INSIDE:ISU survives nailbiter at Missouri State
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017 Vol. 129 / No. 41
Lynch talks life at ISU EMA SASIC News Editor | @ema_sasic
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ctress Jane Lynch is no stranger to audiences worldwide. She starred in Fox’s hit show “Glee” and has had roles in “The 40-YearOld Virgin,” “Wreck-It Ralph” and “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.” Before she became an Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG awardwinning actress and this year’s honorary doctoral degree recipient, Lynch was a theatre major at Illinois State University. Although she felt many of the same pressures and insecurities students face today, she still views her time on campus as some of the “most glorious moments” of her life. Prior to returning for Founder’s Day on Thursday, Lynch caught up with The Vidette to discuss what life was like for her while at ISU, the major influences on her acting career and what she is most looking forward to when she visits Normal.
You’re no stranger to winning awards based on your acting achievements, but now you will be the recipient of ISU’s honorary doctoral degree. How does that feel? Wow. Well, let’s see. I think the main thing for me is that I get to go back to ISU. It’s wonderful to have the award and I’m glad I’m going to meet a lot of people and walk around the campus. I’ve won a couple of awards in my past as you mentioned, but when you’re sitting there looking at an award, the award doesn’t do the thing. It doesn’t give you juice. It’s the event and the celebration. It’s not just a celebration of me, obviously it’s a celebration of this great school and the fact that it’s thriving, so for me that’s what feels great and what sticks out as being the meaningful part.
How would you describe your acting career thus far? That’s a wide-range question. Here’s the deal: I don’t step outside of myself so often and assess my acting career. I don’t slap labels on it — I’m this kind of an actor or that kind of an actor — I don’t have goals like “now I need to do this” and “now I need to do that” in order to have a holistic career. I really just sit back, relax and take action when I feel I’m supposed to, so I’ve always kind of been that way. When I was younger at ISU and in my earlier career, I took a lot of action, I took a lot of steps. I didn’t say “no” to many things, I said “yes” to almost everything, and that’s kind of been what keeps me happy and that way, nothing really means too much. It kind of rips the drama out of life; I save the drama for the stage and screen. It makes me peaceful and happy, so that’s how I would describe my career in those 900 words. see LYNCH page 2 Photograph by Brian Bowen Smith
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Jane
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LYNCH continued from page 1
It all started back at ISU’s School of Theatre and Dance. Can you talk a little bit about what your life was like as a Redbird? Well I never thought of myself as a Redbird, and I rarely think of myself as Jane Lynch [Laughs]. Back at ISU, I would say that I was a mess of insecurities. Maybe like a lot of people there, but for me it felt like I was more of a mess of insecurities than anybody else, and I think it’s common for kids that age to feel that way. I had a lack of entitlement, I was surprised every time I was invited to a party, I was surprised every time I got cast in a play and I was always negotiating with my psyche to feel better [laughs]. On the other hand, I also see myself as I had this will and I had something inside of me that was confident and it means that just given the right set of circumstances I could flourish and those circumstances didn’t seem to be coming my way as far as I was concerned. There was something in me that stuck out. You deal with rejection in theater much more than you do with acceptance. If I wasn’t invited to be in a play, I kind of went out and I found people and became friends with a lot of people and we’d do things on our own, so that’s kind of been the secret to me staying happy doing this. I love it, I’ll do it anywhere for any price, and that means free which I’ve worked for free probably more than for money. It means that it’s all about people, having fun and making something together.
Many students can relate to this question, but how did you know you chose the right major?
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I actually have a very good story about that. My mother didn’t want me to major in theatre. She said there’s no way you can get a job in theatre. She said, “why don’t you major in mass communications. It’s theatre adjacent.” Okay. So I went to my first day of registration, I couldn’t even get into mass communication 101, so I took a theatre class instead. Without my mother knowing, I changed my major in the middle of my sophomore year. In the theatre department, they had this program called a tuition waiver and you could audition and they’d pick their handful of students for whom they would waive their tuition. So I auditioned for that, I got it and so I was able to go home to my mother and say, ‘Number one, my tuition is waived. Number two, I’m a theatre major’ [laughs].
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My mother was always one of those people who told me to learn how to type. That I would need something to fall back on. And I kind of wish I had taken her advice because I’m a terrible typist now. Our phones are all about typing.
We know you graduated with a degree in theatre, but what was your least favorite subject in school? Anything other than theatre really. I loved history. I had to take chemistry, and I passed by the hair of my chinny chin chin. I’ve got to admit, I cheated on the final test. I also took a Spanish class my senior year and I did not go once. I’ll probably tell the story at my speech how I got out of that.
Do you have any specific favorite memories when looking back at your time at ISU? As much as I was a mess of insecurities, I had some of the most glorious moments of my life. I loved being on campus. I loved the collegiate-ness of Illinois State. I loved the Quad, I loved the old buildings. I loved getting up in the morning and go-
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
ing somewhere to get coffee. I loved going to class, I couldn’t wait. I would lay my clothes the night before. I loved going to the bars. It’s one of the most youthful experiences there in spite of my psychological challenges.
After you graduated from ISU and Cornell University, what were some of the next steps you took to get your acting career off the ground? Well I don’t ever take steps like that, so I want to get you off of that trajectory. I don’t look at life as steps. I look at it as staying as firmly as you can in the moment and seeing what rolls to your feet and acting when you feel the impulse to act. I wrote a memoir, “Happy Accidents,” ’cause none of it made any sense. I would try stuff here and I would say yes or no, or I would try myself over there and I would say yes or no and I usually said yes. There are no steps; if you’re looking for a formula, forget it. Let it go now while you’re still young.
You’ve worked with many different creative geniuses during your career — some that come to mind are Ryan Murphy and Judd Apatow — I’m sure they’ve all had some type of influence on your acting style. Definitely Ryan. Ryan loves extremes, and I love extremes, and that’s why I think we kind of hooked up together and worked together so well. I make huge, ridiculous choices and he loves that, so that’s where we come in.
Who are some of the professors at ISU that you remember said something that has guided you through your career or that maybe you continue to use this day? At ISU I had Jean Scharfenberg, who was a big teacher then and she took us through the method, which if you like steps go through the method, and like all good techniques you have to throw it away. She was really good that way, but she was also a really big personality. She did not pay much attention to me and I remember it hurt my feelings and I thought, ‘Oh I’m not good for Jean Scharfenberg to pay attention to,’ and that’s kind of how it’s been for me throughout my life. I don’t really get people who pick me out and go ‘Oh, you!’ Nobody ever did that, and I don’t know if it’s good or bad, but that’s where it goes. I didn’t really get close to many of the teachers there. I didn’t know them that well. I would say Alvin Goldfarb, I consider him a friend still. He was not that much older than us at the time, and I loved theatre history, so I loved that class. I remember Al said ‘If I say it three times, it’s on the test’ [laughs]. So, I always remembered that.
As one of our notable alums, you come back to campus every so
often. Not too long ago you filmed a recruiting video with us. Do you find it very important to come back here and why? I haven’t been back since 1982, I filmed that thing in Chicago. I was doing a show in Chicago over the summer. I don’t think going back is important, but it’s not something I do to see where it all started. That also assumes there’s a trajectory to people’s lives and there just really isn’t. But I was invited to do it and I was so excited to do it. I’m excited to be in Normal again and to be on that campus, I hear it’s changed a lot. All of that is exciting, but I don’t think it’s important to go back. I don’t have that kind of personality. I’m not a booster or active alumni. But that’s with anything I do. When I was done with “Glee,” I forgot all about those people, and they forgot all about me. It’s funny because I still do see them. Becca Tobin lives across the street, Kevin McHale lives up the street, Chris Colfer lives around the block, so I see them all the time.
What advice do you have for students of all majors while they’re still in school and after they graduate? Don’t have a plan. Just do your best in the moment, enjoy your classes. If you’re not enjoying them, I mean if something’s challenging, step up to it, but if it’s not something you really love and you’re doing it because ultimately you want to make a lot of money, you’re going to end up unhappy. The best strategy is no strategy. You have to pick your classes and you have to figure out how you’re going to run your day, but ultimately just be open to what comes your way. I thought I had to always have a plan. I was always writing out goals and saying I was going to do this, this and this. I just completely let it go out of frustration at some point in my life and the world opened up to me. Things started rolling in at my feet. People that weren’t supposed to be in my life anymore went away, and the people I hadn’t been casting my gaze upon suddenly showed up. I think that’s the most important thing I would tell someone. Don’t write out ambitions and goals.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
FOUNDERS DAY 2017
Four professors to receive creative awards
EVENTS SCHEDULE Loyalty Circle Coffee
8 a.m.–10 a.m. | Prairie Room of the Bone Student Center
Refreshments will be provided to Loyalty Circle donors
Bell Ringing Ceremony
10 a.m. | Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center
John McHale, Amy Gilreath, Joe Amato and Kristin Carlson will be honored for their work in the arts
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The community will be able to join President Larry Dietz and others in recognizing special individuals
STATE Showcase 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center
ALI RASPER | News Reporter | @AliRasper4
Showcase is the time to appreciate the history of Illinois State University
rofessors John McHale, Amy Gilreath, Joe Amato and Kristin Carlson were awarded Illinois State University’s Outstanding Creative Activity Award and will be honored during Thursday’s Founders Day celebration.
McHale is a professor in the School of Communication and started teaching at ISU in 2002. “I love learning with students. I feel blessed for opportunities for interaction with students helps me grow as a thinker and a writer. I am blessed to be in a situation in which my creativity John McHale and my teaching/learning are symbiotically supportive,” McHale said. “The more I teach, learn and share, the better writer I can become. I Amy Gilreath am grateful for tremendous support from campus leaders, fellow faculty and students.” McHale has written four screenplays and television pilots and produced or executive produced 10 documentaries/films and 11 shorts, all of which have helped him receive the Outstanding University Creative Activity Award. “I felt humbled, honored and supported when I heard about this award. It came at good time for me. It inspired me to devote most of the winter break to co-write a new film script, ‘Heartland in the Hood,’” he said. “It is about a Nebraska farmer, dedicated to traditional American family values, who struggles to hold his family together as they go broke and lose the family farm but inherit a corner store on the south side of Chicago.” Gilreath is a professor in the
School of Music who is no stranger to putting on performances with her musicianship and her artistry. Receiving the Outstanding University Creative Activity Award was meaningful to her. “I was humbled and very honored to learn that I would be receiving this award,” Joe Amato she said. “I even shed a few tears in excitement over the announcement.” Gilreath is most known for her performances in chamber enKristin sembles and large Carlson ensembles at the regional, national and international arena. Amato is a professor is the Department of English and has been with ISU since 2003. “I would think the books I’ve published - novels, poetry, memoir – had a lot to do with the award,” Amato said. Amato has published nine books: a chapter book, a memoir, poetry collections, several works of literary theory and criticism as well as five screenplays. The final professor, Carlson, is a creative artist and uses her choreography and performing arts in her works. Her skill and interest in technology has helped her along the way as well. The professors will be recognized at the Convocation at 2 p.m. Thursday in the Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center.
Founders Day Convocation #1
2 p.m. | Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center
Actress Jane Lynch is the recipient of this year’s honorary doctoral degree. Other professors will be recognized for their work at ISU
Alumni Awards Dinner 6 p.m. | Alumni Center
After the Post Convocation Reception, this ceremony celebrates alumni and their outstanding accomplishments COMPILED BY MALLORY LOVINGS | GRAPHIC BY NICK BUEGEL
STATE Showcase displays exhibits throughout ISU CLAIRE WEINZIERL News Reporter | @ClaireWeinzierl
Illinois State University’s history and academic mission will be highlighted at the STATE Showcase during The Founders Day celebration this year. The displays will be featured from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday in the Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center and are open to all Founders Day attendees. Representatives with exhibits from various colleges, schools and departments will also be presented at the STATE Showcase. The ISU community will commemorate the 160th anniversary of its founding at The Founders Day celebration. Students and faculty from all over campus are eager to participate in the festivities lined up for Founders Day. “It’s a great day to honor the history of ISU and showcases the past and present accomplishments that Illinois State has achieved, both on students and to the world,” said Kenyon Jodlowski, junior agriculture education major. More information about the STATE Showcase 2017 can be found by contacting University Events at (309)-438-8790.
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PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Bachelor franchise learns a lesson in diversity
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fter Monday’s episode of “The Bachelor,” a new air of diversity was felt throughout the nation. For the first time in the nearly 15 years since the franchise’s introduction in 2002, a black woman has been named next season’s Bachelorette. A major revelation in the industry considering neither “The Bachelor” nor “The Bachelorette” has featured an African-American lead; this shows the possibility for an entirely new Bachelor world. Though it is encouraging to read of this update, it is also important to note how sad it is that the franchise took so long to finally diversify. Granted, contestants are often from varying backgrounds and this trend has been going on for a handful of seasons now. However, this does not diminish the fact that the Bachelor franchise has been heavily populated by white, attractive, upper class leads that leave little to no room for diversification. The next Bachelorette, Rachel Lindsay, 31, is currently a contestant on “The Bachelor” where she vies for Nick Viall’s
heart. Spoiler alert: this clearly means that Rachel is not this season’s lucky winner. This lawyer from Texas may stop the Bachelor criticism for now, but this should not be the end of “The Bachelor” updates. A show that is watched by an absurd number of Americans twice a year with successful spinoffs like “Bachelor in Paradise” cannot stop at simple
diversification of one black lead. Rather, it should take its stance and use it as a way to express acceptance to all races, genders and sexualities. Why stop at Rachel? We should be encouraging the franchise to bring in more unique leads and contestants than the perfectly polished Barbie and Ken dolls we see paraded on our TV screens each week. Ye, this
focus should not be placed only on Bachelorettes, but also for Bachelors. We should see members from different races as the center of attention, and possibly a season devoted to a LGBTQ individual. With this sort of inclusion, our nation may be more willing to accept change. In an interview with “Good Morning America,” Rachel was
asked whether or not she was nervous to play the role as the first African-American lead. Her response? Flawless. “I’m honored to have this opportunity to represent myself as an African-American woman and I just hope that people rally behind me like they did in Nick’s season. Even though I’m an African-American woman, it’s no different from any other Bachelorette.” Rachel is an independent, beautiful and incredibly smart woman: the perfect person to accept the role as the first African-American contestant. Not only for her standing but for her grace and kindness in contrast to what is primarily a very “ratchet” reality series. There is hope that Rachel can change more than one thing about this franchise, but this inclusion cannot all rest upon her shoulders. She may be the facet for which we receive this information, but we must be the eager and accepting audience willing to incite change, diversity and inclusion in a show that has been based on plastic figures for way too long.
Editorial Cartoon by Ashley Brown | Vidette Editorial Cartoonist
Editorial written by MARY CULLEN, a member of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Editorial policy is determined by the student editor, and views expressed in editorials are those of the majority of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Columns that carry bylines are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Vidette or the university.
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Who should have won Album of the Year at the Grammys?
#GrammysSoWhite? MY VIEW KEVIN SCHWALLER | Columnist Even Adele thought Beyoncé should have won the Grammy for Album of the Year over herself at the 59th Grammy Awards Sunday. While winning five awards would usually be celebrated, Adele quite explicitly stated Beyoncé should have won for her album “Lemonade.” “I can’t possibly accept this award, and I’m very humble and I’m very grateful and gracious, but my artist of my life is Beyoncé and this album for me, the ‘Lemonade’ album, was just so monumental,” Adele said in her acceptance speech. “And so
well thought out and so beautiful and soul-bearing and we all got to see another side to you that you don’t always let us see and we appreciate that and all us artists here adore you.” I’ll just say it: I am undeniably a die-hard Beyoncé fan. While I love Adele as well, I applaud her for devoting her speech to Queen Bey and breaking her gramophone trophy in two so that she could share it with her. Adele’s “25” is an incredible piece of work. It sold slightly under 10 million copies in the United States alone. However, “Lemonade” was a movement, whether you enjoyed it or not. Everybody was talking about it – Beyoncé put every card on the table, celebrating her AfricanAmerican roots while juggling infidelity, sexism and racism. From the controversial “Formation” performance at last year’s Super Bowl to Sunday
night’s performance channeling an African goddess, Beyonce’s “Lemonade” era is her most artistic and politically charged to date. The problem is, an artist of Beyoncé’s magnitude could simply release a handful of poppy breakup songs if she wanted to, but “Lemonade” took guts and the Recording Academy still went the traditional route. But Taylor Swift can (and does) release a handful of poppy breakup songs, and won the prestigious Album of the Year award – not once, but twice – for reasons unbeknownst to me. The last African-American artist to win Album of the Year was Herbie Hancock in 2008 – but the album was a cover of Joni Mitchell songs. Since then, there seems to have been a pattern for album of the year: A white artist winning over an artist of color.
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE Redbird Rumble: To Illinois State University Mennonite Col-
lege of Nursing, which achieved a 94 percent pass rate on the national nursing licensure examination for 2016.
Redbird Fumble: To Gov. Bruce Rauner, whose budget address
Wednesday accomplished nothing. Democratic lawmakers even openly mocked the Republican governor during his speech.
In 2016, Swift’s “1989” won over Kendrick Lamar’s “To Pimp A Butterfly,” another socially conscious album. A year before that, Beck’s “Morning Phase” took the Grammy over Beyoncé’s self-titled album. In 2014, Daft Punk won over Lamar. Mumford & Sons won over Frank Ocean in 2013. Not only is Beyoncé Album of the Year-less; Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Kanye West, Rihanna, Jay Z, Mariah Carey, Diana Ross, Tupac and Jimi Hendrix are somehow not in the exclusive club either. According to The Daily Beast, only 10 African-American artists have an Album of the Year award, including Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Whitney Houston. Wonder is the only artist who won the award more than once. With the Academy Awards being accused of shafting actors
of color in previous years, you would think that the Grammys would try to avoid viral campaigns like #OscarsSoWhite. But after the outcry on Twitter over Beyoncé’s infamous loss to Beck and Lamar’s loss to Swift, the Recording Academy almost seems to be asking for #GrammysSoWhite. When the artist who wins Album of the Year uses her acceptance to admit she believes she doesn’t deserve it, it’s a pretty big red flag that the Grammys have become out of touch with the times. Hopefully in the near future, the Recording Academy will catch up with Beyoncé and other immensely talented artists of color. Kevin Schwaller is a news reporter and columnist for The Vidette. He can be reached at vidette_kschwal@ilstu. edu. Follow him on Twitter @ kevschwa.
Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Rumble: To John Oliver for returning on-air Sunday on
his show “Last Week Tonight” educating and entertaining audiences on an important topic: President Trump’s relationship with the truth.
Redbird Rumble: To the Muslim Student Association at Illinois
State University, which held a peaceful rally Wednesday on the Quad encouraging love and peace.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Legislators respond to Rauner budget address EMA SASIC News Editor | @ema_sasic
Avery Rainwater | Vidette Photographer
In light of recent events, the Muslim Student Association at Illinois State held a peaceful rally to stand in solidarity.
MSA hosts peace rally TIFFANY MORRISON News Reporter | @MorrisonTiffany
Building on momentum from rallies held not only across Bloomington-Normal, but the world and speaking out against U.S. government and politics, Illinois State University’s Muslim Student Association held a protest Wednesday. MSA members along with peers held a peaceful rally 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Schroeder Plaza. At one point an estimated 50 to 60 students were participating in this movement. MSA created the rally in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order banning the admittance of refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries into the U.S., along with all immigrants, green card and student and work visa holders. Although there is now a hold on the ban while it sits awaiting Trump’s decision to appeal to the Supreme Court, MSA felt the need to address the situation and acknowledge that international students are not only welcome at ISU, but invited. The group wanted to raise awareness and to prevent Islamophobia. “We have a lot of international students from Iran, Turkey … and they’re already here, so obviously, they’re safe but they were worried,” MSA President Atif Hussain said. “If they wanted to go to their home country for spring break, will they be able to get back in? They shouldn’t feel that. No one should feel that because of where they come from or what they believe.” During the rally, MSA encouraged others to ask questions or spark conversation about Muslim culture so they can educate others and let the community feel more comfortable with the Muslim population. The organization feels that because of mainstream media, Islam is put in a negative light. Its goal is to change that. “The ban is not only morally wrong, but I think also, to look at it pragmatically, it harms America economically and harms security,” MSA Secretary Jake Stern said. “I think the rally was pretty special; there were a lot of people always passing through so there was never a time where we didn’t have people out here acknowledging our
presence. It showed that we were here in solidarity to stand together as one.” Chants varied throughout the rally, from “no hate, no fear, immigrants/refugees are welcome here” to “All lives matter,” “Somalian lives matter,” “Black lives matter” and more. MSA Events and Fundraising Coordinator Ahmad Mshaiel, a blind, Muslim student, had a personal outlook on what the ban meant for him. “To me, being disabled is very difficult. You know, it’s already hard enough and I shouldn’t have to hold this kind of fear that’s being created around the religion of Islam and it’s up to me as an Islam-American to go out there and prove that we are good people. I’m sick of being fearful for my mother and sister going to the store to potentially get attacked,” Mshaiel said. Mshaiel’s passion is to hopefully encourage others to always make friends with people of diverse backgrounds to learn about different cultures and ideologies. “This country was built on immigrants, so we shouldn’t be contradicting our founding fathers and the foundation of the United States. Bringing in immigrants has brought so much innovation to the U.S.,” Mshaiel said. Hussain was elected president this year and even though MSA has been on campus for a while, he calls this the “new generation” of the club. “I made it all-inclusive, I made it (so) anyone can join and I really want to get out there. It’s important to have diversity and I feel that ISU is so friendly and open to learning new cultures and listening to others’ beliefs. I try to talk to other RSOs to get to know them and to try and create collaboration with others,” Hussain said. MSA’s first collaboration is with the ISU Hillel Jewish Student Union Tuesday for a dinner at the Religious Center. It will also be hosting Islamic Awareness Week, a nationally recognized event, which will feature events focused on educating others. The association has other events throughout the semester to bring people together and enjoy each other’s company. For more information or to keep updated on upcoming events, check out the ISU MSA Facebook page.
Following Gov. Bruce Rauner’s budget address Wednesday, several members of the Illinois General Assembly, United States Senators and Representatives have responded with mixed views. Rauner told lawmakers he is open to raising taxes on services like car repairs and haircuts. During his speech, several Democrats laughed when he criticized “pointing fingers or assigning blame.” However, others are more optimistic about Illinois’ future. “I agree with the governor that we must work to create jobs and growth in Illinois. This is going to take real reform. The Senate is going to continue to work on those reforms such as business reforms, workers compensation, education funding and property taxes,” State Sen. Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) said in a statement. “We also need to focus on passing a balanced
budget with cuts and revenues that are in the best interest for all of the citizens of Illinois.” While Brady is pleased with Rauner’s encouragement to work on legislation filed in the Senate, he still sees issues that need to be negotiated. If there is no action taken, Illinois will have a $5.3 billion deficit at the end of the current fiscal year. There is also a backlog of $11 billion in overdue bills. House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) said it seems as though Rauner “has failed to introduce a balanced budget” for the thirdstraight year. “We want solutions that address the challenges Illinois is facing right now. We continue to urge the governor to join us and pass a full-year budget that provides for the needs of middle class and struggling families, cares for the elderly, invests in our schools and keeps our communities safe.” The current fiscal year ends June 30.
Features
PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Not In Our Town has been rallying in various areas against deportation and the Muslim countries immigration ban. Michelle Carrico Vidette Photographer
Not In Our Town pushes positivity, proactivity Organization expels racism, bigotry while celebrating diversity JAKE PLAUTZ Features Reporter | @JakePlautz
“We stand against bullying, racism and hatred. We support those who feel marginalized,” Karen Schmidt, an alderman in the City of Bloomington, a university librarian at Illinois Wesleyan University and a member of the Not In Our Town anti-bullying and anti-hate group, said. Not In Our Town is a local organization that promotes diversity and compassion, especially celebrating the fact that Bloomington-Normal’s community is “richly diverse.” The grassroots campaign started in 1986 in light of nationwide hate crimes against minorities. The nation and group are now working against the newest setback of the time: Trump’s ban against the U.S. immigration from citizens of Sudan, Libya, Yemen, Iraq, Syria, Somalia and Iran. Schmidt said the actual number of members in the group is hard to calculate given the lack of a formal mem-
bership process. Having said that, its Facebook page has over 1,500 members. And it keeps growing. “Since the election, and especially since the executive order banning travel from seven Muslim-majority countries, our Facebook group numbers have skyrocketed,” Schmidt said. Much like the rest of America, Donald Trump’s decision to ban entrance from certain countries led Not In Our Town to act. Schmidt said that on Feb. 1, the organization held a solidarity rally in which members wrote postcards to their elected officials. Over 1,200 people showed up, all of whom were given a three-day notice. It also hosted a Muslim support event last summer in the McLean County Museum of History. The group does much more than setting up rallies, though. It reaches out to local businesses to stop discrimination at the lowest level, visits local classrooms to support anti-bullying and asks neighborhood leaders to help promote its message. Schmidt said that its greatest
accomplishment is “bringing people together in a proactive and positive way to fight discrimination and bullying, and to support the rich diversity in our community.” Not In Our Town is officially controlled by a committee of chairmen from its programs like Not In Our Schools and Arts and Culture. The group also partners with other social justice groups in Bloomington-Normal such as Black Lives Matter and Stand Up For Social Justice. Recently, Schmidt said they co-sponsored the “No Matter Where You Are From” yard signs campaign. Schmidt said the group has no official events coming up soon, but that it is working with the Human Rights Campaign to help support the LGBTQ community. To join the group, you can go on the Not In Our Town website and sign its pledge. It asks you to act against intolerance and bigotry, to stop hate and to provide an inclusive community. Those who join, as Schmidt put it, “lend a strong voice to our values in Bloomington-Normal.”
Division of Student Affairs enhances ISU lifestyle REBECCA MONACO Features Reporter | @rebecca_monaco
C
oming to college means making the best experience possible in a timespan of around four years. Luckily at Illinois State University, achieving just that with the help of the Division of Student Affairs is as easy as can be. ISU is known for its high levels of student involvement. The Division of Student Affairs is an organization that promotes, supports and strengthens the lives of student involvement in the Redbird community. The Division of Student Affairs primarily focuses on five core values: integrity, compassion, creativity, diversity and relationships. With these values, they are able to attract students of all demographics to get involved with the school that is a second home. There is a club, organization or Greek chapter out there for every student. Sometimes students come to school and do the very least when it comes to involvement and school spirit. For some, just going to class, getting homework done and taking exams is enough. Even if this is the sole purpose of attending college, it does not mean that it is the only way to attend college. “Being involved with your school can change your perspective incredibly. Before getting involved, I was a robot and just went to class and did homework and studied. I found myself very lonely and started to question if I had made the right decision in coming here. After joining a couple clubs and enhancing my Redbird life, I soon realized what I had been missing out on. I met so many new people and was excited to leave my apartment for something other than getting food,” junior fine arts major Jacqueline Connor said. While interacting with as many students as possible, the organization strives to influence campus culture. Lots of student engagement such as giveaways, programs and activities are commonly hosted. A well-known event occurs bi-annually, known as Festival ISU in the fall semester and Winterfest in the spring semester. Friday’s are known as “#FearTheBird,” where red is worn throughout campus to show school spirit. Vice President of Student Affairs Levester Johnson has over 30 years of experience with student affairs and leadership. He is also an expert in social media and how to use it to engage community throughout campus. His Twitter is recognized within NASPA’s Leadership Exchange magazine and bachelorsdegree.org’s “25 College Presidents You Should Follow on Twitter”. “Regardless of how you interact with the Division of Student Affairs, I want you to know that we care about you as an individual and want
Monica Mendoza | Senior Photographer
Getting involved in RSOs is a great way to make new friends and build up a resume.
you to be successful. Make the most of your Redbird life and remember, it’s a great day to be a Redbird.” Johnson said.. One of the many opportunities student affairs offers is the Lifestyle Enhancement Program. This program provides different practices available to all students, free of charge. Practices include Yoga, T’ai Chi and Meditation. The Division of Student Affairs also interacts with the Student Fitness Center and offers occasional massage sessions throughout the year at McCormick Hall. This not only grabs students’ attention, but it also takes students in a building they may have never explored before. Simply by getting students to explore the campus, the Division of Student Affairs accomplishes its goals. “Being involved on campus has definitely enhanced my Redbird life. I’ve been able to meet so many different people that I would have never gotten to meet if I wasn’t involved with ISU outside of my studies,” freshman social work major Graciela Hernandez said.
ISU celebrates 160 years EMILY GRIFFITH Features Reporter | @emilygriffy
Illinois State University will celebrate its 160th birthday Saturday. Although the university was founded on Feb. 18, 1857, the Founders Day celebration and observance will take place Thursday. President Larry Dietz said, “It’s a full day to take a look back, reflect on the institution, take pride in our long and distinguished history and to look forward to what we’re about to accomplish the next year and beyond.” Founders Day is also a day to honor the many achievements by ISU’s faculty, staff members and students. Each year, there are a number of awards given out for teaching and research. This year’s honorary doctoral degree will be awarded to Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Lynch from the class of ’82. During Founders Day 2017, ISU will honor such traditions as the Bell Ringing Ceremony and Convocation. In addition, the institution will be showcasing its academic colleges and departments that provide support for the university and its surrounding community. Director of Media Relations Eric Jome said, “Back in 1995 is really the beginning of Founders Day activities as we think about today, such as the Bell Ringing and the Convocation ceremony.” While the first Founders Day was held in 1909, the tradition did not really kickoff until 1913 with a full slate of events to honor Charles Hovey, the university’s first president who serve from 1857 to 1861.
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THE VIDETTE | FEATURES | PAGE 7
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Renewable energy major prepares students MARIDSA CHOUTE Features Reporter | @MaridsaWrites
Think of a major that combines aspects of business, politics, economics and engineering into one; a major that is not well known but has about 50 students currently enrolled in its program. What pops into mind? Think of its industry — one that is rapidly growing and creating jobs across the country. It utilizes solar and wind energy to provide electricity while working to create a cleaner, greener environment. ISU’s renewable energy major prepares its students careers that could help them make a difference in the lives around them and all over the earth. “The major is universal and the skills we learn are applicable everywhere because energy is in everything,” senior Andrew Stetter said. “We can learn to understand how to power devices like your laptop, but do so in a sustainable way.” The program started at ISU in 2007 and was the first college renewable energy program in the country, but sometimes to its students like Stetter, it seems like it’s stuck in a corner. “Think about how many people go here, how much money we pay; how much of an impact universities have, giving us the ability to learn, yet it feels like we’ve gone without acknowledgement and advertisement in the ten years that this has been established on campus,” Stetter said. Because of its size, the renewable energy major currently has one lab in Turner Hall, but students like Stetter and graduate
What attracted both Tozzi and Stetter to major in renewable energy was the importance of the subject matter and wanting to make an impact while becoming prepared for their future careers. “For a while, I was really stuck on engineering and wanting to do that, but then I remember my mom asking me what I wanted to do that would have an impact, and then I heard about renewable energy and knew it was right for me,” Tozzi said. Currently, Tozzi is in his last semester in graduate school studying project management and hopes to become a site manager in the solar industry and oversee solar projects around the country. Majoring in a subject that is so hands-on Anna Gallagher | Vidette Photographer sets Tozzi apart as he believes that once The RE lab in Turner Hall is a great source for he is done with school, he will be able hands-on experience with solar panels. to find a job and start a fulfilling career. student Peter Tozzi hope that the program For Stetter, the environment has will continue to grow in the years to come. always been interesting and important to “I would love for everyone to know what learn about. After spending a couple of years the major is and I want to see it grow more. at Harper College in Palatine, he began to The lab used to be so small, but now looking think about what was important to him and at it, it’s grown with solar panels,” Tozzi said. other people. A friend sent him the informaStetter has the same hopes for the pro- tion for ISU’s program and Stetter knew that gram. He said that he would love for it to this campus would be a great fit for him. grow from 50 people now to 500 in the Beyond college, Stetter hopes to speak future. He also stressed the importance of about renewable energy and its importance having more people educated in the field. so that programs can expand. As of right “The topics are relevant and pragmatic to now, he is working to see that the program learn about and study, and we can’t be one of gets more attention and funding so that the only schools to offer it as a major. With- it grows just as rapidly as its job indusout expansion, we, as a country, could fall try. The program continues to build on its behind as the need for this industry grows,” research projects to present at the UniverStetter said. sity Research Symposium in March.
REVIEW
Migos dominates ‘Culture’ EVAN HOON Features Reporter | @Hoondog7
Migos consists of three men named Quavo, Offset and Takeoff. Offset is Quavo’s cousin. Quavo is Takeoff’s uncle. By working together, this family band created the most infectious album of the new year (so far). The Atlanta group’s sophomore studio release titled “Culture” is a 13-track earworm. There is no need to discuss any lyrical subtext or profound messaging. “Culture” is an album about bounce, beats and ad-libs. Migos has a signature flow — or rhyme pattern — that has become the most copied style in the entire industry. One line of lyrics is performed in a rapid, staccato outburst, with a pause in between to dab — a dance Migos popularized — or for someone else to yell their favorite ad-lib. The rhythmic pauses cause the songs to bounce, and no one is better at making a song bounce than Migos. A perfect example is its megahit “Bad and Boujee.” The haunting beat is minimal to let the rappers create the bounce. All three members trade verses on this album without losing the momentum or the passion of the song. The timing is impeccable. “Culture” only seems to suffer when the beats do not complement the vocals. On songs like “What the Price” and “Big on Big,” the instrumentals swallow the vocals and cause the song to feel cluttered and unfocused. The least memorable track on the album, “Kelly Price,” is lost in foggy autotune and a half-hearted Travis Scott feature.
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SUMMER SESSION STARTS MAY 22 AND JUNE 5. Start planning your summer now at harpercollege.edu/summer
HOROSCOPE Today’s Birthday (02/16/17). This year is a journey of academic discovery and adventure. Strengthen your community connections to fly farther. Shift strategies with a collaborative effort this month, leading to a moneymaking boom. Make personal changes in September, before a romance heats up. Explore together. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Review family resources, and study the money flow. Your words inspire others to act. Make an excellent suggestion, and invite participation. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Get inspired from another’s insights. Strengthen partnerships and alliances. Share information, resources and results. Friends are happy to help. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Get moving. There’s plenty of action coming. Ratchet
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FOR RENT: SPRING 17 & SU/ FALL/SPRING 17-18 1-6 BR houses for rent. Furnished, low rent, 1 mile from ISU. Call or text 309-830-1121
the tempo up a notch. Take breaks, rest deeply and nourish yourself well. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- See the world through another’s eyes. You’re developing a new perspective. Give up something that no longer serves. Grasp a fleeting opportunity. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Family holds your attention. Domestic responsibilities call. Take advantage of an offer. Listen carefully for what’s required. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today
is an 8 -- Research and writing flow easily. Ask probing questions and get the full story. Reveal interesting developments. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Compute expenses and update financial accounts. Focus on making money. More work increases your sense of security. Be careful when practicing new skills. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- Focus on personal matters. Keep your faith and your word. Listen for what’s most authentic. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- To-
day is a 6 -- Slow down and think things over. Clean up from the last project. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -Today is a 7 -- Talk things over with your team. Don’t take action without considering the impact on others. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is an 8 -- Advance on a professional goal. Do your best work. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 9 -- What’s on the itinerary? Travel conditions suggest smooth sailing.
Phone 309 438 7685 • Fax 309 438 5211 Corner of Locust & University, Normal, IL Monday – Friday. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Subleases available! www.sami.com (309) 888-4600 For Rent: Su/Fall/Spring 17-18 NEW CONSTRUCTION!!! 403 E. VERNON, 4 bed/4.5 bath townhomes Two laundry rooms/unit Flat screen TV, swimming pool/fitness room access www.sami.com (309) 888-4600 Crossing Dr. Large 3 Br/2 & 3 Ba townhome. W/D. $367-382 per person. 309-830-5073. See www.RLapartments.com Large 2 BR. Apt. for 2. $395/person., $265 for 3, A/C, dishwasher, deck/ patio, laundry. Heat & water paid, 6 blocks north on School St. from ISU (309)287-1870 Linden Trails: Brand new construction. 4 bdrm, 4.5 bath with washer and dryer. Next to the trail. Utilities included. Start at $620/person. Class Act Realty 309-454-2960 301 S. WALNUT: Furnished 2 Bedrooms. Balcony, Covered parking, Laundry. Quiet Building. Start at ONLY $290 Class Act Realty. 454-2960 808 S Linden: Large 1, 2, 3 and 4 person units. All Utilities Included. Next to the trail. Start at $350. Class Act Realty. 454-2960
N Linden 3 or 4 bdrm house. Off street parking. Great location. Days: 309-2751281. Evenings: 309-365-8604. 5 BR House near ISU golf course. Partially furnished w/ attached garage. $500/mo/person. 309-696-9326 Huge 1 and 2 BR uptown Normal. Next to
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Large 2 BR. Townhouse. $585/person, $390 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
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For Rent: Spring 2017
Fell: Spacious 2 & 4 Bedrooms. 1 block from campus. Laundry. Start at $375. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 TOWNHOMES: 2, 3 & 4 Bedrooms. Include Washer-dryer, central air, dishwasher, parking, patio and/or balcony, yard. ONLY $255-360 per bedroom. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 401 N. Fell Ave. Remodeled 4 bedroom/2 bath. New flooring and kitchen counter top. Breakfast bar with stools, dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer & dryer in unit. Central air, secured building, off street parking, high speed internet provided. $495/per person. Call
Various 1, 2, 3 and 4 Bedrooms and some single rooms available. $235$555. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Need an apartment for immediate move-in? 2 bedrooms and roommate matching available! www.sami.com (309) 888-4600
HELP WANTED- GENERAL Suburban Express is looking for a reliable, mature person to supervise Thursday and Friday bus departures at Bone and put up posters. Must be available 5:30pm - 6:30 pm Thursdays, 2:00pm to 4:00pm EVERY Friday during school year, and about two hours
mondays and wednesdays. $15/hr, about 6-8 hours/week. Interested? Apply at www.suburbanexpress.com/isujob Local studet for work on non-farm rural property. Experience with mowing, outdoor work and projects helpful. Part-time for spring, summer and fall. Call John at 728-2920. We are expanding our business program and we are widening our network our company is looking for part time Work from home account managers and sales representatives in our account receivable department.it pays 1500-5000USD plus benefits and takes only little of your time.The individual must have experience and knowledge of payables, receivables, general ledger, printing of financial reports...Requirements Should be a computer Literate. 24 hours access to the internet weekly.Must be Efficient and Dedicated.If you are interested and need more information,Contact Email: ads.recruit2020@gmail.com<Turn on JavaScript to see email address> Spring break week help & 2nd semester. Before/after school program. Looking for staff during ISU spring break and/for the semester. Applications can be picked up at the Normal Parks & Recs Office or email ktetter@normal.org<Turn on JavaScript to see email address> for more info.
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
Sports
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Bruce Stidham | Springfield News Leader
Illinois State forward MiKyle McIntosh scored nine points in 22 minutes off the bench during his first appearance back against Missouri State Wednesday evening.
NAILBITER
Illinois State withstands Bears’ hot shooting, tops Missouri State, 67-66; Redbirds remain in first place after McIntosh returns to lineup less than month after tearing meniscus JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor | @JCTSports
SPRINGFIELD, MO. - Missouri State shot 47.1 percent from the field, but a missed pair of late free throws and 3-pointers was the difference Illinois State needed to come out with a huge win Wednesday evening at JHQ Arena. The Redbirds topped Missouri State, 67-66, improving to 22-5, 14-1 Missouri Valley Conference, behind a strong effort from ISU’s seniors and an early return from MiKyle McIntosh (torn meniscus). “The goal on defense is to force a turnover or make them take an incredibly tough shot,” said ISU coach Dan Muller whose team is still tied in first place with Wichita State atop the Valley. “Whether they make or miss you can’t control that.” Missouri State shot lights out for a majority of the evening but the Bears couldn’t convert
when it mattered most. Down one with seven seconds left, Obediah Church missed a pair of free throws. ISU’s DJ Clayton gifted the Bears with another opportunity after the junior forward was intentionally fouled on the following possession but missed the front end of a one-and-one. The last six seconds were a blur. Church grabbed the rebound off Clayton’s miss and dished it to Dequon Miller for a last second MiKyle 3-pointer, but his shot was McIntosh too strong and hit the back end of the rim as time expired. Miller, who tallied 14 points and a game-high 39 minutes, had another opportunity to tie the game with a 3-pointer with 40 seconds left, but missed.
“I’m 100 percent sure we had about 8 to 10 breakdowns that were uncharacteristic of us and disappointing,” Muller said. “We’ve got to get (that) fixed.” ISU’s largest lead was nine at the 7:53 mark of the first half, but Missouri State closed the half on a 16-4 run. The Redbirds trailed, 33-29, at halftime. The second half was a gut wrenching, backand-forth slobber knocker Illinois State was able to eventually escape. Seniors Paris Lee, Tony Wills and Deontae Hawkins combined for 40 points. McIntosh added nine points in 22 minutes off the bench in his first appearance since tearing his meniscus less than a month ago. “We don’t win that game without MiKyle,” Muller said. “We of course were not going to rush him or play him, but he progressed great with his rehab. He was obviously ready to go. He’s not ready to play 30 minutes yet, I want it to be around 15 or 20 and he’ll continue to
get healthy. I’m so proud of him the way he competed without worrying.” McIntosh said he wasn’t expecting to come back until Sunday against Loyola but as time went on he “felt better and quicker.” McIntosh added he could’ve played if needed during last Saturday’s game against Bradley. “It felt good to be out (there),” McIntosh said. “I tried to stay calm and keep doing what I always do. I didn’t think my shots were going to go in that great but I’m pretty happy.” DJ Clayton chipped in 12 points and three rebounds for the Redbirds. ISU shot 45.8 percent (27-of-59) from the field and 37.5 percent (9-of-24) from beyond the arc. Missouri State outrebounded the Redbirds 31-30. ISU committed eight turnovers compared to the Bears’ 12. ISU hosts Loyola Chicago (17-11, 7-8 MVC) at 3 p.m. Sunday. The Redbirds defeated the Ramblers, 81-59, during the team’s first meeting on New Years Day.