2.24.21

The Volante

THE STUDENTS’ VOICE SINCE 1887

W E D N E S D AY, F E B R U A R Y 2 4 , 2 0 2 1

THE LIFE OF AN NFL QUARTERBACK: Q&A WITH CHRIS STREVELER

VOLANTEONLINE.COM

VERVE (B1)

Eats with Ashley brings African flavor to Vermillion Learn how junior Ashley Charlie started her own once-a-week food business, bringing flavor and culture to Vermillion on page B1.

SPORTS (B3)

Tanager boys basketball record historic season The 2020-2021 Tanagers have recorded the first 20-win season in Vermillion High School history. Learn more about them on page B3.

Vermillion Welcome Table continues to provide during COVID-19

File Photo | The Volante Bailey Zubke

Bailey.Zubke@coyotes.usd.edu

Former USD quarterback Chris Streveler found himself in Vermillion Friday afternoon to be a part of Unite for USD and talk with the Coyote football team ahead of its 2021 spring season.

Since graduating from USD in 2018, Streveler spent two seasons in the Canadian Football League, where he helped the Winnipeg Blue Bombers win a Grey Cup trophy in 2019. Following the Grey Cup win, Streveler was signed by the Arizona Cardinals, where he became the back-up for Heisman Trophy winner and 2019 NFL Rookie of the Year Kyler Murray.

Streveler made his first NFL appearance on Sept. 13, where he recorded one carry for three yards and a first down. He then came in for an injured Murray in week 17 against the Los Angeles Rams. Streveler threw for 105 yards, one touchdown and one interception in the 18-7 loss.

Streveler took time Friday to speak with The Volante about his time post-USD. Bailey Zubke: First question for you. What’s life been like for you since you graduated from USD a few years ago?

Chris Streveler: I mean, it’s been a heck of a journey, that’s for sure. I mean, just everything that’s happened, going up in Canada and getting the opportunity I got there, and then coming down to Arizona and getting the opportunity there, I mean it’s been a whirlwind. But it really has truly been a dream come true. You know, as a kid you grow up dreaming about getting the opportunity to play professional football, whether it be in Canada or in the NFL, and then to get to, you know, realize that dream has really been special for me.

BZ: What was it like for you going up into Canada and then winning that Grey Cup and then having the picture of you and the celebration going viral on Twitter, and what were all those moments like for you?

CS: Winning that Grey Cup, it’s really a feeling that I can’t really put into words because you put in so much time and effort and energy into that season and then to get to really realize that you have that goal come to fruition and accomplish it, it’s the best feeling in the world. And honestly, I was never planning to, you know, go viral or I never did that because of that but it was just really celebrating with my teammates. We had such a tight-knit locker room and we were really

just proud of what we had accomplished and we fought through a lot of different adversities that season. So just to get to celebrate with those guys, guys that you got to bond with and you love and care about, it just means the world.

BZ: What was that first call like with the Arizona Cardinals when they said ‘hey we’re interested in bringing you in for a workout, maybe bringing you in to be on the team.’

What were those first conversations like and then coming into those workouts?

CS: I don’t handle those conversations, it’s all through my agents. So I mean, teams get in touch with the agent and let you know they’re interested for a workout and then, from there, the process is, you go down for the workout.

Hopefully, you know, they tell you, we want to offer you a contract, which really doesn’t mean anything other than the fact that you’re going to get an opportunity to come in and compete through OTAs and camp. I had a couple of teams that I worked out for that were also interested, so you know, to get opportunities to play in the NFL, it was just unbelievable to even just imagine like okay, I’m about to sign with the Arizona Cardinals, like it’s wild to me.

Once you kind of come back down to Earth

Rachel Spinks

rachel.spinks@coyotes.usd.edu

Food programs in Vermillion had to find new ways to serve the community when COVID-19 hit its doors March of last year. The Welcome Table, who hosted weekly Monday meals for the community, switched to takeout boxes in May to continue providing meals for those in need.

John Lushbough, the head of the Vermillion Welcome Table, said they will continue with takeout for a while, but hopes that by late spring they might run at half-capacity to keep people safe.

The Welcome Table pairs with the Vermillion Food Pantry to provide a weekend backpack program and school pantry, which helps close the gap of food insecurities within students.

“Before COVID hit we were probably serving about 300 kids — about 150 at the school pantry every Friday and 150 with weekend backpacks. Then COVID hit,” Lushbough said.

“Schools closed down, so we had no access to the high school for about six weeks.”

Lushbough said an important part of the Welcome Table’s mission is making sure

See STREVELER, Page A3

See FOOD, Page A3

International Club celebrates culture, language through International Mother Language Day Miles Amende

Miles.Amende@coyotes.usd.edu

Jacob Forster | The Volante

The event allowed students to meet with international students, discuss languages and participate in a language trivia quiz for prizes

On Feb. 22, the USD International Club celebrated International Mother Language Day to recognize the many cultures of international students and bring visibility to a host of languages.

The club hosted an event in the Muenster University Center pit lounge from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Students had the opportunity to meet with international students, discuss mother languages and take place in a language trivia quiz for prizes.

Alice Lunardelli, president of the International Club, said the day is a great way for international students to both feel represented and have an outlet in which they can speak their language.

“I speak Italian, and it’s not a language that’s represented in the modern languages department… so it’s a way for people to be like, ‘oh my gosh, somebody speaks Italian,’ ‘oh, I can speak Italian on that day and someone will be interested in it,’” Lunardelli said. “It’s kind of like a bridge for those who want to learn more but they can’t, and for those who want to share and they can’t

always do so.”

Lunardelli said she speaks English most of the time, and said that sometimes she’ll talk to her parents and realize she’s falling out of practice in speaking her native language. Despite this, it is easy for her to stay connected to her culture because she is close friends with another Italian in Vermillion, though she said language is a part of culture that is hard to maintain unless an individual has someone to share it with.

“You can always keep your traditions or your habits or your cuisine, so it’s easier to cook spaghetti and feel like I’m at home, but it’s harder to maybe have a conversation in Italian with someone who not only speaks the language but also understands my values,” Lunardelli said.

Vice President of the International Club Sarah Lane said an important aspect of the event is the acquaintanceship students can develop by meeting international students. She said even if students don’t become close friends with international students they meet, they can still learn from them.

See LANGUAGE, Page A3

News

A2 Wednesday, February 24, 2021

The Volante I volanteonline.com

SENATOR THUNE CHATS WITH SGA PRESIDENT JIEL

Peyton Beyers I The Volante

South Dakota Senator John Thune talked with SGA President Abuk Jiel at Unite for USD last Thursday, February 18. Thune graduated from USD with his MBA in 1984 and is the current Senate Minority Whip.

CITY OF VERMILLION POLICE BLOTTER

5

domestic disputes

Feb. 14 Officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at a residence. No arrests were made.

Feb. 14 Officers were called to a residence in response to a report of a domestic disturbance. Officers interviewed the involved parties and one adult male was arrested for misdemeanor assault.

2

ownership and responsibility of a dog. No arrests were made.

Feb. 15 Officers responded to a report of theft from a local business.

The case is under investigation.

Feb. 15 Vermillion PD officers assisted the South Dakota Highway Patrol with an arrest involving multiple people for illegal drug use.

Feb. 14 Officers responded to a hit and run accident. Investigation resulted in the identification of the vehicle that had fled the scene. The driver was intoxicated and was arrested for a DUI and hit-and-run.

Feb. 15 Officers responded to a disturbance at a residence.

The tenants were arguing over

Feb. 16 Vermillion PD officers assisted the Clay County Sheriff with locating and recovering numerous stolen items from a series of thefts in the region.

Feb. 16 Caller reported the theft of mail. Investigation did not identify any suspect information.

>> Feb. 14 - Feb. 20

drivers cited Feb. 16 Vermillion Officers assisted Clay County Court Services Officers with a probation investigation.

Feb. 16 Officers responded to a reported dispute between persons. Officers located and spoke with both subjects who are legally married. Officers’ investigation found no criminal activity had occurred.

Feb. 17 An officer saw a vehicle being driven by an unlicensed driver and stopped the vehicle. The officer found a 3-year-old child sitting outside of a car seat unrestrained. The driver was cited.

Feb. 17 Officers responded to a report of a domestic dispute. Officers investigation found both

1

mail theft

subjects had outstanding warrants for their arrest. One subject was arrested as the other subject agreed to turn themselves in. No criminal activity outside the active warrants was identified.

with the suspect. The incident was resolved.

Feb. 18 Officers responded to a report of a physical fight occurring inside a residence. The investigation resulted in the arrest of a visitor to the home for assault.

Feb. 19 An officer stopped a vehicle for driving 74 mph in a 55 mph zone. The driver was cited.

Feb. 18 While on routine patrol an officer located a single vehicle crash. The single vehicle had flipped after striking a curb. Charges are pending.

Feb. 18 Officers received information of a dispute between persons involving snow in a parking lot. Officers located and spoke

Feb. 19 Caller reported the license plate had been stolen off their vehicle. Under investigation.

Feb. 20 Caller reported an intoxicated man had pushed his way into the caller’s residence and refused to leave. The caller pushed the man out of the residence. Officer located the man a short distance from the residence and he was arrested for trespassing.

Feb. 20 An officer stopped a vehicle for driving 45 mph in a 35 mph zone. The driver was cited.

SGA hosts Deputy Athletic Director at weekly meeting Maddi Kallsen

Maddilynn.Kallsen@coyotes.usd.edu

USD’s Deputy Athletic Director, Mike West, and USD’s Director of Athletic Marketing and Promotions, Jarren Duffy, spoke at this week’s SGA meeting.

Student attendance at athletic events is growing and is above average compared to other universities. Normally over 200 students attend the volleyball and basketball games.

“It’s been awesome to see the students section grow just over the past few years. We’ve really laid down the foundation of what the students’ section could become,” Duffy said.

“This says so much about the spirit on this campus, and I just, I’m honored to be here,” West said. “I just want to thank you. It’s a real honor, and I want you to know that this student body is as good as any state in the country. Every year we get more and more students at the gains. It’s turning into something that’s about to blow up in a great way.”

COVID-19 guidelines are still consistently being followed by students and people attending games. Various precautions are in place to create the safest environment possible for the campus, Duffy said.

Tickets are given out to students on Ticket Tuesdays, occurring in the MUC from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Wellness Wednesdays, in order to alleviate lines on game day.

At every game, there are signs and ushers guiding people where to sit. Seating is spaced Peyton Beyers I The Volante out in pods of twos, threes and fours.

Deputy Athletic Director, Mike West, spoke at SGA’s weekly meeting to talk about “The way our seating chart is designed, no one is sitting directly next to the pods, with attendance at athletic events compared to other universities. three open seats to your left, three open seats to your right. There won’t be anyone behind pods, either,” Duffy Said.

Jacob Forster The Athletic Department has discussed ideas of a spring D-Days, possibly called “Yote news editor Fest,” but there are no plans currently due to the high risk associated with large gatherings.

Maddi Kallsen The Athletic Department is continuing to create an environment where the student news assistant Volume 145, No. 19 athletes can grow as athletes and maintain a healthy mental state.

Chloe Fullenkamp February 24, 2021 news designer “Mental health is a really big deal… We are creatures of habit, and we want to have a www.volanteonline.com Rachel Pechous regular routine. We’ve taken our student athletes completely out of that as everybody’s verve editor Al Neuharth Media Center been taken out,” West said. “These athletes are so in tune with their routine, and then Bennett Clary 555 N. Dakota St. you take them out of routine, it becomes very problematic for all of us, in terms of mental verve assistant University of South Dakota health.”

Alle Anduaga Vermillion, SD 57069 verve designer Along with West and Duffy, Margaret Meierhenry, President of the Hammock Student Adviser Tyler Boyle Organization, presented to SGA, proposing a plan to implement hammock poles Kyle Miller sports editor throughout campus.

Sydney Johnson “One of my goals is to make USD a more hammock-accessible University, as well as Mission statement sports assistant being very inclusive,” Meierhenry said. “This is an organization that anyone can join an The Volante covers issues relevant and interesting to USD students. Faculty, Jessie Schneiderman staff and community members are welcome readers, but the newspaper is organization that anyone can have fun and feel included.” sports designer written and presented for a diverse community of students from the students’ Emma Daggett On April 24th, the Hammock Festival will take place. Meierhenry said there will be live point of view. The paper should provide a variety of information, entertainment opinion editor music, food trucks and appearances from the USD Music Department and spirit team. and educational opportunities for the readers. The Volante encourages everyone Lauren Johnson “I’ve been working with the city and the Chamber of Commerce to break the world to write letters to the editor. opinion designer record for most people hammocking at once,” Meierhenry said. “This is going to be a super The Volante wishes to be viewed by students as respectable, objective, Peyton Beyers accurate, fair and trustworthy. If you have comments, concerns or questions, exciting event where we will not only bring to the record for the most people hammocking, photo editor please contact The Volante at 677-5494.

Leah Dusterhoft it will be one of the first events that is able to accommodate for social distancing.”

The Volante is distributed Wednesdays during the academic year free visual director USD is continuing to work towards sustainability. Anna Moore, Campus Recycling of charge locally with the cost of $1 for each additional copy. One year Rachel Thompson Coordinator and sustainability graduate student, is helping lead these sustainable subscription rates are $40, which solely covers the mailing costs. visual assistant initiatives including ATLAS, the Green Initiative Fund, the Race to Zero Waste and the The Volante does not endorse, promote or encourage the purchase or sale Miles Amende of any production service advertised in this paper. Advertisements are the sole PLAN Plastic Free Action Summit. copy editor responsibility of the advertiser.

DeAndre Hill Senate Bill 70, sponsored by President Abuk Jiel, approving SGA’s budget for the fiscal The Volante disclaims all liability for any damage suffered as the result of any social media director year 22, was tabled for next week for the purpose of going through the Finance Committee. advertisement in this newspaper. The Volante reserves the right to Kaitlyn Kumm Senate Resolution 11, stating support of the revision and repeal of some tuition refuse any advertising. social media assistant rates, making them more equal, at institutions governed by The Board of Regents, was Cecilia Gillen Madilyn Sindelar Bailey Zubke introduced. The measure was passed as an emergency resolution on its first reading. advertising manager managing editor editor-in-chief

The Volante

News

A3 Wednesday, February 24, 2021

The Volante | volanteonline.com

New public library program helps children develop reading skills before starting school Allison Horkey

Allison.Horkey@coyotes.usd.edu

The Edith B. Siegrist Vermillion Public Library started a new program this year. “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” is a program designed to encourage exposing children to reading and books prior to kindergarten. The program has 21 kids enrolled, and they have collectively read 1388 books so far this year.

Amanda Raiche is the Youth Services Librarian at the Vermillion Public Library and organizes the programming for newborns through teenagers, like the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program.

“Its source is the 1000 Books Foundation, but they created the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program, and really what it is is a free program that any library can use,” Raiche said. “They have a lot of different resources and ideas for how you can run it, but it really is up to every library to create the program how they see fit.”

Raiche said parents can sign their child up for the program at any age before kindergarten and keep track of every book the child reads or is

read to, including repeated books and books read to them during the public library’s virtual story time.

Parents can register their child through the Vermillion Public Library website and log the books their child books at READsquared online or on a paper log. When a parent signs their child up they are given a free book bag and some early literacy learning tips for parents. For every 100 books read, the library provides the child with a sticker and the children can watch their progress on the “reading wall” at the library.

“At the end, once they reach 1000 books, they have completed the program, their name goes on a special spot of the wall, they get a certificate and a book,” Raiche said.

“And then, assuming parents allow it, we would share their picture and name on our social media and newsletter to celebrate that they’ve completed it.”

Marcy Drew is a lecturer at USD’s School of Education. Drew has a her doctorate in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in early childhood education. Drew said the goal of programs like the 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program is to

Submitted Photo | The Volante

“1000 Books Before Kindergarten” allows the library to continue to engage young readers without in-person programming. motivate children’s joy in reading.

“There’s all the research and we know how reading affects brain development and language development and how they become good readers and writers, but I really think that parents can just start with ‘Let’s have fun and read together,’ whether it’s two minutes or 10

minutes,” Drew said.

Raiche said the program has worked well this year because the library isn’t able to hold in-person programming due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“I knew it would be a fun thing to bring here,” Raiche said. “We’re trying to do other things for kids

and teens, like we’re trying to send home take home kits and I’m doing Virtual Storytime, but I thought this was a great time to incorporate this program.”

“The more you expose your kids to the world of books, the more they’re going to have that positive feeling about reading,” Drew said.

Department of Agriculture to merge with Department of Environment and Natural Resources Maddi Kallsen

Maddilynn.Kallsen@coyotes.usd.edu

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources are merging into one department.

“South Dakota will be the only state in the United States that doesn’t have its own designated environmental agency,” Ailee Johns, 2020 South Dakota state senate candidate for District 17, said.

Gov. Kristi Noem and South Dakota Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Hunter Roberts claim the purpose of merging the two departments is to save money.

It’s hard to say exactly how the environment is going to be affected and what bills are going to be passed through the new department,

STREVELER From Page A1

you realize, well, there’s a lot of work that needs to be done. I mean just signing in the NFL, like that’s not the ultimate goal right? So there’s a lot of work to be done but at that time I was really just excited about the opportunity, which at the end of the day is really all I can ask for.

BZ: There were other cool moments in your first year in the NFL; making it into a game early in the season, picking up a big first down, and then also coming in for Kyler Murray late in the season in a pivotal game and being able to score a touchdown. What was that moment like for you getting in the end zone and being able to play in the NFL? CS: Yeah, I mean just getting to play in the NFL, it’s exciting right? Like I said, it’s a childhood dream, but at the time, if you are going out there thinking “oh my gosh this is the NFL like this is my dream,” you’re not focused on what you have to focus on. So for me it’s really just about being focused and being locked in, and just worrying about being focused on what you have to accomplish at that time whatever your role is, whether it’s being on the sideline going in for a quarterback sneak, or stepping in for an injured Kyler, you

Johns said.

Along with the environment, there’s no way to tell how agriculture is going to be affected.

Local farms might be affected by this merger.

Heidi Heikes of the Heikes Farm said her farm doesn’t expect much of an effect from the merger.

The Heikes Family Farm specifically sells Community-supported agriculture (CSA) shares. These shares allow customers access to fresh, chemical-free produce.

Johns said she believes there’s a danger of one department’s interests overruling the other’s.

“If there’s no checks and balances between the two departments, who’s to say that one department isn’t just going to completely run wild over the other department,” Johns said.

“We come from a largely agricultural state. And so it’s pretty likely that it will come out in favor just want to be focused on what you have to accomplish and not try to be too overwhelmed with the whole situation, so that was really my mindset.

BZ: Going forward, what do you want to keep working on, what do you want to keep improving on to reach your ultimate goals?

CS: Well, I mean, I’m really excited about this offseason because it’s one of the first offseasons I’ve had where I’ve come out of the season completely healthy. So I’ve really gotten to jump into my offseason right away and doing some different things I want to work on.

You know, just incorporating some different things, working on the mental side of the game quite a bit. I think it’s really important, especially, you know, college and beyond. And then also doing different things like pilates and stuff like that. We’ve got a great strength coach there with the Cardinals who’s been doing it a really long time. I’m excited to be working with him. Got a lot of good things in the works, and like I said, it’s just about stacking day by day and trying to get better and, I think, if you do that and focus on that then things take care of it themselves the way they should.

BZ: I don’t have anything else for you, thank you.

CS: Yeah, thank you. Go Yotes.

of Ag over the environment.”

There are currently no definite budget proposals for how the state is going to distribute federal money between the two departments.

“Every state gets money from the EPA to focus on environmental things,” Johns said.

“If that money is then just funneled into a mix of Ag and environment, how will there be any checks as to where that money is being used?”

South Dakota currently has over $193.4 million in their reserve fund alone.

Johns said she worries the move along with other actions taken by the state government could remove South Dakotans’ ability to bring their concerns to regulatory bodies.

“Already, there was a Bill, 1028, that passed both the House and Senate and is now being sent to Governor Noem to be signed into law that removes participation from the people of South Dakota in water permit applications,”

Johns said. “Not being able to testify against the water board is huge.”

Johns said the merger could also affect tribal sovereignty.

“It messes with treaties that the federal government has with the tribes here in South Dakota as far as water rights,” Johns said.

Johns speculated that the first thing to be damaged will be waterways, which she said are already compromised. In Vermillion, this would involve the Missouri and Vermillion rivers.

Johns said South Dakotans who wish to voice their concerns should contact their elected representatives.

“If you are registered to vote in the State of South Dakota, contact your representative senators about the merger,” Johns said. “That’s all we can do.”

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

Former Coyote Chris Streveler, back-up quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, returned to Vermillion for Unite for USD

LANGUAGE From Page A1

Jacob Forster | The Volante

International Mother Language Day started in Bangladeshi as a holiday and has since been celebrated all over the world to celebrate the history of Bengali and East Pakistan, now modern-day Bangladesh.

“The more you interact with diverse people, you become… more open and understanding of people (that) speak in a certain way. For instance, I have a friend, and he’ll command me to do something… and it’s weird, you’re like ‘oh you can’t command me to do that,’ but… that’s how they even talk to their friends,” Lane said.

“So just even understanding small things like that.”

Shama Ali, international student advisor, said International Mother Language Day began as a Bangladeshi holiday. After Pakistan gained independence, Urdu became the country’s national language, despite the fact that the majority of Bengali in East Pakistan — which is modern-day Bangladesh — spoke the Bengali language.

After a series of protests, Bengali became a national language, and Feb. 21 became a holiday. Eventually, UNESCO adopted the day, and since 2000, International Mother Language Day has been celebrated worldwide.

“I think it’s a component of how we celebrate differences and show respect for other people who are different or speak a different language,” Ali said. “That’s why it’s so important — we want to preserve all languages.”

Ali said she wants students to develop skills for learning about other cultures and their languages. Language, she said, is part of global competency skills that students have to have to get along with people from other countries.

“If you want to be successful after you graduate and you want to get a job, whether it’s in the United States or you’re going abroad, you need to learn how to work with people who are different from yourself,” Ali said. “This is a skill to have, to be able to work with other people who speak in different languages and (are) from different cultures.”

Opinion

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

THE VOLANTE

VOLANTEONLINE.COM/OPINION

EDITORIAL

IT’S A NUMBERS GAME 54 The percentage of South Dakotans who voted for the legalization of recreational marijuana

68 The percentage of South Dakotans who voted to legalize marijuana for medical use.

Leah Dusterhoft I The Volante

Editorial: Amendment A should be a must-watch decision for South Dakotans During the 2020 election cycle, South Dakota voters had the ability to vote on South Dakota Constitutional Amendment A, legalizing recreational marijuana. Voters passed the amendment with 54.18% of the vote, or 225,260 yes votes to 190,477 no votes.

Recently, a South Dakota circuit judge ruled the amendment was unconstitutional, stating in the decision, “Amendment A is a revision as it has far-reaching effects on the basic nature of South Dakota’s governmental system.”

Stating a voter-passed amendment is unconstitutional is going against the voice of the people. South Dakota voters passed this amendment and were well aware of the grounds of the amendment.

Marijuana laws have been a hot-button issue nationally for years. Colorado and Washington, being two of the first states to legalize marijuana, sparked debate on how it would affect surrounding states, and the debate has only grown from there.

Amendment A and Initiated Measure 26 both pertained to marijuana laws in South Dakota. Initiated Measure 26 pertained to legalizing medical cannabis in South Dakota. South Dakota was looking to be the first U.S. state to legalize both medical and

recreational marijuana on the same ballot.

Almost 70% of the vote favored Initiated Measure 26 compared to the 54% for Amendment A, but a majority is a majority.

The group South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws, who placed the amendment on the ballot, is preparing to appeal the unconstitutional ruling to the state Supreme Court, according to the Argus Leader.

The Attorney General’s Office is constitutionally responsible to defend any voter-passed measures in courts. The office

“

At what point do South Dakota voters say enough is enough?

The representatives and courts are fighting against voter approved ballot measures.”

said in the Argus Leader that it was still reviewing the case. This case is an important one for South Dakotans.

South Dakota’s state legislature has struggled with passing what could be considered more-progressive laws, such as laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, and now there are battles on marijuana laws.

At what point do South Dakota voters say enough is enough? The representatives and courts are fighting against voter approved ballot measures. Making Amendment A unconstitutional can lead to many other constitutional questions.

South Dakotans should be watching this decision closely as it affects their individual freedoms with marijuana. This ruling could also bring up questions from voters on what their purpose in voting for these measures is if the state is just going to overturn them.

There are multiple reasons to follow this decision closely, whether one supports Amendment A or not.

Now we all have to wait and see what the state Supreme Court says, but this decision is something all South Dakotans should be watching with a close eye.

10 The percentage of arrests made in South Dakota were for possession of marijuana in 2018.

4 The number of states who legalized recreational use of marijuana in November 2020.

110 The millions of Americans who live in a state that has legalized recreational marijuana.

From www.usnews.com and www.argusleader.com

Find more opinions on our website. volanteonline.com

Follow us on Twitter @VolanteOpinion Polls • Overheards • Columns

The Volante

WEEKLY POLL:

THE STUDENTS’ VOICE SINCE 1887

How are you enjoying the warm weather this week?

Going for a walk Having a bonfire

EDITORIAL BOARD Bailey Zubke, editor-in-chief

Tyler Boyle, sports editor

Madilyn Sindelar, managing editor

Rachel Pechous, verve editor Emma Daggett, opinion editor

54.5% 0%

Doing Homework

18.2%

People go outside?

27.3% *Out of 11 voters

Let us hear your voice by voting in @VolanteOpinion weekly polls on Twitter.

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.

Submissions must include the author’s name, address, telephone number, year in school and major or job title. Letters must be exclusively for The Volante.

We will not publish anonymous letters.

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.

Letters must be typed and fewer than 300 words.

Opinion Getting rid of your phone addiction

The Volante I volanteonline.com

IZZY BAKER is a first-year majoring in business management.

All my college friends have screen times of over five hours and are frequent Snapchat and TikTok users, and although the social media apps people frequent might vary, usually the screen time minimum doesn’t.

People want to be connected with one another, but how much social media is too much?

In recent generations there has been a drastic increase of technology usage. And, especially for college students, being on one’s phone so much leads to

procrastination and a very real phone addiction. I don’t know a single person who could genuinely go more than two days without their phone.

But how can you fix a problem that has been so engraved in your brain? Well, the base problem is most people are not looking to change this issue.

Everyone is trying to stay connected through socials and they feel disconnected and have a fear of missing out when they cannot frequently check social media.

However, there are small changes to apply to daily life and will dramatically decrease screen time and help students procrastinate less and be more present.

One of the first steps is as simple as being

aware of your own screen time and setting personal goals to only be on your phone for so many hours of the day. A common way to enforce this is to set up screen time limits so your social medias and apps of choice turn off after you have been on them too long.

However, with this in particular, one really has to choose to make the change because at first, I have to admit, I simply continued to push back and turn off my screen limits because I got bored.

It may even be something as little as not going on your phone when you wake up and before you go to sleep to begin to decrease the attachments and dependencies most people place on their phones.

A more intense method I have also implemented was turning off the color on my phone. Color entices and entertains people, thus in its absence whatever you are trying to look at or watch becomes a lot less interesting.

And lastly, the most effective method I have found to get the screen time down to an all time minimum is to delete all social media from your phone. I have done this plenty of times and it has always given me a relaxed, comforting reprieve from the stress social media can put upon people.

But in the end, it’s all up to what you are willing to commit to, and if you are open to finding new forms of entertainment beyond technology.

What I hope my next three years look like SOPHIE SWANSON is a junior majoring in English and Special Education.

Sometimes when I’m sitting around contemplating life, I truly am shocked of how far I’ve gotten at USD. I fully expected to either drop out, fail all of my classes, or change my major fifty times. But I only changed it once. TAKE THAT WORLD! Now I’m about a year or so from graduation and have somehow passed all my classes (so far) while working two jobs and having a good group of friends. USD has been my home for three years, and while I’m not one to be open to change, I’ve begun looking forward to the possibilities in store for me.

Here are some things I’m looking

forward to.

My vaccine. I promise you when I get those two doses I will feel like Superman, maybe I’ll even try and jump off Old Main. This past year or so has taken something from everyone, and getting a needle stabbed into my arm will almost be as satisfying as crossing a nonexistent finish line.

My last Dakota Days. My first two years at USD, I worked over BOTH D-Days. I kept telling myself that I’ll make extra money and then celebrate my last two D-Days with style. But now I feel a strong sense of urgency to have fun on this specific week, and I mean it this time.

Moving to a new city. I grew up in Nebraska, go to school in South Dakota, but my ultimate goal is to teach in Minnesota. Why? Don’t ask me. I chose that place as my go-to after graduation and have fallen in

love with the state.

Getting my first adult job. I’ve had multiple jobs in my lifetime, from being a mascot for a minor league baseball team, to working at Victoria’s Secret, to now being a student ambassador for USD and a sales associate at Charlie’s Bookstore and Fan Shop. However, I’m so excited to have my own classroom one day and have my students roast my teacher fits.

And last but not least, traveling.

I have so many places I want to see and things I want to do, whether it be alone or with friends and family.

I received my passport in the mail right when the coronavirus hit the U.S. and now am patiently awaiting the day when I can go on adventures all over the world.

Until then, I will patiently continue adding to my bucket list and dreamily planning unrealistic vacations with my friends.

Want to make your voice heard?

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

OVERHEARDS

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

“It’s Zanna Don’t, not Xanax Don’t” — Neuharth

“I’ve been downtown...to go to the post office.”

— Neuharth

“...from that point forward, there was always glitter on my ass.”

— Yale Street

“You can eat beaver?!”

— Cafe Brule

“Merging the two...cows.”

— Freedom Forum

“Watch out for my butt, I just laughed it off.”

— Cafe Brule

“Nothing is better than 2015 Jason Derulo.”

— SCSC

“Sober me needs a break, I tag out.”

— Beede 3

“I could totally be a club or event planner. I know how to pole dance.”

— The MUC

“Aw...He looks like a Republican.”

— Freedom Forum

“Oh, can you hear my stomach growling in there?”

“No, I can just hear you whining.”

— The MUC

“And then he attacked my dog for an hour.”

— Cafe Brule

“Let it be known that the power of boners will always save you.”

— Yale Street

Wednesday, February 24, 2021 A5

Read more student opinions on our website. volanteonline.com

Two plus two equals tears EMMA DAGGETT is a first-year majoring in English.

Math sucks. I don’t like it at all. A few weeks ago, someone said, “You’re not very good at math, are you?” All I could think to say was, “Hmm, what gave me away? The fact I am an English major, or that I need my fingers to do simple addition?”

I couldn’t even go to my parents for help because they did not understand how our teachers taught us how to problem-solve. It felt like the scene from “Incredibles 2” where the dad said, “I don’t know that way, why would they change math? Math is math!” A lot of times I just ended up saying I understood what my parents told me then walked away texting my friends for the answers.

I used to think I was pretty good at math; I was able to do all the processes and PEMDAS. Then high school hit me with the quadratic formula, imaginary numbers and polynomials. I barely passed college algebra and I was very thankful I would never have to take another math class.

Math is a very hard class to take and to teach. With math, there is a right answer and a wrong answer. Not to

mention, most schools are concerned about learning quickly, taking a test, getting a good grade and moving to the next thing. If a few students are having trouble with a topic, but the majority understands, the class moves on. When you don’t understand something, it’s hard to move on to a harder, more complicated version of the problem.

After all, the teachers did say something about having a firm foundation to build off of.

I don’t like math. I don’t think the math classes I had to take in high school prepared me for what I intended to do in college. I think it would have been better if I were able to take simpler classes to teach me how to do my taxes.

Those classes would have been worth more to me.

At this point, I am intimidated by math and hope to never come across it again. I feel like a lot of people have similar thoughts. I think a lot of people lose interest in math. It’s hard to stick with something difficult that you don’t understand.

I suppose learning about writing and literature isn’t at the top of everyone’s career plans, but people who are good at math and are going into some sort of mathematical career impress me. How you can understand all the graphs and imaginary numbers is impressive.

News

A6 Wednesday, February 24, 2021

The Volante | volanteonline.com

Vermillion Historic Preservation Commission seeks new member Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

Jacob Forster | The Volante

The commission is working to designate a Vermillion neighborhood as a historic district.

The Vermillion Historic Preservation Commission, established by the Vermillion City Council in June of 2018 to educate the community on historic preservation and to protect historical buildings and properties, is seeking to fill a vacancy created by a member’s retirement. Johnny Beyers, the retiring member, is working out of town and is anticipating moving in the future.

Susan Gray, a member of the commission, said candidates for the commission can apply on the city website. Applications are forwarded by the city manager to the council for review. The council then chooses a candidate to nominate and confirm.

The commission requires four of its seven members to be property owners in one of the city’s historic districts. Gray said that makes finding a replacement member more challenging, since Beyers was one of the four property owners on the commission.

“There are currently only three of us left who are property owners in one of the districts,” Gray said. “So that’s absolutely mandatory right now, at this point, for this one position to have somebody who fits that description.”

Gray said the commission would also like to consider other factors, such as additional representation or diversity on the board.

“Such as Native American, you know, someone who can broaden our perspective on what is important, historically, to be preserved,”

Gray said.

The commission’s largest current project is completing an application for a new historic district bordered by East Main Street, the Forest Avenue district, the bluff and University Street.

The application process goes through the National Parks Service.

“There has to be a professional application done,” Gray said. “So we got the grant money, and we’re currently paying someone who’s skilled doing this.”

Gray said the commission is trying to get students more involved in local history and preserving the university district neighborhood.

“It’s important that the university community know about the commission and just our mission to help protect our history,” Gray said.

John Prescott, Vermillion City Manager, said a major challenge in finding suitable applicants is being able to create awareness of the vacancy.

“Sometimes we have a large response, other times we don’t,” Prescott said in an email interview with The Volante.

Gray said that while the posting goes up on the city website, most Vermillion residents don’t check the website regularly.

“It may come out in the paper, but the paper only comes out once a week,” Gray said. “Current commission members are trying to reach out to the community to let them know there is an opening, and to encourage people to apply for it.”

Interested candidates can apply for the position via a form on the city website.

Rachel Thompson | The Volante

FOOD From Page A1

everyone has access to quality food, but when COVID-19 forced schools to close, The Welcome Table lost its ability to aid students.

“But the biggest change for the welcome table is that we don’t see people anymore,” Lushbough said.

In previous years, the Welcome Table heavily partnered with USD student organizations, which Lushbough said sponsored about 90% of meals served over the past four to five years.

“USD students were such a big part of the Welcome Table and it’s really hard not having the students over,” Lushbough said. “We didn’t know what to do when students went home and then didn’t come back.”

When building the Vermillion Welcome Table, Lushbough said their main goal was to create a place for people to come together to form a community no matter their differences.

“We never thought of it as a soup kitchen, we thought of it as a place for people to come together… we didn’t care who it was,” Lushbough said. “The Welcome Table has afforded me a community. In fact, I probably have more of a diverse student contact with the Welcome Table than I did when I taught at USD.” Lushbough said that thanks to the Vermillion community, they have been serving as much food as they have ever been.

“We are trying to keep everyone safe, but we are in need of the pandemic to be over,” Lushbough said.

Every week. the Welcome Table discusses problems and concerns in hopes of reopening their doors.

“It’s just frustrating right now because none of it works without the volunteers. I hope we get back to normal so that we can get back together,” Lushbough said.

With the goal to reopen its doors to the public in late spring, the Vermillion Welcome Table continues to aid the local community despite the challenges faced this past year.

University Libraries calls for submissions for altered book exhibit

Submitted Photo | The Volante

“Divided Lexicon,” a piece by artist Adele Crawford, was featured in 2019’s Altered Book Exhibition.

Jacob Forster

Jacob.R.Forster@coyotes.usd.edu

Jacob Forster | The Volante

The Welcome Table has been providing food to Vermillion residents through takeout boxes since May.

USD’s University Libraries is seeking entries for their sixth international altered book exhibition, “Bound and Unbound VI: Altered Book Exhibition,” scheduled for display from Aug. 23, 2021 to Jan. 3, 2022. The exhibit involves mixed media artwork which changes a book from its original form by altering its state or meaning. Books from any source utilizing any medium are eligible.

Danielle Loftus, chair of the art and exhibit committee at the University Libraries, said the library considers their art exhibits to be educational opportunities.

“On one hand, it’s an art exhibit,” Loftus said. “But on the other hand, it helps our students or staff or faculty or our community, people understand more about what is art, and get exposure to the people that are entering their works.”

Sarah Hanson-Pareek, the curator of digital projects at the University Libraries, said the original exhibit in

2009 came from an idea she had when the arts and events committee first started.

“Because when we started, we were trying to be more focused on art events in the library,” Hanson-Pareek said. “And so that year, it wasn’t juried yet, and it wasn’t international, we just started out very local.

This year’s altered book exhibit competition will be juried by Melissa Stern, an artist, professor and journalist living in New York City who has worked in sculpture, photography and drawing. Stern was the lead art critic for New York Press and City Arts from 2006 to 2014.

On average, the exhibit receives 95 entries from 52 artists, which are curated by a jury due to limitations including the sizes of the cases on the library’s second floor which limit the number of pieces that can fit.

Past entries have included sculptures, paintings, collages, sewn pieces and pieces incorporating the elements.

“Burning is popular, leaving outside,” Hanson-Pareek said. “Every year just seems to be, I don’t know,

every year seems to be more... It just seems like every show is stronger and stronger.”

Two years ago, the exhibition received its first video entry, which was displayed by a repeating .mp4 file on an iMac. Hanson-Pareek said she hopes to receive more alternative and digital media entries this year.

Loftus said the exhibit receives entries from all kinds of Vermillion community members.

“They were just about anybody, everybody that likes art,” Loftus said.

“And some people, some are crafters.

Some people just like to like books.”

Hanson-Pareek said she’s intrigued by how artists will interpret the current state of the world in their submissions.

“I’m interested to see how COVID has impacted artists making work. The political climate,” Hanson-Pareek said.

“I guess, global warming, we have a lot of things going on with climate change right now.”

Artists may submit up to three entries through March 5. There is no fee to enter the exhibition. Those wishing to submit can do so online.

Verve

Wednesday, February 24, 2021 THE VOLANTE

VOLANTEONLINE.COM/VERVE

EATS WITH ASHLEY BRINGS AFRICAN FOOD TO VERMILLION Bennett Clary

Bennett.Clary@coyotes.usd.edu

Submitted Photo | The Volante

Junior Ashley Charlie has introduced her own business that focuses on handmade meals of different cultures.

Beginning in January, a USD student used her personal cultural knowledge to bring diverse eating options to the Vermillion community once a week.

Junior exercise science major, Ashley Charlie, started Eats with Ashley when she noticed that there was a lack of cultural foods in Vermillion.

When Charlie came to USD, she made connections within the Center for Diversity and Community.

Charlie was a part of the executive board and would cook dishes for certain events — this also expanded to cooking for her friends.

“I met wonderful people where we hosted various cultural events and one so happened to be for African Student Association and I’m African,” Charlie said. “So going to these events we understood the importance of our cultural dishes because that’s what really makes us African, and seeing how people enjoyed it and loved it.”

Orders can be placed from Monday to Wednesday weekly.

Charlie said she goes shopping Wednesday night to get all the ingredients. She then sanitizes her workspace and prepares any part of the meal she can — like dicing

peppers — and putting them in the fridge for Thursday morning.

“It’s teaching me things like I can’t cook every single thing this world has to offer, but it’s definitely testing my skills,” Charlie said.

USD has students from many different backgrounds, and Charlie said she understands that students sometimes just want to go out and buy a meal to bring home instead of having to cook it themselves.

“Having to come from other places like states or countries and come here and kind of have to adapt to the foods that are at Walmart or around town, sometimes it may not be as fulfilling as a mother’s cooking, so I felt like it was a need that wasn’t really spoken about,” Charlie said.

Charlie said she creates these dishes to make people happy because it gives her a sense of purpose at USD and in Vermillion and makes her feel like she’s doing something good.

“I’ve never really thought about it so much for myself, but I feel like all in all like it’s really just making people happy and just putting smiles on their faces,” Charlie said.

Eats with Ashley can be found on Instagram @eats.withashley and customers can place their order through the link in the bio. Full platters are $12 each. https://www. instagram.com/eats.withashley/

PAVE continues to empower and inform students in the spring semester Alle Anduaga

Alle.Anduaga@coyotes.usd.edu

Promoting Awareness Victim Empowerment (PAVE) is an organization on campus at USD that works together to help empower sexual violence victims and spread awareness.

PAVE was founded in Sept. 2017.

PAVE president and double major in English and Psychology Taylor Hagen said PAVE was created to provide a sanctuary on campus for students to go to for resources and consent education.

PAVE is a student led organization that was inspired by I CARE, which is a faculty led organization at USD that aims to prevent campus sexual assault through advocacy and education.

Due to COVID-19, PAVE was unable to carry out their plans for the Spring 2020 semester. However, Hagen said PAVE has been picking up where they left off with events planned, tabling with informative resources and themed meetings for each month.

In January, PAVE focused on National Stalking Awareness and had infographic resources available at their Zoom meeting.

“We like to open the conversation to anybody who has anything they want to say about it. When it comes to regard of like, how would you, as people on campus want to see resources handed out, and handled by the university and by us,” Hagen said.

Currently, PAVE has been focusing on men and LGBTQ+ engagement for the month of February.

“We want to have more inclusivity with men, LGBTQ+ and anyone else because it’s not just a woman’s issue,” Hagen said.

In March, PAVE will be doing spring break safety focusing on alcohol education and what consent it.

“We like to do our ‘Consent Is’ project that has words of what consent means to different people,” Hagen said. “It can be ‘your consent is sexy’, ‘consent is ongoing’, ‘consent is needed.’”

Sexual Assault Awareness month is in April and PAVE plans to educate people through their social media accounts due to COVID-19. PAVE also plans to have self-defense and de-stress yoga classes available through the Wellness Center.

“When it comes to sexual assault awareness is just keeping the conversation alive so that it’s normalized and people don’t feel so alone and hiding behind the silence,” Hagen said.

Vice president of PAVE and junior elementary education major Clare Lorenzen said PAVE will be doing a Denim Day on April 28 where people can write and draw their stories on denim clothing.

Denim Day signifies people being able to wear what they want and showing that the certain clothes someone has on doesn’t determine that they “must’ve wanted it,” Hagen said.

Submitted Photo | The Volante

PAVE pushes to provide several opportunities for members of the USD community to learn about their organization.

“PAVE is for everybody.

Everybody’s activism is their own way of activism,” Lorenzen said. “The minute you walk through, whether it’s virtual doors of a Zoom meeting or the real doors of a meeting you become part of the family.”

Students can get involved by reposting stories and reading resources posted by PAVE’s social media accounts, particularly their Instagram.

Due to COVID-19, PAVE holds their meetings every first Thursday

of the month via Zoom at 8 p.m.

Those

interested

in

getting

involved can message PAVE via Instagram @pave_usd_ or Facebook @PAVEUSD for the Zoom link.

AWOL offers alternative spring break to students

AWOL will be offering two options for alternative breaks including one dedicated to the environment and the issues of domestic abuse.

Sydney Johnson

Sydney.G.Johnson@coyotes.usd.edu

Over spring break this year, the Alternative Week of Off-Campus Learning (AWOL) is offering an alternative break that combines the social issues of domestic abuse and the environment.

Site leader Brianna Zimmer said the newly combined trip will be partnering with local organizations

and community partners in the Sioux Falls, Yankton and Vermillion areas.

“I’d say that this is an experience that you’re not really going to get anywhere else,” Zimmer said. “It’s a really affordable way for you to experience a new place within the United States and get that hands-on volunteering experience.”

With the threat of COVID-19, parts of the alternative break will be

held virtually. Other aspects of the break include making tie blankets for domestic abuse shelters.

In order to partake in the spring break alternative trip, there is a $125 fee.

Rachel Sestak, the creative director for AWOL, encourages everyone to take advantage of the opportunities and learning experiences that AWOL offers. Along with gaining an understanding

of social issues in communities around the United States, Sestak said students also gain other lifelong benefits.

“You meet such a great group of people when you’re in AWOL,” Sestak said. “When you go on these alternative breaks you get to collaborate with your 12 people throughout the week and they become some of your best friends.”

Another site leader, Christina

Submitted Photo | The Volante Lusk, said to get involved in the alternative breaks because they leave a big impact on students’ lives.

Lusk, Zimmer and Sestak all remember one break they went on that left the biggest impression on them.

For Lusk, it was her trip to Puerto Rico where she built adobe houses and helped with maintenance on a See AWOL, Page B2

Verve

B2 Wednesday, February 24, 2021

The Volante | volanteonline.com

Symphonic Band performs music with a message

Submitted Photo | The Volante

The USD Symphonic Band performs their annual February concert in Aalfs Auditorium inside Slagle Hall.

Bennett Clary

Bennett.Clary@coyotes.usd.edu

On Thursday, Feb. 25, the Symphonic Band will perform their annual February concert in recognition of Black History Month.

Director of Bands and conductor of the Symphonic Band John LaCognata said the concert is an acknowledgment to conversations that need to be had and progress that needs to be made.

“It’s really just an opportunity to musically acknowledge the race issues that we’re dealing with in our country,” LaCognata said. “Music has a way to kind of deal with subjects in a non-threatening way.”

LaCognata said the band has taken safety precautions against COVID-19 by using masks when they’re not playing, limiting their performance time and distancing the audience from the band.

Junior music education major Alicia Turnquist plays the flute in Symphonic Band. Turnquist said this performance may be their best one so far.

“We have grown as an ensemble together,” Turnquist said. “I think individually our musicianship has gotten better and we work together more. We’ve had a chance to kind of dive deeper into this music, beyond the surface level of just notes and rhythms.”

LaCognata said that each piece has its own distinctive sound but collectively they make a great program. He said this concert shows students that the band is not only making music, but the music has a bigger message. Sophomore psychology major Kelsey Derrick plays the tuba and said music can help listeners feel and relate to all the current events happening.

“When you’re playing a concert, you don’t really learn about the pieces you’re playing or the composers,” Derrick said.

“For this concert I learned so much about the pieces and the composers. I’ve also never played a piece that tells us a specific story so that’s really fun.”

With the events surrounding social injustice, Turnquist said this is how the band is trying to show the audience that they’re trying to make a difference and make things better at USD. “I just hope it’s well-received by everyone in the audience and that it sparks some thought,” LaCognata said.

“I don’t know that it needs to spark immediate action — it needs to kind of get us all to pause and reflect and kind of question where we are and think about how we can move forward and make it better.”

Turnquist said that it can be easy to not see what other colleges are doing on campus and she wants people to have a chance to see what they are putting together because of the power behind

Submitted Photo | The Volante

This year’s Symphonic concert was dedicated to recognize Black History Month. the music.

“Music can deliver a message without words, without just outwardly telling you what you’re supposed to take away,” Derrick said.

“I think people are going to take away a bunch of different things from this concert — I just want them to take away that music can

be powerful and can shed a light on modern injustices and problems and stuff that are happening.”

The concert will be held in Aalfs Auditorium in Slagle Hall on Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

The performance will also be livestreamed at https://www. usd.edu/music/live.

Rachel Review: Must watch docuseries

Press Photo | Netflix Rachel Thompson

Rachel.R.Thompson@coyotes.usd.edu

On Feb. 17 Netflix released a new docuseries hosted by Will Smith called “Amend: The Fight for America,” highlighting the long history of the amendment that gave marginalized groups the rights they have today.

The series follows the establishment of the 14th Amendment and how, throughout history, it has been used to better our society and every person who lives in America — except for white men, that was already taken care of.

The series has numerous historians and first-person witnesses and activists talking about their

experiences and what truly took place in getting America to its standard of rights today.

Along with these historians, many actors and actresses voice roles of prominent figures in history. For example, Mahershala Ali recounted some famous lines and speeches by Fredrick Douglass, and Pedro Pascal voiced lines from Abraham Lincoln.

When the celebrities spoke on-screen they chose to give the speaker of the words the spotlight and didn’t highlight any of the celebrities’ names. Even looking through the credits I could not find the participating actors’ or actresses’ names.

The whole series is six episodes

long with each being just under an hour in length. At the end of watching even one episode you feel as if you have learned more than you ever were taught in school. Repeatedly, while watching this I wanted to just make this mandatory watching for high schoolers.

I would suggest not watching each episode back to back as it can become a lot of information to consume in one sitting. I would suggest taking a break in between episodes to help digest all the information you just learned.

Even though it’s a lot of information to handle, the production team does everything they can to keep you paying

Press Photo | Netflix

attention and keep the information understandable and retainable for everyone.

There are impressive graphics and animations throughout the series to help us better visualize the scenes that took place.

Along with graphics, the actors and actresses helped keep me intrigued. Instead of seeing simple images and listening to the important figures’ speeches, numerous celebrities voiced and acted the roles to help bring attention to the important issues.

Each episode focuses on a different group of people that the 14th Amendment either helped or didn’t help with their rights as

citizens.

The series starts off with the whole trouble that went into making the 14th Amendment, especially how long it took for Abraham Lincoln to agree to freeing slaves.

The one history aspect that I learned while watching this series is the side of Lincoln, or I guess the true side that I was never taught — how freeing slaves wasn’t his true goal. His true goal is not being the president who lost half the country.

The series continues to show how the 14th Amendment was used in practically every civil rights movement, from women’s rights to LGBTQ+ rights to immigrants, and truly a person’s right in America.

AWOL From Page B1

AWOL offers two opinions for students, staff and faculty to get involved over this Spring break.

Sumbitted Photo | The Volante

farm. She said this was her favorite trip because she was able to see a whole different culture of the United States.

When Zimmer went on a break to New Orleans, she got to experience what life was like for people from a big city. As a South Dakota native, Zimmer hadn’t been able to interact and hear stories from people from other states and cities until traveling to New Orleans on an AWOL break.

In Denver, Sestak learned about drug abuse and homelessness. By going on this trip, Sestak was able to put a face to the social issue instead of seeing it as some abstract concept.

While over spring break, AWOL is offering an alternative break that explores the social issues of domestic abuse and the environment. They are also offering two summer trips that will delve into the topics of rural resilience and conservation.

“I would encourage anybody to be a part of AWOL because when will be the next time you are going to have the opportunity to do a trip like this?”

Lusk said.

Sports

Wednesday, February 24, 2021 THE VOLANTE

VOLANTEONLINE.COM/SPORTS

HISTORIC SEASON CARRIES ON FOR TANAGER BOYS BASKETBALL

The 2020-2021 Vermillion Tanager High School boys basketball team recorded the first 20-win season in the school’s history this year.

Bailey Zubke

Bailey.Zubke@coyotes.usd.edu

A record 19 consecutive wins has been seen twice in Vermillion High School boys basketball history before this season, but the 2020-21 team set out to top that mark Monday night.

In the regular season finale, the Tanagers hosted Canton to go for a school record 20th consecutive victory and complete the second undefeated season in school history.

“So tonight, not only to go undefeated but also to have set the new school record with 20 consecutive wins, it’s just nice for our group,” Vermillion boys basketball coach Jay Drake said.

The Tanagers picked up the win in decisive fashion, defeating Canton 82-36, finishing the regular season 20-0 and winning the Dakota XII Conference title with a 10-0 record. Vermillion senior Dillion Gestring summarized the feeling with the simple phrase, “really good.”

Monday’s season finale was also the first game of the season that junior Charlie Ward dressed for. Ward injured his knee toward the end of the football season and has been recovering ever since. Drake said the team asked Ward to dress for the

season finale, and Ward was able to get in for the final minute of the blowout and hit a three-pointer.

“That’s the one thing with the season like this: you feel bad for a kid like him,” Drake said. “He’s been a part of everything, but he would have been a huge factor and a huge part of what we did this year. And so to have him come in to knock down a shot and be a part of this, today it was great.”

Gestring and the Tanagers were a win away from making it to the State tournament last season, losing in SoDak16. Since the loss, the Tanagers did something only one team in school history had done, and one other school in the state did this season (Castlewood girls).

“We just got, and it sounds so cliche, but just a great group of kids,” Drake said. “They buy into everything we’ve said as a coaching staff. They play extremely hard, and it’s not real fancy, you know. We look at our group sometimes, and I think people look out there and they say hey this team is undefeated?”

Drake said what has made this team different from past Tanager teams that came up just short of the state tournament is that this team hasn’t spent the time to acknowledge how close they were.

Bailey Zubke | The Volante

“We’ve had some real good teams for the last eight, nine years and we’ve just come up just short,” Drake said. “And, you know, we probably talked about it too much with our past teams. We really haven’t talked a lot about the state tournament this year. A lot of it because I think the guys just know. We know what’s there, it’s like that elephant in the corner. It’s our ultimate goal, obviously.”

Gestring said the team was a bit scared last season playing in the SoDak16, but they are working harder to prevent a repeat of last season. “(We) just work that much harder and be prepared this time,” Gestring said. “I think last time we were all a little scared going into it.”

Gestring said the loss has given the team more motivation to make it one step further.

The Tanagers now prepare to play in Regions, where Vermillion hopes to hold on to the number one seed in Region 4A. The Tanagers currently hold the top spot in seed points with 46.200, with Dakota Valley close behind at a 17-2 record and 46.000 seed points. Dakota Valley finishes its season at home against Lennox Feb. 26.

Training in it so they can play in it: Soccer prepares for unique season Madilyn Sindelar

Madilyn.Sindelar@coyotes.usd.edu

Coming off a 1-1 weekend series in Kansas City, the Coyote soccer team aims to push through unprecedented challenges during its spring Summit League season.

After playing in the snow and sub-freezing temperatures against Kansas City the women walked away with a 3-2 loss and a 5-0 shutout win. The difference in the two games was playing their best the entire 90 minutes.

“We made big mistakes that didn’t allow us to win the game,” head coach Michael Thomas said. “I think some of that is not being on the field for a long time. Kansas City got to play in the opening weekend of the conference and I think that was a significant advantage for them.”

Paying attention to the smaller details and remaining focused inside the penalties created more chances for the Coyotes in game two.

“We stressed that we were not going to make huge changes

to who we are, we were just going to double down on it and try to iron out the problems,” Thomas said.

The Coyotes have not only had to adapt to game-time challenges but also to practice and weather challenges that come with playing soccer in South Dakota in February. The team battles for space inside the DakotaDome with track, football, softball, golf and tennis.

“I appreciate that they don’t complain, they just get to know the world and we get a little bit out of it every day no matter where we are or what conditions we have to deal with.” Thomas said.

When space is not available inside the Dome, the team clears the snow off the soccer field.

“One week my coaches went out there and shoveled the snow and we got a 20-by-20-yard box of turf open for us to practice, so we had 32 girls practicing in a 20-by-20-yard box,” senior midfielder Alexis Mitchell said.

The team knew heading into the season that weather would

be a challenge during the winter months but adapted to the challenge to be able to play, Mitchell said.

“The Summit League made a statement saying that we can play a game in zero-degree weather,” Mitchell said. “So whenever we’re out there practicing in bad weather we basically say if we can train in it, we can play in it.”

The older members of the team encourage the freshman to stay positive and try to give them as much true college experience as possible, senior midfield Sunny Huettner said.

“Even though we’re kind of on lockdown we try making it fun for them and make sure that they’re okay,” Huettner said.

The team is focusing on playing as many games as possible and to embrace the challenges because they finally get to play again, Huettner said.

“It’s my last time I’ll be playing soccer so I just want to have as much fun as possible,” Huettner said. “We hype each other up and then we get down to business before the game. I just hope when I leave the team is better than when I got here.” Huettner said.

Sports

B4 Wednesday, February 24, 2021

The Volante | volanteonline.com

Volleyball decides to keep masks off the court Rachel Tompson

Rachel.Thompson@coyotes.usd.edu

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

Coyote volleyball members cheer after winning a challenged play against North Dakota State in the Sanford Coyote Sports Center on Feb. 21.

Coyotes sweep NDSU over weekend series Madilyn Sindelar

Madilyn.Sindelar@coyotes.usd.edu

The USD (5-1) volleyball team faced off against the North Dakota State (4-4) Bison inside the Sanford Coyote Sports Center Sunday night.

The Coyotes came away with a win after four sets 26-24, 25-19, 24-26, 27-25. This match is the first in a two-day series inside the SCSC. The matchup is a pink-out game in honor of breast cancer awareness.

The match was a back and forth effort for the Coyotes and Bison with 29 ties and 12 lead changes throughout the night. The final set saw the Coyotes fight back from a 23-19 deficit to win the contest. South Dakota moves 5-4 overall and 4-1 in the Summit League Sophomore outside hitter Elizabeth Juhnke produced 23 kills and senior teammate outside hitter Sami Slaughter had 11 kills. Sophomore outside hitter Aimee Adams had her first collegiate double-double with 10 kills and 15 digs.

Sophomore middle blocker Madison Harms saw 11 block assists against the Bison, a school record.

Senior Madison Jurgens also had a double-

double with 47 assists and 14 digs while defensive specialist Lolo Weideman contributed 25 digs, a career high.

“I think we learned our lesson from last weekend,” Harms said about the team’s Omaha loss. “Every team is going to come in here and want to beat us and I think mentally we just have to get used to that. The second day has more fatigue involved which means we just have to be more disciplined.”

The Coyotes maintained that discipline and fought off the Bison during night two of the series with a 3-0 sweep Monday night.

South Dakota easily found their momentum, winning the first set 25-14 then closing out the match 25-16 and 25-23.

Junior middle blocker Maddie Wiedenfeld saw a Coyote personal best 13 kills and hit .500 in the match.

Juhnke and Slaughter had 12 and seven kills respectively.

The South Dakota team travels to Brookings for a two game set Sunday at 5 p.m. inside Frost Arena and will play match two at 7 p.m. Monday.

The USD women’s volleyball team this semester had to battle with the question of whether or not they would wear masks on the court.

Before the Summit League the Volleyball team experimented with wearing their masks on the court during their previous games.

The Summit League officials made the decision to not mandate masks. Each institution was given the option to wear masks or opt out. USD allowed the volleyball team to make the decision.

“It was just a decision that we felt was best for us in terms of playing games and practicing.

We obviously knew we could play in masks if need be. But that’s what we decided, and this as a program was best for us,” head coach Leanne Williamson said.

The volleyball team gets COVID-19 tested three times a week and wears their masks in the gym, in the hallways, on the bus and on the sidelines of a game, just not on the court during the game.

“We get tested three times a week. Also we’re kind of in a bubble right now. So I feel like we all are pretty safe. And we’re all making smart decisions. We have team rules we have to follow so I’d say for the majority, we all feel

pretty safe,” Sami Slaughter, a senior on the volleyball team, said.

During the game there are numerous COVID-19 preventative measures being taken.

The teams no longer switch sides, and the volleyballs are sanitized routinely throughout the game.

“It’s been different to get used to but I feel like the team is in the groove of things now that it’s pretty easy,” Claire Gerdes, a junior on the volleyball team, said.

One main reason behind the decision of no longer wearing their masks on the court during the game was because of how important communication and expression was to the team.

“I think given the energy of volleyball, the one thing about masks I think we’ve all missed is just seeing facial expressions and knowing that somebody is happy or frustrated. I think that communication aspect is probably one of the most noticeable aspects on the court just simpler,” Williamson said.

The volleyball plans to continue to do everything they can to stay COVID-19 safe, with social distancing, getting tested frequently and wearing masks where it is required and necessary.

“And we’re gonna do anything that we can to play volleyball,” Slaughter said.

VHS gears up for spring athletics Bailey Zubke

Bailey.Zubke@coyotes.usd.edu

As winter sports like basketball, wrestling and gymnastics wrap up their seasons, Vermillion High School (VHS) is preparing for the spring season while still combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vermillion athletic director Jason Huska said Vermillion has implemented limited attendance and mandatory mask policies at indoor activities, but with outdoor sports like track and field coming up this spring, they are still contemplating their options.

“We have limited attendance and have a mandatory mask policy for all our indoor activities,” Huska said in an email interview with The Volante. “We can spread out during outdoor events but we may still require masks.”

Huska said one of the biggest challenges for VHS has been traveling to other schools that don’t have the same COVID-19 checks as they do. Vermillion completes temperature checks before practices, spreads athletes out and wears masks.

“When we travel on buses, we wear masks and spread out as much as possible,” Huska said. “Our coaches have done a great job of helping the students understand the importance of these procedures in order to finish each season successfully. We have been frustrated at times when we have gone

to other schools and they do not have similar mitigations.”

The South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA) has added recommendations for schools before each sports season. Huska said he believes the SDHSAA has done a good job handling the pandemic.

“It was all so new to everyone and not something anyone had been through,” Huska said. “I think the right recommendations were given and then the schools spent a lot of time preparing for the safety of each athlete and coaches. We appreciate the willingness of the SDHSAA to push forward and help us get the seasons in for the student athletes.”

This spring, VHS will have track and field, boys tennis and girls golf in competition.

Basketball and wrestling are heading into the postseason and state tournaments are starting this week. Huska said there have been great efforts to keep all student athletes safe.

“It took a great number of people to get to where we are today,” Huska said. “School Board, Superintendent, school nurse, teachers, coaches, custodians, etc. all have played and continue to play a key role in keeping our athletes safe. Many hours and dollars have been spent keeping our kids competing. We need to keep our procedures and protocols going and know it is the best for our student athletes to keep participating.”

Peyton Beyers | The Volante

A diversity and inclusion video is played before every home game to ensure all student-athletes feel included while competing for USD.

USD uniting students through athletics Rachel Spinks

Rachel.Spinks@coyotes.usd.edu

A diversity and inclusion video is played before every home game emphasizing that all athletes are to feel included while being a part of the USD athletics program.

Kelsey Bathke, head of marketing and fan engagement, said in an email interview with The Volante that scripts were created by the NCAA and Summit League for athletes to read. Each team is allowed to demonstrate inclusivity however they chose, she said, but the videos are just a small part of it.

“Some teams have special warmups, others have patches on warmups, it is a teamby-team decision,” Bathke said. “Our men’s basketball program read the NCAA Unity pledge and added an additional ending to it.

The track team also requested to record the NCAA Unity pledge as well.”

Bathke said the USD athletic teams requested to record videos with the intention of raising awareness for diversity and inclusion throughout USD programs. Bathke and her team of interns worked together to make all of the athletic program’s video messages.

Head coaches also were included in the video messages by reciting the same NCAA Unity pledge as student athletes.

“Our teams are working both internally and externally to emphasize diversity and inclusion and these videos are a part of external communications,” Bathke said.

Damani Hayes, a junior on the USD men’s basketball team, said that diversity and inclusion within USD athletics is about everyone feeling heard, welcomed and

understood in the space they are in.

“A lot of times somebody could do great things on a court or field, and those achievements are big and bright,” Hayes said. “But we also need to sit down and listen and understand their journey, what they’ve been through, and what it took them to get to where they’re at. And I think it’s important that those stories are told, but also listened to and understood.”

USD’s athletic program released their strategic plan in 2018 called ‘We are South Dakota’, highlighting seven themes to maintain the university’s values. One goal of USD athletics is centered around inclusion, equity and respect for all students.

“We want our student athletes to feel included, listened to and cared for,” Bathke said.

Xavier Fuller, a junior on the USD men’s basketball team, said that by creating an inclusive environment, people from different backgrounds can express who they are without criticism, allowing them to feel proud to have their own opinions.

“I think it’s important to have that clarity to them that their opinion does matter,” Fuller said.

Bathke said that everyone has room to grow when it comes to diversity and inclusion, but a major aspect is how you talk and treat your peers, your teammates and yourself. She says these videos that are broadcasted before games are just a small part of the USD athletics plan for ensuring diversity and inclusion within USD athletic programs.