THE DAILY ILLINI
MONDAY October 12, 2020
The independent student newspaper at the University of Illinois since 1871
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Vol. 150 Issue 15
Students petition to ban Proctorio BY AMRITA BHATTACHARYYA STAFF WRITER
A petition with over 700 signatures is circulating to call upon the University to stop using Proctorio, an AI-based online proctoring system that analyzes trends to prevent students from cheating during tests. Downloaded through Google Chrome, Proctorio requires the webcam and microphone to be turned on during testing, so it can track eye and head movements to look for signs of cheating. The platform can also view and capture content from the student’s screen, in addition to accessing the student’s downloads and privacyrelated settings. Sameer Khan, junior in LAS, created the petition on Sept. 30, advocating for the University to stop using Proctorio. This all started after Khan realized his midterm for ECON 203: Economics Statistics II would be proctored. “I had heard some negative things about Proctorio, so I jumped down a rabbit hole of researching Proctorio, and to my dismay, I found that they pulled a lot of data from one’s computer,” Khan said. For his midterm, Khan used a spare laptop because he didn’t feel comfortable using his own. Khan suggests alternative proctoring methods to monitor cheating, such as using Zoom, to make sure students are not collaborating on tests. Khan also suggested changing the structure of
exams to make them more conceptual and run on the honor system. “I think more exams should move in that direction, where we’re not forced to memorize redundant facts,” Khan said. “But they should in fact be more conceptual and more handson so that what we’re doing in exams is more practical, and we’re truly testing our knowledge.” Kevin Pitts, Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, agrees that the University wants to try and assess what students have learned rather than just assess their memory. However, “there is no one size fits all when it comes to assessments,” Pitts said. The move by the University to use Proctorio was an attempt to prevent students from gaming the system and instead level the playing field, according to Pitts. Because the University moved very quickly to remote instruction in March, they needed some kind of proctoring mechanism relatively fast. “It was always meant to be kind of a short term thing,” Pitts said. According to Pitts, the University explored several online proctoring services before ultimately settling on Proctorio, which the University could act on quickly. “These are the kinds of things that normally take months and months of contractual negotiations,” Pitts said. Because Proctorio is an AI-based company, Proco-
UI testing capacity sits far lower than advertised
Proctorio Browser Policy Settings and Permissions
BY WILLIE CUI CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Read and change data on the websites you visit
Display notifications
Modify data you copy and paste
Capture content of your screen
Manage your downloads
Identify and eject storage devices
Manage apps, extensions, and themes
Change your privacy-related settings
Proctorio does not use all of these settings or permissions to run most of the exams
Members of the University’s SHIELD testing initiative said that the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, where the University processes COVID tests, was only designed to handle 10,000 tests per day, despite the University advertising its capacity for 20,000 tests in a day. “I don’t know where that number is from,” said Dr. Leyi Wang, a professor and virologist who oversees the processing of COVID tests at the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. “Before we started, the leading scientist (Dr. Robin Holland) predicted that we do around 10,000.” Dr. Timothy Fan, a member of the SHIELD team and professor of veterinary clinical medicine, said the laboratory was set up with the understanding that the University would be testing people once per week. “What drives the number of tests is often the modeling,” Fan said. “The initial purchase of machines was really designed for 10,000 tests per day, and that was under the original target of testing people once per week.” However, epidemiologists and disease modelers felt that testing twice a week would be much more impactful in controlling the pandemic. “That shifted the onetime-a-week planning to two-time-a-week planning, and that essentially doubled the number of samples that we would actually have to process,” Fan said. In the first two weeks of classes, the University processed nearly 15,000 tests a day. This resulted in the laboratory being unable to process all the samples they received in an appropriate time, which “defeated the purpose” of the testing program. “The purpose is to get the results out fast,” said Fan. “We can do that quite well if we’re dealing with about 10,000 samples a day.” Since then, the laboratory has somewhat expanded its capacity. “Before we started the lab or scaled up the testing,” said Wang. “We did an estimation and predicted around 10,000. Now we can do 11-12,000, and that’s pretty good.” However, Fan said that in order for the laboratory to
Source: Proctorio Website JONAH OZER THE DAILY ILLINI
torio would be able to meet the University’s level of demand, as opposed to other platforms such as ProctorU, in which humans monitor students in real-time. According to Pitts, the University did a “full vetting” of Proctorio, working with Technology Services to make sure they were happy with how Proctorio was handling data. “We’ve been keenly aware of (privacy issues) for some
time because we’ve been using online proctoring in our fully online courses for some time,” Pitts said, referring to the use of other platforms such as ProctorU and Computer-Based Testing Facility. The University has a contract with Proctorio which includes what the company is allowed to do with the data, such as who can have access to it and under what circumstances.
Pitts said Proctorio’s allowed use of the data is “extremely limited” because Proctorio adheres to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. This is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The University is evaluating Proctorio through feedback received from professors and students. abhatt52@dailyillini.com
Peoria Charter fears closure BY ETHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR
The owner of Peoria Charter Coach, one of the largest bus companies in Illinois, said he’ll close down the business in November without adequate federal and state aid. There’s a $90,000 bus license bill for the company’s 58 buses that’s been sitting on owner Bill Winkler’s desk since April. The governor has delayed the bill twice, now until the end of October. “I don’t know if he’s gonna postpone it again, but postponing doesn’t help anything. I still owe it,” Winkler said. Peoria Charter Coach is a major player for University transportation and the state as a whole, having driven 280,000 passengers between the Chicagoland area and central Illinois in 2019. “The pandemic is the worst thing that could ever happen to the motorcoach industry,” Winkler said. “Because until the public feels safe indoors in a group
for an extended period of time, my company and my industry will continue to suffer.” COVID-19 has brought a series of misfortunes to Winkler’s company and industry from the very beginning. Spring break, when the University and nation instituted a wave of COVID-19 restrictions, is typically the “Super Bowl of chartering work.” A wave of cancellations hamstrung Peoria Charter for months to come, bringing revenue down by 94%. Winkler laid off 90% of his 130-person workforce on March 17. When the $1.2 million Payment Protection Program loan rolled in on April 15, he brought back 60 of his employees. But their return was painfully short-lived. The $5 million in cancellations and $500,000 in returned deposits were overwhelming, while revenue barely budged. On July 15, Winkler sat in his office, unable to tell the same 60 employees they’d have to go on unem-
ployment for the second time in four months. He sent his vice president to share the news. A few minutes later, Winkler walked outside to face his workforce and was met with a humbling response. “I came outside and all my employees start clapping for me,” he said. “Saying, ‘We love our jobs, we want to come back, keep fighting for us, we’re fighting for you.’ That meant the world to me.” Winkler is “emotionally shot” at the moment. He tries to keep in touch with his employees whenever possible. “Can you imagine what that does to your staff?” he said. “It just breaks my CAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI heart that I have to do this A University coronavirus testing site worker pulls empty vials for them. But they have been out of a plastic bag on Thursday. All but one COVID-19 testing so loyal, they can’t wait to site will be moving inside starting Monday. come back.” Winkler feels taunted by adjacent states that have lifted COVID restrictions, like Indiana and Missouri that have both moved to Phase 5 of reopening. Without a
Testing sites move indoors due to cold
SEE PEORIA | 3A BY VIVIAN LA
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF PEORIA CHARTER’S FACEBOOK
Customers board a Peoria Charter bus on Aug. 6. Peoria Charter is concerned it may be forced to close in November should they not receive federal or state aid.
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All but one COVID-19 testing site moved to indoor locations on Monday, Oct. 12, in preparation for colder weather. One of the University’s concerns with the cooler weather is the flu. “We are encouraging all members of the community to get their flu shot to maximize the health and safety of everyone,” Executive Associate Provost for Capital Planning Matthew Tomaszewski said in an email. As well as encouraging flu shots, Tomaszewski and his team will continue their communication and educational messages to students. Campus Wellness Ambassadors have been “terrific advocates for ensuring others are aware of the key practices,” he said. “The University contin-
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ues to monitor our cases on a daily basis, and we will be watching for any spread and making any necessary adjustments to our testing program,” Tomaszewski said. The process of moving outdoor testing sites indoors happened all at once on Oct. 12. Mariah Sims, an employee who worked at the outdoor South Quad tent, said moving indoors is good for the lines and encouraging more testing. Most outdoor locations will be moving to a nearby indoor site. For example, the Alice Campbell Alumni Center tent is now in the lobby. Outdoor tents had signs and directions to point to a nearby indoor testing location, according to Director of Special Events Laura Wilhelm-Barr.
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Monday, October 12, 2020
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• Theft over $500 was reported at Allen Hall, 1005 W. Gregory Drive, between 7-11 p.m. on Wednesday. According to the report, a student’s bicycle was stolen from a rack. The estimated value of the stolen bicycle is $800. • Theft $500 and under was reported at Snyder Hall, 206 E. Peabody Drive, between Sept. 28-30. According to the report, a student’s bicycle was locked when it was stolen from a rack. The estimated value of the stolen bicycle is $400.
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• Criminal damage to property • Burglary from a motor vehicle was reported on the 1500 block and theft from a motor vehicle of East Florida Avenue around were reported on the 2500 block 8:43 p.m. on Thursday. Accordof South Lynn Street around ing to the report, the unknown 5:36 a.m. on Thursday. Accordoffender damaged the victim’s ing to the report, the offender(s) vehicle. broke into the victim’s vehicle • Identity theft was reported on and stole multiple items. When the 1200 block of North Linbreaking into the first vehicle, coln Avenue around 5:40 p.m. the offender(s) found a second on Thursday. According to the key to another vehicle, which report, the unknown offender they drove away from the scene pretended to be a federal agent in. and obtained personal identification information from the news@dailyillini.com victim.
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Orchard Downs is located at 1801-1805 Orchard Pl, Urbana. The armed robbery occurred here on Thursday evening.
UI police continue search for armed robber BY ETHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR
University police are still searching for the suspect of the armed robbery that occurred Thursday evening in Urbana. The encounter was a Facebook Marketplace exchange meeting gone awry. A resident of Orchard Downs, on the 2100 block of South Orchard Street, Urbana,
called the police after he was robbed at gunpoint. The resident had set up a meeting to purchase electronics from the eventual robber. According to UI police, when the two met, the offender took the resident’s cash that he had brought to buy the items. UI police arrived at the scene and searched the area, while thousands of
students, faculty and staff were notified of the crime through the Illini Alert system. However, the offender wasn’t found. Police describe the offender as a Black man of about 20 to 25 years old, 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a “thin build and short facial hair, wearing a black sweatshirt and jeans with cutout knees.” The offender was
last seen driving from Orchard Downs in a silver Kia sedan with a covered license plate. Those with additional information can call UI police at 217-333-1216. To share information anonymously, contact residents Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477 or 373tips. com. ecsimmon@dailyillini.com
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October 12, 2020 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com
NEWS
Six months in, county jail avoids virus outbreak BY SARAH SMAIL
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Despite a pandemic that’s disproportionately infected those in jails and prisons, the Champaign County Jail managed to avoid COVID-19 early on. According to Sheriff Dustin Heuerman, they had identified five inmates that had the virus before they were arrested and brought to jail. In addition, while the jail population capacity is 295 individuals, the current population is 141 individuals as of Oct. 5, down from over 180 inmates in mid-March. The pandemic has revealed the overcrowding situation prisons are facing. According to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University and UCLA in July, incarcerated people are five times more likely to be infected by the coronavirus. The death rate for the incarcerated is higher as well, at 39 deaths per 100,000 compared to a citizen’s 29 deaths per 100,000. “From the onset, we
reduced movement of inmates and took other steps to keep COVID out of the jail as much as possible,” Heuerman said. “This included a major examination of those in custody and an increase in officers writing Notice to Appears in lieu of physical arrests when possible. We also instituted a 14-day quarantine policy for all new inmates upon entry to the jail.” With these new precautions, the Champaign County Jail was able to avoid the spread of the virus to its general population. According to Heuerman, in 2019, a total of 5,505 people were booked into the Champaign County jail with an average length of stay being 15.37 days. He also said the top five most common causes for arrests in 2019 are driving with a suspended or revoked license, domestic battery, having an out-of-date county warrant, driving under the influence of alcohol and retail theft.
As crime increases in our country, Champaign County’s crime has also been increasing. “There is more crime than I would like to see in our community, but I wish we didn’t have crime at all,” Heuerman said. “Every time I see crime is increasing, I’m reminded that it is increasing in other jurisdictions, too, so an increase is not unique to our area. For example, shooting incidents are up in Champaign County as a whole, but they are also up in other counties in central Illinois and across the state.” In order to mitigate this, the Sheriff has bigger goals for himself and for his community. Heuerman hopes to rehabilitate incarcerated individuals so that they leave the prison better than they came in. As a result, the Champaign County Jail offers programs and support. Some of the programs offered are anger management, mindfulness training, parenting class, GED,
THE DAILY ILLINI FILE PHOTO
The entrance to the Champaign County Jail on Nov. 24 is pictured above. The Champaign County Jail has avoided COVID-19 outbreaks with testing efforts and decreased capacity.
Bible study and even a movie critic discussion. Potential programs for the future include food and nutrition, business class, writing class
and a few others. However, at the moment, mental health workers have been working out of closets and only one classroom
has been available for these mental health programs, Heuerman said. ssmail2@dailyillini.com
FROM 1A
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New locations were chosen based on the proximity to the original location, as well as other key factors. “We need large enough space, equivalent to the square footage we had in the tent, good location and Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility are key as well,” Wilhelm-Barr said. people to manage the testing campus. There were 17 They also have to have sites, so we’re really grate- before Oct. 12. adequate capacity, appro- ful to have a lot of help from The Alice Campbell Alumpriate air-circulation and across campus.” ni Center, Foellinger Auditobe convenient for students, The testing locations at rium, Krannert Center for faculty and staff, Tomasze- Freer Hall, Graziano Pla- the Performing Arts and wski said. za, Illini Grove, Lot 31, the National Center for SuperWhile testing numbers South Quad and Washington computing Applications are vary based on the location Park are no longer in use as moving indoors. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAN VAN DER BRUG / LOS ANGELES TIMES and day of the week, the test- of Oct. 12. The Veterinary Medicine ICE agent Jorge Field stands outside the home of a 47-year-old Mexican national in Montebello, ing site at State Farm Center Three new locations at tent is the only remaining California. The University opposed a rule to eliminate “Duration of Status” admission. remains as the busiest loca- the Funk ACES Library, the outdoor testing location tion on campus. As many Activities and Recreation because an indoor location as 1,000 people are tested Center, and the Ice Arena could not be found for this there each day, according opened on Monday. site. Heaters will be added to Tomaszewski. With the removal of four for employees and those who Managing and running a outdoor locations and the test, according to a Massmay lead to different times of DS-2019 for F and J visas, widespread testing system is addition of three indoor mail sent on Oct. 7. completion for different indi- respectively, which contain “instrumental,” Willhelm- locations, there are curviduals. The implementation program information and the Barr said. “It takes a lot of rently 14 testing sites across vla2@dailyillini.com of this rule would instead rely expected date for program on the United States Citizen- completion. This document ship and Immigration Ser- is controlled by the program vices immigration officers sponsor, which in this case is to evaluate whether there the University. is a compelling academic Therefore, with the help reason for extending these of academic advisors and programs. departments, the University “It could require academ- can grant extensions which ic advisors and the students may be required due to unexBY PAYAL RATHORE having to write explanations pected delays in research and CONTRIBUTING WRITER regarding their research medical issues. The University of Illi- which may or may not be lisAll this, however, may nois vehemently opposed a tened to,” said McFarlane, change with the elimination proposed rule to eliminate who added that the process of this rule. “Duration of Status” admis- was unnecessary to the existThe USCIS has said that sion for international stu- ing system. the maximum time period dents, scholars and their The ISSS News Blog issued that one can be admitted to dependents. a post with strong opposition before you require an extenThe rule, published in the to the proposed change just sion is four years, which may Federal Register on Sept. 25, five days after the rule hit the also not be guaranteed for could inconvenience many of register, stating that “Dura- certain countries that have the 9,363 international stu- tion of Status” is a unique type been listed by the department dents enrolled at the Univer- of entry available to interna- of state for various reasons. sity, adding a paid application tional students and scholars This uncertainty may also for those who need to stay in that allows admission to the result in students preferring the states longer than a pre- United States for those who other study destinations over determined time. are coming to the U.S. on F the U.S. “Removing DS means that and J visa categories. “The University opposes anyone coming on these visas, “We greatly believe in the this, and is currently discussinstead of getting DS, will value our international stu- ing this at the system level, so receive a date by which they dents and scholars bring to not just the University of Illihave to return,” said Martin our campus and communi- nois at Urbana-Champaign, McFarlane, director of Inter- ty, and creating uncertain- but Springfield and ChicaCAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI national Student and Schol- ty over our students’ ability go as well, and we plan on Senior Jonathan Starr inspects his vial while taking a COVID-19 test on Thursday. ar Services. “If they want to to complete their programs responding comprehensiveextend that date, they will is an unreasonable action,” ly with a list of reasons as to have to go through a lengthy ISSS wrote in its post. why this is bad, not just for the FROM 1A the application opened, and received 237 co-sponsors in application process that will F and J visas are unique as University, but for higher eduis still waiting to hear back. the House of Representatake months and cost mon- unlike other visas, as instead cation in the United States,” October is usually one of tives and 54 co-sponsors in ey, as opposed to doing it with of getting a fixed date by McFarlane said. vaccine or a widely avail- the business’s best months. the Senate. their school, which takes which they have to leave the He said the response will able treatment method for Last year, off the back of And yet, the act wasn’t days, and is free.” country such as in an I-94, be reviewed at the “provost, COVID-19, Illinois Gov. J.B. Illini football, the company included in the language of These decisions are cur- they have D/S written on their chancellor or president lev- Pritzker won’t move the earned $1.6 million. the second stimulus proposrently being made by aca- visa. This is because the recip- el,” and it would be submitted state into its final phase. This year, the company al brought on Oct. 1. demic professionals who are ients are unsure of how long before the 30-day comment It’s not just the federal lev- has eight coaches set aside Winklers admits the secaware of the details of the their program is going to last. deadline. el where Winkler has com- for ferrying fans to and from ond round of PPP money is program and understand These visas have additional plaints. Motorcoach com- games. Even then, the best “so important.” The loan the nuances involved which documents, such as I-20 and payalr2@dailyillini.com panies weren’t included in case revenue situation won’t would get him through 2020, the first round of Business save the company. and the CERTS Act could get Interruption Grants issued The Coronavirus Eco- him through 2021. FROM 1A that the laboratory remains en to the challenge” and has by the state of Illinois in nomic Relief for Transpor“If we don’t get any of understaffed. done an admirable job in pro- August. tation Services (CERTS) Act, this by the end of Novem“If we had more staff may- cessing COVID tests. Motorcoach companies provides a glimmer of hope, ber, then, um, some big deciprocess around 16-20,000 be 15,000 is fine,” said Wang. “Our lab has just crossed can now apply for part of with $10 billion set aside for sions have to be made,” he tests per day, they would “Another lab, they have hun- the half-a-million mark,” the $220 million second the motorcoach industry. said. “And there is not anothneed to significantly auto- dreds of people, we only have said Fan. “That is a signif- round of grants, but WinBrought to the floor er motorcoach company out mate the testing process, 20.” icant fraction of what the kler said it only came “after by representative Darin there that wouldn’t say the which would “help efficienOverall, Fan believes that state of Illinois does.” many phone calls of scream- LaHood (IL-18) on July 16, same thing.” cy and increase throughput.” the Veterinary Diagnostic ing my head off.” He applied just a day after Winkler reMoreover, Wang claims Laboratory has “really ris- williec2@dailyillini.com two weeks ago, right after laid off 60 employees, the bill ecsimmon@dailyillini.com
The process of moving all outdoor testing sites indoors happened all at once on Oct. 12.
UI defends duration of status University argues federal proposal disadvantages international students
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LIFE & CULTURE
ANGELINA CHAN THE DAILY ILLINI
COVID-19 changes labs, research opportunities BY ETHAN WERNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Students in ChampaignUrbana and around the world have been dealing with new struggles this semester due to COVID-19. While many classes were able to smoothly transition online, some practical STEM classes have had difficulty transitioning to remote learning due to their “hands-on” nature. Gopu Nair, professor in Engineering, teaches two practical classes. Fortunately, the lab section of each class had limited seats to begin with, so staying distanced and maintaining guidelines has not been a problem. The lectures are posted online each week instead of being given it in person. One of the main issues stemming from new precautions and restrictions has been accessibility to the demonstrations. “In terms of demonstrating things, we always asked people to come closer and look at it, but now we (are not) able to do that,” Nair said. “That really extends the lab time because I have to do more demonstrations. Because my courses are all handson, I cannot do it on video.” This problem also cuts into the class schedule, as the professor must give the demonstration multiple
times to various students because they were not able to see it all before. Not only did this issue affect the class schedule, but the guidelines of frequent testing and restricted building access have inhibited some students from getting to their classes. If students get the virus and have to quarentine, they are then behind in the class for at least the two weeks they must miss. Nair must adjust their schedules accordingly, thus adding more work for both parties. Even with all of the scheduling issues, Nair said he has been fortunate to still be able to keep his class relatively the same except for online lectures and stricter guidelines. Not all labs have been as fortunate. Sonia Tomcz yk, senior in ACES, is en rol led in such a lab in the
Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences. This semester, she has been taking NRES 302: Dendrology, or the study of trees. “Even our professor has said that (we are being cheated out of the full class experience) because we can’t go to other places,” Tomczyk said. “Our labs usually take field trips every week to a state park or something that’s further away, but because of COVID, we have to walk everywhere, so that is definitely affecting our
knowledge of learning certain things.” While practical labs and research still being conducted in-person are being negatively impacted by the modern pandemic, some remote research in STEM fields has somewhat benefited from some of the adjustments that had to be made. Alex Mroz, sophomore in AHS, is in a lab studying speech rehabilitation, doing research specifically on Hispanic bilingual people about how effects of the voice differ when speaking Spanish or English. While Alex said she may not necessarily enjoy doing
research online, she still recognized some of the benefits that can come from it. “It makes the process a little easier,” she said. “Instead of having to look for people and then interview them, we already have the audio files that we need so all we need to do is listen to it and transcribe it.” Mroz said that she doesn’t think that doing her research online is necessarily inhibiting her, but she still recognized that it would be a lot better if she was able to interact with her moderator and fellow researchers. The ability to do so is one of the major benefits of in-person classes right now. The structure of this semester has had some students
greatly appreciating the classes they have in person this semester because there are so few of them. Many acknowledge the privilege it is to be able to meet with professors and peers during a pandemic. “Some students, this is the only hands-on class for them,” Nair said. “They totally are enjoying it a lot because the University is where people want to see each other, and, you know, that’s how you learn — you learn more than the subject, you learn how to be in an environment. In that case, they are appreciating it a lot.” The students who don’t have any in-person classes are anticipating the day they can return to the classrooms. Even students who may currently have one or two in-person classes are anxious to take more when this is over. “I miss having in-person classes, I think a lot of people do, so it’s nice to actually be able to go to class and interact with your professor and classmates,” Tomczyk said. Nair said, “That’s how you progress, rather than doing things alone, helping others, seeing others learn and dealing with the problems hands on — you make progress that way.” ewerner@dailyillini.com
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Monday, October 12, 2020
5A
Prepare for flu-season amidst pandemic BY MACKENZIE STEPHENS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
After months of living with the looming presence of COVID-19, these next winter months pose an additional threat to public health: influenza. Students and faculty wear masks, sanitize and receive twice-weekly testing to prevent the contraction and spread of the virus. However, some have said the winter of 2020 may change the conditions under which people practice preventative care given the possibilities of the cold and flu. As the flu and coronavirus seasons intersect, students may be left wondering how they will manage to stay healthy. Lowa Mwilambwe, associate vice chancellor for auxiliary, health & wellbeing, finds it is normal for people to spend more time indoors during the winter months, which can contribute to the spread of both viruses. He explained that with more traffic passing through the same spaces, there is a greater opportunity for germs to build up, and the poor air circulation could potentially facilitate a higher concentration of both the flu and coronavirus. The flu season also poses difficulties for medical professionals like Dr. Robert Woodward, medical director of McKinley Health Center. “This makes it harder for a medical provider to make a definitive diagnosis of what virus is causing the symptoms, even if a lot of the treatments are the same,” Woodward said in an email. “I really worry that if students are not careful and diligent,
some people may get both at the same time, which could be very serious.” Although COVID-19 symptoms appear to be less aggressive in young adults, many flu symptoms are typically more noticeable and could potentially make it difficult to function normally. The severity of symptoms is a possible indicator between the two viruses. In his email, Dr. Woodward suggests following basic COVID-19 precautions in order to avoid contracting either illness during the upcoming flu season such as wearing a mask, using hand sanitizer, washing hands regularly and social distancing. If an individual is experiencing flu symptoms such as fever and cough, he recommends staying home until the fever has passed. These preventative actions have remained the same throughout the course of the pandemic and should continue to be practiced daily, if not even more intensely. However, there is one measure of prevention that’s importance has been heavily emphasized by medical professionals and doctors across campus. Dr. Robert Parker, director of McKinley Health Center, stresses the importance of the flu vaccine. “We would love to have everybody to have the flu shot by the end of October,” Parker said. I t takes about two
weeks after you get the flu shot for your body to build up the immunity it needs to protect you from the flu.” The vaccine works in many ways to alleviate the impending stress of flu season for students, faculty and medical staff. The vaccine decreases the likelihood that students and staff contract and spread the flu which would aid medical professionals in the Champaign-Urbana area in differentiating between a COVID-19 and flu diagnosis. Students can find more information about vaccination sites on McKinley’s website. Many individuals refuse to receive the vaccine, believing that it may produce the flu or flu-like symptoms. However, Parker highlighted that the vaccine given at the University is an inactive vaccine that contains flu particles, rather than an active strain. “You can get a little bit of a low-grade fever from the vaccine, a sore arm or maybe even a headache and sore throat that might last 24 hours,” Parker said, “But it really pales in comparison to the flu.” Parker also indicated that although the vaccine is not always 100% effective in preventing the flu for an individual, it can still function to help others. “Because you still see the flu in people that
JULIA EVERSMANN THE DAILY ILLINI
vaccinate,” he said. But if you’re going to see it, it tends to be a much milder illness, you don’t have nearly as much of a viral load, and therefore, you’re not as infectious as you would be had you not received the vaccine.” In his
email, Woodward defines this as herd protection. This means that if everyone received a flu shot, anyone who contracted the flu would find it difficult to spread to friends, family,
classmates and the rest of the community. Although this winter season will be like no other, following general COVID-19 guidelines, in addition to the flu vaccine, will be key players in the safety of students and staff. Overall, the goal is to practice prevention, keep thoughts positive and tests negative. mas24@dailyillini.com
KEEP YOURSELF AND OTHERS SAFE!
WEAR YOUR
MASK!
THE
D A ILY ILLINI
NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD
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1 Something that may be bitten or busted 4 No laughing ___ 10 “___-voom!” 14 DuVernay who directed “Selma” 15 Printing goofs 16 “___ go bragh!” 17 Entranceway to London’s Hyde Park 19 Brainy sort 20 Starting stake 21 Summer coolers, for short 22 Eye makeup 23 “Yee-___!” 25 Kids’ game that usually ends in a draw 28 Eternal 31 Ranter’s emotion 32 “No lie!” 33 Designer Oscar ___ Renta 34 Go “boo-hoo-hoo!” 37 Singer Yoko 38 North Carolinian 40 Safe Drinking Water Act enforcer, for short 41 Japanese moolah 42 Actress Jessica 43 Speaks impertinently to 45 Classic pie crust ingredient 46 “The birds and the bees” 47 Popular food fish that’s actually a flounder 51 Thanksgiving side dish 52 How the surprised are taken 53 Miracle on ___ (1980 Winter Olympics upset) 55 Greek cheese 58 Ending for “right to” or “put to” 59 How tall Barbie is … or what the ends of 17-, 25-, 38- and 47-Across are?
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PUZZLE BY GARETH BAIN
62 Connecting point 63 Joseph who wrote “Heart of Darkness” 64 Roth ___ (investment) 65 “S.N.L.” bit 66 Artists’ stands 67 What prevents a coffee cup from spilling DOWN 1 Dalai ___ 2 Any of several Russian czars 3 Temple on Athens’s Acropolis 4 Blanc who voiced Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig 5 Geometry calculation 6 Political or religious pamphlets 7 Some ankle bones 8 And so on: Abbr. 9 When repeated, very enthused
10 Home to St. Mark’s Basilica 11 “There ___ enough hours in the day …” 12 “Black-capped” or “yellow-throated” songbird 13 ___ the Giant (legendary 7’4” wrestler) 18 “If ___ Street Could Talk,” 2018 film for which Regina King won an Oscar 22 California soccer club 24 Where Jericho and Bethlehem are located 26 First Nations tribe 27 Author Gay 28 “___, matey!” 29 Disappeared 30 Alternative to an elevator 33 UPS alternative
34 Staple of Asian cooking 35 German auto 36 Sunbathe 39 Start over 44 Aides, collectively 45 Old-fashioned keepsake 46 Like passwords, one hopes 47 Playing surfaces for croquet 48 Some downloadable reading 49 Tuesday, in Tours 50 Civic club whose motto is “We Serve” 54 And others: Abbr. 56 Singer Amos 57 Slightly 59 King beater 60 Pet with which you might form a tight bond 61 Drawbacks to a free app
The crossword solution is in the Classified section.
6A
MONDAY
October 12, 2020 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com
OPINIONS
Harry Potter acts as mediator Series revival on TikTok mends generational gap
excitement, intrigue and Along with this social hope of a secret wizarding media revival, a few busiworld that could be right nesses have caught wind of underneath their noses. this comeback and released There’s no other feeling like Harry Potter collaborations. finding someone that loves Build-a-Bear released a the same thing you do, and Harry Potter bear with each with social media nowaHouse’s uniform; Ulta has MARYKATE days, people can connect introduced Harry Potter GREEN COLUMNIST with other fans much more bags and a couple themed easily. makeup products; Vans If you’re on TikTok, an released Harry Potter cusarry Potter is a app steadily gaining poputom sneakers; Williams beloved character larity by the day, you’re sure Sonoma manufactured Harthat’s been around for to come across at least a ry Potter themed baking over two decades. Both Mil- few videos of Harry Potterand cooking supplies; Potlennials and Generation Z related content. There are tery Barn has introduced a read the books and watched videos set from your point multitude of Harry Potter the movies. Harry Potter of view in which you go to home and bedroom decor. was such a big part of these school at Hogwarts and conI am super excited that generations that some of us, fuse the non-muggles with one of my favorite series is though we may be afraid to modern slang. These are receiving so much attention admit it, watched our mailmy favorites, as they tie in even after so long. I have box intently on our 11th our everyday world with the already impulsively-bought birthdays searching for an wizarding world. the Harry Potter Hogwarts inked letter sealed with a There are POVs that you robe and accessories for wax Hogwarts crest. are friends with the golden my Build-a-Bear and have With this resurgence, this trio — Harry, Hermoine started a comprehensive list new generation gets to expe- and Ron. There are POVs of all the Harry Potter merrience the same enthusiasm. with a love square between chandise I want for ChristWe so desperately wanted you, Harry Potter, Cedric mas this year. I am pumped to be a part of this magical Diggory and Draco Malto have new fans joining in and wondrous world that foy. There is also a subset of on the fun and can’t wait to J.K. Rowling created for Harry Potter TikToks cenhave more people to discuss us. Back when I was a fifth tered around Draco Malfoy. headcanons with. grader, it was seen as a huge For an unknown reason, a So if you’re a fellow Potaccomplishment to have large portion of Harry Potterhead, you should defiread the entire Harry Potter ter fans are focusing on the nitely be checking out these series — so much so that I redemption arc that Draco sites to bring your Harry was in a bet with a boy in my Malfoy rightfully deserved. Potter obsession back to the grade to see who could finTom Felton, the actor who surface. We know you miss ish it faster. plays Draco Malfoy, has it. And if you’re experiencHarry Potter allowed a joined TikTok and reacted ing Harry Potter for the first lot of people to imagine an to the many romanticized time, welcome to Hogwarts. amazing world in which videos, thirst videos and magic was real and even wholesome POVs posted on Marykate is a junior in Media. the most ordinary people “DracoTok.” mg22@dailyillini.com could join in on the secret. It created a new outlet for nerds and geeks to roleplay in a new universe. It generated more physical activity for nerds by simulating Quidditch, as proven by the existence of our very own Quidditch Club here at the University of Illinois. What’s interesting about Harry Potter fans is that there has been a resurgence of fan activity in the past couple of years, more noticeably these past few months. This resurgence has allowed for the new genPHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB eration to experience the Emma Watson, Rupert Grint and Daniel Radcliffe star in “Harry “magic” of Harry Potter and Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1,” released on Nov. 19, all it has to offer. 2010. Columnist Marykate contends the Harry Potter series is These kids can feel the seeing a revival over TikTok, reinvigorating its fanbase.
H
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIN MCNAMEE
President Donald Trump removes his mask upon return to the White House from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Oct. 5. Columnist Clint accuses the White House of covering up issues regarding Trump’s heath.
Trump lies about COVID-19 President fails to offer adequate proof of health status, recovery
certainly not out of the hospital. That statement may appear baffling at first, but the White House actually has an entire medical wing just for situations like this one. The White House Medical Unit (WHMU), as it is formally known, is responsible for providing regular medical care to the presiCLINT DOZIER dent, the vice president SENIOR and other White House COLUMNIST staff. The WHMU is a fullyfledged medical facilthe evening of ity that can do just about Monday, Oct. 5, everything short of perPresident Donforming major surgery, ald Trump was ceremowhich only adds to the niously transported via confusion over why the Marine One from the Wal- president was taken to ter Reed National MiliWalter Reed in the first tary Medical Center back place. President Trump’s to the White House. doctor and medical staff It was no surprise that further added to this Trump chose to leave confusion by seeming to Walter Reed in the evedownplay the severity ning — when more people of the president’s condiare watching television. tion, even as administraHe used the situation as a tion officials said privatechance to declare victoly that there was cause for One aspect of King’s writing, recommended by ry against his COVID-19 significant concern. career that deserves reccritics and fellow scribes in infection to the American Given that all of the NOAH NELSON ognition is how prolific his any genre for anyone interpeople. Trump said in a treatments reportedly SENIOR work is. Yes, mostly everyested in improving their video on Twitter that he received during his stay COLUMNIST one knows him for his horcraft. now felt “better than (he) at Walter Reed — suppleror novels. But over the last Most readers I know are did 20 years ago.” mental oxygen, the ste40 years, he has written pretty hesitant about readTrump’s supporters roid dexamethasone and hat are you afraid some great books in other ing one of King’s books. It’s were also eager to downRegeneron’s experimenof? The dark? genres. understandable, given that I play the president’s COV- tal antibody therapy — Heights? Clowns? In the fantasy genre, he acted the same way severID-19 infection and procould almost certainly be If you were to ask any vorahas penned many hits like al years ago. This October, mote the narrative that continually administered cious reader, they might tell the “The Dark Tower” series, there’s no better time than he had already beaten the to him from the WHMU you a Stephen King book “Insomnia” and “Rose Mad- now to pick up a King book. disease. Kelly Loeffler, going forward, we can call will do the trick. Heck, they der.” Diving into the sciHowever, don’t choose one a United States Senator his sudden journey back might even tell you the ence fiction world, works of his long works that stretch from Georgia and notato the White House what author himself is scary. like “11/22/63,” “Under the several hundred pages. ble sycophant of Trump, it really was. As it’s currently HallowDome” and most recently, Instead, start with one of his tweeted a video of the Just like the rest of een season, it’s an appro“The Institute” are unbeshort stories or a small book president tackling COVthe Trump presidency priate time to talk about lievably great. Outside of like “The Girl Who Loved ID-19 to the ground and — and indeed the entirethe name of the best-sellwriting novels, King also Tom Gordon,” “Elevation” punching it repeatedly ty of Trump’s life — this ing author which speaks has various short story color “Joyland.” Try to sample outside of a WWE ring. was nothing more than a for itself. For over 50 years lections to his name like King before you dive into Let’s be clear here: cheap publicity stunt. now, King has kept readers “Different Seasons,” which his longer and more popular Trump may no longer That fact in and of up at night due to his count- contains famous works books. be at Walter Reed Mediitself is not unforgivable. less pieces of literature filled like “Rita Hayworth and Above all, King’s name fits cal Center, but he is most Politicians love to put with horror, suspense and a the Shawshank Redemphim well. If there ever was a whole lot of good stories. The tion” and “Apt Pupil,” and crown for someone who has man is a literary legend, and this year’s collection “If It won at writing, King should he has the career to prove it. Bleeds.” no doubt earn it. He’s one Known for horror clasOne of the best books to of the best authors writing sics like “Carrie,” “Salem’s King’s name doesn’t pertain today, and the literary world Lot” and “It,” which have all to fiction. Rather, it’s his crit- couldn’t thank him enough been made into movies over ically acclaimed work “On for his contributions. the years, I agree that King Writing: A Memoir of the just keeps churning books Craft,” which is part memoir Noah is a junior in LAS. out like a machine. Not that and part how-to section on noahen2@dailyillini.com there’s anything wrong with resident Trump, you to what happens when that. And his wheels keep on have had almost four we place an incompetent turning. years to lead the Unit- business leader into the Having read a few of his ed States and have failed Oval Office. Quality of novels in the past, King us by your own choosing. life is not a business deciknows how to write a stoWhether it be in foreign sion, sir, but rather it is ry. He takes an ordinary policy or domestic polia humane choice to be character or situation and cy, you have not protectempathetic to those who puts his own twist on it, ed the United States as cannot help themselves. thus expanding them into Commander-in-Chief. Joe Biden has that a novel for several hundred Now comes the latest empathy. He will return pages. Though his narranews about your complete the United States to tives do run off on wild tandisrespect for our milithe era when we were gents sometimes, one has to tary and total disregard respected internationally keep reading until the end PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANIE LAWTON / WIKIPEDIA for the COVID-19 virus. because of how we treat because then everything will Author Stephen King is pictued speaking above. Columnist We the American people our citizens domestically. all make sense. Noah maintains King impresses with writing in diverse styles. have finally borne witness This election is a clear
On
‘Scary-good’ wordsmith awes
W
a positive spin on anything and everything that may affect their political fortunes, and Trump is no exception. But this is different. Not only is Trump obviously lying to the American people by pretending to have already beaten COVID-19 — which is wrong — but he is putting lives in danger by downplaying the potential severity of the virus. He said in a statement after leaving Walter Reed, “Don’t be afraid of COVID.” It is not uncommon for COVID-19 patients to be sick with the disease for weeks, and it will be interesting to see whether or not Trump’s condition really improves in the days and weeks ahead. I truly hope he gets better. No matter how incompetent of a leader I think Trump is, I would never wish the man poor health or anything worse. It will be even more interesting, though, to observe how the electorate — which by most all indications is already fiercely opposed to Trump — will respond if the president’s health condition worsens as his body continues to fight COVID-19. This would be a clear signal that when Trump left Walter Reed and returned to the White House, he was either severely mistaken about the state of his own health, or he was lying about it. I doubt the American people will reward him at the polls on Nov. 3 if either one turns out to be true. Clint is a senior in LAS. cdozie2@dailyillini.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
President Trump displays disrespect, negligence
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choice between those who have never had it so good and those of us who know we can do better. Biden will lead us there. Fellow citizens, exercise your right to vote to preserve your sacred heritage, promote your children’s future and obtain the blessings of liberty we all cherish. To restore a sense of decency to the United States, rise and vote! jgbialek2@roadrunner.com
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS | opinions@dailyillini.com with the subject “Letter to the Editor.” The Daily Illini reserves the right to edit for length, libel, grammar and spelling errors, and Daily Illini style or to reject any contributions. Letters must be limited to 300 words. Contributions must be typed and include the author’s name, address and phone number. University students must include their year in school and college.
1B
MONDAY
October 12, 2020 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com
SPORTS
FOOTBALL
WOMEN’S GYMNASTICS
Mia Townes aspires to have breakout season post-injury BY JONAH PEREZ STAFF WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID CRAAN / FIGHTING ILLINI ATHLETICS
Redshirt senior Trevon Sidney holds the ball to his head during football practice on Wednesday. After transferring to Illinois last season but seeing little playing time due to injury, Sidney will start his senior year season against Wisconsin Oct. 24.
Trevon Sidney returns after setbacks BY CARSON GOURDIE ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
He hadn’t played a significant down of football since October 2019. His career had been rocked by recurring injuries and transferring. He was ready to play, but it appeared the Big Ten presidents were going to deny him that opportunity this season. Senior wide receiver Trevon Sidney didn’t let it discourage him. “I try to think of everything as positive,” Sidney said. “I definitely wanted to play. I was saying, ‘Maybe I’m not ready. Maybe my hamstring and leg aren’t going to be ready. Maybe it was a good thing.’ But I kind of had a feeling it was all going to work out.” While the California native remained upbeat, Big Ten presidents reversed their decision, and now the always-positive Sidney gears up for his senior season, starting with Wisconsin in two weeks. Sidney, who transferred to Illinois last season after graduating from the University of Southern California, has seen little action in Champaign. After playing in the first five games last season — finishing with 123 yards and one touchdown — Sidney suffered a leg injury against Minnesota and underwent season-ending surgery.
Despite COVID-19 interfering with his recovery, Sidney stayed focused and lived at the facilities. “I’ve given too much (to the game) to let anything stop me,” Sidney said. “COVID-19 kind of set me back a little bit. Got sent back home for like four months. When I came back here, I’ve been grinding every day. I’ve been in the training room all day, two, three sessions.” Hard work has guided Sidney to where he is now. But throughout his life, one constant presence pushed him, whether he liked it or not at the time — his father, Carlos. “He would film every (football, baseball and basketball) game,” Sidney said. “We would come home after the game and watch the film. He would tell me what I was doing right and what I was doing wrong. I hated it, but it kind of worked out for me at the same time.” Sidney was born in Pasadena, California, the home of the Rose Bowl. Growing up in California during the 2000s, the USC Trojans dominated college football with stars like Troy Polamalu, Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush captivating audiences every Saturday, including Sidney. Sidney, who used to play running back, idolized Bush, so he and his father used to
practice the Heisman Trophy winner’s moves. “I wanted to go to USC,” Sidney said. “I would watch USC games and watch Reggie Bush. I would see him do a move and right after that game, we would go to the park and work on it until I got it done.” “He’s been my coach, my mentor, my father. He’s been everything. He means the world to me.” While the country was under lockdown, Carlos suffered a stroke and was hospitalized for months. Sidney, while still rehabbing and training for this season, was at home taking care of his father. Luckily, Carlos is doing better now and continues to provide motivation to the wide receiver. Sidney even found COVID-19 to have a positive effect. “When I’m done and don’t want to do anything, I think of him,” Sidney said. “He’s been a fighter his whole life. In the instances where I got hurt, I’ve seen him fight through so much, so it’s an inspiration for me ... if there wasn’t COVID, I wouldn’t have been home to take care of him, so I look at everything as a blessing.” Sidney’s consistent positivity has shaped not only his college career, but also his life. Sidney wanted to play at USC his entire childhood, and he made it hap-
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
pen. He said he would graduate in three years, and he did. But during his struggles — injuries and lack of playing time at USC — Sidney has taken initiative and made something out of it. While Sidney prepares to play his first full season since 2018, he’ll join head coach Lovie Smith’s most talented offense yet. Although Illinois has several talented targets for Brandon Peters, Sidney will have the chance to have an immediate impact as long as he stays healthy. “I feel like I have really good energy,” Sidney said. “When I get my opportunity, I will make the best of mine. I just love cheering everyone on. I’ve battled through a lot of stuff, so I’m kind of that positive reinforcement.” Sidney is two weeks away from getting to play his first game in over a year. For an athlete who’s been through the wringer, the California native couldn’t be happier putting on the pads against Illinois’ division rival. “It’s going to be crazy,” Sidney said. “The game is actually on my birthday. We beat them last year. They’re going to want revenge. I wouldn’t want it any other way.” @gourdiereport gourdie2@dailyillini.com
Eva Rubin brings height, experience to Illini BY NITHIN REDDY STAFF WRITER
The Illinois women’s basketball team struggled to compete in the paint a season ago, ranking last in the Big Ten in rebounding margin and scoring inside the arc. Head coach Nancy Fahey and the Illini are hoping Eva Rubin is the answer to the Illini’s interior woes. “She’s a stopper at the basket that’s (6-foot-5-inches), that changes the game,” Fahey said. “I don’t believe (defenses) can just let Eva be at the low block and stop her one-on-one.” Rubin is a redshirt junior transfer from Arizona State. Before moving out west to play in Tempe, Rubin played high school basketball at Homewood-Flossmoor, near Chicago. With her size and skill, she stood out, helping Homewood-Flossmoor place fourth in the IHSA 4A state tournament her sophomore year, and she earned a McDonald’s All-American Game nomination her senior year. As for Rubin’s decision to come to Champaign, she stated the importance of staying in-state. “(Coming home) was a big part of my decision,” Rubin said. “Fortunately, when I entered the transfer portal, I had some pretty good options for schools that were back home and here at Illinois. It wasn’t my intent to come home, but when I was
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIGHTING ILLINI ATHLETICS
Redshirt junior Eva Rubin flexes with a basketball. Rubin transferred to Illinois from Arizona State in December 2019.
given those options, it was hard to turn down.” Rubin also cited her fit in the team as a main reason for the move to Illinois. She felt the coaching staff suited her demeanor and playing style, and she enjoyed the atmosphere around campus. Luckily for Rubin, her transfer from ASU has been easier than most transferring this fall. She announced her commitment last December and joined the Illini in the spring of 2020, as she was able to continue her academic career. Being around campus for
two months in the spring allowed Rubin to get acclimated with the University before COVID-19 forced the school to shut down and switch to remote learning. “I had a great time here last semester before everything was shut down due to COVID, so I definitely got a feel for the campus and culture while also meeting some great people,” Rubin said. Another reason for Rubin’s transfer was the way the staff dealt with her medical background. Rubin is a type-1 diabetic, and she
knowing your worth and knowing your value, even when you’re not doing all of your gymnastics,” Walsh said. “That was her story, last year, she had a ton more that she wanted to give, but the injury and the timeline held her out ... Last year, the best for her was not to push her too hard on the events that her leg wasn’t ready to do. “This year we can fully expect her to communicate well and do what she can when she can and talk to us and modify when we need to so that she can do her absolute best this year.” Developing the Illini culture starts during recruitment. Walsh knew Townes was fit to be an Illini regardless of the injury she sustained her last year of high school, a champion-minded individual with strong physical, emotional and mental traits the women’s gymnastic’s program looks for in all its recruits. Even with all the support Mia has gotten from her Illinois “family,” nobody can replace the strong bond she has with her parents. “With all of my surgeries, my mom and my dad were right there, making sure I was good,” Townes said. “I’m not a super emotional person, but they knew that I was hurting and I was frustrated. This process was probably the most frustrating thing I’ve ever been through in my life. I would take a step forward, then (the doctors) would be like, ‘Nope, you have another infection.’ “Every single step of the way my dad and mom were like, ‘This is just one more thing, we believe in you ... You don’t have to go through this; we will support you regardless.’” The injury in the short term was terrible, but in long term, it was just what Townes needed to go to the next level. It made her take her body more seriously than she had ever done before. It was also like a redshirt year, a year spent learning and studying what was going to be expected of her when she could return to the mat. “I fully expect Mia to be a powerhouse on vault,” Walsh said. “We’re excited for her to be a leader and have a higher valued vault for our program. On beam, she is rock solid and always has been, even when she was in high school as a club athlete. “I expect her to have a ton of finesse and confidence and to be somebody that the team can depend on. On floor, she was one of our best athletes last year. So I think that we’ll see her excel even more on that event.”
Mia Townes, a sophomore from Texas, had an unusual first year at Illinois. Her freshman campaign was difficult due to injury, filled with surgeries and setbacks. “It was my senior year in high school ... I ruptured my Achilles during the warmup of our competition,” Townes said. “I was warming up for an AA (all-around, a combination of four individual events), and it popped on the takeoff. After the first surgery, I had four other surgeries within that year. My last one was last November.” For any athlete, the worst part is not sharing the field of play with their teammates and going through the throws of competition with them. Townes wanted to compete, but her body wouldn’t let her. Recovery is never easy; rehab is a grueling process. Having to start it over four times and persevering through it is a testament to Townes’ internal drive and her support system. “I get motivated by my teammates because all of them are so passionate about gymnastics, and (Coach Walsh) is super passionate about what she does,” Townes said. “It really sparks a fire in all of us. It unites us and makes us come alive. “Another motivator is also winning the Big Ten Championship. Two years ago the girls got second ... and last year, we didn’t get to compete. So we were close to winning a Big Ten Championship. That’s all we’ve had our eyes on. The fact that we didn’t get to compete last year is another big, huge motivator. We’re just waiting for the world to see us.” A big part of her motivation comes from the confidence she has in herself, her teammates and coaches. Coach Walsh echoed this sentiment, saying Townes grew in her trust of herself and the process. She didn’t let an injury stop her from learning and preparing for the future, which has been on full display since the women’s gymnastics team returned to campus at the beginning of the semester. Tow nes k nows she wouldn’t be in the place she is in now if it wasn’t for her teammates and coaches. After her fifth surgery of the year, she was devastated and instead of keeping her away, she was still involved heavily with the team. Townes was encouraged to be at practice and in the thick of things. This gave her eagerness to start the recovery process as soon as possible. “The culture that we’ve built and that she has @jonahap2 played a huge part in is jonahperez@dailyillini.com
felt the coaching staff at ASU did not fully understand how Rubin’s situation was different. Rubin said there was a “level of disconnect” between herself and the coaching staff that led to her transfer. As for her time with Illinois, Rubin has felt the staff has been accommodating to her specific needs. “Coach Fahey has been great, understanding the process and trusting my judgment when I do have to sit out,” Rubin said. “Also our athletic trainer, Autumn Taylor, has been very supportive and really put in her time to educate herself on diabetes.” Rubin was not able to compete right away because of her transfer, but after the NCAA approved her transfer waiver in August, Rubin was granted immediate eligibility to play in the upcoming season. She will be needed for this Illini team. Despite playing limited minutes for Arizona State in her first two years, Rubin will be a key player in her junior campaign. The Illini are losing six players from a season ago, including one of their starting bigs, Ali Andrews. Last season the Illini went with a heavy outside approach, shooting the fourth-most threes in the RYAN ASH THE DAILY ILLINI Big Ten. Andrews was a big Sophomore Mia Townes competes in the floor routine event during the meet against Penn State on Feb. 7. After five
SEE RUBIN | 2B surgeries in 2019, Townes is expected to return as a leader.
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SOCCER
Freshmen class adapts to college, fall season without competition BY ANGELLE CORTES STAFF WRITER
With the graduation of a couple of several key players, including defenders Alicia Barker and Lexi Carrier, goalkeeper Jaelyn Cunningham, midfielder Arianna Veland and forward Kelly Maday, Illinois soccer head coach Janet Rayfield brought in seven freshmen for the 2024 class. The freshmen class includes goalkeepers Julia Cili and Natalie Phelps, defender Joanna VerzosaDolezal, midfielder Kennedy Berschel and forwards Makala Woods, Zoey Kollhoff and Julia Eichenbaum. With the decision to move the season to spring, the team has been given an opportunity to fine-tune its players. For freshmen, they are given more time to get used to the team and the tempo of college soccer. Rayfield knows that making connections is hard given the pandemic and social distancing guidelines, but she says the upperclassmen have been using soccer to integrate the freshman into the team. “When we’re at training, when we’re at practice, I think we’re all cognizant of making sure that the freshmen are all integrated into different groups, that they’re hearing from different people,” Rayfield said. One thing that really helps integrate the freshmen is the upperclassmen who play the same positions as them. “I think a great example is our two senior goalkeepers and our two freshmen goalkeepers,” Rayfield said. “The seniors have really taught them expectations, taught them kind of how we do things the Illini way, what does it look like when we’re
PHOTO COURTESY OF FIGHTING ILLINI ATHLETICS
The Illinois soccer team stands together in a line during the opening of the Demirjian Park on Sept. 15, 2019. The team’s usual fall season was postponed to spring 2021.
going forward everyone is really pushing to make the best we can.” Along with practice, the team also plays in a intersquad exhibition match every two weeks starting in the middle of August called Friday Night Lights. According to Rayfield, it’s fun comparing videos from Friday Night Lights to games from the regular season and noticing the intensity and speed are the same. “All of our players are getting to play 90 minutes of that kind of intensity and that kind of pace,” Rayfield said. “That outcome matters to them, it’s a competitive situation and rarely in our normal run of things do we get to have that many opportunities to play that many minutes.” Although Berschel is out with an ACL injury on her right leg, she still observes from the sidelines. “It is a completely different experience than observing at practice,” Berschel said. “Everybody is out there treating it as if it were a real Big Ten game, which is kind of really exciting for me to experience.” As for Cili, her Friday Night Lights experience was completely different because she was super anxious about making a good impression on her teammates. “Overall I feel like it has been really good and the team has been really helpful with how they do things and the language that they use,” Cili said. “Friday Night Lights is a great way for the team so see the type of goalkeeper you are and to see the type of team you’re playing with.”
training, what does warm-up look like, all those different things. Not just what we do, how we do them.” However, bonding isn’t just done at practice. While there are many limitations to bond in a non-athletic setting, the upperclassmen are finding ways to work around it. This year, the freshmen are living at Illini Tower, and right by is an apartment complex where mainly the sophomores and juniors are staying. With a short distance between them, the freshmen are able to connect with upperclassmen easily. “They have done a really good job of texting us and telling us to come over just to talk or kind of get those ice breakers out of the way that they can’t do on the field,” said freshman midfielder Kennedy Berschel. “So they’re conveniently located around the corner, and they just reach out to us to come over and kind of become friends off the field.” With the soccer season kicking off in February, there’s still plenty of time
to prepare and form team chemistry. For the class of 2024, Rayfield said to expect a lot from them. “Expectations for this class are very high, as they are with all our classes, but I think the level that this group comes in with, the level of focus they have already shown in terms of investing in their development,” Rayfield said. “It’s a group that has shown that they’re here and ready to work and ready to take this program and help it become and stay consistently a nationally competitive program.” Three months into being at Illinois, the freshmen are slowly but surely adapting to being at a Big Ten school and team. For Berschel, time management was one of the hardest things she had to adjust to when coming to Illinois. “We have practice every day on top of classes and now because the fall is our offseason the hours are quite heavy,” Berschel said. As a mechanical engineering major, Berschel already
has a heavy course load in her first semester. She has been using many resources like other players on the team as some of them are also engineering majors. “I’ve talked to Aleah (Treiterer) a bunch, she is a sophomore on the team,” Berschel said. “She has helped me go through my schedule and has offered help if needed. Also, Janet is there and Shari (Clapp), our academic adviser, has been really supportive throughout everything with our weekly meetings and is always there to check in.” Without a fall season, practice helps fill in the gap and Friday Night Lights Scrimmages brings a sense of competition. At practice, freshman goalkeeper Julia Cili looks forward to goalkeeping games like goalkeeper wars. Goalkeeper wars is a game between two keepers where one goalkeeper has to score on the other. The goals are set up 18 yards apart, and the goalkeeper that has to score only has a limited amount of touches to get the ball in the
goal. “Since it’s another goalkeeper trying to score on you, you know what their weaknesses are in practice and you try and aim for them,” Cili said. “It’s basically going for each other’s throats nonstop until somebody gets three goals.” With a game like that, everybody on the sidelines is watching and picking a keeper to win as well as creating banter. “It’s always high stakes, people are always yelling just trying to come out on top,” Cili said. “I feel like that energy is unmatched with any other group (on the team).” For Berschel, she looks forward to the competitive environment at practice. “Everybody wants to get better all the time, both on an individual level and a team level,” Berschel said. “Right now we’re working on trying to figure out our team dynamic with formation because we lost the great players who just graduated. So trying to fill those gaps @AngelleCortes and create a new dynamic acorte37@dailyillini.com
jump shots. Expect a different approach this season. Junior forward Mackenpart of that, setting the Illi- zie Blazek was an imporni up to have all five players tant inside presence for the on the court looking to take team last season, but inju-
ries derailed her season. The addition of Rubin, along with standout sophomore forward Kennedi Myles coming off of an impressive first season, gives Fahey a
variety of options inside that she has never seen before in her time at Illinois. Ultimately for Rubin, she’s striving for success individually and for the
team. Her goal going into the season is to make an All-Big Ten team, especially because she notes the high caliber of bigs in the conference. As for the team, she’s
FROM 1B
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hoping to improve the team from a season ago and build the program into a threat in the Big Ten. nithinr2@dailyillini.com
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COVID-19
Alma Sealine directs University Housing’s safety procedures COVID-19 forces changes in housing availability to create spaces for quarantine, isolations BY ELIZABETH SAYASANE FEATURES EDITOR
One of the difficulties associated with opening up campus again this fall was how to move thousands of students into University Housing without creating unnecessary risks. Alma Sealine, the executive director of University Housing, has been tackling this issue since March. Sealine’s position gives her the responsibility to handle all operations and activities that go through University Housing from dining services to room contracts. With thousands of residents and staff struggling to navigate housing situations, this is a sizable task. Living in the dorms now looks very different to past students’ experience, starting with registration for spaces. Spaces were intentionally made unavailable online, both to account for quarantine and isolation spaces and to de-densify the floors so residents would not have to worry about crowded living spaces. As far as procedures for inside the residences, Sealine said, “We are following the CDC Illinois Department of Public Health and our local public health
guidelines related to all of our operations.” High-traffic surface areas are cleaned three times a day using hospitalgrade cleaning products. In the dining halls, all meals were to-go until Sept. 20 when they opened 25% of the space to eat. Residence Hall Directors have moved most of the programming that typically engages residents online. Most connections taking place between floor members now happens virtually. “I think that the students who have returned are very resilient,” Sealine said. “They have gotten used to a new expectation, a new normal.” For the most part, Sealine said students have been cooperative with these new procedures. They also have offered their input and suggestions as to how things can continue to be improved for students. One additional point of consideration for University Housing was ensuring it remained accommodating for all students who need it. Earlier in the semester, students expressed their concerns over the closing of the Beckwith Residential Support Services Program. This program
provides students with physical disabilities support and amenities. Sealine said that University Housing has stayed true to their commitment to accommodate all students by providing ADA acceptable rooms and hiring personal assistants. “When students bring to our attention a concern that they have, we work with them and our campus colleagues to try to provide the best service and resources for that student to be able to continue to stay connected and to have a successful experience here,” Sealine said. Sealine has noticed how regular testing requirements have helped set apart University Housing’s operations from other schools. In speaking to her colleagues across the country, she said comparatively, Illinois offers more safety to its students and staff. “The nice thing for our regular testing is that we can start to notice trends of where cases are starting to increase,” Sealine said. “We then can start making plans of ‘okay so what’s happening in the lobby areas? Are students hanging out in the hallways where they shouldn’t be?’” While Sealine said the
majority of students comply with the new precautions and regulations, they take it seriously when they receive reports of noncompliance. Students who do not follow the guidelines pose risks to the safety and security of the community. University Housing investigates reports and, in some cases, will administratively cancel individuals’ contracts. Once this happens, the cases are forwarded to the University Judicial Process. This will determine the status of a student going forward. In some instances, individuals have their student status removed for a period of time. “I think that when students learn that that is how we are going to respond to lack of compliance, they realize that we are very serious about their safety and security,” she said. As policies and procedures continue to fluctuate as new safety information emerges, Sealine and her department have worked to maintain stability amidst the chaos. Sealine said everything has been consumed by adjusting to COVID. “We opened a brand new dining center and a renovated residence hall and in
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALMA SEALINE
Executive Director of University Housing Alma Sealine poses for a headshot on Wednesday. Sealine has been in charge of housing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
a typical year that would have been the headline for us,” she said. “It’s something that kind of went to the back of my mind and it’s something that we definitely should celebrate.” Sealine and her team have been working since March to create a safe environment for all those living on campus and relying on
the University for housing. “ We, every day, are thinking about their experience and their success and we are trying to respond as quickly as possible to the changing parameters that this pandemic has required,” Sealine said. eis3@dailyillini.com
Chancellor discusses after-break testing UI sees lowest week of
new cases since summer
1. What will COVID testing look like after Thanksgiving break? Will students still have access if they live near campus?
BY ETHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR
We will continue to provide on-campus testing after the Fall Break. Students, faculty and staff will still have access to continue their testing program, and we ask that they continue to do so for the safety of our entire community.
2. How do you think students’ education has been impacted by remote learning?
It is impossible to replace a fully residential learning experience, and we all miss the elements of a fully inperson semester. However, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we believe we have delivered an extremely high-quality educational experience to all of our students by providing a hybrid learning approach. We are confident that our courses — whether online or inperson — have provided students the opportunity to meet their learning outcomes and make progress on their degrees.
3. Is there an update on the University’s saliva testing getting FDA Emergency Use authorization?
MARK CAPAPAS THE DAILY ILLINI
Chancellor Robert Jones prepares to deliver the State of the University address on Jan. 24. Jones answered The Daily Illini’s questions concerning COVID-19 testing after Thanksgiving break.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is now performing its new rapid, saliva-based COVID-19 test on all students, faculty and staff. The university validated its laboratorydeveloped test under CLIA by successfully comparing its performance to an FDA Emergency Use Authorized test. We continue to work toward our own FDA EUA.
4. Will there still be funding for events like Homecoming that will go virtual this year?
We still plan to celebrate Homecoming virtually, and I believe it will be a wonderful opportunity to engage our students, alumni and fans across the globe with virtual programming. We hope to share more details about those activities and events soon.
the COVID-19 pandemic, we have delayed our Early Action deadline from Nov. 1 to Nov. 15. We have also suspended our Early Action notification and will announce all of our freshmen admission decisions in mid-February. We don’t release application numbers or enrollment esti5. As we approach the Nov. mates mid-cycle, but I am 1 admissions deadline, encouraged that our camdo you expect any impact pus enrollment continues on applications and/or to be strong year after year, admissions for 2021? and I don’t anticipate any In order to provide more differences this year. flexibility in the wake of
Stay
ID-19 and identified 2,701 cases of COVID-19 since the testing program began on July 6. The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District began displaying countywide quarantine totals on its website on Thursday. On Sunday, 195 people were released from quarantine, while another 11 quarantined people tested positive for COVID-19. As of Sunday, 7,863 people have quarantined in Champaign County after potential exposure to a COVID-19 positive person, with 1,046 of them currently quarantining. In total, 831 of these close contacts have tested positive for the virus during quarantine. Countywide, 351 people are isolating after testing positive for the virus. Sunday saw 55 confirmed new cases. Of the new cases, 29 of them hail from the 61820 ZIP code, which encompasses most of Campustown.
After a high of 48 new cases on Monday, University testing had its best week since students began moving into campus, with the lowest weekly total of new COVID-19 cases since the summer. During the week ending Friday, the University found 134 new cases from 57,000 tests. The next lowest week spread of COVID-19 happened three weeks ago when the University found 181 new cases from 58,000 tests. The campus community is far from early September when 895 additional students, faculty and staff tested positive for COVID-19 in a single week. Another 11 new campus cases were confirmed on Saturday. Since Aug. 15, 2,614 people have tested positive for COVID-19 on campus. Most of these cases — 2,326 — were found after classes began on Aug. 24, meaning the majority of @esimmsnews the on-campus pandemic ecsimmon@dailyillini.com is from community spread. To date, the University has conducted more than 520,000 tests for COV-
covered so you can stay here. covid19.illinois.edu
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5B
buzz calendar BY RUKAYAH HUSSEIN BUZZ CALENDAR EDITOR
The buzz calendar is a compilation of events happening in the Champaign-Urbana area. Follow our top picks in Monday’s and Thursday’s papers for ideas on what to do on any night of the week, from where to eat to what to watch. Want to submit an event? Email calendar@readbuzz.com.
MONDAY, OCT. 12
Jonathon Parrish at Boomerangs
Virtual Peaceful Monday Hikes PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT MORTAL
Champaign-based artist Matt Mortal poses with his guitar on Sunday afternoon. Matt Mortal released his newest album, “Curtains,” on Sept. 25.
Bandcamp artist releases new album buzz factor: BY SYDNEY WOOD BUZZ STAFF WRITER
Released on Sept. 25, Matt Mortal’s newest album, “Curtains,” features a six-song tracklist
with music ranging from meditative, dreamy lullabies to inharmonious, blaring tracks. Mortal’s album can be found on Bandcamp and is an amalgamation of the minimal wave and postrock genres.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BANDCAMP
The cover of Matt Mortal’s new album “Curtains” is pictured above.
Mortal’s post-rock inspired tracklist subverts the typical rock music elements while giving the genre a fresh new voice. Although the album’s instrumentation range is impressive, many of its songs are looped, leading to repetitive and unexciting sounding music. The album’s first track, “Quiet I’m On the Phone,” begins with a closed hi-hat beat that maintains tempo throughout most songs. Multiple elements of this song are looped, which gives a sense of monotony once you realize the song is four minutes long. However, the track is saved by a guitar and percussion duet that cuts through these looped instrumentals. After the duet ends, new electronic elements are added to the mix, heightening the tune’s quality and eliminating some repetition. “Cliff cavern” is one of the album’s more intense tracks, and its sound is reminiscent of a villain’s intro song in a video game or cartoon. The track features heavy bass and percussive elements
! 9-11 a.m. " A virtual event hosted by Allerton Park and Retreat Center # Free Start your week with a serene hike through Allerton’s natural areas from the comfort of your home! Sit back, relax and enjoy as Natural Areas Manager, Alex, takes you along for a peaceful, nature-filled virtual tour. In each tour, Alex will cover a different subject like wildflowers in bloom, tree identification, river views, birds and the sights and sounds of Allerton.
Virtual Open Mic Night via Zoom!
! 7:30-11:30 p.m. " Virtual Event hosted by The Canopy Club # Free Join the Canopy Club & ChampaignUrbana Open Mic Nights crew, including Mike Ingram, Anika Emily, Moe Pesci da Goodfella, Jake Fava Music, Lola Honey and more for weekly COVID-19 induced Zoom open mics. Until we can all be back at The Canopy Club, this is the best we’ve got.
TUESDAY, OCT. 13
Champaign Farmers Market
! 3-6 p.m. " Champaign Farmers Market, Neil and Washington streets, Champaign # Free The Champaign Farmers Market returns for another season of fresh local food and fun! This year looks slightly different, but you can still shop local vendors to get fresh produce from farmers in our area.
! 5-8 p.m. " Boomerangs Bar and Grill, 1309 E. Washington St., Urbana # Free Join Jonathan Parrish as he performs an acoustic act at Boomerangs this Tuesday. This event will have socially distanced tables, and servers will wear masks. Boomerang’s kitchen closes at 7 p.m., and they’re offering a special on their signature taco salad at $7.50. Domestic beer will cost $2.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 14
Preserved Leaf Mobiles: Crafty Adults
! 7-8:30 p.m. " GA virtual event hosted by Champaign Public Library # Free, but registration is required Come to our live webinar to learn a new craft every month at Crafty Adults! Get all the autumnal vibes with a preserved leaf mobile! Enjoy collecting your favorite leaves and turning them into sculpture. Crafters of all skill levels are welcome.
Tom Grassman at One-Ts Cornerpocket
! 7-9 p.m. " One-Ts Cornerpocket, 123 S. Mattis Ave., Champaign # Free Tommy Grassman’s one-person show sounds like three to five people. Party like a rock star and listen to music from C-U’s best! Tommy’s performance will be indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather. There will also be a full menu available.
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October 12, 2020 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com
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Fruit Bats newest album deserves more attention Insipid reviews from critics fail to reflect artistry buzz factor: BY RAINA KUTLIROFF BUZZ STAFF WRITER
Fans of indie-pop and alternative music who appreciate artists like Dr. Dog, My Morning Jacket, Andrew Bird or Houndmouth might consider Fruit Bats as their next favorite band after a first listen. Some of their most popular hits, and personal favorites, include “Humbug Mountain Song,” “When U Love Somebody” and “Baby Bluebird.” The release of Fruit Bats’ newest album, “The Glory of Fruit Bats,” on Oct. 2, received underwhelming attention from music lovers and critics, which is not a true reflection of how listeners should treat PHOTO COURTESY OF FRUIT BATS’ FACEBOOK the album’s artistry. “The Fruit Bats perform live in Birmingham, Alabama on Nov. 15. The band released their newest album, “The Glory of Fruit Bats,” on Oct. 2. Glory of Fruit Bats” takes listeners on an emotion- tunes, smooth instrumen- dition of Dolly Parton’s “I While some tracks are “My Man on Love,” a that listeners can skip. The al journey through catchy tation and a unique ren- Will Always Love You.” not worth listening to, Judee Sill cover, is a per- first track, “The Glory Of,” others on “The Glory of sonal favorite song and is an interesting choice to Fruit Bats” capture the a transcendent delight. introduce the album. Howtrue essence of Fruit Bats, “Gideon,” the second track ever, it offers a sluggish such as “Caledoniaphilia.” on the album, has smooth start to the excitement “Caledoniaphilia” is one of transitions with each line that follows. The song also the album’s several instru- and beat fading seamless- overuses the words “the mentals and is a beautiful ly into the next. “Garuda” glory of” throughout its track that can relax every is another incredible piece entirety. “Rahula, Years nerve in a person’s body. of music that is reminiscent Later” is not a personal The guitar’s unique and of Fruit Bats’ older style. favorite, but it may be a almost exquisite rhythm One of the most distinc- popular hit for those who screams to be played on tive covers of Dolly Par- like darker and haunting repeat through the listen- ton’s “I Will Always Love refrains. “Stunned One” is er’s headphones. You” is found towards the another sentimental tune Another track that listen- end of the album. This cov- that expresses melancholy ers can appreciate is “The er captures the essence of subject matter, but it is not Rock Doc.” This catchy Parton’s original song, as exhilarating as other song is hard not to dance to made famous by Whitney tracks. while respecting its grass- Houston, but with a powerAlthough “The Glory of roots yet funky elements. ful indie-alternative Fruit Fruit Bats” does not comEric Johnson, the lead sing- Bats spin. The last track pare to their more popuer and songwriter of Fruit on this album, “Dames + lar albums like “MouthBats, uses his voice as the Horsemen,” is the perfect fuls” or “Absolute Loser,” main instrument through- cinematic masterpiece to it is highly recommended out “The Rock Doc,” while complete “The Glory of to pay more attention to utilizing some unique voice Fruit Bats.” the album’s artistry. It can techniques. Although much Overall, “The Glory of be difficult not to relish in too short, the electric gui- Fruit Bats” is a smooth the glory that is Fruit Bats. tar solo in this track can and innovative album full PHOTO COURTESY OF BANDCAMP also capture the listener’s of beautifully produced rkutli2@readbuzz.com The cover for the new Fruit Bats album “The Glory of Fruit Bats” is pictured above. attention. tracks, but there are a few
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looped throughout the song, which are joined by quieter, slow-moving chord changes that produce subtle harmonies that complement the track’s heavier, machinerysounding instrumentals. The next track, “Kang,” is undoubtedly a memorable song from the album because of its solid percussive beat setting the tempo and its catchy bassline. The back-and-forth calls between the guitar and bass add a surprisingly pleasant element to the song’s vibe.
In “Kang,” Mortal’s instrumental looping is a benefit as it provides a solid tempo and allows there to be multiple interactions between different electronic and instrumental elements within the song. Another album favorite, “Where Have I Killed You Before,” begins with a looped drumbeat that is gradually joined by two complementing melodies which ebb and flow like a river. The first melody, the lower melody, comprises slow-moving long tones interspersed with occasional leaps to higher notes.
The second melody, the higher one, sings over the low melody, and its clean tone heightens the track’s meditative a mbia nce. “Where Have I Killed You Before” is a pleasant interruption from the album’s other songs and exhibits a different side of Mortal’s music composition and instrumental skillset. “Hot Mom Jeans” is the album’s longest track and begins with a looped drumbeat that maintains tempo throughout the song until it is interrupted by a synthesizer solo that builds tension until it’s resolved
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when it reverts to the original percussion loop. The track’s bass riff takes center stage as higher instrumental elements echo off the bass riff and fill the spaces the bass riff leaves empty. However, the looped drumbeat is on its own for too long throughout the song, making the track repetitive and unexciting. The album’s last track, “Final Spin,” plays with the idea of back-and-forth calls between the lower bass riff and a higher guitar riff complemented by a unique percussive backing that adds a playful ele-
ment to the track’s energy. Although this track offers little nuance from its repetitive loop, the components work together nicely enough, so it’s not entirely monotonous. A lthough “Curtains” had unique and interesting elements, the overall album felt as if something was missing. Many of the tracks used looped drum beats that became repetitious and monotonous, but there were certain tracks like “Kang” and “Final Spin” where repetition worked in their favor. “Curtains” showcas-
es its unique combination between rock instrumentation and electronic influences. Yet, it is unclear where Mortal draws the line between the two elements, creating an unusual auditory experience for listeners. Mortal’s unique instrumentation rebels against mainstream society’s perception of music, successfully placing “Curtains” within genres of post-rock and minimal wave. smwood2@readbuzz.com
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