midtown voice - Faces of Midtown

THE
OFFICIAL
NEWSPAPER
OF
THE
MIDTOWN
CENTER
Midtown Voice
VOLUME 6 - EDITION 3
J u l y
W E E K E N D
F O R E C A S T -
F R I :
7 9
˚
1 1 ,
2 0 1 4
|
S A T :
8 0
˚
|
S U N :
7 8
˚
Dr. Kenon Brown Visits Midtown
By: Noah Alonzo
Kenon Brown, 32, is an assistant professor at the University of Alabama. Through a referral at DePaul University, Dr. Brown was invited to
guest lecture to Midtown’s PR class. He thought it would be a great idea and a good excuse to come to Chicago, “I like what Midtown stands for.”
Kenon Brown was born in Memphis, Tennessee. He attended Memphis Central High School and then went off to Knoxville to go to the
University of Tennessee. During his time at college, he had the mind set to become a music director from many inspirations; however, his thoughts
changed.
He decided to enroll in a communication class. He thought working with public communications will be a more fulfilling career. “You never
really know what your experiences in high school or college will shape your future.” Kenon then stayed at the University of Tennessee to earn his
Master’s degree.
While attending college, Kenon paid for his college tuition by managing at Taco Bell and later did marketing for Buffalo Wild Wings. Kenon
wanted to work his way up at his time with Buffalo Wild Wings, but was encouraged by his college advisor, who knew of Kenon’s writing talents, to
earn his Ph.D. at the University of Alabama. He accepted and believed it was one of the best decisions he made.
Kenon stayed in Tuscaloosa after earning his Ph.D., and became one of the youngest professors on campus. He loves his relationship with the
other professors and his own students, “I couldn’t have picked a better place to work. I love my colleagues. It’s very enlightening to learn from them
not just an academic level but on a personal level and learn how to be a well-rounded person. I have a personal and respected bond with my students.
They’re great. They know I mean business, and they come to me for help. I wouldn’t be here today if I didn’t get respect from them.”
Kenon also loves continuing to work with music, by writing, and directing schools bands when asked to. Kenon also enjoys spending time
with his two year old daughter and his girlfriend. Kenon knows that he has a similar background to the students of Midtown and feels obligated to
share his experiences and help them prepare for their future. He wishes everyone their best of luck and believes what we are doing here is great.
1
This publication was supported by a grant from The PRSA Foundation and a subaward from DePaul University.
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Midtown News:
The Support Crew of Midtown
By: Roman Gomez
Although they may not be acknowledged much, the support staff (best known as the guys with the green shirts), in their own way, keep
Midtown together. In many ways they are the first line of defense for any problems that the students may have. They enforce many of the rules, keep
the students in place, and are there for any of the student’s, parent’s, or teacher’s needs. The support staff spends their entire day helping all the
people of Midtown. I think it’s safe to say things would not be as easy and comfortable without the support staff and it’s only fair we acknowledge
each member of the support staff and their titles.
Angel Roman- One on one program assistant
Efrain Araujo- College orientation program assistant
Regino Callan- MAP program assistant
Emmanuel Castillo and Paul Lopez- one program support staff
Jose Munoz and Endre Roman- Hallway monitors
David Castillo, Salbador Lopez, Austin Arteaga, Andre Jackson, and
Joseph Wilkerson- Support
Jorge Merlos- Lobby Squire
The Future of Engineering
By: Jose Resendez
With all the technology in the world, what more is there to be
Efrain Araujo and Mike Walsh discussing plans for the COP
created? Well, that’s what the engineering apprenticeship is here for. From
working on bridges and their stability to creating solar powered cars with better aerodynamic designs, this is the future of what is yet to come for the
technology of engineering. One of the first projects that the engineering apprenticeship worked on was, building a speaker. We have all heard of the
infamous beats by Dr. Dre. Well the Engineering students have proved that they are overpriced, by building their own headphones with very simple
household materials like a shoebox, a Styrofoam plate, and copper wire.
Another project that they made was a bridge that consisted of popsicles and was tested by the amount of weight it was able to maintain before
collapsing. One of the biggest projects that they created was a solar car. This experiment was tested by the speed limit it was able to hit. This can
greatly impact the future of automobiles, by making them more economic and help save fossil fuels to reduce contamination.
The current project that they are currently working on is a boat consisting of a Styrofoam cup and straws), which they will soon be testing the
ability of these boats by the amount of weight it can hold. These projects may seem insignificant now but soon these young adults will be the future
of engineering technology yet to come. “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” -Lao Tzu
2
www.FacesofMidtown.com
The People vs. Andrew Madison
By: Benjamin Fonseca and Samuel J. Ocon
The Law apprenticeship has a tradition. A
tradition borne from their knowledge and
understanding of the law. A tradition used to express
and demonstrate their skills as lawyers (and for some,
their acting skills). Each year, the Law apprenticeship
puts on two mock trials, where the students argue
heatedly in order to sway the opinion of the judges,
Lead Instructor Stephen Paul and Assistant Instructor
Amar Moolayi. This year was no exception. The
mock trial presented was the case of: The People vs.
Andrew Madison. The prosecuting counsel consisted
of Darius, Antonio, Daniel, and Andres. The defense
included Quentin, Carlos, and Vincent. In this years’
heated battle, the prosecutors were attempting to have
Andrew Madison charged with assault and battery
on a police officer as well as resisting arrest.
Presiding over the case are Stephen Paul and Omar Moolayi, pictured right and far right.
As the defense ruled that there was no need
for an opening motion, the trial began as the defense thoroughly cross examined the witnesses’ brought to the stand by the prosecution, including the
roles of Kevin Bates (Rick Montenegro), Teresa Major (Jesus Dominguez), Mark Snow (Justin Manns), Penelope Carter (Pedro Suarez), James
Lincoln (Modesto Lopez), and finally Andrew Madison (Brandon Cortez).
Representative of a real life scenario, many of the witnesses seemed to recall a different story than the statement they have previously made
before. The witnesses questioned are the prosecutors/defense most valuable asset, and in that regard, retelling a different story to the jury, may have
been the deciding factor in this case. The witnesses for both sides were both unreliable and unsure of their own answers, providing a weak spot for
the skilled lawyer. The defense, sensing this, capitalized and exploited the witnesses’ lack of commitment, winning the case by a landslide.
Visit the Hollywood hot spot
Today!
Pizza, nachos, Drinks, treats, & more
The HHS is definitely your best
Choice for a great meal!
Witness Mark Snow being questioned by
prosecution lawyer Antonio Gutierrez
3
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Nation and World News:
Hurricane Arthur Strikes Carolinas
By: Jeremiah Williamson
Last week, Hurricane Arthur
pummeled the shores of North Carolina early
morning on Friday, July 4. This Hurricane
caused at least one waterspout in the afternoon
and evening. Hurricane Arthur was a category
2; the winds estimated up to 100 mph which
caused trees to fall down.
Other cities experienced wind speeds of
more than 62 mph. This caused flooding and
power outages. Because the people evacuated
the city there were no reports of injuries or
deaths. As Hurricane Arthur continued its
route, roads were blocked by fallen trees and
electrical poles were drowned in water.
This Hurricane stopped people in North
Carolina from participating in Independence
Day. However, as Hurricane Arthur began to
move up the southeastern coast it turned into a
category 1 hurricane, with wind speeds
estimated between 42 and 55 mph.
Aftermath of Hurricane Arthur in North Carolina’s Outer Banks
A Bad Awakening
By: Alex Munoz
It was around 6:30 on a Monday morning when residents
near Puerto Madero, Mexico, were hit by a 6.9- magnitude
earthquake. Not only did it affect citizens in Mexico, it also hit
parts of Guatemala, causing landslides to occur and houses to be
destroyed. Guatemalan President Otto Perez stated that the
quake caused “moderate damage.” More than 80 houses were
damaged, about 40 of them severely.
The death toll is low, and everyone hopes that it stays
that way. On Tuesday morning, the toll totaled 7 people,
including a newborn baby. About 35 people have been reported
to have been injured, most with head injuries. The quake was
reported to be 37 miles below the surface. Residents in El
Salvador also got to feel the powerful earthquake, but no
damage was reported.
Firefighters in Mexico assessing the damage from the 6.9 magnitude earthquake.
4
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Dawn of the Planet of the Drones
Chicago Copes with Violent Weekend
By: Khaziel Felt
By: Olajuwon Osinaike
The U.S. air safety regulator is drafting rules to permit small
drones to be used for commercial purposes, a step toward allowing
remote-control planes and helicopters to be deployed for everything
from TV news coverage to monitoring crops.
Over the holiday weekend the city of Chicago faced one of the
most traumatic experiences of this year. Over the weekend there have
been more than 50 cases of people being shot with at least 7 people
reported dead since Thursday. In an interview with Mark White, he
said that the violence around Chicago has affected him by showing
him that even outside on holidays you aren’t safe from violence. He
also said that he doesn’t believe the police will be more aggressive
next year because even when it isn’t the holidays they are scared of the
gangs. An example of this is how they arrive to scenes late. He pointed
out that gun laws may become stricter and make guns harder to obtain,
but gangs will still have guns and be able to obtain more.
Media companies, energy companies, farmers and other groups
have been pressuring the Federal Aviation Administration to lift its
ban on flying drones, known as unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, for
commercial use. Late last month, the agency’s watchdog said the FAA
was likely to miss the September 30, 2015 deadline that Congress set
for integrating drones into the national airspace.
If this is approved by the FAA there can be drones flying in the
sky above us. These drones can be beneficial to news coverage, public
safety, and etc. However, many people feel that is an invasion of
privacy.
Rahm Emanuel attends a vigil following the weekend’s shootings
The violence in Chicago is horrible, that even after the holidays
there are more cases being reported of people being shot and some of
them dying. On Facebook a person reposted a picture of a letter that
the KKK wrote saying that they appreciated gangbangers for the
deaths of thousands of African Americans. This just shows that the
violence here is so bad that gangbangers are killing people and each
other for no reason. The amount of violence here is unbearable; people
of all ages are dying everywhere. “There’s a greater sanction for the
gang members to lose that firearm from their gang than there is to go
to jail for illegal gun possession,” said Chicago Police Superintendent
Garry McCarthy. The police continue to blame lax gun laws for the
violence over the weekend. As Chicagoans we need to stop murdering
each other for no reason and settle our differences peacefully.
5
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Arts and Entertainment:
A Little Taste of What’s To Come
By: Samuel Ocon
The Taste of Chicago is one of Chicago's’ biggest festivals. Started in 1980 by a small group of restaurant owners who wanted to “share their
food with the people”, the Taste of Chicago has since grown to host thousands of attendees and hundreds of restaurants that all offer a wide variety of
choices to satisfy the hungry pallets.
This year, the Taste started on Wednesday, July 9th, and will run through till Sunday the 13th. Every year, the Taste features a spectacular
lineup of both culinary and musical artists, and this year is no different.
Musical Acts:
Friday, July 11 "Blues and Soul"
Noon–1pm: Marvin Smith
1:30–2:20pm: The Right Now
3–4:15pm: Toronzo Cannon
4:45–6pm: Dave Weld
6:30–7:45pm: Stan Mosley
Saturday, July 12 "Dance"
Noon–1pm: Frankie Vega
1:30–2:30pm: Rubén Alvarez and Sun Sounds
3–4:15pm: Andre Hatchett
4:45-6pm: Pyro Fighter
6:30–7:45pm: Gemini Club
Sunday, July 13 "Country/Americana"
Noon–1pm: J.A. Cohen
1:30–2:30pm: Stone & Snow
3–4:15pm: The Blind Staggers
4:45–6pm: Todd Kessler & the New Folk
6:30–7:45pm: Logan Mize
The Petrillo Music Shell:
Nickel Creek
Emmylou Harris
Parker Millsap
The Petrillo Music Shell:
Jeff Tweedy
Lucinda Williams
The Petrillo Music Shell:
Aloe Blacc
The Wailers
Headliners at the Petrillo Music Shell from left to right: Nickel Creek, Jeff Tweedy and Aloe Blacc
Of course, those who wish to fully appreciate the Taste understand that the music is only a bonus. The real attraction is the food. From food
trucks to Pop-up restaurant stands, the attendees are in for a delicious treat. Some of the restaurants that are going to appear at the Taste include Beat
Kitchen, Billy Goat Inn, and even Connie’s Pizza. These are just a few of the establishments that will appear at the Taste this year, and man oh man,
they sound amazing! But visitors beware, although entry is free, the food choices are most certainly not. So bring your wallet and enjoy!
6
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Endless River
By: Marc Anthony Cruz
Mark your calendars! Pink Floyd’s newest album will be released in October of
2014. Their first album in 20 years is called Endless River and Pink Floyd fans are kicking
and screaming with excitement. Fans are certainly expecting Pink Floyd to live up to their
musical reputation. This is sure to be a memorable album after those in the past such as The
Wall, Dark Side of the Moon, and Ummagumma. After Gilmour announced Pink Floyd’s
retirement, their fans were so disappointed. Even more when they had their last performance
in 2006. Pink Floyd started this new album Endless River in 1994, but gave up after a few
songs. The album’s release was first announced on twitter by Polly Samson, David
Gilmour’s wife. Gilmour is the lead singer and guitarist of the band. A few weeks after the
hope sparking tweet, Gilmour announced that this new album is based off their very first
album, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. After years of conflict within the band, loss of
members, and incredible unforgettable music, the band had their last album in 1994. Now,
after 20 years they have decided to give the world music again.
Transform, and Roll Out!
A review of Transformers: Age of Extinction
By: Ulysses Serrato
Enter a post-apocalyptic Chicago, where
the Autobots and Decepticons have fought
a war that left much of the city in shambles.
Continuing from Transformers: Dark of the
Moon, what little there is left of the
Autobots and Decepticons seem to be
disappearing, and the humans have been
fed up with these alien robots. The
government takes action in deciding to
exterminate all the robots that remain on
planet Earth, regardless of them being
Autobots or Decepticons. But there is a
greater threat that arises: Megatron is
revived, and comes to be known as
Galvatron. Humans and Autobots must join
forces once more to destroy the
I was excited to see Grimlock, leader of the Dinobots, in the fourth Transformers film.
Decepticons and save planet Earth.
Michael Bay’s Transformers finally
incorporates the “Dinobots” in Age of Extinction, which I consider a big hit-or-miss situation when it comes to fan appeal. Some exclaim that the
Dinobots were irrelevant to the story, while others, like me, had a more nostalgic approach towards the Dinobots, and accepted the idea of them being
featured in the film with open hands. While it’s fair to assume that the Dinobots can make the already plot-hole stricken story more puzzling, it all
makes sense in the end.
Unfortunately, Age of Extinction didn’t have the same appealing celebrities as the earlier Transformers movies, such as Shia LaBeouf, Josh
Duhamel, and need I mention Megan Fox? Instead, Age of Extinction had slightly unknown actors, such as Nicola Peltz and Irish actor Jack Reynor.
The most well-known actor was definitely Mark Wahlberg. The actors did fine playing their roles, but the dialogue wasn’t too impressive.
Nevertheless, the highlight of the film were the action scenes, and that seems to be the case with all of the Transformers movies thus far.
As a huge fan of the Transformers franchise, I had high hopes for Transformers: Age of Extinction. It is the fourth (and hopefully last)
installment in Michael Bay’s Transformers saga. As expected, there was a lackluster of actual story plot and element, but an overwhelming amount
of explosions, robots fighting, and destruction. Things aren’t all that bad though, true fans of the franchise might be disappointed, while twelve yearolds will be craving for more. After all, what kid doesn’t love robot fights and dinosaurs? Transformers: Age of Extinction is a high-budget, action
packed film with amazing visual and special effects that is absolutely worth watching. I give it 4 out of 5 stars
7
www.FacesofMidtown.com
Sports:
85th Annual MLB All-Star Game
By: Mark G. White
Jonathan Lucroy; Catcher; Milwaukee Brewers
Freddie Freeman; First Baseman; Atlanta Braves
Dee Gordon; Second Baseman; Los Angeles Dodgers
Starlin Castro; Short Stop; Chicago Cubs
Todd Frazier; Third Baseman; Cincinnati Reds
Giancarlo Stanton; Outfielder; Miami Marlins
Charlie Blackmon; Outfielder; Colorado Rockies
Hunter Pence; Outfielder; San Francisco Giants
Johnny Cueto; Pitcher; Cincinnati Reds
Adam Wainwright; Pitcher; St. Louis Cardinals
Clayton Kershaw; Pitcher; Los Angeles Dodgers
Madison Bumgarner; Pitcher; San Francisco Giants
Julio Teheran; Pitcher; Atlanta Braves
Craig Kimbrel; Relief Pitcher; Atlanta Braves
Francisco Rodriguez; Relief Pitcher; Milwaukee Brewers
Aroldis Chapman; Relief Pitcher; Cincinnati Reds
Devin Mesoraco; Catcher; Cincinnati Reds
Daniel Murphy; Second Baseman; New York Mets
Matt Carpenter; Short Stop; St. Louis Cardinals
Chicago Cubs All-Star Selection Starlin Castro
Salvador Perez; Catcher; Kansas City Royals
Jose Abreu; First Baseman; Chicago White Sox
Jose Altuve; Second Baseman; Houston Astros
Alexei Ramirez; Short Stop; Chicago White Sox
Adrian Beltre; Third Baseman; Texas Rangers
Michael Brantley; Outfielder; Cleveland Indians
Yoenis Cespedes; Outfielder; Oakland Athletics
Alex Gordon; Outfielder; Kansas City Royals
Victor Martinez; Designated Hitter; Detroit Tigers
Masahiro Tanaka; Pitcher; New York Yankees
Felix Hernandez; Pitcher; Seattle Mariners
Mark Buehrle; Pitcher; Toronto Blue Jays
Scott Kazmir; Pitcher; Oakland Athletics
Yu Darvish; Pitcher; Texas Rangers
Greg Holland; Relief Pitcher; Kansas City Royals
Sean Doolittle; Relief Pitcher; Oakland Athletics
Dellin Betances; Relief Pitcher; New York Yankees
Kurt Suzuki; Catcher; Minnesota Twins
Edwin Encarnacion; Short Stop; Toronto Blue Jays
Derek Norris; Second Baseman; Oakland Athletics
Brandon Moss; First Baseman; Oakland Athletics
This shall be one of the greatest MLB All-Star Games that have ever been
played. Both National and American League teams have amazing players on their
rosters by paper, but will they be able to compete against the rest of the star players
in the MLB. I believe the National League have an advantage in this game with
starting pitchers Clayton Kershaw from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Adam
Wainwright from the St. Louis Cardinals. Then again, I also believe Jose Abreu of
the Chicago White Sox will hit a couple home runs. Furthermost, I predict the
National League to win 7-4.
TV Schedule
Celebrity Softball Game: Saturday, July 12th 7:30 P.M CT - ESPN
The Gillette Home Run Derby: Monday, July 14th 7:00 P.M CT – ESPN
85th MLB All-Star Game: Target field, Tuesday, July 15th 6:30 P.M CT – FOX TV
8
www.FacesofMidtown.com