January 9, 2017 Volume 100, Issue 16 Celebrating over 100 years of student journalism at Western Michigan University

WMU’s H.E.R.O.E.S. expanding into local community pg. 5 Emotional loss for Broncos still bolsters positive, gracious attitudes from players pg. 7 ROWING, ROWING, GONE WMU football head coach P.J. Fleck departs for Minnesota overnight

Former WMU head coach P.J. Fleck after the MAC Championship. Photo courtesy of Gwen De Young Brendan Buffa become the former, as he has signing in Minnesota. of the most sought after jobs, versity, as it is owned by the Editor-in-Chief accepted a job to become the In a press conference and I can tell you that the WMU Board of Trustees, or KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- I bet new head coach of the Univer- held on Jan. 6 around noon, phone is already off the hook,” will it go along with Fleck to you thought the losses from sity of Minnesota. WMU athletic director Kathy Beauregard said. Minneapolis? 2016 were over. Nope. The official news comes Beauregard sounded optimis- Along with Fleck’s depar- Just six days into the new after endless hours of specu- tic about the ability to fill the ture after a wildly successful year and four days after the lation via social media, where sudden, although somewhat 13-1 season, the question of Cotton Bowl Classic, Western contradicting reports from expected, vacancy. whether or not his famous Michigan University football Minnesota and Kalamazoo “This is a great job. No doubt “Row the Boat” mantra will Cont. on pg. 13 head coach P.J. Fleck has now media were rampant of Fleck’s about it. We are probably one stay in the hands of the uni-

Find us on social media! www.westernherald.com @WesternHerald @WesternHeraldAE @WMU_Sports westernheraldwmu 2 Western Herald

RSO Spotlight: Student Media Group

Contact the Western Herald 1517 Faunce Student Services Building 1903 W. Michigan Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49008 Phone: (269) 387-2110

Editor-in-Chief Brendan Buffa (269) 387-2097 [email protected]

Asst. Director of Student Media Glen Dillon (269) 387-2110 [email protected]

Advertising Manager [email protected]

Business Manager [email protected]

News Editor Sarah Culton (269) 387-2101 [email protected]

Asst. News Editor Jalen VanHoeven

A&E Editor Sarah DeHaan All three entities of WMU’s Student Media Group, including the Western Herald, 89.1 WIDR and YBOT. Photo courtesy of Student Media Group. [email protected] Elissa Kedziorek voices of the student body are of Radio Evolution, giving on bringing students into Opinions Editor alive and well with Western audiences an experience they an educational environment Asst. A&E Editor With Western Michigan Univer- Michigan University’s Student can’t get on other commercial revolving around professional Summer Dreyer sity being host to over 400 reg- Media Group. radio stations. journalistic skills, all while istered student organizations, Comprised of the West- Young Broadcasters of providing an opportunity to Sports Editor it can be quite overwhelming ern Herald, 89.1 WIDR and Tomorrow, or YBOT, is the get yourself involved in net- Trey Sobolewski to the average student when it Young Broadcaster of Tomor- video production agency of working in the world of media,” [email protected] comes to determining which row, WMU’s student media is the Student Media Group who Brendan Buffa, editor in chief group to become a part of. expansive in their coverage of believe in inspiring and empow- of the Western Herald, said. Asst. Sports Editor The Western Herald, in local news relating to the cam- ering students to practice the All three entities of the Stu- Jackson Vidaurri collaboration with WMU’s Stu- pus, students and the surround- skills necessary for the profes- dent Media Group can be found dent Media Group comprised ing Kalamazoo community. sional broadcasting world. in the basement of the Faunce of 89.1 WIDR FM and Young “Each outlet has its own “We put an emphasis on Student Services Building. Opinions Editor Broadcasters of Tomorrow, will approach to the media generating newscasts, short To get involved with the Elissa Kedziorek be hosting a weekly RSO Spot- industry,” Gianna Capadona, featurettes, and we’re also Western Herald, you can email [email protected] light to inform the student body general manager of 89.1 WIDR, launching into a webseries. [email protected] of the different RSOs featured said. “We try and encompass We believe in fast turnaround, along with finding them on Art Director on campus. the attitude and feeling of the yet maintaining high quality,” social media on Twitter and Carla Zorrilla You can find an accompany- overall campus and in the last Charles Clark, production Facebook at @WesternHerald. ing video to this article pro- few years, we have tried harder manager of YBOT, said. To get involved with 89.1 duced by YBOT by visiting this reaching out to our campus The Western Herald, the WIDR, you can email widr. article online at westernherald. and getting involved along oldest of the three entities [email protected] along with com and hear the featured RSO with becoming more relevant since 1916, is the on-campus finding them on social media finding them on social media on in constant rotation on-air by and noticeable.” student-run newspaper, which on Twitter and Facebook at @ Twitter and Youtube at @YBOT- tuning into 89.1 WIDR FM. WIDR, standing for West- focuses on delivering news rel- WIDRfm. Connects and on Facebook. Ranging from the rising ern Inter-Dormitory Radio, evant to its four sections: news, To get involved with Young success of the football team to has been around for 65 years at sports, arts & entertainment Broadcaster of Tomorrow, you the greatness provided in the WMU. Since then, WIDR has and opinions. can email ybotatwesternmich- academic culture at WMU, the been founded on the principle “The Western Herald focuses [email protected] along with News 3

What they’re up to: Western Student Association Estate of late alumni Mark Murvay Hailey Pecic donates $2.5 million to WMU Staff Reporter After a semester of near-con- Madison Liebler the deans and department stant community service, the Staff Reporter heads of WMU have some Western Student Association Western Michigan University difficult decisions to make. It has no plans of slowing down, has even more to be thankful could be months before con- according to President Thye for after this holiday season as crete decisions are made. Fischman. six departments will benefit Executive Director of “We want to show we care from a recent 2.5 million University Relations, Cheryl for Kalamazoo constantly,” dollar donation. Roland, also made a comment Fischman said. The generous sum was given on the recent bequest. The WSA spent the last by the Mark A. Murvay estate “Since the gift was just semester serving students after his passing in 2015. announced, I believe the and Kalamazoo in efforts to An alumni and notable different units are still in the provide students a voice, fight business leader in the commu- process of deciding exactly bigotry and strengthen com- nity, Murvay graduated from how to use the gift,” Roland munity relations, Fischman WMU in 1961 and remained said. “The deans of the col- said. active with WMU since his leges and department chairs Their biggest mission of fall graduation. He worked for are spearheading that process, semester was increasing voter many years with the university but the holiday break has registration. With a large help serving on the boards of the delayed their discussions.” from Political Affairs chair Alumni Association and the Those who will make the Chiante Lymon, the WSA WMU foundation. decisions regarding the dona- registered and re-registered A proud Bronco through tions aren’t taking the job around 4,200 people to vote. and through, Murvay has lightly. They want to be sure “The university was really thoughtfully provided for six to use the gift to “maximum helpful. Administrative departments to receive mon- advantage,” Roland said. officers were very in support etary gifts. The President’s Though the suspense will of this and donated a lot of Unrestricted Fund, College of continue as the deans and money to get people out there Western Student Association cabinet. Photo courtesy of WSA Arts and Sciences, Haworth department heads discuss to register,” Fischman said. make sure this happens every tion conference. College of Business, the options, WMU students can “We don’t care if you voted A year,” Fischman said. “It’s a big deal. We’ve been College of Health and Human be sure that this generous gift or B, your voice just needs to Senior and Vice President Tay- up against schools like Stan- Services, and the departments will be used to benefit WMU be heard.” lor Hall said one of WSA’s stron- ford, UCLA and Michigan,” of Communication, Psy- and ensure that Murvay’s Fischman’s hope is these gest commitments is informing Fischman said. chology and Chemistry will presence at WMU lasts for efforts will set the path for the student body about what’s This will be the first time benefit from the donation. many years to come. institutionalizing the student important on campus. WMU has hosted the confer- Satish Deshpande, dean registration process in the It is a goal of the WSA to ence, and first time in 15 years of the Haworth College of future, making it easier and teach WMU students how to the conference will be held at Business, expressed that the more understandable. become supportive allies to fight a Michigan school. donation will be beneficial to Another goal of the WSA racism and bigotry, Hall said. “It brings together all the her department. was to strengthen school pride In order to help achieve that states to discuss issues facing “Firstly, this was a very over the fall semester. They goal, the organization wrote students around the nation generous gift. It was also very saw a need to get students a statement in solidarity with that are bigger than us. Like timely. We don’t plan to spend to the recent MAC football the Black Lives Matter move- textbook cost. It’s outrageous it all at once of course, for tournament in Detroit and ment last September. and it’s everywhere, not just now we’ll use the interest. All collaborated with the Campus “We just want it to be know here on a small scale,” Fisch- of the money will be used to Activities Board, managing to the WSA and Western is a good man said. “We come together, improve the college for the get about 150 students to the environment where we don’t and we’re going to work on benefits of our students and game with three funded busses. support bigotry,” Hall said. these issues.” faculty,” Deshpande said. “That may not seem like a Fischman says it all comes In the meantime, the The donation will undoubt- lot, but it sets the precedent down to lack of awareness. upcoming elections for the edly bring many opportunities for years to come, to show we “Some students just don’t WSA are this march and to Haworth students including as a student body, are support- understand what racism is or anyone can run for office. Hall scholarships and travel options, ive,” Fischman said. that it’s everywhere,” Fisch- encourages students to attend Deshpande said. The WSA doesn’t just stick man said. their community service Though the gift was generously to aiding the community In their support to the events and get a look at what received, many departments housed inside of University movement, they’ve hosted the WSA stands for. haven’t dedicated the money to walls. Last semester, as part of platforms where students “You don’t have to be a specific projects just yet. “Hashtag Lunchbag,” over 200 can talk about the issues member unless you want to “Mr. Murvay passed away bags of donated food were put surrounding it. After an vote,” Hall said. “There is unexpectedly. While the together for homeless resi- increased tension following something for everybody.” money is designated to dents of Kalamazoo. the election, they hosted an different departments, there Additionally, the WSA volun- “Election Hangover” where are still many decisions to be teered to do street clean up on students could express their made regarding the specif- West Michigan Avenue after the election induced worries. ics,” a representative from the chaos that is Fall Welcome. Looking into the future, School of communication said. WMU crest at the roundabout near “We’re working with differ- the WSA will be hosting the With such a large donation, Sangren Hall. Photo courtesy of ent organizations to try and United States Student Associa- Western Herald 4 Western Herald

New year, New dean: Bischof takes over as dean of the Lee Honors College

Hanne Christensen Associate Dean of the Honors Calling attention to the Staff Reporter College, Jane Baas, believe that programs and academic It was the day before Thanks- mental health has long been excellence found within the giving when Gary H. Bischof, stigmatized, despite its preva- honors college is a method of chair of the department of lence among college students. attracting students to WMU family and consumer sci- “We’re seeing mental health that Baas is happy to support. ences, received a very exciting issues particularly with high “Dr. Bischof will be an phone call. He was to become achieving students who have a excellent spokesperson for the the new dean of the Lee tendency to be perfectionists,” Lee Honors College. The more Honors College. Though his Bischof said. “We need to awareness we can bring to the Thanksgiving feast was surely increase awareness and break excellent programs, both in delightful, nothing could have the stigma and encourage the honors college and in the been sweeter than that piece students to reach out.” academic colleges, the more of good news, not even the In her time spent working likely we are to attract an pumpkin pie. with students at WMU, Baas increasingly diverse and tal- Despite the universal has also noticed the troubling ented student body,” Baas said. appeal of holiday rest and trend of mental health issues. Both Bischof and Baas indulgence, Bischof has been “I am not a mental health pro- express excitement for the pooling his time and effort fessional, but I have observed upcoming spring semester this winter break into other that high-achieving students and the opportunity to realize outlets, namely prepping for may be more prone to problems, their shared goals. Though his new role as honors college particularly with anxiety, due 2017 is a blank slate of pos- dean. The motivation that in part to the high standards sibilities, one thing remains drives him to the workplace they set for themselves,” Baas certain; if WMU is a hidden each day stems from a desire said. “Dr. Bischof’s professional gem, then Bischof is the man to serve. experience will be critical in holding the spotlight that will “I see myself overall as a helping us provide students make it shine. servant leader. I have a desire with the tools and information to serve other people, to give they need to address mental people a lift or a compliment, health challenges.” and to support people in chal- Baas further believes that lenging times,” Bischof said. Bischof’s role as Dean will give Gary H. Bischof, new dean of Lee Honors College. Photo courtesy of Bischof, who has a fondness him new agency in combating University Relations for problem solving, said he the negative connotations this sees this role as a new oppor- subject is often attributed. tunity to work with bright “As dean, Dr. Bischof will be young people and a committed in a unique position given his staff. Having previously served professional training to edu- as chair of the department of cate those less knowledgeable family and consumer sciences about mental health. Under- for four-and-a-half years, he standing is key to getting has experience overseeing a individuals on board to make great number of employees. changes that can improve the “Being able to solve prob- campus climate and reduce lems creatively is very satisfy- stigma regarding mental ing and to advocate for people health,” Baas said. and come up with reasonable Hand in hand with this goal, solutions,” Bischof said. “It Bischof also seeks to spread will be a change because the awareness of WMU as a whole. Lee Honors College is one- His experience serving on third of the employees I’m the WMU presidential search used to. It will definitely be committee has made him con- more focused work with more scious of a common sentiment. chance to make a difference.” “I routinely heard WMU has Already, Bischof has estab- a great thing going on, but not lished a set of ideas for the a lot of people know about it,” future in his new position, Bischof said. many of which share a key In order to bring more theme of spreading awareness. awareness to WMU, Bischof The importance of acknowl- hopes to utilize the honors edging mental health issues, college as a vehicle for change. for example. A subject that is “I really see the Lee Honors near and dear to Bischof who College as a beacon that sends has a master’s and doctorate out a signal and shows the degree in marriage and family way. It is a beacon of academic therapy and is a licensed mar- excellence that will shine a riage and family therapist. brighter light so that people Bischof, along with WMU are more aware about it,” Bis- Professor of Dance and previous chof said. News 5

WMU H.E.R.O.E.S. implementing plans to expand into local community Mikhayla Dunaj proposal to focus on con- leaders will propose their Staff Reporter tinuing to expand Gentlemen own ideas for new projects Western Michigan Univer- United, but also to expand the for Gentlemen United 2017. sity’s H.E.R.O.E.S. program WMU H.E.R.O.E.S bystander National experts have stressed is one of 18 in the state to intervention program. the importance of getting receive over $60,000 in fund- “Ultimately the funding we more men involved in sexual ing from Michigan First Lady, have received will go towards violence prevention. With this Sue Snyder’s Campus Sexual expanding H.E.R.O.E.S both program, WMU is focusing Assault Program. at WMU and in the surround- on the “unique” opportunity This recent funding, ing community by aiming to men have to make an impact announced Dec. 2, marks train a larger percentage of on power-based violence, the second time WMU the population and encour- Robertson said. has received funding from age them to step up to make “When it comes to Snyder’s program, which all a difference in reducing comprehensive prevention schools in Michigan are eligi- power-based violence,” Alecia efforts, there tends to be a gap ble to apply for with applica- Smith, assistant director of in reaching student popula- tion materials posted by the health promotion and edu- tions after their first year in Michigan State Police. cation at Sindecuse Health college, especially those who Last year the grant project Center, said. primarily live off campus,” did not involve the WMU In addition to the Robertson said. “We need to H.E.R.O.E.S. program whose H.E.R.O.E.S. program, continually reinforce mes- name was coined in 2012 funding will be put towards sages about sexual assault, and stands as an acronym for H.E.R.O.E.S. Train the alcohol and bystander inter- the steps to being an active Trainer program as well as the vention throughout students’ bystander towards sexual H.E.R.O.E.S for High Schools campus experience.” assault. The initial fund- program. Grant funds will The strategy the WMU ing was received due to the also support two student posi- H.E.R.O.E.S. find most effec- collaboration between Health tions: the graduate assistant tive to address this gap is to Promotion and Education for Gentlemen United and a engage student leaders like and Student Activities and Marketing Assistant for the student athletes, RSO exec- Leadership Programs to Western H.E.R.O.E.S. and utive councils, fraternities, develop a new, innovative Gentlemen United programs. sororities and Resident Assis- program, Gentlemen United, “We plan to launch a train tants as they are often in roles to empower more men to get the trainer program in to lead others and influence involved in violence preven- which WMU staff, faculty the social environment. tion efforts at WMU. and students can complete a “Students can do a lot “Members engage in mean- four-hour seminar to learn to change the culture and ingful conversations including how to facilitate the WMU ensure WMU is a safe and myths of manhood, under- H.E.R.O.E.S 90-minute A member of WMU’s H.E.R.O.E.S. program shows off their meaning. Photo fun place for all,” Robert- standing consent, and navigat- bystander intervention skills courtesy of Sindecuse Health Center. son said. “We encourage all ing social pressures of violence,” training,” Smith said. They will also have the oppor- behavior and bystander inter- Broncos to get involved in Sindecuse Health Center Male The purpose of this tunity to host the 90-minute vention in social settings, and Western H.E.R.O.E.S.” Violence Prevention Coordina- is to extend the reach of H.E.R.O.E.S training for high a branding and recruitment tor Daren Fox said. H.E.R.O.E.S. with trainers school students to be facilitated campaign for the program used The 2015-16 grant funding from a wider variety of depart- by a WMU student or employee. to encourage all students to and Gentlemen United were ments and student organiza- “Students need bystander engage in violence prevention. used to supplement the many tions. Each trainer will become intervention education and The next group of student other programs already exist- responsible for facilitating practice before they reach ing at WMU addressing sex- bystander intervention train- college life,” Smith said. ual assault. These programs ing their unit, group, organiza- Allegan Alternative High include FIRE Place, Theatre tion, team and so on. School and Kalamazoo for Community Health and “The relationship that the Central High School wrote WMU H.E.R.O.E.S, said Cari trainer already has with those letters in support of WMU Robertson, director of health they are training allows the H.E.R.O.E.S’s grant applica- promotion and education at training to be more person- tion. Further discussion of Sindecuse Health Center and alized and impactful,” Smith their involvement will occur WMU H.E.R.O.E.S. leader. said. “The students who in the upcoming semester. “The pilot year went well, decide to become trainers The H.E.R.O.E.S. program and we have now made a few will also be encouraged to go plans to send invitations and changes based on what we into high schools and train further details to other local learned,” Robertson said. “For students in bystander inter- high schools as well. example, we are now offering vention skills.” Funding will support mate- two levels of involvement so that High school administra- rials for the Gentlemen United students who are really busy can tors will have the opportunity program, including student still join Gentlemen United and to attend a train the trainer project implementation. make a significant impact.” program and will be given the Past projects implemented A group of staff, faculty and materials needed to launch by the program include a film students supported the idea bystander intervention pro- project demonstrating students for the 2016-17 WMU grant grams in their own schools. engaging in risk reduction WMU H.E.R.O.E.S. Photo courtesy of Sindecuse Health Center. 6 Western Herald Bronco hockey looks to continue turnaround season as they return from holiday break Gwen De Young Staff Reporter The Western Michigan Univer- sity hockey team had a dismal eight-win season last year and looked to turn things around with the start of the 2016-17 season. With 18 games into the new season, the Broncos have already matched and exceeded their win total from last year. The 10-5-3 Broncos are third in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference standings and ranked No. 14 in the nation. The Broncos picked up big wins early in the season with a sweep of Ferris State Uni- versity, as well as a big 8-2 win against then, No. 20 ranked Bowling Green State University Falcons. The 8-2 victory saw sophomore forward Matheson Iacopelli net a hat trick and tremendous play in net by sophomore goaltender Trevor Gorsuch. After two tough losses to the University of Den- ver, the team would bounce back and split their first series of the season with No. 1 ranked University of Minne- sota-Duluth. Before the winter break the Broncos would also split a series on the road with No. 7 ranked University of Michael Rebry battles for the puck in the first game of the Great Lakes Invitational. Photo courtesy of Gwen De Young. North Dakota. The team would head into man forward Wade Allison While the new faces have the holiday break preparing for and freshman goaltender Ben helped make an impact for the the Great Lakes Invitational Blacker have been instrumental Broncos, it has also been help held at Joe Louis Arena in this season. Allison came into from the core of sophomores Detroit, Mich. The last time this season as a highly touted who have put a spark into the Broncos were invited to the prospect from Myrtle, Man- the team, especially when it GLI, they beat the Michigan itoba who was drafted 82nd comes to scoring. The biggest Tech University Huskies in a overall in the 2016 National spark has come from Iacopelli gritty 1-0 overtime win, giving Hockey League Draft. Eigh- who leads the team with 14 them their second GLI title. teen games into the season goals. The forward is having This year’s tournament would the young freshman has 15 a breakout season after his end just like that one two years points on nine goals and six lackluster first year with the ago, after a 4-1 trouncing of assists. Allison also picked up Broncos. Iacopelli picked up the Michigan State University two NCHC player of the week NCHC offensive player of the Spartans, the Broncos would go awards; one in October and one week twice and was awarded on to face the Huskies and after in December. the NCHC player of the month three hard fought periods of Another new face making for November. hockey the two headed to over- a difference for the Broncos is The Broncos look to continue time. There, the game winning Ben Blacker. Blacker and Gor- their turnaround season as they goal would be scored by sopho- such have been spending most welcome in the University of more forward Colt Conrad and the time in net for the team, Denver to Lawson Arena on Jan. the Broncos would be named Blacker however has recently 13 and 14 for a two-game series. GLI Champions at Joe Louis been the hot goaltender. Blacker The team will be looking to Arena for the last time before has three NCHC players of the avenge the two losses they were the Red Wings move to the week under his belts and was handed earlier in the season. brand new Little Caesars Arena named NCHC rookie of the Puck drop is set for 6:30 p.m. next fall. month for December. He went Friday and 7 p.m. Saturday. Fresh faces on the team have 2-0 only allowing one goal in helped the Broncos in their the GLI and earning his first turnaround season. Fresh- career shutout. Champions. Photo courtesy of Gwen De Young. Sports 7 Emotional loss for Broncos still bolsters positive, gracious attitudes from players Trey Sobolewski this team made it as far as they Sports Editor did. With the loss of players like ARLINGTON, Texas -- Fol- quarterback Zach Terrell, wide lowing their first and only loss receivers Corey Davis, Michael of the season, the Western Henry and Carrington Thomp- Michigan University football son, Moton and Adams. team had some time to reflect “My four years here at on the Cotton Bowl, their play Western has been phenomenal. and for the seniors, their time Like Zach [Terrell] said, we’ve at Western. been through so much and I’ve The start of the game was learned so many lessons, not rocky for the Broncos, by the only on the field, but off the end of the first quarter the lead field as well,” Davis said. “I’m was up to 14-0 for the Badgers. going to take them with me for “We just came out and the rest of my life, and I can’t started out slow. Wisconsin thank coach Fleck enough for came out and executed better taking a chance on kid with than we did and you can’t get little to nothing.” down 14-0 to the number eight The MAC should be proud team in the nation, especially of the way that WMU repre- how they play,” senior defensive sented their conference today. end Keion Adams said. The top team in the MAC held The first quarter saw only their own with one of the top 46 yards of total offense by the teams in the BIG 10, and that Broncos, whereas the Badgers is not something that happens totaled 166. In run yards alone, Senior wide receiver Corey Davis in the Cotton Bowl Classic postgame press conference. Photo courtesy of Brendan Buffa every season. the Badgers led the Broncos by “It was definitely something 100 yards; the Broncos only had tum began to change and the Badgers. mal. They were a few seconds that we wanted to do, we just four, while the Badgers racked Broncos looked more like the “I don’t really feel like we away from winning the Big Ten wanted to go out and show that up 104. Mid-American Conference lost. I feel like we got beat and championship, and here they we’re us and just show the world “You can’t come in and play Champions that they are. they were a better team than are in the Cotton Bowl. And the ‘Row the Boat’ culture and a team like Wisconsin and dig “For a team like Wisconsin us today. And knowing this you’re talking about a top six, I think that we did an amazing yourself a hole in the first quar- trying to make a comeback team, I know that they’re going top seven team in the country,” job at doing that,” Adams said. ter,” senior right tackle Taylor is difficult, but coach says we to come back with an elite Fleck said. It was not easy for all the Moton said. “We fought back focus on play at a time. We response and read to get on that But with all the pressure that senior Broncos to say goodbye, and focused on the one play to just keep our oar in the water,” 2017 season,” junior running there was on this MAC team in but if there was any stage to do the next. It was a tremendous junior linebacker Asantay back Jarvion Franklin said. the Cotton Bowl, the allure of so, this would be the one. effort by our team and we have Brown said. Even head coach P.J. Fleck the Cotton Bowl was not lost on “It was just awesome to play a lot to be proud of.” It was a tough loss for the respected the team that he was the players. with my brothers again for the The end of the second Broncos, but most attributed slotted against. “It was an unbelievable last time. I’m going to miss quarter is when the momen- the win to the solid play of the “Wisconsin is a different ani- experience this week. From the them,” an emotional Thomp- Cowboys and Mavs games to the son said. “I’m so proud to be a great hospitality at the hotel, we Bronco, man.” had a great time,” Moton said. The effort by the seniors this season was, in large, part of why

Senior quuarterback Zach Terrell scores the first Bronco touchdown. Photo courtesy of Brendan Buffa The Bronco defense wraps up Wisconsin quarterback Bart Houston for a sack. Photo courtesy of Brendan Buffa 8 Western Herald Broncos’ men’s basketball continues MAC play against Toledo, Kent State Stephen Konecny leading scorer, senior forward outside of the paint, as they are Staff Reporter Steve Taylor Jr., is 11th in the second-to-last in three-point After posting a 4-8 record in MAC, scoring 200 points this percentage as well, at .319. non-conference play to start the season, averaging just over 15 Senior forward Jimmy Hall season, the Western Michigan points per game. WMU’s junior leads Kent State in points, scor- University men’s basketball guard Thomas Wilder is ninth ing 250, which is good for fifth team is set to begin Mid-Ameri- in the MAC in scoring, aver- place in the MAC. He lead Kent can Conference play. On Jan. 10, aging just over 16 points per State in scoring in their 87-84 the University of Toledo Rockets game. In both games against victory over WMU last season, will bring their 7-6 non-confer- Toledo last season, Wilder lead scoring 21 points. Sophomore ence record to Kalamazoo. the Broncos in scoring, drop- guard Jaylin Walker is second Last season, WMU split ping 20 points in their loss and in scoring for Kent with 210 their two games against Toledo, 18 in their victory. points, which is tied for 12th but WMU struggled to slow On Jan. 14, WMU welcomes place in the MAC. Wilder had down senior guard Jonathan Kent State University to Kalam- two of his best games of last Williams, who dropped 24 azoo, and will look to avenge season against Kent State, scor- points in Toledo’s victory and both loses last season. Kent ing 28 in their 87-84 loss, and 21 points in Western’s victory State is averaging 80 points per 24 in their 85-78 loss. last season. Williams is second game, good for fourth in the WMU continues MAC play in the MAC in scoring, putting MAC, but Kent State’s weak with a trip to Eastern Michigan up 284 points thus far. He is spot is field goal percentage, University on Jan. 17 and a trip averaging just over 20 points averaging .423 percent, which is to the University of Buffalo on per game, while his field goal tied for last in the MAC. It will Jan. 21, and they will return to percentage is only .465. be advantageous for Western Thomas Wilder goes in for a lay-up. Photo courtesy of Gwen De Young. Kalamazoo Jan. 24 to take on Slowing Williams down will if they can force Kent State to the University of Akron. be key for WMU, as their next take a majority of their shots Cotton Bowl is a homecoming for WMU wide receiver Carrington Thompson Trey Sobolewski azoo. Thompson recorded 10 and two touchdowns in 12 “His role and the way he has Family is big for Thompson, Sports Editor touchdowns and 1,210 yards games. But it is clear that he been able to change has been who said that this homecoming ARLINGTON, Texas -- Hailing for the Northwood University figured it out this season, huge for us.” was more of a “family reunion” from Houston, Texas, redshirt Timberwolves in Division II starting all 13 games, while A big part of the maturing than anything. senior wide receiver Carrington before ever stepping foot on recording 38 catches for 605 process for Thompson came off “It’s great; I haven’t seen Thompson is familiar with the WMU turf. yards and six touchdowns. the field, in raising his son. them in a long time. It’s just Dallas scene. Thompson, who “Coming into spring ball I “Without him and Mike “You can’t raise a child with great for them to come see me starred at Lamar High School in realized that I would need to Henry and guys like that step- a child. He definitely helped play my last game in college and Houston, has had aspirations of grow up coming from North- ping up and really taking on a me grow up. I want him to be just to have them around for the playing at AT&T Stadium since wood,” Thompson said. key role in this offense and on able to look at the TV and tell love and support is awesome,” back in his high school days, Growing up and learning this team as leaders, we would his friends ‘that’s my dad,’” he said. so it only seems fitting that his his role on this Broncos team not be here today,” Terrell said. Thompson said. Just like his head coach, P.J. final game of his senior season has been crucial for not only Fleck, Thompson is only looking is played not at Waldo Stadium Thompson, but the success of forward to one game, the Cotton in Kalamazoo, but still at home. the team as a whole. Bowl, after that? Unknown. “I’ve always wanted to play in “Carrington has matured so “As of now I’m just trying this place since high school and much over his time [at Western] to focus on this last game and I never got a chance, now I’m and I think that’s what I’m most being able to get the win with finally getting a chance to be proud of, to see the way that he my team,” Thompson said. here with a team that I created has progressed,” quarterback “What happens out there, hap- a great bond with,” Thompson Zach Terrell said. “I think when pens out there.” said. “It’s just great to end it he first came in here, he knew right, in the right place, being he had the talent, and I think he back home, and sharing my believed in himself, but I’d say hometown with [the team] and the maturity part was lacking giving them the experience that and I think he would tell you I had while I was here.” the same. It took him a while to Thompson did not find his figure it out.” way to Western, and ultimately But figure it out he did. As the Cotton Bowl easily. His col- a junior, Thompson put up lege football career did begin in below average numbers, only Michigan, but far from Kalam- eight catches for 89 yards From left to right, Corey Davis, Zach Terrell and Carrington Thompson throw up the Dez Bryant “X” in the Cowboys’ locker room. Photo courtesy of Gwen De Young. Arts & Entertainment 9

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WMU-AAUP RESOLUTION OF SOLIDARITY WITH WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

By the Board-Appointed Faculty of Western Michigan University

WHEREAS the Board-appointed faculty of Western Michigan University, represented by our collective-bargaining chapter of the American Association of University Professors, stands for academic excellence, shared governance, higher education as a public good, and academic freedom; WHEREAS our core academic mission includes instruction, research, scholarship, creative activity, and professional service; WHEREAS this work is foundational to the development of our students as knowledgeable and engaged citizens, informed participants in the democratic process, and possessors of a spirit of tolerance and acceptance; WHEREAS the intellectual character of a university is determined by its faculty; WHEREAS the faculty therefore also appropriately models character for our students and for the community in other ways, including in our ethical principles and moral convictions; WHEREAS these values inform our understanding and acceptance of the immense and humbling responsibility that we carry in the form of our students’ trust in us that we will treat them with respect, fairness, compassion, and generosity of spirit;

WHEREAS the faculty takes seriously its role in modeling, teaching, and facilitating critical thinking and respectful discourse; WHEREAS we recognize the challenges inherent in the exploration of controversial issues and ideas as well as the intellectual growth that can result from engaging these ideas respectfully and thinking critically about them; WHEREAS many Western Michigan University students are now feeling vulnerable, unwelcome, or even fearful for their safety and wellbeing, or for the safety and wellbeing of their classmates;

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This is a paid advertisement 10 Western Herald Davis, Washington, and company deliver in “Fences” A.T. Lambert his budding football career. layered tale full of humanity. Staff Reporter As the film progresses, Washington, who directs his Period character drama Troy’s verbosity and braggado- third full feature length film, “Fences,” directed by and cio is stripped down through allows August Wilson’s lively starring Denzel Washington, these Friday meetings and his writing to do the heavy lifting. chronicles the later life of interactions with those around As Troy begs to be heard and Troy Maxson, a middle-aged him. His wildly checkered past appreciated by his family and Pittsburgh garbage man who becomes apparent and his life the world at large, those close comes to grips with his failing full of hardships displays a man to him are left squarely in his familial relationships as well yearning to find meaning and shadow, forced to eke out their as his own mortality during importance in a world tailored few words and emotions in his the late 1950s. Faced with exclusively against him. Once brief silences. stagnation, frustration, and a baseball player in the Negro Unfortunately, this same temptation, he confronts a Leagues, Troy couldn’t make reliance on virtuosic dialogue rapidly changing world as his the jump to the MLB after forces “Fences” into an odd actions and behaviors deeply desegregation. He also met middle ground between stage affect those around him who his best friend Bono while in and screen. The writing tailored are also searching for purpose. jail for theft and has a severely towards the stage isn’t able to Based upon the 1987 Pulitzer mentally ill brother, played by fully utilize the entire language Prize and Tony winning August Mykelti Williamson, to whom of the camera and the medium P. Wilson drama stage play of he owes a great deal. isn’t able to display the intensity the same name, Washington Troy, now 54 years old, sees and depth of the shot. brings “Fences” to the silver a world becoming dramatically “Fences” remains an out- screen for its 2016 debut. A younger as he continues to age. standing film, however, and is mainstay on Broadway that As a side project, he attempts set to be a serious contender was resurrected for a 2009-2010 to build a fence in his backyard at the Oscars come February. revival stage production also to keep others out while also Many of the actors featured, starring Denzel Washington attempting to build a fence such as Viola Davis, Denzel and Viola Davis, it features within himself to keep death Washington, and Mykelti Wil- the late playwright’s signature and decay at bay. At the same liamson stand very good odds exploration of his home city of time, however, he unknow- at being nominated for acting Pittsburgh as well as black life ingly builds fences between awards. Washington also has in twentieth century America. those whom he loves, creating the potential to be nominated Each Friday afternoon, Troy, strife and disconnection which for Best Director with August P. played by Denzel Washington, further alienates those closest Wilson possibly being nomi- saunters home with his weekly to him. nated posthumously for Best pay, ready to pontificate to Confined to very few back- Adapted Screenplay. his family and best friend in drops and settings, such as Regardless of the Oscar hype his back yard with tantalizing different spaces in or around the or powerhouse cast, “Fences” is stories, anecdotes, and jokes. Maxson family home, the cast of a worthwhile film that should His lawn chair is his pulpit “Fences’ carries the film’s energy be seen due its incredibly and his holy text is the bottle “Fences” Photo courtesy of IMDb.com through spirited moments of authentic take on longing and of gin that he shares with the joy, bouts of wicked disagree- family life in the shadow of a surrounding congregation. a quick wit and unmatched Stephen Henderson. To his son, ment, and shattering moments uniquely American prejudice What becomes abundantly charisma, he charms his patient Cory, however, played by Jovan of sadness. Davis, Washington, and injustice. clear to the audience is that wife, Rose, played by Viola Adepo, he remains a stern Henderson, and Williamson Troy would never be mistaken Davis, and entertains his best monument, hoping for Cory’s work extremely well off of each for a man of few words. With friend, Jim Bono, played by success, yet inhibiting him from other and build an incredibly A WMU success story: Tim Bauer’s grocery store Will Kriss that sets it apart from other Quality Beet, such as offering PhD Sociology program, into opening a student run cafe Staff Reporter grocery options. affordable, healthy food in which he remained in for four at WMU, and over the last five Former Western Michigan “The focus is on being sus- an area that tends to not have and a half years. years, they have offering weekly University PhD candidate Tim tainable and having low waste, many options for organic food “I started this degree because lunches at the Wesley Founda- Bauer, 31, has gone above and while also being affordable and that is good for the body and I was interested in people’s tion. Being involved with this beyond his educational career offering mostly healthy food,” soul. Bauer is also working habits regarding sustainability group was very influential to by achieving his dream job - Bauer said about the mission towards selling the food in his and environmental issues,” said what I’m doing.” owning and operating his own statement of his store. “My grocery store in a more sus- Bauer. “My research focused Bauer was also involved as a grocery store. motivation is to offer afford- tainable way, which will involve on issues with food waste. Why Sociology professor during his The store, called “Quality able and healthy food in area finding uses for the foods that we waste, how we waste, how time at WMU, as well as volun- Beet,” will be opening this where those options don’t exist. are overstocked, Bauer said. this could change. I was also teering time with WIDR FM, February in Bauer’s hometown Additionally, I want to find Following the achievement involved with the Campus Beet, WMU’s radio station, under the of Michigan City, IN, with a more sustainable and low waste of a Master’s Degree in Sociol- a Registered Student Orga- name “DJ Tedward.” prideful offering of healthy food options for food selling, pur- ogy from Roosevelt Univer- nization focused on offering to the consumer marketplace chasing, and consumption.” sity, Bauer began attending healthy, affordable, sustainable Bauer has multiple goals for WMU in 2010, joining the food. This initiative has looked Cont. on pg. 11 Arts & Entertainment 11

Slowing the pace allows WMU Continued: Tim Bauer’s grocery store student to find their stride Elizabeth Field from surgery brought them difference at WMU and in the Staff Reporter back to the hospital. Since that Kalamazoo community. In 2016, Western Michigan visit in April 2016, Grooten has “Because of my music, I was University senior Casey Groo- been doing well. able to facilitate community ten faced death and used the “Now I understand it’s a conversations on transgender experience to focus on their very large thing to face death,” issues,” Grooten said. “Not just art and education. In 2017, Grooten said. “It’s a very diffi- with members of that commu- Grooten is just beginning to cult thing to do it three times nity, but also allies, which is find their stride. with myself, and then a fourth super important.” Grooten, a 26-year-old if you want to count dealing Grooten performed and creative writing major, has with my dad.” spoke at the Transgender Day been attending WMU on-and- During these difficult times, of Remembrance at Kalamazoo off since 2009, and will be Grooten continued to write and College in 2015, and has done a graduating in August. In the express what they were feeling lot of work with the Fire Histor- last two months, Grooten has through visual art. ical and Cultural Arts Collabo- had four poems published: “I’m very, very thankful for rative, 1249 Portage St. Time Bauer, owner of Quality Beet. Photo courtesy of Tim Bauer. one by Yellow Chair Review, it,” Grooten said. “I’m definitely Grooten has also partici- a literary journal, and three more patient with myself, as pated in several poetry readings Cont. from pg. 10 Kalamazoo Coffee Company. by Five:2:One magazine, an well as with others.” in Kalamazoo and attends a “We also will host regular online and print publication. “Casey basically stared weekly poetry workshop with He also performed multiple events, like concerts and bingo. They will also have a poem death in the face and was peers and WMU professors. concerts with his punk band I plan on having monthly con- featured in the WMU School like, ‘Not this time,’” said In addition to creative The Free Life. certs, and will likely hist some of Medicine in the near future. Jacob Houvener, Grooten’s writing and performance, When asked why he chose Kalamazoo bands,” Bauer said. Grooten identifies as partner of two years. “I feel Grooten also creates visual, Michigan City over Kalamazoo Although Quality Beet will non-gendered and uses the pro- like [for] a lot of people, that digital, and wearable art, and to open his shop his answer not be open until February, nouns they, them, and theirs. would have just been it, and emphasizes the importance of was simple. Bauer is planning a pre-open- “I am transgender,” Grooten they probably would have making art inclusive. “I had the opportunity to ing party on January 20th, said. “It’s a large part of my just died from all that.” “When I make artwork, move into a retail spot in an featuring regional favorite surf- identity, but it’s not all of me.” Over the course of their I want it to be affordable,” artist living space in Michigan punk bands Wood Chickens In late Dec. 2015, Grooten’s student career, Grooten had to Grooten said. “I use found City. In Kalamazoo, it was hard and Evil Waves. father died in a car accident. leave WMU twice due to failing materials or gifted materials to find an affordable and avail- Quality Beet will be located A few months later, after a grades, but enrolled again in to create probably 90 percent able commercial space,” Bauer at 717 Franklin in Michigan series of health issues, Grooten fall 2016. of my artwork. Art can be said. “Michigan City is an easy City, Indiana, where any Bronco learned they had endocarditis, “Everybody was telling me exclusive if you can’t keep stop on the way to Chicago.” passing through can support an inflammation of the heart’s to take this many classes, and production cost down.” With Kalamazoo still at a fellow Bronco’s homegrown inner lining. If left untreated, what the norm was for people,” After Grooten graduates, heart and at mind, Bauer is business while eating healthier endocarditis can damage heart Grooten said. “Once I decided they plan to continue selling making sure that Quality Beet and helping the environment at valves and lead to life-threaten- to only take two or three their art and saving money, so will be serving coffee from the the same time. ing complications, according to classes a semester, that was the that they and Houvener can the Mayo Clinic. biggest change for me. I guess I move to either Eugene, Oregon Grooten had surgery to just realized I do things pretty or Tacoma, Washington. remove the infected tissue that slowly, and that’s important for “I think those are the only caused the endocarditis, and me, so I just have to get used two at the moment,” Grooten WORK INON was in recovery in the hospi- to that.” said. “We’ve been crossing them tal for about a month. After Grooten has also used off because it’s time to start returning home, a complication their voice and art to make a making those decisions.” Grooten and Houvener were drawn to those cities because of their active art scenes, openness MAKE LIFE LONG FRIENDS. to the LGBTQ community, and metro transit systems. After saving up money and The Island House Hotel and Ryba’s Fudge Shops experiencing life in one of are looking for help in all areas this summer: those cities for a few years, Grooten hopes to continue Front Desk, Bell Sta , Wait Sta , Sales Clerks, Kitchen, Baristas. building their portfolio and get into Bauhaus University, an art Housing, bonus, and discounted meals. school in Germany. “That’s the plan,” Grooten said. “I’m very lucky because 906–847–7196 I can be writing, and I can be www.theislandhouse.com supporting myself with my visual art at the same time as we’re saving up.”

Casey Grooten, a creative writing major at WMU. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Field 12 Western Herald Making Kalamazoo part of your 2017 resolutions Devin Little oneself in more extracurricu- tions to study more, perhaps and older, downtown Kalam- more time and other means Staff Reporter lar activities will be common make a resolution to try every azoo offers a wide variety of to appreciate small, local Over the last days of Decem- resolutions among all college donut from Sweetwater’s. A options for a night of festiv- artists, go check out a student ber and the opening days of students, including those at study session is a lot more ities. Make a point to visit as production at the Gilmore January, people everywhere Western Michigan University. bearable when coffee and many venues as possible. Theatre Complex, whether will make resolutions varying “I want to give back to this donuts are involved. To compliment the reso- it’s visual or performance art. in subject and severity as they school which has given me “(Younger) students should lution to live in the moment And, of course, if you want to greet the new year with opti- so much,” WMU student ride the metro bus downtown and make the most of it, appreciate local writers, The mism. Things like healthier Andrew Franklin said. “I hope or to the mall. Get lost in the resolve yourself to find and Western Herald and other life choices, actions in pursuit others in this next year will be Zoo. Older students should take a selfie with President sources of student pieces can of goals and dedicating more proud of this community.” take advantage of Kalam- Dunn before he vacates that be found throughout campus. time to loved ones tend to These are all fine resolu- azoo’s great beer culture,” position. Join in on the many Like any resolution, it is be common objectives. With tions, and definitely things Franklin added. colorful chants heard from up to the individual to see 2016 widely regarded as a to strive for, but with unique If you’ve made a resolution the Lawson Lunatics during a it through. As you work down year, many are looking circumstances comes unique to meet more people, your Bronco hockey game. Attend towards those resolutions of for every opportunity to pre- opportunities. WMU stu- second resolution should be an event that a professor personal and professional vent 2017 from following suit. dents, whether they are to check out Kalamazoo’s mentions during class – espe- growth, why not put in effort As college students all over freshmen or seniors, are all bars and restaurants. Even cially if it involves your field to have a little fun along the the country prepare for the granted with prospects that if you’re under 21, certain of study. You’ll never get a way as well? Though 2017 has Spring semester, the effects only their surroundings can places like The Library and truer taste of the WMU expe- only just begun, it’s never too of previous years may weigh provide. There’s only one The Mix have specific nights rience than when you’re on early to make this year one of heavily on whatever resolu- Kalamazoo: a city that comes and times where minors are campus, so make the most of the best. tions they may have. Perfect- to life when its inhabitants allowed in, which provides your college experience while ing study habits, communi- make the most of what it has ample opportunity for Bron- you’re here. cating more or better with to offer. cos of all ages to mingle with Finally, if you’ve made instructors and even involving Along with those resolu- unfamiliar faces. For those 21 the resolution to invest Wesley Foundation becomes more involved with campus at new location Mary Dempsey young adults.” only to each other, but to the Staff Reporter On top of the alterna- entire Kalamazoo commu- Since 1964, the Wesley Foun- tive spring breaks, Wesley nity. Through outreach pro- dation on Western Michigan is also has plans for this grams like the “Urban Plunge” University’s campus has been spring semester, including that has students dive into located at the heart of campus. a program they call “Muf- their own community to However, in early March 2016, fins for Advocacy,” where lend a helping hand and put the Wesley Foundation opened every Thursday, students are themselves in other people’s their new building, located invited to the Wesley founda- shoes, to simply providing a next to Two Fellas. tion for a muffin and coffee safe space for those who need “[The new building] was or tea and advocate for a a place to step away from the made possible through a social justice cause by calling hustle and bustle of college buyout from WMU of the old or writing to a representa- life, Wesley is here to help property and fund raising tive. “Muffins for Advocacy” with the growth of WMU efforts that resulted in gifts is open to anyone who is students and the Kalamazoo from board members, alumni, interested in participating. community. churches and a grant from Volunteers will be armed “Wesley has always chal- the John C. Lasko Founda- with the tools to advocate for lenged me and helped me tion,” Executive Director and The new Wesley Foundation, located at 820 Rankin Ave.. Photo courtesy of Lisa immigration rights, LGBTQ+ grow in my understanding Campus Minister Lisa Batton Batten. advocacy and other issues of the world and how we, as told the Western Herald. and seeking to be the best a large dedication working While the old building had part of the church, things for social justice causes its perks, such as its central like differing beliefs and and providing students and “Wesley has always challenged me and helped location on campus, the new backgrounds only add to community members service building is improved, fresh the richness of diversity we learning experience. The two me grow in my understanding of the world and and is better suited for pro- consistently seek,” former biggest services students at grams and events, whereas Assistant Pastor Scott Marsh Wesley take part in include how we, as Christians, are called to act, casting the previous building was said. “Over the years we have You Are Not Alone and the things like judgement and hurt aside and not. The accessibility of the had every belief you could Kalamazoo Free Store. new building is also great for think of come through our “We also have two alter- calling on love grace and mercy,” the students and community doors. Students have found native spring break trips groups that rent the build- the mission and volunteer planned, one to Atlanta for ing for their various events, work we do as a great way to service learning in urban that the Kalamazoo commu- Christians, are called to act, two of which are the Voices get involved.” poverty and an educational nity is facing. casting things like judgement of WMU Gospel Choir and Students do not need to trip focused on anti-racism The Wesley Foundation is and hurt aside and calling on Eliminating Racism and Cel- be a member of the church work in St. Louis, Memphis so much more than another love grace and mercy,” Marsh ebrating Community Equity, in order to be involved in and New Orleans,” Batton church, it’s a community said. “This, I feel, sets the also known as ERACCE. the Kalamazoo community. said. “All of these initiatives of people who stand by one stage for interaction with “Because Wesley is so open The Wesley Foundation has are being planned and led by another and offer support not those of differing beliefs.” Opinions 13 Continued: FLECK OFF Cont. from front page WMU organization with him departure comes the dis- community that still is excited Along with the rape allegations, to Minnesota. Although the cussion of a buyout of his as they could possibly be about former Minnesota head coach “Yes, we do own the licens- discussions have not yet been standing contract through the momentum that we have in Jerry Kill, a known mentor of ing regarding ‘Row the Boat’. had, she expects several coaches 2020 with WMU, which totals the program and are continu- Fleck’s, has said he “won’t be That was part of the discus- to depart along with Fleck. $600,000. ing to be able to supply us the stepping foot into [Minne- sions in the commitment we “It is my assumption that there “We have not yet had dis- needed external dollars that sota’s] stadium” or “stepping had when he first came to the will be several accompanying cussions on how that is going are going to have to take place,” back into that university,” university,” Beauregard said. him, however I don’t know to occur,” Beauregard said. Beauregard said. according to an interview with “I do expect the conversations names, numbers or any of those “[$600,000] is the amount that Fleck is walking into a 1500 ESPN radio. to come up, but we have not issues,” Beauregard said. he and or Minnesota owes us rather controversial role as Aside from the decision had any of that at this time.” The reasoning for Fleck’s for him leaving before his con- head coach in Minnesota made by Fleck and both Min- Fleck, on the other hand, departure comes with some tract terms were completed.” shortly after 10 players have nesota and WMU administra- has intentions to include his uncertainty, but the state of tions, Beauregard is confident “Row the Boat” mantra within Minnesota’s program could those involved in the decision his new position at Minnesota. prove to be a worthy challenge In addition to Fleck’s departure comes the making process will find “[Row the Boat] is going to for his coaching capabilities. discussion of a buyout of his standing contract another individual to helm be blended with Ski-U-Ma, I’ll “If you would have asked the growing football program. tell you that. Somehow, some- me if [Minnesota] would be a through 2020 with WMU, which totals “There’s a lot that’s involved way. I’ll tell you how it’s all job that would have been on if you’re going after people in connected, but I promise you his list of top priority, I would $600,000. head coaching positions and it’s all connected,” Fleck said have said no. However it is a the timing is a bit difficult. in an interview with Minne- Big 10 school, it’s an incred- Beauregard also spoke on been accused of a gang rape in But that does not stop the sota’s Fox 9. ible university. They have the behalf of the community early September, followed by a Broncos. There’s no doubt In addition to the “Row the challenges ahead of them - PJ surrounding Kalamazoo and protest of the administration about that. There’s a tremen- Boat” mantra, Fleck’s depar- likes challenges. We certainly WMU, including “new money” and their bowl game against dous coaching staff behind us ture comes with the concern are going to wish him the best that was obtained by the boost- Washington State, which was to help recruit our new coach, of whether or not he will take in that,” Beauregard said. ers and business community inevitably played resulting in which I will count on them assistant coaches from the In addition to Fleck’s “I know we have a business a win for the Golden Gophers. doing that too.”

Opinion: War at home Autre Murray presence within our own bor- are a result of Richard Nix- Staff Reporter ders? Our government seems on’s so-called war on drugs, Ever since Donald Trump to think so. enacted in 1968. According waEver since Donald Trump Data shows that $2.2 to CNN, John Ehrlichman, was elected as head of state, billion of federal money Nixon’s aide, admitted the most people may feel a sense was transferred to police true intent on the policy in of impending doom, espe- departments nationwide to which he said: cially after his recent tweet pay for heavy military gear, “We knew we couldn’t about increasing our nuclear according to Forbes. Heli- make it illegal to be either arms. His so-called friendli- copters, airplanes, armored against the war or black, ness towards Russia may have vehicles and assault rifles will but by getting the public to some people on edge about be given to our protective associate the hippies with the future of our country. forces to use how they see marijuana and blacks with However, we should not be fit. However it brings into heroin. And then criminal- afraid of any potential war- question what the legitimate izing both heavily, we could fare across borders, because law enforcement purpose is disrupt those communities,” we have already been fighting for this type of weaponry, Ehrlichman said. “We could a war against our own gov- according to Forbes. Some arrest their leaders, raid their ernment for decades. will say terrorist events such homes, break up their meet- It would be nice to say there as 9/11 or the Boston Mara- ings, and vilify them night are no missiles, tanks or assault thon are the reasons behind after night on the evening weapons in this war, but that law enforcement’s weaponry. news. Did we know we were For over 30 years, Veterans for Peace can’t even be said. Watching While domestic and foreign lying about the drugs? Of has been working to build a culture of the protest against the Dakota terrorism is a serious threat course we did.” Access Pipeline last year was and must be treated as such, As a black man myself, I peace, in our own communities and like watching a battle as heavily there is a obviously substan- worry that every time an offi- armored law enforcement was tial amount of Americans who cer sees me, will he or she act abroad. As veterans, we know that set upon peaceful protestors. It are not terrorists but have as a public servant or as a sol- wars are easy to start and often, very is disturbing when Black Lives felt the wrath of militarized dier of the drug war? I can’t Matter events are met with antag- police officers. 963 Americans concern myself with a chance difficult to end. We believe that peace onizing police presence instead of of all races have been shot of a nuclear war when there an apology for the losses. and killed by police officers in is an ongoing battle happen- is possible. Local police departments 2016 alone, according to The ing here in our own country. are looking more like mili- Washington Post. We must remember that the tary units as the years go by. According to The Huffing- problem starts at home. www.veteransforpeace.org With that image in mind, it ton Post, 34 percent of those can bring into question are killed by law enforcement or call the national office 314-725-6005 we the enemies? Do the peo- were unarmed black males in ple really need such a forceful 2016. I think these tragedies 14 Western Herald

Opinion: Make changes for yourself, not because the calendar year has changed Brenden Mariage Staff Reporter The new year calls for new year resolutions. Every year millions of people attempt to set goals to better their lives on the first of the year. Setting goals and trying to achieve great things is something I strongly support. However, too often people use the new year as an excuse to put off these goals. It’s important to know that the only way to achieve a goal is to actually want to change. Unless someone actually wants to achieve something, it will not come to fruition. A new year will not simply change how someone feels about issues just because it is a new year. It takes personal perseverance to create some sort of change, otherwise the new year will seem just like any other typical day. In every major change I have made it has never been right after a new year. In my major weight loss journey, it started in August. I woke up one day and made the conscious choice. The hardest part of any change is the beginning, and after you get started it becomes easy. Setting goals is extremely important in the coming year as it is a fresh start, however Art by Emily Johnson this is not something that should be or has to be done goals, then keep a book next ideas out on paper and allows on Jan. 1, 2017. In the coming to your bed and read before you to then put those ideas year, I recommend setting you go to sleep. into action. short-term goals as well as In any goal there must be The whole “new year, long-term goals. It can be as a good amount of planning new me” nonsense is just a simple as getting assignments before actually beginning. charade. Change because you done a few days in advance, For example, when I was truly want to change. Do not or reading 30 minutes a day. making the change to lose change just because the cal- Small changes will eventu- weight I took my weight every endar year has changed from ally make large impacts in Saturday morning and kept 2016 to 2017. your life and will help you to track of it in my phone. I grow as a person. If change counted calories in my head something is something you every day and made sure I find yourself seeking within didn’t go over my allotted your own life, then make the amount. I tried other options conscious decision to do so. such as weight watchers, but Don’t wait for next week, or a in the end I didn’t find it magical day, get started now. helpful and did it on my own. Some ways to stay consis- The best way to set goals tent and accountable for goals and plan out your journey is is to write them down some- to take a sheet of paper and where you will see them each just begin writing down all and every day. If you want the ways to reach that goal. to lose weight, then write a Every time I have a new goal note on the fridge and plan in mind I take a giant white meals that will make you lose poster board and just begin weight and don’t stray from it. to scribble down everything I If reading more is one of your can think of. This gets all the Opinions 15

Opinion: The cost of fake news James Andres Take the topic of Obama’s Staff Reporter birth certificate. While it’s Fake news has been a topic of completely understandable to conversation these past few fundamentally disagree with weeks considering the role it someone’s political stance played in the recent election. and what they support, what What’s clear on this subject isn’t common is to completely is that fake news is often ignore that and claim against political in nature rang- verifiable fact that they were ing from talking about hot born in another country. button issues, public figures, Even today if you type into controversial figures or just google “Obama’s birth certifi- people and topics that are on cate” you’ll get headlines that people’s minds at the time. claim for example: “Hawaii Art by Emily Johnson Topics such as Democrats never verified Obama’s birth running a pedophile ring in a certificate,” published by likely to fall for fake news. gunman said he was there news will continue to get pizzeria have been published a website called Freedom What’s worse is that fake to investigate the right- published. So long as the peo- under the guise of truth. Outpost, and other baseless news can result in people’s wing conspiracy theory that ple keep believing baseless Fake news often runs on conspiracies that cloud and lives being endangered Hillary Clinton and her conspiracies and fabricated the premise of writing delib- influence public discussion. thanks to today’s hyper campaign chairman John events, public discourse will erately crazy headlines in an What’s worse is that fake partisan world. For example, Podesta ran a child sex ring be diverted by the haze of lies attempt to grab someone’s news seems to be getting an that conspiracy theory that in the back of the restaurant. and misinformation. Politics attention and goad them into even stronger foothold in the Democrats were running a While no-one was harmed in has been and always will be clicking on the link, clickbait public mind. A recent Buzz- pedophile ring in a pizzeria the incident, this illustrates dirty and controversial, but in essence. While this seems feed article wrote that “Fake resulted in the pizza shop the extreme end of what fake fake news turns this reality trivial, in today’s divisive news headlines fool Ameri- and nearby businesses getting news can instigate. into an extreme by publishing political world fake news can adults about 75 percent of death threat and threats of From Obama being a Ken- lies to make money. Unless hurts the public discourse the time.” Something inter- violence. This culminated yan born Muslim, Clinton people are more mindful they and distracts from real topics esting to note is that the arti- in a gunman walking into being complicit in child risk falling into this trap and and concerns, inserting what cle says people who rely on the pizza shop armed with sexual assault, to Planned hurting the conversation. amounts to conspiracy theo- Facebook as a major source an assault rifle, according Parenthood selling baby parts ries into the mainstream. of their news are much more to The Huffington Post. The on the black market, fake Opinion: Putin will not make America great again Alex Taylor paign has slowly developed of a country that once made Staff Reporter into a national crisis that may headlines for the right rea- A new year has brought forth soon see global repercussions. sons. Glorifying the United more political backlash Just 19 days after this States is never a fair judge- surrounding Donald Trump’s report, another article ment, but maybe Trump was successful presidential cam- published by The Wall Street right: maybe we do need to paign in 2016, as new reports Journal said that Trump Make America Great Again. have surfaced on the rela- believes the Office of the With that being said, it is tionship between Trump and Director of National Intelli- no secret that history so often Vladimir Putin. In a time gence has become “bloated repeats itself. Jan. 20, 2017 where information circu- and politicized.” Per the Trump will be inaugurated lates the internet constantly, article, “President-elect Don- into the United State’s White there’s a baffling uncertainty ald Trump, a harsh critic of House. As of right now, he as to why a concrete answer U.S. intelligence agencies, is has made it known that his still hasn’t been decided. working with top advisers on Art by Emily Johnson political and economical ties On Dec. 16, FBI Director a plan that would restructure with Russia will be a cen- James B. Comey and Direc- and pare back the nation’s law-enforcement officials for rebuild, he presumably will terpiece for the direction he tor of National Intelligence top spy agency, people famil- praising Russian President not maintain the government steers this country. James R. Clapper Jr. mutually iar with the planning said.” Vladimir Putin, for criticiz- officials he does not see eye- Trump’s campaign may agreed with a CIA field report It seems Trump has ing U.S. spy agencies, and to-eye with. have sparked the slogan, in which Russia was found nuzzled his way into such now for embracing Assange, The news of Trump’s but as American citizens, to have intervened in the a position of power where long viewed with disdain constant contact with a man we must wonder whether presidential election that con- those who disagree with him by government officials and like Putin is disheartening a Trump-Putin duo is the cluded with Trump victorious. will be punished. This creates lawmakers,” according to The in-and-amongst-itself, but answer to make this country According to The Washington a dangerous concoction as Wall Street Journal. what may be even more dis- great again. Post, this assessment found Trump continues to build These same lawmakers, couraging: our questions are that Putin and other Russian bridges with individuals intelligence agents and still not being answered. officials were aiding Trump’s with poor reputations on the law-enforcement officials The last year has been campaign against Democrat global scale. disagreeing with Trump’s congested with racial tension, Hillary Clinton. “Mr. Trump has drawn decisions are the same ones economic inequality and What Trump has coined as criticism from Democratic working for the agencies he a pitiful election that has “just another excuse” used by and Republican lawmakers plans to reconstruct himself. landed us here, in 2017, left the media opposing his cam- and from intelligence and As a man in power of this to pick up all the broken bits 16 Western Herald

Letter from the Editor: Forever brown and gold

Waldo Stadium lit up for my last time as a student on Friday, November 25 against University of Toledo. Photo by Brendan Buffa This Letter from the Editor what went through my mind Terrell, wide receiver Corey “Go Broncos” as an affection- WMU has been a home was written on Jan. 30 and as my high school friend, Eric Davis and linebacker Robert ate way to say, “we’re on the to me. As I make my way originally published online at Hudolin, guided me through- Spillane didn’t imagine such same team.” closer towards setting foot in westernherald.com. out the campus: this is where opportunities either. Students have bought Dallas, I realize how I struck you belong. You’ll make The early promises of suc- in. We’re all rowing here in gold with an opportunity of something of yourself here. cesses made by WMU head Kalamazoo, and it’s almost a lifetime. Although my time Brendan Buffa Editor-in-Chief It’s odd. Last October, I coach P.J. Fleck are now being unbelievable how I’m one of is coming to an end at WMU was adamant on dropping out sowed as the football team those individuals – not just with graduation looming, the SOMEWHERE, USA -- I’m of classes completely. I had has not only won it’s first bowl a student, but also a member legacy (or what I like to think currently sitting on a flight lost my three-year relation- game in program history, but of the media who has had as a legacy) will continue as to Charlotte, North Caro- ship with a woman who I they’re on a three year streak, the chance to cover the team my younger brother Anthony lina. No, that’s not the final had moved to and lived in while also claiming their first since 2015 – who is rowing will attend WMU in the fall destination – a brief layover Kalamazoo with. Too much Mid-American Conference right along. of 2017. in the Tar Heel State before on my plate right now, it’s Championship since 1988, As I approach my grad- Bless this university and Trey Sobolewski, sports time to move back home completing the 13-0 unde- uation date of April 29 in everything I have experi- editor of the Western Herald, and recover, I thought. After feated season and participat- disbelief and excitement, I enced throughout my time and I find ourselves in Dallas, finding solace in my position ing in a New Years Six Bowl as realize my thought process here. I will forever be brown Texas for a four-day venture of assistant sports editor a mid-major university. has come along to prove and gold. of covering the Western at the Western Herald and It’s odd. I vividly recall itself in a fashion I hadn’t Michigan University football being graciously accepted by students viciously criticizing thought was possible. This is team in the 81st Goodyear Jarritt Orlando, former sports Fleck’s newly introduced man- where I belong. I’m part of Cotton Bowl. editor and a man I now see tra in my first class in 2014 at a university that will be on I travel as a student jour- as my brother, I recanted WMU. As communications the national stage in mere nalist, clad in brown and gold my decision. It was a rough professor Dr. Chad Edwards days, battling on the gridiron to the excitement of numer- time in my life, but I recalled displayed the corny YouTube against a Big 10 team, the Uni- ous passing alumni and my thought process of when videos explaining the idea versity of Wisconsin. I have Have an opinion or current students at Detroit I first was introduced to behind Row the Boat, stu- received an education in pub- Metropolitan Airport who Kalamazoo: this is where you dents scoffed at the idea after lic relations from some of the comment on an article spotted the newly dubbed belong. You’ll make some- experiencing Fleck’s infamous most experienced, thoughtful in the Western Herald? “Row the Boat” mantra thing of yourself here. 1-11 season firsthand. and professional women I printed across my chest. Now, as I sit 30,000 miles “It makes no sense. Broncos have ever met (outside my It’s odd. Three years ago, in the air above the expanse have nothing to do with a boat. own mother, of course) in Dr. Write a Letter to the I came to this university as of the Midwest, I recall that What are we rowing? I don’t Anna Popkova and Dr. Leah Editor by emailing a first-generation college same thought process. Never get it,” students exclaimed. Omilion-Hodges. I have made herald-editor@wmich. student. I didn’t want to in my wildest dreams did I Now, you can’t walk friends that will last a lifetime; come here, originally. To my believe WMU would take me around the campus of WMU coworkers that I have many edu. admitted chagrin, I wanted to to Dallas with the oppor- – hell, you can’t walk around successful days left to enjoy don the maroon and gold of tunity to attend the Cotton the state of Michigan – with- with; experiences in the field Central Michigan University. Bowl as the editor in chief out seeing “Row the Boat.” As of athletics, journalism and After a visit to Kalamazoo of the university newspa- alumni and students alike marketing that will provide in late 2012, I changed my per. As an afterthought, greet one another, a cheery endless lessons as I enter the mind. I’ll always remember I’m sure quarterback Zach “Row the Boat” has surpassed professional field.