Western Courier| February 28th, 2018

Opinions: Tackle midterms the right way.

Sports: UFC is the place to make a comeback.

Sports: Basketball looks on to Summit League tournament.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018 - Vol. 118 Issue 61

SGA censures UPI Gradle: “We're people, not pawns”

By Marc Ramirez assistant news editor

The Legislative Body discussed The University Professionals of Illinois (UPI) on Tuesday, and the recent unethical activities SGA claims it has conducted in regards to providing one-sided information to students on campus was drafted by eleven people ranging from the Association President to students at Western Illinois University.

UPI 4100 is a local chapter who are recognized leaders in academic collective bargaining for higher education in Illinois who do so regularly approximately every five to seven years.

SGA page 3

SARA REMAR/COURIER STAFF

Members of the Student Government Association debate legislature pertaining to censuring the University Professionals of Illinois. Clockwise from the top left: IFC Senator Aaron Steele, IHC Senator Joe Reinert, Senator-at-Large Hayden Goleman, Senator-at-Large Aaron Chess, Senator-at-Large Doni Purifoy, Student Member to the Board of Trustees Wil Gradle, Senator-at-Large Isaac Asche.

Red Ox shut down short of closing date

BECCA LANGYS/PHOTO EDITOR

By Nicholas Ebelhack editor-in-chief

The Red Ox Restaurant & Lounge announced Tuesday afternoon that the restaurant would be closing down earlier than expected following a spot check from the McDonough County Health Department.

The Red Ox, which announced on Sunday that it would be closing for good

tonight, said on their Facebook page that the health department arrived at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday and shut the restaurant down.

“This was during a time where every seat was filled in our business, and we were extremely busy,” read the Facebook post. “They found a few temperatures that weren't ‘PERFECT,’ and shut us down for good.”

Owner Mark Meng posted

“”

on the restaurant’s Facebook page Sunday, saying that they wanted to say goodbye to their customers and to the

“We are so terribly sorry that we had (to) end our run this way. Thank you for your continued patronage for the last 40 years, and we must now say goodbye for good.”

-Mark Meng

Red Ox Owner

Macomb community after 40 years of business by staying open until tonight at 8:30 p.m. He then closed with the following statement.

“We ask that you please continue to support the small businesses in Macomb, and the values that we hold so dearly,” Meng said.

However, due to the restaurants closure, the longstanding Macomb restaurant saw it’s final service earlier

than expected.

“We intended to take today and tomorrow to celebrate our history, and say goodbye to our customers,” read the restaurants Facebook post from Tuesday. “This is no longer possible. We are so terribly sorry that we had (to) end our run this way. Thank you for your continued patronage for the last 40 years, and we must now say goodbye for good. We wish you all the very best!”

2

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

NEWS

WesternCourier.com

City Council addresses signficant water bills

angel strack/Senior staff

Dean Torreson and Gayle Carper discussed excessive water bills and ways to combat the high prices.

Steven Barnum courier staff

In the final meeting in February, high water bills and payment adjustments were discussed by the Macomb City Council.

An increasing amount of Macomb residents are facing significant water bills. These unexpected charges range from problems like broken water pipes to broken water service lines, often while the resident is out of town.

It’s not uncommon that bills can be in excess of $1,000, and sometimes the reason for such a pricy bill is much less complicated.

“Even a running toilet can quickly rack up a huge water bill,” said city administrator Dean Torreson, “People come in owing thousands of dollars and they can’t afford it, it’s difficult to sit across from them.”

Two policies have been proposed: all water meters should be located in a pit near the street instead of in close proximity to the home, and a resident who unintentionally racks up a large bill will be eligible for some payment relief as long as that resident’s water didn’t enter the town’s sewer system.

Pointing out the gray area in the latter proposal was Alderman Gayle Carper. After questioning how a resident can prove their water didn’t enter the sewer system, Torreson admitted it wouldn’t be easy to tell without substantial research; however, in those situations, the town would give the benefit of the doubt to the customer.

Under this policy proposal, a resident would be charged the amount they paid on average during the last 12 months.

Only one adjustment would be allowed over a 12 month period.

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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

Furthermore, the customer must repair the leak within seven days of being notified, otherwise they will not be rewarded with an adjustment opportunity and they will be charged the full amount.

Problems with swimming pools or hoses will not warrant adjustments, although it’s suggested that a separate faucet outside would decrease the chance of a bill spiraling out of control. An extra faucet is especially recommended for those who use excessive water outdoors.

As for customers currently facing high bills, Torreson assured that there is a maximum amount they will be charged.

“At a certain point, enough is enough. If a customer has paid 10 times what they normally pay, we forgive them,” said Torreson Changing subjects, irregularities with zoning maps were brought to the council’s attention by Community Development Coordinator Ray Heitner.

Heitner questioned with the consistency with the structure of certain parcels in Macomb.

One of those parcels shares land with Macomb High School and is both an office and industrial area. Another parcel allows for both manufacturing and single family homes.

“Ideally, you want just one zone per parcel,” said Heitner, referring to the town’s use of “split zoning."

Although Heitner feels split zoning doesn’t make practical sense, he doesn’t feel that there are any major concerns about zoning maps; however, he reminds the council that it’s been a couple years that the maps have been updated, and he believes they should be updated more frequently.

Also on the agenda Monday night was the next step in finalizing a deal between Otto-Baum Company, Inc. and the Go West bus project.

The project, which includes buses, cameras, and shelters, is possible thanks to the return of state funding. Pending approval from both the council and from the Illinois Department of Transportation, the project could begin as soon as this spring.

NA-Ebelhack@wiu.edu assistant news editor Marc Ramirez MA-Ramirez3@wiu.edu opinions editor Ryan Zurek RP-Zurek@wiu.edu sports editor Devon Greene DJ-Greene@wiu.edu assistant sports editor Haley Richards H-Richards@wiu.edu edge editor Baylee Brynteson BM-Brynteson@wiu.edu copy editor Brie Coder B-Coder@wiu.edu proofreader Valerie Clemens VN-Clemens@wiu.edu

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SGA

from front page

Wil Gradle, Student Member to the Board of Trustees and an author of this legislature, explained how some educators have been using class time in attempts to leverage the inherent asymmetry of information regarding the negotiations process. However, as addressed in the bill itself, this is a violation of the Board of Trustees’ Academic Responsibility regulation and a breach of the mandate.

“Students and professors have a relationship that is different from most relationships you’ll develop on campus,” said Gradle. “For an two and a half a weeks, you walk into their classrooms and you expect everything they say more or less a fact, just as you are expected to present the whole fact on a paper or examination.”

This was seen as a breach since only one sided information was presented to the students, information that could not be validated or disproven

Wednesday, February 28, 2018 as it was information from the perspective of the UPI. “The issue comes when they give bias information, professors are abusing the captive audiences they have and the trust they have to push an agenda, to get an outcome, which students get no benefit at all,” Gradle said. “We’re people, not pawns, we get no say in the process and no benefit one way or the other.”

It was found by the Student Government Association that The University Professionals of Illinois should disengage from all activities that can be construed to be communicating directly to students without presenting the merits of both sides of the issue. This decision was passed by the legislative body by a vote of 19-0-3.

In precautions to address any concerns that may arise, Madeline Heinzer, Senate Clerk, proposed The Student Government Association expresses its neutrality in the negotiations process between Western and the UPI unless it clearly violates students’ rights to a fair access of education.

NEWS 3

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

4 OPINIONS

WesternCourier.com

Get ready for midterms the right way

With spring break less than two weeks away, the first major wave of exams, papers, midterms and other major point items that give students anxiety is on the horizon. While these assignments are obviously important and should be taken seriously, it’s important to take time for yourself as well.

If you are not at your best emotionally or physically, it will reflect in your paper or exam. It’s important to take breaks when studying or writing and to try to finish

at a reasonable time. While some believe the opposite, by pulling an all nighter drinking coffee and monster energy drinks studies show this might not produce the best results.

According to Harvard Medical Professor Dr. Clifford B. Saper, it’s better to go to bed early and study in the morning than to stay up an additional hour studying. Sleep helps build memory which means pulling those all nighters might mean you won’t remember as much as you

could have if you would have gotten some extra rest instead.

Another important thing I feel like a lot of students forget to do is to take time for themselves. Now I don’t mean start a night long Netflix binge when you have a paper due the next day, but sometimes you need to take a little break. In our generation, we like to be busy. We load up our calendars and our class schedules and just pray we make it to Dunkin before it closes. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a busy body too, but sometimes it’s nice to just lay down and relax when you have a little down time.

If you really want to spend time with friends, invite them over, they could probably use

a break too. Or as the weather gets nicer, spend some time outside enjoying the fresh air and breeze and the non-slippery walkways. The benches aren’t there for decoration.

The most important thing to do is to find something that helps you relax and takes your mind off that dreaded paper or exam. Each person relaxes a little differently and has their own way of calming themselves down to make these next few weeks a little more tolerable.

Lastly, eating healthy and getting enough exercise can also help you feel better and take down those pre-spring break obstacles. Loading up on the salad bar and hitting the rec. center can help you feel better about yourself,

which will reflect on your assignments. You’ll feel less sluggish and groggy and will be able to focus more on your studies.

According to the CDC, students who eat healthy, eat breakfast and exercise regularly have been shown to have greater academic performance and better attendance. It’s a lot easier to go to class when you’re feeling well, compared to when you’re feeling sick to your stomach. Small changes to your diet can start you on the path to feeling better.

Use the resources available on campus to better yourself and your preparation for the middle of the semester crunch. And remember, spring break is just on the horizon.

you have to have at least a two-year degree (associates degree) to even become an officer and go through officer training and the academy.

Going to college in general is because getting a degree, as stated earlier, will benefit you in the long run. So going to college and getting a degree in your career field choice is brilliant. Not only will you be ahead of the other potential officers, you also might have more experience than someone who didn’t go

to college.

Getting a degree in law enforcement is awesome because most of the professors have experience. Because they have experience, they can let a prospective student know what they should expect. The professors could give you tips and tricks on what to expect for the power tests. They could help you prepare for the exam. They could also write you a reference if you want to further your academic career, and so much more.

If you think about it, going to college is a smart thing to do. Walking into a police station with a bachelor ’s degree just goes to show that you care so much about your

career choice that you chose to move on from high school and go on to college to get a degree. You put all the hard work and dedication into the degree, by spending many countless hours and late nights trying to study for tests and doing homework.

Learning to ask questions, watching videos, target practice and many other things are learned behind the scenes by law enforcement majors.

There is a lot of effort that a person puts in just to get a degree.

That is something people just don’t understand. Deciding to get a four year degree will most likely land you a job somewhere. That’s something bosses look for.

That shows your work ethic and that you’re committed to your future. Getting a degree shows motivation and dedication. It shows that you’re flexible. It shows that you care and are willing to try anything. A person without a degree just gets thrown into everything. They don’t know what to expect, they just know they want to be a cop. They have a complete disadvantage because an educated cop knows what to expect and can enter the academy with confidence. Those without a degree are left without experience.

So if you think about it, getting a degree and going to school to be a cop will benefit you in the long run.

A law enforcement degree is worth it

A lot of people think it’s stupid to go to college just to be a cop. In most states, you don’t have to have a degree to become a police officer.

That may be true, but having a degree in anything will get you a few more dollars in the long run. It’s crazy how people put others down for their major choice.

If someone wants to major in art, sports management, science, etc, it shouldn’t matter.

And the funny thing is that there are several states where

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

@WesternCourier

OPINIONS 5

Arming teachers is not a solution In the wake of the Parkland shooting, there has been much debate over solutions to prevent this from happening again. Of all the solutions put forward, arming school teachers is by and large the worst idea surrounding the gun control debate.

The first reason it’s ridiculous is simply logistics. The costs associated with training and equipping every single one of America’s three and a half million teachers would be enormous. It would be far more cost-effective to hire more school psychologists and

counselors to help prevent shootings such as these.

If guns are given to teachers, there is a slew of decisions that must be made regarding their implementation. How often should teachers train with the weapons? How will they get their ammunition? What systems will be in place to ensure that the weapons are only ever used in a responsible manner?

Who will be liable if injuries occur outside of a shooter situation? Will the insurance costs for the school go up? I could go on and on with questions that arise. It is not as simple as

just giving teachers guns.

But there are more problems than just logistics. If every classroom, or even just some classrooms, had a gun in them, it would only be a matter of time before someone would get shot by an out of control student, an angry teacher or an intruder.

You can go through Youtube and find countless videos of students getting angry at their teachers or other students, shouting and throwing punches. Throw a gun into the mix and who knows what could happen. The student may try and take the weapon and use it on their teacher, or the teacher may end up shooting the student. Introducing a weapon will only serve to exacerbate those situations, and cause even more

school shootings.

Moreover, even if teachers were armed, and all the logistical problems were ironed out, there is no reason to believe that this would reduce the number of school shootings.

There were armed guards at Columbine and Parkland, and they were unable to stop the massacres. Having teachers be responsible for fighting school shooters would lead to more chaos. When the police arrive at the scene of a shooting, they will have no way of knowing who’s the good guy with a gun and who is the bad guy.

The best way to prevent mass shootings from occurring is not the militarization of our educators. Teachers have stressful enough jobs as it is.

A real, permanent solution has to consist of multiple efforts

Letter to the Editor I wish to bring attention and condemnation to recent unethical and inherently dishonest behavior performed by certain members of the University Professional of Illinois (UPI) 4100 local chapter at Western Illinois University. This activity includes 1.) picketing in front of student buildings during school hours in an attempt to hijack student voice, such as the Feb. 16 and 20, 2018 occurrences, 2.) disseminating fliers to students on campus that present biased, one-sided, and incomplete information, and 3.) instances of members of UPI diverting lecture time away from the intended topic to lecture students about Union business.

The information asymmetry inherent in the negotiations process – a process, I might add, that does not involve students, and for good

reason – is one that UPI is attempted to leverage for their own gain, a clear breach of the moral mandate delineated in the University’s core value of Social Responsibility to “maintain the highest standards of integrity in our work with others.” Particularly worrying is the use of class time to pursue this end, behavior which is a clear violation of the Board of Trustees’ Academic Responsibility regulation.

These tactics illustrate a clear inability on the part of UPI to present their arguments within the negotiations in a convincing way, or they would not be pursuing them in the first place. If UPI leadership can present a coherent, data-driven, rational argument as to why increased pay in the face of lower budgets, lower enrollment, and no layoffs is realistically possible, then I challenge them to do just

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2018 Spring Semester Editorial Board Editor-in-Cheif - Nicholas Ebelhack Edge Editor - Baylee Bryntesson Opinions Editor - Ryan Zurek

that. If it were possible, UPI would not be attempting to use students as leverage. In the likely case that it is not possible, UPI members will continue to picket in front of student buildings while classes remain in session, and persist in attempting to sway student opinion through their relative proximity to said students.

Students like myself will not stand idly by while we are coopted as a result of the incompetence and poor premises of UPI leadership.

Students are not here to be used as leverage. We’re people, not pawns.

The truth continues to remain that demanding pay increases in a time of budget reductions threatens not only the employment of university faculty and staff, but also the financial well-being of

the institution itself. UPI leadership would do well to take this irrefutable fact into account when approaching Western administration with demands of higher pay, fewer hours, and no layoffs.

You cannot have your cake and eat it, too. Nor can you attempt to exploit students, who have no say in the outcome of these negotiations, without facing consequences for that dishonest behavior.

I call on UPI to immediately cease their immoral picketing activities and on individual professors to use their class time not as a soapbox for Union praise but for legitimate academic instruction.

That is what the faculty are being paid for.

Patrick R. Quinlan Economics Graduate Student Speaker, WIU Student Government Association

on multiple fronts. The CDC has to be allowed to study gun violence so that trends can be discovered and effective means of gun control can be considered. It should be harder to obtain dangerous weapons, legally or illegally. This can be achieved through sensible, informed gun control. Schools should have more resources to reach out to troubled students, so that they will not reach a point were they start shooting fellow students. Law enforcement agencies should follow up on leads about people threatening violence online.

There are plenty of solutions that do not involve arming someone whose primary job is to educate. Let's focus on making our schools safe again, not turning them into the Wild West.

Friday, February 28, 2018

6 SPORTS

Women from back page

The Leathernecks dominated the rebound battle in both games and turned the Mavericks over 20 times as well. Clemens, who leads the Leathernecks in points with 18.1 and assists with 7.8 this season, averaged 24 points per game against the Mavericks this season as they haven't found a solution for the point guard. Clemens and company will be hoping for an easier game than last year when they defeated Omaha by two in the Summit League semis. If they follow the blueprint that has led them to dominating the Mavericks this season, it should propel them towards a win. Keep on the lookout during the game for Clemens breaking her own Summit League record for assists in a single season. She currently has 227 this season sitting just seven shy of her

conference record of 234.

The Mavericks have not played well this season, but no one should be counted out during March Madness, as we all know anything can happen. If they are going to have a chance, they must hit shots.

They shot just 29 percent from three on the season. Doing that against Western will most likely lead to another embarrassing lost which would end their season. The junior trio of Amber Vidal, Ellie Brecht and Jess Walter must click for the Mavericks to have a chance.

If one of the three can’t get going during the game, the Leathernecks should be on their way to the semifinals. Western's defense has made it a priority to shut the trio down as the Mavericks have yet to get two of the three in double figures in a single game versus the Leathernecks this season.

The game is set for Saturday, March 3, in Sioux Falls, S.D. Twitter: HeChilling

ANGEL STRACK./COURIER STAFF

Olivia Braun looks up at the rim after a shot attempt.

CLASSIFIEDS Submit a classifieds ad to Micour@wiu.edu

For Rent 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, new $250 signing bonus on 10 and 12 month leases. Two blocks from campus. Bus stops nearby. Free water, garbage and parking. Laundry onsite. Clean, well maintained and secure. Call Ted 309-837-5600 or visit markertrental.com.

Spacious 2-5 bedroom homes for rent. 10 month lease available. Great locations, close to bus stops, plenty off street parking, all new windows, AC, energy efficient furnace, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, free washer/dryer. Well maintained (24 hrs.) by local landlord.

Call 309-255-1233.

Houses for Rent 2016/2017: A&D Real Estate has several 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses for rent, all with at least 2 bathrooms, recently rennovated and located close to campus. Call for a tour or visit our website at www.wiucollegerentals.com. Local landlord with a focus on clean and updated housing with personal service for your college housing needs. 309-313-1122.

FALL INTO SAVINGS with Charleston Boulevard Apartments! Now offering SPECIAL RATES through Dec. 2017! Call for specific details 309-833-4545!.

NICE, CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 1 TO 6 BEDROOM HOUSES FOR 2016-2017 Our houses have hard wood floors, ceramic tile, central air, washer and dryer and are close to campus with plenty of parking. We offer a ten month lease so you don’t pay for the months you aren’t here. Please call 309-255-1959 for a showing.

Now showing for 2017 & 2018 year 2, 3, and 5 bedrooms homes all close to campus. Call 309-331-4565.

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WesternCourier.com

FILE PHOTO

Brandon Gilbeck focuses in on the rim while shooting a free throw.

Men

from back page

Last time the Mavericks went up against the Coyotes, they lost 64-79. Johnson had one of his worst performances as he only put up three points on seven attempts. On the other hand, the Coyotes used their talents on the defensive side of the ball. They only allow, on average, 68.4 points per game, leading the league for points allowed. They force the most turnovers in the league and have also limited their own turnovers as they are third in the league for turnovers. The first round should not be difficult, but in the last two rounds they will look to their senior guard Matt Mooney to advance. He averages 18.2 points per game and leads his team in assists and steals. He has proven he has what it takes in

big games as both times against their rival South Dakota State he has scored over 28 points and was heavily relied upon.

The other matchups in the first round include North Dakota State versus Fort Wayne, and Oral Roberts versus Denver. One player to watch in these games is senior guard Paul Miller for NDSU who is third for points per game in the league with 19.4 and fourth for assists per game with 3.6. If NDSU has any chance of making it to the finals, expect Miller to be shining in the tournament. Fort Wayne appears as a formidable opponent as they have a player in the top five of the summit league in five stats; scoring, assists per game, steals per game, rebounds per game and field goal percentage. The only two teams that have beaten the top two teams in the con-

WC For Rent

LARGE STUDENT RENTALS 5 and 6 Bedroom Homes are still available!! Ask for our $1000.00 Discount program! Firsrt come first serve for the last large homes that are open for the fall.

NICE, CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 1 TO 6 BEDROOM HOUSES FOR 2017-2018 Our houses have wood floors, ceramic tile, W/D, central air, and are close to campus with plentry of parking. We offer low rent and a 10 month lease to save you money! Call 309-255-1959 for a showing.

Small 1BR apt near campus and downtown. All utilities included. (Electric, Water, DISH, Garbage) $500/month, $300 deposit. Available immediately. Also have 2BR, you pay electric. $600/month, $350 deposit available September 1st. Please contact 309-255-4367 for a showing.

CLEAN, REMODELED, AND WELL MAINTAINED HOUSES AND APTS FOR RENT IN GREAT LOCATIONS. UTILITIES PAID FOR APARTMENTS. RENTING NOW FOR FALL 2017.

ALSO RENTING TWO APTS FOR SPRING 2016. CALL JASON AT 309-221-3985.

Timbercrest Apartments 1587 Riverview Drive Now showing 1 & 2 Bedroom Units. Very clean, close to WIU campus with bus stop in front of building. Washer/dryer available in most units, all other appliances included, FREE INTERNET, ceiling fans in every room, pet friendly. All units have off street parking and private decks overlooking campus. Both 10- and 12-month leases are available. Openings for Summer 2017 and school year 2017/2018. Deposit required. Phone (309)833-3192 and leave message.

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Looking for 2 roommates to share a 3-bedroom furnished house beginning in August for 2018-19. 10- to 12-month contract. New carpet, air, garage w/ storage, laundry. $300 each per month, plus utilities. Call Sharon at 309-338-3888.

ference besides each other are North Dakota State and Denver.

Denver beat USD 84-68 behind Joe Rosga’s performance as he put up 23 points and shot 71 percent beyond the arc. Every team wants to win, but all are chasing the two teams at the top.

At the end of the day, everyone wants the same trophy, title,and a banner. Both South Dakota schools have the best statistical chance of getting to the title game, but March is about upsets and drama, and Sioux Falls is sure to experience at least quite a bit of drama. South Dakota State is defending its title, their rivals are looking to take a title for themselves, and every other team wants to snag it from under their noses. March 3rd-6th will determine who is the best in The Summit League Men’s Basketball Tournament.

RATES $5.50 per issue (open rate) $4.00 per issue (campus rate)

For Rent Available now: Close to campus, clean studio apartments, excellent condition, reasonable rent, and partly furnished.

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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.

(309) 335-2206 after 6:00 pm, may leave message anytime.

Spacious 3 Bedroom Upper in Duplex close to campus and Jackson St. All utilities furnished and appliances Includes cable and internet 18/19 school year $375.00 per Br Ph 309 255 8086 Please leave message

Sports 7

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

@WesternCourier

UFC is the sport for second chances The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is all about giving second chances and giving the underdogs another shot at a fight and/or championship title. For the past month, fans as well as fighters have been buzzing about Phillip Brooks, better known as CM Punk, possibly having a comeback in the UFC. UFC president Dana White stated to the Associated Press that he’d like to give Brooks another shot at fighting in the octagon.

“He's a completely different case than most normal human beings,” White said.

“So, I'm going to give him another shot.”

Brooks officially signed with the UFC back in 2014, which gave him some time to train.

Luck wasn’t on his side the first time he fought for the MMA company. In 2016 at UFC 203,

Brooks lost his first fight in less than two minutes to Mickey Gall in the first round to a submission.

Brooks stated after that match that he wasn’t going to lie down and quit the martial arts sport just yet. He has been training in the meantime with Duke Roufus, a former kickboxer with a 36-8 record.

The rumors started to spread rather quickly after White’s statements. Many reporters and fans thought that Brooks would be in fighting shape for UFC 225. This will be the first big summer event for the company. The reason people thought Brooks would compete in this event is because it’s taking place in his hometown of Chicago.

On Feb. 7, White shut down the possible rumors and told the hosts of “UFC Tonight” on FS1 “there is no deal in place

for Brooks to compete in the Windy City in June.” After seeing and hearing the disappointment from fans, the UFC then decided to discuss the possibility of booking Brooks and his opponent who has had an interest in competing against him, Mike Jackson, for UFC 225. Jackson is a rather new name in the UFC. He currently has the same record as Brooks, 0-1. The Houston native also fell to Gall in 2016, 45 seconds into the first round from a submission.

If you are a longtime professional wrestling fan like me, then you’d know that Brooks, a.k.a. Punk, was legendary in the wrestling industry. Since 1999, Brooks has traveled all around the world working for independent wrestling promotions such as: Ring of Honor, Ohio Valley Wrestling, Extreme Championship Wrestling and the biggest stage of them all, the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). He was the twotime WWE Champion, which included a 434-day reign from 2011-2013.

Not only was his champion-

ship reign impressive, but also his character persona. Brooks began a revolution in the WWE that many wrestlers are trying to imitate to this day. Throughout his wrestling career, he portrayed an outspoken, sharptongued, anti-authority, straight edge guy, who was there to call people out and beat them at their own game.

The greatest feud during Brook’s career with the WWE was when he called out John Cena and told the part-time wrestler he wasn’t an underdog like the Red Sox; he was rather a dynasty like the New York Yankees. You might be thinking, “well what’s so bad about that?” Well back in 2011, Cena didn’t realize he was the blue chip prospect who was handed everything. Instead of saying he worked hard for his championships, he was instead handed the titles by the company. Brooks saw through his fakeness and called him out on his denial. His promos would only increase his fan base and his legacy.

Brooks wasn’t only cutting promos on the WWE talent, but

also on the owner of the company Vince McMahon. After several head concussions, broken ribs and an undiagnosed MRSA infection, Brooks wasn’t afraid to state what a horrible boss McMahon was. When he walked away from the WWE in 2014, he never looked back, stating that he was officially retiring from the squared ring.

Every now and then during a Monday Night Raw or Tuesday Night SmackDown show, you can still hear his name chanted from the crowd. The Bullet Club, a rather important group in the independent wrestling scene, has extended invites to the straightedge superstar to be a part of their growing group.

He hasn’t officially made a comment stating whether or not he would come back anytime soon.

As a long time Brooks fan, I can say I’m looking forward to seeing his return. Whether he continues with the UFC or back in the independent wrestling scene, he’ll knock his opponent out in the ring and on the microphone with his pipe bomb promos.

Baseball falls in three game series on the road

By David Koier courier staff

ANGEL STRACK//COURIER STAFF

Deion Thompson at bat for the Leathernecks.

MURRAY, Ky. — The Western Illinois University Leathernecks baseball team was swept this weekend by the Murray State University Racers. The winless Leathernecks lost both games of a doubleheader this past Sunday and finished off the series with a walk-off loss, losing 4-3 in the bottom of the ninth.

The Racers started the first game on Sunday’s doubleheader with a 4-0 lead off of four hits. Junior first baseman Bailey Montgomery started off the top of the second with a grounder to third base. It wasn’t long until the Leathernecks were on the board as junior shortstop Deion Thompson homered to left field.

After a couple runs in the second and fourth for the Racers, the Leathernecks finally responded again in the top of the fifth. With the leadoff man flying out to center, second baseman Jonathan Fleek hit a solid triple to right center field. After Murray State pitcher Trevor McMurray walked Leatherneck center fielder Drue Galassi, McMurray let up a single to Thompson scoring Fleek.

The Leathernecks scored their fifth and final run of the game in the top of the eighth.

By then it was too late. The Leathernecks lost the first game of the series 11-4 with the win going to McMurray and the loss awarded to Leatherneck junior Ian Koch.

After a brief break, it was on to game two of the doubleheader.

The Racers took a little longer this game to score but still were on the board first off of a sacrifice fly by sophomore left fielder Ryan Perkins.

The Leathernecks were quick

to respond. With two outs, Galassi was walked and eventually advanced to second base on a wild pitch. He then scored on a single by Thompson who advanced to second on the throw. After a pitching change by the Racers, the scoring continued as Montgomery singled up the middle scoring Thompson.

The Racers didn’t like being down, so they decided to tie it up with a leadoff home run by senior designated hitter Caleb Hicks. A sacrifice fly later in the inning caused the Racers to take the lead at the end of the sixth 3-2.

The Racers added two more runs to their total in the bottom of the seventh, increasing their lead to 5-2. The Leathernecks were again quick to respond in the top of the eighth. Fleek scored off of a Galassi triple after he singled early in the inning. Galassi scored off of a fielder’s choice adding a second run to the Purple and Gold’s inning total, bringing the score back within one run.

Unfortunately, the Necks could not capitalize off of their eighth inning momentum and were held to only one hit in the ninth. The Racers were able to score their second win of the day over Western 5-4. The win was awarded to Murray State sophomore Alec Whaley and the loss went to Leatherneck senior Ryan Dunne.

Monday’s game was a pitching battle that kept going back and forth between the two teams.

Leatherneck head coach Ryan Brownlee was in awe of the game that he and his team had just been a part of.

“We squeezed every ounce out of the game today,” Brownlee said. “I am going to frame the

box score because I have never been part of a game where 12 pitchers were used. We even lost the DH at the end to go to more of a defensive unit.”

Both teams scored a single run in the second inning. Murray State scored a second run in the bottom of the fourth, taking the lead 2-1. The Leathernecks took their second lead of the day in the fifth inning as both designated hitter Dillion Sears and left fielder Steve McShane scored changing the score to 3-2. The Leathernecks kept the lead until the bottom of the ninth inning. After a single early in the inning, junior Pete Minella came in to pitch and walked the bases loaded. With no outs in the inning, it looked as if Western was destined to lose. Destiny took its course and Racer infielder Grant Wood doubled to center field, scoring the two runs that would end the game in walk-off fashion. The Leathernecks lost the game 3-2 with Minella earning the loss.

Although they lost all three games over the weekend, Brownlee was able to see the silver lining.

“Our effort and energy today were closer to where it needs to be, but still not close to where we are going to be and that is an exciting thing. A game like that is a reminder of why you play.” Brownlee said.

The Purple and Gold may have had a rough weekend, but they have nowhere to go but up as the season progresses. This sweep adds to Western’s winless season, causing their record to fall to 0-6. The Purple and Gold face off against the University of Evansville Purple Aces this weekend on the road. twitter: thefluffy66

Necks ready to reclaim title

By Titus Perez courier staff

The regular season has come to an end for the Western Illinois University women’s basketball team who finished with a 21-8 record with a 10-4 finish in the Summit League. They stand in the third seed as they head to compete in the Summit League tournament in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

The Leathernecks came into the tournament overflowing with confidence. They have won their last two games, but the biggest chip on their shoulder comes from the fact that they won the Summit League tournament last year. Although the Leathernecks come into the tournament the third seed behind University of South Dakota Coyotes (24-5, 14-0 Summit) and South Dakota State University Jackrabbits (23-6, 12-2 Summit), their rotation is almost identical to the one that took the title last year.

The Leathernecks return all but two of the players that played major minutes in the 2017 tournament including all-tournament performer, senior guard Morgan Blumer and conference

and regular season most valuable player, senior point guard Emily Clemens.

The Leathernecks are looking to put the past mishaps against the Jackrabbits and Coyotes behind them. Their fourth conference loss came against the two teams from South Dakota by a combined 95 points, including two 35 plus point losses to the Jackrabbits who will be the Leathernecks’ expected opponents in the second round of the tournament.

However, the women of Purple and Gold will not have to worry about either of those teams in the first round. Their first contest will be against the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks (12-15, 3-11 Summit) who have struggled all year long to win games. Omaha comes in as the sixth seed, they faced off against the Leathernecks in last year’s tournament losing in the semifinals, 84-82.

This year, they have struggled against the Leathernecks, losing both contest by more than 35 points each.

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Emily Clemens scans the floor searching for an open teammate.

BECCA LANGYS/ PHOTO EDITOR

Men look to upset Jackrabbits

By Michael Harms courier staff

Kobe Webster reaches out to guard his man.

FILE PHOTO

A king will be crowned at the end of the highly anticipated Summit League Men’s basketball tournament. After a grueling three-month season, it all comes down to four days at Danny Sanford Premier Center from March 3-6.

The regular season ends with the South Dakota State Jack Rabbits on top with a 13-1 record for league play. The rest of the league is seeded as follows: second South Dakota 11-3, third Denver 8-6, fourth Fort Wayne 7-7, fifth North Dakota State 5-9, sixth Oral Roberts 5-9, seventh Omaha 4-10 and finally in last place Western Illinois with a record of 3-11.

The state of South Dakota is represented strongly with both USD and SDSU have been the two powerhouses on top of the conference and are expected to meet in the final matchup for the title. Six other teams have plans to stop them. However, the question must be asked who stands a chance? Starting off, Western Illinois challenges South Dakota State in the first round. Western Illinois lost both matchups in the regular season, first 98-70 and the second 82-62. Western has brought

little challenge to the defending champions and looks to end their eight-game winning streak for their first matchup in Sioux falls. Western’s primary concern will be freshman guard David Jenkins who put up 20 points and then 27 in the two games facing Western. Despite his impressive play, the true leader for the Jack Rabbits is senior forward Mike Daum. He leads the league in points per game with 26 and 10.1 rebounds per game. His talents throughout the season has earned Daum seven Summit League Player of the Week awards and a strong case for taking Summit League Player of the Year for the second time in a row. The Jacks will look at their most skilled player for leadership throughout this tournament to hold up another banner.

The other potential upset is Omaha taking on USD. On the other side of the bracket as SDSU, USD must win their first matchup to try and get to the finals. In order to make this upset happen, Omaha must rely on junior guard Zach Johnson who averages 17.4 points per game and shoots 52 percent from the field.

Men

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