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SPORTS 8
REDBIRD VOLLEYBALL FALLS TO INDIANA STATE
THE VIDETTE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021 Vol. 133 | No. 17
videtteonline.com
Loving long distance Story by GRACE DOYLE | Features Reporter Illustration by FLYNN GERAGHTY | Art Director
Students share trials, triumph of dating during COVID-19 Since March 2020, Illinois has been maneuvering throughout a multiphase system in an attempt to regulate and slow the spread of COVID-19, prohibiting indoor dining, gatherings of more than 10 people and most, if not all, recreational activities. This has left people feeling more alone and secluded than ever before, relying on the entertainment of those in their household until the close quarters and inescapability of recycled human interaction turns into a nightmare in and of itself. FaceTiming and texting has become the new norm of communication and for those with romantic partners, the lack of physical connection can leave them feeling as if they are on the outskirts of their relationship, waiting as a lowly hitchhiker to be picked up and thrown back into the driver’s seat of dating. See COVID-19 COUPLES on Page 6
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
ISU RN to BSN online program ranked 14th in US YASMIN ODEH News Reporter | @yasminodeh3
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llinois State University’s online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing and health informatics management degrees have been ranked among the top bachelor’s degrees in the United States. The honor was recognized on the U.S. News & World Report’s website under “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs.” The programs were ranked second best in Illinois and 14th in the nation. “This current recognition is an independent confirmation of the excellent academic programs university wide, and in particular in the Mennonite College of Nursing,” ISU Director of Media Relations Eric Jome said. The site bases its rankings off student support services, student engagement, graduation rate, class sizes, technologies, faculty, credentials and several other factors. The departments included are the Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN) and the Department of Health Sciences (DHS). The programs have made the charts for several reasons regarding their innovative expansion over the years to ensure the program is accessible and proficient for students. “U.S. News & World Report has consistently ranked Illinois State
University among the top public universities in the nation and it also recognizes the high quality of the online programs offered here,” Jome said. MCN has offered its online RN to BSN program since 2002. The program accounts for 86% of ISU’s online bachelor’s degree enrollment. According to the program’s sequence leader, Cindy Malinowski, in ISU’s tied news report, the program limits class sizes to a maximum of 30 students to ensure quality and better attainable material in the online classroom. She also noted that MCN’s program course format is internationally quality certified through Nickolas Parra | Photographer | @NickoolasParra the nonprofit organization Quality ISU’s online RN to BSN and health informatics management degrees have Matters. Several other schools’ been ranked as the 14th best programs in the nation and second best in Illinois. online class sizes are larger and hinder the connection between Program manager Dr. Jennifer maintenance of health-related students and their professors. Peterson said in the ISU report that data for professionals to optimally The recent Academic Progression the field is ever evolving and requir- perform in their workplaces. It was Initiative allows for 16 partnerships ing further education, which ISU’s created particularly for working with community colleges across program continually catches up to. RHITs and their success in advancthe state so students can transition They consistently ensure their proing their education. from their associate degrees to their gram is up to par for student sucAcross the nation, 337 online bachelor’s smoothly. cess post-graduation. After taking bachelor’s degree programs are The health informatics and three courses within the program, recognized by U.S. News & World management degree of the DHS students receive proficiency credit Report, and ISU remains in 14th is currently a completely online from their HIT degrees, allowing place. program. It is designed specifically them to continue their degree withfor students with RHIT certificaout having to repeat any courses YASMIN ODEH is a News Reporter tion and who are also graduates of along the way. for The Vidette. She can be contactan accredited college program in The program allows for gradued at yaodeh@ilstu.edu. Follow her health information technology. ates to aid in the collection and on Twitter at @yasminodeh3.
NEWS IN BRIEF Head of Tennessee Water group to present on sustainability Director of the Tennessee Water Resources Research Center professor John S. Schwartz will be giving a presentation at 3 p.m. Feb. 24 via Zoom. The presentation is titled “Water Sustainability in the United States Fescue Belt: Exploring Shifts John in Hydrologic ProSchwartz cesses from Pasture Conversion of Cool- to Warm-Season
Grasses.” Schwartz arrived in Tennessee in 2003 and is currently a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Since then, Schwartz’s research program in water resources remains focused on the study of water quality, river mechanics, watershed hydrology and sediment modeling, stream restoration and ecological engineering. Registration is required. Individuals who need special accommodations can contact Illinois State University’s Center for a Sustainable Water Future at nsshawk@illinoisstate.edu. KELLIE FOY | NEWS EDITOR | @KELLIE_FOY
Nobuko Adachi to speak on racial hatred, xenophobia in research series Feb. 19 The Research Series from Illinois State University’s Department of Sociology and Anthropology will hold its next event at noon Feb. 19 via Zoom. Anthropology professor Nobuko Adachi will be the speaker and will be giving a talk titled as “Yellow Peril Redux: Reformation of Racial Assaults Toward Asians in Diaspora During the Pandemic.” The talk will look at the increasing incidents of racial hatred and xenophobia against people of Asian descent in the United States due to COVID-19. Adachi will also discuss the verbal abuse of Asian Americans and Asians living in the United States. Individuals interested can join the Zoom meeting with the passcode redux. KELLIE FOY | NEWS EDITOR | @KELLIE_FOY
COVID-19 update 14,118 cases in McLean County
152 COVID-19 deaths in McLean County
21 new cases on Monday in McLean County
6 new cases at ISU 6.3% seven-day positivity rate thru Sunday
2.4% positivity rate at ISU. 85 students at ISU positive for COVID-19
223,200 total tested in McLean County
351 individuals in home isolation in McLean County
35,676 tests conducted at ISU so far
SOURCE: MCLEAN COUNTY HEALTH DEPARMENT
MCHD partnering with BroMenn for COVID-19 vaccine McLean County Health Department is partnering with Carle BroMenn Medical Center in opening up an additional COVID-19 vaccine clinic. Additional time slots will be available for county residents under Phase 1A and 1B. Those under phases 1A and 1B are health care workers, residents of long-term care facilities, 65 and older and non-health care frontline workers. The clinic will be held at the Activity and Recreation Center located at 600 E. Willow Street. Residents can go online to the MCHD website and book a vaccine appointment. Those who register online will receive an email notification of their appointment. Residents can also call the MCHD COVID-19 call center at (309) 888-5600 Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. GRACE KINNICUTT | NEWS EDITOR
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The Vidette is published Tuesdays every week, except for final examinations, holidays and semester breaks. The digital Summer Vidette is published in June and July. Students are responsible for the content of the Vidette. The views presented do not necessarily represent, in whole or part, those of the Illinois State University administration, faculty and students. The Vidette is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Illinois College Press Association. Subscriptions are available by mail to anywhere in the United States for $150 per calendar year. © The Vidette 2021 University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
Restaurants use Valentine’s to adjust to Phase 4 JOHN MURRAY News Reporter | @Jmurr__
unexpected. But we do expect a busy weekend regardless of only being able to half-fill up our actual restaurant.” Even if an in-person reservation is s the first “Valentine’s not in the plans for this Valentine’s Day: Pandemic Edition” Day, Roetzer added that it is a good approaches, the Bloomidea to reserve a takeout or delivery ington-Normal restaurant scene is option from any restaurant multiple preparing for the most unique Valdays in advance this year. entine’s Day. It is sure to be much busier than Reservations, which are usuusual. ally hard enough to come by in It is unclear in practice how local non-pandemic times, may be even restaurants will handle this influx of harder than ever to find now. online orders. Bloomington’s Biaggi’s, an According to Ancho & Agave’s webItalian chain restaurant, is taking site, the Bloomington Mexican/Tex reservations. Mex restaurant, it is taking reserva“The current phase that we are tions. in allows us [to take reservations] Although, as of a few days out from as long as we comply with 50% Valentine’s Day, reservation times are capacity and tables 6 feet apart,” few and far between. Biaggi’s Managing Partner Derek Takeout, curbside pickup and Roetzer said. indoor dining at 50% capacity with According to Roetzer, Biaggi’s tables 6 feet apart are all offered. was always planning to take resAnother popular Bloomington ervations as long as indoor dining restaurant, Epiphany Farms & Anju was allowed in the region. Above, also has in-person reservations With that, Biaggi’s faces the for Valentine’s Day. same issue that all restaurants All indoor seating is at 50% capacity face this Valentine’s Day: what to with tables six feet apart and also has Alex Gant | Photo Editor | @AlexGant16 expect? takeout and delivery options. As Valentine’s Day quickly approaches, many restaurants are preparing how they will safely handle the holiday “We expect to be very busy all Epiphany Farms expects all indoor amid the pandemic. Restaurants, such as Medici, are offering in-person reservations, delivery and curbside weekend, especially with carrypickup. reservations to be taken by mid-week. out,” Roetzer said. Medici in Normal offers not only “What’s different now is we’ll online-exclusive deal: “Valentine’s At Home.” in-person dinner reservations but also probably have less staff to handle indoor dining and more The promotion includes a meal for two: a choice of one apbrunch. staff running our carryout business.” petizer, a choice of two entrees and a choice of one dessert. Takeout, delivery and indoor and outdoor dining at 50% The key, though, according to Roetzer is the health and With a wine choice, the deal is $79.99. Without a wine capacity with tables 6 feet apart are all offered as well. safety of Biaggi’s staff. choice, $46.99. “Our priority is always taking care of our staff and our guests, “Just because of that promotion we’re doing, I expect it to JOHN MURRAY is a News Reporter at The Vidette. He can be as well as delivering the best food possible,” Roetzer said. be a busy weekend with lots of carryouts,” Roetzer said. contacted at jwmurr1@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter at @ In light of the pandemic, and many people still not ready “If the past year has taught us anything, it’s to expect the Jmurr__. to dine in this Valentine’s Day, Biaggi’s is offering a special
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“We expect to be very busy all weekend, especially with carryout. What’s different now is we’ll probably have less staff to handle indoor dining and more staff running our carryout business.” Derek Roetzer, Biaggi’s managing partner
Students welcome back Milner study spaces with open arms JORDAN MEAD Features Reporter | @meadjordan19
semester. Like several other ISU students, it was difficult to study when Milner was closed last semester. Milner Library opened its doors to Illinois “I think they need to keep it open and State University students, faculty, staff and stay flexible with us and understand that retirees on Feb. 1. being online is so hard. We don’t want The library looks different compared to to be in online classes as is, so of any past semesters to keep everyone safe. Regardless, the ISU community is happy to resources they could give us, at least give us the library,” Mullen said. have the library open. “It’s nice to have the study rooms, but “Everyone wants to return to normal, and I cannot be productive unless I study or it needs to be a slow process to make sure do my homework in Milner.” that it is safe and focusing on everyone’s Many students were unhappy with the well-being,” Director of Communication and decision to close the library last semesOutreach for Milner Erin Link said. ter. “It is a sign of hope to have BUILDING They feel that the campuspeople back in the library provided study rooms in different studying.” HOURS ISU buildings did not meet their The reopening of Milner is a major benefit for ISU students Monday through needs and were full of distractions. and faculty. Thursday: 8 a.m. to “When the library first closed, It gives students a quieter midnight I thought it was a silly decision and more productive environ Friday: 8 a.m. to because I didn’t think that the liment for homework. brary was a very high-risk area as “It definitely offers more 6 p.m. Maia Huddleston | Photo Editor | @maiawrites spots to study,” graphic design Saturday: 10 a.m. far as COVID-19 goes,” computer Since Milner Library reopened on Feb. 1, many Illinois State University students and faculty science student Levi Schaut said. expressed their joy for the reopening, highlighting the benefits of the library’s environment. Junior and graphic communications to 6 p.m. nursing majors Madison Coon and Montanna Stewart spend time in Milner studying and working on Schaut went on to say that he technology student John Sunday: 10 a.m. homework for their classes. found it difficult to study. Rosenberg said. Oftentimes he would go to the “If you want alone time from to midnight “We all wish we knew what would happen notice. campus study rooms at Schroyour dorm and your roommate, with the pandemic. We will continue to work Seating is spaced out to implement physieder Hall and encounter difficulties. that’s another place you can with the university and listen to state and local distancing. Increased cleaning has been This includes the motion sensor lights relax.” cal guidelines,” Link said. added to the facility. frequently shutting off and interrupting his Now that Milner is open, ISU students can “We’ve been able to take the last 10 months “We’re trying to still serve campus as best focus. additionally spend more time on campus as to make sure that we’re doing the most we as we can while also centering that on everyThe decision to close Milner for the majorRegion 2 navigates Phase 4 mitigations. can.” one’s health and safety,” Link said. “I live off campus with classes being online. ity of last semester was a joint decision by Milner has implemented several regulaThe facility encourages students to stay I like to come here so that I can be on campus ISU administration and state and local health tions to keep all patrons safe. home if they feel sick, and to pay attention to guidance in response to the previous high again,” special education student Kailin ZimIt will continue offering curbside pickup signs posted throughout the building. cases of COVID-19. merman said. and expanded electronic resources on the Faculty also asks students to wear their Also, Milner aligned itself with the re“People are still social distancing and wearlibrary’s website. masks at all times to keep the library open sponses of other libraries and the mitigations ing a mask. I think anywhere you go there’s Library staff will be serving students from and to protect fellow Redbirds. made by Gov. JB Pritzker last September. a risk.” Link and other staff at Milner hope that the behind Plexiglas barriers and virtually. Environmental systems science and susTemporarily, seating is not available on JORDAN MEAD is a Features Reporter for trend in cases will continue to be low so that tainability student Teresa Mullen said that Floor 5. The Vidette. Contact her at jnmead@ilstu.edu. they can provide a more suitable place for she and her friends were joyful when they Milner Cafe will be closed until further Follow Mead on Twitter at @meadjordan19. students to study. learned about the reopening of Milner this
Viewpoint
PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
Everybody needs love this year
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ou see it in the commercials, in the lavish Valentine’s Day section of Target, in the new movie releases and even just in conversations around this time of year — the idea that Valentine’s Day is only for those who are dating. However, people have so many valuable relationships in their lives apart from romantic relationships. Valentine’s Day isn’t a holiday that is just celebrated by someone and their significant other and ignored by everyone else. Single people can celebrate this holiday and use it as a day to cherish all the relationships in their lives. Sometimes it can seem like single people have to spend Feb. 14 being sad and wallowing in self-pity, or they have to be actively trying to pursue a relationship just to celebrate the holiday. While romantic partners can be a big part of your life and deserve to be celebrated, your relationship status doesn’t determine your worth. And it doesn’t determine whether you can celebrate a holiday all about love. Love is not just romantic. Love is in our
everyday lives. The love that we have for friends and family is so important and those relationships shape us into who we are as people. Familial relationships can oftentimes be overlooked on Valentine’s Day, since the holiday is typically focused on romantic relationships. But the relationships we have with our family is still just as important and plays a huge role in our development as people. Whether you celebrate family on Valentine’s Day by sending them some chocolates from the store or just by giving them a call, it’s nice to show them
your appreciation during this season of love. Just by doing something nice for your sibling, a parent or a grandparent, you can show them how much you love them. Friendships are another important aspect of everyday life that you can show some extra love to on Valentine’s Day. Our friends are the people who make us laugh, the people whom we want to tell about our recent cooking disaster or to rant about the stresses of classes with. Friends play such a large role in your life and can let you be your true authentic self. In many cases, friendships can
often form a second family. Once again, love isn’t always romantic. It can be shown all the time in friendships. Tell your friends you love them and not just on Valentine’s Day. Take some time to hang out with them, which can be done virtually and as simple as a FaceTime call. Nobody says you can’t spoil your friends on Valentine’s Day, give them some chocolates or a cute teddy bear. Or better yet, hit up the clearance on Feb. 15 with them and get some cheap candy. This past year has taught us to truly value all the relationships in our lives. We might have to stay apart from those we love, but that is also a form of showing the love you have for them by keeping them safe. This year has made us reflect on who we keep in our lives. Being torn apart from those in your life makes you realize who your real close friends are and just how important they are to you. So this year, if you think you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day alone, maybe you don’t have to. This holiday is not just for those with a romantic partner, but it’s a day to acknowledge and celebrate the love in your life from all aspects.
Editorial Cartoon by Flynn Geraghty | Vidette Art Director
EDITORIAL POLICY Editorial written by ANDREA RICKER, a member of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Editorial policy is determined by the student editor, and views expressed in editorials are those of the majority of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Columns that carry bylines are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Vidette or the university.
Be sentimental, not showy, to your Valentine
n the long list of things in life that I strongly dislike, Valentine’s Day is easily in the top 10. I get it. I may be writing this column as a single person, so what say do I get in this silly holiday? I can promise you this isn’t the reason for my strong dislike for the day. I will say this loud and proud and feel no shame when I say this: Valentine’s Day is just so stupid and such a waste of a day. It’s simply just overrated and needs a makeover. It’s the concept of Valentine’s Day and how
far people are willing to go to “impress” their significant other and show them how much they love them. Besides the half-price candy on Feb. 15 and buying small gifts for my dog, I really just don’t think that all the extra-ness of the holiday is necessary. Why do you need one day to go all out and spoil your significant other when you should be doing that as the bare minimum every other day of the year? Don’t even get me started on the overspending on gifts, over decorating a room with balloons and rose petals on every inch of every single object, the fancy and most expensive dinner possible and any other thing you can think of that is over the top. According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine’s Day spenders plan to spend over $100 on their significant other on average. You can include me in the 27% whom NRF surveyed that will buy gifts for my dog. If
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there were to be a reason for me to celebrate this holiday or buy anything in support of it, it would genuinely be to spoil her. Knowing that though, I personally feel secondhand embarrassment for every person I see walking out of Walmart or Target with bags of Valentine’s Day gifts for their significant other. To me, the reality is that Valentine’s Day generates this idea of going over the top and dedicating so much energy and time into something that should be a given and reserved for other days, such as an anniversary. In my eyes, a nice movie and/or dinner and a dozen roses are as simple as it gets and the best way to spend the day or evening. If you want a gift or want to give a gift, personalize it and make it yourself instead of dropping so much money at Target or Walmart. Maybe I’m just not your average materi-
KELLIE FOY is News Editor for The Vidette. She can be contacted at vidette_kafoy1@ilstu. edu. Follow Foy on Twitter at @kellie_foy.
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THEY SAID IT
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losses in a row for Illinois State men’s basketball. The Redbirds most recently fell to Missouri State Sunday. Their next matchup is on Saturday against the Southern Illinois Salukis.
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alistic person and I have really low expectations for just about everything, but it should be less about the material and more about the quality time spent together. When we’re living through historical events every other day and are still in the middle of a pandemic, spending time with our loved ones and just being in their presence should be plenty. More than ever, we need to take a step back and focus on what makes us happy and what keeps us going during these troubling times. If anything, use this Valentine’s Day as a day for appreciation and gratefulness instead of materialism and over-the-top gifts that won’t be good in a few years. I think those are the things that will be more meaningful to our loved ones anyway.
SPORTS, PAGE 8
degrees is how low the temps are predicted to go this week on Sunday night. The warmest day will be Wednesday at 19 degrees, according to the Weather Channel. Snow showers are expected periodically throughout the week.
Everyone wants to return to normal, and it needs to be a slow process to make sure that it is safe and focusing on everyone’s wellbeing. It is a sign of hope to have people back in the library studying.” Erin Link, director of Communication and Outreach at Milner Library
EDITORIAL BOARD ELIZABETH SEILS Editor in Chief | @SeilsElizabeth ANDREA RICKER Features Editor @ricker_andrea GRACE KINNICUTT News Editor @GKinnicutt KATIE BESTE Night Editor @BesteKatherine
MAIA HUDDLESTON Photo Editor @maiawrites MYA ROBINSON Sports Reporter @Im_Myaaa JOHN MURRAY News Reporter @Jmurr_
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
Campus renovations moving along Construction around campus was pushed back due to COVID-19, but most is set to be completed by the end of year
JOHN MURRAY News Reporter | @Jmurr__
Due to the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting lack of body traffic around Illinois State University’s campus in the past year, many construction projects and maintenance of the university’s infrastructure have been delayed, causing a backlog of projects and forcing ISU Facilities Management to work overtime to get its schedule back on track. As ISU expands in the realm of student population, diversity and in registered student organization capacity – students, faculty and staff will have many newly renovated parts of campus to look forward to in the coming years. From “was that always there?” to “that looks better!” – here are some notable construction and maintenance projects around campus planned for completion in 2021: Additional classrooms in Julian Hall: Conversion of the open area garage under the building to extend the building’s Cyber Security wing. Estimated completion: February 2021. New ISU Multicultural Center: Renovations to the existing Instructional Technology and Development Center building to make room for ISU’s new center that will celebrate campus diversity and promote multicultural awareness. Estimated completion: July 2021. Watterson Towers Penthouse Air Handling Unit replacement: Replacement of existing air-handling units and exhaust fans that provide fresh air supply to all 28 stories of Watterson Towers residence halls. This will improve the quality of air in the dorms and provide an upgrade to the quality of heating and air systems as well. Estimated completion: August 2021. Stevenson Hall maintenance: General renovation of first floor classrooms – including new carpets, fresh coats of paint, enhanced wall protection, new ceiling tile, new lighting and new desks. Estimated completion: August 2021. Fell Hall maintenance: General renovation of first floor classrooms – including new carpets, fresh coats of paint, enhanced wall protection, new ceiling tile, new lighting and new desks. Estimated completion: August 2021. Schroeder Hall Lighting renovations: Conversion of all hallway, classroom and lecture hall lighting to upgraded LED lights. Estimated completion: August 2021. New ISU Esports Student Competition Facility: Meeting room space in ISU’s Bowling & Billiards Center converted into a state-ofthe-art esports facility. Estimated completion: December 2021. Student Services Building – Suites 110 & 185 renovations: Upgrades to interior
design of the 100-level of ISU’s Student Services Building. Estimated completion: December 2021. Other large projects set to begin in 2021, but not estimated to finish until later years, include: Watterson Dining Commons Servery Upgrade & Dining Room Flooring replacement: Substantial renovation and rehabilitation of public food service delivery areas and public dining areas. Estimated completion: September 2022. Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Complex rehabilitation: Plans to demolish one building, renovate three buildings and construct four additions to WKCFA buildings. Smaller renovations to the building on things such as plumbing systems, water fountains and other amenities are scheduled to take place throughout 2021 and 2022. Estimated completion: August 2025. Information provided by Mike Gebeke, ISU’s associate vice president of Facilities Management, Planning & Operations.
Julian Hall across from The Alamo II is being remodeled to make room for more classrooms and should be completed by the end of February. The Multicultural Center will be in the old Instructional Technology and Development Center. The center should be completed by the end of July. PHOTOGRAPHS BY MAIA HUDDLESTON | Photo Editor | @maiawrites
JOHN MURRAY is a News Reporter at The Vidette. He can be contacted at jwmurr1@ilstu. edu. Follow him on Twitter at @Jmurr__.
College of Business students partner with local businesses to upgrade online image JOHN MURRAY News Reporter | @Jmurr__
Company: Wild Country Category: Outdoor Sports Local businesses that particiStudent Tasks: pated in the partnership with Promote local holithe Town of Normal and Ilday shopping via solinois State University’s College cial media and on the of Business students had the company’s website chance to improve their online Company: image and increase visibility, Uptown Gifts & Acwhile the students gained a cessories real-world hands-on experience Category: Gift to help them prepare to enter a Shop challenging job market. Student Tasks: The Town of Normal AssisAlex Gant | Photo Editor | @AlexGant16 Increase online vistant City Manager Eric Hanson Manager of Uptown Gifts & Accessories Lisa Hoffbauer reorga- ibility and improve the called the experience for ISU nizes a shelf of accessories Monday afternoon. rate of digital transacbusiness students working with tions via Shopify and local businesses a “win-win.” social media. “Students benefit from having some real-world expeCompany: Fabulous Affairs rience they can add to their resumes,” Cathy Oloffson Category: Bridal Shop and Boutique/Wedding Planner explained. “And, the businesses benefit from the fresh Student Tasks: Improve listing rates on theknot.com, perspective offered by the students.” enhance social media marketing strategy (regarding ChristOloffson added that the business owners appreciated mas shopping, supporting local shopping and supporting their experiences with the ISU CoB students: “that students small businesses). were able to make meaningful assessments and help idenStudents participating in the program are members of tify improvements they [the local businesses] could make in ISU’s chapter of the American Marketing Association, their social media and online presence.” Business Information Systems Club and various senior Aaron Charlton, assistant professor in the department of capstone classes. marketing at ISU, provided a list of the projects.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Responsible Cities endorses Mollie Ward for Bloomington City Council Ward 7 alderman Political action committee Responsible Cities is endorsing Mollie Ward for Bloomington City Council Ward 7 Alderman. "Ms. Ward was appointed by the mayor Nov. 9, 2020 and confirmed by a 7-0 vote of the council. She is committed to supporting programs and policies that would benefit Ward 7 and is also committed to community development. She has a practical view of how Tax Incentive Financing ought to be employed and would balance new business attraction efforts with support of local, especially minority-owned, businesses," the press release stated. The committee interviewed Ward 7 candidates Mr. Daniel Freburg and Ms. June Peterson-Middlebrooks. The PAC applauds the willingness of the other two candidates to serve the community but believes Ward is best suited to provide representation with her skills to interact with her constituents. Responsible Cities believes Ward is well-qualified and has already demonstrated she can build consensus among her council colleagues. Responsible Cities says they support leaders who are dedicated to building an improved quality of life, put the needs of community first, advocate for continued economic investment and growth and demonstrate commitment to social change. GRACE KINNICUTT | NEWS EDITOR | @GKINNICUTT
PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE
COVID-19 COUPLES Continued from Page 1
Maintaining the relationship
sure he knew I was still there for him.” “My mental health was a big Though it may seem exhaustworry for me in the beginning,” ing at times, adaptability is the Heartland Community College key to maintaining a successful student Tyler Kaufman said. “I relationship. suffered a lot of anxiety trying “No part about this last year to juggle the recovery of my was something we expected, heart surgery in April, everybut I think our love and thing happening with COVdedication to each other really ID-19 and my relationship with showed during quarantine,” my girlfriend, Julia, who I now Kaufman said. couldn’t even see in person.” “I know it’s cliche for couples For couples who do not live to say, but I’m happy and together, being present in a proud we made it through, and relationship during a time I honestly don’t know what life where touch would be like and visitation without having “No part about are prohibited Julia’s help and has become inthis last year was support then and creasingly diffisomething we now,” Kaufman cult — the bond said. expected, but I that flourished “Ty and I have before the think our love and worked extra COVID-19 hard to keep the dedication to each world is put to peace and hapthe test. other really showed piness between “All I have during quarantine.” us, and even to say is, bless though it hasn’t the good ole Heartland student Tyler Kaufman been easy by cellphone for any means, we keeping our don’t take it for granted,” Miller communication consistent over said. “The first year of our this past year,” Kaufman’s girlrelationship was an emotional friend, Illinois State University roller coaster, under different senior Julia Miller, said. circumstances than most, but I “I wasn’t physically allowed discovered my best friend and to be there for my boyfriend partner for life through through one of the hardest it … and lookmoments of his life in his ing back I heart surgery, and for a wouldn’t while I had a bone to pick change a with COVID for that,” thing.” Miller said. “But at the end of the day it was just really important for me to make For Tyler Kaufman and Julia Miller, they have been able to stay connected digitally throughout the pandemic and as Kaufman recovered from surgery. Photo Courtesy of Tyler Kaufman and Julia Miller
Features
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
Long distance But what about those who stumbled across their person during COVID-19? Is it possible to nurture a relationship under conditions that forbid meeting face to face for the foreseeable future? Sure, long-distance relationships have existed since the start of dating, but even in those situations the possibility for physicality is there. In the age of social distancing and trying to care for one’s health above all else, these two ideas don’t seem that different. “Honestly I’m used to long distance, so COVID hasn’t really affected my relationship in that way,” University of Chicago senior Anna Marsili said. “Being with someone in the past and then going away to different colleges kind of prepares you for a relationship that depends on friendship and genuine connection anyway, so it was easy Photo courtesy of Anna Marsili to skip the physical talking and dating stages with Austin.” ISU senior Austin Mayberry and his As with all relationships, girlfriend Anna Marsili are navigating the world of beginning a relationship while those close and those long also being long distance and maintaining distance, a connection and conCOVID-19 guidelines.
sistent way of communication is still required in order to be successful. With COVID-19 in the air, the ways in which couples are going about developing that connection has been shifted. “When we first started dating, Anna wasn’t big into video games like I am,” Marsili’s boyfriend, ISU senior Austin Mayberry, said. “But since we couldn’t hang out in person, she learned how to play some of my favorite games so we could talk more and hang out that way.” “It was really sweet and meant a lot to me,” Mayberry said. “Now we have dates on our Discord channel watching anime or playing games and I really wouldn’t rather do anything else.” “Of course, I wish I could see Austin in person more and miss that part of our relationship sometimes, but I also really like the uniqueness of our video game nights and virtual dates, falling asleep together on Discord. It’s what makes our relationship ours,” Marsili said. Couples young and old are testing the waters with what works and what does not in terms of quarantine dating and finding the path toward a mask wearing, vaccine having, COVID-19-free relationship.
Staying single In a time of isolation, dating apps have become a way to cure boredom rather than find a long-time partner for those who are single. “I barely use Tinder or Bumble anymore; they kind of just live on my phone in case I have some down time and nothing better to do,” ISU senior Darion White said. “When lockdown first started, I felt empty and hated being alone, so I was on them pretty regularly. I had a few good matches and conversations that lasted a while, but nothing really fulfilling.” Since the start of quarantine, the internet has made it a major priority to remind people that their mental health is important and needs to be cared for. Selfhelp tips and tricks have become increasingly common as those struggling with the anxiety of being alone have found them exceptionally helpful. “My main takeaway from quarantine so far has been that I am an independent, strong and positive woman, and that I am deserving of love and attention,” White said. “I’ve pushed myself this past year to let a lot of things go and work on moving towards the person I want to be. When you’re stuck with yourself 24 hours a day, you’re better off loving her than hating her.” Through reflection, patience and a great deal of flexibility, healthy and lasting connections are not as impossible as the world’s current state may make them seem.
Photo courtesy of Darion White
ISU senior Darion White has learned to prioritize self-care during quarantine while staying single.
Whether it is with yourself or a loved one, taking the time to appreciate the wholesome parts in a relationship while nurturing and mending the bruised ones can lead to a much needed and fulfilling companion through an endless time of uncertainty. GRACE DOYLE is a Features Reporter for The Vidette. She can be contacted at gedoyl1@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @Amaaziinggracee.
Date night, movies to fall in love with CHELSEA CORA News Reporter | @cora_chelsea
As many know, Valentine’s Day is coming up and there are not many options when it comes to going out these days. Whether you have a special someone this Valentine’s Day or you are simply spending it with friends, here are some romance movies to stay in and watch this year.
‘The Notebook’
thing when she shows him that life is worth living. Their feelings become stronger and their hearts begin to bond in ways they never thought possible.
‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’
“To All the Boys I’ve Loved This classic romance movie is Before” is without sure to be hit. Starring Ryan Gosa doubt one of ling as mill worker Noah Calhoun the most popular and Rachel McAdams as rich girl romance/drama Allie, the two fall desperately in movies that came love. Unfortunately, Allie’s parents out over the past don’t approve and when Noah couple years. It goes off to serve in World War II, is directed by Allie becomes seriously involved with another man. However, when Bettina Strauss/Netflix/TNS Susan Johnson and is available Noah returns during the wedding of “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” and the sequel “P.S. I still Love You” are both for streaming Allie and her new lover, they realize available to watch on Netflix. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the third movie in the on Netflix. A shy that their romance is far from over. series, “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before: Always and Forever,” released on Netflix high school girl, “The Notebook” was directed by Friday. Lara Jean (Lana Nick Cassavetes and is available YouTube, Vudu and Amazon Prime Video. This Condor), writes to stream on Hulu with a premium tearjerker movie is about a young woman, love letters when she develops a crush on a subscription and on Amazon Prime Video for Louisa Clark (Emilia Clarke), who becomes a boy. But being her shy self, she never con$3.99. caregiver for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin) who fronts them about her feelings. One day her ‘Me Before You’ is a young and wealthy banker who was left deepest secrets are revealed to all of her past Directed by Thea Sharrock, “Me Before paralyzed from an accident two years before infatuations, and she develops a plan to save You” is available for streaming for $3.99 on they met. Louisa changes Will’s view on every-
herself from embarrassment. However, it all changes when her fake plan with Peter (Noah Centineo) turns into more than fake. There is also a sequel to the movie called “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before: P.S. I Still Love You” that is available to watch on Netflix.
‘After’ This recent teen favorite was directed by Jenny Gage and stars Hero Fiennes Tiffin as Hardin Scott and Josephine Langford as Tessa Young. This movie tells a love story about Tessa Young, an intelligent college student and loyal girlfriend to her high school sweetheart, who enters her first semester of college only to see her life change when she meets Hardin. Hardin gives off a mysterious, bad boy, rebel personality and makes Tessa question everything she thought she knew about herself and what she wants for her future. There is also a sequel called “After we Collided” and both films can be streamed on Netflix with a subscription or Amazon Prime Video and YouTube for $3.99.
‘The Kissing Booth’ When high school student Elle’s (Joey King) first kiss leads to a secret and forbidden romance with the hottest boy in high school, Noah (Jacob Elordi), she risks her relationship with her best friend Lee (Joel Courtney), Noah’s younger brother. The movie is directed by Vince Marcello, and there is also “The Kissing Booth 2.” Both movies are available to stream on Netflix.
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 7
Out of pool Bernhardt still making waves for ISU KEN KANOON Sports Reporter | @Ken_k____
to have the team gather so we definitely do a lot more virtual gatherings but I think we are a really tight-knit group,” Bernhardt said. “Everybody is there for one another ndie Bernhardt medically retired and we are always supporting each other. from diving the day she found out When times are hard, we know that we can that she needed shoulder surgery. talk to any of our teammates and they're Entering this season, she was forced to sit here to push us. It is a really great team out of the sport which she has competed in environment.” for the past three years. Even now she remains focused on putting Despite her injury, Bernhardt is still a key the team above all. Bernhardt explained player on the Illinois State women’s diving that this strange year has derailed many team that is on the hunt for glory. plans and that she wants to help her teamWhile Bernhardt may not be able to dive mates have as close to a normal season as in her final season on the team, she is one possible. of the most important and impactful lead“I know with COVID, everything is uncerers on the Redbird diving team. As one of tain right now. I just am really hoping that the few seniors, Bernhardt was handed this my teammates can get as much of a regular enormous responsibility, but she dove into season as possible. That we are still able to this new challenge headfirst. have these competitions and have a cham“I’m medically retired now, so I have pionship season ... I know all these girls are gone out of the pool, but I still show up working really hard and are driven to sucat practices and listen to my teammates ceed this year," Bernhardt said. to see what they need,” Bernhardt said. “I Bernhardt reflected on her four-year encourage them outside of the pool and I’ve stint diving for the Redbirds. She said that been in their ear to make sure. I’m there on Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics watching the team grow and seeing her perthe side of things cheering everybody on, sonal joy experienced while on the team making sure everyone is having a good time, Illinois State’s Andie Bernhardt diving at a meet during last season. highlights her career. trying to motivate them and seeing if there “I’m really happy to be a part of this team. is anything I can do to help out around practice be hard, especially for the freshmen since we together for us to bond so everyone knows that can’t do the large group gatherings. So, orga- we are a family,” Bernhardt said. It’s been an amazing four years here and it’s or outside of the pool.” In addition, the leadership of Bernhardt been awesome to see [my teammates] evolve Although officially done competing due to nizing ways for the team to bond, doing virtual meetings and we’ve split up into groups and helped construct a healthy team culture on in my four years here and I am really excited her injuries, Bernhardt is still a prominent do what we can safely in COVID,” Bernhardt the Redbird diving team. Along with her fellow to see where the future will take us.” voice in the locker room. Knowing the weight said. seniors, Bernhardt feels that the current team’s of her voice, she became a vocal leader for the While making her own strides in becomculture is excellent but notes that with COVIDteam while times were uncertain. KEN KANOON is Sports Reporter for The Viing a leader, Bernhardt also praised her fellow 19 it is difficult to maintain. “I think especially with the pandemic, comdette. He can be contacted at kjkanoo@ilstu. “I think the team culture is great. It has defimunication has been key ... I know this can seniors in creating a family environment. edu. Follow him on Twitter at @Ken_k____. “I think that all the seniors have come nitely been a lot harder with COVID, it’s harder
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SPORTS IN BRIEF Gymnastics victorious in home opener Despite a slow start in the first rotation Saturday, the Illinois State gymnastics team flipped the switch in the second rotation, taking the lead over Southeast Missouri State and never looking back. The Redbirds went on to narrowly defeat the Redhawks 192.075190.925 in Horton Field House. After falling short in the first meet of the season, Illinois State’s gymnastics team bounced back Saturday to pick up its first victory of the season in its home opener. “I’m so proud of our team right now. We had a lot of the team out of workouts last week and to have most of them back this week was great,” ISU head coach Bob Conkling told goredbirds.com. “We have some work to do this week, but it was a big step Nickolas Parra | Photographer forward for the team. I’m excited to see them Angelica Labat performs continue to move forward and improve for next her routine on the beam in weekend’s two competitions.” Saturday's home match Following the first rotation, Illinois State took against SEMO. the early lead with a score of 48.125 on vault to SEMO's score of 46.975. After the slow start, help from Angelica Labat and Isabelle Fox proved to be the difference maker in all aspects Saturday afternoon. Labat narrowly edged her teammate 38.775-38.725 for the all-around crown and posted the top score on the beam (9.775) to lead the squad. Illinois State will be back in action next weekend in the GymQuarters Invitational in St. Charles, Missouri. The invitational will include Lindenwood, Eastern Michigan, Southeast Missouri, Air Force and Ball State.
Smith leaps to top 10 in NCAA; Calvin weighs in national rankings Illinois State senior high jumper Kameesha Smith spared no time in making her presence known in her season debut at the Don DeNoon Invitational hosted by Southern Illinois. Smith, who is no stranger to the national spotlight, capped off the meet Saturday with a personal best mark of 1.80 meters (5-10.75 feet) to win the event. The mark currently leads the Missouri Valley Conference in the event, and ties for No. 8 in the national ranks. Smith also now has the No. 2 all-time jump in Redbird track and field history. Following Smith's strong performance, the Redbirds Kameesha Smith went 1-2-3-4 in the high jump, with Grace Daun, Kristin Higgins and Carly Tucker completing the Redbird sweep. For the men, Logan Calvin highlighted Friday's contest in Carbondale, throwing a personal best of 20.83 meters (68-4.25 feet) in the weight throw to win the event and improve on his own national standing. Calvin currently leads the MVC in the event, surpassing a nationally ranked mark by Darius King from Northern Iowa in the process. The redshirt-junior also ranks No. 3 all-time in Illinois State school history and Logan Calvin comes in at No. 15 in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. In the shot put, Calvin recorded a 1-centimeter personal best of 18.51 meters (60-8.75 feet) to improve upon his No. 2 mark in school history. His throw ranks No. 2 in the Valley and No. 21 in the NCAA.
Eagles claw to victory over Redbirds
Santos shines as Redbirds fall in season opener 3-2 in Milwaukee KEN KANOON Sports Reporter | @Ken_k____
Illinois State women’s soccer opened the season on Sunday at Marquette, falling by a single goal. Senior midfielder Ashley Santos scored a pair of goals for the Redbirds’ only goals of the game, as they fell to Marquette 3-2 in Milwaukee. Marquette and Illinois State tested the opposition goalkeepers early with Santos also registering the first shot on goal; the only shot and shot on goal for the Redbirds in the entire first half. The Redbird’s keeper Prisya Gillan made a big save in the 13th minute from Marquette forward Elania Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics Eckert, as Eckert attempted a shot Ashley Santos in action for the Illinois State soccer team. Santos scored a from outside the box that was caught pair of goals Sunday, but the Redbirds fell to Marquette 3-2 in Milwaukee. by Gillan. ISU was once again called into the right flank from Elsi Twombly, Marquette took the action as Marquette whipped in a corner that was saved lead 2-1 in the 59th minute. off the line by a Redbird defender in the 22nd minute. Eckert then doubled the Golden Eagles’ lead, streaking The Golden Eagles began a relent- past the Redbirds’ defense to chip the ball over Gillan in less attack on the Redbirds after the the 74th minute, pushing the lead to 3-1. It was Eckert’s 40th minute as Gillan was forced first of the game from a well-placed ball by Marquette’s into another save against a Mar- Sprecher. quette corner. Less than five minutes later, Santos shot the ball into Gillan ended the half making six the top left corner, beating Marquette keeper Mikki saves and facing 10 shots in total Easter for her second goal of the game. compared to the Redbirds' one shot The Redbirds were unable to find another goal, as they and one shot on goal. The score was fell to Marquette 3-2 in their first game of the season. 0-0 at halftime. Gillan ended the game saving seven shots of the 10 she Ashley Santos Entering the second half, the game faced. remained 0-0 with the Redbirds ISU’s starting 11 played a tired game, with six athletes shooting five times with only two shots on target and the logging a full 90 minutes in Sunday’s matchup. ISU goalkeeper Gillan forced into five saves. Marquette came out firing in the second half thanks UP NEXT to a goal from Kylie Sprecher 41 seconds into the second The Redbirds’ next game is against Unihalf. However, ISU pegged them back less than a minute versity of Illinois-Springfield for ISU’s second later thanks to Santos, who scored her first of two goals exhibition game. The game begins at 8:40 p.m. to tie the game at 1-1. Feb. 11 in Pekin. The teams did not remain tied for long, as the Golden Eagles struck back. Thanks to a magnificent run down
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Sports
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021
Redbirds stumped by Sycamores Indiana State bounces back, avoids sweep MIKEY FORNELLI Sports Reporter | @mfojr
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o far in 2021, the Illinois State volleyball team has been great at bouncing back and winning Day Two after a loss to start a doubleheader series. All season, the team has emphasized that it is all about beating the performance from the day before. Monday night, Indiana State used that strategy against them and proved yet again how tough it is for one team to win two days in a row against the same opponent. The Sycamores bested the Redbirds in four sets, their first win over Illinois State since 2013. This came the day after the Redbirds won in five sets to open the weekend series, their first Day One win of the young season when it comes to these twoday doubleheaders. “The Indiana State team we saw this weekend is the best I’ve seen them,” Illinois State head coach Leah Johnson said. “They had an answer for everything. They scored in all areas of the net and put pressure on us.” As one would expect the day after a close five-set thriller, the start of set one Monday night was full of backand-forth scoring. The Sycamores took the lead and started to pull away at 10-9, but the Redbirds went on a run and tied it at 18-all after being down by as much as four. They continued to play catch-up but kept it close, but ultimately fell 25-22 in the first set. Kaitlyn Prondzinski shined through the set loss with six kills of her own and finished the match with 11. The Redbirds came out strong in set two, taking a 5-1 lead. After giving up that lead, Kaity Weimerskirch’s two service aces in a row sparked a 5-0 run to take it back 16-13. This still was not enough, as Indiana State ended up taking the
Indiana State’s Karinna Gall going for a spike while Illinois State’s Nicole Lund (16) and Kaylee Martin (4) go for a block. set by an identical score of 25-22. When Indiana State took the lead again late in the set, Stef Jankiewicz subbed into the match and to make her first appearance since Jan. 30 against Cincinnati. She and fellow All-Missouri Valley Conference senior Sydney Holt, who did not play again Monday, had been out for multiple games for undisclosed reasons. Jankiewicz had two kills, six digs and 19 assists in her return to the court. The Redbirds did get a 25-20 win
in set three, much in part to a great effort from senior Kaylee Martin. After missing the game Feb. 1 against Bradley, she came back strong in both games this weekend — 22 and 19 kills in each game respectively, which were both match highs. However in set four, the Sycamores came out on fire and never went out. They won the final set by eight points, 25-17. Indiana State’s Gretchen Kuckkan got her 17th kill to win the match, which led her team.
Illinois State committed 42 total errors throughout the match, 12 more than the Indiana State; which shows adjustments were key for the Sycamores in Day Two of the series. “We had streaks, but the whole weekend felt high and low with execution,” Johnson said. “I thought we did a nice job with overall effort and competitiveness, but our execution was streaky.” The Redbirds now fall back to .500 in both conference and overall play.
UP NEXT The Drake Bulldogs come to town for a pair of games starting at 6 p.m. on Feb. 14-15. The Redbirds and the Bulldogs have had a similar opponent this season. Both teams have taken on the Marquette Golden Eagles. Drake was swept in their lone matchup. ISU managed to split the series after a game one sweep.
Courtesy of Indiana State Athletics
(2-2, 4-4) They will return home to Normal on Sunday for a Valentine’s Day battle against another tough conference opponent in Drake, who has started off the year 5-1. Their only loss came against No. 25 Marquette, who the Redbirds split in their opening weekend series. Sunday’s game against Drake is the first of four straight home matches over the next two weekends, which Johnson says will be beneficial for the team. “We’re excited and ready to be back in Redbird Arena for the next couple of weeks,” Johnson said. “With so many people on our roster getting opportunities and experience, that should only aid us in the long run.”
Bears bite ’Birds, losing streak at six JAKE SERMERSHEIM Sports Editor | @jakesermersheim
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llinois State men’s basketball shocked many with their home win over Bradley earlier this season. So far that has marked the high point for the Redbirds. But since the win over the Braves, the Redbirds have been experiencing new lows. With a 72-62 loss to Missouri State on Sunday in game two of the series, ISU’s losing streak reaches six games. This is just one game away from matching their longest losing streak of the 2019-20 season. Illinois State junior guard Josiah Strong expressed how the Redbirds were tired of losing. “For younger guys, you are used to winning every game in high school,” Strong said. “On the other hand, we know what it takes to win. Now we have this feeling we do not want to feel this anymore. We have to come together and get over this hump for sure.” ISU had their chance late. With 4:21 left in the second half, the Redbirds were riding high after a DJ Horne three-pointer inched the game closer at 63-60. The Redbirds were trying to regain a lead they held for over two minutes early in the second. The Redbirds went into a timeout with Nickolas Parra | Photographer | @NickoolasParra something that has not happened often this Missouri State’s Nic Tata dunking over Illinois season; a one-possession game with under five State freshman Harouna Sissoko during the minutes left. pair’s two-game series
“Throughout this year we have not had many games that have come down to the last five minutes,” Strong said. “The more and more games we have under our belt we are getting better and more comfortable. We are kind of just growing. The more we grow that is when we get over the hump.” But just as the tides looked like they could have been turning for ISU, the offense went on a fatal cold stretch after MSU’s timeout. After the timeout ISU only made two more shots; a pair of Strong free throws. The Redbirds finished the game shooting just 0-for-8. “Towards the end, I missed a couple of looks, (Antonio Reeves) missed a couple of looks,” Strong said. “That hurt towards the end as well. That hurts towards the end. Hats off to them for executing.” ISU head coach Dan Muller could not place if the Bears’ physical approach was what
Nickolas Parra | Photographer
Illinois State’s Antonio Reeves and Emon Washington fighting for the ball against Missouri State in the Redbirds’ 72-62 loss.
caused the late breakdown. “I would have to watch it again. I am not sure on each of them,” Muller said. “I know we got some good looks in that stretch. I know Antonio took a lot of them and he has been so good lately we will keep going to him. I do not know if it was physicality or fatigue but in a close game if you do not make a bucket in your last four minutes you won’t win.” Muller also cited slow production, due to guards struggling against the Bears. ISU guards shot 19-for-56 (33%) from field goal range. Which included guards missing all eight shots down the stretch. Despite offensive struggles from the Redbirds, Muller thought the Redbirds made improvements in some aspects. In game one of the series, ISU coughed up the ball 14. This was a reason Muller cited yesterday’s loss. Sunday saw the Redbirds cut down their turnovers to nine. “We did take care of the ball and that is a big deal because I thought our turnovers yesterday hurt us late in the game,” Muller said. “Those numbers were good. The game came down to some defensive stretches where we did not guard. Mostly I thought it was our offensive execution.” The Redbird late game collapse had Strong lamenting on the Redbirds being unable to get over the edge. uEXPANDED STORY @ Videtteonline.com