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Sophomore English education major Faith Gallagher walks on campus next to Booth Library while admiring the fall colors and weather on her way to her next class.
EIU students share what they’re thankful for this Thanksgiving
Former Illinois gov. Jim Edgar speaks to EIU and Charleston community members about stories and lessons learned from his life and career in Illinois politics in the Grand Ballroom of the Martin Luther King Jr University Union.
Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar shares story, advice to EIU community
Students met in the Center for Student Innovation Thursday to craft and have free snacks. President of the library ambassadors of Booth Christopher Redman said, “I feel like every event we planned is successful. We put the hard work and dedication into it.” 
Thanksgiving arrives early at Booth Library
Two people died in a murder suicide at 817 N. 34th St. in Mattoon on Nov. 10, 2024.
Mattoon pair who died in murder-suicide named by police
Former Illinois govenor Jim Edgar introduces David Yepsen, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at SIUC, during the Edgar Speaker Series in Buzzard Auditorium on Thurday.
Former governor visiting EIU
Redshirt junior offensive lineman Drew Wilder props the ball up during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.
Two linemen announce their decisions to transfer
Safety redshirt sophomore Kaelin Drakeford (22) tackles wide receiver redshirt sophomore Karate Brenson (0) at the Panthers vs. Tennessee State Tigers game.
EIU football loses starting safety to transfer portal
Guard Senior Kiyley Flowers, runs around the court and all the players to pass the ball as much as she can during the game against the University Of Illinois. The Womens Basketball team lost too the Univerisity of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.
Panthers of the Week: Kiyley Flowers, Kooper Jacobi
Forward senior Macy McGlone, back shoots the ball but miss and gets blocked by the University Of Illinois, The Womens Basketball team lost too the University of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.
Panthers of the Week: Pierce Holley, Macy McGlone
Eastern graduate quarterback Pierce Holley (3) and redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson (21) line up behind the line before the snap during the football game against Charleston Southern University Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.
EIU football to play last game of the season, hope to shake up conference standings
Anderson reflects on Yankees career during 9/11
Freshman right-handed pitcher Slater Wilcox (32) pitches at Coaches Stadium on Sunday for the EIU baseball game.
EIU Baseball’s path through OVC Tournament
Men's Baseball team players stand in the dugout at home against Bellarmine at Coaches Stadium on March 12, 2024. Eastern beat Bellarmine 9-4 Tuesday afternoon.
EIU Baseball honors seniors, win over MSU
Junior Outfield (1) Quade Peters join the team in excitedment after sliding into home base at the game against Bradley
EIU Baseball drops second game against MSU
The baseball team game get suspended due to the weather, the team walked back to the locker room at the game against Bradley University Tuesday
EIU Baseball loses fifth straight game
Guard Senior Kiyley Flowers, runs around the court and all the players to pass the ball as much as she can during the game against the University Of Illinois. The Womens Basketball team lost too the Univerisity of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.
Panthers of the Week: Kiyley Flowers, Kooper Jacobi
Forward senior Macy McGlone, back shoots the ball but miss and gets blocked by the University Of Illinois, The Womens Basketball team lost too the University of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.
Panthers of the Week: Pierce Holley, Macy McGlone
Charleston boys' basketball players scrimmage during an after school practice on Wednesday. Their season begins on Nov. 26.
Trojan boys’ basketball prepares for season with senior heavy roster
Redshirt Junior Forward Blake Goodman shoots and scores during the first half of the game of The Eastern Illinois University against Earlham Quakers men basketball game at Groniger Arena ,
EIU transfer talks about NBA camp counselor job in Q&A
Charleston girls' basketball finished up practice on Thursday ahead of it's season opener at the North American Lighting Thanksgiving Tournament at Paris High School.
CHS Trojans ready to start girl’s basketball season
Zaria Flippin, senior, sports media relations
COLUMN: Start paying student athletes to help them live
Patrick Schmitz Sophomore, Sports media Relations
COLUMN: Paying athletes could lead to roster cuts for EIU athletics
Payton Liggins, sophomore, sports media relations.
COLUMN: What went wrong with EIU football?
Chloe Proffitt
COLUMN: Female athletes are just as capable as male
Patrick Schmitz
COLUMN: Court storming should be a thing of the past
Freshman Joe Stoddard (117) runs at the 2023 EIU Walt Crawford open.
Panthers of the Week: Joe Stoddard, Alex Tetteh
Pierce Holley, a junior quarterback (3), looks to throw the ball to a teammate during their homecoming game against UT Martin at O‘Brien Field Saturday afternoon.
Fall 2024 athletes to watch
Taris Thornton, a junior forward, attempts to rebound the ball during the during second quarter of the women's basketball game against the Western Illinois University Leathernecks at Groniger Arena on Saturday afternoon. Thornton scored 13 points, had two rebounds and shot 4-6 for field goals. The Panthers won 72-62 against the Leathernecks.
Panthers of the Week: Joe Stoddard, Taris Thornton
Panthers of the Week: Macy McGlone, Isai Morales
Panthers of the Week: Macy McGlone, Isai Morales
COLUMN: Why you should watch running sports
COLUMN: Why you should watch running sports
Redshirt junior offensive lineman Drew Wilder props the ball up during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.
Two linemen announce their decisions to transfer
Safety redshirt sophomore Kaelin Drakeford (22) tackles wide receiver redshirt sophomore Karate Brenson (0) at the Panthers vs. Tennessee State Tigers game.
EIU football loses starting safety to transfer portal
Forward senior Macy McGlone, back shoots the ball but miss and gets blocked by the University Of Illinois, The Womens Basketball team lost too the University of Illinois, in the State farm center on the U of I campus on Nov 14, 2024 in Champaign Ill.
Panthers of the Week: Pierce Holley, Macy McGlone
Eastern graduate quarterback Pierce Holley (3) and redshirt sophomore Jay Pearson (21) line up behind the line before the snap during the football game against Charleston Southern University Saturday at O'Brien Stadium. The Panthers won 16-13.
EIU football to play last game of the season, hope to shake up conference standings
Quarterback Redshirt Freshman, Blainey Dowling, prepares to throw the ball while doing a scrimmage drill on O'Brien Field
EIU quarterback shares experience at Chicago Mount Carmel in Q&A
Number 11 Adam Boykin a forward freshman for Eastern Illinois University keeps the ball away from Middle field 21 Timothy Ospina player for University of Incarnate word, at the Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus,
Freshman forward shares experience training with professional soccer players in Q&A
Midfielder Felipe Kerr Lourenco (6) passes the ball during the game against SIUE Sunday.
EIU men’s soccer honors seniors, loses playoff contention to SIUE
Senior, goalkeeper Chad Smith, Kicks the ball out of the goal during the Eastern Illinois University Vs University of Chicago game
Panthers lose to Lions after two quick goals
Sam Eccles, a senior forward (9), dribbles the ball pass defender during their game against University of Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles at Lakeside field thursday afternoon.
EIU men’s soccer by the numbers
Forward Casey Welage (8) and midfielder Jake Pollock (25) chase after the ball at men's soccer practice at Lakeside Field on Thursday.
Panthers of the Week: Jake Pollock, David Brown
Sophomore infielder, Kendall Grover swings and misses the ball during the Eastern Illinois University softball game against Tennessee State.
Grover, Oslanzi, Archibald win OVC Awards
Freshman pitcher McKenzie Oslanzi throwing a pitch on April Saturday 20, 2024 against Tennessee Tech University.
Panthers of the Week: McKenzie Oslanzi, Joe Stoddard
Senior guard Jordan "Tiger" Booker during the men's basketball game against Tennessee Tech Thursday night at Groniger Arena. The Panthers beat the Golden Eagles 68-59.
Panthers of the Semester: Tiger Booker, Macy McGlone, Tara Archibald
Freshman catcher Sophia Olman catching a pitch on Saturday April 20 2024 against Tennessee Tech.
Catcher talks about being a black belt in Q&A
softball
EIU softball loses nine-game winning streak to Tennessee Tech
Senior midfielder Avery Richardson stands still during a break in the game for a green carding during the Eastern Illinois University Panther game vs Tennessee Teach Golden Eagles at Lakeside Field on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Charleston, Ill. EIU won 2-1.
Panthers of the Week: Avery Richardson, Conner Colston
Through 40 years of coaching: Scott Teeters
Following an investigation, the men's swim team is suspended for the fall semester.
COLUMN: EIU should move on from swim program
The women's swim team lost their first home meet of 2024 149-109 against the University of Southern Indiana.
EIU swim competes for first time in 2024
Jackson Penny, a sophomore individual medley and breaststroke swimmer, jumps from the grab start of the men’s 200 yard medley relay for the breaststroke segment at the swimming meet on Saturday at Padovan Pool. The Panthers won 169-93 against Valparaiso.
EIU Swim competes as whole
Ludolph Wiggett, freshman Freshman Ludolph Wiggett tries to hit the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.
Freshman tennis player shares COVID-19 experience in Australia in Q&A
Pierce Holley, a junior quarterback (3), looks to throw the ball to a teammate during their homecoming game against UT Martin at O‘Brien Field Saturday afternoon.
Fall 2024 athletes to watch
Junior infielder Danny Infante tags University of Dayton freshman infielder David Mendez during their double header on March 16 and 17 at Coaches Stadium
Panthers of the Week: William Hays, Danny Infante
Tennis ball by the nets at the Darling Courts Wednesday afternoon
EIU men’s tennis gets second straight victory with win against USI
Fifth year senior Max Pilipovic-Kljajic is a computer science major from Brisbane, Australia, practicing his serve and is currently attending Eastern Illinois University
EIU tennis siblings’ journey from Australia
Eastern Illinois Volleyball team won 3-1 the game against Tennessee State at the Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus, Nov 20,2024. Charleston ILL.
EIU volleyball triumphs over TSU in season finale
The head coach of the Panthers calls for a quick team discussion at the end of tonight’s game against Tennessee Tech
EIU volleyball gets swept by Tennessee State; loses tournament hopes
The EIU volleyball team cheers during the Eastern Illinois University against Southern Illinois University Evansville, on Tuesday Oct 15. 2024. at Groniger Arena
What EIU volleyball needs to do to make the OVC Tournament
Head Volleyball Coach Cheers with the Volleyball team with a smile on her face ready for the next play, during the Eastern Illinois University against Southern Illinois University Evansville, on Tuesday Oct 15. 2024. at Groniger Arena on the Eastern Illinois University campus.
Takeaways from EIU volleyball versus Little Rock
Crews begin renovations in south McAfee Gym on Oct. 30. The stage along the east wall will most likely be covered by a temporary barrier, according to EIU Athletic Director Tom Michael, but he isn't sure exactly how it will look on game day. 
EIU volleyball to move practices, games to McAfee Gym in fall 2025
Cam'ron Hardy, Senior, Journalism
COLUMN: ‘The Intruder:’ nothing you haven’t seen before
Luke Brewer, Freshman, Journalism.
COLUMN: ‘We Live in Time:’ an emotional story told out of time
Enlow (Amalia Balash) unknowingly sells a leather music box as a musical candy box and then performs “No More Candy.”
‘She Loves Me’ closes doors after two-week showing
Cam'ron Hardy, Senior, Journalism
COLUMN: ‘King Richard:’ greatness starts with a plan and a tennis ball 
Luke Brewer, Freshman, Journalism.
COLUMN: ‘The Thing:’ a pleasantly grotesque horror 
Gunnar Olson, Senior, Journalism.
COLUMN: Pokémon TCG Pocket, we need to talk
Cam'ron Hardy, Senior, Journalism
COLUMN: ‘The Intruder:’ nothing you haven’t seen before
Luke Brewer, Freshman, Journalism.
COLUMN: ‘We Live in Time:’ an emotional story told out of time
Gunnar Olson, Senior, Journalism.
COLUMN: SNL made me cry last week
Cam'ron Hardy, Senior, Journalism
COLUMN: ‘King Richard:’ greatness starts with a plan and a tennis ball 
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 75: Annihilation: Destroying Each Other’s Opinion
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 74: Ready Player One: Winner Takes All
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies Ep. 73: Is Trick ‘r Treat (2007) A Staple In The Horror Genre?
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies: Ep. 72: Frankenhooker: Reanimated From The Grave
Two Dudes Talk Movies logo
Two Dudes Talk Movies: Ep. 71: The Fly: Buzzing Through The Gore
The EIU Reserve Officers' Training Corps loads the first group of cadets onto the Chinook aircraft for a ride around Charleston before landing back to the ground on Thursday. The ride was part of an aviation lab for cadets to learn what it was like to be on an aircraft.
THROUGH THE LENS: ROTC brings Chinook to EIU’s campus
Participants of the Haunted Hike take a hayride back to the entrance of Douglas Hart Nature Center. The guided hikes took off every five minutes on the trails to cycle through the different Beetlejuice themed stations on Saturday night, Oct. 19, from 5-8 p.m.
THROUGH THE LENS: ‘Beetlejuice’ takes over Douglas-Hart Nature Center
There were 24 finishers in the 50-mile race at the Tour De Charleston Saturday. First place finished the race in 2:10:16.22.
THROUGH THE LENS: Tour De Charleston
The Camp New Hope had a small Mattoon train that took people around the camp sight seeing during the Camp New Hope 50th anniversary.
THROUGH THE LENS: Camp New Hope celebrates 50th anniversary
Students start to cook the beans and corn for meatless tacos during a healthy cooking class.
THROUGH THE LENS: Something’s cooking in Klehm Hall
The student news site of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.

The Daily Eastern News
The student news site of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.

The Daily Eastern News
Rob Le Cates, Senior, Journalism.

Rob Le Cates, Opinions Editor

Rob Le Cates is a senior journalism major. He previously served as editor-in-chief, photo editor and assistant photo editor at The News.

All content by Rob Le Cates
Political Sign Comic

[Photo] EDITORIAL: Signs of divide

November 6, 2024
Of 29,069 registered voters in Coles County, only 21,695 (74.64%) voted for the 2024 Election according to the Coles County Clerk. Depicted is a population density map that shows the percentage of where voters are located. Mattoon and Charleston made up over half of the county's voters at 67.4% combined.

[Photo] Republicans sweep Coles County elections

News Staff
November 6, 2024
Senior forward Carys Greive (7) kicks the ball forward away from Abbie McHenry, left, toward a teammate during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

EIU junior midfielder Ella Onstott (20) and UT Martin sophomore midfielder Ella Rucka (18) battle for control of the ball during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Onstott had one shot on goal. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

[Photo] EIU women’s soccer’s path to the OVC Tournament

Gabe Newman, Sports Reporter
October 24, 2024
The Panthers lost 1-0 against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside field.

Sophomore midfielder Ella Rucka (18) attempts to get past junior midfielder Ella Onstott (20) during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

Freshman defender Colleen Bauer dribbles the ball up from the goal after an attempted goal during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

Senior forward Makayla Robinson (6) runs past junior midfielder Ella Onstott (20) and senior defender Morgan Rinker (18) during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Robinson had two shots. Onstott had one shot on goal. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

[Photo] Takeaways from EIU women's soccer homestand

October 23, 2024
Senior defender Morgan Rinker (18) prevents senior forward Nyeemah Prescod-Beckles (21) from advancing during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Prescod-Beckles had two shots and one shot on goal. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

Sophomore forward Alex Tetteh (22) gains control of the ball during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Tetteh had three shots and one shot on goal. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

[Photo] EIU women's soccer loses last home game of season

October 20, 2024
Sophomore forward Alex Tetteh (22) looks for a pass during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Tetteh had three shots and one shot on goal. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

Sophomore and freshman midfielders Brooklyn Green, left, and Ella Dwyer close in on sophomore forward Peyton Cook, middle, during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. The Panthers lost 1-0 against the Skyhawks.

Senior midfielder Izzy Patterson (2) and junior midfielder Avery Richardson (19) chase after the ball during the women's soccer game against the UT Martin Skyhawks Sunday at Lakeside Field. Patterson scored the only goal of the game winning 1-0 for the Skyhawks. Richardson had one shot on goal. Patterson had one shot, shot on goal and goal scored.

[Photo] EIU women’s soccer set for tournament play

Gabe Newman, Sports Reporter
October 29, 2024
Freshman Fabien Planchard backhands the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Freshman Gui Cauvilla throws the ball up to serve during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Senior Pieke Bouman forehands the ball over the net during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Freshman Ludolph Wiggett backhands the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Freshman Durante Trocado smashes the ball during a doubles match with Ludolph Wiggett for the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Ludolph Wiggett, freshman Freshman Ludolph Wiggett tries to hit the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

[Photo] Freshman tennis player shares COVID-19 experience in Australia in Q&A

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 18, 2024
Freshman Durante Trocado smashes the ball during the Eastern Illinois Fall Invitational Friday at the Darling Courts.

Drone shot over the Panther Trail and various Eastern sports fields.

[Photo] EIU athletic director responds to House v. NCAA preliminary approval

Aidan Cusack, Multimedia Editor
October 16, 2024
Eastern Illinois University football fans boo a referee's call during the first half of the homecoming game against the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks on Saturday afternoon.

Eastern's football run out onto the field before the start of the homecoming game against the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks on Saturday afternoon.

Eastern's 2024 homecoming was themed around westerns which had many people dressing up in cowboy hats, bandanas, an occasional inflatable horse or two and boots.

Members of the Panther Marching Band chant along to EIU pep songs in front of the Coles County Courthouse during the homecoming parade Saturday morning.

Hunter Mendoza, a junior accounting major, holds on to the mechanical bull as friends and fellow students cheer him on at the EIU tailgate outside the O'Brien Field Saturday afternoon. He said back home, he went to several rodeos so he had all the necessary apparel items for the western homecoming theme. Mendoza said he is very excited for his second homecoming.

Paul Nau, a graduate music student, juggles on a unicycle during the homecoming parade Saturday morning.

Members of the EIU Panther Color Guard twirl their flags in front of the Coles County Courthouse during the homecoming parade Saturday morning.

Players for both Eastern Illinois University and Southeast Missouri State University's teams scramble for a fumbled ball during EIU's homecoming at O'Brien Field against Southeast Missouri State University Saturday afternoon. The Panthers lost 34-27 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] Takeaways from EIU football thus far

Aidan Cusack and Payton Liggins
October 22, 2024
Sophomore running back MJ Flowers, is tackled by Southeast Missouri State University's defensive line after securing a first down for the EIU Panthers during Eastern's homecoming at O'Brien Field against Southeast Missouri State University Saturday afternoon. The Panthers lost 34-27 against the Redhawks.

Quarterback Pierce Holley (3), left, is sacked by Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks' defensive line during EIU's homecoming at O'Brien Field against Southeast Missouri State University Saturday afternoon. The Panthers lost 34-27 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] What happened at EIU's homecoming game?

October 5, 2024
Eastern's coaching staff directs players in between plays during EIU's homecoming at O'Brien Field against Southeast Missouri State University Saturday afternoon. The Panthers lost 34-27 against the Redhawks.

Wide receivers coach Tino Smith II instructs players after a play during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Former EIU wide receiver connects ties for new position

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
November 14, 2024
Quarterback Pierce Holley (3), left, is sacked by Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks' defensive line during EIU's homecoming at O'Brien Field against Southeast Missouri State University Saturday afternoon. The Panthers lost 34-27 against the Redhawks.

Tight ends coach Cole Hoover practices blocking players during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Tight end coach talks about history with EIU program

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
October 3, 2024
Redshirt junior Noah Howard (63) blocks defensive players during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Offensive lineman shares faith based pre-game routine in Q&A

Payton Liggins, Sports Reporter
September 19, 2024
Graduate quarterback Pierce Holley throws the ball forward during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Panthers prepare for first conference game at home

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 27, 2024
Offensive line coach John Cannova instructs sophomore offensive lineman Nic DiSanto (54) on proper form during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Offensive lineman shares confidence for 2024 season in Q&A

Payton Liggins, Sports Reporter
September 27, 2024
Offensive line coach John Cannova instructs players on proper form during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Sophomore offensive lineman Nic DiSanto (right) runs through drills during football practice at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

Redshirt junior offensive lineman Drew Wilder props the ball up during football practice drills at O'Brien Field Wednesday afternoon.

[Photo] Panthers prepare to defend Mid-American Classic trophy against Redbirds

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 19, 2024
Fighting Illini Kaden Feagin hurdles past the EIU senior defensive back Zay Gentry during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

THROUGH THE LENS: EIU loses to UofI 45-0

Rob Le Cates and Sia DeyKoontz
August 30, 2024
EIU football head football coach Chris Wilkerson confers with another member of the coaching staff during the team's season opener against the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

[Photo] Wilkerson hopes for growth against Northwestern

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 13, 2024
Eastern's coaching staff directs players in between plays during the team's home opener against University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at Memorial Stadium in Champaign Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 against the Fighting Illini.

[Photo] EIU football starts conference play against two worthy opponents

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 24, 2024
EIU graduate quarterback Pierce Holley looks for a pass during the team's season opener against the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana at Memorial Stadium Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 to the Fighting Illini.

EIU assistant coach Andrew Strobel directs players after the the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign score a touchdown during the team's season opener at Memorial Stadium Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 against the Fighting Illini.

[Photo] EIU football takeaways by the numbers

Zaria Flippin, Sports Editor
September 1, 2024
Illinois sophomore running back Kaden Feagin slips past the EIU defensive line during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

Illinois wide receiver Zakhari Franklin catches the ball in the end zone as EIU redshirt defensive back junior Moses Alexander attempts to intercept during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

Illinois junior quarterback Luke Altmyer scrambles evading past Eastern Illinois University defense during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 to the Fighting Illini.

Illinois junior quarterback Luke Altmyer successfully throws the ball past Eastern Illinois University's senior defensive lineman Jaron Hacha during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

Illinois junior outside linebacker Alec Bryant attempts to slip past the EIU defensive line during the team's season opener against the Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

EIU football head football coach Chris Wilkerson confers with another member of the coaching staff during the team's season opener against the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

Eastern's coaching staff directs players in between plays during the team's home opener against University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at Memorial Stadium in Champaign Thursday night. The Panthers were shut out 45-0 against the Fighting Illini.

Senior wide receiver DeAirious Smith drops a pass during the team's season opener against the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana at Memorial Stadium Thursday night.

[Photo] EIU football fumbles UofI

August 30, 2024
Students pile into Andrews Hall on Move In Day on a rainy Thursday afternoon. Families unloaded vehicles out of the door into the parking lot with the average elevator wait time being around five minutes.

THROUGH THE LENS: New students arrive for Move In Day

Rob Le Cates and Sia Deykoontz
August 16, 2024
From left Siobhan Bennett, Kieran Bennett-- a freshman digital media technologies major, Aidan Bennett, and David Bennett stand outside McKinney Hall on Move In Day Thursday. Twin brothers Kieran Bennett and Aidan Bennett are going to different schools and said being apart will be a big change. "When you live with someone for so long it becomes routine, and to break it is very scary," Aidan Bennett said.

Sisters Emma Beurskens, a sophomore nursing major, and Alli Beurskens, a freshman early childhood education major, shop for Eastern Illinois University merch at the University Bookstore in the MLK Jr. University Union on Thursday Move In Day. Emma Beurskens said she looks forward to the year and seeing her sister start college.

Parents Erica White (left) and Justin White (right) hug their son Gabe White (middle), a freshman accounting major, on Thursday outside the Doudna Fine Arts Center on Move In Day. The parents said it was bittersweet to see their son leave but are excited for him to start college.

Flamm Orchards hires around 130 to 150 workers per season to plant, tend to and process crops for thousands of families. Flamm Orchards is one of many farms in cooperation with Illinois’ statewide program to curb hunger and help stock food banks. Crops are sorted into categories where lesser-rated produce is donated to food banks.

THROUGH THE LENS: Small town standard

Rob Le Cates, Editor-in-Chief
April 23, 2024
Workers trim peach tree limbs Friday afternoon, April 12, 2024, at Flamm's Orchard in Cobden.

First son of the current owner of Flamm Orchard Henry Flamm, 1, eats a strawberry after reaching into the field-fresh fruit bucket at the opening day of strawberry season at Flamm Orchards Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Cobden. The farm has been running since the late 1880s and has seen seven generations of Flamms.

Workers unpack picked strawberries from the field to bring to the processing and sorting building on the season’s opening day Saturday, April 13 2024, at Flamm Orchards in Cobden.

Ava Anderson, 4, helps her pregnant mom Lauren Anderson load the strawberries into the trunk at the opening day of strawberry season at Flamm Orchards Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Cobden. The family lives around 50 minutes away and stopped by to pick up strawberries before going to a birthday party. Lauren Anderson said fresh fruit has been a craving for her.

As his grandma Janice Judd pays for the two flats of strawberries, her great grandson Walter Strandquist, 5, steals a bite at Flamm Orchard on the opening day of strawberry season Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Cobden. Judd said she has made it a habit to shop from Flamm’s every harvest season.

Manuel Hernandez Nicholas trims peach tree limbs at Flamm's Orchard Friday, April 12, 2024, in Cobden. Hernandez Nicholas has worked at Flamm's for 14 years.

Around 200 people flocked to Flamm Orchards in Cobden before noon for the first day of strawberry season Saturday, April 13, 2024. The farm sells a variety of strawberry-flavored foods including jams and pastries. They also sell pickled vegetables, sauces, spreads and apparel.

Flamm Orchards, in Cobden, is home to around 200,000 strawberry plants. Fans of the field-to-table crop say Flamm’s strawberries are much sweeter and juicier than any store bought one. Flamm Orchards starts their strawberry plants two weeks earlier than other farms.

One of the managers, Juan Vicente, follows the worker van to the strawberry fields with his pickup truck on the first day of strawberry season at Flamm Orchards in Cobden, Illinois, Saturday morning, April 13, 2024. Vicente has worked at Flamms since he was 15 around 40 years ago.

From right, Shay Edmond, a senior sociology major, and Brianna Hull-Dennis, a senior political science major, watch the solar eclipse with friends Monday afternoon at the campus observatory. Edmond said the turnout made the viewing much more exciting.

[Photo] Solar eclipse assembles community, builds friendships

Cam'ron Hardy, News Editor
April 9, 2024
Micah Cherry, a junior criminology/criminal justice major, tests his solar eclipse glasses ten minutes before the eclipse Monday afternoon at the campus observatory.

Brooklyn Konieczki, a junior psychology major, looks up at the solar eclipse Monday afternoon at the campus' observatory.

Brooklyn Konieczki, a junior psychology major, looks up at the solar eclipse Monday afternoon at the campus' observatory.

Freshman libero/defensive specialist Masyn Navarro imitates riding a bike during a challenge call during the volleyball game against Morehead State Thursday evening at Lantz Arena.

[Photo] Communication makes the difference, student athletes said

Chloe Proffitt, Sports Reporter
April 11, 2024
During high school, Charlie Burtell realized he started following a negative path and wanted to make a change. He begged his mom to help him enlist in the National Guard when he was 17 and she supported him. Joining the military for him was an escape and he is very proud of his decision to turn his life around.

Jemma Allen, a junior vocal performance and music education major, instructs Madison More, 8, a student at Carl Sandburg Elementary School, on which notes to play on the piano in a practice room in the basement of the Doudna Fine Arts Center Thursday.

[Photo] Rigorous course load prepares EIU music student for graduation

April 5, 2024
Jemma Allen, a junior vocal performance and music education major, instructs Madison More, 8, a student at Carl Sandburg Elementary School, on which notes to play on the piano in a practice room in the basement of the Doudna Fine Arts Center Thursday.

Jemma Allen, a junior vocal performance and music education major, teaches five K-12 students who play guitar or piano.The youngest students they have are 8 years old and then 8th grade.

Jennifer Buchter, a special education professor, gets out of the water during the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge Sunday.

THROUGH THE LENS: Students, faculty get bold, cold

Rob Le Cates, Editor-in-Chief
February 26, 2024
Old Main Gates

AFSCME contract finalized, awaits trustees approval

Rob Le Cates, Editor-in-Chief
February 26, 2024
Provost Ryan Hendrickson celebrates after jumping into the pool of water during the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge Sunday evening.

[Photo] Polar Plunge fundraises for Special Olympics

February 27, 2024
Members of the football team get out of the water during the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge Sunday evening.

Four communication disorder graduate students jump into the water during the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge Sunday.

Provost Ryan Hendrickson opens up the Special Olympics' Polar Plunge Sunday evening.

Taris Thornton (25), a junior forward, scramble for a loose ball while being pressured by Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks during the women's basketball game Thursday evening at Groniger Arena. Thornton scored 10 points and had 2 rebounds. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] Panthers face key test this week

Luther Yoder, Assistant Sports Editor
February 19, 2024
Tiny Lewis (middle), a sophomore guard, scramble for a loose ball while being pressured by Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks Alecia Doyle (left), a sophomore guard, and Jaliyah Green (right), a junior guard during the women's basketball game Thursday evening at Groniger Arena. Lewis scored 11 points and had 5 rebounds. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

Players from Southeast Missouri State University and Eastern scramble for a loose ball during the women's basketball game Thursday evening at Groniger Arena. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] Eastern gets a dominant win over SEMO

February 15, 2024
Sophomore guard Ellie Buzzelle dribbles the ball while looking for a pass during the women's basketball game against the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks Thursday evening at Groniger Arena. Buzzelle scored 8 points and had 4 rebounds. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] EIU to face Tennessee State in the OVC tournament

Aidan Cusack, Sports Reporter
March 7, 2024
Redshirt freshman forward Sydney-James Desroches looks for a pass while being pressured into a corner during the women's basketball game against the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks Thursday evening at Groniger Arenal. Desroches scored 9 points and had 6 rebounds. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

Junior guard Miah Monahan dribbles the ball while looking for a pass during the women's basketball game against the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks Thursday evening at Groniger Arena. Monahan scored 6 points and had 7 assists. The Panthers won 72-52 against the Redhawks.

[Photo] Panthers win puts them in second in the OVC

Luther Yoder, Assistant Sports Editor
February 17, 2024
From left, Student Government's Secretary Taylor Cloud, a sophomore communication disorders sciences major, Speaker of the Senate Madison Veatch, a junior political science major, Student Body Executive Vice President August Biernbaum, a senior political science major, and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs Carlos Rodriguez, a sophomore psychology major, open Wednesday night's Student Government meeting in the Arcola Tuscola Room.

From right Mandy Transon, a senior early childhood special education major, locks hands with Rachel Wisner, a sophomore accounting major, at the end of their duet "The Other Side" from "The Greatest Showman" by Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron during the second dress rehearsal Wednesday at The Theatre at the Doudna Fine Arts Center. The two codirected the show and came up with the show's theme "Time of our Lives" because Transon is graduating and has had the time of her life and Wisner is just now starting to have the time of her life.

[Photo] EIU dancers present “Time of Our Lives”

Alli Hausman, Copy Chief
February 10, 2024
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