The Daily Illini Vol. 150 Issue 36 March 1 by The Daily Illini

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MONDAY March 1, 2021

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Vol. 150 Issue 36

LONGFORM: PART 1

Portraits of faith: ‘Physically distant, emotionally close’ Jewish institutions adapt, overcome pandemic constraints BY MATT TROHER STAFF WRITER

RYAN ASH THE DAILY ILLINI

The Illini Chabad House stands on the corner of Armory Avenue and Arbor street.

It’s coming up on a year since that fateful week in mid-March, when COVID-19 jumped from something people only read in headlines, to suddenly being very real. March 13 was the last day on campus for many students before returning to their homes to quarantine and wait for things to get better. The same occurred for campus institutions — specifically religious institutions. Synagogues, churches and mosques, among other places of worship, closed due to COVID-19. While reopening has been staggered, each institution has had to adapt to keep serving their communities for the past 11 months. There are two univer-

sal aspects to any religion: the individual relationship between the individual and their respective higher power, and the community that forms within a religious institution through their shared devotion to their higher power. However, that communal aspect was taken away when the pandemic forced institutions to close their doors. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is home to roughly 3,500 Jewish students, and myriad Jewish organizations ranging from RSOs to campus institutions. One of these institutions is Illini Hillel, a foundation of Jewish Campus life at the University. Located on the corner of John and Fifth streets, Illini Hillel serves as a center for the Jewish community

at Illinois. Erez Cohen works as the executive director of Illini Hillel. Prior to COVID-19, Cohen worked with Hillel staff and student leadership to create social and cultural programming with a Jewish theme. A typical week would include communal dinners, lunch programs and evening discussions. When students returned to campus in the fall, Cohen was tasked with trying to figure out a way to continue offering programming in the safest way possible. He knew that students who took social distancing the most seriously would also be the most affected by the isolating side effects of social distancing, and aimed to create a space for them to have SEE FAITH | 3A

Waived tests, new deadlines: UI alters 2021 admission process University delays release of early action applications

BY ALIZA MAJID STAFF WRITER

Prospective students received their admission letter from the University on Feb. 19 with new process alterations because of the pandemic. Catherin La, an incoming freshman, is one of the many students who have been struggling to get through the academic year as the pandemic continues to interfere with their everyday lives. College applications were no exception to this issue as students struggled to complete necessary requirements in order to apply to colleges. “It was definitely more difficult to complete appli-

cations. I think because of the stress of doing school all online the first semester and having to do college apps it was much harder. I think that with standardized testing, my ACT got canceled three times. It was kind of frustrating trying to get an ACT score even though I know a lot of schools are test-optional,” La said. Amid COVID-19, the college administration process has changed in order to accommodate students during these unique circumstances. Students are no longer required to submit their standardized test scores and deadlines were altered to aid students in their application process. “During a global pandemic when students can’t take the SAT/ACT, can’t visit the campus and for many, (they) are still taking their high school classes fully remote, it has been difficult to anticipate how this admissions cycle will play out,” said Andy Borst, the

THE DAILY ILLINI FILE PHOTO

Prospective students and their parents take a tour of campus on March 6, 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the admissions process at the University.

INSIDE

Sports: Raina Terry embraces new role

buzz: Video game developer comments on true-crime

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PAGE 5B

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Director of Undergraduate Admissions. The University opened up its submission period on Sept. 1 for all applicants with the early action deadline extending from the original date of Nov. 1 to Nov. 15. The early action notification period was removed in order to give the University more time to assess applications. “We delayed the release of admission decisions for early action applications to the same time as our regular decision applicants,” Borst said. “Students who applied by the early action deadline were given priority consideration for our most competitive programs, honors and merit scholarships.” Students applying all received their notification about their admission status on the same day regardless of their application deadline. “I did apply early action but everyone’s decisions came at the same time,” La said. “I know when you apply early action you usually get your decision back in December but having to wait like an extra two months was kind of nerve-racking.” The University decided to omit standardized testing for students applying for the Fall 2021 freshman admission due to the pandemic limiting opportunities for students to take the exams. This exception was made for one year in order to accommodate this current situation. “I think that it actually positively impacted me because I’m generally not a great standardized test taker so I didn’t submit my score but my GPA was pretty solid,” said Naseem Haleem, a prospective student in GIES. “I think it definitely helped me out because if I had to submit my score I’m not sure that it would have been that great. I think it would have hurt my admission honestly.” Students are now waiting on any potential scholarships that will be available to them by April 1 and send in their decision by May 1. “Many students were admitted to highly competitive programs without test scores. Students’ performance in rigorous core academic classes and their ability to articulate meaning from their experiences played a larger role in our decisions,” Borst said. alizam2@dailyillini.com

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CAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI

Illinois student Tom Wheeler takes a University COVID-19 test at the ARC on Feb. 1. The University tests about 10,000 students per day.

Champaign, campus health officials hunt for virus hotspots, variants BY ALEXANDRA GERGOVA STAFF WRITER

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise steadily, the University’s SHIELD team has been actively studying the distribution of COVID-19 cases by location in order to instruct certain locations to begin testing more frequently than others, a safety measure that was also employed in the fall semester. According to data shown in the recently updated COVID-19 dashboard, the University tests around 10,000 students a day, with 9,972 students being tested on Feb. 25. These tests are only broken down by population on the dashboard; however, the SHIELD team also analyzes what locations these cases are coming from, according to Allison Copenbarger Vance, a spokesman for the University and a Content Strategy Director in Public Affairs. “We have some data scientists and other experts — epidemiologists as well — who sort of look at the way that the infection basically patterns or trends in our own University community to see what mitigation steps we might need to take,” Vance said. “So, you know, in terms of how it’s spreading, they are looking at the number of cases, where those cases are and how many cases are in each area every single day.” Following these analyses, the experts make recommendations about how to proceed. One of these recommendations involves implementing an everyother-day-testing-order for entire housing locations, such as residence halls, apartments or private-certified housing. Residences in a location that has been determined to

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Opinions

require every other day testing must do so because the location has received either one positive case in the past three days or three or more cases in the past seven days. “The reason they do it by building and not by specific address is because, of course, we also want to make sure that we are protecting individuals’ privacy,” Vance said. When the team notices a location that falls under this criteria, they flag the location and alert the rest of the team that the location must immediately be forced to test every other day. “Typically we do that once per week,” Vance said. “We make that change once per week unless the SHIELD team notices an increase midweek.” After the SHIELD team communicates that a building meets the criteria to the Office of Student Affairs, an email is sent to all residents alerting them of this change. “Their building access status has also changed to be every other day, so the technical piece is that they’re in both the boarding pass and the Safer Illinois app,” Vance said. “It will change so that they are on every other day instead of twice per week.” Typically, the distribution is evenly split between residence halls, private-certified housing and private apartments. However, the buildings required to partake in this safety measure fluctuate consistently. “Every week when we put people on those lists, we also take people off of those lists,” Vance said. “So it’s a different building based on what the data is telling us. Sometimes if locations continue to show that they still are having three more cases in the last seven days, they

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will be left on the list. But there’s a lot of movement on that list, on or off.” Digging for variants Besides closely analyzing data for patterns in location, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District has also been sequencing samples for the B117 variant if they meet the criteria set forth by the CDC. Sequencing occurs in the lab and is used to determine specific strains of the virus, according to Awais Vaid, Deputy Administrator and Epidemiologist of the CUPHD. “It takes not just hours but days to sequence samples,” Vaid said. “So not every single sample is set up to be sequenced when they do the PCR testing of a sample. And if certain characteristics are met, then those are the ones that are then sent for sequencing.” The CDC has established two criteria that must be met: the S gene must not be present and the cycle time must be below 28. If the sample meets these, the CDC recommends it to be sequenced. Though the community has confirmed at least a dozen cases of the B117 variant in the community, the spread appears to be limited. “We have been keeping a very close watch on the number of cases and we are trying to catch those, even the probable cases, very early and prioritize their case investigation and contact tracing,” Vaid said. “So because of that, I think we are confident at this point it has not occurred as much so far.” While the CUPHD has not determined a specific location that has tested positive for cases of the variant, it is SEE HOTSPOTS | 3A

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Road barricades sit on the middle lane all down Green Street. The City of Champaign has implemented new rules to prevent illegal parking on the street.

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Champaign prevents illegal parking on Green Street BY CHIEH HSU STAFF WRITER

Local government has taken action to prevent the middle-lane of Campustown’s busiest street section from being filled with cars. On Friday, the City of Champaign began implementing their plans to prevent illegal parking along the 400-600 blocks of Green Street

in Campustown. Champaign Public Works placed barricades and additional no-parking signs in the center turn lane to remind drivers that parking and standing in the roadway is not allowed. The city has also removed pickup zones on Green Street that were temporarily setup for takeout during

COVID-19. Champaign promised to “increase patrols in the area to advise motorists of parking rules” and to ticket and/or tow vehicles that are illegally parked in the roadway. The changes aim to “reduce the chances of vehicular-pedestrian accidents.” Outside of delivery drivers and pickup locations that

were set up early in the pandemic, parking in these Green Street zones wasn’t ever legal. For unloading and dropping packages, drivers are recommended to park on nearby side streets, like Wright, John, Fifth and Sixth streets. chiehh3@dailyillini.com

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NEWS

ISG holds town hall on hate speech County ranks second

in full vaccination rate

versity can require students to listen without disrupting in a classroom setting, but the University generally cannot restrict a students’ speech because of the content. In regards to the recent controversy regarding University response to Palestinian activists on campus, Mazzone explained how the University administration’s role is not to provide any expertise about the topic, but rather to facilitate conversations with debate and dialogue. “I think there’s very little value in trying to enlist the government in the form of a University administrator to end the conversation by taking your side,” Mazzone said. Mazzone also talked about how there is no specific category of speech called “hate speech” that wouldn’t also be protected speech under the First Amendment, but “the fact that you have a right to do something or say something doesn’t necessarily make it wise to say.” “Free speech isn’t free as there is always a cost,” said Dr. Shawna Patterson-Stephens, associate vice chancellor for Student Affairs and director of the Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations. This cost may be psychological or emotional effects on the person listening, according to Stephens. She also stressed the importance of not “fighting fire with fire” and instead focusing on finding “spaces of affirmation” across campus that allow students to engage in constructive dialogue with each other. If students are faced with any form of verbal harassment, they have options as to how they choose to respond. Sarah Colome, director of the Women’s Resource Center on campus, discussed how the center can assist students in responding to harassment by either taking action, creating a safety plan or providing other resources based on the students’ needs. Justin Brown, director of

the Office for Student Conflict Resolution, said how students can report instances of biased or hate-motivated behavior to either the Office for Student Conflict Resolution or the Bias Assessment and Response Team for action or resources. OSCAR deals with instances of biased or hate-motivated behavior that wouldn’t be protected under the First Amendment either because it takes the form of vandalism, physical assault or creates a hostile environment. Behavior that creates a hostile environment is “behavior that is so severe or pervasive and objectively offensive that unreasonably interferes with a student’s ability to fully participate in the university community,” according to Brown. Brown said BART deals with informal responses to

speech that are protected under the first amendment by providing support to those who need it and encouraging voluntary dialogue in the campus community following a BART report. “Bias teams (including BART) really emerged from the fact that so many of the problematic behaviors that target marginalized and underrepresented students within university committee are often protected,” Brown said. Egiebor said that as a student activist, the organization of this meeting was important to her. She is glad the town hall meeting went well and is excited to see what conversations ISG can assist in facilitating in the future.

munal dining is a great way to foster community, and offering food helps to combat food insecurity, a growing problem on college campuses regardless of religious beliefs. However, COVID-19 has helped Cohen realize that it is not the food itself that’s important, but rather what the food can bring. “We learned that students are really, really looking for content and connection,” Cohen said. “The food is no longer the main attraction, its being with each other. I think that’s going to be a cultural shift for the rest of the decade at least. Anyone in middle school or high school right now is experiencing this deep isolation, and bringing people together is going to be an attraction for pretty far out in the future.” Cohen explained the unique challenges COVID-19 has brought on the Jewish faith. “There’s a unique element in Jewish practice that basically says that practicing Jewish people have two obligations,” Cohen said. “One is they need to pray on their own, but the other obligation is they need to come together as a community and pray. That second part has been extremely challenging during this pandemic. That created a whole new experience for Jews where the religious authorities, the Rabbis, had to say ‘your life,’ which is another Jewish value that plays into that, ‘your life is more important than your communal prayer.’” Another Jewish institution on campus is the Chabad Center For Jewish Life & Living. Eighteen years ago, Dovid Tiechtel and his wife Golde moved to Champaign with

the goal of starting a Chabad house on campus. A Chabad house, named for the Chabad movement, is a center for disseminating traditional Judaism and providing a space for a campus’s Jewish community. The Teichtel’s succeeded in their goal, establishing a vibrant center for Jewish life in 2003 that has grown enough to warrant moving into a larger house. In July, the Teichetel’s purchased the old Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity house, after the fraternity fell on financial hardship and had their charter revoked by the University. The 27,000-squarefoot former Greek house now functions as one of the largest Chabad houses in the nation. The purchase of the new, large house helped Chabad quickly adapt to social distancing guidelines, offering large indoor spaces where small groups of students could gather with ample distance between them. Large patios and outdoor space also came in handy, giving students space to socialize outdoors. Like Hillel, Chabad shifted the majority of its programs to an online or hybrid format. They began using the Safer Illinois app to check students in before entering the house, limited the number of students allowed in at a time, and required masks at all times. Finding a balance between mental health and physical health has been important for Dovid Teichtel, citing the increased mental health issues social distancinginduced isolation has brought on students. “As a Rabbi and director of students for 18 years on campus, I’ve never seen as

much anxiety and depression than I have during the past half a year,” Teichtel said. “You need to get people out of their dorms, out of their apartments, out of their houses. You cannot be in your room 24 hours a day. And even worse than that, some people are turning to substance abuse in order to relieve their anxieties. It’s terrible.” To combat rising mental health issues, Techitel has made it a focus of Illini Chabad to foster a sense of community as best as possible during a time where traditional communities have been disrupted. He converted one of the large rooms in the house into a study room, with ample distance between tables, so students could attend to their studies with the presence of other people. Weekly meetings and large events that would be emblematic of Illini Chabad prior to the coronavirus have been replaced with one-on-one meetings, coffee breaks and check-ins with students over the phone or on zoom. When community members have tested positive for COVID-19, Teichtel makes it a point to organize a contact-free chicken-soup delivery. “It might be physically distant, but we need to be emotionally close,” Teichtel said. “I have to say, from all my years on campus, this has actually been my busiest year in another way. It’s another kind of busy. It’s not busy in the way of throwing a barbecue every weekend for 300 students, it’s busy trying to create 300 experiences, individually on a smaller level. Don’t change the experience, change the way the experience is happening, that’s our motto at Chabad.”

While the stresses the pandemic and social distancing have brought on communities like Illini Chabad have been difficult, Teichtel finds joy in being able to use his skills to help those in the community who need help most. “This is what we’re here for, right, to help people,” Teichtel said. “This is why I came, this is what I signed up for. I’m generally a people person, so nothing gives me greater happiness than being able to help a person. I wish there wouldn’t be people struggling, but that’s the reality of the way the world is. There’s always going to be a struggle. If you’re looking at life, it’s not about me but the ways I can help the person I’m helping.”

pected cases that had travel related to it, but then there were others which did not have any travel at all,” Vais closely monitoring travel. said. “So at this time, you “I know that there were know, it’s not very clear if some cases that were sus- all the cases that are coming

in our travel-related or if the ones with the B117 variant have been circulating in the community for a while and we are just now identifying those cases.” The Pfizer and Moderna

vaccines have been determined to be effective in combating the B117 variant of COVID-19. “I think for people, it is important that even though the B117 variant is a major

concern for us, we do know that the vaccines are effective,” Vaid said. “And so if it is your turn to get the vaccine and the vaccine appointments are available, then you should get the

BY MONA ALRAZZAQ STAFF WRITER

The Illinois Student Government held the first town hall with University officials regarding hate speech versus free speech and discussed campus resources available for students and faculty who are subject to forms of hate speech on Feb. 23. This town panel followed two lawsuits filed against the University. One of these lawsuits dealt with student allegations that the University unfairly restricts student speech whereas the other dealt with allegations that the University failed to address a hostile environment of antiSemitism and anti-Zionism on campus. Enoma Egiebor, sophomore in AHS and chair of Campus Affairs for ISG organized the event along with Nicole Arnold, sophomore in LAS and chair of Diversity and Inclusion. Egiebor noted the “controversy in the past in terms of what you can say, when and where” and said that Arnold and she hoped to clarify it for students with this town hall meeting. “It’s in our rulebook essentially what we’re supposed to have a town hall that meets discussing the crossroads between hate speech and free speech, but it’s never been done so we decided to do it,” Egiebor said. Panelists tried to distinguish hate speech and free speech and thoroughly discussed the resources available for students who were subject to any type of verbal discrimination or harassment. Jason Mazzone, professor for Law, discussed how freedom of speech as guaranteed by the first amendment limits the government’s ability to regulate or restrict speech in any form that does not constitute a true threat, violence or incitement. Since the University is public, it is a state actor that is restricted by the first amendment in ways private entities are not. For example, the Uni-

FROM 1A

FAITH

social interaction while staying safe and distanced. “The key point here is that a lot of students who work to stay safe, don’t see people during the semester,” Cohen said. “By giving them an opportunity to get to come out and have a meal in the safest way that we can plan, we’re actually giving them something that’s really really important for their mental health while trying to be safe as possible considering the disease. If we can find a way that will be less risky for you to be around other people and break down the isolation a little bit, we might be able to have people stay safe longer.” Hillel began offering oneon-one appointments, either over Zoom or during a walk around campus (weather permitting) for students to work with Hillel leaders. Instead of evening programs, Hillel began to offer distanced craft nights where students would pick up packages of craft supplies from the Hillel building earlier in the day and log onto a Zoom meeting later in the day to work on the crafts individually, from their own rooms, but with the virtual presence of others. Friday night dinners were replaced with dinner-to-go and buffet lines became togo boxes. With spring slowly approaching and community positivity rates slowly decreasing, Hillel plans to convert its parking lot into an outdoor dining area to hold socially distant Friday-night dinners. Prior to COVID-19, a large portion of Hillel’s programming centered around food. Cohen explained that com-

FROM 1A

HOTSPOTS

BY ETHAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOGAN VAN NESS

Enoma Egiebor and Nicole Arnold are two ISG senators and chairpersons who organized the first town hall meeting regarding free speech versus hate speech.

monaa2@dailyillini.com

Out of the 1,640 total new doses administered, another 115 people received their first dose of the vaccine in Champaign County according to data updated by the Illinois Department of Public Health on Sunday. After Friday’s vaccinations, 48,964 residents — 23.3% of the Champaign County population — have received the first dose of the vaccine. The percentage of residents who have received their first dose is fourth highest of Illinois’ 102 counties. If measured against the county’s 172,760 vaccineeligible adults, 28.3% have received the first dose. The percentage of fully vaccinated county residents, now at 13.2%, ranks even better against other counties — second-highest behind Adams County’s 19.4% fully vaccinated rate. This week’s allocation of doses was mainly for administering second doses for previously vaccinated individuals. “We expect to have more first dose allocations next week and the week after, ” said the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District on

its website. “We are not currently setting up first dose clinics. Please keep an eye on our website and social media pages for information about when additional vaccines become available.”

Regional COVID-19 trends

The seven-day rolling test positivity rate for Region 6, the collection of 21 counties in east-central Illinois, has dropped to a new sevenmonth low. At 2.6%, it’s the lowest since July 18. Champaign’s rolling positivity rate, at 2.9%, is the lowest since Oct. 12. CUPHD confirmed 19 new cases of COVID-19 among county residents after 10,401 newly processed tests. Active cases in the county continue to decline. The number of people considered active for COVID-19 dropped by 39, to 369 cases countywide. A week prior, 556 residents were considered active for the virus. To date, 18,209 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Champaign County. Of them, 17,711 have recovered and 129 have died. @esimmsnews ecsimmon@dailyillini.com

RYAN ASH THE DAILY ILLINI

An Illinois student receives the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at the I-Hotel on Feb. 11. 23.3% of Champaign County has received the first dose of the vaccine.

“I became a tech guru and a video editor, and all these things that seminary never trained me for,” Cook said. “I know many of my colleagues have done the same just out of necessity because we wanted to continue to deliver programming and worship to our congregations.” Creating a space for both worship and community online has been a challenge for Cook, but there’s been a silver lining to shifting to an online format. Located in a college town, the younger portion of Saini Temple’s congregation tends to shift often. Cook said that with services and programming being held on the internet, former congregation members have been able to return, attending virtual services from across the country. Conversely, Cook believes new community members may have an easier time introducing themselves from the comfort of their own homes. “Zoom has broken down those barriers and allows people to return to us even though they’re geographically distant,” Cook said. “That’s been heartwarming and rewarding for many people to see their old friend showing up on the screen. In preCOVID times, coming into a new community and walking into a new building, there’s a certain amount of courage that it takes. Coming into a Zoom room, you don’t have to turn on your microphone if you don’t want to, you don’t have to turn on your camera if you don’t want to. There is a much lower barrier to socialization on Zoom than there is taking the risk and putting yourself out there in person.”

Prior to COVID-19, no week looked the same for Alan Cook, a Rabbi at Sinai Temple in Champaign. Some weeks, he’d visit community members in the hospital or attend funerals for the deceased. He’d spend his days preparing for weekly classes and worship services, and meeting with groups of congregation members for executive functions. Despite his busy schedule, there were two constants from week to week: Friday services, and a busy schedule. When COVID-19 forced students off-campus, Saini Temple closed its facilities to help prevent the spread of the virus. As with most other religious institutions, Cook and Saini Temple shifted to an online format to fulfill the community’s religious needs in a distanced manner. While there was a learning curve to setting up livestreams and recording worship videos, Cook developed a new skillset born out of necessity. mtroher2@dailyillini.com

vaccine because it will help slow down and even prevent B117.” gergova2@dailyillini.com

MONDAY March 1, 2021 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com

LIFE & CULTURE

University freshmen strive to make friends BY MACKENZIE STEPHENS STAFF WRITER

The lively atmosphere traditionally used to describe campus life has changed drastically over the past several months. With COVID-19’s social distancing restrictions, online classes and isolation, it feels as though the lives students once lived are in the past. Many students have struggled to make the most of their experience back on campus after having to acclimate to a new secluded lifestyle. Some miss walking to class in a fleet of chatty students, studying late in the Undergraduate Library surrounded by their friends or spending the weekend being adventurous. Freshmen, however, do not know the “college” experience beyond having everything held virtually. Their introduction to the University remained mostly within the walls of their dorms. Because of this, many students were left wondering how they would meet new people and make friends. Andrew O’Connell, freshman in LAS, said he remembers feeling wary about meeting new people his first year. “I had the impression that it would be difficult and that a lot of people, based on the virus and all that, would probably stay in their dorms,” O’Connell said. “I went in with the perception that it would definitely be more difficult than had the year been regular.” In normal years, O’Connell said he knew many students in dorms would typically leave their doors open and attend social events to meet

others. Yet, in his experience, many people tend to seclude themselves in fear of spreading or contracting COVID-19. Another aspect of university life that many incoming freshmen wish to experience is becoming involved in organizations or clubs that spark their interest. This year, Quad Day was held virtually and in a completely different format than in past years. Students read descriptions of the RSOs and joined zoom calls to speak with members of the clubs or organizations they found interesting. Meenah Harbaugh, freshman in Education, mentioned that she found many organizations via virtual Quad Day that have helped her make friends and feel connected to campus. “I’m in Best Buddies, Epsilon Delta, the Student Education Association and a sorority. All of those things have really helped me to meet new people and I’ve had a really great experience networking,” Harbaugh said. “I’ve met a bunch of different people who share my same major and have been able to talk with them over social media and in person.” Harbaugh emphasized the importance of becoming involved in order to avoid feeling disconnected from campus and other students. She advised finding as many organizations to become involved with as possible and reaching out to students with similar interests on social media. Although reaching out to others may seem scary, she said that it can lead to lasting friendships and helps to keep

Welcome to our RSO!

ANGELINA CHAN THE DAILY ILLINI

up with the social scene. Class and universityfocused Facebook groups have been another great way to find like-minded others and potential friends on social media. Many students join Facebook groups once they accept their offer to attend the University to share information about themselves and begin looking for roommates. Kira Matheson, freshman in LAS, said she had success with utilizing Facebook. “I did meet a lot of people

through the Facebook group. I found people who were in my major so I was in a group chat for that where I met people,” she said. “Then I met people that I did activities with in high school who were going to (the University). It was really about going through the feed, finding people who had things in common with me and reaching out to them.” Although freshmen have found ways to build friendships and branch out despite COVID-19 precautions,

there is not much left to do with friends on campus once they’re made. Students have expressed aggravation with being unable to find opportunities to hangout with friends, and about missing out on many events or traditions that typically come with campus-life. O’Connell said he felt as though he has missed out on a large part of college culture. Yet, O’Connell and many others have hope for normalcy in the future and are patiently

waiting for the day where they and their new friends can enjoy all aspects of the college experience. “During college football season we would be having tailgates, going to games and hanging out with people afterward. That was one part of the college experience that a lot of people value and cherish, and we were kind of robbed of that this year,” O’Connell said. mas24@dailyillini.com

Students, professors create art outside studio BY LILY DOLAN STAFF WRITER

Students in art classes at the University represent a key group overlooked with classes becoming virtual. Considering the physical nature of art, students and faculty encountered a lot of difficulty in making art classes fully online. Professors worked to keep things accommodating, and although students recognize this fact, a lot of them feel their classes would be better if in person. Professors also recognize the importance of in-person art classes. Sydney Vize, graduate student instructor of ART 104, a book-binding sculpture class, explained that there is community learning that comes from being in a physical art studio. “The big challenge with virtual art is seeing and understanding people’s work,” she said. “Seeing and understanding how a piece of art functions from far away versus having people walk around it and look closely and look far away and kind

of interact with the objects like holding it touching it, if we are talking about books as well as the tactile is so important.” Fides Icalina, senior in FAA, said she understands the experience of fine art versus graphic design classes to be very different. Her digitalart-based classes were not as tough of a transition into online learning as were the fine art studio lab courses. She said in Spring 2020, “I was in pottery class and then before everybody got sent home there was nothing we could do because no one had the pottery materials, so we ended up writing a paper for the rest of the semester.” Fides said she empathized with the concerns of professors, even if she had opinions for areas that can improve. Another issue for students who are taking studio-based fine arts classes is the need for supplies. Fides found that the professors need to rely on old artistic practices that are more accessible for students versus implementing tech-

JULIA EVERSMANN THE DAILY ILLINI

niques that require large, She explained, “For one bulky supplies that students class, my teacher came up don’t have access to from with a lot of creative solutheir homes. tions, like more rudimenta-

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ry and old-fashioned printLuckily, many professors making techniques, like ink have found ways to keep on paper, but it wasn’t the same.” SEE ART | 5A

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Monday, March 1, 2021

New RSO adds magical flair to campus BY MATT TROHER STAFF WRITER

Carlos Martinez, sophomore in ACES, opened a fresh deck of cards. His Zoom camera was positioned at an overhead angle, so the viewer could clearly see his hands and cards. He separated the four kings from the deck and asked his audience to name a card. “Seven of hearts,” said one viewer. Working alone, Martinez dubbed the four kings his “assistants” and told the viewer that his assistants will find the card. After a quick shuffle of the deck, he showed the viewer all four kings face-up, then turned three of them face-down, leaving the king of hearts face-up, and puts the kings off to the side. With a flair of showmanship, Martinez fanned out the deck of cards. All the cards faced down, with the exception of the seven of hearts. The trick was not over, however. While talking to the viewer, he went to flip over the three facedown kings the viewer saw moments ago. The three kings had turned into the three remaining sevens. “How’d you do it?” said one viewer. “I can’t tell you, or the Illini Magic Society will terminate me from the group,” Martinez said. Martinez is vice-president and one of the founding members of the Illini Magic Society, an RSO for magicians interested in tricks and illusions to socialize and work off each other to better their craft. When Martinez was in high school, he learned magic as a way to break the ice after joining the speech team. He was the only junior on the team and thought performing magic would lighten the atmosphere. When one girl on the team knew all the tricks Martinez performed and revealed how the tricks were done, he decided to one-up her and

FROM 4A

ART

the class material engaging despite being virtual. Professor Stacey Robinson of graphic design shifted his classes to reflect social issues and connect them to art. This emphasis was to relate the current events

REBECCA ORIZA THE DAILY ILLINI

use Thanksgiving break to learn more advanced tricks. “By the time I got back to school to show her, I didn’t want to stop learning,” Martinez said. During Martinez’s freshman year at Illinois, he was shocked to find out there were no magic-related RSOs. Martinez asked around in different class group chats if anyone would be interested in an RSO, and by the spring of his freshman year, a small group of magicians would meet at the Illini Union to socialize and share tricks they’ve been working on. This semester is the Illini Magic Society’s first semester as a fully-registered RSO. At each meeting, magicians in the group

share tricks with each other, practice performance skills and occasionally learn from a guest speaker. Meetings are casual, and members are encouraged to share what they’ve been working on in a supportive, constructive environment. Michael Madiol, sophomore in Engineering, is one of the Illini Magic Society’s co-founders. Madiol said he believes magic is a performance art built around social interaction. Meeting with other people who share the same passion for magic allows Madiol to hone in on his performance skills. “What I look for in magic performance is taking the focus away from it being a magic performance, and

focusing it on it being more of a social interaction — just talking with someone,” Madiol said. “The magic trick is just a way to convey what you’re saying. I guess you could call it crowd control, just being able to talk with the people you meet and have an enjoyable interaction with them and making them excited through performing a magic trick.” Performing magic over Zoom has been a challenge for the Illini Magic Society, especially those who were used to practicing tricks and illusions to be seen from all angles. Performing in front of a singular camera isn’t the same. Martinez, familiar with practicing in front of a movable mirror and

performing in front of an audience, cites the lack of audience interaction as a challenge. “One problem we’ve faced (on Zoom) is that we can’t really rely on (the audience’s) reactions anymore,” Martinez said. “Because I have my laptop above me, I can’t see (the audience’s) faces anymore. It’s not as motivating to do magic through Zoom, unless you have the proper equipment and you can hear and see the other person’s reaction.” As a relatively new RSO, the Illini Magic Society is looking to grow its membership. Their last Zoom meeting had seven attendees, and a discord channel created by the group has

garnered 20 participants. Martinez said he hopes the group continues to grow in the future, and serves as a welcoming environment for anyone interested in magic, card juggling or illusions of any kind. “I’ve met quite a few people who are interested in relearning magic, because they learned magic when they were younger but they stopped when they got to high school,” Martinez said. “They would retain some tricks but forget most of it as the years go by. We’re hoping that we could continue to inspire the kid inside them so they would continue to learn magic.”

and issues in focus for students. “I’m teaching my students to build their content ideas in a virtual environment. The second project they have to do is around the ideas of diversity and inclusion for our campus and the School of Art + Design,” he said.

Instructor Vize had never taught the sculpture bookbinding course before this semester, so it was built to be virtual. She explained that there was a necessary learning curve for all art instructors as they had to make sure classes were inclusive for all students. “The synchronous dem-

onstrations over Zoom have actually been working really well mostly because of the scale of bookbinding,” Vize said. “The dry medium for the most part is paper, and the messiest thing we use is glue.” In transforming the ideas and purpose of his course, Professor Robin-

son was excited to try out new ideas and processes for virtual learning, as he had wanted to teach a virtual art class for years. Since coming back from his art residency at Harvard, Robinson has begun to understand that professors need to get creative with bookbinding students.

“I can kind of help my students in a way that becomes more personal because of the virtual environment because it has to be, ” he said. “You have the barrier of the screen so to encourage students, you have to be more personable.”

IF THEY CAN DO IT,

SO CAN YOU!

WEAR a MASK THE

DAILY ILLINI

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NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD ACROSS

1 Modern Persia 5 Arnaz who loved Lucy 9 Become acclimated 14 “Finding ___” (2003 Pixar film) 15 Alternative to a wood, in golf 16 Name said twice before “Wherefore art thou” 17 In vogue 18 Oscar the Grouch’s home 20 International Court of Justice location, with “The” 22 Bulls in a bullfight 23 Old weapon in handto-hand combat 26 Place for a nest 30 Digital picture, maybe 31 Less fresh 33 Emergency call in Morse code 36 Wild guess 39 With 60-Across, one of two U.S. vice presidents to resign from office 40 Result of a football blitz, maybe 44 Completely anesthetized 45 Exercise that might be done on a mat 46 Cover gray, perhaps 47 Like vinegar 49 “Holy moly!” 52 English channel, informally, with “the” 53 Bit of fashionable footwear 58 Home in the shape of a dome 60 See 39-Across 62 Dreaded cry from a boss … or a hint to the ends of 18-, 23-, 40- and 53-Across 67 Listing in a travel guide 68 Texas ___ (school NW of Houston) 69 Dealer in futures?

25 31

36 41

32 39

53 58

22 24

30 33

9 16

21 23

46 49

57 61

PUZZLE BY KEVIN CHRISTIAN AND ANDREA CARLA MICHAELS

70 It’s a plot! 71 News media 72 Rival of Harvard 73 Wood for boat decks

DOWN

1 Not give an ___ (be stubborn) 2 Give a makeover, informally 3 Spanish girlfriend 4 “Hey, don’t jump in front of me in the line!” 5 Insult 6 Time span sometimes named after a president 7 Rather, informally 8 Where work may pile up 9 Best Picture winner set in 1-Across 10 Swims at the Y, say 11 “The Walking Dead” network

12 Cause of a sleepless night for a princess, in a fairy tale 13 Whole bunch 19 Greek counterpart of Mars 21 Yadda, yadda, yadda 24 Zap with a light beam 25 Contest attempt 27 Classic work that’s the basis for Shakespeare’s “Troilus and Cressida” 28 “Goodness gracious!” 29 Not having two nickels to rub together 32 “For shame!” 33 Fledgling pigeon 34 Weight whose abbreviation ends in a “z,” oddly 35 “Sexy” lady in a Beatles song

37 Blood grouping system 38 Hole-some breakfast food? 41 Nickname for the Cardinals, with “the” 42 Prefix with -pod or -partite 43 Zoo enclosure 48 Foal : mare :: ___ : cow 50 Lawyers’ org. 51 Took care of someone else’s pooch 54 Loud 55 Land with a demilitarized zone 56 Delayed 57 Four: Prefix 59 Insets in a crown 61 Line on a calendar 62 Talk, talk, talk 63 Regatta implement 64 French “a” 65 Wriggly fish 66 Dr. of hip-hop

The crossword solution is in the Classified section.

MONDAY March 1, 2021 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com

OPINIONS Facebook unfriends its regulatory fate

appalling decline in not only local journalism, but as well as newsrooms across the COLUMNIST world and U.S. It must be recognized that Facebook holds the right acebook has launched its to base decisions off of ecofirst strike in its war over nomic self-interest — espeaccountability. cially as, at the end of the In response to recent day, Facebook remains a priAustralian legislation oblig- vate venture pursuing profit. ing Facebook to pay pubHowever, the question lishers for using their news remains over the ethics of stories, Facebook preposFacebook’s profiteering. A terously executed a plan company constructing bilto block the sharing of any lions in revenue can assurdomestic or foreign news edly reward those who aided articles for Australians. in cementing the foundation Currently, whether one of Facebook’s lucrative sharis even a resident of Austra- ing model. lia or not, the sharing of any Nevertheless, Facebook Australian news publicacan conclusively elect itself tions — including The Austo dash away from paying tralian, The Sydney Mornnews publications — a move ing Herald and The Daily its counterpart, Google, conTelegraph — are restricted ceded to down under. on the colossal social media Despite fair justifications KAITLIN MIKRUT THE DAILY ILLINI platform. by each party, this plight This unprecedented move between Australia and Facearrives on the cusp of Facebook becomes even graybook — and its despot, CEO er as one considers the two Mark Zuckerberg — awaitspearheads centered in this ing swift legal action amidst dogfight: Mark Zuckerberg, pending regulators across and conservative media the globe. magnate Rupert Murdoch never be a greater quarate sports fans. If a fan’s The current race to the Ironically, one might (of Fox News fame here in terback than Dan Marifavorite team is home to title of GOAT in the socreason to keep their comthe U.S.). NICK JOHNSON a player skilled enough to cer world is unlike any pany on a lower profile Similarly, other critics SENIOR COLUMNIST no or Joe Montana than appreciate the fact that be included in conversaseen before. Messi and while undergoing legal pro- contest that bills, such as 43-year-old Tom Brady tions of all-time greatRonaldo are within 28 ceedings, yet in ZuckerAustralia’s, chiefly benefit just won his seventh ness, they will rightclub goals of the tally Pelé berg’s mindset, Facebook legacy media and prevent he “GOAT” — the Super Bowl. fully feel strongly about posted at the end of his is attempting to burn the media outlets from further greatest of all time. An example familiar defending their player. storied career and both of system down in lieu of proinnovating and adapting This term finds itself to every Illinoisan is the However, there is a line them are currently leading viding any constructive to the modernized martossed around quite freGOAT debate in the game to be drawn between sup- their respective top-flight reforms. ketplace. Likewise, this is a quently in conversation of basketball between porting one side of an leagues in goals scored, Quoted in the Assocated potentially net benefit for circles, yet its gravity Michael Jordan and LeB- argument and defending showing absolutely no Press, Syracuse University society which may no lonnever seems to be effecron James. Plenty may a stance with such hostil- signs of slowing. professor and social media ger rely on social media webtively transmitted in pro- sensibly argue that LeBity that greatness is effecHowever, once again, expert, Jennifer Grygiel sites as their primary source portion to how often it is ron will never reach the tively ignored. rather than appreciating asserted, “Zuckerberg’s flex of information. uttered. Saying someone echelon of greatness in Perhaps the most poithe incomparably historic here shows how he can disStill, no company — is the greatest to ever do which Jordan resides gnant example to ever careers these two legend- rupt global access to the both media or tech-relatthe thing they are doing with his six championship plague the sports world is ary attacking forwards news in a heartbeat.” ed — should ever hold the is a supremely potent rings and flawless NBA the greatest-of-all-time are simultaneously havMoreover, Grygiel linked potential to withdraw one’s declaration. Finals record, but too debate between uber-tal- ing — a privilege the world this powerplay by Zuckeraccess to information at a In making such a procmany will let their opinented futbolistas Lionel is unlikely to ever witness berg as a testimony to the moment’s notice if it was lamation, one is holding a ion morph into an antipa- Messi and Cristiano Ron- again — overly-staunch monstrous power Big Tech previously disposed of at libsingular individual above thy toward James. aldo. Apart from these fans of each player would CEOs, namely Zuckerberg, erty. With Facebook dealeveryone to come before In allowing their infatu- two perennial stars, one still rather diminish the hold in this era where a ing this blow to Australians, this individual in their ation with Jordan to gername typically comes to accomplishments of the select few have the capacthe pattern is commencing respected field. To identify minate into a hatred for mind in the conversaother to prove a point. ity to encourage or supof nations threatening Big one person as definitiveJames, this overly protion of the greatest soccer GOAT debates are fun press any published piece of Tech to pay its fair share, Big ly superior over the rest MJ crowd does not allow player ever — Pelé. and, arguably, even necinformation. Tech refusing and sharing in a certain category is an themselves to enjoy James Edson Arantes do Nasessary. By design, debatIn addition, this seismic “with a heavy heart” that incredibly difficult task, breaking the 35,000 point cimento, more commonly ing greatness is meant to slap by Facebook appears “changes” will immediately which consequently leads barrier and being the known as Pelé, is the Brahighlight the different to have already actually be implemented. to many debates about frontrunner for league zilian-born fútbol phenom skills and accomplishbackfired as the AustraPM Morrison characterwho is the proper GOAT of MVP in his 18th season. who is hailed by many as ments of a craft’s most lian Prime Minister — Scott ized this attempted infortheir realm. It’s hard to imagine some- the greatest to ever set foot revered artisans and in Morison — remains steadmational hostage situation Sadly, these debates one holding so steadfastly on the pitch. Renowned turn, augment apprefast in his determination to aptly in articulating, “big almost always lead peoto an opinion they cannot as a World Cup legend and ciation for what they’ve hold Big Tech accountable. tech companies might be ple to get so caught up in even entertain the idea of a prolific goalscorer, Pelé done — but appreciation Other nations, like Canada, changing the world but this their arguments for who appreciating such historwon 28 titles across all is rarely the product of have also risen to the occadid not mean they should they believe is the greatic feats. competitions and scored these conversations. sion in targeting Facebook run it.” est that their ability to Unfortunately, one 683 club goals throughout One must be careful to pay news publishers. A question of worth arises appreciate greatness right need not imagine — there his career. to engage in such disCrucial government agen- with Facebook shunning in front of them is signifi- are troves of people who Lionel Messi has won cussions with the goal of cies were also swept into any attempt to reward jourcantly hampered. presently suffer from 35 titles across all comappreciation rather than Facebook’s flustered filter nalists and news organizaThis phenomenon is this opinion-driven, selfpetitions and Cristiano winning an argument, and were suppressed for the tions. Will Facebook recmost present in the realm inflicted ailment. Ronaldo has garnered 33. lest they miss greatness time being while Facebook ognize the inherent worth of sports. Most recentIt should be noted Messi has scored 655 club right before their eyes. rushed this mass-banning journalistic enterprises ly, the football world was that underscoring this goals and Ronaldo has of news into its disruptive provide in this democratic reminded once again that harmful attitude within netted a whopping 663 Nick is a sophomore in LAS. algorithm before the law’s world, or will profits reign a plethora of fans would greatness debates is not — and both of them are nmj5@dailyillini.com final passage. supreme and incentivize rather continue to resosynonymously a sweepstill in the primes of their All eyes currently remain Facebook further to shunt lutely rant that there will ing critique of passioncareers. on Australia as they repcompensating journalresent the first endeavor ists for their worthwhile to hold Big Tech accountwonders? able. But soon, action will In the ethical sense, be required in the United Facebook must loosen States — an effort House their coffers and compenAntitrust Subcommittee sate those who aided in ard Pryor, Melissa McCar- especially across cenwould suffice. Chairman David Ciclline is formulating the platform NOAH NELSON thy and Jim and John tral Illinois, there is some Other states have their profoundly observing. to the social network it is SENIOR COLUMNIST Belushi. But one man, plaque or location commost well-known citizens The U.S. may remain a today. who appears all over the memorating Lincoln’s too: George Washington in great distance from any Yet now, Facebook state in some form or fash- time to that particular Virginia, Mark Twain in effective operations against appears poised to return ince joining the ion, takes the reins as the town. Whether he gave a Missouri, Dolly Parton in Facebook, but Facebook’s news to Australians folUnion in 1818, Illi- state’s most notable citistump speech or worked Tennessee and Elvis Pres- present posture cannot go lowing minor concessions nois has grown zen: Abraham Lincoln. on a law case, most Illinois ley in Mississippi. It’s safe unwarranted as it attempts granted by the Australian into one of the most fasWith the state moniker towns have Lincoln’s life to say many of those states’ in Australia to forge precgovernment: an incomcinating states in the “The Land of Lincoln,” the well documented. It’s sur- populations don’t know edent — however ineffective ing compromise between country. nation’s sixteenth presiprising that not a single about their most popular its tantrum. both parties, yet an inept Mostly known for Chident is one of the most one of them has something citizens either. Preceding Facebook’s bargain over just paycago, Illinois offers so important figures of Illidocumenting a bathroom Whether you are in the Australian acrimony, ments for work anticipatmuch more to its citinois and American hisbreak or a drink after a Windy City, downstate Google, combined with ing restitution. zens and visitors outside tory. With that, every Illi- long day on the judicial Cairo, Danville, Quincy or Facebook, lingered as the Facebook has every prethe nation’s third-largest nois citizen must know circuit. anywhere in between, you primary Australian targets vailing right to pursue its city. Popular state histori- about Lincoln’s life in Nevertheless, it’s also must know who Lincoln with the government’s land- own financial interests in cal sites include the first some way. surprising and quite was. He’s one of the most mark legislation: the News the face of chasing profMcDonald’s restaurant To Illinoisians who shocking to discover prominent figures to ever Media and Digital Platits. Nonetheless, society’s in Des Plaines, the birthknow more about Lincountless Illinoisians walk the planet and Illinois forms Mandatory Bargainresponsibility therein place of Raggedy Ann and coln than the average per- don’t know much about is proud to call him its son. ing Code. requires a self-reflection of Andy in Arcola, Shawnee son and those who don’t Lincoln’s life besides the Illinois residents should In advance of this mamwhat it enjoys in the marNational Forest in Southknow much about him fact that he served as pres- appreciate Lincoln and moth measure, Amanda ketplace: platforms sharern Illinois and the Super- at all, Illinois is a great ident during the Civil War. know more about him. He’s Meade of The Guardian not- ing all for all or rigid parman statue in downstate place to start learning Quite honestly, it’s a little in large part why Illinois is ed, “for every $100 of online ticipation in platforms at Metropolis. about “Honest Abe.” There sad. Why would anyone a great state to visit and an advertising spend, $53 goes the behest of the authoritaIllinois is also known for are popular sites like his not want to learn more even better place to live. to Google, $28 to Facebook tive few. its famous residents too, home, law office, tomb and about the life of Illinois’s and $19 to everyone else.” like Roger Ebert, Miles presidential museum in greatest citizen? You don’t Noah is a junior in the This complete apathy of Nathaniel is a sophomore in Davis, John Deere, Walt Springfield. have to learn every detail, College of Media. recognizing journalism’s LAS. Disney, Betty Ford, RichEven in small towns, but a good basic outline noahen2@dailyillini.com worth further chronicles the ntl3@dailyillini.com NATHANIEL LANGLEY

Idolatry distracts from greatness T

Every Illinois citizen must know about Lincoln

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.

SPORTS

MONDAY March 1, 2021 The Daily Illini DailyIllini.com

MEN’S BASKETBALL

COCKBURN, CURBELO DOMINATE IN WIN BY BRANDON SIMBERG STAFF WRITER

Even without its star guard, Illinois was able to beat Wisconsin behind stout defense. The Illini held a double-digit lead for a large part of the second half before D’Mitrik Trice got insanely hot at the end keeping the Badgers in it. Ultimately, Illinois made enough free throws down the stretch to hold off the Badgers. Let’s take a look at eight Illini performances from the win.

KOFI COCKBURN There isn’t much more to say about Cockburn at this p oi nt . He turned in another AllBig Ten performance, going for 19 points on over 50% shooting. Free throws were again

an issue, making just five of his 11 attempts. Defensively, Cockburn was rock solid. Micah Potter and Nate Reuvers combined for 21 points on 8-22 shooting. Cockburn was held under his average, but considering the defensive attention he received, it was a quality performance.

A-

DA’MONTE WILLIAMS Willia ms got off to a hot start, scoring five of Illinois’ first seven points. He finished with 12, including a key secondhalf three and long two, which was Illinois’ last field goal of the game. He also snagged four rebounds and dished out four assists, his third highest total in Big Ten play. He played terrific defense on the bigger Aleem Ford, holding him to 1-7 shooting from the field.

I docked Williams down a notch because of a technica l foul he received late while argui n g with a Wisconsin coach. It was a double technical, but as a senior, Williams has to be smarter in that situation. He admitted as much post game. Still, a very quality performance for the senior.

B+

ANDRE CURBELO Illinois fans got the full Curbelo experience on Saturday. The Badgers dared him to score, and he did, getting to the rim consistently for 17 points, his most in conference play this season. The big negative was one assist and six turnovers, but I think you have to live with that with the load he was tasked with. He also grabbed seven rebounds.

B+

TRENT FRAZIER Frazier didn’t have his best shooting day from the field, nor was he on his mark defensively, as D’mitrik Trice went off in the second half. But Frazier’s clutch

free throws, including four consecutive late in the second half, helped propel Illinois to the win. He also grinded out 39 minutes, a season-high.

GIORG I BEZHANISHVILI JACOB GRANDISON Another player with a quiet scoring day, Grandison shot just 1-4, but he led the Illini in rebounds with eight, which was key against the veteran Badgers. Defensively, he chased the Badgers off the three-

point line, a key reason he finished with a team-best +17 plus/minus. Grandison’s numbers don’t stand out from the box score, but the plus/ minus shows his true impact.

ADAM MILLER Miller had a quiet scoring game, but he made his impact felt in different ways. He finished with just six points, tak-

C+

ing three shots, but he grabbed five rebounds. He also had a steal and finished with a -5 plus/ minus

The Rustavi, Georgia native had his full display of touch on Saturday, scoring seven points on 3-4 shooting. The rebounding

was a concern, as he had just one in 16 minutes, but he was strong on defense and finished with a positive plus/ minus.

COLEMAN HAWKINS Hawkins had a really nice rotation for a block and a good drop off to Bezhanishvili for an assist. From there, it was all downhill. He had back-to-back turnovers before being subbed out. When he came back in

C-

later, a lane violation cost his team a point, which could have been detrimental in a close game. @BrandonSimberg simberg2@dailyillini. com

VOLLEYBALL

Freshman Raina Terry acts as beacon for struggling Illini BY WES HOLLENBERG STAFF WRITER

The 2021 season may prove to be one of the most difficult years in history to be a true freshman in college volleyball. When COVID-19 hit last year, practices that typically helped freshmen prepare for college competition were cut off, and players were forced to isolate, removing both physical preparation and the ability to build connections with teammates. Freshman outside hitter Raina Terry had it worse than most, suffering from a bad case of mono in December on top of the pandemicrelated challenges. In spite of it all, she’s worked her way up to being one of the most dominant players on Illinois’ roster — and she’s still getting better every match. In her past four matches alone, she’s set four consecutive career highs in kills, registering 8, 13, 14 and 19 kills, respectively. She’s done it incredibly efficiently, hitting .283 in her most recent career-best game of 19 kills against Ohio State. Despite her eye-popping numbers, Terry thinks she isn’t even operating at

PHOTO COURTESY OF FIGHTING ILLINI ATHLETICSI

Outside hitter Raina Terry hits the ball against Ohio State on Feb. 19, 2020 at Huff Hall. After overcoming mono in December, Terry has been a valuable player to SEE RAINA | 3B the struggling Illini.

2B Monday, March 1, 2021

THE DAILY ILLINI | WWW.DAILYILLINI.COM

MEN’S BASKETBALL

CAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI

Freshman Adam Miller shoots a free throw during a game against Nebraska on Thursday at State Farm Center. Miller became the primary scorer after Ayo Dosunmu was benched for facial injuries.

Adam Miller fills familiar role as primary scorer BY BRANDON SIMBERG STAFF WRITER

With Ayo Dosunmu out of the lineup on Thursday, freshman guard Adam Miller knew it was his time to shine. Against Nebraska, Miller showed why he was one of the top scorers in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League, the premier Amateur Athletic Union league, exploding for 16 first-half points. The four-star freshman stepped into the role of the scoring off-ball guard, using a display of midrange jumpers, acrobatic finishes and threes. For Illini fans, this outburst may have come out of nowhere, but Miller is used to filling Dosunmu’s shoes. At Morgan Park High School, Dosunmu and

Miller were once teammates. Dosunmu, senior at the time, commanded the role as the primary scoring option, while Miller was the number two. At the Big Dipper holiday tournament, Dosunmu was out with an ankle injury, so like he did Thursday night, Miller became the main scoring guard. He led Morgan Park to a tournament victory, scoring over 25 points per game on the way to winning tournament MVP. “My coaches told me to step up, and I stepped up,” Miller said. “I’m gonna always do my role ... I just felt comfortable. A little bit more shots here and there, a little more touches, a little more looks. I was just feeling good.” For the Peoria native

turned Chicago high school playing 16 minutes or takstar, his role has been much ing a season-high 15 shots different than any oth- as he did on Thursday, his er time in his basketball mental state stays the same. career. The “I realonce proly have “My coaches told lific Illithe same nois High mindset me to step up, and I School most of Associathe time,” stepped up. I’m gonna tion scorM i l ler er has sa id. “I always do my role.” become always ADAM MILLER somewhat feel like FRESHMAN GUARD of a fourth at tackoption ing. It ’s behind just going Dosunmu, Kofi Cockburn out there and doing it. I and Trent Frazier. He’s been feel like now that he’s out, confined to just eight shots okay, I really gotta do it now. per game, likely the low- I don’t want to say that I sat est of his basketball career. back; it’s just another level.” Two nights prior, Miller When Miller first comregistered a season-low 16 mitted and signed to the minutes on 0-3 shooting. University of Illinois, that But whether Miller is was the role he was expect-

ed to play. Dosunmu had his name in the NBA draft and was “99.9%” committed to making that leap. But in late July, he announced his return, unintentionally diminishing Miller’s role. Is Miller angry at all about that decision? Not in the slightest. Though the Nebraska game was a glimpse of what this season could have been for him, he’s grateful to have his former teammate on the court with him. Even after Dosunmu returned, Miller never once wavered on the Illini. “I came to play for the school,” Miller said. “To have him here, it really has helped me. My production might not be as much, but we are winning and learning so much in the process.

He’s been in those shoes.” With Dosunmu out against Wisconsin, Illinois needed Miller to continue to fill the role of the scoring guard. After Dosunmu returned from injury his senior season at Morgan Park, he and Miller teamed up to lead the Mustangs to the IHSA 3A championship. This opportunity for the freshman is not only a preview of what the next season could look like, but it could also unlock him for the final push, as Illinois looks to have the same end result as the Dosunmu/ Miller Mustangs once did. “I was always a winner,” Miller said. “I came here to win.” @BrandonSimberg simberg2@dailyillini.com

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Monday, March 1, 2021

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CAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI

Junior Ayo Dosunmu sits out during the game against Nebraska on Thursday due to a facial injury sustained at Michigan State. Dosunmu is a contender for Big Ten Player of the Year.

Multiple teams linger on bubble watch Big Ten Player of the Year award remains undecided in final week BY GABBY HAJDUK SPORTS EDITOR

The Big Ten men’s basketball regular season is just a week away from wrapping up. As of now, Michigan will bring the conference trophy back to Ann Arbor, as they sit atop the Big Ten at 13-1 while Illinois trails behind at 14-4. Some of the best matchups are yet to come, however, as No. 3 Michigan hosts No. 5 Illinois Tuesday, Michigan State travels to Michigan Thursday, No. 4 Ohio State host Illinois Saturday and No. 9 Iowa hosts No. 23 Wisconsin Sunday. With so many games with major Big Ten and national tournament seeding implications left to play, it’s hard to tell how the conference

will shake out in the final weeks of college basketball. In the meantime, let’s take a dive into two of the biggest questions in the conference right now.

Should teams like Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan State and Maryland make the NCAA tournament?

Any person who follows college basketball to the slightest extent knows the saying, “the Big Ten is just so deep.” While that statement may be overused and exaggerated at times, the conference is full of good competition. But does that mean the middle-of-theconference teams should be more strongly considered for March Madness qualification? Right now Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan State and Maryland are all considered bubble teams for the NCAA tournament. While each program has a losing conference record — ranging from one game to six games — each team has an overall record of .500 or above. Over the weekend, it seemed like Indiana and Minnesota each lost their chances at the tournament.

The Golden Gophers lost tournament. The Terrapins at Nebraska — the worst have won four straight, but team in the Big Ten — on all against mid-tier teams. Saturday, extending their If they can win out in the five-game losing streak. final three games, that This also included a loss would also put them in the to Northwestern, anoth- tournament. er conference botCan Ayo still tom-feeder. win Big Ten W hile the Player of the What makes Dosunmu Hoosiers Year? had a hot The Illiso special is the ice streak a few n i ’s star weeks back, in his veins. He rarely, player has beating missed the if ever, lets a win slip team’s last Iowa twice, t hey a re games away from his team. two on a threea g a i n s t game losNebraska ing streak, and Wisconm o s t sin due to an recently falling to Michi- injury suffered at Michigan gan Saturday. As of now, State last Tuesday. While both mid-tier programs Illinois has faired well shouldn’t make March without Ayo Dosunmu, it Madness. would be a major upgrade Michigan State and to have him back for MichMaryland, however, are igan and Ohio State, two each making late-season of the best teams in the pushes. After losing four country. straight games midseaWith Dosunmu makson, Tom Izzo’s Spartans ing a strong case for Big have beaten two top-five Ten Player of the Year teams in Illinois and Ohio over Iowa’s Luka Garza, State over the past week, I wonder how much his but they still have to play two or more absences will Michigan twice in the final hinder his chances of the week. If they can split the award. Right now, I would series, they will make the say Dosunmu deserves it

more than Garza. While the Hawkeyes center averages more points (24.3) compared to Dosunmu’s 21 points per game, the Illini junior is arguably the most complete player in college basketball, as he averages 6.3 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. The star guard has also recorded two triple-doubles this season. What makes Dosunmu so special is the ice in his veins. He rarely, if ever, lets a win slip away from his team and commands one of the best offenses in the Big Ten. While Garza can also take over a game and is the center of Iowa’s offense, he isn’t really tasked with the high-pressure situations and isn’t always the deciding factor in wins. W hile Dosunmu has missed some time with the facial injury, I still think he has done more than enough to prove his worth to everyone in college basketball, and the two games shouldn’t play a role in the Player of the Year decision. @gabby_h11 ghajduk2@dailyillini.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE MULHOLLAND

Iowa center Luka Garza goes up for a shot against Michigan guard Franz Wagner in the first half of their Big Ten basketball game at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor on Thursday.

100%. “I think I still have a lot more work to do to get back to where I was before, but I’m definitely getting there,” Terry said. “It’s going by a lot faster than I thought it would, and that’s thanks to my coaching staff for believing in me, and my strength coach for believing in me and pushing me in the weight room to get back to where I was before too, so props to them. (I’m) slowly working my way back up.” Recovering from mono has been one factor among many that led to a slow start to Terry’s season and her subsequent ascension. She’s also needed to adjust to an expanded role due to Ellie Holzman’s injury, along with changing her game to suit the college level as a whole. “I came from a really high-level club, so I think I came in prepared for the intensity (of practice), but Big Ten play is obviously really competitive and that was a curveball,” Terry said. “Obviously with Ellie going down, I had to take a six-rotation role. That was a lot of pressure at first, (I’m) not going to lie. I leaned a lot on my teammates and especially my coaches.” As far as Big Ten play goes, Terry has cited adjusting to the size of players being something she’s had to work on. In high school, standing at 6-foot-1 was considered tall compared to her competition, allowing Terry to be very physical at the net. In Big Ten play, standing at 6-foot-1 means a lot less when routinely facing teams like Wisconsin that have 6-foot-8 middle blockers. Now as a small fish in a big pond rather than vice versa, Terry has had to modify many of her hitting motions to get around larger opposing players. “Especially for a freshman, she has a really good idea of when to fully swing or when to just keep the ball in play, which is something you might not always see,” said senior setter Kylie Bruder. “I think she’s been doing a really great job on the outside. It’s not an easy thing to do, come in as a freshman and start on the outside. I think she’s done a great job coming into that role.” While Terry has spent a lot of time overcoming physical challenges, she’s also dealt with mental tests. While still working herself back to full strength after having mono, Terry was thrust into the spotlight when Holzman tore her ACL. Taking up the sixrotation role came with a lot of pressure, Terry says, but she has worked to make the pressure work for her rather than against her. “I’ve heard people say that when you stop being nervous, you should probably stop playing,” Terry said. “I think there’s always going to be nerves, but definitely the good kind of nerves now. I’m not playing safe anymore. I’m definitely going after things. There are definitely still nerves, just the good kind.” Terry’s transformation from a back-of-the-rotation freshman to an everyday player with star potential couldn’t have come soon enough for the struggling Illini. Currently, they sit at a paltry 2-6 and are on a six-game losing streak, the longest of head coach Chris Tamas’ tenure at Illinois. If Terry can show consistency with her recent strides, the Illini may have a chance to turn their season around. Regardless, Terry is showing potential to be a building block in an Illinois program searching for a new identity after the graduation of most of its players from the 2018 Final Four team. Next season, Illinois has the potential to form a scary pin hitter tandem between Terry and Holzman if the latter can come back healthy. @WesHollenberg wih2@dailyillini.com

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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.

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The front cover of the video game “The Zodiac is Speaking” is pictured above. The game was released May 14.

Game sparks interest in Zodiac case BY AIDAN FINN STAFF WRITER

There are more than enough overrated Netflix crime documentaries out there. Titles like “Evil Genius” truly exemplify a dive into true crime, whereas “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness” does not. However, both titles sit on top of piles of VHS copies of “Unsolved Mysteries” and DVR-recordings of “Dateline NBC.” Simply put, there is enough true crime comfort food media to ride out another century or so. But what about video games? It seems to be a non-existent genre, with the closest being games romanticizing the tale of Jack the Ripper. However, Polish-based developer Punch Punk Games seem to have broken such a mold with their latest title, “This is the Zodiac Speaking.” “This is the Zodiac Speaking” is a first-person noir thriller game based on the story of the unsolved crime cases of the Zodiac Killer. It combines stealth mechanics with investigative storytelling, all amidst a very gloomy mood and dark atmosphere. The core gameplay loop revolves around the player following the trail of evidence left by the elusive serial killer while simultaneously avoiding confrontation by hiding from him. This combination of traditional horror gameplay with an element of detective work

creates a nerve-wracking experience where you search for the Zodiac while solving elaborate puzzles. But it’s not just me who’s here to discuss this title. I have had the pleasure of interviewing Krzysiek Grudziński, the director of “This is the Zodiac Speaking,” who is based in Warsaw, Poland. I asked him about his experience making the title, what he aimed to bring with it and any advice he would give to future game developers. buzz: How long was the development for “This is the Zodiac Speaking”? From the first idea for the game to release the final product. Krzysiek Grudziński: I was fascinated by the Zodiac case for a very long time, and I’ve always dreamed of creating something based on the facts of the case. I aimed to create a similar atmosphere to Fincher’s movie, which I think is a masterpiece. The development process took around 2.5 years. For most of the time, the team consisted of three to four people. During the peak development stage, it was seven people involved. buzz: Why make a game about the Zodiac killer? Are you a fan of truecrime and unsolved mysteries? KG: Yes, I am definitely a fan. I love series like “Mindhunter” and “True Detectives.” I think everyone who

ever heard about the Zodiac case is curious about what happened and who he is. There are still so many unanswered questions, and they make a perfect base for stories and theories. I need to emphasize that “This is the Zodiac Speaking” is not a game about the serial killer. It’s based on the Zodiac case, but in fact, it’s about Zodiac’s victim and concentrated on his emotional states, thoughts, fears of the protagonist. buzz: Were there any other games that inspired the design of “This is the Zodiac Speaking?” Horror or detective games? KG: We were visually inspired by “Virginia” and “Firewatch” and influenced by “Vanishing of Ethan Carter” gameplay and others. buzz: Any words of advice you would give aspiring indie game developers out there? KG: Speaking from the experience of a three-yearold indie game studio – don’t rush it. For the first few projects, you can focus on gaining experience and assembling a team of developers who will work well for each other. Gain experience, work hard and your dream game will come true. “This is the Zodiac Speaking” is available on Xbox One, PS4, PC and Nintendo. aidanf3@readbuzz.com

MONDAY, MARCH 1

Crafts, Folklores and More!

 4-4:45 p.m.  A virtual event hosted by Spurlock Museum  Free This is an ongoing event from March 1 to March 6. The Spurlock Museum of World Cultures is announcing a week-long event called Crafts, Folklores and More to celebrate National Craft Month. This is a family-friendly event sponsored by Ascending Aesthetics and co-sponsored by the Spurlock Museum and the Museum of the Grand Prairie. Collaborators also include Jeane Rene Balekita, 4-H Champaign Mixed Clovers, WEFT Radio and our valued community members. Crafts, folklores and more will bring you an artsy combo of folktales with related crafts, youth presentations, and interactive sessions — all from the comfort of your homes.

Virtual Open Mic Night with Canopy Club

 7:30-11:30 p.m.  A virtual event hosted by The Canopy Club  Free Join the Champaign-Urbana Open Mic Nights crew, including Anika Emily, Jake Fava Music, Moe Pesci da Goodfella, 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, MARCH 2

Black Herstory Slam!

 Noon-1 p.m.  A virtual event hosted by Ashanti Files, the Poet Laureate of the City of Urbana  Free We are celebrating Black Women through poetry, music and spoken word. Join the Urbana Public Arts Program, the UC Independent Media Center and The Urbana Free Library for a showcase of poetry, spoken word, music and artistic expression

that highlights Black women’s history, present and future. This performance, featuring women from our community, is designed to promote creativity and connection! Join us on Facebook for this event. The recording will be viewable throughout March.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3

Lunchtime Live Storytelling

 1:15-1:45 p.m.  A virtual event hosted by Spurlock Museum  Free Take a relaxing lunch break and join Kim Sheahan Sanford, our assistant director of education and resident storyteller, for family-friendly stories from around the world.

Celebrate the Arts! Youth Art Competition with Parkland College  All Day  A virtual event hosted by Parkland College  Free Parkland College Community Education and Giertz Gallery will be hosting Celebrate the Arts! Youth Virtual Art Competition for District 505 youth ages seven-18. Students are invited to submit up to two pieces of artwork. There is no entry fee to participate in the competition. The competition will run until March 3. Students have a chance to win full summer 2021 scholarships for either College for Kids Camp or a Summer Discovery Camp. Each of the three age categories will have first, second and third place, along with honorable mentions. Selected works will be featured on Parkland’s social media pages, and winners will be announced by Tuesday at a virtual awards ceremony.

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Be wary of New Age spirituality wave on TikTok Differentiate between mainstream, trustworthy accounts BY CASEY DALY STAFF WRITER

If you have the popular app TikTok and follow astrology, you might have heard of The Great Conjunction. This astrological event occurred on the 2020 winter solstice involving Jupiter and Saturn’s proximity and representing a collective shift in consciousness. According to astrological theory, this shift’s significance characterized humanity’s urge to swing into awareness and spiritual development. In the science of astronomy, these two planets were more closely visible in the sky than ever in hundreds of years. And in the pseudoscience of astrology, the alignment of two megaintense planets representing authority and karma meant that the inhabitants of planet earth should brace for spiritual shifts and shake-ups. Leading up to this time, you might have seen clips about The Great Conjunction on TikTok — a haunting hyper pop blip against a blue string of LED lights in a loop: “The Great Conjunction is Coming. Will You Be Left Behind?” These videos quickly populated many For You pages, even those who weren’t particularly interested in astrology. And while TikTok might be the portal that piques a person’s interest in an array of metaphysical topics and many renowned occultists partake in the app, the majority of the information on “witchtok”

won’t take you far without some substantial effort. Something that contributed to my permanent deletion of the app was the prevalence of tarot videos that infested my For You page. They mostly had the same message: “He is coming back.” “He is your twin flame.” “You are in separation.” And the comments of many young and teenaged women, misled by the commodification of “twin flame” rhetoric, “I claim. 1111. He is coming back.” The twin flame conversation, primarily balderdash, draws many people into a surface-level practice of spirituality. Someone forms a trauma bond and assumes this means they have a “magical, spiritual” connection. They turn to spirituality and these video clips spew what is essentially a bait on a hook. Many people indeed wish to turn to a higher power during times of uncertainty. More people practiced new age and occultism in record numbers in 2020 during a trauma-packed pandemic, natural disaster and an election year. A well-rounded spiritualist will tell you that this is not how to practice tarot (though tarot is a relatively open practice with lots of room for individual crafting). These “twin flame” videos trick young people with trauma bonds into thinking their ex is coming back. A popular theory in opposition to psychic mediums is that grieving people will be open to hearing anything about their lost loved ones and riddle the reading with confirmation bias. These generalized TikTok tarot spreads do not help confront this theory but rather harm the credibility of these practices. TikTok has been how many

high school and college-aged women have learned about “manifestation,” aka the Law of Attraction that like attracts like. Videos of writing in a notebook 55 times, 3 6 9 gimmicks and candlelighting define this category. While it can be a great jumping-off point for someone to learn about the laws that govern the universe in a spiritual ethos, there is much more inner work, meditation and unlearning that go into properly working with this energy. Many videos encourage others to summon a deity, which is considered dangerous for a beginner. Some TikTok creators share their knowledge after years of practice. However, others may not realize from these short and gimmicky videos that spiritu-

ality is more about work and depth than it is about crystals and writing someone’s name in a notebook 55 times. It’s apparent that it has been commodified and watereddown for the sake of viewership, and that is an unfortunate thing. Also relevant is the argument that the “New Age” category is a collection of white-washed Eastern belief systems and religious practices. It is of utmost importance to understand the history behind any practice you might attempt and show reverence to it. Spirituality is for those who choose to learn about it. It wouldn’t be accurate to say that TikTok isn’t a viable marketplace to peruse the spiritual grocery aisles and learn quick tidbits about practice.

However, I would recommend buying a book from Beads N Botanicals in Urbana before getting into the “fun” stuff you see on TikTok (tarot spreads, manifestation, astral). There are many boring things to be done, but you can identify and dismantle self-limiting beliefs in the process. Keeping a clean room and staying on top of your energetic influences is a part of this. You can also reach within and work with the shadow self (the more profound and darker portions of the psyche), which is not the most joyful practice. The bite-sized spirituality offered by much of TikTok is a way to spread knowledge. But I would recommend doubletaking at one of these “manifestation, astrology, crystal” videos and dissecting what

the message and the point of the video genuinely are are. Reflect and know that learning and practice are two very different things. Respect the traditions, and learn where to draw the line between appreciation and appropriation. Know that no true spiritualist thinks they know much in the grand scheme. Know there is always work ahead. Though much of the mainstream spirituality content is not trustworthy, many trustworthy accounts want to spread the message of spirituality and aid the collective consciousness. That discernment will make all the difference. Be careful out there. caseyd@readbuzz.com

CAMERON KRASUCKI THE DAILY ILLINI

A customer receives a tarot card reading session at the Rose Bowl Tavern on Feb. 10, 2020.

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