Indiana Daily Student - Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024

IDS

Unhoused resources in Bloomington

City of Bloomington HAND

Bloomington Housing Authority Beacon Inc., Shalom

Community Center

Bloomington Township Trustee

Perry Township Trustee

Salvation Army

Monroe County United Ministries

South Central Community Action Program

Indiana Legal Services

Community Kitchen

Mother Hubbard's Cupboard HealthNet

Centerstone Amethyst House

Recovery Alliance

Addiction and mental health resources

By Madelyn Hanes mrhanes@iu.edu | @madelynrhanes

If you or a loved one is battling addiction or mental health challenges, there are several resources available to help one’s journey to recovery. Here is a list of addiction recovery and mental health support available in Monroe County.

Addiction recovery Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - 1-800-662HELP

SAMHSA is a confidential, 24/7 national hotline offering free treatment referral and information.

Overdose prevention resources

By Gentry Keener gekeener@iu.edu

The Indiana Recovery Alliance stated there had been an increase in non-fatal accidental overdoses in the past few days in Bloomington and Monroe County.

According to IRA Executive Director Nick Voyles, the IRA tracks this information on accidential overdoses through participants directly telling them. Although the organization partners with the Monroe County Health Department for programs such as the Monroe County Syringe Service Program, non-fatal overdoses often aren’t tracked by larger organizations or departments.

Indiana Recovery Alliance is a drug-user human rights advocacy organization that aims to reduce harm and educate on the effects and impacts of drug use. They focus on harm reduction, which is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. Fatal accidental overdoses dramatically increased from September to October this year, according to the Monroe County Coroner Office. In September there was only one recorded fatal overdose, whereas in October there were six fatal overdoses.

IU Health helps adults with an outpatient and inpatient therapy program. It can be reached at 1-800-387-3440 to make an appointment. IU Health offers financial assistance after submitting and completing a complete application for financial assistance. Call 888-531-3004 for financial counseling.

• Amethyst House – 645 N. Walnut St. Amethyst House provides residential and outpatient services for drug and alcohol addiction. Their services can be reached at 812-336-3570. Clients must be clean and sober for a minimum of two

• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) NIDA offers information on research about substance use and treatment options. IU Health Addiction Treatment & Recovery Center – 727 W. Second St.

weeks before starting treatment. Fees are affordable and based on a sliding scale.

• Clean Slate – 502 W. Second St. Suite A Clean Slate offers medication-assisted therapy for opioid, alcohol and other drug addictions in an appointment-based outpatient setting. It can be reached at 833-505-4673. Clean Slate offers a flexible payment option and will work with people to find a payment plan they can afford.

• Indiana Center for Recovery – 1004 W. First St.

The Indiana Center for Recovery provides addiction treatment through detox services, inpatient and outpatient. It can be reached at 574-500-2819. Most insurance is accepted.

• Recovery Engagement Center (REC) – 221 N. Rogers St. REC is a walk-in community center for adults seeking recovery. Here you can find resources, help or just a cup of coffee. They also provide recovery classes and coaching. It can be reached at 812337-2424.

Mental health resources

In case of a mental health crisis, call 988 or seek the nearest emergency room.

• Centerstone Bloomington – 645 S. Rogers St. Centerstone offers health counseling and substance use disorder treatments. It can be reached at 877-4673123 to make an appointment. At Centerstone anyone is welcome and the organi-

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

zation will work with people to make a payment plan and see if individuals qualify for grant-funding or need-based payment assistance programs.

IU Health Bloomington Hospital – 727 W. Second St.

IU Health offers access to outpatient care, therapist, social service agencies and physicians. It can be reached at 812-353-3450 to make an appointment. IU Health offers financial assistance after submitting and completing a complete application for financial assistance. Call 888531-3004 for financial counseling.

• Bloomington Meadows Hospital – 3600 N. Prow Road

SEE ADDICTION, PAGE 4

What readers can expect next semester

IWith an increase in accidental overdoses, the IRA stresses the importance of harm reduction tactics and being informed of the action to take if one occurs.

Know the facts

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, overdoses are the leading injury-related cause of deaths in the United States. In 2023, 107,543 people died from drug overdoses, which equates to 294 overdoses each day. Over 80,000 of those deaths involved opioids. Last year, 2023 saw the first annual decrease in fatal drug overdoses since 2018. In Indiana, 725 people have died from drug abuse so far in 2024.

Research shows people who have at least one overdose are likely to have another.

Know the signs of an overdose Overdoses can be hard to identify. If someone is unsure, it is best to treat the situation like an overdose.

t has been an honor to oversee this newspaper for a semester. We published stories that exposed sexual harassment and assault and gave voice to the vulnerable. We covered Election Day from the unopposed school board races to what Bloomingtonians thought of the presidential election. We documented the IU Funding Board’s overdraft, cuts to the Center for Research on Race and Ethnicity and the semester-long closure of Dunn Meadow. We reported on a stunning, record-breaking season of IU Football. A lot has happened this semester, and we hope we did a good job keeping the public informed. Next semester, we plan to do even better. Things may look a bit different next semester. We’ll have seven regular newspapers next semester, each falling two or three weeks apart. This may be a change for some of our more dedicated print readers, but we encourage them to still pick up copies of the IDS when they appear and to read what we publish online, where we will continue to provide 24/7 news.

If you want a reminder to check the IDS, you can get some of the top stories delivered daily or weekly to your email inbox by subscribing to our free newsletters.

Though print publication will be reduced, readers can expect exciting new initiatives from the IDS. We plan to engage more directly with student organizations and the broader community so we can ensure we’re covering the news that people want the most. We want to hear your ideas, questions and concerns – we’re here to teach students how to be good journalists, but we’re also here to serve the community.

We have a weekly news podcast we want to expand as well as talented videographers on staff who are excited to produce short, documentary-style content about community arts or

news. We’re striving to improve our coverage of city and county governance, take on hard-hitting investigations with local impact and improve our financial position so the community will no longer have to worry about losing another source of news.

For this week’s edition of the IDS, and the last printed weekly edition until at least Fall 2025, we have decided to feature stories that illustrate resources for Bloomingtonians currently experiencing homelessness during this harsh winter weather. Since this newspaper will stay in the stands until students return from break, we hope it can be useful for

anyone who needs it for the next few weeks.

In the meantime, please read the IDS and let us know how we can be better at editor@idsnews.com. If you’re a local business owner, consider advertising with us by emailing advertise@ idsnews.com, whether it’s online, to our thousands of social media followers, our robust print audience or in one of our newsletters.

Marissa Meador CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jacob Spudich CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

According to the National Harm Reduction Coalition, signs of an overdose include, but are not limited to:

Loss of consciousness

• Being unresponsive to outside stimulus

• Being awake, but unable to talk

• Breathing is very slow and shallow, erratic or has stopped

For lighter skinned people, the skin tone turns bluish purple, and for darker skinned people, it turns grayish or ashen

• Vomiting

SEE OVERDOSE, PAGE 4

Local government resources for housing support

By Mia Hilkowitz mhilkowi@iu.edu | @MiaHilkowitz

Bloomington has dozens of nonprofit and independent organizations offering resources for people struggling with homelessness, ranging from groups offering emergency shelter to those providing free health services. However, some City of Bloomington and Monroe County government departments offer similar resources and services.

Bloomington Community and Family Resources Department

The City of Bloomington CFRD maintains a guide of downtown resources for residents experiencing homelessness. The guide includes a map of downtown Bloomington with symbols and numbers showing the location of vari-

ous nonprofits and organizations. The guide includes contact information and addresses for around two dozen groups, including shelters offering emergency housing to food pantries to harm reduction services. People can request a paper copy of the guide, free of charge, by contacting cfrd@bloomington. in.gov.

The CFRD website also maintains an updated list of resources for individuals who need rental assistance and eviction resources. This website links to an Indiana rental assistance application, applications to receive free attorney services and an eviction prevention guide. CFRD liaisons familiar with these resources can be reached at 812-349-3430 or findhelp@bloomington. in.gov.

Bloomington Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development

According to HAND’s homeowners and renters guide, individuals who complete HAND’s renter education class can apply for security deposit assistance up to $500. The class is open and free to all Bloomington renters and helps participants learn about various tenant and landlord rights. The course also teaches participants how to manage finances and the costs of renting and provides information about the city’s rules.

The next class will be from 6-8 p.m. Jan. 28, 2025, in the Dogwood Room in the Indiana Memorial Union. Those interested can register for the class by visiting bton.in/ R101a.

The city’s HAND de-

partment provides several loans and grants to some homeowners and renters in Bloomington. More information on these loans — which offer assistance for home repairs, closing costs and security deposits — are available on the department’s website.

The HAND department can be reached at 812-3493420 or hand@bloomington.in.gov.

Monroe County Health Department

The county health department, in partnership with the IU Health Bloomington Hospital, operates a public health clinic throughout the week at 333 E. Miller Drive. The clinic offers most of its services for free or low cost. According to the clinic’s website, it

Winter resources for the unhoused

By Gentry Keener gekeener@iu.edu

Editor’s note: This article was originally published Nov. 14, 2024.

According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, people experiencing homelessness have a much higher risk of developing exposure-related conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite than the general public. These conditions can quickly become life threatening.

The NCH’s Winter Service report in 2010 found that 700 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness die from hypothermia each year in the United States.

As the months get colder, with snow and harsh weather on the horizon, Bloomington has a variety of resources for those who may be experiencing homelessness. These resources offer food and shelter along with warm clothing and supplies to protect against harsh weather.

If you need shelter and sleep

Wheeler Mission - 215 S. Westplex Ave. Bloomington, IN 47404

During the winter, Wheeler Mission serves 800-1,000 guests per night, over 300 more guests than during non-winter months. They have 258 emergency service beds, with 100 overflow beds available in the men’s shelter, plus 68 emergency shelter beds for women and children and 125 overflow beds.

The shelter is “come-asyou-are,” and Wheeler Mission doesn’t run drug tests or background checks on guests.

A Friend’s Place - 919 S. Rogers St. Bloomington, IN 47402

A Friend’s Place is a year-round, nonreligious emergency shelter for adults. It provides 40 beds per night with at least 20 reserved for women. The shelter opens daily at 5:15

pm. Guests must not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

New Hope for Families - 1140 S. Morton St. Bloomington, IN 47403

New Hope for Families is the only shelter in Monroe County where families with children can find shelter together. It provides emergency shelter for up to 12 families at a time and helps them transition from homelessness to stability.

Middle Way House - 338 S. Washington St. Bloomington, IN 47401

Middle Way House provides transitional care and shelter for women and children. It focuses on helping those who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Middle Way House created a community of 28 two- and three-bedroom apartments for women and their children to help them transition out of violent relationships.

If you need food

Community Kitchen (two locations) - 1515 S. Rogers St. Bloomington, IN 47403

1100 W. 11th St. (Express location) Bloomington, IN 47404

Community Kitchen offers dinner from 4-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday all year long. Both locations offer hot or cold meals, but the express location offers carryout meals. They also have a community food truck that offers warm meals at changing locations found on their website.

Wheeler Mission Daily Food Service - 215 S. Westplex Ave. Bloomington, IN 47404

In addition to its emergency shelters, Wheeler Mission also serves meals three times a day, every day of the week. Breakfast service is from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., while lunch service is from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. and dinner service is from 4:15 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Shalom Community Center (Phil’s Kitchen)620 S. Walnut St. Bloomington, IN 47401

Phil’s Kitchen is part of the Shalom Center and provides breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday. Breakfast is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and lunch

provides some vaccines and immunizations to adults without insurance coverage for free.

The clinic is open for appointments from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The clinic is also open from 8-11 a.m. the second Saturday of the month by appointment. To schedule an appointment and learn more about the available screenings and immunizations, call 812-353-3244.

The health department also has harm reduction and substance abuse resources. The health department offers free Narcan nasal spray, fentanyl/Xylazine test strips and training for how to use these items. To access these resources, call 812-349-2722. The health department also includes a list of places people can get

is from noon to 1:30 p.m.

They are also open on holidays from 8 a.m. to noon and serve one meal.

If you need clothes and supplies Salvation Army - 111 N. Rogers St. Bloomington, IN 47404

The Salvation Army has many programs, including a food pantry and thrift store. The thrift store offers low-cost clothing and miscellaneous supplies to the community. They also offer vouchers twice per year for six items per person.

My Sister’s Closet - 414 S. College Ave., Bloomington, IN 47403

On top of being a resale boutique offering low-cost clothing, My Sister’s Closet also offers vouchers. Women may receive clothing, undergarments and basic hygiene products with a voucher valid for up to five items for interview and workplace attire.

New Leaf-New Life1010 S. Walnut St. Suite H. Bloomington, IN 47401

New Leaf-New Life provides clothing, hygiene products, bus tickets and basic information about jobs and social services for formerly incarcerated persons.

If you are in crisis and need a place to access resources

Middle Way House - 338 S. Washington St., Bloomington, IN 47401

Middle Way House has a 24/7 help and crisis line at (812) 336-0846. It also offers 24/7 walk in services, an emergency shelter, sexual assault support, legal advocacy and support groups.

The STRIDE Center312 N. Morton St. Bloomington, IN, 47404

The STRIDE Center provides a safe place for those seeking resources during transition from hospitals or jails. The program is open 24/7 and is a safe environment with staff professionally trained in harm reduction, trauma-informed care and crisis intervention.

doses of naloxone and testing strips on its website. The health department also partners with Indiana Recovery Alliance to operate a syringe service program, which offers sterile needles, safe disposal of needles and syringes, HIV and hepatitis testing, education on overdose prevention and other resources. The program runs from noon to 2 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays at the Shalom Community Center (620 S. Walnut St.), as well as noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday and 2:15-3:15 p.m. Fridays at Crawford Apartments (2440 S. Henderson St.). The Indiana Recovery Alliance also operates the program from 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 118 S. Rogers St.

Dunn Meadow reopens after 136 days of closure

By Benjamin LeGrand benlegra@iu.edu | @’benlegrand11

A crew of IU facilities workers took down the fence around Dunn Meadow on Dec. 16 after 136 days of closure, with four days left in the semester.

The workers began just before 11:30 a.m. as it rained, taking apart the fence and loading it into a Master Rental truck. The fence was fully taken down by 12:45 p.m.

The meadow was closed after damages sustained during the pro-Palestinian encampment in the spring and summer. A message sent to the IU community in August from the Vice President of Capital Planning and Facilities, Thomas Morrison, said that heavy use of the space in April, and the placement of temporary structures necessitated the resurfacing of the meadow and repairs to the subsurface irrigation system.

According to a press release on IU Bloomington Today, the facilities team repaired the sub-surface irrigation system and installed new turf in the meadow. There are also new dual black bulbs on two lampposts around the meadow, which appear to be security cameras. In a December article from the Herald Times, IUPD refused to comment on the installation of new cameras.

The announcement also

says that the meadow will be available for reservation next semester.

IU Executive Director for Media Relations Mark Bode said in a previous Indiana Daily Student article that initial estimates for the repairs were $100,000, with the possibility of increase throughout the project. The IDS filed a public records request in October and obtained contracts for the fence and turf. The contract for the turf, installation, delivery and other charges totaled $86,600. A contract for a fourmonth rental of the fencing from Master Rental surrounding the meadow and other costs was $20,040.38 and listed an approximate “ending” of Dec. 1. There was no return or mention of contracts relating to the irrigation system in the records request. Dunn Meadow had been IU’s designated free speech zone since 1969 after a negotiation between anti-Vietnam protesters and then-Dean of Students Robert Shaffer. Structures were prohibited in Dunn Meadow after an ad hoc committee changed the policy the night before April’s encampment, on April 24. Camping and non-approved structures are now prohibited after the IU Board of Trustees passed a new Expressive Activity Policy, which went

IDS FILE PHOTO

New Hope for Families is seen Nov. 30, 2021, at 301 W. Second St. New Hope for Families was founded in 2011, according to its website.

JACK FORREST | IDS

People walk on the sidewalk near Dunn Meadow on Dec. 16, 2024, in Bloomington. The meadow reopened Dec. 16 after being fenced since Aug. 2.

IU ROTC promotes competency using sports science

By Ella Curlin elcurlin@iu.edu

From September to November, Louis Knable, an IU Bloomington Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadet, started his Tuesday and Friday training as early as 5 a.m.

“That was a mix of like strength training, endurance training and then honing in on some of the military skills,” Knable said.

Knable, a junior studying on a pre-med track, is a team member for the IU Ranger Challenge. This is a varsity sport within Army ROTC in which groups of cadets form teams and compete with other programs from their region in tests of physical and mental resilience. Being a team member means early mornings and hours of extra training.

“It’s challenging, especially having to wake up early and also manage school, extracurriculars and social life,” Knable said. “But it’s rewarding in the same sense because you’re putting in all this extra work, and it’s really nice to see the benefits and the growth.”

Knable is one of around 120 cadets in IU Bloomington Army ROTC, a program that provides elective training for army officership alongside four-year degree programs. ROTC programs offer various financial or experiential benefits for students who commit to multiple years of military service after graduation.

These programs operate in colleges across the country, engaging thousands of cadets in training curriculums aimed at pushing them toward military standards of physical and mental readiness.

But IU Bloomington’s

program looks different than most.

“Our program is definitely the only one that has an athletic trainer and a strength and conditioning coach in our brigade, but as far as we know, we think we’re the only ones in the country,” Braden Singleton, an IU military science and strength and conditioning coach, said.

Singleton joined the program in 2012, having previously worked as a tactical strength and conditioning coach for the U.S. Department of Defense, where he worked with the Navy SEALs and Special Forces. He now works with IU ROTC clinical athletic trainer Chris Thompson to oversee cadets’ health and fitness.

Singleton and Thompson’s role in the program is a resource for cadets’ training that sets the IU ROTC apart. But the IU program is also distinct in how it uses those resources.

After 2021, Singleton began to rewrite key aspects of the program’s training. Assistant Professor of Military Science Lt. Col. Timothy Walton said these changes came in response to a shift in the world of military strength and conditioning. In 2018, the U.S. Army sought to improve combat preparedness and injury prevention with a program called the “Holistic Health and Fitness System,” or H2F.

Walton said the army is adapting to modern sports science by expanding wellness programs to address elements like nutrition, mental health and sleep.

For IU Army ROTC, the adaptation has prompted a reconsideration of the program’s training goals. After 2021, instructors modified the program to emphasize

long-term physical progress and increase direct mentorship from coaches and trainers.

Singleton — who holds a master’s in sports psychology and a doctorate in human performance — uses specialty equipment like maces and kettlebells to gather information on cadets’ physical progress. This information allows instructors to assess and improve their training methods.

“We’re able to also collect data on the cadets to ensure that our sports science exercise prescription and rehabilitation protocol is objectively sound,” Singleton said.

Nate Jenkins, an IU sophomore in the ROTC program, participates in specialized training for the Ranger Chal-

lenge team, which integrates a variety of techniques like Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics and mobility training.

“I feel like combining by those you get more of a holistic fitness experience,” Jenkins said.

The program also added instruction from William Ramos, an expert in aquatics and drowning prevention. Ramos helps the cadets prepare for the Combat Water Survival Test, a military qualification test involving activities such as swimming and diving with military gear.

Ramos’ direction has improved cadets’ success in the water.

“When we started, I think we were about probably a 40% or 50% pass rate, and now we’re in the high 90%,”

IU TikTokers weigh in on possible ban

By Natalia Nelson nelsonnb@iu.edu

With a law set to ban

TikTok in the United States in January, the end of the short-form video app for U.S. users is on the horizon.

The legislation was signed into law in April. It stated that unless TikTok’s Chinese parent company ByteDance divests from the app by Jan. 19, 2025, app stores and web hosting services would have to remove it from their platforms.

Thirty-nine states have already restricted TikTok on government devices, and the app has long been under fire for its ties to China, user privacy concerns and its potential to fuel or hide certain content, contributing to misinformation.

Though TikTok petitioned to overturn the law, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the legislation. TikTok and ByteDance filed an emergency injunction on Dec. 9, asking for a temporary pause on the law to give the Supreme Court time to review the case. However, the appeals court rejected the plea on Friday.

President-elect Donald Trump has promised to save TikTok, though his transition team has not released details as to how.

“The only reason they are getting singled out is because the connection to the Chinese government,” Lois Scheidt, an adjunct instructor at IU whose research focuses on digital ethics, intellectual freedom and social media policy, said. “To my knowledge, they are doing nothing that is significantly different than what Facebook does and X.” Scheidt said the concern with TikTok was over the fact the U.S. government had no way to control how ByteDance, TikTok or China could potentially use user data.

“If they were looking long-term and really worried about users, then the answer is, we need data protection laws,” Scheidt said. She is skeptical TikTok’s removal would truly impact internet culture longterm.

“Online platforms ceasing to exist, or ceasing for

certain people to have access to them, is not new,” Scheidt said. “Some people will find a new home. Some people will choose not to, and some people will be resentful.”

IU has several influencers on the app in its student body, with some creating college-related and IUspecific content. IU Bloomington even has its own TikTok account with over 50,000 followers.

Ava Wilson is a sophomore studying media advertising who has been a TikTok user since it was called Musical.ly. Musical.ly was bought by ByteDance in 2017, then merged and rebranded to become TikTok. She began creating content after she saw Alix Earle’s “get ready with me” videos where Earle talked about her life while doing her hair and makeup.

Wilson said during her senior year of high school, she made Christmas gift guide videos under her account, @avaawilsonnnn, that started to gain traction.

“It really all took off, kind of like, I feel like the career out of it was when I started focusing on college content,” Wilson said. “Because a lot of companies right now are focused on collegiate marketing.”

Wilson now has over 30,000 followers, and her most popular video was

viewed over 8 million times. Since gaining a following, she’s done gifted campaigns where companies send her clothes in exchange for videos showcasing the products. She’s also done paid campaigns and ambassadorships. She’s now part of the TikTok creator fund, a program that pays influencers two to four cents per thousand views.

As for a potential ban, Wilson said she wasn’t sure how worried she should be.

“I mean, we’ve had so many like scares of that TikTok is going to be banned, but I’ve heard this time it’s a little more serious,” Wilson said. “I have thought about maybe doing like Instagram Reels more. I’ve only ever done Instagram Reels for brands, but I would be open to it.”

She said she preferred the convenience of TikTok over the formality of platforms like Instagram and YouTube.

“YouTube can be hard to like, navigate, and videos take so long to edit, whereas TikTok, I just kind of hop on and can post within minutes,” Wilson said.

YouTube currently boasts the most users of the three platforms with 2.5 billion, while Instagram has 2 billion and TikTok has 1.6 billion. While YouTube is known for its longer video content, and Instagram

for photo sharing, the two platforms give creators the option to post short-form content with the release of Shorts and Reels.

Halle Hood is a sophomore marketing major who has over 50,000 followers on her TikTok, @halleberry111, where she posts mostly lifestyle, fashion and day-in-the-life content. She has nine videos with over 1 million views.

Since she started creating more content in 2023, she’s collaborated with companies including Bloom Nutrition and clothing brand Edikted. She’s earned sales commissions, as well as joined the TikTok Creator Fund.

“Being able to earn money has definitely helped me manage becoming independent as I entered my second year of college being off campus now,” Hood said. “For little things like groceries, gas.”

She said a ban wouldn’t affect her life “desperately,” but she could see it having repercussions for creators who depend on the app to make a living. If the ban were to go through, she said she’d likely switch over to YouTube.

“I don’t think the app’s culture will ever die down,” Hood said. “While everyone shifts to other apps, I think followers, creators and app developers will slowly adapt to creating another version of TikTok.”

Ramos said.

Additionally, Thompson’s work as a clinical athletic trainer focuses on injury prevention, treatment and education.

“My goal is to not only treat injuries but also to try to determine what risk is present for injuries, and to try to stay ahead in the curve, identify them and mitigate or prevent the risk of injury as much as possible,” Thompson said.

That is a resource Knable said can be vital for the cadets’ progress.

“There have been times while I’m here that I was in our trainer’s office three days a week doing treatment,” Knable said. “(That resource) is something that is unique to IU and directly related to our

success.” Jenkins said the current approach to training is effective in part due to the leadership of both instructors and fellow cadets, which encourages students to prioritize their overall wellbeing.

“(It’s) been able to boost morale, while also making sure people strive towards betterment, whether that be physically or academically,” Jenkins said.

Like Knable, Jenkins trains extra hours each week as part of the Ranger Challenge. He said he has enjoyed seeing cadets put in the additional work necessary to participate in that team.

“Everybody’s just working on getting better, and they’re doing it together,” Jenkins said.

Coyotes in Bloomington

How to keep your pets safe

By Ella Curlin elcurlin@iu.edu

A recent social media post claimed a coyote has been sighted south of the IU Bloomington campus.

Virgil Sauder, director of Bloomington Animal Care and Control, said sightings like this are typical for any city. The coyote could be a young adult moving to a different territory or could be drawn to an area with shelter or food. Coyotes also become more active during winter.

But how should residents with pets keep their animals safe?

Sauder said while coyotes pose little risk to humans or larger animals, he advises residents to supervise while their pets are outside.

“The best thing to do with pets is to be with them,” Sauder said.

He said residents should be especially aware during dawn and dusk and that owners of outdoor cats should bring them inside.

Sauder said coyotes are naturally cautious and typically avoid humans. If residents encounter them, Sauder recommends scaring them off.

“What people can do is bang pots and pans, yell at them, wave their hands in the air, things to kind of frighten

them away,” Sauder said. “That’s actually a good thing to do because it kind of keeps them wary and away from people.”

To avoid attracting coyotes to an area, Sauder said he recommends residents be aware of what they leave outside. Coyotes will prey on rats or mice, meaning they may be drawn to areas with large amounts of garbage. They may also visit areas where residents leave food for outdoor pets.

Sauder said while Animal Care and Control does not intervene when coyotes are behaving normally, residents should report coyotes with unusual behavior or an injury.

“If you encounter injured wildlife or coyotes that are behaving overly friendly or not as wary with people, we want to hear about that too,” Sauder said. “A coyote that loses its fear is going to be more dangerous.” Residents can find more information about coyotes on the Bloomington Animal Care and Control website or online through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. To request assistance with an animal-related emergency within city limits, residents can contact Animal Control at 812-339-1444.

BRIANA PACE | IDS

Nate Jenkins, an IU sophomore in the ROTC program, trains for the Army Ranger Challenge on Dec. 10, 2024, in Bloomington. Training began at 6

a.m. that morning.

TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE

A coyote is pictured in Liberty Canyon, California. Virgil Sauder, director of Bloomington Animal Care and Control, said coyote sightings are typical for any city.

For full information on how to distinguish an overdose, read the NHRC’s opioid overdose basics. According to the NHRC, it is rare for someone to die immediately from an overdose.

When people survive, it is because someone was there to respond.

Test your drugs

Fentanyl test strips are small strips of paper that can detect the presence of fentanyl in different drugs.

The IRA has free fentanyl test strips. The IRA is located at 1710 W. Third St. and conducts outreach at Shalom Center and Crawford Apartments, with hours available at their website indianarecoveryalliance.org. A person can take as many test strips as they want.

The Monroe County Health Department, located at 119 W. Seventh St., also offers free test strips, which people can get by calling

(812) 349-2722. Drug test strips can also be bought at CVS. Never Use Alone

Harm reduction advocacy organizations, including the IRA, encourage those who use not to use alone. Using alone increases the risk of a fatal overdose.

Never Use Alone is a hotline available nationwide that aims to reduce these risks by having someone available over the phone who can help establish a safety plan and get emergency medical help if needed. It is confidential and the caller’s information is never shared. Call 877-6961996 to access this hotline.

Have Narcan on hand Narcan is the name brand of naloxone hydrochloride. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Narcan is a medicine that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose, which can save someone’s life. Naloxone can be administered as a nasal spray or injected into a muscle, un-

der the skin or into the veins. Steps for using Naloxone and responding to an opioid overdose can be found at SAMHSA.gov.

The Monroe County Jail Lobby at 301 N. College Ave. offers free Narcan nasal spray 24/7. There is no appointment or interaction with staff required. Enter the lobby from the alley between the parking garage and the Monroe County Justice building.

The IRA and Monroe County Health Department also offer free Narcan. For the IRA, call 812-567-2337, and pick up from Naloxbox installed outside of office or drop-in during SSP outreach hours.

The IU Student Health Center offers free Naloxone at the IU Substance Use Intervention Services at 625 N. Eagleson Ave. No prior appointment is needed to go pick one up.

Narcan can be bought at CVS stores.

To administer Narcan via the nasal route, tilt their head back and spray the drug into

one nostril. To administer the injectable version, inject it into the individual’s thigh muscle. Once you administer Narcan, wait a few minutes before giving another dose and do not administer more doses than necessary as they can make the individual sick. Stay with the person until they wake up and ensure they do not use opioids, as the effects of the opioids that caused the initial overdose may return. If you cannot stay, turn the person on their side so they do not choke.

Rescue breathing

Rescue breathing is essential whether someone has Narcan on hand or not. According to Voyles, the best course of action is to dispense a dose of Narcan if it is on hand and then begin rescue breathing until medical help arrives or the person comes to and is breathing normally.

Rescue breathing consists of getting the person on their back, tipping their head back to straighten the airway,

pinching their nose, putting your mouth over theirs to form a seal, and then providing one breath every five seconds.

“If you’re not rescue breathing you are essentially green lighting brain damage,” Voyles said. “There is no other way to put it, you could literally rescue breath for eight hours until the drugs metabolized.”

However, he emphasized there should be no chest compressions in overdose rescue breathing because it could lead to further complications such as a cracked chest.

“When somebody overdoses, their heart doesn’t stop but they do stop breathing,” IRA Deputy Director Liz Curran-Groome said.

Substance Abuse Hotline For substance abuse treatment and mental health referrals, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Physicians

Bloomington Meadows offers inpatient and outpatient care. A no cost assessment may be scheduled to discuss the best treatment options. The assessment is offered to anyone regardless of insurance. It can be reached at 833-902-2410. Further treatment charges vary from patient to patient and are based on insurance. • Milestones – 550 S. Adams St. Milestone is an outpatient mental health clinic. It can be reached at 812-333-6324. To make an appointment individuals must complete an intake paperwork that is available on their website. Milestone does not have a sliding fee scale and payments are due at the time of service. For those currently using drugs who are in need of clean needles, Narcan and other harm-reduction services, check out the Indiana Recovery Alliance at indianarecoveryalliance.org or the IDS’

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Jackson Creek Dental is conveniently located on South College Mall Road. Most insurances accepted, including the Indiana University Cigna Insurance plans as well as the IU Fellowship Anthem. Dr. Tschetter and Dr. Hoye offer state of the art dental technology such as Zoom whitening, same day crown appointments, and Invisalign. We also provide restorative, cosmetic and emergency care. We pride ourselves in giving the best care to our patients while offering a pleasant yet professional atmosphere.

Ryan D. Tschetter, DDS

Lauren R. Hoye, DDS

Jackson Creek Dental is conveniently located on South College Mall Road. Most insurances accepted, including the Indiana University Cigna Insurance plans as well as the IU Fellowship Anthem. Dr. Tschetter and Dr. Hoye offer state of the art dental technology such as Zoom whitening, same day crown appointments, and Invisalign. We also provide restorative, cosmetic and emergency care. We pride ourselves in giving the best care to our patients while offering a pleasant yet professional atmosphere.

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Dr. Andrew Jones, Dr. Marzia Zamani, Cheyenne Brown, Megan Sipes, Milli Nally, Kenzy Hawkins, Christina Thompson

Dr. Tavel Family Eyecare is your partner in your personal eyecare journey. Since 1940, the company has believed that every Hoosier deserves quality eyecare and vision solutions at an affordable price. Dr. Tavel offers comprehensive eye exams, special testing, management of eye diseases, glasses, contact lenses and much more, all backed by an insurance acceptance guarantee. The company is committed to advancing eye health by investing in the latest technology and providing treatments that are right for every patient’s unique needs.

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Dr. Starr is an Indiana University Football Alum who provides pain-free experiences for all Hoosiers with IV sedation. He performs specialized oral surgery services including Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Dental Implants, Bone Grafting, and Plasma Therapy. Equipped with modern 3-D technology, he has the most up-todate surgical skills and techniques to accomplish beautiful results with his patients. He looks forward to accomplishing beautiful results with his patients, enhancing confidence and satisfaction for all he serves. Go Hoosiers! We look forward to taking care of you!

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Vibrant Life specializes in hormone replacement therapy and medical aesthetics. Vibrant Life is pleased to offer personalized care, employing the latest medical technology. Services include: hormone therapy, neuromodulators (botox, dysport), dermafillers, microneedling, laser hair removal, age spot reduction, blue light acne treatment, treatment for urinary incontinence and much more. Come visit us and start living a more Vibrant Life today! Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Lunch Break : Noon - 1:30 p.m.

BRIANA PACE | IDS

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office is pictured Dec. 10, 2024, in Bloomington. The Monroe County Coroner Office recorded an increase in fatal accidental overdoses from September through October this year.

The story of ‘Wicked’ has always been political

First, a kid-adjacent-totheatre confession: despite years of participating in theatrical productions in some capacity or another, I knew next to nothing about “Wicked” prior to seeing the movie adaptation this Thanksgiving break. I had heard of the musical, certainly, and I knew it was somehow related to the classic “Wizard of Oz” movie, but that was the extent of my knowledge. Yes, I know, a travesty, but I am not here to submit myself to the judgment of my peers (however deserved that judgement may be).

I will, however, never miss an opportunity to play dress-up. So, in an effort to keep with the theme, I donned my ruby red slippers from a freshman year Halloween costume and a dark green sweater and went with a few friends to see what all the hubbub was about. Was the movie worth the hype?

Why are Ariana Grande and

Cynthia Erivo always crying during their interviews? And what on Earth does it even mean to “hold space for the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’?

At first, the movie seems to be a fun, frenemies to besties “girl-power” story about witches, wizards and talking animals — the tale of two very different girls navigating college and roommate struggles, juggling boy problems and academics. However, as the movie progressed, I started to notice deeper themes and perhaps some political similarities between the Land of Oz and our “Land of the Free.”

Readers of Gregory Maguire’s original 1995 book probably felt the same way. Maguire’s book reimagines Oz as a society riddled with oppression and injustice where the “wonderful” wizard himself is an Adolf Hitler-esque dictator. Themes of systemic discrimination and oppression permeate the story, with the famous yellow-brick road being built by munchkin slave labor and the plight of the animals

which many have equated with the Holocaust. To further make his point, the names “Wicked” and “Hitler” both have two syllables and six letters with two of them in common. When asked in an interview if readers could infer a connection between the title of his book and the world’s most reviled villain of the past century, Maguire made clear that “that was no accident”.

The musical adaptation, though slightly softened, retained its political edge. Written during the transitions between the presidencies of Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, it weaves sharp commentary on power and propaganda. The Wizard’s character and songs, such as when he sings “Is one a crusader or ruthless invader?” reflects critiques of both administrations. The “crusader” lyric is no accident; It’s a direct reference to Bush-era Iraq War rhetoric, such as when Bush referred to the “crusades” to describe his war in Iraq. Even Galinda’s description of Dorothy’s house crushing the Wicked

Witch of the East as a “regime change”, another Iraq war phrase, is perhaps one of the musical’s most deliberate political double entendres.

As I watched the movie, what stood out the most to me was the stark contrast in how Galinda, a white woman of great privilege and upperclass background, and Elphaba, who has spent her entire life as someone marginalized for the color of her skin, respond to the Wizard and Madame Morrible’s attempts to silence the talking animals. Their reactions to this injustice, and to the realization that their government is deeply corrupt and broken, highlight their vastly different perspectives shaped by their backgrounds. Galinda immediately tries to reason and negotiate with the oppressors, “groveling in submission to feed [her] own ambition”, as Elphaba puts it. Galinda makes no attempt to change the broken system, just to share in its power. Elphaba, on the other hand, recognizes the system for what it is — unfixable.

LEILA’S LENS

She knows there is no way for her to participate in this broken government without aiding its oppression, and so, she leaves. She is unwilling to work with Madame Morrible or the Wizard, and so they label her a terrorist, turning everyone she knows against her.

“Wicked,” to put it simply, has always been about how people respond when faced with blatant injustice. It compels its audience to critically examine who society labels “wicked” and why. It challenges us to confront the very question Galinda asks at the story’s beginning: “How does someone become wicked?”

As she ponders this question, she reflects, “Are people really born wicked, or is wickedness thrust upon them?”

By exploring this complex moral question, “Wicked” reveals that the line between good and evil is often shaped by perspective and circumstance.

Furthermore, it’s a political declaration of how obvious the signs are of a dictator’s rise to power. Early

in the story, when Dr. Dillamond (a literal scapegoat) explains to Elphaba what is happening to the animals, she asks “could this really happen?” to which he responds, “It already is.” The reality of the situation, for Oz and America, is that the signs are always there from the beginning.

“Wicked” urges us to recognize the recurring patterns in both the world and American politics. These cycles, all too familiar, often feature weak and manipulative leaders who exploit the fears of a struggling society by scapegoating marginalized groups for their own gain, aiming for total control. As the Wizard chillingly puts it, “the best way to bring folks together is to give them a really good enemy.” Those who challenge such systems face harsh consequences, reinforcing the dangers of unchecked power. The signs of these cycles are always there from the start — for those willing to look behind the curtain.

ainsfrost@iu.edu

On the Clock: What are we putting on our Christmas wish lists?

Leila Faraday (she/her) is a junior studying policy analysis with minors in geography and urban planning.

What ever happened to the simplicity of “all I want for Christmas is my two front teeth”?

These days, I open TikTok to see young adults making videos asking their followers something like, “what are you all asking for for Christmas?!” or showing the list they have compiled.

Many of these creators appear to be in their midto-late twenties. Excuse my judgment, however, I really feel like by this age, you have got to have bigger priorities than writing up a list of things you want from your parents or partner.

This is not meant to needlessly criticize these creators — it is obviously okay to want things and to give and receive gifts — it simply feels like excessive consumption has poisoned the spirit of every aspect of our lives.

Jack Davis (he/him) is a sophomore studying journalism.

As the holiday season approaches, there’s a familiar sight that comes with it: the steady stream of packages arriving on our doorsteps. We’re used to the ease of online shopping from sites such as Amazon, which provide anything you may need. It’s a fast and convenient solution to gift-giving during a stressful season. But this year, as the holiday season begins to unfold, my family has decided to make an extra effort to shop locally. In Bloomington, there’s a treasure trove of local

I am not religious, and Christmas is not a particularly spiritually meaningful holiday to me. However, I see the value in cherishing it as time to spend with loved ones, put others before yourself and otherwise see light during dreary winter weather.

Christmas lists should be for children. When you are 6, you absolutely should write a letter to Santa Claus asking for a remote-controlled monster truck, a new doll or a Lego set. When you are 26, you should prioritize gifting to others, community service or time with family and friends during Christmas.

Just take the phrase “stocking stuffers.” I have seen videos of people giving tips on how to fill a stocking just for the sake of it being full. At what point did our values surrounding Christmas become so perverted that we are worried about filling a stocking up to the brim with plastic items that will likely end up in the land-

fill by next year?

Despite sounding like the Grinch, I do understand that material gift giving is very traditional for many families, and I will never change that by claiming that it is shallow or childish. The idea behind giving gifts is obviously to show people you care about them — but in a time when people seem increasingly concerned about inflation and general affordability, we should redirect our focus away from maximizing material consumption. Additionally, it feels slightly less sentimental to simply send your parents or significant other a wish list with direct links the way many people do now — they are just sponsoring things you would want to buy anyways, rather than picking something out with you in mind or making a gift for you. If you find yourself desperately compiling a wish list this year to send to your parents, consider directing the

time and resources into local volunteering at places like food pantries or supporting initiatives like “Angel Trees,” through which you can help provide gifts for children or seniors through organizations like the Salvation Army or Prison Fellowship. I do not mean to dis-

JACK’S JAMS

courage gift giving entirely — it is a meaningful way to show people you love them.

This holiday season, look into homemade gifts, spend money thoughtfully with the goal of quality over quantity and come up with creative ways to show you care for the people you love. Do a deep clean of someone’s car or house, frame their favorite photos or make them a custom playlist on a CD or cassette. I promise you; they do not need more polyester and plastic things to take up space.

Shopping local this holiday season

businesses offering unique, thoughtful gifts that don’t have to break the bank. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how much potential there is right here in our own community for finding gifts that are personal, meaningful and often made with love by local artisans and entrepreneurs. Morgensterns Books is a great option for readers in your life, featuring an excellent selection of books and other gifts. It’s a place where you can discover the perfect read for anyone on your list, as well as puzzles, activity sets and other local products. There’s something special about browsing books

with a coffee at your local bookstore. And if Morgenstern’s doesn’t have what you’re looking for, the staff can always order it for you. For those looking to add a little pizzaz to their holiday gifts, badknees Tees has just what you need. Its quirky, locally designed shirts are a great gift for anyone. Whether it’s a funny slogan or an artistic design inspired by Bloomington itself, these shirts make a great gift for anyone with a sense of humor. The store also sells stickers, magnets and coffee mugs.

If you need a stocking stuffer or you have to get a gift for someone you

don’t know well, the locally owned popcorn store PopKorn is a solid option. They have all sorts of fun and interesting flavors such as chocolate mint, Peppermint Wonderland and the cherry flavored IU-themed Cream and Crimson popcorn. You can choose from five different sizes, so there’s something for all budgets. Shopping locally during the holidays offers benefits that positively impact both your community and your holiday experience. By supporting small, independently owned businesses, you help them thrive and keep money circulating within the local economy, which in

turn helps create jobs and strengthens your community. Shopping locally also reduces your environmental footprint by cutting down on shipping and packaging. When products are sourced locally, they don’t need to travel long distances, which means less fuel consumption and fewer greenhouse emissions. Local stores are often more environmentally conscious and sometimes even use recyclable packaging, further reducing waste. Amazon may be a convenient way to shop, but it feels good to support Bloomington businesses. As we navigate the holiday sea-

lfaraday@iu.edu

son, shopping locally offers a meaningful way to find thoughtful gifts but also an opportunity to make a positive impact here at home. By supporting Bloomington’s local businesses, we strengthen our community bonds, reduce our environmental impact and help fuel the growth of the local economy. The personal touch of a locally sourced gift carries its own value — whether it’s a carefully chosen book, a quirky T-shirt or a bag of delicious, handcrafted popcorn, Bloomington has your holiday shopping needs covered.

jjd5@iu.edu

Ainsley Foster (she/her) is a junior studying Elementary Education.

MOVIE STILLS DATABASE

Cynthia Erivo (left) and Ariana Grande act in “Wicked.” The 2003 musical adaptation of “Wicked” opened just months after the start of the Iraq War and functioned as a critique of neoconservative rhetoric.

1 5 2 3 4 7 8 9 6

Affordable Art Fair attracts veteran and new artists

By Lily Saylor saylorl@iu.edu

Local artists set up shop

Dec. 14 inside Sacred Heart Church to sell handcrafted paintings, pottery, jewelry and more at Bloomington’s Affordable Art Fair, all selling items for $25 or less.

Customers trickled in and were greeted at the door by Dan Caldwell, the pastor at Sacred Heart, who offered free coffee and tea, as well as “Pay What You’d Like” cookies to attendees.

“The [desserts] fits with our values of economic justice; we don’t want a person’s financial situation to exclude them,” Caldwell said, explaining the goal of selling “Pay What You’d Like” treats.

Caldwell said this was the first time the church opened its doors for the art fair event, although the fair has taken place at other locations in the past.

Past Caldwell’s booth of cookies and drinks was a space filled to the brim with vendors and customers, the room swelling with melodic piano music performed by Otis Cantrell Music.

One of the artists present was surrealist painter Amy Dunn, whose artwork can be purchased on her website. Dunn specializes in digital work for musicians creating album art. She also works with oil paintings, acrylic and watercolor. She sold colorful paintings at the event, including an abstract picture of a praying mantis. She also offered live

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec.

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paintings, which customers could choose the price of.

Weiss creates realistic paintings of locations, including a piece inspired by the pro-Palestinian Dunn Meadow encampment from this spring and summer. This is the piece they are most proud of. The painting depicted the grassy area of Dunn Meadow, with a Palestinian flag in the corner.

“It was a painting of something that came from a community coming together,” they said. The money from portraits Weiss sells goes toward various funds, including Black Lives Matter.

Weiss also created other abstract paintings of nature and people to sell at the market, including an eccentric scene of a rocket hurtling down from a bright pink sky.

Weiss explained painting and drawing is their favorite hobby to do in their downtime.

“The music art is really important because I’m able to get the albums before they’re released and listen to them,” Dunn said. “I get to work with a musician in a different way, because I’m making a visual for their music, so it’s like I have to blend my ear to their interpretation. It’s a process, but I really enjoy it.”

The Bloomington resident has been in business for 11 years and explained her creative method involves listening to music, especially sad music.

“My favorite album is ‘Ruminations’ by Conor Oberst, and it’s an extremely sad album, but I love to paint to that,” she said. “The sadder the music, the more I can express.”

Newer to the world of art markets, IU doctoral candidate Sasha Weiss has

been selling their artwork for a week.

“I’ve done a lot of art auctions for other causes for years, but I’ve only ever been doing art markets since last week,” Weiss said.

“A friend got me into it, and that gave me the confidence to keep doing it.”

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“It helps me feel like I can do something tangible in the world while it’s burning around me,” Weiss said. “There’s not that much I can do about that, but what I can do is hope that art can communicate the urgency of it.” Weiss added that in the future, they hope to continue putting art out into the world in order to communicate with others.

“I think that’s the purpose of art,” Weiss said. “That’s what I want my art to do: communicate with people.”

BLISS

HARRY BLISS

By Ursula Stickelmaier ustickel@iu.edu

After a long week of finals, there’s nothing more relaxing than curling up with a good book and a warm drink.

During the holiday season when the weather is freezing, the desire to stay warm and cozy is only enhanced. So, when you’re looking to grab a blanket and start reading, here are some great holiday books to get you through winter break.

“Blame It on the Mistletoe” (2021)

For fans of the 2006 winter romantic comedy

“The Holiday,” Beth Garrod’s “Blame It on the Mistletoe” is for you. Elle, a social media star, is looking to shake up her content with a challenge: find a British fan and swap places with them for the holidays. In comes Holly, a Christmas loving fan who wants nothing more than to escape for holidays after a truly embarrassing moment

COLUMN: Winter reads for winter break

under the mistletoe with her ex. Both women get more than they bargained for when they swap places. Not only do they learn more about themselves but they both fall in love while doing it. The dual point of views, swapping between Holly and Elle’s stories, makes for a fun and quick read. Both girls are in completely new environments and this makes for some really entertaining moments to read. This book is truly something out of a movie and what’s even better is all you have to do after it’s over is go to Amazon Prime, turn on “The Holiday,” and watch a similar romance play out.

“How to Excavate a Heart” (2022) All great love stories start with almost running someone else over with your car. At least that’s the case in the novel “How to Excavate a Heart” by Jake Maia Arlow. Shani, still healing from the break up with her exgirlfriend, is in Washington, D.C. for a paleoichthyology

internship (the study of prehistoric fish), over winter break when she runs into May — literally — with her car. Shani doesn’t expect to see May ever again but after she takes a dog-walking job the two are forced together again. Though it’s a rough start for the two women, both May and Shani begin to open up and find love where they didn’t expect it. Arlow, who grew up with two Ashkenazi Jewish parents, sets the entire book to a Jewish backdrop with both Shani and May coming from Jewish families. Overall, it’s a heartwarming story that is a great choice if you are looking for a book outside of the standard Christmas romance genre.

“My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories” (2014)

Written by 12 bestselling young adult authors and edited by Stephanie Perkins, “My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories” is the perfect choice for readers

who can’t decide. Each author contributed one short story to this anthology to give romance lovers the perfect read for the holidays. This collection includes 12 short stories about falling in love during the holidays.

One of my favorite stories was by Holly Black, author of “The Spiderwick Chronicles” and “Folk of the Air.” Her addition to the book, “Krampuslauf,” tells the story of Hanna and her friends when they participate in Krampuslauf, which is essentially a race that celebrates the anti-Santa Krampus by dressing up as him. During the race Hanna meets a cute boy, in a very realistic Krampus costume, and invites him to her New Year’s Eve party. When he shows up Hannah realizes there might be more behind his appearance and strange demeanor than she originally thought. You don’t get many stories about Krampus, at least not ones that wouldn’t be considered horror books

First United Church

2420 E. Third St. 812-332-4439 firstuc.org facebook.com/firstuc

Sunday: 10:30 a.m., Worship Monday: 10 a.m. via Zoom, Bible Study

We are an Open, Welcoming, and Affirming community of love and acceptance dedicated to welcoming the diversity of God’s beloved. We exist to empower, challenge, and encourage one another to live out Jesus’ ways (compassion, truth, and justice) authentically as human beings in community to create a better world.

Rev. Jessica Petersen-Mutai Senior Minister

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Bloomington Young Single Adult Branch

2411 E. Second St.

To Contact: Send message from website maps.churchofjesuschrist.org/ wards/237973

Sunday: 12:30 p.m.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has four congregations in Bloomington—Three family wards and our young single adult branch for college students. This info is for the YSA Branch. Weekday religious classes at 333 S. Highland Ave, Bloomington IN 47401, next to campus.

More info at churchofjesuschrist.org.

Lutheran - Missouri Synod

University Lutheran Church and LCMS U Student Center

607 E. Seventh St. 812-336-5387 indianalutheran.com facebook.com/ULutheranIU instagram.com/uluindiana

Sunday: 9:15 a.m.: Sunday Bible Class

10:30 a.m.: Sunday Divine Service

Wednesday:

7 p.m.: Wednesday Evening Service

Student Center open daily:

9 a.m. - 10 p.m.

The LCMS home of campus ministry at IU, our mission is to serve all college students with the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ, located across from Dunn Meadow and the IMU. The Student Center is open daily for study, recreation, and prayer. For full schedule, visit our website.

Rev. Timothy Winterstein - Campus Pastor

United Methodist

Jubilee

219 E. Fourth St. 812-332-6396 jubileebloomington.org

Facebook: First United Methodist Church of Bloomington, IN Instagram: @jubileebloomington

Sunday: 9:30 a.m., Classic Worship 11:45 a.m., Contemporary Worship Wednesday: 7:30 p.m., College & Young Adult Dinner

Jubilee is a Christ-centered community open and affirming to all. We gather on Wednesdays at First United Methodist (219 E. 4th St.) for free food, honest discussion, worship, and hanging out. Small groups, service projects, social events (bonfires, game nights, book clubs, etc.), outreach retreats, and leadership opportunities all play a significant role in our rhythm of doing life together.

Markus Dickinson - jubilee@fumcb.org

Inter-Denominational

Redeemer Community Church

111 S. Kimble Dr. 812-269-8975

redeemerbloomington.org facebook.com/RedeemerBtown

Instagram & Twitter: @RedeemerBtown

Sunday: 9 a.m., 11 a.m.

Redeemer is a gospel-centered community on mission. Our vision is to see the gospel of Jesus Christ transform everything: our lives, our church, our city, and our world. We want to be instruments of gospel change in Bloomington and beyond.

Chris Jones - Lead Pastor

in any way, so Black’s use of the German half-goat, half-demon monster was incredibly creative. But there are so many other great stories in this collection as well that readers will be able to find something for every mood over winter break.

“Three Holidays and a Wedding” (2023) Uzma Jalaluddin and Marissa Stapley bring readers a fun winter read set in Canada in their book “Three Holidays and a Wedding.” Set during a December where Christmas, Hanukkah and Eid all fall within days of each other, Jalaluddin and Stapley bring fans a heartwarming story about both friendship and love. Both Maryam Aziz and Anna Gibson are flying to Toronto for the holidays. But when a snowstorm hits, their plane makes an emergency landing in the cozy town of Snow Falls. Maryam, who was flying to Toronto to celebrate both her sister’s wedding and Eid with her family, feels stuck.

But unexpectedly she begins to reconnect with her former flame, Saif, who was also on his way to the wedding. Anna, still mourning the loss of her father, had plans to escape her overbearing stepmother for the holidays by spending Christmas with her wealthy boyfriend but finds an unexpected connection with Josh, an actor filming a movie in town. Both women deal with the challenges of their relationships and personal lives while helping Snow Falls put together their annual holiday show, incorporating Hanukkah and Eid into the performance, all while ensuring that Maryam’s sister’s wedding works out as well. It’s a chaotic journey for both women but one that is so worth reading. Though there are some heavy topics discussed, Jalaluddin and Stapley do a great job at bringing it all back to the warm holiday spirit that readers look for in these kinds of books.

American Restoration Movement

North Central Church of Christ

2121 N. Dunn St. 812-332-2248 nc3family.org Facebook.com/nc3family

Sunday: 10 a.m., Worship 11 a.m., College Class

Come learn about historic Christian teaching on theology, ethics, and culture. We offer an alternative to the post-modern ideologies and teachings you often see in your lives today.

Shane Himes, PHD - Senior Minister

Orthodox All Saints Orthodox Christian Church

6004 S. Fairfax Rd. 812-824-3600 allsaintsbloomington.org webbrk1@gmail.com Youtube video of services on website

Father Peter Jon Gillquist Thomas Przybyla - Pastoral Assistant

Christian Science Church 2425 E. Third St. 812-332-0536 bloomingtonchristianscience.com

to our church to explore how you can address issues spiritually and experience healing. Knowing God loves, guides and cares for each one gives a sense of peace and joy. We appreciate the Christian Science Monitor news magazine for its integrity, fairness and compassion.

(Christian Science Monitor) csmonitor.com Christian Science

Bloomington

Bahá'í Community and Bahá’í IU Association

424 S. College Mall Rd. 812-331-1863

bloomingtoninbahais.org facebook.com/Baháí-Community-ofBloomington-Indiana-146343332130574

Instagram:

Karen Pollock Dan Enslow Bahá'í Faith

that promote the "Oneness of Mankind" and the Peace and Harmony of the Planet through advancing the "security, prosperity, wealth and tranquility of all peoples."

MEN’S BASKETBALL

COLUMN: Indiana looked to be new. Ultimately, it reverted to the old

By Mateo Fuentes-Rohwer matfuent@iu.edu | @mateo_frohwer

It was a struggle for Indiana men’s basketball. But for a moment, it seemed it wouldn’t matter.

With just under seven minutes to go in the half, sixth-year senior center Oumar Ballo dished a pass to Luke Goode behind the arc. Without hesitation, the senior forward drilled the 3-pointer to make the score 68-67 in favor of Nebraska.

Goode’s basket was the final field goal of the game for Indiana.

In the final six minutes and 52 seconds, Nebraska outscored Indiana 17-1 en route to an 85-68 victory Dec. 13 at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The first five minutes and the last five minutes were the only stretches where In-

Check

diana looked the same it has for many conference road tests under head coach Mike Woodson –– and despite a much better effort for the other 30 minutes, the damage was too much to overcome.

After just two minutes, the Hoosiers faced an 8-0 scoreline. Three minutes later, it was 17-10. Not an insurmountable deficit, but a deficit nonetheless.

Recent memory suggested the rest of the game was predestined –– another tough conference road loss for Indiana against a mid-tier Big Ten team. It happened in a 66-57 loss to Nebraska on Jan. 3, 2024, and an 86-70 defeat to Rutgers on Jan 9. 2024, last season. It happened the year before, falling 63-48 to Rutgers on Dec. 3, 2022. But Indiana continued to fight back, ending the

Society of Friends (Quaker)

Bloomington Friends Meeting

3820 E. Moores Pike

812-336-4581

bloomingtonfriendsmeeting.org

Facebook: Bloomington Friends Meeting

Sunday (in person & Zoom) :

9:45 a.m., Hymn singing

10:30 a.m., Meeting for Worship

10:45 a.m., Sunday School

(Children join worship 10:30-10:45)

11:30 a.m., Refreshments and Fellowship

12:30 p.m., Events (see website)

Wednesday (Zoom Only) :

7 p.m., Meeting for worship for Peace

Friday (Zoom Only) :

9 a.m., Meeting for worship

We practice traditional Quaker worship, gathering in silence with occasional Spirit-led vocal ministry by fellow worshipers. We are an inclusive community with a rich variety of belief and no prescribed creed. We are actively involved in peace action, social justice causes, and environmental concerns.

Peter Burkholder - Clerk burkhold@indiana.edu

Non-Denominational

Christ Community Church

503 S. High St. 812-332-0502 cccbloomington.org

facebook.com/christcommunitybtown

Instagram: @christcommunitybtown

Sunday: 9:15 a.m., Educational Hour

10:30 a.m., Worship Service

We are a diverse community of Christ-followers, including many IU students, faculty and staff. Together we are committed to sharing the redeeming grace and transforming truth of Jesus Christ in this college town.

Bob Whitaker - Senior Pastor Adam deWeber - Worship Pastor Dan Waugh - Adult Ministry Pastor

Christian Student Fellowship

1968 N. David Baker Ave. 812-332-8972 csfindiana.org

Instagram: @csfindiana

Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Christian Student Fellowship (CSF) exists as a Christ-centered community focused on helping students truly know Jesus Christ. Our ministry operates from an on-campus house where students can live. Reach out to schedule a tour of the house or a visit to our Thursday night worship service!

Ben Geiger - Lead Campus Minister

Stephanie Michael - Campus Minister

Joe Durnil - Associate Campus Minister

Hailee Lutz - Office Manager

half down 3 to Nebraska. A serious hindrance for the Hoosiers was the absence of sophomore forward Mackenzie Mgbako, whose two fouls in the first 30 seconds of the game held him out of most of the half.

Indiana’s splits of 44.8% from the field and 33.3% from 3 severely lacked Nebraska’s splits of 65.2% from the field and 71.4% from behind the arc.

And yet, the margin was only 3. For stretches in the second half, Nebraska looked set to pull away and secure its first conference victory of the season. But each time it did, Indiana responded, most critically with redshirt sophomore guard Myles Rice who scored 12-straight points in a three-minute stretch.

So, when Goode drilled his 3-pointer with seven

City Church

1200 N. Russell Rd. 812-336-5958

citychurchbloomington.org

tiktok: @citychurchbtown

Instagram: @citychurchbtown

Sunday Service: 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:45 a.m.

City Church is a multicultural church on the east side of Bloomington. We provide transportation from campus. Our college and young adult ministry meets on Tuesday nights.

David Norris - Pastor

Sacred Heart Church

615 N. Fairview St. 812-345-5239 sacredheartbloomington.org facebook.com/sacredheartbloomington

Sunday:

10:30 a.m.: Refreshments and Fellowship

10:45 a.m.: Worship Service Tue., Wed., Thu.: Midweek Meals (Check Facebook)

Sacred Heart is a nondenominational church that seeks to follow Jesus by acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly with God. We strive to be a safe, inclusive community where you can bring your doubts, questions, struggles, and joys before a loving God and find true belonging. All are welcome!

Dan Caldwell

Episcopal (Anglican)

Canterbury Mission

719 E. Seventh St. 812-822-1335 IUCanterbury.org facebook.com/ECMatIU

Instagram & Twitter: @ECMatIU

Youtube: @canterburyhouseatiu9094

Sunday: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. Mon., Wed., Thu.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Noon - 8 p.m. Fri., Sat.: By Appointment

Canterbury: Assertively open & affirming; unapologetically Christian, we proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ by promoting justice, equality, peace, love and striving to be the change God wants to see in our world.

Ed Bird - Chaplain/Priest

Independent Baptist

Lifeway Baptist Church

7821 W. State Road 46 812-876-6072 lifewaybaptistchurch.org facebook.com/lifewayellettsville

Sunday: 9 a.m., Bible Study Classes 10 a.m., Morning Service

5 p.m., Evening Service

*Free transportation provided. Please call if you need a ride to church.

Student Ministry: Meeting for Bible study throughout the month. Contact Rosh Dhanawade at bluhenrosh@gmail.com for more information.

Steven VonBokern - Senior Pastor Rosh Dhanawade - IU Coordinator 302-561-0108 bluhenrosh@gmail.com

minutes to go, a Hoosier win seemed almost inevitable. They had overcome the early deficits, kept the game close and with a critical 3 in the final stretch, momentum was on their side to close out the victory.

The demoralizing 17-1 run that followed was the nail in the coffin, capping off a night that was filled with promise and ended with disappointment.

The numbers were there for Indiana. It led the turnover battle nine to 13. It secured 35 rebounds, the same as Nebraska. It limited offensive rebound opportunities for the Cornhuskers, holding them to six.

Ultimately, one team could hit its shots down the stretch –– the other couldn’t.

It wasn’t as if the shots were not open. Goode, a 3-point specialist who has

not shot worse than 37.2% from 3 in his career, missed two wide-open shots in the same possession in the final seven minutes. Then immediately on the other end, senior forward Juwan Gary –– who has never shot better than 30.6% from behind the arc –– drilled his contested triple.

“We had our chances,” Woodson said postgame. “But we just couldn’t make shots.”

The marquee road victory was there for Indiana to take, but it couldn’t snatch it. The Hoosiers will have more opportunities to do so, and it’s encouraging that the game was not a blowout, despite what the final score suggests.

A win could have set the tone heading into the new year for a squad looking to be the new Indiana basketball; for now, that will have to wait.

United Church of Christ and American Baptist Churches-USA First United Church

2420 E. Third St. 812-332-4439 firstuc.org facebook.com/firstuc

Sunday: 10:30 a.m., Worship

Monday: 10 a.m. via Zoom, Bible Study

We are an Open, Welcoming, and Affirming community of love and acceptance dedicated to welcoming the diversity of God’s beloved. We exist to empower, challenge, and encourage one another to live out Jesus’ ways (compassion, truth, and justice) authentically as human beings in community to create a better world.

Rev. Jessica Petersen-Mutai Senior Minister

Baptist Emmanuel Church

1503 W. That Rd. 812-824-2768 Emmanuelbloom.com Instagram & Facebook: @EmmanuelBloomington

Sunday: 9:15 a.m., Fellowship Sunday: 10 a.m., Worship Groups: Various times

Emmanuel is a multigenerational church of all types of people. Whether you are questioning faith or have followed Jesus for years, we exist to help fuel a passion for following Jesus as we gather together, grow in community, and go make disciples.

John Winders - Lead Pastor

Second Baptist Church

321 N. Rogers St. 812-327-1467 sbcbloomington.org facebook.com/2ndbaptistbloomington youtube.com/@secondbaptist churchbloomington

Sunday Service: 10 a.m., In house and on Facebook/YouTube Sunday School: 8:45 - 9:45 a.m. Bible Study: Available In House and on Zoom Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Thursdays, Noon

Please come and worship with us. We are in training for reigning with Christ! Need a ride? Call our Church bus at 812-3271467 before 8 a.m. on Sunday

Rev. Dr. Bruce R. Rose - Pastor Tallie Schroeder - Secretary

Unitarian Universalist

Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington 2120 N. Fee Ln. 812-332-3695 uubloomington.org facebook.com/uubloomington

Sunday: 10:15 a.m., via in person or livestream We’re a multi dynamic congregation actively working towards a more just and loving world. We draw inspiration from world religions and diverse spiritual traditions. Our vision is “Seeking the Spirit, Building Community, Changing the World.” A LGBTQA+, Dementia Friendly, Welcoming Congregation to all ages and groups and a Certified Green Sanctuary. Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Rose House LuMin & St. Thomas Lutheran Church

3800 E. Third St. 812-332-5252 Stlconline.org lcmiu.net

Instagram: @hoosierlumin facebook.com/LCMIU facebook.com/StThomasBloomington

Sunday: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

with

We are an inclusive Christian community who values the faith, gifts, and ministry of all God’s people. We seek justice, serve our neighbors, and love boldly. Rev. Adrianne Meier Rev. Lecia Beck Rev. Amanda Ghaffarian - Campus Pastor

Unity Worldwide

Unity of Bloomington A Center for Spiritual Growth

4001 S. Rogers St. text/call: 812-333-2484 unityofbloomington.org

IG: @unityofbloomington facebook@UnityofBloomington

Sunday Celebration: 10:30 a.m.

Discover a vibrant, welcoming community at Unity of Bloomington – “a positive path for spiritual living”. Our center offers a space for spiritual growth; embracing all with open arms. We proudly affirm and welcome the LGBTQ+ community, fostering love, acceptance, and inclusion. Join our loving congregation, where everyone is valued and encouraged to explore their spiritual journey. At Unity of Bloomington, all are welcome and together we thrive!

Minnassa Gabon - Spiritual Leader Phyllis Wickliff - Music Director Reformed Protestant

Trinity Reformed Church 2401 S. Endwright Rd. 812-825-2684 trinityreformed.org lucas@trinityreformed.org facebook.com/trinitychurchbloom

LAUREN MCKINNEY | IDS Redshirt sophomore guard Myles Rice dribbles the ball in a game against Miami University on Dec. 6, 2024, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. The Hoosiers shot 35 3-pointers against Nebraska on Dec. 13.

Henna Sandvik sets record career game high

By Savannah Slone srslone@iu.edu | @savrivers06

On Dec. 7, junior guard

Henna Sandvik recorded a career high 30 minutes off the bench in Indiana women’s basketball’s 15-point victory over Penn State. Sandvik’s play was highlighted by strong defense and understanding her role when the Hoosiers picked up their first Big Ten win of the season.

On Dec. 15, Sandvik had another career day, this time highlighted by her scoring. She scored a career-high 13 points off the bench for Indiana in its 95-61 win over Bellarmine University inside Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. She was one of seven Hoosiers to score in double figures against the Knights.

“You just have to keep working hard every single day and trust the process, like your time will come,” Sandvik said postgame. “I think

seeing the start of this season, seeing Lilly be amazing, like she has been improving so much, that helped me also believe in myself like yeah, I can do that too; If she’s done great, why not me?”

Indiana head coach Teri Moren complimented Sandvik’s work ethic after each back-to-back career performances.

“I think about Henna and the game that she had today and just how happy I am for her,” Moren said after the win over Bellarmine. “Because this is a kid, and you guys have heard me say it, when I tell you this kid is in the gym all the time, every day, just working on her game. It’s amazing. It’s not that hard of a recipe –– you work, you get the results that you want. Today, I’m so excited for Henna and the way she was able to see that thing go in.”

Coming off the bench for the Hoosiers, Sandvik was 4 for 6 from the field, which in-

cluded three 3-pointers. But Sandvik also continued her strong defensive efforts Dec. 15. She recorded two blocks and helped the Hoosiers hold the Knights to 40% from the field.

“Your confidence can only come from your work first,” Moren said. “As I’ve stated, she’s a worker. Here as of late with Syd (Parrish) going down, we’ve all seen Henna’s minutes increase.”

Moren said Indiana has valued and relied on Sandvik’s efforts on both sides of the ball throughout the season, but once again emphasized that Sandvik’s defense is what makes her a good player.

Sandvik’s increase in minutes has come after injuries affected the Hoosiers’ depth at the guard position. Indiana has dealt with injuries throughout the season, including left knee injuries to both sophomore guard Lenee Beaumont and graduate

Indiana receiver withdraws from transfer portal

By Daniel Flick danflick@iu.edu | @bydanielflick

As Indiana football preps for its College Football Playoff opener Dec. 20 against the University of Notre Dame, the Hoosiers saw a familiar face return to the program.

student guard Sydney Parrish.

“I think it’s just obviously we’re missing Syd right now so everybody else has to step up,” Sandvik said. “But just focusing on the small things — rebounding, bringing in energy — so I think that has been working for me real well.”

While Moren anticipates Parrish to return next week, Sandvik’s minutes may decrease. But she has proven she can be ready when Moren and the Hoosiers need her.

“I think any time you have adversity the way we’ve had it, other people have to step up and their roles change,” Moren said. “We talk about that a lot. You always have to be on the edge of your seat ready when your number is called.”

Indiana continues its season against Oakland University at noon Dec. 22 inside Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.

Indiana lands defensive commitments in portal

The 6-foot-3, 190-pound Williams had a strong finish in the 2023 season, catching 20 passes for 247 yards over the final four contests. He finished the season with 23 grabs for 281 yards. Indiana’s receiver room is senior-heavy, as Myles Price, Miles Cross and Ke’Shawn Williams are all in the midst of their final collegiate season. The Hoosiers’ leaders in receiving yards and touchdowns, junior Elijah Sarratt and

Fifth-year senior receiver E.J. Williams Jr., who initially left the team with intents to transfer Oct. 22, will return to the program, according to On3 Sports reporter Pete Nakos. Williams caught two passes for 49 yards in four games this season. The announcement came after Williams said on X he underwent surgery to repair an undisclosed injury and was taking a redshirt to be able to play next season. However, Williams initially said his coach, who he did not name, told him he was quitting on the team and wouldn’t be able to come back.

Then-senior wide

Williams Jr. celebrates a first down against Wisconsin on Nov. 4, 2023, at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. Williams Jr. withdrew his name from the transfer portal Dec. 13.

redshirt sophomore Omar Cooper Jr., each have eligibility remaining. Williams has one season left of eligibility.

By Daniel Flick danflick@iu.edu | @bydanielflick

Indiana football, locked in preparation for its College Football Playoff opener Dec. 20 against the University of Notre Dame, is in a balancing act with an eye peeking toward the future. The Hoosiers have been active in the transfer portal, landing a pair of defensive commitments. Northern Illinois University redshirt sophomore cornerback Amariyun Knighten announced his pledge to Indiana on Dec. 15 via X, while Western Kentucky University redshirt junior defensive tackle Hosea Wheeler chose

the Hoosiers on Dec. 16, he announced on X. Knighten redshirted as a true freshman in 2022, playing four games while making 15 tackles and two pass breakups. He appeared in all 13 games in 2023 and made five starts, collecting 17 tackles and one pass defended. The 6-foot, 174-pound Knighten played eight games this season and made an upset-clinching interception over Notre Dame on Sept. 7. Knighten was on the field for 145 snaps in coverage and allowed only seven catches for 107 yards on 14 targets, according to Pro Football Focus. He has two years of eligibility remaining.

Wheeler earned firstteam All-Conference USA honors this season at Western Kentucky after posting five tackles for loss, two sacks and a pair of quarterback hits. He was a second-team all-conference selection in 2023. At 6-foot-3, 300 pounds, Wheeler gives the Hoosiers a size reinforcement for next fall as they will lose defensive tackles James Carpenter and CJ West to graduation. That, however, is a topic for another day, as Carpenter, West and Indiana prepare for an 8 p.m. kickoff Dec. 20 against the Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

JAMES RUSH | IDS Junior guard Henna Sandvik stands in the huddle during a game against Brown University on Nov. 4, 2024, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Sandvik scored a career-high 13 points in the Hoosiers’ victory Dec. 15.