Student-run newspaper since 1962 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2020 WWW.NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG VOLUME 39 ISSUE 12 Flamin’ Hot founder speaks

PAGE 3 NEWS at Goodwin Lecture Series NEIU social media accused of racist Valentine’s Day post

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OPINIONS Minority should vote blue. Here’s why.

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ARTS & LIFE Billboard-topping Theory (fmr. of a Deadman) talk new album

PAGE 18 PAGE 5 SPORTS Part Two: Greatest matches in Wrestlemania history 2 NEWS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG

INDEPENDENT Student Veterans Club IN THIS ISSUE: reinvigorated with new leadership Can’s goal as president of the of Veteran Affairs and the Nation- sues, many veterans are left behind. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Earnest Beeson SVC is to encourage our university’s al Institute of Health, many suffer While their skills may put them at Matthew Rago Writer veterans to assume an active role in from homelessness, PTSD, suicidal an advantage, the disadvantage of “We’re not what you see in the the future of the university. He also ideations and divorce, often at the not being able to translate those movies,” the newly-elected 23-year- urges veterans and nonveterans same time. skills outweigh any benefit. SECTION EDITORS old president of the Student Veter- alike to support the SVC by joining Can and his team have big As of Jan. 2020, the Department Rachel Willard ans Club (SVC), Gabriel Can, says their ranks. The only requirement plans for the SVC. They have al- of Labor reported veteran unem- Montgomery Blair about veterans. Just last semester, for joining the SVC, he points out, ready begun by increasing mem- ployment at 3.1%. This figure does the Student Veterans Club had only is to support the veteran commu- bership to about 15 active members not include veterans that are not two members. But according to staff nity. (14 veterans and 1 nonveteran). The receiving unemployment benefits. ONLINE EDITOR advisor Anne Ortiz, the club is well The SVC advocates for veterans SVC hopes to recruit many of the Marketplace.org clarifies that labor Ankush Vyas on its way to rebuilding. On Jan. 23, and assists with the academic and approximately 250 military-con- force participation for U.S. veterans the SVC elected a new cabinet: Can, social success of student veterans. nected students currently attending is 49.7%, which means that more Vice President Daniel Firszt, Secre- Despite the skills and training many NEIU as well as nonveterans. than 10 million veterans are cur- PAYROLL MANAGER tary Daniel Lim and Treasurer Enki veterans possess, they are identified The SVC is working on a col- rently unemployed or actively re- Francisco Sebastian Younan. as a vulnerable population by a 2016 laboration with the NEIU Green ceiving unemployment benefits. When The Independent spoke study from the Centers for Disease Conservation Group to restore and Despite not being provided a with Oritz, she explained that the Control and Prevention. Veterans update the Peace Garden. These location, the SVC cites that Presi- WRITERS SVC was almost deemed inactive are often overlooked and forgotten restorations include planting new dent Gloria J. Gibson as supportive Earnest Beeson due to low membership. Ortiz except during election years. plants as well as installing a plaque of these projects. Students that wish A prime example is the Phoe- and eventually a monument. to join the SVC should visit the Vet- Amina Murati hopes to rebuild the Student Vet- erans Club and inspire students to nix VA scandal scandal of 2014. President Can and Treasurer erans Service Center in room D130 Jack Poskus take a more active role in managing Veterans had complained for many Younan have been working with for more information. the club and its affairs. years about average wait times of 3 John “JB” Butler, the director of Can grew up in the Pilsen months to see a primary care man- Corporate and Foundation Rela- COPY EDITOR neighborhood of Chicago, Ill., be- ager (PCM). These complaints were tions, to locate grants to help ac- Daniel J. Lane fore serving in the United States often dismissed as exaggerated. complish these missions. Marine Corps for four years as a Then in 2014 a rare event oc- The SVC’s biggest goal for the corporal and a small arms techni- curred. 107 elected positions at the near future is establishing a vet- GRAPHIC DESIGN cian. As a noncommissioned officer State level were due for election. It erans’ resource center. This is not Frannie Mendoza (NCO), Can was responsible not was then that CNN began asking intended to be just a hangout spot, only for the training and manage- why 40 veterans had died while but more of a relaxed place to do ment of his junior-enlisted subor- waiting an average of 115 days to homework, network and to con- dinates but also for several million be seen by the VA. Suddenly, many duct workshops. dollars worth of government equip- investigations were launched si- Many skills and experiences ment. Today, he’s a sophomore multaneously on the Department that veterans may have acquired The Independent is a public forum studying psychology and hopes to of Veteran Affairs and hidden wait do not translate easily when transi- for all of Northeastern Illinois Uni- earn a master’s degree in psycholo- lists were discovered as well as a tioning to the civilian sector. While versity’s campuses and surrounding gy with an emphasis on substance conspiracy to hide those lists. Transition Assistance Programs are community. The Independent is en- abuse rehabilitation. According to the Department adapting to encompass these is- tirely student-run and is published bi-weekly, except during summer and semester breaks. The editor-in-chief is responsible for the content of the Independent, and views presented do not necessarily represent those of the administration, faculty and students. The Independent is a member of the

ICPA, CMA and ACP. Earnest Beeson Gabriel Can of SVC have big For further details email: plans such as the restoration of [email protected]. the Peace Garden outside the cafeteria with the NEIU GCG. FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | NEWS 3 NEIU social media account accused These incidents occured on NEIU campus property between the dates of 01/22/2020 and 02/18/2020. of racism Earnest Beeson The NEIU police blotter is requested from our campus police for every issue of the Inde- Writer ances and allow respondents to articulate pendent because this publication exercises its right to do so, courtesy of the Clery Act. The possible solutions to various issues. Clery Act is a federal statute requiring all higher education establishments that participate On Feb. 14, NEIU’s Instagram account The social media blunder appears odd in federal financial aid programs to maintain records of campus crime and campus security posted a Valentine’s Day message that some to many because the school is well-known information. Any case that is considered ongoing may not be listed in the blotter. For this deemed racially insensitive. The message to advocate for a strong Hispanic commu- reason, there may be updated reports published retroactively once those cases are closed. portrayed NEIU school mascot, Goldie the nity. According to a 2017 Latino Leaders For more information about the Clery Act, visit the NEIU police department’s webpage. Golden Eagle, with a caption that read “so magazine, 34% of NEIU’s student body is heartsick over you I’m...ill-eagle.” Hispanic. NEIU identifies itself as a Hispan- 01/22/20 - Parking Department alarm at CCICS. Two unknown males ap- Many in the university community be- ic Serving Institution (HSI) which means A student became irate and verbally abusive peared on camera at the entrance vestibule, lieve the post to be in poor taste. One staff an eligible institution of higher learning with parking staff over a parking citation re- but could not gain access to the building. member, who requested anonymity, criti- serving a greater than 25% Hispanic student ceived earlier in the day. He left willingly a Responding officers secured the door. cized the social media oversight: “There are body. It is also recognized as such by both few minutes later. any number of puns that could have been the U.S. Department of Education Title V 02/07/20 – Cashier’s Office used,” they said. “I love you so much, it and the Hispanic Associations of Colleges & 01/23/20 - Parking Lot A A former student was upset with old tuition should be ill-eagle.” Universities (HACU). While exiting an Uber ride, the student charges. Peace was restored. A recent graduate of the university ex- Additionally, the university boasts dropped her Apple iPhone and it was run pressed to the Independent, “Seems a little a campus specializing in educating ESL over by car tire and damaged. 02/08/20 – The Nest racist. The administration or the illustrator students in surrounding Hispanic commu- Well-being check on Nest resident. Student is dropping the ball immensely. Please ad- nities. El Centro de Recursos Educativos 01/24/20 - CCICS Campus was found to be okay. dress this with President Gibson.” (Center for Educational Services) completed Staff at CCICS have been raising concern NEIU did not disclose who was respon- its final construction and expansion project over an unknown male that keeps coming 02/10/20 – Parking Lot C into the building, approaching staff and ask- Police located a suspicious person, who sible for the post. However, President Gloria in 2004. Given that Hispanics are repre- ing for money. He was warned about pan- turned out to be a neighborhood resident J. Gibson stated in a campuswide email, sented not only in the student body, but in handling. and was returning home. “The entire Division of Marketing and Com- the very architecture, many found the error munications will complete Undocumented perplexing. 01/24/20 - El Centro 02/11/20 – B Building Student Ally Training on Feb. 28 and subse- Light pole in the parking lot appears to have Two students argued over another student. quent diversity training.” ­Share your thoughts with the Independent on Facebook, been damaged by an unknown vehicle or Police restored peace. Case referred for stu- Gibson urged the student body to par- Twitter and Instagram @neiuindienews. heavy machinery. Photos were taken and dent conduct violation. ticipate in the Campus Climate Assessment security cameras will be reviewed. on Feb. 25. The explanation of the assess- 02/13/20 – P.E. Building ment provided by NEIU stated, “As part of 01/24/20 – The Nest A wallet got taken from a jacket lying next its efforts to embrace a culture of inclusion, Someone asked police to do a well-being to the basketball court. Northeastern Illinois University will conduct check on a student resident at The Nest. a campus climate assessment to evaluate its Roommate reports he saw him last night 02/14/20 – Fine Arts Building living, learning and working environment. before he left to go visit his grandmother. A student reported his art piece was taken The assessment will allow NEIU to improve from display in Fine Arts. Police reviewed its campus climate by addressing the chal- 01/28/20 – Parking Lot J the surveillance video. lenges and seizing the opportunities iden- A student noticed damage to her vehicle tified in the assessment. Approved by the when she arrived home and thinks someone 02/18/20 – C Building Board of Trustees, Office of the President, may have struck her vehicle while she was After receiving fraud alerts, two victims re- parked at NEIU. ported credit cards stolen from wallets in- Division of Academic Affairs, Division of side an office. The offender remains at large. Student Affairs and Office of Procurement, 02/01/20 - CCICS the NEIU climate study is now a reality.” An alarm company reported a burglar The survey will consist of sections for additional comments, designed to air griev- 4 NEWS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG NEIU provides Mindfulness Meditation Amina Murati Writer busyness and suddenly being told the right nostril with their thumb cape.” Koyama included a strategy the student to navigate their day. By to be quiet can be hard. So I think and breathe through the left, then to escape one’s thoughts by pictur- reducing stress, a person can sleep it is easier to start working from our alternate, closing the left nostril ing your thoughts being attached to better and have a better appetite. Since college students experi- body to relax ourselves, like some while breathing through the right. clouds and letting them go into the Overall, a person’s well-being will ence a significant amount of stress, slow movements.” While it also helps lower one’s sky. “This way, you are being gen- be improved.” the Student Counseling Services at Koyama explained how she heart rate, “this breathing exercise tle, and non-judgmental about your Mindfulness Meditation work- NEIU invites students, faculty and teaches students to raise their arms is a way of bringing balance in your thoughts. Let them pass by.” shops are held every Monday and staff to learn how to effectively re- up to stretch in addition to neck left and right side of your brain, so What students, faculty, and Thursday at 12:10 p.m.; each session spond to stress through their Mind- and shoulder rotations to loosen your central nervous system be- staff can take away from these lasts for approximately 40 minutes. fulness Meditation workshops. up. These movements allow the comes calmer and stabilized, and workshops is learning techniques Those who wish to participate can Assistant director for training person to start directing their atten- the person feels more at peace.” to be calmer. “You can better fo- go to room B-119 to check in and Dr. Miki Koyama recently told The tion to their body as they begin to “Finally, I will do some sort of cus on your task because you have will be instructed by the person at Independent, those who attend incorporate breathing exercises. guided meditations,” Koyama con- more emotional space. People also the front desk on where to go. learn how to relax their body and “I typically teach one of the tinued, “and silent meditations. I become less agitated and more col- Koyama added that students remain calm through stress. yoga-based breathing techniques. give some sort of instructions on lected, and not as reactive.” Koyama can either walk in or call (773) 442- Koyama mentioned how she Often times, I do something called how to sit and how your posture also cites how the student body can 4650 to make an appointment. Stu- starts off the workshop with stretch- alternate nostril breathing,” Koya- should be with the hands resting benefit from attending these work- dent Counseling Services also offers es and gentle movements. “I believe ma explained. In this breathing ex- on the thighs. I then find a way to shops. “Students can better focus on individual and group counseling, or that we are always so busy all of the ercise, the person is asked to close help them let their thoughts es- their tasks and studies, and it allows even couples’ therapy. time, and coming in with all of this FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | NEWS 5 Flamin’ Hot founder speaks at Goodwin Distinguished Lecture Series Matthew Rago couldn’t see it. What did I see? I saw Editor In Chief the spices, I saw the chile racks. Ev- [email protected] erybody out there likes spices, but [Frito Lay] wasn’t in that category, When PepsiCo. Executive Rich- wasn’t in that business. So I got it. ard Montañez assumed the stage as We’re going to get Frito Lay into the the speaker for the sixth Daniel L. spice game.” Goodwin Distinguished Lecture, he Montañez cited both his igno- spoke with the conviction of a man rance toward protocol and unwav- who has achieved his most ambi- ering determination as an engine tious daydreams. for his success. Undeterred by His self-deprecating humor, procedure, Montañez says he called shouted forcefully from the North- the CEO of Pepsi from his wife’s eastern Illinois University audi- cell phone, laughing in retrospect torium stage, introduced those in about the risks associated with such attendance to the humorous side a daring move. But according to of a man tasked with offering a Montañez, had he not found the humbling message of optimism and courage to introduce his vision or perseverance. And as Montañez simply went through the chain of recounted the racial, economic and command, unfounded fears would social trials he endured on his way result in squandered opportunity. It to prosperity, he did so with a hu- only took Montañez one instant to mility inconsistent with his status. go “from being a janitor to being an Known best for inventing the executive.” recipe that revolutionized Frito “I was floating, I did,” said Lay’s Cheetos brand into the cul- Montañez. “The uneducated janitor tural phenomenon it has become, just spoke to the CEO.” Montañez detailed his ascent from Underneath Montañez’ hum- a “ghetto rich” child from the bling humor and animated de- wrong side of the tracks to PepsiCo meanor lay a narrative of self-moti- executive. But before he became vation and relentless perseverance. the subject of an upcoming biopic, Richard Montañez will be the subject of “Flamin’ Hot,” a biographical film directed by Eva Longoria. His message was clear: remain Montañez was an eight-year-old steadfast in your own ability and child struggling to learn English tañez, a coy smile creeping across an uneducated immigrant looking his family’s legacy, championing opportunity will arise. “Don’t allow and embarrassed by his inability to his face. “I was never created to fit to make a living. his willingness to perform mun- anyone to put you down or prevent conform to a foreign culture. in, I was created to stand out.” “No education, I went to work,” dane jobs to the best of his ability. you from realizing your dreams,” “Make me a bologna sandwich Montañez detailed his untradi- siad Montañez. “I killed chickens When Frito Lay was laboring fi- said Montañez. and cupcake so I can be like the tional route to the stages of NEIU, for a living, I worked at a car wash, nancially, Montañez says the CEO Montañez warned that once other kids,” recalled Montañez, Harvard University and Notre I was a gardener. I did everything informed his employees that they that opportunity presents itself, it is sharing his story of self-discovery. Dame. A high school dropout, I could just trying to survive. One could “act like owners.” According up to us, the student body of North- But according to Montañez, his Montañez is a self-described en- day my friend rolls up and he says to Montañez, he used the oppor- eastern Illinois University, to grasp mother rejected his plea, a rebuke trepreneur. Once unable to read or ‘[Frito Lay] is taking applications, tunity to penetrate the sales floor, destiny with the vice grip befitting that served as a wake up call for write, Montañez is now a best-sell- go apply Richard.’ And I said ‘oh volunteering uncompensated labor of a leader. And along the way, don’t Montañez to embrace his heritage. ing author in the process of writing my god.’ I started to dream. Just in exchange for guidance. It was be afraid to fail or look ridiculous. But Montañez says that as he his second book. He’s set to be the thinking if I could get a job at Frito Montañez’s ability to discover in- “I wanted more,” said Mon- distributed pieces of a cut up burri- subject of an Eva Longoria-directed Lay, I could go from the field to the spiration in the unexceptional that tañez, referring to his desire that to at school, he learned to appreci- film chronicling his life. But despite factory. I could change the legacy opened doors for him. shaped his youth. “I wanted to take ate the power of novelty. accumulating successes at a stag- for the Montañez family.” “One of the greatest revelations that chance. I was hungry. Hunger “All you need is one revelation gering rate, Montañez is transpar- Montañez states that he rel- in PepsiCo was about to take place,” is the antidote for fear. When you’re to create a revolution,” yelled Mon- ent about the obstacles he faced as ished his opportunity to determine said Montañez. ‘[The salesperson] hungry, fear will leave. “ 6 OPINIONS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG OPINION: As a minority voter, I can’t vote Republican. Here’s why. Matthew Rago Earlier this month, President Trump Now a quick scan of conservaive Face- The concept of intersectionality explains that Editor In Chief awarded the Medal of Freedom to conserva- book groups will uncover this idea that lack oppression and hate, even when it’s not di- [email protected] tive pundit Limbaugh. A documented racist, of black representation in the Republican rected at an individual’s own minority demo- Limbaugh, who was recently diagnosed with party is a byproduct of the black American graphic, is a shared struggle. So even when As a biracial man, I cannot bring myself advanced lung cancer, has offered opinions demographic willfully allowing ourselves to racism isn’t directed at us, such rhetoric will to vote Republican in the upcoming 2020 ranging from the NFL, a league where 70% be misled by the Democratic Party. You’ll return once it offers a conservative candidate election. of players are black, being a competition be- read long-winded rants about how it is the a political advantage. Perhaps I turned on the Republican Par- tween “the Bloods and the Crips without any Democrats who are racist and that minority So when the Trump administration ar- ty when the leader of modern conservatism weapons” to claiming all composite pictures voters are simply wrong in their belief about gues that the LGBTQ+ community should be pardoned and endorsed Sheriff Joe Arpaio, of black criminals “resemble Jesse Jackson.” which side promotes and spreads hate. disqualified from the protections of the Civil who referred to his tent cities as “Mexican A little over two years ago, white suprem- There is nothing more insulting than a Rights Act of 1964, note that as an example concentration camps.” acists and neo-Nazis organized the Unite the high school dropout asserting that the most of the common struggle. When the Trump Perhaps it was when I learned white su- Right rally in Charlottesville, Va., marching intelligent black men and women in the Unit- administration contends that immigrant chil- premacists serve in senior advising capacites through the streets while wearing “Make ed States of America are not intellectually dren should not be supplied basic necessities despite disseminating white supremacist America Great Again'' hats. The marchers, capable enough to identify where hate stems such as pillows and toothbrushes, that is a literature. Or maybe it was when President who self-identified as alt-right, white nation- from. shared fight. When the Trump administra- Donald Trump inconceivably awarded a alists, Neo-Nazis and Neo-Confederates--in- But such beliefs stem from blanket de- tion implements a blanket ban against trav- documented racist the Medal of Freedom the cluding former KKK grand wizard David fensiveness or rigid coping mechanisms that elers from several Muslim-majority counties very same week he fired Purple Heart recipi- Duke--chanted racist, anti-Semitic and an- deflect any information that does not confirm based on shared biological characteristics, all ent Alexander Vindman and his twin brother ti-Muslim rhetoric as they championed flags an already embedded bias. Try telling a far- while ignoring the staggering levels of do- because the former testified under oath. donning the swastika and Confederate Flag. right conservative that the parties changed mestic white terrorism, that transmits a clear For the sake of transparency, I don’t find A counterprotester named Heather Heyer ideological platforms during the 20th cen- message. the leftist agenda to be persuasive. I always died after James Alex Fields Jr. deliberately tury, a sociopolitical development enshrined So telling black voters that they should viewed Hillary Clinton as a morally bankrupt accelerated and rammed his car into a resis- by the Smithsonian Institute. Let’s ignore the vote Republican while the Republican Par- presidential candidate. Personally, I think Joe tance group. Heyer’s cause of death was blunt idea that the KKK currently supports the Re- ty routinely embraces explicit racism is an Biden is a creepy old man whose ideology force trauma to the chest. publican Party despite originating as a Dem- ambitious request that requires willful igno- is outdated and inconsistent with modern In November of 2019, Hatewatch exposed ocratic organization. Let’s ignore members of rance. Yes, uneducated factions will fall for trajectories while Bernie Sanders, for all the senior advisor to the White House Stephen the Nixon administration appearing on cam- mindless finger-pointing, but for those who good he hopes to accomplish, embodies far Miller for pushing white nationalist literature era claiming the War on Drugs was meant to have studied history and how it relates to the left radicalism. and ideas with far-right media outlet Breitba- harm the black and leftist communities. current political climate, we are voting for the Yet for all the issues infecting the Demo- rt. Miller, who influences immigration poli- According to Nixon’s former domestic imperfect blue over the malicious red. cratic Party, I still can’t vote right. cies, still holds his position to this day. policy chief John Ehrlichman, “The Nixon We are witnessing the open promotion An interesting development has surfaced As a half-black voter, it is my respon- campaign in 1968, and the Nixon White and tolerance of racism, corruption and within minority political factions. Prominent sibility to consider why hate groups feel so House after that, had two enemies: the anti- bigotry. Level-minded people are left with a figures like Kanye West and Candace Owens, emboldened under the leadership of Don- war left and black people." feeling of near-helplessness as the unqualified the latter who denies political developments ald Trump. What about his message allows "You understand what I'm saying?” con- assume positions of the utmost importance enshrined in the Smithsonian Museum in veiled hate to evolve into organized marches? tinued Ehrlichman. “We knew we couldn't while documented racists such as Jeff Ses- Washington D.C., are promoting the con- Furthemore, why did former Ku Klux Klan make it illegal to be either against the war or sions are being nominated and confirmed servative platform under the contention that Grand Wizard David Duke appear on camera black, but by getting the public to associate to the highest positions, freeing the way for the Democrats have done nothing for mi- promising to “fulfill the promises of Trump?” the hippies with marijuana and blacks with them to use their authority to demonize en- nority Americans. This is what we call “false Why does white supremacist and Neo-Nazi heroin and then criminalizing both heavily, tire demographics. consciousness” a phenomenon that sees a activist Richard Spencer, who calls for the we could disrupt those communities. We So when minority voters flood the bal- partially educated person obtain a superficial subjagation of other races, stand behind a could arrest their leaders. raid their homes, lots, remember that there’s no gray area be- understanding of a topic and latch onto it. It’s podium and chant “heil Trump?” break up their meetings and vilify them night tween rejecting racism and entertaining it. It’s an artificial way to embolden and empower Ignoring the explicit hatred, let’s exam- after night on the evening news. Did we know not feasible for America’s leadership on the oneself without actually having to dive into ine congressional representation. Currently, we were lying about the drugs? Of course we fence about intolerance. When the current the facts. there is only one black Republican in Con- did." administration adopts implicit and explicit But let’s examine why black voters should gress. One. His name is Will Hurd and in Sound familiar? It’s the very same political racial rhetoric and policy at their conve- not vote for the current rendition of the Re- August of 2019, he announced his upcoming tactic recycled by the Trump administration, nience, please pay attention. It's time to make publican Party. retirement. only this time, it’s redirected as immigrants. a change. FFEBRUARY 25, 2020 | OPINIONS 7 OPINION: Is mainstream rap harming

Jack Poskus minority youth? Writer

In today’s age of mainstream music, Messages like these will always be tak- it’s apparent that one genre has an up- en to heart by their target audiences, and per-hand on the rest, essentially monop- with this example in particular, the mi- olizing the airwaves in the process. Of nority youth has been able to make their course, said genre goes by a number of dif- voices heard. Spreading positivity and en- ferent names, though it’s most commonly couraging this kind of action is something referred to as rap or hip-hop. Over time, that we can be proud of, and part of it can the rap/hip-hop genre has been segment- be credited to the artists who continue to ed into a number of subgenres, including promote it. what has become endearingly and mock- But for the sake of this argument, ingly referred to as trap or mumble rap, if one were to play the devil’s advocate, though it would be hard to argue that the detractors could exploit the presence of genre as a whole hasn’t evolved since its vulgar and explicit lyricism displayed by inception in the 1970s. some of today’s rap artists. For example, Since its birth, hundreds, if not thou- Bobby Shmurda and YNW Melly were im- sands, of artists have used their platform prisoned for rapping about actual murder. to spread either culturally empowering Obviously, the activities and messages ex- or countercultural messages. However, pressed by these artists are not acceptable despite the emergence of superficial mes- by any means, regardless of one’s relation sages that promote unobtainable lifestyles, to the artist or genre. artists such as Tupac Shakur, Nas and Pixabay However, it should be the responsibili- Kanye West have made invaluable societal ty of parents to monitor the kind of behav- contributions, using their reign atop the The last thing we should entertain is supressing the future generation's voice and values. ior that their child may exert, especially if rap mountain to open the eyes of even the the child is exposed to the genre and its most jaded listeners. States. However relative apathy toward inter- testing police brutality. messages. And it’s not like we haven’t seen But in recent years, due to the seemingly national disparities in gun crime and doubt In the months following these events, cases of mirrored behavior before. rapid growth of violent activity spotlighted surrounding the effectiveness in gun legisla- hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar released To For example, in the 1990s, everyone want- in the news and on social media, scholars are tion--gun advocates cite the United Kingdom Pimp A Butterfly, an album that confronts ed to look like they were in a boy band, and in beginning to consider whether mainstream as proof that gun control is ineffective--inev- racial oppression. Lamar’s effort encompasses the early 2000s, everyone wanted to look like rap is a possible cause of violent trajectories, itably play a part in tragedies like the death a wide variety of themes, with the style and Pauly D or Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino especially among minority youth. of 20-year-old rapper Pop Smoke. Impending structure of this album essentially revolution- from Jersey Shore. Although these cases ar- With the rise of certain subgenres of rap, societal factors, an unsafe home environment izing the way we view music. en’t as extreme as some of those we see today, such as party rap and underground hip-hop, and even political policies can play a role in a By the same token, Lamar ignited the it accurately depicts how easily multimedia comes increasingly controversial lyricism, youth’s development, as well. flame inside many individuals, encouraging can dictate our culture. which in turn promotes countercultural mes- As the genre distances itself from the lyr- and inspiring those who desire change the Being able to voice our thoughts and sages like gang affiliation, drug use, woman- ical norms that dominated yesteryear’s rap, most. As a result, hundreds of Black Lives opinions is what defines us as humans, and if izing and even murder. mainstream rappers have evolved, offering Matter protesters chanted “We gon’ be al- we were to label mainstream rap as a potential However, before we hint at placing the more relatable and personable personas. To- right,” which are lyrics from Kendrick La- harming factor among minority youth, we’d blame on mainstream rap for disrupting the day’s rap artists create more infectious beats mar’s “Alright.” be doing rap itself a major disservice. The last peace among minority youth, it’s important and relatable lyrics, concepts that some rap- While at first glance the album may seem thing we should entertain is suppressing the to consider other possible negative influenc- pers over the past few decades temporarily like any other rap album, tracks like “Alright” future generation’s voices and values. And for es. gravitated away from. are breathtaking narratives that portray the some of those who may reside in less than For example, an ongoing issue plaguing And when doing so, the public, especially hardships endured by a minority male. On ideal living situations, music is an easily ac- American society is the topic of gun control the youth, has been socialized to idolize these this track, Kendrick argues that regardless of cessible art form where one can feel free from and violence. While this debate won’t be end- larger-than-life figures. One way we can mea- who or what may knock us down, we must all and any distractions. ing anytime soon when considering the im- sure the influence of an artist is through the always get back up and keep our heads held As for the rap game, the ground that has pacts of gun violence and mainstream rap on public’s reaction. In late 2014, the Ferguson high. As powerful as the protests of move- been made up by mainstream rap has indis- minority youth, the former heavily outweighs protests were a national headline for weeks. ments like the Black Lives Matter are, it shows putably made an impact on pop culture, and the latter. In response to the killing of African-Amer- minority demographics how one artist can given the success of rappers in the last de- Japan’s near-eradication of gun crime ican man Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., influence the masses on such a monumental cade, the potential for new rappers to flourish should be an eye-opener for the United people nationwide gathered in hopes of pro- scale. in the new decade is sky high. 8 OPINIONS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG Letter to the Editor: The apology was not enough.

Sara Galván Orozco are the following departments that should at- will take place after this post. If there are no documented Student Resource website. These NEIU student majoring in Studio Art and tend an undocumented student ally training preventive measures being taken, then the are only a few needs to mention. Latino(a) and Latin American Studies, immediately along with the Marketing and apology means nothing. I am stating these as needs of Luvia be- member of ChiMexLA and editor-in-chief Communication: Financial Aid, Accounts It is important to note that this is just a cause I cannot, in good conscience, refer to of Que Ondee Sola magazine. Receivable, Admissions/Transfer and Student piece of the bigger issue that NEIU needs to them as needs of the Undocumented Student Employment. As a matter of fact, attending fix. There needs to be active and purposeful Resource Department because there is no an undocumented ally training once is not student involvement within departments. Lu- department. The Undocumented Student Re- The Instagram photo “I’m ill-eagle” that enough. All NEIU departments should be via Moreno, the Assistant Dean of Students source appears to be a one-woman show with was posted on Valentine’s Day, exhibited attending an Undocumented Student Ally and Director of Undocumented Student the support of some faculty and staff who cultural incompetence from the Division Training at least every Spring and Fall semes- Resource needs much more than an office to step out of their positions to support Luvia’s of Marketing and Communications. The ter. support NEIU’s undocumented/DACAment- mission. Undocumented Student Ally Training is not The undocumented/DACAmented expe- ed community. To Luvia Moreno and those who step in, enough. Going to one training is not enough. rience is not static, therefore, we need to build Luvia needs a center that should be staffed thank you for all the hard work you put into An apology is not enough. All NEIU depart- a culture of overall continuous learning. You with competent mental health professionals supporting and empowering the students. ments should be required to complete the cannot learn nor train the complexities of mi- who speak Spanish so that our students can To end, as a leader on campus, I have undocumented student ally training in efforts gration-related trauma within a three-hour begin their healing journey in the language firsthand seen the impact that NEIU's faulty to minimize further damage, cultivate a wel- training. This band-aid will not take care of they feel comfortable with if need be. Luvia decisions have caused on my peers. We de- coming environment and a sense of support the bigger wound that has now been exposed. needs a team that can support and address serve and expect better from NEIU. We are and belonging for our students. Intention does not matter at this point; what the concerns, needs and development of our tired of apologies and we need action. Do not According to student experiences, these matters is the impact and the actions that undocumented students, as stated on the Un- apologize, do better.

OPINION: We should have open borders in the south Ankush Vyas up to 180 days. Canadian citizens do require ty of being killed at the border or separated drugs and crime with them. In his presi- Online Editor a visa if they plan to study, work, invest or from their families and losing their children. dential announcement speech on June 16, [email protected] immigrate. Ultimately, if Mexican citizens were allowed 2015, Trump accused Mexican citizens of Because they can visit the United States, to visit the United States in the same manner “bringing drugs” and “crime” into the United A number of immigration issues have Canadian citizens are more familiar with as Canadian citizens, families wouldn’t be States, and topped it off by calling Mexicans surfaced during President Donald Trump’s American culture and the opportunities separated at such staggering rates. “rapists.” But there is no concrete evidence presidency. Many of these issues--such as available, making it easier for Canadians to It's time to open borders in the that suggests immigrants are more likely to border security, the construction of a wall assimilate. More importantly, they are able to south to visitors. Every person who enters commit a crime. Acting upon concerns rather on the southern border, detainment, depor- build a social network of safety nets, plan out the United States from the southern border than concrete evidence is just irrational and tation of undocumented immigrants and their living requirements and gain access to would have a public and documented record inspires societal division. family separation at the U.S. border--are is- work institutions without having to deal with that can help the government track those who If the United States' concern is that it sues relating primarily to immigrants coming immigration issues in their future. overstay in the United States. If this is done, will destroy itself, then I believe such con- from the U.S.-Mexico border. However, these On the other hand, Mexican citi- no one coming from the U.S.-Mexico border cern is misplaced. Currently, The European same issues do not extend to the U.S.-Canada zens coming from the U.S.-Mexico border could be killed or separated from their fam- Union has open border policies that allow border as the U.S.-Canada border is regulated are required to have a visa to enter the United ilies and children. Of less importance, more 27 countries to openly share borders among differently than the U.S.-Mexico border. States, even for leisure purposes. The United tourists would boost the U.S. economy and themselves for positive sociopolitical and While Canadian citizens are not required States issues visas on a case-by-case basis, expose Mexicans and Central Americans to economic relations. If the 27 countries that to possess a visa to enter the United States, where every individual is profiled and has a U.S. culture. More tourism will lead to the are part of the European Union can agree on Mexican immigrants are. According to U.S. greater chance of having their visa denied. advancement of communication and a better open border policies, the United States can do Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Ca- Meanwhile, Canadians aren’t bound by visa understanding between the United States and the same with Mexico and potentially Central nadian citizens only require a valid Canadian requirements such as obtaining a B-1 tourist Mexico, subsequently reducing tensions be- America. An open border will stop the mean- passport or another form of identification, visa. Unlike Canadian citizens, the Mexican tween the two countries. ingless persecution and killing of migrants such as an enhanced driver's license or en- citizens who seek safety or asylum have to Against that view, many argue that and the separation of families. hanced identification card, to legally visit for worry about crossing borders, the possibili- Mexicans will invade the country, bringing FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | ARTS & LIFE 9 Margie Criner’s sculptures explore

Matthew Rago nostalgia, secrecy Editor In Chief [email protected] dience to appreciate the designs of the outer living vicariously through Criner. Her work It changed the way I looked at my own lim- structure before experiencing the homeliness represents a reprieve from everyday stressors itations.” and tranquility afforded by the perception of as viewers plunge headfirst into Criner’s sub- Free-spirited and full of laughter, Criner’s Through the end of February, the NEIU secrecy. “Lean in and get more intimate with conscious. art mirrors her escape from the standards Fine Arts Gallery will display “Hide & Seek,” a the work by peeking through the portal and Criner describes her inspiration as a wist- of her “domineering” mother. According to compilation of sculptor Margie Criner’s fond- seeing the narrative inside,” suggests Criner. ful deviation from the redundancy of routine. Criner, her mother was very protective of her est and most impactful childhood secrets. Once viewers advance beyond the wood- Citing a piece titled “Far From Home,” Cri- own comfort zone, imposing her own param- Featuring miniature displays meticulous- en casing, they are greeted by Criner’s inter- ner explains the significance of a swimming eters onto her children. “I can speak for my ly placed inside larger wooden structures, pretation of a miniature world, one that is pool, which she describes as representative siblings, we really didn’t challenge my mom,” Criner hopes to manipulate perception and either elongated or abbreviated through the of “a vacation getting away from your chaotic laughed Criner. activate curiosity. Muted from afar, each piece use of painstakingly positioned mirrors. The everyday life.” Criner uses her learned confidence to offers viewers a second perspective should experience is illustrative of the beauty of pa- Criner credits “Far From Home” with ex- expand her own boundaries. Striving to con- they care to inspect a little closer. tience and scrutiny. ploring the malleability of time, place and ex- front the standards of conventional art, Cri- Criner’s work is open to interpretation. “Hide & Seek” is suggestive of the seduc- perience. Our agents of socialization directly ner dismisses the notion that fear dictates While each of Criner’s pieces are inspired by tion of privacy, a concept probed by sociol- impact our understanding of the piece, ac- choice. Her departure from “practical art- her own childhood experiences, Criner pur- ogist Erving Goffman, whose theory of the cording to Criner, who shared her experience work” represents her personal maturation. posely leaves her work abstract enough to in- performed self contends that people wear of crossing a hazardous suspension bridge as By embracing risk and rejecting con- spire contemplation. proverbial masks to guard our inner selves. a child, which she says would be “a liability” ventional wisdom, Criner affords herself an “They’re generally stories from my child- Each of Criner’s pieces showcases a for- by today’s standards. infinite canvas to explore her artistic genius. hood,” said Criner. “Memories, dreams I had midable wooden structure that jealously “I was scared to death and my dad said, And as her beautiful miniature displays offer or vacations. But also they are open-end- guards her formative memories. Only by ‘Just go hand over hand across the bridge and a vivid world inside a wooden home, Criner’s ed so that the viewer can put in their own peering through the minuscule window of- hold the rope,’” shared Criner. “It took me artistic courage is on full display. memory or stories. I don’t want to be super fered by Criner are viewers able to penetrate 40 minutes to get from one end to the oth- “[My experiences] taught me to not put heavy-handed. I want other people to relate Criner’s--and by extension their own--faint- er. Then I was excited that I did it so I did it fear in the driver’s seat. It’s okay to be afraid, to it and not just be a voyeur.” est memories. the other way back. Eventually, I was running but that does not mean that fear has to drive Criner challenges her audience to first However, despite only serving as a brief back and forth across the bridge and it was a the car. I could be afraid and still move for- view her pieces from a distance before ex- escape from reality, “Hide & Seek” allows moment that I went, ‘I conquered my fears!’ ward in life.” amining the inner artwork. She asks her au- viewers to appreciate the lure of nostalgia by

Matthew Rago 10 ARTS & LIFE | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG INTERVIEW: Four Year Strong talk Brain Pain, upcoming tour Matthew Rago Circles’ kind of deal with different aspects, Editor In Chief where ‘Circles’ deals with the idea that you’re [email protected] constantly doing the same thing over and over again with no different results, which is Following a five-year hiatus from music the definition of insanity. ‘Brain Pain’ is more production, anthemic punk rockers Four about trying to leave your mark on the world Year Strong returned energized, rejuvenat- and if you are leaving the mark you want to ed and ready to take the pop punk world by l e av e .” storm. On Feb. 28, the Worcester quintet are But while both “Brain Pain” and “Talking scheduled to release Brain Pain, their seventh Myself In Circles” are built on a foundation studio album, via Pure Noise Records. The of pointed lyricism and relatable narratives, very same day, Four Year Strong--vocalist/ each is abstract enough for listeners to inject guitarist Dan O’Connor, vocalist/guitarist their own interpretations. O’Connor says that Alan Day, bassist Joe Weiss and drummer he and Day strive to share their story in a way Jake Massocco--will fuse the calamity of that allows their audience to relate to their post-hardcore with the acceleration of pop music on the most intimate level. punk as they tour in support of Silverstein’s Collectively, Four Year Strong brought 20th Anniversary Tour. ideas to fruition that would have gone un- Throughout their 19-year tenure, Four realized under different circumstances. Ac- Year Strong has been celebrated for their Facebook @fouryearstrong cording to O’Connor, a stronger grasp on the unruly energy, each effort interpretable as a nuances of songwriting combined with the rallying cry for a forlorn generation. While “Everyone goes through those situations where luxury of thoroughly explored proposals to the first three singles off Brain Pain--“Talking you just think, ‘F*ck it, I don’t give a sh*t,’ and you’re make Brain Pain one of--if not the--best al- Myself In Circles,” “Learn to Love the Lie” ready to burn it all to the ground. But if someone bum under the Four Year Strong banner. and the eponymous “Brain Pain”-- represent O’Connor’s evident pride in Brain Pain different ends of the instrumental spectrum, extended a hand, you’ll probably take it.” is reflected by his unbridled enthusiasm. each number illustrates an evocative sense of Untethered to personal or professional dead- indefiniteness and aimlessness. -Dan O’Connor, Vocalist/Guitarist lines, the care put into assembling Brain Pain According to O’Connor, the decision to led to what O’Connor describes as a reawak- introduce the band’s first studio album in to interrogate the impact of emotional and mands of punk rock, O’Connor states that the ening for Four Year Strong. over five years with “Talking Myself In Cir- psychological traumas, the band’s trademark purpose of the album developed organically. “It’s the first time we ever did that without cles” and “Brain Pain” was a calculated deci- intensity is readily present throughout “Brain Spawned from a series of internal dilemmas any kind of time or personal restraints that sion meant to advertise both sides of the re- Pain.” encountered by Day and O’Connor, both we put on ourselves,” said O’Connor. “But I cord. While those involved favored “Talking O’Connor says “Brain Pain,” which oper- “Brain Pain” and “Talking Myself In Circles” think this record as a whole will speak for Myself In Circles,” O’Connor admits that the ates as a tormenting depiction of the desire detail the juxtaposition between a desire for itself. Especially when trying to pick singles, decision to subsequently release “Brain Pain” for security amid self-inflicted chaos, devel- routine and the agitation of redundancy mas- I’d just point to a song and that’d be fine to was an attempt to offset what some fans might oped through O’Connor and Day’s struggle querading as comfort. put out as a single. We never really had that perceive as a milder direction. with self-recognition. Referencing “Brain “When we were writing this record, [Alan feeling. Instead of it being a couple of singles “[We] were a little worried about releas- Pain’s” first verse, O’Connor cites “Smash it and I] were both going through this, for lack and a bunch of filler, for the first time we put ing ‘[Talking Myself in] Circles’ first because all, catch me as I fall” as the best representa- of a better term, identity crisis,” said O’Con- out a record that has all the dynamics and sto- it could give the impression that the record tion of the album’s thematic direction. nor. “When I’m on tour, I’m the guy on stage rytelling. Musically and lyrically, that kind of is in [a milder] vein and less heavy,” said “It starts out being such an aggressive who screams at kids to go crazy and jump fits together as a whole.” O’Connor. “We were kind of like, ‘Well why sentiment, but ends up being a plea for help,” off stuff. Then when I’m at home, I have two The ability to probe and scrutinize their not release ‘Circles’ to show what one end of explained O’Connor. “Everyone goes through daughters and I spend a lot of my time with own musical genius was therapeutic for a the spectrum is and also release ‘Brain Pain,’ those situations where you just think, ‘F*ck it, them trying to be really active in their lives- band entering their third decade together. which is kind of the opposite end of the spec- I don’t give a sh*t,’ and you’re ready to burn it -PTA conferences, trying to be professional Haunted by a graveyard of abandoned con- trum.” all to the ground. But if someone extended a here and do all that stuff. cepts, Four Year Strong afforded themselves While Four Year Strong blends the ele- hand, you’ll probably take it.” “A lot of the record actually deals with the opportunity to harness their artistic ca- ments of post-hardcore, pop punk and emo Balancing fatherhood against the de- that. ‘Brain Pain’ and ‘[Talking Myself in] BRAIN PAIN/ page 12 FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | ARTS & LIFE 11 INTERVIEW: Theory talk new album, pointed lyricism Matthew Rago friends and countrymen. “If we can help one Editor In Chief person, then we’ve done our job,” explained [email protected] Dandaneau. “If we can get 1% [of the world] on board to try and make the world a better Theory (formerly Theory of a Deadman) place, then we’ve done our jobs.” wants listeners to open their minds, expand While Theory’s instrumentals surrender their parameters and join them on their voy- the spotlight to Say Nothing’s blunt lyricism, age from anthemic party rockers to interro- Dandaneau states that there’s a lot to appre- gators of society’s most glaring faults. Once ciate about the musicianship. An increased celebrated for resounding riffs atop youthful emphasis on drums, Brenner’s weeping gui- expressions of recklessness, the multi-plat- tar and vocalist Tyler Connolly’s newfound inum Canandian rockers recently adopted passion for the piano--which Dandaneau a contemporary approach to songwriting, a describes as a new beginning to Connolly’s direction that drummer Joey Dandaneau de- songwriting-- drive the band’s evolution into scribes as purposeful and intentional. minimalist artists. Last month, Theory--Dandaneau, vo- Dandaneau says, “I think there’s still a calist Tyler Connolly, bassist Dean Beck and lot of great stuff that [fans] need to listen to. guitarist Dave Brenner--released their sev- Listen to the simplicity of it. If you listen to enth studio album, Say Nothing, a 10-song the drumming, for example, you can literally collection which examines blind political hear every single tiny part that I’m playing. allegiances, the traumas of domestic abuse Photo courtesy of Theory Every snare roll makes such a massive differ- and society’s inability to reconcile its ideolog- ence to the song. I think that’s more exciting.” ical fissures. However, despite its forthright “And it has this feel that you can’t get from a guitar. According to Dandaneau, adopting the lyricism, Say Nothing is most notable for its I think Say Nothing is massive sounding because piano into the Theory brand opened up new scaled back instrumental direction. Accord- of that. It adds this ominous, dark and dramatic feel horizons for a band that has already collect- ing to Dandaneau, cooperative instrumentals that I think has taken our sound to the next level.” ed four No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Mainstream allow the band to concede the spotlight to the Rock Charts. The Theory drummer says that album’s message. once the band exhausted traditional chord “We had strong messages that we needed -Joey Dandaneau, Drummer progressions, the discovery of the piano un- to convey,” said Dandaneau. “Lyrically, we felt covered avenues previously unexplored, pro- as a band that simplifying our music would as a plea to “say nothing” in lieu of spreading what’s real, what’s not, what’s right and what’s viding a new dynamic for Theory to consider. allow us to have more attention focused on and defending misinformed opinions. wrong. So, this term ‘say nothing’ is that “It sounds massive, it sounds dramat- the lyrics. As musicians, we’ve grown. We’ve “You can’t get away from it,” said Dan- sometimes people just need to stop talking.” ic,” gushed Dandaneau. “And it has this feel learned that more is less.” daneau. “There’s just things we need to talk But while Dandaneau admits that Theory that you can’t get from a guitar. I think Say Say Nothing mirrors the maturation of a about now that are problems. And some isn’t trying to lecture their audience, they do Nothing is massive sounding because of that. band willing to adapt to the current music people are affected by it in one way, shape or hope to use their platform and charitable con- It adds this ominous, dark and dramatic feel scene without deviating too far away from form. Lyrically, we’re not leaning to one side tributions to connect with fans and help bring that I think has taken our sound to the next their own identity. when it comes to something political. All awareness to persistent issues. Referencing l e v e l .” According to Dandaneau, Theory “still we’re talking about are the issues at the fore- the lyricism in “Strangers,” Dandaneau says With the melodic “History of Violence” wants to be a current band and make cur- front and allowing people to be more aware of it’s “goofy” that neighbors can’t look one an- rising to No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream rent music.” However, rather than promote it, if they aren’t already. Issues like domestic other in the eye without rehashing political Rock Songs chart, the sky is the limit for the superfluous messages, Say Nothing takes a violence, drug addiction and things like that. disagreements. Dandaneau asks listeners to Canadian rock quartet. In an era that suffered sobering, nonpartisan look at today’s social We are trying to connect with people that “do their homework and find the vetted solu- through clumsy attempts at reinventing rock climate. may have experienced it firsthand or maybe tion,” rather than allowing far-left or far-right to appeal to fans of adjacent genres, Theory Unfortunately, despite the devastating they know somebody that’s gone through it. sites to indoctrinate their audiences. appears to have discovered the elusive bal- impacts of domestic violence and America’s Everybody’s got a story. More important than playing hero or po- ance between the calamity of yesterday and drug epidemic, misinformation has run ram- “I know a lot of people don’t know where litical martyr is basic human kindness. Dan- the pensivity of tomorrow. But while the fu- pant, suppressing meaningful dialogue. Ac- to get proper information from because daneau hopes to use his spotlight to stunt the cording to Dandaneau, the album title serves there’s so many avenues of information on hostility that drives a wedge between family, SAY NOTHING/ page 12 12 ARTS & LIFE | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG

any band that’s been together that long usu- favor,” said O’Connor. “I think Silverstein’s BRAIN PAIN ally doesn’t have this burst of inspiration, re- going to have more of the heavy, screamo Continued from 10 newed passion and drive. kind of vibe and we’re going to bring in more “We wanted to give ourselves the oppor- of the pop punk, rock music kind of crowd pacity. tunity to be creative and figuratively spread and I think they are all going to find a com- Says O’Connor, “I think that really helped our wings as much as we can. [We wanted to] mon synergy in the crowd. We’ve both been us exorcise our musical demons in some push back the boundaries of what people and around for a long time and I think we both ways. I have this weird theory when you have ourselves see as what defines the edge of Four understand what we need to do to put on the an idea that you don’t fully take to fruition Year Strong. And the fact that we did this best show possible so. I think it’s going to be a and finish, where you just kind of move on record and it came out like it did--we love it really awesome fun night of music. “ from it, I feel like that idea keeps coming back so much. I feel like the band is going to be a O’Connor was transparent about his ex- up until you fully realize it and everytime we much stronger entity because of this record.” pectations ahead of their April 7 tour date in wrote a song we were able to fully realize an Socialized by the aggression and dis- Chicago. Citing Chicago as one of the turbu- idea.” orderliness of the Boston pop punk scene, lent environments for pop punk, O’Connor Throughout their 19-year tenure as a Four Year Strong is recognized for putting reminisced on Four Year Strong’s first trip to band, Four Year Strong has collected five their heart and soul into every performance. Chicago, a sold out performance at the Metro top-100 Billboard releases. They’ve shared O’Connor and Day will yell in your face and in 2009. Eager and riotous, O’Connor asks the stage with acts such as Blink-182, Rise demand energy, emboldening seasoned fans Chicago fans to anticipate Four Year Strong’s Against and Bring Me The Horizon. Yet de- of Four Year Strong while coaxing those un- trademark intensity when they visit Concord spite their commercial success and reputation familiar with their brand of pop punk into Music Hall. for influencing pop punk’s newer, edgier di- forfeiting their reservations. “There will be more energy than you rection, O’Connor states that the band refus- Later this month, Four Year Strong will know what to do with. Every night when we es to rest of its laurels, instead relying on au- embark upon a tour alongside Silverstein and play, we try to give everything we have to that thenticity and humility to enhance the Four I the Mighty in support of Silverstein’s 20th show. My job is to not only get the kids who Year Strong brand. Anniversary tour. Galvanized by the staying do know my band excited but also kids who Says O’Connor, “Brain Pain is going to power of MySpace-era pop punk, O’Connor have never heard our band before. By the end be seen as the beginning of a 2.0 renassisance says he expects the diverse lineup to recruit of our show, my job is to get them into it and for Four Year Strong. We’ve been a band for fans of rock’s adjacent subgenres to one place. excited to be part of our world no matter how almost 20 years. I don’t have to tell you that “I think it’s going to work in everybody’s big or how small the venue is.”

SAY NOTHING we always will. But with this new stuff, we’ve Says Dandaneau, “It seems like anxiety Continued from 11 designed a lighting package that has enabled and depression is so vast in the world we live us to create this dark, ominous, dramatic in today.I think a lot of people who have nev- ture remains bright for Theory, Dandaneau show. We incorporate the piano and we roll er heard [World Keeps Spinning] might hear says they are content living in the present. the piano out in the middle of the set. We that song and connect with it immediately “This record is our main focus and we have a lighting design that really encompass- because chances are they’ve experienced anx- are going to tour the pants off of it and get es this feeling. Everything that we’ve done on iety or depression in some way, shape or form in as many shows as possible, in front of as stage is done on purpose. It’s a very cool show in their life.” many people as possible to get our message to look at.” Dandaneau’s passion reverberates with across. People are going to realize that we ar- With Theory’s headlining tour in full every word he speaks. His love for his craft is en’t one-dimensional.” swing and fans digesting Say Nothing--Dan- readily apparent as he details his appreciation Theory will bring their Say Nothing daneau cites “Ted Bundy” as a surprise for having a platform to inspire and help oth- World Tour 2020 to the Rave in Milwaukee, hit--Theory are soaring high above the rock ers. He asks for fans to join hands with The- Wis. on May 2, with 10 Years playing in sup- mountain. With an album that offers nar- ory as they attempt to make a difference one port. Dandaneau says that while the band ratives which mirror Theory’s maturation lyric at a time. won’t overwhelm concertgoers with blinding from an act defined by high-energy to pur- “We put our heart and soul into this light shows or an exaggerated stage presence, pose-driven storytellers, it feels as though stuff and we love what we do. And we want Theory will offer a dramatic ambiance that nothing can slow Theory down. as many people to come on this journey with complements both their message and sound. Offering a message of optimism for those us as possible. As we change as individuals, “We’ve never been a run around stage, impacted by the themes of Say Nothing, The- we want our fans to do the same and move jump on and off of ramps, pyro kind of band,” ory has partnered with PLUS1 to donate $1 forward in life and be happy. We want them said Dandaneau. “Never have been. We’ve al- from every ticket sold to help combat domes- to help people, not tear them down. We just ways been quieter and slower. We’ve designed tic violence. Speaking on behalf of Theory, want to grab as many as possible. We need with our director a really dramatic kind of Dandaneau offers refuge for those affected by everybody’s support to do that. We want to show. mental health issues or physical or emotional build this brand and we want people to sup- “We of course have to play the older stuff, abuse. port it. We want everyone to be a part of it.” FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | ARTS & LIFE 13 Community Get Down: A showcase of Chicago’s house music culture Rachel Willard Arts & Life Editor by cosmic sounds vibrating through the What also sets the Community Get Down [email protected] speakers. The rhythm and energy through- events apart from other events happening out the venue was immediately palpable and across the city is the welcoming, all-inclu- smiles could be seen across the sea of faces sive atmosphere. The house/techno music Recognized as the birthplace of house in the crowd. The feeling of friendship and scene was curated in Chicago back in the music, Chicago has a rich heritage of thump- love was in the air as people danced, grabbed late 70s, with principles that encouraged uni- ing bass and strobing lights. Once confined to drinks and mingled. ty through a shared love for the music. The a single club on the South Side of Chicago, On the dance floor, members of the Chi- house music community was and is a place house music has experienced a remarkable cago Shufflers, a family-oriented dance com- of acceptance where anyone is welcomed and surge in popularity, becoming the central munity in Chicago, impressed attendees with able to freely be their authentic self without point of populous festivals and clubs world- their enthusiasm and spirited energy. The judgment. Attendees enjoying games at Community wide, as well as nurturing a vibrant commu- performers strutted their stuff and showed off The values of the house music communi- Get Down nity. The Community Get Down maintains their talents and individuality through dance ty carry on today in Chicago, Villegas noted. the Windy City’s house music pulse, offering while the crowd and their friends cheered. “The ‘Community Get Down’ event is basical- an event defined by a sense of camaraderie The Community Get Down felt like a ly about getting people together to celebrate and celebration. place to laugh, dance and play with your life through music, food and art and through Music, food, games and friendship de- friends as people bobbed their heads to the positive interactions,”he said. “That’s exact- fined the fourth installation of the Commu- music while unleashing their inner child, tak- ly what it is, it’s different people from every nity Get Down, which lasted 12 hours (1 p.m. ing advantage of an abundance of nostalgic way of life come together to come as one, you to 1 a.m.) at Replay Arcade Bar in Lincoln arcade games available at the event. know, essentially it’s basically the mantra of Park on Feb. 16. The event is hosted by What’s Villegas, one of the founders of Commu- why we started the ‘Community Get Down.’” Good Chicago?, a Facebook community of nity Get Down spoke with “The Indepen- Villegas fostered an ever growing passion 13,000 dedicated to promoting the diversity dent” regarding the origins and motivation for music starting in his early youth. D.J. Williamson member of the Chicago of Chicago’s social scenes. The Communi- behind the event series and what people can “I actually grew up on house music. I Shuffler ty Get Down events were started by Steven expect when attending one. grew up on house music, freestyle, hip hop, Royale, founder of What’s Good Chicago?, Villegas explained, “We [Villegas and rock and punk since I was a kid.” and Humberto Villegas, also known as DJ Royale] really just wanted a place for all of Villegas’s mother played a vital role in his Eleven11, whose birthday celebrations coin- our friends to play and to showcase what exploration and exposure to all kinds of mu- cided with the event. we were all about, and that house music and sic while he grew up. The fourth Community Get Down in- dance music and our community, in general, “My mom was born in [19]68 but she cluded intricately designed Lord of the Rings was about lifting each other up and it’s about grew up in Chicago on the Southside. She’s decorations to go along with over 65 arcade giving people opportunities and everything from Mexico though, but she moved here games. The soundtrack for the night was pro- to showcase that Chicago is the home of a when she was around 12 years old…She real- vided by a lineup which showcased eleven very talented and diverse cultural group.” ly allowed me to open my mind up to certain DJs, including Dead Space--a tech house art- The Community Get Down events aim to things and she had a really open mind to ev- Eleven11 (Humberto Villegas) performing at ist from Orlando, Fla. Dead Space performed encapsulate friendship, art, music and most erything. So when I was growing up, literally the Community Get Down a two-hour set at 7:30 P.M., invigorating and importantly a sense of community and be- my parents’ house was filled with Mexican impressing the crowd throughout what can longing into an experience that brings peo- music, banda, cumbia and then it was also be described as a musical expedition. ple from any and all backgrounds together to like hip hop, freestyle, house music and like The lineup also showcased rising talents celebrate life. club music and like all sorts of things.” including, Desadeca, Alan Ray, Brittany Beers Said Villegas, “When you come to a Villegas decided on the name Eleven11 and many more. Eleven11 put on a strong ‘Community Get Down’ you obviously get two years ago. He pulled the inspiration from performance to follow up Dead Space’s set. the music and you get the bar, but aside the timestamp 11:11 which has different Local up-and-coming producer and DJ, Me- from that you also get a bunch of free arcade meanings in numerology relating to intro- Kington, closed out the night by keeping the games, you get the networking, you get the spection, intuition and manifestation. People pulsating house music vibes flowing for all various art installations that are built around are encouraged to make a wish if they happen those who couldn’t get enough of the Com- the venue, you also get to experience different to glance at the time and it is 11:11. Dead Space and Steven Royale, founder of munity Get Down atmosphere. merch and artist vendors that are local to the What’s Good Chicago? embrace at event. Upon entering, attendees were welcomed community.” GET DOWN/ page 14 Event photos courtesy of Shot By Stasi, Instagram @shotbystasi 14 ARTS & LIFE | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG

say at 11:11, ‘I wish that my family would be GET DOWN better.’ I would you know, look up to the stars Continued from 13 and everything like that.” Villegas, who has compassion for those For Villegas, making a wish at 11:11 in need built from his childhood experienc- was something that helped him persevere es, made sure that the Community Get Down through tough times and obstacles that trans- gives back to people in the Chicago commu- pired during his upbringing in the Little Vil- nity. Through their past events, they have lage neighborhood of Chicago. organized drives for meaningful causes like “For me growing up, that was my crutch, “Toys for Tots” and collected warm clothes you know? Like that’s what got me through for donations to the homeless and people in everything was just that. I would at 11:11 ev- need. ery night, I would wish that something good Future Community Get Down events will would happen to my mom, to my brother, carry the same positive, accepting energy that to my sister, to myself, to my family… That makes the house music community a special we could just make it through the year or place. All are encouraged to come out to these through the day in general. You know, to pay Arcade games at Replay Arcade Bar in Lincoln Park events to celebrate friendship and prosperity our rent, eat food, and have clothes and stuff.” through music, food, games and fun. The 5th It was only fit that Eleven11 would be Vil- “I embraced that number and I just real- me cause it was like literally growing up every Community Get Down will take place on legas’s name as an artist. ly wanted it to be something that was part of single year, every single day I would literally April 19, 2020. The 82: A reading by Julie Iromuanya Amina Murati Writer by the creative writing minor, and we have from people she knows and meets. “One of deals with business. The more you write, you local or Chicago writers come to the event,” the things that I try to do with my writing, in begin to create a practice space for yourself. Novelist Julie Iromuanya read some of her Goldblatt told The Independent. The event is particular, is to think about questions that I Even for those who have busy lives. It is im- work during the “82” event that took place on named after the CTA’s Kimball bus line that have about the world,” she said. She includ- portant to carve out some time and space to Thurs., Feb. 20 in the Pedroso Center. Coor- many students at NEIU take to school. ed how her knowledge of creative writing is write and practice.” dinator Amanda Goldblatt explained how the Iromuanya was an English professor at helpful during the beginning stages of her Iromuanya also champions perseverance: “82” has events similar to this reading two NEIU from 2012 to 2015 and is currently at writing process: “Creative writing is a way “You’re going to face all types of rejection, or three times a semester, where writers are the University of Chicago teaching creative to seek answers to my questions. I did this as and people who are not the right readers for invited to share their work. “The ‘82’ is run writing and African literature. The Coffee a scholar too, where I wrote a paper and my the work. You’ve got to be able to believe in House Press published Iromuanya’s “Mr. and thesis, and I used creative writing as a way to yourself enough to keep working and finish- Mrs. Doctor” in 2015. The book was “a finalist dramatize my answers to those questions.” ing your piece. I’ve rewritten “Mr. and Mrs. for the PEN/Faulkner Award, the PEN/Rob- In regards to her writing process, Doctor “so many times.” ert W. Bingham Prize for debut fiction, the Iromuanya uses each step to put as much in- In her writing, Iromuanya wishes to in- Etisalat Prize for literature (now nine mobile formation about the characters she is writing clude some “pearls of wisdom” for her read- prizes for literature) and the National Book about on the page. “During my first draft, I’m ers: “One of the things I try to do as much as Critics Circle John Leonard Prize for debut just writing and getting the story out. As a I can, and this gets me in trouble as a writer, fiction,” explained Goldblatt as she intro- writer you enter a dream space, where you are is to expose humans in all of their compli- duced Iromuanya. in the world of your characters and following cations, and all of their elements of vulner- The book is about Ifi and Job, a Nigeri- them, trying to keep up with them.” She be- ability and fault or shame.” Iromuanya added an couple who have an arranged marriage. gins to take a different approach during her how she does this to show readers true sto- While living in Nebraska, Ifi finds out that Job revision process: “Revision is then when you ries, rather than hiding the truth: “I do think lied to her about being a doctor. While the go back and try to carve out the story with that there is a desire to make characters or to story itself is great, the book also illustrates the material that you have, like a sculptor. You tell stories about people in their best light. I Nigerian culture. During the event, Iromuan- have to shape the material and you begin to don’t think that those are true stories because ya read an excerpt from her published book think about things like the plot, the character I think that we are as complicated as human and another book that she is currently work- development, all of those kinds of things.” beings.” ing on. Iromuanya also included advice that she Iromuanya concluded the reading by Amina Murati Regarding both her writing and her pro- has for writers and students: “The primary explaining how everyone should be able to cess of discovering inspiration, Iromuanya thing is to write. We focus on the publishing connect to some story or work, and she hopes Iromuanya is a novelist and former English professor at NEIU. said that she pulls from stories that she hears and the authoring part of it, which I think that her writing does the same for people. FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | SPORTS 15 Black Athlete Spotlight: The legend of Willie O’Ree Earnest Beeson the minors, jealously guarding his secret. Writer After adapting to his vision loss, O’Ree went on to score 30 goals before turning Losing your right eye is a small price to professional. O’Ree made history on Jan. pay to become a legend. 18, 1958, when he debuted with the Boston Harry and Rosebud O’Ree gave birth to Bruins. William Eldon “Willie” O’Ree, in Fredericton, As the first African-American in the New Brunswick, Canada on Oct.15, 1935. NHL, racism plagued his entire career. While most remember O’Ree -- the first black Opposing fans jeered O’Ree whenever the man to appear in the NHL -- as a pioneer and Bruins played on the road, leveling him with a legend, he prefers the title of ‘hockey play- racial slurs and taunts. “Besides being black er.’ O’Ree and his family were accustomed and besides being blind, I was faced with four to hardship; his grandparents originally fled other things — racism, prejudice, bigotry and to Canada via the Underground Railroad to ignorance,” said O’Ree. escape slavery, his parents supported a family O’Ree condemns Chicago fans for being of 15, his brothers career was cut short due especially rough on him. O’Ree stated, “The to injuries and he would eventually change fans would yell, ‘Go back to the South,’ and, the world of hockey despite bigotry and, of ‘How come you’re not picking cotton?’ Things course, his own injuries. like that. It didn’t bother me. Hell, I’d been O’Ree began playing organized hockey called names most of my life. I just wanted to at the age of five. By the age of 14, he began be a hockey player, and if they couldn’t accept playing with his older brother. A year later, that fact, that was their problem, not mine.” he was playing for the Fredericton Falcons There was a memorable incident in Chi- in the New Brunswick Amateur Hockey As- cago Stadium where a Blackhawks player sociation. Over the next three years, O’Ree taunted him with racial remarks and knocked advanced through the Fredericton system, out two of his teeth. O’Ree got up from the ice Flickr posted by @mark6mauno playing for the Merchants, Capitals and to fight the offender, almost initiating a riot. Junior Capitals. While playing for the Cap- Police escorted O’Ree from the building for Willie O’Ree had a hockey career that spanned from 1957 to 1979. He is now 84 itals, O’Ree participated in the Allan Cup his safety. years old and has since been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in Canada. Tournament, where he scored seven goals in During an interview following an in- seven games. At 19 years old, O’Ree moved cident in February of 2018 that saw racist to Quebec and played the 1954 season with jeering directed at Washington Capitals right the Quebec Frontenacs of the Quebec Junior wing Devante Smith-Pelly, O’Ree stated, “I Hockey League (QJHL), where he scored 44 just say we haven’t really come that far, there’s points (27 goals,17 assists) in 43 games. still racism in the league. There’s racism in the In his quest to prove that “hockey is for junior leagues, the midgets and the smaller everyone,” O’Ree faced one of the greatest leagues. I guess we’ll just have to keep work- physical challenges of his life. While playing ing at it.” for the Kitchener Canucks of the Ontario O’ree is often credited as the “Jackie Rob- Hockey Association, O’Ree was struck by a inson of Hockey,” the fastest man on the ice deflected slapshot that shattered his retina, and the king of the near-miss (a reference to broke his nose and fractured his cheekbone. the many goals he almost scored). But his O’Ree was forced to undergo surgery to greatest contribution would come off the ice. repair injuries his doctors considered ca- In 1998, O’Ree joined the NHL again, this reer-ending. time as the Director of Youth Development O’Ree lost 95% of the vision in his right and hockey ambassador for NHL Diversity. eye that day. According to the National Hock- In this role, he would continue to encourage ey League’s bylaws, players were ineligible to children to go after their dreams. According play if they were blind in either eye. O’Ree to O’Ree, success is a choice predicated on was devastated. To protect his dream of play- dedication and perseverance. ing in the NHL, he decided to hide his injury. “If you think you can, you can. If you He would go on to play 21 seasons, mostly in think you can’t, you’re right.” 16 SPORTS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG Bulls fans chant 'Fire GarPax' on national television top-tier free agents since GarPax’ took con- from the Bulls’ front office. Matthew Rago trol. During the 2010 free agency period, the Entering the 2019-2020 season, the Bulls Editor In Chief Bulls infamously whiffed on LeBron James, harbored playoff aspirations. However, pow- [email protected] Chris Bosh and Chicago-born Dwayne Wade, er forward Lauri Markkanen, who was as- instead settling for a sign-and-trade deal that sumed to be on his way towards becoming Bulls fans chanted “Fire GarPax” on na- brought Carlos Boozer to the Windy City. a legitimate top-two scoring threat, suffered tional television on the first day of the NBA This offseason, the Bulls weren’t considered a startling regression, The former University All-Star weekend, a scathing rebuke against by any major free agents despite residing in of Arizona standout is averaging a career-low the efforts of Chicago Bulls’ Vice President of the third most populous city in America. 15.0 points per game (ppg), his lowest aver- Basketball Operations John Paxson and gen- The duo also fired former Coach of age since his rookie campaign. Otto Porter eral manager Gar Forman. Twitter posted by @BrettFox5 the Year recipient Tom Thibodeau, replac- Jr. appeared to be a shell of himself prior to The demonstration took place on a live A billboard on the corner of Lake and ing him with former Iowa State head coach spraining his left foot, an injury that has kept broadcast of ESPN’s First Take, which was Racine was crowdfunded by Bulls fans Fred Hoiberg. In three-and-a-half seasons, him sidelined since Nov. 6. filmed live at Chicago’s Navy Pier. Host Max during the summer of 2017. Hoiberg led the Bulls to a 115-155 record. Despite hosting the NBA All-Star Week- Kellerman asked Bulls’ shooting guard Zach Hoiberg has since returned to the college end, the Bulls went without an All-Star rep- Lavine whether he had confidence in GarPax’ harrowing sight for a regime rumored to be ranks to coach the Nebraska Cornhuskers. resentative for the third straight season. At ability to lead the franchise to title contention. on its way out. Under the leadership of For- Hoiberg was replaced with current head the All-Star break, the Bulls sat in 10th place Lavine responded by offering a vote of confi- man and Paxson, collectively known as Gar- coach Jim Boylen, who has been ineffective in in the top-heavy Eastern Conference with a dence, stating that he’s “with the team man” Pax, the Bulls have regressed into a caricature his role as head coach. After his third game as record of 19-36, good for a .345 winning per- before conceding that the fans might believe of a once-proud franchise. Though GarPax’ Bulls’ head coach--a 56-point loss to the Bos- centage. differently. Fans in attendance disagreed, re- draft history has been strong--the Bulls draft- ton Celtics, the largest home defeat in fran- Bulls fans have vocalized their displea- sponding with boos and “fire GarPax” chants. ed Derrick Rose (No. 1), Jimmy Butler (No. chise history--players infamously rejected sure on social media for the better part of five The discontentment grew so loud that 30), Joakim Noah (No. 9) and Luol Deng (No. Boylen’s hard-nosed practice stance, refusing years. Embarrassing team owner Jerry Re- it interrupted Lavine’s interview, prompting 7) during GarPax’ tenure--the duo’s record in to appear at practice the following morning. insdorf on national television, though, may moderator Molly Grim to gesture for the free agency has been underwhelming. Despite such displays, which social media finally push Paxson and Forman off what’s crowd to quiet down. A top-five valued franchise according to has described as ineptitude, the Bulls’ extend- been a surprisingly long pier. The restlessness of the Bulls faithful is a Forbes, the Bulls have been overlooked by ed Boylen’s contract, suggesting indifference FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | SPORTS 17 Bears reportedly interested in Carr Matthew Rago Editor In Chief were to move on from Carr ($21.5m cap hit Overtime host and former NFL quar- [email protected] vs $7.9 dead) they’d be interested.” terback Chris Simms describes Raiders’ Perhaps ominously for Trubisky, Mariota head coach Jon Gruden as a “quarter- A Thursday morning tweet by Las Ve- was replaced midseason by veteran quarter- back hoarder” who's never happy with gas Raiders Derek Carr set off a social me- back Ryan Tannehill, who led the Titans to quarterback play save for exceptional dia firestorm. The photo, which shows Carr the AFC Championship Game before falling circumstances. According to Simms, it’s embracing current Chicago Bears and former to the eventual Super Bowl champions, the difficult to get a read on Carr’s standing Raiders’ outside linebacker Khalil Mack, was Kansas City Chiefs. with Gruden. posted almost immediately after trade ru- Carr to the Bears makes a ton of sense. Finally, what would the Bears be mors surrounding Carr surfaced. While Carr isn’t elite, he is only 29 years old willing to forfeit in order to acquire The timing of Carr’s tweet is what makes with an incredibly strong arm, perfect to Carr? Is his production worth a sec- the photo so intriguing. With the NFL off- combat the inclement Chicago weather. Last ond-round pick for a team that has season less than a month away, rumors have season, he finished eighth in the NFL in total been grossly irresponsible with their been running rampant. But according to NFL passing yards (4,054) with a 70.4% comple- high-round picks? If not, could they insider Benjamin Allbright, the speculation tion percentage. Furthermore, he’s playing on acquire comparable quarterback play- holds weight. a team-friendly deal that runs until 2022. -Teddy Bridgewater, Andy Dalton and Allbright, who primarily covers the Den- However, there are still quite a few factors even Tom Brady have been linked to ver Broncos, said via Twitter that the Bears at work before Bears fans should consider the Bears this offseason--for less? The intend on providing Trubisky the chance to Carr a serious candidate to replace Trubisky. Bears would be remiss if they didn’t ex- reemerge as the franchise cornerstone. How- First, while the prevailing narrative con- plore cheaper routes absent of a defini- ever, similar to the situation Tennessee Titans’ tends that Trubisky was simply overmatched tive decision on Trubisky. quarterback Marcus Mariota found himself by the speed of the NFL, the Bears need to The Bears have been mired in in last season, the Bears intend to concurrent- assess which factors contributed to Trubisky’s quarterback purgatory for a majority ly explore quarterback options while moving regression. Lingering injuries, inadequate of their existence. While Carr might forward with Trubisky. protection and paltry production from the be the most expensive option from a Allbright tweeted, “Bears are quietly tight end position all cast doubt on whether compensation standpoint, perhaps the looking at QB options. Trubisky will still get the Bears’ front office and coaching staff posi- certainty of reliable quarterback play the shot to be the guy, but much like Titans/ tioned Trubisky to win. is seductive enough for the notorious- Erik Drost / Creative Commons Mariota last year, the leash is short. They'd Second, it’s unknown whether or not the ly trigger-happy Ryan Pace to make a Derek Carr currently plays for the Las Vegas prefer vet ready-to-play, options. If Raiders Raiders actually intend on moving Carr. PFT move. Raiders. NFL to revamp playoff format Matthew Rago on Wild Card Weekend. champion Kansas City Chiefs (12-4) in the Editor In Chief Under the proposed format, which first round while the Rams would have trav- [email protected] Schefter states could be formalized as soon eled to Green Bay to face the NFC North as next week, only one first-round bye would Champions (13-3). According to NFL Insider Adam Scheft- be available, awarded to the team with the Schefter reports that while other agen- er, the NFL is progressing toward finalizing best record in each conference. Players das are still being negotiated, such as a 17- a new collective bargaining agreement that would still be compensated during the bye game regular season, a consensus among would include major changes to the current week. owners exists in regards to altering the NFL’s playoff format. Besides the additional wild card teams, current playoff system, which has been in ef- Under the proposal, the playoff field the most notable changes to the current sys- fect for 30 years. would expand to 14 teams, adding one ad- tem are the two additional Wild Card Week- Though no vote came from Thursday’s ditional wild card team per conference. Cur- end games. continuation of CBA meetings, the agree- rently, the NFL postseason accommodates Had this rule been implemented last ment could be ratified as soon as the NFL 12 teams--four division winners and two season, the Los Angeles Rams (9-7) and the Draft Combine next week. Should the par- wild card teams per conference--affording Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8) would have each ties come to an agreement, the changes the top two divisions in each conference a made the playoffs. The Steelers would have could go into effect as soon as the 2020-2021 bye week as the remaining teams compete faced AFC West and eventual Super Bowl NFL regular season. 18 SPORTS | FEBRUARY 25, 2020 NEIUINDEPENDENT.ORG Greatest matches in Wrestlemania history - Part Two Matthew Rago lining each of Michaels’ shortcomings, claim- 14. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant (Wres- admit that watching this match 28 years after Editor In Chief ing that he wanted to plant the final seed of tlemania III) it took place won’t provide much excitement [email protected] doubt within Michaels’ mind. After defending Match Background: Prior to the buildup from a pure in-ring standpoint. his Wrestlemania main event berth at In Your to Wrestlemania III, Andre the Giant and Result and Aftermath: After the infa- House 6 against a bitter Owen Hart, the stage Hulk Hogan were presented as allies, even mous bodyslam that grounded Andre the was set for champion Bret Hart to square off claiming to be best of friends. During an Giant, Hogan executed his patented Leg Drop With WWE billing Elimination Cham- against Michaels in an Iron Man Contest for edition of Piper’s Pit in January of 1987, Hulk to earn the three count and retain his WWF ber as the final stop before Wrestlemania, it’s the WWF Championship. Hogan received recognition for his remark- championship. The two men would have a re- time to reminisce on the iconic moments and What Made The Match Great: After able accomplishments, finding himself the re- match at “The Main Event ‘’ on NBC on Feb.5, legendary contests that helped morph Wres- years of relying on over-the-top gimmickry cipient of a trophy for his three-year reign as 1988, a match which drew a record 33 million tlemania into the must-see spectacle it has and formidable physiques to headline their WWF Champion, to which Andre the Giant viewers. Andre the Giant would proceed to become today. grandest pay-per-view, WWE opted to hand came out to congratulate his friend. end Hogan’s four-year reign as champion Compiling a subjective listing of the the reins to their two top performers in the The following week, also on Piper’s Pit, thanks to a perceived screwjob orchestrated greatest matches in Wrestlemania history most physically demanding Iron Man Match,, Andre the Giant received a much smaller tro- by referees Dave and Earl Hebnar. The feud is a trying task. Because of sheer amount much to the appreciation of its fan base. Fans phy for an undefeated streak which spanned would culminate at Wrestlemania IV during of fantastic, era-defining contests that have who followed the career trajectories of the 15 years, to which Hogan returned the con- the tournament to crown a new WWF Cham- two participants noted how similar their gratulatory message. pion, though both men were disqualified taken place at “The Granddaddy of Them paths had been up to that point, as each However, rather than fading into the after using a steel chair, an underwhelming All,” deserving candidates were omitted from men ascended through the tag team ranks, background of the segment, Hogan found conclusion to a rivalry that helped shape the our top 15. Such exclusions are not meant to excelled in the midcard and earned their himself the focal point of Piper’s follow up landscape of the WWE. operate as an indictment on the performance place among the elite in spite of their less- interview, much to the annoyance of Andre put forth by the participating superstars, but than-ideal size (relative to Vince McMahon’s the Giant, who responded by walking out 13. Randy Savage vs. The Ultimate Warrior; rather a testament to just how spectacular of standards). Though a bit long, the match itself of his own ceremony. Bobby Heenan, who Retirement Match (Wrestlemania VII) an event Wrestlemania has become. was a technical masterpiece, providing the in- had long been recruiting talent in an effort Match Background: During the latter half Hopefully, this list will allow readers to ring apex of one of the greatest personal and to thwart Hulkamania, revealed himself to of 1990, Randy Savage exhibited a unyielding fondly revisit their childhoods while also professional rivalries in WWE history. Fur- have taken up managerial duties for Andre, desire to regain the WWF Championship he celebrating the moments that had viewers thermore, the conclusion was one of the more challenging Hogan for his championship and lost at Wrestlemania V. Savage repeatedly gripping the edge of their seats during their brilliant finishes this writer has ever seen. claiming Hogan only befriended Andre to prodded then-champion the Ultimate War- Result and Aftermath: Hart, on the avoid defending his championship against the rior for a title shot, But Warrior continuously formative years. verge of victory, locked Michaels in a deep undefeated superstar. After Hogan refused to refused, classifying Savage as “unworthy.” To Now, without further ado, let’s take a look Sharpshooter during the waning moments accept Heenan’s taunts, Andre proceeded to the outrage of “The Macho Man” the number at part two of the greatest matches in Wrestle- of the contest. However, despite maintaining rip Hogan’s shirt from his body and tore his one contendership went to Sgt. Slaughter in- mania history. complete control during the dying embers of crucifix from around his neck, detonating stead, provoking Savage to take matters into the bout, Hart was unable to force the “Heart- their relationship. his own hands. At the 1991 Royal Rumble, 15. Bret Hart vs Shawn Michales: Iron Man break Kid” to submit before time expired, What Made The Match Great: The dra- Savage and valet Sensational Sherry inter- Match for WWF Championship (Wrestle- ending the match in what many perceived to ma, the suspense, the participation and the fered during Warrior’s championship contest mania XII) be a draw. Out came WWF President Gorilla “moment.” Make no bones about it, this match against Sgt. Slaughter, striking the champion Match Background: After a tumultuous Monsoon, demanding a winner be declared was not technically sound or particularly with a scepter and costing the Ultimate War- 1995 that saw Shawn Michaels tarnish his and initiating a sudden death rules overtime entertaining from an in-ring perspective. In rior his WWF Championship. Over the next reputation with both kayfabe and real-life period. Approximately one-and-a-half min- fact, outside of the pre-match staredown and few weeks, the feud rapidly escalated before setbacks -- Michaels failed to win the WWF utes into the overtime period, Michaels land- Hogan’s iconic bodyslam on Andre, hindsight boiling over when the Ultimate Warrior Championship at the previous year’s Wres- ed consecutive Sweet Chin Musics flush on exposes this match as for plodding, slow and challenged Savage to a retirement match at tlemania, was assaulted and suspended for Hart’s chin, incapacitating his opponent and very heavily reliant on strikes. Wrestlemania VII. a fight involving a U.S. Marine, forfeited his earning the “Heartbreak Kid” his first WWF By the time this dream match took place, What Made The Match Great: For its Intercontinental Championship and suffered Championship. Andre was far past his in-ring prime, suffer- time, the match was spectacular, though if a kayfabe concussion at the hands of Owen Michaels would hold onto the WWF ing from the same health issues that eventu- you watch it today, you may quickly find Hart -- 1996 was set up to be a vindictive year Championship until November of that year, ally contributed to his death. However, while yourself disenchanted by the dated in-ring for the transcendent superstar. As the 18th feuding with the likes of Diesel and the British the remaining matches on the list warrant mannerisms and awful theatrics employed entrant in the 1996 Royal Rumble, Michaels Bulldog before dropping the title to Sycho Sid inclusion through precise in-ring execution by the Ultimate Warrior. However, what this overcame staggering odds to win his second at Survivor Series 1996. However, this contest and excellent storytelling, this match is cel- match is best remembered for is the emotion consecutive Royal Rumble, last eliminating will always be remembered as the launching ebrated for solidifying Wrestlemania as the elicited by its conclusion. Diesel in a match that can be accurately de- pad that helped propel Shawn Michaels’ sto- must-see spectacle it has become today. scribed as “the land of the giants.” Bret Hart ried legacy to new, unforeseen heights. Nevertheless, we’d be remiss if we didn’t would fuel the redemption narrative by out- MATCHES/ page 19 FEBRUARY 25, 2020 | SPORTS 19

With a vacant title on its hands, MATCHES WWE announced a battle royale Continued from 18 would take place to determine the two competitors that would face Though the retirement stip- off in a Intercontinental Cham- ulation has since become diluted pionship match. The two final and--depending on the circum- competitors of the battle royale, stance--telegraphs predictability, Rick Martel and Razor Ramon, the stakes were high back in 1990, would compete at the Sept. 27, adding an iconic feel that was dif- 1993 Monday Night Raw for the ficult to capture in that era. The vacant championship, where after match itself was very entertain- an impressive Razor’s Edge, Razor ing, seeing Savage carry the Ul- Ramon was crowned champion. timate Warrior to the best match However, while Razor Ramon of the latter’s career. Additionally, was recognized as the official despite his status as a heel, fans champion, Shawn Michaels re- sympathized with Savage’s vul- turned from his real-life suspen- nerability as his contributions sion claiming that since he had were already recognized as some never actually been defeated for of the greatest to ever grace the the Intercontinental Champion- industry. ship, he remained the rightful However, what truly memo- champion. Both men began to rialized this match in the minds carry two indistinguishable title and hearts of fans was its role as KinkESizemore / CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) belts, each staking their claim as the culmination of the greatest Intercontinental Champion. It love story in WWE history. returned to the WWF as a color commenta- earning a long overdue victory over his elder was decided that the two cham- After losing the WWF Championship to tor, “marrying” Miss Elizabeth on-air at Sum- sibling. pions would settle their dispute at Wrestle- Hogan at Wrestlemania V, Savage would re- merslam 1991. By the following year, Savage Result and Aftermath: Owen pinned mania X in the second ever WWE ladder bound by winning the King of the Ring tour- returned as an in-ring performer, competing Bret after countering a sunset roll-up into a match (the first being contested between nament and dumping the services of his valet against Ric Flair for the WWF Championship pin of his own. After Bret’s victory over Yo- Hart and Michaels in a forgettable match at (and real-life wife) Miss Elizabeth in favor of at Wrestlemania VIII. kozuna for the WWF Championship in the Wrestling Challenge). “Sensational” Sherri Martel. After suffering main event of Wrestlemania X, Owen and What Made The Match Great:Who can defeat following consecutive leaping shoulder 12. Owen Hart vs Bret Hart (Wrestlemania X) Bret continued their feud for the remainder forget the iconic image of Michaels’ body blocks, Savage lay dejected and alone in the Match Background: The feud between of the year, seeing their immediate family’s splash onto Razor Ramon from atop the lad- middle of the ring as “Sensational” Sherri Owen and Bret Hart began at Survivor Se- allegiance divided between the two. Owen der? Second, innovation engraved this contest looked on in disgust. However, rather than ries 1993, when Bret Hart, hobbled from a Hart further solidified his credibility by earn- in the hearts of fans, as it was the first ladder supporting her client, Sherri opted to vicious- sustained injury, caused Owen to lose his ing the honor of 1994 King of the Ring, but match to be featured on a pay-per-view card. ly assault a vulnerable Savage with kicks and balance and focus, subsequently contributing would find himself unable to dethrone his Fans quite literally had no idea where to set strikes, prompting Elizabeth, who had been to Owen’s elimination from the match. A con- brother as WWF Champion in a Steel Cage their expectations for such a contest, allowing sporadically shown throughout the match as frontation ensued, seeing Owen persistently Match at Summerslam. The rivalry would each spot to be received with awe. An in- an onlooker, to jump the barricade and make demand a match with Bret before their rec- come full circle at Survivor Series 1994, when spired Michaels and Razor Ramon put on one her way to the ring. Elizabeth proceeded onciliation prior to the 1994 Royal Rumble. Bret Hart, embroiled in a championship sub- of the greatest performances of their storied, to grab Sherri by the hair and deposit her However, a similar scenario unfolded, as an- mission contest against Bob Backlund, found Hall Of Fame careers, and though Razor Ra- through the middle ropes before attempting other Bret injury caused the referee to award himself trapped in the Crossface Chicken- mon was credited with the victory, each man to help the battered Savage to his feet, only to the match to the Quebecers, provoking Owen wing. Owen Hart, feigning concern for his solidified his place among the upper echelon have her attempts swatted away by a panicked to attack his brother in a fit of rage. brother, coerced their mother into throwing of WWE superstars. and disoriented Macho Man. What Made The Match Great: Univer- the towel on Bret’s behalf, costing him both Result and Aftermath: After Shawn Mi- Tears streaming from her eyes, Elizabeth sally regarded as the greatest opening contest the match and his Heavyweight Champion- chaels found his right foot bound between allowed Savage to regain his bearings. Initial- in Wrestlemania history, the Hart Brothers ship. the two top ropes, Razor Ramon was able to ly, he had wrongly identified her as his attack- treated us to a display of both excellent chem- ascend the ladder unobstructed to retrieve er, eyeing her questioningly before spotting istry and technical prowess. Each wrestler 11. Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon; the two Intercontinental Championship Sherri outside the ring screaming at him with showcased an array of technical and stiff ma- Intercontinental Championship Ladder belts. A couple of weeks after the infamous fury and malice. After realizing Elizabeth neuvers, complemented by Owen’s expert heel Match (Wrestlemania X) contest, Razor Ramon would lose his Inter- had come to his aid rather than harming tactics, which involved him celebrating each Match Background: After finding himself continental Championship to Diesel on the him, Savage embraced Elizabeth and raised small accomplishment as if he had just won in a troubling predicament with the WWE April 13th edition of WWF Superstars with her atop his shoulder, much to the delight of a presidential election. Additionally, the feud front office, then-WWE Intercontinental assistance from Michaels. The victory would the openly weeping attendees and viewers at began via one of the great, relatable themes: Champion Shawn Michaels would be forced spearhead a major push for Diesel, which saw home. jealousy toward a figure unfairly perceived as to vacate his title under storyline citation for him obtain the WWF Triple Crown within a Result and Aftermath: Following con- superior. However, to the pleasant surprise of violating the championship “30 Day Policy,” calendar year. many, Owen received his moment of triumph which states that without a proper title de- secutive flying shoulder blocks, The Ultimate Part three of our four-part series will be after countering Bret’s roll-up attempt into an fense within a 30 day time frame, he would no Warrior defeated Randy Savage via pinfall, available in the next edition of the NEIU inescapable pinning predicament of his own, longer be recognized as the official champion. forcing his retirement. However, Savage soon Independent.