INSIDE: Redbirds win ‘War on 74’:
THE ’BIRD Cubs trophy tours town THE VIDETTE PRESENTS
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017 Vol. 129 / No. 33
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World Series Trophy Tour stops at Redbird Arena BETH GEISTLINGER Sports Editor | @beth_geist
T
he Chic ago Cubs World Series Trophy Tour made a stop in Bloomington-Normal Wednesday, allowing community members, students from Illinois Wesleyan and Illinois State to get a glimpse of the Commissioner’s Trophy that was 108 years in the making. Some fans have been continually checking the Trophy Tour webpage since the win to see if it would make its way down I-55.
“I’ve low-key been totally stalking the trophy,” graduate student Katy Biddle said. “The Trophy Tour page is my homepage and I check for updates all the time to see when it’s coming to Bloomington-Normal.” People braved the cold and stood outside Redbird Arena starting at 8:30 a.m. Salvador Velasco, a resident of Chicago, travelled approximately three hours Tuesday night to be second in line to take a picture with the trophy. Velasco and his friend lined up just before 9 a.m. “Five, six hours outside? Not bad at all,” Velasco said. “(Thinking
about the World Series win) still brings tears to my eyes. Definitely worth the wait.” At noon, the public was welcomed into the warmth of Redbird Arena to sit and wait for the presentation of the trophy at 2 p.m. “Given that we didn’t have any activities at (Redbird Arena) today, it really helped,” Director of Athletics Larry Lyons said. “It was a good day for us so we could bring people inside and actually sit them down so they didn’t have to stand through the whole thing.” In the 90 minutes the trophy was on display, around 1,500 people
ABOVE: Senior public relations major Kiana Kotke poses with the Commissioner’s Trophy in Redbird Arena.
Photograph by KELLY MCNAMARA | Vidette Photo Editor
went through and none of the original patrons had to be turned away. “I think (today) has gone pretty smoothly,” Lyons said. “People have been very calm and appreciative of this service. You can see the smiles on their faces when they walk out of the other side. It’s been a pretty good experience.” Local Cubs fans reveled at the chance to see the trophy that many generations of Cubs fans had only dreamed of seeing. see TROPHY page 7
Trophy photo gallery at videtteonline.com
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
Remembering Ben Allison
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Nearly two years after his death, WZND worker’s legacy will be ‘right next to the place that brought him the most joy’
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
During Friday’s Illinois State University Board of Trustees’ meeting, members approved the naming of a bench in honor of former ISU student, Benjamin Allison. Allison, a Communication major and assistant director of WZND radio, passed away in January 2015 from injuries he received in a fatal hit-andrun incident. Allison’s parents, Melissa and Tim Allison, were present during the board’s meeting to approve the resolution of the bench. “The kind words from President Dietz and Chairman Donahue had me in tears. We were blown away by the fact that not only was the passing of the resolution unanimous, but every member of the board seconded the motion,” Melissa Allison said. Benjamin “After the meeting, there were Allison so many people who came up to talk to my husband and me, and they all wanted to thank us for allowing the university to have a memorial bench for Ben,” she said. The idea of the bench came from Deb Lesser, director emeritus for WZND, and her staff, or as Melissa Allison called them, Benjamin’s ISU family. “Deb was Ben’s boss, friend, adviser and basically his ISU mom during the time he was working at the radio station. Deb is my hero,” Melissa Allison said. “She has worked tirelessly over the last year and a half to make the bench a reality.” After Allison’s death, WZND also led an organ donor awareness campaign in his honor. “Deb and the WZND crew have done everything in their power to help keep Ben’s memory alive at ISU. They put together a service of remembrance for him that was held at the Bone Student Center the week after his funeral,” Melissa Allison said. “They have been there for us with their love and
Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photographer
The Benjamin Allison memorial bench will be a part of the new Redbird Plaza behind Fell Hall. It is currently under construction. support through everything we’ve gone through after losing Ben even though we know they have been grieving too.” At the ser v ice of remembrance WZ ND nominated Benjamin A llison for the R itamae Carroll Memor ia l First Year Involvement Award and put together a tr ibute broadcast for him. They also dedicated one of their broadcast booths to him. With the two-year anniversary of Benjamin Allison’s death approaching, it is an especially difficult time for his friends and family. The bench will serve as a memorial and will hopefully bring a smile to the face of everyone who who knew him as they reminisce on their fond memories together. Benjamin was and will always remain a very valuable member of the ISU community to students, staff and everyone who had the chance of meeting him, as Chief of Staff Jay Groves explained. “[The bench] will be a reminder of what a quality young man he was, what an engaged student
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he was with WZND and with the rest of the university,” Groves said. “I think it will be a good place for folks who knew him to ref lect and remember.” The bench will be placed in the new Redbird Plaza behind Fell Hall, where Benjamin Allison spent most of his time at WZND. “The fact that it will be right behind Fell Hall is so very fitting,” Melissa Allison said. “Ben loved everything about working at the radio station and the bench will be right next to the place that brought him the most joy.” Melissa and Tim Allison said they are grateful to everyone who helped create the permanent memorial of his life at the university. Benjamin Allison’s name will be displayed on the bench for all to remember and recognize the impact he had on campus. Katelyn Provow is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at klprov1@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter @katelynprovow.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
Women’s March on Chicago looking to trump discrimination Following President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, people all around the state, country will join forces in response to ‘negative rhetoric’ KEVIN SCHWALLER Senior News Reporter | @kevschwa
Thousands of people will fill the streets of Chicago as part of the Women’s March on Chicago Saturday, one day after Presidentelect Donald Trump is sworn into office. The protest originated in Washington D.C. as a response to the “2016 presidential campaign cycle’s negative rhetoric and actions,” according to the event website. Chicago is now one site of more than 600 Women’s Marches planned for the day. Speakers and performers will address the crowd at 10 a.m. Those expected to attend include actresses from the Chicago production of “Hamilton,” representatives from Planned Parenthood and author Sara Paretsky. The march is expected to start at 11:30 a.m. on Jackson Boulevard and Lake Shore Drive in Chicago. Illinois State University junior elementary education major Haley Hatton said she is marching to fight for women’s rights and equality. “I have the privilege of being able to access internet and social media, transportation and the ability to participate in things like rallies and marches and so on,” Hatton said. “I recognize this and want to use my access to resources in order to fight, educate and advocate.” “I fight and march because of people like Trump: people who believe that they can speak to and about women as if we are not equals, as if we are objects,” Hatton added. Over 2,700 people said they were going to the march on the event’s Facebook page, with another 2,900 showing interest in attending. The event has also raised over $50,000.
Illustration by Nicholas Buegel | Vidette Art Director
ISU senior political science major Gus Stott said he believes protests are a good way for oppressed groups to speak out. “It’s important for groups that are marginalized to make themselves heard, and a march is a great way to get everyone involved and make the issues known by more of the public at large,” Stott explained. However, despite the protests against Trump, Stott believes protesters should ack nowledge ac c ompl ish ment s t he President-elect makes in the future. “Trump wasn’t my first choice, but I think it’s important to give credit where it’s due. If he gets into office and starts doing a great job, we should acknowledge the things he does well and continue to criticize him for the things he doesn’t do well,” Stott said. “As long as Trump remains a divisive figure, groups that feel threatened will continue to
speak out, and I think that’s a good thing. Problems don’t go away without talking about them.” Hatton said she believes in the importance of women standing together. “In a time like this I think it’s important ...because being told we are weaker, lesser, unintelligent, and belittled by society in no way means we actually are,” Hatton said. “Until we can walk down the street without the fear of being catcalled, or assaulted, or shamed for our sexuality, we have to stand together.” Hatton said she hopes the march will draw Trump’s attention. “I’m also excited to participate in something that will definitely get the President-elect’s attention. Maybe he’ll tweet about us and I’ll become a social media trend,” she said.
SGA discusses student night life, safety ANDREW DOUGHERTY News Reporter | @addough
On Wednesday, the Student Government Association at Illinois State University convened in the Bone Student Center for its first meeting of the Spring 2017 semester. The most contentious debate of the meeting was the amount of money that should be appropriated to supplying bagels and coffee to a potential Coffee with the Deans initiative. The debate lasted approximately 17 minutes and ended with a $500 cap on the event. Coffee with the Deans will bring together the deans of all the colleges at ISU in which new students will be able to meet and discuss their respective departments with them. The meeting began with ISU alum and Chamber of Commerce Manager John Walsh discussing ways the SGA and Normal Township Chamber of Commerce could work together to better improve the relationship between students and the town. “What is the chamber’s perspective on students at the university?” Senator Daniel Munoz asked. “Our attitude towards the students here at Illinois State University is one of pride,” Student Body President Kyle Walsh responded. “We want to retain the great talent that students at this university have and McLean
Tiffany Morrison | Vidette Photographer
(Left to right) Secretary of Diversity Aleisha Reado, Secretary of Governmental Relations Richard Greenfield, Student Body Vice President Zach Schaab and Student Body President Kyle Walsh voice their opinions during Wednesday’s SGA meeting. County is doing a lot of things to attract students.” Munoz stated his goal this year is to find a way to change city laws so that students who are 19 years or older can enter the sprawling bar scene at in Uptown Normal and in downtown Bloomington. Munoz believes that this will reduce the amount of drinking tickets and DUIs. “You would have to go through the local government but this group, your SGA, has a strong possibility if the number of drinking tickets and DUIs goes down,
they would also have to prove that there’s a valuable cause for this assembly,” Walsh said. Walsh also discussed ways in which students can lobby their local elected officials. “People believe in the students here and taking that into action is excellent,” he said. He explained some ideas he wants to focus the assembly’s attention on this semester. “Women’s-only hours at the Rec, textbook affordability and a successful Diversity Week within and outside of SGA are my top
priorities,” Walsh said. Walsh will be sending out an email Friday before Presidentelect Donald Trump’s inauguration, which he hopes will encourage positive student engagement and bring a sense of respect among students. The SGA president was appalled by the actions of some students after the Nov. 8 election and wanted to bring students together. SGA reported that the creation of a campus safety committee is in the works. This committee will comprise of four SGA Senators, four students who live both on and off campus, a member of the Normal Police Department and a faculty member. The purpose of the safety committee will be to ensure the safety of all students, both on and off campus. The committee would also discuss current problems in the area and educate students on personal safety. In addition, Emma Shores, a student in the School of Communication, was appointed to be the next secretary of programming. “I want to bring new ideas for social media and fetter different and closer relationships between all of the RSOs at ISU,” Shores said. Andrew Dougherty is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at addough@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @addough.
Researcher to analyze Trump’s inaugural address KEVIN SCHWALLER Senior News Reporter | @kevschwa
President-elect Donald Trump’s inaugural speech will be analyzed 7 p.m. Monday at Capen Auditorium, three days after his address. Director of the Program of American Studies at Vanderbilt University Vanessa Beasley will discuss her rhetorical analysis of Trump’s speech with ISU students, faculty and members of the community. Beasley, who has read every inaugural address, said she found interest in analyzing presidential rhetoric during President Reagan’s term. “Many people from many academic disciplines were noticing how his advisers and communications staffers would use visual imagery, verbal rhetoric and other rhetorical strategies to control the news cycle,” Beasley explained. “It made me wonder if that was really new or not; that is, didn’t previous presidents also try these things with whatever resources were available to them? What were their strategies?” “All of this made me interested, especially by the time I was a senior in college, about the historic relationship between the presidency, the mass media and rhetoric. So, I went to graduate school to study that relationship and find out what had changed: the technolog y or the presidency — or both,” she explained. Vanessa Beasley said it is Beasley hard to speculate what to expect from Trump’s speech. “Very little of what Trump did as a candidate was ‘by the book,’ following conventional or historical norms,” Beasley said. “Of all occasions for presidential rhetoric, the inaugural address is the one in which the new president is most expected to follow previous norms and practices, however, so that’s what I’ll be listening for.” Beasley also said that campaign rhetoric and governing rhetoric are two different things. “Candidates typically sound one way, and presidents sound another. Campaigning is dif ferent from governing, strategically and rhetorically,” she explained. The free event is presented by the ISU School of Communication Promotion and Development team and sponsored by the Harold K. Sage Foundation, Student Government Association and the Women and Gender Studies Program.
GasBuddy forecasts highest gas prices in three years CLAIRE WEINZIERL News Reporter | @ClaireWeinzierl
GasBuddy has predicted that gas prices will be the highest they have been in 3 years in 2017. Motorists are expected to spend $52 billion more at the pump this year, and the yearly average will be 36-cents higher, according to GasBuddy’s forecast. GasBuddy is a tech company based in Boston that operates apps and websites to help motorists in the United States, Australia and Canada find the cheapest gas in the area. Its recent predictions were released as part of GasBuddy’s 2017 Fuel Price Outlook. see GAS page 5
Viewpoint
PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
Saying goodbye to Obama’s eight years of progress
D
on k e y, elephant or any animal in between, we as Americans made a decision last year that will change the course of our nation. Tears were shed for loss, toasts were made for future success and 52 percent of the nation began its path towards healing while the other 48 percent counted down the days to January 20. Just one day away from President-elect Trump’s inauguration, the time has come to reflect on the past eight years with President Barack Obama in office. While the current college-aged population was in middle school for Obama’s first election, the policies he put in place since his inauguration have affected us greatly from the start of his presidency. Obama’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) not only allows for health care for some of our nation’s most poverty-ridden citizens, it also allows children to stay on their parent’s health care plan until they reach the age of 26. Considering the nation’s economic state, this policy came as a welcome change. Under the ACA, college graduates attempting to find jobs do not have to worry about their ability to afford health care during their
job search. The act allows for a buffer which provides comfort during the stressful post-graduate period. Arguably one of the most active first ladies, Michelle Obama worked tirelessly throughout this generation’s young adulthood to ensure we were fed balanced and healthy meals for school lunches. This was all thanks to the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act signed in 2010. It may have been upsetting for some students at the time to kiss
the school soda machine goodbye, but looking back, it made us consider smart choices toward a healthier lifestyle for all. The fact that the American people elected Barack Obama into office was very significant to many Americans, namely African-Americans. After decades of oppression, the black community had a leader in office who could relate to them directly. It allowed for public conversations about racial profiling, affirmative action and
equal rights for all. These conversations that had been pushed aside for so many years were thrown into the spotlight and the American people gained empowerment within the black community. While these conversations are still far from over, it allowed for a new voice to be heard. On June 26, 2015, America made a statement under the Obama administration: love is love. After much debate, the Supreme Court legalized same-
sex marriage making the U.S. the world’s 21st country to do so. Another fist pump for equal rights came in 2009 when the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was signed giving women the right to sue their employers if they are paid less than their male counterparts, even if it happened years ago. The major change here is the fact that the lawsuit can come long after the discrimination rather than the previous time limit of 180 days after the discrimination occurs. From all perspectives, these changes made in the Obama administration are some of his most noteworthy actions and have affected every citizen. Now that it is time to say a sad farewell to the Obama family, we must keep an open mind toward the future. A nation divided is not nation at all. While President-elect Trump deserves the same chance given to every president at the start of their term, that does not mean we should sit back and idly watch Trump turn back the progress the Obama administration has made during the past eight years. Chins up, stand strong and never stop fighting for what we believe in.
Editorial Cartoon by Ashley Brown | Vidette Editorial Cartoonist
Editorial written by MARY CULLEN, 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.
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Trump vs. Streep: Celebrities are people too MY VIEW KEVIN SCHWALLER | Columnist
O
ne of the first posts I saw on social media after Meryl Streep’s acceptance speech at this year’s Golden Globes was a poll. In this poll, the user asked their followers which word they thought President-elect Donald Trump would use to describe Meryl Streep. Among the possible survey descriptors was the word “overrated”; hours later, Trump had called Streep “one of the most overrated actresses in Hollywood”. When Streep accepted the Cecil
B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, the actress denounced Trump’s criticisms of foreigners and the media, as well as his mockery of a disabled reporter, all without even saying his name. Streep’s speech garnered praise and criticism alike, with critics upset that she used the moment to talk about politics. It’s no secret that Hollywood favors liberals, with many celebrities backing Hillary Clinton in this recent election. However, the results of said election prove Hollywood does not make much of an impact on voters. So why does it matter if celebrities voice their opinions on politics? It may be easy to forget that Meryl Streep is a living, breathing person, but she is just that. As a citizen of the United States, the freedom of speech is a constitutional right. Your paycheck or profession should
not strip you of that right. I understand that an immensely successful, white actress is not nearly as impacted by discrimination or policies as a lower-class African-American might be. Streep does not represent “the people,” nor should she. Streep, and a majority of the Golden Globe attendees never have to worry about food, clothing or shelter; Hollywood is a bubble, rarely challenged by obstacles the rest of the country might encounter. That being said, the A-List celebrities living in Hollywood are still citizens living in the United States. They are allowed to support and criticize politicians as they please, and stripping them of their voices is a violation of human rights. If Streep is genuinely that upset, and feels her voice should be heard in uncertain times for
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE
many people, what is the harm? It is also important to note the unfairness of judging celebrities on their activism; if they stay quiet on issues, they are immediately labeled as lazy or careless. Streep didn’t even mention Trump’s name in her speech. She didn’t mention a specific agenda or poke fun at his supporters. Her speech acknowledged people of various backgrounds, ethnicities and orientations and praised them for enriching the country – the country she cares enough about to make the foundation of an acceptance speech that could have been all about her success. Streep’s speech not only humanized her fellow actors, but tried to encourage decency. Trump’s shots at the actress only further ignite the spark politically-involved celebrities possess. They know how to poke his buttons, and he seems
to think the only thing to do is respond through Twitter. Unfortunately for Trump, not many celebrities admire him. This is not the first time a celebrity has openly showed dissatisfaction with a politician, and it will not certainly be the last; no politician is universally acclaimed, and Trump seems to forget this. Yes, Trump, it is sad that only a select few people in the music industry wish to perform at your inauguration, but no, there is no need to call out everyone that does not like or agree with you, especially when you’re about to become the president of the United States. Kevin Schwaller junior journalism major and news reporter and columnist for The Vidette. He can be reached at vidette_kschwal@. ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter at @kevschwa.
Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Rumble:
To the Cubs Trophy Tour for coming to Illinois State University. The trophy was in Redbird Arena Wednesday afternoon.
Redbird Rumble: Bloomington-Normal was recently ranked 10th
Redbird Fumble:
Redbird Fumble: To Illinois for being named the “weakest link in
To President-elect Donald Trump for canceling his plans to visit the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture on Martin Luther King Jr. Day because he was “too busy.”
in the top 20 college towns by the American Institute for Economic Research.
the Midwest” according to a report from the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability because of the state’s financial sitation.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
Rivian Automotive buys Mitsubishi plant Automotive technology company purchases the former Normal location for $2 million, plans to invest in electric vehicles and employ 1,000 workers CLAIRE WEINZIERL News Reporter | @ClaireWeinzierl
Rivian Automotive completed its $2 million purchase of the former Mitsubishi Motors Plant in Normal Thursday. The automotive technology company develops products and services related to sustainable mobility. Rivian plans to employ 1,000 workers and invest $175 million making electric vehicles in Normal. Mitsubishi Motors shut down production at the plant in Normal in November 2015 and laid off the last 1,200 employees in May 2016. At one point, the plant employed 3,000 workers. Mitsubishi Motors is a large company based in Japan that produces ships, planes, air conditioning and other electronics. They began producing cars in 1917. The company is now partly owned by Nissan. Mitsubishi employs approximately 30,500 workers and had a net income of 118.2 billion Yen in 2015. While Mitsubishi has had success in Japan, its North American escapade was not nearly as promising as once hoped. One former Mitsubishi employee, who prefers not to be named, worked at the plant for 27 years in the quality control division. The employee
Anna Gallagher | Staff Photographer
The Normal Mitsubishi Motors Plant closed its doors for the final time in May 2016. At one point, over 3,000 employees worked for the Japanese firm. believes that the closing of the North American plant was not a huge loss in relation to the scale of the company and all that it produces. “The last 12 or so years didn’t go as planned, sales were down, and it was clear it was not working out in the United States,” the former employee
GAS continued from page 3
The outlook also forecasted a spike at the pump later this winter and spring when the seasonal switch from “winterblend” to “summer-blend” goes into effect, as mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Clean Air Act. In the nation’s largest cities, including Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Seattle, GasBuddy predicts motorists will see $3 a gallon. Such prices have a strong chance of appearing in many other large cities in the U.S. as well. Over the course of 2017, $355 billion will be spent on gasoline in the U.S.; this is $52 billion more than last year. “The list of factors being mixed into the yearly forecast has never been larger,” GasBuddy Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan said in a press release. “This year will see a new administration take over, perhaps the most oil-friendly in some time, with so many unknowns in regards to policy changes. We’ll be keeping a keen eye on such along with taxation changes. But forecasting fuel prices, especially this year, remains a challenging balance of science and art.” Other factors that may influence retail gas prices include federal and state tax changes, volitility in the Middle East, currency f luctuations, refinery maintenance and unscheduled outages, weather events and shipping and transportation issues. Charts released in GasBuddy’s Fuel Price Outlook 2017
said. “Mitsubishi had success in Japan, so I think they wanted to expand their success to North America, but it did not work out in the long term as they had anticipated. “ Rivian Automotive already operates research facilities in San Francisco and Detroit and hopes to
show the highest gas prices of 2017 in the month of May, at an average of $2.67 per gallon. They also show the most expensive gas prices in San Francisco at a peak daily average of $3.50 to $3.85 per gallon. “In recent years the ‘price at the pump’ continues to garner more media attention serving as an economic barometer on Main Street that stirs opinions from a broad swath of consumers from coast to coast,” GasBuddy Senior Petroleum Analyst Gregg Laskoski said in a press release. “Forecasting the direction of the ‘barometer,’ the potential trouble spots and how the trends are likely to translate into dollars and cents affords us the opportunity to share insights that help everyone save money, even when prices are climbing.” The price of gasoline has declined every year since 2012. The reasons for this decline are clearly highlighted in the outlook and include such reasons as “substantial and consistent downward pressure on global crude oil caused by the global imbalance that is maintained and strengthened by all parties involved.” While economic growth and consumption in the U.S., China, India and Europe is stagnant, oil production is booming and expanding its supply around the world that has outpaced demand. “A healthier economy with higher employment; real job growth from full-time positions for heads of households, not part-time positions for minimum wage earners; and meaningful increases in measures such as the labor participation rate, earnings and savings would likely raise
Emma Horath | Vidette Senior Photographer
Consumers can expect high gas prices throughout the year, hitting its peak in May.
fuel consumption and gas prices together,” the outlook states. Claire Weinzierl is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at caweinz@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter @ ClaireWeinzierl.
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use the 2.6 million-square-foot plant to manufacture its new line of cars. “Obviously we’re very pleased they followed through with their intention to purchase the plant. It was our expectation they would after all the taxing bodies approved the (abatement),” Normal City Manager Mark
Peterson said in an interview with The Pantagraph. Although the community is hopeful, some are skeptical whether Rivian will be as successful as promised. “There was a lot of anticipation waiting to see if there would be a buyer. The cars that Rivian plans to build at the plant will be the first they have ever made, so it may be difficult for them to have the sales to impact the economy. They do not have a proven track record for building cars,” the former Mitsubishi employee said. “They are working on ideas for electric vehicles and other new innovations, but they have not proven themselves as a company yet. Hopefully the plant will be a success and it will positively impact our economy.” It is hoped that Rivian will have a positive impact on the community of Normal and will thrive overall. “I personally don’t think Rivian will be more successful than Mitsubishi was,” the former Mitsubishi employee said. “Mitsubishi was already a successful company when they expanded to Normal, but Rivian does not have the same history. Rivian has innovative visions for their vehicles, but they are still in the beginning stages of production.”
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PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE
Features
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
ISU alum exhibits art worldwide JAKE PLAUTZ Features Reporter | @JakePlautz
In 2009, Ben Chaykin graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in arts technology. Seven years later, Chaykin’s art has been featured around the world, most recently in an exhibit at the Asia Culture Center in Gwang ju, South Korea. His project the Emoji Center, featured in South Korea, was “an interactive art experience exploring the language of emoji.” Chaykin, 29, created the exhibit to have people look at the emojiin a different way than just its “digital cage.” Chaykin said the overall process of setting up the Emoji Center was grueling. By the time the designs for the exhibit were finalized, Chaykin had only two weeks to set up the exhibit. “In the last three days of installation, I slept a total of Ben Chaykin’s art pop-up Emoji Center was exhibited in South Korea. four hours, but all that said, I had the best time doing it,” Chaykin said. “I think it can be but he expected as much. “My time at ISU set me up on fun working under circumstances Chaykin returns back to the a foundation of curiosity of like this, especially with an United States Sunday. “I love it technology (old or new), and asked incredible team to vibe with here in Korea, but no amounts how art and design can positively while everything is becoming a of delicious kimchi can replace influence it.” reality.” family and friends.” The Emoji Center is not Chaykin, formerly based in While he loved his time in Chaykin’s first art project. He has Seattle, has been in South Korea South Korea, he said the best part done many more, all of which can for the past six months on an was being able to create an exhibit be found on his blog. The Emoji art residency. He described the with total creative freedom. Center may not be Chaykin’s last country as incredible. “Work He gives much of the credit of exhibit in South Korea either, as aside, I’ve found a serious love for his knowledge and untraditional he’s “already brewing new projects its people, culture, landscape and career path to his experiences here for the future.” food,” he said. It took a while to get at ISU, with a special thanks Chaykin said that once he used to some of the work customs, to professor Rose Marschack. returns to Seattle, he’s looking
EMILY GRIFFITH Features Reporter | @emilygriffy
Photo courtesy of benchayk.in
to continue his work after a short break with friends and family. “I’m looking to launch an entity that my work and art will live under,” Chaykin said. “A brand that represents me, my work and the people I collaborate with.” With Chaykin making his own way into the world of art, he’s offered some tips to aspiring artists: “Dive as hard as you can into whatever you’re curious in. Do the damn thing. Make it your job. Collaborate. Fail until you see something you love.”
SGA allows student involvement campus-, area-wide TARA BABIC Features Reporter | @tarbabic
the Success Week policy, creation of the Textbook Affordability Committee, securing funding for Reggie Redline and much more,” he said. “I myself am proud to have been a part of the Funding Fee Board where I have had the opportunity to secure over a million
limit stress and keep students focused near the time of finals week. If students notice a violation regarding this policy, they can fill Illinois State University’s out a violation form on SGA’s website and the Student Government Assoorganization will take the necessary actions to Know ciation allows students of to have it resolved. all different backStudent Body g r ou nd s to ge t Vice President involved on campus Zach Schaab said to ensure great expethat he enjoys riences for the entire SGA because he ISU population. gets to work and Members of interac t w it h t his orga ni zat ion many amazing are involved w ith people across mu lt iple projcampus. ects and activities “Knowing the throughout the ISU positive impact community as well we have on as the Bloomingtoncampus makes Normal community. it so enjoyable,” SGA works closely Schaab said. with peers, student Student Body organizations and Chief of Staff administration. Alex Goldstein A ssembly meetsaid SGA gave ings typically take him the courplace ever y other age to voice Wednesday evening h i s opi n ion s during the academic in an unbiased year in the Old Main setting. Room of the Bone “ You le a r n Student Center. a nd i nter ac t SGA at Illinois w it h p e ople Tiffany Morrison | Vidette Photographer who don’t quite State University is made of a legislative The Student Government Association serves as a gateway to growth and experiences for students involved. see eye to eye, and executive branch but it’s excelof government. Illilent training nois State’s student body elects the senators dollars in funds to various student organifor life in general,” Goldstein said. of the organization. zations on campus for events, traveling to The Student Government Association is a Graduate Senator Kenny Lin has been conferences, etc.” substantial way for students to gain quality involved with the organization for four years The Success Week policy, which applies to leadership experience and positively impact and is the longest tenured member of SGA. the week before final exams, discourages proISU. To get involved, visit the SGA Illinois Lin described his favorite aspects of his fessors from giving exams that are worth 10 State website and complete the SGA meminvolvement with SGA. “Some of the things percent or more of the overall course grade. bership application. we have accomplished in my time here are SGA implemented the policy in an attempt to
RSO
Businesses prepare for students’ return As more Redbirds fly back to the nest for the spring semester, popular Illinois State University businesses in the Bone Student Center prepare in different ways to handle the return and influx of business. In the first weeks of an incoming semester, students flood the bookstores to gather the needed supplies. ISU Bookstore, Barnes & Noble, ensures proper staff and preparation are in place. “We start getting book orders in October, and we source October through December for used books,” Store Manager Anne Harner said. “We’re here during break when campus is closed, working the whole time trying to get orders ready for students.” With the offer of price matching and student-friendly policies, Harner said there has been an increase in business, thus increasing their book orders. However, even with increased book orders, the bookstore still does not have enough books. She encourages students to start pre-ordering their books instead of waiting until the first week of classes. “If you go to class and find out you don’t need a book, we have a return policy where you can exchange or return your book for any reason with your receipt within the first week of class,” Harner said. “If you drop the class, then we extend that return policy to the first 30 days of class.” The official bookstore of Illinois State also tries to work with the students as much as possible. “Because we’re contracted here to be on campus, a set percentage of all your purchases in our store go back to Illinois State to keep student fees low … So, when students and parents buy their supplies, books and clothing here, it also helps the students by keeping their student fees low,” Harner said. Dining venues — such as Einstein Bros Bagels, McAlister’s, Burger King, Starbucks and more — also prepare for the return of business and take a rebuilding period while students are home for break. “Before break we deplete as much stock as possible, so orders are increased at the beginning of the semester to meet students’ needs,” said Jamie Wood, marketing coordinator for Event Management, Dining and Hospitality. Once students return, the sales come rushing in due to some venues either just re-opening or extending their hours. The ISU dining venues are busiest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “At the start of any semester, we have several new student employees, so we appreciate everyone’s patience as we make it through the training and transition period,” Wood said. Staff are often laid off over breaks and later return when the dining venues re-open, Wood said. However, due to students graduating or changes in schedules, the venues are actively hiring student employees. As the new semester begins, ISU businesses and students alike are adjusting to changes.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 7
THURSDAY JANUARY 19, 2017
Men’s tennis remains positive for spring season NICK DAMIANI Sports Reporter | @nGdamiani
The Illinois State men’s tennis team will begin its spring season Thursday against Arkansas Pine Bluff and Tulsa. The Redbirds are coming off a strong fall season thanks to a 14-4 showing in singles play in their final fall meet. The Redbirds received strong play throughout their lineup. Coach Mark Klysner thought the fall season was especially helpful for his younger players. “The freshmen got a lot of matches in,” Klysner said. “The results may not have been what they wanted, but at this point it’s about getting them acclimated to college tennis.” The team's two freshmen, Matias Chomali and Peter Foersom, are expected to take
JARED LITKENHUS Sports Reporter | @jaredlit_isu
LaRoche named MIC gymnast of the week On the heels of a season-opening win Saturday at the Ozone Collegiate Gymnastics Classic in Knoxville, Tenn., Illinois State sophomore gymnast Meredith LaRoche was named Midwest Independent Conference Gymnast of the Week Tuesday. LaRoche won the all-around competition with a personal best score of 38.925. Two first place ties in both balance beam and floor event is what springboarded her into the top overall spot. The Redbirds won the event with a score of 192.550. Temple was a close second with a score total of 192.225. LaRoche and the ISU gymnastics team are back in action Saturday when they travel to Bowling Green, Ohio, to take on the Bowling Green State Falcons inside Anderson Arena.
The Illinois State women’s basketball team will go on the road this weekend as it plays a pair of games against Missouri Va l le y C on fer enc e fo e s Missouri State and Wichita State. The Redbirds (4-12, 1-4 MVC) will look to stop a fourgame losing skid in the game against Missouri State (7-9, 3-2 MVC). Tip off is set for 7 p.m. Friday at JHQ Arena. The Bears will be coming into Friday’s game as one of the hottest teams in the conference, winning their last
three conference matchups. The most recent win was against Southern Illinois, 78-60, on Sunday. The Redbirds will look to slow down junior guard Liza Fruendt who is leading Missouri State in scoring with 14.8 points per game. The second game of the weekend set will be Sunday in Wichita, Kan. against the Wichita State Shockers (6-10, 1-4 MVC) . The game will start at 2 p.m at Charles Koch Arena. The Shockers are coming off their only MVC win, 74-67, against the Evansville Purple Aces. Angie Tompkins was the leading scorer in that game w ith 16 points while also
pulling down seven rebounds. ISU will look to senior guard Taylor Stewart and junior forward Hannah Green, who are the team’s leading scorer (11.7 PPG) and rebounder (6.0 RPG) respectively, to snap them out this recent cold spell. “I feel like with all the distractions we’re still coming back and we’re still putting things together,” head coach Barb Smith said. “But I really like this team’s attitude and their work ethic is really strong in practice. So, we’re going to get there.” The team is coming off a disappointing loss to division opponent Drake, 87-36, and
hopes that cleaner play will lead to more success. The team will look to improve on its 22.8 field goal percentage and cut down on its 19 turnovers that it displayed in its last contest. “Our turnovers af fected us,” Smith said. “I think they had too many points off of turnovers.” Look for the Redbirds to improve on its 1-6 road record this weekend against two MVC opponents. Jared Litkenhus is a sports reporter for The Vidette. He can be reached at jmlitke@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @jaredlit_isu.
JARED LITKENHUS /VIDETTE
Redbird Amanda McClain has been named Missouri Valley Scholar-Athlete of the Week for the week of Jan. 9-15 with an exceptional performance at the Terre Haute Double Dual. During the meet McClain won the women’s long jump with a leap of 5.91m (19-04.75) which is currently top in the MVC. She also went on to win the woman’s 400-meter dash at a time of 56.04 which is leading the MVC. Her final win was in the woman’s 4x400meter relay with a team time of 3:50.13 which is also an MVC leader. Not only is McClain undefeated in all her events this season she also shows exceptional work in the classroom. As a sophomore biology major McClain has a 3.92 GPA. You can catch McClain with the rest of the men’s and women’s track and field team compete on Saturday in Charleston where they will compete in the John Craft Invitational at EIU.
JARED LITKENHUS /VIDETTE
TROPHY
continued from page 1
“My family have been Cubs fans since I was born,” senior public relations major Kiana Kotke said. “We’ve had season tickets for the past 20 years … so it was really amazing just to see this. We waited for a few hours and the two seconds next to (the trophy) was really incredible.” While some enjoyed the win for themselves, others celebrated for those that had waited their whole lives for this monumental event. “It meant a lot for (the Cubs) to win (the World Series) with my grandfather,” senior marketing major Clint Zumer said. “He’s the biggest Cubs fan I know. The first thought I had when they won it was relief for him rather than joy for myself.” Some fans noticed the broader effect the Cubs winning the World Series brought the city. “The last time (the Cubs) won the World Series I obviously wasn’t here, so it’s cool to see (the trophy),” freshman undecided major Cam Canales said. “The city just kind of goes crazy, so that’s probably the best part: seeing the city go wild.” ISU is no stranger to hosting famous sports hardware. The Stanley Cup made a few trips to Bloomington-Normal after the Blackhawks won in 2010, 2013 and 2015. With every new trophy appearance, the community buzzes with excitement. “We’ve had the Stanley Cup twice, and now we’ve had the World Series trophy with the Cubs,” Lyons said. “I don’t know too many places that have had both.”
FRI. THURS. WED. TUES. MON.
McClain named MVC scholar-athlete of the week
while Tulsa is ranked inside the top 30. Klysner will look to these matches as a measuring stick for his team. “I just want to see where we're at. I'm not going to look too much into the overall team score. I want to see how our guys stack up against some of the best players in the country,” Klysner said. The Redbirds are still about two months away from opening up conference play, when they host the defending MVC champion Wichita State. Klysner hopes the tough schedule will prepare his team for April’s conference championships. “This is all to prepare our guys for conference play. We’re fortunate enough to be playing the conference tournament at home and hopefully we can make something happen,” Klysner said.
Women’s basketball tries to snap losing streak
SPORTS IN BRIEF
on a bigger role Redbirds. Sertkaya in the spring due is expected to play to injuries to key through the injury, contributors. while no timetable Junior Christhas been set for offer Greve and Greve’s return. sophomore Egehan Despite the injuSertkaya both sufries, Klysner wants fered injuries over his team focusing Dylan Matias Peter W i nter Bre a k . on the upcoming Steffens Chomali Foersom Greve suffered a matches. broken foot, while Sertkaya is dealing with “Don’t think about the injuries too much. a wrist fracture. I want our guys to just go out and play, they Greve was second on the team last season got nothing to lose,” Klysner said. with 22 singles victories. He also played douThe Redbirds will have a tall task taking bles with Dylan Steffens and finished 15-13 on two nationally recognized programs in overall, good enough to land the duo a top their first three matches in Tulsa and Arkan60 national ranking. Sertkaya made vast sas Fayetteville Arkansas is currently ranked improvement in his second year with the 19 by the intercollegiate tennis association,
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Sports
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
Illinois State stomps over Bradley, 6949, in first round of War On I-74; improves to 7-0 MVC
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017
WAR WON
JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor | @JCTSports
PEORIA — As the magic keeps on coming, Illinois State was all smiles on Wednesday evening. The Redbirds assisted on 20 of their 25 made field goals as ISU improved its record to 15-4, 7-0 Missouri Valley Conference, stomping over Bradley, 69-49, at Carver Arena in Peoria in front of a crowd of 7,170. In every victory this season, the Redbirds have been led by their “core four” veterans (Paris Lee, Tony Wills, Deontae Hawkins, MiKyle McIntosh), and Wednesday was no different. This time, Hawkins paved the way for ISU, tallying 20 points and 10 rebounds while Lee added 10 points, five assists and six steals. Lee became ISU’s alltime steals record holder (225), surprising previous record holder Ron Jones (222). “Unb el ie vable defense effort by our team again,” ISU head coach Dan Muller said. Deontae “Our defense has Hawkins been traveling and being competitive. We really moved the ball tonight. Our turnovers were disappointing. But other than that we played a pretty darn good game. We’ve been pretty unselfish offensively. It is a strength of our team is our offense.” Coming off a huge win at Redbird Arena against previously MVC unbeaten team Wichita State, some thought ISU might have a letdown at Bradley on Wednesday. Hawkins and the Redbirds made sure this was not the case. “We just stay locked in,” Hawkins who shot 53.8 percent (7-of-13) from the field and 80 percent (4-of-5) from 3, said. “We keep taking care of the process and keep on chopping wood. Knowing our opponents are going to come out with that energy, we just need to match it and we did so tonight.” Both the Redbirds and Braves (8-12, 3-4 MVC) were slow out of the gate offensively. ISU didn’t score its first field goal until four minutes in, when D.J. Clayton converted a lay-up in transition, putting ISU up 3-2. Once ISU found its groove, the Redbirds never looked back. ISU entered halftime with a 36-17 advantage and continued to ride the momentum throughout the second half. The Redbirds largest lead was 27 points at the 13:01 mark. ISU outrebounded Bradley 38-32. Phil Fayne matched Hawkins with 10 rebounds. “They’re a very good defensive
Illinios State defeats Bradley 69-49 to remain in first place in the MVC with an undefeated conference record.
Jenna Kadziulis | Vidette Photo Editor
“We trust each other. We know we’re capable of making shots and making some plays. Coach (Muller) says, ‘always stay in triple threat and be ready to make a play.’ And I did, thanks to the strength of my teammates finding me.” Deontae Hawkins Forward
team,” Bradley head coach Brian Wardle said. “We know that. They kept fighting and we stopped fighting. We got quiet. That’s what happens. You get beat by a good team. Lee. ... he’s really, really good. He’s all over the place defensively.” Sophomore Antoine Pittman paced the Braves with 11 points,
three assists and two steals. The Redbirds committed 17 turnovers compared to the Braves’ 15. Both teams finished with 10 steals. ISU converted on 25-of-53 (47.2 percent) field goals, while Bradley made just 15-of-47 (31.9 percent) of its shots. Lee and Hawkins combined for eight 3-pointers as the Redbirds
knocked down 11-of-22 3-point attempts. “We trust each other,” Hawkins said. “We know we’re capable of making shots and making some plays. Coach (Muller) says, ‘always stay in triple threat and be ready to make a play.’ And I did, thanks to the strength of my teammates finding me.”
The Redbirds look to continue its magic season on Saturday when they host the Drake Bulldogs on Doug Collins Night. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at Redbird Arena. ISU Hall of Famer and former NBA player/coach Doug Collins will be in attendance and honored at a special ceremony during halftime.