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THURSDAY, APRIL 5

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

VOLUME 114, ISSUE 42

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

TALLGRASS PRAIRIE

B.F.A. GROUP EXHIBITION

VOLLEYBALL

Six B.F.A. students display their art.

Panthers fall against Missouri in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

NEWS PAGE 2

CAMPUS LIFE PAGE 5

SPORTS PAGE 6

High school students help plant prairie.

Panthers avenge Jackrabbits 13-10 PATRICK HANSEN

Sports Writer

The Panther defense shined bright once again this season as the Purple and Gold played in a rematch against South Dakota State on Saturday, Dec. 7 for a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite playing in cold, windy conditions, UNI forced a second-round win on the road to become the first team in the playoffs to knock off a seeded team, winning 13-10.

Three weeks prior, many Panther fans remember falling to the Jackrabbits 38-7 in a game where UNI’s offense couldn’t get the ball moving and gave up four turnovers. The first quarter of the rematch in Brookings started to look like a repeat as the Jackrabbits jumped out to a quick 10-0 lead in a matter of just nine minutes.

Senior running back Trevor Allen said spirits were similar to their previous visit to Brookings, S.D., at the beginning of the game.

“It was pretty much the

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same as when we played them last time. ‘Hey we’re moving the ball, we’re just kind of shooting ourselves in the foot at critical moments,’ and once we got out of our own way, that’s when things started happening.”

The Panthers put points on the board in the second quarter as Austin Evans forced a fumble on a punt return, which was recovered by Omar Brown.

The Purple and Gold took that momentum down inside the

ten-yard line, but settled for three with a 23-yard field goal

by Matthew Cook to bring the score to 10-3 with 2:13 remaining in the first half.

UNI wasted no time coming out of halftime with a focus on tying up the game as they drove 75 yards down the field, capping off the first drive with a two-yard rushing touchdown to bring the game to 10-10 with 9:20 remaining in the third quarter. The Jackrabbits

magic that seems to surface only in wintertime.

Glee Club alumnus Paul Marlow emceed for the show, fully embracing the camaraderie clearly evident between members in this UNI ensemble. For 15 years, Marlow has filled this role and provided a comedic aspect to the show that the audience loves.

Glee Club members performed a variety of pieces, new and old, to spread the holiday spirit. An organization rooted in tradition, the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club has performed “We Need a Little Christmas,” “Lo, How a Rose ‘Ere Blooming,” and “The First Noel” on every Christmas Variety Show since 1978 — and this year was no exception.

In addition to these standards, this years’ production featured a variety of new material, from student-written compositions to holiday renditions of

non-holiday songs.

After several full ensemble pieces, Sharrie Wright was invited to the stage to sing an incredible rendition of the gospel standard “He’s Done Enough,” accompanied by the Glee Club. This song elicited an encore and standing ovation from the audience during the final performance of the show on Saturday night.

Then, the Orchesis Dance Company, an auditioned dance troupe and long-time partner act in the Variety Show, performed an energetic and stylized routine to Train’s version of “Run, Run, Rudolph.”

Audience members were in for a treat with this years’ play, “Kermit & The Christmas Caper,” performed by members of the Glee Club. The playwright, Geneva Hidlebaugh, is a fifth-grader at Kingsley Elementary in Waterloo.

attempted a response with a 45-yard field goal, but Elerson Smith blocked the attempt.

“Last minute, we said put Spencer Brown in, our offensive tackle,” Smith said. “Before the snap, we never ran it before with him in it, so we were just trying to find a way to put him somewhere. So, we ended up on the same side and we just tried to get as much knock-back as we could, get our hands up and I ended up being able to get my

hands on it.”

As time started to wind down in the fourth quarter, both teams experienced difficulties getting things going, punting the ball back and forth, until the Panthers used a six-minute drive to draw time off the clock, ultimately finishing the drive with the game-deciding field goal, giving the Panthers their first lead over the Jackrabbits this game and this season with 2:10 remaining on the game clock.

Head coach Mark Farley felt good about putting faith in the team and the ball during the game-sealing field goal.

“I just felt that we were in a good position because one, your offense has to score, but two, I felt we were really playing well on defense and I trusted that half of the ball just as much to go out and win the game for us as much as the offense could have.”

The Panthers will be back in action as they travel to Virginia for a fight to get to the semifinals against James Madison.

Glee Club ‘sleighs’ at annual Variety Show ANNA ALLDREDGE Theatre Critic

The Varsity Men’s Glee Club performed its 42nd annual Christmas Variety Show in the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center (GBPAC) on Dec. 6 and 7. The show featured a number of musical acts and performances for everyone, both young and old, to enjoy.

As audience members found their seats, they heard Father Paul Peters, an organist from Prairie du Chien, Wis., play renditions of standard Christmas and holiday tunes. Peters is an integral part of this annual event, having played for every show except for one.

In preparation for the event, the GBPAC was decked out in holiday decor and peaceful lighting, setting the scene for a night of festivities and exuded a

LINDY RUBLAITUS/Northern Iowan

Her winning entry was chosen from over a thousand contest submissions and involved a team of heroes which included: Kermit the Frog, Mickey Mouse, Shaggy and Scooby Doo, Sheriff Woody and Kermit’s secretary, Pickles. They saved Christmas after rescuing a kidnapped Santa and defeating a band of scaly villains. Both the actors and the audience enjoyed this lighthearted and comical production, complete with

masterful voice impressions of well-loved characters.

Between full ensemble pieces, the Glee Club’s select acapella group, the SingPins, took to the stage with modern tunes such as Queen’s “Somebody to Love” and Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition.” This well-rehearsed ensemble showcased several solo voices and added fan-favorite selections to the show.

See GLEE CLUB, page 5

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DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

NEWS

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

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ELIZABETH KELSEY News Editor

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

Students lend hand in prairie project ELIZABETH KELSEY News Editor

In collaboration with the University of Northern Iowa Tallgrass Prairie Center, students from Union High School science teacher Craig Hemsath’s class participated in a prairie re-seeding project on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at the Irvine Prairie.

The prairie, dedicated in May of 2018, is a 77-acre prairie-in-progress located on the farm of Cathy Irvine of Dysart, which she donated in memory of her late husband David.

“It was her wish to turn this into a tallgrass prairie for the benefit of the community, so children could have a sense of what Iowa used to look like,” said Laura Jackson, TPC director.

The TPC has a five-year

plan in place to restore the prairie to natural conditions by planting native prairie plants and regionally appropriate seed sources. The planting process, according to Jackson, is typically carried out using tractors, native seed drills and other mechanized methods which maximize productivity and encourage a diverse mixing of vegetation. However, with a specific 2-acre area of the land, the bulk-harvested seed that the TPC wanted to plant required a more traditional “broadcast” method, typically sown by hand or with a broadcast spreader.

“We had a broadcast spreader that we were going to use, and we brought it all the way out there this spring, and got it started, and it broke down,” Jackson said. “So then we had to fig-

Shooting in Cedar Falls leaves 1 dead

ure out a different way to do this planting.”

The broken spreader presented an opportunity for high school students to learn about the prairie by hand-sowing the seed, which is precisely what Hemsath’s students did on Nov. 20. Hemsath, a former grad student of Jackson’s who received his master’s degree in biology from UNI, was eager to bring his students to the prairie.

“It’s certainly a unique opportunity for Union students to be participating in,” he said. “I think they also saw how much it means to Cathy Irvine to have the next generation take part in building this unique legacy she’s creating for our community.”

The more than 40 high school students carried ice cream buckets filled with

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gles as they worked, and kept their hoods raised against the chill as they worked to cover the two acres.

“It was a cool and brisk day, but the students got to take part in a project extending far beyond our classroom,” Hemsath said.

“For me, I think it’s pretty special our students got to take part in what will likely be the last time we, as humans, will ever plant those two acres. It’s something they’ll be able to visit and share with others for years to come.”

If you are interested in writing for The Northern Iowan, contact Executive Editor Gabrielle Leitner at leitnerg@uni.edi, or fill out an application on northerniowan.com.

This is a paid position and a great resume builder!

A shooting in downtown Cedar Falls this week claimed the life of one victim.

Cedar Falls Police reported that at approximately 9:20 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 4, shots were fired at

L011 Maucker Union Cedar Falls, IA 50614 www.northerniowan.com northern-iowan@uni.edu 319.273.2157

seed and a “carrier”— a mixture of perlite and pumice stone, according to Jackson.

The carrier kept the differently sized seeds equally mixed and also provided a visual guide to indicate which areas of the prairie had already been sown.

“The students really saw how much work it was for 40+ people to seed the area and how much they made a difference for the TPC staff in providing the manpower,” Hemsath said.

The windy weather conditions meant that the students needed to wear gog-

Writers Wanted!

an apartment above Los Cabos Family Restaurant in Cedar Falls. Shortly afterward, a suspect or suspects were seen leaving the area.

24-year-old Grant Thomas Saul was confirmed dead in the apartment. Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

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The Northern Iowan is published semi-weekly on Monday and Thursday during the academic year, except for holidays and examination periods, by the University of Northern Iowa, L011 Maucker Union, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0166 under the auspices of the Board of Student Publications.

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PAGE 3

OPINION

GABRIELLE LEITNER Executive Editor

DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

Disclaimer: The opinions featured in The Northern Iowan do not reflect the views of The Northern Iowan staff as a whole.

Are self-driving vehicles safe?

ABIGAIL BENNETHUM

Opinion Columnist

In today’s society, there is some form of advanced technology meant to make your life more efficient. The unifying goal of new technology is usually to better the function of society by implementing a resource that makes our day to day lives go much smoother. Most of this technology is meant to benefit the user, however, it can result in more negative or useless outcomes rather than the expected positive outcomes.

A piece of technology that has piqued interest in many people is self-driving cars.

This new era of technology and innovation is rapidly approaching, becoming more popular in today’s society.

Google, Uber, Tesla and Nissan are the companies who have contributed to this new era of transportation.

The technology used in these automobiles mostly consists of laser beams, internal maps, sonars, cameras and other sensors implemented to support the driver on the road. The idea of self-driving cars started in hopes to reduce the figure of traf-

fic-related incidents per year.

In 2018, the National Safety Council reported 4.8 million serious injuries. Besides the goal of reducing traffic incidents, producers found many other potential benefits to auto-piloted cars. However, with every great idea comes questions and other factors trailing not far behind.

A beneficial pro mentioned in an article I came across summarized how self-driving cars could help mobilize people that are unable to do so themselves. Agreeing with the fact there should be equity for all individuals to have the freedom of going anywhere they please, finances and the economy are always a factor preventing individuals from living how they may prefer. Most Americans cannot afford a $100,000 car at their disposal, and we all know others are not going to want to pay for somebody else’s.

One of the most talked-about subjects is the job market. The job market is highly popular because jobs are the thing that supplies our lives and hobbies. I have found most of the people who work for taxi services, whether it be Uber, Lyft or

Tribune News Service

Opinion Columnist Abigail Bennethum discusses advancements in self-driving vehicle technology. Pictured above is a self-driving car from Google.

the traditional yellow taxi, are college students wanting a flexible job where they make their hours or individuals desiring to earn some extra cash on the side. Creating more of these self-driving cars will decrease the demand for the aforementioned services resulting in a decrease in the job market. Yes, making self-driving

cars more known into society might create more jobs or individuals of that intellectual caliber, however, individuals that don’t specialize in the sub-discipline of vehicle engineering are left high and dry.

So, the question stands, is our world ready for a society with this advanced technology? Personally, my answer is

no. There are still problems way more important standing in our world that should be resolved before we should let people drive with no hands on the wheel. Besides the fact of humans and technology being highly unpredictable, people shouldn’t be more distracted than they already are while operating a vehicle.

Columnist Wiggins bids farewell KEVIN WIGGINS

Opinion Columnist

As I write this, I am struck by the fact that in less than two weeks my time here at UNI will be complete. My tour at the University of Northern Iowa has been an experience that has shaped me for the better. However, I can’t help, but to wonder how I might have done things differently. As I stand today I wouldn’t change a thing of my time here, but still the question arises: What advice would I give my younger self ?

I’ve been very, very lucky here at UNI. I’ve been able to cultivate strong relationships with professors in both the philosophy and history departments. However, to my younger-self I would first just simply say “listen first.” So, I would tell my younger-self to listen, listen in office hours, listen to other students and listen to yourself. Listen in office hours so that you can get beyond just the in-class content. Listen to other students, because you will never know just what you might learn from people different

than yourself. Finally, listen to yourself so that you can become the best you that you are capable of. Had I always listened, I wouldn’t have had such a rocky time as I did adjusting as a freshman.

Secondly, I would implore my younger-self to “allow yourself to change.” There is a great movie from 1970 called “Little Big Man.” It is centered around the life of “Jack Crabb” who comically gallivanted through every possible role you could have had in the wild west. From gunfighter to living with the Cheyenne, Jack goes from phase to phase seamlessly.

Change is inevitable. If it is organic, real and exciting there is nothing better. I wish I could have embraced every second of it. Change is endemic to the student’s condition, in a way it is the entire point of a college education. So, to my younger-self I would say that if you listen, and allow yourself to change you will be able to achieve everything you set your sights on.

Thirdly, I would tell my younger-self to engage with and to read the books beloved by people you disagree with.

As far as my personal beliefs are concerned, in my college years I’ve been across the map. However, what I mean by imploring myself to “read” is to read things that make you uncomfortable. But I don’t just mean what is assigned in class. In response to a piece I wrote a month ago, an acquaintance of mine recommended Raymond Williams’ “Marxism & Literature.”

We have dramatically different beliefs, but I’m relishing winter break so I can dig into the book. To my younger-self, I would say to listen and read. The world is a bright, wondrous place, and you will never know what you truly believe if you don’t engage with people who aren’t like you. I didn’t realize this until my junior year when I took Professor Hettle’s class “American Radicalism.” It opened my eyes to just how dynamic, and engaging the world of political thought can be and always has been. Perhaps this is proof of the value of the Liberal Arts, but to my younger-self and any other student I implore you to read, engage and chal-

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Opinion Columnist Kevin Wiggins pens his farewell column at the Northern Iowan and offers advice to his younger self and others.

lenge yourself; the rewards for doing so are immense.

The last piece of advice I would give my younger-self is to follow Immanuel Kant’s imperative to “treat people as ends in themselves.” Funnily enough, I actually learned this in a class with Professor Clohesy as a freshman, but I haven’t understood until now what it means. Just like anywhere else, people in college can be evil and they can be good. While we may never get “beyond good and evil,” we can treat people as they are: worthy of respect and dignity. Treating each person in our lives as “ends in themselves” means to greet them as they are, where they are, with the respect that is due to them and to ourselves.

By listening first, allowing yourself to change, and engaging with others, I think that we can indeed treat people not as means, but as ends in themselves. I think this is the essence of a college education, and the real benefit of the “Liberal Arts” is a real engagement with people different than yourself. So, to my freshman-self I would really just say “live your life, and make the most of it”. The entire point of a college education is to produce not just an understanding of other people, but to understand ourselves, and the difficulties which endeavoring to do so produces. As my time at UNI comes to an end, I am thankful, and proud that this school has given me both.

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CAMPUS LIFE DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

FILM REVIEW

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

SOFIA LEGASPI

Campus Life Editor

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

Scorsese crafts crime epic ‘Irishman’ HUNTER FRIESEN

short-lived and damaging effects are ever-lasting.

Sprawling 50 years and dozens of features, director Martin Scorsese has crafted one of the finest filmographies in cinematic history. Over the decades, there appear to be two sides to the revered auteur’s style of filmmaking. One side is filled with fast-paced and violent storytelling in films such as “Goodfellas,” “Casino” and “The Wolf of Wall Street.” The other side is a more slow and quiet study of the human condition that can be found in “The Last Temptation of Christ,” “Kundun” and “Silence.” Now, after years of being disjointed, these distinct styles have finally melded together in the director’s newest Netflix film, “The Irishman.”

Telling the true-ish story (it’s still hotly debated whether any of it is true) of mob hitman Frank “The Irishman” Sheeran, the film places its main character at the forefront of American history in the mid-20th century. Over the years, Sheeran became increasingly attached to mob life, eventually leading him to the infamous teamster Jimmy Hoffa, whose fate is still unknown to this day. But as Frank rises the ranks within the mob, we watch as he slowly descends into a life of violence where the riches are

Directing: 5/5 The first thing you’ll probably notice when looking up the film is its massive 209-minute runtime, which makes it the longest mainstream movie released in over a quarter-century.

That amount of length may be daunting on paper, but Scorsese makes every minute of it glide by with ease.

His usual style of kinetic editing and pacing are masterfully employed and keep the film entirely thrilling throughout. By the time the film has finished, you feel as though you have lived a life with these characters rather than just watched it.

Another production facet that the film carries is a revolutionary new technology that digitally de-ages its main cast so they’re able to play their characters over multiple decades.

Admittedly, the gimmick doesn’t work perfectly as the 76-year old Robert De Niro never convincingly looks like his 30-year-old self. But even with its missteps, the technology is never a bother and seamlessly works its magic in the scenes where the characters are closer to the actor’s age.

Film Critic

Writing: 4/5 Adapted by Steven Zaillian from the book “I Heard You Paint Houses,”

“The Irishman” is a dense (maybe too dense) and depressing crime epic.

Scorsese’s trademarked main character narration is here in its entirety as Sheeran tells his life story while in a nursing home near the end of his life.

Even though Scorsese implements his usual gangster style within the script, its use here is for an altogether different purpose than previous films. Instead of showing the often joyous life of criminals with smugness, the script fully exposes us to the doom and gloom that a life of crime brings to someone.

Frank is the main character in our story, but within his story, he’s always off to the side as he gets caught up in the everlasting destruction around him. By the time the third act reaches and the characters are reflecting on their past, their sad nature is fully exposed. All the acts these characters committed were paid for in death and despair, with the reward being even more of the same.

Acting: 5/5 Teaming up with Scorsese for their ninth collaboration, Robert De Niro does his best work in decades in the titular role. His performance as Frank is closed-off and internal, further highlighting that Sheeran had little control over his life. The

Tribune News Service

Martin Scorsese directs “The Irishman” starring Jo Pesci (left), Robert De Niro (right) and Al Pacino (not pictured). The film was released on Nov. 1 and received a 97 percent Rotten Tomatoes rating.

further the story progresses, the more haunting De Niro becomes as he can more clearly see where the road will take him.

On the complete opposite side of the spectrum, Al Pacino plays the infamous union boss Jimmy Hoffa. We’ve always known that Pacino has fervor in his acting repertoire. His only problem over the years was how to effectively channel it to the right performance.

Fortunately, there seems to be a method to Pacino’s madness here as his boisterous fire perfectly counters De Niro’s coldness.

Playing against type is another frequent Scorsese collaborator in Joe Pesci as mob boss Russell Buffalino.

Even if it may be his quietest role to date, Pesci instills

fear through his menacing delivery and stares.

Rounding the ensemble cast is Harvey Keitel, Bobby Cannavale, Ray Romano, Jesse Plemons and Anna Paquin; all of whom do great work in their supporting roles.

Overall: 4.5/5 Proving that the two sides of Martin Scorsese work better together than separate, “The Irishman” is a crime classic on par with the greats before. Its extensive tale of remorse and sorrow is worth every minute you put into it. If you only see a handful of movies a year, make sure this Netflix epic is one of them.

Student directors prepare 10-minute plays LAUREN MCGUILL Staff Writer

Eleven 10-minute plays will be presented by Professor Amy Osatinski’s directing class on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bertha Martin Theatre in Strayer-Wood Theatre.

The students have been working on their plays all semester and are ecstatic to finally present them to an audience. Each play has one to three actors, many of whom are non-theatre majors.

“We had a lot of non-theatre majors and undecided majors try out for the plays,” said Thayne Lamb, a junior theatre performance major, who is directing one of the plays on Thursday. The auditions for the play were held on Oct. 15 and over 35 people auditioned for a part.

“And almost everyone got a

part, which was great,” Lamb added.

Earlier in the year, the students had an assignment to direct a three- to five-minute scene of their choice, which they said really helped to get their feet wet and learn what it’s like to direct.

“The five-minute scenes almost acted as a lab for us,” said Zoella Sneed, a junior double-majoring in theatre performance and theatre for youth.

“We all give feedback to one another about our plays,” she said. “It really helps everyone out, including yourself as sometimes you can see what your play needs help with by watching others.”

The directing class is a required class for theatre majors and is a prerequisite to the playscripts class.

“The class doesn’t only

help direct, but works with leadership skills, issues in the theatre, how to deal with bias, intimacy and consent, safe spaces and more,” said another student director, Hannah Smith, a junior drama theatre for youth major.

The class has also introduced many of the students to dramaturgies, which gives the actors more background and information on their character, a glossary, cultural context and anything else they may need to help give the best performance they can. Many of the students stated that they will be taking a dramaturgy class next semester, and while it is a lot of work, they’re all looking forward to it.

All of the directors said they are looking forward to Thursday and presenting their respective shows on which they’ve been working for months.

Doors open at 7:15 p.m. and the event is free and open to the public.

COURTESY PHOTO

Students in Amy Osatinski’s directing class will present short plays in the Bertha Martin Theatre on Thursday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

PAGE 5

CAMPUS LIFE

SOFIA LEGASPI

Campus Life Editor

DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

B.F.A. students present group exhibition SOFIA LEGASPI

Campus Life Editor

Artwork by six students seeking Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees is on display at the UNI Gallery of Art now until Dec. 19. An opening reception was held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5.

Allie Christisen from Bettendorf, Iowa presented a body of work titled “Not Gross: An Exhibition of SelfPortraits” (2).

“My work is focused on the experiences that I have with my body in relation to societal expectations of femininity,” Christisen wrote in her artist statement.

Christisen’s pieces portrayed physical features of which she has been ashamed in the past, including body and facial hair and acne.

“Through traditional printmaking techniques,” she wrote, “I am able to display these stigmatized features of my body in a delicate and intimate manner.”

In a photo exhibition titled “Something More” (1), West Des Moines native Andrew

Dickerson focused on “subtle poetic moments captured within ordinary spaces,” as written in his artist statement.

Many of Dickerson’s photos depict homes whose occupants have recently died, one of which was that of his own grandfather’s. Taking these photos helped Dickerson process the loss and ease the transition.

“Through photography,” he wrote, “I elevate the seemingly mundane, creating visual harmonies between different elements of everyday life.”

Abigail Hedley of Dubuque, Iowa presented a collection of sculptures titled “Dwelling” (4). Pieces were created from a variety of materials found within the home, including foam cushion, felted wool and latex.

“As I worked with these objects and ideas, the repetitive processing of this tactile material led to an intimate and personal experience with these common objects,” Hedley wrote. “Through this intimate connection of understanding and control of this material, I became comfort-

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1 able with reminiscing on the aspects of my life that have been unpleasant, altering my view of home […] The final form is a reflection of these wandering thoughts that have intruded and embedded themselves into the work.”

In her painting exhibition “Impressions” (5), Rachel Kopriva from Traer, Iowa explored the way people leave impressions on others’ lives, similar to how transparent or reflective objects are affected by their environment.

“We [human beings] start out as a blank slate then, we are immersed in a variety of experiences and with a variety of people,” Kopriva wrote.

“The diversity of people who our lives intersect with can create a kaleidoscope of views and a wonderfully complex perspective. In the same way, these paintings are complex and mysterious, inspired by forms composed of light and color in space.”

Another painting exhibition — this one by Merrillville, Ind. native Whitney McGill

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SOFIA LEGASPI/Northern Iowan

The Fall 2019 B.F.A. Group Exhibition is on display in the UNI Gallery of Art until Thursday, Dec. 19.

— titled “Our Hair is Our Crown” (3), expressed the artist’s pride in her African American culture, specifically its contrasting standards of beauty and challenges that come with it.

“By showing the beauty in the thickness of our hairstyles and melanin of our skin, I embrace and celebrate these crucial components to our identity,” McGill wrote. “I use colorful, organic shapes to represent the refusal to conform to western culture. In my work, I empower women of color to wear their hair as if it were their crown, with pride and grace.”

Finally, Joel Wisner of Mason City, Iowa presented a drawing, printmaking and

performative exhibition titled “Feeds” (6). The exhibition incorporates several elements of the artist’s regular order at McDonald’s, including drawings on receipt rolls and cultured fries stored in clear plastic bags.

“I am a fry by fry kinda guy, valuing repetition and detailed focus on the individual characteristics of likewise things. One of many but still one nonetheless!” Wisner wrote. “‘Feeds’ double dips yet respects each dip individually.”

The UNI Gallery of Art is free and open to the public on Mondays through Thursdays from 10 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment.

6 GLEE CLUB

continued from page 1

Yet another piece Glee Club performed may have sounded familiar for attendees of their October concert.

However, instead of their previous take on Radiohead’s “Creep,” this version changed some of the lyrics to fit the sadness Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer felt before his year in the spotlight. This was a creative way to change

up a well-known tune, as well as to address the loneliness one can feel around the holiday season.

Following this unique rendition, another UNI ensemble proved that Men’s Glee Clubbers aren’t the only ones with expertise in the lower register. UNITUBA took the stage with an impressively brisk and resonant performance of “March” and “Trépak” from Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite.”

One of the most chilling pieces chosen to wrap up the night was a call and response version of “Ave Maria” as well as “What a Wonderful World.”

The show closed out with the “world-famous” Arthur Murder Dancers. Complete with a kickline and complex choreography, select members of the Glee Club dressed in tutus performed to “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies” and “Christmas Can-Can.” After

this fan-favorite, the dancers were soon joined by the rest of the Glee Club for a rendition of the UNI Fight Song.

“The Glee Club believes in the power of music to lift up, inspire, and help make the world a better place,” wrote Glee Club Director John Wiles in the show’s program.

The Men’s Varsity Glee Club has participated in various community service events in the Cedar Falls and Waterloo community. This

weekend, they shared holiday spirit, a little laughter and undeniably serene musical moments with all who attended.

For years, the Variety Show has been a beloved and anticipated wintertime tradition that has always delivered.

This year was no different.

The Men’s Glee Club ignited holiday spirit through a creative blend of lighthearted humor and heartfelt, moving music.

PAGE 6

SPORTS DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

VOLLEYBALL

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

JACOB POTTER Sports Editor

|

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

Panthers lose to Missouri in NCAA tourney COLIN HORNING

Sports Writer

After falling in the championship game of the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament, the Panther volleyball team earned an at-large rebirth in the NCAA Tournament due to their strong record and strength of schedule.

“We’re obviously extremely thankful that the committee felt our resumé was good enough to give us an at-large bid, especially when you look at the pool of 32 teams that they choose from,” head coach Bobbi

Petersen said.

On Friday, Dec. 6, the Panther women traveled to Lincoln, Neb., for their firstround matchup against the University of Missouri.

“Both of our teams are very different from the first matchup earlier this season,” Petersen said. “Missouri, to me, is one of the best offensive teams in the country. They’re loaded offensively.”

In a rematch of a regular season game played back on Sep. 13, the Panthers were unable to get any momentum going offensively and couldn’t stop the Tiger attack, losing

in three straight sets. The Panthers fell in the first 25-11, the second 25-13 and the final set 25-14, ending their shortlived NCAA Tournament appearance. Senior Karlie Taylor, playing in her final game as a Panther, led the team with eight kills and 10 digs for the contest, while fellow senior Rachel Koop notched 17 assists.

The Panther volleyball team looks ahead to next year, where they will be returning young talent from this season.

They will be graduating setter Rachel Koop, outside hitter Karlie Taylor and defensive specialist Abbie Staack, three

of the team’s leaders and key players. This year’s freshmen class of eight players will likely be asked to step up in a big way.

Expect the Panther volleyball team next season to remain a force to be reckoned with in the Missouri Valley Conference.

TONI FORTMANN/Northern Iowans

WRESTLING

Panthers place fourth at Cliff Keen Invite BRIELLE KIEWIET Sports Writer

Panther wrestling traveled to Las Vegas for the Cliff Keen Invite over the weekend, placing fourth overall out of 32 teams on Dec. 6-7.

The Panthers had five medalists at the invite last year and head coach Doug Schwab calls it the “toughest in-season tournament.”

“We’ve used Vegas as kind of a marker to know where you’re at. It’s a big event,”

Schwab said. “Heck, we get to see some guys that we’re maybe not going to get to see until the national tournament.”

The Panthers ended day one of the invitational with 58 points for fourth, eight of nine wrestlers still alive and three advancing to the semifinals. Max Thomsen (149), Bryce Steiert (174) and Taylor Lujan (184) each went 3-0, securing their spots in the semis.

Thomsen scored an 11-3

major decision in the quarterfinals, followed by two more decisions. Steiert had a strong performance with a fall in his first round and a 12-1 major decision in the second. A close third round decision led him to the semis.

Lujan also stole bonus points with a fall and major decision during his first two rounds.

A 10-8 decision in his third match sent him to the semis.

According to Schwab, the team always has the bigger picture in mind throughout

the season.

“Any time that we can have multi-day weigh-ins, I think is really important and have a similar set up to a national tournament where you have some down time because it’s different,” Schwab said.

“We’re trying to simulate as much as we can of a national tournament/national event.”

Jay Schwarm went 3-1 on day one, adding bonus points each match. Michael Blockus and Keaton Geerts also went 3-1.

On day two of the invite,

Steiert earned another major decision, making him the only Panther to advance to the finals. He fell 3-1 in the championship match to Purdue’s Dylan Lydyand, ultimately placing second for the Panthers. Lujan fell 8-4 in the semifinals, placing fourth. Six other Panthers placed and the team finished with 94 points.

Next, the Panthers will compete at home in the warmth of the West Gym on Saturday, Dec. 14 for the UNI open.

BIGGER THAN THE GAME

Sonnen fulfills passion in his return to UNI JACOB POTTER

Sports Editor

Marc Sonnen’s return to UNI as a video coordinator brings a flare of retro as the former Panther, an integral part of the 2009-2010 Sweet 16 team, looks to contribute to his alma mater.

“It’s pretty amazing and it’s good to be back around the guys that were coaches of me as a player and being able to learn from them in a different way,” Sonnen said. “Being able to share the knowledge that I have with the players and being back around the fans and people is really cool and enjoyable.”

“Great to have him back with us,” head coach Ben Jacobson said. “He was a terrific player for us and he is off to a really good start.”

Sonnen was the standard of reliability during his time at UNI as he played every single game of his career (139), which is UNI’s all-time record. The highlight of Sonnen’s career was contributing to UNI’s upset of Kansas as a true freshman with three steals and extra effort plays

like a chasedown block to hinder the Jayhawks comeback effort.

“The Sweet 16 just going there and it being my first year, going through something like that by far is going to be something that I’ll always remember,” Sonnen said.

Tight-knitted bonds made the team special like the “wolf pack” that Sonnen said consisted of himself, Matt Morrison and Tyler Lange.

The former Panthers got a chance to be together as a group for the first time since 2010 when the team was inducted into the UNI Athletics Hall of Fame on Sep. 21.

“All of us coming back together that was definitely cool seeing everyone,” Sonnen said. “A lot of them have families and kids now, and you remember the times that you had with them.”

“It was pretty sweet,” Sonnen said on the team’s induction. “It was cool and we all hung out every night, got to enjoy each other’s company, kind of away from basketball too.”

The team reminisced on the

great times they had together that built friendships that will last a lifetime.

“Just the overall everyday stuff, the bus rides, the hotel trips, the stuff you do before practice and hanging out,” Sonnen said. “Those are the memories you remember more as a player.”

After his career at UNI, Sonnen took his talents overseas to play two seasons in Germany. He then returned to his hometown of St. Paul, Minn. to train young basketball players as a member of the Minnesota School of Basketball. Prior to returning to UNI, Sonnen spent the 2018-19 season as an assistant coach at Tartan High School, where he got his start as a player.

Sonnen returned to UNI shortly after the Hall of Fame induction to take the job as the team’s video coordinator.

His passion is to share the knowledge that he acquired over his career and to mentor the young men of UNI men’s basketball.

“I wasn’t the perfect kid growing up and mentors are what helped me stay on

COURTESY PHOTO/UNI Athletics

Marc Sonnen, far left, celebrates after upsetting the No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks in 2010.

the right path,” Sonnen said.

“Talking about my experiences and helping them in that way. Also, going to class and making smart decisions off the floor. Those are things that I try to do with a lot of the players.”

Sonnen is able to help freshmen like Antwan Kimmons, who he coached at Tartan, in the transition from high school to college.

“I’m able to bring him in and talk to him once a week just asking him how life is, not always asking him just about basketball,” Sonnen said. “I

think that’s an important thing as a coach is caring about the players as people as much as you do about wanting them to be a good basketball player.”

Sonnen’s career has come full circle after playing at UNI and now having the opportunity to impact the players that follow in his footsteps.

“Why I became the player that I was was because of coaches that have helped me out and wanted me to be successful,” Sonnen said. “So, I think being able to be that guy for somebody else definitely is a big driving force for me.”

SIERRA STEEN Managing Editor

PAGE 7

FUN & GAMES DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

SUDOKU ONE

|

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

SUDOKU TWO

Here are 1. David’s 2. What some father has room do ghosts riddles to 3 sons: Snap, avoid? stretch Crackle, your and brain a ____? bit!

3. You live in 4. Re-arrange a one-story the letters house made O O U S W entirely of TDNEJR red wood. to spell just What color one word. would the What is it? stairs be?

Answers on page 8!

CROSSWORD

Across 1 “Georgia on My Mind” singer Charles 4 Party music mix, briefly 9 Keep from having kittens, say 13 “Big Band” and “Jazz” periods 15 Easily fooled 16 __-in-one: golfer’s ace

17 Career-boosting political spending on local projects 20 Speaker sound 21 Smitten 22 Dancer Duncan 25 Thurman who played The Bride in “Kill Bill” films 26 Chill in the air

29 Pos. opposite 30 Amateur radio hobbyist 33 “Cats” poet’s monogram 34 Chief Norse god 35 “Great” dog 36 Zeros 40 Polite address to a woman 43 Creme-filled cookie 44 Rx 47 Paltry sum 51 Madison in NYC, e.g.

52 Polite way to address a man 53 Positive vote 54 Aspen getaway 56 To a greater extent 59 “There you have it!”

60 Issue’s most important element ... and a hint to 17-, 30-, 36- and 47-Across 64 Leave out 65 Prefix with sonic 66 Sunrise direction 67 Sport played on horseback 68 Africa’s Sierra __ 69 Sgts.’ superiors

Down 1 Change the wall color 2 Excites 3 Football play measure 4 Forensic evidence 5 Glass container 6 iPhone assistant 7 Tie, as a score 8 “I have to know!”

9 Prison knife 10 Cornmeal dish 11 “__ the President’s Men” 12 “I agree” 14 Slide on the road 18 Word of mock sadness 19 Wild hog 23 Swiss watch brand 24 Friends in Lyon 27 + or - particle 28 Opposite of post31 __ a kind 32 Commercials 36 Yukon automaker 37 “__ to you, matey!”

38 Many a techie 39 Bare-naked Lady 40 Variety show hosts, briefly 41 Sushi tuna 42 Postal service

44 Word before vows or status 45 Most wicked 46 Leaves 48 Syrup brand since 1902 49 Impressive sight 50 Quik maker 55 Convenient bag 57 Director Preminger 58 “__ be in England ... “: Browning 60 Floor cleaner 61 Broody music genre 62 Geographical direction suffix 63 Daisy __: Li’l Abner’s wife

Puzzle answers on page 8

PAGE 8

CLASSIFIEDS

DECEMBER 9, 2019 |

NORTHERNIOWAN.COM

|

SIERRA STEEN Managing Editor

VOLUME 116, ISSUE 26

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Today’s Horoscope To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -Long-distance communications, traffic and travels improve over three weeks with Mercury in Sagittarius, so expand your territory. Write, research and study. Investigate and share discoveries.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is an 8 -Set long-range financial targets. Building a savings plan comes easier for three weeks with Mercury in Sagittarius. Track budgets and financial investments.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 7 -Support your partner.

Over three weeks with Mercury in Sagittarius, the competition is extraordinarily fierce.

Ignore petty stuff and pull together. Rely on each other.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Create and discover efficiencies.

Discover solutions for your work and health through communication over several weeks with Mercury in Sagittarius. Network and assess suggestions.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -Get excellent advice from family. It’s easier to express affection with Mercury in Sagittarius for three weeks. You’re especially persuasive. Talk about what you love.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept.

22) -- Today is an 8 -- Fix up your place.

Over three weeks with Mercury in Sagittarius, prioritize household renovation.

Uncover forgotten treasures and discover new purposes for old stuff.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Creativity surges. Begin a threeweek intensive study phase with Mercury in Sagittarius. Your curiosity seems intensified. Study with passion. Write reports and investigate assumptions.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -Find more ways to make money. It’s easier to spend, too, with Mercury in Sagittarius, so take care. Keep close track of income and outflow.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is an 8 -- For the next three weeks with Mercury in your sign, you have an advantage. Practice to improve your communication skills and talents. Polish and edit.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Contemplate beauty and listen to your heart. Enter a three-week philosophical and spiritual phase with Mercury in Sagittarius. Speculate on eternal questions.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is an 8 -- Group activities go well. Confer with others to discover hidden truths. Enjoy a three-week social phase with Mercury in Sagittarius .

Accomplish great things together.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Professional opportunities arise in conversation. Begin a three-week testing phase with Mercury in Sagittarius. Let others know what you want.

Communication benefits your career.

The Bird is the word!

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Riddle Answers: 1. David, 2. The living room, 3. There are no stairs because it’s a one-story house, 4. “Just one word”

Puzzle answers

SUDOKU ONE

SUDOKU TWO

CROSSWORD