In this week’s episode of Second Look, WZND’s Rachael Deerfield and Jason Zaehler recapped the biggest local and campus stories of the week. The show opened with a look at Bloomington-Normal’s Illinois Art Station and its free programming for children, followed by coverage of an anti-ICE protest on the Illinois State University campus. The episode also featured a preview of the ISU Planetarium’s new show Messengers of Time and Space, an interview with WZND’s Ben Webster on how ISU’s heating plant is handling the frigid start to the year, and wrapped up with the latest from Redbird sports.
Every fourth Saturday of the month, the Bloomington-Normal, Illinois Art Station hosts free open house events for children and families. The Art Station provides fine arts programming for those who may not have access to arts education due to school budget cuts or other limitations. WZND’s Jacie Hinton spoke with Illinois Art Station Manager Nicole Learned about how the program is expanding access to the arts in the community. (01:12)
On Tuesday, January 20th, an anti–Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) rally took place on the campus of Illinois State University. As similar protests continue across the country, WZND’s Kaitlyn Witas spoke with demonstrators to hear why they are speaking out and what changes they hope to see. (06:59)
The Illinois State University Planetarium is hosting Messengers of Time and Space, running weekends from January 23 through February 28. WZND’s Jade Roth interviewed Professor Thomas Willmitch about the show and what audiences can expect to learn about the universe and cosmic discovery. (08:26)
After the break, WZND’s Ben Webster joined the show to discuss the extreme cold impacting much of the country and how Illinois State’s heating plant has prepared to keep campus buildings warm and operational during the severe winter weather.
After the second break, Rachael and Jason broke down the defensive battle between Illinois State and Northern Iowa men’s basketball. The hosts also recapped recent Redbird performances and previewed what’s ahead for ISU athletics.