African American literature researcher and poet joins English department as new assistant professor
BRANDI SPANN opinion editor
Published poet and researcher of African American literature Angel Dye will be joining SIUE’s Department of English as an assistant professor of African American Literature this fall.
Her research on Harlem Renaissance literature and culture brings a new area of expertise to the department.
“We offer more African American lit classes every year than any other program in the nation,” Distinguished Research Professor Howard Rambsy said. “Angel will help us. I felt like we’re already ahead, but now she helps us go even further.”
“I’ve been able to follow her career for a long time,” Rambsy said. “She would apply for certain fellowships and programs, and she would ask me for advice and what I thought about this and that, and so I started thinking, ‘Oh, she’s gonna be a colleague.’ I didn’t think here [at SIUE], though. But I did keep
her in mind as somebody to keep an eye on in the field.”
When the English department began searching for someone to fill the position, Rambsy felt that Dye was the exact sort of person the department needed to hire.
“At the time, I didn’t know she was even going to be going on the job market,” Rambsy said. “But I would say, ‘We need somebody who’s really smart — somebody who’s energetic, who’s cutting-edge, trying to think about new things — but a shorthand for that is somebody like Angel Dye.’
first-generation college student.
In preparation for graduate school, she participated in the African American Literatures and Cultures Institute at University of Texas at San Antonio in 2016, where she met Rambsy.
Then she applied. I said, ‘Oh my god, the person that I used as a template for what we were looking for ended up applying.’”
Dye received her bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in theater arts from Howard University, a historically Black university, in 2017. She was a
“Ultimately, the position at SIUE came to my attention through Dr. Rambsy,” Dye said. “He’s certainly someone who has been foundational and pivotal in my life as I’ve come to this point in my career.”
She earned her master’s of fine arts in creative writing from the University of Kentucky in Lexington, where she worked on a poetry thesis. Dye began her PhD program at Rutgers University in 2019 and worked with faculty mentors such as Evie Shockley, Maurice Wallace, Imani Owens and Erica Edwards.
Dye said that her research focuses on 20th and 21st-centu-
ry African American literature. Her dissertation is on rent parties — social gatherings originating in Harlem that feature live music, food and fundraising to combat unaffordable housing. She studied the Great Migration, Black women’s writing and contemporary work from the 1970s and 1980s.
While her PhD program at Rutgers was meant to last 7 years, Dye said that she made successful progress with her dissertation and felt ready to begin applying for jobs a year early. She applied for upwards of 20 positions, trying to remain realistic about the difficulties of the job market.
diately and gave SIUE my resounding ‘yes,’” Dye said.
Associate Professor of English and Director of Graduate Studies Donavan Ramon said that most African American literature programs will typically have one or two professors who specialize in the field teaching courses. Angel Dye is now the sixth faculty member in African American literature at SIUE.
Howard Rambsy Distinguished Research Professor “
I felt like we’re already ahead, but now she helps us go even further.”
“I got the official offer, and it was a no-brainer for me. I signed the offer letter imme-
The current faculty at SIUE specialize in 19th and 20th-century African American literature. Dye does both 20th and 21st-century work.
“Angel is literally bringing us to the future. With all six of us, you’re going to have coverage
Community Hope Center offers aid to local communities
PARIS THOMAS IV reporter
Whether it is a struggling college student or a family displaced by a tornado, the Community Hope Center in Cottage Hills serves anyone in need.
The Community Hope Center supports around 50 families per day, offering support via food and clothes to job and housing support. Guests are invited to shop every two weeks for any essentials, with cart size depending on family size. The center values fresh produce and even grows some produce in its own garden, which is used in their cafe.
“If you can get to us, we will help you,” Christy Schult, the development director at the Community Hope Center, said. “We serve everyone. We don’t turn people away.”
Schult is a former teacher in the Collinsville school district, where she taught in special education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she developed a passion for service and helping people in need.
She left teaching behind to pursue work in helping others. That led to Schult working at Hoyleton Youth and Family Services in Hoyleton, Illinois, as a development coordinator of internships and volunteers. Schult
worked there for three years.
“It was my job to raise funds by hosting annual golf tournaments and galas, speaking with individuals, churches and organizations about the services provided at Hoyleton,” Schult said.
This past January, Schult and the Community Hope Center began discussing a position they were creating in the development department. They were growing quickly, and they felt that they needed someone who would be able to work the position to relieve other staff members. They believed Schult was the right person for the job.
Now, Schult spends her day at the Community Hope Center, interacting with guests and donors while helping provide support at the center.
“My job is to build relationships and showcase the heart of the center,” Schult said. “Hopefully, that inspires others to sponsor us, whether financially or with donations.”
“It’s important to help out as much as we can,” Schult said.
One recent event in the area the center helped with was the May 16 tornado, which impacted northern St. Louis. To help out, the Community Hope Center offered clothes, food, blankets and hygienic supplies.
Ashley Santoni, the community navigation manager, has seen
the center’s impact firsthand. Santoni first found the Community Hope Center in 2012 as a guest. Years later, Santoni began serving with the organization.
“Now, I get to share the same hope I once received,” Santoni said.
In August 2019, Santoni began volunteering for the center before taking a hiatus during COVID-19 as schools went to e-learning. After the pandemic, Santoni returned back to the center and became a staff member in 2022.
Santoni works directly with unhoused guests, helping navigate resources such as housing, education and employment for them.
“I just recently worked with a gentleman to help him get his GED, find a job and get housing,” Santoni said.
The Community Hope Center also supports SIUE and other local college students, offering aid and opportunities for community service.
“We’re happy to help college students too, as many of them need service hours, and they can find support here if they need it,” Schult said.
The Community Hope Center is open to anyone in need, and they always welcome volunteers and donations. For more information, visit their website.
A volunteer prays with a guest at the Community Hope Center. The center offers essentials for people in need to shop for. Names are not provided to protect privacy. | Courtesy of the Community Hope Center
Angel Dye
Illinois students save millions with state-funded test prep program
SOPHIE HAWKINS online editor
07.01.25
Officer assisted Edwardsville Police Department with responding to an alleged report of possible shots fired in their venue. The officer advised the area was secure.
07.02.25
Officer responded to a report of a verbal disagreement between roommates. The subjects agreed to separate for the night.
The Prepare for Illinois’ Future program has made Illinois the first state to provide free test and licensure preparation material to its students.
According to Tassi Communications, a communication agency specializing in media relations and public advocacy, the program has saved select Illinois universities and community college students more than $10 million in out-of-pocket costs related to test prep, exams and professional licensure.
“Other states will see this is something [Illinois is] offering to our students. It’s a reason to come to our schools versus going to some other schools, because we’re supporting everything you need for your academic journey,” Illinois State Representative Katie Stuart said.
This program comes from a partnership between the State of Illinois, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission and Kaplan, an educational service provider to create licensure and test preparation material at no cost to university students from select Illinois colleges.
07.02.25
Officer took a report of a subject acting suspicious. Officer advised subject was gone on arrival.
With this program, students can use free academic resources to study for graduate admissions exams, credentialing exams, licensure exams and professional development courses. The resources provided help students prepare for the MCAT, GRE, NCLEX and more, with multiple courses to fit into student’s schedules.
Stuart said test and licensure prep being free to students is important as some may not be able to afford extra test help.
“We have students really living right at the margins, and a couple hundred dollars for a licensure exam is just impossible,” Stuart said.
The State of Illinois, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission and the educational service provider Kaplan partnered to create cost-free test preparation material and licensure for select universities in Illinois.
| Brandi Spann / The Alestle
07.04.25
Officer took a report regarding an alleged incident involving a camp attendee. Officer advised incident occurred the day before.
There are currently 12 public fouryear universities and five community colleges that are part of the program. One of the 12 four-year universities enrolled in this program is SIUE.
According to Tassi Communications, SIUE has saved around $170,000 with the program, and students have seen the benefits not only financially but also academically.
“I was able to improve my [test] score by four points, which is excellent on [the] LSAT,” senior Bay Baltayev said.
Baltayev, an international studies major, used the program during the
Edwardsville Police receive $75,000 grant for new space to train and coordinate
DYLAN HEMBROUGH
editor-in-chief
Working with Illinois Senator Jason Plummer, the Edwardsville Police Department has received a $75,000 state grant to build a “situational awareness room” for police officers to learn and train in.
According to a July 3 press release from Plummer’s office, the room will be built in an unfinished portion of the Edwardsville Public Safety Building, located downtown adjacent to Edwardsville Fire Department Station 1.
The room will be a center to manage emergency responses and investigations. It will also be used for training exercises.
“The situational awareness room is equipped with an array of large monitors
capable of displaying real-time camera feeds, geographic maps and other critical information,” the press release said. “It offers a flexible seating area that can be configured as an emergency operations center or adapted for classroom-style training and planning sessions.”
The Edwardsville City Council originally approved the grant application in May 2023, according to The Edwardsville Intelligencer.
“We are fortunate as a city to be represented by elected officials who prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens,” Edwardsville Police Chief Michael Fillback said in Plummer’s press release.
The room was finished in May and is now ready for operation.
The Alestle was unable to reach Fillback for comment.
spring semester of last year to study for the LSAT, the primary law school entrance exam.
The study materials come in the form of online instruction, practice exams and study calendars depending on your test prep and the type of school you’re enrolled in. The classes also provide instructors that work to help students with the course material.
“I really appreciated the assistance from the instructors,” Baltayev said.
“The instructors were so happy to stay and stick around and answer questions
and chat.”
In the future, Stuart said the goal is to expand the program to provide free test and licensure prep to more Illinois students, as well as encourage other states to do the same.
“If you come to school in Illinois, we’re going to support the full spectrum of what you need for your success — including those licensure exams or exams like the GRE or the MCAT — for you to go on to whatever your next level of education is,” Stuart said.
SIUE welcomes international students amidst concerns over visa uncertainty
PARIS THOMAS IV reporter
SIUE is welcoming a host of international students hailing from different countries and continents despite the U.S. government’s crackdown on foreign visas. Because of these revocations, some students are uncertain about their educational future in the U.S.
lenges related to cultural differences, immigration policies and social adjustment.
Alseikh said there could be some work done on campus to build a stronger space for international students, as he feels that most are still struggling to adjust.
“
I chose SIUE because of its strong sense of community, its supportive environment, and the quality of education is offered.”
Shihab Alseikh Engineering Student
Sophomore engineering major Shihab Alseikh is an international student who enrolled at SIUE last fall semester. Alseikh is originally from Syria, but was raised in Yemen before studying abroad. Alseikh chose to study abroad because of the opportunities and resources available in this country.
“Unfortunately, the education systems in both Syria and Yemen have suffered due to ongoing conflicts, and I knew I wanted something better for myself and my family,” Alseikh said.
“I chose SIUE because of its strong sense of community, its supportive environment and the quality of education it offered,” Alseikh said.
While SIUE offers various resources and programs, some international students still feel that they encounter chal-
“I’ve noticed that many international students tend to stay with their own cultural groups,” Alseikh said. “And I think SIUE could do more to bridge the gap between domestic and international students, perhaps by creating more inclusive programs or events that can bring them both together.”
Plamedi Nseka, president of the African Student Association and business major, believes that SIUE can do more in helping international students get acclimated to not only the university, but the area itself.
“I believe international students need more experiences outside the campus,” Nseka said. “[SIUE] can also establish specific programs for international students like connecting them with good internships.”
According to these students, adjusting to a new environment can be challenging, raising concerns for them about whether SIUE will be a long-term fit. Nseka aims to ease this transition for his peers. Nseka, who is of Congolese descent and immigrated to the United States at age nine, believes his experiences can help bridge gaps between the groups on campus.
Sophomore predental student Abdul Hadi said that, while he enjoys spending time with his classmates, he often feels alone.
“Although with my classmates I enjoy every minute of my time, on campus, I often feel alone,” Hadi said.
“I understand the certain struggles that come from moving into a new country,” Nseka said. “From the language barriers at times to missing your family, it can be tough. I want to ensure that [international students] will have a community as long as they’re here at SIUE.”
Another significant concern for some international students is the current political climate in the United States. With fears of potential visa revocations and deportations, some worry that their studies at SIUE could be cut short.
“I think the political situation is scary for [international students] here,” Nseka said. “I can see how it can be difficult for [international students] to focus on their studies fully when there is no real certainty on their future.”
Hadi shares similar concerns regarding the political climate. Hadi is from Pakistan, but moved to Dubai when he was four. Although he has been in America since he was 11, he believes his education-
a l status could potentially be in jeopardy, especially in the wake of visa revocations at universities nationwide.
“I am concerned that at any point I might be approached by government officials or receive an email stating that my F-1 visa status is revoked,” Hadi said.
Nseka has events and plans for next year’s semester to make a relaxing environment for international students. For instance, goodie bags and school supplies will be given to students for the following
“
I am concerned that at any point I might be approached by government offcials or receive an email stating that my F-1 visa status is revoked.”
Abdul Hadi Pre Dental Student
academic school year.
“I want to provide supplies and items for [international students] when they arrive, as they will not know off the bat where to get these things,” Nseka said.
Although there are some concerns, some international students are still confident that they can graduate despite these issues.
“While SIUE may not be one of the most famous universities in the country, it is a great institution, in my opinion,” Alseikh said. “I am confident that I’ll graduate with a solid degree that will help me achieve my goals.”
English department welcomes new African American literature researcher
PROFESSOR | COVER
of African American literature historically from the colonial era up until the 21st century and beyond,” Ramon said. “[With] coverage in terms of time frame, chronology — and certainly in terms of topic — with six of us, the range of courses we could teach is endless.”
During the hiring process, Ramon said that Dye’s educational lineage was impressive on paper, and her demeanor and intellect impressed faculty further when they met in person.
“Her application materials were stellar. They were spot on. And her research on rent parties is specific, unique and helps us redefine what we think of the Harlem Renaissance,” Ramon said. “She’s a published poet as well. That is fascinating, because she can not only teach the craft of poetry, but the history of poetry as well.”
Assistant Professor of English Cindy Reed said that it is beneficial for students to have access to an expert in the field who is also a practicing creative. Academic work and creative work are sometimes separated in the academic space.
“There is no one without the other,” Reed said. “I can imagine in her cours-
es — regardless of what she’s teaching — she’s going to be able to make the creative talk to the scholarly in really neat ways.”
Ramon said that stu dents can look forward to what Dye teaches because it will be interdisciplinary and multimedia. Bringing together literature, histo ry, music and the Black ar chive provides a variety of educational opportunities for her future students.
During the application process, Dye was required to give a research presenta tion to professors, students and administrators highlighting her ex pertise and knowledge on her topic. She designed an invitation to her presentation replicating rent party invites.
“I always sprinkle in some Janelle Monáe,” Dye said, “I think she does really generative
“She put theory into practice by having an invitation to a rent party,” Ramon said. “She’s going to contribute a lot both to students and research here and the larger field of African American literature.”
Dye said that students who enroll in her courses can expect to interact with work by Toni Morrison, Toni Cade Bambara, Jesmyn Ward and Janelle Monáe.
Afro -
futurist work that my students always respond well to.”
Dye will be working with SIUE’s Boundless Scholar Experience, an initiative that supports students as they navigate their first year. She said that the experience attracted her to SIUE, as the support that the program offers provides some of the things she needed as a scholar in academia.
Dye grew up in Milwaukee in a low-income household. Being a first-generation college student impacted her edu-
cational path and her approach to teaching and research.
“I’m truly the first in my family to go this far with my educational path. But their lived experiences as working class people — as deeply religious and spiritual people — have informed me as a scholar in every single way, and they’ve instilled in me a deep love for other people, for humanity, a deep commitment to social justice and community building. I’m carrying all of that with me as I join the family and faculty at SIUE,” Dye said.
Reed said that part of Dye’s relatability comes from her pride in her experiences as a first-generation college student, and Reed believes that that perspective and compassion will benefit the student body at SIUE.
“I cannot wait for people to see who Angel Dye is and what she’s going to bring to SIUE. We are better because she’s coming. I believe that,” Reed said.
Summer Showbiz rocks Dunham Hall with ‘School of Rock’
AUDREY O’RENIC sports editor
SIUE Theater and Dance is turning up the volume this summer with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical adaptation of “School of Rock.”
Based on the hit 2003 film, “School of Rock” follows failed rock guitarist Dewey Finn (Halstead Selby) as he poses as a substitute teacher and discovers the musical talent of his fifthgrade class. Against all norms
Go and smell the roses: Activities to make your summer less boring
CHLOE WOLFE lifestyles editor
While summer break can be a much-needed break, it can sometimes get dull. Here is a list of activities in the area to beat your summer boredom.
Check out a nature trail
SIUE itself is home to many trails for those who like to hike and those who prefer to bike. If you’re willing to drive to a hiking location, St. Louis is near several hiking locations.
Make sure to stay safe in the heat and drink lots of water. If you can, go early or late in the day to avoid the heat.
Go for a swim
There are several public pools in and around Edwardsville. Usually, for just a small price, you can spend your summer relaxing outside by the pool.
SIUE also has an indoor pool in the Student Fitness Center, which is open from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:00 PM6:30 PM Monday through Friday.
Go to The Land of Goshen Community Market
Summer brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, so spend your Saturday mornings purchasing some from local vendors at the Goshen Market in Downtown Edwardsville. The market is open every Saturday in the
OLIVIA WHITLOCK copy
editor
Yes, of course, I’ve seen the 1929 French black-andwhite surrealist silent short film “Un Chien Andalou.” No, of course, I haven’t seen the 2006 American animated family comedy “Cars.”
I’m happy to report that I’ve now watched four widely popular films and might be able to avoid some of the glares and gasps I usually receive.
Please visit websites such as “Does the Dog Die?” to check for potential triggers and sensitive topics before viewing any movie on this list.
‘Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone’ (2001) Director Chris Columbus
I now understand why millennials have Harry Potter tattoos.
I’m not saying 2001 is ancient, but I can imagine it was a bit more difficult to build a set as immersive as this one nearly 25 years ago compared to now. I was absolute-
of the prestigious prep school, Dewey secretly turns the polished classmates into a rowdy rock band to compete in the big Battle of the Bands.
Directed by Theater and Dance Program Assistant
summer from 8 a.m. to noon.
If you’re looking for more local markets to visit, check out our Metro East Markets list of more markets in the area.
Spend the day at Cougar Lake Cougar Lake provides an entire day’s worth of activities.
Per university guidelines, fishing is allowed on the lake with a valid Illinois fishing license.
For those wishing to get out on the lake, “Boating is prohibited except for University-owned watercraft during University-sponsored events,” according to University Facilities. Equipment can be rented from the Outdoor Recreation Equipment Rental. It is recommended that you reserve equipment for at least 2 business days. Swimming is prohibited.
The lake is also perfect for watching the sunset. Bring a picnic blanket and your friends, and enjoy the view.
Check out a local library
Libraries offer several amenities, not just books. Edwardsville Public Library offers lots of different resources and services that are available to those with library cards.
Lovejoy Library also remains open over the summer for students and visitors. They are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays. They are closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Kate Slovinski, the production showcases the talents of the community onstage. In addition to SIUE student actors, “School of Rock” highlights well-seasoned adult actors and aspiring, upand-coming child actors across the Metro East.
MICHAL KATE CASTLEMAN managing editor
Deep, dramatic secrets and political drama flood the pages of Audrey Ingram’s June release, “The Summer We Ran.” This novel is immersive and full of surprises in each chapter.
The novel, which flows in a dual timeline and dual perspective between the past, 1996, and the present, 2021, follows Tess Murphy and Grant Alexander. Tess and Grant are running against each other to be the governor of Virginia.
In the present day, these political rivals are clearly understood to have a dramatic history that must remain a secret from their spouses, their campaign managers and their voters.
In 1996, Tess’s mom begins a new job as the cook of a large estate. As they adjust to their new home, Tess picks up a gardening job for Kay Alexander. Kay introduces Tess to her son, Grant, and the two begin a summer romance.
Between the two timelines, Tess comments on her mother’s desire for her to be perfect. However, Tess’s mother only has a few scenes where she is given extensive dialogue. Their complicated relationship is explained and understood by the reader but not shown enough to drive the point home.
Performances will run July 18-20 and July 25-27. Evening shows begin at 7 p.m. and weekend matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets range from $10-18 and are available at the online SIUE Box Office.
‘The Summer We Ran:’ A nostalgic, political and dramatic read
Ingram’s writing style is descriptive, and readers will easily find themselves pulled into the story. Ingram does use some repetitive language, such as mentioning that Tess was 17. The phrase “that summer” is used enough to the point it could have been the book title itself.
In the writing for the present day, Ingram does better by showing the tensions that Tess and Grant have with their spouses and campaign managers. Tess feels indifferent toward her husband, and Grant is on the brink of divorce with his wife. While they handle the stress of their campaigns and their personal lives, they reflect heavily on their past.
Despite the book focusing on two political candidates, the book does not dive into details about Grant or Tess’s campaigns. Their race is used as a stressor and an intense cause for the drama that takes place in the novel.
Readers find out more about Tess and Grant’s story as the novel unravels, with each twist more emotional and dramatic than the last. Their past and present collide in a heartbreaking way, but “The Summer We Ran” may have needed another chapter or two to fully satisfy readers. The novel spends so much time building up to the revealing of secrets, but needed to spend more time in the aftermath.
I watched four popular movies for the first time
ly blown away by the world building and intricacies.
Harry and his pals were so precious, engaging to watch from start to finish — just brilliant young actors. What a tall order they had with the whole world anticipating this film at the time — and they certainly delivered.
‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994) Director Frank Darabont
This is a perfect movie. I have no quippy remarks to make. Just perfect in every regard. I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive before my viewing.
Even though I’ve always heard this title hailed as one of the best of all time, I figured it might just be one of those movie-canon picks older people loved — but that people my age would find underwhelming or outdated.
Man, was I completely wrong.
It’s not flashy or action-packed. The story creeps up on you in a way, but I wouldn’t necessarily say the pacing is slow. It’s more so small emotional blows that continue to build during the duration of the film.
As a viewer, you become immersed in the lives of these incarcerated men over the decades that pass. You watch their personalities develop and learn more about them, forming a deep sense of connection as you come to understand them. It becomes crushing when anything bad happens to them and thrilling when something good finally... breaks through.
‘La La Land’ (2016)
Director Damien Chazelle
This movie musical was a bit “pis y caca.” I went in only knowing who the main stars were, that it was a romance and that there was at least one dance sequence, because I’d seen a clip before. For some reason, I didn’t even realize it was a musical — but that’s on me for not picking up on the very clear context clues right in front of me.
Naturally, the acting was good — Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling are talented actors — and it was shot well, but I am genuinely perplexed about all the clamoring I heard on the internet and from friends
for years. Were they blowing smoke up my skirt or what?
I didn’t shed any tears like I was told, and I wasn’t in awe.
Have I seen too many movies to recognize subtle magic when it’s there? I thought it was fine — a mediocre story about two people who must go their separate ways, even though they’re in love — to have successful careers while singing little ditties and gallivanting around. What am I missing?
‘Kill Bill: Vol. 1’ (2003) Director Quentin Tarantino
“Wiggle your big toe.” Yeah, there’s no question who directed this film.
Obviously, I was familiar with some of the most iconic elements beforehand — Uma Thurman’s yellow tracksuit and Onitsuka Tigers, Bernard Herrmann’s “Twisted Nerve” — all the very surface-level stuff.
I can’t say exactly where it ranks, but this vengeance-seeking movie shot its way up on my list of favorites.
I particularly thought the several-minute-long animated past reenactment break was an awesome stylistic choice. I’ve only previously seen something like that in “Revolver” (2005), but Tarantino’s use of it in this film blew whatever Guy Ritchie was attempting out of the water. Soundtracks are something I rarely mention in my reviews, but the work RZA did on this movie particularly stuck out to me for its uniqueness. It was unlike anything I have come across before, but it fit very well.
Before watching the films on this list, I had been on a streak of just decent movies and was starting to lose a bit of hope that I had found all the ones I thought were personally the best.
While Tarantino could have cooled it a bit with the buckets of blood shooting out at crazy velocities, this was a refreshing reminder that there are still some stellar films out there I have yet to see.
It’s a well-rounded mix of genres that all come together in an interestingly artful and cinematic way. There’s also a lack of consistency in the editing that adds a bit of unpredictability.
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The Mississippi River Festival returned to the Alton Amphitheater with a two-day lineup of diverse music, local art and community engagement on June 27 and 28.
The original festival took place on SIUE’s Edwardsville campus from 1969 to 1980 and featured performances by major artists like Janis Joplin, The Who, Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan.
In 2025, the MRF is taking a step toward a true festival atmosphere with a more diverse lineup across two days. In addition to the bustling music scene, the festival highlighted local businesses and artists of the Riverbend region.
| Audrey O’Renic /
DANCING THROUGH THE DIRT: Kassi Ashton dances around the stage to a song from her latest album “Made From The Dirt: The Blooms” on the second day of the Mississippi River Festival. | Audrey O’Renic / The Alestle
ROUGH WEATHER: Jeremie Albino (left) and Sameer Cash kick off their set in over 90-degree weather on June 28 at the Mississippi River Festival.
Audrey O’Renic / The Alestle
LOCAL ART: With pieces on display by local artist Michael Snyder, Mississippi River Festival attendees experience Alton’s rich art scene in between sets.
The Alestle
Roads and ruin: Rescinding the Roadless Rule was a mistake
THE ALESTLE STAFF editorial board
On June 23, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s plans to rescind the Roadless Rule, subjecting around 58 million acres of federal lands to industrial production in place of preservation.
The Roadless Rule was established in 2001 under former President Bill Clinton to protect against road construction and timber harvesting on National Forest System lands.
These lands, occupying 43 different states as well as the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, will now be exposed to road building and logging.
“This move opens a new era of consistency and sustainability for our nation’s forests. It is abundantly clear that properly managing our forests preserves them from devastating fires and allows future genera-
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tions of Americans to enjoy and reap the benefits of this great land,” Brooke Rollins, U.S. secretary of agriculture, said in a USDA press release.
The USDA website says the Roadless Area Conservation Rule is an “outdated administrative rule [that] contradicts the will of Congress and goes against the mandate of the U.S. Forest Service to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands.”
The removal of the Roadless Rule will drop the protection of these federal forests and wildlands to allow road construction and deconstruction, as well as timber production.
Though its removal may allow for more management of the lands from the local level, its rescinding may create more harm than good.
The opportunity for road construction in these areas poses threat to its wildlife, contributing to increased mortality and
MICHAL KATE CASTLEMAN managing editor
News has built up recently about “No Touch Laws,” or laws that prevent drivers from using handheld devices while driving a vehicle, even if the driver is stopped at a traffic light. While this law is not new in the state of Illinois, the news around it should bring awareness surrounding the issue of cellphone usage while driving.
Currently, telling someone to stop using their phone and driving sounds less like a genuine warning, and more like a passive, cliché statement. People are too addicted to their phones to take the warning seriously. Using your phone while driving does not always mean answering a call
or texting — skipping a song or editing your GPS also counts as distracted driving.
Illinois’ distracted driving laws have been in place since 2010. According to Illinois Legal Aid, the only recent update to the law was in January 2024, which makes accessing video call sites like Zoom and social media apps while driving illegal.
Despite the “No Touch Law” not being new to Illinois at all, Illinois Tollway said in 2023, 2,510 motor vehicle accidents occurred due to cell phone usage.
According to SlickText, the national average for phone usage is 5 hours and 16 minutes a day. SlickText said on average, people, “Click, tap or swipe on their phone 2,617 times a day.”
These statistics matter, as they show how phone addiction has dominated our lives, even
altering of their habitats.
Road deaths are a major cause of death for animals. Roadkill will be a harsh new reality for some of these animals with the addition of roads to these lands. The construction of new roads will stop animals from reaching their homes or destroy them completely.
These habitats can becomesubject to alterations, creating a border in the habitat that results in higher predatory rates for animals like birds and frogs.
Light, noise and chemical pollution from roads negatively affect animals as well. Car noises can interfere with bird communication, and light can obscure a sea turtle’s path to the ocean.
Not only does rescinding the Roadless Rule harm wild-
when using our phones could injure or kill someone.
Car manufacturers and companies like Apple have introduced ways of using one’s
“Phone addiction has dominated our lives, even when using our phones could injure or kill someone.”
Michal Kate Castleman Managing Editor
phone without using it. Car companies also put screens inside of vehicles, allowing for systems like Apple CarPlay, a Bluetooth connecting system
life, but it impedes on popular recreation areas.
These federal forest lands aren’t just occupied by wildlife, but are used by people to experience nature unaffected by industry. The lands are used for everything from hiking and climbing to skiing and paddling.
Logging and construction of roads threatens these lands and the opportunities for experiencing untouched forests and wetlands.
To protect these lands for ourselves and future generations, we must take a stand.
Educating others on the potential dangers of the Roadless Rule and calling your local representative to explain the importance of roadless areas to you can help save our public lands before it’s too late.
that displays calling, navigation, music and podcasts.
Systems such as Apple CarPlay are a better alternative to someone trying to switch their music or make a call while driving, but they still promote the need to use a device when you are driving. Despite the appeal of a hands-free system, moving your phone onto a screen into your car can be just as distracting.
Staying off your phone while driving is not a new concept, and we should be following these laws seriously. States implement “No Touch” laws because dangerous situations can occur even if you are stopped in your vehicle. The laws put in place are not just a casual safety rule — they are warnings of the dangers that can arise from distracted driving.
BRANDI SPANN Opinion Editor
MICHAL KATE CASTLEMAN Managing Editor
DYLAN HEMBROUGH Editor-in-Chief
AUDREY O’RENIC Sports Editor
CHLOE WOLFE Lifestyles Editor
SAM MUREN Podcast Producer
SOPHIE HAWKINS Online Editor
TAHZIVE AVI ISLAM Graphics Manager
DYLAN HEMBROUGH editor-in-chief
There is a concentration camp on U.S. soil, and some Republicans all the way to the top have made their intentions for the fate of immigrants clear.
President Donald Trump toured this camp, “Alligator Alcatraz,” last week, suggesting on live TV that inmates at the facility might be eaten by alligators if they attempted to escape.
“I guess that’s the concept,”
Trump said when asked about whether or not detainees would be eaten by the alligators. “This is not a nice business.”
Many news outlets are referring to this as a “joke,” but, like many of Trump’s “jokes,” this only legitimizes a cartoonishly evil idea. These are real, living human beings he is talking about.
Shortly after this, far-right political activist Laura Loomer, a close ally of Trump’s, said the alligators would be guaranteed “at least 65 million meals.” Many were quick to point out that,
President Donald Trump, Florida Governer Ron DeSantis and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem tour a migrant detention center, dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” located at the site of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in Ochopee, Florida, on July 1, 2025.
| Courtesy of Andrew Caballero-Reynolds / AFP
We cannot let American concentration camps become normalized
while there are not 65 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., there are roughly 65 million people of Hispanic descent as of 2023.
People in power know that their words hold more sway than the average person’s do. Violent rhetoric — even “jokes” — can normalize ideas that would otherwise be morally reprehensible.
This comes as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law by the president on the nation’s birthday, vastly expands the power and funding of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. ICE will be receiving an additional $75 billion for its operations and for future detention centers, like Alligator Alcatraz.
That’s a whole lot of money for what is quickly becoming a secret police force at this point. Already operating with little oversight and near-total anonymity, ICE has detained at least 56,000 people, according to NPR. Half of the detainees have no criminal record whatsoever, despite rhetoric from government officials suggesting otherwise.
ICE has also been detaining U.S. citizens, though this is still a rarity. That said, the Trump administration is looking at taking drastic steps to remove citizenship from people who already attained it, effectively “de-naturalizing” them and making them “undocumented” again.
Even taking this administration at
face value and believing that this process would only be used against people deemed a “potential danger to national security,” this vague wording — straight from the Department of Justice’s memo on this topic — opens the doors for a very broad interpretation of what constitutes a national security threat.
As we have seen the last few months, the Trump administration is targeting people who have spoken out against it. Take for example Mahmoud Khalil, who was a peaceful protestor at Columbia University’s pro-Palestine encampment, and Rumeysa Ozturk, who submitted a letter to the editor criticizing her university’s response to pro-Palestine protests. Both were detained. Thankfully, both have been released on court orders, but they are not isolated incidents.
Zohran Mamdani, who just won the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City, is now the center of national debate on the validity of his citizenship and the possibility of stripping it away. These discussions are based on nothing but his political affiliation, and that should frighten anyone who claims to love freedom.
The Trump administration has demonstrated that it will stop at nothing to reshape America in its own political, social and racial vision. We cannot allow them to normalize the idea of mass deportation for dissent. People are people regardless of their nationality or political beliefs.
Nostalgia has an influential grasp on popular culture — to a fault
BRANDI SPANN opinion editor
In a cultural moment where original concepts for art like Ryan Cooglers’ ‘Sinners’ (2025) and Charli XCX’s ‘Brat’ (2024) are trailblazing new paths in their respective industries, nostalgia’s pervasive impact on the box office and billboard charts needs to take a backseat.
Nostalgia is everywhere. Trends and fads from past decades tend to make their way back into the mainstream. The digital age only seems to be speeding up this process.
The attention economy makes it all the more difficult for entertainers to appeal to audiences. Our divided and distracted attention makes digital advertising a complicated and sometimes desperate endeavor. By relying on nostalgia, popular culture industries are able to depend on positively associated iconography, music and crazes that audiences will likely engage with.
Popular culture is oversaturated with live-action movie remakes, song re-recordings and fashion trends that move in and out of style at the speed of light.
While this is not necessarily a bad thing, it does put a damper on the advancement of entertainment. Rather than create new stories, culture is recycling old ones.
Sometimes remakes put a twist on the story or experiment with the art
form in a new way, making it an artform in and of itself. But, more often than not, the remake ends up struggling to surpass the beloved original product.
Take, for example, Disney’s live-action revamps of their classic movies. Though it won Academy Awards, ‘The Little Mermaid’ (2023) lost Disney $4.9 million.
“The cuteness of the characters in the animated original is one of the reasons why it became a fan favorite, whilst their computer-generated counterparts put off many viewers,” Forbes wrote.
“The Lion King” (2019) had an impressive theatrical run, indicating that the story is still very much a fan favorite, but the success cannot compete with the original film.
“In essence, the original ‘Lion King’ dominated theaters in a way that is simply not replicable today. The ‘Lion King’ remake may continue to break box office records, but it won’t sell nearly the same amount of tickets in the U.S. as the original,” Forbes wrote.
Efforts to modernize ultimately fall short of the charm and originality that the debut films brought to the culture. So, why do we continue to attempt reproductions? Why do we cling to nostalgia?
Reproducing the magic of the past has been found to be a method for drawing in a crowd and ensuring the return of the audience that existed the first time around — bringing with them their purchasing power.
Perhaps a result of our desire to feel reminded of a simpler time, nostalgia’s grasp on the human psyche is compelling enough for artists, creatives, recording labels and film companies to return to time and time again.
Albums like Joni Mitchell’s “Court and Spark” (1974), Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong’s “Ella and Louis” (1956), Led Zeppelin’s “Led Zeppelin IV” (1971) and The Beatles’ “Abbey Road” (1969) have been remastered in recent decades to improve their sound quality and reintroduce the timeless records to new audiences.
“It’s important to recognize [nostalgia’s] enduring influence on our culture and to celebrate the timeless stories and experiences that unite us across generations,” Medium wrote. “Nostalgia, in all its forms, is a testament to the enduring magic of entertainment and pop culture.”
Nostalgia marketing has been a successful tactic for performers like Taylor Swift, who has been able to bring cherished, top-charting tracks of the 2010s back into the limelight with the re-recordings of her albums.
Creating any form of entertainment in an entirely new way to the same widespread audience is nearly impossible. It’s no wonder culture relies on tried and true methods to spread and sell art.
But we have to make sure that we use nostalgia for innovation rather than fostering a cultural echo chamber. After all, art is political. With a revamp of de-
cades-old images and memories comes outdated political associations and cultural emotional affiliations that disconnect us from our current moment.
Popular culture has experienced waves of celebrity tabloids and social media sites romanticizing thinness, encouraging a culture of disordered eating. Fashion trends like athleisure and baby tees place an emphasis on thin silhouettes and bodies, rather than actual style.
Revivals of “historically accurate” films from decades that placed whiteness on a pedestal complicate conversations about whitewashing, race and visibility in media. History is not exclusively white, and art should not be either.
The trending cultural obsession with the “tradwife” and the values of the “manosphere” hail from a nostalgic approach to tradition that perpetuates harmful, socialized ideas about gender and power.
The positive emotions associated with nostalgia for a time gone by can sometimes only be positive feelings for groups of people who were acknowledged during those decades. Still, nostalgia is ever-present in pop culture, now more than ever.
As technology continues to advance and social trends phase in and out of our attention, we should recognize where we are limiting ourselves while also celebrating the timeless art and stories that artists and creatives have produced for our culture.
Baseball for the blind World Series to take place at SIUE
AUDREY O’RENIC sports editor
The week-long National Beep Baseball Association World Series tournament kicks off July 20 in Edwardsville and Caseyville.
“Beep Baseball is an adaptation of America’s pastime,” SIUE alumni and CEO of MindsEye — the Belleville-based non-profit organization co-hosting the event — Jason Frazier said. “Every batter in the [NBBA] world series has some level of vision loss.”
This year’s world series will feature 19 teams, ranging from every corner of the United States to Taiwan.
“Games start with a rankings list based on how they did in the regional tournaments this year,” Frazier said. “On Tuesday, [teams] are basically defending their seed that day, and then the next day is where we start double elimination.”
Edwardsville is the first non-major city to host the World Series since the 1980s.
“MindsEye Radio is very unique as far as a host,” NBBA President and Bayou City Heat player Richie Flores said. “This is the first time, at least since I’ve been around, where we made a contract with an organization that specifically serves blind people.”
MindsEye began as a radio service for people who are blind or visually impaired and has grown into a regional leader in accessibility.
“You’re kind of making sure that that viewer, that person who’s blind or was impaired, is still getting the whole experience,” Frazier said.
In 2017, MindsEye shifted towards doing adaptive athletic demonstrations at schools for people who are blind. Two years later, Frazier was introduced to the Beep Baseball World Series.
“At that time, I knew about it, but not the depth of it,” Frazier said. “Upon getting to that first World Series in Wichita [I noticed] the players of the sport play at such a high level — it’s bigger than what I ever thought it was.”
With the support of MindsEye, the St. Louis Gateway Archers team was formed in 2019 and has competed in the National Beep Baseball Association ever since.
St. Louis native and Gateway Archers player Demetrius Morrow discovered Beep Baseball while attending a program at the Colorado Center for the Blind.
“My roommate … knew about Beep Ball,” Morrow said. “The World Series was going to be in Denver that year. He contacted the people that were in charge … and took me out to practice in April, and I’ve been hooked ever since.”
Morrow played with Colorado’s team for 15 years, then the San Antonio Jets for two more, before joining the Gateway Archers in 2022.
“[The Gateway Archers] are one of the better organiza-
tions in [the NBBA],” Morrow said. “All the resources they have — personal training, nutrition, team outings like going to [St. Louis] Cardinals games — [I’ve met] a whole new group of people.”
Morrow said the opportunity to play competitive sports as he was losing his eyesight gave him hope.
“As I was losing my sight as an early teen, I didn’t know if I would ever be able to play sports again,” Morrow said. “Knowing that I could still do things that I dreamed of as a kid at a high level and be rewarded for the hard work that I put into something gave me everything that
I thought I lost as I was losing my eyesight.”
Flores said MindsEye and The Lighthouse for the Blind St. Louis have brought NBBA and the MLB together.
“Last year we had a few of [the St. Louis Cardinals] players show up and watch our game,” Flores said. “It was just really neat to finally, really connect baseball with beep baseball.”
Flores also said a lot of blind people are on an individual path and Beep Baseball allows for connection.
“For a lot of us who are blind, we’re always on an independent path, trying to learn how to do things on our own and
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be our own,” Flores said. “Being part of [Beep Baseball] has really taught me how to think about others — how to not only achieve and win as a team, but also learn when you know you suffer some losses as a group, and you know how to pick each other up and be positive.”
The tournament will run July 20-26 at the Glen-Ed West Soccer Complex in Edwardsville and Reiniger Memorial Soccer Park in Caseyville. For more information and volunteer opportunities, visit the MindsEye website.
“We play with each other on the field, but off the field, we’re still family,” Flores said.
Athletics has built a family culture at SIUE, setting up their teams for long-term success
SAM MUREN podcast producer
Sports at SIUE reached a new level of success during the 2024-25 season, driven by the family-like culture built within the different teams.
Multiple teams for SIUE showed significant improvement or continuing success built on from the season prior. Most notably, men’s basketball and men’s soccer made the National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament. However, they don’t stand alone.
Both baseball and softball placed second in Ohio Valley Conference standings — softball just two runs shy of claiming the OVC Championship title. Softball and volleyball also punched an OVC playoff ticket after both teams missed during
the 2023-24 season.
Along with the newfound success for certain teams, others continue to show resounding success year-to-year. Tennis, golf, wrestling and men and women’s track seemingly set higher bars for themselves each year.
While much of the success belongs to the skill and determination of SIUE’s athletes, the systems and coaching staff of the Cougars have earned their share of credit.
Men’s head basketball coach Brian Barone drew a spotlight during the NCAA run for the focus on family-like environment in the locker room. This sentiment was on full display during his postgame interview on ESPN+ after beating Southeast Missouri State University for the OVC
Championship when Barone embraced now graduated player Ray’Sean Taylor.
The results of Barone’s coaching style showed on the court and off, as Barone was selected as Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Co-Coach of the Year.
Barone’s team wasn’t alone. For consecutive seasons, men’s head soccer coach Cale Wassermann has embedded a family style bond that has driven his team to two Bronze Boot wins, two OVC Regular Season Championships and two OVC Championships leading to NCAA appearances.
Barone and Wassermann are just two examples of head coaches that seem to have found the recipe for success — in both cases, the main ingredient feels like the family atmosphere the
team has.
SIUE should stick to this recipe to propel the program’s success. They need to further support the coaches that use this model or find other coaches that will for all their teams.
This value for a tight-knit bond within the locker rooms is invaluable for SIUE. A team with good chemistry has a higher chance for athletic success than a team without.
Taylor was the only Cougar this year to win an OVC Athlete of the Year award.
This proves the fact that SIUE doesn’t often carry a roster with one player that just dominates. Even in the case of Taylor, he was surrounded by players that worked well with him.
Not only is the element of family important for SIUE teams on the field or court, but
it is vital for the business side of sports as well. Given new hurdles like the transfer portal and the fact that SIUE is a medium sized school, establishing a culture that gives players a sense of belonging will be attractive to new and current players.
The recent success has been refreshing for Cougar fans this last year, but it could easily come and go by next season. However, given the culture SIUE has been building, it feels as though many of these teams could be on a path for longterm success.
Time will tell if SIUE Athletics and the coach staffs have implemented the right strategies for keeping players. With the recent successes, it would be wise to continue to push a family culture in the athletic programs.
Alfonso Medrano of the Bayou City Heat releases a pitch. | Courtesy of Jason Frazier