Student Voice Since 1929 Quincy University Volume 85, Issue 5 Changes coming to Residence Life QU SECURITY Keg Races may be tapped out MEGAN DUNCAN News Editor -page 6 Wednesday, April 2, 2014 Quincy University officials are currently in a standoff with student participants over an event known as the Keg Races. For at least a decade, many Quincy University students have teamed up to kick off the intense season of final exam studies, usually in late April, in a race to see who can be the first to finish a keg of beer. School officials Remembering Dr. John Schleppenbach say the event has led to complaints of disturbance with area neighbors, and the nature of the event has them concerned about student safety. “In April 2012, there were three intoxicated students transported to Blessing Hospital, and in April 2013, I am aware of 1 transport, “ Sam Lathrop, Director of Security at Quincy University, said. “The whole idea of Keg Races is to rapidly consume large quantities of alcohol, and there is nothing that you can make safe about that.” Students do not deny what happens at Keg Races, which usually includes about 100 students and creates an outdoor party atmosphere, but they do deny Quincy University’s authority over it. Some students say the school has no jurisdiction over the event, which typically takes place off-campus and See KEG RACES, Page 2 MR. GQ COMPETITION -pages 4-5 Student Senate puts on Town Hall meeting Corey Smith, winner of the Mr. GQ contest, does a song and dance rouƟne during the talent porƟon of the contest held in the main dining room on March 22. (Falcon Photo by Randy Swope) -page 3 Changes coming to athletic website HOUSING SELECTION Where are you living next year? TERESA GORRELL STAFF WRITER -page 12 It’s that time of year again. Campus housing selection has begun. It can sometimes be a confusing and stressful ordeal for students. Laryssa Lavender, Director of Residence Life & Community Standards, says it doesn’t have to be. In the second and third weeks of April, the fall 2014 housing applications will open online for students to apply. A student must apply to be put into the selection process. On April 21, all students who have applied will be assigned a unique selection day and time, which they will receive via email. Selection slots will begin the next evening April 22. Students are ranked for selection time in order: first by total number of accumulated credit hours, then by GPA and finally by the number of semesters a student has lived on campus. Students ranked higher on the list are given a sooner selection time and are more likely to obtain their housing preference. If a group of students want to room together in a multi-person living area, the area is selected by a designated group leader. Building, floor and room number can all be selected from the available spaces on campus. The available living spaces are displayed in real-time. Students will receive an automatic confirmation email as soon as their selection See LOTTERY, Page 2 2 • The Falcon News QU WEBSITE Time to make changes to online appeal CHRISTOPHER CHAPPELLE STAFF WRITER Besides Quincy University being the private college institute of Gem City and the 40,000 citizens, there is not much to this small big city. The advertisement for an ideal college in Quincy is for every other college besides Quincy University. After a certain amount of time here at Quincy University, the average student is familiar with at least a third of the student population and knows of almost every event being held. Eventually the campus life becomes rather cliché and very predictable to the point of low at- tendance for such events that requires the participation of the student body. There is no right way to point the finger and blame, but there has to be something that initiates the attitudes of these unloving, unsupportive young adults. As a young adult, the choice to go down the upper-level education route is not always favored. It is often encouraged by the older voices like the parents or older relatives. The average high school student’s college of choice is the one that is the coolest, looks fun and has hot men or women. That is not the case here at Quincy University, which explains why there is a different breed of young adults here. In today’s generation, technology plays a huge role. In an attempt to find fun, entertainment or simply anything appealing, the Internet is usually the main source. In regards to choosing a college, the school’s website is what usually does the primary speaking for the institution. If the site is boring, unattractive and not very socially appealing, it will not win over the young adult’s decision. The parents may love the generic look of education over fun, but what does that do for the student? When parents choose the college their child attends, the child ends up sad, miserable and often inactive, not really interested in participating with anything school-related. Due to our website being so formal, education driven and so positive, the average student that attends does not come with a mentality of “I’m about to have fun.” Even though the parents may love the decision of the prestigious Quincy University, the students are the one that matters. Therefore, if QU’s website was more student-friendly, interactive and well-designed to attract the modern day young mind’s interest, a lot more enthusiasm will arrive on campus. LOTTERY: Lavender recommends ‘a plan A, a plan B and a plan C’ FROM PAGE 1 is processed. Ten total houses are on campus for student housing. Three of those are set aside as for the Greek life organizations. The remaining seven houses are open to all students in the selection process. Four housing selection info sessions will be held the in order to help students learn about the selection process and make it as stress-free as possible. The info sessions will be held April 1-2 at 12:15 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. in the Private Dining Room of the cafeteria. Lavender says any student should apply for housing who is considering oncampus living. “Students should have a plan A, plan B, and plan C prior to going into the selection process,” she said. She recommends that students who want to live together to meet in person to complete their selection. If that is not possible, they should have a pre-made, clearly-defined plan that is agreed upon by the group members. Another tip is that students should use a computer to apply and select their housing choices, as mobile devices may not be compatible with the site. Also, if one internet browser program is causing difficulties, try switching to another one. Finally, Lavender encourages students to “really think about…who you want to live with [to] create a harmonious environment or the environment that you are looking for, aligning on study habits or aligning on sleep schedules or, if not, having conversations about that beforehand.” KEG RACES: Lathrop says police will have ‘pro-arrest’ attitude FROM PAGE 1 across the street from Quincy University at 2006 Chestnut in a privately owned non-school affiliated house known as the “pink house.” “It has nothing to do with the school,” said a member of the Keg Races committee who asked for his identity not to be revealed. “The event has been informal and hosted by the Pink House for the last 20 years or so.” Lathrop says the Quincy University Student Handbook contains language that gives the school authority of the event and upholds students to all “federal, state, and local laws as well as the University Community Standards, rules, and regulations.” A section in the handbook further states, “This principle extends to conduct off-campus that is brought to the attention of the University.” “If a student was arrested on a drug violation in Quincy, off campus, way off campus, and the university finds out, the student is held in violation of university standards and suffers university sanctions because of it,” Lathrop explains. “This, and a few other rare circumstances, has taken place while I have been the director (of security).” Lathrop says with neighbor complaints, as well reported incidents of underage drinking, the students are not only violating the handbook but the law as well. These circumstances have led Lathrop to take the stance that the Keg Races have crossed the finish line. “I stand squarely opposed to them and have taken a position that the keg races will not be repeated this year,” Lathrop says. “I also have the pledge of the Quincy Police Department that they will provide a dedicated force to officers solely to squash the keg race. They will have a pro-arrest attitude.” The Keg Races committee member says he is not aware of anyone in the area who was upset about last year’s event, and that the members of the “pink house” consult with neighbors before the event takes place. He has helped organize the two most recent races. “I know all of the neighbors, and we go to each of them during the week before Keg Races and tell them the situation,” he says. “No one has ever complained. They say to have fun and be safe.” As far as underage drinking in the event, Lathrop says that he addressed the students with his concern early last year and provided them with arm bands to make sure that underage students who were in atten- Students line up in last 2013 keg race event in the backyard of 2006 Chestnut. (Falcon Photo by Randy Swope) dance were not allowed to drink. He is unsure if the students used them. “Wristbands were handed out to each team captain, and they were responsible for checking IDs,” the Keg Races committee member said. “Underage drinking happens in college, but I was not aware of any on the property.” The unidentified student also said he was unaware of any transports to Blessing Hospital from Keg Races, but he said that such an incident would not have been the result of the event but of someone who failed to drink responsibly. Jackie Pohlman, a 21-year old senior, who planned to participate as a team leader in this year’s event, also agrees that the event poses no more danger to students than a typical college party. She says it is not too different from any of the parties that take place on a regular basis, except that this is off-campus. “As long as people don’t drink and drive,” Pohlman said. “Obviously they could do that any weekend, even tonight.” She says that if the event were to be held, underage students would be excluded from it, and that all students are aware that they could be held accountable not only by the University but by the law for supplying alcohol to a minor. Pohlman says that the penalties they could face would not be worth letting underage drinking slide. Pohlman, however, disputes Lathrup’s stance against the event and believes the university is not under any authority to stop the Keg Races from happening. “Legally, they can’t stop us,” she said. “It is not spon- News Editors Reviews Editor Advisor Sara Belmont belmosa@quincy.edu TC Pierceall pierctc@quincy.edu David Adam dadam@whig.com Design Editor The Falcon staff is always lookingfor more writer and photographers. For more information on The Falcon or to submit something, email qufalcon@gmail.com. Megan Duncan duncame@quincy.edu Staff sored by QU, and if all people are of-age and are in someone’s backyard, then there is simply no danger in it.” Director of Student Affairs Tiffany Nolan says that student safety is what it all boils down to, and she is not convinced that the Keg Races can be made safe. “Making it an of-age party only is a step in the right direction,” she said. “However, any kind of event racing to consume alcohol is unsafe and lends itself to unsafe consequences.” Nolan encourages students to seek safer options. The school has planned an alternative on April 24, the same night the races are expected to take place this year. She said the event features Big Money Bingo, Minute to Win It and a movie. Lathrop also encourages students to find an alternative solution to the Keg Races, and he welcomes students to come talk to him about the stance he has taken against the event. “I offer myself up as a resource to students if they want to work with us directly and have questions,” he said. “I think we can say with confidence that what we are trying to here is prevent trouble and injury.” The unidentified student says there are no current plans in place to continue with the event this year. While students firmly believe that the university does not have a right to stop them, they are not willing to risk possible consequences or legal actions. “Whatever the Quincy Police Department says is what we will adhere to," he said. Sports Editor Andy Martinez martian@quincy.edu Ian Timmermann Timmia@quincy.edu Page Designers Jackie Pohlman, Pasha Yates pohlmja@quincy.edu, yatespa@quincy.edu The Falcon • 3 News UNIVERSITY LEADERS SPEAK Ten students attend Town Hall meeting TERESA GORRELL STAFF WRITER QU Student Senate hosted a Town Hall meeting in the cafeteria on March 19. Guests for the event were Fr. John Doctor, Sam Lathrop, Laryssa Lavender, Chris Blakeman, Robert Gervasi and Tiffany Nolan. The Senate had prepared for a large crowd in the main dining room, setting up a speaker system and a filming platform for QUTV. However, with only 10 students in attendance, the event evolved into a more casual discussion group, with students and university leader gathered around in a circle of chairs for some down-to-earth talk about campus concerns. In the weeks before the Town Hall, the Student Senate had collected questions from students in question boxes set up in various locations around campus. After an opening prayer by Fr. John and introductions of university leaders and students alike, the speakers addressed a number of these questions from the student body. Director of Security Sam Lathrop, in response to an inquiry about the workability of the new lock system in Francis Hall, reported that he was pleased with the transition. He commented that next fall, all classrooms in Francis will be equipped with locks that can be opened by professors’ ID cards. A student in the crowd asked whether Francis would be made card accessible for extended hours during finals week to allow students to study later in the night. Lathrop made a note to do that. He also stated that the first floor of Friars Hall, where the security office is located, would now be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Laryssa Lavender, Director of Residence Life and Community Standards, discussed the development of living and learning communities, which will be starting next year. These communities will house students of the same subject area together. They are meant to “give students a holistic experience, combing class with living,” Lavender said. Chris Baker, Director of Dining Services, explained some of the changes that Chartwells has recently implemented at the Hawks Hangout and the cafeteria. He reported that North Campus will host a new dining area offering hot and cold drinks and a limited Quincy University president Robert Gervasi spoke at a Town Hall meeƟng on March 19 in the cafeteria and said his dream would be to expand the student center and cafeteria. (Photo by Randy Swope) selection of prepared foods next fall. President Robert Gervasi shared some of the university’s hopes for future expansion. He revealed his “emerging dream ... to dramatically expand the student center and cafe.” This would involve interior renovations and a major addition to the east side of the building. Gervasi, however, stressed that his idea is now only a dream and may not come to fruition for some time. Tiffany Nolan, Vice President of Student Affairs, announced a new QU app coming to students’ smartphones this fall. The app will allow for increased digital communication with students, including digital signage to promote student organization events. Mitchell Vaughn, Vice President of Student Senate, said after the meeting that “Student Senate is the voice of the students.” Vaughn hopes that the Town Hall meetings become a way to “involve students more.” Student Senate plans to hold Town Halls at least a couple times per semester. Vaughn encourages students to utilize these meetings as a way to communicate with their university leaders about topics that are important to them. STUDENT ARTIST ‘AJ’ to paint mural before graduation ALLISON MALONE STAFF WRITER Senior Angelo Joseph, best known as AJ at Quincy University, will be painting a wall mural at North Campus this spring. AJ moved to Quincy two years ago to pursue his art career. His paintings consist of abstract composition. AJ wants to dedicate the mural to John Schleppenbach, a QU professor who recently died. He said Schleppenbach helped encourage him to come to Quincy University and pursue his dream here. AJ explained what he wants his art to represent. “You can perceive my art in infinite amount of ways,” he said. “I want the mural to inspire and uplifts the students of QU, stuff that people can look at and get inspired and get into.” AJ will be graduating in May, and he has been accepted to grad school in the fall of this year at the University of Missouri. He also will be having an art show at Gallery Solaro on April 25. He will be selling some of his paintings before he leaves. He also will be donating some of the money he makes to a couple of charities. AJ’s wall paintings (murals) can be found at Eighth and Jefferson and at Fifth and College. To see more of AJ’s artwork, go to his website at www.aj47.net or email him at aj47creations@gmail. com. Angelo Joseph “AJ” stands by his mural at North Campus. (Falcon photo by Allison Malone) 4 • The Falcon feature TRIBUTE Remembering Dr. John Schleppenbach MEGAN DUNCAN STAFF WRITER Dr. John Michael Schleppenbach, Professor of Communications, passed away in his home on the morning of February 24, 2014. Affectionately known at Quincy University as “Dr. John,” his career and service to students spanned 42 years as he taught and shaped generations of Communication students. Schleppenbach’s career at Quincy University began in 1962 as an assistant professor of English, and where he became instrumental in the structure and implementation of the Communication department. He supplied students with both the education and the opportunity to better their lives through his commitment to their success. With a constant eye on the future of each student he taught, he regularly encouraged them to seek job opportunities and presented them with real world opportunities. He established Quincy University’s internship program, which provides students with real world experience working with local businesses. Schleppenbach did not limit his instruction to the classroom or his door, and his candy jar was always open to students for advice or simply for conversation. He was a great mentor and friend to many. Schleppenbach was born on Jan. 22, 1943 in Muskegon, Mich. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Comparative Literature from University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire, his master’s degree in Medieval Literature, and his Ph.D. in Linguistics and Folklore from Florida State University in Tallahassee. A lover of folklore, language and baseball, Schleppenbach was known for his travel anecdotes and ever-famous Chicago Cub jokes. His love of students stemmed from that of his family. He worked daily alongside his wife, Dr. Barbara (Aschemann) Schleppenbach, Associate Professor of Communication and chair of the Division of Fine Arts and Communication. The Schleppenbachs were married in 1978 in the Quincy University Chapel and renewed their vows in 2013. She survives. He served as a loving father to his children Jay (Ian Millington) Schleppenbach, Meg (David) Bates, and David (Wendi) Schleppenbach. Schleppenbach was 71 years old. Photo from QU archives A life like Dr. John Schleppenbach’s is best told through the stories of others, because he helped write so many of them. Photo provided by QU archives The casket of Dr. John Schleppenbach was illuminated under the stained glass in the chapel at Francis Hall on February 27 as many gathered at his visitation to say goodbye. Trailing behind him is a legacy of memories that alums, students and faculty have generously shared. The Falcon • 5 feature TRIBUTE “I took Dr. John’s Communication and Human Behavior class my first semester of freshman year in 2003. Significantly outnumbered by upperclassmen, I didn’t really know what I was doing nor what I had gotten myself into. As the weeks progressed, however, I realized that Dr. John had a distinct way of allowing his students to develop and experience excellence in their own way. He was proud of each of his students and was unmatched in helping us to develop projects, theories and opportunities relating to our own experiences and interests. For me personally, he was a great educator, colleague, and friend.” – Ben Braun ’07, Coordinator of University & Alumni Communications Photo courtesy of QU archive Photo courtesy of E. BeƩs Finnigan “Anyone that has had Professor John Schleppenbach knows that he loves to talk about internships. It is because of Dr. John that I may possibly receive a paid internship at a local television station this semester. I am very appreciative of Dr. John and hope to see more students take advantage of the opportunities he presented. They will certainly look good on our résumés.” – Patrick Kuhle, ‘16 Photo provided by QU archives “It pains me deeply to know that I won’t be able to walk into his office and see him sitting there at his desk, drinking a Diet Coke and offering Tootsie Rolls to those who pass by. His corny jokes, his love for the Cubs and his knowledge of just about everything are just a few things I will miss. If I ever had a question about anything, Dr. John always held the answer. His unwavering encouragement, words of advice, and positive thoughts on his students are irreplaceable.” – Sara Belmont, ‘15 Photo courtesy of Jennifer Wingerter “He made a non-traditional student’s dream possible, and he went the extra mile for me. He challenged me to go after what I wanted. I will never forget that. Dr. John! You will be missed.” - Jennifer Wingerter, ’13 “One of my favorite memories was from earlier this year, I showed Dr. John a video of a German guy trying to figure out an American idiom, the German guy was talking about how one of his colleagues said that a woman at a party was a party pooper, and the German guy couldn’t make sense of that. Dr. John giggled so hard that every time I hear ‘party pooper,’ I will think of him and laugh and probably cry.” - Annastasia Gabbert, ‘15 Photo provided by QU archives “Several years ago there was a dog-walking event on campus to raise funds for an animal shelter, and my dog recently had spinal stroke and was paralyzed and we nursed her back to health. We were able to bring her on campus, and John had his dog and we were able to walk them together. It was such a special moment, and especially since he loved dogs so much too and had followed her recovery as well.” – Travis Yates, Assistant Professor of Communication The Falcon • 5 feature TRIBUTE “I took Dr. John’s Communication and Human Behavior class my first semester of freshman year in 2003. Significantly outnumbered by upperclassmen, I didn’t really know what I was doing nor what I had gotten myself into. As the weeks progressed, however, I realized that Dr. John had a distinct way of allowing his students to develop and experience excellence in their own way. He was proud of each of his students and was unmatched in helping us to develop projects, theories and opportunities relating to our own experiences and interests. For me personally, he was a great educator, colleague, and friend.” – Ben Braun ’07, Coordinator of University & Alumni Communications Photo courtesy of QU archive Photo courtesy of E. BeƩs Finnigan “Anyone that has had Professor John Schleppenbach knows that he loves to talk about internships. It is because of Dr. John that I may possibly receive a paid internship at a local television station this semester. I am very appreciative of Dr. John and hope to see more students take advantage of the opportunities he presented. They will certainly look good on our résumés.” – Patrick Kuhle, ‘16 Photo provided by QU archives “It pains me deeply to know that I won’t be able to walk into his office and see him sitting there at his desk, drinking a Diet Coke and offering Tootsie Rolls to those who pass by. His corny jokes, his love for the Cubs and his knowledge of just about everything are just a few things I will miss. If I ever had a question about anything, Dr. John always held the answer. His unwavering encouragement, words of advice, and positive thoughts on his students are irreplaceable.” – Sara Belmont, ‘15 Photo courtesy of Jennifer Wingerter “He made a non-traditional student’s dream possible, and he went the extra mile for me. He challenged me to go after what I wanted. I will never forget that. Dr. John! You will be missed.” - Jennifer Wingerter, ’13 “One of my favorite memories was from earlier this year, I showed Dr. John a video of a German guy trying to figure out an American idiom, the German guy was talking about how one of his colleagues said that a woman at a party was a party pooper, and the German guy couldn’t make sense of that. Dr. John giggled so hard that every time I hear ‘party pooper,’ I will think of him and laugh and probably cry.” - Annastasia Gabbert, ‘15 Photo provided by QU archives “Several years ago there was a dog-walking event on campus to raise funds for an animal shelter, and my dog recently had spinal stroke and was paralyzed and we nursed her back to health. We were able to bring her on campus, and John had his dog and we were able to walk them together. It was such a special moment, and especially since he loved dogs so much too and had followed her recovery as well.” – Travis Yates, Assistant Professor of Communication 6 • The Falcon NEWS RESIDENCE LIFE New structure eliminates RD positions JACKIE POHLMAN STAFF WRITER The structure of the Quincy University Residence Life staff has changed. In recent years, the staff consisted of 25 Resident Assistants (RAs), 5 Resident Directors (RDs) and 1 Graduate Assistant (GA). For the 2014-2015 academic school year, the number of Resident Assistants will remain the same, but the Resident Director position has been eliminated from the staff, and two Graduate Assistant positions have been added for a total of 3. A number of reasons led to the changes in the format of the Residence Life staff. Nationally, universities are not using undergraduate students as residence hall directors. Meeting students’ needs also were another reason, because it plays a big role in student retention. “With the need to have more staff members, more time available to the students, that was part of what we were looking for in changing the structure,” said Laryssa Lavender, Director of Residence Life. “We want to make sure that our students are getting what they need.” Traditionally, undergraduate students have less free time than graduate students. The Graduate Assistants will be utilized to hold more office hours for students and will serve on campus committees. There will be an assistant for freshmen students (Garner and Helein), an assistant for middle classmen students (Friars, Padua, and Willer), and an assistant for upperclassmen (Student Living Center, Woods Apartments, Houses). Each residence staff will also have a Senior Residence Assistant who will fulfill additional programmatic or administrative responsibilities and work with the Graduate Assistants. These positions are unique, because students can tailor additional responsibilities to their current skills. “Each of those individuals will have a set of responsibilities that will be outlined in their job descriptions, but there is some flexibility with those positions if the individual has experience in something, they can add on other opportunities to use those skills,” Lavender explained. The members of the Residence Life staff will un- dergo a transitioning period from the current structure of the positions to the new structure without the Resident Directors. With the elimination of positions, some students worry that the workload will be increased for the current Resident Assistant positions. “As a current RA, my worries lie with the RAs who will have to take on additional responsibilities on top of their current responsibilities,” Ariel Baldwin, a current senior Resident Assistant, said. “I also worry that the transitional period may negatively affect the community atmosphere at QU.” Lavendar, however, has a more positive outlook on the situation. “One of the positives on the Graduate Assistant positions is that they will be spending more time in the buildings so that they are more available to the students… The goal was to have more staff face time where the students are,” said Lavender. “I’m hoping that this change will affect students positively and that they will appreciate seeing a constant staff member who holds office hours in their building.” Par cipants show off colored powder to be used in the second annual Strides for Shannon 5K Color/Run Walk on April 5. 5K COLOR RUN/WALK Shannon’s strides nothing short of miracle PASHA YATES STAFF WRITER The “Strides for Shannon” 5K Color Run/Walk fundraiser on April 5 will benefit first-year QU student Shannon Peters, who was struck by an oncoming car in January 2013. After the accident, doctors were unsure if she would survive and predicted she would not walk or talk again. However, after being in a coma for nearly 6 months, Peters continued to fight for her life. It hasn’t been an easy road to recovery, and the cost of hospital stays, medical treatments and rehabilitation has amounted to extensive medical bills that continue to grow. Shortly after the incident, “Strides for Shannon” was created by the Quincy University PanHellenic Council, which oversees Greek Life on campus. Peters is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority. The purpose of “Strides for Shannon” is to help raise funds for her recovery and spread awareness for street safety. “Strides” raised $5,571.45 for the “Friends of Shannon Peters Fund” in 2013. Nearly a year later, Peters is growing strong. “Shannon is fairly self-sufficient. She walks on her own, can feed herself, and can talk a little bit. She can be a handful at times, but the key is just to be patient,” Ashley Cahill, a sorority sister and friend, said. Cahill says that Peters cannot hold a complex conversation, but can greet people and answer and/or questions. “Last time I was there, we played a memory game and her dad asked if she knew who I was,” said Cahill. “It took her a little bit, but she finally got my name.” Cahill is constantly amazed at Peters’ recovery. “The doctors said all these things that she would never do again. Now look – she’s doing them,” she said. “What a beautiful miracle, if you ask me.” Cahill says that time will only tell how much more she will improve. “Either way, she is a fighter,” Cahill said. To join the fight, join her friends and family at the 2nd annual powder run and fun walk at noon April 5. Check-in on the day of registration and the start of the race will take place in Parking Lot B of Main Campus. Pre-registration ends is $25 for QU students, and $30 for the public. Registration is $35 for both QU students and the public on April 5. To register, email strides4shannon@gmail. com or contact Ashley Reese directly at 937-313-1031. Fill out the registration form, along with the money and put it in campus box 643 or give it to Ashley Reese directly. Checks can be made out to “QU Panhellenic Association.” There will be free face paint, and other pre-race activities. There will also be a brief ceremony after the race. Snacks and refreshments will be provided, along with prizes for top finishers. All participants will be entered into a post-race raffle. All those participating in the race should note that while color powder is non-toxic, washable and biodegradable, coordinators can’t guarantee that it will not stain clothing. For further questions or comments, go to www.strides4shannon.webs.com or contact Ashley Reese at strides4shannon@gmail.com. The Falcon • 7 QU Culture Grid Carey McDermott Do you think winter is over? How do you celebrate Easter? Will you be participating in Hawk Wild and/or Keg Races? Do you look forward to Hawk Wild? How does the water in your dorm taste? Funny? What do you think of the shuttle service? What did you do for St. Patrick’s Day? What is the best April Fool’s joke you’ve ever seen? No. I spend time with my family. We have dinner and hide Easter eggs for the younger kids. I might. Yeah. It is hot. It’s OK, I guess. I just went to class. Blue dye on a toothbrush to make the teeth turn blue. Ja’mil Jones Jeanine Riley Yes, I think winter is over. The weather is starting to get better and the temperature is heating up. Yes. I normally go to Church. With my family. Yes, I will be at Hawk Wild and Keg Races if they have them. I’m not exactly sure what those are, but I would definitely like to participate. Yes. No, not really. I don’t know what Hawk Wild is but if it is fun then yes, I would look forward to it. I look forward to parties. Coming from the LA water, out here tastes way better. I don’t drink water from the faucet, but the water from the fountains tastes normal. Josh Robinson No. I really don’t celebrate Easter. The shuttle service is good for the most part. 5:05 When my best friend called me and told me she was pregnant. I think it’s convenient. Especially for those who don’t have a way to get to and from North Campus. I didn’t really do much of anything. Moved someone’s car to a different parking spot to make them think the car was stolen. Good, it doesn’t taste funny. The shuttles are slow. They need to come at every time we get out of class. Sometimes they don’t. Nothing. I remember it was freezing cold, and I told my boyfriend that I was outside so he got up in the middle of the night and went to the door only to find out I was not outside. 8 • The Falcon REVIEWS YOUTUBE ‘Jacksfilms’ makes bad grammar funny T.C. PIERCEALL REVIEWS EDITOR At some point in your day, you may find yourself on the massive video streaming website YouTube watching a video about something. It could be comedy, a documentary, inspirational messages, or even instructional videos, but do you ever pay attention to the channel providing that video? These channels are mostly maintained and operated by individual filmmakers and entrepreneurs in the name of gaining enough views and subscribers to become a Youtube “partner”. This means that, for every set number of views a channels videos receive or subscribers the channel earns, that individual will be paid a certain percentage by You Tube to continue making videos. One such “partner” channel is a comedy channel called Jacksfilms. The channel’s account holder, Jack Douglass, has earned quite a following on YouTube for his flagship series, “Your Grammar Sucks.” The formula behind the now seventy-two-video weekly series is quite simple. Fans and subscribers to Jacksfilms send screenshots to Douglass of people using hilariously terrible grammar and spelling on various social media websites. Douglass selects his favorite screen shots, records himself reading them out loud, edits the recordings together, and releases the end product as another installment of the YGS series. Sometimes, Douglass even makes these videos alongside other prominent You Tubers. The idea sounds mind-numbingly simple, but seeing the end product is a surprisingly hilarious experience. Douglass was the first person to have success on You Tube with this very subscriber-involving idea. Douglass also maintains one other Jacksfilms series Jack Douglass on an episode of Your Grammar Sucks called “PMS.” This stands for “Parody, Music video, Sketch.” Yet another weekly series, Douglass switches between the three types of videos to provide fans and subscribers with a variety of comedic entertainment. Some of his more famous “PMS” videos include the P90X parody “BRO90X” which features one of his characters Chad Broseph Huntington, his “Dubstep Solves Everything” series of music videos, and one of his older sketches, “No Homo”. In all of his “PMS” videos, Douglass displays a clear thirst for originality and even a slight hint of disdain for those You Tubers who make the same kinds of videos as handfuls of other channels. His witty and occasionally dry sense of humor may be an acquired taste for some viewers who are more used to an immediate laugh, but, after watching a handful of videos, a viewer could find themselves hooked or even subscribing to Jacksfilms. There are thousands of channels on YouTube that promise laughs and jokes; why not watch one that has a spark of originality and grammar-obsessed waggishness? ANIMALS AS LEADERS ‘The Joy of Motion’ lives up to its name T.C. PIERCEALL REVIEWS EDITOR Over the past half-decade, Washington D.C. progressive metal band Animals As Leaders has worked their way to the top of the food chain and become a powerful contender on the metal scene. Music theory and jazz guitar virtuoso Tosin Abasi, along with supporting guitarist Javier Reyes and drummer Navene Koperweis, have managed to defy the bounds of the metal genre and earn the praise of many of the genre’s most informative publications and artists such as Steve Vai and MetalSucks Magazine. Animals As Leaders is known for their signature use of several time signatures in the same song as well as Abasi’s masterfully placed solos, chord progressions, and spine-breaking heaviness of sound. AAL does not disappoint with its newest record, The Joy of Motion, released on March 25. Abasi’s ability to pioneer new ways in which to mix jazz elements with progressive metal and electronic flourishes and work with Reyes and Koperweis to make the final result audibly pleasing has definitely not diminished since 2010’s Weightless. Though Abasi is the primary instrumentalist of AAL, Reyes is to be highly commended for his polyrhythmic grooves and ability to select chords that fit in with Abasi’s melodies like perfect little puzzle pieces of sweet and shiny metal goodness. Koperweis has also been hailed as one of the best drummers in all of heavy metal for his ability to play beats in multiple time signatures simultaneously and for his unparalleled creativity behind a drum kit. Abasi and Reyes also manage to bend minds and smash skulls due to the fact that each plays eight-string electric guitars. Animals As Leaders, from leŌ: Navene Koperweis, Tosin Abasi, Javier Reyes Moving on with The Joy of Motion, the album lives up to its name. From track one, “Ka$cade”, the name of the game for AAL is non-stop energy and flowing rhythms. With “Physical Education,” the fifth song, the bowel-busting bass grooves from Reyes and Koperweis’s tight and almost impossible-to-follow beats make the listener’s mind feel as though it has just completed some physical education class from Hell. Abasi does not show off the truest possible extent of his power until the following track, “Tooth and Claw.”. The heavy polyrhythmic grooves come trundling under Abasi’s finger melting solos and quick chord changes like a herd of angry rhinoceros stampeding through your grandmother’s house. “Tooth and Claw” is the stand-out single of this album. At track nine, however, AAL throws the listener a curve ball with “Para Mexer,” an almost completely unplugged (with acoustic guitars) track that still manages to retain the same fast-paced energy that makes The Joy of Motion so joyful. The album does not stop the constant flow of energy until the very end, tying the listener to the back of its Lamborghini and taking him or her for an enjoyable ride over the countryside. For any fan of heavy metal, complex music, or just plain ol’ high intensity jams, Animals As Leaders’ The Joy of Motion is a must-own. The Falcon • 9 FEATURES FUTURE CAREER PLANNING The importance of a backup plan KATINA JOHNSON STAFF WRITER If you are a college athlete and your career comes to an end as a senior, do you know what your next step will be? Chris Babbitt plans to graduate in May with a degree in Sports Management. His plans are to play basketball overseas. He has a great opportunity because of his hard work and dedication to the game. In a game against Missouri S&T, Babbitt proved that to everyone by scoring a career high of 31 points. He scored more than 1,000 points in his career. However, if the plan to play overseas does not work out, Babbitt’s backup plan is to depend on his degree and become an athletic director. Justin Dickens also will graduate in May with a degree in Communications and is already preparing for life after graduation. Although Dickens is a great football player who set records for most receptions, most yards receiving and most touchdowns for the Hawks, he is looking to jump right into the work field after graduation. Dickens plans to work for a sports franchise, so he is already sending out resumes and applying for jobs. In the future he plans to attend graduate school but he first wants to get his foot in the door of the work force. He has done a lot of volunteer work on campus involving the communication field, such as writing for The Falcon and also helping the publication workshop in creating a sports magazine. Dickens has also had internships in his field of study. Even if you are not graduating this May or next semester, should you still be planning ahead? Kristen Liesen from the career services department strongly believes you should. She encourages every student to start building your resume now and keep their options open. Senior athletes shouldn’t give up on their sport, but they Kristen Liesen, leŌ, with the career services department visits with KaƟna Johnson. also should utilize the services available on campus. Seniors should research the companies they want to work to make sure it is the right job for them. Don’t get discouraged. If you are seeking help with your resume, internships or future careers, meet with the staff of the career services department. They are available to help, even after graduation. CAMPUS MINISTRY Mission trip to New Orleans ‘unforgettable’ MARC EVERHART STAFF WRITER The 2014 Quincy University mission trip to New Orleans has to be one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Undergoing the trip in 2013 really opened my eyes to a city full of its own rich culture, distinctively unique to the city. From the service work we did to the food we ate, there never was a dull moment in New Orleans. I was able to make some real connections with some genuine people on the trip, so naturally, I was stoked to go on this year’s trip as well. Just as I expected, New Orleans did not disappoint this year. The sisters that I met on last year’s trip were just as joyful and cheerful as they were last year. You could tell that they were sincerely happy that we came to help them. Perhaps the most notable of them all were the 90-year-old twin sisters. The aura that surrounded them was so positive and inviting. They sure could talk your head off. We spent Wednesday Mass worshipping with the sisters at their Motherhouse. The environment was new to me, and I soaked in all that it had to offer. After the Ash Wednesday service, we got to work. You name it, Quincy University did it. Our students scraped paint, dug out trees and even pulled weeds. Aside from the work that was done at the Motherhouse, we spread out across New Orleans with our mission work. Some of us spent time at Incarnate Word Head Start, showing time and affection to children that could use all the extra love they can get. My days were spent working for Greenlight New Orleans, a grassroots program designed to replace all the light bulbs in New Orleans with energy efficient alternatives. I met some sincere down-to-earth people who invited us into their homes with no hesitation. Being born and raised in the South, it felt good to be around that kind of hospitality again. I vividly remember the conversations I had with these people, because they were so open and honest with me. There was one man who only really knew my name and my school, and he felt comfortable enough to open up to me about his ex-wife and his daughter’s graduation. In addition to the work that we did, the trip was full of fun times as well. One of my favorite moments was the meal that we had at Loretta’s restaurant. The food was amazing, and the story of inspiration that she shared with the group was remarkable as well. When Hurricane Katrina came in 2007, thousands of New Orleans residents were left without food or water for several days. Loretta opened her restaurant and prepared food free of charge for the residents of New Orleans. One of the main lessons that I gained from Loretta is that God always will make a way for you if you put Him first. I’m at a point in my life where I needed to hear that, and her message was a godsend. This particular year’s trip was during Mardi Gras, so the city of New Orleans put on a full display of culture and heritage for us. The parade that stuck out to me the most was the Zulu parade. The historic connotation behind the parade is fascinating, and the fact that it is still alive and strong today is a testament to the people of New Orleans. At night, Bourbon Street was filled with people from different types of ethnicities, religions, and walks of life enjoying the festivities together. The most memorable part of Bourbon Street for me was running into an old friend from high school. I wish I could give you the feeling that I was lucky enough to experience on this trip. It felt good to be able to make a difference in the lives of so many people and having fun in the process of doing it. I’m glad that Quincy University gave me the opportunity to live such a humbling experience. Looking back, the things that I saw in New Orleans will be with me for a lifetime. If the chance presents itself, I strongly suggest looking into QU Campus Ministry Service Learning opportunities. It’s a great way to humble you, experience new things, and make a lasting impact on people. HAWK WILD Theme of annual spring event is ‘Bringing Back the 90s’ JACOB SCHUMAKER STAFF WRITER The annual “spring fling” week at Quincy University known as, Hawk Wild, will be held Monday, April 21 through Saturday, April 26. Student teams consisting of 8 to 10 people will fight for the “QU Cup.” It is the last big event SPB (Student Programming Board) puts on before spring finals, and each Hawk Wild event is a chance to win team points. The theme of this year’s Hawk Wild is “Bringin’ back the 90’s.” On Monday, April 21, a meeting will be held at 4 p.m. in the Hawks Nest for team captains, and a meeting will be held at 9 p.m. for Hawk Wild volunteers also will take place in the Hawks Nest. SPB has events planned around campus for the rest of the week, such as canned food and boxed food drives, and it will end the week with an Air Band competition in the Hawks Nest. Crystal Sutter, Director of Campus and Community Events, says Hawk Wild is a chance for students to get together and show school spirit. “Hawk Wild brings students together to have lots of fun and allows them to have a friendly competition with their friends on other teams,” she said. 10 • The Falcon Sports/News STUDENT GOVERNMENT Student Senate to undergo changes, elect officers MEGAN DUNCAN NEWS EDITOR Student Senate will be adding five new executive board positions before the end of the current year. This change reflects efforts to build up a low rate of student interest and participation in the Senate in the last several years. “We are changing the Senate structure in an effort to rebrand the Senate, and we feel that we can serve the student body in this new format,” says Ian Timmer- man, Senior Class President. “We also hope that this will strengthen student participation.” Representatives, currently chosen by where they reside, will soon be based on what campus clubs and organizations they belong to. This system is much like the one the university had in place up until last year when it was restructured in hopes to get more students involved after a decline over the last several years. The current system, however, is believed to have worsened student participation. Tiffany Nolan, Director of Student Affairs, says focusing on student activities will fill more seats at meetings and spark student interest. “Students connect with each other and care about these groups that they are part of,” said Nolan. “They don’t have this same kind of connection with our current structure.” Timmermann says that Student Senate will not only be changing their structure but are making other changes as well. Student Senate will now be called the Government Association. SOFTBALL Lady Hawks getting back to winning ways BRENDAN BITTNER SPORTS INFORMATION Junior Murphi Armstrong unwinds a pitch in a recent game for the Lady Hawks. QU has won four games in a row a er losing seven straight. (Quincy University Sports Informa on Office). The Quincy University softball team completed a perfect weekend with a GLVC doubleheader sweep over Missouri S&T on Sunday (March 30) afternoon at the Mart Heinen Complex. The Lady Hawks rallied for a run in their final at-bat in Game 1 to beat the Miners, 3-2, before winning Game 2 in a 10-3 rout. Quincy (16-18, 8-10 GLVC) improved to 7-3 at home this season. The Lady Hawks pounded four home runs on the day and lead the GLVC with 35 on the season. QU got a strong pitching performance from right-hander Murphi Armstrong in the opener. The junior scattered four hits and allowed just two runs in a complete game. She needed just 71 pitches (47 strikes) to earn her 10th win of the season. The Lady Hawks gave her a 1-0 lead in the first inning. Mackenzie Fox drew a one-out walk and went to second on a single by junior Jessica Grimes. Both runners moved up on a wild pitch and junior Jill Suellentrop drove in Fox on an RBI single. Dana Lawson’s RBI double off Armstrong in the second knotted the game at 1-1. Emma Topps lifted the first pitch of the fourth inning into the wind and it carried over the wall for her seventh homer of the season to give QU a 2-1 edge. Kyra Slemp led off the Miners’ sixth inning with a home run to tie the game at 2-2, but the QU took the lead for good in the bottom of the inning. Topps reached on a fielder’s choice, stole second and went to third on an overthrow by Missouri S&T catcher Lori Badalamenti. Topps came around to score on Suellentrop’s second RBI single of the game. Tiffany Harbison set the tone for the Lady Hawks in Game 2 as she retired the first nine batters she faced, letting the Lady Hawks get their offense going for seven runs in the first three innings. Quincy scored five times in the second – all with two outs. Rachel Scrum started the twoout rally with a solo home run to right-center. It was her third homer of the year. Alanna Viken drove in Lindsey Greene, who drew a walk, with a double. Fox’s two-run single scored Viken and Rebecca Powers, who followed Greene’s walk with a single. Grimes’ RBI single capped the scoring for the Lady Hawks. In the third, Kelsey Ley pounded the first pitch from Rader over the wall in straightaway center for a two-run homer that pushed the lead to 7-0. The Miners (5-20, 2-12 GLVC) bounced back for three runs on three hits in the fourth, including a two-run homer by Slemp. The Lady Hawks broke the game open with three runs in the sixth inning. Topps tripled off the top of the wall in right and scored on a sac fly by Taylor Dralle. Ley followed with her second home run of the game and her sixth of the season. Olivia Shepard then had a two-out double and eventually scored on a wild pitch. Harbison (3-5) earned her second victory of the weekend, allowing just one hit outside the fourth inning. She walked two and struck out a career-best 12 batters. MEN’S VOLLEYBALL Gamache named MIVA defensive Player of Week Jack Gamache (center), looks on in an cipa on before a match this season. The sophomore was recently named the Midwestern Volleyball Intercollegiate Associa on (MIVA) Player of the Week. Gamache is the first Hawk to win the award since Tanner Wright won the award in 2010. (Falcon photo by Chris Chappelle) Quincy University sophomore opposite side hitter Jack Gamache (St. Charles, Mo./Francis Howell Central) was named the Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association Defensive Player of the Week, the league office announced Tuesday (March 18) afternoon. Gamache is Quincy’s first conference weekly award winner since Tanner Wright was named the MIVA Defensive Player of the Week March 15, 2010. Gamache was a steady presence last week for the Hawks, who are riding a four-game winning streak that includes a 3-0 performance at the McKendree Crossover last weekend. Gamache averaged 2.58 digs per set last week as he helped the Hawks hold their opponents to a collective .130 hitting percentage. Gamache also totaled six blocks (two solo) on the week. The sophomore had at least five digs in each match and finished the week with 15 kills (.636) in a 3-1 win over King on Saturday (March 15). Gamache also had just three reception errors in the four matches. The St. Charles, Mo. native ranks fifth in the MIVA in total digs (141). He is the only non-libero in the top five. The Falcon • 11 Sports WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Lady Hawks season ends in regional semis JORDAN WILSON STAFF WRITER A historic season comes to an end. The Lady Hawks fell 78-58 in the regional semifinal to eventual regional champion Drury. The Lady Hawks finished their season 23-7 overall, 14-4 in Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) play. The Panthers were too much for the Hawks as they trailed the whole game. The Hawks shot 35 percent from the field, and struggled to contain Drury’s 6’7 center Amber Dvorak, who finished with 19 points and 12 rebounds. Drury avenged an 82-79 loss to the Lady Hawks on January 30 at Pepsi Arena, where QU upset then seventh-ranked Panthers on a late three-pointer by senior center Hannah Weedman. QU had a 12-game winning streak which started Jan. 9 with a win versus McKendree at Pepsi Arena. The streak was snapped on Feb. 20 by the University of Missouri-St. Louis where the Lady Hawks saw a onepoint second half lead slip to the Tritons at Pepsi Arena. That loss sparked a three-game losing streak for the Lady Hawks heading into the post season. The Lady Hawks corrected their mistakes and won their first game of the GLVC tournament defeating the University of Southern Indiana, but next game they ran into the redhot Truman State Bulldogs and fell 68-54. The Bulldogs would go onto win the GLVC Tournament. The Lady Hawks’ late-season slide did not hurt their NCAA tournament hopes, as they still received an at-large bid to the Women’s Division II National Tournament. They earned a No. 5-seed in the Midwest Regional hosted by Drury in Springfield, Mo. The Lady Hawks faced Great Lakes Intercollegiate Conference opponent Northern Michigan. The Wildcats raced out to a 16-point second half lead that looked to have doomed QU. Lucy Cramsey had other intentions. The redshirt-senior had one of her best collegiate performances, finishing with 23 points and 17 rebounds, as the Lady Hawks stormed back to force overtime. In overtime the Lady Hawks carried the momentum from the second half to defeat Northern Michigan 65-58. Garber named IBCA Coach of the Year NICHOLAS KEDZUCH SPORTS INFORMATION The Illinois Basketball Coaches Association has selected Quincy University women’s basketball head coach Jeni Garber as an IBCA “Coach of the Year” for the 2013-14 season. Garber and the rest of the nominees will be honored at the 42nd annual Hall of Fame Banquet to be held on Saturday, April 26th on the campus of Illinois State University. Jeni Garber is 59-28 in three seasons at the helm for the Lady Hawks. Garber helped guide QU to an NCAA Tournament appearance with a record of 23-7 this season. Coach Garber has led the Lady Hawks to two NCAA Tournament berths. QU has made the NCAA Tournament nine of the past 12 seasons dating back to the 2002-03 team coached by Larry Just. Jeni Garber has coached three All-Region players, six AllGLVC selections, and six GLVC All-Defensive honorees in her first three seasons. Most recently, the 2013-14 Lady Hawks’ trio of seniors donned post season honors. Lucy Cramsey was named to the Daktronics AllMidwest Region Second Team, All-GLVC First Team, and the GLVC All-Defensive team this season. Hannah Weedman earned All-GLVC Second Team honors. Felisha Loggins was named to the GLVC All-Defensive team this season. The Lady Hawks ended their season in the NCAA Midwest Regional Tournament Semifinals against the eventual Regional Champion Drury University Panthers. The Lady Hawks won their first game in the regional tournament against Northern Michigan University with a 16-point comeback in the second half as QU took over momentum and won in overtime, 65-58. TENNIS Men, women each drop matches Lance Luhring looks to return a ball in a recent match. (QU Sports Informa on Office). The Quincy University women’s tennis team lost a close match against Coe College on Sunday afternoon, 5-4. Coe started the day with two wins out of the three doubles matches. QU rallied to split the singles matches, but escaped from Quincy with a one-point win. The Lady Hawks (12-4) picked up a win in doubles play in the number three match. Anna Morrissey and Morgan McGinnis secured an, 8-5, win as QU’s only doubles win. The Kohawks took the first and second doubles matches by scores of, 8-6 and 8-2, respectively. Coe got a win to start off singles play in the number one slot as Tai Lucero won, 6-1 6-0, for the Kohawks. Coe was able to win the third and fourth singles matches as well to secure the match win. The Lady Hawks split singles play with the Kohawks with Anna Morrissey winning the fifth singles match, 6-3 6-1. Morgan McGinnis secured the sixth singles match for QU with a, 6-2 6-1, win. Elizabeth Kuenzi battled for a win in the second singles match winning set one, 6-3. Set two was tight, but the freshman finished off the win, 7-6. The Quincy University men’s tennis team fell to the University of Missouri-St. Louis in Great Lakes Valley Conference play on Saturday (March 29th). QU picked up a win in the number one singles and doubles match, but UMSL took the rest to win, 7-2. Ian Hinkamper and Lane Luhring started off the day with a doubles win over Niles Mueggenburg and Harry Heyburn. The pair took the number one doubles match, 8-3. This gave QU (8-8, 0-2 GLVC) the early lead. The lead was short lived as the Tritons (9-3, 2-0 GLVC) took the second and third doubles matches by a score of, 8-4 and 8-0, respectively. Hinkamper completed the solo sweep on the day winning his number one singles match over Nils Mueggenburg, 7-6 and 7-6. The Hawks number one won both his doubles and singles match on the day. Lane Luhring took the first set of his number two singles match against Harry Heyburn, 6-2. Heyburn came back to take the next set, 7-5, and took set three, 6-4, for the win. UMSL won the next four singles matches to come away with the 7-2 victory. Upcoming Home Games Baseball Men’s Tennis April 5&6 Hawks vs. Missouri S&T (DH) 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m. April 11 Hawks vs. Rockhurst 2 p.m. April 8 Hawks vs. McKendree (DH) 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. April 12 Hawks vs. Illinois College 3 p.m. Softball Women’s Tennis April 12 Lady Hawks vs. Bellarmine (DH) 12 p.m., 2 p.m. April 9 Lady Hawks vs. Monmouth 4 p.m. April 13 Lady Hawks vs. S. Indiana (DH) 12 p.m., 2 p.m. April 11 Lady Hawks vs. Rockhurst 2 p.m. 12 • The Falcon Sports QU SPORTS Athletic website will get new look, feel for fans PATRICK KUHLE SPORTS WRITER The Quincy University athletic website is getting a facelift, the results of which should be visible by early-July. The decision to redesign the site was announced by QU’s Sports Information department at the beginning of the spring semester. Brendan Bittner, QU’s sports information director, says that the goal of the site renovations is to “upgrade the look and feel of the website across the board.” QU’s Sports Information department hopes the renovations will put the site at the cutting edge of GLVC and NCAA Division II websites while remaining consistent with university standards. The website was last redesigned in the summer of 2010 by SIDEARM Sports, the “leading provider of college athletic websites.” This was the first time that the site was designed and hosted by an off-campus provider. Four years later, the site’s colors, logos, and typeface are out of date, the site’s information and records have not been kept up with, and the site’s social media links are hardly visible. Bittner and QU’s Sports Information department hope to redesign the site to serve as “one landing spot” for people to obtain news about QU athletics. “The site must connect with many types of stakeholders within the university, including current student-athletes, prospective student-athletes, alumni, parents, media, community members, sponsors and fans,” Bittner said. The new site will keep its audience up-to-date with easy-to-access and readily available information on each team. Users should be able to find the information they are looking for with “as few clicks as possible,” Bittner said. These users can also expect a site fully integrated with social media, including YouTube, Facebook and Twitter. “The athletics website serves as one of the main avenues into our athletic department. We hope to properly reflect the accomplishments and stories of our student-athletes, and we hope that a refreshed look will allow us to do that,” Bittner said. The launch date for QU’s new athletic website is set for July 1, 2014. The website is hawks.quincy.edu. TRACK Hibbert sparks track team, shares bond with brother PASHA YATES STAFF WRITER The Quincy University track team is off to a great start in its fourth season with 18 team members. Darren Bishop coaches the track team, and his dedication to the program can be seen in his runners. Senior Eli Hibbert has been running since age 7 and is now finishing up his 11th year in his running career. Having run cross-country at QU his freshman year, Hibbert wanted more. With a history of running track in junior high and high school, his dedication to the sport led him to ask his coach about starting a track team at QU. He started out as an individual runner for the first year, and then the team began to grow. The track team is still Senior Eli Hibbert Sophomore Rory Hibbert considered a “club team” and is not registered in the NCAA for track, just in crosscountry. With three indoor meets behind them, the Hawks participate in running and are trying to find someone to do the long jump. Without proper training equipment or place to practice for it, Hibbert states that they are hoping for more support from the athletic office. If recruiters were sent to different high schools, he believes the Track program could grow. Eli isn’t the only Hibbert who has hit the ground running. His little brother, Rory, also runs for the Hawks. “I love having my brother as a teammate,” Eli said. “We’ve been running together our whole lives, and we motivate each other to never give up. “ After running his whole life, Eli Hibbert has created bonds with his teammates that he will never forget. He is looking forward to finishing out the rest of the track season, and just because he will be done running at the collegiate level, he says he always will be running. BASEBALL Trio of baseball players see superstition pay off ANDRES MARTINEZ SPORTS EDITOR Cole Judy and the Hawks had a forgettable start to their baseball season, so he and another pair of players, Zach Knese and Matt Marek, decided it was a time for a change. The trio decided to do something rather unique. “We started when we were down south earlier this spring and we were struggling a bit, and a couple of us decided we needed to change something up,” Judy said. “So we started wearing no under shirts under our uniforms. We call it ‘air-conditioning.’ ” The change worked. The Hawks won six out of their next seven games, including taking three out of four from St. Joseph’s in Rensselaer, Ind. “We started playing the way that we want to play,” Judy said. “We just let it ride and kept doing what we were doing.” For Judy, the change was part of their mojo. “It’s more of a superstition,” Judy said. “(Like) how they keep their baseball equipment and don’t let people touch their glove or their bat or things like that. Athletes kind of have a funk about them they don’t like anybody else’s mojo getting on their stuff.” Air-conditioning is no secret among the rest of the squad. “Everyone’s pretty well aware,” Judy said. “They’re like ‘Hey, you’re air-conditioning today, right?’ and I’m like ‘Absolutely.’ Nobody will let us forget.” It has become a superstition that has been hard not to do. When the temperatures dipped into the 30’s, Judy, Knese and Marek refused to give up on a new tradition. “That’s what we had going for us. I’m fine being cold for five hours in a day,” Judy said. “Sometimes you got to bite the bullet.” Unfortunately for the trio and the Hawks, the winning ways stopped. That has given Judy thoughts about changing up their routine. “After this weekend at Drury (back to back doubleheader losses), we might have something else up our sleeves that we might change up,” Judy said. “We haven’t even thought about it (the new routine). It’ll be a game day decision.” Still there was no denying the Hawks shook off their rusty start. “I can’t fully credit it to air-conditioning,” Judy said. “But when something’s working, you stick with it.” Hawks trounced in doubleheader at Drury, fall to 7-14 NICHOLAS KEDZUCH SPORTS INFORMATION The Quincy University baseball team fell behind early in game one Sunday before sparking a comeback against Drury University. However, the QU rally fell short as DU took game one, 10-6. The Panthers stayed on the attack in game two to down the Hawks, 12-4, for a four-game series sweep. Drury had 28 hits on Sunday afternoon. Alexis Pena (0-2) started game one for the Hawks (7-14, 4-7 GLVC). The Panthers (14-7, 8-2 GLVC) loaded the bases with three straight walks to start the game. After an RBI single, The Hawks got the first out on a sacrifice fly that scored the second run of the inning. Four more runs scored before QU got a ground out for the second out of the inning. Drury knocked a two RBI triple to left field to end the scoring for the inning. The Panthers took an, 8-0, lead after one inning, but Pena settled in from there going four and two-third innings allowing two more runs. The redshirt sophomore transfer scattered eight hits allowing 10 runs with seven earned. Pena had three strikeouts and four walks, which all came in the first inning. Cole Judy grounded out to the second baseman in the third inning to score Larry Sartin after a throwing error by the first baseman for the Hawks’ first run. Drake Sykes made a pinch hit appearance in the sixth inning and singled to score Larry Sartin. Sykes knocked in another two runs on a single in the seventh inning. Cole Judy grounded out to the shortstop for an RBI before Sykes’ single. Kory Wisdom followed Sykes with an RBI double in the seventh to score Sykes. All of the Hawks’ scoring in the seventh was with two outs. The Panthers stopped the Hawks short of a comeback by finally getting the final out in the seventh to come away with the victory. Trevor Richards (4-1) threw game one for the Panthers. Richards threw six innings allowing two runs with one earned on four hits and eight strikeouts. Sykes continued his hot hitting in game two going two for four with two runs scored. Matthew Buck went two for four with two RBI for the Hawks. Gavin Meyer knocked in two runs with a double in the ninth inning, but the Panthers took game two as well. Oswald Silvestre (0-3) threw game two for the Hawks pitching five innings allowing 11 hits, seven earned runs, four walks, and recording three strikeouts. Austin Faulconer (3-0) secured the win for Drury throwing the first six innings allowing two hits, one earned run, two walks, and recording four strikeouts. The Panthers scored five runs in the third inning and four in the eighth inning.
© Copyright 2024