Issue 21, January 20, 2020 - Grand Valley Lanthorn

Close to Home G R A N D VA L L E Y L A N T H O R N

Vantubbergen grows with GVSU Basketball

Alumna spurs international discussion following harassment from Michigan senator GOVERNANCE | A2

Dramaturgy student works on new GRCT production THEATER | A7

M O N D A Y, J A N U A RY 2 0, 2 02 0 // VO L . 5 4 N O. 2 1

@ GV L A N T H O R N

LANTHORN.COM

A2 | NEWS NEWS BRIEFS GV OFFERS FREE ULTRASOUND SCANS FOR FUTURE MOTHERS According to Tatyana Beaves, Program Director of the Abdomen and Obstetrics Gynecology department at Grand Valley State University, the school will now offer free ultrasound scans for moms-to-be.

The requirements for the pregnant volunteers are as follows: a copy of your complete, 20-week ultrasound report and a signed liability waiver that can be downloaded from the GVSU website. In return, the university is able to provide students in the sonography program the ability to gain more experience.

Participants will be scanned in the privacy of the GVSU ultrasound laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment. Ultrasound students will perform the scan under the direct supervision of faculty, all of whom are registered sonographers. Each volunteer experience will last approximately one hour.

AUSTRALIA WELCOMES RAIN WITH OPEN ARMS, BUT THE DAMAGE IS DONE The Associated Press reports that Australia’s forests are burning at a rate unmatched in modern times, and scientists say the landscape is being permanently altered as a warming climate brings profound changes to the island continent. Since September, the fires have killed 28 people and burned more than 2,600 houses.

Forests can shift locations over time. However, that typically unfolds over thousands of years, not the decades over which the climate has been warming. Due to these drastic fires, the damage that has been done is irreversible. Thankfully, it started raining last week, putting out most of the fires. Now, Australia is focused on recovery.

DGVSU NAMES NEW ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR BUSINESS AND FINANCE On Jan. 16, Greg Sanial, vice president for Finance and Administration, announced the appointment of Craig Wieschhorster as the university’s new associate vice president for Business and Finance. Wieschhorster previously served as a captain and commanding officer in the United States Coast Guard for 25 years in various positions involving leadership, budgeting, resource management, performance metrics and operations.

“I am certain that Craig’s leadership and experience will be a great fit and a tremendous asset for the business and finance team, and the entire university, as we move forward supporting President Mantella’s vision and new initiatives,” Sanial said.

The university was assisted by the firm DHR International throughout the search and interview process. Wieschhorster replaces Brian Copeland, who is retiring Jan. 30.

Copeland earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Western Michigan University and is also a certified public accountant. Prior to joining GVSU in 2007, he served as director of finance and administration for Display Pack, Inc. of Grand Rapids, with broad leadership experience in purchasing, risk management, human resources, quality control, computer services and logistics.

“Brian’s 13 years of service to Grand Valley have been nothing short of remarkable,” Sanial said.

“We are thankful for his steadfast dedication and support to GVSU over the years.”

A retirement celebration for Copeland will take place Jan. 30 in the Kirkhof Center..

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

GOVERNANCE

Alumna spurs international discussion following harassment from Michigan senator

BY NICK MORAN EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

Grand Valley State University alumna Allison Donahue, a reporter for the Michigan Advance, hustled to interview Michigan Sen. Peter Lucido when he responded with a comment that would leave her speechless. Surrounded by male students from his high school alma mater, De La Salle Collegiate, Lucido said that the boys could “have a lot of fun” with her.

But what is making international headlines is Donahue’s response to the senator, both by defending herself in-person and her following column for the Advance titled, “I tried to interview Sen. Peter Lucido. He told me a group of schoolboys ‘could have a lot of fun’ with me,” which holds Lucido accountable for his actions. Since its release, Donahue and her self-advocacy has made its way to publications like the BBC, BuzzFeed News, the Detroit Free Press and more.

Following the release of the piece, Donahue took to Twitter to share her thoughts where she explained that she was proud to have been able to stand up for herself when she returned to Lucido, which is something she wouldn’t have done in the past.

“I didn’t want to stand up for myself after that,” Donahue tweeted. “It’s awkward and in rare cases is it ever taken well and the comments apologized for. But I’ve stayed silent before.”

In an interview with the Lanthorn, Donahue said she expected her piece to gain some traction around Lansing, but the attention it gained from the international community was surprising. The views on her piece and subsequent coverage by oth-

DYNAMIC DUO: GVSU alumna Allison Donahue poses with journalism professor Jeff Kelly Lowenstein. Donahue worked with the professor prior to going viral. COURTESY | JEFF KELLY LOWENSTEIN

er media outlets has created a conversation that has become very personal to Donahue.

“The emotions change every minute. I’m thankful for the support I’ve received, I’m saddened by the amount of people who have resonated with it though... This doesn’t go viral because it’s absurd. It goes viral because it’s common and that is a really hard thing to take in, but it also shows the strength and solidarity that is resonating across the world.”

With that, Donahue said her story provided her with a wave of support from reporters, readers and peers alike. The pleasantly surprising side of this was that these messages didn’t just come from female reporters, but from all

sorts of people in every field.

“I am surprised by how different (support) has looked in every way,” Donahue said. “I’ve gotten so many female reporters who have reached out and said, ‘Thank you. I’ve experienced the same thing. This has given me courage to speak up next time.’ But I’ve also gotten it from male reporters. I’ve gotten it from women in every field who have dealt with something like this. I’ve gotten it from men down in Tennessee who have 12-year-old daughters who it’s resonated for them.”

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

DEMOCRACY

GV senate members join student voter engagement task force

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS OFELLOWS@LANTHORN.COM

SIGN ME UP: Member of GVSU’s Student Senate encourages students to register to vote and engage with democracy. GVL | ALEXIS VELAZQUEZ

Throughout the year, GVSU Student Senate members work on solutions and advocacy for issues and initiatives both on and off campus. This year, one of those initiatives is the Collegiate Student Voter Task Force (CSVTF), formed by Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and her team. GVSU Student Senate President Eric-John Szczepaniak and fellow Senator William Thayer were appointed to the CSVTF by the Secretary and have been working on solutions to encourage civic engagement at GVSU and elsewhere.

The first of its kind, the nonpartisan task force seeks to improve voter engagement among young people and college students. It includes 32 students from 23 colleges, community colleges and universities throughout Michigan with hometowns across the state.

President Eric-John Szczepaniak says that he

joined the project to empower and educate others about voting.

“I have always been interested in empowering others to gain agency and ownership in their communities, and love to see others realize that they have vast potential to be a force for good and helping folks find their niche,” Szczepaniak said, “I applied for the CSATF because I wanted to be part of the solution and work toward overcoming barriers to civic engagement for young people.”

Historically, students in Michigan have faced significant barriers to voting and participated in elections at lower rates than other age groups. According to Michigan State University News, in 2016 the youth voter was at 43 percent.

Michigan has been seen fluctuating voter numbers among college age voters since 2012.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A3 | NEWS STATE LAW

CONTENTS GOVERNANCE

| A2

EDITORIAL

| A4

CAMPUS

| A6

THEATER

| A7

PROFILE

| A8-9

LANTHORN LIVE

| A10-11

M. BASKETBALL

| A12

W. BASKETBALL

| A13

HOCKEY

| A15

VOL. 54

NO. 21

Lan thorn EDITORIAL STAFF

Layout Editor VIVIANA RUBIO

Editor-in-Chief NICK MORAN Associate Editor AMY MCNEEL

Layout Designer KHOI TRAN PROMOTIONS

Associate Editor BRIANNE KERR News Editor SEAN CAUVET Sports Editor KELLEN VOSS Laker Life Editor YSABELA GOLDEN

Promotions Manager ALEX DAGASTINO ADVERTISING STAFF

Marijuana legalization hits Michigan, municipalities wait to opt in

BY AMY MCNEEL ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM

On Nov. 6, 2018, Michigan voters approved Proposal 1, thus decriminalizing cannabis for recreational use. That December, the law officially went into effect, meaning it was legal for Michiganders to possess and use marijuana for adult-use. However, during that time, the sale of adult-use marijuana was still illegal.

Finally, on Dec. 1, 2019, the sale of adult-use marijuana was legalized in Michigan. While this has been a big step for the cannabis industry, the process hasn’t been free of challenges.

“Right now, there are no municipalities in Ottawa County that have opted in to allow for adult-use,” said Jamie Cooper, founder of Cannabiz Connection. “I’m not surprised because there is a lot of struggles and challenges that come with being one of the first communities to opt into something that’s brand new.”

Cooper said that only a few municipalities in Ottawa County have opted in for medical use, but most have chosen to observe and taken the “wait-and-see” approach. Grand Haven is one of counties that has opted in for medical sales, with many residents hoping there will eventually be a transition into adult-use sales. Ultimately, municipalities have the final say.

“I think that’s the challenge we are fac-

Advertising Manager JESSE BECKER

Image Editor BENJAMIN HUNT

for their constituents.”

While not many municipalities have opted in yet for either medical or adult-use marijuana, Cooper believes they will start feeling the pressure to do so as other areas see increased tax revenue.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

New petition drive could lock in civil rights for LGBTQ Michiganders

Business Manager RACHEL RUTGETS Asst. Business Manager NEHEMIAH HUDGINS-LOPEZ

BY JANE JOHNSTON NEWS@LANTHORN.COM

At the Lanthorn, we strive to bring you the most accurate news possible. If we make a mistake, we want to make it right. If you find any errors in fact in the Lanthorn, let us know by calling 616-331-2464 or by emailing editorial@lanthorn.com.

The Grand Valley Lanthorn is published weekly by Grand Valley State University students 31 times a year. One copy of this newspaper is available free of charge to any member of the Grand Valley Community. For additional copies, at $1 each, please contact our business offices.

The Lanthorn is published on recycled paper and is printed with soy bean ink. This means that our newspaper is entirely compostable. Help us do our part to be kind to the environment by recycling or composting this newspaper after you enjoy reading it.

POSTMASTER: Please send form 3579 to: Grand Valley Lanthorn 0051 Kirkhof Center Grand Valley State University Allendale, MI 49401

ing right now is that municipalities have as much control as they do, and so these decisions are being made by elected officials who know nothing about this,” Cooper said.

“I think what’s important is that people who live in the communities, if they really want it in their communities, they need to be contacting their elected officials and letting them know that because these elected officials are supposed to be making decisions IDENTITY

BUSINESS STAFF

A&E Editor MARY RACETTE

UP IN SMOKE?: Despite the decriminalization of recreational marijuana for adults, the right to smoke recreationally is now in the hands of Michigan municipalities state-wide. COURTESY | LEAFLY.COM

RIGHTS FOR ALL: GVSU student Cameron Schultz stands with pride next to the Cook Carillon Tower by the Kirkhof Center. GVL | MICAH HILL

Fair and Equal Michigan launched a campaign this month that sought to amend the state’s civil rights law to include protections for the state’s LGBTQ community.

The proposal would expand the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act, which was originally enacted in 1976 and prohibited discrimination based on a number of identity factors including religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status and marital status. Although since then many cities across the state—including Grand Rapids—have passed local ordinances to protect their residents on the basis of sexual orientation, efforts statewide have historically failed.

The Michigan Civil Rights Commission officially began taking complaints of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in 2018, maintaining that LGBTQ discrimination was already prohibited under “sex” discrimination in the constitution.

If passed, Fair and Equal Michigan’s proposal would solidify these protections with explicitly language banning discrimination based on “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression.”

Marla Wick, the Associate Director of Grand Valley State University’s Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center, said that codifying these protections will expel uncertainty among those who do face this type of discrimination.

“The lack of state or federal-level protections means that LGBTQIA+ people who experience discrimination because of their LGBTQIA+ identity must seek recourse through the court system,” Wick said. “And results vary.”

Wick said that if nothing else, the campaign is a step in the right direction, especially in the eyes of GVSU students.

“The ongoing efforts to expand Elliot-Larsen are certainly reason for hope that positive change is coming,” Wick said.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

A4 | OPINION

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

By Katie Cussans

GVL EDITORIAL CARTOON

EDITORIAL

What is the media’s role in covering the government?

T

01/20/20

editorial@lanthorn.com

Lost in London: Lessons from studying abroad

BY MELISSA SHARAPATA SENIOR ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCE, SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY EMPHASIS EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

Today marks the first day of my study abroad program in London. I am taking the course International Aspects of Communication Disorders led by Michigan State University.

As the group heads back to our flat from an afternoon of exploring London, I think to myself, “I

want to stay in the city longer.”

So I quickly turn to my soon-tobe friend, just as we are about to scan our oasis card to enter the train station, “Melisa, do you want to stay and explore more?” To my surprise she says yes.

We leave the train station with adventure on our minds only to realize we have absolutely no idea where we are. In a city of 9 million people, it’s safe to say we are lost.

To top it off, neither of us have internet to look up directions and we don’t have an international phone plan to call anybody. What we do have is a trusty paper map.

We walk across the street to Victoria Embankment Gardens, and sit down on a bench to attempt to navigate a map. We spend a solid half hour trying to map our way to Buckingham Palace. “Okay I think I know where to go,” I tell Melisa with confidence, and we begin our journey to the Palace. Our first

step is to take a left on Savoy street, so we do. The next step is to take a left on Stand street, only when we look at the street signs there is no Strand street. We messed up.

“We can figure this out” Melisa says, “let’s ask her.”

“Excuse me,” I say to the girl walking by. Absolute silence. No eye contact. We are completely ignored. “Okay! Plan B: let’s get the map out again,” I suggest.

As we get out the map and replan our route we realize we went the complete opposite direction of the Palace. After 45 minutes of making wrong turns and using the map to correct ourselves, we finally find Buckingham Palace. We take our pictures of the Palace and start to leave, only to realize now we have to figure out how to get back to our flat.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

While corporate media goads progressive in-fighting for ratings, journalism suffers

BY DYLAN GROSSER JUNIOR MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM EDITORIAL@LANTHORN.COM

On Monday, Jan. 13, CNN choose to publish a story concerning Democratic

candidates Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren and a private December 2018 meeting between the two of them. The story alleged that in this meeting, Sanders told Warren he believed a woman could not win the presidency.

Sanders has completely denied CNN and Warren’s version of events, and not only that, but he in fact highlighted several key points which cast doubt on the reporting ethics of this story and underline an ongoing struggle for fairness in the press on his platform.

On women’s rights and advocacy, Sanders’ voting records are squeaky clean, but not only that, quickly after the CNN story broke, several videos circulated online of Sanders which showed him positively affirming women run-

ning for office, one of which from 1988 showing his viewpoint that he did indeed believe a woman could become president. And of course, it’s known that in 2015, Sanders encouraged Warren to run against Clinton, and her refusal is what led him to enter the 2016 race.

But what is most infuriating in this CNN story debacle is that despite this mountain of evidence showing Sanders being a staunch supporter of women’s rights throughout history, especially for women running for office, the CNN story utilizes only anonymous sources with unknown credibility and intent.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

he media is playing a larger role in the news world than just leading coverage. As readers can see on page two, Allison Donahue’s column on Michigan Sen. Peter Lucido has been attracting international attention because of the brave Grand Valley State University alum’s courage in calling out his harassment.

Looking on this page, columnist Dylan Grosser breaks down CNN’s role in creating controversy between Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Here, Grosser holds CNN to the fire, calling the outlet out for trying to boost ratings prior to the Democratic debate on their channel.

This brings into question: what is the media’s role in covering the government?

Many would say the news industry acts as a hitman, anxiously awaiting for officials to make mistakes so outlets can craft clickbait headlines and rake in views. The news only covers anger, negativity and scandal in politics, right?

That’s a stretch, and Donahue’s story outlines that the role of the media is in covering government controversy is to hold officials accountable for their actions as policy-makers, representatives and fellow humans.

While some outlets admittedly magnitate towards scandal, many simply are looking to provide valuable information to their constituents on their elected officials. If constituents choose to elect officials who speak to reporters and more in this fashion, at least they are informed in their decision.

Following Donahue’s piece, coverage of Lucido’s subsequent comments have outlined his initial doubling-down on his comments, followed by walking them back as a joke and, more recently, outright rejecting them.

Donahue has records of these conversations. She even wrote the story she initially questioned Lucido for below her column.

Donahue’s actions this week outline that while it may seem like journalists are view-hungry hitmen, they’re often not seeking to write an exposé, but to stand up for themselves and their profession, including maintaining a value on truth and fairness.

It is a journalists’ duty to produce and share important information. That being said, stories aren’t usually written about people who are simply doing what they are expected to do — aka their jobs — unless they are going above and beyond. This coverage is reserved for those who have a lasting impact on the communities in which they serve.

Ultimately, though, we don’t congratulate bartenders for pouring drinks, professors for teaching lessons or city officials for accurately representing their constituents unless their performance is exceptional and newsworthy. Otherwise, our headlines would read “Local business owner does their job.” That’s not news, and we all know it.

There is a lack of positive news stories about the government because journalists don’t report on officials who are doing their jobs properly — they report on officials who need to learn to do their jobs well.

GVL OPINION POLICY The goal of the Grand Valley Lanthorn’s opinion page is to act as a forum for public discussion, comment and criticism in the Grand Valley State University community. Student and columnist opinions published here do not necessarily reflect those of the paper as an entity.

The Lanthorn strives to be a safe vehicle for community discussion. With this in mind, the Lanthorn will not publish or entertain any forms of hate speech, but neither will it discriminate against any other views, opinions or beliefs. The content, information and views expressed are not approved by—nor do they necessarily represent those of—the university or its Board of Trustees, officers, faculty or staff.

Letters to the editor should include the author’s full name, relevant title and a headshot, along with a valid email address and phone number for confirming the identity of the author. Letters should be approximately 500-650 words in length, and they are not edited by the Lanthorn staff except to fix technical errors or to clarify.

Reader submissions on the opinion page appear as space permits.

To make a submission, email editorial@lanthorn.com or drop your submission off in person at:

0051 KIRKHOF CENTER GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY ALLENDALE, MI 49401 616-826-8276

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A5 | NEWS

GRAND RAPIDS

Indie Flea GR changes ownership, plans expansion

BY NATHAN SLAUER NSLAUER@LANTHORN.COM

One can never guess what goods they might discover at a flea market. Beeswax candles, hand-sewn pillows, or artisanal glassware — the possibilities never end.

For Indie Flea GR co-owners April Moayyer and Amanda Perry, that’s the point.

“Uniqueness is what we offer,” Moayyer said.

“You can buy a plaque from Hobby Lobby that everyone else has or request that someone living not very far away make something custom for you.”

Launched in 2017, Indie Flea GR provides a space for artists, craftspeople, and foodies to promote their small businesses and network with one another.

Every first Saturday of the month, over 45 vendors sell wares ranging from CBD products to rice packs at the Community Media Center Annex on Wealthy street from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Among the booths, one might encounter a homemade jam-maker, an organic soap & body care expert, and a chiropractor who donates proceeds from appointments to non-profits.

Moayyer said that the market gives shoppers an alternative to mainstream stores, offering not only a place to buy interesting items, but also the opportunity to support local entrepreneurs in an eco-friendly environment.

“Big-box stores will always be around, but Indie Flea GR makes a bigger impact on the community,” Moayyer said. “When you buy something here, you’re buying something that someone poured their heart and soul into, and you’re supporting someone’s dream.”

OPEN FOR BUSINESS: A glowing sign welcomes guests to Indie Flea GR. The event, housed in the Community Media Center Annex, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. once a month. GVL | ARCHIVE

Despite the growing popularity of local shopping, Indie Flea GR nearly closed last year.

When Perry, a two-year volunteer, heard that founder Eleanor Rigby was considering stepping down and selling the market, she offered to take over the operation in October, 2019.

“After some discussion and thought, we decided to keep (Indie Flea GR) going,” Perry said.

“We didn’t want to see this place end.”

Vendor recruitment is Perry’s top priority for the 2020 season.

New hobbyists and students are eligible to share their work at the market, so long as they display a purpose statement explaining their

background and passions.

“Some people use the market as a stepping stone on their way to becoming a brick and mortar, while others view this as a side gig,” Perry said. “Either way, it’s the perfect opportunity for people to test their products, get out of the kitchen, or try a different career path. We’re open to fresh ideas.”

Perry believes that the market is growing, and she hopes to attract larger crowds this year.

“You might spend a tiny bit more here, but vendors are willing to talk to you and give advice,” Perry said. “It’s not a competition. We want to see each other succeed.”

Indie Flea GR returns Feb. 1.

COMMUNITY

GV launches outreach center, looks to improve educational resources

BY KYLIE ELWELL KELWELL@LANTHORN.COM

SERVING OTHERS: Team members represent GVSU at the new Outreach Center in Battle Creek. COURTESY | MATT BOZZO

On Jan. 16, the new Grand Valley State University Outreach Center had a community open house event and ribbon cutting ceremony provided by the Battle Creek Chamber of Commerce (BCCC).

“The funding for the GVSU Battle Creek Regional Outreach Center was provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in May 2019,” said Career Navigator Matt Bozzo. “Once the location for the new outreach center was selected, a complete remodel transformation was underway in preparation for Nov. 4, 2019.”

The outreach center officially opened Jan. 7. The center is available to increase regional access to educational support resources. Staff at the center can provide assistance to students and residents in the area with college and career explora-

tion, as well as helping with financial aid forms and college applications.

There will be support for career exploration and individualized educational planning assistance to facilitate educational attainment. The staff will also support the educational goals of K-12 students, transfer students and adults in the community, while providing resources to assist Battle Creek Public Schools (BCPS) in their district transformation.

“The center aims to best support students in accessing and attaining in their post-secondary plans, regardless if that’s going to trade school, community college or a four-year university like GVSU,” Bozzo said. “The hope is for students, their families and community members to be provided a comfortable and focused space to get 1:1 individual advising services to those who want assistance in pursuing post-secondary education.”

The opening date worked out well because of Battle Creek Public School District’s Transformation initiatives.

GVSU wanted to support BCPS as best they could, which means supporting students, their families, teachers and school staff. The transformation was extensive and great.

“It’s incredible to see the role the GVSU Battle Creek Regional Outreach Center has in best supporting students in their post-secondary educational plans,” Bozzo said.

President Philomena Mantella attended the center’s grand opening on Jan. 7 and gave comments to the audience and attendees regarding GVSU’s mission in supporting the Battle Creek region.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLNEWS

A6 | NEWS GOVERNANCE

Student Senate hosts first annual State of the Student Body address

BY AMY MCNEEL ASSOCIATE@LANTHORN.COM

Grand Valley State University’s Student Senate held the first annual State of the Student Body address Thursday, Jan. 16. The event, which was attended by President Philomena Mantella, along with GVSU students, faculty and staff, focused on recent achievements and updates from the Student Senate.

Senate President Eric-John Szczepaniak opened the address with a short speech, in which he detailed the body’s mission to build an engaged and empowered student body, as well as to enact positive, lasting change.

Positive change was a common theme throughout the event, with many Student Senate vice presidents citing new initiatives and successes on campus.

In October 2019, former student senator Ari Nitzkin sponsored a resolution to create a prayer room on GVSU’s medical campus, while senators McKenzie Gamage and Gavin Marlowe sponsored a resolution to oppose the Grand River Waterway Project. Both resolutions were passed by the Senate at the general assembly meeting Oct. 24.

Other successes include Open Access Week, the Voter Registration Drive and the new free menstrual product initiative.

In his speech, Senate Vice President of External Relations Joel Pagel said that in 2019 GVSU registered the highest number of students to vote on campus than any other Michigan university.

The event also had a focus on mental health. The University’s Counseling Center’s Assistant Director of Prevention and Community Education Melissa Selby-Theut spoke

UPDATES: The Student Senate held their first-ever State of the Student Body address Jan. 16. During the address, senators spoke about recent achievements and mental health issues. GVL | MICAH HILL

about the importance of actively understanding mental health, as well as the many available resources on campus.

After her speech, the University Arts Chorale performed “Please Stay,” a piece about suicide prevention. Vice President of Senate Resources Hannah Benoit followed up the performance with her own address about mental health.

Benoit said GVSU serves a higher number of students for counseling than most other Michigan Universities. She also said that when GVSU students are given the resources

to succeed, it is evident that they can and do.

To wrap up the address, senators spoke about upcoming events and important resources, such as the “my name” program, Martin Luther King Jr. Week and the Reach Higher Together initiative.

President Szczepaniak closed the event with a reminder that Student Senate is meant to serve the student body. If you have any concerns or comments for the Senate, you can attend general assembly meetings, which are held each Thursday at 4:30 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center Pere Marquette room 2204.

CAMPUS

CAB outlines winter 2020 goals, events

BY LUCAS SWARTZENDRUBER LSWARTZENDRUBER@LANTHORN.COM

ENTERTAINMENT: Campus Activities Board seeks to provide free entertainment for Lakers on campus. GVL | ALEXIS VELAZQUEZ

On Jan. 14, the Campus Activities Board (CAB) hosted CAB Info Night in the Kirkhof Center Room 0072 on the Allendale Campus. Here, students learned how they can help around Grand Valley State University as CAB members.

“It’s really a nice way to use your passion to give back to campus because we put these events on for a lot of students,” said CAB President Jessica Fillmore.

Prior to college, Fillmore said she was really involved in high school through planning events. As a GVSU freshman, she looked for a similar experience. With some help from a resident assistant (RA) involved on campus, she joined CAB. As CAB’s current president, Fillmore said the organization is pursuing some

inter-organizational goals this winter semester. One goal involves CAB hosting one event each week. Furthermore, CAB seeks to diversify their events to cater to all students, including for movie selections and craft nights.

However, Fillmore said it is tough to diversify events because CAB has limited time and resources. CAB directors work with budgets, students and on-campus partners when organizing events. Furthermore, there are a lot of opinions to consider between CAB board members and the GVSU student population.

CAB is always open to suggestions from students, Fillmore said. She said general members really help CAB by attending committee meetings where detailed planning occurs for events. Here, general members can express their opinions on aspects of CAB activities.

For general meetings, Fillmore said they help CAB members reach for volunteer opportunities and stay updated and engaged in professional development. Through professional development, CAB also goes through professional development experiences, such as workshops on interviews and resumes. In the process, Fillmore mentioned this helps students prepare for the real world as an additional benefit to the time they invest into CAB. Beyond attending meetings, students can also volunteer for upcoming events CAB has scheduled for winter 2020. Sibs for Kids, Weekend Feb. 21-23 will allow students’ siblings to visit GVSU. Fillmore said activities throughout the weekend will include trivia, bingo and a carnival.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS

A7 | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS AT A GLANCE

THEATER

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS SHOWCASE 50 YEARS

From Monday, Jan. 6 through June 19 in the Lake Ontario Hall Red Wall Gallery, there will be an exhibition in honor of 50 years of international programs at Grand Valley State University.

This gallery will include photos and texts about each program, an overview of the history of the program and what each one has to offer to students on campus.

At the gallery wall, students are able to visualize the different programs available and see stories shared by fellow students who have studied abroad.

By putting this on a gallery wall, it is easier and more accessible for students to learn about the benefits of study abroad.

GVSU’s study abroad program has grown tremendously over the years.

Beginning with the first partnerships with universities in Poland, Yugoslavia, and Japan, GVSU now has partnerships with universities all over the globe.

See full story at lanthorn.com

PRISTMATICA ON MONROE LIGHTS UP THE CITY

The third annual World of Winter Festival began this Friday, Jan. 17.

Organized by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., a new event was added this year to kick off the family fun festival.

Pristmatica on Monroe was first displayed on Friday morning from 9 a.m.-11 p.m. and will be on display through Feb. 16.

The World of Winter Festival is a month-long festival filled with winter-themed, family-friendly programming and events that are free to the public. The festival was created to take advantage of Michigan’s cold winter weather and provide fun ways for people to get outside and enjoy the season.

Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Communications Specialist Samantha Suarez said that the World of Winter Festival is designed to make Grand Rapids a better winter city, “which makes Grand Rapids a better year round city.”

See full story at lanthorn.com

GRAND RAPIDS BROADWAY BRINGS HAMILTON TO THE CITY

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony award winning musical “Hamilton” is coming to Broadway Grand Rapids at DeVos Performance Hall. Opening Jan. 21 and running to Feb. 9, the Grand Rapids community will be able to see the popular musical which blended broadway with rap, hip-hop and other genres.

“Hamilton” is centered around Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers. Opening with an overview of his childhood as an orphan, the play acts out major life events, including the Revolutionary War, up until his death.

Dramaturgy student works on new GRCT production

BY MARY RACETTE ARTS@LANTHORN.COM

The Grand Rapids Civic Theater (GRCT) performs relevant themes in the classic production, “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Part of the production team is Grand Valley State University student Chavala Ymker, who is using skills learned in GVSU classes for her role as a dramaturg, or one who works on the interpretation of a playwright’s work.

Tennessee Williams’ 1947 Broadway play “A Streetcar Named Desire” is set in New Orleans during the post-World War II era. The many themes in the play have dual relevance to the historical context of the play and 21st century issues.

Artistic Director Jean Bahle said, “(The play) is a classic that people think they know, but we were surprised about how much of this play is still relevant today. It doesn’t feel like a museum piece at all.”

Domestic abuse, mental health, addiction and conflicts between classes are all issues which characters in “A Streetcar Named Desire” face. Almost three-quarters of a decade later, these issues are still very much alive. Originally, these were themes in the play because during this time period it was, as Bahle puts it, “the way things were.” However, for this production, the director and dramaturg looked at these themes as an opportunity to engage audiences and spark conversations for social change.

Bahle said the GRCT production of “A Streetcar Named Desire” stays true to the authentic time period of the play. One difference that stands out about the GRCT production is

TIMELESS THEATER: GVSU student Chavala Ymker considers relevant themes and historical context as dramaturg for Grand Rapids Civic Theater’s “A Streetcar Named Desire.” GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

the added interludes with ensemble and music.

Bahle said these were added to further establish the setting.

This production marks Bahle’s first time directing with GRCT. Prior to being offered the role of director, she acted in GRCT productions. While all of the actors are volunteers, Bahle complements her cast and crew for their work ethic and skill level.

Ymker is one of the key team members which Bahle mentioned for “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Ymker, a junior, is a part of the Integrated Studies Program at Brooks College, with an

emphasis on storytelling and social change. In addition to her studies through Brooks College, Ymker is a theater minor.

Ymker describes her emphasis through the program as finding ways to tell stories through multiple mediums, including, theater, creative writing, history and photography. She said the curriculum for professor James Bell’s production dramaturgy class was the most useful class towards her work with GRCT. LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

LIVE MUSIC

One professor, one tuba, months of preparation

BY MARY DUPUIS MDUPUIS@LANTHORN.COM

On Sunday, Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m., Grand Valley State University held a Faculty Artist Recital featuring Paul Carlson on the tuba and Robert Byrens as his collaborative pianist.

This free recital took place in the Sherman van Solkema Recital Hall in the Haas Center

SOLO TUBA: Paul Carlson performs at the annual Faculty Artsist Recital. COURTESY | ALLEVENTS.IN

for Performing Arts and is open to GVSU students as well as the general public.

Carlson is currently the assistant professor of tuba and euphonium in the Music, Theatre and Dance Department at GVSU, and has been involved with the university for eight years.

While Carlson has been at GVSU for nearly a decade, he and his tuba have much more history. Carlson began playing the tuba about 26 years ago and since then has been across the globe performing with it.

“I play in a group called Dallas Brass, which is one of the most renowned brass quintets in the country,” Carlson said. “I also regularly perform with orchestras, Dixieland bands and other ensembles, as well as appearances as a soloist. I have played tuba in 46 states as well as China and many countries in Europe.”

As much as he has played for other countries, Carlson said that he loves the community at GVSU and was excited for the audience to hear what he had in store.

“It’s fun to play for the GVSU commu-

nity,” Carlson said. “As a musician, you spend so much of your time practicing by yourself. So, it’s great to share this music I’ve been working on with the public.”

Carlson performs in an artist faculty concert every year and this year will be the fourth in which he and Byrens have organized the recital. This year, the pair’s preparations began well in advance.

“Every solo recital I prepare different repertoire, which takes a long time to prepare,” Carlson said. “I’ve known I was going to play this repertoire since the end of summer or early fall.”

Not only did Carlson have to prepare his own repertoire, but he and Byrens also had to reserve the recital hall and rehearse consistently.

“I try to practice about three hours a day almost every day,” Carlson said.

LOG ON TO: www.lanthorn.com FOR THE FULL ARTICLE

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

Just a kid from West Ottawa: Van Tu points, newly-acquired strength and

BY KELLEN VOSS SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

When Jake Van Tubbergen first stepped onto Grand Valley State’s Allendale campus, he was a pencil-thin teenager who would often get pushed around in the paint during most basketball games.

The Holland, Michigan native will be the first one to admit that he wasn’t the biggest guy, but out of everything that has happened in his already-illustrious tenure for GVSU basketball, he is most proud of how he has put on a lot of muscle and is now the hammer instead of the nail in the paint.

“I’ve probably put on 30 pounds since I came here as a freshman,” Van Tubbergen said. “That was big for me.”

Two-and-a-years and 1,041 points later, Van Tubbergen is a leader on the GVSU basketball team who plays a lot like one of his favorite basketball players that he always picked to play with in NBA 2K: Kevin Durant.

The similarities are clear to see: long arms, a lanky frame, running like a gazelle and getting buckets with an elite mid-range game and a driving spin move that when executed correctly is pretty much un-guardable.

Van Tubbergen’s 6’7” frame combined with his newfound strength has made him a force in the GLIAC, as over his Laker career, he has averaged 13.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game while shooting 55 percent on field goals and 38 percent from three.

He’s clearly playing his best basketball this season, as he has scored 20+ points in 8 of 17 games and is averaging a teamhigh 10.3 rebounds per game.

Every basketball team needs a guy who can get buckets in the final few minutes when the pressure is high and the offense is sputtering. Van Tubbergen has been that guy for GVSU for a while, as his signature post-move — a turn-around jumper fading towards the sideline — is the most unstoppable move in the GLIAC. Assistant coach Taylor Johnson first saw that move on display at the GVSU team camp in 2013. The progress he saw Jake make from then to the summer of 2016, when Jake’s AAU team won a game out in Vegas as he guarded Zion Williamson, is what made Johnson fall in love with Van Tubbergen.

“I first saw him play when he came to our team camp (the summer before) Jake’s freshmen year of high school,” Johnson said. “I continued to watch him gradually

improve, saw his overflowing potential, and being that he’s a local kid, I knew we had to get him and we did.”

Upon being a offered a full-ride scholarship prior to his senior season with the West Ottawa Panthers, Van Tubbergen knew that Allendale would be a great fit for him after only one visit.

“When I came on the visit, I really connected with the guys,” Van Tubbergen said. “It’s pretty close to home, and I just felt like it was the right place for me.”

Fast-forward to Jan. 11, 2020, when Van Tubbergen used every ounce of his strength to record an and-one lay-up against the Wayne State Warriors. Van Tubbergen was shocked to hear after the game that that lay-up were the points that helped him reach the century mark.

“It feels good,” Van Tubbergen said in a post-game interview with GVSU director of communications and broadcasting Jake Levy. “But I’m just glad we got the win.”

That unselfish mentality has made GVSU a force to be reckon with when Van Tubbergen plays, as the Lakers are 45-28 all-time when he appears in the game.

He likely won’t boast about them, but Van Tubbergen’s play has amassed him a few accolades. He was named the GLIAC Freshman of the Year after averaging 11.4

FROM HOLLAND TO ALLENDALE: GVSU junior Jake Van Tubbergen has made a name for himself at Grand Valley State University. The Holland, Michigan native has earned 1,041 points for the Lakers since his arrival in 2017. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

points and 6.6 rebounds per game. He has also been named to the All-GLIAC second team twice, but is making a strong case to be on the first team this season.

While the GVSU men’s basketball team has struggled to mesh on offense early in the season due to starting guards Jeremiah Ferguson and Jayden Hodgson both missing extended time with lower leg injuries, after winning 12 of the last 13 games, Van Tubbergen feels the team is thriving.

“We’re just trying to keep things rolling,” Van Tubbergen said. “The start of this year, we had a few guys out with injuries, but now that we got everybody healthy, we’re really hitting our stride right now.”

Both Van Tubbergen and Johnson were gushing about the junior’s muscle, including a funny little anecdote that Johnson couldn’t help but share that really articulates how much stronger Van Tubbergen has gotten since his 2017 arrival.

“He’ll probably hate me for saying this,” Johnson said with a chuckle. “But when Jake first got here, he couldn’t bench 185 (pounds). He was scrawny. But now, he can bench that weight probably five or six times.”

Kevin Durant couldn’t bench 185 when he first entered the NBA, either.

LEADERSHIP: Van Tubbergen has become a leader on the court, averaging a team-high 10.3 rebounds per game this season. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

A8&9 | SPORTS ubbergen reflects on scoring 1,000 d GVSU Basketball’s recent success

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS

A10 | LANTHORN LIVE

LANTHORN LIVE ternative rock band is from Grand Rapids, so even when they get big and famous, you can expect to see In the winter, it can be easy to spend them again. your evenings and weekends in your pajamas binging Netflix alone, or Open Mic Night at the inviting over friends and ordering Mayan Buzz Cafe pizza and binging Netflix together.

Every Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m., But Grand Rapids is still alive and the Mayan Buzz Cafe hosts the buzzing with exciting things to do.

All Access Open Mic Night. DeSo get off the couch and go see what stress from the week with some of the city has to offer. And if you want their quality coffee, and then hear something to eat, check out our voices from the community perrestaurant guide. form original songs, poems and more. It’s a great place to try out The Heaters at The Pyrayour own material or soak-up the mid Scheme unique talents of others.

Bummed that Billie Eilish’s tour isn’t stopping in Michigan?

Bodies Revealed at the Couldn’t afford to dish up $200 to Grand Rapids Public Musee Post Malone? Why not check seum out some local bands to save yourUpset that as a Poly-Sci major you self the money and the heartbreak can’t fit the cadaver lab into your of trying to catch the big names schedule? Upset that as a Biololive? The Intersection and The gy major you can only take the Pyramid Scheme have a consistent cadaver lab once? From now unline-up of local bands and tourtil March, visit the Grand Rapids ing independent artists, all for a Public Museum's newest exhibit, reasonable cover charge and in a Bodies Revealed. This exhibit feacool atmosphere. Check out The tures preserved human bodies deHeaters on Saturday, Jan. 25 for tailing the skeletal, muscular and only $10. Started in 2013, this alBY BRIANNE KERR WEB@LANTHORN.COM

nervous systems, and is set up to educate visitors on a healthy lifestyle. Go for the biology lesson, the motivation to get healthy or to point at a human heart and say “that’s a human heart.” Tickets are $15 and include admission to the rest of the museum.

Symphony for only $5? Take advantage of that and impress your mom or surprise your Tinder match by spending a night at the symphony. Their next show “The Glory of the Baroque,” is Jan. 31, and features pieces from Bach, Handel and other renowned composers. If classical music isn’t your Comedy Outlet Mondays at style, check out their full calenThe Comedy Project dar of events. The Symphony freNow that Friends is off Netflix, every- quently does alternative shows, one is surely comedy-starved. Look from Frank Sinatra tributes to live no further than If you need a reason movie soundtracks. to look forward to Mondays, try out Comedy Outlet Mondays, a variety Color out of Space at the show that takes place every Monday UICA at 7 p.m. for only $6. See a combi- If you’re tired of superhero movies nation of stand-up, improv, music and want to try to get in the Indie and sketch comedy, and maybe find movie scene, visit the Urban Instiyour new favorite local comedian. In tute of Contemporary Arts. They addition to their weekly shows, The have a constant rotation of lesser Comedy Project almost always has known films, from documentasomething going on, so check out ries to horror and everything in their full calendar of events. between. If you’re a fan of H.G. Wells, Nicolas Cage or anything The Grand Rapids Sym- weird and colorful, go see Color phony at St. Cecilia Music out of Space. It opens Friday, Jan. Center 24, but on the 22nd they’re airing Did you know that students can a special directors cut. Tickets are get tickets to the Grand Rapids $10 and can be bought at the door.

JANUARY 20, 202O GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLARTS

A11 | LANTHORN LIVE

BREWING COMPANY BREWING COMPANY *trivia factory every Tuesday 7-9pm 1/16 vault of midnight game night 6pm 1/17 pink sky 9pm *trivia factory every Tuesday 7-9pm 1/22 going green 101 sustainablity series 6pm 1/16 vault of midnight game night 6pm 1/23 movie trivia 7pm BREWING COMPANY 1/17of pink sky 9pm 1/30 game thrones trivia 7pm 1/22 going green 101 sustainablity series 6pm 2/1 bridge street makers market and bar hop 3pm 1/23 movie trivia 7pm 2/1 brandino + 7-9pm eli kahn 9pm *trivia factoryextravaganza every Tuesday 1/30 game of thrones trivia 7pm 2/5of brushes with benefits 1/16 vault midnight game night7pm 6pm 2/1 bridge street makers market and bar 9pm hop 3pm 2/8 love is a drag drag show benefit 1/17 pink sky 9pm 2/1 brandino extravaganza + eli kahn 9pm 2/13 trivia 7pm 1/22 going green 101music sustainablity series 6pm 2/5 brushes with benefits 7pm 2/19 collage! collage! community artmaking 1/23 movie trivia 7pm 2/8 love is a drag drag show benefit 9pm 2/20 game7pm night 6pm 1/30 vault gameof ofmidnight thrones trivia 2/13 music trivia 7pm 2/26 composting workshop sustainabilty series 2/1 bridge street makers market and bar hop 3pm 6pm 2/19 collage! collage! community artmaking 3/7 disco ball drag show benefit for DisArt 2/1 brandino extravaganza + eli kahn 9pm 9pm 2/20 vault of midnight game night 6pm 3/12 music trivia 7pm 2/5 brushes with benefits 7pm 2/26 composting workshop sustainabilty series 6pm live musicandro 8pm9pm 2/8 love is 3/13 a drag drag show benefit ball drag show benefit for6:30pm DisArt 9pm HARMONY HALL 3/18 2/13 intro to coding workshop HARMONY EASTOWN 3/7 disco music trivia 7pm 3/12of music triviagame 7pm night 3/19 vault midnight 401 STOCKING AVE NW collage! community artmaking 1551 LAKE DR SE 2/19 collage!

3/13 live musicandro 8pm 3/26 movia trivia 7pm 2/20 vault of midnight game night 6pm HARMONY HALL 3/18 intro to coding workshop 6:30pm HARMONY EASTOWN 2/26 composting workshop sustainabilty series 6pm 3/19 vault of midnight game night 401 STOCKING AVE NW 1551 LAKE DR SE 3/7 disco ball drag show benefit for DisArt 9pm 3/26 movia trivia 7pm 3/12 music trivia 7pm 3/13 live music- andro 8pm HARMONY HALL 3/18 intro to coding workshop 6:30pm HARMONY EASTOWN

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A12 | SPORTS QUICK HITS WOMEN’S LACROSSE TEAM ANNOUNCES TEAM CAPTAINS FOR 2020

The Grand Valley State women’s lacrosse team and head coach Mackenzie Lawler have announced the naming of the 2020 team captains. Junior Sophie Conroy and seniors Anna Gritter, Megan Yoshida and Sarah Staggard will lead the team in coach Lawler’s second season as head coach.

“We are very excited to have Sarah, Megan, Anna, and Sophie as our captains for the 2020 season,” Lawler said. “As a coaching staff we look forward to continuing their leadership development to help our team achieve our goal of a GLIAC Championship and post-season appearance.”

As a returning team captain, Stagaard scored 40 goals and dished out five assists in her junior season. Stagaard controlled 37 draws, good for third on the team and 17th best in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and earned All-GLIAC Second Team honors.

GVSU kicks off the 2020 season at Lake Erie on Sunday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m.

LAKER DANCE TEAM ANNOUNCES FIFTH ANNUAL YOUTH DANCE CLINIC

The Laker Dance Team of Grand Valley State University will host their 5th annual Youth Dance Clinic for K-8 students on Saturday, February 8th The event will take place in the GVSU Recreation Center courts 4 & 5.

Youth clinic participants will have the opportunity to work directly with the Laker Dance Team and can expect a fun-filled day with various activities for kids to learn from and enjoy. Together, participants and Laker Dance Team members will prepare a fun routine that will be showcased for family, friends, and fans at the halftime of the GVSU Women’s Basketball game! No prior dance experience is required.

Additional clinic details and registration information can be found at: http:// bit.ly/LDT_YouthClinic2020

M. BASKETBALL

GVSU Basketball sweeps GLIAC matchups, claims top spot in conference

BY KELLEN VOSS SPORTS@LANTHORN.COM

A great philosopher by the name of Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. (aka Lil Wayne) once said, “You know you at the top when only heaven is right above it.”

The only thing above the Grand Valley State men’s basketball team right now is heaven, as over the week, they improved to 15-2 overall and 8-1 in the GLIAC, which is good for first place in the conference.

GVSU coach Ric Wesley attributes that success to this team’s improvement on the defensive side, as they’ve held opponents to an average of 58.25 points per game.

“I think what has helped us in the past few weeks has been our defense,” Wesley said. “Our on-ball defense and ball-screen defense have been really strong, and when you do that and share the ball offensively, you become a pretty great team.”

The 15th-ranked Lakers took care of business at home on Thursday, beating Northwood 62-45 before hitting the road two days later to trounce Saginaw Valley State, 75-61.

The Northwood game started out like a rock fight, as physical play saw GVSU

only lead by two before the final media timeout. After the break, GVSU went on a 15-2 run to close the half, with 13 of those points coming from junior Isaac Gassman.

“Jake found me in the corner and it felt good,” Gassman said. “I know coach gives me the freedom to shoot, and I do.”

Gassman was playing like he had the ‘Secret Stuff ’ from Space Jam in his system, and senior starting point guard Jeremiah Ferguson must have also taken a swig of that on Saturday. He scored a season-high 22 points, recording five rebounds and three assists while going a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line.

It’s been an up-and-down season for Ferguson, who missed the entire month of December dealing with a lower leg injury, but Wesley thought he had his best game of the season against the Cardinals. “(Ferguson’s) decision making was good,” Wesley said. “He got the ball to the right spots on the floor, and he got everybody involved, too. His defense was good too. Saginaw has some strong perimeter players, and Ferg, John (Slater) and everyone did a good job on them.”

A huge component to GVSU’s successful stretch has been their team chemistry,

as despite only having six players returning from the 2018-19 season, this team gels well on the floor because of how much time they spend with each other off the floor.

“We have a lot of good guys,” Wesley said. “They get along well, and no team chemistry issues. They genuinely like each other and hang out on a day-to-day basis, so we can spend all our time focusing on the gameplan.”

With the games being lopsided for the week, it was the perfect opportunity for Wesley and his staff to experiment with a 2-3 zone that appeared for a few possessions in each game. Those in-game reps may be valuable if the Lakers need a key stop in close games, and Wesley and his staff aren’t afraid to change up the gameplan to keep opponents guessing.

“We’ll do anything we’ll have to do to try to win,” Wesley said. “We play mostly man-to-man, but we’ll play a little zone, a little box-and-one, a little triangle-and-two, we’ll put the coaches in there (to play), I don’t care. It’s our job to find a way to win, but at this point in the year we got a lot of different things in our arsenal that we can use.”

VARSITY SCHEDULE MEN’S BASKETBALL Thursday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m., vs Michigan Tech Saturday, Jan. 25, 3 p.m., vs Northern Michigan (Sawyers Day)

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Thursday, Jan. 23, 6 p.m., vs Michigan Tech Saturday, Jan. 25, 1 p.m., vs Northern Michigan (Sawyers Day)

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S INDOOR TRACK & FIELD Friday, Jan. 24, All Day, @ Hillsdale College Crossover Friday, Jan. 24-Saturday, Jan. 25, All Day, @ Indiana University for Gladstein Invitational

MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SWIMMING & DIVING Saturday, Jan. 25, 1 p.m., @ Wayne State

REACH FOR THE STARS: The Grand Valley State men’s basketball team has been on a roll recently, with a 15-2 overall record and an 8-1 GLIAC record. The Laker’s recent success has largely come from the defensive end, where the team has been focused on improvement. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A13 | SPORTS

W. BASKETBALL

PUSHING THROUGH: Trying to get around a Northwood defender, senior Victoria Hedemark (No. 33) digs low and drives toward the net. The team, ranked No. 4, trumped Northwood 74-35 during their game Jan. 16. GVSU coach Mike Williams praised the Lakers for their ability to attack on offense and applying necessary pressure to open up the net when moving down court. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

Team-wide effort spurs Lakers past Northwood, SVSU in GLIAC play

BY ELI ONG EONG@LANTHORN.COM

The No. 4 ranked Grand Valley State University women’s basketball team featured a balanced attack and a litany of team-wide contributions to handily win over conference foes Northwood and Saginaw Valley State.

The GVSU women’s basketball team took down Northwood 74-35 in GLIAC play on Thursday night inside the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena. The Lakers improved to 15-1 overall and 7-1 in league play.

In the first game, the Lakers were led by senior guards Taryn Taugher and Victoria Hedemark who combined to score as many points as their Timberwolve opposition (35) by the final buzzer. Taugher poured in a season-high 19 points while Hedemark also had a season-high 16 points, grabbed four rebounds and recorded four steals.

“It felt good,” Taugher said after being asked how she felt after pouring in a season-high in points. “But it was more than just me. We hit the boards, attacked in transition, capitalized on second chances — it was a team-wide effort.”

Senior center Cassidy Boensch was the only other Laker in double-figures with 11 points and senior guard Jenn DeBoer totaled eight rebounds and seven assists. As a team, the GVSU defense continued to force their opponent into making tough shots. After holding Wayne State last Saturday to just 29 percent shooting from the field, the Lakers held Northwood to a 25.5 percent mark from the floor and 16.7 percent from behind the arc, in addition to forcing 23 Timberwolf turnovers.

“I think we did a good job of protecting the rim and hitting the boards to limit their second chance opportunities,” said GVSU coach Mike Williams. “Offensively, I think we did a good job attacking their pressure and softening them up on the offensive end of the floor.”

GVSU jumped out to a 12-2 lead halfway through the first quarter and did not score a field goal for the rest of the frame, but went 6-6 from the free-throw line to lead 18-6 after 10 minutes of play. The Lakers quickly grew their lead to 29-9 with 6:24 left in the half before the Timberwolves would knock down a pair of three-pointers to cut the deficit to just 31-17 at the break.

The Lakers defense was at their best in the third quarter, forcing Northwood to shoot just 1-10 from the field, while increasing their lead to 52-20 by shooting 7-10 from the field including 2-2 from three-point range.

The two teams traded buckets back and forth in the fourth quarter before GVSU grew their lead to a game-high 39 points at 74-35 in the final minutes of the contest.

“We’ve worked really hard to create opportunities around Cassidy, because she’s usually the point heavy scorer,” Hedemark said after the game. “Tonight we did a good job moving around her and that lead to us scoring more points.”

Against SVSU, the GVSU women’s basketball team held their opponent to 42 points in a 57-42 victory over their GLIAC rival, the third straight game the Lakers have held their opponents to 42 points or less. With the win, GVSU moved to 16-1 overall and 8-1 in GLIAC play.

GVSU used a balanced scoring attack with three players in double-figures and a stifling

NOT TODAY: Trying to intercept a passing ball from a Northwood player, GVSU freshman Courtney Sharland applies pressure on defense during the team’s game Thursday. GVL | MEGHAN LANDGREN

defense that forced 20 turnovers to earn the victory. Senior center Cassidy Boensch had a team-high 13 points and eight rebounds, while freshman forward Haley Swing scored a career-high 12 points and senior guard Taryn Taugher finished with 10 points. Senior guard Victoria Hedemark caused havoc on the defense end, recording a career-high seven steals to help anchor the Laker defense.

The first quarter was a struggle for the Lakers offensively as they trailed 8-2 early in the frame. Neither team would score the final 3:54 of the quarter and SVSU took an 8-5 lead into the second quarter. GVSU’s offense would begin clicking in the second, going on a 9-0 run

to grab a 19-12 lead with 4:51 left in the half.

The Lakers sustained the lead and went into the halftime break up 27-20.

SVSU opened the half with a layup before GVSU went on an 11-0 run to grow their lead to 38-22 midway through the third quarter. The Lakers continued to increase the margin in the fourth quarter, going up a game-high 19 points at 57-38 with 1:14 left in the contest.

GVSU will host a pair of teams next week beginning Thursday, Jan. 23 versus Michigan Tech at 6 p.m. inside the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena, followed by Sawyer’s Day on Saturday, Jan. 25 against Northern Michigan at 1 p.m.

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A14 | SPORTS TRACK & FIELD

GVSU Hosts Bill Clinger Classic, dominates field events

BY ROSEMARY BOOHER RBOOHER@LANTHORN.COM

The Grand Valley State Lakers indoor track & field team held the Bill Clinger Classic indoor track meet on Friday Jan. 17, at the Kelly Family Sports Center, where they honored the GVSU track and field coach who started the program in 1968.

This was the Laker’s third and longest meet in Allendale so far in the season, the first event started at 2:45 p.m. and the last event started at 10 p.m. Although GVSU track and field head coach Jerry Baltes thinks lengthy meets aren’t ideal, he feels that here at GVSU we have a support crew forthe program that draws other teams to want to compete here.

“Friday’s meet was a long competition; ideally we would like to have a three or four hour track meet and get what we need done and move on,” Baltes said.

“We have a great support crew with our athletic training, game operations, sports info and we provide great competition so a lot of programs like to come to the Kelly to compete.”

GVSU was strong in their feild events, bringing in both first and second place in the women’s weight throw, Franesha Robinson-Mitchell in first (19.23-meters) and Bobbie Goodwin in second (19.22-meters). Justin Scavarda also claimed first place in the weight throw (20.02-meters) for the men’s team as well as second place in shot put (17.16-meters).

“Some of the highlights were Franny and Justine in the weight throw,” Baltes said. “They both had huge PR’s that should get them into the NCAA Championships.”

The Lakers continued with their field events by earning second place in both

the men’s and women’s triple jump, Mac Mitchell with a jump of 13.51-meters and Anna Obi with 11.78-meters. GVSU also took second in the pole vault for the men’s team and took fourth for the women’s team, Jacob Battani with 5.06-meters and Elli Kimes with 3.87-meters.

On the track the GVSU women’s team came in third in the 600-meter dash with a finish at 11:40.11 from freshman Molly McLaughlin. Klaudia O’Malley finished in fifth place in the 3000-meter race with a time of 9:54.66. Eighth place was taken

by Abby Crouch in the 800-meter race with a 2:18. 35 time.

The men’s team claimed both fourth and seventh palce in the 800-meter run, as Jacob Domaglaski finished with a time of 1:55.40 and Alexander Sanford finished with 1:56.53. Tyler Kirkwood (8.32 seconds) finished fourth while Tyler Mansfield (8.55 seconds) finished sixth in the 60-meter hurdles.

“Tyler Kirkwood and Tyler Mansfield both finished well in the hurdles,” Baltes said. “If they can put together a clean race they will race fast.”

Moving on to the teams next meet, Baltes is looking forward to competing on the road but plans to maintain the teams focus on training and taking each day as it comes.

“This weekend will be a great weekend to get away from our home track and see some different competition and take the next step in our competitive season,” Baltes said. “We just need to stay focused on the day-to-day process of training and focus on getting better each day and each week.”

The Laker’s next meet will take place in Hillsdale, Michigan on Friday, Jan. 24, where they will compete in the Hillsdale College Crossover.

IN STRIDE: With all eyes on them, a group of runners run down the track during the Bill Clinger Classic on Jan. 17. The Lakers especially proved themselved in the field events. GVL | ALEXIS VELAZQUEZ

SWIMMING & DIVING

GVSU Swimming & Diving host intra-squad scrimmage on Senior Day due to inclement weather

BY HOLLY BIHLMAN HBIHLMAN@LANTHORN.COM

MAKING A SPLASH: Neck and neck, swimmers take to the water during an intra-squad scrimmage on Senior Day. GVL | KATHERINE VASILE

Of the many highlights on Saturday’s meet, Keegan Hawkins and Charlotte Brereton did quite well in the men’s and women’s 400-IM, as well as the women’s 500 for Brereton. Hawkins ended up breaking the pool record with a time of 3:59.24, igniting the crowd with cheers and applause as his teammates celebrated from the sidelines.

“I feel really good, especially coming off a tough week of practice, but this is the rough season before conference,” Hawkins said. “Coming out today and breaking the record, I couldn’t have done it without my teammates.”

Brereton competed fiercely as well, winning the 500 and the 400-IM. “They went pretty well for being so close to conferences, its definitely good to see some fast times,” Brereton said. “I would like to get at least top 16 in all my events and to be able to be on the scoring team.”

With the athletes making the best of their unfortunate situation, the sense of teamwork and friendly competition was bouncing off the walls of the Fieldhouse pool as they cheered each other on and celebrated the big wins of the afternoon.

The mens 50-free was completed by three swimmers within milliseconds of each other around 21.05, which was well-received by the coaches and teammates, as well as the parents in the audi-

ence. The energy was high despite Findlay being unable to attend, making the meet an unplanned mock competition surrounded by good sportsmanship and team bonding.

“All my teammates are around me supporting me,” Hawkins said. “It’s indescribable, it’s awesome.”

Looking forward for next week’s meet against Wayne State, the swim and dive teams will be traveling to Detroit on Saturday, Jan 25 for their last meet before the GLIAC Championships, aside from the GVSU Diving invite on Saturday, Feb 1. The teams are wrapping up their first half of the season, ready to take on the championships with their A-game.

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A15 | SPORTS

HOCKEY

GVSU DIII Hockey edges Davenport, improves to 19-4

BY ZACK GOODROW ZGOODROW@LANTHORN.COM

On Saturday night, Jan. 18, the weather outside was frightful and the roads were extremely icy. However, the ice inside of Georgetown Griff arena was prime for another Grand Valley State University DIII men’s hockey team (19-4) win.

In the second of their double-header against Davenport University (7-13), the Lakers won a high scoring game, 8-5. They saw the same success on Friday night, as GVSU beat Davenport with a score of 3 -1. The Lakers have now won their last eleven contests against Davenport.

Friday night’s match-up between the two teams at Davenport started off cold. It took two periods for either team to score.

The Lakers dominated possession of the puck, but couldn’t slip a shot past Davenport’s goalie until very late in the second period.

GVSU took 51 shots in the game compared to DU’s 17. Senior Jared Myer did his part as well as the goalie for the Lakers, allowing only one score the entire contest and stopping several breakways from Davenport players.

Late in the second period on Friday, the Lakers broke through for their first score.

Sophomore Timothy Baldwin stole the puck from a Davenport player in their zone. The DU goalie left the box to clear the puck and Baldwin was able to come around the other side of the goal for an easy shot and first goal of the game. Senior Nicholas Beers also scored a goal at the beginning of the third period to put the Lakers up by two. After DU scored a goal late in the third to cut the lead in half, senior Nicholas Salisbury scored a game-winner dagger to give the Lakers the lead 3-1.

“I thought we played very sloppy,” said head coach Charlie Link. “We just didn’t have our timing down yet after being gone

DOUBLE VICTORY: The Lakers get back in the swing of things in their double-header with Davenport University. The team brought home their eleventh consecutive win. GVL | KATHERINE VASILE

for winter break. We haven’t gotten back in the swing of things yet and have only skated four times in five weeks.”

Link’s words and message to the team seemed to resonate, as GVSU came ready to play against Davenport the following night.

The game started out hot in Allendale on the

Lakers home ice, unlike on Friday with the team swapping goals in the first period.

Junior James Baldwin scored the first goal of the game, but this time very early in the first period. After Davenport scored a goal a few minutes later to tie the score at 1-1. Later in the period senior Mitchell Lawton scored

L AK E R E XCHAN G E Survey

Announcements

"Are most of your classes downtown Grand Rapids? We want to hear what you need to be successful at GVSU. Please take 10-15 minutes to let us know how we can improve your experience at the Health or Pew Campus and you can be entered to win a $100 cash prize!

Check your email on January 20, 2020 for information on how to participate."

Hey, Lakers! Follow the Lanthorn on social media to stay up to date with your weekly news source, engage with our news stories, and more!

Facebook: Grand Valley Lanthorn Instagram: @gvlanthorn Twitter: @gvlanthorn

his tenth goal of the season to put the Lakers up again. At the end of the period after another DU score, the game was tied 2-2.

Early in the second period, the Lakers’ Tim Baldwin scored for the second time in two nights to put GVSU up again. After DU tied the game later in the period the Lakers never looked back, scoring four goals unanswered.

Halfway through the second period, junior Benjamin Kowalske scored and James Baldwin scored his second goal of the night to put the Lakers up by two. Senior Trevor Lassaline scored a goal late in the second and again scored early in the third period for his thirteenth goal of the season and pushed GVSU up 7-3.

“Some parts of our game were really good tonight and other parts not so much, we played well and need to fix a few things before our next games this weekend,” Lassaline said. “We had a bunch of guys contributing tonight. Not just one-liners or two-liners, we had all four.”

Those contributions included a goal late in the third period after DU scored twice from Kowalske, his second of the game. In a very physical game, GVSU worked together as a team sharing the responsibility of scored as five Lakers found the back of the net.

Myer also did his job, stopping shots late in the contest to ensure another Laker victory. Even though the high scoring contest on Saturday showed the Lakers can score and the game on Friday showed they can defend, only giving up one score, the team still has improvements to make before the season closes out and the playoffs start.

“We’re going to need to work on our timing and positioning as the season closes out,” Link said. “That’s the big thing for us right now.”

The GVSU men’s DIII hockey team’s next match-up is a double header next weekend against Hope college on Friday and Saturday.

FREE CLASSIFIEDS FOR STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF some restrictions apply email lakerexchange@lanthorn.com for more info on restrictions FOR COMMERCIAL RATES EMAIL

lakerexchange@lanthorn.com OR CALL

Puzzle

Hiring

Do you have sales experience? are you intrested in working for the lanthorn?

We are currently hiring for advertising account executives! Intrested in applying? Check out our job posting on Handshake!

616-331-2460

2 8

4

5

6

7

1 2

9

9

7

3

Presen

Rated:

3

4 8

Sudok

8 6

5

3

6

2 9 3

4

7

Go to printable-puzzles.com | Code: P979FV

Sudoku Puzzle #O842KG Presented by Puzzle Baron

2

1

JANUARY 20, 2020 GRAND VALLEY LANTHORN @GVLSPORTS

A16 | SPORTS

(WHILE SUPPLIES LAST)