Junior becomes Hillsdale’s first Truman scholar
By Jacob Beckwith Sports Editor
Junior Ashley Poole was named a 2025 Truman Scholar on April 18, marking the first time a Hillsdale student has received the prestigious national award.
Poole, a Texas native, is one of just 54 students selected from across the nation this year for the scholarship, which honors college juniors who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and a commitment to public ser vice.
“When I heard that I had gotten it, it was a really fun day, and I was very taken aback by how excited everyone was for me,” Poole said. Each college or university may nominate up to four juniors for the Truman Scholarship. Finalists are chosen from each state based on the student’s home state. Poole was one of 11 finalists from Texas, and was ultimately one of two selected from the state, though most states nominate
‘Wild’ Bill Lundberg to retire after 40 years
By Grace Brennan Collegian Reporter
After 43 years of filming commencements, sporting events, and Centers for Constructive Alternatives, Director of Technical and Media Services Ted Matko retired April 18.
“For those of us fortunate enough to have worked with him, Ted provided not just technical guidance but a model of professional integrity and personal character,” Jerry Wayne “J.W.” Newson, a former coworker of Matko, said. Hillsdale College President Larry Arnn said Matko often impressed visitors with his abilities.
“Many times when radio people running national shows have visited, the technical people would mention that Ted is extremely competent,” Arnn said. “He knows everything about his work. I think many of them wanted to hire him away. It is a blessing that he stayed.”
Since Matko started working for the Dow Center and CCA office in 1982, the world — and the college — have seen many technological developments.
“For the CCAs, it was only audio recording at that time, so my office consisted of two audio cassette recorders, two real recorders, and a video VHS camcorder,” Matko said.
Newson said the way Matko embraced change over the years is what has allowed him to do great things.
“What makes Ted Matko truly exceptional is his perpetual willingness to evolve. Throughout his illustrious 40 plus year dedication to Hillsdale College, he has consistently embraced new technologies and methodologies, constantly refining his skills and expanding his capabilities,” Newson said. Before classrooms had electronic devices permanently set up for the efficiency of teaching, Matko and a few students put together a delivery service at the bottom of Kresge, an old classroom building that was located behind Central Hall, for professors in need of electronic devices.
“Over the years, the office slowly grew and I started an audiovisual delivery service that would take overhead projectors and VHS recorders to the classrooms for the professors,” Matko said. “We
throughout high school, competed in the 1980 Olympic trials as one of the top five contenders but ruptured his Achilles tendon during the race. He began coaching at Hillsdale in 1985.
In 1994, Lundberg earned the honor of NAIA National
By Charlotte Knobloch Collegian Freelancer
Hayden Park Director
“Wild” Bill Lundberg will retire at the end of the semester after 40 years of coaching and teaching at Hillsdale College.
“It’s exciting. It’s the time to be moving forward with that decision,” Lundberg said.
Hillsdale College President Larry Arnn said Lundberg “is one of the sweetest and most enthusiastic people.”
“He loves to talk with people,” Arnn said. “Once he met Pat Sajak and hustled off to get him some track swag. As he presented it to Pat, talking a
blue streak, the track team was behind him making the sign made in the movie business to stretch out the show. Of course the team was impressed to meet Pat, but mostly they were enjoying watching Bill exude.”
Lundberg said the biggest reward of teaching was being with the students.
“Being a part of our student life, teaching in our sport studies department — it’s been a blessing,” Lundberg said.
Lundberg has been teaching Physical Wellness and Dynamics since he retired from coaching men’s cross country and track and field coach in 2011.
Lundberg, a track athlete
ing to his office hours at Hayden Park,” Harvey said. “He offered me a drive back to Olds Residence in his golf cart, and he told me all these fantastic stories about his family and his running career the whole ride back. Wild Bill is truly such a treasure and will be so dearly missed by all of us.”
operated out of a small room at the bottom of Kresge.”
As the college’s electronics became more advanced, Matko traveled to 22 cities to record events and promote the college.
“I traveled around the country as we did about 22 cities with the NLS programs and the Churchill dinner in Washington, D.C.,” Matko said. “As the crowds got larger, I brought in an outside staging company called Show Ready Technologies to help with set up and the lighting while we provided all the video recording and the sound gear.”
With new technology available on campus, Matko requested to have a control room built in Plaster Auditorium that would allow him to record from anywhere on campus.
“We put fiber all over campus connected back to the control room so we could record events from the Dow Center, classroom buildings, the athletic facilities, the library, the student center, and Dr. Arnn’s office,” Matko said.
Hillsdale makes video series with White House
By Olivia Pero Outreach Director
Hillsdale is partnering with the White House to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with explanations of the history and meaning of the Declaration of Independence through text, audio, and video.
The White House Salute to America 250 Task Force and the Department of Education asked Hillsdale to help create a series of videos telling the story of America’s Founding in celebration of the country’s 250th birthday, said a high-level college administrative member.
Hillsdale helped begin the effort with an introduction from College President Larry Arnn and a video on the Battle of Lexington and Concord by Professor of History Wilfred McClay. Both videos are now available on the White House 250 website.
“President Trump and Secretary [of Education Linda] McMahon are determined to help all Americans remember, understand, and celebrate this unprecedented milestone,” Arnn said.
McClay said the country recently observed the 250th anniversary of the battles at Lexington and Concord this month, which initiated the American Revolutionary War, also called the War for American Independence.
“I tried to sketch a big-picture view of why the war came about, why irreconcilable differences arose between the British North American colonies and the mother country, and the specific events that led up to the battles at Lexington and Concord,” McClay said.
McClay contrasted the freedom-loving colonists, who were accustomed to ruling themselves, and the British leaders, who were trying to reorder their country’s relationship with its colonies. There were also the British troops, who lacked the skills of maneuver and marksmanship of the Americans.
“The battles were a great American triumph — which was a good thing, since so much of the rest of the war would be difficult and uncertain,” McClay said.
By Francesca Cella Collegian Reporter
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, students and professors reflected on the legacy of his 12-year papacy as the Roman Catholic Church awaits the election of his successor.
“I especially appreciate his warnings against reducing human beings to functionaries within a profit-driven economy, his appreciation for the natural world as a theophany of divine wisdom, and his desire to bring to Christ those on the margins, most vividly practiced in his custom of washing prisoners’ feet every year on Holy Thursday,” said Jordan Wales, associate professor of theology. “This, for me, will be the image by which I remember him, as I return also to his writings to rediscover the unique lights they shed on the faith.”
David Whalen, associate vice president for curriculum and professor of English, said Francis’ heart for the marginalized is memorable, but he said it’s too close to Francis’ papacy to make many judgments.
“It takes time for a legacy to develop, so it probably is too soon to say much,” Whalen said. “However, he may well be remembered for his desire to champion the afflicted, to govern closely, and to promote certain critical ambiguities.”
One of 29 people confirmed in the Roman Catholic Church at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church this Easter, sophomore Bradley Haley said Francis’ death is an immediate reminder of Christ’s fidelity to Christians.
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“Wild” Bill Lundberg and his wife Sharon have been married 41 years.
Courtesy | Bill Lundberg
Ashley Poole is one of five Truman scholars from a liberal arts college.
Courtesy | Ashley Poole
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Pope Francis emphasized humility in his papacy.
Courtesy | Unsplash
College Republicans to honor WWII veterans with booklet
By Carly Moran Senior Reporter
The College Republicans plan to create a commemorative World War II booklet of Hillsdale campus community veterans in what they hope will become a new tradition for their group, said College Republicans President and sophomore Josiah Jones.
“The executive board of College Republicans knew that we wanted to do something commemorating 80 years since our victory over the Axis tyrannies, because such a milestone will only come once,” Jones said.
The project, officially titled “80 Years of Victory: A Salute to Hillsdale College’s World
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“On Saturday night, we all pledged to accept the beliefs and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, and one of those important beliefs is that the church is the bride of Christ,” Haley said. “With the pope’s death less than 48 hours after the vigil and an upcoming conclave, I think this is a good opportunity for us all to keep in mind that ultimately Christ is in control and will protect and guide his church.”
Professor of Politics Ronald Pestritto said Francis’ papacy is an example of the decline in orthodoxy since the 1960s.
“Pope Francis represented one of the last gasps of that older generation of progressives who have urged compromise with some of the most destructive elements of our culture — and because he has stacked church leadership with the last remnants of this older generation, it is not unlikely that the old force will retain its position for a time yet,” Pestritto said. “Meanwhile, it is our duty to pray for the repose of the soul of the Holy Father — being pope is a job that I would not wish on anyone — and also our duty to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the selection of his successor.”
Sophomore Luke Hill, the incoming head of Catholic Society men’s outreach, said people will remember Francis’ humble papacy and his desire to remove any barriers between him and other people.
“I think what will be most emphasized was his radical humility,” Hill said. “Not only did he preach that humility was ‘at the base of Christian life,’ he actively lived that reality: Choosing the papal name Francis after St. Francis of Assisi, living in the Domus Sanctae Marthae (a Vatican guesthouse), wearing simpler liturgical vestments, driving a humble Ford Focus, and opting to greet crowds outside of the ‘Popemobile.’ On that last point, the pope said, ‘I cannot greet people and tell them
How to:
passed on. We are looking for the name of the veteran, branch served in, and picture, if possible, of the family member or members.”
In addition to obtaining stories of students’ and faculty’s ancestors, the club officers are currently working to obtain a list of alumni who served in World War II from the Hillsdale College Archives and Special Collections. The club is open to expanding the project to the community.
is about my great-uncle, 1st Lt. Joseph Adamow, who was in the 69th Squadron of the Air Force stationed in Papua New Guinea,” Adamow said. “In August 1944, his plane crashed over KarKar Island and his parachute landed in a tree.”
Her great-uncle was soon rescued by the local tribe, where he lived for three months until he reconnected with his squadron in November 1944.
CHRio to feature carnival theme, live music from band HARBOUR
By Jayden Jelso Collegian Reporter
War II Heroes,” will close submissions on Monday, May 12. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to submit their relatives’ names and photos, living or deceased, to the project through a submission form on their Instagram, or by QR code on posters or while tabling. The goal is to distribute the booklet on Sept. 2, which is V-J Day, when Imperial Japan surrendered in 1945, ending World War II.
“So far, we have 40 submissions and we are looking to reach 50 or more,” communications chair and freshman Kathryn Vieceli said. “Many professors have reached out to us with their family members that served, whether living or
that I love them from inside a sardine can, even if it is crystal.’ That line reflects the heart of love and charity he had for all the people of the world.”
Senior Paul Sri, current head of men’s outreach, said Francis had a beautiful perspective on encountering others.
“One particular quote from his apostolic exhortation ‘Evangelii Gaudium’ has stuck with me, where he calls the art of accompaniment ‘to remove our sandals before the sacred ground of the other,’” Sri said. “I hope the spirit of Christian accompaniment continues to grow in the church in Pope Francis’ wake.”
Sophomore Lizzie Putlock, incoming vice president of Catholic Society, said Francis’ emphasis on living with Christian charity has contributed to her life.
“He truly had eyes for and attention to the poor, calling us on to see Christ in each person we meet,” Putlock said. “I remember in middle school he instituted a Year of Mercy, and my school decided to do a ‘kindness challenge’ in response to it, the fruit of which I still see in my life today.”
After a 15-day mourning period, 135 cardinal electors will gather in the Vatican to vote on the next pontiff. They will vote in secret until one cardinal receives a two-thirds majority vote. When a pope is elected, white smoke rising from the Sistine Chapel will signal the cardinals’ decision.
Professor of Theology Mickey Mattox said Catholics should consider the blessings of Francis’ papacy while praying for his successor, remembering that Christ is guiding the church.
“We should remind ourselves the Lord holds his Church securely in his own hands,” Mattox said. “So, thank God for Pope Francis. And pray that God’s purposes for the church may be done in the ministry of the next Roman pontiff.”
“The main inspiration came from the hometown hero street lamp banners, which many towns do to honor veterans who called the town home,” Jones said. “Since we don’t have street lamp banners here on campus, we decided to do a booklet.”
Sophomore Maria Adamow said she recently submitted the story of her seven great-uncles who all fought in World War II, two of whom obtained Purple Hearts.
“I thought it was so amazing that they thought to honor our relatives in World War II,” Adamow said. “It’s only been 80 years, and we are already forgetting the participation of so many of our family members in this great conflict.”
Adamow said she submitted a family favorite to the project.
“My favorite story to share
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According to Newson, Matko’s decision to connect the campus with fiber optic cables ended up serving the college on a scale far larger than Matko had intended.
“During the darkest days of the COVID-19 era, Ted’s insight and technical foresight led to Hillsdale College becoming one of only two institutions worldwide to successfully hold an in-person commencement event,” Newson said. “With characteristic vision, Ted had the entire campus laid with fiber optic cable to ensure seamless connectivity years before this event occurred.”
Newson said Matko showed great resilience and unwavering commitment to his duties through events like COVID, losing his wife, and fighting cancer.
“In moments of such personal tragedy, one’s true character is revealed, and Ted’s revealed a man of exceptional fortitude and grace,” Newson said. “Is Ted stubborn? Absolutely. But as I’ve learned throughout my career, all the great ones are. This quality —
Coach from A1
Lundberg said he has seen the college grow exponentially since 1985.
“The expansion of things that are happening are pretty neat in a lot of ways,” Lundberg said.
Lundberg said he admires the school’s progress, especially with the work of Arnn.
“It’s the greatest school in the land with the greatest president one could have,” Lundberg said.
Lundberg said he held every athlete to a high standard. According to a post on the Hillsdale Chargers website, every team under his coaching achieved a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3.
Besides pushing his athletes for academic excellence, Lundberg said he prioritized a relationship with God.
“I love my family first and foremost,” Lundberg said. “I love the Lord.”
“He remained friends with one of the natives, ‘PoPo,’ until his death in 1996,” Adamow said. “I think it is beautiful that, though this was a time of tragedy and death, a lifelong friendship was forged between people of vastly different cultures.”
Adamow said this project is a way for the college community to emphasize its values.
“Our veterans could be honored in Hillsdale’s community more, especially because our college consistently shares its commitment to freedom and liberty,” Adamow said. “Without our veterans, we wouldn’t even be able to study here at this wonderful campus. I hope we continue to discuss those we know in the armed forces who protect us every day, and we never forget their importance to our lives that we are privileged to live today.”
this unwavering commitment to his vision and standards — is precisely what has enabled him to build systems and solutions that stand the test of time.”
Matko said professionalism is important in any job and has been a highlight.
“I’ve always enjoyed the process of getting things organized and set up, making things look as professional as possible,” Matko said.
During his time recording CCAs and commencements, Matko has met many famous people who have tested his ability to stay professional.
Matko’s favorite actor and comedian, as well as the voice of Buzz Lightyear, Tim Allen gave a commencement speech May 8, 2021.
“That’s what it means to be in this position,” Matko said. “Regardless of who the speaker is, you don’t get starstruck.”
Even though Matko met Allen with professionalism, he could not resist asking Allen to sign one of his Buzz Lightyear collectibles. Matko has more than 200 Buzz Lightyear figures that have recently been relocated from being displayed
Although thankful for his opportunity to coach, Lundberg said he originally wanted to be an architect. Instead of designing buildings, Lundberg said he dedicated his career to building up people.
“People have helped build me in my life. I wanted to give back to them as a thank you,” Lundberg said.
He said his goal remains to “build the Lord’s kingdom and build up others.”
Senior Anna Baldwin said she and her siblings, senior Maggie Baldwin and sophomore Jack Baldwin, took Lundberg’s Physical Wellness and Dynamics class and Lundberg still remembers them.
“It’s a lot of fun to run into him around campus or Hillsdale when we’re together,” Baldwin said.
The siblings once ran into Lundberg at Udderside, Baldwin said.
“We talked to him for a long time, and before he left,
Centralhallapalooza will kick off on Saturday, themed after the famous Rio Carnaval festival, with visiting band HARBOUR set to appear.
“The theme is CHRio,” junior Gray Turner, member of the Student Activities Board, said. “Imagine a blend of the colorful aesthetics of the annual Rio Carnaval festival blended with the vibrant colors and vibes of the infamous ‘Rio’ movie. So, lots of feathers and fun decorations.”
Turner said the Student Activities Board wanted to have an unusual theme.
“We wanted to allow for fun decorations, and we think that the colors associated with the Rio Carnaval will make the aesthetics of this event be really unique and vibrant,” Turner said. Turner said she is most excited for the live music.
“The student bands that will be playing are so talented and always sound amazing,” Turner said. “I am also excit-
in his office on campus to his home. Matko said he plans to keep collecting in his retirement.
“Eventually I will display them,” Matko said. “I will keep looking, I’m not one to go on the internet and look for more, but when I go to Meijer or Walmart, I’ll walk down the toy aisle and see.”
Matko said he plans to spend his retirement resting from the surgery he had for his cancer.
“My plans are to get my strength back, and I will figure the rest out as we go,” Matko said.
Newson said he believes the technological growth Hillsdale will experience in the upcoming years will be due to Matko’s work and innovation.
“His influence extends far beyond the cables he ran or the systems he designed, touching the careers and lives of countless individuals who carry forward the lessons he imparted,” Newson said. “In this way, his legacy continues to grow and evolve, much like the technology he has mastered throughout his extraordinary career.”
he said a prayer over us, which was so encouraging because we’d had some hard things going on around that time — which he had no idea about,” Baldwin said. “That’s just the kind of encouraging presence he is.”
Lundberg said service to
ed about the visiting band. I knew a few of their songs in high school, like ‘Judy You Hung the Moon,’ and I think their vibe is upbeat and indie, so I am excited overall to listen to good live music.”
Freshman Maddie Hanson said she is excited to experience her first Centralhallapalooza.
“As a freshman, CHP is such an exciting thing,” Hanson said. “We’ve been looking forward to it since we got here. We’re bringing a great band, thanks to SAB, and the openers are going to be exciting, like the Crisis Actors. It will also be fun to see the last time the Schizmatics perform on campus.”
Centralhallapalooza will take place in the Sports Complex parking lot on Saturday, April 26th, from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m.
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According to McClay, there will be lectures about a great many important events in America’s history leading up to July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the date of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“It was a great privilege to do this and really quite awesome to have the lecture taped in the beautiful Indian Treaty Room at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, a truly historic place,” McClay said.
McClay said he hopes Americans will see and understand why it is so important to remember these events, and why remembering them is a part of remembering who and what they are as individuals and as a nation.
“The founders of Hillsdale College joined the cause of Abraham Lincoln in council rooms and on battlefields to rededicate the nation to the Declaration,” Arnn said. “We are proud to give every assistance in our power.”
“I
Lundberg said. “I love our Chargers — it’s so cool to be connected to our men and women. I’ll be coming back. I’ll be around. As we say, go
A retirement party open to campus will take place April 30 at Hayden Park from 2-5 p.m.
love Hillsdale College,”
Pope
Videos
Lundberg (front) finished third at a relay race in 1977.
Courtesy | Bill Lundberg
The College Republicans hope to receive 50 submissions.
Courtesy | Josiah Jones
in
City News
Four candidates enter summer mayoral race
A special election will be held in August, followed by a run-off in November
By Thomas McKenna & Charles Hickey City News Editor & Collegian Freelancer
Four candidates filed to run in Hillsdale’s Aug. 5 primary election for mayor, which will begin the two-step process of choosing former Mayor Adam Stockford’s successor.
The deadline to get on the ballot passed Tuesday, and the candidates are Ward 3 Councilman Matthew Bentley, former Election Commission member Cathy Kelemen, former Mayor Scott Sessions, and Ward 4 Councilman Robert Socha. The top two vote-getters will be on the general election ballot Nov. 4. The elected mayor would finish Stockford’s term through 2026. To serve longer than a year, the mayor would then run in the August 2026 primary and November 2026 general elections.
Stockford stepped down in December shortly before moving outside the Hillsdale city limits. Just before Stockford resigned, Paladino defeated Ward 2 Councilman Will Morrisey in a 5-4 council vote to become mayor pro tem. Paladino has been serving as acting mayor since December but told The Collegian last week he will not run in August.
The Candidates Bentley said in an interview his campaign is focused on two mottos: first, “It’s the people,” and, second, “Roads, roads, roads.”
“‘Roads, roads, roads’ being no bike lanes, lower the SADs, and fix the roads,” Bentley said, referring to the city’s use of Special Assessment Districts to fund road repairs. “That’s our No. 1 job: the roads.”
Kelemen announced her candidacy at the April 21 city council meeting but could not be reached by The Collegian for comment.
“I live, work, and worship in the city. I have no political agen-
da,” Kelemen said at the meeting. “I just would like to be a voice for the people of the City of Hillsdale.”
Sessions, who served as mayor from 2013 to 2017, said his experience in lo cal politics makes him the most qualified candidate out of the four.
“I have served in the position of mayor for four years, and I would step right in, day one, with that experience,” Sessions said. “I was also on the planning commission for four years, along with three years on the city council from 20112013. I have that experience.”
Socha also pointed to his experience, including his four years on the city council.
“I will be able to take the criticisms, maintain civility and decorum in the council chamber, and maintain the council’s direction over the city manager when he provides the city’s recommendations,” Socha said. “We can move forward in a way that will be beneficial to all the citizens.”
City Engineer Kristin Bauer. Moore, in an interview with The Collegian, cited “the drama of the negative,” and Bauer, in her resignation letter, pointed to the “negative culture being developed” by some city council members, including Bentley and Paladino.
Sessions said he would look into the possibility of bringing Moore and Bauer back on staff, and defer more to city staff as mayor.
“I would like for the council and the mayor to be more respectful of city staff because right now leadership is browbeating the staff, and that was brought up at a meeting,” Sessions said. “Let the city manager, who knows how to run the city, run the city. He needs to do his job, and we need to let him do his job.”
Kelemen told The Collegian she had not been in politics before.
“I‘m just a resident,” Kelemen said. “This would be my first time being in politics. I look at the role of mayor as more of a community service position, not a political venue. My goal is just to serve.”
City Staff Sessions said he was motivated to re-enter politics by the resignations of two city employees in the past month: Airport Manager Ginger Moore and
Bentley said he sees a conflict of “the city staff versus the people.”
“I’m solidly on one side. I’m with the people,” Bentley said. “The city staff needs to understand that the elected officials represent the people, and the people will be heard.”
Socha said recent reports of division between the city staff and the council are overblown.
“There’s an old adage that perception is reality,” Socha said. “I don’t believe anyone on the council is intentionally trying to be divisive or argumentative. I think we’re all serving to try to better the community. Unfortunately, in some of the discussions and exchanges, they’ve gotten a little heated.”
Road Repairs and SADs
As mayor, Sessions said his top priority would be continuing to repair Hillsdale’s roads
and streets. He said he supported Special Assessment Districts, which require each property owner in a designated SAD to pay up to $5,000 to fund road repairs on their street.
Sessions said he personally paid $5,000 for the Westwood Street SAD and that either ending SADs or lowering the price cap would discriminate against residents, like him, who have already paid for road repairs.
SADs a “really big question.”
“I can‘t really give you a solid answer without taking a deeper dive into the city budget and seeing if there are areas that can be reformed to allow some changes,” Kelemen said.
“I believe it’s unfair to change it halfway, so some people pay more and some people pay less,” Sessions said.
Bentley said he would rather reform, not end, the use of SADs.
“I think there’s a middle ground, at least a transition,” Bentley said. “If we lower the caps to say, $3,000 — at least for most pro jects — the anger and the rage that people feel against special assessments would go way down, because they know they need the roads.”
The ‘Road Diet’ Socha expressed mixed support for the “road diet,” a city proposal which would use state funds to slim down Broad Street to three lanes, end direct access from Hillsdale Street to Broad Street, and add bike lanes.
While Socha said he was “indifferent” on adding bike lanes, he said he supported a middle turning lane for both directions.
“I like the idea of three lanes on Broad Street,” Socha said.
Since the city’s budget is smaller compared to its neighbors, Socha said he thinks SADs are the city’s best option now. But he also said he would like to fund road repairs differently in the future.
“We have to work with what we have,” Socha said. “In order to make constant progress on the roads and infrastructure, even as little as it is, the special assessments are a necessary component at this point. Hopefully, we can find a way to fund our projects without them in the future. But there’s just not a viable alternative right now that I’ve been shown.”
Kelemen called reforming
“I live on Broad Street. I have to turn left into my home. Having a protected left lane for those left-hand turns is a good idea.”
Sessions said he was concerned about the safety of the plan.
“They say that it’s supposed to be safe,” Sessions said. “I’m worried that it’s not going to be safe, that somebody might get hurt, like a bicyclist. That’s my main concern.”
Although the mayor does not have the executive power to stop the plan on his own, Bentley said he would use his position to build public opposition to the project.
“I can bring attention to it, and I can call the citizens to action,” Bentley said. “I have evidence that the people of Hillsdale want neither the bike lanes nor the road diet.”
Dawn Theater accepting management bids
Companies have until May 19 to submit proposals for running the venue
By Tayte Christensen Assistant Editor
The Dawn Theater Governance Board is accepting proposals for management of the Dawn Theater until May 19 at 3 p.m., the group announced this month.
The previous owner, CL Real Estate Development, backed out of its 10-year lease agreement in February, leaving the Dawn Theater Governance Board to find new management for the property, The Collegian reported previously.
Dawn Theater Governance Board Chair and Professor of Theatre James Brandon said the city’s Tax Increment Finance Authority primarily
By Cassandra DeVries Collegian Reporter
Market House Supermarket will feature glow-in-the-dark firefly petunias grown in Hillsdale County May 2 and 3.
wants a party who will manage the space and make a business out of the venue.
“They want somebody that has the wherewithal to run a business of this nature,” Brandon said. “In an ideal situation, there are conglomerates that run small venues like this. So I would hope maybe a few of them would throw their hat in the ring. There may be some local entities that want to do that. So it’s seeing who’s out there, and then hopefully having a range of proposals to choose from.”
Proposals must include a cover letter, a company profile, an operational plan, a financial plan, and references, according to the city’s request for proposal.
Once a candidate applies, Friends of the Dawn Theater Chair Mary Wolfram said several TIFA committees will review the application, asking for more information as needed. Following the initial assessment, the committees will present chosen candidates to the full TIFA board for approval and negotiation with the winning bidder.
Zoning Administrator Alan Beeker declined to comment on the number of submissions the committee has received so far, but said there is not a limit as to how many proposals the board will accept.
The current management contract ends June 17, and Brandon said there will likely be a gap between that date and
when the new management takes over, resulting in a decrease of programming at the theater during that time.
“Most of these events are going to be planned months out,” Brandon said. “So a new entity coming in in June isn’t going to magically start booking events the next week.”
Brandon said the ad hoc management structure will help to schedule potential events from June onward, but said he hopes the board will determine a permanent manager quickly. This, Brandon said, depends on quality candidates.
“It’s kind of a mess, but it’s not a transition anyone was expecting to make,” Brandon said. “CLRED was adamant
about a 10-year lease, and nobody thought we’d be in this position.”
Wolfram said she is optimistic about new leadership in the space and said she hopes the new manager will be friendly toward the Friends of the Dawn’s community events.
“I’m hoping that we get some good proposals from some qualified candidates,” Wolfram said. “This is a great opportunity for someone to provide a service to our community and make a fair profit. They will be getting a brand new, recently rehabilitated, beautiful building in which to stage weddings, meetings, performances, and other events. Really, the sky’s the limit.”
Council ends street repair plans
By Sydney Green Collegian Reporter
The Hillsdale City Council voted unanimously to reject the Barry Street road repair project at its Monday meeting.
“The people who wrote the letters rejecting the project are still opposed,” Ward 4 Councilman Robert Socha said at the meeting. “That is why I am going to have to be a ‘No’ on this.”
Barry Street was originally scheduled for repair this summer, but a majority of the street’s residents opposed a plan to create a Special Assessment District that would have required homeowners to pay up to $5,000 each for repairs to the dilapidated road. The decision came after extended discussion last month about possible solutions.
At the March 3 city council meeting, Acting Mayor Joshua Paladino proposed using extra funding from the Capital Improvement Fund, the new endowment from Hillsdale College, and the new SAD policy to offset the costs homeowners would have to pay. According to Paladino, this would have reduced the costs from $5,000 to under $3,000 per residential property. But other council members and City Manager David Mackie opposed this proposal. Mackie said he was concerned it would show bias to certain districts and not others.
“Using this policy to treat other areas differently is disingenuous. You are taking money out of the general fund to prop up a certain district as opposed to all the other districts we have done,” Mackie said. “This is what the government is for, to treat everyone the same. I feel like where we are going with this is inappropriate for the rest of the districts.” The council postponed discussion of the new proposal to the March 20 meeting and then agreed to vote on the SAD establishment April 21.
Ward 2 Councilman Will Morrisey said at this week’s meeting that the vote was long overdue.
“We should put this to rest because we have offered this to a number of neighborhoods over the years and this one and the previous one are the only ones that refused it,” Morrisey said. “I think this should be a government by the consent of the governed, and if they don’t want the special assessment, then that should be it.”
to Market House in May
“These plants that were worthy enough for Time magazine’s front page were grown right here in our local community,” Boyd said. “So we just want to have a lot of fun and celebrate this awesome thing in Hillsdale County.” Glow-in-the-dark flowers coming
“I’ve been working with plants for 25 years,” said Susie Raker, owner of RakerRoberta’s Young Plants. “The firefly petunias are the coolest and most magical thing I’ve ever seen.” The flowers were developed by a team of engineers working
for Light Bio, a company that creates and sells bioluminescent plants. The researchers isolated a gene in a bioluminescent mushroom in South Africa, which had DNA similar to petunias. They genetically modified the petunia to glow in the dark like the mushroom, according to Raker.
Market House designated May 2 from 4-6 p.m. as “an exclusive Ladies’ Night experience,” which will include hors d’oeuvres, charcuterie boards, wine tasting, live music from
local musician Russ Martin, and a Kentucky Derby hat contest.
Market House will open the event to everyone May 3. The wine tasting and charcuterie boards will be supplemented with bourbon sampling from the bourbon trail, and more live music, according to owner Brett Boyd. Both evenings will prominently feature the firefly petunias.
“We’re always looking for ways to diversify our business, so we reached out to Rakers in
Litchfield,” Boyd said. “We fell in love with the fresh local flowers and cutting-edge technology all combined into one. We couldn’t be more excited about the events that we’re going to do to celebrate them.”
Boyd said there will be a dark room full of flowers to allow guests to see the plants glow throughout the evenings. Experts on the flowers will be available both nights to explain how the glow-in-the-dark flowers were created and how to care for them.
Light Bio reached out to Raker’s farm to collaborate on bringing the glow-in-the-dark petunias to market.
“They contacted me because of our capabilities with shipping plants directly to homeowners, and a great partnership was born,” Raker said. “We ended up shipping out 120,000 4-inch pots in spring of 2024.”
Raker said the firefly petunia got its name from the unopened flower buds, which use most of
the plant’s energy just before opening and therefore glow brightly, resembling fireflies. The flowers were featured in Time magazine’s innovations for 2024.
Councilman Matthew Bentley. Courtesy | City of Hillsdale
Cathy Kelemen. Courtesy | Facebook
Scott Sessions. Courtesy | City of Hillsdale
Councilman Robert Socha. Courtesy | City of Hillsdale
NFL Draft benefits from NIL
By Lewis Thune Collegian Reporter
This year’s NFL Draft is the culmination of a new era that dawned three years ago in college football. While this new age has been extremely detrimental to college football, it will make this year’s draft, and the many drafts in years to come, all the more entertaining for NFL teams and fanbases.
Money has heavily affected college sports since the much-addressed and long-decried “Name, Image, and Likeness” era with its thinly-veiled pay-forplay contracts and absence of transfer rules, but NFL teams are surely very happy about it. While it’s cost them some late-round talent — many potential picks stay in college for NIL deals more lucrative than the NFL rookie contracts they would sign — the prior presence of money, influence, and mobility gives NFL teams sorely needed context for their top early-round targets.
In previous eras of NFL football, draft day was a dangerous time. Franchises had some idea of how their picks would handle fame, as there was fame enough in college football. What they lacked was the equally important knowledge of how their prospects would change when plucked from the modest financial state of their collegiate athletic careers and faced with the volatile, big-dollar market of professional sports.
Money changes people — and for NFL franchises, every player’s ability to make money in a different jersey does a number on athletes: Terrell Owens, Brett Favre, and Richard Sherman are prime examples. NFL teams had to wager a guess on how millions of dollars might alter the priorities of the dedicated student-athletes they were interested in. Franchises would often steer clear of players with volatile streaks like Johnny Manziel or LeGarrette Blount, and of braggarts like
Brian Bosworth. Occasionally, there were teams that would take risks on troublemakers like Jameis Winston or Jim McMahon, and on peacocks like Deion Sanders. And with players like Baker Mayfield and Troy Aikman, it ran deeper: could they adapt to a new coach and system? Could they gel with the roster around them? Could they be trusted to remain loyal to their team?
Some panned out — earning their living on the gridiron refined them. Some did not, and the teams which selected and paid them rue the days they did so. But those days are gone now. The dawn of NIL and the unlimited transfer portal in college football gives organizations a great understanding of what they’ll be signing up for on draft day. Draft prospects today spent their collegiate careers in the pro football free trial that college football has become.
Some, like Boise State University’s Ashton Jeanty, did so in humility and silent
confidence, earning respect from loyal fans, like a future Green Bay Packer. Others, like the University of Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, did so in an unapologetically flamboyant manner, creating and exciting new audiences, like a future Dallas Cowboy. NFL teams got to see it all: Will Johnson’s undying loyalty, Cam Ward’s stalwart drive to win, Cam Skattebo’s relentless heart, and Kyle McCord’s unflinching response to derision.
Despite the effect that this seismic shift has had on college football, pro teams will rejoice at what it has unveiled: definitive answers as to who is obtainable, who is adaptable, who is agreeable, and who is loyal. At long last, when NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announces who’s on the clock, an organization’s only guesswork will be whether players can match up against professional opponents. The resultant surprises, sleepers, and slides will delight viewers.
Games
The following words are in the grid up, down, left, right, and diagonally.
Once you've
Baseball Chargers split against GMAC frontrunners
By Elaine Kutas Collegian Reporter
The baseball team lost 10-3 to Davenport University in Grand Rapids on Tuesday, following a weekend in which the Chargers split a pair of doubleheaders at home with Great Midwest Athletic Conference leader Northwood University on Friday and Saturday, with a 5-0 loss and 6-1 win Friday and 1-0 win and a 6-2 loss on Saturday.
Friday started with a 5-0 loss, but the Chargers rallied and came back for the nightcap, with freshman Will Lehman hitting a two-run home run with two outs to score sophomore Rocco Tenuta. Sophomore Aaron Jasiak had four hits from his five at-bats over the course of the two games Friday, leading the Chargers offensively.
On Saturday, sophomore pitcher Jacob Pallo led the Chargers to the win by pitching a complete seven-inning game and allowing only one hit. Hillsdale's defense backed Pallo up with an error-free performance and a timely double play to end a threat in the top of the fourth. According to head coach Tom Vessella, Pallo’s breakthrough has been a long time coming.
“We always knew that Jacob had the potential to pitch like he did against Northwood,” Vessella said. “He has had some really good starts and others that we'd all like to forget, but he has done a fantastic job this season with his preparation and simply focusing on his next start for the team.”
Pallo was named the G-MAC North Division baseball Athlete of the Week for his performance over the weekend. Pallo said through
this season, especially with the close losses, he has confidence to reach the championship game.
“The main challenges for me have been consistency on the mound and throwing strikes,” Pallo said. “I have had some good outings and a couple of bad ones. The way I worked through them was by staying true to my style of pitching. Short-term memory is also how I have been able to overcome some of the challenges. Yes, bad days happen, and it’s good to have the drive to get better, but not dwelling on it is important too.”
Assisting in the one-run win were back-to-back singles by Tenuta and freshman Gaard Swenson. After an error by Northwood and a sacrifice fly by senior Zak Kent, Swenson was brought in for the only run of the game.
According to Swenson, this win has helped the morale of the team as they look to the G-MAC championship tournament.
“Looking to the end of the season, I hope that we make it to Prasco Park in Cincinnati and show the rest of the conference how good our team is by putting up a tough fight in the tournament,” Swenson said.
The Chargers are now No. 4 in the G-MAC standings with a 14-10 conference record.
Hillsdale will travel to Tiffin University to play the Dragons in a four-game series on April 23-24. Then, the Chargers will play another four-game series against the Ashland University Eagles at home May 2-3 to round out their regular season.
Photo of the Week
Sophomore Aaron Jasiak tags a runner during a game against Northwood University on Friday. Courtesy | Reva Ludwig
Charger Sports
Russell sets records as Chargers enter playoffs
By Ellie Fromm Assistant Editor
Senior pitcher Joni Russell set a Great Midwest Athletic Conference record with her 24th career shutout on Saturday, and broke a 35-year-old Hillsdale record by earning her 66th career win on the same day. She now has 67 wins to her name.
On Tuesday, she set a new school record in innings pitched, reaching her 600th inning in her college career, and breaking the previous record of 593 innings. Junior Emma Sather also matched the 1991 Hillsdale single-season bases stolen record with her 31st stolen base.
Russell was awarded the G-MAC softball Athlete of the Week for the second consecutive week and fifth time this season. This is the 13th time in her career she has received this award.
“It was a great way to cap off senior day,” Russell said.
“It was probably one of my favorite games to pitch at sunny Johnny Williams not only because I broke two records, but becauseI could feel the love and support from my friends, coaches and family that day. College softball is not easy, and it comes with its many challenges, but I have been able to persevere and grow as a person and athlete because of the people beside me.”
Director of Athletics John Tharp said these records showcase Russell’s commitment over the last four years.
“The record tells you her greatness, not for one year, not for two years, but in her four years here,” Tharp said.
“It represents how she's gotten better every single year. And I think it just talks about her dedication to the sport, to her physical ability. But I also think it just demonstrates her mental strength as well, that she's done that for four straight years, and
she keeps on getting better and better.”
Head coach Kyle Gross said he thinks Russell has the chance of being induct -
here at Hillsdale, and even some of the other pitchers that may be in there before, they have a couple records,” Gross said. “But I think an -
ed into the Charger Hall of Fame in the future.
“I think she's solidified herself in the history books
other record she might hold is that she holds the most records.”
The Chargers went 4-2
in their week of competition. On Friday, they beat the Ohio Dominican University Panthers in the first game 4-1 and lost the second game 6-3. Then, on Saturday for Senior Day, they beat the Eagles in both games of the series, 8-0 in the first game in five innings and 6-0 in the second game. Russell broke the shutout record and Renae Schaffner’s ’90 career wins record in the games against the Eagles. The Chargers then split their doubleheader against the Malone University Pioneers on Tuesday, winning the first game 3-0 and dropping the second 13-3 in six innings.
“We played probably our best two games of the year on Senior Day,” Gross said. “And I think it had a lot to do just with the energy and the support from the underclassmen for their seniors. That was a theme throughout the day too, but all the seniors contributed offensively or
defensively that game, and it was really neat to see. It was one of our best senior days.”
The Chargers are No. 3 in the G-MAC and have clinched a spot in the Great Midwest Softball Tournament April 30-May 3. The Chargers have a 15-5 conference record. They are ranked No. 4 in the NCAA Division II Midwest regional standings.
The Chargers will face the Cedarville University Yellow Jackets away on April 24 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. They will then play an away doubleheader against the Walsh University Cavaliers on April 26 at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
“There’s a lot about Joni and a lot about some of these other things,” Gross said. “But our team, as in the team itself, is doing really well right now with the fourth regional ranking and we just need to continue to play at that level.”
Dannhauser shines as women sweep at home
By Tayte Christensen
Assistant Editor
Charger women’s tennis
posted a 4-0 sweep against Ashland University at home April 19, adding to a weekend of Charger athletic wins over the Eagles.
Earlier in the weekend, the Chargers also won 4-0 against the Cedarville University Yellow Jackets April 18.
“The team walked into both matches this weekend
with a ‘let’s just get it done’ mentality,” senior Libby McGivern said. “We wanted to win and knew that we could, and that’s what we did. Everyone played with a lot of confidence.”
Sophomore Ané Dannhauser earned the title of Great Midwest Athletic Conference women’s tennis Player of the Week for the fourth time this season, winning all four of the matches she appeared in this weekend.
“This was honestly such a great weekend to end on,” Dannhauser said. “We took care of business and did exactly what we needed to finish our regular season and secure the three seed.”
In Friday’s match against Cedarville, Dannhauser and freshman Briana Rees took a 6-3 win at the No. 1 doubles spot. Dannhauser and Rees are currently ranked No. 19 in the NCAA Division II. Meanwhile, senior pair McGivern and Courtney Rittel won 6-4 at the No. 2 position.
“We were put together this weekend at the last minute due to a sickness on the team and we just played so well,” McGivern said. “It was an awesome way to win as seniors together.”
Freshman Julia Zlateva made her doubles debut at No. 3 doubles this week, and partnered with junior Bella Spinazze to win 6-1.
“Julia did so well,” Spinazze said. “She stepped into her role in doubles seamlessly. She was a beast at the net and very consistent at the baseline.”
The Chargers also dominated in singles against the Yellow Jackets and won all three matches.
At No. 1 singles, Dannhauser was leading 6-2, 4-1 but her opponent retired due to an injury. Rees won her
No. 3 match 6-1, 6-0, and Rittel took a 6-0, 6-0 sweep at No. 4 singles.
On Saturday against Ashland, the Chargers honored seniors McGivern and Rittel in their final home match.
At No. 1 doubles, Dannhauser and Rees won 6-2, while McGivern and Rittel dominated 6-0. Spinazze and Zlateva took another 6-1 win on the weekend at No. 3 doubles.
“Our whole team came out so confident in doubles, which really set the tone for
both matches,” Spinazze said.
In singles against the Eagles, the Chargers won every match.
Dannhauser swept 6-0, 6-0 at No. 1 singles, and in the No. 2 spot, McGivern took a 6-2, 6-0 victory. Rees won the No. 3 match 6-3, 6-0.
“My energy was great and I just had a lot of fun out there,” McGivern said. “I knew it was my last weekend of home matches so I wanted to make the most of it.”
The team’s undefeated weekend secured the No. 3
seed in this week’s G-MAC Tournament, where the Chargers will face No. 6 seed Thomas More University in Owensboro, Kentucky, in the first round of tournament play Thursday.
“We played well and did a good job of handling the nerves, and I hope we are able to do that this week,” Dannhauser said. “I’m super excited to travel with the team and see what we can do.”
From left to right: sophomore Medleigh Danchak, junior Taylor Lewis (facing away), and senior Emma Vis in a game against Malone University on Tuesday. Courtesy | Tiffany Treppa
A8 April 24, 2024
Russell on the mound against Malone University on Tuesday. Courtesy | Tiffany Treppa
Head coach Nikki Walbright speakes to the team durning matches on Friday.
Courtesy | Kenneth Gaudet
Freshman Briana Rees on Friday against Cedarville University. Courtesy | Kenneth Gaudet
Softball Women's Tennis
C U L T U R E
Rough Draft to feature local artists at ‘An Afternoon of Art’
By Skye Graham Collegian Reporter
Artworks of Hillsdale, a nonprofit group, will host “An Afternoon of Art,” at Rough Draft May 4 from 12-4 p.m, featuring art by local artists.
The group, located in Studio 42 which shares a space with Rough Draft, intends to promote local artistry in the community and economically support mixed media artists by hosting events that feature their work.
“We’re looking forward to showing the community the talented artists that live and work here,” board member and local artist Karen Mark said. “We want to educate the community about what we do, and to attract artists to participate in our weekly drawing sessions and to join our organization.”
“An Afternoon of Art” is sponsored by Woman’s Life Chapter 747 and County National Bank.
Mark said the event will feature fine art pieces using different media, including oils, colored pencil, acrylic, and mixed.
There will be realism, impressionism, and abstract art,”
Mark said. “In other words, we’ll display things that appeal to all.”
According to Mark, all the work shown at “An Afternoon of Art” will be available for purchase. In addition, many of the artists will be accepting commissions at the event.
Kim Farnham, also a board member of Artworks, is one of the artists participating inthe event. Farnham said the pieces she will showcase each took around 25 hours of focused work.
“I’m a realistic colored pencil artist, attempting to create lifelike work by carefully layering and blending colors,” Farnham said. “The result is artwork that looks almost photographic, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty in every detail.”
Farnham said she is excited to see the work of other local artists, and hopes to gain inspiration from those working with different media.
“Each artist brings a unique perspective and approach, shaped by their chosen medium,” Farnham said. “This presents a valuable learning opportunity to observe artistic techniques, explore unfamiliar materials, and gain insight
into how others solve artistic challenges.”
Farnham said she is happy to explain her creative process to any guests who attend.
“It’s set in a very welcoming venue,” she said. “Guests
are invited to relax and enjoy a beverage or a snack while browsing an inspiring collection of artwork from some of the area’s finest creatives.”
Hunger Games prequel adds depth
By Jayden Jelso Collegian Reporter
Suzanne Collins released the first prequel to her popular “The Hunger Games” series in 2020, and now, she’s back with another. Though an additional Hunger Games novel seems repetitive, Collins’ second prequel “Sunrise on the Reaping” delivers an entertaining, action-packed, and thought-provoking installment. Between the events of “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” and the first novel of the original Hunger Games trilogy, the 50th Hunger Games looms over the nation of Panem. The Second Quarter Quell — a twist version of the Games held every 25 years — is upon them, and this year, twice the usual number of tributes must compete. Sixteenyear-old Haymitch Abernathy finds himself reaped as one of the male tributes from District 12, and his journey through the games cements him as an early rebel, dedicated to breaking the Capitol’s arena by destroying its power source.
Abernathy’s character arc is a strong point of this book. Collins seamlessly takes him from a caring — albeit rebellious — teenager to the flippant drunk we all know from the original trilogy. Young Abernathy loses everything and everyone he ever loved. His story is arguably more tragic than Katniss’ because he fails in setting off the spark of revolution.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” follows a similar plot structure to the first novel in the series, “The Hunger Games,” rendering it a bit familiar, but packed with differences. The arena is one of the most unique settings in the series — an expansive, flowery meadow, surrounded by a beautiful forest, with a snow-capped mountain in the distance. But the arena’s beauty hides a deadly secret: everything is poisonous. The tributes are forced to restrain themselves from eating off the berry bushes or drinking from the sparkling stream, as they will die instantly if they do. On top of that, it’s game over if anyone gets caught in a swarm
of ladybugs or butterflies.
Helping Abernathy along his journey are many returning characters like Mags, Wiress, and Beetee. The novel strengthens the series’ cohesiveness by using these characters to bridge the gap between the other prequel, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” and the original trilogy. President Coriolanus Snow is as intimidating as ever, and whatever humanity he had in “Ballad” is stripped away entirely in “Sunrise.”
These returning characters are also the weakest part of the novel. The appearance of Effie Trinket added nothing to the overall story and took up time that could have been used to further develop Drusilla Sickle, her predecessor. By the time Trinket shows up, a plethora of other familiar characters had already made appearances, so her inclusion in “Sunrise” was unnecessary fan-service that bogged down the pacing.
The book succeeded in its thought-provoking commentary on propaganda and media censorship. Before entering
Bon Iver releases more good music
By Ally Hall Design Editor
When one’s mastery of melancholy is celebrated for years, it’s difficult for one’s bliss to feel anything but trite.
And yet, indie folk frontman Justin Vernon of band Bon Iver manages to fortify his sonic character with new depth following the release of his two-part record, “SABLE, fABLE” (April 11).
Vernon released Bon Iver’s debut record, “For Emma, Forever Ago,” in 2007 which launched the group into the limelight. The subsequent release of the group’s eponymous album “Bon Iver” (2012) emboldened its status with widespread adoration and a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. Bon Iver released two more albums, “22, A Million” (2016) and “I,I” (2019), both recipients of critical acclaim.
Vernon is a bigwig in the music industry, collaborating with artists such as Taylor Swift and Kanye West. To the public eye, he has remained unwavering in the heights of artistic and popular success.
/ right now / And everything is peaceful love / And right in me.”
Here, Vernon surrenders to love through an action, suggesting another possible definition for the first portion of the album. Sable is not just a color, though. Sables are also small mammals proficient in climbing. The repeated chorus of “Everything Is Peaceful Love” with the tree imagery reflects Vernon’s willingness to engage with the darker parts of himself and actually facilitates deeper relationships with others. He ends “Everything Is Peaceful Love” with the lyrics, “And I know that someday you may / change someway / I couldn’t rightly say / That’s for parting ways.” These lines act as a final admittance to the possibility of change and endings, but does not allow room for that variability to hinder the potential for connection.
the games, Abernathy takes it upon himself to try and break the arena. It is his attempt at bringing hope to the districts, and while he partially succeeds in his goal, none of it is shown on TV. All his rebellious exploits are edited out of the final version. No one — neither the Capitol citizens nor the districts — knows what he does. Through this, Collins communicates her belief that the media controls every narrative, and therefore has its hands in how people think. It is a haunting and timely message that, no matter what one does to rebel, if the media controls the narrative, it cannot be beaten.
“Sunrise on the Reaping” stands as a worthy installment in the popular “The Hunger Games” series. Despite a few weaknesses scattered throughout, it adds depth to characters fans already know, especially Abernathy. Collins does not deliver the greatest novel in the series, but she certainly delivers another entertaining and thought-provoking narrative.
But according to his website and the track breakdown for “SABLE, fABLE,” Vernon struggled with playing “the part” of Bon Iver, especially when his creative project had turned into a character archetype and way of being.
The first portion of the album was released last fall. “SABLE,” a word meaning a dark brown color and represented by the smaller portion of the album cover, chronicles Vernon’s process of healing, an unraveling of pent up gloom into a bridge that ushers listeners into a more hopeful second half of the album.
“Everything Is Peaceful Love,” the second track on the latter portion of the album, sounds like the song Bon Iver — architect of some of the saddest songs of the 21st century like “Skinny Love” and “For Emma” — might make.
“Everything Is Peaceful Love” overflows with fluctuant joy. Vernon hones in on the uncertain element of love, the decisions that face all listeners at some point in their romantic lives. He grapples with a willingness to give into a new relationship, wondering if it is going to “hang around.” Vernon sings in the chorus, “But damn if I’m not / climbing up a tree
“fABLE” is a sprawling outreach of clarity and newness for Bon Iver, represented by the salmon-colored perimeter of the album cover. It keeps Vernon’s aura intact, one rich with complex production and glimmering brass, but it also adds a layer of lyrical dimension his discography hasn’t seen yet. Motivated by a new sense of purpose and meaning, “fABLE” is a collection of pop songs like “Walk Home” and ballads like “If Only I Could Wait” with Danielle Haim.
The first song of the album is an instrumental track titled “...”, setting the stage for Vernon to tackle over the nine songs. The album ends with another instrumental track, “Au Revoir.” These act as intentional resting places for the listeners to mark the complete experience. You start in the dark, squared center and with each song, broach the larger pink border that encompasses the former. Even in the album artwork itself, Iver promises a wealth of positive experiences in “fABLE” beyond the engulfing nature of “SABLE.”
“SABLE, fABLE” is a holistic portrait of where Justin Vernon — and by extension, Bon Iver — is in the modern age. Audiences have looked to him for years to chronicle the shadows, the deep bouts of grief, and the pain of longing. And now, they can look to him for much more than that.
Professors’ Picks: Larry Arnn, president of Hillsdale College
Nicomachean Ethics (340 B.C.) (assuming one would still have access to the Bible)
Of course, the ethics must be there. And the Bible.
Faure Requiem (1890) (also, relying upon one’s memory, “still doin time” and “he stopped loving her today,” George Jones)
The Sanctus movement of the Requiem is a sublime achievement. The voices rise up like angels. I’m not really qualified to understand George Jones because I have not been unfortunate in love. But as near as I can get to understanding it is to listen to him sing about it. Also, I have a truck now, which puts me in his world, even if it is an electric truck.
A Man for all Seasons (1966) (also, relying upon one’s memory for the details, “Young Frankenstein”)
“A Man For All Seasons” is in my opinion one of the great performances of one of the great stories. Paul Schofield is wonderful. Some fraternity boys did something naughty once, and we sorted it out. Then they asked if they could come over to watch a movie. I showed them that one. I told them it was a story of faith and understanding put into action. They should emulate it. “Young Frankenstein” is pitch perfect.
Compiled by Isaac Green Managing Editor
Arnn’s yearbook photo from grade school. COURTESY | Larry Arnn
“The Retiree” by Karen Mark COURTESY | Karen Mark
f e a t u r e s
AC isn’t Olds’ only challenge
Dorm culture thrives sans working washing machine
By Megan Li ASSISTANT EDITOR
Freshman Marta Günsche
o en gets up at 3 a.m. when she wants to do laundry.
“Washing my clothes is more important than sleeping,” Günsche said. “And it’s always open.”
Such was the predicament of the 80 residents in Olds Residence, where one of the dormitory’s two washing machines broke March 28.
Freshman Ashley Luke described the situation as a “dog-eat-dog world.”
“I sat in the laundry room on the table that you put the clothes on, and I was reading ‘Inferno.’ It felt like inferno,” Luke said.
Luke said sophomore Olds Resident Assistant Lucy Hicks came in with a new load right as Hicks’ washer nished — the washer Luke had been hoping to use.
“I was like, ‘Please, Lucy, no. I have no clean clothes, please,’” Luke said. “Then we shared, and we put everything in. We gured it all out.”
Freshman Lyndi Klacik said she and her friends have made schedules to get a load in.
“ ey said, ‘OK, I’m gonna wake up at 5:45, I’m gonna get my load. en by the time you wake up at 6:30, then you can put in your load,’” Klacik said.
Luke said she has been taking her laundry to her
tially because I just never think it’s going to be open, I don’t check as much,” Klacik said. “I’m just scraping by. Every time I tried to go and do it, it’s been like, nope.”
But Klacik has come out of the experience with tips and tricks.
“ e strategy of waiting is good, or setting a timer until someone nishes, and saying, ‘Tell me the moment you pull it out, please,’” Klacik said. “If you’re committed, you could do it. If you’re not committed, you’re gonna end up in my situation.”
Luke said the table in the laundry room is a good study spot as well, but Hicks said it took skill to do your laundry during those times.
“It’s hard if you don’t have blocks of time,” Hicks said.
Hicks said if residents don’t want anyone touching their laundry, they need to be there as soon as the timer goes o .
“If you are not there, your laundry will be moved,” Hicks said.
According to Günsche, the women used to have a physical list, a “queue” by the machine for the people that wanted to go next, but that did not last.
“No one respects the queue,” Hicks said. “If you’re there, then you put it in. No one’s gonna wait for you to get there.”
e broken one on Upper Level had been turned to face the wall, blocking anyone from opening the door.
“Because someone would
“If you leave or you’re coming back, you always just say hi to the girls and get to know them, or sit down, and there’s always people in the lobby too,” Amelie Oeverman said.
Before living in the dorm, Luke said she knew Olds had its problems, but she also knew the strength of the bonds that grew between its residents.
“I heard that there was no air conditioning, and I was like, ‘Oh, boy.’ But then I also heard that it was amazing,” Luke said. “ e open door policy, which is a really big part of Olds, works, because our doors physically don’t close, like in the newer buildings. Because of the re code, they swing shut. We don’t have that until you keep them open, so people leave their doors open and you can just pop in and be like, ‘Hey, how’s it going?’ and distract people from their Great Books reading.”
Klacik said the college had given her Kirn Residence as a living option, and she was determined not to put Olds down as her preference — until senior Maggie Baldwin changed her mind.
“She’s like, ‘It’s literally the best.’ I was like, ‘ ere’s no AC. I don’t do well in the heat.’ She’s like, ‘You’ll survive,’” Klacik said. “She convinced me, and now I’m gonna be an RA.”
Olyvia Oeverman said the residence’s maintenance
“I sat in the laundry room on the table that you put the clothes on, and I was reading ‘Inferno.’ It felt like inferno.”
sibling’s o -campus house, and Hicks said she did the same thing at Kirn Residence last year — when both Olds washing machines broke during Homecoming Week.
“ at was the chant: “No AC, no washing machine” — that’s how that one came out, because we had no AC, and we actually had no washing machines,” Hicks said. “It was 80 degrees.”
According to junior and Head Resident Assistant Olyvia Oeverman, college maintenance crews replaced the Upper Level washing machine April 10. Neither Oeverman nor the house director, Ava “Mama A” Ramuni, used the washing machine while there was only one.
“I didn’t want to take it up for other people,” Oeverman said. “Mama A is just one of us, she is with us during the highs and the lows.”
Oeverman said she has been reminding the dorm’s residents that trying to do all their laundry in one load could over ll the machine, making it stop working.
“ e problem just compounds itself or builds on itself because then people are trying to get their laundry done in less loads,” Oeverman said. “We’ve been trying to communicate that with the girls, and they’ve been doing a great job.”
Klacik said she had about four to ve loads of laundry waiting to be done in her room.
“Partially because schedules are not lining up, par-
try to use that — some desperate person,” Klacik explained. “They were not entirely functional to begin with.”
e dorm’s ice machine, shades, and kitchen tools also follow that same trend, according to the dorm’s residents. But despite the maintenance issues of the residence, the women of Olds love their dorm with erce devotion. No lack of washing machines, air conditioning, or communal cutlery will change that.
Klacik said the “on duty” RA — a rotating schedule of RAs who sit at the desk every night to monitor the lobby and supply aid to the residents — is always doing something fun.
“You come out here, and you’re like, ‘Oh, I’ll just be out here for ve minutes,’”
Klacik said. “And then literally, next thing you know, it’s been two hours. ere’s 10 girls sitting around where you come and go, and it’s really great, because there’s not a lot of pressure around it, and you’re just hanging out.”
Oeverman said since her freshman year, the biggest change has been the increased inclusivity of desk culture.
“It’s good for it to be a resource to everybody in the dorm,” Oeverman said. “My appreciation for Olds has grown every year.”
Freshman Amelie Oeverman said the building’s one exit and entrance builds that sense of community.
with Peter Jennings
struggles have become part of its quirks.
“It’s amazing to see how those values and the way we do things have stayed really consistent,” Olyvia Oeverman said. “ e positivity and joy and appreciation for our unique culture has stayed super, super strong.”
Olyvia Oeverman said experiencing the maintenance di culties has also strengthened bonds within the dorm. While there are hard nights and complaints, Oeverman compared the experience to a family looking back and laughing about the trials they have gone through.
“ e culture just expands on itself when you come in and you have RAs that are excited and so joyful, and then acknowledge the maintenance issues, the old building, the no AC, and just laugh about it together,” Olyvia Oeverman said. “It’s like the inside joke that other people know about, but you almost take pride in it a little bit. We’re stronger for it.”
Olyvia Oeverman said Olds residents can carry that energy and culture into the new residences they will live in next year.
“It’s such a special home to be in, but I also just love talking about other dorms and how the women of campus can come together and see each other’s strengths, and how people can love us and laugh with us at our no AC,” Olyvia Oeverman said.
By Sarah Katherine Sisk SENIOR REPORTER
Peter Jennings, associate professor of leadership studies and chair in business administration talks white labs, the soldiers’ monument, and Gettysburg.
If you could replace all the squirrels on campus with a di erent animal, what would you choose and why?
White labs like Lucas — can you imagine the smiles and joy that would give everyone?
If you could turn any campus building into a giant bounce house for a day, which would you choose and why?
Simpson dorm…but then, that dorm already is a kind of “bounce house.”
If your life had a theme song that played when you walked into class, what would it be and why?
Well, that would be a vanity contrary to good teaching. But, in all good humor, with a big fat tongue in my cheek, play either “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” or “If I Only Had a Brain.”
Walmart, Meijer, Kroger, or Aldi and why?
Outside my domestic lane, but when we need wine, I go to Meijer.
What’s one class you wish you could take as a student?
I teach the classes I wish I could have taken as a student — strong medicine for the heart. at said, I want to take Professor Moreno’s History of Baseball.
If you had to teach an entire class while speaking in rhyme, how long would you last?
Depends. Can I use expletives I learned in the Marines?
What’s your favorite Hillsdale tradition?
Memorial Day service around the soldiers’ monument — but we haven’t done it in 100 years.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Captain James Harrison: “Love your Marines.” It was my rst lesson in what it is to be a real leader. It taught me to slay the ego and eventually led me to the cross.
If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be?
Guitar, so I could make music and not just listen to music with my family and friends.
Dream vacation?
Walk the Holy Land.
What’s one of your favorite college memories?
O ciating the weddings of my students — hands down the most important service and greatest honor.
Who are the most in uential people in your life and why?
On my person, I always have these keepsakes: around my neck is the cross for Christ, on my nger is a ring for my wife Roberta, and on my wrist is a POW bracelet for Admiral James Stockdale. Common thread: love — we are each other’s keeper.
What are your thoughts on AI? Is it more friend than foe?
It is a blessing and curse as all technological advances are.
If you could instantly teleport your students to any historical event for a eld trip, when and where would you take them and why?
Gettysburg, the Wheat eld, July 2, 1863, in order to teach the meaning of the soldiers’ monument and the true purpose of education here.
If you had to enter your classroom via a method other than walking , what would be your signature entrance?
I would walk, but I would take the sandals o my feet because the real pursuit of truth leads us to God.
See Truman A1
Poole traveled to Texas the rst week of March for her nalist interview, held at the Lyndon B. Johnson Library.
“It was an exciting and re ective trip, and we got to sit with our co- nalists the whole day,” Poole said. “ at felt like homecoming — getting to talk to people from all these parts of Texas with a shared passion for making the local communities better. I was so inspired by all of them.”
The Truman Scholarship is awarded annually to approximately 50 to 60 students from accredited institutions. Only five of this year’s recipients attend private liberal arts colleges.
“I am excited I get to represent the liberal arts as one of the few students from a liberal arts school,” Poole said.
Established in 1975, the scholarship serves as a living memorial to President
Harry S. Truman and supports students who plan to pursue careers in public service. Scholars are selected for their academic excellence, leadership ability, and dedication to improving their communities.
Poole, who plans to use the scholarship to attend law school, said she hopes to become a federal prosecutor with the Department of Justice and eventually serve as a U.S. attorney or district attorney in Texas. She said her passion is advocating for survivors of human trafficking and holding tra ckers accountable through the legal system.
“I’m so proud of Ashley,” junior Miriam Ritchey said. “She has taken tangible steps to help individuals who had su ered through human tra cking through volunteer work and policy.
I admire how she is mindful of the needs of her community in Texas and beyond.”
Poole rst reached out to Associate Professor of English Patricia Bart last June to express interest in applying. e application process involved writing multiple essays on public service, leadership, and academics.
“Ashley put so much work into the Truman Scholarship, and I’m so excited that she ended up getting it,” junior Emma Kate Mellors, a fellow Houston native, said. “She was involved in combating the human tra cking problem in Houston throughout high school and has spent so much time dedicating her life to protecting the exploited and preventing future exploitation.”
In May, Poole will travel to Kansas City for a weeklong leadership development program with her fellow Truman Scholars.
“For me, it was an a rmation of what I want to do, and a reassurance that I can do this,” Poole said.
From left to right: Roberta, Peter, Maribelle, Max, and of course, Lucas Jennings pose for a family photo. COURTESY | PETER JENNINGS