Design Editor departs from Wichitan
TIFFANY HAGGARD OUTGOING DESIGN EDITOR
To The Wichitan, thank you for giving me a home to find like-minded people and grow in knowledge, experience, and memories. Thank you for providing me with countless opportunities to learn and create. As the designer, I learned so much about creativity, collaboration, and expression. My time as the business manager challenged and pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and in doing so, gave me the privilege of welcoming new faces into the organization.
To The Wichitan staff, thank you for being my friends, confidants and motivators throughout the last three years. I have made so many memories, from interviewing strangers at TIPA to playing kickball. Sorry to the people I tackled! Some of my closest friends in college have come and gone from this organization. As I have leaned on past graduates for advice on all things adulting post-graduation, I hope the current staff knows I intend to offer the same support for them!
As I transition into a new chapter of life, I am immensely grateful for everything I’ve gained from this organization, and I hope new students get that experience for many years to come!
To the Oxford comma, you will always be in my heart, and no one can separate us now.
PHOTO BY SAM DIFIORE | THE WICHITAN Tiffany Haggard is graduating as a dual degree in Mass Communications and Theater with a minor in Digital Film Production, Nov 16.
PHOTO BY TIFFANY HAGGARD | THE WICHITAN
Samantha DiFiore is graduating with a Mass communications degree with a minor in Digital Media, Nov 16. degree with a minor in Digital Media, Nov 16.
Vol. 89 | No. 7
Midwestern State University Fain Fine Arts Bldg., Room D201 3410 Taft Blvd. | Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 (940) 397-4704
wichitan@msutexas.edu | thewichitan.com @wichitanonline
Photography Editor bids farewell
SAM DIFIORE OUTGOING PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR
Where to begin? I first heard about the wichitan from my classmates during one of my film classes. One day a friend of mine asked if I was interested in doing photography for the upcoming semester and I said, “Absolutely.” Since then, I have come and helped with what I can and during that time I have met some of my closest friends and colleagues who have supported and helped along the way.
Going from one of the photographers to multimedia manager and then photography editor for my last semester, it has been a thrilling experience. I am so thankful for my colleagues and friends who have encouraged me throughout the process. Doing photography around campus has made me fall in love with taking photos again and I’m so thankful for that.
As I transition to the next chapter of my life I will carry everything I have learned here with me to whatever opportunity awaits me, hopefully doing film or photography
Once again thank you to the Wichitan staff and advisors for all you have done for me. I will forever be grateful for all the opportunities that were given to me. I won’t take it for granted.
See you next time.
Editor-in-Chief: George Svoboda
Design Editor: Tiffany Haggard
Managing Editor: Abby Turner
Photography Editor: Sam DiFiore
Social Media Manager: Aaron Burrows
Multimedia Manager: Sam DiFiore
Entertainment Editor: Sabrina Harrison
Sports Editor: Jessica Binzari
Advisor: Professor Jonathon Quam
Issue Staff:Juliana Abril, Juan Manosalva, Logan Deatherage, and Madisyn Butler
Copyright ©2024.
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COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND PARAMOUNT PICTURES PATTERSON TIMELINE BY JESSICA BINZARI
MSU invests in new VP of finance
GEORGE SVOBODA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
MSU announced it hired university finance controller Chris Stovall as its Vice President for Administration and Finance. Stovall officially took over the position on Dec. 1.
"We are ecstatic to have Chris in this new leadership position. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our campus, and it's always wonderful when you see your alums excelling," President Stacia Haynie said.
Stovall has worked for the university since 2006, when he started as an accountant. He is also an MSU alum, having earned three degrees from the institution.
"I think it makes me completely invested compared to an outsider, and nothing against an external person coming in with varied experience and perspectives. But, I think every decision that I've ever made as an employee of MSU has been for the best for MSU going forward," Stovall said. "I have a selfish interest, or invested interest in the university's success whether I'm here or long gone."
Stovall said his experience at the university allowed him to move into his new position with relative ease. He is helping find his replacement for the controller position.
Stovall said he and Haynie have already begun working together to improve the university. One of their primary goals is opening the military education center in Bridwell Activity Center, a collaboration between the campus, the city of Wichita Falls and Sheppard Air Force Base.
Stovall said the university received support for the first time from the Wichita Falls Economic Development Corporation for the military education center. As of Dec. 2024, the university
expects to complete the project by Jan. 2026.
"So we'll have, kind of, a dedicated space for military-affiliated students... they have full-time commitments on base and their families, and so they don't have time to be going to multiple offices," Stovall said.
Stovall was a first-generation college student and said he recognized some difficulties in attending school. To address these hardships, he said one of his office's goals is to create a "one-stop-shop" where students can streamline the process of applying, registering and attending MSU.
"I have kind of a good perspective in what students face and some of the challenges navigating the complexities of higher ed," Stovall said. "Especially for the first time, because you don't know what office to go to to get assistance for various things."
Stovall said the one-stop-shop idea has been floated around since he arrived at MSU, and "... this will give us the ability to actually see that come to fruition, and so that's really exciting."
Stovall's office will play a key part in Haynie's goals for her administration, which is to strengthen the ties between MSU, Sheppard AFB and Wichita Falls.
"Providing her the resources, the data that she needs... whatever we can do to help support her, and being strategic in how we deploy resources," Stovall said.
Stovall said that finding ways to increase state funding is one way to support Haynie's administration.
The university recently balanced its $9.8 million deficit in September, a pit Haynie and Stovall are trying to avoid falling back into.
"That didn't happen overnight, honestly. So I think being datainformed and supplying that data and communicating that data to leadership frequently and often- You know, President Haynie wants to know and wants to talk about the budget almost at every
meeting," Stovall said. "it's at the top of mind for the entire cabinet and all the leaders."
Stovall thinks communication is key to university finances, and he plans to build a stronger relationship with several organizations across campus.
"I think getting in front of Faculty Senate, the Student Government Association... Staff Senate, making sure that we're sharing out information with the campus and not making decisions, you know, in a vacuum so that they know what decisions are being made," Stovall said. "Why, you know, we weren't able to do raises since 2022, and it's hard for employees to understand. All they see is that there haven't been raises."
Stovall says he is proud of his MSU background and that his time at the university has shaped his life.
"I'm a product of MSU, so I can speak to it 'til I'm blue in the face about the value of higher ed and what it's done for me and how transformational it is for our students," Stovall said.
PHOTO BY GEORGE SVOBODA | THE WICHITAN Stovall's goal is to play a support President Haynie's plan to strengthen the ties between MSU and Sheppard AFB, Dec 5.
PHOTO BY GEORGE SVOBODA | THE WICHITAN MSU has hired its university finance controller Chris Stovall as its Vice President for administration, Dec 5.
PHOTO BY GEORGE SVOBODA | THE WICHITAN President Haynie speaks to student senators about faculty and tuition changes on campus, Oct 22.
Finals Frenzy attendence falls short
JULIANA ABRIL REPORTER
Every semester, MSU's University Programming Board (UPB) organizes Finals Frenzy, a free event designed to help students unwind before the stress of finals week.
Featuring a variety of activities, food and opportunities to connect, this tradition has become a highlight for many students as they prepare for the academic challenges ahead.
Student assistant for UPB Abeni Valdez explained that the purpose of Finals Frenzy is to provide students with a break from their studies.
“It allows students to step away from finals, have fun, eat good food and enjoy a lot of free activities,” Valdez said. This semester’s theme was 70s disco, highlighted by a latenight breakfast and a silent disco.
In addition to these activities, the event offered a variety of featured booths hosted by campus organizations which offered interactive activities and giveaways.
President of the Student Government Association Vincent Peter emphasized the event’s value in creating connections among students.
“It’s so good to cme here, relax, and meet people. You might sit down with someone at an art booth, and before you know it, you're talking and laughing together." Peter said.
Peter also highlighted the charitable aspect of this year’s
event, with one booth creating blankets to donate to local children in need.
“It’s a way to connect the MSU community with Wichita Falls, which is always great to see,” Peter said.
Finals Frenzy relies on the participation of campus organizations to provide engaging booths and activities. Peter encouraged groups that didn’t participate this semester to consider joining next time. Resources and support are available through UPB and SGA to make participation accessible for all.
“It’s a great opportunity to showcase your organization, meet new people and contribute to the MSU community,” Peter said.
While Finals Frenzy remains a beloved tradition, this year saw a slightly lower turnout compared to previous semesters. Respiratory care sophomore Celiana Lazarde volunteered with UPB and noted that the reduced attendance might be due to the heavier academic workload many students are facing.
“In programs like health, the demands are so high that it’s hard for students to make time,” Lazarde said.
As the semester winds down, events like Finals Frenzy remind students the importance of taking time to relax and recharge.
From the lively silent disco, to creative booths and community initiatives this event continues to provide a space
for students to decompress while building connections and memories.
For those looking to get involved next semester, Finals Frenzy promises to be another night of fun, food and friendship.
Finals Frenzy le da un respiro a los estudiantes
JULIANA ABRIL REPORTERA
Cada semestre, la Junta de Programación Universitaria de MSU (UPB, por sus siglas en inglés) organiza Finals Frenzy, un evento gratuito diseñado para ayudar a los estudiantes a relajarse antes del estrés de la semana de finales. Con una variedad de actividades, comida y oportunidades para conectar, esta tradición se ha convertido en uno de los momentos más esperados por los estudiantes mientras se preparan para los retos académicos que se avecinan.
Abeni Valdez, asistente estudiantil de UPB y estudiante de Administración con una especialización en Organizaciones sin Fines de Lucro, explicó que el propósito de Finals Frenzy es brindar a los estudiantes un respiro de sus estudios.
“Este evento les permite a los estudiantes alejarse de los finales, divertirse, comer buena comida y disfrutar de muchas actividades gratuitas”, dijo Valdez.
El tema de este semestre fue disco, donde destacan el desayuno nocturno y una disco silenciosa, lo cual, según Valdez, se alineó con el ambiente animado del evento.
Además de estas actividades, el evento contó con una variedad de mesas destacadas, organizadas por asociaciones estudiantiles del
campus que ofrecieron actividades interactivas y obsequios.
Vincent Peter, presidente de la Asociación de Gobierno Estudiantil y estudiante de tercer año en Tecnología Industrial, enfatizó que el valor del evento es crear conexiones entre los estudiantes.
“Es muy bueno venir aquí, relajarse y conocer gente. Podrías sentarte con alguien en un puesto de arte y, antes de darte cuenta, ya están hablando y riendo juntos”, comentó
Peter.
Peter también destacó el aspecto caritativo de esta edición del evento, que incluyó un puesto donde se crearon mantas para donar a niños locales en necesidad.
“Es una forma de conectar a la comunidad de MSU con Wichita Falls, y siempre es genial verlo”, dijo Peter.
Finals Frenzy depende de la participación de las organizaciones estudiantiles para ofrecer puestos y actividades atractivas. Peter
animó a las organizaciones del campus que no participaron este semestre a considerar unirse la próxima vez. Hay recursos y apoyo disponibles a través de UPB y SGA para facilitar la participación de todos.
“Es una gran oportunidad para mostrar tu organización, conocer gente nueva y contribuir a la comunidad de MSU”, expresó Peter.
Aunque Finals Frenzy sigue siendo una tradición muy querida, este año tuvo una asistencia ligeramente menor en comparación con semestres anteriores. Celiana Lazarde, estudiante de segundo año en Cuidados Respiratorios y voluntaria en UPB, señaló que la menor asistencia podría deberse a la mayor carga académica que enfrentan muchos estudiantes.
“En programas como el de salud, las demandas son tan altas que es difícil que los estudiantes encuentren tiempo”, dijo Lazarde.
Mietras el semestre llega a su fin, eventos como Finals Frenzy recuerdan a los estudiantes la importancia de tomarse un momento para relajarse y recargar energías. Desde la disco silenciosa hasta las manualidades creativas y las iniciativas comunitarias, este evento sigue ofreciendo un espacio para que los estudiantes se desconecten mientras construyen conexiones y recuerdos. Para quienes busquen involucrarse el próximo semestre, Finals Frenzy promete ser otra noche de diversión, comida y amistad.
PHOTO BY SAM DIFIORE | THE WICHITAN Los estudiantes construyen lamparas de lava en el Finals Frenzy, Dic 5.
PHOTO BY SAM DIFIORE | THE WICHITAN MSU has hired its university finance controller Chris Stovall as its Vice President for administration, Dec 5.
Redwine Honors works to improve campus
MADISYN BUTLER REPORTER
The Redwine Honors first-year creative inquiry class presented its campus improvement projects, showcasing ideas to improve MSU's campus.
Honors students in their first fall semester are required to take the creative inquiry class. The main project of the class is to create a plan to improve different aspects of campus. Then they present projects to their peers with an oral presentation, and later present research posters to representatives of academics, facilities, and student services.
First-year sophomore nursing major Marli Limon's group addressed navigation difficulties on campus.
“We noticed that around campus, a lot of what the other projects was like there’s problems with navigating and stuff. So we like, what if we had a big mural navigating across campus. We looked up a lot of examples and we just realized that MSU is really plain. It’s pretty. It’s pretty nature, but not really a lot of art. We felt like it’s a big art based campus, but it doesn’t really expose that,” Limon said.
Limon said she thinks the campus improvement project brings a unique perspective to the university.
“A lot of the campus improvement projects are done by first-year students so you get a fresh pair of eyes on campus. Okay, well I never would have thought of that cause every generation is changing, so I feel like having a fresh pair of eyes on campus every year every year is why projects are never really repetitive,” Limon said.
This year’s projects included sustainability efforts and recycling programs, improving campus safety, student internship opportunities, consolidating campus calendars and bringing more art to campus.
Creative inquiry encourages first-year honors students to take an active role in their campus and education.
“In college, you’re learning things you actually need to know. Like the learning portfolios and all the guest speakers we had coming in,” Limon said. “I feel like I’m learning things that I need to know for my future. I’m more engaged in it and it’s also, I like how it’s more personable here. Even though it’s a bigger campus, I feel like it’s a smaller community in a lot of ways.”
The Anthony Patterson trial - a timeline
PHOTO BY MADISYN BUTLER | THE WICHITAN Stovall's goal is to play a key part in Haynie's administration
PHOTO COURTESY OF WICHITA COUNTY JAIL
Patterson
Escobar breaks MSU scoring record
JUAN MANOSALVA REPORTER
Midwestern State University Striker Mere Escobar etched his name into program history on Nov. 15th, 2024, breaking the all-time goal-scoring record in the Mustangs 3-1 victory over St. Edward’s in the Lone Star Conference semifinal.
Escobar’s 86th-minute strike not only sealed the game, but also marked his 59th career goal, surpassing the previous record held by Alvin Alexander and Kris Henderson.
Escobar’s milestone goal was his 15th goal of the season, showcasing remarkable consistency during his time at MSU. Reflecting on the achievement, Escobar remained humble, attributing his success to a team-first mindset.
“Throughout my career at MSU, I never really focused on breaking scoring or points records. I just wanted to do what’s best for my team. When I hit 50 goals, I started to think it was a possibility, but I believe my parents wanted it more than I did,” Escobar said.
Looking back on his time at MSU, Escobar credited key challenges and his father’s influence for shaping his career.
“Not playing much as a freshman and being benched during my sophomore year were pivotal moments. They motivated me to work harder. My biggest influence has always been my father. He believed in me from the start and inspired my playing style
and determination,” Escobar said.
The journey to this record-breaking moment spanned four years, with Escobar’s career marked by growth and hard work.
“It took me four falls [semesters] and a spring [semester] to get to 60 goals and break the record,” Escobar said. “Looking back, it was just a lot of hard work. My first two to three years, I wasn’t thinking about scoring, I just wanted to play. But things worked out for me, and when I knew it was a possibility, I went for it.”
The record-setting goal came in dramatic fashion, with the Mustangs leading St. Edward’s 2-1 late in the game. Escobar’s strike not only secured MSU’s spot in the final, but also avenged a previous 5-0 loss to the same opponent early in the season.
“I was very happy when I scored the goal, mostly because it was a 2-1 game in a semifinal against St. Edward’s. Cooper [Tea] told me it was the record breaker, and it was just happiness released. But mostly, I was glad that my goal could help the team reach the final,” Escobar said.
Despite his individual accomplishments, Escobar lamented their elimination in the championship, as his ultimate goal was to win the national tournament in his final season with the Mustangs.
“It was a tough loss. My goal was to win the national tournament, not break a scoring record. Obviously, I'm still grateful for it, but I’m just gutted that we couldn't reach the ultimate goal. At a certain level, you can’t afford mistakes. We
Escobar rompe el record de goles con MSU
JUAN
MANOSALVA REPORTERO
El delantero de MSU, Mere Escobar, hace historia convirtiéndose en el goleador histórico de la universidad tras anotar su gol número 59 contra St. Edward's.
El delantero de la Universidad Estatal de Midwestern (MSU), Mere Escobar, dejó su nombre escrito en la historia de los Mustangs el pasado 15 de noviembre tras romper el récord de goles en la victoria de MSU por 3-1 sobre St. Edward's. El gol de Escobar en el minuto 86 no solo aseguró la victoria, sino que marcó el gol 59.º en su carrera, superando el récord anterior establecido por Alvin Alexander y Kris Henderson, ambos con 58 goles.
El gol histórico de Escobar también fue su 15.º de la temporada, demostrando una notable consistencia durante su tiempo en MSU. Tras reflexionar sobre su logro, Escobar se mostró humilde y atribuyó su éxito a una mentalidad centrada en el equipo.
“A lo largo de mi carrera en MSU nunca me enfoqué en romper récords de goles o puntos, solo quería hacer lo mejor para mi equipo. Cuando llegué a los 50 goles, empecé a pensar que era una posibilidad, pero creo que mis padres lo deseaban más que yo,” dijo Escobar.
Al recordar su tiempo en MSU, Escobar destacó desafíos clave y la influencia de su padre como los factores que moldearon su carrera.
“No jugar mucho como novato y ser suplente durante mi segundo año fueron momentos cruciales porque me motivaron a trabajar más duro. Mi mayor influencia siempre ha sido mi padre. Él creyó en mí desde el principio e inspiró mi estilo de juego y mi determinación,” agregó Escobar.
El camino hacia este momento histórico abarcó cuatro años, con una carrera marcada por el crecimiento y el trabajo arduo.
“Me tomó cuatro otoños y una primavera llegar a los 60 goles y romper el récord,” compartió Escobar, añadiendo luego: “Mirando hacia atrás, fue mucho trabajo duro. En mis primeros dos o tres años, no pensaba en anotar, solo quería jugar. Pero las cosas funcionaron para mí, y cuando supe que era una posibilidad, lo intenté.”
El gol que estableció el récord llegó de manera dramática en la semifinal the la conferencia LSC. Con la ventaja de los Mustangs 2-1 frente a St. Edward's cuando el partido seguía abierto en el minuto 86th, el gol de Escobar no solo aseguró el paso de MSU a la final, sino que también fue una revancha de una derrota previa por 5-0 ante el mismo oponente al inicio de la temporada.
“Estaba muy feliz cuando anoté el gol, principalmente porque era un partido de semifinales contra St. Edward's con marcador de 2-1. Cooper (un compañero) me dijo que era el gol del récord, y fue como liberar felicidad. Pero, sobre todo, me alegré de que mi gol pudiera ayudar al equipo a llegar a la final,” dijo Escobar.
A pesar de sus logros individuales, Escobar lamentó la eliminación del equipo en el campeonato, ya que su objetivo principal era ganar el torneo nacional en su última temporada con los Mustangs.
“Fue una derrota dura. Mi objetivo era ganar el torneo nacional, no romper un récord de goles. Obviamente, estoy agradecido por ello, pero estoy devastado porque no pudimos alcanzar el objetivo final. A cierto nivel, no puedes cometer errores. Cometimos errores y nos castigaron, pero no hay arrepentimientos; lo dimos todo en el campo,” añadió Escobar.
Aunque los Mustangs no lograron el título nacional, los sueños de Escobar van más allá del Stangs Park, el sueño del delantero es continuar su carrera futbolística a nivel profesional.
made mistakes and got punished, but there’s no regret—we left it all on the field,” Escobar said.
Although the Mustangs fell short of a national title, Escobar’s dreams extend beyond Stangs Park as he looks ahead to continuing his soccer journey professionally.
“It’s been my dream since I was just a young boy, and my family’s dream too. Hopefully, I can sign with a professional team in the U.S., whether it’s the USL Championship or USL League One,” Escobar said.
Escobar leaves behind a legacy at MSU, with his record standing as a testament to his skill and ambition.
“It feels great to have left this mark on the program. I just want to be remembered as someone who was friendly off the pitch but gave everything on it. Unfortunately, we never achieved the national title, but I know the program will continue to grow and achieve great things,” Escobar concluded.
As Escobar closes his collegiate career, his contributions to MSU soccer will not be forgotten. His record-breaking feat serves as an inspiration to future Mustangs as well as a reminder
BY STEPHANIE GARCIA | THE WICHITAN Escobar goes to kick the ball on a penalty kick in the game against the St. Mary Rattlers, Nov. 6.
“Ha sido mi sueño desde que era un niño pequeño, y también el sueño de mi familia. Espero poder firmar con un equipo profesional en los Estados Unidos, ya sea en el Campeonato USL o en la USL League One,” dijo Escobar. Escobar dejó un legado en MSU, con el récord como testimonio de su talento y ambición.
“Es increíble haber dejado esta huella en el programa. Solo quiero ser recordado como alguien que era amigable fuera del campo pero que lo daba todo dentro de él. Desafortunadamente, nunca logramos el título nacional, pero sé que el programa seguirá creciendo y logrará grandes cosas,” dijo Escobar. Tras cerrar su carrera universitaria, las contribuciones de Escobar al fútbol de MSU no serán olvidadas. Este logro histórico no solo sirve como inspiración para los futuros Mustangs, sino también como muestra de lo que pueden lograr la determinación y el trabajo en equipo.
PHOTO
Women's top scorer finds home at MSU
JESSICA BINZARI SPORTS EDITOR
When kinesiology
junior Nyxalee Muñoz transferred to Midwestern from Tyler Junior College (TJC), she did not expect her experience to be so different. She came in as a transfer thinking it would be hard to earn her team’s trust, but she ultimately marked herself as a valuable player and a reliable leader on the field.
“I see myself as a leader. I feel like as a transfer I didn’t get a lot of respect, but I mean the more we play I think that’s what gives me respect in a way that is like they [the players] can trust me on the field,” Muñoz said.
Coming from a junior college, Muñoz found the transition to a four-year college came with its own challenges. In terms of her team, the midfielder from Odessa felt her relationship with the girls was more authentic because of how they connected with each other. At TJC, she says all the players were pushed to be closer, which was not the case at MSU.
“In Juco, I lived with all my teammates and everything, and like we were closer as friends, but at the end of the day, I think what makes a difference is like we meet each other in like a different way. It’s not forced, so I think it’s what makes it different here because
you have to put effort into finding these friends, and you do it in your own way,” Muñoz said.
Muñoz explained that her team helped her change the way she looked at soccer.
“They made me more serious about my game. Because I know everyone who’s been on the team really wants to put everything aside and focus on soccer and win,” Muñoz said.
In turn, Muñoz brings her own energy to fuel her teammates when they need her support or determination.
“I think I impacted my team as a player and as a teammate. I’m always here, a shoulder to cry on, I’m here for encouragement and to fight. Everyone needs a little fight in their lives, so I think that’s what I bring,” Muñoz said.
The culture of the women’s soccer team is built on the friendships each of the players have created together. The bond they have brings them closer not only as teammates but also as a family. The opportunity to play for each other encourages Muñoz and her teammates to give their best every time they are on the field and be there for each other when things get tough.
Muñoz explains that it’s important for their team to be “each other’s backbones"
"Because if there is one little mistake, it gets in our head and it impacts the
whole team, so we need a little heads up like ‘girl, you got it’ like I think that’s what we need, like a lot of encouragement," Muñoz said.
The transfer from TJC has made a name for herself without a doubt, earning the trust of her teammates and standing out as a star player for the Mustangs.
Muñoz has closed out the season as the leading scorer for the Mustangs with eight total goals for this Fall. Her results have earned her the Lone Star Conference Newcomer of the Year title, as well as a place on the All-LSC Second Team list.
As a Kinesiology major, Muñoz says she is still unsure of what career she wants to pursue after graduating.
“It depends what I think about later on in my life. I don’t know if I want to do PT school or not. I might be a PT Assistant, but I don’t know if I want to be an actual physical therapist. We’ll find out later on,” Muñoz said.
No matter where life decides to take her, Muñoz is thankful for the support she gets from her role models: her mom and her grandparents. The most valuable lessons she has picked up from them is how to “be as a person” and understanding what “real love is,” which has transpired into her love for soccer and her love for the people around her.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NYXALEE MUNOZ Muñoz travels down the field with the ball hoping to score against opponent from UT Tyler, Sept. 28.
PHOTO BY SAM DIFIORE | THE WICHITAN MSU women's soccer team huddle together before starting the second half of its game against Western Colarado, Sept. 5.
PHOTO BY SAM DIFIORE | THE WICHITAN Cecilia Martinez musical theater freshman (left) Eli Kuzmack theater tech senior (right) compare their notes to determine if they have come across each others loved ones, Oct. 7.
'Stang leaves home for basketball career
JESSICA BINZARI SPORTS EDITOR
College sports present an amazing opportunity for athletes heading into higher education to pursue degrees and continue athletic careers Midwestern State has 350 student athletes with 13 sports teams competing in the Lone Star Conference.
Applied arts and sciences senior Svetozarevic is one of the few international student-athletes representing MSU. While many college players coming from abroad struggle with issues such as homesickness or adapting to new academic pressures, Svetozarevic uses his commitment to basketball and his devotion to his family drive him.
Svetozarevic from Niš, Serbia and now stars as a forward for the MSU men’s basketball team, but he previously played for the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and the Portland Pilots. He mentions that the decision to transfer to MSU was the right one for him.
The D1 transfer described how he was looking for a school that would help him grow as a basketball player, but also one that would help him graduate in Spring 2025.
“Not every coach that reached out to me from other schools could do that, so they said ‘maybe we can get you done in a year and a half, maybe do an extra summer semester,’” Svetozarevic said. “After talking to Coach Justin Leslie, he basically explained what kind of player he is looking for and I just really liked what I heard.”
Before college, Svetozarevic played in Serbia’s top basketball league in Belgrade for a few years along with his current teammate, mechanical engineering junior Vojin Mastilovic. Although knowing each other before leaving for the United
States, neither of them realized they got recruited on the same team.
“Coach Leslie just told me randomly, like right a few days before I committed. . . ‘hey just so you know, we got another Serbian guy, he just committed like yesterday or two days ago’ and I’m like ‘who?’ and then he told me and I was like ‘there is no way.’ Like what are the chances?” Svetozarevic said.
Mastilovic decided he was going to play college basketball in the United States, and after talking to a few other players, Svetozarevic decided he would give it a go as well.
The recruiting process for athletes outside of the U.S. is different, as international players mostly rely on recruiting agencies to put them in contact with different coaches and get offers. This takes away from the underlying stress and anxiety of reaching out for school and waiting for responses, which can ultimately make the recruiting process extremely daunting if athletes choose to handle it themselves.
For Svetozarevic, this was not the case, as he received significant help from agencies that were happy to give him a hand.
“They [The recruiting agencies] heard that I was trying to find a school and after talking to so many teammates, some people reached out to me and said ‘hey we can help you find a school,’” Svetozarevic said.
Once he arrived in the United States, Svetozarevic admited there were a lot of things that he had to get used to.
“It’s really different. Being from Serbia and from Europe, it definitely took me some time to adjust, but . . if you’re a studentathlete you don’t have that much time to think about what’s hard or not hard, you have so many things to do throughout the day, so like you grow up pretty fast,” Svetozarevic said.
He mentioned that homesickness is not something he had struggles with because he had been living on his own before going to college.
“I’ve been living on my own since I was 16-17, so I have been on my own for some time, like missing home is not that big of a problem,” Svetozarevic said.
Svetozarevic says his family represents his most important motivation. He mentioned he always has his two little sisters in mind.
“My number one supporters and they are my number one motivation for everything that I’m doing. Like saying that they’re just the most important thing to me is not enough, they’re like above that,” Svetozarevic said.
After graduating, Svetozarevic’s goal is to become a professional basketball player. He wants to return to Europe and play for a top-tier club in a competitive league.
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE GARCIA | THE WICHITAN Svetozarevic listens intently to head coach Justin Leslie during a break in the game against the Adams State Grizzlies, Nov. 16.
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE GARCIA | THE WICHITAN Svetozarevic dribbles up the court to set up the play against the Adams State Grizzlies, Nov. 16.
PHOTO BY STEPHANIE GARCIA | THE WICHITAN Svetozarevic looks to pass to an open teammate while being guarded by a defender from Adams State, Nov. 16.
Opinion: Deck the halls with disappointment
SABRINA HARRISON ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
Ihate Christmas.
The fact that it is the biggest capitalist holiday of the year is enough for me to say that I dislike it, but there’s a multitude of other reasons why I don't enjoy celebrating.
First of all, gift giving is the worst tradition. The pressure and politics around who you give gifts to, what you get people and how much you spend is insane.
I don’t want to buy gifts for people just because they bought me a gift. It’s not a gift at that point, it’s a trade.
Second of all, the idea that your love for someone is tied to a present is a little stressful. I hold so much love and appreciation for several people in my life, but if I had to buy them all a gift I’d be thousands of dollars in debt.
It’s not that I hate gifts as a whole, gift-giving is one of my love languages, but I want to give gifts on my terms.
Christmas has also birthed cliché Hallmark movie after cliché Hallmark movie.
Oh no, the career girl has to go back to her hometown for the holidays and falls in love with the oddly handsome Christmas Tree farm owner. Now she has to choose between love and her career. Whatever will she do?
Then there’s Christmas imagery. In the state of Texas, we very rarely have a white Christmas. At most, it’s a muggy gray Christmas.
Don’t even get me started on Santa
Claus. He’s creepy.
“He sees you when you’re sleeping/he knows when you’re awake,” are terrifying lines both in and out of context.
Then he breaks into houses. Yes, he leaves presents, but if any other stranger broke into my house to leave me a gift, I wouldn’t be leaving them milk and cookies, I’d be calling the police.
These reasons may sound petty, but there are also bigger implications to the holiday.
Christmas in the American zeitgeist is a “family” holiday. So what are you supposed to do when you either have family issues or don’t have a family at all?
I know for me, family holidays are just another time in my life where I’m forced back in the closet so as to not “upset” family members who are homophobic and transphobic. Either that, or face the consequences of existing as a queer person in an unwelcoming household.
For many queer people, Christmas is filled with dead names and gifts from parents addressed to the child they wish they had, rather than the one sitting in front of them.
I realize that I am very lucky to even have a home to go to during the holidays, but that does not change the fact that every Christmas from the moment I came out is a performance.
I think my biggest problem with Christmas is the expectation to shut up and be happy.
If you’re miserable around Christmas time you’re not allowed to express that. Otherwise, you’re labeled as a “Grinch” or a “Scrooge.”
In my opinion, Christmas and
toxic positivity go together like milk and cookies.
That’s not to say I don’t enjoy anything about the holiday.
First of all, peppermint bark is delicious. The fact that I cannot get it yearround is a crime.
I understand that I can make it at any point in
ingredients, but it’s so much easier to just buy it from a store.
Second of all, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “Grandma Got Ran Over by a Reindeer” are classics. If I’m watching a Christmas movie, it’s one of those
Third of all, some
of the music is just really fun. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” “You’re a Mean One Mr. Grinch” and Micheal Buble’s cover of “Santa Baby” always put a smile on my face. Michael Buble’s cover is especially funny. He replaced “baby” in the song with “buddy” and “pally” in an attempt to not flirt in a song about flirting with Santa.
YouTuber JSchlatt also just released a phenomenal Christmas album.
ILLUSTRATION BY SABRINA HARRISON
Though Santa is creepy, cowboy Santa is not. I don’t know what it is, but there’s something about cowboy Santa that feels so much friendlier to me than normal santa. Still, those things don’t make up for the fact that Christmas is intrinsically tied to family. Not having that connection can be really painful for people.
Cowboy Santa is the only Santa Harrison likes, Dec. 10.
Maybe one day I’ll figure out
Flawed animation and a great cast | “The Polar Express”
review
Robert Zemeckis and William Broyles Jr's “The Polar Express” is a Christmas adventure film. The film is based on the 1985 children's book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. The film follows a boy, called Hero Boy (voiced by Josh Hutcherson) who has doubts about Santa's existence. Set on the night of Christmas Eve, the boy is awoken by a magic train called the Polar Express, which is traveling to the North Pole.
This film is one of the first films ever fully created by computeranimated motion capture. As the film is a pioneer of computer-animated motion capture, there are some flaws in the animation. There are several moments throughout the film that the characters’ animation is stiff and the motion capture on the their faces do not show much emotion.
There is a mistake in the Polar Express train itself, there are several shots outside of the train which show a different set of cars in the shot. Though there are flaws with the animation, the plot of the movie is enjoyable.
When Hero Boy first boards the Polar Express, he meets a girl called Hero Girl (voiced by Nona Gaye), a know-it-all kid (voiced by Eddie Deezen) and a boy named Billy (voiced by Peter Scolari). The several incidents throughout the train ride keeps the plot fresh and the audience on its toes.
When they arrive at the North Pole the four have another adventure returning back to the train by accidentally dropping into the big sack of presents Santa is delivering for Christmas.
The voice acting in the film showed the talent of the incredible cast. Tom Hanks did several voices for the film, including Hero Boy’s adult voice, Hero Boy's father, the Conductor, the Hobo, Santa Claus and the Ebenezer Scrooge puppet, bringing a distinct personality to each character.
In addition to voice work, Hanks also performed motion capture for these characters. His performance added depth and warmth to the story, showcasing his remarkable range as an actor.
“The Polar Express” is a classic when it comes to Christmas movies and it will bring entertainment to audiences for years to come.
LOGAN DEATHERAGE RATING: 3/5
ILLUSTRATION BY SABRINA HARRISON Harrison depicts herself tearing a Christmas tree, Dec. 9.
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB
"The Polar Express" was one of the first films to use motion capture computer animation, Nov. 10, 2004.
Defying audience expectations | “Wicked” Review
JULIANA ABRIL REPORTER
The long-awaited film adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical “Wicked” has exceeded audience expectations. From Jon M. Chu's direction to the outstanding performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this movie defies not only gravity, but also what it means to bring a musical to the big screen.
One of the most impressive aspects of “Wicked” was the decision to record the songs live on set.
According to Chu, there was no better option considering Grande and Erivo’s talent, two of the best voices in the world. This choice not only enhances the authenticity of the performances but also allows for a deeper emotional connection with the characters.
The cast's commitment doe not stop there. Both actresses decided to perform their own stunts and endure long hours in makeup, especially Erivo, to bring even more realism to Elphaba. This level of dedication is evident in every scene, where they even sang live while flying or hanging from a
JULIANA ABRIL
RATING:5/5
FOTO CORTESIA DE IMDB "Wicked" se estrenó en Noviembre 22, alcanzando cifras de $165 millones en el fin de semana de su estreno, Nov. 22.
chandelier.
The film’s attention to detail is worthy of admiration. Shiz, the train, Emerald City and the tulip-filled landscapes were all built and planted, making a world full of magic feel incredibly tangible. These elements, combined with Grande’s occasional improvised moments as Glinda bring a fresh, spontaneous touch to a story that, even after over 20 years on stage, continues to captivate and surprise audiences.
The film does not forget its roots and offers fans unforgettable moments. Easter eggs like Dorothy’s red slippers or Fiyero’s future as the Scarecrow enrich the experience, especially for long-time followers of the story. Moreover, the appearance of Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, the original Elphaba and Glinda from Broadway, is a touching homage that adds both value and nostalgia.
However, not everything is perfect. The Latin Spanish adaptation, which featured Danna Paola and Ceci de la Cueva, who had already brought these characters to life on stage— falls short. The translation loses some of the original script’s emotional and comedic impact, and the synchronization of the voices with the audio is noticeably off. While it does not ruin the experience, it does not match the meticulous quality of the English version.
Since its release on Nov. 22, 2024, “Wicked” has generated over $400 million at the box office, becoming a cultural phenomenon. It has received four Golden Globe nominations for 2025, including Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy,
Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo and Best Supporting Actress for Ariana Grande. However, Jon M. Chu’s absence in the Best Director category is surprising given the impact of his work.
In conclusion, Wicked is an unmissable cinematic experience that combines stellar performances, detailed production and a narrative that continues to captivate after
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES "Wicked" gets nominated for four golden globe's just weeks after it's worldwide release, Nov. 22.
"Wicked "
desafía las expectativas de su audiencia
JULIANA ABRIL REPORTER
Wicked, la tan esperada adaptación cinematográfica del icónico musical de Broadway, ha superado las expectativas. Desde la dirección de Jon M. Chu hasta las interpretaciones magistrales de Cynthia Erivo y Ariana Grande, esta película redefine lo que significa llevar un musical al cine. Uno de los aspectos más impresionantes de Wicked es la decisión de grabar las canciones en vivo en el set. Según el propio Chu, no había mejor opción considerando el talento de Grande y Erivo, dos de las mejores voces del mundo. Esta elección no solo eleva la autenticidad de las actuaciones, sino que también permite una conexión emocional más profunda con los personajes. Pero el compromiso del elenco no termina ahí: ambas actrices decidieron realizar sus propias acrobacias y someterse a largas horas de maquillaje, especialmente Erivo, para darle mayor realismo a Elphaba. Este nivel de entrega es tangible en cada escena, donde incluso mientras volaban o colgaban de un candelabro, cantaban en vivo.
El nivel de detalle en la producción también es digno de admiración. Shiz, el tren, la ciudad esmeralda y los tulipanes del paisaje fueron construidos y plantados, lo que hace que un mundo lleno de magia se sienta increíblemente tangible. Estos elementos, combinados con las esporádicas actuaciones improvisadas de Grande como Glinda, aportan frescura y espontaneidad a una historia que, a pesar de haber estado en teatros por más de 20 años, sigue emocionando y sorprendiendo.
La película no olvida sus raíces y regala a los fans detalles
inolvidables. Los guiños a El Mago de Oz, como las zapatillas rojas de Dorothy o el futuro de Fiyero como el Espantapájaros, son pequeños "Easter eggs" que enriquecen la experiencia, especialmente para quienes han seguido la historia durante años. Además, la aparición de Idina Menzel y Kristin Chenoweth, las primeras actrices en interpretar a Elphaba y Glinda en Broadway, es un homenaje emocionante que añade valor y un toque de nostalgia.
Sin embargo, no todo es perfecto. La adaptación al español latino, aunque realizada por Danna Paola y Ceci de la Cueva, quienes ya habían interpretado a los personajes en el teatro, deja que desear. La traducción pierde parte del impacto emocional y cómico del guion original, y la sincronización de las voces con el audio resulta algo deficiente. Aunque no arruina la experiencia, sí queda por debajo del nivel de detalle alcanzado en la versión original en inglés. Desde su estreno el pasado 22 de noviembre de 2024, Wicked ha generado más de 400 millones de dólares en taquilla y se ha convertido en un fenómeno cultural. Con cuatro nominaciones a los Globos de Oro 2025, incluyendo Mejor Película de Comedia o Musical, Mejor Actriz para Cynthia Erivo y Mejor Actriz de Reparto para Ariana Grande. Sin embargo, sorprende la ausencia de Jon M. Chu en la categoría de Mejor Dirección, a pesar del impacto de su trabajo.
En conclusión, Wicked es una experiencia cinematográfica imperdible que combina actuaciones impresionantes, una producción detallada y una narrativa que sigue cautivando tras más de dos décadas. Aunque la versión en español no alcanza el nivel de la original, el filme en general es un triunfo rotundo. Le doy 5 mustangs y no puedo esperar a la Parte 2, que se estrenará en noviembre de 2025.
Gladiator through the female gaze
ABBY TURNER SPORTS EDITOR
Nearly 24 years after the release of “Gladiator,” fans were graced with the sequel, “Gladiator II,” set 16 years after the end of Gladiator.
As a Ridley Scott fan, and a much bigger “Gladiator” fan, this was my most anticipated watch of the year. I had high expectations for this movie going into watching it and let me just say… It did not disappoint.
The opening credits followed the same animation style however, in “Gladiator II,” the animations show scenes from the first movie. Scenes like Commodus’ (Joaquin Phoenix) thumbs up in the arena, or Maximus’s (Russel Crow) famous line, “My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius” and the tiger fight that happens during the games when Maximus was fighting Tigris of Gual.
Throughout the entire movie there are multiple references to the first. In my opinion, if you plan on watching Gladiator II you definitely need to watch the first movie.
There are so many references to the first movie that only people who have watched will pick up on.
That being said, the beginning of the movie explains well enough the time period that fell between Maximus and Lucius (Paul Mescal) that movie goers could follow along with the movie, they just may be a little lost as to the background of some characters.
The movie is set 16 years after Maximus kills Commodus and gives Rome back to the people. The dream of Rome and one Maximus was trying to achieve was to make Rome a republic. In the second movie, Maximus’ son Lucius is still trying to achieve that dream.
He must overthrow the current Emperors, Geta (Joseph Quinn) and Caracalla (Fred Hechinger). With action-packed scenes and hopes for revenge, Lucius faces his father’s legacy in the Colosseum.
The beginning of the movie opens up with a battle scene, which is no surprise to any one. The fight is between Rome’s armies, lead by General Acacius (Pedro Pascal) and the armies of a North African city, where Lucius and his wife are living.
This scene was action packed and set the tone for the battles and fights that would take place throughout the movie.
In my opinion it is the best action packed scene in the movie. This scene gives a reason for the conflicts between two main characters, Lucius and Acacius, and shows the start of Lucius' journey to the Colosseum.
Lucius' wife is shot and killed during the battle on an order given by General Acacius. As his wife falls into the sea, Lucius tries to reach her, but is whacked over the head and falls unconscious into the sea as well.
One significant moment in this scene is Lucius breaking off a piece of the arrow that killed his wife and carrying it with him throughout the movie.
Lucius was then bought and became a gladiator. He made a deal with Macrinus (Denzel Washington), the gladiator master, that if he would keep winning Macrinus would give Lucius exactly what he wanted, revenge on Acacius.
Geta and Caracalla are portrayed in a very childlike manner, always giggling, and never acting as most emperors would. The way they act is similar to how unhinged Commodus was in the first movie when he
became emperor.
But really the main star of the movie was Caracalla’s monkey, Dondus. Dondus later becomes consul to Emperor Caracalla.
One key actress who returned for the sequel was Connie Neilsen, who plays Lucilla, Lucius' mother and wife to Acacius. However there isn’t much of a character development for her. She continues to make the same mistakes she made in the first movie to save her son.
I would have liked to see a bit more of a development in her character in both movies. I feel she could have played a bigger part, but was just always driven by the need to save her son from both emperors, Commodus and the twins. The second movie especially, she puts her trust in the wrong people and soon meets her fate, in an anticlimactic final battle in the colosseum.
In my opinion the battle scenes and the conflict between Lucius and Acacius are the most interesting parts of the movie.
There definitely could have been more development in the characters, the movie seemed a bit rushed, even though it was over two hours long. But the references to the first movie and the acting are what make this movie a worthy watch.
And let's be honest, everyone wants to see a shirtless sweaty Paul Mescal fighting on their screen. With big name actors such as Mescal, Pacal, Washington, Neilsen, Quinn and Hechinger, it is no surpirse that the movie is among Scott's top-grossing films sitting at $368 million so far.
ABBY TURNER RATING: 4.5/5
PHOTO COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES
"Gladiator II" premiered on November 22 making $221 million on openeing weekend, Nov. 22.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PICTURES
Lucius (left) disarms General Acacius (right) in a battle inside the Roman Colosseum during Gladiator II, Nov. 22.
WICHITAN'S PLAYLIST VOL. 3
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANO
Social Media Manager Aaron Burrows: "Be Your Man" by Amano and Rayondré
PHOTO COURTESY OF LA LA LAND RECORDS
Entertainment Editor Sabrina Harrison: "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch" by Jim Carrey
PHOTO COURTESY OF REPUBLIC RECORDS
Photography Editor Sam DiFiore: "Dancing in the Flames" by The Weekend
PHOTO COURTESY OF TORREZ MUSIC GROUP
Managing Editor Abby Turner: "Chase You Down" by Braxton Keith
PHOTO COURTESY OF GOLD FOREVER MUSIC Editor-in-Chief George Svoboda: "Red Hot Mama" by Funkadelic
PHOTO COURTESY OF TOUCHSTONE PICTURES Sports Editor Jessica Binzari: "Desdomona" by The Beaches
PHOTO COURTESY OF ECCENTRIC RECORDS
Design Editor Tiffany Haggard: "Always On My Mind" by Nané
PHOTO COURTESY OF GUILLERMO SÁNCHEZ Advisor Jonathon Quam: "Si No Es Hoy Cuando Es" by Dame Area