Alternative Medicine

 

His blonde dreadlocks are perfectly wrapped in a tightly sealed man-bun, and his casual clothes don’t resemble a repressed corporate uniform. His bohemian attire syncs with his harmonious and vintage style.

“My mom got me into crystal healing, she got me a pendulum (divinity tool). There’s a lot of different ways that you could read signs from the universe. There’s not one prescribed way that everyone should follow”, said Alex Drummond, DePaul alumnus and owner of Infiniteus Rock and Juice.

Your vibe attracts your tribe. This isn’t just an instagram hashtag or a bohemian meme. This new age mantra is the portrait of a generation known for asking, “what’s your zodiac sign?” Among millennials, occult practices have risen as churches traditional organized religions are abandoned. Faith is placed on crystals, in astrology, humanism, naturalism and spirituality. Stroll into a millenial’s bedroom and you may capture a glimpse of a generation; from a dusty dream catcher dangling in a corner, to ambient light sourced from a Himalayan salt lamp.

Self-care, recharge, cleaning the aura (electromagnetic human energy field), saging the home (a Native American ritual to cleanse the home, person or object) and detoxing. These components have been perfectly woven together in Infiniteus Rocks and Juice, Chicago’s first metaphysical boutique and organic juice bar, an establishment located at 1644 W. North Ave, Chicago, that seems to embody the countercultural movement that so many millennials are embracing.

Entering Infiniteus Rocks and Juice feels like stumbling across an undiscovered realm, as you are dazed by the strong scent of pineapple and cucumber. Behind the counter, the juice barista is gathering clumps of mixed greens and fruit and depositing them into a large stainless steel mastecator (blender).  She continues this methodical process by placing the produce pulp into a cold pressor and extracting every ounce of raw, organic juice into a cylinder glass. Green Crack, a best seller, is one of their twelve, 100% raw and organic juice blends which features apple, celery, cucumber, kale, parsley, lemon and ginger. Each juice is dedicated to increase energy levels, remove ailments, nourish the body, and they all have different ingredients. Green Crack focuses on boosting stamina, losing weight, and alkalizing. (Alkalizing is a macrobiotic diet from the 60’s intended to balance out the body from an acidic state so you are less prone to disease.)

Light, melodic sounds modulate from a speaker as you are taken back to a natural earth, before mankind dismantled it. The ambient music conjures you into a state of serenity; a sweet relief from chaotic Chicago. The psychedelic Chakra artwork beckons you to enter the bright rock room. Glass shelves are filled with luminous and almost magical-looking rocks and crystals. Large rocks are shielded away behind a glass door with aureate lighting. By each crystal and rock there is a description of its particular healing power. For example, Chalcopyrite is used for divine connection, finding lost objects and information, expands perception, and clears energy blockages. Crystal healing is an unconventional technique, harnessing the power of crystals, rocks and other stones to heal and protect against physical and emotional diseases. Crystal healing is supposed to be accomplished by using tools created by the Earth that assist people to unwind the mind, reach goals, and raise the level of “positive vibrations” in their daily lives.

To ancient mankind, mythology was science. Crystals had medicinal properties, and they assisted in balancing the supernatural and natural components of the body. The use of crystals date back about six thousand years, reaching ancient Egyptians, Native Americans and beyond. Ancient Egyptians have received the most credit for pioneering the implementation of crystals as instruments of healing.

They not only adorned themselves with the radiant and lucid crystals. They truly believed that by engraving Lapis Lazuli, a bright blue, metamorphic rock, that this would symbolize the sun God, Ra, and would ward off illness and negative energy. The Cherokee were known for concealing crystals in their homes as a way to represent Earth Mother. Many other cultures have utilized crystals in similar ways.

Crystal healing is based on adapted concepts from Buddhist, Hindu, and Asian cultures that each individual stone is assigned with specific properties to heal mental, physical and spiritual deficiency. These crystals are believed to contain supernatural life-energies that heal.

The first step is to choose an appropriate crystal. You can search for the healing properties that you are seeking, or follow the gravitational energy that pulls you towards a specific crystal. For example, if you are enduring heartache or mourning the loss of a loved one, Rose Quartz would be a beneficial stone as it is the universal stone of love and used to heal one’s heart from disappointment and pain.

The second option is seeking assistance from a Shaman (medicine man or woman with the ability to heal human suffering through energies). During this healing session, a Shaman will place various stones or crystals on the chakra (energy center) points of the body from the crown of the head to the genital area. In Chicago the average cost for Shaman healing session or an alternative healer will cost around 65 dollars.

During a treatment session, the patient can either meditate with the stone by clutching it with both hands, keeping their eyes closed, while focusing on their breath. You can set an intention and allow for the vibration to summon it.

A third option is to place the crystal on your yoga mat to provide a tranquil environment during savasana (corpse pose), or to carry the crystal with you. People do this to be more directly aware of the crystal’s energy, and to refocus the energy on the intention that has been originally set. Others place the crystals underneath their pillows to absorb positive energy as they sleep, or wear the crystals, as Shamans refer to them, as “amulets” or “talismans.”

Shamans are not the only ones to capitalize on this popular spiritual supermarket. E-commerce websites such as Etsy have benefitted from crystals as well. They sell everything from body mists, to beauty products and jewelry that is infused with moonstones and other crystals. They are said to be charged with the light of the full moon. A hydrating creme “charged with tourmaline” will cost 44 dollars and a “mindful nail polish” infused with citrine will cost 15 dollars. Crystal kits are also available on Etsy and range from 16 dollars to 50 dollars. These kits contain 16 hand picked crystals, an aura mist, and a small bundle of sage. Celebrity Kylie Jenner dedicated a video on her app to discuss her new enthusiasm with crystals. Famous Youtube stars have also dedicated videos on crystal healing and their personal testimonies to the healing properties.

26 year old Cosmetologist, Molly Rieder, has been a spiritual wanderer, despite her Christian upbringing. She believes in the healing powers that reside in crystals. She believes in God, but also finds that crystals have helped her cope with her stress and anxiety. “I try to relax and hold the crystal in my hand, and I also carry them with me throughout the day so the healing process is always with me. I just meditate and say self assuring mantras,” said Rieder. Currently, Rieder is possessing Black Tourmaline in her pocket. This crystal promotes self-confidence, and provides a psychic shield from destructive forces.

Distinguished physicist and mechanical engineer, Nikola Tesla, firmly believed that everything in the universe contained its own energy, frequency, and vibration. He concluded that some forms of energy were able to alter the vibrations of other energy aspects. He has been quoted as saying, “The day science begins to study non-physical phenomena, it will make more progress in one decade than in all the previous centuries of its existence.”

Certainly, the belief in the power of crystals is nothing new, and it seems to have influenced a wide variety of cultures around the world. However, today, its popularity in the United States seems to be growing. According to a study conducted by Pew Research in 2009, about 30% of the adults over the age of 18 viewed yoga not just as exercise, but as a spiritual practice. Additionally, 20% believe in the “Evil Eye”, and that certain people can cast curses or spells to harm them. About 30% of religiously-unaffiliated Americans believe that spiritual energy is located in physical things, such as mountains, trees and crystals. Younger generations seek solace and comfort in crystal healing and spiritual practices because it allows them to dabble and mix elements of different faiths and older traditions. They individualize it and make it their own self-healing philosophy.

Millenials are not the only source for this flourishing crystal market. Celebrities have also dabbled in crystal mysticism. Some of these celebrity spiritual influencers are Katy Perry, Adele, Victoria Beckham and Robin Thicke. In 2014 singer Robin Thicke spent 20,000 dollars on the crystal Amethyst in order to fix his deteriorating marriage with his wife. Another loyal follower is singer Adele. She suffered technical issues in her 2016 Grammy performance and blamed the loss of her crystals. According to The Sun, she said, “Then the Grammy’s came and I lost my fucking crystals!” she explained. “I had a gig two or three days before them and I think I left them at this venue. It turned out to be the worst, most disastrous performance that I have ever done. Well, apart from one really early on when I was doing a gig in Angle and I got so drunk I fell off my chair. But I got some new crystals now and everything’s been going well.”

Crystals are naturally formed during the displacement of the Earth’s crust when heated liquids and gases are mixed with different elements as they travel towards the surface. Once the gases and liquids cool down they solidify to form igneous rock. Once this rock is exposed, it begins to crumble down into the ocean and form a silt accumulation. After millions of years, these accumulations will compress and form crystals.

Sophomore, Sophia Gomez, was raised Catholic, and finds grounding in Catholicism, but also believes that crystals have strong healing elements. She has a collection of over 25 different crystals. She rotates her crystals in her apartment and sometimes carries one in her pocket. She’s very picky about where she purchases her crystals as she seeks authenticity.  She will not purchase them at an Urban Outfitters or a Target, only reputable places like Drummonds. “People are looking for something less constricting with the same amount of freedom. People are looking for different ways to get into spirituality. We are in need of help sometimes, whether it comes in the form of a rock or a prayer. It will leave you in a better position. A life lesson for me has been to be more open minded. I’ve only had good things come out from it,” said Gomez.

DePaul sophomore, Adriana Yochelson, identifies as an agnostic and doesn’t fit in with the millennial herd. She finds new age phenomenon interesting and has nothing but appreciation for it, however, it is not something that she pursues. “I’m open to everything. I have friends who do Tarot readings and collect crystals for different energies. I’m practical where, if I want something to change, I will not rely on a belief system or any of that (crystals),” said Yochelson.

Inasmuch as Yochelson questions mysticism and steers away from occultism, DePaul alumnus and owner of Infiniteus Rocks and Juice, Alex Drummond, cultivated his business on the science of metaphysics.“I know people are waking to the occult because it is the time in history where we awaken to more of the capabilities of the invisible world. That’s metaphysics. We can observe it now since it is finally catching up to hermetics(philosophical and spiritual belief attributed to Hermes Trismegistus an Egyptian priest. Regards humanity to be on a spiritual journey to return to a state of unity with the Divine),” said Drummond.

The thirty-year-old, Drummond, graduated from DePaul University in 2010, majoring in business management with a concentration in entrepreneurship, and a minor in sociology. Drummond remained as the outlier in his DePaul group. He used his educational background and experience to construct his business from the ground up, with zero loans or assistance from his family. He believes that people are becoming “awake”, and are veering away from being “slaves to traffic life and the nine to five routine.” Several of his DePaul peers have not utilized their college degrees and are working in cubicles, or a “prison system”, as he calls it. Drummond’s teammates at Infiniteus share his passions, and are free to be creative while assisting people with their knowledge on crystals.

“My shop helps others realize their own capability. When you come into Infiniteus, you can expect to be able to talk about stuff that the government and big businesses don’t want you to know about. For instance, the chemical trails they are spraying from planes, the poison they add to food, and the doctors they kill who discover vaccines,” said Drummond. Much more than rocks and juice, Infiniteus is a gathering place for a multifaceted mindset.

Paige Dolan has been working for Alex for about seven months, and has always been drawn to crystals and their metaphysical properties. She has been collecting crystals since she was a child. She holds a bachelors in political science from Northern Illinois University, and works as a sales associate and juice barista at Infiniteus. “We are returning to nature. Crystals are tangible tools for guidance, and tools for energy to meditate and heal something in yourself. I get to work with crystals all day, and I get to talk to people and help them with their problems,” said Dolan.

With nothing but contempt for these popular beliefs in “alternative medicine”, skeptics, scientists, and medical doctors strongly disagree that crystals operate as conduits to alleviate ill health and transform people. They also view this parascience as a “placebo effect”, or as “the power of suggestion”, implying that these stones are spiritual gadgets that contain zero evidence to cure ailments or remove “negative vibes” from one’s body. Medical doctors view crystal healing as a temporary and therapeutic phenomenon stirred by faith. They also see no proof that crystals and rocks can remove pain and suffering, and suggest seeking a licensed physician.

For skeptics, crystals are viewed as literal crystals or glistening home decor for a lonely office desk.  Christopher C. French professor and head of anomalistic psychology a the University of London used to be attracted to all paranormal things. Now he spends his time teaching people how cognitive biases lead people to misinterpret situations as paranormal instances. In 1997 he led a study on healing crystals. His study concluded that the feelings that people reported when handling the crystals was correlated to the power of suggestion.

Western medicine treats specific parts of the body, or it targets a symptom of a certain disease, but it never reaches the genesis or cause. Critics of modern medicine are in favor of healing crystals as they feel most doctors prescribe pharmaceuticals aimlessly, which merely masks symptoms and makes the patient feel elevated.

Crystal healing is not regulated by the government, and is often viewed in conjunction with massage therapy for it’s zen and relaxation properties. Crystal healing takes a foreign approach that pushes the individual to take control of one’s health, and to change the lifestyle that is causing poor health. The emotional balance (Chakras) are essential to the physiological well being of the person. The objective is to transfer all of the “good intentions”, and “raise the vibrations” to prevent diseases.

“It’s necessary that people know how to care for their tribe. That’s actually what my business is about; relying on the self and the tribe through strength of nutrition, and the invisible world powers we always have access to. My shop helps people to not rely on what they are used to relying on, like the government, or the medical system that tells you vaccines are healthy,” said Drummond. Drummond is committed to what he believes in and practices what he preaches. His mother not only introduced him to crystals and taught him to speak to a higher self but he also strongly believes that vaccinations cause Autism. His mother started the Illinois Vaccine Awareness Coalition.  Drummond’s seven month daughter is not vaccinated.

Just as a physician can prescribe powerful medication, such as Prozac or Paxil to combat depression, an alternative healer can assign or determine a crystal, such as Rose Quartz or Amethyst,  which they believe will absorb the depression.

The main components for this alternative medicine is blind faith and invisible energy. Energy can be demonstrated with science, as everything contains energy. According to the laws of physics, energy cannot be created or destroyed. This theory can be scientifically authenticated when examining the body and mind. Scientists can measure brain waves with electrography, and it is proven that when someone’s “energy” is decreased, their immune system follows and causes a person to be ill.

Drummond plans to open up another metaphysical boutique in Santa Cruz North Carolina where his where his parents will retire. This month he started showcasing a mushroom art event. It will be held every first Friday of the month.

Whether you believe in the spiritual development of crystal healing, or an occult government, or a placebo cure, Infiniteus Rock and Juice will stand in a conscious evolution to serve its ever growing tribe.

 

 

 

Alex Drummond Owner of Infiniteus Rock & Juice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inside College Student: Private Marijuana Growth

Long, perfectly coiffed blonde hair, blue eyes, a thin, crisp sweater, jeans, and short black ankle boots; this is not the stereotypical look or attire of a marijuana grower. I sat with this young woman and, after discussing failed relationships and broken friendships, our conversations shifted to marijuana. “Is weed a drug? I mean, yes and no. ‘Drug’ is a pretty vague term these days. It can mean heroin or ibuprofen. I guess I would call it (marijuana) a drug, but more in the category of herbal medicine,” said college junior, Ashley Johnson.

I stretched out my legs on my old yoga mat and she gracefully positioned herself into a cross-legged Indian style, embracing the cold March grass. Ashley Johnson has been cultivating marijuana plants in her home for three months. What started off as a joke has transformed her into a full time urban agricultural entrepreneur. “I had some seeds and was planting some veggies and I was like, (growing marijuana) why not?  I’ve always loved gardening and I’ve always dreamed of growing my own marijuana plants. I never wanted to be some money-making mogul, I just wanted my own supply for the same reason I’m also growing tomatoes and melons… so I don’t have to buy them,” said Johnson.

Johnson’s personal supply of marijuana as well as fruits and vegetables.

I stretched out my legs on my old yoga mat and she gracefully positioned herself into a cross-legged Indian style, embracing the cold March grass. Ashley Johnson has been cultivating marijuana plants in her home for three months. What started off as a joke has transformed her into a full time urban agricultural entrepreneur. “I had some seeds and was planting some veggies and I was like, (growing marijuana) why not?  I’ve always loved gardening and I’ve always dreamed of growing my own marijuana plants. I never wanted to be some money-making mogul, I just wanted my own supply for the same reason I’m also growing tomatoes and melons… so I don’t have to buy them,” said Johnson.

Johnson, a proud Bernie Sanders supporter and environmentalist, strongly believes that marijuana should be legalized, primarily for medicinal purposes. Johnson endured anxiety and depression her sophomore year of high school. However, her’s wasn’t the typical condition of teen angst and rebellion. Johnson had sought help from a psychologist and was prescribed Valium. “Valium made me feel like I was moving through pudding, and you’re just super placid,” said Johnson. After two years, and failed attempts with four different psychologists, Johnson tried marijuana. She found it extremely holistic and conducive to maintaining her mental health. “I used to be more anxious, and I still am to a degree, but weed definitely has allowed me to slow down and think things through.  It has helped me adopt a more ‘chill’ mentality with life and the things I have an effect on. What I can change and what I can’t,” said Johnson.

Johnson has been smoking marijuana since the age of 18.

According to the Pew Research Center, 73 percent of Americans are in favor of legalizing marijuana, but only for medicinal purposes, and only if the drug is prescribed by a doctor. However, even those in favor worry about where the marijuana would be sold.  Another concern is the accessibility of marijuana for people who don’t have a medical need, but want to obtain it for recreational use.

Junior, Andrew Nuño, considers himself a strict law abiding citizen and student. He recently turned 21 years of age and had his first sip of real, legalized alcohol. Although he has never smoked cigarettes, or marijuana for that matter, he still believes that it should be legalized. “I have never smoked and don’t find the need to smoke. I would only smoke marijuana out of curiosity, and only if it were legal.” said Nuño

As mentioned earlier, Johnson has been cultivating marijuana plants in the safety of her home for three months. The flowers have been blooming since March. Her eco-friendly grow room consists of LED lights, foil to help contain the heat and light, along with one small fan to circulate the air. She uses organic soil, light timers, plant food, a fan, and a temperature and humidity gauge. Johnson “googled” and compiled information from different “growers” websites before she began her garden. She began this operation with a similar set-up that she uses for her fruits and vegetables. She gathered some seed starter pods, made them moist, and placed the seeds in an old heating pad to keep the seeds warm, which makes them conducive for growth.  They get about 16-18 hours of light on, and then 6-8 hours for the vegetative growth stage. During the flowering stage, the plants will require 12/12 hours ratio of sunlight.

DePaul University Professor, Barbara Willard, believes that marijuana should be legalized, and feels that growing the plant is not harmful for the environment. “These types of crops, that are easily regrown, have less of an impact on the environment. However, it should be noted that in order to be truly environmentally sound, it should be grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers,” Willard stated.

Ironically, Johnson’s parents are not aware of the marijuana growth operation that is taking place in their own home. Johnson says that her parents are not against her habitual marijuana smoking. “My mom knows that I smoke. I’ve smoked with her before, I’m not sure if my dad does. I don’t think he’d care too much. He’s given my sister weed before for her eating disorder, so I think he sees it as harmless,” said Johnson.

The Pew Research Center also estimates that approximately 58 percent of people under the age of 30 believe that the use of marijuana should be legal. States that allow recreational marijuana are Alaska, California, Colorado, Oregon, Massachusetts, Nevada and Washington. “Colorado has money (coming in) hand over fist, and Illinois, which is one of the most corrupt states in America, is like that aging politician who won’t get hip with the times, it’s pretty pathetic,” said Johnson.

DePaul University senior, Andrew Keller, believes that marijuana should be legalized for its health benefits. “I think it should be legalized because it helps with stress and, in some cases, physical issues. I’ve been smoking for four years now. I smoke at my apartment and pay $40 a month for my weed. I usually use a bong or a piece,” said Keller.

Possessing or cultivating marijuana plants in Illinois is a crime, and the penalties vary depending on the number of plants that are being grown. Growing up to five plants is considered a class A misdemeanor. This can result in up to one year in prison, or a fine of $2,500, and sometimes both. Johnson is currently growing one plant.

DePaul senior, Chuck Kaminski, believes that marijuana will continue to have an unfairly negative stigma attached to it, and believes that alcohol is no different from marijuana. “‘Drug’ is an umbrella term. The adverse effects of the plant have been widely over-exaggerated by many groups, and it should, at the very least, be recognized officially for its natural medicinal properties. I’m saying, people don’t call the person behind a bar a drug dealer, but that’s what he/she is and what they do.”

Johnson is aware of the criminal ramifications of growing weed, yet does not live in constant fear. She also knows the value of the cash crop and, like most other small businesses, has been hit hard with the stagnant economy. “I’m not afraid of being caught. Someone was just murdered a mile away from here, so I think the cops have better things to do then sniff out my pot.”

Johnson is currently a philosophy major, with plans to attend law school. She will continue to raise her plants, and has considered baking marijuana edibles. Her co-worker recently introduced her to cannabutter-infused Fruity Pebble Rice Krispies treats. She has zero plans of selling her plants or her edibles. Johnson will continue inhaling the positive vibes and transcend into a calmer realm. “It’s super cathartic to pack a bong and smoke your troubles away. It’s a social lubricant, but less harmful than alcohol for sure.”

Johnson, a proud Bernie Sanders supporter and environmentalist, strongly believes that marijuana should be legalized, primarily for medicinal purposes. Johnson endured anxiety and depression her sophomore year of high school. However, her’s wasn’t the typical condition of teen angst and rebellion. Johnson had sought help from a psychologist and was prescribed Valium. “Valium made me feel like I was moving through pudding, and you’re just super placid,” said Johnson. After two years, and failed attempts with four different psychologists, Johnson tried marijuana. She found it extremely holistic and conducive to maintaining her mental health. “I used to be more anxious, and I still am to a degree, but weed definitely has allowed me to slow down and think things through.  It has helped me adopt a more ‘chill’ mentality with life and the things I have an effect on. What I can change and what I can’t,” said Johnson.

According to the Pew Research Center, 73 percent of Americans are in favor of legalizing marijuana, but only for medicinal purposes, and only if the drug is prescribed by a doctor. However, even those in favor worry about where the marijuana would be sold.  Another concern is the accessibility of marijuana for people who don’t have a medical need, but want to obtain it for recreational use.

Junior, Andrew Nuño, considers himself a strict law abiding citizen and student. He recently turned 21 years of age and had his first sip of real, legalized alcohol. Although he has never smoked cigarettes, or marijuana for that matter, he still believes that it should be legalized. “I have never smoked and don’t find the need to smoke. I would only smoke marijuana out of curiosity, and only if it were legal.” said Nuño

As mentioned earlier, Johnson has been cultivating marijuana plants in the safety of her home for three months. The flowers have been blooming since March. Her eco-friendly grow room consists of LED lights, foil to help contain the heat and light, along with one small fan to circulate the air. She uses organic soil, light timers, plant food, a fan, and a temperature and humidity gauge. Johnson “googled” and compiled information from different “growers” websites before she began her garden. She began this operation with a similar set-up that she uses for her fruits and vegetables. She gathered some seed starter pods, made them moist, and placed the seeds in an old heating pad to keep the seeds warm, which makes them conducive for growth.  They get about 16-18 hours of light on, and then 6-8 hours for the vegetative growth stage. During the flowering stage, the plants will require 12/12 hours ratio of sunlight.

DePaul University Professor, Barbara Willard, believes that marijuana should be legalized, and feels that growing the plant is not harmful for the environment. “These types of crops, that are easily regrown, have less of an impact on the environment. However, it should be noted that in order to be truly environmentally sound, it should be grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers,” Willard stated.

Ironically, Johnson’s parents are not aware of the marijuana growth operation that is taking place in their own home. Johnson says that her parents are not against her habitual marijuana smoking. “My mom knows that I smoke. I’ve smoked with her before, I’m not sure if my dad does. I don’t think he’d care too much. He’s given my sister weed before for her eating disorder, so I think he sees it as harmless,” said Johnson.

The Pew Research Center also estimates that approximately 58 percent of people under the age of 30 believe that the use of marijuana should be legal. States that allow recreational marijuana are Alaska, California, Colorado, Oregon, Massachusetts, Nevada and Washington. “Colorado has money (coming in) hand over fist, and Illinois, which is one of the most corrupt states in America, is like that aging politician who won’t get hip with the times, it’s pretty pathetic,” said Johnson.

DePaul University senior, Andrew Keller, believes that marijuana should be legalized for its health benefits. “I think it should be legalized because it helps with stress and, in some cases, physical issues. I’ve been smoking for four years now. I smoke at my apartment and pay $40 a month for my weed. I usually use a bong or a piece,” said Keller.

Possessing or cultivating marijuana plants in Illinois is a crime, and the penalties vary depending on the number of plants that are being grown. Growing up to five plants is considered a class A misdemeanor. This can result in up to one year in prison, or a fine of $2,500, and sometimes both. Johnson is currently growing one plant.

DePaul senior, Chuck Kaminski, believes that marijuana will continue to have an unfairly negative stigma attached to it, and believes that alcohol is no different from marijuana. “‘Drug’ is an umbrella term. The adverse effects of the plant have been widely over-exaggerated by many groups, and it should, at the very least, be recognized officially for its natural medicinal properties. I’m saying, people don’t call the person behind a bar a drug dealer, but that’s what he/she is and what they do.”

Johnson is aware of the criminal ramifications of growing weed, yet does not live in constant fear. She also knows the value of the cash crop and, like most other small businesses, has been hit hard with the stagnant economy. “I’m not afraid of being caught. Someone was just murdered a mile away from here, so I think the cops have better things to do then sniff out my pot.”

Johnson is currently a philosophy major, with plans to attend law school. She will continue to raise her plants, and has considered baking marijuana edibles. Her co-worker recently introduced her to cannabutter-infused Fruity Pebble Rice Krispies treats. She has zero plans of selling her plants or her edibles. Johnson will continue inhaling the positive vibes and transcend into a calmer realm. “It’s super cathartic to pack a bong and smoke your troubles away. It’s a social lubricant, but less harmful than alcohol for sure.”

Exhibit Body Art

Tramp Stamp, body symmetry, her ink, her canvas, and her unique story. Puncturing her pale skin with the injection of a solid needle, at the speed of 50 to 3000 times per minute, is a painless normality for college junior Sam Bara. What began as a curiosity transitioned to a means of self-preservation and a stabilizer for her eating disorder, Anorexia.

   Anorexia is an eating disorder consisting of severe weight loss due to starvation, which is self-induced by the patient because of a distorted body image. This mental disorder has the highest fatality rate of all eating disorders.

Bara is described by her friends and colleagues as reserved, artistic, and mostly introverted. She began her tattoo collection at the age of 23, which is considered a late start by most tattoo aficionados. “Had I had a job and car in high school, I would have attained so many tattoos. It also didn’t help that I didn’t even have a fake I.D,” said Bara.

Growing up in a liberal and open environment, Bara was surrounded by family members that accumulated tattoos. Her father has three small tattoos referencing baseball, and her aunt has a large dragon tattoo that shields her entire backside. As a child, Bara was always fascinated by tattoos. They were always a future endeavor that Bara believed she would dabble with.

What followed was an insidious eating disorder that has consumed her life from the age of thirteen. “I was getting bullied pretty bad in the seventh grade. It went from kids saying, “Oh you’re so skinny, to “Oh, you’re so anorexic.’ I began starving myself,  partly to be skinny, but mainly to punish myself,” said Bara.

According to the Pew Research Center Study, close to 40 percent of the population of people, aged 18-29, in the United States, have tattoos. What used to be considered self-destructive, a job stopper, trashy, and modern day social branding, is now an integral part of a liberal pilgrimage for a society that craves freedom and individuality.

   Millennials, people born after 1980 and before 2000, are described by demographers and sociologist as trendsetters, over sharers, entitled, and addicted to tattoos. Millennials are also entrenched in a dark age where social media is the norm, and everything about one’s life is documented and deeply examined by the entire world. According to the American Psychological Association, millennials face more anxiety and stress than any other generation, thus far. The source for this anxious generation is entering a difficult job market, paying off student loans and the pressure to have life sorted out.

Bara has seven tattoos and will continue to capture more. She has a large octopus on her shoulder, a sea bottle on her forearm, the word “Veritas” on her wrist, a fairy on the side of her hip, a seahorse on her thigh, a ghost behind her ear, and she recently added “David Meowie” a cat tattoo to commemorate the deceased singer, David Bowie, on the back of her neck.

Bara is not concerned about facing discrimination in the workforce when she graduates as an English major. She currently works as a massage therapist. “At the spa where I work,  there’s a running job that you need to have tattoos to work there because almost every therapist has at least one,” said Bara

However for junior Madelyn Wodarski, placement and the aesthetic of a tattoo is crucial.  She currently has four dainty tattoos and will continue to gather more dainty tattoos.  “I’m not a fan of sleeve tattoos or hand or face tattoos. I hate portrait tattoos because they always look creepy and they never look like the person. Tattoos are still looked down by some people,” said Wodarski

DePaul senior Mara Richtman has five tattoos, and believes that tattoos are a form of pure self-expression that people shouldn’t comment on. “I think some tattoos can be trashy, but it’s not fair to generalize, nor is it fair to judge a tattoo you might think is tacky that someone got for a reason that meant something important enough for them to put if on their body forever,” said Richtman.

Bara, like many millenials, has three more years to continue to receive health insurance coverage under her parents through Obamacare. In order to make an appointment for the doctor’s office, Bara has to receive her insurance card from her parents, and notify her parents of any treatment she is receiving. Bara’s family is not aware of her eating disorder.

“I describe it (anorexia) as a volcano. It can be dormant for a year, then it get’s triggered. I can go years and be fine, and then something happens and I will starve myself,” said Bara.

Becoming branded by art has turned into a coping mechanism for Bara’s eating disorder. “It wasn’t until after I got my first tattoo that I realized what they were going to do for me. Tattoos won’t cure me, but they have helped a lot. Seeing myself covered in artwork makes me feel beautiful, and helps when I feel I might fall back into bad eating habits,” said Bara.

Bara has never faced discrimination for her tattoos and does not plan on getting any removed. She is aware that the process of removing tattoos is more dangerous and painful than receiving them. “If I don’t like a tattoo, I’ll get it covered. My tattoos are not offensive. I get compliments on my ink all the time,” said Bara.

 

DePaul freshmen Alex Corley  has two dainty tattoos. She views tattoos and piercings as art forms, and believes that negative tattoo stigmas are diminishing. “My first job was at a corporate bank as a teller. In my interview I had my nose piercings, my ear piercings, and my wrist tattoo was exposed. I still got the job,” said Corley

Bara considers herself a tattoo addict as she has attained all seven tattoos in less than two- and-a -half years. She has thought about getting a “sleeve” of tattoos, or being entirely covered on one or both arms.

DePaul freshman Amanda Simmons believes that the climate on tattoos is drastically changing, and that people will continue to get tattooed and not conform to the “real world” “I can see myself becoming addicted to tattoos, so I wait six months in between before I decided on anything. Any body modification can be addictive,” said Simmons.

Bara is currently battling anorexia and is seeking help and support from her friends. Her anorexia flares up when she is having a difficult time or is under severe stress. She is on a wait list for a non-profit eating disorder program in Chicago. “My eating disorder is not something that I want to share with my family. My tattoos have helped me a lot. I don’t have to be skinny to be pretty. Tattoos won’t cure me, but they help. Anytime that I want to starve myself I look at them and know that I don’t have to do that to myself”.

DACA Recipient Here To Stay

Guzzling cheap beer in red solo cups, postponed college visits, and driving home from the DMV. Foreign milestones that Margarita Silva missed. When most of her peers were drinking and cheering at football games, Silva was scrubbing toilets, washing dishes, and removing trash from the homes of the elite. Vacuuming bedrooms that were bigger than her entire home filled her high school memories. “Cuando comenzo la tos?” “When did the cough begin?” She was translating doctor appointments from English to Spanish for her parents, babysitting her younger brother, all the while avoiding deportation from the place she has always called home. These were the concerns of, then, 18-year-old Silva. Due to her undocumented status in the United States, she wasn’t able to receive financial assistance, loans for college, or even apply for jobs.

Margarita Silva is one of the 800,000 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients who is trying to find a place in Trump’s America. DACA was a temporary amnesty policy, created in the Obama era, in 2012, to protect the children of immigrants. Created by the Secretary of Homeland Security, DACA has allowed individuals who entered the United States as minors to remain in the country illegally, and receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation. Additionally, it allows recipients to obtain work permits, social security numbers, and protection for all immigrants ages 15-31.

Longtime rival of DACA, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, declared the end of DACA on September 5, 2017. Sessions strongly believes that immigrants dislodge jobs for Americans, and that the White House has a legal and moral duty to push for stronger border enforcements. Sessions promoted the “America First” agenda during Trump’s campaign. Americans that compete with immigrants for jobs are those without a high school diploma, are unskilled, or poor. Unmoved by the plight of DACA recipients, Sessions has stated, “This does not mean they are bad people, or that our nation disrespects or demeans them in any way,” Mr. Sessions said. “It means we are properly enforcing our laws.”

DePaul alumni, Maria Bondar, is a strong supporter of DACA. Bondar was born in the Ukraine, and understands the hardships that DACA students have to endure in a new country. Bondar was bullied in elementary school for having a thick accent, and has vivid memories of being a lonely seven-year-old. “Kids were mean, but I picked up English pretty quick,” said Bondar. Some of Bondar’s closest friends are undocumented. One is from Mexico, and the other is from Pakistan. “If my friends were to get deported, they would get sent to a country that they don’t know. They don’t even think of themselves as not Americans. We cannot end Dreamer protection,” said Bondar.

Reminiscing about her years at Barrington High School is bittersweet for Silva. When other students bragged of attaining a driver’s permit, Silva was tormented by whether her peers or teachers would report her, regarding her status. “In high school I struggled,” she says. “I couldn’t do Driver’s Ed. It was mandatory. I took the class, but I couldn’t drive. I didn’t have a social security number, so I couldn’t get a permit. The teachers knew why I couldn’t do the driving portion, but didn’t say anything.”

 

Silva immigrated to the United States with her mother, just days from her first birthday, from Juarez, Mexico. She entered the United States with her mother, aunt, two younger cousins and grandmother, on a tourist visa. In total, there were six people compressed inside a small, hot car. Food was scarce, and it had to be divided into small portions throughout the trip. During her crossing into El Paso, Texas, Silva, and her younger cousins, were smuggled in under the car seat. “We had to make it seem like we were only traveling to El Paso, and then coming back to Mexico. We didn’t take anything with us. We just drove all the way to Illinois,” said Silva.

Silva has little recollection of her journey to the United States. Her mother only discusses how silent Margarita and her cousins were, underneath the car seat. However, Silva won’t forget the sacrifices her grandmother also had to make. “My grandma had to trade her jewelry for money along the way, to get money for gas,” said Silva.

Foes of DACA professed that the policy is unconstitutional, after Barack Obama created the unilateral amnesty. These opponents also believe that DACA encourages more illegal border movements, and decreases job opportunities for Americans. According to the Pew Research Center, 79.4% of DACA recipients are from Mexico, with El Salvador at 3.7%, and Guatemala at 2.6%.

Republican and DePaul Alumni, Edward Vesely, considers himself an “America First” nationalist, and believes in maintaining and enforcing a comprehensive immigration policy that works for our culture, our protection and our economy. “I believe that we should enforce the laws that have already been enacted to maintain a legal immigration program, protect our borders (Canadian and Mexican), standardize on the English language, and encourage one vibrant culture that’s compromised on a mosaic of people.” Vesely believes that DACA recipients should not be punished for the actions of their parents. “I would not deport these children, but I would also not allow them to become citizens unless they follow a legal path to citizenship that, first, needs to be defined and enacted into the law,” said Vesely.

Once Silva’s relatives settled into Illinois, they promptly looked for jobs, and began navigating their new lives in America. Silva and her younger cousins were placed under their grandmother’s care while their mothers worked. The children learned English from watching American cartoons. Silva’s mother worked cleaning houses, and her father worked as a farm maintenance worker.

When several of Silva’s high school peers were working for fast-food chains or working in retail, Silva worked cleaning houses with her mother. Driving from house to house, and carrying cleaning supplies was the daily ritual. Clocking in twenty hours a week for ten dollars in cash was good pay for Silva, at the time. Silva and her mother risked driving without a driver’s license for years. “My mom was always very scared. I wasn’t as much (on driving). I would get nervous when a cop would be driving behind me, but my mom would panic. I couldn’t legally work anywhere. I babysat, and worked for money under the table,” said Silva.

After graduating from Barrington High School in 2010, Silva had no savings, and zero options for college. Without a social security number, she was unable to apply for financial aid, or receive loans. She attended community college to pursue a Massage Therapy course. She researched the trade, and was set on it. Her objective was to attain fast money, and contribute to her household. “I took a pre-course, an 8 hour class, for Massage Therapy. It cost my parents $350 dollars. I spoke to the guidance counselor and told her I didn’t have a social (security number). I asked her if it would be okay to pursue this degree, or if I would have any issues. She gave me the okay, and I proceeded.”

Silva passed the Massage Therapy class with a perfect score, and was told that, in order to finish signing up for the rest Massage Therapy courses, she would need a social security number. Feeling defeated and frustrated, Silva continued to assist her mother in the maintenance field, and babysat for a wealthy couple.

Opponents of DACA want to enforce the implemented immigration law to hold American jobs first, and secure America’s safety. The opponents also want immigrants to support themselves, and contribute to this country. According to the Pew Research Center, immigrant workers remain in low paying, and low skilled occupations such as farming, slaughterhouses, construction, and cleaning and maintenance. According to The Nation, undocumented immigrants generate 11.6 billion to the economy annually, and 3.6 billion in property taxes.

Silva benefited from DACA in 2012 and she was able to gain a work permit and a driver’s license. Silva felt as if she didn’t have to hide anymore or drive in fear when commuting. A wave of relief consumed her as her life was finally headed for a positive turn. “I stopped working with my mother. And I started working for a dental insurance company. I didn’t attend school because I was saving money for it,” said Silva.

DePaul Political Science Professor, Kathleen Arnold, believes that children of immigrants should not be punished for being brought to the United States. Arnold asks, “Are these young residents of our country who live with us, have studied here, served in the military, entitled to the protections of the state, or should they be subjected to, what the Supreme Court has recognized as, ‘a fate worse than death’…exile?”

Silva continued to work several clerical jobs, and assisted her parents with bills. In 2014, Silva married Miguel Espinoza, an American citizen. She met him on a church volunteer trip in New York. Silva traveled to New York that year to assist with the Jehovah’s Witnesses New World Headquarters set up. Silva is a devoted Jehovah’s Witness. During her visit, she met her now husband Miguel Espinoza. “After dating Miguel for two months, I told him that I was born in Mexico. I wanted him to know that I wasn’t trying to use him. I asked him if my status was a deal breaker for him,” said Silva. Miguel was also was surprised by her status, as many people are, but wasn’t disinterested in the relationship.

In the time that Miguel dated Margarita, he never thought about how difficult it would be to date someone with an undocumented status. He never considered how much time and money would have to be invested. All he knew was that he loved Margarita. Miguel has family residing in Mexico that he hasn’t visited in years, and will not visit them without Margarita. “His family understands. His mom was in the same situation when she got married to his dad,” said Silva.

 

 

Beginning the tedious process for a green card was the next step in citizenship for Silva. She first had to find a way to attain “legal entry.” Under DACA, there was a permit called Advance Parole, which granted the opportunity to travel outside the U.S. This applies to recipients who want to work, attend school, or for an emergency, such as the death of a relative, and can only be used once. Silva applied for this parole in April, 2016, and was approved September, 2016. After this approval, Silva was able to start the process for her green card. She had to fill out five applications. With the applications also came the medical examination and passport pictures.

Ten months later, Silva was married. Silva moved to California to be with her husband’s family, and now works at a car dealership as an office administrator. “When I had my ID’s checked through E-Verify, my co-worker was shocked that I was undocumented. Mainly because I don’t have an accent” Said Silva.

Silva, being recently married and without a college education, was financially strapped and frustrated on the costly DACA process. The entire cost can range from $10,000 to $15,000. This covers the naturalization application fee of $595, application for employment authorization card of $380 and a travel document can cost $360. This does not include an immigration attorney’s fees. An immigration attorney can charge $100-300 per hour. Silva has spent $3,000 on her application.

Silva, running out of resources and time, didn’t dwell on her economic strain. She “googled” how to process a DACA application and keeps herself informed on the changing laws as well as following the Trump administration’s next moves.

On Facebook, Silva followed a group called Adjustment of Status. This is a group consisting of successful DACA recipients and DACA allies. These DACA recipients are paving the way and assisting other students with resources, scholarships and immigration lawyers who offer pro-bono work. Through this Facebook group, Silva has received assistance on her application. This group consists of 11,000 members. The private group is currently closed on Facebook.

Since the cancellation of DACA, only some recipients can reapply for it. A DACA recipient can apply one last time if the expiration date is before May 2018. For Silva, it is too late, her opportunity expired September, 2017.

Since the presidential election, and now with the cancellation of DACA, Silva has admitted that she now lives in an oppressive environment. Silva was at a doughnut shop with her husband when she endured the following remarks. “I wonder, if I wear my ICE t-shirt, would this place loose it’s customers?” The comment was made by a male customer at the doughnut shop. He was sitting next to his friend, and staring directly at Silva and her husband. “The owner heard the comment that this man said to me and said nothing,” said Silva. Silva let the comment go and said nothing. She feels that this discrimination will only get worse. “This is happening more. I can’t remember ever being judged as much as I do now.”

Silva is anxiously waiting to receive her green card. She is is hoping to receive it in the next six months. Silva cannot renew DACA and is left feeling vulnerable and exposed. Currently she is waiting to received her green card. “There’s a very slim chance it won’t go through. The only reason for that not to happen is if they think our marriage is fraudulent,” said Silva

Silva has faith that things will go in her favor. She knows the path to citizenship won’t be easy. She plans on returning to school and become a social worker. “I see people, children, that need help. People who have had a hard life because they have no one. I’m a big cry baby. I’m emotionally driven,” said Silva.

Silva like many other DACA recipients see the United States as their home. She has no memories of Mexico and her family and friends are residing in Illinois. “People are always so shocked when I tell them that I’m not “American” because I don’t have a thick accent, and I grew up here. This is my home.”

 

 

Chicago’s First Vegan Bakery

 Chicagoan’s will be introduced to the first 100% vegan bakery Pie, Pie My Darling which will open up this summer 2017 in Lakeview. From classic Funfetti cakes to Lemon Meringue pies, Pie, Pie My Darling offers every sweet diabetic delicacy for vegans and omnivores.

  Waking up at 3 in the morning and baking 40-50 vegan pastries is anything but foreign for baker Heather Bondine-Lederman. To set herself  up for success, she blasts a punk rock playlist on Spotify and constantly checks her Instagram account for orders or she uploads pictures of her whimsical pastries.

One Instagram post reads, “Surprise! Our Vegan Funfetti Cake is now available by the slice at both @handlebarchicago & @kitchen17chicago all month long! Get at it babes! #vegancakeporn.

Photo Courtesy: Heather Bondine-Lederman. Double Stacked Cookie Monster Cake. Instagram: @piepiemydarling

For the vegan introvert, social media is the key to communication. Time is always scarce for  Bondine-Lederman as she usually clocks in 80 hours a week and works independently. “I’m a very independent person and prefer to do things on my own. I get lots of offers from people who want to work with me, but at this time I’m actually so busy that I don’t have time to go about doing the whole hiring process”. Said Bondine-Lederman.

  Bondine-Lederman’s menu consists of  21 different cakes, 17 pies, variety of cookies and brownies on her menu. Whether she is filling or smoothing vanilla buttercream on a layered cookie cake, or adding fresh fruit to her pies, each pastry is perfectly constructed and scrutinized.

  This past Valentine’s Day Bondine-Lederman created heart shaped sugar cookies with pink glazed frosting. Each cookie contained a white frosted reference to song or a movie. One of the sugar cookies read “as if” from the 90’s film Clueless.

Photo Courtesy: Heather Bondine-Lederman. Limited edition Valentine’s Day cookies. Phrases are referenced from music and movies. Instagram: piepiemydarling

  Bondine-Lederman is typically booked 1-2 months in advance and her favorite item to bake is her Funfetti Cake. “It’s my top seller and it’s super fun and easy to make, and it’s so nostalgic. Brings back childhood memories.” Said Bondine-Lenderman.

   60% of Bondine-Lederman’s customers are vegan and 40% are non-vegan. Bondine-Lederman’s goal is to make desserts that are satisfying for everyone, not just vegans. It brings a smile to her face when non-vegan customers reach out and say that they prefer her treats over other dairy and egg-filled sweets they’ve had.

Photo Courtesy: Heather Bondine-Lederman. Heather Bondine-Lederman guest baker for WGN Web Desk. Instagram: @piepiemydarling

  Bondine-Lederman selected the name Pie, Pie My Darling to reference the late 70’s horror punk band the Misfits. Her inspiration comes from their popular hit Die, Die My Darling. Her instagram page is also quoted, “sweet pies for the misfit soul”. “Sweet pies for the misfit soul was my little shout out to them (Misfits) for inspiring the name. I also think that vegans inherently are misfits, they are outsiders and go against the grain, so it fits”. Said Bondine-Lederman.

  Bondine-Lederman has been a devout vegan for eight years and is excited to have pastry options for vegans. “At first it was pretty hard to hard to find vegan options but in the last 4-5 years there have been so many advances for vegans in the Chicago area. There are tons of local vegan businesses now, and lots of non-vegan restaurants that now offer vegan items on the menu too, so it’s never a struggle for me to find things to eat”. Said Bondine-Lederman.  

 

  Depaul Communication studies professor Barb Willard has been vegetarian since 1989 but considers herself a vegan. “I would consider visiting Pie, Pie My Darling. I don’t buy any dairy or egg products for my own home and I mostly eat at home”.

  Popular chains that offer vegan and vegetarian baked goods in Chicago are Whole foods, Chicago Diner and Native Foods Cafe.

Sophomore Maeve Sheridan has been a devout vegan for three years after she was diagnosed as lactose intolerant. “I mostly followed the vegan diet for health reasons, but as my knowledge around the topic grew, it became more of a lifestyle for me. The environmental impact of animal products are much more important”. Said Sheridan.

Sheridan heard about Pie, Pie My Darling opening up in an article on FaceBook. “Pie, Pie My Darling sounds awesome to me. Bakery items are rarely vegan so it’ll be nice to have some options”.

  Bondine-Lenderman loves being her own boss and loves the ultimate artistic and creative freedom that she has. She plans on emulating rockabilly and punk decor and wants to add a 1950’s retro feel to her bakery with diner tables and neon signs. She plans on expanding and opening more vegan bakeries in the future. “My baked goods still contain all the sugary goodness that you’d expect in a dessert-just no eggs or dairy, which really don’t provide much flavor in the first place. Keep an open mind and remember that food is food, and if it tastes good, who the hell cares if it’s vegan”. Said Bondine-Lenderman.

Pie Pie My Darling will open August of this year and will be located at 613 W. Briar Place, Chicago.

Photo Courtesy: Heather Bondine-Lenderman. Everthing she bakes is 100% vegan. Instagram: @piepiemydarling

DePaul The Commuter School

According to the DePaul Division of Student Affairs nearly 90 percent of DePaul University’s total student body commutes or lives off campus. DePaul commuter students face delays in trains, exhaust and an increase in monthly tickets from Metra. High school students receive discounts on all train tickets while college students have to pay the high fare. DePaul senior Jessica Carapia commutes from Barrington Tuesdays and Thursdays for her four classes. She leaves her house at 5:5 to catch her morning 6:15 train. Daily parking is three dollars. Carapia only stays on campus if she has to meet with students for group projects or to attend meetings with professors. She is usually home at 7:15 at night. This has become her long and tedious routine. Commuting makes it difficult for students to be involved in clubs, or sports at DePaul. Carapia uses her hour train ride home to catch up on sleep or to get caught up with her homework assignments. When Metra has any delays or accidents she has to email her professors ahead of time or call her friends to get her a ride into the Loop campus. Metra prices will continue to increase as they plan to renovate. Carapia currently pays 218 dollars for her monthly train ride. “I’m planning on getting an internship this summer and then plan to find an apartment soon. I can’t take this expensive and long commute anymore. Sometimes I get in a bad mood when I get home.” Said Carapia.

Self Care- Finding Time For You

“Time is money.” “Routine kills.” “I’m burned out.” “I’ll catch up on sleep tomorrow.” “Red bull saves the day.” Collective words from overworked DePaul University students. Self-care, a trendy new movement that relieves students from their chaotic lives and reminds them to engage with the mind, body and soul, may be new age mumbo-jumbo for some, or the perfect cure for a life without worry. Graduate student, Nicole Cash, has joined the self-care revolution with zero shame. Cash’s self-care routine begins at 9am with a healthy breakfast consisting of egg whites, veggies and avocado on toast. She sets enough time aside not only to fuel her body, but to construct the perfect hair, makeup and outfit. “I would define self-care as just doing the things that make you happy and also keeping yourself healthy; mentally, physically and emotionally.”

According to the ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America), “30% of college students have stated stress as the negative component for poor academic performance. Approximately 85% of college students interviewed have disclosed feelings of overwhelmedness by everything that they had to do within the past year.”

“A woman is helpless only when her nail polish is drying,” a “Love trumps hate,” are some of the mantras on Cash’s Instagram. Cash acknowledges the negative backlash that Millennials are branded with. “Millennials can sometimes be a little self-absorbed and entitled. I think older generations would kind of look down on this or see this (self-care) as pampering or something that has to be earned.”

And let’s face it, we kind of are. Today’s youth could probably not survive getting up at 4am to milk the cows and bring in the harvest. However, the modern world inflicts an entirely new set of pressures and stresses on all people, not just the young. People are living longer but not necessarily better. Self-care is essential if we’re hanging around longer. I don’t want to live to be 100 if my health sucks.

As stated by Forbes Magazine, self-improvement is a ten billion dollar per year business in the U.S. However, self-care continues to flourish in this anemic economy. Cash splurges on getting her nails done every two weeks, but Zumba dominates her self-care package.  She has been doing it for five years.  “I like to do Zumba, go for long walks, explore different, more unique neighborhoods of Chicago, work on my blog and of course, things like hanging out with my friends, boyfriend, watching Netflix and going out dancing”.

DACA Recipient Resists Trump

At age 9, L.O had to memorize an important speech that would guarantee her safety and admission into the United States from Mexico. She set out on a bus with her sister and traveled for four days to be reunited with her parents into her new home in America. L.O is one of the 750,000 DACA (Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals) recipients in the United States. Advocates of this program are intently scrutinizing every word that comes out of President Trump’s mouth.

DACA, created by our previous president, Barack Obama on June 15, 2012, protects undocumented immigrants who entered this country as children. Under this parole, these individuals are able to attain a work authorization permit, a social security card, and in the state of Illinois they have the opportunity to apply for a state ID and/or driver’s license.

Trump’s belligerent rhetoric has targeted undocumented immigrants and his supporters view immigration issues as a high priority.  With a simple signature, Trump has the executive power to send hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants back to their native countries.

L.O paid 300 dollars to borrow her cousin’s birth certificate to use as a form of valid identification. L.O said, “I had to memorize a speech just in case I was questioned by border patrols at checkpoints. I had to remember that my name was Janet Gutierrez. I had to remember the date of birth on the certificate and her (Janet’s) parent’s names.”

Fast forward, L.O is now 25 years of age and works in the logistics department at Capsonic Group Inc. and is currently enrolled in community college. She views the “American Dream” as something mythical. “There is no such thing as the American Dream, however this country has given me opportunities with school. I would never have those opportunities in Mexico. In Mexico, if you don’t have a career or come from a family of money, then you don’t have a chance of becoming anything.” L.O said.

Chicago, and other cities across the United States, have declared themselves as sanctuaries. When headlines came out that Trump would deport 3 million immigrants living in the U.S, fears hit home for undocumented college students.

L.O plans to obtain an associates degree by 2018. She is staying hopeful for her future and does not feel fearful in Trump’s America. “Trump has said he will not do anything with DACA, so hopefully he keeps his promise and we can continue taking advantage of the opportunity DACA gives us”.

DACA Recipient Resists Trump

At age 9, L.O had to memorize an important speech that would guarantee her safety and admission into the United States from Mexico. She set out on a bus with her sister and traveled for four days to be reunited with her parents into her new home in America. L.O is one of the 750,000 DACA (Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals) recipients in the United States. Advocates of this program are intently scrutinizing every word that comes out of President Trump’s mouth.

DACA, created by our previous president, Barack Obama on June 15, 2012, protects undocumented immigrants who entered this country as children. Under this parole, these individuals are able to attain a work authorization permit, a social security card, and in the state of Illinois they have the opportunity to apply for a state ID and/or driver’s license.

Trump’s belligerent rhetoric has targeted undocumented immigrants and his supporters view immigration issues as a high priority.  With a simple signature, Trump has the executive power to send hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants back to their native countries. 

L.O paid 300 dollars to borrow her cousin’s birth certificate to use as a form of valid identification. L.O said, “I had to memorize a speech just in case I was questioned by border patrols at checkpoints. I had to remember that my name was Janet Gutierrez. I had to remember the date of birth on the certificate and her (Janet’s) parent’s names.”

Fast forward, L.O is now 25 years of age and works in the logistics department at Capsonic Group Inc. and is currently enrolled in community college. She views the “American Dream” as something mythical. “There is no such thing as the American Dream, however this country has given me opportunities with school. I would never have those opportunities in Mexico. In Mexico, if you don’t have a career or come from a family of money, then you don’t have a chance of becoming anything.” L.O said.

Chicago, and other cities across the United States, have declared themselves as sanctuaries. When headlines came out that Trump would deport 3 million immigrants living in the U.S, fears hit home for undocumented college students.

L.O plans to obtain an associates degree by 2018. She is staying hopeful for her future and does not feel fearful in Trump’s America. “Trump has said he will not do anything with DACA, so hopefully he keeps his promise and we can continue taking advantage of the opportunity DACA gives us”.