February 12, 2020
Volume 146, Issue 17
washburnreview.org
Mobility barriers persist, spurs discourse Wesley Tabor Washburn Review
A Washburn Review staff member and two other students were on board the Henderson elevator last week when it suddenly stalled on the second floor. One of the students was Deb Lamere, a sophomore anthropology major, who uses a manual wheelchair to get around campus. “When we learned that she [Deb Lamere] had been stranded in Henderson, some people over here [in the military-student success center] told her that they would carry her and the wheelchair out of the building if she so wished,” said Washburn’s Military Transition Coordinator, Chris Bowers. The success center’s receptionist immediately sent over VA members Ryan Murphy, Thomas Davis and Austin Jasper. “They were planning on carrying me down the stairs,” said Lamere. Luckily, the elevator was reset by facilities services allowing the students to reach the first floor and exit the building. Lamere’s friends met her when the elevator doors opened – causing a sense of relief among the group. Director of Facilities Services, Eric Just, provided an explanation for the elevator’s malfunction. “We replaced a door operator in the Henderson elevator last week,” said Just in an email Tuesday. “This was initiated when the door did not shut properly with the individuals on board.” Lamere shared that this isn’t the first time
she’s struggled to get around campus. “I’ve lost control and spilled out of my wheelchair – twice in one day actually,” said Lamere. Uneven sidewalks, steep ramps, slick conditions, inadequate salt treatment, entryways and doorways all cause varying levels of difficulty for those who are disabled. Some of these mobility barriers have been proven culprits for Lamere on Washburn’s campus. Austin Jasper, a nontraditional student and friend of Lamere’s, understands how limiting certain environments can be on disabled individuals. “My father is quadriplegic, and it can be restricting at times,” said Jasper. “I lived in San Diego, and there were times when my father couldn’t access a restroom at a restaurant. He would have to go around the block to the Marriott hotel, use the restroom and come back.” The conversation spurs discourse around campus and public accommodations. “Washburn is a prestigious school, and it should be held to a high standard,” said Jasper. “Washburn does an excellent job, but it’s the small details that get overlooked.” Another concern of Lamere’s is that of who controls the conversation when considering the basis of accommodations. “This impacts a generally quieter community. It’s important to me to make sure everyone is accounted and accommodated for – not just myself,” said Lamere. Students can submit barrier report forms. The forms are sent to Equal Opportunity Director,
Pam Foster. “I receive and review the barrier report forms and determine the appropriate person they should go to in order to address the concern,” said Foster in an email Tuesday. “The form goes to several people [i.e. someone from IT, facilities, HR, Diversity and Inclusion, Tech] so if I’m unavailable, someone will be able to act in my absence.” Foster stated later in the email that facilities services also plays a role. “If there is a barrier to program/activity access, facilities services will determine whether we are out of compliance with the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.” Just confirmed that facilities services personnel are responsible for checking and verifying areas of concern on campus. Individuals can request that they reevaluate specific areas, room numbers, entrances and program/event spaces when they fill out a barrier report. The Stoffer Science Hall ramp has been added to the list for slope verification, per ADA regulations, as a result of this article. This article can be accessed online at www. washburnreview.org for those interested in filling out a barrier report. In the near future, The Washburn Review team will cover, in detail, emergency evacuation procedures for the Henderson Learning Resources Center and other campus facilities.
WASHBURN REVIEW - Wesley Tabor
WASHBURN REVIEW - Wesley Tabor
Inaccessible ramp?: Students have reportedly struggled to access Stoffer science hall via the front entrance ramp. They said the ramp does not receive adequate salt treatment in icy conditions.
Henderson’s history: The Henderson Learning Resources Center is notorious for its elevator issues. The building’s first floor restrooms were recently renovated to comply with ADA regulations.
Understanding the process of becoming a US citizen Alyssa Storm Washburn Review
Jason Miller, assistant professor of sociology/anthropology, gave a lecture about the steps it takes to become an American citizen Feb. 7 in Henderson 103. Going along with the WUmester theme this semester, this is one of many lectures about citizenship that Washburn University will hold. Miller explained that an immigrant visa, student visa, seasonal worker visa, professional athlete visa and some others are offered. The only way an immigrant can get their green card is through the immi-
grant visa path. There is a preconceived notion that if you marry a US citizen you automatically become a citizen, but that is not the case. You still have to go through the naturalization process, but marrying a citizen does have the benefit of cutting time off of the process. Another way to speed up the naturalization process is by serving in the military for a year. When it comes to receiving your visa, there are multiple types of visas one could acquire. The most popular is a family based visa, which involves a family member who already has their green card. Next is an employment visa, in
which the employer becomes a sponsor through the whole process. There is also a lottery visa, which is exactly like it sounds. If you know how the lottery works, you know the odds of winning the lottery. Another form of immigration is coming over as a refugee or an asylum seeker. Asylum seekers and refugees must prove to the Department of Homeland Security that they have a well-founded fear of persecution. Lastly, you can get a visa if you are a victim of human trafficking or domestic violence. This falls under an asylum seeker visa. Both the refugee and asylum seeker visas are free.
SRWC starts collaboration with Special Olympics Savannah Workman Washburn Review
Washburn has home court advantage, welcoming a new unified basketball team. Jan. 29 was the opening day of practice for Washburn’s first unified collaboration of volunteers from the Special Olympics. Games will follow every Wednesday at 6 p.m. until March 3. America is starting to see more national partnerships between colleges and high schools. In fact, according to Washburn’s Recreations Director, Whitney Slater, Washburn Rural High school was
Continued on page 2
Continued on page 2
ONLINE
Bods fall in an MIAA thriller
recognized by ESPN as one of the top 20 programs in the country. “We felt like it was a good building point for us,” said Slater. “Right now, we’re starting with unified basketball, and hopefully we’ll be able to offer some other activities. Basketball was our first starting point with this partnership.” Providing an inclusive environment was the primary motivation for starting the program. Dan Rinholt is the facilitator of the team, and he is excited to see the number of athletes that are joining the program – over 30 people.
WBSU educates with Don’t
Gallery: NOTO First Friday
Gallery: Men’s basketball
Touch My Hair
art walk
win by 1
2
NEWS
washburnreview.org
People of character: Flonzie Brown Wright signs copies of her book “Looking Back to Move Ahead.” She has worked closely with activists such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Alice Walker and many others.
Flonzie Brown Wright provides perspective Jada Johnson Washburn Review
Civil rights influencer Flonzie Brown Wright is unknowingly connected to activist Martin Luther King Jr. and was on campus Monday to share her memories during one of America’s most prominent eras. You remember the time in public school when names like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and others came up in conversation. These names give students a small percentage of individuals that impacted the movement from the late 1940s to 1960s. Born in Farmhaven, Mississippi, Brown Wright graduated from the Institute of Politics at Millsaps College after pursuing concentrations in pre-law, political science and black history. “We had to be people of character,” said Brown Wright. “You have to do right for the right reason.” Brown Wright recalled her time working with King during the civil rights movement, and how she de-
cided to act – joining the movement following the assassination of activist Medger Evers. It wasn’t always easy however, as Brown Wright recalled the countless times her and her children’s lives were threatened. She’d been arrested and shot at numerous times. When her children’s lives were endangered, Brown Wright had officially met her ceiling. Brown Wright entered a police station armed with a gun and a message that her children were off limits. A message she will never forget. “You barely hear of black women within the civil rights movement. You always hear of the men leading in so many movements, and it doesn’t reflect the full truth of what really happened,” said Clarence Williams, senior service administration major. Brown Wright highlighted the accomplishments of Sojourner Truth, a black abolitionist and women’s rights activist. “Women were the glue, because they protected our brothers,” said
Brown Wright. Following the conversation, copies of Brown Wright’s best-seller “Looking Back to Move Ahead” were sold and signed. Brown Wright also took photos with guests. “She did a phenomenal job speaking from the heart and connecting with the audience,” said Tracy Routsong, professor of communication studies. Brown Wright closed with some advice for attendees. “If your space is no better when you leave it than when you found it, you need to redefine your journey,” said Brown Wright. Brown Wright’s impact on the civil rights movement is widely underemphasized and unknown — as Wright shared that she’s had the privilege of knowing nearly 85% of the women featured in “I Dream a World: Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America.” The exhibition, by Brian Lanker, will be featured at the Mulvane Art Museum and will open Feb. 14 to June 13.
Continued: SRWC starts collaboration “I think it’s a great opportunity for the athletes and for the partners at Washburn to see how they interact with each other,” said Rinholt. “If we have lots of people that want to come out and do this, we might try to do football or soccer.” Burgeoning relationships are forming as Washburn students integrate new opportunities for Special Olympics athletes at the college level. Washburn’s basketball team held a clinic at Lee arena Feb. 9 for those in the Special Olympics community, signing posters and teaching technique. Beau Renyer,
a Topeka Junior Blues basketball team player, joined Washburn’s new unified team. “I like it,” said Renyer. “I learned more about basketball [and] how to shoot. That’s my favorite part.” Always on the go, Renyer started playing when he was 10 years old. He admires his family that played basketball for the University of Kansas and Kansas State University. The Washburn unified basketball team plays every Wednesday at 6 p.m., with the next game being this Wednesday, Feb. 12. The sport will also have a tournament at 6 p.m. March 4.
WASHBURN REVIEW - Alyssa Storm
5:38 p.m. Feb. 1. A report was made from the 1500 BLK of SW 21st St. TPD responded to assist for a disturbance.
That’s what you get for ditching class 11:54 p.m. Feb. 1. A report was made from parking lot 9 at Washburn. A traffic stop occurred resulting in a warrant arrest.
Medical report 4:14 p.m. Feb. 2. A report was made from Morgan Hall. A welfare check was performed.
‘I always feel like somebody’s watching me’ 7:50 a.m. Feb. 3. A report was made from the 1300 BLK of SW 21st St. A suspicious person was reported.
Well aren’t you just a bit creepy 12:39 p.m. Feb. 3. A report was made from Stoffer Science Hall. A suspicious person was reported.
It’s in the past 5:15 p.m. Feb. 4. A report was made from parking lot 1 at Washburn. A report of a past non-injury accident was made.
Another one
photo courtesy of Dan Rinholt
Collaboration: Washburn students collaborate with volunteers from the Special Olympics. The program has started with basketball.
Continued: Becoming a US citizen
Understand the rules: Jason Miller explains the long immigration process. This was one of many immigration lectures that will be offered this semester as part of WUmester.
I got your back friend
There are many lines to get into when you are applying for a visa. These lines have many hoops to jump through. The longest a person has been in a line to receive a visa is since 1996. It is easy to get cut from one of the lines. If you can’t get someone to sponsor you, then it is a dead end. Once you get your green card, you can continue the naturalization process by being 18 years old, being a permanent resident for at least five years, having a good moral character, and having a basic knowledge of U.S. civics. The quiz is 10 random questions out of 100, and you have to get 6 correct to pass. Miller offered the quiz to the room and everyone was having trouble, even the profes-
sors. “It doesn’t necessarily surprise me [that the students in his immigration class fail],” said Miller. “I think the questions are oddly specific.” There are many gray areas in the immigration process leaves wiggle room for officials to make certain rules as they go along. “I think they leave the gray areas on purpose,” said professor Miquel Gonzalez-Abellas. “So, depending where the wind blows, they can actually make one color or another.” The immigration process takes over an estimated 20 years. There is no shortcut or easy way to do it. It can be a long, hard process that is confusing even to some U.S. citizens.
BOD MAGAZINE A Student Media Publication
Spring 2020 issue releasing on February 19th at the Career Fair
12:10 a.m. Feb. 5. A report was made from SW 21st St and SW College Ave. A traffic stop occurred resulting in a warrant arrest.
Advanced showing 8:10 a.m. Feb. 5. A report was made from the Mulvane Art Museum. The 2nd floor alarm was activated.
Information only 7:50 a.m. Feb. 7. A report was made from parking lot 9 at Washburn. A minor accident was reported.
Two-face was here 1:18 p.m. Feb. 7. A report was made from Morgan Hall. An individual was reported for committing fraud.
So far this semester Fire alarms:
2
Traffic stops:
16
Marijuana calls:
9
Suspicious calls:
10
3
Opinion
February 12, 2020
Love serves multiple functions Savannah Workman Washburn Review
To a pessimist, love is not real. To someone who has never loved before, unrealistic expectations arise. We hope for a charming prince, taking us to new heights as we ride off into the sunset. This is what love is not. Love is biological, instinctual, raw and more powerful than hate and war. From a biological standpoint love is a chemical reaction. When we’re turned on, we produce estrogen and testosterone. Leaving us peacefully blissed, dopamine flows to the brain; norepinephrine courses through our veins and leaves us feeling excited or nervous. We are a social animal, and part of the social bonding is just extra affinity for one other
individual or a small group of individuals to which that is really more profoundly manifest; a con- dition otherwise known as love,” according to Robert Elde, CBS Dean’s Office and Neuroscience. Capable of passing our genes to the next generation, we seemingly find it instinctual to find a mate. What men consider attractive are women with large hips, able for childbearing. While women look for built, strong, men that will protect them and their offspring. From an evolutionary perspective, our desires are tied to instinctual needs for survival and reproduction. So, where does the meaning of love tie into all of this? Biology and social interactions – fulfilling our duty to procreate; our longing lies in looking at someone as if they are the only person in the room. According to Merriam-Webster, love is strong affection for another arising out of kinship, devotion, or personal ties. Love is not simply a concrete, reproductive urge; it is a social need. From a young age, we want to be cared for and to be nurtured.
Forming social ties makes us feel like we belong. Love and passion determine our happiness or our fulfillment at the end of a long day. On the flip side, love is transactional. Love is given and received. Love occurs in many forms: to love our neighbor, to love ourselves, to care for another human being that we’ve just met and, to overpower hate. While there are deep connections with love and hate, why does love always persist? Love is transparent while hate hides in the shadows. Hate, like many closed-off minds, is un-moving and uninspiring. Love transforms! Love shapes our culture, the breath in our lungs and makes us better people.
Staff Review Editor in Chief Abbie Barth Arts & Living Editor and Design Editor Cody Dannar Features Editor Erica Faulkinbury Sports Editor Joshua Irsik Online Editor in Chief Joelle Conway Chief Copy Editor Adam White Advertising Managers Lexie Longbine Amanda Zoetmulder Assistant Editor Nicholas Solomon Reporters Matt Self
Anna-Marie spills the tea: Yes, I HATE Valentine’s Day Anna-Marie Lauppe
Kodee Christensen Alyssa Storm
Washburn Review
Kellen Simoncic
Before anyone asks… no, I don’t hate love. I think love is a wonderful and empowering emotion, and I think being in a loving relationship is a beautiful experience. But I absolutely HATE Valentine’s day. I know, hate is a strong word. I also know my opinion is probably an unpopular one, especially around this time of year, but I stand by it. Listen, I don’t hate Valentine’s day because I’m single, or because I hate getting flowers and candy from people I love, and I definitely don’t hate Valentine’s day because I have been scorned one too many times before. The opposite of the above list is true! Let me explain. First, I enjoy being single. Plus, if you happen to know me you know I barely have time to breathe – let alone time for a relationship. Secondly, my love language is receiving gifts – this doesn’t mean I am materialistic. It means I love things like notes, and little things which say “I was thinking of you” like flowers, or jewelry. A holiday when gifts of this nature are part of it should be right up my alley, and yet it’s not. Thirdly, even though I have had serious relationships which hurt me, a woman scorned isn’t exactly my style. When I was in a relationship, I didn’t want to have a traditional Valentine’s day. I wanted something personal, unique and special. This may lead some to ask why Valentine’s day? The holiday of love tends to fall last on my list when it comes to ranking my favorite holidays. I hate Valentine’s day because it seems like it is more heavily commercialized than other holidays. I mean, for example, as soon as Christmas is over the stores go straight to Valentine’s day. This isn’t an unfamiliar phenomenon in America where stores jump from one thing
Photographers Bailey Longstaff Lou Collobert Derek Blanchard WASHBURN REVIEW - Abbie Barth
Spilling tea: Anna-Marie Lauppe is the Editor in Chief of the Kaw Yearbook and a senior psychology major. She wrote this column to share her beliefs with the Washburn community.
to another in an attempt to be ahead of the curve. Valentine’s day feels different to me. This is because most other holidays aren’t fueled by high expectations and possible guilt. What I mean by this is, one doesn’t get people they love Christmas presents because it’s what they should do. A lot of people can’t afford Christmas presents, and shaming them for not being able to get someone a present for Christmas would be an un-Christmasy thing to do. Alternatively, if one’s significant other didn’t get them something for Valentine’s day it would probably be a different experience. I think this is because giving people something on Valentine’s day has been engrained into our society. Let’s think about this though… those of us who went to public grade school probably had a Valentine’s day party where everyone in your class brought us a Valentine. Thus, reinforcing this idea that on Valentine’s day giving people you like something is just what you do, especially for people you love. Personally, I used to give the storebought Valentine’s cards to my best friends, and the ones I liked least to the people I didn’t like as much, like some sort of archaic ranking system. So, in a way, this idea of giving Valentines is as natural as eating jelly beans on Easter and drinking beer on St. Patrick’s Day for those over 21. What kind of weird validation system
is this holiday? I also hate Valentine’s day because I think it is a glorified popularity contest. Think about it, rarely do Valentine’s day festivities happen in one’s private space. Even if it does it isn’t long before someone takes a photo and takes that private expression of love and makes it a public post so people can like and comment on how awesome you or your significant other is. It’s like a public contest of whose significant other loves them more, and shows it in the best way. I think this puts a lot of pressure on whoever is getting the gifts, whether it’s one member of the couple or both. Of course, everyone wants their significant other to like it the most, but is it worth it if they don’t Instagram, Facebook or Snapchat how awesome the gift, and by extension how awesome the person who gave it to them, is? Maybe I have just watched too many people put obscene amounts of time, effort, and stress into this holiday because they think it’s what they must do regardless of it’s what they really want to do. Don’t get me wrong, I am happy for all the couples out there, I really am. I hope Valentine’s day is everything everyone wants it to be for them. Time consuming archaic rituals, popularity contests, commercialization and all… that’s the tea from this Valentine’s Day cynic to WU.
Corrections and clarifications
Have an opinion?
Please, let us know!
Abbie Barth (Editor-in-Chief) abbie.barth@washburn.edu or wureview@gmail.com
Corrections should be emailed to wureview@gmail.com If you have other concerns please call us at (785) 670-2506
1. Come up with a topic you have feelings about 2. Write down your thoughts in a well worked and respectful way 3. Include a picture of yourself and some basic information 4. Email your work to the editor-in-chief for a chance to have your opinion appear in the next issue
Did you find a mistake?
How to submit a letter to the editor Deadline for submissions is every Friday by 5 p.m.
Copy Editors Wesley Tabor Jada Johnson Jason Morrison Hannah Alleyne Diana Martinez-Ponce Freelance Reporters and Photographers John Burns Savannah Workman KAW Editor in Chief Anna-Marie Lauppe Bod Mag Editor in Chief Hailey Mann Bod Mag Assistant Leah Jamison Office Manager Melissa Kern Director of Student Media Regina Cassell
JOIN JOIN OUR OUR TEAM TEAM
We’re Hiring! Washburn Student Media is hiring for all positions! Benefits of working for us · On Campus · Paid positions · Flexible scheduling Apply online washburnreview.org/apply
4
PUZZLES & ENTERTAINMENT
washburnreview.org
The Washburn Review was established in 1885. This section shares snapshots of coverage from the Review’s more than 130-year newspaper.
Discussing the Nonoso auction to be held tonight in the Union following the basketball game. Seated left to right: Miss Laura Greene, faculty advisor; Althea Bromich, president of the oraginazation; and Marilyn Keim. Standing are Mary Nelson and Mary Fuller. Feb. 17, 1956
South Africa press stifled I don’t know about you, but I’m getting
KU code calls WU standards to surface Evidently, the instructors and students
tired of complaining about government
at the University of Kansas’ Business School
wrongdoing in the U.S. of A. So I’ll pick on
thought cheating was getting out of hand.
another part of the world this time.
That is why a new honor code, solely for
South Africa is an interesting place,
the purpose of combating cheating in KU’s
what with its white run government in
Business school, went into effect in Lawrence
a predominantly black population. But
at the beginning of this semester.
racism isn’t the only disenchanting hobby
Lady Blue Lauri Agard puts up a shot over a UMKC defender during Tuesday night’s contest in Lee Arena. Washburn dropped an 80-55 decision to UMKC, who came into the game ranked 10th in this week’s NAIA polls. Feb. 7, 1986
David Shulenburger, associate dean of
of the ruling class there.
the KU business school, said the idea of the
Excerpt from Feb. 18,1981
honor code began last year when the faculty became concerned about the amount of cheating going on. Excerpt from Feb. 3,1989
Band members (from left to right) Marcell Stewart, Manuel Jimenez, Jeremy Albert, Brian Knudtson, Ryan Green and Jayme Malsom practiced at the dress rehearser for Tuesday’s concert. Feb. 16, 1996
5
ARTS & LIVING
February 12, 2020
Evolution of art since the 1920s
Bods on the block By Kodee Christensen What’s one thing you would
Kodee Christensen Washburn Review
change about Washburn?
The world of art is intricate and potentially difficult to understand from an outside perspective. It sometimes helps to look to the past in order to better understand the present. As we enter a new decade, the time is ideal to look back at how our world has changed since the 1920s – specifically in the world of art. “In terms of major influences in the 1920s, you would have had Europe recovering from World War I in North America,” said Kelly Thor, chair and associate professor of art history. “It shattered a lot of optimism of the earlier part of the century. Although artists, philosophers, musicians, poets and playwrights had been questioning a lot of the social conventions, they are now questioning political systems and religious and social structures.” Art seems to have always been born out of society questioning something and constantly looking for new ways to push the boundaries. “You have something called the Armory Show in 1817 that’s largely, critically lambasted,” said Thor. “But then there’s Stieglitz, the one who so-called discovers O’Keeffe and European artists like Cezanne and Picasso. He helped to acquaint the United States with modern works, which is going to be important for why the US takes the lead in art after World War II.” After these post war movements changed art for the foreseeable future, the industry of art museums took on a new role and gave marginalized artists a platform. “Museum professionals figured it out. Museum goers and appreciators figured it out, that there was space that needs to be filled,” said Brett Beatty, assistant director of operations and programs at the Mulvane Art Museum. “The museum has kind of evolved with society to try and fill that space.” While museums and studios have moved forward into thinking about art in its many different mediums, the art market continues to be dominated by several outside factors including fashion trends, interior design and collectors. “The same biases of 1920s still persist to some degree,” said Thor. “If you go to any museum today, you’re still going to find lots more paintings and sculptures than you are photography, let alone film or video or ephemeral in-
Maya Jaradat Freshman Biology
“Nothing. It’s not that bad.” photo courtesy of mulvaneartmuseum.org
Arches to art: The Mulvane Art Museum is at Washburn’s epicenter. The upcoming exhibition, “I Dream a World: Portraits of Black Women Who Changed America,” will open this Friday, Feb. 14, on the second floor.
stallations. What people tend to buy and collect tends to be objects that are more traditional.” The Mulvane Art Museum has worked to keep diverse art in its collection – providing a platform to several artists in different mediums. “We try to give a voice to artists, to cultures and to figures in history,” said Beatty. “We try to bring that to contemporary culture in a relevant way. Museums have become not just places to go see cool stuff, but they have become small cultural meccas where you can engage with art or philosophy or opinions of people that you don’t necessarily run into every day.” Moving into 2020, art is becoming more inclusive and representative of many cultures, voices and ideas. For artists who are seeking ways to find their voice, Thor offers a piece of advice. “When you weigh into an issue, don’t do it blindly,” said Thor. “Do it having done your homework and having thought through the issue from multiple perspectives. Then honor the fact that you get to weigh in now. This is your voice, your perspective, what do you want your audience to take away from this?”
Topeka art studios offer more than exhibits Kodee Christensen Washburn Review
Topeka’s art scene is a thriving and vibrant community with several studios at its epicenter. The studios in Topeka are special, however, because none of them are one dimensional. Some teach classes, some offer art restoration and frame repair – all have a story to tell. Bob and Kim Swain purchased Beauchamp’s fifteen years ago from the original owner, Paul Beauchamp, who had previously been in the area for about thirty-five years. He was 87 years old at the time and continued to work for two more years after the Swains bought his business. “We focus on quality art and service,” said Bob Swain. “People recognize that Paul brought in quality regional art, and we continued that tradition when we bought the studio fifteen years ago. We do a lot of custom framing, art restoration and repair; that contributes to our longevity.” Beauchamp’s has artwork from local and international artists. The current exhibition, called “The Modernist Influence,” includes work by Viktor Vasserely, George Braque,
Richard Simon and more. There are also works from local artists who attend Washburn. “I encourage people to come and see the art even if they’re not buying,” said Bob Swain. “I like to share stories about the art and educate people. We’re open for the Art Walk, which could be a great date night.” Prairie Glass Studio, owned by Kymm Ledbetter, is another great studio to check out. With a focus on freedom and creativity, this studio is perfect for those seeking a way to explore their artistic side. “Part of what makes us unique is we want you to have a good experience here,” said studio instructor, Pamela Aguilar. “We want whatever you make to be personal.” Prairie Glass Studio offers classes and group parties for glass designing and making. “What’s beautiful about our place is we like to get to know the people that come through the door,” said Aguilar. “You’re not just another face; you’re part of our studio. We also have a store dog named ‘Fritz.’ He’s the sweetest boy, and I feel like he’s an integral part of this shop.” A third studio to make note of is
Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop. Leaping Llamas is owned by Alicia VanWalleghem and features a wide range of art from different mediums by local artists in addition to offering both adult and children’s art classes. “Classes are open to everyone, and we offer about one to two a week. Our artists will come in and actually teach others themselves,” said VanWalleghem. “So, the polymer clay class is taught by our polymer clay artist. Then, every Thursday starting in March, we’ll have an open studio for kids where they can come in and create.” VanWalleghem encourages college students to come sign up for a class – promising they will learn something new. “For college students, we have a lot of things that they might not be aware of. I was not aware of everything that we carry even before we opened,” said VanWalleghem. “If they have a creative interest at all, it’s always wise to go in and talk to the people that are working and see what you can learn.” For a list of Topeka art studios, go to Visit Topeka’s Arts and Culture webpage.
Dalton Frantz Senior History
“I’d like to see one app used to manage classes work consistently and stay around for more than one year.”
Maileiah Pope Freshman Art
“I would change the pricing of everything. Meal plans, classes, books, all of it.”
Dillan Hunter Junior Art Education
“A more expansive art department with more mediums.”
Connor Reynolds Junior Theatre
“More progressive leadership at the top level.”
WASHBURN REVIEW - Kodee Christensen
Made in shop: Prairie Glass studios is home to Kansas-inspired art. All the art sold in the studio was made by owner Kymm Ledbetter and her staff.
WASHBURN REVIEW - Kodee Christensen
Custom framing: Beauchamp’s has framing options artistically displayed behind the counter. The studio is open 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays.
Calli Shipley Senior Exercise Science
WASHBURN REVIEW - Kodee Christensen
Kansas themed: Leaping Llamas boasts art from many different mediums, from sculptures and glass work to photography and canvas art. Most of the art inside Leaping Llamas is from Kansas-based artists.
“I would want more people on campus to be more involved, or aware of ways they can get involved.”
6
FEATURES
washburnreview.org
Bods on the block By Sambridhi Regmi
What is your favorite thing to do in Topeka, either on or off campus?
Kaydra Schmidt Junior Nursing
“My favorite thing to do on campus is to go the Rec.”
WASHBURN REVIEW - Matthew L. Self
Topeka rail history: Painted in vibrant colors by Andy Valdivia, the Super Chief Stout mural adorns a large section of the wall in the Iron Rail. Murals like this pay tribute to the long history of our state.
ArtsConnect reveals inner beauty of Topeka Matthew L. Self Washburn Review
Kanaho Murayama Freshman Music
“I am an International student; I like to talk with my American friends on campus which I enjoy a lot.”
Nancy Acharya Sophomore Actuarial Science
“I like to go to the Gage Bowl; they have discount at night, so I go out with my friends after 10 p.m. and play for an hour.”
ArtsConnect brings out the best in Topeka providing a place for local artists to congregate, share ideas, discuss new projects and work collaboratively on current projects that make the capital city more and more beautiful with every passing year. ArtsConnect claims the title of the premier art organization of Topeka and is well acclimated to this designation. The organization hosts grant writing workshops and exhibitions, sponsors art projects in Topeka, participates in the First Friday Artwalk, and creates huge murals around the city for the public to enjoy. “We have painted 13 murals so far in Topeka,” said Sarah Fizell, executive director at ArtsConnect. “The Brown v. Board mural is the largest and highest profiled mural, both locally and nationally. It’s my favorite because it was a project that people thought we couldn’t do. It was exactly what we hoped it would be. It offers visitors a new way to look at the case, and it has a lot of magic that came with it.” ArtsConnect also sponsors the Arty Awards in the fall which highlights the significant depth of artists and art programs in Topeka. The event acts as a fundraiser for the organization’s support so it can continue to strengthen and foster the arts. A Community Arts Award, Literary Arts Award, Performing Arts Award and Visual
Arts Award are a few of the possible achievements that local artists can receive. The organization is in the process of relocating its headquarters to the North Topeka Arts District where it hopes to take a more active role in the community. Their current headquarters, located at a small office in the YWCA building, required the organization to host all events and activities off-site and significantly limited their ability to directly feature and support artists. Their new location is over thirteen times larger than their old site and is already being put to use for popular grant writing workshops. It is planned to open fully in late February and will function as the administrative center for ArtsConnect along with its associated artists in Topeka. ArtsConnect keeps a running tally and catalogue of all the interesting art sites in Topeka in a public art guide. Their website is updated yearly to reflect the ever changing art scene of Topeka. Many of the public art pieces on display at Washburn are included on ArtsConnect’s website along with the Mulvane Art Museum. Some of the other sites that have benefited from ArtsConnect include the Oakland Mural located at the corner of Seward & Lake that was completed in 2013, the Blaisdell Pool Mural in Gage Park that was completed in 2018, and the Meadows Mural located on the northwest corner of the Meadows Elementary School site
that was completed in 2015. The Iron Rail Brewery, which opened just last year in downtown Topeka, has gained advantages from ArtsConnect as well. Huge murals that were created by local artists depict the railroad history of Topeka and add to the stylish and tasteful décor of the restaurant. “We could have gone out and bought stock artwork to put on the walls here, but we decided to allow some local artists to display their talent instead,” said Don King, the brewmaster at the Iron Rail. “Everybody talks about the murals when they come here, and everybody is excited to see them. You can see the stories painted into them, and each relates to one of the flagship beers here. This is really one of a kind, unique art.” ArtsConnect’s impact on the community is not going unnoticed, fortunately. Fizell was pleased to speak about the organization’s plans for participation in an international art project taking place in Europe. “ArtsConnect is trying to make a deal with the state department that would lead to a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina,” said Fizell. “We were noticed because of our work on the Brown v. Board mural. We could be going to Sarajevo which is really exciting.” For more information on ArtsConnect, feel free to visit their website or contact Sarah Fizell at sarah@artsconnecttopeka.org.
‘Jojo Rabbit’ sticks the landing during award season Isabell Anne Coria Freshman Undecided
“I love shopping, so I go to the West Ridge Mall when I have time.”
Riley Davis Junior Nursing
“I like to go out and eat, I enjoy going to The Blues and Skinny’s is fun to go on Thursday night.”
Ojashwi Rana Sophomore Accounting
“I like to swim at the Lee Arena, the water is perfect even in the winter.”
Nicholas Solomon Washburn Review
By all accounts, 2019 saw the release of yet another excellent if unconventional feel-good movie. Last week, I was finally able to catch a showing of “Jojo Rabbit,” from the director of “What We Do in the Shadows” and “Thor: Ragnarok,” Taika Waititi. Critically acclaimed, it has been nominated for a slew of awards, including an Oscar for Best Writing Adapted Screenplay. The film was originally released Nov. 8, 2019 but returned to theatres following a successful award season. I won’t reveal much of the plot, but the basic story is that of the titular Jojo ‘Rabbit’ Beltzer (Roman Griffith Davis), a dorky young German boy who is a member of the Hitler Youth, with his dream to be part of Hitler’s personal guard. ‘Jojo,’ while trying his best to go along with the blind indoctrination of Nazi Germany, is forced to question his beliefs when he encounters a Jewish girl named Elsa (Thomasin McKenzie). Now, it is a common thing for kids to have an imaginary friend, but Jojo’s is different, being Adolf Hitler himself (portrayed by Waititi), who serves as what Jojo proclaims to be his “best friend” in the movie. The film also stars Scarlett Johansson as Jojo’s Mother, as well as Archie Yates, Alfie Allen, Sam Rockwell and Rebel Wilson. While most war films are serious, a recent example being “1917,” “Jojo” opts for a more unconventional route, preferring to be whimsical and relatively light-hearted compared to the usual tone, but still a prudent amount of
photo courtesy of 20th Century Fox
Dramedy done right: Considering its incredibly sensitive subject matter, “Jojo Rabbit” sticks the landing, offering an emotionally resonant experience worth seeing. Pictured are actors Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson and Roman Griffith Davis in their roles of Captain Klezendorf, Rosie Beltzer and Jojo.
seriousness. The idea of a funny war movie isn’t new though, with 2017’s “The Death of Stalin” also inhabiting this genre. However, “Jojo Rabbit” is its own beast, with its portrayal of war through a child’s lens being unique. That willingness to be funny is absolutely one of the films biggest strengths. It never fails to hit the jokes it makes. As stated before, it is not completely comedy. It does highlight some of the atrocities the Nazis committed. The film does a good job of balancing it, which makes it a successful feel-good movie with an effective pathos that resonates with you. The story doesn’t leave much for interpretation being fairly straightforward with its messages, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. One thing that has to be addressed is that of the child actor’s performanc-
es. Being a child actor comes with the stigma of pretty poor performances, but thankfully Roman Griffith Davis and Archie Yates both give excellent performances, Davis in particular plays off of Waititi perfectly. For that matter, all the actors give great performances, blending into “Jojo’s” brand of comedy-drama very well. It is incredibly difficult to gush about this movie without revealing several scenes that make it successful, but it has an emotional buildup that makes it worth writing home about. It manages to be both intelligent, funny and sincerely heartfelt, and I will always be a fan when these are combined and pulled off successfully. Sticking the landing with a movie like this is definitely difficult, but I am glad to see that the movie pulls it off.
February 12, 2020
FEATURES
7
‘Trifles’ a modern take on 20s theme WASHBURN REVIEW - Erica Faulkinbury
Pay attention: Martinez-Haskins says that you really must sit and think and watch or you might miss a key element of this short play.
Erica Faulkinbury Washburn Review
Murder mysteries can shed light on a lot of serious topics, and “Trifles” is no exception. Washburn theatre will be showing the play “Trifles” this weeks. In this more modern adaptation of Susan Gaspell’s early 1920s play, gender roles and the separation between men and women, especially within the household, are highlighted. In this one act show, which is approximately 30 minutes long, a man is found dead, and his wife is in jail as a suspect. Meanwhile, a farmer and his wife are in the house where the murder took place with the sheriff and an attorney looking for evidence. Emma Staats, senior integrated studies major, is directing this show for her capstone project. She has combined the majors of sociology, criminal justice and women’s and gender studies, to create a show that focuses on human rights issues. “I wanted to pick a play that has an important message that wasn’t just a ‘yell in your face’ type of production,” said Staats. “There’s a lot of social justice pieces out there, but it’s hard to find one that really fits into a theatrical setting. So, I really wanted to find one with some subliminal messaging.” Staats said she was angry when she first read the script, but that’s not the emotion she hopes the audience will leave experiencing. Instead, she wants them to examine how isolation can play an element in domestic violence, and how we see that even now in modern day. Staats feels like we still encounter it here in the midwest —
where it’s someone else’s business and everyone is wary to get involved, even if it means they could help prevent abuse. “I want people to leave this production thinking about what they just saw and talking about what they just saw with the people around them, the people they go to the show with, the people they’re sitting next to, because I think it really is a thought provoking play,” said Staats. Angela Woods, junior theater and English major, is the stage manager for this performance. This is her fifth time in a row stage managing a production at Washburn. Woods’ favorite part about the show is small details where, if the audience doesn’t pay close attention, they could miss them. “I know some people drown out in plays,” said Woods. “But this one, you really got to listen. It’s very, very detailed.” Woods mentioned that this is one of the best plays she has ever stage managed as well. “It has a lot of female empowerment, and it really shows what it’s like to be a woman in a certain society,” said Woods. Isabella Martinez-Haskins, senior theater major, plays the role of Mrs. Peters. Martinez-Haskins participates in two to three plays each semester. If she isn’t acting in them, then she’s stage managing. Martinez-Haskins said that she enjoys acting the most, but she got the opportunity to learn about what goes into directing. “I was able to take a directing class last semester, and I found I really really enjoy directing,” said Martinez-Haskins. Martinez-Haskins said her favorite part of this play is an intense moment between her character,
Mrs. Peters, and a character named Mrs. Hale. In the scene, the two are making eye contact and almost yelling at each other which soon leads to Mrs. Hale’s character bursting into tears. Martinez-Haskins ultimately wants the audience to focus on the message at the heart of the story they are telling. “The show was originally written to be early 1900s, but we’ve tried to rewrite it. So, some of the things might sound a bit older, but the important thing to take away from it is the message,” said Martinez-Haskins. “These things still continue to happen even if its not in such a dramatic way.” Staats also feels like the audience should leave thinking about the short but important message that the play tells. “I just want people to walk away thinking about what they saw and thinking critically about how it applies to everyday life, and talking to people about it,” said Staats. “I think a show like this is a fantastic conversation starter.” With that in mind, Staats said that though the show is geared toward any audience and is kid friendly, children may not get much out of it. The theatre is partnering with the YWCA and Nonoso Women’s Honor Society. They will collect donations of socks and underwear (packaged is preferred) to assemble “Fresh Start” kits for survivors of domestic violence. The YWCA will be collecting donations all four days of the play. The play will be at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 13, 14 and 15 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 16. The production is in the Andrew J. and Georgia Neese Gray Theatre on campus.
Thomas helps students succeed in the physics department Sambridhi Regmi and Erica Faulkinbury Washburn Review
Dawson Pankratz Contributor
Brian Thomas has been a physics and astronomy professor at Washburn for 14 years. When Thomas first started his education at the University of Kansas, he originally wanted to work in the engineering field. After taking a few courses in the engineering department, he decided to go into physics. “I decided I was less interested in building things and more interested in understanding the fundamentals of how they work,” said Thomas. “I decided to go into physics because it is more about explaining things.” Thomas found that physics was able to answer some of these questions and was a much better fit for him and his interests. While he was in college, he did some tutoring which led to him finding his passion for teaching. “I did some tutoring, which I found to be a good opportunity to learn more and also help other people,” said Thomas. The science field at Washburn is known for being challenging for many students. To succeed in Thomas’ class, communication is necessary. “I think the biggest thing that makes a difference in my class is to ask for help. Usually, when a student is struggling I can get them to a point where they are okay but I also find that
a lot of them are afraid or unwilling to ask for some reason,” said Thomas. Thomas also said that putting in the right amount of effort is key to success in his class. He expects his students to put the time and necessary work into his classes in order to succeed. “A lot of people in college really underestimate the time it is going to take, and being able to manage time makes a big difference,” said Thomas. Alexander Michael Yelland, senior physics & engineering major, has taken three classes with Thomas. Yelland also knows Thomas through being a summer orientation counselor and through doing research with him. “Dr. Thomas knows how to connect the theory and the mathematics to make it understandable,” said Yelland. “The way he bridges the gap between these gives a perception to see the actual physical world and relating it to how it actually can help you in your physics career is what I like the most about him.” Cody Ratterman, junior computational physics major, has taken theoretical mechanics, introduction to theoretical physics and now he is taking thermodynamics with Thomas. “I plan to take more classes with Dr. Thomas and definitely recommend his classes to other students as well,” said Ratterman. Ratterman likes that Thomas is enthusiastic about the material that he teaches and is good at teaching it and helping the students engage.
courtesy of Dawson Pankratz
Encouragement is number one: Thomas emphasizes the importance of early intervention if a student is struggling. He explained that it is much easier for a student to get back on track if they come to him as soon as they start struggling.
“Dr. Thomas is a really understanding and logical teacher,” said Ratterman. “He really takes time to make sure you know the material and is also willing to help you whenever you need any help.” Much of Thomas’ time outside of teaching is devoted to taking care of his young son. He also spends much of his time biking. Thomas rides his bike to Washburn everyday as long as the weather allows. Thomas spends a lot of his time reading science fiction novels as well. His favorite classic series is the Dune series written by Frank Hurbert. However, his favorite modern author is Jack McDevitt.
8
SPORTS
washburnreview.org
Bods bounce back against the Gorillas Kellen Simoncic Washburn Review
The Washburn Ichabods men’s basketball team hosted the Pittsburg State Gorillas Saturday afternoon, Feb. 8, after a heartbreaking loss on Thursday night. Arriving with a 12-9 (7-5 MIAA) record, the Bods hoped to snap a two-game losing streak. Pitt State had some great momentum following two consecutive victories, though Washburn won the earlier match-up 66-59 in Pittsburg, Kansas, Dec. 5. Washburn planned to play a low tempo game from the jump and dominate on the boards against a small Pitt State team. The Bods sought to get the ball inside to big lefty #42, Jonny Clausing, who had a noteworthy size advantage. Driving Pitt into tough shots through bolstering fantastic defense on perimeter was a priority. During the first half, the Gorillas switched up defenses trying to contain the big man of the Bods and pressing Washburn into a slow start out of the gate. Both teams’ efforts demonstrated that the day’s emphasis was hard-nosed defense. Junior guard Tyler Gieman got the Bods moving with a big three and a lay-up which carried the game to 15-13 Gorillas after the first media timeout. The Ichabods surged into the lead on a 10-0 run with six minutes left in the half
bringing the score to 2320. A big boost came from sophomore guard, Jalen Lewis, and junior forward, Jayce Williams, forcing turnovers and creating big shots for their teammates. Jayce Williams delivered a big slam to energize the Bods on the defensive end, and Jalen Lewis followed with multiple threes. “It felt good out there today; we just competed, played hard down the stretch. We needed this win to go undefeated in our state, and we knew that coming in,” said Lewis. The half ended in a tie 35-35. Jalen Lewis led the Bods having amassed 11 points, nine of which he scored with six minutes left. There were multiple lead changes in the first, setting up an entertaining second half. Jalen Lewis continued his hot shooting, starting the second half with a big three succeeded by a big bucket from Clausing. The Ichabods’ defense determined the tone for the second half with them getting into the passing lanes and having active hands which denied any easy shots. Freshman guard, Conner Deffebaugh, brought the spirit off the bench grabbing multiple rebounds and 10 points. “I was just trying to do the right things. Coach put me out there for a reason. Just gotta play hard at both ends of the court. Coach
WASHBURN REVIEW - Derek Blanchard
Walking on air: Jace Williams flying up to the basket for 2 points. Williams had a total of 5 points in Saturday’s game against Pittsburg State.
tells me to create for others, and that will help my own game,” said Deffebaugh. Pitt State kept it tight hitting some big-time threes and seizing a 61-58 lead with 10 minutes left in the game. The Gorillas went on their own 10-0 run midway through the second positioning them at 66-60 with eight minutes left. Pitt State guard, A.J. Walker, particularly generated some hot shooting and play making. With under a minute remaining, the Bods and Go-
rillas were all tied up at 75. This presented a one and one opportunity for Jonny Clausing as he knocked down the first. “I was very nervous, but confident in my shot,” said Clausing. The Bods got a steal on the other end to win the game, 76-75. Head Coach Brett Ballard, was highly pleased with his team’s effort and fight. “I just thought our guys could have given in a couple times there late when things weren’t going our way; we stayed with it and
showed some toughness. I was very happy and proud of the stops we had late and found a way to win on the offensive end,” said Ballard. Jalen Lewis and Tyler Gieman finished at the forefront for the Bods: Lewis with 14 points and Gieman with 13. The Bods will hit the road next and strive to earn 14-9 for the season against the Northeastern State Riverhawks in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Thursday Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Women’s basketball triumph over Gorillas Lou Collobert Washburn Review
The Ichabods win their fifth straight home game in a massive defensive battle Saturday afternoon, Feb. 8. The women’s team pulled out an 82-75 win over the Pittsburg State Gorillas, bringing the Ichabods to 13-9 in MIAA standings. The Gorillas started strong, scoring the first four points and opening with a lead of 7-14. A Hunter Bentley three-point shot opened the scoring for the Ichabods. Shelbe Piggie put a fire under the Ichabod offense with a three-point shot that started a 15-0 run ending the first quarter with the Ichabods up 26-19. The Ichabods opened their lead up to 11 but the Gorillas rallied late in the second quarter. The Gorillas made an impressive 6-0 run in the last few minutes of the half. The half ended 43-40, Ichabods. Senior guard Alexis McAfee was key – keeping the momentum in the Ichabods favor during the second half.
“We know they are a very offensive minded team. So just coming in knowing that we had to get stops and if they were going to score 40 in another half… we weren’t going to win,” said McAfee. “We had to come in and get a lot of defensive stops to swing the tide.” The Gorillas came out strong in the second half, but Hunter Bentley stole the ball to allow McAfee to score the first points of the half. This led to a 10-2 scoring run but the Gorillas came back with their own 12-5 run to close out the third quarter. The score was 63-57 going into the fourth quarter. “When they’re physical, we just have to play through it. You know, you have to be physical right back,” said Bentley. The fourth quarter was a battle between the Ichabods and the Gorillas. Both teams opened the quarter trading three-point shots. Then Hunter Bentley and Reagan Phelan made the next two three-point shots. The final score came down to Washburn Ichabods 82-75.
Bentley led the Ichabods with a season-high 22 points scored, with Piggie, Phelan and McAfee coming in with 13 points each. “You know, we’ve been fighting this thing for a while and the kids are in a great frame of mind,” said
Head Coach Ron McHenry. “They really did a good job fighting their way back to that.” The Ichabods are on the road next week against Northeastern State and the New Rogers State.
WASHBURN REVIEW - Lou Collobert
Think fast: Senior guard Mia Castaneda makes a break-a-way past the defense. Castaneda scored 9 points with one assist in Saturday’s game against the Pittsburg State Gorillas.
WASHBURN REVIEW - Lou Collobert
Working the ball: Freshman guard Macy Doebele works around the Gorillas defense. Doebele comes to Washburn from the Wildcats of Hanover.