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Mitsubishi task force remains optimistic Local and Mitsubishi officials continue to seek a buyer for the automotive plant nearly half a year after announcing its closure. Despite several potential buyers, the plant remains difficult to sell. BRENT BADER Senior Reporter
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a two-part series revisiting the Mitsubishi plant closing and its impact on the community. It has been six months since Mitsubishi Motors North America announced the closure of its local plant, and in that time, local officials and Mitsubishi officials have been working to find a buyer for the plant. “This is a long-term project and we’re still optimistic about the amount of activity we’re seeing,” Kyle Ham, chief executive officer of the Economic Development Council of Bloomington-Normal, said. In the new year alone, Ham said the plant has received four inquiries, and visitors have toured the building to assess its condition.
Why is the plant a difficult sell? While the plant continues to receive attention from anonymous manufacturers through the use of site collectors, it also continues to be a difficult final sell to the many manufacturers considering it. “It’s a 2.4 million-square-foot
facility, so the range of companies that might be interested in that sort of facility are fairly narrow because it’s huge and sits on 700 acres of ground,” Mark Peterson, City Manager of Normal, said. Additionally, the manufacturers must take into account the costs to retrofit the building to meet their specifications, as well as to move any additional material or machines from one location to the Normal plant. The size and the shape of the plant specifically met the needs of Mitsubishi, and finding a similar manufacturer is proving difficult. “This is a very unique property,” Ham said. “I would probably say there’s not too many like it in the entire country, let alone the world.” Once a buyer is secured, the facility could see an additional one or two year process to begin operating to the new manufacturer’s specifications.
Who is working on the sale? Ham and Peterson are part of a local task force that was assembled shortly after the announcement of the closure of the plant. The task force is broken into two halves, with one focused on the efforts to sell the plant and the
The Mitsubishi task force still seeks a buyer for the plant after months of searching. other centered on assisting displaced workers with finding other employment opportunities. The group joined together in order to pool resources and assure regular focus on the plant’s closure. They meet regularly over conference call once a month. “It’s a large contingence of local officials and leaders that can be a
resource to Mitsubishi as they go through this process,” Ham said.
How much longer could the sale take? The current six month window does not seem that unusual to the task force, as it has been shown that similar sales have taken two
Morgan Kuniej | Photographer
to four years, and the wait could continue for a while longer given the complexity of the sale. “Selling this type of facility is not like selling a family home that might be on the market for 90 days,” Peterson said. see MITSUBISHI page 3
Marijuana dispensary to open this spring in Normal Local officials predict low demand and minimal impact from new dispensary NATHAN PENN Political Reporter
Normal will soon be home to a medical marijuana dispensary. The Denver Colo. based marijuana retailer, The Green Solution (TGS), is expecting the dispensary on Northtown Road in Normal to open this April. Although the dispensary is the only location at which to buy medical marijuana in the sixth police district, Normal Mayor Chris Koos does not expect patronage to be high. “A lot of doctors in the BloomingtonNormal area are not anxious to prescribe medical marijuana,” Koos said. “The supply side is much stronger than the demand side.” Town of Normal City Manager Mark Peterson expects the dispensary to have a small impact on the town’s economy. “It’ll have some minimal impact on our sales tax,” Peterson said. “But we don’t expect to have any significant impact.” Twenty marijuana dispensaries are licensed to operate in Illinois, with 2,815 unique patients. A TGS spokesperson told The Pantagraph that the company expects the Normal dispensary to serve 500 patients. Peterson thinks that the low number of
Tracy Conoboy | Photographer
A marijuana dispensary will open this spring at the former Curves location, 501 Northtown Road. patients will result in a small staff at the dispensary. “Dispensaries typically employ five to 10 people,” Peterson said. “Depending on the circumstance and the size, I assume it will probably be a low of five, a maximum of 10.” Peterson said the Town of Normal did not aspire to be home to a dispensary. “The Green Solution came to us and
submitted a proposal to the state of Illinois with this site,” said Peterson. “We did not encourage any marijuana cultivator or retailer to locate in our community.” Peterson suspects that the town’s population and its central location in the sixth police district made it an attractive place for TGS to open a dispensary. The Illinois Medical Cannabis Pilot
program went into effect in 2014. As of 2015, 23 states have some form of a medical marijuana program. Koos trusts that the medical marijuana laws in Illinois are enough to prevent corrupt activity by dispensaries. “It’s one of the most stringent laws I’ve ever seen in terms of security and accountability of the product,” Koos said. “So I don’t see it as a problem.” To be eligible for a medical marijuana prescription in Illinois, a person must suffer from one of the qualifying conditions: Alzheimer’s disease, lupus, HIV/AIDS and Parkinson’s disease are among the ailments that qualify a person for medical marijuana. Gov. Bruce Rauner’s administration announced Friday that Illinois will not be expanding the list of conditions that qualifies someone for medical marijuana. The decision goes against Illinois’ own Medical Cannabis Advisory Board. It recommends eight conditions be added to the list of ailments that qualifies someone for medical marijuana: autism, irritable bowel syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, osteoarthritis and several pain-related conditions. As of today, only about 4,000 people have been approved medical marijuana licenses.
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
State unemployment up, Blo-No stays steady The low 5.4 percent rate reflects the area’s business-friendly atmosphere EMA SASIC News Reporter
For the first time in seven years, Illinois has ended a year with fewer jobs than it started with. According to a press release from the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES), Illinois’ nonfarm payroll employment lost 16,300 jobs and the unemployment rate was 5.9 percent in December. This makes the state’s unemployment rate higher than the national rate of 5 percent. Ron Payne, manager of work force analysis and dissemination for the IDES, explained that certain industries had the highest rates of unemployment from November to December. “Of those jobs, the largest loss was in the trade, transportation and utilities sector and most of that was in the trade part, which includes retail,” Payne said. “It’s the largest super sector industry in the state because there are a lot of stores. I doubt that there was much loss in the transportation sector, since you see a large demand for truck drivers in the state.” The Bloomington-Normal area was tied with Urbana-Champaign for having the lowest rate of unemployment in the state at
5.4 percent. “Blooming ton-Nor ma l has historically had a low unemployment rate compared to the state,” Normal Deputy City Manager Pamela Reece said. “I think the fortunate thing about the Bloomington-Normal economy is the insurance and financial sector as well as higher education. Illinois State, Illinois Wesleyan, State Farm and Country Insurance are relatively stable employers.” Although the Normal Mitsubishi plant ended production in November, Reece said that no unemployment increases have surfaced in data yet. “The Mitsubishi plant closing does present some challenges, but at this point, I don’t think we have seen any numbers yet,” she said. “It is a concern because our elected officials and stakeholders in the community want to make sure we have employment opportunities for the Mitsubishi folks and anyone looking for employment in town.” One effect unemployment has throughout the entire state is on tax revenues, specifically income tax. With fewer people working in the state, less tax money will be coming in. “On some programs, they’re going to have less money to work
with because when employment goes down, you have less revenues on all fronts, not just the tax front,” she said. “When you have however many people lose their jobs at the Mitsubishi plant and you lose that income into the community, it’s going to have a trickle-down effect on many other businesses in the area. You’re losing out on disposable income and that’ll affect businesses.” Reece said in order to keep Bloomington-Normal’s unemployment rates down, the area needs to generate new businesses so that college graduates stay and start their careers here. “I think there’s been quite a bit of investment, discussion and time spent on nurturing new businesses, business incubator ideas and finding new ways to support entrepreneurship,” Reece said. “I think that helps because when we start developing small businesses, over time they can become large businesses.” Payne also thinks making the state more business-friendly overall will help reduce unemployment. Ema Sasic is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_esasic@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ema_sasic.
Is the sale still likely?
continued from page 1
As the sale continues to take longer and longer, the task force remains optimistic about their chances despite the growing number of disinterested parties. “I am optimistic, maybe not as much as I was initially, as I hoped somebody would ride in on a white steed in shining armor and gobble up the plant,” Peterson said. “Well that didn’t happen right away but I still remain optimistic because it’s a well-maintained plant.” While the plant’s unique size may dissuade a large number of manufacturers, there are still quite a few attributes that interest manufacturers. “It will take time,” Ham said. “But we remain confident that we have a nice asset in our backyard and we will eventually find someone to use it.”
“I would also hope that it wouldn’t take multiple years, but it’s possible.” Peterson hopes to find a buyer sooner rather than later, as the speed of the sale could determine an overall interest in the location. “Once you get two or three years down the line then probably it’s going to be more difficult to find a buyer,” Peterson said. “So I think it behooves everyone to find someone as quick as possible.” One of the facility’s selling points is its physical condition. The 30-year-old facility is relatively young in car manufacturing years. Peterson remains confident that Mitsubishi is determined to keep the facility in good condition and will regularly maintain it after the last couple hundred manufacturing employees leave for the final time in April or May. “I don’t think its value will diminish drastically over time,” Peterson said.
Look for the second part of the series in Thursday’s ’Bird. It will focus on the efforts of the half of the task force looking to assist the displaced workers.
NEWS IN BRIEF National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to host class NAMI will host a class called NAMI Family-to-Family beginning Feb. 13. The class is 12 sessions and emphasizes family healing and provides insights into the profound distress experienced by families and close relatives
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PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
Students maintain Redbird pride during budget crisis
I
llinois’ universities have been struggling to make it through a full year without a state budget. It is a constant battle between trying to stay active and stay stable. Though the hassle is not as difficult for Illinois State University and University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign (UIUC), smaller schools — where enrollment has declined and alumni are not as vigorous — feel pain that is much more severe; these universities have experienced a plethora of layoffs, had to cut funds for athletic programs and degree programs face consolidation as well. Many schools have also dipped into their cash reserves to make up for the lack of incoming money. Eastern Illinois University (EIU) announced last week that it is considering layoffs and leave time for university employees, as it has not received its state appropriation of about $40 million, and University President David M. Glassman said it would be very difficult to make it through a full year without state money. Despite the rumors, EIU is still up and running; however, the University has been using
tuition dollars and cash flow to keep the school stable until the impasse is settled. Glassman has also halted equipment purchases, delaying maintenance and employee travel to compensate. The budget has also heavily impacted Western Illinois University (WIU), and its board has agreed on employee reductions. To avoid this problem next year, WIU is hoping to reduce its spending by around $10 million for the next fiscal year.
Because of higher enrollment, UIUC and ISU have been able to withstand the Illinois budget battle between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democrats, who control the legislature with minimal disturbance. With the Illinois budget in a crunch, positions go unfilled, technology is not upgraded and construction projects are pushed back. EIU, WIU and even Northern Illinois University have felt most of the heat because of Illinois’
as long as we can, but they deserve to know what the potential long-term effects are.” Luckily, ISU has a support system that seems to be working well during this crisis. Dietz, along with other university officials, have clearly been very frugal with spending, as there has not been any immediate or critical impact on students. However, if the impasse continues through the end of the semester, the next year may be a more difficult one for ISU. For now, we have to thank our strong alumni system that continues to support the university. Without its generous donations, ISU may be facing similar issues to Eastern and Western. Although it may seem like there is nothing we as students can do to help, simply being aware and supportive of ISU and other Illinois universities will make the process go more smoothly for those involved. Whether the budget is distributed in three days or three months, ISU will continue to put its students first. Cuts may be made in various departments, but that does not mean our Redbird pride should be Editorial Cartoon by Athena Tapia cut, too.
lack of budget, but other universities will be in the same boat if the impasse remains unsettled. “It’s very difficult to run any of the universities for essentially a third of the year not knowing what your budget is going to be,” ISU President Larry Dietz said. “We often hear, ‘Why don’t you run the university like a business?’ Well, I don’t know any business that doesn’t know what its revenue stream will be. We’re trying to hold students harmless
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.
Give yourself a digital detox this year MY VIEW EMA SASIC Vidette Columnist
F
or whatever reason, we have increasingly become too attached to our technology. We use our phones for everything—for emails, text messages, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and anything else in between. While our phones and tablets let us stay connected to the world around us, we can’t seem to put them away even if we’re spending time with our friends and family. Instead of cherishing precious moments with them, we flat-out ignore them most of the time by
gluing our eyes to our screens. We all need to put in some effort so that when we’re with the people we love the most, we don’t push them away to the side. I’m not the only person who has noticed this problem. Back in October, photographer Eric Pickersgill took pictures of people doing everyday things with others, like laying in bed, watching television or eating dinner. What really made these pictures stand out is how he removed the smartphones and tablets from every picture. The project, named “Removed,” was an effort to show just how addicted we all have become to technology. Instead of looking at each other during dinner, we look down at our phones, totally unaware that there is someone sitting right across from us. Obviously there’s no need to get rid of technology, since it pro-
vides many benefits to our lives. However, when we’re hanging out with friends or sitting down for a home-cooked meal with our family, there should be no phones in our hands. One rule my friend and I have established is that we don’t use our phones while we’re eating lunch or dinner. Even though we see each other every day, we always have something new to share. Without using our phones, we can actually hear what the other has to say. We also make sure we don’t have anything distracting us because we’re not going to be able to see each other as much next year. We know that our separation is coming, so we try to spend as much time as possible together, free from distractions. Not only do I put my phone away when I’m with friends, but an unspoken rule while I’m with
everyone’s meal. Another strategy people use is putting their phones in their pockets instead of in a backpack or purse. When you don’t physically feel the phone on your body, you have an easier time keeping your hands and eyes away from it. Technology is a big part of almost any situation you find yourself in, but one place it doesn’t belong is in your special time with loved ones. Show them that you care about the time you spend together by taking a break from the virtual world. Ema Sasic is a sophomore journalism major and columnist for The Vidette. Any questions or comments regarding her column can be sent to vidette_esasic@ilstu. edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ ema_sasic.
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my parents is that I try to use my phone as little as possible. As an only child, I have always been very close with my parents. Now that I’m in college, I still have a strong relationship with them, and being away from home for a month at a time can be difficult. As a result, when I get to spend time with them, my phone is usually nowhere in sight. If I waited a whole month to get back home, why would I want to miss out on the time we have together? It makes those moments even more memorable and valuable. Sometimes it might be hard to engrave in your brain that you can’t use your phone when you’re with people, but making a competition out of the task makes it all the better. Some groups put their phones in the middle of a table, and the first person that reaches for their phone has to pay for
Do you think you could go without your cellphone for an entire day?
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE Redbird Rumble: To President Barack Obama for announcing his return to Springfield next month to address lawmakers regarding the budget. Obama will speak in the state Capitol on Feb. 10, marking nine years since he announced his candidacy. Redbird Rumble: To Netflix for reviving popular TV drama “Gilmore Girls.” Although announced in October, the streaming service confirmed Friday that four 90-minute episodes will be featured, with several returning main characters.
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Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Rumble or Fumble? To ISU for banning
hoverboards in the residence halls and dining centers for safety reasons. Students have until Wednesday, Feb. 10 to get their hoverboards out of their dorm rooms, but they can still use them for transportation around campus.
Redbird Rumble: To the Student Government Asso-
ciation for encouraging ISU students to join the “It’s On Us” campaign to stop sexual assault on college campuses. The pledge can be taken on itsonus.org.
VIDETTE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY The Vidette welcomes letters to the editor, provided they are no longer than 250 words and are typed and double-spaced. Letters that exceed the 250word limit can be published at the editor’s discretion. Letters must be signed and contain the major of the writer, the year in school, address and a daytime telephone number for verification. Letters sent via e-mail to: vidette@ilstu.edu are accepted, provided they include a telephone number for verification.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
Mother Murphy’s brings a taste of hippie history to Uptown Normal REBECCA DAVIS Features Article
Tucked away above the shops in Uptown Normal is Mother Murphy’s, a unique store that is known for its pipes, tapestries, music and locally made items. Students who frequent the store are probably familiar with its owners and Illinois State University alums, Mike and Becky Williams, who openly greet every customer upon their arrival. But the history of Mother Murphy’s is almost as old as the smell of incense that has been burning in the building since 1968. Mike Williams started associating with Mother Murphy’s in 1979, when he became an employee. He worked his way to becoming manager of the business for five years before eventually accepting ownership after the founding members of the store retired and he graduated from ISU. “Becky and I bought the shop in 1990,” Mike Williams said. “We’re just carrying on the tradition that started in 1968. The opportunity was there, and I felt like it was a viable business.” Like any other successful business, Mother Murphy’s kept up with its customers and always had items in the store that were relevant to the interests of the time. From leather goods to vinyl to tapestries, the shop has always acknowledged the demands of those who shop there.
Tracy Conoboy | Vidette Photographer
Mother Murphy’s owners Mike and Becky Williams have kept the shop to its loyal customers’ liking since taking it over in 1990. “The original people that started Mother Murphy’s, Betty and Charlotte, started in the height of the hippie-dippy era, when head shops and incense and water pipes
all kind of came around for the first time,” Mike Williams said. Today, Mother Murphy’s works with nearly 40 different local artists to fill their
location with original handmade goods. People in the area make many of the knitted goods, glasswork items, candles, tie-dye and jewelry in the store. A couple of years into owning Mother Murphy’s in Uptown, the couple decided to try a new venture and began to run a second business in a new location. “We opened a second enterprise in 1992, Shockwave Skateboards, and Becky ran that in downtown Bloomington, while I stayed here to run Mother Murphy’s, and we had two businesses going,” Mike Williams said. While the need for a skateboard shop in the area was evident, downtown Bloomington was not attracting the right kind of shoppers. Soon after, Becky and Mike decided to incorporate their skate shop into Mother Murphy’s and they designed the shop to include both businesses. While the store has seen many changes, including layout and types of goods carried, one thing that has remained the same is the importance of positive customer service and building relationships with the people who come into the store. “This store has a homey feeling,” Becky Williams said. “We’re all family here, and we’re not in it for the money, just to be a part of the community.” If you find yourself in Uptown Normal, stop in at Mother Murphy’s to check it out.
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Tracy Conoboy | Vidette Photographer
More and more companies are offering student loan repayments to their employees.
Students seek companies with student loan repayment EMA SASIC News Reporter
Many college students worry about how they will pay off their student loans when they graduate. Now, many companies are starting to take that burden away from employees. More and more companies are offering student loan repayments because they see it is an important benefit they can offer to recent college graduates for the next 10 to 20 years. “Students across the country have taken on a larger percentage of student debt to finance their education, and based on a lot of studies done with recent college graduates on what they look for and what’s important to them, they are looking for employers that will help them pay back debt,” Student Relations Associate Director Mike Minton said. “Many grads aren’t able to put aside money for 401Ks because they’re using that money for their debt, so that’s made employers recognize that that’s what candidates are looking for.” Associate Director of the Financial Aid office David Krueger said
Illinois State University graduates on average have $22,500 in student loans. Although the default rate is 2.8 percent, much lower than the national average of 11.8 percent, graduates still understand having a repayment service is important as they start their careers. Not only does student loan repayment benefit employees, but employers also get a bonus from it. If students receive job offers from companies that offer the repayment service, they will be more inclined to accept positions with those companies rather than those that do not. In addition, these employees will want to stay longer with the company since it will help them pay off their loans sooner and it will put them on solid financial foundation much faster. Pricewaterhouse Coopers, the global consulting and accounting firm that recruits at ISU’s Career Center, recently announced employees will be eligible to receive as much as $1,200 a year for six years toward their student loans. According to its website, the company’s student loan paydown plan could help reduce one’s student loan principal and interest by $10,000 and
shorten the payoff period by up to three years. Some companies in the Bloomington-Normal area are in conversation with Peanut Butter Inc., a Chicagobased benefits administration firm that helps companies provide unique student loan benefits. Although adoption has been slow, Head of Partnerships at Peanut Butter, Inc. Andrew Bordewick said more companies are expected to adopt the benefit in coming years. “Millennials want this benefit and employers are recognizing that this is the most important employee benefit they can offer for the next 10-15 years,” Bordewick said. “There is a huge need, with over $1 trillion in student loan debt held by American workers, and that balance increases as the cost of college tuition continues to increase.” “I’m really encouraged that entrepreneurs, companies and politicians are putting good ideas to work and finding ways to help ease the burden of student loans,” he added. Ema Sasic is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_esasic@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ema_sasic.
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PAGE 6 | SPORTS | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
Redbird Gymnastics Trumps UIC Two first-place finishes help launch Illinois State University’s gymnastics team into victory DEBORAH BETHEL Sports Reporter
This Sunday’s home gymnastics dual meet against University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) ended in a victory for ISU. Alumni gymnasts were invited to watch the meet, and they did not leave disappointed by the effort the Redbirds put in. After dominating all of the events, ISU won with 194.175 against UIC’s 191.450. In some earlier meets, the team had fallen short in key events. For this meet, however, the team hit all of the events perfectly. “I knew this team was capable of doing what they did today all season, but today was the day they finally put it together. They hit all of their events, which hasn’t happened yet this season. I couldn’t be happier,” head coach Bob Conkling said. Senior Amanda Mohler helped the team earn points with her two first place finishes on vault and beam, scoring 9.825 for both. Adding on points were Marie Priest with three third-place finishes and Samantha Ward and Sarah Fisher, who tied for first place on floor. Coach Conkling hopes their performances today gives them confidence to keep nailing their routines the next time they hit the mats Friday, Feb. 5 in Denton, Texas, and beyond.
MORGAN KUNIEJ | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Amanda Mohler and the Redbirds defeated UIC on Sunday.
Deb Bethel is an international business major and a sports reporter for The Vidette. Any questions or comments regarding her article can be directed to debethe@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter @thedebbethel.
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Today’s Birthday (02/01/16). Collaborate for change this year. Spring eclipses (3/8, 3/23) provide a lucrative surge and direction changes. A financial growth phase shifts toward two years of travels and studies (after 9/9). Autumn eclipses (9/1, 9/16) incite a windfall to your shared and personal accounts. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Stay focused to expand your territory. Imagine a project completed. Resist the urge to splurge. A hidden danger could arise. If it goes against your grain, turn it down. Lies are revealed. Notice your dreams. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Move quickly to grab an opportunity. You can
make it happen together. Someone interesting has your attention. Hold on to your money. Good things are worth waiting for. Commit to an inspiring future. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Put energy into work today, despite chaos. Provide excellent service. There’s an opportunity to advance. The more you learn the better you look. Verify the investment of time and money before compromising. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Tap hidden assets. Make the changes you’ve been contemplating. Don’t run away from it, despite strong impulse. Don’t get talked out of what you want. Say what you’ve been holding back. Take bold action.
CLASSIFIEDS Sublease Subleases available! www.sami.com (309) 888-4600
For Sale New queen pillow top mattress set still in plastic can deliver $200 3098388923
Help Wanted- Business Opportunities GOLF EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Member Services/Bag Shop/Cart Attendant. Looking for motivated, energetic, self-starters willing to interact with the membership on a daily basis. Light physical labor/morning, mid-day, afternoon shifts/ seasonal March-November parttime to full-time/work with professional staff with daily golf operations/must have some weekday morning availability/ fulfilling staff requirements by March 1st. For application information call Mark @ The Bloomington CC Pro Shop, 309-829-6166. Gymnastics Instructors and Ninja Sport Instructors Wanted! We have openings for gymnastics instructors as well as instructors for our newest program - Ninja Zone (no experience required Think American Ninja Warrior!) in the area’s largest, best equipped gymnastics facility, Rising Stars Academy. We are
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Focus on family interactions. Find ways to support each other. Work interferes with play. Try and try again. Dig deeper for a solution. Find a hidden treasure. No splurging. Enjoy simple comfort foods together. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Clean up messes. Others want fast action, but you’d better slow down or risk an accident. Accept another’s generosity graciously. Provide leadership. Take decisive action. Send someone else ahead. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) — If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Work takes precedence. Increasing productivity gives you more time off afterwards. Avoid gossip or
controversy. Don’t gamble or rely upon fantasy. Explore streets you seldom visit. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) — Full speed ahead to meet a deadline. A rush job pre-empts scheduled programming. Work quickly, but carefully. The neighborhood provides what you need. Friends keep you headed in the right direction. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) — A roadblock or unexpected expense stalls the action. Stick to the truth. Don’t jump to conclusions. Pay bills before buying treats. Practice frugality. You won’t have to defer gratification forever. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Assume responsibility. Address an uncomfortable
situation head on. Begin a fresh page. Emotions could run high. Stand in compassion, for yourself and others. Listen to another view. Get much needed rest. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) — Old assumptions are challenged. Strike out in a new direction. Make a creative plan. Get tools and supplies together. Do the jobs that pay best first. Peace and quiet soothes short tempers. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — Teamwork leads to victory. Concentrate intently. Expand in the direction of least resistance. Toss out the superfluous. Consult with experts, friends and family. Bring a dream image into your external environment.
Phone 309 438 7685 • Fax 309 438 5211 Corner of Locust & University, Normal, IL Monday – Friday. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
looking for mature, dependable, highenergy individuals willing to work with children of all ability levels. Experience is preferred, but not required as we will train the right individuals. Background check and references are required. Email resume to karin@risingstarsacademy. com or print off application online and drop it off at 2902 Gill Street, Bloomington 61704 (off of Airport Road). www.risingstarsacademy.com Landlord assistant: Leasing agent + light maintenance, cleaning, easy painting. Excellent hourly wage, 10-15 hours per week including weekends. Work experiences, references are essential. High GPA preferred. Resume to endeavor1812@msn.com
Help Wanted- Food & Drink OZARK HOUSE RESTAURANT Experienced broiler cook, FT/PT. Tuesday-Saturday evenings. Apply in person. 704 McGregor Bloomington OZARK HOUSE RESTAURANT Now hiring servers, host/hostess, bartenders, and bussers. Apply in person. 704 McGregor Bloomington
Miscellaneous Professional Model Photography facebook.com/ModelsUSA 3092121005 scottrockandroll@icloud.com
Roommates Wanted
For Rent: Su/Fall/Sp 16-17
Apt avail at The Lodge for SU/FA/SP 16-17. 2 roommates needed for 4 bdrm apt. Own floor, own bedroom & own bathroom. $695/mo (utility allowance included). Call Tyler @ 815-757-3390.
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
For Rent Spring- 2016
$245 for 3, A/C, dishwasher, deck/patio, laundry. Heat & water pd, 6 blocks north on School St. from ISU (309)287-1870
Various 1,2, 3 and 4 Bedrooms and some single rooms available. $235$555. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Need an apartment now? We have apartments and rooms for spring 2016. www.sami.com 3098884600
Help Wanted- General Spring break week help & 2nd semester. Before/after school program is looking for staff during ISU spring break and/or for the semester. Apps can be picked up at the Normal Parks&Rec office, or call 454-9721 for more info!
For Rent Fall 16/Spring 17 Franklin Park Area, Bloomington. 1.3 miles to ISU. 3 blocks to downtown. Very quiet, non-smoking, charming, affordable. Studios, 1 or 2 bdrms starting at $425. Call 309-242-1925. Leave detailed message. Pictures can be texted.
Large 2 BR. Apt. For 2. $365/person,
406 Dewey Ave: Spacious 4 bedroom, 1 bath, dishwasher, parking, laundry. All utilties included. Close to ISU. Starting $370/bedroom. 309-827-5686 One Unit Left! 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. $530/per person. Call Excel Real Estate at 309-829-5885. Crossing Dr. Large 3 Br/2 Ba townhome. W/D $307-$367 per person. 309-8305073. See www.RLapartments.com Crossings 3 bdrm 3 bath townhome. With washer and dryer. Available June 2016. Call 3098262012 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
Flora Way: Large Furnished 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms. Start at ONLY $325. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 301 S. WALNUT: Furnished 2 Bedrooms. Balcony, Covered parking, Laundry. Quiet Building. Start at ONLY $290 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 Fell: Spacious 2 & 4 Bedrooms. 1 block from campus. Laundry. Start at $370. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 2 bdrm studio apt. Off street parking. Newly updated. $450/mn + utilites. 2 blocks from bone center. 3098241177. Houses: 3 to 5 Bedrooms. Start at $335 per person. Walk to Campus . Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Room for rent 1106 S. University Street Normal. $350 w/shared bath. $550 w/ private bath. Month to month OK. 773505-8682. qa_elizabeth@yahoo.com
Features
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
THE VIDETTE | PAGE 7
Technology in the classroom Professors find that it can both help and hinder students’ learning CASEY CHAN Features Reporter
Universities across the country are always looking to use the best technology possible to enhance their students’ learning abilities. These technological advancements have done wonders for the classroom environment, but at the same time, they have taken away from some of the more traditional aspects of teaching. Most of us have had classes at Illinois State University that have taken place in a computer lab at one point or another. The question is whether those computer labs and all of the technological teaching methods within our classrooms are more beneficial for students than not. There are many programs and services that can only be accessed through technology, but then there are methods and practices that can only be achieved through traditional learning processes used by the professors here at ISU. Assistant Professor Cochece Davis believes the classroom environment is the most beneficial setting for learning. “Given my experiences in the classroom, I would say the benefits of entitativity and an emergent free flowing discussion is more likely in a classroom rather than on a discussion board,” Davis said. Davis suggested the bond created in a classroom setting is one that is next to impossible to duplicate with just the use of technology.
Dan Baranowski | Vidette Photographer
Some teachers are set on using old methods instead of new technology, which can hinder students’ learning. Peers can ask each other for help while in the classroom rather than waiting for a response on a discussion board or through an email, and a professor can gauge the pace at which he or she should teach so that everyone learns the information accordingly. There are plenty of benefits to using technology, though. By familiarizing themselves with technology, students are able to access resources and information they might not find in a textbook. Programs such as Adobe InDesign have given us the opportunity to create documents like brochures and posters with greater ease than 20 years ago. With so much emphasis on
desktop publishing software, the role of the professor has changed as well. Professors now assume the role of facilitator, as they are no longer the main source of information since many of these programs are necessary in the careers that each student is working toward. The most dominant technological change in the last 20 years has been the Internet. It provides teachers and students with resources and information from all over the world; databases such as the Oxford Journals and our own Milner Library database give students and staff a wide range of academic journals to use. Associate Professor John Huxford also gave his opinion
on the use of technology in our classrooms. “I am a great believer in having a hybrid of old technology and new technology,” Huxford said. Huxford suggested that technology can be a great aid when used correctly. “It’s not about the technology itself, but how you use it. Everybody benefits if technology is used well, but the students lose the most if it’s used badly.” While the technology that ISU integrates into its learning system continues to benefit the students and faculty on campus, administrators must be careful not to overspend on technology – plenty of other school programs, such as extracurricular activities and athletics, need funding as well. In some cases, there are teachers who are not as familiar with technology as the students they teach. This can lead to a slower learning process and information that is already familiar to students. For teachers to overcome technological avoidance, they simply have to utilize the resources around them to keep up to date with the latest technology implemented in our classrooms. The Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology here at ISU is great for those who are trying to become more technologically educated. If teachers and students are able to utilize the technology in our classrooms efficiently, both parties will have a simple yet effective learning process.
Working to pay for an education: a struggle known to many students GIANNA ANNUNZIO Features Reporter
Though most students divide their time in college between classes, studying and having new experiences in their leisure time, there exists a demographic that takes part in an additional responsibility. Alongside their academics, several students also take on working to pay for necessities like tuition, textbooks and rent. Some are even employed in more than one place, like senior recreation management major Zachary Kerby, who works two jobs on campus. Kerby says both of the jobs help him afford school a bit more, therefore allowing him to take out fewer loans. As his first job, he works for the College of Education as a student IT worker, putting in about 20 hours a week. “As a student tech, I fix computers for the college and help people out with technologyrelated questions,” Kerby said. “[My tech job] is an hourly wage job, and it helps pay my rent on my apartment. My equipment job pays itself in tuition credits, like a half scholarship.”
For his second job, he works as a student equipment manager for the Illinois State University football team, and his hours range from about five to 30 a week depending on the season. “I help out the coaches at practice with drills, I help with laundry and equipment with the team and help the team travel to their away games,” Kerby said. Although he works hard, Kerby says there are still hardships that occur when working while being a student. “It is difficult sometimes to have to pay rent with the money I earn and also pay for groceries and luxury,” he said. “But I have helped to reduce my tuition by enough that my parents are often able to make ends meet for me when I need luxury money.” With the amount of hours required for his on-campus jobs, it is inevitable for any working student to run into times of heightened stress. “Working can interfere with academics from time to time, but when that happens you just have to dig deep and take care of responsibility,” Kerby said. “Sleepless nights and cramming for finals come with the
territory when you want to have a degree and be successful beyond college.” Although managing the professional, academic and social aspects of college life are a hectic trifecta, Kerby asserts it is worth it in the long run. “Working to afford tuition is something I think everyone should be involved in,” he said. “I like doing it to help build experience and working knowledge for the future. I do however, think
some people take it for granted when parents pay for most or all of it.” Similarly to Kerby, working students should remain hopeful when the going gets tough and remember the light of graduation at the end of the tunnel. “For other students, I would just suggest that managing your time and remembering why you’re at school—to earn a degree and learn something— is what is most important.”
Group fitness classes to try at the Rec Insanity
This high-intensity training class is designed to be a full cardio workout and is taught by a certified instructor. Insanity will kick your butt and get your whole body toned.
Barre
The Barre dance inspired fitness class aims to maintain form and precision while also developing core strength and balance. But don’t worry, knowledge of dance or previous dance experience is not required.
HardCORE
This class is a nonstop 30-minute workout to strengthen your core muscles. Be prepared to feel sore to the core for days afterward.
Cycle
Cycling offers an indoor biking experience that focuses on raising your heart rate and strengthening your lower body. There are several levels of riding classes available and even a black light ride to add some excitement with bright colors and black lights.
Total Body Strength
This is a full body workout to increase your muscular strength and includes the use of strength equipment. This class may test your physical fitness more than some of the others.
Lower Body Burnout
This 30-minute class focuses on training your lower body. Whip your butt into shape with this hard hitting class.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing is a high intensity aerobic workout trained to push your cardiovascular system into high gear. With lots of jumping, kicking and punching, you’ll get out your anger and your energy in this 45-minute class.
TRX
TRX is a suspension system used to train your body as a whole and increase your flexibility and speed. TRX will be hard at first, but will show the results with some practice and hard work.
ZUMBA
This Latin-based fitness craze will help you get a great cardio workout while dancing to high-energy music. Bring some friends and have a dance party that will not even feel like a workout.
Yoga
Yoga helps to build strength, increase flexibility and find focus through controlled breathing. It can be a great way to relieve stress with relaxation and breathing.
Fusion
This class combines yoga and Pilates to help you develop strong muscles. This can also be a great way to end a workout; do some cardio and finish with the Fusion class. Jenna Kadziulus | Vidette Photographer
Many students take schooling for granted, while others have to find jobs to pay their way through an education.
Compiled by Rebecca Davis | Features Reporter
Sports
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2016
Stevens appreciating life across the pond JASON KLAER Senior Staff
There appears to be an increasing amount of foreign-born athletes in the NCAA. According to thesportsdigest.com, 40 percent of scholarships were awarded to international athletes in 2011 from among the top 25 women’s tennis teams in Division I. For the Illinois State University women’s basketball team, only one player was born out of the United States. Freshman guard Amelia “Millie” Stevens hails from Surrey, England, a count y which borders London to the southwest. Stevens stood out to ISU, and Illinois State was one of the main Millie Stevens schools on the map for the 6-foot combo guard. “I loved the opportunity that was presented to me with the Redbirds; the fact [that] a new team was being
developed and I had a chance to start something here was exciting,” Stevens said. Stevens knew she would be one of the new faces who stuck out, considering she is the only international player on the roster. Millie wanted to be able to get her collegiate career started in a positive direction. “Being able to begin a new journey and make your mark was important for me because I wanted to leave a positive impression and open the door for future British women’s basketball players,” Stevens said. Barb Smith and the rest of her staff were another factor in the selection process. Atmosphere is key to Stevens, which is why Bloomington-Normal was an ideal nesting spot. “I really loved the coaches and how they initially reached out to me while I was choosing a place to play. All of the staff had genuine personalities,” Stevens said. “This area is perfect for me size-wise and there [are] things to do and it is just not too daunting.” Back in England, Stevens was a dominant force on the hardcourt for the Sevenoaks Suns of the Women’s British Basketball League (WBBL). The Great Britain Performance
Manager named Stevens the most valuable player of the 2015 National Cup Final. In the game, Stevens netted 19 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the Suns’ 62-59 victory. Although Stevens is one of the up-and-coming British players, basketball does not have as strong a foundation as it possesses in the U.S. “At the lower end basketball is not run through the schools. It is all club ball due to the popularity of the sport,” Stevens said. “Basketball is developing for women, and because of this you have to travel around in order to find a team that will work for you. For over the age of 18 there is a developing women’s basketball league, but that does not serve as much of a platform.” Stevens has been able to maintain a busy schedule, juggling classes and traveling. However, there is something she misses most from her homeland. “Being away from my family has been the toughest transition for me,” Stevens said. “But if we are talking about places, I miss going up to London a few times every month. There is always something going on and it is just a diverse community which is great to explore.”
Adjustments are eminent when taking on a different lifestyle and culture. Dorm life is an aspect of college Stevens is not used to. “I never prepared myself to share a room with another person. Back home there are halls and everyone receives their own room,” Stevens said. “So far, so good, but it did take some getting used to.” Being immersed in the American culture for the past seven months, Stevens’ favorite memory so far is an annual Illinois State tradition. “[I] Loved homecoming weekend; I never experienced a football game and was able to witness all of the fans and supporters cheer the team on,” Stevens said. “A unique feeling was brought upon myself, and I realized I was a piece of something larger than the sport itself and a part of the family that is Illinois State.” Stevens and the rest of the Redbirds are in the thick of the Missouri Valley Conference season. Friday, ISU will host Indiana State at Redbird Arena. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. Jason Klaer is a senior journalism major and sports reporter at The Vidette. He can be reached by email at jmklaer@ilstu.edu and found on Twitter @JasonKlaerISU.
Men’s basketball consistently inconsistent Bears clip ’Birds, 84-81, in OT thriller JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor
Archive Photo
Despite a team-high 18 points from DeVaughn Akoon-Purcell, the Redbirds dropped an overtime thriller to Missouri State on Saturday.
A season full of inconsistency was on full display again when the Illinois State University men’s basketball team fell to Missouri State in an 84-81 overtime loss Saturday afternoon. “That’s a tough loss,” senior DeVaughn Akoon-Purcell said. “That one hurt a lot.” Riding a three-game win streak into Saturday’s game at JQH Arena in Springfield, Mo., the Redbirds’ (12-11, 6-4 MVC) loss to the Bears (9-13, 5-5) was one of the worst of the season for ISU. The Redbirds were unable to hold on, despite boasting a six-point lead with under a minute left in regulation and a seven-point overtime advantage. After jumping to a quick 9-2 lead at the 16:13 mark of the first half, the Redbirds gave up a 7-0 MSU run, which was stopped by a Justin McCloud 3-pointer. ISU struggled to maintain the lead for the remainder of the half as it surrendered several more runs by MSU. After battling back and chipping away at the deficit, the Redbirds eventually regained an advantage in the second half while continuing to go back and forth with the Bears. With ISU leading by four points and just 40 seconds remaining in regulation, MSU coach Paul Lusk and the Bears bench were both assessed Technical fouls, giving the Redbirds two free throw attempts and possession of the ball. Sophomore forward Deontae Hawkins missed both attempts. “We got tight,” ISU coach Dan Muller said. “When you turn the ball over like that two times in a row and miss two free throws by one of your best free throw shooters.” Junior guards Paris Lee and Tony Wills then had two crucial turnovers in the last minute,
which allowed the Bears to stay in the game. MSU guard Dequon Miller hit the biggest shot of the game, a 3-pointer from the top of the key over Wills, tying the game 72-72 with 2.2 seconds and forcing OT. Miller was no stranger to converting clutch shots this season with two game winners already in his pocket. In OT, the Redbirds again jumped out to a quick start and held a seven-point advantage. The Bears battled back relentlessly as ISU squandered the lead and game. With ISU down 82-81, Akoon-Purcell beat his defender but missed a point blank lay-up with just four seconds remaining, which would have been the potential game winner for the Redbirds. MSU’s Jarred Dixon then hit two FT’s padding the Bears advantage 84-81. Akoon-Purcell missed a three-point attempt as time expired. Akoon-Purcell finished with a team high 18 points and nine rebounds. Hawkins finished with 15 points (6-of-10 FG). Sophomore MiKyle McIntosh finished with 16 points but was unable to play during the OT period after fouling out in regulation. The Bears and Redbirds committed an identical 16 turnovers. Miller finished with a game high 22 points for the Bears, shooting 6-of-10 from 3-point range. “We just lost a game that we had against a very tough team that made plays we didn’t make,” Muller said. “We’re big boys. We’ll be all right.” The Redbirds hit the road again against Loyola on Wednesday evening. Tipoff against the Ramblers is set for 7 p.m. Josh Tolentino is a junior journalism major and sports editor at The Vidette. He can be contacted at jtolent@ilstu.edu and followed on Twitter @JCTSports.