07.26

VIDETTE summer

WEDNESDAY, July 26, 2017 Vol. 129/ No. 63

videtteonline

Pedal

to the metal School starts in 26 days

Campus Rec adds outdoor activity center PAGE 2

Summer entertainment reviewed PAGES 5 and 6

Lee inks pro contract PAGE 8

REVIEW

‘Baby Driver’ cruises in to hit the right notes EMA SASIC Editor-in-Chief | @ema_sasic

D

irector Edgar Wright has shown his unique cinematic touch in his previous films. In what’s known as the Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy, which includes “Shaun of the Dead,” “Hot Fuzz” and “The World’s End,” Wright entertains audiences by using common archetypes and film genres and blending in witty dialogue, sound effects that sync up perfectly with the action and lots and lots of explosions.

“Baby Driver” is no different.

In the filmmaker’s latest creation, Baby (yes, B-A-B-Y, as they say in the movie), played by Ansel Elgort, is a sunglasses and music loving young man who walks, talks and breathes to the beat of his iPod(s), including a pink, bedazzled one. “I got different iPods for different days, and moods,” he explains.

Though his name might not seem menacing, he’s one mean getaway driver on the road. Once he starts playing the perfect heist song, there’s nothing he can’t do. However, it’s not the life he wants for himself. After he unknowingly stole crime boss Doc’s (Kevin Spacey) car, he is forced into the heist business until his debt is repaid.

The first time audiences see Baby, they see him in his element: sunglasses on, headphones in and ready to take off in the driver’s seat. With shifting gears, sharp turns and head-banging tunes, he takes Jon Hamm, Eiza González and Jon Bernthal from the bank, which the three just robbed, to their safe haven amid a swarm of police cars, barricades and helicopters trying to stop them. The heart-racing, seat-gripping and maybe a little motion sickness-inducing opening sets the tone for the rest of the film. see BABY page 6

Photograph by NATALIE STUCKSLAGER | Vidette Photo Editor

PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

STAFF LIST 2017-2018 Editor in Chief Ema Sasic News Editors

Kevin Schwaller Stephanie Rodriguez Features Editor

Emily Griffith

Sports Editors

Art Director

Lee Walls

Ad Sales Manager

Jonathon Higgs Ad Production Manager

Michael Marra Evan Morris Nate Head Business Manager Zach Oldenburg Photo Editors

Monica Mendoza Office Manager Natalie Stuckslager Maddillon Kenney Night Editors

Marketing Team Manager

Brigid Ackerman Brittany Olson Haley Varnes Social Media Manager

Business Adviser

Monica Mendoza | Vidette Photo Editor

Madeline Smith

ABOVE: Construction past the rugby fields will soon be a outdoor recreation facility.

LEFT: The Outdoor Activity Center will have a High Ropes Challenge Course.

Photo courtesy ISU Campus Recreation

Maddy Wierus General Manager John Plevka

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New rec center to challenge students CLAIRE WEINZIERL News Reporter | @ClaireWeinzierl

Illinois State University is building a new recreation center on its Gregory Street property for students and faculty to enjoy.

The building project is called the Outdoor Activity Center and will house two activity areas, The Adventure Center and the High Ropes Course. The new center is a part of ISU’s Campus Recreation.

The master plan for the property was completed in February of 2014 and during the summer of 2016, planning and design began for the center and High Ropes Course.

Both facets of the Outdoor Activity Center will be managed by the Campus Recreation Adventure program and will employ ISU students who will be responsible for the daily operations of the center and for the facilitation of team building programs at the high

ropes course.

“The Outdoor Activity Center will be the hub for the Adventure trips, Team Building, and outdoor adventure gear rentals,” Associate Director of Campus Recreation Mike Bastian said.

All ISU students will have the opportunity to utilize the new facility and all it offers. Team building and outdoor adventure gear rentals will be open and available to the community as well.

The Adventure Rental Center will be housed in the 5,500 square foot Adventure Center.

An attached four-bay boat pen will also be featured as well as trailer parking and a covered space for canoes and kayaks. The exterior of the building will have a covered pavilion as a team building meeting space along with a parking lot.

The interior of the building will have an open lobby, desk area and an equipment display. There will

also be a trip preparation room, drying room and laundry room to accommodate all of the adventure equipment used on Campus Recreation Adventure trips and available for rent.

There will also be a 1,000 square foot meeting room for additional programming and team building space.

The High Ropes Course is a multi-function course that includes vertical and horizontal challenges to engage groups of any skill level, stage, age or ability. The course will feature 27 activities, or elements.

“This new course is designed in a way that users of all abilities can experience challenge and support together, making it universally accessible,” Bastian said.

The High Ropes Course focuses on a customized sequence of activities that are intended to be physically and emotionally challenging. A focused ref lection

follows each element. Through experience and ref lection, the High Ropes Course aims to develop skills that can be transferred back to real life.

Director of Facilities Planning and Construction Management David Gill said the Outdoor Activity Center is set to open by the end of the year.

“The [Outdoor Activity Center] is currently under construction on the west side of the Campus Rec recreation fields on Gregory Street,” Gill said. “It is currently intended to be open and operational in late fall.”

“We are very excited about the opportunities this new facility will provide the ISU and surrounding community,” Bastian said. “If the usage of the Outdoor Activity Center reflects the enthusiasm and excitement that already exists for this new facility then we expect and overwhelming response.”

Campus Solutions updating systems for better quality STEPHANIE RODRIGUEZ News Editor | @StephanieRoddd

Campus Solutions at Illinois State University is going through some upgrades that may eventually lead to the removal of one of the school’s online portals.

Go.IllinoisState.edu is a portal for both current and prospective students that allows them to pick classes and view financial aid, among other things.

As of right now the site is currently under construction, with a message reading that the site will be discontinued after Tuesday, though this is not expected to happen yet.

“A system upgrade is happening,” Technology Support Technician Darrell Dobbs said. “They

don’t plan on moving anything right now.”

Though the site will be active once the upgrades are done, talk of combining it with another student portal—My.IllinoisState.edu—could make the incoming student experience a little easier.

“If you’re a prospect student and you try signing into My.Illinoisstate it won’t let you,” Dobbs said.

“So, what would happen was we would get a lot of calls from people saying they can’t access their account. Instead of telling them to redirect they can do it all through one site.”

Another change coming to campus will help students and faculty stay better connected online.

“The biggest change right now is the wireless change on campus. There is three of them now: the IsuNet, the IsuStartHere and the IsuPublic,” Dobbs said.

The Vidette The Vidette is published Monday and Thursday every week, except for final examinations, holidays and semester breaks. The Summer Vidette is published in June and July. Students are responsible for the content of the Vidette. The views presented do not necessarily represent, in whole or part, those

“What that does is it separates faculty and staff from nonstudents, so not everybody is on the same Wi-Fi. Making things run faster.”

The change will mean less people on one connection along with an option for those planning to stay on campus for a short period.

“Normally we would have a bunch of people on the school’s internet, people who aren’t part of the school or incoming students who stay connected to it.,” Dobbs said.

“But now if you’re coming here as a guest, and you’re only going to be here for a week or two, you’ll be put on the guest access and have that capability that will shut down when you leave.”

For updates on the outage visit the Tech Alerts website.

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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

Giordano’s coming to Bloomington-Normal STEPHANIE RODRIGUEZ News Editor | @StephanieRoddd

A popular chain pizza restaurant is set to bring f lavor and fun to the Twin Cities next month.

Giordano’s—known for having “Chicago’s best pizza” according to the Chicago Tribune—is expected to open sometime in August.

Aaron Uftring, who will franchise the new pizzeria, is opening the new location in the former Qdoba restaurant at 1505 N. Veterans Parkway in Bloomington.

Staffing around 50 employees the restaurant will have a capacity of 70.

Opening just in time for the return of Illinois State and Illinois Wesleyan University students, the restaurant is just one of the many new restaurants coming to town.

Portillos Hotdogs, another popular Chicago style restaurant, will open the same month as Giordano’s, adding to students and community members’ dining options.

According to the restaurants website it’s hoping to bring a little bit of Chicago to central Illinois.

“For more than 40 years, Giordano’s has crafted the best deep dish pizza in the world. We’re more than a restaurant­— we’re an experience that’s become a cherished Chicago tradition for locals and visitors alike,” the site reads.

The restaurant applied for a responsible beverage service liquor license which would allow the sale of beer and wine only by the glass for consumption on the premises seven days a week.

The Bloomington City Council passed the request at their meeting earlier this month, allowing the restaurant to sell alcohol.

Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photo Editor

A Giordano’s like this one in Vernon Hills will soon be opening its doors to Blo-No customers.

Change? Forget about it Digging for loose coins is a thing of the past with new electronic meters coming to The Alamo II ALI RASPER News Reporter | @alirasper4

Beginning this fall at Illinois State University, The Alamo II’s multi-space parking meters will accept coins, bills, and credit/debit cards.

The machine outside the campus bookstore will take any debit/credit card that is backed by a major credit card processor, including Visa and MasterCard. The new project is designed to make parking easier for ISU students as well as make it easier for the Office of Parking and Transportation.

Administrative Aide for the Office of Parking and Transportation Joseph Corcoran explained that the switch will help both students and staff.

“The objective to implement credit card accepting machines was not the primary goal of the project,” Corcoran said. “At Parking, we manage over 300 single space, coin operated parking meters. The meters are heavily used and require regular collection, maintenance, repair and replacement.”

“In the Alamo II parking lot, there are 40 single space meters,” he said.

“Replacing single space meters with multi-space meters, will reduce the amount of time spent collecting coin from each meter, reduce the amount of time spent maintaining the meters and will reduce our spare parts inventory.”

The lot will be configured in a payby-space setup. Each parking space will be numbered in order to keep organization in the lot.

Once you have parked in a space, guests will record their number and head over to the pay station. Each lot with the new meters will have a pay

Erik Jones

Former assistant AG enters race for Davis’ seat KEVIN SCHWALLER News Editor | @kevschwa

Monica Mendoza | Vidette Photo Editor

Across from Watterson Dining Center, The Alamo II parking lot is a high traffic area with students, faculty, staff and visitors parking there throughout the day. station where every transient will come to pay for their spot.

With time, the Office of Parking and Transportation is looking to change the pay station into pay at your spot but for now, guests will use the pay station.

Corcoran added if the new meters are a success, the Office of Parking and Transportation will look to add the card accepting meters all over parking lots on campus. For students who commute to class, this will be a positive change in their daily routine.

“Current campus parking meters are coin only,” Corcoran said.

“Expanding payment options to allow payment using a credit card, cash or cell phone, should make parking more convenient in the area. Implementing a pay-by-cell option further enhances parking convenience. Pay-by-cell will give transients the option to avoid the need to use one of the two pay stations which will be placed in the lot.”

Corcoran said the pay-by-cell will alert the parker when their time is about to expire and can allow them to add additional parking time without returning to their vehicle.

“There is a 37 cent convenience fee for using the pay-by-cell component. However, we are exploring options for student promotions which will offset the cost for the parker,” Corcoran explained. “For example, if you load $10 onto your account, you will receive $1 free.

The parking rate will remain at $1/ hour for the lot.”

At this time there are no plans to add the Redbird card on as a payment option, but with positive feedback, the opportunities are endless.

“Pay-by-cell will give transients the option to avoid the need to use one of the two pay stations which will be placed in the lot.”

Joseph Corcoran, administrative aide for the Office of Parking and Transportation

Latin@ Alumni Network connects former students through summer fun SARAH ATEN News Reporter | @sarahmaten

The Latin@ Alumni Network is hosting their third annual summer scholarship fundraiser from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 19.

The organization was founded to help bring together Illinois State University Latina alumni

Rodney Davis

and strengthen their link to the university.

“The more we can engage our alumni, I think the better for everyone. You know, we have a lot of young Latina alumni who are in the Chicago area, for instance, who are looking for opportunities to continue to be engaged with the university and also to network with others, so that’s really the purpose,” LAN Vice President Daniel Lopez Jr. said.

It will be a fun festive event, with Lopez cooking Spanish food including paella and providing sangria. There is expected to be music for participants to enjoy.

The gathering is an opportunity to raise funds for scholarships and for alumni to mingle and network.

“One of the goals that we have is

to also fundraise for scholarships, which is something that we have been doing for a couple of years now,” Lopez said.

Lopez is optimistic that the Chicago weather will be good for the outside event. He said the event will have a relaxed atmosphere.

“Well, I think it’s bringing alums who, you know, haven’t had an opportunity to engage with the university in the past so, it’s a good way for us to get other alumni involved in the organization,” Lopez said.

Lopez and husband Greg Beirise’s home will serve as the location of the event at 1530 W. Estes Ave., Chicago.

It is recommended that those who attend contribute to the LAN with a financial gift to support

LAN scholarships.

“We gave out our first scholarship this past year, we’re really glad that we can help out students that way,” Lopez said The event is also a way to help current students get ready for life after ISU. “We’re also trying to connect with students who are currently enrolled at the university to help them kind of see beyond their undergraduate studies and begin to connect them to possibly even job opportunities, even network here in the Chicago area.”

The deadline for registration is at 4:30 p.m. August 11. Registration can be completed by either contacting Alumni Relations at (309) 438-2586 or going on the Alumni Association website.

A former Illinois assistant attorney general joined the group of Democrats hoping to challenge U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Taylorville) in the 2018 election Monday.

Erik Jones (D-Edwardsville) has launched a campaign for Illinois’ 13th Congressional District.

Jones said the economic challenges facing towns throughout the state and his frustration with Davis and other politicians who he believes do not offer solutions to problems people are facing.

“Illinois needs to send bulldogs, not backslappers, to Congress to confront our challenges,” Jones said. “We’ve grown too comfortable with low expectations of our leaders. It’s time we raise the bar, and that starts with changing who we send to Washington.”

“I’m running for Congress because our best days can still be ahead of us if we stand up and fight for them,” Jones added.

“And, when it comes to speaking up for underdogs and fighting for everyday people, I’ll put my record up against anyone’s.”

Bloomington’s Dr. David Gill, University High School teacher Benjamin Webb and former Democratic staffer Betsy Dirksen Londrigan have also announced their candidacies for the congressional seat.

After some speculation of a potential campaign, State Rep. Carol A mmons (D -Urbana) announced Monday she would not run to challenge the Republican congressman or her Democratic candidates.

Davis was first elected in 2012.

The 13th Congressional Dist r ic t includes por t ions of Bloomington-Normal and all of Champaign-Urbana, Decatur and Springfield.

Kevin Schwaller is a news editor for The Vidette. He can be reached at vidette_kschwal@ ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @kevschwa.

Viewpoint

PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE

VIDETTE EDITORIAL

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

‘4:44’ an ode to love, accountability, black excellence

J

ay-Z is back at it again with an extremely personal and introspective record. His 13th studio masterpiece, “4:44,” was released last month after his historic induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and its fire has not died down in the least bit. The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America less than a week after it hit the music mogul’s urban streaming service Tidal.

This is Jay’s most raw, honest and intimate work yet, discussing the highs and lows of love, how family influence shapes us and evolving to a higher consciousness. He digs deep in this hard hitting album, while flaunting his impeccable flow and dropping fundamental gems in each track.

“4:44” starts with “Kill Jay-Z,” where the artist relinquishes his cryptic and tough facade with statements like, “The pain is real, but you can’t heal what you never reveal.” He prepares listeners for an emotional ride filled with self-criticism, vulnerability and repentance as he combats his own ego.

Following the intro is “The Story of O.J.” in which Jay attempts to enlighten the black community about the importance of financial freedom, as well as how to properly invest and allocate funds stating, “You wanna know what’s more important than throwing money in the strip

club? Credit. You ever wonder why Jewish people own all the property in America? This how they did it.”

He masterfully separates himself from new age rappers today who advocate blowing money on ephemeral, material items that don’t contribute to ensuring a secure future for themselves or their families. He makes it clear that he has reached a level of greater understanding and responsibility that many other artists in this genre have not yet attained.

On the next track “Smile,” featuring his mother Gloria Carter,

Jay reminisces about how “bad times” in his life have helped him change his future for the better.

He sheds light on the hardships he faced when coming to terms with his mother’s homosexuality with lines such as, “Society, shame and the pain was too much to take,” and “Cried tears of joy when you fell in love. Don’t matter to me if it’s a him or her.”

Jay-Z’s vulnerability, especially in this song, makes him so much more relatable to his listeners who face similar hardships with sexuality and self-identity in general. He allows us to emotionally connect with him while gain-

ing hope that the future will be brighter, and someday “bad times [will] turn to good memories.”

Jay-Z also reflects on his past infidelity in an open apology letter to his wife Beyoncé on the self titled track “4:44.” He declares, “I apologize, often womanize. Took for my child to be born to see through a woman’s eyes.” Jay goes on to express the anticipated embarrassment he will one day face when his children find out about the pain that he caused their mother. He speaks directly to his oldest daughter Blue Ivy stating, “If I wasn’t a superhero in your face, my heart breaks for the day I have to explain

Photo courtesy Roc Nation

my mistakes.”

Once again he separates himself from the competition and shows how much he has evolved through a peaceful and empathetic approach while ditching the hateful and misogynistic rhetoric that has remained popular in the world of rap.

On the song “Family Feud,” Jay makes it a point to speak on the deep rooted spirit of rivalry in the hip-hop industry, which has caused unnecessary conflict in the community. Jay repeatedly asserts that “nobody wins when the family feuds,” and calls for all rappers and fans to work together in an effort to advance the culture as a whole and uplift everyone who is a part of it.

The album ends with “Legacy,” a discussion of his incredible work ethic and dedication to improving the lives of his family and the condition of society as a whole.

The entire body of work that is “4:44” serves as an avenue for intense self-analysis, revelations and enlightenment. He gives us a front row seat to his recollection of painful memories as he opens up about past mistakes he has made, and works toward creating a better tomorrow. This album is a breath of fresh air from the shallow and pointless mumble rap of today. Jay-Z reminds us of why he holds the title of greatest rapper alive in this ode to love, accountability and black excellence.

Editorial written by TAMIA LITTLE, 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.

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What has been your favorite movie of the year so far?

The best movies of 2017 (so far) MY VIEW KEVIN SCHWALLER | Columnist

I

’m glad that in 2017 major film studios are finally getting it together and releasing actual quality movies that aren’t just crappy juggernauts designed to bring in the big bucks.

Granted, they are still very much juggernauts bringing in the big bucks, but we’ve seen a handful of them prove to earn these achievements; gone are the days of “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” and “Suicide Squad,” quite possibly two of the most overrated and awful movies I’ve ever seen.

With that, I’m pleased that 2017 has offered up some of the most delightful cinematic experiences I’ve had thus far.

“Girls Trip”

“Split”

“Get Out”

First off, “Girls Trip” is not just the funniest movie of the year, but of all time. Regina Hall, Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith and the hysterical Tiffany Haddish lead the comedy and their chemistry is unstoppable. While it isn’t exactly family-friendly, it’s a relief to see Hollywood can still make a solid comedy. Most of the time, we are lucky to get one favorite moment in a comedy, but “Girls Trip” offers what seems to be dozens.

If there’s a 2017 movie that deserves some more love, it’s “Split.”

M. Night Shyamalan released the thriller of a lifetime, proving that somewhere, deep down, he can still make a decent movie. The psychological drama about a man with 23 (wait, make that 24) very different personalities is mastered

by James McAvoy. Seriously, this movie will have you sweating.

One of my absolute favorite social pieces and horror movies of all time, it would be an absolute travesty if “Get Out” doesn’t get some serious nominations at the end of the year. A young AfricanAmerican man’s weekend in hell at his white girlfriend’s family manor perfectly satirizes horror tropes by keeping us one step ahead of its conventions, until those conventions become unsettling and scary enough to take us along for the ride. Jordan Peele’s directorial debut really was the right film at the right time: it made Peele the first AfricanAmerican writer/director to earn $100 million in his debut.

“Wonder Woman” Director Patty Jenkins’ film bypasses the self-pity that defines some of Wonder Woman’s male counterparts (Batman) and gives the Amazonian warrior a dignity that runs circles around vigilantism that so many of her counterparts (Batman) deal with.

This successful women-centric superhero movie proved that, yes, people do love female-led movies. Can we get more “Wonder Woman” movies instead of “The Avengers”? Please? Thank you.

“The Beguiled” Not one, but two female-led movies directed by women on this list? Thanks, 2017. Someone write “Bring me the anatomy book” on my tombstone. Nicole Kidman, playing the Confederate headmistress at a Civil War-torn boarding school, hisses these words, preparing to operate on a wounded Colin Farrell after declaring she is not a surgeon. Sofia Coppola’s adaptation of Thomas P. Cullinan’s novel is an historical gothic thriller guided by Coppola’s depiction of female rivalry and lust. The cast, screenplay and cinematography do not disappoint.

VIDETTE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY 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.

“Beauty and the Beast” Is anyone surprised I saved this for last? The highest-grossing movie of the year based on the 1991 Disney classic will probably take the crown for my favorite movie of 2017 come Dec. 31. As an avid Disney, musical and Emma Watson lover, the 2017 adaption of “Beauty and the Beast” is by far my favorite Disney remake

yet. Remaking a classic is a tough task to accomplish, but director Bill Condon triumphed. The darker, more epic production design set the stage for Watson’s more feminist version of Belle, and proved, yet again, that female-led movies can demolish. From the casting to the additional songs to the costumes, this rendition is hard not to love.

Plus, it truly is impossible not to melt when you see Belle and the Beast smile at each other as that iconic theme song begins to play.

No doubt there are numerous gems to come in the months ahead, given that by the holidays, we’ll have the latest works from acclaimed directors like Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg.

But, regardless of what is to come, these films should not be missed.

And should be watched multiple times. And then one more time just for good measure.

Kevin Schwaller is a news editor and columnist for The Vidette.

He can be reached at vidette_ kschwal@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @kevschwa.

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.

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

REVIEWS

Christopher Nolan changes genre with ‘Dunkirk’ ALEX CAMPBELL News Reporter | @alex_campbell98

“Following,” “Memento,” “The Prestige,” “The Dark Knight,” “Inception,” “Interstellar.”

The legacy of Christopher Nolan grows leaps and bounds every time he sits in his director’s chair. The question that only time will be able to answer is, “where does ‘Dunkirk’ stand?”

“Dunkirk” is a visually and audibly striking film that is as beautiful as it is destructive. It is presented in a way unlike most war movies of yesteryear, featuring very minimal dialogue.

Hans Zimmer delivers another majestic soundtrack that lays the groundwork for emotional investment. He strikes again with subtle melodic phrases that subconsciously keep the audience invested. His slowly rising crescendos are tremendous and are the backbone of much of the action.

Although a technical masterpiece, don’t believe “Dunkirk” is without its flaws. The standard emotional investment typical of a Nolan film is lost in some instances. Dunkirk could be considered a survival movie rather than one about a war. After all, “Dunkirk” was not a true battle.

Although the unique and utterly brilliant portrayal of the subtle enemy, it leaves miniature holes in the storyline that does not enable the audience to suspend its disbelief.

How are we supposed to believe they are in danger if it is not extremely prevalent in the film?

The movie follows three main areas of the rescue: Land, sea and air. They are some 400,000 allied troops on the beach at Dunkirk as they await safety.

This style of storytelling does not fully allow the audience to become engaged in the characters, especially considering the minuscule dialogue. That being said, Mr. Nolan is a mastermind and he teamed up with cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema.

Hoytema and Nolan have paired together previously on Interstellar and Hoytema is no stranger to academy award winning films himself. The scenery is beautiful and the colors and set design follow similar footsteps of classic Nolan films with solid, Graphic by Vidette Art Director Lee Walls dark colors creating a low contrast.

“Dunkirk” is not an edge-of-your-seat Nolan film, The enemy—the Germans and the Axis powers—is scarcely seen and never heard from. This puts all the screen time and but it is a movie that takes a firmly established genre in a new character development into the hands of the hopeful survi- direction. Similar to the contributions made by Mrs. Minivors. This is where some of the movie’s emotional deficiencies ver and “Apocalypse Now”: War films will never be the same. begin.

Rating: 4.5/5

Winter has finally come on ‘Game of Thrones’ MASON MCCOY @Real_McCoy18

Fans have been waiting for the return of the groundbreaking HBO series “Game of Thrones” since last summer and after a year of speculation and theory, the seventh season premiered to an unprecedented 16.1 million viewers across HBO viewing platforms.

The premiere featured a cold opener, with House Frey meeting a satisfying end at the hand of Arya Stark (Maisie Williams), whose family had been betrayed and murdered by the Frey’s in a previous season. Williams delivered some of the more memorable lines of the season premiere, and continued to showcase some of the brutal talents Arya’s character has picked up since training with the Faceless Men during the last season.

The opening scene is a terrific introduction for the season, with viewers witnessing an entire family, dozens strong, being wiped out in the first few minutes of the episode.

Although the rest of the premiere was mostly character building and plot setup, a disparity many viewers certainly noticed, Arya’s scene serves to establish the grand stakes that come with the Great War. There was very little time wasted during the season’s opening episode. All of the show’s characters

Graphic by Vidette Art Director Lee Walls

have progressed to where they need to be for the beginning of the Great War, the war between the living and the dead.

The writers of the show are known for wasting little time and packing in as much plot and character development as they are able, but some viewers are still concerned about the reduced season length. With season seven consisting of only seven episodes instead of the usual 10, some fans are concerned that the writers may not be able to deliver a coherent, satisfying rendition of the Great War, and all of the struggle and strife that this grand conflict entails.

Whether they are able to do so or not: this season will certainly be moving rapidly.

Having claimed the Iron Throne for herself in the explosive season

six finale, Cersei Lannister (Lena Headey) has created an enormous map of her empire on the floor in her King’s Landing courtyard.

While she currently sits on the Iron Throne, her brother Jaime (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) points out that she has no allies.

Sibling tension is evident in the North as well, where Jon Snow (Kit Harington) and his half-sister Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner) rule Winterfell. Jon is adapting to the role of King quite easily, but adjusting to Sansa’s newfound position at his right hand less well.

Singer Ed Sheeran also made a cameo appearance, making camp with some Lannister soldiers.

The scene opens with Arya riding south, toward King’s Landing, where she encounters the camp and decides to stay for the night.

Sheeran is heard singing, and has

some lines throughout the scene.

However, fans have complained that his appearance was unnecessary and gratuitous. Sheeran and Williams are close friends offset, and proponents of the scene argue this is why Sheeran played such an integral role within it. Whatever viewer’s feelings about the musician may be, he undoubtedly appears on screen for longer than normal cameo roles and proves to be a distraction for the viewers who recognize him.

A second viewing of the scene may prove more helpful for viewers who got caught up in the cameo, but the scene, instead of being a chance to expand Arya’s character, will for most always just be “the scene with Ed Sheeran in it.”

The episode ends with Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) arriving in Dragonstone. After so much time watching Daenerys in exile, viewers know well what this moment means to her. When she runs her fingers along the vast dust-covered table, carved in the shape of Westeros, and declares ‘Shall we begin?’, viewers know she’s not talking about the housework.

Whatever viewers thought of the season premiere, they will surely be tuning in for the episodes to come, with hopes that the show will only continue to get better as the season progresses.

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‘Girls Trip’ delivers fresh fun for friends to enjoy TIFFANY MORRISON News Reporter | @MorrisonTiffany

A night with the ladies is always one to remember, but now it is on the big screen. “Girls Trip” is the perfect summer movie that will have the room laughing from beginning to end.

This refreshing film, starring Regina Hall, Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah and Tiffany Haddish, is the perfect mix of both drama and comedy that will have the audience craving more from these four lovely ladies.

The comedy explores a group of women who were sorority sisters in college and became best friends but have gone down very different paths in life. Keeping in touch started to grow more difficult throughout the years and eventually the “Flossy Posse” was no more. That is, until Hall’s character Ryan catches herself reminiscing and when she’s set to speak at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, decides to bring the ladies together for a reunion weekend.

Four ladies together for a whole weekend, as we know, means drama is right around the corner.

Even though they are all on different paths, these women know something is missing from their lives. Each personality within the group is different from each other, yet that is what makes their group of friends even stronger.

“Girls Trip” also touched on both women empowerment and black womanhood. The uplifting, powerful ending gives an idea that women can do anything, if they stand together.

Malcom D. Lee created a gem with this one, as well as the actors by flawlessly portraying his vision for the movie. Definitely a film to see with a group of friends, just maybe not the parents.

Rating: 5/5

Rating: 5/5

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Features

PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE

REVIEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

BABY

‘Apes’ showcases brilliance, not baboonery STUART STALTER Features Reporter | @VidetteStuS

This reviewer anticipated unleashing a barrage of one-liners and primate puns upon “War for the Planet of the Apes.” However, the gripping picture Matt Reeves directed does not warrant comedic jabs. This movie’s value extends beyond gorilla warfare.

The film’s brilliance comes from pulling heartstrings rather than primates pulling grenade pins.

The plot reveals that, at the core, humans are closer to their beastly brethren than society cares to admit. In this conflict, humans represent the true savages.

Viewers quickly find themselves rooting against their own species. Colonel (Woody Harrelson) swiftly answers ape leader Caesar’s (Andy Serkis) plea for peace with the unprovoked slaughter of Caesar’s family.

Disdain for humans only grows as time advances. More heinous actions prove mankind deserves extinction. For example, remorseless soldiers slash malnourished apes’ backs as punishment for resisting slave labor. Thankfully, the Simian Flu, a virus devolving the human race, ensures mankind’s time is ticking.

Character development is as carefully crafted as plot development. Caesar’s plight engineers well-written evolution from a

Monica Mendoza | VIdette Photo Editor

“War for the Planet of the Apes” is the third installment of the franchise. staunch peace advocate to a tragic hero wrestling with animalistic instincts. Though audiences snarl at soldiers’ sadistic actions, the goal of human survival is comprehensible. That said, Colonel is an excellent antagonist with an icy gaze and iron fist. Bad Ape (Steve Zahn) provides genuinely humorous comic relief. Reeves utilizes the character enough to pause tension, yet not enough to compromise the storyline’s seriousness.

References to past Ape movies enrich this picture. Though Caesar killed Koba (Toby Kebbell) in “Dawn,” Koba resurfaces inside

Caesar’s mind. Previously, Caesar strongly opposed Koba’s bloodlust.

Now, through newfound empathy, Caesar realizes that he and Koba are alike.

Additionally, The Simian Flu (and its ape-strengthening trait) started from experimentation in “Rise.” Furthermore, a mute girl named Nova (Amiah Miller) is a nod to the original 1968 “Planet of the Apes”. Here, Nova shows that some innocence remained among humans. Caesar’s confidant Maurice (Karin Konoval) adopts her.

Acting marries a premium plotline to exquisite execution.

Serkis anchors the cast with a versatile, Oscar-worthy performance.

Serkis’ guttural, pain-soaked vocals perfectly encapsulate Caesar’s emotions. His mime-like movements suspend viewer disbelief.

Harrelson’s callous performance as Colonel fuels hatred for humans.

Harrelson’s acting is so convincing, that even a scene explaining why he had to kill his own son garners zero sympathy. Though most apes cannot talk, facial expressions and sign languages perfectly convey emotions.

During silence, the score speaks loudly. Music remains strong from the beginning to the end. A tense bass signifies unease during the opening scene of gunners planning an ambush. Near the end, cheerful bells ring in concert with apes’ victory squeals to signify a definitive win.

Though its soul lies in the story, aesthetically, “War” is one of the grandest displays of cinematic wizardry to grace theatres. Computer generated images (CGI) of apes strike an astonishing resemblance to reality. Every scene serves as testimony to CGI’s progression.

Whether showing snowcapped mountains or incinerated camps, graphics never disappoint.

Simply put: the 2018 Oscar committee needs to hail Caesar. “War” is not the first “Apes” movie, but it the best and deserves to be the last.

Rating: 5/5

Lana Del Rey’s ‘Lust for Life’ sets a new tone DANIA DE LA HOYA Features Reporter | @daniadelahoya

“And a lust for life keeps us alive.”

Following a few setbacks in the form of leaked songs, Lana Del Rey finally released her fourth studio album, “Lust for Life,” Friday morning.

Fans of Del Rey have come to expect her trademark gloomy tracks, but the indie-pop singer has apparently found her way out of the darkness and discovered a new lust for life with her newest album. All it takes is one glance at the upbeat cover art, which depicts a smiling Del Rey, dressed in all white with flowers as accessories, to note the first tangible difference between “Lust for Life” and Del Rey’s previous three albums.

That is not to say Del Rey has completely changed her tune and left behind the gloom and darkness. Instead, Del Rey uses “Lust for Life’s” sixteen tracks, Del Rey’s longest album to date, to let in some glimmers of light and experiment with sunnier beats and lyrics while retaining her classic and distinctive sound.

Del Rey kicks the album off with “Love,” an immediate departure from her usual gloom. She sings about how it feels to be young and in love, with the world at your fingertips: “Look at you kids, you know you’re the coolest/The world is yours and you can’t refuse it” and “It don’t matter because it’s enough/To be young and in love.” At the end of the song, Del Rey connects herself to this younger generation and sings about her own love.

Del Rey moves on to the namesake of the album, “Lust for Life,” featuring The Weeknd, still holding on to the hopefulness of “Love.” The Weeknd’s influence is palpable in the pop tone that this track takes on, with both artists softly singing love lyrics that are mostly hopeful: “In these stolen moments / The world is mine / There’s nobody here, just us together.” In classic Del Rey fashion, she broods about the unfairness of life but still hopes for the future: “They say only the good die young / That

just ain’t right.” lovers in “In My Feelings,” All hope for the future disanother soulful, balladappears with “13 Beaches,” sounding track. Del Rey which will be more familiar laments her heartbreak in to fans of Del Rey, with its the beginning, but takes on somber piano melody, slow, a more aggressive approach rhythmic drumming and to mending her heart in the brooding lyrics: “It hurts to lines that follow. love you / But I still love you.”

“Coachella—Woodstock In Del Rey sings about wanderMy Mind” compares the poping 13 beaches in search of an ular, California-based music empty beach to mourn her festival with the infamous loss of love.

1969 music festival, WoodDel Rey maintains that stock, in yet another soulful slow beat with “Cherry” but track. The lyrics are all about trades the brooding for a the Coachella experience: the more sensual experience. She music, the atmosphere, and sings about what it means to especially the young conLana Del Rey experience “real” love and cert-goers, with their “flower how it feels to be with the one you love. crowns.”

“White Mustang” keeps that slow beat while “Beautiful People Beautiful Problems” features giving listeners the perfect melancholy summer Stevie Nicks and starts with Del Rey’s earthy, soft road trip tune, if that’s an actual market, with vocals before Nicks joins her in the chorus and is lyrics like “Packing all my things for the summer/ later given her own verse. Nicks’ distinctive vocals Lying on my bed, it’s a bummer” and a chorus all are impossible to miss and make this a stand-out about a past lover’s white mustang. track.

“Summer Bummer” starts off much like its “Tomorrow Never Came” featuring Sean Ono predecessors, but soon ups the beat with hip-hop Lennon reverts back to the gloom we expect from additions from A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti. Del Rey, with soft strumming of the guitar in the The song is anything but a bummer and chas- background and male vocals that starkly contrast tises the listener about “not being a bummer” and A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti’s appearances. enjoying summertime. The track does a good job “Heroin” takes the gloom to the next level with of setting up a more upbeat tone for the songs that this track about addiction, death and the song’s follow. namesake drug: “Dreaming about heroin / And “Groupie Love” keeps A$AP Rocky as Del Rey’s how I gave you everything / And took your life featured artist, but trades the trap beats for a more away.” classic Del Rey sound, with soulful crooning and “Change” and “Get Free,” the final two tracks on lyrics about being a groupie and having to share the album, up the mood by bringing back feelings your man with the world. Rocky takes on the role of hope, even in the face of difficulties, to send us of the “star” with Del Rey as his “groupie” in the off: “There’s a change gonna come, I don’t know third verse: “Front row, every show like a hype where or when / But whenever it does, we’ll be man / Sing along word for word while she my bae.” here for it.”

Del Rey stops swooning over past and present Rating: 4/5

continued from page 1

Wright is known for honoring wellknown film genres—the zombie thriller, the cop crime solver and now the classic fast-pace heist—but adding his own flare to them. And it works. Instead of simply picking Hamm or Jaime Foxx (playing robbers Buddy and Bats, respectively), who are known for their action film roles, Wright chose a fresh face, and a baby face for that matter, to be smooth-moving and driving Baby.

Many producers and screenwriters fall into the trap of thinking of “the obvious choice” when it comes to filling the lead role—someone who has done their fair share of action, crime, romance, etc. films. It’s the safe choice, but Wright takes those cinematic risks and they end up prevailing.

Amid all the action, the film slows down a bit when Baby falls for Debora.

They bond over their love of music, even singing songs that have each other’s names in them. “You have us all beat,” she tells Baby. “Every song is about you.”

The classic “boy meets girl” archetype has been used film after film, but one still can’t help but smile when they see the two together.

Discussing “Baby Driver” without talking about the accompanying soundtrack cannot be done. Sometimes films incorporate music that really complements a scene; other times the mismatch of tones sticks out. Each scene is the playing song’s soulmate in “Baby Driver.” When Baby’s walking to and from the safe haven office on a coffee run, the city life syncs up with Bob & Earl’s “Harlem Shuffle.” After he has repaid his debt to Doc and he says goodbye to his getaway driver life, The Commodores’ “Easy” starts up, with lyrics “I wanna be free / Just me” expressing Baby’s wish. Sometimes a song fits two different moods perfectly like The Detroit Emeralds’ “Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms),” which shows how much Baby and Debora want to be together as they’re having dinner, but also how Doc is not ready to give up on his lucky charm getaway driver when he tells Baby to join the next heist. After one viewing of “Baby Driver,” audiences will find it nearly impossible to get the soundtrack out of their head.

While the action and soundtrack are top notch, character development is a blind spot. By the end of the film, audiences know about the accident that caused Baby to listen to music all the time, what his home life looks like and what he desires most. Other than the lead, not much is given. Little is discovered about Debora aside from the common interests she has with Baby, and barely any personal information is mentioned about the robbers and crime boss. While the movie doesn’t completely revolve around them, Wright has had stronger supporting roles in his past films, so seeing these characters defined by their job or relationship was disappointing.

The good outweighs the “needs improvement,” and Wright hits the right notes in this action-packed summer film. His originality and stunning scenes have viewers wide-eyed and coming back for a second or third screening. “Baby Driver” might also inspire some of them to search for their old iPod and fill it with some classic rock and soul tracks.

Rating: 4.5/5

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 7

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

ISU soccer to kick off season with Silvey KADE HEATHER Sports Reporter | @kade_heather

The Illinois State women’s soccer team found themselves just three wins short of a final four appearance in the 2016 NCAA Women’s College Cup. The Redbirds lost to Duke in the second round, 3-1. ISU finished 2016 with an overall record of 14-6-3 and a 9-2-1 record at Adelaide Street Field.

Former head coach Eric Golz accepted a head coaching position at the University of Dayton, opening the door for former assistant coach Brad Silvey to take over the squad.

“I’m eager to get underway, but I think there’s a lot of pressure in my

eyes. Whether it’s self-created or not, I’m looking around my office right now and there’s a lot of trophies on the wall,” Silvey said.

His focus this Brad of f se a s on has Silvey been on improving durability and making sure the players are more prepared on a physical standpoint to get through the season. The coaching staff sat down with the strengths and conditioning staff this summer and developed a program that will enhance the players’ ability to perform for longer periods of time and

quick powerful bursts throughout the game because that’s what the sport calls for.

“We wanted to make sure our girls were prepared to get through the season in a fashion where they are peaking as the season in going on, as opposed to slowing down,” Silvey said. “Our strengths and conditioning staff has been absolutely fantastic within building strength, speed and power and I’m extremely confident that our girls are going to be very fit coming into the season.”

Along with a new head coach, the Redbirds also have nine incoming freshmen.

“We lost some key components

to our system due to graduation but I’m pretty confident with these individuals that they can integrate into our lineup and be impactful for us sooner than later,” Silvey said.

This season’s team will have five seniors who have all experienced a lot of change since being at ISU. This will be their third head coach out of the four years playing for the Redbirds. That’s difficult to manage for any athlete, let alone student athletes. Silvey wants his team to play for the seniors and he thinks that belief is the key component to getting past where they were a season ago.

“What it’s really going to take is a

Get to know Derrius Rodgers ISU track star discusses freshman season, future expectations Coach Emmanuel and my dad and I liked it.

Then, the week after that I went to Champaign and things got a little weird and slow in the process with them. I decided to take an official visit with Illinois State, and after I met with all the coaches and walked around and did my thing, it felt like home.

NATE HEAD Sports Editor | @NateHead51

Derrius Rodgers has earned All-Conference honors, broke university records and competed in the NCAA Track and Field National Championship.

A resume many do not achieve in their entire career, let alone their freshman campaign.

The Illinois State sophomore-to-be flawlessly transitioned from a high school state champion to the top of the track and field program last season, racking up a laundry list of accolades and personal best times throughout both the indoor and outdoor season.

While training for the upcoming season, Rodgers spoke to The Vidette regarding his adolescence, early success and future expectations.

Starting at the beginning, can you tell me a little about how you got started in track and field?

I started doing track and field in middle school. It wasn’t too competitive at that age, I just did it for fun. When I got to high school, I didn’t do it my freshman year because I wanted to focus on basketball and football. As a sophomore, I don’t want to say I was forced, but I was really convinced by my track coaches to come out.

I had a successful first year, and then big junior and senior seasons. The passion grew for the sport and I chose to do it in college.

What are some things you learned as a high school track athlete that helped prepare you to compete at the collegiate level?

I learned a lot. First off, there was a big difference between football speed and track speed.

What was the experience of competing in Nationals like?

Derrius Rodgers There are a lot of guys that are fast on the football field or in other sports, but I learned pretty quickly that track speed is a lot different and that everyone around me is fast, too.

I learned that I had to a lot more training to get where I wanted to be. At first, I thought speed was something you were just given with, but there is a lot of work that goes into it. That was the biggest thing for me.

How was the decision to attend Illinois State made?

Once I finally decided that I was going to run track in college, I got in contact with my high school coaches and they reached out to a lot of schools for me. For awhile, I was thinking of attending the University of Illinois in Champaign.

Then, I took an unofficial visit to ISU with

ISU baseball earns academic honor NATE HEAD Sports Editor | @NateHead51

The Illinois State baseball has earned an American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) Team Academic Excellence Award for the 2016-17 school year.

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I qualified at our indoor conference meet. I was shocked myself that I was to compete in Nationals. I didn’t expect to, I expected to eventually but not this early. To be able to compete on the biggest stage was probably one of best experience I’ve had in sports.

The atmosphere was unbelievable. It was cool to look around and see so many familiar faces from TV and realize that I’m right here with them. It was a humbling experience and I’m happy that I got that in my freshman year so I know what it’s like.

Do you feel any pressure to duplicate your success in this upcoming season?

I don’t feel any pressure. I’m more excited for this year than last year after seeing my freshman results. I know there are some sprint and relay records up for grabs that I could be a part of so those are some goals that I’ll be going after.

And also, making it to Nationals was great and all, but I want to place top 8 right away here in indoors. So, I don’t necessarily feel any pressure to repeat…I know that I’ve been putting the work in and I’m more excited than anything to get back after it.

The Redbirds are one of just 26 Division I programs to receive the honor this past year, which recognizes teams with a collective 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher. Illinois State is one of two Missouri Valley Conference honorees.

Illinois State set a team GPA record during the spring semester with a 3.26 mark, serving as the sixth consecutive season in which the team improved its overall total.

The ‘Birds sent 31 of 35 players to the AFNI Honor Roll, 29 of whom were named to the MVC Honor Roll.

Seven ISU members achieved perfect 4.0 GPAs.

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little bit of belief. They have put in the time and commitment, they get excited about showing up to practice and getting after it. They have a winning mentality, so to have an underlying feeling and emotion for belief that we can overcome challenges and change is what it will take,” Silvey said.

This team is hoping for a repeat of the terrific 2016 campaign and to possibly take it even further this season. In order for this, the team must stick to core values and view each day as an opportunity to grow, learn and improve.

Full story online.

videtteonline.com/article

HELT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Helt’s conversion, while it made sense due to his prior experience, was still a difficult adjustment. As a player who came into campus weighing in at only 220 pounds, increasing his size once again became a challenge for him.

Through a proper diet and extensive strength-training, Helt put on enough weight to give himself a chance to play on the offensive line in 2015. Since then, he has appeared in 20 games as an additional lineman.

“I never thought Dean would be this big, to be honest, when I recruited him,” ISU coach Brock Spack said. “I just thought he’d move inside, maybe on defense at 260/270 [pounds] and be a defensive tackle or a three technique, maybe on the end.”

He lt ’s te a m m ate a nd room mate Ad a m C on le y acknowledges the dedication Helt has shown throughout his tenure as a Redbird.

“It’s really a testament to him and him buying into the program,” Conley said. “A lot of guys might fight or rebel against trying to gain that much weight. They don’t like how they look. They don’t like how they feel. But, he bought into the program and he did what was best for the team.”

Full story online.

videtteonline.com/article

Sports

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 8

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017

SPORTS IN BRIEF Redbirds picked to finish 5th in MVFC

Kelly McNamara | Vidette Photographer

Former guard Paris Lee works out on the offensive side of the floor in Illinois State’s 2017 Arch Madness semifinal game.

Former ISU star Lee takes Giant leap overseas MIKE MARRA Sports Editor | @MikeMarraILSTU

Dating back to April, recent Illinois State graduate and basketball standout, Paris Lee, began his road to playing professional basketball.

On July 14, Lee signed a contract to play for the Antwerp Giants of Belgium. However, Lee’s route to signing a pro deal wasn’t as easy as it may seem.

“It was very, very rocky. Very rocky. It was irritating, but you know I didn’t let that affect me, I did all my workouts,” Lee said. “I just stuck with the course.”

Lee worked out with three NBA teams in hopes of hearing his named called during the NBA Draft. The Illinois State grad worked out with the Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets.

After not being drafted or picked up by a team for NBA Summer League, as one could imagine, Lee was a little let down.

“I got down, I got real down when I didn’t get drafted and didn’t get picked up for summer league cause I felt like I definitely could compete with the majority of guys out there playing Summer League,” the six-foot point guard Lee said.

The next move Lee made, he feels helped him most which was returning back to ISU to continue his workouts.

“I got down for a second, but I came out here to Normal, Ill., and it was probably the best decision I made of the summer, was coming back out here working out with my coaches and playing with the guys down here now,” the 2017 Missouri Valley Conference Player and Defensive Player of the Year said.

“They just kept my spirits high and they made me feel good about myself.”

One person giving advice to Lee was Redbird head coach Dan Muller.

“The main thing (he told me), don’t get discouraged. Don’t get discouraged because a lot of people really want to do what I’m doing, just play basketball,” the Maywood, Illinois, product said.

Despite not being taken in the NBA Draft or signed for summer league, after seeing Lee’s work ethic and drive early in his career, Muller knew professional basketball would be in the point guard’s future.

“Paris was a guy, when he came in, because of his size, I knew he was going to have to work really hard in order to be good enough to play at a high level professionally, which is what he’s doing,” the 2017 MVC Coach of the Year said. “Once he got here and really got in

the flow and we saw how he worked, I pretty much knew he was going to be able to play professionally.”

Muller also believes Lee has put himself in a position for a nice professional career.

“He sure has put himself in position to have a great professional career if he does it right and stays healthy,” Muller said.

“I think Paris, honestly, the way he plays the game on both ends of the court, the fact that he can score the ball or he can distribute the ball equally well, I think he’s a guy who can play anywhere. I’m positive he’s going to be successful.”

As his professional career is set to begin, the Proviso East product is excited to see what Antwerp brings.

“Antwerp is 500,000 people population.

From what I see and from what I hear, their fan base is crazy. They mentioned me on Twitter and Instagram. Right away, I got a lot of followers from Antwerp,” Lee said.

“So, (I’m) just looking forward to changing a community and trying to bring winning to the program.”

Before Lee takes off for his next endeavor in Germany, he has some parting words for his former teammates as well as Redbirds to come.

“Get to that dance. Get to the NCAA Tournament.”

“He sure has put himself in position to have a great professional career if he does it right and stays healthy.”

Dan Muller, Illinois State head coach

ISU senior lineman Dean Helt: From the farm to the football field

NICK LANDI Sports Reporter | TheDon1033

There are many positive qualities one can gain from spending their life growing up on a farm.

An individual can become humble, hard-working and more persistent towards achieving goals. Not to mention all the labor can help a farmer become physically more healthy and stronger.

Take Illinois State football redshirt-senior offensive lineman Dean Helt as an example. He grew up on a dairy farm in Dane, Wisconsin, an experience that has helped shape him into both the player and person he is today.

“It [growing up on a farm] taught me having responsibilities and a work ethic,” Helt said.

“That’s probably the biggest thing that I attribute to my Dean work ethic today.”

Helt Farming is synonymous with the Helt family. To this day, the youngest Helt continues to assist the business by working in the milking parlor, helping nourish hundreds of calves among other tasks.

Football was also often a part of the family’s identity. Whether it was watching his two older brothers play on Friday nights in high school or the

Green Bay Packers on Sundays, Helt got plenty of exposure to the sport.

From the beginning of his career, which kicked off around fourth grade, Helt had to deal with the challenge of balancing both lives. When he was not at school or practicing, he was usually at home doing more work on the farm.

Helt also had to work around his size, or lack thereof. His small body made him gain experience as both a quarterback and running back rather than as a lineman.

When he got to Waunakee High School, however, Helt’s time on the farm was paying off. He had grown big enough to play on both the offensive and defensive lines for the Warriors. In his senior year,

he had 83 tackles, 14 sacks and 16 tackles-for-loss.

After originally having no intentions on going to college, Helt ultimately headed to ISU in 2013. He redshirted his freshman campaign and only received a few chances to play as a backup defensive lineman in 2014.

The following year, there were multiple openings on the offensive line as a result of departing players and injuries. A decision was then made to switch Helt to the other side of the ball.

Helt’s conversion, while it made sense due to his prior experience on the other side of the ball. see HELT page 7

On Tuesday, the Missouri Valley Football Conference released its 2017 preseason poll.

In the poll, Illinois State is projected to finish in fifth place with a total of 246 points.

A season ago, the Redbirds finished with a 6-6 overall record, which included a postseason appearance. Illinois State finished with an even .500, 4-4 record in MVFC play.

Picked to finish first was 2016 MVFC co-champion North Dakota State, who received 21 first-place votes and a total of 380 points.

Right behind the Bison is the other MVFC 2016 co-champion South Dakota State. The Complete Poll Jack Rab1. North Dakota St. bits were 2. South Dakota St. picked 3. Youngstown St. to finish 4. Northern Iowa second, 5. Illinois St. but did 6. Western Illinois receive 19 7. South Dakota first-place 8. Southern Illinois votes and 9. Missouri St. a grand total of 379 10. Indiana St. Source: MVFC points, just one behind North Dakota State.

Last year’s FCS runner-up, Youngstown State is slated third, with Northern Iowa behind them in fourth place.

The last five slots in the preseason poll belong to Western Illinois, South Dakota, Southern Illinois, Missouri State and Indiana State in that order.

Of the last 31 preseason polls, the projected champion has finished in the top spot 19 times.

North Dakota State has at least earned a share of the MVFC title the previous six seasons.

MIKE MARRA | SPORTS EDITOR

5 ISU football players earn MVFC Preseason The Missouri Valley Football Conference named five Illinois State football players to the 2017 MVFC preseason team Monday.

Senior defensive back Davontae Harris, senior safety Alec Kocour, senior defensive lineman Dalton Keene and junior wide receiver Spencer Schnell will each earned a spot on the team, which is voted on annually by league coaches, media and sports information directors.

Kicker Sean Slattery earned honorable mention honors.

Harris and Kocour are primed to remain as forces in the defensive secondary in the fall. Harris, a 2016 All-MVFC First Team selection, led the league in passes defended with 15. Kocour earned All-MVFC Second Team honors last season after leading the league in tackles by a defensive back.

Keene and Schnell play different sides of the ball, but both are expected to be major pieces for coach Brock Spack. Keene, 2016 All-MVFC Second Team, tied for second among defensive lineman in tackles last season with 67 stops. Schnell earned a 2016 MVC All-Newcomer spot, racking up 59 receptions for 479 yards in his first season in Normal.

The Redbirds open fall practices July 31 and open the regular season Sept. 2 against Butler at Hancock Stadium.

NATE HEAD | SPORTS EDITOR