Western Courier | April 19th, 2019

Opinions: Should Western consider new leadership?

Sports: Golf team places third in tournament.

WesternCourier.com

Friday, April 19, 2019 - Vol. 119 Issue 79

@WesternCourier

Macomb will add a

second Starbucks

DEVON GREENE/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Above is the former Ponderosa Steakhouse at 1736 E Jackson St. that will become a Starbucks.

By Steven Barnum news editor

A second Starbucks is on its way to the east side of Macomb.

The Seattle, Wash. based coffeehouse chain will open another restaurant at 1736 E Jackson St., which will fill one of the city’s vacant buildings. Ponderosa Steakhouse previously occupied the building but shut down in 2016. Kim Pierce, the Executive Director of the Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation Office (MAEDCO), said that this was not a

new development.

“We spent all that time trying bring a stand-alone Starbucks to town since about 10 years ago,” Pierce said.

“At one point, the deal fell through and we have been trying to get them back into our community.”

Pierce said that the developer who worked on the project was concerned that Macomb wouldn’t be able to support a Starbucks, a notion that she thinks the location in Hy-Vee has dispelled. On top of offering a drive-thru, customers of the new location may also use their reward membership discounts.

The belief that Macomb is not large enough to attract new businesses is common.

Pierce said that the number of citizens to convince businesses that it’s worth coming to that community is usually about 20,000 or more. With the decline in enrollment at Western Illinois University and expected decline in overall population after the 2020 census, Macomb residents may need to be patient.

“There’s no reason why we cannot attract some name brands to our community,” Pierce said. “The 20,000 is a hindrance but as long as we stay around there it will keep

us on the radar for some of those franchises we’re trying to attract.”

When it comes to economic development, Pierce said that it’s important to continue to fill vacant buildings whenever it’s possible.

Some people in the community may push for more variety like a Steak n’ Shake or Sonic, but she said that this Starbucks may encourage additional growth.

“Whether you wanted a burger joint or something else, we think this could entice other businesses,” Pierce said. “If we have an opportunity to increase our sales tax

base and bring in a nationally recognized brand, we are going to do that. That might parlay into getting some other national brands here.

That’s what communities need and want.”

Additionally, Pierce adds that even though businesses like Subway and Starbucks are nationally known corporations, they are often owned by local franchisees.

Starbucks page 3

2

NEWS

WesternCourier.com

Friday, April 19, 2019

Student Government Association announces election results

By Marc Ramirez edge editor

facebook.com

Colton Markey and Daria Levchenko, SGA President and Vice President elect pose for a photo with current Preident and Vice President Grant Reed and Madison Lynn.

WC Located on the third floor of the Heating Plant Annex on the south end of campus across from Sherman Hall.

Mail: 1 University Circle, WIU, Macomb, IL 61455 Phone: 309-298-1876 Fax: 309-298-2309 Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays E-mail: micour@wiu.edu Member: Illinois College Press Association, National Association College Press

Last Friday, the Student Government Association announced the results of the SGA elections that ran the duration of last week. Kelly Rodger, Attorney General took the podium and announced the newly elected president, vice president and Senators-at-Large.

“This year we had an astonishing amount of students that came out and voted,” Rodgers said. “We had over 1,100 votes, this is more than the last two years combined so it is pretty amazing.”

She continued to say that SGA is extremely proud of the candidates’ hard work and dedication to represent the student body. All officers will be sworn in to their newly elected position during the Office of Student Activities Leadership Awards ceremony on Monday.

For the Senator-at-Large positions, three student leaders received the qualifying amount of votes to win the seat in the Senate. Freshman Tyler Pradin, Payton Muhs and Nathan Clark were elected via the ballot on PurplePost.

“Ever since coming to school in August, it’s been important for me to be involved on campus,” Pradin said. “I’ve grown a huge leadership skill in holding an executive board position within the Interfraternity Council and I’ve wanted to expand my involvement, and I’m excited to work with the student body to actively address questions or concerns my constituents may have.”

Students elected to the Senator-atLarge position must post and maintain a minimum of 3-5 office hours per week in the Student Organization Center of the University Union. They must also serve as representatives of the entire student body and coordinate regular meetings with organizations, groups and constituencies across campus in addition to regularly coordinating meetings and

STAFF MEMBERS editor-in-chief Devon Greene DJ-Greene@wiu.edu news editor Steven Barnum

proofreader Amanda Wandachowicz

SS-Barnum@wiu.edu

A-Wandachowicz@wiu.edu

opinions editor Allison Young

photo editor Becca Langys

AN-Young@wiu.edu

RE-Langys@wiu.edu

sports editor Bradley Piros

assistant photo editor Sara Remar

BJ-Piros@wiu.edu

SE-Remar@wiu.edu

assistant sports editor Chris Bean

production manager Jimmy Pierson

CR-Bean@wiu.edu

JM-Pierson@wiu.edu

edge editor Marc Ramirez

business manager Faith Rucker

MA-Ramirez3@wiu.edu

F-Rucker@wiu.edu

copy editor Brie Coder

advertising manager Jacob Day

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JD-Day@wiu.edu adviser Will Buss WJ-Buss@wiu.edu

reporting progress to the Speaker of the Senate.

“I am excited to gain the great experience and knowledge SGA has to offer me as a student,” Muhs said.

Next to be announced were the winners of the president and vice president. Candidates ran in pairs consisting of Colton Markey and Daria Levchenko and Doni Purifoy and Kamren Williams. The groups ran a competitive and close election.

“Both tickets ran an incredible race,” Rodgers said. “It was a tight race, but with 613 votes, our 2019-2020 President and Vice President will be Colton Markey and Daria Levchenko.”

The ballot on PurplePost outlined why the students ran and what they hoped to get out of the position.

“I believe that Western can be the most student-centered, studentdriven campus in Illinois,” Markey’s ballot read. “As SGA’s Director of Academic Affairs and previously as the Director of Public Relations, I have seen the impact that student government can make. The past two years in student government have given me the experience and knowledge necessary to tackle any problem that may arise. I want to create a welcoming environment for student’s voices to be heard by going on an organization tour in order to hear about their problems. When students are unified and advocate together, we can make a difference."

“I am passionate about students having their voices heard,” Levchenko’s ballot read.”It is important that the students are the number one priority on campus. I want to form a group of students that can work with admissions and marketing that can provide effective feedback. I have been meeting with the Vice President of Student Services each month and talking through ideas to bring back to SGA. I would also like to strengthen the bond between the cabinet and the senate so we can be united as one to serve the student body."

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Friday, April 19, 2019

NEWS 3

Scott Harris talks to students about agriculture

By Steven Barnum news editor

Scott Harris, the Vice President of Case IH North America, spoke to students in Stipes Hall about his experience working in the agricultural industry.

Harris is a 1985 graduate of Western Illinois University, where he received a bachelor ’s degree in applied technology. After leaving Macomb, he earned his master ’s degree in retail banking from the University of Virginia. Graduate school may make sense for areas like business or finance, but Harris said it’s just as valuable to develop a strong work ethic.

“I always become a student of the industry that I am in and that serves me well,” Harris said.

“The learning doesn’t end.

When you continue to learn, it becomes rewarding to become an expert in your field.”

Through his managerial experience, Harris has noticed certain qualities that make productive and successful workers. He

Starbucks from page 1

Construction for the project is expected to begin in July and the Macomb community can expect an opening by the end of November.

The contract was finalized on Tuesday.

“We were all excited,” Pierce said. “We think it’s great that they’re willing to invest in our community which will have nothing but positive affects for

thinks that collaboration and giving everyone the opportunity to contribute are important, but perhaps the most important is communicating effectively.

“You have to be able to explain yourself and articulate your ideas,” he said.

“If you don’t have the necessary writing skills, then someone else will do it better than you even if their ideas isn’t as good. Writing is a lost art today.”

Additionally, Harris thinks that it’s critical for those in the agricultural industry to know how to fix the issues that the industry may face.

“You don’t have to know the technology or be an expert to be an innovator.

We’re looking for problem solvers. Everyone can identify problems but we want people who know how to figure out how to solve them,” Harris said.

The challenges to the industry are often diverse and tough to control.

Machinery can malfunction, severe weather can delay productivity and grain prices could temporarily decrease. There also may be times when

demand is too high, which is difficult to keep up with.

“Our business is very volatile and cyclical so quality is a really important factor,” Harris said. “If we have a quality issue, it’s devastating to our business, reputation and relationship with producers. The relationship between dealers and producers is vital in this business.”

Another challenge could be economic decisions imposed by the government. Harris talked about the ongoing trade war that President Donald Trump waged with China, which forced China to get their supply of soybeans from Brazil. As part of the domino effect, the United States has a carryover stock of beans so there will be more corn planted this year.

“The chess pieces are still moving around and eventually we’ll start selling to China again,” Harris said.

“Corn farmers will make more money this year but this should settle out over time. If we get a trade deal done with China, then we will see an acceleration in the industry.”

Previously, Harris also worked in the auto industry, where he had the same philosophy as he does now.

He believes in embracing competition because, in his experience, it forces people to work harder to catch up and excel. Some people may get frustrated by the process, but he welcomes the obstacle.

Harris travels extensively for work, something that he wishes he did more of when he first joined the industry.

Its downfalls include countless nights staying in hotels and navigating through airports, which is tiresome; however, he enjoys meeting people from different regions in the world. He views traveling as a helpful step toward innovation.

“I was always looking for a new challenge and to learn and be motivated by making something new or better,” he said. “Taking on new challenges is what drove me.”

Those who are in the agricultural industry will discover that there are a lot of different areas in the field.

For example, engineering, sales and finance play a

larger role in agriculture than it may be perceived.

Harris also said that infrastructure is one of the key components that can influence efficiency. Since the United States exports most of its grain to other countries, it’s important to have sustainable travel methods.

“These waterways are in terrible shape,” he said.

“They are breaking down and they are prohibiting trade. We became the economic superpower that we are because we had the best infrastructure on the planet and now we let it deteriorate.”

On top of all of the external factors that are tough to manage, Harris said that the industry is also rapidly changing internally.

Technological advancements and an increase in the sophistication of machinery has already led to the potential for driverless tractors. The changes should lessen the busy workload for farmers.

“We’re moving toward full automation,” Harris said.

“Innovation is coming fast it’s a really exciting time to be in this industry.”

Macomb. I see Starbucks as nothing but an improvement for the community.”

Pierce said that people in the Macomb community will appreciate another option that’s even more accessible.

“I think that a second Starbucks location is phenomenal because now we don’t have to walk all the way inside Hy-Vee for it,” sophomore student at Western Allison Young said. “It will give us a much more convenient option.”

Above is the logo for the agricultural company where Scott Harris works.

COURTESY OF CASE IH NORTH AMERICA

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2019 Fall Semester Editorial Board

Edge Editor - Marc Ramirez Editor-in-Chief - Devon Greene Opinions Editor - Allison Young

?

Should WIU consider a new president

JIMMY PIERSON/PRODUCTION MANAGER

A few weeks ago, I wrote a letter to President Jack Thomas about some of my specific thoughts towards the recent layoffs at our University. I was extremely disappointed in his response and lack of action taken after my letter, so I have decided to rewrite it and have it published here.

I think we can all agree when I say that disappointment is a familiar feeling in regards to the current administration. I am involved and passionate about my education and place here at Western, and I am concerned, specifically about the layoffs in the University Counseling Center.

The nature of mass layoffs is never a comforting experience for anyone involved. I believe that every individual tied to this University is hurting due

to the layoffs that we have all adapted to. Mass layoffs are now a norm for this University. Ever since I have attended Western Illinois University, the budget issues have loomed overhead, especially for students like me: poor students.

I have always questioned my permanence here because I have feared my department would become diminished, I would no longer receive MAP Grant funding or I would not have the resources necessary to succeed here.

While I understand the constraints that come with considering who to lay off and what programs to cut, I am now unable to sit by and watch some of these cuts happen without voicing my concerns. A little over a month ago, 132 faculty and staff members were laid

off. Of those 132 layoffs, four of them came from the eight current counselors at the University Counseling Center.

This is absolutely unacceptable and disastrous to the students of Western Illinois University.

These layoffs will affect me and my ability to continue as a successful student. Cutting one of the most effective and vulnerable departments in half is the worst decision I have ever seen this University make during my time here.

Coming back to Western for my graduate degree would not have been an option for me if the UCC did not exist, or if its services were drastically cut in half. In fact, its existence was a major factor in my decision to return after serving as a Peace Corps volunteer. As a student who suffers from mental illness, I feel completely disrespected by this decision. I am one person; I cannot begin to imagine the magnitude of this decision on students who are lower functioning than I, mentally speaking. It is unclear if I

will be able to continue counseling in the fall semester due to this decision.

The problem I am having with this specific decision is that it is putting those who are most at risk – non-white students, students plagued by poverty, mentally ill students and overworked students at more of a disadvantage than they already are. I study how groups who are significantly disadvantaged in society are the groups targeted in these matters. These are the people who have less political power and are typically unable to voice their concerns and advocate for better treatment. I never imagined that a university, a place that is supposed to be safe haven for disadvantaged groups, a place that is supposed to help disadvantaged groups take steps to remove themselves from that cycle, would make a choice that further puts them down.

I hope this decision is revisited and given the thought it deserved before it was made.

I have never been more disappointed with a decision in my life. I believe there are voices that have not been heard, and that is why I am writing this.

The students and hard workers of this University deserve more care, consideration, compassion and thought than they are being given in these times.

I think the majority of the students, faculty and staff can agree with me on this one: we deserve a new administration.

We deserve an administration that cares about the students of this University first.

For far too long, students and the hardworking people of Western Illinois University have been thought of last when it comes to making budget cuts and keeping this University open.

The newly appointed Board of Trustees members will guide us to a better future for Western, I hope. But I do not think a new board is enough.

I think it is time we consider what is next: a new president for Western.

Male privilege is happening right before our eyes From the perspective of a female, the problem with male privilege is that it’s a neverending issue. In the past few months, it has been revealed more times than I can count, even in my small friend group.

While this is a case-by-case issue, it is also a societal issue.

Most often, males feel superior over their female equals, making them feel inferior. The problem with this is the impact it has on others. In my experience, males typically just act

superior, and often may not even notice they’re doing it.

So how can we be better about breaking down male privilege, and attempt to fix this societal issue?

There are things that we can do personally to make an attempt to fix this horrible problem.

When you notice your male friends/family acting superior, you can call them out. It may be awkward and it may cause arguments, but if we all stay quiet, nothing will change. In

the situations I’ve been in, I’ve noticed that males tend to say these things without even thinking. So, when they notice someone getting upset about it, they actually think about what they said and that can make a difference.

I have been informed by students that they see male superiority so often, especially in the athletics department, more specifically the football team.

I have heard so many times, from so many people about the privilege that these males get just for playing football. I realize the importance of our football team, and the things they are doing, but things need to change. More often, if you are on the football team, you do

not get as much punishment as someone who isn’t. This should be absolutely unacceptable, but for some reason, it isn’t.

This isn’t the only example, though. Like I said, even in my group of friends, male privilege is prominent. My female friends have been noticing it more in the past few months.

The biggest issue, though, is the expectations these males have towards their female “friends.” Male privilege is driven by expectations. We have been expected to take the males’ side of any fight. This results in straight oppression of the female.

The point of this is to make everyone understand that male

privilege is real, and it’s happening on your campus. However, it is not a hopeless situation. There is always something you can do or say, to help you or someone you know. Even the smallest change, can eventually grow into a bigger change. If you find yourself in a privilege situation, take a step back and think about how you can help change this situation for yourself or others.

If you are a male reading this, try to really think about what you say around your female equals that may make them feel inferior or oppressed. It can change, if we all try our best to fix this problem that is so prominent in our society.

Show your support to philanthropies Oftentimes on campus, you will see various organizations advertising for their philanthropies. Philanthropies are events hosted by organizations that are based on service or donating to others. There are so many going on at all times that it is easy to brush them aside and let them get lost in your calendar. However, not all campuses and communities are as fortunate to have as many philanthropic opportunities as Western Illinois Univer-

sity is. From Greek organizations, to Dance Marathon, to everything in between, we are provided the unique ability to give back almost every day. If you have not found your desired avenue, do not worry, you can still make change here on campus.

Even if you are graduating in May, there are plenty of ways to participate before then!

Struggling to find an event to support? You do not have to look very far to find one. In fact, I would be willing to be

that there is a philanthropy occurring every other week, if not every week. Just this week, TKE hosted their El Ranch fundraiser to support children in hospitals, and next week Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority will be hosting Mr. Greek/ Mr. WIU in support of the Tri Sigma Foundation. The event we all know and love, Dance Marathon, has already started back up again, and it is currently only $15 to register rather than the standard price of $30. You can also donate to one of the members of Pi Kappa Phi who is participating in Journey of Hope; the possibilities are endless! These are all events that are open to students just like yourself! Sure,

Contact Allison Young

it may make sense for the members of these organizations to participate, but why should other people get involved, or even care? Well, as college students, our funds are often directed towards activities that are not exactly charitable. It is necessary to have a balance. Having fun is important, but so is giving back. If you can afford to get into a bar and buy a couple drinks, you can afford to pay for a $3 ticket that benefits people who are facing adversity. It is not difficult to make a difference if you are willing to put in a tiny amount of effort.

If you are reading this and simply brushing it off and saying you do not care, think

about the mark you want to leave after you graduate and move into the real world.

Do you want to look back on your college experience and not have anything to be truly proud of? Consider this the next time you see someone tabling in the union for their organization to actually take a couple dollars that you would have spent on a coffee or some food and give it to someone who needs it more.

Donate to someone’s Dance Marathon page, their sorority philanthropy or an organization’s bake sale. You may not remember every moment of your college experience, but you will always remember the difference that you made in the lives of others.

AN-Young@wiu.edu

6

Friday, April 19, 2019

SPORTS

WesternCourier.com

Track and field teams prepare for second trip back to Mizzou

By Kejuan Rucker courier schedule

COLUMBIA, Mo.- Our Western Illinois track and field teams are heading back to the campus of the Mizzou Tigers this weekend for the two-day Tom Botts Invitational.

The Leathernecks are looking to outperform the rest of the competition and finish as a top-three team at the Invite. Western traveled to Missouri a few weeks ago to partake in the Mizzou Open on April 6, and finished with several top-five placements, a new school record and they also continued passing up all time markers.

Last weekend, the Leathernecks traveled to Iowa City, Iowa to compete in the Musco Twilight Invite hosted by the Iowa Hawkeyes. We left the event with six, first place wins split by our men and women athletes at three apiece.

For the men, three sophomores took control of the Invitational last weekend, representing coach Wholey and Western Illinois very well. Sophomore Dyllan Bonk earned a first place spot in the unseeded 400-meter hurdles, sophomore Cayson Frerichs placed first in the unseeded 800-meter run, sophomore Quintin Thurman was able to notch a first place spot for the Leathernecks in the unseeded 3000-meter run. Our men’s track and field team finished sixth of the seven teams at the Musco Twilight.

For the women, two of our juniors showed the competi-

tors why they have represented Western Illinois for the past three years, and one freshman got her first collegiate victory. Junior Bo Brasseur continues to dominate the women’s long jump competition, earning a first place spot every time. Junior Allison Richter earned first place by winning the javelin event. Freshman Tia Dorshorst got her first event win as a Leatherneck athlete by winning the pole vault competition and set an all-time marker in this event. Dorshorst is now seventh all time for the pole vault in Summit League history.

The women’s track and field team placed fourth of the seven teams.

Furthermore, 16 of our Leathernecks finished in the top half of their events with 15 of our athletes finishing in top-five of these events. Along with a few all-time markers, this will provide them with some momentum heading into Missouri this weekend.

The outdoor season is almost coming to an end. With all the hard work and conditioning these teams have done this semester, it's leading up to The Summit League Championship in May, which Western is hosting this year.

Nonetheless, the Tom Botts Invitational begins this Friday at 3:30 p.m., which begins with the hammer throw. Let's continue to motivate our Leathernecks through the rest of this season to win more top-10 titles, as well as carry on the successful records Western has made throughout this season.

Bo Brasseur gains momentum.

Cayson Frerichs in stride.

GOLEATHERNECKS.COM

GOLEATHERNECKS.COM

.

BECCA LANGYS/PHOTO EDITOR Brady Shows spins around before his throw.

GOLEATHERNECKS.COM

Quintin Thurman grabbing the baton.

If you are interested in writing for sports contact Bradley Piros - bj-piros@wiu.edu

CLASSIFIEDS

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For Rent

For Rent

Submit a classifieds ad to JD-Day@wiu.edu

Spacious 2-5 bedroom homes for rent. 10 month lease available. Great locations, close to bus stops, plenty off street parking, all new windows, AC, energy efficient furnace, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, free washer/dryer. Well maintained (24 hrs.) by local landlord.

Call 309-255-1233.

Houses for Rent 2016/2017: A&D Real Estate has several 3, 4 and 5 bedroom houses for rent, all with at least 2 bathrooms, recently rennovated and located close to campus. Call for a tour or visit our website at www.wiucollegerentals.com. Local landlord with a focus on clean and updated housing with personal service for your college housing needs. 309-313-1122.

FALL INTO SAVINGS with Charleston Boulevard Apartments! Now offering SPECIAL RATES through Dec. 2017! Call for specific details 309-833-4545!.

NICE, CLEAN, WELL MAINTAINED 1 TO 6 BEDROOM HOUSES FOR 2016-2017 Our houses have hard wood floors, ceramic tile, central air, washer and dryer and are close to campus with plenty of parking. We offer a ten month lease so you don’t pay for the months you aren’t here. Please call 309-255-1959 for a showing.

Now showing for 2017 & 2018 year 2, 3, and 5 bedrooms homes all close to campus. Call 309-331-4565.

Westen Investments: Leasing season has officailly begun, and we’re showing properties now! 1-5 bedroom houses close to campus are ready to be leased for this upcoming school year! Call our office at 309-833-5995 to schedule an appointment! Stay updated with us on Twitter @Western_Invest STC Investments now leasing for the 18/19 school year. We have 1-6 bedroom apartments/houses ready for you to call home! Check out our selection at www.stcinvestments.com.

You can also find us on Facebook to see daily posts!

LARGE STUDENT RENTALS 5 and 6 Bedroom Homes are still available!! Ask for our $1000.00 Discount program! First come first serve for the last large homes that are open for the fall.

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Small 1BR apt near campus and downtown. All utilities included. (Electric, Water, DISH, Garbage) $500/month, $300 deposit. Available immediately. Also have 2BR, you pay electric. $600/month, $350 deposit available September 1st. Please contact 309-255-4367 for a showing.

Timbercrest Apartments 1587 Riverview Drive Now showing 1 & 2 Bedroom Units. Very clean, close to WIU campus with bus stop in front of building. Washer/dryer available in most units, all other appliances included, FREE INTERNET, ceiling fans in every room, pet friendly. All units have off street parking and private decks overlooking campus. Both 10- and 12-month leases are available. Openings for Summer 2017 and school year 2017/2018. Deposit required. Phone (309)833-3192 and leave message.

Westen Investments: Are you looking for an apartment? We are now showing our beautiful 1-3 bedroom apartments for this upcoming school year! Don’t like paying for utilities? Ask about our ALL UTILITIES options, and be sure to check out our website (westerninvest.com) to see our listings! Schedule an appointment with us today at 309-833-5995.

The nicer apartments are going fast, excellent service- 24 hour emergency maintenance. Reasonable prices. Studio, 1-3 bedrooms, locations on/off campus available ‘18-’19 school year. Check us out at rentcollegepads.com. If interested, please call F & H Rentals 309/837-1705.

RATES $5.50 per issue (open rate) $4.00 per issue (campus rate)

For Rent Available now: Close to campus, clean studio apartments, excellent condition, reasonable rent, and partly furnished.

Ceiling fans and a/c. Professionally maintained. No pets.

Semester leases offered. Call 309 837 4369 and leave your phone number if not there. Email: MandKhousing@gmail.com ALL APARTMENTS - ALL INCLUSIVE Get control of your budget. Know exactly what you are spending each month. Each apartment includes free a/c, free heat, free electricity, free water, free cable tv, free hi speed internet, and free off street parking. Laundry on site.

No noise policy. Bus stop across the street. Close to campus. Well maintained. Studios are $460/mo, One bedrooms are $620/mo. Call Doug at 309-255-8179 for an appointment.

For Rent: Little Swan Lake, 30 min from campus. 2br, 2bth, heated double car garage with work area. $600 per mo.

(309) 335-2206 after 6:00 pm, may leave message anytime.

Spacious 3 Bedroom Upper in Duplex close to campus and Jackson St. All utilities furnished and appliances Includes cable and internet 18/19 school year $375.00 per Br Ph 309 255 8086 Please leave message Still have some nice large locations available at reasonable prices. Excellent service- 24 hour emergency maintenance. 1-8 bedrooms, locations on/off campus available ‘18-’19 school year. Pets at some locations. Check us out at rentcollegepads.com. If interested, please call F & H Rentals 309/837-1705.

Looking for 2 roommates to share a 3-bedroom furnished house beginning in August for 2018-19. 10- to 12-month contract. New carpet, air, garage w/ storage, laundry. $300 each per month, plus utilities. Call Sharon at 309-338-3888.

Sports 7

Friday, April 19, 2019

@WesternCourier

Bears top five matchups in 2019

The wait is finally over. At exactly 7:00 p.m. Wednesday night, the Chicago Bears, via Twitter, released their full regular-season schedule for 2019. Coming off their best year since the team’s Super Bowl run in 2006 with a 12-4 record, the Monsters of the Midway will look to take another step forward in yeartwo under head coach Matt Nagy. With that being said, this year ’s schedule is loaded several marquee matchups you’ll want to make sure to tune in for on a schedule that, on the surface, appears to be much more challenging than years past.

My number five matchup to watch is during week 1 on Sep. 5 against the Green Bay Packers.

Indeed, Chicago will once again kick off the season against the Packers, this time on their own turf. The teams split the series last year, both coming out victorious on their home field. However, the Bears likely would’ve

swept their divisional foe had it not been for one man: Aaron Rodgers. A player who has long been a thorn in the Bears’ side, the seventime Pro Bowler threw for 286 yards and three touchdowns (most of which came in the second half) as the Packers managed to erase a 17-0 halftime deficit, winning 24-23 on opening night. With a tough schedule ahead, it’ll be imperative for the Bears to come out of the gates hot in a “revenge” scenario against Green Bay. What better way to start the season than one of the best divisional rivalries in football?

My number four matchup to watch is on Dec. 5, Week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys.

The unstoppable force meets the immovable object. Dallas, a team particularly known for its strong running-game led by Ezekiel Elliott, will go head-to-head with Chicago’s elite front-seven in one of the Bears’ three Thursday night games in 2019. While

the Cowboys’ o-line may not be what it once was, Dallas still finished 2018 amongst the top-10 in both rushing yards and rush attempts per game. Something will have to give, as the Bears allowed a miniscule 77.8 rushing yards per game last season, fewest in the league. This should be a hard-fought battle in the trenches as Dallas does their best to suppress Chicago’s offensive attack with their steadily-improving defense.

My third favorite matchup is on December 22, Week 16 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The high-flying Chiefs offense with reigning MVP Patrick Mahomes II at the helm will take their first trip to Soldier Field since 2011.

After falling just short of a Super Bowl berth last season, Kansas City will again be a force to be reckoned with this fall. On paper, it appears to be a matchup that presents a steep obstacle to overcome for the Windy City.

But then again, the same was said about last year ’s game against the Los Angeles Rams, a game the Bears dominated from start to finish in route to a 15-6 victory. They’ll face arguably their toughest

opponent of 2019 at Soldier Field, a place that has quickly turned into one of the hardest venues for any opposing team to play. If Chicago can limit the damage done by Mahomes and take advantage of Kansas City’s 32ndranked defense, we could see them come out on top in what’s likely to be an offensive slugfest.

My second most intriguing matchup for me is on October 6, Week 5 against the Oakland Raiders (London).

Get your popcorn ready folks. For the first time in franchise history, the Bears will travel to the heart of England to face-off against John Gruden’s Raiders right before their Week 6 bye. More importantly, we finally get to witness the “Khalil Mack revenge game.” This already has the looks of being one for the ages, as Mack will set out to terrorize his former team that refused to give him the payday he deserved. Already one of, if not the best defensive players in the NFL, Mack with a little added motivation is scary thought for any opponent. In addition, we also get to see how the Bears’ D can hold up against a newlook Raiders offense that

traded for superstar wide receiver Antonio Brown this offseason, one of many notable additions. Gruden finally has the pieces he so desperately coveted for his offense, but only time will tell if that, alone, will be enough.

The most important matchup is on Nov. 3, Week 9 against the Philadelphia Eagles.

After the Bears’ Super Bowl aspirations were crushed in the concluding moments of the 2018 Wild Card Round against the Eagles, this may be the biggest “statement game” they’ll play all season.

The Monsters of the Midway will get another swing at things after coming up just short in the playoffs, but this time won’t be afforded the luxury of home-field advantage. Additionally, their week nine matchup will be their first time seeing quarterback Carson Wentz in action, as a late-season injury thrusted Nick Foles into the starting role before the playoffs last year. Like Dallas, Philly boasts a strong offensive line that was ranked as the fifth-best in the NFL

by Pro Football Focus following the 2018 season. The Bears defensive front will aim to put more pressure

Leathernecks come in third at home Invitational

By Jake VanZuiden courier staff On Tuesday, the Leatherneck men’s golf team competed in 47th annual Beu Mussatto Invitational held at the Harry Mussatto Golf Course in Macomb. This team was surely relieved to be back on familiar grounds as the host of the event. While it was originally scheduled to begin on Monday, inclement weather forced the meet to be pushed back a day as snowfall covered the area.

When golfers teed-off at 8 a.m. on Tuesday morning, they did so by a shotgun start to ensure they’d have no trouble squeezing the two-round event into one day.

Western rolled out two lineups to tackle the two, 18-hole rounds. They opted to go with the familiar “purple” squad and “gold” squad approach,

a strategy they implemented most recently at the Savannah State Spring Fling in midMarch. The purple team was comprised of senior Jackson Wetherbee, junior Kyle Irlbacker, freshman Cameron Karney, junior John Duggan III and freshman Parker Govern. This group was led by none other than standout Wetherbee, who competed in Western’s annual home event for the last time. He made sure to go out with a bang, firing a two-round total of 139 (-5). Not only was this good enough to secure a third-place finish for his squad, Wetherbee actually posted the best individual score in the entire tournament.

Interim head coach Lia Biehl Lukkarinen was ecstatic about his performance, although it didn’t come as much of a surprise to her as she knew exactly what he was capable of. ”Jackson has been a leader

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Jackson Wetherbee watches is putt roll into the hole.

on the team for quite some time,“ said Lukkarinen. ”Hopefully, this will be a boost for The Summit League Championships.“ Not far behind Wetherbee was Govern, finishing with the third-best individual score of the event at 141 (-3) as he continues to build on his rookie collegiate campaign. Irlbacker also had a sufficient day of his own, finishing just over par with a two-round total of 145 (+1) as he placed just outside the top-10 individually.

Rounding out the purple lineup was Duggan III and Karney, who concluded the day with scores of 148 (+4) and 151 (+7), respectively. Their combined efforts notched their squad a third-place finish in the event among six competing schools.

The Leathernecks’ gold squad was led by Sophomore Wyatt Spier, who golfed his way to a 144, which was right on par for

Parker Govern chips onto the green.

the course. Second in line was senior Dennis Reedy, firing a score of 149 (+5). Macomb native Joe Burke Jr. showed steady improvement between rounds as he managed to cut eight strokes from his game, finishing the day at 156 (+12).

Freshman Nick Ceruzzi also proved his round-one score of 89 was an anomaly, as his score of 76 in the concluding round put him at 165 (+21) for the event. Senior Graham Conrad, who also played in his last-ever Beu Mussatto Invitational, was right on the heels of Ceruzzi with a final score of 166 (+22). While the gold lineup (sixth-place in the event) may not have had the kind of impact as their purple allies, it was a well-rounded performance from both parties, nonetheless. Lukkarinen also seemed to believe both lineups golfed competently considering the weather

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obstacle they were forced to overcome. ”We faced some crazy weather challenges,“ said Lukkarinen. ”I'm really proud of the grounds crew for getting the course ready. Both the purple and gold teams played much better in the second round. Overall, we were pleased to host and pleased to have Jackson to be medalist in his home tournament finale.“ Now that the Beu Mussatto Invitational has reached its end, the Purple and Gold will have just one thing on their minds; The Summit League Championships. The season’s biggest event will conclude the Leathernecks’ 2019 spring campaign. The team will have just over 11 days to prepare, both mentally and physically for the season-ending meet before heading to Newton, Kan., to compete in the “big dance” beginning on April 28.

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Kyle Irlbacker watches his chip roe close to the hole.

Baseball looks to move up in Summit League standings

By Christopher Gibson courier staff

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Justin Fitzpatrick stares at his bat before entering the batters box.

This past Wednesday, the Western Illinois University baseball team (14-20) traveled down to Edwardsville to take on the Southern Illinois Cougars (1321).

Unfortunately, the Leathernecks lost by a score of 3-13 and the game ended early due to the lopsided score.

Freshman Chandler Fochs got the start on the mound for the Leathernecks. He only went two innings, giving up only three runs on two hits and also struck out four. He let up a run in the first inning off of a wild pitch, allowing the Cougars to get out to an early lead. However, Fochs got some offensive help in the top of the second. Senior CJ Schaeffer Jr. started the inning off with a double to center field. A couple batters later, senior Deion Thompson walked, which put runners on first and second with one out for senior Justin Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick would end up drawing a walk to load the bases. Junior Kevin Raisbeck also ended up walking a

couple batters later, allowing Schaeffer to score, making the game all tied up.

The score stayed tied at one a piece, until the bottom of the third inning. Fochs walked the leadoff man and then gave up a triple, allowing a run to score. Fochs got taken out of the game and replaced by sophomore Alex Dorethy, but the Cougars weren’t done scoring in the third yet.

They tacked on three more runs, highlighted by a tworun homerun by their catcher Brock Weimer. They led 1-5 after the third inning and then added eight more runs in the bottom of the fourth inning, making the score 1-13.

That wasn’t it for our Leathernecks, however.

Schaeffer started the inning off with another double, this time to right center. Senior Steve McShane would ground out and, in the process, moved Schaeffer over to third. Schaeffer scored a couple batters later off of a wild pitch. Then Fitzpatrick scored the last run of the game for the Leathernecks with a solo blast to left field.

Neither team scored the rest of the game.

The Leathernecks are now looking forward to this weekend when they take on South Dakota State University (1615) in Sioux Falls, S.D. The Jackrabbits themselves are coming off of a loss at the hands of Minnesota with a final score of 1-5 in favor-of the Gophers.

With South Dakota State sitting just one game ahead of them in The Summit League and tied in the conference with Oral Roberts, the Leathernecks are going to be looking to capitalize on their trip to South Dakota. If they want to come out of Sioux Falls ahead of the Jackrabbits in the standings, there are two keys to success for the Leathernecks. First off, they need to get the bats going again. While Schaeffer had a spectacular game against SIU-E going two for three with two doubles, the rest of the team needs to fall in line with Schaeffer. Another key to this game is going to be the pitching.

The Leathernecks need to get some quality outings from their pitchers if they want to take second place in The Summit League.

Softball gets set to take on North Dakota Fighting Hawks

By Taylor Jordan courier staff GRAND FORKS, N.D.- The Western Illinois softball team continues Summit League play in North Dakota on Friday and Saturday. The three-game series will consist of one game on Friday along with a doubleheader the following day. All games will be played inside the Alerus Center due to field conditions.

The Leathernecks were last seen in Chicago last Saturday, where they faced off against UIC in a doubleheader.

Western recorded a new season-high of 16 hits versus the Flames. Game one was taken by the Leathernecks 9-4, while UIC seized game two with a 6-3 victory.

Emily Ira is leading Western in strikeouts every year since she’s been playing for the Necks. The senior is eighth in the NCAA in strikeout-towalk ratio, getting 7.15 batters per each one she walks as of last Thursday. Ira has struck out 93 batters as she ranks second in The Summit League

this season.

Ira struck out a season-high of 13 batters in an 8-0 shutout win over Bowling Green on March 9. Her career-high is 19 strikeouts. Ira is the third Leatherneck to ever register 600 strikeouts as she recorded 617 career strikeouts and counting. Holly Van Vlymen received 880 while Kameren Ferguson was at 763.

Hailey Duwa has currently 18 career home runs and is tied for sixth in program history. One more could tie her for fourth all-time and 21 is the spot for second place.

Both Ira and Duwa were honored as Summit League ‘Players to Watch’ at the start of their 2019 season and continue to prove why.

UND is entering the weekend at 19-27 overall and carries a 4-5 Summit League record in its inaugural season in the league. The Fighting Hawks lost to South Dakota last weekend. Game one was a high scoring 9-6 loss and game two was a 4-0 shut out.

Kayleen Schneider owns one of the best batting averages in The Summit League (.360),

while Marina Marxolino leads her team with 25 RBIS. Joselyn Kirk and Dani Romero each have hit four homers this year for UND. Freshman Jannay Jones has killed it in the circle with 12 complete games, 76 strikeouts and a 3.76 ERA. The two teams have only met twice before and both received a win. The Purple and Gold shutout North Dakota 4-0 on opening day of the 2012 season at the Iowa State Invitational (Feb. 12, 2012) when Beth Golitko was in her first season as a graduate assistant coach at Western. North Dakota grabbed a victory from the Leathernecks 5-3 after a close game in the Total Control Sports Invitational on Feb. 8, 2015. Friday will mark the first game between the two that is not played at a neutral site and the Necks will make their first trip to Grand Forks, N.D. The three-game series will start at 7 p.m. on Friday along with the doubleheader starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Alerus Center in North Dakota.

Emily Ira in her delivery.

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