the review washburn university
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Where to go for some Halloween fun. Page A5 Serving Washburn University since 1897
volume 136, Issue 10 • wednesday, October 28, 2009
week
Ben Fitch WASHBURN REVIEW
Photo by Matt Wilper, Washburn Review
Work it: Garrett Love and Caley Onek work on a Success Week proposal. The policy was proposed to Academic Affairs on the 26th.
Lauren Eckert WASHBURN REVIEW
There is little doubt that finals week can be a stressful and trying time for college students. Late night study sessions, last-minute cramming and lack of sleep do little to reduce the anxiety most students feel as the semester wraps up. But the Washburn Student Government Association is working on a plan to give students a little relief. WSGA President Garrett Love and Vice President Caley Onek are working with WSGA to implement a policy that eliminates examinations, major course assignments and projects during the week prior to Finals Week. The main purpose of this policy is to reduce the stress that many students face when they have to prepare for a regular course exam, and then turn around the next week and take a comprehensive final. Currently, there is no policy in place at Washburn that restricts faculty from giving examinations, major assignments and class projects or presentations the last week of classes for the semester. “Professors have to realize that students have other finals and classes to focus on,” Love said. “We’re trying to help improve students’ success by giving them more time to prepare for finals.” The policy will be coined Success Week, and was constructed after research and comparison to other institutions with similar policies already in place. The research reflected that out of the six Board of Regents schools, five of them have either a Dead Week, where students are not required to take exams or turn in major assignments, or Dead Days, where students are not required to attend classes at all in order to allow students time to study and
prepare for finals. Numerous other and tests, take-home exams and labouniversities and colleges have simi- ratory examinations. The restrictions lar policies, including the University of the week also do not apply to classes of Florida, Georgia Tech, Iowa State, meeting only one day a week for more Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Texas than one hour. A&M to name a few. While this policy is intended to As part of the policy, the last help students be successful, it is not at week of fall and spring undergradu- all intended to make things more diffiate classes will be designated Success cult for faculty. If at any time instrucWeek. The restrictions for this week tors believe the policy jeopardizes or require that no student organizations impairs their ability to teach, they may registered with the Student Activities petition the Dean or chair of their deand Greek Life Office may hold meet- partment, who will monitor and evaluings or sponsor events without the ex- ate this policy each semester. pressed permission of designated staff Though the policy has been thorof SAGL. oughly researched and debated, it is For academic purposes, faculty are still subject to change as it makes its encouraged to utilize Success Week as way through the approval process. a time for review of course material in First, the policy must be approved by preparation for final exams. If an exam Academic Affairs. The draft will then is to be given during Success Week, it be presented to the Faculty Senate in must not be given during the last three November, followed by the General days. Assignments worth no more than Faculty (which only meets twice a 10 percent of the year) in Janufinal class grade “ ary. If the draft is and cover more approved by all than one-fourth three areas and We’re trying to help of assigned mateWSGA itself, the improve students’ rial in the course program will be can be required implemented. success by giving of students dur“I think them m ore time to ing this time pethis is a really riod. important issue prepare for finals. Also, major that needs to be course assignaddressed,” said ments, including Love. “We’re - Garrett Love extensive reexcited about WSGA President search papers and faculty having projects, should interest and ” an be due the Friday seeing the imprior to Success portance of passWeek and should ing this policy. I be assigned at the beginning of the se- think this could be really good for the mester. Any modifications to these as- students of Washburn.” signments should be made in a timely WSGA is very supportive of this fashion to give students adequate time proposal, hoping that it will create a to complete the assignment. friendlier policy for stressed students Finally, if major course assign- cramming for finals. ments must be given during Success The policy passed the initial apWeek, they should be due no later than proval process through Academic Afthat Wednesday. This includes class fairs on Monday, Oct. 26 and is schedpresentations and semester-long proj- uled to be reviewed in front of the ects that may take the place of a final Faculty Senate in November. examination. Participation and attendance Lauren Eckert is a junior mass media grades are still acceptable during Suc- major. Reach her at lauren.eckert@ cess Week, as is make-up assignments washburn.edu.
Check out the secret life of a soccer player and other stories online this week.
sports
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“There are problems and there are opportunities,” he said, “I think what we are trying to do is focus on the opResponse was scarce for some of portunities.” the Strategic Planning sub-committees Even technology support, menlast week. tioned under the support category of The committees’ white papers— the academic programs white paper, drafts of suggestions from various calls for technology to support the sub-committees—were presented on- academic mission of Washburn. The line until Oct. 23, open for suggestion. recent problems with technology supAnd the committees for academic pro- port are not directly mentioned, but it grams, asset development and stew- is expressed that there is a need to meet ardship, and enrollment management the demand for technology literacy. received the most comments. “We are gathering information “It looks like there were some that’s really important for the next 10 good suggestions for academic pro- years,” Angel said, “and the [strategic grams,” said Steve Angel, sub-com- planning] process is responding to mittee chair and associate professor of current initiatives.” chemistry. Learning environment deals exThe academic programs sub- tensively with the physical charactercommittee will meet Friday to go over istics of campus. The sub-committee’s the responses. Their white white paper suggests new paper is organized into STRATEGIC buildings for the Law three main categories— and health sciences, PLANNING School programs, organization and and renovation of a list of support. Under programs, structures including Mabee the committee expressed the need for Library, Morgan Hall, Carnegie and the localization of health services. Be- Henderson. cause of the various sub-disciplines in Much of what is featured in the the Washburn health arena, there needs various strategic planning white pato be a centralized location of the mul- pers is general suggestions. There are tiple educational programs that are of- suggestions to achieve goals, but not fered, according to the white paper. many specifics. Gordon McQuere, Under organization, the sub-com- learning environment sub-committee mittee also expressed the need to “pro- chair and Dean of the College of Arts mote the primacy of academics.” and Sciences, said the broad presentaAngel said some of the sugges- tion of suggestions was necessary. tions in the white papers are born of “When a plan is adopted it will problems that already exist on cam- look a little general,” he said. pus, but some, like making academics But the drafts will be changed a primary concern, are simply issues Please see WHITE PAPERS page A3 of foresight.
Survival workshops are barely surviving Meghan Ryan WASHBURN REVIEW During the week of Oct. 19 -23, Student Survivor Workshops have been offering helpful tips for Washburn students on campus. Friendly advisors and counselors have been discussing topics that affect all college students such as sleep habits, academic advising and time management strategies. Unfortunately, no one is taking advantage of these workshops. The decline in attendance for helpful miniseminars is not only a trend at Washburn University, but the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Creighton have all seen similar declines in attendance. Don Vest of the Center for Undergraduate Studies and Programs and counselor, held multiple workshops last week and understands that students already have plenty on their plate without attending sessions discussing “Brain Food” and learning college lifestyle tips. The college student of today is
The RoadRunners continue their winning streak.
Visit Gary’s Pumpkin Patch for some Halloween fun.
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A&E
Success Week proposal: a dead week policy that gives students more time to study for finals
news
Future foreseen on white paper
constantly faced with information and an over stimulation of the senses without the addition of workshops. Vest believes that “students are overwhelmed by the novelty and variety” that the fast paced world of Internet and our in-your-face culture offers. While full time students may be physically in the classroom for only 12 hours a week, it often takes 20-25 hours outside of the classroom to keep up with homework and studying. “There is an information overload situation occurring [with the students]” Vest said. While workshops may offer helpful information, none of it will be on any test or assignment and thus is deemed unnecessary. Students may choose to relax or work on assignments that will instantly have an effect on the immediate future in terms of grades and well-being. The scheduling of the workshops
Please see WORKSHOPS page A3
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News Briefs • Wednesday, October 28, 2009
The Bod Beat Campus News • Topeka News • Kansas News • Police Report • Weather
This Week On ampus
Calendar
Review Online
Thursday, October 29 OPEN Information Table Memorial Union 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Presentation, “Mount Leguna Observatory Historical Development” Stoffer Science Hall, Room 138 3:30 p.m. Student Skills Workshop “Test Anxiety” Mabee Library 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Trick or Treat Off the Street Living Learning Center 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Soccer Yager Stadium at Moore Bowl 6 p.m. All Hallow’s Eve Party Catholic Campus Center 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Bowling for Breast Cancer Gage Bowl 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, October 30 Hallo-WU-een Costume Contest Memorial Union 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Klemmer Lecture Series Carole Chapel 4 p.m. Friday Night Live (Chi Alpha) International House 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WU Board of Regents Mulvane Art Museum 4 p.m.
Saturday, October 31 Mulvane Art Museum’s Family and Community Saturday Mulvane Art Museum 1 p.m.to 4 p.m. Football Yager Stadium at Moore Bowl 1 p.m. Halloween Costume Contest
TopSoccer a kickin’ cause Each Sunday in Topeka, a group of athletes come together to play soccer. The program is called TopSoccer, and is an outreach program for young athlees with disabilities. The program started in the spring and remains successful, with 25 participants currently signed up. The program is organized by Youth Soccer Organization volunteers, who are each paired with an athlete, who
No healthcare debate here Washburn University held its third annual Healthcare Career Fair. The event target all students intending to go into healthcare, including majors from departments such as Nursing and all of the Allied Health programs, like the Physical Therapy Assistant and Radiologic Technology programs. This year was the largest yet, and there is hope for continued growth and expansion in the future. Students were
given the opportunity to speak with representatives from approximately 30 various businesses and employers to see what they were all about and had to offer students after graduation. The targeted fair was smaller than the other career fairs held on campus in Lee Arena, attracting one-third of the number of employers and targeting students interested only in healthcare.
Photo by Mallory Shehi, Washburn Review
Celtic Fox: Dave Hess rocks out on his guitar for a crowd in Celtic Fox in downtown Topeka while Michael Spangler plays behind. The pair are members of the band Echo Lake, who plays blues and jazz music for fans in locations around Topeka.
Student documentary: A day in the life of a soccer player Jordan Shefte, a member of the Washburn University Women’s Soccer Team, took the camera along for an inside preview of the day in the life of a soccer player. Shefte documented the activities of a typical game day, starting with Chalk Talk, breakfast at Panera, and following the team as it traveled to Omaha, Neb. to take on the Uni-
versity of Nebraska in Omaha. The team takes viewers through the pre-game routine and the action as the team faces off against the opponent. They wrapped up a long day with a family style dinner at Shefte’s family home in Omaha, and a three hour trek back to Topeka.
Visit the Review Online at washburnreview.org ...for more, doll-face
Photo by Bobby Davis, Washburn Review
Women’s Soccer: Leah Talley of the Washburn University Women’s Soccer team is ready for some action during an away game. The team traveled to the University of Nebraska at Omaha last Thursday, Oct. 22 and lost 0-1 after a difficult face-off.
Vice President’s Press
Sunday, November 1
-paid for by WSGA-
No Events Scheduled
Hello Washburn!
Monday, November 2
First, I would like to send out a BIG thank you to everyone who helped in making “Ichabod Island” Homecoming Week possible! We had record turn-outs at many of the events, so thank you for your involvement and participation! Also, our athletic teams are doing well so we need to keep cheering them on as much as we can! We still have many exciting things going on in student government. Currently, we are working to implement a Success Week Policy for the week before finals. The policy would give students more time to prepare for their finals. This is an extremely stressful time for students, and I believe that if everyone sees how important this could be to help improve student success, this will be passed. Also, we are constantly working to expand our iSave program. Our newest business is Mr. Goodcents. We are very excited to have them on board! There are 4 locations in Topeka, and they will be offering a 15% discount to Washburn students, so make sure and show your student ID next time you order a sub! Recently, they provided party trays for the winning gong show team and catoring to our Senate. The nearest location is on 21st Street between Gage and Fairlawn. We are in the midst of Think Pink week, so make sure you are looking out for the many great events our ZTAs are putting on and help support breast cancer awareness. Vote in the best chest contest all week, participate in the yogurt eating contest on Wednesday, Bowling for Breast Cancer Thursday, and wear your PINK all week long!! Also, make it out to the Think Pink football game this Saturday as our Bods take on Truman State! WSGA will be giving free t-shirts to the first 50 students who make it in to the game!
NAMI Washburn Movie Night Morgan Hall, Room 158 6 p.m. EPIC (Campus Ministry) Living Learning Center, Myriad Room 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. High School Showcase Concert Garvey, White Concert Hall 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, November 3 Math Day
Wednesday, November 4 Fast-Forward Luncheon Memorial Union, Kansas Room 12:15 p.m. “Theology of the Body” Series Blair Room, LLC 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Have a GREAT rest of your week and GO BODS!!!
WU Symphony Orchestra Concert Garvey, White Concert Hall 7:30 p.m.
Caley 10/20/09 - Info. report, horse play, 10/23/09 - Info. report, alcohol violation, 10/24/09 - Info. report,, intrusion Washburn Institute of Technology, report Washburn Institute of Technology, report alarm, Memorial Union Bookstore, taken, no known suspect report taken, area checked, alarm reset taken, referred for disciplinary action
Don’t see your event in the calendar? Call the Review newsroom at 670-2506 to have your event included in an upcoming edition. It’s FREE. For upcoming Washburn athletic events, go to www.wusports.com.
will become their “buddy” for the day. The program is designed to give youth with a mental or physical disability the opportunity to play soccer, get some exercise, and socialize with other athletes. Volunteers are always welcome to show up and jump in. For more information, visit www.sunflowersoccer.org/parents/topsoccer.
Graphic by Karl Fundenberger
10/22/09 -Info. report, suspicious 10/23/09 - Theft of bicycle, Washburn activity, Morgan Hall, report taken, area Village, report taken checked, subject calling for ride, left 10/24/09 - Info. report, damabed bicycle area lock, Washburn Village, report taken, 10/23/09 - Info. report, damaged door, bicycle lock collected as evidence Benton Hall, report taken, photos taken
10/26/09 - Info. report, intrusion alarm, Garvey, report taken, custodian emptying trash 10/26/09 - Sexual battery, Mabee Library, report taken
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009 • News
A WU Tech haunting TOPEKA, Kan., October 26, 2009 – The public is invited to Washburn Tech’s Haunted Technical School this Thursday and Friday, October 29 and 30 with doors opening at 7:00 p.m. The Haunted Technical School will include a tour through campus with special effects and performers haunting our darkened buildings. The Haunted Technical School event is a fundraiser for the Washburn Tech Care Closet and our Scholarship Fund. The Care Closet provides financial assistance to our students in need to help them complete their education. Sometimes a tank of gas or bus fare to get to class one week or help with a bag of groceries can make all the difference in helping a student complete their career training program. The cost to enter the Haunted Technical School is $10 per person. Children age 10 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Dr. Roxanne Kelly, Dean, states “This is the first in what we see as many spooktacular events at Washburn Tech. I anticipate many people
enjoying our haunting as much as we do on a daily basis. Come and join us for some ghoulish delights!� Washburn Tech is a 2-year institution where students can obtain technical skills so they can go out and get a job. Approximately 90 percent of our graduates go either into jobs related to their training, into the military, or go on to further their education. Washburn Tech offers 24 career training programs in five employment clusters including Construction, Health Care, Human Services, Technology, and Transportation. Most of our career training programs carry around 48 credits. In addition, short-term continuing education and computer classes are also offered. Washburn Tech is located on Huntoon Street approximately onehalf mile east of Wanamaker Road in Topeka. For inquire about career training programs or future classes please visit our Web site www.washburntech.edu or contact Washburn Tech at 785.273.7140. - Press Release
Workshops lack attendance Continued from page A1 are assumed to have conflicted with many busy schedules. Even with the transition to a more traditional university, “90% of the student body works part or full time,� Vest observed. Early afternoon workshops such as the “Brain Food�, “Sleep for Success� and “How Big Is Your E?� workshops took place during regular class hours and attendance was either minimal or completely absent. 

“3,000 students� at any one time maybe undecided or wanting to declare a major, and yet only one student attended the Academic Advising workshop. That student was able to receive personalized attention from Advisors and benefited greatly. 
 Early spring enrollment is around the corner, and masses of students will be filing into the Advisor offices for feedback. But, because it is still a few
Happy Halloween
White papers Continued from page A1
weeks a way, students have chosen to procrastinate and wait until a closer date to talk with these lovely ladies. 

 Sleep deprivation, poor dietary decisions, and poor time management skills all have the ability to affect the mental and physical well-being of a student, and all have been topics of workshops. But, many will wait and procrastinate until the stress is intolerable before they find help and tips to manage it. While it may be aggrieving to sacrifice time, it can be greatly beneficial to prepare yourself through these wonderful workshops Washburn is offering to the student body. Meghan Ryan is a writer for the Washburn Review. Reach her at meghan.ryan@washburn.edu.
after suggestions are considered. “Planning should be an ongoing thing, it may be necessary to refine or tweak some of the goals,� said McQuere. And then the revised drafts will be sent to the executive council for deliberation. It is yet to be seen if the voice of faculty, students and staff will be snubbed out after the drafts enter the administrational decision-making stage. But McQuere said the current job is to present the executive council with information. The council will prepare the initial draft of the strategic plan from Nov. 11 to Dec. 3. The council will then present the initial draft to the Board of Regents. And that is only the beginning. Five more drafts will be reviewed and revised before President Farley
and the Strategic Planning Council finalize the plan in March of 2010. Before then, however, the council will need some feedback from the Washburn community, said Carol Vogel, student life sub-committee chair and Director of equal opportunities. “There weren’t any comments,â€? she said, “you would think nobody read it or they liked what they read‌ I don’t know how to get people involved—short of running around with a sandwich board.â€? The final impact of Strategic Planning is yet to be seen. “If you put it in a nice binder and put it on the shelf, nothing will ever come of it,â€? Vogel said. Ben Fitch is a senior mass media major. Reach him at benjamin.fitch@washburn. edu.
Graphic by Mikki Burcher, Washburn Review
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Opinion • Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A word of Immigration laws put the hurt on main street Board WASHBURN REVIEW caution for Editorial Halloween’s tricks, treats
While the leaves may be turning bright shades of red and orange, one would hardly guess that it’s fall in Kansas. It seems as though Mother Nature skipped right over fall and went straight into winter with cold, harsh winds and damp, dreary days. The weather alone is enough to make any student lose motivation midway through the semester. Despite missing the season of fall, there is one thing students won’t be skipping out on this month: Halloween. While it may not be the most popular national holiday, Halloween gives students a reason to celebrate midsemester, all while having a little fun and regaining the motivation to finish the rest of the semester. Halloween is also the one holiday this time of year that doesn’t carry a family-time obligation with it. Now don’t get me wrong – I think spending time with family is extremely important. But I have to admit, it’s nice to share the holiday spirit with the other group of people that knows you best – your friends. Although the weather might be cold, Halloween has never seemed to be the appropriate holiday for layers, especially among college-aged celebrants. In fact, the lack of clothing worn for costumes amazes me. Last year, when I was required to dress up for my waitressing job, I found it difficult to purchase a costume that didn’t make me appear ready to work another job after I finished at the restaurant (if you know what I mean). As we’ve grown older, the tradition of trick-or-treating has died out, much like the need for appropriate costumes. What have taken its place are the traditional college parties, amped up in scale by the holiday celebration. Both traditions, each with its pros and cons, FROM THE ultimately end in EDITOR the same fashion: an overconsumption of calories, and a lingering feeling of regret. No matter how you choose to spend the fall holiday, I encourage you to enjoy the time and have fun. If you spend the evening dressed up as a clown while trick-or-treating with your kid sister, more power to you (we’re college students after all – we like free stuff too). And if you choose to pursue the party route (I’m not going to deny that it doesn’t happen), remember that the scene might offer some nasty tricks, without the treats. Finally, I urge you all to be cautious with the places you go and the pictures you take. Without a Facebook policy on our campus, anything is game for our administration. A careless photo can turn into a serious nightmare, whether you were in the wrong or not. In no way do I support illegal behavior, so I’m not telling you to not get caught. However, something as small as an empty beer can appearing in the background of your profile picture can land you somewhere other than Washburn’s campus, and I don’t want innocent people to become victims. On a final note, I wish you all a very Happy Halloween. Be safe, enjoy yourselves and have fun. Nicole Stejskal is a junior mass media major. Reach her at nicole.stejskal@ washburn.edu.
Retractions Tesa DeForest took the senior art exhibit photo on B1 for Issue 9 Cody Lohse took the Ichabod photo on A6 for Issue 9
Bod on
street
the
Nicole Stejskal WASHBURN REVIEW
what it has been cracked up to be from the administration’s perspective, in large part due to the resistance of members of congress who represent The elephant in the room is disproportionately Latino districts, starting to get bigger as of late. the president has actually stayed on In what has been one of the the avenue of economic attacks on the least talked about subjects outside immigrant population by once again of election years, the current putting pressure on business inAmerica. administration has been quietly moving In what has been a recurring theme on the issue of immigration reform. of this administration, the president If readers will recall, has recently directed the president along with Immigration Control REVIEW’S and Enforcement (ICE) many other politicians VIEW made bold promises as they to start using American always do during election businesses’ compliance season on the issue of immigration . with government regulations regarding Among the promises made were the the reporting of income and residency ideas of amnesty and illegal immigrants status of their employees to punish them. paying back taxes and other fines. Specifically the way they’re doing That now stands in stark this, are to go through and audit records of contrast to the current policy that the businesses I-9 forms, which regardless administration is currently pursuing. of residential status are required for While the idea of amnesty isn’t quite anyone to work legally in the country.
“
The views expressed in the Review’s View are those of the Washburn Review editorial board, and not necessarily the views of Washburn University.
Washburn University is host to ongoing student seminars, all with one focus: surviving student life. Get tips from fellow WU students on how they study Students interviewed by Maggie Pilcher. and deal with stress.
What’s your best study tip?
Sadye Mages, senior
Adam Turner, senior
“
Most illegal aliens in this country are notorious for having fake documents of this nature and the administration is taking a, “hang them with paperwork” approach similar to that which the treasury department used to take down organized crime during prohibition. Unfortunately this now means that in addition to apprehending illegal immigrants, businesses that thought they were hiring legitimate employees now face the prospect of government fines, increased government oversight and a host of other punitive measures by this administration. Apparently, “Yes we can” also applies to the destruction of small business in America as well.
“I provide myself incentive to study; if I hit the books for an hour, I will reward myself with a pop or a cupcake, something I wouldn’t normally have.”
“I try to go to the gym and get myself energized. The endorphins from cardio workouts get me pumped up enough to focus on studying.”
“I have to take very thorough notes in all of my classes. Then, the night before or day of the test, I review, review, review.”
”
Jorge Delgado, junior
“As an international student, I read the material a lot and then have group study sessions; it makes it much easier to retain information.”
Josh Majors, freshman
Eli Woody, junior
“I usually just turn the T.V. on to something relaxing. Noise, oddly enough, helps me get my mind off of the stressors.”
Photos by Tesa Deforest, graphics by Maggie Pilcher
“When I have stuff on my mind but know I have to sleep, I just listen to music. Calming music is good, but it depends on my mood that night.”
Phone: (785) 670-2506 Fax: (785) 670-1131 www.washburnreview.org Print Editor-in-Chief Nicole Stejskal Managing Editor Ben Fitch News Editor Mikki Burcher Assistant News Editor Lauren Eckert Sports Editor Josh Rouse Assistant Sports Editor Eric Smith A&E Editor Regina Budden Assistant A&E Editor Leia Karimul Bashar Opinion Editor Robert Burkett Online Editor-in-Chief Valerie Caviglia Online Staff Max Bur Brian Dulle Kate Hampson Kasim Hardaway Mariauna Hernandez Jordan Shefte Copy Editor Josh King
Photo Editors Mike Goehring Matt Wilper
Tingting Xu, freshman
”
Graphics Kady Boyd Maggie Pilcher Ashley Shepard K.J. Thies Cameron Wrightsman Writers Brian Allen Michelle Boltz Jaime Brown Richard Kelly Jennie Loucks Meghan Ryan David Wiens Photographers Aaron Deffenbaugh Tesa DeForest Cody Lohse Lauren Mersman Mallory Shehi Advertising Manager Angie Marquart
Briana Betrus, sophomore
“Avoid sugar and sweets, slow down activities, and don’t cram things before bed. Try to go to bed with a relaxed attitude.”
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Assistant Copy Editor Ashley Nadeau
How do you sleep when you’re stressed? “It might sound bad, but when I really need to fall asleep, I drink. Whiskey is my drink of choice, but anything with alcohol would do the trick.”
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review sports washburn university
wednesday, october 28, 2009
Halloween Memories Members of the Lady Blues volleyball team are dressing up as Crayola crayons for Halloween. They shared some of their favorite Halloween experiences with assistant sports editor Eric Smith.
Ashley Shepard Junior hitter, Tickle Me Pink
Photo courtesy of Chris Hamm
El Capitan: Topeka RoadRunners captain Kurtis Anton, pictured above, scored the first goal of his North American Hockey League career last Saturday as the ‘Runners took down the Albert Lea Thunder 10-0. The ‘Runners return home Nov. 13 to face the Wichita Falls Wildcats.
‘Runners on scoring tear Richard Kelly WASHBURN REVIEW
shots in each game. Combined with their goal outburst and holding Albert Lea to such few shots, the Thunder The early struggle to score goals managed only two goals all weekend. looks to be well in the past. On Saturday night, the After battling to get pucks in the RoadRunners had two goals from net earier this four different season, the Topeka “ players and the RoadRunners captain of the used a strong team, Kurtis I think we’re effort on all sides Anton, scored confident. We still this past weekend his first ever to accumulate North American really have to have 20 goals in three Hockey League a tough week of games against goal. And with the Albert such success, practice. Lea Thunder, Ryan White, including a 10-0 who had a romp this past goal and three - Scott Langer Saturday night assists, could Head coach, RoadRunners at the Kansas see that the team E x p o c e n t r e ’s clicking in ” was Landon Arena. all areas over The three the weekend. wins over the “The team weekend included a defensive effort is having a great time and everybody that held the Thunder to under 15 on the team had fun tonight,” said
White. “The weekend itself was great and it makes everyone feel energetic and great.” Yet, this coming weekend, the RoadRunners will travel to Chesterfield, Mo., to play the St. Louis Bandits (11-1-1), who are coming off a 3-2 loss to the Texas Tornado, in a three game series. They are currently one point behind Topeka in the South Division of the NAHL with two games in hand. It’s a quick turnaround after a weekend against a much different Albert Lea team. But Topeka has confidence going into its matchup. “I think we’re confident. We still really have to have a tough week of practice,” said Scott Langer, RoadRunners head coach. “Having such success sometimes, it’s not the best thing going into playing a team like that. But we’re definitely hungry and want to play them. We’re ready for them.” And with experience at the Hardee’s Iceplex, the Bandits home
rink, Langer knows this weekend’s games will take that extra effort. The rink itself is international size, meaning there will be extra ice to cover as a team. The games will be a challenge for Topeka (11-2-2). “We just have to go in there and take it to them. We’re the underdog playing that team,“ said Langer. “They’ve got the national championship. So we have to be hungry.” After the strong weekend, Edgars Lipsberg of the ‘Runners is now tied for 10th place in the NAHL in points, with eight goals and eight assists for 16 points. Erik Higby and Ryan White are both tied for 17th place in the NAHL with 15 points apiece. Topeka returns home after St. Louis and a week off to play the Wichita Falls Wildcats on Nov. 13 and 14. Game time is 7:05 p.m.
Kate Hampson Senior setter, Cerulean Blue
Richard Kelly is a sophomore mass media major. Reach him at richard. kelly@washburn.edu.
Washburn’s form of wildcat formation formidable Robert Burkett WASHBURN REVIEW
The saying, “what’s old is new again,” is always heard when talking about the hot offense of the moment and the run-gun offense is no different. Now, many readers might not realize that they have heard of this offense before. Head coach Craig Schurig and the Washburn football team call the offense the “run-gun” but most football fans commonly know it as the wildcat offense. The offensive formation is used to create a power running situation in a game while still giving the option to throw. It’s meant to confuse a defense and throw it off balance. The quarterback is usually split wide like a wide receiver leaving the quarterback’s position for a running back. In some cases, the quarterback is taken off the field in favor of an extra blocker. Either option creates a situation where the offense isn’t delayed by a handoff between the quarterback and the running back. The running back is able to immediately take off with the ball. The addition in some cases of an extra blocker creates further mismatch by pitting a guard or tackle against a smaller defensive back or linebacker and helps to create mismatches in the running game. “We like to run the set on first downs in the game sometimes to give the defense one more thing on their plate they have to worry about and account for,” said Schurig. This offensive concept is not
“I liked being Ninja Turtles freshman year. We went and got size 12 husky kids from Wal-Mart. They were tight. I was Donatello.”
“I had Halloween in the snow a lot growing up in Colorado. We had to come up with creatively warm costumes.”
Courtney Wallman Sophomore hitter, Purple Mountain Majesty
72 75
67 57
65 87
2 22
9
8
29
Graphic by Josh Rouse
Wildbod: In the run-gun formation, more commonly known as the wildcat formation, running back Vershon Moore (No. 29) takes over the role of quarterback, while quarterback Dane Simoneau (9) moves to the wideout spot. a new one however, as teams at the high school, collegiate and even professional level have been using the wildcat since 1905. It was originally called to as the “single-wing” and was the brainchild of the University of Pittsburgh’s Glenn Scobey “Pop” Warner, the father of modern football In the case of Washburn, the inclusion of this somewhat specialized offense started about five years ago when coach Schurig was looking for a way to get Brandon Walker-one of the better athletes to come through the football program-on the field to make an impact in games.
Walker had been recruited as a quarterback and had exceptional speed and Schurig immediately thought of the offense that Kansas State University had been using under Bill Snyder for the past decade and a half prior to then as a way to get Walker on the field. “Brandon was just such a great athlete that we wanted to do anything we could to get him out there on the field to make an impact,” said Schurig. This season opportunities have once again presented themselves and the run-gun is back for an encore
this season. The main catalyst for implementing the specialized set has been the unique skill set that redshirt freshman running back Vershon Moore brings to the team. “Vershon is a very good player who played quarterback in high school and we felt his passing abilities and his poise from that experience fit perfectly in the run-gun set,” said Schurig. Robert Burkett is a junior mass media major. Reach him at robert.burkett@ washburn.edu.
“I was Pocahontas for three years straight because I loved Pocahontas so much.” Other members dressing up as crayons include Mollie Lacy with Sunshine Yellow, Sami McHenry with Macaroni and Cheese and Abby Wittman with Electric Lime.
Sports • Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A6
Six matches left for Blues
Sports Report
Eric Smith WASHBURN REVIEW
The Washburn volleyball team has lost all three of its losses this season by the score of 3-2. And in the next two and a half weeks, the Lady Blues will have a chance to get even with each of those teams, beginning with Nebraska-Omaha at 7 p.m. tonight in Lee Arena and Central Missouri at 7 p.m. on Friday in Warrensburg, Mo. “We have six matches left and three of them are against teams that beat us in five games,” said coach Chris Herron. “We’re trying to, and I want to make sure we clarify this word, avenge the losses. We’re not looking for revenge necessarily. Both the teams we play this week are exceptional teams. Both are having great years.” The Lady Blues (26-3, 10-3) currently sit at third in conference behind first place Central Missouri (12-1, 26-3)
Football Standings Conf. 7-0 5-2 5-2 4-3 4-3 3-4 3-4 3-4 1-6 0-7
Overall 8-1 7-2 7-2 6-3 5-4 5-4 5-4 3-5 2-7 1-8
( )- Division II national ranking (Top 25)
Results Oct. 24
Games Saturday
NWM 22, WU 19, OT TSU at WU, 1 p.m. UCM 49, UNO 31
MWSU at ESU, 1 p.m.
MSSU 35, MWSU 34
MSSU at UCM, 1:30 p.m.
ESU 30, TSU 24, OT PSU 59, FHSU 41
PF 368 313 367 356 301 277 274 190 192 155
PA 142 185 252 194 218 302 247 251 294 313
Intramurals introduces bouldering
Final WU reg. season game Nov. 7
Eric Smith WASHBURN REVIEW
as they move across the wall. Each route has a specific amount of holds to grab and three points are deducted for each The Washburn Student Recreation hold missed. Every time a climber falls and Wellness Center offers a plethora off the wall, they lose 10 points. With of intramural activities for students to time, one point is deducted for every choose from. And each year, it adds new 30 seconds beginning at the five minute ones including the rock wall bouldering mark on each route. contest, taking place at the SRWC from The competition is broken into 4pm – 8 p.m., Nov. 9-12. four divisions for men and John Cummings, SRWC INTRAMURAL women with beginner and program coordinator, said intermediate. PROGRAM Rock wall bouldering is an Cummings said aspect of rock climbing that Washburn senior Johnathon is in a much safer environment being Blake really enjoys climbing on the rock only two or three feet off the ground. wall and bouldering and is probably one “It’s an opportunity to really get the of the most experienced climbers on feel of what rock climbing is without really campus. having to deal with the safety equipment Blake, who used to work at the or the height or anything like that,” said SRWC, has participated in most of the Cummings. “Because bouldering, by rock wall climbing intramural events and definition, is really traversing across has enjoyed the experience of rock wall the wall horizontally. There’s very little climbing since his freshman year. vertical movement.” “It’s a unique outlook for exercising Participants just come for one of the for those who don’t want to maybe lift four days and compete in three separate weights or run on a treadmill forever. You routes on the rock wall, and rock wall can do the rock wall,” said Blake. “The certification is not required. Climbers first few times you do it it’s a rush. start out with 100 points and are judged “It offers a different challenge, a on the criteria of holds, falls and time. different workout. Good upper body Holds are the things climbers grab onto workout being as how it can get your
WU at ESU, 1 p.m.
PSU at UNO, 1 p.m.
NWM at FHSU, 2 p.m.
Volleyball Standings
Conf. Central Missouri (4) 12-1 Emporia St. (9) 11-1 Washburn (8) 10-3 Nebraska-Omaha (20) 8-5 Truman St. (18) 8-5 Pittsburg St. (24) 8-5 Missouri Southern 4-8 Southwest Baptist 3-9 NW Missouri St. 3-10 Fort Hays St. 3-11 Missouri Western 1-12
Overall 26-3 24-3 26-3 18-8 20-9 18-9 11-15 10-18 12-17 7-20 8-18
Sets won Sets lost 79 19 75 19 84 16 67 33 70 45 63 38 48 59 44 64 46 62 31 67 36 61
( )- Division II national ranking (Top 25)
WU recent results Oct. 24
WU upcoming schedule Tonight
Oct. 23
Friday
Washburn at Central Missouri, 7 p.m.
Washburn 3, NW Missouri 1
Washburn at Missouri Southern, 7 p.m.
Oct. 20
Nov. 3
Week Eight
Soccer Standings
Nebraska-Omaha (7) Truman St. (5) Central Missouri (9) NW Missouri St. Washburn Southwest Baptist Missouri Western Missouri Southern Emporia St.
Conf. 11-1-1 11-1-0 8-3-1 6-6-1 5-6-1 4-7-0 4-7-1 2-10-0 1-11-0
Overall 12-4-1 12-2-2 9-5-2 10-6-1 8-7-1 6-7-2 6-9-1 4-12-0 1-13-1
GF 41 33 24 19 20 27 21 14 9
the games
GA 18 9 10 16 24 30 23 37 40
( )- South Central Regional ranking (Top 10)
WU recent results Oct. 24
Washburn 2, SW Baptist 2, OT
Oct. 22
WU upcoming schedule Thursday
Truman State at Washburn, 6 p.m.
Saturday
Nebraska-Omaha 4, Washburn 0
Washburn at Emporia State, 1 p.m.
Washburn 1, NW Missouri 0, OT
Washburn at Missouri Southern, 6 p.m.
Oct. 17
Eric Smith is a senior mass media major. Reach him at eric.smith1@ washburn.edu.
w e i v e Staff Pick ‘Em R e Th
Washburn 3, Missouri Western 0 Nebraska-Omaha at Washburn, 7 p.m. Washburn 3, Truman State 0
adrenaline going.” Blake, as an avid rock wall enthusiast, said he knows the Washburn rock wall pretty well actually tying for the title in last year’s rock wall competition and is excited for the new bouldering competition. “I’ve made quite a few bouldering routes and I’ve had some chances to work on it. I hope I have a pretty decent shot [to win],” said Blake. While the SRWC is putting on the bouldering event, the PE 306 class administration of athletics, intramurals and PE, taught by Ross Friesen, is assisting. Alex Willis, a student in the class, said they will be there to help with registration and running the event. “It’ll be a lot of fun,” said Willis. “Just something different. There’s different aspects to it because there’s no harness and you go across the wall instead of vertically.” Willis said Friesen made the bouldering event a class project as something to help them see what planning an event like bouldering would take.
the staff
NW Missouri St. (3) Central Missouri (19) Missouri Western (23) Washburn Nebraska-Omaha Fort Hays St. Pittsburg St. Missouri Southern Emporia St. Truman St.
and second place Emporia State, who challenging week.” Washburn plays in its final regular season Junior digger Molly Smith said as match of the year at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13 in the season is winding down, the need Lee Arena. to win becomes more evident with the “We had a good week last week,” team’s attitude. said Herron. “But it’s like I tell the team “We definitely feel the pressure,” all the time, you’re only as good as your said Smith. “And I think the mood at next one. practice being around everybody is just “You’re trying to remain healthy and really excited. We want to be able to hopefully your team’s peaking prove ourselves and finish at the end of the year and the season strong because playing your best volleyball.” WASHBURN last year we didn’t finish The last time the Lady VOLLEYBALL the season as strong as we Blues faced the Mavericks and would’ve liked. Jennies, both matches went “So I think we have a lot down to the wire, and Herron said in the to prove to ourselves and everyone that tight matches, it’s hard to pinpoint things we can beat these top teams. We’re real his team should’ve done differently. excited for the chance to get to play these “When both of those matches are teams.” that close,” he said, “there’s always some things you could’ve done differently. And so could they. Eric Smith is a senior mass media ma“Those teams have great players and jor. Reach him at eric.smith1@ are coached well. So I just look at it as a washburn.edu.
Oct. 29
JoRo
E*Smith
Mike G.
Tiny D.
Aaron
Roboto
Truman State at Washburn
WASHBURN
WASHBURN
WASHBURN
WASHBURN
WASHBURN
WASHBURN
Kansas at Texas Tech
TEXAS TECH
TEXAS TECH
TEXAS TECH
KANSAS
TEXAS TECH
TEXAS TECH
Kansas State at #22 Oklahoma
KANSAS STATE
OKLAHOMA
OKLAHOMA
OKLAHOMA
OKLAHOMA
OKLAHOMA
#3 Texas @ #13 Oklahoma State
TEXAS
TEXAS
TEXAS
TEXAS
TEXAS
OKLAHOMA ST.
#4 USC at #10 Oregon
USC
USC
OREGON
USC
USC
OREGON
Miami Dolphins at New York Jets
DOLPHINS
JETS
JETS
JETS
DOLPHINS
DOLPHINS
Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints
SAINTS
SAINTS
SAINTS
SAINTS
SAINTS
SAINTS
Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens
BRONCOS
RAVENS
RAVENS
BRONCOS
BRONCOS
BRONCOS
Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers
VIKINGS
VIKINGS
VIKINGS
PACKERS
VIKINGS
VIKINGS
New York Giants at Philadephia Eagles EAGLES
EAGLES
EAGLES
GIANTS
EAGLES
GIANTS
LAST WEEK
4-6
7-3
6-4
4-6
7-3
6-4
OVERALL RECORDS
40-30
50-20
39-31
44-26
38-32
43-27
$35.00 plus tax The Review Staff Pick ‘Em is a weekly feature where we pick the winners of college and pro football games around the country. Check back weekly to see our standings! Share the price and the fun!
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wednesday, october 28, 2009
Something old, something new Washburn Wind Ensemble weds contemporary and classical music in concert Brian Allen WASHBURN REVIEW
The Washburn Wind Ensemble performed its “Something Old... Something Blue” concert Friday night, Sept. 23, at White Concert Hall. The ensemble is an audition group based around wind instruments such as flutes, oboes, clarinets and brass of every kind; supported by a sizable percussion section and a couple of string instruments. The result is a big sound just shy of a full orchestra and an exciting sound to go with it. “The source material for [the old] pieces comes from years, centuries ago even, and it’s been reworked in a modern way,” said Mark Norman, director of bands explaining the music of his first Washburn concert. “Some are Appalachian singing hymn songs — ‘Big Singings’ is what they called them. The blues part, a piece called blue shades, has a lot of jazz elements in it. [It] has a lot of blues notes, flat thirds, flat fifths, flat sevenths, flat ninths, so the whole piece is based on those intervals and because of that it sounds like a jazz piece, but it’s worked into a classical piece.” The program opened with Fanfare Canzonique, a rousing all-brass number that made Hail to the Chief sound weak by comparison. The fanfare was made all the more special by part of the brass section that performed in the aisle for a surround-sound experience. Michael Averett, director of brass studies, was there to help out. “We’re very excited,” he said. “We’re playing great literature, great variety, featuring different members of the ensemble and faculty.” The rest of the ensemble joined the brass for the Shepherd’s Hey piece. It
Photo by Brian Allen, Washburn Review
Musical fusion: The Washburn Wind Ensemble takes the stage at White Concert Hall for its “Something Old... Something Blue” concert Friday night. The ensemble performed songs that came from a variety of genres, including jazz, folk, Evangelical, and even Appalachian Christian songs. Washburn vocal teacher Lee Snook sang with the ensemble during several hymns. was inspired by English folk and dance music and seemed reminiscent of the old big orchestral dance numbers in movies such as “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.” Then things were cooled off by the Blue Shades number, the favorite of Grace Shepler, freshman flute and oboe player. “Listen to the difficulty of the pieces and variety of beats,” said Shepler. “I would describe the Blue Shades jazzy sound as Benny Goodman meets West Side Story. Just
play it cool boy, real cool.” Some of the most interesting pieces of the night were the Southern Harmony selections. The baritone who sang the vocals a capella was Lee Snook, a voice teacher at Washburn since 1990. Snook described the style of music as “Southern Christian, Evangelical [and] Appalachian Jesus songs.” The pre-Civil War hymns used a call and response style, the leader would cue the congregation that followed. In this performance, Snook would sing a few verses and the ensemble responded
with vocals, instruments and even some clapping that sounded like hillbilly hambone leg slapping. The finale, Niagara Falls, was described in the program as a 10- minute musical ride over the Niagara River with an occasional stop at a haunted house or wax museum along the way. It was a sophisticated and challenging piece with a variety of tones, rhythms and counter points. A second set of ears would have helped to appreciate everything that was going on. After the concert, Raford Rush, 64,
father of the tenor saxophone player, said the performance went well. “I liked it quite a lot,” said Rush. “The last one they played was a very difficult piece.” And that same positive feeling was found throughout, perhaps best summed up by 5-year-old Eden Lester. “I think it’s a lovely time and I’m glad to be here.” Brian Allen is a returning Washburn alumnus. Reach him at brian.allen@ washburn.edu.
Check out www.washburnreview.org for puzzle answers! Free Maltese Puppies! Are you interested in a fluffy, fun and FREE Maltese puppy? They are a perfect gift for the holidays! Please contact Richard Robert at richardrobert06@live.com.
Arts & Entertainment • Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A8
Gary’s Pumpkin Patch a local thriller Maggie Pilcher WASHBURN REVIEW
Tired of the same Halloween decorations and events running in Topeka? Want to get in touch with nature while enjoying some of the most unique activities available locally? If this is the case, take a short drive south to Grantville, where Gary’s Pumpkin Patch hosts an array of exciting activities. Located just 10 minutes from Topeka, Gary’s Pumpkin Patch, formally known as Gary’s Berries, offers a variety of fun for the family and friends. The main attraction is the corn maze, which sprawls across eight acres of land. Test your navigational abilities in the day, or enter at your own risk by moonlight. Each year, the field is cut into a different pattern, usually associated with agriculture or Halloween. This year’s theme was a tractor. “I went for the first time last weekend, and I have to admit that I wasn’t as capable with direction as I thought I would be,” said Don Bailey, junior. “I entered the maize when the sun began to set, and didn’t make it to the exit until well after dark. I had a really good time, though.” If getting lost in a maze is too much to handle, don’t worry. There are many
other activities to take part in. There is a tire maze designed for youngsters who tag along, and a Halloween-inspired hay rack ride is offered. Nothing is more festive during autumn than an oldfashioned hay rack ride. Also provided by Gary’s Pumpkin Patch is the FrightMare Farm, a haunted house tour hosted each Friday and Saturday night beginning in October. Stroll the maize, pick out the perfect pumpkin and then proceed to get spooked. “I go to the maze every year, but the main reason I go is the FrightMare Farm,” said Brian Seese, sophomore. “I wait until Halloween season because Gary’s Pumpkin Patch has the best and closest haunted house.” In addition to the maize, hay rack ride and haunted house, there are pig races every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Gary’s Pumpkin Patch is also home to Topeka’s first jumping pillow, a giant rocking chair and the first ever Goat Mountain. “It’s a tradition for my friends and I to make the journey to Gary’s Pumpkin Patch around Halloween season,” said Camrey Gayer, freshman. “I love the atmosphere and getting in touch with the outside.” Maggie Pilcher is a freshman mass media major. Reach her at margaret.pilcher@ washburn.edu.
Photo by Mallory Shehi, Washburn Review
A-maze-in corn: Gary’s Pumpkin Patch is a popular fall attraction, and each year thousands of people come to navigate their way through the giant corn maze, which sprawls across eight acres of land. This year’s corn maze was shaped like a tractor.
Haunted houses: Go to HELL for Halloween Meghan Ryan WASHBURN REVIEW
Pumpkins are ripening on the vines, the leaves are changing and the temperature is dropping rapidly. It is finally October. A favorite time of year for many, Halloween allows fully grown adults to play dress up and decorate their yards with fake murder scenes, and cemeteries. It’s the only day of the year youngsters are allowed to talk to strangers and take their candy. We college-aged students may be “too old” for trick-or-treating, but our desire to get spooked is still strong. Surviving midterms deserves reward, so treat yourself to a fright filled night out on a Topeka Ghost Tour or Haunted House in Kansas City. Kansas City is striking fear into the hearts of its visitors, a n d
this time it’s the crime rates. Located in the West Bottoms district of KC, four major haunted houses occupy old buildings amidst the decrepit stockyards and warehouses. The Edge of Hell is nicknamed “Kansas City’s Granddaddy of All Haunted Houses” because it was the first major spooky attraction in the area. The Edge of Hell is five stories tall with a slide that descends the entire height of the building. Special effects, animatronics and made up theatrical characters do their best to make you jump and scream. Bats, raging dogs, and Dracula among others try to spike your heart rate. One character, Ratman, appears to bite the heads off of live rodents. Ophidiopobes, those that have a fear of snakes, beware. A live 24-foot-long, 300-pound reticulated python occupies the haunted house, along with an anaconda, and boa constrictors. The Beast is equipped with lurking monsters, cemeteries, and an eight foot alligator.
The Beast features Werewolf Forest which is foggy and difficult to find the exit. Do not bother asking the Werewolf for help —he will only breathe down your neck, sending chills down your spine when you least expect it. The Macabre Cinema and the Chambers of Edgar Allen Poe have also sprung up in the West Bottoms area. The Macabre Cinema is a haunted 1930s movie theater in which 30 dramatic horror scenes from classic and contemporary movies are played out as you walk through the building. There are four floors and a dungeon for people who are brave enough. The Chambers of Edgar Allen Poe is based on Poe’s writings, tales and poems. This scary attraction is not for Lit majors only, these scenes prey on primal fears of all mortals such as being buried alive, suffocating and
claustrophobia. Each of these KC haunted houses is $20 per person, and $33 for a combo of The Edge o f Hell and The Beast or The
M a c a b r e Cinema and The Chambers o f Edgar Allen Poe. More information for all attractions can be found at theedgeofhell.com. Three in-town, spooky, haunted tours are offered in Topeka, which saves gas and time and still induces goose bumps. Ghost Tours of Kansas offers
tours of West, Downtown, and North Topeka. The West Topeka program tells the stories of haunted hospitals and a spirited country club that are visited. Downtown Topeka explores the capitol building, the haunted Topeka High School, and the small Curtis family cemetery. The eerie exhibits of North Topeka feature the Overland train station, a collapsed bridge, and a bar fit for Hollywood and the Albino lady that haunts it. All ghost tours are for ages 12 and older, and costs $19.50 per person. For Tickets or more information, check out ghosttourkansas.com.
Meghan Ryan is a sophomore political science and German major. Reach her at meghan.ryan@washburn.edu.
Halloween origins steeped in Celtic traditions Regina Budden WASHBURN REVIEW
Halloween Fun Fact: Jack-o-lanterns were originally made out of turnips until people discovered that pumpkins were easier to carve.
This Halloween (or All Hallows’ Eve, in its proper name) the streets will fill with children looking for sugar highs, parents dreading dentist bills, teens looking for mischief and the party c r o w d celebrating at any excuse. But that’s not how it started. Halloween is the modern incarnation of the Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced Sah-ween, because Celtic spellings and pronunciations are worlds apart), which was first celebrated about 1000 B.C. Most Celtic European cultures had some sort of commemoration of Samhain on Nov. 1, the Celtic new year. Activities began on Oct. 31, the last day of the old year, the day of the last harvests before frost set in. It was the day that farmers would decide which of their livestock to slaughter in order to survive the winter. It was also the day that the line between the living and dead blurred. The eve of Samhain was one filled with merriment and games, but also
superstition and danger. The Celts believed that dead spirits as well as demons, fairies and other haunts freely intermingled with the living people. That was a happy thought in that ones beloved relatives were able to dance and sing right alongside their descendents, but it was also a very dangerous predicament in regard to the not-so-beloved deceased. The night of Samhain eve, the people would make sacrifices to keep themselves and their children safe from the darker spirits. Most Celtic cultures of Europe had a celebration of Samhain similar to this, but, in America, our true Halloween heritage comes from the celebrations of a particular Celtic country: Ireland. Irish lore dictated that on the eve of Samhain, the Morrighan, Celtic goddess of death, sex and rebirth (to name a few) would meet up with her love, the Daghda, who was the Irish god of light and life. They would procreate while straddling the river Unius, symbolically joining the lands of death and life for the year to come. The child that they created on the eve of Samhain would become the new
year, and would relinquish its hold to the next child they created in that manner. This bizarre union was necessary in the Irish-Celtic culture, in that it preserved the balance of life and death, light and dark. If one were to overpower the other, then the chaos of Samhain’s eve would last for a year. Now, fast-forward to about 600 A.D. The Romans and, in turn, Christians took over the previously Celtic-pagan countries. They realized that to try to stop such strong festivals as Samhain would be futile, so instead, Pope Boniface IV declared November 1 “All Saints’ Day,” or alternately, “All Hallows’ Day.” In this way, the Church allowed festivities celebrating life on that day, and allowed the darker activities concerning the dead on the night before, All Hallows’ Evening, or Halloween.
Regina Budden is a junior mass media major. Reach her at regina.budden@ washburn.edu.