THE ’BIRD THE VIDETTE PRESENTS
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015 Vol. 128 / No. 02
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Football program dips into D-I talent pool SPORTS PAGE 12
Fitting in the college crowd
Behind the scenes of Reggie Redbird NEWS PAGE 3 Photo Illustration by Paige Meisenheimer / Photo Editor
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PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
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The Vidette
The Vidette is published Monday and Thursday every week, except for final examinations, holidays, and semester breaks. The Summer Vidette is published every other week. Students are responsible for the content of the Vidette. The views presented do not necessarily represent, in whole or part, those of the Illinois State University administration, faculty, and students. The Vidette is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Illinois Press Association Subscriptions are available by mail to anywhere in the United States for $150 per calendar year. © The Vidette 2015 University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890
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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
THRUSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
The bird, the myth, the legend: Reggie Redbird BRENT BADER Staff Writer
It is not unusual to be walking on the Quad and come across a 6-foot tall red bird named Reggie. He is Illinois State University’s biggest fan and a regular on campus, but what do we know about him? We all know he loves to attend ISU athletics games and pose with students for selfies on the quad, but how does he contribute to our campus beyond selling T-shirts? Graduate Assistant for the ISU Athletics Department and Reggie’s scheduler, Ryan Bogar, sees Reggie as a role model for ISU fans. “The biggest thing he does is he creates passion for fans and gets everyone in the crowd excited.� Bogar said. Keeping fans energized throughout the season is not always an easy task, and Reggie is always looking for help. Team Reggie will soon be looking for new recruits to help spread excitement and enthusiasm across campus. Tryouts to become a part of Team Reggie will be taking place 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Aug. 28 in the Redbird Room in the lower concourse of Redbird Arena. No prior sign-up is required
and no previous mascot experience is necessary to try out. It is encouraged that entries be highly energetic and have an overall passion for Redbird sports. “He really personifies the best fan.� Bogar said. “Reggie is always there for the ups and downs of the team and always has ISU’s back.� Reggie has been backing ISU since the late ’60s and was named in 1981 by the Junior Redbird Club after National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Reggie Jackson. He also hosts Reggie’s Kids Club where kids can sign up to receive free admission to certain home athletics events and special event invitations as well as activities for club members and their families prior to home games. Throughout the years, we have seen four generations of the famed Redbird, and ISU students have seen him change throughout the years to keep up to date with the constantly changing student body. Some iterations of the bird have looked quite different from the Reggie we know today, but his positive personality and love for all of ISU athletics has stayed constant. Today, students don’t need to run into Reggie on the Quad to interact with him; they can contact him online, such as on Twitter @ReggieRedbird. He is said to rest his feathers in his nest up in Redbird Arena, but the tech-savvy bird also makes
2 stabbed, 1 injured in downtown attack AVE RIO News Editor
Vince Pinto / Photo Editor
Reggie Redbird is ISU’s mascot, and can be found all around campus and at sporting events. house calls via his email address reggie@ilstu.edu for student organizations or other groups that feel their events could use a little additional ISU pep. When asked why he enjoys hanging out with ISU students
and spreading pride throughout the campus, Reggie said, speaking through a translator, as we all know birds can’t talk, it makes him “happy to encourage students to come to events and cheer loud for their Redbird teams.�
A man is in custody after two stabbings and one attack occurred in downtown Bloomington yesterday afternoon. Jason L. Hopkins, 35, was taken into custody on Wednesday. He is charged with multiple counts of aggravated battery. Hopkins is expected to face formal charges in McLean County Circuit Court Thursday or Friday. The Bloomington Police Department received multiple reports of stabbing at 2:26 p.m. and responded to the first stabbing report at 2:30 p.m. According to a media release from the Bloomington Police Department, the attacks took place in a quick succession in the 100 block of W. Washington St., the 100 block of W. Jefferson St. and the 300 block of W. Jefferson St. One victim declined medical treatment on the scene, and the other two victims sustained non-life threatening injuries and are being treated at local hospitals. BPD believes this is an isolated incident and do not think there are additional threats to community members. One of the victims was reported to be a Pantagraph employee who was working outside near the company’s parking lot. A Bloomington sergeant declined comment Wednesday. The Pantagraph also reported a second victim was a visitor from Germany who was traveling on Route 66.
How to spend your first weekend The first week of the semseter is almost over, and students are looking forward to an eventful weekend out of the classroom HyVee Night If you want to start your weekend a little early, then check out HyVee Night hosted by the University Program Board 6-8 p.m on Thursday. There will be plenty of games such as corn hole, three legged races, as well as a dunk tank and a rock wall. For those of you who like wings or just eating food in general, there will also be a wing eating contest. The event has many opportunities for students to win prizes. Students who are interested in attending will meet at the circle drive of the Bone Student Center where they will be bussed to HyVee. Buses will start shuttling students at 6 p.m. with the last shuttle bus to HyVee leaving at 7:30 p.m. The shuttle buses will leave HyVee to bring students back to ISU at 8:30 p.m.
Arcade Night Bring out your inner ’90s child and join UPB as they host
Arcade Night 7-11 p.m on Friday. The event will be held at the Brown Ballroom in the Bone Student Center, just a short walk for most students. The event will include different arcade games and inflatable slides and obstacles for students to enjoy. If arcade games and slides aren’t enough to convince students to attend, Arcade Night will also have food available and a raffle. Winners of the raffle will receive free tickets to the UPB Fall Major Concert. The artist(s) will be announced soon and will take place later in the semester.
GlowRage’s PaintU Come enjoy a fun Saturday night on the Quad as UPB hosts a GlowRage paint party. The event will be from 8-11 p.m. and all students are encouraged to come join in the fun. GlowRage participants will be able to dance the night away while getting sprayed with washable paint and listening to deejays play their favorite songs. Don’t worry about leaving a mess when you head back to your dorm or apartment because there will also be a cleanup station afterwards for students.
someone is watching me. stalking is not ok. learn about your rights. of 100’s ces i o h C New
Where: MILNER PLAZA When: Sat. Aug. 15 thru Fri. Aug. 21 Time: 9 A.M. - 6 P.M. Sponsor: National Art Education Association - ISU Student Chapter
In the case of bad weather, the event will be moved to the Activity Room of the Bowling and Billiards Center located behind Milner Library.
Intramurals Lawn Games Tournament If events at night are not enough to quench your weekend thirst, then head over to Gregory Street Property for a free lawn games tournament from noon to 4 p.m. Gregory Street Property is located on Gregory Street, just west of Weibring Golf Club. The event will include games such as bags, spikeball and KanJam tournaments. Grab a friend and head over to Gregory Street Property to enjoy an afternoon of fun outdoor games. Participants can register online or on site at the event.
Compiled by Nikki Niggemeyer / Reporter
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PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
Viewpoint
MY VIEW EMA SASIC Vidette Columnist
It’s okay to feel homesick Editorial Cartoon by Athena Tapia
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
Increased textbook prices not fair Students spend an average of $1,200 on books and other class materials annually
A
lthough syllabus week is coming to a quick close, it is not uncommon for students to continue procrastinating on textbook purchases. Much of the procrastination stems from the ever-increasing price of textbooks, which leaves many students struggling to afford materials for class. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of textbooks has increased at three times the normal rate of inflation over the past 38 years. These staggering statistics leave students asking why textbooks are priced so high. One factor in the dramatic surge has to do with the rise of rentable textbooks available from online retailers. Although textbook publishers profit from the
original sale of the book, online retailers lower that profit margin by renting them out for short periods of time. The solution for major publishers is to produce as many new editions as possible, making small, but significant changes in order to make past editions obsolete. The textbook publishers then market new editions to professors, who often opt for the most up-to-date editions with newer content. This model leaves students having to either buy new textbooks or rent them at a significantly higher price. It also rapidly devalues older editions, which is why book stores buy back used books for so little. These high prices often force students into difficult situations.
Students often decide not to buy a required textbook, making it hard to succeed academically. Other times, students are forced to look for illegal copies of books which may be photocopied and posted online. Fortunately, there is hope for students. An open source textbook program at the University of Illinois was able to create a free textbook available to students, which can also be updated by professors. The program has since been replicated at other universities across the country. Open source textbook programs, like the one at U of I, have the potential to grow in size and save students hundreds of dollars a year in school costs. University-run textbook exchange programs also give
students opportunities to save money on textbooks. Exchange programs often give students the opportunity to trade in old textbooks for ones they need instead of selling them to a bookstore at a drastically lower price. While the availability of cheaper books from online vendors has made buying affordable textbooks easier for students, The National Association of College Stores has stated that as much as 66 percent of students still prefer to buy their textbooks from the campus store. With the average student spending an estimated $1,200 on textbooks and materials annually, and with tuition on the rise, the availability of affordable textbooks on college campuses is more important now than ever.
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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Editorial Cartoon by Athena Tapia
Whether you are a freshman leaving the nest for the first time or a senior who’s working toward graduation, homesickness can hit you at any age. Saying goodbye to my parents after move-in freshman year was the first time we were separated. Growing up as an only child meant that I was cared for and watched after constantly. I spent most of my time next to my parents and I loved every moment I could get with them. Once college began, I felt as though all of that was lost. I was no longer able to share my joy with my parents directly. I could not simply go to the living room and get a hug from either one of them if something went wrong. I was completely alone, and I felt miserable from the start. Many students struggle a great deal when they first go off to school, no matter their family size. They might not know anybody, so they feel isolated all the time, or they just cannot get past the idea of being away from home. Despite the cliché, just know that it will all get better. It just takes some time to adjust to the new life. A perfect opportunity to get involved on campus is Festival ISU, which falls on Aug. 27 this year. With opportunities such as sororities and fraternities, Beekeeping Club, Quidditch or Super Smash Bros. Club, you will definitely meet new people that have the same interests as you. Once I started writing for The Vidette, it kept me busy every day. Toward the end of the school year, all I could think about was which articles had to be written and when they were due. Keeping yourself occupied makes the school year go by much more quickly, bringing you closer to being reunited with friends and family. Another idea to remember is that not everything is permanent. You will not be at ISU forever, and you will not be away from your family until the end of the school year. Go home whenever you are having a stressful week and you need to be surrounded with the people that make you feel comfortable and loved. Whether you have to go home every weekend or once a month, know that you are not the only student that feels this way. Finally, if being away from home is taking too much of a toll on you, there are people on campus to talk to. Student Counseling Services offers outreach programs to help students during stressful times. Students can make appointments for individual or group counseling sessions at http://Counseling. IllinoisState.edu. Although it may seem like every student is excited to be away from home, more often than not they are feeling homesick as well. The freedom and independence associated with college can be very exciting, but needing an extra kiss from your dog once in a while is completely acceptable.
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PAGE 6 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
STI testing available
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@the_vidette
Student Health Services opened a new lab this fall solely used for STI detection
Student Health Services at ISU is now offering a lab only Sexually Transmitted Infection screening to students beginning this fall. Any student on campus at ISU is eligible for the STI screening. If a student meets the criteria, they have the option of getting tested without seeing a provider to discuss their screening. Students still have the option to see a provider to discuss screening and results of a test if they choose to do so. This new option makes it easier for students to receive the screening. Appointments can be made online or by phone to Student Health Services. Answering a list of questions will determine whether they can simply have testing done by the lab or whether they need to see a health provider. The questions use a scheduling algorithm which will guide them to the proper appointment type. “Our hope is that if more people Archive Photo are screened appropriately and Located at the corner of College and University streets, Student Health Sertreated, if necessary, that we can vices provides convenient help for any cause for medical concerns decrease transmission of these infections,” OBGYN Dr. Robert message. In the event of a pos- decrease with this new screening Kinsella said. itive result, an appointment to option. Kinsella encourages stuSome students will be directed receive treatment, counseling and dents who are sexually active to to see a provider at Student possible further screening tests, be screened periodically as well Health Services depending on will be made with a provider. as use precautions, such as contheir answers to the questions in “Our hope is that this will doms, to prevent any infection. the appointment algorithm (such improve student health by diag“Overall, STI testing is imporas a student who has symptoms of nosing STI’s efficiently to reduce tant for students just from a an STI or a student with a known the likelihood of many possi- general health standpoint,” Emily exposure to an STI). ble adverse, long-term effects of Derege, student health services Patients who have lab-only these infections such as infertil- marketing coordinator, said. “Not appointments will be notified of ity in the future,” Kinsella said. only to protect you, but maybe negative results via secure mes- “We also hope to reduce trans- your partner or others that you sage while those with positive mission of these infections.” may come in contact with. I would results will be notified by phone The hope is that the trans- encourage students to get tested by a nurse from Student Health mission of STIs on campus will at least once a year, if not more.” Services as well as by secure
Excessive summer rain troubles local farms SUSANNA DOEHLER News Reporter
An excessive amount of rainfall in the state this summer has negatively affected farms of all sizes. The large amount of showers in June has left fields flooded and crops fruitless. According to the National Weather Service, this summer has had the wettest June on record and the second wettest month ever recorded for the state. The average rainfall for June during a normal year is about 4.2 inches; this June received 9.53 inches of rainfall. “Excess rainfall has drowned out many low spots in fields and also has depleted some of the nitrogen which is essential for corn growth,” Ag-Land FS, INC Plant Manager Justin Griffin said. “Too much rain can also make the plants more susceptible to diseases which can significantly lower yields.” For significant losses the USDA has offered low-interest Farm Service Agency loans to cover their losses caused by the heavy rains. All but one county has been included in this disaster fund. Farmers have eight months to apply for these loans. For large farms there is aid to help compensate for their losses, but for some small local farms they only have each other. A local co-op called Legacy of the Land that helps family farms remain sustainable and profitable while focusing on small specialty crops and distributing their organic produce locally has had some setbacks. Legacy of the Land has its own type of aid relief. With a variety of small crops being produced by many farms
in different locations, the loss of one farm’s crop is not as overwhelming. Thanks to the variety of farms and location, if one farm’s crop fails another farm can come in and fill that space. Jane Mahalick-Wilson owns a small local farm that is maintained by her and her husband Scott, which they have partnered with Legacy of the Land. “I had set three different pick dates for my tomatoes with an estimated yield of seventy pounds for each date but they all died,” Mahalick-Wilson said. “Other people in the group will be able to cover my loss and I’ll just cover someone else’s.” The complete failure of crops is not the only thing the rain has caused. Some root vegetables, such as beets, had stunted growth while other roots grew but then rotted in the ground. Due to the excessive rain, getting into the field to do regular maintenance was made impossible at times. “The worst part is, with it being so wet I wasn’t able to get into the field to weed and in which case the weeds and the root systems took over,” Mahalick-Wilson said. “Now I have to work section by section to get my garden back again.” Even with the losses caused by the large amount of rain there is help for all; between the aid offered by the USDA for larger farms and the aid offered to each other by small farmers. Farms of all sizes look as though they will be able to pull through and farm another year. Susanna Doehler is a news reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_sddoehl@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @165_DoehlerSuzE.
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Thursday, August 20, 2015
Features
THE VIDETTE | PAGE 7
The Adventure Program through Campus Recreation is a great opportunity to explore the outdoors and away from campus for the day. Pictured above from left: Katelyn Deane, Lauren Dundek, Deena Savas, Olivia Payton and Alice Spears (Photo Submitted from Campus Recreation).
Adventure Program: an outdoor escape for students BRENT BADER Features Writer
Classes have just begun, but if you are already looking forward to your next escapade away from campus, you may want to look into the Adventure Program. The Adventure Program from Campus Recreation will be offering several opportunities this semester to escape the usual surroundings of campus and explore new locations during unique day trips. The trips will also be used to help students build core skills which can be used on and off campus. “It engages students in places that they may not otherwise partake in,” Andy Read, assistant director of marketing, said. “The students use team building skills and build communication skills on the trips,” Read said. Participants in the Adventure Program have the option of going on a variety of trips throughout the fall. The group will be offering kayak trips on Aug. 21 at Evergreen Lake and on Aug. 29 at Banner Marsh Wildlife Area. A longer
canoe trip down the Wisconsin River is planned for the weekend of Sept. 4. If nature hikes are more your speed, trips are planned for Sept. 19 at Turkey Run State Park, Oct. 10 at Clinton Lake Recreation Area and on Dec. 6 for a chilly hike through Matthiessen State Park. Before you give the winter trip the cold shoulder, be aware that last year the group trekked through the Starved Rock canyons and it ended up being a favorite for some. “I really loved this adventure because it took place during the cold months when people do not typically get outside,” Shannon Carter, senior Special Education major, said. “The sights were amazing and completely different from other times of the year and it was a great way to take a break from school and keep my body active,” Carter said. Students can register for the trips on the Campus Recreation website under the ‘Adventure With Us Activities and Trips’ webpage. For those looking to stay a little closer to home, the program also offers stand up paddle board yoga every other
Tuesday starting on Aug. 25 in the Student Fitness Center pool. They also offer indoor rope climbing every afternoon at the Student Fitness Center and provide belay workshops throughout the semester for those looking to learn how to rock climb. The activities offered change depending on what the students are interested in exploring. “The schedule is set over the summer for each upcoming school year,” Rachel Iversen, assistant director of Adventure Programs, said. “The trip schedule does change based on student input. For example, last fall our day hikes were very popular so we are offering more and different day hikes this fall,” Iversen said. Interest meetings for the Adventure Program will be held throughout the year for members who wish to guide future trips. While the Adventure Program has been in operation since 1973 (under a different name), the program was revitalized in 2005 with a newer focus on engaging students in even more athletic areas.
Ten things under $10 to do in Blo-No
Compiled by REBECCA DAVIS/Features Writer
Visit the Normal Theater
Have some fun at Sweet Corn Blues Festival
If you are looking for something in town to keep you cultured, check out The Normal Theater in Uptown which features foreign, independent and old favorites. Tickets are only $7, leaving you with some spare change to purchase the equally affordable concessions inside.
Bloomington-Normal is filled with festivals, especially this time of year. Right around the corner is the Sweet Corn Blues Festival in Uptown, which runs Aug. 22-23, or until the corn runs out. This festival is an inexpensive way to enjoy some last-minute summer treats, music and warm weather.
Get a sweet treat at Sugar Mama Bakery Sugar Mama offers many types of snacks, but its cupcakes are the most famous. The bakery has specials where you can get a few different varieties of mini cupcakes for under $10. Show your student I.D. on Mondays to get a free mini cupcake with purchase.
Explore the University Galleries University Galleries in Uptown not only offers a completely free art gallery to browse, but it also often hosts concerts and readings that are open to the public. This is a great spot close to campus where you can see some great art pieces for free.
Play at Miller Park Zoo Who doesn’t love looking at animals all day? An adult pass to the Miller Park Zoo is $6.95 and parking is free. For under $10, you can spend an entire day living in the wild!
Get a scoop or two at Emack & Bolio’s Emack & Bolio’s is constantly changing its ice cream menu with new flavors, smoothies, milkshakes and coffee all for around $5. The outdoor patio is dog friendly, and it is a sweet way to spend the afternoon or evening with friends without making your wallet feel guilty.
Get a brew at Pub II If you tell anyone in Blo-No that you have never had Pub cheese balls, expect to get a shocked reply. Yes, they really are that good. Go on ‘Pub Wednesday’ while the weather is still warm enough to sit outside for $6 pitchers of beer and a basket of mouth-watering cheese balls.
Chill at the Smoker’s Den Open until 2 a.m. on weekends, Smoker’s Den is a great place to hang out if you like going out late and are interested in smoking hookah. The hookah lounge has tips for $3 off on the weekends, making it a great and affordable place to hang out for the evening. Just make sure you have your I.D. on hand as the establishment is for adults 18 and older.
Shop at the Farmer’s Market The Bloomington Farmers’ Market, located in downtown Bloomington from 7:30 a.m. to noon, gives you the chance to stock apartment cabinets with fresh local produce and listen to live music while you shop. Entry is free and the produce is fresh and inexpensive.
Listen to some tunes at the Castle Theatre The Castle Theatre in Bloomington features national and local artists of every genre imaginable, and many shows are just around $10. To see who is coming to town, check out its schedule at www.thecastletheatre.com/calendar/.
PAGE 8 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2015
ISU and Normal to swap land BRENT BADER Staff Writer
calls,” Peterson said. “The closer we could get to the source of the A land swap between ISU and calls, the better the location for us, Normal will relocate one of the and it also provides us good access three Normal fire stations to 608 to the west part of town.” Normal will also be purchasing S. Main St. The deal, which was approved a six unit, 12 bedroom apartment by the town council on Aug. 3, will at 404 W. Locust St. with ISU’s involve Normal giving ISU three help which will then be given to town-owned properties: the cur- ISU to balance the trade. Normal rent location of their fire station at will pay $750,000, while ISU will 604 N. Adelaide St., a parking lot pay $150,000 toward the purchase. on the south side of Beaufort and The transaction is not expected to be finalized until 2017. School streets and a parcel on Sudduth The land being traded by Normal Road near College “We looked for a will equal the $2.06 Ave. and Kingsley closer location to million that the ISUSt. owned location was The deal was inicampus as that is appraised for due to tially set up because Normal was look- the site with the its location on Main St. ing to move its fire had the properhighest number of ties“We station. appraised so that we could do an equal “We had made emergency calls.” exchange.” Greg Alt, the decision to rebuild that fire interim vice president station because of Mark Peterson for finance and planCity Manager its physical condining, said. tion and its design The more immediobsolescence,” Mark Peterson, ate effects will be that the location Normal city manager, said. “We of Sudduth Road will help consolfelt there was a more strategically idate the area for the college and beneficial location because that fire ISU will be adding 117 parking station was made in the 1960s, and spaces. the town has changed substantially Acquiring the old fire station gives ISU the opportunity since then.” One of the advantages of the to expand Cardinal Court in the land swap for both parties is that future if the need arises. the change in location is expected “While there is no current plan to substantially improve response for it,” Alt said, “If we seek to times both on campus and in West expand Cardinal Court, that’s the Normal. location we would want if we need “We looked for a location closer to do that in the future.” to campus, as that is the site with The other locations were also the highest number of emergency acquired for potential future
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THE VIDETTE | FEATURES| PAGE 9
Thursday, August 20, 2015
A semester full of concerts in Blo-No David Berchtold David Berchtold is an acoustic guitarist that will be performing at 2 p.m. on Saturday Aug. 22 in Uptown Normal at the Sweet Corn Blues Festival. He will also be performing at the Sugar Creek Arts Festival in Uptown Normal. Come and enjoy his original sound with great food and an awesome atmosphere to end your summer on a good note. If you are unable to attend David’s shows, you can also tune in and listen to him on WGLT FM 103.5 in Normal. You can easily keep up with him on his Facebook page where he posts his upcoming shows with locations and times. Be sure to follow him so you don’t miss out on his originality and easy going sound this summer.
Paul Mitchell
Photo by Tracy Conoboy
Add new ticket stubs to your collection with upcoming fall events at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. LACEY MESCH Features Writer
An incredible show is hitting Bloomington for the second year in a row known as “Paul Mitchell: Shall We Dance on Ice.” This show includes not only music and dancing, but ice skating as well. This will occur at the at 7 p.m. Saturday Dec. 12 at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington. The tickets range from $28 to $78 and you can buy them on www.ticketmaster. com or by phone at (800) 745-3000. If that doesn’t convince you to see the show, it will be hosted by Olympic gold medalists Kristi Yamaguchi and Maksim Chmerkovskiy. The focus of the show is to highlight different genres of dance and the generations in which they were most popular. The show is family friendly and a great way to get together and kick off the holiday season.
Jacob Bryant
Little Big Town Little Big Town will be performing at 8 p.m. Friday Oct. 30 at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. Get your tickets on www.ticketmaster.com to enjoy the award-winning country band’s unique sound. The band consists of four members known as Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Phillip Sweet and Kimberly Schlapman who all contribute to their great success. Their show will be featuring a special guest known as Drake White and the Big Fire in order to ensure a great show. This show will be a part of their tour known as The Pain Killer Tour and you can visit their website at www.littlebigtown.com for more information and pre-sale tickets. Mark your calendars now and go out and support this amazing band to guarantee a great night for you and your friends.
Bryan Adams The Canadian, award-winning singer songwriter Bryan Adams will be putting on a show at 8 p.m. Friday Sept. 18 at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. This show will be part of the musical heavyweights extremely popular tour, known as the Reckless 30th Anniversary Tour. Tickets went on sale July 10 with prices ranging from $35 to $75. You can find your tickets on www. ticketmaster.com. Be sure to get them before they are sold out, it will be a great night filled with countless hits and even better company.
Georgia native Jacob Bryant will be showcasing his love for country music and extreme talent for performing it on Friday Aug. 21 at the Six Strings Club in Bloomington. He will be performing many fan favorites and invites everyone to come help support him to put on a good show. The singer-songwriter is featured on iTunes Recent Country Releases, so be sure to check him out before the show so you can sing along. You can follow Jacob Bryant on his Facebook to hear about upcoming shows, or go to www.jacobbryantmusic.com. Save the date because it is going to be an awesome night.
None Taken None Taken is a rock/hard rock band that will be performing at 9:30 p.m. Saturday Aug. 22 at Catch 22 in Bloomington. The band was born in the heart of Bloomington and consists of five members known as Jeff Wyles, Mark Knuffman, John Weller III, Xena Warrior Princess and Jay Etherton. None Taken will be the main act for the night after an opening by the band Nicotine Poetic. Be sure to keep up with the band on Facebook where they list their upcoming shows and showcase their appreciation for their fans.
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PAGE 10 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
’Bird on the Street: How do you feel the Quad preacher, Brother Jeb? Compiled by BRENT BADER / Staff Writer
“I feel like people can say what they want, but this kind of preaching brings a lot of hate and unpleasant feelings...” Alexis Preston / Freshman undeclared major
“I find them kind of entertaining, but I agree with others who say we should all not gather around them because it feeds into them and gives them a reason to come back.”
“This is a diverse campus and preaching hate about homosexuals or people who are adopted are not neccessary, and if I wanted to hear that I’d go to his mass on Sunday.”
Allie Clink / Sophomore Spanish Education major
Josh May / Freshman English Education major
“As long as you’re not calling out people then it’s fine, but if you start getting in the way and annoying people it crosses a line.” Nick Beaudette / Junior Art Technology major
Start preparing for your future today! Let the Career Center help you today with what you’ll need for tomorrow. Get individualized assistance and support from professional career advisors who can help you with: • Choosing a major or identifying a career path
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VIDETTE HOROSCOPE To sponsor the Vidette Horoscope, call 309.438.8742
Today’s Birthday (08/20/15). Your touch is golden this year. Live frugally and stash the change. A windfall (after 10/13) reveals new educational options (after 10/27). Buy or sell to grow family investments after 3/8. Resolve old upsets (after 3/23). Speak your heart. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Attend to finances for the next two days. Study money, and review your resources. Strategize your budget. Heed a call to action for something you feel passionate about. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Work with a partner today and tomorrow. Get your message across. Stick to
basics. Figure out who will do what. Wait for developments. Consider purchases carefully. Can you make do with what you have? You’re earning brownie points. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Get the facts. Concentrate on a new assignment today and tomorrow. The pace quickens. Navigate temporary confusion or frustration. Make a miraculous discovery and get farther than expected. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Reserve the next two days for fun and romance. How about a picnic in natural beauty? Play beloved activities with beloved people. Don’t buy toys. Save up for a dream.
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Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Time to clean up a mess at home. You’re good at problem solving. Focus on family today and tomorrow. The gentle approach works best. Changes bring confusion. It’s not worth arguing over. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- You’re especially smart today and tomorrow. An imaginative assignment pays well. Invest in music to get your creativity juiced. Avoid annoying someone cranky. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Tap another source of revenue. Today and tomorrow could get quite profitable, although tempers could flare briefly. Make budgets and estimates. Have
a heart-to-heart conversation. The impossible seems accessible. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Lights, camera, action! Use your power responsibly today and tomorrow, to provide for family. Stay objective in a tense situation. Keep passion backstage for now. Dreams reveal your true feelings. Meditate. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Get into a peaceful planning phase for the next two days. Retreat from the world and take things slowly. Try not to break anything. Align your itinerary to your heart. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Confer with allies over the next two days. Your friends are your inspiration.
Committees are especially effective, and provide a wider perspective. Leave nothing to chance. Question obscure concepts. Collaborate. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Focus on your work, and a career rise is possible today and tomorrow. Someone important is watching ... dress well and give your best effort. Confer with a decision-maker. Expect new directives. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today and tomorrow are good for travel and exploration. Save time and money by avoiding an argument. Exciting opportunities present themselves. If you can’t go physically, study your subject online.
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T H E VIDE T T E A P P AVA I L A B L E F O R A P P L E A N D A N D R O I D D E V I C E S
THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 11
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
VOLLEYBALL Continued from Page 12
On the slate for ISU is Long Beach State, Harvard and Rutgers. One week later, the Redbirds will host the Country Financial Redbird Classic. Youngstown State, IUPUI and Toledo will travel to Normal to participate in the round-robin style invite on September 11-12. ISU’s first non-tournament match will come on September 15 when ISU travels to Chicago to square off against the UIC Flames. Last season, the ’Birds swept the Flames at Redbird Arena. The Redbirds will have big shoes to fill after graduating several key players from last season—including MVC Player/Setter of the Year Kaitlyn Early and Libero of the Year
Emily Orrick. But the team welcomes back two starters in Ashley Rosch and Jaelyn Keene, who each garnered First-Team All-MVC honors last season--Rosch being named a first teamer for the third-straight year. Rosch, a senior outside hitter, will attempt to lead her team to a second-straight NCAA Tournament appearance after the school made its first trip there since 2007. She thinks a new approach should be taken for this season. “Last season we had a lot of seniors and so it was an older team,” Rosch said. “This year we have a lot of unexperienced players on the collegiate level. We have become more focused on coming together as one and showing the young players what Illinois State volleyball is all about.”
Archive Photo
Marshaun Coprich (25) and Tre Roberson (5) headline an explosive ISU backfield.
Position breakdown ZACK CARPENTER Sports Editor
The ISU football season begins on Sept. 5 when the Redbirds will face the Iowa Hawkeyes on the road at Kinnick Stadium. Leading up to the game, we will break down the roster position by position. We start off with quarterbacks and running backs, which feature two of the most talented offensive players in the country in quarterback Tre Roberson and running back Marshaun Coprich.
THE CAST (QB) Tre Roberson (Sr.), Jake Kolbe (R-Fr.), Hasan MuhammadRogers (Fr.), DeMarco Washington (Fr.) (RB) Marshaun Coprich (Sr.), Jamal Towns (Jr.), George Moreira (Fr.), James Graham (So.), DeMarco Corbin (Fr.)
KEY NUMBER The number 30 is the key stat for two reasons. No. 1: It is the number of passing touchdowns Roberson tossed in 2014 to set a single-season program record. No. 2: Coprich said his main individual goal this year is to rush for 30 touchdowns—not far-fetched considering he punched the ball in 27 times last season.
“I want to rush for 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns, that’s my expectation,” Coprich said. “I’m setting myself to a high standard because if you’re not getting better, you’re getting worse.”
FOR STARTERS (QB) The quarterback and running back positions are the two most stable positions on offense this season with Roberson and Coprich leading the way. Roberson is hoping to build on his record-setting season by leading the team to a national title, and has said he has no individual goals for himself. The only thing he cares about is winning and leading this team—which is exactly what you want from your starting quarterback. (RB) The Redbirds have arguably the best running back in FCS in Coprich, but this year they hope to be able to decrease the immense workload he saw in 2014. The senior had 370 carries for 2,274 yards—both No. 1 in FCS. While those are great numbers, eventually that stress and workload can take a toll on the body—especially the legs toward the tail end of the season. Coprich will still be expected to see plenty of carries per game, but the Redbird coaching staff would like to be able to use
him a little less to keep him fresh for a deep playoff run.
BACKUP PLAN (QB) If Roberson goes down all is not completely lost. Yes, the quarterback is one of the best in the FCS, but the ’Birds have a talented backup in Kolbe, who has shown off more arm strength than Roberson throughout training camp. Kolbe is still a raw talent and has much to improve on, but if injuries occur it will be far from time to throw in the towel for the Redbirds. (RB) The reason the offense might be able to lessen Coprich’s carries is the potential emergence of Towns. Although standing at just 5’6’’, Towns can flat-out fly. He is one of the fastest players on the team and the offense will be able to get him in open space where he can use his agility and shiftiness to make defenders miss.
BOTTOM LINE One of the core reasons that expectations are so high in Normal is because of Roberson and Coprich. Their return means the return of an offense that could be just as prolific this year as it was in 2014.
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Sports
PAGE 12 | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2015
Same face. New place.
Photo courtesy of Hoosier Huddle
Photo courtesy of media relations
Photo courtesy of media relations
David Kenney (Indiana), La’Darius Newbold (Texas Tech) and Ryon’e Winters (Wyoming) are a handful of the Division-I transfers hoping to make a significant impact for the Redbirds in 2015.
Family atmosphere has led to influx of Division-I talent for Redbird football program ZACK CARPENTER Sports Editor
Restock. Recharge. Reload. Whatever words you want to use, the same information has become abundantly clear. The ISU football program seems to consistently stockpile high-end talent in the form of Division-I transfers. Of course, transfers play a role in many FCS programs across the country. But for the Redbirds, they have become a staple of success. Last year, it was David Perkins (Ohio State) and Tre Roberson
(Indiana) who made a huge impact for the ’Birds. Perkins, a defensive end, finished 2014 with 64 tackles and ranked second on the team with eight sacks. As for the quarterback, Roberson, he was named Missouri Valley Football Conference Newcomer of the Year last year in a season when he set school single-season records for passing touchdowns (30) and total offensive yards (4,250). This year, the laundry list of D-I players includes Stephen Amoako (Oregon), David Kenney (Indiana), La’Darius Newbold (Texas Tech),
Reggie Spearman (Iowa) and Ryon’e Winters (Wyoming). It is somewhat rare for an FCS team to have so much success with D-I transfers. For whatever reason—be it ego, selfishness or lack of motivation—many of the top talents who decide to continue their careers at the lower level of competition end up not working out. But, for the most part, this is not the case at ISU. Here, an environment has been created—on the field and in the locker room—where there are no egos, just football players. And really, a family. Brothers. “Being in this locker room [com-
pared to Indiana’s] is more tightknit,” Roberson said. “Everyone is pretty much friends. Everyone has that attitude where they’re not going to let each other down, which is why I like being here. No one has an ego where they think they’re too good for anyone else.” Roberson’s sentiment is shared by the other players who have decided to continue their careers at Hancock Stadium. “It’s not like a business, it’s more like a family here,” Kenney said. Newbold is a backer of the notion that everything on the field is the same anywhere you go—whether in
an environment like the cutthroat heat of Lubbock, Texas or the bipolar weather of Normal , “football is football,” according to the defensive back. Rather, it is the off-the-field characteristics of this place that make up the biggest differences. “I love my new teammates. They’re some of the best guys [I know],” Newbold said. “Coming from Texas Tech, I have some friends there, but from day one when I came in, everybody had open arms. It’s really a family unit. We are one unit. One team.”
Tolentino: Attendance needs big boost MY VIEW JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor
Y
ear in and year out, ISU produces high quality student athletes. With such a star-studded and decorated program, ISU athletics deserves a more dedicated fan base, and, more specifically, a stronger involvement from the student body. All-American athletes step onto the field at Hancock Stadium and onto Doug Collins Court at Redbird Arena and, for the most part, go unnoticed by their fellow peers and classmates. The average attendance numbers here at ISU are simply pathetic and should be improved dramatically to support our nationally recognized athletes. ISU is considered one of the top tier mid-major programs in the country. We produce student athletes ready to compete on a national scale every season. These athletes need the support of our student community. Just this past year, the women’s soccer team hosted the Missouri Valley Conference Championship for the first time ever and clinched its fourth consecutive title…in front of a lousy attendance of 465. The ISU basketball program amassed 22 victories last year: the team’s most wins since 2009-10. One of the most athletic and exciting
teams in the Valley, ISU managed to average 5,483 fans at Redbird Arena last season, just over 53 percent full with a capacity of 10,200. The football team had a recordbreaking season, reaching the FCS National Championship in Frisco, Texas. On their road to success, the ’Birds hosted UNI in the FCS playoffs. With a capacity of over 20,000, only 5,575 fans filled the bleachers at Hancock Stadium. A team that reached the national championship could only fill 41.6 percent of its stadium. Not even half full. These numbers are pitiful. A controversial issue in the days leading up to the playoff game against UNI was the fact that students were forced to leave their dorms the day of the playoff game, while some even had to leave the day before. As a public university with a successful athletics program, we need the full support of our administration and students alike. Fans who have been consistently attending games consist of loyal family members, alumni and a select amount of students. ISU student attendance needs boosting, now. With a full time enrollment of over 20,615, ISU is one of the larger universities in the state. Boasting one of the bigger enrollment numbers in Illinois, having so few amounts of fans show up to some of the most important games in the school’s history displays the huge non-participation of the student body. I applaud the efforts of Red Alert and its efforts to increase student involvement within athletics. The
promotional activities leading up to home games are key to upping ISU attendance numbers. The Duffy Bass Field record-breaking crowd of 1,977 fans at the U of I game on April 14 is proof the school can produce ceiling-high attendance numbers. However, much more must be done. On and off the field, athletes put in countless hours of work on a daily basis. Our student athletes are the face of our university and represent ISU’s pride. The lack of student awareness and participation is a huge detriment to the attendance of ISU home games. Numerous ISU athletes have stated they perform better with a higher fan turnout. “We would be nothing without our fans,” Dontae McCoy, former ISU safety, said. “When they come out, it gets us more amped and excited to go out there and put on a good show. We love the intensity [fans] bring and we feed off of their energy.” Every student pays big money to attend school, so while we’re here we might as well be involved. The scarcity of student attendance and participation is deeply disappointing. This needs to change for the overall betterment of the athletic department and the university as a whole. Josh Tolentino is a senior journalism major. Follow him on Twitter @JCTSports. Email him at jtolent@ilstu.edu.
Photo courtesy of media relations
Jaelyn Keene will help lead the Redbirds in the 2015 season.
Volleyball sets eyes toward 2015 JASON KLAER Sports Reporter
Beginning in late August, the ISU volleyball team will be participating in matches for the first time since its record 2014 season. After setting a school record for consecutive wins (23) and becoming just the third team in the Missouri Valley Conference history to go undefeated in league play (27-6, 18-0 MVC), the ’Birds will look to continue their success from last season, which included a trip to the second round of the NCAA Volleyball Tournament. First, the team will travel to Coral Gables, Fla. to take on a trio of teams in the Hurricane Invitational. On Friday, Aug. 28, the ’Birds will take on host school the University of Miami Hurricanes in a rematch of a 2012 contest in which ISU defeated
the ’Canes, 3-1 in Redbird Arena. The following day, there will be a doubleheader played against the Wildcats of Kansas State in the morning followed by Florida A&M at 4:30 p.m. Head coach Melissa Myers likes how the high-caliber competition will test them right out of the gate in the new season. “Both Kansas State and Miami come from great conferences. We like to schedule teams like this in our non-conference schedule,” Myers said. “It is the best preparation for us to get ready for the Valley.” Like ISU, both teams advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. On Labor Day weekend, the ’Birds will be in Cambridge, Mass. to compete in the Harvard Invitational. See VOLLEYBALL on Page 11