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MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
Vol. 129 / No. 01
ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSIT Y’S NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1888
Relaxed pot laws change little on campus While marijuana criminal penalties have been removed in Illinois, ISU offenders still face consequences TOM HEAGNEY News Reporter | @TomHeagney
Illinois State University students excited about the state’s recent marijuana decriminalization bill should think twice about lighting one up on campus to celebrate. Senate Bill 2228, signed into law by Gov. Bruce Rauner on July 29, removes criminal penalties for those found in possession of 10 grams or less of marijuana and also does away with the state’s “zero tolerance” policy regarding state DUI laws. Under prior legislation, offenders found in possession of up to 28 grams of the drug faced misdemeanor conviction, probation and jail time. Previously, drivers found with any trace of marijuana in their system, regardless of whether they were intoxicated at the time, faced DUI arrest and conviction. The new law requires that offenders have at least five nanograms of THC in their system before being considered for such charges. Despite the statewide change in law and a widely anticipated shift in attempts to combat marijuana usage, offenders on campus are subject to different circumstances. “As an institution which receives federal funding through student loans and grants, we cannot permit cannabis use on campus as long as it remains illegal on a federal level,” ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff said. While Woodruff said the majority of ISU Police Department’s cannabis cases are for possession of less than 10 grams, he invites students to remember that sale
Connect Transit receives new routes, schedules KEVIN SCHWALLER News Reporter | @kevschwa
Students that use the Connect Transit buses can expect some new changes this school year. The Bloomington-Normal bus system rolled out new fares and routes last Monday. The new structure now gives riders the option to buy $3 one-day passes. Seven-day passes are available for $10, and the 30-day fixed route pass increased from $29 to $32. Single-ride fares are still available for $1. Connect Transit Business Development Manager Melissa Chrisman says the company has been helping customers transition into new routes and fares. “The administrative team has been hard at work with hosting numerous educational sessions with the public and presentations with community partners. We have explained the process of what to expect with the new routes and have done personalized trip planning on the new routes,” Chrisman said. “Over the next several weeks, we have events on the ISU campus to continue to spread the word to incoming students.” see ROUTES page 5
of any amount and possession of more than 10 grams are arrestable offenses even under the new law. In addition, Woodruff said that students caught with less than 10 grams will still have their marijuana confiscated and be referred to the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution and to the State’s Attorney’s Office for related civil fines. “Officers will still arrest individuals if they appear to be driving while impaired by alcohol, cannabis or any other substance,” Woodruff said. “However, the Illinois State Police Labs are still determining how best to process the test results for the appropriate levels of THC f o r
cannabis related violations.” Student penalties levied by the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution for possession of any amount of cannabis are quite steep. According to the office’s Alcohol and Other Drug Sanctioning Grid, a first-time offender in possession of less than 15 grams of marijuana is subject to a $150 fine and mandatory participation in a Marijuana 101 program. Possession or use of more than 15 grams subjects students to a $200 fine as well as a two-semester minimum disciplinary probation. Distribution or sale of less than 15 grams of marijuana is subject to a two-semester minimum disciplinary probation and $300 fine, while distribution or sale of more than 15 grams can result in a two-semester minimum probation, a $400 fine automatically billed to the student’s account, completion of off-campus counseling and potential drug testing and other conditions upon return to campus. “In regard to Student Conduct and Conf lict Resolution, this change in state law does not affect our educational response to students who violate the Code of Student Conduct,” Student Conduct and Conf lict Resolution Office Coordinator Michael Zajac said. “[The penalties listed in the sanctioning grid] are our typical, minimum response to alcohol and other drug violations of our code of Student Conduct.”
New student housing plan set for May 2017 STEPHANIE RODRIGUEZ News Reporter | @StephanieRoddd
New student housing across the street from Hancock Stadium is set to replace a former Super Pantry convenience store that has been vacant since the its closure three years ago. The closed convenience store sits across the street from the Illinois State University water tower next to Hancock Stadium. Brown Enterprises, a Bloomington company that builds student and residential housing, hopes to convert this abandoned store into campus-assessable student living. The Town of Normal Planning Commission unanimously approved the change of zoning for the site during its Aug. 4 meeting earlier this month. Owner of Brown Enterprises John Brown and architect Russell Arbuckle of EA Architecture & Design, Inc. were present during the rezoning meeting. According to the planning commission minutes, the pair had gotten all of the required soil testing cleared without stipulation before going in front of the planning commission. After the approval of the project, Arbuckle said he felt a sense of relief. “It is always a bit of a nervous feeling when approaching a commission or council. Obviously, we
make our best case argument for our client’s end goal and hope that we are persuasive enough to get a majority to see the benefit of our plans,” Arbuckle said. “In this case, support of the Commission was a little more expected because the site has been vacant for a while and has some other issues limiting its development with its current zoning.” By ot her issues, Arbuckle is referring to a covenant that the Normal Planning Commission said will not Anna Gallagher | Vidette Photographer allow a convenient store to be on the site. This, Construction for new student housing across Hancock Stadium will begin May 2017. along with the location, of the best student housing in the booming on many major colhelped make the case for new stu- country.” lege campuses including ISU’s,” dent housing easier for Brown This is not the first time that Arbuckle said. “In Normal, it is a Enterprises. Brown and Arbuckle teamed up very competitive marketplace and Brown said the location of the on a student housing project. The to make these projects work finannew housing — the corner of Main pair have worked together before cially, the project has to be at or and Willow — will become a build- on two other campus apartment near the top of the market. It is ing that the community will be projects. a high bar that is continually on proud of. As the number of incoming the rise.” “This is an A+ location for Illi- freshman and transfer students Arbuckle and Brown both said nois State University students,” increases every year, Arbuckle that the project is expected to Brown said. “[It is] very close to feels that student housing in an start construction in May of next campus and an added bonus for important element in Normal and year, or possibly sooner, and will student athletes as it is across towns like it. be ready for occupancy in August the street from the newly reno“With student enrollment of 2018 with pre-rental beginning vated Hancock Stadium. My team appearing to be on the rise, before that. looks forward to providing some the student housing market is
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
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The Vidette The Vidette is published Monday and Thursday every week, except for final examinations, holidays, and semester breaks. The Summer Vidette is published every other week. Students are responsible for the content of the Vidette. The views presented do not necessarily represent, in whole or part, those of the Illinois State University administration, faculty, and students. The Vidette is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Illinois College Press Association. Subscriptions are available by mail to anywhere in the United States for $150 per calendar year. © The Vidette 2016 University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890
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‘We Are Woodstock’ takes readers back in time to 1969 festival
MICHAEL FARCA Vidette Features Reporter | @FarcaMichael
“We Are Woodstock” by G.A. Eldridge is a retro throwback written by a reliable author who was actually at the famed Woodstock Festival of 1969. The book is written in a journalistic style with diary entries written from the first-person account of the protagonist, a hippie who has just left his job and the rest of his life back in Brooklyn so he can attend the festival. The sentences
Emma Horath | Vidette Senior Photographer
‘We Are Woodstock,’ written by author G.A.Eldridge, is a tale of a young man who attended the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969.
and paragraphs themselves were short enough to the point where I could tell exactly where I was on the page after a break, and the paragraphs themselves were actually placed pretty nicely. The story is mostly standard in terms of one character experiencing something great, with the obligatory ’60s lingo and gimmicks thrown in there for style — a style that works strongly to the book’s advantage. It is historical fiction at a glance, but I can’t help but tell that there is a faint twinge of autobiogra-
phy in there as well seeing how G.A. Eldridge shares the same exact name as the main character, Glenn Eldridge. Eldridge could very well be sharing his own experiences, and those of the friends he attended the concert with, however the narrative and story elements in “We Are Woodstock” make it sound like historical fiction.
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VIDETTE EDITORIAL
MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
Vanderbilt University makes an inclusive change
V
a nderbi lt Un iver sit y announced last Monday that it will remove the word “Confederate” from one of its student residence halls known as Memorial Hall. Vanderbilt will officially join the wave of universities that are changing the way they display their southern roots associated with the Civil War. Nicholas S. Zeppos, chancellor of Vanderbilt, said that he and other university officials have wanted to remove the word “Confederate” from the inscription “Confederate Memorial Hall.” University officials believe that this change in the stone-etched dormitory — that honors rebels who fought in the 19th century for a secessionist movement that supported slavery — was an important step that shows Vanderbilt’s fight for inclusiveness. “It’s been a source of controversy, contention and disagreement and various debates over the decades,” Zeppos said in a quote in The Washington Post. “The question would always come back to, how can we be an inclusive, diverse environment, where everyone feels included, and
everyone understands the importance of diversity, with this hall so named?” Many universities are taking this
first big step to make sure everyone on campus feels safe and included. The University of Texas, for example, removed the statue of Con-
federate President Jefferson Davis from an outdoor mall on its campus. The University of Mississippi took down its state flag because of the
Editorial Cartoon by Jeremy Burcenski | Vidette Art Director
Confederate emblem that is present on the flag. The College of William & Mary took down a plaque that honored rebel soldiers from one of its buildings. Zeppos, who has been at Vanderbilt since 1987, said the word “Confederate” evokes slavery, Jim Crow laws, racial segregation and the Civil War. “It was just not the inclusive symbol that we really want Vanderbilt to have,” Zeppos said. The word “Confederate” is a striking word, and progress cannot be made throughout campuses in the United States if the word continues to peacefully linger, causing students to feel uncomfortable. Many Americans believe that America’s race problem was solved after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act in 1965, but recent racially motivated events show the issues many American minorities face every day. Vanderbilt University will have the word “Confederate” temporarily covered before its permanent removal. In future months, the new pediment will not have the word “Confederate,” but instead will just say “Memorial Hall.”
Editorial written by KAMARA TURNER, 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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MY VIEW AVE RIO Editor-in-Chief
A
s the new editor of the school paper, I knew I wanted to write a column for the first paper and to make some sort of declaration to the student body welcoming you all back to campus and encouraging you to read The Vidette. But how? I wondered how it would be possible to express just how much The Vidette means to me. Well, I’m going to say what I know. I know that working at The Vidette has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experi-
ences of my life. I know that my colleagues and I will work as hard as we can to bring the latest and most important stories to our readers. I know that we’re adapting to the changing times and bringing the news to you not only through the bi-weekly newspaper, but every day on our website, through our mobile app and spread widely through our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts. An exciting year of news is upon us. We’ll keep you updated on the state budget, the new renovations at Illinois State University and, of course, the presidential election. Okay, okay, it’s not completely selfless; knowing what’s going on and reporting the news is fun (at least for me!) Just like calculus is fun for you, or teaching children the ABCs, or running the 500-meter dash, staying up all night in The Vidette office on election night will be thrilling for
us journalism nerds. So let’s support each other. We’re all in school for the same reason: to find our passion and become sort of good at it, right? So our reporters and photographers will cover your basketball game, your protest outside Schroeder Hall, the burglary next door to your apartment, the water leak in your dorm, your award-winning professor and your best friend who is organizing a rally for Hillary Clinton ... or Donald Trump. And maybe you could pick up the newspaper, or your phone, and read about it. Hey, if you’re reading this column, I’ve already won half the battle. In my 15 previous years of school, I have never been more excited for the school year to begin. It’s kind of bittersweet that it’s my last year, but I think I’ll be ready to start the new phase of my life when it’s time. Until then, though, I’ll
dedicate the next 10 months of my life to producing a great newspaper: finding the truth, providing clarity, gaining readership and getting the story to you in the best way possible. So, my collegiate peers, let The Vidette help you stay informed this year. Whether it’s our feature article on how to make the best of senior year, our weekly editorials and columns on the latest in the presidential election, the sports feature about your favorite football player or the news story that really teaches you something, The Vidette is here to entertain you, to inform you and to make you think. And isn’t that what college is all about? Ave Rio is a senior journalism major and the Editor-in-Chief of The Vidette. Any questions or concerns regarding her column can be sent to vidette_ario@ilstu.edu.
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE Redbird Rumble: To the new freshman class members starting their first college courses today.
Redbird Fumble: To the three indicators for the presence of West Nile Virus in McLean County.
Redbird Rumble: To ISU’s Eta Upsilon chapter of Sigma Delta Pi, the national collegiate Hispanic honor society that was named an “Honor Chapter” for its exceptional activities in 2015-16.
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 250-word limit can be published at the editor’s discretion,but shorter letters take precedence. Letters containing name calling and insults will not be published. Letters must be signed and contain the major or official title of the writer, the year in school if presently enrolled, address and a daytime telephone number for verification. Letters without phone numbers will not be considered for publication. Names may be withheld upon request, but only after approval by the editor. Letters are subject to editing for style and space at the editor’s discretion.
Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Rumble: To the Mennonite College of Nursing that was
awarded a federal Advanced Education Nursing Traineeship grant of almost $350,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Redbird Rumble: To Gabriel Iglesias, who will perform at Braden Auditorium September 22.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
Submitted by Abigaelle Ngamboma
Ngamboma spent the summer in Villa El Salvador, Peru, where she performed a service project. She learned to live more like a local than a tourist (left) and spent a few days in the mountains (right).
ISU student finds service, self in Peru TOM HEAGNEY News Reporter | @TomHeagney
Illinois State University student Abigaelle Ngamboma is no stranger to foreign experiences. Having migrated from Congo alongside her family 10 years ago, Ngamboma could be considered an expert when compared to the majority of her peers. Even still, she could not quite prepare herself for the initial jolt of culture shock that is all too familiar to those who travel. “I remember a man coming up to me and immediately beginning to ask me for instructions in Spanish,” Ngamboma said. “I instantly thought, ‘This is no joke, I am seriously in Peru.’” For Ngamboma, this eye-opening arrival in Lima marked the beginning of a monthlong faculty-led trip to study with the Inti-Killa Turismo Solidario. The institution, called “IntiKilla” for short, seeks community development through responsible tourism practices. The trip was arranged through Illinois State University’s Office of International Studies and Programs (OISP). Ngamboma saw the program and its host country as the perfect opportunity for someone with her background.
“If asked [previously] where I wanted to study abroad, surprisingly, I would not list a European or other well-known and tourist attracting countries,” Ngamboma said. “I wanted to have a program that allowed me to do something impactful.” The program is named after María Elena Moyano, a famed Afro-Peruvian community organizer, political activist and national leader who was assassinated by the Sendero Luminoso, or Shining Path, terrorist group in 1992. Students of the program live and study in Moyano’s hometown neighborhood of Villa El Salvador, an area on the south side of Lima. During the trip, they are exposed to professors, community leaders and other speakers who review various topics relating to Peruvian politics and culture. “The fourth [and final] week of the program was, personally, the most physically, mentally and emotionally challenging,” Ngamboma said. During that week, students focused heavily on service in the form of setting up solar panels for families without electricity in their homes. In an interesting twist to the service project, the students hiked three hours up to a mountain community and camped for three days. According to Ngamboma, the extreme elevation as well
as primitive living conditions gave her great insight as to how residents of the country live. “I can now say that I know how to live in Peru as both a tourist and a Peruvian.” Ngamboma said. In many ways, the country reminded Ngamboma of home, both in the United States as well as Congo. Having two home countries offered her a unique perspective, as she had double the experience to compare her temporary Peruvian home to. “Peru automatically reminded me of Congo,” Ngamboma said. “Especially in the way that people drove. Disorder seemed to have a type of order.” For Ngamboma, the country became so comfortable that she found herself having a difficult time adjusting to life in the United States upon her return. One such example was her instinctive use of Spanish in public transactions, such as ordering food at restaurants. In addition, she found herself missing many of the people who made her experience so memorable. “As much as I was ready to go back to the United States and see my family, transitioning back was tough,” Ngamboma said. “I knew I would most likely not see the people I met in Peru again, but I am glad I am able to apply all
that I learned and observed.” The OISP was integral in assisting Ngamboma with securing the financial aid to support her trip. Following countless scholarship applications, financial advisor meetings and prayer, the cost of her trip ended up being $0. Ultimately Ngamboma was awarded the Alice Ebel Annual Award, the Hoon Mok Chung Scholarship, the OISP Study Abroad Financial Need-Based Scholarship and grants from the University. Fresh from her arrival home, Ngamboma is already evaluating potential programs abroad post-graduation. She says the growth she experienced during her time in Peru has taught her countless lessons, such as knowing the difference between joy and happiness as well as knowing who she is and what she stands for. Having had such an incredible experience, Ngamboma highly encourages fellow students to consider programs such as hers. “I speak as a woman of faith by saying that if you have a desire to travel or do anything and there seems to be no way for it to happen, do it,” Ngamboma said. “Do not wait for everything around you to be the way you believe it should be before taking action.”
satisfy customers. “It was long overdue for a re-evaluation of efficiency continued from page 1 and performance,” Chrisman said. “Public transportaConnect Transit Public Outreach Coordinator Gabriel tion is funded by tax payer dollars and Connect Transit Goldsmith says the changes come after an eight-month wanted to step back, look at the system and ensure that we were running the most effectively for our passengers Comprehensive Operational Analysis. and that we “The analywere being sis was done to proper stewprovide citizens ards of our with the type of f u nd i ng bus service they resources.” have wanted,” The comGoldsmith said. pany is “Our main goal offering free was to provide service on faster, more effiall routes cient service for through Aug. our riders and 28 to help the new system riders get will be able to used to the provide these new system things.” Chrisman Mary Cullen | Vidette News Editor map. Connect said the first Illinois Congressman Darin LaHood and Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner unTransit also step was to veiled new routes for Connect Transit last Monday. released a survey riders. “The number one thing that our riders requested is new mobile app that is specific to the Bloomington-Northat the buses came by more often,” Chrisman said. mal system. It includes custom alerts to notify riders “That basic desire was the number one thing that drove about arrivals and detours, as well as a trip planning feature. the creation of the new routes.” Goldsmith believes the biggest change is the addition She added that the previous system map had not been updated in years, which had to be changed in order to of a Sunday service.
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PAGE 6 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
A summer full of political news
With the November general election about three months away, the summer was a busy time for candidates from all parties. Conventions took place, party nominations were made official and even controversies surfaced in the midst of it all.
Party conventions Both parties held their conventions where speakers and delegates from around the country gathered to support candidates. During the Republican National Convention (RNC), held July 18-21, Donald Trump was officially named the Republican nominee. At the Democratic National Convention (DNC), held July 25-28, Hillary Clinton was nominated. Illinois State University political science professor Kerri Milita said the conventions are “always the highlight of the summer preceding the general election.” “Conventions tend to be mostly feel-good coronations for the party’s chosen candidates,” Milita said. “It’s typically a time of unification and reconciliation between the various party factions. Call it ‘the summer of good feelings.’” Notable speakers from both conventions include former President Bill Clinton, President Barack Obama, Sens. Ted Cruz and Mitch McConnell, celebrities Scott Baio, Meryl Streep and Eva Longoria.
Controversies Both the Democratic and Republican parties had their fair share of controversies throughout the summer. Preceding the DNC, Wikileaks leaked about 20,000 emails which claimed the party favored Clinton over Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. DNC head Deborah Wasserman Schultz resigned, effective at the close of the convention. Multiple Trump family members were also in the spotlight. Melania Trump, Donald Trump’s wife, gave a speech during the first day of the RNC. It was later found that the speech had a paragraph that was nearly identical to First Lady Michelle Obama’s 2008 DNC speech. Melania Trump said she wrote the speech “with as little help as possible,” but a staff writer later took responsibility. Donald Trump made remarks toward fallen soldier Army Capt. Humayun Khan’s parents after his father’s speech at the DNC. During the convention, Khizr and Ghazala Khan spoke about their son, who was killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004, and the sacrifices he made. Ghazala Khan did not speak during her and her husband’s time on stage. Donald Trump speculated Ghazala Khan “maybe wasn’t allowed to have anything
to say” due to her Muslim religion. Several Republican lawmakers criticized Donald Trump for his comments. While both sides had controversies surface, ISU assistant professor of politics and government L.J. Zigerell said they might not have much of an impact on voters. “I haven’t made much of the summer controversies because the actions that I expect the candidates to take if elected are different enough that the controversies have not provided enough reason to change my vote intention,” Zigerell said.
Vice president picks Before both Clinton and Trump claimed their official party nominations, both announced who would be their running mates. Trump was the first to name Indiana Gov. Mike Pence as a potential vice president. Clinton selected Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine. Vice president picks can have an influence when it comes time to picking a president, according to The Washington Post’s Monkey Cage blog. However, Milita does not foresee these picks as changing anyone’s mind. “Both choices were ‘safe’ picks. Pence shores up the evangelical vote for Trump, while Kaine is meant to appeal to traditional 1990s era Clinton Democrats,” Milita said. “These picks seem targeted toward older Americans, which makes sense seeing as how so much of the campaign rhetoric this year is geared toward younger generations.”
Third party candidates Many people around the country have expressed frustration on social media that they are not satisfied with the nominees for the two dominant parties. Instead of making a decision between the two, people have been looking to third party candidates. Notable candidates include Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson for the Libertarian Party and Dr. Jill Stein for the Green Party. compiled by EMA SASIC | Vidette News Editor
Microsoft, Normal digitally team up
Uptown Station plans for railroad track study
Products, expertise offered as part of two-year alliance KEVIN SCHWALLER News Reporter | @KevSchwa
The Town of Normal announced it will be teaming up with Microsoft Corp. to promote digital literacy, entrepreneurship and youth involvement in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. Microsoft will offer a variety of software products and expertise to help individual workers as part of a two-year digital alliance. Residents will have access to Microsoft’s Digital Literacy curriculum, a self-paced tool to help workers learn a full range of computer skills. They will also be able to use the Microsoft Imagine Academy program, which helps users develop and train fundamental technology skills. Council member Kevin McCarthy said he spoke with Microsoft about the idea of a partnership. “It was a result of the STEM education initiatives going on between our local high schools and companies,” McCarthy said. “There were some conversations between me and one of the Microsoft folks about what we’re trying to do in Normal. We’re really working on economic development and innovation.” Microsoft is offering residents of the Town of Normal access to its Digital Literacy Curriculum as part of the alliance. The curriculum helps community members prepare to enter or re-enter the workplace. Council member Kathleen Lorenz says there are major benefits to the alliance. “There’s an economic benefit in particular to startup entrepreneur efforts because they will be providing business software. People are very excited to get access to this software
Archive Photo
Several locations in Normal, including the Normal Public Library and the Normal Theater, will take part in the alliance with Microsoft. that would otherwise be unaffordable for a startup [company],” Lorenz said. McCarthy said the tools will also be beneficial for those interested in engineering. “The things Microsoft puts out can lead to higher levels of training for people that want to pursue the tech industry,” McCarthy explained. “If somebody wants to go off and go into engineering, the tools they are making available are stepping stones.” Microsoft will be providing special features throughout the community for citizens to examine and use. “Partnerships will exist at places like Normal Theater and the Normal Public Library,” Lorenz said. “The library is going to be a place where curriculum and tools will become available.” “This fall, Microsoft is going to bring a documentary about young
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girls who are pursuing the STEM technology to the Normal Theater,” Lorenz added. “They will be providing information about STEM to the K-12 groups in our community and schools.” As much as council members and the town of Normal is looking forward to the future of the partnership, Microsoft is also optimistic about the digital alliance. “Microsoft is really focused on the digital literacy part, but also the entrepreneurial tech and innovation side to it,” McCarthy said. “Their tools can help entrepreneurs really advance their companies and expand.” “All of those tools are really valuable in today’s marketplace,” McCarthy added. The town’s partnership will last for two years.
EMA SASIC News Editor | @Ema_Sasic
During last Monday’s meeting, the Normal Town Council approved a feasibility study for the possibility of adding a pedestrian railroad underpass at Uptown Station. C on s u lt a nt WSP/Pa r s on s Brinckerhoff of New York City will lead the study, which is referred to as the phase one engineering study. The group will negotiate a contract to perform the study, which is expected to take two years. The council has previously authorized $1.5 million for the work, but the actual cost will be negotiated with the consultant. Normal Director of Communications Dan Irvin explained how the idea of the underpass study came about. “In November of last year, the Town Council approved an update to the Uptown Normal Master Plan that calls for development to the south of the railroad tracks and Uptown Station, including a public park, retail, office space and a new library,” Irvin said. “To attract more users to Uptown South development [as] a way for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the tracks is advised.” During the master plan process completed in November, an underpass was recommended as the favored Uptown Station addition to get across railroad tracks based on studies and public input. The specific scope of work will be negotiated with WSP/Parsons Brinckerhoff. However, Ir vin explained they will be conducting surveys, environmental studies and conceptual plans required
to advance to the construction phase. While the underpass is one of the main projects being examined in the study, other options will be considered. “After the initial study, they went ahead and looked at a couple of alternatives — a bridge or an underpass —and in a very preliminary way they looked at these options. As a result of that study and the public process, the public said the underpass looks like the best option,” Normal Director of Public Works Wayne Aldrich said. “But they didn’t do intense engineering or surveys or analysis that is necessary before you decide to proceed with one or the other.” “Any and all alternatives will be looked at. One will be to do nothing and leave it the way it is. There’s been talk about an atgrade crossing like we had before, but [it is] highly doubtful because of safety issues. There’s several options for going over with a bridge and options to go under in an underpass,” Aldrich added. Although WSP/Parsons Brinckerhoff will have control over the study, Normal citizens will be informed along the way and asked for input in the “public process.” “That means bringing the public along when you’re talking about the alternatives and making sure the public is involved and active and giving a comment on what we’re doing,” Aldrich said. “They’re going to know about major milestones, especially what I call the alternative analysis, where the public would be most involved.” If the council decides to approve building an underpass after the study concludes, construction design will take up to a year, and construction could take two years. A completed Uptown Station would be set for fall 2021.
Phone 309 438 7685 • Fax 309 438 5211 Corner of Locust & University, Normal, IL Monday – Friday. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
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MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
Features
THE VIDETTE | PAGE 7
Photo courtesy of mtv.com
The season four cast members of “Are You The One?” poses on the beach in Maui where they filmed for 10 weeks.
ISU student seeks ‘the one’ on MTV show Broadcast journalism major Alyssa Ortiz wins $28,000 in season four of ‘Are You The One?’ MORGAN KUNIEJ Vidette Features Editor | @MorganKuniej
For some, back to school means back to reality. For Illinois State University student Alyssa Ortiz it means back from reality (TV, that is). Ortiz is a broadcast journalism major at ISU and in November of 2015 decided to apply to be on season four of MTV’s reality dating show, “Are You the One?” “I found the link on Twitter and jokingly applied for it – not thinking they would actually call me back,” Ortiz said. She was later flown out to California, where she was chosen to be on the show. Ortiz withdrew from her classes for the rest of the semester and hopped on a plane to Maui, Hawaii, where she would stay for the next 10 weeks. Little did she know how chaotic it would be to live in a house of 10 guys and 10 girls who are love and money hungry. Reality TV often leaves viewers wondering if cast members are being transparent on the show. ISU student — and friend of Ortiz — Heather Yale said Alyssa was definitely true to herself throughout the entire show. “Everything she did on the show was ex-
actly who she is and I never once thought she was acting or pretending to be someone she is not,” Yale said. “The whole time she was classy, real and never involved in the drama that was going on in the house, and that is how she is in real life.” On the show, the cast members are matched up based on personality tests and interviews they completed beforehand. Each week, every member of the house “locks in” with someone to compete in a challenge together. The winning couples get the opportunity to go on a date, and the rest of the cast votes one couple into the “truth booth” to confirm if they are a perfect match or not. If they are, the couple moves out of the house and into the honeymoon suite where they stay until the show is over. If the cast gets all of their perfect matches correct in the 10 weeks they are in the house, they all split $1 million. “The best part of being on the show was definitely not having to pay for food. Just kidding, the best part was getting to know 19 other strangers while isolated in the middle of paradise,” Ortiz said. “It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience that helped me
step out of my comfort zone.” At the end of every episode, there is a match up ceremony where they find out how many matches they have correct, but not who the perfect matches are. If they get no new matches, this results in a “blackout” and they lose $250,000. The cast members had a blackout during week eight of the show this season, but was able to rebound from their loss and win the $750,000 to divide among themselves. Ortiz lucked out because at that point she had already made her way into the honeymoon suite with her perfect match, Sam Handler, during week six. She says this was perfect timing. “Ironically, the second we left, the house went insane, so I guess you could say we dodged a bullet with that one,” Ortiz said. Ortiz and Handler were a fan favorite, and were even given the hashtag ‘Salyssa.’ Salyssa fans were disappointed to find out the couple decided to split after the show. Many took to social media and expressed their heartbreak over this break-up on Instagram and Twitter. “What a lot of matches realized after the show is that there is a lot more to a relation-
ship than just science,” Ortiz said. “After the show, Sam and I were on two different pages. I wanted to do distance and he didn’t, so we decided to be just friends. I started seeing someone and eventually the tables turned and Sam wanted to be together.” Ortiz said the couple will remain friends regardless of the roller coaster of emotions they went through this summer. With over 40,000 Instagram followers, someone recognizes Ortiz almost every time she leaves the house. Ortiz said, “I sometimes feel like I’m living a double life so I’m finally ready to get back into school mode and knock out my senior year.” After she graduates, Ortiz plans to move out to L.A. and use some of the connections she made with producers on the show to land a career in production.
Alyssa Ortiz
Vintage Trouble set to rock the house at Castle Theatre DEB BETHEL Vidette Features Reporter | @thedebbethel
but not to worry, they get down without ripping their vintage attire. Just from watching live videos of their shows, viewers will see that their As the “live-wired, straight-shootin, dirtyself-proclamation of being “pelvis-pushing” mouth’d, pelvis-pushing, juke music-makin” fouris true, along with the fact that it is nearly a some that makes up Vintage Trouble travels the requirement for at least one band member to U.S. as special guests of the Dixie Chicks’ MMXVI crowd surf. World Tour, they’ll be headlining a separate show Venue manager of the Castle Theatre Jay at Bloomington’s very own Castle Theatre tomorLowers agrees, “Anybody that watches a video row night. of them wants to catch them live. They’re a The foursome of Ty Taylor, lead vocals; Nalle fantastic live band — very high-energy.” Colt, guitar; Rick Barrio Dill, bass; and Richard For being a fairly famous band, the Central Danielson, drums, makes up a rhythm & blues/ Illinois tour date took some by surprise. With soul/rock sound that even your parents would rock their usual cities of Los Angeles, New Orleans, out to. Kansas City, etc., the Castle Theatre is more Over the six years that the band has been tothan pleased to host the concert. gether, it has toured in venues varying from local “I saw a video of them playing at a European rooms in Los Angeles to headlining sold-out shows festival on TV, and said something to our talworldwide. A few of Vintage Trouble’s high points ent buyer and said we should get them, and it thus far have been touring with The Who and turns out they had already booked them. We’re opening for The Rolling Stones in London’s Hyde expecting a really good turn out after getting Park. some good feedback. It’s going to be one hell of Having all been performers for nearly their enPhoto courtesy of montrealjazzfestival.com a show,” Lowers said. Vintage Trouble gives off a classy look by performing in suits, but they rock out on stage. tire lives, the four guys that now make up Vintage However big or small the venue is, Vintage Trouble had never seemed to be a part of a group Trouble vows to give its all to the audience. Its that felt exactly right, that is, until the four came focus is to see as many places and people as ter Sessions,” in 2011 to “The Swing House Acoustic Sessions” together. possible, all while touching people with its music and helping in 2014 to its latest album, “1 Hopeful Rd.” released in 2015. The group talks about how it’s not just a band, but is a them have a great time. Through the slight changes of tempo and topic, the group brotherhood. And as a brotherhood that loves to perform and Tickets are $20 in advance and can be bought at the box members have not had any trouble keeping true to themselves have a great time with the crowd, the band also emphasizes the office, which is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through and creating tunes that listeners can dance to. importance of writing its own music. The members not only Friday. The Castle Theatre’s secondary box office is located And dance is exactly what they want listeners to do. The write and sing about what’s going on in their own lives, but at Waiting Room Records in Uptown Normal. Tickets are name of the game for their concerts is to arrive classy, leave what’s going on around the world, too. Their ability to balance also available online. On the day of the concert, tickets can be sweaty — or so says lead singer Ty. their writing, performances and love for what they do keeps bought for $23 if they are not sold out. Their appearance at the beginning of a show may fool audithem going and also makes them an enjoyable band to watch. Doors open at 7 p.m. on Tuesday night, and The Steepwater ence members, as they’re usually clad in suits or a retro getup, The group has evolved since its first album, “The Bomb ShelBand opens at 8 p.m.
Sports
PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE
MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016
Francis ready to shine for Redbirds JASON KLAER Sports Editor | @JasonKlaerISU
Photo courtesy of ISU Athletics
Ella Francis had 929 kills at Prior Lake High School.
Illinois State’s volleyball team lost one senior, Ashley Rosch, at the conclusion of the 2015 season. Although her absence will be greatly missed, head coach Melissa Myers did a fine job of drawing in solid recruits from across the Midwest. One of the players new to this year’s roster is outside hitter Ella Francis. She is a native of Prior Lake, Minn., with a wealth of prep volleyball experience. Francis is the all-time leader in kills (929) at Prior Lake High School. She was a three-year starter and helped her team earn a record of 75-14 in that span. As a senior, she was named the team captain and was also awarded the team’s most valuable player. Off the court, Francis shined in track and field, being an all-state selection twice. Considering all of her accolades and awards, Francis caught the attention of a few Division I level schools. ISU separated itself from the rest in a few areas. “I really liked the coaches and I enjoyed the girls on ISU. This is a fun group to be a part of,” Francis said. “I knew I would be spending a lot of time with the team so it was important to immediately develop relationships with my teammates, and I knew I would be able to do that here.”
Bonding as a team will be crucial on road trips. ISU will travel a total of 3,969 miles the first weekend of competition when participating in the Loyola Marymount Invitational. “Being able to play in Los Angeles against UCLA and Loyola Marymount is exciting and will be a good challenge for us,” Francis said. “Although it is a tough test, we will have a chance to learn from these two great opponents.” Volleyball will take up most of her schedule, especially in the fall; however, Francis looks forward to some other aspects. “Being a part of the college atmosphere is enticing for me to be a student at a great university as well as attend other sporting events,” Francis said. “Having fun is something I am looking to do the most of this year.” Francis loves athletics and carries other passions with her, but there is just one thing she is unable to live without. If she was stranded on an island and had access to only one food item, Francis is confident which she would choose. “I would have to go with ice cream — it is a go-to treat to enjoy while I am by myself.” Francis and the rest of the ISU volleyball team will travel to Los Angeles in the Loyola Marymount Invitational where they will square off versus Loyola Marymount, UCLA and Niagara beginning Friday.
ISU soccer has not scored a goal in its first two matches despite out-shooting Illinois on Sunday afternoon, 10-4.
Archive Photo
Soccer drops first two games vs. B1G NICK LANDI Sports Reporter | @TheDon1033
Similar to last season, the Illinois State soccer team was unable to dig out of an early deficit in a pair of losses over the weekend.
August 19 vs. Wisconsin, 1-0 L The Wisconsin Badgers scored the only goal of the night less than three minutes into the match and held off a late charge for a 1-0 win over the Redbirds in the first game of the 2016 season. Wisconsin forward Dani Rhodes got the Badgers’ goal in her first appearance with the team. For the remainder of the first half, Wisconsin took control by outshooting the Redbirds 14-3. These problems were similar to a significant statistic from the previous year. In 2015, they
gave up 14 goals while only scoring seven in the first half of all of their games. In regards to facing an early deficit in this game, head coach Eric Golz thinks his team just came out a little too nervous. “I thought we were just mentally a little bit timid from the beginning,” Golz said. “I think from an execution perspective we were really sloppy in our marking on set plays. It was a preventable goal and certainly not the way you want to start your season.” In the second half, they came out with a lot more energy and aggressiveness. One player who stood out in particular was forward Mikayla Unger, who was also making her collegiate debut. Halfway through the second half, she almost had Illinois State pull even when her bicycle kick off a corner hit the crossbar. Even she could not explain how she managed that solid of a kick on such a tough angle.
August 21 @ Illinois, 1-0 L Just like the Badgers did on opening night, the Illinois Fighting Illini got a 1-0 win over the Redbirds on a goal in the first half. It was senior Allison Stucky who got the golden goal for the Illini. She would put them ahead at the 30-minute mark of the match. The Redbirds once again had an opportunity to tie the game in the second half. Lauren Koehl was given a penalty kick, but Illinois goalkeeper Michelle Denley was able to make the biggest of her 10 saves in the match. ISU was able to outshoot the Illini on goal 10-4, but the team has still yet to score a goal this season. While the offense was not able to get onto the scoreboard, the defense put on another good showing. Illinois State will continue its quest for its first victory at 7 p.m. Thursday when Marquette comes to Adelaide Street Field.
Kolbe throws two touchdowns in summer scrimmage RYAN KELLY Senior Reporter | @rKelly1122
Illinois State took advantage of what turned out to be a beautiful Saturday afternoon and played a scrimmage. Quarterback Jake Kolbe threw two touchdown passes in the game and finished 11-for-20 for 121 yards on the
afternoon. ISU head coach Brock Spack believes the team has a lot of room for improvement. “I didn’t think we were really sharp, really anywhere,” Spack said. “But I expect a little bit more out of our passing offense. One of the touchdowns went for 36 yards to last season’s leading receiver
for the Redbirds, Anthony Warrum. The Indiana native finished the afternoon with a pair of catches for 44 yards. The running game was not able to get much, as the defensive was stout between the tackles. The game’s leading rusher, redshirt freshman DeMarco Corbin, had 18 yards on two carries. The longest
run of the game went for 15 yards. Special teams had a bright spot after junior defensive lineman Dalton Keene blocked an extra point, and defensive back Davontae Harris scooped up the ball and ran it all the way back for two points. The Redbirds now focus on preparing for the season opener at 6 p.m. Sept. 3 against Valparaiso at home.
Thanks to a summer at the Bright One
MY VIEW JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor After three and a half unforgettable months interning at the Chicago Sun-Times, I submitted my final story and turned in my press badge last week. This summer I covered teams I have dreamed of covering ever since I was a little kid. I was lucky enough to call Wrigley Field my office and the United Center my workplace. I interviewed athletes from all of Chicago’s professional sports teams and got to work with the 2016 U.S. Men’s Basketball team. When my internship began in May, I knew I was going to get bylines. But I never imagined that my stories on the Cubs and White Sox would be published in print on a regular basis. Nor did I ever think I would be published on the front cover. But all of that happened. And I can truly say this was the best summer of my life. A quick thank you to all the editors and writers I worked with in Chicago: Chris De Luca and Jeff Agrest: My two direct editors who worked patiently with me and helped me become a better writer everyday. Gordon Wittenmyer, Toni Ginnetti and Daryl Van Schouwen: A handful of the best beat writers in the business. You all taught me the grind of the beat and the importance of deadline writing. Jim Kirk: A former Vidette sports editor and Illinois State alum. Thank you, Jim and Chris, for taking a chance on me this summer. Jay Blunk: Blackhawks executive vice president, another former Vidette sports editor and Illinois State alum. Thank you for your continuous support for The Vidette and this great university. I also wouldn’t have been able to do the things I did this summer without the support of my mentors. Thank you to John Plevka and my many mentors associated with the Asian American Journalists Association Sports Task Force. I’m going to miss working for the Sun-Times, but I am excited to get back to covering Redbird athletics. Sure, some may say what a drop off from covering Jake Arrieta and Kris Bryant to FCS football and MVC basketball. But, hell, I love my job. I’m forever grateful for my time spent at the Bright One, but none of this would’ve been possible without The Vidette. I’m appreciative of everyone who has read my coverage of the Illinois State Redbirds, which started with women’s soccer back in 2014. I eventually worked my way up The Vidette ranks and began covering men’s basketball and football during my first go-around as a sports editor last year. As I enter my third and final year with The Vidette, I am joined by a new editorial staff and co-editor, along with the biggest sports staff I have worked with since I started at The Vidette. I hope you are all ready for some of the best times of your college career. The Vidette truly is a game changer. I’m ready for this last ride and I am excited to bring back what I learned up in Chicago down to the little building on the corner of Locust and University streets. A little building I call home, The Vidette.