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THE VIDETTE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 Vol. 133 | No. 5

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Making every vote count

Redbirds ready for National Voter Registration Day GRACE KINNICUTT News Editor | @GKinnicutt

T #RedbirdsVote buttons were given to students who registered to vote on Constitution Day. Illinois State University kicked off a friendly competition Tuesday with Illinois Wesleyan and Heartland Community College to register and pledge students to vote. Photo illustration by ZOE WOOD | @Zoe_Rae10

uesday marks National Voter Registration Day. The goal of National Voter Registration Day is to remind and ensure that Americans are signed up to vote in the next election.

National Voter Registration Day is a nonpartisan civic holiday to celebrate the United States democracy. The day was first observed in 2012 and has been continued ever since. Nearly 3 million voters have registered to vote on the holiday to date. Due to COVID-19, the way many people vote has changed. Since guidelines of social distancing, wearing masks and occupancy in a room must be followed, there has been an increase in mail-in ballots. “It is important to register to vote early so you can be prepared on Election Day. Especially in these circumstances, you need to plan ahead, and know how you are going to vote this election cycle,” Sarah

Feltes, senior political science student, said. “With COVID still very much present in our communities, many have opted to vote by mail. That takes time, so you need to register ASAP if you plan to vote that way.” “In fact, when you do register, most places will ask you if you would like to vote by mail now. If you decide to wait, Illinois does have same-day (in-person) voter registration, but we are not exactly sure what it will look like in this election.” In McLean, County Clerk Kathy Michael has seen an increase of demand for mail-in ballots compared to previous elections. Mail-in ballots can be found online on the McLean county clerk website under voting and registration or simply searching for voter registration in the county one desires to vote in for the upcoming general election. See VOTER on Page 3

ELECTION COVERAGE: ISU community encourages young people to vote — PAGE 3 VIDETTE EDITORIAL: It’s time for young voters to make it count — PAGE 4

PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

Looking ahead to spring semester ALEXIS PLUMMER News Reporter | @Lexi1Oliver

s the semester has been going on for five weeks, many have been wondering what is to come for next semester. Last spring, Illinois State University students were sent home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Planning for next semester has begun since Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Andover Tarhule mentioned during the Board of Trustee meeting Sept. 12 that he would like to have spring plans finalized sooner rather than later. With spring registration starting in midOctober, administration feels it would be ideal to have it finalized considering the last-minute changes made for fall semester. “A team of faculty, staff and students have been charged with exploring a variety of topics related to spring such as, but not limited to, virtual instruction and the spring academic calendar. A meeting [was] scheduled for [Monday]. At that time, the team will consider possible scenarios and the merits and demerits of those scenarios,” Assistant of the Provost Jean Ann Dargatz said. Needless to say, this meeting will have a strong impact not only on the staff or students but for ISU as a whole. This meeting will determine what the setup for classes during the spring

will be like for students and professors and how operations will look for the rest of the university faculty. “We have a committee that is looking at the different options we have, whether we will start the class late or whether we will cancel spring breaks so that students don’t have to travel back and forth,” Tarhule said. “I personally would like to have that decision made sooner rather than later.” The administration is looking into the future to plan for any possible outcomes and what might be best for everyone as COVID-19 continVidette Archive ues to be spread among the community. Online classes will possibly carry over into spring “At that time, the team will consider possible semester. scenarios and the merits and demerits of those changing day-to-day with how we live and interscenarios,” Dargatz said. act with each other along with our education. One possible scenario that was talked about at “A survey will then be sent to faculty, staff the board meeting and being discussed further and students for feedback on the options under is the possibility of spring semester starting later than Jan. 11 and spring break possibly being can- consideration. The survey will be available for one week,” Dargatz said. celed to help limit travel and spread of the virus. Having feedback from students, staff and Everyone has been impacted by COVID-19 faculty to refer back to during the planning of and with the threat of COVID-19 not going spring semester will help in the planning of how away anytime soon, it is ideal to plan as much spring semester will run and what mistakes to as possible and as soon as possible so students, fix. staff and faculty can get an idea of what spring “We hope to have most details finalized before semester will possibly look like. the beginning of spring registration. No final deEveryone must continue to work together to help plan for the spring semester as COVID-19 is cisions regarding the spring semester have been made at this time.”

COVID-19 by the numbers in McLean County and ISU as of Monday 3,163 cases in McLean 15 new cases on Monday in McLean 0 new cases at ISU 4.7% seven-day positivity rate thru Sept. 13

3.9% positivity rate at ISU. 1,415 students at ISU positive for COVID-19

67,000 total tested in McLean County

2,553 individuals in home isolation in McLean County

8,400 tests conducted at ISU so far Courtesy of ISU Coronavirus Dashboard

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Required testing for residence halls KELLIE FOY News Editor | @kellie_foy

Illinois State University and University Housing announced that students living in residence halls will be required to participate in on-campus testing for COVID-19 starting Monday. In an email sent out to on-campus students Friday evening, University Housing plans to conduct screenings regularly. More details will be provided to students in the coming days about the whereabouts and when the screenings will specifically take place. “This screening will involve testing a random selection of students who are living in on-campus housing to identify asymptomatic individuals in order to help prevent additional spread of the virus,” Director of University Housing Services Stacey Mwilambwe said in the email. ISU Director of Media Relations Eric Jome echoed this, saying the plan includes regularly notifying different groups of students to get tested as time goes on. “There will be sort of a rolling basis that will [include] different groups of students being notified, so that we have a consistent number of people going through testing as time goes along,” Jome said. After the screenings for on-campus students are implemented, Jome said the university plans to look at how the University of Illinois of Urbana-Champaign’s saliva testing will be implemented across campus. “At the moment, we’re looking specifically at students living on campus because that’s kind of an easier audience to target,” Jome said. “As we go forward with setting up infrastructure for bringing the saliva-based testing to campus that is coming out of U of I, we’re going to be able to look at further expansion of those kind of testing capabilities as time goes along.”

The Vidette

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 2020 University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3

‘We have such an impact on local elections’ Members of Illinois State community encourage young people to vote MEGHAN FORTUNATO News Reporter | @Meghanfortunato

ith the United States presidential election right around the corner, Democrat Joe Biden and President Donald Trump are this year’s nominees. Less than two months away, this year’s election will be one for the books, expecting a large voter turn-out compared to previous elections in the past. The importance of voting has become a trend for all ages, but especially focused on young adults participating in the upcoming election. Some may be wondering what the best alternative is to vote this year due to the impact of the coronavirus. The voting options consist of mail-in ballots or still participating at polling stations in-person. Dr. Kerri Milita, Illinois State University associate professor in the politics department, explains more surrounding the cautionary measures to take when voting. “If you are a person that the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] denotes as high risk, pre-existing health conditions for yourself or someone in your immediate family, voting by mail could be a great and safe option,” Milita said. “However, it’s likely that poll workers are being trained thoroughly in how to conduct Election Day using proper precautions, masks, hand sanitizer, cleaning of election machines [and] social distancing.” As students encouraging their peers to vote in this year’s presidential election, vote-by-mail campaigns are suggesting more young people cast their ballots this year or go to voting stations around campus to lower the risk of COVID-19. “We’ve already seen involvement from young people increase when candidates hold virtual town hall meetings,” Milita said. “Perhaps when politicians speak the language of younger voters, and younger voters feel heard, they’ll respond to that.” College of Democrats communication chair Olivia Swiech goes on to advocate for students who are looking to advocate their voice, not just in the presidential election but focused more towards local elections. “You have Betsy Dirksen Landrigan. She’s running for election to be in the U.S. House of Representatives and she is going to represent the 13th congressional district, which includes ISU,” Swiech said.

Zoe Wood | Photographer | @zoe_rae10

Illinois State University holds many opportunities on the quad for students, faculty and staff to register to vote. The Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning and ISU hold multiple civic engagement opportunities and initiatives throughout the year. “She lost by about 200 votes in 2018. I think for college kids especially it’s important for us to vote because we have such an impact on local elections.” People who want to vote in person are recommended to go in early to vote instead of waiting until the day of on Nov. 3. Polling station workers tend to be older adults or are retired. This year, they will not be participating due to the risk of safety from COVID-19. “Obviously the presidential election is important, but I really think ISU students should take a look at local elections

PREPARE FOR NOVEMBER ELECTION

In order to be a registered voter, you must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years or older on or before the date of the general election, must live in your election precinct 30 days before the election, not serving a sentence of confinement in any penal institution as a result of a conviction or you cannot claim the right to vote anywhere else. Illinois residents can sign up to vote online until Oct. 18 and in person any time before the election and on Election Day.  On the voter registration website, you can also look up to make sure you are a registered voter.

REQUEST A MAIL-IN BALLOT

 To request a mail-in ballot, voters must click on the PDF link, fill it out and either mail it to the county clerk office or hand deliver it. All requests for a mail-in ballot must be in before Oct. 29.

 Voters will need to fill out the form with their name, address at which they currently live and the previous address they were registered at along with their former county. Mail-in ballot applications must be sent or delivered to the county clerk office 28 days before the election.  If students are requesting a mail-in ballot and live in the dorms, they must change their previous dorm room number even if they moved directly across from their old dorm room or moved to a different floor.  Students who previously lived in the dorms and moved to an apartment also need to change their address.  Requesting a mail-in ballot can also be done in person at the county clerk office along with changing an address.

OR, KNOW WHERE TO VOTE  If you prefer to vote in person, there are several polling places available.

 Polling places in Normal include, but are not limited to, the Bone Student Center, Normal Township Hall, Oakdale Elementary School and the Heartland Community College Astroth Center.

VOTER

Continued from Page 1

For students who will be living in McLean County during the election, Michael urges students to register in McLean to vote as soon as possible. But at the end of the day, Michael urges students to vote wherever it may be as long as they “just vote.” “If you know who you’re going to vote for, register to vote. If you are living [in McLean County] — register to vote here. Don’t put [registration] off. Don’t lose your vote,” Michael said. If individuals are going to vote in person, early voting in McLean County starts from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday at the Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington. Early voting for students at Illinois State University will begin Oct. 26 in the Bone Student Center Founder’s Suite and the Rosa Parks Room in Watterson. Waiting until Election Day to register might cause a longer wait

because that’s where we really have potential to completely change things,” Swiech said. From the local election to the presidential election, it is important to make sure if voting offsite of an official polling place to cast in votes sooner than later is possible. If it is through mail, absentee or proxy, individuals are encouraged to submit their vote in advance. MEGHAN FORTUNATO is a News Reporter for The Vidette. She can be contacted at mefortu@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @Meghanfortunato.

“The outcome of this election will have the most impact on our generation. Not just in the immediate future, but for years, decades and more to come.” Sarah Feltes, senior political science major time since individuals will have to take the extra time to sign the forms to vote. “Lines will move faster if you already registered to vote. With COVID-19, expect longer lines due to having to social distance,” Michael said. When it comes to registering to vote, the sooner the better. “All in all, you can think of it like this — have you ever procrastinated on an assignment, only to be stressed and overwhelmed when you are scrambling last minute to get it done?” Feltes said. “Think of registering to vote somewhat like that. The more you wait, the less time and more stress you have. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about.” It is important the students know just how much their vote matters, especially in general elections. “The outcome of this election will have the most impact on our generation. Not just in the immediate future, but for years, decades and more to come. Ask me this question a week ago, and I would tell you then (and even still today) that for students our age, it’s important to be informed, aware and

engaged,” Feltes said. “Our country is going through some unprecedented times. If we want to see change, it starts at the grassroots level, and with our votes. The most important thing our generation has is our voices, and when you go out and become informed, aware and engaged, you can vote to make change happen.” Senior mass media student Kaleigh Kreis echoed this, saying that college students can have a big impact on future generations and how things play out when they participate in politics and regularly participate in elections. “It’s especially important for college students to vote because historically our age group doesn’t vote. When younger people don’t vote, we let older people decide our future. The effects of the next election will have a more direct effect on the younger generation and for longer,” Kreis said. One single vote can help determine who will be in charge of what during the next four years. “If you don’t vote, you are turning a blind eye and allowing others to determine the fate of our country,” Kreis said. “You may think your vote does not matter, but they add up. There are many underrepresented groups who have a lot to lose with the outcome of this election and they need people.” Zoe Wood | Photographer | @zoe_rae10

Illinois State University holds many opportunities for students, faculty and staff to register to vote.

Viewpoint

PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE

VIDETTE EDITORIAL

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

It’s time for young voters to make it count

or many students, this election will be their first time to exercise their right to vote on a federal level. To top it off, the election is riddled with complications from COVID-19. Are young voters ready to support their views and make their vote count? A 2020 Gallup poll of 2,000 Americans aged 18-29 shows a strong interest in politics and local issues, but also a lack of knowledge on voting information. Politically, the poll shows, youth voters are aware and willing to vote for issues that promote direct change. But, when it comes to navigating this strange year, they aren’t fully informed on how to make their vote count. Out of the respondents, 70% percent said they were made more aware of the impact of political decisions on their day-to-day life because of COVID-19. And many young people have been at the forefront of the virus, both in good and bad ways. Back in the spring, many college students missed out on a muchneeded stimulus check. As the probability of another check coming gets smaller and smaller, many young adults are

feeling the financial burden. Additionally, much of the “essential workforce” is made up of young adults working minimum wage jobs in food establishments and grocery stores. While much of the damage of COVID-19 has already been done, the result of this election can determine if things will get better or much worse. In fact, that seems to be the theme of the 2020 race. On a huge variety of factors, it all boils down to voting for something slightly better or something much, much worse. From the Gallup poll, young voters are most interested

in issues of racial justice, healthcare and climate change. All of these issues are on a tipping point, and this election has the possibility of being an intensive climax for change in either direction, both federally and locally. As wildfires burn on the West Coast and carbon emissions continue to grow, voters are not voting for the next four years, they are voting for the future of their children and grandchildren. The same applies to healthcare and racial justice. It’s not a matter of voting for the next few years, but rather setting the foundation for generations of change.

So young Americans are ready for change and ready to vote their beliefs, but do they know how? As mail-in voting becomes the preferred method of this COVID-19 election, the Gallup poll shows only 24% of voters aged 18-29 have ever voted by mail. A majority of them, 53%, have only voted on Election Day. When it comes to registering to vote, many have no idea if they can register online. When you break those numbers down, that means about 15 million voters don’t know how to get vote-by-mail ballots, and that’s only among young voters. As we race toward an election that will be unlike any other, it’s important for all voters, but especially young ones, to know how and when to vote safely. In 2018, young voters turned out in higher numbers than ever before. 2020 could easily create just as much, if not more, voter turnout. The information is out there and available. In fact, a majority of those surveyed reported seeing information on how to register or vote by mail. To young voters, get registered, get your ballot, and go vote. Now more than ever, the future truly depends on the result.

Editorial Cartoon by Flynn Geraghty | Vidette Art Director

EDITORIAL POLICY Editorial written by ELIZABETH SEILS, 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.

RIP to RBG, you’ll be missed MY VIEW GRACE KINNICUTT | News Editor

ell, 2020 just continues to let me down. Ruth Bader Ginsburg dying was not something I was expecting to happen in 2020 but then again, did we really expect a year like this? Ginsburg, deemed as a trailblazer and feminist icon, was a force to be reckoned with. Even in her final years dealing with health problems, Ginsburg was still doing everything she could on the Supreme Court to continue the fight for justice. I remember the first time I ever heard about Ginsburg. It was early in my high school years and when I started to really pay attention and get into politics more. I

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remember one of my teachers talking about her, so I looked her up when I got home and started reading about her work and the type of person she was. I was amazed at everything she did to get to where she was in politics and continued to do throughout her career. The thing that gets me most about Ginsburg’s death is how she basically worked up to her dying day. She never seemed to stop other than for the days she needed to, and even from her house or hospital bed during her health battles she was still fighting for justice. Nothing really seemed to ever stop that woman throughout her life. But how sad is it that someone like Ginsburg seemed to be one of our last hopes with the current administration? One person seemed to carry the fight on her shoulders throughout Donald Trump’s presidency to ensure millions of people still got the equality they have continuously been fighting for. Ginsburg’s death gives Trump a third opportunity to fill a Supreme Court seat during his term. If the GOP were to get a judge

nominated and approved, six out of the nine judges would be Republican and that, for me, is not an ideal Supreme Court. I know there are going to be times in history that the court is going to have judges who lean more one way than the other, but one of the seats should have been former President Barack Obama’s nominee Merrick Garland, but the Republican-led Senate refused to vote on Obama’s nominee, citing proximity to the 2016 election. I hate that even in the wake of Ginsburg’s death, the GOP will more than likely rush a nomination within the next 47 days before Nov. 3. In 2016, Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell said the vacant seat should not be filled until the next presidential term since the American people deserve a say in the SCOTUS selection. Well, here we are four years later right before an election, with a vacant seat again and the GOP pledging mere hours after the announcement of Ginsburg’s death to vote on any Trump nominee. I hope for the sake of our nation and for one of Ginsburg’s dying

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wishes, that the seat is not filled until after the election. I’m sad with the unexpected passing of Ginsburg. She was one of the first women in politics I looked up to. For me, there was no one quite like her in the political world. Especially in a career that is dominated by white males. Like millions of others, I’m sad and scared for what comes next. There’s a lot up in the air this election season and now with the passing of Ginsburg, it really throws another twist in this unexpected year. Ginsburg never seemed to quit even when she was battling pancreatic cancer and other health complications. I hope she knows how many people are grateful they had someone like her on SCOTUS fighting for equality and basic human rights. She was a force to be reckoned with. Rest easy Ginsburg, millions will dearly miss you. GRACE KINNICUTT is a News Editor for the Vidette. She can be reached at gkinnic@ilstu. edu. Follow her on Twitter at @GKinnicutt.

THEY SAID IT

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hours each week spent in online class, according to Chestnut Health Systems. Daily, students spend seven to 10 hours on schoolwork on the computer. CHS said that much screen interaction can lead to strained eyes and put stress on the body and mind. SEE FEATURES, PAGE 6

24,000

mail-in ballots expected, according to McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael. There are 61,000 registered voters in the county. In previous years, many voters have opted to vote early. SEE NEWS, PAGE 3

“

The most healthy thing for those student-athletes, in all aspects of life; mental health, physical health, impact on their future, is to find a way to play a season. I think it’s the best thing for them.” Dan Muller, ISU men’s basketball head coach

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5

Dog days begin again for Pawfficer Sage KELLIE FOY News Editor | @kellie_foy

Entering her second year as Illinois State University’s favorite ‘pawfficer’ from ISU’s police department, Pawfficer Sage and the Community Engagement unit is taking advantage of connecting with students, faculty, staff and community members as much as they can amid the pandemic. Despite the spring semester being cut short and students being sent home due to the coronavirus, Sage’s first year as ISUPD’s new recruit was successful for her and the department. She attended over 100 events and bonded with about 9,000 students, faculty, staff and community members since joining the team last fall. Additionally, ISUPD officers have handed out over 5,000 Sage badge stickers at these events. However, bonding with the ISU community has been harder for the pawfficer with the virus and health guidelines in place.

Kellie Foy | News Editor | @kellie_foy

Pawifficer Sage relaxes on the floor in the Illinois State University Police Department office. “When she was brand new, our unit was brand new. We just had request after request after request [and] we have had some [this year],” Sergeant of the Community

Engagement unit Mike Gardner said. “Because of COVID, frankly, a lot of the [residential assistants] and people that will call us, they’re unsure about what they can do

within the university’s safety guidelines regarding COVID-19.” After students were sent home and the department reduced the number of staff members coming into its location in the Nelson Smith building, Sage was able to stay with the deputy chief for some time. “The deputy chief has two dogs. She would also go home with one of our detectors or even meet here with his dog who is also a black lab. They really love each other, so she’s had a few playdates [as well],” Gardner said. Since Sage has come back to the Nelson Smith building from her stay with the deputy chief, Gardner explained the steps and guidelines put into place when the Community Engagement unit and Sage attend events and socialize with members of the community. He put emphasis on how the unit wants to avoid using Sage as a transmission device. “We also have a request from her vet that when we go to these events now before somebody pets her, they sanitize their hands before they pet

her. [This] way, we don’t use her as a transmission device,” Gardner said. Initially being trained as a service dog through Supporting Independence through Teamwork Service Dogs, Sage made the transition to her job with ISUPD after trainers thought she was too social. ISUPD Chief of Police Aaron Woodruff said that she’s continuing to live up to her mission of helping officers with educational programs and students adapt to campus and offering comfort and support to crime victims and students at various on-campus programs. “If there’s some housing events, things where the group sizes [are small and] smaller group events is what it will come down to,” Woodruff said. “I know [in previous weeks, we have] had some impromptu meetings with students just out on the Quad, so those things can still happen. They may not be formal events, but you know you still have interaction, some positive interactions and in other venues.”

ISU students disappointed with TikTok ban YASMIN ODEH News Reporter | @yasminodeh3

TikTok officially made its departure from the United States on Sunday. The reasoning for its ban, according to President Donald Trump, has to do with its untrusted owner: China. A company named ByteDance, affiliated in Beijing, owns and operates TikTok. Trump believes the application threatens the safety of the U.S. in terms of the government and public privacy, claiming the app could be used as a “spying tool.” However, an allowance was given to companies interested in buying it before time ran out. If no credible American company takes TikTok over, the ban will take effect. For the past month and a half, various companies including Microsoft, Walmart and Oracle have expressed interest in it. Yet, it is still uncertain whether it will be bought due to a lack of approval from Trump or Beijing as of now for its ability to continue operating in the U.S. In addition, Nov. 12 is a new date set by the

U.S. Commerce Department for the internet trafficking of any TikTok material to be deemed illegal. With over 100 million users, the impact of the app’s ban stretches across the globe. Students at Illinois State University expressed their disappointment and that the ban eliminates a form of communication among users and their followers. Anushree Rayarikar, a junior English education major, discsusses the power of the president being used to interfere with the accessibility of young people. “I feel that the ban is a form of censorship, and I don’t think the U.S. president should be allowed the liberty of banning an app for his own political motivations in conflict with China. I do think he is allowed to negotiate with the creators of the app, but not ban it.” Rayarikar goes on to say that “Many U.S. youths use TikTok as a form of entertainment, social connection and even education about lifestyle, and though it does have its downsides I think we should have the choice

of using or not using the app.” Julia Alonso, a junior international business major, agrees that the ban eliminates the benefits the application has served people and her personally. “I really like having the ‘for you’ page since it often shows me videos that I can relate with. I’ve received plenty of positive things back from [it]. It has Getty Images given me self-motivation and TikTok is an app that has risen in popularity. It took over positive affirmations. I wouldn’t the app Musical.ly in 2018. like it to be banned.” where to find elsewhere social media wise.” Callie Gorney, a senior SpanThe app has evidently had positive impacts ish and international business major, also on many students, from offering advice to spoke of the losses that will be experienced providing useful information. Many users amid the ban. have utilized it to their advantage and will “Honestly, I am sad because, although now be lacking this resource. there are some negative things that come The ban will continue to have various with TikTok, I love what I have learned from impacts on students and users. While the app it. I don’t watch those dances or the trendy is disappearing from the U.S. app stores, the videos, but I learn tips and tricks like resume app will remain working for those who have it building and Amazon finds and other things but can’t get updates. that I find useful in my life that I’m not sure

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Features

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

Reaching out during Suicide Prevention Month CHELSEA CORA News Reporter | @cora_chelsea

Running on low battery Photo Illustration by Michelle Guerrier | Staff Photographer | @michellayy4

Students like junior special education major Madeline Corfiliano are having to quickly adapt to the world around them due to COVID-19.

Online classes add strain on students YASMIN ODEH News Reporter | @yasminodeh3

o o k i n g at the atmosphere of mental health, issues among adolescents are only rising. The probability of young people experiencing some form of mental health disturbance is much higher than it has ever been. This is especially true in the Bloomington-Normal area. Across the Illinois State University campus, rates for anxiety, depression and resulting thoughts of suicide are increasing. Chestnut Health Systems, a non-profit behavioral assistance organization, addressed this and provided that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted a drastic increase the past 10 years. In addition, Chestnut Health Systems has noted the association of mental health with the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of regular schoolwork and engagement, the pandemic is causing further struggles among students. Interactions are solely happening virtually through Zoom calls and

emails rather than face to face, putting a mental strain on students. Being unable to behave and work in a typical class setting is adding on to already existing stress caused by academics. The uncertainty of the spring semester and wondering if online classes will continue has left students looking ahead in fear. Chestnut Health Systems stated students work online for school between seven and 10 hours each day. Continuous screen time puts a strain on the eyes, body and the mind. Katie Norteman, Illinois State senior and criminal justice major, comments on COVID-19’s impact on her mental health. “COVID-19 has challenged my efforts to work on my mental health. I’m used to a routine and because of social distancing, my classes are no longer in person and I don’t have a regular routine, which makes it harder to set aside time for school. Seeing people who aren’t following the rules is upsetting for people who do because if people just listened, we could probably still have in-person classes right now.” Callie Gorney, a senior Spanish and interna-

tional business major, also notes her concerns with the pandemic and online classes. Yet, Gorney is using the online state of life to make time for her mental health. “I’ve been lucky enough to not have my mental health worsen, and I feel that happened because I have been doing more self-care than I did before quarantine. With classes being online due to COVID-19, I do find myself not being as motivated and procrastinating more than normal. I feel since I don’t have the schedule of going to class, I am struggling to feel that routine with online schooling.” Gorney offers a new insight on how quarantine can be used to better the self and mental states rather than allow it to be destructive. The time online classes leave for students can and should be used in this way in order to avoid the adverse effects of it. In light of these unfortunate truths, Student Counseling Services on campus is readily available for students in virtual form. It offers both individual and group counseling to students seeking either form of therapeutic help.

Puppetry class pulls strings from home JAKE DAHL Features Reporter | @jdahl3005

When one thinks of college courses, the mind usually wanders toward more technical classes revolving around data charts, writing essays and giving presentations, among other things. However, Illinois State University has added a particularly unique course among its vast array of classes: puppetry. “The puppetry arts have a rich history in America and around the world. The course was already part of the university curriculum before my arrival in 2004,” Michael Vetere, the professor for the course, said. “It was a course that was ready to be deleted, as the university didn’t have a faculty member knowledgeable about the art form. With my background in puppetry, I was more than ready to share the course with the ISU community.” The course is listed as “THE 183,” and it is open to all majors on the ISU campus. The class is described on Illinois State’s Course Finder as “[giving] students an understanding of the theoretical and practical implementation of the art of puppetry.” Textbooks are not needed for the class; the only fee students are expected to pay is the bag of materials needed for their puppets. “Students were divided into two groups. One group meets online synchronously with me for building and construction workshops, while the other group meets asynchronously discovering the wide world of puppetry,” Vetere said.

Photo courtesy of Michael Vetere

Classes within Illinois State University’s School of Theatre and Dance are learning remotely, includ“Students will each make a rod puppet, and hand (Muppet-type) puppet, and develop their own object puppet performance.” Given the current status of the United States in regard to COVID-19, it makes sense that the class would have to be taught online for the safety of the students. However, it stands to reason that teaching a class that requires very hands-on learning over a Zoom call would be difficult and

might even turn off students from the course. “I think we are using the online format in the best way we can. Since it is puppetry, it is difficult to not be in person, but in some ways, I find it beneficial,” Zenon Zamora, a student currently enrolled in the course, said. “I loved learning about new forms of puppetry and when we made our rod puppets, I enjoyed the smaller groups to make it more personal.”

As many may know, September is Suicide Prevention Month. Students need to be aware of the symptoms and how to detect when someone may be feeling like harming themselves. A lot has been going on recently with COVID-19. Being quarantined has resulted in frustration, anger and loneliness. Many people have had mixed emotions since COVID-19 began. “Early data is mixed about the impact of COVID on student mental health,” Director of Student Counseling Services Sandy Colbs said. “Some data shows increase in anxiety and depression since the quarantine in March, while other data shows only minor changes in functioning related to family relationships and financial concerns. I honestly think it’s too soon to know for sure what the impact has been.” Suicide prevention focuses on many things. It focuses on the problem itself, but also on how to help with the problem or prevent it from happening. People need to be aware of what is going on around them. “This year we are trying to use our social media platforms to raise awareness regarding how we can all help one another. Last week we had our Redbirds Kognito Day,” suicide prevention coordinator Glorivette Albino said. Redbirds Kognito Day is an effort to promote suicide prevention and the program that was created. This program is supposed teach students how to recognize, support and help those in need of someone to help them through depression or anxiety. They are given places to connect to on and off campus for help through the process. The Kognito program invited students to complete a virtual training using the platform, which places them in a real-life situation with avatars. This platform guides students and teaches them how to be of help in an extreme situation. “Kognito has been used at ISU in the past and this year we came on board with them again at the same time COVID hit,” Albino said. Some students who utilized the platform have shared that the training was very informative and helpful. Kognito will continue to be a program that Illinois State University offers to students, faculty and staff. Another program that is being promoted is the Question, Persuade and Refer Program. The program used to be offered in person and has recently transitioned to an online format. QPR are the three simple steps that are taught to help save a life from suicide. QPR training teaches people how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, how to offer hope and how to refer someone for help. uEXPANDED STORY @ Videtteonline.com

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 7

Rebounding from a lost season

Boyd, Redbird men’s basketball bounce back from disappointing 2019-20 season MIKEY FORNELLI Sports Reporter | @mfojr

or a lot of Illinois State University’s winter and spring sports, spring 2020 remains a season of what-ifs, forever labeled as what could have been. Yet ISU men’s basketball faced an arguably bigger regret: finishing just 10-21 on the season, and then getting sent home for months without any formal team training due to COVID-19. “Past experiences are always going to motivate you, one way or another,” head coach Dan Muller said, who was with the Redbirds as both a player and now coach. “We had a terrible record last year, and there was nobody more disappointed than I was.” Dedric Boyd, a redshirt junior guard who transferred to ISU from Eastern Kentucky prior to the 2018-19 season, is now one of the older members of an ISU basketball team who is ready to remember their shortcomings and use them to move forward. “The only positive is it’s a learning experience,” Boyd said. “Failing to succeed last year really woke me up.” The Redbirds went 5-13 in conference and finished the year with a loss to Drake in the first round of the Missouri Valley Conference tournament on Mar. 5. A week later, they were sent home for the semester along with the rest of ISU’s student body. Training from home looked different for everybody. Boyd, a Brownsville, Tennessee, native, found time in the gym whenever he could while working. “At home, I worked at the Boys and Girls Club.” Boyd said. “I was in the gym there 12 hours, every day.” His other returning teammates, many of whom are from Illinois, have had different experiences depending on where they were and what restrictions might have affected them.

for this young team. “I want the young guys to succeed,” Boyd said, “I’m going to bust my butt at practice and be vocal, because I know what that feels like to lose. I don’t want the young guys to go through that same feeling.” Just last week, it was announced that the 2020-21 season will start officially on Nov. 25. Teams can start formally practicing together Oct. 14, for the first time in months. Set schedules and more details will be out soon, but Boyd and his teamVidette Archive mates are just ready to Dedric Boyd (No. 1) attempts a jump shot as a Bradley defender tries to block him at focus on their upcoming season and do whatever Carver Arena in Peoria. they can to bounce back. “I always tell the guys they don’t team,” Muller said. “An expectation I have is to build have to stay in shape in the offsea“I know the returners are motistrong chemistry with my teamson — but don’t get out of shape. Just vated by last year and understand mates. Of course, I want to be try to stay physically healthy,” Muller how much harder they have to work. winning, but also learning. Adversity said. Those guys will educate the new happens, on and off the court, but I “As soon as the guys could get in guys.” want to grow as a person,” Boyd said. the gym, here or at home, they did. Boyd, being one of those returners, “Even if you return every player, Part of it is because they love the game is ready to take his place as a leader every year is a new team with brand of basketball, but also part of it is new chemistry,” Muller added. “The because they couldn’t for months. biggest enemy of that right now is we Just going to the gym is a lot better can’t be together as much as we norfor them than sitting at home every mally can. It’s going to be a slower day.” process with building chemistry, but While returning players do have it’s critically important.” motivation to be back going full Whether it is a chip on the shoulspeed this year due to the failure of der from last year or being without last, the new season also brings a the team for months, the Redbirds team that is almost halfway full of will have no shortness of motivation new guys, an exciting challenge for heading into their new season, lookMuller and his returning players. ing more than ever for a year that “Not being able to work out or makes everyone proud. be in the weight room with them “I love this team; I love this coachdramatically impacts their undering staff. We’re going to leave it all Illinois State Athletics standing of how hard you have to on the court. Blood sweat and tears,” Dedric Boyd driving down the lane in work to be on a Division I basketball Boyd said. practice this summer.

Aiming for a better average DeJong and Rocks team up to fight COVID-19 JAKE SERMERSHEIM Sports Editor | @JakeSermershiem

ou may see him in the background in cardboard cutout form behind home plate at Busch Stadium, but do you know why chemist Lawrence Rocks is featured? Rocks’ cutout is just one of many taking the seats of real fans this season. But Rocks is not just a normal fan. The St. Louis Cardinals honored Rocks with this cutout for the work he is doing with starting shortstop and former Illinois State University baseball alumnus Paul DeJong and DeJong’s agent Burton Rocks for the Ronald McDonald House and for advocating for healthcare workers. “We are trying to promote interest in it by wearing the mask, doing interviews and donating,” Rocks said. “My son, Paul (DeJong) and I are all raising public awareness to let people know what Ronald McDonald House is really about: Keeping sick kids and their parents close.” Supporting the Ronald McDonald House hits close to home to the 87-year-old retired chemist and his family. “When my son was very young, he was very ill for asthma,” Rocks said. “We brought him to a hospital, and they did not want us to stay. That made us realize that parents

Courtesy of Burton Rocks

A cutout of Lawrence Rocks in a seat at a vacant Busch Stadium during the 2020 MLB season.

can help. That is right around when Ronald McDonald’s house was starting. The idea of it is that it is a charity that parents can stay with their kids while at the hospital. It has always been close to my heart to keep sick kids around their parents. I was proud to wear a mask with the Ronald McDonald logo.” DeJong and Rocks recently were featured for their work advocating for health care workers on MSNBC. DeJong and Rocks have teamed up multiple times in the laboratory and at charitable events. “Dr. Rocks is a great chemist and lab partner,” DeJong said. “We always have deep conversations about the nature of our world. I respect

his opinions on the carbon activated masks, he has many great ideas.” Rocks’ newest idea he and DeJong were promoting was for a new, more effective mask to block the spread of COVID-19. “I started with the mask. The masks we have now do not absorb all viruses,” Rocks said. “It depends on the tightness of the mask and the weave. But the one chemical that will stop viruses is activated carbon.” Rocks’ design is very similar to a normal mask but comes with a small pouch that a small carbon filter can be inserted into. According to Rocks, this filter can absorb nearly 100 percent of viruses. Rocks’ mask would require people to change the filter regularly. “My idea was to give everyone a little bag, a mask and extra carbon filters,” Rocks said. “My estimated cost of activated carbon filter would be about 50 cents. That would cut down on social distancing, closing any public places. It wouldn’t obviate

the need for social distancing, but it would cut down significantly. With a carbon mask, the virus would have no place to go it would be eliminated.” But Rocks’ idea hit a wall when he presented a blueprint of his mask to the state of New York as well as private firms but has been unable to gain any traction. “I have spoken to some private people, but nothing ever happens, the way it goes is they take a bigmoney idea,” Rocks said. “There is no big money in these masks. You should not tell people to make their own masks though so you should hand these masks out. The masks we have now don’t stop anything, they’re cloth. Plus, people don’t wear them properly, so it is not much protection.” Despite his idea not getting off the ground, Rocks is still confident in his design. uEXPANDED STORY @ Videtteonline.com

CLASSIFIEDS

Coach Spack reacts to recent football transfers RACHEL HICKEY Senior Sports Reporter | @r_hickey15

In football, roster depth is vital to a team’s success. With higher injury rates than other sports, depth becomes crucial to be able to fill each position while continuing to play at a high level. Lately, Illinois State University football has taken a few hits to its depth. Junior linebacker Zeke Vandenburgh, senior defensive end Romeo McKnight and senior cornerback Devin Taylor have announced their intent to transfer this fall, all citing the desire to play fall football as the reason. McKnight is set to play for University of North Carolina-Charlotte, while Taylor will play in the Atlantic Coast Conference at Virginia Tech this fall. Vandenburgh has yet to announce a commitment. ISU head football coach Brock Spack acknowledged that COVID19 restrictions for the fall season played a large role in the team’s Brock Spack losses, stating that there “was really nothing [he] could do about it.” “Obviously, I am disappointed; how could I not be? We were set to have a really good team, and we still do have a good team,” Spack said. “But I understand why they made their choices; they want the opportunity to play and potentially get drafted into the NFL. I support their decisions, and I wish them all the best.” While ISU’s roster has seen losses, Spack is still confident the team can have a solid spring season. However, depth continues to be his primary concern. “The losses hurt the roster depth for sure. Concussions and other injuries just happen so often in football that you need a lot of guys in each position to play a whole season. Our defense has taken a hit in that regard for sure,” Spack said. Despite his concerns, Spack remains hopeful for the spring season, which is currently scheduled to start in February. With the fall now being the “offseason,” the coaching staff has ample time to train and develop the remaining young talent on the roster. Additionally, Spack asserted that the Redbirds have already compiled nearly 20 commitments for next year’s freshman class. The NCAA recruiting dead period — now extended through Jan. 1 — has had a significant impact on the Redbirds’ ability to have recruits experience ISU. “You know, we’ve had to be very creative in recruiting. We are basically trying to get people to come here when they’ve never been to campus, seen the facilities or met the players,” Spack said. “It’s been challenging for sure, but we got ahead of the game in the spring and managed to score some very talents commits. “I still have a lot of hope for this team and their future. We’ve had some bumps in the road lately, but we must re-gear ourselves for the spring. I will greatly miss our players who transferred, but I am excited about the talent we have left.”

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Sports

PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

Back and better than ever Football begins practicing in preparation for winter season Davis said. “We’ve had some chance to throw the ball around. We have JAKE SERMERSHEIM never had a chance to start this Sports Editor | @JakeSermersheim strong in spring ball which is what this is. I think we will be able to hit ne day on the field, one day the ground running tomorrow.” off of it — the Illinois State Despite a gruesome leg injury from University football team has last season, Davis has one objective on experienced a lot of that early in the his mind when he steps on the field. 2020-2021 season. “Personally, I am just trying to get ISU head coach Brock Spack estibetter,” Davis said. “I put my injury mates that the Redbirds have been behind me. I haven’t gotten many live forced off the field four times this offsteps. Just being able to get my feet season. The most recent reason was under me and sharpening my skill due to a high number of coronavirus sets. Just take every rep like it is a cases among ISU student-athletes. game and try to get better.” But after nearly a month of waitAfter a short month of practices ing, Illinois State football will begin wrap up, FCS teams will have to wait practicing Tuesday until Oct. 24. until Feb. 20 in the NCAA’s latest After canceling practices due to plan of return. Once games have a high number of COVID-19 cases, begun, teams will play an eight-week the Redbirds will be back on the season over a nine-week span. Playfield every Tuesday, Thursday and offs will be reduced to 16 teams from Saturday until Oct. 24. According 24 and will wrap up May 15. to Spack, padded practice will start “It’s definitely unique. You can’t Saturday. help but think about all the obstacles While some conferences are on Courtesy of Illinois State Athletics it is going to create for players like the field, senior ISU quarterback Brady Davis waiting for the snap during a practice this summer. Davis and the rest of the Redbirds return to pracme and younger players,” Davis said. Brady Davis is just happy to have the tice on Tuesday for the first time in nearly a month. “This is too good of a conference for chance to practice. us not to battle it out this year. It is just flipping calendar seasons. We’ll just our offense with some scrimmages mixed in “It will be fun. I would be lying exciting to play in this conference and try to if I told you I wasn’t frustrated every Satur- install a lot of things and get dialed in with probably. Coach might make it more competiwin it and move on to the playoffs. With everyday, especially as more and more conferences our personnel. I’m sure coach Spack will do it tive this year with no games to play.” thing going on it is hard to make something While formal practices have been shut come back,” Davis said. “Coaches need it, just like normal spring practices,” Davis said. happen. It is going to be unique to see how it “This will be a lot of good on good as they down, Davis and some of his teammates have players need it. I don’t think anything will goes and afterwards as well.” happen in the fall with the FCS, but I am just call it,” Davis said. “Ones-on-ones, twos-on- been doing what they can to stay in shape. The Redbirds are expected to face off against twos, stuff like that. We’ll get after it installing “We have been lifting weights and running,” happy to be out there practicing.” Northern Iowa to open the season. Normally this time of the year Davis and the Redbirds would be I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t frustrated every Saturday, especially as more and JAKE SERMERSHEIM is a Sports running practices emulating oppoEditor for The Vidette. He can be more conferences come back. Coaches need it, players need it. I don’t think anything nents plays for the upcoming week. contacted at vidette_jrserme@ilstu. Instead, practices will focus on will happen this fall with the FCS, but I am just happy to be practicing. edu. Follow Sermersheim on Twitter installing playbook and repetition. at @JakeSermersheim. Brady Davis, senior starting quarterback “It looks just like a spring practice,

Redbirds reflect on basketball’s return JAKE FOGAL Sports Editor | @jfogal5

were going to have a season, but now that it’s official, it makes everything more exciting. It’s time to continue working.” Head women’s basketball coach Kristen Giloon, the sound of basketballs dribbling, nets swishing and pep bands playing are lespie echoed Muller’s appreciation of having posed to return to Redbird Arena and the date finalized. “We are thankful to receive clarity about an other basketball courts throughout the country. The Division I Council set Nov. 25 as the start official start date and are excited and optimistic about the upcoming season. We appreciate the date to the college basketball season. As both the men’s and women’s basketball time, dedication and effort that was put in for teams are returning in late November, this this to be possible and look forward to getting will provide the first action of any Illinois State back to competition while continuing to keep University sports club since Mar. 11, where ISU the health and safety of our student-athletes our top priority.” baseball lost to No. 15 Florida State. Having their season halted before their Men’s basketball head coach Dan Muller showed relief that the date has finally been set first-round game of the MVC tournament in Rockford, the women’s basketball team looks after many weeks of uncertainty. “I am just happy that we have a set date. Our to continue its work from an unfinished 2019players have been in limbo for so long, saying, 2020 season. Having the uncertainty of her senior season ‘When are we going to start practice coach?’ and now we can finally lay out the next six to eight cleared up, guard Paige Saylor is ready to get weeks, which is good because people want to back on the court with her teammates come Nov. 25. know. People want consistency.” “It’s an amazing feeling to finally As Muller alluded to, team practices know when our season will start. I’m also received a set date for Oct. 14, which so excited and grateful to get back to sits six weeks before the non-conference playing games and competing with start date. my teammates.” Non-conference schedules are rumored These times are unprecedented to be released sometime on Tuesday, but to everyone, but Muller never had a Muller didn’t seem confident in any route doubt that a 2020-2021 basketball the team would take. Paige Saylor season would be established. “I have no idea what our schedule’s “With safety being the most imporgoing to look like. I don’t know if we’ll play in a tournament, or what games we’re tant thing, I was always confident we were going going to play. I just think we’re going to have to find a way to have a season and play some a lot of moving parts here in the next couple basketball. It’s nice to know the dates now, so Vidette Archive weeks, across the country, for what schedules we can have those targets,” Muller said. “The most healthy thing for those studentare going to look like.” Keith Fisher III signaling to teammates during the Senior forward Keith Fisher III couldn’t hide athletes, in all aspects of life; mental health, Missouri Valley Conference Tournament Arch Madness last season. The NCAA announced last week his joy in reaction to the announcement, as physical health, impact on their future, is to that basketball games would begin on Nov. 25. Fisher having a particular date marked positions him find a way to play a season. I think it’s the best will be entering his redshirt senior season and his thing for them.” and his teammates to prepare for the season. second season as a Redbird. Fisher was named team The Nov. 25 start date is subject to change if “It’s exciting. It makes everything real. That’s captain for the 2020-2021 season. concerns arise due to the COVID-19 pandemic the best part about it,” Fisher III said. “We’re really working towards something, revolving around the impending season. The instead of just working out with nothing for NCAA Division I Council is expected to meet sure at the end. Before we weren’t sure if we again in mid-October, where it will address the start date once again.

REDBIRD RE PORT Robinson records first career touchdown

Illinois State University alumnus and Jacksonville Jaguars undrafted rookie running back James Robinson continues to make waves. With just over seven minutes in the third quarter, Robinson split the tackles and raced 17 yards for his first NFL touchdown against the Tennessee Titans. After racking over 80 all-purpose yards against the Indianapolis Colts, Robinson totaled 164 yards against the Titans on just 16 rushes. Former Redbird and fellow Jaguar James O’Shaughnessy racked up 40 yards on four catches. Despite Robinson’s strong game, the Jaguars fell to the Titans 33-30. The Jaguars play at 7 p.m. Thursday against state rival Miami Dolphins.

164

rushing yards by James Robinson are the most for a Jacksonville Jaguars running back through two games.

UPCOMING

Football

Illinois State University will practice Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays until Oct. 24.

Basketball

The NCAA announced last week that basketball would return Nov. 25.