THE ’BIRD Visibility for all INSIDE: Search begins for women’s
THE VIDETTE PRESENTS
basketball coach, Sports, page 8 Athletic Director Larry Lyons (left)
THURSDAY, THURSDAY,AUGUST MARCH 30, 12, 2017 Vol. Vol. 129 129// No. No. 00 51
videtteonline
Annual drag show to raise money for CIPHC CASSIE MCNEILL News Reporter | @165_Cassie1
C
oninciding with International Trans Day of Visibility, Illinois State University’s 19th annual Charity Drag Show is set to kick off Friday in the Brown Ballroom of the Bone Student Center. The event will start at 7 p.m. and costs $5 for ISU students and $10 for non-students. Tickets can be purchased at the Braden Box Office or Ticketmaster with an online fee. The fundraising event is partnered with the Central Illinois Pride Health Center (CIPHC), which promotes the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community of Central Illinois without judgment or discrimination. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the CIPHC “Our goal is to get whatever donations we can. Most of the money will go to homeless youth of the LGBTQ+ community,” CIPHC Executive Director Len Meyer said. Meyer founded the organization in May 2015 and has since been a big advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. “I have always been a supporter of the drag show for some time as a person of the community. I think it is a great opportunity to give students a chance to get involved and get exposure of the cause,” Meyer said. The show will consist of multiple drag performances from professional drag queens, kings and royalty as well as student performers. It will be hosted by Sharon ShareAlike and feature Monica Beverly Hillz from Rupaul’s Drag Race. The show is sponsored by ISU Pride, the university’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer registered student organization. “The community has been a great support of the show and our cause. It is also great to see all the students supporting it too,” Meyer said. Although, this is the organization’s first time working with the drag show, it is not Meyer’s first time attending. Meyer plans to attend Friday’s show.
Check out the related photo gallery tomorrow at videtteonline.com Photograph from last year’s drag show by Emma Horath | Vidette Senior Photographer
Friday is International Transgender Day of Visibility, which celebrates transgender people and raises awareness of discrimination faced by the LGBTQ+ community
PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE
Magic School Bus shifts to nonprofit for student safety
STAFF LIST Editor in Chief
Ave Rio
News Editors
Ema Sasic Mary Cullen Features Editor
Deb Bethel
Sports Editors
Josh Tolentino Beth Geistlinger
Photo Editors
Jenna Kadziulis Kelly McNamara Night Editors
Anya Malley Brigid Ackerman Social Media Manager
Bret Farrell
Art Director
Nicholas Buegel
Ad Sales Manager
Kevin Rizzo Ad Production Manager
Evan Morris Business Manager
Zach Oldenburg Office Manager
Maddillon Kenney Marketing Team Manager
Charlie Goodyear
Web Editor
Caleb Boma
Business Adviser
Madeline Smith
General Manager
John Plevka
DIRECTORY EDITOR 309.438.8745 ADVERTISING 309.438.8742 BUSINESS 309.438.5929 CLASSIFIEDS 309.438.7685 NEWS 309.438.2882 FEATURES 309.438.8746 SPORTS 309.438.3723 FACSIMILE 309.438.5211
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
Actor Gary Cole to speak at Fine Arts commencement on May 13
ANDREW DOUGHERTY News Reporter | @addough
forward because it gives students safe rides to and from the bars.” “It became pretty greedy downtown between Almost every Illinois State University stu- all of the party buses. A few years ago when they dent over the age of 21 has heard of the Magic had a pay-it-forward system and had people pay School Bus, and no not the book, but the col- for rides for students, the local community and orful, music blasting, entertaining bus that students alike started reacting positively to the safely takes students to the bars in downtown Magic School Bus,” he said. “There was no greed Bloomington. or ill will between the different companies, the Lee Eutsey, the founder and owner of the whole thing was a humanitarian effort but Magic School Bus, started this party-oriented things changed downtown and I had to rethink bus in December of 2007. my business, so I changed it to a nonprofit and Eutsey was a taxi driver prior to starting wanted it to be donation based.” his business. Seeing other vans take students Eutsey said he wanted to drain the greed dow ntow n, swamp haphe thought p e n i n g he could do between the one better, so different he won a bid companies. in Ohio for a An example school bus and of this “greed” outfitted it with was when high-definition another comTVs, a sound pany called the system and local police to other high tech stop the Magic equipment that School Bus students could from adverenjoy. tising on the Eutsey is sidewalk. working on By making Ali Rasper | Vidette Photographer the attaining Magic an IRS tax- Lee Eutsey, owner of the Magic School Bus, strives to keep School Bus a students safe while providing fun when going to downtown exempt status nonprofit busiBloomington. for his comness, Eutsey pany and is also working on getting a website believes it will bring the Bloomington-Normal set up with a donaation page so riders can community together to make sure that students pay it forward. He is personally financing the get home safe at night. Magic School Bus, paying for drivers and main“I love the Magic School Bus. I’ve had such a tenance. So far, he has broken even in profits. fun time every time I’ve taken it downtown and He was the first person to bring a school bus all of my friends can agree on that,” ISU student and transform it into a party bus to take stu- Jessica Ley said. “It saves us so much money on dents downtown. traveling downtown and the fact that it takes us “We pick up students on the weekends who back to our apartment complex is great.” want to go downtown. It’s a party bus atmoEutsey hopes to get the same feel the comsphere and we take scores of people downtown, munity felt after the accident with Michael wait for the bar rush and then bring them back Collins, an ISU student who was hit and killed home safely,” Eutsey said. by a drunk driver in 2014. This tragedy started During March Madness, the Magic School the Twitter hashtag #mcstrongpayitforward, Bus had given between $1,500 and $2,000 in which Lee explained brought the Bloomingtonfree rides for students. Normal community together. The free rides are sporadic at this point, so Eutsey saw the accident after it had occurred that some profit is made, but usually students and his flashlights were the first to illuminate are only charged $3, which is much cheaper the scene before the police arrived. than taking an Uber or taxi. “The community and I want this kind of When Eutsey’s company does attain non- brotherhood again, and that is my goal with profit status, he explained he does “expect making the Magic School Bus a donation based students and community members to pay it ride,” he said.
University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890
Steppenwolf Theatre, as well as been part of the original London cast of “August: Osage County.” Actor Gary Cole will speak at School of Theatre and Dance this year’s Illinois State Univer- Director Janet Wilson said she sity College of Fine Arts spring anticipates a moving speech from commencement 7 p.m. May 13 in Cole. Braden Auditorium in the Bone “Faculty and staff in the School Student Center. of Theatre and Dance selected Known for “Pineapple Express,” Gary Cole to serve as the com“Talladega Nights: The Ballad of mencement speaker because of Ricky Bobby” and HBO’s political his stellar body of work on stage, comedy “Veep,” Cole graduated film, and television,” Wilson said. from ISU in 1977, majoring in “Based on a previous visit with theatre. Gary a number of years Business Administraago, we believe that he will tive Associate for the provide an inspirational College of Fine Arts Stephspeech to the graduates of anie Ringle said they wish the College of Fine Arts.” to provide graduating Cole moved to Los Angestudents a sense of inspiles in the 1980s and began ration at commencement. his career in television “O u r t rad it ion of on the NBC mini-series Gary Cole alumni commencement “Fatal Vision.” Cole’s other speakers began in 2001 television credits include with Lorenzo Pace,” Ringle said. “The Good Wife,” “The West “While the other colleges have Wing,” “Entourage” and “Ameristudent speakers, the College of can Gothic.” He has also done Fine Arts has always felt that our voice work for multiple animated alumni could best provide the programs, including “Family Guy” kind of inspiration that we wanted and “Kim Possible.” to have at commencement.” Cole received a Primetime Cole grew up in the Chicago Emmy Award nomination in 2014 suburb of Rolling Meadows and and several Screen Actors Guild began his acting career in 1985 Awards nominations for his work with the Steppenwolf Theatre on “Veep.” Company, where he is still a For more information on this member of the Ensemble. year’s College of Fine Arts comCole has since appeared in mencement, visit Graduation multiple productions at the Services or call (309) 438-2836.
COUPON
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 College Press Association. Subscriptions are available by mail to anywhere in the United States for $150 per calendar year. © The Vidette 2017
KEVIN SCHWALLER Senior News Reporter | @kevschwa
$
8.99
HAIRCUT CAMPUS: Main St Between Mcdonalds & Buff. Wild Wings NORMAL EAST: Veterans Parkway in front of Walmart NORMAL NORTH: Main & Raab By Moe's and new Schnucks
WALK RIGHT IN! Expires 5/20/2017
COUPON
VID899
Sign with us today!
classactrealty.com 309-454-2960
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
LGBTQ+ groups share importance of International Trans Day of Visibility Prairie Pride Coalition, Pride stress understanding, learning about transgender issues
I
nternational Transgender Day of Visibility is Friday, and is a worldwide holiday dedicated to celebrating the transgender community while also raising awareness for issues present in the lives of these individuals. “This is a day that is set aside to recognize the rights and visibility of the trans-community,” Dave Bentlin, Board of Directors member for the BloomingtonNormal Prairie Pride Coalition, said. “It brings attention to issues that are important to the transgender community and to get people to start thinking about the issues that affect them.” The Prairie Pride Coalition (PPC) is an independent, nonprofit organization that has been in the Bloomington-Normal community for the last six years. The PPC sponsors activities and events such as the annual Pride Picnic during the summer. The PPC also helps with adoption and foster options for
LGBTQ+ community members. “We also want to help bring about solutions that the transgender community faces in our city,” Bentlin said. In addition to its advocacy work, the PPC also passes along information on bills to its members to encourage legislators to help bring about equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Bentlin explained that “as members of the local community become more educated about transgender issues, including the issues they face, members of the local community here are becoming more open in about it in Bloomington.” Although the PPC is a community organization, Bentlin
Ian Lopez, junior general biology major, is a transgender student who has received an immense amount of support from faculty and staff members. “I made my transition from female to male in the fall of 2014 as a freshman,” Lopez said. “I was a little foggy on my gender identity until I went to the Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Allied College Conference (MBLGTACC) in Chicago.” The MBLGTACC is hosted throughIllustration by Nicholas Buegel | Vidette Art Director out the Midwest region and every year explained that the organization a different university hosts it. feels that Illinois State Univer“I’ve had a lot of support from sity and Illinois Wesleyan are a staff members to make sure part of it as well.
my name was changed before I showed up to class and worked with the [Student Affairs I.T.] to get my ULID changed,” Lopez added. Lopez has said that he has not faced any discrimination at ISU, but struggles with the fact that some professors in his major are not as knowledgeable about the transgender community. “It’s the biology professors in particular that I’ve had personal struggles with. They don’t seem to be familiar with the specifics of the intersex community,” Lopez explained. Andrew Jacobs, the co-president of Pride at Illinois State stated that transgender and gender variant community are welcome to come to Pride meetings, which take place 7 p.m. every Wednesday in the LGBT/Queer Studies and Services Building. The League of Extraordinary Genders, although not an RSO, is also another advocacy and support group for transgender students.
ANDREW DOUGHERTY | News Reporter | @addough
State considers marijuana legalization
Randall Benton | Sacramento Bee | TNS
A bill would allow residents 21 and older to possess, grow or buy up to an ounce of marijuana and license businesses to sell marijuana products.
ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIALS!*
$2 Domestic Bottles $3 J.P. Wisers Rye Whiskey $3 Sailor Jerry Lunch Special: Ham & Cheese $3 Jack Daniels $2.50 Keeper Cup $2.75 Corona and Corona Lite Lunch Special: Cod Sandwich
Patio Open & Margarita Specials Everyday! 102 N. Linden St. | 309.452.0699
½ OFF SERVICE FEE Bring this coupon at signing, and we will take ½ off your service fee.
37
$
VA L U E 17
Rent SAMI.
$5 Bud Family Pitchers $4 Vodka & Redbull $4 Bombs Lunch Special: Pork Tenderloin
20
Best Value. Great Locations.
$2 Domestic Longnecks $3 Rail Calls $3 Imports and Micro Brews Lunch Special: Reuben $1 Tacos (3pm-9pm)
5/
marijuana are Alaska, California, Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Cassidy, along with fellow Chicago Democrat Sen. Heather Steans, anticipates having multiple conversations with state lawmakers as well as the public before the Illinois General Assembly votes on the bill. They have until May 31 to vote.
$5 Domestic Pitchers $3 Fireball Lunch Special: Ribeye Steak Sandwich
EXP .5 /1
Illinois lawmakers want to increase state revenue by legalizing marijuana. Two state lawmakers introduced the Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act Mar. 22 that would allow residents 21 and older to possess, grow or buy up to an ounce (28 grams) of marijuana and license businesses to sell marijuana products. State Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago), who cosponsored a 2014 legalization of medical marijuana in the state, is sponsoring the proposal in the House. She noted other states that legalized marijuana have seen an economic boost from increased tax revenue and that it could be beneficial for Illinois to jump on board. “We’re talking about all sorts of ways of raising revenue,” Cassidy told the Associated Press. “We might as well be talking about this, too.” Illinois already allows restricted use of marijuana for medical purposes. The state also passed the decriminalization of possession of under 10 grams of marijuana in 2016. The bill proposes taxing marijuana at a rate of $50 per ounce wholesale, plus the state’s standard 6.25 percent sales tax. States that currently allow recreational use of
FRI. THURS. WED. TUES. MON.
KEVIN SCHWALLER Senior News Reporter | @kevschwa
This coupon must be present at signing.
Viewpoint
PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
A petty pardon for the president
T
hese days, it appears a president’s power allows for dishonestly, unnecessary aversion of media and even the ability to claim immunity from a sexual assault lawsuit. Summer Zervos, a former “Apprentice” contestant, came out in October of last year accusing the then-presidential candidate of kissing and groping her without her consent in 2007. At the time, Trump denied the claims on Twitter insisting they were “100% fabricated and made-up charges, pushed strongly by the media and the Clinton Campaign.” Zervos was not the only woman to come out with claims of sexual assault against Trump at the time, which fueled tweets including the following: “Nothing ever happened with any of these women. Totally made up nonsense to steal the election. Nobody has more respect for women than me!” Ironic, considering earlier that same month Trump’s infamous recorded conversation with Billy Bush was released in which the then-candidate’s lasting line was “Grab ‘em by the p----.” At the time of the recording’s
release and throughout the heat of these allegations, public interest was high. By the time Inauguration Day came around, shouts echoed throughout the nation calling for investigation into many of Trump’s actions, including these sexual assault accusations. Zervos officially sued Trump on Jan. 17 for defamation claiming the tweets were “detrimental” to her “reputation, honor
and dignity.” Unfortunately, Zervos and her attorney were too late. Announced this week, Trump’s attorneys stated the supremacy clause of the constitution grants the president immunity from anything that could “distract a President from his public duties to the detriment of not only the President and his office but also the Nation.” In layman’s terms: we’re go-
ing to sweep this one under the rug. In fact, according to a USA TODAY investigation, the administration said “not today” to a whopping 75 lawsuits against Trump — over varying issues —that were still pending as he took office. Seventy-five lawsuits would be a bit of a distraction from the president’s primary job — yes — but certainly there needs
Editorial Cartoon by Ashley Brown | Vidette Editorial Cartoonist
to be an addendum that allows for exceptions in the case of something as serious as sexual assault. The truth is, there is such a thing and it was enacted during the 1997 Clinton v. Jones Supreme Court ruling — a sexual harassment claim against former president Bill Clinton — which set a standard stating presidents are not immune from private litigation while in office. What does Trump say to that? He is simply too busy being president. Using the justices’ note that respect regarding scheduling and other matters should be given considering the burdens of presidential duties, Trump claims immunity from all state court proceedings until after his final day in office. Interestingly enough, Trump would not be the second president to undergo a lawsuit while serving as president. In addition to Clinton, John F. Kennedy also managed to make time to settle his 1960 traffic incident in court. Being a man with over 4,000 lawsuits in the past four decades according to USA TODAY, the man should be familiar enough with the process to do a little juggling.
Editorial written by MARY CULLEN, 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.
GO TO VIDETTEONLINE.COM TO VOTE!
ONLINE POLL
?
Should Trump be immune from the sexual assault lawsuit?
Trump makes America golf again? MY VIEW KEVIN SCHWALLER | Columnist Presidential travels entail both tremendous expense and headaches. But a president’s occasional escape to a tropical island or a golf course is often time well spent, and we pay for it with little fuss. In case you missed it, President Trump was at one of his golf courses again over the weekend. However, this actually marks the 13th visit to one since taking office in January as well as the eighth consecutive weekend he has spent at properties with “Trump” in the name. Over the last eight years, conservatives constantly complained about former-President Obama’s
vacations and rounds on the course. Trump is no stranger to criticizing Obama’s golf outings; Trump eviscerated him for his costly excursions in numerous tweets. And despite his campaign declaration that “I would rarely leave the White House because there’s so much work to be done,” Trump has spent nearly every weekend of his presidency on a golf course. The right-wing watchdog group Judicial Watch noted Obama’s vacations cost over $90 million within his eight years in office. The same outlet estimated that Trump has spent over $10 million within his first month alone. It projects that at this rate, Trump’s vacations will far exceed Obama’s travels. Trump, the king of golf that he is, even offered Obama “free lifetime golf at any one of my courses” if the president would resign immediately back in 2014. Trump’s staffers have been
rather reluctant to discuss his golf outings, and many details of his excursions have instead come from social media. White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer defended the president, arguing he has not always participated in playing the sport while at the golf course. He said the president recently held a “mini cabinet meeting” at his club in Virginia. “On a couple of occasions he’s actually conducted meetings there, he’s actually had phone calls, so just because he heads there doesn’t mean that that’s what’s happening,” Spicer said. Um, Mr. President? Can’t you just have meetings at the, you know, White House? I’m no expert, but I have a feeling it would probably be cheaper for them to meet him in Washington, D.C., in the house that comes with the job. But, alas, the president is never there. While Trump would like to
REDBIRD RUMBLE or FUMBLE Redbird Rumble: To Illinois State University’s Board
of Trustees for reccommending to freeze tuition and room and board next year, despite the uncertainty of the state budget.
cut funding for the arts, I would like to cut funding for his excessive vacationing. If he simply cut back a little on some of his excursions, which POLITICO reports cost roughly $3 million, I guarantee there would be less worry about budget cuts. “I’m really rich,” he said when he announced his bid for the White House. “I’ve made billions of billions of dollars making deals all over the world,” he said at a presidential debate. There is no denying Trump is rich. We get it. He doesn’t let us forget it. So, why exactly can’t he pay for his plethora of outings himself? As stated, we’ve always paid for the president and his family’s vacations. But also, as stated, Trump is looking to spend much more money on traveling than Obama. And is that necessary? No. We don’t know exactly how wealthy Trump is, for he has yet
to release his tax returns, but we do know he is one of, if not the wealthiest president in American history. The president, like anyone else, is entitled to some down time. I’m not saying he should be confined to a desk doing presidential things all day and night, but Trump has piggy-backed on the anti-Obama Republican rhetoric since (what seems like) the dawn of time, and is now wanting to cut funding for things when his outings are already racking up in expenses. There’s a lot about Trump’s presidency that is unusual. But he needs to take responsibility for the sake of taxpayers, let alone the entire country. Kevin Schwaller is a news reporter and columnist for The Vidette. He can be reached at vidette_kschwal@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @kevschwa.
Compiled by The Vidette Editorial Board
Redbird Fumble: To the mumps outbreak at Illinois
State University. At least three cases of mumps have been confirmed in the past few days.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
Speed limit change expected on Fox Creek DYLAN STEVENS News Reporter | @dkstevens12
The Bloomington City Council plans to lower the speed limit for Fox Creek Road. This is due to the fact that there have been several reports by local residents along Fox Creek. These reports regard several safety concerns with the current speed limit at 40 mph. What has made the community uneasy is how there have been three crashes in the last three years on Fox Creek alone. Along with the concerns about the curves in the road, there are a number of driveways that connect to Fox Creek, two elementary schools and a youth sports field. They also highlighted that there are golf carts crossing this street to get to the course. Along with the upcoming road improvements, they anticipate an increase in the number of cyclists and pedestrians using this street. Jim Karch, director of Public Works, showed his concern for the people affected by the 40 mph speed limit. Karch pointed out that those crashes that have been reported were related to distracted driving and weather, not the speed limit. However, he is satisfied with lowering the speed limit for the community.
Illinois expands state’s cybersecurity plan CLAIRE WEINZIERL News Reporter | @ClaireWeinzierl
Gov. Bruce Rauner recently launched a new cybersecurity plan for Illinois. The plan involves updating the
speed again. “Residents reported their confusion at the number of 30 mph advisory signs that are posted along this portion of the street, in order to accommodate golf cart crossings. Residents have noted that there are many 30 mph ‘advisory’ signs that makes people think the speed limit is already at 30,” Schmidt said. “If you drive along this section of road, you see 40 mph sign followed almost immediately by a 30 mph advisory sign — the message is confusing.”
SUMMER SESSIONS START MAY 22 AND JUNE 5.
Kelly McNamara | Vidette Photo Editor
With three accidents in the last three years on Fox Creek, the Bloomington City Council plans to lower the speed limit to 30 mph. “City staff has reviewed the request and determined that the speed limit can be lowered to 30 mph instead of the current 40 mph based on professional traffic standards,” he said. “The staff recommendation takes into account several factors when deciding to alter a speed limit zone, such as the number of driveways, crashes and on-street parking.” Karen Schmidt, Ward 6 alderman, was part of the majority of the council that wanted to reduce the speed limit. She values the overall safety of
the people of Bloomington-Normal and wants to help makes the roads safe for all road users, not just individuals in vehicles. Schmidt also advocated for an idea of establishing a consistent speed limit along more of Fox Creek because it fluctuates frequently. This is because there is a senior living facility, an active labor union hall and many retail shops that are busy along this portion of the road. The changes would help extinguish issues that may arise later on with
state’s current computer infrastructure and modernizing it to defend against cyber attacks according to the Department of Innovation and Technology’s (DoIT) Chief Information Security Officer Kirk Lonbom. Lonbom also said that they will be working to prevent attacks and raise awareness among end users on what they can do to keep information secure.
“One single identity theft could cost one of our citizens anywhere between $1,300 and $7,000 and the risk to the state in terms of breach response, breach costs and breach notification are things that we have to protect,” Lonbom said in an interview with WJBC.
Continue reading this online.
videtteonline.com/article
Schmidt wanted to make note of the council calling for a public traffic advisory council that includes not just their road engineers but citizens as well. The council believes it does not need to get involved with every speed limit change in town and having more transparency about traffic issues is beneficial overall. Within the next couple meetings, the council will decide on the speed limit, along discussing of possibly lowering other parts of Fox Creek to 30 mph.
Start planning your summer now at harpercollege.edu/summer 7 14
21
The Vidette
CROSSWORD
Across 1 “Yeah, sure!” 6 Some CPAs and MBAs 10 __ bean 14 What choir members have to carry 15 Lined up, with “in” 16 2001 Winslet/ Dench title role 17 Hero makers 18 Window shopper’s buy 19 Bottle part 20 Double-helix molecules 21 Stat for which Babe Ruth’s 457 is the single-season record 23 Site of many Ansel Adams works 25 Online chortle 26 Wide awake 28 Joan __ By Richard F. Mausser 32 Aplenty Down 36 Carmelite, perhaps 1 Irrigated grain field 38 Muffin topper 2 Courtroom figure 39 What the groups of 3 Hippy dances? circled letters graphi4 Italian cookie cally represent flavoring 42 Labyrinth 5 Filmmaker Craven 43 Plop down 6 Holly Golightly’s 44 Legal scholar creator 45 “Obsessable se7 Place for annual ries” movie channel pledging 47 What “two” 8 Chaplin of “Game of meant to Paul Revere Thrones” 49 Bow __ 9 Balloon 51 Billboard charts 10 Elite Eight 56 Tart vodka survivors 31 COLA component cocktails 11 War god 32 69-Across holders 60 Petunia part 12 Target of many a 33 Vet school subj. 61 Greenish blue New Year’s resolution 34 Joel’s “Cabaret” 62 Use the escalator, 13 Poses co-star about half the time 21 Floor installers 35 Hinted-at hidden 63 Plant swelling 22 Savior of Scout meanings 64 What a stet cancels and Jem, in “To Kill a 37 AFC East team 65 Alternatively Mockingbird” 40 Sis or bro 66 Cheap mags 24 Filly, eventually 41 Grade of excel67 Old jet-set jets 27 Mild rebuke lence: Abbr. 68 Bob or dog attach29 End of a ball 46 Cab alternative ment game? 48 Opposite of 69 Canines, e.g. 30 Great American guzzled Ball Park team
PLEASE VISIT VIDETTEONLINE. COM TO SEE THE ANSWERS TO THIS PUZZLE
Burger Baskets:
50 Cube’s dozen 52 Expectant mom’s words 53 Inscribed pillar 54 Lead on 55 Blockbuster 56 Some TV screens 57 They work better when they focus 58 Dairy Queen order 59 Lucky streak 63 Skillful, facetiously
21 & Over After 6 pm
$2.00 Single Basket $3.50 Double Basket Mon-Fri 5 pm - 9pm Sunday 12pm - 6pm
102 S. Linden St. Normal, IL 61761 (309) 452-7393
THURSDAY
SATURDAY
$1.25 Well & UV Flavors $1.50 Coors Lt & Miller Family Bottles $2.50 Red Bull & Vodka
$2.00 20oz Rolling Rock $2.50 Stoli Saturday $2.50 20oz Bud Family Draft
FRIDAY
SUNDAY
$1.75 20oz Bud Family Draft $2.50 Fireball Friday $3.00 Top Shelf Rum
$2.00 Bloody Mary $2.00 Well & UV Flavors $2.00 20oz Bud Family Draft $2.50 Seagram’s 7 Sunday
BAR & GRILL
Features
PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
Support hockey, charities and get a laugh this weekend
1
Pride drag show
7 p.m. Friday, ISU’s PRIDE will host the 19th annual drag show in the Brown Ballroom. Sharon ShareALike will yet again host the night, and the night will feature Monica Beverly Hillz, among ISU and area queens. General admission tickets are $10, and with a student ID student tickets are $5.
Renowned multimedia artist William Cordova gave a lecture at the University Galleries for the visiting artist lecture series. Natalie Stuckslager Staff Photographer
Cordova captivates Galleries DEBORAH BETHEL Features Editor | @thedebbethel
A
s part of the visiting artist lecture series through the School of Art and the College of Fine Arts, world-renowned interdisciplinary cultural practitioner William Cordova spoke to art students and lovers alike on his experiences and influences of his artwork Wednesday at the University Galleries. Born in Lima, Peru, he holds on to his cultural heritage proudly. He exhibited a photo of his family from 1942 before beginning his lecture. He credits not only his international upbringing to his inspirations behind his art, but also his many residencies he has taken since graduating with his BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1996 and an M.F.A. from Yale University in 2004 – ten years of residencies to be exact. “I’ve done residencies because they give me opportunities to work on art without obligations outside of the art world,” Cordova told the audience. “It’s beyond liking to do art, it’s an obsession.” Through these experiences, he then reimagines
views art. He especially takes pride in his personal, unique touches he adds to his pieces; the preparation for his replica of the Millennium Falcon involved ordering pieces of wood from areas such as Algeria, Spain and the Philippines a year and a half in advance of working on the project. By using these different woods, he added that it “grounds (his) work and makes it more special.” On the long-term resident artists’ seminars, personal critiques and lectures, Tyler Lotz, coordinator of visiting artists with the School of Art, said that Courtesy ilstu.edu “the influence is incredible. It’s a really valuable part of our program in the Cordova’s Millennium Falcon replica, using woods from multiple regions, represents his personal touch in his art. School of Art.” Through his travels, Cordova has been able to meet and study under authors and and reinvents the cite-specific histories through mixed multimedia works of drawings, sculptures, artists that further inspire his creations. “(Art) is a very personal, very ritualistic experience for me photography, installations and more. During the lecture, he shared that his research- ... You start seeing the world differently; the more based work during his residencies captures information you have, the more your perception impressions of the sites’ pasts while questioning and perspective of the world around you comand reevaluating how popular culture and media pletely changes for the better.”
Love never dies
Sophomore Anthony Braglia’s tragedy touches thousands STUART STALTER Features Reporter | @VidetteStuS
Research published in “American Cancer Society Journal” projects almost 1.7 million cases of cancer in 2017. Breast cancer ranks fourth among specific types with nearly 41,000 estimated fatalities. On Oct. 2, 2013, breast cancer ended the life of beloved wife and mother of two Heidi Braglia. Heidi’s son, sophomore Illinois State University marketing major Anthony Braglia, knew his mother wanted him to live productively. Thus, he enlisted in the war against breast cancer. “I have to wait my whole life to see her again, but there is one thing I can do,” Braglia said. “I can take what she taught me in the 16 years we had together and make something of it.” That “something” became successful fundraising. Braglia spread his story through social media, encouraging donations. Eventually, great assistance came from ISU’s fraternity Sigma Nu chapter Theta Rho. Braglia serves as campus president of Theta Rho. Using Sigma Nu’s Twitter account, fraternity brothers tweeted Braglia’s story
with a special promise. That promise meant for every retweet, Sigma Nu donated one dollar to the annual Susan G. Komen Chicagoland Mother’s Day Race for the Cure. Amazingly, the tweet received 3,600 retweets and over 300,000 views in three days. Beyond Twitter, Kyle Diehl, one of Theta Rho’s founders, raised donations among Sigma Nu alumni. Sigma Nu also contacted local businesses for assistance. “I had 75 men backing me up immediately,” Braglia said. Braglia and Sigma Tiffany Morrison | Staff Photographer Nu’s efforts received rec- Anthony Braglia, a member of Sigma Nu, honored his mother and all those lost or ognition from Susan G. fighting cancer by raising over $100,000 for Susan G. Komen. Komen. Komen’s Chicago chapter distinguished when it comes to spreading mes- Komen continues helping Braglia’s Braglia as one of 20 Chicago More sages about important causes,” cause by sending emails while raisThan Pink Heroes. Gordon said. “When communities ing awareness online. Thus far, Names honoring Braglia include see a heartfelt post about someone the upcoming race amassed over Chicago Executive Director of they care about, they are instantly $101,000. The amount increases Susan G. Komen Bonnie Gordon. able to engage with that person and every day. Gordon knows this story showwork to reach a common goal.” Despite already raising thoucases social media’s importance in Komen will formally honor sands, Braglia plans to donate achieving Komen’s mission: saving Braglia at this year’s Chicago- yearly and continue fundraising lives. land Mother’s Day Race for the efforts with Susan G. Komen and “Social media is so powerful Cure May 14 at Montrose Harbor. Sigma Nu.
Space Jam
2
Heartland Community College will be hosting an event where participants get to use a space simulator. The event will combine space and comedy in the spirit of April Fool’s Day. The show starts at 6 p.m. Saturday at Heartland. Tickets cost $20 per person.
3
Bloomington Thunder Zoo Night Miller Park
Zoo will be holding a special night at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum when the Bloomington Thunder take on the Madison Capitals. Attendees of the game will have a chance to interact with some zoo animals during the game. The game will be at 7 p.m. Saturday. A ticket from the game can also be used for free attendance to zoo the next day. Tickets for the game range from $10-$20.
Choose to Shine Down Syndrome Fashion Show
4
ISU is hosting an event Sunday that allows people with Down syndrome to walk the runway. The proceeds from the event will go to Central Illinois Down Syndrome Organization. The show begins at 1 p.m. and tickets cost $15 for adults.
5
Circle for St. Jude
Residents of BloomingtonNormal will have the chance to help children in need at an event hosted by the Normal Public Library. Attendees will come together to make hats for children who are going through chemotherapy. Yarn will be provided by the library, but people must bring their own needles. The event starts at 1 p.m. Sunday.
Compiled by Jake Plautz Features Reporter
THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 7
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
JD Gravina
Western Illinois – Gravina might be the only male on the list for Illinois State, but as long as Larry Lyons isn’t speaking, we won’t know for sure. Gravina is coming off the most wins (26) at WIU in his tenure as the Leatherneck’s head coach. Gravina’s offensive mind might be just what Illinois State needs, after posting four of the Leatherneck’s highest scoring offenses in program history. This is not to say he would do the same at Illinois State, but the offense the Redbirds trotted out there this season cannot be repeated again and Gravina might have the answer for ISU somewhere in his playbook. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
SOFTBALL
Continued from page 8
Wiebel has not only been able to play in games so far this season, she has emerged as one of the leading hitters in the Illinois State lineup. SHe is fourth on the team in hits (25), tied for third in doubles (5), tied for first in triples (3) and tied for second in home runs (3). “I think [I’m] just playing relaxed, I’m not trying to put too much pressure on myself. In the fall, I guess I was more uptight about it, but we played a lot of fall games so I think that helped me get ready for this tough spring schedule.” “I just like playing relaxed and just sticking to my game and not worrying too much about it and doing the best I can,” Wiebel said. Illinois State has made nine appearances in the NCAA Tournament, but Wiebel wants
Jill Pizzotti
DePaul – Pizzotti has been with the Blue Demons for five seasons now, contributing to DePaul’s back-to-back Big East regular season and conference tournament titles in 2014 and 2015 as the associate head coach. Pizzotti has also served as the recruiting coordinator for DePaul, an area in which Illinois State is desperate for help. Not to mention, Pizzotti has worked under a future Hall of Famer in DePaul’s Doug Bruno. Pulling Pizzotti away from DePaul would not be easy, but if she wants a head coaching position, it will not be at DePaul as long as Bruno is there and this would be a golden opportunity for her to recruit girls for her own program and bring Illinois State back to the glory that once was.
more than that. She wants the Women’s College World Series. “Ever since I decided like ‘okay I’m gonna play softball in college’ that’s like been — I always watch it on TV, so it’s like that could be me someday, so I really want to be able to do that.” Being a freshman, adjusting to the studentathlete life in college might be tough for a teenager, but for Wiebel, there’s more free time involved with the help of time management. “I actually feel like I have more time than in high school because you’d have class all day and then go straight to practice,” Wiebel said. “But here you kind of have a lighter class schedule time wise. So you have to learn when to get your homework done, before or after practice and know that you’re going to have practice every day and know that you’re gonna be traveling, so you have to stay ahead of all your work.” Academics are something very important
Robyn Fralick
Ashland University – Fralick has been the head coach of Ashland for two seasons, going 68-2 and winning the DII National Championship. Fralick would be another tough get, being an alumna of Davidson with the job open there. Fralick owns the DII women’s basketball record with 21-straight wins to begin a head coaching career. She was also named GLIAC Coach of the Year in 2016. Fralick might the longest shot of them all, but given the position ISU is in, no candidate is too out of reach to try and bring in.
to any student-athlete, especially for Wiebel, a member of National Honor Society. “They’re very important, especially because I want to go into the medical field, so I always have to stay on top of that,” she said. “It’s always been important to me because in high school I was also in the top-10 in my class and I just kind of wanted to set an example that you can do both, you can play a lot of sports and succeed there and in the classroom.” Wiebel has also chosen cellular and molecular biology as her major, might leaving some to ask why? “I thought I wanted to be a surgeon, some type of doctor like that, but then I got here and that was pretty tough my first semester of classes, but I think I’m gonna go more the general biology route now and be, maybe, a physician’s assistant. I’m not to for sure yet,” she said.
Being on a diamond is something that runs in the Wiebel family. Wiebel’s father, Dean, played college baseball at Coe College, while her grandfather, Melvin, played in the Brooklyn Dodger organization. “My whole that side of the family is very involved in sports. My dad has four brothers and a sister, and they all played in college in some sort of sport,” Wiebel said. “So just living up to that, especially for my grandpa, [he] went pretty big, so it’s cool to keep that going.” Softball has always played a big role in Wiebel’s life and will continue to do so. “It’s crazy how many connections I’ve made through softball. I’ve played since, I don’t know, through t-ball ’til now, and I played on a lot of different teams and met so many new people.” See Wiebel in action Saturday at ISU softball’s home opener at noon against Southern Illinois.
SUMMER SESSION STARTS MAY 22 AND JUNE 5. Start planning your summer now at harpercollege.edu/summer
HOROSCOPE Today’s Birthday (03/30/17). Work together for common dreams this year. Strengthen partnerships. Academic discipline wins. A team effort regroups this August, before new passion sparks. October bounty benefits your family. Collect a fat harvest, with two years of professional opportunity beginning in December. Celebrate love. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 9 -- Take action on a profitable opportunity for long-term benefits (perhaps not immediately appar-
ent). Extra assignments could delay fun or travel. Resist the urge to splurge. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- You’re more confident and less patient; moderate your temper and your speed with turns and obstacles. Chill out when overheated. Gemini (May 21-June 20) -Today is a 7 -- Keep a low profile. Slow to avoid costly mistakes. Recharge batteries and make preparations. Strengthen the infrastructure that will support you when things get busy. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Advance a team project together. Come up with a backup
CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE
Plus base height of bed and matching chair. Good condition. $400 firm. Contact rdtind@gmail.com<Turn on JavaScript to see email address>.
HELP WANTED- FOOD & DRINK OZARK HOUSE RESTAURANT Now hiring part time servers and hosthostess. Hours Tues. - Sat. evenings. Apply at theozarkhouse.com/apply. Part-time female bartender wanted for classic neighborhood bar in Bloomington (Est. 1973). 8-20 hours per week. Great team and customers, good tips and $8/ hr. Experience a plus, but will train the right person. Call 217-898-4007.
possible career advance. Consider the long haul. Share advice and ideas. Allow your partner temporary veto power.
Postpone travel, and enjoy the scenery. Let someone else manage the shop. Romantic action has your interest; focus on here and now.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Let go of old business, as a new professional opportunity requires your full attention. Study the situation. Do the homework you’ve been avoiding.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- Support your partner and be supported. Your communications are getting through. If you hit a roadblock, wait for obstacles to clear. Play a game together.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Plan your itinerary before dashing off. Rely on the experience of someone trusted. Follow the rules and be obsessive with details. Use your own good judgment.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Today is an 8 -- Advance to the next level with your work, health or physical efforts. Adapt for developing news. Listen to someone who’s been where you’re going.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- Domestic projects have your attention. Don’t spend impulsively. Check with family before investing in something that may not be what they want. Use what you have.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Money flows in, along with a
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -- Slow down and relax.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Share with your networks. A beautiful moment arises through connecting with someone. Phone home if you’re away. Conflicting orders require clarification. Work it out.
Phone 309 438 7685 • Fax 309 438 5211 Corner of Locust & University, Normal, IL Monday – Friday. 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
HELP WANTED- OUTDOOR/ ATHLETIC PLAY SPORTS! HAVE FUN! MAKE MONEY! Top-rated sports camp needs fun loving counselors to teach all land, water & adventure sports. Great summer in Maine! Call (888) 844-8080; apply at www.campcedar.com
FOR RENT: FALL/SPR 17-18 1611 Fell. 3 Bdrm. Available Aug. 1. All appliances. Look at photos at FisherRentals ForRent on Facebook. 309-660-1089. Walk to Wesleyan. Close to ISU.
FOR RENT: SPRING 17 & SU/ FALL/SPRING 17-18
Part-time bartender needed. Contact Terry at 3096631432. If no answer, leave a message. Must be over 21. Hours and pay to be discussed. Must have open availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Previous experience is a plus but not a requirement. Offer competitive pay starting at $12/hour plus additional tip. Duties include but are not limited to taking food/drink orders, clearing tables, and additional prep work. Contact Lauren English, 309-829-8092. lauren@crestwicke.com<Turn on JavaScript to see email address>
2 Bedroom basement apartment, $425/ per person. Utilities not included, W/D provided. 418 N Main St. Call Alan at 309-212-2136.
HELP WANTED- OFFICE/ CLERICAL
NEW CONSTRUCTION!!! 403 E. VERNON, 4 bed/4.5 bath townhomes Two laundry rooms/unit Flat screen TV, swimming pool/fitness room access www.sami.com
It is easy making phone calls for local community service projects, part time evenings. Call 309-454-7692
plan to work around breakdowns. Something unlucky has a silver lining. Collaborate for long-term benefit.
1-6 BR houses for rent. Furnished, low rent, 1 mile from ISU. Call or text 309-830-1121 Subleases available! www.sami.com (309) 888-4600
FOR RENT: SU/FALL/SPRING 17-18
(309) 888-4600 Large 2 BR. Townhouse. $535/person, $390 for 3, Prime Location, 2 blocks south of Watterson, central air, laundry in kitchen, 2 parking spaces, furniture, very nice. 610 S. Fell. 287-1870 Linden Trails: Brand new construction. 4 bdrm, 4.5 bath with washer and dryer. Next to the trail. Utilities included. Start at $620/person. Class Act Realty 309-454-2960 301 S. WALNUT: Furnished 2 Bedrooms. Balcony, Covered parking, Laundry. Quiet Building. Start at ONLY $290 Class Act Realty. 454-2960 4 Bedroom House - 506 E. College. 1 block from Pub, W/D, DSL, Parking, Screened in porch. $495 per person. Call 309-275-2078. 808 S Linden: Large 1, 2, 3 and 4 person units. All Utilities Included. Next to the trail. Start at $350. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 N Linden 3 or 4 bdrm house. Off street parking. Great location. Days: 309-2751281. Evenings: 309-365-8604. 5 BR House near ISU golf course. Partially furnished w/ attached garage. $500/mo/person. 309-696-9326 Large 2 BR. Apt. for 2. $365/person., $265 for 3, A/C, dishwasher, deck/ patio, laundry. Heat & water paid, 6 blocks north on School St. from ISU (309)287-1870 Crossing Dr. Large 3 Br/2 & 3 Ba townhome. W/D. $367-382 per person. 309-830-5073. See www.RLapartments.com
Linden Trails. Brand new construction. 4 bdrm, 4.5 bath with washer and dryer. Next to the trail. Utilities included. Start at $620/person. Class Act Realty 309-454-2960 3 bdrm 2 bath. All appliances. Look at photos at FisherRentals ForRent on Facebook. $1200 + utilities. Available in May/June. Fenced in yard. Close to parkside, Heartland, ISU. 309-660-1089. 401 N. Fell Ave. Remodeled 4 bedroom/2 bath. New flooring and kitchen counter top. Breakfast bar with stools, dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer & dryer in unit. Central air, secured building, off street parking, high speed internet provided. $495/per person. Call Excel Real Estate at 309-829-5885. Furnished one bedroom apartment for rent. Summer ‘17- Spring ‘18. 210 East Vernon. Owner managed. Call 309-825-7920. 406 Dewey Ave: 4 bdrm 1 bath unit. Includes parking, onsite laundry & utilities alw. Close to ISU. Starting $370/bdrm. Will roommate match. 309-454-4100 Fell: Spacious 2 & 4 Bedrooms. 1 block from campus. Laundry. Start at $375. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 TOWNHOMES: 2, 3 & 4 Bedrooms. Include Washer-dryer, central air, dishwasher, parking, patio and/or balcony, yard. ONLY $255-360 per bedroom. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Houses: 3 to 5 Bedrooms. Start at $325 per person. Class Act Realty. 454-2960
Flora Way: Large Furnished 2, 3 and 4 Bedrooms. Start at ONLY $325. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 2017-2018 School Year! 1,2,3 & 4 bedrooms www.sami.com (309) 888-4600 3BR/1BA house for rent. 915 Hovey. On ISU campus. Call 309-660-2390.
ROOMMATES WANTED Roommates Needed. 6BR/3BA house. 501E. Mulberry. Premium location on ISU campus. Call 309-660-2390
FOR RENT: SPRING 2017 Various 1, 2, 3 and 4 Bedrooms and some single rooms available. $235-$555. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Need an apartment for immediate move-in? 2 bedrooms and roommate matching available! www.sami.com (309) 888-4600
HELP WANTED-GENERAL Wanted: Life drawing models for group of serious, professional artists. Every Tues. 6:30-9pm. $40 per session. All body types welcome. Contact Brian at info@brianksimpson.com<Turn on JavaScript to see email address> Calling all CHEMISTRY Majors. Akorn Pharmaceutical is now hiring Chemist for the Decatur, IL facility. Appl
PAGE 8 | SPORTS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2017
What’s next for once-glorious program? MICHAEL MARRA Senior Reporter
On Mar. 11, Illinois State relieved Barb Smith of her head coaching duties of the women’s basketball program. Smith went 28-93 during her four-year tenure of the Redbirds, which marks the worst four-year stretch this program has ever seen. Larry Lyons said in a press release upon the firing that the search for a new coach would begin immediately. Since then, Lyons has declined comment with The Vidette, leaving people to speculate about possible replacements for Smith. See COACHES on page 7
Kristen Gillespie Lewis University – Gillespie just concluded her second year at the helm of the DII Lewis Flyers, owning a record of 52-12. Gillespie was named GLAC and WBCA Midwest Region Coach of the Year in 2016, while also being a head coach at DIII Benedictine, winning the most games (18) in 2015 since the 2006 Benedictine team. A move 80 minutes down I-55 could be in the cards for Gillespie.
Freshman Wiebel steps into big role at Illinois State
Keitha Adams
University of Texas at El Paso – Adam might be hard to pull away from UTEP, but she did interview for Wichita State, showing interest in a rebuilding process there, although not as severe as the rebuild ISU will go through. She’s coming off an 8-23 record in 2016-17, so she may be looking for a change. Adams is UTEP’s alltime wins leader (276) and owns a collegiate record of 403-233 through 20 years of coaching. The fact she interviewed with Wichita State is reason alone for ISU to reach out, let alone the success she would bring to Redbird Arena.
Kristi Cirone
Judson Univeristy – An ISU alumna, Cirone spent two years as a graduate assistant at Mizzou, working under former ISU coach Robin Pingeton. Cirone is a longshot, after just taking over the Judson University program, but has been at the helm of the Eagles for five seasons and is someone who has ties to this once-great women’s basketball program. Judson is coming off an 18-win season, the most under Cirone. Returning home after five seasons of head coaching experience makes Cirone at least worthy of a look.
Swinging into Spring
Story by MICHAEL MARRA | Senior Sports Reporter When freshman Alyssa Wiebel stepped onto the campus of Illinois State University, she brought a lot of success with her. Wiebel, a native of Van Horne, Iowa, attended Benton Community High School where last season she helped lead the Bobcats to the Iowa Class 3A state championship. “That was really a once in a lifetime opportunity. We had good seasons all four years and we just kept getting one step closer and closer. The year before that we were runner-up, so it was a big motivation that senior year to go out and win it and that’s what we did,” Wiebel said. Getting to the state championship is no easy task, let alone having the pressure on you when the lights shine brightest. “Playing in that pressure situation has really helped me know how to feel when those situations come up,” she said. To go along with being a state champion, Wiebel was inducted into the Benton Community High School Atheltic Hall of Fame,named the Iowa Softball Gatorade Player of the Year, earned all-state first-team honors, ranked second on the all-time home-runs list in the state of Iowa and ranked fourth in the all-time home-runs list in the nation. Despite putting up the numbers, she also credits her teammates for helping with her success. “It meant a lot to be able to get inducted into that (Hall of Fame). We had a lot of good girls on our team so that helped be a successful team,” Wiebel said. Wiebel also set season, career and school records for batting average, RBIs, home runs, hits and slugging percentage her senior year. A player of many talents, Wiebel was also an integral part of the Bobcats’ pitching staff, going undefeated her senior year and throwing two no-hitters. “I was the number two pitcher, since we had [University of Minnesota freshman softball player Amber Fiser], and she was very dominant. But, I just had to do it for the team. We played double-headers, so we had to have two pitchers each night. But I grew up pitching and then just kind of continued going on with it.” All of those experiences and accomplishments have gotten Wiebel ready for this part of her softball career. “I hope that I can keep it up and I know it’s a lot harder game, it’s a lot more fast paced and a lot harder competition, but I hope can use some of that experience from high school and keep it going and keep building on my success.” Now Wiebel finds herself as a freshman for Melinda Fischer’s Illinois State squad and has started in all 28 of the Redbirds’ games this season. “I didn’t really know what to expect that first tournament, I didn’t know if I was gonna play or not. And I’d actually been practicing more at shortstop all winter, so I was kind of surprised when she (Fischer) said ‘okay you’re playing third base,” Wiebel said. “Then I had a strong first couple of games, so I guess, I can stay there,” she said giggling. See SOFTBALL on page 7
Photograph by Kelly McNamara | Vidette Photo Editor
Lyons needs to make right hire
MY VIEW JOSH TOLENTINO | Sports Editor @JCTSports Illinois State Athletic Director Larry Lyons made the right decision on Mar. 11, when he fired Barb Smith. Letting go of the former ISU women’s basketball coach was something that should have been done years ago, but her firing is a positive sign for a once-glorious program sitting at an all-time low. Smith was one of the nicest ISU coaches to interact with, but her personality and demeanor did not translate onto the court. She compiled a 28-93 record in four seasons, while posting a programworst 2-win season in 2014-15. She was in the fourth year of a five-year contract and is owed $250,000 after Lyons executed her buyout clause earlier this month. It has been nearly 20 days since Smith was fired and there has been no updates. Lyons declined to speak with The Vidette earlier this week and will not comment on women’s basketball or the coaching search until after a decision is made. While some fans may be impatient as this Saturday marks three weeks of no updates, patience is needed for ISU Athletics and this huge upcoming decision. Lyons should be given the benefit of the doubt as a possible candidate may have been or may even still be in postseason contention. ISU was also busy with the men’s team waiting on the tourney bubble and later hosting a NIT game. But there is cause for concern. A source within ISU Athletics said Lyons and his administration didn’t start preparing for phone interviews until last Friday (13 days after her firing). Which brings up the question: who knows if they’ve actually started conducting them? Lyons admitted in an interview with The Vidette earlier this season that winning is the only thing that will turn this program around and bring more fans back to Redbird Arena, which averaged just over 700 fans at women’s games this season. Retaining Smith after a two-win season was a mistake, but fans have got to wonder if a list of possible future coaches to replace Smith started back then. Whoever Lyons hires, he cannot defer the decision to Leanna Bordner, who played a “’big role” in Smith’s hiring while under former Athletic Director Gary Friedman. Bordner has more than 24 years of experience working for ISU Athletics, but she helped first hand bring in a losing culture when Smith was hired. Lyons and Bornder have been vocal about always wanting to hire females to coach women’s sports, but what if the best possible candidate happens to be a male? With the National Letter of Intent spring signing period beginning on April 12, it would be ISU’s best interest to make a decision soon. ISU isn’t a hot-market destination, but it is a program with rich history and plenty of success. The Redbirds have made the NCAA Tournament five times, and own six Missouri Valley Conference regular-season titles. ISU last made the NCAA tourney in 2008 under Robin Pingeton. Several members of that team have voiced their frustration to The Vidette and said it was “very difficult” watching the Smith era. Hopefully Lyons makes the right decision. And hopefully that team, along with fans and supporters of the women’s program, will be able to watch ISU with more pride in the coming seasons.