The Index Vol. 110 Issue 19

Truman student talks marimba, percussion

Benefit concert raises money for homeless shelter, page 5 Gender by the numbers, page 7 Track and field bring home success, page 14

page 8

Truman State University tmn.truman.edu THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

tmn.truman.edu

@TrumanMediaNet

GREEK WEEK BREAKS RECORD

TrumanMediaNetwork

StuGov gears up for elections RYAN PIVONEY Managing Editor

Sheila Swafford, Pantry for Adair County operations manager, holds the check given to her by the Greek Week Committee. Swafford said an additional $120 was given to the pantry after she was awarded the check, bringing the grand total to $26,820. Photo by Ryan Pivoney

Greek Week breaks fundraising record, raises $26,820 RYAN PIVONEY Managing Editor Greek Week 2019 broke yet another fundraising record, raising $26,820 for Pantry for Adair County.

Last year, Greek Week raised $24,500 for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which broke the record at the time. With fewer students involved in Greek Life at Truman State University this year, the group still managed to raise a record amount in donations and collected over 2,400 pounds of food.

Delta Zeta raised the most per person and overall, bringing in $6,000.

Greek Life team lead Audrey Tomlinson said the fact that the fundraiser was for a local cause might be part of the reason why the organization was able

to raise so much money. She served as one of the Greek Week directors.

“Something about this year seemed like people had an extra push,” Tomlinson said. “I think part of it was the local organization that it went to Pantry for Adair County. That really motivates people to see it impact the people around them.”

She said there was a lot of positive energy throughout the week of events and fundraising, which also served to motivate the Greek community.

Greek Week members participated in Big Pink Volleyball to support breast cancer awareness, a scavenger hunt, an obstacle course, a series of smaller events and a closing ceremony.

Greek Week philanthropy chairs suggested Pantry for Adair County, but it was selected through the larger committee.

She said the group unanimously agreed

Jenna Fischer returns to Truman RYAN PIVONEY Managing Editor

After nearly 20 years, Emmy-nominated actress Jenna Fischer returned to her alma mater to speak in this year’s Holman Family Distinguished Speaker Series.

Fischer graduated from Northeast Missouri State University in 1995, the year before it was renamed Truman State University. Originally enrolling as a pre-law history major, Fischer changed directions her junior year and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in theater and a minor in journalism.

As part of her return, Fischer created a scholarship in the name of theater professor Ron Rybkowski, who is retiring after 31 years. Rybkowski was one of Fischer’s professors, but he ultimately served more as a mentor. He

VOLUME 110 ISSUE 19 © 2019

even paid $100 to get Fischer out of jail when she was arrested for not paying a traffic ticket.

“Ron was that teacher who teaches the whole student,” Fischer said. “So he doesn’t just teach you the class and information — he teaches you what you specifically need. So if you need to be challenged, he challenged you.

If you need a break, he gives a break.

He knows how to keep you interested and engaged as a student and helps you grow and mature as a person. So he was really special to me.”

She said when she heard he was retiring, she wanted to help set up a scholarship in his name to give more students the opportunity to study theater at Truman.

See FISCHER page 6

that they wanted this year’s focus to be on something local again because it would have a larger impact. Last year’s philanthropy brought Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to Adair County.

One of the reason’s Tomlinson said they stuck with the Pantry for Adair County was because it is a newer organization, and a large donation might be able to help it jumpstart its service.

“I just think that we have a lot of people that are really motivated to do something, like that’s what makes Truman Greek Life so special,” Tomlinson said.

“We are really dedicated people, and we’re not here just to be in a club. We’re here to make a difference.”

She said philanthropy is something that gives Greek Life purpose and something they can all get behind to support.

See GREEK WEEK page 5

Candidates running for a seat on Student Government have until tomorrow to turn in applications, but campaigning has already begun.

There are 12 voting senator positions, three senior senators, the vice president and president, and multiple Funds Allotment Council positions open on the ballot.

FAC is not a part of Student Government, but because they are both fee-based organizations, they are appearing on the same ballot.

Hannah Wissler, Student Government election administrator, said election filings are going well and there were about 12 candidate packets out as of Tuesday.

As of Tuesday, there was only one president/vice president ticket that had been filed.

“I would definitely say some of the success of last spring’s election was the fact that we had three presidential tickets on there, we had 13 senators campaigning for 12 spots, and no one wanted to be that one person [not elected],” Wissler said.

She said she is hoping for high voter turnout in this election, but the organization has a lower budget for advertising this year and found it harder to generate involvement without this semester’s activities fair.

“Our PR director has been doing an awesome job publicizing things on social media, and our posters are up and around, so we’re hoping that’s enough to get people to turn out,” Wissler said. “Then all of the candidates are campaigning, so that will help get the word out, too.”

She said there are enough eligible people to fill all the open positions, so that is the goal. If students are concerned about what is happening on campus, Wissler said it is important to vote and get involved with Student Government.

Voting will be done completely online, and polls open Monday, April 15 and close Thursday, April 18. The results will be announced on The Mall outside the Student Union Building the same day polls close.

Wissler said the past two elections conducted by Student Government were contested, which means involvement in the organization seems to be on the rise.

Additionally, there are a number of new associate members of Student Government this year, which means they were appointed, but some are running for election this time around.

Local unemployment down but steady JESSICA VENVERTLOH Staff Writer

The unemployment rate in Adair County has decreased slightly, but remains stable overall.

Carolyn Chrisman, executive director for Kirksville Regional Economic Development Inc., said that as of February 2019, the unemployment rate in Adair County was 3.9%, which is 421 residents. This is a decrease from February 2018, when the rate was 4.1%. The rate for the Northeast Missouri region sits at 4.1%, and the overall unemployment rate for the entire state is 3.2%.

“We look at our labor shed,” Chrisman said. “It’s not just people in Kirksville who work in Kirksville, but really a lot of the surrounding

counties like Schuyler County, a lot of those folks come to Kirksville for work. We really try to keep tabs not only on Adair County’s unemployment level but then those around us.”

She said unemployment tends to increase in the winter months because of less work for outdoor occupations like construction and landscaping, as well as over the summer when schools do not have as many people on staff.

The Kraft Heinz Company is the top employer in Kirksville, employing around 925 people. The company underwent an expansion in the past year, and Chrisman said this led to a decrease in the unemployment rate.

See UNEMPLOYMENT page 5

The Index

2

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

Old high school demolished

Top: The building, which previously housed Kirksville High School, is in the process of being demolished. The old high school was the meeting place for Kirksville Board of Education until 1978.

Left: City Council approved the property to be turned into a park. The park will be named after Richard L. Detweiler for his many years of dedicated service to the City of Kirksville.

Above: The demolition was set to officially start March 25, 2019, and it must be completed within 90 days. The city condemned the building in 2007. Photos by Daniel Degenhardt

staff Serving the University community since 1909 Editor-in-Chief: Brently Snead Managing Editor: Ryan Pivoney Opinions Editor: Elisabeth Shirk Features Editor: Elisabeth Shirk Copy Chief: Allyson Lotz Design Chief: Emmett Divendal Photo Editor: Daniel Degenhardt Distribution Manager: Tyler Hanson Cartoonists: Annie Kintree Designers: Georgia Gregory, Jake Bertish Photographers: Kara Mackenzie, Mary Van Winkle, Caleb Bolin, Rachel Stubbs Copy Editors: Elise Hughes, Cara Quinn, Jenna Faulkner, Jessica Robinson, Emma Gottfried, Katie Puryear, Julie Mickael Staff Writers: Travis Maiden, Gordon McPherson, Lexi Mueller, Aura Martin, Jessica Venvertloh, Allison Maschhoff, Isabelle Cenatiempo, Brea Schorn, Rachel Becker, Curt Wichmer, Chad Myers, Tad Bast, Liz Lovesee, Nicolas Telep, Chase Potter Adviser: Don Krause

Crime Reports DPS & KPD 4/2 Theft reported at the 4/5 Intoxicated person re700 block of West George St. ported at the 1900 block of North Osteopathy St. 4/3 Property damage reported at the 1300 block of 4/5 Purchase of alcohol South Cottage Grove Ave. while underage reported on Florence St. 4/3 Third degree assault reported at the 1200 block of 4/5 Abuse of elderly, disWest Hamilton St. abled or vulnerable person and fourth degree assault 4/3 Theft reported at the reported at the 700 block of 100 block of West Scott St. West Elizabeth St. 4/3 Cocaine possession, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of 10 grams or less of marijuana or a synthetic cannabinoid reported at the 300 block of South Baltimore St.

4/6 Theft reported at the 600 block of North Franklin St. 4/6 Purchase of alcohol while underage reported on Osteopathy St.

4/3 Intoxicated person re- 4/6 Vandalism reported at ported at the 1900 block of the 1600 block of Fairway North Osteopathy St. Dr. 4/4 Theft reported at the 4/8 Theft reported at the 500 2200 block of North Balti- block of North Baltimore St. more St. 4/8 Theft reported at the 30 4/4 Shots fired reported at block of Roselene Dr. the 500 block of West Porter St. 4/8 Fourth degree assault reported at the 500 block of 4/4 Theft reported at the East Harrison St. 400 block of South Marion St. 4/8 Endangerment of a child reported at the 600 block of 4/4 Third degree assault re- Woodwind Ct. ported and endangerment of a child reported at the 1200 4/9 Theft reported at the 10 block of Oxford Dr. block of Mohawk Ln. 4/5 Intoxicated person reported at the 10 block of Quail Dr.

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

news in brief

calendar

11 APRIL

ESCAPE ROOM MURDER MYSTERY 7 TO 10 P.M. BARNETT HALL Through April 13, Lambda Alpha Epsilon is hosting an escape room murder mystery. Attendees have to catch the killer and solve four crime scenes. Admission is $5 per person or $25 for teams of 6.

SPACE JAM CONCERT 7 P.M. TAKE ROOT CAFE Truman Media Network is hosting its Space Jam Concert tomorrow night, featuring acts from Overrated Oven, Pepe Silvia, Tista, Kass Deux Fois and DJ Seon. The concert is part of TMN’s fundraising week, which consists of multiple events from every outlet.

12 APRIL

12 APRIL

Alpha Gamma Rho, Missouri Department of Conservation and the National Wild Turkey Federation have partnered to host the second annual Adair County JAKES Day. JAKES stands for Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship. The event is focused on hunter safety and helping children to learn and strengthen their hunting and fishing skills.

AM Housing is hosting its first annual Poverty Luncheon. The event will feature speakers from local service agencies, a meal and a discussion on poverty in Adair County. Tickets are $5 for students and $7 for non-students, and can be purchased in the Sustainability Office in Violette Hall 1310.

APRIL

Business First recently released its rankings of the universities that offer the best educational experiences throughout the United States. Truman State University took the 64th spot nationally and the 14th spot in the Midwest. A total of 505 public schools with a full-time enrollment larger than 1,000 students were considered. Rankings were based in part on selective admissions processes, retention and graduation rates, earnings by alumni, resources, tuition and housing costs, diverse faculties and student bodies, and economically robust communities.

NURSING GETS $150,000 GRANT The Nursing Department received a Nursing Education Incentive Program grant for $150,000. The goal for the additional funding is to partner with A.T. Still University to establish simulated mental health scenarios and buy a new nursing manikin.

Truman’s nursing department has received this grant four times. The grant was established through legislative action by the Missouri Board of Nursing.

TRUCARE DROPS SLIGHTLY IN PARTICIPATION TruCare, the program to coordinate more community service among Truman State University Bulldogs, saw a small drop in participation this year.

This year’s participants contributed 10,266 service hours. Last year, the participants contributed 12,370 service hours. This is the third year of the month-long event in which the Truman community gives back to local communities. TruCare also includes the Big Event, which had 1,146 hours served by Truman students this year.

ADAIR COUNTY JAKES DAY 7:30 A.M. TO NOON BIG CREEK CONSERVATION AREA, RAINBOW BASIN TRAIL

POVERTY LUNCHEON 12:30 TO 2 P.M. BAPTIST STUDENT UNION

16

APRIL

TRUMAN RANKED 64TH BEST BY BUSINESS FIRST

Truman Stargazers is hosting an open house consisting of a constellation tour and more. The open house falls on the night of a half moon. If there is inclement weather, the event is rescheduled for the same time the following day.

UpChuckles is hosting its fourth annual Faculty Charity Comedy Show to raise money for the Central and Northeast Missouri Food Bank Buddy Pack program.

University President Sue Thomas, UpChuckles President Katie Davis and David Garth, last year’s winner, will judge as Don Bindner, Dereck Daschke, Chad Mohler, Chris Outzen, Dylan Phillips, Jocelyn Prendergast and Jared Young compete to be crowned winner. Admission is $5.

APRIL

12

OBSERVATORY OPEN HOUSE 7:30 TO 9:30 P.M. UNIVERSITY FARM

FACULTY CHARITY COMEDY SHOW 8 P.M. BALDWIN AUDITORIUM

13

3

14 APRIL

CREATING COMMUNITY ARTS FESTIVAL KIRKSVILLE ARTS ASSOCIATION Through April 30, art in a variety of media from artists all across Northeast Missouri will be on display starting April 17 in the Kirksville Arts Association.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three pieces in each age category, and other prizes will be awarded by the sponsoring community organizations.

BUSINESS COMPETITION SEES RECORD NUMBER OF ENTRIES Over 40 entries were submitted for this year’s Bulldog BITE elevator pitch competition. In the competition, the pitch outlines a concept for a product, service or project. The finals will take place at 4 p.m. April 12 in the Student Union Building Alumni Room. After the presentation, finalists will do a Q&A with the judges. The top-scoring pitch will receive a $3,000 prize, while second and third will receive $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY FEE ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE SEARCHES FOR NEW CHAIR Truman’s Environmental Sustainability Fee Accountability Committee are accepting applications for a new chair until April 26. The position is open to students. The committee was created after the student body voted in the Environmental Sustainability Fee in the spring of 2015 to improve sustainability on campus.

30

4

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

Don’t forget other alumni Jenna Fischer, arguably Truman State University’s most famous alumna thanks to her work as Pam in the “The Office,” returned to campus last Thursday and Friday. Her appearance in the Holman Family Distinguished Speaker Series sold out within 24 hours of its announcement, and the Public Relations Office then moved the event to Pershing Arena to nearly double the amount of available tickets. Director of Development Charles Hunsaker said Fischer is by far the most popular speaker the series has ever hosted.

We, The Index Editorial Board, are happy to see Truman students excited about something for once, especially someone who’s a part of Truman’s history. Students might make fun of our “Harvard of the Midwest” nickname, but Fischer is evidence of Truman producing graduates who go on to do great things.

That being said, we, The Index Editorial Board, think students should appreciate more alumni than just the one we see when bingewatching a Netflix series. Fischer’s accomplishments are impressive, but she is not the only alum to make a name for herself. Glenn Jacobs, better known by his wrestling ring name Kane, graduated from Northeast Missouri State University in 1991 and is now mayor of Knox County, Tennessee. Alphonso Jackson served as the United States Housing and Urban Development Secretary for most of President George W. Bush’s second term, and he graduated from NMSU in 1968. Hung Hsiu-chu earned her master’s degree in education from NMSU in 1991, and she later served as the vice president of China’s unicameral legislature from 20122016. These are just a few of Truman’s notable alumni.

Even if not every Truman alum is famous, there are still plenty who donate to Truman or otherwise support the University. Alumna Sandra K. Giachino Reavey’s estate donated $1 million to the University earlier this year after several years of dedicating her money and time to Truman and the Northeast Missouri region.

Alumnus Charles Holman donated nearly $2.9 million in 2008 to establish three endowment funds for Truman, one of which brought Fischer to campus. Numerous Truman State University Foundation scholarships are established by alumni, whether by individuals, couples or entire graduated classes. Fischer can now join this class of alumni as well with her recent donation to the Theatre Department.

Recently, Truman tennis served as a good example of appreciating our alumni who might lack name recognition but still mean a lot to the Truman community. The tennis teams invited their alumni to campus March 30-31 for Alumni Weekend, featuring an alumni brunch and a chance for the alumni to play against the current tennis players. This was an opportunity to celebrate former and current members of Truman tennis, as well as a chance for alumni to give back to the tennis program of their collegiate years by donating to the men’s tennis endowment fund.

It was Truman alumni that raised $10,000 for the men’s tennis team. It was Truman alumni that brought the men’s tennis team closer to playing another season. The rest of campus could take a cue from men’s tennis and find even more ways to celebrate our alumni.

Truman’s Student Alumni Association tries to bring light to all these alumni on Tag Day. One day every fall, the SAA puts purple tags on hundreds of items on campus that would not be there without the support of donors, including our alumni. Next semester, we can all take this opportunity to appreciate more of Truman’s alumni, even if they don’t make the news.

Shop local, support your neighbors BRENTLY SNEAD Editor-in-Chief In my four years living in the Kirksville community, I have seen a lot of growth. The city has welcomed Hobby Lobby, Menards and, most recently, Gordmans since I’ve been here. While I can’t pretend like I wasn’t excited, a part of me feels a little disappointed to know that people tend to sway toward the big box stores.

The truth is everyone gets excited when large stores arrive in a small town, but I think we allow such things to overshadow the small, local businesses we already have.

In addition to seeing these new builds, I have also witnessed the heartbreaks that come when businesses must close their doors.

It’s not only the cursed building on the corner of Normal and Baltimore, but it also includes the small businesses around The Square. Many have come and gone, and while I know it’s not the big box stores to blame, I can’t help but wonder if we have in some way let these families down.

I’m not going to sit here and diss the big stores because I think they’re valuable to many of us. Truthfully, I’m a regular at Hy-Vee and my husband works at The Home Depot, but I also know there’s value in the local shops and restaurants scattered across Kirksville.

For example, there’s nothing quite like finding the one-of-a-kind trinket in the thrift

store or antique shop, and that’s something you can’t necessarily say when going to one of these larger stores.

Additionally, it’s a pretty neat feeling when you realize the money you’re using is going to a family that is invested in this community.

It’s not just the antique shops, though. I strongly encourage anyone in the community to take a stroll through The Square and see what new places you can find. Starting in May, there’s a Kirksville Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning until noon, and it’s a great opportunity to invest yourself in others and the local businesses. Throughout the summer you can see crafters, farmers and even top-notch bakers sharing a piece of themselves.

I know it’s hard when there’s a level of convenience to the grander stores that seem to have everything or the fast food restaurant that speedily serves you, but don’t discount the worth of slowing down from time to time.

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 EDITORIAL POLICY: forum, and content of The Index is the responsibility of The Index staff e editor-in-chief consults the staffKirksville, and adviserMO but 63501. ultimately is The Index is published Thursdays during the academic year by. Th students at Truman Statewith University, responsible for all decisions.

The production offices are located in Barnett Hall 1200. We can be reached by phone at 660-785-4449. The Index is a designatedofpublic forum, and content The Indexrepresentative is the responsibility of TheofIndex staff.

Thenewspaper. editor-in-chief consults withrepresent the Opinions The Index columnists are notofnecessarily of the opinions the staff or the Our View editorials staff and adviser but ultimately is responsible for all decisions. the view of the Editorial Board through a two-thirds majority vote. The Editorial Board consists of the editor-in-chief, managing editor, section Opinions of The Index columnists are not necessarily representative of the opinions of the staff or the newspaper. Our View editors, copy represent chief and assistant copy chief.

The Index reserves the right to edit submitted material of space limitations, repetitive editorials the view of the Editorial Board through a two-thirds majority vote. because The Editorial Board consists of the subject matter, libelous content or any other theeditors, editor-in-chief deems appropriate. includes advertisements and letters editor-in-chief, managing editor,reason section copy chief and assistant Submitted copy chief.material The Index reserves the right to edit sub-to the editor. mitted 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.

LETTER POLICY: The Index welcomes letters to the editor from the University and Kirksville community. Letters to the editor are due by noon LETTER POLICY: theThe Sunday before publication andtobecome property ThUniversity e Index upon submission. submitted, the letter is subject editing fornoon grammar Index welcomes letters the editor fromofthe and KirksvilleOnce community.

Letters to the editorto are due by and spelling errors. the Sunday before publication and become property of The Index upon submission. Once submitted, the letter is subject to Submissions containpunctuation a well-developed anderrors. cannot exceed 500 words except at the discretion of the opinions editor and/or ediediting formust grammar, and theme spelling Submissions must contain a well-developed theme and cannot exceed 500attacks, words,libelous except attacks at the discretion of information the opinions tor-in-chief.

Submission does not guarantee publication.

Letters containing personal or inaccurate will not editor and/or editor-in-chief.

The Index suggests that submissions be written about current events or public issues that need 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. to be brought forth, and should offer a valid argument. Submission does not guarantee publication, especially when submiswill notor beinaccurate taken in consideration.

Include to the editor” the subject line of the email.containing Letters which are not submitted digitallyattacks sions the failwords to add“letter something to theincurrent discussion.

Letters personal attacks, libelous information will not be published. All letters to the editor must be typed and submitted by email to index.opinionseditor@gmail.

ADVERTISING POLICY: up-to-date information onsubject currentline advertising rates orLetters to inquire about thenot availability of classifi ed ads, com. Include the words For “letter to the editor” in the of the email. which are submitted digitally willcontact not be taken intoNetwork’ consideration.

Truman Media s Advertising Manager, Joey Iaguessa, at 636-785-6004 or jai6847@truman.edu.

ADVERTISING POLICY: For up-to-date information on current advertising rates or to inquire about the availability of classified ads, contact Truman Media Network’s Sales Manager, Joey Iaguessa, at 660.785.6004 or tmnadsales@truman.edu.

Contact Contact

Submit corrections or contact the editor.

index.editor@gmail.com

660-785-4449

tmn.truman.edu

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

5

Benefit concert raises money for homeless shelter ELISABETH SHIRK Features Editor

A benefit concert at Take Root Cafe brought over 110 people together and raised nearly $800 for AM Housing to support its mission of helping the homeless and home insecure in Adair County.

“AM Housing is a local non-profit organization that was started by former mayor Glen Moritz in the summer of 2017 with one goal in mind: to provide shelter for all of those who are in need in Northeast Missouri,” said Jimmy Clemens, AM Housing fundraising chair.

Currently, the board is working to build or purchase a homeless shelter in Kirksville. Clemens said the board hopes to accomplish this by the end of this semester.

Clemens said his involvement with AM Housing began after he organized a potluck to get to know more vegan and vegetarian people on campus.

“Sally West, a vegetarian professor, she came to the potluck and she brought her husband, [board President] Glen Moritz,” Clemens said.

“He started to talk about the issue of homelessness and home insecurity, which I had no idea about, in Northeast Missouri, and that drew me in from there.”

After that, Clemens began attending AM Housing board meetings to learn more. He and Moritz began talking and eventually — after someone had stepped down from the board — Clemens became an official member.

Clemens explained that the “AM”

in AM Housing stands for Andrew Moritz, Glen Moritz’s late son, who died of a rare form of cancer.

“He inspired family, friends and work colleagues by words and actions of love and encouragement,” Clemens said.

“It is only appropriate that Kirksville’s transitional housing be name[d] in honor of someone who lived such a selfless life of giving to others.”

Clemens said he was not heavily involved in planning the benefit concert, but he did his part Strange Accents performs at a benefit concert for AM Housing Saturday, April 6. The concert was by helping with performed at Take Root Cafe and raised nearly $800 for AM Housing’s mission of addressing home advertising and insecurity in Adair County. Photo by Rachel Becker information the band received about the concert to send a rocket to Mars greeting concerthomelessness in Kirksville came from and back again. He said Take Root goers as they walked into the venue.

Cafe waived its usual fee for the use The concert featured rock band Glen Moritz.

“Moritz has done such a brilliant of its facilities, so the band donated Strange Accents. Guitarist Lucky Lind said when the band heard about job keeping people informed,” guitar- that sum — $100 — to AM Housing.

“Such a nice town, so many homethe homelessness in Kirksville, it ist and vocalist Eldon Bargate said.

Bargate expressed that the band less, it’s terrible,” Lind said. contacted AM Housing in hopes of helping in some way. Much of the planned to have enough energy at

Truman hosts more than 1,500 children for literature festival

Top: More than 1,500 children attended the Children’s Literature Festival April 5. The fourth, fifth and sixth graders attended informational sessions throughout the Student Union Building.

Right: Don Tate, a children’s illustrator and author, was one of the visiting authors for the festival. Tate was one of the 11 authors leading sessions throughout the day. Photos by Mary Van Winkle

UNEMPLOYMENT| Kirksville’s unemployment rates are down slightly, but remain relatively steady Continued from page 1 “They have increased their employment in the community by 400-500 jobs, increased their wages and heavily invested in this community,” Chrisman said. “This can be contributed to Kirksville as a great place to do business and to a workforce who can meet employer demands.”

Kirksville assistant city manager Ashley Young said a lot of jobs have been added to the community and continue to be added. He said job opportunities from the upcoming census in 2020 will also lead to a decrease in the rate. He said the trends are headed in the right direction overall, and economic development has been an important focus for the city.

“More jobs means more people spending money here locally in Kirksville, supporting small business and supporting our businesses in general,” Young said. “Supporting our local economy means more revenue for the city, and more revenue for the city means we can better serve our citizens.”

Truman State University is the second largest employer in Kirksville. Sally Herleth, executive director of human resources, said Truman has around 750 full-time employees, which includes around 300 faculty and 450 staff members. Over the past few years, she said there has been a decrease in employment numbers because of issues with the University budget.

GREEK WEEK| Greek Life sets new fundraising record for Pantry for Adair County Greek Week set a fundraising record for the second year in a row in 2019.

FUNDRAISING ACHIEVEMENTS 2018

$24,500 for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

2019 $26,820 for Pantry for Adair County

Continued from page 1 Sheila Swafford, Pantry for Adair County operations manager, was presented with the check last Friday in front of the Greek community.

“It was awesome,” Swafford said.

“It was really exciting. We were overwhelmed by the magnitude of the gifts, both in food products and cash.”

With the money, Swafford said she plans on paying off the debt acquired from establishing the pantry’s permanent building and buying a walkin freezer and cooler.

Throughout the process, Swafford said she was visiting with members of the Greek Week committee to work out logistics. She told them as long as they brought the food, she would find a way to store it. Last Thursday, volunteers from the pantry used their trucks to haul the food to the food pantry after members of Greek Life collected and organized them into crates.

Swafford said the donation was

the biggest local donation the pantry has received since opening its location last July.

The Pantry for Adair County serves over 300 households every month.

With Adair County being one of the most food insecure counties in the state, it is its mission to help alleviate this issue as much as it can.

Swafford said the operation is a well-oiled machine with everyone having a job and helping out.

“Kind of our slogan is, ‘Here is the best-kept secret in town,’” Swafford said. “A lot of people don’t even know we’re here. We’ve been in this building since July, and we did what’s called a mobile pantry three years before that.”

The Pantry for Adair County operates three days a week: Tuesdays 4-6 p.m., Wednesdays 1-3 p.m. and Fridays 1-3 p.m.

6

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

FISCHER| Jenna Fischer returns, recounts her Truman years

Top: Jenna Fischer came to Truman State Univeristy April 5. Her presentation was moved from Baldwin Auditorium to Pershing Arena.

Middle: Fischer talked about how Kirksville and Truman have changed since she graduated in 1995. Around 2,500 tickets were given out for the presentation.

Bottom: When the event was announced at Baldwin Hall tickets sold out within 24 hours. Pershing Arena was also sold out after the event was moved. Photos by Mary Van Winkle

Continued from page 1 “Hopefully with that, they’ll be blessed with the same bit of magic that I was able to be blessed with having him as my actual teacher,” Fischer said.

Rybkowski started working at Truman as the Theatre Department was first being developed. Since then, he said he has seen a lot of changes in his department and the school in general.

Rybkowski said he was absolutely floored and honored to have the scholarship dedicated in his name.

The scholarship is the first one to be geared toward students looking to go into the technician side of the theater department, which Rybkowski focuses on at Truman.

“We have plenty of scholarships for acting and for academic purposes, so this will be the first one dedicated just to technicians, which I think is huge,” Rybkowski said. “I think that’s saying to all of our students that we truly are liberal arts and science and we truly believe in all aspects of theater and not just the acting part. So having a scholarship in my name dedicated to that, I think that’s huge. The legacy thing is pretty cool also.”

Fischer said the theater program at Truman is special to her because of its liberal arts philosophy, which required her to learn about lighting, stage managing, making props and more, in addition to learning acting techniques.

“I really gained an appreciation for how collaborative the artistic process is,” Fischer said. “And then when I went out into the world, I had all of those skills and I was able — I just had a language for how to put together a production that I feel like some students who only studied acting technique didn’t have that.”

He said there are a number of successful Truman graduates from Truman’s theater department, but he recognized a passion and drive in Fischer that indicated to him she would be a star if given the chance.

The two remained somewhat in contact through email over the course of her rise to stardom.

“I remember when she was first on ‘The Office,’ and I think it was during the second season maybe and she sent out a desperate email saying, ‘Tell everybody to watch the show, because it’s really good, it’s very funny, but we think we might get cut unless the numbers go up’ — and to be honest with you, I wasn’t watching the show at the time — but then … it took off,” Rybkowski said.

As a student, Fischer performed in student-driven lab shows of “School of Rock,” “Cabaret” and “Godspell.” She said she was only in two main stage

productions, which included a supporting role in “Noises Off” and a lead role in “Crimes of the Heart.”

Additionally, Fischer said she would work on short films and television shows with classmates on weekends because the University did not have a film and television department on campus.

One such show was a satire based on the Kirksville Police Department called “KPD Blues,” which they made two episodes of. She explained how they learned how to film and edit, which she said is exactly what you do when you want to become an actor in Hollywood.

During her time on campus, Fischer spent a lot of time working in the theater department, which included joining a theater fraternity on campus despite staying away from the Greek scene. Fischer said she also did some work within the communication department and avoided sporting events.

Fischer said she never left the theater buildings on campus because they were her home. She actually lived in Centennial Hall her freshman year, but during her sophomore year she said she moved to a small apartment across Normal Street and went to class in Ophelia Parrish, Baldwin and McClain halls. Other parts of campus just weren’t of interest.

“Barnett Hall? Why is it so far away?”

Fischer asked. “Can you move that building closer? I got a D in that class because I didn’t want to walk there.”

In her free time, Fischer said she would go to the newly built Walmart to walk around — which is still a popular pastime today — and often ate at places like Diner 54 and Pancake City because she couldn’t afford the Wooden Nickel on a college budget.

Fischer said if she were to do her time at Truman all over again, she would have taken some business classes because having that kind of background is beneficial in the industry.

Fischer said there have been some changes since she last visited Kirksville in 2000 — Pancake City is no longer 24 hours — but the spirit of this small town is still the same.

“Little things have changed about Kirksville, but the general vibe is still the same,” Fischer said. “And it was the vibe that made me want to come here to school anyways, so I was so happy to discover that that was still alive and well.”

She said it was weird and confusing to return to campus and walk into buildings with an expectation of how they will look only to be completely wrong. Other areas, she said, haven’t changed a bit.

life

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

7

GENDER

BY THE NUMBERS About 60 percent of Truman State University students are women. Different majors, however, have different male to female ratios and gendered experiences. These are some Truman women’s stories.

ALLYSON LOTZ Copy Chief

“There’s so many men” A few Fridays ago, I walked into Violette Hall 1236 and took my seat in CS 430: Database Systems, the last class of my computer science degree. The professor always needs a few minutes past the official start time to set up for the lecture, so after small-talking with my peers in the front row, I spun my chair around and looked idly at the six rows of students behind me.

Then I noticed something remarkable: there were 12 women in the class. Twelve! Doubledigit women in a computer science course! That meant almost 40% of the 31 students in that class were women. If all of them were computer science majors, that also meant over 25% of the 45 total females declared as computer science majors were in that class.

Women are fewer and further between in the computer science major than any other major at Truman State University.

The Index obtained data from Information Technology Services on how many males and females had declared themselves as each of Truman’s majors and found less than 20% of computer science majors are female.

The next closest undergraduate field of study, economics, is over 30% female.

This came as no surprise to Thu Vo, vice president of Association for Computing Machinery, the professional computer science organization on campus.

“For me, it’s like a basic thing,” Vo said. “Everyone knows it, everyone knows this, but then we just don’t talk about it much because we assume the truth and we don’t ask questions about it.”

The gender disparity in Truman’s computer science program runs deeper than its classes. Vo is one of two women she has noticed come to meetings for ACM. She serves on the ACM executive board alongside a male president, secretary and treasurer.

“There’s so many men in ACM,” Vo said.

“Honestly, I don’t know how to bring [women] to ACM because probably they’re more comfortable to go to TWiCS rather than ACM for some reason — I don’t know.”

TWiCS stands for Tru-Women in Computer Science, one of two major-specific women’s resource student organizations on campus. Vo serves as webmaster for TWiCS, and I serve alongside her as treasurer. Though men are invited to the meetings, only women have attended so far this semester — even then, about three women outside the executive board attend regularly.

Computer science might have one of the smallest percentages of women in its department at Truman, but that has no bearing on Vo’s selfimage in the major.

“I don’t feel small at all,” Vo said. “If at all, I have a higher grade than them.”

majors experience a whole different world. Over 95% of communication disorders majors are female, leaving seven total males to make up the remaining 5%.

Alex Ginsberg isn’t sure if she can name all seven guys, but she knows all their faces.

“We’ve had more males this semester than, like, probably the past two years than I’ve ever seen,” Ginsberg said. “When I started, it was only, like, two or three.”

Ginsberg is a senior communication disorders major and the Communication Disorders Association president. She has had her pulse on the communication disorders department since 2015 as she’s watched freshmen join and seniors graduate from the program.

Over the years, Ginsberg said the major has been mostly women, and the executive board for CoDA is all females. As more men join the organization, however, CoDA has had to ditch some of its pink and feminine branding on T-shirts and Powerpoints.

“Maybe they’re fine with, like, florals and stuff — who knows?”

Ginsberg said.

“But we want to at least make it seem like we aren’t all super-dominating females and don’t pay attention to them.”

G i n s b e r g d e s c r i b e d her class of communication disorders majors as smaller and tighter-knit than other classes in the department.

Even if she doesn’t know all the women in her class, she still noticed how they all had the same classes together and how they were all women.

When men started enrolling in their classes, however, Ginsberg said the class dynamic didn’t change.

“When we started actually having guys in the class for communication disorders, it just didn’t always register with us ’cause you’re so used to having all females, and all of a sudden there’s this one guy, and we’re like, ‘Oh, there’s a guy in here,’” Ginsberg said. “And then we forget and go about our classes.”

At the end of the day, Ginsberg said she expects the communication disorders field to maintain these gender ratios for the foreseeable future.

“If the proportions change and we start seeing more males in the field, I could potentially see stuff shift,” Ginsberg said. “But if the rates stay the same, I think it’ll keep being more, like, you’ll see a predominantly more female workforce and then occasionally see, like, a male speech therapist or female audiologist, and unless it really, really shifts, I don’t know if there’ll be a change.”

of students in her biology classes are women, to the point where her experiences in classes outside of biology sounded like Ginsberg’s outside of communication disorders.

“I distinctly remember looking around [my non-major class], and I’m like, ‘Wow, there’s a lot of guys here — that never happens,’” Klahs said.

“I think that why it stands out to me is because science is usually so [male-dominated].”

See GENDER page 10

Computer science Breakdown by Sex

“Everyone knows it, but then we just don’t talk about it much because we assume the truth and we don’t ask questions about it.”

-Thu Vo, ACM Vice President

“Oh, there’s a guy in here” About a block away from Violette, in the Health Sciences Building, communication disorders

VOLUME 110

ISSUE 19

: *Approximation based on raw data

Communication disorders

“Guys and girls and whatever” The communication disorders and computer science majors are anomalies in the grand scheme of male-to-female student ratios at Truman. Just over 60% of all Truman students are female.

Similarly, about 61% of Truman biology majors are female.

Lilly Klahs grew up with five brothers, so she said she is used to being around mostly guys, but that is not what her classes are like. Klahs is a senior biology major, and she said the majority

tmn.truman.edu

www.facebook.com/TrumanMediaNetwork

Breakdown by Sex

: *Approximation based on raw data

biology

Breakdown by Sex

: *Approximation based on raw data

@TrumanMediaNet

© 2019

8

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

BOLD lifestyles

Truman student talks marimba, percussion AURA MARTIN Staff Writer The marimba — which looks like a piano but instead consists of a set of wooden bars struck with mallets to produce music — is quite the misunderstood instrument and often confused with a xylophone.

This confusion is one of the reasons why Truman State University graduate percussion student Hannah Gallamore has established percussion duo CHannel2.

Recently CHannel2 performed at the TEDxUMKC conference in the National World War I Museum. Both of them played contemporary pieces on their marimbas.

“We played in front of an audience who had no musical background, so they had no idea what these instruments were,” Gallamore said. “That was cool because we were able to talk about what these instruments were and what percussion is like now.”

In addition to her work with CHannel2, Gallamore also won competitions, and performed concertos and solos. She continues to play percussion in ensembles and teach high school and college students, as well as commission composers and premiere marimba pieces.

It comes as no surprise to Michael Bump, her percussion professor, that Gallamore is able to balance all the activities she does as a percussionist and student. He said she has developed her craft and skills as a musician one hour at a time, and one minute at a time.

He said she knows how to look for opportunities and take advantage of them, whether it be attending music festivals or playing in master classes. It is something she has done ever since she first arrived at Truman as a freshman.

“She’s always looking for new and challenging works for percussion, and having people write new works for her,” Bump said. “She’s making things happen.”

CHannel2 first formed in Gallamore’s junior year in 2017. She performed with Conner Viets, who was also a Truman student at time. She said their mission is to reach as wide of an audience as possible because many people don’t know much about marimba. CHannel2 recently posted a video where they played a piece called “Paper Covers Rock” by Adam Silverman. The piece featured desk bells that the performers hit with their hands. They also used a carousel, which consisted of eight spinning bells that they hit with a mallet.

CHannel2 has also played in high schools in the St. Louis and Kansas City areas to perform percussion.

Gallamore said high school is a great place to start for kids who are interested in music but still don’t realize

Truman State University graduate percussion student Hannah Gallamore plays alongside her CHannel2 partner Conner Viets. In addition to being part of the percussion duo, Gallamore does solo performances, teaches high school and college students, and commissions composers. Submitted photos what’s out there, and what they can do with percussion.

“We want to show them the different types of percussion, and we hope to motivate them to continue if that’s what they want,” Gallamore said.

“Hard work can bring you somewhere, and that’s really important.”

Adam McCann, a graduate percussion student at Truman, has seen CHannel2 recitals and has known Gallamore since they both started as freshmen at Truman.

“She and the duo will go places,” McCann said. “I know it sounds kind of cliché, but she has the vision and knows where she wants to be — she has the drive and dedication to get there.”

Gallamore said the marimba is her primary instrument, though she continues to work at becoming a wellrounded percussionist. She said in the graduate stage of percussion studies, it is important to be able to play all percussion instruments at a certain skill level, especially if there is an interest in teaching. She also mainly performs contemporary works, meaning that she plays music that was composed in 2000 and beyond.

“Percussion is such a new field that’s just continuing to grow, which is really cool, especially since the composers are alive,” Gallamore said. “I can go speak to them and take a lesson with them now and learn more about their pieces.”

For instance, at the North Star Music Festival at Truman, Gallamore

performed as a soloist in the world lege teaching because she is not afraid premiere of Adam Silverman’s piece, to push, ask questions and find the an“pittering/pattering.” She said Silver- swers. He said she is an exceptional man specifically wrote that piece for student because she clawed her way up the Truman Percussion Ensemble, and through self-discipline and developed it was a great experience because he a strong work ethic. That is how she looked at Truman players and wrote gained the success she has, Bump said. music to match their skill set. She and It is the kind of thing that puts a smile the group were the first ones to play on his face. it, and they were able to publish the “With Hannah, the sky’s the limit,” first audio and video components.

Bump said.

Gallamore said she loves what is being written for percussion now, but more techniques are being developed. She said she wants to get more marimba literature out there and is commissioning composers to write pieces that feature the marimba.

Gallamore is also currently working on a project that features a marimba solo with electronics.

Bump said Gallamore is similar Gallamore plays the marimba, which is often confused to other students with a xylophone. Gallamore said the marimba is her he’s had in his primary instrument, but she works to be a well-rounded 35 years of col- percussionist.

“Cold War” is an artful love story This movie got 4/5 Hammer and Sickles GORDON MCPHERSON Staff Writer Spring is finally here. Hallelujah.

There hasn’t been a better time to watch “Cold War,” a grim Polish love story that captivates and frustrates in equal measure.

Set in post-World War II Poland, the film follows an impossible romance between Wiktor and Zula, played by Tomasz Kot and Joanna Kulig, respectively. Wiktor is an emotionally reserved conductor of a state-sponsored music group, and Zula is a passionate woman with a troubled past who joins his ensemble. Wiktor and Zula soon become infatuated with each other, but alas, totalitarian regimes don’t exactly facilitate happy endings. Wiktor’s ensemble, initially dedicated to honoring Poland’s history through folk songs (often about love), is forced to perform pro-communist and Stalinist propaganda, sacrificing the group’s artistic ambitions to outside influence. As Zula continues to perform, Wiktor feels increasingly conflicted, especially when made aware of dubious intentions by another band organizer, Kaczmarek,

played by Borys Szyc. Eventually, Wiktor and Zula plan to flee to the West after a performance in Berlin, but Zula doesn’t show up to the rendezvous, leaving Wiktor to make the crossing by himself.

What follows is a sliced-and-diced series of snapshots spanning the 1950s and early ’60s, in which Wiktor and Zula try to rekindle their doomed relationship as both of their lives continue separately in a politically tumultuous world.

Directed by Pawel Pawlikowski, who loosely based the story on his own parents’ complex relationship, “Cold War” obviously won’t appeal to casual viewers looking for another “Shazam!” or “Avengers 200.”

The film feels designed for art house cinemas, appealing to connoisseurs who like their films nuanced, deliberate and atmospheric.

There’s an intoxicating feel to “Cold War” that proves hypnotizing and heartbreaking. Pawlikowski doesn’t pander to viewers looking for traditional love story beats, instead conveying the characters’ emotions through music, cinematography and feelings left unspoken. The film’s episodic nature, presenting individual scenes separated by years, also leaves crucial

information unexplained, often leaving viewers to deduce each scene’s context for themselves.

It’s admirable how much “Cold War” trusts viewers’ intelligence, but this unpredictable structure doesn’t provide the emotional heft Pawlikowski intended, at least upon first viewing, as viewers aren’t given enough time to get their bearings. The film’s runtime, just shy of 90 minutes, almost seems too brief for such a layered plot. The fascinating themes of political intervention, ambition, nostalgic longing and time’s uncompromising nature would have been better served by a less experimental storytelling approach. There’s so much to take in at once — visually, aurally and thematically — that a single viewing doesn’t do “Cold War” justice.

Where the plot itself falls slightly short, however, other aspects excel.

Kulig gives an incredible performance as Zula, perfectly capturing the character’s full-throttle personality — beautifully illustrated in a wild dance sequence late in the film. Kot also lends Wiktor a mournful, subdued edge that complements his character’s conflicted history.

There’s never a moment where their characters’ bond feels inauthentic.

Music, varying in genre, also becomes a character itself. Indeed, the film also becomes a musical in certain sections, creating an atmosphere that reflects the melancholic tone.

The film’s black-and-white photography is also astoundingly beautiful and textured, enhanced by the condensed 4:3 aspect ratio. Pawlikowski utilizes this claustrophobic ratio to focus viewers’ attention and illustrate Wiktor and Zula’s fateful intimacy.

There’s so much to admire about “Cold War” that the questionable storytelling format ultimately doesn’t detract much from the film’s impact. The film is worth seeing for the acting and cinematography alone, even if the characters themselves aren’t given enough depth to truly shine. As a college student without much romantic experience, perhaps others would become more emotionally involved in the proceedings. If you’re a romantic, make up your own mind.

“Cold War,” while perhaps not well-suited for stressed college students, nonetheless depicts a meaningful, wonderfully filmed love story that’s a slap in the face to cliché-ridden chick flicks. And that’s always a blessing, without question.

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

The Curosfe

s l e a r h a Bri Mic

by llison A hoff Masch

It is time for a new adventure. Another story in another world that looks very much like ours, and perhaps is. Now, throughout time there have been people who have known Death, in one way or another. I speak of the person of Death, not the natural phenomenon. One generation of these cursed, or perhaps gifted, people had a unique experience in that they all found each other, and they saw how their abilities could interact. Theirs is a story of fear and love and heartbreak and learning. Theirs is a story of Death. And, of course, it is also a story of death. To catch up on The Curse of Briar Michaels, check out tmn.truman.edu.

Part VI: After exactly one minute of silence (Aislinn was counting the seconds to distract herself) Briar began to speak. His voice started out loud, louder than necessary in the quiet room.

It gradually quieted as he shared the story. Aislinn kept her face blank as he explained that about a year and a half prior, he had met a woman named Mallory. He called her the light of his life. He said they were going to get married.

He told her, “Mallory got sick about six months ago. She’s been hospitalized for two months now. The doctors say that it’d be a miracle if she lived another two weeks, but if she does survive this next bit, she’ll most likely recover. She just needs Death to stay away for two weeks.”

Aislinn was not sure if he’d said death or Death. Not that it really mattered.

Briar continued, “So I was thinking that maybe we could keep it away. Maybe we could give her the two weeks. If you can let me know when Death is approaching, I can get in front of Mallory. Maybe I could protect her and push it away.”

First, Aislinn realized he had been speaking of Death. Capitalized. Then she came to the conclusion that Dushan and Asuka had been right; she should never have come back for Briar.

She was shaking. She had not known what to expect, but she had never thought that Briar would ask her for this, for the very thing she had left to avoid. Yet here he was, asking her not only to show him Death, but to do so in order to save the woman he’d replaced her with.

“Aislinn,” Briar began, but then he stopped. He could see her shaking and there was a part of him that ached to comfort her as if it were three years prior. As if there were no Mallory lying in a hospital bed. Just a redheaded girl with porcelain skin dotted with freckles and a smile that he had loved more than anything in the world. For the first time in a month, perhaps even in three years, Briar remembered that Aislinn’s horror was not all on his behalf; she didn’t hate her curse simply because it might hurt him. She also had to see something so dreadful she dared not explain it in too great of detail. In that moment, his hands began to shake as well, but it wasn’t out of guilt. He was terrified that she was going to tell him no.

But the truth of the matter was that Aislinn had a weakness for Briar Michaels. And if he needed her, she would do anything to help him.

She supposed that was what love was.

“Okay,” she said softly. Weakly. “I will do my best. But I can’t make any promises. Death has no reason to take note of me.”

Briar’s body relaxed, but with the distraction of his fear of rejection now gone, the guilt was beginning to claw at him and he could not look Aislinn in the eye when he said, “Thank you.”

When it was clear she wasn’t going to respond, he stood up and left. As soon as the door shut behind him, his knees buckled and tears began to run down his cheeks. He stayed in the hallway for a while, weighed down by relief and guilt and terror and helplessness.

As soon as the door shut behind him, Aislinn fell onto her side on the couch and cried.

The next morning, Aislinn, Asuka and Dushan walked through the front doors of St. Mark’s Hospital and found Briar waiting in the lobby. He led them up three flights of stairs and then through a maze of hallways until they came to room 4750. Briar walked in without bothering to knock.

“Hey, Mal! How you feeling?” He kneeled next to the bed and kissed the patient’s hand.

Mallory was thin, with bronze skin and thoughtful, tired eyes. Her head was covered in cornrows of black hair with caramel highlights. She looked at the three strangers, her eyes landing on Aislinn, completely unaware of who she was. “Hello,” she said pleasantly. “Are you friends with Briar?”

Dushan cleared his throat.

Asuka looked down.

Aislinn bit her lower lip. She wanted to break Mallory’s eye contact, but her head could not move. She felt caught by a seemingly friendly predator, like the snake from “The Jungle Book.”

Mallory’s honey-colored eyes stared at her until Briar said, “From a long time ago, yes.”

Mallory looked at him and smiled before looking back at the three people in front of her.

Her gaze was not so specifically placed this time. Aislinn released a shaky breath.

Just as Mallory did not press her gaze on Aislinn any further, she did not press for more information. She did not ask why these three people were standing in front of her, each of them noticeably uncomfortable. She did not ask what a long time meant. And Mallory deliberately did not ask why Briar wouldn’t look the redheaded girl in the eyes.

Aislinn read this as trust. She read this as love.

They all introduced themselves and the group stumbled into an uneasy conversation.

Mallory asked questions about each of them; she smiled at anything anybody said. She was the cheeriest dying person any of them had ever met. Meanwhile, Dushan and Asuka answered her questions politely and hugged the wall across from Mallory’s hospital bed. It was impossible for them to not feel like they were intruding. They didn’t know Briar anymore; they had no reason to sit there and entertain his dying fiancée.

Aislinn did not feel as though she knew Briar anymore either, but she did not feel like an intruder. Aislinn watched Briar hold onto Mallory and felt betrayed. She watched Mallory smile at Briar with trusting, caring eyes and she felt replaced. She felt as though she was watching a life that had been stolen from her.

She had expected to find Mallory sad and close to death. But this girl was filled with joy and life. Maybe she wasn’t really dying. Maybe this was all some cruel trick. Maybe this was Briar’s revenge on her for leaving him.

Eventually, Aislinn excused herself. She went out into the hall and slid down the wall until she was sitting on the cold tile floor. She placed her head in her hands and told herself to breathe, told herself she wasn’t allowed to cry in the hospital. After a few moments, she steadied herself, looked up at the people walking past her and began to watch. She began waiting for Death.

9

Making the most of study abroad TRAVIS MAIDEN Staff Writer The Truman State University Career Center and Study Abroad office partnered up to teach students how to market their study abroad experiences to future employers.

The workshop began with career ready coach Kara Levery asking everyone about their experiences studying abroad or if they had an intent to try. After talking about their experiences, Levery asked students to write a reflection on what they learned while they were away.

Students were asked to write about who they could talk to in order to learn more about the study abroad experience, and how they could use it to its full potential through relations and connections with anyone in the professional world. Connections are some of the strongest media for applying for a position in any area. It’s also important to understand what a student wants out of their career. It helps the student become much more marketable for career paths in their future.

After writing, the group began to make 30-second commercials to communicate their experiences to have the greatest impact upon a listener using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action and Reaction. This section taught how to make a great first impression to an interviewer. Students learned the proper way to give a handshake and spoke to one another about who they were, what they majored in, their strengths, goals, accomplishments and how they can be a benefit to an organization.

The event wasn’t just a way to learn how to market study abroad experiences — it was a way to learn how to get through an interview. Giving a proper handshake and making appropriate eye contact are key to meeting an interviewer. It’s best to try and keep statements brief, concise and purposeful. This was an extremely important section for anyone who gets nervous about interviews.

Levery said she wanted to teach this workshop because she enjoyed her own study abroad experiences when she was a student.

“I graduated from Truman in 2009 and I studied abroad in 2007,” Levery said. “I did the Costa Rica summer study abroad trip with faculty members and with Truman peers, which was actually a big group that year.

I came back not only with having had that personal growth opportunity, built language acquisition and skills, but also with some really strong friendships. Not only with folks that I got to meet that still live in Costa Rica, but also with my classmates.”

The presentation was also given last November after the study abroad office reached out to the Career Center.

Levery said the Career Center is always available to help students with moving on to the next step into a career field and that this is just one area they wanted to utilize.

“This is the best time in your life to study abroad,” Levery said. “It’s very rare that you’re going to have another three or four months and just split to do really indepth activities like study abroad and have a transformational experience. Even if you have to go through a few storms, figuratively or literally, you’re always going to come back as a more developed person.”

The study abroad office is always open to help students with their choices as well. Student worker Matt Buchheit said the office advisers can walk anyone interested through the process of studying abroad with tips and guides. The office hangs up posters, puts on workshops and hosts the Study Abroad Fair for anyone interested.

He said studying abroad is a way to be totally immersed in a new culture, which provides new ways to think about problems and solutions.

Buchheit said the experience is something that isn’t for everyone, but that perspective on things bigger than Kirksville can’t be learned anywhere else. He said the best time to try studying abroad is sometime early in the college career to take classes that can transfer back to Truman.

“Studying abroad is an experience that can test you — just like any other experience in life, things that don’t kill you help you grow as a person,” Buchheit said.

With cooperation from the Career Center, the workshop is just one of the resources offered to anyone interested in using their experience for the professional world. Buchheit said the event is always a united effort and the Career Center is always great to work with.

The Index

10

Ouestions ?

on

Smruthi Chintakunta, senior

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

the

Maxwell Chappell, sophomore

Ouad ?

Madeline Smith, senior

Question 1: What writer has most greatly influenced you?

“J.K. Rowling. Harry Potter all the way. English is not my first language, so she was kind of the first author I kinda got introduced to. She helped expand my vocabulary and helped my life in that way, especially ‘cause she writes huge books.”

“My favorite books growing up were the [‘Inkheart’] chronicles, I think they’re called. Cornelia Funke influenced my life by writing books I like, but she’s also the reason I ended up taking German. The books are originally in German, and I wanted to read them in their native language.”

“I’ve recently been reading Temple Grandin — she’s pretty cool. She just has some unique thoughts about animal behavior and it’s been interesting.”

Question 2: What’s the best way to spend a three-day weekend?

“Sleep. That’s my only answer.

Come on, we’re college students, we miss sleep so much.”

“The first two days spent being lazy or with friends, and the last day, that’s when you do your homework. You get one more day of laziness.”

“Outside, doing just about anything you can do outside.

State parks are great, looking for reptiles is wonderful.”

Question 3: What is something from the past that you wish would come back?

“I’ve always wanted a Tamagotchi.

I never had one, though. It doesn’t have a practical use at all — it’s something you just try to keep alive.”

“Definitely cloaks. Proper just, yeah, cloaks. That whole era is just very aesthetic.”

“Old cars. They’re just really cool.”

GENDER| Male-to-female ratios in majors create different experiences for students Not all of Klahs’ biology classes have been female-dominated, however. Klahs said she felt like there were more men than usual in some of her pre-med classes like pathophysiology and anatomy. Any explanation for this is speculative — Klahs suggested there might be a higher male concentration in pre-med. Anatomy is also a required class for pre-physical therapy students. (The Index did not obtain data about pre-med or pre-PT students.)

Klahs is also the president of Beta Beta Beta, the biology fraternity. Klahs said there are many men and women on the BBB executive board, and in ways, the organization had been working up to this board for a while.

“I think the groundwork had already been done before I got here, which is awesome,” Klahs said.

“That’s why I felt so comfortable in joining the organization, because it didn’t seem like there was this weird hierarchy between guys and girls and whatever, and it’s pretty well-accepting of everyone.”

Klahs is interested in going to medical school, possibly to study surgery. While Truman’s biology department has more females than not, she said she does not necessarily expect that going forward, especially given the assumptions people have about her being pre-med.

“A lot of people ask me, ‘Oh, you’re going into family medicine or pediatrics?’” Klahs said. “And I’m like, ‘No! No I’m not!’”

“I’m trans and that affects things” There is a caveat to the data The Index obtained on Truman’s majors: it is sex-based. This leaves it unclear where transgender students like computer science major Sophia Johnson reside in the data.

“It’s kind of hard for me to exist without noticing that I’m trans and that affects things,” Johnson said. “I can’t go to the bathroom and not think about, like, ‘Oh, hey, is today the day I’m going to be assaulted?’”

Johnson said she experienced transphobia once she had transitioned, such as derogatory comments about her feminine expression. She also described being stared down in computer science classes when that wouldn’t happen in her other classes.

While Johnson said none of the computer science faculty have given her trouble about being transgender, she said she couldn’t tell that would be the case before transitioning.

“In my mind, I’m like, ‘Is this gonna cause issues with professors I have relationships with?’” Johnson said. “I definitely didn’t feel safe going into

transitioning in the CS department, but in reality, it’s been fine.”

Johnson is also a double-major in philosophy and religion, a department she said reacted very differently to her transition. In fact, it didn’t.

“I don’t think it was really noticed the fact that I transitioned,” Johnson said. “It was just kind of rolled with, like, ‘Okay, this is just a thing that exists now.’”

Regardless of whether Johnson’s professors and peers treat her with respect for her gender identity, she still worries about when that might change.

“It’s pretty much a constant thought,” Johnson said. “Am I going to get discriminated against because I’m a woman in CS? Am I going to get discriminated against ’cause I’m trans in CS? Is there any interplay between the two? It goes through my head every time that it’s relevant.”

30

Follow us on Instagram @Ktrm_fm

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

11

THIS WEEK IN SPORTS Friday, April 12 Men’s, Women’s Track and Field at Blue Oval Invitational-Drake TBA Men’s, Women’s Tennis at Drury University Noon

Saturday, April 13 Men’s, Women’s Track and Field at Blue Oval Invitational-Drake TBA Golf at UIS Spring Invitational TBA

Saturday, April 13 Baseball at Bellarmine University 11 a.m.

Softball vs. Illinois Springfield Noon Baseball at Bellarmine University 2 p.m.

Softball vs. Illinois Springfield 2 p.m.

Sunday, April 14

Tuesday, April 16

Golf at UIS Spring Invitational TBA

Softball at University of Central Missouri 2 p.m.

Baseball at Bellarmine University 11 a.m.

Softball at University of Central Missouri 4 p.m.

Softball vs. McKendree Noon Softball vs. McKendree 2 p.m.

Wednesday, April 17 Men’s, Women’s Track and Field at Kansas Relays TBA

Tune into tmn.truman.edu for a full list of events and to see updated scores.

SOFTBALL| Softball builds momentum over weekend at home Continued from page 14 Early this week, the ’Dogs refocused their attention on the visiting Blue Tigers of Lincoln University. The team began its Tuesday with an 8-0 blowout in which pitcher Rachael Kernich recorded her first career save.

The Bulldogs’ bats caught fire in the second game of the afternoon. With the help of a two-run home run in the third inning by outfielder Christa Reisinger, the team put up 14 runs on its way to a four-inning mercy-rule win 14-1.

Following the five-game win streak this week, the Bulldogs now hold a record of 21-10 on the season and 7-9 in GLVC play, pushing them to eighth place in the conference with 12 games to play before the conference tournament.

The conference tournament is the team’s focus moving forward. Brown hopes the team can lock in and finish her final season as head coach on a high note.

“We don’t have time to hold anything back,” Brown said. “We just need to go for it and keep that intensity and fire going towards the end of the season. There’s so much parity in our conference, any given night someone could take a game from someone else, so we need to come out ready and eager to play and compete.”

The softball team will be hosting two conference doubleheaders over the next week with noon games Saturday and Sunday against University of Illinois Springfield and McKendree University.

Top: Pitcher Lauren Dale plays during Tuesday’s game against Lincoln University. Truman swept Lincoln, building even more momentum after the sweep against UMSL over the weekend.

Left: Utility player and pitcher Kayla Quanstrum bats up against the Blue Tigers. Tuesday’s game was also the softball team’s Military Appreciation game, which included sporting its camouflage uniforms. Photos by Kara Mackenzie

BASEBALL| Baseball searches for turnaround at end of season Continued from page 14 The Bulldogs were set to win against Quincy Tuesday afternoon, but struggled to gain momentum until late in the game. As a result, the Bulldogs saw yet another unfortunate finish, falling to the Hawks 9-5.

With only four series remaining in the regular season, the Bulldogs have fallen to 5-23 overall and currently sit at last place in the GLVC. The Bulldogs hope to right the ship before being eliminated from the conference tournament.

Later this week, the team will travel to Kentucky for a three-game series against Bellarmine University, with the first game scheduled to start at 11 a.m. CDT Saturday.

Top: Pitcher and first baseman No. 7 Holden Missey pitches during baseball’s game against McKendree earlier in the season. Missey had a season high of four hits during the team’s matchup against the Bearcats March 23.

Left: Shortstop and second baseman Evan Kayser slides to safety in the matchup against McKendree. Kayser received a season high of putouts during the April 7 game against Drury University. by Kara Mackenzie

The Index

12

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

Truman basketball plans for summer camps NICOLAS TELEP Staff Writer

The basketball teams and coaches will host camps for younger players this summer as the program has done in the past.

Both the men’s and women’s teams will host weeklong camps for elementary and middle schoolers in June and an elite camp for college-bound high school players. Bulldog players and coaches will teach at the camps, which cost anywhere from $80 for the single-day women’s elite camp to $285 for the week-long residential camp for primary school girls.

Assistant women’s basketball coach Theo Dean said the women’s camps have been going on since Amy Eagan became head coach of the program in 2013. He said the camps are both a recruitment tool for the team and a community outreach program.

“In the area that we’re in, kids aren’t exposed to a lot of travel ball,” Dean said. “So it’s really, for a lot of our youth campers, the most bas-

ketball that they get in the summertime.”

Dean said the team gives kids who might not become college basketball players the opportunity to play on a college floor and train with college coaches. He also said the coaching and training duties are split fairly evenly between the coaches and the current Truman players, and the younger kids often enjoy meeting the Bulldog players.

The high school elite camps also help recruitment for the team, and Dean said of the five freshmen who began their careers with the team this season, four attended Truman elite camps in the past.

Players at all levels will receive T-shirts for participating. The early registration deadline for the women’s camps is May 21.

Head women’s basketball coach Amy Eagan and the team chat at a game during the 2018-19 season. The team will be hosting multiple camps throughout the summer. Photo by Truman Athletics

ATHLETE o f

t h e

w e e k

Grace Feeney led the charge for the Bulldogs at the Central College invite with a strong showing during the heptathlon over the weekend. Feeney took first place in the heptathlon’s shot put, second place in the 200-meter dash and second place in the javelin throw.

Because of her performance in the individual events, Feeney took home the third-place heptathlon spot overall.

Grace Feeney

Join the Detours Editing Team!

30

Apply Today!

Email Bethany Spitzmiller at editor@detoursmagazine.com

The Index

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

13

Golf improves ahead of championships BRENTLY SNEAD Editor-in-Chief

Members of the Truman State University golf team pose for a photo during the University of Central Missouri’s Jennies Invitational, which took place March 25-26. The team is led by senior Brooke Kelley and junior Lindsey Repp, both of whom have been top performers this season. Photos by Truman Athetlics

Kelley prepares her swing during a tournament at Northwest Missouri State University. Kelley is a senior who has been a part of the golf team since arriving on campus.

Lindsey Repp keeps her eye on the ball as she takes a swing during a fall tournament. Repp is a junior member of the team and has taken a natural leadership role this season alongside Brooke Kelley.

)

se

lea

opl y online at tm n.truman.ed e

pe

pp l

e

ik el

w

J

new

OI

NT

M

Nu (p

The golf team continued its season play Sunday into Monday at the Triton Invitational.

Truman State University’s golf team traveled to St. Louis to face off against 15 other teams at its latest golf tournament. The team finished 11th this time around, and leader Brooke Kelley tied for 29th.

Among the top three schools sat University of Illinois Springfield, Lindenwood University and Univeristy of Missouri-St. Louis. Likewise, Illinois Springfield’s Maria Espinosa and Jennifer Queller took home first and second respectively. Additionally, Lindenwood’s Kayleigh Stevens Perez rounded out the top three.

Kelley and Lindsey Repp — who finished 59th out of 92 — are the team captains, and head coach Clint Fitzpatrick said they have been integral in this year’s play.

“Brooke as a senior, and Lindsey as a junior, have continued to improve every year they set foot on campus,” Fitzpatrick said. “They have outstanding leadership skills and really set the tone by working hard every day in every weather condition. They hold their teammates accountable and are supportive at the same time, which is why our team chemistry is as high as it has ever been.”

Katie Gastrau, Maya Schnable and Emily Ducaji also qualified for this tournament. Gastrau and Schnable finished just ahead of Repp at 51 and 52, respectively. Ducaji rounded out the team tied for 62nd.

Fitzpatrick said the team is looking for continued improvement as they move through the rest of the season. The beginning of the season was rough because of harsh weather conditions, so overcoming that has been a challenge.

“Our biggest goal is consistency, on and off the golf course,” Fitzpatrick said. “Right now we are working on taking our good swings from practice onto the golf course and eliminating the small mistakes.”

The golf team will hit the road once again this weekend to attend the UIS Spring Invitational. This will be the team’s last tournament before the GLVC Championships at the end of April.

a

Travel smarter.

St. Louis

29

$ from

*

each way

Get to and from school faster by hopping on an affordable flight from Kirksille. Parking is free, and connections in St. Louis are a breeze with single itinerary ticketing, and speedy baggage and TSA checks.

Kirksville

St. Louis

Enjoy the ride.

capeair.com *Including all taxes and fees. Fares are subject to availability and other conditions. Fares may change

without notice, and are not guaranteed until ticketed.

800-CAPE-AIR

14

THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019

TRACK AND FIELD BRING HOME SUCCESS

Hannah Sells takes part in pole vaulting at the home meet in April 2018. Sells had a successful weekend at Central Methodist Univeristy as she hit an NCAA provisional mark and brought home a career best in pole vault. Photo by Truman Athletics

Men’s, women’s track earn third at CMU NICOLAS TELEP Staff Writer Both the men’s and women’s track teams finished in third place overall at the Central Methodist Invitational Saturday in Fayette, Missouri.

After a rained-out meet last weekend, the men’s team finished with a team score of 101.5 points and the women’s team earned 99.3 points in Fayette. Five first-place finishes powered the team’s strong performance.

Also over the weekend, some of the team’s throwers competed in Pella, Iowa, at the Central College Invite.

Three of the first-place finishes came from the men’s runners. Elijah Farrales won the 400-meter event with a time of 48.23 seconds and Mitch Henderson won the 800-meters with a time of 1:57.07. In the 4x400-meter relay, Farrales anchored the team along with Henderson, Eddie Barrett and Kyle Kubernat for a first-place finish at 3:19.60.

“I’ve been running with [Henderson and Barrett] for three or four years now, so that’s pretty exciting and [Kubernat is] doing pretty well, too,” Farrales said. “I’m excited to see how our relay can do. We had a pretty good showing at indoor, placing second in the conference, so I think we’re in a good spot to be in contention for another medal for outdoor.”

Hannah Sells set a personal high mark of 3.65 meters in the women’s pole vault, good for first place.

Gemma Saathoff won the women’s 1,500-meter with a time of 4:50.68.

At Central College, javelin thrower Elle Renault won the event with a distance of 133-1. Grace Feeney won the shot put portion of the heptathlon with a distance of 9.81 meters and earned third place overall in the event.

Next weekend, the team heads to Des Moines to compete in the Blue Oval Invitational at Drake University.

Softball sweeps UMSL, Lincoln Baseball continues University over weekend to struggle CHASE POTTER Staff Writer

Softball ended its four-game skid after a weekend of doubleheaders and a sweep against both the University of Missouri-St. Louis and Lincoln University. With this momentum, the team is looking to finish the season on a high note.

Over the weekend, the Truman State University softball team hosted two conference doubleheaders against the Maryville University Saints and University of MissouriSt. Louis Tritons.

The Bulldogs opened the weekend Friday with a 6-0 loss to the Maryville Saints, extending their losing streak to four games, their longest of the season.

After stranding five runners on base in the first contest, the Bulldogs’ bats came alive early in the second game of the day, scoring in the first, second and third innings to jump to an early 3-0 lead. The team would hold onto that lead to escape with the victory 3-1.

Looking to build on their momentum, the ’Dogs welcomed the Tritons to Kirksville. After walking in a run in the first inning of the early game, the Bulldog defense tightened and held off UMSL en route to a 2-1 victory.

The second game of Saturday’s doubleheader capped off the weekend in dramatic fashion. With the

VOLUME 110

ISSUE 19

game tied 2-2 in the bottom of the seventh inning, the Bulldogs loaded the bases with left fielder Emma Walbert on third and second baseman Brooke VunCannon at the plate. VunCannon lasered a single past the shortstop to score Walbert and secure the walkoff win, the 19th of the 2019 campaign. This doubleheader also marked Truman’s first sweep of the Tritons since 2011.

Head coach Erin Brown said it is important for her team to play with a sense of urgency after the sweep and hold itself to a higher standard

when faced with adverse situations, especially with the conference tournament looming around the corner.

“I felt like we were just carrying failure with us onto the field and into the dugout,” Brown said following the weekend. “With softball, it’s a game of failure. You’re gonna fail, and you have to get over it. We work a lot on our refocusing routines and what we need to do if we make a bad decision or have a bad at bat or make an error on defense.”

See SOFTBALL page 11

CHASE POTTER Staff Writer This weekend, the baseball team geared up for a three-game conference series against the Drury University Panthers and a single matchup against Quincy University.

In the first game of the weekend, the Bulldogs jumped to an early 3-0 lead in the first inning. The Bulldog defense was able to hold onto the lead until the top of the fifth inning when the Panthers piled on seven runs and took a commanding lead.

Despite a late surge of two runs in the bottom of the ninth, the ’Dogs eventually fell 11-5.

The defensive struggle for the Bulldogs did not end after the first game of the afternoon. In the late game Saturday, Drury again put up 11 runs and mercy-ruled the Bulldogs in the eighth inning 11-1.

The team returned to the diamond Sunday hoping to salvage a single game of the weekend series. After a strong first inning in which the Bulldogs put up three runs, the defense again was unable to slow the Panthers. The defense allowed runs in every inning except the seventh in a 14-7 loss and another disappointing series sweep.

Photo by Kara Mackenzie See BASEBALL page 11 tmn.truman.edu

www.facebook.com/TrumanMediaNetwork

@TrumanMediaNet

© 2019