Bulldogs run away with eighth win
Leftist gun advocate visits campus, page 5 Inside the Kirk Building, page 7 Women’s soccer goes to GLVC quarterfinals, page 13
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Truman State University tmn.truman.edu THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
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Faculty medical insurance to change Jan. 1 BRITTANY CONLEY Staff Writer
Truman State University’s faculty medical insurance plan changes will go into effect Jan. 1, 2020. Dave Rector, vice president for Administration, Finance and Planning, said the medical insurance covers faculty, staff and their dependents. Faculty Senate President Scott Alberts said Faculty Senate didn’t vote on the insurance change and that it was
done by the administration. “The staff is self-insured, meaning that the money they pay in stays within an account at Truman,” Alberts said. “They pay a company a fee to manage benefits. If the collective faculty and staff are particularly healthy in a particular year, their rates will go down or up but mostly it tends to even out.” Sally Herleth, executive director of Human Resources, said there will be minimal disruptions in terms of providers and pharmacy options.
Herleth said there was a push for change because Human Resources typically go out to bid every five years or so. This helps to ensure that they are providing the best benefits possible and employees are getting the best deal in terms of costs. “The fact that we will not be increasing premiums beginning 2020 has been well received. The impact of the change will not be fully realized until we make the switch,” Herleth said. “They recently did a bid to make
UNIVERSITY FARM EXPERIENCES POOR GROWING SEASON ORIELLE HEILICHER Contributing Writer
The Truman State University Farm had a worse growing season than usual, preventing the farm from providing its normal amount of food for the Kirksville community and Sodexo this season. The University Farm produces an average of 5,000 pounds of produce each year, University Farm Manager Bill Kuntz said. This season, however, was not as successful as past seasons because growing conditions were not ideal because of the wet spring and early summer, Kuntz said. Both Sheila Swafford, operations manager for the Pantry for Adair County, and John Stewart, Sodexo director of dining services, confirmed the lack of produce, especially sweet corn. Stewart said the University Farm only provided peppers and potatoes this year, as opposed to its usual high variety of vegetables. Kuntz said the University Farm is mostly used for education purposes, such as teaching students about farming and its intricacies, but it also produces fruits and vegetables that are given back to the community. Kirksville is the fourth most impoverished community in Missouri, with a large population of food insecure people. The Pantry for Adair County opened in July of last year with a mission to help the food insecure population of Kirksville by providing food for low-income households once a month, Lisa Ahrens, board president of the Pantry for Adair County, said. The pantry provided food for 425 residents in the month of October. With the help of Kuntz, the pantry was given a plot of land at the University Farm to grow food for the local community at no cost, Ahrens said. “This year, 2019, we had our first farm and Truman gave us the space to
The farm produces an average of 5,000 pounds of produce each year. The farm had a worse growing season than usual, preventing the farm from providing its normal amount of food. Photo by Orielle Heilicher
do that,” Ahrens said. “Bill was so helpful to help us, like some of the volunteers that don’t know a lot about gardening, he was like, ‘This is what you wanna do,’ so very helpful.” The farm provides varying amounts
of produce based on each season’s yield, Swafford said. She said a lot of the times she couldn’t weigh the produce because it was so heavy. See FARM page 3
Truman receives Tree Resource Improvement and Maintenance Grant MATT FRANK Staff Writer
Truman State University was given a $10,000 Grant. The TRIM grant is given to several government entities and nonprofit groups for the care of publicly owned trees. Photo by Emily Johnson
VOLUME 111 ISSUE 9 © 2019
The Missouri Department of Conservation awarded Truman State University the $10,000 Tree Resource Improvement and Maintenance Grant. The TRIM Grant is given to several government entities and nonprofit groups for the care of publicly owned trees. Truman will also need to match the amount of the grant, but this can be done through an in-kind match, which means the money put toward paying the grounds workers to implement the improvements can be counted as part of the match, University Comptroller Mike Garzaneli said. There are several improvements planned for the tree population on campus. “The grant money is primarily going to be focused on proper pruning and teaching people how to take care
of trees,” Campus Planner Lori Shook said. “There are also a few trees that will be removed due to health and age.” The TRIM Grant can be used for improvements on the current trees on campus, such as pruning them and making sure the trees’ limbs will not fall, improving the safety of those who walk under the trees, Shook said. Another application of the grant is the removal of dead trees, however, it is required to replace all removed trees with native species. A third use of the grant is to educate those who will be working on the trees. The third use of the money from the grant will be used to bring in a local arborist to teach the grounds crew how to properly trim and prune the trees on campus in a way that will keep the trees healthy, Shook said. See TRIM page 6
sure the current company, Aetna, was giving us the best price on the package,” Rector said. Rector said there were several proposals, but the best one was from Anthem. The coverage will be the same and there will be no increase in price. Had the school stayed with Aenta, the cost to the University and employees would have gone up.
Hong Kong protests spark debate RACHEL BECKER News, Photo Editor Ongoing protests in Hong Kong, China, have garnered attention in the U.S., and even students at Truman State University are taking a stand. The New York Times reported on Oct. 3, “The protests started as peaceful marches and rallies against an unpopular bill [that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China]. Then came dozens of rounds of tear gas and a government that refused to back down. In the following weeks and months, the city was roiled by protests and violent clashes as the demonstrations morphed into a broader movement about political reforms and holding the police accountable.” The Times reported that the protests escalated after the police shot a protestor with a live round the same day China was celebrating 70 years of Communist Party rule. Also on the same day, protesters collided with police officers in at least nine districts, turning Hong Kong into a “tear gas-engulfed battlefield.” Young Americans for Liberty set up a table in McClain Hall Friday, Nov. 1 and handed out “Free Hong Kong” buttons. “[Our intent was to] both bring awareness to the situation in Hong Kong and identify other students on campus who are passionate about spreading freedom,” Naomi Mathew, Missouri State chair for YAL, said. Mathew said YAL was concerned with the Chinese government oppressing Hong Kong protestors and taking away their autonomy. A problem people had with their table was that the YAL students were not from Hong Kong, Mathew said. “The people in Hong Kong want our help and our support,” Mathew said. “The protestors are out there waving American flags, saying that they want support from people in the United States.” Mathew said she did not expect the organization’s stance to be controversial, and that YAL didn’t expect to encounter an opposing side. “Whether you are Republican or Democrat, standing up for freedom and the right to free speech should be a non-controversial issue,” Mathew said. At one point there were six people crowding around the YAL table, arguing civilly, Mathew said, however, they were preventing YAL from talking to students. Eventually, a crowd of about 30 people was counter-protesting the free Hong Kong table, Mathew recalled. The counter-protestors set up an opposing table, displaying the Chinese flag. See HONG KONG page 6
The Index
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Students take to the trees Top left: Julia Fangman climbs trees at the University event on Monday. The tree climbing event was held Oct. 28 between Missouri Hall and the Kirk Building.
Top right: Four students in a tree at the SAB sponsored event. SAB brought in Vertical Voyages, a professional tree and rock climbing company out of St. Louis, to help instruct students.
Bottom left: Instructor AJ Garms leading Brandon Thurman up a tree. In order to participate, students had to sign up online for a 20-minute slot with a maximum of eight students in the same time slot. Bottom right: Ben Grabner scales a tree by the bells. The next event held by SAB is “Dining in the Dark,� a Thanksgiving dinner, on Nov. 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the SUB Georgian Rooms. Photos by Bidan Yang
Crime Reports staff Serving the University community since 1909 Editor-in-Chief: Ryan Pivoney Managing Editor: Elisabeth Shirk News Editor: Rachel Becker Copy Chief: Cara Quinn Design Chief: Emmett Divendal Photo Editor: Rachel Becker Designer: Jake Bertish Photographers: Caleb Bolin, Kara Mackenzie, Daniel Degenhardt, Bidan Yang, Emily Johnson, Mary Van Winkle, Patrick Bynum Copy Editors: Kayla Lewis, Luke Jacobi, Emile Hummel, Jessica Robinson, Maddie Lee, Sami Harris, Natalie Wilson, Autumn Dodd-Hinds Staff Writers: Travis Maiden, Gordon McPherson, Allison Maschhoff, Chase Potter, Brittany Conley, Erica Schamel, Matthew Frank, Alex Crawford, Erica Lindsay, Josie Wagner, Andrew Holder Adviser: Don Krause
DPS & KPD 10/29 Theft reported at the 500 block of South Franklin St.
11/2 Bomb threat reported at the 300 block of South Osteopathy St.
10/29 Shoplifter reported at the 2100 block of North Baltimore St.
11/2 Fourth-degree assault reported at Elson St.
10/30 Shoplifting reported at the 3300 block of North Baltimore St.
11/3 Missing person reported at the 900 block of East Meadow Ln.
10/30 Drug possession reported at the 1100 block of Country Club Plz.
11/3 Vehicle property damage reported at the 2200 block of North Baltimore St.
10/30 Theft reported at the 100 block of South Franklin St.
11/3 Theft reported at the 2200 block of North Baltimore St.
10/30 Theft reported at the 1000 block of North Centennial Ave.
11/3 Domestic disturbance and unlawful use of amphetamine/ meth reported at the 1100 block of Country Club Dr.
10/30 Theft reported at the 1700 block of South Baltimore St. 10/30 Fourth-degree assault reported at the 700 block of North Franklin St. 10/31 Possession of marijuana reported at the 800 block of North Franklin St. 11/1 Public intoxication reported at the 1000 block of South Elson St. 11/1 Careless and imprudent driving and marijuana possession reported at Illinois St.
11/3 Driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving reported at the 2200 block of South Marion St. 11/4 Robbery reported at the 500 block of South Franklin St. 11/4 Shoplifting reported at the 2200 block of North Baltimore St. 11/4 Child abuse reported at the 3800 block of South Baltimore St. 11/4 Shoplifter reported at the 200 block of North Baltimore St.
11/1 Third-degree assault reported at the 400 block of West Cottonwood St.
11/4 Unlawful use of a weapon reported at the 1300 block of South Cottage Grove Ave.
11/1 Theft reported at the 400 block of East Burton St.
11/4 Animal attack reported at the 1100 block of South Cottage Grove Ave.
11/2 Fourth-degree assault reported at the 500 block of North Ely St.
11/5 Illegal dumping reported at the 700 block of North Marion St.
The Index
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
calendar FIRST GENERATION STUDENT CELEBRATION DINNER 6-8 P.M. SUB ACTIVITIES ROOM First generation college students are encouraged to attend Truman’s fourth annual First Generation Celebration Dinner.
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Student Government is hosting their second annual TEDxTrumanStateUniversity Conference, which will feature six presentations in two sessions. The presentations include “Teaching Chemistry with Peanut Butter Sandwiches” and “Double Standards in Politics: A Perspective from Game Theory.” Tickets are available online.
STRATEGIC PLANNING TOWN HALL MEETING NOV. 11 3:30-4:30 P.M. VIOLETTE HALL 1000 Truman State University President Sue Thomas will be presenting Truman’s next strategic plan which will be presented to the Board of Governors for approval in April 2020. The meeting and strategic planning materials will be viewable on the strategic plan website.
NOVEMBER
news in brief
TEDXTRUMANSTATEUNIVERSITY CONFERENCE 1-4:45 P.M. SUB GEORGIAN ROOMS
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MACBETH THEATRE PRODUCTION 8-10 P.M. JAMES G. SEVERNS THEATRE Truman’s theatre department presents William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy “Macbeth,” directed by Professor David Charles Goyette. Tickets will be available one week before the performance from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the theatre box office in Ophelia Parrish and must be paid for in advance unless paid for over the phone. General admission tickets are $6 cash or check. Tickets are $7 with a credit or debit card.
WOOFSTOCK 2019 NOV. 16 5-11 P.M. WHITE OAKS BARN This KV-POP (Kirksville-Protect Our Pets) sponsored event will feature live music, food and pet-themed activities. All proceeds go toward KV-POP.
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Open forums scheduled for School of Arts and Letters dean candidates Open forums discussing candidates for the dean of the School of Arts and Letters will take place in the coming weeks. Feedback from faculty, staff and students regarding candidates Susan Maher and Stephen Parsons is important for selection purposes. Maher’s forum will be conducted Nov. 4, and Parson’s forum is Nov. 13. Both forums will take place at 4 p.m. in Baldwin Hall 102. Jefferson Street repairs have begun The City of Kirksville’s contractor, Stanton Contracting, LLC, has started street repairs on East Jefferson Street. This project will require the street to be closed for approximately three to five days, starting Monday Nov. 4, to allow the contractor to remove the damaged street surface and replace it with a new concrete surface. Motorists are encouraged to utilize an alternate route, if possible, and use caution traveling around the area. Investigation for armed robbery underway At around 10 p.m. on Nov. 4, the Kirksville Police Department responded to a report of an armed robbery at Casey’s General Store at 503 South Franklin Street. No one was injured during the incident. The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 6’ tall and of slim build. He was wearing a dark-colored hooded jacket with a blue hooded sweatshirt underneath, dark-colored pants and tennis shoes. He entered the store with a handgun and demanded money from the register. After taking an undisclosed amount of money he fled the scene southbound on foot. Anyone with information about this crime can contact the KPD at (660) 785-6945.
Creative writing program review The creative writing program was up for its first review since becoming a full program in 2009. It showed its strengths in its screenwriting course and an active faculty that produces publications. The program representatives also said it will add a creative writing minor in the future. The program leaders said they are not satisfied with the diversity of faculty within the program, but they will make it a priority to hire more diverse people as soon as possible. The program’s next review is in 2024. Theatre program review The theatre program has made recent technology purchases and curriculum changes. The course History and Literature of the Theatre I, II, III and IV will be offered once every two years. The Theatre Practice course has also undergone changes to reflect the full scope of work done by the individuals in their practice. Another change is adding a cap of 60 students to the Introduction to Theatre Arts course, changing the current cap of 40 students. They are also considering adding this as an online course. Quality Matters Faculty Senate considered integrating the Quality Matters rubric, an online course quality assurance organization, into online courses at Truman State University. It would only be required for those teaching an online course, not hybrid or in-class courses, to undergo the training for Quality Matters. There will be an event Nov. 21 to learn more about Quality Matters. This would allow for more opportunities for faculty to change their course to an online course if they so choose.
FARM| After a bad growing season, the University Farm has lower yield Continued from page 1 Most of the University Farm produce is sold to the Sodexo Farm to Table Program, providing students with fresh produce, Kuntz said. Stewart said produce from the University Farm is brought to the Student Union Building. The centralized salad department for Sodexo then prepares the produce, which is distributed to each dining hall on campus based on dining hall attendance.
“We probably got a couple thousand pounds of potatoes from the farm last year,” Stewart said. “We try to do as much local as we possibly can … we will purchase [local] produce because we are helping sustain the local farmers in our communities.” Missouri Hall usually receives the most food because it’s a newly updated building with a high volume of students who eat there, Stewart said. The produce sold to Sodexo is
not only used in the dining halls but is also used for events because of the large volume of food from the farm. “Last year when we had the Family Day Barbeque … the potatoes that were served that night all came from the University Farm,” Stewart said. “The yellow squash came from the University Farm, the onions and tomatoes that were on the table used for toppings were University Farm products.” After produce has been sold
to Sodexo for distribution among the dining halls, the University Farm gives all the extra produce to the Pantry for Adair County or other available nonprofits in town. In addition to the Pantry for Adair County, Kuntz said the University Farm has donated produce to the Salvation Army. “We also have had a market on The Mall weekly in front of the SUB where we sell produce to anyone that is interested,” Kuntz said. The farm usually grows
potatoes, onions, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, corn, squash, melons, watermelons and a few other varieties of vegetables, Kuntz said. Kuntz said they grow these varieties of produce because they do well in this area and are usually in high demand by Sodexo and other food banks in town. Despite this year bringing lower crop yields, the University Farm continues to provide what they have to the Kirksville and Truman communities.
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[ Our View ] TRIM Grant is a win for campus
DPS director responds to student questions
In response to the column last week, I would like to take a few minutes to let everyone know about the circumstances surrounding the incident involving the man with a weapon at the 300 block of West Patterson Street that was threatening self-harm. First, I would like clarify the difference between a crime alert and an emergency notification (TruAlerts). Crime alerts (timely warnings) have a very narrow scope and focus on only Clery Act crimes. These alerts are triggered by crimes that have already occurred but represent an ongoing threat to the University campus. Emergency notifications (TruAlerts) have a wide focus and are triggered by an event that is currently occurring on or imminently threatening campus. In regard to the incident itself, this is what occurred: the Kirksville Police Department initiated a traffic stop in an area near Truman State University’s campus. The officers on scene anticipated two females in the car. They did not know there was a man with a gun in the car until they were removing the first occupant from the car. That occupant told officers a male was in the backseat of the car hiding with a gun. The male subject in the car exited the vehicle and threatened self-harm. He asked officers to shoot him, indicating he wanted to die by “suicide by cop.” At no time did he indicate he was going to harm anyone else or target campus. In fact, during the incident he took a step toward campus and officers threatened to use lethal force on him, so he quickly took steps back to show that he was not a threat to campus. The Kirksville Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Department of Public Safety had a perimeter set up and the individual would not have been able to leave the immediate area where he was stopped. At no time was the gunman on campus. This rumor spread like wildfire through social media, and the quickest way to stop it was to put out that there was no threat to campus on the DPS social media page. Because of law enforcement on scene handling the incident quickly and effecting the situation by arresting the subject on scene, no alert was put out. Once the subject was arrested, there was no need to put out an alert. If the incident would have been ongoing and not resolved quickly, an alert would have been considered to keep people away from this area. DPS focuses on keeping campus safe. Had an alert been sent out to avoid the area of the 300 block of West Patterson Street because of KPD dealing with a suicidal subject with a weapon, some students would have gone to that area just to check it out, driven by the area to see what was going on or just walked over near the scene to listen to the excitement and potentially put themselves in a more dangerous situation. I realize that no matter what I say, there are always going to be people who are not happy with the answers to the questions around this incident I have given here. Please know that my officers and I work hard and train hard to keep Truman’s campus a safe place to get an education and to live. Our first priority is your safety.
One of the things that might have appealed to you as a prospective student at Truman State University is the campus greenery. Campus is filled with old-growth trees of varying species. In fact, the entirety of Kirksville has an abundance of trees. Coming into town on U.S. Highway 63, visitors are greeted with a sign declaring Kirksville, Missouri, a Tree City USA. Likewise, Truman is honoured as a Tree Campus USA. The tree campus distinction is given to campuses who meet three criteria: effectively managing campus trees, developing connections with the community that help promote urban forests, and striving to engage students in forestry-related efforts. Though it may not seem like Truman has a lot of activities based solely around trees, a lot of service efforts around campus do focus on the environment and sustainability. This semester, the Campus Tree Advisory Committee organized tours to teach students about the kinds of trees on campus. The University also recently received a grant of $10,000 to ensure more work goes toward revitalizing and taking care of campus trees. We, The Index Editorial Board, commend Truman’s dedication to trees and campus beautification. This might be a small aspect of student life on campus, but it is important to the University as a whole. A short walk through The Quad or by the red barn makes it easy to see that our University takes care of its trees. We encourage students to take some time to think about the impact trees have on campus and student life. Whether students are hammocking on a summer day, napping in the shade to pass some time or reading under the massive oaks, it would be hard to imagine campus without its trees. We appreciate the time and effort the Campus Tree Advisory Committee has dedicated to making the campus a naturally inviting space. With organized tree walks and information available online, there is no doubt that Truman students, faculty and staff enjoy the care given to the campus scenery.
Truman should consider concealed carry policy
Over the past week and a half, we have had two armed robberies on or near our campus. One of these armed robberies took place behind my residence hall, and I was immediately concerned for my safety. I run at night, and I began to contemplate how SUBMITTED BY: I could possibly defend myself if I was face-to-face with a potential robber. My first Sara Seifert, thought was to buy a handgun, and I looked up the Truman State University policy Department of Public Safety director on weapons. I was disappointed to learn that weapons of any kind are not allowed on Truman’s campus. I empathize with our campus administrators as this policy was put in place for the protection of students. I have no doubt that our administrators have our safety in mind, however, a potential mugger will not share this concern. In my opinion, recent events have underscored that our safety is being threatened here at Truman. We cannot have police escorts twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and even if we could, this would be no way to go through life. Instead, it is necessary to change the concealed carry policy here at Truman. The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution gives us the right to bear arms, but even if it did not, we would regardless have the right to defend ourselves. Thomas Jefferson and John Locke are a few philosophers who supported the idea of Happy November from Student Government! Student Government works all year natural rights. These are the rights that we, as human beings, are born with. One such to provide projects and policies for the students of Truman State University through natural right is the right to defend one’s self, and we are currently being deprived of its various committees. A subcommittee under Student Government is the Purple this right at Truman. By restricting us from carrying weapons on campus, Truman is Friday committee. This committee works to bring spirit to Truman and support also depriving us of our self-defense capabilities. Unfortunately, muggers are not conthose that show their Truman pride every Friday. A common slogan around campus fined to our weapons policy, and as such have used knives and handguns during their is “Every Friday is a Purple Friday at Truman!” The Purple Friday committee works robberies. To be defenseless against those who would deprive you of your property to support this phrase by having a table around campus every Friday. At this table, and possibly your life is a terrifying possibility. While the Kirksville City Police Departstudents, faculty and staff can pick up free candy and various stationary items. Once ment and the Department of Public Safety are noble, a response will be too late to do a month, the Purple Friday committee plans events to get students even more excited anything but mourn your lost belongings, or your life. A handgun will allow the stuabout Truman. This year during Homecoming, Purple Friday celebrated the upgraded dents of Truman to stand up and defend ourselves, so it is imperative that we change fountain on The Mall by providing free popcorn with the help of Spike! Later in the the campus weapons policy at Truman. semester, we will have free cookies, free hot chocolate and a day to celebrate summer While it is necessary to illuminate the problem, all this is nothing without a soluin December for the last day of classes before finals. A new addition this year is our tion. Every weapon brought on campus would have to be registered with campus Bulldog Shoutout. Students and faculty are encouraged to fill out the short survey of administrators to ensure that we do not have weapons floating around campus. fun questions to be featured on Student Government social media. Check out Student Mandatory safety and instructional classes would also be necessary. A weapon can be Government on social media if you are interested in the Purple Friday schedule for the more dangerous in the hands of an untrained individual, and as such, we must require rest of the semester! that all weapons owners on campus pass the necessary training. Once an individual If you are interested in getting involved with Student Government, have an idea for has registered their weapon with administrators and passed the necessary training, us to pursue or just want to chat more, please reach out to us at studentgovernment@ they should be allowed to carry a weapon for self-defense. The last thing we want is truman.edu. Don’t forget, we meet at 5 p.m. every Sunday in SUB 3000 and all of our untrained individuals carrying unregistered weapons. This would potentially lead to meetings are open to the general public. more danger on our campus, and safety should be one of our highest priorities. If you Twitter and Instagram @tsustugov would like to help change the campus weapons policy, please make your voice heard. Facebook @TSUstudentgovernment Let the administrators know how you feel about the current policy and inform them of your ideas for a solution. Together, we can work to make our campus a better and SUBMITTED BY: safer place. Abbie White, SUBMITTED BY: Purple Friday Committee Chair Freshman Jack Ratliff 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 Submit corrections or contact the editor. 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 reason the editor-in-chief deemsand appropriate. material includes advertisements letters to the Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor, section editors, copy chief assistantSubmitted copy chief. The Index reserves the rightand to edit subindex.editor@gmail.com 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. 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The Index
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
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Leftist gun advocate visits campus
SRA President Alex Tackett presented for the students at the event. Topics she talked about included the history of firearms in the U.S. and minority communities, the divide between republicans and democrats over guns and the SRA’s personal philosophy about firearms. said. “That’s why the SRA does things like putting a watch out for [shooting] ranges that don’t engage in this behaviour, so that we can tell our membership and the public, ‘Hey, our chapter has gone to this range and they’ve been acting really well. They’re really inclusive and open. So, if you want a place to be able to go, then maybe check out this range.’” Although the SRA has varying degrees of leftism like socialism, Marxism, Maoism and communism, Tackett said all members agree that the best way to approach discussing firearms and gun control laws is by understanding who they affect most in society. People in office want the world to be a safer place, but not every law or bill that passes creates safety and can actually hurt a lot of vulnerable groups, Tackett said. Daniels said the best way to approach being more comfortable with guns or trying to understand the perspective of gun owners is to ask SRA members or gun owners questions. “Gun owners aren’t going to be mad that you’re asking about
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guns. They’re gonna be helpful in any way,” Daniels said. “People, especially from the SRA, are not gonna get mad if you ask some crazy question. We want to help you understand why we are so passionate about firearms in general and what that means for us.” Getting more information on any given topic, like guns, and even having someone knowledgeable about that topic lead an informational discussion over it can help someone figure out what their stance and feelings are on the topic for themselves. “I’ve had groups on campus approach me on a lot of different topics over the years to have me come in and speak,” Whittom said. “Not because they had an opinion one way or another, but because they didn’t feel they had enough information to form an opinion. So they said, ‘Would you come in and speak on this topic or that topic, so we can kind of gather more information.’ Depending on what your background is, where you grew up and things like that, across the country and across the world, things are different.”
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SRA President Alex Tackett took photos with people after the presentation. The Students for a Democratic Society invited the Socialist Rifle Association president to visit campus Oct. 24. Submitted photos
thinks discussing a topic like guns is beneficial for students because Truman is a place centered around sharing ideas and opinions. He said gun-related discussions don’t always have to be violent or have protests because it depends on the attitude of the group giving the talk. Whittom said a different perspective on something can make for better conversation, but he and the Department of Public Safety ultimately don’t have any single opinion on the topic because they just facilitate safety for discussion events. Society, specifically within college campuses, can have a problem with generalizing democrats and republicans as only feeling one certain way about guns, Daniels said. “I think what a group like SRA does is kind of breach that barrier a little bit and make conservatives realize not all leftists are the same,” Daniels said. “Some of us actually do enjoy gun ownership and find importance in gun ownership.” There is a contentious conversation about guns, especially with labelling people who like guns as Republican, Daniels said. People should be more open to the idea of gun ownership and why guns are important, Daniels said, because it allows others to learn more about how people come to the conclusion that guns are important. For people like himself, Daniels said guns are a part of everyday living and help put food on the table, which some people from inner cities don’t understand. Guns don’t always have to be a political conversation because for some people, like law enforcement, it’s a way a life or is just a part of their job, Daniels said. What the SRA really wants to counter is the negative aspects of gun culture, Tackett said, such as people associating guns with discriminatory behavior. “Anyone should be able to feel comfortable walking into a shooting range, trying out a gun and talking to the staff without worrying about their personal safety because the gun store clerk might be a bigot,” Tackett
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Students for a Democratic Society invited the Socialist Rifle Association president to visit campus Oct. 24 to host an event about how a person can support firearms and still be politically left leaning. The SRA was founded in March 2018 and its purpose is to be a safe place for left-leaning people to voice their advocacy for and ownership of guns. Topics the organization covers include firearm education, training and safety. There are under 30 ratified chapters currently operating in the U.S. SRA President Alex Tackett said she enjoyed speaking with students and thought the event was a success. Topics she talked about included the history of firearms in the U.S. and minority communities, the divide between republicans and democrats over guns and the SRA’s personal philosophy about firearms. She said she was prepared for most questions asked by students about the ethics of socialism and guns since they are commonly asked. While having spoken at other social and conference events, Tackett said this was her first time speaking for the SRA at a university. Garron Daniels, vice president of Students for a Democratic Society, said he’s an SRA member and was the one who contacted Tackett about coming to Truman State University. Daniels said a common misconception about the SRA is that it’s a liberal revo-
lutionary group. He said he considers it to be more democratic and progressive with ideas of denouncing capitalism for socialism. It’s typical for there to be an anti-gun identity on the left, Daniels said. Inviting the SRA to speak was a way for students to hear a perspective about guns that isn’t right-wing orientated, he said. Tackett said her organization is more community based with a focus on reaching out to the broader public to discuss firearms, while the National Rifle Association is a high-end lobbying group that centers its attention on Congress. The two groups also vary in how they structure their organizations. Tackett said the SRA has chapters which do independent work under the SRA’s national body, but the NRA has state associations which are local levels of a national organization. The SRA likes to have activities for its members while NRA members only pay for a membership, Tackett said. Daniels said a reason why discussing gun rights and ownership with college students is valuable is because most college students are 18 and older. Daniels said in Missouri, 18-year-olds can own rifles and a 21-year-old can legally own a handgun and conceal and carry. Students are directly affected by gun laws and ownership, so Daniels said talking about the topic can help them better understand differing views on the matter. Chad Whittom, assistant director of public safety, said he
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The Index
6
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
Pantry for Adair County presents new structure ELISABETH SHIRK Managing Editor
The Pantry for Adair County held an open house Oct. 28 to showcase its new structure, which features a new walk-in freezer, walk-in cooler and shelter for clients to stand under during inclement weather. The new structure is located next to the pantry’s existing structure at 2012 South Halliburton Street. This is the pantry’s first expansion since it moved to its current address in July 2018. PAC Board President Lisa Ahrens said planning for the new structure began in the spring and community volunteers built the
structure in three weeks. The entire project cost $27,000 with the structure itself coming in at around $4,000 and the freezer and cooler totaling $23,000. Ahrens said a large majority of the cost was covered by Truman State University’s Greek Week fundraiser last April. PAC Operations Manager Sheila Swafford said the new structure will offer more space for the pantry to receive products from The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri. The freezer and cooler will help keep products like meat and produce fresh for longer. The freezer and cooler sit at the back of the structure and the
front is open space with a roof where people will be sheltered from rain, snow, extreme heat or other weather while they wait to enter the pantry. “Some people ask, ‘Why can’t we just wait inside,’ but it’s a fire code thing,” Ahrens said. “We can only have [a total of] 25 people in there.” Swafford said the pantry serves over 400 households each month, which equates to more than 1,000 people. She said the goal of the open house was not just to showcase the new shelter, but to also showcase that the accomplishments of PAC have been a group effort.
A showcase for the new structure was held Oct. 28. It was partially funded from money raised during Greek Week. Photo by Elisabeth Shirk
HONG KONG| Overseas protests inspire a dialogue at Truman State University Continued from page 1 “Sometimes they would come up to us and ask us questions,” Mathew said. “Most of the time it was civil … toward the end, [the Department of Public Safety] came because there were so many people and it was loud. Two people started shouting and DPS came back in and told everyone that unless the shouting stopped we would have to disperse, and if we didn’t disperse they would ar-
rest whoever was still there. That was when the protestors left.” Mathew said she was glad the protestors showed up and talked to YAL. She said that YAL is happy to hear from different sides of the issue. Michael Zhang, an international student from mainland China, said he can understand what the Hong Kong protestors are feeling. He said the young protestors are the ones who are more capitalis-
tic rather than communistic, and they often lack a national identity. “They are too young,” Zhang said. “They don’t know what happened in the process, they don’t know that feeling. I can understand they want to [achieve] democracy.” Zhang said the protests have affected people’s lives so law enforcement should do something about it. He said the protestors wear masks,
which makes him question if they are terrorists, and it is scaring people. He said he does not want to see the Chinese government take action against the protestors, and he hopes that things resolve themselves. However, Zhang said if the protestors keep doing what they are doing, the government will act. The Times reported that Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, would formally
withdraw the extradition bill, giving in to one of the protester’s major demands. However, the Hong Kong protestors still had more ambitious demands, and the protests continued. Zhang said the withdrawal of the bill is a good start. Now, the Hong Kong protestors are wanting independence, which Zhang said he disagrees with.
TRIM| Truman State University was awarded grant to care for campus trees
The Campus Tree Advisory Committee was a driving force in Truman acquiring the TRIM Grant. The committee is comprised of members from the Truman and Kirksville communities. Photo by Emily Johnson
Continued from page 1 “One of the trees here on campus that is of a fairly good size has recently died and it’s out on The Quad, so the biggest part of that is to make sure it is taken down in a safe manner,” Garzanelli said. “Depending on the different quotes we have gotten, taking down a large tree can be anywhere from $500 to a few thousand dollars.” Truman does put importance on having a variety of native trees, as seen in the campus tree walks. There are two tree walks on campus, one at the red barn near Pershing Building and another on The Quad. The maps of these walks can be found on Truman’s website. A tree walk is a path that has a variety of trees to look at and learn from, and
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the walks here on campus have plaques near the base of some trees that state what kind of tree it is, associate professor of biology Elisabeth Hooper said. “Ultimately, in the future, we would like to have campus be declared an arboretum,” Hooper said. “We would have just one map of campus focusing in on where some of the interesting trees are.” An arboretum is similar to a botanical garden, but focused on trees. The growth of tree walks throughout campus will add to the tree diversity on campus, Hooper said. The TRIM Grant specifically can help Truman with expanding tree walks. Hooper teaches with the tree walks and is also a member of the Campus Tree Advisory Com-
mittee. The Campus Tree Advisory Committee was a driving force in Truman acquiring the TRIM Grant. The committee is comprised of members from the Truman and Kirksville communities. This group came together with individuals on campus to secure the grant. Having the Campus Tree Advisory Committee is one of the requirements for Truman to be considered a Tree Campus USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. The City of Kirksville is also recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA. This affiliation with the Arbor Day Foundation acknowledges Truman, as well as Kirksville, as being tree friendly.
life f
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
7
Inside the Kirk Building
Historic campus building houses several student resources The Kirk Building houses multiple student resources, such as the Publications Office, the Writing Center and the Language Company. The Kirk Gym, located on the top floor of the building, is a place where students can do activities that might require more space than a classroom. Photo by Daniel Degenhardt
Zach Weinman Contributing Writer The Kirk Building, located west of Blanton-Nason-Brewer Hall, is home to multiple resources on campus for students to take advantage of. The building is named after John R. Kirk, who was the fifth president of the University in 1899. According to Truman’s newsletter during the celebration of 150 years, Kirk was the second-longest tenured president in Truman’s history behind Walter H. Ryle. Built in 1923, the Kirk Building was renamed in 1959 in honor of John R. Kirk. For many alumni, the Kirk Building was once known as a hub for social activities, including basketball games, assemblies and other student events. The building, however, started to see less traffic after the Student Union Building was built in 1967. The Center For Academic Excellence, the Publications Office, the Writing Center and the Language Company all currently reside in the Kirk Building today. The gym that previously hosted Truman basketball games is also still on the top floor of the building. All of these resources offer various serves to Truman students. The Center for Academic Excellence is located on the first floor and assists students academically at Truman. The Center for Academic Excellence is home to the advisers that help out all of the new Truman students with creating schedules, information about majors, maintaining sample four-year plans and working with the
Scholastic Enhancement Experience Program. Truman’s website describes the SEE Program as a retention-based academic institution that helps its participants sharpen their academic skills, increase self-efficacy, learn about campus resources and form valuable connections to Truman during an intensive two-week summer program. The Center for Academic Excellence also runs the tutoring center, which provides students with tutors in various subjects. Andrew Hasenback, a tutor for the Center for Academic Excellence, said that students who are aware of the Center for Academic Excellence take advantage of it. “Students are more comfortable seeking help from a student who has previously taken the course than seeking help from the professor,” Hasenback said. “With that said, the same students consistently come back for tutoring, so it appears that there is a lack of awareness when it comes to students knowing what services are provided.” The Publications Office is located on the second floor of the Kirk Building in room 210. It offers design and publishing services for University offices and organizations on campus. Some of the Publications Office design items include, posters, brochures, business cards, logos, flyers, t-shirts, advertisements and more. Once a request work order is submitted through a work-order form or email, the staff walks clients through the process and offers free designs if needed.
Director of Publications Teresa Wheeler said the majority of requests are from student organizations for posters. She also added that they do not provide services for students for class projects. The Writing Center is located on the first floor of the Kirk Building in room 120. The Writing Center is a resource for students to improve papers for any class or subject. Although the Writing Center does not add material, “fix” the paper, lecture or grade, it offers services to student writing. For students, they suggest revisions, expansions and restructuring of the paper. During a meeting with the Writing Center, a discussion could address content, strength of arguments, writer’s block and more. Another goal is to provide resources, feedback and different perspectives. The Writing Center informs clients on citations, grammar, formatting and more. Writers of any level are encouraged to use the Writing Center in order to strengthen their writing skills. The Language Company is another resource located in the Kirk Building. The Language Company is a private English program for students looking to improve their English skills and get familiar with American culture. Students will learn from teachers who are highly skilled in teaching English to international
students. 13 starting dates per year are offered including August and January sessions which begin at the same time as the fall and spring semesters. The Kirk Gym is one of many historical areas on campus. Located at the top of the building, the gym has an old-school feel and is a large area for organizations to make use of. Until the Pershing Building was built in 1958, the gym was the primary location for sports teams and the campus recreation facility. For basketball games it could hold up to 800 people, and placing seats on the floor to use as an auditorium could hold around 1,500 people. Once the Pershing Building was finished, all sports-related activities moved away from the Kirk Building. Today, the gym is used by many organizations, including the University Swingers and marching band’s color guard. Laura Bates, director of the Student Union and Campus Activities, said that usage is currently limited due to the flooring that has been worn down over time. Further renovations of the space would need to occur to use it in a larger fashion. The Kirk Gym is also a place that students can spend time in between classes and do activities that may require more space than a classroom. It is possible to update the Kirk Building into a space that students can use regularly, which would bring even more resources to campus.
“It appears that there is a lack of awareness when it comes to students knowing what services are provided.” Andrew Hasenback, tutor
Above: The Kirk Building has been on Truman State University’s campus since 1923 and was a hub for student activity until the current Student Union Building was built. In 1959, it was given the name “Kirk Building” after John R. Kirk, Truman’s fifth president. Submitted photo
Right: The Kirk Gym is on the top floor of the Kirk Building and used to be the main gym for Truman Athletics and other campus recreation. Laura Bates, director of the Student Union and Campus Activities, said the gym’s usage is currently limited because of the flooring that has been worn down over time.
VOLUME 111
ISSUE 9
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The Index
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
November is...
Academic Writing Month COPD Awareness Month Alzheimer’s Awareness Month National Family Caregivers Month National Novel Writing Month National Native American Heritage Month Veterans Day — Nov. 11 Thanksgiving — Nov. 28 Black Friday — Nov. 29
TOP MONTH
Date
[5]
TIPS FOR BUSY BOOK LOVERS
By Elisabeth Shirk, busy book lover
3. Multitask
I’m not suggesting you try to read your favorite book and take notes in class, but you certainly could read something while you eat a meal or ride a stationary bike at the Student Recreation Center. If you’re doing something simple or reading something simple, multitasking isn’t a big feat. Even I can do it.
1. Schedule time to read
4. Listen to an audiobook
If reading is important to you, then it deserves to be a part of your schedule. Even just five to 30 minutes of reading can make a huge difference in your day or your week. For me, it makes the stress of my other responsibilities dwindle as I’m forced to slow down and relax for a bit.
While holding a book and turning the pages are, understandably, some of the great joys of reading, audiobooks are one of the best ways to multitask. You can have your audiobook playing while you cook dinner, work-out, grocery shop, drive and check many more things off of your to-do list.
2. Read something simple
5. Keep reading material with you at all times
If I don’t have the time to push through a lengthy, complex plot, I will pick up a magazine, newspaper or book that I’ve already read and enjoyed. These types of reads do not require much time or undivided attention. While it’s important to rest your body, it’s equally important to rest your mind, so don’t be hesitant to pick up an easy read. What matters is that you’re still reading.
1989
Sometimes you don’t know when you’re going to have a few free minutes — a long wait at the doctor’s office or a long car ride, for example — so having something to read at all times is quite helpful. There have been plenty of times I have played Candy Crush Saga on my phone while wishing I had something to read instead. You might not have a lot of time, but that time will feel less wasted if you spend it reading.
Kohlenberg Lyceum Series brings writer, politicians to campus
What is this?
The Index’s new series “Truman Throwback” takes readers back to a different year in Truman State University’s history. Each installment is aimed at giving readers a look into what was happening during those years at Truman.
Autumn Dodd-Hinds, Natalie Wilson Copy Editors In this first installment of Truman Throwback, we are taking it all the way back to 1989 to remember two events that impacted Truman State University’s campus — a visit from renowned author Maya Angelou and the 1988 U.S. presidential election. The first of these was Maya Angelou’s historic visit to Truman’s campus. 30 years ago, Angelou came to speak for the first Kohlenberg Lyceum Series event of the 1988-89 academic year. The event was chronicled in the 1989 publication of Truman’s former yearbook, the Echo. The article said personal reasons caused Angelou to arrive one week later than scheduled, but she still captivated the audience with stories from her life and a lecture on the importance of education. She ended the night by attending a reception held in her honor in Ryle Hall where she met students and autographed copies of her books. Angelou gained international recognition for her 1969 autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” and was an acclaimed
poet, professor, activist, playwright, singer and author of six more autobiographies. While Angelou’s presentation in 1989 was certainly a notable event for Truman’s campus, the University has a long tradition of hosting a range of speakers and entertainers. This fall, the Kohlenberg Lyceum Series opened with “The Rocket Man Show” performed by the official Elton John body double, Rus Anderson. That same academic year, in the fall of 1988, registered voters cast their ballot to decide the 41st president of the United States. For many Truman students, that was their first opportunity to participate in the voting process. It brought a lot of excitement to campus, and in response, Truman brought in two political speakers for the 1989 Kohlenberg Lyceum Series, which was also recorded in that year’s edition of The Echo. Sen. George McGovern spoke on behalf of the liberal perspective while William F. Buckley Jr. advocated for the conservative view. Though the men had differing perspectives, they both agreed that it was important for young voters to be active in our nation’s politics. Students on campus today are facing a
similar situation with the 2020 presidential election rapidly approaching. Like the students at Truman 30 years ago, this will be the first time many are of voting age. Issues like tuition, student loans, job availability, health care and LGBTQ+ rights are just a few commonly debated political topics that directly impact college students. Truman offers many different ways of getting information on current political events and the candidates who are running. There is a radio show on 88.7 KTRM at 11 a.m. every Saturday called “Across the Aisle” — hosted by political student organization representatives Reece Ellis, Carolyn Klamm, Josh Glor and Isaac Hampton — that provides leftist, liberal and conservative perspectives on current political events. There are also several clubs that represent these various political views, such as College Democrats, College Republicans, Students for a Democratic Society and Young Americans for Liberty. Whether you join a club, tune-in to Truman’s local radio station or read the news to keep up to date with what’s going on in politics, students today have plenty of ways to get involved just as our fellow Truman students did 30 years ago.
The Index
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
9
Storytime with
Allison
The SS Warrimoo Wedding
Disclaimer: The SS Warrimoo was a real Australian/New Zealand passenger ship that sailed from 1892–1918. In the 1940s-50s, a story began circulating that the SS Warrimoo had managed to cross the intersection of the International Date Line and the equator right at the turn of the century. This story is based on the unlikely event that the story from the 1940s-50s is true. After encountering the story on Pinterest, I did a little more digging and I couldn’t help but wonder what might have happened if Captain John Phillips of the SS Warrimoo had been officiating a wedding on that night in 1899. Well, 1900 if you were on the other end of the boat. Allison Maschhoff Staff Writer I don’t think my grandkids ever did believe the story I told them of their grandma and I’s wedding. Well, maybe Penny. She was always one for a story. But the others, they tended to throw in my wedding story with the stories of Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. I remember little Evan once told me, “Why Grandpa, you can’t even find a picture of your Captain John Phillips on the internet! That proves he isn’t real!” “That doesn’t prove anything,” I retorted. “The internet is no match for an old man’s memory! Besides, where was the internet in 1899? What could it possibly know about way back then?” Evan rolled his eyes. His cousins, Lucy and Quin, shook their heads. But Penny, hugging her knees to her chest in a way that made her 8-year-old frame look five years younger, suggested, “Maybe if you tell us the story again, Grandpa. Maybe that will help Evan understand.” She stole a glance at her brother before adding, “Now that he’s 11, he thinks he’s not supposed to believe in anything anymore.” “That’s not true!” Evan crossed his arms. “I just don’t want to be lied to like a little kid.” “Well, why don’t you ask Grand-
ma for the story and see if it’s different?” “Grandma just tells me that Grandpa tells it better.” I chuckled. “Kids, calm down. Everybody knows that 11-year-olds have it rough. Why, how can you know who to believe? So many stories are turning out to be untrue! But, trust me, grandfathers don’t lie. Especially not about how we met grandmothers.” Evan remained skeptical. Penny looked quite satisfied and Quin seemed to be leaning toward siding with her. I believe Lucy had heard the word “Grandma” and decided to go find her, perhaps hoping for a tea party. No bother, she’d hear the story again sooner or later. I’d make sure of that. I cleared my throat. “Well, you see, Captain John Phillips had agreed to take your grandma and me along on his journey from Vancouver to Australia. We’d get married on the way and then do our honeymoon over in Australia. We thought it was pretty perfect. Little did we know what sort of captain we had agreed to sail with.” “Captain John was always testing his crew. He’d want them to sail as close as possible to something or have them wait until the last minute to make a turn. All sorts of strange tasks. He said it would keep them on their toes. Well, on the 31st of December, the first mate
happened to point out that we were only a few miles from the intersection of the International Date Line and the equator. Of course, Captain John immediately thought of a brand new test for his crew. “He told them to position the boat exactly across that intersection. And by golly, that crew never did disappoint him. They anchored the ship right over the intersection at a quarter to midnight. Then the captain told your grandma and me to get into our wedding clothes.” Penny, asking the same question she always did at this point in the story, said, “Can you still wear a wedding dress if you get married on a boat?” “Yes, sweetheart.” “Did she look pretty?” “The prettiest anybody has ever looked.” Penny smiled, whispered to her brother, “I think I’ll get married on a boat someday,” and then turned her eyes back to me. That was my cue. “So Captain John brought us out to the middle of the boat and he told each of us where to stand. We said our vows before God and the crew and then he pronounced us husband and wife. The salty breeze had the hair on both our heads — I had hair
back then, you see — all over and I had to push hair out of her face to give her the wedding kiss.” Pause for the disgusted noises made by children who don’t yet wish to be kissed by anyone. “And then Captain John told us exactly what he had done. “You see, your grandma was standing in the Northern Hemisphere in the middle of winter on Dec. 31, 1899. But I was standing in the Southern Hemisphere in the middle of summer on Jan. 1, 1900. So we got married in two different hemispheres, on two different days, in two different months, seasons, years and centuries! So, for the last sixty-five years, your grandma has celebrated our wedding anniversary on the 31st of December and I’ve waited to celebrate on the 1st of January. Every year each of us tries to convince the other that they’ve got the wrong date, but so far neither of us has succeeded.” Then I leaned in real close and told them, “Don’t tell her I said so, but I’ve always liked having two anniversaries. So I don’t really mind that I haven’t convinced her to celebrate on my day.” Of course, after that, all of them, even skeptical little Evan, ran to tell Grandma my “secret.”
“The Death of Dick Long” is bone-dry comedy Gordon McPherson Staff Writer “The Death of Dick Long” is among the weirdest films I’ve seen all year. Directed by Daniel Scheinert — one of the masterminds behind “Swiss Army Man” — the film is a suspense comedy that consistently surprises. One fateful night in small town Alabama, three members of the band Pink Freud enjoy a night of drug use, alcohol consumption and poor decisions. Their gathering seems innocent enough, reminiscent of a particularly idiotic night of fraternity partying, however, one member — the titular Dick Long — gets mortally wounded. It appears Long wasn’t long for this world. Zeke and Earl, the other incompetent band members, are obviously freaked out but don’t want anybody to know what happened. Claiming responsibility proves too much for these country folk. Zeke must contend with his suspicious wife, inquisitive daughter and two bumbling police detectives on the case. The cane-carrying Sheriff Spenser enjoys sipping Malibu pineapple rum in stressful times. The novice Officer Dudley, on her first homicide case, always has a quiche waiting for her at home. Roy Wood Jr. of “The Daily Show” fame also makes an appearance as a flabbergasted medical examiner. Like “Swiss Army Man,” “The Death of Dick Long” defies classification. The film’s dark humor and profane revelations are reminiscent of “Fargo,” “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” “Good Time” and “Logan Lucky” — four vastly different films. Suspense, vulgarity and stupidity are on display from frame one. After the bombastic excesses of “Zombieland: Double Tap,” it’s refreshing to watch a comedy with well-realized characters. “The Death of Dick Long” is dry, full of uncomfortable situations and hysterical coincidences that the actors fully commit to. Even though Zeke and Earl are wildly inept and cowardly individuals, the film made me actually care about them by the end. Zeke in particular, played by a pitch-perfect Michael Abbott Jr., is an endearing character. His attempts to cover his tracks are simultaneously hilarious and pitiful. Zeke spouts a seemingly never-ending series of flimsily constructed lies which don’t hold up under scrutiny, resulting in several painful
encounters which embrace the comedic potential of classic dramatic irony. Part of how “The Death of Dick Long” subverts comedic clichés, however, involves the film’s focus on the human consequences of Zeke and Earl’s decisions. At times, the film even plays like an art house drama — full of dead serious closeups and reaction shots basked in cinematic lighting and atmospheric touches. Zeke’s wife and child grow increasingly suspicious of Zeke and Earl, leaving Zeke flailing for an escape from his unfortunate situation. Indeed, Zeke embodies the kind of emotionally repressed masculinity that is becoming all too common nowadays. His secret life away from his wife and daughter reflects a sense of loneliness that ultimately proves tragic as the film progresses. At one point, alone in his bedroom, Zeke punches a lamp shade in a fit of rage and sadness — a prime example of how the film can elicit laughs and empathy at the same time. However, while viewers know that Zeke and Earl are lying from the beginning, the specifics of what actually happened that tragic night remain hidden until the film’s halfway point. The main reveal is shocking and deeply taboo. It’s ridiculous but also masking deeper emotions. In fact, it might be the most memorable plot twist of the year. While I adore how “The Death of Dick Long” illustrates the subversive potential of comedy, the film has notable pacing issues. Some sequences drag on too long, likely leaving technology-dependent viewers checking their smartphones at regular intervals. The film also requires viewers’ attention to get its messages across. Individual scenes seem unnecessary and overly self-indulgent, but make more sense when the film’s central themes surface later on. The film’s particular brand of humor — raunchy, offensive, yet oddly heartfelt — won’t be to everyone’s taste. The film is carried by this humor and Abbott Jr.’s performance, appealing to a specific demographic of sarcastic, open-minded cinephiles. In other words, those who enjoyed “Swiss Army Man” will undoubtedly enjoy Scheinert’s new cinematic effort. If viewers are looking for a befuddling, harsh and idiosyncratic film with three-dimensional characters, “The Death of Dick Long” doesn’t come up short.
“The film’s particular brand of humor — raunchy, offensive, yet oddly heartfelt — won’t be to everyone’s taste.” Gordon McPherson, Staff Writer
The Index
10
Ouestions ?
on
Ashley Bone, junior
Ron Manning, French professor
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
the
Ouad ?
Shelby LaFollette, senior
Question 1: How are you feeling about your schedule for next semester? “I’m happy. It’s more chill than this semester. Hopefully I’ll have more time to take care of myself.”
“Good. I like the classes I’m teaching next semester and the spring semester is always one [during which] the people — the freshmen — are more relaxed.”
“It’s going to be rough, but I’ve already talked to some professors about the classes I’m concerned about.”
Question 2: Who do you think is an underrated author? “I’ve mostly been reading more popular things, so I don’t really have an answer for that.”
“Tom Robbins.”
“I would say Terry Tempest Williams or Ellen Meloy. They’re really prominent female nature writers and that’s something I’m kind of interested in.”
Question 3: What is your favorite small business? “All I can think of right now is Take Root [Cafe]. I’ve only been there once, but it was amazing.”
“My optician’s shop up town: New Vision Optical.”
“I worked for a small business once and it was called ABC Pet Training and it was a familyowned dog training business, so I would say that one.”
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The Index
UPCOMING EVENTS
THURSDAY, NOVMBER 7, 2019
SOCCER
WOMEN’S GLVC Tournament vs Bellarmine University at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10
BASKETBALL
MEN’S At GLVC/G-MAC Challenge vs University of Findlay at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At GLVC/G-MAC Challenge vs Cedarville University at 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At Grand Valley State University at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 At Davenport University at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 WOMEN’S At GLIAC/G-MAC/GLVC Conference Challenge vs University of Wisconsin-Parkside at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At GLIAC/G-MAC/GLVC Conference Challenge vs Ursuline College at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10 Vs Augustana University at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16
CROSS COUNTRY
MEN’S, WOMEN’S At NCAA Midwest Regional at University of Southern Indiana at TBA Saturday, Nov. 9
11
SWIMMING
MEN’S At UMSL Tri-Meet 1 vs University of Missouri-St. Louis at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At UMSL Tri-Meet 1 vs Maryville University at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At UMSL Tri-Meet 2 vs UMSL at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At UMSL Tri-Meet 2 vs Maryville at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At Mizzou Invite at TBA Wednesday, Nov. 20 to Friday, Nov. 22 WOMEN’S At UMSL at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At UMSL vs Maryville University at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At UMSL at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At UMSL vs Maryville University at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At Mizzou Invite at TBA Wednesday, Nov. 20 to Friday, Nov. 22
FOOTBALL
At University of Indianapolis at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 At Urbana University at noon Saturday, Nov. 16
VOLLEYBALL
At Lindenwood University at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8 At UMSL at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 Vs McKendree University at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15 Senior Day vs Southern Indiana University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16
FOOTBALL| The football team hopes to continue its winning streak against UIndy Continued from page 14 Salima said the work put in during the off season was a major factor in the team’s success this year. The leadership, provided through the coaching staff and the veteran team members, has also been important for defining and executing the season they want, he said. Nesbitt said the team is confident this season, which is having an effect on gameplay. He said confidence breeds aggression, so the team is playing quick, aggressive ball games. “Throughout the season we’ve been improving every week and taking the steps needed,” Salima said. “That’s attributed to our preparation throughout the week and I think we’re maturing as a unit and you can see that in our field of play.” The team will continue ironing out any growing pains as it changed lineups to accomodate for injuries just a few weeks ago. Nesbitt said the coaching staff is
hitting its stride, pushing the team to constantly improve. Salima said the coaches are providing good guidance and playing to the athletes’ strengths. The Bulldogs compete next against the University of Indianapolis, which is a nationally ranked team with only five conference losses in seven years. However, UIndy lost to Lindenwood University, Truman’s only loss this season, last week. “We’re catching an angry competitor on the road in their last home game,” Nesbitt said. “So we certainly have our work cut out for us.” Although it’s currently a ways away, if Truman wins the next two games it could advance to the National Collegiate Athletics Association for the first time in 25 years. “We’re controlling our own fate right now,” Salima said. “We got a good opponent this week at UIndy, but if we beat them … then our postseason really begins.”
Running back Cody Schrader guards the ball against the McKendree University Bearcats. The Bulldogs won the matchup 45-17. Photos by Kara Mackenzie
Defensive back Zach Nadle attempts to strip the ball from McKendree University. The Bulldogs have a shot at advancing to the NCAA for the first time in 25 years.
The Index
12
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
SEASON STATS MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY Placings 2nd/2, 2nd/15, 6th/11, 1st/8, 9th/14
MEN’S SWIMMING
Score
Overall
Score
29, 47, 171, 21, 245
1-1
80, 128
WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY Placings 1st/2, 1st/11, 4th/11, 1st/6, 9th/14
WOMEN'S SWIMMING
Score
Overall
Score
23, 31, 109, 15, 194
2-0
179.50, 146
MEN’S SOCCER Overall
7-8-2
Conference
Home
Away
FOOTBALL Neutral
6-7-2 4-3-1 3-5-1 0-0-0
Overall Conference Home Away Neutral
8-1
WOMEN'S SOCCER Overall
Conference
Home
Away
5-1
5-0 3-1
0-0
VOLLEYBALL Neutral
10 - 6 - 1 10 - 5 - 0 10 - 1 - 0 3 - 5 - 1 0 - 0 - 0
Overall
11 - 15
Conference Home Away Neutral
4-7
2-3 2-4
7-8
VOLLEYBALL| Bulldogs nearing end of season
Outside hitter Ellie Kaat attempts to put the ball over the net against Rockhurst University. The Bulldogs lost the game 0-3. Photo by Kara Mackenzie
Continued from page 14 The Bulldogs will face the Lions of Lindenwood University on Friday to start their weekend. The Lions come into the game on a five-game losing streak. Lindenwood is 10-13 overall and 1-10 in the GLVC. On Saturday, Truman will hit the road again to take on the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The Tritons enter the game ranked 23rd in the nation and riding a threegame win streak over their GLVC opponents. Gasper said she believes the Bulldogs will need to stick to their identity over the next four games to find success. “I think our team identity relates a lot to determination,” Gasper said. “Our season, in some ways, has not gone the way we’ve wanted, but that hasn’t stopped us from coming into the gym every day and continuing our grind to get better. I have never met a more determined group of teammates who hold each other to high standards and expect the best out of each other every day.” Gasper and the Bulldogs will need to maintain that level of determination in order to make their way into the postseason. Gasper believes that speeding up the team’s play to make its matches more chaotic for opposing teams might be the key to reaching the postseason. The Bulldogs have recently moved to a 6-2 scheme in an effort to switch things up after multiple lineups were unsuccessful. Regardless of what changes are made, the Bulldogs will undoubtedly have to improve their play in order to win their remaining games. Truman will have to finish the season perfect and count on some timely losses by the teams ahead of them in the GLVC standings in order to earn a GLVC Championship tournament bid. While the opportunity to extend its season is fading, the team is confident it has the tools to turn the tides and save its 2019 season.
SOCCER| The men’s team ends its season with a 6-7-2 conference record Continued from page 14 Head coach Duke Cochran said he thinks the Lions weren’t playing their best at the time and the Bulldogs took advantage by staying on them and attacking really well. Cochran said despite Lindenwood scoring, the game showed that Lindenwood was having a tough day and the Bulldogs were having a good one. At the game, the Bulldogs honored seniors Jake Koenig, Zach Vahlkamp, Mateo Montano, Masters and Yankowitz. “I made some good friendships with a lot of good guys,” Yankowitz said about his time playing for the Bulldogs. “I wish more results would have been better, but ultimately the people I met made it worthwhile. It’s sad to leave the team because it’s been all I have known since being a college student and I’m going to miss it.” Overall, the soccer team’s record was 7-8-2 for this season. The team won its last two home games at Truman, but it did not make the Great
Lakes Valley Conference this year. “I’d say for the most part we ended the season really well,” Koenig said. “We started the season well, with a 4-1 record, and then a few key injuries really did a toll on our team’s playing style and morale. Unfortunately, it burdened us enough to keep us out of postseason, however, we ended the season on a high note with two comfortable wins and hopefully that sets the tone moving forward for the guys returning in the spring and next fall.” Cochran said he thinks the team’s season ended on a high note with its two wins at home and beating a team that will be in the GLVC. “Obviously, we always want to be .500 or above and make the conference tournament, but given the circumstances during the year, I think we did very well,” Cochran said. For next season, Cochran said he wants to add to the talent that the young roster already has and continue in the direction the team has been heading.
Forward Collin McDonough dribbles the ball away from University of Missouri-St. Louis players. The men’s team will not see any play in the postseason. Photo by Kara Mackenzie
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
The Index
13
ATHLETE o f
t h e
w e e k
With 11 points so far this season, midfielder Hanna Burke has been an asset to the women’s soccer team. Burke scored one of two goals against Lindenwood University on Sunday, helping the Bulldogs secure their place in the Great Lakes Valley Conference quarterfinals. Burke was also instrumental in the face off against the University of Missouri-St. Louis on Friday, scoring the tie-breaking goal with a corner kick in the 85th minute.
Hanna Burke
Women’s soccer secures fourth seed in GLVC quarterfinals
Above: Forward Maggie Beem protects the ball against players from Lindenwood University. With the win against the Lions, the Bulldogs secured their place in the GLVC quarterfinals.
The women’s soccer team celebrates in a game against the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The Bulldogs won the game 2-1. Photos by Kara Mackenzie
Left: Defender Isabel Kurzban takes the ball down the field in Sunday’s game against Lindenwood University. The ’Dogs beat the Lions 2-1, bringing their conference record to 10-5.
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14
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2019
BULLDOGS RUN AWAY WITH EIGHTH WIN
RYAN PIVONEY Editor-in-Chief The football team continued its winning streak last Saturday after beating the McKendree University Bearcats 45-17. This is the first time the football team has pulled off a perfect home schedule since 1994. The Bulldogs brought their overall record to 8-1 and their conference record to 5-1 with the win on Senior Day, which puts them at No. 2 in the conference. Truman State University beat McKendree six of the last eight times the two teams competed against each other — most recently edging out the Bearcats 17-14 in 2017. Head coach Gregg Nesbitt said that while the team has been excellent all year, the matchup against McKendree was one of the best performances for all three phases he has seen in his 10 years as head coach. “We really played well,” Nesbitt said. “Offensively, really executing at a high level consistently. Defensively, we were rock solid last Saturday, particularly against the run.” Nesbitt said quarterback Jaden Barr has had a great career overall, but has been performing at the top of his game for the last month. He said Barr has been making smart quarterback decisions by getting the guys into the right place, making the team more successful.
Running back Jordan Salima scored three touchdowns against McKendree last Saturday. He said the Bulldog offense was able to control the ball and the team’s play execution was where it needed to be. Nesbitt said the Bulldogs’ kicking game has consistently been the best part of the team all season. Statistically, McKendree has been more successful in that area, Nesbitt said, but Truman rose to the challenge. “It’s been an excellent season,” Nesbitt said. “It’s a really good group of seniors. Coming off of Senior Day last week, I’ve been putting together some numbers and last week was their 27th win in the last four years, which puts them in the top 12 of a school with a rich, storied football tradition and over 110 seasons of football. So, they’re getting into rare company.” Nesbitt pointed to the team’s success off the field as well, noting that the Bulldogs have had few problems off the field. This group of seniors has won four
“It’s
a unique mix of veteran and truly green rookies.”
consecutive Great Lakes Valley Conference sportsmanship trophies and led the league in Academic AllConference athletes. Nesbitt said the graduating group’s leave hopefully won’t have a negative impact on the team next season because of the variety of experience on the field. He explained the challenge of keeping the consistency and success from one season to the next is what makes coaching fun. “This is an eclectic group,” Nesbitt said. “We got a fantastic group of veterans … we got 10 true freshmen that are also playing — that’s unusual. You got another 20 plus that were redshirting, but it’s a unique mix of veteran and truly green rookies.” The starting lineup has a number of freshmen, Nesbitt explained, so he thinks the University has recruited well this year. He said he hopes the younger players will continue to develop throughout their time at Truman. Salima also said this team is a good mix of old and new ’Dogs, but the players hold each other accountable for putting in the work.
-Gregg Nesbitt, head football coach He said the team’s chemistry has been crucial throughout the season for making the team successful. Nesbitt said he credits a lot of the ’Dogs’ continuing success to their triumphant start to the season. He points to Truman’s win over Drake University on the road to open the season and then return home to beat Wayne State University for putting the team in the right headspace. “Your early season success really propels you to thinking you’re good, which is half the battle,” Nesbitt said. Nesbitt said the culture on the team keeps the players motivated and working hard.
See FOOTBALL page 12
Men’s soccer ends its season with wins ERICA SCHAMEL Staff Writer The men’s soccer team beat Lindenwood University 3-1 at Truman Bulldog Park, officially ending its season last Sunday. Forward and midfielder Matt Yankowitz scored on a penalty shot in the 26th minute of the first half. Shortly after, the Lions tried to score on the Bulldogs but were not successful, as goalkeeper Julian Echeverri stopped the shot. The first half ended with Truman State University up 1-0. Six minutes into the second half Lindenwood came back and tied the score 1-1. Forward Jeff Masters scored a goal in the 62nd minute, putting Truman back in the lead 2-1. The Bulldogs got their third goal when midfielder Andrew Brennan’s cross bounced off the foot of a Lion’s player, resulting in the ball going into the Lion’s net and making the score 3-1. “The game went well,” Yankowitz said. “We won 3-1 against a good Lindenwood. Two seniors scored on the last game. I got my 20th college goal, so that was cool.” Truman had 13 shots in total and six shots on goal for the whole game. The team also completed the game with 22 fouls and four saves. See SOCCER page 12
Defender Zach Vahlkamp kicks the ball in a game against the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The Bulldogs won the game 1-0. Photo by Kara Mackenzie
Volleyball tries to save its season CHASE POTTER Staff Writer
With only four games remaining in its 2019 schedule, the women’s volleyball team finds itself on the outside looking in on the Great Lakes Valley Conference playoffs. This will likely be the first time since 2015 the Bulldogs will not qualify for the postseason. After splitting their matches over the weekend with a 3-2 match victory over William Jewell College and a 0-3 loss to Rockhurst University, the Bulldogs now sit at 11-15 overall and 4-7 in conference. If the Bulldogs are unable to win this weekend, this will be the first time in a decade they did not finish at .500 or above. Despite the adversity, defensive specialist Meg Gasper is confident in the team. “I think we all just need to rally behind each other and have the ‘leave it all on the court’ mentality these last matches,” Gasper said. “Being able to approach these next matches knowing that will really amp up our team and push us to go out competing all of the time.” See VOLLEYBALL page 12
Photos by Kara Mackenzie VOLUME 111
ISSUE 9
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