VOLUME 114 ISSUE 2 © 2022
“Compared to last year it’s more fo cused on letting potential recruits going and meeting individual chapters in person and seeing those chapters’ individual spac es and houses, so they get more of a feel for the environment in which they would spend a lot of their time in if they were to join a chapter,” Kessler said.
GENEVIEVE TLUSTOS Editor-in-Chief Gov. Mike Parson spoke at the Uni versity Farm at Truman State Univer sity Thursday, Aug. 25. The speech was part of the governor’s statewide tour to explain why he is call ing a special session that will focus on extending agricultural tax credits and the largest income tax cut in state history, Parson said. University President Sue Thomas said the trip was also a good op portunity to show Parson what is happen ing at Truman and in Kirksville. Parson spoke about his plan to ex tend the agricultural tax credits bill to help agriculture. The tax credits reduce taxes owed for those who contribute financial or technical assistance to ag ricultural businesses. He also said the tax cuts would be the largest in Mis souri’s history but they will continue to maintain state programs. Thomas said she was able to show Parson the Kirk Building and tell him about the Student Success and SKILLS Center the University will create. Thomas said Parson saw the construction at the Greenwood Inter professional Autism Center and she gave him a packet highlighting the Kirk Building and Greenwood as well as the Nursing Simulation Lab and Pershing remodel.
SETH JARVIS Staff Writer
tic to work with,” Young said. ”They’ve worked really well together to get that fa cilityYoungbuilt.”said the University was mo tivated to develop an esports program for a few reasons. With esports becom ing increasingly popular, the University wanted to remain up to date with other universities by building its own program. In addition, a survey the University con ducted during Spring 2022 revealed a large portion of the student body was interested in an esports program at Tru man. Young said an esports program could also be an effective recruitment tool for the University.
SETH JARVIS Staff Writer
Trumanesportsintroducesprogram Gov. Parson visits Truman Farm FSL returns to in-person activities
Fraternity and Sorority Life at Tru man has largely returned to in-person activities during Fall 2022 after many recruitment activities had been canceled because of the pandemic.
The esports team discusses a recent game. The esports team’s new room is in Barnett Hall. Photo by Seth Jarvis Gov. Parson speaks with constituents. Parson spoke about agriculture tax credits during his speech.
“Compared to last year it’s more focused on letting potential recruits going and meeting individual chapters in person and seeing those chapters’ individual spaces and houses ...” -Joe PresidentKesslerofIFC
Fraternities worked during Truman Week to recruit freshmen into their or ganizations. They hosted games on the Quad and invited the new students to their fraternity houses so they could learn more about organizations they were considering.
The University could potentially integrate esports with student stud ies, Young said. For instance, esports has broadcasters similar to a football or basketball announcer, referred to as shopcasters, who explain the plays of a game. The communication department teaches journalism, which includes broadcasting, so those interested in the field could have a way to further devel op their skills through esports. Young said the esports program is cen tered in Barnett Hall. Over the summer, Barnett 2209 was completely transformed into a computer lab for the program to practice and meet.
Photo by Genevieve Tlustos
See ESPORTS page 3 See PARSON page 5 See FSL page 3
Junior Zach Stellhorn, IFC vice pres ident of recruitment, said in-person meetings have helped improve numbers and make connections between poten tial members and fraternities.
A brand new esports team is being put together during Fall 2022 to compete against other colleges and introduce an other avenue for students to be involved in theTryoutsUniversity.forthe “Rocket League” and “League of Legends” teams were Aug. 27 and 28 respectively. Seven people tried out for Rocket League Aug. 27 and twelve tried out for League of Legends the following day. Jared Young, director of academic af fairs operations, explained the process of
Photo by Genevieve Tlustos Fraternity and Sorority Life host an in-person interest barbecue. FSL has recently moved to doing more in-per son activities, including recruitment.
assembling an esports team for the Uni versity, which began during Fall 2021. Young said a wide variety of groups across the University, including deans, department chairs, faculty, ITS and other staff members, were all involved in cre ating the program. They met with people involved in the esports industry, particu larly at the college level, to learn about preparing the program at the University.
“The people who have been involved in creating the esports program whether on the committee over the past year or the folks actually getting the work done in the facility from ITS, to campus planning, to the physical plant, they’ve been fantas
Senior Joe Kessler, president of the Interfraternity Council, explained that potential recruits have been able to meet with fraternities in-person and get a closer look at the environments of each respective fraternity.
Truman State University tmn.truman.edu @TrumanIndex @TrumanIndexTHURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 tmn.truman.eduVehicles broken into on campus, page 3 Top five desserts in Kirksville, page 7 “House of the Dragon” review, page 8 membersShowgirlscallforrecognition page 12
Spike and Sue Thomas lead the countdown to the new school year. Students could write down any resolutions they had for the year. Students dance at the event. Students could write down bad habits on a sheet of paper and burn it
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 20222
Above: Students dance at the event. All students, faculty and staff were invited to attend.
The Index
Students gather at “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” The event took place Aug. 21, the night before classes started. Photos by Oliver Malone
Left: Students talk at the “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” Faculty and staff served mocktails to students at the event.
Students celebrate at “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with President Sue Thomas”
Carnes said the drugs, combined with the lack of stimulation and things to do in Kirksville, may be part of what leads people to commit crimes like this. “I think that Kirksville Parks and Rec are doing a really good job at trying to get out there,” Carnes said. “But hope fully, people on campus can do a really good job of joining community things so that there’s less need for petty theft and things like that.”
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O’Connor said they have had more personal engagement with prospective members, with more in-person events being held this year. Those interested in joining a social sorority can visit the organizations they are interested in and then decide, O’Connor said.
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The esports team playing “Rocket League”. The esports team practices games and meets in Barnett 2209. Photos by Seth Jarvis.
The new security cameras installed over the summer have been used several times, such as for vehicle and bicycletype incidents, Cordray said. “Without [the security cameras] we wouldn’t have any idea of who it was, when it was, how it happened,” Cordray said. “So it really helps fill in a lot of blanks.” While the new security cameras can provide leads that University Police may not have otherwise, they still need to iden tify the suspects in the video, Cordray said.
“I think that we’re going to see some of the numbers [of reported vehicle break-ins] increasing. Because people know that we have cameras, they’re more likely to report [vehicle breakins],” Cordray said. “Whereas before, if nothing was missing, maybe they didn’t report it, so our numbers for [vehicle break-ins] may go up.”
Cars are parked in a Residence Hall parking lot. The vehicles that were broken into were all in University parking lots, which have recently had security cam eras installed.
Suspicious activity reported at Ryle Hall 8/19 Suspicious activity reported at the 300 block of E. Burton St. 8/21 Burglary reported at the 1000 block of E. Pat terson St. 8/22 Stolen bicycle report ed at Ryle Hall 8/23 Stolen bicycle re ported at Blanton Nason Brewer Hall 8/25 Shoplifting reported at the 2200 block of N. Baltimore St. 8/26 Suspicious activity reported at Barnett Hall 8/26 Animal reported run ning loose at Franklin St. 8/26 Drive600damageProperty/vehiclereportedattheblockofCollegePark 8/26 Stolen bicycle report ed at the 400 block of W. Fillmore St. 8/26 Burglary reported at the 900 block of Pierce St. 8/27 Assault reported at the 200 block of S. Mulanix St. 8/27 Trespassing reported at the 900 block of W. Lo cust St. 8/28 Stolen bicycle report ed at the 500 block of N. Elson St. 8/28 Suspicious activity reported at the 1900 block of Hamilton St. 8/28 Assault reported at the 400 block of S. Baltimore 8/28St. Domestic disturbance reported at the 1400 block of Baird St.
On Aug. 21, there were multiple ve hicle break-ins in the Truman State Uni versity parking lots. The break-ins occurred in the Campbell Apartments, the soccer field and Ryle Hall parking lots. There were several individuals involved with the break-ins, and at least seven cars were broken into, said University Police Sergeant Jeremy Cordray. “There were probably cars they got into and didn’t take anything from,” Cordray said. “A lot of the things that were taken were fairly minor or insignificant, that I’m aware of.”
Senior Alec Mundle, coach of the “League of Legends” team, said he has an extensive background in esports. Mundle coached esports in high school for eight Mundlemonths.saidone of the most helpful parts of developing the team was when program leaders went to the Missouri Scholastic Esports Federation Confer ence during the summer, where they connected with high school and college coaches at the event. “I’m very excited to see the program grow,” Mundle said. “I’m very excited to see how esports does at Truman, and I’m sure that we’re going to be successful.”
DPS & KPD FSL members serve potential members food. FSL is now able to return to inperson events for recruitment. Crime Reports
The items taken were mainly coins and personal items like cell phone ca bles, Cordray said.
Cordray said as far as University Po lice can tell, the vehicles broken into were unlocked. On the security camera video, it does not appear that anyone forced their way in. There are no reports of property damage to the vehicles, Cordray said.
Truman begins a new esports team FSL| Recruitment for FSL returning to in-person
Cordray said that even though there are cameras on campus now, people should still report suspicious activity. Some students expressed opinions on how safe they believe their belongings are on “It’scampus.notnecessarily that I believe my stuff is unsafe, but it feels like the University won’t take responsibility for if something does happen to my belong ings,” senior Tyler Kim said.
ESPORTS|
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 3The Index
Kessler said there have been more op portunities for new students to meet people on campus and in different or ganizations this year with more open inpersonAug.events.28
Photo by Emily Collins
Junior Lucy O’Connor, social chair and events planner for Sigma Sigma Sigma, said Panhellenic recruitment will begin Sep. 6 and will end Sep. 11. She explained the numbers are looking good this year, with around 100 women signed up for Panhellenic recruitment and around 40 signed up for IFC recruitment.
MATT FRANK Managing Editor
Photos by Genevieve Tlustos
FSL chapters’ letters near the Kirk Memorial. The FSL chap ters can use in-person events like the barbecue to recruit.
FSL hosted a barbecue to introduce stu dents and allow them to socialize with members of different sororities and fraternities on the Quad. FSL has not held this event for the past several years because of COVID restrictions. Later in the semester, other events, such as tabling, will take place. Sep. 8, the 12 social fraternities on campus will present at a recruitment assembly to talk about their fraternities to prospective members. “I’d just say to check it out,” Stell horn said. “I know my freshman year, I was set on not joining a fraternity. Then my second semester came around, and I thought I’d give it a try, and it’s probably been the best decision of my college ca reer. Give it a try and check out as many fraternities as you want because, at the end of the day, we want you to go where you best fit in, and I think there is a spot for everyone to fit in here.”
Because of the new security cameras, it may be possible that the number of vehicle break-in reports will increase, Cordray said.
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Another student, junior MaKenna Carnes, said she thinks campus crimes are often petty crimes when compared to other Kirksville crimes. Carnes is a lifetime resident of Kirks ville, and she believes drugs are a large problem in the Kirksville community.
Senior Isiah Slater, coach of the “Rocket League” team, has been greatly involved in the Truman esports program, completing tasks such as creating promo tional material for the team. Throughout the summer, Slater and others involved in developing the program visited schools such as Columbia College to see how their esports programs run. One thing they noticed is the games that are free and easy to learn are the most popular games. Slater said “Rocket League” and “League of Legends” were chosen as the games of the program due to being in the top four of games selected in a survey sent out among students as well as being free to play. Slater said he encouraged students to talk about the new program and reach out to the esports team to show their support.
Young said the two titles they will be playing are “Rocket League” and “League of Legends.” Once the team is set up, they will compete in a variety of scrimmages during the semester. There will be opportuni ties for Truman students to watch livestreams of the games. Charles McAdams, interim ex ecutive vice president for academic affairs and provost, said he strongly supports the addition of an esports program at the University. “Students coming to universities to day kind of want and expect some things like this. I think it’s terrific,” McAdams said. “For one thing I think it will be a good recruitment tool for us as more and more high schools have esports pro grams and for students that engage in these kind of programs in high school, well, they’re going want to go to univer sities that have active esports programs.”
Vehicles broken into on campus
Contact EDITORIAL POLICY: The Index is published Thursdays during the academic year by students at Truman State University, Kirksville, MO 63501. The production offices are located in Barnett Hall 1200. We can be reached by phone at 660-785-4449. The Index is a designated public forum, and content of The Index is the responsibility of The Index staff. The Editor-in-Chief consults with the staff and adviser but ulti mately is responsible for all decisions. Opinions of The Index columnists are not necessarily representative of the opinions of the staff or the newspaper. Our View editorials rep resent the view of the Editorial Board through a two-thirds majority vote. The Editorial Board consists of the Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor, section editors, copy chief and assistant copy chief. The Index reserves the right to edit submitted material because of space limita tions, repetitive subject matter, libelous content or any other reason the Editor-in-Chief deems appropriate. Submitted material includes advertisements and letters to the editor.
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Stargazers is ready for the year
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LETTER POLICY: e Index welcomes letters to the editor from the University and Kirksville community. Letters to the editor are due by noon the Sunday before publication and become property of e Index upon submission. Once submitted, the letter is subject to editing for grammar and spelling errors Submissions must contain a well-developed theme and cannot exceed 500 words except at the discretion of the opinions editor and/or editor-in-chief. Submission does not guarantee publication. Letters containing personal attacks, libelous attacks or inaccurate information will not be published. All letters to the editor must be typed and submitted by email to index.opinionseditor@gmail.com or online at tmn.truman.edu Include the words “letter to the editor” in the subject line of the email. Letters which are not submitted digitally will not be taken in consideration
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“What do you want to be when you grow up?” is the re curring question of your early years, but the answer is not taken literally until you have reached a certain point in your life. Even then, how can you be so sure that you have found the purpose that will ultimately define your life? Like many others, I was first given this prompt in a serious manner around 16 years old. I have always viewed an indi vidual’s later high school years as some of the most personal ity defining moments of their life – this is a critical time when you don’t necessarily know who you are as a person, let alone what career path you want to take. At this time of my life, I was doing well in my science classes, and my counselor suggested that I start with what I am good at and go from there. The first mistake I made was focusing on what I was already capable of rather than discov ering what I wanted to learn more about. Initially, I considered pursuing nursing because it has a di rect impact on people’s lives while including the science and medical elements I found fascinating, but that was quickly off the table after I realized bodily fluids make me queasy. Still wanting to remain in the medical field in some way, I began to do more research on becoming a physi cal therapist. I soon found out that there were many pros to the job that I was already comfortable with, such as helping to rehabilitate others without the use of medical tools used by doctors and nurses. By graduation, I had decided to attend Truman State as an exercise science major with the intention to apply to physical therapy school afterwards. Next thing I knew, freshman year had flown by, and I was sitting pretty. It wasn’t until my third semester that I hit a wall: I was having a hard time keeping up in my upper level science courses. This led to me falling be hind in others that I should not have been, not getting enough sleep, feeling stressed and overwhelmed more often and an overall sense of misdirection. Coming to terms with the fact I wanted to change my major was a huge weight off of my shoulders. I decided to pursue my dream of working in the entertainment industry and became a communications major with a concentration in journalism and a minor in film studies. I came to this conclusion because I have always wanted to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of movies and tele vision shows. After I had officially changed my major, I immediately felt relieved that I would be able to enjoy my last two years of college. Although it was a big change for me, I truly could not have done it without the help from my advisers and the support I continue to receive from my professors. I can confidently say that I feel happier with my decision and am glad to have learned a valuable les son — what you might be inherently “good at” does not always align with what you are passionate about. My biggest fear going into this process was worrying about what other people might think; there seems to be some sort of negative connotation around not knowing what you want to do or changing your mind. If there’s one piece of advice I would like everyone to know, it’s to not be afraid to change your mind, and then change it again.
JUSTIN CARINGAL Stargazers Treasurer and Webmaster / Public Relations Chair
Assistant City Manager Ashley Young said Kirksville is a regional hub and the new retail options will draw people in from surrounding communities, bringing in money and providing employment oppor tunities. We are excited to see the new growth in the community. Many Truman students are from bigger cities, such as St. Louis and Kansas City, and are used to bigger retail stores in their hometowns. These additions are exciting for many students, who enjoy being able to visit their favorite stores. However, while many na tional companies have opened locations in Kirksville, several small businesses, mostly in the downtown area, have closed. For example, Caffiend Fix and Wine on Washington were two local ly owned businesses that have closed in the past few years. We believe that while these large businesses are great addi tions to the city of Kirksville, students should not forget about local small businesses. Many small-business owners have lived locally for a long time and care deeply about the com munity. These small businesses are essential to the culture and history of a small town. They de pend on the success of their busi nesses as their way of life. As students, we can learn a lot about the community we live in by visiting these businesses and talking to the owners. We believe that students should con tinue to go to these businesses when possible, because they are the heart of our city.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 20224
LETTER POLICY: The Index welcomes letters to the editor from the University and Kirksville community. Letters to the editor are due by noon the Sunday before publication and become property of The Index upon submission. Once submitted, the letter is subject to editing for grammar, punctuation and spelling errors. Submissions must contain a well-developed theme and cannot exceed 500 words, except at the discretion of the opinions editor and/ or Editor-in-Chief. The Index suggests that submissions be written about current events or public issues that need to be brought forth, and should offer a valid argument. Submission does not guarantee publication, especially when submissions fail to add something to the current discussion. Letters containing personal attacks, libelous attacks or inaccurate information will not be published. All letters to the editor must be typed and submitted by email to index.editor@truman.edu or online at tmn.truman.edu. Include the words “letter to the editor” in the subject line of the email. Letters which are not submitted digitally will not be taken into consideration.
CORRECTION: Last issue’s story “Manhunt continues into third week” stated Jesse Rongey shot and dismembered Stephen Munn. The story should have stated Jesse Rongey is suspected by law enforcement to have shot and dismembered Stephen Munn.
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During my freshman year, I was looking for organizations to join and stumbled across a club called Stargaz ers. It piqued my interest, so I joined the mailing list and attended the first open house of the year with a friend, not ex pecting much from it. But after a year in the club, I can firmly say that the club has provided me with experiences that I never would have had otherwise and people I can call lifelong friends. Stargazers is Truman’s astronomy club for students who are passionate about the cosmos while also having a fun and laid back atmosphere. We host open houses at Truman’s Observatory where we bring telescopes, gaze up at the night sky and hang out with friends. We also host weekly meet ings where we discuss the latest in as tronomical news and laugh at various as pects of sci-fi and space-related culture. We are also branching out, with col laborations between Truman’s Plane tarium and other clubs in the works, as well as possible night hikes and private planetarium showings. We have meetings each week Mon days at 5:30 p.m. Our first open house is 8 p.m. Sept.1 at the Truman Observatory. A map to the observatory can be found at observatory.truman.edu. For questions or more information, or to join our mailing list, please con tact us at stargazers@truman.edu or me at jac5566@truman.edu. You can follow us on Twitter and Instagram, @ tsustargazers. We hope to see you all soon and wish you all good luck at the start of another semester!
Recently, two national re tail stores, Five Below and Old Navy, opened in Kirksville. We as an Editorial Board think the addition of these stores will be beneficial to Kirksville, but that students should still continue to support small businesses.
ISSUE 2 © 2022tmn.truman.edu @TrumanIndex@TrumanIndexVOLUME 114 index.editor@truman.edu
Supportbusinessessmall
It’s okay to change your major
NATALIE MORRISON Staff Writer
EDITORIAL POLICY: e Index is published ursdays during the academic year by students at Truman State University, Kirksville, MO 63501. e production o ces are located in Barnett Hall 1200. We can be reached by phone at 660-785-4449. e Index is a designated public forum, and content of e Index is the responsibility of e Index sta . e editor-in-chief consults with the sta and adviser but ultimately is responsible for all decisions Opinions of e Index columnists are not necessarily representative of the opinions of the sta or the newspaper. Our View editorials represent the view of the Editorial Board through a two-thirds majority vote. e Editorial Board consists of the editor-in-chief, managing editor, section editors, copy chief and assistant copy chief. e Index reserves the right to edit submitted material because of space limitations, repetitive subject matter, libelous content or any other reason the editor-in-chief deems appropriate. Submitted material includes advertisements and letters to the editor
The newly opened Five Below store is on North Baltimore Street. The new businesses are part of a Commu nity Improvement District.
Junior Tahli Gray, a Kirksville resident, said the new businesses allow additional options for finding affordable and fashionable clothing for families in and around the Kirksville area and allow families the opportunity to bond and shop together.
QUINN SLOAN News Editor
Attendees wait for Governor Mike Parson to deliver his speech at the University Farm. Parson spoke about his plan to help agriculture. Pho tos by Genevieve Tlustos
“The arrival of Five Below and Old Navy means that col lege students have more options to choose from in terms of clothing and fun, unique items,” said junior Megan Mocker. “Before they were here, the only options were Marshall’s, Gliks and Walmart, which can be very limiting, especially after four years of living here. I’m just excited to see the growing diversity of shopping outlets here in Kirksville, es pecially for the college student demographic.”
Senior Iva Welbourne thought it was great Parson made the effort to visit the University Farm. Farm manager Bill Kuntz also said he thought it was great that Parson came to see the farm and what students are doing. Kuntz is supportive of the agricultural tax credits and the tax breaks, he said. The special session will take place in Jefferson City Sep. 6.
“Governor Parson has been very supportive of higher education and coming up to see what Truman is doing, he’s very impressed with what we do,” Thomas said. “We have a fabulous reputation in Jefferson City, and we have been working really hard for the state to pay more attention to what Truman is doing.” In the beginning of his speech, Parson said Thomas and her team have done an out standing job and how he was proud to see the construction of Greenwood beginning. Thomas said she thought the farm was a great location for the speech. “Our students and faculty and staff do amazing work at the farm,” Thomas said. “To be able to showcase it is very cool for us.” Northeast Regional Coordinator Mindy Breid, at the Missouri Farm Bureau, was in at tendance Thursday. She said the Farm Bureau was behind the governor regarding both the agricultural tax credits and the tax cuts. “[The tax cuts] will absolutely boost the economy and put more money into the system to where you and I are able to pay our bills and we’re able to support our families and go out and enjoy life a little bit rather than this kind of interest rates that we’re having to deal with right now,” Breid said. “We’re fully supportive of it.” Breid said she loved seeing Parson interact with constituents and it was im portant for the community.
Last week, a new Old Navy location opened in the Kirks ville Commons Shopping Center, shortly after a Five Below store opened in the same shopping center. Assistant City Manager Ashley Young said the businesses will bring new retail options for those in the Kirksville community and sur rounding areas, as well as more employment opportunities.
President Sue Thomas greets Governor Mike Parson Aug. 25. Thomas was able to update Parson on the changes happening at the University.
“[The new businesses bring] college students a little bit of home, in my opinion,” Gray said. “Most people going to school here are from Kansas City or St. Louis, so they have access to stores like Five Below or Old Navy. I think it helps distract students from the daily stresses of school. It’s nice to be able to grab friends and go shop.”
Five Below, Old Navy open in Kirksville
Kirksville has four CIDS — the North Baltimore CID, the South 63 Corridor CID, the Baltimore Commons CID and the Franklin Street CID. The Kirksville Commons Shopping Center is part of the North Baltimore CID and has a 1% additional sales tax to offset the costs of building the strip mall, said Young.
“Kirksville is a regional hub for education, industry and healthcare,” Young said. “You’d have to go to Columbia or Ottumwa, Iowa for something similar to what we have here.”
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 20225 The Index
Parson|Governor speaks about upcoming special session
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Photo by Emily Collins
NATALIE MORRISON Staff Writer
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 20226
“Pretty much every religion has a major holiday in late December,” Smith said. “Wiccans have Yule … I would love to work with other religious organizations on campus to do some kind of larger get-together, fundraiser, whatever.”
ISSUE 2 © 2022tmn.truman.edu @TrumanIndex@TrumanIndexVOLUME 114
Left: A presentation is given to potential members of the new pagan orga nization coming to Truman State University. Founder Caitlyn Smith said she has faced discrimination because of her religion.
“I’ve been involved with witchcraft and Paganism for like two years,” Whiting said. “I thought it was pretty good to see a group forming on campus, so I got pretty excited and decided to come by.” Regarding Pagan Connect’s future, Whiting said they would love to see the group grow because they think it would help extinguish the stigma and make it more widely accepted.
Junior starts pagan group on campus
Photo by Natalie Morrison.
Students write down their names and emails for further information about the Pagan organization coming to campus. Junior Caitlyn Smith leads the organizations creation at Truman State University. Photo by Natalie Morrison.
Here at Truman State University, one of the best ways to feel connected to the campus community is by joining one of the many clubs and organizations representing various hobbies and professional interests. Although there are many ways to get involved, some students more recently have ex pressed feelings of not being completely seen. After facing religious discrimination from her fresh man year roommate, junior Caitlyn Smith is determined to give a platform to others who feel underrepresented. This semester, Smith founded a new group on campus called Pagan Connect. The organization aims to create a community space for students and spread awareness about an uncommon type of religion known as Paganism. Paganism is out side the traditional realm of religions and is not related to any Judeo-Christian religion. Smith herself has been practicing Wicca, one of the most acknowledged Pagan denominations, for the last five years. “We had to choose a topic for a public speaking course that would talk about how you could improve Truman’s campus,” Smith said. “And so I just wrote about how there was nothing for Pagans, no Paganism.” Subsequent to giving a speech on improving Tru man by including a Paganism option on school forms, one of Smith’s classmates suggested that she take mat ters into her own hands. Moving forward, she wants to remove the stigma surrounding Paganism. Her goal is to help make the other Truman religious communities comfortable with Paganism and vice versa by collaborating with other religious organizations on campus to host an informa tional event about their differences and how the history behind them works together and not against each other.
One of the group’s new members, senior Ham Whiting, was ecstatic to learn about its creation. Whiting discovered Pagan Connect through the sidewalk chalkings done by Smith around Truman’s campus and was looking forward to attending the first meeting. While living in the residence halls, Whiting did not make it publicly known that they prac ticed Eclectic Paganism to avoid any strong reactions.
“We had to choose a topic for a public speaking course that would talk about how you could improve Truman’s campus, and so I just wrote about how there was nothing for Pagans, noCaitlynPaganism.”Smith, Junior Religious groups offered at Truman State University Baptist Student Union Campus Christian Fellowship Campus Crusade for Christ Delight Ministries Episcopal Campus Ministry Equipped Fellowship of Christian Athletes Jewish Student Union Kirksville K-Life at Truman State Latter Day Saint Student Association Lutheran Student Association Momentum Ministry Muslim Students Association
Inclusivity is more than a checkbox life
If you’re anything like me, you’ve seen those minion memes that our dear family members post on Facebook saying, “Exercise? I thought you said extra fries,” and the infamous, “My boss told me to have a good day, so I went home.” One that I have taken to heart as a Truman student is, “Stressed spelled backwards is desserts.” I’m constantly stressed during the year, and the best way to manage stress is to listen to those Facebook posts and go out to get some desserts. With that being said, I present to you the top 5 best desserts I’ve had in Kirksville.
Graphics by Maddie Morris
“Renaissance” is a new pop classic
Beyonce is one of the greatest pop artists of all time, with her very name being synony mous with excellence and superstardom. The aptly named “Queen B” has been ubiquitous throughout the pop charts for almost 20 years, with each subsequent project and album gar nering more hype than the last. So, it was no surprise that when Beyonce announced she would release a new album, “Renaissance,” the expectations were stratospheric. Nonethe less, the album left critics and audiences alike gushing with praise. Its unapologetic take on everything from politics to body image to sex uality showcases an artist at their peak. One of my favorite aspects of an album is its ability to sound like a complete and coher ent work. Too often, an album will sound like a collection of singles and not a unified proj ect. “Renaissance” overcomes this problem, allowing songs to have different styles while still sounding like they belong together. The songs are catchy and radio-worthy earworms that contain the politically and socially conscious lyrics we have come to expect from Beyonce. For example, “Cozy” discusses confidence and feeling comfortable in one’s own skin, while “Alien Superstar” is all about confidence in one’s sexuality and sexual abilities. “Energy” is packed with pol itics, making references to the former presi dent Donald Trump leaving office — “voting out 45” — and the Jan. 6 insurrection — “Cause the Karens just turned into terrorists”. “Break My Soul” is the standout track on this album. It manages to stand out as a triumphant and defiant dance anthem in an album chock-full of dance anthems. It is guaranteed to see heavy rota tion at countless clubs and house parties. “Church Girls” utilizes gospel vocals while celebrating good girls gone bad. “Heated” sermonizes about positive body image, and “Thique” is an ab lute bass boosted, speaker busting song that is a guaranteed crowd pleaser wherever it is played. With the COVID-19 pandemic slowing down and the world cautiously return ing to busi ness as usual, people are ea ger to clubsthemselvesthrowintoandparties to make up for the time lost in quarantine and isolation. It is said that history does not often repeat itself, but it sometimes rhymes. During the 1920s, people partied lavishly, tired from World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic. During 2022, this behavior is returning after another devastating pandemic. Seizing upon the public mood, Beyonce created a thunder ing album that captures the public’s post-pan demic longing for social interaction. Just as jazz provided the background mu sic for an era in American history, “Renais sance” will become the soundtrack for the neo-Roaring ’20s. While the album runs a little long, its exceptional fusion of socially conscientious lyrics and catchy pop tunes will make it a classic for decades to come. Although pop music is not my forte, in the words of the greatest doctor of our time, Stephen Strange, “Try me, Beyonce.”
4. Sonic Sonic has one of the most surprisingly diverse dessert menus in Kirksville. They have slushes in just about any flavor along with sun daes, cones, shakes and blasts, which consist of tons of toppings thrown into some ice cream. A direct quote from their website says, “Your ice cream can never be too extra. Add mix-ins or real fruit to your 100% real ice cream!” I think that goes to show just how many options there are to satisfy any dessert craving you may have.
2. To Die For bakery
If you’re taking a walk in downtown Kirksville and have a hankering for a home cooked pastry, be sure to stop by To Die For Bakery. This bakery has just about any thing you could want. There are muffins, cookies, scones, breads, cakes and pies. On top of the wide selection, they rotate certain menu items so you always have an opportunity to try something new — and they can also do custom orders.
Graphics by Maddie Morris
Top five desserts in Kirksville
JACK RATLIFF Staff Writer
“Renaissance” gets 4/5 queen bees
5. Dairy Queen DQ is an oldie but a goodie. They are always consistent with their flavors, and each month you get surprised with a new blizzard. You can mix and match to your liking and make the best tasting blizzard you can think of. My favorite part about DQ isn’t the blizzards though, it’s the ice cream cakes. Ever since I was a kid, I would get them for my birthday, and each year I would look forward to the layered goodness that makes ice cream cakes
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 7The Index
Graphics by Maddie Morris
What is your favorite activity to do at Truman?
During May 2019, “Game of Thrones,” televi sion staple and flagship series of HBO, came to an end with “The Iron Throne,” the final episode of its eighth season. A bitter end, no doubt, as many longtime fans were quick to regard the series’s final season and finale itself as the worst “Game of Thrones” had to offer. Character arcs betrayed, character development ignored and a seeming urgency on the writers’ part to bring the show to a premature close all number among the many reasons why fans regard the ending as a storytelling failure if not a technical marvel. More than three years later comes “House of the Dragon,” a prequel series set nearly 200 years before the events of “Game of Thrones.” “House of the Dragon” tells the tumultuous history of House Tar garyen, a noble family which once ruled over the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros before its decline and even tual exile to Essos, as seen in “Game of Thrones.” At House Targaryen’s shaky command are 17 dragons, each belonging to a member of the house. The prologue of “House of the Dragon” recounts the decision of the now-deceased King Jaehaerys Targaryen to make Viserys, his eldest male descendant, the heir, thus denying Rhaenys, his eldest descendant — a woman — the claim to heirdom. This denial sets the stage for the series’s central drama — a struggle between relatives to claim the Iron Throne and a commentary on medieval and, indeed, modern gender roles. Nine years later, King Viserys eagerly awaits the birth of his son and would-be heir. Introduced are Princess Rhae nyra and Prince Daemon, two other possible heirs should the king be given a daughter with no claim. It is obvious this first episode serves to set the stage for a larger conflict that will no doubt unfold as the series continues, and it would be careless to reveal any further plot points beyond this setting up of the chessboard, so to speak. It can be said definitively that “House of the Dragon” is good — even great — so far. While the onslaught of medieval language, names and titles is overwhelming, veterans of “Game of Thrones” will have little to no trouble adapting. Author George R.R. Martin’s “Fire and Blood,” the encyclopedia which inspired “House of the Dragon,” is a tome rich in detailed lore and characterdriven drama. It is clear the showrunners are passionate fans of Martin and his works. Unlike the rushed nature of the conclusion of “Game of Thrones,” there are no traces of boredom or resignation on the writers’ part. Where the story might buckle is in its lack of distinc tive characters. Many of the characters look physically similar, bear similarly complex names and have the same goal — ascending to the Iron Throne. It’s easy to contrast this aspect with “Game of Thrones” — a series which from the outset introduced a variety of characters dif fering in upbringing, social class and motive. De spite this, there will surely be branching char acter arcs and storylines that may diversify as the larger story unfolds. It’s up to the writ ers not to squander these branches as they did with “Game of Thrones.” As is expected of such a highbudget production from a network known for such outings, “House of the Dragon” is a technical won der. King’s Landing, the capital city of Westeros, is breathtaking. From the commanding towers of the Red Keep to the gargantuan domes of the Dragonpit, from the garish halls and corridors of the palace to the decrepit nastiness of the city streets, each locale is well realized and alive with all the brutality expected of Martin’s world and characters. Like its predecessor, “House of the Dragon” is packed with blood and gore, grotesque injury and petty betrayal at every turn. Not for the faint hearted or weak-stomached, the series continues the precedent set by “Game of Thrones” to portray a brutally realistic story despite that story’s fantastical setting. Much of this brutality is meted out by the series’s most interesting character to date, Prince Daemon Targaryen. In his claim to the throne, Dae mon is willing to tear his way to the top by whatever means necessary. His frightening fervor is well realized by the talented Matt Smith, who portrays the outwardly charm ing but inwardly calculating Daemon with all the gusto of a veteran actor. Paddy Considine as the aging King Viserys and Rhys Ifans as his shifty advisor Otto Hightower like wise impress. Finally, Emma D’Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra will no doubt blossom into a force to be reckoned with as the series’s central conflict gets underway. In all, “The Heirs of the Dragon” is as impressive a pilot episode for “House of the Dragon” as the legendary “Winter is Coming” was for “Game of Thrones.” While the idle viewer may feel overwhelmed by the cast of some what repetitive characters, there is no doubt the board has been set for a veritable game of chess.
Grace McKinnis senior Lucah McCullough senior Cecilia Stokes freshman
“My favorite thing to do in Kirksville is to go to Thousand Hills, just drive there, not actually be there.”
“Well I’ve been here for like a week and a half, but I’m really looking forward to the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine.”
In Perspective
Narratives from the campus community
“House of the Dragon” remembers what “Game of Thrones” could’ve been
“I really like hanging out at the Newman Center, which is the catholic youth center here on campus, I’ve found a good com munity there.”
JOEY DOUGHERTY Staff Writer
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 20228 The Index
“House of the Dragon” gets 4.5/5 flames
Above: Senior goalie Beth Hopwood throws the ball back in. Hopwood saved eight balls for the Bulldogs and earned a shutout. Photos by Oliver Malone Left: Junior midfielder Thomas Weber looks to take the ball. The Bulldogs faced Park University Aug. 26.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 9The Index Bulldogs shutout opposition
ATHLETEoftheweek
Junior outside hitter Hanna Berry had a total of 36 kills for the women’s volleyball team at the Missouri Southern Tournament Aug. 26 and 27. Last season, Berry scored 205 points for the Bulldogs and was third on the team in kills with 167. Berry was named an Academic All-GLVC player.
Freshman midfielder Hanna Ritter keeps the ball away. The Bulldogs faced Davenport University Aug. 28.
HANNA BERRY
Freshman forward Anna Capellari looks up the field. Capellari had two shots on goal for the Bulldogs. Above: Senior defender Jonah Bridges chases after the ball. The Bulldogs beat Park University 2-0. Left: Freshman midfielder Gianna Gorman fights for the ball. The Bulldogs won against Davenport University 1-0.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 202210 The Index
The
This summer, Collin Nurenberg was hired to replace Schwegler as the head coach of the men’s and women’s cross country teams. Tim Schwegler, former Truman State University cross country and track and field head coach, died suddenly this past April during the middle of the track and field season. “[Schwegler’s passing] was a very sudden thing,” sophomore Cora Stimpson said. “It was hard for me to come to terms with. As a team, it created a unique bond because we were able to grieve and experience his loss together.” “It was a surprise to all of us,” said senior Nathan Key. “When something like that happens in the middle of a season, it’s especially tough. It hit the team very hard.” Schwegler, a Truman graduate, coached at Truman starting during 2006 and took over as head coach of the men’s and women’s cross country and track and field teams during 2013. His runners remember him as passionate and caring. “When I was trying to decide what school to go to, coach Schwegler was the deciding factor,” Key said. “He was honest and upfront about everything, which really appealed to me.” “He always wanted the best for his athletes,” Stimpson said. “He really brought the team together in a lot of different ways.” After being an assistant coach at Wayne State University and Northwood University, this is Nurenberg’s first head coaching job. He will also serve as an assistant coach on the track and field teams. Entering after the passing of a long-time coach can be a difficult transition, but Nurenberg is ready to hit the ground running in the new season, he said.
Looking ahead to the fall cross country season, the Bulldogs will aim to return to the Div. II national championships for the first time since 2004. The Bulldogs will have a slightly easier road in the Great Lakes Valley Conference Championship and the Div. II Great Lakes Regional meet this year as Lindenwood University and University of Southern Indiana, two of the top teams in the conference, moved up to Div. I. Nurenberg, with an eye to the future, had each cross country runner fill out a goal sheet for this year to set high standards for themselves and the program. The men’s team, featuring six true freshmen runners, will be a very young group, Nurenberg said. Key, in his final season, commented on his goals for his last year after finishing 24th at the cross country conference championships during 2021, four places below an all-conference recognition. “I want to get all-conference this season. I would also love to get on the all-academic team for this season,” Key said. “For the team, with a new coach and six freshmen, you really just want to see improvement. I think they want to build towards the future and try to build our program up for seasons to come.” On the women’s side, the Bulldogs have a more experienced group, with only three freshmen. After a successful freshman season in which she placed 54th at the GLVC conference championship, Stimpson has her goals set high. “I really want to make it to nationals,” Stimpson said. “Right now, we are a long way from that, but that is where we want to be. For our conference, we want to be top three this year.”
Nurenberg worked quickly to acclimate himself to the team, hosting a team Zoom to introduce himself and meeting with each athlete individually. Both teams responded well to Nurenberg’s new leadership style.
“It’s a different dynamic than we had with Schwegler,” Stimpson said. “Coach Collin is a lot closer to our age and relates with us more, where Schwegler was more of an authority figure. [Nurenberg] has hosted a lot of team bonding activities this summer. He is focused on the team aspect.” “He jumped in right away,” Key said. “He made it a point to hold team bonding activities and wanted to get to know us better before the season. He relates to us a lot more, and the team has really responded well to that.” Nurenberg chose to come to Truman because he found similarities between the University and his alma mater, Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan. Saginaw Valley is a similarly-sized public school in a rural area. Nurenberg said he’s focusing on building a good team culture and program in the long run but thinks it is the athletes that drive team culture, not him. “I think it’s interesting that they [highlight] my team building efforts because I think a lot of that really comes from them,” Nuremberg said. “The athletes are what drive that. This is a group that really enjoys being together. Of course, it’s my job to present opportunities for them to do that, but it’s really them who take charge.”
The
MICHAEL LAKEY Staff Writer
“I also want to learn how to be a better leader for this team,” Stimpson said. “I want to set an example both this year and in the years to come. I think this is a really crucial time in changing the team culture, and I want to be a part of creating a new era for Truman cross country.” Nurenberg was also excited to get to work on building up the Truman program. He said another reason he was drawn to Truman is the University’s winning history and he wants to get the program back to a national pedigree. Since he was not involved in the recruiting for this year’s class, he has already begun his recruitment process for next year. “We have had eight campus visits for prospective runners this semester already,” Nurenberg said. “[Recruiting] is a top priority for me right now because I want to build the depth of this program back up. Right now, we have 12 runners on each team. My goal is to have 20 per team in the near future.” Like his runners, Nurenberg has high expectations for the upcoming season. With two schools departing the conference, he is confident in his team’s ability to compete in the GLVC this year. “I think we can accomplish more than people expect,” Nurenberg said. “On the women’s side, with a more experienced group, I think they can finish top three in the conference. I think the men, especially with so many freshmen, will take their lumps, but it is a great group to continue to grow with.” Bulldogs open their season Sep. 10 at the Les Duke Invite at Grinnell College. Bulldogs open their season Sep. 10 at the Les Duke Invite at Grinnell College.
Cross country welcomes new coach“Ithinkwecanaccomplish more than people expect. On the women’s side, with a more experienced group, I think they can finish top three in the conference. I think the men, especially with so many freshmen, will take their lumps, but it is a great group to continue to grow with.”- Collin Nurenberg Head cross country coach
Left: The women’s cross country team competes during 2021. The Bulldogs will start their season Sep. 10 at the Les Duke Invite against Grinnell College. Submitted Photo
Collin Nurenberg is the new head coach of the men’s and women’s cross country team. Nurenberg will also be the assistant coach of the track and field teams. Photo from TMN Athletics
“I benefitted by coming in after the summer,” Nurenberg said. “I think the athletes had time to process [Schwegler’s passing]. It seems like everyone is focused on moving forward and seeing what we can do this season.”
Women’s soccer placed fourth in the 2022 GLVC Women’s Soccer Preseason Coaches Poll. The Bulldogs faced Saginaw Valley State University Aug. 26 and finished with a draw. Sophomore goalie Tatumn Damron saved five goals. In their next game against Davenport University Aug. 28, the Bulldogs scored with 1 minute 40 seconds left in the game. Freshman defender Avery Bohnenstiehl scored her first collegiate goal. Senior goalie Beth Hopwood had eight saves during the game. The Bulldogs will face Upper Iowa University Sept. 2 at Stokes Stadium.
GLVC
Men’s soccer had a shutout over Park University during their home opener Aug. 26. Sophomore goalie Justin Olwig saved four balls for the Bulldogs. Fifthyear defender Dom DeProspero assisted sophomore midfielder Sam Newton with his first goal of the season and assisted fifth-year midfield and forward Mac Knudsen for another goal. The Bulldogs will face St. Cloud State University Aug. 31 at Stokes Stadium.
Junior middle blocker Emma Wollert smiles at her teammates Sep. 4, 2021. The Bulldogs fell to Missouri S&T.
217 athletes awarded All Academic All Conference Honors 3.30 GPA over two semesters 42 athletes named James Gaffney Distinguished Scholars 4.0 GPA during academic year 37 athletes awarded Council of Presidents Academic Excellence Award 3.5 GPA throughout their academic career Must have competed in the GLVC for a minimum of two years, Must have completed 96 creditAthleteshourscan only earn this honor once in their career Five athletes maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout their career
Justin Watson: Honorable Mention GLVC Graphic by Heather Beard
Men’s soccer earns shutout in home opener
Women’smatchessoccer ranked fourth in preseason poll
Preseason Coach’s Polls: The head coaches in the GLVC vote for their top team of that season
GLVC AWARDS
Freshman defender Greta Hanson moves the ball. The Bulldogs won 1-0 against Davenport University, Aug. 28. Photos by Oliver Malone
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 11The Index
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Athletic Academic
Volleyball looks forward to up coming
Ulysses Ross
Truman sports in brief: week of Aug. 28
Football: Second Men’s soccer: 11th Women’s soccer: Fourth Volleyball: 13th Football Kickoff: Two athletes from each of the GLVC schools were picked to attend the 2022 GLVC Football Kickoff to help promote the Conference’s 11th season
Senior midfielder and defender Adam Shine kicks a corner kick Aug. 26. The Bulldogs faced Park University in their home opener and won 2-0.
Women’s volleyball played in the Missouri Southern Tournament Aug. 26 and 27 to start their season. The Bulldogs fell to Southwestern Oklahoma State University and Missouri Southern State University on the first day. They were led by freshman Annabelle Crowder who had a total of 22 kills and senior middle blocker Ainsley Heise with five aces Aug. 26. The next day the Bulldogs fell to Northwestern Oklahoma State University and Newman University. On Aug. 27, the team was led in kills by outside hitter Hanna Berry with 22 and Jessica Proszenyak with 17. The Bulldogs will play in the Augustana Invite Sep. 2 and 3.
“I think it creates a lot of personal drive and sometimes coaches can be kind of self-interested, but I think that almost not having one, it makes us work together as a team better and just like we have to step up,” captain Lydia McDonald said. The captains are responsible for making most of the team’s decisions but have Joyce Carnes, a process support specialist at the Admissions Office, available for support. McDonald said the captains go to Carnes for leadership, financial and other advice. The captains, chosen by other girls on the team, are responsible for everything else related to the team and do more than just choreographing the dances. The captains give a speech, and the rest of the team votes.
The Truman State Showgirls Dance team currently consists of 11 student-athletes. They are not funded by Truman State University or considered a sport through the NCAA.
The captains work together with the rest of the Showgirls to make their routines possible. Freese said all the Showgirls really care about the team and are willing to work and help. Any of the girls would be willing to step in and help if asked, Freese said. Each element of the team is run by a Showgirl. Hardin and junior Taylor Hennes are event coordinators, freshman Sylvia Harding is the fundraising coordinator, junior Avery Drake is the treasurer, and freshman Avery Warlen is the social media coordinator.
SHOWGIRL MEMBERS CALL FOR RECOGNITION
The team saw the effects from COVID-19 just like everyone else. The team did not have the opportunities to dance in the ways they had in the past.
Truman State Showgirls perform at halftime during a football game during 2021. The team also performs at basketball games. Submitted Photos
McDonald said they practiced two hours Monday through Thursday last week and will practice Monday through Friday this week, all for a game on Saturday.
One event that the Showgirls participate in every year is the National Dance Association Camp. They get evaluated on how well they learn the dance, and this year they earned a Blue Ribbon, McDonald said. “It’s probably the hardest thing we’ve done together as a team,” Freese said. “It really works us, and we learned a lot from it, and I think it was a great like kickstart after COVID.”
Truman State Showgirls is a student led organization made up of 11 student-athletes. The team is not recognized by Truman Athletics.
The team showcases their dances at the school’s basketball and football games at halftime and on the sidelines. McDonald said they can also be found at the homecoming tailgate, The Society of Dance Arts and Macon’s Christmas Parade. Freese said the team is similar to the Spirit Squads found at other schools. “I really enjoy basketball season,” Freese said. “Every week or every other week we’re learning two new dances and performing them. It’s really fast paced, so it can get stressful sometimes, but I think it’s really fun to keep learning new McDonalddances.”saidshe has been able to travel for a game with Showgirls once her freshman year, but they do not often have the opportunity. McDonald said being captain of the dance team, teaching dance classes in town and being a senior has been“It’soverwhelming.helpfulthatalot of the girls on the team are in the same boat,” Hardin said. “A lot of us are in sororities, and so there’s a lot of understanding. If I have something that I really need to do, I will just talk to Lydia.” They face other sorts of challenges as well. For example, last year the team did not know if they would have somewhere to practice. Hardin said their usual dance studio in Pershing was being renovated, so last year’s captain had to make reservations either in a Student Union Building room or off campus. Just finding a place to practice was a struggle, Hardin said. “They remodeled the studio in Pershing which is awesome, but we have a dancer who’s really tall, and so she will hit her arm on the ceilings when we do things full out so … we’ve got to work around that,” McDonald said. McDonald said since coming back from the pandemic the Showgirls have been able to bring back a lot of fun traditions. “I kind of forget that I am at practice two hours a day because I’m just having fun, hanging out with my friends and doing what I love to do,” Hardin said. McDonald said they have summer workouts they are required to do in order to keep in shape. She said they also have a week-long camp right before school starts during the fall.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 202212 ISSUE 2 © 2022tmn.truman.edu @TrumanIndex@TrumanIndexVOLUME 114
McDonald said the two years before she started and her freshman year they were not pushing themselves as much or requiring as much from themselves. McDonald said she did not feel proud of what she did or the work she put in during that time. “We had really good leadership last year,” McDonald said. ” I think we were all ready to just get back into it, push ourselves and have something that we were really, really proud of.”
- Lydia ShowgirlsMcDonaldcaptain
Senior co-captain Sydnie Freese said she didn’t think their lack of a coach was an issue, since sometimes coaches can be chaotic.
“We’re practicing every day, four weekdays for two hours each day, and we are doing conditioning when we are not getting ready for a game, so sometimes it is kind of frustrating that we are not recognized by athletics, but then we also enjoy the flexibility and the ability to make our own rules,” sophomore Showgirl Kara Hardin said. They do not follow many of the same rules of other athletes.
LILLIE MORISAKI Sports Editor
“Having a team of hard working girls is what inspires me to keep pushing us and do what I can to fight for the Showgirls to get more respect and fair treatment from the University.”
McDonald said the University does not fund the team. Though they received money from the Funds Allotment Council, they are still struggling to uniform the whole team, McDonald said. The team does not get the same opportunities as other athletic programs. McDonald said they do not receive scholarships for being a part of Showgirls, and most of them have to work scholarship jobs on top of their daily practices and workouts, McDonald said. “It can be hard to not get much credit even though most of the team has been dancing for 15 plus years, and dance is really hard on your body on top of the conditioning and stretching that we do outside of practice — we’re also learning multiple minutes of new choreography sometimes weekly during basketball season,” McDonald said. McDonald said she hopes the team will get to participate in competitions within the next few years. The team had chosen to skip out on them previously because of how time consuming they can be, McDonald said. “It’s no question that this team loves to dance and perform, and it’s definitely a passion project for all of us,” McDonald said. “As a captain, I’m really proud of having girls who are willing to add extra practices during the week and show up at 5:30 in the morning ready to work.”
“Having a team of hard working girls is what inspires me to keep pushing us and do what I can to fight for the Showgirls to get more respect and fair treatment from the University,” McDonald said.
“Probably since freshman year, I knew that being captain was something that I was interested in,” McDonald said. “It’s a good opportunity for leadership, and I really care about the team and so it just kind of felt like a no-brainer to run for captain.” “I think sometimes it can be a little hard when it comes to making hard decisions like ‘you have to sit out this game because your foot is injured’ or things like that,” McDonald said. “It’s kind of difficult because we’re all friends, and so like making the hard calls on things can be hard, but if there’s something that we really need, of course, we go to Joyce.”
Each year during football season, 16 hours of work is put into a few minutes worth of dancing during halftime.