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Whatever you are interested in, we've got it covered.

Inkspot

Whatever you are interested in, we've got it covered.

Inkspot

Brantley Dumas II

Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter

Brantley Dumas is a senior at Normal Community High School. He is the president Black Student Union and is on the varsity bowling team. He is a second-year Staff Reporter on the Inkspot.

If I were to win a million dollars I would definitely pay for college, then buy all the shoes and clothes I could ever want.

I enjoy fashion, making and listening to music and anime. So, if you like any of those we can probably be friends.

My biggest pet peeve is when people chew too loud. Gross.

All content by Brantley Dumas II
Inkspotlight – Victor Rodas on his musical passion, process

Inkspotlight – Victor Rodas on his musical passion, process

Inkspotlight – Ep. 1: The 2024 Ironman winner sat down with the Inkspot and talked all things music [video]
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle May 21, 2024
Victor Rodas, the 2024 Ironman winner, sat down with the Inkspot, talking all things music and playing for us [video]
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Inkspotlight – T-Dot talks his beginnings and ‘New Beginnings’

Inkspotlight – T-Dot talks his beginnings and ‘New Beginnings’

Inkspotlight - Ep. 2: Terrion Darnell shares how 'Rapstar' led to his musical aspirations [video]
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle May 20, 2024
T-Dot performs 'New Beginnings' off his sophomore release
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Maddie Ummel lead Community at the plate in average at .458 and extra-base hits with four doubles.
However, the team has struggled to hit with runners in scoring position, stranding 50 baserunners.

Softball struggles to find momentum

Iron struggle to convert baserunners to runs; Pitcher Lindsay Leathery sidelined with injury
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Apr 4, 2024

The 2-6 softball team’s woes continued as pitcher Lindsay Leathery suffered an injury in March 26’s 10-5 loss to the East Peoria Raiders (5-1). Leathery suffered a dislocated kneecap, causing a “kissing contusion,” contusions of both surfaces of the knee joint, and a subchondral fracture in...

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Mascot Madness: Round one

Mascot Madness: Round one

What if the NCAA March Madness Champion was determined not by athletes on the hardwood but mascots battling it out?
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Mar 21, 2024

Welcome to the wild world of March Madness, where the energy is unrivaled, brackets are broken and upsets are the stuff of legend. As fans gear up for the thrilling 68-team NCAA championship tournament, we're reminded that victory demands more than just skill on the court—it requires grit, resilience,...

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The Bison logo, according to the Jan. 24 press release "pay[s] homage to the rich history of the Bloomington-Normal community... inspired by former President Lincoln and ... Route 66."
One thing Bloomington has struggled to establish is a rich hockey history. 
Image Courtesy: Bloomington Bison

Bloomington Bison bring hockey back to Grossinger Motors Arena

Bison can usher in new era of community hockey interest
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Mar 14, 2024

Hockey returns to Grossinger Motors Arena for the 2024-25 East Coast Hockey League season, as the ECHL announced expansion team The Bloomington Bison.  The upstart Bison is the ECHL’s 30th franchise, joining hockey’s “premier developmental league.”  The Bison are the fifth franchise...

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Inside the Paint: Talking March Madness, post-season Ironmen basketball

[Inside the Paint podcast Ep. 3]

Inside the Paint is a roundtable discussion where the Inkspot’s basketball beat reporters dive deep into the Ironmen boys and girls basketball seasons. Zachary Knox-Doyle, B.J. Dumas, Bella Green and Ben Kerber offer a courtside pass to all things Ironmen basketball. Join us as we break down...

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While over 100 teams are set to participate in the inaugural season of flag football, Community isn't likely to field a team until the 2025-26 school year. 
Community is one of over 35 teams that looks to participate in the IHSA's sophomore flag football season, along with other Big 12 schools Bloomington and Urbana. 
The '25-26 season would see six Big 12 schools offering the sport.

Image Courtesy: IHSA

Community weighs participation as IHSA introduces Girls Flag Football; Financial, interest hurdles remain

Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Feb 28, 2024

With the Illinois High School Association announcing next fall’s inaugural girls flag football season, the question at Community is: “When will the Iron field a team?”  The answer remains unknown.  While over 100 schools have committed to fielding a team next season, including the Big 12...

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Top 5 Disney sidekicks

Top 5 Disney sidekicks

Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Feb 13, 2024

Everyone needs someone to help them navigate life’s trials and tribulations: a trusty companion, a sidekick, a wingman… Think of them as the unsung heroes behind the scenes, offering sage advice, comic relief or simply a shoulder to lean on when times get tough.  Batman has Robin. Spongebob has...

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The Up-Beat – Ep. 1 – Spotify discoveries, a daily dose of Dr. Zbrozek, Pizza Olympics & bowling balls

The Up-Beat – Ep. 1 – Spotify discoveries, a daily dose of Dr. Zbrozek, Pizza Olympics & bowling balls

Welcome to "The Up-Beat," where each week a group of Inkspot reporters take a break from breaking news to share what's been making them smile this week. B.J. Dumas, Lyra Townsend, Terrion Darnell and Bayli Ferris share what is making them happy this week.  

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Digital Illustration // Mr. Brad Bovenkerk

Going to the mat for pro wrestling

Wrestling's real entertainment value
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Jan 26, 2024

Few phrases have echoed louder in the ears of wrestling enthusiasts than “Wrestling is fake.” It’s a statement more haunting than The Undertaker, one that casts just as large of a shadow over the world of professional wrestling. Professional wrestling has consistently captivated audiences of...

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Witzig v. Feeney – Battle of basketball brains [video]

Normal Community's head basketball coaches face off in this rapid-fire test of their basketball knowledge
BJ Dumas Jan 26, 2024
Normal Community's head basketball coaches Mr. Dave Witzig and Mr. Dave Feeney face off in this rapid-fire test of their basketball knowledge.
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Inside the Paint: Talking Ironmen basketball heading into the 4th quarter of the regular season [podcast]

[Inside the Paint podcast Ep. 2]

Inside the Paint is a roundtable discussion where the Inkspot’s basketball beat reporters dive deep into the Ironmen boys and girls basketball seasons. Zachary Knox-Doyle, B.J. Dumas, Lucas Drengwitz, Bella Green and Ben Kerber offer a courtside pass to all things Ironmen basketball, breaking down...

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Epic finales and epic failures: A tale of triumph, tragedy in TV shows finales

Epic finales and epic failures: A tale of triumph, tragedy in TV shows finales

BJ Dumas takes a look at some of the best and worst television series' final episodes
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Jan 11, 2024

A TV series finale may very well be the most important episode of a show’s entire run, making or breaking the entire journey. Regardless of how captivating the episodes or seasons have been, the show must stick the landing. The ultimate test of a show’s legacy lies in its final episode–the moment...

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Inside the Paint: Midcourt Check-In – A look at the Ironmen basketball seasons so far [podcast]

[Inside the Paint podcast Ep. 1]

Inside the Paint is a roundtable discussion where the Inkspot's basketball beat reporters dive deep into the Ironmen boys and girls basketball seasons. Zachary Knox-Doyle, B.J. Dumas, Bella Green and Ben Kerber offer a courtside pass to all things Ironmen basketball, breaking down the season so far...

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[Video] On the Spot: Unwrapped – Students, staff share their top Spotify streams of 2023

In this edition of On the Spot, the Inkspot asked: "What's on your Spotify Wrapped?" [video]
Spotify Wrapped, the streaming service’s annual recap of users’ most-played artists and songs, hit the app on Wednesday, Nov. 29. So the Inkspot hit the halls, asking students staff share their top Spotify streams of 2023
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Epic Games rewinds time with Season OG, reignites Fortnite fervor

Epic Games rewinds time with Season OG, reignites Fortnite fervor

Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Nov 30, 2023

Flashback to 2018. You step off the school bus, itching to get home and power up your PlayStation. There’s one word on every middle schooler’s lips. One thing on every teen boy’s mind. Fortnite. The mere mention of the new Battle Pass, skin drops, weapon...

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On the Spot: This or That Thanksgiving

Zachary Knox-Doyle and Brantley Dumas II Nov 27, 2023
Zach Knox-Doyle and B.J. Dumas II took to the hallways to quiz students, staff on their Thanksgiving preferences in this "this or that" video.
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Coach Drengwitz recaps the IHSA Semifinals game, looks back at the 2023 season [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz discussing the Semifinals loss to Downers Grove North, and looked back at the 12-1 season
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Nov 23, 2023

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The Ironmen are back in the IHSA Semifinals for the first time in over 15 seasons after a stunning comeback win over Glenbard East. 
They take on the 10-2 Downers Grove North Trojans on the road Saturday. 
Photo Courtesy of: Steph Mazanowski //
MazPix Photography // Mazpix.com

Undefeated Ironmen gear up for IHSA Football Semifinals showdown with Downers Grove North Trojans

The Ironmen (12-0) return to the IHSA Football Semifinals for the first time since 2007, traveling to take on the Downers Grove North Trojans (10-2) on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 2 p.m. Last week, the Iron (1) battled back from a two-touchdown deficit to secure their spot in this week’s contest, while...

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Coach Drengwitz previews the IHSA Semifinals, recaps win over Glenbard [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz previewing the Semifinals matchup versus Downers Grove North, looking back at the comeback win against Glenbard East
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Nov 16, 2023

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Six of Normal Community's student athletes signed their commitment letters to play Division I and Division II athletics next year after school Nov. 7 in the cafeteria.

6 Iron athletes sign National Letters of Intent

Check out the Inkspot's Q & A with the athletes and their career highlights
Zachary Knox-Doyle and Brantley Dumas II Nov 10, 2023

Six Ironmen are headed to college to continue their athletic careers, signing National Letters Of Intent on Thursday, Nov 8. Recognized at the after-school event were four future Division I athletes: Oregon commit Ali Ince (womens track & field), future Louisville Cardinal Ethan Eberle (baseball),...

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After a string of shutouts, the Iron defense surrendered 30 points last week. 
This week the defense is tasked with stopping Glenbard East's explosive running game.

Ironmen take on Glenbard East Rams in IHSA 7A Football Quarterfinals [game preview]

The Ironmen punched their ticket to the IHSA 7A Football Quarterfinals for the first time since 2015 with a 31-30 overtime victory over the Bradley-Bourbonnais Boilermakers Saturday at Dick Tharpe Field. For the second time in two years, one point would decide the Ironmen and head coach Mr. Jason...

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Ironmen head to 7A Football Quarterfinals with 31-30 OT win vs. Bradley-Bourbonnais Boilermakers [video recap]

The Ironmen head to the IHSA 7A Football Quarterfinals for the first time since 2015 with a 31-30 overtime victory over the Bradley-Bourbonnais Boilermakers Saturday at Dick Tharpe Field. Watch the highlights and the video recap of the second round playoff win.

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Coach Drengwitz recaps Ironmen’s 31-30 playoff victory over Bradley-Bourbonnais [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz discussing the Iron's overtime win against the Boilermakers

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Coach Drengwitz previews Ironmen playoff contest vs. Bradley-Bourbonnais [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz ahead of the Iron's match up against the Boilermakers

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Coach Drengwitz previews Ironmen’s playoff clash vs. Argo [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz ahead of the Iron's match up against the Argo Argonauts
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Oct 26, 2023

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Connections, the newest of New York Times' game offerings, is the best game you aren't playing, according to the Inkspot's B.J. Dumas. 
Screenshot // New York Times

Finding ‘Connections’: the best game you aren’t playing

New NYT game is all fun and (word) games
Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Oct 18, 2023

It’s seemingly simple. A 16-word grid. Four chances to find the four common threads that link four of the words. But what seems simple on the surface soon has you wanting to forfeit in frustration.    Connections are the key to the New York Times newest game, aptly named Connections,...

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Based on Japan's highest-selling manga series in history, "One Piece" is a legendary high-seas adventure unlike any other.

Netflix’s ‘One Piece’ live-action adaptation sets sail: A treasure for anime fans [review]

Brantley Dumas II, Senior Staff Reporter Oct 6, 2023

Just how challenging it is to nail a live-action adaptation of anime? Take the 2009’s “Dragonball Evolution,” a trainwreck of a film that even Shenron couldn’t wish away. Or “Avatar: The Last Airbender” (2010), a beloved series that was butchered in its live-action adaptation, the result...

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The Iron are 4-0 in the Big 12, the only team undefeated in conference play.

Ironmen eye playoff berth as they face Danville Vikings in conference showdown

The Ironmen (5-0, 4-0) sit atop the Big 12 Conference standings in sole possession of first place after last week’s 34-0 shutout win over the Raiders of Bloomington. The Champaign Centennial Chargers fell to 4-1 in conference play, losing to the Danville Vikings last Friday 25-12. With a road...

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Pre-game interview with Ironmen head coach Mr. Jason Drengwitz [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz ahead of the Iron's Week 5 match up versus the Bloomington Raiders
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Sep 20, 2023

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Pre-game interview with Ironmen head coach Mr. Jason Drengwitz [video]

The Inkspot sat down with Coach Drengwitz ahead of the Iron's Week 4 match up versus the Peoria Lions
Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Sep 16, 2023

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Mar'Quan Gary pulls in a 27 yard touchdown. Gary had four receptions for 86 yards and scored on a nine-yard run in the season opener.
Photo Courtesy of:

[Video] Ironmen dominate defending 4A Champs in team-effort

Five Ironmen found the end zone in Friday’s 54-14 rout of defending 4A State Champions Sacred Heart-Griffin. Tailbacks Tommy Davis and Calen Taylor and wideout Mar’Quan Gary were key offensive contributors in the statement victory over the Cyclones, scoring two touchdowns apiece in the season...

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Unit 5's text selection policy identifies the criteria on which the district's libraries adopt books for circulation. The policy seeks to provided students with texts that: support and enrich students’ personal interests and learning; meet high standards in literary, artistic, and aesthetic quality; are appropriate for the age, emotional development, ability level, learning styles, and social, emotional, and intellectual development of the students for whom the materials are selected; incorporate accurate and authentic factual content from authoritative sources; earn favorable reviews in standard reviewing sources; exhibit a high degree of potential user appeal and interest; and represent differing viewpoints on controversial issues. provide a global perspective and promote diversity by including materials by authors and illustrators of all cultures.

Illinois outlaws book bans, adds ‘another layer of protection’ to Unit 5 policy

Brantley Dumas II and Zachary Knox-Doyle Aug 21, 2023

Illinois became the first state in the nation to prohibit book bans on June 12 when Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 2789 into law.  Illinois public libraries that restrict or ban materials based on “partisan or doctrinal” disapproval will lose their eligibility for state funding...

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35 potential employers attended the College and Career Center's career fair on May 3, highlighting some of the employment opportunities available to students post-high school.

College and Career Center’s career fair showcases over 30 employment paths

BJ Dumas and Zachary Knox-Doyle May 11, 2023

The College and Career Center hosted over 30 potential employers during May 3’s half-day. The event, organized by CCC counselor Mrs. Karrin Hawkins, showcased a variety of career paths available to students. Representatives from 35 organizations–local businesses, trades, military branches and...

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The boys track and field team avenged its second place finish to the West Wildcats last season, defeating the defending champs by three points to claim Community's first Intercity title in over a decade.

Intercity champs: Girls win third straight crosstown title; Boys secure first win in over a decade

Community’s boys and girls track and field teams can both boast the title “Intercity champs” after winning the annual crosstown competition at Bloomington High School on April 25.   Girls Track & Field The girls team, led by Ali Ince, defended their title for the third consecutive...

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The district will go forward with the implementation of the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program at both high schools, a program that offers low-cost nutritious, balanced meals at both high schools. 
The program offers the district a funding source through the government.

Unit 5 School Board reverses majority of budget cuts for 2023-24

BJ Dumas and Zachary Knox-Doyle May 1, 2023

The McLean County Unit 5 School Board unanimously reversed the majority of cuts set to take effect in the 2023-24 school year at a special board meeting April 11.  The district will continue implementing several budget measures approved at the Jan. 31 board meeting, including limiting the number...

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JV girls basketball coach Mr. Mike Goodwin addresses Community during a December game against Urbana. 
While Community may be able to increase the number of athletes on a JV roster, varsity girls basketball coach Dave Feeney said, “That means there's more kids and less adult supervision, less instruction, less coaching,”

Community coaches express concerns over athletic program cuts

To reduce the district’s multi-million-dollar budget deficit, the School Board voted to eliminate junior high and freshman athletics and reduce the number of competitors attending out-of-town contests. Those cuts, several veteran Community coaches believe, are detrimental. While the cuts will...

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Statement Games: Senior running-back goes all out in ‘Pink Out’ Games

Statement Games: Senior running-back goes all out in ‘Pink Out’ Games

BJ Dumas, Staff Writer Dec 1, 2022

Six touchdowns.  Three over 50 yards.  For the past two years in the Week 9 action, the Ironmen’s Chris Taylor recorded standout performances on the gridiron.  Performances impressive enough to draw attention from schools like Illinois State, where Taylor will take the field for the Redbirds...

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Cross country teams take 2nd at Intercity

Cross country teams take 2nd at Intercity

For the second straight year, Community’s boys and girls varsity cross country teams finished 2nd at the Intercity meet at Maxwell Park, Thursday, Sep. 22.   Girls Varsity  Normal West won the girl’s race, with the Wildcats finishing 7 points ahead of Community. Four Community runners...

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