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Current (2010s) Student Newspapers

1-29-2018

Current, January 29, 2018

University of Missouri-St. Louis

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This Newspaper is brought to you for free and open access by the Student Newspapers at IRL @ UMSL. It has been accepted for inclusion in Current (2010s) by an authorized administrator of IRL @ UMSL. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Vol. 51 Issue 1551 January 29, 2018 TheGroundhog DayCurrent Feb. 2 UMSL’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS New Welcome Center Manager in MSC Brings Fresh Ideas to Campus Joseph Salamon berant as ever. News Editor Filled with a desire to make an immediate and lasting impact in her here is a new smiling face be- new role, Baker looks to two import- Thind the manager’s desk at the ant upcoming events and projects University of Missouri-St. Louis’ for the Welcome Center—the first Welcome Center. Lisa Baker has as- of which being UMSL Day. sumed the role of manager of tours UMSL Day is an event held and special events for the Welcome once a semester at which prospec- Center. tive students visit campus to get a Earlier this month, Baker took feel for what life is like if they were on her new role at UMSL, a position to choose to go to school here. Bak- long held by her predecessor, Yolan- er views the event as a springboard da Weathersby. A St. Louis native for the Welcome Center’s increased and UMSL graduate herself, Baker role in campus life. is enthusiastic about her new title “This first UMSL Day is going and the responsibilities it entails. to be a bit of a learning experience Baker, who moved across the for me, but I think what we’ll do is river from Illinois to North County look at how it goes and then see how in third grade, has spent much of her [the Welcome Center] can be more life familiarizing herself with UMSL involved with other campus-wide and the community surrounding the events,” Baker stated. university. CURRENT SALAMON/THE JOSEPH With a staff of twelve under- Baker came to UMSL as an un- Lisa Baker joins the Welcome Center staff in January. She is an UMSL graduate herself. graduate and one graduate student dergraduate student in 2003 to thereafter. tention specialist for the College of After spending some time away tour guides, the Welcome Center pursue a bachelor’s degree in psy- Though she is just beginning Education. Upon graduation, Baker from her alma mater working with is often the first impression that chology. She then remained at to get used to her new role at the then transitioned into an academ- her husband at his exterior mod- prospective students have of what UMSL to begin her graduate stud- Welcome Center, Baker started her ic advising role with the College of eling company, Baker is back at life at UMSL is like. As a former ies in higher education immediately professional career at UMSL as a re- Arts and Sciences. UMSL, full of fresh ideas and exu- Continued on page 3 UMSL’s Premier Dining and Study Center Renovated and Open January 29 Joseph Salamon pression on visitors. News Editor Due to budgetary restrictions, renovations halted and the univer- or the first time ever, the Nosh, sity spent the next few years setting Fthe student dining area on the little bits of money aside until the first floor of the Millennium Student project started back up in March of Center, underwent renovations. Stu- 2017 and was officially greenlit in dents, faculty, and staff alike now November of the same year. have greater and more comfortable Miriam Roccia, assistant dean seating options. of students for Campus Life, played Since the Millennium Student a major role in the renovation proj- Center opened its doors in 2000, ect. She noticed that the seating ar- the Nosh has served as a main gath- rangements were often restrictive ering place for anyone at UMSL who to UMSL’s wide variety of students wants to eat lunch, finish home- who spend time on the first floor of work, or simply gather with friends. the MSC. The renovations to the space, which “Folks are a little apprehensive have been over half a decade in the to sit with people they don’t know,” making, accommodate a greater di- Roccia stated. “We needed a bet- versity of groups. ter mix of furniture that was more UMSL began working on the intentional and balances the line renovation project four years ago, of groups that wanted a big space with assistance from architect Bob with individuals who wanted to be Winters and the Ottolino Winters alone.” Huebner firm. The main goal of The Student Center acts as a the project was to create a space in gathering space for all of campus, as which all students would feel com- RIDDLER/THE CURRENT KAT students from all different academic fortable while also making an im- The booths fit around the numerous columns in the Nosh area of the MSC, utilizing more of the space. Continued on page 3 What’s Inside:

Game Jam pg. 4 Elbow Returns, pg. 5 Basketball, pg. 6 Walmart, pg. 7 2 January 29, 2018 CURRENT STAFF

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Michael Plumb Managing Editor Kat Riddler News Editor Joseph Salamon Features Editor Now hiring! Sports Editor Roderick Wilbon A&E Editor Chris Zuver Opinions Editor Kyle Mannisi Copy Editors Alex Neupert Daniel Brown-Schnurr Staff Writers Dustin Steinhoff Harold Crawford Mike A. Bryan

Staff Photographer OPEN DESIGN Production Editor OPEN Production Assistant Sha Lai Photo Editor OPEN Currently Involved Column Web Editor OPEN his week in the Office of Stu- • Join Associated Black Colle- good news–UMSL Campus Life is SABC portal on TritonSync to stay Multimedia Editor Tdent Involvement at the Uni- gians and the Office of Student In- hiring! Campus Life is hosting sev- updated on the policies, procedures, Roderick Wilbon versity of Missouri-St. Louis: volvement as we celebrate the start en informational sessions through- and deadlines to request a budget Cartoonist/Artists · Join University Program Board of Black History Month. There will out February; please join us as we for your organization next semes- Mike Diliberto (UPB) for Wellness Wednesday: be soul food, music, and a chance to overview the application process ter. For more information, please Face Masks on January 31 from 12 learn about all the great events hap- and answer any questions you may contact SABC Chair Ben Branco at BUSINESS to 3 p.m. in the Millennium Student pening at UMSL to recognize and have. For more information, includ- [email protected]. Business Manager OPEN Center Quarters near the Nosh. The celebrate black history. The kick-off ing details on the informational ses- The Office of Student Involve- Advertising Director first two weeks of the semester have will take place on February 1, from sions, visit campuslifejobs.umsl.edu. ment can be contacted at 314-516- Michael Plumb flown by. Do you feel like you could 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the third floor • Attention Student Organization 5291 or studentinvolvement@umsl. Ad Representatives use some self-care to recover? Join of the MSC. Treasurers: the request process for edu. Now hiring! UPB for do-it-yourself face masks! • Are you looking for a job? Inter- Fall 2018 budgets is just around the Distribution Manager ested in working on campus? Well, corner. Be sure you have joined the Chris Zuver Social Media Team OPEN Archivist OPEN

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MON 34 TUE 41 WED 56 THU 37 FRI 32 SAT 42 SUN 46 23 32 35 16 25 30 23 January 29, 2018 news 3 UMSL’s Millennium Student Center Furniture Renovations Installed Continued from page 1 could have a major impact on stu- backgrounds pass through on a daily dent life. basis. Many of those students stop at “There’s definitely a lot of pur- The Nosh. pose to what we choose to renovate Roccia realized the importance and how we do it,” Roccia stated. and impact that the Nosh has on “Feedback we’ve already gotten students, and demonstrated that by from students has been really posi- asking many student staff members tive. Things like this can be commu- for their opinions on what furniture nity changing.” would make the beloved gathering Other upgrades to the Nosh in- place more attractive and modern. clude new furniture in the Quarters The committee overseeing the space that is more conducive to its project wanted to recognize and programming functionality. Roccia reward students who wanted to sit and the committee also decided to alone. “We wanted to make sure add blue paint to the ceiling as a nod they weren’t backed in a corner, but to the aluminum facing on the out- rather got the best view,” Roccia side of the building. stated. With that in mind, the ren- The renovation project cost ovated space will feature new bar- $275,000, with $125,000 paid for by height tables along the windows the university’s contract agreement looking out across the field to the with the food service company So-

North Campus pond. dexo, and the remaining $150,000 CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/THE Cushioned booth seating curved paid for by UMSL. The Nosh renovations included electrical outlets installed in the pillars so that students can charge laptops and phones. around the wide pillars is another Roccia sees the cost as an invest- new feature students will be able to ment in the future of life at UMSL, enjoy in the Nosh. The committee from current to prospective stu- also moved to have electrical out- dents. “This is all really important UMSL's New Welcome lets installed in the pillars so that because it’s a space that students students can charge their laptops travel every day, and where prospec- or phones in a more centralized tive students visit. They may not get Center Manager Lisa Baker location. the full classroom experience, but By utilizing the pillars that had they certainly get to see the Nosh.” Continued from page 1 come Center office. Not without a sense of humor, previously only served a structural The Nosh is expected to reopen UMSL student, Baker is well aware Thinking of adding more tour Baker jokes that the renaming of purpose to the building, Roccia sees to students on January 29. of this and hopes to use UMSL Day guides to accommodate the influx the old student lounge area would a seemingly innocuous change that as an opportunity to show off the of incoming students, Baker views be her first “major task” as new Wel- school that she came to know and an expansion from the already tight come Center manager. love. Welcome Center space as almost a Amidst all the changes and new “We all know it’s a great place necessity. tasks that come along with taking UMSL on 50 Best so we want to show other people “We need…to make it nice and on a new position with unfamiliar how great we are. It’s just a really clean, because right now it’s really responsibilities, Baker is focused neat way for students to get a feel visible for people walking by. We on actively making an impact in Online Degrees for what UMSL is.” just want it to look more polished, the Welcome Center and at UMSL, Baker is also excited about re- more professional, really warm for wanting to make UMSL’s tour pro- purposing the former Whole U people to come in and get a good gram a “premier tour program in the List Online space across the second floor MSC sense for what UMSL is,” she said. country.” hallway as an extension of the Wel- Thanks Kat Riddler practical knowledge but also train- Managing Editor ing in the theories, assumptions, values, and processes of the sys- he University of Missou- tem of justice.” The website feature Tri-St. Louis’s Department of continued, “Many pre-law students Criminology and Criminal Justice choose criminology and criminal has been named by College Choice justice as an undergraduate major, website as eighth nationally on their and the program offers an intern- 50 Best Online Criminal Justice ship program for college credit.” Degrees. Department Chair Finn Es- The website took several cri- bensen told UMSL Daily, “We are teria into account in their ranking pleased that our efforts to provide of colleges. The website said they a high-quality undergraduate ed- were looking at the best schools in ucational experience for our stu- the country measured by reputation dents are also recognized. The and return on investment as well as online courses are taught by a com- Kat Riddler tion between an UMSL student and turned in to UMSL PD from the So- cost. UMSL scored an 88.97 and had bination of our regular full-time Managing Editor an acquaintance at Mansion Hill. At cial Science Building at 11 p.m. an average net price of $8,774. faculty and part-time faculty, who 8:32 p.m., a driver’s license was left January 24: A delayed report The website noted that UMSL are recruited from criminal justice he following is a series of dai- at Oak Hall and turned in to UMSL was filed by an UMSL faculty mem- “enjoys a number of strategic part- agencies and are thus able to share Tly crime and incident reports PD. The owner was notified. ber reporting their parked car was nerships with public agencies that their ‘real-world’ experiences with issued by the University of Missou- January 22: At 8:30 a.m., UMSL struck and damaged on January 23 form an integral part of helping students.” ri- St. Louis Police Department be- PD assisted while personal items between 9:15 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. on students arrive at a career decision. The Department of Criminology tween January 19 and 25. were removed from an office in Ex- Lot R. At 2:13 p.m., UMSL PD ar- Stated outcomes of the program in- and Criminal Justice offers training January 19: No incidents to press Scripts Hall. At 10:50 a.m., an rested two juveniles suspected of clude the ability to develop critical for undergraduate for degrees in the report. auto accident between two vehicles breaking into parked vehicles in the thinking skills through the applica- criminal justice field, corrections January 20: A student was occurred on West Drive near Lucas Millennium North garage, Lot SS, tion of criminological theory and counseling, juvenile justice, proba- transported to the hospital via am- Drive. No injuries and minor dam- and South Campus parking garage social science research methods, de- tion and parole, victim advocacy, bulance after expressing suicid- age occurred. at 2:13 p.m. Juveniles were trans- velop fundamental understanding and law enforcement. al thoughts in the South Campus January 23: An UMSL student ported to the St. Louis County Ju- of interdisciplinary underpinnings parking garage at 1:04 a.m. At 3:52 was transported to the hospital via venile Detention Center. At 10:49 of criminology and criminal jus- a.m. a burglar alarm went off at the ambulance due to an issue with p.m., an UMSL student reported tice issues and policies, and acquire chancellor’s residence. UMSL PD medication at 12:30 a.m. from Oak their lost wallet was turned in to a knowledge about the structure and checked the residence and all was Hall. At 1:30 a.m., UMSL PD re- computer lab and was missing sixty functioning of the fundamental in- in order. At 4:20 p.m. a visitor to sponded to a burglar alarm appar- dollars cash. stitutions that are part of criminal campus was transported to the hos- ently set off by wind at 8224 Natural January 25: UMSL PD and Resi- justice systems.” pital via ambulance after a fall in the Bridge (Sigma Pi house). At 11:35 dence Life staff referred a student to The website stated, “The curric- Recreation and Wellness Center. At a.m., UMSL PD responded to a bur- counseling services after experienc- ulum is interdisciplinary in nature 10:18 p.m., UMSL PD and residence glar alarm set off by maintenance ing anxiety at 1:30 a.m. in Oak Hall. and includes coursework in crim- life staff responded to a smell of crew at 8300 Natural Bridge (Del- At 5:33 p.m., An UMSL staff member inology, social science, law, public marijuana in Oak Hall. ta Zeta house). A found driver’s li- reported a door appeared tampered administration, and corrections. January 21: At 5:45 p.m., UMSL cense was turned in to UMSL PD at with in Provincial House.

It provides students not only with COURTESY OF COLLEGE CHOICE PD responded to a verbal alterca- 10 p.m. A found wedding band was 4 features January 29, 2018 Local Coders and Creatives Flock to UMSL for the St. Louis Global Game Jam Dustin Steinhoff and sometimes causing things to get Staff Writer overlooked. Jacob Taylor, an UMSL alumni that majored in Computer oders, artists, video game Science, recalls an oversight that Cdesigners, and video game en- occurred due to late-night coding. thusiasts from around the St. Louis “We were creating code to area gathered at the University of shoot projectiles and suddenly it Missouri-St. Louis last weekend for was spawning thousands of these the Global Game Jam, an event that projectiles and crashing the Unity challenges professionals, hobbyists editor,” Taylor explained. “We had and newcomers alike to come to- not set some things up correctly to gether and create a working game destroy the projectiles once they over the course of a single weekend. collided.” The 2018 St. Louis Global Game While the Game Jam’s time lim- Jam ran from January 26 to January itation can bring some stress, some 28 and took place on the third floor participants find it to be a motiva- of the Millennium Student Center. tor to finish their game on time and The Century Rooms were open for make sure the scope of the game the duration of the weekend and they want to make is doable in the participants were allowed to leave time frame that is given. or stay for as long as they pleased “The time restraint is really MICHAEL PLUMB/THE CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/THE over the course of 48 hours. UMSL Information Systems Global Game Jam is 48 hours of creating digital and non-digital games. There were over 260 good for trying new things, but forc- In order to encourage creativi- participants of all ages. ing limited scope,” Maynard said. ty, each Game Jam has a theme that theme inspired a wide variety of of professionals called Jokes Too Their game focused on a satellite “When I am working on my own the participants must incorporate unique games. Far. The members of Jokes Too Far sending transmissions from one games outside of here, scope is a big into their games. The theme for One of the groups participating participate in Global Game Jams to point to another, but also imple- problem. I never start out wanting this event was “transmission.” This in the event was a six-person team have fun and challenge themselves. mented music into the gameplay to to make ‘Final Fantasy,’ but some- create a more dynamic experience. how it always gets to that point. The “Every time you send a trans- time limit is really helpful to main- mission, it adds a track to the music tain focus.” that is currently playing,” explains Many participants took the Mark Hall, a member of Jokes Too Game Jam as a chance to learn more Far. “The more transmissions you about programs and gain experience send, the more fleshed out the mu- working out of their comfort zones. sic gets.” “[The Game Jam] is a good way Bryan Maynard and Sarah Blan- to challenge yourself as a develop- kenship created a game that May- er, pick up new skills as an artist, or nard describes as, “a creepy pick-up make music,” Hall said. game.” The game centers around In addition to the technical collecting lettered cubes spelling skills being put to use and learned, out messages that someone is trying the Game Jam can also teach use- to transmit to the player, with the ful skills like communication and initial message as a cryptic “HELP.” organization. While the majority of games “This is an opportunity to work made at the event are digital, partici- with people you do not know and to pants are also able to create physical work towards a goal,” Gandy said. games consisting of boards or cards. “With all of these events, you can Alexius Gandy, graduate, manage- learn and build upon your academ- ment information systems, has been ic standing by participating and by MICHAEL PLUMB/THE CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/THE attending the Game Jam since 2015. fully being present in the event. We Team T6 is worked on a blockchain based playing card game called CryptoRocks. CryptoRocks makes use of its own unique ERC20 This year, Gandy brought her niece will all get better and learn through based token called RockCoin, which allows players to interactively collect, battle, and trade their digital assets, which in this to participate in the event. Together, this event.” scenario are collectable pet rocks with varying attributes. they created a matching card game On Sunday afternoon, the games called Mission Match. were submitted and, as a weekend of With the Game Jam’s limited hard work, game-breaking bugs, and timeframe, the creators are always aching fingers ended, all the partic- racing the clock, trying to get their ipants can sit back and appreciate game to a playable state before the their finished products. event ends, presenting challenges MICHAEL PLUMB/THE CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/THE MICHAEL PLUMB/THE CURRENT MICHAEL PLUMB/THE Teams spread throughout the Millennium Stduent Center during the event. Many participants brought their own computers and other things to use. Wizard World St. Louis is Around the Corner Roderick M. Wilbon 4 at America’s Center. Most pro- Emeritus), Lucy Davis (“Wonder Woman”), a paid adult. Sports Editor gramming is included as part of the John Barrowman (“Torchwood,” group session with the Lord of the World-famous Wizard World standard event admission and is in “Doctor Who”), Sebastian Stan Rings trio of Sean Bean, Sean Astin Comic Con Adult Costume Con- nime, video games, cosplayers, addition to the live entertainment (“The Vampire Diaries”), Bonnie and Billy Boyd. test is Saturday at 7 p.m. and Kids Aand comics creator sessions, options (dancing, music, etc.) all Wright (“Harry Potter” franchise), Kids programming is for all Costume Contests on Saturday and adult and kids costume contests and weekend. You do not want to miss James Frain (“Gotham”), James three days, including story time, Sunday at 2 p.m. Cosplay Work- more highlight the programming this years’ entertainment. Marsters (“Buffy the Vampire Slay- face painting, puppet shows, dance shops (Cosplay Photography And offerings at Wizard World Comic Q&A sessions with standout er”), Michael Rosenbaum ("Small- parties, magic, learn to draw. Kids 10 Posing, Sculpting, Foam Building, Con St. Louis, February 2 through celebrities Stan Lee (Marvel CEO ville," "The Justice League") and and under are free every day with continued on page 8 January 29, 2018 arts & entertainment 5 Alternative British band, Elbow, Returns with “Little Fictions” Mike A. Bryan Prize. The first track on the newest Staff Writer album, “Little Fictions,” “Magnifi- cent,” is an ode to love and beauty, here is a somewhat unknown and is extremely catchy. “All Disco,” TBritish alternative/prog-rock “Little Fictions,” and “K2” are also band called Elbow, who have been standout tracks, but there isn’t a bad producing incredible modern rock song on the whole album. ballads and anthems since the The music is pretty and sonical- 1990’s. ly inviting, creating a lush sound- Last year, they put out their scape with songs about love and seventh album, “Little Fictions,” other emotional topics. The use of that should definitely make it into strings, horns, and keys, along with your heavy rotation if you like U2, the guitar, bass, and drums produc- REM, Interpol, Radiohead, Muse, es full, layered music that is easy or Genesis (especially Peter Gabri- to listen to and vibe out. They are el); Coldplay is along the same lines, one of those bands that have their but wishes they were as musically own unique but consistent sound, talented as Elbow. Their music has meaning if you like one album, you been featured on TV and in movies, will most likely dig the others. This with a track serving as the theme is due, on the more recent, popular music for the BBC’s coverage of the albums, to the constant presence of London Olympics in 2010; they also the main keyboardist Craig Potter as performed two songs live for the OF THE SUN COURTESY producer. closing ceremonies. British band Elbow. Elbow self-describes their music as prog without the solos. If you like any of the afore- Not only is Elbow prolific, pro- video game “Call of Duty: Black Ops music is subtle, but emotional and the orchestrated music. It has only mentioned bands, you will fall in ducing seven studio albums, but 2.” moving, most songs having a sing- been in the past decade that Elbow love with Elbow. Just because you they have also contributed various Elbow self-describes their mu- along quality, with catchy choruses has come into mainstream populari- missed out on them for the past theme songs and covers for other sic as “prog without the solos,” with and memorable hooks. Lead sing- ty, with their past two albums reach- twenty years does not mean you compilations and projects, includ- rich orchestration filling out their er Guy Garvey’s voice has a theat- ing number one on the UK charts, cannot enjoy them now, so check ing the theme song for the popular alternative, modern rock sound. The rical quality that lends itself well to even garnering them a Mercury them out. New Tune-Yards' LP is Half of a Good Album Chris Zuver sings in the direct middle of the re- A&E Editor cord: “I can feel you creep into my private life.” n January 19, experimental The second half starts with Opop outfit Tune-Yards released “Look at Your Hands,” which floats their fourth full LP, “I Can Feel You over a funky ‘80s electro beat. It Creep Into My Private Life”. The mostly feels like an empty pop fill- twelve-track effort sees the duo er, that reeks of ‘80s nostalgia. I hes- continue down the path of synthe- itate to call it a bad song, but it’s not sizers and drum machines while a strong point for the overall record. incorporating elements of Haitian Track eight is “Home,” which is and Kenyan music. While it’s an the first laid-back song on the album enjoyable album, it comes across as and harkens back to older Tune- top-heavy, meaning that they come Yards with its minimalism. Despite out strong but begin to lose focus as some well-placed eerie harmonies, I the album wears on. can’t say much that is positive about Tune-Yards started as a project this one, other than it makes for nice in 2006 by Merrill Garbus. In 2008, background music. after releasing the first album un- “Hammer” is not a bad number, der the name, she relocated to Oak- but there is not much that stands out land where she teamed up with bass about it. It is repetitive and…well… player Nate Brenner. Since then, that’s about it. While lyrics aren’t each album has been unique and has OF CONSEQUENCEOFSOUND.NET COURTESY everything, it’s impossible to tell generated some minor hits such as Tune Yards in promo shoot for new album. what this one is about. The hook “Gangsta” and “Water Fountain”. performances to date. ing to face things instead of running touch/With the physical sensations “He won’t get off my back” is repeat- The music is generally considered Over the next couple of songs, away from the reality of the world in coursing through your body.” ed throughout the song with verses pop, though it also incorporates ele- we are given a prominent topic that this era. Thinking, if I could face the Next, we are greeted by “Colo- that discuss various metaphors that ments of African and Caribbean mu- flows through the album: politics. realities of climate change, of mas- nizer,” which is another introspec- don’t seem to have much to do with sic, soul, funk, EDM, and hip hop. “Coast to Coast” is partially about sive extinction, of white privilege tive song that focuses on identity each other. What is truly outstanding about Garbus’ time on the east coast in her and white fragility, then maybe I politics. In this chorus-less num- Next is the ethereal “Who Are the music, though, is Garbus’ sing- younger years and moving to the op- could guide listeners into also look- ber, Garbus sings in a humble deliv- You”. Again, this one comes across ing voice, which falls into a contral- posite side of the country, but there ing at things and not running away ery: “I use my white woman's voice as filler for the most part. I’m as- to range, often giving it a powerful is something deeper here. In the in all the ways that we do.” to interpret my travels with Afri- suming it’s about global warming and androgynous quality. chorus, she sings “Right, left, right, Track four, “Now As Then,” de- can men/I turn on my white wom- with lines like: “The science is cool/ All of these elements are in the left, fantasy fantasy” over a march- viates from the path of social-com- an's voice to contextualize acts of Twenty-three percent as a general new LP; in fact, all of them and then ing beat. In one verse, she sings: “I mentary and delves into the id. my white women friends/I cry my rule/Generations pretend/Shut our some. “Private Life” is Tune-Yard’s know your language, but I wish it Over a commanding mechanical white woman tears carving grooves eyes and hold our breath till it ends.” busiest in terms of instrumentation. were silence/The seeds are sown in beat, Garbus declares in the chorus: in my cheeks to display what I On the positive side, there is a nice Layers of piano, vocal harmonies, all the small acts of violence/I was “Don't trust me/That I won't take meant.” When it comes to politics on saxophone solo near the end played drum machines, bass, and keyboards just so tired, too tired to say a thing/ all the money and run”, entertaining this record, this track is an ugly sore. by collaborator Matt Nelson. cover most of the album. The prob- Kept my head down, eyes closed, the idea of giving in to selfishness It reeks of white guilt over “cultur- Two more to go. Track eleven is lem is that the album starts to unrav- and let freedom ring/We let free- over a powerful stack of harmonies. al appropriation.” You’ve been bor- “Private Life.” This song was clear- el as it moves from a strong opening dom ring/But whose freedom?” This one is pure musical fun while rowing elements of other people’s ly influenced by African music more toward less-focused numbers. In “ABC 123,” the lyrics come exhibiting a nihilistic catharsis. cultures for over a decade, Garbus, than any other song on the album. “Heart Attack” is a great start from a more personal perspective “Honesty” is a more meditative so why start feeling bad now? As for The song, according to Garbus, ref- that progresses from pianos to with topical utterances. While Gar- type of song. And I don’t mean “med- the instrumental, it’s basically just a erences two of her influences: Paul strings as it builds, with a small bus declares that “California’s burn- itative” in a relaxing manner. It’s house beat that serves as a means to Simon’s “Graceland” album and break in the middle where, over ing down,” she also states: “I ask bombastic in delivery, but trance-in- deliver the message. South African choral group Lady- nothing but strings, Garbus’ pro- myself, ‘What should I do?’/But all ducing by means of its repetition. A Near the end of the song, the smith Black Mambazo, who gained claims “I’m only human,” before I know is white centrality.” little past the halfway point, the beat music unexplainably cuts out. After prominence after collaborating with turning right back into a disco beat In a recent NPR interview, while drops to an 808 crawl before picking several odd moments of silence, we him. While it is nice to see Garbus covered with synthesizers. This is discussing the new album, Garbus back up whilst Garbus speaks over realize that the record isn’t broken paying homage to her heroes, it is also one of Garbus’ strongest vocal stated: “A lot of this album is me try- the music: “Close your eyes/Get in as Garbus comes back in and eerily Continued on Page 7 6 sports January 29, 2018 Great Defense Leads Lady Tritons to Top of the Central Conference Roderick M. Wilbon one steal. “It was a good game over- Sports Editor all, we could have been better on the defensive side,” said Jackson. “I try he Lady Tritons battled Rock- to keep a clear head when I’m out Thurst University January 25. there and look for my teammates to The game was much different from get them a great shot.” their regular games. The team usu- On January 27, the Ladies faced ally swarms the opponent on de- the Bellarmine Knights and won 72- fense. They break down opponents’ 61. The Knights were a team that sets and keep them out of rhythm. gave them quite the test. The La- On this note the Tritons were the dies gained their fifth straight win same, but the difference was there and the definitive first place in the wasn’t the three-ball as much. central division of the Great Lakes The Tritons must have noticed a Valley Conference. The Lady Tri- weakness in Rockhurst’s game. The tons are 12-5 overall and 6-4 in the Tritons continually pounded Rock- GLVC and do not plan on losing that hurst in the paint. Rockhurst did not spot. Shawnta Johnson, senior, com- have an answer for the domination munications, finished the game with in the paint that the Tritons put on nine points, 11 rebounds, five assists them. Many of the Rockhurst play- and two great blocks. “It felt good, ers just looked bewildered and at a great team win and another point in loss. At halftime the game looked to the conference,” said Johnson. “We be completely over and done. had some issues tonight with transi-

Rockhurst came out of halftime WILBON/THE CURRENT RODERICK tion defense, but will work on that.” with more life and a different game Alex Laporta makes the layup in the paint. Johnson was seen in a boot after the plan. They put up a much bigger shoot no less than 47 percent for worse. year. Arielle Jackson, senior, biol- game, with possible ankle sprain. fight in the second half. The Tri- the game. Any time a team shoots Standouts Alex LaPorta, fresh- ogy and communications, seems to The Lady Tritons next home tons out rebounded Rockhurst to 40 percent from the field they are man, business administration, fin- be the starter or anchor on defense. game will be against The Universi- a plus 10 rebounds for a total of 43 putting themselves in good position ished with a double-double with Her temperature on defense dic- ty of Indianapolis, February 8, “The rebounds. Shooting that close to to win the basketball game. The Tri- 15 points and 10 rebounds. LaPor- tates the rest of the team. Jackson Lace Up for Cancer Game.” the basket seemed as if the Tritons tons won the game in fashion 78- ta can be a double-double machine, finished the game with 18 points, could not miss. The team would 68, in which could have been a lot with this being her eighth on the seven rebounds, seven assists and Defense Holding the Men's Basketball Back Roderick M. Wilbon switches and guys communicating. Sports Editor Everybody on the team contributed to the win. D.J. White, senior, phys- he University of Missouri-St. ical education, gave the team big TLouis Men’s Basketball look minutes. In 15 minutes of action off like they are trying something dif- the bench he scored 12 points and ferent. The team is 9-10 overall and seven rebounds. White got his shot 4-6 in the conference. The team is from anywhere on the floor. a well-balanced team of frontcourt Anthony Hughes, freshman, and backcourt players. They all computer science, scored his sea- bring a unique skillset to the team son high 18 points and nine re- and offensive ability. What about bounds. Hughes was very active a the defense though? Well, it has not defense, with his hands and body. been stellar. “When a team is laxed Hughes diving for balls and even a on defense it makes the offense stag- chase down block. The chase down nant,” said Assistant Coach Chico block that resembled Lebron James, Jones. yes and the crowd roared. One fan This team has not had the sense while flexing muscles yelled, “He’s of urgency on defense that is need- a big boy guard.” ed to contend with teams in the It was a huge win and a conference in many games. It is much-needed win for the team. rather shocking night in and night Then January 27 the team would out that the defense has not gotten face the Bellarmine Knights. Bel- much better. Many fans are think- larmine is 18-2 overall and 9-2 in the ing something must happen and this conference. A team that is playing team needs a win bad. Well they met big time basketball and one of the WILBON/THE CURRENT RODERICK fans in the middle. favorites. It would be an uphill bat- Jose Grubbs looks for his shot and pass. January 25 the men played tle the entire game for the Tritons. Johnathan Matthews, junior, com- was the only one that came to ball The Men’s next home game will Rockhurst University in a 79-49 win In a 78-56 loss the Tritons were just munication, who scored a game- and was a spark off the bench. Hope- be against The University of India- of complete domination. The team outclassed. high 18 points, one assist, three fully, fans will see the team again napolis, February 8, “The Lace Up defense was very active, plenty of Standout for the Tritons was rebounds and one steal. Seemed he play like they did against Rockhurst. for Cancer Game.” Athletes Honored for Academics Roderick M. Wilbon the fall 2017 semester. The Athletic Sports Editor Department has a cumulative GPA of 3.3 The highest honor is going to here was more than 130 Uni- Danielle Waedekin, senior, nursing, Tversity of Missouri-St. Louis a superb libero from the volleyball students from the Athletic Depart- team. She was presented with the ment honored January 25 as part of First Team Academic All-American Academic Appreciation Night for award. obtaining a 3.2 and higher during RODERICK WILBON/THE CURRENT RODERICK The 130 students honored obtained a 3.2 and higher GPA for the fall 2017 semester. January 29, 2018 opinions, a&e, news 7 Walmart’s $11/Hr Wage Hike Leaves Many Problems Unsolved Kyle Mannisi If all of this wasn’t enough, St. Opinions Editor Louis’ favorite multi-billionaire Stan Kroenke is married to the almart is the largest pri- daughter of Walmart’s co-founder, Wvate employer in the state of James Walton. For anyone keeping Missouri, with over 13,000 workers score at home, this financial pow- in the St. Louis area alone. The re- er couple possess a combined net tail mega-chain announced that it worth of over $13 billion. Kroenke would raise its minimum wage to starved the Edward Jones Dome of $11 per hour, citing recent tax re- needed upgrades in an attempt to form, beginning in mid-February. convince city officials of the neces- The decision drew praise from sity of building himself a massive many Republican commentators; riverfront stadium. The failed plan “Huge news! Truly amazing and in- would have meant that St. Louis spiring to witness the tax cuts lifting taxpayers would be responsible for millions of hardworking Americans footing a majority of the estimated up,” tweeted White House Press $1.1 billion stadium. Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders. It is unfortunate that many

The same day of the minimum OF ALEXANDRU TUGUI COURTESY Americans are forced to rely on wage hike announcement, Walmart Walmart has decided to raise its minimum wage to $11/hr, claiming recent tax reform was responsible. Walmart, indirectly supporting broke the news that 10 percent of tiate with unions. Committee on Education and the Unsurprisingly, Walmart heav- their questionable practices. Many their Sam’s Club locations would be Though Republicans have laud- Workforce issued a report in 2013 ily utilizes underpaid foreign labor areas of urban St. Louis have be- closing down. In some cases, the af- ed Walmart for its apparent gener- analyzing Walmart’s effect on the with horrendous working condi- come “food deserts”; defined by the fected employees were not notified osity, it seems as though Walmart’s economy and how their stores im- tions. In November 2012, a gar- USDA as “urban neighborhoods and of their store’s closing until they ar- board members have decided that a pact local communities. The report ment factory in Bangladesh that has rural towns without ready access to rived to work that same day. This measly wage bump would be neces- estimated that each Walmart store worked extensively with Walmart fresh, healthy, and affordable food.” practice of failing to notify employ- sary to stave off calls for unioniza- costs taxpayers between $900,000 caught fire, resulting in the deaths of Lack of oversight has resulted in ees of their store’s closing has been tion. Governor Eric Greitens’ efforts and $1,750,000 for social services 112 workers. Survivors say that the many individuals and groups tak- utilized dozens of times. to make Missouri a Right to Work for their workers such as Section 8 fire extinguishers did not work, the ing action to combat this problem, In 2015, Walmart shuttered five state deprives unions of their bar- housing, subsidized school lunches, fire doors were locked, and workers though often with limited effect. retail stores after labor activism be- gaining power, meaning workers and earned income tax credits. were told to return to their stations Walmart’s measly minimum wage gan to take hold in the locations. have decreased ability to effective- Eighteen percent of all SNAP after fire alarms began to ring. The hike does very little to assist with Over 2,200 employees were conse- ly address issues and concerns with benefits were redeemed through affected workers only made an aver- the real issues that plague America’s quently left jobless with only a few management. Walmart, meaning that Walmart is age of $38 USD per month. After the low-wage workers. Walmart’s trou- hours notice, though Walmart’s of- Not only do Walmart and other raking in $13.5 billion dollars an- fire, Walmart flatout denied work- bling labor-rights history, bad bene- ficial reasoning for the closed stores “big-box retailers” have a real ten- nually from the government. Iron- ing with the factory, however leaked fits, and poor international business claimed that “plumbing problems” dency to drive out small business- ically, these recipients are often documents show at least five suppli- practices should make people re- were to blame. Strangely, the chain es from cities, they also force the Walmart’s own employees who earn er companies had entered contract consider whether or not patroniz- that cares so much about its em- town’s population to rely on them low enough wages through their job with the factory to provide apparel ing Walmart is in their best interest. ployees would rather pull the plug for employment once those small to still qualify for SNAP benefits, merchandise to Walmart and Sam’s on five stores than attempt to nego- businesses are gone. The U.S. House among other programs. Club. New Tune-Yards' LP is Half of a Good Album Continued from Page 5 privileged I am. But, ‘Don’t tell me song EP. unfortunate that this song is mostly I’m free,’ that’s what came out. And Now, I have had my issues with forgettable. I try to respect what gets channeled, past Tune-Yards albums, but if I Finally, we have “Free,” which even if it feels wrong.” were recommending an album to focuses on Garbus’ perceived dual- Musically, the song is not that in- newcomers to the group, I would ity of being a white woman. In re- teresting, if you ask me. But, like all point them toward one of their pre- gards to the album-closer, Garbus’ music, it is subjective. vious LPs. Still, there are some great has stated: “I’ve spent a lot of years Personally, I still stand by my songs on this new album. Unfortu- working on owning being a woman. first statement: this album is top- nately though, it starts to fall apart Of course, I’m free – I’ve just spent heavy. The first half would have by the time it gets to the second half. this whole album talking about how easily made for a great five or six Metro Area Among Hardest Hit with Influenza Joseph Salamon ically eastern Missouri—has been • If you have yet to do so, get a News Editor one of the most susceptible areas in preventative flu shot the country. According to the Mis- While the flu is a common ill- seasonal influenza outbreak souri Department of Health and ness, epidemics like these are not Ahas many people around cam- Senior Services, the total cases of to be taken lightly, as they can po- pus concerned for the well-being influenza in our state this season is tentially have deadly repercussions. of the student body. D’Andre Brad- 54,000 and counting, with nearly According to the Center of Dis- dix, assistant dean of students, sent half of those cases coming from the ease Control, 49 influenza-related a campus-wide email on behalf of eastern region. deaths have been reported in the University Health Services at the To help stifle this outbreak, state alone. University of Missouri-St. Louis is- Health Services provided some tips: Health Services, located at 131 suing a warning via email last week • Unless you are visiting Health Millennium Student Center, pro- highlighting the severity of the is- Services for an appointment, do not vides flu shots on campus for $20, sue, stating that there has already come to campus if you have been di- as well as on-site flu testing for the been several cases of influenza on agnosed with influenza same price. They also can prescribe campus. • Do not return to campus until Tamiflu for patients who have been The epidemic has affected areas your body temperature drops below experiencing symptoms for less nationwide, but Missouri—specif- 100 degrees for at least 24 hours than 48 hours prior to their visit. 8 January 29, 2018 Wizard World St. Louis is Around the Corner continued from page 4 end long. Some that might not have available online. live entertainment, comics, sci-fi, show hours are February 2 from 4 Resin Casting, Pokemon), require been seen by you or exclusive to the Wizard World Comic Con events graphic novels, toys, original art, to 9 p.m.; February 3 from 10 a.m. to additional tickets. con. bring together thousands of fans of collectibles, contests and more. The 7 p.m., and February 4 from 10 a.m. Do not forget Wizard World will A full list of Wizard World Com- all ages to celebrate the best in pop second event scheduled on the 2018 to 4 p.m. be showing huge trailers all week- ic Con St. Louis programming is culture: movies, television, gaming, Wizard World calendar, St. Louis What’s Current Wednesdays

Wednesday, February 7, 2018 - 2 PM MSC Century Room C For Cookies and Conversation* Sexual harassment and sexual assault have been the focus of a recent surge of media attention. Join The Current and Dr. Zoë Peterson, Associate Professor of Psychological Sciences and direc- tor of the Sexual Assault Research and Education Program, for a conversation on this important issue. Dr. Peterson will briefly present research findings that both support and counter some of the media messages related to sexual harassment and assault. Discussion will address similarities and differences between sexual assault/harassment in Hollywood versus on college campuses, campus policies and responsibilities in relation to sexual harassment/assault, and what constitutes appropriate versus inappropriate sexual behavior.

The New York Times feature that will serve as the jumping off point for the conversation is “What the Weinstein Effect Can Teach Us About Campus Sexual Assault” which can be found at: goo.gl/HUVhXS “What’s Current Wednesdays” is a monthly forum for faculty and student discussions about current events, co- sponsored by The Current and the New York times, with support from Community Outreach & Engagement at UMSL. The Current UMSL’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1966 For more information, visit The Current website at www.thecurrent-online.com. * Cookies/dessert and beverages provided to the first 25 students.