06.20.2019 by Vidette Online

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SPORTS 8

RAVE SET TO START MINOR LEAGUE CAREER, MILLER THRIVES AS AN ALL-STAR

VIEWPOINT 4

EDITORIAL: THROW AWAY YOUR OLD IDEA OF RECYCLING VIEWPOINT 4

NEWS 5

UPTOWN MURAL FUTURE STILL OUT OF FOCUS THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

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BARLAS: WHAT RBA’S RENOVATION TRULY MEANS Vol. 131/ No. 02

REDBIRD ARENA SE ATING ENH A NCEMEN T PROJECT

‘It’s a big step forward’ AD Larry Lyons says $6.2 million project to create more ‘intimate seating space’ for fans is on schedule STORY BY JONATHAN BARLAS Editor in Chief | @janveselybarlas

early one month after scrapped stadium seats were spotted outside Redbird Arena’s visitor and media entrances, things seem to be on schedule in Illinois State’s seating enhancement renovation to RBA. Courtesy of ISU Athletics With the entire lower bowl Artist rendering of Redbird Arena’s intimate seating space at the north and northeast tunnel near the arena’s former U and V Sections. The project is exripped from the arena, starting pected to be completed in September 2019. from scratch was the alternative to ISU Athletic Director Larry Lyons’ Taking into consideration of student-athletes’ original blueprint — all in an effort to create a more comfortroutes to their respective benches, Lyons also plans able and “intimate” seating space for students, fans and visito reserve another student section on the south end tors of the university. of the arena, working directly with ISU’s Student “We were unable to secure replacement seat parts at first and Government Association and Red Alert in an effort we were given a timeline that would take us many months past to create a heightened game-day experience. this year. This will be the first major renovation to wear and tear “With moving the home bench on the south end, on a licensed building [at ISU]. We’ve seen a good 30 years with usually you prefer your student section near the the lower bowl, so it was time.” visitors bench. The primary student section will be The Redbird Arena Seating Enhancement Project is an on the north end with the band’s [stage] on that upgrade to the current seating of Redbird Arena’s lower bowl. end as well, the south end will remain a student The original seats to the building’s initial construction were section. We’ve wanted to increase the number of removed to allow for “necessary” revitalization. seats for students in the lower bowl and the best Included in the enhancement will be additional courtside way to do that was to split them up. Everybody was seats, loge seating, wider aisles with handrails, larger seats positive about that. They think it was something and a new numerical system to locate sections, scrapping the to affect the visiting teams on both ends of the Courtesy of ISU Athletics game and I think contributes in creating a better arena’s former letter organization. The new Redbird Arena seating chart. “It’ll definitely be more comfortable,” Lyons said. “America atmosphere.” is not the same size as it used to be. The seats will be wider Declining student attendances is a problem that With this overhaul of product, labor and a deadline corwith more knee room and everything will be pushed closer to plagues most college sports today. Although Lyons and comresponding to Redbird volleyball’s home-opener Sept. 13, fan the floor. From an athletics perspective, the home court will pany make strides to bump attendance rates and ticket sales, intimacy could potentially cause a problem as the corners of be much better since it will be more intimate. This is where he feels that improved seating won’t be cause for its immedithe court are closer than ever before. seating is going and we’re taking advantage of that. We think ate turnaround. “We’re going to have to be very cognizant of player safety everybody is going to enjoy it.” “If we can say the seats [will spike attendance] that would and movement of people around the floor because of its inThe project’s budget is expected to cost around $6.2 milbe great. But it all comes down to how the kids are performtimacy. We’re going to have to restrict that. It’s going to look lion, but Lyons is “pretty confident” the renovation will come ing on the floor. We think the seats will have something to do fuller and the players always look bigger when you’re closer to in well under that number when it is all said and done. with it and we hope students will be energized to be on both the action.” Lyons also foresees the new Redbird Arena fulfilling the sides of the floor. More people in the building augments betOther internal changes include a shift of both home and needs of not only student-athletes and fans, but campus orgater atmosphere.” visitors bench, honing in on the conventionality of player nizations, groups and events. In Lyons and the athletic department’s pursuit to drive movement to and from the court. “Modernizing the lower bowl will definitely impact [ISU] attendance up by allowing more comfortable seating, moving “We’re going to be moving our home bench to the south athletes but it will also impact other user groups on campus the primary student section to the north end of the arena only end. The home team and visiting team come out of opposite and in the community such as IHSA state basketball tournahelps their cause. tunnels at the beginning of the game, which is great for the ments, Gamma Phi Circus, etc. Commencement is very im“[The ticket office] has really paid close attention this past handshake but it’s more convenient to have teams come out portant in this regard as well and I just think it’s a plus for the CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 adjacent to their bench.” university in total because of the many uses for the building.”

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ISU LGBTQA Alumni Network to walk in Chicago Pride Parade ANDIE BERNHARDT News Reporter | @ndieb13

honor of the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. “With this being the 50th anniIllinois State University’s versary of Stonewall, we have to LGBTQA Alumni Network invites all constantly remember that the first Redbirds to walk with them in the Pride was a riot that resulted from annual Chicago Pride Parade taking LGBTQ trail blazers resisting violence at the hands of police officers,” place on Sunday, June 30 at noon. Patterson said. Members of “With this being the 50th I S U ’ s Pride ISU will L G B T Q A also be joining anniversary of Stonewall, we Alumni Netthe festivities in order to support have to constantly remember work will also holding an and promote that the first Pride was a riot be Alumni Recepequal rights for LGBTQ people. that resulted from LGBTQ+ tion from 2-4 p.m. on June “ P r i d e trail blazers resisting 29. The recepparades have tion will take always been violence at the hands of place at the about commupolice officers.” ISU Chicago nity at their Emily Patterson, president of Pride at office. hearts, so for ISU Both events the LGBTQA are free to the Alumni Network to get a spot in the parade and public, but registration is highly invite Pride and current students to suggested and should be submitwalk with our alumni is really amaz- ted by Friday. Registration can be ing,” said president of Pride at ISU completed online or by calling the Alumni Engagement Chicago Office. Emily Patterson. Attendees will be able to meet The LGBTQA movement has grown over the past years, but there with current students and alumni. is further to go, Patterson said. Vio- The gathering location for the lence toward trans women is still parade is not yet determined and is prevalent. Conversion therapy, the to be announced. “The visibility of Pride parades practice of changing one’s sexual orientation through psychology helps us continue to bring visibility or spiritual methods, is still done to the LGBTQ community and is a time to celebrate all of the victories across America, Patterson said. “Trans women of color have a life we’ve had, while remembering all of expectancy of 30-35 years old due to the barriers we still need to break high murder and poverty rates,” Pat- down,” Patterson said. terson said. “Conversion therapy for ANDIE BERNHARDT is a News minors is only illegal in 18 states.” The ISU LGBTQA Alumni Net- Reporter for the Vidette. She can work will be walking in celebration be reached at anbernh@ilstu.edu. of Chicago Pride Weekend and in Follow her on Twitter at @ndieb13.

REDBIRD ARENA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

year and 60% of our students enter through the north door. It’ll be much more convenient for students to come in and out of the building towards the primary student section.” As the new Redbird Arena is still months away from completion, Lyons hopes that its progress ultimately pays off in the long run. “We’re looking at this as more of a package to enhance these things,

David Davis Mansion welcomes summer with annual garden walk KOURTNEY CUNNINGHAM Features Reporter | @kourtcunningham

a l l i n g all gardeners and aspiring gardeners! The David Davis Mansion will be hosting this year’s Glorious Garden Walk titled, “Welcome Summer.”

Attendees will be able to take in all the beautiful plants and flowers the town has to offer at the walk’s nine stops throughout the Bloomington area. The event will begin at 1 p.m. Friday starting with a driving tour located at the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site. Tickets will be exchanged for a garden resource book, event coupon and a map showing the nine locations with 12 beautiful, private-owned gardens. Tickets on the day of the event will be $20 for adults and $10 for children aged 1-17. Advance tickets can be bought for $18 for adults and $10 for children at the David Davis Mansion website. The event will proceed rain or shine, and tickets will not be refunded. All proceeds benefit the David Davis Mansion historic garden and educational programs. “Special features include barn quilt squares, vendors selling garden products and plants, complimentary tea and refreshments,” Illinois Country Living Magazine reports. The David Davis Mansion will have a variety of gardens this year including those with naturalized settings, hardscaped areas designed to perfection, lake views, mosaic artwork and more. KOURTNEY CUNNINGHAM is a Features Reporter for the Vidette. She can be reached at klcunn1@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @kourtcunningham.

hoping that fan engagement is better. If fan engagement is better, that’ll hype up the players and if the players play well, that’ll hype up the fans. It’s kind of a chicken and the egg deal. We’re hoping it will be a really great home court and that everyone will enjoy the new Redbird Arena.” JONATHAN BARLAS is Editor in Chief of The Vidette. He can be reached at jgbarla@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @janveselybarlas.

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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Rare San Clemente Island Goats come to Miller Park Zoo

Freshman enrollment on track for record high GRACE BARBIC News Editor | @gracebarbic

wo rare breed goats gave birth to four kids at Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington. The zoo is home to 12 of the rare San Clemente Island Goats. There are only 700 of these goats left in the world, and Miller Park Zoo was the first Illinois Zoo to have the breed. The goats take on a deer-like appearance and are known for their mostly red or tan coat color with black markings. Each goat's markings are unique. These goats are considered a critically endangered heritage breed on the Conservation Priority List by the Livestock Conservancy. The goats are on exhibit in the Children’s Zoo. Miller Park Zoo is at 1020 S. Morris Ave. It is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $4.95 for youth, $6.95 for adults and children under 2 get in free. PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALI RASPER | Photo Editor | @alirasper4

Redbirds Rising Campaign flies past goal Surpasses $150 million 13 months ahead of schedule

Illinois State University has surpassed the fundraising goal of $150 million 13 months ahead of schedule. Redbirds Rising: The Campaign for Illinois State began in July 2013 and was publicly announced in September 2017. Most of the donations, over $100 million, were donated by alumni. The remaining donations came from corporations and friends of the university. Redbirds Rising is the most ambitious donor campaign of the university to date, according to the campaign’s case statement. The campaign has had several accomplishments, including creating 23,000 new donors for the university. The campaign has received 25 gifts of $1 million or more, and over 500 gifts over $25,000. The money from the campaign will support increased support of students, such as scholarships, as well as developing and innovating new ways of learning. Over $60 million of the funds will directly support student scholarships. The campaign will continue until its end date of June 30, 2020. Complied by ELIZABETH SEILS News Editor | @SeilsElizabeth

Successful fund drive at a glance  Began in July 2013 and publicly launched in September 2017  Over 51,000 donors, including 23,000 firsttime donors to the University  25 visionary gifts and commitments of $1 million or more 571 gifts and commitments in excess of $25,000  Annual giving has totaled $39 million  Over 29,000 Redbird alumni have contributed $106 million  $61.8 million earmarked to directly benefit student scholarships Courtesy of Illinois State News

“This is a remarkable achievement, one made possible by alumni and friends who believe in the quality of the ISU experience and have demonstrated their confidence in our direction through their investment in the university. Our students, faculty and staff are better positioned now than ever before in the University’s history to innovate and pursue leadership.” Larry Dietz, ISU President

Freshman enrollment at Illinois State University is at an all-time high. In the eight years that President Larry Dietz has been with ISU, this is the first time that the university has had to adhere to the May 1 application deadline because “we simply had more students than we felt we could accommodate,” Dietz said in an interview on WGLT’s Sound Ideas. May 1 is the deadline that most universities across the nation follow, it has even become known as “decision day.” In the past the university has continued to accept applications following the deadline, but due to the high numbers of applications and enrollment deposits the university has received thus far, they had to close applications. Although the university will not know exact numbers until the new school year begins, Dietz told WGLT that they are nearing the 4,100 mark as compared to last year’s nearly 3,700 freshman class. As a result of these growing numbers, some students have been placed on waiting lists. The university had to consider housing, other facilities, academic programs and balancing out the new and continuing enrollment numbers when making the decision to close the applications. “We want to ensure that all students are served well,” Director of Media Relations Eric Jome told The Vidette. Despite the growing incoming class, the overall number for enrollment is estimated to remain in the 20,000 ballpark. Eric Jome Dietz also told WGLT that he believes this is part of the expected stability in the coming years. With the recent approval of the state budget, increased funds that the university will receive and new programs, like the cybersecurity program, staying in-state will continue to be more of an appeal for prospective students. “People have had their doubts about higher education in Illinois,” Jome said. “Some out-of-state schools even started recruiting in Illinois ... but I think the return to economic and budget stability is improving confidence.” Jome advised that the university does not want to get ahead of themselves since the numbers will not be definite until ten days after the first day of classes, but he believes the university is in “pretty good shape.” “We are very happy to see increased interest in the university,” Jome said. “We are on track for a stong freshman class and I think that is a testament to the strength of the institution.” GRACE BARBIC is the News Editor for The Vidette. She can be contacted at mgbarbi@ilstu. edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ gracebarbic.

Viewpoint

PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE

VIDETTE EDITORIAL

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Throw away your old view of recycling

here is no shortage of clunky wooden desks and old mattresses that litter the curbsides of the Illinois State University Campus. As the semester drew to an end, some 20,000 students packed up their lives and headed back to their hometowns for the summer, leaving the barren campus with nothing but traces of forgotten or useless belongings. Like children at play making a mess that someone else would have to pick up. It’s hard to miss now, but this problem is one that doesn’t just occur every May or even just on this campus. It’s happening everywhere and every day as people lack the knowledge or interest to understand that there is a right and wrong way to recycle. You may think that you are “doing your part” to help the damaged, beaten and abused Earth, but in reality you may be doing more harm than good. Andrew Bennett, ISU Recycling Coordinator, said it best. “There’s the recycling wannabes that think that everything can be recycled, things like plastic

hangers or plastic bags. That’s the big thing that curbside (recycling) does not want,” Bennett said in an interview with WGLT. But it’s not just curbside recycling. For years student housing has been left to their own devices as no recycling services have been offered. This could be a main contributor to the biggest issue at hand – contamination. Let’s break it down. Similar to just about everything in life, recycling is first and foremost a business. There is time, money and resources invested in it which are being

worn thin by ignorant recyclers. Midwest Fiber Recycling is where Bloomington-Normal’s recyclables, along with about 1 million other commercial and residential customers throughout Illinois, end up. When “recyclables” are sent to Midwest Fiber, they first go through a machine that sorts through them. Many of these items end up being pulled by workers that physically sort through them. China even stopped accepting plastics from the U.S. because of contamination. When customers are too lazy to

clean out their containers or are just so careless that they think everything can be recycled, it costs the industry money and the Earth its beauty. WGLT also spoke with Bloomington Public Works Director Jim Karch. “Much of the material in your home, about 70 percent of what you take in can be recycled,” Karch told WGLT. “There really are a lot of opportunities if people are willing to put in that time to try and reduce the materials that go to the landfill.” As the Town of Normal nears the August 2019 implementation of the ordinance to require apartments and other multifamily residences to provide recycling services, let’s remember that students were one of the biggest advocates for this action. We as students have been heard. And with our voice comes responsibility, acting on and leading the change we initiated. The desire to recycle is there, now there needs to be a motivation to do it right. For yourself, for the community and for the beautiful place that you are so privileged to call home.

Editorial Cartoon by Flynn Geraghty | Vidette Art Director

EDITORIAL POLICY Editorial written by GRACE BARBIC, a member of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Editorial policy is determined by the student editor, and views expressed in editorials are those of the majority of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Columns that carry bylines are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Vidette or the University.

What does Redbird Arena’s renovation mean for students?

MY VIEW JON BARLAS | Editor in Chief

edbird Arena is a fixture in Illinois State University’s community, and as a Redbird basketball fan, the renovated seating seems to be something worth the excitement. ISU’s Athletic Director Larry Lyons was more than thrilled with the progress Redbird Arena has made in its modernization of the lower bowl. Not only do fans, students and student-athletes benefit from the physical effect of improved seating, it appears that this sort of renovation came at just the right time. On the cusp of following its NCAA

Tournament bid last season, Redbird volleyball fans will be the first to experience the allure of the arena’s novelty. Looking to attract more people to its fandom, volleyball is in a great position right now to do so, with help from both its sucess and new and improved home court. This revitalization also comes at a great time for men’s basketball as the team recovers from the ashes of last year’s disappointing season. Although Lyons says the renovation will be beneficial for more than just sporting events – which it will be – the new Redbird Arena’s impact will more than likely take shape in the form of men’s basketball season tickets. Picture this, a modernized Redbird Arena donning sections without confusing double letters, knee-pinching seats and nowhere to put your drink. ISU’s athletic department is installing cupholders in these new lower bowl seats ... come on, that’s an extra step above expectations. Complementing these bells and whistles – wider seats, new suites and

the featured intimacy of stands on the floor – another student section is set to be built on the opposite entrance of the one that already stands. As far as the new arena’s impact, the athletic department inadvertently is telling students they care about their experience at sporting events, so much so they’re willing to spend $6.2 million on something this lucrative. However, this is where the students come into play once again. In a previous column, I suggested that the declining attendance at sporting events, more specifically men’s basketball, is caused by the fact that student tickets are not free – giving broke, college kids more of a reason to not spend their money to see a struggling basketball team. That could change, though. Maybe this $6.2 million atmosphere augment is rooted in the fact that 50 students sat in the student section per night last season. That’s neither here nor there now, but as far as driving up attendance rates, I think RBA’s revitalization only

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

VIDETTE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLI-

Legal marijuana’s ripple effect from past economic turmoil I would like to see the US Congress pass a new program into law which would replace the former “Aid To Families With Dependent Children” program which was passed under FDR in 1935 and abolished in 1996. Ever since its abolition, there has been a large increase in the number of people (especially children) living in “extreme poverty” (meaning living on less than two dollars per day) and “deep poverty” (meaning at a level half of the official poverty line). It could be paid for by adopting a “National Wealth Tax” of 14.25% on all

solves part of the problem. Yes, it will look nice. $6.2 million nice. That could be comparable to the construction of the Bone Student Center this past year. If you have ever been inside the newest wing of the Bone Center, it feels like you’re walking into NASA’s headquarters – then seeing that you’ve apparently travelled back in time after walking 30 feet to the other side of the building. This sort of design mishap could affect Redbird Arena as well if it happens. Its effect on students, fans, visitors and student-athletes will solely be about how the university mixes its old charm with a fresh coat of paint. Despite possibilities, I’m excited for its completion; I’ve been to dozens of men’s basketball games sitting laptopclad on press row during my time as sports editor. But, experiencing it as a fan in this new intimate seating arrangement could be what I, and diehard Redbird fans, are looking for. Let’s hope this step truly is ‘big’ for students to buy tickets and attend.

individuals with a net-worth of $10 million and higher which is exactly what Donald Trump proposed in 1999 before he became what I have always believed to be a “FAKEconservative.” In return for receiving this assistance, all recipients would be responsible for doing some type of volunteer work and/or jobtraining since one thing that both Republicans and Democrats do agree upon is that no one should ever get “something for nothing.”

Stew Epstein, Rochester, New York

The Vidette welcomes letters to the editor, provided they are no longer than 250 words and are typed and double-spaced. Letters that exceed the 250-word limit can be published at the editor’s discretion,but shorter letters take precedence. Letters containing name calling and insults will not be published. Letters must be signed and contain the major or official title of the writer, the year in school if presently enrolled, address and a daytime telephone number for verification. Letters without phone numbers will not be considered for publication. Names may be withheld upon request, but only after approval by the editor. Letters are subject to editing for style and space at the editor’s discretion. Letters sent via e-mail to: vidette@ilstu.edu are accepted, provided they include a telephone number for verification.

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EDITORIAL BOARD JONATHAN BARLAS Editor-in-Chief @janveselybarlas GRACE BARBIC News Editor | @gracebarbic ANDREW DOUGHERTY Columnist | @addough

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Jennifer Haiden | Photo Editor

The Uptown Mural, located at 104 E. Beaufort St. The building also houses an unoccupied storefront and Windy City Wieners. The project will also affect 108 E. Beaufort St, which houses Slingshot Cowork.

Future of Uptown Mural still unknown

Settlement talks continue between artists and Town of Normal over where to move the piece ELIZABETH SEILS News Editor | @SeilsElizabeth

h i l e settlement talks continue, the fate of the Uptown Mural is still unclear. Earlier this month, United States Senior District Judge Joe Billy McDade denied a temporary restraining order filed by the artists to prevent the demolition or reconstruction of the mural. At that time he also ordered a settlement conference before Judge Jonathan Hawley to be held Wednesday. According to the attorney for the 13 artists William McGrath, the settlment conference has been rescheduled for July 27. The mural, which was painted by 13 artists in 2011, should be protected under the Visual Artists Rights Act, according to the suit. The mural has been a popular photo spot for visitors and residents. Several posts have been made on Instagram under the hashtag “#savethemural.” “It is an emblem of community spirit and an indication

of the personality of the town. It has for years been a place where people would go to create memories,” McGrath said. “It adds zest to the community. It is the result of the creativity of many local artists, and is a point of civic pride.” The mural was made with help from The Pod, a gift store that sold local art and was previously located at 104 E. Beaufort. The former owner of The Pod is one of the plaintiffs of the suit. Since the initial announcement to tear down the mural as a part of the Trail East project, the Town of Normal has since agreed to move the mural. Now the suit will determine where it will be moved and which party will pay the $100,000 it will cost to move it. McGrath said his clients want to make sure the mural will not be placed in storage. “If for some reason the mural is destroyed, damaged or mutilated, my clients will seek compensation for their rights,” McGrath said. McGrath said he cannot currently discuss where the artist would like the mural to ideally be placed, and he does not know

what the outcome of the settlement talks will be. This is not the first time the Trail East project has been met with resistance. A petition was created in November that has gathered almost 4,000 signatures. The petition not only protests the destruction of the mural, but also the cost of the project. “Sign this to show your support in keeping the mural and not spending nearly $30 million on a project that could potentially hurt our local economy,” the petition states. The Town of Normal has promised to give notice a week in advance to moving or tearing down the mural. The demolition of the building that the mural rests on is a part of the Trail East project. The $30 million project will work with Bush Development of Iowa to create business and office space. ELIZABETH SEILS is News Editor for The Vidette. She can be reached at elseils@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @ SeilsElizabeth.

PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE

Features

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

“As You Like It” will open at 7:30 p.m. on June 27. Tickets are available online at illinoisshakes. com. Photo Courtesy of Illinois Shakespeare Festival

Illinois Shakespeare Fest, taking a spin on classics Bloomington-Normal ‘gem’ is back celebrating Bard and theatre for their 42nd year ANDREA RICKER Features Editor | @ricker_andrea

he Illinois Shakespeare Festival is back for their 42nd season. The festival lasts for about six weeks and includes three full length productions, all of which are adaptations. The first production is “As You Like It.” The Shakespeare comedy will be performed in the Ewing Manor outdoor theater. Opening night for the show is at 7:30 on June 27. The play also has shows at 8 p.m. June 28 and June 29. “Pride and Prejudice” will open the following week. This show is their Shakespeare adjacent show for the season, giving an adaptation to the classic Jane Austen story. Opening night is at 8 p.m. July 5 and will also be in Ewing Theatre. There will also be performances throughout the months of July and August. “I think what is most shocking to people who have never been is that the Ewing Cultural Center is so beautiful and the atmosphere of experiencing live theatre and the quality of theater we offer,” Director of Marketing and Operations Ross Egan said.

“We have Tickets people who for the show come all over start at $20 the world to and can be experience the purchased at productions illinoisshakes. that we do.” com or at the Finally, box office of the festival the show. will present Student a moderntickets are also day twist on available for “Caesar.” The the festival’s show is “media events. If you focused.” Audiarrive one Photo courtesy of Illinois Shakespeare Festival ence members hour before The festival will take place in Ewing Manor’s outdoor theater. showtime and will be able to interact with present any their phone and follow social media as the current student ID you will receive the best play goes on. seat they have available for $15. The student “Caesar” will be performed in the ISU ID can be from any college, high school or Center for Performing Arts Theatre. Egan middle school. The school does not have to be adds that the show will be especially good in the area to receive the discount. for audiences who might feel intimidated by “The whole night, from the second you park Shakespeare. Opening night is at 8 p.m. on your car and walk in from when you leave, is July 12. Performances will continue throughjust a unique experience that I think is very out July and August. difficult to find in central Illinois,” Egan said. Those interested in a more detailed calen“The amount of people who have never dar of performances, visit illinoisshakes.com. been to the Shakespeare Festival and have

Uptown hosts Make Music Normal Fest

Get ready for free concerts on the Quad Enjoy some free music on the Illinois State University Quad, right in front of Cook Hall. The concerts will take place at 7 p.m. every Monday in July.

KOURTNEY CUNNINGHAM Features Reporter | @kourtcunningham

If there’s one sure way to bring a group of people together, it’s with music, and the Town of Normal plans to showcase how music is an everyday part of life. The Make Music Normal festival is a twoday event taking place in Uptown Normal on Friday from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday from noon-10 p.m. Over 70 musicians and performers from a variety of genres will be participating, emphasizing the diversity in music and a chance for everyone to hear something they like. The festival offers experiences for participants of any age and skill level to make music as well as watching the lineup of music acts throughout the day. “The goal remains the same: bringing in a broad variety of local and non-local musicians to entertain, while also leaving plenty of spaces for attendees to play themselves,” The Pantagraph reports. Chicago Dance Crash is a fusion company of hip-hop and contemporary dance who will be bringing two acts to the festival, “History of Hip-Hop,” and an “All Styles Battle.”

never been to Ewing Manor. If you’ve never stepped on those grounds, you are in for quite a surprise from something you probably drive past multiple times a week.” This season’s sponsor is the Epiphany Farms Hospitality Group. The group is offering dinner and show packages, which include everything for two people with prices starting at $100. The package does not include alcohol. “The festival has been a part of this community for 42 years,” Egan said. “It’s important to support local art. It’s a level of theater that is very important for the community.” The festival brings a different perspective to these old, classic works. Egan adds that the Shakespeare Festival is a special gem to Illinois and the community. Other events included in the festival are the Theatre for Young Audiences show, titled “Who Stole Cleopatra?” There will also be Ewing Theatre Backstage Tours, Talkback and Ice Cream Socials, Illinois Art Station workshops and a Bard and Bash Cabaret. “Live theater is so much different than watching a TV show,” Egan said. “It’s magical when it’s happening where you could reach out and touch it. I think it’s important that people get exposure to that.”

July 1 Appalatin The summer concerts will begin with Appalatin. The band will bring a mix of Appalachian folk and high-energy Latin music.

July 8 Jodi Beach Trio Jennifer Haiden | Photo Editor

Making Music Normal festival will be held in Uptown Circle on Friday and Saturday.

“I like the idea that you can find something different around every corner at the festival,” Chicago Dance Crash artistic director Jessica Deahr said. Music festivals are typically an adult experience but Beth Whisman, the town’s cultural arts manager says Make Music Normal continues to be family friendly. In addition to music, the free festival will feature vendors from nearby restaurants and several food trucks. This is Make Music Normal’s sixth annual event and the first to run over 2 days.

The Jodi Beach Trio will invite the audience to enjoy a sentimental journey through music.

July 15 Good Morning Bedlam Good Morning Bedlam will perform their series debut. The band gives a twist on what would typically be expected of folk music.

July 22 Evening of Contemporary Jazz Illinois State Director of Instrumental Jazz Studies Tom Marko will lead an evening of contemporary jazz. You’ll be able to enjoy jazz with Marko and the Inner Light under the night sky.

Vidette Archieve

July 29 Singing Under the Stars The final performance will be Singing Under the Stars. ISU faculty and guests will sing their favorite songs from operatic and Broadway stages.

What You Need to Know Bring lawn chairs and blankets to sit on to enjoy the performance. In case of rain, the performances will be moved to the Center for Performing Arts. Not able to make it to a concert? No problem, you can listen to the all the concerts at WGLT, WBNQ and WJBC.

COMPILED BY ANDREA RICKER | Features Editor | @ricker_andrea

THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 7

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

LEWALLEN Continued from page 8

ISU track and field trio named All-Americans BLAINE LEWALLEN Sports Editor | @blainelew3

The success of Illinois State athletics for the 20182019 school year keeps getting better. A trio of Redbird athletes earned All-America honors in their respective events this past week at the NCAA championships. The accolades started off Friday, with Jack Anstey reaching the finals of the 1,500-meter race at the men’s track and field championships in Austin, Texas. Anstey, a junior long-distance runner from Newtown Toowoomba, Australia, finished with a time of 3:42.73. He placed seventh in the event, which earned him First Team All-America honors. “It’s been a long road, with more lows than highs for me but that makes this moment all the sweeter,” Anstey said. “It’s been a crazy journey to get here, and I’m excited for what’s to come in the future.” Two members of the ISU women’s team also reached the finals of the NCAA championships in Austin, and both came away with top-16 finishes and second team

All-America honors after their performances. Sophomore high jumper Kameesha Smith cleared a personal best 1.78 meters (5-10) to finish in a tie for 12th place in the event. “Kameesha competed very well, making several good attempts at 1.81m which would have placed her in the top 8,” Jeff Bovee, ISU Director of Track & Field and Cross Country said. “She is a competitor and thrived on the national stage.” Joining Smith with second team honors was redshirt sophomore discus thrower Sydney Laufenberg. Laufenberg finished 14th overall after tossing a 54.21 meter throw. “Sydney started with a big first throw, which allowed her to be aggressive on her subsequent throws,” Bovee stated. “Although she came up just shy of making the finals, she finished much higher than her pre-championship ranking.” “We have two strong teams returning, so the next challenge for our program is to convert our conference and regional success onto the national stage. Jack, Kameesha and Sydney did that this weekend and we return home proud of their efforts.” Bovee said.

Miller named Texas League All-Star, Player of Week BLAINE LEWALLEN Sports Editor | @blainelew3

Courtesy @sodpoodles Twitter

Former Illinois State shortstop prepares to make a throw for the Amarillo Sod Poodles, the Double-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Miller was recently named an All-Star of the Texas League, and was also named Player of the Week.

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Former Illinois State shortstop Owen Miller seems to have made his mark post-college. The 22-year old Miller was named an All-Star of the Texas League after his superb first half of the season performance with the Amarillo Sod Poodles. Amarillo is the Double-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Miller is currently batting .322 so far this season while leading the Texas League in hits with 88 (second in Double-A). He also holds a .378 on-base percentage with seven home runs, 39 runs batted in, and a .450 slugging percentage. The Meqoun, Wisconsin native also nabbed Player of the Week honors in the Texas League after batting .565 over six games. He also had a double, home run and four RBI’s. This is not the first accolade Miller has received since signing with the Padres last June. He was named a Mid-Season All-Star with the shortseason Tri-City Dust Devils last summer after he slashed .335/.395/.440 with two home runs and 20 RBIs in 49 games played. Miller is currently rated as the Padres’ 23rd ranked prospect, according to milb.com. The 6-foot shortstop was drafted in the third round last summer by the Padres after a breakout junior season with the Redbirds where he slashed .384/.433/.537 en route to being named a Missouri Valley Conference AllConference First Team selection.

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starts). The 6-3 Torres averaged 17.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.1 assists and 1.7 steals at Missouri State University-West Plaines in the 2017-18 season as a sophomore. His freshman season he averaged 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game. Torres was recently granted a waiver by the NCAA to play immediately this season. Another potential option would be signee Antonio Reeves, a 6-4 guard out of Simeon High School in Chicago. Reeves was known to play multiple positions in high school, averaging 21.7 points, six rebounds and three assists per game. While Reeves seems to be more of a shooting threat from the perimeter, can he develop into a point guard if need be? A plus for Muller and his team is that they will be taking a trip to Italy over the summer, which gives players like Copeland and Horne the chance to develop a little more as point guards. The team will play games and hold practices there. This also allows newcomers like Torres and Reeves to get accustomed to Muller’s system and possibly develop into the needed point guard. It will be important for guys like Reeves and Horne to learn from veterans like Copeland and Torres as well. So, in what is likely Muller’s most important offseason as a head coach, will the Redbirds take a step forward? A big part of that will be the emergence of a point guard. Whether it is a current roster player or an incoming guy, the Redbirds need a true point guard to lead the team. While the Redbirds seem to have some options at the position, developing a guy like that will go a long way in future ISU basketball success. BLAINE LEWALLEN is the Sports Editor for The Vidette. He can be contacted at bmlewal@ilstu. edu. Follow him on Twitter at @ blainelew3 .

Stay on top of ISU Sports with “Redbird Report” podcasts at Videtteonline.com

2018 1st Place

FRI. THURS. WED. TUES. MON.

Courtesy ISU athletics

Illinois State track and field star Jack Anstey (1,500 meter race) competes in an event this past season. Anstey was one of three Redbirds who received All-America honors after their performance at the NCAA championships in Austin, Texas. Kameesha Smith (high jump) and Sydney Laufenberg (discus) were also named All-Americans.

be more of an off guard type player, despite shooting 34.4% from the field (31.7% from three). A major question this offseason will be the emergence of Copeland as a leader of the team. Can he become the point guard that the Redbirds have desperately needed the last couple of seasons? He certainly has the capability, but may be better suited in an off-guard role. Junior transfer Josh Jefferson is another guy who saw limited time in the point guard slot this season, but he is more of a shooting option than a lead guard. Jefferson elected to put his name in the transfer portal at the season’s conclusion, and committed to the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Jefferson will sit out the 2019-20 year before his senior season. Another name to keep an eye on is incoming recruit DJ Horne. Horne, a 6-2 point guard from Raleigh, North Carolina, is a tough, gritty playmaking lead guard. He seems to have that Paris Lee-esque personality, a guy who wills his team to win. But, can a guy like Horne step in right away and follow in Lee’s footsteps as a starting freshman point guard in the MVC? Time will tell. Another point guard on the ISU roster is Bloomington High School graduate Lijah Donnelly. Donnelly, a walk-on from Illinois-Springfield, will join the team after sitting out last season due to transfer rules. Donnelly has two years of eligibility remaining, but it would be a surprise if he was more than just a role player. Muller indicated that he had plans to search for another point guard or two to add this offseason in either the junior college or high school market, and has done so since the season’s end. Former Wichita State point guard and junior college All-American Ricky Torres signed with the Redbirds in mid-May. Torres was third on the team in assists last year with the Shockers after playing in all 37 games (10

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PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2019

Point guard emergence key to ISU basketball turnaround

MY VIEW BLAINE LEWALLEN | Sports Editor

Courtesy ISU athletics

Former Illinois State center fielder John Rave awaits a pitch during a game earlier in his Redbird career. Rave was drafted in the fifth round of the 2019 Major League Baseball first-year player draft by the Kansas City Royals. Since his selection, Rave signed a deal with the Royals and has begun play with their rookie-class affiliate, the Burlington Royals.

Rave ready to work

Former ISU center fielder begins work with KC Royals organization and chase my dream. I know it’s not always easy and I appreciate that.” Rave also credits Holm for instilling confidence in him and believing he could reach this point. eing a professional athlete is what every “Coach Holm was great,” Rave said. “He has young sports lover dreams of. Watchbeen there himself and encouraged me to sucing other pro players on television or in ceed. He was always confident in me and I felt the stands, mimicking their every move. Unforthat. His approach to the game helped my pertunately, not many of these kids end up fulfilling sonal focus and our team learned how to win. I their dreams of making it to the bigs. am very thankful.” For former Illinois State center fielder John Holm, who played collegiate baseball himself Rave, however, his dreams have become a for Oral Roberts before moving on to the pros, reality. made MLB stints with the San Francisco Giants “It means the world to me,” Rave said. “When and the Minnesota Twins. you wake up and think about being a profesHolm is not the only coach who believes in sional ball player it’s kind of unreal. But I’ve Rave as a pro. Nick Knight, current Central wanted it, worked for it and appreciate the Catholic head baseball coach and former assisopportunity.” tant coach on Rave’s Saints teams when he was This opportunity Rave speaks of is a chance in high school, also believes Rave is poised for that few athletes have. Rave was recently a great future. selected in the fifth round (139th pick) of the “John is one of those players that doesn’t come Major League Baseball first-year player draft by around very often,” Knight said. “The kind of kid the Kansas City Royals after a stellar career with that has a different sound off the bat than others. the Redbirds. “John’s work ethic will lead to success. He’s Rave elected to forgo his senior season at never backed down from any level he’s been ISU, and signed a deal worth $297,500 with challenged with. He just works harder and puts the Royals. more work in until he’s satisfied. The sky is the He has since begun working with the club limit for John and his drive will get him there.” at their spring training facility in Arizona, and While Rave has a great recently joined the Burlington support system behind him, Royals. Burlington is a rookie he realizes that he will need level affiliate of Kansas City to continue to work hard in located in Burlington, North order to reach the top, which Carolina. They are a part of would be one day making it to the Appalachian League. the MLB. “I’m looking forward to “Baseball is a game of learning and adapting to the many phases,” Rave said. pro game,” Rave said. “I know “I hope to improve in all I need to soak in as much levels. They talk about instruction as I can get from being a five-tool player but the coaches. I understand the there are more tools I need work that this takes and I’m to understand.” willing to do that.” “The mental part, the This season in the leadconditioning part and the off spot for head coach Steve recovery part are all off Holm and company, Rave had the field skills that are also a solid season for the Redbirds. very important. I appreciHe slashed .297/.377/.502 ate guys who work hard and while hitting 12 home runs and play smart, and that’s what driving in 48. I want to give the Royals The Bloomington, Illinois organization.” native also had 12 stolen bases, Rave’s season with Burand was named a First Team lington began Tuesday, All-Defense selection in the “Officially a part of the Kansas City Royals Organization! Thank where his Royals team travMissouri Valley Conference eled to Bristol, Virginia, to for the third straight season. you to every single person who has helped me along the way. take on the Bristol Pirates. His play earned him MVC All Thank you especially to my family, coaches, @clrockscorp, In his first ever profesConference First Team honors. sional action, Rave went 4-5 Rave’s breakout season came teammates and friends! Excited to from the leadoff spot with his sophomore year, where he Courtesy of start this crazy journey! Let the three runs scored and an slashed .347/.402/.571. He had @john_rave grind begin!” RBI. eight home runs and 49 RBIs BLAINE LEWALLEN Sports Editor | @blainelew3

during that campaign. This was not the first time Rave had been drafted. Out of high school, after hitting .429 with three home runs as a senior at Bloomington Central Catholic High School, Rave was selected in the 35th round by the Boston Red Sox. But, some advice from a Boston scout made Rave’s decision to stay home an easy one. “I really loved the fact that I could have my family see me play,” Rave said. “The Bloomington-Normal community was so supportive, it helped me realize what a ‘hometown’ kid means to a community.” “I also had great advice from the area scout from the Red Sox. He said, ‘Go where you will play right away.’ I think that was also a very important part of my development. I started on day one (at ISU), so I learned the college game pretty quickly.” From the start, Rave led the Redbird offense during his freshman season. Rave appeared in all 56 games, starting 53 of them in center field. He tallied a .258/.352/.362 slash line. From there, he only grew. Rave credits numerous people for this growth. “I’ve been very blessed,” Rave said. “I’ve had great coaches going back to little league and all the way through college. My family has always supported me and encouraged me to work hard

o be a good team in any sport, a leader is essential. Someone who steps up, brings the group together, guides his/her teammates to have success. In the game of basketball, the leader is most often the point guard. The point guard is the floor general. The one calling out plays, calling teammates out for being in the wrong place, being vocal. A true point guard was one of the biggest missing pieces for Dan Muller and company this past season. Because of this, one of the biggest focuses for Muller and his staff should be developing a point guard to be a floor general. Think of Illinois State legend Paris Lee for a second. Lee was a starter right off the bat for Muller, eventually becoming a menace defensively and the 2017 Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year. Lee was a major reason that ISU had a historical run during that season, averaging 13.0 ppg, 5.0 apg, and 1.9 spg. Lee is what I would consider a true point guard. He held his guys accountable, played hard and didn’t hold his head down when things were going poorly for him and his team. He was the one that ignited a spark in his team when they needed it the most, and could be relied on in clutch situations to get the job done. That is a leader. The past couple of seasons, the Redbirds have lacked such a fierce leader. The year after Lee graduated, they had a couple players show promise in that regard, but neither really performed as expected. Keyshawn Evans, a junior at the time, hit his stride. He averaged 15.2 ppg on 41% shooting (41.9% from three), nearly a 10 point increase from his sophomore campaign. Even then, though, Evans was more of a catch and shoot type of guard. He was not really the floor general the Redbirds needed. This past season, Evans was primarily a defensive player after averaging a disappointing 7.7 ppg on 33.5% shooting (33.3% from three). Senior transfer Jerron Martin and freshman Elijah Clarance were the only two other guys from a couple seasons ago that saw limited point guard time. Neither one of them were on the roster for the 2018-19 campaign. Clarance had some promise, but decided to turn pro overseas after having a forgetful freshman campaign. Other than these three, junior Zach Copeland was the only guy who ran the offense this past season for the ’Birds. Copeland was decent in his role as a point guard, but again seems to Continued on page 7