Oct. 12, 2016 by The Wichitan and Wai Kun

TRICK or TREAT Oct. 12, 2016 | Midwestern State University | thewichitan.com | Your Campus. Your News. | Vol. 81 No. 7

Clown sightings — true or false — scare students KELSEY PURCELL REPORTER

H PHOTO COURTESY OF GREEN/EPSTEIN PRODUCTIONS

Pennywise the Clown from the Stephen King’s It.

alloween came early this year, but instead of the usual good fun the holiday normally brings, this spooky season has had a few more tricks than treats. Across the nation, clown sightings have been reported starting in late August in South Carolina, and spreading to at least 39 other states, including Texas. Michael Vandehey, psychology professor, said he believes the rapid spread of the clown sightings have been largely caused by media coverage.

“You have the upcoming remake of Stephen King’s It, so what we have is something that was an interesting story. These clowns were [scaring people] in South Carolina, it makes national news, and then you have copycats,” Vandehey said. “These things become popularized, and then individuals copycat them.” However, Vandehey said he believes people are not only copying the clowns for attention, but also making false reports for attention. “It’s popular to say you have seen them,” Vandehey said. “I suspect if there had been no media exposure to the South Carolina reports, we would not be having a clown craze at all.” Most of the clown sightings have been reported to be false, yet the talk of clown sightings continues. There have been rumors that clowns have been spotted on campus. “On the evening of Monday Oct. 3, [the police station] had two different callers at two different times report to us something clown related,” Patrick Coggins, chief of police, said. “We were told by both callers that they were told by someone else that two people wearing clown costumes were seen walking in the area towards campus. But, none of what we were called about had any allegation of criminal behavior.” However, Coggins said police searches for evidence of the clowns has not been found. “We have not been able to locate anybody wearing clown gear on campus, and we have not spoken to anybody who has given us a first hand report that they have seen clowns,” Coggins said. Regardless, the rumors, be they true or not, have scared some students. “I, personally, am afraid of clowns, and take this matter seriously,” Haylee Fowler, English sophomore, said. “If I saw a clown on campus, I would be terrified.” According to Coggins, causing this type of fear in students could result in punishment. “If the intent of a person is to cause fear to somebody, and it’s done in a harassing manner, depending

on the circumstances, it could rise to the level of criminal,” Coggins said. Coggins also said if the offender is a student, there are other rules in regards to what can and cannot be done to other students. “Here on campus, students are held to the Code of Student Life, which is a disciplinary code for students, and that some behavior that causes fear and anxiety and intimidation towards other students could also be a violation of student code, so there is a potential for discipline there,” Coggins said. Aside from punishments to the offender, Vandehey said there is a potential for psychological damage to be done to people who have coulrophobia, the fear of clowns. “So what a phobia is, it’s a stimulus that produces an intense fear or an intense anxiety response. So what’s happening is individuals are having this process, and it’s being cued by a clown,” Vandehey said. Vandehey said he believes part of the reason for this fear of clowns is due to how some clowns are depicted in movies, amoung other MICHAEL VANDEHEY things. PSYCHOLOGY PROFESSOR “There are images in our culture where clowns are scary; they have pointed teeth, they have wicked eyes, so that also supports the phobia because instead of clowns being seen as fun, they’re being seen as evil and demonic.” Fowler agreed. “They’re really creepy, and I’ve been scared by clowns before, so it’s only heightened the fear I have,” Fowler said. “Their mannerisms don’t make them seem ‘friendly’ or anything like they say they’re supposed to be; it just makes them seem fake and very disturbing.” However, not everyone is scared by these clown sightings. “Honestly, I think the whole clown situation is a joke. I wouldn’t say I’m surprised by the fact that it has gotten this far, but, still, it’s a little bit too much,” Hector Hernandez,

“I suspect if there had been no media exposure to the South Carolina reports, we would not be having a clown craze at all.”

see CLOWN pg. 4

2 | Oct. 12, 2016 |

Behind the badge

n today’s s o c i e t y, the citizens of the United States of America, face a number of issues that Garrett will affect us Hutchinson beyond the election. One of the biggest issues today is racial injustice and racially motivated hatred regarding police incidents around the U.S. I am part-black and ex-law enforcement. I have a different view than just seeing one side or the other. I am coming from a perspective that is able to relate to both sides and without bias. I will say that I am a firm believer in #alllivesmatter if I am forced to pick a side. Regardless of the negative connotations, we are all people deserving of life, regardless of the color of our skin. Police officers are normal people, who go to work to provide for their families, and try to make ends meet to put their kids through college or even pay their mortgage. I know this because I worked in law enforcement for three and a half years, and know the kind of scrutiny officers go through and sacrifices they make when it comes to their families. I know of the countless birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and vacations I missed because I had to work to provide for that same family. Police officers risk their

CORRECTIONS: OCT. 12 • In ‘Title IX continues women’s fight for gender equality’ Morgan Hannon was wrongly identified as Morgan Hannn, and was credited by Izziel latour but is a file photo by Kayla White. • In ‘First SGA meeting held yesterday,’ Patrick Coggins was misidentified as e Coggins.

lives each day to ensure that the criminals are at bay and so law-abiding citizens can live their lives free of fear and worry of what may come in the night. My wife, many nights, watched me walk out the door not knowing if I would return in the morning, fearing that the “job” would leave her a widower with a 4-yearold to take care of. That I would be another story she would share with my daughter at night, explaining why daddy couldn’t be there. As I write this, I think about the fallen officers who have died in the line of duty. The ultimate sacrifice they made by choosing to give their lives for complete strangers and asking for nothing in return. These same men and women, on whom the nation is performing an all out assault, are the same men and women who are husbands, wives, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, sons and daughters. The same men and women who will miss out on holiday celebrations, anniversaries, birthdays or even the chance to walk their daughter down the aisle. The pain that their family, friends and fellow brothers and sister are going through is indescribable. Being a law enforcement officer is not just a job it is a calling. A call that a select few brave men and women answer. Garrett Hutchinson is a mass communication junior.

If attacked by a clown, go for the juggler

hen I see people wearing masks, it’s either at a costume party or doing something they shouldn’t. For someone to wear a mask, hide their identity and act in a way that will hinder others is purely shameful. I don’t understand the thought process of people who are eager to dress up as Michelle clowns. First of all, they’re ugly, second, Dickey they’re creepy and third, clowns have been related in a chain of crimes. Even if someone is a good person, he will be associated with the negativity that comes along with clowns no matter what his intentions are. People who around with a mask on, have weapons or aggressively approach people, even if it’s just a joke, I have no sympathy for anything that happens to them. Go watch videos of people getting scared and watch the victims reaction. The typical reaction is one of two ways: they either scream, curl up in a ball and start crying, or like me, they accidentally punch their friend in the face. There are multiple consequences to being stupid

enough to dress up as a clown: arrest, assault and murder. A clown who approaches and scares the wrong person could get shot, this is Texas after all. Given the tension between average citizens and the police in America and the increasing murder rates compared to last year, why in the world would people dress up as a murderous clown? Creepy clowns are walking around at night often with weapon in. A clown could be walking around with a nerf sword and people would still think it was a weapon. That’s still a crime people have been convicted for. There are stories about children nearly getting kidnapped, clowns hiding in the shadows, following people, committing crimes, and the cops are actually catching these people. Quit all the trouble and put the clown costume away. If students are determined to dress in a mask on a Tuesday, try to be more like the guy who dresses up as Spider-Man and passes out candy on campus. That’s what we really need more of. Michelle Dicey is a mass communication junior.

But first, I need my morning coffee

ust let me have my coffee how I want it. Every morning I get up, wash my face and brush my teeth. Occasionally I will have a little something for breakfast and then rush out the door. My day has not even started yet and it is already chaotic. The life of a typical college student. The first thing I look forward to before Yareli rushing to class is rushing to get a cup of Lora coffee. Moffett Library’s café is my first stop before class. It never fails that every time I walk in, there is a long line of people. “Good morning!” I always feel the need to tell that to the person that is taking my order, because majority of the people that have been waiting in line look mad. Then again, the time that I go into the café, it’s early in the morning. I almost always order the same thing, a tall coffee. I’m plain and simple. I pour the hot coffee into my cup and fix

wichitan

the

Vol. 81 | No. 7

Midwestern State University Fain Fine Arts Bldg., Room B103 3410 Taft Blvd. Box 14 Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 (940) 397-4704 • wichitan@mwsu.edu thewichitan.com • @wichitanonline

EDITOR: Kara McIntyre DESIGN EDITOR: Justin Marquart PHOTOGRAPHERS: Dewey Cooper, Naomi Skinner, Miranda Townson, Jeannette Perry

ADVISER: Bradley Wilson ISSUE STAFF: Michelle Dickey, Yareli Lora,

Dewey Cooper, Caleb Sneath, Orlando Fierro, Emily Simmons, Dylan Hall, Samantha Locke, Jeannette Perry, Jeromy Stacy, Kelsey Purcell, Garrett Hutchinsom, John Oleon

it up just how I like it. I can’t forget my straw to put in my coffee. Now, I’m ready for the day. “Why did you just do that?” I look over and a complete stranger is asking why I just put a straw in my coffee. I replied by telling him, “It’s just habit I guess.” I continue with my day by walking to Fain. On the way to class I run into some friends. “Why do you keep putting a straw in your coffee weirdo?” Oh good morning to you too. I usually disregard their comments because I’m just trying to enjoy my coffee at this point. Finally, I get to my first class. My professor begins to look at me funny. Once again, I get asked why I have a straw in my coffee. This is a continuous cycle. I always get asked why I use a straw with my coffee. Can I just enjoy my coffee? It’s really not that uncommon for people to drink hot coffee with a straw. After all, I can’t be the only person on campus that does this. Yareli Lora is a Spanish junior.

Copyright ©2016. The Wichitan is a member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association and the Associated Collegiate Press. The Wichitan reserves the right to edit any material submitted for publication. Opinions expressed in The Wichitan do not necessarily reflect those of the students, staff, faculty, administration or Board of Regents of Midwestern State University. The Wichitan welcomes letters of opinion from students, faculty and staff submitted by the Friday before intended publication. Letters should be brief (250 words or fewer) and without abusive language or personal attacks. Letters must be typed and signed by the writer and include a email address, telephone number and address.

| Oct. 12, 2016 | 3

ALUMNI ON NOVEMBER BALLOT

MSU graduates run for Wichita Falls mayoral seat added his other plan. “I’m pushing hard for downtown,” Ingle said. “If we don’t have downtown we don’t have our town.” Santellana is more focused on existing relationships with MSU, Vernon College, Sheppard Air Force Base and United Regional. “We need to solidify those relationships,” Santellana said. As for economic growth after the recession and drought Ingle mentioned that everyone goes through tough times, but it shouldn’t stop you from completing your plan. Santellana added “we’re in it to win it with Sheppard.” Noting that his campaign supports Sheppard Air Force Base 100 percent. Ingle said, “Sheppard is my home. We have to keep Sheppard as strong as we can and as viable as we can. As mayor I think I could be a very credible voice for them.”

DEWEY COOPER REPORTER

he signs all over Wichita Falls are indicative of the season. Election season. Red, white and blue. Every two years, Wichita Falls fills up with signs as candidates for mayor and the six city council seats vie for election or reelection. In an effort to increase voter turnout in the local election, officials moved it, this year for the first time, to coincide with the fall national election. Current city councilmen, Tim Ingle and Stephen Santellana, are the mayoral candidates in this election cycle and also Midwestern State graduates.

MIDWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Ingle graduated from MSU with a masters of business administration in 2013, and Santellana graduated in 1997 with a double major in political science and criminal justice. “All the professors are what really impressed me the most,” Ingle said. Santellana said he feels a strong pride for the university. “We’re going to, hopefully, paint this town maroon,” Santellana said. “We have been blessed to have close relations with MSU.” According to Ingle, he has already done a lot for MSU. “I pushed very hard for [the City Council] to do a $300,000 forgivable loan to [MSU] for lighting of women’s soccer and softball fields,” Ingle said. Santellana wants strong relationships with MSU. “Shipley wants to see a strong city and MSU relationship,” Santellana said. “We want to continue growth of MSU.”

PHOTO BY DEWEY COOPER | THE WICHITAN

Tim Ingle, city councilman, attends a City Council meeting Oct. 4.

Stephen Santellana, city councilman, attends a City Council meeting Oct. 4.

Both candidates had something to say to students. “Engross yourself in this campus,” Santellana said. “If I didn’t have to grow up I would still be a student.” Ingle added more. “Enjoy your time as a student,” Ingle said. “Because you don’t get it when you graduate, and have an understand of the freedoms that you have in America that not many others have in the world.”

growth,” Ingle said. “There’s been projects and businesses brought in, but no vision.” Santellana agrees with Ingle. “We have to get economic growth going,” Santellana said. “Without economic growth there’s not a whole lot more we can do. We need to be full steam ahead on economic growth.” Ingle mentioned that the city council is widening its focus on the workforce in Wichita Falls. “We’re finding out that we were focused on a very small area, and we neglected the other areas, Ingle said. “The reason we couldn’t get the other economic areas growing is because our workforce wasn’t creating it.” Other than widening the workforce, Ingle

WICHITA FALLS AND SHEPPARD AFB Both candidates are hoping for economic development for Wichita Falls. “There hasn’t been a lot of economic

CITY COUNCIL

“The biggest thing I have done is challenge the staff for a long term vision,” Ingle said. “We’re doing good at managing, but we need to lead long term.” Santellana reminisced about his most notable duty as a city councilman. “I was heading out of town and I got a phone call,” Santellana said. “We went from a drought to a flood. This was a big situation.” Santellana continued that dealing with last years flood put a different perspective on being a public servant. “Right then and there you realize you’re not just helping vote on public policy,” Santellana said. “You have a direct effect on peoples lives and their welfare.”

see ALUMNI pg. 4

4 | Oct. 12, 2016 | from ALUMNI pg. 3

Ingle described his most recent accomplishments as a city councilman. “Just recently, a young couple was living here, and the meter reader was estimating their reading,” Ingle said. “The city wouldn’t admit that they wouldn’t do their job.” After the mistakes were found the couple was charged. Ingle helped change the policy so if the city goes more than 90 days, an estimated three readings, the city cannot charge those affected.

MAYORAL RUN

Santellana said that for his running as mayor its just a “natural progression in [his] community involvement.” As for voting Ingle said, “When you walk in and want to know who to push it comes down to: who has served; who has led; who has made effective change; who is willing to fight for you; and will fight for the city. When you vote for me you’re voting for somebody, that for six years, has pushed and influenced where [the city] is at now. Santellana has the same attitude. “You want somebody that’s going to be progressive,” Santellana added. “If you’re a millennial in this town, I’m your be a of shining bright hope. We’re on the cusp of greatness.”

AROUND CAMPUS

“It’s wonderful for Wichita Falls and Midwestern,” Terry Patton, dean of Dillard College and Business Administration, said. “The interaction between Midwestern and this community has always been strong and I think this is another evidence of that.” Other faculty feel the same. Samuel Watson, dean of Prothro-Yeager College of Humanities and Social sciences, said he is “Very proud” and he believes that “their education here has prepared them well for public service.”

Students that have lived here their whole life are as equally excited as faculty. “It’s empowering because it gives students at MSU the motivation to engage into their community and make a real difference,” Taylor McCreary, business management freshman, said. Others agree. “Having been brought up in this community I know how strong MSU impacts our city,” Kaelen Dohme, nursing freshman, said. “These mayoral candidates are going to be well equipped for the position.”

“When you walk in and want to know who to push it comes down to: who has served; who has led; who has made effective change; who is willing to fight for you; and will fight for the city. When you vote for me you’re voting for somebody, that for six years, has pushed and influenced where [the city] is at now.” TIM INGLE MSU ALUMN AND MAYORAL CANDIDATE

from CLOWN pg. 1

respiratory therapy junior, said. Austan Davis, marketing sophomore, agreed. “I think it’s just some bit for attention. It’ll hash over soon,” Davis said. Many people believe that those who dress as clowns, are mostly doing it for attention. “People may be doing it to be funny, they may be doing it to be cool, they may be doing it because it’s currently popular in the media, they may be doing it because they identify with that character,” Vandehey said. After the murder of a man dressed in a clown outfit in Newark, NJ on Oct. 4, people said they feel that what happened should caution others from joining in on the clown scarings. “Wearing a costume, in and of itself, is not necessarily a criminal offense. A lot of it depends on behavior and what that person does, the actions of that person. People need to be aware, though, that nowadays, with all that’s going on in the nation right now, people tend to be on edge, and people are reactive,” Coggins said. Additionally, concealed carry was implemented on campus in August, something that Coggins said he worries might be another component to the clown hysteria. “We now have concealed carry on campus, and that causes me concern because if I do have people out here causing fear and anxiety intentionally, I cannot guarantee how a concealed handgun license holder may become very scared and react more than he or she wishes to, and that could be a bad situation for everybody concerned. That

is another reason not to engage in this type of behavior,” Coggins said. Davis said he believes concealed carry is a good thing to have in a time like this because there have been some violent acts committed by those dressed in clown outfits. “Concealed carry keeps everyone more safe. Responsible men and women who do carry help regulate and protect,” Davis said. Hernandez agreed, but said he will not be concerned until the rumors are validated. “Based on the fact that we have concealed carry, I don’t see why a clown would want to attack someone in the state of Texas now. It’s just not safe.,” Hernandez said. “Until I see clowns on campus, I don’t think I’ll truly believe the rumors.” But Hernandez said if he does encounter a violent clown, he will take necessary measures. “I would fight back if a clown was attacking me,” Hernandez said. The university does allow self-defense within certain measures. “Issues of self-defense are all specified in the penal code. In general, people are allowed to protect themselves if they feel like they are in fear,” Coggins said. For now, Vandehey said he believes that the rumors are simply rumors, and in time, the clown sightings will go away. “It’s complex. It’s a fad. It will come and go, and if you live long enough, you’ll see it again,” Vandehey said.

| Oct. 12, 2016 | 5

Shai Wosner, pianist, and Jennifer Koh, violinist, will be peforming at MSU Oct. 13.

Yeezy Boost 350, $200 retail price.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY BRIANNA SHEEN | THE WICHITAN

Jennifer Koh and Shai Wosner to perform for Music Series

Sneakerhead, a title held J with pride by some people

EMILY SIMMONS REPORTER

ORLANDO FIERRO REPORTER

eing a sneakerhead, or someone who collects sneakers and streetwear fashion, is a title some students hold with pride and is often the foundation of lifelong friendships. On June 29, the ranks of this underground culture were rocked when Kanye West, a prominent figure in street fashion, released his Yeezy line — a shoe collaboration with Adidas. This release sparked the unprecedented rise of Adidas among sneakerheads, which is a market that was traditionally dominated by the Air Jordans and SBs, which is a division of Nike. Afolabi Adereti, mechanical engineering junior, said, “Yeezys are fresh.” Adereti, who considers himself an open sneakerhead, said he has tried on these highly coveted sneakers and loved the feel of the boost technology, which is said to be one of the most comfortable shoe technologies on the market according to some sneaker websites. Courtney Kurr, exercise physiology sophomore, said, “I think they are so cool they are just too expensive. Kanye could definitely find a way to cut the cost of the shoe.” “I think they are ridiculously overpriced. If they were less expensive and had better support then I would purchase a pair,” Avery Queen, biology junior, said. “Kanye, if you’re listening, no one likes you and your shoes are too expensive.”

Kanye West is no stranger to controversy — he is known to have public outbursts, such as interrupting Taylor Swift at the 2009 Video Music Awards. West also released an album titled Yeezus, in which he compares himself to Jesus Christ, sparking controversy among the religious community. Students like Romellow Walker, theater sophomore who used to be an active sneakerhead, brandished his red and black Air Jordans as he discussed his opinion on Yeezys. “Kanye needs to keep them limited; if he does he is a genius,” Walker said. “But they are not all that special. I prefer Nike SBs and Jordans. They are just not worth the hype.” Still, sneakerheads like Javin Kilgo, kinesiology junior, feel West is doing something right. “Them thang’s fire, they really fit my swag,” Kilgo said. Hope of West’s dream of “Yeezys for everyone” is possibly on the horizon. According to a tweet posted by West on March 8, “Adidas is making a million Yeezys this year, opening up new factories…” However, for the foreseeable future, the limited nature of the sneaker combined with the hype created by a figure like West the brand name Yeezy will continue to hold weight in the collection community. Especially as this community becomes more and more mainstream.

ennifer Koh, violinist, and Shai Wosner, pianist, will perform as part of the Music Series this Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in Akin Auditorium. “This concert gives both the community and students an opportunity to hear artists of a higher caliber,” Andrew Allen, assistant professor of music, said. The artists performing are examples of this higher musical standard. Koh has extensive experience and has performed across the globe. She has worked with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, Czech Philharmonic, and the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, among others. “Jennifer Koh is one of the finest violin players in the world right now, and I think the audience will be thrilled by her playing,” Allen said. Koh is also an advocate of music education for children, and her Music Messenger program reaches out to classrooms across the United States. “I’m really excited to see and hear these musicians perform,” Timothy Goff, music education freshman, said. Shai Wosner will accompany

Koh on piano. Wosner has also made a name for himself across the world and has worked with orchestras in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. Wosner has also performed with the Barcelona Symphony and Vienna Philharmonic in Europe. “The Music Series concerts allow the community to support international artists,” Allen said. Both Koh and Wosner possess a broad repertoire, and are interested in finding connections between music from different eras, and combine classical works with modern music. They will be playing pieces by Mozart, Beethoven, Debussy, and Fauré. “I’m looking forward to hearing artists of their skill level perform,” Lindsey Odom, music education sophomore, said. The Music Series at Akin is sponsored by the Perkins-Prothro Foundation and Joe and Dale Prothro and all proceeds from the concert support the arts program at MSU. The concert is open to all students and members of the community. “The audience will be enlightened and have their hearts and minds changed after being exposed to this quality of music,” Allen said.

6 | Oct. 12, 2016 |

Miss Caribfest: ‘I had sleepless nights’ DYLAN HALL REPORTER

amilah Tobin isn’t new to performing in public. On her native island of St.Kitts, she likes singing and dancing to soca and dancehall music, so when the judges named her Miss Caribfest - after a month of practice and with her inate perseverance, she wasn’t too surprised. “I just entered to try something new and to add to my college experience,” Tobin, a freshman in mass communication, said. According to Tobin, the competition was very difficult and she had to work very hard to succeed but in the end her efforts, she said, were all worth it. “It was a very difficult competition, hard work and dedication pays off, I was skeptical at first but I just kept working hard and eventually I got rewarded,” Tobin said. Tobin said she believes there is much more to her triumph than meets the eye and she highlighted the intense impact the competition had on her for the entire month. “Some nights I got frustrated because sometimes things didn’t go as planned. I had to call home to get some encouragement sometimes. I had sleepless nights and even got sick through preparations. It was a really rough month,” Tobin said. To have someone to look up to became increasingly imperative for Tobin and she credits much of her success to her mother, whom she believes represents true strength. “I always look up to my mother, she is really strong, I admire her. Especially now that she is sick and still providing such great support for me,” Tobin said.

PHOTO BY NAOMI SKINNER | THE WICHITAN

Kamilah Tobin named queen at the Miss Carib Fest Queen Show on Oct. 1 Tobin addressed the smooth, easy transition she had coming into the school as another aspect that helped her achieve success and feel comfortable in her new surroundings. “I chose MSU because it was one of the cheaper options and very diverse. It’s great here, I settled in very quickly and I’ve easily made many friends from the USA,” Tobin said. Tobin said she plans to maximize the possibilities of her mass communication degree and take full advantage of the opportunities Texas offers her. “I’ve learned a lot about the culture up here. I have a great appreciation for it, eventually I want to use my mass communication degree to enter a career in public relations,” Tobin said. Tobin said she believes perseverance is the key to success and that with the right attitude, anyone can succeed. “I would like to encourage every individual to look for something positive in each day even if some days they have to look extremely hard to find that positive aspect,” Tobin said.

Working for the mouse SAMANTHA LOCKE REPORTER

n the heart of Central Florida, magic, mice, Jedis, castles and princesses exist. Here, working in a place with fireworks every night, where stormtroopers walk around without question, and where working for a mouse is normal. The Disney College Program is an internship where college students can build a resume and gain work experience. Miranda Townson, marketing senior, is taking advantage of this internship and spending her semester working at the “Happiest Place on Earth.” “I was searching for summer internships and found the Disney College Program online but then realized it was for a full semester but I’m so glad that I applied,” Townson said. “I was a little worried when I applied because about 50,000 students apply for the program and only about 4,000 get accepted. Even before I was accepted I was making plans for when I would be in Orlando.” There are a variety of different “roles” that a cast member can have. These include merchandise, quick service food and beverage, custodial, attractions, character attendant, vacation planner, character performer, photo pass photographer, or lifeguard. After getting accepted, each cast member is assigned a role. “I really wanted merchandise as my role because that’s how MSU is letting me get the internship and independent study credit. If I had a different role I wouldn’t have been able to get the credits,” Townson said. Before college interns can officially become cast members, they have to go through casting. “Casting was really quick,” Townson said. “We just went in and found out our work location but I already knew mine so it wasn’t very interesting. Other than that we just filled out paperwork.” The Disney College Program interns are each assigned to a specific work location once they arrive at their housing check-in. Participants may be chosen to work at a resort, one of the theme parks, a water park, or Disney Springs. “My location is Epcot at towers which are Disney Traders and Ports of Entry right before the World Showcase,” Townson said. “I didn’t really

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY MIRANDA TOWNSON

Miranda Townson, marketing senior, stands in costume at her job as a Disney cast member. want to work at Epcot because I didn’t know much about the shops before coming, but I did want to be placed in a park.” Some roles allow cast members to pick up shifts at locations other than their home location, as long as they require the same training. Working and picking up shifts in multiple locations also means having to wear multiple costumes. “I love them,” Townson said. “It’s like getting to play dress up for Halloween 24/7 and the more ridiculous the better. So far my favorite is the Fantasyland dress because I feel like a princess.” Working in merchandise has its perks. The one thing that only merchandise cast members get to do is “Pin Trade” with guests. Pin trading was introduced to Disney World in 1999 and it became wildly popular. Merchandise cast members each wear a lanyard around their necks and guests can come up to them and trade pins. “It’s a cult,” Townson said. “I never knew about it until I got her and I’m obsessed. I become overly attached to some pins and don’t want to trade

them away. It’s really cool seeing the guest’s faces light up when they find a pin they’ve been looking for on my lanyard.” The Disney College Program also offers special classes that participants can take. These classes are usually based around Disney. One of the classes is called Disney Heritage where students learn about Walt Disney before Mickey and through the creation of Disneyland and Disney World. “The hospitality class is cool because we have guest speakers from the parks come in. The marketing class we get to learn about Disney’s process of how they market themselves, said Townson. Next week we get to go to the Polynesian Resort and go behind the scenes. I’m really excited.” Being a cast member at Disney World has its perks, including free admission to all of the parks. Townson goes to the parks as a guest as much as she can, especially on her days off. “I go play in the parks all the time. My favorite park is Magic Kingdom but I hate how much of a struggle it can be to get into the park,” Townson said. “My favorite rides are Expedition Everest, Tower of Terror, and Space Mountain.” There are certain things that all cast members are required to do while working. The “Disney Point” is probably the most famous. All cast members are required to point with two fingers or their whole hand when giving directions because in some cultures pointing with one finger is considered rude. “I’m brainwashed,” Townson said. “I do the Disney Point all the time, even off stage and everyone makes fun of me for it.” Townson hopes that her Disney journey doesn’t end here. “For me the Disney College Program is a stepping stone to getting to where I want to be in life,” Townson said. “I would love to work for Disney in the long run.” For college students who love magic, fantasy, and Mickey Mouse, the Disney College Program is an amazing way to begin a career. “I would recommend this program to others,” Townson said. “There’s just so many perks to it and it truly is an experience of a lifetime. I’m a totally different person because if it already.”

| Oct. 12, 2016 | 7

PHOTO BY IZZIEL LATOUR | THE WICHITAN

Delaine O’Connell, nursing freshman and member of Chi Omega, playing flag football on Oct. 11. Chi Omega beat Gamma Phi Beta 32-20.

Rivalry reaches its peak JOHN OLEON REPORTER

“S

weep!” Faith Quick, nursing senior, said after Sigma Kappa’s 18-13 flag football win over rival team Chi Omega on Oct. 4. Taylor Courtney, mass communication senior and Sigma Kappa quarterback, put the team on her back and carried them to the win. “Taylor Football,” as some call her, ran in two touchdowns, one to put them ahead late in the fourth quarter. “Taylor Football is back,” Courtney said. Chi Omega hopped out to an early two-touchdown lead. Led by solid offensive drives and great defense, they held Sigma Kappa scoreless and were poised to get the win this year. The history of the Chi Omega versus Sigma Kappa rivalry goes back for years, but this year it was even greater. A few weeks ago, the two sororities got into a heated Twitter fight over who got the better pledge class. Multiple girls from each sorority tweeted “sweep,” leading to many arguments. That just made this game that much more significant and heated for both sides. With Sigma Kappa down 13-0 at the start of the second half, “Taylor Football” led a 55-yard drive capped off with a 20-yard pass to marketing junior Madison Salvatore.

“It changed the whole momentum of the game, that really gave us confidence to move forward and win the game. This is a huge game for both sides and the fact that we pulled out the win today feels great,” Salvatore said. Mechanical engineering senior and Chi Omega coach Romeo Botelua stayed positive after the loss. “What a game, hard fought, both teams played well, much love for both sides, hopefully we’ll see them in playoffs,” Botelua said. The game attracted a huge crowd with it being promoted as early as the beginning of September when fraternity members were placing bets on which team would win. Nursing senior Valentine Atuchukwu, who lost his bet on Chi Omega, continued to support his girls. “They are a great who take so much passion in this game, I got a lot of love for both sides and I’m just glad it was a good game. I don’t mind losing my money with that performance,” Atuchukwu said. Each team played hard and had a passion to win the game. Through it all, Sigma Kappa came out on top, but who knows who will win next time. Chi Omega has a powerhouse team and no one would be surprised to see them pull out the win.

Alumni Kim Ballard and Gina Ross at the empty bowls charity event on Oct. 11.

PHOTOS BY IZZIEL LATOUR | THE WICHITAN

Empty Bowls are full of hope JEROMY STACY REPORTER

he fifth annual Empty Bowls event, held at the Wichita Falls Museum of Art, does more than just raise money for the Wichita Falls Area Food Bank. Bob Barrow, artist and volunteer at the event, said, “It’s a great city event and it is going to help people.” Forty students and non students made clay bowls to give away to attendees who made a donation. Artists who enter bowls into the gallery can donate half or all of the money their pieces sell for. Those artists are also required to make three more bowls for a silent auction. A total of 1,050 bowls were displayed at the event. “One in five people in Wichita Falls are food insecure,” Steve Hilton, associate professor of art and faculty resident at Legacy, said. In past years, the event has raised anywhere from $65,000$85,000, according to Empty Bowls Co-chair Tanya Gillen. “Some people don’t have the money to give, but they have the

Alum Daniel Jeske is picking a bowl at the empty bowls charity event on Oct. 11.

ability to make something and give their time,” Barrow said. But he thinks Empty Bowls does more than just raise money to feed people who are food insecure. Barrow said, “It is neat to give people hope.” But that hope isn’t just needed out in the community, it is needed on campus too. Barrow said, “The thing is, when this is over, it continues on.” Suzanne Shipley, university president, has recently discovered

a new movement on other campuses. Shipley said, “By contributing to Empty Bowls, our students were really ahead of a new movement on campuses, which is to feed the hungry, and that means hungry students as well. There is now a movement on college campuses to create a food pantry for students who need food to take home over the weekends.” Hilton loves the idea, and has one of his own. “One of the things I am thinking about doing is starting a garden somewhere on campus so that there are fresh vegetables that not only could we use for students but as a food source for the cafeteria,” Hilton said. Shipley said she thinks hunger needs to be talked about more in the world, specifically on campus. Shipley said, “I think it is really forward looking that our students have been contributing to this for a long time. It would be interesting to have a broader conversation about what hunger means, not only in the country and community, but on campuses.”

8 | Oct. 12, 2016 |

Women’s golf players have high hopes CHRIS NORRIE REPORTER

he women’s golf team placed second in the West Texas A&M Invitational, they finished day two with a score of 320-299. The team traveled to Amarillo where they played at Tascosa Country Club La Paloma Course. The Mustangs finished strong with a flourish over the final five holes, where they played at the parseventy-two, 6,000-yard. Out of 18 teams in the event, MSU finished second overall. They will travel to Dallas this weekend to compete in the Dallas Baptist Golf Classic. “I was pleased with the outcome of our tournament, I’m very proud of how our girls played, especially at the very end of the tournament. This team has a lot of talent; I can’t wait to see how we end up this fall. I like the team we have, each tournament we seem to play better and better. Hopefully we can ride the momentum of the previous tournament into the Dallas Baptist classic,” Kellie Martin, mass communication senior, said. The Mustangs have two tournaments left before the fall season will be coming to a close. The Oklahoma Intercollegiate will be the last tournament before the season is in the books. “I feel we are in a different spot then we were in last year, I want to end our fall season on a good note. This is a great opportunity for us to get ready for the spring

and to do that playing these tournaments will help our confidence. The fall is more of a rebuilding period and for making sure your team is getting ready for the spring. I just want our team to play the best as we can right now so the confidence we gained from the fall will be with us for the spring, because the spring is when it really matters,” Martin said. The spring season for the Lady Mustangs will start to ramp up in Feb. The Lady Mustangs will have four tournaments in the spring before they begin the postseason Lone Star Conference tournament. Martin wants to make sure she leaves everything on the course as her senior season is about to begin. “This is my last year of competing at a collegiate level, I just want to make sure there is no regrets after it’s all done. I plan on working very hard this offseason and I want to hit the course as much as I can. The three previous season I have end the season with questions about if I prepared myself the best way of putting myself in a position to win for myself and my teammates. This is my senior season I want to go out with a bang, I have to make sure I’m not questioning if I could have done everything right to put myself in a position to win,” Martin said. The spring season will begin Feb. 13 to 14 in San Antonio, Texas. The Lady Mustangs will compete in the Rattler Invitational at the Dominion Country Club.

TAFT HAUS A P A R T M E N T S e! A place to call hom

PHOTOS BY JEANETTE PERRY | THE WICHITAN

Haley Britton, nursing senior, headed the ball away from Anniah Galdean, ENMU forward.

Women’s soccer stomps ENMU JEANETTE PERRY REPORTER

he last two games have been a disappointment for women’s soccer. Undeterred they dominated the game against Eastern New Mexico, winning 2-1 in Sunday’s game. The women kept the ball in ENMU territory throughout the first half making multiple shots on Marissa Torres, ENMU goalkeeper, and ended the half 1-0 MSU. Destinee Williamson, criminal justice junior, said that strength, energy and communication were good starting the game. “We came out strong and we had tons of energy and communication right off the bat,” Williamson said. The first goal of the game was scored by Hanna Mattinson, marketing freshman. She said the team is focusing on more communication on the field and connecting. “Our focus today was communication and just confidence, kinda connecting, which we lacked in the last game,” Mattinson said. “We talked about that beforehand and I think we definitely improved on that.”

Going into the second half the women started strong with Williamson scoring on Torres. Imani Morlock, kinesiology sophomore, said,”We were composed and our defense was really connected.” Unfortunately they started losing steam towards the end of the game and in the last 10 seconds of the game, ENMU was able to score ending the game 2-1 MSU. Damian Clarke, head coach of women’s soccer, said he was happy with the improvement in concentration but disappointed in the last minute goal ENMU squeaked by. “Obviously winning is always better than losing in a certain sense,” Clarke said. “We concentrated well in most parts of the game. I’m disappointed, obviously, in the last 10 seconds.” Moving forward improvements on communications is a focus for the team. “We definitely could have had better communication,” Williamson said. Morlock agrees. “We can really improve on communication,” Morlock said. “I think a lot of times it gets quiet and then chaos

Amazing Move-In Specials. 4611 Taft Blvd. n (940) 692-1731 Like TaftHausApartments on Facebook

strikes, but other then that I think we’re doing good. We’ve just gotta put all of our pieces together.” Improvements in energy level is also needed, according to Williamson. “We could improve on keeping the energy up throughout the whole half as well as starting the second half,” Williamson said. Mattinson said that they let up on one of their strengths, holding out until the last minute. “Normally our strength is holding out to the very last minute and that’s where we kinda let up today,” Mattinson said The women’s soccer team will take on Texas A&M Commerce on Oct. 14 at the A&M-Commerce soccer field. Mattinson guarantees that the team are going to pick things up before their next game. “I can guarantee that we’re going to pick right back up,” Mattinson said. “We’ve got a couple of away games next weekend. I think we’re all pretty confident.”