Opinions: Greek life offers opportunities you don't want to miss.
Sports: James Harden stuns the NBA, and Wesley Johnson.
Sports: Basketball travels to Sioux Falls this weekend.
Friday, March 2, 2018 - Vol. 118 Issue 62
School Board responds to concern No comment made on sexual assault case details By Nicholas Ebelhack editor-in-chief
Macomb Community Unit School District 185 published a statement Feb. 26 responding publicly to allegations of negligence and Title IX violations regarding a civil suit filed Feb. 16 claiming school officials ignored sexual assault and harassment claims made by two female students.
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“We are actively investigating the underlying allegations and determining our course of action.” -Statement from Macomb
Community unit School District 185
BECCA LANGYS/PHOTO EDITOR
Macomb Junior-Senior High School, where two former students claim the were sexually assaulted by a former male student, and where they claim administrators ignored the incidents in a lawsuit filed Feb. 16.
By Marc Ramirez assistant news editor
The McDonough County drug unit consisting of Macomb Police, Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety, the Sheriff's Office, Bushnell and Colchester Police have made another arrest in the Operation Icemelt investigation. The most recent arrest took place on Feb. 22 at 234 E Hurst St in Bushnell, Illinois. Jack E. Cooper was in possession of 246.7 grams of Methamphetamine, Morphine pills, Cannabis, LSD and Psilocybin mushrooms at the time of the arrest which was seized by drug unit agents on the scene. Operation Icemelt is a multiagency undercover drug enforcement initiative aimed at halting the making and distribution of Meth-
amphetamine, locally referred to as ‘Ice’, into McDonough County. The over seven month initiative has made several arrests and hopes to continue cultivating drug related arrests in the surrounding areas. Cooper was charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm without a FOID card, possession of ammunition without a FOID card and possession of an altered firearm. The firearm that was altered had a serial number that was attempted to be removed or changed. Pending a bond hearing, Cooper was lodged at the McDonough County Jail. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By William Turkington courier staff
Western Illinois University student organizations and employees will participate in the annual Polar Plunge at Spring Lake, north of Macomb, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 4, to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois. In the previous 18 years of the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge, 66,000 plungers have raised more than $18.4 million for Special Olympics.
The suit, which seeks a jury trial and compensation of no less than $10 million, claims a teen boy who attended Macomb High School from 2014
The Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization that offers training and competitions in 18 different sports for more than 23,000 athletes with disabilities. All plungers are required to collect a minimum of $100 in donations and are also encouraged to come to the event in costume and will receive incentive prizes based on the amount of money they have raised. Alpha Sigma Alpha and Chi Omega are two of the Greek life organizations on campus that are participating in the plunge
to 2017 sexually assaulted two former students, who had both transferred to alternative schools following the incident after defendants, which include Principal John Rumley and Assistant Principal Ed Fulkerson, dismissed their claims as only accusations. “Because we need to respect the judicial process and the privacy of those parties involved, we are not going to discuss, in detail, any pending litigation publicly,” reads the statement from President of the Board of Education Jill Myers and Superintendent of Schools Patrick Twomey. “However, we want to assure the community the Board and the Administration are taking this lawsuit very seriously, we are actively investigating the underlying allegations, and determining our course of action.”
Lawsuit
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and make it a point to do so every year. “It is a fun, unique and memorable experience many of our members enjoy and continue after graduating college,” said Megan Hilt, the President of Western’s Alpha Sigma Alpha chapter. “We have been partnering with them since 1976 and do this event to raise awareness and money for this amazing cause.”
Plunge
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Friday, March 2, 2018
NEWS
William Turkington courier staff
The School of Agriculture will host a “Neck Up Spaghetti Luncheon” on Monday, March 5, in Knoblauch Hall 239 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Money raised from the event will benefit School of Agriculture student Karrisa Graves’s mother who is terminally ill with cancer. Tickets for the event are being sold for $5 in the Agriculture Office in Knoblauch 145 or at the door. The menu showcases spaghetti, garlic bread, dessert and drinks. Take-out options will be available. A silent auction will also be held during the luncheon. The idea of a fundraising luncheon to help peers is a new one for the team trying to put the event together. Student Whitney Thomson originally came up with the idea and has been helped by Karissa’s future roommates Claudia Bland and Erin Lascelles. “We had [the idea for the luncheon] brought to us a week ago,” said Bland. “We’ve been 110 percent at it since we got the idea.” The students have managed to sell close to 200 tickets and have put in an order for 225 t-shirts so far and expect to get more. T-shirts are being sold for $10 each. This is an impressive achievement for a group of students who have put together these plans in a few short days. The event has been well supported among professors, school organizations and local businesses. Many professors outside the agriculture department have already purchased tickets to the event. Alpha
Gamma Rho, a Greek life organization for agriculture students, has pledged money towards the event. Local businesses such as Hyvee and Sweet Shack have donated food and other gifts. Agriculture Communication Professor Jana Knupp has been responsible for keeping Karissa up to date on her homework. Professor Knupp has been impressed with the spirit of Karissa’s peers in helping her through this tough time. “One thing the School of Agriculture prides itself on is treating everyone like family,” said Knupp. “This student-run benefit speaks to the heart of our students. There is nothing quite like the spirit of a Leatherneck.” Karissa has been away from Macomb for two weeks now and has relied on her supportive professors to make sure she gets all her schoolwork done during this challenging period. “Jana has been working tirelessly to make sure that Karissa is keeping up with her assignments,” said Bland. “She seems to be doing the best with the situation she’s been given.” Karissa’s great personality has inspired her peers to come together for her in her time of need and it’s truly moving to see students organizing this event to help a fellow Leatherneck. “She’s just one of the sweetest people I’ve ever met,” said Bland. “Her and I had an instant connection.” The team has put together a Facebook page with all the details of the luncheon and the silent auction at http:// bit.ly/2CRYhnG ,along with a gofundme page at bit.ly/KGraves18.
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THE DEEP HOLLOW Saturday March 3, 2018 7:00 pm
Tickets: online at TSPR.com By phone: 298-1873 or 800-895-2912 Tri States Public Radio Members—$10 General Public —$15 Canned good for local food pantry
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
STAFF MEMBERS editor-in-chief Nicholas Ebelhack 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
proofreader Alexis Lowe AL-Lowe@wiu.edu proofreader Tacuma Venzant T-Venzant@wiu.edu photo editor Becca Langys RE-Langys@wiu.edu production manager Jimmy Pierson JM-Pierson@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
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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. The WC is printed by The Galesburg Register-Mail in Galesburg, Ill.
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Lawsuit from front page
On Monday, several community members spoke about the lawsuit, claiming a lack of faith in the school’s administration and in how it handles cases of sexual assault and harassment. The school board offered no comment about pending litigation, though Twomey would comment personally on complaints that Macomb teachers don’t care about their students. “Teachers here absolutely love children,” Twomey said. “They’re compassionate.” The suit claims both Rumley and Fulkerson responded with ignorance towards multiple claims made by the plaintiffs, citing that Rumley
Plunge from front page
The Special Olympics are one of Alpha Sigma Alpha’s national philanthropies. Last year, they raised over $2,500 for an event that is very dear to their president’s heart. “I want to be an occupational therapist, so doing events like this solidifies that my purpose is to work with individuals with disabilities,” said Hilt. “Alpha Sigma Alpha is dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities.” Chi Omega has participated in the plunge for the last two years and hopes to continue doing so to support their friends at Alpha Sigma Alpha and the great athletes who benefit from the fundraiser. “It is important for Chi Omega to participate in the Polar Plunge because of the great philanthropy,” said Chi Omega Chapter President Marrion Ore. “Special Olympics is a big
Friday, March 2, 2018 allegedly responded “guys are going to do what guys are going to do,” and that Fulkerson responded that he would not disrupt his school for “girls that accuse people of things.” The district’s response continues to say that they are taking the allegations seriously, and acknowledge that the nature of the suit has caused community concern. “We ask that you respect the privacy of the individuals directly involved, and we urge you to respect the judicial process and as it moves forward to determine the circumstances of the issues raid,” reads the statement. “The Board and the Administration take the safety, well-being, and concerns of our students and all in our community very seriously.” part of a lot of our sisters lives from personal connections and it supports so many wonderful people.” Chi Omega has raised $386 this year and is continuing to raise more until the day of the event. The chapter was prompted to participate in the event largely due to the advocacy of Carlee Fosco, who has worked with Special Olympics since she was 10 years old. “It is beyond important for everyone to support Special Olympics because spirit is defined by perseverance, and the Special Olympics is the embodiment of that,” said Fosco. “The athletes are so dedicated and love being able to compete with a smile on their faces.” Registration can be done at plungeillinois.com or by contacting Jennifer Davis at (309) 734-5903 or by email at jdavis@soill.org. “Special Olympics is all about inclusion and you truly see that at every event,” said Fosco. “Being able to volunteer and support Special Olympics is one of the best things I am able to do!”
NEWS 3
Friday, March 2, 2018
4 OPINIONS
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JIMMY PEARSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER
The school shooting in Parkland, Florida that occured on Valentine's Day struck sorrow amongst the nation. I am angered by the precious lives lost in this senseless act. Though our government is working on putting stricter gun laws into play, my main concern is the allegations about the mental health of the gunman, Nikolas Cruz. Many argue that Cruz, who is 19 years old, suffered from mental health issues due to being bullied in school. James Holmes, who shot up a Colorado movie theatre back in 2012, was also believed to be mentally ill. The same for Sandy
Hook shooter, Adam Lanza. This coincidental pattern of “mental health” has more to do with skin color than mental illness, in my opinion, and it’s time that we as a country stop making excuses for only certain people. I am tired of seeing African Americans being stereotypically labeled, while excuses are being made for Caucasians, who are just as responsible for their wrongdoings as any minority. For one, I am fully aware of the mental health crisis in this country. I have close friends and family members who’ve been dealing with it their en-
tire lives. I also know that many students experience bullying in their lifetime, as Cruz did when he attended Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, before he was kicked out. I too was bullied all the way up until the end of my sophomore year in high school, both physically and verbally. Yes, bullying can take a toll on the mentality of students, especially younger ones who are more vulnerable and easily influenced. I also sympathize with those who’ve experienced the horror of being laughed at and not feeling socially accepted, because I experienced it first-hand. However, being bullied is NOT an excuse to go in a school and shoot a bunch of innocent students and faculty members. This country often makes excuses when it comes to people
committing mass murders, particularly white people. Other factors are often disregarded and we are forced to believe that they are “mentally ill.” Whereas black people, both innocent and guilty, are portrayed as “thugs” and “gangsters” in the eyes of the law, as well as a threat to society. President Donald Trump even tweeted, “so many signs that the Florida shooter was mentally disturbed...Neighbors and classmates knew he was a big problem.” This statement did not come to me as a surprise, considering Trump’s unsettling reputation. But in reality, Cruz is just a troubled young man who used his obsession with lethal weaponry to seek revenge on his former high school. He’s a murderer. A lot of us pretend not to see it but it’s a topic that needs to
be discussed. Race does play a role in how criminals are portrayed to the public. Cruz, Holmes and Lanza, just to name a few, were all white men who carried out mass shootings in this country. Yet, black men such as Trayvon Martin, Mike Brown, and Eric Garner, and many more were all killed by police because they were racially profiled. Today, racism is still a heavy issue that’s weighing down our society and causing a divide in our country. In order to unite, we must acknowledge these social biases and realize that we are all capable of doing the same things, and that we should be rewarded and disciplined in the same manner, regardless of skin color. Criminals should simply be seen as criminals, let’s take responsibility for our actions.
Investigate Parkland officers Following the Florida school shooting that happened this past Valentine’s Day, there have been continued investigations about whether the police handled the shooting as they were supposed to. The Broward County Sheriff’s Department and the Coral Springs Police Department were the two primary agencies that responded to the call of the shooting. Ever since the incident, they have been uncovering more and more evidence that multiple deputies from the sheriff’s department didn’t follow the correct pro-
tocol. One of these deputies was even the assigned school resource officer, Deputy Scot Peterson. According to multiple Coral Springs officers, when they arrived at the school on Feb. 14, Deputy Peterson along with multiple other deputies were waiting outside of the school with their weapons drawn behind their squad vehicles. Three Coral Springs officers showed up minutes later and were the first to enter the school. Following the Coral Springs officers, new deputies from the Broward Sheriff’s De-
partment arrived and entered but the first ones, including the school officer, still did not enter the building. This has drawn a lot of criticism to the sheriff’s department as well as to Deputy Peterson and the other deputies that arrived first to the school, but failed to enter. He is claiming that the gunshots were outside and he was following protocol for an outdoor shooting. An investigation is being held over whether these deputies acted correctly but after being put on suspension without pay, Deputy Peterson has now resigned from the department. The Sheriff of the Broward Department is under much scrutiny over this situation and has even been told by many public officials that he
himself should resign. Sheriff Israel; however, made a statement about the case saying, “I gave him a gun. I gave him a badge. I gave him the training. If he didn’t have the heart to go in, that’s not my responsibility.” Whether or not Deputy Peterson really was just acting as a coward or truly did believe it was an outside shooting is still under investigation, but being a law enforcement major this whole situation is very angering. No, I don’t believe having him enter the school alone would be the correct move, that is merely suicide. However, once the other officers arrived I fully believe they should have entered instead of posting up outside of the school. For all we know that could have
saved multiple lives if they would have found the shooter themselves since they were the first responders. In my opinion police officers don’t get paid nearly enough, and nowhere in the job description does it say you have to jump in front of a bullet and give your life for your department, but there is a duty to uphold and Deputy Peterson and the others that waited outside did not uphold this duty. When you become an officer, you take an oath to serve and protect and in this situation, the only people these deputies seemed to be worried about was protecting themselves. I hope that the truth comes out from the investigation and that all of the officers that acted cowardly get rightfully charged.
Friday, March 2, 2018
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OPINIONS 5
Give Greek Workers deserve life a chance good treatment too During the fall semester I was not able to join any Greek life organizations, because I was in a program at the University that would not allow it. I was very frustrated at first, but eventually I just told myself that I would not like it anyway. Everyone has different opinions on sororities and fraternities but personally after finding out I could not join, I thought they were pointless. But in the last few weeks my mind has changed because of some of my closest friends. I am now in the new member process of joining a sorority and it may have been one of the best decisions I have made in the last year. There are several perks of joining Greek life, but the one that I have enjoyed the most is all of the new friends I have made in just a few weeks. I have a few really close friends that I love dearly, but I have loved getting to know new people and how they relate to me. I have always heard people say that if you are apart of Greek life, then you’re just buying your friends. I understand where they are coming from, but it is so much more than that. In these last few weeks I have already made new bonds with people, who I never thought I would interact with. Another reason why I really enjoy sorority life is because it encourages me to excel in my academics. There is a minimum GPA I had to meet
in order to join and since I was already in a program that prohibited me from Greek life until I had certain grades, it was a reward to me. Each week we have to get study hours in at the library, and even though I do not like studying in the library, I do get a lot accomplished when I am there. At the beginning of the semester I was not involved in anything except for cheerleading. When I did have free time, I wasn’t exactly sure I knew what I wanted to do. But when you are apart of Greek life there are so many activities that you get to participate in. Each sorority and fraternity has their own philanthropy event that they raise money for and they are all amazing. Dance Marathon, Westerns Got Talent, and American Cancer Association Walk are just a few philanthropy events that are put on by different Greek organizations. There are several other benefits that come along with going Greek, no matter what organization you choose; each one has so many things to offer. Coming from someone who was not very interested, I highly recommend that everyone look into it. I know that not everyone will enjoy this lifestyle, but it gives you the opportunity to be apart of something bigger than yourself and I highly recommend the experience to everyone!
Editorial Policy The editoral views of the Western Courier shall be confined to this editorial and are to be separate from news coverage otherwise noted. The editoral presented is based on the ideas and views of the WC editoral board.Columns are the opinions of the columnists alone and should not be construed as the opinions and beliefs of the WC staff as a whole.
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2018 Spring Semester Editorial Board Editor-in-Cheif - Nicholas Ebelhack Edge Editor - Baylee Bryntesson Opinions Editor - Ryan Zurek
Most people my age tend to work in customer service jobs, since a majority are still students and do not have many skills to qualify for anything else. First time jobs include cashiers, restaurant hostesses, and anything that would involve helping and directing customers at an establishment. It took me months to find a job, before I found one at Texas Roadhouse as a hostess. This job was not a difficult one, but at times it was not just a place for me to kick back and relax, because of the high volume of customers that came to the resturant on a daily basis. It was absolutely mind blowing how many people this restaurant attracted, let alone the kinds of people that would show up. As a hostess it was my job to make sure people felt welcome as they entered and help direct them to where they needed to be, whether they wanted a table or they
were ordering their meal togo. This job takes almost no effort, because it’s not that hard to welcome guests and seat them. What took the most effort was handling the angry guests that came in on most days. It is mind blowing to see how angry a customer could be towards someone who is there to simply greet guests and direct them to their table. I had never been disrespected or called names until I started working there. I think it is important that people realize how they treat workers that deal mainly with customers on a daily basis. It is beyond frustrating when people come in to complain about things that are beyond an employee’s control, let alone someone who is just a hostess at a restaurant. A hostess does not have much control or say in anything, so personally I think it is a waste of time to become angry at one of us. Most customers
want to take their frustrations out on us employees, so that they can get a free meal. Many customers also assume that our age has to do with our job performance as well. Majority of the time, the customer is not always right and that is the truth, some people just need to trust that maybe the employees know what they are actually doing. But when we come across those who do anything to show appreciation and respect towards employees, it brightens our day and makes our job worth coming in for everyday. It is hard to go to a job where most people look down on those in customer service or other jobs in general. It can make a huge difference if people would take a step back and think about how it can affect our day the way they treat us. I find that those who are kind and show understanding of how hectic and difficult our jobs can be make a difference. Seeing happy customers leave and thank me instead of expressing negative thoughts makes my job much easier to handle and I appreciate those who do.
Friday, March 2, 2018
6 SPORTS
Basketball from back page
On the other side of the court, South Dakota State holds more talent, awards, and banners than Western. In the last seven years SDSU has held five banners. Their awards this year make a long list. Senior guard Mike Daum won Summit League Player of the year. Over the year he won seven Summit League player of the week awards. Four players on The Summit League teams, freshman guard David Jenkins won freshman of the year, and coach T.J.
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Otzelberger won coach of the year. The awards are endless, and they look to come out swinging in the Summit League Tournament. They must back up all their wins, records and awards with a dominating performance in the tournament. They want to win against Western one last time and advance in the tournament to win the official title. Can Western upset the dominating Jacks, or will SDSU showcase their continuing dynasty in the Summit League once again? To find out tune in to 88.3 dog as Aaron Jones and Brendan Reidy call the live action on March 3, at 6 p.m.
FILE PHOTO
Mitch Ellis winds up for his at bat.
Baseball from back page
Delo Bruster puts up the finger-roll layup.
The Purple Aces are led offensively by sophomore infielder Troy Beilsmith with a batting average of .381. Followed by freshman Infielder Tanner Craig at .333 and senior catcher Travis Tokarek at .304. Western Illinois is looking to capture their first win of the season and this weekend is the perfect opportunity for that. The University of Evansville is currently on a five-game los-
FILE PHOTO
CLASSIFIEDS
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For Rent
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Submit a classifieds ad to Micour@wiu.edu
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. Westen Investments has only two 4-Bedroom brich houses available. Call our office at 309-833-5995 to schedule a showing! We will show to 2-3 person groups as well!
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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. Westen Investments has just one 3-Bedroom ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED (Water, Sewer, Trash, Gas, Electric, and Internet) Apartment left! That’s right you just pay for rent, and the rest of it is on us! Call our office at 309-833-5995 to check it out. 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.
ing streak. The last time the Leathernecks faced the Purple Aces was in the 2015 season. The two teams split a four-game series held in Emerson, Georgia. The Purple and Gold remain on the road for the next two weeks and will face opponents such as Indiana State University and Indiana University. Their home opener is set for March 16, against North Dakota State University. This will also be the first Summit League matchup of the season for the Leathernecks. Twitter: hayfourrr
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. Ceiling fans and a/c. Professionally maintained. No pets. 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. (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
Friday, March 2, 2018
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James Harden crosses up Los Angeles
Houston Rockets' James Harden looks to shoot.
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When you’re a professional athlete, all eyes are on you 24 hours a day. Contrary to the popular belief, athletes make the same amount of mistakes as an everyday person does. They also get embarrassed just like we do, but there was a particularly embarrassing play that occurred on Wednesday night that I really want to shine a light onto. It was a clear spring night in Los Angeles on the final night of February and the Los Angeles Clippers were scheduled to host the best team currently in the NBA, the Houston Rockets. These two teams had the most ludicrous spat of the NBA season earlier this year when real life turned into a movie and the Rockets used diversions and secret tunnels hidden within the Staples Center, in an attempt to sneak into the Clippers locker room and fight one of the most disliked players in the NBA and son of the Clippers’ head coach, Austin Rivers. On the second meeting of the season between the two bitter rivals, the game began like any other. The Clippers have been one of the worst teams in the league this season and after they traded Blake Griffin to Detroit, they cemented their place as a rebuilding franchise. So naturally, the Rockets were making the Clippers look like the Flint Tropics from “Semi-Pro” before they traded to get Monix. Only 10:34 into the game, the Rockets were already leading by 21 points which is already embarrassing enough for an NBA team to say “Ah, we gave it our best shot, can we head to the locker room yet?” But then, MVP front-runner, James “The Beard” Harden, decided to absorb the entire city of Houston in his very large face accessory so they would have to listen to his uproarious laughter after he performed the most disrespectful act of the
NBA season. With 1:22 left in the first quarter, Harden met NBA veteran Wesley Johnson at the left arch of the threepoint line. Harden squared his shoulders and began to size up the 30-yearold defender. His first move was a dribble between the legs to get a gauge on how close Johnson was guarding him, he then drove towards the basket with Johnson blanketed on his right arm. It was at that moment, Johnson knew he messed up. The Beard then pulled out a step-back dribble that immediately turned Johnsons legs into a pair of Sour Punch Straws. Johnson was left in a position that is never good to be in on a basketball court, sitting on his gluteus maximus. Ask any basketball player and they will tell you that getting crossed over so bad that you fall, is one of their worst nightmares. This has only happened to me once in my basketball playing career. I lived in South Korea for a while because my dad was in the military, so we lived on a military base and there was a gym called Kelly Gym, where I spent most of my time playing basketball, because there wasn’t much else to do that I was interested in. My friends and I would play pickup games with soldiers who never really had that great of basketball skills to begin with. There was one day we were playing a pickup game and I was guarding one of my friends and there was a wet spot on the floor. My friend was wide open on the three-point line and I knew he was a shooter and I didn’t want to let him have a wide-open shot, so I went out to guard him. He pump-faked and began to dribble as I reached the arch and then I slipped. My knees clacked together like Bambi and I was left looking up at the ceiling of Kelly Gym, as my life flashed before my eyes.
In pickup games, when somebody falls for whatever reason during the game, it stops. But when somebody gets crossed up and falls, the game stops and everyone runs around screaming and laughing at that person. And that is exactly what happened to me. I got up and tried to explain that there was a wet spot on the floor and looked for a person to support me in my darkest of moments and say that I was too good to be crossed up and fall the way that I did. The game went on, but I was never the same that day. I went home and just stared at my feet for the remainder of the night and asked them what I did to make them betray me the way they did. Even though this was one of the most embarrassing experiences of my basketball playing career, it’s nothing compared to Johnson’s. There Johnson was, sitting on the floor of Staples Center looking out at the crowd, just a little bit outside the paint and under the free throw line. Harden was at the three-point line standing all alone. Harden then decided to stand there and stare admiring the wreckage of the nuclear bomb that he had detonated. It seemed like he stared at Johnson for a long period of time, but in reality, it was only three seconds. It’s amazing the difference three seconds makes in the grand scheme of things. If Harden had just crossed over Johnson, made him fall and immediately shot the ball, the play would most certainly be on SportsCenter the following day. It would be talked about for weeks and possibly months. The play is already being called one of the most disrespectful plays in NBA history and it would be hard for anyone to argue against it. I want to send my condolences to the Johnson family. Johnson is a father of two twin boys and I don’t know what he is going to tell them about his personal tragedy. If I was him, I’d probably just start homeschooling my boys and ban them from watching television for the remainder of their lives.
Golf has individual success at invitational
SPRING, Texas— The Western Illinois men's golf team competed in the 2018 Colin Montgomerie Houston Baptist University Huskies Intercollegiate. The Leathernecks came in 12th place with three rounds of play after shooting 909 (+28) as a team. “Drew Eaton had an outstanding first day of the tournament, and Jackson Wetherbee's holein-one were the big highlights of the tournament this week.” said head coach Mel Blasi. “It was a ball strikers course at Augusta Pines with very wet and soft conditions. We really struggled from tee to green this week and had trouble adjusting to the Bermuda greens. Despite the struggles, I am confident we will bounce back.” Eaton led the Leathernecks as he finished the tournament shooting a 218 (+2). His best round of the Intercollegiate came in round two, as he shot a 69. His second round effort was the lowest Leatherneck score in any round.
He finished the tournament in 20th place. “Drew is really playing with a lot of confidence right now," said Blasi. "He has worked really hard on his game and it's great to see him get rewarded for his effort.” Trent Snodgrass also played his best golf in the second round, shooting a 75 (+2). He shot a 227 (+11) for the Intercollegiate. Jackson Wetherbee came in third for the Leathernecks, after he completed the tournament with a 229 (+13). After shooting a 77 in the first round, Wetherbee tallied 76 strokes in each of the last two rounds. Sean Miller came in 69th overall after compiling 235 (+19) after two days of work. Dennis Reedy rounded out the top five Leathernecks with a three-day total of 241 (+25). The Purple and Gold will be back on the course March 12, for a three-day slate at the Oral Roberts Invitational in Irving, Texas. GoLeathernecks.com
Drew Eaton in action on the course.
GOLEATHERNECKS.COM
Necks prepare for tournament By Michael Harms courier staff
Western Illinois University will try to stay sane during their March Madness games. It takes place in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Their first game will be against The South Dakota State Jack Rabbits. The game will be at Denny Sanford Premier Center at 6 p.m. on March 3. Western Illinois enters the game as an eight seed, with a conference record of 3-11, SDSU is currently first seed, with a conference record of 13-1. Western looks to prove the world wrong with challenging the number one seed. Their upsetting season has had head coach Billy Wright, nervous on the outcome of the team. He has one more year on his contract, but with a sub-par season he must prove that his team can compete where it matters most. The only three conference wins were from Fort Wayne, North Dakota State and Oral Roberts. Posting such a low winning percentage does not look good for Wright, but he hopes to turn it around and compete with the Jack Rabbits. They have a 9.2 percent chance of winning
their first game, and after the first two matchups looks to be a blowout. In the first matchup the Leathernecks lost by 28 and the second time lost by 20. If Wright can bring his team within single digits to the Jack Rabbits, it will show improvement and hopefully showcase returning talent for Western’s future. Western’s season was not filled only with defeat. Junior forward Brandon Gilbeck won defensive player of the year for the summit league, as he averages 2.5 blocks per game and 4.6 rebounds per game. His efforts earned him a spot on the All Summit League team as he also led the summit league shooting 62.5 percent from the field. His efforts show promise for the Leathernecks and yet there is still more to look forward too. The leader for Western is freshman guard Kobe Webster. He averages 17.4 points per game and 3.6 assists per game. Webster’s swagger brings life to the Leathernecks and it will be interesting how he performs under the limelight.
Basketball page 6
Brandon Gilbeck keeps his eye on the ball on defense.
FILE PHOTO
Baseball seeks first win in Evansville By Haley Richards
assistant sports editor
Deion Thompson waits at third base.
ARIEL RAMIREZ/COURIER STAFF
EVANSVILLE, Ind.-- The Western Illinois baseball team will hit the road for the third weekend in a row for another three-game series. The Leathernecks will be taking on the University of Evansville. The first game is scheduled for Friday and the first pitch set for 3 p.m. The next two games will be split, one on Saturday and the last game of the series is set for Sunday at 1 p.m. The Purple and Gold are currently 0-6 on the season after facing back-to-back series losses against Middle Tennessee State University and Murray State University. The Purple Aces are currently 1-5 on their season. They have faced schools such as the University of Dayton, University of Kentucky, and Kennesaw State University. Their one win was their opening weekend where they captured a 9-8 victory over Fordham University. Western nearly won their last game against Murray State, however, a two-run walk-off in the bottom of the ninth resulted in a heartbreaking loss. “We squeezed every ounce out of the game today,” said
head coach Ryan Brownlee. “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.” The twelve pitchers used in the game ranged from freshman pitchers such as Jace Warkentien to veterans like senior pitcher Pete Minella. “We will need everybody throughout the season, and didn't want to go two weekends not seeing what we have. We talked about not chasing results yesterday.” Brownlee said. “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.” Taking a look at the Leathernecks offensively, senior infielder Mitch Ellis leads the team with a batting average of .583. Freshman infielder Dillon Sears hold the second highest batting average at .375 followed by senior infield Jonathan Fleek at .364.
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