Exploring Boredom in the Time of Social Distancing Canceled on The

Concert Entertain- Op: Zen Athlete’s Choir Tour ment in and the Perspec- cut short quaran- Art of tive on tine Quarantine COVID-19

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April 6, 2020 Issue 5 Follow us online

Student teaching in an online school Jaclyn Vander Waal—Staff Writer help out their cooperating teachers in as much as possible. Schools are taking many different After spring break senior Katie Bartels approaches, however, so it is difficult to create expected to stand in front of a classroom a standard for what each student teacher should of Sioux Center Middle School eight-grade be doing. language arts students. “That varies a great deal from teacher to Instead, she introduced herself to them for the teacher,” Starkenburg said. “We have some first time this past Monday via YouTube video. students who are the primary teacher for most Bartels, an elementary education major, is of their classes and subjects. Others are helping among 41 Dordt University student teachers teachers find resources to utilize and are who have had their educational training involved in communicating with students and dramatically altered by the COVID-19 virus their families. We have a few students whose outbreak. With schools suspending in-class schools are simply closed, and they are doing instruction, their educational platform has very little other than the other assignments and shifted from the classroom to online to fit the paperwork that goes with student teaching. The needs of their homebound students. wide range of experiences is part of what makes “I love teaching because of the relationship Contributed Photo this very complicated.” building and the communication between the where we all are alone on our computers.” teachers, and university supervisors during this Senior elementary education major Hayley teacher and student,” she said. “I will not be Dordt University student teachers are unsure time. Dordt is waiting on the state of Iowa to Visser also finds it difficult to effectively able to observe how my students are processing about how their student teaching experiences make final decisions on student teaching since give students feedback without developing a information or see first-hand how they are will unfold. They also are uncertain if they will teacher licensure is a state issue. He said these relationship. responding to anything. I hope to teach online meet state requirements. decisions take time and patience, which can be “When I provide comments to them, I want to in a way that is collaborative. I hope to create a Education professor Ed Starkenburg is staying difficult to accept during this pandemic. be able to connect with them,” she said. “I do community with these eighth-graders in a place in touch with cooperating teachers, student As of now, student teachers are expected to continued on page 3 Bore and peace: exploring Canceled on the court Sam Landstra—Staff Writer continue. boredom in the time of Earlier that evening, assistant coach Abby Ebby Prewitt knew her tournament was over Schultz led the team in a devotional on showing as soon as the commissioner stepped foot on the gratitude in every moment. She told a story of a social distancing court. Southeastern and Ohio Christian had just boy who suddenly passed away after collapsing finished their game and had gone into the locker on the court during a game, urging her players Emi Stewart — Staff Writer going to like what we see if we go towards rooms. Her team sat next to her on the bleachers to recognize the gift of basketball, of living each contemplation, and we aren’t sure that we have dressed and ready to play. day. We are not guaranteed anything, she said. “You know I’m bored when I start cleaning.” what it takes if we move towards creativity. And With resignation in his voice, Commissioner “It’s true.” Prewitt said. “I thought I was going Nebraska resident and former Dordt student so it’s easier for us just to distract ourselves.” Westra spoke and the Tyson Events Center fell to get up and play my game at nationals. But I Megan O’Gorman feels the pressure of He sees the word as a sort of catch-all, junk quiet. didn’t.” boredom. If there were not a viral illness drawer for many emotions. “The NAIA National Basketball Tournament After the announcement, Prewitt and her festering throughout the globe, she -- like all of “We’re not being accurate and naming exactly has been cancelled.” He said. teammates wandered onto the court to meet us -- could fill her day with errands and social what it is we’re feeling.” Digging a bit further Players looked around at each other. Stunned. their families. Still shaken, tears flowed for lost outings. However, that is not the case. She into the sensation of boredom often unveils Were they serious? Was it really over? Prewitt opportunities and hugs shared in their grief. resorts to dusting. deeper, root emotions, and he notes that “if buried her face into her hands and started to cry. continued on page 8 On March 12, the World Health Organization we’re honest, when we say we’re bored, what Her senior season had vanished in an instant, declared the outbreak of COVID-19 to be a we really mean is that we’re lonely.” stolen by the COVID-19 epidemic. global pandemic. Suddenly, establishments 2019 Dordt graduate Elayne Heynen agrees. A teammate approached her and placed a are closed to the public. Suddenly, employers “My desire to avoid boredom is really a desire hand on her shoulder. Another cradled her head. are imploring their staff to work from home. to avoid loneliness,.” said Heynen, who moved Sienna Stamness, the junior guard who lost Suddenly, millions of people have no option but to California after graduation. A new job is a much of her own season from two ACL tears, to be still, to sit with themselves, and to endure big transition in itself -- when paired with a new wrapped both her arms around Prewitt. long bouts of boredom. state and few established relationships, that This was supposed to be their year. For most, Netflix, Twitter, and good old jump proves to be an even more daunting one. “It was almost unbelievable at first.” Prewitt fashioned books can only provide so much “When I run out of things to do, I realize I don’t said. “All of us players have a bond that won’t relief. Eventually, we need to address boredom have any friends to hang out with.” be broken because no one else understood what and see it for what it truly is -- which is… what, According to Heynen, we often confuse that was like.” exactly? boredom with rest. When people are With two games already played on the “Boredom is that place that either leads to uncomfortable with the idea of being at rest Thursday morning, and eight others the previous distraction, or to contemplation and creativity,” -- for whatever reason that may be -- they may day, a sudden abandonment of the tournament said Dr. Justin Bailey, Assistant Professor of simply claim that they are “bored.” Heynen seemed out of the question. Any news of similar Theology at Dordt. “We aren’t sure we’re views this time through the lens of Sabbath. cancellations or postponements in the sports “Rest is something God commands us to do in world felt distant before that moment, small order to remind us of our own insufficiency and ripples in an ocean far away. our lack of time, and the fact that we actually “Never did I think that we would just cancel need God,” said Heynen. “Our current addiction it.” Coach Bill Harmsen said. “The rug was to caffeine is an indication of our desire to be kind of pulled out from under them.” sleep-optional people. We refuse to rest… and At 11:07 pm the night before, Harmsen that is a form of self-idolatry, in some ways.” received an email while in his hotel room Is this refusal to rest anchored by weighty mandating a restricted number of fans at the feelings, and not simply wanting to accomplish tournament. Each player would be given more tasks? It could be an indication of six tickets for immediate family members, underlying negative emotions that we don’t amounting to 126 people per team. wish to address, or rest in disguise, or the “I won’t forget it,” Harmsen said. instinct to create. Why does the prospect of Still, while dominoes fell in the NBA and Photo Credit: Emi Stewart continued on page 6 NCAA, he believed the tournament would Photo Credit: Ebby Prewitt page 2 News News page 3 Concert Choir ends tour early, but their song continues (cont.) Student teaching in COVID-19 throws a wrench in Sydney Brummel— Staff Writers The news of an early end to the tour brought “The air was thick with God’s presence,” From choir-themed Jeopardy to enthusiastic a variety of emotional responses from the Zuidema said. “We knew he was king, in all of karaoke led by the back end of the bus, the On Thursday afternoon, March 12, in the choir—students in tears, students in disbelief, it...We sang with all our might.” overlying feeling of heartbreak and uncertainty an online school senior research and design sanctuary of Sussex Christian Reformed or students who had already suspected that The choir and accompanying adults spent the was temporarily relieved by joking, laughter, continued from pg.1 City Christian School is really focusing on Benjamin Boersma — Staff Writer speaker system, creating a feedback loop and Church, NJ Dordt University Concert Choir this was a possibility. After some encouraging following two days travelling back to Dordt. and, of course, singing. Senior members were not know them well enough to do so. I just try to teaching only the essentials and getting rid of causing what was essentially a digital echo. members scattered themselves throughout words from Dr. Ethan Brue, who accompanied Even though they knew they were heading specially commended for their leadership, and be positive to them with my comments.” all else,” Visser said. “We want to deliver the Thursday, March 12: in the wake of Dordt’s Engineering students aren’t the only ones the pews. Some singers gathered in clusters, the choir along with his wife and Dr. Carrie back not to resume classes, but to leave campus the bus erupted in applause for their gifted The whole situation is a little scary for Bartles. same high-quality instruction students received decision to extend spring break and move having to navigate the online side of senior excitedly sharing plans for their free time in Groenewold, the choir gathered for one last tour entirely, many members ensured that the journey organist, Dr. Groenewold, and their beloved She cannot help but consider how COVID-19 in school, so we really are working to narrow classes online, a new decision had to be made: projects. According to junior nursing student New York City the next day. Others diligently rehearsal. was remembered positively by the whole choir. director, Professor Smit. By the time the bus may negatively impact her students and herself. the curriculum and content down to the skin and what to do about senior projects. Gideon Brandsma, clinicals have been replaced reviewed their music for the concert that would “With a trip to New York City and Broadway, “On the bus home, I think we were all strong rolled onto campus on Saturday evening, the “Students will be behind in their content bones of the standards and skills. That, in itself, “Part of the process is managing the project, so by online simulations and case studies. take place in a few hours, preparing last-minute as well as the rest of an exciting tour stripped in different ways,” Hoekstra said. “We got to be members, though ready to rest at home, were knowledge,” she said. “The lack of new is challenging me in a good way. It is making this had added a new wrinkle to all of that,” said “Our prof said the added infection risks of for the pieces that weren’t fully memorized. away, I expected to see anger and rudeness there for each other. We were all going through sad to leave each other. instruction due to COVID-19 will probably me reflect on how I do things and why Ido Ben Saarloos, who is charge of the engineering students in the hospital is just not worth taking,” make next year’s curriculum look much Some students simply lounged in the benches in come out in the frustration,” sophomore the same thing.” continued on page 8 them.” students’ lab access. “The students are having to said Brandsma. solitude, attempting to gain some much-needed Lindsey Zuidema said. “I saw the opposite.” different. Students are being shaped in all Visser remains positive about their student balance what they can and cannot do given the Overall, it appears that the transition has been rest from an exhausting week of tour. Indeed, despite the abundance of tears among different ways through this time, and teachers teaching experience despite the many struggles. ever-increasing level of restrictions.” going relatively smoothly. The choir’s chatter is broken by their director, choir members, the following rehearsal held a will do their best to keep everyone on track. She understands that this unique experience has Senior engineering students Matt Frazeur, “Some projects are more computational or Professor Ryan Smit, asking them to assemble sense of hopefulness and a firm resolve to finish I will also not be as prepared for classroom much to teach her. Ryan VerMeer, and Jeremy Riege have been ‘paper-based’ so they transition easier. Other in the first few rows of pews. The director stands the tour off strongly, to God’s glory. management and lesson planning for middle “I am trying to make the best of it,” she said. working on their project since October of last projects are very much prototype and hardware in front of the fifty-three singers and proceeds “We consoled each other. Students and school English language arts, but I will learn a “This is a great learning opportunity for me, year. The grounds crew had been having some driven,” said Saarloos. to read Proverbs 16:9, a passage testifying of adults alike offered each other compassion and lot of useful skills in technology through this and I am glad Dordt recognizes that and has difficulty working underneath some of their Lawnmower lift project had been slightly God’s direction over all man’s plans. After a kindness,” Zuidema said. “That last concert in experience.” asked us to capitalize on it. This is a great time bigger lawnmowers, so they asked the Frazeur, behind schedule because of some mistake with small eternity of silence, Professor Smit informs New Jersey is something I’ll remember for the This lack of relationship and face-to-face for me to practice online education despite its VerMeer, and Riege to come up with a portable measurements, but the extra time has allowed the choir that they are being sent home early rest of my life.” communication is a struggle that all student drawbacks. As much as I would rather be in lift to make the job easier. They spent the rest Frazeur, VerMeer and Riege to catch back up. from their tour due to the growing concerns The Concert Choir sang their entire tour teachers are facing at this time. However, the classroom with my students and mentor of the fall semester coming up with designs “It’s been good for us to not have to meet for over COVID-19. They would begin the journey repertoire for the final concert. From the first Kim Lee, cooperating teacher for grades 5-8 teachers, I am trying to do what I can to help and have been working on construction this classes. We’ve had more time to work on our back to Sioux Center the following morning. line of “Cantate Domino” to the concluding mathematics at Orange City Christian School, them both virtually.” semester. project,” said Frazeur. “I think that hearing the news made everyone Alleluia of “Praise to the Lord,” the musicians thinks there are ways to combat this struggle. In the end, what matters to Bartels is the “We had the pieces cut before break, but not They expect to be finished in time to present realize that you couldn’t take anything for dedicated the night to the Lord in song. From “It promotes creativity and encourages student mindset she keeps during this difficult situation. assembled,” said Frazeur. on their work at the end of the semester. Work is granted,” sophomore Carlie Hoekstra said. their deep disappointment arose an even teachers to go outside of the content in creating “I want to make the most of this time despite Senior engineering students usually have to also being done on other senior projects, in spite “None of us were really ready to leave.” stronger desire to worship together, sharing the those extra fun things normally included within the corona virus,” she said. “Everyone is a bit present their projects to the rest of the class, of potential setbacks. The Concert Choir had planned to tour the joyful message of the pieces to their audience. a school day or week,” she said. “Making sure worried and angry that this is happening right but with classes now completely online for the Northeast United States as well as a portion “At one point, after we finished singing ‘When each child still understands that they are a now. I want to help bring peace to this, and I rest of the school year, they have met with their Southern Ontario through spring break. We Love,’ I looked away from Smit, and I don’t unique, valued learner and loved by God is a can do that by doing online teaching well and professors virtually and they will record a video Throughout the week, the ensemble had made remember seeing an audience as emotional and different ballgame when you aren’t interacting creating community through online learning.” of their presentation for the class. stops in Cedar Rapids, IA, Michigan, Ontario, connected as they were in that moment,” senior face to face on a daily basis.” Through the experience, Visser has gained a “I found out that it’s really distracting when and Vermont. After their concert in New Jersey, Anna Blauw said. “I don’t know if they knew it Veteran teachers and student teachers are new appreciation for teachers. you can hear yourself on someone else’s mic,” they had planned to spend a day in New York was our last concert, but I think they knew that finding that everything must be more intentional “Teachers are rockstars,” she said. “Like, said VerMeer. He and Frazeur are roommates, City and then have two more concerts in there was something different and special about now that they are teaching their students from wow. I have always known that, but seeing so they were usually in the same room when home. Guelph, ON and Ann Arbor, MI. that night.” Photo Credit: Dordt University Music Department Facebook them in this context just proves it over and over they started meeting with their professor. The “During this time of online education, Orange again.” problem was that one person’s microphone would pick up what was coming out of his Photo Credit: Ryan VerMeer The effects of panic buying Entertainment in the age Lexi Schnaser— Staff Writer retail therapy to regain some sense of control. of toiletry products like toilet paper and hand ago. Residence Life on campus While it may seem smart to stock up on as sanitizer really hurts ministries who try to Now, the panic buying is still an unfortunate of quarantine Yee Lim Shin — Staff Writer more of my position has been getting people We’ve probably all seen the pictures of the many boxes of Kraft mac and cheese and provide these goods to those who cannot afford everyday reality. “Products are still being into their rooms or their buildings if they get Gretchen Lee— Staff Writer Peel. “We like to watch shows as a family when empty toilet paper aisles in Walmart. The toilet paper as possible to avoid having to go to buy them themselves. He encouraged people produced, so you can purchase things at a Ever since Dordt University went online, locked out or helping people move out as I’m home.” question is: why are people panic-buying to the store later, panic-buying can have more to take a bigger picture at the whole mess. Do normal pace,” said Kendall Snyder, a Dordt the campus sidewalks—once was filled with people come back over the weekend,” CDA While in-shelter quarantine isn’t being Among the most popular shows were toilet paper when COVID-19 is a virus with negative consequences than positive. we really need to be hoarding out of fear when student who works at Fareway. students—are empty. The school of around Michael Buma said. enforced by law in every state yet, most Dordt “Brooklyn 99,” “The Office,” and “Criminal respiratory, not gastrointestinal symptoms? For example, the PLIA team that travelled some people can’t ever afford these products? Snyder has a few words of advice for 1,500 students now has less than 200 students Instead of staying on duty from 5 pm-8 am students have been practicing social distancing. Minds.” All jokes aside, panic-buying and hoarding to Colorado Springs over spring break spent a When Miller went into the store to stock up on customers. “There is no need to panic and make living in its dorms. Among those few students like they usually do during the semester, the With so much time at home away from friends, Students seemed to watch a wider variety of have become the new norm amidst the craziness day serving at Crossfire Ministries, a food and toiletry items for the people he serves, he could the jobs of service workers more difficult. Give still on campus are the Residence Life staff. Residence Life staff hold the duty and security students are left to fend for themselves when it movies. Surveyed students listed movies they of stay-at-home orders and social distancing. In toiletry pantry. When talking to John Miller, the not get enough of what he needed. Some people them a ‘thank you’ because they are working The Residence Life staff, which consist of RAs phones 24/7 so there is always someone comes to entertainment. have enjoyed recently and Frozen 2 was the only a time when everything feels out of control, originator of the ministry and current operations who depended on Crossfire for these products really hard for you right now.” (Residence Assistants), CDAs (Community available to help. In the era of digital streaming and binge- one listed by multiple people. The majority of many people all over the world have turned to director, he said the panic-buying and hoarding were out of luck. That was almost four weeks Development Assistants), and LCAs (Learning “The pro-staff was saying they just want watching, Dordt students found sufficient student’s favorite movies were recent releases, Community Assistants) are still on campus people to know that we’re on campus and ways of keeping busy. Participating in digital but some older favorites, like “Finding Nemo,” to provide students with any help they may available as a resource,” said CDA Jacquelyn entertainment, like movies and television, is “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” and “Old need. While their titles remain the same, as Geels. Forseth steps back from Dordt certainly one of the easiest ways of occupying Yeller” also made it in the mix. Dordt shifts to online learning, their duties also Like the rest of Dordt University, the large amounts of free-time. Outside of movies and TV, other students change. Residence Life staff is making adjustments to Lauren Hoekstra — Staff Writer of helping people reach their full potential. to her. Forseth leaves Dordt with a blessing and Out of the Dordt students surveyed, only 8% said that they preferred to stream video games “A lot of our work is centered around planning serve students. Even though Forseth may be leaving, Hoekstra “Dordt will miss having him around,” she encouragement to students. reported that they do not usually watch movies through Steam and Twitch. Peter Shippy, a events and being with our residents,” West Hall On March 19, Dordt released that Dr. knows that his impact will be felt across the said. “We serve a big God [with a] big Kingdom. or television. So how have the other 92% kept freshman computer science major, is one such RA Yovela Belicia said, “and now since all our Eric Forseth, provost since 2013, would be community for years to come. For Hoekstra, these next few weeks will be God bless you, and grace be with you,” he busy during quarantine? student. residents are gone, well, that’s a huge part of it transitioning to serve as Head of Schools at “It continues to hit me level by level the full of online meetings with more than a dozen said. “We try to talk so often about living Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu were “Typically when I am bored I will load up taken away.” Holland Christian Schools in Holland, MI. impact that he’s had on our campus over the past of people that Forseth was directly responsible transformationally. Don’t think about living a go-to for a majority of students, with 80% of Warframe, an online, squad-based multiplayer Every day there is an RA or LCA on duty Forseth said that he was originally drawn to years,” Hoekstra said. “I am more grateful for for, asking them questions such as what went transformationally when you graduate, students surveyed stating that they prefer to game.” Shippy said. He has also taken the for every residence hall, and one CDA for the Dordt from his previous place of employment at him today than [ever before]. My appreciation well during Forseth’s time as provost that think about it now. It starts today, not just at use an online streaming subscription to watch opportunity of being trapped at home to play apartments. They have duty and security phones Nampa Christian Schools in Nampa, ID because for what he has done has definitely deepened.” should be replicated in the next leader, what graduation.” media. Netflix was the most popular; 79% of longer videogames with his brothers. to keep in contact and do rounds around their of the high-quality Dordt graduates that came to Students as well can feel the impact of changes should be made so that the next provost participants have used the service since the Other students, however, are finding most of respective buildings, answer calls, and help work for the school. Forseth and his work, both on the grander scale can thrive, and how can everyone help Forseth beginning of Spring Break. their entertainment outside of the digital screen students. “Their biblical worldview was so solid and it and his work interpersonally with the campus finish his time well at Dordt. Hoekstra is unsure While not many of Netflix’s original movies altogether. “Now since we have more online classes, Contributed Photo made such a difference [in the classroom],” he community. Staci Seaman, a senior who has of the future beyond the listening stage. made the list of student’s favorite movies from “Helping my dad on the farm has been a big said. recently returned from a semester abroad in Hoekstra commented that he had grown very their time in isolation, several of Netflix’s part of entertaining myself because I enjoy He was immediately attracted to that solid Uganda, admired his intentionality. She has close to Forseth during his seven years here original series did, including “I’m Not doing that,” said Hallie Beck, a sophomore and high-quality education that Dordt was seen him be incredibly open and personable at Dordt. They had bonded over a love for Okay With This,” “Watership Down,” and general agriculture major. “[Quarantine] hasn’t Diamond Staff 2019-2020 providing. When Dr. Erik Hoekstra came to during her work with Student Government. pheasant hunting and bird dogs and had lots “Ragnarok.” Overall, 66% of students surveyed really been too different from what I’m used to Nampa for a Dordt event and met with Forseth Seaman mentioned her time serving with him of fun going hunting and raising money for the stated that they participated in binge-watching because we are always busy on the farm.” Chief Editors: Copy Editors: Lauren Hoekstra Connor Van for coffee, Hoekstra urged Forseth to apply for on different committees. She knows that the Rooster Booster Scholarship. shows more than marathon movie-watching. While Beck has watched some movies, Erika Buiter Harrison Burns Haemi Kim Hulzen the position of provost. Hoekstra was “very interest of the students is on his mind in every Since Hoekstra travels a lot, he was When deciding to watch a show or movie, she says that her preferred methods of self- Emma Stoltzfus Tess Hemmila Lindsay Kuiper Hannah Van meeting. If he were to feel that the voice of the encouraged by knowing that Forseth would everyone is faced with the question of whether entertainment are driving, working with her Sam Landstra Otterloo impressed” with Forseth and his commitment Story Editor: Staff Writers: students was not being heard, he would ask take care of things while he was gone. to watch something new or revisit an old livestock, and listening to music. Gretchen Lee Yage Wang to Christ personally and to Christian education Allison Wordes Logan Aukes very specific questions about how the change “There’s definitely a sense of loss and favorite. While students have certainly done a While some students are growing tired of Juliana Martinez and thought he would be perfect for the job. Ben Boersma that was being discussed would look from a sadness, but ultimately if what we say is true mix of both, 66% of students said that they made screen time and being cooped up at home, Caleb Pollema Staff Advisor: Although a lot of his work is behind the Layout Designers: Alicia Bonestroo student’s perspective. and God calls us into places to serve, we can’t an effort to expand their horizons by watching others, like Acacia Phillips, a junior digital Kathryn Ribbens Lee Pitts scenes, Forseth has been a part of many Anneka Bakker Sydney Brummel Juliana Martinez, the current Student Body argue with that,” Hoekstra said. shows and movies they hadn’t seen yet. media major, haven’t grown tired of watching Caleb Schreurs important developments on campus. Forseth Retasya Badudu Evangeline President, has seen some of the same things that Forseth’s favorite part of his job has been Marissa Peel, a junior elementary education movies and shows quite yet. Yee Lim Shin commented that he was proud of all the new Colarossi Seaman has witnessed. Having first met Forseth “absolutely the students,” he said. He and his major, has taken the time to use digital “I’m not bored yet, no. There are so many Photography Spencer Short facilities that could be built during his time at Tabetha DeGroot in her visit to Dordt during inher senior year of wife, Kim, frequently opened their home for entertainment and television series as an movie and TV options that I don’t really get Editor: Anthony Siegrist Dordt: the Agricultural Stewardship Center Zachary Dirksen high school, he has consistently kept tabs on groups of Dordt students to come for Sunday opportunity to spend time with her family. bored of watching them.” Phillips said. “It’s Sawyer Strelnieks Emi Stewart (ASC), the completion of the Science Building, Luke Drooger the new Nursing Building, the Sky Walk, and he her throughout her time at Dordt. Whenever she dinners. He called it a “gift” that he was able to “[My family] really likes the original series nice that we have so many options to choose Jaclyn Vander on Netflix, like ‘The Crown’ and ‘Dracula.’ I’ve from with today’s technology.” Lexi Eekhoff is especially proud of the Kielstra Research and would bump into him in the halls, he would ask interact with so many students over the years. Contributed Photo Waal Scholarship Center, as it fulfills his deep desire how she was doing and how he could be helpful As he moves on to a new job and new place, been showing that to my parents lately,” said Feature page 4 Art & Entertainment page 5 The Invisible Man review Disney+ early releases Movie nights from miles (cont.) Bore and peace Zach Dirksen— Staff Writer her life can help her do that. But soon, strange Haemi Kim— Staff Writer things begin to happen. Cecilia feels breath on away continued from page 1 It was 2014 and it was high time Universal the back of her neck. Kitchen items begin to . . .stillness and a blank to-do list make some yourself with how much time you can actually of us so uneasy? spend,” said Testerman. “Which is hard to do in Studios had its own cinematic universe. move, seemingly by themselves. Someone else Lindsay Kuiper — Staff Writer Disney and Marvel, with only a handful of fun, is in the house with her. Is she crazy? Is it a Associate Professor of English Luke Hawley America because we are super time-oriented. It is an advocate of boredom. In his classes, he is hard to detach from that and still be a member interconnected movies, had themselves a cash ghost? Or is Adrian not ready to let her go just the Chrome-exclusive feature. “It’s super easy During this time of social distancing, many encourages students to see what happens when of society. But when you have the opportunity cow with the MCU. But Universal didn’t have yet? to navigate,” she said. “It’s a really creative aspects of life have been moved online, and they let themselves become bored. He believes to do that, I think it’s really beautiful.” superheroes. So, scouring the depths of their The Invisible Man is a masterclass in suspense. way to talk about the movie without verbally social gatherings are no exception. some of his most creative moments come from Boredom is an inevitable element of human intellectual property, someone had an amazing We know what we’re expecting going in, it’s interrupting it so you can still understand what’s In response to the coronavirus crisis, a new embracing boredom, and allowing his curiosity life. It can be an opportunity for personal idea. What if, we rebooted all the classic in the title after all. What we aren’t expecting, going on.” Chrome extension called Netflix Party has to wander. However, having actively, willingly growth, rest, introspection, or the launching pad monster movies we made in the 1940’s, but however, is how nervous that thought can make So far, over 1 million people have downloaded been increasing in popularity. Netflix’s website participated in boredom, he understands the for a new creative endeavor. also crossed them all over, Avengers-style. The us. The Invisible Man could be anywhere. Netflix Party to their browser. However, some states that it “synchronizes video playback instinct to avoid it at all costs. “How we spend our days is how we spend idea was solid gold. Soon, the first film in the Sitting in the chair in the corner or standing users have pointed out issues with the extension. and adds group chat to your favorite Netflix “I think there is a deep existential dread that is our lives,” said Bailey, who includes the movie so-called Dark Universe, Dracula Untold hit right behind us. He might not be there at all, but For example, it automatically kicks everyone shows,” making the virtually impossible task of around the corner, all the time,” said Hawley. To Groundhog Day in his curriculum on the basis theaters. how could we tell? This is the constant state of out of the chat room once a show is over, and a connecting with friends a virtual reality. him, boredom -- although intimidating -- creates of this idea. “What could you do with 30 or 40 No one remembers Dracula Untold, and paranoia that Cecilia is in throughout the film, new session must be created for every episode Only one person has to download the extension space for crucial questions. “Be brave and ask years? Guess what, you have them. One day at rightly so. It’s not a bad movie, per se, but it and we feel that with her. Every empty space that is watched with the extension. on their browser, but all participants must have the hard questions of yourself. What do I really a time.” certainly isn’t one that can anchor a tentpole becomes a held breath, an I-Spy book, where There are also no usernames in the chat room, their own Netflix account. From there, they can like to do? What am I interested in? What do I franchise. Unfazed by Dracula’s lack of success, we search for the slightest abnormality. so users must memorize the icons given to find the movie or television show they’d like think would be really fun to learn, instead of just Universal went all in. You know what’ll really On a metaphorical level, the concept also each member of the group to determine who is to watch and create a link to share with their learning in order to get a degree?” put butts in seats? Tom Cruise. Fighting a works marvelously. While an Invisible Man is saying what. friends or family. Senior social work major Holly Testerman mummy. Heck yeah! 2017’s The Mummy came, literally stalking Cecilia, the trauma of Adrian’s Despite the issues, many people are praising Anyone in the group can play or pause the is another defender of boredom, but her focal and went, with a whimper. It seems as though abuse haunts her as well. Those memories will Netflix Party as a way to make social distancing show unless the host has specified otherwise. point is presentness. the Dark Universe just wasn’t meant to be. never leave her, and Adrian’s presence, whether Contributed Photo more tolerable. While everyone is confined to Everyone can share their thoughts in real time “What am I doing now? Who am I with now? But, Universal still had release dates lined up that be physical, mental, or metaphorical is still their own homes, having more online features using the group chat feature on the side of the What’s important now?” Testerman frequently for future releases. Surely cancelling them all with her. Cinema 5 theater in Sioux Center has so it was really nice to see it already,” Phillips such as Netflix Party makes the isolation easier. screen. checks in with herself by asking these questions. would be embarrassing. Plus, it might be nice Perhaps the strongest element of The Invisible announced they will be closed until the end of said, “especially due to the coronavirus.” Freshman Sommer Schaap recently tried out to get a bit of the money they spent back, right? Man is Elizabeth Moss as Cecilia. Moss has March. They are not alone as theaters all over Noah Deist, another sophomore, said it was “a She was living in Uganda for the semester, Thus, Universal turned to Blumhouse, which been consistently tearing it up on television for the country temporarily shut their doors over smart business move from movie studios” to get as a part of a study-abroad program. Once the was dominating the scene with low-budget, but two decades, starting on The West Wing and COVID-19 as families stay home. Many movies audiences excited about their movies. news of the COVID-19 outbreak spread, she consistently entertaining horror movies like Get moving to Mad Men and The Handmaid’s Tale. have pushed back their release indefinitely, “They spent millions on these film and three was ordered back to the U.S. Although her Out and Split, to help them pick up the slack. Only recently has Moss made an impression while those that have made it to the theater months from now when the theater open up experience was cut short by several weeks, she Now, in 2020, we have the first of their efforts, in film, but she’s certainly here to stay. Moss came out with poor opening weekends. again, the hype for their movie will have died finds immense value in the time she was given. The Invisible Man. In it, we follow Cecilia, a brings a realistic and energized performance Streaming services are stepping into the out,” said Deist. The director of the program had a motto that woman racked by fear and paranoia. After here. We experience these horrors as she does entertainment gap left by movie theaters. Disney Both Phillips and Deist have a positive look sticks with Testerman. This, here, now. This, barely escaping the clutches of her abusive, tech and Moss does wonders expressing Cecilia’s brought a happy surprise by releasing Frozen 2 towards Disney’s early releases in Disney+ here, now. millionaire ex-boyfriend, Cecilia finds herself fear and pain. globally on Disney+ over three months ahead of because of the changes and isolation that has In Uganda, Testerman would spend hours in holed up in a friend’s house. She ishesitant to I don’t know the state of the Dark Universe. its original release on June 26. been going on due to COVID-19. silence, drinking tea, waiting for transportation, even go outside, fearing the possibility that After The Mummy, it seemed dead in the water. “‘Frozen 2’ has captivated audiences around However, Phillips did have some worries on or watching chickens run across the road. her controlling ex, Adrian, is out there looking But with the success of The Invisible Man, the world through its powerful themes of people wanting more from the companies. She turned her watch and phone off, allowing for her. Adrian and Cecilia’s relationship was Universal might actually have something. perseverance and the importance of family,” “People may demand them to be on [Disney+] herself to not be aware of the passing time. extremely one-sided, with Adrian controlling Instead of pandering to box office guarantees, said Bob Chapek, Chief Executive Officer of sooner now because it is certainly really nice,” “When you take time out of the equation and you just let yourself sit, I think you can surprise nearly every aspect of her life. Separating they’ve chosen to take a risk with a smaller the Walt Disney Company, on the early release, Philips said. Contributed Photo Contributed Photo herself from that will take some time. amount of money, making a personal story “messages that are incredibly relevant during Even though for now, people will have to Cecilia soon finds that Adrian has committed while still being scary, reinventing the classic this time, and we are pleased to be able to share watch movies through their streaming sites, suicide, and that he’s left much of his fortune monster movie for a new generation. With this heartwarming story early with our Disney+ Deist believes that the movie theatres will not to her, pending she keep to some conditions. Universal and Blumhouse making plans to do subscribers to enjoy at home on any device.” have a negative impact in the future. She can’t commit a crime and she can’t be ruled the same with another Dracula movie, it looks Sophomore Acacia Phillips is currently “I think the theaters are going to be extremely PLIA 2020: a journey to remember mentally unstable. Cecilia is ready to move like the monsters are here to stay. The Dark subscribed to Disney+ and says appreciates that overbooked once they are allowed to reopen.” on, and having this money and Adrian out of Universe is dead, all hail the Dark Universe. movies are being made available to the public Deist said. Tabetha DeGroot and Benjamin Boersma — Staff the congregation. She explained to us that she with the coronavirus on our minds. Rumors of them barely missed our front bumper. We early. Disney has announced that Onward will also Writers had lost a granddaughter while on the way to were beginning to reach us that classes might were scared. “I was trying to figure out what to watch one be streaming early to Disney+ on April 3, less the hospital. None of us were ready for how be cancelled when we returned. Those rumors Someone suggested that we say a prayer. It night and saw that Frozen 2 was already on there than a month after its theatrical release. During this time of social distancing, many straightforward she was in telling us. were confirmed when we quit for the day. was there, on the side of the road just outside aspIt started with French toast in our leader’s We found Pastor Jon Greydanus inside the Almost half our group was from Canada, and of Nebraska, that we experienced the most kitchen and ended with a cinnamon roll hug. church and he showed us around. We would they suddenly had to get home. They booked effective team building activity of the week. For We left the first Friday morning of spring break sleep and eat in the church. Our only option flights as fast as they could. The rest ofus, a moment, the coronavirus and online classes Tables turned for the after breakfast and stopped at the Maurice City for showering was at a nearby pool, which was except for two who lived in Sioux Center, were forgotten. It was just us and God in the Park on our way out. Towards the back of the closed when we arrived on Saturday night and would have to drive home. middle of the storm. park is a tube slide that looks like it was built would not open until Monday. This was our Friday morning came very quickly. There Thankfully, there were no more surprises theatre: where to next? inside the tank of a water tower. One by one, first lesson on how to “improvise, adapt, and was a storm brewing in the mountains of New after that and we made it back to Sioux Center the seven of us slid down and experienced the overcome.” We became practiced in the art Mexico and Colorado, so we decided to try safe and sound. While we were in Shiprock, Allison Wordes— Staff Writer their last. Still, it was an encouraging experience slide’s twists and turns. of sink bathing, dry shampoo, and deodorant going through a different pass in the Rockies. Stiemsma had taught us something called “the and Burns praised the talent of the cast. “That was a good indication to me that we Dordt’s response to COVID-19 has changed wipes that week. The trip went smoothly until just before the cinnamon roll hug.” Everyone joins hands and “I was incredibly lucky to even have the would have a great week,” said junior Isaac the direction for the theatre department this “I’m going to have to be okay with looking Nebraska border. As the sun set, the sleet finally turns inwards until we’re all wrapped up like chance to perform the play in the first place,” Porte, reflecting on the trip. semester. The theatre building sits empty, and feeling a bit greasier than usual,” freshman caught up with us, and the roads began to ice a cinnamon roll. With our feet safely back on Burns said, “and I am confident that much of Little did we know, however, that our trip without the raucous laughter and jokes from the Grace Nanninga remarked. over. familiar soil, we did our best cinnamon roll hug my work on the writing will pay off eventually.” would end with twists to rival the Maurice theatre students. For devotions that evening, one of us prayed The truck ahead of us couldn’t make it up yet and said our sad goodbyes. Though it was Senior Kaitlyn Baljeu also has to deal with Slide. After stopping overnight in Western Three major upcoming events included the that God would use the time to help us reorient the hill and stopped to put on chains. We lost hard to part, any journey that starts with French these changes with her show about Vincent Van Nebraska, we traveled the windy roads into performances of three seniors for their final our focus toward Him. A word of advice: be momentum and couldn’t get started. Vehicles toast and ends in a cinnamon roll hug will not Gogh, Break of Day, but sees hope ahead. Colorado. Gideon Brandsma, one of our projects—Zach Dirksen, Kaitlyn Baljeu, and careful what you ask for. You might not like flew over the hill, unable to slow down. A few easily be forgotten. “I have the chance to continue Break of Day leaders, plugged in his phone before heading Harrison Burns. how He answers. next [fall] semester, which I am so grateful for.” out. As the mountains rose before us, a familiar So, what are these seniors going with their For most of the week, we cleaned up around She originally planned to graduate in May, but tune began to play. shows now? For the most part, the news of the church, burned tumbleweeds, hauled tree earlier circumstances caused her to add an extra “I can show you the world…” change wasn’t too much of a surprise. branches and two-by-fours, and drywalled. semesterto accommodate a third major. Slowly, the music grew in excitement, and “It was already a week into the major When we weren’t working, we spent time Baljeu has been in this process of putting on a we crested a hill just as the big crescendo shutdowns around the country so I was already getting to know our teammates and introducing show for almost two years. She felt the change happened. Before us was the winding highway expecting it,” said Harrison Burns, who was ourselves to the local wildlife, such as dogs, coming over spring break as well as Burns, leading down into the valley below. going to put on his own piece of playwriting, peacocks, and lots of spiders. because as the fear of COVID-19 slowly crept “A whole new world, A new fantastic point of Bankrupt. “So, it wasn’t really surprising, but On Wednesday we traveled into Arizona to over campus it started to affect her meetings in view…” it was still really disappointing and frustrating.” visit the Grand Canyon. It was overcast and the theatre and put her project on hold. We pulled up to Bethel CRC of Shiprock, Because he is a senior, Burns will not be able foggy when we arrived. The rangers told us not The process was just about halfway for New Mexico, as night fell upon the dusty desert to direct this play as a Dordt student. However, to expect good visibility. We went in anyway, Baljeu—the production team had been working town. We breathed in the dry air, excitement there are perhaps bigger and better things for just in time for the fog to lift and a rainbow to on their designs, and the cast had two rehearsals spreading through the van. It was crystal clear: his production. After several months of revising appear several hundred feet below us. As the down. Luckily, she won’t have to recast we weren’t in Iowa anymore. and rewriting, he hopes to publish his final draft. day continued and we hiked around the canyon, everyone—just the people who are graduating. A Navajo woman was sweeping the entryway It would then be possible for it to be performed the sky cleared up. We saw at least seven more “I’ll have the chance to finish out my dream as we approached the door. We greeted her, and at another time or in another place. rainbows that day, as well as a sunset that turned project,” she said. She has been learning just she explained that she was cleaning up after “In my mind, this felt like my big, creative the canyon walls from brown to flaming red how big of a task directing a show can be, and her daughter’s funeral. Death is a common senior project that all my theatre experience before fading into the blackness of evening. a little extra time is a hidden blessing. She occurrence on the Navajo reservation of had been building to,” Burns said, “so to have it “God just can’t stop flexing,” said sophomore plans to spend most of the summer prepping Shiprock. There had been two funerals shortly completely disappear like this is rather jarring.” Sydney Stiemsma. for Break of Day rehearsals and production before we arrived, and there was a third during The group was able to do one read-through “Careful what you ask for,” someone else meetings, so that the result will be even better the week we were there. Later in the week, before spring break—unaware that it would be replied. “He’s more than happy to oblige.” Contributed Photos some of us helped drywall for a member of Contributed Photo continued on page 8 We returned to our work Thursday morning page 6 Opinion Opinion page 7

Zen and the art of the quarantine I just want Inside jokes; quarantine & comedy Harrison Burns — Staff Writer out with friends. This is going to be harder than along during the lockdown. All this screen time days, cabin fever can feel overwhelming and you thought. has forced you to order blue-light protection the news can be oppressively depressing. Emi Stewart — Staff Writer listening to NPR, but lately he is wary of hitting of which highlights some silly anagrams for Like most of my fellow students, when I Stage 3: Paranoia- You just sneezed, have glasses. You don’t know if you should feel Sometimes, life is bleak and there is no covering some sports, the play button. He finds this time interesting terms related to the outbreak. For example, came home for Spring Break, I was expecting a you been infected? Can pets carry the virus? relieved or ashamed about this… it up in glitter. This is bleak. Every other notification seems not only in terms of history and philosophy “social distancing,” when scrambled, creates pleasant reprise from college stress and a quick Why does everyone want toilet paper? Are you Stage 10: Confusion- Online classes at least But I know that in the midst of this, I have also to be about the virus, with a solid 80% of those (both subjects that he studies), but also as a the words “dancing socialist.” A sketch of a trip. But in the span of 72 hours, all expectations missing something? And have you seen any provide something for you to do. Maybe a little been inspired by the grace and generosity I’ve please notifications bearing net negative news. We are creator of comedy. small, boogying Bernie Sanders accompanies for the rest of the semester burnt to ash faster birds since everything went on lockdown? You too much to do. One day you feel like you’re seen from family, friends and strangers. stuck inside. We are out of our usual rhythm. “I think this is a form of suffering, and the description. Connor Van Hulzen — Staff Writer than marshmallows when I make smores. don’t think so… and just when the government caught in a time warp of doing nothing. The As lonely and annoying and difficult as We are isolated. We are scared. suffering is universal. Everything is so doom In the caption, Cohen asks his followers to The slow drip of dread quickly became is shutting things down… coincidence? next day you feel like you’re caught in a time this isolation can be, we can be encouraged But, comedy is thriving. and gloom,” said Schreurs, concerning the participate. There are over 200 comments on COVID-19 is a very serious issue. As of the a waterfall. James Bond is delayed until Stage 4: Existential Crisis- Existential crisis. warp of doing endless discussion posts and knowing that by doing this, we are stopping a With every swipe to refresh Twitter, a new current state of the news. His prefered platforms the post, many of which are the followers’ own writing of this article, there are over 140,000 November. No crowds at March Madness. Italy Stage 5: Creativity Explosion- Alright if Zoom presentations. Not exactly the balanced terrible situation from becoming an absolute surge of quarantine-related quips floods into are TikTok and Twitter. “When someone makes COVID-19 related anagrams. “Toilet paper” confirmed cases in America and over 2,400 is on complete lockdown. My friend’s college you’re stuck, you’re going to do what you’ve lifestyle you’re trying to adapt to. catastrophe. the timeline. Content ranges from not knowing a tweet about graduating in a Roblox world, it’s turns into “alert pot pie,” and “coronavirus” is deaths. I understand why all sports leagues goes fully online. March Madness is canceled always wanted to do! Learn an instrument. Stage 11: Insanity- Last night you listened So call a friend (I know I feel ten times more what day it is, to not feeling compelled to wear a very welcome escape from the situation.” now “various corn.” Even in small, seemingly would rush to shutter the windows, but the entirely. Tom Hanks has been diagnosed with Heck, you’re going to write a symphony. And through David Bowie’s album, “The Rise and invigorated when I do). Enjoy some homemade pants. Social media is bursting with funny takes Ankeny resident Connor Eischen believes inconsequential ways, Cohen is actively decision to do so is still disappointing to me coronavirus. Dordt is now online. finally get to that book you’ve been wanting Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spider from cooking (that’s hopefully better than The on this dark, unprecedented scenario. laughing is as beneficial for us as a solid night encouraging his audience to see things a personally. As with many others I’ve spoken to, the Tom to write. Eat your heart out Michelangelo, you Mars”. At 2am. Twice. What a time to be alive! Commons). Maybe even try something creative. Comedian Alyssa Limperis has been of sleep, right now. different way. March and April are very important times Hanks diagnosis was when things became just found some 5-year-old acrylic paint in your You can’t stop dancing. You clean your room Watch great movies, listen to great albums, read particularly involved in the creation of “When you’re in a fit of laughter, you’re not He notes that hyper-individualism in this in the sporting world. The MLB starts their real for me. And the prospect of not returning closet. and then make it messy again. Why? You don’t great books, play great video-games, pray for quarantine-related content. thinking about anything other than whatever sort of scenario isn’t particularly helpful, and season. The NHL playoffs begin. The NBA to campus coupled with the government Stage 6: Limbo- You roll out of bed. You’re know, why does Ewan McGregor say “Hello the healthcare workers, pray for those afflicted. “It’s almost like we have this shared trauma,” you’re laughing at,” said Eischen. “It makes life comedy helps to soften that perspective. playoffs begin. The NFL holds its combine and lockdowns is when things became surreal. trying to remember what day it is, let alone There” better than anyone who has ever existed? Stay sane. said Limperis, whose most popular tweet less of a marathon.” “The mentality that we’re all in it for draft. For all sports to stop when they were just Surely these sorts of things only happen in write a book. It’s been two weeks. Or has it Stage 12: Acceptance- Who knows? You might even achieve some yet is about befriending a bug in her home Cartoonist Alex Cohen certainly values ourselves leads a lot of people to feel like about to get going or reach the culmination of movies? been two months? Or two years? You’re not This is a tough time for all of us. And some Quarantine Zen by accident. in the hopes of making some sliver of social laughter, but that is not just in light of these they’re struggling alone, and I think relatable But turns out Mr. Covid-19 is a rather really sure… you walk out of the shower. Scroll their seasons is extremely unfortunate. connection. “When something like this happens times. He tries to bring an element of humor humor acts a comforting reminder that we’re all industrious pandemic and has disrupted our through social media in quiet trepidation. Look Due to the lack of live sports, television to the world, we all of the sudden have the exact into everything he does. in this together.” lives quicker than we can often process. And at the clock. It’s already 5pm. What the heck are companies have been scrambling to at least same shared reality… it’s ripe for comedy.” “We as humans tend to take ourselves Comedy -- whether it is used as an escape, to save lives, the best thing we can all do is you doing with your life? put some content out there. Rebroadcasting Some may see nothing inherently funny about so seriously all the time, and I believe it’s a microscope, or a way to connect with one become lazy, shut-in hermits. Stage 7: Hallucinations- You’ve just had a old championship or playoff games has been being stuck inside, but Limperis sees this as an incredibly important to toss some absurdity and another -- is vital, now more than ever. So, With this in mind, I have compiled a map of deeply personal and illuminating conversation common. This has helped fill some of the hole opportunity to give others moments of relief. nonsense into everyday life,” said Cohen, who crack open those old Calvin & Hobbs comic the quarantine experience, to hopefully provide with your cat. You’re 97% sure that your dog left by the lack of sports being played – but it “Most days are so monotonous and dark and runs popular Instagram page Tiny Snek Comics. books in the basement. Put on an episode of some catharsis for what you’ve also experienced just walked down the hall on his hindlegs. hasn’t been entirely effective. There is no way scary. You really need that balance of light.“ “It helps me keep a broader perspective within Parks & Rec. Check out Alyssa Limperis on or a warning for what may be in your future as Something doesn’t seem quite right. Oh yeah, to replace MLB opening day. There is no way That being said, she doesn’t believe comedy my day to day -- what you’re doing right now Twitter, and Tiny we continue in this hibernation season. you left toast in the toaster five hours ago. to replace the Stanley Cup or the NBA Finals. is only a vehicle for evasion and escapism. isn’t that important.” Snek Comics on Instagram. In this era of Stage 1: Denial- This coronavirus thing is Stage 8: Loneliness- You really, really, really The part of the lack of sports that is even more Sometimes, it takes a comedic approach in The most recent posts on the page are a series prolonged isolation, we need laughter to bring starting to sound serious. You’re sure that it will need to see a friend’s face or at least hear their disappointing is that there is no sustainable order to confront a daunting thing even more entitled Quarantown, the seventh installment us all together again. pass in a week or so. Just hunker down for a voice. You can only talk to your pets for so long. replacement anywhere. In the days shortly deeply. little while and things will get under control. Stage 9: Adaptation- You’ve finally started after all American leagues were suspended, “I think the best comedy comes from looking Right? to get into a routine. To stay on task, you’ve there were actually still sports being played into the thing that’s happening and reacting to Stage 2: Frustration- No sports. No wing scheduled out every hour of your life for the elsewhere in the world, just without crowds. it,” said Limperis. “If comedy were full-blown events. No concerts. No theatre. No dinner next two weeks. Your household has had family At midnight one night, I watch an Australian evasion right now, no one would be making League Football game. I had no idea what was parties. No group meals in general. No hanging meetings, laying down how you all will get Photo Credit: Harrison Burns content about the quarantine.” going on. I knew none of the sport’s rules. I just She recalls a dark period of her life, which knew that live sports were on my television. ended up revealing how important humor truly To be able to watch any sport was a legitimate was to her. An athlete’s perspective morale boost. “When my dad was dying, we watched Will we come back? After all the quarantines are over and Seinfeld every night. And that’s helpful to me to everybody is ready to return to everyday life, I remember that, even in the most dire [situation], Yage Wang — Staff Writer the decision of postponing the Olympic, the personally believe that sports will lead the way people do still need to laugh… We’re making number quickly shot up to the thousands. on COVID-19 and help restore everything to the way it was comedy, but that doesn’t mean that I am not On March 25, Howard Wilson, the Chief of Interestingly, although the countries most Caleb Pollema — Staff Writer and grabbed that same baseball that I had just beforehand. After other tragic events, such as aware of how dark this situation is. I’m not Administrative Office of Dordt University, affected by corona virus are all very different, played catch with and threw it into the empty 9/11 or the Boston Marathon Bombing (which, I making light of it, I’m trying to find light in the announced that students will not resume they have all faced criticism for being “God is our refuge and strength, an ever- dirt field next to our house to let off some steam. will admit are very different scenarios from the situation.” in-person classes for the rest of the spring ineffective and having a slow reaction to the present help in trouble.” I told my dad that I had frankly not planned to one we are currently in), sports were essential to This magnetic pull to find the light is a semester. Students will have online classes virus.. Many people are frustrated that the many These words and more have gripped my be home. This wasn’t what I had planned. the post-tragedy recovery. common denominator among many of us. with the corresponding professors. While countries have underestimated the destructivity mind over the past two weeks since being told I was planning on being at school, at practice In the meantime, sports fans are only left to Dordt sophomore Caleb Schreurs used to enjoy of coronavirus and prioritized maintaining daily that my team and I won’t be able to finish our with my team preparing for the upcoming road making this determination, Dordt has shown dream of smelling the hot dogs and freshly Contributed Photo life over the health of the nation. It seems that baseball season. trip to Doane. My dad understood. its priority considerations are student’s health mown grass of Opening Day and of the heart- the immediate actions of responding to the It feels eternity has transpired since the news I have still yet to determine the direct source and education. Though the coronavirus has stopping drama of the NBA and NHL playoffs. coronavirus are ridiculous. Some countries came out two weeks ago. After our final games of my emotion or the reason for my teary eyes. changed many people’s 2020 plans, it also a There is no substitute for the experience of live want to appear composed and don’t take any in Tucson, I headed home with my dad and said But one thing I have been reminded of is that the good time for us to reflect on our lives through sports and the thrill of watching entire cities, Drive-in church this outbreak. precautions for a minor “flu.” goodbye to my teammates. It was one of the process is what you remember not the results. strangest situations I have ever been a part of. I would do anything to set my alarm for 4:45am states, and countries come together to support As of March 30, the number of people who Another frustration is that many people Rochelle VanderHelm — Staff Writer Drive-in church has a few flaws, namely the It didn’t feel like the end of a season or the to get ready for another 5:30am practice after their team. We can only hope that the day comes of his normal slacks. The doves and tweeting are infected with coronavirus is 766,336; the are ignoring advice to social distance and stay flora and fauna. Pedro the dog is about the end of a semester because we hadn’t finished getting only five hours of sleep because I was soon where we will see our favorite teams birds rivaled Morehead for attention while he total death toll worldwide is 36,873. Behind home. Though governments have at various I have always thought that it would be size of a bread box and looks like one of those our season and school will continue online. up late doing homework. I would do anything resume play. greeted us. those horrendous numbers, many families have levels required social-distancing or locked moderately entertaining to go to a drive-in movie caricatures people draw at the fair. His simple I don’t know if I can speak for athletes at Dordt to be back in the weight room getting a workout “If you cannot hear me, then honk” Morehead lost their loved ones. Then we ask ourselves: down areas, many people still ignore the risk of theater. Snuggle up in the car with aspecial existence presents a modest distraction, but or athletes across the country, but it has been in with my team. Just one more practice, just said. how did it get to this point so fast? getting the virus. It is often written off as “the person,lots of blankets, and a thermos of coffee. when you see him toddling across the yard, it’s truly difficult to swallow. I feel for our women’s one more game. “Wait, what?” Mom said. According to the existing data, coronavirus flu” or a “bad cold.” A slightly adjusted version of this would have unbearable. Additionally, the weather must be basketball team that was literally minutes from But here I am at my dining room table writing “Can all the field workers out in the orchards was discovered in December in Wuhan, China. People who are taking precautions seriously me satisfied with snuggles and coffee, forget the good for people to sit quietly in their cars for a beginning the final chapter of their season when this, working on homework for my online hear me?” Morehead said. While the provincial government was trying are sometimes branded cowards or overly movie, I won’t ask for too much. church service. However, in a time like this we they were told that it was simply over. classes, and thinking about another at-home Silence. to uncover the truth, two million civilians left dramatic. Through the coronavirus period, I wasn’t exactly prepared for this alternative are all blessed to see the real, flesh and blood My heart goes out to my five brothers on our workout that I am going to complete in my “Alright.” Wuhan for the Chinese Spring Festival. Soon maybe it is time for us to reflect on the ultimate of no movie and no snuggles, although folding faces of our church family in the cars next to us baseball team and many others in the same boat garage. Morehead preached his sermon, which was after the coronavirus outbreak in China, large purpose and goal for socializing. Author my whole family into one car for over an instead of a pixelated image that moves three across the country that had their careers come to This is the new normal for now. I don’t know excellent. Of course, because my brother was numbers of confirmed cases started popping up and social activist Gloria Jean Watkins once hour is not altogether inconsistent from such seconds late. In the interest of social distancing, an unexpected close. when we will get back to school or back to in the front seat, I had to shove my head out the in Italy and France. On March 17, the French interpreted solitary in a way I found quite an activity. With all the jabbing, scratching, next week we will have music provided by one I got home from Arizona and it felt like I sports across the country. I don’t know which window to see. Did people really like to do this government publicly announced the lockdown applicable for our current situation, “Knowing and wrenching, we were eventually all neatly family. was home for an end-of-semester break. It presents more of a problem: the virus or the for fun? Seems like a lot of work. of the country. But in the US, Trump still how to be solitary is central to the art of loving. tucked away, unable to wiggle, somewhat like felt somewhat normal. I got up the following panic about the virus. I don’t know. encouraged enterprises to reopen by Easter after When we can be alone, we can be with others 6 well-crafted burrito people. My brother, who Monday morning and went to the gym only That’s simply it. I do not know. a short time of people working remotely. Now, without using them as a means of escape.” So, is is 6’3, had the benefit of claiming he could not to find out that most gyms around California I am reminded once again how God uses at the end of March, New York stands out as quarantine really a joy-killer or we are just too possibly crumple his legs into the back seat. He, would probably be closing by Wednesday. sports as a beautiful tool even if that means that the worst-hit area in the United States. In Japan, immature and easily lonely that we desperately of course, sat shotgun. I really didn’t think anything of it until tool can’t be used for a while. the confirmed cases were under 100. But after need other’s presence? I was blessed to have brought a ceramic mug Wednesday. Our governor issued a stay-at- I take comfort in the fact that God is our of coffee that coordinated well with my outfit home order and I, like many other athletes, was refuge. He is God of the hills and He is God in and a nude sweater that hides coffee stains well. not only left without a season to finish, but also the valleys. Since I am under a “shelter in place” order I without a place to train. I don’t know when Opening Day for Major must utilize any opportunity in the public eye At this news, I went over to an old coach’s League Baseball will come. I don’t know when to do myself up. I have never before seen my house to grab some mismatched free weights to I will be able to get back to normal training. mother wear slippers to church. Drive-in church continue to get workouts in as best as I could. I don’t know when I will see my teammates comes with many firsts. As soon as I got home, I decided to play catch again. We drove in and were ushered to our seats, or with my dad. The last time I threw was in I don’t know, but God does. And THAT is my rather, a patch of dust the size of our vehicle. It Arizona with my boys, with my team. peace in these uncertain times. was cool, so Pastor Dave Morehead wore a suit I finished throwing and decided to get a Maybe as an athlete you can empathize with jacket. I do not ever remember him wearing a workout in. Then it hit me, as soon as I started some of my feelings. These are my thoughts. suit jacket for a normal Sunday before, but he working out, tears slowly ran down my face. I The thoughts of any athlete. Real and raw. tastefully balanced it with a pair of jeans instead Contributed Photo was sad. I was confused. I was angry. I went Thanks for reading. Contributed Photo Contributed Photo page 8 Back Page (cont.) Canceled on the The Weeknd album review court continued from page 1 Caleb M.S. — Staff Writer stereo switches, a build in the synths emerges. A Every player shot a layup to close out their old AAU teammates who had their own seasons pulsing beat is added, the synths intensify, and season. upended as well. Across the nation, student like a brick of cocaine to the face, a heavy synth Having emerged from the locker rooms in athletes became collateral damage taken in note drops- pushing forward Abel’s vocals equal bewilderment, the Southeastern team the name of necessary precaution. For seniors and intensifying the track. It is moments like milled around the arena as well. One person like Prewitt, many had played their last game these that justify the emphasis on instrumental scrimmaged one-on-one against her brother. without even knowing it. bits throughout the album, though the lyrical “We’re both dressed. Do you guys want to “I hope that once all the pain goes away, I can content is strong as well. play?” Prewitt asked a Southeastern player, realize my career was great.” Prewitt said. “I The Weeknd moves from sorrowful, to only half-kidding. think we can call [the season] a success just disillusioned, to hardened across the 56-minute She nodded back, jokingly. because we set the standard for ourselves even runtime of After Hours. What begins as . . . But when a group of Defenders struck up higher than last year.” mournful lyrics in “Too Late,” becomes a game of knockout, Southeastern joined in one During the 2019/2020 season, the Defenders desensitized by “Faith,” only halfway through by one until both teams were fully lined up in etched their name into the record books with the album. Cocaine-related bars increase in competition. an all-time-high 24-win season. They also won frequency around this mark, but a common “It was really fun to see these women find joy their first GPAC conference tournament game theme is the singer’s awareness of the pain in the game they loved to play since they were and scored a repeat appearance at nationals. he has caused for others. “I’m losing my little kids, find joy in the situation.” Harmsen All this in mind, Harmsen views his team’s Contributed Photo religion,” the singer notes in faith, but by “Save said. commitment to each other as their truest Your Tears,” this self-loathing becomes more Amid the hysteria and heartbreak of the achievement. Abel Tesfaye, better known by his stage name accepted and redirected into the portrayal of the COVID-19 epidemic, many seek out the silver “Our seniors played for three different head The Weeknd, returned this month to the forefront jaded anti-hero. lining, the sources of light and positivity. When coaches, stuck with the program, and absolutely of the R&B stage with his newest album After Hours’ real achievement is in the the Dordt and Southeastern women came were agents of change because they had to be.” After Hours. The project is a 56-minute-long cohesive aesthetic permeating all through the together in their brokenness and sorrow, they Harmsen said. collection of 80s synth-pop inspired cocaine- album. Similar to what made Panic! At the found theirs. After 88 practices, 32 games, and 6 months driven sex ballads, and perfectly culminates the Disco’s Death Of A Bachelor so impressive, “I have never felt so connected to hundreds of dedication to the game, the Defender women anti-hero hedonistic persona the artist has been each song belongs with the next in more than of other girls in other states from around the learned how to serve each other and took home building across his previous projects. thematic content. The futuristic, yet retro-space country.” Prewitt said. a stellar season in the process. Not even a global Every song on After Hours could only be on age; soulful, yet emotionally distant musical After returning to the hotel, Prewitt texted her pandemic could take that away. After Hours, a quality which is lacking on most elements of After Hours are timeless, and this other main stream acts’ albums. Each song is album stands a better chance than any previous clearly part of a cohesive whole, and thematic Weeknd album of solidifying Abel as a standout and technical elements carry through each musician. individual song. Abel is at his most developed in After Hours, and it is clear the most recent SONG BREAKDOWN (cont.) Concert Choir tour album is more polished than any previous Will Listen to Again: work. Thematic elements from Starboy continued from page 2 Alone Again crosspollinated into After Hours, in only the each other and the opportunity to sing in unity. Faith “I wasn’t at peace with leaving at first, but the best way. Early themes of a villainous aesthetic Moreover, they celebrated the God about whom tour had been such an incredible and amazing present in Starboy come to fruition in After Blinding Lights they sang so joyfully. To quote the closing song experience that I was so thankful for it all,” Hours in “Hardest to Love,” and “Save Your After Hours of the tour: “Gladly for aye we adore Him!” Hoekstra said. Tears.” Until I Bleed Out “We sang and shouted praise and worship to Musically, After Hours contains similar God on that trip,” Zuidema said. Delightfully Meh: elements to any Weeknd album. Driving bass Snowchild Concert Choir spent nearly a week performing lines, rapid synths, and reverb-heavy vocals in concerts, church services, and assemblies at permeate each song on the album. From the Escape From LA thirteen different locations. Although their long- very beginning of the album in “Alone Again,” Burn It Down: anticipated tour and overall semester ended listeners are treated to an aesthetic introduction N/A much earlier than expected, they maintained the to the album around the two-minute mark. Dark Horse: same goal. Within the din of synth runs, airy vocals, and “I think I will always be a little sad that my Hardest to Love last [choir tour] got “cut short,” but ultimately, since our goal is to be Christ’s ambassadors, I think we accomplished that and more,” Blauw said. “It could not have been more complete.” Quarantine watchlist Throughout their tour, the choir celebrated Photo Credit: Dordt University Music Department Facebook Zach Dirksen— Staff Writer engaging films of the last decade, and a surefire good way to pass the time during this lockdown. Bored? Tired of sitting around doing nothing INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST all day? Looking for something different to CRUSADE: Film can be an escape, and you watch? Here’s some movies to watch during need one. Maybe bring the family along with (cont.) Tables turned for the next 4-6 weeks, at least, give or take. Who you. I can think of no better way of escapism knows? than a rip-roaring adventure with everyone’s REAR WINDOW: Sitting home alone needn’t favorite Nazi-punching archaeologist. Join the theatre be boring. In this 1954 classic, an injured, Indy, Indy’s dad, and the rest of the crew in the continued from page 4 aware of his role as a director. apartment-bound photographer thinks he’s quest for the Holy Grail. Last Crusade might than if the show had come out this April. “I have “It’s taught me to be more conscious of the witnessed a murder from across the courtyard not be the best Indiana Jones movie, but it’s by hope for Break of Day. Though the situation is needs of my audience and my actors,” Dirksen of his apartment complex. When few people far the most fun. not ideal, God will see us through,” Baljeu said. said. “The director’s place is sort of an in- believe him, he takes it upon himself to solve RAISING ARIZONA: Sometimes you just “I’m currently still in a grieving process, but between audience and performer. I needed to be the mystery. Rear Window is one of Alfred need to laugh. Things are dark and crazy out I’m hanging in there.” able to Hitchcock’s most engrossing stories, and there. Sometimes the only way to overcome Zach Dirksen is feeling the effect of know what my actors needed to be doing, Jimmy Stewart’s performance is a career best. it to watch two rednecks steal a baby to raise his Shakespearean show, Rosencrantz & but also what the audience would need to see MY DINNER WITH ANDRE: Do you miss as their own. Raising Arizona boasts one of Gildenstern, being cancelled for the season. onstage to get the story.” those long, philosophical late-night talks with Nicolas Cage’s best performances (yes, they “I found out about it around the same time as The theatre has provided these students with you friends? Ever get so lost in a conversation exist), as well as a complete and fun crime when choir tour was cut short and spring break ways to tie up their projects this semester, even that you find yourself completely immersed in caper. Plus, it’;s a Coen Brothers movie. You was extended,” Dirksen said, “so all of those if they miss out on getting to be on the stage the words of another person. Such experiences can’t go wrong there. thrown together really put me out for a couple itself. “This was supposed to be my big final are perfectly replicated in My Dinner With MARY POPPINS: Guys, sometimes you just of days.” project for theatre,” he said. “It kinda leaves Andre. The film, made up entirely by a want something to make you feel good. Mary While disappointed, he clung to the hope my theatre experience at Dordt with an anti- conversation between two friends who haven’t Poppins does that for me. Maybe it will for you that the show, while temporarily postponed, climactic ending.” seen each other in a while, is amazing. The too. Tiger King: Okay, okay, it’s not a movie. might yet go on. Even if he won’t be able to get “It’s disappointing to not see all the hard work camera work is minimal, the setting singular, But have you seen it? It’s insane. Like literally everyone back together to have another go at it, put into these productions thus far be finished but so much imagery abounds in the dialogue bonkers. This Netflix docu-series follows the he wishes to direct again—either this show or and put up before an audience,” theatre faculty and the performances. Definitely check this one exploits of private zoo owners and big cat another project—sometime in the future. Laura Andersen said. “Having to be apart and out. breeders in the US, taking special focus on Joe Directing has brought Dirksen a greater not having the same sense of community that’s THE MARTIAN: Quarantine can make you Exotic, a gay libertarian polygamist redneck understanding of the collaborative process. so big a piece of the department is difficult.” feel like you’ve been cut off from civilization, who at one point owned the largest collection “I can’t just tell my actors where to stand or As of now, Dordt’s theatre arts is still left completely to your own devices to survive of live tigers in the United States, and is now my designers what their work should look like,” communicating via canvas announcements, and keep going. Now imagine if you got stuck serving a 22-year prison sentence for murder- Dirksen said. “I really enjoyed bouncing ideas emails, and hopefully a virtual theatre meeting. on another planet, by yourself. Do you get for-hire. And that doesn’t even begin to scratch off people and hearing their ideas as well, all Theatre activity scholarship interviews will take depressed? NO! You suck it up and start a the surface of how weird this show can get. working together to make something.” place soon. And there is always next season to potato farm, just like Matt Damon. The Martian If anything can make you forget about the As well, working with actors has made him plan for. remains one of the most entertaining and Coronavirus, it’s this.