The Student Newspaper of MSU Denver
mymetmedia.com
VOL. 42 NO. 2
@themetonline
AUGUST 21, 2019
themetropolitan
A champ finds his wings New track coach “guarantees” success
Photo by James Burky | jburky@msudenver.edu
MSU Denver track and field head coach Nicholas Lara leans against a window on Aug. 20 at the Regency Athletic Complex in Denver. Lara was a seven-time national champion in cross country and track and field at Adams State University.
opportunity, and he wants to strike rich.
By James Burky
only strengthens that perception. He
men’s and women’s cross country teams
competed for Adams State University,
at Adams State, has known Lara since
he said, glancing at the skyline. “My goal
then Adams State College, from 2005-
the future national champion runner
is to show that MSU Denver is not a place
08, winning seven national titles.
could only crawl. Then, Martin saw him
jburky@msudenver.edu
“There’s unlimited untapped potential,”
Nicholas Lara leaned back in the leather chair of his new office in the MSU Denver
you settle for, it’s your destination.”
Administration building. He’s the new
The Alamosa native is aiming to
Lara exudes competitiveness. Anywhere
head coach for the men’s and women’s
he goes, he’s determined to succeed.
MSU Denver Cross Country teams. One
Though it’s merely an abstract concept,
of the perks of the job is a window that
his desire to win is almost tangible,
overlooks the heart of one of the country’s
driving him to carefully consider his
most vibrant cities. Denver is teeming with
next word or action. Learning his history
INSIDE
NEWS
| pg. 2
OPINION
develop into one of the fastest kids in
be a Roadrunner legend, and he’s had
town. Lara would often race kids for the
success in all of his previous stops.
hell of it. It was always a challenge for him to see how hard he could book it.
The Athlete Damon Martin, the head coach of the
| pg. 4
FEATURES
| pg. 6
| Continued on pg. 9
SPORTS
| pg. 8
Paths are forged at MSU Denver
Wow, look at all of these stars I can’t
King Gizzard thrash and shred on
Sanders and Chubb will highlight
student Convocation
see at night
another successful album
Broncos’ 2019 season
NEWS
2
AUGUST 21, 2019
MSU Denver is a convocation of stories
Student body’s past, present and future stories converge By Brady Pieper
Denver’s all-time success stories
bpieper3@msudenver.edu
carrying his on-air broadcasting talents to a small market in
Your story is what defines you.
Cheyanne, Wyoming. Striewski
It is what makes you who you are,
made the leap to an NBC affiliate
but most importantly your story is
in Houston, Texas 16 months later
a great indicator for where you’ll
before making his next jump to the
end up. MSU Denver is home to
New England Sports Network.
many stories, and the university
“Those were the official minor
prides itself on the diverse cultures
leagues before ESPN. They had a
within the student body. With
SportsCenter Snapchat platform
45% of the school identifying as
that they wanted to roll out and it
people of color, the story for one’s
was a good fit for me,” Striewski
enrollment can change drastically
said. “I haven’t looked back since.”
based on who you speak with. Realizing one’s journey was
Striewski has made the major leagues for sports broadcast —
key to the annual MSU Denver
ESPN is the elite tier for athletic
called Convocation, which took
journalism. As a former MSU
place on Aug. 15, where the
Denver graduate, Striewski’s career
university celebrated the incoming
made him the perfect choice for
freshman class’ decision to enroll.
MSU Denver success stories. MSU
Convocation can be considered
Denver President Janine Davidson
a warm welcome from MSU
extended an offer to Striewski to
Denver to all new Roadrunners.
speak to the fresh faces of incoming Photos by James Burky | jburky@msudenver.edu
Roadrunners at the Convocation.
The Major Leagues
The ESPN host energized the crowd of wide-eyed freshmen and
Flashback to 2010. Gary
their families. Striewski’s story
Striewski, a young, bright-eyed
led him back to the university
journalism student, graduated
that initially sent him off.
from MSU Denver. His story as a roadrunner started after
students that are peer mentors for
throughout my whole life.”
other Roadrunners on campus.
Making a difference
transferring from Colorado State University in pursuit of bigger and
MSU Denver alumnus and current ESPN sportscaster Gary Striewski tosses pencils into the audience at the MSU Denver Convocation on Aug. 15 in the King Center Concert Hall on the Auraria Campus in Denver. Striewski, a former member of The Met Report, was the keynote speaker for the event.
Hunter Elspas, an MSU Denver junior and Roadways peer mentor,
People wearing red shirts labeled
friends, although their stories began long before enrollment.
Every story begins with a step
was one of the 87 “Roadways Crew”
Garcia and Nino got to enjoy the convocation experience — an experience you only get once.
better opportunities in downtown
“Roadways Crew” littered the King
members enjoying the Convocation
Convocation would be nothing
Denver. Through internships with
Center and Jordan Student Success
festivities on Thursday. The Arvada
without the incoming Roadrunners.
welcoming and honestly a
Denver’s biggest news channels,
Building lawn for Convocation.
West High School graduate began
A celebration of one’s decision
lot of fun,” Garcia said.
Strewski never forgot what
MSU Denver’s Roadways is a
his journey to MSU Denver through
to apply, be accepted, and enroll
being a Roadrunner means.
program that provides support for
his grade school teachers.
at MSU Denver is just the start to
“Everybody is friends
all students and improve retention
“I was asking some of my
one’s collegiate journey. Two new,
“Everything was really
Where the paths converge
and family,” Striewski said.
throughout one’s tenure at MSU
teachers in high school about
anxious Roadrunners stepped foot
“We’re all Roadrunners.”
Denver. The Roadways crew
colleges,” Elspas said. “Mr.
on campus along with herds of
Campus many identifable staples:
consists of current MSU Denver
Olsen, a big inspiration for me,
others for Convocation on Thursday.
a beautiful view, history — beer.
Striewski became one of MSU
told me that his wife graduated from MSU Denver and loved it.”
thing the university is known for
semester at MSU Denver, stepped
is the diversity of stories. At one
applying to MSU Denver and said he
onto the Student Success Building
point or another, individuals at MSU
felt super excited when accepted.
lawn together. Standing side
Denver have found the university
by side just as they have since
to be a part of their ongoing story.
confident in college because I am a
middle school, MSU Denver was
Whether one is at the top of their
first generation student,” he said.
a natural choice for them.
respective field like Gary Striewski
“I was never that person to be
He also said that it was an
Convocation marked Garcia’s
with ESPN, or if someone’s story is
aspirational moment for him when
third and Nino’s second time on
just beginning like the new freshman
he got accepted into college.
campus, fortunately close to home.
at Convocation, the university
The Roadways program attracted
“For me, it was the knowledge
Elspas. Peer mentoring and student
that I didn’t have to stay in
interactions are at the heart of the
dorms,” Garcia said.
organization — Elspas fits right
“It’s really close to home,
offers a variety of opportunities. “MSU Denver will give you the essential skills that employers want,” Davidson said in a
in. Convocation is an extension
so we can just travel back
packed King Center Recital Hall
of how his story progresses.
and forth,” Nino added.
to the hundreds of Convocation
“Initially, I was very nervous
faculty at the MSU Denver Convocation on Aug. 15 in the King Center Concert Hall on the Auraria Campus in Denver.
But arguably the most undervalued
best friends attending their first
Elspas made his first step in
Travis Jensen, a member of Mariachi Los Correcaminos de MSU Denver, passionately strums while performing in front of students, parents, and
Cielo Garcia and Leslie Nino,
MSU Denver and Auraria
The two friends spent four
trying to talk to students in
years together at Adams City High
my class. Through First Year
School in Commerce City before
Success, I met a lot of friends,”
deciding to attend MSU Denver.
Elspas said. “My coworkers, I
Garcia came the Unviersity for the
consider them all friends because
school’s criminal justice program.
not only do we work together,
Nino intends to pursue a
but we live our lives together.
degree in computer science.
I’ve made deeper connections with the people here then I have
Convocation was just a step forward for the two best
attendees. “This is your community now. You are a Roadrunner.” MSU Denver’s convocation is an event where all stories convocate. “This is your place. This is your school,” Davidson said. “You belong at MSU Denver.”
OPINIONS
4
AUGUST 21, 2019
Why I’m trying to eat better on a college budget
staff Editor-in-Chief
D
on’t get me wrong, I
or combine things differently
Now, Northwestern University’s
James Burky jburky@msudenver.edu
appreciate the smattering
than the book says to do.
media outlet, claims that failure
Managing Editor
to eat enough healthy foods and
Megan Webber mwebber6@msudenver.edu
of fairly-affordable food options
In college, it’s easy to take
Auraria Campus has to offer. I’ll
the fast, fun, seemingly-cheap
exercise often at a young age
gladly hit up Starbucks before my
option and get takeout with
can increase the risk of cancer
morning class, iPie or Biker Jim’s
friends, but those costs add up
later in life. Whether or not
Herman Guzman-Ibarra hguzmani@msudenver.edu
for lunch and stop at the Tivoli for
until you’re broke. While living
the average college student’s
Features Editor
a beer before I head home. But
on one trip to the grocery store
eating habits are putting him or
after a few weeks of this, my mind,
a week seems less preferable,
her in that dire of a situation,
body and wallet have had enough.
it’s more financially sensible and
healthy eating is still crucial —
Sports Editor
can also be much healthier.
and possible — in college.
Will Satler wsatler@msudenver.edu
I wish I’d learned how to cook before college, but the kitchen never held much interest
Megan Webber
According to healthline, buying
At the end of a long week of
News Editor
Brady Pieper bpieper3@msudenver.edu
Assistant Sports Editor
whole foods at grocery stores
classes and eating food packed
is beneficial because they have
from home, the extra money in
enough nutrients to fill you up so
your back pocket will be there for
you won’t need that second burger
your Friday beer or whatever you
for every meal, I’m trying to
from McDonald’s. A can of beans,
like to splurge on. At least, that’s
Kaileigh Lyons klyons9@msudenver.edu
become more appreciative of
a block of cheese and a package
what I’m hoping my financial
Design Editor Zhen Tang ztang@msudenver.edu
for me when I was younger. Because I like to eat and I don’t have enough money to eat out
mwebber6@msudenver.edu
good home cooking and, if I can,
recipes that can be whipped
of tortillas can make enough
situation will look like once I
I like to try my hand at it. I like
up in a sometimes surprisingly
breakfast burritos or quesadillas
grow up and learn how to cook.
to ask people how they cook
short amount of time. There is a
to last at least a week. Healthline
certain foods, I often consult
recipe for gumbo, which can take
also says that planning your
Megan Webber is a fourth year
the food sections in the New
a whole day to cook if you go
meals and sticking to your grocery
journalism major with a minor
York Times and the Washington
full-on bayou style, but Franco’s
list is a more physically and
in linguistics at MSU Denver.
Post, and I’ve even bought a
recipe only takes half an hour
financially healthy way of eating.
She is currently the Managing
few of my own cookbooks.
to make. She tells you how long
The one I use the most is “The
With the lack of fresh fruits and
Editor of The Metropolitan and interning at KGNU in Boulder.
Taylor Mead tmead1@msudenver.edu Photo Editor
Spanish Editor Sarah Lease sarah.lease@cudenver.edu Copy Editor Daniel Sutton dsutton3@msudenver.edu Director of Met Media
each meal will take to prepare
vegetables served on campus, it’s
Really Useful Ultimate Student
and how easy they are, and she
no surprise that college students
Steve Haigh shaigh@msudenver.edu
Cookbook” by Silvana Franco. This
also gives you the freedom as
are living an unhealthy lifestyle.
Assistant Director of Met Media
thing is chock-full of quick, healthy
the chef to add other ingredients
An article from Northwestern
Ronan O’Shea roshea3@msudenver.edu Production Manager of Met Media Kathleen Jewby kjewby@msudenver.edu
Star light, star bright, stars I can’t see at night T
he winter months are my
pursuit of the seven sisters of the
With modern technology and
favorite. I’ve never been one for
Pleiades. In reality, the Pleiades
modern engineering, we can curtail
the ire of the summer sun, or the
is a cluster of hot stars, the kind
the mindless spill of light. Intelligent
parade of springtime blossoms. The
that burn bright and die fast in the
street lights can dim throughout the
dark, still air of a winter midnight
interstellar sense. Their place in our
night instead of casting a constant
fills my lungs with life, and the pearl
night sky isn’t unique to Euro-centric
glow that at dusk just suffices
belt of Orion the hunter hanging
cultures either. In Japan, they are
but in the dark more than meets
in the firmament never fails to
known as “Subaru,” and their sense
our needs. Well-designed traffic
captivate my eyes. I’ve lived in
of unity inspired the so-named
signals needn’t be as intense in the
the same house for 22 years and I
automaker’s moniker and badge.
evening as they are in the light of
can remember in the depths of my
Across the northern hemisphere,
day. It can seem insignificant in a
they’re woven into myth and
world confounded on all fronts by
legend and even everyday life.
problems to pine for starry nights,
childhood recollections that same winter’s sight greeting me. Fortune favors my frosty stargazing. I live across from a park devoid of light,
Daniel Sutton
Only on the darkest nights of
but as much as we must tackle
my youth could I admire Orion’s
those very important issues, we
quarry. But I cannot remember the
can’t allow ourselves to forget to
failings have kept local street lights
last time I saw them. Our growing
nourish our deeper needs. I miss the
dark. It all conspires to give me a
metropolis has slowly blotted out
wonder I felt looking up at the night
one night sight after another.
sky of my youth. I decry the thought
and the City of Aurora’s bureaucratic
dsutton3@msudenver.edu
pool of darkness in the suburban
Los Angeles light up the night sky. In
glow. But even with all those cosmic
Colorado, you can easily check the
For countless generations, we
coincidences, I can glimpse but
fact for yourself. A quick nighttime
all shared in that night sky, in the
be denied even those memories.
the merest shred of humanity’s
trip west to Arapaho National Forest
cascades of the Milky Way and the
It’s time we try and take our night
oldest common heritage.
— nestled in our resident mountains
myriad wonders that lay beyond it.
back from our endless light.
— or north towards the Minuteman
For the last few centuries, though —
the International Dark Sky
III strewn Pawnee National
since the first oil street lamps cast
Association and other similarly
Grasslands will testify to the fact
their meager light — we’ve slowly
studying political science at MSU
invested organizations can talk
that even in our illuminations
lost this once-cherished treasure. It
Denver. He is currently a copy
about how, from hundreds of miles
we are incredible polluters.
is time we consider whether we’re
editor for The Metropolitan.
Astronomers Without Borders,
away, the glow of major cities like
In legend, Orion is in perpetual
that younger generations may
Daniel Sutton is a senior
content with that state of affairs.
Have an article you’d like to contribute? Want to voice your thoughts on a current event or subject that has been covered in the paper? Send your pieces to themetonline@gmail.com or Managing Editor Megan Webber at mwebber6@msudenver.edu
Office Manager Elizabeth Norberg enorbert@msudenver.edu Sales and Marketing sales@mymetmedia.com marketing@mymetmedia.com Brady Nelson bnelso73@msudenver.edu
What we do
The Metropolitan accepts submissions in the form of topic-driven columns and letters to the editor. Column article concepts must be submitted by 1 p.m. Thursdays and the deadline for columns is 9 p.m. Sundays. Columns range from 500 to 600 words. Letters to the editor must be submitted by 5 p.m. Mondays to be printed in that week’s edition. There is a 500-word limit for letters to the editor. The Metropolitan reserves the right to edit letters for formatting and style. All submissions should be sent by email to themetonline@gmail.com. The Metropolitan is produced by and for the students of Metropolitan State University of Denver and serves the Auraria Campus. The Metropolitan is supported by advertising revenue and student fees and is published every Wednesday during the academic year and monthly during the summer semester. Opinions expressed within do not necessarily reflect those of MSU Denver or Met Media’s advertisers.
@ the Find Your Voice
MyMetMedia.com
@MyMetMedia @MyMetMedia @MyMetMedia
• August 29, 2019 • 1-4 p.m. • JSSB Lawn
REVIEWS
6
AUGUST 21, 2019
New King Gizzard album is a banger and a bummer By James Burky
metal awesomeness. The clean
possibility. The topics tackled in
jburky@msudenver.edu
production on Michael Cavanagh’s
“Rats Nest,” however, are very
drums adds the cherry on top, and
real. Sure, “Superbug” sounds
rounds out a 9-track, 34-minute
a little over the top, but World
experience of doomsday grooves.
Health Organization warnings over
Indie darlings King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard continue to tackle climate change on
To understand “Infest the Rats’
the last few years highlight the
their most poignant LP to date,
Nest,” though, the listener needs
risk of resistant infections, and the
“Infest the Rats’ Nest.”
to dissect the story being told
declining usability of antibiotics.
over the apocalyptic melodies.
Side A seems disjointed to the
King Gizzard has built a reputation for being eclectic
“Rat’s Nest” is a two-part
clear narrative of Side B. But when
and working at the speed of
concept album that takes real-
clarity dissipates, the sheer anger
a cocaine-addict on adderall.
world rumblings and fears to
of the band members — not the
They released five albums in
create dystopian fiction. Side
characters — are shown in full.
2017 and have dropped 15 total
A takes an abstract approach.
in seven years. “Rats’ Nest” is
The first two songs, “Planet B”
story isn’t the most satisfying
the follow-up to March 2019’s
and “Mars for the Rich,” halt
and even a bit convoluted, that
“Fishing for Fishies,” which took
discussion of Mars colonization,
a lighthearted, boogie approach
fearing that the rich will leave
to addressing environmentalism
a ruined earth behind. The next
and climate change.
two songs, “Organ Farmer”
The New Zealand outfit sounds
and “Superbug,” address fears
While the ending to the
could be the point. Everyone Photo obtained from King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard.
dies if climate change is ignored. There are no happy endings.
Infest the Rats’ Nest is the fifteenth studio album by Australian psychedelic rock band King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. It was released on Aug. 16.
“Infest the Rats’ Nest” is not a critique of the systems that have
more in their element on “Rats’
that have no direct connection
Nest” than on its predecessor.
in terms of narrative, but help
Stu McKenzie’s vocals are a
establish precedent for the
hijack spaceships carrying
atmosphere and immediately
the path we’re on could be leading
growl, seamlessly fitting in with
second half of the album.
colonies and fly to Venus for
combusts into flames. The rebels
to the planet’s doom. Leave it
a new home. As evidenced by
are then sent to the underworld
to King Gizzard and the Lizard
in the aptly-titled closer, “Hell.”
Wizard for making impending
the heavy crunches of the guitar
Side B, or the Venusian
allowed climate change to run rampant. It’s the realization that
work of himself, Cook Craig,
storyline, tells the story of people
the doom of the previous four
and Joey Walker. When given
left on Earth rebelling against the
tracks, each as apocalyptic and
the time to shine, Walker’s bass
rich for allowing superbugs to
heavy as the next, this doesn’t
element of fiction strong enough
lines tie the melodies together,
deteriorate health, harvesting the
end well. Two groups of rebels
to detach the audience from the
such as on the second-song
insides of the poor and leaving
set course to Venus: one plunges
story. The “Mad Max” films, for
“Mars for the Rich.” All of this
them to die while escaping to
into the sun while confessing
example, are absurd enough
creates a fiery sundae of thrash
Mars. In their revolt, the rebels
their sins, the other enters Venus’
to keep them from the realm of
Most dystopian media has an
doom sound so damn good.
Retrospective Review: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy By Will Satler
“All of the Lights” peaked at number
wsatler@msudenver.edu
18. “Runaway” peaked at number
on “Lost in the World,” a
12 on the Hot 100 chart and was
four minute and 16 second
accompanied by a 35-minute short
song that was the spark of his
film that was directed by West.
marriage with Kim Kardashian.
Yo Taylor, I’m really happy for you, I’ma let you finish, but I think “My Beautiful Dark Twisted” Fantasy is Kanye West’s best album. Features from Kid Cudi,
An impressive list of
His lyrical genius is featured
In a 2013 interview with New
accolades was added to West’s
York’s 92.3 NOW, West talks
collection with “My Beautiful
about his biggest inspiration.
JAY-Z, and John Legend are just
Dark Twisted Fantasy,” but the
a tiny sample of the long list of
album has a unique consistency
first met, but I knew that that
contributors to West’s fifth studio
of quality that only the most
was my wife,” said West. “To
album. Released on November 22,
successful albums have.
write that for someone who had
2010, the album went two-time RIAA
The album opens with a
“I don’t remember when we
inspired me to love, to create, to
Platinum by January — just two
narration from hip-hop star, Nicki
be an artist — she’s my biggest
months after its release. The album
Minaj, and the first line of the
inspiration and I was so happy
even went Platinum in Australia.
song plays “I fantasized ‘bout
that it worked on that song.”
Often called a “genre-bending
this back in Chicago.” West’s
The lyrics for the song
masterpiece,” West’s critically
deep Windy City background
were actually from a poem
acclaimed album was influenced
is the theme of the album with
he emailed to Kardashian
by his deteriorating relationship
him returning to his roots.
before they were married.
with model Amber Rose. While the album itself was
Over one hour, eight minutes
GQ, Rolling Stone and
and 36 seconds, “My Beautiful
Complex all rank “My Beautiful
seminal, the way West marketed the
Dark Twisted Fantasy” is not only
Dark Twisted Fantasy” as one
album and released the singles was
arguably West’s best album, but
of the greatest albums of the
trailblazing. West released “Power,”
one of the greatest albums ever,
decade with 1.3 million copies
“Monster,” “Runaway” and “All of
in hip-hop or not. Entertainment
sold in the United States alone.
the Lights” through GOOD Fridays,
Weekly ranked Dark Fantasy along
which he used to release weekly
with The Beatles’ “Revolver,”
toast for West’s “My Beautiful Dark and producer Kanye West. It was released on Nov. 22, 2010.
free music. “Power” peaked at
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and
Twisted Fantasy” as it bent the
number 22 on the US Billboard Hot
Prince’s “Purple Rain” as the
hip-hop genre as we once knew it.
100 chart, and both “Monster” and
greatest albums of all time in 2016.
So it’s time for us to have a
Photo obtained from Def Jam Recordings.
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is the fifth studio album by American rapper
AUGUST 21, 2019
FEATURES
7
The pursuit of sounds unheard
One musician’s passion has carried him through the rabbit hole of melody
By Brady Pieper bpieper3@msudenver.edu “Country tones meet balladic indie, brooding folk music waltzing with dark and portentous pop music…it’s difficult to really pin down, but then all of the best songs are.” — Dave Franklin, Dancing About Architecture A musician’s journey into mastering the melodic media form called music is one traveled by many and mastered by few. Similarly, a listener has a long road ahead of them if one wishes to discover all genres of music. Greg Smith, an acoustic rock musician, has spent decades mixing and improving his music. In the world of music, a great place to start as a musician or listener is rock — Smith did. “And I haven’t looked back,” he said. Smith’s start in sound began as a child, playing the piano in
Photos obtained from Greg Smith.
the basement of his family home. Years of practicing music led to the
Promotional photo of acoustic rock artist Greg Smith. His new album, “Waiting for the Truth” was released earlier in 2019.
production of his own recording studio. After years of musicians
the longest, because you’re writing
he experienced with his first album.
I learned along the way — things
driving from Savannah, Georgia
coming in and Smith producing
it all your life,” Smith said. “What if
The hard turnaround for a follow-
that are now second nature on the
and Jeremy from New York. Their
music, Smith saw an opportunity
we did didn’t do a second album?”
up production can be difficult.
ninth album,” Smith said. “Part of
musical journey has carried them
“It is the second album
it is to just write in your own key.”
through dozens of states, seeing
Smith’s most recent album,
some of the most beautiful sights
to branch out and expand on his music career. Smith and his friend Rich Krentz wrote songs along with producing music. After realizing their potential, the band, The Far Cry was formed. But after scheduling
“The first album always takes the longest because you’re writing it all your life.” – Greg Smith
conflicts with Krentz, Smith was
which is hard because you have to do it in a year or two.” Smith’s development as a musician has consistently changed through his time as a
“Waiting for the Truth,” has incorporated the lessons he learned throughout his musical career. “Smith’s most recent
that the country has to offer. “We are going to grab some food and maybe some drinks,” said Jeremy about their stay in Colorado.
performer. From producing music
album release can be read as a
“We are gonna go to Arrowhead
in a homemade recording studio to
pastiche that pays homage to
Golf Course. We will rent some
a reality under the title, “Next
writing, recording and editing music,
the chromaticism and eclectic
clubs and have a good day.”
the First,” sought to tell a story that
Time Around.” The challenges the
Smith has changed a lot as an artist.
juxtapositions found on later
has never seen the light of day.
musician faced during recording
influenced to try music solo. Smith’s first solo album, “Album
“The first album always takes
The second album became
the second album were from those
“I didn’t know certain things when I started the first album that
Beatles’ albums,” said MSU Denver musicologist and theorist Erik Peterson. Peterson also is a founding member and violist for the Voxare String Quartet. One’s interpretation of music can be far different from another’s. The same can be attributed to how someone develops music. Smith’s advice to musicians spans from promoting through social media and keeping albums cheap, but self expression holds a very important place in his heart. “Go ahead, express yourself,
“Waiting for the Truth” is Greg Smith’s ninth solo album..
go nuts,” Smith said. “Don’t do what somebody else is doing and
the music industry. A-list artists
you’re on the wrong track, you’re
like Drake and Taylor Swift
probably on the right track.”
dominate the headlines, so it can
In the pursuit of sounds unheard,
be difficult for Smith to break
Smith’s campaign of musical
through, but he is content with his
composition has led him to many
self-proclaimed “B-circuit” title.
places. Touring and promotional
Rock is a musical genre that has
tours have provided an opportunity
been underlooked recently. Smith
for Smith and his son Jeremy.
has seen this as an opportunity
Traveling around the country has
to pursue sounds unheard.
become a staple for the duo, Smith
Promotional photo of acoustic rock artist Greg Smith.
It is hard to make ground in
if somebody else tells you that
SPORTS
8
AUGUST 21, 2019
Broncos return with plenty of story lines By Will Satler
December was a highlight of the game and a
wsatler@msudenver.edu
welcome sight for Broncos fans despite the offense’s struggles so far in the preseason.
The hype around Broncos football
“I almost started crying in the tunnel,”
in Denver is growing after a long
said Sanders in an interview with Broncos
offseason of question marks surrounding
senior digital reporter Andrew Mason. “I
a once-dominant franchise.
feel like I’ve grown a lot in the past eight
The Broncos returned Monday with less
months. I don’t take any of it for granted.”
than a month till Week 1, when they take
A small glimpse of what a Sanders–
on the Raiders at Oakland-Alameda County
Joe Flacco connection could be in Denver
Coliseum on Monday Night Football.
was showcased on a 45-yard strike in the
After three preseason games, there are some clear takeaways from Vic Fangio’s squad
first half which was ultimately negated by a Garett Bolles’ holding call.
and how they are going to look come the 2019-
“I feel like the chemistry is there,”
2020 regular season. San Francisco 49ers’
Sanders said. “We’ve still got three weeks
quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s 0.0 QB rating
to keep getting better and keep growing,
and scoreless appearance makes it clear that
and have him get used to my speed.”
this defense, headlined by All-Pro Von Miller
The Bolles’ holding call was just a
and exciting young defensive end Bradley
microcosm of the issues the Broncos face
Chubb are a force to be reckoned with.
for the upcoming season as penalties and
Chubb’s strip-sack on 49ers’ backup
Photo obtained from AP Photo by Jack Dempsey
Denver Broncos Bradley Chubb prepares to hit San Francisco 49ers quarterback C.J. Beathard during a preseason football game on Aug. 19 in Denver.
inconsistencies on special teams are a
his facemask and Cracraft had just 12
reached the playoffs in the three seasons
quarterback C.J. Beathard and Isaac Yiadom’s
reccurant problem. Denver ranked third
yards in two return opportunities.
that followed winning Super Bowl 50.
first quarter interception on Garoppolo
in total penalties last year, only trailing
were key demonstrations that Fangio’s
Indianapolis and Kansas City, while racking
that’s two weeks in a row our special teams
how dominant the defense has looked.
defense will be this team’s saving grace
up 149 flags in 400 fewer plays than the teams
has gotten whipped,” Fangio told Mason.
Should the offense be in mid-season
throughout the season. In a division loaded
ahead of them, according to nflpenalties.com.
“We’re going to have to get it fixed.”
form with a new crew on Aug. 19? You’re
with quarterback talent like reigning-MVP
Special teams have been just as
“Yeah, big-time concerns, because
Broncos fans should be overjoyed at
Just preseason games against the
crazy if you thought it would be, and it’s
Patrick Mahomes, future hall-of-famer Phillip
inconsistent so far this preseason, as wide
Los Angeles Rams and Arizona Cardinals
Rivers and three-time pro bowler Derek
receivers River Cracraft, Nick Williams
stand between the Broncos and games
Carr, this defense will need to be stout.
and Kelvin McKnight took turns returning
that count, leaving just the right number
on Monday all without a glimpse of
of questions for a team with a new head
success. Williams fumbled the ball off
coach, new quarterback and who haven’t
Monday’s remarkable return of wide-out Emmanuel Sanders from a torn achilles last
not wild to think it can get there soon.
Men’s soccer steps onto field for first time By James Burky jburky@msudenver.edu There’s a lot of needed change for the MSU Denver men’s soccer team in Fall 2019. The moment they set foot on the
Tittle’s tenure was marred by inconsistency and roster turnover. After posting winning records in 2015 and
pitch at the Regency Athletic Complex
2016, Tittle’s teams didn’t surpass a .500
to start their exhibition match against
winning percentage in 2017 or 2018.
Laramie County Community College on Sunday, a fresh season began. 2018 was a tough one for the
To make matters worse, the Roadrunners lost sixteen players before last season began.
Roadrunners in more ways than one. On top of the usual haul of freshmen and transfers, the Roadrunners have a
The Roadrunners’ regular season will begin against St. Mary’s University on Sept. 6 in San Antonio.
new head honcho on the sidelines. Hank Lewis, formerly of the Air Force Academy and Colorado School of Mines,
They will open Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play on Sept. 13 against Regis University in Denver.
takes on the role of head coach after the school parted ways with Jeremy Tittle.
Photo by Kaileigh Lyons | klyons9@msudenver.edu
Stay tuned for an in-depth preview next week.
Head coach Hank Lewis gives the MSU Denver men’s soccer team feedback during a break in their exhibition game against Laramie County Community College at the Regency Athletic Complex on Aug. 18.
Photo by Kaileigh Lyons | klyons9@msudenver.edu
Photo by James Burky | jburky@msudenver.edu
Photo by Kaileigh Lyons | klyons9@msudenver.edu
Gianni Steijlen yells to his team from the sidelines.
MSU Denver midfielder Bryce Montes prepares to head a corner kick.
Freshman Jerry Gutierrez slides to the ground for the ball.
SPORTS
AUGUST 21, 2019
New track, cross country coach Lara up to the challenge for the Chicago Bears. In regard to that transition
“I just loved to see how fast
$33,000. That’s a lot of money
country teams, instantly knew who
for aspiring chefs to fork over to
she wanted to fill the role — the
Lara has a couple of legs up
run for a brand new team whose
same guy who torched her old
on Singletary and Thomas.
I could run,” Lara said. “When I was 12, I competed at a national race in Pennsylvania hosted by Hershey. I was one of the few to not have a coach or be sponsored by a club. I finished seventh.” Martin kept his eye on Lara at Alamosa High School as he won
Cristopher, who heads the cross
from playing to coaching,
By James Burky
jburky@msudenver.edu
website, yearly tuition hovers over
“I think one of the toughest things about coaching is that you have to learn to relate to the athletes.” – Nicholas Lara
two 4A state titles in track and field. And once Lara graduated,
Lara spent time as a graduate
Colorado School of Mines teams
“I’m going to make people want to be here, and we’re going to win. I can guarantee that.” – Nicholas Lara
on the track over a decade ago. “As soon as Trent resigned, I texted Nick asking him if he was interested in applying,” Christopher said. “It was frustrating, But I always respected
practice field was a public park.
him. He was a really tough
“That may have been my
competitor, but he was also
toughest moment as a coach,”
somebody that my guys respected
Lara said. “I literally had to build a
and that they felt comfortable just
he pulled the trigger and made
assistant at Adams State before
program, but there were kids out
having a conversation with them.”
him an Adams State Grizzly.
becoming an assistant coach
there looking for their chance.”
Lara was hired as the head track
There was something about his
with Southern Connecticut
new recruit’s attitude that gave
State University, being named
year stint, 16 of his athletes
assistant on Aug. 6. Now, he faces
Martin the hunch that Lara was
DII’s east region assistant
had qualified for the National
another uphill battle — bring the
going to be more ferocious than
coach of the year in 2011.
Association of Intercollegiate
Roadrunners to relevance. MSU
Athletics (NAIA) championships.
Denver’s track and field teams
Lara was done, he thought.
have seen plenty of individual
most runners in the program. “I knew he was going to
“I think one of the toughest things about coaching is that
At the end of Lara’s three-
and field coach and Christopher’s
be great. What set him apart
you have to learn to relate to the
In 2017, he co-founded Defiance
runners, but the same can’t be said
was his competitiveness and
athletes,” Lara said. “You can’t
Health, a company that specializes
for team success. The men haven’t
work ethic,” says Martin.
just talk to them as athletes, but
in nutrition and exercise. There
placed at the NCAA Outdoor
as kids going through problems.”
was only one job that he’d
Championships since 2014 and the
In 2014, Lara moved back to
return to the sidelines for.
women have only been invited four
There’s a common trait among athletes, Martin said. They tend to stick to their guns and perfect
Colorado as Johnson and Wales
their strengths, often putting less
University’s inaugural track and
times since the start of the decade.
emphasis on their weaknesses.
field coach. Building the team up
But no ordinary athlete wins
from nothing was a challenge.
seven national titles in four
Johnson and Wales is a culinary
head coach of the MSU Denver
want to be here, and we’re
years, those feats are reserved
school first, not one for athletics.
track and field teams at the end
going to win,” he said. “I
for ones that put in extra.
According to the University’s
of the 2019 spring season, Janis
can guarantee that.”
The Roadrunner
Lara is determined to change that.
When Trent Mack resigned as
“I’m going to make people
Martin and his coaching staff knew that Lara could book it like few others, but they challenged
9
ROADRUNNER BRIEFS Volleyball comes in fifth in preseason RMAC poll After three consecutive Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Tournament title game` appearances, the Roadrunners were selected to finish fifth, as voted on by the league’s coaches. Alyssa Kelling is the lone returning senior for coach Jenny Glenn. Colorado School of Mines received the most votes in the conference. Colorado Mesa University, Dixie State University and Regis University were the other schools ahead of MSU Denver in the poll.
Former Roadrunner to play in FIBA World Cup When Australia comes to play Team USA in exhibition basketball matches this week, former Roadrunner center Nick Kay will suit up for the team from down under. Kay will join NBA players Patty Mills, Joe Ingles and Matthew Dellavedova for games at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on Thursday and Friday and can be seen on NBA TV at 3:30 a.m. MDT and 10 p.m. MDT.
Women’s golf picked to finish eighth in RMAC MSU Denver recieved one firstplace vote overall in the poll after finishing seventh last year in the RMAC. Their season gets started on Sept. 9-10 at the Farmers Sam Proal Invintational at the Pueblo Country Club and is led by senior Jennifer Hankins, who has averaged a career stroke of 79.72, which is fourth-best in program history. Hankins was selected a preseason player to watch as was her teammate, Kika Dzoan.
him to work on his endurance and run cross country. It seemed like a tall order to get one of Division II’s best track runners to transfer that success to cross country. At the end of the season, Lara was named to the country’s all-cross country team. Because – of course he was.
The Coach Stud athletes become dud coaches more often than you
Former MSU Denver baseball player Malkin knocking on the MLB door
might think. Isaiah Thomas is simultaneously one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and one of the worst coaches in the 21st Century. A whole generation of football fans think of Mike Singletary more as a failed coach Photo by James Burky | jburky@msudenver.edu
with the San Francisco 49ers than as a legendary linebacker
New Roadrunner’s head men’s and women’s cross country coach, Nicholas Lara, in front of the Regency Athletic Complex in Denver on Aug. 20.
CROSS COUNTRY SCHEDULE Sept. 7 UCCS Rust Buster Invitational Location Colorado Springs
Oct. 5 Roadrunner Invitational Location Denver
Oct. 26 RMAC Championships Location Grand Junction
Price Free
Price Free
Price Free
Time TBA
Time TBA
Time TBA
After one of the best statistical seasons in Roadrunner baseball history, former catcher Matt Malkin was called up to the Sacramento River Cats, the triple A affiliate of the San Fransisco Giants. Malkin went undrafted in the 2019 MLB amateur player draft and was signed as a free agent by the Giants in June.
EVENTS
10
AUGUST 21, 2019
MSU DENVER EVENTS
Welcome Week: Student Involvement Fair Date Location
Aug. 21 Tivoli Quad
LOCAL EVENTS
Auditions: “Two Gentlemen of Verona” Date Location
Aug. 21 - 22 KC Courtyard Theater
Cirque du Soleil: Corteo Date Location
Aug. 15 - 22 Pepsi Center
Chicago Date Location
Aug. 1 - 25 Ellie Caulkins Opera House
Price
Free
Price
Free
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Time
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Time
4 - 8 p.m. (Wednesday), 5 - 8
Time
7:30 p.m.
Time
Varies
p.m. (Thursday)
Welcome Week: Tivoli Throwback Date Location
Aug. 22 Tivoli Quad
Welcome Week: Meet the Greeks Date Location
Aug. 22 Tivoli Turnhalle
Lamb Jam Denver Date Location
Aug. 25 Mile High Station
Scotty Wiese: “Mile High Magic” Date Location
Aug. 25 Bovine Metropolis Theater
Price
Free
Price
Free
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Time
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Time
5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Time
2 p.m.
Time
7 p.m.
LOCAL SPORTS
University of Denver vs. Boston University (Women’s Soccer) Date Location
Aug. 22 University of Denver
University of Denver vs. Gonzaga University (Soccer) Date Location
Aug. 23 University of Denver
Inner Circle Foundation 4th Anuual Golf Tournament Date Location
Aug. 23 Arrowhead Golf Club
Denver Outlaws vs. Ohio Machines Date Location
Aug. 24 Broncos Stadium
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Time
7 p.m.
Time
5 p.m.
Time
7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Time
7 p.m.
University of Denver vs. Drake University (Women’s Soccer) Date Location
Aug. 25 University of Denver
Race to Cure Sarcoma Date Location
Aug. 25 Cherry Creek Dam
Colorado Classic (Cycling) Date Location
Aug. 22 - 25 Colorado
Rugbytown 7S Date Location
Aug. 23 - 28 Infinity Park Event Center
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Time
12 - 2 p.m.
Time
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Time
Varies
Time
Varies
CONCERTS
Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats Date Location
Aug. 21 Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Dave Matthews Band Date Location
Aug. 23 Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre
“1964” The Tribute Date Location
Aug. 23 Red Rocks Ampitheatre
Highly Suspect Date Location
Aug. 24 Mission Ballroom
Price
$55 - 90
Price
$50 - 115
Price
$43 - 53
Price
$33 - 75
Time
7:30 p.m.
Time
8 p.m.
Time
8 p.m.
Time
8 p.m.
Reggae on the Rocks Date
Aug. 24
Location Red Rocks Ampitheatre
The Meditations Date Location
Aug. 24 Red Rocks Ampitheater
The 2nd Annual Red Rocks Beer Festival: Punk in Drublic Date Location
Aug. 25 Red Rocks Ampitheater
Price
$60 - 95
Price
$60 - 95
Price
$90 - 100
Time
2 p.m.
Time
2 p.m.
Time
4 p.m.
5280 Listening Club, MSU Denver ’s weekly album review podcast, features a new artist every Saturday. Catch the crew dissecting lyrics, instrumentals and cultural significance at mymetmedia.com
BREAK
AUGUST 21, 2019
Overheard
Horoscopes
“The classiest drink I’ve seen here is Mike’s Hard Lemonade.” “That’s the thing about seasons, they come around every year.” “Rennaisance artists all have bad Italian names.” “The Beatles released a couple klunkers.”
Capricorn
Cancer
You may find that you are a little lost in the wind lately. Don’t worry, and go with the flow, as things will soon calm down.
A period of discontent is coming to a close. Despite your instinct to hold on to your current feelings, strive to let them go and move forward.
Aquarius
Leo
Right now is a time for closure. Be it a project, relationship or something else, make sure you finish things the right way.
Your conceptions of the world are going to be challenged in the near term. Make sure not to react defensively, and to stay open to new ideas.
Pisces
Virgo
Pisces is sitting pretty right now. While the moment is calm, take some time for yourself and enjoy this moment of ease.
Top 5
Libra
You’ve been struggling with confidence lately, but you need not. Those who matter most to you are proud of who you are already.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way” might be cliche, but its also often true. You’re feeling defeated right now, but if you stick to it, there’s a chance you’ll come through.
Taurus
Scorpio
Your future is full of the kind of early mornings you detest. It’ll be a trial, but it’s better to tackle the transition head on.
You’re looking at a major financial decision soon, Scorpio. Much as you’ll want to get it done and over with, take your time and watch your step.
Gemini
Sagittarius
With summer hitting its peak, now is an ideal time for Gemini to reflect on their year and look towards the coming winter close.
Sagittarius may feel conflicted over a recent mistake. Much as you’ll regret admitting to it, be forthright, lest the problem fester.
2. Radiohead — “Pablo Honey” 3. Bruce Springsteen — “Human Touch” 4. Kanye West — “Yeezus”
Virgos should look to let their hair down before the going gets tough. You’ve got labors waiting for you, but now is a moment of ease. Enjoy it.
Aries
bad albums from great artists 1.The Beach Boys — “15 Big Ones”
11
5. Arctic Monkeys — “Suck It and See”
Photo of the Week blocking the movement of a coal shipment from their recently cloased mine. The miners
of an America in flux. Many moments in U.S.
are refusing to clear the short stretch of rail
history are defined, in our recollections and
needed to ship the coal until they are paid their
our history books not by outstanding pictures
due wages. It’s the first time in decades that
of exceptional times, but by the everyday
miners in the area, once known for a history of
snaps of common people going about the
sometimes violent labor action, have organized
business of their lives. From the dust bowl
on such a scale. And it comes at a time when
to the civil rights movement, as much as we
America’s economy is continuing a trend of
remember the keystone moments, it’s daily
upheaval, with support for unions and worker
America that defines the texture of our history.
organization at a high point. Perhaps Thacker’s
Thacker captures Harlan County miners
photo will continue that great historical trend.
Do you have a funny quote you overheard on campus or an interesting photo you just have to share? Submit to Managing Editor Megan Webber at mwebber6@ msudenver.edu
Easy
Medium
Photo by Kristian Thacker | Photo obtained from the New York Times
Coal miners in Harlan County, Kentucky block the last shipment of coal from their recently shuttered mine, demanding backpay and severance.
Hard
Answers:
Kristian Thacker’s photo of coal miners in Harlan County, Kentucky captures a slice
ELEVATED ST UDE NT LIVING
Mention this ad for a FREE shuttle ride to The Regency! Enjoy an all-you-can eat meal while you are here!* *some restrictions apply*
DENVER’S PREMIER LIVING EXPERIENCE
The Regency and The Villas are Denver‘s premier student housing community committed to providing you with an amenity-rich living experience. Located in the heart of Mile High City, with a dedicated shuttle to and from Auraria Campus, getting to class is a breeze. You’ll love our top-notch amenity package and on-site, full-service dining! APPLY NOW! REGENCYSTUDENTHOUSING.COM
REGENCYSTUDENTHOUSING.COM | 3900 ELATI STREET, DENVER CO | 303-477-1950