2.17.21

The Volante W E D N E S D AY, F E B R U A R Y 1 7 , 2 0 2 1

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SPORTS (B1)

Cheerleaders turn business owners with Vermillion newest candy company Learn how three USD cheerleaders have transformed the strawberry decorating business in Vermillion on page B4.

Hard work drives former walk-on into leadership Sophomore Tasos Kamateros was a walk-on for the men’s basketball team from Greece, but now is one of the team’s leaders. Learn more about Kamateros and his dedication to Coyote basketball on page B1.

CHALLENGES OF TITLE IX COMPLIANCE AT USD

Rachel Thompson | The Volante Tyler Boyle

Tyler.Boyle@coyotes.usd.edu

USD’s athletic department has 10 women’s and six men’s sports, and Title IX is the driving force behind the increased number of women’s sports on campus.

USD and other NCAA institutions have had to abide by Title IX regulations since 1972, when Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 was passed and implemented to eliminate sexbased discrimination on campuses, including in athletics.

“Title IX applies to all educational institutions, both public and private, that receive federal funds,” Jamie Oyen, Senior Associate Athletic Director, said in an email interview with The Volante. “Almost all private colleges and universities must comply with Title IX regulations because they receive federal funding through federal financial aid programs used by their students. Athletic programs are considered educational programs and activities and are subject to Title IX regulations.”

There are three main tests to Title IX compliancy. The first test requires the university’s athletic participation gender ratio to be proportionate to the gender ratio of undergraduate students at the university.

Institutions may also fulfill Title IX obligations with two other tests: expansion and accommodation.

USD could fill the expansion requirement by demonstrating “a history and continuing practice of program expansion for the underrepresented sex,” according to Title IX of

the Education Amendments of 1972.

According to Tyler Custis, a business professor at USD and member of the Gender Equity Committee, the athletic department may be able to point to this test by exhibiting their expansion of women’s sports.

“What you can do is say ‘Well, we’re continuing adding and adding a women’s sport every other year’ or something like that,” Custis said. “Which may help us with women’s triathlon (in 2018) but most likely you would have to continue to add more and more.”

Custis said there is the likelihood of USD adding more women’s sports in the future to continue to abide by Title IX. The accommodation test is the third test for universities and states. An institution must “fully and effectively accommodate the interests and abilities of the underrepresented sex” according to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

This means a university must offer a sport for the underrepresented sex when there is a “significant interest and ability” for that sport. “(In this test) you would ask all the underrepresented sex, which is females, what are your interests and abilities?” Custis said.

“So whatever the interests and abilities of the represented class… you need to offer that sport to them.”

Oyen also stated USD was in compliance with this test.

“USD is in compliance with Title IX as it pertains to athletics by sufficiently accommodating interests and abilities under prong three (accommodation test) of the

participation requirements test,” Oyen said.

“USD is always undergoing its own reviews as well as external reviews and makes adjustments if we find we are not fully meeting our obligations under Title IX.” Custis said one of the reasons USD athletics has such a hard time in fulfilling the first test of Title IX is because USD’s student body is disproportionately women and the men’s football program makes it hard for an athletic department to find enough women’s sports to even out a football roster.

Currently, USD athletics lists 102 male football players on their roster, the biggest sport participation of any sport at USD by 34 participants.

“Schools also have to balance the male opportunities (with women opportunities) and that just gets exacerbated when you have a big male football team,” Custis said. “I think you saw USD (add a women’s triathlon team at USD in 2018) because it’s really hard and that number of females at USD is not going down… and by adding triathlon that gave more opportunities to women… so they can be still in compliance with Title IX.” Custis said there are many athletic departments, like SDSU and South Dakota School of Mines, that don’t face these issues because they are closer to a 50-50 undergraduate split in gender at their school compared to USD.

See Title IX, Page A3

Title IX “No person in the United States shall, based on sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Men’s Sports at USD: - Football - Cross Country - Basketball - Track and Field - Swim and Dive - Golf Women’s Sports at USD: - Cross Country - Track and Field - Swim and Dive - Soccer - Triathlon - Volleyball - Basketball - Golf - Softball -Tennis

Vermillion area Toastmasters adapts to remote events Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

The USD-Area Yappin’ Yotes, a local chapter of the nearly 100-year-old public speaking club Toastmasters, has had to find ways to combat COVID-19 regulations and technical challenges.

Officers in Toastmasters chapters serve one year terms. Steven Thum, the current sergeant at arms for the Yappin’ Yotes, said his job, which normally involves setting up physical meetings, has been different since most of the club’s events have moved to Zoom. Thum said he hopes the group will be able to conduct more in-person meetings later this year.

“It’s been a very unusual year, because in the terms of the normal responsibilities of my job, I really haven’t had a whole lot to do,” Thum said.

Jen Hovland, a co-sponsor of the club who helped organize it at its start, and who currently serves as the club’s vice president of education, said the club took one week off in March 2020 when COVID-19 related closures and restrictions were first implemented.

“As a 14-year Toastmaster veteran, I’ve seen quite a few changes within Toastmasters. This has been the hardest hurdle to conquer,” Hovland said in an email interview with The Volante. “It seems to lessen the appeal of attending the meeting for those less comfortable with technology.”

Lindsay Hayes, the group’s club treasurer, said the switch involved modifying the group’s entire platform. “(It’s) basically relearning how to give a very exciting speech with this much space as opposed to an entire stage,” Hayes said.

Members had to change their body language, gestures and intonation to effectively get the same points across over a digital platform as in person. Hayes said the move was unprecedented since Toastmasters was founded in 1924.

“We know what to do with our bodies, and with gestures, and eye contact and all of that, but when you’re talking about looking at a camera versus looking at an audience, you kind of have to modify what you’re doing,” Hayes said.

See Toastmasters, Page A3

Submitted Photo | The Volante

Toastmasters, a public speaking and communication group founded in 1924, moved events online in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

News

A2 Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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WILSON FLORIST PREPS FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

Peyton Beyers I The Volante

Wilson Florist, Vermillion’s downtown flower and gift shop, prepped for one of their biggest times of the year, Valentine’s Day. The florist created hundreds of bouquets and gifts for their customers this Valentines season.

CITY OF VERMILLION POLICE BLOTTER

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driving citations

Feb. 7 Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity at a residence. Caller reported observing an unknown person who appeared to be trying to look through the windows of a neighboring home. Officers searched the area and ultimately did not locate him.

Feb. 7 Vermillion PD officers assisted the Clay County Sheriff’s Office with the recovery of a stolen vehicle that had been located at a gas station in town. One adult male was arrested for possessing stolen property.

Feb. 7 Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity outside of a residence. Caller reported hearing someone moving around outside the home, despite the late hour. Officers encountered one adult female who was intoxicated and became lost while trying to

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walk home. Officers located the woman’s residence and assisted in getting her transported home.

Feb. 7 Officers investigated a report of a car passing a stopped school bus which had its red lights flashing. The suspect driver was identified and charges are pending.

>> Feb. 7 - Feb. 13

minors Feb. 9 The manager of a business requested assistance verifying the identification for a man attempting to purchase alcohol. An officer checked and found the identification was valid.

Feb. 8 Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity at a business in Vermillion.

Feb. 10 While responding to an unrelated call, an officer contacted a man who had a warrant for his arrest out of Minnehaha County. The man was arrested.

Feb. 8 Officers took a report of a vehicle collision that had no reported injuries.

Feb. 10 Officers received a report of harassment via social media.

No charges are pending.

Feb. 8 Officers located a subject with an outstanding warrant.

The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Feb. 10 Officers responded to a call of a crying girl. It was learned the teenager had been drinking. While waiting for a parent to arrive, the teenager tried to damage a patrol car and injure officers. Charges are pending.

Feb. 9 Officers stopped a car for speeding and cited the driver.

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bullet fired

Feb. 10 Officers stopped a car for speeding. The driver didn’t have insurance on the car, so the driver was cited and the car was towed.

Feb. 10 Officers responded to a call of a dispute between persons.

Officers found the dispute was over a custody issue.

Feb. 11 Officers responded to a call of a stolen car. The owner had started the car to let it warm up, and it was taken while he was gone. The car was found abandoned a couple hours later. Investigation continues.

Feb. 11 Officers responded to a noninjury accident. Investigation showed one car ran a yield sign and was struck by the other car. The driver was cited for the offense.

Feb. 11 Officers were called to an apartment complex to investigate a bullet coming through a wall. It was learned a male had accidentally fired a round while unloading his pistol. The male was cited for discharging a firearm within city limits.

Feb. 12 Officers received a driving complaint. Officers located the owner of the vehicle.

Charges are pending.

Feb. 13 Officers stopped a car for speeding. Two passengers in the car were under the age of 21 and had been drinking.

They were cited for underage consumption.

Feb. 13 Officers stopped a car for driving at night without headlights. The male driver had been drinking and failed sobriety tests. He was arrested for DUI.

Third annual Unite for USD hopes to exceed previous year’s donations Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

USD will host the third annual Unite for USD giving day Thursday. In commemoration of the university’s founding in 1862, the event is a 1,862 minute long fundraiser. Last year’s event raised $560,191 through 1,137 individual donors.

This year’s event includes several livestreams, in addition to giveaways in the Muenster University Center Pit Lounge. Donations go to 19 initiatives, with new initiatives this year including the Institute of American Indian Studies, the Student Emergency Fund and the Take Your Seat campaign.

Whitney Alexander, executive director of constituent engagement at the USD Foundation, said she helped plan the event in coordination with other USD Foundation and USD staff.

“It takes the work of many dedicated partners to make Unite for USD happen,” Alexander said in an email interview with The Volante.

USD Foundation president and CEO Steve Brown said in a press release he believes Submitted Photo I The Volante giving day is important to the success of USD students and in advancing USD. “USD has so much to offer, and we are so thankful to have a community of Coyotes that Last year’s Unite for USD fundraiser rasied $560,191 through 1,137 individual donors. continues to show up and support our students,” Brown said.

Unite for USD will involve social media content and livestreams, and Alexander said students and alumni will be able to serve as social ambassadors for the event by Jacob Forster participating in games and challenges. news editor Because the event is largely digital, Alexander said the impact of COVID-19 restrictions Maddi Kallsen has been minimal. Alexander said this year’s events will involve an expanded digital news assistant Volume 145, No. 18 Chloe Fullenkamp presence, including both pre-recorded and live segments showcasing USD which will air February 17, 2021 news designer throughout the course of the event on USD’s Facebook and Youtube pages. www.volanteonline.com Rachel Pechous “The great thing about Unite for USD is that it is largely a digital opportunity, but that verve editor Al Neuharth Media Center doesn’t mean that COVID hasn’t pushed us to rethink the way we execute (it),” Alexander Bennett Clary 555 N. Dakota St. verve assistant said.

University of South Dakota Alle Anduaga Vermillion, SD 57069 Alexander said the USD Foundation is hoping to exceed donations from last year’s verve designer event.

Adviser Tyler Boyle “Unite for USD is about participation. It’s an opportunity to increase pride and Kyle Miller sports editor connection among alumni and friends,” Alexander said.

Sydney Johnson Mission statement sports assistant Carson Zubke, co-founder of Charlie’s Cupboard, an on-campus food pantry that was The Volante covers issues relevant and interesting to USD students. Faculty, Jessie Schneiderman partially launched by last year’s Unite for USD, said this year he hopes to raise the money staff and community members are welcome readers, but the newspaper is sports designer needed to expand the cupboard’s hours. written and presented for a diverse community of students from the students’ Emma Daggett “It’s been so humbling to see how the Cupboard has got started and grown just this point of view. The paper should provide a variety of information, entertainment opinion editor and educational opportunities for the readers. The Volante encourages everyone semester but also to see how many places food insecurity hides just in our campus Lauren Johnson to write letters to the editor. community,” Zubke said. “So our goal for this next year and specifically this week, this opinion designer The Volante wishes to be viewed by students as respectable, objective, Peyton Beyers Unite for USD is to raise those resources we need to expand what we’re doing and do more accurate, fair and trustworthy. If you have comments, concerns or questions, photo editor outreach for the community.” please contact The Volante at 677-5494.

Leah Dusterhoft As part of the fundraising, Zubke said student ambassador groups are reaching out to The Volante is distributed Wednesdays during the academic year free visual director five or 10 people they know and asking for $5 donations. of charge locally with the cost of $1 for each additional copy. One year Rachel Thompson subscription rates are $40, which solely covers the mailing costs.

“So this year, once we get to 200 individual donors, we’re going to get a $5,000 unlocking visual assistant The Volante does not endorse, promote or encourage the purchase or sale Miles Amende gift from an anonymous alumni of USD,” Zubke said. of any production service advertised in this paper. Advertisements are the sole copy editor Zubke said he is excited for this year’s Unite for USD and the expanded virtual responsibility of the advertiser.

DeAndre Hill environment.

The Volante disclaims all liability for any damage suffered as the result of any social media director “The last thing we want is for this to be a burden on people. It should be fun,” Zubke advertisement in this newspaper. The Volante reserves the right to Kaitlyn Kumm refuse any advertising. said. social media assistant Unite for USD begins Thursday, Feb. 18 at 10:58 a.m. and finishes on Friday, Feb. 19 at Cecilia Gillen Madilyn Sindelar Bailey Zubke advertising manager managing editor editor-in-chief 6 p.m. Those who would like to support can give at uniteforusd.org.

The Volante

News

A3 Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Writing Center spring hours include expanded Zoom sessions Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

Over the past year, USD’s Writing Center has adapted to the COVID-19 by increasing opportunities for students to receive assistance virtually while maintaining in-person meetings.

Emily Kluin, a writing consultant at the Writing Center, said the center helps students with all stages of writing, from citation styles to formulating a rough draft to offering guidance on revisions. The center also helps with theses and dissertations, as well as with application material and language conversational services for ESL students.

Kluin said some students have been experiencing more difficulty with classwork due to the increase in remote learning over the past year, and the Writing Center has worked to make sure students can receive help remotely. This includes uploading writing to a Dropbox to receive feedback as well as offering Zoom hours.

“We’ve been trying to adapt to make sure that no matter where writers are, they’re able to still access some of our services,” Kluin said. “We’ve been trying to be flexible with the ways that we allow students to access writing, but I do think, with the whole COVID scenario, it definitely is difficult.”

Michelle Rogge-Gannon, the director of the Writing Center, said while the Dropbox isn’t new, more students have been using it than in previous semesters.

“Honestly, I think it’s better to do the face-to-face if they can, or they can also do Zoom sessions,” Rogge-Gannon said.

Rogge-Gannon, who is also a professor at USD, said she has noticed students experience more difficulty in remote learning, and even in face-to-face classes with masks and social distancing.

“It’s more difficult to, you know, commit to an online class or to online learning, I guess, then when you’re on campus,” Rogge-Gannon said.

Additionally, COVID-19 restrictions have limited what the Writing Center has been able to offer besides help with writing.

Rogge-Gannon said the center had to shut down its beverage center.

“Normally, students could come in and get a cup of coffee or tea, or hot chocolate,” Rogge-Gannon said. “Which is one of the ways that we use to kind of make it a more friendly, you know, atmosphere.”

The center has also used more cleaning supplies and hand sanitizers, and provides face masks if a student needs a new one.

Kluin said some difficulties with the Writing Center have been miscommunications about its purpose. Students sometimes expect consultants to proofread papers instead of teaching students the skills to proofread their own papers.

“A lot of times, writers will come in, and they’ll be like, ‘oh, here’s my paper, can you mark it up with, like a red pen and show me all the areas that I need to fix?’” Kluin said. “And we’re not allowed to do that.”

Kluin said working at the Writing Center has been a rewarding experience.

“I really enjoy getting to talk with all the writers that come in and discuss their writing and help improve upon areas that they want,” Kluin said.

Rogge-Gannon encouraged all students, even students who consider themselves good writers, to take advantage of the Writing Center.

“A lot of students don’t and they should. And it’s really an advantage,” Rogge-Gannon said.

To get help from the Writing Center, students can visit the physical location in the library and meet with available consultants or make an appointment through Coyote Connections, as well as by uploading writing to the Dropbox.

The Volante | volanteonline.com

U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson to deliver USD commencement address Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

South Dakota Rep. Dusty Johnson will deliver the commencement address at USD’s 134th Commencement Ceremony in May at the DakotaDome.

Johnson, a USD alumnus who graduated in 1999 with a B.A. in political science and minors in business administration and history, was re-elected in November to represent South Dakota’s at-large congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Johnson serves on the Agriculture Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He is the ranking member of the Livestock and Foreign Agriculture Subcommittee and a member of the Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit Subcommittee.

Prior to serving in the U.S. House, Johnson was elected in 2004 to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, which regulates and facilitates investment in energy and telecommunications infrastructure. In 2010, Johnson was appointed to Gov. Dennis Daugaard’s chief of staff.

In the private sector, Johnson served as vice president of Vantage Point Solutions, a South Dakota-based engineering and consulting firm specializing in rural telecommunications. Johnson lives in Mitchell with his wife and three children.

“It is an honor to have Congressman Johnson as commencement speaker this year,” said USD President Sheila K. Gestring in a press release. “Congressman Johnson is a leader and a champion for South Dakota and the nation. We are extremely proud of this distinguished alumnus.”

Title IX From Page A1

Jacob Forster | The Volante

USD’s Writing Center has continued in-person assistance while expanding its online presence. The Writing Center encourages all students to take advantage of their services.

Three Minute Thesis Competition moves forward in person Allison Horkey

Allison.Horkey@coyotes.usd.edu

USD’s graduate school is sponsoring the fourth annual Three Minute Thesis competition this month. The preliminary rounds were held Thursday, Feb. 11 and the final rounds will be held Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The winner of the competition will be awarded $350 and will go on to the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools 3MT competition. The second and third place winners will be awarded $250 and $150, respectively.

There are six contestants moving on to the final round: Kirby Fuglsby, Christa Huber, Brandon Meyerink, Carrie Minette, Elizabeth Sterling and Nisitha Wijewantha.

The Three Minute Thesis competition is judged by criteria set out by the Three Minute Thesis rules. The competition criteria dictate judges of the competition must be non-specialists. The preliminary round judges were Beth Lambeth, USD’s Technology Transfer Officer; Doug Wagner, Director of the Munster University Center and Student Programing and Travis Vlasman, Director of Graduate Admissions.

The final rounds will be judged by Lindsay Hayes, Coordinator for Student and Instructional Assessment; Matthew Siebert, Digital Strategist and Shama Ali, the International Student Advisor.

“That’s sort of the challenge of the competition,” Brittany Wagner, USD’s Director of Graduate Education, said. “So the Three Minute Thesis is essentially a public speaking competition where we want our students to parlay the research that they have been possibly working on for years even, into something that a non-expert audience could understand.”

Brittany Wagner said there are usually 20-25 contestants in the preliminary round but this year there were only 13. Brittany Wagner said the low numbers were probably because of the pandemic.

Andrea Fencl is a graduate student at USD and won second place in last year’s Three Minute Thesis competition.

“When I went into it, I wasn’t going in to win anything. It was more for the experience and getting that understanding,” Fencl said. “I think, going into it with the idea of improving your thesis and getting that feedback and having fun and learning, I think that those are good

Toastmasters From Page A1

Since members call in from home, aside from technical difficulties or slow internet speeds, Thum said there are also distractions, such as one member’s child who he said likes to make herself heard during meetings. Thum said that for him the biggest challenge has been the lack of human contact.

“You miss that contact of talking with people ahead of time,” Thum said. “I mean, you can do it online, but it’s different than doing it in person. I guess you miss that human contact.”

Hovland said other challenges with public speaking over Zoom include a lack of audience feedback and a loss of personal connections between members.

“Normally we mingle about before and after meetings, but in the virtual environment isn’t conducive for that,” Hovland said.

Toastmasters International implemented virtual contests on March 16, 2020. This included the August international convention which was meant to be held in Paris. While Hovland said this allowed more people

ways to go into it.”

Brittany Wagner said she thinks the competition is popular because speaking and communication are desired skills for students in all graduate programs.

“So sometimes you might think somebody from communication might be better than somebody from a natural sciences area. It’s not always the case,” Brittany Wagner said.

Fencl said she enjoyed hearing everybody’s speeches because she was able to learn about other students’ research.

“That’s another part of being in grad school, you don’t know what everybody’s research is,” Fencl said.

Brittany Wagner said students who speak at the competition will be invited to speak at other events or receive job offers.

“Some of those speakers will get asked to speak at other events. So it can it can bring you some recognition and depending on your field of study, like that can be that can be huge,” Brittany Wagner said. “This is really a way to get your work out there.”

Allison Horkey | The Volante

Graduate students at USD participate in the Three Minute Thesis competition, presenting their graduate thesis in only three minutes for a chance at cash prizes.

“Many schools are facing this issue around the country but I think it might be the liberal arts schools that are facing it more than others,” Custis said.

Oyen said that the USD athletic department is aware of these challenges and is making efforts to make sure it stays compliant with Title IX rules and regulations.

“USD’s high percentage of female students can make participation proportionality difficult. We are aware of this challenge as it is common to many schools with a larger female student population,” Oyen said. “We have worked with the South Dakota Board of Regents and external reviewers to assess and ensure our compliance under the “interest and abilities” prong. Most recently, we have contracted with Nelson Mullins, a firm that specializes in Title IX Athletics compliance, to assist us with our compliance efforts.”

Custis referred to the participation-proportionality test as the “gold-standard” and “safest way” for school’s to satisfy Title IX requirements and the other two test to be less objective.

There have been efforts at USD to try to increase the number of men that attend the university in order to make this ratio more even Custis said.

“I don’t know if (the effort to get more men on campus) is 100% Title IX because I think it is providing more opportunities for people to come to school and drive more enrollment but Title IX is part of it,” Custis said. “I think it has been one of these things where they’re like ‘Let’s have a major in analytics’ because there are more men interested in analytics and stuff like that.”

Custis also said there are some creative ways athletic departments, like USD, can be in compliance with Title IX when trying to reach the allowed gender ratio. “(Title IX) is not by body, it’s by opportunity,” Custis said.

“So if a female participates in cross country, indoor track and outdoor track, they count the same as three male football players.”

This reason, Custis said, is why there are a lot more women participating in track and field and cross country than there are men.

USD there are 68 women who participate in both indoor and outdoor track and field, however there are 45 men who participate in men’s indoor and outdoor track and field.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools have been forced to drop sports for financial reasons. Custis said a lot of these drops have been male sports because most schools cannot afford to drop a women’s sport or they will not be in compliance with Title IX. “Clemson dropped men’s track… Minnesota was going to drop men’s track and then they had a big push and they fought back and I think they’re okay now but the demographics of those schools are big drivers,” Custis said.

According to Business of College Sports 58 men’s sports have been dropped since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and 43 women’s sports. Many men’s and some women’s sports have not yet officially been dropped because some programs are trying to raise funds to reverse the drops.

Title IX doesn’t apply to just athletics. Oyen said that Title IX has an effect on everyone, not just student athletes.

“Title IX benefits everyone,” Oyen said. “Title IX legislation eliminates sex-based discrimination to ensure all studentsboth male and female- have access and equality in education.

It offers a wide range of protections across campus, from athletics and admission to housing and sexual harassment.

A continued effort to achieve educational equity has benefited all students by moving toward creation of school environments where all students may learn and achieve the highest standards.”

In a future issue of The Volante, we will talk to student athletes who have been affected by Title IX.

to attend, it also led to website crashes throughout the event.

“A positive of the video conferencing of events is that we are able to attend multiple club meetings around the world,” Hovland said. “We had a visitor to our club that was working on speaking at a club in every state within 90 days.”

Toastmasters is a due-based organization, but Thum said the club has a fund for college students’ dues to encourage their participation.

“We are a community that obviously here in Vermillion is very reliant on the college and there’s a lot of college students here,” Thum said. “This is something I would like to see more of them participate in.”

While Toastmasters is not a social club, Hovland said the program normally allows more introverted members to practice their public speaking skills with a group they are comfortable with. With Zoom meetings allowing for less socialization, this is reduced.

“Personally, I’m an extrovert. I miss getting to be around people,” Hovland said. “Just having people Submitted Photo | The Volante around gives me energy. I feel my speaking style has Toastmasters international implemented virutal competitions and meetings in slacked since going to a virtual presence because I March 2020, so groups could work with more people across the globe. don’t get the energy from those around me.”

Opinion

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

THE VOLANTE

VOLANTEONLINE.COM/OPINION

EDITORIAL

Movie theaters vs.

COVID

IT’S A NUMBERS GAME 403

MATTHEW WAGENAAR is a first-year majoring in accounting.

In April 2019, I had the privilege of attending an opening night showing of “Avengers: Endgame” with 11 of my closest peers. The experience brought us a theater of laughing, crying and cheering for our favorite characters we had spent the years prior getting to know and love. Nobody ever expected a year later, in 2020, the seats we sat in would be empty.

With theaters hopeful of widespread vaccination bringing viewers back in to attend films, one wonders what the next “big film” will be. Multiple movies have begun being pushed a second time including “No Time to Die.” Fans of film are wondering if “Black Widow” and “F9” will hit the big screen in May. While the theatrical experience has come to a halt, studios have found ways to adapt. Disney for instance has sent some of their films straight to Disney+ and are exploring a hybrid premier access model with “Raya and the Last Dragon” on March 5 releasing in theaters and on Disney+. Warner Bros. has decided to also explore the hybrid release model and may do same day releases with every single 2021 film on their slate including “Godzilla vs. Kong” and “The Suicide Squad.”

Distribution of movies has always been a big thing for studios. Traditionally, studios have followed a three-month window in the past few years which means it is approximately three months from when a movie hits theater to when it is released physically and digitally. With the window seemingly shortened, will studios go back to this model

The increase in percentage of college women athletes in 2001 from 1972.

133 The millions of dollars spent more in male scholarships in 2003.

Zoom is making it much more difficult for students to learn in the traditional sense.

Peyton Beyers I The Volante

1.1

Editorial: Is online really the answer?

Due to COVID-19, schools across the nation have had to alter their methods of teaching over the past year to ensure the safety of their students, staff and faculty. Many of these methods revolved around adapting traditional teaching methods into a virtual platform.

Due to this, students found that many of their professors were altering their classes to these virtual methods as well.

A common platform found at USD is Zoom. Zoom allows students and professors to interact in the same way they would a video chat. Zoom offers several features from the students’ end and the professors’ end of the call. Along with video and audio features, Zoom also provides a chat room for all to converse. It even allows professors to share their screens with students making the lecture slide easy to read.

While this sounds like the ideal method to opt for teaching during the pandemic, do these new Zoom classes offer as many pros as they do cons?

Zoom classes are a great way to communicate while staying safe during COVID-19. However,

they might not be used to their full potential.

Professors at USD each seem to have their own expectations for their Zoom classes.

An important expectation is whether or not the professor requires a video camera being turned on. This may sound like a small detail but whether students have their camera on can determine how much they are participating. Oftentimes when a student does not have their camera turned on it allows them to be more distracted and not be pressured to participate.

Professors who do not require the camera to be turned on might ask for participation through the mic or the chat room. While this influences more participation it is still not a guarantee that students are paying attention or are going to answer.

Along with Zoom classes, Dropbox features and discussion boards on D2L are now being utilized much more.

If classes are not meeting in person the most common way for professors to receive work from students and/or students to share with others is with

these two features. While they definitely do the job, they take away from some interpersonal aspects shared between students and professors. These features do not allow options for asking questions about the assignments. If students have a question they have to email their professors and wait for their response or do a private Zoom meeting with them. It makes it very difficult to ask and answer assignment questions efficiently.

These features also take away from personal feedback from professors. While there are comment boxes for this purpose, not all professors use them and if they do they might be very brief.

The lack of these interactions make it more difficult for students to learn. Many students are finding themselves teaching much of the material to themselves in hopes that they understand the material properly. Not only have these virtual alterations taken away from personal communications between professors and students, they have also taken away traditional learning.

The millions more male high school athletic participation opportunities than women.

50 The percentage of states in the U.S. had no employee to coordinate efforts in compliance with Title IX in 2002.

32,000 The number of women who competed in college athletics in 1972.

216,300 The number of women who competed in college athletics in 2018.

From www.aclu.org

See THEATERS Page A5

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The Volante

WEEKLY POLL:

THE STUDENTS’ VOICE SINCE 1887

What did you do during the cold snap and long weekend?

EDITORIAL BOARD Bailey Zubke, editor-in-chief

Tyler Boyle, sports editor

Madilyn Sindelar, managing editor

Rachel Pechous, verve editor Emma Daggett, opinion editor

CONTACT US The Volante welcomes letters to the editor in regards to campus, local, state and national issues. Letters will be edited for clarity and length and will be printed as space allows. Please limit letters to 300 words or fewer. The Volante reserves the right to hold letters for publication in a later issue.

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Send letters to: Al Neuharth Media Center 555 N. Dakota St. Vermillion, S.D. 57069 Fax to: 605.677.5105 Email to: volante@coyotes.usd.edu Via our website: volanteonline.com The deadline for letters is 5 p.m. the Friday prior to publication.

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Sleep

44.4%

Hot chocolate and movies

11.1%

Homework

33.3%

Drink

11.1% *Out of 9 voters

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Opinion

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“WandaVision” Premiere

THEATERS From Page A4

While traditional windows may never return with consumers now adapted to watching films at home, there will be a variety of windows based on a film’s performance.

Movie theaters need big blockbuster movies to survive, though, and studios will still make those movies because they reel in money which cannot be produced if put on a streaming service.

Therefore, there are a lot of films being pushed months and months instead of being

dropped to streaming. A three-month window is still likely for a physical media release, but a digital release could come anywhere from three weeks to three months to even the same day a film releases.

There will always be a place for movie theaters. There’s a social aspect which cannot be replicated with at-home viewings of films.

Changes to what we are used to are inevitable at this point, but in the end, we consumers are the ones who win.

Wednesday, February 17, 2021 A5

JOHN LEFFERTS is a first-year majoring in philosophy.

How do you feel about spoilers, generally? I’m warning you right now, I’m going to talk about Disney’s new streaming show “WandaVision”. Still reading? You’ve been warned.

“WandaVision” starts with its two main characters (Wanda and Vision) trapped in a series of old sitcoms. The TV shows they find themselves in slowly advance in years and the sophistication of the effects and style.

The first episode

resembles “I Love Lucy” with a classic husband/ wife misunderstanding.

The second episode seems to resemble shows like “Bewitched” or “I Dream of Jeannie.” Episode three shows us the “Brady Bunch,” then afterward comes a very blatant take on “Full House” followed by what I assume is “Malcolm in the Middle.”

I find I can’t get enough of this stuff. My parents, who were boomers (you know, the generation born from ’46 to ’64) made me watch most of these at one point. This was back when our phone had a curly cord (remember that?) and our TV was a big cube

that showed us the hell dimension known as cable.

I’m showing my age a little bit. Anyway, I find these spoofs to be the best parts of “WandaVision,” and the actual Marvel parts of it to be my least favorite.

However, there’s something I find interesting about the show I wanted to talk about here: it features an immaculate conception.

Growing up in the 2000s, my parents were still very much influenced by the Satanic Panics of the 80s. For a while, my mom thought “Harry Potter” was a way to do black magic and worship the devil.

She thought that about Dungeons & Dragons too,

until I had been playing it regularly for several years. In a way, maybe she was right; after all, I don’t go to church very often anymore!

I guess what I’m getting at here is that I’m surprised there is no “think of the children” cranks coming out of the woodwork to say that “WandaVision” is mocking Christ and the family. Ok, I lied, I’m not surprised.

Ironically, by doing something so symbolically loaded, The Mouse has neatly avoided maybe the one thing that the Disney+ streaming service doesn’t have: sex.

Black History Month: The importance of reflection through the years ELLA BEYERS is a sophomore majoring in political science.

The end of cursive EMMA DAGGETT is a first-year majoring in English.

In fourth grade my class spent a week trying to learn how to write the alphabet in cursive. We would have a workbook and trace the letters, then do it on our own.

After the week, I kind of forgot about it. But it has helped in certain situations.

I don’t write in cursive; I actually don’t write things on paper a lot anymore. But I think it’s beneficial for students to still learn how to read and write in cursive.

Many of the people who write in cursive are older and probably grandparents. When I was younger, I would get letters from my grandma and couldn’t understand what they said. I would need my parents to read it to me. Now, I still have trouble making out certain words (mainly because of the awful handwriting they have) but I can read what was written.

Cursive has many benefits, but I don’t think students need to be proficient at writing in cursive. It’s a good idea for them to be introduced to the writing style.

There are a few

reasons why learning cursive is a good idea.

The first is you can read what was written in a letter. When your grandparents send you birthday cards, you can read what’s written.

Letters aren’t the only thing you can read if you understand cursive. A lot of historical documents written in the past are in cursive. If people know cursive, they can read the Declaration of Independence or the Constitution. Yes, these are all online somewhere typed up, but I like the idea that I can read our nation’s history for myself.

Cursive is also good because you can learn to write and read signatures. Legal documents require you to print your name and then sign. Cursive helps to teach you how to create and form your signature.

Cursive can also help children with brain development. An article from the New York Times said, “cursive writing prepares students’ brains for reading and enhances their writing fluency and composition.” Writing in cursive helps to further students’ understanding of the English language.

I don’t think writing proficiently in cursive should be mandatory in schools anymore. But I do think students should be introduced so they have the option to learn more.

Given recent and ongoing events, it seems more vital than ever Americans acknowledge and are continually educated on African American history, especially during this month of reflection.

Black History Month started on a small scale, but the recognition of it has been steadily increasing as the connections between cultures grow and the media grants it the coverage it so deserves and correspondingly needs. History in all areas is necessary because it allows mankind to examine their mistakes and then hopefully gain an ability to recognize

more-remote areas.

This is certainly not a blatant statement of blame, but a lack of information can sometimes cause just as much harm as malicious intent.

That being said, there is so much to gain from both the encouraging and heartbreaking sides of Black history. First, in order to begin to see through another’s eyes, people must be exposed to the disturbing hardships and discrimination African Americans have endured through the centuries.

This is why the nation’s history should never be censored, as distressing news is news most likely to inspire change. The more hopeful sections serve an equally important purpose.

Individuals like W.E.B. Du Bois, Ella Baker, Sojourner Truth, and,

of course, MLK Jr. and Rosa Parks; all possessed an innate and unquenchable desire for justice.

Their life works have obviously been hugely impactful, and fully comprehending the personal sacrifices of these civil rights activists inspires admiration and a desire to oppose injustice just as adamantly.

Everyone is entitled to opportunity in America, and, as the nation continues to mend itself from the atrocities of its past, people can do what they were meant to do since the beginning – learn, grow, and heal. This month is a dedicated time period of remembrance; but I hope reflections from Black History Month will become ongoing celebrations and advancements will always be in motion.

Polar Vortex: A good reason to be thankful JOSEPH SMITH is a senior majoring in English.

I’m grateful for the unbearably cold winters that we have here in South Dakota. Yes, even the sharp wind that simultaneously finds its way down your jacket and up your pant legs.

As of the moment of this writing the temperature is currently -7 degrees Fahrenheit. And I find this something to be thankful for.

Before you start thinking that I’m crazy, let me share some perspective as to why I think this way. Here in the Midwest, we have a diverse range of weather. There are hot summers where it gets up into the hundreds and frigid winters where it gets down into the negatives.

Growing up, I’d often find myself complaining at either end of the

OVERHEARDS

Here you’ll find the weirdest, funniest and stupidest things we’ve heard during the week. Context is for suckers.

“Do people still get married, like is that a thing?”

— Neuharth

“Why would you want chickenless sauce?”

— Coyote Village

“Wait, I kinda look like a Jewish E-boy.”

— Beede 3

“I’m getting really sick of this Hannah Montana CD.” — Dakota St.

“This is so cool, I feel like they actually care about us right now.”

— Franklin St.

similar patterns occurring in the present day.

If anything, this makes a general knowledge of Black history even more crucial because systematic and cultural issues from the past can be compared and contrasted to today’s concerns regarding race.

Many people in South Dakota grow up fairly sheltered from cultural diversity (not speaking for every individual) simply because of the lack of population and vicinity to larger cities. Because of this, it can be easy to be ignorant of racial discrepancies in the metropolitan areas.

Personally, I have not seen substantial amounts of educational opportunities in regards to Black history when travelling home to my own town and through smaller,

year. During the summer I’d think to myself, “If only it could snow.”

And during winter I’d think, “If only it was 90 degrees.” Never finding a place of appreciation for the current weather I was experiencing.

What began to shift my thinking was the joy that I would experience at the arrival of spring. Every year spring would come around and the frigid dry air would give way to humidity and sunshine. I’d find myself with such an elevated mood and a thankfulness for the warmth that was often beyond expression.

I began to realize that if it wasn’t for the harsh and painful winter cold, I would never quite realize and appreciate just how beautiful spring is.

When you first begin to see green at the onset of spring it feels vibrant as if you’ve never seen such a sight. But as the year goes on and the summer heat begins to weigh heavily, it all seems to become commonplace. And we tend to lose

appreciation for the colors that abound throughout nature.

I’ve heard a lot of people complain about winter, but I can’t say I’ve ever heard anyone complain about spring. I would argue that it is exactly this reason why we should stop complaining about winter and become grateful for it.

We should learn to be thankful for the discomfort of the season because of the intense joy that it births in the next season.

If we never tasted of the pain of winter, we wouldn’t realize how sweet spring is. I hope it is clear at this point that although I am speaking literally, I am also speaking figuratively about the difficult seasons that we often face in our lives.

It is precisely those seasons that make us have that much more joy when we see the bright sun shining down as the snow melts and gives way to new beginnings.

Want to make your voice heard?

If you are interested in writing Opinion for The Volante, email The Volante at volante@coyotes. usd.edu.

A6 Wednesday, February 17, 2021

News

The Center for Diversity and Community plan for change Bennett Clary

Bennett.Clary@coyotes.usd.edu

Peyton Beyers | The Volante The CDC’s Talking Change Making Change program is designed to educate participants on how to make social and personal change.

The Volante | volanteonline.com

The Center for Diversity and Community is hosting Talking Change Making Change, a critical dialogue and action program themed around cultural connections and building allyship that will run Feb. 22 to April 1 in the MUC ballroom.

The program’s goal is to educate participants that dialogue is ineffective without corresponding action if one wants to create change personally or socially.

The Center for Diversity and Community (CDC) is pairing with the office of diversity, multiple representatives from the law school and political science department, the native student services as well as other various departments and facilities across campus. Laura Chandler, the director of The Center of Diversity and Community said that the purpose of this program is to gather people from different backgrounds to engage on various topics that are relevant to their community.

“The nice thing about Talking Change Making Change is that each group, their focus is going to be different, it really depends on the experiences of everyone in the room,” Chandler said.

Chandler said students who participate might have conversations about topics such as race and ethnicity, gender identity and nationality, sexual orientation, religion or faith.

“That’s the idea. We want it broad enough so that everyone participating really feels comfortable and safe talking about it in a way that feels safe for them,” Chandler said.

Chandler says that this program will help students become more action-orientated in any challenges they come to face.

The program will first focus on conversations about different aspects of cultural connections and working to create an action plan.

At the end of the seminar, all participants and facilitators come together to make a presentation about what was learned.

Chandler said participants will learn how to engender respect for differences and how to explore personal and societal issues in a group setting.

Students can talk with their professors about receiving course points for attending the seminars.

Overall, Laura Chandler says that she thinks students will be surprised by how much they enjoy getting to know different members around the campus community that are not usually in their social circle. She hopes that this seminar will challenge students to create a community filled with like-minded students who think similarly about cultural indifference.

“We have a lot more in common than we realize, but our differences can also serve as important parts of connections with members of the community,” Chandler said.

USD takes steps toward sustainability with PLAN

Rachel Thompson | The Volante Maddi Kallsen

Maddilynn.Kallsen@coyotes.usd.edu

The Post Action Landfill Network (PLAN) helps college students across the country by providing resources, educational courses and leadership training. USD students have access to all of these trainings at the website postlandfill.org by using a USD e-mail.

“PLAN empowers our generation to be changemakers.

We really put our belief in students for this zero-waste movement; that’s the biggest part of what we exist to do,” Yu-Shien, Co-Director of Atlas Zero Waste Strategy at PLAN, said.

PLAN was created by New Hampshire college students in 2013 who noticed there was a need for someone to coordinate a donation program for things students threw out at the end of each semester, such as lamps, desks and TVs, Yu-Shien said. Other campuses expressed a need for such a program. Eventually, upon graduation, the founding students turned the program into a national non-profit organization.

Now PLAN is affiliated with over a hundred universities,

including USD, Yu-Shien said.

Anna Moore, USD Campus Recycling Coordinator, helped get USD connected with PLAN and the resources PLAN has to offer.

“Part of the mission of PLAN is to help campuses move beyond waste along with supporting student leadership,” Moore said. “They’re all about helping teach students leadership and organizational skills that are necessary to create change on campus.”

Currently, there is a Plastic Free Action Camp PLAN is hosting, which will educate students about plastic and its harmful effects on the environment. This month-long course will advise students on how to create a successful campaign to reduce plastic on campus.

“One course that I’m encouraging students to attend along with the Action camp is the Break Free From Plastic Summit on March 6,” Moore said. “This will be an event for students all across the country who have interest in the topic to brainstorm and design a campaign for their campus with the help of PLAN staff who will be there to coach.”

Moore is planning to host a roundtable discussion with

other sustainability leaders, including the president of the Environmental Law Society Berkley Fierro, president of the Environmental Club Holly Black and president of the United Nations Association Breana Spinler, after the March 6 summit.

“Student interest can help us decide what to focus on.

If we see what students are most motivated to work on and change, that’s where we should put our attention,” Moore said. “What I have noticed is a lot of students are concerned about single-use plastics. I think that reducing our reliance on single-use plastic is one of the most feasible changes that we could make.”

Along with the action camp and the summit, USD will also be participating in the Race to Zero Waste, a competition between universities, including SDSU, to see who can recycle the most by weight.

“I am looking forward to the momentum around waste reduction and single-use plastic reduction building this semester,” Moore said.

There are all different kinds of upcoming events PLAN is hosting available to all USD students. For more information go to Postlandfill.org

“Marquee Messages Fundraiser” lets donors run custom messages Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

The Dakota Hospital Foundation is in the midst of its “Marquee Messages Fundraiser,” where donors can submit custom messages to be shown on the LED sign located outside Sanford Vermillion.

Cindy Benzel, director of the Dakota Hospital Foundation, said the messages people submit tend to be holiday greetings, birthday and anniversary wishes and congratulations for others’ accomplishments. Messages are limited to two to three lines, excluding event advertising.

“Submit your message, return to the payment process, and see your message glow,” Benzel said in an email interview with The Volante.

Benzel said the foundation, which began its work in 1930, supports initiatives focused on enhancing opportunities in three main areas through financial contributions.

These areas are clinical innovations, health care education and quality of life.

The first, clinical innovations, involves fostering and enhancing programs and services, like 3D mammography, remodels and the purchase of new equipment. The second, health care education, involves support of community health and wellness programs and scholarships for health professionals. Quality of life includes supporting community projects that enhance the quality of life of residents, patients, visitors and staff.

“All gifts to the Dakota Hospital Foundation are used to further its important mission,” Benzel said. “(This mission is) improving the health of the individuals and communities in our area.”

Peyton Beyers | The Volante Coyotes women’s basketball players sport pink jerseys for breast cancer awareness. The auction will close at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 21.

Coyote women’s basketball pink jersey auction takes place this week Bailey Zubke

Bailey.Zubke@coyotes.usd.edu

Submitted Photo | The Volante All donations will benefit the Dakota Hospital Foundation to improve the health of individuals and their communities.

USD’s athletic department is auctioning off five pink jerseys with proceeds going to the Dakota Hospital Foundation this week.

The pink jersey auction runs in conjunction with USD’s annual Pink Game which is scheduled for Sunday at noon as the Coyotes take on Oral Roberts in the Sanford Coyote Sports Center. The Coyotes sport pink jerseys and warm-ups for breast cancer awareness.

The five jersey numbers being auctioned off correlate with the five USD seniors. The jersey numbers are 1, 2, 11, 22 and 34.

The Dakota Hospital Foundation in Vermillion helps in supporting community health and wellness. The bids started at $75 and the bidding increases are required to be of $10 or more. Fans also must create an account in order to place a bid.

The winners of the auctions will be announced at halftime of the game Sunday afternoon. Bidding closes at 12:30 p.m. Sunday. The Coyote women are in action Sunday at noon against Oral Roberts in the SCSC.

Sports

Wednesday, February 17, 2021 THE VOLANTE

VOLANTEONLINE.COM/SPORTS

HARD WORK, LEADERSHIP DRIVES FORMER WALK-ON

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

Sophomore forward Tasos Kamateros attempts a basket amidst a group of Omaha defenders during a game in the Sanford Coyote Sports Center Friday, January 29.

Bailey Zubke

Bailey.Zubke@coyotes.usd.edu

When Tasos Kamateros decided to leave his home country of Greece to walk-on for the USD men’s basketball team, he knew he would have to work to earn his spot, so he put in the work.

“He (USD assistant coach Gameli Ahelegbe) basically made me realize that when I come here, I have to work harder than everybody else if I want to achieve something and have a spot on the team,” Kamateros said. “But he was very honest with what I need to do and what I need to improve on to get better and help the team.”

Kamateros, a sophomore business major, was given a scholarship after being a walk-on athlete who was mostly used for scout team work in practices. He averaged just six minutes per game during his freshman season, but Kamateros said he will never forget receiving his scholarship.

“I lost my words I was so happy,” Kamateros said. “I was expecting it and I wasn’t expecting it at the same time. When I got the message from Coach Lee that he wants to meet with me at his office, I was like okay, maybe he wants to say something different, like maybe he doesn’t say anything about the scholarship. But then he told me about it and I was so happy I called my parents immediately. I was like ‘hey dad, hey mom like I got a scholarship.’ It’s one of those moments that I’m never going to forget.”

Kamateros was brought in knowing that the Coyotes would

be looking for a potential starting big man following Tyler Hagedorn’s graduation after the 2020 season. To prepare for the opportunity to play more, Kamateros said he worked on his conditioning and athleticism.

Kamateros and Ahelegbe work out twice a week at 8 a.m., working on individual skills around the basket and building up his shot. Ahelegbe said while the number may not show it, Kamateros can shoot extremely well from distance, something that showed on his visit day.

“I will never forget on that visit, he came and I can’t remember who we played that day, but we had a film session,” Ahelegbe recalled. “And so he came to watch our game…. I remember he asked if he could shoot during the film session and I was like ‘yeah you can shoot, its not a problem at all.’ I didn’t think anything of it. And so during our film session, he was in there shooting. And then after the film session Sam (a student manager) came up to me and was like ‘gee, that kid can really shoot it.’ I’m like ‘really?’ and he said ‘yeah he’s drilling threes,’ I’m like ‘that’s good to know.’”

Kamateros said his mindset has always been how he can help his team win. He said he knew he wouldn’t be playing 20 or more minutes a night, but wanted to make an impact regardless. Kamateros’s season high in minutes last season was 17 against a non-division I opponent in Peru State.

Kamateros started this season out on the bench, but after five games, the Coyote coaching staff noticed how much smoother

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

Kamateros made a big impact on assistant coach Gaeli Ahelegbe on his recruiting visit to USD, by shooting three’s while the team watched film.

the offense ran with Kamateros on the floor, and inserted him into the starting lineup. The Coyotes started 0-5 and have gone 11-4 since.

Kamateros now averages 18.9 minutes per game, totaling 6.8 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. Ahelegbe said his leadership has also been a huge factor for the Coyotes this season.

“He’s a guy that brings people together,” Ahelegbe said.

“Energy is infectious, super positive, team-first type of guy. And so it shows, like, we are sitting here talking about how we need him to shoot the ball more, but that kind of goes to his character, where it’s never about Tasos, it’s more so ‘what do I need to do to help the team?’ Do I need to cheer more guys up, do I need to talk to players? He’s all about the team and making sure everyone’s in the right state of mind and just bringing a positive energy each and every day.”

Coming from Greece to South Dakota is a large commitment, one that Ahelegbe said is not easy, but he is proud of Kamateros and his work.

“We’re just super proud that he’s in our program. I think he has a real bright, bright future in our program,” Ahelegbe said.

“He’s gonna be a guy who’s gonna help us win a ton of games and I’m just really excited for what he has to bring to the USD community, and so we’re just glad he’s a part and I want nothing but the best for that guy. He’s a true definition of what being a Coyote is all about as far as being a student athlete.”

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

After joining the USD men’s basktball team as a walk-on from Greece,

Kamateros earned a scholarship his sophomore year. “It’s one of those moments that I’m never going to forget,” Kamateros said.

USD financial aid assistant finds her way to Olympic Trials Sydney Johnson

Sydney.G.Johnson@coyotes.usd.edu

This year’s Olympic Trials will host many former Coyote athletes in the hopes of moving on and securing their spots on the Olympic team.

Emily Grove is one of the former USD athletes that will compete in this summer’s Olympic Trials. The Trials will take place in Eugene, Oregon at the end of June.

Grove is competing in her third Olympic Trials for polevaulting in 2021. She began her pole-vaulting career in the eighth grade in her hometown of Pontiac, Illinois.

When Grove was in the eighth grade she was drawn to polevaulting because at the time there was a high school kid in her hometown that was really good and she thought that jumping looked a lot cooler than running 400s around the track, Grove said.

During her high school career, Grove was a two-time Illinois state champion and set the Illinois state record in the pole-vault

at 13 feet, five inches.

Making it to the Olympics was never on her radar growing up. Instead, Grove said, she liked to make smaller and moreachievable goals for herself.

“The first step for me was just to go to college to pole-vault, then the second step was to be a Division I All-American, and then finally I was just focused on what heights I could jump,” Grove said.

Grove graduated from USD with her undergrad in 2015 and stayed to complete her masters in 2017. Now Grove remains on campus helping out in the financial aid office and training with her coach, Derek Miles.

In order to qualify to compete in the Olympic Trials in polevaulting, World Athletics puts out a standard which an athlete has to meet within a certain time frame. For women polevaulters, they have to reach a height of 4.70 meters.

Grove reached this standard height of 4.70 meters in August of 2019 and secured her spot in the Olympic Trials.

In order to prepare for the trials, Grove has stuck to a strict training schedule. She trains with Miles anywhere from five to six days a week. During this time, she focuses on sprinting drills, plyometrics, Olympic lifting and will complete practice jumps one or two times a week.

While Grove tries to train as much as possible, there have been some moments where COVID-19 has affected her ability to access the training facilities. These tricky moments haven’t stopped Grove — instead, they have continued to push her toward her goal of making it to the Olympics.

“I’m pretty focused on what I’m trying to accomplish, so it keeps me motivated. I’m very excited for this summer because there are a lot of opportunities that could arise,” Grove said.

Grove isn’t the only former Coyote to secure their spot in the Olympic Trials. Three 2019 graduates have also qualified to compete in the trials. These students include discus thrower Ben Hammer, hammer thrower Lara Boman and three-time NCAA pole-vault champion Chris Nilsen.

B2 Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Sports

The Volante | volanteonline.com

Volleyball splits weekend with Omaha Madilyn Sindelar

Madilyn.Sindelar@coyotes.usd.edu

USD volleyball splits matches over the weekend against the Omaha Mavericks, sweeping Sunday’s match and losing in five sets Monday night.

During the first matchup Sunday night the Coyotes defeated the Mavericks in a 3-0 sweep inside the Sanford Coyote Sports Center. South Dakota showed a strong defensive display during the home opener winning 25-16, 25-23 and 25-15.

The Coyotes were led by sophomore middle blocker Madison Harms who had two solo and eight assisted blocks.

She helped limit Omaha to a .064 hitting percentage.

Sophomore outside hitter Elizabeth Juhnke boasted 11 kills and 10 digs while junior middle blocker Maddie Wiedenfeld gained seven kills.

Junior setter Madison Jurgens and her classmate defensive specialist Lolo Weideman contributed nine digs and 13 digs, respectively. Jurgens also contributed 23 assists and Weideman four ace servings.

Monday night the Coyotes faced a different defensive game from the Mavericks.

Omaha used a different more aggressive serving style during the second meetup inside the SCSC, beating the Coyotes after

Sophomore outside hitter Elizabeth Juhnke tallied 29 kills against Omaha this past weekend.

a five set match. The loss ended the Coyotes 22-match regular season conference win streak. The set scores were 19-25, 25-21, 25-18, 20-25 and 15-12.

The Coyotes were able to battle back from a 2-1 set deficit to win set four but dropped their lead during set five to Omaha.

The Coyotes had three in double figure kills Monday for the first time in eight matches. Juhnke totalled 18 kills and 20 digs.

Junior Sami Slaughter boasted 14 kills and Harms ended the night with 11 kills. Jurgens also had 46 assists and 10 digs for the Coyotes.

The Coyotes now (4-4, 3-1) host North Dakota State Sunday and Monday inside the SCSC.

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

Compromising to succeed: Balancing religion, athletics Madilyn Sindelar

Madilyn.Sindelar@coyotes.usd.edu

At the Division I Challenge in Topeka, Kansas, junior Merga Gemeda won the 5,000 meter race, recording a time of 14:35.20.

This personal best performance ranks Gemeda sixth in Coyote history. It also allows Gemeda to be set up with a seed time fast enough to compete at the Indoor Track Summit League Conference Feb. 27-28 in Brookings, South Dakota.

The sports marketing and media major has seen success during his time as a Coyote and the commitment he makes with his coaches and his team allows him to excel. As a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Gemeda typically does not compete or practice on Saturdays because of his beliefs, unless it’s an important meet like the Challenge or Conference, Gemeda said.

Working with cross country and track Coach Dan Fitzsimmons and his family, Gemeda is able to balance his spiritual and competitive track life at USD. “He knows a lot of competitions at the college level are on Saturdays just like high school state meets. We try having him avoid competing on Saturdays, but sometimes if he doesn’t race he doesn’t get the opportunity,” Fitzsimmons said.

Normally, Fitzsimmons has Gemeda race on Friday so Gemeda can go back home to Sioux City for church with his family on Saturdays, Fitzsimmons said.

“He is very devout, so it’s something we’ve worked out together,” Fitzsimmons said. “Saturdays involve no running, work or activity for the day so I feel bad when he does have to race Saturday.”

During outdoor season the meet usually lines up for Gemeda better — distance outdoor races tend to take place Thursday nights, Fitzsimmons said. During a normal year the distance runners attend these meets regularly.

“I think that’s one of the reasons he chose USD, so he could run at Division I and still go home to church on Saturdays,” Fitzsimmons said.

Before committing to USD, Gemeda talked to lots of different coaches, and Fitzsimmons was one of the only ones who understood his situation, Gemeda said.

“We agreed that I can’t skip every race Saturday and I can’t skip every Saturday church,” Gemeda said. “I can run the important meets that I have to run to get the times I need.”

During the week Gemeda follows a normal training schedule where he trains for the 3k, 5k and 10k events. However, only the 3k and 5k are offered during the indoor season.

“I like to do speed interval workouts with the people who run the mile and the 800,” Gemeda said. “Those are the fastest people, so they push me in that aspect, and then whenever we do longer stuff my distance teammates push me to work hard.”

At the Summit League Championships for indoor track,

Gemeda is motivated to win the 5k and place well in the 3k, he said.

After the indoor conference meet Gemeda will transition to the 10k for outdoor season, which Gemeda said he’s excited for.

“He loves to run and when he’s training hard he has the strength and aerobic capacity to run forever,” Fitzsimmons said.

“He will go on a 15 or 16 mile run and drop sub-six minute miles on a Sunday in the middle ten miles, which for some guys just running the route is enough. He is actually so talented he can go out there and decide how fast he wants to run.”

Fitzsimmons is excited for Gemeda to transition into the outdoor season because the coaching staff believes he has National Meet potential in the 10k.

“We’re wrapping up the indoor season but it’s always in the back of our mind to get enough volume to get us through the outdoor season,” Fitzsimmons said.

At practice Gemeda is someone that leads by example, Fitzsimmons said.

“He’s pretty quiet but he’s not afraid to lead,” Fitzsimmons said. “When we do particular workouts that involve a certain pace you’ll find him at the front setting the pace.”

The indoor track team will travel to the SDSU tune-up in Brookings Feb. 20. Gemeda’s next races will be during the Summit League Championships where he will race the 3k and 5k.

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Wednesday, February 17, 2021 THE VOLANTE

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CHEERLEADERS TO BUSINESS OWNERS: BOUGIE BERRIES LAUNCHES IN VERMILLION

Bennett Clary | The Volante

(left to right) Aliyah Jackson, Kayla Saleem and Asiah Jackson share their product at Anytime Fitness for Member Appreciation Day on Feb. 15.

Bennett Clary

Bennett.Clary@coyotes.usd.edu

Bougie Berries is a brand new strawberry decorating company in Vermillion owned by three USD cheerleaders that was launched last month.

Junior interior design major Asiah Jackson and junior pre-law major Aliyah Jackson are sisters who met sophomore media and journalism major Kayla Saleem through cheerleading a year ago.

Bougie Berries was not their original plan, as they had a different business idea, but it made sense to start around the holidays.

“We’ve been interested in starting a business,” Aliyah said. “We were actually working on a clothing line at the beginning and then the holidays came around.”

Bougie Berries started after Saleem saw a post on Pinterest and thought she and her friends could

create the products themselves.

Saleem also saw that there is no competition for a similar product in Vermillion.

Aliyah Jackson said that the group tries to keep their prices affordable because they cater to a diverse group of customers in Vermillion, Iowa and Nebraska. Bougie Berries sells five classic strawberries for $8, nine classic or customized strawberries for $15 and 12 classic or customized strawberries for $20.

Asiah Jackson said they order the strawberries from the Vermillion Hy-Vee and get their other supplies from baking stores in Sioux City.

Then the orders are made the same day of the scheduled pickup because the strawberries last longer.

“We’re really trying to make sure that we give the customer the best experience possible,” Aliyah Jackson said. “We really want Vermillion and the people extended to feel like we really did quality service for them.”

The group agreed that their shared personal goal is to provide service for bigger events such as weddings instead of small groups like they’re doing now, to show their customers that they can do any size event without any problems. The group also said they enjoy doing Bougie Berries because it allows them to reach out to people within the community.

“It’s fun to be able to connect with the community in a more personal way because we’re on the USD cheer team as well so we just scratch the surface of what the community is like,” Aliyah Jackson said.

Saleem said their products are for everyone without a strawberry or chocolate allergy. In the future, Bougie Berries hopes to provide vegan options as well. Customers can order through their Instagram, @bougie_berries_.

Bennett Clary | The Volante

All orders are decorated by hand and made the same day of pickup.

Professors celebrate their “Zanna, Don’t!” turns published books despite COVID social norms upside down on stage Chloe Fullenkamp

Chloe.Fullenkamp@coyotes.usd.edu

Submitted Photo | The Volante

(left to right) Sara Lampert, Ben Hagen and Marcella Remund shared their stories at an authors panel on Feb. 11

Bennett Clary

Bennett.Clary@coyotes.usd.edu

In 2020, three books were published by professors in the College of Arts and Sciences. Ben Hagen, Marcella Remund and Sara Lampert all discussed their new books with professor Zoli Filotas during an author panel. The panel was held online to celebrate the teacher’s publications.

All three teachers said they participated in the author panel to increase awareness for their books and the work of the College of Arts and Sciences.

“We like to support and celebrate those who achieve something like publishing a book,” Hagen said. “I think it’s nice to feel that we’re part of a community that’s interested in each other’s ideas.”

Lampert said this panel was a way for her to have a book release party while in a pandemic.

“Sometimes folks don’t really get as much exposure to what humanities research is and so I thought that there was an opportunity to kind of give people a sense of all the different ways that a little literary scholar, a poet (and) a historian are trying to increase our knowledge and our experience of our world,” Lampert said.

Lampert said getting to know about her colleagues’ work and share her own work was part of what drew her to the event. The topics of these books are all different, as Hagen focus on the teaching styles of D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Woolf, Remund’s poems explore Catholic saints and how everyday tasks can be spiritual and Lampert’s book talks about 19th century women entertainers and how they helped shape entertainment today.

Remund said students should understand that their instructors are always involved in learning new

things, even if it’s not mentioned in the classroom.

“Students are learning to be scholars and their instructors are still working on their own scholarship,” Remund said. “I think in some ways, it makes it more clear to students that we’re a community of learners, that there’s not this big gulf between students and faculty.”

The three books all required a lot of research, but Filotas said each book offers something different for readers to enjoy and take away.

“I would really recommend anyone at USD should watch it to get a sense of the exciting stuff going on here,” Filotas said. “I feel like it’d be cool for students who know their professors as teachers to get a sense of their professors as researchers and writers.”

The Humanities Authors Panel was held Feb. 11 at 4 p.m., but can still be watched at www.facebook. com/USDARTSANDSCIENCES/.

USD Theatre’s newest production aims to turn the audience’s world upside down in “Zanna, Don’t!” As a social satire, “Zanna, Don’t!” reverses social and gender norms to create a parallel universe where homosexuality is in and heterosexuality is out.

Director Oliver Mayes said the topsy-turvy world of “Zanna, Don’t!” will challenge audiences to think about how social norms affect their own life.

“In building the world of our production, we are using irony, aestheticism, theatricality and humor in our approach to develop a creative energy,” Mayes said. “(Those aspects) reflect a higher consciousness than our mainstream society, all in application to a 1950’s iconography and 2000’s pop culture love child.”

Mayes is a third-year M.F.A. directing candidate, a graduate

assistant in the Department of Theatre and choreographer for “Zanna, Don’t!”

The production surrounds a group of friends at Heartsville High School who find themselves combatting the heterophobia of their society with their local fairy matchmaker, Zanna.

“Through seeing this group thrive as the dominant presence in this parallel universe, and therefore struggling with their own prejudices, audiences will hopefully walk away questioning their own actions when they find themselves in the majority or with power,” Mayes said.

While finding his lead roles, Mayes said he searched for students who were not only talented, but unique and had the ability to deliver the satire of the show.

“The satirical content allows us as artists to be aggressive in our message by way of making audiences laugh while watching the show, but See ZANNA, Page B4

Submitted Photo | The Volante

The USD Theatre department’s upcoming production, Zanna, Don’t will be streamed online for all to enjoy from March 4-7.

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Summer Shakespeare Festival 2021 planned to be in-person

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South Dakota Shakespeare Festival returns to Vermillion with an in-person festival held at Prentis Park in June.

Maddi Kallsen

Maddilynn.Kallsen@coyotes.usd.edu

The South Dakota Shakespeare Festival (SDSF) will be held in person at Prentis Park this summer from June 17-20, unlike the remote festival that was streamed online last summer.

Artistic Director Chaya GordonBland said the mission of the SDSF is to engage, connect and inspire communities by exploring our shared human experiences through inclusive professional Shakespeare productions and theatre arts education.

“Theatre and Shakespeare have the power to bring people together, to lift people up and to create these shared, collective human

experiences — shared, collective explorations of what it means to be human in ways that are equitable and inclusive and inviting,” GordonBland said.

The festival will also include live music, food and drink vendors and other activities.

Oliver Mayes will be directing the Shakespeare play “Twelfth Night, or What You Will,” performed at the festival.

“There’s the performances, but there’s also food, there’s live music, it’s very festival-like, hence its name,” Mayes said. “The festival teaches the younger community about theatre performance and Shakespeare’s work and then it’s also offering live performances.”

Submitted Photo | The Volante

The South Dakota Shakespeare Festival is partnering with USD’s Theatre program to perform “Twelfth Night, Or What You Will.”

The theatre portion of the festival will be entirely free.

“The Shakespeare Festival is offering free theatre, but that’s not common throughout the country,” Mayes said. “I’m originally from Oregon and lived in L.A., then New York, then I found myself here for grad school, so I’ve seen and worked in many theatre conditions. It’s really beautiful they have committed to offering people free theatre because it’s really few and far between.”

Mayes and the board of directors are now in the process of hiring a cast.

“The director kind of guides what I would refer to as the world of the play. I make decisions on the aesthetic of the production, or what

I would call my concept, so what kind of world are we living in. My job starts with building what that world looks like,” Mayes said. “A lot of my work is also working with the actors; I coach the acting.”

A lot of work goes into making a play come to life and directing a production.

“My focus in working as the director is finding common ground with people so that each artist is getting fulfillment in the process.

We see their artistry come through,” Mayes said. “I would say my job is taking a bunch of different artistic visions and making them mesh together to be one whole cohesive piece.”

The SDSF partners with several

organizations including Outward Bound, Sesdac, The Sanford Care Center and the Minnehaha Juvenile Detention center to offer programing, workshops and education throughout the year, Gordan-Bland said.

SDSF also hosts theatre art workshops at the Vermillion Public library.

The festival will be socially distanced and require face coverings throughout the event.

“I have to figure out another new love language while directing that we can operate off of since we can’t physically connect,” Mayes said.

For more information go to sdshakespearefestival.org

Rachel Review: To All the Boys...Why?

Submitted Photo | The Volante

”Zanna, Don’t!” is a play that reverses social and gender norms in a world where homosexuality is the norm and heterosexuality is not.

ZANNA From Page B3

Press Photo | Netflix Rachel Thompson

Rachel.R.Thompson@coyotes.usd.edu

Just before Valentine’s Day, Netflix came out with their third installment of their infamous “To All the Boys” series, this time being named “To All the Boys: Always and Forever.”

The movie follows the same characters, mainly focused on Lara Jean Covey’s and Peter Kavinsky’s relationship and where it stands as they look toward their new lives at college.

Soon, turmoil starts as Lara Jean’s dreams start to go on a different route than planned.

This movie helps bring back the feel of the first installment in the franchise, especially in the areas where the second movie had lacked.

The chemistry between actors Lana Condor and Noah Centineo feels like it has been strengthened in this movie, which helps keep the

watchability of the movie up.

I personally loved Lana Condor’s acting. She’s always fun to see on screen and you can tell she enjoys playing the character Lara Jean with all the effort she put into the role. I hope she gets as many offers for new projects as her costar, Noah Centineo, who has received them from being in these movies while he’s only notable for being charming.

Since this is the third movie I will be discussing some plot details, as it is a very plot-driven movie with no other aspects to really pay attention to.

The movie starts out hopeful as you see Lara Jean with her family on vacation and you see her loving the possibilities of life, but sadly still confining herself to a life with her high school boyfriend.

Soon, she finds out her plans of going to the same

college as her boyfriend fall through and they will have to find another way to be together. She decides to go to a college an hour away and the problem is solved. This is where I hoped it would end.

This is basically how the whole movie went. A small issue would arise that would hurt their future and five minutes later it was fixed.

Each time, the issue was that Lara Jean was trying to set up a better possible future for herself while still having Peter with her. This should have been a sign for them to just break up and grow as adults before adding the stress of being in a long distance relationship.

But this solution didn’t become an option until the very end of the movie, after they had re-evaluated their plan about four times.

Also, the whole time, Peter was just trying to play the nice guy and make everything

work so they could stay together, but at the expense of Lara Jean.

To add to the illusion that this is more about being far away from Peter, the movie adds family subplots that are really just there to add to the run time of the movie. Lara Jean is truly just concerned about Peter Kavinsky.

Right when they finally make the right decision to break up, the movie, in the last five minutes, says this was all pointless. Of course the two are going to stay together. The movie, or Peter, just takes it all back and says, basically, ‘I do wanna keep you.’

I guess in the end it was still an easy watch. But what you should really look out for is the fact that the movie put Mount Rushmore in the wrong state.

deeply reflecting upon leaving the show,” Mayes said.

Currently, the show is in rehearsals as they prepare for their performances.

“Rehearsals are going very well,” Mayes said. “The rehearsal process has been fruitful in many ways because it is the time where we get to make discoveries, have discussions, work toward finalizing all of our onstage moments, and most of all, have fun.”

Junior Costume Design major Brittney Lewis said she has loved having creative liberty throughout the production.

“I have had so much creative liberty that has made the whole experience so uplifting and fulfilling,” Lewis said.

Lewis is the costume, hair and makeup designer for “Zanna, Don’t!” Lewis said she has also loved putting glitter on everything she can.

“My favorite part of the ‘Zanna, Don’t!’ process is that our entire production team is made up of students,” Lewis said. “It has created an amazing, collaborative and creative process.”

“Zanna, Don’t!” is following COVID-19 safety protocols, which means the actors are socially distanced and wear masks.

Mayes said distancing actors has been difficult, but it has brought new opportunities for staging and design.

Performances of “Zanna, Don’t!” will stream online at www. usd.edu/theatre/live from March 4-6 at 7:30 p.m. and March 7 at 2 p.m.

“Audiences can expect to see a world that is very different than ours, but one with more similarities than we might assume at first glance,” Mayes said. “They can also expect to laugh wildly while being thrilled by exciting vocals and innovative movement with rich splashes of color.”