The Student Newspaper of MSU Denver
mymetmedia.com
VOL. 42  NO. 4
@themetonline
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
themetropolitan
The Father, The Mother and The 7 Thunders Story on pg. 6
Illustration by Zhen Tang ztang@msudenver.edu
INSIDE
NEWS
| pg. 2
OPINION
| pg. 4
SPORTS
| pg. 8
COLUMN
| pg. 9
Preview: Denver corn maze to open
Despite hostility back home,
Volleyball sets sight on 20th straight
The Rocky Mountain Showdown is
up for fall season
Buttigieg still a front-runner
NCAA tournament
the epitome of boring football
NEWS
2
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
Maize in the City begins prepping for 2019 season By Herman Guzman-Ibarra
of agritourism – which is doing any
hguzmani@msudenver.edu
agriculturally based operation or activity to bring visitors to a farm or ranch.
Maize in the City, one of the most
“Agritourism is what helps keep
popular fall attractions in the Denver
farming alive, especially since we are
metro area, returns to Thornton for its
locally-owned,” Cristina said.
18th year in business. Maize in the City
In other words, profits made by the
opens on Sept. 28 and will continue
Halloween-themed events help supplement
to run until the end of October.
the cost of running the events and growing
MITC is located between Riverdale Road
crops. This year, they’re featuring a “Pitch
and McKay Road on 104th Avenue. The maze
Dark” blackout event at the end of October,
is run by siblings Gina and Joe Palombo,
where they’ve pathed out a track that runs
alongside Mark Villano, who initially started
down the infamous Riverdale Road, into
with four acres of land in 2001. Now, the farm
the woods and back into their field.
is 10 times as large, with the main “Crazed
Cristina said the farm’s owners try to give
Corn Field Maze” attraction taking up 20 acres.
back to their attendees and supporters.
The farm has expanded to include more
“We try to include the community and
attractions as it has gained popularity
provide something fun and engaging,” she
over the years. Alongside the mazes, the
said. “We’re always looking to find new,
location also has a petting zoo, pumpkin
exciting ways to let everyone enjoy their time.”
field, pony rides and all-new corn launchers
One way they’ve given back is by
Photo courtesy of Maize in the City
that shoot corn more than 50 feet across the field. There is also the infamous night-time attraction, The Haunted Field of Screams,
Corn maze-goers enter the Maize in the City in Thornton. The attraction will be open for the 2019 fall season on Sept. 28.
offering four different experiences once
partnering with Sanctuary Movement, a nonprofit based out of Colorado, for the past three years and providing a portion of their sales to them. The reason for this partnership is that
the sun goes down on the weekends.
“We have the opportunity to build
Cristina Palombo, the communications
MITC has been recognized by the public as
the treasurer is connected to the farm, and
everything from the ground up in three
they’ve continued to grow, being named best
they went from there. The non-profit works
consultant for MITC and The Haunted
weeks and change up both events every
corn maze by Westword in 2017 for having so
with people in other countries and making
Field of Screams, said they can change
year,” she said. “Even if the name is the
much variety on their land during the season.
sure they have basic necessities like food,
up each year for both events as one of the
same, you won’t go through the same maze
leading factors of how they stay relevant.
or haunted house two years in a row.”
This time of year is when farms can
and they recently built a school in India.
push to turn a profit through the promotion
Weekly News Briefs Mike Johnston drops out of Colorado Senate Race Just two weeks after former
Sen. Bernie Sanders coming to Civic Center Park Sept. 9 Sen. Bernie Sanders, one
Stricter oil and gas regulations roll out in Adams County
RTD Crime spree suspect charged with eight different counts
Frisco man admits to 10-year-long embezzlement scheme.
Colorado legislature passed
Gov. John Hickenlooper’s
of the Democratic presidential
Senate Bill 181 back in April, which
announcement that he was
candidates for the 2020 election,
gave counties more authority
was reported brandishing a gun
stealing from the Hamilton Creek
entering the race after resigning
is coming to Denver next
to limit drilling of gas and oil
towards an RTD bus driver before
Metro District for over a decade,
from his presidential campaign,
Monday with doors opening at
in their boundaries. The power
forcing them out and driving away.
according to the Colorado 5th
former state Sen. Mike Johnston
4:30 p.m. and the rally starting
was originally held only by state
He crashed the stolen vehicle a
Judicial Distric Attorney’s Office.
dropped out, despite leading
at 6 p.m. This is Sanders’ first
regulators. Adams County is the
mile later wall on West 6th Avenue
He was hired in 1995 to perform
the Democrats and raising $1.6
appearance in Colorado for his
first to follow through with the
and Lowell Boulevard. Afterwards,
billing, financial statements,
million. Johnston’s reasoning
2020 campaign and the event
new local law. The industry has
Garcia went to a nearby residence,
financial management, budget
has to do with wanting to avoid
is free and open to the public,
fought against these rules and
harassing the homeowner for
preparation and supervision of
delving into having to get involved
although an RSVP is appreciated.
laws in the past, along with some
their keys, then ran off again, later
the district’s operations and was
with a negative campaign.
Sanders has historically polled
citizens saying that these jobs
approaching a third person in
fired in 2015. The first records
well in Colorado before, winning
have benefitted Adams County
their white Hyundai Santa Fe and
date 2000 and show that Polich
the state’s caucus in 2016 at
and its residents, and that the bill
carjacking them. The suspect was
wrote checks that were about four
primary would now require
59% against Hillary Clinton’s
is not “reasonable and necessary”
detained shortly after 6:30 p.m.
times the necessary legitimate
an expensive and negative
40%. Currently Sanders is in the
— a phrase that was added later
after crashing the second vehicle
funds required. Polich was the
campaign.” Johnston said in
lead for Colorado’s Democratic
by the insistence of lobbyists —
at a traffic light near Sheridan
only person with any check writing
an interview with The Denver
primary field at 26% support, with
and that the bill will essentially
Boulevard and West First Avenue
authorities and could face up to
Channel. “That is not who I am,
former vice president Joe Biden
ban drilling. The Colorado
and trying to run off once again.
12 years in prison for this crime.
and no race is worth conceding
trailing behind at 25%, followed
Petroleum Council is satisfied
Charges include two counts of
He was caught attempting to do
victory to a brand of broken
by U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren
with the outcome, but wants more
endangering public transportation,
something similar as a financial
politics that I have spent my
with 20% support. Sanders also
changes once it is finalized. One
two counts of aggravated robbery,
manager, and was ordered to pay
life trying to change.”
came in 2018 to support other
of the major concerns is about the
two counts of first-degree
back $160,000. He pleaded guilty
Democratic candidates like Jared
county’s proposed air emission
aggravated motor vehicle theft,
to that case. The sentencing is
Gov. Jared Polis commended
Polis. Other candidates who
levels, saying that it undermines
one count of criminal attempted to
set to take place on Nov. 5 at 8:30
Johnston for his efforts to improve
visited or are visiting Denver
the efforts made by the industry
commit aggravated robbery, and
a.m. and last all day as multiple
Colorado, the first comment he
include Sen. Kamala Harris,
and state government. There
one count of criminal attempt to
witnesses bear their testimonies.
made about the race. Johnston
who came in early Aug., and
will likely be more efforts to
commit second-degree burglary.
made a remark about doing what’s
Biden coming in late Sept.
crack down against the industry,
“To win this Democratic
best for everyone involved, even
with this bill just being one of
if that means having to step
the first steps towards that.
down instead of pressing on.
Solomon David Garcia, 36,
Robert Polich, 66, admitted to
BACK
INVITES YOU AND A GUEST TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING
SCHOOL
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 7:00PM
VISIT
IN SUITE 313 TODAY STARTING AFTER 11:00AM TO RECEIVE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY PASS
FREE CHIPS OR SODA WITH ANY SANDWICH PURCHASE
1675 LARIMER ST. •
DENVER LODO
STUDENT ID MUST BE PRESENT AT PICK UP RATED R FOR DRUG USE AND LANGUAGE. Please note: Passes are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. No phone calls, please. Limit one pass per person. Each pass admits two. Seating is not guaranteed. Arrive early. Theater is not responsible for overbooking. This screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to bring any audio or video recording device into the theater (audio recording devices for credentialed press excepted) and consent to a physical search of your belongings and person. Any attempted use of recording devices will result in immediate removal from the theater, forfeiture, and may subject you to criminal and civil liability. Please allow additional time for heightened security. You can assist us by leaving all nonessential bags at home or in your vehicle.
• 303.825.4444
Special available at participating locations only. Must show student or faculty ID at time of purchase. Valid in-store only.
IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 13 Soundtrack Available Now
thegoldfinchmovie.com #TheGoldfinchMovie
THE METROPOLITAN THU 9/5 BW 5" X 7"
MR
OPINIONS
4
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
Buttigieg still the ideal candidate in light of policing record
staff Editor-in-Chief
s one of 20 Democratic
Harris of California has faced
else, hopefully it will come
James Burky jburky@msudenver.edu
candidates for president
backlash in her own state for her
across that among the candidates
Managing Editor
in 2020, Pete Buttigieg stands out
stance on criminal justice. As the
I’ll be one of those who has
for multiple reasons. He is not
attorney general of California,
engaged these issues and the
Megan Webber mwebber6@msudenver.edu
only the youngest man to ever
Harris defended the death penalty,
challenge that they represent.”
run for president, but also the
even though she admitted she
And Davis was right about
first ever openly gay candidate.
was personally against it. CNN
one thing. Buttigieg has fixed
However, a recent town hall
reported that her political view
the economic welfare of South
on the issue had to do with her
Bend, and all one need do to test
professional duty to the state.
whether he would do the same for
Sports Editor Will Satler wsatler@msudenver.edu
A
meeting in South Bend, Indiana
Megan Webber
proved that he lacks support from Democrats who would be crucial
named Oliver Davis, told the
And yet, in 2004, Harris refused
the country as president is look
to the success of his campaign.
Times that the mayor’s inability to
to seek the death penalty for the
into his policy ideas on health
solve racial issues overshadows
killer of a Latino police officer.
care, education and minority
Sitting at fourth in the polls, Buttigieg’s campaign has recieved $24.8 million from 130,000
his other achievements. “If you build up the downtown
Features Editor Brady Pieper bpieper3@msudenver.edu
Photo Editor Kaileigh Lyons klyons9@msudenver.edu
is another matter. Harris herself
progressive change this country
Design Editor Zhen Tang ztang@msudenver.edu
and fix all the potholes but your
publicly attacked Biden on the
needs after four years of Donald
more than current Democratic
police officers are killing people,
debate stage in June for his
Trump. He is the polar opposite
front-runner Joe Biden has
your people are not around to
public ignorance of minorities.
of the current administration,
received so far. The South Bend
enjoy it. That is the key issue
Other candidates called out
and the social struggles of his
mayor’s chances of winning the
with Mayor Pete,” Davis said.
his vote in favor of the Iraq
hometown do not change that.
Much of the anger is due to
Herman Guzman-Ibarra hguzmani@msudenver.edu
rights. Buttigieg encompasses the
Former vice president Biden
individual donors, which is
nomination are rising, in light of
News Editor
war and his relationships with
Spanish Editor Sarah Lease sarah.lease@cudenver.edu Copy Editor Daniel Sutton
the fact that as mayor, Buttigieg
segregationist senators. While
Megan Webber is a fourth-year
was responsible for hiring
Biden denies their accusations,
convergent journalism major with a
officer in South Bend fatally
the police chiefs, all of whom
his record raises questions about
minor in linguistics at MSU Denver. She
shot a 54-year-old black man
have been white men since
his political views of minorities.
is currently the Managing Editor of The
Steve Haigh shaigh@msudenver.edu
named Eric Logan. In the wake of
Buttigieg took office. There are
Metropolitan and interning at KGNU
Assistant Director of Met Media
the shooting, black citizens and
now only six black officers on
in South Bend, Buttigieg walked
in Boulder. In March, she won the
critics of Buttigieg have pointed
the South Bend police force,
with protesters outside the police
Denver Press Club’s John C. Ennslin
Ronan O’Shea roshea3@msudenver.edu
out his faults concerning public
according to the Times, in a city
department. His dedication to
award in conjunction with journalism
safety in favor of economic
with a 26% black population.
hearing the input of the people
legend Bob Woodward. Contact her
Kathleen Jewby kjewby@msudenver.edu
is what shows he is capable of
at mwebber6@msudenver.edu.
Office Manager
policy issues in his hometown. On Jun. 16, a white police
development, according to The
But Buttigieg isn’t the only
After the town hall meeting
New York Times. One critic, a
candidate with flaws in terms
bringing about positive change.
South Bend City Council member
of race and crime. Sen. Kamala
He told the Times, “If nothing
dsutton3@msudenver.edu Director of Met Media
Production Manager of Met Media
Elizabeth Norberg enorbert@msudenver.edu Sales and Marketing
Top 40 has died, long live internet music communities
T
he Billboard Music Charts
His patented brand of comedy,
allowed modern musicians like
regurgitate the same pungent
jazz and experimental rock paved
Mac Demarco to find their home.
pop crap with a handful of decent
the way for contemporaries and
artists sprinkled in. Thanks to the
successors like The Beatles and
Billboard Charts serve today?
rise of internet music communities,
Jeff Buckley to bless our souls with
With access to the history of
we have no need for focus group
musical orgasms of awesomeness.
recorded music at our fingertips
hooks and manufactured melodies.
Yet, he only had one album chart
and a myriad of communities to
in the Billboard Top 10 and one
recommend us albums, songs
song chart in the Top 50. A band
and playlists, we don’t need a
that embraced noise music that
chart to tell us what to listen to.
Fifty years ago, the Billboard charts served a higher purpose than
James Burky
they do today. Music as we know it was in its infancy. Piggybacking
they made that exclusive and
Zappa also helped innovate faced
off of the innovation of the first
coveted aggregation of sales.
similar commercial struggles.
generation of rock and roll stars —
Now we can see the errors in
Noise Pop savant Pixies is a
Music has never been so immersive, and because of that, it’s time to push archaic methods
that method. It inherently silences
band that few listened to in their
Richard to name a few — figures
provocative artists that either
80s heyday. None of its first four
like The Beatles, Leonard Cohen,
challenge beliefs or push the
acclaimed albums made a dent
James Burky is a fifth-year convergent
Joni Mitchell and Jimi Hendrix
boundaries just a little bit too much.
in the Billboard album charts, yet
journalism major with a minor in sports
rock gods Nirvana, Weezer, The
media. He is the editor-in-chief for The
It kept truly transcendent artists
of tracking music to the side.
and made music a cultural staple
from getting their commercial
Strokes and David Bowie took
Metropolitan. He hosts the Met Radio
to America. The charts funneled
due, despite terraforming the
massive inspiration from them.
podcast ``5280 Listening Club,`` a show
the top songs and albums to the
musical landscape forever. Take
But this dilemma of amazing
in which he and guests listen to albums
audience so that they could go and
Frank Zappa, for example. He is
artists going unnoticed is,
and discuss their quality and cultural
buy something they’d heard before.
largely credited as being one of
generally, a less pressing issue
significance. He has previously worked
Want to find some country or know
the most authentic artists of the
thanks to internet communities
for the Boulder Daily Camera and
if the new Arlo Guthrie record is any
1970s by continuing to satirize
and streaming. On Reddit, the
currently writes for The Denver Post.
good? Billboard had your back.
cultural norms in a resurgence of
forum Indieheads is dedicated
Email James at jburky@msudenver.edu.
American exceptionalism, while
to discussing and sharing indie
artists to shine. Musicians
also ripping the proverbial box to
music. For all of the community’s
knew that they’d made it when
shreds with his artistic initiative.
occasional pretensions, it has
It also allowed breakthrough
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
Brady Nelson bnelso73@msudenver.edu
What purpose do the
Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and Little
shined as they pushed boundaries
sales@mymetmedia.com marketing@mymetmedia.com
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.
Y D W ROProud &
e h T e Sav
Date
September 30 to October 6 For more information visit: www.msudenver.edu/homecoming
FEATURES
6
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
Embracing an unorthodox religion on campus
7 Thunders organization follows unique interpretation of Bible
felt judged for asking questions By Brady Pieper
about faith. 7 Thunders gave her
bpieper3@msudenver.edu
the opportunity to not only ask questions of her own but help
Sporting green jackets and
others understand the Bible.
bright smiles, 7 Thunders may
Auraria’s vicinity to downtown
seem familiar to students on
Denver has made 7 Thunders’
campus, but there is a large
job easier. Considering the
dichotomy between the public’s
number of students and people
image of the religious group
flowing through campus every
and what 7 Thunders stands
day, the chapter can reach an
for. The club is a chapter of the
immense array of potential
World Mission Society Church
recruits in a short period of time.
of God, which started in South
MSU Denver is known for its
Korea. The student organization
acceptance of many different clubs
has been one of the most
and ideas. 7 Thunders fits right
storied on campus, winning
in and has received tremendous
awards from President Donald
support from the university.
Trump and presenting in front
“We really appreciate the
of the United Nations. But with
support from MSU Denver student
many large organizations come
activities,” Curry said. “They really
controversy, and the shrouded
helped us grow a lot. We are all
and misunderstood existence
members of ASEZ. We work for
of the 7 Thunders’ mother
Mother and under Mother’s love,
church has a loaded history.
we will make peace for the world.”
BACKSTORY AND BELIEFS
ASEZ AND “THE FUTURE STARTS WITH US”
The history behind 7 Thunders starts in the 1940s in
The organization exists as a
South Korea. Ahn Sahng-hong,
religion but also as a volunteer
a Korean Christian Minister,
group named ASEZ. Their
began his religious days as a Protestant before coming to a revelation and creating the
Photo by Brady Pieper | bpieper3@msudenver.edu
Steven-Valle Valdez and Rudy Sanchez read from the Bible during a Bible study session in a church owned by the World Mission Society Church of God Arvada on Aug. 31.
Witnesses of Jesus Church of God. His death in 1985 created a schism between his followers. Ahn has been claimed as the
volunteer goals fall in line with their beliefs of God the Father and God the Mother. The 7 Thunders has quickly
Mother is a highly debated topic within Christian forum. World Mission’s General
other practices of Christianity,
the past. But Curry states that
become one of the most awarded
which can vary but often observe
the 7 Thunders chapter has had
groups on campus. The chapter
the Sabbath on Sundays.
little to no difficulties recruiting
and World Mission have won not
and operating on Auraria.
only the U.S. President’s Volunteer
founder of both the The World
Pastor Kim Joo-cheol spoke in an
Mission Society Church of God
interview with Korean reporter
must wear white veils whenever
and the New Covenant Passover
Song Hong-geun about God
the time for prayer begins. These
to share the word of God
for Voluntary Service, but several
Church of God. The World Mission
the Mother and God the Father.
help distinguish the men from
the Mother,” Curry said.
other awards regarding their
was incepted in South Korea
Kim, referring to the book of
the women. During the service,
in 1985 after Ahn’s death. The
Genesis, said that if God made
men and women are divided into
chapter that was incepted in
“We believe that the global
Church believes that Ahn is the
man in his image, it means
their own seating sections.
2017 with just four members
village can have true peace, unity
second coming of Jesus Christ, as
there is a male image of God
prophesied in the Bible’s Book of
and a female image of God.
Hebrews. Ahn’s teachings were
The existence of Mother
In the World Mission, women
The World Mission spread to
“Campus is a great opportunity
The 7 Thunders club is a
Service Award and Queen’s Award
international volunteer service.
creating the club. Since then, the
and happiness when we take care
Los Angeles in 1997, continually
Auraria club has grown to over
of our families and neighbors and
spreading the word since. In
70 members in Denver and over
practice sharing and serving with the heart of a mother,” Kim said.
used as the baseline by which his
isn’t the only change from other
2013, the organization claimed
300 members in the midwest.
followers interpret the Bible, and
denominations of Christianity.
to have over 2,500 churches
Students can easily recognize
are strictly followed by the World
A typical service doesn’t appear
in 175 different countries.
the green sweatshirts and
expedition took the group Salt
Mission Society Church of God.
extraordinarily different from
enthusiastic swagger members
Lake City. The United Nations
carry throughout campus.
Civil Society Conference is an
“Not of our thoughts and
other religious gatherings.
mind, but the words of God,”
Attendees can expect many
said Brandon Lee, missionary
songs of prayer, a choir
of the World Mission, on their
performing angelic tunes and
strict interpretation of the Bible.
ministers leading the session.
AURARIA CAMPUS AND THE GENERATIONAL SHIFT
“We wanted to establish 7
The 7 Thunders’ most recent
event gathering faith-based
Thunders on campus so people
organizations, non-governmental
could feel safe to ask questions
organizations, activists, educators
a hit in the 21st century due to
and feel comfortable,” said
and students together for the
But there are a few changes
a generational shift. Millennials
Bezawit Girma, 7 Thunders officer.
goal of outlining a global vision
in the World Mission’s
that differ the World Mission’s
and Generation Z have delegated
understanding of the Bible from
proceedings from others.
religion to the backburners.
and attended church growing
and inclusivity by 2030. The 7
According to the American
up. But her curiosity outgrew
Thunders appearance at the
religious day set aside for rest
Religious Identification Survey,
her minister’s ability to answer
68th annual UNCSC was one
and worship, which is observed
self-identifying Christians have
her questions. It forced Girma
of great importance and honor
the Mother,” said William Curry,
on Saturdays from sunrise to
fallen nearly 10% nationwide,
to decline religion as a major
for the club, as they received
vice president of the University
sunset. This varies from Judaism,
while self-identifying Jews have
part in her life. After moving
the opportunity to present their
of Colorado Denver’s 7 Thunders
which holds that the Sabbath
dropped 1.2%. The shift has shown
to Colorado and attending the
youth environmental goals.
chapter. “Her responsibilities are
occurs from Friday sundown to
that religion is becoming less of
University of Northern Colorado,
to give people the water of life.”
Saturday sundown, and from
a priority for Americans than in
she went to a Bible study but
The noticeable difference
other Christian denominations is the existence of Mother. “We believe Jerusalem is God
One difference is Sabbath, a
Organized religion has taken
Girma was born in Ethiopia
of sustainable communities
Continued on pg. 7
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
FEATURES
“It was humbling being able to
7
in which the court would have to
spread the word,” said MSU Denver 7
investigate the claims, a process which
Thunders’ officer Jordan Dickerson. “It
isn’t constitutionally accepted.
really is beautiful seeing it unfold.”
Rick Alan Ross, an American cult
Dickerson’s path to MSU Denver was
specialist and founder of the Cult Education
one many students have encountered.
Institute, has criticized the World Mission
She began at North Platte Community
as “a very intense group,” according to an
College in Nebraska. After receiving her
interview with Pocono Records. Ross also
associates degree there, she decided that
claimed that the organization has driven
MSU Denver was the next best choice.
members to bankruptcy through excessive
Ever since enrolling at MSU Denver, she
donations, while some members have
has been a large part of the 7 Thunders’
lost jobs due to “excessive demands.”
proceedings, focusing a large portion of
But regardless of the controversy,
her time on community goals intending
the group still carries on.
to improve campus life. Dickerson has
“Of course there were the people
tried to influence students to submit
that didn’t believe, but the Bible
incident reports on campus for cases
explains everything and they can’t
involving theft and criminal activity. In
deny it,” Girma said. “The only solution
her eyes, the community needs to take
is through the word of God.”
an active role in making reports if it
Throughout adversity and societal
wants to reduce crime across campus.
marginalization, the organization has grown
The United Nations outlines 17 goals for
exponentially. Over three million members
sustainable development. Dickerson’s and
around the world have heard the words of
7 Thunders’ goal of combating crime on
Ahn Sahng-hong and God the Mother.
campus is highlighted in sustainability goal
For two years, Auraria’s chapter of
No. 11, sustainable cities and communities.
World Mission Society Church of God, 7
“One voice that is heard speaks for a lot of voices that aren’t,” Dickerson said.
Photo by Brady Pieper | bpieper3@msudenver.edu
Members of the World Mission Society Church of God read their Bibles as a group in their Bible study session in their church in Arvada.
CRITICISMS AND CONTROVERSY
Thunders, has become one of the largest organizations on campus. It’s hard to miss the group as they spread their religious word on some of the highest-activity
has one of the highest profile complaints
“uses a number of psychological control
walkways on campus. But the story behind
against the church. According to a People
tactics … to prevent its members from
the 7 Thunders and its parent church
plenty of ire thanks to the recruiting
article, the New Jersey woman filed a
exposing its criminal and tortious behavior.”
World Mission is one clouded in mystery.
practices of World Mission.
lawsuit against the World Mission, claiming
The 7 Thunders has drawn
Michelle Colon, a former member,
the group is a “profit-making” cult and
Colon’s lawsuit was rejected in court due to the intrusive way
student organizations need an advertisement?
offers a free ad
The Metropolitan offers all MSU Denver student organizations per semester one free sixteenth-page ad (2.5” width by 3.5” height) with design included.
contact SalesAtMyMetMedia@.com or 303-615-0155
3.5”
2.5”
SPORTS
8
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
Volleyball looking to go deeper Behind lone senior Roadrunners look to make 20th consecutive appearance in NCAA tournament By Will Satler wsatler@msudenver.edu
When Kelling finally gets
SPORTS BRIEFS
the chance to step back onto that court for the final season
The MSU Denver volleyball
she believes her team will be
the Rocky Mountain Athletic
better off from this period
Conference tournament.
away from their home floor.
After 19 straight seasons of
“I think it’s helped us for the
reaching the NCAA tournament
better. Now, we’re more prepared
and three consecutive RMAC
for games on the road, and we’re
tournament championship game
more comfortable in all these
appearances, the Roadrunners
different situations,” Kelling said.
are focused on going deeper. A 21-10 record last season,
Benda, an outside hitter, doesn’t believe not being
including an impressive 15-3
in their home gym has
conference mark, was not enough
affected the team either.
for the Roadrunners to get past
“I don’t think it has really
Colorado Mesa University in
affected us at all. We’re practicing
the RMAC championship game.
really well wherever we are,”
Entering her fourth year as
she said. “We have done a really
head coach, Jenny Glenn has
good job of adjusting to each
never missed the title game,
gym that we’re in. I think we’ve
but she has also never won it.
played in like five different
To the team, their youth is
gyms at this point, something
a blessing in disguise. While
crazy, so it’s definitely going
all-RMAC middle blocker Alyssa
to be nice to get back on our
Kelling will lead the way as the
home floor at some point, but
only senior, up and coming juniors
it’s not the end of the world.”
Alexa Benda and Kayla White,
No matter what gym they’re
who had breakout performances
playing in, the Roadrunners
during the 2018 postseason,
will need Kelling and the other
look to bring a whole new
five upperclassmen to provide
dynamic to the Roadrunners.
powerful leadership after losing
“There is a lot of fresh
MSU Denver Baseball adds Colorado native to staff Head coach Ryan Strain made another move to try to bolster his team this offseason as he added Marc Mumper as an assistant coach for the 2020 season. Mumper recently finished his playing career at Grand Canyon University as a three-year starter for the NCAA Division I school. Mumper grew up in Colorado and was drafted as a shortstop by the Colorado Rockies in 2015 in the 37th round. He will now look to primarily bolster the team’s infielders, as well as assisting with hitting and base running for a team that started hot but cooled off at the wrong time, losing in the second round of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference tournament.
of her MSU Denver career,
team‘s sights aren’t just set on
Photo by Isaac Banks | cisaacbanks@gmail.com Alyssa Kelling blocks the ball in a match against the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs at the Auraria Event Center in Denver on Oct. 20, 2018.
three key seniors. Santaisha
blood in the gym and that
Sturges, Stephanie Laraway, and
and weren’t able to complete a
they hatch,” Glenn said. “We
has created a good growth
Taylor Duryea graduated and were
comeback after winning the third.
want to make sure we’re taking it
mindset that’s rubbed off on
all-conference selections in their
“Playing from start to finish
one step at a time. The program
our upperclassmen,” Glenn
final seasons as Roadrunners. A
is something that is a big focus
has been very successful in the
said. “We’re almost half-
preseason RMAC coaches poll has
for us,” Benda said. “From the
last 19 years, but we’re always
and-half as far as newbies
MSU Denver right in the thick of
moment we step onto that court,
trying to push deeper. We are
and returners and, while it’s
things again, picked to finish fifth
we’re not letting the team score
a long way away and it’s going
been a different preseason
right behind Regis University.
on us four or five, six points at
to be really tough, so we’ll take
a time. We’re really feisty, so if
it one day at a time and deal with the match in front of us.”
with a lot more teaching
Kelling figures to seamlessly
and patience in the process,
replace the graduates and cap
we communicate and play hard, I
they’re coming along well.”
off a career that leaves her 16th
think we’ll be where we need to be
on the MSU Denver all-time
for the conference tournament.”
Both the “fresh blood” and the veterans were faced with
rank for total blocks and 11th for
a challenge throughout their
blocks per set with 0.94. Last
like Kelling, Glenn arguably had
Event Center will host the regional
offseason and to start the season.
season, she finished with 189
her best season in 2016, where
tournament in December, bringing
kills, good enough for fourth on
she shined in her first season
Division II volleyball to Denver.
the team. After a statistically
leading the Roadrunners from the
down year in 2017, Kelling was
bench, going 27-5 and remained
great for Denver. It’s great to
back to the form when she was a
perfect in conference play.
get people on our campus and
“We want to make sure we’re taking it one step at a time. The program has been very successful in the last 19 years, but we’re always trying to push deeper.” – Jenny Glenn
leading force in the Roadrunners’ deep NCAA tournament run.
Event Center have kept the
The team would end up
NCAA tournament. The Auraria
“It’s great for volleyball, it’s
see what MSU Denver is all
losing to Colorado School of
about,” Glenn said about hosting
Mines in the championship game
the tournament. “Anytime we
about her. She just reminds us
of the RMAC tournament, but
can be in the spotlight from a
all it’s okay in those important
followed that with a Sweet 16
national perspective, it’s good
moments,” Glenn said. “She does
run in the NCAA tournament,
for our program and good for
a great job of stabilizing the team
the longest in Glenn’s tenure.
our university. We’re excited
“Alyssa has a great composure
and making sure that everybody Renovations at the Auraria
Behind the forces of players
If they do make it 20 straight, they won’t have to travel far to the
knows what’s going on.” Something that plagued the
What will a successful year for the Roadrunners look like in 2019?
to have that on our campus.” The team’s quest to recrown
A return to the NCAA tournament
MSU Denver as the RMAC
Roadrunners out of their
team during their 2018 campaign
for a 20th consecutive season
champions for the first time
home gym and on the road. A
was putting together a full
is certainly on their minds, but
since 2013 and a chance at their
university-funded upgrade of $8
game, which was in full effect
they’ll need to take it one game
first NCAA title begins on Sept.
million for new bleachers and
in the first round of the NCAA
at a time, according to Glenn.
6 in Portland, Oregon against
updated locker rooms has been
tournament. MSU Denver started
brewing in the building since it
slow against Colorado School of
tournament, so we’re never
was approved earlier this year.
Mines, losing the first two sets
going to count our eggs before
“It’s hard to get to the NCAA
Western Oregon University.
AP Top 25 teams rule, open 23-0 With college football season now fully underway, it was a full display of power for the Associated Press’ Top 25 teams, as they were undefeated against unranked teams. The only Top 25 team to lose was the University of Oregon, who lost to Auburn University. The Tigers jumped up to No. 10, while the Ducks fell from No. 16. The top seven teams in the poll stayed the same with Clemson University heading the pack at No. 1. Boise State University jumped into the Top 25 at No. 24 while Nebraska University and Iowa State University are now tied for No. 25.
USA National Team escapes upset After losing their 78-game winning streak in August in an exhibition game against the Australian men’s national team, the USA men’s national team prevented an upset to Turkey in Group E of the FIBA World Cup in Shanghai, China, winning 93-92 in overtime. The U.S. blew a 15-point lead early in the first half before Jayson Tatum, who would later leave with an ankle injury, knocked in two free throws with .1 seconds left on the clock. The Americans then trailed by five points in overtime, and if it wasn’t for four missed free throws in the final moments. Next up for the U.S. is Japan, while Turkey will face the Czech Republic, both on Thursday in Shanghai.
SPORTS
9
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
While BoCo and FoCo relish Rocky Mountain Showdown, the rest of us suffer By James Burky
two of the three matchups with
jburky@msudenver.edu
less parity than Colorado’s yearly snooze fest — Oklahoma University
Per tradition, the 2019 Rocky
vs. Oklahoma State University,
Mountain Showdown — the
and Washington University vs.
annual college football matchup
Washington State University —
between the University of Colorado
neither school in the Centennial
- Boulder Buffaloes and Colorado
state is particularly watchable.
State University Rams — was a
In the last ten seasons, the
pillow fight that hemorrhaged
Buffaloes and Rams have won just
bad football. The Buffaloes may
36.8% of their games. The few times
have won 52-31, but football fans
either team has stumbled into the
suffered while watching that game.
postseason, they have been quickly
The state’s flagship universities
put in their place. The two have
boasted defenses made of putty,
gone a combined 1-5 in bowl games.
surrendering a combined 980 yards
In this time span, the games have
to offenses that ranked no higher
been just as exhilarating as you’d
than 80th in the nation a season ago.
expect from two below-average
Rams coach Mike Bobo cried foul at
schools — three close finishes and
the officiating but not the perpetual
seven that only a mother could love.
ineptitude of his team, while Buffs
The only rivalry in the country
coach Mel Tucker set his sights on
that is less pitiful is the Rio Grande
Nebraska. And while alumni of the
Rivalry, the clash of cupcake
schools either drunkenly basked in
schools New Mexico University
success or wallowed in misery, the
and New Mexico State University.
rest of the state was left wondering,
The Land of Enchantment’s two
“What the hell was that?”
best football schools have won
What “that” was, was just another iteration of one of the nation’s worst in-state
Photo obtained from Colorado State University Flickr A defender for the Colorado State University Rams football team makes a tackle against the University of Colorado-Boulder at the 2018 Rocky Mountain Showdown at Broncos Stadium at Mile High on Aug. 31, 2018. The Buffaloes would win 45-13 for their fourth straight victory against CSU.
less than 30% of their games, combined, over the last ten years. In Colorado, a storm is growing
clinch their ninth losing season
The Rocky Mountain Showdown
a mirage of a spring that only the
in a decade. A few hours north of
is an abomination to the great
students and alumni of CU or CSU
and it’s time to brace ourselves. Any
Boulder, the Rams have technically
sport of gridiron football. No rivalry
can manage a sip of water from.
football fan in this land-locked state
been better, but that’s not a high
whose best source of pride is,
The rest of us are left parched.
20th century, according to
will continue to be enveloped by a
bar to meet. Yes, Colorado State
“At least we’re not New Mexico
SportsReference, there have been
wave of crap based on the trajectory
has made four bowl games since
State,” doesn’t deserve any hype.
82 Rocky Mountain Showdowns
of both schools. The Buffaloes
2009. Yes, they won the 2013 New
— the Buffs have won 59 of those.
are frantically trying to save the
Mexico Bowl in a thrilling fashion.
Pioneers, ThunderWolves,
between the schools’ home cities.
That comes out to a winning
sliver of hope they had from an
But sandwiching that single season
Falcons, Orediggers, Grizzlies
Fort Collins and Boulder needn’t
percentage of 72 in favor of
outlier 2016 campaign, where they
are nine others that are mediocre
and transplants among others,
leave their bubble again, we’re done
Boulder, making it the fourth
made it to the Pac-12 Conference
to flat-out bad. Bobo isn’t doing
have sat down and watched this
hosting their tire fire of a rivalry.
least-competitive matchup out
Championship game only to be put
himself any favors, either. A second
game expecting to have our thirst
of the 28 most-played, in-state
in their place by Washington. After
losing season could likely seal his
for good football quenched after
football rivalries in the NCAA
starting 5-0 last year, the Buffaloes
fate, as he has gone winless in three
seven long months. But the game
Football Bowl Subdivision. Unlike
dropped seven straight games to
bowl games in his five-year tenure.
unfolding in front of us is merely
college football rivalries. Since the turn of the
In the past, Roadrunners,
Thank the football gods that the Rocky Mountain Showdown is leaving Denver to alternate
Rocky Mountain Showdown by the numbers Using numbers obtained from SportsReference.com to rank each state’s most-played, in-state only, and active rivalry, the Rocky Mountain Showdown is more futile than one might think. Twenty-eight states qualified for the final ranking, and were judged based off each of the following
The 5 least competitive in-state rivalries 1.
Oklahoma State) Oklahoma has won
combined winning percentage
76% of the matchups.
Bedlam Series (Oklahoma vs.
years, and each team’s combined
3.
winning percentage in bowl
Washington State) Washington has
games in the last ten years.
won 73% of the matchups.
category, “highlighted” by the Buffs and Rams posting a .166 winning percentage in bowl games. For an in-depth analysis, visit mymetmedia.com.
Apple Cup (Washington vs.
4. Rocky Mountain Showdown 5.
Mountain Showdown has the secondworst matchup in this stat, second only
2.
The Rocky Mountain Showdown
Of the 28 judged rivalries, the Rocky
won 81% of the matchups.
percentage of the series leader,
ranked in the bottom four in each
is the combined winning
percentage of CU and CSU since 2009.
vs. New Mexico State) New Mexico has
three stat categories: winning
of each team over the last ten
.386
Rio Grande Rivalry (New Mexico
Battle of the Brothers (Utah vs.
Utah State) Utah has won 70% of the matchups.
to New Mexico and New Mexico State.
CU
CSU The Buffaloes have won
71.9%
of the matchups since the turn of the 20th century. This makes the rivalry the fourth least-competitive most-played, in-state only, and active rivalry.
EVENTS
10
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
MSU DENVER EVENTS
Auraria Campus Blood Drive Date Location
Sept. 5 St. Cajetan’s
LOCAL EVENTS
First Friday Art Walk Date Location
Sept. 6 Center for Visual Art
Larry The Cable Guy Date Location
Sept. 7 Bellco Theater
Nate Bargatze: Good Problem to Have Date Location
Sept. 7 Paramount Theater
Price
Free
Price
Free
Price
$40 - $60
Price
$35
Time
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Time
6 - 8 p.m.
Time
8 p.m.
Time
7 p.m.
Faculty concert: Patricia Surman (flute) and Jooeun Pak (piano) Date Location
Sept. 9 King Center Recital Hall
Hot Topic: Immigration Date Location
Sept. 10 Tivoli Multicultural Lounge
Denver Margarita Crawl
Bernie Sanders Campaign Rally
Date
Sept. 7
Date
Location
Denver
Location
Sept. 9 Civic Center Park
Price
Free with student ID
Price
Free
Price
$20
Price
Free
Time
7:30 p.m.
Time
12:30 p.m.
Time
2 - 7 p.m.
Time
6 p.m.
LOCAL SPORTS
Colorado Rapids vs. Seattle Sounders (MLS Soccer) Date Location
Sept. 7 Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
15th Annual Make-a-Wish Kickball Tournament Date Location
Sept. 7 Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
8th Annual Givesports Drive Date Location
Sept. 7 Pepsi Center
MSU Denver Invitational (Tennis) Date Location
Sept. 7 Regency Athletic Complex
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Free
Price
Free for students
Time
7 p.m.
Time
8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Time
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Time
8 a.m.
MSU Denver vs. St. Mary’s Texas (Women’s Soccer) Date Location
Sept. 7 Regency Athletic Complex
University of Colorado Buffaloes vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers Date Location
Sept. 7 Folsom Field
MSU Denver at Farmers Insurance Sam Proal Invitational (Golf)
MSU Denver vs. St. Edwards Texas (Women’s Soccer)
Date
Sept. 9
Date
Location
Pueblo
Location
Sept. 9 Regency Athletic Complex
Price
Free for students
Price
Varies
Price
Varies
Price
Free for students
Time
1 p.m.
Time
1:30 p.m.
Time
TBA
Time
3 p.m.
CONCERTS
Fruition Date Location
The National Sept. 5 Red Rocks Amphitheater
Date Location
Sept. 6 Mission Ballroom
The Distillers Date Location
Sept. 7 Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater
Bobby McFerrin Date Location
Sept. 7 Boettcher Concert Hall
Price
$46 - $71
Price
$55 - $91
Price
$45 - $300
Price
TBA
Time
6:30 p.m.
Time
8 p.m.
Time
6:30 p.m.
Time
7:30 p.m.
Pitbull Date
Face Vocal Band Sept. 8
Location Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater
Date Location
Sept. 8 Levitt Pavillion Denver
First Annual CRUSH Concert Date Location
Sept. 8 Mission Ballroom
Price
$30 - $229
Price
Up to $30
Price
$39 - $79
Time
7:30 p.m.
Time
4 p.m.
Time
8 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
SEPTEMBER 4, 2019
Overheard
11
Horoscopes
“I just feel bad for what the chihuahuas are going through.”
Capricorn
Cancer
“I’m always a fan of male-tomale non-sexual cuddling.”
As the temperature drops, so will your motivation, dear Capricorn. At least try to get your homework done before starting the tenth Pinterest DIY you also won’t finish.
You will have to choose between work and play more and more this cycle, Cancer. Work may be important, but there are no downsides to an occasional mental health day.
Aquarius
Leo
A mistake you made long ago may come back to haunt you this cycle, Aquarius. It wouldn’t hurt to delete all of your tweets from when you were 13 and got really into My Chemical Romance.
Leo season is over and this cycle will be rough on you. It is important to follow your gut and make time for your loved ones.
“Unfortuantely, it’s not enough tentacles for hentai.” “We’re a frat for justice and consent.”
Pisces
Top 5
Big changes are coming, Pisces. Take a note from your fishy symbol and go with the flow, even if it feels like being shot out of a cannon like an internet salmon.
states to drive through
Aries
1. Colorado
Love is in the air this cycle, Aries. Taking things slow isn’t your strong suit but maybe try not to drop a deposit on a wedding flower arrangement after the first date.
2. California
Taurus
3. Oregon
You’ll face a financial obstacle this cycle, Taurus. It could be as small as losing some change in the couch, or as big as your financial aid not going through because “Starting fights on Facebook” isn’t a recognized major.
4. Montana 5. Hawaii
Virgo Congrats, Virgo, you made it to your season. Make plenty of memories and try not to get crushed by the pressure of responsibility, you’ll have next cycle for that.
Libra You’ll be tempted to settle for mediocrity this cycle, Libra. Always examine the chances you are given, and consider if you should move on to better things.
Scorpio As fall approaches the smell of dying leaves and pumpkin spice will begin to activate your unfiltered Scorpio energy. You still have a month before this energy hits its peak so until then, we suggest deep breathing exercises.
Gemini
Sagittarius
You may be under a lot of stress right now, Gemini, but you’re hiding it well. Try to find time to relax and don’t be surprised when opposing signs see right through your poker face.
You’re going to find joy in an unexpected place this cycle, Sagittarius. Continue to be adventurous but also explore relationships and responsibilities you already consider familiar.
Photo of the Week As of 8 p.m. Tuesday, Hurricane Dorian
hurricane, Dorian has already proven itself
had crawled away from the Bahamas as a
stronger than any Labor Day hurricane since
Category 2 hurricane. The storm spent the
1935, according to The Atlantic. This week’s
weekend pummeling the Bahamas and lingered
photo of the week is a reminder of the power
there through Monday. On Tuesday, The New
of nature, and to appreciate the advantages
York Times reported that five people were
of the landscape around us, but also to lend
confirmed dead, and thousands of homes had
a helping hand to those in need whenever
been destroyed. As the storm approaches
a disaster occurs. Hurricane season is only
the eastern coast of the United States,
beginning, so if you know someone in the path
evacuations have been ordered in Florida,
of Dorian, let them know they’re on your mind.
Georgia and the Carolinas. A record-setting
Easy
Medium
Photo obtained from Flickr
Hurricane Dorian hurdles toward the coast of Florida, with meterologists calling it a Category 2 storm, as of Sept. 3.
Hard
Answers:
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
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