February 23, 2023

THE EDITOR

LETTER FROM

Legislators advance 'Don't Say Gay' bill

By Salome Cloteaux and Carter DeJong scclotea@iu.edu @CloteauxSalome cadejong@iu.edu | @dejong_carter

Donate to the IDS Legacy Fund

Adding to injury, the newspaper you are reading right now may exist in an entirely different form by the summertime. Due to our financial constraints and the recent loss of a major print advertiser, we are struggling to come up with a way to produce our weekly print paper.

In short, the future of the IDS is once again uncertain.

It would be naive to say print is the only thing in danger. I, like much of our staff, have often heard “the IDS will always exist” in response to our concerns. However, we should no longer blindly believe this, as much as we may want it to be true. Soon, the Media School will be under the leadership of a new dean. Whoever it ends up being will inherit a deficit of more than -$500,000.

I cannot say what they will decide to do with the IDS or our finances. Right now, none of us can.

Shortly after the original letter from the editors was published in 2021, the IDS, the Media School and the Office of the Provost agreed to let the IDS run a deficit under the Media School for a period of three years. We are now more than halfway through that time. While this saved us for the time being, it was not the final solution.

The statement reassured, “All parties involved are committed to the continuing existence of the publication, as well as to its editorial independence and the quality of its journalism.” While we hope this is still

idsnews.com/donate

the case, the IDS, the Media School and the Office of the Provost have met together only one time since the publication of the letter. As of now, there is no long-term plan for the IDS’s financial future. We are still committed to ensuring that future, but it is something that cannot be decided without assistance from those groups. Any decision we make regarding the economic structure of the organization must be supported by those in power at the Media School. We are an editorially independent organization. We decide what we report on and how we report on it. All of our staffers are students, from the reporters all the way up to myself, and we alone make decisions regarding our coverage. With that freedom, we have been able to push the boundaries of what it means to be a student newspaper.

The IDS is and will continue to be a major news outlet for the Bloomington community. We have expanded our coverage into local politics and city life in a meaningful way and will continue to do so. We want to provide this essential reporting, but in order to do that we need to ensure that our future is secure.

Yesterday, the IDS celebrated its 156th birthday as a student publication producing vital coverage for the IU and greater Bloomington community. It was a day to acknowledge our great successes as an organization. We have published groundbreaking investigations, kept the community up to date on countless developing stories and provided training for hundreds of students who went on to become awardwinning journalists and media professionals. We’re able to do this because the IDS is an incredible

place. It is the reason we keep working to be better journalists. It is the reason readers will know a little bit more about themselves and their neighbor. It is the reason all of us graduate with a true understanding of what it means to serve our community. The IDS isn’t a club. It isn’t a class. And if we want it to continue to have the significance it does, I hope people consider why it isn’t any of those things.

I don’t want to lose what this place is, and I know others feel the same.

I wish I could tell you that donations alone will save us. While donations are incredibly helpful and we appreciate each and every dollar, we know there needs to be a long-term solution in addition to people’s generosity. Waiting was not an option in 2021, and it certainly isn’t now.

So, I am here to repeat exactly what was said then: We need a comprehensive solution.

Our director, Jim Rodenbush, is anticipating a meeting with leaders of the Media School scheduled to happen shortly. Our hope is from those discussions, we can look at tangible options for our newsroom. When I applied to take on this role as editor-in-chief, I began exploring alternative options for us, but none of these changes can be implemented within the semester. Any change needs to include a continuous conversation outside of meetings.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for supporting local student journalism. With any luck, we will have the honor of serving you for many more years in the future.

Student film ‘Dancing Man’ to premiere at IU Cinema

By Gino Diminich gdiminic@iu.edu | @GinoDiminichII

“Dancing Man,” a new short film from IU graduate student Robert Mack, will premiere at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at IU Cinema. The event is free, but tickets are available through the IU Cinema website.

Mack’s newest short film follows David, a young ballet dancer who finds himself unmotivated by his career. Losing himself in a fantasy world, David is torn between the girl he loves and the chance for his dream career offered by a new choreographer.

Co-directed by Mack and IU alumna Clarisse Gamblin with an original score by IU alumna Yi-Chen Chiang, the film was shot in Bloomington over the course of

four days in April 2022. The short shooting period kept Mack on his toes, ready for anything to happen, he said.

“Flexibility is the name of the game in independent filmmaking,” Mack said.

“It’s not about the biggest production value, it’s working with what you’ve got, and luckily Bloomington is a very supportive city for the arts.”

Mack used the landscape of Bloomington and IU’s campus as the set for his film, and despite the film’s 20-minute runtime, Mack said he and his team had several different locations to set up and shoot, making for a long but productive four days.

SEE FILM PAGE 4

COURTESY PHOTO

INDIANAPOLIS — A sea of rainbow cascaded down the steps outside the Indiana Statehouse, where protesters adorned with pride flag capes and colorful accessories were lining up on the cold Monday morning.

One at a time, they slowly trickled inside the building. A few times, someone tried to start a chant “No hate in our state! No hate in our state!” — but those quickly died down. It was only 7:30 a.m. — they had a long day ahead and they needed to save their energy.

The ACLU of Indiana called for a rally at the Indiana Statehouse Feb. 20 to oppose House Bill 1608, which was being heard in the House Education Committee. The bill, often compared to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, would prohibit school employees from providing instruction on human sexuality to students in kindergarten through third grade.

The bill received backlash from protesters saying it sends a dangerous message to LGBTQ+ Hoosiers, while supporters of the bill said it protects the rights of parents to teach sensitive topics to their children themselves.

HB 1608 is one of the number of bills targeting LGBTQ+ youth that have been introduced in the state House and Senate, which critics have called a “slate of hate”. The ACLU of Indiana called on Hoosiers to pack the Statehouse again on Feb. 22 to protest Senate Bill 480, a bill that would prohibit physicians from performing gender transition procedures on minors.

• • •

The hallway outside the Indiana House chamber was swarming with protesters. Hundreds of people from all over Indiana — teachers, students, families with young children — all squeezed together into one giant clump in front of the chamber window, united by a common purpose.

The excitement of the crowd was almost palpable, as if the single layer of glass separating it from the legislators could crack any minute, releasing a rushing rainbow wave into the chamber. The floor vibrated under the feet of the protestors stomping to the beat of their chant.

“We say gay!”

“Gay!”

“We say gay!”

“Gay!”

For 20 minutes they repeated the chant nonstop. Despite the hot, stuffy air and the indifference from many of the legislators inside, their collective voice never faltered.

***

After hours of debate and public testimony, the House

Education Committee voted along party lines to approve the bill 9-4. The full House will now hear the bill before sending it to the Senate.

Rep. Michelle Davis, RDistrict 58, authored the bill, with Rep. Jake Teshka, Rep. Chris Jeter and Rep. Robert Heaton as co-authors.

"The goal of House Bill 1608 is to empower Hoosier parents by reinforcing that they’re in the driver's seat when it comes to introducing sensitive topics to their children,” Davis said during the hearing. “Parents know what is best for their children and their authority should not be superseded by teachers and school administrators.”

Davis said the bill is common sense legislation that supports parents’ fundamental rights to be involved in decisions about their children.

An amendment was added to the bill requiring teachers in Indiana public schools to notify the parents if a student changes their gender identity or preferred name or pronouns. School employees would be required to use only the name and pronouns to identify a student consistent with their sex unless the parent requested a change in writing.

The original bill banned discussion or instruction about gender fluidity, gender roles, gender stereotypes, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation. Another amendment removed that list of topics and changed the bill to prohibit young students from being taught about “human sexuality,” which Davis described as “the way people experience and express themselves sexually.” Under the bill, teachers will still be able to respond to questions from students about human sexuality.

Davis said the bill aims to prohibit sexual education for students in third grade and below because that is not an appropriate topic for young students. She conceded that Indiana students are not currently learning sex education in those grades.

• • • Inside the house chamber, members of the House Education Committee struggled to be heard over the roar of the crowd on the other side of the glass.

Chants of “Kill the bill!” and “Shut it down!” drowned out the voices of the authors of HB 1608 as they debated the amendments.

“You should be ashamed!” one man shouted from the gallery. “You should be ashamed!”

He was immediately removed from the chamber by Indiana State Police at the direction of Chairman Robert Behning.

The chanting died down when public testimony started. But for more than three hours, the demonstrators cheered when opponents of the bill spoke and booed for the bill’s supporters.

SEE BILL PAGE 4

INSIDE,

Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday SOURCE: ETHAN STEWARD | ETBSTEWA@IU.EDU GRAPHICS BY: THE WEATHER CHANNEL Feb. 23 Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Feb. 28 Feb. 29 68° 26° 42° 32° 50° 34° 56° 47° 63° 38° 50° 31° 54° 46° P: 0% P: 0% P: 20% P: 50% P: 80% P: 0% P: 0%

"Dancing Man," co-directed by Robert Mack and Clarisse Gamblin, to premiere at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 26, 2023 at IU Cinema. The short film is created by an IU graduate student.

IU 2023 student executive candidates announced

By Mackenzie Lionberger mlionber@iu.edu | @ Mackenzie_L42

IU Student Government has begun the electoral progress for next year's representatives.

The current candidates will be replacing Kyle Seibert, student body president, and Bell Pastore, IUSG vice president. The Presidential Inauguration for the president-elect and vice president-elect will occur.

The presidential tickets have been announced along with their ticket name. The first group is Diversity, Advocacy, Retention and Engagement, with presidential candidate Joa’Quinn Griffin and vice president candidate Jayan Hammons. Excel IU includes presidential candidate Brink Wolak and vice president candidate Megan Flynn. Revive for IU’s ticket includes presidential candidate Lillian Rodgers and vice president candidate Aiden Chism. IGNITE includes presidential candidate Aaliyah Raji and vice president candidate Marsha Koda.

The candidate debate for presidential tickets will be on Feb. 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Dogwood Room in the IMU. On March 2, the Presidential Candidate Town Hall will be conducted at 6 p.m. in the Maple Room in the IMU. Students will be allowed to ask candidates running for president and vice president

questions at both events.

Election day will take place on March 7 and 8. Students will receive an email from the IU Division of Student Affairs with a link to cast their ballots. Voting will last for 36 hours, beginning at 10 a.m. March 7 and concluding at 10 p.m., March 8. The results will be announced between March 11-13, according to the IUSG Campaign Guide of Spring 2023.

IUSG is working on using social media to spread information on the current election to inform students. The social media account regularly posts updates on the election and other IUSG related news.

“We’re working with Congress to have more of an outreach progress,” said Mary Stafford, co-chair commission for the election.

The current Instagram used by the election commission doesn’t have as many followers as IUSG. The goal is to move that information to the IUSG Instagram, according to Strafford. Currently the IUSG Election Commission Instagram has 152 followers and IUSG followers stand at 2,035.

Candidates Raji and Koda have started campaigning through social media. They have created an Instagram account that has over 272 followers to spread information about

the campaign. The theme of their campaign pertains to believing in the power of engaging with students. They have provided a survey for students to take, with questions asking what students would like to see from IUSG in the upcoming semester.

Griffin and Hammons have also launched their

own Instagram account that has 134 followers. The account has posted experience Griffin has obtained from previously serving for three different IUSG, according to their account. Chism said that if elected, Rodgers and his administration would focus on students, especially their

BBC owner innovates in the world of bagels

By Gentry Keener gekeener@iu.edu

On the first morning that the Bloomington Bagel Company was open, the owner Sue Aquila said she had no money left. She couldn’t even afford a toaster, she said.

On that morning, they unlocked the doors and flipped the open sign. Steam rose from the freshly baked bagels and everything was perfect. The first customer, Katie Weismiller, walked in and requested a toasted bagel. Although Aquila tried to explain that they don’t toast fresh bread, Weismiller wasn’t buying it. They have now been married for 25 years.

Now, 27 years later, BBC remains a top bagel spot for the Bloomington community. With four locations — North Dunn Street, North Morton Street, South College Avenue and East Third Street — the company is accessible from many different areas in town. As a New Yorker, Aquila was tired of not having a good, fresh-baked bagel here in town. With many shops only selling steamed bagels that are shipped into town frozen, Aquila said, she dreamed of making fresh baked bagels. So she started the journey to open her own shop.

Having a 30-page business plan, some financial and mentorship help from a relative, a teacher from the Bagel Bakers Union to teach her how to make bagels from scratch and a storefront off Kirkwood Avenue up for lease, the stars aligned and Aquila opened the first BBC location in 1996.

BBC is a female-run business. With Aquila as the owner and Dawn Keough as the CEO, the duo said they have

created a community of love and acceptance.

“We’re always focused on supporting women, supporting people in the LGBTQ community,” Aquila said. “In the context of supporting all the communities in our community, we try very hard to do that.”

This is something that sets them apart from other restaurants in town, Aquila said.

BBC has become a safe place for many students struggling alone during the COVID-19 pandemic. They created a community during the pandemic for both staff and customers that has had a lasting effect, she said.

In return, much of the Bloomington community is equally supportive of BBC and Aquila herself.

Aquila recounted a story a story of when a group from Kentucky learned she was gay. With bibles in hand, the group from Old Paths Baptist Church began protesting outside the store. Preaching against homosexuality,

the group stood out there for hours.

However, the community didn’t let her stand alone, Aquila said.

“I will never forget: there was a female student who was a regular,” Aquila said. “She drove by, leaned her head out the window and yells at them, ‘Not only am I gay, I’m Jewish too,’ and continues driving.”

Members of the community keep coming back day and day again, with a line wrapping around the building on many weekends, she said.

BBC has expanded since then. The store released a new online ordering service for bagels. Customers can currently test out their new Hot Cheeto bagel — which will be returning this weekend after high –demand

An employee at the East Third Street location even experimented with crushed-up Dorito cream cheese, which will also be available this weekend.

“That’s the beauty of mak-

ing everything from scratch,” Aquila said. “We have the ability to try things.”

Aquila said she feels fortunate to have so many people surrounding her and helping her create and execute these ideas.

Dawn Keough, the original creator the Hot Cheeto bagel and the “Wake and Bakes” (a hashbrown on a breakfast sandwich), is one of those people.

Although Keough always dreamed of going back to law school, the family dynamic and comfort of BBC was a stronger pull.

“It’s such a family,” Keough said. “Sue and I always joke that we are each other's longest relationship.”

The two have created an environment that Keough describes as having all the tolerance in the world.

“It isn’t just the handmade aspect,” Keough said. “it’s also the personality, the sense of humor, the quirkiness and the offbeat personality. It mixes perfectly.”

service to graduate students. As of now, there are seven open grad student seats that are unfilled.

“Having a stronger relationship with just grad students as a whole along with grad student government would create a united force to make substantive change,” said Chism.

Seibert would like to see the continuation of student health prioritized for the next administration. New implications to improve student health services is an issue he claims his administration worked on and would like to see that carry out into policies for next year.

IU researcher develops new ALS therapy

By Andrew Miller ami3@iu.edu | @andrew_mmiller

IU researcher Chandler Walker has developed a new stem cell-based therapy called secretome for treating Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, which will likely be entering clinical trials this year or next.

ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that impacts the movement and physical function of those diagnosed. ALS attacks the body by causing the degeneration of upper motor neurons in the brain and lower motor neurons in the spine, Walker said.

“When you tell your hand to close, that’s utilizing this upper and lower motor neuron interaction,” Walker said. “In ALS, those specific neurons die, other types of neurons do not, so what you end up with is progressive paralysis and weakness.”

When ALS attacks motor neurons that regulate breathing, ALS becomes extremely dangerous, Walker said. Therapies like secretome have the potential to slow the progression of ALS. By protecting and regenerating these motor neurons, Walker said secretome will impede the onset of the disease.

Secretome is a molecule that is secreted by mesenchymal stem cells. Walker said experiments on mice and early clinical studies are underway. He hopes to enter clinical trials as soon as possible.

Siobhan Ellison, president of eurodegenerative Disease Research inc., helps secure funding for research about ALS. She said Walker’s research has a good shot at being able to get to patients soon.

“I think he’s now probably about four or five years out from having a therapy to go into patients,” Ellison

said. Clinical trials are often highly variable processes — so it would be impossible to make a definitive timeline — with both animal and human trials, as well as multiple processes of review. However, Ellison emphasized the importance of urgency in ALS research. As people live through its effects, getting treatment for patients is the number one priority, Ellison said.

Christen Mumaw, a laboratory manager at the IU School of Dentistry and research analyst with Walker’s team, highlighted the impact this therapy will have if it passes clinical trials.

“If it pans out, it’s going to be life-changing for lots of people,” Mumaw said. “One in 50,000 people are impacted by ALS so it could really make a big difference for those people.”

Mumaw said that secretome therapy has the potential to benefit other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

“Especially with things like Alzheimer’s disease, we all know somebody who is impacted,” Mumaw said. “I think neuroscience and neurodegenerative disorders as a whole are getting a lot more attention now.”

JOY BURTON | IDS

Two IU Student Government members hold hands as they gather following an executive branch meeting. IUSG has begun the electoral progress for next year’s representatives.

The great American flood: guns

Carolyn Marshall (she/her)

is a sophomore majoring in media studies focusing in TV, digital and film production and minoring in English.

As of July 1, 2022, citizens who are 18 years or older in Indiana are not legally required to have a permit for open or concealed carry of guns. I don’t understand how these laws are going to decrease the amount of lives lost due to gun violence.

The need for changes in government policy over gun rights is raised every day. However, anyone voicing their opinion on the matter could cause a debate with friends or relatives with different political beliefs. Debates on how to obtain safety for the general population quickly turns from a discussion on saving lives to who’s right and who’s wrong.

Some believe that training teachers and even students how to use a gun is safer. Others believe that making it more difficult to buy guns is safer.

As of 2017, there are 12.5 guns per person in the U.S., which is approximately equal to 393 million guns — the highest total per capita number in the world.

Guns are easy to obtain and have been the cause of lives being taken in a matter of seconds. Instead of taking action to strengthen gun control, laws like the

one mentioned before reflect the continued increase in access to these weapons.

Recently, it seems that there has been a lack of bipartisan cooperation in fixing this problem. I believe that both sides of the political realm have a goal of maintaining the integrity of what it is to have freedom and their work needs to fo-

cus less on which side will win and more on the safety of fellow humans.

New York Times journalists Michael Corkery and Zackary Canepari covered the way that shootings in schools have become a major business sales pitch for companies. A self-defense with guns trainee charges $1,000 per lesson. The

schools mentioned within the article pay large sums of money to train teachers how to shoot a gun and to install defense mechanisms like bullet-resistant tables.

While I read this article, all I could think was that this money should be going toward textbooks, notebooks, student scholar-

JARED’S JOURNAL

MARSHALL

ships and maybe even pay raises for teachers. Putting a device that causes death into the hands of what should be everyday educators or everyday people allows Americans to have even more access to these weapons.

By providing more opportunities for people to obtain guns, we are nor-

malizing the usage of violence for children, exposing them to these tactics of defense at a young age. By making guns more acceptable, we forget that the violent people who carry out actions resulting in devastation were able obtain the weapon easily and quickly.

As reflected in the current gun laws of Indiana, I myself have the ability to obtain a gun without having to first get a permit or a gun license. That scares me, because if I can do it that easily, so can someone else.

Change needs to happen, and it needs to happen in a way where people still feel freedom to protect themselves, while others feel safe. Installing requirements of licenses and permits would prevent someone who has dangerous intentions from obtaining a gun and carrying through with their intended action.

Opposing sides on this matter need to understand that we all are reaching for a common goal: to feel safe. Within my own conversations with others, this topic often devolves into a full on debate of what solution is better than the other. We need to listen to each other to create a solution to better protect the lives of students and teachers and all others who have been affected by gun violence.

caremars@iu.edu

Gamers of the world, unite!: how capitalism is ruining gaming

Jared Quigg (he/him) is a junior studying journalism and political science.

Gamers are the most oppressed group of people under capitalism.

OK, that’s not really true, but our economic system certainly is spoiling our fun, whether you make video games or simply play them.

Now, I’m not much of a gamer myself. I used to be a gamer, but now I’m more of a dabbler. I dabble. And I dabbled hard last week when Nintendo surprise released a remastered edition of their classic game “Metroid Prime.” When it came out, I neglected everything and spent hours and hours rotting my brain playing a favorite game from my teens.

While I was busy shooting virtual aliens in glori-

Feb 23, 2023 idsnews.com

ous HD, I didn’t really stop to think about the workers who made it all possible. The capitalist system is mystifying. When we go to the store to buy a product, we don’t often question how the product came to be there, who made it or the conditions in which they worked. There is simply an interaction between commodities, between things –money and product. We do have some information about the developers who worked on the original “Metroid Prime” at Retro Studios 20 years ago and the picture isn’t pretty. As the deadline for the game’s release inched closer, Retro employees were forced to work 80-to-100 hour weeks, often sleeping at their desks and unable to see family during the last nine months of the game’s development.

This phenomenon is all too common in the gaming industry and is often referred to as “crunch time,” mandatory overtime usually without extra pay. According to a 2019 International Game Developers survey, some 40% of game developers reported working crunch time at least once over the course of the previous year, usually consisting of an extra 20 hours on top of a 40-hour workweek.

The practices of the gaming industry are perfectly summed up by Karl Marx, whose words from over 150 years ago still ring true.

“Capital has one single life impulse, the tendency to create value and surplus-value…” Marx wrote in 1867. “Capital is dead labor, that, vampire-like, only lives by sucking living

labor, and lives the more, the more labor it sucks. The time during which the laborer works, is the time during which the capitalist consumes the labor-power he has purchased of him. If the laborer consumes his disposable time for himself, he robs the capitalist.”

But capitalism isn’t just a vampiric system for those who make the games – it’s also a detriment to those who play them.

Video games are already expensive, with many costing $60 or more on top of the high price of gaming consoles. And once you’ve spent all this money, what are you left with? Oftentimes, unfinished games urging you to spend more money on microtransactions and downloadable content (DLC).

Microtransactions, or in-game purchases, are

mostly just for cosmetics – spend a little extra, and your character can have a cool costume. This seems to be problematic on its own, but it gets much worse. With some games, you can spend extra money to get advantages over other players, a phenomenon which has been dubbed “pay-towin.” Gone are the days when you had to play a game a lot to get good at it – now, with the power of money, you can crush your competition with ease.

Besides microtransactions in games, there is also the problem of DLC. The usual story goes like this: you spend $60 on a game, and then a few months later (sometimes less!), the developers announce that you can spend more money on additional content for the game you’ve already pur-

Students are being told to ignore history

of the process,” Williams said.

By Maria McComish mwoodmcc@iu.edu | @mccomish_maria

An Alabama high school organized a walkout on Feb. 8, after students were told they could not reference events before the 1970s in their Black History Month presentation. Over 200 students participated to represent their frustration with such harmful limitations.

Hillcrest High School administration said the students “couldn’t talk about slavery and civil rights because one of our administrators felt uncomfortable.”

IU professor and leader Dr. Jakobi Williams calls that “poor leadership.” As chair of the African American and African Diaspora Studies Department, Williams has studied civil Rrghts, Black Power, social justice and African American history.

“I am very proud of those students for standing up and walking out and making this a national issue,” Williams said. “If you don’t raise the issue, then these folks will get away with it.”

He explained potential steps students could take to prevent this from happening in the future.

“Walking out is just part

“Now you have to make some demands. The demands have to be institutional changes and policy changes.”

He went on to emphasize the importance of all marginalized students being able to see their contributions in history books.

“If we have to learn about George Washington chopping down the cherry tree myth, then you should be learning about the struggle for African American rights, Latino rights, Indigenous rights and so forth and so on,” Williams said. “This is also part of the American story.”

Unfortunately, this attempt to erase history is not an isolated incident. Stories of legislation working to keep education as white as possible have been appearing in headlines more and more as of late.

In Janurary, the Florida Department of Education rejected an AP African American Studies course being implemented into high school curriculum. At the end of last year, Gov. Rob DeSantis of the same state implemented legislation that would allow parents to pull their children out of important lessons and would abolish the teaching

of gender identity and sexual orientation in K-3 classrooms.

Indiana may be following suit soon. Bills to ban the teaching of gender identity, gender roles, and sexual orientation in schools have been filed by Republican party lawmakers. This would also involve parental control when it comes to K-12 education.

“These are not new phenomenons. These are just the latest iterations of the struggle,” Williams said. “Here we are, asking in 2023, ‘Can I learn about my history and my role in society?’ And one person can decide, ‘No, because it makes me feel uncomfortable.’”

The struggle continues, he said, but children can learn from mistakes of the past, and add that to the innovation of the future to continue fighting against unfair guidelines and legislation.

Hillcrest High senior Jamiyah Brown, organizer of the walkout, puts their frustration into words, illustrating the urgency and stakes of the situation.

“Without our history, we are nothing,” Brown said. “Without teaching our youth where we come from, how can we move forward?”

chased.

This is an admittedly genius scheme the capitalists have hatched. If the only goal is to accumulate more and more money, then why wouldn’t you release an unfinished product and then charge the player more to finish it?

This isn’t just some socialist conspiracy theory, either. “Super Smash Bros.” developer Masahiro Sakurai called DLC a “scam” in 2015 and charged the industry with selling unfinished games in order to make more money. And so, I call on the gamers of the world to unite for the cause of dismantling this corrupt and brutal economic system. You have nothing to lose but your chains. You have virtual worlds to win.

jaquigg@iu.edu

ILLUSTRATION BY CAROLYN

How would the bill affect students?

Some members of the public who supported the bill voiced their concerns about exposing children to controversial and inappropriate topics at a young age during public testimony.

“I do not want my naïve and innocent third grader exposed to such sexualized concepts,” Ted Adams, a trial and prosecuting attorney, said. “It does not belong in the classroom at a tender age.” IU student and Bloomington City Council candidate Conner Wright said he spoke at the testimony to oppose the bill as an ally for his LGBTQ friends, some of whom are on track to become teachers for kindergarten through third grade.

“I’ve heard a lot of concern about the impact of teaching kids inappropriate things at too young of an age,” Wright said. “But what about the impact of teaching kids they should hide their true selves to exist in school? What about the impact of teaching kids that if they’re

different, that’s something they should be ashamed of?”

Many members of the public said LGBTQ students are already a vulnerable community, and this bill would only continue to make them feel unwelcome and unaccepted.

“Is the act of sharing who people love so heinous that it must be banned? I certainly don’t think so,” Wright said. “Not more so than teaching kids to hide their differences for fear of not being accepted by the world.”

Claire Curran, a student at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, said the bill tells LGBTQ people that they should be hidden from society and that they don’t deserve to take up space.

“In continuing to utilize rhetoric that paints LGBTQ people as inappropriate for children by the broad language in this bill, we contribute to the systemic dehumanization of LGBTQ people,” Curran said. “This dehumanization is dangerous, and it is life threatening.”

How would the bill affect teachers?

Some of the educators

who testified are concerned that HB 1608 would prevent them from being able to support LGBTQ students.

“It feels like a gag order,” Pike Township Schools psychologist Kristie Carter said. “How can we support children in K through third grade who are internalizing and externalizing conflicts, whatever they may be? Almost any topic a child brings up can fall under human sexuality.”

Some opponents of the bill said it is too vague and ambiguous. It could create a chilling effect in the classroom because it is not clear about what topics teachers are permitted to talk about.

“I don't like the idea of not being able to talk to my kids just about the way that different people live their lives, because at some point they're going to meet a gay person probably before anyone tells them what being gay is,” IU student and student teacher Sophie Cahlamer said outside the statehouse. “Doing it in a classroom where there's thought put into it and care put into it is important, and not saying it, it's just erasing the fact that we exist.”

Katie Blair, the director of advocacy and public policy for the ACLU of Indiana, said if passed, the bill would prevent any mention of LGBTQ people in classrooms.

Under HB 1608, Blair said LGBTQ teachers could be breaking the law just by mentioning they are married.

“Teachers who happen to be transgender could lose their jobs simply for existing,” Blair said. “It bans teachers from using language validating their identity. This turns teachers into gender police.”

Pastor Dakota Roberts of St. Peter's United Church of Christ said that the Indiana legislature should leave classroom decisions up to teachers and school boards.

SCAN TO CONTINUE READING

“To try and get everything you need to get in four days is insane,” Mack said.

“There was a lot to do and a lot of complicated dance sequences; we were shooting in different locations, so we’d have to pack up and go to the next place, but we pulled together.”

After filming wrapped, the post-production phase of the film began. Aside from editing the film, Mack decided to give an extra flavor to the dance numbers by recording portions of Chiang’s score live in studio with Jacobs School of Music musicians.

“The music is a character in the movie and adds so much to get the rich, bigger sound that older dance movies had,” Mack said. “We wanted to get actual musicians so that it didn’t sound entirely computerized.”

Mack also felt it crucial to use real musicians for portions of the score to deepen the film’s ties with the IU student community.

“This is an IU homegrown movie; this is a movie being made with students and alums of the Media School and the ballet department,” Mack

General Health

Austin C. Starr, D.D.S

Dr. Starr is an Indiana University Football Alum who provides pain-free experiences for all Hoosiers with IV sedation. He performs specialized oral surgery services including Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Dental Implants, Bone Grafting, and Plasma Therapy. Equipped with modern 3-D technology, he has the most up-to-date surgical skills and techniques to accomplish beautiful results with his patients. He looks forward to accomplishing beautiful results with his patients, enhancing confidence and satisfaction for all he serves.

Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

We look forward to taking care of you! Go Hoosiers!

473 S. Landmark Ave. 812-318-1023 starroralsurgery.com

Optometry

py

DDiChiOD

Dr. Diana Christensen, O.D. Tessa Shaw, L.E.

At Allure Eyecare + Aesthetics we do more than comprehensive eye care. We specialize in dry eye treatment and spa services to help you have healthy eyes and skin.

Owner & Optometrist, Dr. Diana Christensen and Tessa Shaw, L.E., have teamed up to bring the latest technology for eye exams and dry eye treatment such as OptiLight IPL. “We love making you look,see and feel your best!” Schedule online or call us:

3655 S. Sare Rd. 812-727-7444 www.allure-eyes.com

Mon.- Wed., Fri.: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thu.: 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Every other Saturday

Monroe Hospital is an award winning 32-bed hospital located in beautiful Bloomington, Indiana. A member of the Prime Healthcare health system, Monroe Hospital is committed to providing Bloomington and surrounding communities a choice for superior healthcare, ever mindful of each patient’s individual and unique needs.

Front Lobby: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Emergency Dept.: open 24 hrs

X-Ray Lab & Respiratory: open 24 hours

4011 S. Monroe Medical Park Blvd. 812-825-1111 monroehospital.com

Physicians

Dr. Vasquez is a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon specializing in progressive endovascular treatments. Over 20 years experience in treating varicose veins, peripheral vascular disease, aortic aneurysm and carotid disease, including angioplasty and stenting.

Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 815 W. Second St. 812-336-6008 vascularcenterandveinclinic.com

Sarah Tieman, MD Gregory Sutliff, MD Elizabeth Simon, LCAC Shashanka Nethi, MBBS

Nubia McVey, FNP-C

Theresa McClure, FNP

Kristen Bunch, CNM, FNP-BC

Ordonio Reyes, DDS Steven Felde, DDS HealthNet Bloomington Health Center provides high-quality, affordable health care services to adults and children. Services include Primary Care, Behavioral Health, Dental, STI Testing & Treatment, Birth Control, Gender Affirming Care, and much more! We accept all Medicaid plans and most commercial insurance. A sliding fee scale discount is available for those who are eligible.

Mon., Wed., Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tue.: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. 811 W. Second St. 812-333-4001 indyhealthnet.org/locations/ bloomington-health-center

Massage Therapy

said. “We have a Jacobs alum composing, and I thought — to really bring in the most this campus had to offer — we should bring in the musicians as well.”

The film utilizes students of the Jacobs School of Music ballet theater department for fantastical dance sequences, sewn carefully throughout the film to ensure the dancing didn’t overshadow the human drama and vice versa.

“Every scene matters,” Mack said. “We had to make sure every dance sequence was adding to the story.”

The dance scenes — which express the main character’s desire for better times — were heavily inspired by Mack’s love of classic Hollywood dance films.

“I grew up watching Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly; these movies inspired me to dance,” Mack said. “The way they told these larger-than-life stories through dance is charming and irreplaceable.”

“Dancing Man” will be shown alongside Mack’s other short films, “Chisel” and “North,” at IU Cinema, followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers and cast members.

Care

Dr. Josh Chapman

At Chapman Orthodontics, we know what you look for in an orthodontist: someone who is professional, experienced, outgoing and dedicated to helping you achieve your very best smile! We offer free consultations for children, teens and adults. Let us give you a smile you can be proud of using state of the art technology and cutting edge treatment options. We offer clear braces and Invisalign. Chapman Orthodontics is a privately owned orthodontic practice. Dr. Josh Chapman attended IU Bloomington for undergraduate and received his Doctor in Dental Surgery (DDS) and Masters (MSD) in Orthodontics at IU school of Dentistry in Indy. Go Hoosiers!

Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 3925 E. Hagan St., Suite 201 812-822-2489 bloomingtonbraces.com

Dr. Zachary Short, O.D.

Dr. Madison Witthoft, O.D.

Welcome to Insights Optical, where quality eye care is our number one priority. Our dedicated team is ready to learn all about you and your vision needs while using innovative technology and a comprehensive care approach to take care of your eye health.

Mon.: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Wed.: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Tue., Thu., Fri.: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 415 S. Clarizz Blvd. 812-333-1911 insightsoptical.com

Brian Logue, M.D. Eric Smith, M.D. Dave Elkins, P.A.C. Board certified physicians with over 70 years combined experience. Services include: kidney stones, urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, prostate problems, same day emergency appointments and vasectomy.

Mon. - Wed.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Thu.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Fri.: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 2907 S. McIntire Dr. 812-332-8765 summiturology.com

Chiropractic specializes in comprehensive spinal care. We offer treatment for many different spinal conditions and problems, while also addressing the body as a whole. We provide effective chiropractic care helping patients reduce stress, improve mobility and spinal health. The

Carmela Senior-Euhl, LMT Mary Stroup, LMT Rachelle Hope, LMT Sarah Gershon, LMT Samantha Willoughby, LMT Cinnamon Love, LMT Rebekah Taylor, LMT Kelly Weldon, Licensed Esthetician Bloomington Massage & Bodyworks with a new movement studio, is the longest running massage practice in Bloomington. With a passion for quality work. Celebrating 25 years in business, we provide therapeutic massage. Along with new, expanded services in Esthetics, Cupping, EnergyWork, Yoga & Movement classes. We look forward to continuing our dedication to the community and clients. Committed to helping you feel the best, because you deserve it. Visit our website: www. bloomingtonbodyworks.com

Mon. - Sat.: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sun.: 12:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. 101 W. Kirkwood Ave, Suite 127 812-333-4917 bloomingtonbodyworks.com

Ryan D. Tschetter, DDS Lauren Hoye, DDS Jackson Creek Dental is conveniently located on South College Mall Road. Most insurances accepted, including the Indiana University Cigna Insurance plans as well as the IU Fellowship Anthem. Dr. Tschetter and Dr. Hoye offer state of the art dental technology such as Zoom whitening, same day crown appointments, and Invisalign. We also provide restorative, cosmetic and emergency care. We pride ourselves in giving the best care to our patients while offering a pleasant yet professional atmosphere.

Mon. - Thu.: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri.: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. 1124 S. College Mall Rd. 812-336-5525 jcdsmiles.com

Austin C. Starr, D.D.S

Dr. Starr is an Indiana University Football Alum who provides pain-free experiences for all Hoosiers with IV sedation. He performs specialized oral surgery services including Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Dental Implants, Bone Grafting, and Plasma Therapy. Equipped with modern 3-D technology, he has the most up-to-date surgical skills and techniques to accomplish beautiful results with his patients. He looks forward to accomplishing beautiful results with his patients, enhancing confidence and satisfaction for all he serves.

Go Hoosiers!

We look forward to taking care of you!

Mon. - Thu.: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. 473 S. Landmark Ave. 812-318-1023 starroralsurgery.com

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Indiana reaches heights it’s been building for years

By Will Foley wtfoley@iu.edu | @foles24

Indiana women’s basketball is no powerhouse historically. Yet in head coach Teri Moren’s tenure, the program has steadily built to achieve new heights never before reached, or for heights that have been reached, the first time in a long time. The Hoosiers clinched a share of the Big Ten regular season title with an 83-60 win over Purdue on Sunday, the culmination of what Moren has built.

“A lot of credit goes to Coach Moren, Grace (Berger) and Mack (Holmes) — they built this program,” junior guard Sydney Parrish said after the game. “They built it from the bottom. The staff, Grace, Mackenzie, the Tyra Busses and Ali Patbergs, they’re the ones who did it. We just kept chugging away.”

Graduate guard Grace Berger is the embodiment of the program’s rise to the top. In Berger’s freshman season, Indiana finished 8-10 in Big Ten play. That team lost in the second round of both the Big Ten tournament and the NCAA tournament, but it was just the beginning for what was to come. The next season in 201920 saw improvement, a 13-5 Big Ten record and 24-8 overall. However, it again lost in the second round of the Big Ten tournament to a Maryland program which continuously dominated Indiana. Due to COVID-19, there was no NCAA tournament to be held. 2020-21 was the season Indiana had dreamed of and been capable of. It went 16-2 in Big Ten play and 21-6 overall, but the alluring Big Ten championship was still unattainable. Maryland bested

Indiana by going 17-1 in the Big Ten, and a shocking loss to a mediocre Michigan State team sent Indiana home early from the Big Ten tournament. However, Indiana made a run to its first ever NCAA Elite Eight and the program’s successes continued to build.

Last season was plagued with injuries which produced a record regression — 11-5 in the Big Ten. Nonetheless, Indiana achieved a 3-seed in the NCAA tournament, its highest ever, and made a Sweet Sixteen appearance. Another good season but no hardware to show for it.

Finally, everything has come together for Berger and Indiana this season. Sunday’s win marked win number 16 in Big Ten play to just one loss, and a share of the Big Ten title — a feat Indiana has failed to accomplish since 1982-83 in the Big Ten’s inaugural women’s basketball season. For Berger to achieve it on Senior Day, it was a moment in the making.

“Just slowly building every single year and the new teams,” Berger said after the game. “The new people that came in this year have been the hardest working team in the Big Ten and in the country. You have to credit obviously the staff, but those players who came before us, too.”

It started earlier for Moren. She inherited a team that had gone 5-11 in Big Ten play and 21-13 overall, mostly due to a weaker schedule. In her first season in 2014-15, Moren’s team regressed — 4-14 in conference play and 15-16 overall, even losing to Moren’s prior team, Indiana State University, at home.

But Moren continued to build the program. Since her

first season, all but one of her teams have owned a winning conference record — Berger’s freshman season. Every single team has won 20 or more games. And now, finally, Moren has coached a regular season Big Ten champion.

“Just really proud of this group,” Moren said. “I’m really, really happy for not just this program, but for those kids in the locker room.”

Reflecting on Berger,

Moren choked up emotionally speaking on what Berger has endured in her career to get to the championship moment. “The work that it takes to accomplish something like this is not easy,” Moren said while holding back tears. “You have to have belief, and six years ago she believed in this program. She believed in me and the vision. And for that, I’ll always be grateful,

BASEBALL

because that’s what it takes.”

At 26-1 and ranked No. 2, Indiana isn’t just a Big Ten powerhouse, but rather it is becoming a national powerhouse. For Moren’s Hoosiers, the Big Ten regular season may be only the start of both a special season and a special future.

Business picks right back up in a week. In order to clinch the Big Ten title outright, Indiana will need

Iowa to lose one more game. If it does not do so at No. 9 Maryland on Tuesday, then a matchup in Iowa City between the Hoosiers and Hawkeyes will determine whether or not the title is split.

“As Grace said, we’ll celebrate tonight and then tomorrow we’ll turn our attention to a really good Iowa team,” Moren said. “That’s just what we do.”

Jessee’s home runs, Yoho’s strikeouts, shine in home-opening win

By Matthew Byrne matbyrne@iu.edu | @MatthewByrne1

Senior outfielder Hunter Jessee sharply rounded third base, pumping his arms even harder to accelerate. The outfield's tardy relay throw meant Jessee was guaranteed to score — and yet, he barreled over home plate.

Jessee got up, quickly shook his head to regroup, and jogged back to the dugout. That wasn't the most elegant slide. But hey, the run counts — the first of seven in the third inning of Indiana baseball's 13-5 victory over Miami University (Ohio) in Tuesday's home opener.

Jessee initially wasn't planning to slide. It wasn’t until Miami catcher Tommy Harrison threw up his arms, marking the target for the relay throw, that Jessee crashed onto the turf. Harrison didn’t even attempt to tag Jessee, who couldn't seem to make up his mind about how hard he hit the ground.

"I was like, 'I'm just going to get down to make sure,’ so

I got down not hard," Jessee said postgame. "Well, I got down hard.”

Jessee left the explanation there. But regardless, the senior shook off the bump, poking an oppositefield home run into Indiana's bullpen four innings later to extend the lead to 13-4. This marked Jessee's second-career multi-homer game. The senior had already clobbered one pitch 402 feet pull-side in the first inning to place Indiana up 1-0.

"When (Jessee) loads correctly and stays behind the ball, he is that kind of that rare combination of twitch and strength," Indiana head coach Jeff Mercer said postgame. "When he's in a good spot, he can leave the yard to anywhere as you saw today."

Jessee finished Tuesday's game batting 3-for-4: one single, later scoring on that slide, placed in between the two home runs. Jessee's team-leading four runs batted in set the senior's new career high.

Jessee went 0-for-5 at the

plate during Indiana's first two games of the season — both losses at Auburn University. In two victories after that — the final game at Auburn and Tuesday's home opener — Jessee has batted 7-for-9, with four extra-base hits. Why the sudden spike?

No, it's not because of any new tape, a new bat or wearing an undershirt inside-out for good luck, if college players even do that. But, Jessee's well-kept thick brown mustache did vanish.

"Oh, I had shaved it after the second game (at Auburn), right after," Jessee said. "Just needed to reset after the two losses."

That may be the reason behind the two home runs.

"Sure, we can call it that," Jessee joked. "But no, not really. A good approach, preparation before the game stuff, good scouting reports. We knew the starter, softthrowing, there was going to be a lot of off-speed going into the game. Looking for that, got it, and just got out front."

For Indiana's pitching game plan, Mercer elected

to throw nine pitchers in the midweek contest. Righthanded junior Seti Manase started the home opener and was credited with the win, despite only throwing one inning.

Senior right-hander Craig Yoho, making his first appearance in an Indiana uniform through three seasons, struck out five of the eight batters he faced in two innings.

"Everybody was so happy for me,” Yoho said. “That's the kind of team we are, we're a brotherhood. That's what we preach and it really shows when we compete. We want it just as bad for the other guys, as we want success for ourselves."

During Yoho’s freshman year in 2019, he suffered an injury after starting three games at the University of Houston. In 2020, COVID-19 halted the season, and Yoho only made one appearance. Yoho transferred to Indiana, but did not play in the 2021 season. And last year, as a junior, Yoho missed another season of his collegiate career due to an injury.

"He has come back from three surgeries now," Mercer said. "Craig was a big-time recruit out of high school, went to Houston and then transferred here during COVID. He was a position player and pitcher and to see him become the player he was — probably better than he's ever been.

You're just really happy for him." Indiana improves to 2-2 following the homeopening victory over Miami for the second consecutive season. The team's schedule continues this weekend at the University of Texas, in another three-game road series.

ALEX PAUL | IDS

Senior guard Grace Berger celebrates after cutting the net Feb. 19, 2023, at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall in Bloomington. Indiana beat Purdue 8360 to win a share of the regular season Big Ten title.

OLIVIA BIANCO | IDS Senior outfielder Hunter Jessee swings at a pitch from Miami (Ohio) Feb. 21, 2023 at Bart Kaufman Field in Bloomington. Jessee hit two homeruns in the 13-5 victory.

COLUMN: Get your head in the books, check out the library

By Leila Faraday lfaraday@iu.edu | @leilafaraday

Last week, I wrote an opinion piece in which I mentioned the importance of third places.

Third places — a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg — are physical spaces and communities besides your home or your workplace in which you can relax, do work and socialize in. While we have the lovely Herman B Wells Library right here on campus, I was curious to explore another third place option just down Kirkwood Avenue — the Monroe County Public Library.

The local library in my hometown was a staple part of my childhood. I would spend hours there after school with friends and on my own waiting for my parents to pick me up. But they are no longer the gathering spaces they once were and have been declining in usage over the last decade.

On summer days, I could be at the library all day laying around doing a homework packet, flipping through American Girl magazines to search for an overpriced camping outfit for my doll and racing to complete the library summer reading challenge.

Despite the fact that 65% of Americans live within 10 minutes of a library or community center, only three percent name libraries as their community space of choice. These publicly financed spaces should be more utilized and appreciated for their rich offerings and accessible resources.

While Wells is undoubtedly an impressive library with plenty of resources and spaces made just for IU stu-

dents, I sometimes find myself stressed about going there due to the swarms of dedicated study groups. Because it is located centrally on our college campus primarily for the purpose of academic work, it feels like less of a relaxed, mixeduse space than a traditional public library can be.

Hoping to dive back into the joys of a public community library, I signed up for a free MCPL card online in less than five minutes. Despite not being a Monroe County resident, my IU student status grants me access to a card. While you can sign up online, you will eventually need to go into the library to confirm your identity and receive the physical card.

An MCPL card provides instant access to several online streaming services and databases, as well as granting you the ability to check out their media offerings, reserve study rooms and sign up for community events, such as author talks and craft clubs.

Some of their most popular online resources include Libby, an app for eBook and audiobook downloads, and Hoopla, a multimedia streaming platform.

The MCPL instantly charmed me when I stepped foot through the doors last Friday afternoon. I was greeted with warmth and instant relief from the windy weather. Giggles from young children in whimsical costumes filled the room as they seemed to be preparing for a community theater show. People were sitting at tables in the center space surrounded by a spiral staircase enjoying lunch or doing work. The vast

children’s section on the first floor was full of natural light.

After receiving my card at the desk in the children’s section — and a rainbow unicorn sticker to congratulate me — I headed upstairs to the second floor adult section.

I spent half an hour wandering through the tall shelves and deciding what to check out. If you don’t have the time, though, you can find whichever book you are interested in on their digital catalog, or even place your hold online and have it prepared for you to pick up.

A “Blind Date with a Book” display was set up near the entrance, with wrapped books you could check out if you are looking for a surprise, or perhaps just not to judge a book by its cover.

Equipped with desk spaces, computers, internet and a printer, the library provides access to these essential technological resources for all community members—which is especially important for those who may not personally have access to these things.

Further, the library operates on a no-fee policy, meaning that as long as you turn in your book eventually, you will not be charged late fees.

For any students looking for their next study spot or hangout space, the MCPL is a valuable community area that provides access to useful resources and a safe, comfortable area to do work and hang out. Signing up for a library card and making use of their resources is a great way to support the library and ensure it stays open and accessible for years to come.

Grunwald Gallery hosts ‘Blanket Songs’ exhibit

RAISING THE HEAT ON FOREIGN POLICY MARCH 2-3

IU HAMILTON LUGAR SCHOOL AND LIVESTREAMED

The 8th annual America’s Role in the World® conference will examine pressing global challenges to foreign policy, convening scholars, diplomats, activists, journalists, and non-profit and government leaders. Among many panels, several discussions will focus on the climate crisis. We will also hear from journalists and regional experts — including Robert Malley, U.S. Special Envoy to Iran — on Iran’s antiregime protests and implications for foreign policy. Explore the conference schedule and join us!

By Oliver Arguello oarguell@iu.edu

Grunwald Gallery is hosting “Blanket Songs,” open until March 4. This display opened on Jan. 27 with a live performance by the artist, John Hitchcock. According to the artist’s website, Hitchcock is an award-winning contemporary artist, musician, professor and the associate dean of the arts at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It is free to the public and visitors can visit the gallery noon-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. The exhibit features work that derives inspiration from the contemporary artist’s Indigenous background by incorporating his childhood memories of growing up on Comanche Tribal lands in Oklahoma, and reinterpreting various indigenous customs, traditions and culture.

The gallery spotlights pieces such as neon sculptures, prints, audio, video and fabric work, alongside other objects that discuss themes of Indigenous identity and Native narratives.

Grunwald Gallery Director Betsy Stirratt said she first came across the artist when he was invited to the Eskenazi School of Art as a part of the McKinney Visiting Artist Series in 2021.

Stirratt said she familiarized herself with his work. When she formally approached him about a potential exhibit, they started talking about Leah Kolb, an

independent curator and arts consultant who he had met in Madison, Wisconsin, she said.

“I just thought it would be a really exciting project to put on,” Stirratt said. “Visually, it’s amazing, and there is a lot of important content behind the scenes which is great to showcase.” The content behind the featured pieces is compelling and captivating. There is a clear sense of appreciation for both traditional and contemporary artistic craft, as each work is packed with influence stemming from his childhood growing up in the Wichita Mountains in Oklahoma and interweaving Native culture and narratives into each featured piece. As a professor of screen printing, relief cut and installation art, the display personifies mastered technique while paying homage to his Indigenous roots.

“I like how it instantly immerses you into light, color and beautiful patterns,” Sarah Shutters, a senior at IU who visited the exhibit, said.

As seen on the exhibit introduction label, the title “Blanket Songs” refers to a tradition the artist observed in his childhood. His Kiowa grandfather and Comanche grandmother used to honor esteemed guests by wrapping blankets around them as a gift and symbol of respect and friendship.

The installation has a visual and auditory experience for visitors, focusing on pulling in the viewer through its

use of image, light, sound and movement. In the gallery, there is an audio-visual piece, a six-minute loop of spoken poems and music provided by the artist and his loved ones.

The exhibit also features multiple hand-beaded moccasins. The artist said in a gallery label that his grandmother specialized in beadwork and often encouraged him to work with her when he was younger. He practiced drawing the geometric shapes he saw in her designs, and from this, said he learned observational drawing. In many of his works, such abstract patterns are visible. According to the gallery, the moccasins are an example of Hitchcock’s language as an artist during his initial phases.

“The show is very layered, in a physical sense,” Linda Tien, the program coordinator at the Grunwald Gallery, said. “But also, in a conceptual sense in that he is layering his lived experience, cultural tradition and references both his Comanche Kiowa and Northern European background.”

Tien said she hopes visitors will take time to experience his work, listen to the audio and read his words to understand his perspective of his pieces.

“I hope that visitors will dive in with an openness and take a moment to hear about someone’s life that they may or may not be familiar with,” Tien said.

COLUMN: Normalize eating alone in the dining hall

By Ellie Adam ehadam@indiana.edu | @ellieeadam

Many college students fear the idea of eating alone in the dining hall, but it does not have to be this way. You do not need to sit with friends to enjoy a delicious meal.

I can confidently say I only know two people that have no problem with eating alone. There is a good chunk of students who will not even step foot into the dining hall if they are alone, leading to bigger personal issues. If you cannot be alone in a public setting, it could potentially affect your social life, relationships and future career. If you always need someone at your side, you will not know how to truly discover yourself in college.

I get it — walking into a massive dining hall alone can be scary at first. People you vaguely know might watch you pass by their table, or your friend might catch you eating alone and ask why you are by yourself. Multiple people have come up to me while eating alone to ask me why I am by myself. I get a lot of weird looks from people when I tell them I eat alone in the dining hall sometimes. I have been asked if I have friends and if I am doing okay. If people are asking you these questions, that means they are part of the problem: if more people started eating alone, then it would not be seen as such an odd thing.

If the idea of sitting alone makes you nervous, start by bringing a book or laptop

with you. It will keep your anxious thoughts distracted while you eat. There is always some big empty corner in the dining hall where nobody really sits — which is a good spot to eat by yourself for the first time.

Alone time is a good thing. It gives you plenty of time to catch up with your current thoughts and feelings. It can be hard to find some peace and quiet, especially when you have roommates. I always enjoy talking to my mom on the phone when I sit by myself in the dining hall, where I can talk about anything with no distractions.

Whenever I see people eating by themselves, it makes me hopeful that we can soon normalize eating alone. If you think someone is judging you for sitting alone, they are probably thinking about themselves instead. The dining hall is big and filled with many people, so you probably won’t even know the people who walk past you.

I know many people who constantly order in because their friends do not like the dining hall food. Not only is this a waste of money, but it’s also a waste of time. Ordering food every day really adds up, especially with tax and delivery fees. After you spend $30 on a sandwich, you have to wait an extra hour for the food to most likely be cold when it arrives. Nobody wants to wait longer than they would like to, just as nobody enjoys tracking their delivery driver moving in slow motion while they can hear their stomach grumbling.

Eating alone in a public setting seems scary at first, but if you bring a book or call a friend, it is calming. Eating alone allows you to leave whenever you want since you do not have to wait for anyone. Hopefully, this persuades you to eat alone and reassures you that it is okay. Next time you want to eat at the dining hall, bring yourself instead of a friend and enjoy some alone time.

COURTESY PHOTO

The “Blanket Songs” installation is pictured at the Grunwald Gallery of Art. The exhibit features contemporary indigenous artist John Hitchcock.

Remarks from the Our Oceans Conference in Panama City

FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE JOHN KERRY, SPECIAL PRESIDENTIAL ENVOY FOR CLIMATE

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Rose House LuMin- Lutheran Campus Ministry at IU

314 S. Rose Ave. 812-333-2474 lcmiu.net

Instagram: @hoosierlumin

facebook.com/LCMIU

Sunday: 8:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. @ St. Thomas Lutheran Church 3800 E. 3rd St.

Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. Dinner & Devotions @ Rose House LuMin 314 S. Rose Ave. Rose House is an inclusive Christian community that offers a safe space for students to gather, explore faith questions, show love to our neighbors through service and work towards a more just world. Rose House walks with students to help them discern where God is calling them in life.

Rev. Amanda Ghaffarian, Campus Pastor

St. Thomas Lutheran Church

3800 E. Third St. 812-332-5252 stlconline.org

facebook.com/StThomasBloomington

Sunday: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

We are the worshiping home of Rose House Lutheran Campus Ministries. As disciples of Christ who value the faith, gifts and ministry of all God's people and seek justice and reconciliation, we welcome all God's children* to an inclusive and accessible community. *No strings attached or expectations that you'll change.

Rev. Adrianne Meier

Rev. Lecia Beck

Independent Baptist

Lifeway Baptist Church 7821 W. State Road 46 812-876-6072 lifewaybaptistchurch.org facebook.com/lifewayellettsville

Sunday: 9 a.m., Bible Study Classes 10 a.m., Morning Service 5 p.m., Evening Service

Barnabas College Ministry: Meeting for Bible study throughout the month. Contact Rosh Dhanawade at bluhenrosh@gmail.com for more information.

Steven VonBokern, Senior Pastor Rosh Dhanawade, IU Coordinator 302-561-0108 bluhenrosh@gmail.com

*Free transportation provided. Please call if you need a ride to church.

Episcopal (Anglican)

Canterbury Mission

719 E. Seventh St. 812-822-1335

IUCanterbury.org

facebook.com/ECMatIU

Instagram & Twitter: @ECMatIU

Sun.: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Mon., Wed., Thu.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tue.: Noon - 8 p.m.

Fri., Sat.: By Appointment

Canterbury: Assertively open & affirming; unapologetically Christian, we proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ by promoting justice, equality, peace, love and striving to be the change God wants to see in our world

Ed Bird, Chaplain/Priest

Jacob Oliver & Lily Dolliff, student workers

Unitarian Universalist

Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington

2120 N. Fee Ln.

812-332-3695 uubloomington.org

facebook.com/uubloomington

Sunday: 10:15 a.m.

We are a dynamic congregation working for a more just world through social justice. We draw inspiration from world religions and diverse spiritual traditions. Our vision is "Seeking the Spirit, Building Community, Changing the World." A LGBTQA+ Welcoming Congregation and a certified Green Sanctuary.

Rev. Connie Grant, Interim Minister

Rev. Emily Manvel Leite, Minister of Story and Ritual

Church of God (Anderson Affiliated)

Stoneybrook Community Church of God

3701 N. Stoneybrook Blvd. stoneybrookccog.org

facebook.com/StoneyBrookCCOG

Sunday: 10:30 a.m.

10 a.m. Coffee & Treats Stoneybrook Community Church of God is a gathering of imperfect people learning to follow Jesus. We invite you to join us on the journey.

Mitch Ripley, Interim Pastor

Evangel Presbytery

Trinity Reformed Church

2401 S. Endwright Rd. 812-825-2684 trinityreformed.org

facebook.com/trinitychurchbloom

Email us at office@trinityreformed.org

Sunday Services: 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

College Bible Study: Contact us for more info.

"Jesus answered them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.'" Proclaiming freedom from slavery since 1996. Only sinners welcome.

Jody Killingsworth, Senior Pastor Lucas Weeks, College Pastor

Bahá'í Faith

Bahá'í Association of IU 424 S. College Mall Rd. 812-331-1863 bloomingtoninbahais.org facebook.com/BaháíCommunity-of-BloomingtonIndiana-146343332130574

Instagram: @bloomingtonbahai

Regular Services/Devotional Meetings:

Sunday: 10:40 a.m. @ Bloomington Bahá'í Center

Please call or contact through our website for other meetings/activities

The Bahá'í Association of IU works to share the Teachings and Principles of the Founder, Bahá'u'lláh, that promote the "Oneness of Mankind" and the Peace and Harmony of the Planet through advancing the "security, prosperity, wealth and tranquility of all peoples."

Karen Pollock & Dan Enslow

Non-Denominational

Calvary Chapel of Bloomington

3625 W State Road 46 812-369-8459

calvarychapelbloomington.org

facebook.com/calvarychapelbloomington

YouTube: Calvary Chapel Bloomington IN

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Tuesday: 7 p.m., Prayer

Wednesday: 6:30 p.m.

Hungry for God's word and fellowship with other believers? Come as you are and worship with us as we grow in the knowledge of His love, mercy, and grace through the study of the scriptures, and serving those in need. May the Lord richly bless you!

Frank Peacock, Pastor

Alissa Peacock, Children's Ministry

Christ Community Church

503 S. High St. 812-332-0502 cccbloomington.org

facebook.com/christcommunitybtown

Instagram: @christcommunitybtown

Sunday: 9:15 a.m., Educational Hour

10:30 a.m., Worship Service

We are a diverse community of Christ-followers, including many IU students, faculty and staff. Together we are committed to sharing the redeeming grace and transforming truth of Jesus Christ in this college town.

Bob Whitaker, Senior Pastor Adam deWeber, Worship Pastor Dan Waugh, Adult Ministry Pastor

Church of Christ

825 W. Second St. 812-332-0501 facebook.com/w2coc

Sunday: 9:30 a.m., Bible Study

10:30 a.m. & 5 p.m., Worship

Wednesday: 7 p.m., Bible Study

We use no book, but the Bible. We have no creed but His Word within its sacred pages. God is love and as such we wish to share this joy with you. The comprehensive teaching of God's Word can change you forever.

John Myers, Preacher

City Church For All Nations

1200 N. Russell Rd. 812-336-5958 citychurchbloomington.org facebook.com/citychurchbtown

Instagram: @citychurchbtown

Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

*Always check website for possible changes to service times.

City Church is a non-denominational

multicultural, multigenerational church on Bloomington's east side. 1Life, our college ministry meets on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

David Norris, Pastor Sumer Norris, Pastor

Jubilee

Jubilee is a Christ-centered community open and affirming to all people. We gather on Wednesdays at First Methodist (219 E. Fourth St.) for a free meal, discussion, worship and hanging out. Small groups, service projects, events (scavenger hunts, bonfires, etc.), mission trips and opportunities for student leadership are all a significant part of our rhythm of doing life together.

219 E. Fourth St. 812-332-6396

jubileebloomington.org

jubilee@fumcb.org

facebook.com/jubileebloomington Instagram: @jubileebloomington

Society of Friends (Quaker)

Bloomington Friends Meeting 3820 E. Moores Pike 812-336-4581

bloomingtonfriendsmeeting.org

Facebook: Bloomington Friends Meeting

Sunday (in person and by Zoom):

9:45 a.m., Hymn singing

10:30 a.m., Meeting for Worship

10:45 a.m., Sunday School (Children join in worship from 10:30-10:45)

11:30 a.m., Light Refreshments and Fellowship

12:45 p.m., Often there is a second hour activity (see website)

Wednesday (by Zoom only):

9 a.m., Midweek Meeting for worship

9:30 a.m., Fellowship

We practice traditional Quaker worship, gathering in silence with occasional Spirit-led vocal ministry by fellow worshipers. We are an inclusive community with a rich variety of belief and no prescribed creed. We are actively involved in peace action, social justice causes, and environmental concerns.

Peter Burkholder, Clerk burkhold@indiana.edu

United Methodist

Jubilee 219 E. Fourth St. 812-332-6396 jubileebloomington.org jubilee@fumcb.org

facebook.com/jubileebloomington

Instagram: @jubileebloomington

Sunday: 9:30 a.m., Classic Worship & 11:45 a.m., Contemporary Worship

Wednesday: 7:30 p.m., College & Young Adult Dinner

Jubilee is a Christ-centered community open and affirming to all people. We gather on Wednesdays at First Methodist (219 E. Fourth St.) for a free meal, discussion, worship and hanging out. Small groups, service projects, events (scavenger hunts, bonfires, etc.), mission trips and opportunities for student leadership are all a significant part of our rhythm of doing life together.

Markus Dickinson, Campus Director

Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod

University Lutheran Church and Student Center 607 E. Seventh St 812-336-5387 indianalutheran.com

facebook.com/ULutheranIU instagram.com/uluindiana

Sunday: 9:15 a.m.; Sunday Bible Class 10:30 a.m.; Sunday Worship

Wednesday: 7 p.m.: Wednesday Evening Service 7:45 p.m.: College Bible Study Student Center open daily, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. We are the home of the LCMS campus ministry at Indiana. Our mission is to serve all college students with the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ. Located on Campus, we offer Christ-centered worship, Bible study and a community of friends gathered around God’s gifts of life, salvation and the forgiveness of sins through our Senior Jesus Christ. Richard Woelmer, Pastor

Sunday: 9:30 a.m., Classic Worship & 11:45 a.m., Contemporary Worship

Wednesday: 7:30 p.m., College & Young Adult Dinner

Markus Dickinson, Campus Director

Inter-Denominational

Redeemer Community Church

111 S. Kimble Dr. 812-269-8975 redeemerbloomington.org

facebook.com/RedeemerBtown

Instagram & Twitter: @RedeemerBtown

Sunday: 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Redeemer is a gospel-centered community on mission. Our vision is to see the gospel of Jesus Christ transform everything: our lives, our church, our city, and our world. We want to be instruments of gospel change in Bloomington and beyond.

Chris Jones, Lead Pastor

Baptist

University Baptist Church

3740 E. Third St. 812-339-1404

ubcbloomington.org

facebook.com/ubc.bloomington

YouTube: UBC Bloomington IN

Sunday: 10:45 a.m., Worship in person & live streamed on YouTube

A welcoming and affirming congregation excited to be a church home to students in Bloomington. Trans and other LGBTQ+ friends and allies most especially welcome!

Annette Hill Briggs, Pastor Rob Drummond, Worship & Music Minister

Mennonite

Mennonite Fellowship of Bloomington

2420 E. Third St. 812-646-2441 bloomingtonmenno.org

facebook.com/Mennonite-

Fellowship-ofBloomington-131518650277524

Sunday: 5 p.m.

A welcoming, inclusive congregation providing a place of healing and hope as we journey together in the Spirit of Christ. Gathering for worship Sundays 5 p.m. in the Roger Williams room, First United Church. As people of God's peace, we seek to embody the Kingdom of God.

John Sauder mfbjohn@gmail.com

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

205 E. Kirkwood Ave. 812-332-4459 fccbloomington.org

Sunday: 10 a.m.

We are an inclusive community of people who are diverse in thought and unified in spirit. We are an LGBTQIA+ welcoming and affirming congregation known for our excellent music and commitment to justice. Our worship services will not only lift your spirit, but also engage your mind. You are welcome!

Pastor Kyrmen Rea, Senior Pastor Pastor Sarah Lynne Gershon, Student Associate Pastor Jan Harrington, Director of Music

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Today is a 9 - Generate and maintain positive cash flow. Pay bills before buying treats. Disciplined efforts pay off. Put love into your work and demand rises.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Today is a 9 - Pursue personal passions. Use your power and confidence for good. Disciplined actions advance your priorities. Savor your favorite activities, views and people. Love is contagious.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Today is a 7 - Rest and recharge. Love and nature feed your spirit. Savor sacred rituals. Take extra care of yourself. Take care of everyone else later.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Today is an 8 - Community efforts propelled by love can take off. Build on solid foundations. Share what you’re learning. Connect and engage with friends for growth.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Today is an 8 - Take charge for the professional results you want. You have the wind at your back. Your good work reflects you well. Make a powerful pitch.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Today is an 8 - Investigate a fascinating subject. Explore new cultures, flavors and philosophies. Develop a creative idea into a compelling case. Make exciting connections. Write your discoveries.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Today is a 9 - Get your heart pumping and clear your mind. Disciplined physical practices build strength and energy. Put love into your work and demand rises.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Today is an 8 - Have a good time. Reconnect

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