The Index Vol. 111 Issue 11 by Truman State University Index

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Truman State University tmn.truman.edu THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

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ResLife STUDENTS FACE moves forward DIFFICULTIES WITH U&I with changes MATT FRANK Staff Writer

Truman State University’s Residence Life has been implementing a new curriculum this semester that has more structure to try to enhance the resident experience. This curriculum is a step away from the old model of ResLife that had goals set out for a semester as a whole and left the implementation of these goals up to student advisers. ResLife has specific ideas and goals it wants to express to residents, and these will now be shared throughout all of the residence halls at the same time instead of being at the discretion of the student advisers. “There’s a movement within residence life across the nation to examine how we interact with residents and how we develop the kind of experiences and learning that we want to see all students having while they’re living in the residence halls,” Zac Burden, coordinator for Residence Life, said. See RESLIFE page 6

Students looking to start a campus organization must go through Union and Involvement Services. The U&I was formerly known as the Center for Student Involvement. Photo by Daniel Degenhardt

Creating an organization might be more difficult than anticipated ORIELLE HEILICHER Contributing Writer Some Truman State University students have found starting an on-campus organization to be more difficult than anticipated, posing problems for students who wish to start organizations. The Union and Involvement Services, formerly known as the Center for Student Involvement, is in charge of approving organizations and maintaining the University’s organizational chartering process. Last year, 14 organizations

applied to become official campus organizations and nine were accepted. This semester, seven organizations have applied and are currently going through the hearing and/or chartering processes. The process to become an organization requires filling out an initial application for the proposed organization and once approved, the organization must go through a hearing with members of the organizational development team, which will lead to an approved organization in the chartering status. While in the chartering status, which takes approxi-

mately three weeks, the organization must create a constitution, turn in several pieces of paperwork and meet with the organization’s liaison to be placed under provisional status. After 16 successful weeks under provisional status, the organization will be recommended by its liaison to be a fully accepted, chartered organization or advised to make further changes to its mission or paperwork. In an effort to start a vegetarian and vegan club on campus, Jimmy Clemens said he faced multiple issues. U&I denied the veggie club because

its mission of vegetarian and vegan advocacy was thought to pose a health risk to students, Clemens said. “The mission that our group was trying to do would be posing too much of a health risk on other students and for that reason, they turned us down,” Clemens said. Clemens said the veggie club was told during their hearing that recommending a change in lifestyle or diet without a certified nutritionist was out of the realm of what an organization could do. See U&I page 3

Local food truck hits the streets Composting program GABBY TWEHUS Contributing Writer Inspired by a creek close to his home, local business owner Aaron Zentz decided to call his newly opened food truck Hog Creek Classics. Kirksville has the highest number of employment in Adair County. Along with bigger businesses, it is home to many locally owned stores and restaurants. Hog Creek Classics is a local food truck that opened this summer and is owned

and operated by Zentz. During operation days, which are scheduled around his fulltime job, it is located in the Xpress Mart parking lot at the corner of East Jefferson Street and North Baltimore Street. Hog Creek Classics has a variety of food on its menu, ranging from pulled pork sandwiches to scoops of egg-free cookie dough. Zentz said his idea to open a food truck came to fruition last winter. He said he didn’t do a lot of prior research about the need for a food

Hog Creek Classics is a local food truck owned and operated by Aaron Zentz. The truck serves a variety of food from pulled pork sandwiches to cookie dough. Photo by Gabby Twehus

truck in the community but still sees a good amount of traffic. “During [the] weekday, lunch hours are pretty busy,” Zentz said. “I don’t necessarily count customers.” Anastasia Tiedemann, small business counselor at Missouri Rural Enterprise and Innovation Center, said Kirksville has a variety of restaurants, while some of the surrounding areas don’t have many options. There isn’t a lot of local competition for this type of business, so as long as a person is creative and has a good marketing strategy, they have potential to be successful, Tiedemann said. To start, Zentz first purchased a trailer, remodeled it and then went through the state licensing process. To stay in business, he follows health and city codes. Missouri has laws that are favorable for people who are looking to start a business, Tiedemann said, and the process is inexpensive and can be done online. There is a 20% chance of a business failing during the first year of operation, a 50% over five years and 70% over ten years, Tiedemann explained. See FOOD TRUCK page 3

looking to the future RACHEL BECKER, JOSIE WAGNER News, Photo Editor and Staff Writer By next spring, the Truman State University Compost Project hopes to be able to sell its compost to maintain its equipment and fund the student interns working on the project. Michael Seipel, agricultural science department chair and faculty adviser for the Compost Project, has applied for a sabbatical for the fall 2020 semester to focus on how to further improve the composting program. Two farm workers pick up

bins from the dining halls, the Student Union Building, Randolph Apartments and the Communiversity Garden and take it to the Truman State University Farm. There the compost is mixed with horse manure, sawdust and straw. An aerator mixes the material to introduce oxygen, and then the composting process begins. There is also a public bin by the Communiversity Garden where the public can drop off their household food composting. Food items like chopped veggies, leftover rice, compostable dining ware and napkins are all composted. See COMPOST page 5

Food waste from dining halls

142,000 lbs.

weight of space shuttle

The Index

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Books, sweat and tears

Above: Senior Sam Bostick and juniors Mikaela Szwargulski and Maddie Krohn work on the second floor of Pickler Memorial Library. The library will be open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Monday through Thursday during finals week, and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. Photos by Bidan Yang Right: Students study on the first floor of the library. Finals week begins Monday, Dec. 9 and continues through Friday, Dec. 13.

Left: Sophomore Carrie Derner studies on a laptop at a desk. There are designated quiet areas on the third floor of the library, such as the Presidential Reading Room. Right: Junior Malathi Rivi and junior Dustin Bax work on laptops on the second floor of the library. The library will be closed from Dec. 21-29 for winter break. CORRECTION: A headline and paragraph appearing in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;News in Briefâ&#x20AC;? section on page 5 of the Nov. 21 edition of The Index incorrectly states that the Department of Public Safety recently hired Slater Kelley as a new officer. Kelley was recently hired by Kirksville Police Department.

Crime Reports staff Serving the University community since 1909 Editor-in-Chief: Ryan Pivoney Managing Editor: Elisabeth Shirk News Editor: Rachel Becker Sports Editor: Chase Potter Features, Opinions Editor: Erica Lindsay Copy Chief: Cara Quinn Design Chief: Emmett Divendal Photo Editor: Rachel Becker Designers: Jake Bertish Cartoonist: Samuel Sardis Photographers: Caleb Bolin, Kara Mackenzie, Daniel Degenhardt, Bidan Yang, Emily Johnson, Mary Van Winkle Copy Editors: Kayla Lewis, Luke Jacobi, Emile Hummel, Jessica Robinson, Maddie Lee, Sami Harris, Natalie Wilson, Autumn Dodd-Hinds Staff Writers: Gordon McPherson, Allison Maschhoff, Brittany Conley, Erica Schamel, Matthew Frank, Josie Wagner Adviser: Don Krause

DPS & KPD 11/28 Public intoxication reported at the 900 block of East LaHarpe St.

11/30 Drug possession reported at the 300 block of East Porter St.

11/28 Theft of motor fuel reported at the 1000 block of North Osteopathy St.

11/30 Burglary reported at the 1200 block of South Lewis St.

11/28 Possession of meth, robbery and battery reported at Devlin Pl. 11/28 Fourth degree domestic assault reported at Meadow Ln. 11/28 Burglary reported at the 1400 block of South Orchard St. 11/29 Peace disturbance reported at the 1900 block of North Osteopathy St. 11/29 Theft reported at the 100 block of Valley Forge Dr. 11/30 Enticement of a child, second degree sexual misconduct reported at the 1900 block of North Osteopathy St. 11/30 Second degree property damage reported at the 1600 block of South Osteopathy St. 11/30 Second degree burglary reported at the 400 block of South Halliburton St. 11/30 Second degree burglary reported at the 800 block of East Patterson St.

12/1 Second degree burglary, stealing, second degree property damage reported at the 500 block of East Pierce St. 12/1 Theft reported at the 700 block of East Normal St. 12/1 Burglary reported at the 500 block of South Elson St. 12/1 Burglary and property damage reported at the 1000 block of South Halliburton St. 12/1 Stealing a motor vehicle, second degree assault of special victim, resisting arrest, out of control juvenile reported at Cottonwood St. 12/2 Second degree vehicle damage reported at the 2100 block of North Baltimore St.

12/2 Shoplifter reported at the 2200 block of North Baltimore St. 12/2 Possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting arrest reported at the 100 block of West Washington St.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

The Index

U&I| U&I has received complaints about its new organization process in the past Continued from page 1 There are many clubs and organizations on campus that advocate lifestyle changes for students, Clemens said. Clemens said he thought it was unfair to deny his organization for its mission statement, but allow others to operate that are also advocating changes that could hypothetically cause health or physical risks, such as the Environmental Campus Organization. “I definitely understood where the University was coming from and I felt they had every right because yeah, we were advocating a change for diet,” Clemens said. “However, there were still other groups doing similar changes, so I still thought they were reasonable but definitely unfair.” Clemens said he knew of many other students that tried to start organizations on campus but failed to be accepted for various reasons. A friend of Clemens attempted to start a “figure out your major” club, which got denied because of University academic advisers being the main resource for those services, Clemens said. The Roundnet Club is a new effort on campus by Zac Dwyer and his friends to play Spikeball with

other groups of people. “To play a game, you have to have four people and it’s not the easiest to always find four people whenever you want to, so that was a big reason why we started,” Dwyer said. Overall, Dwyer found that while U&I were helpful in times of need, the process to become an organization took a long time and also required a lot of paperwork. “I heard when I came here for visit day. They said it was super easy to start an organization, and I don’t know if it’s super easy,” Dwyer said. “There is a whole lot more paperwork that has to go through like you have to write up a whole constitution … it just takes a little bit.” U&I has received complaints in the past on the process of starting a new student organization, Laura Bates, director of the student union and campus activities, said. Bates said no process is perfect and the U&I is constantly looking to improve its services. Bates said the U&I never discriminates or denies an organization based on personal opinion but looks at how prepared the organization is and its steps to mitigate risk.

“Similar to First Amendment free speech, we don’t judge on content. We’re looking at other things,” Bates said. “Just because we accept someone for chartering doesn’t mean necessarily that we as individual people respond to those ideals, but it doesn’t mean that they should not be able to be represented in the community.” Savanna Ott, a member of the U&I organizational development team, said there are two main reasons an organization can be denied: being unprepared and not having thought out the sustainability of their organization, and not establishing the overall effectiveness of the organization. Ott said clubs might also be denied if they think that a similar organization or club already exists on campus. U&I encourages the proposed club to work with the already existing organization. “We don’t place a restriction on [the number of organizations] in any way shape or form,” Bates said. “Now, we are conscious of [the] people power that we have in order to work with groups, but ultimately if the chartering group and hearing board believe they should move forward, then it’s accepted.”

FOOD TRUCK| Local resident opens food truck, adds to small businesses in Kirksville Continued from page 1 She said for businesses to stay in operation, they need to find out how to stay at the peak of success, which can be accomplished through strategies such as targeting new audiences or creating a new product. Thinking about a succession plan for a business is vital, Tiedemann said, which includes selling the business or passing it on to a family member. This heavily applies to small, rural towns because these businesses might be fulfilling needs, she said, and if they close, those needs are no longer being met. Hog Creek Classics impacts the community because of the variety of food it brings, Zentz said.

“I think it gives people an option every once in a while,” Zentz said. “It’s a little something different to try out.” Mary Hodges, a Hog Creek Classics customer, said this food truck differs from standard brick and mortar restaurants. “I feel like I’m getting the same quality of food as if I went in and sat down at a restaurant, but it’s so much faster,” Hodges said. “As far as a fresh, non-fast food option, it seems like a good option for me.” As a consumer, Hodges said she looks for taste, affordability and convenience in a restaurant. “We all live very busy lives and if it’s not convenient, it doesn’t matter — I can’t do it,” Hodges said.

Left: The Hog Creek Classics food truck opened last summer. The truck is usually stationed in the Xpress Mart parking lot on days it is open. Right: With its diverse menu, Hog Creek Classics has an impact on small business in Kirksville. The food truck model also provides a different option compared to standard brick and mortar restaurants. Photos by Gabby Twehus

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Stu Gov

Buzz

Major changes should be gradual With the recent changes in Residence Life occurring this year, there has been a lot to report. In addition to a new ResLife director and three new hall directors, the department is undergoing sweeping curriculum changes. The changes are intended to provide a more uniform campus living experience across the halls and communities, as well as provide a more solid way to express its core values. ResLife wants to promote connection, wellness, identity, professional competence and academic excellence within the residence halls with this new curriculum, Zac Burden, coordinator for Residence Life, said. Some aspects of the new curriculum — such as connection and wellness — have already been implemented into the activities and bulletin boards organized by student advisers. We, The Index Editorial Board, are concerned about the amount of changes and how quickly they’re happening. Within just a few months, most of the top positions in ResLife have been turned over. While that’s not necessarily a problem, the situation has become even more complicated with the major changes to the ResLife system. We are also concerned with the sustainability of this new curriculum. We question how responsibilities will be distributed among ResLife staff, what is expected of future student advisers and if the future staff will be set up for success. Despite the delayed rollout of the new curriculum, these changes still seem rushed and sudden. With fewer hall directors than previous years, it does not seem like an opportune time to make sweeping changes to the ResLife structure. We also believe that it is important for students to understand the changes happening in living facilities on campus, which means ResLife staff should be keeping residents informed of the changes. Many Truman State University students call the residence halls home, so they should constantly be in the loop about what is happening around them. Even if you don’t live on campus, it’s important to understand such a significant part of campus and the resources it offers. While we appreciate the motivation and enthusiasm to improve, such drastic changes should be gradual and carefully considered before being implemented.

A few reminders before break

The end of the fall 2019 semester is upon us, and it feels like it has flown by. It seems like just yesterday that orientation and the Activities Fair were happening and everyone was settling into college life. I hope you all have had a great semester, and if it has not lived up to your expectations, then remember that next semester is a new page in life and it will be a good one. We are not quite at the end yet, unfortunately. Projects and finals are upon us. Make sure to hydrate and eat properly. Also, remember that studying ahead and not cramming is the way to go. If you are feeling overwhelmed then take a break. Take some time to relax. Studying while feeling overwhelmed is a recipe for disaster. If you really do not have time then talk to your professors. They are actual, genuine people, and if you talk to them about what is going on, they will do what they can to help. Remember that they cannot do anything if they do not know what is going on in your life. Beyond that, we wish you luck and success in the last days of your semester. Finishing a semester is a relief that washes over the student body when school is ending. Be sure to check the weather if you are going home, and make plans to get home safely, even if it means staying an extra day. Be sure you did not leave anything and that you lock up behind you. For those staying in town, do not simply stay inside curled up by the fire with a book and some coffee, though be sure to do that too. Make sure to enjoy the things in Kirksville you do not normally get to do during the school year. Make sure to stay warm, be safe and have a wonderful winter break. Also, if you ever get a parking ticket, especially while at the beginning or end of break, you have the option of appealing your ticket. On the Truman State University Student Government’s website (senate.truman.edu), there is a link under the services tab to the parking appeal form. Filling out this form does not guarantee an appeal, as nothing in life is guaranteed, but as Yoda says, “Do or do not. There is no try.”

SUBMITTED BY: Adam Paris Parking Appeals Committee Chair

Learning from Truman, Lovely day for football moving forward SAMUEL SARDIS Cartoonist

TRAVIS MAIDEN Former Staff Writer Just yesterday I felt the heavy pressure of Truman State University perch on my shoulders. Every day was a weighted trudge from class to class. From the short treks to Violette Hall to the long ventures to Barnett Hall, I pushed on. For what it’s worth, I grew stronger, as we all did. Rolling along I learned and grew more as a person. Every day was its own struggle to triumph, yesterday was another lesson. Each memory I’ve made is precious. Previously, I was a young man with social issues. Standing here now I can happily say Truman helped me grow up. Through each and every trial Truman has tossed my way, I attacked it all. Even through all the stress, finances and personal matters. I made it. Now I have to say goodbye. Don’t let anyone steer you. I let people do that my whole life. Doing things others want you to accomplish leads to anguish and harsh expectations. Now you can choose. Today is the only time. Kindle the fire of your imagination. Invigorate yourself with curiosity. Love one another. Let yourself be happy and find the strength to move on. However much time it might take, we can make it. I, unfortunately, am looking at the end of my own time at the University. My only regret lies in what I didn’t do rather than the choices I made. So, I wish you all the best with these brief messages. Every second is precious. Love yourself as you would your partner. Finally, seek the strength to forgive those around you and yourself.

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 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 subeditor. 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.

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The Index

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER 7-9 P.M. DEC. 6-8 CURTAIN CALL THEATRE This Curtain Call Theatre production involves some dastardly children wreaking havoc on a church Christmas pageant. General admission tickets are $15. Tickets for children 12 years old or younger are $5. Tickets are available at both the Hy-Vee service desk and the door of the theatre.

07 DECEMBER

news in brief

PHOTOS WITH SANTA CLAUS 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. ORSCHELN FARM AND HOME

Giving Tuesday supports University funds In honor of Giving Tuesday Dec. 3, Truman State University’s Office of Advancement spotlighted three funds that exemplify the impact a gift can have on a Truman student. The Investing in Students Fund supports students with financial hardship during their path to graduation. Truman has partnered with the Pantry for Adair County to address food insecurity among Truman students. Lastly, Truman alumna Jenna Fischer offered a 2:1 match for the Ronald M. Rybkowski Honorary Technical Theatre Scholarship. The Truman State University Foundation accepted gifts of any amount to any scholarship.

NEMO Search & Rescue and Field of Dreams Rescue are sponsoring this annual event where kids, adults, families and pets can get their photos taken with Santa Claus. Attendees can also meet and pet actual search and rescue dogs. Puppies and kittens will also be available to play with and adopt courtesy of Field of Dreams Rescue. All proceeds benefit NEMO Search and Rescue and Field of Dreams Rescue. A $5 donation is required.

City Council in brief

KIRKSVILLE KIWANIS CHRISTMAS PARADE 5-5:30 P.M. FRANKLIN STREET, DOWNTOWN KIRKSVILLE The Kiwanis Club of Kirksville is hosting its eighth annual Christmas parade. The theme will be “Flannel and Frost.” Rather than pay an entry fee, participants can donate children’s winter apparel.

DECEMBER

07 DECEMBER

FINALS WEEK DEC. 9-13 Finals for classes at Truman State University begin Dec. 9 and continue through Dec. 13. Reading Day is Dec. 11.

DECEMBER

COMMENCEMENT 11 A.M. PERSHING ARENA The Truman State University December Commencement Ceremony will take place in Pershing Arena. Tickets are not necessary. The commencement speaker is Truman alumna Sharron Sue (Grogan-Bailey) Quisenberry.

14 DECEMBER

Custodian recognized by City Council The Kirksville City Council recognized custodian John Lorey on his retirement. He has been a custodian for 10 years and four months. Lorey was hired August of 2009, where he provided custodial services to the Kirksville City Hall, the Kirksville Police Department and the Kirksville Fire Department. He was recognized for working well with co-workers and having a perfect attendance record from August 2009 to May 2019. Nancy Reed Fugate Trust Fund disbanded Nancy Fugate, who passed away in 1937, donated funds to the City of Kirksville specifically as relief to the poor and distressed. The City had the option of either gifting the interest from the trust to a local charity or establishing a separate board made up of five women who would determine how the interest proceeds would be spent. In May of 1956, the Kirksville City Council chose to establish the Nancy Reed Fugate Trust, and since has received support from numerous citizens who have served. The City Council chose to honor the current members’ request to donate the proceeds directly to a worthy organization, thereby eliminating the Nancy Reed Fugate Trust. The City Council expressed its thanks to all past and current members of the committee.

Faculty Senate in brief President’s report Truman State University President Sue Thomas gave an update on the SME Investment, LLC marketing rebranding effort. SME stepped aside to help with the University’s social media presence for incoming students, but they are now back to focusing on the rebranding effort. They have tested taglines with focus groups and there was a problem with one of the words, so they have now fixed it and will return Dec. 2 for more focus group testing on potential taglines and logos. By March 1, the company will reveal to the entire campus what they have come up with. Purple and white will remain the school colors and Spike will remain the mascot.

COMPOST| The Compost Project collected 142,000 pounds of waste from dining halls last year Continued from page 1 “The vast majority of what we get comes from dining halls,” Seipel said. “Each of the dining halls has a pulper in the kitchen, and so when students return trays to the tray return, napkins [and] food waste go into that pulper, and it basically chops the material up and spins it to remove as much of the water as possible and then that gets put into a bin and that bin gets picked up.” Seipel said 142,000 pounds of waste were picked up from the dining halls during the 2018-19 school year, which is approximately equal to the weight of a space shuttle. Ryle Hall feeds the largest number of students and has the most food waste as a result, Seipel said. “A lot of times we are finding a lot of the volume [of food waste] comes from those partially eaten dishes at the end of the meal that cannot be saved,” Seipel said. Stewart said that Sodexo only allows students to take the one entree at a time to control food waste. He said people tend to eat with their eyes and not their stomachs. One of the tools utilized by the composting program is the pulper. “What [the pulper] does as opposed

to a garbage disposal is it grinds the food and separates the water waste, and then the water is recirculated and in turn, we are saving some water down the line, ”Sodexo General Manager John Stewart said. Stewart said Sodexo has a concern for food waste alongside the consumption issues and financial costs that come with it. Sodexo has a 2025 goal to reduce its carbon footprint and to reduce energy and food waste. “We do put forth great efforts when it comes to food waste,” Stewart said. “It is an initial cost we try to avoid to keep meal plans as low as they are.” The Student Union Building does not have the same pulper and composting processes as the dining halls yet, Stewart said, but it does have compost buckets where Sodexo salvages food waste for compost. Sodexo plans to add more composting provisions when they do a remodel of the SUB in the future, Stewart said. Until then, some food waste goes down the disposal but not much, Stewart said. Sodexo tries to utilize the tubs as much as they can, Stewart said. Funds from the Environmental Sustainability Fee went to purchase a

How Truman Composts 1

4 Steps

Workers pick up bins from the dining halls, SUB, Randolph apartments and University garden and take the food waste to the University Farm.

2 At the farm, the compost is mixed with horse manure, sawdust and straw.

3 An aerator mixes oxygen into the material, and then the composting process begins.

4 The compost then goes through a screener, which removes any larger

chunks of dirt or silverware and plates that could end up in the food scraps.

screener, Seipel said, which will allow the University Farm to take the finished compost and screen out any larger chunks of dirt or even things like silverware and plates that could end up in the food scraps. This results in a product that can be used in potting mixes or applied to gardens and lawns. “The composting process is very important,” Seipel said. “It keeps the

waste out of the landfill, but even more important is trying to reduce food waste to begin with. Just because we are composting doesn’t mean students shouldn’t care about the food they are wasting. There was still energy, labor, water that went into producing that food and we all need to be careful on our shopping [and consuming] habits.”

The University Farm utilizes compost for its planting operations. Compost materials come from a variety of areas, including dining halls and the Student Union Building. Photo by Rachel Becker

The Index

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

“The Arts are a Part of it”

Women’s and Gender Studies Conference set for 2020 ELISABETH SHIRK Managing Editor

Planning for the 2020 Women’s and Gender Studies Conference is underway with the conference set for Saturday, Feb. 22. The theme for the conference is “The Arts are a Part of it: Representation as Inquiry and Reimagination,” and the WGST program will be partnering with the Truman State University Art Gallery to host photographer Jess Dugan as the keynote speaker. Dugan’s photography will be on display in the gallery during the conference. The deadline for papers was Dec. 1 to ensure adequate time to organize the conference. “If you submit, we are hoping you will get to present,” conference planner Caroline Lesch said. Lesch said if the conference planners receive more submissions than expected, then the conference could be

extended to include Friday, Feb. 21. The conference planners are not highly selective when it comes to the papers and presentations because they want the conference to be open and accepting to as many people as possible, Lesch explained. “I want to make sure that students who do care about women’s issues, who do care about gender issues are getting the chance to share what they’ve learned because this is really one of the only ways on campus that they can do that,” Lesch said. Students were not the only ones who could submit papers. Among those who have applied to present is English professor Sara Day. Day said she has been involved in the conference — either as a presenter or an attendee — since her arrival to Truman in 2016. “Participating in it as a presenter was really fantastic because we got great

questions,” Day said. “We got to take part in a panel with other people’s work, so [we] heard other students’ work being presented.” As an audience member, Day said she enjoys the variety of materials presented at the WGST conferences. The majority of conferences she attends have only graduate students and professors who present, she said, so hearing undergraduate research is interesting because she is able to learn about topics she doesn’t often encounter in her own research and teaching. “In terms of women and gender studies as areas of research, I think conferences like this are hugely important to demonstrate the scope of possibilities that these fields encompass and to simultaneously think about what kind of work has been done and what kind of directions can the work be taken in the future,” Day said.

Conference planner Caroline Lesch presented at the Women’s and Gender Studies Conference last year. The deadline for papers was Dec. 1. Submitted photo

RESLIFE| A new curriculum is being implemented over the next year Continued from page 1 “A lot of universities have been looking into this as a more successful way for there to be value in a residence life experience.” ResLife has identified five core values that it wants to express through the curriculum, which are connection, wellness, identity, professional competence and academic excellence. Of those five, only the first two, connection and wellness, have been implemented so far, and the other three values will be implemented next year. The connection aspect has

been seen through several student advisers taking their residents to activities around campus together, and wellness can be seen in the sleep hygiene bulletin boards put up in all of the residence halls. The reason the entire curriculum is not being implemented all at once and is instead beginning in phases is to allow ResLife to reflect on what it has done and make changes if necessary, Burden said. In May and June 2020, hall directors and ResLife members involved with the curriculum will discuss what they want

to see in the curriculum next year. Residents will be surveyed later in the process of implementing the curriculum to measure its success. The majority of the hall directors are new to their positions at Truman, but Stephanie Dunton, Centennial Hall director, said the transition has been warm and exciting. While the hall directors are new, they have experience from their time in college, as well as the training provided from ResLife. “In some ways our implementation has been hin-

dered by having staff turnover, but we will be in a better spot in spring when we have more consistency,” Jamie Van Boxel, director of Residence Life, said. “Next year we will have both consistency as well as experience with our staff.” ResLife has gotten their ideas for the curriculum through research that has been done at the University of Delaware and the Institute on the Curricular Approach, Burden said. The ICA hosts a yearly conference that connects those who have already implemented the curricu-

lar model with those who are thinking of or just beginning to implement it. The ideas that have been learned from these sources came together through the University Assessment Committee, which is comprised of members of ResLife, to create Truman’s ResLife curriculum. The hope is that this curriculum will create a more engaged experience for the students who live in the residence halls.

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We’ll be back! Thursday, Jan. 23, 2020 Don’t miss an issue: Issue 12 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, Jan. 23 Issue 13 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, Jan. 30 Issue 14 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, Feb. 13 Issue 15 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, Feb. 20 Issue 16 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, March 5 Issue 17 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, March 26 Issue 18 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, April 2 Issue 19 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, April 9 Issue 20 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, April 23 Issue 21 .......................................................................................................................... Thursday, April 30

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life

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Homemade

for the holidays ERICA LINDSAY Features, Opinions Editor

he holidays are a time to celebrate, show thanks and indulge. What better way to blend all three than whipping up some tasty creations to share and enjoy? Whether a quick bite or large feast, sweets are a delicacy during bitter, cold months. With these simple recipes, the season of cheer is sure to be savored well past winter.

Peppermint and White Chocolate Truffles Ingredients • 4 ounces softened cream cheese • 1 cup powdered sugar • 1 1/4 cup white chocolate chips • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract • 1/3 cup crushed candy canes

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Directions: 1. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. 2. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring in between until liquified. 3. Add white chocolate and peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture and whisk until smooth. 4. Cover and refrigerate until firm. 5. Use a scoop to measure out chocolate. Roll it in between your hands into a smooth ball, then roll it in a bowl of crushed candy canes.* *Protip: Roll in candy canes the day you plan to serve them or else the candy layer will get sticky from absorbing moisture in the chocolate.

Directions: 1. Stir sugar and cocoa powder together with a food processor or spoon until well-mixed. 2. Add salt, cornstarch and cayenne. Mix thoroughly. 3. Combine powdered milk. 4. Evenly distribute chocolate chips within the mixture. 5. Store in airtight container.

Ingredients: • 2 cups powdered sugar • 1 cup cocoa powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

To amp up your hot chocolate game:

• 1 pinch cayenne pepper • 3 cups dry milk powder • 1 cup chocolate chips

To make one mug:

• Top with marshmallows or whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon, shaved chocolate or crushed peppermints. • For a mocha drink, add a shot of espresso before the hot water or milk. • For spiced cocoa, add 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice seasoning.

Fill 1/3 to 1/2 of a mug with cocoa mix. Add hot water or milk and stir until mix is dissolved.

VOLUME 111

ISSUE 11

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TOP

[5]

HOLIDAY COOKIES

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

3. Thumbprint cookies

The only thing better than a cookie around the holidays is one filled with jam. Apricot, cranberry, even peanut butter and jelly — pair your favorite spread with a shortbread cookie to try a fully customized cookie eating experience. When it comes to festive confections, these pastries get two thumbs up.

Erica Lindsay, cookie connoisseur

1. Snowball cookies

4. Gingerbread cookies

2. Peanut butter blossoms

5. Sugar cookies

These beautiful blobs of powdered sugar and pecans provide a perfect blend of sweet, savory and succulent. I go nuts every time that floury goodness appears on a dessert buffet. Don’t let this hot take melt your expectations, but the snowball is a force to be reckoned with. Throw one in your face and enjoy its crumbly deliciousness.

What’s more rewarding than building an edible masterpiece? Spice up your holiday cooking by designing structures of dewdrops and icing, complete with gingerbread people. These tasty creations allow you to have your bake and eat it too.

As a big cookie fan and an even bigger peanut butter fanatic, I’m a firm believer in their combination. Though not solely a winter delicacy, these pieces of nutty delight are especially scrumptious alongside seasonal hot chocolate and even eggnog. Plop Hershey’s Kisses on top for a mesmerizing mix that will be sure to put your taste buds in full bloom.

Considering all cookies are made from sugar, this element might not seem to bring much to the sweets table. But sometimes simplicity is key — especially around hectic holidays. The natural elegance of this cookie classic lets you beautify if inspired and forgo decoration when feeling lazy. Whether they feature assorted shapes, are plain or covered in frosting, these goodies are delectable regardless.

“Queen & Slim” is a heartbreaking masterpiece

This movie gets 5/5 raised fists.

GORDON MCPHERSON Staff Writer Americans gunned down by police on a seemingly regular basis. A tribute to the kindness of strangers in unlikely circumstances. A passionate love story between two individuals victimized by authority figures. A harsh reminder of how heroism is steeped in moral ambiguity. “Queen & Slim” is all of these and more, solidifying itself as an intensely relevant meditation on the times we live in — and one of the absolute best films of 2019 so far. The film begins with a mismatched Tinder date gone horribly awry. Slim, played by Daniel Kaluuya, is a calm, collected everyman who works at Costco. Queen, played by Jodie Turner-Smith in her feature film debut, is a criminal defense lawyer who recently lost a client to the death penalty. On their drive back from an awkward first date, they are pulled over by an aggressive, downright racist cop. While Slim initially complies with the cop’s unnecessary demands, the situation quickly escalates, leading to Slim shooting the cop in self-defense. The

rest of the film follows Queen and Slim as they navigate the repercussions of the incident, fleeing from Ohio to the Deep South and into the hearts and minds of people across the world. Directed by Melina Matsoukas and written by Lena Waithe of “Master of None” fame, “Queen & Slim” left me deeply affected by the end credits. The film is a true emotional rollercoaster, containing heart, humor, suspense, tragedy and thought-provoking themes tying everything together. In other words, the film is deeply, unquestionably human — an absolutely essential watch. Queen and Slim are full-bodied characters, each processing their situation in different ways but eventually finding solace in each other.

As their situation becomes more dire, their bond with each other strengthens. Matsoukas and Waithe perfectly depict Queen and Slim’s unlikely romance. They infuse the film with cerebral, lyrical qualities that, at times, give the central duo a transcendent, spiritual aura. The film refuses to paint them as clear-cut heroes, however, showing how their actions both inspire and harm those they encounter. Everyone Queen and Slim meet along the way, including a volatile but kind-hearted war veteran played by Bokeem Woodbine, has a choice to make regarding whether or not to help them. More often than not, these individuals choose to help, guided by their morals rather than societal constructs of right and wrong.

“The film is a true emotional rollercoaster, containing heart, humor, suspense, tragedy and thought-provoking themes tying everything together.” Gordon McPherson, movie reviewer

The film expertly veers between elation and nail-biting suspense from beginning to end, illustrating the heartbreaking situation at the center of their romance. Indeed, while the film opts for a more surreal approach when developing the central romance — by extension letting viewers feel as Queen and Slim do — several violent sequences bring those hopeful emotions crashing down into cold, hard reality. These stressful encounters often left me shaken, as I cared for Queen and Slim as real people, not mere characters in a film. Turner-Smith and Kaluuya obviously give extraordinary performances, infusing their characters with an authenticity that seeps off the screen into viewers’ souls. Brilliantly, the film never shies away from moral and emotional complexity to be more “entertaining” for general audiences. Contemporary America is a dangerous place, brutalized by injustice within its law enforcement and criminal justice system. “Queen & Slim” is a masterful call for change.

Jodie Turner-Smith and Daniel Kaluuya star in “Queen and Slim,” playing the dynamic characters to which the title refers. Movie critic Gordon McPherson awards the piece a firm 5/5 raised fists. Photo by Andre D. Wagner, Universal Pictures

The Index

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Storytime with

Allison

Marla’s Martian fashion ALLISON MASCHHOFF Staff Writer

“Where do you think you are? The fashion capital of Mars?” I identified the voice through the buzz of the school cafeteria before I had even turned around. Once I was looking him in the eyes, I smirked. “Don’t you have better things to do than theorize about Martian fashion, Brad?” “Clearly you don’t,” he replied. I batted my eyelashes. “Well, I’m just not as important as you.” Brad rolled his eyes and maybe he would have left me alone, but then he saw Kevin. He smiled at me like a predator baring its teeth at its prey before saying, “Hey, Kevin! Why is your sister such a weirdo? She looks like she escaped from a circus.” My twin looked at me with tired concern. He was used to this. We were both used to this. Brad was just being his normal self. I hoped Kevin would just leave it alone. Instead he set down his lunch tray at his usual table, walked over to us and said, “Brad, go pick on someone your own size.” “What, someone like you?” “Why can’t you just leave us alone?” “Why don’t you make me?” Kevin rolled his eyes. As if talking to a toddler, he said, “Oh, does the big bad bully need some validation? A chance to feel strong and powerful over —” And that was when Brad punched him in the face. I yelled, rushing to Kevin’s side. “Kevin! Kevin? It’s me. It’s Marla. Can you hear me?” “Stop shouting,” he mumbled. “I’m fine.” The skin around his left eye was already turning dark purple, like the sky before a thunderstorm. He was not fine. I whipped around to unleash a fury on Brad that I hadn’t been able to muster on my own be-

half. “You pompous, arrogant jerk! Why did you hit him? Because of my clothes? How on earth is that logical? How on earth does that get you anywhere other than suspended? Seriously, if you’re going to be evil, at least go for evil genius. Evil doofus doesn’t get you anywhere in real life. This isn’t a cartoon and you won’t be fighting a platypus anytime soon!” Brad blinked at the Phineas and Ferb reference. I could almost see his blood boiling beneath the surface of his skin, lighting his eyes with barely contained rage. I think he would’ve swung at me, too, if my tirade hadn’t drawn the attention of the teacher on lunch duty, not to mention the surrounding students. “What’s going on here?” Mrs. Robinson squinted at us through her lavender readers. “Brad punched my brother,” I said before anyone else could manage to speak. “Brad?” He didn’t react. Mrs. Robinson took that as evidence of his guilt. “Off with you to the principal’s office.” She turned to Kevin. “Are you alright?” He nodded. “I might go to the nurse and grab an ice pack.” The teacher gave a curt nod and then marched off in the direction of the principal’s office, presumably not trusting Brad to actually turn himself in. Later that afternoon, as we walked home from school, I kept my hand on Kevin’s shoulder to help guide him as he held the ice pack over his slightly swollen eye. As we turned onto our street, he said, “Marla, why can’t you just dress like a normal person? I’m happy to take the hit for you, I’ll do it again and again, but wouldn’t it be easier on you to just blend in a little more?” I touched my free hand to the bright red beret that sat atop my head and looked down

at the rest of my outfit. I was wearing a red turtleneck under a black and white checkered jumper. I had on black tights and red converse and I had kept my oversized, fuzzy green jacket on all day even though it was late April. Quietly, I said, “To quote the Addams Family, ‘Normal is an illusion. What is normal for the spider is chaos for the fly.’” Kevin sighed heavily. “Marla, you know I’m trying to —” “Yes, I know! You’re trying to help me. But I don’t need that kind of help. I know what I’m doing and I didn’t ask you to take any punches. Mom and Dad taught us to help people when and where we can. I’m fifteen years old, I’m five foot two and I weigh a hundred pounds. There’s not much I can do. But I’m thick skinned and I can draw the attention of bullies away from people who can’t cope with it as well.” Kevin was quiet until we got to our front door. Before walking inside, he told me, “I’m your big brother, even if it’s only by twenty minutes. You’ll never have to ask me to take a punch for you.” The next morning, I woke up and put on an oversized blue sweater with fuzzy clouds sewn onto it. I paired it with my red beret and a flowy pair of plaid pants. I wondered which planet Brad would accuse me of being from today and which teachers would stare at me in confusion. When I walked into the kitchen to grab breakfast, I found Kevin sitting at the table and all my wonderings disappeared. He’d covered up his black eye with an eyepatch that looked as if it had been specifically made for a pirate Halloween costume. He winked at me with his uncovered eye. “You’re not the only one who’s thick skinned.” Then he got up and walked toward the front door, calling out over his shoulder, “Let’s go!” I grinned, rushing to follow him. “Aye, aye, captain!”

It wasn’t always Holiday Lights How Truman has historically celebrated the winter holidays

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 Tonight, Dec. 5, the Student Advisory Board will present the annual Holiday Lights event in front of the Kirk Memorial Building. The event begins at 7 p.m. and features Christmas lights, a capella performances, food and drinks. It’s a time where students can celebrate the holiday season and unwind before finals week. In honor of the seasonal festivities, this installment of Truman Throwback revisits several of the winter holiday activities available to Truman State University students of decades past. Instead of having the Holiday Lights to look forward to, students who attended Truman 90 years ago could go to an all-school Christmas party, according to the 1929 edition of The Echo. The event was held right before Christmas break and included a charitable component where students and faculty could bring gifts for the less-fortunate children in Kirksville. It allowed students to not only toast the end of the fall semester but also honor the spirit of the season through giving. Just 20 years later, Truman commemorated the holidays with an entire week of activities. Looking at the 1949 edition of The Echo, the week-long celebration included a plethora of outdoor decorations, a Christmas pageant, an annual faculty sponsored tea party, a formal dance and a schoolwide assembly. Truman packed the week full of events to ensure that students went home for break in high spirits. Truman’s tradition of winter holiday celebrations continued through the years. According to the 1979 edition of The Echo, the Saint-Petersburg State Ballet on ice visited Truman for a performance of “Swan Lake” held in Baldwin Auditorium. Though the performance went off without a hitch, it required extensive set up that spanned 52 hours spread over three days, according to Brad Steinmetz, the auditorium manager at the time.

The preparations included installing an ice rink on the auditorium stage, hanging lights and crafting scenery. Making the ice rink proved challenging because the crew had to insulate the stage with Styrofoam, cover the stage with special coolant systems, dump crushed ice onto the rink, fill it with water and let the water refreeze to form a smooth layer for the dancers to skate on. In more recent years — just before the turn of the millennium — more than 50 Truman students took part in skiing trips to the Rocky Mountains in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, according to the 1999 edition of The Echo. The group trips were sponsored through a travel agency and the Student Activities Board, and offered packages

at different price ranges based on what students wanted to experience during the trip. The visits to Colorado also included activities such as night ski shows, parties and amateur ski races where students could win medals for showing off their ski skills. Since then, Truman has condensed the holiday celebrations to the SAB’s Holiday Lights event. Tonight, students will be able to relax before the upcoming finals week as they drink hot cocoa and munch on cookies while listening to some good music under the Christmas lights. It will be a time to enjoy each other’s company as well as the holiday season just like students from decades past.

Students gathered at the Kirk Memorial Building in 2016 for Holiday Lights. This year’s Holiday Lights will take place tonight at 7 p.m. in the same place and feature a capella performances, food and drinks. Photo from The Index Archives

The Index

Ouestions ?

Katelyn McCrary, sophomore

Danny White, freshman

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

the

Ouad ? Nate Appelbaum, senior

Question 1: What’s the best present you’ve ever received? “I don’t know. Probably my parents buying me a car.”

“I think when I was in third grade I got one of those plastic electric ATVs. There were three speeds — tortoise, human and rabbit. I always went rabbit. If you’re not going full speed, then what’s the point?”

“The best present I’ve ever received is salvation through Jesus Christ for my sins.”

Question 2: What’s the worst holiday song and why? “It’s the one that repeats over and over and over again. ‘A Wonderful Christmas Time’ by Paul McCartney and Wings.”

“The worst holiday song is ‘Santa Baby’ because in the original, her voice is very annoying and too high pitched. It just doesn’t sound good. Absolutely the worst.”

“So I listened to some EDM Christmas music a couple days ago, and that was pretty horrible. I think it was ‘Jingle Bells.’ I say that very loosely. I’m not sure.”

Question 3: How are you feeling about finals? “Well, I have five in two days. I feel good about the content, but I don’t want to have to worry about them all while getting my room all spick and span.”

“I’m nervous, but I’m as prepared as I can be. I don’t have as many finals, but I have more presentations. I just came from one, actually. I’m not too worried about it.”

“Finals are looking pretty good. I only have one.”

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The Index

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

UPCOMING EVENTS BASKETBALL

MEN’S At Northwest Missouri State University at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20 At William Jewell College at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2 At Rockhurst University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4 Vs Missouri University of Science and Technology at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 Vs Maryville University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 Vs University of Illinois Springfield at 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Jan. 16 Vs Lewis University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 At Quincy University at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 WOMEN’S At University of Sioux Falls at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18 At William Jewell College at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2 At Rockhurst University at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4 Vs Missouri University of Science and Technology at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 Vs Maryville University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 Vs University of Illinois Springfield at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 Vs Lewis University at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 At Quincy University at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20

SWIMMING

MEN’S At Missouri University of Science and Technology at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 At Washington University at noon Saturday, Jan. 18 WOMEN’S At Washington University at noon Saturday, Jan. 18

FOOTBALL

At America’s Crossroads Bowl vs Ohio Domican University at 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7

CROSS COUNTRY

MEN’S, WOMEN’S At Mel Tjeerdsma Classic at Northwest Missouri State University Friday, Dec. 6 through Saturday, Dec. 7 At Dutch Holiday Preview at Central College Saturday, Dec. 14 At Dutch Athletics Classic at Central College Saturday, Jan. 18

FRISBEE| TSUnami sets itself apart

Continued from page 14 The team travels to many different cities to compete, including Kansas City, Missouri; Columbia, Missouri; Louisville, Kentucky; Rockford, Illinois; and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Team co-captain Lauren Wiggins said she likes how the team has come together during her three years at Truman. “My personal favorite thing about TSUnami is how different we all are from each other and yet we make this amazing, talented team,” Wiggins said. “We probably might not have gotten so close to each other if not for this team and I think this has been a really unique and beautiful way for us to come together.” TSUnami is a no-cut team and welcomes all interested players. There are currently 35 players on the roster. TSUnami starts off the school year in the fall by holding open scrimmages with the men’s team, JujiTSU. Recruitment Chair Mandi Matteucci said it’s a great way for people to play frisbee in a fun, less competitive environment. The team advertises by putting up posters and updating their social media with practice times and locations.

By the first tournament, TSUnami pairs new members with veteran players who act as mentors. Additionally, the team usually holds an informational meeting in the fall about its upcoming season. The team typically gets most of its new members during the fall season because that is when new members are taught the rules of the game. The spring season is usually more competitive, however, the team still accepts new members year round. Matteucci said ultimate frisbee is more than just a sport to her. “After seven years of playing, every time I go to a tournament, I see someone I know from either summer league, club, high school or college,” Matteucci said. “TSUnami is a great team for anyone who wants to find a place where they belong at Truman.” For more information on TSUnami Women’s Ultimate and live game updates, you can find TSUnami’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. To join the team, reach out to co-captains Lauren Wiggins and Sarah Finley, or contact the recruitment chair, Mandi Matteucci. Students looking to join can also show up to practices throughout the week.

Pictured Below: TSUnami at the national tournament in 2019. The team hopes to qualify again for nationals. Pictured Left: Claire Trumbull reaches up to grab a high toss. Trumbell is a TSUnami alumna. Submitted Photos

COLUMN| It is time to hand out the NFL MVP CHASE POTTER Sports Editor

With only four weeks remaining in the 2019 National Football League season, the race for the title of Most Valuable Player is more competitive now than it has been all year. With reigning MVP Patrick Mahomes II sidelined for two games in late November, the award was up for grabs. Among the top candidates for

the award is rising star Lamar Jackson. Jackson has been one of the NFL’s most polarizing players so far this season with jawdropping scrambles, impossible touchdowns and a powerful arm. These plays have landed Jackson firmly in the discussion among NFL voters to take home the 2019 MVP award. As the league’s most prolific dual-threat quarterback there were many questions about Jackson’s throwing capabilities coming into the 2019-20 season, with some members of the media claiming that Jackson was better suited to line up in the backfield as a running back instead of under center as a quarterback. As Jackson has proved with his play this season, this opinion could not be further from the truth. For starters, Jackson leads the league in total quarterback rating, which is the overall measure of how well a quarterback is play-

ing by factoring in all relative stats. In other words, Jackson has been the best overall quarterback in the league this season. He has been not just the best running quarterback, but the best in all facets of the game. Jackson has thrown 25 touchdowns this season and only five interceptions with a touchdown-to-turnover rate of 5-1, which would rank him 21st in NFL history. These 25 touchdowns don’t include the seven rushing touchdowns that Jackson has accumulated in his 12 starts this season. This is the fifth best total in the league and second best total by a quarterback. If his stats aren’t enough proof, Jackson’s team, the Baltimore Ravens, are now tied for the best record in the NFL at 10-2, and have won eight straight games including wins over the then undefeated New England Patriots and the then 10-1 San Francisco 49ers. Without

Jackson, this winning streak and the two victories over two of the league’s top teams would not have been possible. All seven of Jackson’s rushing touchdowns this season have been scored during the team’s eight-game winning streak, and Jackson has not turned the ball over since week five of this season. If he continues this dominant streak not only will he be the best player in the NFL this season, but Jackson could find himself breaking records set by some of the NFL’s all-time greats, such as Tom Brady. Jackson’s efficiency and ball security alone are enough to put his name in the MVP race, but his intelligence in the pocket and his ability to make plays with his feet make him not only the most electrifying player in the NFL, but should more than qualify him for this season’s MVP.

The Index

SEASON STATS FOOTBALL Overall Conference Home Away Neutral

9-2

5-2

5-0 4-2

0-0

MEN’S SWIMMING Overall

Score

3-4

72, 80, 128, 56, 98, 112, 222

WOMEN'S SWIMMING Overall

Score

7-0

115, 179.50, 146, 121, 109, 258, 237

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

BASKETBALL| Bulldogs top Quincy in conference opener RYAN PIVONEY Editor-in-Chief Belanger was closely followed by forward Maddie Re and guard Sloane Totta, who each put up 13 points against Quincy Tuesday night. Totta, the team’s only senior, has been an asset to the team throughout the season. Totta led the Bulldogs against UCM with 16 points and was a strong force against Quincy with 13 points. Head coach Theo Dean said he thought the game went well overall and that the team played with a sense of urgency and effort. After losing to UCM, Dean said it was important to bounce back and not lose another game. Dean said Re kicked off the team’s success with a steal in the full court press. Throughout the game Re brought energy and enthusiasm, Dean said, which made for an easier win. Dean also pointed to guard Makenzie Bray, Totta and Belanger as factors for Tuesday night’s success. From revamping the group when offense was stagnant to securing some big shots from the three point line, Dean said the team worked well together throughout the game.

MEN’S BASKETBALL Overall

5-3

Conference Home Away Neutral

1-0

2-0 2-1

1-2

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Overall

5-2

Conference Home Away Neutral

1-0

2-1 0-0

3-1

Top: Sloan Totta shoots a layup over her defender. Totta is the only senior on this year’s team.

Right: Forward Ellie Weltha catches the ball at the top of the key. Weltha is a tansfer from Illinois State University in her first year with the Bulldogs. Bottom: Head coach Theo Dean rallies his team from the sideline. This is Dean’s first season as the women’s head coach. Photos by Kara Mackenzie

Hannah Belanger beats her defender and drives to the basket. Belanger scored 13 points in the Bulldogs’ most recent home victory. Photo by Kara Mackenzie

Dean said the women’s basketball team will need to work on taking pride in getting multiple stops in a row and breaking the habit of taking defensive plays off when the team is up. “We have to have the mindset that we’re going to defend our hardest until the final buzzer,” Dean said. Dean said the team prepared on Monday by analyzing Quincy’s common plays and working out ways to defend against them. The Bulldogs walked away with more than just a win. The team also had a few takeaways from the matchup with Quincy. “We tried a few plays that we hadn’t run all year that put our players in different positions to score and they worked really well for us,” Dean said. “We also ran our zone defense a lot more than we have all year and got a lot of deflections, steals … and I was really excited to see that.” Dean said he plans on using the next couple weeks to review the game and tweak the team’s offense, zone and full court press to become more successful. The women’s basketball team will be in action again at the University of Sioux Falls at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

The Index

ATHLETE o f

t h e

w e e k

Brodric Thomas has undoubtedly been the leader of the Bulldogs’ men’s basketball team during its recent three-game winning streak. In the first of three wins, Thomas led the ’Dogs and their opponents in scoring with 23 points, including the game-winning buzzer beater that sent the seventh ranked Missouri Southern State University Lions home. In the weekend tournament that followed, Thomas again led in scoring in both games. In the first game against Newman University, Thomas had 32 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Thomas then followed up his season high performance with a 29 point, seven rebound outing against Washburn University.

Brodric Thomas

MEN’S BASKETBALL| Men’s team wins four in a row Continued from page 14 With 13:07 left, the Bulldogs got their first lead of the game and finished the half 12 points ahead of the Jets with 38 points. At the start of the second half, Newman closed in on Truman’s lead at 47-43. Soon the Bulldogs were ahead by one basket, but Thomas and guard Turner Scott pushed Truman’s lead up to nine points. Newman tried to fight back but continued to fall behind. With 1:09 on the clock, Newman knocked down Truman’s lead to five points. The Bulldogs were able to maintain their lead until the final buzzer. The next day, the Bulldogs secured their third straight win with a close score of 62-60 against Washburn University. Truman started the game off well with a lead, but at 14:38, Washburn pulled ahead. The Bulldogs finished eight points behind Washburn at the half. During the second half, Washburn continued to lead, but Truman came back with 3:15 left in the game. Truman and Washburn continued to battle back and forth for the lead for the rest of the game. Finally, Scott captured the win for the Bulldogs with a trip to the free throw line, where he went 2-2.

Newman and Washburn play two different styles of basketball on the court, assistant coach Austin McBeth said. McBeth said he thinks Newman plays defense more aggressively and tries to create one-on-one mismatches on the offense, while Washburn plays more methodically. “Washburn was much more disciplined. They ran a ton of sets, they were very specific in a lot of the things that they did and they were intentional,” McBeth said. On Thursday night, the Bulldogs beat rival Quincy University 69-59 at Pershing Arena. This is the team’s fourth win in a row since they beat MSSU two weeks ago. After Quincy, the team will not play Northwest Missouri State University, the No.1 Div. II team in the country, until Dec. 20. McBeth said he’s not sure what the team will be working on over this almost month long break, but he thinks they’ll probably watch a lot of tapes of past games and look at what the team does right as well as what needs to be worked on. The Bulldogs are going to tweak some things and set themselves in a better position to score more points during this time off, McBeth said.

Guard Turner Scott drives baseline and beats his defender. Scott leads the Bulldogs in assists per game this season. Photo by Jake Wendel

Top: Brodric Thomas shoots the game winning shot. As the shot left his hand the clock had just 0.1 second remaining. Right: Truman’s starting five meet with head coach Jeff Horner. This timeout came moments before the final play, and gave the Bulldogs one final opportunity to win the game. Photos by Jake Wendel

SWIM| Swim teams look to senior leaders as conference approaches

Continued from page 14 Both teams will return to action after their annual training trip to Florida over winter break. Simek plans on pushing his team over the training period in order to ensure they are both mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming conference and national championships. The men’s team will be back in action against the University of Missouri Science and Technology in Rolla, Missouri, on Jan. 17. Just a day later the women’s team will travel to St. Louis to take on the University of Washington and put their undefeated duel record on the line.

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Bulldogs win thriller at home vs No. 7 Lions

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019

Women’s basketball beats rival at home RYAN PIVONEY Editor-in-Chief

The Truman State University women’s basketball team scored 74 points in its first conference game, beating Quincy University in Tuesday night’s game. The Bulldogs began conference play with a 4-2 overall record, but after beating the Hawks by 74-54, the team now has a .714 winning percentage. Prior to its face off against Quincy, Truman finished the DoubleTree Thanksgiving Classic hosted by Drury University, beating Northern Michigan University 67-52, but falling to the University of Central Missouri 63-70. Quincy University narrowly led Truman at the end of the first quarter 1514, but the Bulldogs pushed ahead and maintained the lead from the second quarter to the final buzzer. Guard Hannah Belanger led the Bulldogs against the Hawks, scoring 17 points. Belanger also led the ’Dogs in three pointer attempts made, making five out of eight shots. See BASKETBALL page 12 Guard Brodric Thomas celebrates with his teammates after making a game-winning shot. Thomas led all scorers with 23 points in the game. Photo by Jake Wendel

Men’s basketball improves to 5-3 ERICA SCHAMEL Staff Writer

The Truman State University men’s basketball team beat Missouri Southern State University, the No. 7 Div. II team in the nation, at its season’s home opener Nov. 21. This is the second time Truman has beat a nationally ranked team this season. On Nov. 8, the Bulldogs beat the University of Findlay, which was ranked 17th coming into the season.

TSUnami prepares for 2020 season ZACH WEINMAN Contributing Writer

Truman State University’s TSUnami Women’s Ultimate Frisbee team is an organization on campus that competes against other schools nationwide each semester. Last spring, the team went undefeated heading into nationals where it placed seventh. It was the first time the team finished undefeated in the spring season. The national tournament took place in College Station, Texas, where TSUnami was the No. 1 ranked women’s team in Div. III. Throughout the spring season, the team won first place in the regional tournament and four other tournaments. So far this fall, the team has played in three tournaments. It finished in second place twice and seventh place out of 24 teams — including some Div. I schools such as the University of Missouri, Kansas State University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Throughout the 2019 season, TSUnami has finished first in the South Central Div. III Conference out of nine teams, and fourth in the nation out of 87 teams. The team has played in 40 games and won 36 — winning 25 games by more than five points. Team co-captain Sarah Finley says the team has many goals as they finish out the year. “We have a large class graduating, so we really want to focus on cultivating a sense of community and love for the sport that has made myself and the rest of my class stay,” Finley said. “Of course we ideally want to make it to nationals by the end of the year because that is always an honor and a tribute to how hard we work, but at the end of the day our main goal is recruitment and retainment.” The TSUnami team is currently preparing for the upcoming spring 2020 season. Throughout the fall, the team practiced three times a week. See FRISBEE page 11 VOLUME 111

ISSUE 11

The game against MSSU started with Truman leading 12-9 until the Lions tied it up. Truman continued to lag behind the Lions from there, falling short five points at halftime. There were just under 11 minutes left in the second half when the Bulldogs eventually pulled ahead of MSSU with 46-47 after guard Luke TerHark’s layup. The Lions fired back with multiple three pointers and pushed ahead with five minutes left in the game. Truman answered with a layup, but MSSU tied the game again at 68

with 1:26 left. Both teams missed baskets just before guard Brodric Thomas made the game winning shot 30 feet from the basket with 2.7 seconds left on the clock. On Friday, Truman came out on top against Newman University by six points at 78-72. Thomas scored a total of 32 points, his highest point total so far this season. The Newman Jets started the half ahead of Truman at 8-4, until Thomas tied the game with six consecutive points. See MEN’S BASKETBALL page 13

Center Katie Jaseckas backs down her defender. Jaseckas had seven points against the Hawks. Photo by Kara Mackenzie

Swim teams hit their stride CHASE POTTER Sports Editor

The men’s and women’s swim teams completed the first half of their 2019-20 season in early November. The women’s team has started this season strong, winning its first seven duels. In addition to an undefeated record in duels, the women’s team captured a win in the Colorado College Tri-meet in October, marking its first victory of the year. Most recently the girls team traveled to the University of Missouri-Columbia to compete in the 2019 Mizzou Invite against nine Div. I opponents and two Div. II opponents. The Bulldogs placed ninth out of the 13 teams at the meet, but placed behind only one Div. II team and finished better than three Div. I opponents: the University of Kansas, the University of Cincinnati and Iowa State University. When asked about the team’s performance up to this point, head coach Jerod Simek said this season

has started differently than last year. Last season — Simek’s first as the full-time head coach of the Bulldogs — the women’s roster had just three seniors and nine incoming freshmen. Simek has credited his senior class, now a group of five, with setting the standard for this season’s incoming freshman class. “[Captain] Kaylee Sisson is having a great senior season right now,” Simek said. “The leadership that the senior class is bringing in, making sure that people are staying positive has been the biggest difference this year. Everybody from top to bottom, senior to freshman, is wanting to make sure that this is a priority because they know that that’s what is going to lead to great swims.” Sisson has been one of the Bulldogs’ most impactful players through the first half of the season according to her head coach. Simek believes that Sisson, a freestyle and backstroke specialist, has been one of the team’s most consistent swimmers, and has

The women’s swimming team will be preparing for the second half of their season in Florida over break. Photo by Truman Athletics

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helped many of the underclassmen in their early days as Bulldogs. One of those underclassmen is sophomore Emma Brabham. Brabham has been one of the Bulldogs’ winningest swimmers in the 2019 season. Brabham is a jack-of-all-trades for the Bulldog’s squad, as she is one of only two athletes on the team that swims three strokes individually and also competes in the individual medley. Simek believes that his team’s chemistry, willingness to sacrifice and commitment to each other is a large part of its early success. With a large senior class that is willing to lead, Simek said he hopes his team will continue to grow closer and ultimately improve in the water. The men’s team has not been able to match the consistency of the women’s team at this point in the season. With an overall duel record of 3-3 and a loss at the Colorado Tri-meet the men’s team has been fighting to stay above water. Simek believes the loss of strong senior leadership might have been the reason the Bulldogs started poorly, but after maneuvering their way through the early stages of the season he is hopeful his team has learned how to compete at a high level consistently. “There has been a little bit of a learning curve,” Simek said. “It’s definitely been good to have Riley Olson. As a junior captain last year he was able to lead with [the seniors], and then taking that roll on this year without [the seniors].” Simek believes that his team needs to execute race strategies if they hope to have success in the second half of their season. Simek says his team is often relaxed finishing races or approaching walls and to compete in the Great Lakes Valley Conference, the fastest conference in Div. II swimming with five teams in the top 15, his team needs to power through and rely on their training to finish through the walls. See SWIM page 13

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