Opinions: Recognize the impact of service dogs.
Sports: Ranking the best teams in NCAA basketball.
Sports: Football celebrates MVCF selections.
Wednesday, December 5, 2018 - Vol. 119 Issue 42
AWARD-WINNING STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF WESTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY. SERVING MACOMB SINCE 1905.
City Council discusses possible solar panel garden
felicia selmon/ courier staff
Community Development Coordinator John Bannon (left) and City Administrator (Dean Torreson) discuss potential benefits of installing a new solar panel on the northside of University Drive.
By Steven Barnum assistant news editor A solar garden may soon occupy a 28-acre lot on the Northside of University Drive. City Administrator, Dean Torreson, says the garden would only include solar panels, which would be eight feet above the ground. The proposal was discussed in a Nov. 28 planning commission meeting, where
members voted in favor of the project with a 10-0 vote. There was one individual at that meeting who expressed concern, says Community Development Coordinator, John Bannon. “He was concerned about property devaluation and effects on livestock,” Bannon said. City Attorney, Kristen Petrie, says there was no other opposition. Petrie referenced the fact that all property
owners within 250 feet of the possible solar garden were notified and the zoning office received zero concerns. There are several conditions the property would need to meet, like constructing a fence that is seven feet tall, made of mesh and surrounds the entire garden. Bannon believes there are benefits to a solar garden. “It would be a source of green energy, which is always preferable,” Bannon said. “I think
you’re looking at a source of power that will have no longterm impact on that land.” As for the likelihood of the solar garden, residents shouldn’t count on it. “This is only a proposed use,” Bannon said. “There is a lottery in the state of Illinois, so there’s no guarantee that this construction will actually take place.” Torreson wants to make sure the city gets a fair chance. “It’s important to get the ap-
plication in in a timely manner for the lottery,” Torreson said, “so I would recommend that the city council waive the second reading.” If chosen, the lottery would award tax credits. Macomb would not face any new expenses since the property is not in city limits.
City Council page 2
Reed appoints two new Student Government Association members By Marc Ramirez news editor
FELICIA SELMON/COURIER STAFF
President Grant Reed presents two bills he wrote appointing a new Director of Outreach and Senator-at-Large.
The Student Government Association ended their last meeting of the Fall 2018 semester with two SGA Presidential Bills of Appointment for the 2018-2019 academic year. President Grant Reed authored both bills appointing a new Director of Outreach and filling a vacant Senatorat-Large seat. Alexis WilliamWhite was chosen to replace current Director of Outreach Amber Shupe. Shupe will not be returning to the organization next semester and with
careful consideration, William-White was vetted for the position in accordance with the SGA Constitution. William-White was introduced to the legislative body during last week’s meeting and was officially ratified by the Senate to become the new Director of Outreach by a unanimous vote. The political science major, minoring in marketing and philosophy, thought she would be successful at the job with the views she has for the future.
SGA page 3
FELICIA SELMON/COURIER STAFF
Alexis William-White officially takes the position as Director of Outreach for the spring semester.
2
NEWS
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
City Council
from front page
The council ultimately decided to waive the second reading so that the city could submit an application. Elsewhere in town, Macomb will accept a land donation north of Kiljordan Creek. Dave and Jackie Thompson are gifting the piece of property, which is located on South Pearl Street. The property occupies nearly threefourths of an acre and is made up of mostly green space. Once official, the city will be responsible for mowing the grass and maintaining the land, but they will not owe taxes on the property. Macomb is still mulling over a restricted-parking proposal for Lamoine Retirement Center. In previous discussions, Alderman-
By Marc Ramirez news editor
Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety and the Macomb Police Department wanted to remind students of a couple holiday break safety tips to ensure a successful and happy holiday season. First and foremost, they would like to remind everyone that by locking offices, desks, room doors, vehicles and homes they can guard their personal property regardless of how long they’ll be gone. People are also encouraged to complete an electronic device registration form, which can be found at bit. ly/2DYPzsd. By recording the make, model and serial number of their belongings, it is made easier to return lost or stolen items to their lawful owners. People leaving the Macomb area for the holidays are also advised to take these precautions over the break to make sure they have a happy and safe time at home. Take your laptop, television and gaming consoles home over break, they are the most commonly stolen items. It is also suggested that backpacks and
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
WesternCourier.com at-large, Dennis Moon, and Alderwoman, Gayle Carper, weren’t fully in support of designated parking, but left the door open for a compromise. When the new proposal is discussed at next week’s meeting, limited-minute loading zones on Randolph and Carroll Streets will be up for debate. Alderman, Annette Carper, announced that Lamoine Senior Living Center opened its doors this weekend. Carper is also the executive director of the retirement facility and plans to sustain from the council’s vote on the proposal. Public Works Director, Scott Coker, announced that the wastewater department and street department have found faulty sewers in town. Coker says the sewers they have
identified, which are storm sewers and sanitary sewers, have not “completely failed” but will need to undergo a reconstruction process. The city has $100,000 budgeted for problems like this, with an additional $157,000 in a sewer fund. The council voted to allow Coker to collect bids for the project, which won’t begin until after the winter. To tie a loose end from last week, the city council voted to approve the audit on Macomb’s finances. Dave Meyer from a Joliet, Ill. accounting firm presented the records, which were clean, at last week’s meeting. Meyer described Macomb’s $7 million cash reserve as “healthy” and didn’t find anything that was concerning.
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other items are not left in plain view in cars or unattended when out. The Macomb Police Department and the Office of Public Safety also advocate to always lock doors and windows as well as stopping mail when out of town, by doing this, you can make sure that nothing can be stolen from inside or outside of your residence. Another tip would be to leave lights on or put them on a timer, as burglars often bypass a residence that looks occupied. For items that cannot be taken home, it is advised that people engrave their driver’s license number into these valuables. It makes it harder to sell or pawn off items that have this type of trace on them. Through Macomb Police Department’s Operation ID, people have the chance to check out an engraver to do such. They can visit the department located at 120 S. McArthur St. from 8 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To request extra patrol in your area; contact OPS at (309)-298-1949 or MPD at (309)-833-4505. In case of emergencies call 9-1-1.
STAFF MEMBERS editor-in-chief Devon Greene DJ-Greene@wiu.edu news editor Marc Ramirez MA-Ramirez3@wiu.edu assistant news editor Steven Barnum SS-Barnum@wiu.edu opinions editor Allison Young AN-Young@wiu.edu sports editor Haley Richards H-Richards@wiu.edu assistant sports editor Bradley Piros BJ-Piros@wiu.edu edge editor Jonathan Lynch JJ-Lynch@wiu.edu copy editor Brie Coder B-Coder@wiu.edu
proofreader Amanda Wandachowicz a-wandachowicz@wiu.edu proofreader Chance Darby ca-darby@wiu.edu photo editor Becca Langys RE-Langys@wiu.edu assistant photo editor Sara Remar SE-Remar@wiu.edu production manager Jimmy Pierson JM-Pierson@wiu.edu business manager Faith Rucker F-Rucker@wiu.edu advertising manager Jacob Day JD-Day@wiu.edu adviser Will Buss WJ-Buss@wiu.edu
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Wednesday, December 5, 2018
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SGA
from page 1
She hopes to see people become more involved on campus and with the community. “I want to be that outlet and person people can reach out to when trying to get involved,� WilliamWhite said. OSA Programming Senator Kiki Marshall and Director of Finance Michael Harmon both spoke in favor of the new Executive Cabinet member, expressing their belief in her and her capability and why she should be a part of SGA. Following a similar vote, Reed brought up SGA Presidential Bill of Appointment 20182019.007. The bill was to move forward and confirm Jazeline Rodriguez for the vacant position as
Senator-at-Large. Rodriguez is a junior transfer political science major from Chicago. In her time at community college, Rodriguez served in her student government, making her qualified for the position. Reed described her as always smiling, bubbly and talkative; gauging her interest in working with the student body. As Rodriguez was not in attendance for the meeting, Vice President Madison Lynn spoke in favor for the new Senatorat-Large and stated that she would be a good asset to the room. The room, filling another vacancy in the room, passed this unanimously. The legislative body was able to conduct work during this meeting because with two Senators no longer having voting rights, quorum was brought down to 13 Senators, which was
the amount in the room and the time of roll call. In addition to the business presented during the meeting, Lynn presented the SGA Student of the Month award to students in good academic and judicial standing, as well as give positive contributions to Western through academics, extracurricular activities and Leatherneck pride. SGA proudly gave out four awards, two for both months of Nov. and Dec. During final announcements, Speaker of the Senate Aaron Steele reminded the body that The State of the Student Address would be taking place on April 22, 2019 at 3 p.m. in the Sherman Auditorium. Speakers would include the SGA Speaker of the Senate, the Student Trustee and SGA President. The event is mandatory for all members of the Student Government Association.
NEWS 3
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Classes Meeting T, TH, or T TH ONLY
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wednesday, 8 a.m.
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tuesday, 10 a.m.
10 a.m.
monday, 10 a.m.
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thursday, 10 a.m.
11 a.m.
wednesday, 10 a.m.
12 p.m.
monday, 1 p.m.
1 p.m.
Wednesday, 1 p.m.
2 p.m.
monday, 3 p.m.
3 p.m.
wednesday, 1 p.m.
4 p.m.
Friday, 8 a.m.
12 or 12:30 p.m.
tuesday, 1 p.m.
1 p.m.
thursday, 1 p.m.
2 p.m.
tuesday, 3 p.m.
3 or 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, 3 p.m.
4 p.m.
Friday, 10 a.m.
Monday evening
monday, 6 p.m.
tuesday evening
tuesday, 6 p.m.
Wednesday evening
wenesday, 6 p.m.
thursday evening
Thursday, 6 p.m.
friday evening
friday, 6 p.m.
4 OPINIONS
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
JIMMY PIERSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER
JIMMY PIERSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Greek life is essential in American universities. The stereotypical university experience is rarely missing the notorious tales of late-night partying and next day cleaning, etc. For incoming freshmen students, the freedom that university and Greek life afford are in themselves intoxicating, for example, to go from a rigid-rule oriented household with a curfew and chores cannot begin to compare to the complete opposite in college life. Students go from being told what to do, what they can and cannot wear, what to think and how to feel to being completely free and independent from their parents for the first time in their lives. It is this lack of guardian oversight that lures a large portion of 18 and 19-yearold’s to continue their education (besides the obvious economic advantage of a higher education). Yet, there are differences in policies that regulate how fraternities and sororities are treated by the university administration. For example, it has always been university policy to allow and in some cases (albeit not publicly) encourage fraternities to socialize and party. It is permissible for university fraternities to host/throw their own parties without university oversight. These are the parties we have all attended, the parties that are infamously portrayed in mainstream movies and the media. How one may feel about this, whether they are good (in order to socialize and relieve stress) or if they are bad (sexual assault and alcoholism/drug abuse), whether or not fraternities should be
allowed to throw parties is up for debate, what is not up for debate is the obvious gender bias. For example, it is current university policy to not allow and outright discourage sororities from hosting parties, even small ones like birthday parties. It is also university policy to forbid alcohol in any capacity within sorority houses. This is based on gender biases; it is permissible for men to drink, smoke and party but it's not allowed for women. This is, in my view, openly sexist to both male and female university students. It is openly sexist towards women for the obvious reasons mentioned above. According to the university policies and their inherent intent, women cannot govern themselves and are apparently incapable of enjoying their freedoms in a civilized manner. These university policies are also sexist towards men because they are held to a lower standard than women, by these policies, not expected to behave, not expected to follow the rules, not expected to refrain from alcohol and drugs. According to these current university policies, women are held to a higher standard of behavior than their male counterparts and men are expected to not be capable of self-restrain. These policies are enforcing century old gender roles and should be removed because today, men and women are equal and ought to be treated as such in all aspects of life, including university Greek life. In other words, let women enjoy themselves for once.
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As many of us know, George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States of America, died this past Friday. Bush served as president from January of 1989 to January of 1993. Many of us have seen the social media photo of President Bush’s casket with his service dog laying in front, but what many of us don’t know is the major role that dog played in our former president’s life. Before Bush was President, he served as a United States Naval Aviator from 1942-1945. He was awarded an Air Medal and a Distinguished Flying Cross medal for his duty during World War II. During his retirement, he was unfortunately diagnosed with a form of Parkinson’s disease called Vascular Parkinsonism, which led him to have to use a wheelchair to get around. Around June of 2018, the former president had help from a service dog as well as emotional support after the passing of his beloved wife, Barbara Bush. Sully H.W. Bush is a trained service dog for the military veterans from a non-profit organization, America’s Vetdogs, based out of New York. Though they only spent six months together, I believe that they both made an impact on each other’s lives. Sully was with the former president until his last day. Even sparking a trend on social media during his last day with the former president. It is reported that Sully will now help other disabled veterans after the passing of his first master. I have read articles calling Sully a hero for lying down and staying next to former President Bush’s casket, and others that bashed on those for their emotional reaction to the photo
that emerged on social media just days after the 41st presidents passing. My thoughts are with the Bush family, no matter what my views are politically because nothing is worse than having a member of your family pass, especially just months after his wife passed. My reason for this article is not to talk about the 41st presidents political views, but to talk to you all about the importance that service dogs bring to those that are physically and emotionally disabled, or as a support service dog. I believe that the best thing that the Bush’s could do for that dog is to let him find a new companion with someone who needs him, because that is something that he was trained for. From the photo that emerged, it also shows how passionate Sully was even just six months with the former president. Services dogs are important because they provide assistance to those who have mental illness, hearing impairments, visual difficulties, seizures, autism, diabetes, emotional disabilities and other disabilities. A services dog will work up to 10 years and even may have many owners, but will make an important impact on those who need them. Not just any dog can be or should be registered to be a service dog. I believe that those who want a service dog need to go through extensive training depending on the disability as well as how independent or dependent people who need service dogs are. For President Bush, Sully was not just an emotional support dog or a physical service dog, but a family member to the Bush family.
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
@WesternCourier
OPINIONS 5
Traveling can bring us several opportunities worried about the craziness of the airports. Usually I like to be an hour early in smaller airports and two hours early in bigger airports. When switching planes, I make sure to grab some snacks and drinks if I know it is going to be a longer flight. I enjoy traveling because it allows me to see other countries and cultures. It also allows me to get out of the comfort of my hometown and socialize with other people outside of my atmosphere. I especially enjoy planes that fly overseas because they have access to so many new movies, and you can spend the entire plane ride watching movies if you cannot sleep. I also enjoy traveling because it allows me to see my family who are all around the globe. Traveling is something everyone should do at least once in their life to understand how in-
Planes are common ways for people to travel internationally.
PIXABAY
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With the holiday season fully upon us, traveling is a lot more common. I am going to Germany over the holiday break, meaning I will be travelling a lot. Personally, I have been traveling my whole life due to having many military family members, but it never gets easier. The drive to the airport is rarely fun, especially in bigger cities. It is usually early in the morning and you just need a few more hours of sleep. Airport security always takes longer than it should, and you just want to sit down. When traveling alone it is sometimes scary for many reasons, you must make sure you are through security in time to find your gate before boarding. You also never know who you will have to sit by, and finally the ride itself. I have traveled alone a few times overseas, but this time it will be very close to the holidays, so I am
teresting it can be. With traveling overseas for the new year, I am planning on taking time away from school to relax and prepare for the spring semester. While doing those things, I will also be traveling to places like France and Prague. Traveling to new places when you have the opportunity is so important because if you do not leave your hometown you are unable to see the world in your own eyes, instead you'll only see the world through the news and the Internet. Traveling can be both scary and fun, but when you get to your destination it will be worth it to gain all the knowledge and experience you can. In the future, I hope traveling will become easier and less expensive to allow everyone an equal chance to see the world. Traveling should be something everyone gets to experience no matter what age you are. Personally, traveling is something that has improved me as a person and I am so lucky to have the opportunity to travel as much as I do.
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6 SPORTS
Football from back page
Swenson is a two-year starter, sacked the opposing quarterback in all but one game this season and ranks third in the FCS leading the MVDC in sacks (14.5). The Iowa native leads the nation in TFLs (24.5 for a combined 109-yard loss), team leader with seven QB hurries and ties third in the MVFC in forced fumbles (3). Swenson finished the year with 60 tackles. There were four Leathernecks named to the second team. Senior wide receiver LeSure, from Mount Horeb, Wis. LeSure is a two-year starter and Western’s active leader in receiving yards (1,318) and touchdowns (12). Setting in as third on the team in receiving years (615) while also ranking 10th in the MVFC receptions per game (4.1). LeSure seized a careerhigh of 170 receiving yards vs. NDSU (second most in a single-games from a Leatherneck this season). Senior linebacker Quentin Moon, from Indianapolis, Ind., was honored as the 2016 and 2017 All-MVFC Honorable Mention. Moon has been a twoyear team captain, as well as a three-year starter. He competed in seven games with 10-plus tackles this season, and ranks 15th in the nation and third in the MVFC in tackles (109). MVFC leader in forced fumbles (5), ninth in the FCS in solo tackles and added five quarter-
back hurries. Senior defensive back Justin Fitzpatrick, from O’Fallon, Mo., was also apart of the 2017 Second Team All-MFVC. As a two-year starter and team captain of this season, Fitzpatrick ties for eighth in the Valley in passes defended and ties for team lead with nine pass breakups and two interceptions. Racking up 58 tackles and one forced fumble along with a career-best 11 tackles versus UNI this season (9 solo/2 assist). Senior running back McShane, from Freeport, Ill. Placed on 2016 (RB) and 2017 (RB/RS) Second Team AllMVFC. McShane is a three-year starter, team leader in rushing with 672 yards (ranks 10th in the MFVC), and third on the team in receiving yards (403). In the MVFC, tied for third in touchdowns (seven rushes, five passes and one return) and sixth (34th in the nation) in allpurpose yards. McShane puts in second in the Valley in punt return average of 9.0 including a returning punt of 58 yards for a touchdown versus Montana. He recorded a 75-yard rushing touchdown vs. Youngstown State and 65-yard rushing touchdown vs. Indiana State. He has two games this season with 100-plus rushing yards (143 versus Missouri State, 134 versus Youngstown State). McShane, who was named above as a return specialist, also joined Sean McGuire and Xavier Rowe on the honorable mention list as a running back.
The last two players to receive acolades were named to the all-conference honorable mention team. Senior quarterback Sean McGuire, from Franklin, Wis. He received the 2016 and 2017 All-MVFC Honorable Mention. McGuire is a threeyear team captain, three-year starter and Western’s alltime leader in passing yards, touchdown, completions and attempts. Sitting in as second of all-time in the MVFC with 9,819 career passing yards and second this season in passing average per game (263.1). In the Valley, McGuire is third in total offense (2,901) and third (20th in the nation) in passing TDs (21). Competed in four games with 300-plus passing yards (Montana, Youngstown State, Missouri State, Northern Iowa). Senior defensive back Rowe, from Oak Park, Ill. As a fouryear starter and Western’s active leader with 43 career stats, Rowe ties for fifth in the MVFC in passes defended, and ties as the team leader with nine pass breakups. All three interceptions occurred in conference play, along with 41-recorded tackles. Western determined its 2018 slate fifth in league standing with a record of 4-4, 5-6 overall. According to the Massey Ratings’ strength of schedule index, the Leathernecks played the second toughest schedule in the FCS, highlighted by Top 25 wins over Montana and Northern Iowa.
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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: Leasing season has officailly begun, and we’re showing properties now! 1-5 bedroom houses close to campus are ready to be leased for this upcoming school year! Call our office at 309-833-5995 to schedule an appointment! Stay updated with us on Twitter @Western_Invest STC Investments now leasing for the 18/19 school year. We have 1-6 bedroom apartments/houses ready for you to call home! Check out our selection at www.stcinvestments.com. You can also find us on Facebook to see daily posts!
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Austin Peay fought back closing in near the end of the third, but the Leathernecks remained in the lead 58-52 headed into the fourth. The Governors made it close quickly hitting an outside shot, but the Leathernecks answered with an easy layup from a great pass by Kauffman. Ferby hit a midrange jumper to bring them within three, but once more the Leathernecks separated themselves with strong inside play for an easy two. Then Ferby who would not go down without a fight, hit a three to come even closer to the lead. After Gilmore hit two free throws Ferby once more put the pressure on with back- to- back threes closing the gap evening up the game at 72 with 41 seconds to play. With the game in balance Kauffman stepped up, driving hard to the basket with a great move, and put in the up and under to take the lead. Then a turnover by the Governors and the Leathernecks wrapped it up hitting their free throws to close it out and secure a close win. The game’s highlights came from Kauffman’s 25 points and Taylor Higginotham doubledouble with 14 points and 12 rebounds. These two upperclassmen showcased how dominant the Leathernecks can be with tough competition, and will hope to take this momentum on the road as their next matchup is against Bradley University. 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. 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 Still have some nice large locations available at reasonable prices. Excellent service- 24 hour emergency maintenance. 1-8 bedrooms, locations on/off campus available ‘18-’19 school year. Pets at some locations. Check us out at rentcollegepads.com. If interested, please call F & H Rentals 309/837-1705. 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.
Sports 7
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
@WesternCourier
NCAA basketball top five picks
It’s the busiest time of year in sports; every sport is seemingly in season. The NFL is gearing up for the playoffs, as well as college football. Baseball ended not too long ago and basketball, both collegiate and professional is starting to begin their respective seasons. While most know who will be the contenders for the NBA title based on last year, college basketball brings a different dynamic. Many of the teams that were factors in last year ’s March Madness tournament have lost a good percentage of their contributing players, including the national champions Villanova University Wildcats. That’s the beauty of college basketball; the large roster turnover year after year gives new teams a chance at winning the championship. Since college football is coming to an end and Superbowl season is looming, many fans will switch their attention to college basketball. Here are my early predictions on the five best teams fans should watch for. First is the Kansas University Jayhawks. Head coach Bill Self has Kansas playing good basketball, again! For about the 100th straight year, Kansas is the favorite to win the Big 12 conference and this year, it might be close.
The Jayhawks are No. 2 in the country with a perfect 6-0 record that includes wins over two top 10 teams, the Michigan State University Spartans and the University of Tennessee Volunteers. KU started the year ranked No. 1 until the Duke University Blue Devils came out the gate in a stunning fashion. Then Gonzaga University Bulldogs took over the No. 1 spot after beating Duke at the Maui Invitational Tournament. Regardless of the rankings, I think Kansas is the number one team in the country and my early favorite to win the NCAA tournament. University of Memphis transfer Dedric Lawson is having an outstanding year, averaging 19 points 11 rebounds, as well as three and a half assists. They also have other big time players like senior LaGerald Vick who leads them with 21 points a game. Along with those two superstar talents, they have high rated freshman Devon Dotson and Quentin Grimes, with 7-foot-1 Udoka Azubuike starting at center. He’s averaging a solid 15 points, six rebounds and 2 blocks a game. KU has several bench players that were in the starting line-up at their previous school, most notably Charlie Moore, a former
four-star recruit. This Kansas roster is well wired; their only weakness might be depth on the inside. The second team to watch for is the Gonzaga Bulldogs. The Zags might be the best at this point. They proved a lot to me at Maui, when they beat not just Duke, but two other Power Five conference teams. Winning three games in three days proves how good head coach Mark Few’s coaching skills really are. However, I don’t think they have the firepower to beat a team like Kansas, and while they are better than Duke now, I don’t think I will be able to say the same by tournament time. Junior Rui Hachimura is their best player and he’s currently averaging 22 points a game, but in my opinion he can be game-planned to stop. That will force guards Zach Norvell Jr. and Josh Perkins to score more. These two players are capable but they are also streaky. Gonzaga doesn’t get much scoring off its bench and their other starter transfer Brandon Clarke is more of a defender and rebounder than an offense guy. He’s averaging 17 points at the moment but I expect that to slowing decline as the season goes on. Third is the University of Michigan Wolverines, surprise, surprise. Coming in at number three on my list, I have last year ’s runner-up, as the Michigan Wolverines. They lost their best player Mo Wagner to the NBA last year, but filled his spot
well with freshman Ignas Brazdeikis. Brazdeikis is averaging 16.3 points a game this season, which leads the team. Many people thought Michigan would take a step back this year with the loss of Wagner, but nobody anticipated that head coach John Beilein would fill his role so fast, especially with a freshman. With championship experience, along with big time guards Jordan Poole and Charles Matthews, I think the Wolverines have a good recipe to repeat what they did last year in the NCAA tournament. They are currently No. 5 in the country with an 8-0 record. Next is the Duke Blue Devils. One of the best recruiting class I’ve ever seen is going to mature, and when they do look out. Duke has hit the floor running with four freshmen in the starting lineup. They are ranked No. 3 in the country at 7-1, and come in on my list at number four. This team has a real chance to move up on my rankings soon, but I think that all depends on how well the bench plays the rest of the year. RJ Barrett paces the scoring with 23 a game, adding six rebounds and four assists a night. Human highlight reel, Zion Williamson scores 21 a night, grabbing nine rebounds. With this type of one-two punch, the reserves wouldn’t have to do much, but they have to do something. Any scoring production off the bench makes the Blue Devils that
more dangerous. Head coach Mike Krzyzewski should think about moving freshman Cameron Reddish to the bench to help with that. He’s currently averaging 16.3 points a game. His scoring is not needed in the starting line-up with the presence of Barrett, Williamson and even Tre Jones. Relegating Reddish to the bench helps the team for the better in my opinion. Last but not least, the University of Nevada Wolfpack. The Wolfpack made it all the way to the Sweet 16 last year, and they managed to bring back every major player from their roster. That’s scary for young teams like Duke, as they have already struggled against experienced teams like Gonzaga. Nevada is getting respect in the polls, too; they are rated No. 6 in the country with an 8-0 record. This Nevada team essentially has one shot at the title. Every player in the starting line-up is a senior, including leading scorer Caleb Martin (20 ppg). Senior Jordan Caroline is averaging a double-double with 18.5 points and 10 rebounds. Having talented seniors like this brings major trouble to the rest of the teams. Head coach Eric Musselman has created a great team in a short time; mostly due to his expertise in the transfer market. Every member of Nevada’s starting line-up is a transfer, but don’t be surprised if the Wolfpack makes it all the way to the Final Four this year.
By Brendan Reidy
Isaac Johnson lead Western. Webster is leading the team in points with 17 per contest, and also leads the team in assists with 28 on the year. Johnson is right up there with Webster. He is currently second on the team with 15 per game. The two have been steady all year, and the team relies on their scoring prowess to come away victorious. However, when one fails to produce their averages, they have freshman Ben Pyle to come pick up the slack, also known as the former Mr. Basketball of Kansas. Pyle is coming off one of his best games of his young and promising Leatherneck career. He notched his first career double-double, and helped lead Western Illinois to their first road win since Feb. 8, 2017. These three players will be the key for the Leathernecks if they want to extend their winning streak against Stetson. For the Hatters, their season did not start the way they would have hoped. They
played against and lost to National Powerhouse, and arguable the nation’s best player in Zion Williamson, and have not seemed to recover. Well it doesn’t get easier for the Hatters because Leathernecks have a Williamson of their own. All jokes aside, they will have a tall task in front of them. If they want to defeat the red-hot Leathernecks, they will have to lean on their leading scorer Abayomi Iyiola. He has been the leader for his team, and when he struggles the team does not have another viable option to pick up the slack. The Leathernecks should be able to come away with a victory, and extend their win streak to three. Western has struggled on the road the past two seasons, but this is the dawn of a new era. Webster and company want to create something special in Macomb, and it all starts by winning these non-conference games. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m. on ESPN+
Basketball tries for three straight wins courier staff
FILE PHOTO
Kobe Webster dribbles the ball down court inside western Hall.
MACOMB, Ill. — The Western Illinois University Men’s basketball team (4-4) will be traveling to Florida to take on the Stetson Hatters (1-8). These two teams have started the season in two completely different ways. The Leathernecks have played pretty well through their nonconference schedule, despite it being very difficult. The Hatters, on the other hand, have struggled immensely. They, too, have played a difficult schedule, but have been able to come out with the victories needed before conference play starts up. These two programs will face off tonight at 6 p.m. The Leathernecks are riding a two-game winning streak going into their matchup after defeating Southern Illinois Universityedwardsville and Southeastern Missouri University last week. Sophomores Kobe Webster and
Football ends with seven MVFC honors By Taylor Jordan courier staff
Clint Ratkovich runs the ball for more yards in a home game at Hanson Field.
BECCA LANGYS/PHOTO EDITOR
ST. LOUIS — The Missouri Valley Football Conference announced it’s 2018 AllMVFC Teams on Nov. 26, and Western Illinois landed seven players on the postseason lists. First team recognition was awarded to Clint Ratkovich, Khalen Saunders and Pete Swenson while Isaiah LeSure, Quentin Moon, Justin Fitzpatrick and Steven McShane represented the Leathernecks as secondteam selections. The three first-team honorees for the Leathernecks are Ratkovich, Saunders and Swenson. Redshirt sophomore running back Ratkovich, from Crete, Ill., was on the 2017 MVFC All-Newcomer Team. While being team captain this season, he started in nine games. Ratkovich is fourth on the team in rushing yards and second in receiving yards (616) with three touchdowns. Ranked 10th in the Valley in receiving yards per game. Best games included
a 52-yard touchdown reception at Missouri State, and a 52-yard reception versus Indiana State. Ratkovich racked up a season-high 134 all-purpose yards at South Dakota. Senior defensive lineman Saunders, from St. Louis, was placed on the 2017 First Team All-MVFC, along with the 2017 Phil Steele Third Team All-American and a 2018 Buck Buchanan Award finalist. As a three-year starter, Saunders is third on the team in tackles (72), second and sixth in the MVFC in sacks (6.5) and tied as the team leader in quarterback hurries (5). Saunders added 13.0 TFLs for 57 yards lost (ranks fifth in the Valley) along with a career-high of 11 tackles versus NDSU. He also received a touchdown on his first career reception versus Youngstown State. Senior linebacker Swenson, from Mason City, Iowa made it onto the 2018 Buck Buchanan Award watch list.
Football page 6
Necks come out on top in a nail-biter By Michael Harms courier staff MACOMB, Ill. — The Western Illinois University women’s basketball team took on Austin Peay over the weekend to close out their two-game home stretch. The Leathernecks came out on top 77-72 and now have a 3-5 record. The game started off strong for Austin Peay as Brianah Ferby nailed a three-point attempt to set the tone. The Leathernecks looked sluggish out of the gate with three straight turnovers and poor defensive play. The Governors took advantage early and went on a run. They finished the first quarter with 22 points to Western’s nine. Ferby continued to dominate early in the game with 11 points in the first quarter and nine of those from beyond the arc. During the second quarter, head coach JD Gravina motivated his team to work a little harder on the defensive side of the ball. They forced turnovers and closed out well annoying the outside shooters for Austin Peay that had been so effective so far. Then the shooting improved for the Leathernecks. First,
Olivia Kauffman hit a three, then Annabel Greattinger hit an outside shot, then Grace Gilmore made one too and before you know it, the Leathernecks ended the half on a 24-5 run and took the lead 37-35 before half. Both teams knew they had to make adjustments at halftime to seal the deal. While the Governors were focused on containing the Purple and Gold and slowing down their pace, Gravina wanted more active hands on defense and also for the Leathernecks to keep forcing Austin Peay to take poor shots. The third quarter was tooth and nail throughout with neither team giving up anything easy. With two lead changes and multiple ties Peay spent the first few minutes in the lead. Then back-to-back layups from Kauffman allowed Western to sneak ahead 50-48. After a media timeout Western hit back-to-back threes from Kaufman and Taylor Higginbotham to stretch the lead out to eight.
Basketball page 6
Olivia Kauffman eyes the hoop for a shot at a home game inside Western Hall.
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