BY Dan Nolan
Monmouth set the women’s school record for consecutive home victories, notching their 11th straight with a 62-48 win over Trine University. The Fighting Scots roared to a 17-point first half lead on Claire McGuire’s three-pointer with 6:19 left, but the Thunder wouldn’t give in, cutting the deficit to eight just three minutes later.
Monmouth’s first half surge was keyed by Colleen Forrest’s 13 points on five-of-seven shooting. The Scots regained a 12-point edge, 30-18, at halftime and kept that margin for most of the second half. Forrest finished with 21 points and Zipporah Williams added 10. Haley Jones cleaned the glass for the Scots, pulling down 10 of their 37 rebounds.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
HOME BURGLARIES IN MONMOUTH
By Nate Neighbour
Contrary to persistent rumors of an increase in residential burglaries in Monmouth, there has actually been a decrease since last year.
Through October of this year there were 21 residential burglaries reported to police. For all of last year 49 residential burglaries were reported. On average there were approximately four residential break-ins per month in 2009. So far this year, that number is down to an average of around two break-ins per month.
Crime statistics in Monmouth are – by statute - part of the public record and should be made available to anyone upon request. Gathering information on 2009 crime statistics for this story, however, required filing a Freedom of Information Act form. Police officials offered no explanation on why that was necessary.
Contrary to persistent rumors of an increase in residential burglaries in Monmouth, there has actually been a decrease since last year.
Through October of this year there were 21 residential burglaries reported to police. For all of last year 49 residential burglaries were reported. On average there were approximately four residential break-ins per month in 2009. So far this year, that number is down to an average of around two break-ins per month.
Crime statistics in Monmouth are – by statute - part of the public record and should be made available to anyone upon request. Gathering information on 2009 crime statistics for this story, however, required filing a Freedom of Information Act form. Police officials offered no explanation on why that was necessary.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
SHEPHERD SHINES AS ALL STAR
By Dan Nolan
MONMOUTH, Ill. – Monmouth College wide receiver Matt Shepherd (Leesburg, Fla./Leesburg) made the most of his opportunities at last Friday’s D3 Football Senior Classic in Salem, Va.
Playing for the North squad, Shepherd saw plenty of action as a receiver and returner in the game that featured the nation’s top Division III seniors. While no official stats were kept, the Fighting Scot made some big plays, hauling in nearly 80 yards worth of receptions.
No reception was bigger than Shepherd’s catch on a crucial fourth-and-six late in the game with his team trailing 18-17. His 41-yard catch in double coverage kept the North’s drive alive and set up his team’s winning 34-yard field goal with six seconds left. A special teams turnover returned for a TD on the ensuing kickoff gave the North an extra six points for the final 26-18 score. Shepherd’s late catch was icing on the cake for the Fighting Scot senior, who also returned a kick 50 yards and hauled in a 25-yard pass in the first half. He also got the chance to run from the line of scrimmage on a reverse.
“It was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Shepherd of the all-star game. “I’ve never seen a group of people care so much about Division III. All the players and coaches were amazing. It was a great way to end my college career. I was just happy to be able to represent Monmouth College, our team and the conference one more time on the field.”
MONMOUTH, Ill. – Monmouth College wide receiver Matt Shepherd (Leesburg, Fla./Leesburg) made the most of his opportunities at last Friday’s D3 Football Senior Classic in Salem, Va.
Playing for the North squad, Shepherd saw plenty of action as a receiver and returner in the game that featured the nation’s top Division III seniors. While no official stats were kept, the Fighting Scot made some big plays, hauling in nearly 80 yards worth of receptions.
No reception was bigger than Shepherd’s catch on a crucial fourth-and-six late in the game with his team trailing 18-17. His 41-yard catch in double coverage kept the North’s drive alive and set up his team’s winning 34-yard field goal with six seconds left. A special teams turnover returned for a TD on the ensuing kickoff gave the North an extra six points for the final 26-18 score. Shepherd’s late catch was icing on the cake for the Fighting Scot senior, who also returned a kick 50 yards and hauled in a 25-yard pass in the first half. He also got the chance to run from the line of scrimmage on a reverse.
“It was one of the best experiences of my life,” said Shepherd of the all-star game. “I’ve never seen a group of people care so much about Division III. All the players and coaches were amazing. It was a great way to end my college career. I was just happy to be able to represent Monmouth College, our team and the conference one more time on the field.”
LATE BASKETBALL SCORES
By Dan Nolan
WOMEN’S BASLETBALL
Illinois College 59
Monmouth College 73
Monmouth led from start to finish in a 73-59 win over Illinois College. The Scots used a smothering defense to force the Lady Blues into 23 turnovers – 15 by steals. Illinois College got in a hole early thanks to Monmouth’s 10-0 run to open the game. IC then fell behind by 19 with 3:21 left in the first half on Haley Jones’ bucket. Monmouth kept the pressure on in the second half and led by as many as 22 when Zipporah Williams went coast-to-coast after a steal and layup. Jones finished with 23 points, Justine Boone chipped in 13 and Williams added 10.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Illinois College 82
Monmouth College 69
Monmouth couldn’t come back from two Illinois College runs in an 82-69 loss to the Blueboys. The Scots took a brief lead late in the first half when David Johnson’s bucket gave Monmouth a 36-35 lead. IC answered with a 12-3 run to close the half and retake the lead. The Scots never led after intermission, but trimmed the deficit to five, 69-64 on Curtis Oler’s three-point with 7:21 to go. That sparked a 13-4 Blueboy run that iced the game. Corey Gruber paced Monmouth with 16 points, Bryce Donaldson added 14.
WOMEN’S BASLETBALL
Illinois College 59
Monmouth College 73
Monmouth led from start to finish in a 73-59 win over Illinois College. The Scots used a smothering defense to force the Lady Blues into 23 turnovers – 15 by steals. Illinois College got in a hole early thanks to Monmouth’s 10-0 run to open the game. IC then fell behind by 19 with 3:21 left in the first half on Haley Jones’ bucket. Monmouth kept the pressure on in the second half and led by as many as 22 when Zipporah Williams went coast-to-coast after a steal and layup. Jones finished with 23 points, Justine Boone chipped in 13 and Williams added 10.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Illinois College 82
Monmouth College 69
Monmouth couldn’t come back from two Illinois College runs in an 82-69 loss to the Blueboys. The Scots took a brief lead late in the first half when David Johnson’s bucket gave Monmouth a 36-35 lead. IC answered with a 12-3 run to close the half and retake the lead. The Scots never led after intermission, but trimmed the deficit to five, 69-64 on Curtis Oler’s three-point with 7:21 to go. That sparked a 13-4 Blueboy run that iced the game. Corey Gruber paced Monmouth with 16 points, Bryce Donaldson added 14.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Election 2010: Looking Back and Ahead
By Ryan Bronaugh
A bleak economy fueled the fires of political change in the 2010 elections, and will continue to do so in the upcoming primaries of 2011. That was the unanimous opinion of a distinguished panel of journalists and political strategists who convened in Monmouth recently as part of the Midwest Matters Initiative sponsored by Monmouth College.
According to all four members of the panel, which included Mike Glover- political reporter for the Associated Press, Steve Grubbs-political strategist for the Republican Party, Rick Pearson-political reporter for the Chicago Tribune, and David Wilhelm-political strategist for the Democratic Party, the massive Republican sweep of the 2010 elections, as well as the Tea Party phenomenon, was driven primarily by a poor U.S. economy, and unless that economy begins to show signs of improvement, we will most likely see a similar sweep in the 2012 elections.
Moderated by adjunct political science professor Robin Johnson, the panel discussed the results of the 2010 elections, voter turnout, strategies used by both parties to gain voter favor, and many of the hot topics affecting the political climate, such as, health care, immigration, and the economy. Unlike other recent elections, the War on Terror, which consumed $660.4 billion in 2010 in military spending alone, was apparently not a hot issue in this last election, and was not discussed.
Most panelists agreed that there will be some gridlock in Congress as a result of the elections, however, the view on the measure of the congestion varied from one panelist to the next. While Mike Glover of the Associated Press felt strongly that Congress will do little between now and the elections of 2012 due to a Republican effort to stalemate Democratic favor among voters, Steve Grubbs stated that if Congress manages to sign off on the budget, than “they’ve done the only job that’s really expected of them, and they have to come up with a budget.”
On health care, the panel appeared split. Glover, and Wilhelm, thought the bill will move along through Congress, and some agreement will be made and a bill passed. According to Glover, health care is “too much of a heart felt issue,” and no one wants to be held responsible for Americans not being able to receive proper medical care. Pearson, and Grubbs, both stated that the Republicans would send a response bill, but it will be symbolic and, “nothing much will come of it.”
While the details fluctuated among panelists, the general thought on immigration was that it will most likely not go anywhere. Grubbs said a bill will move through Republicans, but nothing as extreme as what we saw in Arizona will likely be repeated.
As for the future economy, all opinions looked grim. Pearson predicted a very slow reduction in unemployment over the next two years, a result he said of, “poor state budgets, no more support checks will be coming in from Washington,” and “municipalities are reeling even more.” He went on to say that, “voters want to see outs; blood on the floor, but no one wants it to be them—their programs on the chopping block.”
Wilhelm pointed out that a recent poll showed that, of the voters who said Wall Street was to blame for the poor economy, 60/40 voted Republican. He added that government “doesn’t have much impact on economic growth, especially in the short term.” Glover agreed that there isn’t much government can do for the economy, and Grubbs cautioned Monmouth College graduates to seek practical skills after college, skills that will help them land good paying jobs.
Prior to questions taken from the audience, Johnson asked all four panelists whether the Tea Party phenomenon is as strong in the Midwest as it is in other parts of the country and why. There was no disagreement that it was in this election, and that it was a direct response to angst over the poor economy. “People are freaked out, and the Tea Party was a funnel,” Wilhelm said. Pearson said he thought the party “will never get as organized as a true third party,” but will continue to play a role as long as the poor economy is a factor. Grubbs agreed and added, “It’s important to understand where the motivation is coming from. The largest capitalist country on earth is asking the largest communist country on earth to loan it more money. Americans are seeing that this is not the America they grew up in.”
Panel moderator Robin Johnson closed the discussion by announcing that The Midwest Matters Initiative will continue to hold events, such as this week’s panel. He said our goal is to “not only educate its students about important Midwest issues, but to be a part of the solution, as well.”
A bleak economy fueled the fires of political change in the 2010 elections, and will continue to do so in the upcoming primaries of 2011. That was the unanimous opinion of a distinguished panel of journalists and political strategists who convened in Monmouth recently as part of the Midwest Matters Initiative sponsored by Monmouth College.
According to all four members of the panel, which included Mike Glover- political reporter for the Associated Press, Steve Grubbs-political strategist for the Republican Party, Rick Pearson-political reporter for the Chicago Tribune, and David Wilhelm-political strategist for the Democratic Party, the massive Republican sweep of the 2010 elections, as well as the Tea Party phenomenon, was driven primarily by a poor U.S. economy, and unless that economy begins to show signs of improvement, we will most likely see a similar sweep in the 2012 elections.
Moderated by adjunct political science professor Robin Johnson, the panel discussed the results of the 2010 elections, voter turnout, strategies used by both parties to gain voter favor, and many of the hot topics affecting the political climate, such as, health care, immigration, and the economy. Unlike other recent elections, the War on Terror, which consumed $660.4 billion in 2010 in military spending alone, was apparently not a hot issue in this last election, and was not discussed.
Most panelists agreed that there will be some gridlock in Congress as a result of the elections, however, the view on the measure of the congestion varied from one panelist to the next. While Mike Glover of the Associated Press felt strongly that Congress will do little between now and the elections of 2012 due to a Republican effort to stalemate Democratic favor among voters, Steve Grubbs stated that if Congress manages to sign off on the budget, than “they’ve done the only job that’s really expected of them, and they have to come up with a budget.”
On health care, the panel appeared split. Glover, and Wilhelm, thought the bill will move along through Congress, and some agreement will be made and a bill passed. According to Glover, health care is “too much of a heart felt issue,” and no one wants to be held responsible for Americans not being able to receive proper medical care. Pearson, and Grubbs, both stated that the Republicans would send a response bill, but it will be symbolic and, “nothing much will come of it.”
While the details fluctuated among panelists, the general thought on immigration was that it will most likely not go anywhere. Grubbs said a bill will move through Republicans, but nothing as extreme as what we saw in Arizona will likely be repeated.
As for the future economy, all opinions looked grim. Pearson predicted a very slow reduction in unemployment over the next two years, a result he said of, “poor state budgets, no more support checks will be coming in from Washington,” and “municipalities are reeling even more.” He went on to say that, “voters want to see outs; blood on the floor, but no one wants it to be them—their programs on the chopping block.”
Wilhelm pointed out that a recent poll showed that, of the voters who said Wall Street was to blame for the poor economy, 60/40 voted Republican. He added that government “doesn’t have much impact on economic growth, especially in the short term.” Glover agreed that there isn’t much government can do for the economy, and Grubbs cautioned Monmouth College graduates to seek practical skills after college, skills that will help them land good paying jobs.
Prior to questions taken from the audience, Johnson asked all four panelists whether the Tea Party phenomenon is as strong in the Midwest as it is in other parts of the country and why. There was no disagreement that it was in this election, and that it was a direct response to angst over the poor economy. “People are freaked out, and the Tea Party was a funnel,” Wilhelm said. Pearson said he thought the party “will never get as organized as a true third party,” but will continue to play a role as long as the poor economy is a factor. Grubbs agreed and added, “It’s important to understand where the motivation is coming from. The largest capitalist country on earth is asking the largest communist country on earth to loan it more money. Americans are seeing that this is not the America they grew up in.”
Panel moderator Robin Johnson closed the discussion by announcing that The Midwest Matters Initiative will continue to hold events, such as this week’s panel. He said our goal is to “not only educate its students about important Midwest issues, but to be a part of the solution, as well.”
Friday, November 19, 2010
New Records at Monmouth College
By Kelsey Beshears
Hard work paid off for Fighting Scots women this week as two school records were shattered in two different sports.
In swimming, the 400-yard medley relay time was broken on Saturday when Annie Higdon, Krysta Sparks, Rachel Holm and Erica McAloon cruised to a 4:18.16 time, bettering the old Monmouth College pool record by nearly two full seconds. Higdon, Holm and McAloon added Rachel Buckham in the 400 freestyle relay to pick up another first in 3:58.65.
“We didn't know what the pool record was going into the relay so breaking it was really exciting. It's great to know that we can still break records while being sore and tired from practices. I do believe we can break more records. I wouldn't expect anything less from our team,” said junior captain, Rachel Holm.
Another record was set when volleyball coach Kerri Shimmin became the winningist coach in Fighting Scots history. Shimmin guided the Scots to a 6-2 league record and the first conference title since back-to-back crowns in 1981 and ’82. The Scots, who had just two seniors on the roster and started two freshmen, reached the 20-win plateau for the first time since 2007.
“I was surprised to hear Coach Kurt tell us that we broke this record to be honest I wasn;t even sure what the record was before this. I feel proud of our relay team and I definitely think that after a taper we can break it again and that is the goal that I have set for this group,” said sophmore, Erica McAloon.
The women’s and men’s team each placed third at the invitational. Competing against; Loras College, Lake Forest College, Knox College, Illinois College, Eureka College, and Milikin University. With the women falling short of just forty points by second place; Loras College and short seventy-eight points to Lake Forest College. The mens team lost to Lake Forest College and Loras College also.
Another record was set when volleyball coach Kerri Shimmin became the most winning coach in Fighting Scots history. Shimmin guided the Scots to a 6-2 league record and the first conference title since back-to-back crowns in 1981 and ’82. The Scots, who had just two seniors on the roster and started two freshmen, reached the 20-win plateau for the first time since 2007.
Hard work paid off for Fighting Scots women this week as two school records were shattered in two different sports.
In swimming, the 400-yard medley relay time was broken on Saturday when Annie Higdon, Krysta Sparks, Rachel Holm and Erica McAloon cruised to a 4:18.16 time, bettering the old Monmouth College pool record by nearly two full seconds. Higdon, Holm and McAloon added Rachel Buckham in the 400 freestyle relay to pick up another first in 3:58.65.
“We didn't know what the pool record was going into the relay so breaking it was really exciting. It's great to know that we can still break records while being sore and tired from practices. I do believe we can break more records. I wouldn't expect anything less from our team,” said junior captain, Rachel Holm.
Another record was set when volleyball coach Kerri Shimmin became the winningist coach in Fighting Scots history. Shimmin guided the Scots to a 6-2 league record and the first conference title since back-to-back crowns in 1981 and ’82. The Scots, who had just two seniors on the roster and started two freshmen, reached the 20-win plateau for the first time since 2007.
“I was surprised to hear Coach Kurt tell us that we broke this record to be honest I wasn;t even sure what the record was before this. I feel proud of our relay team and I definitely think that after a taper we can break it again and that is the goal that I have set for this group,” said sophmore, Erica McAloon.
The women’s and men’s team each placed third at the invitational. Competing against; Loras College, Lake Forest College, Knox College, Illinois College, Eureka College, and Milikin University. With the women falling short of just forty points by second place; Loras College and short seventy-eight points to Lake Forest College. The mens team lost to Lake Forest College and Loras College also.
Another record was set when volleyball coach Kerri Shimmin became the most winning coach in Fighting Scots history. Shimmin guided the Scots to a 6-2 league record and the first conference title since back-to-back crowns in 1981 and ’82. The Scots, who had just two seniors on the roster and started two freshmen, reached the 20-win plateau for the first time since 2007.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Horror of Horrors
By Ryan Bronaugh
Alex J. Kane, a junior English major at Monmouth College, has a scary story to tell. And editor Bill Tucker of the Library of Horror Press is willing to pay for it! Kane recently sold a short story titled “The Darkling Door” to Tucker, which will be printed in the anthology, titled Made You Flinch: Horror Stories to Unnerve, Disturb, and Freak You Out. The anthology, and Alex’s story, will be available at Amazon.com, selected bookstores, and horror conventions as early as Christmas 2010.
While “The Darkling Door” sets a small milestone in the author’s career, it is actually the second story of Kane’s to be published. When Bill Tucker bought the first story of his to be sold, Alex set out to write another specifically for the Made You Flinch anthology. His efforts paid off. Within six days of submitting “The Darkling Door” he received a contract to sell the short story. Commenting on the success of the story Alex told The Warren County Newswire this week, “I definitely feel like it’s a great place to start, although there are still plenty of goals I’ve set for myself that are a long way off. I certainly have no objection to getting paid for doing what I love more than anything, and the small-press horror industry has a massive readership.”
Alex gives credit to his education; he has taken four creative writing classes since high school, including Advanced Creative Writing at Monmouth College with Professor Bruce. On his major influences Alex said, “I think reading Stephen King’s memoir, On Writing, was the single most intense push I’ve received toward taking writing seriously, but also there are certain aspects of life—College, age maturity, disillusionments of various kinds, heartbreaks, et cetera—that sort of drive you to the point of ‘do-or-die.’”
Success is often born from failure, and Alex is no stranger to disappointment in his writing. He has been writing for several years and said, “Over the past year, I’ve written seventeen finished short stories, some of which have been submitted and rejected over a dozen times.” He also had advice for other writers still trying to reach that goal of being published, “I can tell you that there’s really no secret. You simply have to read, write, and observe everything with a writer’s eye. The more you write, the better you get; simple as that. Those who find success as writers, I’m told, are the ones who simply never give up. Write, submit, and repeat. It’s really that easy. You just can’t get discouraged.”
Considering his approach to writing specifically for a targeted publication, Kane says that this is his second time of attempting such a tactic. He told the Warren County Newswire, “the first instance is ‘A Son of Nibiru,’” which fits into the science fiction genre rather than horror, unlike “The Darkling Door.” He said, “still haven’t received notification of how I fared the first time around.”
“The education I’ve received at Monmouth College,” Kane said, “has broadened the scope of my understanding about the world, as well as given me a deeper appreciation for the more formal components of literature.” For those wanting to read Alex’s story, read other stories and musings by Alex, or simply keep track of his writing career, he maintains a website, www.alexjkane.com. “I will definitely be keeping folks informed about when and where my work becomes available [on the website],” he said.
Alex J. Kane, a junior English major at Monmouth College, has a scary story to tell. And editor Bill Tucker of the Library of Horror Press is willing to pay for it! Kane recently sold a short story titled “The Darkling Door” to Tucker, which will be printed in the anthology, titled Made You Flinch: Horror Stories to Unnerve, Disturb, and Freak You Out. The anthology, and Alex’s story, will be available at Amazon.com, selected bookstores, and horror conventions as early as Christmas 2010.
While “The Darkling Door” sets a small milestone in the author’s career, it is actually the second story of Kane’s to be published. When Bill Tucker bought the first story of his to be sold, Alex set out to write another specifically for the Made You Flinch anthology. His efforts paid off. Within six days of submitting “The Darkling Door” he received a contract to sell the short story. Commenting on the success of the story Alex told The Warren County Newswire this week, “I definitely feel like it’s a great place to start, although there are still plenty of goals I’ve set for myself that are a long way off. I certainly have no objection to getting paid for doing what I love more than anything, and the small-press horror industry has a massive readership.”
Alex gives credit to his education; he has taken four creative writing classes since high school, including Advanced Creative Writing at Monmouth College with Professor Bruce. On his major influences Alex said, “I think reading Stephen King’s memoir, On Writing, was the single most intense push I’ve received toward taking writing seriously, but also there are certain aspects of life—College, age maturity, disillusionments of various kinds, heartbreaks, et cetera—that sort of drive you to the point of ‘do-or-die.’”
Success is often born from failure, and Alex is no stranger to disappointment in his writing. He has been writing for several years and said, “Over the past year, I’ve written seventeen finished short stories, some of which have been submitted and rejected over a dozen times.” He also had advice for other writers still trying to reach that goal of being published, “I can tell you that there’s really no secret. You simply have to read, write, and observe everything with a writer’s eye. The more you write, the better you get; simple as that. Those who find success as writers, I’m told, are the ones who simply never give up. Write, submit, and repeat. It’s really that easy. You just can’t get discouraged.”
Considering his approach to writing specifically for a targeted publication, Kane says that this is his second time of attempting such a tactic. He told the Warren County Newswire, “the first instance is ‘A Son of Nibiru,’” which fits into the science fiction genre rather than horror, unlike “The Darkling Door.” He said, “still haven’t received notification of how I fared the first time around.”
“The education I’ve received at Monmouth College,” Kane said, “has broadened the scope of my understanding about the world, as well as given me a deeper appreciation for the more formal components of literature.” For those wanting to read Alex’s story, read other stories and musings by Alex, or simply keep track of his writing career, he maintains a website, www.alexjkane.com. “I will definitely be keeping folks informed about when and where my work becomes available [on the website],” he said.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
WEEKEND SCOREBOARD
FOOTBALL
OVERTIME VICTORY FOR FIGHTING SCOTS
By Monmouth College Sports Information
Monmouth made the most of their second chance and posted a 16-13 come-from-behind overtime win over Carroll, knocking the Pioneers out of a share of first place in the Midwest Conference.
Trailing 13-0 with 9:59 remaining in the game, the Scots staged the second fourth quarter rally in two weeks, this time forcing overtime. Michael Davis hauled in a Brik Wedekind pass for a 27-yard gain to the Carroll one yard line. Trey Yocum capped off the 69-yard drive with a one-yard TD plunge to trim it to 13-7 with 6:40 left. Monmouth got the ball back near midfield with 48 seconds remaining with no timeouts left as Wedekind hit four different receivers, ending with a five yard toss to Davis to tie the game at 13 with 14 seconds to go. After the extra point kick was missed, the Scots kicked long and held Carroll to force the extra period.
The Scots’ defense bent, but did not break in the extra session and gave the Scots a chance when Carroll’s 23-yard field goal sailed left. Monmouth kept the ball on the ground on their possession, moving to the Carroll five. Matt Batton then atoned for the missed extra point, hitting the winning 22-yard field goal in overtime. The Pioneers dominated the Time of Possession, holding the ball for more than 40 minutes and outgaining the Scots 345-266. Rod Ojong led Monmouth’s defense with 15 tackles. Peyton Lumzy added 12.
CROSS COUNTRY
By Monmouth Sports Information
MONMOUTH, Ill. – Paced by two school records, the Monmouth College women’s and men’s cross country teams placed second and fourth, respectively, at the Midwest Conference Championships held Saturday at Gibson Woods Golf Course.
Monmouth’s women tied the school record with five all-conference runners as senior Mary Kate Beyer picked up her fourth all-league honor. Beyer also set the Monmouth record for a conference championship time with a 21:53.05 over the 6K course to place second.
Three sophomores and a freshman also achieved all-conference status. Sophomore Rachel Bowden earned her second all-league honor in as many years, running a 23:13.00 to place fifth and classmate Aron Jackson took 12th with a 23:36.79. Freshman Alyssa Edwards was just 10 seconds back in 14th position after running a 23:46.61. Tori Beaty – another sophomore – was Monmouth’s final all-conference runner in 18th place after touring the course in 23:54.22.
On the men’s side, senior Geoff Bird and junior Jon Welty each earned all-conference status for the second time in as many years. Bird’s second-place time of 25:27.86 was a Fighting Scots’ record for the 8K Midwest Conference Championships. He was just three seconds behind the winner, Alexander Reich of Grinnell. Welty clocked a 26:29.05 to place 18th.
VOLLEYBALL
Univ. of Chicago 3, Monmouth College 2
Monmouth College 3, North Park University 1
Monmouth College 3, Anderson College 2
Illinois Wesleyan 3, Monmouth College 0
OVERTIME VICTORY FOR FIGHTING SCOTS
By Monmouth College Sports Information
Monmouth made the most of their second chance and posted a 16-13 come-from-behind overtime win over Carroll, knocking the Pioneers out of a share of first place in the Midwest Conference.
Trailing 13-0 with 9:59 remaining in the game, the Scots staged the second fourth quarter rally in two weeks, this time forcing overtime. Michael Davis hauled in a Brik Wedekind pass for a 27-yard gain to the Carroll one yard line. Trey Yocum capped off the 69-yard drive with a one-yard TD plunge to trim it to 13-7 with 6:40 left. Monmouth got the ball back near midfield with 48 seconds remaining with no timeouts left as Wedekind hit four different receivers, ending with a five yard toss to Davis to tie the game at 13 with 14 seconds to go. After the extra point kick was missed, the Scots kicked long and held Carroll to force the extra period.
The Scots’ defense bent, but did not break in the extra session and gave the Scots a chance when Carroll’s 23-yard field goal sailed left. Monmouth kept the ball on the ground on their possession, moving to the Carroll five. Matt Batton then atoned for the missed extra point, hitting the winning 22-yard field goal in overtime. The Pioneers dominated the Time of Possession, holding the ball for more than 40 minutes and outgaining the Scots 345-266. Rod Ojong led Monmouth’s defense with 15 tackles. Peyton Lumzy added 12.
CROSS COUNTRY
By Monmouth Sports Information
MONMOUTH, Ill. – Paced by two school records, the Monmouth College women’s and men’s cross country teams placed second and fourth, respectively, at the Midwest Conference Championships held Saturday at Gibson Woods Golf Course.
Monmouth’s women tied the school record with five all-conference runners as senior Mary Kate Beyer picked up her fourth all-league honor. Beyer also set the Monmouth record for a conference championship time with a 21:53.05 over the 6K course to place second.
Three sophomores and a freshman also achieved all-conference status. Sophomore Rachel Bowden earned her second all-league honor in as many years, running a 23:13.00 to place fifth and classmate Aron Jackson took 12th with a 23:36.79. Freshman Alyssa Edwards was just 10 seconds back in 14th position after running a 23:46.61. Tori Beaty – another sophomore – was Monmouth’s final all-conference runner in 18th place after touring the course in 23:54.22.
On the men’s side, senior Geoff Bird and junior Jon Welty each earned all-conference status for the second time in as many years. Bird’s second-place time of 25:27.86 was a Fighting Scots’ record for the 8K Midwest Conference Championships. He was just three seconds behind the winner, Alexander Reich of Grinnell. Welty clocked a 26:29.05 to place 18th.
VOLLEYBALL
Univ. of Chicago 3, Monmouth College 2
Monmouth College 3, North Park University 1
Monmouth College 3, Anderson College 2
Illinois Wesleyan 3, Monmouth College 0
Friday, October 29, 2010
NEWSWIRE LANDS CAMPUS INTERVIEW WITH CONGRESSMAN HARE
By Ryan Bronaugh
Congressman Phil Hare, Democratic Representative of Illinois’ 17th district, visited the Monmouth College campus this week for a one-on-one interview with the Warren County News wire. Taking time out from a hectic schedule nearing the close of a “toss up” election campaign, Hare discussed the future of Illinois’ district structuring, negative campaign ads, and his efforts to get students and young adults out and voting in this November’s election.
With tight elections come slanderous, often demonizing, campaign ads and this year’s election campaigns have been no exception. All over the country, media in all its forms have been utilized to reach out to voters in the attempts to scare or depress voters, and the election for the seat in the 17th district of Illinois has been no exception. Phil Hare’s first response to the question of why his, and Schilling’s, campaign has chosen to run negative ads was to address that, while this election is the worst he has personally encountered, he has heard from other representatives in other states, that it could be a lot worse. He did add; however, “I’ve been around this business for thirty years, and this is as bad as I’ve seen it.”
Hare first addressed the April 1st campaign ad which featured the Congressman’s statements on The Constitution. He said the statement was taken out of context, and that he was addressing the person, who had just knocked a woman out of her seat in an attempt to get into the congressman’s face and badgering him and the crowd, and not the question on what he thought of the constitution; which he avers he had answered already several times. After he made the statement that, “I don’t worry about the constitution on this,” (speaking of the proposed healthcare reform) and the camera man’s reply of a snickered, “jackpot!” he knew that he had been bullied into a trap, and “the entire thing was an ugly scene.”
Hare maintains that he knows where his financial support comes from, and that his ads are not negative, but designed to bring facts to the surface, and will always be directed to the issues and never designed to harm [Schilling], or his family. He also said that negative campaign ads “are designed to depress voter turnout,” and that the real down fall of them is the message they send to people wanting to get into “this business” when they do are not directed solely at the issues at hand. Hare said that under democracy it is legal to accept help from third party donors and not report it, but the problem with it is, “it promotes the idea that anyone can come in and purchase a seat.” Hare added that people who do these types of acts do not always understand the consequences of their actions.
Hare’s message to Monmouth College students was in regards to financing school. He said he believes that investing in the education of the youth always has a good return investment. He began with by bringing attention to the fact that the party has recently given the Pell Grant its largest raise ever, and that by cutting out the “middle man” they have freed up billions to go into the federal student loan program.
If he is reelected Congressman Hare plans to introduce a bill that will wipe out the debt and interest owed in student loans for students who work for five years in areas of high priority in their given fields. “This is not limited to teaching,” he said. The bill, which Hare said his office is in the middle of scoring right now, would allow students to work in their fields of interests based on a community demand. “Rather than leave the state of Illinois to pursue work elsewhere based on pay, or to take a job in desperation because they know they have student loans to pay off, they will be allowed to work to doing what they like and to free themselves of debt.” He pointed out that the bill will also allow businesses’ to pass cost on.
This Tuesday will mark another election filled with high angst and the possibility of many changes in Washington, and Illinois’ 17th district will be a part of it. Concerning the election campaign Phil Hare said, “As angry as I am, and I am angry, I have nothing bad to say about [Schilling’s] family, or him. I’m here to help you do whatever you want to do, not tell you what to do.”
Congressman Phil Hare, Democratic Representative of Illinois’ 17th district, visited the Monmouth College campus this week for a one-on-one interview with the Warren County News wire. Taking time out from a hectic schedule nearing the close of a “toss up” election campaign, Hare discussed the future of Illinois’ district structuring, negative campaign ads, and his efforts to get students and young adults out and voting in this November’s election.
With tight elections come slanderous, often demonizing, campaign ads and this year’s election campaigns have been no exception. All over the country, media in all its forms have been utilized to reach out to voters in the attempts to scare or depress voters, and the election for the seat in the 17th district of Illinois has been no exception. Phil Hare’s first response to the question of why his, and Schilling’s, campaign has chosen to run negative ads was to address that, while this election is the worst he has personally encountered, he has heard from other representatives in other states, that it could be a lot worse. He did add; however, “I’ve been around this business for thirty years, and this is as bad as I’ve seen it.”
Hare first addressed the April 1st campaign ad which featured the Congressman’s statements on The Constitution. He said the statement was taken out of context, and that he was addressing the person, who had just knocked a woman out of her seat in an attempt to get into the congressman’s face and badgering him and the crowd, and not the question on what he thought of the constitution; which he avers he had answered already several times. After he made the statement that, “I don’t worry about the constitution on this,” (speaking of the proposed healthcare reform) and the camera man’s reply of a snickered, “jackpot!” he knew that he had been bullied into a trap, and “the entire thing was an ugly scene.”
Hare maintains that he knows where his financial support comes from, and that his ads are not negative, but designed to bring facts to the surface, and will always be directed to the issues and never designed to harm [Schilling], or his family. He also said that negative campaign ads “are designed to depress voter turnout,” and that the real down fall of them is the message they send to people wanting to get into “this business” when they do are not directed solely at the issues at hand. Hare said that under democracy it is legal to accept help from third party donors and not report it, but the problem with it is, “it promotes the idea that anyone can come in and purchase a seat.” Hare added that people who do these types of acts do not always understand the consequences of their actions.
Hare’s message to Monmouth College students was in regards to financing school. He said he believes that investing in the education of the youth always has a good return investment. He began with by bringing attention to the fact that the party has recently given the Pell Grant its largest raise ever, and that by cutting out the “middle man” they have freed up billions to go into the federal student loan program.
If he is reelected Congressman Hare plans to introduce a bill that will wipe out the debt and interest owed in student loans for students who work for five years in areas of high priority in their given fields. “This is not limited to teaching,” he said. The bill, which Hare said his office is in the middle of scoring right now, would allow students to work in their fields of interests based on a community demand. “Rather than leave the state of Illinois to pursue work elsewhere based on pay, or to take a job in desperation because they know they have student loans to pay off, they will be allowed to work to doing what they like and to free themselves of debt.” He pointed out that the bill will also allow businesses’ to pass cost on.
This Tuesday will mark another election filled with high angst and the possibility of many changes in Washington, and Illinois’ 17th district will be a part of it. Concerning the election campaign Phil Hare said, “As angry as I am, and I am angry, I have nothing bad to say about [Schilling’s] family, or him. I’m here to help you do whatever you want to do, not tell you what to do.”
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
LOVE YOUR BODY
By Courtney Gosney
This month Monmouth College is celebrating vaginas! In recognition of Fine Arts Month and National Love Your Body Day, a number of events were scheduled to promote women’s issues and awareness. The first event was to end fat talk and promote a healthier body image among women. “Fat Talk Free Week” is aimed at raising consciousness about the dangers of fat talk and the impact it has on women’s overall self-esteem and confidence. This event coincided with “National Love Your Body Day” that was celebrated Wednesday. Many women around campus wore “Love Your Body” t-shirts to support the cause.
To wrap up the week, the theatre department presented the Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler. The participants of the production are also carrying out a number of “Happenings”, different displays around campus to gain awareness for the production, including, among other acts, chalking the sidewalks of campus with different vagina terminology. The show includes a series of monologues that analyze issues that affect women all over the world. They cover a range of topics including: relationships, sex, motherhood, menstruation, sisterhood, development of personal identity and women’s empowerment.
The show brings particular attention to the shocking rate of domestic violence committed against women each year. Co-Producer, Lorena Johnson-Miles, said she hopes the monologues “…bring light to the women’s rights issues that are still very prevalent in our society today and encourages women on campus and in the community to make a stand for change
This month Monmouth College is celebrating vaginas! In recognition of Fine Arts Month and National Love Your Body Day, a number of events were scheduled to promote women’s issues and awareness. The first event was to end fat talk and promote a healthier body image among women. “Fat Talk Free Week” is aimed at raising consciousness about the dangers of fat talk and the impact it has on women’s overall self-esteem and confidence. This event coincided with “National Love Your Body Day” that was celebrated Wednesday. Many women around campus wore “Love Your Body” t-shirts to support the cause.
To wrap up the week, the theatre department presented the Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler. The participants of the production are also carrying out a number of “Happenings”, different displays around campus to gain awareness for the production, including, among other acts, chalking the sidewalks of campus with different vagina terminology. The show includes a series of monologues that analyze issues that affect women all over the world. They cover a range of topics including: relationships, sex, motherhood, menstruation, sisterhood, development of personal identity and women’s empowerment.
The show brings particular attention to the shocking rate of domestic violence committed against women each year. Co-Producer, Lorena Johnson-Miles, said she hopes the monologues “…bring light to the women’s rights issues that are still very prevalent in our society today and encourages women on campus and in the community to make a stand for change
WEEKEND SCOREBOARD
FOOTBALL
Beloit 34
Monmouth 27
VOLLEYBALL
Iowa Wesleyan 3
Monmouth 1
WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY
Monmouth placed first of ten teams at Illinois College.
MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY
Monmouth placed first of eight teams at Illinois College.
WOMEN'S SOCCER
Monmouth tied Lawrence 1-1, lost 1-0 to St. Norbert
Beloit 34
Monmouth 27
VOLLEYBALL
Iowa Wesleyan 3
Monmouth 1
WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY
Monmouth placed first of ten teams at Illinois College.
MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY
Monmouth placed first of eight teams at Illinois College.
WOMEN'S SOCCER
Monmouth tied Lawrence 1-1, lost 1-0 to St. Norbert
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
NO ORDINARY CANNON
BEHIND THE BIG BANG
By Kelsey Beshears
The Monmouth College cannon that is shot off every homecoming game was a class gift given to the school by the Class of 1903. According to Jeff Rankin, Director of Communications for Monmouth College, there was a big rivalry between the class of 1903 and 1904. Some members of the Class of 1904 were apparently so discouraged and envious of the great gift given by the previous class, that several members stole the cannon and dumped it into Cedar Creek. Their first plan was to take it to Oquawka and dump it in the Mississippi River but it got stuck in the mud when they were trying to load it into the wagon.
In the senior yearbook, a “wanted” poster appeared, offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the thieves. This was not just an idle threat. The cannon was federal property, and the theft was considered a felony. During the summer of 1904 a grand jury was convened to look into the matter. Most of the alleged perpetrators, as well as some of the young women of the class, were questioned, but all kept silent and the state’s attorney eventually dropped the case. But according to Rankin “The senior class would never forget the outrage”
During the first summer it was in the creek, the cannon partially surfaced and came into plain site, but one of the students of the class of 1904 buried it with rocks. On their commencement day, members of the class of ‘04 went to the creek, dug up the cannon, dug a trench, and buried it 30 feet away from where it previously located.
The rivalry of the two classes was never-ending. On the 25th anniversary of the class of 1903, students of 1904 hoped to dig out the cannon and to present it to the class as a goodwill gesture, but the plan never took place.
“Garrett Thiessen, the legendary Monmouth chemistry professor, became obsessed with locating the cannon and led some unsuccessful search parties near the Cedar Creek Bridge, said Rankin. Finally, on October 9, 1952, Thiessen was able to enlist the aid of Illinois Power Company, which sent an employee along on the search with an electronic device used to locate gas pipes. At 5 p.m., after working 2-1/2 hours, Eugene Painter of the power company was downstream with the metal detector, away from where the college party was searching, and located the cannon barrel sticking 6 inches out of the creek bed under several inches of water. According to Rankin, they were able to drag the barrel to a small island and from there they attached a cable from a wrecker truck on the bank.”
The cannon was then displayed outside Thiessens office so it wouldn’t be stolen again. Rankin goes on to explain that “Finally, during commencement weekend of 1954, on the 50th anniversary of the graduation of the Class of 1904, a ceremony was held in which former student Wallace Barnes apologized for the theft and symbolically turned the cannon back to the surviving members of 1903. Today, some 148 years since its manufacture, 106 years since its theft and 56 years since being officially returned to the class that donated it, the cannon continues to be a fascinating piece of Monmouth College lore. Little did the Class of 1903 realize when they dreamed up the idea for their class gift that it would be the most memorable class gift in the college’s history.
By Kelsey Beshears
The Monmouth College cannon that is shot off every homecoming game was a class gift given to the school by the Class of 1903. According to Jeff Rankin, Director of Communications for Monmouth College, there was a big rivalry between the class of 1903 and 1904. Some members of the Class of 1904 were apparently so discouraged and envious of the great gift given by the previous class, that several members stole the cannon and dumped it into Cedar Creek. Their first plan was to take it to Oquawka and dump it in the Mississippi River but it got stuck in the mud when they were trying to load it into the wagon.
In the senior yearbook, a “wanted” poster appeared, offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the thieves. This was not just an idle threat. The cannon was federal property, and the theft was considered a felony. During the summer of 1904 a grand jury was convened to look into the matter. Most of the alleged perpetrators, as well as some of the young women of the class, were questioned, but all kept silent and the state’s attorney eventually dropped the case. But according to Rankin “The senior class would never forget the outrage”
During the first summer it was in the creek, the cannon partially surfaced and came into plain site, but one of the students of the class of 1904 buried it with rocks. On their commencement day, members of the class of ‘04 went to the creek, dug up the cannon, dug a trench, and buried it 30 feet away from where it previously located.
The rivalry of the two classes was never-ending. On the 25th anniversary of the class of 1903, students of 1904 hoped to dig out the cannon and to present it to the class as a goodwill gesture, but the plan never took place.
“Garrett Thiessen, the legendary Monmouth chemistry professor, became obsessed with locating the cannon and led some unsuccessful search parties near the Cedar Creek Bridge, said Rankin. Finally, on October 9, 1952, Thiessen was able to enlist the aid of Illinois Power Company, which sent an employee along on the search with an electronic device used to locate gas pipes. At 5 p.m., after working 2-1/2 hours, Eugene Painter of the power company was downstream with the metal detector, away from where the college party was searching, and located the cannon barrel sticking 6 inches out of the creek bed under several inches of water. According to Rankin, they were able to drag the barrel to a small island and from there they attached a cable from a wrecker truck on the bank.”
The cannon was then displayed outside Thiessens office so it wouldn’t be stolen again. Rankin goes on to explain that “Finally, during commencement weekend of 1954, on the 50th anniversary of the graduation of the Class of 1904, a ceremony was held in which former student Wallace Barnes apologized for the theft and symbolically turned the cannon back to the surviving members of 1903. Today, some 148 years since its manufacture, 106 years since its theft and 56 years since being officially returned to the class that donated it, the cannon continues to be a fascinating piece of Monmouth College lore. Little did the Class of 1903 realize when they dreamed up the idea for their class gift that it would be the most memorable class gift in the college’s history.
Monday, October 18, 2010
ELECTION FERVOR HITS HOME
A Candidate Speaks to Monmouth College
By Ryan Bronaugh
According to most polls, the Illinois 17th Congressional District, which includes Monmouth, is one of many “toss up” districts that the Democrats could lose in this year’s congressional elections.
The Warren County Newswire conducted a one-on- one interview with the Republican candidate Bobby Schilling this week. Schilling is running to replace Democratic Representative Phil Hare who stepped in as the Representative in 2006 after his long time predecessor and mentor Lane Evans, chose to retire. Hare was then elected into the House in November of 2008. According to his website Bobby Schilling, the owner of the small pizza store St. Giuseppe’s Heavenly Pizza in Moline, IL, was inspired by the 2008 presidential election and began considering to run for the House soon after. His endorsements include the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and former governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney. His website says his support is built at the “grassroots level,” and adds that approximately one-third of his campaign volunteers are registered Democrats.
One issue discussed during our interview with Schilling was the future of the 17th District in regards to its current geographical layout. The District, which was designed to include Democratic strongholds, stretches from the northern area of Sterling, through Moline, as far south as the East ST. Louis suburbs and back north into Springfield, includes Galesburg, Monmouth, and Macomb without covering Peoria, Beardstown, or Jacksonville. Illinois will undergo redistricting in 2011, as is custom for states following a census. Bobby Schilling stated that the redistricting, “has not been discussed,” at this point, but that he believes Iowa’s Congressional map should be used as an example for Illinois. Schilling stated that the unfortunate side to redistricting is that it “allows the politician to choose the voter opposed to the voter choosing the politician.” Illinois will most likely lose a District in 2011, when asked if this is a concern for him Schilling replied, “no matter what happens it seems it will benefit us.” As far as who is primarily to blame for the shape of Illinois’ Districts—Schilling claims, “both parties are to blame.”
We asked Schilling why his campaign, as well as his opponent’s, has chosen to run negative campaign adds rather than adds that focus only on his accomplishments. Schilling said, “Its unfortunate, [positive campaign adds] was the direction we started in. [Hare] comes in with lies and deceit and we must respond by hitting him on his voting record.” Schilling added, “[Hare] has voted 99% of the time with Nancy Pelosi. Why pay someone from our District who is not representing the voice of Western Illinois? We don’t align with Washington elitists.”
Schilling said he has made efforts to reach out to young and minority voters. “I’m not really sure what other Republican campaigns are doing, but we have tried to bring people to our rallies by hosting local popular bands, and by just getting out and speaking to people,” Schilling stated. He claims that he has seen a positive response from minority voters who have approached him on many occasions thanking him for not leaving certain rural areas out of chosen rally locations. “They say that I am a man from under the hills,” referring to an upper-class area of Rock Island where Schilling is from, “but I want to send the message that I am running for all Illinoisans.”
Congressman Hare has so far declined an interview with the Warren County Newswire.
By Ryan Bronaugh
According to most polls, the Illinois 17th Congressional District, which includes Monmouth, is one of many “toss up” districts that the Democrats could lose in this year’s congressional elections.
The Warren County Newswire conducted a one-on- one interview with the Republican candidate Bobby Schilling this week. Schilling is running to replace Democratic Representative Phil Hare who stepped in as the Representative in 2006 after his long time predecessor and mentor Lane Evans, chose to retire. Hare was then elected into the House in November of 2008. According to his website Bobby Schilling, the owner of the small pizza store St. Giuseppe’s Heavenly Pizza in Moline, IL, was inspired by the 2008 presidential election and began considering to run for the House soon after. His endorsements include the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and former governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney. His website says his support is built at the “grassroots level,” and adds that approximately one-third of his campaign volunteers are registered Democrats.
One issue discussed during our interview with Schilling was the future of the 17th District in regards to its current geographical layout. The District, which was designed to include Democratic strongholds, stretches from the northern area of Sterling, through Moline, as far south as the East ST. Louis suburbs and back north into Springfield, includes Galesburg, Monmouth, and Macomb without covering Peoria, Beardstown, or Jacksonville. Illinois will undergo redistricting in 2011, as is custom for states following a census. Bobby Schilling stated that the redistricting, “has not been discussed,” at this point, but that he believes Iowa’s Congressional map should be used as an example for Illinois. Schilling stated that the unfortunate side to redistricting is that it “allows the politician to choose the voter opposed to the voter choosing the politician.” Illinois will most likely lose a District in 2011, when asked if this is a concern for him Schilling replied, “no matter what happens it seems it will benefit us.” As far as who is primarily to blame for the shape of Illinois’ Districts—Schilling claims, “both parties are to blame.”
We asked Schilling why his campaign, as well as his opponent’s, has chosen to run negative campaign adds rather than adds that focus only on his accomplishments. Schilling said, “Its unfortunate, [positive campaign adds] was the direction we started in. [Hare] comes in with lies and deceit and we must respond by hitting him on his voting record.” Schilling added, “[Hare] has voted 99% of the time with Nancy Pelosi. Why pay someone from our District who is not representing the voice of Western Illinois? We don’t align with Washington elitists.”
Schilling said he has made efforts to reach out to young and minority voters. “I’m not really sure what other Republican campaigns are doing, but we have tried to bring people to our rallies by hosting local popular bands, and by just getting out and speaking to people,” Schilling stated. He claims that he has seen a positive response from minority voters who have approached him on many occasions thanking him for not leaving certain rural areas out of chosen rally locations. “They say that I am a man from under the hills,” referring to an upper-class area of Rock Island where Schilling is from, “but I want to send the message that I am running for all Illinoisans.”
Congressman Hare has so far declined an interview with the Warren County Newswire.
HOMECOMING VICTORY
SCOTS HANG ON TO EARLY LEAD
By Kenneth Collins
(MONMOUTH) The Monmouth college football team roughed out a win against the Foresters of Lake Forest, defeating them by a score of 27-10 in front of an ecstatic crowd for a perfect ending to homecoming weekend. Senior wide receiver Matthew Shepherd and freshmen running back Trey Yocum led the way for the fighting Scots by scoring 2 touchdowns each as the Scots now improved to (4-3) and keep their chances going towards winning conference.
The fighting scots came out firing as they scored 4 touchdowns in the first half, which 3 of those touchdowns came in the 2nd quarter as freshmen quarterback Brik Wedekind hooked up with Shepherd twice in less than 1:30. On the defensive side of the ball Junior linebacker Cory Bishop led the team with 10 tackles, Junior line backer Adam Hoste had a fantastic day recording 9 tackles and an interception and Junior Defensive back Erick Weber recorded 2 interceptions. Senior Defensive back Fletcher Morgan also had a big game recording 8 tackles and coming up clutch with big plays at the right moments. “We played a very solid first half” said Senior Captain and starting defensive end Trevor Newton. “We told ourselves before the game that in order to win conference we need to win out the rest of games, and our guys just came out ready to play and it definitely showed in the first half.
The second half of the ball game was then a different story as the Fighting scots werent able to put any more points on the board and GAVE up 10 points. With 9:10 left in the game Lake Forest Kicker Tim Gruzwalski booted a 26 yard field goal to put the score to 27-10 which would end up to be the final score. Monmouth punted the ball away 5 times in the second half struggling to find any type of steady rhythm for both sides of the ball. “The second half was a poor reputation of how football showed be played by us and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we wish would of played a lot better on both sides of the ball” said Newton. Although Monmouth wasn’t able to play as well as they would have liked they were still able to have a +5 turnover ratio to finish the game. “We didn’t end the game that we would have liked to end it but we came out with the victory and that’s all that matters. We now have to put our focus towards next weekend and get ready to for another big game against Beloit.” The Fighting Scots will travel to Beloit, Wisconsin next weekend, Saturday, October 23 at 1pm to face Beloit College
By Kenneth Collins
(MONMOUTH) The Monmouth college football team roughed out a win against the Foresters of Lake Forest, defeating them by a score of 27-10 in front of an ecstatic crowd for a perfect ending to homecoming weekend. Senior wide receiver Matthew Shepherd and freshmen running back Trey Yocum led the way for the fighting Scots by scoring 2 touchdowns each as the Scots now improved to (4-3) and keep their chances going towards winning conference.
The fighting scots came out firing as they scored 4 touchdowns in the first half, which 3 of those touchdowns came in the 2nd quarter as freshmen quarterback Brik Wedekind hooked up with Shepherd twice in less than 1:30. On the defensive side of the ball Junior linebacker Cory Bishop led the team with 10 tackles, Junior line backer Adam Hoste had a fantastic day recording 9 tackles and an interception and Junior Defensive back Erick Weber recorded 2 interceptions. Senior Defensive back Fletcher Morgan also had a big game recording 8 tackles and coming up clutch with big plays at the right moments. “We played a very solid first half” said Senior Captain and starting defensive end Trevor Newton. “We told ourselves before the game that in order to win conference we need to win out the rest of games, and our guys just came out ready to play and it definitely showed in the first half.
The second half of the ball game was then a different story as the Fighting scots werent able to put any more points on the board and GAVE up 10 points. With 9:10 left in the game Lake Forest Kicker Tim Gruzwalski booted a 26 yard field goal to put the score to 27-10 which would end up to be the final score. Monmouth punted the ball away 5 times in the second half struggling to find any type of steady rhythm for both sides of the ball. “The second half was a poor reputation of how football showed be played by us and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we wish would of played a lot better on both sides of the ball” said Newton. Although Monmouth wasn’t able to play as well as they would have liked they were still able to have a +5 turnover ratio to finish the game. “We didn’t end the game that we would have liked to end it but we came out with the victory and that’s all that matters. We now have to put our focus towards next weekend and get ready to for another big game against Beloit.” The Fighting Scots will travel to Beloit, Wisconsin next weekend, Saturday, October 23 at 1pm to face Beloit College
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
DOWNTOWN MONMOUTH GETS A LIFT
Monmouth Bakery To Open On Main Street
By Joe Florio
(MONMOUTH) A $30,000 loan has been given to a new business in the city of Monmouth’s downtown district. The new business is a bakery that is being financed with a loan from the city’s revolving fund. It will be located at 200 E. Main, across the street from the Bijou Pub. The downtown coffee shop that had been in that location closed last month, joining a number of other stores in the downtown district have closed their doors in recent years. The loan was officially approved by the City Council this week following a presentation by Eric Hansen, Monmouth’s administrator.
“The revolving fund loan is separate from the downtown development grant”, said Hanson. The loan provides low interest loans to small businesses” The revolving fund loan has been in the cities possession for ten years and is a city wide loan so it’s not confined to the downtown area.“The owner of the business applied for the loan and she took advantage of it” commented Hanson. “The city has concerns for vacancies”
When asked if there was any help from the college in rebuilding Monmouth Hanson commented that the downtown development grant and the revolving fund loan are not related to the college but the college is a key driver in renovations to the city of Monmouth. The latest proof of the Colleges revival help is the Alpha Xi Delta women’s fraternity house being built on the corner of Broadway and S. 8th St. Both the city and the college are actively involved in reviving the city of Monmouth.
By Joe Florio
(MONMOUTH) A $30,000 loan has been given to a new business in the city of Monmouth’s downtown district. The new business is a bakery that is being financed with a loan from the city’s revolving fund. It will be located at 200 E. Main, across the street from the Bijou Pub. The downtown coffee shop that had been in that location closed last month, joining a number of other stores in the downtown district have closed their doors in recent years. The loan was officially approved by the City Council this week following a presentation by Eric Hansen, Monmouth’s administrator.
“The revolving fund loan is separate from the downtown development grant”, said Hanson. The loan provides low interest loans to small businesses” The revolving fund loan has been in the cities possession for ten years and is a city wide loan so it’s not confined to the downtown area.“The owner of the business applied for the loan and she took advantage of it” commented Hanson. “The city has concerns for vacancies”
When asked if there was any help from the college in rebuilding Monmouth Hanson commented that the downtown development grant and the revolving fund loan are not related to the college but the college is a key driver in renovations to the city of Monmouth. The latest proof of the Colleges revival help is the Alpha Xi Delta women’s fraternity house being built on the corner of Broadway and S. 8th St. Both the city and the college are actively involved in reviving the city of Monmouth.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
WEEKEND SCOREB OARD
FOOTBALL
St. Norbert 48
Monmouth 2
VOLLEYBALL
Monmouth 3
Lake Forest 1
Kalamazoo 3
Monmouth 0
WOMEN’S SOCCER
Carroll 4
Monmouth 1
MEN’S SOCCER
Carroll 2
Monmouth 1
St. Norbert 48
Monmouth 2
VOLLEYBALL
Monmouth 3
Lake Forest 1
Kalamazoo 3
Monmouth 0
WOMEN’S SOCCER
Carroll 4
Monmouth 1
MEN’S SOCCER
Carroll 2
Monmouth 1
Saturday, October 2, 2010
THEATRE REVIEW
The Learned Ladies
By Joe Testolin
An outstanding cast made Moliere's "The Learned Ladies" an evening of fun and entertainment at Wells Theater this weekend. The Monmouth College Crimson Masque preformed this 17th century French classic to enthusiastic audiences. This 2010 take on Molière's 17th-century play The Learned Ladies was a smart and sharp rendition of the classic and flowed as breezily as music.
This version of The Learned Ladies was translated into English verse by Richard Wilbur and was directed by Janeve West. The entire work is performed in rhymed couplets, yet the rhyme doesn't intrude. In fact, it is so subtle that it would be possible to hear the entire play without being certain that is was rhymed. But still the flow and pacing of the play are enriched by its presence.
Moliere's play concerns a middle class Frenchman, Chrysale (played by Nick Dadds), who has a wife and two daughters. His wife (Ariel Guerrero), his sister (Ivy Bekker), and his older daughter (Emily Frazer) have fallen under the spell of a charlatan named Trissotin (Mike Carioto), who plans to use their money to build his academy for women. Trissotin also aspires to marry the younger daughter and thereby acquire a lovely and rich wife. Henriette (Mary Bohlander), the younger daughter, has her own marriage plans. She loves the poor but handsome Clitandre (Austin Wearsch), who earlier courted her sister without success. The central conflict of the play concerns the husband's sponsorship of one candidate for bridegroom while the wife supports the other.
This rendition of The Learned Ladies by Moliere provided a comical and insightful way to describe “how we show our knowledge” as stated by director Janeve West. This play is set in the year 1672, so it includes a lot of older English which is hard to understand for our time, but the way it is used allows the language of the play to flow and almost have a rhyme to each verse.
By Joe Testolin
An outstanding cast made Moliere's "The Learned Ladies" an evening of fun and entertainment at Wells Theater this weekend. The Monmouth College Crimson Masque preformed this 17th century French classic to enthusiastic audiences. This 2010 take on Molière's 17th-century play The Learned Ladies was a smart and sharp rendition of the classic and flowed as breezily as music.
This version of The Learned Ladies was translated into English verse by Richard Wilbur and was directed by Janeve West. The entire work is performed in rhymed couplets, yet the rhyme doesn't intrude. In fact, it is so subtle that it would be possible to hear the entire play without being certain that is was rhymed. But still the flow and pacing of the play are enriched by its presence.
Moliere's play concerns a middle class Frenchman, Chrysale (played by Nick Dadds), who has a wife and two daughters. His wife (Ariel Guerrero), his sister (Ivy Bekker), and his older daughter (Emily Frazer) have fallen under the spell of a charlatan named Trissotin (Mike Carioto), who plans to use their money to build his academy for women. Trissotin also aspires to marry the younger daughter and thereby acquire a lovely and rich wife. Henriette (Mary Bohlander), the younger daughter, has her own marriage plans. She loves the poor but handsome Clitandre (Austin Wearsch), who earlier courted her sister without success. The central conflict of the play concerns the husband's sponsorship of one candidate for bridegroom while the wife supports the other.
This rendition of The Learned Ladies by Moliere provided a comical and insightful way to describe “how we show our knowledge” as stated by director Janeve West. This play is set in the year 1672, so it includes a lot of older English which is hard to understand for our time, but the way it is used allows the language of the play to flow and almost have a rhyme to each verse.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
NEW DYNAMIC FOR TOWN/COLLEGE RELATIONS
[Editors Note: The following article was published exclusively in the Monmouth College Courier on September 24th. In the article, the President of Monmouth College, Mauri Ditzler, foresees a new and “dynamic interaction” between the city of Monmouth and Monmouth College. The Warren County Newswire will be following important developments in this process with a series of special reports over the next weeks and months.]
Town/Gown Poll Results
By Adam Kinigson
From April 7-8 2010, Monmouth College conducted aN unprecedented citywide survey in which 300 Monmouth citizens were polled in order to get a better understanding of the town’s attitude toward the college.
“Part of ensuring you have a good relationship with your neighbor is to find out what they think about you,” said President Mauri Ditzler. “The first couple of questions asked whether or not the public thought the college was on the upswing or going downhill.”
According to the poll, 84.7 percent of the people surveyed believe the college is improving, while only one percent felt it was declining. Also, 79.7 percent of the people believe the college is an important asset to the community.
On top of generating income for the town, the college has also helped create new jobs. In fact, according to the poll, from 1993 to 2004 the college added 487 new students which created 76 new jobs.
“You can imagine people saying that as the college gets larger, the more problems arise,” said Ditzler. “It’s a great endorsement of our students that we increased in size and people still remain positive.”
However, not everyone is in favor of the college expanding. According to the survey, in order to expand its student population, Monmouth College would have to purchase additional land within Monmouth city limits in order to build additional student housing. Since Monmouth College is a non-profit organization it does not pay property taxes, which means expansion would take properties off the tax rolls.
46.7 percent felt that this was the biggest disadvantage the college had on the community.
“Every time the college buys a house people will say, ‘there goes another 5,000 dollars in property tax,’ but we say that the town is growing and the money goes back into the college,” said Ditzler. “The school is one of the town’s greatest employers. People like the idea of more jobs.”
A combined 44.7 percent of the people believe that the greatest impact Monmouth College provides the citizens is the overall economic impact on the town and the 250 full time and part-time jobs the college supplies.
“I hope that over the next 10 years there will be a dynamic interaction between the town and college,” said Ditzler. “It’s not about competing with the town, but rather working together with it. You can’t make improvements if you don’t know what to fix.”
Thanks to the poll, the college now has a better understanding of the town’s outlook toward it and how relations between the two can improve for the future.
“I’d like people in Monmouth to say this is a great place to live and Monmouth College contributes to that,” said Ditzler. “I also want people to say that the college is great school to attend because it’s in a great town.”
Town/Gown Poll Results
By Adam Kinigson
From April 7-8 2010, Monmouth College conducted aN unprecedented citywide survey in which 300 Monmouth citizens were polled in order to get a better understanding of the town’s attitude toward the college.
“Part of ensuring you have a good relationship with your neighbor is to find out what they think about you,” said President Mauri Ditzler. “The first couple of questions asked whether or not the public thought the college was on the upswing or going downhill.”
According to the poll, 84.7 percent of the people surveyed believe the college is improving, while only one percent felt it was declining. Also, 79.7 percent of the people believe the college is an important asset to the community.
On top of generating income for the town, the college has also helped create new jobs. In fact, according to the poll, from 1993 to 2004 the college added 487 new students which created 76 new jobs.
“You can imagine people saying that as the college gets larger, the more problems arise,” said Ditzler. “It’s a great endorsement of our students that we increased in size and people still remain positive.”
However, not everyone is in favor of the college expanding. According to the survey, in order to expand its student population, Monmouth College would have to purchase additional land within Monmouth city limits in order to build additional student housing. Since Monmouth College is a non-profit organization it does not pay property taxes, which means expansion would take properties off the tax rolls.
46.7 percent felt that this was the biggest disadvantage the college had on the community.
“Every time the college buys a house people will say, ‘there goes another 5,000 dollars in property tax,’ but we say that the town is growing and the money goes back into the college,” said Ditzler. “The school is one of the town’s greatest employers. People like the idea of more jobs.”
A combined 44.7 percent of the people believe that the greatest impact Monmouth College provides the citizens is the overall economic impact on the town and the 250 full time and part-time jobs the college supplies.
“I hope that over the next 10 years there will be a dynamic interaction between the town and college,” said Ditzler. “It’s not about competing with the town, but rather working together with it. You can’t make improvements if you don’t know what to fix.”
Thanks to the poll, the college now has a better understanding of the town’s outlook toward it and how relations between the two can improve for the future.
“I’d like people in Monmouth to say this is a great place to live and Monmouth College contributes to that,” said Ditzler. “I also want people to say that the college is great school to attend because it’s in a great town.”
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
ARCHER GOES BOTH WAYS
New Traffic Patterns
By Joe Testolin
MONMOUTH — City officials voted unanimously this week to pass an ordinance to make the 500 block of W. Archer a two-way street City Administrator Eric Hanson said he spoke with Monmouth-Roseville School District Superintendent Paul Woehlke who gave him the green light to move forward and make the one-way street a two-way street to minimize traffic congestion around the empty school.
Hanson also reported that work on the water supply for the south side of town would begin within 10 days with an expected completion date of December. 1. He said contractors would use a bore method rather than using open cuts in an effort to lessen disruption for the residents in that area
.
In other action, City officials honored Monmouth Fire Chief Jim Conrad. The Council recognized the retiring fire chief for his years of service to the city. Local 1702 presented Conard with a mounted "Chief's Axe" and Mayor Rod Davies presented Conard with a commemorative plaque. Both presentations were met with a standing ovation from Council members and visitors.
By Joe Testolin
MONMOUTH — City officials voted unanimously this week to pass an ordinance to make the 500 block of W. Archer a two-way street City Administrator Eric Hanson said he spoke with Monmouth-Roseville School District Superintendent Paul Woehlke who gave him the green light to move forward and make the one-way street a two-way street to minimize traffic congestion around the empty school.
Hanson also reported that work on the water supply for the south side of town would begin within 10 days with an expected completion date of December. 1. He said contractors would use a bore method rather than using open cuts in an effort to lessen disruption for the residents in that area
.
In other action, City officials honored Monmouth Fire Chief Jim Conrad. The Council recognized the retiring fire chief for his years of service to the city. Local 1702 presented Conard with a mounted "Chief's Axe" and Mayor Rod Davies presented Conard with a commemorative plaque. Both presentations were met with a standing ovation from Council members and visitors.
Monday, September 20, 2010
WEEKEND SCOREBOARD
FOOTBALL
Monmouth 30
Lawrence 25
WOMEN'S SOCCER
Monmouth 0
Greenville 0\
(double overtime)
MEN'S SOCCER
Greenville 3
Monmouth 1
VOLLEYBALL
Lincoln Christian 3
Monmouth 0
Monmouth 3
Robert Morris 1
Monmouth 3
Coe 1
WOMEN'S TENNIS
Lake Forest 9
Monmouth 0
Monmouth 30
Lawrence 25
WOMEN'S SOCCER
Monmouth 0
Greenville 0\
(double overtime)
MEN'S SOCCER
Greenville 3
Monmouth 1
VOLLEYBALL
Lincoln Christian 3
Monmouth 0
Monmouth 3
Robert Morris 1
Monmouth 3
Coe 1
WOMEN'S TENNIS
Lake Forest 9
Monmouth 0
Sunday, September 19, 2010
From Coorain to Monmouth
A Required Text Comes to Life
By: Arica R. Brazil
“The Road From Coorain.” has been required reading for freshman students at Monmouth College for the past two years. The book can be seen around campus sticking out of book bags of students or in the hands of others cramming to read the sage green paperback.
The book came to life on campus this week in the form of its author, Jill Ker Conway, who appeared at a college convocation. The writer stood in comfortable confidence in front of college faculty and students dawning a light blue blazer and elegant, simple jewelry. The title of the convocation was “Thinking about Women” and Conway spoke specifically to the women in the audience, urging them to believe as women that they are capable of anything. Conway, currently seventy-seven, explained her unique childhood, her adolescence, and also touched on her adulthood. Not only did she discuss her personal life, but her close connection to feminism. Her views went hand in hand with her title, and she believes wholeheartedly in a woman’s ability to perform as well as men in the various arenas of the workplace, sports, etc.
But perhaps, the most compelling statement from Conway was “the need for courses which would provide a outlet for the major research of women.“ Monmouth College does have a Women’s Studies course, but many in the audience wondered if this could be expanded. Perhaps a course on Women’s History, or Women’s Sports History would better prepare the women of Monmouth College for adulthood. Perhaps Monmouth could birth a Jill Ker Conway of its own if these additional classes were added.
Conway only spoke for an hour, but without a doubt opened the minds of students here on campus. Concluding the night with this “I am very happy to hear the comments (concerning her topic) and questions tonight. The road from Coorain to Monmouth is complete.”
By: Arica R. Brazil
“The Road From Coorain.” has been required reading for freshman students at Monmouth College for the past two years. The book can be seen around campus sticking out of book bags of students or in the hands of others cramming to read the sage green paperback.
The book came to life on campus this week in the form of its author, Jill Ker Conway, who appeared at a college convocation. The writer stood in comfortable confidence in front of college faculty and students dawning a light blue blazer and elegant, simple jewelry. The title of the convocation was “Thinking about Women” and Conway spoke specifically to the women in the audience, urging them to believe as women that they are capable of anything. Conway, currently seventy-seven, explained her unique childhood, her adolescence, and also touched on her adulthood. Not only did she discuss her personal life, but her close connection to feminism. Her views went hand in hand with her title, and she believes wholeheartedly in a woman’s ability to perform as well as men in the various arenas of the workplace, sports, etc.
But perhaps, the most compelling statement from Conway was “the need for courses which would provide a outlet for the major research of women.“ Monmouth College does have a Women’s Studies course, but many in the audience wondered if this could be expanded. Perhaps a course on Women’s History, or Women’s Sports History would better prepare the women of Monmouth College for adulthood. Perhaps Monmouth could birth a Jill Ker Conway of its own if these additional classes were added.
Conway only spoke for an hour, but without a doubt opened the minds of students here on campus. Concluding the night with this “I am very happy to hear the comments (concerning her topic) and questions tonight. The road from Coorain to Monmouth is complete.”
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Sleigh Bells Ring
SNOW ROUTES AND YOU
by Kasandra DeFrieze
Monmouth, IL - It's never a bad idea to be thinking this early in the year about driving and parking on snowy streets. The Monmouth City Council began discussing that issue this week, and Monmouth College students need to start thinking about it as well.
Two or more inches of snow on the roads mean inconvenient parking for Monmouth College Students. The city’s snow routes forbid parking on certain streets during these conditions. At the City Council Meeting last week, Alderman Bob Wells proposed the addition of more streets to be added to the snow routes this winter.
City officials believe Monmouth College students receive more parking tickets than the rest of the population. During the snowy season, parking tickets and inconvenient walking conditions make the months of December and January the most stressful for Monmouth College students. During circumstances of two or more inches of snow on the roads, students are not allowed to park their cars on certain streets surrounding the college. These roads make up the city snow routes where parking is forbidden.
Snow route violtions cost $50. The snow route affecting Monmouth College students most is D Street from 11th Avenue to Broadway and 1st Street from 2nd Avenue to Boston. Most cars seen parking on these streets belong to Monmouth College students, so students are the prime candidates for tickets during the snowy season.
Eric Hanson, City Administrator, claims the problem rests in inadequate communication of information. “You’re coming into a town and you’re not familiar with all of our city ordinances so a lot of it is just not knowing,” Hanson said. “However, it is posted; the information is out there.”
Many college students are familiar with the colorful windshield decoration of parking tickets during the winter months. Better communication for Monmouth College students could help solve this problem. “I am quite confused on the snow routes,” Junior Shara Welter said. “I think the school should send a little reminder out once it gets closer to the winter months . . .We see a lot of the same people during that time,” Hanson said. “Some people say they didn’t know and (psy), but some also get multiple accounts just because they don’t want to pay. It’s an expensive lesson to learn.”
The proposition for changing snow routes will be discussed further at the next city council meeting. The new snow routes may include: East Ninth Avenue from South Sixth to Main Street; East Third Avenue also from South Sixth to Main Street; Second Avenue from South Main to D Street; Archer Avenue from North Main to North B Street.
by Kasandra DeFrieze
Monmouth, IL - It's never a bad idea to be thinking this early in the year about driving and parking on snowy streets. The Monmouth City Council began discussing that issue this week, and Monmouth College students need to start thinking about it as well.
Two or more inches of snow on the roads mean inconvenient parking for Monmouth College Students. The city’s snow routes forbid parking on certain streets during these conditions. At the City Council Meeting last week, Alderman Bob Wells proposed the addition of more streets to be added to the snow routes this winter.
City officials believe Monmouth College students receive more parking tickets than the rest of the population. During the snowy season, parking tickets and inconvenient walking conditions make the months of December and January the most stressful for Monmouth College students. During circumstances of two or more inches of snow on the roads, students are not allowed to park their cars on certain streets surrounding the college. These roads make up the city snow routes where parking is forbidden.
Snow route violtions cost $50. The snow route affecting Monmouth College students most is D Street from 11th Avenue to Broadway and 1st Street from 2nd Avenue to Boston. Most cars seen parking on these streets belong to Monmouth College students, so students are the prime candidates for tickets during the snowy season.
Eric Hanson, City Administrator, claims the problem rests in inadequate communication of information. “You’re coming into a town and you’re not familiar with all of our city ordinances so a lot of it is just not knowing,” Hanson said. “However, it is posted; the information is out there.”
Many college students are familiar with the colorful windshield decoration of parking tickets during the winter months. Better communication for Monmouth College students could help solve this problem. “I am quite confused on the snow routes,” Junior Shara Welter said. “I think the school should send a little reminder out once it gets closer to the winter months . . .We see a lot of the same people during that time,” Hanson said. “Some people say they didn’t know and (psy), but some also get multiple accounts just because they don’t want to pay. It’s an expensive lesson to learn.”
The proposition for changing snow routes will be discussed further at the next city council meeting. The new snow routes may include: East Ninth Avenue from South Sixth to Main Street; East Third Avenue also from South Sixth to Main Street; Second Avenue from South Main to D Street; Archer Avenue from North Main to North B Street.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tanney Injury Confirmed
COACH BELL DISCUSSES QB SITUATION
By Kelsey Beshears.
Monmouth, IL - Monmouth College football coach Stephan Bell confirmed today that All American quarterback Alex Tanney received a serious injury to his right shoulder in Saturday’s game against Grinnel. Bell said Tanney was injured when he was hit by a defender after throwing a pass in the first quarter. “He spun around and the defender landed on him.” Bell said he is out indefinitely, which means there might be a slight chance he could come back for another game later in the season, but they are taking it day by day. His position will be filled by Brik Wedekind who is a Freshman from Princeton, IL. Coach Bell said of Wedekind "He did a good job. After the first couple series he got comfortable and did well. The more (playing time) he gets the better he will become."
By Kelsey Beshears.
Monmouth, IL - Monmouth College football coach Stephan Bell confirmed today that All American quarterback Alex Tanney received a serious injury to his right shoulder in Saturday’s game against Grinnel. Bell said Tanney was injured when he was hit by a defender after throwing a pass in the first quarter. “He spun around and the defender landed on him.” Bell said he is out indefinitely, which means there might be a slight chance he could come back for another game later in the season, but they are taking it day by day. His position will be filled by Brik Wedekind who is a Freshman from Princeton, IL. Coach Bell said of Wedekind "He did a good job. After the first couple series he got comfortable and did well. The more (playing time) he gets the better he will become."
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
MONMOUTH FOOTBALL MISFORTUNE
MONMOUTH, IL - Informtion regarding the condition of Alex Tanney, Monmouth’s All American quarterback is still not being made available by the college. Tanney was injured in Saturday’s game against Grinnell. School officials say they are unable to release information due to HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) rules. Informed sources tell the Newswire, however, that Tanney may be out for the season. We will report on Tanney’s condition when information is released by the College.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
MC TRACK DOMINANCE CONTINUES
MONMOUTH, Ill. – Monmouth College’s men’s and women’s track teams successfully defended their Midwest Conference titles, picking up the men’s 10th straight league crown and the women’s sixth.
Each team led after Day 1 of the two-day meet in Jacksonville and widened the gap on the rest of the field on the final day. Carroll was the runner up to Monmouth in both the men’s and women’s competitions. The Scots’ men posted 202 points to the Pioneers’ 123. The women won by a 248.5 to 127 margin.
Monmouth coach Roger Haynes swept the men’s and women’s Coach of the Year honors. He shared the men’s honor with Carroll’s Shawn Thielitz. The Scots’ Gloria Lehr and Amanda Streeter were named women’s field Performers of the Year along with Melissa Norville of Illinois College. Monmouth’s Tyler Hannam earned the men’s field Performer of the Year and teammate Luke Reschke was tabbed the men’s track Performer of the Year, sharing the honor with Illinois College’s D.J. Jackson and David Montgomery of Grinnell.
Reschke made the biggest splash on the men’s track with a 400-dash time that not only is the nation’s fastest, it also equaled the automatic qualifying time for Division I. After missing last season with an injury, the senior reclaimed the 400-meter dash title in convincing fashion. His fourth title in the event came in a automatic qualifying time of 46.75 – breaking his own school record by nearly a second. He added a second-place finish in the 200 where he ran a personal-best and first-time provisional qualifying 21.62 in the prelims. His 21.78 in the finals was just one one-hundredth behind Jackson of IC.
Lehr scored in all four of her events, winning two. The senior took top honors in the shot put and discus. Lehr’s provisional throw of 43’1-1/2” in the shot led a 1-2-3 Scots finish. Amanda Street was second and Allison Devor was third. Lehr also threw a provisional mark to win the discus. Her 140’4” toss was a personal-best. Devor placed third in the event.
Hannam won the men’s high jump for the second consecutive year. The junior cleared 6’9-1/2” to win by two inches. Nick Byom cleared 6’7-1/2” to place third on a judge’s decision and Sean Wells was fourth.
Streeter unseated defending champion Lehr in the hammer throw. Streeter heaved a personal-best and first-time provisional mark of 154’6” for the title. Lehr placed second and Devor took fourth with a career-best 140’5”.
Sprinter Jae Moore was successful in defending her 100-dash crown. The junior clocked a 12.81 to win by 25-hundreths. She also placed second in the 200.
Moore, Morgan Leffel, MacKinsey Marquith and Kaci Lierman sprinted their way to a win in the 4x100 relay. The foursome’s 49.83 was nearly a second faster than the runner up. Leffel and Lierman also gained valuable points in the 400 where they finished 2-3. Lierman, Leffel, Moore and Rachel Bowden clocked a second-place time of 4:04.60 in the 4x400 relay.
Whitney Didier picked up the women’s other first in the meet. Didier equaled her personal-best and provisional height of 11’7-3/4” to win the pole vault. She also took third in the 400 hurdles.
Besides Reschke’s win in the 400, Monmouth’s men picked up four other firsts – all in the field events. Four Monmouth Students were selected as track performers of the year.
WOMEN – TEAM RANKINGS
1) Monmouth College (IL) 248.5
2) Carroll University 127
3) St. Norbert College 117
4) Illinois College 79.5
5) Ripon College 61
6) Knox College 49
7) Beloit College 47
8) Grinnell College 32
9) Lawrence University 18
MEN – TEAM RANINGS
1) Monmouth College (IL) 202
2) Carroll University 123
3) Grinnell College 113
4) St. Norbert College 102
5) Ripon College 95
6) Illinois College 86
7) Beloit College 25
8) Knox College 21
9) Lawrence University 13
TRACK PERFORMERS OF THE YEAR
Women’s Field:
Melissa Norville (Illinois College)
Gloria Lehr (Monmouth College)
Amanda Streeter (Monmouth College)
Women’s Track:
Megan OGrady (Carroll University)
Lindsay Gruenke (Carroll University)
Jenny Scherer (St. Norbert College)
Emily Schudrowitz (St. Norbert College)
Men’s Track:
D.J. Jackson (Illinois College)
David Montgomery (Grinnell College)
Luke Reschke (Monmouth College)
Men’s Field:
Tyler Hannam (Monmouth College)
Men’s Coach of the Year:
Roger Haynes (Monmouth College}
Women’s Coach of the Year:
Roger Haynes (Monmouth Collge)
Shawn Thielitz (Carroll University
Each team led after Day 1 of the two-day meet in Jacksonville and widened the gap on the rest of the field on the final day. Carroll was the runner up to Monmouth in both the men’s and women’s competitions. The Scots’ men posted 202 points to the Pioneers’ 123. The women won by a 248.5 to 127 margin.
Monmouth coach Roger Haynes swept the men’s and women’s Coach of the Year honors. He shared the men’s honor with Carroll’s Shawn Thielitz. The Scots’ Gloria Lehr and Amanda Streeter were named women’s field Performers of the Year along with Melissa Norville of Illinois College. Monmouth’s Tyler Hannam earned the men’s field Performer of the Year and teammate Luke Reschke was tabbed the men’s track Performer of the Year, sharing the honor with Illinois College’s D.J. Jackson and David Montgomery of Grinnell.
Reschke made the biggest splash on the men’s track with a 400-dash time that not only is the nation’s fastest, it also equaled the automatic qualifying time for Division I. After missing last season with an injury, the senior reclaimed the 400-meter dash title in convincing fashion. His fourth title in the event came in a automatic qualifying time of 46.75 – breaking his own school record by nearly a second. He added a second-place finish in the 200 where he ran a personal-best and first-time provisional qualifying 21.62 in the prelims. His 21.78 in the finals was just one one-hundredth behind Jackson of IC.
Lehr scored in all four of her events, winning two. The senior took top honors in the shot put and discus. Lehr’s provisional throw of 43’1-1/2” in the shot led a 1-2-3 Scots finish. Amanda Street was second and Allison Devor was third. Lehr also threw a provisional mark to win the discus. Her 140’4” toss was a personal-best. Devor placed third in the event.
Hannam won the men’s high jump for the second consecutive year. The junior cleared 6’9-1/2” to win by two inches. Nick Byom cleared 6’7-1/2” to place third on a judge’s decision and Sean Wells was fourth.
Streeter unseated defending champion Lehr in the hammer throw. Streeter heaved a personal-best and first-time provisional mark of 154’6” for the title. Lehr placed second and Devor took fourth with a career-best 140’5”.
Sprinter Jae Moore was successful in defending her 100-dash crown. The junior clocked a 12.81 to win by 25-hundreths. She also placed second in the 200.
Moore, Morgan Leffel, MacKinsey Marquith and Kaci Lierman sprinted their way to a win in the 4x100 relay. The foursome’s 49.83 was nearly a second faster than the runner up. Leffel and Lierman also gained valuable points in the 400 where they finished 2-3. Lierman, Leffel, Moore and Rachel Bowden clocked a second-place time of 4:04.60 in the 4x400 relay.
Whitney Didier picked up the women’s other first in the meet. Didier equaled her personal-best and provisional height of 11’7-3/4” to win the pole vault. She also took third in the 400 hurdles.
Besides Reschke’s win in the 400, Monmouth’s men picked up four other firsts – all in the field events. Four Monmouth Students were selected as track performers of the year.
WOMEN – TEAM RANKINGS
1) Monmouth College (IL) 248.5
2) Carroll University 127
3) St. Norbert College 117
4) Illinois College 79.5
5) Ripon College 61
6) Knox College 49
7) Beloit College 47
8) Grinnell College 32
9) Lawrence University 18
MEN – TEAM RANINGS
1) Monmouth College (IL) 202
2) Carroll University 123
3) Grinnell College 113
4) St. Norbert College 102
5) Ripon College 95
6) Illinois College 86
7) Beloit College 25
8) Knox College 21
9) Lawrence University 13
TRACK PERFORMERS OF THE YEAR
Women’s Field:
Melissa Norville (Illinois College)
Gloria Lehr (Monmouth College)
Amanda Streeter (Monmouth College)
Women’s Track:
Megan OGrady (Carroll University)
Lindsay Gruenke (Carroll University)
Jenny Scherer (St. Norbert College)
Emily Schudrowitz (St. Norbert College)
Men’s Track:
D.J. Jackson (Illinois College)
David Montgomery (Grinnell College)
Luke Reschke (Monmouth College)
Men’s Field:
Tyler Hannam (Monmouth College)
Men’s Coach of the Year:
Roger Haynes (Monmouth College}
Women’s Coach of the Year:
Roger Haynes (Monmouth Collge)
Shawn Thielitz (Carroll University
Sunday, May 9, 2010
SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT RESULTS
NCAA Division III Softball
Game 3 of 2010 Midwest Conference Championship Tournament (Lake Forest College)
Monmouth College 4, Ripon College 2
St. Norbert College 5, Monmouth College 0
Game 3 of 2010 Midwest Conference Championship Tournament (Lake Forest College)
Monmouth College 4, Ripon College 2
St. Norbert College 5, Monmouth College 0
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
INSIDE THE OSF
A Tale of Two Patients
By: Brittney Parker
Within the college student body, the OSF Clinic has a less than positive reputation. Is the bad rep of the clinic justified? This is a first hand evaluation by two students of one service provided by OSF: Surgery
Surgery is something no one ever predicts for themselves. One of the scariest things a person can hear is when a doctor tells him or her they must have surgery immediately before something worse happens. For college students who do not have primary doctors in Monmouth, many things begin to run through his or her mind. “The first thing I did was call my parents to see if I could come home to get surgery done there and be with my family,” says Kate Runge, who had her appendix removed in 2007. “I was a freshman and I had just moved into the college, I didn’t really know what to expect which scared me even more. All I knew was the bad things people had told me about the clinic, like misdiagnosing patients and lack of knowledge.” She went on to explain that this was her biggest fear. “As if surgery wasn’t bad enough I had to get it done at a place I was not comfortable with, that just added to it.”
I too was faced with these concerns when I was told I had to have surgery immediately. I was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, and that if I didn’t get it taken care of, it would only get worse and cause my intestines to get pinched closed. If this was to happen, I would have to go in for emergency surgery, which according to the doctor would be a dangerous situation.
Runge checked into the emergency room at 4:30 in the morning and was taken to a room immediately after, despite common beliefs of waiting hours to be looked at. Although, this is where her experience began to frighten her. “After about an hour and what seemed like 50 tries later, I finally got an IV in my hand. That was after I had already passed out, because of the amount of pain I was in, while walking to the bathroom. Except the nurse made my roommate help me.” She explained that the doctor who was going to perform the surgery seemed knowledgeable and told her how the operation and recovery were going to go, which she said put her at ease.
I was first treated by a clinic doctor, who then set up an appointment for me to meet with the general surgeon. Although this first doctor seemed knowledgeable, she didn’t really answer any of my questions and still left me wondering. I was not really given any other options either, other than to go home. This left me with a less than positive outlook on the situation. A few days later, I met with the surgeon, Dr. Mukund Godbole. After talking with him, I felt comfortable that he knew what he was talking about and doing. He explained the history of how hernia surgeries used to be preformed as opposed to how they are done now to “ensure a faster recovery.” He asked about my lifestyle and how active I was and together we decided the best option for hernia repair, which he explained, “was a mesh piece which would make recovery faster and less painful than getting stitches.” I set up an appoint for surgery four days later, since it was “quickly getting worse and needed to be taken care of as soon as possible” according to Dr. Godbole.
I still had misgivings about getting surgery done at this hospital, so I had my Mom call around at home to see if there was a way I could get into a hospital at home. I thought it was strange that my doctor in Monmouth did not do an ultrasound or see how big the hernia was, although he had said when he was feeling around that it was as big as the tip of his thumb. No hospitals at home would be able to see me until the end of May, so I was forced to stick with OSF.
I had to go back the day after my consultation to get a blood test for a blood count. When I walked into the lab room, I was immediately placed into a room and the nurse followed in directly after me. I told my nurse about my fear of needles and blood, let alone getting my blood taken. I had explained that I had only gotten it done once before and almost fainted. She talked me through it while she was doing it. I had never had such a good experience with anything dealing with needles as that was. (Not to mention the chair was one of the most comfortable things I had ever sat in.)
The day of my surgery, I went into the Out Patient waiting room. I sat there for a minute before I was taken into the pre-operation room. The nurse had me read over a few sheets of paper dealing with the anesthesia, but explained that it was just for insurance purposes and unless I have an allergy I am unaware of, nothing bad would happen. I explained my fear of having an IV and that I have never had one before. She told me that they would not be able to give me laughing gas because they did not have a gas tank in the room I was in, but she reassured me that they would make it the most painless they possibly could and would make it a pleasurable experience. Instead of gas, I was given a shot in my hand that would numb my vain before they put the IV in. I though, a shot before a shot, I’m not so sure of that. The numbing shot involved little to no pain at all so when she put the IV in, there was no pain at all.
I was walked through everything from what my arm would feel like once the IV was in my body to why they gave me a hot blanket, and what would happen as they added drugs to my IV. The nurse administering the anesthesia talked with my parents and me to decide on the best solution for surgery, as well as the painkillers I would be admitted with during surgery to help reduce the pain immediately after surgery. My surgeon came out before I was pushed into the operation room, to meet with my parents and answer any questions they had that the nurses couldn’t answer. My parents were given lunch tickets and received a free lunch from the cafeteria in the hospital, which they said was not bad food at all.
When I was pushed into the operation room, I was greeted with a handful of nurses. They told me to move onto the operation table, which seemed extremely small. I talked with them for about five minutes while they put monitors on me and strapped my arms up to separate boards. Before I knew it, I was waking up and telling the nurses all about the dream I had. I was transferred back to my bed and was wheeled away.
The doctor had gone to the waiting room and explained to my parents how the surgery went and what he did. He explained that when he blew up my stomach with air, he saw that the hernia was a bit smaller than he had originally thought and he could use stitches as opposed to the mesh piece. He explained that recovery would not be as quick, but that the risk of it opening up again is not likely.
My parents returned to my room, and within 40 minutes I was released. I had to use the bathroom and walk, once I did that the nurse told me I could leave whenever I wanted. The nurses called in my prescriptions and my parents were able to pick them up as soon as we left the hospital.
For never having a surgery before, I had one of the most surprisingly comfortable experiences. I would recommend OSF hospital to anyone. The nurses were caring and took all of my concerns into consideration. They made sure I was comfortable at all times and explained in detail everything that would happen. My surgeon was extremely knowledgeable and put everything at ease. He was personable and explained the entire surgery beforehand, as well as telling me about the discomfort I would feel after surgery.
After being released, Runge’s incision became infected and she returned to the doctor to get it looked at. He told her “you will be bikini ready in no time” but “my scar is probably around three inches and definitely looks like I got knifed in an alley way. It has pulls in the line and looks terrible. It stills hurts sometimes, so I’m guessing it wasn't done properly?” She also added, “I went back and found out my doctor "retired" soon after I had my surgery, a little fishy if you ask me.”
When Runge looks back on the entire experience, as a whole, “I feel like there are some nurses that didn’t seem to know how to help me. But overall the hospital seemed more knowledgeable, as a whole, despite the doctor I had. Perhaps there are just certain individuals that are not properly trained, but I wouldn’t hold it against the hospital portion.” If she was to give advice to anyone needing a surgery and who are not able to go home, she says “I would call around and ask how the operation and recovery are for the surgery you’re going to have, then compare that to what the doctor tells you. I feel like that would be a quick and easy test to see if he or she is trustworthy. I wish I would have done that.”
By: Brittney Parker
Within the college student body, the OSF Clinic has a less than positive reputation. Is the bad rep of the clinic justified? This is a first hand evaluation by two students of one service provided by OSF: Surgery
Surgery is something no one ever predicts for themselves. One of the scariest things a person can hear is when a doctor tells him or her they must have surgery immediately before something worse happens. For college students who do not have primary doctors in Monmouth, many things begin to run through his or her mind. “The first thing I did was call my parents to see if I could come home to get surgery done there and be with my family,” says Kate Runge, who had her appendix removed in 2007. “I was a freshman and I had just moved into the college, I didn’t really know what to expect which scared me even more. All I knew was the bad things people had told me about the clinic, like misdiagnosing patients and lack of knowledge.” She went on to explain that this was her biggest fear. “As if surgery wasn’t bad enough I had to get it done at a place I was not comfortable with, that just added to it.”
I too was faced with these concerns when I was told I had to have surgery immediately. I was diagnosed with an umbilical hernia, and that if I didn’t get it taken care of, it would only get worse and cause my intestines to get pinched closed. If this was to happen, I would have to go in for emergency surgery, which according to the doctor would be a dangerous situation.
Runge checked into the emergency room at 4:30 in the morning and was taken to a room immediately after, despite common beliefs of waiting hours to be looked at. Although, this is where her experience began to frighten her. “After about an hour and what seemed like 50 tries later, I finally got an IV in my hand. That was after I had already passed out, because of the amount of pain I was in, while walking to the bathroom. Except the nurse made my roommate help me.” She explained that the doctor who was going to perform the surgery seemed knowledgeable and told her how the operation and recovery were going to go, which she said put her at ease.
I was first treated by a clinic doctor, who then set up an appointment for me to meet with the general surgeon. Although this first doctor seemed knowledgeable, she didn’t really answer any of my questions and still left me wondering. I was not really given any other options either, other than to go home. This left me with a less than positive outlook on the situation. A few days later, I met with the surgeon, Dr. Mukund Godbole. After talking with him, I felt comfortable that he knew what he was talking about and doing. He explained the history of how hernia surgeries used to be preformed as opposed to how they are done now to “ensure a faster recovery.” He asked about my lifestyle and how active I was and together we decided the best option for hernia repair, which he explained, “was a mesh piece which would make recovery faster and less painful than getting stitches.” I set up an appoint for surgery four days later, since it was “quickly getting worse and needed to be taken care of as soon as possible” according to Dr. Godbole.
I still had misgivings about getting surgery done at this hospital, so I had my Mom call around at home to see if there was a way I could get into a hospital at home. I thought it was strange that my doctor in Monmouth did not do an ultrasound or see how big the hernia was, although he had said when he was feeling around that it was as big as the tip of his thumb. No hospitals at home would be able to see me until the end of May, so I was forced to stick with OSF.
I had to go back the day after my consultation to get a blood test for a blood count. When I walked into the lab room, I was immediately placed into a room and the nurse followed in directly after me. I told my nurse about my fear of needles and blood, let alone getting my blood taken. I had explained that I had only gotten it done once before and almost fainted. She talked me through it while she was doing it. I had never had such a good experience with anything dealing with needles as that was. (Not to mention the chair was one of the most comfortable things I had ever sat in.)
The day of my surgery, I went into the Out Patient waiting room. I sat there for a minute before I was taken into the pre-operation room. The nurse had me read over a few sheets of paper dealing with the anesthesia, but explained that it was just for insurance purposes and unless I have an allergy I am unaware of, nothing bad would happen. I explained my fear of having an IV and that I have never had one before. She told me that they would not be able to give me laughing gas because they did not have a gas tank in the room I was in, but she reassured me that they would make it the most painless they possibly could and would make it a pleasurable experience. Instead of gas, I was given a shot in my hand that would numb my vain before they put the IV in. I though, a shot before a shot, I’m not so sure of that. The numbing shot involved little to no pain at all so when she put the IV in, there was no pain at all.
I was walked through everything from what my arm would feel like once the IV was in my body to why they gave me a hot blanket, and what would happen as they added drugs to my IV. The nurse administering the anesthesia talked with my parents and me to decide on the best solution for surgery, as well as the painkillers I would be admitted with during surgery to help reduce the pain immediately after surgery. My surgeon came out before I was pushed into the operation room, to meet with my parents and answer any questions they had that the nurses couldn’t answer. My parents were given lunch tickets and received a free lunch from the cafeteria in the hospital, which they said was not bad food at all.
When I was pushed into the operation room, I was greeted with a handful of nurses. They told me to move onto the operation table, which seemed extremely small. I talked with them for about five minutes while they put monitors on me and strapped my arms up to separate boards. Before I knew it, I was waking up and telling the nurses all about the dream I had. I was transferred back to my bed and was wheeled away.
The doctor had gone to the waiting room and explained to my parents how the surgery went and what he did. He explained that when he blew up my stomach with air, he saw that the hernia was a bit smaller than he had originally thought and he could use stitches as opposed to the mesh piece. He explained that recovery would not be as quick, but that the risk of it opening up again is not likely.
My parents returned to my room, and within 40 minutes I was released. I had to use the bathroom and walk, once I did that the nurse told me I could leave whenever I wanted. The nurses called in my prescriptions and my parents were able to pick them up as soon as we left the hospital.
For never having a surgery before, I had one of the most surprisingly comfortable experiences. I would recommend OSF hospital to anyone. The nurses were caring and took all of my concerns into consideration. They made sure I was comfortable at all times and explained in detail everything that would happen. My surgeon was extremely knowledgeable and put everything at ease. He was personable and explained the entire surgery beforehand, as well as telling me about the discomfort I would feel after surgery.
After being released, Runge’s incision became infected and she returned to the doctor to get it looked at. He told her “you will be bikini ready in no time” but “my scar is probably around three inches and definitely looks like I got knifed in an alley way. It has pulls in the line and looks terrible. It stills hurts sometimes, so I’m guessing it wasn't done properly?” She also added, “I went back and found out my doctor "retired" soon after I had my surgery, a little fishy if you ask me.”
When Runge looks back on the entire experience, as a whole, “I feel like there are some nurses that didn’t seem to know how to help me. But overall the hospital seemed more knowledgeable, as a whole, despite the doctor I had. Perhaps there are just certain individuals that are not properly trained, but I wouldn’t hold it against the hospital portion.” If she was to give advice to anyone needing a surgery and who are not able to go home, she says “I would call around and ask how the operation and recovery are for the surgery you’re going to have, then compare that to what the doctor tells you. I feel like that would be a quick and easy test to see if he or she is trustworthy. I wish I would have done that.”
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
SLOW GOING FOR NEW ROSEVILLE SCHOOL
by Michelle Nutting
(ROSEVILLE) Residents of Roseville and surrounding communities have high hopes for the new Roseville Community Christian School. But with a low turn out to last Thursday night’s meeting, one member of the Feasibility Committee, Paul Peterson, expressed some disappointment “The turnout was low on Thursday and that’s surprising because the first meeting a lot of people showed up.” A low attendance could indicate signs of low enrollment.
Peterson said, “We had 9 sign up last Thursday, I’m praying for 50 but I’m not sure what we’ll get, probably around 20.” Surveys were mailed out to Roseville residents handed out at the meeting. These surveys measure demographic information about each family interested in having its children attend the new school. The committee will meet this Friday to review surveys and determine how many students are expected to attend the school in August.
(ROSEVILLE) Residents of Roseville and surrounding communities have high hopes for the new Roseville Community Christian School. But with a low turn out to last Thursday night’s meeting, one member of the Feasibility Committee, Paul Peterson, expressed some disappointment “The turnout was low on Thursday and that’s surprising because the first meeting a lot of people showed up.” A low attendance could indicate signs of low enrollment.
Peterson said, “We had 9 sign up last Thursday, I’m praying for 50 but I’m not sure what we’ll get, probably around 20.” Surveys were mailed out to Roseville residents handed out at the meeting. These surveys measure demographic information about each family interested in having its children attend the new school. The committee will meet this Friday to review surveys and determine how many students are expected to attend the school in August.
Monday, May 3, 2010
ZEBESTOCK RETURNS
(MONMOUTH) Students at Monmouth College came together on Saturday night for Zeta Beta Tau's annual music festival Zebestock. Over fifteen acts performed throughout the evening to help raise money for ZBT's national philanthropy Children's Miracle Network.
Zebestock is ZBT's biggest annual fundraiser. All students are welcomed and encouraged to perform in the event, and since Monmouth's chapter of ZBT is packed full of musicians, there were no shortage of performances throughout the evening.
President of the fraternity John Gryzwa said "I think it's cool that we can come together and raise money by playing music, and doing something we all love to do."
Kassi Heald-Schmelzer, a senior at Monmouth, said that "We all look forward to Zebestock every year, so it's good to know that it's going to a good cause."
Children’s Miracle Network is a non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals. Donations from Zebestock helo Children’s Miracle Network fund medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of 17 million children each year. For more information on the Children's Miracle Network, go to http://www.childrensmiraclenetwork.org/Index.aspx
Zebestock is ZBT's biggest annual fundraiser. All students are welcomed and encouraged to perform in the event, and since Monmouth's chapter of ZBT is packed full of musicians, there were no shortage of performances throughout the evening.
President of the fraternity John Gryzwa said "I think it's cool that we can come together and raise money by playing music, and doing something we all love to do."
Kassi Heald-Schmelzer, a senior at Monmouth, said that "We all look forward to Zebestock every year, so it's good to know that it's going to a good cause."
Children’s Miracle Network is a non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals. Donations from Zebestock helo Children’s Miracle Network fund medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of 17 million children each year. For more information on the Children's Miracle Network, go to http://www.childrensmiraclenetwork.org/Index.aspx
Sunday, May 2, 2010
LATE SPORTS SCORES
TRACK
MONMOUTH, Ill. – The Monmouth College track team is right where coach Roger Haynes wants them to be after winning the men’s and women’s team titles at Saturday’s Fighting Scots Invitational.
Monmouth’s women won by more than 15 points and the men were first by just over eight points in the 12-team field.
SOFTBALL
May 2, 2010
Game 1
Monmouth 5, Cornell 4
Game 2
Monmouth 10 (13-20), Cornell 8
MONMOUTH, Ill. – The Monmouth College track team is right where coach Roger Haynes wants them to be after winning the men’s and women’s team titles at Saturday’s Fighting Scots Invitational.
Monmouth’s women won by more than 15 points and the men were first by just over eight points in the 12-team field.
SOFTBALL
May 2, 2010
Game 1
Monmouth 5, Cornell 4
Game 2
Monmouth 10 (13-20), Cornell 8
Thursday, April 29, 2010
A NEW SCHOOL FOR ROSEVILLE
Community Christan School Set to Open in August
by Michelle Nutting
With Roseville Elementary school closing its doors after the 2009-2010 school year, churches around the Roseville area have taken action to give Roseville residents another option for an elementary education. The community came together on Thursday night at the Roseville Community Church to discuss the new school.
Feasibility Committee member, Paul Peterson lead the discussion about what stage the school is currently in and what needs to happen next. The school will be located in the classroom section of the Roseville Community Church and will open its doors in August. Peterson explained that all building requirements, minus a few changes such as adding exit lights and door holders, have been met. Peterson is optimistic about the size of the school saying, “There will be plenty of classrooms.” Tasha Skees of Roseville explained how the school came about. “It was brought up a long time ago but action was never taken. But with the Roseville Elementary school closing, 3 elders decided it was time.”
However starting a new school creates some challenges. “We are looking for tuition to be between $2950 and $3500, but we are hoping to be as close to the $2950 mark as possible” said Peterson. “The tuition is not an upfront payment; the school board is looking at a monthly payment plan, with a higher cost upfront.” This tuition would not include books for the students, unless the school board decides on a curriculum where books are included. “If the school board chooses a curriculum with books included, parents will not have to pay $250.” However, the school still needs general classroom supplies as well as volunteer help in every aspect. Peterson stated that some generous gifts have already been donated to the Roseville Community Christian School. “We have received computers, which haven’t arrived yet, lumber for a playground, as well as labor help for the kitchen. The list goes on and on.”
The community has also considered the idea of having a scholarship fund for students. Skees has high hopes for the school. “I think it would be wonderful. My daughter is only two so she won’t be going there for awhile but it affects the town as a whole.”
The number of students they expect to attend the school is still unknown. If you are interested in donating or if you need any further information, please contact the Roseville Christian Church at 309-426-2131.
by Michelle Nutting
With Roseville Elementary school closing its doors after the 2009-2010 school year, churches around the Roseville area have taken action to give Roseville residents another option for an elementary education. The community came together on Thursday night at the Roseville Community Church to discuss the new school.
Feasibility Committee member, Paul Peterson lead the discussion about what stage the school is currently in and what needs to happen next. The school will be located in the classroom section of the Roseville Community Church and will open its doors in August. Peterson explained that all building requirements, minus a few changes such as adding exit lights and door holders, have been met. Peterson is optimistic about the size of the school saying, “There will be plenty of classrooms.” Tasha Skees of Roseville explained how the school came about. “It was brought up a long time ago but action was never taken. But with the Roseville Elementary school closing, 3 elders decided it was time.”
However starting a new school creates some challenges. “We are looking for tuition to be between $2950 and $3500, but we are hoping to be as close to the $2950 mark as possible” said Peterson. “The tuition is not an upfront payment; the school board is looking at a monthly payment plan, with a higher cost upfront.” This tuition would not include books for the students, unless the school board decides on a curriculum where books are included. “If the school board chooses a curriculum with books included, parents will not have to pay $250.” However, the school still needs general classroom supplies as well as volunteer help in every aspect. Peterson stated that some generous gifts have already been donated to the Roseville Community Christian School. “We have received computers, which haven’t arrived yet, lumber for a playground, as well as labor help for the kitchen. The list goes on and on.”
The community has also considered the idea of having a scholarship fund for students. Skees has high hopes for the school. “I think it would be wonderful. My daughter is only two so she won’t be going there for awhile but it affects the town as a whole.”
The number of students they expect to attend the school is still unknown. If you are interested in donating or if you need any further information, please contact the Roseville Christian Church at 309-426-2131.
SWINE FLU RERUNS?
H1N1 AGAIN?
By Ross Donnan
The general anxiety of the H1N1 virus that struck America recently has essentially melted away with the snow. There were two separate spikes in the number of cases confirmed around the U.S., and CDC (Center for Disease Control) and the Illinois Department of Health have always been predicting of a third spike or “wave” which is expected with a pandemic Flu. The first wave occurred in April 2009, and the second in October 2009, and officials are predicting a third wave in March-May of 2010.
The seasonal Flu usually hits its second peak around March to May, and the Administrator of the Warren County Health Department Jenna Link claims “We saw a slight peak in influenza A (which is not H1N1 just Influenza) activity the end of March first week in April but these are not confirmed H1N1 cases.” For Warren County “Things have been pretty quiet” says Link, “but the H1N1 vaccine has now been added to the seasonal Flu vaccine, so that should help.”
Just because we have not been hearing much about the virus does not mean we are out the woods quite yet. Officials say to keep getting vaccinated because the numbers of infection are low, which means there is limited exposure to H1N1 and people can build immunity. This also does not mean to stop taking all the necessary precautions to keep from getting ill, just because there is a lull in the amount of infection does not mean it won’t spike again. The CDC claims that when college students return home, they may bring the infection with them and spread it to family and friends.
SSo for now, we don’t have to brace ourselves for a third “wave”, but as previously mentioned the public should not let down its guard. Although some may feel as though the illness was overplayed, the reality is that it affected 41 million people nation wide and is connected to 10,000 deaths and localized cases are being reported daily. Although the numbers are fewer, the effects are just as devastating as before, so just keep washing those hands a lot.
By Ross Donnan
The general anxiety of the H1N1 virus that struck America recently has essentially melted away with the snow. There were two separate spikes in the number of cases confirmed around the U.S., and CDC (Center for Disease Control) and the Illinois Department of Health have always been predicting of a third spike or “wave” which is expected with a pandemic Flu. The first wave occurred in April 2009, and the second in October 2009, and officials are predicting a third wave in March-May of 2010.
The seasonal Flu usually hits its second peak around March to May, and the Administrator of the Warren County Health Department Jenna Link claims “We saw a slight peak in influenza A (which is not H1N1 just Influenza) activity the end of March first week in April but these are not confirmed H1N1 cases.” For Warren County “Things have been pretty quiet” says Link, “but the H1N1 vaccine has now been added to the seasonal Flu vaccine, so that should help.”
Just because we have not been hearing much about the virus does not mean we are out the woods quite yet. Officials say to keep getting vaccinated because the numbers of infection are low, which means there is limited exposure to H1N1 and people can build immunity. This also does not mean to stop taking all the necessary precautions to keep from getting ill, just because there is a lull in the amount of infection does not mean it won’t spike again. The CDC claims that when college students return home, they may bring the infection with them and spread it to family and friends.
SSo for now, we don’t have to brace ourselves for a third “wave”, but as previously mentioned the public should not let down its guard. Although some may feel as though the illness was overplayed, the reality is that it affected 41 million people nation wide and is connected to 10,000 deaths and localized cases are being reported daily. Although the numbers are fewer, the effects are just as devastating as before, so just keep washing those hands a lot.
SWINE FLU RERUNS?
H1N1 AGAIN?
By Ross Donnan
The general anxiety of the H1N1 virus that struck America recently has essentially melted away with the snow. There were two separate spikes in the number of cases confirmed around the U.S., and CDC (Center for Disease Control) and the Illinois Department of Health have always been predicting of a third spike or “wave” which is expected with a pandemic Flu. The first wave occurred in April 2009, and the second in October 2009, and officials are predicting a third wave in March-May of 2010.
The seasonal Flu usually hits its second peak around March to May, and the Administrator of the Warren County Health Department Jenna Link claims “We saw a slight peak in influenza A (which is not H1N1 just Influenza) activity the end of March first week in April but these are not confirmed H1N1 cases.” For Warren County “Things have been pretty quiet” says Link, “but the H1N1 vaccine has now been added to the seasonal Flu vaccine, so that should help.”
Just because we have not been hearing much about the virus does not mean we are out the woods quite yet. Officials say to keep getting vaccinated because the numbers of infection are low, which means there is limited exposure to H1N1 and people can build immunity. This also does not mean to stop taking all the necessary precautions to keep from getting ill, just because there is a lull in the amount of infection does not mean it won’t spike again. The CDC claims that when college students return home, they may bring the infection with them and spread it to family and friends.
SSo for now, we don’t have to brace ourselves for a third “wave”, but as previously mentioned we should not let down our guard. Although some may feel as though the illness was overplayed, the reality is that it affected 41 million people nation wide and is connected to 10,000 deaths and localized cases are being reported daily. Although the numbers are fewer, the effects are just as devastating as before, so just keep washing those hands, a lot.
By Ross Donnan
The general anxiety of the H1N1 virus that struck America recently has essentially melted away with the snow. There were two separate spikes in the number of cases confirmed around the U.S., and CDC (Center for Disease Control) and the Illinois Department of Health have always been predicting of a third spike or “wave” which is expected with a pandemic Flu. The first wave occurred in April 2009, and the second in October 2009, and officials are predicting a third wave in March-May of 2010.
The seasonal Flu usually hits its second peak around March to May, and the Administrator of the Warren County Health Department Jenna Link claims “We saw a slight peak in influenza A (which is not H1N1 just Influenza) activity the end of March first week in April but these are not confirmed H1N1 cases.” For Warren County “Things have been pretty quiet” says Link, “but the H1N1 vaccine has now been added to the seasonal Flu vaccine, so that should help.”
Just because we have not been hearing much about the virus does not mean we are out the woods quite yet. Officials say to keep getting vaccinated because the numbers of infection are low, which means there is limited exposure to H1N1 and people can build immunity. This also does not mean to stop taking all the necessary precautions to keep from getting ill, just because there is a lull in the amount of infection does not mean it won’t spike again. The CDC claims that when college students return home, they may bring the infection with them and spread it to family and friends.
SSo for now, we don’t have to brace ourselves for a third “wave”, but as previously mentioned we should not let down our guard. Although some may feel as though the illness was overplayed, the reality is that it affected 41 million people nation wide and is connected to 10,000 deaths and localized cases are being reported daily. Although the numbers are fewer, the effects are just as devastating as before, so just keep washing those hands, a lot.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
SCHOOL VANDALS REMAIN AT LARGE
THE CLEANUP
By Emily Friedrich
It was a community effort to clean up the extensive damage to the two vandalized schools in Monmouth. It was an especially large undertaking for Immaculate Conception, the small parochial school, which had to close its doors on Monday. It took a small army of thirty workers from a disaster restoration service out of Chicago along with the Immaculate Conception crew to make the building safe enough for students on Tuesday. MRHS was able to have a quick enough turnaround time to open doors on Monday.
The damage to the two schools vandalized over the weekend was extensive. Police and school officials say that tens of thousands of dollars worth of property were destroyed at the two schools. Over half of the computers at Immaculate Conception were ruined, many of which were brand new. The MRHS auditorium was awash in chemicals, as the vandals discharged fire extinguishers. 560 chairs in the auditorium had to be individually scrubbed down.
Middle school teacher Teri Bruner says she feels personally violated. “That’s what makes you feel so vulnerable when something like this has happened. I feel like I’ve been hit in the stomach just as hard as can be.”
MRHS Principal Jeff Bryan says the incident has bigger implications for the community. “You don’t hear kids say look what they did to the school, it’s look what they did to our school.” He understands just how personally the students and community are taking it. “They want whoever’s done it to get caught.”
Both schools are in the process of replacing valuable items, but each expressed it’s not the material items that count. “We’re going to be okay. We can replace the things that were damaged. No one was hurt and those are the important things,” said Bruner. Her goal is to make sure her students still feel comfortable at school. “We want them to feel safe. We want to acknowledge that we have had a tragedy and something happened, but we’re going to be okay because of that in spite of what occurred. We want them to know that things that were damaged were things and not people.”
Among the items that are replaceable, Bryan says it’s the sentimental items that cannot be replaced are what hurts the most. He was not surprised at how many people called the High School inquiring about the well-being of the 1983 state football championship trophy. “I really feel like of all the things a vandal can do, to damage the kid’s trophies, you’re asking to get caught.”
No arrests have been made so far, but the Monmouth Police Department is following leads. Local authorities were able to collect forensic evidence like fingerprints from some of the trophies at MRHS and footprints at ICS. Bryan is optimistic. “Somebody will start talking about it and bragging. Some kids will hear about it, and they’ll tell us about it.”
By Emily Friedrich
It was a community effort to clean up the extensive damage to the two vandalized schools in Monmouth. It was an especially large undertaking for Immaculate Conception, the small parochial school, which had to close its doors on Monday. It took a small army of thirty workers from a disaster restoration service out of Chicago along with the Immaculate Conception crew to make the building safe enough for students on Tuesday. MRHS was able to have a quick enough turnaround time to open doors on Monday.
The damage to the two schools vandalized over the weekend was extensive. Police and school officials say that tens of thousands of dollars worth of property were destroyed at the two schools. Over half of the computers at Immaculate Conception were ruined, many of which were brand new. The MRHS auditorium was awash in chemicals, as the vandals discharged fire extinguishers. 560 chairs in the auditorium had to be individually scrubbed down.
Middle school teacher Teri Bruner says she feels personally violated. “That’s what makes you feel so vulnerable when something like this has happened. I feel like I’ve been hit in the stomach just as hard as can be.”
MRHS Principal Jeff Bryan says the incident has bigger implications for the community. “You don’t hear kids say look what they did to the school, it’s look what they did to our school.” He understands just how personally the students and community are taking it. “They want whoever’s done it to get caught.”
Both schools are in the process of replacing valuable items, but each expressed it’s not the material items that count. “We’re going to be okay. We can replace the things that were damaged. No one was hurt and those are the important things,” said Bruner. Her goal is to make sure her students still feel comfortable at school. “We want them to feel safe. We want to acknowledge that we have had a tragedy and something happened, but we’re going to be okay because of that in spite of what occurred. We want them to know that things that were damaged were things and not people.”
Among the items that are replaceable, Bryan says it’s the sentimental items that cannot be replaced are what hurts the most. He was not surprised at how many people called the High School inquiring about the well-being of the 1983 state football championship trophy. “I really feel like of all the things a vandal can do, to damage the kid’s trophies, you’re asking to get caught.”
No arrests have been made so far, but the Monmouth Police Department is following leads. Local authorities were able to collect forensic evidence like fingerprints from some of the trophies at MRHS and footprints at ICS. Bryan is optimistic. “Somebody will start talking about it and bragging. Some kids will hear about it, and they’ll tell us about it.”
Monday, April 26, 2010
SCHOOL VANDALISM FOLLOW
The following information was gathered by reporter Ashley Lutz while covering the school vandalism story:
ICS is no longer requesting help from the public with the actual cleanup at the school. However, some students at the school have organized a garage sale for the community where you can either buy or donate items for them to sell. All the money is going to ICS. The garage sale is May 1st on 717 Fairway Dr. from 8 to 2 The woman in charge is Lori Ferguson. Cell: 309-2217970 or home: 309-7342753
ICS is no longer requesting help from the public with the actual cleanup at the school. However, some students at the school have organized a garage sale for the community where you can either buy or donate items for them to sell. All the money is going to ICS. The garage sale is May 1st on 717 Fairway Dr. from 8 to 2 The woman in charge is Lori Ferguson. Cell: 309-2217970 or home: 309-7342753
TWO MONMOUTH SCHOOLS HIT BY VANDALS
MAJOR DAMAGE AT BOTH SCHOOLS
By Maureen Soso
Monmouth Police took the unusual step of issuing a press release following public demands for more information about major vandalism at two Monmouth schools over the weekend.
Police say that unknown suspects broke into Monmouth Roseville High School and Immaculate Conception School during the overnight hours of Friday April 23rd 2010 andthe early hours of Saturday April 24th 2010.
Almost every room in both schools - including libraries, classrooms, locker rooms, and kitchens - were ransacked resulting in thousands of dollars in damage. Both schools also had trophies and trophy cases as well as computers and other electronic equipment destroyed.
Five Monmouth Police Officers and two Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigators are on the scene. The investigators say that evidence was recovered at both schools. Despite the weekend crimes, Monmouth-Roseville High School was in session today, while Immaculate Conception will resume classes tomorrow.
By Maureen Soso
Monmouth Police took the unusual step of issuing a press release following public demands for more information about major vandalism at two Monmouth schools over the weekend.
Police say that unknown suspects broke into Monmouth Roseville High School and Immaculate Conception School during the overnight hours of Friday April 23rd 2010 andthe early hours of Saturday April 24th 2010.
Almost every room in both schools - including libraries, classrooms, locker rooms, and kitchens - were ransacked resulting in thousands of dollars in damage. Both schools also had trophies and trophy cases as well as computers and other electronic equipment destroyed.
Five Monmouth Police Officers and two Illinois State Police Crime Scene Investigators are on the scene. The investigators say that evidence was recovered at both schools. Despite the weekend crimes, Monmouth-Roseville High School was in session today, while Immaculate Conception will resume classes tomorrow.
MONMOUTH ENTERS A DIVERSE ERA
THE NEW FACES OF MONMOUTH
By Ashley Lutz
Diversity is on the rise in the city of Monmouth, Il, and its largely due to the need for workers at one of Monmouth’s largest employers, which has difficulty finding Caucasian workers to apply for jobs.
Liz Voyles, the President of New World Immigration Services, says “This is mainly due to the ongoing need for laborers at Farmland Foods.” She says it is common for Mexicans and African refugees with green cards to work at the meat packing plant.
Families like Alma and Claudia Conches moved to Monmouth for better working experiences. Alma Conches and her family moved here from Mexico when she was only in sixth grade. She explains how hard the transition was, especially without knowing English. “School was tough at first, but I would stay after to work with one of the Spanish teachers who taught me English” Conches states.
Conches explains how she has noticed the rise in diversity. “When we first moved here, there were not too many other Mexican families. Now I see them all around.” She also talked about the two Mexican restaurants in town and the growing amount of Mexican grocery stores. Conches adds, “It is nice to see things that remind me of Mexico, even thought I do not live there any more.”
Alma’s cousin, Claudia Conches has a similar story. Her family moved here a little after her uncles moved to DeKalb, IL. She was six years old when her family picked up and moved to Monmouth because of the work opportunities also. “Monmouth was the first place my parents felt comfortable with their jobs” says Conches.
By Ashley Lutz
Diversity is on the rise in the city of Monmouth, Il, and its largely due to the need for workers at one of Monmouth’s largest employers, which has difficulty finding Caucasian workers to apply for jobs.
Liz Voyles, the President of New World Immigration Services, says “This is mainly due to the ongoing need for laborers at Farmland Foods.” She says it is common for Mexicans and African refugees with green cards to work at the meat packing plant.
Families like Alma and Claudia Conches moved to Monmouth for better working experiences. Alma Conches and her family moved here from Mexico when she was only in sixth grade. She explains how hard the transition was, especially without knowing English. “School was tough at first, but I would stay after to work with one of the Spanish teachers who taught me English” Conches states.
Conches explains how she has noticed the rise in diversity. “When we first moved here, there were not too many other Mexican families. Now I see them all around.” She also talked about the two Mexican restaurants in town and the growing amount of Mexican grocery stores. Conches adds, “It is nice to see things that remind me of Mexico, even thought I do not live there any more.”
Alma’s cousin, Claudia Conches has a similar story. Her family moved here a little after her uncles moved to DeKalb, IL. She was six years old when her family picked up and moved to Monmouth because of the work opportunities also. “Monmouth was the first place my parents felt comfortable with their jobs” says Conches.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
LATE SPORTS SCORES
BASEBALL
April 24, 2010 vs. Knox
Game 1
Monmouth 8, Knox 1
Game 2
Monmouth 12 (11-18, 4-4), Knox 2
The Scots kept their playoff hopes alive and moved Roger Sander to within one win of his 300th career victory in an 8-1, 12-2 double-header sweep of Knox. Robbie Hinkle had a day for the Scots, going 7-for-9 with eight RBIs while banging out four doubles and a three-run homer.
SOFTBALL
April 24, 2010 vs. Grinnell
Game 1
Monmouth 8 (11-19, 7-5), Grinnell 0 (6)
Game 2
Rained out
Monmouth clinched their third straight Midwest Conference Tournament berth with an 8-0 win over Grinnell. Charlotte Hoffmann scored the only run Kelsey Williams would need in the second inning. Hoffmann raced home with the game's first run on Daphne Beal's base hit.
April 24, 2010 vs. Knox
Game 1
Monmouth 8, Knox 1
Game 2
Monmouth 12 (11-18, 4-4), Knox 2
The Scots kept their playoff hopes alive and moved Roger Sander to within one win of his 300th career victory in an 8-1, 12-2 double-header sweep of Knox. Robbie Hinkle had a day for the Scots, going 7-for-9 with eight RBIs while banging out four doubles and a three-run homer.
SOFTBALL
April 24, 2010 vs. Grinnell
Game 1
Monmouth 8 (11-19, 7-5), Grinnell 0 (6)
Game 2
Rained out
Monmouth clinched their third straight Midwest Conference Tournament berth with an 8-0 win over Grinnell. Charlotte Hoffmann scored the only run Kelsey Williams would need in the second inning. Hoffmann raced home with the game's first run on Daphne Beal's base hit.
Friday, April 23, 2010
RETURNING THE FAVOR
CLEAN UP TEAM FOR THE DAY
By: Brittney Parker
While driving through Monmouth early Saturday morning, between the neighborhood garage sales and children playing in the parks, the Monmouth College football team could be seen raking leaves, picking up sticks, planting flowers, and trimming back trees.
This past weekend marked the football team’s second annual community clean up. The players signed up in groups of three and four and were assigned to work at one of sixteen places. Property owners contacted Coach Steve Bell to request clean up crews. As far as what the players are required to do at the homes, Bell said, “It all depends on the owners. Some just need yard work done, like planting flowers, and some ask them to move heavy furniture.”
The player’s were not necessarily finished after they finished working at one house. Senior Trevor Newton explained that “We have to call coach and ask him where to go next. He sends us to a house nearby to help those guys out. We really aren’t done until noon, and there’s no slacking off.”
“It’s cool to be able to help a community that has always supported us. It’s just another way for us to be able to give back,“ according to junior Fletcher Morgan. Morgan raked a yard full of leaves then moved heavy items from the basement to outside. “The bags of homemade cookies we got were a nice surprise in the morning... definitively got me moving,” says Morgan while eating a handful of chocolate chip cookies during a break.
Sophomore Corey Bishop said, “It kinda brings us closer and makes us work on teamwork, which shows when we get on the field. We have to learn to work together and communicate effectively. I guess that shows in the success we’ve had for in past years.” He goes on to say, “Even though it’s a lot about football, it helps us realize that we don’t just go to Monmouth College for football, there is a lot more to it.”
A major reason for the clean up within the community is to do just that, show the players that it is important to help out and give back to the people that support them.
By: Brittney Parker
While driving through Monmouth early Saturday morning, between the neighborhood garage sales and children playing in the parks, the Monmouth College football team could be seen raking leaves, picking up sticks, planting flowers, and trimming back trees.
This past weekend marked the football team’s second annual community clean up. The players signed up in groups of three and four and were assigned to work at one of sixteen places. Property owners contacted Coach Steve Bell to request clean up crews. As far as what the players are required to do at the homes, Bell said, “It all depends on the owners. Some just need yard work done, like planting flowers, and some ask them to move heavy furniture.”
The player’s were not necessarily finished after they finished working at one house. Senior Trevor Newton explained that “We have to call coach and ask him where to go next. He sends us to a house nearby to help those guys out. We really aren’t done until noon, and there’s no slacking off.”
“It’s cool to be able to help a community that has always supported us. It’s just another way for us to be able to give back,“ according to junior Fletcher Morgan. Morgan raked a yard full of leaves then moved heavy items from the basement to outside. “The bags of homemade cookies we got were a nice surprise in the morning... definitively got me moving,” says Morgan while eating a handful of chocolate chip cookies during a break.
Sophomore Corey Bishop said, “It kinda brings us closer and makes us work on teamwork, which shows when we get on the field. We have to learn to work together and communicate effectively. I guess that shows in the success we’ve had for in past years.” He goes on to say, “Even though it’s a lot about football, it helps us realize that we don’t just go to Monmouth College for football, there is a lot more to it.”
A major reason for the clean up within the community is to do just that, show the players that it is important to help out and give back to the people that support them.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
CONFLICTED VICTORY
ONE FOR THE RECORD BOOKS
by Lucas Pauley
On Saturday April 3 Senior Dan Higgins broke the school record for javelin with a toss of 208’7 at the Washington Invitational in St. Louis, Mo. Breaking the record was bittersweet for Higgins because the record had been held by his coach, Roger Haynes, who set the record in 1982. The record granted Higgins the title of Midwest Conference Men’s Field Performer of the Week.
“It was hard to break my own coach’s record but it was an amazing feeling to be able to break a record that has stood for so long,” Higgins said.
Higgins has been constantly improving over the past three years. In 2008 and 2009, Higgins was the javelin conference champion. He also qualified for nationals the past two years by a process of provisional qualifying, but did not get to go. Even so, after struggling with an injury to his left oblique all of the 2009 season, Higgins recorded a 193’8, which was his personal best at the time.
Higgins returned to Monmouth in January to student teach at West Central Middle School in Biggsville, Ill. Because Higgins had not completed all his years of athletic eligibility Higgins knew that he had a chance to improve on the progress he had made over the past two years. “I realized I was here for a reason so I might as well take full advantage of the opportunity,” Higgins said.
Higgins has enjoyed his time at West Central this semester, where he is student teaching the physical education classes for the middle school. Balancing the tasks of being a student teacher and a student athlete has proved to be an interesting adjustment to his life at home.“It has definitely been a challenge. I wake up at 6:30 in the morning and I usually don’t get back to my down until 7 at night. But I find myself having fun the whole time,” Higgins said.
Once Higgins knew that he was returning to school he began to watch a lot of film of Olympic javelin throwers and worked hard to improve his concentration while on the field. The preparation has paid off for Higgins, but he has had his sights set on more than just breaking the conference record.
“I am feeling really confident right now and hope to break my own record and hopefully go to nationals and do even better,” Higgins said.
Higgins, who is currently third in the nation for the javelin throw, says he is going to continue to prepare just as he has been doing all season.
I just want to focus even more on my concentration as I prepare for the rest of the season and nationals,” Higgins said.
With his throw this past weekend Higgins has automatically qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Championships which begin on Saturday, May 27 in Berea, Ohio.
by Lucas Pauley
On Saturday April 3 Senior Dan Higgins broke the school record for javelin with a toss of 208’7 at the Washington Invitational in St. Louis, Mo. Breaking the record was bittersweet for Higgins because the record had been held by his coach, Roger Haynes, who set the record in 1982. The record granted Higgins the title of Midwest Conference Men’s Field Performer of the Week.
“It was hard to break my own coach’s record but it was an amazing feeling to be able to break a record that has stood for so long,” Higgins said.
Higgins has been constantly improving over the past three years. In 2008 and 2009, Higgins was the javelin conference champion. He also qualified for nationals the past two years by a process of provisional qualifying, but did not get to go. Even so, after struggling with an injury to his left oblique all of the 2009 season, Higgins recorded a 193’8, which was his personal best at the time.
Higgins returned to Monmouth in January to student teach at West Central Middle School in Biggsville, Ill. Because Higgins had not completed all his years of athletic eligibility Higgins knew that he had a chance to improve on the progress he had made over the past two years. “I realized I was here for a reason so I might as well take full advantage of the opportunity,” Higgins said.
Higgins has enjoyed his time at West Central this semester, where he is student teaching the physical education classes for the middle school. Balancing the tasks of being a student teacher and a student athlete has proved to be an interesting adjustment to his life at home.“It has definitely been a challenge. I wake up at 6:30 in the morning and I usually don’t get back to my down until 7 at night. But I find myself having fun the whole time,” Higgins said.
Once Higgins knew that he was returning to school he began to watch a lot of film of Olympic javelin throwers and worked hard to improve his concentration while on the field. The preparation has paid off for Higgins, but he has had his sights set on more than just breaking the conference record.
“I am feeling really confident right now and hope to break my own record and hopefully go to nationals and do even better,” Higgins said.
Higgins, who is currently third in the nation for the javelin throw, says he is going to continue to prepare just as he has been doing all season.
I just want to focus even more on my concentration as I prepare for the rest of the season and nationals,” Higgins said.
With his throw this past weekend Higgins has automatically qualified for the NCAA Outdoor Championships which begin on Saturday, May 27 in Berea, Ohio.
Monday, April 19, 2010
CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON
MONMOUTH, Ill. – The Monmouth College track team recorded three school records and two athletes come within a whisper of NCAA Championship’s automatic qualifying standards at last Saturday’s meet at Augustana College where the women placed third and the men fifth.
Tyler Hannam (Woodhull, Ill./Alwood) equaled the Fighting Scots’ high jump record and cleared the NCAA provisional qualifying height in the process. The junior won the event by two full inches and cleared 6’10-3/4” to tie national champion Eric Ealy’s school mark from 1986. Hannam’s nation’s-best height was just a quarter inch from the automatic qualifying height. Nick Byom and Sean Wells each cleared 6’6” to take third and fifth, respectively.
Recuperating through the indoor season has paid off for Luke Reschke (Geneseo, Ill./Geneseo) who eclipsed his own 400-meter dash school record. Reschke turned in the top time in the nation of 47.52 to win by nearly a second. His time was just two-hundredths off the automatic qualifying standard. He also placed third in the 200 with a time of 21.99. Shane Reschke ran a 49.78 in the 400 to finish seventh in the 400.
Monmouth’s third record-setting performance came on the women’s side where Rachel Bowden (Lexington, Ill./Lexington) set the new standard in the 800. The freshman clocked a 2:20.58 to take eighth in the field of 25.
Thrower Gloria Lehr recorded an improved provisional mark in the discus. Her lifetime-best throw of 146’11” placed her second and moved her to third in the national rankings. Lehr and Amanda Streeter added more points in the shot put. Lehr was sixth at 41’4-1/2’ and Streeter turned in a throw of 39’1-1/4” to take eighth. Streeter also had a career-best 151’0” in the hammer throw to place seventh.
The Scots took four of the top seven places in the women’s high jump after each cleared 4’11-3/4”. Sarah Stinson was third, Kaci Lierman tied for fourth, Chelsey Widdop took sixth and Heather Hull placed seventh.
Morgan Leffel led three Scots in the scoring for the women’s long jump. Leffel soared a winning distance of 16’9-3/4” to win by four inches. Widdop placed third at 15’11” and Alison Andrews was eighth at 15’6”. Leffel also ran a PR in the 400 where she was fifth in 1:00.39.
Javelin thrower Brittany McCline unleashed a personal-best to place second in that event. McCline’s mark of 125’2” improved her previous best by nearly five feet. Lehr placed second at 124’9” and Hull was eighth at 106’6”
Just six inches kept Whitney Didier from winning the pole vault. Didier cleared 11’2-1/5” to place second. Widdop and Didier were 5-6 in the 400 hurdles. Widdop clocked a 1:10.06 and Didier a 1:10.86.
Jae Moore scored points in two sprints. Her 12.72 in the 100 placed her fourth and she ran a 26.52 in the 200 to finish sixth.
The Scots will be competing at the Drake Relays and the Loras Open this weekend.
Tyler Hannam (Woodhull, Ill./Alwood) equaled the Fighting Scots’ high jump record and cleared the NCAA provisional qualifying height in the process. The junior won the event by two full inches and cleared 6’10-3/4” to tie national champion Eric Ealy’s school mark from 1986. Hannam’s nation’s-best height was just a quarter inch from the automatic qualifying height. Nick Byom and Sean Wells each cleared 6’6” to take third and fifth, respectively.
Recuperating through the indoor season has paid off for Luke Reschke (Geneseo, Ill./Geneseo) who eclipsed his own 400-meter dash school record. Reschke turned in the top time in the nation of 47.52 to win by nearly a second. His time was just two-hundredths off the automatic qualifying standard. He also placed third in the 200 with a time of 21.99. Shane Reschke ran a 49.78 in the 400 to finish seventh in the 400.
Monmouth’s third record-setting performance came on the women’s side where Rachel Bowden (Lexington, Ill./Lexington) set the new standard in the 800. The freshman clocked a 2:20.58 to take eighth in the field of 25.
Thrower Gloria Lehr recorded an improved provisional mark in the discus. Her lifetime-best throw of 146’11” placed her second and moved her to third in the national rankings. Lehr and Amanda Streeter added more points in the shot put. Lehr was sixth at 41’4-1/2’ and Streeter turned in a throw of 39’1-1/4” to take eighth. Streeter also had a career-best 151’0” in the hammer throw to place seventh.
The Scots took four of the top seven places in the women’s high jump after each cleared 4’11-3/4”. Sarah Stinson was third, Kaci Lierman tied for fourth, Chelsey Widdop took sixth and Heather Hull placed seventh.
Morgan Leffel led three Scots in the scoring for the women’s long jump. Leffel soared a winning distance of 16’9-3/4” to win by four inches. Widdop placed third at 15’11” and Alison Andrews was eighth at 15’6”. Leffel also ran a PR in the 400 where she was fifth in 1:00.39.
Javelin thrower Brittany McCline unleashed a personal-best to place second in that event. McCline’s mark of 125’2” improved her previous best by nearly five feet. Lehr placed second at 124’9” and Hull was eighth at 106’6”
Just six inches kept Whitney Didier from winning the pole vault. Didier cleared 11’2-1/5” to place second. Widdop and Didier were 5-6 in the 400 hurdles. Widdop clocked a 1:10.06 and Didier a 1:10.86.
Jae Moore scored points in two sprints. Her 12.72 in the 100 placed her fourth and she ran a 26.52 in the 200 to finish sixth.
The Scots will be competing at the Drake Relays and the Loras Open this weekend.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
LATE BASEBALL SCORES
April 18, 2010
Game 1
Monmouth 8, Univ. Chicago 7
Game 2
Univ. Chicago 19, Monmouth 7 (8-16, 2-4)
Fresh off a double-header sweep of Knox, Monmouth split a Sunday twinbill with the University of Chicago, taking the opener 8-7, but falling in Game 2, 19-7. Trailing 7-3 in the fifth inning of Game 1, the Scots took advantage of a hit batsman and an error to put four runs on the board. Brad Winkler supplied the big blow with a two-run base hit to trim it to 7-6. Tom Shaver then tied the game at 7-7 with a sac fly. Tied in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded, Kyle Higginson singled in Brett Peterson with the winning run to give Phil Scott the win in relief. Monmouth never lead in Game 2, spotting the Maroons four first inning runs in the seven inning contest. Mitch Comstock and Caleb Ruyle drove in two runs each.
Game 1
Monmouth 8, Univ. Chicago 7
Game 2
Univ. Chicago 19, Monmouth 7 (8-16, 2-4)
Fresh off a double-header sweep of Knox, Monmouth split a Sunday twinbill with the University of Chicago, taking the opener 8-7, but falling in Game 2, 19-7. Trailing 7-3 in the fifth inning of Game 1, the Scots took advantage of a hit batsman and an error to put four runs on the board. Brad Winkler supplied the big blow with a two-run base hit to trim it to 7-6. Tom Shaver then tied the game at 7-7 with a sac fly. Tied in the bottom of the ninth with the bases loaded, Kyle Higginson singled in Brett Peterson with the winning run to give Phil Scott the win in relief. Monmouth never lead in Game 2, spotting the Maroons four first inning runs in the seven inning contest. Mitch Comstock and Caleb Ruyle drove in two runs each.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
COUNTY BOARD
COUNTY FACES GRANT REDUCTIONS
by Kerri Yost
Jenna Link of the Warren County Health Department outlined areas of concern regarding the county’s health at the County Board meeting this week. The Department is expected to lose two grants due to state budget cuts with “the women’s health grant taking a big hit,” explained Link.
Link also feared that the department may lose grant funding to test for West Nile Virus in the area. This is due to the low number of reported cases of the virus in Warren County. Areas with more cases of the virus are prioritized.
The department is also still closely watching Influenza A and H1N1 as there was a spike in influenza cases reported in the county in the previous two months. Although there is a large amount of H1N1 vaccine still available, much of it is outdated and will need to be destroyed. Link says that the demand for the vaccine was drastically overestimated last year and, “there will be a lot of vaccine that will go to waste.”
A presentation was also given by Ken Crain of Key Builders regardubg the possibility of fixing the roof at the courthouse. “Honestly, I would recommend replacing the entire roof,” said Crain, rather than just try and patch it again. After much discussion, further information about cost and options was requested from Crain to be presented at the Building and Grounds committee meeting on May 5.
by Kerri Yost
Jenna Link of the Warren County Health Department outlined areas of concern regarding the county’s health at the County Board meeting this week. The Department is expected to lose two grants due to state budget cuts with “the women’s health grant taking a big hit,” explained Link.
Link also feared that the department may lose grant funding to test for West Nile Virus in the area. This is due to the low number of reported cases of the virus in Warren County. Areas with more cases of the virus are prioritized.
The department is also still closely watching Influenza A and H1N1 as there was a spike in influenza cases reported in the county in the previous two months. Although there is a large amount of H1N1 vaccine still available, much of it is outdated and will need to be destroyed. Link says that the demand for the vaccine was drastically overestimated last year and, “there will be a lot of vaccine that will go to waste.”
A presentation was also given by Ken Crain of Key Builders regardubg the possibility of fixing the roof at the courthouse. “Honestly, I would recommend replacing the entire roof,” said Crain, rather than just try and patch it again. After much discussion, further information about cost and options was requested from Crain to be presented at the Building and Grounds committee meeting on May 5.
Friday, April 16, 2010
A PEER REVIEW
“ATTEND THE TALE OF SWEENEY TODD…”
A Theatre Review by Tynan Sinks
There’s a buzz in town about the spring musical Sweeney Todd that premiered Thursday in The Wells Theater at Monmouth College. And rightfully so. Residents and students can only experience a full musical once every two years, and this one is well worth the wait.
From the moment you step into the theater, you are transported to dark and dreary 19th century London. The chorus members’ ominous and foreboding energy grabs you from the opening number and carries you throughout the show. Though the show has little choreography, every move that the actors make is calculated and so well rehearsed that they give the show momentum from the very beginning. The standout performance of the evening was given by Emily Frazer, the female lead Mrs. Lovett. With her strong understanding of the character she was playing and her impeccable comedic timing, she commanded your attention throughout the entire performance. Dane Feenstra impresses the audience yet again. With his effortless vocal talent, he embodies his character Anthony, and was a delight to watch. Mike Carioto showed the greatest dimension, leaving the audience stirred with his interpretation of the character Tobias.
The lead male character, Todd, was played by Nick Munson. Nick’s vocal range continues to impress, though his performance of the brooding and angry character of Todd was less than believable. Danielle Kita played Johanna, but showed little understanding of the conflict that her character was experiencing, though she too was a vocal high point of the production. The set design of this production is one of the best that Monmouth has ever seen. The backdrop of warehouse windows, Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop, Pirelli’s wagon, all came to life before the eyes of the audience. Another visually stunning moment was the “City on Fire” sequence when the chorus helps move the show along to its immanent climax.
As a whole, Sweeney Todd is one of the strongest productions that Monmouth has seen in recent years.
A Theatre Review by Tynan Sinks
There’s a buzz in town about the spring musical Sweeney Todd that premiered Thursday in The Wells Theater at Monmouth College. And rightfully so. Residents and students can only experience a full musical once every two years, and this one is well worth the wait.
From the moment you step into the theater, you are transported to dark and dreary 19th century London. The chorus members’ ominous and foreboding energy grabs you from the opening number and carries you throughout the show. Though the show has little choreography, every move that the actors make is calculated and so well rehearsed that they give the show momentum from the very beginning. The standout performance of the evening was given by Emily Frazer, the female lead Mrs. Lovett. With her strong understanding of the character she was playing and her impeccable comedic timing, she commanded your attention throughout the entire performance. Dane Feenstra impresses the audience yet again. With his effortless vocal talent, he embodies his character Anthony, and was a delight to watch. Mike Carioto showed the greatest dimension, leaving the audience stirred with his interpretation of the character Tobias.
The lead male character, Todd, was played by Nick Munson. Nick’s vocal range continues to impress, though his performance of the brooding and angry character of Todd was less than believable. Danielle Kita played Johanna, but showed little understanding of the conflict that her character was experiencing, though she too was a vocal high point of the production. The set design of this production is one of the best that Monmouth has ever seen. The backdrop of warehouse windows, Mrs. Lovett’s pie shop, Pirelli’s wagon, all came to life before the eyes of the audience. Another visually stunning moment was the “City on Fire” sequence when the chorus helps move the show along to its immanent climax.
As a whole, Sweeney Todd is one of the strongest productions that Monmouth has seen in recent years.
TAX DAY PROTEST
TEA PARTY COMES TO MONMOUTH
By Samantha Latora
An estimated 200 people clad in red, white, and blue, gathered on Monmouth College’s Dunlap Terrace Thursday to participate in and observe the Tax Day Tea Party. Protestors held signs high in the air saying “Obama Commander in Thief”, “This Change Sucks”, and “Stop spending money we don’t have”
Senior Monmouth College student, Seth Cocquit organized the rally. “The purpose of this event is to spread awareness to students and to the community that there are alternatives to the current leadership in Washington D.C.,” Cocquit stated. Another Monmouth College student, Stephanie Arrowsmith, said “This event is for the people of the community to discuss feelings against big government and their distribution of our money.” Arrowsmith agrees that something must be done, “Politicians are getting raises when there are people in our country and other countries who are starving.”
Several community members, including Professor Dick Johnston, Joyce Fox, David Peterson, and Larry Mason spoke at the gathering. Warren County resident Joyce Fox boldly stated, “I am not insured and I don’t want Obama care.” Gina O’Sullivan, of Monmouth, Illinois said she is tired of the way the government is being run. “I hope enough people wake up and realize the government isn’t ours anymore. If we don’t fight, we will lose completely.”
A single protestor carrying signs protesting against the Tea Party movement circulated through the crowd and condemned not only the movement, but Fox News, and the Tea Party’s racist roots in a boisterous voice. A security guard quietly asked him to leave. He did so, but not without first raising his voice on several other topics.
By Samantha Latora
An estimated 200 people clad in red, white, and blue, gathered on Monmouth College’s Dunlap Terrace Thursday to participate in and observe the Tax Day Tea Party. Protestors held signs high in the air saying “Obama Commander in Thief”, “This Change Sucks”, and “Stop spending money we don’t have”
Senior Monmouth College student, Seth Cocquit organized the rally. “The purpose of this event is to spread awareness to students and to the community that there are alternatives to the current leadership in Washington D.C.,” Cocquit stated. Another Monmouth College student, Stephanie Arrowsmith, said “This event is for the people of the community to discuss feelings against big government and their distribution of our money.” Arrowsmith agrees that something must be done, “Politicians are getting raises when there are people in our country and other countries who are starving.”
Several community members, including Professor Dick Johnston, Joyce Fox, David Peterson, and Larry Mason spoke at the gathering. Warren County resident Joyce Fox boldly stated, “I am not insured and I don’t want Obama care.” Gina O’Sullivan, of Monmouth, Illinois said she is tired of the way the government is being run. “I hope enough people wake up and realize the government isn’t ours anymore. If we don’t fight, we will lose completely.”
A single protestor carrying signs protesting against the Tea Party movement circulated through the crowd and condemned not only the movement, but Fox News, and the Tea Party’s racist roots in a boisterous voice. A security guard quietly asked him to leave. He did so, but not without first raising his voice on several other topics.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
BACK TO THE ROUTINE AT SCHOOL BOARD
CAUTION RULES AT LATEST MEETING
by Maureen Soso
Times are tough and luxury items were nowhere to be found on Tuesday night’s Monmouth-Rosedale school board agenda. While some of the items subject to approval were routine, like the approval of new school personnel, other topics came under fire. One hot-button issue discussed and disapproved was the changing of the names of local schools to encourage unity among the community. A move that would have required new funding. “We shouldn’t spend any money until we get our financial legs under us,” said David Clark. While several other board members believed it would bring a positive shift to the Monmouth culture, the majority ruled it would be unnecessary and bring about expenses that the district cannot afford.
While most of the meeting was filled with questions about budget, the school board seemed to be moving in a very cautious but correct direction for this upcoming school year. One major hole in their agenda came from the Governor Quinn’s Proposal of the Illinois 2010-2011 budget. Since there is a chance that the Illinois legislature could act on a six month budget, there could be a significant change in the school’s budget come January. Therefore, the 1% sales-tax increase approval was also set aside until further information was brought to the board.
Another school issue being voted on was the upcoming 2010-2011 school calendar, and board members approached the topic with severe caution. Several suggestions were made in regards to correlating breaks among school districts as well as different levels, but members were disagreeing on who to shape the break toward: students, parents, or faculty. While members took precaution as to not anger any of the groups, a motion was made to forward the decision until surveys were sent out to parents asking them their opinion.
The meeting adjourned after over two hours, with a lot of vital information for the upcoming year still not set in stone.
by Maureen Soso
Times are tough and luxury items were nowhere to be found on Tuesday night’s Monmouth-Rosedale school board agenda. While some of the items subject to approval were routine, like the approval of new school personnel, other topics came under fire. One hot-button issue discussed and disapproved was the changing of the names of local schools to encourage unity among the community. A move that would have required new funding. “We shouldn’t spend any money until we get our financial legs under us,” said David Clark. While several other board members believed it would bring a positive shift to the Monmouth culture, the majority ruled it would be unnecessary and bring about expenses that the district cannot afford.
While most of the meeting was filled with questions about budget, the school board seemed to be moving in a very cautious but correct direction for this upcoming school year. One major hole in their agenda came from the Governor Quinn’s Proposal of the Illinois 2010-2011 budget. Since there is a chance that the Illinois legislature could act on a six month budget, there could be a significant change in the school’s budget come January. Therefore, the 1% sales-tax increase approval was also set aside until further information was brought to the board.
Another school issue being voted on was the upcoming 2010-2011 school calendar, and board members approached the topic with severe caution. Several suggestions were made in regards to correlating breaks among school districts as well as different levels, but members were disagreeing on who to shape the break toward: students, parents, or faculty. While members took precaution as to not anger any of the groups, a motion was made to forward the decision until surveys were sent out to parents asking them their opinion.
The meeting adjourned after over two hours, with a lot of vital information for the upcoming year still not set in stone.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
34 VOICES
Highway 34 Delays Spur Student Action
by Andy Drea
U.S. Highway 34 between Monmouth and Burlington, Iowa is unique for many reasons. It happens to be the only stretch of Highway 34 in Illinois that is two lane. At one point, it also runs alongside West Central High School, so it is traveled by high school students every day. With a large amount of traffic, especially from inexperienced teenage drivers, and only two lanes, it should be no surprise that another reason for it’s uniqueness is the volume of accidents or “close-shaves” the road sees on a daily basis.
“Car wrecks happen almost daily on that road,” said Monmouth College freshman Lauren Gerst, who attended West Central High School. “It’s really bad.” Because of these issues, the Illinois Department of Transportation has committed itself to improving the road. However, problems with consruction have pushed parts of the project back.“I’m not surprised,” said Gerst, who has been interested in the highway’s issues since May 2007 when she was sitting in her Spanish class and saw a head-on collision between a semi-trailer truck and a Chevy Suburban right in front of her school. “It was an ‘enough’s-enough’ kind of thing,” Gerst said. Over the summer after the accident, she and a few other people discussed organizing an extracurricular group at school. When they returned for the fall, they organized the group: 34 Voices.
In the later two years of her high school career, Gerst gave speeches in Burlington about the road. She and a few other students lobbied in Springfield to Senators and Representatives for money for the road, which found it’s way in to last year’s capital bill. The group even discussed the matter with Congressman Jim Oberstar (D-MN). Now, though Gerst and many of the group’s founding members have graduated and the group has been on hold as of late.
“They haven’t been active recently,” said West Central Superintendent Ralph Grimm. “There’s no reason to be active.” The hold up in the road’s construction, according to Grimm, is the lack of the money allocated for the project from the State of Illinois, which was a part of 2009’s Capital Bill. The money would be generated by selling capital bonds. “Every delay that occurs in selling those bonds and making that money available delays construction and continues to put students and staff at risk,” said Grimm. “It’s simply a matter of funding.”
But once progress picks up again, Grimm believes the students will “stand ready to mobilize again.” Already in the group’s short history at the high school, they have organized letter writing campaigns and compiled and delivered petitions.
“That’s the next step we’re kind of aiming toward,” said Gerst. “I worked on Highway 34. I lived on Highway 34. I went to school on Highway 34. I couldn’t just avoid it. They can’t ignore us forever.”Until the project moves forward, the school district still worries about the volume of vehicles and the speed at which the travel as they pass the school. “We have a signific ant number of trucks that go by there every day,” said Grimm. “We’ve been extremely lucky. An accident can happen at any time.”
by Andy Drea
U.S. Highway 34 between Monmouth and Burlington, Iowa is unique for many reasons. It happens to be the only stretch of Highway 34 in Illinois that is two lane. At one point, it also runs alongside West Central High School, so it is traveled by high school students every day. With a large amount of traffic, especially from inexperienced teenage drivers, and only two lanes, it should be no surprise that another reason for it’s uniqueness is the volume of accidents or “close-shaves” the road sees on a daily basis.
“Car wrecks happen almost daily on that road,” said Monmouth College freshman Lauren Gerst, who attended West Central High School. “It’s really bad.” Because of these issues, the Illinois Department of Transportation has committed itself to improving the road. However, problems with consruction have pushed parts of the project back.“I’m not surprised,” said Gerst, who has been interested in the highway’s issues since May 2007 when she was sitting in her Spanish class and saw a head-on collision between a semi-trailer truck and a Chevy Suburban right in front of her school. “It was an ‘enough’s-enough’ kind of thing,” Gerst said. Over the summer after the accident, she and a few other people discussed organizing an extracurricular group at school. When they returned for the fall, they organized the group: 34 Voices.
In the later two years of her high school career, Gerst gave speeches in Burlington about the road. She and a few other students lobbied in Springfield to Senators and Representatives for money for the road, which found it’s way in to last year’s capital bill. The group even discussed the matter with Congressman Jim Oberstar (D-MN). Now, though Gerst and many of the group’s founding members have graduated and the group has been on hold as of late.
“They haven’t been active recently,” said West Central Superintendent Ralph Grimm. “There’s no reason to be active.” The hold up in the road’s construction, according to Grimm, is the lack of the money allocated for the project from the State of Illinois, which was a part of 2009’s Capital Bill. The money would be generated by selling capital bonds. “Every delay that occurs in selling those bonds and making that money available delays construction and continues to put students and staff at risk,” said Grimm. “It’s simply a matter of funding.”
But once progress picks up again, Grimm believes the students will “stand ready to mobilize again.” Already in the group’s short history at the high school, they have organized letter writing campaigns and compiled and delivered petitions.
“That’s the next step we’re kind of aiming toward,” said Gerst. “I worked on Highway 34. I lived on Highway 34. I went to school on Highway 34. I couldn’t just avoid it. They can’t ignore us forever.”Until the project moves forward, the school district still worries about the volume of vehicles and the speed at which the travel as they pass the school. “We have a signific ant number of trucks that go by there every day,” said Grimm. “We’ve been extremely lucky. An accident can happen at any time.”
Op-Ed Page
Childhood Obesity
An Editorial by Brittney Parker
The city of Monmouth is failing to collect and provide critical information to its residents about childhood obesity, despite increasing awareness and concern about the problem
Several national magazines have published cover stories on the problem recently, and First Lady Michelle Obama has made childhood obesity a personal crusade. But even with this raised awareness, it’s virtually impossible to find statistics about obesity in Monmouth and Warren County. There are no government or medical offices that can offer statistics on how serious the problem is here.
Schools in the county are doing their part by requiring students to regularly attend gym classes and outdoor recess. But prevention can only succeed if the problem is studied and classified. So far, no one appears to be doing that.
An Editorial by Brittney Parker
The city of Monmouth is failing to collect and provide critical information to its residents about childhood obesity, despite increasing awareness and concern about the problem
Several national magazines have published cover stories on the problem recently, and First Lady Michelle Obama has made childhood obesity a personal crusade. But even with this raised awareness, it’s virtually impossible to find statistics about obesity in Monmouth and Warren County. There are no government or medical offices that can offer statistics on how serious the problem is here.
Schools in the county are doing their part by requiring students to regularly attend gym classes and outdoor recess. But prevention can only succeed if the problem is studied and classified. So far, no one appears to be doing that.
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