Western Courier | December 8th, 2017

Opinions: Outgoing editors say farewell

Sports: Steroids have a place in professional sports.

Sports: Women continue to dominate

Friday, December 8, 2017 - Vol. 118 Issue 43

JIMMY PIERSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER

By Isaiah Herard news editor

Nearly every two minutes, someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted. An alarming number of sexual assaults occur on college campuses.

Sexual violence is prominent in today’s culture. There are often violent rape scenes on major TV sitcoms that enforce rape culture, including the daily stories of sexual assaults on college campuses. President of the United States Donald Trump has also been publicly accused of sexually assaulting more than 15 women and was recorded boasting the fact he grabs women in their vaginal area without consent.

Western Illinois University is not exempt from the sexual assault epidemic plaguing the U.S. and their surrounding college campuses; however, university President Jack Thomas ensures his administration are going above and beyond to enforce preventative legislation.

“While Western Illinois University has had sexual assault and anti-harassment policies in place for many years, we were not doing enough, taking a strong enough stand, to tell perpetrators of assault and other acts of sexual misconduct that we will not tolerate these offenses,” said Thomas during his Take Back the Night proclamation. While safety tips and resources certainly have a place and must be

promoted, colleges and their administrators, faculty and staff must take a stronger stance against the perpetrators of sexual assault and other sexual misconduct.”

According to the National Institute of Justice, nearly 3 percent of all college women were victims of either completed or attempted sexual assault throughout an academic year. The mere 3 percent translates to 30 sexual crimes for every 1,000 women students.

Like victims of other violent crimes such as murder and domestic violence, victims of sexual assault come from diverse demographics. Age, race, religion, sexual orientation and gender specifications are irrelevant.

According to the National Institute of Justice, 3.7 million women a year experience unwanted sexual activity, and each year an estimated 300,000 women are sexually assaulted-a sexual assault occurs every 1.3 minutes in the U.S. While majority of sexual assault victims are violated by persons they know, victims are often sexually assaulted by a spouse, partner, date, acquaintance or a stranger.

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in five women and one in 16 men are sexually assaulted while in college. More than 90 percent of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report the assault.

Although the rates of sexual crimes are alarming across the country and Thomas recognizes sexual assault as a significant problem on Western’s campus, Lindsey May, Lieutenant of Macomb’s Police Department said the sexual crime rate is inconsistent and barely occurs.

“Meth is the most prominent here in Macomb,” May said. “We had operation ICE and have been busting meth more frequently. “As for sexual assault, we get some here and there and the problem disappears and reappears again. I don’t encounter sexual assault as often.”

To follow the mandates of the Violence Against Women Act, Western approved new legislation that enforces laws prohibiting sexual misconduct. The Title IX Sexual Misconduct Policy focuses on prohibiting sexual discrimination which includes sexual assault/rape, sexual harassment and stalking.

“It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure our campus, our community and our society as a whole is safe,” said Thomas in his proclamation.

“People need to speak up when they see, or hear about, sexual misconduct being committed. We all need to be apart of the solution.”

People who have been sexually assaulted or are experiencing sexual harassment can contact the Office of Public Safety at (309) 2981949 or Western’s Title IX coordinator at (309) 298-1977 or Title IX@wiu.edu.

WIU.EDU

Western Illinois University President Jaclk Thomas (top) signed a proclaimation that recognizes April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

K-9 sniffs out psilocin mushrooms

MCDONOUGH COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE

Preston M. Bullard, 19, of Galesburg was lodged in McDonough County Jail on December 5 for possession of a controlled substance (psilocin mushrooms).

By Isaiah Herard news editor

McDonough County Sheriff Rick VanBrooker reported the arrest of Preston M. Bullard, 19, of Galesburg on Dec. 6.

On Dec. 5 at 12:40 p.m. a McDonough County Sheriff’s Office deputy stopped a vehicle containing Bullard for speeding on Route 9 at 550 East. The deputy had reasonable suspicion of

criminal activity and the Sheriff’s Office canine was called to the scene and sniffed the vehicle.

Deputies confiscated 31 grams of psilocin mushrooms, fewer than 10 grams of marijuana, and two pipes with burnt Cannabis residue. The Mushrooms were found hidden in the back seat where Bullard was sitting.

Bullard was lodged in the McDonough County Jail charged with Possession of a controlled substance (psilocin mushrooms).

2

Friday, December 8, 2017

NEWS

WesternCourier.com

JIMMY PIERSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER

By Emily Stieren assistant news editor

Western Illinois University’s All Volunteer Effort (WAVE) is joining forces with the Salvation Army to give students the opportunity to provide gifts to children of all ages this Holiday season with their Angel Tree Program.

Participants can purchase items for the age groups 0 to 24 months, 3 to 9 and 10 to 14 years old. All donations must be turned in by Dec. 12 at 4:30 p.m. to the Office of Student Activities (OSA).

To take part in this generous program, everyone is welcome to take a paper angel, which

WC Located on the third floor of the Heating Plant Annex on the south end of campus across from Sherman Hall.

Mail: 1 University Circle, WIU, Macomb, IL 61455 Phone: 309-298-1876 Fax: 309-298-2309 Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays E-mail: micour@wiu.edu Member: Illinois College Press Association, National Association College Press

represents what age group to buy for, off one of the trees in the University Union.

“The trees are donated to us by the Union, so it’s actually a giant collaboration event,” said WAVE advisor and graduate assistant Enrique Boche.

“The Union, volunteer programs, OSA and the Salvation Army are all involved in this program. People just need to come, register at the service desk down stairs (of the University Union) and bring their gifts later. After the 16 days, Salvation Army comes and picks up the toys, and they get them out to the kids that usually wouldn’t get them.”

According to Boche, the Angel Tree program allows students

and other participants to fully realize the significance of giving to those in need, especially during this time of year.

“I think the main purpose of this program is to give during the Holidays,” Boche said. “I think a lot of people take their children to get tags so that they understand the importance of giving to someone, especially to someone less fortunate than themselves. It can be a big learning opportunity.”

Boche said that most Western students do not notice the hardships residents face, even in the small city of Macomb, so it is important to contribute to the cause.

“Our community is small, and I think the students don’t

STAFF MEMBERS editor-in-chief Nicholas Ebelhack NA-Ebelhack@wiu.edu news editor Isaiah Herard IA-Herard@wiu.edu assistant news editor Emily Stieren EN-Stieren@wiu.edu opinions editor Shannon Norris SA-Norris@wiu.edu sports editor Mat McClanahan MD-McClanahanw@wiu.edu assistant sports editor Devon Greene DJ-Greene@wiu.edu edge editor Alyssa Hohman AM-Hohman@wiu.edu copy editor Joshua Defibaugh JG-Defibaugh@wiu.edu proofreader Valerie Clemens VN-Clemens@wiu.edu

proofreader Alexis Lowe AL-Lowe@wiu.edu proofreader Tacuma Venzant T-Venzant@wiu.edu photo editor Angel Strack AE-Strack@wiu.edu assistant photo editor Pedro Avila PJ-Avila@wiu.edu production manager Jessie Matias JM-Garcia@wiu.edu business manager Faith Rucker F-Rucker@wiu.edu advertising manager Patryk Mazur P-Mazur@wiu.edu adviser Will Buss WJ-Buss@wiu.edu

realize the homelessness and poverty that happens in this town,” Boche said. “There is a lot of it. It’s just that we don’t see it on this side of town. I think this is a big opportunity for students to say, ‘I’m doing something, I’m helping and I see that this is an issue.

That there are needy people even in such a small town like Macomb.’”

The Angel Tree Program is open to everyone to participate. Last year, there were 120 donations to needy kids in the area, and the committee is hoping for an increase this year. Boche said that the program makes it easy for college students to donate.

“I think students should take

the time to participate,” Boche said. “It’s simple, it’s fast, you don’t have to spend a lot of money and you’ll really be helping someone, a child, who really would not be able to get presents any other way. Our culture is so materialistic, and I think we need to step back from that and realize that there are people who don’t have the things that we have. We need to recognize our own kind of privilege and help someone else in need. That’s one of the biggest things this program can do and does do for the campus community.”

For more information regarding the Angel Tree program, visit OSA or contact them at OSA@wiu.edu.

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The Western Courier is published Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the regular school year, excluding holidays, finals week and semester breaks. The WC updates the website weekly during the summer. All content reflects the editorial discretion of the students operating the newspaper and must be interpreted as unofficial university communication. While every attempt is made to determine the validity of advertising contained herein, the advertising in the WC is not to be construed as endorsements of any specific products or services. The WC assumes no responsibility or liability resulting from the content of paid advertisements. Subscription price is $36 per year mailed third-class bulk rate from Macomb.

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No reproduction or reuse of material is permitted without written consent of the WC. All rights reserved. To request permission to reprint any material from this publication, please contact Nicholas Ebelhack or Will Buss at 309-298-1876.

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@WesternCourier

Friday, December 8, 2017

NEWS 3

Mathis humbled by collegiate experiences Isaiah Herard news editor

Western Illinois University senior Sean Mathis, 21, of Chicago, Ill. is notorious for his headstrong, fearless and gentle personality. Although he is a native of the gritty and impoverished ghettos of Chicago, Mathis still maintains a kind nature and loving spirit.

“Although many people allow their environment to dictate how they act and associate with others, that has never stopped me from wanting to be better than where I come from,” Mathis said. “The stigma that comes from living in the city is an awful one and I’ve never wanted to associate myself with that. I strive to maintain a kind nature in order to never have assumptions made of me due to where I come from.”

Mathis said enrolling in Western in 2014 was the most epiphanic moment in his life because it allowed a fresh start and enhancement for his life.

“My personal goals and ambition keeps me going every day. The most impactful moment that helped me shape me into the person I am today was when I finally

stepped onto Western Illinois Campus. That day I decided to reinvent myself into someone much more than who I was previously.”

Mathis’ parents are a major reason that he is the wholesome young man he is today. Like his mother, who worked for Chicago Transit Authority for 23 years, he hopes to one day surpass her work ethic and become like his father, who assumed entrepreneurship at an early age and worked solely for himself before serving as the Assistant Vice President in City Group’s IT department.

“My parents have influenced me to be the most generous individual that I can be through my consistent actions,” Mathis said. “The main lesson I’ve learned from my parents is to be respectful to everyone I encounter. Being respectful is a character trait that has been instilled in me from the beginning of my life.”

According to Mathis, failure is a natural facet of life.

Without it, he wouldn’t understand the trials and tribulations that must be endured to be successful.

“The biggest obstacle that I’ve had to overcome in life is understanding that it’s okay to not be the best at some-

thing all the time,” Mathis said. I’ve had to learn that on occasion, it’s okay to fail.

Failure gives you an opportunity to learn and grow.”

During his leisure time, Mathis enjoys the soothing, jazzy keys of the piano, enjoying quality time with his friends and engaging in extracurricular activities such as basketball and baseball. Although he is a novice on the piano, he has mastered nearly three songs in a short time span.

“I can be described as ambitious, motivating, giving, and caring. I enjoy hanging out with friends, playing basketball, playing baseball and watching ted talks,” Mathis said. I am currently working on improving my piano skills.

I’ve been practicing for a little under 7 months now and I’ve learned about three songs.”

Despite life’s unpredictable circumstances, Mathis strives to be successful and believes proper preparation will prevent poor performance.

“A personal philosophy that I live by is that success only happens to those individuals who properly prepare for it,” Mathis said. “In 10 years, I see myself as a well-known and respected computer scientist and businessman by my colleagues.”

wiu.edu

Mathis succeeds at Western with his pleasant and outgoing personality, despite his hardships he faced in his past.

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Friday, December 8, 2017

4 OPINIONS

WesternCourier.com

Shannon says goodbye to the Courier Never in my years of media and theater did I ever think I would have the opportunity to work for a newspaper. And never did I think I would have the chance to meet the people I did. Don’t get me wrong, there are some people I wish I hadn’t met, but luckily for me they were not a direct threat. They were simply anti-me and hey Nick Ebelhack and Erika Ward thought it would be funny to send the only black lesbian of the office to go speak with a very political right leaning official.

Looking back on it now, yes it was pretty funny and I’m not even remotely mad, because it was still a nice interview. In fact, if it weren't for this paper I probably wouldn’t have gotten into so many of the odd situations that I did — which nobody believes me when I talk about some of encounters I’ve had.

Seriously, is it really so hard to believe that I wanted buffalo chicken pizza one night and with a few friends and drove to Dominos and as we’re rounding the block to go through the entrance we

noticed there were about 16 police cruisers, the state police, the K-9 unit and every single one of them was armed with various pistols and shotguns? I never got my buffalo chicken pizza that night, but I did get front page that Monday for the story.

I’ve experienced so many incidents, some as they’re happening and some when it’s just myself and the firemen on scene, but never in a moment did I regret ever saying “yes” to becoming a freelance photojournalist followed by an assistant news editor and then finally the opinions editor.

Or the other time when I woke up Saturday morning to seven missed calls from Erika telling me to grab my camera and drive and up and down the streets of Macomb looking for every house tagged with various objects — some phallic, but all uncalled for. It was times like that one when I realized I knew I belonged and I knew my time here would be short-lived so I needed to have as many crazy experiences I could before I had

to finally delete the voice recorder app on my phone.

There was also the other instance when I had just got out of the shower and was on my way back to my room when I heard my phone ringing and saw I had eight missed calls from Erika and then had to run up one level of my residence hall to confirm that a baby was being born in one of the bathrooms.

It was a crazy day and I totally used that story as an excuse to get out of my Law Enforcement and Justice Administration 212 criminal law class final. Don’t judge me; you would do it too if you could.

I’d like to take the moment to talk some trash about Josh, our current copy editor who will read this before anyone else. First off, do you prefer Josh or Joshua? Why can’t you be like normal people and just go by one name consistently? My name is Shannon and you don’t see me shortening or elongating mine to any other name. He always has the be the difficult one and yet he probably is the only one in this office I can talk to about cooking on a spiritual level, and to that I say thank you Josh for, “walking into this office and never leaving,” as the previous news editors have told me

when I first arrived.

Thank you Nick for being the one that advocated for me to be in the office in the first place, even though it was honestly a risky investment you made because this office should certainly have several lawsuits because of me and sometimes I wonder how I haven’t been fired from constantly insisting that I be the only minority in the office — which you did not follow and now I’m not special — and stole food off of your table for the last three years and didn’t tell you about it until last semester.

Side note here, I completely forgot to write about Angel and I think she just deleted my paragraph in her goodbye letter, nope she just added in that she hates me and that I’m apparently “the worst friend she’s ever had” Jokes on you, you don’t remember the burn you had for Nick and now your goodbye letter sucks. Collectively this was the most fun I’ve ever had for a job and I’ve been a lifeguard.

I feel as far as fun jobs go lifeguard is up there, but this job completely washes that out of the park. Nothing will ever compare to rolling up to a burglary, the incident of Sep. 29 a year ago when the entire office left together to learn how to handle

being a reporter on the scene of a crime. We were chasing after cruisers who were speeding to whatever accident they were headed to, being questioned by police, “why we’re out at the scene of a crime” We almost got jumped by a bunch of rowdy guys a day after their house was graffiti'd and a friend and I went back to their house to see if we had missed anything and forgot to turn the flash off of my camera alerting them that possibly the assailant had return to draw more phallic objects on their house, but in reality we were on the trail of uncovering the fact that it was some guys that stole paint from the Rabbit hole and decided to have a little too much fun days before Halloween.

With that being said, thank you Western Courier for allowing me to have an experience unlike any other and thank you for allowing me to meet some of the twofaced “friends” that have turned their back on the very job that helped get them their career and the actual friends that I know I can facetime at any time of day, especially when they are having a paranormal experience.

Thank you for the ride and take care, I can’t wait to hear about the next time you guys get kicked off the campus.

Farewell from Sports Editor Mat McClanahan After two years spent at the Western Courier I am forced to give a bittersweet goodbye to all of my wonderful coworkers and only memories to reminisce on my experiences that only the Courier could give me.

During my tenure as a staff writer, assistant sports editor and sports editor I was able to work on my craft as a journalist and learn new techniques for my future. I will still be working for the Courier for my last couple semesters as a Leatherneck, but will not be an editor any longer. I am excited for my new experiences as a student teacher, but will miss opening up “the big purple door” three times a week.

In my first year at the Courier, I was a tennis beat writer that learned to love the sport and real-

ly gain a deeper knowledge of the game. I then covered volleyball, which I was already familiar with, so was ecstatic to write about.

After my first two semester writing on different beats I applied as the assistant sports editor and got the job.

I will never forget my first day on the job, Campbell Atkins and I were both brand new to the office and we could not figure out how to open up pagination, the Courier’s software for the newspaper, for the the first two hours that we were in the office. I was so embarrassed and overwhelmed, but quickly made friends with everyone.

With that being said, I would like to thank Campbell for all the laughs, debate and for taking on a new experience for both us.

Another person I would like to thank is Devon Greene. Devon was my assistant sports editor and I will cherish the laughs, friendly banter, and hearing your atrocious takes. I hope you are ready to take on the duty of sports editor; you will do great.

Other than all the people that deserve my thanks, I am very appreciative of Western Courier.

Without the help of the Courier I would not have been able to travel the country and do what I love and that is writing.

I was able to travel to places like Arizona to North Dakota all because of the opportunity that the Courier gave me. I was able to live out a dream that very few places could offer. I am forever grateful for the Courier and all that it has done for me.

Even though I am saying goodbye to my position, I will still be able to get thrill from Western sports and give my hot takes that never seem to actually come true. The Courier has been too good to me and I am saddened to say goodbye.

@WesternCourier

Friday, December 8, 2017

Shannon Norris is forcing me to write a 300 word goodbye letter. I was very reluctant, because I didn’t want to take a mugshot, but I’m giving it a shot, anyway.

I just want to start off by thanking Shannon. If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t

have started taking freelance photos, and I definitely would not have applied for the Photo Editor position.

Even though we are in way too many organizations together, I could never get tired of the time I get to spend with you. I hate you. Also, I would

like everyone to know that Shannon forgot to include me in her goodbye at first, so I almost removed her from mine.

I also should thank Nick Ebelhack for actually giving me the job, even though we all knew that having Shannon and I in the office together would lead to reduced productivity. Thanks for only thinking I was a weirdo for three years of college instead of four, the favor was returned. Thank you for putting up with all the times Shan-

After four long years of working for the Western Courier, first as the Assistant Photo Editor, then Photo Editor, and finally Production Manager, my turn has finally come to say goodbye. I remember reading Editor-In-Chief Elana Katz’s goodbye article when I was being trained and feeling struck by it. Through her writing I could sense that it was hard for her to say goodbye, and no, that was not only because the article literally began with “I’ve thought of too many ways to start this column.”

Now, four years later, I can relate to the furthest extent. In fact, I didn’t plan on writing a goodbye column because quite frankly I hate goodbyes. But I knew I would regret it in the future if I didn’t end my time at the Courier the right way.

Coming to Macomb in Fall of 2013 all the way from Puerto Rico, it would be an understatement to say it was hard to adjust. Sure, I wasn’t alone in the sentiment. All my floor mates in the dorm were homesick. But the majority had the luxury of going home on the weekends, and that wasn’t an option for me. Fast forward to the Spring semester of 2013, I was at a house party taking photos of the band performing, and this random person –– highly intoxicated, might I add — came up to me and asked if I was interested in becoming a staff

photographer for the student-run newspaper. And that’s how it all began.

I met Mary Friday, who was the Photo Editor at the time, and Katie Gassmann, who was the Opinion Editor. Together we had the most fun I’ve ever had in a work setting. Not only were we coworkers, but we were also friends and there was a sense of community.

On spring break of 2015 we went on an unforgettable road trip across the country. For my 20th birthday I came into the office to my desk covered with pictures of women in bikinis and a text that said, “happy birthday.” It was hysterical. We had fun.

I want to give a special shout out to Rich Moreno for being an outstanding adviser to the Courier. Sadly, he had to leave us, but I will always remember how caring he was for every one of us and how one time he played Puerto Rican Christmas music out of his computer when I was talking about missing home.

My future goals have shifted slightly ever since becoming an editor for the Western Courier. Not only do I hope to be able to do what I love for a living, but I want to do it with people who make it even more worthwhile. I have the Western Courier to thank for that.

OPINIONS 5

Good friends will be missed

A sad so-long

non and I got food without you, even after you asked to go with us. Thank you for being the person that actually understood the pains of being a Greek organization secretary, and all the bull that goes with it.

Thank you to Pedro Avila, for all the times you covered my butt when I had to last minute leave the office. Also, thank you for giving me someone to talk to when Shannon was too busy to talk to me.

My time in the office has

been so much fun, and has given me many memories to look back on.

I’ve always wanted to attend more university events and it had been one of my goals for the past three years. Working with the Courier gave me an excuse to go to those events without looking like a total dork. Thank you to the entire staff this semester, it has truly been memorable. I’m sorry to be leaving, but happy to have had the opportunity.

Friday, December 8, 2017

6 SPORTS Women’s Basketball from back page

When Farrow got back on the court in the second quarter, she immediately hit a three, giving Western a 32-19 lead. Following Farrow’s shot, Blumer hit another three, helping the Leathernecks to an even greater advantage.

The lead eventually to 42-21 after Higginbotham made a layup as she was fouled with 3:24 left in the first half. This forced the Redhawks to take a timeout. Western finished the half leading by a score of 52-25.

The Purple and Gold maintained a double-digit lead for the remainder of the game and finished with a 28-point win.

Clemens accompanied Higginbotham and Farrow who also hit double figures in scoring. Clemens recorded her 54th career double-digit scoring game and her nine assists of the game marked her 49th career game with five or more assists. Farrow’s 15 points marked her 16th career double-digit scoring game.

She also tied her career-high of one block for the 11th time.

Senior forward Olivia Braun also recorded a career high of four steals.

Western Illinois will now hit the road for five straight games, they will not return until Jan. 4.

The Leathernecks’ first opponent will be Austin Peay State University, followed by Stanford University, Gonzaga University, Bradley University and conference opponent Indiana University Purdue University-Fort Wayne.

Twitter: hayfourrr

Steroids from back page

Alex Rodriguez, one of the most famous players in sports history, who hit nearly 700 homeruns, batted in over 2,000 runs and earned over 3000 hits, denied using steroids at first, but then admitted to using PEDs in 2009. Sosa and Bonds, who both earned over 600 homeruns, both used steroids.

The “problem” extends to other sports, too. One of the only reasons Americans care about bicycling is because Lance Armstrong won seven consecutive Tour de France championships from 1999 to 2005. In 2012, though, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) concluded that Armstrong had used PEDs throughout much of his career.

They also named Armstrong the leader of, “the most sophisticated, professionalized and

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WesternCourier.com successful doping program that sport has ever seen." A tough act to follow, for sure.

The only reason for banning steroids and PEDs I’ve seen and heard from sports aficionados is that they give players an unfair advantage. Major sports organizations hand down suspensions and penalties left and right, but it doesn’t work. Athletes still juice up to hit that ball or pedal faster and harder than anyone in history. Isn’t that what sports are about?

To watch Sosa, Bonds, Ortiz, Clemens or McGwire play the game was to watch the pinnacle of human strength. To watch Armstrong pedal up the hill and cross the finish line in record time was to marvel at the apex of endurance. It’s time to legalize and even encourage PEDs and steroids in sports.

Not only would doing so push humans past their own limits to achieve higher levels of ability,

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it would also encourage scientists to develop safer and more effective PEDs. There’s also the business argument.

People like me — who could not care less about sports these days — were at least curious about Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire in the late 90s when it became evident that they were on the verge of something amazing. And, as Chris Smith noted in Forbes in 2012, “jerseys flew off the shelves, games sold out and baseball was so exciting that some have gone so far as to claim it ruined post-steroid baseball.”

Allowing PEDs makes sense.

It would end the bureaucratic nightmare of monitoring their use. It wouldn’t just level the playing field, it would raise it.

It could engage more fans who have grown bored of the sports.

Finally, it would show just how far humans can go, and then go further.

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Semester leases offered. Call 309 837 4369 and leave your phone number if not there. Email: MandKhousing@gmail.com ALL APARTMENTS - ALL INCLUSIVE Get control of your budget. Know exactly what you are spending each month. Each apartment includes free a/c, free heat, free electricity, free water, free cable tv, free hi speed internet, and free off street parking. Laundry on site.

No noise policy. Bus stop across the street. Close to campus. Well maintained. Studios are $460/mo, One bedrooms are $620/mo. Call Doug at 309-255-8179 for an appointment.

Westen Investments still has affordable 1-4 Bedroom Apartment/Houses available. Be sure to check out our website (www.westeninvest.com) to see our available listings, and call our office at 309-833-5995 to schedule a showing. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to win prize giveaways!

APARTMENT FOR RENT: FOR QUIET PERSON. ONE BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT LOCATED AT 314 West Carroll ST Macomb, Ill 61455. Available end of August 2017-new carpeting yearly lease SMALEST FURNISHED IN MACOMB $345.00/month - HEAT & AC INCLUDED private entrance, off-street parking included call for appointment309-837-4748 or 255-5075 woodburning fireplace, ask for Paul.

For Rent: Little Swan Lake, 30 min from campus. 2br, 2bth, heated double car garage with work area. $600 per mo.

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Sports 7

Friday, December 8, 2017

@WesternCourier

Look out for early NBA MVP favorites We have seen the rise of many stars to begin the 20172018 season, Philadelphia 76er Joel Embiid, Minnesota Timberwolf Karl Anthony Towns and Milwaukee Buck Giannis Antetokounmpo are just a few of them. Many veterans have also started the season off well; Cleveland Cavalier LeBron James, Houston Rocket James Harden and Golden State Warrior Kevin Durant have been playing well and look to repeat their past success.

These star players are all competing to win the award league MVP. As of right now the MVP race looks like it will be between the young gun, Antetokounmpo, last year ’s runner up, Harden and veteran James. All three players

have something to prove and will stop at nothing to take home the award.

Throughout this season, one new player has stuck out over the other rising stars, Antetokounmpo. He has started with an outstanding stat line of 29.7 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game. This is Antetokounmpo’s fourth year in the NBA and he is already putting up MVP level stats. Although, Las Vegas has the odds of Antetokounmpo winning MVP at 8-1 and James as the favorite to win.

Antetokounmpo can keep performing at this level he will be a serious contender.

Antetokounmpo is the star player of the Milwaukee Bucks, he didn't have much support from the rest the

team, but with the addition of Eric Bledsoe they can now capitalize on the pick to greatly elevate Antetokounmpo’s playing and scoring ability. With the support from Thon Maker the Milwaukee Bucks 2016 draft pick keeps the defense spread out. This gives Antetokounmpo the space he needs to get in the paint. At the height of 6-foot-11, his blocking abilities also enable him to play a big part in his team's defense.

Antetokounmpo has the skill set to greatly affect all aspects of the game. This helps him put up huge numbers every game in both offense and defense stats.

The veteran contender for this year’s MVP is James. This should come to no surprise for any NBA fan. James already has four MVP trophies under his belt and this year, James has something to prove. He wants to put one last stamp on his already outstanding career as an NBA future

Hall-of-Famer. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ season has been hit by several injuries, which has benched some of their star players. James has once again put the team on his back and has put up an outstanding 28.2 points per game. He has led the Cavaliers to the longest winning streak in franchise history with 13 straight wins. This level of play from James is something we have seen before, but it is surprising that even though James is 32, he is still competing at the level he played at 4 years ago.

This very well could be the year that James wins his fifth league MVP and ties NBA legends Michael Jordan and Bill Russell for most MVP awards.

But before that happens, he needs to beat out one of last year’s contenders, Harden.

The Houston Rockets have had an outstanding season so far and that can be credited to their star player Harden. Last season, he was a favorite to win MVP but was beat out by

Russell Westbrook, who averaged a triple double and broke the record for most triple doubles in a season. James Harden has averaged over 30 points per game so far this season, he has also led the Rockets to the number one seed in the Western Conference over the Warriors, which is no small task. This wouldn't be surprising especially if he keeps being an offensive All-Star and finishes the season averaging 30 points per game.

Whether Antetokounmpo can keep competing at this level, and if James can add another all-star season onto his already Hall of Fame career, or Harden can keep scoring a high number of points, this MVP race will be one for the books. Rising star versus NBA veteran versus scoring leader, this will be an exciting season for all three players and it will be even better to see these players battle the rest of the season and possibly even meet in the playoffs.

Necks hunt Eagles in win MACOMB, Ill.Behind Brandon Gilbeck's impressive night of 17 points, 13 rebounds and 8 blocks, the Western Illinois University Leathernecks (6-2) beat the American University Eagles (2-6) 69-59 on Wednesday night. Gilbeck swatted six Eagle shots in the first half and the Leathernecks' defense held the Eagles to 32.1 percent at the break.

“They do a really good job of running their actions. It's tough to guard. Most teams just try to sit back and play a zone, but we really take pride in our defense,” said head coach Billy Wright. “We worked at it. Hats off to our scout team, who did a really good job simulating those actions. Our guys were aware and locked in on the defensive end.”

Western started out on a 12-4 run, but Dalan Ancrum picked up two early fouls that kept to only three minutes of action in the first half.

“Our bench in the first half, the guys that came in really gave us a spark. You look at Chuck Gavin, Lynrick Moxey and those guys who came in when Dalan was in foul trouble, and they kept us in rhythm,” Wright said. “Hats off to our bench and we develop one through 15. The last few minutes, our guys did a tremendous job of locking in defen-

sively and making plays.”

Down 19-15 with 6:39 on the clock, American went on an 8-0 run to take its first lead of the game at 20-19. Charles Gavin finished through contact as he got fouled with five minutes to go in the first half to stop the Eagles run and put the Purple and Gold back on top at 21-20.

Moxey both knocked a bucket with 4:14 to play that was his first field goal since Calvary on Nov. 17.

With time running down in the first half, Kobe Webster netted a 3-pointer to push the Western lead to six points going into the break.

After not playing for most of the first half, Ancrum caught fire with 12:43 to go in the second half, knocking down back-to-back-to-back shots for the Leathernecks that included a floater in the lane and a contested 3-pointer.

With Western up by 10 points, American went on a 14-2 run to go up by two points, its largest lead of the entire game.

The Leathernecks finished the game on a 15-0 run, winning the contest 69-56. Western made all 10 free throws to end the game and it finished 11-14 on the evening.

The Leathernecks are back in action on Saturday against Milwaukee. Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. inside Western Hall.

GoLeathernecks.com

Brandon Gilbeck gets back on defense in a home matchup.

Pedro avila/ photo editor

Monday, August 21, 2017

Time to stop forbidding steroids

FLICKR.COM

Barry Bonds follows through after a swing at the plate.

Most readers are probably unaware, but there has been a months-long joke going on in the Western Courier office this semester. I told the sports editors that my last piece to ever be published in this newspaper will be a noholds-barred, full-throated defense of using steroids and other performance enhancement drugs (PEDs) in sports.

Well, here it is, Mat and Devon. I hope you’re happy.

The principle problem I have with sports in general — besides American football’s violence and disregard for player safety and the National Hockey League’s propensity to encourage violence in its players — is boredom. I can’t think of a single person who has sat through an entire baseball game to just watch the game. If a pitcher does the best job he can do, fans are essentially there to watch a 3-hour game of catch. When it comes to

basketball, the only thing that can be said is that broken legs and sneaker squeaks are often more exciting than the game itself.

Consider, though, some recent famous baseball names: Mark McGwire, Roger Clemens, David Ortiz, Many Ramirez, Alex Rodriguez, Sammy Sosa, Barry Bonds.

What do they all have in common? They’ve either admitted to using steroids and other PEDs or have been implicated by either testimonies or investigations.

McGwire was just 35 years old when, in 1998, he demolished the single-season homerun record. In 2010, though, he publicly admitted to using steroids for a large part of his professional career.

Steroids page 6

Leathernecks ground the Redhawks

By Haley Richards

assistant sports editor The Western Illinois University Leathernecks women’s basketball team took on the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks at home Tuesday and won 87-59. The Leathernecks move onto 8-2 on the season, while the Redhawks fell to 4-5.

Junior guard Taylor Higginbotham once again had an exceptional performance for the Purple and Gold. She scored 25 points and had seven rebounds on the night.

Higginbotham became the 17th Leatherneck in program history to join the 1000-point club. In total, she currently has 1022 career points. This makes her the 16th all-time in scoring in school history.

This was her 14th career game with 20-plus points and is the second game in a row of her doing so. She also hit 14 free throws, which is a new career high.

“Obviously, it was a good win against SEMO and I thought it was one of the best halves we've played all year,” said head coach JD Gravina.

“They [SEMO] were really aggressive and I thought we

were able to attack them and get to the free throw line. We shared the ball well and had some of the best ball movement I've seen, which is the way basketball is supposed to be played. We knew that they were going to come out and fight in the second half, so I was proud of how our girls responded in the second half.”

The starting five for the Purple and Gold were senior guards Emily Clemens, Morgan Blumer and Michelle Farrow, senior forward Olivia Braun and Higginbotham.

The Leathernecks jumped to a quick lead after Farrow hit two 3-pointers and a layup with just about six minutes left in the first quarter. This forced the Redhawks to take a timeout.

Farrow was subbed out just two minutes later by senior guard Taylor Hanneman.

Hanneman got in and hit back-to-back threes to give Western a 10-point lead headed into the second quarter.

Women’s Basketball page 6

Taylor Higginbotham tosses a pass against Illinois College.

GOLEATHERNECKS.COM