking others to Dombrowski explained that the book architecture is depressing. come up with their own impressions. by Mina Bloom includes messages about love, sex, despair, “It’s this brutalist-style that looks like “I think it’s similar to how the graffiti Assistant Arts & Culture Editor bachelor’s degree papers, doodles, intel- a bunch of really depressing, colored chil- works in the first place,” Nasir said. “Few lectual commentary, long discussions and dren’s blocks stacked up together and it’s items of graffiti here stand alone—they COMMENTS LIKE “fish eat brain” and “go to much more. really hideous,” Nasir said. are edited, commented upon and appro- Italy, be a cobbler” were stealthily etched She received a joint bachelor’s degree/ Despite its design shortcomings, Dom- priated.” into the walls and hidden cubby holes of master’s degree in Slavic linguistics from browski said that every U of C student Dombrowski has created merchan- the University of Chicago’s Regenstein the U of C in 2006. She now works for the ends up at the Regenstein Library at some dise with the phrases on them as well, Library, also known as the focal point of central IT organization for the university point. which she’s been selling on her Web site student social life on campus. and has continued to take at least one pic- Nasir’s 22-year-old roommate said to family and friends. Though the art is vandalism by defini- ture a day for the past two years, she said. the atmosphere at U of C is very intel- “I still haven’t broken even on the tion, the graffiti that exists in this build- After publishing the book through the lectual as well as very expressive, which whole project,” Dombrowski said. “I ing has a cultural voice, which is why U site called Lulu.com and buying a distri- results in the kinds of graffiti that discuss would not suggest publishing a niche of C alumna Quinn Dombrowski decided bution package from Amazon, 125 books professors, terrible classes and authors. book as a way to get rich.” to take photographs of the messages and have been printed and a couple of Hyde Ultimately, people want to talk about the Overall, current students and alumni compile them into a book in the hopes Park book stores now sell Dombrowski’s things that they’re dealing with in class, can commiserate over Dombrowski’s that students and alumni everywhere can niche book. she said. project for the simple fact that they’ve relate to the spectrum of human emotion “It creates an interesting voice for this However, the library doesn’t officially all been there. presented in a quirky product of too much very specific community, but one which I condone graffiti. Thankfully, Dombrows- “One person’s 3 a.m. procrastinatory time spent in the library. think would resonate with any person who ki explained that there hasn’t been any doodle can provide hope for another After a July 2008 L.A. Times article and has devoted such a huge chunk of their backlash in regards to students drawing that—contrary to how they may feel at subsequent September 2009 Chicagoist time to study in the pursuit of ... some- new graffiti specifically to be included the moment—there is life after Sosc and post about Dombrowski’s Flickr account, thing,” said U of C alumna Loranne Nasir. in the book, perhaps to the credit of the O-chem,” Nasir said. Dombrowski decided to independently “When you’ve been in the library for hours disclaimer on her Web site. For additional information, visit Cres- publish a book titled Crescat Graffiti, Vita on end, you tend to forget what exactly In order to promote the release of her catGraffiti.com. E-mail submissions Excolatur: Confessions of the University of that ‘something’ is.” new book, Dombrowski is now hosting a to [email protected] for the Chicago, which exclusively showcases the Nasir, a 24-year-old collective mainte- remix contest through Dec. 20, in which RegRemix contest through Dec. 20. You graffiti in the Regenstein Library. nance assistant in the Book Stacks Depart- she is encouraging students to recreate can find the book at Seminary Co-op, 57th “There’s definitely some inside jokes ment for the Regenstein Library, said she the graffiti with a different medium such Street Books, 5757 S. University Ave., and about University of Chicago and various discovered Dombrowski’s Flickr site when as video, song, poetry, essay, digital col- the Hyde Park Powell’s, 1501 E. 57th St., dorms, and some really geeky stuff in there it was mentioned in the L.A. Times. Since lage, mash-up or essentially something for $14.99. too,” Dombrowski said. “A lot of it speaks then, she habitually checks her site every physical that can be photographed or to a universal experience of any college Monday because that’s when she usually mailed. [email protected]

ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 17 Williams’ humor survives surgery Well-known comedian But asked about his biggest personal continues stand-up accomplishments, he said, “My three chil- career after surgery dren. All of them astonish me.” Contrary to the title of his recent movie, by Gail Pennington “I’m not the world’s greatest dad. I’m a MCT Newswire work in progress. But I’m so proud of them.” Son Zak, 26, “graduated from NYU with a AFTER HEART surgery comes rehab, walking, degree in linguistics.” Daughter Zelda, 20, then maybe some laps in the pool, slowly “has been acting and doing mainly horror regaining strength and stamina. movies, which is always great. ‘We loved it For Robin Williams, who had heart sur- when you got slashed. It was so good.’ And gery in March, rehab meant more than my other son (Cody, 18) is writing, studying time on the treadmill. The famously manic poetry and literature and art history. All comic also needed to regain his strength on of these things, to me, that’s the ultimate stage, to make sure he had the stamina for a production deal.” full set, and maybe even to reassure himself Williams got his fi rst national exposure that he was still funny. in 1977 in an HBO “Young Comedians” Williams, 58, was in the middle of the special, then returned in 1978 with the “Self Destruction” tour in Florida when he groundbreaking “O˜ the Wall,” in which he had trouble breathing and was hospital- MCT bounced around the stage in baggy pants ized. He later underwent replacement of and suspenders. Robin Williams returns to HBO on Dec. 6 for his comedy special “Weapons of Self Destruction.” his aortic valve, an operation that felt less He came full circle on Dec. 6 with “Weap- routine because his older brother Robert thoughtful and unusually subdued during Williams’ response: “Oh, yeah.” ons of Self Destruction,” taped last month had died after heart surgery in 2007. a half-hour Q-and-A session, joking a lot but The recuperation, which meant taking in Washington during a sold-out tour. By July, when Williams met with TV crit- going o˜ on few wild tangents. three months o˜ , wasn’t all smooth sailing. If the Robin Williams of 2009 had a ics in Los Angeles to talk about his new Recent years have been especially turbu- “Coming back out of it, you think, ‘I’m chance to meet the Robin Williams of 1978, HBO special, the surgery had become a lent for Williams. In addition to his surgery going to be fi ne,’” he said. “And then the what would he tell the kid with the sus- series of punch lines. and his brother’s death, he entered treat- fi rst few months, you’re like, ‘Not really.’” penders and wild hair? “I had the surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, ment in 2006 for a relapse of alcohol abuse Eventually, “You really do appreciate the “Brace yourself,” he’d say. “It’s going to be and I woke up going, ‘Where am I?’ And and his marriage of almost 20 years broke simplest things like breath and friends,” a long run, and it’s going to be an interest- they said, ‘Cleveland.’ And I kept going, up last year. and you decide, “Yeah, I’ve got to keep ing one.” ‘Why?’’’ Then there’s the heart surgery. going, just take it a little slower.” With 30 years perspective, “There’s noth- “You go in, and they really tell you that During an appearance afterward with Williams has been back on the road, ing I regret,” Williams said. “I’ve learned a you’re going to get a cow valve.” No prob- David Letterman, whose “quintuple bypass updating and polishing the act since lot over the years. Not everything worked, lem: “The grazing is easy.” trumps me big time,” Letterman leaned summer. On a professional level, he’s happy but at least it was interesting to try.” But Williams acknowledged that the over during the break and asked, “Do you still to be working “and doing stand-up, I’m experience changed him, and he seemed fi nd yourself getting emotional?” very proud of that.” [email protected]

_ 18 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 High school teacher plays to his crowd

Poster and other local His current job and experience playing bands to perform for music made the Bang the Drum concert an school’s benefit easy leap. “It just made a lot of sense,” Kayser by Cody Prentiss said. “I’m all about trying to put togeth- Assistant Arts & Culture Editor er causes—to get bands to work toward something instead of just beer and get- PERSPECTIVES CHARTER Schools may have ting people to hang out. It seems like a less money to spend on its after-school pro- worthwhile cause, and it’s something we Andy Keil THE CHRONICLE grams this year, but its faculty has come believe in.” Perspectives Instructor David Doll (right) teaches students to play guitar in the Kids Rock after-school up with their own way to make up for the Other after-school programs include program. From left: Alanna Johnson, Brenden Jackson and Alex Aguilar. school’s budget constraints. salsa dancing lessons—which has a dedi- Matthew Kayser teaches at PCI’s Rodney cated student following—a newspaper, a “They learn the kind of dedication it said. “When people think they need to go D. Joslin Campus and is also the lead singer step team and a drama club. Kate Cichon, takes to get good at something when you in and they cut a budget, music and arts of the band Poster. They will take the stage Rodney D. Joslin Campus program director, start from nothing,” Cichon said. “Music is the fi rst thing to go ... It’s sad because at Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., on said that the after-school budget was cut and art is all about that. There are some people aren’t introduced to different Dec. 8 for the benefi t concert Bang the Drum: more than 40 percent, which has limited students that have some sort of core abil- artistic expressions to help them express A Benefi t for the Arts at Perspectives Charter the school’s ability to buy art supplies and ity, but mostly everybody has to start with themselves.” School. Proceeds from the show will pay for guitars for their Kid’s Rock program. very little and practice. As a school that This is the fi rst benefi t the band has instruments and art supplies at the Rodney Cichon said these are often the type is college-oriented, that is an incredibly performed. Douglass hadn’t heard of Kay- D. Joslin campus. Soft Speaker, King Spar- of things that get cut fi rst when schools important lesson for our students to have.” ser’s band before he got in touch with her row and Helicopter will also perform. tighten their budgets. This has forced This will be the fi rst event the school has band’s manager. Joe Daley, Soft Speaker’s “Even if people don’t care about the cause administrators to think more creatively facilitated, but Cichon said they would like drummer, has performed benefi t concerts and don’t want to help kids with the arts, and look for ways to generate funds from to continue them in the future. The bands before, many of those to raise money for his I really think it will be worth people’s 10 outside donors. participating have been very enthusiastic brother’s illness. bucks to see these bands,” Kayser said. “That’s the way a lot of nonprofi ts are to help out, she said. “People come to those gigs for di˜ erent Kayser already has experience organiz- going now,” Cichon said. “They have to do Blaire Douglass, Soft Speaker’s bass- reasons but for me—and I can only speak ing benefi t concerts. The fi rst one he put a little bit more grass roots organizing with ist, played in her elementary school band from my experience—playing the actual together benefi ted New York’s homeless events like this.” and said she’s happy to perform for a show is no di˜ erent,” Daley said. “You still with jackets and coats gathered from the Cichon said that the arts are a vital facet good cause. enjoy playing just as much.” audience, and he organized a similar con- of education in a student’s life, especially “It’s really great when kids can get cert in Raleigh, N.C. while living there. ones preparing themselves for college. introduced to music in school,” Douglass [email protected] “Best mystic tan” Cs MagaZine NOW OPEN NOW

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Authentic Mystic Tan 10% oFF $5 tanning session Luxury Tanning Beds Designer swimwear Spa with valid student i.D. or mention of monday, tuesday, and Wednesday Services & More this ad from 9am-12 www.bellabronzetan.com ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 19 Neighborhood comes out of the closet by Tony Merevick ent feel to it. Glenwood helped with that. That Contributing Writer “It’s a di erent vibe from going makes me very proud, for lack of a out to Lakeview. Even Big Chicks better word.” A FACEBOOK group for lesbian, gay, [5024 N. Sheridan Road] has its own Sims tends to be modest when it bisexual and transgender residents vibe,” he said. comes to praise. in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighbor- After having drinks with some “I’m really not doing hard work, hood has built a following so large friends for the fi rst time at The Glen- I’m just sending out an announce- that it has become an alternative wood, Sims quickly contacted the ment every month on Facebook and option to the gay scene in Boystown owner, Renee Labrana, about bring- getting people to join the Web site,” located in Lakeview. ing the group to her bar. he said. Created in the summer of 2008 by “It was clearly a gay or gay-friend- “Arlie is fantastic as a host,” Har- Columbia librarian Arlie Sims, the ly bar,” Sims said. “[Renee] is very rington said. “He is really warm group was formed to address the friendly and very enthusiastic.” and welcoming, and I was really North Side neighborhood’s growing “We had just opened,” Labrana impressed with how he manages it. gay population, and bring together said. “And I was thrilled that he He basically spends time introduc- local members of the LGBT com- would want to bring a group of ing people to each other and he is munity. people in the neighborhood together really good at that.” Sims is the head of Reference and at my establishment.” When asked about the future of Instruction and Coordinator of Sta Labrana said she has many fond the group, Sims laughed. He is con- Development at the Columbia Col- memories of the socials. tent with the group. lege Library. “I love to hear the stories that “I need a task force because I don’t Formally known as LGBTQ in people in the group have met here, really have a vision,” he said. “To me, Rogers Park, the group had its fi rst and then are going to each other’s it’s doing just what I wanted it to birthday Oct. 17 at its usual location houses or out to dinners together,” do.” in The Glenwood, located at 6962 she said. “It makes you realize a big Courtesy ARLIE SIMS N. Glenwood Ave. The most recent city isn’t always so insular, and The [email protected] Members of LGBTQ in Rogers Park gather at The Glenwood bar to socialize. meeting was on Nov. 14, the 13th ` meeting of the social group. “I wanted to have more of a net- work in the neighborhood, a time where people could go out and know that they would meet lots of their gay friends in the neighborhood without having to get on the train or drive or take a cab to go to Lakeview or Edgewater,” Sims said. Since it was conceived, the group has seen a large increase in atten- dance, boasting a large crowd at each gathering, according to Sims, a Rogers Park resident. “Very soon—almost immediately, people started joining,” Sims said. “I don’t remember how quickly we got 50 people. It was a couple of months and we had a couple dozen and then more and more.” The group now has 293 mem- bers on Facebook. Sims said people in their late 20s and 30s and older attend the socials. “I saw it on Facebook and I clicked on it, found it very interesting and I joined it about a couple of months ago,” said Michael Harrington, Rogers Park resident and chairman of the Board of Trustees at United Church of Rogers Park. “It’s friendly and festive,” Sims said. “People are really happy to be hanging out with, well, their own kind in the neighborhood.” Sims said he tries to talk to every- one in the bar. He wants to make sure that everyone knows about the new group. “It’s always good to be amongst one’s peers and fellows,” Harrington said. “I enjoyed it. I saw many neigh- bors and people I knew from the LGBTQ community and felt good. It was a refreshing atmosphere.” Sims moved to the neighborhood in 2001 and began to notice its large gay population. “So I got to thinking and I thought, ‘You know, I’m going to start a Face- book page because I would like to meet more people in the neighbor- hood and not feel like you have to go to Andersonville or Lakeview to have social lives,’” he said. Lakeview and Andersonville are North Side neighborhoods known for their large gay communities, such as Boystown. Sims said Rogers Park has a di er 20 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

The Second City Theatre may have Alexander now works in both Los gotten its name from its hometown Angeles and Chicago. He said that of Chicago, but that hasn t stopped it Chicago s improv scene is special from spreading well beyond the stage because of how supportive its differ- throughout the past 50 years. ent players and troupes are. Since its founding, several stages, Chicago is a city that really takes training centers and touring com- care of its own, and it s one of the few panies have emerged as part of the places in North America where an well-known troupe s family. It has actor can really study their craft and even crossed into the television be nurtured, Alexander said. Youre medium with its Emmy award-winning not in the glare of New York City or show SCTV. Los Angeles. You dont have to worry if It went too quickly, said Second there s an agent or management City President Andrew Alexander. sitting in the audience. Its I ve been doing this for almost 35 much more about years. When you start to see all the the work. different generations that are coming That com- back, it starts to take you back to dif- munity spirit ferent kinds of memories. can be seen On Dec. 11-13, Second City will on the various celebrate its 50th birthday with stages across current and former cast members Chicago. Second such as Steven Colbert and SCTV City alumni alumni Joe Flaherty, Eugene Levy, and training Andrea Martin, Catherine O Hara, center gradu- Harold Ramis, Martin Short and ates sprinkle Dave Thomas. the improv A variety of scene. Both iO There weren t all panels, perfor- Chicago and mances and the Annoyance these little clubs ... screenings are Theater have planned, including roots from Second Nobody cared about a documentary City s main stage. iO improvers at the on founder Paul Chicago s co-founder Del Close was Sills and bits from Second City s artistic director and time. You d have to classic revues co-founder Charna Halpern gradu- CHICAGO S SECOND CITY THEATRE go to nightclubs and performed by ated from Second City s own Player s multiple genera- Workshop. CELEBRATES ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY beg the owners. tions of Second Halpern said she left Second City alumni. City because she needed a place -Charna Halpern The improv to perform. troupe was We had all these troupes and we founded in 1959 by a group of young, had nowhere to play, Halpern said. University of Chicago alumni and There wasn t an Improv Olympic. members of the just-folded Compass There weren t all these little clubs Players. Paul Sills founded Compass that had improv. Nobody cared and went on to run Second City. Del about improvers at the time. Youd Close, who would become a staple have to go to nightclubs and beg of the Chicago improv scene, joined the owners. Second City two years later. She said Second City s fame has Alexander started on the troupe s helped her, especially because of the Toronto stage in 1974 when he bought attention it s brought to the city. the troubled theater. People would come to Chicago for He went on to create SCTV Second City not hearing of iO many, with much of Toronto s talent and many years ago, Halpern said. They produced more than 150 hours of created a bandwagon I was able to SCTV, which won two Emmys jump on. I always felt like they were and was nominated for 12 over the the big mother ship I could stand course of its run. He eventually pur- behind. chased Chicago s Second City Theatre The attention Second City attracts in 1985. from talent seekers is responsible for

STORY BY CODY PRENTISS LAYOUT BY DANA LACOCO ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 21

All photos courtesy ROBIN HAMMOND

launching many comedians and per- with Columbia and teaches classes as formers careers. a part of Columbia s Comedy Studies Dan Castellaneta, the voice of curriculum. Sjoholm said the increase Homer Simpson, started at Second in students taking classes has made it City s training center with Halpern. harder for people to stand out, but Tina Fey, Jack McBrayer and Scott many people are in the training center Adsit of 30 Rock all took a turn for fun or to apply it to their own there, too. Thats not counting former established careers. Saturday Night Live cast members A lot of people come to us for who performed on the main stage the ability to work at one point or another. Alexander on the fly to create said that this poaching of talent by something that is You had people shows like Saturday Night Live fixed eventually, who were older who was actually a major motivator to Sjoholm said. I start SCTV. think that s very ... chucked it all to Most of the SNL people applicable to a lot pursue this. had come out of Second of things. There City, so that was what are a lot of people -Tamale Sepp caused me to start my who take classes own show, Alexander because they just want to be better said. It was more out at presenting themselves. of defense than offense. Columbia Student Fellow Tamale Both have their own Sepp graduated from both Second training programs and run City s Conservatory and iO Chicago s shows by their students. training program. She said the skills Halpern said the fact that she learned informed her own one- there are so many opportuni- woman show in 2004, and she is using ties to perform makes Chica- those same techniques to write her go unique. She remembers one performance thesis for her Master instance when she was hired to of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts teach two improv groups in Toron- and Media. to. She offered to teach both groups Sepp received her bachelor s degree of eight simultaneously to help save in Agricultural Education and Agricul- them money, but got a strong no tural Technology Management from from both. the University of Arizona, but moved CHICAGO S SECOND CITY THEATRE They hate each other, Halpern to Chicago to pursue a career in said. They won t do it. They won t comedy. She said the people she met CELEBRATES ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY work together. I was like, Why, what there ranged in age and career types. are you fighting for? You’ve got noth- “You had people who were older, ing. You each got little crumbs. If you who had completed many years of make a big scene and work together college and were actively pursuing then people will go to your theater another career, Sepp said. I know and the other theater. of lawyers and doctors who liter- Aaron Sjoholm, Second City s ally dropped their other careers and training center operations manager, chucked it all to pursue this. started working at the theater six That drive has created the improv years ago and also went through the scene that stands today. Second City s training program. He said that the role in it may be shifting though, training aspect of Second City was Sepp said. much more of an informal affair until I feel like people have more choices more recently. available to them at this point, Sepp For the longest time it was noth- said. It s easier to get your name out, ing formal, Sjoholm said. An actor get recognition and get your work out or director would just decide to do than it used to be, but I think Second a workshop for people they knew City s popularity is really based on or who were working here in some what they ve done. They established capacity. Then, sometime in the 80s, themselves as a feeder pool for big- Second City teamed up with Play- name things like SCTV and Saturday ers Workshop and offered classes Night Live. through that organization. Second City has also partnered [email protected]

STORY BY CODY PRENTISS LAYOUT BY DANA LACOCO 22 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 TNT’s ‘Men of a Certain Age’ pushes envelope

Comedy-drama series up Springsteen’s “Glory Days”). Now he chronicles life after struggles to curb a gambling problem and 50 for older men runs a party store where his teen employ- ees openly deride his “old man music.” by Chuck Barney Joe still finds time to chill out with a MCT Newswire couple of pals from college. There’s Terry (Bakula), a past-his-prime actor and part- “MEN OF A Certain Age,” a new comedy-dra- time temp who still manages to attract ma from TNT, is about three dudes pushing pretty young women with scant effort. 50 and all the horrific gloom that entails. Rounding out the trio is Owen (Braugher), You have to wonder if it landed in prime a stressed-out husband and dad stuck in a time purely by accident. dead-end job at a car dealership owned by Isn’t television, after all, supposed to be his sadistic father. youth-obsessed? Doesn’t the most prized Midlife, they have discovered, can be a TV demographic start at age 18 and flat bummer, man. They’re coping with health line at 49? What kind of companies would scares, memory lapses, self-doubt, declin- be caught dead advertising with such a ing relevance and expanding bellies. Occa- show—other than Rogaine and Lipitor? sionally, they get touchy-feely and whine Yet, here we are being asked to hang out about their miseries while dining out—a with guys in relaxed-fit jeans who strain la Carrie Bradshaw and company. In fact, to read menus and still listen to Neil this show is a lot like “Sex and the City,” Sedaka, for crying out loud. At least they’re only without the sex and the really hot played by familiar actors: Ray Romano, shoes. Scott Bakula and Andre Braugher. And at It all sounds somewhat depressing, and it least they manage to be as endearing as can be. Tonight’s pilot episode occasionally they are pitiful. turns flat and aimless and is too light MCT NEWSWIRE If it doesn’t work, blame Romano. After on laughs. At one point, I found myself (From left to right) Andre Braugher, Ray Romano and Scott Bakula star in a new TNT comedy-drama about spending nine seasons headlining one poised to declare “Men of a Certain Age” the life of 50-year-old men and how they deal with the reality of growing older. of the most popular sitcoms in recent only “slightly more fun than a prostate memory, he returns—significantly less exam.” like when Terry announces he’s dating a laugh-out-loud, the plot lines more tedious buffoonish—in a very different kind of But like some things in life, “Men” 25-year-old and Joe warns, “Now you’re than tantalizing, the cast more grizzled. series as a co-creator, writer and execu- gets better with time. By the second going to have to see all the Twilight Considering all that, Romano and his tive producer. Yes, we’re about to find out and third episodes, I started to bond movies!” pals will never be close to generating if everybody still loves Raymond. with these guys and empathize with Still, while I applaud TNT for attempt- Twilight-like buzz. The good news? At least He plays Joe, a slightly neurotic, recent- their issues. And being of, um, a cer- ing to bring some maturity to prime time, they still have their hair. ly separated father of two who once had tain age myself, I chuckled right along it’s difficult to envision “Men” becoming a dreams of being a professional golfer (cue with some of their observations, mass hit. The humor is more low-key than [email protected]

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Come see our new mural by Columbia student Lauren Kosiara ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 23

Brent Lewis THE CHRONICLE The Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation has embarked on an initiative that will provide a nancial solvent for artists and property owners alike, called Pop-Up Art Loop. The initiative partners with owners of storefronts to provide an art venue for local artists for a limited amount of time. Pop-Up Art invades Chicago

New art initiative photographer and member of the Chicago transforms vacant property Photography Collective, said can be made into art galleries is giving students the same opportunities as professionals. by Katherine Gamby “There’s another level to it because there Assistant Arts & Culture Editor might be people who are really great that are students and where do they show their THE CHRONICLE IS STOREFRONTS IN Chicago’s Loop will be work?” Natkin said. dressed up by a new initiative that is The Chicago Photography Collective is designed to help artists and property a group of Chicago professional photogra- owners during the economic downturn. phers who want to create a sense of unity NOW HIRING Pop-Up Art Loop is a recent project of the within their community. They are current- Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation in which ly occupying a storefront on the corner of FOR SPRING 2010 storefronts in the Loop are used, under con- Madison Street and Wabash Avenue, where tract, as galleries by artists to exhibit their Natkin said he hopes to hold events and artwork for a fi xed amount of time. Some possibly make connections with students. exhibit spaces include the Wabash Gallery, “There is a lot that students can learn 220 S. Wabash Ave., and the Chicago Photog- from hanging out with us … I’ve got more raphy Collective, 29 E. Madison Ave., which than 40 years of experience and I’m more are now on displaying work. than happy to share it with anybody at any “The idea is to have a win/win situation given time,” Natkin said. both for property owners and for artists,” He said that all of the photographers in said Laura Jones, associate director of the the organization have about 1,000 years of Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation. professional experience combined to share The idea of the initiative, which is not for with students, which they are eager to do. profi t, grew from a luncheon between the Natkin said that although it is important to chairman of the Board of the Chicago Loop foster mentorship with students, forming a Alliance Foundation and several individu- bond with all photographers is the goal of als who are now members of the Chicago the Chicago Photography Collective. Turn in a COmPLETEd application, Photography Collective. Pop-Up Art Loop “We want to make this into a community is meant to occupy vacant storefronts in and it’s not just professional, it’s students get a FREE pack of ramen! order to bring potential renters and encour- too,” Natkin said. While supplies last. age them to stay well after the artists have Jon Randolph, a photographer and come and gone. member of the Chicago Photography Col- “What we hope to do is give this artist a lective, said student or not, everyone should space for 30 days or so and then make him witness good artwork and will when they move on,” Jones said. visit these art galleries o ered through the After the artists leave a location, they Pop-Up Art Loop. move to another one that the Chicago Loop “I think it always benefi ts someone to Alliance Foundation has partnered with. look at good work … there’s got to be some- Jones said that though it is a solid concept, body’s cup of tea somewhere on these there is still room for improvement. walls,” Randolph said. “Right now this is a pilot project; we’ve For more information on the initiative’s mis- only started with a couple of locations to sion, locations of some Pop-Up Art Loop gal- see how the whole thing would work,” leries, upcoming exhibitions as well as hours of Jones said. “Later on, we’ll be enlarging business for the galleries, visit PopUpArtLoop. the project, but not before we get the kinks com. worked out.” One improvement that Paul Natkin, a [email protected] 24 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

FILM REVIEW Audience gives salute to ‘Bad Lieutenant’ Hollywood actor Nicolas Cage stars in Werner ‘Bad Lieutenant: Port of Herzog’s new film Call New Orleans’ Starring: Nicolas Cage by David Orlikoff Director: Werner Herzog Film Critic Run Time: 122 minutes Rating: R Now playing at local theaters. RENOWNED GERMAN director Werner Her- zog’s latest fi lm, Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans, is getting a lot of attention as a manic parody of the original. Some are about abandoning the script entirely. The even comparing it to the potentially glori- fi lm is littered with scenes that stand alone ous train wreck Snakes on a Plane. Given the as powerful, hilarious and possibly even odd circumstances of the production, that meaningful. One scene from the trailer might not be too far o . is better in full form: Nicolas Cage as Ter- An independent and guerilla fi lmmaker, rence—the bad lieutenant—all coked up Herzog is widely celebrated for his infl uen- and cracked out, demands his lackeys tial fi lms like Aguirre: The Wrath of God and “shoot him again, his soul is still dancing.” IMDB Stroszek. He has built a career by telling the The harmonica folk song “Old Lost John” Nicolas Cage plays Terence McDonagh, a drug-addicted detective who investigates ve murders. Eva stories of characters with strong wills who by Sonny Terry plays over this exuberant, Mendes stars as Frankie Donnenfeld. often fall o the edge of madness. Lately manic and mesmerizing scene just as it he has been turning out documentaries on did for Herzog in the much-talked-about least of which is getting away with any and something. It’s fun, for one, and if there the subject, focusing more on the spiritual conclusion of Stroszek. everything—do raise a few questions, but isn’t some meaning present, there’s some- rather than literal truth of the matter. And Despite the plethora of clichés, the story just as often, they provoke a simple smile. thing that resembles it very closely. now he has teamed up with Nicolas Cage, structure under Herzog remains unfettered Herzog is comfortable with the subjec- Between the cheesy writing, the showy a big Hollywood star whose abilities some by convention. It has what at times appear tive and supernatural. He uses them as casting and Herzog’s uncanny ability to would call into question, to do a remake for to be characteristic climbs and falls, but more than mere metaphors for the literal inject a level of authenticity, Bad Lieutenant a gritty violent opus he has never even seen. they are treated with little consideration. struggles of power and morality taking becomes more than a parody. It is a master- Understandably, some of his fans are fear- The major confl icts and plot lines are all place within Terrence. He uses them to ful deconstruction of the genre. ing the worst while still others are hoping familiar, but strange and unexpected things peer behind the veil and show us the truth At least as much fun as Snakes on a Plane, for it in a so-bad-it’s-good kind of way. happen along the way to disrupt the conti- we’d never imagined was there. Behind the it is so much more in every other respect. This mocking take on the 1992 Bad Lieu- nuity of e ect on the audience. tired devices, plot holes and Cage’s dizzying It deserves the same consideration as the tenant doesn’t begin to address what Herzog On a smaller scale, Herzog still pays the performance, we fi nd what Herzog must classic fi lms that made Herzog famous. adds. He claims he was drawn to the dark price for derivative, uninspiring material. have seen when he signed on to the project. story, but in usual fashion has no qualms Terrence’s superhuman abilities—not the To defi ne it might kill it, but it’s defi nitely [email protected]

Please join us for an Open House: December 8, 11:30-1:00 January 12, 11:30-1:00 ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 25

STAFF PLAYLIST CHICAGO AUDIOFILE

MINA BLOOM, ASSISTANT ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

DAVID BYRNE AND BRIAN ENO // STRANGE OVERTONES BAND OF SKULLS // FRIENDS BLONDIE // HEART OF GLASS CAMERA OBSCURA // HOUSEBOAT

MELODY GORDON, COPY EDITOR

DONNY HATHAWAY // THIS CHRISTMAS THE TEMPTATIONS // RUDOLF THE RED-NOSED REINDEER ’N SYNC // OH HOLY NIGHT ’N SYNC // IN LOVE ON CHRISTMAS

LAUREN KELLY, COMMENTARY EDITOR

Courtesy ERIC GEORGEVICH DO MAKE SAY THINK // ONTARIO PLATES SONGS: OHIA // FAREWELL TRANSMISSION (From left) King Sparrow consists of John McGeown on drums, Eric Georgevich on guitar and vocals and Sean Price on bass. EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY // INTO THE AIR PELICAN // CITY OF ECHOES Band of buddies rock it

LAURA NALIN, ASSISTANT CAMPUS EDITOR hard and steady

UMPHREY’S MCGEE // END OF THE ROAD by Cody Prentiss songs simple without excess fl uŽ . We have DELTA SPIRIT // CHILDREN Assistant Arts & Culture Editor a good formula there. MIDLAKE // KINGFISH PIES HARPER SIMON // WISHES AND STARS KING SPARROW’S music belies its size. The The Chronicle: When people come to group comprises only three members, but your live shows, how do you want them sounds like a marching band stomping to react? through the listener’s ear canal. The band accomplishes this minor feat with a heavy EG: I like it best when people can’t start mesh of guitar, drums and bass injected talking to their buddy next to them. with a shot of inertia and adrenaline. Everybody is transfi xed on us on stage, and Bassist Sean Price, guitarist Eric Geor- so far, that seems to be the reaction. We gevich and drummer John McGeown all want you to look at us when we’re playing attended Lane Technical High School where on stage and we’re not jumping around— Week ending Nov. 30, 2009 they played in a band together, but went it’s nothing inauthentic like that. You can their separate ways after graduation. Nearly feel intensity, which is what we’re going #1 Album Top tracks ( ) Last week’s ranking in top five nine years later, Georgevich ran into Price for. at The Globe Pub and struck up a conversa- United States tion with him. The two soon decided it was The Chronicle: Have you had anything Bad Romance • Lady GaGa (1) 1 time to start making music again and called terrible but funny happen to you? TiK ToK • Ke$ha (2) 2 McGeown to make the duo a trio. The Chronicle recently interviewed Geor- EG: When we recorded our EP, I was really Fireflies • Owl City (3) 3 gevich to see how the band has done since sick. I had a super high fever—it was 102— but we had scheduled that weekend to do The Fame they reunited. Replay • Iyaz (4) 4 the EP. So I was gargling whiskey, drinking Monster Meet Me Halfway • Black Eyed Peas (5) 5 tea and whiskey, but I had to bear through Lady GaGa The Chronicle: Why do you call yourselves King Sparrow? it. It sounded OK though. A couple of days later I lost my voice completely. United Kingdom Eric Georgevich: Well, we needed a name Russian Roulette • Rihanna 1 for our fi rst show. As I think most bands The Chronicle: I didn’t know gargling Meet Me Halfway • Black Eyed Peas (2) 2 do, you kind of get pushed into coming up whiskey would do that? Whatcha Say • Jason Derulo (1) 3 with a name. We liked the idea of big fi sh in a small pond, but I guess King Sparrow EG: I didn’t either. I was desperate, but it I Dreamed TiK ToK • Ke$ha (4) 4 is another way of explaining that same seemed to have worked—killed whatever a Dream idea. You can be a big sparrow, king of the was in my throat I guess. I came home Susan Boyle Bad Romance • Lady GaGa (5) 5 sparrows and then some eagle or crow and just sat in the tub for an hour or two comes and just knocks you in your place. exhausted, but at least it sounds like me Spain We were juggling a bunch of names, The and not someone else. Ayo Technology • Millow (1) 1 Rakes were taken. Most of the names we The Chronicle: Do you feel like the I Gotta Feeling • Black Eyed Peas (2) 2 liked were taken and apparently there’s a Calypso King Sparrow—actually he goes by modern punk scene is healthy? Quiero Apprender de Ti • El Canto del Loco 3 Mighty Sparrow, but people call him King EG: I guess I feel like it’s branched out into El Canto Looking for Paradise • Alejandro Sanz (3) 4 Sparrow, too. del Loco smaller niches. A few of my friends play El Canto Happy • Leona Lewis (5) 5 The Chronicle: There’s like a million in crust punk bands, and I’ve been to a bunch of grind core. I think that punk has, del Loco Source: iTunes © 2009 MCT bands in Chicago, so what makes your band unique? it’s not like pop punk that’s mainstream now. I think that it’s just going back to Follow The Chronicle on EG: Well, the main thing is our goal to the smaller DIY scene. These bands that not follow the trends and kind of stick to are really not worried about getting big or what Sean, Eric and John like. We’re super anything. It’s diŽ erent. It’s diŽ erent than tight, and I think one thing most people the punk shows I used to go to, but I’m note is that we’re only a three piece, but sure there are still a bunch of shows like we sound a lot fuller. We don’t sound like that. I think that it’s a lot smaller or just www.twitter.com/ccchronicle a three piece. I think when we play live, more diversifi ed into small niches. that’s the one thing that’s fi rst brought to most people’s attention. We just keep the [email protected] 26 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

TOP 5

Jeff Graveline, Assistant Health and Lauren Kelly, Commentary Editor Taylor Norris, Assistant Health and THEINSIDER.COM Fitness Editor Fitness Editor Woods gets clubbed? Things I like about being a “bro” Things to do over winter break Things that make my morning

I stand out at Columbia: At a school full of Brew alcohol: After coming across a 6:30 a.m.: When I wake up to see this time on On Nov. 27, Tiger Woods was injured in a hipsters, tight jeans and a lack of interest 10-gallon brewing jug a few months ago, I’ve the clock, I am reminded that I have plenty of car crash after he lost control of his Cadillac in sports, I truly am one of the most unique wanted to brew some good cider or beer. After time to wake up slowly and relax before I have Escalade outside of his estate in Isleworth, a blind first attempt that failed miserably, I to be out of my house and starting my day. people at this school. My baggy jeans and Fla. Woods’ wife used a golf club to smash baseball hat with a curved brim make me really want to get it right and have a bunch of Anything later makes me feel a little anxious, stand out more than you. alcohol ready for New Year’s Eve. and a rushed morning does not make the the back of his car window because she start to a good day. claimed the doors were probably locked, Basic personal hygiene: It don’ have to worry Read: Between writing dozens of articles for according to police reports. There’s question about things like, if my hair looks OK or if The Chronicle and doing endless work for my Coffee: Enough said, right? The bold taste as to whether his wife beat him up for being my guy-liner is on right. I can roll out of bed, classes, I’ve had little time for free-reading. I of black coffee, the heat in my palms, the unfaithful or if he was simply in a car crash. throw on a hat and head to class. No need to still indulged in novels, much to the detriment smell—especially if the night prior I’ve set Woods, who was released from the hospi- worry about “product,” make-up or any of that ofy m schoolwork, but I haven’t completely the coffee machine so it’s ready to go right tal in good condition, claims that his wife’s nonsense. My mornings involve brushing my sunk into a good read since summer. My list at 6:30 a.m.—coffee is one of the most actions were heroic, according to the golf teeth and taking a shower, something trendy for winter break is fairly long and includes irreplaceable elements of my every morning. superstar’s Web site. kids seem to ignore several days a week. Lord of the Rings and Dune among other epic (Ok,y and m afternoons, and sometimes early works of fiction. Although I don’t think I’ll evenings.) However, Woods has allegedly been cheat- Irony is lost on me: Being ironic isn’t complete everything I want to, I’m still excited ing on his wife since 2007, which could something I have to care about. I drink beer about crossing some titles off my list. Sunlight: It is so much easier to wake up with have potentially led to a golf club-related because I like it, not because it’s funny or the sun than without it. Winter mornings are a incident the night of his accident. Not only becauses it’ “working class.” I don’t have to Unpack the rest of my apartment, clean: I little miserable in their darkness. I love yellow do voicemails and text messages exist on worry about if my T-shirts are a reproduction moved into a new place on Halloween and morning light; I love being able to see where reputable news sites like The Huffington from a specific decade or whatever it is that still have a few boxes to unpack and a lot I am walking in the morning without needing Post, but Woods himself released a state- makes T-shirts trendy. Also, I don’t have of things to organize. The apartment could ton tur on a single light in the house. Sunlight ment about regretting his actions with “all to walk around looking like a skinny, poor use some cleaning, too. I’m excited (gasp!) makes me happy any time of day, but it is of his heart.” lumberjack since I don’t wear flannel, which is to clean and organize my place. It will be most important to me in the morning. a whole different story. relaxing to put on a good vinyl record, scrub Anyway, all of this sounds a bit ridiculous, my floor and uncover the carpet in my room. Prayer: yAll da long the world is loud and tells don’t you think? First, it’s amazingly tacky Indie garage bands—not my thing: People me things to do and tells me I need to meet to if Tiger’s wife beat him up with a golf club. have actually heard of the music I listen to Enjoy the winter season: Winter in Chicago its standards. I start every morning in prayer Second, I’m really bored by public figures andt I don’ have to act like I’m better than is brutal, but beautiful. I’m ready to cuddle so that I have a strong and peaceful mind, cheating on their spouses and the media everyone because I discovered this awesome indoors during a glorious snow storm and and that I may keep my priorities straight and frenzy that erupts as a result. I’ve been disil- band in my neighbor’s garage. sip peppermint tea, then go out into the still respond well throughout the day to come. lusioned by the oh-so-scandalous tabloids streets for a snowy adventure. for quite some time now. My pants fit: Probably the best thing about Jake: Although he wakes up later than I, On a strictly personal level, you are a jack- being a “bro.” I don’t need somebody to help NOTHING!: The main thing I’m excited for is my husband is usually up in time for some mey into m jeans and zip them for me. The to do nothing for days at a time. What better prayer, breakfast and a little morning jig— ass, Tiger Woods. I say this as if you were skin-tight look isn’t good on guys, no matter way is there to relax after a long semester which is extra funny when he’s still so tired. a normal, non-celebrity because cheating what the person who sold you your spandex thany pla The Sims, watch “Futurama” and I sometimes feel like I’ve had an entire day tends to destroy families. jeans told you. exhaust Netflix’s instant viewing? beforee Jak wakes up, but it wouldn’t be as lovely without adding him to the picture. —M. Bloom

she found good buys during Black Friday, such as her featured cardigan and under- top from TJ Maxx. She said that Indian and Asian cultures also shape her style along with classic looks from some famous faces of Old Hollywood. “[The flower is] kind of like a Billie Hol- iday-type thing and then people say I also look like Corinne Bailey Rae, so I kind of play off of that,” Hall said. “It’s just some- thing to add when I don’t feel like wearing a lot of jewelry.” Alexandria Hall, a sophomore art and On the day The Chronicle talked with her, design major at Columbia, dresses in she said her outfit was still casual and not natural, earthy clothes with a design- overdone. The weather was cold with snow for-a-dime twist. flurries, but she wore a leather jacket in by Katherine Gamby order to keep her look fashionable. Oriana Riley THE CHRONICLE Assistant Arts & Culture Editor “The inspiration was not too much going on, but still something natural, simple, ALEXANDRIA HALL, a sophomore art and something that I layer or unlayer,” Hall said. design major at Columbia, said her style is She said she still has fall on the brain and natural—even down to the roots of her hair. thinks little of winter trends. A warm, layered look is the normal outfit “Winter is more of that casual sweat- she wears, which is sometimes inspired pants, hoody type of thing going on … by her job. because we don’t really have the time or “I do work at The Buckle, so I’m really energy for clothing … it’s all about a nice into denim and layering,” Hall said. “I get coat,” Hall said. inspired by different cultures … I like really Some winter trends this year include earthy and natural types of looks.” boots, both over-the-knee and ankle boo- Aside from shopping at The Buckle, Hall ties, fur and cashmere jackets, purple acces- gets some of her apparel from Forever 21 and sories, as well as accessories with tassels Plato’s Closet. She said she likes to browse and lots of lace. through vintage racks to find bargains and items that no one else will have. She said [email protected] ARTS & CULTURE I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 27

REVIEWS SIIIIIIIIICK SHOULDER SHRUG NOT BAD, NOT BAD WORTH A GIGGLE HAPPY DANCE!

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EATING THE DINOSAUR BY CHUCK KLOSTERMAN DC’S GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #6 BY GUILLEM MARCH TIGER AND THE SALAHIS: TWO KINDS OF CELEBRITY At the zenith of Chuck Klosterman’s four consecutively prolific This ongoing comic book series features a lot of boobs. Some CRASH BY JAMES PONIEWOZIK tomes of essays, and last year’s successful venture into novel of the most popular female characters from Gotham City are Isn’t everyone sick of hearing about Tiger Woods’ marital prob- writing, Klosterman fans may have been expecting too much from back. Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn are dealing with lems, and how the Salahis cannot get enough attention and his latest, Eating the Dinosaur. While the crotchety commentator the fallout of The Joker’s little secret, while Harley is trying to resorted to crashing the White House? This article describes delivers a considerable amount of culture analyses and journal- solve her own problems. It’s a classic issue with very impressive them as “attention seekers.” That’s exactly what Time is doing ism fodder, Eating the Dinosaur pales in comparison to its five artwork by Guillem March.—C. Aguirre by writing yet another story about it. Stop already! It’s just feeding older brothers and sisters.—C.Shook their pathetic, media-driven ego.—S. Roush no smiles no smiles MOVIES / TV / DVD

NINJA ASSASSIN THE BLACK DAHLIA ONDEMAND WITH TIME WARNER CABLE

Ninja Assassin delivers exactly what the title promises—it’s about Aaron Eckhart as Lee Blanchard: awesome. Josh Hartnett as I don’t know how I would have survived Thanksgiving break if On a ninja named Raizo who used to be an assassin. However, a Bucky Bleichert: try watching Hartnett “cry” and not cringe. Eck- Demand did not exist. I spent many hours wrapped in blankets betrayal by his ninja clan leads him on a blood-soaked path of hart did a great job sustaining Blanchard’s obsession of the on my parents’ couch purchasing movie after movie just to pass action-packed vengeance. The plot is really more of a device to Black Dahlia that progressed into his downfall in the James Ell- the night hours while everyone was asleep. I caught up on movies get from one ninja battle to the other, but I didn’t mind. The dis- roy book, while Bleichert’s obsession of her was lost. I suggest I missed in theaters and then I felt bad for the $3.99 that each memberings and gallons of fake blood were top-notch.—D. LaCoco reading the book first.—A. Meade movie cost. Oh well, sorry Mom and Dad, but I had to.—C. Shively

MUSIC

G-DRAGON: HEARTBREAKER LIL WAYNE: “GO DJ” THE DODOS: TIME TO DIE American Pop has come to a standstill and K-Pop (a.k.a Korean I love this song more with each successive listen. It’s off Tha Meh … I’m not too impressed with the third album from The Pop) is still, well, poppin’! G-Dragon, member of the Korean boy Carter and the lyrical flow is unmatched. It’s impossible to give Dodos. It has catchy moments, but it lacks the spirit of adventure band Big Bang, released his solo album Heartbreaker worldwide an example of said lyrics because they’re amazingly vulgar. All I the band’s sophomore release, Visiter, was infused with. Time to at the end of August 2009. This review is tardy, but if any track could think of over Thanksgiving was that I’m thankful for Weezy. Die is OK as background music, but won’t be a main album on from this album is played at party, you won’t be. It’s so enjoyable You cheer me up day after day with your sheer ridiculousness! my turntable this winter.—L. Kelly that you get past not understanding Korean. (He artfully switches —M. Bloom back and forth from Korean and English anyway, so you’ll get the gist of each song).—K. Obomanu

RANDOM

FIGHTING ILLINI BASEBALL CAP OLD PLAYLISTS DAIRY QUEEN CHEESEBURGER This hat could have been cool, but after seeing it almost every I always make a playlist per month where I put all the new music My laziness and natural sloth make DQ a necessary evil when day on someone’s head, it needs to go away. I have nothing I’ve found during that time, and it is nice to look back and listen I’m stuck at school all day, but I’d die before I ate another burger against the Fighting Illini, it’s just this specific old, raggedy hat. to them. I love looking on the sidebar of my iTunes and seeing from the Blizzard king. The meat has a weird taste that’s decidedly It needs to go into retirement. So if you come by this hat, stand ones entitled “4th of J” or “April ’09.” They not only contain not cow-like, which ruins the entire meal. Stick to blizzards for back and find other ways to hide your receding hairline. Try a wig memories, but also give me a chance to rediscover some music the sake of your taste buds. The worst thing you’ll get is a brain or something.—C. Aguirre I may have accidentally put on the backburner over time. Thanks, freeze.—C. Prentiss iTunes!—L. Nalin no smiles no smiles 28 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

Editorials Columbia sometimes too liberal COLUMBIA HAS historically been a liberal of an Army recruitment center or walking institution, from its founding in 1890 to its in an LGBT rights march. But would teach- resurrection in the 1960s during a peak of ers offer incentives if a student were part of political change. As an open-admissions a pro-life demonstration? college, Columbia attracted freethinking However inadvertent as it may be, some students and professors that cultivated teachers push agendas. It is inappropri- an open mindset. Former Executive Vice ate to have students participate in a union President Albert Gall was even arrested workers strike for a midterm grade, even during Chicago’s infamous 1968 Demo- voluntarily, without exploring manage- cratic National Convention. ment’s viewpoint. Furthermore, it is not This liberal attitude has stayed with necessary to know the political leanings of Columbia through decades of develop- your Fundamentals of Speech Communica- ment. Now it dictates the tone of class- tion teacher. rooms and the direction of discussions. Teachers need to be more conscious of Conservative viewpoints are often miss- what information they are presenting and ing, and a curriculum that only recognizes how it is presented. Education should stress MCT Campus select parts of a social dialogue stifles every learning about all sides of issues. Politiciz- student’s education. ing students is ineffective. Of course, Columbia is a liberal arts There are classes, however, where politi- school. Liberalism is often attached to the cal discussion is completely relevant. Then, arts, and most students expect a certain it falls not only to the teacher to present all campus environment—especially in a Dem- sides, but to students to think critically and ocratic hub like Chicago. That said, there work toward a balanced debate. While most are still conservative students that choose students in the conversation may be liberal, Columbia and everyone should acknowl- it is everyone’s responsibility to listen to edge, respect and learn from every part of and respect any opposing viewpoint. the campus population. We cannot be the open-minded school we In classrooms, some teachers have offered claim to be if we do not welcome conser- extra credit for participating in politically vative viewpoints, along with every other charged events, like protesting the opening opinion out there. City shouldn’t privatize more services JUST NINE months after Chicago leased its Instead of leasing more public services parking meters to a private company in a to private companies, the city should MCT Campus quick deal, Mayor Richard M. Daley made try to find funds elsewhere and not sell a statement that any city service is up for such a vital city resource. The potential sale given the right price, according to the downsides of leasing the water supply Chicago Tribune Editorial Board. to a private entity are too numerous Chicago is still in financial trouble for The Chronicle’s Editorial Board to despite the $1.15 billion meter deal with support a sale. Chicago Parking Meters LLC in February, But if city officials do decide to lease and the city is now reportedly open to sell- more public services to private firms, ing off other services to keep its funding accountability is unquestionably needed— afloat. The latest option being discussed is both from the company purchasing the to privatize the entire water system. service and city of Chicago officials. This is an even worse idea than leasing There should be stipulations in the con- the parking meters and would not benefit tract that limit how much a company can the city in the long run. A company’s main hike prices and specify details about the goal is to make a profit, not serve people. level of service it should be required to pro- Many other cities in Illinois who have vide. Also, before finalizing the lease, city private water systems, such as Boling- officials need to approve a budget detail- brook and Homer Glen, have seen prices ing how the money received from the deal rise drastically. will be spent. The privatization of any public service These precautions would help prevent invites the risk that the company buying the city from spending the money made it will take advantage of customers and from the deal irresponsibly, as well as hold drastically raise prices while providing the companies involved in the contract less consistent service to make a higher responsible for providing a low-cost, safe profit margin. service to Chicagoans. MCT Campus

Editorial Board Members Have an opinion about something you read in this newspaper?

Cristina Aguirre Multimedia Editor Laura Nalin Assistant Campus Editor Did you catch a mistake, think we could have covered a story better or believe strongly about an issue Eleanor Blick Contributing Writer Emi Peters Copy Chief that faces all of us here at Columbia? Melody Gordon Copy Editor Cody Prentiss Assistant A&C Editor Why not write a letter to the editor? At the bottom of page 2, you’ll find a set of guidelines on how to do Lauren Kelly Commentary Editor Ciara Shook Assistant Campus Editor this. Let us hear from you. Amber Meade Copy Editor —The Columbia Chronicle Editorial Board COMMENTARY I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 29 Winter season doesn’t mean you should forfeit cuteness

“When did lose all sense of reason when it comes top as a dress with opaque leggings and ing mismatched winter accessories. people to fashion. It’s almost as if they’re com- pumps, falling over herself with a limp A lot of the time, I feel like we Chicago- determine that pletely blinded by their disdain for slush cigarette between her fingers, sobbing ans are so disillusioned by cold weather it’s socially and have completely forgotten how to into her bedazzled cell phone while shiv- that we neglect the wholesome ideas of unacceptable to dress themselves. ering and openly complaining about how sledding, hot chocolate, snowball fights look cute and Instead of using winter as an excuse cold it is outside of a bar at 3 a.m. You’re and accessory shopping. More people marshmallow- to find cute, unique accessories, women not wearing a jacket and it’s 32 degrees. should check out holiday do-it-yourself like during the shell out almost $200 for UGG Boots every That’s why you’re cold. You sacrificed your craft sales for mittens with buttons on season, which are quite possibly the comfort and you run the risk of catch- them. Or, hey, here’s a novel idea—you wintertime?” “ugg”-liest “fashion footwear” to grace ing pneumonia for a chance to have a could even knit yourself something that’s the planet. UGG feet look big, round and one-night stand. 100 percent unique. Falling prey to the cli- by Mina Bloom cartoonish—except not in the cute kind I’m also extremely saddened by the chéd trends—which aren’t actually trendy Assistant Arts & Culture Editor of way. Yes, I know, it’s like walking on a amount of matching winter accessories I in the first place—is not your only option. cloud all day long and, yes, they were made witness on a daily basis. A red, cable-knit I’m fully aware that I’ll inevitably run WITNESSING THE first pristine, white in Australia with genuine sheepskin. Call scarf with red, cable-knit gloves topped into my personal fashion faux pas all snowflakes dance atop my car wind- me crazy, I just think there are more origi- off with a red, cable-knit hat just makes winter long, but I’m merely suggesting shield in early December can be a rather nal boots for sale that are more affordable me sick to my stomach. When did people that you, Chronicle readers, break the heart-warming experience. I must admit and—get this—are actually weather resis- determine that it’s socially unaccept- mold a little bit. Replace your UGGs with though, snow becomes considerably less tant! I can handle below-freezing temper- able to look cute and marshmallow-like some one-of-a-kind boots from a local romantic when I’m exposed to a bounty of atures, but flared jeans tucked into UGG during the wintertime? Wear a hat with boutique. Be bold and wear floral print hideous UGG Boots, scantily-clad women Boots literally make me cringe. A facemask ear flaps that you acquired in the 4th grade gloves. Ask your mom if you can borrow her in less-than-appropriate attire for club- can protect you from intense wind, but and a scarf your sister’s cousin knit you vintage-inspired scarf. I’m begging you. bing purposes and a plethora of disgust- what can I buy to protect me from glanc- last summer at day camp. Eclectic winter Just embrace the amount of layers you’ll ing, matching winter accessories, among ing in the direction of those shapeless, accessories are endearing. Let us not forget be sporting for the next four months. I other things. chestnut-colored monstrosities? the adorability of when our mothers made promise that the quirky items you choose While most people admittedly hate UGG Boots aside, I have a hard time us wear hats with pom-poms and little will continually make you smile during Chicago’s winter months (also known as wrapping my head around the mini-dress puffy coats. I see no reason not to continue the grayest months of the year. half of the year), it’s safe to assume that and stiletto look in January. You know the looking adorable as an adult. And nothing some people hate it so much that they type. It’s the girl who wears a sequined says adorable like a gaggle of friends wear- [email protected]

Percent of NBC Thousands of copies the RedEye Billions of dollars Chicago City Height, in Universal that will be newspaper will distribute daily Council approved for the 2010 feet, of 51 bought by Comcast beginning Jan. 4, up from its current Chicago budget in the largest in a deal valued at circulation of 200,000 copies, a vote of 38 - 12, Christmas 18.5 approximately $30 billion, according according to a according to a Dec. tree in the to a Dec. 3 New York Times article. Dec. 2 Chicago 6.1 3 Chicago Tribune White House, according to a Nov. The deal, which was agreed upon Tribune article. article. The approved plan borrows 28 MSNBC article. The Douglas fir, after nine months of negotiations, 250This increased heavily from funds the city gained located in the famous Blue Room, creates a large power shift in the circulation will make the RedEye through the sale of its parking was delivered to the Obama family entertainment industry. the largest circulated free daily meters earlier this year. from a farm in Shepherdstown, newspaper in Chicago. W.Va. on Nov. 27, the day after Thanksgiving. Spirit of holiday season obscured by material obsession “It seems past few years, and I am not looking for- toy, Tickle-Me-Elmo or Furby, regardless born on Dec. 25, year zero. Americans are ward to celebrating another soul sucking, of the unseen impacts. After asking a few dozen people what celebrating routine Christmas with a family I don’t The obsession with Christmas shop- Christmas means to them, I’ve realized Christmas in particularly care for. ping has become so intense that it’s caus- that the answer is different for everyone. a completely When I was younger, I loved the holiday ing fatalities—literally. On Black Friday For some it’s about spending time with inauthentic way for the reason most kids do—you get a in 2008, a Wal-Mart employee in Long family, for others it’s about the food and lot of free toys. Now it’s just an excuse Island, N.Y. was trampled to death as a mob drink and for others still, it’s about wor- that is contrary to drink too much wine and eat an of shoppers stampeded the store when it shiping the birth of baby Jesus. I like a to the traditional unhealthy amount of mashed potatoes opened. During the incident, a pregnant nice dinner, red wine and the smell of gin- intention of the and toffee squares. woman also suffered minor injuries and gerbread cookies, but that’s not enough to holiday.” But besides the drab routine of gift- was taken to the hospital. keep the magic of the season alive for me. by Lauren Kelly giving and family dinner, I’m realizing Besides being tragic, the fact that there There isn’t really a “true meaning of Commentary Editor there is a much darker side to the “season are Christmas casualties is unsettling. Christmas.” It’s completely subjective. of giving” that many people glaze over. Maybe I’m being overly negative, but it The only positive thing I could see IN EVERY holiday movie that is shown on The utter consumer frenzy known as seems Americans are celebrating Christ- myself celebrating, besides seemingly cable TV in December, there’s inevitably a Christmas costs much more than the mas in a completely inauthentic way that infinite toffee squares, is the winter sol- character who has lost faith in the season price that appears on shoppers’ receipts. is contrary to the traditional intention of stice. Dec. 21 is the shortest day of the year, and has no Christmas spirit. These famous The environmental impact alone is the holiday. Many people in this country so that means every day after that will characters, from the Grinch to Scrooge, abominable. Between the never-ending think celebrating the holidays means be slightly longer, probably a much-wel- always find the true meaning of Christ- gift wrap, packaging, plastic toys that buying hundreds of dollars worth of prod- comed thought for any Chicagoan living mas by the end of the film and everyone break after a week and never-worn sweat- ucts, in effect putting a monetary value on through a notorious Windy City winter. is happy. ers being thrown in the garbage, we are their loved ones. I’m not sure if my heart is two sizes too I am very much a Grinch during the clearly hurting the earth by consuming But what is the real meaning of Christ- small, or if my brain thinks about things holidays, but I don’t see myself having an so much. The majority of Americans are mas? Is there one? twice as hard. Either way, I’m going to try epiphany and suddenly being overcome content in celebrating Christmas by pur- As a child, I was told by my Catholic get through this holiday season without with Christmas joy at the end of this year’s chasing silly, cheap gifts from a big box relatives that we were celebrating Jesus’ being trampled. festivities. I’ve become severely disen- store and caving in to their screaming birthday, but even at age 9 I knew it was a chanted by the winter holidays during the child’s demands for a Hannah Montana sham. It’s highly unlikely Jesus was really [email protected] 30 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

Giorgio Avigdor. #23 Sconosciuta Brandizzo 1, 1970. Silver salt print. 8 × 11¾ in. Artist’s collection

Italy is full of contradictions. Past, present. Church, sex. High design and ancient ruins. Don’t miss the US premiere of Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968–2008. More than 100 works from 75 artists will grapple with these concepts through painting, video, sculpture, sound, and photography. Organized by Francesco Bonami, curator of the upcoming 2010 Whitney Biennial.

Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968–2008 is co-organized by the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, and Palazzo Grassi, Venice, Italy-the François Pinault Foundation. O;cial Airline of the Museum of Contemporary Art METRO I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 31

Consumers will pay down debt before shopping New poll finds people are spending less; Feds offer tips on protecting credit

by Jennifer Waters MCT Newswire

ANY WINDFALLS consumers get this holiday season are far more likely to be used to pay down debt than to splurge on additional shopping, a new survey finds. The latest poll from the National Foun- dation of Credit Counseling has consum- ers overwhelmingly opting to pay down existing debt if an extra $500 should come their way. The online poll, which attracted more than 8,500 respondents—the most ever for a poll by the organization—found that 77

Courtesy of DEB MELL and FRIENDS FOR JOE LAIACONA percent said they would pay down debt, while an additional 14 percent said that a State Rep. Deb Mell (left) recently succeeded in having candidate Joe Laiacona’s (right) objection to her nomination papers dismissed. The Board of Election Commissioners of the City of Chicago ruled unanimously that Mell’s papers were valid and that she would appear on the ballot for the Feb. 2 Democratic primary. windfall would be put into savings. Only Laiacona’s attorney, Richard Means, said that his client was still deciding if he would appeal the decision to the Cook County Circuit Court. 7 percent said they would spend it to put more presents under the tree while a mere 2 percent said they would buy for themselves. The results are in line with the Federal Reserve’s reports of declining debt. Last month marked the eighth straight month Laiacona objection denied of shrinking consumer credit as Americans slashed $14.8 billion in debt in Septem- Columbia instructor Laiacona’s attorney, Richard Means, had no express requirement … that a candidate ber, the latest numbers available, to bring faces challenge in previously expressed confidence the objec- be a registered or qualified voter.” the total down to $2.46 trillion. That’s the Democratic primary tion would succeed, but he too said he was The electoral board agreed with Good- lowest level since June 2007. not surprised by the board’s decision. He man’s assessment. “If there’s a silver lining to the financial by Patrick Smith did, however, add that he and Laiacona did “It’s a legal quibble and they’re argu- meltdown, it is that consumers are now Assistant Metro Editor not agree with it. ing that the law has an inference, but it becoming more engaged with their person- “There’s a whole lot of things we disagree doesn’t directly say that they have to be al financial situation and are doing some- COLUMBIA TEACHER Joe Laiacona probably with,” Means said. registered voters,” Means said. “But I read thing about it,” said NFCC spokeswoman won’t be running unopposed in February’s As previously reported in The Chronicle it differently.” Gail Cunningham. Democratic primary because his objections on Nov. 16, Laiacona filed his objections to Means and Laiacona have until Dec. 11 to That, coupled with mixed results from to opponent state Rep. Deb Mell’s nomina- the incumbent Mell’s nomination papers decide if they want to appeal the decision the heavily-promoted Black Friday week- tion papers for candidacy were overruled by on Nov. 9. Those objections contended to the circuit court. end, doesn’t bode well for the busiest shop- the Board of Election Commissioners of the that Mell’s papers were invalid, and she “We may proceed to the circuit court and ping season of the year. The National Retail City of Chicago. was ineligible to run for re-election in the have the circuit court tell us what the rule Federation’s Black Friday shopping survey The decision was made by a unanimous Democratic primary because she was not is,” Means said. found that more people went out shopping, vote of three election commissioners registered to vote at the address listed on Even if he decides not to appeal the deci- but spent less than they did a year ago. on Dec. 1 and announced a day later. The her form. sion, Laiacona said that he is confident he According to the survey, conducted by three commissioners made up an electoral Ken Menzel, legal counsel for the Illinois will defeat Mell in the Democratic primary BIGresearch, 195 million shoppers visited board, chaired by Commissioner Langdon State Board of Elections, said that objec- on Feb. 2. stores and Web sites over Black Friday Neal, and organized to hear and rule upon tions like Laiacona’s are rare because candi- “I think my take on the issues reflects weekend, 13.3 percent over last year. But Laiacona’s objections. dates do not usually make the sort of error the needs of our society, and that’s why I they spent 8.5 percent less per person, or Laiacona said he was not surprised by the Mell did. put out a platform,” Laiacona said. “Most $343.31, and were driven only by deep dis- decision because an election board hearing Mell filed a motion to dismiss Laiacona’s candidates don’t do platforms anymore counts, two-for-one deals and rebates. officer had already recommended his objec- objection, and Hearing Officer Barbara Good- … they want to rely on personality and While the Federal Reserve doesn’t want tion be dismissed. Laiacona also said that man heard arguments from Mell’s attorney, machines and I believe that’s the downfall to discourage consumers from shopping, it he was not disappointed in the decision, Michael Kasper, and from Means on Nov. 24. of democracy.” is offering advice through an unprecedent- saying, it’s just life. In her motion to dismiss, Mell confirmed In his effort to make the campaign more ed series of ads at movie houses on how to “Although I felt we had an open and shut that she was not registered to vote at the issue-based, Laiacona said that he sent out protect your credit when the sale signs are case, I didn’t know there was such a growing address she listed on her nomination everywhere. loophole in election law,” Laiacona added. papers. But Goodman found that “there is x SEE LAIACONA, PG. 34 Here are the Fed’s tips: Pay on time. Paying your credit card account on time helps you avoid late fees as well as penalty interest rates applied AccuWeather.com Seven-day forecast for Chicago Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2009 to your account, and helps you maintain MONDAY MON. NIGHT TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY a good credit record. A good credit record leads to a higher credit score, which helps you qualify for lower interest rates. Know the date your payment is due. If your bill is due at an inconvenient time of the month— for example, if it’s due on the 10th and you get paid on the 15th—contact your credit Snow or flurries Mostly cloudy Mainly cloudy and Snow or flurries Mostly cloudy and Partly sunny; not Sunny to partly Clouds limiting card company to see if they will change possible breezy possible colder as cold cloudy sun your billing cycle to fit your cash flow. High 34 Low 23 High 37 High 33 High 22 High 31 High 27 High 30 Stay below your credit limit. If you go Low 28 Low 17 Low 13 Low 16 Low 25 Low 17 x SEE DEBT, PG. 34 32 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

William Boyd Jr. - Democrat Corey Dabney - Democrat Alexi Giannoulias - Democrat David Hoffman - Democrat Cheryle Robinson Jackson - Democrat Boyd became a minister in the early Dabney is listed as the chief In November 2006, Giannoulias From 1998 to 2005, Hoffman Jackson is the president of the `90s and has lectured/ministered executive officer of Indiana Dabney was elected the state treasurer of worked as an assistant U.S. Chicago Urban League and was in Africa, China and areas in the University and his Web site, Illinois. He also formerly served attorney general in Chicago. In born and raised on Chicago’s South United Kingdom. He was also Corey2010.com, stated he has had on the board of directors of the 2005, he became inspector general Side. Jackson believes one of the elected as the first African-American 20 years of business experience. It Community Bankers Association. of the city of Chicago. Early this year keys to rebuilding the economy is to on the Greenville City Council in also said he owned and operated a He calls himself a “progressive” he was appointed by Gov. Pat Quinn stop spending “trillions [of dollars] Bond County. Boyd has two children. janitorial company. Democrat. to the Illinois Reform Commission. overseas in wars of choice.”

Meet the candidates competing for President Barack Obama’s former Senate seat in 2010.

Some experts and party leaders have said Robert Marshall - Democrat Jacob Meister - Democrat John Arrington - GOP next year will be the GOP’s best chance in years to have a Republican senator from story Marshall is a war veteran and a Meister has practiced law for In 1995, Arrington was elected as physician. He practices at hospitals nearly 20 years and in 2002, he Alderman for Harvey City Council Illinois, but the fight over the identity of the in Kankakee and Joliet. For two opened his own law firm. Before and was involved in community party could prevent a victory. See the arti- years Marshall worked with Obama’s beginning his law career, Meister projects in the south suburbs. cle on the next page for more information. campaign in neighboring states. He worked under federal and state He currently owns a management has also been involved in many governments, including working as consulting business with his wife. community activities, including special-projects assistant under Arrington was also a candidate being a former board of directors Congressman Jim Moody involving in 2004 for U.S. Senate in the member of PAV YMCA in Berwyn. different tasks. Republican special election.

Patrick Hughes - GOP Mark Kirk - GOP Don Lowery - GOP Andy Martin - GOP Kathleen Thomas - GOP

Hughes is as a real estate developer Kirk has represented the 10th After serving 26 years as a Circuit As a perennial candidate, Martin Thomas taught at several different and the chairman of Sensible Congressional District of Illinois and Court Judge in the First Judicial has ran for political offices many colleges, including Florida A&M, Taxpayers Opposed to Increased is a part of the House Appropriations Circuit in Illinois, Lowery retired in times, including an unsuccessful Florida University and Lincoln Taxes. He lobbied against a major Committee. He is a member of the 2006. While retired, Lowery hosted run for president in 1999. He Land Community College. She tax increase on Illinois. Prior to his Army Reserves and was named a public affairs show called “Focus” has also been involved in many has had articles published in real estate career, Hughes worked “Intelligence Officer of the Year” by on WGGH-AM 1150 in Marion, Ill. political controversies and has filed magazines and is currently as a commercial litigator with the U.S. Navy in 1999. Kirk also Lowery also served in the U.S. Army numerous lawsuits over the past 40 employed by Illinois Historic multiple firms. served in the Afghanistan War. prior to attending college. years for a variety of reasons. Preservation Agency.

Robert Zadek - GOP LeAlan Jones - Green Mike Labno - Libertarian John Blyth - Independent Stan Jagla - Independent

Zadek worked with government Jones, as a 13-year-old in 1993, After a six-month layoff from his According to JohnBlyth.com, Blyth A Roselle businessman, Jagla officials involving zoning,recorded an audio documentary for previous job, Labno now works is not a politician, which he said has lived in Illinois since 1987. engineering, site planning and National Public Radio called “Ghetto for an electrical union contractor. makes him an appealing candidate. He is a graduate of Northeastern development. He retired as a Life 101.” In 1996, he created a He has been a volunteer for Blyth opened his own business Illinois University. He believes the mortgage broker, but currently works second documentary on a public the World Security Bureau, an selling health insurance in 1993, U.S. needs to restore fair taxes by in real estate in Illinois. Zadeck housing murder. He has won many organization that attempts to where he currently works. Prior providing a permanent tax break also worked as a secretary and prestigious awards for both of help women affected by domestic to selling insurance, Blyth had a for the middle class and small treasurer for a major automotive his pieces. Jones is a resident in violence. Labno went to college for career as a journeyman bricklayer businesses. Jagla ran in the and aerospace company. Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. mechanical engineering. in Local 21. 2008 primaries as a Democrat. METRO I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 33

because the Illinois Democratic brand has been damaged and at the national level, there is less energy.” But it’s not just the faltering of Demo- Best crats that has Republicans feeling optimis- tic about 2010. According to the campaign manager for Republican candidate Patrick Hughes, in the past two years conservatives have become more active and involved in chance politics. And he said that is going to have a big impact in 2010. “The conservative base is very motivated and very excited about the 2010 elections,” said campaign manager Mike Sullivan. “We in years haven’t seen, in a long time, a conservative base that is really wanting to be involved in Republicans poised to win a grass roots way.” Illinois Senate seat in 2010 if Hughes, a real estate developer, got divisions don’t derail their plans involved recently in politics at the grass roots level when he organized the conserva- by Patrick Smith Courtesy PATRICK HUGHES FOR SENATE tive group Sensible Taxpayers Opposed to Assistant Metro Editor Patrick Hughes (upper left) is a Hinsdale real estate developer running for U.S. Senate in 2010. Hughes Increased Taxes. He formed the organiza- is running as a traditional Conservative, and said that his opponent, Rep. Mark Kirk, is not. tion in January 2009 to fi ght against Gov. IT WAS almost 10 years ago that Peter Pat Quinn’s proposed income tax increase. Fitzgerald became a United States senator. “If the Republicans are going to get a seat, Curt Conrad, executive director of the After the increase was defeated, Hughes January 1999 was the fi rst time in more U.S. senator from Illinois, this is as good Republican Party in Illinois, believes that began talking with other conservatives than 30 years that Illinois voters sent a an opportunity as has existed since … “the Republican party is going to come out about a possible candidacy for Senate. Republican senator to Washington. Fitzgerald won,” said Redfi eld, a professor pretty strong” across Illinois. Fueled by GOP front runner Rep. Mark According to Kent Redfi eld, the interim of Political Science at the University of “I think we have a great chance across Kirk’s vote in favor of the cap-and-trade director for the Institute of Legislative Illinois Springfi eld. the state of Illinois,” Conrad said. “With the energy bill in the U.S. House of Representa- Studies, the coming election in 2010 could Controversy has surrounded current business climate, jobs are leaving Illinois, tives, Hughes decided that the party needed o„ er the GOP its best chance since Fitzger- Democratic Sen. Roland Burris, who was people have had enough. And with the cor- a “real conservative” candidate. ald defeated incumbent Carol Mosley Braun appointed by the scandal-plagued Blagojev- ruption factor with Rod Blagojevich ... the “As far as a lot of typical Republican to win an Illinois Senate seat, but divisions ich shortly before the former governor was people of Illinois are ready for a change.” values go, Mark Kirk just didn’t stand with within the party could prevent a victory. impeached. Burris was recently admon- Redfi eld agreed with Conrad, and added the conservative base of the Republican Because of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s ished by the Senate Ethics Committee for the fact that Democrats are in power Party,” Sullivan said. impeachment and removal from oŽ ce, not disclosing that he had several conver- nationally could have a negative impact Along with his cap-and-trade vote, growing discontent with President Barack sations with the governor and his brother on whomever is the Democratic nominee. Hughes’ Web site criticizes Kirk for not Obama’s administration and the state’s about fund raising for Blagojevich before he “There’s no question that there’s going to supporting a strong national defense, not financial problems, experts and party was appointed. Burris will not be seeking be some fallout from the Democrats being standing up for the second amendment, for leaders say Republicans are poised to seri- election. in charge,” Redfi eld said. “This is about being “pro-abortion” and for voting against ously challenge the Democrats in a bid for While he cautioned that the party would as good of a shot as you’re going to get at Obama’s former Senate seat. have to “work hard” in order to win the electing a Republican senator from Illinois » SEE GOP, PG. 36 DELILAH’S 2771 N. Lincoln * (773) 472-2771 PUNK ROCK MONDAYS JIMMY $1 American Beer LUNCH $2 Jim Beam LUNCH LIKE MOM USED TO MAKE Free Pool & Fun !!! SOUTH LOOP CLUB BAR & GRILL ( ( ( ( 701 S. State St. Corner of State & Balbo Sunday-Friday 11am-4am Saturday 11am-5am 312.427.2787 TO FIND THE LOCATION FEATURING:FEATURING: ESPN GAMES NEAREST YOU VISIT NEED A GAME? COLLEGE GAMES JIMMYJOHNS.COM SLC HAS IT! THE ENTIRE NFL PACKAGE

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advance, withdraw enough so that you xx DEBT don’t have to take a second cash advance Continued from PG. 31 and incur a second fee later in the month. MORE (môr) Read your credit card agreement to learn over your credit limit on your card, your more about the fees that your credit card adj: To a greater or higher degree. card issuer could charge a fee and increase company charges. your interest rate to a higher penalty rate. Pay more than the minimum payment. To avoid this, keep a record of your spend- If you can’t pay your balance in full each ing or check your balances online. Also, be month, try to pay as much of the total as aware that some merchants—for example, you can. Over time, you’ll pay less in inter- hotel and car rental companies—put a est charges—money that you will be able to “hold” on your credit card based on their spend on other things—and you’ll pay off EXPECT MORE estimate of the amount you will charge. your balance sooner. This can reduce your available credit until Watch for changes in the terms of your with the Morris Graduate School of Management the final charge is processed. account. Credit card companies can change Avoid unnecessary fees. Credit card the terms and conditions of your account. companies not only charge late-payment They will send you advance notices about • More flexibility: with online and lunch and over-the-limit fees, but also fees for changes in fees, interest rates, billing and cash advances, transferring balances and other features. By reading these “change in hour classes. having a payment returned. Some compa- terms” notices, you can decide whether you nies charge a fee when you pay your bill by want to change the way you use the card. • More for your money: with one of the phone. Pay attention to the transactions that trigger these fees. If you need a cash [email protected] lowest tuitions in the greater Chicago area.

the fact that he said he is a leather fetishist. • More access: with 8 convenient locations. xx LAIACONA The Reader questioned whether a “leath- Continued from PG. 31 er master” could win an election, but Lai- acona said that he is not concerned and an invitation to Mell asking her to meet added that the people who have a problem him for three debates. with his sex life would not have voted for “If she and I sit down in front of the him in the first place. public and the press and talk about the “I’m a politician who can be honest about issues, I think I am going to win hands my sex life, and there are a lot of politicians down,” Laiacona said. who aren’t honest,” said Laiacona, who’s the A division of ROBERT MORRIS UNIVERSITY Mell’s office said they had not received author of several books on master and slave any such invitation, and the representative leather fetishism. “Honesty about my sex declined recent requests for comment. life means I will be honest as a politician.” Laiacona has received attention recently If elected, Laiacona said he is consider- EXPECT MORE.BE MORE. because of this objection and because of ing proposing an amendment to the state’s a recent front-page profile in the Chicago election law requiring that a candidate to Reader. The article, “A Kink in the Cam- the legislature be an active registered voter. 800.225.1520 l masters.robertmorris.edu paign,” focused on Laiacona’s past as a sex columnist in Gay Chicago Magazine and [email protected]

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» POLL According to Mooney, Martin is concerned gathering place for Independents to ana- » GOP with the polling results because the data is lyze and expose political corruption, said Continued from FRONT PAGE being printed in the newspaper without the not including some candidates in a poll has Continued from PG. 33 mention of his name, which he said makes always been a problem. But pollers have to in August and another in October, to Scott it look like he doesn’t exist. determine which candidate is worth the an amendment that would have defi ned Rasmussen, founder of the polling agency, “When you’ve got giant fi elds, they often time and energy. marriage as being only between one man questioning why he wasn’t named as an times will only include the so-called serious Taylor said there are a lot of “vanity can- and one woman. option in the polling questions. candidates and that’s usually defi ned as didates” who run for o ce that have no The battle over the “conservative base” Mark Kirk was the only Republican those who meet a certain threshold on the chance of winning and are doing it more that has been spreading across the nation candidate who was mentioned during last poll,” Mooney said. for the image. could prevent a GOP celebration in 2010. those month’s polls. But other Rasmussen “It’s kind of a catch-22. You can’t get vis- Taylor added that Rasmussen Reports is “There is a huge fi ght within the Repub- Reports polling questions featured many ibility if you’re not in the poll, but if you usually accurate and trustworthy. lican Party in Illinois about its identity,” more candidates as an option that aren’t don’t have any visibility, they don’t put As for his main opponents Kirk and Redfi eld said. “[Illinois] historically has not very well-known. your name in the poll,” Redfi eld said. Hughes, Martin said he was not included been dominated by the more conservative “Rasmussen came out with a poll, but he Mooney explained that it is not proven in their personal polling data either. part of the Republican base.” doesn’t poll on any of the other Republicans that polls a ect how voters think about “How can you ignore the big gorilla in But, Conrad contends the battle over [except for Kirk],” Martin said. certain candidates, but “some of the lore is the room or the bear?” Martin said. “It’s the base is happening in other parts of the Kent Redfi eld, political science profes- that there might be a bandwagon e ect.” whatever you want to call me, or worse.” country, not in Illinois. sor at the University of Illinois Springfi eld, Kristinn Taylor, spokeswoman for “In Illinois, I don’t see the split,” Conrad said it’s possible that more Republican FreeRepublic.com, an online grass roots [email protected] said of the split between moderates candidates were included in the poll, but and conservatives. had such a low percentage that they were But Sullivan said that he has seen a surge grouped together in the “other” category. HowHow accurateaccurate areare pollspolls ?? for a conservative candidate in Illinois and According to Martin, the lawsuit he across the country, and Kirk doesn’t fi t the claimed he is going to fi le against Rasmus- Contests The Poll Report Card: bill. He pointed to the New York District 23 sen for performing “rigged” polls is “in Polled special election in November as proof of 2 U Cincinnati .5 process.” He explained this issue was not the power of the more conservative sector 2 Market Shares 2.0 a priority in the past weeks, but it is now. of the GOP. 2 Schroth & Associates 2.5 Christopher Mooney, political science In that race, Republicans lost a special 3 Selzer & Co 3.0 professor at the Institute of Government election to replace departing Republican 33 Survey USA 3.0 and Public A airs at the University of 10 Suffolk University 3.5 Rep. John McHugh. In the election, a third- Illinois Springfi eld, said he doesn’t think 2 Field Poll 4.0 party candidate from the Conservative Martin has a legal leg to stand on, but con- 5 Fox News 4.0 Party of New York drew support from some tinued to say he wasn’t a lawyer. 1 Greenberg Quinlan 4.0 GOP leaders, causing the Republican candi- “Anybody can sue anybody for any- 24 Zogby 4.0 date to withdraw from the race and endorse thing in this country,” Mooney said. “The 36 Rasmussen 5.5 the Democratic candidate. question is, do they win?” 2 Gallup 9.0 Redfi eld said he believes that in the end, Rasmussen did not respond to repeated 1 CBS News 10.0 Kirk will receive the Republican nomina- requests for comment. 0 2 4 6 8 10 tion, but that doesn’t mean the conserva- Martin said the Rasmussen polls make it Median Errors tive sector of the party will vote for Kirk in look as though Kirk is running unopposed Erik Rodriguez THE CHRONICLE the general election. or against someone who isn’t well-known In a poll released by Survey USA in 2008, each polling agency had a margin of error listed. From those enough to include, which he said isn’t true. numbers a median margin of error was chosen after one or more polls was evaluated. [email protected] I am. Are you?

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Help Columbia College win the 2009 Donate Life Illinois Campus Challenge by registering to be an organ/tissue donor! METRO I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 37 First lady Michelle Obama unveils White House decorations The Obamas’ first Christmas and wrapped in burlap, awaiting outdoor tree features six ornaments planting after the holidays. representing Chicago landmarks In going green, the White House beehive even got in the act. The State Dining Room by Katherine Skiba is host to a 390-pound gingerbread house, MCT Newswire which features gingerbread baked with honey from White House bees. A “ginger- IN STYLING the Obamas’ first Christmas at bread masterpiece,” Obama said. the White House, Michelle Obama went Highlights of the gingerbread house grand, glorious and green. include a marzipan likeness of Bo, the The largest tree in the mansion—an Obamas’ black, shaggy-haired Portuguese 18 1/2 foot Douglas fir adorning the Blue water dog, a replica of Obama’s White Room—is festooned with hundreds House kitchen garden and a “shadow box” of ornaments, all recycled from previ- feature that lets visitors peek into the min- ous administrations and spruced up by iature State Dining Room. groups around the country to reflect Obama, in her remarks, thanked vol- cherished landmarks. unteers on Dec. 2 and touted two holiday Chicagoans clearly had a vote, since the charities. One is the Marine Corps Reserve’s city is represented in orbs singling out the Toys for Tots drive. The other is a new “Feed Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago Theatre, the MCT Newswire a Neighbor” initiative that is detailed on Art Institute of Chicago and the DuSable First lady Michelle Obama presents the Christmas decorations and thanks volunteers “who helped ready the the Web site Serve.gov. The second program White House for Christmas,” in Washington, D.C. on Dec. 2. The first lady also revealed this year’s holiday Museum of African-American History. theme, “Reflect, Rejoice, Renew.” will help connect people with opportuni- “Sweet home, Chicago” is the rhapsody ties to deliver meals to homebound seniors, on another ornament. commitment to one another and to the ity scene in the East Room, graced by four offer help at food pantries or plant com- That decoration takes its place with orna- causes that we believe in. And I wanted to fireplaces adorned with fresh garlands on munity gardens and share produce with ments depicting a Georgia peach, a Mary- continue that part of the tradition during their mantels. There, as in the other rooms others, she said. land crab and others heralding spots from our first holiday season here.” on the State Floor, Mother Nature is amply White House officials said decorating Maine (the Wiggly Bridge near York Harbor) Planning for the holidays began last represented with adornments of dried costs came out of the mansion’s operations to California (the Ronald Reagan Presiden- summer, and the first of an expected hydrangea (leftovers from White House budget, but would not disclose the costs. tial Foundation & Library). 50,000-plus holiday visitors began stream- floral arrangements), honeysuckle vine, Earlier this week, first daughters Malia The tree’s wide-ribbon garland and its ing through Dec. 1, she said. magnolia branches, cranberries, gigantic and Sasha and their grandmother, Marian other accents are also recycled. And its There were dozens of “elves” behind the pine cones and painted magnolia leaves. Robinson, got a sneak preview of the deco- glimmering lights are all low-voltage LED decorating, which while elaborate, was Several ruby-red wreaths were created from rating. But the daughters were absent at the light bulbs. more understated than in recent years. the magnolia leaves. Two 8-foot topiary Dec. 1 reception, which was held to reward At a press preview Dec. 2, First lady Obama Ninety-two volunteers from 24 states put trees were crafted from dried pepper ber- volunteer decorators and those who donate revealed the year’s holiday theme, “Reflect, in more than 3,400 hours of their time, ries from California. their time in the White House Office of Cor- Rejoice, Renew,” and the reason for it. Obama said. The flowers range from pink-tinged white respondence, one aide said. For the Obama family, she said, Christmas White House staffers and National Park amaryllis, fringed with pepper berry, to pale On Dec. 3, the first lady joined President and the New Year has “always been a time Service workers were among those who pink roses with boxwood. Barack Obama for the annual National to reflect on our many blessings, to rejoice rolled up their sleeves in the effort, White In all, the White House has 27 trees inside Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. in the pleasure of spending time with our House aides said. and out, mostly Douglas and Fraser fir, aides family and our friends and to renew our They helped erect a large, ornate nativ- said. Six are live trees with their roots balled [email protected]

IN OTHER NEWS Disproportionate punishment Twilight taper Burr Oak Cemetery Chicago’s first lady

Gov. Pat Quinn read a report by the Asso- According to SunTimes.com, a movie According to ChicagoTribune.com, Burr ChicagoTribune.com reported that Chicago ciated Press stating that black students theater decided to press charges against Oak Cemetery workers recently discovered first lady Maggie Daley will be seen around account for half of all school suspensions a 22-year-old Chicago woman who was three more burial sites that were supposed the city in a wheelchair due to radiation in Illinois, ChicagoDefender.com reported caught videotaping two short segments of to be empty. These plots contained either a therapy for a bone tumor in her leg. Mayor on Nov. 30. But the state’s black student the Twilight sequel, New Moon. Samantha casket or human remains. Each of the fami- Richard M. Daley’s office wanted to release population only comprises approximately Tumpach sat in a jail cell for two nights lies was given a new plot. Howard Koren- the information before she was seen in a one-fifth of school enrollment. After read- after her arrest at Muvico Theater in Rose- thal, chief operating officer of Burr Oaks, wheelchair to prevent assumptions. This ing the report, Quinn said he may appoint a mont, Ill. She faces three years in prison and Roman Szabelski, a consultant to the has been the first official comment and commission to analyze how Illinois school for a felony that tries to deter moviegoers cemetery, said they decided to release the update from Daley’s office about Maggie children are disciplined based on racial from recording movies. Tumpach told offi- information to the public after the third Daley’s condition in several months, since disparity. Quinn said discipline should cials that she was actually videotaping her incident. Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart she was first diagnosed in 2002 with meta- be “evenhanded.” sister’s surprise birthday party. called for burials to be halted at Burr Oaks. static breast cancer.

OFF THE BLOTTER Wabash Ave.

Fire! Tourist welcomed

On Dec. 1, a Columbia faculty member walked After leaving Chicago, a visitor from Maumee, into room 426 of the 1104 S. Wabash Ave., build- Ohio told police that she was robbed while she 4 ing and discovered a flaming sheet of paper was in the city. According to police reports, hanging on a bulletin board. He removed the while the victim was boarding a bus at 1159 S. paper, and stomped out the fire. After arriv- Canal St. someone stole her wallet and other ing, the reporting police officer notified the items from her backpack. The victim was bomb and arson division. After an investiga- wearing the backpack at the time. Inside the tion it was determined the fire was started by wallet was $80 in cash, four credit cards and an overheated computer, according to police the woman’s Social Security card. 2 1 Bus fight Man threatened

3 According to police reports, on Dec. 2 two According to police reports, at 618 S. Wabash men were having a verbal fight on a CTA bus Ave., a man pulled out a 9-inch butcher knife at 540 W. Roosevelt Ave., at 4 p.m. When one and stuck it into a wooden table next to of the men involved in the argument tried another man. The victim told police that the to exit the bus, the other man shoved him man then said, “I’m tired of you” and then and punched him in the face. The bus driver fled the scene. Police searched for the knife- Compiled by Chronicle staff with information provided by the Chicago Police Department. reported the incident, but the victim did not wielder but were unable to locate him. The want to press charges. victim did not want to press charges. 38 THE CHRONICLE I DECEMBER 7, 2009

games FOR RELEASE DECEMBER 6, 2009 THE TV CROSSWORD SUDOKU CROSSWORDby Jacqueline E. Mathews 3 4 1 2 5 9 7 6 1 4 6 7 5 3 8 7 2 9 3

ACROSS 47 Baseball’s Mel __ 1 __ Barry of “Cold Case” 48 Brand of cosmetics 5 “The __ and I”; Fred MacMurray 50 Toward shelter, nautically 2 7 1 movie 51 Misfortune 8 Julia Child or Emeril 52 Actor Auberjonois of “Benson” 12 “The Love Boat: The Next __” 53 “The __ Hunter”; De Niro movie 13 First question’s dollar value on 54 Yrbk. section “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” 55 “The Price Is Right” host 8 2 9 3 14 Like a poor excuse 15 Judd Hirsch’s role on “Numb3rs” DOWN 16 “America’s __ Talent” 1 Defunct U. S. airline 17 Dog’s name in “Garfield” 2 “Two and a __ Men” 18 2009 sci-fi series for John Cho 3 Ice skating rink’s shape, often 21 “__ on a Hot Tin Roof” 4 “Dennis the __” 6 8 9 22 Light brown 5 “__ Is Enough” 23 Capital of Oregon 6 Make a mistake 26 “__ Pebbles”; film for McQueen 7 “__ Head of the Class” Puzzle by websudoku.com 30 “...MacDonald had a farm, __...” 8 Chuckles and Bozo 31 __ West 9 “Mary __ little lamb...” 32 One of The Three Stooges 10 Title for a Mideastern ruler 33 Lou Grant’s portrayer 11 Nourish 36 Sleepy, Sneezy or Grumpy 19 Actor Waterston 38 Hawaii’s Mauna __ 20 “Norma __”; Sally Field movie 39 Taro root food served at a luau 23 “__ You in September”; ’60s hit 40 Actor on “NCIS” 24 Assistance Follow The Chronicle on 46 Result of corrosion on iron 25 Actress Thompson Solution to Last Week’s Puzzle 26 Street paver’s gooey substance 27 Doctors’ org. 28 Neither this __ that 29 Trio following ABC 31 Steve Allen’s widow Jayne __ 34 Christian __ of “The Forgotten” 35 Prefix for fat or sense 36 Part of every e-mail address 37 “The __ of Oz” 39 Rose and Sampras www.twitter.com/ccchronicle 40 Actor Garrett 41 Regulation 42 “...__ by your outfit that you...” 43 “Ripley’s Believe __ Not!” 44 “Unhappily __ After” 45 “__ But the Brave”; Sinatra film 49 “The __ Adventures of Old (c) 2009 Tribune Media Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Christine” HOROSCOPES

ARIES (March 20 - April 18) Deep emotional changes are now taking place. Over the next LIBRA (Sept. 22 - Oct. 22) Early this week, loved ones may react quickly to new social eight days, expect the silent observations of a friend or lover to be easily expressed. Pre- facts. Relationships are complex at the moment but highly productive: wait for others vious delays or vague promises will no longer create controversy. In the coming weeks, to settle their own thoughts before taking emotional risks. Wednesday through Friday fast decisions and de nitive action will require extra diplomacy. Stay focused. Friday highlights minor workplace tensions and key discussions with authority gures. Mis- through Sunday highlights powerful intuitions and sudden insights. Family expectations information or vague instructions may be a theme. Pace yourself and wait for change. and long-term romantic promises are accented. Remain attentive. After Saturday, rest and study new business options: expansion will bring success.

TAURUS (April 19 - May 19) Early this week, loved ones may probe for detailed answers. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) Important family information may be revealed before If so, expect recent social changes or family gatherings to trigger unusual discussions. midweek. Skepticism, doubt and feelings of isolation are all accented. Home rela- Group loyalties or yesterday’s emotional patterns may be at issue: stay focused. Avoid tions may be more vulnerable than anticipated: remain open to unusual proposals. being seduced into unnecessary arguments: no long-term solutions will be found. After Tuesday through Friday, workplace relationships may be mildly strained. Key issues Wednesday, pay attention to workplace gossip or minor comments from key of cials. involve workplace competition, hidden agendas and fear of change. At present, busi- Revised budgets and new team assignments will soon be announced. ness politics are best left unaddressed. Rest this weekend and gain perspective: energy is low. GEMINI (May 20 - June 20) Family and social acceptance are on the rise this week. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 20) Workplace relations will be complex and poorly Before Thursday, watch for unique messages or invitations from loved ones. Be  ex- de ned over the next few days. Key issues may involve money limitations and yester- ible: your reaction is important. Later this week, business delays will be unavoidable. day’s promises. Stand your ground: your creativity and long-term intentions are valid. For many Geminis, a recent project may encounter a new or unusual debt. Refuse to be Later this week, a recently despondent family member may reveal unexpected social derailed: at present your creativity and dedication to group achievement will help move or nancial information. Encourage group involvement: new ideas and shared plans vital business partnerships forward. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. are needed. After Saturday ask a friend for clarity: mistaken facts may be a concern.

CANCER (June 21 - July 21) Over the next few days, loved ones may require assistance CAPRICORN (Dec. 21 - Jan. 19) Complex social or family promises may be brie y concerning nancial security, business investments or long-term practical decisions. All delayed this week. Go slow and expect unusual home reversals. Key concerns may is well, so not to worry. Do, however, watch for key home choices to be dif cult or tempo- involve emotional triangles or dependent relationships. After Wednesday, workplace rarily delayed. After Wednesday, Cancerians born after 1978 will encounter an unexpect- negotiations and private career discussions work strongly in your favor. Bosses or ed or perhaps bizarre romantic invitation. Private attractions, yesterday’s social triangles managers may ask for extra dedication. Don’t hesitate: your prompt attention is vital. and unusual workplace disputes are highlighted. Stay balanced. Later this weekend, carefully study nancial documents: missed payments may be bothersome. LEO (July 22 - Aug. 22) Health, vitality and sleep patterns will now improve. Over the next AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) Before next week, business partners and key of cials few days, watch for loved ones to become involved in unusual leisure activities or com- will rekindle interest in outdated projects. Promising ventures now need to be revis- plex group relationships. For many Leos, enthusiasm and social optimism are now an ited: expect older colleagues and team leaders to opt for repeated programs, revised ongoing theme. Join in; it’s time to create an atmosphere of acceptance. Friday through workplace roles or extra training. Use this time to introduce fresh concepts into an old Sunday accents bold discussions with older relatives, authority gures or managers. Be plan: you won’t be disappointed. After Thursday, romance is fascinating; expect sen- expressive: new roles and meaningful progress are needed. sual banter to be dif cult to resist. Go slow, however, and wait for reliable promises.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 21) Money restrictions, business schedules and home agree- PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 19) Welcome new mental and verbal attention this week, ments may cause brief delays. If so, expect improved security to arrive within the next but take extra time to evaluate the potential of new relationships. Over the next six four weeks. Remain patient and watch for loved ones to discuss past mistakes or un- days, social and romantic  irtations will be passionate but brief: carefully consider all productive doubts. Offer quiet assurance: your inner strength will be appreciated. After invitations and proposals. After midweek, Pisceans born after 1982 will experience midweek, romantic relationships begin a seven-week phase of renewed intimacy and bold an unusual emotional triangle. If so, let others resolve their own issues: your insights discussion. Emotional progress will bring new commitments. Stay open. will not be well received. Late Saturday, family demands increase. STAY IN I DECEMBER 7, 2009 I THE CHRONICLE 39

// monday, 12 //7 thursday, 12 10 The WCRX “Holly Jolly Trolley” Food Drive WCRX Radio, 88.1FM and the Radio Department will host the 7th Annual “Holly Jolly Trolley” Opera in Cinema Screening Food Drive to benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository. WCRX students will broadcast of Carmen Live from La Scala from the “Holly Jolly Trolley,” parked in front of the 33 E. Congress Building and the lobby of

The WCRX “Holly Jolly Trolley” Food Drive & Broadcast 7th Annual Food Drive to Benefit 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. the Congress Parkway Building. The 8-hour broadcast will feature musicians, locale Greatercelebrities Chicago Food Depository ursday, December 10th 8:00am until 5:00pm 1104 Center, Film Row Cinema and dignitaries including Columbia President Warrick L. Carter, Secretary of StateWCRX Jesse 88.1FM LiveWhite, Broadcast 33 East Congress Lobby 1104 S. Wabash Ave., 8th floor Alderman Bob Fioretti, Chicago Bears Play-by-Play Broadcaster Jeff Joniak and WCIUHelp us fillmorning the WCRX “Holly Jolly Trolley” for Chicago’s hungry this holiday season with non-perishable food items or canned (312) 369-6709 host Jeanne Sparrow. goods. Enjoy music, games, holiday treats and Santa! For more information, please call $25 312 369 8155 or email [email protected] 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Special Guests Include: Dr. Warrick L. Carter, Blues Ensemble I in Concert 33 E. Congress Parkway Building President of Columbia College Chicago Bob Fioretti, 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. (312) 369-8155 2nd Ward Alderman Jesse White, At Close Distance: Music Center, Concert Hall FREE; Donate a non-perishable Illinois Secretary of State Jeanne Sparrow - WCIU-TV

Storied Paths to Home 1014 S. Michigan Ave. food item or canned good Ed Curran - WBBM TV An exhibition of Columbia graduate (312) 369-6300 Je Joniak - Chicago Bears Announcer Silent Auction Items Include: student interdisciplinary work explores FREE Village Lunch Discussion Series Apple iPod House of Blues Gospel Brunch

how the concept of home reinforces Noon Gi Certificates: ABT Electronics the sense of self. It is the path of Multicultural Affairs Conference Room Dominick’s Finer Foods Hotel Sax Chicago Melting Pot Restaurant Chicago separation, the coming and going 618 S. Michigan Ave. Building, 4th floor Botanic Garden Alpha Baking Company that creates and shapes identity and Jazz Guitar Ensemble 2 Recital (312) 369-7569 Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant memory. As landscapes change, it is Noon - 12:50 p.m. FREE; RSVP at least 24 hours What TV Ratings Really Mean - SAA WWW.WCRX.NET the primary sense of home, the anchor Music Center, Concert Hall before the event Alumni Guest Speaker: Justin Kulovsek Radio Department to our origins that inform where we’ve 1014 S. Michigan Ave. 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. School of Media Arts been and where we’re yet to go. (312) 369-6300 Alexandroff Campus Center FREE Chicago Jazz Ensemble with Special 600 S. Michigan Ave., room 401 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Guests David Sanchez and Steve Wilson (312) 369-6987 C33 Gallery 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. FREE 33 E. Congress Parkway Building Harris Theater for Music and Dance (312) 369-6856 205 E. Randolph St. (312) 369-6269 Counterpoint Recital $15 - $45; Tickets available at 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. HarrisTheaterChicago.org Sherwood Conservatory of Music tuesday, 12//8 1312 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 427-6267 Groove Band in Concert FREE Noon - 12:50 p.m. Music Center, Concert Hall Dodgeball 2009 1014 S. Michigan Ave. 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. friday, 12//11 (312) 369-6300 South Loop Elementary School FREE 1212 S. Plymouth Court [email protected] Columbia College Chicago Jazz Ensemble: Jazz Combo Fest Pop Rock Ensemble: $2 or a new toy donation per person Ellington’s “Nutcracker Suite” 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Showcase in Concert Noon - 12:50 p.m. Music Center, Music Center, Concert Hall 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. Music Center, Concert Hall 1014 S. Michigan Ave. Music Center, Concert Hall Acoustic Kitchen Open Stage 1014 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 369-6300 1014 S. Michigan Ave. 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. (312) 369-6300 FREE (312) 369-6300 Quincy Wong Center for Artistic Expression FREE FREE 623 S. Wabash Ave., 1st floor (312) 369-7920 Primary Piano Concert Dis/Believer: Intersections of Science Men’s Chorus in Concert FREE; Sign-up via Email at 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. and Religion in Contemporary Art 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. [email protected] or at Sherwood Conservatory of Music 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sherwood Conservatory of Music 6:30 on night of event 1312 S. Michigan Ave. Glass Curtian Gallery, 1104 Center 1312 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 427-6267 1104 S. Wabash Ave. (312) 427-6267 FREE (312) 369-6643 FREE FREE wednesday, 12//9 saturday, 12//12 New Music Ensemble and CCC Woman’s Recording and Performance Synesthetic Plan of Chicago Chorus in Concert Ensemble in Concert 2009 celebrates the 100th year of the publication of Daniel Burnham’s The Plan of 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. 7 p.m. - 7:50 p.m. Chicago. The Synesthetic Plan of Chicago: A Multi-Sensory Journey Through Chicago and Its Sherwood Conservatory of Music Music Center, Concert Hall Neighborhoods celebrates this event. The exhibit allows the visitor to “experience” Chicago 1312 S. Michigan Ave. 1014 S. Michigan Ave. through one or more of the five senses. The pieces are crafted to invite people to interact with (312) 427-6267 (312) 369-6300 the sensory “artifacts” of Chicago in creative and imaginative ways. FREE FREE

Jazz Guitar Ensemble 1 Recital All day Art/Activism/Inner Peace: Noon - 12:50 p.m. Columbia College Library, South Campus Building A Yoga Workshop With Michael McColly Music Center, Concert Hall 624 S. Michigan Ave., 3rd floor 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. 1014 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 369-7157 Dance Center (312) 369-6300 FREE 1306 S. Michigan Ave., room 202 FREE (312) 369-8300 FREE; RSPV at [email protected]

columbia games fitness music art theater radio speaker monday, 12//7 friday, 12//11 Gwar The Sandbox Showcase Hustlers 6:30 p.m. Mondays, 8 p.m. McCoy Tyner Trio Republican Coalition Holiday Party House of Blues The Playground Theater 8 p.m. 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. 329 N. Dearborn St. 3209 N. Halsted St. Symphony Center Ravenswood Billboard Factory (312) 923-2000 (773) 871-3793 220 S. Michigan Ave. 4025 N. Ravenswood Ave. $23 - $25 $5; 21+ (Bring your own beer) (312) 294-3000 (773) 388-2170 For tickets, call (800) 745-3000 $24 - $55 $75 - $90 Open Gym Volleyball The Cardboard Sangria Showcase Mondays and Thursdays 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. 8 p.m. Center on Halsted Schubas Tavern 3656 N. Halsted St. “Baby Wants Candy: The Completely The Ha-Ha-Holiday Show 3159 N. Southport Ave. (773) 472-6469 ext. 265 Improvised Rock Opera” Through Dec. 26; Fridays and Saturdays, (773) 525-2508 $5 per session; $20 for monthly pass Fridays, 10:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. $5; 18+ Apollo Theater Laugh Out Loud Theater 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg, IL (773) 935-6100 (847) 240-0386 tuesday, 12//8 $12 - $15 $18; $12 for kids 18 and under; 7:30 show is family-friendly; Kinky Comedy Tuesdays Robert Buscemi 9:30 show is adult-friendly Tuesdays, 9 p.m. 8 p.m. Old Town Pub Lincoln Restaurant 1339 N. Wells St. 4008 N. Lincoln Ave. (312) 266-6789 (773) 251-1539 saturday, 12//12 FREE $10 + a one-drink minimum; 18+

Holidaze Gift Bizarre Chicago College of Performing Arts 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Combined Chorus Wishbone Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. The Flaming Dames in Seventh Annual Kandy Kane Ball 3300 N. Lincoln Ave. Ganz Hall at Roosevelt University “Naughtier and Nicer” 9 p.m. (773) 407-5186 430 S. Michigan Ave. 7 p.m. Joe’s Bar FREE (312) 341-2352 The Spot 940 W. Weed St. FREE 4437 N. Broadway Ave. (312) 337-3486 (312) 458-9083 $35 - $40 wednesday, 12//9 $15 Road to Fame: Grand Finale Fair Trade Groove 8 p.m. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Santa Claus Conquers the Nazis! Polar Adventure Days Mahoney’s Pub & Grille Greenheart Through Dec. 19; Saturdays, 11:59 p.m. 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. 551 N. Ogden Ave. 1911 W. Division St. Comedy SportzTheatre Northerly Island (312) 733-2121 (312) 264-1625 929 W. Belmont Ave. 1400 S. Linn White Drive FREE; RSVP at mahoneysroadtofame.com FREE (773) 549-8080 (312) 742-7529 $10; For tickets, call Ticketmaster FREE 4 Women Only The Merry Widow at (773) 559-1212 Through Dec. 31, Wednesdays, 9 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, 7:30 p.m. Uncommon Ground Civic Opera House 1401 W. Devon Ave. 20 N. Wacker Drive (773) 465-9801 (312) 332-2244 // FREE; $10 suggested donation $33 - $207 sunday, 12 13 thursday, 12//10 Tim Meadows: Uncle’s Brother The Lincoln Lodge Independent Movie Night The “Saturday Night Live” alumnus performs an improv set Thursdays and Fridays, 9 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. with The Second City mainstage cast members Brad Morris Lincoln Restaurant Doug’s Rockhouse Grill and Joe Canale. 4008 N. Lincoln Ave. 333 E. Indian Trail (773) 251-1539 Aurora, Ill. 11 p.m. $10 + a one-drink minimum; 18+ (312) 698-8995 iO $7 3541 N. Clark St. (773) 880-0199 Big Yellow Bus $10 Thursdays, 8 p.m. The Playground Theater 3209 N. Halsted St. (773) 871-3793 Brewery Tour Make Chai Not War $10; 21+ (Bring your own beer) 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Goose Island Brewpub Lakeshore Theater 1800 N. Clybourn Ave. 3175 N. Broadway St. (312) 915-0071 (773) 472-3492 Graceland $5; Reservations recommended $25 On Sept. 12, 2001, Ben Harcourt nds himself in the downtown apartment of his lover, Abby Prescott. Over the course of the night, Ben and Abby explore the choices now available to them in an existence “Family Tree House Boat Accident” different from the one they knew just the day before. and “Almost Atlanta” Through Jan. 3; Sundays, 8 p.m. Through Dec. 20; 7:30 p.m iO Profi les Theatre 3541 N. Clark St. 4147 N. Broadway St. (773) 880-0199 (773) 549-1815 $5 $30 on Thursdays ; $35 on Fridays through Saturdays

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