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’BIRDS ADVANCE IN FCS QUARTERFINALS
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
Vol. 128 / No. 31
Experts predict mild winter The weather outside may not be so frightful this winter according to recent reports BRENT BADER News Reporter
This season plays hosts to the weather event El Niño, which in the past has heated portions of the Pacific Ocean and caused alternate weather patterns. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this has many different consequences across the globe including an unusually warm winter here in the Midwest. For many students this a relief compared to the usually chilling temperatures and at times excessive snowfall we experience here. “I hate the winter,” Elizabeth Yacono, junior marketing major, said. “With the snow it’s always a pain with your car and cleaning off your car at 8 a.m. is just not fun.” El Niño won’t make for a completely snow-free winter, as cold snaps can still occur, but it is expected to cause less snowfall and fewer freezing days if previous El Niño years are held as examples. Some Illinois State University students look forward to taking advantage of the warmer weather to take more time outdoors than they usually would be able to.
Meteorologists predict El Niño will cause an unusually warm winter for the Midwest. “I love going outside and I rarely like to be inside and sometimes it’s just depressing when you get blizzards and you just sit there,” Lesly Alvarez, freshman international business major, said. “On top of that I feel it gets dangerous outside.” Warmer temperatures could lead to less accidents on the streets due to less ice on the roads.
Certain activities such as ice skating or sledding may become more difficult this winter, but that does not seem to bother most students. “I do go outside and play in the snow and it is fun and I do actually go ice skating a lot and I like that, but I just don’t like being in the winter,” Tatiana Picon-Paez, freshman international business major, said.
Archive photo illustration
Warmer weather interests Picon, as she is still adjusting to the climate change after spending a majority of her life in warmer climates such as Venezuela. Some students, however, have grown accustomed to the cold and are not as accepting of warmer weather this winter. see WINTER page 5
Normal seeks student input AUDREY ANFIELD News Reporter
In an effort to gather Illinois State University students’ input for the next strategic plan, the Town of Normal is surveying ISU students through the PlanIt Normal Community Survey. Recently celebrating Normal’s 150 year anniversary, the community is looking for ways to adapt to the new century and new realities. The plan helps guide the physical, social and economic development aspects of Normal for the future. In only a few years, Normal’s community revitalized Uptown Normal and made changes in institutions, commerce and expectations. So far, there have been about 1,600 responses. The town hopes to acquire at least 2,000 responses total. All students at ISU are encouraged to participate. According to the PlanIt Normal website, the town encourages community members to “describe how you see the Normal of the next twenty years.” The survey encourages survey takers to explain what they want to preserve in Normal, reveal any favorite things about Normal or even tell a favorite story about being in Normal. Normal hopes to gain a better understanding of the present and develop a path toward Normal’s future.
Heartland offers workshops for auto workers BRENT BADER News Reporter
As one door closes, another one opens, and Heartland Community College is dedicated to helping the displaced workers of the Mitsubishi plant find that newly opened door by offering free career readiness workshops. “HCC is honored to be offering these workshops,” Kelli Hill, vice president of continuing education and advancement at Heartland, said. “We not only want to fulfill our mission as a comprehensive community college, but we want to help many whom we personally know as family, friends and neighbors.” These workshops cover material that will help displaced workers re-enter the evolved job market by teaching them how to job hunt and update their technological and interview skills. The entire schedule of upcoming workshops can be found on the HCC website . These classes are updated as needed and repeated depending on the enrollment numbers. Each workshop fills a two hour time slot; the first
hour is for the usual class, and the second hour is reserved for participants to ask individual questions or find specific assistance from instructors. The classes are a customized training program through the Continuing Education department at HCC, which exists to respond to a broad range of community learning needs. “Through Continuing Education, HCC has the business processes and experienced staff to coordinate course content and materials, find high quality instructors and facilities, and register participants,” Hill said. It also has numerous instructors through its Adult Education program with specific expertise in addressing the needs of adult learners. Heartland is also working with Career Link, the region’s Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Administrator for the Department of Labor funding. “Due to the large number of affected Mitsubishi employees, we enlisted the assistance of both Heartland Community College and Illinois Central College, through a Request for Proposal Process, to provide workshops in a
HCC is offering job workshops for the displaced Mitsubishi plant workers. timely manner,” Dena Werth, assistant director of the McLean branch of Career Link, said. Career Link works with community regarding job search readiness skills on a daily basis, and all of its services are free because it is
Archive Photo
federally funded through the Department of Labor Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act.
see HEARTLAND page 5
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
NEWS IN BRIEF College Alumni Club celebrates 125 years
Winter commencement will take place this Saturday in Redbird Arena.
Archive Photo Illustration
Winter grads to walk Saturday EMA SASIC Senior reporter
There will be two ceremonies for winter commencement. The College of Arts and Sciences, College of Fine Arts and Mennonite College of Nursing will have their ceremony 9 a.m. Saturday in Redbird Arena. The College of Applied Science and Technology, College of Business and College of Education and Interdisciplinary University Studies will be held 1 p.m. also in Redbird Arena. The University will award 1,169 bachelor’s degrees, 185 master’s degrees and 42 doctoral degrees. Prior to the ceremony, Special Events Facilitator Terri Haerr said students should make sure they have their regalia ready. “The Jostens Representative will be on campus to help with any last minute regalia needs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday in the Bone Student Center,” Haerr added. Additionally, students should
arrive with cap and gown one hour before the ceremony start time and check in at the Horton Field House. Seating for parents and guests is on a first come, first serve basis. No tickets are needed for the ceremony, so guests should arrive 45 minutes to an hour prior to the ceremony start time to ensure desired seating. There is also no limit to the number of guests per student who can attend commencement. Students will hear many speakers during both ceremonies. Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Janet Krejci will deliver a welcome address to graduates and attendees. Student Body President Ryan Powers will provide a student welcome, and President Larry Dietz will say the commencement address. A multitude of presenters will welcome graduates on stage to accept their diplomas. During the two ceremonies, Amy Hurd, Sally Parry, Peter Guither, Laura Kennedy, Barbara Schlatter
and Lance Lippert will introduce doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degree graduates. The Symphonic Winds, under the direction of Martin Seggelke, will perform the processional and recessional with “Pomp and Circumstance,” “With Honor Crowned” and “Crown Imperial.” Family, friends and other supporters that cannot make it to commencement will be able to watch the ceremonies online. Live streaming will be available during both ceremonies. University Registrar Admissions and Records Supervisor Christina Bray said the most important thing students should keep in mind is to “relax, reflect on their accomplishments and enjoy the ceremony.” “Draw on your knowledge, skills and experience gleaned from your education,” Bray said. “Commencement is the beginning of a new chapter in your life — be true to yourself and make the most of it.”
The College Alumni Club is still going strong 125 years after it started. The club was founded by Illinois Wesleyan University to foster discussion of diverse issues in the Twin Cities. “It fills a unique place in the community. It brings community professionals together and college professionals,” club president Mary Caisley said in a Pantagraph article. Past members have included retired university presidents along with doctors, lawyers, accountants and even an airline pilot. “It is a good melting pot,” Caisley said in the Pantagraph. “You get to learn something and you get to socialize with people you wouldn’t necessarily run into day to day.” “The common element is people who have curiosity,” Bob Aaron, the club’s vice president, said in the article. One of the biggest changes to the club was the addition of women which did not happen until 1998. The club currently has about 50 members and meets for dinner once a month, taking summers off. Each meeting consists of one member giving a 40-minute presentation on a topic of their choosing, followed by questions. The exact subject isn’t known until the talk begins; only a vague title is provided in advance. The opportunity to learn information like that is part of what attracted Aaron to join the club 16 years ago.
Debates used to be part of the regular program until 1959. A “mini” debate is planned for the anniversary dinner between 21-year-old member Phares O’Daffer and Wally Mead, a member since 2005. SUSANNA DOEHLER VIDETTE
University Galleries publishes book University Galleries published a book based on exhibition “Walter Robinson: Paintings and Other Indulgences” which was on display from October to Decemeber 2014. The book includes over 200 color images of Robinson’s work from 1979 through 2014. There are also essays by University Galleries Director Barry Blinderman, Illinois State University Art History Professor Vanessa Meikle Schulman and writers Glenn O’Brien and Charles F. Stuckey. A School of Art graphic design major and B.F.A. student Andrew Bybee designed the book. Although the exhibit contained 94 paintings, the book includes those paintings as well as individual paintings. The book was funded by the Illinois Arts Council, an anonymous donor and the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation. It can be purchased at University Galleries along with other exhibition publications. AUDREY ANFIELD VIDETTE
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Happy HappyHolidays Holidays!!
From The Vidette Staff
Viewpoint
PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
Media reflects problems with shooting coverages
L
ast week, two days after the mass shooting at a center for people with developmental disabilities in San Bernardino, Calif., CNN and MSNBC crews entered the home of the shooters in a live broadcast. Cameramen ransacked the apartment, broadcasting personal documents and family photos of the shooters in an effort to get the most revealing coverage. Since the broadcasts, the networks have been condemned, but the problem with how the media reports mass shootings has to do with the public, as well as the media. It remains unclear under what circumstances the reporters and cameramen entered the apartment. First reports claimed police had gathered all the evidence they needed, and the landlord had given permission. Later, the landlord claimed he had not granted permission, and some speculated he was paid to grant entrance to the reporters. Whatever really happened, it is clear what CNN and MSNBC did was a breach of journalistic integrity. Showing social security cards and drivers licenses of
relatives on live television, the reporters invaded the privacy of people who had nothing to do with the attack. The reports had a dehumanizing effect that can bleed into the whole Muslim community. Invading and broadcasting the inside of the shooters’ apartment doesn’t help us to understand them; it only serves to condemn them and their broader Islamic ideologies. Images of Islamic
religious symbols in the home were broadcast in the context of terrorism. The way that the networks covered the shootings only works to divide us and rouse suspicion, in a time when unity and solidarity are needed. The actions of these major cable news networks not only represents journalistic malpractice, but also the problem with how the public consumes news about tragedies. Mass shootings
in the U.S. have taken on a kind of voyeuristic quality in the news media. The media is only giving people what they want. Soon after a mass shooting, attention falls on the shooter as people try to find out who they are and what their motives were. There is a fascination with what could make a person act so heinously that can be understood. But the way the shooters, instead of the victims,
Editorial Cartoon by Athena Tapia
are immortalized in our national psyche only spawns more shooters looking for the same kind of attention. Understanding what drives people to do something as appalling as a mass shooting is important in stopping future incidents. But breaking into the homes of shooters only helps satisfy the public’s thirst for any and all information about the shooters, no matter how irrelevant it may be. Even as CNN and MSNBC apologize for their actions, they are not taking full responsibility for what happened at the shooters home. MSNBC, which had the most extensive coverage of the apartment, has said it is sorry, but has also tried to shift blame by saying it was not the first crew to enter the home. Until news outlets, along with the general public, comes to the full realization that the way mass shootings are covered in the U.S. is problematic, they will only feed the phenomenon. Public and media attention on mass shootings needs to shift to the root cause of what drives people to act in this way, instead of focusing on extraneous details from their personal life.
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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Make safe driving a priority this holiday season MY VIEW EMA SASIC Vidette Columnist
A
s the holidays approach and students head home for a month-long winter break, something that always needs to be reinforced is safe driving around the holidays. According to a press release by Prevention First, December has been designated as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. It is “a time to raise awareness about the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.” The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration reported 32,719 people were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2013, and 10,076 were due to drunken driving. Illinois has also seen its fair share of tragic numbers; in 2013, 991 crashes occurred, and a staggering 32 percent, or 317 of those crashes, were due to drunken driving. Throughout the month, many people will host different holiday parties, and others will travel to attend. While safe driving should always be an important consideration, it is crucial to be aware and prepared of driving hazards this time of year. One of the most famous days for driving under the influence is New Years. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the 12-hour window between 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 and 6 a.m. on Jan. 1
tends to have about 71 percent more crashes involving the use of alcohol or drugs than the average weekend night. The only way to prevent these statistics from recurring is to avoid driving under the influence of substances completely. It is not worth risking the lives of others to make it back home that night, and more often that not, the party host will offer a couch to crash on. If sleeping over is not an option, call a cab. At any time of day or night, a cab will be ready to get people home safely. Another way to prevent impaired driving this month is by going out in a group and having a designated driver. By picking at least one designated driver, a group will know that they can count on one of their friends to get them back home safe and sound. However, it is important
the designated driver can be trusted to not consume anything that night. No matter what type of holiday party is occurring, non-alcoholic beverages should always be provided as an option. While some people do want to drink alcoholic beverages, giving them the option of having a soda will help keep their blood alcohol level down. Snacks should also be available so people are not drinking on empty stomachs. This could prevent higher blood alcohol levels, which are dangerous if they choose to drive. Having options available for all guests could be the reason that more friends are safe during the holidays. Prevention First is offering a Family Pledge contract for parents to ensure their children are making safe choices when they go out. The pledge can be found at
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE Redbird Rumble:
To the ISU football team for defeating Western Illinois 36-19 Saturday. The Redbirds will advance in the FCS Quarterfinals 6:30 p.m. Friday against University of Richmond at Hancock Stadium.
Redbird Rumble:
To the 1,396 graduates saying farewell to ISU this weekend. Winter commencement will have two ceremonies, one at 9 a.m. and a second at 1 p.m. Saturday in Redbird Arena.
www.distraction.gov. They also advise that colleges start their own Students Against Destructive Decisions chapter, so students can learn the dangers of impaired driving more in-depth. While most people are celebrating the most wonderful time of the year, many sadly have to remember the tragedies that resulted from impaired driving. Nobody is infaliable to these incidents, and taking extra precautions during holiday parties could save the lives of loved ones and others on the road. Ema Sasic is a sophomore journalism major and columnist for The Vidette. Any questions or concerns regarding her column can be sent to vidette_esasic@ ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ema_sasic.
Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Rumble: To Winter
Break starting in just a few days. The last day of finals week is Thursday, and Redbirds will be flying home to spend the holidays with their families. Don’t forget to come back Jan. 11 for spring semester!
Check out our website videtteonline.com throughout break for coverage on graduation, sports and other updates.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
WINTER continued from page 1
“I love the winter,” Rachel Costello, freshman health information management major, said. “I like dressing up in boots and scarves and I sort of like the cold. I also like to go sledding occasionally.” The weather events that El Niño creates could also have negative effects on other portions of the globe. El Niño has been known to deprive some areas of rain and cause hurricanes, which could negatively impact other areas struggling with the current state of our climate. “I know we just had a hurricane in Guadalajara,” Alvarez said. “So it just kind of worries me to be honest.” Everyone hopes that the event will not cause major issues to any other part of the globe, but will give Illinois a warm break from the frigid winters of the past. Brent Bader is a news reporter at The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_babader@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter at @baderwrites. Tracy Conoboy / Staff Photographer
HEARTLAND
Members of the Seedling Theatre performed this weekend in the annual Christmas show in downtown Bloomington.
continued from page 1
Seedling Theatre fosters new growth
Together the two organizations hope to assess the impact these workshops have to better serve the community in the future. “HCC has a very good relationship with Career Link,” Hill said. “Career Link has surveyed Mitsubishi workers regarding general areas of interest. Heartland will assess participant satisfaction and future needs of participants as workshops continue through spring 2016.” Hill hopes these workshops can not only help Mitsubishi employees, but the community at large. “Beyond the personal impact,” Hill said, “helping others find ways to sustain their fiscal responsibilities and lifestyles has an immeasurable economic impact on our entire region.” Brent Bader is a news reporter at The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_babader@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter at @baderwrites.
NIKKI NIGGEMEYER News Reporter
Seedling Theatre can be described as one of the hidden gems of the Bloomington-Normal area. Seedling Theatre Artistic Director Donna Anhalt said, “It is a special theater for the young at heart.” However, what sets this theatre apart from others is that it consists of both special needs children and able-bodied children who participate in performances during the year. Anhalt said the combined group members work together to stage their shows. This is the sixth year Anhalt has taken the theatre under her wing. Over the years, she has seen the inf luences and benefits the
theater has on special needs kids. There were 22 performers in the cast for Seedling Theatre’s most recent performance and Christmas show. The performers for the most recent show had children with different levels of autism, Down syndrome, visual impairments and cerebral palsy in the cast. Performers range from as young as nine to age 50, which allows for a very diverse cast. “They really have grown individually and they have also really just grown as a group and it is just really great to see,” Anhalt said. Through participating in the theatre, Anhalt and parents have seen the positive effects the theatre has contributed to the performers’ day-to-day lives. They have seen improvements in personality; performers have become
more social and continue to participate more throughout the years. A nhalt described Seedling Theatre’s impact on one of the involved children. “She wouldn’t even talk the first year and by the second year she was the lead role in the musical,” Anhalt said. “I’m definitely not saying it’s me; I am saying it’s what we do. It’s the theatre.” The theatre receives a lot of help from Illinois State University’s Department of Theatre and Dance, professors and students. ISU senior Theatre Education Major Grace Irvin helped direct one of the shows. “Seeing children with special needs get on stage and perform a show blows my mind because a lot
of people out there don’t believe people with special needs can do the same things,” Irvin said. The first weekend in December was Seedling Theatre’s seventh annual Christmas show. The show took place at First Christian Church in downtown Bloomington and consisted of four performances throughout the weekend. The performances in this year’s annual Christmas show included a lesser known Dickens story called “The Cricket on the Hearth” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Nikki Niggemeyer is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at Vidette_nniggem@ ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @165_Niggemeyer.
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PAGE 6 | SPORTS | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
ATTENDANCE from page 8
second round match at Hancock Stadium looked more like a high school team than anything due to the lack of ISU fan support. For years ISU has been considered a basketball school, but the tide has quickly turned. With the football program’s most recent success, many donors and fans alike expect a new training facility in the upcoming years along with a possible horseshoe bleacher addition to Hancock Stadium and a complete revamp of the western side and Horton Field house. Talks of a possible move to an FBS conference have occurred on game days and online fan forums. The Bloomington-Normal community is buzzing with endless talks of future plans for ISU athletics, yet the town
cannot even fill the current stadium to half capacity for a quality playoff game on a beautiful December day. Before considering of any of these plans, ISU students and the community as a whole need to take a step back and evaluate their support for ISU athletics and the football program. High expectations and low turnout have been and will continue to be the story for the duration of December for the FCS playoffs. Being a student, it is understandable my fellow peers may have been studying for this upcoming finals week. However, this is just the sixth time in school history the football program has made the FCS playoffs, all the more impressive with ISU claiming home field advantage throughout. What a time to be alive. Committing just three hours of your Saturday afternoon is the least ISU coach Brock Spack and the football
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team deserve. The scene was quiet on game day against WIU. Leading up to kickoff, I walked along Main Street toward Hancock Stadium from my apartment. I was caught off guard as parking lots were sparse as ever on a Saturday with little to no traffic. I found myself questioning, “Is there really a home playoff game today?” The atmosphere told me otherwise. With a student enrollment of over 20,000 and a combined Bloomington-Normal population of 130,000, Saturday’s turnout was flat out embarrassing. Students and the Bloomington-Normal community need to show more enthusiasm to this more than deserving football program. Even with 1,000 free student tickets given out, Red Alert and the Athletics Department can only do so much in regards to promoting games. Students and the community need to not just make it to the surrounding parking lots of Hancock Stadium for tailgating, but make it to their seat inside the stadium and witness some quality college football. WIU fans made the two hour trip from Macomb, filling up nearly half the Western side of Hancock Stadium with purple and gold. Not only did Leatherneck fans show up, but they were a very loud and attentive crowd. One can only imagine how Hancock Stadium will look if and when
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games filled Hancock Stadium to capacity and more with standing room only attendance. Yes, these games occurred during warmer weather and on special event weekends (home opener, Family Weekend, Homecoming), but this time around, the stakes are much higher. From here on out, every time the Redbirds take the field, a trip to Frisco, Texas and the 2015-16 FCS National Championship are on the line. ISU was blessed by the selection committee with home field advantage throughout the 2015 FCS playoffs, but will it really be home field advantage with the embarrassing, minimal fan support? Before taking over as head coach, Spack saw the ISU football program as a “sleeping giant.” After racking up back-to-back MVFC Championships and currently travelling a road back to Frisco, it is safe to say the giant has awoken. Support the giant. Support the football program. They are the ultimate embodiment of the University. Have pride in the bright red we wear. Take hold and make the most of the years you have left at ISU. “The big time is not a place; it’s a state of mind, and we think we are big time,” Spack said. Illinois State football is big time. The players, coaching staff and athletic department all know it. Illinois State students and the Bloomington-Normal community do not.
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Miscellaneous
a possible FCS playoffs semifinal matchup/2014 FCS National Championship rematch against North Dakota State occurs on Dec. 18 or 19. The Bison faithful are known for traveling in bunches and will migrate in flocks to Central Illinois. Redbird fans can expect a sea of yellow and gold taking over Normal if the matchup does happen. Bison fans will not only outnumber Redbird fans but will make Hancock Stadium look like FargoDome 2.0. As students begin abandoning campus this week for winter break, this upcoming Friday’s game against Richmond may possibly be the least attended game of the year. Pair that with a 6:30 p.m. kickoff and many Chicagoland and surrounding area fans may show up late or may not make the trip down at all. I am not attacking the devoted ISU student section or the loving alumni who constantly give back to the University. Before being a sports editor at The Vidette, I too was part of the ISU student section and Red Alert. There are members of Red Alert who show up to every game, bringing enthusiasm and intensity on a weekly basis. We have great committed fans, we just need more of them. Red Alert and the Bloomington Normal community have proven they are able to not just fill but overfill Hancock Stadium in three sellouts this season. These three
Large 7 Br. House for 7. $535/person 2 kitchens, 2 livingrooms, 2 blocks south
of CVA, large yard, laundry. 287-1870 Large 4 Br. 2 bath Apt. $335/person, 12’ vaulted ceiling in liv. rm., 2 minute drive south on University St. 287-1870 Large 2 BR. Townhouse. $565/person, $375 for 3, Prime Location, 2 blocks south of Watterson, central air, laundry in kitchen, 2 parking spaces, furniture, very nice. 610 S. Fell. 287-1870 406 Dewey Ave: Spacious 4 bedroom, 1 bath, dishwasher, parking, laundry. All utilties included. Close to ISU. Starting $370/bedroom. 309-827-5686 605-607 Kingsley Street, Normal. Furnished 4-bdrm, 3 baths, off-street parking. No pets, no smoking, no loud parties. Ten months lease. Asking rent + Utilities: $525/bdrm. Security deposit: $250/bdrm. Ph: 618-444-3968. 401 N. Fell Ave. 4 bedroom/2 bath. Breakfast bar with stools, dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer & dryer in unit. Central air, secured building, off street parking, high speed internet provided. Starting at $530/per person. Call Excel Real Estate at 309-829-5885.
301 S. WALNUT: Furnished 2 Bedrooms. Balcony, Covered parking, Laundry. Quiet Building. Start at ONLY $290 Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Fell: Spacious 2 & 4 Bedrooms. 1 block from campus. Laundry. Start at $370. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 808 S Linden: Large 1,2,3 and 4 person units. All Utilities Included. Next to the trail. Pool on site. Start at $345. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 TOWNHOMES: 2, 3 & 4 Bedrooms. Include Washer-dryer, central air, dishwasher, parking, patio and/or balcony, yard. ONLY $260-350 per bedroom. Class Act Realty. 454-2960
Multiple houses, 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 bedroom houses available. Off-street parking, laundry, dishwasher, close to campus, central AC, multiple bathrooms, pet friendly. 309-530-9254 or 309-664-2917. Avail now! One bdrm apartment, quiet area of Bloomington. Faculty/staff/students. Most utilities paid. No smoking/ pets. 8293647- evening. 2 bdrm studio apt. Off street parking. Newly updated. $450/mn + utilites. 2 blocks from bone center. 3098241177.
108 W Locust St. Sublesser neededSpring 2016. $590/month. Washer/ Dryer. Off street parking. Utilities included! Call 678-656-1070 Flora Way: Large Furnished 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms. Start at ONLY $325. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Houses: 3 to 5 Bedrooms. Start at $335 per person. Walk to Campus . Class Act Realty. 454-2960
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Features
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
THE VIDETTE | PAGE 7
Racism still a campus issue While many are blind to issues faced by others, it is time to acknowledge a major problem that many students still encounter MARIDSA CHOUTE Features Reporter For many people, race is a topic to avoid. For a long time, it was silenced as if it was best to stay colorblind to the issue. If you have paid attention to any current events, you know racism cannot be avoided, even on the Illinois State University Campus. “Sometimes I feel like an endangered species,” Derrick Bryant, senior mass media major, said. To students like Bryant, being a minority on campus can sometimes mean being an outcast. For Bryant, a black student, who refers to ISU as a “PWI” or “predominantly white institution,” being black on campus is cause for judgment from his peers early on. Students of different ethnicities across campus often silently deal with microaggressions and do not know what to do in situations where they feel alienated or even targeted. “I feel it’s really rare to be an Asian student,” Kayla Simon, a junior special education major, said. “And I can’t find other people like me that I can confide in about these issues.” For both Bryant and Simon, talking about race is not an issue from which they shy away. Sometimes they deal with situations that make them feel uncomfortable. “Nothing too extreme has ever happened to me, but I’ve been trailed by the police a few times. Or noticing that people watch
me closely when I go to certain places in town,” Bryant said. Simon can easily recall situations where she has dealt with microaggressions. Subtle statements have been said to her because of her race. “Whenever something like that happens, I usually just laugh it off or ignore it,” Simon said. Coming to ISU was a giant culture shock for students of different races. Even within their majors, where they should feel excited and included, they can often feel out of place. Simon, who is Filipino, knows she stands out from her classmates. “It’s weird because my high school was so diverse and people wouldn’t even give me another look walking through the halls, but when I got here, it felt like all eyes were on me 24/7,” Simon said. “Even within my major and future career, I know I stand out from my peers.” Another problem both see is that they have to worry about potential situations where they could be harmed or feel attacked, but are unsure about what to do. “I wouldn’t know where to report it if something bad ever happened,” Simon said. Bryant quickly agreed, but remains positive as he finishes his education here. “I feel like because we’ve been dealing with things like this, something positive that can come out of this is that each one of us could potentially spark change in [our] own way,” Bryant said. Simon feels it is important to
REBECCA DAVIS Features Reporter
Getty Images
As predjudice and racism are still seen at ISU, the best way to enlighten peers is to start conversations and gain an understanding of others’ lives. have student groups on campus, like several that already exist, because they gives students a chance to show and appreciate their culture. As ISU progresses toward
becoming a more respectable and diverse community, it is important to educate the public and shed light on the areas that need to be changed.
Shop local this holiday season BRENT BADER Features Reporter When shopping for the holiday season, many consumers go to the big-box stores for their gift needs, but it is important not to forget the smaller, locally owned businesses this year. Purchases there directly benefit the local community. “You’re creating jobs in the area and you’re creating tax dollars for the city,” Brian Martin, manager of Campustown Supply, said. “Those are two big things to consider.” Buying from local businesses ensures that your hard-earned dollars stay in the community. Unlike larger businesses, small local businesses tend to recycle their revenue back into the local economy, which can lead to a stronger community economy. “It helps bring revenue back into the community,” Joyce Hightower, manager of Beyond Normal, said. “Because as a small business owner we live here, we shop other places, so it’s a continuous cycle.” Aside from economic sustainability, local businesses also tend to feature product diversity. Some local stores offer products you cannot find at larger outlet stores. By buying unique local products, your gifts will
Archive Photo
Check out the local shops when looking for gifts this holiday season. Shopping local gives back to the community’s economy. likely stand out from the pack compared to generic clothes and products from other companies. Campustown Supply found its niche market with Illinois State University apparel as well as with products specifically created for other local schools. With these products, the store offers a unique line that has hollowed out a corner of the marketplace that will always be in local demand. “August is our busy time,” Martin said. “We get 22,000 students that show up [in the area]. De-
ISU alum creates local artwork
cember is also good for us; it’s a busier time of the year for us, but definitely not our busiest time of the year.” Beyond Normal also features unique work from over 25 different artists that cannot be found anywhere else. Smaller businesses also tend to understand the community better and try to be active members of society by hosting events and reaching out to community members. “Special events are huge for
us,” Hightower said, “So we do one in the spring for Ladies’ Night Out and we do one in the fall for Sugar Creek Arts Festival where we all are doing special things.” These events allow the community to get to know local businesses better and understand what shopping options are available in the area. These businesses are also used to working together to ensure community sustainability and offer a wide range of products for customers. “We all work together to try and get people in our doors so we throw a lot of special events and we try not to duplicate so that we’re all selling different things,” Hightower said. Unburdened with corporate oversight, these smaller businesses are allowed to do a lot more to reach out to the community and offer products that better reflect the communities they are a part of. By purchasing from these stores, consumers are not only guaranteed a unique product, but guaranteed they are helping the very community they support.
Comments? Questions? Follow @baderwrites on Twitter!
If you are involved in the art community of BloomingtonNormal, there is a great chance you have run into a painting by local artist and Illinois State University graduate Angel Ambrose. Her conceptual paintings have been featured in exhibitions across the county, including the McLean County Arts Center, Advocate BroMenn Medical Center and University Galleries. Part of her journey to success included a five-year art program at ISU. “A high school teacher saw talent Angel Ambrose in me and invested in me and gave me tools and time. […] She gave me supplies and let me create artwork. She’s also the one responsible for bringing me to the camp at Illinois State. That was when I received a lot of positive validation. That sealed it for me that art was a very positive way to express myself and engage the world,” Ambrose said. Following the positivity that she received in high school, Ambrose participated in a program at ISU for potential art students interested in the University. “I lived on campus for two weeks in a high school program. I studied with some of the professors, and I already knew I wanted to become an artist, but that was when I knew that I wanted to go to Illinois State,” Ambrose said. Here, Ambrose found her personal style as an artist. Working with professors at ISU and expanding her knowledge of art helped her to win ISU’s Best Undergraduate Painter award in 1985. “I have always had an interest in surrealism, but coming from a small town with little culture. I didn’t even know what surrealism was, but I painted that way. I started using objects and landscape to convey story. My artwork started to take on a narrative nature.” After her graduation in 1985, Ambrose continued her career as an artist by working on her paintings in studios located in downtown Bloomington. “I have had a studio downtown since the mid ’80s, and I have been in this studio downtown for over 17 years. I need a space outside the home. I am very distracted by things in my home, but when I am here, I am more likely to focus on things that are creative,” Ambrose said. Well aware of the difficulties young artists face, Ambrose encourages artists at ISU to find themselves during their years at school and not take criticism too harshly. “I learned to not let other people have power over me. […] I’m comfortable with who I am so I don’t allow those things to come in and take me out,” Ambrose said. Ambrose believes that art and creativity are not just for those who choose it as their major, and encourages anyone who has an interest of art to become involved. “Art is for everyone. I believe everybody has creativity inside of them.”
Sports
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2015
Survive and advance
Redbirds grind out 36-19 win over Western Illinois to advance to FCS Quarterfinals ZACK CARPENTER Sports Editor
Ugly. Messy. Grinding. Use whatever words necessary to describe Illinois State University’s 36-19 win over Western Illinois on Saturday, but the end result was the same: the Redbirds are moving on to the quarterfinals of the FCS Playoffs. Although he struggled through the air once again, ISU quarterback Tre Roberson – 10-of-23 with 132 yards and one touchdown – led the Redbirds to a second round playoff win, putting in 111 yards on the ground while Marshaun Coprich exploded for 217 yards – his third straight 200-yard rushing game and the sixth of his career. It was a game that crawled along with ISU taking a 7-6 lead into halftime that featured a pair of interceptions from Roberson, but the Leathernecks were only able to get three points out of the two combined turnovers. Coming out of the break, WIU took a 12-7 lead early in the third quarter, but the ’Birds bounced right back for a 10-play, 75-yard scoring drive capped off by a five-yard rushing touchdown by Roberson. The quarterback found Anthony Warrum in the end zone on the ensuing two-point conversion for a 15-12 lead. Roberson had another rushing score, this time from 32 yards out, on a sprint up the right sideline after he turned the corner Brett Farrell/Staff Photographer and exploded past several defenders to increase the advan- Marshaun Coprich (25) led the Redbirds with 217 yards rushing for his third straight 200-yard performance. tage to 22-12. But WIU answered with a score from QB Sean McGuire to Jaelon Acklin. McGuire, filling in for injured starter get a win.” “It’s difficult when you play a second game, a defensive game is Trent Norvell, who missed the previous three games following an Roberson took a big hit on ISU’s ensuing drive but found usually what it turns into because the defenses, a lot of times, appendectomy, finished with 341 yards passing and two scores Warrum for a 21-yard strike, and Coprich broke off a 72-yard are able to adjust from what they did last time. Our players have on 22-of-43 passing with an interception. But his performance touchdown run to put the game out of reach at 36-19 with under been in a lot of close games and have been able to pull games out was wasted in the loss. in the fourth quarter.” five minutes to play. “We got a win a football game, that’s my goal, that’s the team’s The No. 2 seed Redbirds (10-2) will now host No. 7 Richmond “This was a pretty typical Missouri Valley game but with playgoal,” McGuire said. “All the other stuff it’s irrelevant unless you off ramifications and intensity,” head coach Brock Spack said. (9-3) Friday at Hancock Stadium in the FCS Quarterfinals.
FCS Quarterfinals Preview ZACK CARPENTER Sports Editor
No. 7 Richmond (9-3) at No. 2 Illinois State (10-2) Day / Time Friday / 6:30 p.m. Players to Watch Last week was a battle of the running backs between Western Illinois’ Nikko Watson and Illinois State’s Marshaun Coprich. This week will be no different as Coprich will be looking for his fourth straight 200-yard game. Richmond’s Jacobi Green is a stud who is coming off a 141-yard game against William & Mary. Green has rushed for 1,426 yards and 18 touchdowns, both top five in the FCS. Storyline If the Redbirds play like they did for the first 35 minutes against the Leathernecks, they will be in for big trouble. They ground out a win in round two but desperately need more production and better accuracy through the air from QB Tre Roberson to advance. Prediction Illinois State 31, Richmond 17 Roberson is adamant that his broken thumb has completely healed and has been throwing without a thumb brace for the past couple games. He says the thumb feels fine, but it has yet to show up on the field. Gut feeling here says he pulls himself out of the funk he is in and pours it on.
Day / Time Friday / 7 p.m. Players to Watch Gamecocks’ Eli Jenkins showed why he was one of the top 10 finalists for FCS Offensive Player of the Year, throwing for 208 yards and rushing for 204 with three scores, including the game winning touchdown in an overtime thriller against Chattanooga last week. Charleston Southern sports a fantastic defense with several guys who came up with five fumbles against The Citadel. Storyline It will be a battle between one of the best defenses in the nation in Charleston Southern’s unit and an elite JSU offense. CSU is coming off a defensive slugfest against The Citadel while JSU wrapped up an offensive explosion over Chattanooga. Prediction Jacksonville State 42, Charleston Southern 21 I said last week the winner of the Chattanooga-Jacksonville State game would be going to Frisco. No change this week as JSU will handle the CSU defense and breeze through to the Semifinals.
Colgate (9-4) at Sam Houston State (9-4) Day / Time Saturday / 7 p.m. Players to Watch Sam Houston State’s sophomore QB Jeremiah Briscoe came off the bench to lead the school to victory in back-to-back games. Briscoe has shown he is more than just a serviceable replacement, and if he gets thrown into the fire again, he should do just fine. Colgate is led by the pair of QB Jake Melville and RB James Holland, who each racked up over 160 yards rushing in last week’s upset over James Madison, although Melville struggled in the game. Storyline With each team coming off an upset, it should be another tight battle to see who moves on to the final four. Expect to see a lot of work from the ground game on both sides. Prediction Sam Houston State 35, Colgate 24 Colgate has one of the worst defenses in the nation, and Sam Houston State should be able to exploit that on Saturday. Even though Colgate escaped with a thrilling win over James Madison last week, do not expect the same type of win this round.
Northern Iowa (9-4) at No. 3 North Dakota State (10-2) Day / Time Saturday / 11 a.m. Players to Watch North Dakota State uses a power run game with a plethora of running backs led by a bulking offensive line. RB King Frazier is the main guy out of the backfield, but several others can perform. UNI is led by University of Illinois transfer QB Aaron Bailey, who gets it done mostly with his legs as a dual threat weapon. Storyline In a playoffs chock-full of rematches, this is probably the most exciting one. UNI let a huge upset slip through their fingers when they let NDSU score a game-winning touchdown in the final seconds to take a pulse-pounding 31-28 thriller back on Oct. 10. Prediction North Dakota State 35, Northern Iowa 14 It was an amazing game the first time around, but it is going to be the exact opposite this time. The Bison will roll to an easy win to set up a highly anticipated game with Illinois State in a rematch of last year’s FCS Championship.
Atrocious Hancock attendance
No. 8 Charleston Southern (10-2) at No. 1 Jacksonville State (11-1)
MY VIEW JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor It could not have been a more perfect day for playoff football. The No. 2-seeded Illinois State University football team ground out a 36-19 FCS playoffs second round win over Western Illinois Saturday afternoon in front of an abysmal Hancock Stadium attendance of 6,124 fans. It was a glorious, sunny December day with game time temperatures reaching 40 degrees, minimal winds and not a cloud in the sky. The scene couldn’t have been set any better for a playoff showdown featuring the second best team in the country hosting in-state rival WIU, yet the Bloomington-Normal community and ISU students could not show up and fill even half of Hancock Stadium, which holds a capactiy of 13,391. ISU holds the best home winning streak in the country, a perfect 19-0 since the renovations to Hancock Stadium in 2012. Since then, the Redbirds have claimed two consecutive MVFC Championships and were the 2014 FCS runner-up. The ’Birds boast one of the most dangerous quarterback/running back duos in the country in Tre Roberson and Marshaun Coprich, a star studded defense, five 2015 All-MVFC players (Coprich, Pat Meehan, Mark Spelman, Anthony Warrum, Roberson) and one of the three finalists for FCS Offensive Player of the Year (Coprich). Despite all of these accolades and the high quality product being produced on the field, the FCS playoff see ATTENDANCE page 6